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PMPI joins Church and CSOs in Samar, calls for a Stop of Mining in all Samar Islands
A Stop to Mining call reverberated in Guiuan, Eastern Samar on January 20, 2024, with thousands of people from different parts of Samar and Leyte converging at the Immaculate Concepcion Church in Guiuan to express their sentiments against the destructive activities of mining on the island of Samar.Spearheaded by the three (3) Dioceses of Samar, together with the support of the Philippine Misereor Partnership and.....»»
Editorial: Be vigilant on campaign period do s and don ts
As the campaign period for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections begins, candidates and voters alike should be aware of the rules and regulations governing the campaign period. campaign tarpaulins and paraphernalia should not exceed the size limit of 2x3 feet, and campaign materials should not be obscene, discriminatory, or offensive. Furthermore, fundraising activities such as dances, lotteries, and cockfights are prohibited, as is vote-buying and vote-selling. Finally, donations and gifts in cash or in kind are also prohibited......»»
Jerusalem’s holy sites deserted on second Friday of war
Fatima lives a few kilometers from Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa mosque but had to cross four checkpoints to get there for Friday prayers with the esplanade largely deserted since war erupted between Israel and Hamas. Normally packed for Friday prayers, there were only a few thousand worshippers present at the compound in the Old City of Jerusalem, which is the third holiest site in Islam but is also the most sacred place for Jews. The compound has been largely deserted since October 7 when Hamas militants from Gaza stormed across the border beginning an attack that has killed at least 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians who were shot, mutilated or burnt to death on the first day, Israeli officials say. Israel has struck back at Gaza with a relentless bombing campaign which has killed more than 4,100 Palestinians, mainly civilians, according to the enclave's Hamas-run health ministry. "Since it started, I haven't been back to the Old City nor to Al-Aqsa," says Fatima, a 37-year-old Palestinian who, like many others, did not want to give her family name for fear of reprisals as war rages between Israel and Hamas. Large numbers of Israeli security forces could be seen checking ID papers and turning away men under 50 from the Old City esplanade which is located in east Jerusalem, a majority Palestinian area seized by Israel during the 1967 Six Day War and later annexed in a move never recognized by the international community. Unable to reach the compound, hundreds could be seen praying on the pavements, while elsewhere, Israeli police fired skunk water and tear gas to disperse others who were trying to enter the Old City, AFP correspondents said. Elsewhere in the Old City, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was deserted, with a lone Greek Orthodox priest praying alone at the normally crowded site where Christians believe Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. And at the Western Wall, the holiest place where Jews can pray, the vast esplanade which is normally packed in the hours before the Jewish sabbath begins at sundown, is also empty. It was early on a sabbath morning two weeks ago that Palestinian militants began their bloody attack, the most deadly ever to hit the Jewish state since it was founded in 1948. In the Muslim Quarter, most shops were shuttered, with Hassan Omar, 72, one of the only shopkeepers to open up, laying out prayer rugs and embroidered children's dresses alongside colorful scarves. "Since the war started, things have been very difficult. I come every day and pray, I go to Al-Aqsa then see if there any customers and if there aren't, I leave," he told AFP, expressing sorrow for the deaths of all civilians on both sides. "It's like during Covid, there's no-one." For Old City traders who depend on tourism, the war has spelt financial ruin, says fellow shopkeeper Mohammed Natsheh. "The whole economy has collapsed." The post Jerusalem’s holy sites deserted on second Friday of war appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Valenzuela lights ‘Tree of Hope’
Celebrities graced Valenzuela City’s “Tree of Hope” lighting ceremony over the weekend which also marked the beginning of a three-month-long celebration of the 400th Founding Anniversary of the city. The occasion was held at the Valenzuela City People’s Park with no less than popular Yuletide singer Jose Mari Chan, Patrick Quiroz and Itchyworms spicing up the rites that set the Christmas spirit of the Valenzuelanos. The “Tree of Hope” lighting ceremony is a yearly tradition focusing on a 50-foot tree, along with several decors and installations. It has been long-running since 2004. 