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‘Sinag’ and ‘Lupa’: Light that guides and land that nourishes
In late September 2019, the Cultural Center of the Philippines mounted the son et lumiere titled “Sinag: Festival of Radiance,” accompanied by a video projected on the façade of its iconic Brutalist Main Building, dancing fountain, performances and installations, as part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of one of the Philippines’ revered cultural institutions. The light show was staged again in the following years with different themes even during the imposed lockdowns in the first years of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 and 2021, serving as beacon of hope during one of the most challenging times for the arts and culture sector. The “Sinag” light-and-sound show continued to be mounted this year, fast becoming a tradition for CCP, as it commemorated its 54th founding anniversary and signaled the sector’s embarking on the road to recovery. It also recognized the sector’s perseverance and determination to continue creating and healing with its theme, “Tuloy Ang Palabas”(The Show Continues).” This year, the Main Building has remained dark and silent as it closed down in January for a three-year rehabilitation and renovation, but it came alive again from 28 September to 1 October for “Sinag 2023: Tuloy Ang Palabas.” A short video was projected on the façade, showing snippets of productions, projects and performances in the past nine months, all held in different venues outside the Main Building. The main part was a spectacle of colors and moving patterns, conceptualized by CCP light designers Camille Balistoy, Danilo Villanueva, Louie Alcoran and Shantie De Roca. This was accompanied by music by Soundridemusic and Makai-symphony, spliced by Jerry Tria. Capping the show was a video showing CCP’s reach in the country, through a map created by Reily Villaruz, as well as glimpses of performances and projects in the planning, accompanied by Jed Balsamo’s “Rurok.” As the CCP Main Building highlighted art’s role as light giver, the park beside it, CCP Liwasang KaLIKHAsan, is venue for an exhibit of installations depicting popular creatures of Philippine folklore. [caption id="attachment_191675" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Kapre. | PhotoGRAPHS by Roel Hoang Manipon FOR THE DAILY TRIBUNE[/caption] The kapre, aswang and tikbalang often figure in horror stories told to children, but acclaimed artist Abdulmari “Toym” de Leon Imao, son of the late National Artist for visual arts Abdulmari Asia Imao, regarded them as nature guardians, thus the title “Tanod-Lupa.” “Tanod-Lupa” was first mounted in celebration of Earth Day on 22 April, but was brought back for the anniversary celebration, and it seems fitting for the Halloween and Christmas seasons. Imao was inspired by stories about these creatures, many of which most likely can be traced from pre-colonial times, during his childhood. “My mom is Kapampangan, and they have wonderful stories of mythology such as Apo Mallari god of Mount Pinatubo. My dad came from the South. He was a Tausug. Mindanao is also rich in stories. The Sarimanok itself is a mythical creature. My appreciation comes from a fascination from childhood and growing up with these stories and narratives from my parents,” he said. “I am very fascinated with tikbalang. There are some stories that tell that it is actually a friend. The tikbalang also has a masculine appearance, very heroic,” he added. Working together with lantern makers from San Fernando City, Pampanga, headed by Arvin Bondoc Quiwa, and using materials such welded steel, fiberglass, ropes and lanterns with LED lights, Imao reimagined the creatures to be cartoonish but still retaining some scary and mysterious qualities. [caption id="attachment_191676" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Manananggal.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_191674" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Duwende.[/caption] The bright installations of kapre, duwende, manananggal, aswang, nuno sa punso and tikbalang are scattered around the park — under a balete, in between coconut trees, among overgrown weeds and unkempt bushes — and accompanied by eerie sounds designed by TJ Ramos. The most prominent among Imao’s works is his large installation in the shape of the panolong, a decorative detail of the traditional house of the Meranaw people, and the sarimanok, a popular design motif of several Moro ethnic groups, frequently used by his father in his works. [caption id="attachment_191677" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Nuno sa punso.[/caption] “Tanod-Lupa” is a work in progress, and more installations are being planned to be added to the collection. “With themes like climate change and cultural promotion, it’s perfect for us to bring these creatures from folklore and mythologies to the forefront. We are not the only inhabitants of our environment. We share it with other beings and creatures. Our ancestors remind us that we take good care of our environment lest these ‘tanod-lupa’ come out to remind us of our shortcomings,” Imao said. The post ‘Sinag’ and ‘Lupa’: Light that guides and land that nourishes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Hercules’ actor Kevin Sorbo thinks Timothée Chalamet is killing ‘real masculinity’
American actor and producer Kevin Sorbo, who starred as the Greek demigod Hercules in the 1990s show Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, is angry about allegedly being “canceled” by Hollywood for his conservative views and Christian beliefs. In a controversial essay titled “Make Hollywood Manly Again” published on Fox News, the actor griped about how Hollywood and the media are supposedly putting traditional male roles in a negative light. “Fathers, in particular, have become the butt of every woke Hollywood jab, the bumbling, useless idiots who contribute nothing to their families or communities, but sacrifice themselves as objects of ridicule,” Sorbo wrote. Lamenting the rise of female-centric “girl boss” films in recent years, Sorbo complained that men are now portrayed as the “impotent sitcom father” and the “brutish he-man who only abuses his strength and makes a mockery of masculinity.” [caption id="attachment_189784" align="aligncenter" width="318"] Timothée Chalamet[/caption] The right-wing actor reserved particular venom for actors Timothée Chalamet and Billy Porter for their androgynous fashion sense. “Society today seriously misunderstands masculinity. On the one hand, we love to normalize androgynous, Billy Porter-type men who sport skirts and poofy dresses,” Sorbo wrote. As for Chalamet: “Let’s just say your grandfather wouldn’t have been caught dead dressed like Chalamet.” Chalamet has been acclaimed for redefining modern men’s fashion and style. His eclectic and atypical roles in films have been reflected in his unique and bold personal style on the red carpet. [caption id="attachment_189785" align="aligncenter" width="316"] Billy Porter[/caption] The Call Me By Your Name superstar was a head-turner at the premiere of his 2018 film Beautiful Boy with a statement tuxedo by Alexander McQueen in a graphic floral motif that gave a fresher and more youthful look to the standard male formal get-up. In 2022, the Oscar-nominated actor once again dominated fashion headlines when he wore a sleeveless and backless Haider Ackermann custom red halter-neck top at his red-carpet appearance for the romantic horror film Bones and All. Porter, a Tony, Grammy and Emmy award-winning actor, is likewise regarded as a fashion icon for flaunting genderless clothing in his public appearances. Exhibit A was his appearance at the 91st Academy Awards, where he wore a velvet tuxedo jacket paired with a ball gown. The post ‘Hercules’ actor Kevin Sorbo thinks Timothée Chalamet is killing ‘real masculinity’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UN chief convenes ‘no nonsense’ climate summit, without China or US
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is set Wednesday to host a climate meeting marred at its outset by the absence of speakers from the world's top two emitters, China and the United States. Despite increasing extreme weather events and record-shattering global temperatures, greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise and fossil fuel companies reap handsome profits. Guterres has thus billed the "Climate Ambition Summit" as a "no nonsense" forum where leaders or cabinet ministers will announce specific actions that deliver on their commitments under the Paris Agreement. The bar for making the podium was set high, with the UN chief making clear that only leaders who had made concrete plans to achieve net-zero greenhouse emissions would be allowed to speak. After receiving more than 100 applications to take part, the UN finally released a list on Tuesday night of 41 speakers which did not include China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan or India. "Tomorrow, I will welcome credible first movers and doers to our Climate Ambition Summit," Guterres said Tuesday. Several major leaders didn't bother making the trip to New York for this year's UN General Assembly, including President Xi Jinping of China and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak from the United Kingdom, who said he was too busy. US President Joe Biden, who addressed the General Assembly on Tuesday, sent his climate envoy John Kerry to the meeting -- though Kerry won't be permitted to speak. "There's no doubt that the absence of so many leaders from the world's biggest economies and emitters will clearly have an impact on the outcomes of the summit," Alden Meyer of climate think tank E3G said. He blamed competing issues -- from the Ukraine conflict to US-China tensions and rising economic uncertainty. "But I think it's also the opposition in many of these countries from the fossil fuel industry and other powerful interests to the kind of transformational changes that are needed," said Meyer. Catherine Abreu, executive director of nonprofit Destination Zero, said it was "perhaps a good-news story that we see Biden not being given a speaking slot at the summit" because the United States is continuing to expand fossil fuel projects even as it makes historic investments in renewables. "I think about this as being a correction from past summits, where leaders