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EcoWaste Coalition Campaigns for Clean and Eco-Friendly Elections
17 October 2023, Manila City/Quezon City. The EcoWaste Coalition, an advocacy group for a zero waste and toxics-free society, made a last-ditch appeal to candidates running for elective Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan posts to think of Mother Earth as they court the electorates.As the 10-day campaign period is set to start this Thursday, the group gathered outside the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in.....»»
Aplasca submits courtesy resignation to PBBM
The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) Administrator, Ma.O Aplasca, formally submitted his courtesy resignation to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday afternoon. It was in connection with the statement made by House Speaker Martin Romualdez that he would personally block the approval of the OTS budget and the Department of Transportation. According to Aplasca, he is not ready to sacrifice the agency but he considers it an honorable task in the interest of the majority. As the administrator of the OTS, he said he did not do anything wrong. He added that he just implemented the anti-corruption campaign in all the airports. Aplasca also believes that the men and women of OTS will not fail in their promise to clean up their ranks to realize a convenient and safe transportation system. The post Aplasca submits courtesy resignation to PBBM appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Circular Explorer boosts Manila Bay rehab
A solar-powered, marine waste-removing vessel has removed and recycled 600,000 tons of plastic waste from Manila Bay from January, when it started its cleanup of the polluted body of water, to June. On 10 September, the Circular Explorer also collected 18,415 kilograms of waste, including 7,965 kilograms of plastics, in 3.84 million square meters of the bay. With the significant accomplishment of the Circular Explorer, which is operated by the Holcim Group and One Earth-One Ocean, a partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources is now in the works to align the vessel’s activities with the agency’s Manila Bay rehabilitation program. “We are proud to see the Circular Explorer in action and responding to the enormous challenge of marine pollution. The vessel also plays a key role in amplifying our message on the importance of circularity to preserve natural resources and minimize waste,” Holcim Philippines president and CEO Horia Adrian said. “With the first months of cleanup operations, a vision has become reality. We are now actively helping clean Manila Bay with this unique prototype vessel,” OEOO Circular Explorer project manager Daniel Scheler said. The Philippine Coast Guard Marine Environmental Protection Command participate in the Circular Explorer’s daily cleanup of the bay. The vessel has special sensors for collecting data on marine microplastics, huge concentrations of which endanger aquatic life. The gathered information is shared with the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute, which is studying waste management and aquatic conservation strategies. The vessel is also spreading awareness on the importance of a circular economy through an education campaign with the advocacy organization Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation. “I am stoked to see even more important milestones coming up soon, as we are about to take the next exciting steps toward consolidating our Education and Scientific pillars,” according to Scheler. Holcim Group Circular Explorer project manager Christine Bellen, for her part, said, “We are excited to see the Circular Explorer reach new milestones under its waste collection, science, and education pillars in collaboration with our amazing partners. As it gathers more support in its mission, we are confident in seeing it deliver a bigger positive impact that can extend beyond the Philippines.” The education campaign will be run in a number of public and private elementary schools to embed the value of protecting seas and conserving resources among elementary and high school students. The post Circular Explorer boosts Manila Bay rehab appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl joins anew the global effort to protect oceans
Thousands of volunteers in over 150 countries, joined the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) Day, a global initiative dedicated to addressing ocean pollution through beach and waterway cleanups held every third Saturday of September. Now in its 37th year, the Philippines has been participating in the ICC since 1994. In 2003, Proclamation No. 470 officially designated the third Saturday in September as ICC Day, instilling a sense of vigilance among Filipinos in their support of the ongoing global fight against marine litter. The theme "Clean Seas for Healthy Fisheries" is carried out by this year’s ICC which aligns closely with the objectives of the United Nations (UN) Ocean Decade Challenge 3 which is to “Sustainably Feed the Global Population”. This challenge recognizes the need to ensure sustainable food production from the ocean to feed the growing global population while safeguarding the health and productivity of marine ecosystems. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in partnership with numerous organizations, took the lead in coordinating cleanups in various water bodies across the country. An estimated 35,000 volunteers armed with sacks, rakes, and gloves joined forces for the cleanup effort across the country. Participants included individuals and groups from the DENR workforce, national and local government agencies, academia, the private sector, youth organizations, civic groups, and civil society. Concurrent coastal cleanups led by various DENR offices and bureaus were held nationwide including key areas such as the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park; the Tullahan River along Barangay San Bartolome in Novaliches, Quezon City; Baseco Beach in Manila; the Balanga Wetland and Nature Park in Bataan; Barangay Butong Taal in Batangas; the Mactan Channel in Lapu-Lapu, Cebu; the Abatan River and Panglao in Bohol; Banica River in Dumaguete; Bais City, Negros Oriental; and along the shore of Pagadian Bay in Zamboanga Del Sur. The DENR regional and field offices also partnered with SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, together with SM Prime Holdings, Inc., in organizing clean-up drives in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Fifteen SM Malls were designated as a base that enabled volunteers, including SM employees, to actively participate in the cleanup drive. Likewise, regional offices of the Department have collaborated with UNTV offices across the country under the latter’s advocacy campaign Ocean Care Initiative. Beyond waste retrieval, ICC volunteers documented the volume of waste collected which will be submitted to Ocean Conservancy and UN Ocean Decade to contribute to global efforts to combat plastic pollution. During the 2022 ICC, findings of the Global Ocean Trash Index conducted by Washington, D.C.