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US commerce secretary meets Chinese counterpart in Beijing
US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo met with her Chinese counterpart in Beijing on Monday, saying it was "profoundly important" for the world's two biggest economies to have a stable relationship. Her visit is the latest in a series of high-level trips to China by US officials in recent months as Washington works to cool trade tensions with Beijing. The trips could culminate in a meeting between their leaders, with US President Joe Biden saying recently that he was expecting to sit down with China's Xi Jinping this year. Raimondo met on Monday morning with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, describing the economic relationship between the two countries as "the most significant in the world". "We share $700 billion dollars of trade and I concur with you that it is profoundly important that we have a stable economic relationship," she said, according to a readout from the US Commerce Department. "It's a complicated relationship; it's a challenging relationship," she told Wang. "We will of course disagree on certain issues, but I believe we can make progress if we are direct, open, and practical." Raimondo arrived in Beijing on Sunday and was met by Lin Feng, the director of the commerce ministry's Americas and Oceania department, as well as US ambassador to China Nicholas Burns. In posts on the social media platform X, Raimondo said she was "looking forward to a productive few days". During her trip, she will also travel to China's economic powerhouse Shanghai, the US Commerce Department said. She will leave on Wednesday. Trade tensions Relations between the United States and China have plummeted to some of their lowest levels in decades, with US trade curbs near the top of the laundry list of disagreements. Washington says they are crucial to safeguarding national security, but China sees them as seeking to curb its economic rise. This month, Biden issued an executive order aimed at restricting certain US investments in sensitive high-tech areas in China -- a move Beijing blasted as being "anti-globalisation". The long-anticipated rules, expected to be implemented next year, target sectors such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen sought to reassure Chinese officials about the expected curbs during a visit to Beijing last month, promising that any new moves would be implemented in a transparent way. And Raimondo on Monday told Chinese officials that while there was "no room to compromise or negotiate" on US national security, "the vast majority of our trade and investment relationship does not involve national security concerns". "We believe a strong Chinese economy is a good thing," she said. In June, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken travelled to Beijing, where he met Xi and said progress had been made on a number of key sources of contention. US climate envoy John Kerry also visited China in July. But none of the visits led to major breakthroughs, and a recent Camp David summit between the United States, South Korea and Japan aimed in part at countering China sparked condemnation from Beijing. Following that summit, Biden said he still expected to meet Xi this year. The US president is inviting the Chinese leader to San Francisco in November, when the United States holds a summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, which includes China. They could also potentially meet next month in New Delhi on the sidelines of a G20 summit. The post US commerce secretary meets Chinese counterpart in Beijing appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Govt preps for new amnesty package
The government is now preparing a “new amnesty package” for non-State armed groups to bring them into mainstream society, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said, stressing that it would be a “landmark move” towards peace and development for the country. Bersamin likewise noted that the amnesty program was in the works following the announcement of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. during his State of the Nation Address when he sought concurrence for the initiative. "In a landmark move toward reconciliation and reintegration, the Philippine government shall soon establish a new amnesty package that would allow members of non-State armed groups to relinquish their arms and return to society," Bersamin said in his message, which was delivered by Undersecretary Severo Catura, during the International Humanitarian Law Day on Saturday. The Executive Secretary said the amnesty program would provide a "dignified pathway" for the former combatants to rebuild their lives, become productive, and contribute to society's progress. "More importantly, this initiative shall be a bold step toward ending the vicious cycle of violence, and fostering a culture of forgiveness and unity that promotes national healing," he added. Bersamin said the Marcos administration's move to institutionalize a program to encourage the rebels to return to the fold of the law shows its adherence to international humanitarian laws, which promotes peace and sustainable development. The Philippines embraces IHL as a cornerstone for human rights advocacy in the midst of such challenging circumstances, Bersamin emphasized. "In its adherence to IHL, the State acknowledges its duty to protect civilian populations and non-combatants from harm at all times, and to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those in need. This commitment lays the groundwork for a safer environment where human rights are respected, and innocent lives are safeguarded,” he added, assuring that Marcos administration would continue to observe genuine consultations and listen to affected communities to know their needs. "These consultations empower local voices and promote socio-economic development in marginalized communities, acting as deterrents against the allure of extremist ideologies," Bersamin said. The post Govt preps for new amnesty package appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Clarkson pumps up Gilas
Jordan Clarkson’s imposing presence has generated electricity in the Gilas Pilipinas camp, challenging the Nationals to shoot for higher standards themselves......»»
