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54 buses to offset LRT-1 shutdown for Cavite extension, Holy Week
The Department of Transportation will be deploying passenger buses starting Wednesday to offset the shutdown of LRT-1 operations during the Holy Week and in preparation for the opening of five new stations this year......»»
Early Holy Week
If soul searching, repentance and making your relationship right with your Creator are things you do on Holy Week, all came early for me this year. And now, it feels like I have been given a second chance at life......»»
Relasyon nina Cristine at Marco nagsimula sa pagwo-workout: Na-develop!
PINAG-ISIPANG mabuti ng aktres at celebrity mom na si Cristine Reyes bago sagutin at makipagrelasyon kay Marco Gumabao. Naging isa sa mga consideration ng award-wining actress ang limang taong agwat ng edad nila ng binata – 35 na siya ngayon habang turning 30 na this year si Marco. Halos isang taon na ngayon ang nakararaan.....»»
Cops on heightened alert, NLEX ready for Lenten break
Police units across the country are on heightened alert starting tomorrow, as part of security preparations for the safety of the public during the Holy Week break......»»
AboitizPower utilities score tech win for A.I. use
An artificial intelligence-enabled software developed by Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) distribution utilities Davao Light and Power Co. Inc. (Davao Light) and Visayan Electric Company Inc. (Visayan Electric) with Aboitiz Data Innovation Pte. Ltd. gained recognition for helping advance technology and digital transformation in the utilities industry. ADI was awarded the Philippines Technology Excellence Award for A.I. — Utilities in the Asian Technology Excellence Awards 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand for Project A.I. CU (“I see you”), a homegrown idea that began in Davao Light. The project utilizes A.I. to optically scan images of electrical installation components — like those mounted on electrical poles — and check if these align with the records of a distribution utility. After a series of pilot tests in Davao Light, the software was able to identify and tag the asset by its individual and unique compatible unit number which was manually assigned to it beforehand. Each CU represents a grouping of electrical items that a certain electrical asset is composed of. Grouping materials and categorizing assets makes it easier for distribution utilities to identify its infrastructure. Overall, verifying the accuracy of records ensures regulatory compliance, better asset management, operational efficiency, and the continued trust that a distribution utility can deliver justified and cost-effective electricity prices in its franchise area. Reduce manpower The use of A.I. to recognize CUs can also significantly reduce the need for manpower and rendered work hours, allowing team members to dedicate time and effort in other activities. Typically, trained engineers are sent to each electrical installation and visually identify each item installed. “The inspiration for Project A.I. CU goes beyond streamlining asset verification. This initiative serves as a window into how we are leveraging artificial intelligence to transform our operations, making them more efficient and smarter,” said Davao Light Meter Shop Supervisor Mark Anthony Catalan, adding that the idea for Project A.I. CU began in 2019 and was proposed to Davao Light in 2020. Catalan was joined by fellow Davao Light innovators Eric Camerino, Jeffrey Lingatong, Raquel Caro, Russel Bolivar, and Prince Yamyamin in developing Project A.I. CU in its early stages and rejuvenating the search for other possible A.I. applications in the operations of Davao Light, particularly in the aspects of safety, audit and maintenance. Proof of concept The group was able to complete an A.I. model for Project A.I. CU as a proof of concept before turning it over to ADI, the data science and A.I. arm of the Aboitiz Group. In the near future, ADI aspires to refine and scale the project for its full implementation in Visayan Electric and Davao Light. These AboitizPower subsidiaries are the second and third largest distribution utilities in the Philippines, respectively. Once fully implemented, Project A.I. CU is estimated to save both companies millions of pesos in annual operating costs. As such, ADI will also assess its potential use in other AboitizPower distribution utilities. “This award demonstrates the data-driven innovations being applied in AboitizPower and highlights the growing synergies within the Aboitiz techglomerate, which in this case is between our distribution utilities and ADI,” said AboitizPower President and CEO Emmanuel Rubio. “It also reaffirms AboitizPower’s mission of ‘Transforming Energy for a Better World’ as it continues its digitalization and innovation initiative to ensure quality service.” The post AboitizPower utilities score tech win for A.I. use appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AboitizPower utilities score tech win for use of A.I.
