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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.....»»
Hamas masterminds top Israel’s ‘dead man walking’ hit list
Israel has threatened that every Hamas member faces death when it invades Gaza but two accused masterminds of the October 7 attacks are at the top of its hit list. Military strategist Mohammed Deif and political leader Yahya Sinwar have already spent time in Israeli or Palestinian jails and been the targets of multiple attempts to kill them. The hunt for the two most senior Hamas leaders in the besieged Gaza Strip will be fierce this time. In the war of words leading up to the impending ground offensive, Israel has said that Sinwar is "a dead man walking" after Hamas fighters killed about 1,400 people and abducted more than 200 in the worst attacks suffered by Israel since its creation 75 years ago. Israel has responded with a withering bombardment of Gaza that has killed more than 3,700 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, and with a volley of deadly warnings. "Hamas terrorists have two options: Be killed or surrender unconditionally. There is no third option," Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said. Hamas spokesmen have responded that the Palestinian Islamist group is "not scared". Security sources outside Gaza say Deif and Sinwar are now embedded in a network of tunnels built to resist the bombing campaign launched after the brutal attacks on communities and military bases near the border shook Israel to its core. But the pair have spent years operating in the shadows. Israel has singled out the 61-year-old Sinwar, who was elected Hamas leader in Gaza in 2017 after Ismail Haniyeh became the movement's supreme leader. Military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Richard Hecht called Sinwar the "face of evil" and declared him a "dead man walking". Sinwar was a founding member of Hamas in 1987 during the first Palestinian intifada or uprising and rose through the ranks as a fierce advocate of armed struggle. A graduate of the Islamic University in Gaza, he learned Hebrew during 23 years in Israeli jails. Sinwar was serving four life terms for the killing of two Israeli soldiers when in 2011 he became the most senior of 1,100 Palestinians released in exchange for French-Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. In the shadows Sinwar and Deif were both born in the Khan Yunis refugee camp in Gaza and added to the United States' list of most wanted "international terrorists" in 2015. Hamas is blacklisted as a "terrorist organisation" by the European Union as well as the United States. Much less is known about Deif, Israel's number one public enemy for the past two decades during which he has been accused of organising suicide attacks, kidnappings and other raids. There is only one known full-face photo of the commander of the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas's military wing. It is at least 20 years old. The others show him either in a mask or standing in the shadows to avoid identification. An audio message from Deif was transmitted by Hamas media on the morning of the attacks dubbed Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. "The rage of our people and our nation is exploding," he said. Deif was born Mohammed Diab al-Masri in 1965. His assumed name means "Guest" in Arabic and he reportedly never spends more than one night in the same place. Enemies have dubbed him the "cat with nine lives" as he has survived at least six attempts to kill him. Deif's wife and at least one child were killed in an Israeli air strike during the 2014 Gaza war. Deif has reportedly lost one eye and been left disabled by the attempts on his life but it has not weakened his influence. He has been involved with Hamas since the 1980s and was arrested at the start of the second intifada but escaped, or was released, from a Palestinian Authority prison in 2000. He became head of the Hamas military wing in 2002 and has been Israel's bete noire ever since. Israel has sent repeated warnings to the Hamas leadership since October 7. "Every member of Hamas is a dead man," said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. But experts say that eliminating Sinwar and Deif would severely weaken but not crush Hamas, which is Israel's declared aim. "Sinwar and Deif are clearly first priority leadership, the loss of which would damage Hamas, but one presumes that the group has contingencies about their loss," said H.A. Hellyer, an international security specialist at the Royal United Services Institute in London. The post Hamas masterminds top Israel’s ‘dead man walking’ hit list appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Man on a mission
He has been to hell and back since entering the country’s premier military school, the Philippine Military Academy, where he graduated magna cum laude in 1982, to seeing action as a police officer, and lately to waltzing into the ring of fire by entering politics. Much has been written about the exploits of former police general Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong, Baguio City Mayor, since 2019, with the positive usually outweighing the negative. Love him, hate him, but believe me, Magalong is no lone ranger. He can sustain the hard yards of fighting criminality and corruption that one wonders where he gets all the energy and focus in addressing the challenges that come his way. Last month, Magalong and a few local chief executives launched “Mayors for Good Governance,” a campaign for responsible leadership and anti-corruption in local governments. They signed A2, a manifesto committing local executives to transparency and the rule of law. The movement has already received support from more than 150 city and municipal mayors nationwide, a testament to how much rests on his stewardship. Corruption is like a “communicable” disease that can easily transmit the evils that go with it from the lowest strata to the highest echelon of society. It has many forms and strains — from petty graft to large-scale kickbacks — and affects people from all walks of life, generations, and races. People get used to it until it becomes a way of life, and in the process, they lose their independence of thought because their eyes are shut. Pope Francis described it best: “Some people behave in relation to corruption as they would with drugs. They think they can take it and leave it as they please. They start with something minor: a kickback here, a bribe there. And between this and that, they gradually lose their freedom.” Fighting corruption is like fighting drugs; it is never one-sided. There are hits and misses along the way. Anything is fair game when you put a face into a noble cause. I was a field operative of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency assigned in Region 8 when Magalong was director of PDEA’s Special Enforcement Service, which was responsible for dismantling numerous drug laboratories and causing the dismissal of several police scalawags. Magalong is one straight arrow. He never compromises his name when it comes to fighting drugs and crime. However, he is also a caring leader who always looks after his men like he would his children. He never tolerates shenanigans but lavishes praise and support for a well-done job. That’s why it did not come as a surprise when he was made chairman of the Mamasapano Board of Inquiry in 2015, which investigated the carnage of 44 Special Action Forces in Maguindanao. I have seen firsthand Magalong’s sincerity when it comes to public service. A public servant who goes beyond his comfort zone to give timely and proper assistance to the public, Magalong has the integrity and bravery to stand by his ideals to the detriment of his career because he wants the country to succeed. Like Magalong, I also had my share of fighting the tentacles of corruption in PDEA and later at the Bureau of Customs, once touted as the most corrupt government agency, during my seven-month stint as a commissioner despite the brickbats and the Sword of Damocles hanging above me. It was a lonely battle indeed, especially since I came to the bureau all alone. Tormentors coming from opposite directions were having a field day — from the not-so-harmless Marites (Mare, ano ang latest?) and Mariposa (Mare, post mo na) to greedy politicians and industry shenanigans. I have no moral qualms regarding Magalong’s mission — to take the arduous and lifelong task of making a difference in people’s lives, especially the poor, who are most hurt by corruption. Taking the high road is never easy, and I am sure that knowing Magalong, he could surmount all the hurdles, including the legal ones, that come in the end. The post Man on a mission appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Extremist’ Trump threatens U.S. democracy, Biden warns