-based environmentalist advocacy group Ocean Conservancy showed that the Philippines collected 249.382 metric tons of waste. The collected waste encompassed a spectrum of items, including cigarette butts, beverage bottles, food wrappers, bottle caps, grocery bags, food containers, cups and plates, straws, and stirrers. DENR Secretary Antonia Loyzaga said her department's unwavering commitment to enacting effective solid waste management practices, supports a circular economy wherein all plastics are reused, recycled, repurposed, and responsibly managed. The DENR, she added, in collaboration with organizations, implements a range of programs to address solid waste in cities and municipalities nationwide. This is in support of reinforcing the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022 or Republic Act 11898 which mandates enterprises to establish EPR programs for plastic waste reduction, recovery, and diversion. The post Phl joins anew the global effort to protect oceans appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Welcoming students with learning-conducive classrooms
Consumer product and diversified science company 3M Philippines recently partnered with public schools to prepare for the School Year 2023 — 2024 opening. With a new period of on-site classes on the horizon, there was no better time for 3M Philippines to launch their back-to-school campaign Malinis, Maaliwalas, at Masiglang Pagbabalik Eskwela, which was conducted as part of the Department of Education's annual Brigada Eskwela program. For this school year, 3M Philippines aspired to create a welcoming environment for incoming students of Cubao Elementary School in Quezon City and Cayetano Arellano High School in the City of Manila. Vivian Faustino, country sales leader for 3M Philippines Consumer Business Group, spoke about the company's goals for this latest initiative. Faustino states, "3M supports Brigada Eskwela and the bayanihan spirit of all the education stakeholders in preparing and providing a clean learning environment for students and teachers in public schools." Indeed, the uniquely Filipino bayanihan spirit prevailed as volunteers from 3M Philippines and Global Service Center spent time cleaning and decorating the schools with teachers, students, and their parents. Some household brands of 3M that sponsored the event are Scotch-Brite, Post-it, and Scotch. With the help of Scotch-Brite Scouring, Bathroom, and Floor Care products, the school facilities were made neat for teachers and students. To beautify the classrooms, 3M Philippines also provided stationery and school supplies from its brands Scotch and Post-it. John Butch P. Locara, principal of Cayetano Arellano High School, expressed his appreciation for the superior quality of 3M’s products. “Dito sa aming paaralan, subok na namin ang mahusay na kalidad ng Scotch tapes. Ginagamit ko ‘yan sa aking trabaho sa opisina,” he said. “Kami ay naniniwala na sa pagbabayanihan ng bawat isa ay maihahanda natin ang paaralan na malinis at maayos para sa ating mga mag-aaral.” Eloisa C. Tamon, principal of Cubao Elementary School, was likewise grateful for 3M’s partnership. “Salamat 3M Philippines sa pagpili sa amin bilang benepisyaryo para sa Brigada Eskwela,” she said. “Nakasisiguro kami na gamit ang mga produkto ng 3M ay malilinis natin ng mahusay at mapapaganda ang bawat classroom at paligid ng paaralan.” The post Welcoming students with learning-conducive classrooms appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UK man swims entire New York river in clean-water campaign
British endurance swimmer Lewis Pugh on Wednesday completed a 315-mile (500-kilometer) journey down New York's Hudson River, highlighting its successful decades-long cleanup as a beacon for other waterways. "Fifty years ago, this was one of the most polluted rivers in the whole world," said Pugh, 53, who was appointed the first UN patron of the oceans a decade ago. "We need to have clean, healthy rivers," he told reporters after completing the unassisted trip from the Hudson's mountain source all the way down to New York City. He said that in New York's industrial past, the river would sometimes change color from day to day, depending on what dyes and other pollutants were dumped or ran off. But after decades of action to clean up pollution, Pugh was able to safely swim down the river, a month-long feat he said will hopefully inspire others. "They're going to be inspired by what happened here and say to themselves: 'If they can do that in the Hudson, surely we can do it in our river and our river can also be saved,'" he said. Pugh has previously undertaken high-profile swims in Antarctica, the North Pole and the Red Sea to advocate for rivers clean enough to swim and fish in safely. His Hudson River feat comes as leaders from the around the globe are set to descend on New York to attend the annual UN General Assembly, during which a historic High Seas Treaty is to be formally signed. The post UK man swims entire New York river in clean-water campaign appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Singapore holds first contested presidential vote in over a decade