An artificial intelligence-enabled software developed by Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) distribution utilities Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. and Visayan Electric Company, Inc. (Visayan Electric) with Aboitiz Data Innovation Pte. Ltd. gained recognition for helping advance technology and digital transformation in the utility industry. ADI was awarded the Philippines Technology Excellence Award for A.I. - Utilities in the Asian Technology Excellence Awards 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand for Project A.I. CU (“I see you”), a homegrown idea that began in Davao Light. The project utilizes A.I. to optically scan images of electrical installation components — like those mounted on electrical poles — and check if these align with the records of a distribution utility. After a series of pilot tests in Davao Light, the software was able to identify and tag the asset by its individual and unique compatible unit (CU) number which was manually assigned to it beforehand. Each CU represents a grouping of electrical items that a certain electrical asset is composed of. Grouping materials and categorizing assets makes it easier for distribution utilities to identify their infrastructure. Overall, verifying the accuracy of records ensures regulatory compliance, better asset management, operational efficiency, and the continued trust that a distribution utility can deliver justified and cost-effective electricity prices in its franchise area. The use of A.I. to recognize CUs can also significantly reduce the need for manpower and rendered work hours, allowing team members to dedicate time and effort to other activities. Typically, trained engineers are sent to each electrical installation and visually identify each item installed. “The inspiration for Project A.I. CU goes beyond streamlining asset verification. This initiative serves as a window into how we are leveraging artificial intelligence to transform our operations, making them more efficient and smarter,” said Davao Light Meter Shop Supervisor Mark Anthony Catalan, adding that the idea for Project A.I. CU began in 2019 and was proposed to Davao Light in 2020. Catalan was joined by fellow Davao Light innovators Eric Camerino, Jeffrey Lingatong, Raquel Caro, Russel Bolivar, and Prince Yamyamin in developing Project A.I. CU in its early stages and rejuvenating the search for other possible A.I. applications in the operations of Davao Light, particularly in the aspects of safety, audit, and maintenance. The group was able to complete an A.I. model for Project A.I. CU as a proof of concept before turning it over to ADI, the data science and A.I. arm of the Aboitiz Group. In the near future, ADI aspires to refine and scale the project for its full implementation in Visayan Electric and Davao Light. These AboitizPower subsidiaries are the second and third-largest distribution utilities in the Philippines, respectively. Once fully implemented, Project A.I. CU is estimated to save both companies millions of pesos in annual operating costs. As such, ADI will also assess its potential use in other AboitizPower distribution utilities. “This award demonstrates the data-driven innovations being applied in AboitizPower and highlights the growing synergies within the Aboitiz techglomerate, which in this case is between our distribution utilities and ADI,” said AboitizPower President and CEO Emmanuel Rubio. “It also reaffirms AboitizPower’s mission of ‘Transforming Energy for a Better World’ as it continues its digitalization and innovation initiative to ensure quality service.” In line with the Aboitiz Group’s Great Transformation, and as a partner in Philippine development via its power generation and distribution assets, AboitizPower is focusing its transformation in the realms of decarbonization, digitalization, and growing beyond its core business. The Company had already indicated its goal of growing its renewable energy portfolio to at least 4,600 megawatts or 50% of its generation mix by the next decade to aid the country’s energy transition to a cleaner power mix. The Asian Technology Excellence Awards was presented by Asian Business Review, a regional magazine serving Asia's dynamic business community. The post AboitizPower utilities score tech win for use of A.I. appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Australia Prime Minister: Arbitral award ‘final, binding’
Visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has reassured the Philippines of his country’s support for the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated Beijing’s sweeping South China Sea claim, saying the ruling that China has continuously ignored is “binding and final.”.....»»
‘Hamilton’ ticket lottery confirmed for Phl
Producers Jeffrey Seller and Michael Cassel have confirmed the Hamilton digital ticket lottery for the Metro Manila season of the international tour playing at The Theatre at Solaire from 17 September. The digital ticket lottery, known in North America as Ham4Ham, is run exclusively through TicketWorld in the Philippines. The Hamilton Lottery will have a limited number of tickets available throughout the season at a special price. Winners will have the opportunity to purchase two orchestra tickets at P800 each. The lottery will be open from 10 a.m. on 11 September through 11:59 p.m. on 13 September for tickets to performances on the week of 17 to 24 September. Subsequent Hamilton lotteries will begin on each Monday and close the following Wednesday for the upcoming week’s performances. [caption id="attachment_178871" align="aligncenter" width="735"] THE Broadway cast of ‘Hamilton’ (from left) Daveed Diggs, Okieriete Onaodowan, Anthony Ramos and Lin-Manuel Miranda.