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Team Vice, Team Anne bardagulan sa Family Feud; bakit wala si Karylle?
TULOY na tuloy na ang bakbakan ng mga “It’s Showtime” hosts sa Kapuso game show na “Family Feud” hosted by Dingdong Dantes. Nakapag-taping na last Saturday ang mga taga-“Showtime” sa naturang programa kung saan hinati sila sa dalawang grupo — ang Team Vice Ganda at Team Anne Curtis. Ka-join sa Team Vice sina Jhong Hilario,.....»»
Vice Ganda nakipag-‘dinner date’ sa big bosses ng ABS-CBN, GMA
MATAPOS ang contract signing ng “It’s Showtime” para sa collaboration ng Kapamilya at Kapuso networks, masayang ibinandera ng TV host-comedian na si Vice Ganda ang dinner date kasama ang big bosses ng nasabing media giants. Sa Instagram Stories, makikita ang picture niya na kasama ang ABS-CBN executives na sina Cory Vidanes at Carlo Katigbak, pati.....»»
‘The Eras Tour’ serves up Taylor Swift, larger than life
That Taylor Swift is a great songwriter is no longer in question. What’s up for debate is whether she’s a great concert artist as well. By artist we don’t mean a gifted vocalist. The era of the pop concert as a singing showcase and a straightforward live onstage performance of recorded music ended in 1990 with Madonna’s third concert tour. Called Blond Ambition, the highly theatrical show combined music, spectacle and, most crucially, storytelling with a several-act structure based on themes or narrative arcs, deconstructed songs and elaborate sets to redefine the pop concert as performance art. It has since been the template and gold standard by which all concerts, especially those by female superstars, have been measured. Yes, even Madonna’s own subsequent tours have been assessed through the Ambition lens and, arguably, none of them has quite equaled the one that gave the world the cone bra as an icon of female sexuality and woman power. [caption id="attachment_201371" align="aligncenter" width="1987"] LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 11: Taylor Swift attends "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour" Concert Movie World Premiere at AMC The Grove 14 on October 11, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)[/caption] Feast for the eyes Swift’s The Eras Tour, as seen in the filmed concert currently showing in cinemas worldwide, certainly serves up a feast for the eyes. Most of it is courtesy of the massive stage consisting of a backdrop that stands several stories high, a huge main platform and a long runway that juts well into the audience floor and features its own diamond-shaped mini-stage with a “hyperactive” central hydraulic platform consisting of several mobile blocks that rise to various heights throughout the almost three-hour show. It’s not only one of the biggest stages ever built for a pop concert, but is also probably the biggest LED installation ever assembled in and outside the music world. And it’s never not in use, lighting up the cavernous 70,000-seat SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles (where the movie was filmed over three shows) with eye-popping digital images, pre-recorded videos and live footage from the concert itself. The set is so massive that it makes Swift and her troupe of dancers look like ants. But thanks to the big screens, she literally looks larger than life to the live audience at different points in the show. The film does the opposite, and is the better for it: It brings Swift into the intimate space of the cinema and, thus, closer to the audience. Eras further highlights and celebrates the main thing that has helped the 33-year-old singer-songwriter conquer the pop world, the core attribute that makes Taylor Swift Taylor Swift: relatability. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="201372,201370"] It’s all over her music: a repertoire of mostly slow and mid-tempo ballads that tell about the blush, excitement, joy, ecstasy, frustrations, confusion, sadness, heartbreak, anger and regrets of modern-day romantic relationships, in creative confessional journal prose that listeners of all ages, colors and persuasions find no difficulty accessing and plugging into. It’s all over her wholesome, winsome, non-threatening all-American girl-next-door public persona. This is on fuller display in her performance in Eras than even in her 2020 documentary movie, Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince, which chronicled mostly the period between her Reputation Tour in 2018 and the release in 2019 of her seventh studio album, Lover. Between the many floral, even pastoral, and fluid graphic images onscreen and the tasteful, immaculate set pieces, between the squarely schematic album-era sectioning and the billowy ball gowns and sparkly and sexy but modest bodysuits, between the Cheshire-Cat grin Swift wears through most of the show, even during moments in some heartbreak songs, and her dorky cheerleader energy, The Eras Tour plays like Little Miss Sunshine & The Hearty Princess. It’s all what anyone would expect from the reigning America’s Sweetheart. Thoroughly entertaining It’s a great Taylor Swift show, for sure — thoroughly entertaining and one that sends stans to Swift heaven. But it stops at being a Taylor Swift show with a faithful rendition of her songs when, for something called Eras, it should be giving audiences, both fans and casuals alike, more to chew on than what they already know and are familiar with — a recast, a reinterpretation, a recontextualization of her music and impact. [caption id="attachment_201373" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] US singer-songwriter Taylor Swift performs onstage on the first night of her "Eras Tour" at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on March 31, 2023. (Photo by SUZANNE CORDEIRO / AFP)[/caption] The show is content to be a pop concert about Taylor Swift. Coming almost 20 years into her career, it should’ve reached for the world outside of Taylor Swift, or even just a small part of it: What do Taylor and her songs, for instance, say about the times we are living in? The Eras Tour could have aspired to life and art, or at least something approaching it, and thereby become a truly era-defining experience. The post ‘The Eras Tour’ serves up Taylor Swift, larger than life appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Five things to know about Pope Francis’ Synod
Pope Francis opened the Synod of Bishops' general assembly in Rome on Wednesday, which in a historic first gives women a vote, after a vast global consultation on the future Catholic Church. Here are five things to know about the event: Input from faithful Since 2021, the world's 1.3 billion Catholics have been invited to express their views on the Catholic Church and its challenges to help guide the institution through the 21st century. The "Synod on Synodality" was launched by Francis, 86, as a way to make the Church more inclusive and transparent as it sought input from the faithful around the world. Insights from local dioceses were submitted to episcopal conferences, all contributing to a 50-page working document called the "Instrumentum Laboris" that will be used during the discussions that will take place over the next four weeks. A second session of the assembly is scheduled for October 2024, after which a final document will be given to the pope. He will then decide whether or not to incorporate its findings into a papal document known as an apostolic exhortation. "It's an important forum for reflection for the Church, on its way of being, of moving forward," Italian priest Giacomo Costa, the special secretary of this assembly, told AFP. 21st-century issues The current Synod is the first time the Vatican has waded into