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Duterte visit in Lapu-Lapu may not happen with COVID surge in Metro Manila – Chan
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The surge in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in Metro Manila with several members of the Cabinet and the Presidential Security Group (PSG) being infected with the virus is among the reasons President Rodrigo Duterte may forego attending the celebrations marking the 500th anniversary of the Victory of Mactan on April […] The post Duterte visit in Lapu-Lapu may not happen with COVID surge in Metro Manila – Chan appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
10th ID bashes Canadian gov’t for travel advisory vs Mindanao
The 10th Infantry Agila Division (10ID) of the Philippine Army criticized the Canadian government for issuing a travel advisory against all parts of Mindanao, which includes their area of responsibility. Major Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson for the 10th ID, emphasized that the regions under their jurisdiction are peaceful and free from terrorism and violent threats, contrary to the Canadian embassy's advisory. The division oversees 12 provinces, seven cities, and 72 municipalities in various parts of Mindanao. Tito expressed bewilderment at the basis of the travel advisory, asserting that the Canadian government lacks awareness of the actual situation on the ground. He highlighted the peaceful nature of the entire Davao Region throughout 2023, with no recorded incidents of terrorism or insurgency. Despite the exclusion of Davao City from the advisory, Tito noted that the region would still be impacted. The Canadian embassy's advisory warned its citizens to avoid visiting Mindanao due to ongoing terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, high levels of violence, and encounters between rebel forces and government security authorities. Specific provinces and regions were singled out for caution or non-essential travel, including Northern Mindanao, Soccsksargen, and Eastern Mindanao. Contrary to the advisory, the 10th ID has been actively weakening and eliminating guerilla forces within its jurisdiction as part of the Philippine Army's efforts to establish an insurgency-free zone. In fact, on October 27, 2023, the Davao Region celebrated its first anniversary as an insurgency-free region in the Philippines. This dispute has led to other related stories, including the Chamber's intention to engage in discussions with the Canadian government regarding the travel advisory, as well as refutations from the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and celebrations of the Davao Region's insurgency-free status by the Regional Peace and Order Council. In summary, the 10th ID vehemently opposes the Canadian government's travel advisory, citing the peaceful and secure nature of the regions under their jurisdiction, and highlighting the significant strides made in eradicating insurgency in the Davao Region......»»
Graceful Beauty
A student of Mindanao State University performs a Maranao dance as part of the celebrations of the 5th anniversary of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in Marawi City on Monday, 22 January 2024. BARMM marks its 5th foundation on 21 January 2024. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO.....»»
WATCH: Elsa’s amazing ‘Frozen’ performance at ‘Disney on Ice’
Disney continues its 100th anniversary celebrations with the return of "Disney on Ice," running in Mall of Asia Arena until January 7......»»
Valenzuela: 4 centuries and counting
Valenzuela City marked the culmination of its 400th founding anniversary celebration with a grand night of festivities, including the launch of the city’s coffee table book, “Valenzuela: History and Progress,” and a vibrant Cultural Night fashion show. The event, held at Casa de Polo in Barangay Poblacion on Sunday, 26 November, was graced by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, who joined Mayor Wes Gatchalian and the city council in unveiling the building marker of Casa de Polo. The inauguration of Casa de Polo, a heritage-themed events space, signifies its opening for all accommodations, marking a significant milestone in the city’s history. Mayor Gatchalian emphasized the importance of celebrating the city’s 400th founding anniversary, expressing gratitude to those who contributed to the successful series of celebrations. The coffee table book features a comprehensive walk-through of the city’s heritage, tracing remarkable events from the old town of Polo to its gradual transformation into an urbanized city. The book delves into the city’s unique culture, showcasing its food, art, customs, traditions, churches, and local governance aspects, including education, health, social services and ecotourism. Leading to the grand finale, Cultural Night, a fashion presentation that paid homage to Valenzuela City’s history and cultural heritage, took center stage. The program showcased the works of three renowned local designers: Michael Leyva, Robbie Santos and Daniel Manila. The fashion show exhibited three blocks, resonating themes of Polo, showcasing Pueblo de Polo’s agricultural background; Fatima, highlighting the vibrant culture and faith of Valenzuelanos; and Agos, focusing on the city’s relentless pursuit of progress and “riding the waves” of continuous growth and innovation. The event was also graced by Senators Grace Poe and Mark Villar, Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, National Museum of the Philippines Director Jeremy Barns, LGU department heads, members of the city council, punong barangays, judges, fiscals, delegates of the Comelec, Chamber of Commerce and Industry and JCI, among others......»»