have been given the opportunity to take credit for climate leadership on the global stage, while they continue to pursue plans to develop fossil fuels, and continue driving the climate crisis back at home," she added. While the United States won't take the rostrum, California will be represented by Governor Gavin Newsom. From Britain, London Mayor Sadiq Khan will also attend. Growing anger The event is the biggest climate summit in New York since 2019, when Greta Thunberg stunned the world with her "How Dare You" speech before the UN. Anger is building among climate activists, particularly younger people, who turned out in thousands last weekend for the "March to End Fossil Fuels" in New York. Observers are eager however to see what Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and European Union President Ursula von der Leyen say both on their own goals and on financing commitments for the developing world. The failure of advanced economies, responsible for the majority of historic emissions, to honor their promises to the worst affected lower-income nations has long been a sore point in climate talks. There are some bright spots, including the announcement that Colombia and Panama are joining a grouping called the Powering Past Coal Alliance -- particularly notable as Colombia is the world's sixth biggest coal exporter. Wednesday's summit comes weeks ahead of the COP28 climate talks in the United Arab Emirates, where goals include tripling renewable energy by 2030, and ending by 2050 the generation of fossil fuel energy that isn't "abated" by carbon capture technology. The post UN chief convenes ‘no nonsense’ climate summit, without China or US appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ERRAMON Aboitiz: Renaissance man
The Aboitiz family is a big player in Philippine business for over a century. With businesses covering a wide range of industries, including power, banking, food, and infrastructure, the clan’s Aboitiz Group has been creating jobs and opportunities for Filipinos. Founded by Paulino Aboitiz, son of a Spanish farmer who migrated to the Philippines in the late 1800s, Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc., or AEV, has grown from being an abaca-trading and general-merchandise business to a conglomerate with interests in power, banking, food, property, biofuel and construction. The group is undergoing its Great Transformation to establish itself as the Philippines’ pioneering techglomerate. This innovative growth strategy, powered by technology and a renewed entrepreneurial mindset, empowers the entire group to advance businesses and uplift communities. Among the driving forces propelling the Group’s business revolution is Erramon “Montxu” Aboitiz. Montxu previously served as the president and chief executive at Aboitiz Equity Ventures for 10 years from 2009 to 2019. He also briefly held the role of CEO at Aboitiz Power Corp. in 2018. Presently, he serves as a director at AEV and Endeavor Philippines and as chairman of the Board of Directors at Union Bank of the Philippines. Likewise, he serves as a board observer of the Aboitiz & Company. The Asian Institute of Management named Montxu as the new chairman of its Board of Trustees, effective from 1 September 2023. Montxu joined a respected group of successful business leaders who are dedicated to advancing the progress and welfare of Asia and its inhabitants. He was the 7th chairman of AIM, taking over from Peter Garrucho who held the position since 2017. Montxu graduated from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, USA with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting and Finance. In 2011, he was awarded the Management Man of the Year by the Management Association of the Philippines and recognized as the Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young. Seven years after that, AIM awarded Montxu with an honorary doctorate in management. Social responsibility runs in Aboitiz blood The Aboitiz Foundation, the social responsibility arm of the Aboitiz Group, donated $10 million to AIM in 2019 — known as the Aboitiz 100th Anniversary Commitment Fund. The fund aims to bridge the local and regional gap in data science and innovation. As a result of this generous donation, AIM’s Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship is now able to provide top-notch education and research opportunities in data science, with a focus on practical applications. This is made possible by collaborating with data science professionals and leaders from around the world. Recently, Montxu was elected chairperson of the AIM board of trustees. He is widely recognized for his strong commitment to social responsibility and philanthropy. Regarding the endowment to AIM, Montxu said it targeted assisting AIM in its efforts “to expand its curriculum and facilities towards the direction of a bold future, and the skills and education it will require.” Through his leadership in the Aboitiz Group and the Aboitiz Foundation, he has spearheaded numerous projects that have made a positive impact on local communities. As chairman of the Aboitiz Foundation, Montxu has played a key role in shaping its initiatives. The foundation focuses on three key areas which are education, enterprise development, and environmental conservation. “As businessmen, there is no doubt we seek profits and a return on our capital. But as Filipinos, we are equally guided by a sense of purpose to find meaningful ways of contributing to our communities across the country. This symbiotic relationship of profit and contributing to society is our secret sauce to true sustainability, allowing the Aboitiz Group to drive change for a better world by advancing business and communities,” Montxu added. The foundation implemented various programs and scholarships to improve access to quality education, foster entrepreneurship and livelihood opportunities, and promote sustainability. Aboitiz Foundation has been heavily involved in rehabilitating and improving schools in underprivileged areas. They have renovated classrooms, libraries and other facilities, providing students with better learning environments. The foundation has also donated learning materials and equipment to enhance the educational experience of students. Aboitiz Foundation supports community-based programs that aim to uplift marginalized communities. These programs focus on various aspects such as health, nutrition, livelihood, and disaster resilience. The foundation works closely with local organizations and stakeholders to implement sustainable solutions and empower communities to become self-sufficient. Aboitiz Foundation places significant emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainability. They have initiated projects to protect and restore ecosystems, promote renewable energy, and reduce carbon footprint. The foundation actively supports reforestation efforts, marine conservation, and waste management initiatives. The foundation also has a strong focus on disaster response and preparedness. They have been at the forefront of providing immediate relief and support during natural disasters, such as typhoons, earthquakes and floods. The foundation also works towards building resilient communities by conducting disaster risk reduction and management training programs. Montxu Aboitiz encourages and supports employee volunteerism within the Aboitiz Group. The company promotes a culture of giving back by providing employees with opportunities to engage in community service and volunteer activities. This not only benefits the communities they serve but also fosters a sense of social responsibility among the employees. It also collaborates with various non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to maximize the impact of their social responsibility initiatives. They work together to address complex social issues and implement sustainable solutions that create lasting change. Aligned with the United Nations Global Compact, AEV drives policies, advocacies, and initiatives to make a lasting impact. The post ERRAMON Aboitiz: Renaissance man appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Helmut Lang and Ralph Lauren kick off New York Fashion Week
Amid sweltering heat and jitters over the Hollywood strike, New York kicked off its Spring-Summer 2024 Fashion Week on Friday, with heavyweights Ralph Lauren and Helmut Lang returning to the industry's flagship event with fresh ideas. American luxury brand Coach unveiled its collection of sensual translucent dresses at the New York Public Library in Manhattan on Thursday, but the event was briefly disrupted by animal rights activists. As Vogue editor Anna Wintour and Jennifer Lopez watched the show, two female protesters from the animal rights group PETA -- one covered in body paint that mimicked animal flaying and another holding a poster that read "Coach: Leather Kills" -- joined the models on the runway before security led them away. At another unofficial kick-off event on Wednesday, featuring Naomi Campbell, Doja Cat, Naomi Osaka and Gigi Hadid, the iconic lingerie label Victoria's Secret teased a film meant to showcase the brand's new and more inclusive identity after it was criticized for designing garments that objectify women. The film, entitled "The Victoria's Secret World Tour," to be released on Amazon Prime at the end of September, highlights the work of creators and artists from Lagos, London, Bogota, and Tokyo. Yellow taxi This year, New York Fashion Week will feature young talents and emerging brands, along with heavyweights such as Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Altuzarra, Gabriela Hearst, Carolina Herrera, Tory Burch, and Luar. The city will then pass the baton to London, Milan, and Paris. "New York has always been a cornerstone of Fashion Week," said Steven Kolb, CEO of the Council of Fashion Designers of America. "It really underscores how strong it is, in terms of presenting creative thinking." Under the humid heat of the New York summer, the six-day marathon kicked off Friday afternoon in Manhattan's Lower East Side with a show by Helmut Lang, who rose to fame in the 1990s and 2000s, thanks to the minimalist aesthetic of the Austrian artist. Helmut Lang, the designer, left fashion in 2005 but Helmut Lang, the brand, lives on, bought by Prada and then by the Japanese group Fast Retailing, which owns Uniqlo. The brand now returns to the runways of the Big Apple with a collection concocted by its new artistic director, Peter Do, widely considered a fashion prodigy. The show had nostalgic undertones, a bow to the 1990s when it became the first fashion brand to advertise on New York yellow taxi signs. Fewer red carpets Another brand to make its return on Friday, albeit in Brooklyn where many of the fashion shows have migrated, was Ralph Lauren, the legendary brand that defined American elegance and embodied preppy US style with an annual turnover of more than $6 billion. The brand, whose founder was born in the Bronx, has not held a show in New York since 2019. This fashion season is marked by the double strike of Hollywood screenwriters and actors seeking better compensation, which has reduced the number of red carpet previews to a minimum, thus depriving brands of a chance to dress stars and promote themselves in the process. "Certainly, the red carpet is a way to speak to the audience," said Kolb, adding that fashion shows were no less important. The "content that they create for social channels will contribute to a very loud, very visible Fashion Week," he added. The post Helmut Lang and Ralph Lauren kick off New York Fashion Week appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Iloilo City: Bold, vibrant, indelible