[/caption] To enter the lottery, sign up at TicketWorld to receive Hamilton Lottery entry access. Those who sign up must use the email address associated with their active TicketWorld account. The lottery will open at 10 a.m. every Monday and will close for entry at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday prior to the following week’s performances. Participants can enter to win the chance to purchase two tickets for the upcoming week’s performances at P800 per ticket. A one-entry-per-week limit will be applied. Winners will be notified every Thursday at 12 p.m. for the upcoming week’s performances via email from TicketWorld. The confirmation email will include a one-time-use promo code and a purchase link that will expire at 12 p.m. the following day of the receipt of the email. Winners may claim and pay for their tickets online or over the counter at TicketWorld outlets before the promo code expires. Additional rules and full terms and conditions can be found on TicketWorld site. “The digital ticket lottery, created for Hamilton fans on Broadway has been embraced with tremendous enthusiasm wherever the show has played all over the world and we know fans in Manila will be exactly the same,“ Cassel said. “It’s important that theatre is accessible for anyone who wants to see it and the digital ticket lottery allows us to introduce this transformative experience to people who may not have been able to see it otherwise.” Hamilton’s first ever international tour will premiere in Manila at The Theatre at Solaire on 17 September ahead of making its Middle East premiere at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in January 2024. More cities are expected to be announced in coming months. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, Hamilton has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theatre — a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education. It premiered on Broadway in August 2015 to wide critical and audience acclaim. The show has won Tony, Grammy and Olivier awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. With book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, Hamilton is based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography. The Hamilton creative team previously collaborated on the 2008 Tony Award-winning Best Musical In the Heights. Scenic design is by David Korins, costume design by Paul Tazewell, lighting design by Howell Binkley, sound design by Nevin Steinberg, hair and wig design by Charles G. LaPointe. The international tour of Hamilton is produced by Seller, Sander Jacobs, Jill Furman, The Public Theater and Cassel. The Manila season is presented by Michael Cassel Group and GMG Productions. Tickets to the Manila and Abu Dhabi seasons are available now at hamiltonmusical.com/international-tour. To be notified when the Hamilton lottery opens and get more updates on the ticket promo news, sign up for the Hamilton Lottery Newsletter at TicketWorld. For more information on tickets and Hamilton Lottery details, visit gmg-productions.com/hamilton/lottery. For news and updates, fans can visit hamiltonmusical.com/international-tour, instagram.com/hamiltoninternationaltour or www.facebook.com/hamiltonintltour. The post ‘Hamilton’ ticket lottery confirmed for Phl appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
TOFA honors this year’s Presidential Volunteer Service awardees
The Outstanding Filipinos in America, an organization that honors the achievements of Filipinos in the USA, named the 2023 Presidential Volunteer Service Awardees during the recent awarding ceremony at the Triad Theater in New York City. Founded by New York-based journalist Elton Lugay, TOFA acknowledged individuals who rendered their talents and skills, expertise and wisdom in diverse community events around the United States. The distinction was acknowledged by the office of The White House in Washington, D.C. This year’s recipients included senior creative manager Angelene Coronel, healthcare worker Richie Garcia, special education teacher Deirdre Levy, public health expert Rachelle Peraz Ocampo, civil rights advocate Clifford Robin Temprosa and digital creators Dennis Almario, Chris Labaco, Jonathan Maravilla, Erwin Pajarillo and Eric Relucio. Dominating the roster were artists and performers Arianne Aldecoa, Denise Kara Almario, Bernice Bernabe, Eric Celerio, Marga Empress, Manilyn Gemproso, Asia Guzman, Melody Himarangan, Erno Hormillosa Jr., Gene Juanich, Hansel Mendoza, Morris Montilla, Marcus Oche, Bobby Ramiro, Ellis Young, Hannah Zapanta and Mark Anthony Atienza. Atienza, a graduate of Bachelor of Arts in Music Production from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, recalled that he was surprised with the recognition. He thought he was just only attending the affair. “I feel honored and blessed to receive this award. It continues to motivate and inspire me to constantly give back to the community,” he said. Since residing in the US since 2021, he sang in Filipino restaurants, including Kabayan and Kusina Pinoy Bistro. Atienza was the opening act of some biggest celebrities’ concerts, such as Morissette Amon, Marcelito Pomoy, Erik Santos, Gary Valenciano and KZ Tandingan. He likewise has been part of special traditional Masses such as Simbang Gabi and social gatherings of the Philippine consulate and the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. With his determination and passion, Atienza, along with his fellow TOFA singers Almario, Guzman, Relucio, Young, Zapanta, Neeko Delos Santos and Geo Rebucas, showcased their vocal prowess with