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Malta hosts fresh round of Ukraine-backed peace talks
A third round of Ukrainian-backed peace talks opened in Malta Saturday with representatives from more than 60 countries but without Moscow, which denounced it as a "blatantly anti-Russian event". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the first of two days of closed-door talks among national security and policy advisors, which he hopes will drum up support for his 10-point plan to end the war. In a statement on social media afterward, he said 66 countries had taken part in the talks, proof that his plan "has gradually become global". It follows similar meetings in Jeddah and Copenhagen this summer, with the Ukrainians hoping to eventually hold a summit at the level of heads of state. "The meeting confirmed the broad interest and increasing support for the key elements of Ukraine's Peace Formula," an EU official said Saturday. Against the backdrop of the Hamas-Israel war, it also showed "that restoration of just peace is important beyond Ukraine -- it is about a global plea for respect of international law". Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova however has dismissed the Malta talks as a "blatantly anti-Russian event". They had "nothing to do with the search for a peaceful resolution", she said on Thursday. "Obviously such gatherings have absolutely no perspective, they are simply counterproductive." China absent Participants in Malta included the United States, the EU, and Britain, staunch supporters of Kyiv following Russia's February 2022 invasion. Turkey, which has offered itself as a mediator between Ukraine and Russia, was also represented, according to a list seen by AFP before the talks opened. So too were South Africa, Brazil, and India -- all members of the influential BRICS bloc, which also includes Russia. South Africa and India have not condemned Russia's invasion, while Brazil has refused to join Western nations in sending arms to Ukraine or imposing sanctions on Moscow. China, which insists it is neutral and refuses to criticize the invasion, did not attend, despite being present in Jeddah in August, according to the EU official. Organizers were hoping for a joint statement from the Malta summit after both previous meetings ended without a final declaration. Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine's presidential office, said on Telegram that the discussions on Saturday were "lively" and focused on five key areas, notably the issue of Ukraine's territorial integrity. Zelensky's peace plan calls for Russia to withdraw all its troops from Ukraine's internationally recognized borders, including from the territory of Crimea, which it annexed in 2014. Russia, which claimed last year to have annexed the four Ukrainian regions of Lugansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia, has rejected any settlement that would involve giving up land. The Malta talks are also looking at nuclear security, notably the need to ensure the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and how to protect Ukraine's energy infrastructure as winter approaches. The issue of food security was also on the agenda, as Russia blocks grain exports from Ukraine; and humanitarian issues, including the release of prisoners and the return of Ukrainian children to taken to Russia. "Russia will have to give in to the international community. It will have to accept our common conditions," Yermak said. Both Russia and Ukraine are preparing for a grueling winter ahead, with Ukraine warning of renewed strikes on its energy infrastructure and Russia pushing back against Kyiv's counteroffensive. The post Malta hosts fresh round of Ukraine-backed peace talks appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Prize builder
Aboitiz Land, renowned for its quality and innovation in real estate, achieved success at The Outlook by Lamudi Awards 2023 in September. The prestigious event at Shangri-La Fort witnessed Aboitiz Land securing multiple accolades, underscoring unwavering commitment to creating distinctive living spaces for the community. Seafront Residences takes second consecutive win for Best Premium House (Luzon). It features generously spread amenities including diamond parks fronting Budji+Royal houses, beachfront clubhouse and a town center that will offer well-curated retail and F&B establishments. Offering premier seaside living, Seafront Residences is a unique experience for those seeking the perfect balance between luxury and coastal beauty. Ajoya Cabanatuan, located in Barangay Valle Cruz, Nueva Ecija, has been awarded the Best Affordable House in Luzon for 2023. It offers well-designed homes and carefully planned amenities, providing residents with spacious open areas and a well-maintained environment. Additionally, the homes are designed to suit the local climate, ensuring a comfortable and sustainable living experience. What sets Ajoya Cabanatuan apart is its accessibility for the mid-market segment. While access to generous green open spaces is often associated with high-end projects, Aboitiz Land has extended these amenities to cater to the mid-market segment. This inclusivity ensures that more individuals and families can enjoy the benefits of modern living without compromising quality or comfort. Amoa has garnered recognition as the Bronze Awardee for Affordable House of the Year for Visayas and Mindanao. Amoa boasts carefully designed neighborhoods and a one-hectare central amenity, making it an ideal community for families in search of a comfortable living experience in Compostela, Cebu. By offering urban living amidst a serene natural setting, Amoa reflects Aboitiz Land’s commitment to delivering affordable, quality living spaces. Aboitiz Land recognized as Bronze Awardee for Developer of the Year and Digital Innovator of the Year. Aboitiz Land’s dedication to making strides in real estate development has been acknowledged with the Bronze Award for Developer of the Year for Visayas and Mindanao and Digital Innovator of the Year. This dual recognition reflects the company’s innovative approaches, including the introduction of OneVecino, their digital ecosystem. OneVecino aims to assist home seekers in various aspects such as property search, payments, customer support, and property management. This achievement underscores Aboitiz Land’s commitment to leveraging digital technologies to enhance the overall experience for all stakeholders in the industry. Moreover, Aboitiz Land is a developer known for its premium and exclusive communities in Cebu, including North Town Homes, Mahogany Grove, Pristina North, Priveya Hills and Foressa Mountain Town. These communities continue to be among the most respected in terms of quality and value in the region. The Outlook by Lamudi Awards is an esteemed event that spotlights industry leaders and outstanding projects in the Philippine real estate landscape. The post Prize builder appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CAAP adopts Borongan’s airport-building style