The Philippines is no doubt a country with a rich and diverse history, having been colonized by the Spanish, Americans and Japanese and becoming a melting pot of cultures still evident in modern times. [caption id="attachment_175000" align="aligncenter" width="1015"] Iloilo City skyline. Photograph Courtesy Of Wikicommons/paulo Alcazaren/ Cc By-sa 4.0[/caption] [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="175004,175005"] The influence of these colonizers left a deep imprint in the Filipinos’ heritage and culture, and the semblance of these inherited traits can be seen in Iloilo City, located on Panay Island in Western Visayas. The city faces Iloilo Strait and Guimaras Island across it, making it a natural harbor and a safe anchorage for ships. It is bordered by the towns of Oton in the west, Pavia in the north and Leganes in the northeast. Just across the Iloilo Strait in its eastern and southern coastlines are the towns of Buenavista and Jordan in the island-province of Guimaras. The metropolitan area is composed of the City of Iloilo, the municipalities of Leganes, Pavia, Santa Barbara, Cabatuan, San Miguel, Oton, the Island Province of Guimaras and its five municipalities — Sibunag, San Lorenzo, Nueva Valencia, Buenavista and Jordan. The city was founded in 1566 by Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. It quickly became a major trading center due to its strategic location on the coast of the Sulu Sea. In the early days of the Spanish period, the first Manila galleons were originally constructed at the port of Oton to the west of Iloilo. The early Visayans were already constructing huge multi-masted four- to five-decked caracoas in their wars against the other kingdoms. Thus, the technical know-how to construct the first Manila galleons was a blend of Visayan shipbuilding and Spanish shipbuilding. After the defeat of the Spanish forces in the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish–American War, the capital of the Spanish East Indies was transferred to Iloilo, with General Diego de los Rios as the new Governor General residing in the city. A truce was declared between the American and the Spanish forces pending the negotiations of the joint commission of both warring countries in Paris, France, for the terms of peace. In the 19th century, Iloilo City became a major producer of sugar which helped further develop the city’s economy and infrastructure. Iloilo City was also a major center of the Philippine revolution against Spain. Major center of education During World War II, Iloilo City was heavily damaged. However, the city was rebuilt after the war, becoming an industrial center and its port transforming into one of the busiest in the Philippines. Iloilo City also became a major center of education, with many universities and colleges opening in the city. The next three decades saw the moderate growth of Iloilo City with the establishment of fish ports, an international seaport, and other commercial firms. Iloilo City also became the regional center of Western Visayas. In 1977, a Comprehensive Urban Development Plan for Iloilo City was approved and was adopted by the Sangguniang Panlungsod. The Land Use Plan and Zoning Ordinance was the implementing tool. However, the 1977 Plan was unable to cope with the demands of rapid urbanization. In late 1993, a multi-sectoral group prepared the 1994-2010 Comprehensive Development Plan of Iloilo City to amend the old plan and address the present and future challenges of urban development. The plan, however, was not carried pending the approval of the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board. Today, Iloilo City is a major commercial and industrial center in the Philippines. It is also a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food and vibrant culture. It has become a hub for trade, commerce, finance, technology, medical tourism, hospitality, real estate, tourism, education and industry in the Western Visayas region. Major industries in the city include port management, telecommunications infrastructure and utilities, banking and finance, retail trading, real estate, tourism and business process outsourcing. The local government has also provided incentives to businesses in certain investment areas, such as income tax holidays and free issuance of permits and licenses. Tourism contributes in a major way to Iloilo City’s economy. Not only is it a gateway to Western Visayas, but the metropolis itself hosts notable festivals that entice thousands of tourists annually, especially during the Dinagyang, Paraw Regatta — Asia’s oldest sailing event — and Fiesta de Candelaria festivals seasons. 'City of Love' Iloilo City’s bannered monickers like “City of Love” and “City of Mansions” and intensified local government’s programs such as the beautification of major thoroughfares in the city and building of parks have all played a role in attracting local and foreign visitors. There are myriad attractions in the city that tourists can visit — heritage landmarks, museums, art galleries, parks and restaurants, to name a few. Nightlife in the metro, with Smallville Complex as the mecca for party-goers, sees revelers out and about every night especially on Friday and weekends. Since it’s a well-known Philippine heritage city built during the Spanish era, heritage tourism also adds to Iloilo City’s charm. Centuries-old churches, old edifices and mansions of well-known Ilonggo families lure sightseers from different places who want to discover Iloilo City’s rich and glorious past. Iloilo City is also a respected gastronomic capital, with famous local dishes that have gained popularity throughout the country — La Paz Batchoy, Pancit Molo, Kansi, Laswa and KBL (Kadyos, Baboy kag Langka). In 2018 alone, Iloilo City attracted the highest tourist arrivals in Western Visayas, posting 1,242,087 total arrivals, including 1,154,550 domestic visitors, 70,787 foreign guests and 16,750 overseas workers. In 2019, it garnered an 11.59 percent increase in tourist arrivals, and in 2020, the city again achieved its target with 1.4 million tourists. The post Iloilo City: Bold, vibrant, indelible appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Designer Jie -jie Aisa on muse Nikki de Moura
So far, the city of Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao has produced two beauties of international caliber: Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach and Miss InterContinental 2021 Cinderella Faye Elle “Cindy” Obeñita. Hoping to make it a Beauty Queen Trinity is Nikki Advincula de Moura, the newly crowned Miss Grand Philippines who will compete for the global title in Vietnam come October. [caption id="attachment_173643" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Miss Grand Philippines 2023 Nikki de Moura, wearing a terno by Jie-jie Aisa, in front of the Saint Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral in Cagayan de Oro. | Photograph Courtesy of James Paculba.[/caption] There are great expectations that De Moura, who is of exquisite mix of Brazilian and Filipino blood, will finally snatch the elusive Miss Grand International crown. Helping her to achieve this feat is her glam team from Cebu and her beauty camp in her native CDO. At the national finals, De Moura wore a creation by Eclectic Image Fashion Studio by Jie-jie Aisa for the national costume competition. It was called “Oportunidad de Oro” or “Golden Opportunities,” inspired by the city’s mythical golden fish which is believed to be its protector. It was one of the top five in the category. For her homecoming after her victory, De Moura once again wore a Jie-jie Aisa creation. “The gown beautifully blends two symbolic colors — green, representing unity and #KaubanTaUY, and gold, paying homage to CDO’s renowned title as the City of Golden Friendship,” the designer noted. “A true embodiment of grace and local pride, Nikki shines bright during her homecoming motorcade, capturing hearts of Kagay-anons and embodying the essence of this remarkable city. Thank you to LGU-CDO headed by Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy for making this possible.” Incidentally, the bustling city is in the midst of celebrating its Higalaay Festival, a major highlight of which is the Mindanao Fashion Summit from 23 to 25 August at the Ayala Centrio Mall. As the president of the Designer’s Assembly, Jie-jie will lead his group’s presentation on the second day, 24 August. “As the president, my key duties and responsibilities encompass leading and guiding the organization’s strategic direction, fostering a collaborative environment among budding designers, overseeing project initiatives, coordinating events and workshops and representing the interests of our members within the design community,” the genial designer said. “I am dedicated to ensuring the growth and success of our group by nurturing creativity, facilitating skill development and promoting meaningful engagement within the design industry.” On the eve of the 12th Mindanao Fashion Summit, the designer, who considers Gil Macaiba III, the late Benjie S. Manuel and Cary Santiago as influences, recounts his collaborative relationship