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EcoWaste Coalition: True Radiance Comes from Within, Not from Skin Lightening Products with Mercury
23 March 2024, Quezon City. The toxics watchdog group EcoWaste Coalition, which has been tracking mercury in skin-lightening cosmetics in the Philippines since 2011, reiterated its support for the global effort to put an end to the persistent production, trade, and consumption of racist beauty products with mercury content that claim to whiten the skin and deal with other.....»»
Bato dela Rosa admits: ‘I am afraid of going to jail’
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa admitted that he is afraid of going to jail, anxious that he may not see his grandchildren if it happens. His remarks came as speculations abound that investigators of the International Criminal Court (ICC) are already in the Philippines. The ICC had launched a probe into the.....»»
Can we still become a rich nation?
Greetings of prosperity abound with the dawn of the new year......»»
Papa Obet gifts listeners with poignant Christmas song
From the onset of the “ber” months in the country, classic and contemporary Christmas tunes abound......»»
Budgetary leverage
By passing a financing bill at the last minute, the United States Congress avoided a federal government shutdown this week. However, the Biden administration’s top priorities, including defense financing for Ukraine, were left out of the final package. For countries like the Philippines, which has cozied up anew to Uncle Sam, this is cause for concern because America has practically left Ukraine high and dry without the full backing it needs to defend itself against Russia. Okay, so Biden said they “will not walk out of Ukraine.” Still, without funding, that’s just lip service. Having perfected the art of emotional suasion at one end of the pole and brinkmanship on the other, we would not be surprised if Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky would tell Biden: “Show us the money.” Sacrificing Ukraine casts doubt on America’s dependability as a coalition partner and ally, even as it stakes a claim to a long tradition of backing democracies in their fight for independence. The Philippines should take note. In the US, it’s clear that whatever the executive branch pledges, the US Congress can always override or, as made apparent again now, starve of funding. That’s the power of holding the purse string that could certainly affect America the mighty’s projection of power. From propping up South Vietnam with billions of dollars in war materiel only to leave Saigon in a huff — with choppers flying off the rooftop of the US Embassy in a hasty, humiliating retreat in 1975 — to giving substantial aid to Israel and Middle Eastern countries, the US has not stopped its posturing as the “policeman of the world.” As in Vietnam and Afghanistan, where in the latter it also abruptly pulled out its forces, thereby allowing the Taliban to retake the country in 2021, the US, for all its fire-and-brimstone statements at the start of the Ukraine-Russia war, may have turned its back on its legal and moral responsibility to aid Kyiv. As an adversarial state under madman Vladimir Putin, Russia has been destabilizing international norms, and Ukraine, by fighting back, has been sending the strong message that autocratic governments cannot make the globe their playground. By not including money for Ukraine’s defense in the 2024 spending bill, the US has lost the chance to demonstrate its dedication to the defense of democracy. But such are the vagaries of the budgeting process in the United States and, of course, the Philippines, with the latter’s form of government and jurisprudence loosely patterned after America’s. In the US, government shutdowns have happened before and will happen again when the legislature and the executive branches are unable to reach an agreement on priorities and lawmakers do not enact a budget in a timely manner. The budget can also be wielded as a political baton with which to make the executive branch more malleable. An example would be the 2013 shutdown in an attempt to defund the Affordable Care Act. Frequent disagreements on spending priorities between the two parties in the US Congress have led to stalemates, with neither side willing to pass the budget unless their demands were met. Budget delays had caused negative effects on the economy and public services. Some may argue that past shutdowns of the US federal government would show the Philippines has a more mature budgetary system in place, as a failure to pass the budget for a new fiscal year only results in a reenacted budget. But the problems associated with a reenacted budget abound. There’s the delayed implementation of new programs and projects. This, as a reenacted budget only allows for the funding of existing programs and projects. A reenacted budget also limits government flexibility to respond to changing needs. For example, if the economy experiences a downturn, the government may need to increase spending on social programs or infrastructure projects. However, this is not possible under a reenacted budget. But probably the biggest risk associated with a reenacted budget would be corruption, as it can give the executive branch more leeway or elbow room to fund projects while reallocating “savings” from projects that had been funded previously. In the shadow of budgetary bludgeoning and political brinkmanship, the recent passage of the US funding bill left Ukraine’s defense hanging by a thread, a stark reminder of the capriciousness of budgeting processes in both the United States and the Philippines, where legislative complexities often take precedence over strategic imperatives. The budget’s power to shape policy and dictate priorities, as seen in the Philippines with past reenacted budgets, illustrates the pitfalls of wielding fiscal levers as political weapons. In both nations, the budgeting process, while designed to reflect the will of the people, is susceptible to political posturing, causing disruptions and imperiling the very ideals of democracy it should be upholding. The post Budgetary leverage appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Opening Pandora’s box