so many of today's contentious social issues so openly. The topics to be addressed include the place of LGBT+ people within the Church, whether women should be ordained deacons, and whether married men can serve as priests in regions with insufficient clergy, among others. While there has been consensus on some issues, "there are other issues on which we disagree in substance," said Costa. Contributing to discussions will be theologians, experts, and sociologists, he said. Women and laypeople The Synod is a consultative institution created by Pope Paul VI in 1965 that meets regularly through assemblies. Francis presided over three previous Synods: those of the Family in 2014-2015, Youth in 2018, and Amazonia 2019 -- where he rejected a proposal to open up the priesthood to married men in remote areas of the Amazon. The current Synod marks a major break from the past, however, with Francis' decision to allow women and lay people to vote. "It's a total change from Paul VI: this time, the people of God are being summoned, not representatives," a Vatican observer told AFP. The source said the laymen and women in the assembly will be trying to push past the "ecclesiastic culture" pervading the event. "They won't be satisfied with good words, there will be a demand for procedure, the will to change, efficiency," said the source. Busy calendar For four weeks, the 464 participants, including 365 voting members, will meet every day, divided into 35 working groups divided into five languages (English, Italian, Spanish, French, and Portuguese). Among them are 54 women. The Synod will open and close with a mass presided over by Francis in St. Peter's Basilica and will be marked by periods of prayer. Francis said last month that discussions during the assembly will be behind closed doors to "safeguard" the synodal climate. Dissent Although Francis has warned that there is "no room for ideology in the Synod", there are likely to be differences. Vatican observers will be closely watching the conservative wing of the Church, which is hostile to the Argentine pope. Its members, which include Germany's Cardinal Gerhard Mueller and US Cardinal Raymond Burke, maintain that Francis risks creating confusion and division in the Church, given the Synod's reflections on possible doctrinal changes on thorny issues such as gay rights or celibacy. The post Five things to know about Pope Francis’ Synod appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Valenzuela city lights ‘Tree of Hope’, celebrates 400th founding anniversary
Welcoming two momentous events in one, the City of Valenzuela commenced the “Tree of Hope” lighting ceremony at the Valenzuela City People’s Park over the weekend and was graced by special guests: Jose Mari Chan, Patrick Quiroz, and Itchyworms. Alongside, the ceremony also marked the beginning of a three-month-long celebration of the 400th Founding Anniversary of the city. The “Tree of Hope” lighting ceremony is a yearly tradition of the city, setting the Christmas spirit early for the Valenzuelanos. This traditional lighting of the 50-foot tree, along with several decors and installations, has been long-running since 2004. This year, the lighting ceremony is coupled with another historical commemoration — the kick-off celebration of the 400th founding anniversary of the City of Valenzuela. It is a modern Pinoy Christmas theme bridging the past and future, as a herald to 400 years of history and progress. Mayor WES Gatchalian were joined by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan and CDO Foodsphere Inc. Assistant Vice President Jason Ong in lighting up the Tree of Hope this year. Dedicating the Tree of Hope, the city also welcomed PWD children and teens as the primary beneficiaries for this year. Likewise, students from the city’s state universities the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela and Valenzuela Technological College or VALTECH (formerly named ValPoly) also partake in the event. The historical evening occurred at the heart of the city, the Valenzuela City People’s Park, where many of its residents gathered to witness the gleaming lights from the display. Mayor Gatchalian extended his warm greetings and emphasized the meaning of the Tree of Hope. “Sa ating ‘Tree of Hope’ Lighting ngayong gabi, nawa ito ay hindi lamang maging simbolo ng pag-asa, kung hindi rin magsilbing paalala, na ang liwanag na gumabay sa ating sa nakalipas na apat na raang (400) taon, ay siya ring liwanag na gagabay sa ating hinaharap (For our ‘Tree of Hope’ Lighting tonight, may this event not be a symbol of hope, but also serve as a reminder that the light that has guided over the past 400 years, will be the light that shall guide us in the future)." Joining the event were Vice Mayor Lorie Natividad-Borja, Mayoress Tiffany Gatchalian, City Councilors Ricarr Enriquez, Gerald Galang, Niña Lopez, Sel Sabino-Sy, Mickey Pineda, Atty. Bimbo Dela Cruz, Louie Nolasco, Marlon Alejandrino, SK Federation President, Councilor Goyong Serrano, and Liga ng mga Barangay President, Councilor Jonjon Bartolome. The PWD children and teens performed a meaningful doxology to start the event right. To further make this a night to remember, the local government invited the Christmas icon, Jose Mari Chan, to sing his signature song, “Christmas in Our Hearts” while setting the Tree of Hope and the fireworks alight. A colorful and dashing fountain display provided the finishing touches to the ceremonial night. Following days after the event, multiple attractions in the city such as Valenzuela City Family Park, WES Arena, Fatima Avenue, and Polo Family Park were also set to illuminate their Christmas installations. A post-lighting concert took place at the Valenzuela City Amphitheater wherein special guests, Patrick Quiroz and the band, The Itchyworms, livened up the stadium. Valenzuelanos jammed with some of their iconic songs, concluding the monumental night on a strong note. Getting the ball rolling, the tree-lighting occasion is one of the city’s main festivities for its 400th founding anniversary tribute. The day of the commemoration is 12 November, following Pueblo de Polo’s founding date, 12 November 1623. Back-to-back celebration awaits the city with Polo Fiesta and Casa de Polo inauguration as two of the grand slated events at Valenzuela400 this month. Meanwhile, some of the anticipated huge events for the upcoming months are as follows: Oktoberfest, Polo Fiesta activities, Mass at San Diego de Alcala Church, Casa de Polo blessing and inauguration, Industry Summit, Gawad Dr. Pio Valenzuela Awarding, Cultural Night, Valenzuela’s coffee table book launch, a visit from delegates of Bucheon, South Korea, Food Fiesta, and a Christmas Bazaar. These activities in line were all open for the Pamilyang Valenzuelanos. For the past 400 years, the City of Valenzuela sought several developments and innovations — and it has never stopped evolving. From an agricultural provincial town of Polo to a highly urbanized, industrial, and liveable city, this notable transition led Valenzuela to be recognized as one of the progressive cities in the country. The post Valenzuela city lights ‘Tree of Hope’, celebrates 400th founding anniversary appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
TINGNAN: Kapamilya Stars na nagpatalbugan sa red carpet ng ABS-CBN Ball 2023
NAGTIPON-TIPON ang mga bigatin at naglalakihang mga bituin ng Kapamilya network sa pinakainaabangang ABS-CBN Ball 2023. Naganap ito noong September 30 sa Makati Shangri-La hotel kung saan ipinagdiriwang ang achievements ng Kapamilya stars sa entertainment industry. Ito ang first comeback ng ABS-CBN Ball mula pa noong 2018 at kasunod ng mga naging hadlang na dala.....»»