With House Republicans launching an impeachment inquiry against him, United States President Joe Biden went into offensive on Thursday with a chilling warning to Americans planning to elect Donald Trump in next year’s presidential election. In a speech in the battleground state of Arizona Thursday, the 80-year-old Biden accused the Republican primary frontrunner and his followers of attacking the free press and the rule of law, and planning to gut US institutions if he wins a second term. “Trump says the constitution gave him ‘the right to do what he wants’,” Biden said, referring to statements by Trump about how he saw his powers in office. “I’ve never even heard a president say that in jest — not guided by the constitution or by common service and decency towards our fellow Americans, but by vengeance and vindictiveness.” The reelectionist president rallied Americans who are silent to stand up for democracy before it was too late. Biden also turned the table on Trump for the former president’s remark that US soldiers captured or killed in action as “suckers and losers.” “Was he a sucker for volunteering to serve his country?” Biden asked, referring to his son Beau, who served in Iraq and died of brain cancer in 2015 aged 46, and the late Arizona senator and Vietnam war hero John McCain. Biden and Trump were in early campaign mode this week with both men visiting the swing state of Michigan to speak to auto workers. Conservatives have accused Biden of trading on the power of his office when he was vice president under Barack Obama to help his younger son Hunter secure lucrative foreign business deals, and of benefiting personally from alleged corruption. Democrats have dismissed the hearings as a stunt but they will add to the pressure on Biden as he battles poor approval ratings and polls showing him neck-and-neck with Trump. WITH AFP The post ‘Extremist’ Trump threatens U.S. democracy, Biden warns appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Total lawfare’: Ukraine’s other front in the war
On 26 February 2022, while Russian tanks were barrelling towards Kyiv, Ukrainian lawyers were fighting on a different front, submitting a case against Moscow at the International Court of Justice. The gilded halls of the Peace Palace in The Hague, where the court sits, are a world away from the trenches of Donbas but Ukraine believes its legal attacks on Russia are a critical part of the fight. What cases are open in Ukraine's campaign of all-out "lawfare" against Moscow and, with little chance of Russian compliance, what's the point? Where are the legal front lines? The Hague, Strasbourg, and Hamburg. Ukraine has dragged Russia before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which rules on disputes between nations, arguing that President Vladimir Putin abused the UN Genocide Convention when he used an alleged "genocide" in eastern Ukraine as a pretext for invasion. The final arguments in this case will be heard later Wednesday. Also in The Hague, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Putin, accusing him of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children, a war crime. Neither of these courts, however, can try Russian leaders, including Putin, for the crime of "aggression", defined as an attack on one state by another in breach of the UN charter. So a special group of prosecutors from Ukraine, the EU, the United States, and the ICC has been set up in The Hague with a view to establishing a special tribunal to bring senior Russians to trial. Ukraine also has cases open at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg over alleged Russian human rights abuses. Finally, Ukraine also brought cases to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in Hamburg over what it says is Russia's disregard for international maritime law. Will Russia comply? It seems unlikely that Russia would comply with any ruling from an international court -- for example, in March 2022, the ICJ ordered Moscow to immediately halt its invasion. Russia didn't even turn up to the hearings in that case. But it's far from an academic exercise, said Cecily Rose, assistant professor of public international law at Leiden University. "There are examples of cases in which Russia has complied at least partially with an adverse ruling by an international court," Rose told AFP, citing a 2015 verdict in which Moscow reportedly stumped up half the cash it was ordered to. "It shows that non-compliance cannot be cynically assumed. Most of the time, states do comply with awards and judgments rendered by international courts and tribunals." What's the point? Even if Russia doesn't comply, Kyiv and most legal experts think the international community needs to draw a line in the sand. "Some countries do not comply with the law, including Russia. However, it is still important to call them out and to bring a case against them when they do breach the law," said Melanie O'Brien, assistant professor at the University of Western Australia Law School. "The case demonstrates that other countries do not view Russia's conduct as acceptable -- but rather, as unlawful," O'Brien told AFP. A ruling from the ICJ against Russia would be a further element in isolating Moscow and confirming it broke international law, she said. "It is also an important acknowledgment for victims of human rights abuses and international crimes such as war crimes that what happened to them and their loved ones was not lawful," she added. Proving that Russia's actions were in contravention of international law could also be key in future peace negotiations, including over potential reparations, noted Rose. How long will it take? The wheels of justice grind slowly. The ICJ "genocide" case is only about whether the court even has jurisdiction. A special tribunal is politically sensitive and will take a long time to establish. But the wheels of justice also grind exceedingly fine. "Just because Putin won't comply with a ruling now, he won't be in power forever," said O'Brien. "At some point, a change of regime will occur and may lead to compliance with international law." The post ‘Total lawfare’: Ukraine’s other front in the war appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden’s son Hunter to plead not guilty to gun charges
US President Joe Biden's son Hunter will plead not guilty to charges of illegally buying a gun when he was using drugs, his lawyer said Tuesday. Hunter Biden, 53, was charged last week with two counts of making false statements when claiming on forms required for a 2018 gun purchase that he was not using drugs illegally at the time. On Tuesday, Hunter Biden's lawyer, Abbe David Lowell, asked the judge presiding over the case in the eastern state of Delaware to hold the first court appearance by video conference instead of requiring his client to attend in person. Hunter Biden currently lives in California. "Mr. Biden understands both the charges against him and his rights... and we believe the Court can be assured of that fact by conducting this initial appearance by video," Lowell said in the letter to US Magistrate Judge Christopher Burke. "Mr. Biden also will enter a plea of not guilty, and there is no reason why he cannot utter those two words by video conference," Lowell said. "Mr. Biden is not seeking any special treatment in making this request," he added. "He has attended and will attend any proceedings in which his physical appearance is required." Hunter Biden is also facing a third charge, based on the same statements, that he illegally possessed the gun during an 11-day period in October 2018. If convicted on all three felony charges, he could face 25 years in prison, though in practice the offenses are seldom punished by any jail time. The indictment came two days after Republicans in Congress opened an impeachment probe against Joe Biden, a Democrat, alleging that when the elder Biden was vice president he benefited financially from his son's foreign business dealings. They alleged, without offering hard evidence, that while vice president in 2015-2016, Biden intervened to protect an allegedly corrupt Ukrainian energy company, Burisma, where Hunter Biden sat on the board. The gun charges against Hunter Biden were filed by Justice Department special counsel David Weiss, who has been investigating him since 2018 over various allegations, mostly related to his overseas business deals. A plea deal between Hunter Biden and Weiss, covering the gun charge as well as alleged tax violations, collapsed two months ago. Hunter Biden is a Yale-trained lawyer and lobbyist-turned-artist, but his life has been marred by alcoholism and crack cocaine addiction and his indictment has cast a shadow over his father's campaign for reelection next year. The post Biden’s son Hunter to plead not guilty to gun charges appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
COP28 will include first local climate summit