Turkish city centenary holds special significance
Standing at the foot of the cliff overlooking Kemaliye, the golden statue of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the father of the nation, evokes the glorious past of this small town in eastern Turkey. Ataturk rewarded the loyalty of the town, nestled between the mountains and the sources of the Euphrates, by giving it his name ahead of creating the Turkish republic out of the ashes of the Ottoman Empire 100 years ago. “The whole country would have wanted to bear his name but he would never have accepted!” said retired hotelier Haci Omer Yalcinkayalar, referring to the modest nature of Ataturk, who will be celebrated on the nation’s anniversary on 29 October. General Mustafa Kemal, hero of the Dardanelles war against the Allies, in 1919 began confronting the Westerners who occupied the dismembered empire to found the independent nation he longed for. His forces found themselves nearing disaster at the gates of Ankara in 1921 when he received a telegram from Egin, a trading town at the crossroads of Anatolia and the Caucasus, with an Armenian population. The telegram read: “Dear Pasha, we have 500 horsemen ready to leave at your command,” recounted Yalcinkayalar. Situated on the caravan routes heading towards Baghdad, Iran and Georgia, the town was prosperous. This is evidenced by the persisting stone and wooden houses that were built along the steep slopes of the mountainside, which town authorities requested to be classified as a UNESCO world heritage site. The entire district had around 20,000 inhabitants including some 6,000 in Kemaliye itself in Ataturk’s time, compared with 1,500 residents today. “In the end, they didn’t have to do it,” Yalcinkayalar said of the offer to send horsemen. But Ataturk did not forget the gesture and, a year later, he wrote to the Egin municipal council to offer his name. “It was given to us as a gift,” said the 73-year-old who has devoted his retirement to his town’s history. “It honors us: With the republic, we joined the civilized world.” Kemaliye has been home to many celebrations including concerts, football tournaments and banquets on every October 29 since the birth of the republic in 1923. In Guzide Tufekci’s family, the story is passed down with enthusiasm: The 60-year-old former literature professor, an enthusiastic Kemalist, recalled what Turkish women owe to Ataturk and the republic. “He opened the way for enlightened Turkish women, intellectuals, to have access to education, to have a profession. We’re proud of him,” she said. Facing a small train station that has served Kemaliye since 1938, a modest cafe is decorated like a museum. Erdal Erdurk, 59, has hung portraits of Ataturk on all the walls — in color, in black and white, in a soldier’s uniform, in a tuxedo or wearing his Astrakhan hat — and hung a huge red flag bearing his image above the entrance. WITH AFP The post Turkish city centenary holds special significance appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Valenzuela City kicks off joint Christmas and 400th-anniversary celebration
Welcoming two momentous events in one, the City of Valenzuela held its annual “Tree of Hope” lighting ceremony at the Valenzuela City People’s Park on 30 September, an event graced by special guests Jose Mari Chan, Patrick Quiroz and Itchyworms. The ceremony also marked the beginning of the three-month-long celebration of the 400th founding anniversary of the city. The “Tree of Hope” lighting ceremony, a city tradition since2004, sees the lighting of a 50-foot Christmas tree and the installation of holiday decor to set the Christmas spirit early for Valenzuelanos. This year, the lighting ceremony is coupled with another historical commemoration — the kick-off celebration of the 400th founding anniversary of the City of Valenzuela. It is a modern Pinoy Christmas theme bridging the past and future. Mayor Wes Gatchalian was joined bythe CDO Foodsphere and SM Supermalls in lighting up the Tree of Hope this year. The city also welcomed PWD children as the primary beneficiaries of the event, along with students from PLV and VALPOLY. Singers from PLV performed Christmas carols, while the local government invited Christmas icon Jose Mari Chan to sing his signature song, “Christmas in Our Hearts”, while the Tree of Hope was lit amid fireworks. A colorful and dashing fountain display provided the finishing touches to the occasion. Multiple attractions in the city such as Valenzuela City Family Park, WES Arena, Fatima Avenue and Polo Family Park are also set to turn on their Christmas installations in the coming days. A post-lighting concert took place at the Valenzuela City Amphitheater where guests Patrick Quiroz and The Itchyworms livened up the crowd. The city's 400th founding anniversary celebration happens on 12 November, following Pueblo de Polo’s founding date of 12 November 1623. Back-to-back celebrations awaits the city with the Polo Fiesta and Casa de Polo inaugurations as two of the grand events slated for #Valenzuela400 this month. Other huge events unfolding in the following months include the Oktoberfest, Polo Fiesta activities, Mass at San Diego de Alcala Church, Casa de Polo blessing and inauguration, Industry Summit, Gawad Dr. Pio Valenzuela Awarding, Cultural Night, Valenzuela’s coffee-table book launch, a visit from delegates of Bucheon, South Korea, Food Fiesta, and a Christmas Bazaar. Over the past 400 years, the City of Valenzuela has never stopped evolving. From an agricultural provincial town of Polo, it has become a highly urbanized, industrial and livable city, recognized as one of the progressive urban centers in the country. Thus, reaching four centuries of growth and progress is a milestone worth celebrating for all Valenzuelanos, and an inspiration to continuously commemorate and honor the rich history that established the city. The post Valenzuela City kicks off joint Christmas and 400th-anniversary celebration appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Laguna tourists visit EK
Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, was recently cited by the government of Laguna for generating the highest number of same-day visitors in 2022. The recognition was conferred during the province’s celebration of the National Tourism Week 2023 and the 123rd CSC Anniversary last September 19 at the Cultural Center of Laguna — ahead of EK’s celebration of its 28th anniversary this coming October. According to Ms. Lynne Adante, EK’s head of Sales, the world-class theme park is steadfast in enhancing its products and services to create magical experiences for all its guests. “Ultimately, our goal is to provide as many magical experiences among our guests from all over the Philippines, and encourage them to keep coming back to Enchanted Kingdom and Laguna with their family and friends,” Ms. Adante said. Enchanted Kingdom can cater to in-park group reservations ranging from personal milestone celebrations to big corporate bookings, as they enjoy various themed environments in the Park’s nine zones with a variety of rides and attractions, as well as food and retail outlets. It also houses the first flying theater in the Philippines called Agila: the EKsperience, which promotes national pride as it takes guests on a thrilling journey across the Philippines. EK’s latest ride attraction, Twin Spin, a major spinning coaster, was launched in 2021 despite the challenges of the pandemic. The post Laguna tourists visit EK appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mediatrix controversy
Author’s note: In the last column, I wrote that the 1951 Pius XII decree that said the Mediatrix apparitions had “no supernatural character or origin” is not binding because it was never promulgated officially. Pope Francis recently appointed a new Prefect of the Dicastery, Cardinal-to-be Archbishop Victor Manuel Fernandez, SJ. Like his predecessor, Fernandez is a Jesuit and an Argentinian. He is the “theological alter ego” of Pope Francis. How will controversial Archbishop Fernandez handle the 70-year-old Mediatrix issue? Will the current Dicastery, which is vehemently anti-Mediatrix, under the helm of Archbishop Fernandez tone down its stance? As a background, there was a decree of the Dicastery but not of Pope Pius XII. The Dicastery of 1951, whose members have died, claimed Pope Pius XII directly approved its decision (not to recognize the Mediatrix apparitions), but it was never formally entered into the Acta Apostolicae Sedis, the official Vatican publication, a requirement of Canon Law for it to take effect. What are the implications if the 1951 Pius XII decree is in truth non-existent? Under the domino principle, this implies that technically all subsequent declarations and orders of the Dicastery for 70 long years are also not binding, including the latest, wherein Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera was ordered by the Dicastery to ban all celebrations of the 75th anniversary of the Mediatrix apparitions. However, the Dicastery never authenticated the Mediatrix apparitions, so the apparition celebrations are rightfully banned. But there is a contradiction that must be resolved — since the original 1951 Pius XII decree is in question. The members of the Dicastery in 1951 were caught in a lie because then apostolic administrator Bishop Rufino Santos stated in his decree of 12 April 1951 that he was still awaiting the Vatican decision regarding Lipa — when the Dicastery reported in its Protocol 226/1949 that a decision had been made, contradicting Bishop Santos. Archbishop Fernandez has to resolve this issue because the evangelization of Asia, which is the focus of Pope Francis, is at stake. Pope Francis looks to the Philippines, the only Christian nation in Asia, as the launch pad for the evangelization of Asia and the “conversion” of China. Conversion means stopping the persecution and massacre of Christians in China, permitting churches there to open, reuniting the Underground Church (who are the target of assassinations) and the Vatican-led Church, and finally, changing China’s belligerence to benevolence in the South China Sea to prevent a full-blown US-China confrontation. The Virgin can bring peace to Asia better than any military solutions. A well-publicized message of Our Lady Mediatrix of All Grace was a warning about China: “Pray hard for China’s dream is to invade the whole world. The Philippines is one of its favorites.” (17 October 1949). There is a Mediatrix shrine in a chapel in a small village near Nanjing that was built by Metropolitan Bank when it was commissioned by the Chinese government to develop two villages. This “foothold” in China is evidence the Virgin Mediatrix is fulfilling her mission of evangelization and conversion. Archbishop Fernandez and Pope Francis must be informed of the history of the Mediatrix to sharpen their perspectives on its geopolitical ramifications. The continued suppression of Mediatrix devotion and of the entire Philippine Church may hamper the Church’s efforts to evangelize Asia. In truth, Satan is scared of the Mediatrix, that is why, in his panic, he tortured Mediatrix visionary Sr. Teresing Castillo, as she wrote in her second diary that the Vatican failed to destroy but which is now available on the Internet. Is Satan behind the suppression of the Mediatrix by using Cardinals in the Vatican without them knowing it? For centuries, Satan has been penetrating the sacred halls of the Vatican and using the Cardinals without their being aware of it. That Satan works in the Vatican is nothing new. Historically, the Spanish Inquisition in