the US National Anthem during the Filipino Heritage Night at a National Basketball Association game at Madison Square Garden in November 2022. They were also invited to serenade the White House for its Christmas Open House in December 2022. Despite missing his home country, Atienza shared that he temporarily decided to stay abroad because of the opportunities which opened up for his career. “As an independent artist during the pandemic, it was really hard for me because I had no place to perform,” he stated. “No way to somehow make a living with my music.” He lauded all musicians and digital creators in the industry for inspiring him to become a better person. “I hope and pray that with your art and contents that you’re making, you’ll continue to use it to make an impact on our society.” Atienza wrote songs for multimedia companies GMA Music and Viva Music. His original pieces were also featured in the movie Walwal, which was directed by award-winning filmmaker and Benilde Digital Filmmaking chairperson Jose Javier “Joey” Reyes. He recently released his debut album 20/20, which was based on his own experiences of love and heartbreak during the coronavirus pandemic. The post TOFA honors this year’s Presidential Volunteer Service awardees appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
4 MMSU freshmen students receive scholarship grant
ILOCOS NORTE - A memorandum of agreement signing ceremony held on Wednesday, 16 August, at the Mariano Marcos State University FEM Hall between MMSU and engineering corporation First Balfour Inc. sealed a deal of partnership to award scholarship grants to MMSU engineering students. University President Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, Hon. Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, and First Balfour, Inc. President & COO Mr. Anthony L. Fernandez, spearheaded the said MOA signing ceremony. Dr. Jan Rich Guira said in his speech that this is a product of months of constant communication between Balfour and MMSU. Meanwhile, College of Engineering Student Affairs and Services Coordinator Engr. Marie Angeli Peñaflor remarked, "With this MOA signing, we set forth on a shared vision to empower, uplift, and transform lives through engineering education." For Israel Agarpao Edra, an incoming BS in Civil Engineering freshman and one of the four selected scholars, the scholarship is a great help and he is happy and thankful to First Balfour and the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte for providing them with this. The scholars will receive living, book, and transportation allowances as well as a first-of-its-kind dormitory allowance for those who will be living in the City of Batac. Aside from these benefits, the sponsor company also promised direct employment after graduation. The post 4 MMSU freshmen students receive scholarship grant appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Chef Valery Anthony’s secrets: Time and Intention
Valery Jane Anthony grew up watching shows on the Food Network, which was ultimately noticed by her nurturing and caring mom, an amazing cook herself. “As she noted that I grew fond of watching the ongoings in the kitchen, she bought me cookbooks which I would continuously read day in and day out,” she shared. “And I presume that’s where my love for food and cooking started. Besides, I would feel myself the most when I’m in the kitchen,” she admitted. [caption id="attachment_168047" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Valery Anthony (rightmost, standing) at her college graduation[/caption] Chef Valery, 24, was raised within an encouraging family. “I believe that’s one big factor as to why I kept persevering through my career. They’ve always been so supportive on whatever I did. And whenever I did make mistakes, they also pointed it out and helped me fix it so I could be better.” Prior to graduation from the Culinary Arts program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, she was the sole Philippine delegate to the Young Chefs Olympiad in India, one of the largest culinary gatherings worldwide, where she clinched fifth place. She likewise garnered silver at the lauded Philippine Culinary Cup. [gallery size="full" columns="2" ids="168049,168057"] During her internship at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners in d’Asti and in the Michelin-star restaurant Il Picolo Principe in Luca, Tuscany, both in Italy, her main takeaways were organization, ingredients, techniques and, most importantly, resilience. “My highlight would definitely be the traveling and the food most especially. There’s really a certain charm when you get to experience another country’s food and culture. I would say it’s a core memory and a lifelong memory of mine,” she imparted. With a culinary degree in hand, her first foray into the professional world was at the award-winning Italian pizzeria a mano Restaurant, where she worked her way up to become a chef de partie. Today, she has joined the ranks of sterling chef Margarita Fores’ Sostanza Corporation as a chef de partie and menu planner. When asked on her favorite ingredient, she approached the question with the intangible — time and intention. “Excellent food may still be done quickly even on a rush. But as with a lot of great dishes, it requires time and patience. Cooking and creating food has to be intentional. It makes it more personal and honestly affects the overall product,” she revealed. [gallery size="full" ids="168081,168080,168079"] Meanwhile, her sharp and trusty knife is her favorite kitchen tool. “Sometimes that’s all a chef needs in a busy kitchen.” When pressured, she tends to remain calm and laugh it out after