A summit for non-national authorities will take place during crunch UN climate talks in the United Arab Emirates, officials said Tuesday, in recognition of the role of cities and local governments in averting ecological disaster. Named the "COP28 Local Climate Action Summit," it was announced on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly by Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, the president-designate of the COP28 talks, and billionaire philanthropist Michael Bloomberg, who will co-host. Its chairs include US climate envoy John Kerry and his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua, with the event to be held December 1-2. "Cities are where the climate battle will largely be won or lost," said United Nations chief Antonio Guterres in a statement. "Mobilizing and equipping local governments with the capacity and financing to accelerate climate action is necessary if we are to bend the emissions curve." In the fight to prevent climate disaster and hold long-term warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2100, the pledges and policies of national governments have long hogged the spotlight. But, according to a report by the C40 coalition of cities, a network of nearly 100 mayors, "three-quarters of C40 cities have outpaced their respective nation-states in per-capita emission reduction, illustrating the clout of city-led policies and initiatives." Around 70 percent of the world's people are expected to call cities home by the year 2050, and more work needs to be done to ensure subnational governments are prepared to meet the challenges of increasing climate disasters, organizers said. "By bringing hundreds of local leaders to COP28, we will foster new, multi-level partnerships to help fast-track the energy transition, fix climate finance, focus on people, lives and livelihoods, and make sure local voices are heard at the international climate table," said Jaber. Local leaders first convened informally on the sidelines of COP21 in 2015, where the Paris Agreement was adopted. "In the climate crisis, big leadership comes from small governments, and that's a great trend," Oscar Soria, campaign director for the nonprofit Avaaz, told AFP. "However, it also shows the lack of leadership from national governments, who are ultimately the ones that set the tone on ambition and progress on climate." The UN's first official progress report on climate published earlier this month concluded the world is perilously off course in meeting goals for slashing carbon pollution and boosting finance for the developing world. The post COP28 will include first local climate summit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden’s son Hunter indicted on gun charges
US President Joe Biden's son Hunter was indicted Thursday for illegally buying a gun when he was using drugs, casting a new shadow over his father's campaign for reelection next year. Hunter Biden, 53, was charged with two counts of making false statements when claiming on forms required for the 2018 gun purchase that he was not using drugs illegally at the time. A third charge said that, based on the false statements, he illegally possessed the gun during an 11-day period in October that year. If convicted on all three felony charges, Biden could in theory face 25 years in prison, though in practice they are seldom punished by any jail time. In attesting that he was not an unlawful user of drugs when he bought the Colt Cobra revolver, Biden "knew that statement was false," the Justice Department said. The indictment came two days after Republicans in Congress opened an impeachment probe against Democrat Joe Biden, alleging that when he was vice president he benefitted financially from his son's foreign business dealings. The legal troubles of Hunter Biden present a target for political rivals of his father, who is bidding for a second term in the White House. Hunter is a Yale-trained lawyer and lobbyist-turned-artist, but his life has been marred by alcoholism and crack cocaine addiction. Without offering any evidence, Republicans have accused Biden's Justice Department of protecting his son and have accused Weiss, a Republican appointee, of going easy on Hunter. Representative James Comer, a Republican from Kentucky who will be leading the impeachment inquiry, welcomed the filing of the gun charges, calling it a "very small start." "Mountains of evidence reveals that Hunter Biden likely committed several felonies and Americans expect the Justice Department to apply the law equally," Comer said. Twice-impeached former president Donald Trump reacted on his Truth Social platform. "This, the gun charge, is the only crime that Hunter Biden committed that does not implicate Crooked Joe Biden," he said. - Plea deal collapsed - But a leading Democrat, Keisha Lance Bottoms, ex-mayor of Atlanta and a former senior adviser to Joe Biden, questioned why Hunter had been charged. "Can anyone tell me how many people have been federally indicted for purchasing a gun while dealing with substance abuse issues?" Bottoms said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "I don't know the answer, but in my over 29 years as an attorney, I have never heard of it." The gun charges were filed by Justice Department special counsel David Weiss, who has been investigating Hunter Biden since 2018 over various allegations, mostly related to his overseas business deals. Two months ago a plea deal between Biden and Weiss, covering the gun charge as well as alleged tax violations, went sour. Biden agreed to plead guilty in federal court in Delaware to two minor tax charges. In exchange he was offered probation, as he had already paid what he owed the government along with penalties. Weiss agreed to suspend the felony gun charge if Biden completed "pretrial diversion," which often involves counseling or rehabilitation. But in a dramatic July 26 hearing, the deal collapsed over whether Biden would have been immune from any other charges also investigated by Weiss, including possible crimes related to his business dealings in Ukraine, China and elsewhere. The judge mentioned the possibility that Biden could be charged as having acted as a lobbyist for foreign governments without registering with the Justice Department. Three weeks later, after the deal collapsed, Weiss dropped the tax charges and said an indictment on the gun charge would come by the end of September. As the 2024 election race swings into gear, Republicans in the House of Representatives on Tuesday formally opened an impeachment inquiry against President Biden. They alleged, without offering hard evidence, that while vice president in 2015-2016, Biden intervened to protect an allegedly corrupt Ukrainian energy company, Burisma, where Hunter Biden sat on the board. Republicans allege Joe Biden and his family reaped large sums for helping Burisma. The post Biden’s son Hunter indicted on gun charges appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
US firms to dip fingers into MIF
An in-depth study by the Asian Central Journal or ACJ dated 20 July 2023 reveals that the Department of Finance forged a $1-million contract with a US PR firm, Weber Shandwick Philippines or WSP, that was signed in early January 2023, according to WSP sources. The ACJ study asks why the Maharlika Investment Fund or MIF bill was signed at the precise time Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri was in the US. “On 21 June, Senate President Zubiri reportedly signed an ‘enrolled’ copy of the MIF. Jose Manuel Romualdez, the Philippine ambassador to the US, was present for the signing. Ambassador Romualdez has long held the positions of chairman and CEO at WSP.” The ACJ study reports that, “The US was designated as the top campaign market in the PR strategy to draw US investment” and that “the MIF might be used by the US as a means of financial pressure on the (Philippines).” In other words, US funds for the MIF may be used as bait for the US to get major MIF projects in the future. The study says the WSP PR strategy aims (1) “to decrease misconceptions about the MIF, particularly those pertaining to abuse and corruption” (downplaying corruption helps fuel it); (2) “to raise awareness of it as an instrument for economic development” (sanctifying corruption as ‘economic development’); and (3) “MIF management and investment may be subject to US intervention. DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman stated on 19 April that several US corporate organizations and investors are eager to assist us in structuring the MIF.” This dangerous move towards achieving US corporate funds for the MIF will easily increase corruption tenfold, with the participation of US corporations. This was the strategy of US oil firms in Nigeria in partnership with a corrupt government to siphon the oil for the West. The US corporations turned a blind eye to the corruption. The strategy triggered the growth of terrorists in the Muslim-dominated deep north which did benefit from the “development” received by the Christian-dominated south. The ACJ report, citing the MIF, warns, “There looms a grave concern: the specter of corruption.” It cites two cases. “Norway’s sovereign wealth fund lost $174 billion (about P8.7 trillion) in the first half of 2022, while (the Singapore-based) Temasek Holdings, which is primarily regarded as a sovereign wealth fund, has seen a net loss of S$7.3 billion throughout the nearly 50 years since its founding.” If less corrupt-prone affluent nations like Norway and Singapore are unable to contain corruption in sovereign wealth funds, what more a Third World nation like the Philippines, which is noted for rampant unstoppable corruption? In its 2020-2022 survey, the Philippines ranked no. 116 out of 180 nations (the higher the ranking, the more corrupt) in the Corruption Perceptions Index published by Transparency International. Norway ranked No. 4 and Singapore No. 5 as least corrupt. (Source: Wikipedia). The MIF Act provides that a Maharlika Investment Corporation or MIC will be established to manage the MIF fund. The ACJ study is concerned that the MIC board of directors will consist of presidential appointees “based on favor rather than talent… in a nation where nepotism is