Linking Fatima-Mediatrix to Russia-Ukraine
(Author’s Note: The Marian messages quoted here are not necessarily authenticated by the Catholic Church.) There was a report years ago from a Mediatrix devotee, who requested anonymity that Our Lady of Fatima healed the aunt of Vladimir Putin and Putin himself. No details were given. The devotee said he visited Putin several times. This report by a Mediatrix devotee links Lipa and Lisbon to Russia and Ukraine. Lipa and Lisbon were linked after Fatima’s Miracle of the Sun was repeated in a Mediatrix shrine in Mindanao on the 100th anniversary of Fatima, precisely to the hour. As a child, Putin was secretly baptized into the Orthodox Church because the Communist Party banned it. The Christian in Putin may be the potential key to ending the war in Ukraine. In 1960, Pope John XXIII unsealed the Third Secret of Fatima in the presence of Cardinal Augustin Bea and his secretary, Fr. Malachi Martin. In an interview at the Art Bell Show USA in 1997, Fr. Martin hinted that, based on the Third Secret, the solution to the world’s ills would come from Ukraine and Russia. The conversion of Russia Our Lady of Fatima revealed that the triumph of her Immaculate Heart would come from the conversion of Russia. St. Pope John Paul II soon consecrated Russia to her Immaculate Heart. Vatican Mariologists attributed the consecration to the ensuing momentary era of world peace, a “Marian intervention.” In 1994, Mikhail Gorbachev visited St. Pope John Paul II, the first visit in history by the Kremlin to the Papacy. Gorbachev instituted Perestroika (reconciliation) and Glasnost (openness), leading to the opening of Christian churches inside Russia. Immediately, Ukraine announced the legalization of the Ukrainian Church (about 70 percent Orthodox), which was brutally disbanded by Joseph Stalin in 1946. The Berlin Wall then crumbled, leading to the reunification of Germany and the end of the Cold War. Gorbachev’s reforms led to the fall of the USSR. Among its former satellites were Ukraine and Belarus, now arch-enemies in the war in Ukraine. Marian’s intimacy with Ukraine On 22 January 2022, during a Ukrainian Orthodox celebration in an unspecified town, a white dove descended on top of the altar painting of the Baptism of Jesus, a warning perhaps of a Russian invasion, which happened a few days later. Ukraine was the first nation to be consecrated to the Blessed Virgin in 1037. In 1914, two weeks before World War I, the Virgin told 22 field workers near the Church of the Holy Trinity in the village of Hrushiv: “There will be a war. Russia will become a godless country. As a nation, Ukraine will suffer terribly for eighty years — and will have to live through the world wars, but it will be free afterwards.” The prophecy was fulfilled. In 1987, a year after the Chernobyl tragedy, in the same church in Hrushiv, the Virgin told 12-year-old visionary Marina Kizyn: “Do not forget those who have died. Chernobyl is a reminder and a sign that …. THROUGH THE BLOOD OF (UKRAINIAN) MARTYRS WILL COME THE CONVERSION OF RUSSIA.” A bright light filled the church where the Virgin appeared. There were daily apparitions until 15 August, the Feast of the Assumption, which attracted about 500,000 people in total. Many witnessed the apparitions. Hrushiv became an instant pilgrim center. The Virgin of Hrushiv became Our Lady of Ukraine. Our Lady appeared to KGB agents trying to manage the huge crowds. At that time, churches were closed, and Christianity was banned. Priests from the “underground Church” emerged from hiding and defied the KGB, saying ten Holy Masses daily outside the church. The KGB did not touch them. Hrushiv was saved from a deadly cholera epidemic in 1855, with not a single death in the village, after the people offered Mass at a spring that suddenly came out of the ground. The Virgin demonstrated her love for the Ukrainian people when she said: “I have come on purpose to thank the Ukrainian people because you have suffered the most for the Church of Christ in the last 70 years. I have come to comfort you and tell you that your suffering will soon end. Ukraine will become an independent state.” (Source: oclarim.com.mo, 6 July 2018) Does Putin have a role in the “conversion” of Russia and the end of the war in Ukraine? Will peace be attained through the blood of Ukrainians as martyrs? These remain to be seen. eastwindreplyctr@gmail.com The post Linking Fatima-Mediatrix to Russia-Ukraine appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Hercules’ actor Kevin Sorbo thinks Timothée Chalamet is killing ‘real masculinity’
American actor and producer Kevin Sorbo, who starred as the Greek demigod Hercules in the 1990s show Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, is angry about allegedly being “canceled” by Hollywood for his conservative views and Christian beliefs. In a controversial essay titled “Make Hollywood Manly Again” published on Fox News, the actor griped about how Hollywood and the media are supposedly putting traditional male roles in a negative light. “Fathers, in particular, have become the butt of every woke Hollywood jab, the bumbling, useless idiots who contribute nothing to their families or communities, but sacrifice themselves as objects of ridicule,” Sorbo wrote. Lamenting the rise of female-centric “girl boss” films in recent years, Sorbo complained that men are now portrayed as the “impotent sitcom father” and the “brutish he-man who only abuses his strength and makes a mockery of masculinity.” [caption id="attachment_189784" align="aligncenter" width="318"] Timothée Chalamet[/caption] The right-wing actor reserved particular venom for actors Timothée Chalamet and Billy Porter for their androgynous fashion sense. “Society today seriously misunderstands masculinity. On the one hand, we love to normalize androgynous, Billy Porter-type men who sport skirts and poofy dresses,” Sorbo wrote. As for Chalamet: “Let’s just say your grandfather wouldn’t have been caught dead dressed like Chalamet.” Chalamet has been acclaimed for redefining modern men’s fashion and style. His eclectic and atypical roles in films have been reflected in his unique and bold personal style on the red carpet. [caption id="attachment_189785" align="aligncenter" width="316"] Billy Porter[/caption] The Call Me By Your Name superstar was a head-turner at the premiere of his 2018 film Beautiful Boy with a statement tuxedo by Alexander McQueen in a graphic floral motif that gave a fresher and more youthful look to the standard male formal get-up. In 2022, the Oscar-nominated actor once again dominated fashion headlines when he wore a sleeveless and backless Haider Ackermann custom red halter-neck top at his red-carpet appearance for the romantic horror film Bones and All. Porter, a Tony, Grammy and Emmy award-winning actor, is likewise regarded as a fashion icon for flaunting genderless clothing in his public appearances. Exhibit A was his appearance at the 91st Academy Awards, where he wore a velvet tuxedo jacket paired with a ball gown. The post ‘Hercules’ actor Kevin Sorbo thinks Timothée Chalamet is killing ‘real masculinity’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