Exposing the recruitment racket where Filipinos are brought to Italy using bogus work permits, Daily Tribune’s show Usapang OFW may have opened a can of worms in the country’s skewed policy of relentlessly exporting labor. In most countries, being a migrant worker is a career move, not a forced one to have a decent human existence. The diaspora now consists of more than 10 million Filipinos who are promised by their elected leaders every time they are visited that the time is coming when opportunities at home will allow them to return. Policies, however, continue to lean toward promoting overseas employment mainly due to the lure of $3 billion in remittances that shower the country like manna from heaven monthly. Filipinos are preferred first-class workers due to their proficiency in English and their famed work ethic, resilience, and cheerful nature. The demand for Filipino workers is exploited by those seeking a fast buck by recruiting them. Those seeking jobs abroad are sucked dry before they can get a contract and then squeezed of their hard-earned money again at every opportunity by vultures, including the government. Tales like the emergency repatriation fund being misused to buy overpriced sanitary napkins and similar kickback rackets abound. Some 400 workers recounted to the online program how a Filipino employment consultancy firm based in Italy, Alpha Assistenza SRL, headed by Filipino co-CEOs Krizelle Respicio and Frederick Dutaro, victimized them through a “serial scamming” where they paid substantial sums only to be issued fake Nulla Ostas or work permits. The labor trafficking the Filipino firm had been engaged in was revealed after several individuals surfaced to narrate the ordeal they experienced at the hands of Alpha Assistenza. Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed a resolution to investigate the likely scam operation, but the probe’s focus should be on the officials who are complicit with the crooks. The victims recounted how the sting of bringing Filipinos to Italy with fake work permits could only be possible through the collusion of officials in the foreign diplomatic outposts. An immediate impact of the revelations of massive human trafficking may squander the country’s recently won Tier-1 ranking in the Global Trafficking in Persons report of the US State Department. As a Tier-1 country, the Philippines is considered to have fully met the minimum standards for eliminating trafficking. The government was applauded for its continued demonstration of “serious and sustained efforts” to fight human smuggling and illegal labor deployment. “These efforts included investigating more trafficking crimes, convicting more traffickers, amending its anti-trafficking law, increasing funding to the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, and sentencing nearly all traffickers to significant prison terms,” the US State Department said. Being dropped from Tier-1 would have the effect of foreign governments tightening entry procedures for Filipino workers and the issuance of tighter rules on labor recruitment conducted by local agencies. “Corruption and official complicity in trafficking crimes remain significant concerns, inhibiting law enforcement action during the year,” the US report said. The report continued: “Some officials in law enforcement, immigration agencies, and other government entities are allegedly complicit in trafficking or allow traffickers to operate with impunity. Some corrupt officials allegedly accept bribes to facilitate illegal departures for overseas workers, operate sex trafficking establishments, facilitate the production of fraudulent identity documents, or overlook illegal labor recruiters.” Italy could just be the tip of the iceberg of a possibly colossal syndicate tapping into the tens of millions of job-seeking Filipinos for a lucrative illegal recruitment ring. The post Opening Pandora’s box appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Disguised military force
Wrongheadedly asserting outdated notions about the China Coast Guard or CCG show us exactly why some sitting senators shouldn’t be senators. Worse, despite having been schooled by maritime law experts and defense officials, Senators Robinhood Padilla’s and Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa’s smarmy refusals to believe they are wrong about the CCG embarrass the Senate. Hear Padilla sarcastically telling experts during a joint Senate panel hearing into West Philippine Sea issues: ““Ibig niyong sabihin, iba ang definition ng coast guard ng China? Wow, ha, talaga lang, ha (So you mean, the Coast Guard is defined differently by China? Wow, really, are you sure about that)?” Most of us may be excused if last week we didn’t know or pay much attention to the fact that since its 2021 transformation by Chinese domestic law, the CCG is now a military force disguised as a civilian force. But sitting senators can’t claim the same excuse. Senators are expected to at least possess some knowledge of recent international developments since the Senate is constitutionally tasked with scrutinizing and approving the country’s treaties with other countries. Senators are supposed to enlighten us then. But both Padilla and Dela Rosa inspire us instead of their sheer ignorance of recent Chinese developments that directly affect our national interest. Not taking Filipino expert counsel, too, is wholly pathetic. It isn’t only Filipino experts but international maritime law experts who said the CCG’s command and control structure had been changed to that of a military-like organization under the centralized command of the Chinese Communist Party Central Committee and the Central Military Commission. True, putting military organizations in charge of maritime law enforcement — which coast guards typically do — is not unique to China. For instance, the United States Coast Guard is one of America’s five armed forces branches and has an explicit defense readiness mission. The French, too, have the Maritime Gendarmerie, a paramilitary police force under the operational control of the chief of staff of the French Navy. Still, the US and French coast guards are considered exceptions rather than the rule insofar as how most countries conceive, structure, and operate their civilian-led coast guards. China did follow the general practice when it put up its coast guard in 2013. Since 2021, however, after a comprehensive China Coast Guard Law took effect, China set its coast guard apart from the rest of Asia, except for Vietnam. China ensuring that military, not civilian government agencies, exert control over its coast guard undoubtedly has far-reaching consequences in the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea and the West Philippine Sea. For instance, one consequence of a militarized CCG is that China doesn’t need to declare war in her attempts to expand her de facto control over disputed waters. A militarized CCG is enough to bolster China’s preferred strategic approach of “slow intensity or low-intensity coercion.” Other important consequences of CCG’s militarization abound, particularly thorny questions about Chinese CCG law violating significant provisions of the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea. But that’s for another time. On a more recent topical note, however, our military officials say our armed forces are already preparing for any eventuality should the CCG go beyond firing water cannons when blocking our ships resupplying the beleaguered Ayungin Shoal detachment. Our military’s fears are not unfounded. Article 22 of the CCG law authorizes a CCG vessel to use its weapons without warning against foreign government and civilian vessels. And there are fears the CCG might use weapons deadlier than water cannons and lasers. Some CCG vessels, in fact, are equipped with destroyer-class 76mm guns. It behooves the military, therefore, to keep a close eye on any major equipment changes — like larger caliber guns and missiles — on CCG vessels patrolling the West Philippine Sea. The post Disguised military force appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Even in realty sector, ‘colorums’ abound