rife.” (Ambassador Romualdez is the second cousin of Marcos Jr. It’s all in the family.) This will induce a “lack of transparency in regulation and a high risk of financial embezzlement.” The ACJ study argues that “the MIF could be a weapon for politicians to steal from the public coffers,” citing the case of Angola. In 2018, Jose Filomeno dos Santos, ex-sovereign fund chairman and son of ex-President Jose Eduardo dos Santos, was charged with the theft of $1.5 billion. In 2015, the Wall Street Journal reported that Malaysia’s Prime Minister Najib Razak transferred about $700 million from the 1Malaysia Development Berhad fund to his personal account. The ACJ study reports that Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised $6.5 billion in five years. In an investigation after the 1MDB scandal broke out, Goldman Sachs admitted stealing $1 billion from 1MDB “to bribe officials in Malaysia and other nations, including (payments) for the extravagant lifestyles of Malaysian officials and purchasing luxury yachts and hotels for them.” Goldman Sachs pocketed $4.6 billion in bribes and kickbacks. Ex-Goldman Sachs banker Roger Ng was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in the massive 1MDB heist. It will be easy for creative Filipino politicians to improve on this type of ‘Financial Terrorism’ with the help of equally corrupt Western corporations. They must be drooling in excitement. This evil partnership of government and multinationals is the biggest hindrance to the true development of Third World countries. Even as the MIF heist is yet to happen, the solons are cooking up a more sinister storm, the Overseas Filipino Workers Sovereign Wealth Fund, tapping the biggest dollar earner of the country. This is “stealing” the hard-earned money of our workers. The OFWs may rise in protest. *** eastwindreplyctr@gmail.com The post US firms to dip fingers into MIF appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Canada PM Trudeau and wife announce separation
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Wednesday that he and his wife of 18 years, Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau, are separating. In a post on Instagram, the prime minister said "that after many meaningful and difficult conversations, we have made the decision to separate." A statement from his office added that the couple have signed "a legal separation agreement." It said the public can expect to continue seeing them and their three children together as "they remain a close family" and both parents will be a "constant presence in their children's lives." They asked for privacy ahead of a family vacation scheduled for next week. Trudeau and his wife, a former entertainment reporter, were childhood friends and reconnected in 2003 while co-hosting a charity ball. They soon started dating and married in 2005 in Montreal. They have three children together: Xavier, 15, Ella Grace, 14, and nine-year-old Hadrien. The separation is the first for a Canadian prime minister since Trudeau's late father Pierre Trudeau, who split from Margaret Trudeau in the late 1970s and eventually divorced in 1984 during his final months in office. Sunny days, heavy storms In his 2014 memoir "Common Ground," the younger Trudeau recalled that the "dark drama" at home and his parents' eventual divorce had been hard on him. His own breakup comes as Trudeau's ruling Liberals are struggling in the polls against the opposition Conservatives ahead of elections expected before the end of 2025. Trudeau announced last week a major shakeup in his cabinet with the stated goal of strengthening his economic team ahead of that looming campaign. This involved changing more than two-thirds of his political inner circle, with seven new recruits joining the cabinet and around 20 ministers reassigned to new roles. Sophie Gregoire, 48, had been a constant presence at her 51-year-old husband's side at political events over the past decade, as he took the party from third place to form a government in 2015, and through two more winning ballots in 2019 and 2021. But she has appeared in public less in recent years, at times lamenting the struggles of marriage, saying last year in a social media post that they had "navigated through sunny days, heavy storms and everything in between." Trudeau himself has also hinted at difficulties, writing in his memoir: "Our marriage isn't perfect, and we have had difficult ups and downs, yet Sophie remains my best friend, my partner, my love. We are honest with each other, even when it hurts." On their latest anniversary in May, Trudeau posted a photo online of the pair holding hands as they drove along a remote Canadian highway in a motor home, with the caption "Every mile of this journey together is an adventure. I love you Soph." The post Canada PM Trudeau and wife announce separation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Philippines coach Stajcic steps down after Women’s World Cup exit
Philippines coach Alen Stajcic has left his post after the national team's exit from their first Women's World Cup, the Philippine Football Federation said on Tuesday. The Philippines have shaken off their status as regional minnows since Stajcic's appointment as coach in late 2021 -- they have jumped from 68 in the FIFA rankings to a best-ever 46th. The Philippines were not expected to get out of their group, but caused a major upset by beating co-hosts New Zealand for a historic first World Cup win before a 6-0 defeat to Norway on Sunday ended their adventure. The Philippine Football Federation said Stajcic and assistant coach Nahuel Arrarte had "decided to explore other options" at the end of the World Cup campaign. "Coach Alen Stajcic's appointment as Philippine Women's National Team head coach brought women's football in the Philippines to new heights and hope," PFF president Mariano Araneta said in a statement. "Coach Alen showed full dedication to hone the Filipinas into a fighting team. He will long be remembered as the coach who trained and dared the team to win at any international competition," Araneta said. Under Stajcic, the Philippines made the semi-finals of the Women's Asian Cup in early 2022, where they lost to South Korea but secured a historic World Cup berth. They followed it up with bronze at the Southeast Asian Games last year, then won the regional AFF Women's Championship on home soil. Stajcic was a major reason for the Philippines' improvement. He brought a wealth of experience after a playing and coaching career in Australia. He coached Australia at the 2015 World Cup and took the Matildas to as high as fourth in the FIFA rankings, but was dumped despite guiding them to the 2019 tournament. After the Philippines' loss to Norway, Stajcic said he was "proud of the heart and spirit" of the team, but ducked questions about his future as coach. "We will reflect on that for now and in the coming days we will start making plans for the future," he said. The post Philippines coach Stajcic steps down after Women’s World Cup exit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Araneta City displays different colors
Araneta City, a commercial, mixed-use development area in Cubao, Quezon City, became more colorful with celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Month last June, with its #EveryHueInYou campaign, aimed at celebrating the diversity of human sexuality and gender, and love and life in all its beautiful colors. Starting on 1 June, the #PRIDEstrian crossing at the intersection of General Aguinaldo Street and General Malvar Street (near Gateway Tower and New Frontier Theater) has been “yassified” to reflect the colors of the Pride flag, becoming Instagram-worthy. The Araneta City management also put up the #ForestOfHue, an art installation filled with colorful trees that people can come to and take their photos or TikTok videos at. The #ForestOfHue was installed at the Ali Mall Activity Area from 5 to 9 June; the Farmers Plaza Bazaar from 10 to 18 June; Gateway Mall Activity Area from 19 to 22 June; and the Farmers Plaza Activity Area from 24 to 30 June. [caption id="attachment_152998" align="aligncenter" width="1152"] Binibining Pilipinas queens at the #PRIDEstrian.[/caption] The City of Firsts also promoted HIV awareness by hosting the exhibit Tanggulan of photographer Niccolo Cosme. The exhibit showcased advocates like Miss Universe 2015 Universe Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey, Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2022 Gabrielle Basiano and Binibining Pilipinas International 2022 Nicole Borromeo in portraits that are painted using HIV+ blood. It was at the Gateway Gallery Studio from 8 to 18 June; Ali Mall Activity Area from 19 to 22 June; and Gateway Mall Activity Area from 23 to 30 June. “We support all members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Through installations like these, we are encouraging them to proudly show their true colors to the world. We know how important it is for members of the community to live their truth as authentically as possible, and we here at the City of Firsts are behind them all the way,” Marjorie Go, AVP for Marketing of Araneta City, said. Araneta City also challenged netizens to show their fierce side by joining the #RampaSaAraneta contest. They were encouraged to pose and sashay on the #PRIDEstrian and #ForestOfHue, upload entries on TikTok, tag Araneta City and use the hashtags #AranetaCity #RampaSaAraneta #CityOfFirsts for a chance to win exciting prizes, such as an overnight stay at Novotel Manila Araneta City and P5,000. The competition ran from 5 to 30 June. To help foster a more inclusive space for everyone at Araneta City, agency personnel underwent a special learning session on gender and sexuality led by Ameerah Milano, faculty member and coordinator of the Gender and Development Desk of the Academic Affairs Office of the Far Eastern University. The session aimed to educate participants on matters of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. “At Araneta City, we aim to foster a safe community where anyone can feel free and comfortable to be their true selves. This Pride Month, we express our solidarity and unwavering support for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community. They are always welcome to be who they are here in the City of Firsts,” Go said. The post Araneta City displays different colors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Video of tourism slogan just a primer — Frasco