the Middle Ages beheaded on mere suspicion about a thousand “heretics.” The ongoing “apostasy” (civil war) within the Vatican, which Fatima prophesied, is another sign of Satan’s works. It is thus in the interest of the Vatican to consider the Marian evangelization that it is suppressing — to have a change of heart. In the end, the Virgin will triumph over the Vatican, if need be, as revealed in the Bible. The Lord said, “I will put enmity between you (Satan) and the Woman (Mary), and between your offspring (demons) and hers (Jesus). Her offspring will crush your head and you will bruise His heel.” Genesis 3:15. “A huge red dragon stood before the Woman about to give birth, to devour her Child. She gave birth to a Son destined to rule all nations. In utter rage, the serpent waged war against the rest of her offspring, those bearing witness to the Son born of Her womb.” Revelation 11:1-17 (excerpts). *** eastwindreplyctr@gmail.com The post Mediatrix controversy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NHA’s gender-responsive program wins 2 awards
National Housing Authority General Manager Joeben Tai on Monday announced that their agency bagged the 2023 GADtimpala Silver for Outstanding Gender-Responsive Agency and the Exemplary GAD Focal Point System award commissioned yearly by the Philippine Commission on Women. The awards recognized NHA’s outstanding performance in gender mainstreaming and effective implementation of gender-responsive programs. “It is another milestone for the NHA to be acknowledged and appreciated for GAD best practices and gender-responsive programs. Indeed, I am very proud that the Authority commits to promoting gender equality,” Tai said in his message delivered by NHA GAD Chairperson Atty. Ma. Magdalena D. Siacon during the awarding ceremony held at the Samsung Hall, SM Aura Premier in Taguig City on 14 August 2023, coinciding with the 14th-anniversary celebrations of the signing of the Magna Carta of Women. In more than 20 years, the NHA has spearheaded initiatives to promote gender equality in its workplaces and housing programs. Tai reiterated that the agency will continue to improve its best GAD practices for the benefit not only of its employees but of the beneficiaries and stakeholders as well. “Rest assured that the NHA will continue to provide better technology, better policy and better procedures that are gender-sensitive and gender-responsive to the needs of our clients and beneficiaries,” he said. The post NHA’s gender-responsive program wins 2 awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Kim oversees N. Korea military parade showcasing new drones, ICBMs
Flanked by visiting Russian and Chinese officials, Kim Jong Un oversaw a North Korean military parade featuring new drones and Pyongyang's nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles, state media reported Friday. At least four new North Korean military drones were towed on trailers through Pyongyang's Kim Il Sung square at the parade late Thursday, state media images showed, while another drone appeared to conduct a flyover overhead. Standing between Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chinese politburo member Li Hongzhong in the VIP viewing stands, Kim smiled and saluted as thousands of soldiers marched past, trailed by the country's most powerful ICBMs, which are banned under UN sanctions. The event, featuring Kim's first-known foreign guests since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, was to mark the 70th anniversary of the Korean War armistice, which ended open hostilities and is celebrated as Victory Day. Kim "extended warm militant greetings" to the parade, the official Korean Central News Agency said, and North Korea's defense minister Kang Sun Nam made a speech. The United States has no chance "of survival in case they use nuclear weapons against the DPRK", Kang said, referring to the North by its official name. He warned that any attempts by the United States to use armed force against the North would cause an "unimaginable and unforeseen crisis". The parade featured an array of new weaponry, including some first unveiled at a defense expo on Wednesday in Pyongyang, visited by Kim and Shoigu. North Korea's new underwater nuclear attack drone, called the "Haeil", appeared at the parade for the first time, Seoul-based specialist site NK News reported. "The strategic reconnaissance drone and the multi-purpose attack drone which was newly developed and produced... made circular flights in the sky above the (Kim Il Sung square," KCNA said. The "excitement and great joy of the spectators reached its height" when the nuclear-armed country's newest ICBM -- the solid-fuel Hwasong-18, tested in April and July this year -- was paraded through the square, KCNA said. The tests were roundly condemned by Seoul, Washington and Tokyo, and violate UN sanctions banning the North from any tests using ballistic missile technology. 'Send the US a signal' The parade is a key part of "promoting Kim Jong Un's ruling legitimacy and internal unity in this economically challenging time", Yangmo Ku, a political science professor at Norwich University, told AFP. But this year, with the inclusion of high-level guests from Moscow and Beijing, Pyongyang is also sending America "a signal that under strengthened ties with Russia and China, North Korea is militarily ready to cope with strategic threats from its enemies", he said. "All these acts mean the emergence of the new Cold War surrounding the Korean Peninsula," Ku added. Beijing is North Korea's most important ally and economic benefactor, their relationship forged in the bloodshed of the Korean War in the 1950s. "China's representation at North Korea's parading of nuclear-capable missiles raises serious questions about Beijing enabling Pyongyang's threats to