Singaporeans head to the polls Friday in the city-state's first contested presidential election in more than a decade, a vote being closely watched as an indication of support for the ruling party after a rare spate of political scandals. The president's role is largely ceremonial, but there are stringent requirements for the position, which formally oversees the city's accumulated financial reserves and holds the power to veto certain measures and approve anti-graft probes. While the presidency is a non-partisan post under the constitution, political lines were already drawn ahead of the election to replace incumbent Halimah Yacob, who ran unopposed for her six-year term in 2017. The city-state's government is run by the prime minister, currently Lee Hsien Loong of the People's Action Party, which has ruled Singapore continuously since 1959. Observers said the vote could indicate the level of PAP support ahead of general elections due by 2025 or discontent after recent scandals that include a corruption probe into the transport minister and the resignations of two PAP legislators over an affair. The frontrunner is former deputy prime minister and finance minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a long-time PAP stalwart before he resigned ahead of his candidacy. The 66-year-old economist is widely perceived as having the government's backing and was questioned about his independence during the campaign. Another candidate, former insurance executive Tan Kin Lian, 75, has gained the support of several opposition leaders. The third candidate, Ng Kok Song, 75, is the former chief investment officer of Singapore sovereign wealth fund GIC, which manages the country's foreign reserves. "The presidential election is increasingly being treated as a general election," said Mustafa Izzuddin, a political analyst with consultancy Solaris Strategies Singapore. "An increase in protest voting is anticipated due to vacillating ground sentiments vis-a-vis the ruling government." The PAP was recently rocked by political scandals, a rarity in the city which has capitalized on its reputation for clean government to become an international hub for an array of industries like finance and aviation. The PAP suffered its worst-ever election performance in 2020 but maintained its more than two-thirds majority. Voting is compulsory for Singapore's more than 2.7 million eligible citizens. Those who do not vote without a valid reason risk being struck from the voters' list. Singapore requires presidential candidates to have served either as a senior civil servant or the chief executive of a company with shareholder equity of at least 500 million Singaporean dollars ($370 million). Perhaps the president's most crucial function is to serve as a custodian of Singapore's financial reserves, which can only be drawn upon in exceptional circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2009 global financial crisis. The post Singapore holds first contested presidential vote in over a decade appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DoH: Include anti-dengue drive in ‘Brigada’
PALO, Leyte — The Department of Health regional office on Sunday appealed to school administrators, teachers, parents and other stakeholders involved in “Brigada Eskwela” to include in the clean-up drive all potential breeding grounds of mosquitoes that can infect school children with dengue. DoH regional information officer Jelyn Malibago said that while the general trend of dengue cases in Eastern Visayas is already going down, there is a possibility that it may spike again when classes start if the breeding ground of mosquitoes are not eradicated. “This is the right time to practice search and destroy activities,” Malibago said, referring to the DoH campaign to look for places where mosquitoes breed such as stagnant water inside old bottles, basins, trash bins or old tires. “‘Brigada Eskwela’ is not only about repainting and beautifying the school but also cleaning the surroundings to ensure that schools remain a safe place for the school children,” Malibago said. “The “Brigada Eskwela” is an annual program that engages all education stakeholders to contribute their time, efforts, and resources in ensuring that public schools are all set in time for class opening. Data from the DoH-8 Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit showed a total of 2,139 dengue cases have been reported in Eastern Visayas from 1 January to 5 August this year with eight deaths. This number of cases is lower by 45 percent compared to 3,905 cases reported over the same period in 2022. Leyte recorded the most with 862 cases or 40 percent of the total. Over half of these cases were children of school age. The post DoH: Include anti-dengue drive in ‘Brigada’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MMDA lauds LGUs, SK for smoke-free parks in the metropolis
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) commended the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) and their respective local government units (LGUs) for declaring the parks under the Adopt-A-Park program as smoke- and vape-free areas. The agency, in collaboration with the Department of Interior and Local Government, National Youth Commission, The Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Vital Strategies, and Action on Smoking and Health, recently conducted two rounds of communications planning with the SK Federation of the 17 Metro Manila LGUs. Various activities will be conducted at the Adopt-A-Park locations to promote a healthier and safer environment as a result of the said planning activity. MMDA acting chairman Atty. Romando Artes said the youth must be provided with healthy surroundings and public parks must be conducive for activities that would strengthen children’s bodies and protect them against any danger. Starting this week, dubbed as the “Linggo ng Kabataan”, LGUs and their respective SKs will conduct several activities aimed at increasing the awareness of the youth on health and safety. Dr. Madeleine Valera, senior technical adviser of the Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease said that “tobacco use remains a significant public health concern, causing more than 87,000 Filipinos [to lose] their lives to tobacco-related diseases.” She added that “involving the youth in the campaign can make a lot of difference.” “The MMDA and SKs Smoke-Free Parks initiative marks a pivotal stride in creating healthier public spaces where citizens can truly flourish. Vital Strategies is proud to support this endeavor, one that safeguards the public’s health and wellness by hindering the use of cigarettes, vapes, and other deadly tobacco products," said Kaloi Garcia, senior communications manager of Vital Strategies, an international health nonprofit organization. Seminars, a song-making contest, book trade, clean-up drive, focus group discussions, Pinoy games, planting, and social media party, are among the advocacy activities identified by the Sangguniang Kabataan to be conducted this month. The post MMDA lauds LGUs, SK for smoke-free parks in the metropolis appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Dirty brew