A group of real estate professionals decried the rise of “colorums” or unlicensed salespersons as detrimental to the sector due to persisting delays in the release of real estate salespersons’ licenses. In the transport sector, colorums are public vehicles which ride on the franchise or license of a different unit. The Accredited Real Estate Salespersons or ACRES recently held a consultation meeting with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development to address the concern. Among those discussed were the proposed revisions on HLURB Board Resolution 922-14, particularly those affecting the real estate practice. Anthony Gerard Leuterio, founder of A Better Real Estate Philippines, an advocacy coalition and mother organization of ACRES, reiterated in an interview the need for the timely release of licenses of real estate salespersons. “We just want things to be efficient because we are promoting nation-building. We are talking about thousands of salespersons wanting to help the real estate industry flourish. And more importantly, if we are delaying the process, it will create more ‘colorum’ practitioners,” he explained. Simple vs simplistic Meanwhile, ACRES national president Chris Malazarte noted that the policies provided for by Republic Act 9646 or the Real Estate Service Act Law and BR 922-14 are “simple, but the experiences of the salespersons during registration are not simplistic.” “There must be a way to make the experience more encouraging for aspiring registered salespersons. This will lessen the evil we’ve been wanting to avoid — ‘colorum’ sales agents,” Malazarte added. Before selling real estate properties, salespersons are required to secure licenses from DHSUD and the Professional Regulatory Commission. They are also required to join the online oath-taking. About 80 percent of sales are closed by a real estate salesperson. ACRES has a growing membership, from accredited real estate salespersons to those who intend to make their real estate sales practice-compliant. Its membership now stands over 3,000 real estate salespersons nationwide. The post Even in realty sector, ‘colorums’ abound appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Extra rice, please
If only it were possible to give up rice, perhaps Filipinos once again grappling with rising prices of the grain would prefer something else to go with their daing or adobo. Alas, kare-kare, caldereta, and most sauce-y Pinoy dishes are no good without steaming white rice. It’s not all about taste or eating habits either. Most Filipinos eat a lot of rice because it is filling. A movie starring the comedian Dolphy featured a family sharing a plateful of rice, taking turns sniffing at a piece of salted fish before gobbling down a mouthful of the kanin (cooked rice). It filled their bellies and certainly fired up their imaginations. In fact, jokes abound about the Pinoy getting by with unli (unlimited) rice, a little soup, or even that fried chicken gravy. It is no laughing matter, however, that many of our kababayans cannot afford a balanced meal containing proper amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and vegetables regularly. Rice is supposed to be cheap and readily available. Yet here we are, still on the hunt for the P20 per kilo rice promised during the last State of the Nation Address. We sent someone out to buy that rice, but he came back empty-handed. The cheapest kilo of rice, he said, cost P50. And news lately of rice prices expected to continue rising until September leaves us wondering — once again — how in the world did the agricultural Philippines end up importing rice in the first place? Vietnam, which learned rice technology from us, currently pegs the price at “$540 per metric ton, (or) about P30 to P32 per kilo,” said Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc. president Danilo Fausto in a dzBB Super Radyo interview, as reported in a news article. This, he added, is higher than its prices at other times of the year, at “$420 to $440, about P23 to P24 per kilo.” We need to import rice so that the country will have enough supply, he said, suggesting that government should “intervene” and discuss the supply issue with our ASEAN neighbors. Some sources blame the rise in rice prices on “the effects of price manipulation and price speculation,” pointing a finger at businessmen who use the supply and demand equation to make more profit. On the other hand, price watchdogs say it’s the government that has failed to keep a tight rein on prices, letting the fluctuations happen because of inaction. But, perhaps, it is more of slow action that is ailing our government. The Commission on Audit’s latest report released this month flagged the Department of Agriculture over one, “its failure to distribute a total of 855,493 bags of rice seeds meant for farmers under the P10-billion Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund;” and two, failure “to distribute 2,088 pieces of farm machinery, out of the total 22,520 procured equipment.” Also, some “14,192 bags of rice seeds were damaged” while the rest were either donated or kept for the next planting season. Whatever may have caused these incidents, the fact remains that our farmers were “deprived of their needed assistance,” said CoA, and state funds have been likely wasted over damaged goods and equipment rusting in their yards. A review of the Rice Tariffication Law is once more called for. Better prioritization is also demanded of the agencies concerned tasked to support our farmers and the local production of rice, as well as those tasked to protect consumers from price hikes. If the world supply is low, we could try to eat less rice and try other alternatives. There’s always a choice of bread or corn, or even the much-derided kamote, to eat with your Iberian roast chicken — but for bangus, bistek, and sinigang — extra rice, please. The post Extra rice, please appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gilas poised to make a stand
About a week from now, the FIBA Basketball World Cup, one of the most anticipated sporting events on the global stage, is set to unfold to captivate basketball fans around the world. As teams prepare to showcase their skills and compete for the coveted title, the Philippine national basketball team, known as “Gilas Pilipinas,” has been generating significant buzz and raising hopes among its passionate fan base. With a rich basketball history and a growing pool of talented players, the Philippines is poised to make a statement in the upcoming tournament it is co-hosting with Japan and Indonesia. The Philippines has a deep-rooted love for basketball, often referred to as the national sport. The passion for the game runs through the veins of Filipino enthusiasts, making every international competition a matter of immense national pride. Although the country has faced challenges in recent FIBA World Cup editions, the fervent support of the fans and the dedication of the players and coaching staff continue to fuel hopes for a successful campaign this time around. Gilas Pilipinas has faced strong opposition in the past, often contending against teams boasting of NBA-level talent and sophisticated basketball