BORONGAN CITY — It was the necessity of getting a direct flight started the soonest that prompted the local government here to build its own airport, albeit in a novel and most cost-effective way given its limited budget. But the novel idea of using a modular construction system in the construction of an airport terminal gave the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines the idea on how it will build airport terminals in the future across the country. Rupert Ambil, Borongan City Information Officer and Flights Operation Chairman of the Borongan City Airport, said the city is the first local government unit in the country to construct its own airport terminal. “Thanks to the innovative design by the engineering team and the remarkable speed at which this project was completed, the CAAP is now adopting the modular design for other airports in the country,” Ambil said. On Thursday, CAAP issued a statement that it will be expanding the use of its modular construction system to more airports across the country, following its completion at Borongan Airport. “CAAP is actively implementing alternative approaches to swiftly address the concerns of passengers such as check-in areas and passenger terminal buildings with limited spaces,” CAAP said. “To address these areas for development, CAAP aims to create more spacious, efficient, and passenger-friendly environments that meet international standards and accommodate the increasing passenger volume of airports,” it added. “The modular construction system, which initially piloted at Borongan Airport, offers a sustainable approach to constructing terminal facilities with passenger amenities, as it minimizes construction waste. It uses pre-fabricated structural steel, a sustainable and cost-effective approach that allows for flexibility in design and rapid construction.” CAAP said it has identified additional airports where the construction system will be implemented. One of them is the Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro where construction aimed to increase passenger movement is set to start in December 2023 with a total budget of P36 million. The post CAAP adopts Borongan’s airport-building style appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CAAP to explore alternative approaches for sustainability in airports
Following its completion at Borongan Airport, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) will extend the use of its modular construction method to two additional airports throughout the country. In order to quickly address passenger concerns, CAAP is aggressively implementing alternative strategies, such as check-in areas and passenger terminal buildings (PTBs) with constrained space. In order to address these untapped potentials, CAAP seeks to construct surroundings that are both compliant with international standards and conducive to travelers while also being more roomy, effective, and welcoming. CAAP said that the modular construction system, which was initially piloted at Borongan Airport, offers a sustainable approach to constructing terminal facilities with passenger amenities as it minimizes construction waste. It uses pre-fabricated structural steel, a sustainable and cost-effective approach that allows for flexibility in design and rapid construction. In addition, the extra modules will integrate perfectly with the current buildings, producing a unified and contemporary terminal environment. On the strength of Borongan Airport's accomplishments, CAAP has selected two new airports where this building system will be used. With a budget of 36 million pesos, Laguindingan Airport is scheduled to start construction by December 2023 and is anticipated to be operational after six (6) months. Ozamis Airport is also being considered for the new construction system in order to support the increased passenger traffic. CAAP Director General Captain Manuel Antonio Tamayo shared his enthusiasm, stating, "We are keen on bringing the benefits of the modular construction system to more airports nationwide as it will pave the way for us to prioritize sustainability in our development projects." In addition to the expansion of the use of modular construction systems, CAAP also shares that turboprop operations in its airports do not require the use of boarding bridges, and these operations can be extended to principal Class 1 airports with the same aircraft type. DG Tamayo added that as passenger demands continue to grow, CAAP dedicates itself to ensuring that airports across the country are equipped to meet the changing demands of air travel while maintaining sustainability and innovation. The post CAAP to explore alternative approaches for sustainability in airports appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NSC eyes recalibrating NTF-ELCAC’s efforts with CBCP
National Security Adviser Eduardo Año on Saturday said the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict is mulling to recalibrate its efforts as the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines’s Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs joined the task force. “We welcome the CBCP through its Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs to the NTF-ELCAC Executive Committee and we look forward to working with them in pursuing peace and development in all parts of the country, especially in conflict-affected areas,” he said. Año said the task force is open to suggestions from the Church in adopting “moral and ethical approaches in addressing communist insurgency” as mentioned by CBCP President and Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David in his recent statement. “We are opening the doors of NTF-ELCAC to the Church because it has an important role to play in ending violence and terrorism in the country,” Año said. “For more than 50 years, we have lived under the scourge of the communist armed conflict. With peace now in sight, the Church has an important role to play in ensuring peace and development in the long term,” he added. Having CBCP in the NTF-ELCAC, Año believes that concerns raised by the Church or by cause-oriented groups supported by them could be immediately addressed. "Because of this development, the Church will have more opportunity to relay its concerns, since its mandate is to act as a liaison of the CBCP to government,” he said, citing the attendance of Fr. Jerome Secillano during the NTF-ELCAC executive committee meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Malacañang on Friday. Año reiterated that the task force’s main mandate is to formulate “whole-of-nation” policies to end armed conflict in the country. “CBCP’s membership in the task force ensures a whole of nation's participation because the religious sector is an important component of the nation,” he added. Año sees that CBCP could make significant contributions to the development of areas previously under the influence of the New People’s Army as well as facilitating social inclusivity in pursuit of peace progress. The post NSC eyes recalibrating NTF-ELCAC’s efforts with CBCP appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NTF-ELCAC gives Church a seat