2015 Vatican decree on Mediatrix not binding!
The claims of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines and the Vatican that Pope Pius XII had officially decreed that the Mediatrix apparitions were of “no supernatural character or origin” is not exactly true. If it is proven not true, the Papal “decree” is not binding and the faithful are allowed not to follow the decree, based on Canon Law. The CBCP released Circular 23-04 dated 14 July 2023 — quoting the official Dicastery document Protocol 226/1949 — stating that “in 1951, the Dicastery, the Supreme Sacred Congregation of the Holy See, after due examination of the documents made available, declared the alleged apparitions in Lipa (of Our Lady Mediatrix of All Grace) to have no supernatural character or origin, a decision directly approved by Pope Pius XII.” There has been no document in the Acta Apostolicae Sedis, the official Vatican publication, that said that Pope Pius XII had indeed approved the decree. It was never formalized into an official “promulgation,” which is a requirement of Canon Law, to be binding. In other words, the Dicastery Decree is official, but not the Papal Decree. Protocol 226/1949, authored by the Dicastery, did not clarify that the Pope Pius XII Decree had not yet been official and binding in a formal promulgation. Then apostolic administrator Bishop Rufino Santos said, in his decree of 12 April 1951, that he was still awaiting the Vatican decision regarding Lipa, contradicting Protocol 226/1949 that said a decision had been made. I, therefore, challenge the CBCP and the current Dicastery to produce documentary evidence that there was indeed an existing official Papal Decree of Pope Pius XII in fulfillment of the Canon Law ruling. The decree of Pope Pius XII is important because it was the basis for the recent order of Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera to suppress Mediatrix activities in all churches in Lipa. “Vatican directs CBCP to cease 75th celebration of Lipa apparition” (CNN Philippines 28 July 2023). The CNN article reported that the Vatican reaffirmed its 1951 decree, precisely the questionable Pope Pius XII decree. Only the Pope has the authority to confirm and declare a Marian apparition. If the 1951 Pope Pius decree is now in question, so also are all the recent bans and suppressions of Mediatrix activities in Lipa. The added sentence reads, “The Confraternity of the Mediatrix of All Grace is a movement with dozens of chapters nationwide.” Confraternity members report that a Filipino priest very close to Pope Francis approached him to forward the sentiments of the Mediatrix devotees. He said the Pope simply passed the ball to the Dicastery. And since the Dicastery is vehemently anti-Mediatrix, it was a dead end, a failed attempt. Many Confraternity members were disappointed. The Confraternity has a nationwide presence, although its membership keeps moving dynamically forward and backward. There are chapters whose memberships are strong and keep growing, but there are some whose memberships have decreased. The dynamic chapters include Cebu, Iloilo, Guimaras, Kidapawan, Davao City, General Trias, and Jaro, to name a few. However, the Confraternity is different from the devotees. Confraternity members are essentially professionals, educated and articulate. They are well organized and subject to meetings and activities. The ordinary Mediatrix devotees are peasants, farmers, and fishermen, and are simply humble churchgoers, not so organized. But there are so many who have a strong faith and devotion to Mama Mary in their hearts. They do not even know the issues in the conflict. Their devotion is based on their hearts, not their minds. When the entire Philippine Church was held in submission by the Vatican under threat of excommunication or alienation, it was the laity that took up the cudgels, out of reach of the clutches of the Vatican and the CBCP. The Confraternity distributed hundreds of life-size Mediatrix statues nationwide. They laid the infrastructure for devotion to spread like wildfire to the sea of marginal devotees. It is estimated from Confraternity reports that Mediatrix devotees are broadly around four million nationwide. Herein lies the victory of the Virgin over the Vatican. Despite 70 long years of suppression and repression since the 1951 apparitions to this very day, Mediatrix devotion proliferates. The Vatican and the CBCP have succeeded in silencing Filipino nuns, priests, bishops, and cardinals but they are helpless against the true Marians among the masses. Even the suppressed Church prelates still believe in the silence of their hearts in the Mediatrix. Suppression has ironically strengthened the Filipino Marians. The Confraternity says it has devised a simple strategy. They will suffer and ignore the suppression without opposition, and discern the will of the Lord and Our Lady, and focus on divine messages, teachings, and pray, pray, pray, especially for the Pope, the Vatican and the CBCP. *** eastwindreplyctr@gmail.com The post 2015 Vatican decree on Mediatrix not binding! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Family killed by Nazis to be beatified in Catholic first
A Polish couple and their seven children, killed by Nazis during World War II for hiding Jews, will be beatified Sunday, the first time an entire family is given one of Catholicism's highest honors. The ceremony in the family's hometown of Markowa in south-east Poland will be attended by over 30,000 people, including 80 bishops, 1,000 priests, the country's chief rabbi, and an Israeli delegation. It was there, on 24 March 1944, that German police acting on a tip-off shot dead Jozef Ulma and his wife Wiktoria, who was seven months pregnant and partially gave birth during the execution. Their children, Stanislawa, Barbara, Wladyslav, Franciszek, Antoni, and Maria, aged between two and eight, were killed too, along with the eight Jews the family had been hiding in the attic. The eight -- Shaul Goldmann and his five children, including his daughter Lea Didner and her five-year-old daughter, and Golda Gruenfeld -- were also shot before the family farmhouse was looted and set on fire. The police fired up into the attic from the floor below, "and the blood of the victims began to drip from the ceiling... onto a photograph of two Jewish women lying on a table below", Vatican News said. That photograph "has been preserved as a 'relic'", it said. Baptism of blood The massacre followed "a story of love and friendship", said Italian journalist Manuela Tulli, who has written a book on the family along with Polish historian and priest Pawel Rytel-Andrianik. "When the Jews asked for help, they opened their doors. They lived together for a year and a half, cooking and eating together", Tulli told AFP. Jozef Ulma was a keen photographer as well as a farmer, and photographs he took that survived reveal the family's life through simple, everyday scenes. "We see the children running barefoot in the grass, doing their homework, the mother hanging out the washing," Tulli said. The families were denounced by a Polish policeman. After they were executed, 24 Jews in Markowa were murdered by their Polish neighbors. The Ulma family will be the first ever to be beatified, a key step on a possible path to sainthood in the Catholic Church. And in a rare move, the Ulmas' newborn seventh child will also earn the title of "blessed". The child is eligible for beatification through the concept of "baptism of blood", having been born "at the time of the mother's martyrdom", according to the Vatican's department for saints. Usually, people need to have performed a miracle to be eligible for beatification, but martyrs are exempt. Jozef and Wiktoria Ulma were recognized by Israel in 1995 as members of the "Righteous among the Nations", an honor for non-Jews who tried to save Jews from Nazi extermination. The family also has a museum dedicated to it in Markowa and in 2018 Poland decreed 24 March -- the date of the massacre -- a day of remembrance for Poles who rescued Jews during the German occupation. The post Family killed by Nazis to be beatified in Catholic first appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NTF-ELCAC gives Church a seat