programs. Despite these challenges, the Philippine team exhibited remarkable resilience, showcasing flashes of brilliance that demonstrated its potential on the world stage. In 2014, the country snapped 36 years of futility and earned a ticket to the FIBA World Cup in Spain, capped by a historic win over Senegal that meant all the world to Filipino fans. The upcoming FIBA World Cup presents another opportunity for Gilas Pilipinas to further evolve and make a lasting impression, with the potential to upset more established basketball powerhouses. One key factor contributing to the optimism surrounding the Philippine team is the growing talent pool of Filipino basketball players. The Philippines has produced numerous skilled athletes who have excelled in various basketball leagues both domestically and internationally. Led by Fil-Am Jordan Clarkson, 7-foot-3 Kai Sotto, and World Cup veterans Junmar Fajardo and Japeth Aguilar, the team boasts of skilled players with height, a big factor in the international circuit. Along with a slew of talented players, many of whom honed their skills in collegiate leagues and professional basketball circuits, many think that they will give the opposition a run for their money. Their experience, combined with their familiarity with high-level competition, positions the team to perform at their best during the World Cup. The Philippine basketball community is also benefiting from the increasing support and investment in grassroots basketball development. Basketball courts dot the Philippine landscape, serving as breeding grounds for young talents who aspire to don the national team’s jersey someday. The Philippine Basketball Association continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing homegrown talents, with initiatives aimed at fostering youth basketball and grassroots programs. While optimism is running high, it’s essential to acknowledge the fierce competition that awaits Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA World Cup. Teams from traditional basketball powerhouses, such as the United States, Spain, and France, will be formidable opponents. These teams boast exceptional talent, extensive experience, and robust basketball infrastructure that has consistently propelled them to the upper echelons of international basketball. To increase its chances of success, Gilas Pilipinas must focus on meticulous preparation, effective strategies, and a strong team spirit. The coaching staff, led by Chot Reyes, Tim Cone and Jong Uichico, will play a crucial role in devising game plans that will capitalize on the team’s strengths and exploit opponents’ weaknesses. In all, the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup presents an exciting opportunity for Gilas Pilipinas to showcase its skills, passion, and resilience on the global stage. While challenges abound, the spirit of competition, national pride and the love of the game will undoubtedly drive the team to give its all and leave an indelible mark on the world of basketball. E-mail:mannyangeles27@gmail.com The post Gilas poised to make a stand appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The new landlord: Renting out property
It is no small task to take on the role of a "landlord." Renting out your house comes with challenges and responsibilities, especially for first-time landlords. There are plenty of issues to consider, like getting good tenants, marketing your property, rental payments, addressing tenant issues, and many more. Committed to providing investors with sound investment opportunities, SM Development Corporation (SMDC) has officially launched its leasing and tenancy management arm, SMDC Good Stays, and opened its very first office last July 21 at Air Mall, right within the complex of SMDC's Air Residences off Ayala Avenue in Makati City. Intending to help investors realize the potential of their real estate investments, SMDC Good Stays provides end-to-end leasing and tenancy management services that allow unit owners to maintain and monetize their units professionally. A partner in enriching lives Renting out a property comes with the responsibility of curating a functional and enjoyable living experience for tenants. To ensure higher occupancy rates, lessors must provide tenants feel support during their stay. Whether they rent to relocate for work, move closer to school, build their family roots, or go through life's transitions. [caption id="attachment_169481" align="aligncenter" width="624"] SMDC Good Stays offers comprehensive leasing and tenancy management services to ensure a prosperous and hassle-free investment experience with SMDC.[/caption] With SMDC Good Stays, investors no longer have to worry about the complexities of attracting reliable tenants, preparing for tenant occupancy, or ensuring that their property and tenants are cared for. The leasing arm takes charge of all aspects — from property marketing, tenant sourcing, unit fit-out assistance, contract preparation, and documentation to facilitating general cleaning, repairs, and maintenance. Opportunities abound According to a Q2 2023 Leechiu Property Consultants (LPC) Inc report, the residential sector will remain resilient. As more and more companies revert to a work-from-office set-up, and thanks to the increased office take-up from the BPO and IT-BPM industries, demand from renters is likely to remain strong. Boundless opportunities, therefore, await investors who choose to ride this growth momentum. According to David Leechiu, Co-Founder and CEO of LPC, data shows rental rates of SMDC developments are competitively-priced, making SMDC properties the top choice in the rental market. At the core of this strong stance is SMDC's award-winning business model that continues to make SMDC properties appealing to renters — prime locations; spacious, hotel-like lobbies; health-oriented, resort-style amenities; professional property management services; and most of all, streamlined and efficient customer experience. Tried and tested A professional leasing management partner is a must, especially for investors who want to minimize the stress of renting out a unit. Jeremias Delos Reyes, a Hawaii-based engineer and investor of Air Residences, says the peace of mind, convenience, and returns of having a credible team to manage your leasing business is incomparable. "As an overseas Filipino, having a trustworthy leasing management arm for my home property was paramount. SMDC Good Stays not only had a physical office [ensuring legitimacy], but their responsive agents also ensured a smooth process [and] took care of everything [for me]. Within two to three months, my property was generating passive income," Delos Reyes shared. Embark on a fulfilling investment journey with SMDC, and discover why SMDC Good Stays is your trusted and dependable partner in your real estate success. The post The new landlord: Renting out property appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
It’s Kadayawan Festival in Davao City