The Catholic Church will play a more significant role in the anti-insurgency effort through a recalibrated National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, or NTF-ELCAC, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said yesterday. The task force will now have the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs as a member. “We welcome the CBCP through its Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs to the NTF-ELCAC Executive Committee and we look forward to working with them in pursuing peace and development in all parts of the country, especially in conflict-affected areas,” Año said. The task force indicated an openness to suggestions from the Church in adopting “moral and ethical approaches in addressing the communist insurgency,” as cited by CBCP president and Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David in a recent statement. “We are opening the door of NTF-ELCAC to the Church because it has an important role to play in ending violence and terrorism in the country,” Año said. “For more than 50 years, we have lived with the scourge of the communist armed conflict. With peace now in sight, the Church has an important role to play in ensuring peace and development in the long term,” he added. With the CBCP in the NTF-ELCAC, Año believes that concerns raised by the Church or by cause-oriented groups supported by them could be immediately addressed. “Because of this development, the Church will have more opportunity to relay its concerns, since its mandate is to act as a liaison of the CBCP to the government,” he said, citing the attendance of Fr. Jerome Secillano at the NTF-ELCAC executive committee meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Malacañang on Friday. Año reiterated that the task force’s main mandate is to formulate “whole-of-nation” policies to end armed conflict in the country. “CBCP’s membership in the task force ensures a whole-of-nation’s participation because the religious sector is an important component of the nation,” he said. Intervention in influenced areas Año sees the CBCP making significant contributions to the development of areas previously under the influence of the New People’s Army, as well as facilitating social inclusivity in the pursuit of peace. “Given that we are now on the road to total victory, it’s necessary that we recalibrate the way we do things and the entry of the CBCP to the NTF-ELCAC is one of the changes we have implemented under the Marcos administration,” he said. More rebels rejoin society NTF-ELCAC also expressed optimism the government can sustain its peace-building effort to encourage more rebels to reintegrate into mainstream society. At a forum on Saturday, NTF-ELCAC director Alexander Umpar said that in 2023, a total of 959 villages cleared of the insurgency were included in the Barangay Development Program or BDP, an initiative that aims to bring sustainable development programs to conflict-prone and conflict-affected communities. Under the BDP, each village recipient receives a package of programs, activities, and projects worth a maximum of P20 million. BDP beneficiaries in 2021 and 2022 numbered 822 and 1,406, respectively, he said. Umpar said the NTF-ELCAC is confident that by 2028, it would have attained its goal of achieving lasting peace and development in areas that are vulnerable to armed conflict. “‘By 2028, it is about sustaining the momentum of NTF-ELCAC gains with regard to the dismantling of guerrilla fronts, the reintegration of former rebels, and most of all, building resiliency for our communities under the ambit of good governance toward unity, peace and development,” he said. The government, he said, has dismantled 69 of 89 guerrilla fronts since the creation of the task force in 2018. One of the 20 remaining guerrilla fronts, he said, is active while 19 others had weakened. “‘When we say strategic victory, this (because) of the 19 weakened guerrilla fronts and only one is left to be confronted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he said. “There are still concerns about the armed groups but they are no longer able to initiate an armed struggle or to topple our government. So, that’s the strategic victory,” Umpar said. On the other hand, NTF-ELCAC director Jose Descallar urged rebels to give up and join the government in its goal of transforming the country into a “new Philippines.” He said the military could shift its focus to “external threats,” once the government is able to address the local insurgency. Meanwhile, Director Emmanuel Santos of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity said the conduct of localized peace engagements has been proven to be the “most effective” approach in addressing the communist insurgency. “We’re localizing the engagement so we will be closer to the people to make them feel that the government is really here,” Santos said. He added, however, that there should be “clear directions” to ensure the full reintegration of FRs into mainstream society. The post NTF-ELCAC gives Church a seat appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Super Typhoon Goring affects nearly ‘200k’ people, infra damage reaches P41-M
Supertyphoon Goring has already battered some 56,410 families equivalent to 196,926 individuals with a total of P41,175,000 worth of damage to infrastructures as of Wednesday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said. The latest data from NDRRMC showed that the inclement weather has displaced 48,997 individuals from 832 barangays in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas and the Cordillera Administrative Region. Of the number, 9,608 families equivalent to 35,095 persons are now being sheltered in 376 activated evacuation centers while another 3,407 families, or 13,902 persons are being aided outside. No casualties were reported but the NDRRMC said it was verifying a report on a missing individual. Also, it has yet to report on the cost of agricultural damage due to Goring. Some 28 roads and 19 bridges remained not passable with six areas experiencing power interruption in Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Western Visayas, CAR, and Mimaropa. While two areas in Calabarzon and Western Visayas have no water supply. NDRRMC said six flights were canceled in Cagayan Valley while a total of 67 seaports were affected in Cagayan Valley, Calabazon, Mimaropa, and Western Visayas. The government said it has already provided a total of P7,844,038 worth of assistance to the typhoon-affected families. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration said Super Typhoon “Goring” continues to maintain strength as it approaches the northwestern boundary of the Philippine Area of Responsibility. PAGASA said “Goring” is forecast to follow a mainly west-northwestward path across the Luzon Strait from today until it exits the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) tonight or tomorrow morning. Outside the PAR region, the “Goring” will continue its west-northwestward movement for the remainder of tomorrow before turning more westward on Friday while slowing down, then west-southwestward on Saturday. “Goring” is likely to remain as a super typhoon until Friday. “Increasingly unfavorable conditions over the waters off the coast of Guangdong will trigger a weakening trend and by Monday, Goring will have weakened into a severe tropical storm,” PAGASA said in its advisory. Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 is still hoisted over the Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Ilocos Norte, the northern portion of Apayao (Luna, Santa Marcela, Calanasan), and the northwestern portion of Cagayan (Pamplona, Claveria, Ballesteros, Abulug, Sanchez-Mira, Santa Praxedes). PAGASA warned there is a moderate to high risk of storm surge which may cause flooding in the low-lying and exposed coastal areas of Batanes and the northern and western portions of Babuyan Islands. The southwest monsoon enhanced by “Goring” may bring a significant amount of rains over the Zambales, Bataasn, and Northern portion of Palawan, including Calamian, Cuyo Islands, and Occidental Mindoro and Pangasinan over the next three days. Super Typhoon “Goring” was last tracked at 1185 km West of Itbayat, Batanes, packing maximum sustained winds of 195 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 240 kph while moving west-northwestward at 15 kph. The post Super Typhoon Goring affects nearly ‘200k’ people, infra damage reaches P41-M appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Flood warning up as hurricane slams into Mexico, California
Hurricane Hilary threatened to bring strong winds, flash floods and “life-threatening” surf and rip current conditions in Mexico and California this weekend, the United States National Hurricane Center has warned. The warning prompted residents and workers in Cabo San Lucas, a resort city on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, to put up protective boarding, lay sandbags and store furniture as protection against expected large waves crashing ashore on Friday. In the US, “rainfall amounts of three to six inches, with isolated amounts of 10 inches, are expected across portions of southern California and southern Nevada. Dangerous to locally catastrophic flooding will be possible,” the NHC said. Hilary was located about 285 miles southwest of Cabo San Lucas with maximum sustained winds of 230 kilometers an hour, according to the NHC. “On the forecast track, the center of Hilary will move close to the west coast of the Baja California peninsula over the weekend and reach southern California by Sunday night,” it forecast. “Weakening is expected to begin by Saturday, but Hilary will still be a hurricane when it approaches the west coast of the Baja California peninsula Saturday night and Sunday. Hilary is expected to weaken to a tropical storm by late Sunday before it reaches southern California,” the NHC added. A hurricane warning was issued for a stretch of coastline in Baja California from Punta Abreojos to Cabo San Quintin, and a hurricane watch north from there to Ensenada. Across the border, an unusual tropical storm watch was in effect from the California/Mexico border to Point Mugu in Ventura County, as well as for Catalina Island, according to the NHC. The storm brought rain and rough seas to areas along Mexico’s southwestern Pacific coast, including the tourist resort of Acapulco. WITH AFP The post Flood warning up as hurricane slams into Mexico, California appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Major hurricane heads toward northwest Mexico, California
Mexico braced Friday for the arrival of a powerful Pacific hurricane that also prompted an unusual tropical storm watch for southern California, where heavy rain and possible flooding were expected. Hurricane Hilary threatened to bring strong winds, flash flooding, and "life-threatening" surf and rip current conditions to Mexico's Baja California peninsula, the US National Hurricane Center said. Businesses in the Mexican tourist resort of Cabo San Lucas began preparing for the storm's arrival, laying sandbags and putting away furniture as large waves crashed ashore. Hilary was packing maximum sustained winds of about 145 miles (230 kilometers) an hour, according to the NHC. That made it a Category Four hurricane -- the second-most powerful on the Saffir-Simpson scale of one to five. "On the forecast track, the center of Hilary will move close to the west coast of the Baja California peninsula over the weekend and reach southern California by Sunday night," the NHC forecast. Hilary was located about 360 miles southwest of Cabo San Lucas on the southern tip of Baja California, it said. A hurricane warning was issued for a stretch of coastline in Baja California from Punta Abreojos to Punta Eugenia, and a hurricane watch from north of Punta Eugenia to Ensenada. A tropical storm watch was in effect from the California/Mexico border to the Orange/Los Angeles County Line and for Catalina Island, according to the NHC. "Fluctuations in intensity are likely over the next day or so," it predicted. "Weakening is expected to begin by Saturday, but Hilary will still be a hurricane when it approaches the west coast of the Baja California peninsula Saturday night and Sunday. Hilary is expected to weaken to a tropical storm by Sunday afternoon before it reaches southern California," it added. The storm brought rain and rough seas to areas along Mexico's southwestern Pacific coast, including the tourist resort of Acapulco. In the United States, "rainfall amounts of three to six inches, with isolated amounts of 10 inches, are expected across portions of southern California and southern Nevada. Rare and dangerous flooding will be possible," the NHC said. Hurricanes hit Mexico every year on both its Pacific and Atlantic coasts, usually between May and November. Although their remnants sometimes affect California, it is rare for cyclones to hit the US state with tropical storm intensity. The post Major hurricane heads toward northwest Mexico, California appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go boosts fire victims’ recovery in Cebu City
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has remained steadfast in his dedication to assisting disaster victims as shown by his team’s relief operations on Monday, 14 August, to communities affected by fires in Cebu City. Go’s team, in coordination with Mayor Mike Rama, Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), assisted 103 recovering fire victims gathered at the Atillo Gymnasium in Barangay Punta Princesa. DTI provided livelihood assistance through its Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program which Go pushed for during the Duterte administration and continues to support its implementation in order to boost livelihood recovery of those affected by various crises. In addition to the livelihood support, Go’s team provided shirts and masks to all beneficiaries, and a pair of shoes, a watch, a cellular phone, and balls for basketball to select recipients. “Sa panahon ng kahirapan at pagsubok dulot ng iba't-ibang sakuna, nais namin sa inyo'y magbigay ng pag-asa at tulong na magbibigay daan sa inyong mga pangarap. Ang programa na ito ay hindi lamang simpleng tulong kundi isang oportunidad upang makabangon at makamtan ang mas magandang kinabukasan,” stressed Go. Go underscored