Harmony with the communities where San Miguel Corp. — which gained fame for its renowned beer — has put up its energy plants is not what the company is projecting, as most plants have been the subject of massive complaints from residents. According to a survey by think-tank Center for Energy, Ecology and Development, most of the complaints are related to the effects on the environment of the projects. For instance, in 2017, communities and civil society organizations launched the Break Free 2017 campaign to oppose the expansion of fossil fuel industries at the project site of SMC’s Limay Coal Power Plant. Residents of Limay, Bataan complained of being exposed to the emissions of the then 300-megawatt, or MW, coal plant and the 140-MW plant of the Petron Bataan Fuel Refinery. The groups’ claim that the plant’s testing operations may have resulted in ash spills was found to be accurate by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which issued a Cease and Desist Order. Before SMC acquired the Masinloc power plant in 2018, the plant was already subjected to opposition, which led to delays in its operation during the 1990s. Environmentalists, farmers, and fishermen at the time staged protests, claiming that contaminated water from the plant would reduce the fish catch. The Masinloc power plant was then owned and operated by state firm National Power Corp. and was billed as the solution to the long brownouts that Luzon suffered daily. Using his emergency powers, then-President Fidel Ramos endorsed the quick construction of the project, displacing over 1,000 individuals in the process. It was then discovered that the plant produced over 385,000 tons of ash yearly, putting local communities’ health at risk. The previous owners of the Masinloc power plant claimed to have spent over $1 billion for its realignment to make it more environmentally friendly. SMC considered the power asset as allowing them to increase their footprint in clean coal technology. There were then also complaints from residents whom CEED said were directly impacted by some of SMCGP’s coal power plants. The residents alleged harassment and intimidation by various individuals for them to give up their properties. In 2016, SMCGP proposed to construct and operate its Limay Power Station in Limay, Bataan. A portion of the power plant site was thereafter fenced off by private individuals who claimed to have sold the property, and people were prohibited from entering or accessing the crops they had planted in the area. The situation was the same in Sariaya, Quezon in 2018, after SMCGP proposed the construction of a circulating fluidized bed coal-fired power plant in the municipality. In Mariveles, Bataan, where SMC’s Mariveles coal-fired power plant units 1 to 4 will rise, residents found themselves ousted from the property they were living on, through rights, at the peak of the Covid-19 lockdowns by alleged landowners claiming the property had been sold. SMC’s mining business is also facing its fair share of opposition. Its Daguma Agro Minerals Inc., or DAMI, was granted a coal development and production operating contract in South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat by the Department of Energy back in 2002. The contract included the 17,000 hectares of collective land that the SMC mining companies planned to explore. San Miguel Energy Corp. acquired full ownership of DAMI, which was owned by a group headed by businessman Ben Guingona. DAMI has coal mines in South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat, in areas known for being rich in mineral deposits. DAMI’s projects in South Cotabato were opposed by environmental advocates, the local Catholic diocese, and the host communities, due to environmental and encroachment concerns. DAMI uses the strip mining method, a form of open-pit mining that is forbidden by South Cotabato’s 2010 environment code. The provincial board of South Cotabato rejected a resolution that would have endorsed DAMI’s mining operations since it violated South Cotabato’s ban on open-pit mining. The provincial board, however, moved to amend the code and lift the ban. Local officials are now under fire as they kept residents unaware of SMC’s tree-clearing operations. South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., in response, vetoed the lifting of the ban on open-pit mining. The classic sound bite of the company of leaving no one behind is hard to discern from the way SMC treats communities it considers as getting in the way of its massive projects. The post Dirty brew appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Singapore races to save ‘Garbage of Eden’
Visitors to the island hosting Singapore's only landfill might expect foul odors and swarms of flies, but instead, they are greeted with stunning views of blue waters, lush greenery, and wildlife. Welcome to Pulau Semakau, the land-scarce city's eco-friendly trash island, where ash from the incinerated garbage of its nearly six million people is dumped. With just over a decade to go until the site is projected to be filled, the government is in a race against time to extend the lifespan of the island landfill, so serene it has earned the moniker "Garbage of Eden". "This is the only landfill in Singapore, and due to the small area and the competing land needs, it is difficult to find another location," Desmond Lee, the landfill manager at the National Environment Agency (NEA), which oversees the island, tells AFP. "It is imperative that we continue to use the Semakau landfill for as long as possible, and if possible extend its life beyond 2035," he says. 