with his muse, De Moura. Origins “My acquaintance with Nikki de Moura developed through mutual connections within the fashion and pageant industry. Our paths crossed after a local beauty camp in Cebu City introduced her to our camp in Cagayan de Oro City, the #TeamAmega. Since I am the official designer of our beauty camp, I had the opportunity to design her creative national costume as well as her outfits during her homecoming. “The idea of a creative collaboration for her gowns/outfits emerged organically from recognizing the synergy between our camp’s visions, we jointly initiated the collaboration, fueled by a shared passion for crafting unique and captivating ensembles that would resonate with her style and my design expertise.” Muse “Nikki exemplifies the essence of a stunning Jie-jie Aisa muse through her remarkable blend of grace, confidence and distinctive style. Her ability to effortlessly carry both traditional and contemporary ensembles reflects the dynamic spirit of the Jie-jie Aisa brand. Nikki’s poise and fashion-forward sensibilities resonate with the brand’s commitment to celebrating cultural heritage while embracing modern aesthetics. As a local fashion designer, collaborating with such a muse has been an inspiring journey, elevating my creations to new heights of elegance and sophistication.” Collaborations “Throughout the collaboration between myself as a local fashion designer and Nikki, we found common ground in our enthusiasm for integrating indigenous design elements into the collection. However, there were nuanced differences in our visions, particularly concerning the color palette’s vibrancy and the extent of embellishments. By fostering open dialogue and embracing a spirit of mutual respect, we arrived at a compromise that elegantly balanced the client’s preference for a more subdued palette with my inclination for bolder accents. This harmonious negotiation resulted in a collection that seamlessly reflects both Nikki’s refined taste and my artistic perspective.” Pride “I am immensely proud of Nikki’s accomplishments, both as Miss Teen Philippines 2019 and more recently as Miss Grand Philippines 2023. These achievements reflect not only her individual dedication and perseverance but also the embodiment of our nation’s beauty, talent and grace on esteemed platforms. Nikki’s success brings honor not just to herself but also to the Philippines, and it is a privilege to have contributed to my journey as a local fashion designer. Her victories inspire me to continue creating designs that complement and enhance the remarkable qualities of individuals like Nikki.” Preparations “From our perspective, the entire #TeamAmega is wholeheartedly committed to providing unwavering support to Nikki during her time in Vietnam. As for her national costume, we are awaiting confirmation from the Miss Grand Philippines Organization regarding my potential involvement in designing her ensemble. Rest assured we are eagerly prepared to contribute our expertise to ensure her representation is nothing short of exceptional.” Challenges “As a designer, crafting pageant gowns presents a unique set of challenges that require a delicate balance between artistic expression and meeting specific criteria. Ensuring that the gown captures the contestant’s individuality while aligning with the pageant’s theme and standards demands meticulous attention to detail. “Additionally, incorporating elements that reflect cultural authenticity and modern aesthetics requires thoughtful navigation. The challenge lies in harmonizing these diverse aspects to create a gown that not only enhances the contestant’s beauty and confidence but also makes a lasting impression on the judges and audience.” “Working with beauty queens brings its own distinct dynamic compared to designing for everyday women. Beauty queens possess a heightened sense of stage presence and a requirement for gowns that accentuate their elegance under the spotlight. The meticulous attention to fit, silhouette and materials is magnified.” The post Designer Jie -jie Aisa on muse Nikki de Moura appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
9 shades of Barbie
Inspired by Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated film Barbie, OPI joins Warner Bros. and Mattel in ushering Barbie from the big screen into the real world with OPI Barbie the Movie Collection. The nine limited-edition shades tap into the fun-in-the-sun, dance-all-night, every-day-is-your-best-day themes of the movie, and the names, which were conceptualized with the film’s director and writer Gerwig, channel the film’s feel-good energy. Nail enthusiasts can embrace the current Barbiecore trend with four mood-boosting pinks in crème and metallic finishes, including a bold, saturated magenta hue. In addition to Barbie’s signature hot pink, the collection also includes three bright shades of lemon yellow, sky blue, and shimmery baby blue. Two glitter shades with iridescent, silver, and pink foil particles round out the collection and add extra sparkle to the spectrum of fun, vibrant hues. “OPI is excited to partner with Warner Bros. and Mattel for this collection. Barbie represents empowerment and inclusivity, which are core values of OPI,” explains OPI co-founder and brand ambassador Suzi Weiss-Fischmann. “With a nail color for every mood and moment, the OPI consumer is poised to do anything. When it comes to using color for self-expression, there are no limits, just as there are no limits to what the wearer can accomplish.” “The pink aesthetic is a fashion and beauty staple, and this collection’s hero shade Hi Barbie!–a catchphrase from the upcoming film that is already taking the internet by storm–epitomizes the Barbiecore trend,” adds OPI Global Director of Color Equity Jill Bartoshevich. “The collection’s palette of nostalgia-evoking hues offers consumers a taste of escapism with an array of joyful colors.” The post 9 shades of Barbie appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Singapore races to save ‘Garbage of Eden’
Visitors to the island hosting Singapore's only landfill might expect foul odors and swarms of flies, but instead, they are greeted with stunning views of blue waters, lush greenery, and wildlife. Welcome to Pulau Semakau, the land-scarce city's eco-friendly trash island, where ash from the incinerated garbage of its nearly six million people is dumped. With just over a decade to go until the site is projected to be filled, the government is in a race against time to extend the lifespan of the island landfill, so serene it has earned the moniker "Garbage of Eden". "This is the only landfill in Singapore, and due to the small area and the competing land needs, it is difficult to find another location," Desmond Lee, the landfill manager at the National Environment Agency (NEA), which oversees the island, tells AFP. "It is imperative that we continue to use the Semakau landfill for as long as possible, and if possible extend its life beyond 2035," he says. 'Massive waste' Singapore generated 7.4 million tonnes of waste last year, of which about 4.2 million tonnes, or 57 percent, were recycled. Plastics remain a sticking point for the island’s waste drive, with just 6 percent recycled last year. Food waste, of which 18 percent was recycled, also poses a problem. Environmental group Greenpeace criticized the city-state for producing a "massive" amount of waste for its size. In 2019, the government launched a "zero-waste" campaign seeking to boost the amount of recycled waste to 70 percent and slash the amount of trash dumped at Semakau by 30 percent before the end of the decade. Roughly the size of New York City, Singapore has carefully managed its rapid growth in recent decades to avoid the problems faced by other fast-developing Asian metropolises, such as overcrowding and undisposed garbage. The government built the offshore landfill after an inland waste depot began running out of space in the early 1990s. Engineers merged Semakau -- whose residents had earlier been resettled to the mainland -- with the nearby island of Pulau Sakeng. A seven-kilometer (four-mile) perimeter bund was constructed to enclose part of the open sea between the two islands and create space for the landfill, which began operating in 1999. Pollution risks With Singapore’s population growing steadily, authorities were forced to roll out bold, space-saving solutions. Incinerators were deployed to burn non-recyclable waste, before authorities shipped the ash to Semakau on a covered barge. But the practice of burning the rubbish has been criticized by environmental groups for its pollution. "The process results in pollution in each of its phases -- from waste hauling to managing air emissions and residues," Abigail Aguilar, Greenpeace's anti-plastics campaigner for Southeast Asia, told AFP. "While aesthetically it might be appealing, the landfill still contains waste that could potentially leak," said Aguilar. The NEA has said its incineration plants are fitted with treatment systems that clean the gas before they are released into the atmosphere. It added that the landfill had been lined with an impermeable membrane and marine clay to contain any potential pollution within the site, and the water is tested regularly for leakage. Eco island There could still be more use for Singapore's garbage island, with plans to build solar farms and also to turn ash from the landfill into road construction materials. After the barge docks on Semakau, earthmovers scoop the ash and load them onto giant yellow tipper trucks for the trip to the landfill, which has been subdivided into sections. As each pit is progressively filled up over the years, the area is covered with soil, allowing for the growth of natural vegetation. Mangrove forests have also been planted, making the island verdant and attracting wildlife. During a recent visit by an AFP team, a couple of brahminy kites were seen swooping down on the water to catch fish, while a white-bellied sea eagle circled above. Red-wattled lapwings made bird calls on the edge of a mangrove patch and little terns maneuvered above a filled-up pit. A family of grebes swam on a pond, its dike lined with coconut trees. The post Singapore races to save ‘Garbage of Eden’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
GMA GALA 2023: TOP STUNNERS