global security," said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul. Russia, another historic ally, is one of a handful of nations with which Pyongyang maintains friendly relations, and experts said it was noteworthy that Moscow had sent Shoigu to the anniversary celebrations -- a rare visit by a Russian defense chief in the post-Soviet era. Kim has been steadfast in his support for Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, including, Washington says, supplying rockets and missiles -- a charge Pyongyang has denied. Russia's President Vladimir Putin sent a speech, read out by Shoigu at an anniversary event, according to KCNA, in which Moscow's leader hailed North Korea for its "firm support for special military operations against Ukraine". Easley said that "given Russia's need for ammunition for its illegal war in Ukraine and (Kim's) willingness to personally give the Russian defense minister a tour of North Korea's arms exhibition, UN member states should increase vigilance for observing and penalizing sanctions violations". The inclusion of foreign guests at this year's celebrations is a post-pandemic first, and hints at new flexibility toward enforcing border controls. North Korea has imposed a rigid Covid-19 blockade since early 2020, preventing even its own nationals from entering the country. It only resumed some trade with China last year and allowed new Beijing envoy Wang Yajun to take up his position this year. He is the first known senior diplomat to cross into North Korea since the border closure in January 2020. The post Kim oversees N. Korea military parade showcasing new drones, ICBMs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Iglesia ni Cristo celebrates109th anniversary
The Iglesia Ni Cristo celebrates today its 109th founding anniversary, with the global church holding thanksgiving services around the world, at local churches, and its cavernous headquarters in Quezon City. [caption id="attachment_162704" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Iglesia Ni Cristo members prepare for service inside the Central Temple located along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City. | photograph courtesy of lakansining.wordpress.com[/caption] This year’s celebrations are expected to mirror last year’s festivities, with the primary thanksgiving service held at the INC Central Temple. Expected to lead the ceremony is Executive Minister Eduardo V. Manalo, who last year expressed an unbounded thankfulness to God for the benefits bestowed upon the Church during the last 108 years. In his speech, Manalo said the Church had been able to develop and thrive due to God’s direction and protection. He asserted the Church was devoted to carrying out its mission of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world. “We are grateful to God for the many blessings that He has bestowed upon us,” Manalo said. “We are also grateful for the opportunity to serve Him and spread His word throughout the world.” Thanksgiving services were also held outside the Philippines, including in the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan and the United Kingdom. Members of the Church took the opportunity to renew their resolve to serve Him. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., at the time recently sworn in after winning the 2022 presidential election, congratulated the INC on its anniversary and called on its over 10 million members to work together for the good of the country. In a message in Filipino, Marcos thanked the INC for supporting his administration and wished its executive minister, Ka Eduardo, and other leaders “enough strength, wisdom, and compassion.” “I am very grateful for your solidarity with the government and in promoting righteousness and peace in our country and other parts of the world,” Marcos said. The President also visited the INC Central Office in Quezon City, where he met with Manalo and other INC leaders. During the meeting, Marcos thanked Manalo and the INC community for their continuing support of his presidency. In the May 2022 elections, the INC endorsed the candidacies of Marcos and his running mate, Sara Duterte. In his message then, Marcos urged INC members to use their anniversary celebration as an opportunity to “recommit ourselves to the ideals of peace, unity, and progress. Let us work together to build a better future for our country,” he said. The INC is one of the largest Christian denominations in the Philippines, founded in 1914 by Felix Manalo. [caption id="attachment_162705" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Felix Manalo.[/caption] In addition to the Thanksgiving services, the Church celebrated its anniversary with a variety of events, including a youth festival, a blood donation drive, and a tree-planting project. Through the years, the Church has been well-known for its strong feelings of community and dedication to social work. The post Iglesia ni Cristo celebrates109th anniversary appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
North Korea fires missiles ahead of key anniversary