'Massive waste' Singapore generated 7.4 million tonnes of waste last year, of which about 4.2 million tonnes, or 57 percent, were recycled. Plastics remain a sticking point for the island’s waste drive, with just 6 percent recycled last year. Food waste, of which 18 percent was recycled, also poses a problem. Environmental group Greenpeace criticized the city-state for producing a "massive" amount of waste for its size. In 2019, the government launched a "zero-waste" campaign seeking to boost the amount of recycled waste to 70 percent and slash the amount of trash dumped at Semakau by 30 percent before the end of the decade. Roughly the size of New York City, Singapore has carefully managed its rapid growth in recent decades to avoid the problems faced by other fast-developing Asian metropolises, such as overcrowding and undisposed garbage. The government built the offshore landfill after an inland waste depot began running out of space in the early 1990s. Engineers merged Semakau -- whose residents had earlier been resettled to the mainland -- with the nearby island of Pulau Sakeng. A seven-kilometer (four-mile) perimeter bund was constructed to enclose part of the open sea between the two islands and create space for the landfill, which began operating in 1999. Pollution risks With Singapore’s population growing steadily, authorities were forced to roll out bold, space-saving solutions. Incinerators were deployed to burn non-recyclable waste, before authorities shipped the ash to Semakau on a covered barge. But the practice of burning the rubbish has been criticized by environmental groups for its pollution. "The process results in pollution in each of its phases -- from waste hauling to managing air emissions and residues," Abigail Aguilar, Greenpeace's anti-plastics campaigner for Southeast Asia, told AFP. "While aesthetically it might be appealing, the landfill still contains waste that could potentially leak," said Aguilar. The NEA has said its incineration plants are fitted with treatment systems that clean the gas before they are released into the atmosphere. It added that the landfill had been lined with an impermeable membrane and marine clay to contain any potential pollution within the site, and the water is tested regularly for leakage. Eco island There could still be more use for Singapore's garbage island, with plans to build solar farms and also to turn ash from the landfill into road construction materials. After the barge docks on Semakau, earthmovers scoop the ash and load them onto giant yellow tipper trucks for the trip to the landfill, which has been subdivided into sections. As each pit is progressively filled up over the years, the area is covered with soil, allowing for the growth of natural vegetation. Mangrove forests have also been planted, making the island verdant and attracting wildlife. During a recent visit by an AFP team, a couple of brahminy kites were seen swooping down on the water to catch fish, while a white-bellied sea eagle circled above. Red-wattled lapwings made bird calls on the edge of a mangrove patch and little terns maneuvered above a filled-up pit. A family of grebes swam on a pond, its dike lined with coconut trees. The post Singapore races to save ‘Garbage of Eden’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos accepts resignation of 18 PNP Third-Level Officers
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday accepted the resignation of eighteen Third-Level Officers of the Philippine National Police allegedly involved in illegal drug activities. Marcos made the move after he said in his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday at the Batasang Pambansa, where he said he would be accepting the resignation of “unscrupulous law enforcers and others involved in the highly nefarious drug trade.” In a letter to the President, PNP Chief Benjamin Acorda Jr. told Marcos that the Ad Hoc Advisory Group thoroughly investigated the alleged involvement of 953 Third Level Officers in illegal drug activities. The said officers have tendered their courtesy resignation pending the investigation. Of the 953, the Group recommended the non-acceptance of 935 courtesy resignations and the acceptance of the resignation of the following eighteen (18) officers: 1. PBGEN Remus Balingasa Medina O-10038 2. PBGEN Randy Quines Peralta O-05124 3. PBGEN Pablo Gacayan Labra II O-03734 4. PCOL Rogarth Bulalacao Campo O-08477 5. PCOL Rommel Javier Ochave O-08085 6. PCOL Rommel Allaga Velasco O-08084 7. PCOL Robin King Sarmiento O-03552 8. PCOL Fernando Reyes Ortega O-07478 9. PCOL Rex Ordoño Derilo O-10549 10. PCOL Julian Tesorero Olonan O-12395 11. PCOL Rolando Tapon Portera O-07520 12. PCOL Lawrence Bonifacio Cajipe O-12905 13. PCOL Dario Milagrosa Menor O-07757 14. PCOL Joel Kagayed Tampis O-08180 15. PCOL Michael Arcillas David O-07686 16. PCOL Igmedio Belonio Bernaldez O-12544 17. PCOL Rodolfo Calope Albotra Jr O-08061 18. PCOL Marvin Barba Sanchez O-08043 According to the PNP Chief, the officials are continuously being monitored. He also said that the necessary “orders for their relief from their present positions will be immediately issued and the (resigned) officers will be assigned to the Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit, DPRM (Directorate for Personnel and Records Management) to preclude them from exerting further influence and/or performing illegal activities using their positions.” At the start of his administration, President Marcos vowed “to clean up the ranks of the PNP, saying that the drug problem would not exist without the involvement of police officials.” In his SONA, the President also said that he would thereafter appoint individuals with unquestionable integrity to lead the government’s campaign against illegal drugs as he emphasized that his administration is putting “a new face” to the campaign. "In their stead, we will install individuals with unquestionable integrity, who will be effective and trustworthy in handling the task of eliminating thi The post Marcos accepts resignation of 18 PNP Third-Level Officers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Skin care must-haves