The longest and most colorful festival in the Philippines is indubitably Davao City’s Kadayawan Festival. It formally kicks off on 10 August with revelry of ethnic gongs and music festivities and ends on 20 August with dazzling and radiant floats festooned in an array of fruits and flowers. August is the most abundant period of harvests and, as a tradition, the indigenous tribes in the city celebrate the season with festivities. And we celebrate with them. Davao City is home to 11 ethnic tribes. A large portion of elevated and forested lands in the city are their ancestral domain, while a few of them inhabit the coastal area. Despite the diversity of cultures, they live in peaceful coexistence along with other pioneers from various parts of the country. The tribes are well represented in the City Legislative Department and as Deputy Mayors. Let us refer to the City Tourism Office for the description of the various tribes that live in Davao City. Ata. They are shy and kind but are quick to anger. They are often referred to as people of the mountain as they prefer to live in upland areas. Bagobo Klata. They are forest dwellers and brave and feared warriors. They are known for their elaborate attire and fine artistry. Bagobo Tagabawa. They are the best dressed and said to be the most intelligent among the indigenous peoples. They dwell in the foothills of Mt. Apo which they call Apo Sandawa and is their place of worship and considered sacred. Matigsalug. The riverside dwellers. They are engaged in farming and are famous for the native rice variety. They fish and hunt and gather wild fruits for a living. Obu Manuvu. The oldest tribe in Davao City. They are known for their fine weaponry and jewelry. Planting cacao and vegetables is their source of livelihood. Iranun. Davao City has its share of the Iranun tribe who were originally from Illana Bay, better known today as the Moro Gulf, but they have spread to nearly all of Mindanao. They are descendants of Sultan Kudarat. They are known as the defenders of the nation as they fought against the Spanish colonizers. Kagan. This tribe inhabits the coastal areas of Davao. They are referred to as Davao Moros. They are a peace-loving people and are known to co-exist with other tribes. Maguindanaon. Known to be the first major Muslim converts in Mindanao. Courageous and resourceful, they are known for their bravery against the Spanish conquistadores. They live in many parts of Davao City. Maranao. The best dressed among the ethnic groups. They are famous for their wood and metal craft. They are referred to as “people of the lake.” Sama. A peace-loving tribe that values togetherness. Their forebears were said to have special powers as they could summon spirits called “jin” to do things for them. Taosug. They are from Sulu and are known for their bravery, yet are kind, hospitable, and helpful, and have a word of honor. They engage in trading and fishing, as among their means of livelihood. Davao is home to the world’s most elegant eagle and the habitat of the king of orchids we call Waling Waling, or Vanda Sanderana to orchidists. On its fertile lands are a variety of crops, among these, durian, bananas, and pineapples which are the principal exports of the city. Mangosteen, pomelos, lanzones, dragon fruit and rambutan abound this season. Numbeo ranks Davao as the most livable city in the Philippines. And this is made possible by the man who led the city against criminal and drug syndicates and ISIS and communist terrorists. Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte is the one. The first President from Mindanao whose trust and approval ratings, and path of destiny the incumbent Vice President Inday Sara Duterte is bound to be heir to. The 38th Kadayawan Festival is a celebration of life, abundance, and thanksgiving. Come join us. The post It’s Kadayawan Festival in Davao City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM urges gov’t, business sector collaboration
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called for a partnership between the government and the business sector to advance sustainable growth and climate action. In his speech at the APEC Business Advisory Council meeting in Cebu on Friday, Marcos underscored that the business sector is not only a major contributor to the economy but also an “aggressive agent of social change." Marcos added that the two sectors must work together to identify practical, pragmatic, and promising solutions to pressing issues such as energy insecurity, the triple threat of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. "We can pursue innovative technologies and approaches, for example, in the exploration of nuclear energy and small modular reactors as viable options for low or zero carbon energy sources," he said. Marcos also urged the business sector to help the government in its transition to clean energy. He said that shared investment would alleviate the financing burden of governments, while the expertise of businesses in areas such as planning, operations, and execution could be mainstreamed in the sustainability projects of the government. In addition, Marcos called for the standardization of data templates, indicators, and baselines across APEC economies. This would facilitate data collection and exchange, which would in turn strengthen technical cooperation within APEC. He also called for the business sector to take the lead in setting up standards for responsible business conduct that would encourage sustainable practices while balancing rapid growth. "Opportunities abound for our people if APEC preserves its strength as an incubator of ideas, driven in large part by the significant contributions of ABAC and the dynamism of the business community in our region," President Marcos said. He went on to say that the business sector needs to not only work with the government but also take the lead in setting standards for responsible business behavior that will support sustainable practices while keeping fast growth in check. The Chief Executive also thanked the ABAC Philippines for holding the Meeting and told its members to get ideas from their surroundings to finish the deliverables and make the most of the tools they have access to. The post PBBM urges gov’t, business sector collaboration appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘SoNA all’
Hello again my dear readers. Have you ever caught yourself staring at beautiful couples holding hands, happily enjoying their lives, worry-free, as if the world was spinning round and round just for them, and you simply said to yourself: “Sana all.” Or maybe you recently saw your old friend who lost so much weight after moving on and going through so much in life and you whispered to yourself: “Sana all.” Well, you’re not alone. Oftentimes we crave something we want but which we cannot have (yet), or maybe we’re just really optimistic that someday, somehow, we will also have our time to enjoy these things that we crave, because these are things that we cannot buy and have to work hard for to get. It will require time and patience and, most of all, hard work. Things worth having are really worth waiting for. Speaking of worth having, well, I’m pretty sure you will not be deprived of our topic for today because, hey, it is Thirstday again and that means we get to talk about the latest State of the Nation Address or SoNA of PBBM. With all the updates and exciting plans this administration has in store for our beloved country, I say with all high hopes: “SoNA all” Well, that is the beauty of democracy you can express your opinions freely. But before that, did you know that the longest SoNA was delivered by former President Rodrigo Duterte which clocked two hours and 45 minutes? The shortest SoNA was delivered by Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, now the Pampanga 2nd District representative, which took only 25 minutes; while former President Noynoy Aquino delivered the first SoNA in Filipino, “Kayo ang Boss ko,” if you may recall. Going back to the SoNA of President BBM, comments abound in different news outlets and on social media. Well, that is the beauty of democracy — you can express your opinions freely. Foremost in the President’s SoNA was the food security program aimed at putting food on the table of every household. This is a much-needed program if we are to protect our young population from malnutrition, as hunger threatens not only our country but is currently a worldwide problem. With no less than the President at the helm of the Department of Agriculture or DA, the public expects DA officials to fully live up to the aims set by PBBM. Education as a long-term tool and solution for almost all of the challenges we face found its way into the SoNA and was much emphasized by PBBM. With VP Sara piloting the Department of Education, all DepEd officials as co-pilots must steer the department to achieve the progressive education we all aspire for our youth. Infrastructure development, particularly focusing on the transport system with emphasis on seaports, airports, and road networks, is on the priority list of the President. This will provide easy access for every Juan as they work and travel or for every Nena and Pilar as they buy their daily needs nearby or shop elsewhere. Tourism will also get a boost as many destinations open and become accessible to local and foreign travelers and, yes, such movement of people will spur economic activity that will spell renewed income for local folk and added revenue for the government. Disaster preparedness and resilience is the cornerstone of a sound program to mitigate the effects of disasters. The President outlined fully the desire to achieve resilience and be totally prepared against disasters, whether man-made or natural. An average of twenty typhoons a year visit our country, which is in the “ring of fire,” an imaginary global ring of islands and land masses where volcanoes abound and earthquakes frequently emanate. Well, better watch National Geographic or read books! Nose bleed. Well, it is not only typhoons and the “ring of fire” that we should worry about, hence, the President underlined the plan for a new amnesty program for former rebels who returned to the fold of the law and to encourage the remnants of the armed communist group to embrace peace and be productive citizens of mainstream society. The priority legislative agenda of the President was laid out precisely. Foremost are the essential tax measures under the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework, such as: An excise tax on single-use plastics; VAT on digital services; rationalization of mining fiscal regime; motor vehicle user’s charge/road user tax, and the Military and Uniformed Personnel pension. The President enjoined Congress to act on the following: Amendment of the Fisheries Code; amendment of the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act; Amendment of the Cooperative Code; New Government Procurement Law; New Government Auditing Code; Anti-financial accounts scamming; Tatak-Pinoy law; The Blue Economy law; Ease of paying taxes; LGU income classification; and the Philippine Immigration Act. Congress is expected to act on these and make them more responsive to the current fortunes of time, especially with the fast pace of technology. Looking back and then focusing our eyes on the immediate future, we should all be hopeful for the plans the President laid out, especially on food security, education, infrastructure development, disaster preparedness, and all others which directly affect our daily lives, and be part of it, not because we are red, green, blue, yellow or whatever color of the rainbow or even a Power Ranger. Just as Master Rapper Francis M. said in his famous song: “Every color, every hue is represented by me and you, take a slide on the slope, take a look at the kaleidoscope..,” but because the current skipper needs all hands on deck and most importantly... we are all in the same boat. The post ‘SoNA all’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Landers opens ninth superstore in Taguig
Landers Superstore, the fastest growing membership shopping store in the country, recently opened its ninth store at Arca South in Taguig City. With its wide selection of topnotch brands, exclusive deals and premium perks, Landers Arca South is a stand-alone building situated in the heart of Arca South, a sprawling Ayala-owned estate slated to be the next BGC with its seamless integration of work, play and relaxed living. Key to its appeal is its accessibility, thanks to its close proximity to major cities and thoroughfares like Skyway, SLEX and C5. The façade features a fresh design and color scheme that blends in with surrounding structures — a first for any Landers store. As for the interiors, it sports the same modern yet elegant design seen in recently opened stores, making every visit truly Instagram-worthy. It also has a wide parking space, an expansive retail area and a cozy dining spot with high, airy ceilings and beautiful accent lights. The main highlight, however, is the diverse selection of imported and local goods — from hard-to-find brands and specialty items to grocery staples and locally sourced but high-quality produce. Delicious food choices also abound, starting with its in-house restaurant Landers Central that serves New York-style pizzas, pastas, fried chicken, hotdogs in buns, French fries and salads. Doppio Café, on the other hand, serves brewed coffee, milk tea, blended drinks and desserts. Landers Arca South completes the shopping experience with its host of exclusive perks for members. These include free haircut at Federal Barbers, low-priced medicines and wellness supplies at Capital Care Pharmacy and discounted fuel and Solane LPG at Landers-Caltex gas station. Landers Arca South offers easy access to major promos and events like Super Crazy Sale, Super Fuel Sale, Piso Sale, Wine Festival, Fresh and Produce Sale and more. To enjoy access to the store and its extensive list of perks, shoppers need to apply for membership in-store or at www.landers.ph. Membership fees are currently priced at P350 or 50-percent off the regular fee of P700 as a special treat for Landers Arca South’s opening week. Visit Landers Arca South at Arca Blvd, Western Bicutan, Taguig City. The post Landers opens ninth superstore in Taguig appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Risks abound Philippines’ fintech sector but profit churn awaits investors
BMI rated the Philippines to trail behind Malaysia and Indonesia in terms of banking industry risks......»»