Pyongyang conducted twin missile launches late Monday, ahead of Korean War anniversary celebrations that will be attended by Chinese dignitaries in the first foreign delegation visit to the country since its 2020 pandemic border closure. South Korea's defense ministry described the two projectiles as ballistic missiles that flew about 400 kilometers (248 miles) before falling into the sea, according to reports by news agency Yonhap of South Korea and Japan's Kyodo. "Our military detected two ballistic missiles North Korea fired from areas near Pyongyang into the East Sea at 11:55 pm on the 24th and at midnight of the 25th," Yonhap quoted South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff as saying. The launches were the latest in a series of weapons tests in recent weeks by Pyongyang, and come as Seoul and Washington ramp up defense cooperation in the face of soaring tensions with the North. Last week South Korea hosted a visit by a US nuclear-capable submarine, the first deployment there by such a nuclear-armed American vessel in decades. And in a move that likely further provoked the North, a second US submarine, the nuclear-powered USS Annapolis, arrived at a South Korean naval base around the time of Monday's missile launches, according to Yonhap. The reclusive North Korean regime routinely conducts weapons tests, and the launches come days after leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the latest firing of the country's newest intercontinental ballistic missile, the solid-fuel Hwasong-18. Relations between the two Koreas are currently at one of their lowest historical points, as diplomacy between Pyongyang and Seoul has stalled and Kim has called for ramping up weapons development, including tactical nukes. In efforts to bolster deterrence, Seoul and Washington have staged joint military exercises with advanced stealth jets and US strategic assets. The White House took issue with Pyongyang's latest action, with Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre saying "we certainly condemn the DPRK's ballistic missile launches," referring to North Korea by the acronym of its formal name. The missile tests "pose a threat to the DPRK's neighbors and the international community," Jean-Pierre said, adding: "Our commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea and Japan remains ironclad." Significant visit Monday's launches come ahead of celebrations in North Korea this week marking the 70th anniversary of the end of fighting in the Korean War. A Chinese delegation led by Politburo member Li Hongzhong will travel to the North for the event, the state-run Korean Central News Agency reported, in what is the first known visit by a foreign delegation since the start of the pandemic. North Korea has been under a rigid self-imposed coronavirus blockade since early 2020 to protect itself from Covid-19, only resuming some trade with China last year. An armistice agreement ending Korean War hostilities was signed on July 27, 1953 but the two Koreas remain technically at war because the 1950-53 conflict ended in an armistice and not a peace treaty. Tensions on the Korean peninsula also have ratcheted up recently due to the disappearance of a US soldier, Travis King, who was on a tour of the demilitarized zone last week when he ran across the border into North Korea. The UN Command, a US-led multinational force that oversees the Korean War truce, said Monday it has begun discussions with Pyongyang over the missing American serviceman. The post North Korea fires missiles ahead of key anniversary appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
North Korea fires missiles ahead of key anniversary, Seoul says
Pyongyang conducted twin missile launches late Monday, ahead of anniversary celebrations that will be watched by Chinese dignitaries in the first foreign delegation to visit North Korea since its 2020 pandemic border closure. South Korea's defense ministry described the two projectiles as ballistic missiles that flew about 400 kilometers (248 miles) before falling into the sea, according to reports by news agency Yonhap of South Korea and Japan's Kyodo. "Our military detected two ballistic missiles North Korea fired from areas near Pyongyang into the East Sea at 11:55 pm on the 24th and at midnight of the 25th," Yonhap quoted South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff as saying. The launches were the latest in a series of weapons tests in recent weeks by Pyongyang, and come as Seoul and Washington ramp up defense cooperation in the face of soaring tensions with the North. The reclusive regime routinely conducts weapons tests, and the incident comes days after leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the latest firing of the country's newest intercontinental ballistic missile, the solid-fuel Hwasong-18. Relations between the two Koreas are currently at one of their lowest historical points, as diplomacy between Pyongyang and Seoul has stalled and Kim has called for ramping up weapons development, including tactical nukes. In response, Seoul and Washington have staged joint military exercises with advanced stealth jets and US strategic assets. Monday's launches also come ahead of celebrations in North Korea this week marking the 70th anniversary of the end of fighting in the Korean War. A Chinese delegation led by Politburo member Li Hongzhong will travel to the North for the event, the state-run Korean Central News Agency reported, in what is the first known visit by a foreign delegation since the start of the pandemic. North Korea has been under a rigid self-imposed coronavirus blockade since early 2020 to protect itself from Covid-19, only resuming some trade with China last year. An armistice agreement ending Korean War hostilities was signed on 27 July 1953 but the two Koreas remain technically at war because the 1950-53 conflict ended in an armistice and not a peace treaty. Tensions on the Korean peninsula also have ratcheted up recently due to the disappearance of a US soldier, Travis King, who was on a tour of the demilitarized zone last week when he ran across the border into North Korea. The UN Command, a US-led multinational force that oversees the Korean War truce, said Monday it has begun discussions with Pyongyang over the missing American serviceman. The post North Korea fires missiles ahead of key anniversary, Seoul says appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Chie Filomeno may sariling pahina sa ‘Star Magic Catalogue’, inalala ang hirap noon: Worth it LAHAT!