The Catholic Church will play a more significant role in the anti-insurgency effort through a recalibrated National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, or NTF-ELCAC, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said yesterday. The task force will now have the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs as a member. “We welcome the CBCP through its Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs to the NTF-ELCAC Executive Committee and we look forward to working with them in pursuing peace and development in all parts of the country, especially in conflict-affected areas,” Año said. The task force indicated an openness to suggestions from the Church in adopting “moral and ethical approaches in addressing the communist insurgency,” as cited by CBCP president and Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David in a recent statement. “We are opening the door of NTF-ELCAC to the Church because it has an important role to play in ending violence and terrorism in the country,” Año said. “For more than 50 years, we have lived with the scourge of the communist armed conflict. With peace now in sight, the Church has an important role to play in ensuring peace and development in the long term,” he added. With the CBCP in the NTF-ELCAC, Año believes that concerns raised by the Church or by cause-oriented groups supported by them could be immediately addressed. “Because of this development, the Church will have more opportunity to relay its concerns, since its mandate is to act as a liaison of the CBCP to the government,” he said, citing the attendance of Fr. Jerome Secillano at the NTF-ELCAC executive committee meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Malacañang on Friday. Año reiterated that the task force’s main mandate is to formulate “whole-of-nation” policies to end armed conflict in the country. “CBCP’s membership in the task force ensures a whole-of-nation’s participation because the religious sector is an important component of the nation,” he said. Intervention in influenced areas Año sees the CBCP making significant contributions to the development of areas previously under the influence of the New People’s Army, as well as facilitating social inclusivity in the pursuit of peace. “Given that we are now on the road to total victory, it’s necessary that we recalibrate the way we do things and the entry of the CBCP to the NTF-ELCAC is one of the changes we have implemented under the Marcos administration,” he said. More rebels rejoin society NTF-ELCAC also expressed optimism the government can sustain its peace-building effort to encourage more rebels to reintegrate into mainstream society. At a forum on Saturday, NTF-ELCAC director Alexander Umpar said that in 2023, a total of 959 villages cleared of the insurgency were included in the Barangay Development Program or BDP, an initiative that aims to bring sustainable development programs to conflict-prone and conflict-affected communities. Under the BDP, each village recipient receives a package of programs, activities, and projects worth a maximum of P20 million. BDP beneficiaries in 2021 and 2022 numbered 822 and 1,406, respectively, he said. Umpar said the NTF-ELCAC is confident that by 2028, it would have attained its goal of achieving lasting peace and development in areas that are vulnerable to armed conflict. “‘By 2028, it is about sustaining the momentum of NTF-ELCAC gains with regard to the dismantling of guerrilla fronts, the reintegration of former rebels, and most of all, building resiliency for our communities under the ambit of good governance toward unity, peace and development,” he said. The government, he said, has dismantled 69 of 89 guerrilla fronts since the creation of the task force in 2018. One of the 20 remaining guerrilla fronts, he said, is active while 19 others had weakened. “‘When we say strategic victory, this (because) of the 19 weakened guerrilla fronts and only one is left to be confronted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he said. “There are still concerns about the armed groups but they are no longer able to initiate an armed struggle or to topple our government. So, that’s the strategic victory,” Umpar said. On the other hand, NTF-ELCAC director Jose Descallar urged rebels to give up and join the government in its goal of transforming the country into a “new Philippines.” He said the military could shift its focus to “external threats,” once the government is able to address the local insurgency. Meanwhile, Director Emmanuel Santos of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity said the conduct of localized peace engagements has been proven to be the “most effective” approach in addressing the communist insurgency. “We’re localizing the engagement so we will be closer to the people to make them feel that the government is really here,” Santos said. He added, however, that there should be “clear directions” to ensure the full reintegration of FRs into mainstream society. The post NTF-ELCAC gives Church a seat appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bring public health services closer
“Health is the greatest of human blessings,” according to Hippocrates, father of Modern Medicine. That is why we continue to make significant strides in improving our health system. The latest of which is the signing into law of the Regional Specialty Centers Act. As the principal sponsor and one of the authors of this measure, I am grateful to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., for approving and prioritizing this legislation which will help bring specialized medical care closer to Filipinos in various regions, and hopefully to the most vulnerable groups in grassroots communities. As we aim to make public health more accessible, we must continue such efforts to ensure all Filipinos get the healthcare they deserve. In line with this, the Malasakit Centers we initiated in 2018 have already provided financial medical assistance to more than seven million patients so far. There are 158 Malasakit centers established all over the country through the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which I principally authored and sponsored in the Senate. I have also continuously pushed for the establishment of Super Health Centers, which are medium versions of a polyclinic and improved versions of the rural health unit, to make healthcare more accessible to Filipinos even in remote areas. These centers, funded with the help of my fellow legislators and primarily implemented by the Department of Health, shall provide primary health care services in communities that also include consultation, diagnosis, and early detection of diseases. As chair of the Senate Health Committee, I must emphasize the need to bring public health services closer to the people who need them the most. The enactment of the Regional Specialty Centers Act, along with the continuing operations of Malasakit Centers and the establishment of more Super Health Centers nationwide will hopefully bridge this gap and further promote the health and well-being of Filipinos no matter where they are in the country. As a legislator and public servant, I will continue to help improve public service delivery at the grassroots to the best of my capacity so that no Filipino is neglected when it comes to availing government services they need. That is why aside from the health initiatives mentioned above, I also continue to visit communities to deliver assistance, listen to their concerns, and provide solutions to their daily struggles. We were in Laguna on August 25 to inspect the Siniloan Sports Complex which was funded through our efforts as part of our goal as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports to promote grassroots sports development and divert our youth from harmful vices like illegal drugs. We then inspected the Isolation Facility of the Infirmary Hospital which we supported during the Duterte administration. We also led the distribution of aid to 500 impoverished residents of Siniloan together with Vice Governor Karen Agapay, Mayor Patrick Go, Vice Mayor Carla Valderrama, and other local officials. Last weekend, I also joined fellow officials and basketball enthusiasts alike in supporting Gilas Pilipinas during the 2023 FIBA World Cup. I commend everyone who took part in ensuring the successful hosting of the FIBA World Cup here in the Philippines. We were invited as a guest speaker on 24 August at the Gender and Development Activity organized by the Provincial Council of Occidental Mindoro. We support these kinds of discussions that aim to promote equal and gender-sensitive leadership. On 23 August, I received the prestigious Apostle Arsenio Ferriol Award of Excellence for Public Service and Governance. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch) for this very prestigious recognition. With or without an award, I will continue my mission to serve fellow Filipinos, knowing very well that service to the people is service to God. Aside from the awarding ceremony, I also joined them yesterday for their 50th Golden Church Anniversary celebration in New Clark City, Tarlac. I also visited Navotas City on 22 August, together with Mayor John Rey Tiangco and Vice Mayor Tito Sanchez to help 1,000 senior citizens, PWDs, and indigents. We also provided additional support to 1,328 recovering fire victims who were given aid from the National Housing Authority to buy housing materials through their Emergency Housing Assistance Program that we initiated before and continue to support its implementation now. We were also instrumental in the construction of nine public school buildings in Navotas City, some of which we were able to inspect during our visit. My office also continues to assist Filipinos affected by calamities. Among those assisted were typhoon victims in various towns in Cagayan — 500 in Gonzaga; 500 residents in Aparri; 500 in Allacapan; 500 in Pamplona; 500 in Ballesteros; and 500 more in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. More support was also provided for 35 indigents from different towns of Cotabato Province plus 110 sectoral members in Libungan town; three fire victims of Brgy. Peñaplata in Samal Island; 1,000 residents of Sibalom and almost 250 in Tobias Fornier in Antique; 1,000 beneficiaries in Polomolok, South Cotabato; 66 residents of Malolos Bulacan; 31 residents of General Tinio and 140 more in Gapan, Nueva Ecija. We also extended livelihood support to 14 indigents in Cauayan, Negros Occidental; three farmers in San Lorenzo, Guimaras; and 52 residents of Brgy. Tisa, Cebu City who were previously victims of a fire incident. They were also provided aid through DTI’s Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program, which I pushed for before and continue to support now to boost the livelihood of those affected by various crises. Furthermore, I am also thankful to the President for signing the following into law: Republic Act No. 11961, which I co-authored, amending the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, and mandates the creation of a Philippine Registry of Heritage; RA 11958, which I co-authored, that amends RA 6948 to rationalize the disability pension provided to military veterans; and the One Town, One Product Philippines Program, which I authored and co-sponsored, to support the growth of the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises. While we have accomplished a lot in the past few days in helping those in need and pushing for policies that would uplift the lives of fellow Filipinos, our work must not stop as long as there are more of our kababayans who rely on us for support. As public servants, let us continue to bring the government and its services closer to the people while working together so that no one is left behind toward recovery and progress. The post Bring public health services closer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hawaii fire death toll nears 100, and anger grows