Sports camp season
Summer is the most expensive, challenging season for parents......»»
BATO DARES ICC ‘I am here, arrest me!’
By: Ann JEnireene Gomez and Alvin Murcia With GLEN JACOB JOSE, Tiziana Celine Piatos AND JOM GARNER, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa warned of “big trouble” if the International Criminal Court comes to the Philippines to arrest him or anyone else. “I already expected that, their insistence on meddling in our domestic affairs. Let them, let them do what they want,” Dela Rosa said in Filipino in an interview with Frontline Tonight. “I’ll be here, I am not hiding. If they have a warrant of arrest, let them serve the warrant,” Dela Rosa said, with one caveat — that he’ll only allow himself to be arrested by Philippine authorities and not by any foreigner ordered to do so by the ICC. Dela Rosa was responding to a statement of Senate President Miguel Zubiri that the government will have no choice but to turn over anyone to the ICC if the arrest warrant will be coursed through local courts and will be served by local authorities. “We are still a sovereign country, and they (accused) are still citizens of this country. They do that with many other countries. However, the danger there is if Senator Bato dela Rosa goes to a country that is friendly to the ICC, then they will arrest him. Here in the Philippines, the process is they must coordinate with the local courts,” Zubiri said. The ICC’s Appeals Chamber voted 3-2 on Tuesday to deny the Philippines’ appeal to stop the ICC Office of the Prosecutor from resuming its investigation. “There’s no problem if the Philippine government would be the one to arrest me, but not the foreigners,” he said. “If it’s the government of the Philippines that would decide to arrest me, what can I do? But if they (ICC) would come here to take me, our government would have none of that.” “There’s going to be big trouble if they would insist on coming here against our government’s expressed will. That would be too blatant an interference and they would be treating us like fools,” he added. Chill Meanwhile, Senator Francis Tolentino, who offered to stand as legal counsel for a fellow lawmaker in the ICC probe, advised Dela Rosa to “Just chill”. “I accept the proposal of Sen. Dela Rosa to a lawyer for him. I am now speaking as the counsel for Senator Dela Rosa,” said Tolentino, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, in an online press conference yesterday. He said nothing has changed in the Philippines’ position on the dismissal of the ICC Pre-Chamber in the country’s appeal regarding the probe of the “war on drugs.” The ICC, he added, has no jurisdiction in the Philippines. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Wednesday advised former president Rodrigo Duterte and Dela Rosa to stay away from countries where the ICC has influence. Dela Rosa is accused of implementing the alleged iron-fist policy of Duterte as a Davao regional police official and later as Duterte’s first Philippine National Police chief in 2016. “They are citizens of the republic who also need our protection,” Remulla said, adding that Duterte and Dela Rosa should refrain from going to countries in Europe. Why Sara? But even before Remulla came out with his advice, Dela Rosa had already said he would not deliver himself to the ICC. “I will make sure not to go to those countries that are friendly with the ICC,” he said. He also brushed aside efforts to involve Vice President Sara Duterte in the ICC probe, calling the move politically motivated against one who could become the country’s next president. He reiterated that the Vice President’s name was never mentioned in proceedings that looked into the alleged activities of the so-called Davao Death Squad. On Wednesday, the Department of Justice maintained that the ICC has no jurisdiction to investigate the extrajudicial killings allegedly committed during the Duterte administration’s so-called war on drugs. The DoJ expressed deep disappointment and strong disagreement with the denial by the ICC of the Office of the Solicitor General’s appeal to stop the probe on account of the Philippines having withdrawn from the ICC, and its having a fully functioning justice system. It said the rejection of the appeal was based on the ICC’s flawed interpretation of its jurisdiction as a court of last resort — that it could only assume jurisdiction when a member country showed it was not capable of investigating and prosecuting crimes within its borders. The DoJ pointed out that the principle of complementarity, enshrined in the Rome Statute that created the ICC, recognizes the jurisdiction of local courts to try crimes within their respective countries. “The dissenting opinions of two esteemed justices out of the five-judge panel highlight the grave errors in the majority decision,” the DoJ said in a statement. “These dissenting justices rightly recognized the Philippines’ commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining an independent and effective legal system.” “Their dissenting opinions underscore the existence of a legitimate difference of legal interpretation, casting doubt on the majority’s ruling,” it added. Remulla had lambasted the ICC for meddling in Philippine affairs and said the government would not honor any arrest warrant issued by the ICC. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his predecessor, Duterte, had been firm in saying the ICC had no jurisdiction over events that transpired in the Philippines. PNP no ICC lackey Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police said it would not be dictated to by the ICC as it recognizes the stance of the government that the international tribunal has no jurisdiction over the conduct of the drug war probe. “The PNP is under the executive department and we will follow the lead of the national government that there is a question with respect to sovereignty and jurisdiction of the ICC,” PNP spokesperson P/Col. Jean Fajardo said. Duterte, as Davao City mayor from 2011 to 2016 and as the country’s president from 2016 to 2022, is seen as the ICC prosecutor’s primary target, along with his former police chief, Dela Rosa. Government data showed that about 6,200 people died in “legitimate” anti-drug operations during the Duterte presidency, including law enforcement officers killed in action. Government critics claim as many as 15,000 to 30,000 were killed. Meanwhile, Vice President Duterte appeared to have been included in the complaints filed with the ICC prosecutor, along with her father’s long-time aide, the now Senator Christopher “Bong” Go. “No comment,” was the terse reply of the Vice President’s camp on her alleged inclusion in the ICC complaints. Go, on the other hand, said the ICC had no “business meddling in our internal affairs, where our courts remain fully functional and free from political interference.” “Probes into the war on drugs are presently being conducted by the competent authorities. Filipinos should be judged by fellow Filipinos before Philippine courts operating under Philippine laws,” Go said. With the ICC ruling, the DoJ vowed to continue to defend the sovereignty and integrity of the nation’s legal system and strongly urged the ICC to reconsider its decision and recognize the Philippines’ unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the pursuit of justice. “Furthermore, we would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our commitment to the well-being and support of all victims affected by the drug war,” Remulla’s department said. “The DoJ, in collaboration with other relevant agencies, is willing and able to assist those who had suffered harm or loss during this challenging period. We encourage all individuals with evidence and witnesses to come forward and share their testimonies with us,” it added. Former president Duterte, through his former spokesperson Harry Roque, shrugged off the ICC decision. In a Facebook post, Roque said Duterte has always maintained that as an independent and sovereign state, only Philippine courts can try any crime committed in Philippine territory. “He has time and again said that because of this, he will face all his accusers anytime but before Philippine courts and before Filipino judges only,” Roque said. In a television interview, Zubiri said the upper chamber would “not give up” Dela Rosa should the ICC issue a warrant of arrest against the latter. “Without the local warrant of arrest issued by the courts, then as far as I’m concerned, he is still a working member of the Senate and accorded of course that respect, similar to Senator De Lima and Senator [Antonio] Trillanes,” he said. “Only when the warrant of arrest was issued, then we allowed or we agreed that he may be taken in custody,” he added. The post BATO DARES ICC ‘I am here, arrest me!’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SAF at 40: Staying true to mandate
The Philippine National Police Special Action Force celebrated its 40th founding anniversary last Wednesday, 17 May, at the NCRPO Grandstand in Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, Taguig City. PNP spokesperson Gen. Brig. Redrico Maranan, in a statement Thursday, said this year’s celebration, “40 Years of Excellence and Professionalism in Serving God, Country, and People,” aptly acknowledges the SAF’s significant milestones and achievements since its inception. PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. served as the guest of honor and speaker. Former SAF directors, high-ranking officials from the police and military services, government officials, and other distinguished guests attended the annual celebration. Acorda highlighted the SAF’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of service and staying true to its mandate in protecting the nation against terrorism, lawlessness, and insurgency. “The SAF is the police force’s elite unit, in charge of counter-terrorism, high-risk law enforcement, and special operations. It is a challenging task that demands extraordinary courage, skill, and dedication from each SAF member. And over the years, SAF has proven to be a highly effective and efficient force in carrying out its mission. Indeed, SAF has grown to become one of the most respected and admired special force units not only in the Philippines but also around the world,” Acorda said. “By skills and virtue, we triumph,” encapsulating the values and principles that guide SAF members as they fulfill their sacred mandate,” he added. Acorda also acknowledged the exceptional courage, skill, and dedication exhibited by SAF personnel, honed through years of training and experience, which enable them to triumph over the most challenging situations. Acorda emphasized the importance of complying with the principles of International Humanitarian Law during armed conflicts. “As law enforcement officers, we have a duty to respect and protect human rights, even in the most challenging and dangerous situations. This means ensuring that the rights of civilians are protected at all times, and that all actions are carried out in accordance with the principles of necessity, proportionality and distinction, among others. As members of SAF, it is our duty to ensure that our actions do not cause unnecessary harm to innocent civilians,” he added The post SAF at 40: Staying true to mandate appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New DCPO chief to focus on personnel morale, asset optimization
THE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) bid farewell to PCol. Alberto Lupaz and welcomed its new City Director, PCol. Richard Bad-ang, in a turn-over ceremony at the Camp Captain Domingo E. Leonor on March 22......»»