the crucial role of DTI’s PPG program in providing opportunities for sustainable income generation and the agency’s dedication to assisting affected communities in their journey toward recovery and rebuilding their lives. “Palaguin niyo ang inyong negosyo. Kapag lumago ang inyong negosyo, dalhin niyo po ang mga kita sa inyong mga pamilya... mas masarap sa pakiramdam kapag pinagpawisan at pinaghirapan niyo po ang inyong pagnenegosyo,” he added. In a video message, Go highlighted his other efforts to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and recovery strategies on a broader scale. He also asked for support for the passage of Senate Bill No. 188, which aims to establish the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR). The proposed legislation envisions a new government department led by a cabinet secretary, focusing on comprehensive approaches to strengthen disaster preparedness across the country. The DDR's core areas of concentration include disaster risk reduction, disaster preparedness, response and recovery, and the advancement of resilience. “Mayro’n rin po ako nai-file na Department of Disaster Resilience, ito pong departamento na ito, a cabinet-secretary level na siya po ang makikipag-coordinate bago pa dumating ‘yung bagyo at ilikas po ang mga kababayan natin sa ligtas na lugar at preposition of goods,” Go explained. “Part rin po ito ng trabaho nila ang disaster-related tulad ng sunog. Kapag may lindol, sunog, bagyo at itong pagputok ng bulkan, ilikas na kaagad sa mga ligtas na lugar. Iyan po ang Department of Disaster Resilience at restoration of normalcy kaagad,” he added. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 in Cebu City after he personally witnessed the struggles of financially incapacitated Filipinos in getting medical assistance from the government. It was later institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which he principally sponsored and authored. To date, there are 158 Malasakit Centers, including those at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), Cebu City Medical Center, and St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital, that have helped over seven million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health (DOH). Other Malasakit Centers in the province are located at Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City, Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital, Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City, and Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City. Moreover, Go said DOH has identified areas to construct Super Health Centers (SHCs) in the province. SHCs were funded to be established in the cities of Bogo, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandaue; and in the towns of Borbon, Cordova, Moalboal, Samboan, and San Francisco in 2022. This year, more Super Health Centers were funded in the cities of Carcar, Cebu, Talisay, and Toledo; and in the towns of Carmen, Consolacion, Liloan, Medellin, and San Nicolas. An additional SHC will also be established in Danao City. “Ang isang malaking bagay dito ay ang early detection kung may sakit ang isang pasyente. Dahil nasa kanilang komunidad ang SHC, madali na para sa kanya ang magpakonsulta. At kung malalaman agad ang sakit ng isang pasyente, mabibigyan siya ng primary care, malalapatan ng lunas, at lalaki ang tsansa na maka-recover siya sa kanyang sakit,” he explained. SHCs offer database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the funding of various projects in the province, including the construction of multipurpose buildings in Barili, Cordova, Ginatilan, Pilar, Tabogon, and Talisay City; improvement of existing roads in Alcantara, Alcoy, Alegria, Asturias, Balamban, Boljoon, Borbon, Carmen, Madrilejos, Malabuyoc, Minglanilla, Moalboal, Pinamungajan, Sibonga, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Carcar City and Naga City; improvement of flood mitigation structures in Catmon and Tuburan; installation of street lights in Asturias, Compostela, and Daanbantayan; and acquisition of ambulance units for Madridejos and Naga City. The post Bong Go boosts fire victims’ recovery in Cebu City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Canada’s far north speeds up evacuations as fire approaches main city
Residents of Yellowknife in Canada's far north on Friday raced to evacuate ahead of a midday deadline as wildfires bear down on the remote city and other parts of the vast country. Since authorities in the Northwest Territories issued the city-wide evacuation order late Wednesday, long lines of cars have snaked along the lone highway connecting the area to Alberta province to the south ahead of the 12:00 pm (1800 GMT) cutoff. About 1,500 people have so far left Yellowknife, the regional capital, by plane, with an increased number of flights scheduled Friday to evacuate more of the city's 20,000 residents. The nearest evacuation center is 1,150 kilometers (700 miles) away, in Alberta, where several sites have been set up. Crews have scrambled to erect fire barriers as the flames approached Yellowknife, while water bombers have been seen flying low over the city and swooping in to fill up at a nearby lake. Northwest winds over the next two days will send the fire, already close to the city's perimeter, "in directions we don't want," Northwest Territories' fire information officer Mike Westwick said Thursday. Several military aircraft have already been dispatched, along with more than 120 soldiers to help beat back the flames. In what had already been declared the Northwest Territories' largest-ever evacuation, the emptying of Yellowknife now means half the population of the near-Arctic territory will soon be displaced. Several towns and Indigenous communities were also already under evacuation orders. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau interrupted his summer vacation Thursday to convene an incident response group. In British Columbia in western Canada, evacuation orders were also put in place for areas near Kelowna, as a different fire threatened the city of around 150,000. Scientists say human-caused global warming is exacerbating natural hazards, making them both more frequent and more deadly. The evacuation of Yellowknife is the second time a sizeable Canadian city has been cleared due to wildfires since 100,000 residents of Fort McMurray in Alberta's oil and gas-producing heartland were forced out in 2016. Earlier this year, suburbs of Halifax on the Atlantic coast were also evacuated. Canada is experiencing a record-setting wildfire season, with official estimates of over 13.7 million hectares (33.9 million acres) already scorched. Four people have died so far. Waves of smoke have also intermittently descended on the United States, prompting several air alert warnings in large swaths of the country's center and east. The Yellowknife evacuation comes amid heightened awareness about the deadly speed of wildfires after a town on the Hawaiian island of Maui was razed by a fast-moving inferno, killing more than 100 people. The post Canada’s far north speeds up evacuations as fire approaches main city appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Catapang warns PDLs to surrender their contrabands or face consequences