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco on Wednesday clarified that the video that was unveiled on Tuesday, coinciding with the launch of its new campaign "Love the Philippines", is just a primer and may be developed in the coming days or weeks. Frasco’s clarification was amid the disappointment of Albay 2nd District Representative Joey Sarte Salceda for not including on the said video the majestic Mayon Volcano, the natural wonder representing his province, Albay. Salceda, in a statement on Wednesday, aired his displeasure to her friend Frasco for seemingly forgetting Mayon Volcano on the video of the tourism campaign. “I remain disappointed in my friend, Secretary Frasco, for the exclusion of Mayon Volcano in the new official tourism video of the Philippines. I am more disappointed in the response that I should not bring this issue up because, anyway, Mayon is included in the 50 major volcanoes and mountains represented (by a pixel!) in the official tourism logo and slogan,” the lawmaker said. Frasco was quick to answer, saying she recognizes their ties as allies and family friends for many years, extolling Salceda being a staunch ally for Philippine Tourism, “especially with his successes as the governor of Albay and we certainly honor and recognize the contributions of the province to the tourism portfolio of the country.” “The tourism video that has just been released by the Department of Tourism is only the beginning; for indeed, there is just so much to love about our country. So, I assure Congressman Joey Salceda that our effort to promote equally our destinations in the country will continue,” Frasco said. “This is just the beginning to give the world a flavor and a taste of the Philippines,” she added. Further, the Tourism secretary maintained that the Department is holding the "Philippine Experience: Heritage, Culture, and Arts Caravan" in the Bicol Region, adding, “It would have been this July but given the circumstances in the region at the moment, tentatively it has been set for August and our regional offices have been in coordination with our local government units there.” The hurt Salceda said in his statement that he expressed his frustration because tourism is disproportionately more crucial in Albay, and Bicol at large. “This is how thousands of Albayano families make a living. It would not have cost much to include just a scene of Mayon, but it would have meant the world to Albay families relying on tourism for their bread and butter,” he said. Moreover, the lawmaker stressed that Albay has the only international airport in South Luzon—Bicol International Airport, which the government calls "the most scenic international gateway in the country." He said per capita, Albay is one of the country's most important tourist destinations, while pre-pandemic, it attracted 1.32 tourists per resident, while the top region, Central Visayas, attracts just 1.17, and the national average is 0.55. “Bicol's economy depends heavily on tourism, more so than the rest of the country. Last year, accommodation and food service (the most direct sector affected by tourism) was 1.93% of total regional GDP, while the national average was 1.80 percent,” he said. “Just to demonstrate how affirmative support from the national government can be a game-changer for tourism: When I was governor of Albay, we increased foreign tourist arrivals from 8,700 in 2006 to 374,000 in 2015. Total tourist arrivals swelled from 123,000 to 1.4 million over the same period,” Salceda underlined. On the other hand, he said, “Mayon deserves better than a pixel in the logo where you need strained eyes to see it. Mayon has been a national symbol and a national treasure (one of only three UNESCO-declared biosphere reserves in the country).” Watch the video here: The post Video of tourism slogan just a primer — Frasco appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Championing accessible HIV testing and prevention
Teleperformance Philippines continues to uphold its commitment to making HIV testing and prevention more accessible by holding a program review and ceremonial turnover of wellness supplies and KISS (Keep It Safe & Sure) dispensers at its Vertis North site. KISS dispensers, which contain condoms, lubricants, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PreP) and HIV testing, were provided for in partnership with the Department of Health through their Project Red Ribbon Care Management Foundation and Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. Rachel Cacabelos, Teleperformance Philippines vice president for Human Resources, Communication and Marketing, praised the ceremony. “This would show that TP is one with the community, not only the community inside but outside. Because it’s an environment, an ecosystem that you need to bend, and TP cannot do this alone. We need to have partners, like private and government partners, who will help us further our advocacy for Teleperformance Philippines and all communities as well,” she stated. A review was also held of Telepeformance’s current policies and the cultural journey and milestones achieved from Teleperformance’s HIV prevention campaign, which began in 2015. The HIV in the Workplace Policy of Teleperformance is implemented under its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiatives, which the company has been championing, not just for its employees but also for the communities they have adopted. The post Championing accessible HIV testing and prevention appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PNP intensifies campaign vs ‘missing’ plates
Philippine National Police Chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. on Sunday has ordered law enforcement personnel to apprehend motorists plying the streets using motor vehicles with no license plates. The PNP chief stressed that the move is part of the PNP’s strict adherence to the “no-plate, no-travel” policy, which police authorities will implement with renewed vigor nationwide. “There are standing rules to this effect that motorists should be aware of. The PNP, through the Highway Patrol Group, will make sure such regulations are strictly followed,” he said. Acorda issued the directive during a command conference in Camp Crame last week and stressed that with the renewed campaign, the PNP hopes to curb the criminal activities of lawless elements using motor vehicles with no or fake license plates. He said not even the personnel of the PNP will be exempt from the implementation of this policy. Acorda said police officers should set an example by following even the simplest of regulations at all times. “Anyone of our personnel who will be caught doing this unlawful act will face the appropriate administrative and criminal charges,” he added. Meanwhile the PNP chief said that the PNP will closely coordinate with the Land Transportation Office in crafting more effective means to sustain the implementation of the “no-plate, no-travel” drive. All motor vehicles are required to have valid license plates under the “No-registration, No-Travel” policy contained in the 2015 Joint Administrative Order issued by the Department of Transportation and Communication and LTO. In the same order, a fine of P10,000 will be imposed on the owner of an unregistered vehicle, while the driver will have to pay a P1,000 fine. The post PNP intensifies campaign vs ‘missing’ plates appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl rallies climate-vulnerable nations to collective action