The death toll in Hawaii from the deadliest US wildfire in more than a century ticked towards 100 Sunday, fueling criticism that government inaction contributed to the heavy loss of life. At least 96 people were confirmed to have died as of Sunday night, but officials warned the figure was likely to rise as recovery crews with cadaver dogs work their way through hundreds of homes and burned-out vehicles in Lahaina. The historic coastal town on the island of Maui was almost destroyed by the fast-moving inferno early Wednesday morning, with survivors saying there had been no warnings. When asked Sunday why none of the island's sirens had been activated, Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono said she would wait for the results of an investigation announced by the state's attorney general. "I'm not going to make any excuses for this tragedy," Hirono, a Democrat, told CNN's "State of the Union." "We are really focused, as far as I'm concerned, on the need for rescue, and, sadly, the location of more bodies." More than 2,200 buildings were damaged or destroyed as the fire tore through Lahaina, according to official estimates, wreaking $5.5 billion in damage and leaving thousands homeless. "The remains we're finding are from a fire that melted metal," said Maui Police Chief John Pelletier. "When we pick up the remains... they fall apart." That was making identification difficult, he added, appealing for those with missing relatives to give DNA samples that might speed up the process. Pelletier said cadaver dogs still had a vast area to search in the hunt for what could still be hundreds of people who are unaccounted for. "We're going as fast as we can. But just so you know, three percent -- that's what's been searched with the dogs," he said. Questions over alert system The wildfire is the deadliest in the United States since 1918, when 453 people died in Minnesota and Wisconsin, according to nonprofit research group the National Fire Protection Association. The death toll surpassed 2018's Camp Fire in California, which virtually wiped the small town of Paradise off the map and killed 86 people. Questions are being asked about how prepared authorities were for the catastrophe, despite the islands' exposure to natural hazards such as tsunamis, earthquakes and violent storms. In its emergency management plan last year, the State of Hawaii described the risk wildfires posed to people as being "low." Yet the layers of warning that are intended to buffer a citizenry if disaster strikes appear not to have operated. Maui suffered numerous power outages during the crisis, preventing many residents from receiving emergency alerts on their cell phones. No emergency sirens sounded and many Lahaina residents spoke of learning about the blaze from neighbors running down the street or seeing it for themselves. "The mountain behind us caught on fire and nobody told us jack," resident Vilma Reed, 63, told AFP. "You know when we found that there was a fire? When it was across the street from us." Reed, whose house was destroyed by the blaze, said she was dependent on handouts and the kindness of strangers, and was sleeping in a car with her daughter, grandson and two cats. The New York Times reported Sunday that firefighters sent to tackle the flames found some hydrants had run dry. "There was just no water in the hydrants," the paper quoted firefighter Keahi Ho as saying. Roadblocks The congregation of Grace Baptist Church, which was leveled in the blaze, gathered Sunday in a coffee shop in Kahului for two hours of solace. Pastor Arza Brown led the service in his sandals, the only shoes that survived the blaze that destroyed his house. But the trappings of ministry were far from his mind as he comforted fellow evacuees. "That's one thing about getting together today -- just to be with each other and encourage each other," he said. For some survivors, the difficult days after the tragedy were being worsened by what they see as official intransigence, with roadblocks preventing them from getting back to their homes. Maui police said the public would not be allowed into Lahaina while safety assessments and searches were ongoing -- even some of those who could prove they lived there. Maui's fires follow other extreme weather events in North America this summer, with record-breaking wildfires still burning across Canada and a major heat wave baking the US southwest. Europe and parts of Asia have also endured soaring temperatures, with major fires and floods wreaking havoc. Scientists say human-caused global warming is exacerbating natural hazards, making them both more likely and more deadly. The post Hawaii fire death toll nears 100, and anger grows appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
William Friedkin, incendiary director of ‘The Exorcist’
US director William Friedkin, who died Monday, will forever be remembered for his Oscar-winning "The Exorcist" in 1973, one of the most controversial horror films of all time that still chills new generations of moviegoers. The taboo-breaking scene of a 12-year-old girl believed to be possessed by the devil, foul-mouthed and feverishly masturbating with a crucifix on her bed, provoked frenzy in audiences and sparked a global debate about the occult in the Catholic Church. "It was shocking," wrote Rolling Stone in 2018, recalling the first reactions. It "had people lining up at the entrances of movie theatres while the exits were soppy with puke from the previous showing." Remarkably for a horror film, it was nominated for 10 Oscars and took home two. Pact with the devil Friedkin, who passed away in Los Angeles on Monday at the aged of 87, after suffering health issues in recent years, first hit the pinnacle in Hollywood a few years before "The Exorcist" -- with his stomping, stylish 1971 thriller "The French Connection." Starring Gene Hackman as a cop in gritty, corrupt New York City, the film won five Oscars including Best Director and Best Picture. It was a pearl of the "New Hollywood" wave of socially and politically charged filmmaking associated with emerging directors such as Robert Altman, Francis Ford Coppola, and Martin Scorsese. Friedkin was asked to direct "The Exorcist" -- based on a novel inspired by a reported case of possession of a 14-year-old boy -- after other star directors including Stanley Kubrick had turned it down. "I thought it was a film about the mystery of faith... but I didn't set out to make a horror film," Friedkin was quoted saying in The Hollywood Reporter in 2015. "But by now, I have accepted that it is." His film was followed by four sequels, based on the same novel but without Friedkin's participation, together grossing more than $600 million worldwide. A television series began in 2016. Real power Friedkin was born in Chicago in 1935. His mother was a nurse and his father held several jobs, from merchant seaman and semi-professional softball player to discount-clothes salesman. He singled out viewing in his twenties of Orson Welles' "Citizen Kane" (1941) as having a radical impact. "It changed my life," he said in a 2014 interview published on the website of respected US critic, Roger Ebert. "It made me understand that film was an art form and a unique way of storytelling that I had never considered". Friedkin started working in television as a runner and then directed TV shows before making his own documentary in 1962, "The People vs Paul Crimp", about a real-life death row prisoner. The film would contribute to Crimp's death sentence being commuted, convincing Friedkin of "the power of cinema", he told AFP in an interview in 2017. In 1967 he made his first feature, "Good Times", a musical starring the popular pop duo Sonny and Cher. Eclipse from the A-List After his heyday in the 1970s, came a spectacular fall from the Hollywood A-List. It was his ambitious "Sorcerer" (1977), that would prove Friedkin's undoing. After a difficult shoot that went wildly over budget to cost $22 million, the film bombed at the US box office, grossing just under $6 million. It was also eclipsed by the first installment of George Lucas's "Star Wars", released at the same time. Amongst his other flops from a total of about 20 features was "Cruising" (1980) with Al Pacino as an undercover cop hunting down a serial killer in New York's S&M scene. But "Killer Joe" in 2011, starring Matthew McConaughey as a man plotting to kill his own mother, brought renewed critical praise. In 2018, decades after his most famous hit, Friedkin revisited the themes of "The Exorcist" with the documentary "The Devil and Father Amorth", about a priest performing an exorcism in Italy. "The life of a filmmaker is one film to another," Friedkin told the LA Times in 1989 about how he picked himself up after his career had taken a tumble. "There's a great reward when you connect with the public and people are lining up around the block to see your film. But the real joy is making the film." Friedkin was married four times, the first time to one of France's top actresses, Jeanne Moreau. The post William Friedkin, incendiary director of ‘The Exorcist’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Give LPE a chance