service. “However, I recalled I started as a really terrible crybaby,” chef Valery divulged. “During my first job, I would cry over the smallest matters. But I eventually learned to manage my thoughts and emotions better under pressure by taking it positively and not to dwell over it.” During her free time, she loves to read and write, being a bookworm back in high school. “Now I enjoy reading articles about food, fashion and art. In addition, I relish going on self-dates! I’m quite comfortable in my own company and I love going to malls, cafes and restaurants by myself. It’s a way for me to unwind and destress.” Looking into the future, she wishes to continue with research and development in the food industry and hopes to be included in more collaborations — fingers crossed, she said. One day someday, she prays for a project she can call her own. [gallery size="full" ids="168078,168077,168076"] We had a chat with chef Valery as she shared her thoughts on values, words of inspiration and working with chef Margarita Fores: On modesty “One lesson that I always carry, even until now, is to keep my feet on the ground and my head held high. College and competitions have humbled me in a lot of ways through mistakes and failures. I emerged as a stronger and wiser person. Keep on pushing! I don’t believe in giving up. I advocate perhaps to take a break, step back. But never give up.” Hardest to master recipe “This is actually quite funny! A little backstory, I am in love with chocolate chip cookies. And I’ve been trying to make my own version since God knows when — I’ve always been left unsatisfied. Only until recently, I made a batch that I was genuinely happy with! I’m not the best with baking, but I do have the patience with testing recipes here and there, every now and then.” Working with Chef Margarita Fores “It still feels so surreal! I’ve been a huge fan since I was in high school. Even before she won Asia’s Best Female Chef, I’ve already had a big admiration for her. She’s extremely kind and fun to be with. She has also opened up a lot of doors for me and I must say that she is one of the catalysts in my career.” Latest projects “I’m currently handling menu planning and research and development in chef Margarita’s catering company. I recently also did a collaboration in Singapore with chef Margarita, chef Miko Calo and chef Johanne Sy. I used to only dream of these. I’m extremely grateful I get to have my passion as my job!” Culinary motto “Never stop learning. I’ve always believed that it is an everyday experience. We always have the chance to gain new knowledge and improve ourselves, through small or big ways. And wherever we go, there will always be those who will have our weaknesses as their strengths and vice versa. So keep on learning.” Advice to aspiring chefs “Take notes of everything, even if you think you won’t need it. One day you will. Always initiate to help. Because that’s one step to learning.” The post Chef Valery Anthony’s secrets: Time and Intention appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Jomari Yllana kinarir ang pagratsada ng Motorsport Carnivale 2023; Richard Gomez, Matteo Guidicelli bibigyan ng special award
KUNG wala nang magiging problema, isa sa magiging highlight ng “Motorsport Carnivale 2023” sporting event ay ang reunion ng original members ng grupong Gwapings. Of course, ang tinutukoy namin ay ang tatlong Gwapings na talaga namang sumikat noon nang bonggang-bogga – sina Jomari Yllana, Eric Fructuoso at Mark Anthony Fernandez. Ang “Motorsport Carnivale” ay in-organize […] The post Jomari Yllana kinarir ang pagratsada ng Motorsport Carnivale 2023; Richard Gomez, Matteo Guidicelli bibigyan ng special award appeared first on Bandera......»»
Samareño farmers grateful for e-titles received from DAR
2,641 e-titles covering an aggregate area of 3,961.5 hectares were distributed to 2,118 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries from all over the Eastern Visayas, Department of Agrarian Reform Eastern Visayas Regional Director Robert Anthony Yu said on Thursday, 27 July. The e-titles were generated under the World Bank-funded Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) project. One of the ARBs who received the electronically generated Certificates of Land Ownership Award from DAR is Jovita Mabalo Mabalo, a 58-year-old mother of nine. “Salamat DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella sa ibinigay na titulo sa lupa na aming sinasaka. At ang pinakaimportante sa lahat, salamat Pangulong Marcos dahil wala na kaming babayaran sa Land Bank sa lupa namin na ibinigay ng DAR,” Mabalo said. Mabalo received 2.5-hectare farmland in Barangay Laygayon, Pinabacdao, Samar. The Samareño farmer used to be a tenant of the Labagalas with farming as their only form of livelihood. Meanwhile, when asked how she felt during the signing of Republic Act 11953 or the New Agrarian Emancipation Act by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Malacañang on 7 July, Mabalo replied: “Masayang-masaya!” Republic Act 11953 or the New Agrarian Emancipation Act freed ARBs from debts incurred from the amortization of lands awarded under Presidential Decree 27 and Republic Acts 6657 and 9700. The President in his message said, “Our beneficiaries deserve nothing less.” He stressed, “Free land distribution must go hand in hand with broadening the provision of credit facilities and support services in the form of farm inputs, equipment, and facilities to our farmers as well as the construction of farm-to-market roads.” He also urged DAR to expedite the individual titling of lands covered by collective CLOAs to secure the tenurial rights of the ARBs. The CLOA distribution rite, held at the Leyte Progressive High School gymnasium in Tacloban City, was simultaneous with the signing of RA 11953 in Malacañang on 7 July 2023. The post Samareño farmers grateful for e-titles received from DAR appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Elton John testifies for defense at Spacey sex assault trial