In the recent Climate Vulnerable Forum Regional Consultation for Asia, the Philippines underscored the importance of global collective action to transform developing countries’ vulnerabilities to climate resilience. “It is only through global collective action that we can transform our developing countries’ vulnerabilities, and avert, minimize and address existing losses and damages in order to achieve climate resilience,” Climate Change Commission vice chairperson and executive director Robert E.A. Borje said. Under the Ghana presidency, the CVF conducted regional consultations in the lead up to the 58th Session of the Subsidiary Bodies of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and the 28th Meeting of Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC. Prioritizing the following elements — global stocktake, accelerated adaptation action, loss and damage, 1.5 degrees Celsius ambition and climate finance — Borje emphasized the need to anchor climate action on the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, and climate justice. “Allow me to reiterate the importance of working on the principle of climate justice — for those who are least responsible for climate change, those with the least resources, and those who are most vulnerable and at risk, the world has to do more,” he said. “Conversely — for those most responsible for climate change, with the most resources, they need to do more. For us, this is climate justice,” he added. The CVF is composed of 58 vulnerable nations including the Philippines and is currently chaired by the government of Ghana. In 2015, the Philippines chaired the CVF. Under its presidency, the Vulnerable 20 group was officially founded, and the #1.5 degrees Celsius Campaign was launched ahead of the Conference of the Parties in Paris. During the consultation, the Philippines reiterated its support and commitment to the CVF and V20, as part of collective efforts in attaining the global climate agenda. The CCC also serves as the CVF National Focal Point of the Philippines, as does the Department of Finance in the V20. The CVF Regional Consultation for Asia was held in preparation for the upcoming climate change negotiations in June and November 2023, in Bonn, Germany and Dubai, United Arab Emirates, respectively. For updates on the Philippines participation in international climate negotiations, visit www.climate.gov.ph. The post Phl rallies climate-vulnerable nations to collective action appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Turkey’s Erdogan unveils new cabinet after inauguration
Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday unveiled a new cabinet lineup, naming a powerful spy chief as foreign minister and market-friendly Mehmet Simsek as finance minister, hours after swearing in for a third term as president. Erdogan took the oath of office in parliament after winning a historic runoff election to extend his two-decade rule and promised to serve "impartially". He also called for unity and the anger and resentment of the campaign to be set aside as he spoke during a lavish ceremony at his presidential palace in the capital Ankara attended by dozens of world leaders. Turkey's transformative but divisive leader won the May 28 runoff against a powerful opposition coalition, despite an economic crisis and anger over the response to a February earthquake that killed more than 50,000 people. Erdogan won 52.18 percent of the vote while his secular rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu scored 47.82 percent, official results show. "As president, I swear upon my honour and integrity, before the great Turkish nation... to work with all my power to protect the existence and independence of the state... and to fulfil my duty impartially," Erdogan said in parliament after a ceremony outside the building where he saluted soldiers under pouring rain. Supporters in parliament gave Erdogan a minute-long standing ovation after his swearing-in, while some opposition lawmakers refused to stand up. In his oath, Erdogan also promised not to deviate from the rule of law and the secular principles of the republic founded by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk 100 years ago. Turkey's longest-serving leader, who has survived mass protests, a corruption scandal and a failed coup attempt since he came to power in 2003, now faces significant immediate challenges in his third term, including the slowing economy and tensions with the West. New cabinet Erdogan changed almost all his cabinet members except for his health and culture ministers. He named former deputy prime minister Mehmet Simsek, a reassuring figure with international stature, as treasury and finance minister. Addressing the country's economic troubles will be Erdogan's first priority, with inflation running at 43.70 percent, partly due to his unorthodox policy of cutting interest rates to stimulate growth. A former Merrill Lynch economist, Simsek is known to oppose Erdogan's unconventional policies. He served as finance minister between 2009 and 2015 and deputy prime minister in charge of the economy until 2018, before stepping down ahead of a series of lira crashes that year. Erdogan appointed the head of the National Intelligence Organisation (MIT), Hakan Fidan, as foreign minister. Fidan has been at the helm of MIT since 2010 -- and Erdogan once called the 55-year-old his "secret keeper". Watch the video here: 'Let's make peace' Erdogan, standing next to his wife Emine, promised to embrace all segments of society during a ceremony at his palace earlier in the day. "We will embrace all 85 million people, regardless of their political views, origins, creeds or sects," he said, hoping that his appeal would be reciprocated also by his opponents. "Turkey needs unity and solidarity more than ever," he said. The polarization in society has deepened under the rule of Erdogan -- called "Reis" by his supporters ("the chief"). "We want all opposition segments, including journalists, writers, civil society, artists and politicians, to reconcile with the national will," he said. "If there is resentment, if hearts are broken, let's find a way to make peace." Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Iran's vice president Mohammad Mokhber, Hungary's right-wing Prime Minister Viktor Orban and the speaker of the lower house of Russia's parliament, Vyacheslav Volodin, were among the foreign guests at the ceremony. In the latest sign of a thaw between the two arch-foes, Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan was also present. NATO allies are anxiously waiting for Ankara to green-light Sweden's drive to join the US-led defence alliance, before a summit in July. Erdogan has delayed approving the application, accusing Stockholm of sheltering "terrorists" from the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) which is listed as a terror group by Ankara and its Western allies. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg and Sweden's former prime minister Carl Bildt, who attended the ceremony at Erdogan's palace, are expected to press him to drop his opposition to Stockholm's bid. The post Turkey’s Erdogan unveils new cabinet after inauguration appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tearful Biden ends Ireland trip with nod at re-election
US President Joe Biden ended an emotional visit to Ireland on Friday with a campaign-style exhortation for hope, as he inched closer to formally launching his 2024 bid. The 80-year-old Democrat, who has Catholic Irish roots, had a tearful encounter with a priest before a concluding speech that coincided with an angry address back home by Donald Trump, his potential Republican rival for next year's White House battle. "I told you my plan is to run again," Biden told reporters before flying to the United States. "I've already made that calculus. We'll announce it relatively soon. But the trip here just reinforced my sense of optimism about what can be done." Biden was feted by an estimated 27,000 people as he spoke in front of the floodlit St Muredach's Cathedral in Ballina, one of his family's ancestral hometowns, in northwest Ireland. In 1828, Biden's forebear Edward Blewitt sold the bricks that went into the construction of the Roman Catholic cathedral, using the money to fund his famine-stricken family's later emigration to the United States. The Irish and Americans were united by an optimistic vision, Biden said in the speech. "More than anything, hope is what beats in the hearts of all our people," he said, reprising the core message of his and Barack Obama's historic campaign in 2008. "Even during times of darkness and despair, hope has kept us marching forward toward a better future, one of a greater liberty, greater dignity and greater possibilities." Biden was in a more sorrowful mood earlier on a visit to the celebrated Roman Catholic pilgrimage shrine at Knock, near Ballina. Organizers made the last-minute discovery of a link between the Biden family and one of their priests, Father Frank O'Grady, who returned to Ireland after years serving as a chaplain in the US army. The president's son Beau Biden died of brain cancer aged 46 in 2015. Father O'Grady administered the last rites at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center outside Washington. O'Grady was not on the official guest list but was given hurried security clearance. Biden said it was "incredible" to meet by chance with the priest. "It seemed like a sign," he said of the 10-minute meeting, which was joined by his remaining son Hunter and the president's sister, Valerie Biden Owens. O'Grady told Irish broadcaster RTE that Biden "certainly misses his son" but that the president said his Catholic faith had "sustained him". "He has been grieving a lot, but I think the grief is kind of going down a bit," the priest said. Knock Shrine parish priest Richard Gibbons told the BBC that Biden "got the shock of his life" at discovering O'Grady's presence in Knock. "He was crying, it really affected him