ACHIEVEMENT unlocked para sa Kapamilya actress na si Chie Filomeno ang magkaroon ng sariling pahina sa kalalabas lang na catalogue ng Star Magic. Ito ang “Star Magic 30,” isang special anniversary catalogue na ipinapakita ang mga successful events and celebrations na isinagawa ng naturang talent management. Kabilang na riyan ang grand media con, Christmas event, […] The post Chie Filomeno may sariling pahina sa ‘Star Magic Catalogue’, inalala ang hirap noon: Worth it LAHAT! appeared first on Bandera......»»
First EXO-themed café opens in QC
You don’t have to travel all the way to South Korea to experience a taste of Korean culture. A lot of Korean-inspired cafes are already popping up in Metro Manila, providing a familiar and comfortable ambiance especially for coffee enthusiasts and K-pop fans. One trendy, Korean-inspired café that’s making a buzz these days is Café-408, the first EXO-themed café located on the second floor of The Rock Lifestyle Hub in Quezon City. Opened last 8 April, same day as K-pop group EXO’s 11th anniversary, Café-408 serves comfort food and a wide variety of quality coffee and non-coffee beverages. The cafe also incorporates EXO’s aesthetics and concepts. Among its menu are Truffle Fries, pasta, Birthday Cake Cookie, American Breakfast, croissant, muffins, s’mores and Chanyeol’s tteokbokki. Drinks include cold brew, Spanish Latte, Strawberry Mocha Latte, Blue Lemon Fizz and Mango Strawberry Fizz. [caption id="attachment_153711" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Mocha Latte.[/caption] On 30 June, when EXO’s “Hear Me Out” came out, fans gathered at the café for a free viewing of the pre-release track’s much-awaited music video. Similarly, a cupsleeve event was held by PHIXOs (Filipino EXO fans) as a way to celebrate the track’s release. Cupsleeve events are celebrations done by coffee shops or organized by fandoms to celebrate a K-pop artist’s birthday or comeback. Café-408 also unveiled its list of events for July on their social media accounts, including a whole-day open event dedicated to EXO’s comeback on 10 July and a celebration of its subunit EXO-SC’s debut anniversary on 21 July. The post First EXO-themed café opens in QC appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Come early, go home late’
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna on Monday urged all city officials and employees to be punctual and, if needed, work late to finish all tasks. She also encouraged all Manilans to participate in the city’s month-long activities leading up to the celebration of its 452nd founding anniversary on 24 June. Lacuna noted that all city workers take an oath every first Monday of the month during their flag-raising ceremony. In this oath, they vow to give their best in the delivery of basic services needed by the city’s residents. As such, Lacuna stressed the importance of punctuality and willingness to work beyond the designated hours, if only to finish everything that has to be done, to the satisfaction of those who come to City Hall and all its outside units for help. Meanwhile, the mayor announced that the lineup of activities for the month leading up to 24 June, which marks the exact date of the founding of Manila, includes the awarding of local government employees who have rendered long years of dedicated service to the city. Likewise to be feted are Manila residents who have greatly contributed and brought honor to the city. Also the Miss Manila beauty pageant and a socio-civic parade will be held in the historic Moriones district of Tondo during the celebrations. “This is our chance to show how proud we are of our city and our being Manileños,” she said. “Let’s continue loving our city and one another.” The post ‘Come early, go home late’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Nepal celebrates 70 years since first Everest summit
The sons of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa led celebrations in Nepal on Monday to mark the 70th anniversary of the historic first ascent of Everest. The scaling of the 8,849-metre (29,032-foot) peak on 29 May 1953 changed mountaineering forever and made the New Zealander and his Nepalese guide household names. "In a whole lot of ways, it was not just Ed Hillary and Tenzing Norgay that reached the summit of Mount Everest, it was all of humanity," Peter Hillary said at a school founded by his father in the remote village of Khumjung at 3,790 meters. "Suddenly, all of us could go," he said. And gone they have. In the past seven decades, more than 6,000 climbers have climbed the world's highest mountain, according to the Himalayan Database. It remains dangerous, with more than 300 losing their lives in the same period, including 12 this year. Five others are missing, putting 2023 on course to be a record deadly year. As well as supporting tourism, the rapid growth in the climbing industry has raised revenue for Nepal, which today charges foreigners an Everest permit fee of $11,000. Family members of both the climbers joined locals and officials at the school on Monday morning to inaugurate the Sir Edmund Hillary Visitors Centre, housed in the original building, which opened in 1961. Butter lamps were lit in front of a photograph of Hillary and Tenzing, and their sons, Peter Hillary and Jamling Norgay, cut a red ribbon to open the doors to the center. A renovated museum also opened in Tenzing Norgay's name in Namche Bazaar, the largest tourist hub in the trek to the Everest base camp. In Kathmandu, officials and hundreds from the mountaineering community joined a rally with celebratory banners. Top Nepali climbers, including the record holder for most Everest ascents Kami Rita Sherpa, were honored in a ceremony. Sanu Sherpa, the only person to climb the world’s 14 highest peaks twice, called on the government to support the Nepali guides, who bear huge risks to carry equipment and food, fix ropes and repair ladders. "The government has not done much for the Sherpa. I think it would be of great help and we would be happy if the government helps educate children of those climbers who died on mountains," Sherpa told AFP. The post Nepal celebrates 70 years since first Everest summit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Above all, we need peace