Lush surprises for movie fans The fresh handmade cosmetics company Lush recently released an exclusive product collection after the success of Nintendo+ Illumination’s animated action comedy The Super Mario Bros. Movie, featuring a Princess Peach body spray, Mario and Luigi shower gels and a first-of-its-kind ‘surprise’ mystery Question Block bath bomb with power-up soaps hidden inside. Exclusively available in Lush stores, on the Lush app and online at Lush.com.ph, the Lush X The Super Mario Bros. Movie collection gives fans the chance to get their hands on a limited-edition eight-piece range based on some of the most popular characters from The Super Mario Bros. Movie. The first product of its kind, that Lush has never created before is the Question Block bath bomb with a hidden collectible power-up soap inside, each with its own unique fragrance and color. There are six to choose from — mischievous mushrooms to the elusive and exclusive gold star. Vitamin E still hydration winner An icon since the 70s, The Body Shop’s Vitamin E range remains a hydration hero, filled with skin-loving ingredients suitable for every skin type, tone and texture. Today, it remains a cross-generational hero as its full range has a bit of a make-over. Get started with the Vitamin E Gentle Face Wash and Vitamin E Cream Cleanser. Then use the Body Shop Vitamin E Gentle Facial Wash which is perfect for daily cleansing, leaving your skin feeling clean, soft and refreshed. The Vitamin E Moisturising Toner is the perfect post-cleanse partner that sweeps up any lingering impurities. Lastly, the Vitamin E Moisture Day and Night Creams have an iconic formula that will boost skin’s hydration by 38 percent for eight hours. Healthy skin is radiant Cetaphil, a renowned skincare brand, launched its Global Skin Awareness Month campaign for the second year. This campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of proper skincare and provide dermatologist-approved solutions to individuals with sensitive skin. For individuals with sensitive and dry skin, Gentle Skin Cleanser is clinically proven to provide continuous hydration to protect skin against dryness, while Moisturizing Lotion is clinically proven to soothe and provide lasting 48-hour hydration instantly. For dull and uneven skin tone, the Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance line is recommended for consumers experiencing hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. The Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance line is clinically proven to visibly brighten skin without causing damage to the skin barrier. It is specifically designed for sensitive skin and is a proven regimen to diminish the appearance of dark spots and improve skin’s radiance in just as early as 14 days. The post Skin care must-haves appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Muntinlupa launches ‘Make Your City Proud’ campaign
The local government of Muntinlupa City is calling for volunteers to help clean up waterways and plant trees as it promised exciting rewards for those who heed the call with the launching of the “Make Your City Proud” program. The MYCP is a volunteer program that aims to address social issues such as environmental awareness through volunteerism and camaraderie among Muntinlupeños. “Through this initiative, we aim to harness the synergy between the local government, the private sector, and citizen volunteers to achieve bigger goals together, instead of on our own,” Mayor Ruffy Biazon said. The synergy that makes MYCP different from previous volunteer programs is the perks and incentives offered by partners in the private sector. By participating in each activity, volunteers can earn and accumulate points that they can redeem for rewards in partner merchants such as Jollibee, Pancake House, Max’s Restaurant, Kenny Rogers Roasters, Seattle’s Best Coffee, and Art Fresh Chicken Corporation. On 5 June, the MYCP will kick off the month’s activities with a cleanup drive at Bayanan Baywalk. The volunteers will then return on 24 June to plant trees, bougainvillea and palmera at the Bayanan Baywalk as well as at Weidmann, Putatan, followed by a river cleanup drive along the Alabang-Cupang River on 25 June. The post Muntinlupa launches ‘Make Your City Proud’ campaign appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
45 years of generating indigenous, renewable energy
Aboitiz Power Corporation’s subsidiary Hedcor Inc. marked on 25 May 2023 its 45th anniversary. Since 1978, Hedcor has harnessed indigenous and renewable sources of energy for businesses and communities. In the process, it has become one of the country’s top renewable energy companies, specializing in generating electricity from run-of-river hydropower systems. To date, Hedcor has 22 hydropower facilities in Luzon and Mindanao and a solar farm in the Visayas. These 22 hydropower plants — with a cumulative installed capacity of over 280 megawatts — are spread out in Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, Benguet, Davao City, Davao del Sur and Bukidnon. [caption id="attachment_137854" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Ampohaw Hydro in Sablan, Benguet is one of 22 run-of-river hydropower facilities by Hedcor. It is also its first automated plant, having undergone automation in 1997.[/caption] Since 2021, Hedcor has also operated San Carlos Sun Power Inc. in Negros Occidental with a peak capacity of 59-MW. Hedcor aspires to become the largest RE asset manager in the country and in the ASEAN region by growing its clean energy facilities to at least 40 by 2030. This includes more hydro and solar, as well as having wind power plants. In 2022, Hedcor launched the country’s first National Operations Control Center, which allows for the operation, monitoring and control of 21 Hedcor run-of-river plants and SacaSun all in one location. This results in more efficient operations with less chance of technical errors through centralized real-time data monitoring and analysis, operation and control of equipment, management of the alarm system, and delivery of notifications and plant operation reports. “To remain competitive, we optimize our current assets, people and resources. Adopting new technologies will ensure efficiency, helping to implement operational excellence strategies necessary for future business growth,” Hedcor president and chief operating officer Rolando Pacquiao said. Hedcor also celebrates the rich culture and tradition of the indigenous peoples groups in the communities it operates in. Earlier this year, Hedcor helped renovate the tribal halls of IPs in the province of Bukidnon. It also turned over P10 million worth of infrastructure to IPs in La Trinidad, Benguet. Both projects support the IP groups’ need for venues to host tribe gatherings and meetings, among many other functions. “We know that we are only as strong as the bond we have with our community. We draw our strength from the homes and businesses we’ve sustained with