and then we said a prayer, said a decade of the rosary for his family. "He lit a candle and then he took a moment or two of private (reflection) for prayer." The US president went on to visit the Mayo Roscommon Hospice nearby with his son, sister, and Irish cousin Laurita Blewitt. In 2017, he came for the building's groundbreaking, and a plaque there commemorates Beau Biden. Biden then headed to the picturesque riverside town of Ballina, which was proudly displaying US flags and red, white and blue bunting as locals thronged the streets in anticipation. Ballina commissioned a five-meter-high (16-foot-high) mural of Biden when he won the 2020 presidential vote. Blewitt descendants still live in the town, where the Mocha Beans cafe changed its shop sign to read "Mocha Biden" for the occasion. "That buzz is incredible around Ballina today," the cafe's owner Trevor Mangan told AFP. As a baby, Flori Garvin was given a cuddly toy donkey by Biden when the Democrat visited Ballina as vice president. Now aged seven, she was back with her grandmother, Elizabeth Robinson, 63. "She hasn't stopped talking about it," Robinson said. "She thinks she's going to see him herself." The surrounding county of Mayo was the ancestral homeland of one branch of the Biden family, and the president also toured a genealogy center to find out more about his origins. Biden had declared in a speech Thursday to the Irish parliament: "I'm home." Ahead of a potential rematch against Trump, the president dwelt both at the parliament and the cathedral on the success of Irish emigres in carving out a new life far from home. "We Irish," he said on Friday, "we always believe in a better tomorrow because no matter what, we've always carried hope in our hearts." The post Tearful Biden ends Ireland trip with nod at re-election appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SEA GAMES: The silver that glittered like gold
When the editorial staff of ABS-CBN Sports was tasked to come up with our most memorable coverage, it didn’t take long for this writer to respond. The Philippine men’s volleyball team’s Southeast Asian Games semifinal match was the first thing that came to mind. Pesonally, that game against the highly-fancied Thailand squad topped all the countless volleyball matches that I’ve covered in my career. I’m at a loss for words on how to describe the emotions I felt that chilly night of December 8, 2019. Around 6,700 fans filled the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City not knowing that what they were about to witness was something historic. A magical night that would take away the frustrations they felt the day before when the more popular women’s team finished the preliminary round winless. For us sportswriters covering that assignment, we knew the Filipinos were up for a tough ride. Thailand ruled the last four editions of the event. On the other hand, the Philippines’ last significant outing in the biennial meet was a bronze medal finish back in 1991 – or when the current national team’s oldest member, setter Jessie Lopez was just five-years old. Did we doubt our own team? Let’s just say we prayed to the high heavens to give us something positive to write about. But don’t get us wrong. Those who followed the formation and preparation of the squad knew it would yield results come the SEA Games. After all, in all three batches of the Nationals that participated in the regional sports meet since 2015, this particular team had the longest time to prepare – around eight months to be exact. The team’s composition itself looked really promising. For the first time, two of country’s best hitters in Marck Espejo and Bryan Bagunas, who both have experience playing in the Japan V. League, donned the tricolors together. Espejo returned after skipping the 2017 edition so did his teammates in the 2015 squad Rex Intal and setter Ish Polvorosa. Bagunas was on his second tour of duty along with team captain John Vic De Guzman, Mark Alfafara, RanRan Abdilla and libero Jack Kalingking. Head coach Dante Alinsunurin, who was appointed to handle the team after Oliver Almadro and Sammy Acaylar in 2015 and 2017, respectively, tapped an old hand in Lopez and injected young bloods in playmaker Owa Retamar, Jau Umandal, Kim Malabunga, Ricky Marcos and Francis Saura. As part of their buildup the Nationals joined the Thailand Open Sealect Tuna Championship July last year. The Filipinos achieved a great feat when they won bronze. Fans were able to witness the Nationals’ campaign via YouTube streaming while we volleyball writers, got to file our full stories through the help of De Guzman and Bagunas (God bless their beautiful hearts) who supplied us with game stats and granted postgame interviews. It’s just a shame I never got to cover the team’s training in Japan when the Nationals’ preparation went on full throttle. (Note: A little confusion in the training camp coverage assignments had me flying to Japan with the women’s squad and Lance Agcaoili of Spin.ph joining the men’s team. But it was a great experience, nonetheless, and I’m grateful for Larong Volleyball sa Pilipinas, Inc. for the opportunity.) I was as confused as the other sportswriters present during the draw for the group stage a couple of months before the SEA Games when Alinsunurin chose to join the four-team bracket with Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia. Those three teams are considered contenders every SEA Games edition. And earning a semifinal spot would be harder compared to the other group composed of Thailand, Myanmar and Singapore. Fortunately, the gamble was worth it. Espejo and Bagunas were superb offensively, Malabunga and Retamar made their presence felt and the Nationals’ blocking shocked Cambodia and Vietnam as the Filipinos swept them both to secure a semis seat. Then came the steamrolling Indonesians. Honestly, I thought the Nationals would sweep their way to the group’s top seeding. That way the PHI’s would've avoided a semis clash with Thailand. Forced to take on the defending champions, the Filipinos found themselves down in the first set. They got back in the second frame before yielding the third. And when the Thais came to match point, 24-21, in the fourth we all thought it was over. Fans were slowly emptying the bleachers not wanting to see the impending defeat. I was already waiting for the final score. Ready break the result. Then a miracle happened. The Nationals nibbled on the Thais' lead to force a deuce. After another deadlock, the Filipinos stole the set. The fifth frame was classic story of ‘who wants it more will win.’ An extended set made it even more dramatic. I vividly remember that sequence when Bagunas hammered the game-clinching kill off a lob from Lopez. After that all that I can recall was me pumping my fist up in the air and slapping the hardest high-fives I ever did with those inside the press room while howling like a madman. The national team assured itself of a silver after 42 years. A silver after four freaking decades. They did it. Of course, the Indonesians bullied their way to winning the gold medal in a sweep of the inexperienced Filipinos. But who cares, the host team exceeded its podium expectations. That silver that glittered like gold made that coverage truly memorable. But it never crossed my mind that it would be the last important volleyball event that I will get to report. (Note: It would’ve been the UAAP if not for the health crisis that put all sporting events to a halt. Sad.) And that’s why I ended up writing these last few paragraphs. A farewell from this section. From my first article for this website back on December 1, 2014 – a post-mortem of Petron’s breakthrough title in the Philippine Superliga Grand Prix – to my last published story, these were all written with only one thing in mind: in the service of the Filipino sports fan worldwide. Our run may have not been perfect, of course, we had our flaws. We had our fair share of criticisms from fans, athletes, sports personalities and sometimes even from our partner leagues and properties. We accepted our shortcomings. We tried to be better. But we are proud of what we did. We take pride with how we delivered sports stories through various digital executions that showcased sports beyond the confines of competition. On midnight of September 1 while most of you lay sound asleep, deep in slumber, hopefully, having a good dream and hours away from waking up looking forward to a better day, this website will be snapped out of existence. More than half a decade of sharing stories to the Filipino sports fan will be seeing its last presence online on Monday – a holiday to celebrate the nation’s heroes. This website will then hear its final buzzer, its final whistle. Thousands of articles – written with passion, dedication and love – will be taken down as this website goes offline together with majority of ABS-CBN Sports’ social media accounts. But soon, hopefully, it will once again see the light of day. We do hope that you will remember us, for we will remember all of you who made us your Kapamilya. -- 30 -- --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @fromtheriles Mark Escarlote has served as a sub-section editor for ABS-CBN Sports' website since 2014. He is among thousands of ABS-CBN employees who will be retrenched on August 31, 2020. .....»»