It is a great honor to stand before you today to receive the Carlos V European Award. Naturally, I am well aware that this award is not for me alone. I am receiving it also on behalf of the entire United Nations, and for that reason I feel even prouder. Carlos V was not only an emperor but also a man — a man of contrasts. Someone who represented, as few people could, both the progress as well as the challenges and constraints of his era. His reign contributed to the emergence of globalization, thanks in part to the first circumnavigation of the globe which, as you know, served to demonstrate that the Earth is a sphere. That circumnavigation was initially led by a compatriot of mine, Ferdinand Magellan, but was completed by a Spaniard, Juan Sebastián Elcano. We have just celebrated the 500th anniversary of that event. And since commemoration means bringing the past into the present, taking stock and seeing how we are faring, what better occasion to reflect on how much our planet has changed since then. Five centuries later, how would one go about explaining how our world has changed? No doubt he would be fascinated to see how Europe has changed, the union that has been achieved despite centuries of conflict. To see that today, on this continent and beyond, former enemies are now partners in trade, leadership and progress. But he would probably also be surprised to know that, today, those values are still being put to the test. That war is not a thing of the past. That divisions remain and are even growing. That we are burning down our only home. That families are being forced to flee — from war or extreme climate events — on a scale we have not seen in decades. That hunger and poverty are still with us. Yes, some things are difficult to explain — and even more difficult to excuse — to someone that lived more than 500 years ago. As we consider the complex legacy of Carlos V and the global nature of his empire, we can find inspiration to rediscover the universal values, principles and ideas that unite us as a human family. Never since the creation of the United Nations and the European Union have these values been so threatened. Therefore, we must raise our voices today and reaffirm those values. And above all, we need peace. The United Nations, as well as the European Union, were created in the name of peace, after the horror of two world wars. Peace remains our North Star and our most precious goal. Yet the struggle for peace may seem at times like a Sisyphean task. We live in a world today in which peace is elusive and fragile. Violence is rampant in too many corners of the globe. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which is a violation of the Charter of the United Nations and international law, is causing massive suffering and devastation to the country and its people and comes on top of the worldwide economic dislocation triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic. Wars and humanitarian crises are spreading, sometimes before our very eyes, but often far from the spotlight. They are more complex, and interconnected, and their impact is growing by the day. Peace must never be underestimated or taken for granted. We must work to make peace and to keep it, every day, tirelessly. In a world that is tearing itself apart, we must heal divisions, prevent escalation and listen to grievances. Instead of bullets, we need diplomatic arsenals. This is what is set out in the Charter of the United Nations. Negotiation, mediation, conciliation, arbitration: We must try everything to settle our disputes by peaceful means. Of course, there will be lasting peace only if we achieve the full participation and leadership of women at the decision-making table. Now is the time to reaffirm the primacy of peace. Peace among people and peace with nature. Because the war we are waging against our planet is putting humanity’s very survival in danger. Climate chaos is unleashing fires, floods, drought, like here in Spain, and other extreme weather events on every continent. Each year these events are uprooting millions of people who often have to seek refuge in countries and communities that are equally vulnerable. We know that this exacerbates tensions and ignites conflicts. Taking action for our planet is taking action for peace. Hate speech, the polarization, racism and xenophobia are spreading at the speed of a mouse click. In the face of rising xenophobia, racism and extremism, we must defend our common humanity. Today more than ever, in our divided world, building bridges is the only option. *** Excerpts from the UN Secretary-General’s remarks to the Carlos V European Award, Yuste Monastery, Spain, 9 May 2023 The post Above all, we need peace appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A1 returning to Manila as part of 25th anniversary celebrations, ticket prices
British–Norwegian boy band A1 is coming back to the Philippines just as the group celebrates 25 years in the music industry......»»