The GMA GALA 2023 took the fashion world by storm last weekend, becoming the most talked-about event in town. Fashionistas and trendsetters alike were eagerly fixated on their Instagram newsfeeds, waiting for glimpses of the celebs’ classic “elegant formal” evening ensembles and stunning attire. This year marked the GMA Gala’s sophomore edition, and it was nothing short of spectacular, thanks to the great design vision of event stylist Gideon Hermosa. The event was held on Saturday, 22 July, in Pasay City’s opulent Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom. The occasion saw the attendance of top artists from GMA’s roster of talents, and to everyone’s delight, it was the first time that both Kapuso and Kapamilya stars came together under one roof to celebrate new milestones. Among the glitz and glamor, Daily Tribune compiled a list of the most stylish individuals who truly shone with their remarkable outfits, deserving special recognition for their impeccable fashion choices: Marian Rivera dazzled in a pure white Danielle Frankel gown with a tulle train and beautiful plissé embellishments. Her husband, Dingdong Dantes, complimented her look with a burgundy tuxedo, making them the night’s most eye-catching couple. [caption id="attachment_163212" align="aligncenter" width="1692"] Marian Rivera, And Dingdong Dantes[/caption] Heart Evangelista, a global fashion icon, radiated sass in her ‘60s-inspired Schiaparelli dress adorned with paillettes and the label’s signature nipple design, as well as in her sparkling Bulgari jewelry. [caption id="attachment_163196" align="aligncenter" width="716"] Heart Evangelista | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/HEART EVANGELISTA[/caption] Bea Alonzo, the recently engaged maven, looked chic and alluring in a corset dress from AZ Factory that expertly emphasized her proportions. Along with her fiancé Dominic Roque, she carried out the appearance with a beaded clutch and Bulgari jewelry. [caption id="attachment_163209" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Bea Alonzo[/caption] Barbie Forteza reimagined the modern Maria Clara, looking at once mature, young, and refined in a form-fitting mint green silk gown by Ehrann Montoya, [caption id="attachment_163210" align="aligncenter" width="1809"] Barbie Forteza[/caption] Gabbi Garcia embraced a sleek and sultry island-inspired fashion in her skin-flattering dress by Martin Bautista, featuring a tiered fringe skirt and mesh overlay. [caption id="attachment_163211" align="aligncenter" width="1771"] Gabbi Garcia, and Martin Bautista[/caption] Sanya Lopez wowed as a golden goddess in a lavish serpentina gown designed by Michael Leyva that highlighted her curvy form with complex drapery. [caption id="attachment_163207" align="aligncenter" width="1779"] SANYA Lopez[/caption] Kylie Padilla evoked her memorable performance as Amihan in Encantadia. The look included a dramatic off-the-shoulder garment with pleats and beautiful patterns in a Chrysalis red carpet costume by Ehrran Montoya. [caption id="attachment_163198" align="aligncenter" width="759"] Kylie Padilla[/caption] Anne Curtis exuded classic elegance in a white column gown by Saint Laurent with Tiffany jewels and a Holly Golightly-inspired updo modeled after Audrey Hepburn’s character in Sabrina. [caption id="attachment_163208" align="aligncenter" width="1507"] Anne Curtis[/caption] Vice Ganda stole the spotlight in a showstopping hyper glam look, featuring a crystal-encrusted gown by Neric Beltran, complemented by a white feather boa and vavavoom blonde hair. [caption id="attachment_163202" align="aligncenter" width="1831"] Vice Ganda | PHOTOGRAPHS BY SONNY ESPIRITUFOR THE DAILY TRIBUNE[/caption] Vice Ganda stole the spotlight in a show stopping hyper glam look, featuring a crystal-encrusted gown by Neric Beltran, complemented by a white feather boa and vavavoom blonde hair. Rhian Ramos embodied subtle sexiness in her black tube gown with asymmetrical details, strategic cut-outs, and a see-through corset bodice. [caption id="attachment_163219" align="aligncenter" width="1770"] Rhian Ramos[/caption] Michelle Dee, our current Miss Universe, shone in a Mark Bumgarner creation with a dramatic figure-hugging skirt and beaded accents. [caption id="attachment_163220" align="aligncenter" width="1608"] Michelle Dee | PHOTOGRAPH BY SONNY ESPIRITU FOR THE DAILY TRIBUNE[/caption] Julie Anne San Jose was a true princess in Mak Tumang’s fanciful muted lavender gown, where dreams turned into reality, and elegance sparkled with an ethereal brilliance. [caption id="attachment_163221" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Julie Anne San Jose[/caption] Kyline Alcantara stood out in fashion thanks to her bold Jacquemus gown with its mermaid silhouette, peplum waist, and sweetheart neckline. [caption id="attachment_163199" align="aligncenter" width="779"] Kyline Alcantara[/caption] Now, the question remains: Which GMA Gala 2023 look was your favorite? The post GMA GALA 2023: TOP STUNNERS appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Malnutrition, hunger shade Phl growth
The Asian Development Bank’s outlook for the Philippines remains unchanged since April, maintaining that the country’s economy would expand by 6.0 percent for the remainder of the year and grow by 6.2 percent in 2024. In April, Kelly Bird, ADB country director for the Philippines, noted that the economy was in expansion mode after the gross domestic product grew 7.6 percent throughout 2022. “It (Philippine economic growth) is expected to moderate this year (2023) from the previous year’s forecast-beating outturn, but will remain on a healthy expansion mode underpinned by rising domestic demand and a recovery in services, particularly tourism,” he said. In the latest update of its quarterly Asian Development Outlook 2023 report, the ADB said domestic demand and services continue to drive growth in Southeast Asia, with many economies in the region, including the Philippines’, benefiting from strong tourism recovery. It said robust investment and private consumption, along with rising employment, growth in production and retail sales, and upbeat activity in private and public construction, is propelling the Philippine economy forward, making the country a strong candidate for the fastest-growing economy in the region in 2023, even surpassing Singapore’s and Vietnam’s. Filipinos look forward to ADB’s forecast that growth will remain strong, albeit slowed by global headwinds, high inflation, and tighter monetary policy. GDP growth should pick up even more as the external environment improves. Hopes are pinned on private consumption and investment to continue to expand, though easing from 2022’s brisk pace while household spending will be buoyed by rising employment and steady remittances from Philippine workers overseas. The bank’s outlook on the Philippine economy should get President Marcos into a pumped-up mood as he gets ready to address the country in his 2nd State of the Nation address on Monday. But ADB’s sobering notes on hunger and malnutrition threaten to dim whatever bright disposition he may have at the moment. In its report, the ADB notes that despite rapid economic growth in recent years, these “impressive gains” along with whatever efforts to reduce poverty have not lowered hunger, particularly among people in lower income levels. The ADB cites data from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization indicating the prevalence of food insecurity in the Philippines, averaging 43.8 percent of the total population from 2019 to 2021 with 5.2 percent of the people undernourished. An Expanded National Nutrition Survey in 2021 revealed that under-nutrition rates were “very high,” with 26.7 percent of children under five years old stunted. Among school-age children (5-10 years old), the stunting rate was 19.7 percent and much higher among the poorest quintile at 32.7 percent. Alarming figures indicate that chronic malnutrition and stunting are strongly linked to disease and premature death; they adversely affect crucial stages of development (of children), causing cognitive and behavioral deficits, learning disabilities and ultimately a sub-optimal and uncompetitive labor force. The government’s response, the ADB observed, was short-term measures providing social support to vulnerable groups and temporarily easing import restrictions on some agricultural products. And this note should be of particular concern to the President, who remains unmoved by calls to designate a full-time, hands-on expert thoroughly steeped in agriculture at the agency. These data are also alarming: Agriculture growth in the Philippines has underperformed for the past two decades; it grew 3.5 percent on average annually from 2000 to 2010, then by 1.5 percent from 2011 to 2022; Agriculture’s share of GDP has declined from over 15 percent in early 2000 to an average of 9 percent in the past five years, with one-fifth of employment remaining in agriculture; and today’s Philippine agriculture labor productivity continues to lag behind its peers in the Southeast region. The ADB recommended that government strengthens food security and nutrition through social protection responses. Data on poverty incidence showed it declined from 23.5 percent of the population in 2015 to 16.7 percent in 2018 but rose again to 18.1 percent in 2021 because of the pandemic. As the President prepares to take on another year in office, we hope that the President is aware of the urgencies that need to be effectively tackled in the sector he insists on overseeing and of the sociopolitical costs and the not-so-flattering image the country — and the world — would have of his leadership if he leaves these issues substantially unresolved. The post Malnutrition, hunger shade Phl growth appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Janella Salvador stars with Thai actor Win Metawin in new movie