British rock star Elton John on Monday gave evidence as a witness for the defense at the sexual assault trial of Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey. The two-time Oscar winner denies 12 charges concerning four men, including indecent assault, which are alleged to have occurred between 2001 and 2013. Giving evidence via video link from Monaco, the musician, and his husband David Furnish were questioned about Spacey attending an annual ball at their home in Windsor, west of London. One of the alleged victims has accused Spacey of sexually assaulting him while he was driving the actor to the fundraising event, claiming he grabbed "so hard" they nearly came off the road. Spacey, 63, had earlier told the Southwark Crown Court in London that the incident "never happened", adding that he was "not on a suicide mission". He said there had been a mutual flirtation between them and admitted to having touched the man but not in a "violent, aggressive, painful way". Responding to questions from the prosecution, John said he recalled Spacey, dressed in "white tie", attending the fundraising event in the early 2000s. "He was on a flight, he came on a private jet and he came straight to the ball," John told the court, adding that Spacey stayed overnight at their home after the event. "I can't remember him coming after that," John said. Asked if he came straight from the private jet, the singer said, "I assume so, yes". Furnish, who was first to give evidence, also said he remembered Spacey's presence at the social event. "He was an Oscar-winning actor, there was a lot of excitement he was at the ball," the filmmaker told the jury. "Other than attending the ball I have no memory of Kevin coming to the house ever again," he added. 'Like another son' John was among the several celebrities that Spacey mentioned in court when he entered the witness box earlier in the trial. He spoke of giving a ping pong table to actress Judi Dench after they worked on the 2001 film "The Shipping News" together, saying they developed a "lovely friendship". Spacey grew emotional on Monday, dabbing his eyes as the court heard character statements from friends and family. "House" and "Dead Poets Society" star Robert Sean Leonard described Spacey as "positive, supportive, and respectful", while Chris Lemmon, son of "Some Like It Hot" actor Jack Lemmon, said Spacey was "like another son" to his father. Spacey is an Academy Award winner for "The Usual Suspects" and "American Beauty", and was artistic director of London's Old Vic theatre between 2004 and 2015. At the opening of the trial late last month, the prosecution claimed Spacey was a "sexual bully" who reveled in making others feel uncomfortable, including by aggressively grabbing men's crotches. The court has heard from the four alleged victims, who cannot be named for legal reasons, one of whom, a former aspiring actor, said he woke up to Spacey performing a sex act on him, suggesting the actor "drugged" him. Last week Spacey in his testimony denied the sexual assault charges and described the prosecution's case against him as "weak". He has previously told the court his world "exploded" when he was first accused of sexual assault several years ago by US actor Anthony Rapp in the United States, adding that he "lost everything in a matter of days". Rapp's allegations were found not proven last year. The trial continues. The post Elton John testifies for defense at Spacey sex assault trial appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Award-winning actor Alan Arkin dead at 89
American actor Alan Arkin, recipient of Oscar and Tony Awards, died at 89 on Thursday, 29 June, at his home in Carlsbad, California. Arkin won his Oscar for his supporting role in the indie comedy film, “Little Miss Sunshine”, in 2007. Prior to that, he won a Tony Award in the Broadway play "Enter Laughing" in 1963. The actor is survived by his three sons—Adam, Matthew, and Anthony—as well as his wife, Suzanne. “Our father was a uniquely talented force of nature, both as an artist and a man. A loving husband, father, grand and great grandfather, he was adored and will be deeply missed,” his children said in a joint statement. The post Award-winning actor Alan Arkin dead at 89 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Top Australian TV journalist quits show over racism
One of Australia's top television journalists has opened a bout of national soul-searching by quitting his show over the racist abuse he faces as an Indigenous man in the spotlight. An award-winning journalist with the ABC, Stan Grant said the national broadcaster had lodged a complaint with Twitter about the "relentless racial filth" he endured. But he added that he saw the media itself "lie and distort my words" and depict him as "hate-filled" after he raised Britain's colonial persecution of Indigenous Australians during ABC's coverage of King Charles III's coronation. "I pointed out that the crown represents the invasion and theft of our land," Grant said in an article published Friday on the ABC's website. "Police wearing the seal of the crown took children from their families. Under the crown, our people were massacred." His coronation commentary was heavily criticized as being one-sided and inappropriate by some conservative media. Grant said he spoke out of love for Australia