SEA GAMES: The silver that glittered like gold
When the editorial staff of ABS-CBN Sports was tasked to come up with our most memorable coverage, it didn’t take long for this writer to respond. The Philippine men’s volleyball team’s Southeast Asian Games semifinal match was the first thing that came to mind. Pesonally, that game against the highly-fancied Thailand squad topped all the countless volleyball matches that I’ve covered in my career. I’m at a loss for words on how to describe the emotions I felt that chilly night of December 8, 2019. Around 6,700 fans filled the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City not knowing that what they were about to witness was something historic. A magical night that would take away the frustrations they felt the day before when the more popular women’s team finished the preliminary round winless. For us sportswriters covering that assignment, we knew the Filipinos were up for a tough ride. Thailand ruled the last four editions of the event. On the other hand, the Philippines’ last significant outing in the biennial meet was a bronze medal finish back in 1991 – or when the current national team’s oldest member, setter Jessie Lopez was just five-years old. Did we doubt our own team? Let’s just say we prayed to the high heavens to give us something positive to write about. But don’t get us wrong. Those who followed the formation and preparation of the squad knew it would yield results come the SEA Games. After all, in all three batches of the Nationals that participated in the regional sports meet since 2015, this particular team had the longest time to prepare – around eight months to be exact. The team’s composition itself looked really promising. For the first time, two of country’s best hitters in Marck Espejo and Bryan Bagunas, who both have experience playing in the Japan V. League, donned the tricolors together. Espejo returned after skipping the 2017 edition so did his teammates in the 2015 squad Rex Intal and setter Ish Polvorosa. Bagunas was on his second tour of duty along with team captain John Vic De Guzman, Mark Alfafara, RanRan Abdilla and libero Jack Kalingking. Head coach Dante Alinsunurin, who was appointed to handle the team after Oliver Almadro and Sammy Acaylar in 2015 and 2017, respectively, tapped an old hand in Lopez and injected young bloods in playmaker Owa Retamar, Jau Umandal, Kim Malabunga, Ricky Marcos and Francis Saura. As part of their buildup the Nationals joined the Thailand Open Sealect Tuna Championship July last year. The Filipinos achieved a great feat when they won bronze. Fans were able to witness the Nationals’ campaign via YouTube streaming while we volleyball writers, got to file our full stories through the help of De Guzman and Bagunas (God bless their beautiful hearts) who supplied us with game stats and granted postgame interviews. It’s just a shame I never got to cover the team’s training in Japan when the Nationals’ preparation went on full throttle. (Note: A little confusion in the training camp coverage assignments had me flying to Japan with the women’s squad and Lance Agcaoili of Spin.ph joining the men’s team. But it was a great experience, nonetheless, and I’m grateful for Larong Volleyball sa Pilipinas, Inc. for the opportunity.) I was as confused as the other sportswriters present during the draw for the group stage a couple of months before the SEA Games when Alinsunurin chose to join the four-team bracket with Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia. Those three teams are considered contenders every SEA Games edition. And earning a semifinal spot would be harder compared to the other group composed of Thailand, Myanmar and Singapore. Fortunately, the gamble was worth it. Espejo and Bagunas were superb offensively, Malabunga and Retamar made their presence felt and the Nationals’ blocking shocked Cambodia and Vietnam as the Filipinos swept them both to secure a semis seat. Then came the steamrolling Indonesians. Honestly, I thought the Nationals would sweep their way to the group’s top seeding. That way the PHI’s would've avoided a semis clash with Thailand. Forced to take on the defending champions, the Filipinos found themselves down in the first set. They got back in the second frame before yielding the third. And when the Thais came to match point, 24-21, in the fourth we all thought it was over. Fans were slowly emptying the bleachers not wanting to see the impending defeat. I was already waiting for the final score. Ready break the result. Then a miracle happened. The Nationals nibbled on the Thais' lead to force a deuce. After another deadlock, the Filipinos stole the set. The fifth frame was classic story of ‘who wants it more will win.’ An extended set made it even more dramatic. I vividly remember that sequence when Bagunas hammered the game-clinching kill off a lob from Lopez. After that all that I can recall was me pumping my fist up in the air and slapping the hardest high-fives I ever did with those inside the press room while howling like a madman. The national team assured itself of a silver after 42 years. A silver after four freaking decades. They did it. Of course, the Indonesians bullied their way to winning the gold medal in a sweep of the inexperienced Filipinos. But who cares, the host team exceeded its podium expectations. That silver that glittered like gold made that coverage truly memorable. But it never crossed my mind that it would be the last important volleyball event that I will get to report. (Note: It would’ve been the UAAP if not for the health crisis that put all sporting events to a halt. Sad.) And that’s why I ended up writing these last few paragraphs. A farewell from this section. From my first article for this website back on December 1, 2014 – a post-mortem of Petron’s breakthrough title in the Philippine Superliga Grand Prix – to my last published story, these were all written with only one thing in mind: in the service of the Filipino sports fan worldwide. Our run may have not been perfect, of course, we had our flaws. We had our fair share of criticisms from fans, athletes, sports personalities and sometimes even from our partner leagues and properties. We accepted our shortcomings. We tried to be better. But we are proud of what we did. We take pride with how we delivered sports stories through various digital executions that showcased sports beyond the confines of competition. On midnight of September 1 while most of you lay sound asleep, deep in slumber, hopefully, having a good dream and hours away from waking up looking forward to a better day, this website will be snapped out of existence. More than half a decade of sharing stories to the Filipino sports fan will be seeing its last presence online on Monday – a holiday to celebrate the nation’s heroes. This website will then hear its final buzzer, its final whistle. Thousands of articles – written with passion, dedication and love – will be taken down as this website goes offline together with majority of ABS-CBN Sports’ social media accounts. But soon, hopefully, it will once again see the light of day. We do hope that you will remember us, for we will remember all of you who made us your Kapamilya. -- 30 -- --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @fromtheriles Mark Escarlote has served as a sub-section editor for ABS-CBN Sports' website since 2014. He is among thousands of ABS-CBN employees who will be retrenched on August 31, 2020. .....»»