Filipina actress Janella Salvador and Thai Actor Win Metawin are joining forces for the upcoming film Under Parallel Skies. In an announcement video posted by production company 28 Squared Studios on 18 July, Salvador and Win confirmed details about their collaboration. “We are so excited to announce to you guys that we will be teaming up for the upcoming movie Under Parallel Skies,” Win said in the announcement video. The production company also released sneak peek photos of Salvador and Win while filming. More details about the movie and its premiere date are yet to be announced. The film, to be shot in Hong Kong, will be directed by Sigrid Bernardo, the director of the 2017 romantic-comedy Kita Kita, the highest-grossing Philippine indie film. Salvador, an award-winning Filipina actress-singer, debuted in the hit morning drama Be Careful with My Heart (2012-2014), eventually bagging lead roles in Oh My G! (2015), Born for You (2016) and The Killer Bride (2019 - 2020). She further cemented her place in the Philippine entertainment scene when she played the supervillain Valentina in ABS-CBN’s latest production of “Mars Ravelo’s Darna.” Meanwhile, Win Metawin rose to fame in 2020 with his acting debut 2gether: The Series alongside Bright Vachirawit. He then joined the main cast of F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers. The Thai star has also made a mark in the fashion industry. He has deals with multiple lifestyle brands and has graced numerous prestigious fashion magazines. He was also appointed Prada’s global brand ambassador. Win has met his Pinoy fans. In November 2022, the actor came to the Philippines for the first time with the cast of F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers for a fan meet. Last June, Metawin returned for a solo fan meet at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City. The post Janella Salvador stars with Thai actor Win Metawin in new movie appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mott 32 Hong Kong gets a facelift
Mott 32 Hong Kong’s first facelift, nine years since its launch, introduces new design elements that harmonize with the city’s evolving taste and strengthen the relationship between Maximal Concepts and the original award-winning interior designer, Joyce Wang Studio. The refreshed main dining area and bar exude elegance. In contrast, five enhanced private dining rooms offer distinct themes and narratives, showcasing a blend of Chinese authenticity and Western flair, the signature of Mott 32. Xuan Mu, co-founder and group managing director at Maximal Concepts, said: “The new elements at Mott 32 Hong Kong showcase our commitment to the original location after a demanding few years. Our design ethos of blending a lofty New York industrial style with Hong Kong luxury remains the same and continues to be seen across our new openings worldwide. As a destination for locals to bring their guests or business partners to enjoy a unique, contemporary-style Chinese meal, we owe it to our customers to ensure the restaurant evolves with the times and continues to deliver innovative yet mesmerizing experiences, from ambiance to flavor.” The signature staircase, which used to be a storage unit for wealthy Chinese families, leads to the main dining room, adorned with antique chandeliers, new lanterns, and unique seating experiences, creating intimate moments. The upgraded bar features new latticework and a stone veneer to brighten the space — the perfect spot for innovative cocktails and catch-ups. The five private and semi-private dining rooms offer intimate gatherings, each with a different theme and narrative, such as the Calligraphy room decorated with over 2,000 wall-mounted Chinese calligraphy brushes and bright orange hues as a celebration of the ancient Chinese art form. “As the design of Mott 32 has grown and evolved across the various new restaurants in Vancouver, Las Vegas, Singapore, Cebu and most recently Dubai, it was a great opportunity to revisit the original Mott 32 design and reinject another layer through bold colors and materials, such as stone veneer, embroidered fabric lanterns, more hand-painted wallcoverings and cane weavings,” stated Joyce Wang Studio Mott 32 is the first luxury Chinese brand created in Hong Kong that has expanded to seven international locations, including Bangkok, Cebu, Dubai, Las Vegas, Seoul, Singapore and Vancouver. Each space has been carefully selected to be a part of monumental and iconic buildings demonstrating its commitment to heritage and prestige. As the mastermind behind Mott 32 Hong Kong›s design, Joyce Wang personally composed the interiors for five of Mott 32›s international locations — Cebu, Dubai, Las Vegas, Singapore and Vancouver. Blending the luxury, style, and splendor of a modern Chinese city with local elements and design nuances unique to each destination is what Mott 32 is becoming renowned for. Mott 32 has partnered with independent designers in all locations to weave the essence of the destination›s history with Chinese culture into each space. The post Mott 32 Hong Kong gets a facelift appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The Hatch Project – AI in action (2)
If KadaKareer, the first place winner of the Rotary Club of Makati’s digitally inspired Hatch Project, focuses on the aspirations of the low-income segment of our youth to land meaningful employment though they are handicapped by limited resources and networks, and addresses the typical SMEs’ need for competent, reasonably valued, operating support, the second placer, Bangus PAFK: Bangus Pro-Active Fish Kill, seeks to address a perennial problem plaguing our aquaculture industry, fish kill. Fish kill or fish die-off is the sudden death of a large population of fish in a specific area of the marine environment such as a lake or a fish pen triggered by the deterioration of the quality of the water. We need not look too far for examples. Laguna de Bay’s steady deterioration over the decades of man-made pollution from industrial firms, extreme weather disturbances, and fish pen mismanagement have contributed to the degradation of the water quality in the lake arising from high water acidity levels, extreme water salinity, the concentration of ammonia, abrupt changes in water temperature and oxygen depletion, a sure-fire formula for the fish kill. This sad state of affairs is unfortunately not limited to Laguna Lake. This is happening as well in other aquaculture-dependent communities such as Pangasinan, where the project was initiated, and where the aquaculture industry is a major driver of the province’s economy. A few instances. In Bolinao, P22M worth of bangus was wiped out in a fish kill rampage in a matter of days in May 2020 after a heavy downpour. In Dagupan in 2019, thousands of fish, dead due to extreme heat. Just last January, in Lake Sebu in Cotabato, P10M worth of tilapia was spoiled due to improper aquaculture practices and weather disturbance-induced fish kill. Evidently, fish kill is a serious concern that needs to be addressed. Allow a non-techie, yours truly, to share my understanding of how PAFK works. Basically, it is an Internet of Things or IoT-based initiative of students from the Pangasinan State University, conceived not only to alleviate the plight of the fish farming community of Dagupan whose livelihood has been affected by fish kill but also to contribute in no small way to the very important task of ensuring food supply. PAFK monitors in real time the water condition and can forecast the occurrence of a looming fish kill of bangus in fishponds. The application uses sensors installed on a floating platform in a fish pen to remotely monitor the levels of dissolved oxygen, acidity, salinity, and ammonia, and to measure the water temperature. These sensor readings are recorded and transmitted to the Arduino microcontroller. An Arduino is an open hardware development board that can be used by any tech-savvy hobbyist to design and build a device that interacts with the real world. In the case of PAFK, the device the students created has sensors attached to the mainboard which is programmed to wait for a signal from the connected sensors. The microcontroller collects the readings hourly and transmits the data via hypertext transfer protocol which in simple terms is an application that allows users to communicate data using the internet. The program has three detection levels similar to street crossing signals: Normal (green light) - no action is required; Warning (yellow light signaling caution)- triggers remotely the switching on or off of the mechanical aeration system through either a text or a missed call; and Critical (red, full stop) - immediate force harvesting or transferring of the fish to another fishpond. Once the Warning or Critical signals occur, an SMS notification is sent to the caretaker’s cellphone. The AI component of the system “decides” when to trigger signals, guided by a predetermined threshold based on minimum or maximum value parameters inputted by the user. AI also calculates the average mean using the frequency distribution method. All the results are online and after receiving and storing the readings on a remote database server, the web page refreshes hourly. Will it work commercially? I certainly hope and pray that it will. Congratulations to three very bright science students of Pangasinan State University – Haryll Caido, Dexter Javelosa, and Jonathan Quiles, and their mentor, Elmer Noche. Until next week… OBF! For comments, email bing_matoto@yahoo.com The post The Hatch Project – AI in action (2) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Students showcase pieces at Makati’s Art in the Park