An ultimatum was given by Bureau of Corrections Director-General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. to all persons deprived of liberty at the New Bilibid Prison to surrender all their contrabands until Sunday, 13 August, or they will conduct operations Greyhound (Galugad) daily. The ultimatum was issued after a group of PDLs surrendered the other day a hand grenade, three improvised shotguns (sumpak), three shotgun cartridges, two grinders with six discs, two metal pipes, 12 improvised long-bladed weapons, 49 short-bladed weapons, and 18 ice picks. The PDL claimed that the grenade he surrendered was obtained long before Catapang assumed office; but nevertheless, it will be investigated to determine how it was able to get through the inspection of NBP so that proper adjustments can be made when it pertains to security inspection. Catapang, who architect the “great escape” to the safety of Filipino peacekeeping forces in Golam Heights in Syria in 2014, vowed to cleanse the NBP of contrabands as he pursued twin approaches — one, by persuading all PDLs to surrender their contrabands; and two, surprise greyhound operation. “I am appealing to other groups inside the national penitentiary to cooperate with us, to come forward and surrender their contrabands because we will be relentless in our efforts. I assure you that it is not just a ningas cogon, we will not waver until we find those contrabands,” Catapang said. Catapang, a retired four-star general, also informed the PDLs that those who will cooperate with the reform agenda and will not engage in illegal activities are assured to get out of jail as soon as they serve their minimum sentence while those who will be caught red-handed with contrabands after his ultimatum will have to stay longer. Meanwhile, Catapang also warned his subordinates to discharge their duties and responsibilities accordingly as their functions are well defined now including their areas of responsibilities. “We all have jobs to do, and I will not tolerate incompetence, our outcry of Reform BuCor is not only for PDLs but most especially to our personnel because, despite the challenges and the gargantuan problems I inherited, I still believed that good changes in the bureaucracy can still happen,” Catapang said. The post Catapang warns PDLs to surrender their contrabands or face consequences appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Rain deaths: China, 78; Myanmar, 5
The death toll from record-breaking rains across northern China rose to at least 78 on Friday while floods and landslides caused by monsoon rains have killed five people in Myanmar. Deaths from flooding in China’s Hebei province rose to 29, state media reported Friday, after storm “Doksuri,” which hit mainland China as a typhoon two weeks ago, brought on the most severe rainfall since records began 140 years ago. Rescuers have continued to search for 16 missing people believed swept away by the floods, as another storm, “Khanun,” approaches over the weekend. In Beijing, at least 33 people have died, including two rescue workers, authorities said this week. In northeastern Jilin province, more than a dozen people were killed by torrential rain last week. In neighboring Liaoning province, two deaths were reported after the first few days of intense rain in late July. Meanwhile, Lay Shwe Zin Oo, director of Myanmar’s social welfare, relief and resettlement ministry, told Agence France-Presse that five people have been killed in Rakhine state, where large areas of villages and farmland are shown in a footage submerged by murky yellow-brown waters. Around 37,000 people have been evacuated already around Myanmar, she added, with the figure set to rise above 40,000 on Friday. “Our department is giving necessary things for households evacuated to temporary camps,” she said. WITH AFP The post Rain deaths: China, 78; Myanmar, 5 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Death toll in China’s Hebei floods rises to 29
The death toll from floods in northern China's Hebei province has risen to 29, state media reported Friday, after record-breaking rains pummelled the region in recent weeks. "As of August 10, 29 people have died due to disasters in Hebei Province, of which six were previously missing. There are still 16 missing," state broadcaster CCTV reported, citing authorities. Rescue efforts were still ongoing to find those missing, CCTV said. At least 33 people died in Beijing as a result of a severe rainstorm and floods that struck in late July, including two rescue workers, authorities said earlier this week. And more than a dozen people were killed in northeastern Jilin province after torrential rain last week. Streets in parts of Hebei, which borders the capital, were still caked in mud when AFP visited on Wednesday. Residents were scrambling to recover waterlogged belongings and clean up damaged homes. Millions of people have been hit by extreme weather events and prolonged heatwaves around the globe in recent weeks, events scientists say are being exacerbated by climate change. Beijing's 'moat' During a visit to affected communities last week, Hebei province party chief Ni Yuefeng said that the area could "reduce the pressure on Beijing's flood control" and serve as a "moat" for the capital. China's state media has hailed the government's efforts to mitigate damage from the inundations, with coverage focused on tales of mutual aid and selfless officials working tirelessly on rescue efforts. But a week after the waters first swelled, some villagers told AFP they did not receive adequate warning from the authorities about when the floods would come. The Chinese government on Wednesday said it would allocate one billion yuan ($139 million) to compensate residents in areas that had been inundated to control flood levels in downstream areas. The fund would pay for "damage to crops, animal and poultry farms, commercial forests, houses and agricultural machinery", according to the official Xinhua news agency. Insurance providers in Beijing are paying out at least 380 million yuan in claims for losses caused by the recent rains, according to Xinhua. Heavy rains are expected again over the weekend as tropical depression Khanun -- formerly a typhoon -- approaches China, with meteorologists warning of flood risks in mountainous areas of southwest China, including Sichuan province. At least seven people died in a flash flood southwest of Sichuan's capital Chengdu earlier this week, after an unexpected tide of water washed away a number of tourists on the Longxi River. The post Death toll in China’s Hebei floods rises to 29 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR, DPWH study water impounding system vs floods
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Department of Public Works and Highways are jointly studying the construction of water impounding systems as well as flood control structures as mitigation approaches to climate change and its impacts amid the flooding experienced in many areas in the country following rains brought by Typhoon Egay and the southwest monsoon, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said yesterday......»»