2 Best Ways to Save Up for Something
Sometimes, you find yourself unable to afford something you desire. While resorting to debt might seem convenient, it’s far from ideal. Saving money is a superior alternative, albeit challenging. Often, the struggle lies in maintaining savings, as funds intended for one purpose end up diverted elsewhere. We’re all familiar with the difficulty of saving money. […].....»»
Año urges rebels to surrender, avail themselves of amnesty program
Año urges rebels to surrender, avail themselves of amnesty program.....»»
Marcos, First Lady Liza have made full recovery from flu-like symptoms, says Palace
President Marcos 'has been in meetings today and will resume his public duties tomorrow,' Malacañang says on Monday, March 25.....»»
Austria leads Grumpy Joe to CJHGC Corporate Cup triumph
Jonar Austria recorded a consecutive 54 points to anchor Grumpy Joe to victory in Group 1 at the close of the 18th Corporate Cup at Camp John Hay Golf Club here Friday......»»
Princess Kate praised for ‘extraordinary dignity’ after cancer diagnosis
LONDON – Kate, Britain’s Princess of Wales, and her husband Prince William have been “enormously touched” by the messages of support received since she announced her cancer diagnosis, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said on Saturday. Kate said on Friday she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy after tests done following her major abdominal surgery in January revealed cancer had.....»»
‘Quiboloy warrant stands despite SMNI franchise revocation’
Despite the revocation of the franchise of Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), the arrest warrant issued against pastor Apollo Quiboloy by the House of Representatives committee on legislative franchises still stands......»»
King Charles, leaders offer support to Princess of Wales after cancer announcement
LONDON — Britain’s King Charles, political leaders, and the US White House offered support to Kate, Princess of Wales, after she said tests following abdominal surgery showed cancer had been present and she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy. Buckingham Palace, on behalf of Britain’s King Charles “His Majesty (HM) is ‘so proud of Catherine for her.....»»
Senate concurrence needed to revoke SMNI franchise’
The revocation of the legislative franchise of Sonshine Media Network Inc. by the House of Representatives would have to be approved by the Senate first before it can take effect – in accordance with the usual legislative route, lawmakers said yesterday......»»
Andrea pinayuhan ni Lolit, mag-explore sa mas challenging roles
NAGBIGAY ng payo ang talent manager at showbiz columnist na si Lolit Solis sa Kapamilya actress na si Andrea Brillantes. Sa kanyang Instagram page ay ibinandera niya ang kanyang birthday wishes sa isa sa mga artistang talaga namang pinag-uusapan sa mundo ng showbiz. “Salve birthday pala ng favorite kong star na si Andrea Brillantes. Imagine.....»»
P7.2M worth of dried cannabis seized from local supplier along Kennon Road
At least P7.2M worth of dried cannabis leaves and stalks packed in a cylindrical packaging was seized in a sting operation against a local drug trader along Camp 4, Kennon Road in Tuba, Benguet on Wednesday morning......»»
Three-peat seeking FH trails by 5 in Corporate Cup golf tourney
Jonar Austria fired 54 points, Oscar Gallo contributed 45 and Von Vargas added 42 as Grumpy Joe zoomed to a five-point lead over defending champion Forest Hills-Megafiber in Group 1 of the 18th Camp John Hay Corporate Cup......»»
ICTSI Palos Verdes golf tilt: Go, Ramos sizzle with 67s for opening-day lead
Under the scorching midday sun, Lloyd Go teed off with confidence, carding a solid five-under 67 in challenging, breezy conditions to catch Sean Ramos at the helm, one stroke ahead of Ira Alido at the start of the ICTSI Palos Verdes Championship......»»
Corporate Cup golf: BCM, Perfect Drive mount early leads
Karl Flores scored 46 points while Gerry Aguado and Arnel Panganiban added 44 and 42 to lift BCM Balayan to a commanding lead in Group 4 after the first round of the 18th Corporate Cup held at the Camp John Hay Golf Club......»»