Ever since the year 2006, Art in the Park continues to strike awe and wonderment into the hearts of the continuously expanding, more appreciative Philippine arts and culture community. After all, the annual event gathers sterling galleries with artists of note as well as budding art spaces and independent collectives together all in one fun-filled eye-opening affair. It keeps its mission of making visual arts accessible in two ways. The event finds home at the laidback, newly-enhanced Jaime Velasquez Park in Salcedo Village, Makati City, a welcome reprieve right at the heart of the desired residential area, and the price range ranges from P70,000 and way below, for new collectors or to serve as ideal gifts for those who have everything. [caption id="attachment_130031" align="aligncenter" width="328"] 'Folded but Hanging on by the Finger Tip (121.92 by 91.44 cm, acrylic on canvas, 2022)' by Astrud Moscoso, which is described as 'a sense of atypical wonder that is a moving curiosity on playful insights. Connecting the dots just by exploring unintentionally, that harnesses the power of observation. The free will of being transformative with bold new perspectives.'[/caption] [caption id="attachment_130030" align="aligncenter" width="297"] 'Amara Averion’s Impulse 1 (30.48 by 45.72 cm, acrylic on canvas, 2023),' which is part of a series called Impulse. The works are made out of spite and out of fun. These dancing blobs are free, loud and colorful.[/caption] Amongst the camaraderie and chaos of the first physical show since 2019, art enthusiasts and the curious once again drowned at the excellent selections of paintings, sculptures, mixed-media works, drawings, prints, photographs, potteries, pieces of furniture, zines and stickers. With no more wall space available due to the art pieces I have collected and have been gifted over the years, I found myself under the lush fire trees that abound in the green patch to observe what’s new and what moves buyers in the year 2023. Joining this year’s edition was — surprise, surprise — another familiar name — the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, which I soon learned was on their second participation. [caption id="attachment_130033" align="aligncenter" width="304"] '27-Minute Drawing: Tipsy at a Gallery (15 x 10 cm, mixed media on paper, 2023)' by Aevan Georgeline de Jesus, who explained, 'From February through March 2023, I timed myself drawing for 27 minutes 27 times.'[/caption] “The open call for artworks was offered to students, faculty and alumni,” shared Arts Management Program professor and supervising faculty member Thea Garing. A pavilion was set up at the campus to receive entries, complete with certificates of authenticity, ready for the possible purchase of the obras. With an initial plan to limit the submissions to only 120 works, it was eventually expanded to 215 due to the overwhelming turnout. The displays at the Benilde Booth had to be rotated throughout the day, with 50 to 60 on view at a time. First-time participant Carlo Miguel Cuvin shared his feelings: “I was really excited but also nervous for this is my initial art-related event outside of the college. Seeing my craft at the booth, together with the works of my colleagues, made more intense by other groups of artists, really motivated me. It was surreal.” Along with Garing, the collaboration was made possible with the guidance of Alain Zedrick Camiling, Arts Management Program chair. They were also aided by Maria Magdalena C. de Leon, Benilde School of Arts, Culture and Performance dean, as well as the chairpersons from the other programs. [caption id="attachment_130038" align="aligncenter" width="409"] 'Pilìng-pilì, 1 of 2 (70 by 70 cm, charmeuse satin, 2022)' by 3ña, a dissection of a puso ng saging printed on fabric.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_130034" align="aligncenter" width="375"] 'The Pond (20.32 cm, acrylic, resin, clay, 2022)' by Jen Mandia. I spy with my little eye. A school of fish much bigger than I. A magical pond, I chart my course. Atop my boat, I row my oars.[/caption] The Art in the Park fete is untiringly and unfailingly organized by Philippine Art Events Inc. for the benefit of the Museum Foundation of the Philippines. This event comes after the success of Art Fair Philippines 2023, led by its founders, Dindin Araneta, Trickie Lopa and Lisa Ongpin-Periquet. The response was heartwarming and fulfilling, as we have reconfirmed our inclusion in the roster of art fairs in open spaces together with the other capital cities of the world. Let the artworks do the talking. [caption id="attachment_130035" align="aligncenter" width="296"] 'In Motion: Zephyr (15.24 by 11.43 cm, acrylic, 2021)' by chucolatte. The small collection of abstract artworks uses color and brushstrokes to create moving narratives.[/caption] The post Students showcase pieces at Makati’s Art in the Park appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PPRD sa APEC leaders: “Bold and collaborative response” para magapi ang COVID isulong
Manila, Philippines – Tinawagan ng pansin at hinikayat ni Pangulong Rodrigo Roa Duterte ang kanyang kapwa Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders na isulong ang “bold and collaborative” responses para magapi o matalo ang coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) at pabilisin ang global economic recovery. Ang panawagang ito ni Pangulong Duterte ay bilang pagpapahayag na hindi pa […] The post PPRD sa APEC leaders: “Bold and collaborative response” para magapi ang COVID isulong appeared first on REMATE ONLINE......»»
Folayang: Denice has what it takes to be world champ
Former ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard “Landslide” Folayang sees a bright future for unbeaten Filipina strawweight Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga, who has taken ONE Championship by storm since her debut in 2019. .....»»
2020 king of recruiting crown remains on UP’s head
Who was our King of Recruiting in 2018? Find out here. Who was our King of Recruiting in 2019? Find out here. --- From 2007 to 2015, the University of the Philippines only had 13 wins to show in 126 games total. That time is self-deprecatingly called in Diliman as the dark days. Due to that disappointing standing, the Fighting Maroons had the toughest time bringing in recruits. And due to that lack of pieces to the puzzles, they lost even more. Safe to say, State U was stuck in a vicious cycle in the dark days. That’s not to say they didn’t have blue-chip recruits back then as in their time, all of Woody Co, Mark Juruena, Mike Gamboa, Kyles Lao, Jett Manuel, and Mikee Reyes were among the best high school players. Only, a blue-chip recruit or two does not make a team. Fast forward to now and oh, how things have changed. Last year, UP was hailed as ABS-CBN’s King of Recruiting alongside University of the East. “On the strength of the transfers of Kobe Paras and Ricci Rivero, the Fighting Maroons… are worthy of the title,” it said then. And the season before that, the maroon and green was also up there with the best of them in terms of recruitment, having brought in the likes of eventual Season MVP Bright Akhuetie, Will Gozum, and Jaydee Tungcab. Indeed, there was nowhere to go but up. That has only continued this year as UP has left no doubt that it is now a force to reckon with in terms of recruitment. Early on, they already had a solid haul in Joel Cagulangan, once the best point guard in high school, and tireless workhorse Malick Diouf. And then, the shock of shocks. As it turned out, Nazareth School of National University stalwarts Carl Tamayo and Gerry Abadiano were going to be Fighting Maroons. Meaning, for the first time in recent history, the most promising prospect coming out of high school is headed to Diliman. Not only that, State U also answered its biggest question heading into next season – the question at point guard, filling in for Jun Manzo. But as it turned out, they weren’t done just yet - no, our friends, they weren’t done just yet. Tamayo and Abadiano’s departure from National U was shocking, without a doubt, but CJ Cansino’s exit from University of Sto. Tomas was even more so. Cansino, against his will, decided to move on from his alma mater since 2015 due to personal reasons. Fortunately for him, he landed on his feet. Now, the Fighting Maroons have ready-made replacement for Rivero as well as a leader in the shades of Paul Desiderio for UAAP 84. And that, our friends, is why we have no choice but to put the 2020 King of Recruiting crown on UP’s head once more. Tamayo and Abadiano are the bluest of blue-chip recruits this year and Cagulangan, Cansino, and Diouf are among the most talented transferees, but also joining them in the maroon and green will be scoring machine RC Calimag from La Salle Green Hills, burly big Miguel Tan from Xavier High School, Filipino-American playmaker Sam Dowd, Filipino-Australian tower Ethan Kirkness, physical forward Jancork Cabahug from University of Visayas, and versatile wing CJ Catapusan from Adamson University. The former Bullpups are guaranteed ato be contributors even as rookies while Calimag, Tan, and Dowd are going to shore up a bench that had just lost Gomez de Liano brothers Javi and Juan. Of course, Diouf, Kirkness, Cansino, Cabahug, and Cagulangan are still serving residency, but when they will be eligible, they will get a shot at a squad that will look brand new. All of Bright Akhuetie, J-Boy Gob, David Murrell, Noah Webb, and Rivero are graduating players while Paras is only guaranteed to play one more year. That means that after Season 83, the Fighting Maroons may very well have to fill six spots. That means that UP is not only beefing up for UAAP 83, it is also securing its future. If not for the shock of shocks, though, the crown would have been claimed by De La Salle University which sent a statement that it is back and better than ever. Justine Baltazar and Aljun Melecio may be playing their fifth and final years in college, but the green and white’s future has only brightened following this prolonged preseason. First and foremost, Kevin Quiambao, the third leg in that National U tripod of talent out of high school, has the capability and confidence to follow in the footsteps of Baltazar. Hopefully, he will be eligible for Season 83, but if not, what’s certain is he will be playing in UAAP 84. Alongside him as pieces for the future are super scorers CJ Austria and Emman Galman, all-around swingman Joshua Ramirez, and Filipino-Americans Jeromy Hughes, Kameron Vales, and Philips bros. Benjamin and Michael. Among all those, Jonnel Policarpio, likened to a young Arwind Santos, has the highest upside, but the Fil-Ams have much potential as well. And don’t forget that Evan Nelle, the primetime playmaker from San Beda University, is just getting primed and prepped to take the reins when Melecio leaves. Of course, the caveat here is that we are all in uncharted territory due to the continuing COVID-19 crisis. And in that light, the next season of the UAAP remains far away and a lot could still happen until then. While majority of the local blue-chip recruits have already committed, talents from abroad and transferees from other schools could still come and change the game. With that being said, there remains no doubt that UP and La Salle have made the biggest noise in the offseason. However, it’s not actually the Fighting Maroons or the Green Archers who got the lion’s share of the best graduating players in the 2020 NBTC 24. Yes, that honor belongs to Lyceum of the Philippines University which is finally reaping the rewards of its rising Jrs. program with NCAA 95 Jrs. MVP John Barba and Batang Gilas playmaker Mac Guadana being promoted as full-fledged Pirates. Guadana could do it all and looks like the next great guard