For better or worse
This July 24th, the country will once again hear from President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. as he delivers his second State of the Nation Address, or SoNA. It is expected that this SoNA will outline the key accomplishments of PBBM’s administration after completing his first year in office. And it would be interesting to see and hear what these would be, and if they have resonated with the public in terms of benefit or detriment. Of course with the SoNA comes the grading report by political analysts, pundits, opinion makers, critics, as well as supporters, and all those who are invested in the government and its successes and failures. Overall, and if we go by the polls on performance and trust ratings, PBBM managed to steer the country through with relative stability, but there were the political and socio-economic hiccups and concerns which, if not handled better, may well be his Waterloo. For instance, his administration was rocked early on by issues with appointments and subsequent resignations. This did not bode well for the President on a personal level, as this was taken as a sign of weakness as well as of an internal power struggle. Questions abound as to what really took place, and what might have been if PBBM had conveyed a stronger and more assertive presence. Case in point: what happened to former Executive Secretary, Atty. Vic Rodriguez, who was very instrumental in the BBM run to the presidency, only to fall by the wayside in just four months after assuming the ES post. With what is happening now inside Malacañang, and all the leaks springing out because of very poor communications strategy and management, would it have been better if Atty. Vic had remained ES and continued to be the effective shock absorber and at the same time fireman? For all his faults, one thing about Atty. Vic is that he never wavered in his loyalty and respect for the President, considering that he could have been the “Chavit” to President Erap Estrada, and triggered his downfall. Yes, it could have been worse, and for this, we have to give it to Atty. Vic for letting go of the irresistible power and fading sublimely to private life. Now we have a SoNA to look forward to and see if it is indeed a better administration now than when it started. Or maybe, it has become worse. Mark my word. The post For better or worse appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Swiss welcome offers sweet respite
Welcome to “The Suite Life,” which explores the world of hotels in and out of the Philippines. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious novice, I hope this column helps guide you to what hotels in the Philippines and beyond have to offer. From the bustling cityscape of Manila to the tranquil beaches of Boracay, it’s a journey through the best hotels, resorts and villas in the country and beyond to discover the most exciting and exotic hotels in the world. Pack your bags and join me on this exciting adventure as I share the hidden gems and ultimate destinations for your next getaway. Our first hotel for this month is the Swissötel Clark in Pampanga. [caption id="attachment_148661" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF Swissötel Clark | Swissötel Clark Pampanga.[/caption] Cheese and chocolate, watches and private banks — if there’s any country defined by these words, it’s Switzerland. Renowned for its punctuality and precision, the country is very well-known for its high-end horology. If you want to know how deep this characteristic runs within the country, Switzerland’s national hero, William Tell, is more famous for shooting an apple off his son’s head than his defense of Switzerland from many a tyrant. Such precision is what Tell and Switzerland are known for, and it’s this exact value that the Swiss carry into hospitality. [caption id="attachment_148662" align="aligncenter" width="525"] THE atrium.[/caption] Apart from what the history books will say about Switzerland, it’s also a place I’ve gotten to know up close. I lived in Neuchatel when my husband was taking his post-grad degree and got to imbibe in its culture and way of life, day in and out. It’s always in the details. These may seem minute or effortless, but they always add a thoughtful layer to the whole experience. Such touches abound at Swissötel Clark, and it definitely reminded me of the Swiss approach to doing things. The welcome: Located in the Clark Freeport Zone, I was surprised to find the hotel packed and buzzing. The lobby café was full, leaving no seats available, and the bright, bustling lobby was filled with people waiting — either for loved ones or colleagues — to be taken in by Swiss hospitality or having just finished a relaxing stay. The lobby was a walk away from the casino, leaving the vibrant lobby to shine all on its own. The room: Rooms and suites at Swissötel Clark welcome you with floor-to-ceiling views of the city or the mountains, flooding the room with natural light. A medley of creams, grays and browns, coupled with a king-size bed and Posturepedic mattress, high-speed Wi-Fi, cable and satellite TV channels, and USB charging stations provide a great sense of comfort for anyone looking to relax. The bathroom continues this philosophy with marble furnishings, a rain shower, and a soaking tub. Anyone looking for a more luxurious experience can upgrade to a Swiss Executive Lounge access suite with complimentary breakfast and refreshments. [caption id="attachment_148664" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PREMIUM room with king size bed.[/caption] The restaurants: I wasn’t able to try the breakfast because my alarm didn’t go off that morning, but I was able to try meals at Swissötel Clark’s two restaurants. Markt is their all-day dining buffet with incredible food. Initially conceived as an a la carte offering for diners to choose from, every station offers the full package with mains at every section, making them all stars in their own right. The hotel also has a permanent place on the menu for classic Swiss dishes like älplermagronen (Swiss macaroni and cheese with applesauce) and Zurich-style veal with mushrooms. [caption id="attachment_148663" align="aligncenter" width="525"] NASI, a contemporary restaurant that specializes in Filipino cuisine.[/caption] Ristorante Di Verona, on the other hand, is easily one of the best places to try modern and authentic Italian cuisine without leaving the country. With large, luxurious windows and al fresco seating, their spacious halls are filled with soothing Italian music and the noise of happy diners. They offer a fine selection of aperitifs, over 300 wines sourced from various regions of Europe, digestivos, and other Italian favorites, as well as their famous balsamico de Modena 25 anni 550, delightfully paired with Italian bread. Unique touches to the hotel: Details like the collar brooch and the shoe buckle of the doorman did not go unnoticed. The doorman is the first to greet visitors and serve as the best representation of the Swiss tradition of service. Their gear resembles the Appenzell costume designed by Ida Gout and the delicate brooch designed by goldsmith Sebastian Fassler shows a lot of care and thought for the kind of service they want to bring. The hotel itself also makes use of Appenzell design, the town famous for its mountain range. One must also have the Swissötel traditional cake with its notable ingredient of ground hazelnuts. Experiential for all senses that pull focus on their attention to what matters. The Spa: Swissötel Clark will launch their spa and Vitality suites soon. Every one of their six private suites will have its own gym equipment for guests to enjoy their fitness regimens in private. Swiss mindfulness podcasts, the Vitality kit, wellness treatments, and menus round out the entire experience for a great session. Outside, on the other hand, lets guests exercise with fresh air on bike and jogging paths as part of the hotel’s promotion of a healthy environment. I’m hearing that one of the managers hails from a 5-star hotel in Mandaluyong with a very good spa, who is also a professional therapist with a good grasp of wellness and treatments — a lot of which they can do themselves, so consider my expectations high. [caption id="attachment_148665" align="aligncenter" width="525"] VITALITY suite[/caption] Great food, comfortable rooms and fresh air for all — they did not miss a beat when it came to bringing Swiss hospitality to the country, even down to the finest details. Taking a trip up north to Pampanga is a great way to retreat from the city for a bit, made even better if you’re staying at Swissötel Clark. The post Swiss welcome offers sweet respite appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biggest-ever airliner order marks first day of Paris Air Show