Defining cybercrime
This September, the United Nations General Assembly shall take up the comprehensive international agreement on cybercrime, which, if adopted, shall be presented for ratification by all UN member states. For the very first time, the UN Ad Hoc Committee to Elaborate a Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes shall define what will globally be considered as cybercrime and how countries and their law enforcement agencies can collaborate to prevent, detect and prosecute such crimes that include access to and sharing relevant data held by the private sector, and potentially establish third party liability. The International Chamber of Commerce Philippines joins global industries and the World Chambers Federation in raising a number of concerns that can affect areas such as cybersecurity research, access to data held by the private sector, including matters of data protection and privacy, human rights implications, as well as business liability and regulation. The Convention likewise seeks to harmonize approaches and incentivize collaboration, but if its scope is not clearly and narrowly defined, this could only cause complications for business compliance specially when countries end up with complex and overlapping laws. Acts of cybercrime cross borders and necessitate global cooperation for an effective prosecution of crimes. The cooperation entails that offenses are commonly understood and recognized by the parties involved. A globally agreed to Convention ensures a more stable, secure and trusted digital environment. It should not, however, duplicate nor contradict existing frameworks, rather, it should supplement or be aligned with existing international agreements such as the Budapest Convention, the UN Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime, the UN Convention Against Corruption, and others. Moreover, the provisions on criminalization should include offenses against confidentiality, integrity and availability of computer data and systems — examples of which are unauthorized access or hacking; unauthorized system interference that cause injury to the public through the use of computer programs or electromagnetic methods; and unauthorized data interference, otherwise known as phishing. Novel cyber technologies and criminal activities, such as the spreading and use of malicious computer codes to attack government systems, critical infrastructure, or ICT supply chains must be an integral part of the Convention. Traditional crimes, however, should not be classified as cybercrime simply because a computer was involved in the planning and execution of the crime. For example, terrorism, arms trafficking or counterfeit medical products need not be addressed in this Convention as they are already covered by other treaties. When criminalizing various actions, the Convention should explicitly mention intent and purpose for each act. Security and vulnerability research and disclosure, when coordinated with vendors and authorities, should not be criminalized since that would have the opposite effect and make the cyber ecosystem less secure. Further, given the different legal practices and cultural approaches across member nations, any attempt to regulate content must be shunned. Commitments that would result in preventive content takedowns may lead to hampering journalistic freedom and freedom of expression. It is imperative that the definition and scope of each illegal conduct covered, including descriptions of types of activities, are stipulated. Given the rapid evolution of technologies and the need to ensure the protection of human rights when it comes to criminal sanctions, these definitions shall be the basis for penalties and compliance requirements once the Convention is adopted and implemented as national law. Provisions written Clearly, Definitively, Precisely and Carefully will avoid unintended interpretation. ICC Philippines appeals to the Philippine delegation to consider the concerns of the global business community before said Convention is submitted for ratification. The post Defining cybercrime appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM urges gov’t, business sector collaboration
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called for a partnership between the government and the business sector to advance sustainable growth and climate action. In his speech at the APEC Business Advisory Council meeting in Cebu on Friday, Marcos underscored that the business sector is not only a major contributor to the economy but also an “aggressive agent of social change." Marcos added that the two sectors must work together to identify practical, pragmatic, and promising solutions to pressing issues such as energy insecurity, the triple threat of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. "We can pursue innovative technologies and approaches, for example, in the exploration of nuclear energy and small modular reactors as viable options for low or zero carbon energy sources," he said. Marcos also urged the business sector to help the government in its transition to clean energy. He said that shared investment would alleviate the financing burden of governments, while the expertise of businesses in areas such as planning, operations, and execution could be mainstreamed in the sustainability projects of the government. In addition, Marcos called for the standardization of data templates, indicators, and baselines across APEC economies. This would facilitate data collection and exchange, which would in turn strengthen technical cooperation within APEC. He also called for the business sector to take the lead in setting up standards for responsible business conduct that would encourage sustainable practices while balancing rapid growth. "Opportunities abound for our people if APEC preserves its strength as an incubator of ideas, driven in large part by the significant contributions of ABAC and the dynamism of the business community in our region," President Marcos said. He went on to say that the business sector needs to not only work with the government but also take the lead in setting standards for responsible business behavior that will support sustainable practices while keeping fast growth in check. The Chief Executive also thanked the ABAC Philippines for holding the Meeting and told its members to get ideas from their surroundings to finish the deliverables and make the most of the tools they have access to. The post PBBM urges gov’t, business sector collaboration appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Philippine volcanologists call for vigilance as typhoon approaches
MANILA, July 21 (Xinhua) -- Philippine volcanologists on Friday called for vigilance as an approaching tropical depression could develop into a super typhoon and dump heavy rain in areas near an erupting volcano southeast of Manila. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned that the tropical depression will bring heavy rainfall from Sunday, triggering floods.....»»