the energy we provide,” Pacquiao said. Since 2000, Hedcor has also planted over 3.5 million trees with an 85 percent survival rate. Moreover, the company is now on its fifth consecutive year of implementing the #NoToSingleUsePlastics campaign, banning the use of single-use plastics in all company events. Segregation and recycling are also observed within Hedcor’s premises. “Building on its 45 years of experience and now as part of the Aboitiz Techglomerate, Hedcor will continue to be integral in AboitizPower’s efforts to service the country’s growing need for sustainable, affordable and reliable electricity,” said AboitizPower president and CEO Emmanuel Rubio. “As the Philippines sets its sights to integrate 35 percent and 50 percent RE in its energy mix by 2030 and 2040, respectively, AboitizPower and Hedcor support it by growing its own diverse clean energy portfolio and investments in innovation and technology,” he added. The post 45 years of generating indigenous, renewable energy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Make a difference in a child’s life
Mariel, aged 10, plays under the hot sun beside a dilapidated hut, which has served as her respite throughout the pandemic. She shares this home with her mother and seven siblings. While she should be at school, she’s happily playing with other children, distracted from the fact that for many of them, their last meal was yesterday afternoon. You can make a difference in a child’s life. World Vision, the child-focused humanitarian organization, goes beyond inspiring generous hearts and mobilizes them to make an impactful change through its global child sponsorship campaign called Reasons. “My reason is that I want to create a space where children can learn to respect the dignity of every single person,” shares World Vision ambassador and social media influencer Janina Vela. “It seems simple, but it’s very rare to find that compassion in this day and age. I think working with World Vision — who extends this kindness to children — will help us raise compassionate kids and adults. And hopefully, when they raise their own families, they will teach this same value and set off a domino effect of building compassionate generations.” Register online and donate for as low as P25 a day or P750 a month. World Vision in the Philippines — through the support of generous individuals and like-minded groups, churches, schools and companies — has been protecting children for over six decades. Through its diverse programs, which include food, education, health and nutrition, livelihood and development, over 39.2 million children, 5.8 million of whom are living in vulnerable conditions are supported. “What does it take to affect change in our communities? World Vision offers opportunities to help protect children from violence, provide them access to education, food and clean water, and ensure that they are given the right guidance for a safe, healthy and secure future. Many of us have prayed for a way to make a difference, and now, here’s how you can make a direct impact,” says Rommel V. Fuerte, executive director of World Vision in the Philippines. “You can be the hope that many have prayed for. Get involved today.” For every child you help, four more children benefit, too. Become a proud sponsor at bit.ly/3HKLJD2. Read more about World Vision’s initiatives at www.worldvision.org.ph. The post Make a difference in a child’s life appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Kuya Bong wants ‘iron hand’ vs druggie cops
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go emphasized Wednesday the need to establish an “iron-hand” mechanism against cops found involved in illegal drug trade activities. In an interview with reporters, Go lamented the need to impose stricter management of law enforcement operations so that the gains of the war on drugs campaign by the past administration of President Rodrigo Duterte “will not be put to waste.” “We really need to apply iron-hand to these policemen. They really need to be scared,” Go said, adding that once the illegal drug activities will proliferate anew, corruption and criminalities will follow. “The fear like before has gone. I am in awe of what President Duterte started when he fight illegal drugs in the country,” he added. The lawmaker also stressed that he is saddened that those cops that are involved in illegal activities are just putting a stain on to “clean reputation” built by the forefathers of the Philippine National Police. Go was referring to the initial results of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs’ ongoing probe on the arrest of Police Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo Jr. for sneaking portion of P6.7 billion of “shabu” that was hauled in October last year — incriminating massive PNP cover-up of the case. He then urged the National Police Commission to immediately file criminal cases against those cops that have links to illegal drug syndicates as he expressed full support to the eagerness of committee chairman Senator Ronald de la Rosa “to really determine the source of this big-time shabu.” While he commends the current administration’s fight against illegal drugs, Go said there is a need to put extra effort to sow fear against criminals, particularly those cops that are part of syndicates. Meantime, the senator also pushed for the institutionalization of the Shared Service Facilities project under the Department of Trade and Industry as the Senate approved on the third and final reading Senate Bill 2021 seeking to amend Republic Act 6977 or the Magna Carta for Small Enterprises as amended by RA 9501, otherwise known as the Magna Carta for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. “As a nation, we must recognize the immense potential and significance of these enterprises in driving our economy forward, creating jobs, and uplifting the lives of our people,” Go said. “MSMEs form the backbone of our economy, comprising a significant portion of our business landscape. They are the engines of innovation, providing employment opportunities, and contributing to the overall socio-economic progress of our communities,” he added. The post Kuya Bong wants ‘iron hand’ vs druggie cops appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go wants ‘iron hand’ vs. cops linked to illegal drug trade