European aircraft maker Airbus got the Paris Air Show off to a soaring start on Monday with the announcement of the biggest-ever order for civil aircraft, as the French president joined a big crowd for the event's return after a four-year Covid hiatus. The 500-plane deal with low-cost Indian carrier IndiGo kicked off what organizers have billed as the "recovery airshow" after the coronavirus ravaged the sector and the biennial trade fair was canceled in 2021. Fighter jets and civilian aircraft streaked across the sky while suited and uniformed delegations, including Ukrainian military officials and President Emmanuel Macron, toured the stands. This year's airshow has a new focus on defence following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as well as the industry's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, with French President Emmanuel Macron arriving in a helicopter partly using sustainable aviation fuel. Macron called for "restraint" to protect the environment but said measures for aviation should be "reasonable" rather than "punitive", adding that the world shouldn't "give up on growth". Huge traffic jams around Le Bourget airport outside Paris were a testament to the interest in this year's show, as aircraft makers field hundreds of orders and airlines brace for a near-record number of passengers this year. The Ukraine conflict has also prompted countries to boost military spending, which could benefit aerospace defense firms. While Russia has been excluded from the event, Ukrainian military officials toured the huge exhibition space at Paris-Le Bourget airport, some taking photos of missiles on display. Passion for air hasn't disappeared Macron announced that Belgium is to be admitted as an observer to the French-German-Spanish Future Combat Air System program, which is seeking to develop the next generation of air combat technology. Macron, closing a ministerial conference on European air defense, called it a " major development". The FCAS is due to come into service by 2040 but has already suffered numerous delays. Also on the military front, Macron said that France, Estonia, Hungary, Belgium, and Cyprus are to jointly purchase Mistral short-range surface-to-air missiles. "This is a very fine example of sovereign cooperation between Europeans on a range that is entirely relevant and that was not sufficiently covered", the French leader said. There was star turns for the Rafale fighter made by France's Dassault and the American F-35 jet, with hundreds of visitors turning their phone cameras skyward and some plugging their ears against the deafening flypasts. Le Bourget offers a forum to announce deals with some 2,500 firms lining up to show off their latest planes, drones, helicopters and prototypes such as flying taxis. With 125,000 square meters (1,350,000 square feet) of exhibition space -- the equivalent of nearly 18 football pitches -- around 320,000 visitors are expected during the week-long event. "Passion for the air hasn't disappeared, that's good news," said Bertrand Godinot, easyJet's Netherlands and France director. Big deals Along with the Farnborough airshow in England, which takes place in even-numbered years, Le Bourget is a key sales event for the civil and defence industries. Airbus and rival Boeing compete fiercely in announcing orders for aircraft running into the billions of dollars. Monday's IndiGo-Airbus deal covers A320 family planes at a list price of $55 billion. Although closely held actual sale prices are usually lower, it marks the largest ever civil aviation order by volume, hailed by Airbus chief executive Guillaume Faury as "an enormous milestone". Airbus and Boeing are also battling to solidify supply chains as they increase production to meet growing demand. The United States has a strong presence with 425 exhibitors, while firms from 46 other nations are present. China, which lifted Covid restrictions only at the beginning of this year, is also represented. However, Beijing is not displaying its first homegrown medium-haul passenger jet, the C919, built to compete with the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX. Flying taxis The airshow also hopes to open a window into the future as projects for flying taxis and other vertical take-off aircraft abound. Several prototypes will be on display as part of a "Paris Air Mobility" exhibition to showcase the latest innovations that developers hope will change how people travel. Macron arrived aboard Airbus' latest helicopter, the H160, in a flight fuelled with 30 percent sustainable aviation fuel before visiting the European group's stand where it laid out its net-zero-by-2050 plan. Macron had on Friday announced $2.2 billion to help develop technologies to reduce aircraft emissions. Air travel accounts for nearly three percent of global CO2 emissions but serves only a small minority of the world's population. With the industry targeting net zero emissions by mid-century, firms are turbocharging efforts to achieve it. The initial focus is on SAF, made from sources such as municipal waste and agricultural waste. But companies are also working to develop battery- and hydrogen-powered aircraft. The post Biggest-ever airliner order marks first day of Paris Air Show appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Unemployment eases in April
The unemployment rate in the Philippines eased in April as the domestic economy made further progress in the labor market, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed on Friday. In a briefing, National Statistician Dennis Mapa said preliminary results of the April 2023 Labor Force Survey showed the number of unemployed persons during the month stood at 2.26 million. The number declined by 18.12 percent from the 2.76 million unemployed Pinoys in April last year. Month-on-month, the number of jobless Filipinos or those out of business in April is lower than the 2.42 million unemployed persons tallied in March. That translated to an unemployment rate of 4.5 percent in March, inching down from the preceding month's rate of 4.7 percent. The country's employment rate in April also soared to 95.5 percent from 94.3 percent in 2022. Mapa said industries with the largest increase in employment were wholesale and retail trade, accommodation and food service activities, transportation and storage, and other service activities. "This is because we see the reopening of the economy, there are more tourists, more people are going out that's why the largest source of employment is the accommodation and food service activities plus transportation. Those are the areas we have an increase in the number of employed persons," Mapa said. However, the data indicated that there were 6.2 million Filipinos who desired to work additional hours in April, reflecting an underemployment rate of 12.9 percent. This figure was higher than the previous month's rate of 11.2 percent. Several economists remained bullish on the country's labor market prospects after the country's labor data figures improved across all indicators in April. China Banking Corp. chief economist Domini Velasquez noted in a Viber message that there are no signs of a deterioration in the country’s employment outlook in the near term, due to continued economic expansion. However, Velasquez mentioned that there are key risks to the labor market’s recovery abound. “Key risks remain to be higher than expected minimum wage hikes, El Nino’s impact on the agriculture sector, and slow down in exports industries,” she added. Meanwhile, Ateneo De Manila University's economist Leonardo Lanzona turned critical of the latest jobs data. He argued that data on the accessibility of nonstandard labor arrangements, such as online labor platforms which offer jobs but not much in compensation, is particularly crucial at this point. "These informal jobs may be quite widespread," Lanzona said. The post Unemployment eases in April appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»