Newly appointed Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro made a deeply rooted statement about the peace talks between the Philippine government and communist rebels that have dragged on for several decades, with intermittent periods of very little progress and setbacks. Without mincing words, Teodoro said he had always been against entering into peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army. This is equally consistent with his position that communist rebels are welcome to return to the government fold given an existing program that offers “to help them, rehabilitate them and give them a new life.” Why is this so? For Teodoro, why engage in peace talks when there is Task Force Balik-Loob — a central coordinating body created by Administrative Order No. 10 dated 3 April 2018 that supervises the government’s reintegration efforts for members of the CPP-NPA-NDF, including their immediate family members. The task force is composed of representatives from the DND, DILG, OPAPRU, and other partner government agencies. I couldn’t agree with the Defense Secretary more. In a recent television interview, he said he was never convinced that the Philippine insurgency — the longest-running in Asia — was ideological. His explanation was clear. “This is all about taking power or whatever. The reason, even in other countries, the sole authority of the Communist Party in other countries is a dictatorship in itself. They call it the dictatorship of the proletariat.” We have in front of us a duplicity of the communist agenda — a pro-people advocacy on one hand, and the overthrow of the government on the other. The history of the peace negotiations between the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front, CPP’s political wing, is long and complex spanning several decades. When Corazon C. Aquino assumed the presidency after the People Power Revolution in 1986, peace talks were initiated and detained top communist leaders, including Jose Maria Sison and Bernabe Buscayno, were released. Since then, there have been several attempts at peace negotiations between the government and the Reds, facilitated by third-party mediators, including the Catholic Church, various civil society groups, and foreign governments. The most recent attempt at peace talks was in 2016 during the first year in office of then-President Rodrigo Duterte. It, however, broke down in 2017 after both sides accused the other of violating the ceasefire agreement. Duterte, exasperated by the insincerity, formally terminated the peace negotiations with the CPP-NPA in 2018 through Proclamation 360. Despite this, there have been sporadic calls for the resumption of the peace talks, particularly from civil society groups and the international community. More than 40 rounds of peace talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF since 1986 proved futile, marred by spoilers who used violence to attack the peace process. Or were these attempts aimed at forcing their way into negotiations, and alter a process so that their demands would be included in a settlement? Opinions vary, often dependent on political, social, and ideological perspectives. While some people argue that pursuing peace talks is the best way to end the decades-long armed insurgency, others are skeptical about the prospects as evidenced by the little willingness to negotiate in good faith, human rights violations, coupled with unreasonable and unrealistic demands. Peace is a priority for more than 110 million Filipinos who hope to see an end to the decades-long insurgency in the country. If top-level negotiated settlements fail, there is the Localized Peace Engagement or LPE — a viable alternative solution to the armed conflict. Introduced by the national government in 2017 after the breakdown of the peace negotiations with the Reds, let us give this community-based approach to peacebuilding a chance. After all, who wouldn’t want to address the underlying social, economic, and political grievances that fuel armed conflicts? The post Give LPE a chance appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘We want to be free’: Filipinos demand right to divorce
Philippine mother-of-three Stella Sibonga is desperate to end a marriage she never wanted. But divorce in the Catholic-majority country is illegal, and a court annulment takes years. The Philippines is the only place outside the Vatican where divorce is outlawed, with the Catholic Church -- which holds great influence on Philippine society -- opposing the practice as against its teachings. Those in favor of legalizing divorce say the ban makes it difficult to escape violent or otherwise abusive spouses, or even for couples to amicably cut ties. People wanting to end their marriage can ask a court for an annulment or a declaration that the nuptials were invalid from the start, but the government can appeal against those decisions. The legal process is slow and expensive -- cases can cost as much as $10,000 or more in a country plagued by poverty -- with no guarantee of success, and some people seeking a faster result fall for online scams. "I don't understand why it has to be this difficult," said Sibonga, who has spent 11 years trying to get out of a marriage that her parents forced her into after she became pregnant. Sibonga's legal battle began in 2012, when she applied to a court to cancel her marriage on the basis of her husband's alleged "psychological incapacity", one of the grounds for terminating a matrimony. After five years and $3,500 in legal fees, a judge finally agreed. The former domestic worker's relief was, however, short-lived. The Office of the Solicitor General, which as the government's legal representative is tasked with protecting the institution of marriage, successfully appealed the decision in 2019. Sibonga said she requested the Court of Appeals to reverse its ruling, but is still waiting for an answer. "Why are we, the ones who experienced suffering, abandonment and abuse, being punished by the law?" said Sibonga, 45, who lives near Manila. "All we want is to be free." 'Dysfunctional marriages' The most powerful opponent to divorce in the Philippines is the Catholic Church, which is also against abortion and contraceptives. Around 78 percent of the country's 110 million people are Catholic, according to official census data, and many politicians are wary of contradicting the Church on sensitive social issues. But Congress has scored significant wins in recent years. A controversial birth control law was passed in 2012, despite strong opposition from the Church. And in 2018, majority and opposition parties in the House of Representatives approved a divorce bill that later stalled in the Senate. It was the first time such a proposal had got that far. Surveys conducted by polling company Social Weather Stations show a shift in Philippine attitudes towards divorce. In 2005, 43 percent of Filipinos supported legalizing divorce "for irreconcilably separated couples", while 45 percent disagreed. The same survey in 2017 showed 53 percent in favor, while only 32 percent disagreed. A group of lawmakers is now leading a fresh push to legalize divorce, with several bills filed in the House and the Senate. "We are not destroying any marriage," said Edcel Lagman, a congressman and author of one of the bills. Lagman said divorce was for "dysfunctional marriages beyond repair" and legalizing it would enable women and their children to escape "intolerant and abusive husbands". Before he was elected, President Ferdinand Marcos said the country should consider allowing divorce, but insisted it should not be easy. Annulment scams The burdensome process for getting a court order to end a marriage has spawned online scams offering to secure a quick ruling without time-consuming court appearances. AFP fact checkers found numerous Facebook posts spreading false information about the legal process for annulment in order to attract clients, underscoring a growing global trend of fraudsters profiting off disinformation. One victim told AFP she was charged the equivalent of $2,400 for an annulment service that turned out to be fake. She is now considering converting to Islam in the hope of securing a divorce under Muslim law. "I'm really trying every possible option just to be single again," she told AFP on the condition of anonymity. "Annulment takes so long, it's so expensive and it's not guaranteed, so I'm seeking a more convenient way." Family law specialist Katrina Legarda said the number of people falling for bogus services showed there was a "dire need" for new legislation. But Father Jerome Secillano, of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines, said the nation should be "proud" to be the only country outside the Vatican "holding on to the traditional concept of marriage". "There will always be imperfections in a relationship," he said. Secillano said divorcing an abusive partner would "perpetuate the violence" because the perpetrator would go on to abuse their next partner. "You are not actually curing the disease itself," he said. 'I'm a sinner' Sibonga was raised a Catholic, but stopped attending church to avoid accusations of adultery. She has a long-term boyfriend, but cannot tie the knot with him until her first marriage is legally terminated. That her case has dragged on for so long is not unusual in the Philippines, where a creaky justice system can take years to resolve even minor issues. "People think that because I am still technically married, I'm a sinner," she said. "They really believe that what God has united cannot be separated. Really? Even if your husband is trying to kill you, even after everything he's done, divorce is still not allowed?" Sibonga said her relationship with her husband had been traumatic and had pushed her to attempt suicide twice. She does not want her children to marry until divorce is allowed. "I told them they can cohabitate and have as many children as they want, but I won't ever consent to them getting married," she said. "I just don't want them to end up like me." The post ‘We want to be free’: Filipinos demand right to divorce appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Divorce bill gets senators’ backing