Senator Bong Go emphasized on Wednesday the need to establish an “iron-hand” mechanism against cops found involved in illegal drug trade activities. In an interview with reporters, Go lamented the need to impose stricter management of law enforcement operations so that the gains of the war on drugs campaign by the past administration of President Rodrigo Duterte “will not be put to waste.” “Kailangan talaga, itong mga kapulisan, medyo kamay na bakal ang kailangang pairalin para sa kanila. Kailangang takutin talaga ang mga ‘to,” he said. Once the illegal drug activities will proliferate anew, Go said corruption and criminalities will follow. “Wala na po young takot gaya noon. Ako po’y nasasayangan sa inumpisahan ni Pangulong Duterte, noong nilabanan niya ang droga sa bansa,” he added. Go is saddened that those cops that are involved in illegal activities are just putting a stain on to ‘clean reputation’ built by the forefathers of the Philippine National Police. He was referring to the initial results of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs’ ongoing probe on the arrest of Police Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo Jr. for sneaking portion of P6.7-billion of ‘shabu’ that was hauled in October last year—incriminating massive PNP cover-up of the case. Go then urged the National Police Commission to immediately file criminal cases against those cops that have links to illegal drug syndicates. The senator expressed full support to the eagerness of committee chairman Senator Ronald Dela Rosa “to really determine the source of this big-time shabu.” While he commends the current administration's fight against illegal drugs, Go said there is a need to put extra effort to sow fear against criminals, particularly those cops that are part of syndicates. "Medyo tapangan lang natin ng konti," he said. The post Bong Go wants ‘iron hand’ vs. cops linked to illegal drug trade appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go wants ‘iron hand’ vs cops linked to illegal drug trade
Senator Bong Go emphasized on Wednesday the need to establish an “iron-hand” mechanism against cops found involved in illegal drug trade activities. In an interview with reporters, Go lamented the need to impose stricter management of law enforcement operations so that the gains of the war on drugs campaign by the past administration of President Rodrigo Duterte “will not be put to waste.” “Kailangan talaga, itong mga kapulisan, medyo kamay na bakal ang kailangang pairalin para sa kanila. Kailangang takutin talaga ang mga ‘to,” he said. Once the illegal drug activities will proliferate anew, Go said corruption and criminalities will follow. “Wala na po young takot gaya noon. Ako po’y nasasayangan sa inumpisahan ni Pangulong Duterte, noong nilabanan niya ang droga sa bansa,” he added. Go is saddened that those cops that are involved in illegal activities are just putting a stain on to ‘clean reputation’ built by the forefathers of the Philippine National Police. He was referring to the initial results of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs’ ongoing probe on the arrest of Police Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo Jr. for sneaking portion of P6.7-billion of ‘shabu’ that was hauled in October last year—incriminating massive PNP cover-up of the case. Go then urged the National Police Commission to immediately file criminal cases against those cops that have links to illegal drug syndicates. The senator expressed full support to the eagerness of committee chairman Senator Ronald Dela Rosa “to really determine the source of this big-time shabu.” While he commends the current administration's fight against illegal drugs, Go said there is a need to put extra effort to sow fear against criminals, particularly those cops that are part of syndicates. "Medyo tapangan lang natin ng konti," he said. The post Bong Go wants ‘iron hand’ vs cops linked to illegal drug trade appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Two climbers die on Everest, toll reaches seven
Two more climbers have died on Everest, expedition organisers said Thursday, bringing the number of deaths on the world's highest peak this spring climbing season to seven. The latest fatalities were a 58-year-old Indian woman who said before her expedition that she had a pacemaker, and a Nepali member of a team clearing trash from the mountain. Suzanne Leopoldina Jesus died at a hospital in the Nepal town of Lukla after the Indian mountaineer was airlifted from base camp due to illness. "We brought the Indian climber to Lukla from the base camp in a helicopter on Wednesday as she was sick and could not climb," Da Dendi Sherpa, managing director at Glacier Himalaya Treks and Expedition, told AFP. Jesus had raised funds for her climb with the slogan, "Everest expedition and back on a pacemaker, at the age of 58". The primary school teacher aimed to be Asia's first person on a pacemaker and the oldest Indian to climb Everest, the Himalayan Times reported. "We tried to send her to Kathmandu. But due to the bad weather conditions, the helicopter could not fly to Kathmandu. She was admitted to a local hospital in Lukla where she died this morning," Sherpa said. In the other death, a Nepali trash collector died on Tuesday while descending. He was part of an annual mountain clean-up campaign by Nepal's army. "Work is underway to bring his body back," Pasang Sherpa from expedition company Peak Promotion told AFP. Nepal has issued 478 permits for Everest to foreign climbers this season, which runs until early June. Since most will need a guide, more than 900 people in total will try to summit. On Wednesday, a Moldovan climber died at Camp Four en route to the top. Three Nepali climbers perished last month when a block of glacial ice fell and swept them into a crevasse as they were crossing the treacherous Khumbu icefall on a supply mission. A 69-year-old US mountaineer also died this month during an acclimatisation rotation at an altitude of around 6,400 metres (21,000 feet). On average, around five climbers die every spring climbing season on Everest. But in 2019, 11 people died, with four of the deaths blamed on overcrowding on the mountain. str/pm/stu/axn © Agence France-Presse Add to cart Print Download Share this document Copy the content The post Two climbers die on Everest, toll reaches seven appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»