because he needed to tell the truth that Indigenous people still have the highest rates of imprisonment and poverty. The 59-year-old announced he would walk away as presenter after the next episode of ABC's Q+A current affairs discussion program on Monday. Grant took his own employer to task. Toxicity around race "I am writing this because no one at ABC -- whose producers invited me onto their coronation coverage as a guest -- has uttered one word of public support. Not one ABC executive has publicly refuted the lies written or spoken about me." Prime Minister Anthony Albanese offered his support to Grant, telling journalists: "You can have respect for different views without engaging in vilification." ABC news director Justin Stevens also issued a statement backing Grant, saying he had faced "grotesque racial abuse, including threats to his safety". Other colleagues spoke out, too. "There are no words adequate to express the horror we feel at this. Stan is brilliant and cherished," said Sarah Ferguson, presenter of ABC's flagship evening current affairs program, The 7.30 Report. Osman Faruqi, the culture news editor for The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald, who previously worked at the ABC, said staffing at the national broadcaster was not representative of the cultural mix of Australia. But the issue went further than the national broadcaster, he said in an opinion piece on Saturday. "It's also bigger than the media. There is a toxicity around race that resides deep within this country, infecting all of our institutions -- the media, sport, arts, business, and politics," Faruqi said. I have had enough In his departure announcement, Grant said Indigenous people had learned to "tough it out". But the stakes are now higher, he said, as the country prepares for a referendum this year on whether to give Indigenous people the constitutional right to be consulted about laws that affect them. "There is a referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament and I am not alone in feeling judged. This is an Australian judgment on us. Such is politics," Grant wrote. "But racism is a crime. Racism is violence. And I have had enough." The post Top Australian TV journalist quits show over racism appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sixers sweep Nets to advance, Suns on brink as Heat burn Bucks
The Philadelphia 76ers shrugged off the absence of Joel Embiid to complete a 4-0 sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA playoffs on Saturday as the Phoenix Suns edged closer to a second-round berth by beating the Los Angeles Clippers. The Sixers advanced to an Eastern Conference semi-final showdown against either Boston or Atlanta with a dominant second-half display to seal a 96-88 victory in Brooklyn. Elsewhere in the East, the Miami Heat thrashed the short-handed Milwaukee Bucks 121-99 to edge ahead of the top seeds 2-1 in their best-of-seven series. In Brooklyn, the Sixers trailed by 11 points early in the third quarter but transformed the contest with an 18-4 run to take the lead before closing out victory with a fourth-quarter rally. The Sixers' win was all the more impressive given the absence of star center Embiid, who suffered a right knee sprain in Thursday's 102-97 victory in game three. Embiid led the NBA with 33.1 points a game and is a finalist for the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Paul Reed stepped in to fill the void and finished with 10 points and 15 rebounds. Tobias Harris led the scoring for Philadelphia with 25 points and 12 rebounds, while De'Anthony Melton came off the bench to produce 15 points and lead the fourth-quarter surge. Harris said the Sixers were determined to use Embiid's absence as a motivator. "He's the MVP. And when we heard he wasn't playing, I think it was an opportunity for everybody else to really step up and understand that we've got to get a win without the big fellow," Harris told the TNT television network. "The whole group came together today. It's a great win for us and a great way to sweep the series." Asked what his message to the injured Embiid would be, Harris replied: "Hurry up and get your ass back out here." The 4-0 series victory was Philadelphia's first playoff sweep since 1991. Spencer Dinwiddie led Brooklyn's scoring with 20 points while Nic Claxton had 19 points with 12 rebounds. "Getting swept is trash," a dejected Claxton said. "It's not a good feeling." Suns on the brink In Los Angeles, Kevin Durant finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds and six assists to help Phoenix beat the Clippers 112-100 for a 3-1 series lead. Devin Booker plundered 30 points and veteran Chris Paul added 19 in a late burst of scoring as Phoenix bagged their second straight win in Los Angeles. "I'm in a good place and I'm enjoying playing ball," Durant said. "I've been out a few months this season, and I'm just happy I'm out here where the ball is." It means the Suns need just one more win to book their place in the Western Conference semi-finals, with game five set for Phoenix on Tuesday. The Clippers' hopes of squaring the series had been dealt a blow by the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who joined Paul George on the injured list. Russell Westbrook produced one of his best performances for the Clippers with a 37-point display. In Miami, the Heat took full advantage of the absence of Milwaukee's two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, leading by double digits much of the night. Jimmy Butler scored 30 points on 12-of-19 shooting before departing late in the third quarter after taking a hard fall. After visiting the locker room he returned to the bench but with the game in hand did not go back on the floor. Duncan Robinson scored 20 points and fellow reserve Kyle Lowry added 15 as the Heat bench delivered 59 points. "We just came out here and played with some intensity," Lowry said. The Heat will try to level the series on Monday, but Lowry said he knows they'll face a tough task. "Every game is a different game," he said. Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said the team would continue to "monitor" Antetokounmpo, who suffered a back contusion in game one, missed game two and was a late scratch on Saturday. In the late game the Memphis Grizzlies welcomed star guard Ja Morant back after a hand injury as they visited the Los Angeles Lakers with their series knotted 1-1. The post Sixers sweep Nets to advance, Suns on brink as Heat burn Bucks appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sixers advance after Nets sweep, Suns on brink as Clippers downed
The Philadelphia 76ers shrugged off the absence of Joel Embiid to complete a 4-0 sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA playoffs on Saturday as the Phoenix Suns edged closer to a second-round berth with a victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. The Sixers advanced to an Eastern Conference semi-final showdown against either Boston or Atlanta with a dominant second-half display to seal a 96-88 victory in Brooklyn. The Sixers trailed by 11 points early in the third quarter but transformed the contest with an 18-4 run to take the lead before closing out victory with a fourth-quarter rally. The Sixers' win was all the more impressive given the absence of star center Embiid, who suffered a right knee sprain in Thursday's 102-97 victory in game three. Embiid led the NBA with 33.1 points a game and is a finalist for the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. With Embiid out, Paul Reed stepped in to fill the void and finished with 10 points and 15 rebounds. Tobias Harris led the scoring for Philadelphia with 25 points and 12 rebounds, while De'Anthony Melton came off the bench to produce 15 points and lead the fourth-quarter rally. Harris said the Sixers had been determined to use Embiid's absence as a motivator. "He's the MVP. And when we heard he wasn't playing, I think it was an opportunity for everybody else to really step up and understand that we've got to get a win without the big fella," Harris told the TNT television network after the win. "For us to come out here and get this victory, it feels great for the whole group. "The whole group came together today. It's a great win for us and a great way to sweep the series." Asked what his message to the injured Embiid would be, Harris replied: "Hurry up and get your ass back out here." The 4-0 series victory was Philadelphia's first playoff sweep since 1991. Spencer Dinwiddie led Brooklyn's scoring with 20 points while Nic Claxton had 19 points with 12 rebounds. In Los Angeles, Kevin Durant finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds and six assists to help Phoenix take a 3-1 series lead over the Clippers with a 112-100 victory. Devin Booker plundered 30 points and veteran Chris Paul added 19 in a late burst of scoring as Phoenix bagged their second straight win in Los Angeles in the best-of-seven series. It means the Suns need just one more win to book their place in the Western Conference semi-finals, with game five set for Phoenix on Tuesday. The Clippers' hopes of squaring the series had been dealt a blow by the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who joined Paul George on the injured list. In their absence, Russell Westbrook produced one of his best performances for the Clippers with a 37-point display but ultimately it was not enough as the greater depth of the Suns' line-up proved too much. "I'm in a good place and I'm enjoying playing ball," Durant said after the win. "I've been out a few months this season, and I'm just happy I'm out here where the ball is." In later playoff games on Saturday, the Milwaukee Bucks travel to Miami looking for a win on the road over the Heat with the best-of-seven series finely balanced at 1-1. Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who sat out game two after suffering a back injury in game one, was listed as questionable for Milwaukee. In the late game, the Memphis Grizzlies travel to Los Angeles to face the Lakers with their series knotted at one game apiece. The post Sixers advance after Nets sweep, Suns on brink as Clippers downed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Christine Bermas nag-frontal sa ‘Scorpio Nights 3’, naiyak sa presscon; Mark Anthony nagpakita ng pagkalalaki
BIGLANG napaiyak ang Vivamax bombshell na si Christine Bermas sa private screening at mediacon ng pasabog at nakakaloka niyang pelikula, ang “Scorpio Nights 3.” Napanood na namin ang ikaapat (kabilang na ang Korean remake nito) na version ng classic movie ng award-winning director na si Peque Gallaga at masasabi naming ito na ang pinakapalaban, pinaka-shocking […] The post Christine Bermas nag-frontal sa ‘Scorpio Nights 3’, naiyak sa presscon; Mark Anthony nagpakita ng pagkalalaki appeared first on Bandera......»»
Samsam to award 8 brave, honest traffic enforcers
MANDAUE CITY, Cebu – Their bravery and honesty did not go unnoticed. Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony Gullas Jr. said he plans to give an award to eight traffic enforcers including the one, who helped in the arrest a suspected snatcher at the Cebu South Coastal Road (CSCR), just recently. A video which showed the […] The post Samsam to award 8 brave, honest traffic enforcers appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»