Championing human rights in Phl
The United States government, through the US Agency for International Development, recently contributed close to P7 million ($125,000) to the Philippines-United Nations Joint Programme for Human Rights. These new funds will support the Philippine government in strengthening accountability mechanisms and promoting human rights in the country. US president Joseph R. Biden Jr. expressed support for advancing human rights in the Philippines during his recent meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Washington, D.C. Promoting respect for human rights and the rule of law, as well as ensuring the safety of civil society leaders and marginalized communities, are among the key priorities in the US-Philippines relationship. “Human rights are a critical pillar in development, and we believe it is not possible for any country to rise to its full potential without them,” said US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson. “We are proud to join the international community in supporting the Philippines to protect human rights and uphold every person’s individual dignity.” Launched in 2021, the UN Joint Programme in the Philippines supports government and non-government institutions in critical areas, including safeguarding civic space and engaging with civil society and the Commission on Human Rights. The three-year initiative also strengthens reporting mechanisms for accountability and promotes human rights-based approaches to drug control. “We welcome the contribution of the United States to the UN Joint Programme for Human Rights and their commitment to promote human rights in the Philippines and beyond. We look forward to engaging with them further on this important work,” said Gustavo González, UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines. The post Championing human rights in Phl appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DBP funds Iloilo modern jeeps
State-owned Development Bank of the Philippines has granted a P367.72-million credit assistance to an Iloilo-based transport cooperative for the acquisition of 148 brand new modern Public Utility Jeepneys as part of efforts to promote a safer, greener and more efficient public transportation system in the province. DBP president and chief executive officer Michael O. de Jesus said the credit support to Metro Iloilo Transport Service Cooperative under the bank’s Program Assistance to Support Alternative Driving Approaches would finance the acquisition of EURO-compliant PUJs to be deployed to seven routes in Iloilo City. “DBP’s credit assistance to MITS Coop reflects our firm resolve to support the implementation of the National Government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program,” De Jesus said. “This undertaking further fortifies DBP’s commitment to stimulate local businesses in the automobile industry and to contribute to the overall development of the transportation sector in the country.” DBP is the eighth largest bank in the country in terms of assets and provides credit support to four strategic sectors of the economy — infrastructure and logistics; micro, small and medium enterprises; environment; social services and community development. MITS Coop is registered with the Cooperative Development Authority and was organized in line with the national government’s jeepney modernization program. It has 627 members, composed mainly of drivers, jeepney operators and allied workers from various municipalities in Iloilo. De Jesus said the PASADA Program is DBP’s flagship program for the modernization of the country’s transportation system and offers flexible and competitive financing options tailored to the unique needs of transport corporations and cooperatives accredited by the Office of the Transport Cooperatives. He said the modern PUJs financed by DBP will serve the transportation needs of an estimated 33,000 commuters, following the issuance of a transport route plan that includes seven routes situated mostly in highly populated areas of Iloilo City. “As a development financing institution, DBP will continue to pursue partnerships that would bring far-reaching benefits to the lives of commuters, local businesses, and the environment at large,” De Jesus said. DBP senior vice president and head of Development and Resiliency Sector Carolyn I. Olfindo said MITS Coop initially partnered with DBP in 2020 for the acquisition of 27 modernized jeepney units, adding that “…its acquisition of 148 additional modern PUJs will provide employment opportunities to over 500 individuals in the province.” As of end June 2023, DBP has approved 104 accounts under the PASADA program with a total loan amount of P8.57 billion, serving as the bank’s tangible contribution to ongoing efforts to hasten the modernization of the country’s transport sector. “The joint undertaking with MITS Coop is a strong and decisive step for DBP in terms of assisting transportation cooperatives to take the big leap in public sector transport modernization, which would be a boon for a bustling and progressive city such as Iloilo,” Olfindo said. The post DBP funds Iloilo modern jeeps appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»