in the Grand Old League while fearless slasher is Barba is a perfect complement to him. Add another fiery guard in John Bravo and sweet-shooting big man Carlo Abadeza and LPU has restocked its coffers after losing Marcelino twins Jaycee and Jayvee and Cameroonian powerhouse Mike Nzeusseu. In all though, the 2020 NBTC 24 was dominated by UP… and San Beda. Of the annual rankings’ 15 graduating players, four would be Fighting Maroons and another four would be Red Lions. Yes, San Beda’s grassroots program is back on track with its Jrs. championship core all remaining in red and white. Rhayyan Amsali, ranked no. 1 in the 2020 NBTC 24, is the most college-ready high school player while Justine Sanchez is a long-limbed forward who could turn out to be the next Calvin Oftana, you know, the NCAA 95 MVP. Yukien Andrada, meanwhile, is only continuing to develop his two-way game and Tony Ynot is a 3-and-D weapon who had even left an impression on Jalen Green. And hey, as somebody said, don’t sleep on the UAAP’s three-time defending champions. Ateneo may already be missing Isaac Go, Thirdy Ravena, Adrian Wong, and Nieto twins Mike and Matt and they may not be making noise as of late, but they are still welcoming Dave Ildefonso and Dwight Ramos with open arms. Ildefonso will only be good to go come UAAP 84, but Ramos is already being seen by head coach Tab Baldwin as a difference-maker for the Blue Eagles in Season 83. Eli, Dwight’s younger brother, is also in the mix to backstop SJ Belangel and Tyler Tio. Note also that former blue-chip recruit Inand Fornilos may very well finally get his shot while both Jolo Mendoza and Raffy Verano are also back. Ateneo’s foe in the Finals last year also reloaded quite a bit as for the third year in a row, UST will be sending the Tiger Cubs’ best player to the Srs. squad. Following in the footsteps of Cansino and Mark Nonoy, post player Bismarck Lina will be a Growling Tiger next season. Alongside him to fortify the frontcourt are Christian Manaytay, Bryan Samudio, and Bryan Santos while bolstering the backcourt are Joshua Fontanilla and Paul Manalang. Speaking of fortifying the frontcourt, Far Eastern University is the team that got the biggest boost in terms of size. With 6-foot-7 Nigerian Emman Ojoula’s residency over and done with, the go-go guards of the Tamaraws have yet another weapon to burn opponents with. CESAFI MVP Kevin Guibao and transferee Simone Sandagon are no slouches either while Cholo Anonuevo has a roster spot waiting for him if and when he decides to come home after trying his luck in the US. RJ Abarrientos no longer appears here as he was already in FEU’s list last year. These are the new faces to see for the other teams: CSB Blazers LETRAN Knights JRU Heavy Bombers MAPUA Cardinals ADAMSON Soaring Falcons UE Red Warriors --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @riegogogo......»»
Morikawa quickly goes from college grad to major champion
By DOUG FERGUSON AP Golf Writer SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Collin Morikawa couldn't help but break into a smile, and not just because the shiny Wanamaker Trophy he won at Harding Park was positioned on a stand next to him. Just over 14 months ago, Morikawa went through commencement after his All-American career — on the golf course and in the classroom — across the Bay Bridge and up the road at Cal-Berkeley. Since then, he has played 28 tournaments around the world and already has three victories on the PGA Tour, one of them a major championship. In the last 50 years, only four other players won their first major before age 23 or younger — Jordan Spieth, Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods and Seve Ballesteros. He already is No. 5 in the world. That alone puts him among the elite, except that Morikawa didn't need to win the PGA Championship to feel that way. “When I woke up today, I was like, ‘This is meant to be.’ This is where I feel very comfortable,” Morikawa said. “This is where I want to be, and I'm not scared from it. I think if I was scared from it, the last few holes would have been a little different. But you want to be in this position.” Harding Park was not a place for the meek. Rare is Sunday at a major with so many possibilities at the beginning, at the turn and down the stretch. The drama was relentless. Nine players at one point could claim a share of the lead. There was Dustin Johnson, who started with a one-shot lead. The power of Tony Finau, Bryson DeChambeau and Cameron Champ was on full display. Jason Day brought the experience of winning majors and being No. 1 in the world. Morikawa embraced the moment and delivered the signature shot that allowed him to win a thriller. Actually, there were two moments. After catching a good break — even the most tested major champions need those — with a tee shot off a tree and into play on the 14th, he was short of the green and chipped in for birdie to take the lead. Two holes later, Paul Casey tied him with a nifty up-and-down for birdie on the 16th, where the tees were moved forward to 294 yards to entice players to go for the green. Morikawa thought back to the 14th hole at Muirfield Village during the Workday Charity Open, where he fearlessly hit driver in a similar situation — big trouble left, water right — and drilled it to 12 feet. His shot was the signature moment of this major, a driver that bounced just right and onto the green and rolled up to 7 feet below the cup. He made the eagle putt and was on his way to a two-shot victory with a 6-under 64, matching the lowest final round by a PGA champion. There were no spectators because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Casey must have felt like one. He was still on the 17th tee when he looked back and saw Morikawa's shot. “Nothing you can do but tip your cap to that,” Casey said. “Collin has taken on that challenge and pulled it off. That's what champions do.” He won at Muirfield Village last month not from that bold play on the 14th hole, but after Justin Thomas made a 50-foot birdie putt in the playoff. Morikawa answered with a 25-foot birdie of his own and won two holes later. He is comfortable in the most uncomfortable situations. It was Thomas who gave Morikawa more confidence than he needed. They got together for dinner at the Canadian Open last summer, Morikawa's first start since graduating from Cal. Thomas told him he was good enough, he would make it. Thomas knew from experience. He spent a year in the minor leagues before getting his PGA Tour card, went through a year of learning without winning and now has 13 wins, a major and twice has been No. 1 in the world. Morikawa didn't wait that long. He won the Barracuda Championship to earn a PGA Tour card. He won against a strong field for validation. Now he's a major champion. Young stars are emerging every year, and it was easy to overlook Morikawa. He was a runner-up two years in a row for the Hogan Award, given to the nation's best college player. Doug Ghim won in 2018, Matthew Wolff a year later. And it was Wolff who denied Morikawa a victory last year in Minnesota by making a long eagle putt on the last hole. Players know best. “There’s always a bunch of guys that rock up on the scene, and he didn’t necessarily get the most publicity out of the group he was in,” Casey said. “I know talent when I see it. I don't like the term ‘talent,’ but you know when somebody is good. And Collin was good. We could just tell. ... And we weren't wrong.” Morikawa grew up in Southern California with Wolff. He considers the Bay Area a second home from his time at Cal and the dozen times the Golden Bears played or had qualifiers at Harding Park, a public course that never was this tough. In just over a year — it feels less than that because of the three months golf was shut down because of the pandemic — he has emerged as a star without ever being surprised. He thought back to his debut 14 months ago and recalled being comfortable then. He tied for 14th. “There's a different sense of comfort now,” Morikawa said. Another big smile. A bright future......»»
DILG: NCR ECQ proposal to be discussed in meeting
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Sunday assured that calls for Metro Manila to be reverted back to the stricter enhanced community quarantine will be tackled during the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) meeting on Aug. 3. DILG Undersecretary and spokesperson Jonathan Malaya issued the clarification after some medical workers requested that the National Capital Region (NCR) be under the more restricted quarantine rules due to the surging coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) cases. DILG Undersecretary and spokesperson Jonathan Malaya (PCOO / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN) On Aug. 1, Philippine Medical Association (PMA) president Dr. Jose Santiago in an online press conference headed by the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) noted that the health workers are overwhelmed by the upsurge of COVID-19 cases they are handling. He relayed that the concerned health workers had urged the government to give them at least two weeks of “breathing space by shifting Mega Manila back to a strict lockdown.’’ “We’re waging a losing battle against COVID-19 and we need to draw up a consolidated, definitive plan of action,” the letter read by Santiago said. With President Duterte on the brink of placing Metro Manila under the modified general communits quarantine (MGCQ) in middle of July, DILG Secretary Eduardo Año and the other Cabinet members convinced the President that the move is not feasible citing the need to open businesses to reinvigorate the economy. Año insisted that the way to curb the spread of the disease starts in every individual who should follow the minimum health standards of wearing masks, observing physical distancing, and practicing proper hygiene. He emphasized that no country can claim they have won their fight against COVID-19 since there is no available vaccine for the virus yet. But on the bright note, Duterte in a meeting on Friday said that the COVID-19 vaccine will be available in the country this December. Año noted that the country has to live with the virus momentarily until the vaccine is found. He added that the local government units (LGUs) have the power to impose localized lockdowns on parts of the barangays, streets, and buildings which they have identified as high-risk areas......»»