Calls to legalize divorce and marriage dissolution in the country to liberate Filipinos from domestic violence reached the Senate on Tuesday, and senators are rooting for it to be passed into law this time around. Senators Risa Hontiveros, Raffy Tulfo and Robin Padilla sought support from various governments and concerned agencies to institute divorce in the country, noting that the Philippines is the only country aside from the Vatican that outlaws absolute divorce. “We are the only country, aside from the Vatican, that doesn’t have divorce. As a secular state, this is not something to be proud of,” said Hontiveros, who heads the panel. “This only shows how left behind we are in addressing the needs and recognizing the lived experiences of our people. It’s 2023, yet still no divorce. It’s time to change this.” Hontiveros’ Senate Bill 147, or the Dissolution of Marriage Act, was among the bills tackled during the Senate committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality, along with Tulfo’s SB 213 and Padilla’s 237, which both seek to legalize divorce. Tulfo, who then expressed a readiness to sit down for a dialogue with Catholic Church, which vehemently opposed the measure, believes that legalizing divorce is an act of social justice that will open the door for those who have been miserable in marriage, a new beginning. “The quality of family life for spouses who are already in an unhealthy marital relationship is not what was envisioned by the State as something that needs protecting,” he said. Padilla, who himself has undergone a divorce, meanwhile pointed out that legalizing divorce should not be viewed as a threat to marriage but rather as a way to protect those trapped in a doomed union. “This is not a threat to marriage. We will never be instruments to destroying a union. Never,” he said. “As lawmakers, we will uphold the Constitution to strengthen marriage — but when the time comes that one, two or three Filipinos will seek freedom from a doomed union, that becomes a right.” Several agencies expressed the initiative and vowed to cooperate with the technical working group but only the Alliance for the Family Foundation Philippines Inc. thumbed down the measure. ALFI anchored its opposition to the constitutional mandate to strengthen and protect the family as basic autonomous social institution and marriages as an inviolable social institution. Proposals like these have become a flashpoint between the progressive State and the conservative church as it goes against the Catholic faith. A survey conducted by the Social Weather Station in 2017 revealed that 53 percent of respondents supported legalizing divorce. Another survey conducted in 2018 by Catholic Radio Veritas found that 52 percent “strongly agree” or “somewhat agree” with the measure. A similar proposal moved forward in the House of Representatives following the approval of the committee on population and family relations panel. During the 17th Congress, the House passed a similar proposed law, but failed to hurdle the Senate. The post Divorce bill gets senators’ backing appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
San Sebastian recruits ‘reliable ball handler’
San Sebastian College landed a gem of a recruit as it secured the commitment of former Batang Gilas team captain Migs Pascual in the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament. Newly-appointed Stags coach John Kallos confirmed the development to Daily Tribune, saying that the move is part of their rebuilding program in a bid to reclaim the title they last tasted in 2009. Kallos, who also handles Sarangani in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, took over as head coach of the Stags, replacing Egay Macaraya following a fruitless stint in Season 98 last year. Although Pascual, a deadshot guard who last saw action playing for University of the East in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, will sit out for a year in compliance with the league’s residency rule, Kallos believes that having the former NCAA juniors champion will ensure the Stags of a dependable ball handler in Season 100. “My point guard is graduating so it’s perfect timing for us to get a reliable ball handler as back up for next season and Migs Pascual will fill that spot,” Kallos said in a telephone conversation. Pascual played for Batang Gilas in the Southeast Asian Basketball Association 2017 Under-16 Championship where the Philippines won the gold medal and the FIBA 2018 Under-17 Championship in Argentina alongside Kai Sotto, now a member of the Gilas Pilipinas men’s team, who is now playing in Japan B. League for the Hiroshima Dragonflies. Kallos said he is impressed with what he saw with Pascual during the workouts. “The kid has talent. He is a good point guard and has a good range,” Kallos said. “But I want him to be more aggressive. I understand that he wants to get his teammates involved and that’s a mark of a good point guard, but I also want to see how he shoots the basketball because he can hit those outside shots.” “Overall, I like what I’m seeing from Migs and that’s the reason why I included him in the lineup in some of the preseason leagues we’re joining in.” Aside from playing for Batang Gilas, Pascual was also a key figure in San Beda’s NCAA junior champion squad in 2019 that made him one of the promising high school players in the country. The post San Sebastian recruits ‘reliable ball handler’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ex-Batang Gilas skipper Pascual joins San Sebastian
Former Batang Gilas team captain Migs Pascual is headed to San Sebastian in the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball. Newly installed Stags coach John Kallos confirmed this development to Daily Tribune, saying the move is part of the team’s rebuilding program. Kallos, who also handles Sarangani in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, took over as head coach of the Stags, replacing Egay Macaraya at the end of the NCAA season. Pascual, however, will sit out for one year to comply with the league’s residency rule. The dependable ball carrier and sharpshooter played for the NCAA juniors champion team San Beda before transferring to the University of the East in the Unversity Athletics Association of the Philippines. “My point guard is graduating, so it’s perfect timing for us to get a reliable point guard as backup for next season and Migs Pascual will fill that spot,” said Kallos in a telephone conversation. Pascual played for Batang Gilas in the SEABA 2017 Under-16 Championship where the Philippines won the gold medal, and the FIBA 2018 Under-17 Championship in Argentina alongside Kai Sotto. Sotto, who was also a member of the Gilas Pilipinas men’s team, is now playing in Japan B. League for the Hiroshima Dragonflies. According to Kallos, he is impressed with what he saw in Pascual during the workouts. “The kid has talent, he’s a good point guard and he’s got good range,” said Kallos. “But I want him to be more aggressive. I understand that he wants to get his teammates involved and that’s a mark of a good point guard, but I also want to see how he shoots the basketball because he can hit those outside shots.” “Overall, I like what I’m seeing from Migs and that’s the reason why I included him in the line up in some of the preseason leagues we’re joining in,” the mentor added. Aside from playing for Batang Gilas, Pascual was also a key figure in San Beda’s NCAA junior champion squad in 2019, which made him one of the most promising high school players in the country. The post Ex-Batang Gilas skipper Pascual joins San Sebastian appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Catriona Gray, Sam Milby ikakasal na nga ba?
HOW true kaya ang chika patungkol sa nalalapit na pagpapakasal ni Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray at ng Kapamilya actor na si Sam Milby. Natanong kasi ang beauty queen nang dumalo ito sa Preview Ball 2022 event kung may plano na nga ba silang dalawa ng aktor na iakyat sa next level ang kanilang relasyon. […] The post Catriona Gray, Sam Milby ikakasal na nga ba? appeared first on Bandera......»»