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, as a herald to 400 years of history and progress. Mayor WES Gatchalian were joined by SM Supermalls president Steven Tan and CDO Foodsphere Inc. assistant vice president Jason Ong in lighting up the “Tree of Hope” this year. Dedicating the Tree of Hope, the city also welcomed PWD children and teens as the primary beneficiaries for this year. Likewise, students from the city’s state universities the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela and Valenzuela Technological College or VALTECH (formerly named ValPoly) also participated in the event. Mayor Gatchalian extended his warm greetings and emphasized the meaning of the “Tree of Hope.” “For our ‘Tree of Hope’ Lighting tonight, may this event not be a symbol of hope, but also serves as a reminder that the light that has guided over the past 400 years, will be the light that shall guide us in the future,” he said. Joining the event were Vice Mayor Lorie Natividad-Borja, Mayoress Tiffany Gatchalian, City Councilors Ricarr Enriquez, Gerald Galang, Niña Lopez, Sel Sabino-Sy, Mickey Pineda, Atty. Bimbo dela Cruz, Louie Nolasco, Marlon Alejandrino, SK Federation president, Councilor Goyong Serrano, and Liga ng mga Barangay president, Councilor Jonjon Bartolome. The PWD children and teens performed a meaningful doxology to start the event right. To further make this a night to remember, the local government invited the Christmas icon, Jose Mari Chan, to sing his signature song, “Christmas in Our Hearts” while setting the “Tree of Hope” and the fireworks alight. A colorful and dashing fountain display provided the finishing touches to the ceremonial night. Days after the event, multiple attractions in the city such as the Valenzuela City Family Park, WES Arena, Fatima Avenue, and Polo Family Park were also set to illuminate their Christmas installations. Meanwhile, some of the anticipated huge events for the upcoming months are as follows: 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. These activities in line were all open for the Pamilyang Valenzuelanos. The post Valenzuela lights ‘Tree of Hope’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Valenzuela kicks off 400th founding jubilee
The City of Valenzuela kicked off its three-month-long celebration of its 400th founding anniversary with a tree of hope lighting ceremony at the Valenzuela City People’s Park last 30 September 2023. The event was attended by Mayor Wes Gatchalian, special guests Jose Mari Chan, Patrick Quiroz, Itchyworms and hundreds of Valenzuelanos. The Tree of Hope lighting ceremony is a yearly tradition in the city, but this year it was especially significant as it marked the beginning of the 400th founding anniversary celebration. The tree of hope is decorated with lights and ornaments that symbolize the city’s history, culture, and progress. It is a reminder of the city’s resilience and its bright future. Gatchalian said that the 400th founding anniversary celebration is a time to reflect on the city’s past and to look forward to its future. “We are proud of our rich history and our many accomplishments. We are also excited to see what the future holds for Valenzuela,” said the mayor. The tree of hope lighting ceremony was just the beginning of a series of events that will be held throughout the city in celebration of its 400th founding anniversary. The day of the commemoration is 12 November following Pueblo de Polo’s founding date, 12 November 1623. Back-to-back celebration awaits the city with Polo Fiesta and Casa de Polo inauguration as two of the grand slated events at #Valenzuela400 this month. Meanwhile, some of the anticipated huge events for the upcoming months are as follows: 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. These activities in line were all open for the Pamilyang Valenzuelanos. The post Valenzuela kicks off 400th founding jubilee appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Valenzuela city lights ‘Tree of Hope’, celebrates 400th founding anniversary
Welcoming two momentous events in one, the City of Valenzuela commenced the “Tree of Hope” lighting ceremony at the Valenzuela City People’s Park over the weekend and was graced by special guests: Jose Mari Chan, Patrick Quiroz, and Itchyworms. Alongside, the ceremony also marked the beginning of a three-month-long celebration of the 400th Founding Anniversary of the city. The “Tree of Hope” lighting ceremony is a yearly tradition of the city, setting the Christmas spirit early for the Valenzuelanos. This traditional lighting of the 50-foot tree, along with several decors and installations, has been long-running since 2004. 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, as a herald to 400 years of history and progress. Mayor WES Gatchalian were joined by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan and CDO Foodsphere Inc. Assistant Vice President Jason Ong in lighting up the Tree of Hope this year. Dedicating the Tree of Hope, the city also welcomed PWD children and teens as the primary beneficiaries for this year. Likewise, students from the city’s state universities the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela and Valenzuela Technological College or VALTECH (formerly named ValPoly) also partake in the event. The historical evening occurred at the heart of the city, the Valenzuela City People’s Park, where many of its residents gathered to witness the gleaming lights from the display. Mayor Gatchalian extended his warm greetings and emphasized the meaning of the Tree of Hope. “Sa ating ‘Tree of Hope’ Lighting ngayong gabi, nawa ito ay hindi lamang maging simbolo ng pag-asa, kung hindi rin magsilbing paalala, na ang liwanag na gumabay sa ating sa nakalipas na apat na raang (400) taon, ay siya ring liwanag na gagabay sa ating hinaharap (For our ‘Tree of Hope’ Lighting tonight, may this event not be a symbol of hope, but also serve as a reminder that the light that has guided over the past 400 years, will be the light that shall guide us in the future)." Joining the event were Vice Mayor Lorie Natividad-Borja, Mayoress Tiffany Gatchalian, City Councilors Ricarr Enriquez, Gerald Galang, Niña Lopez, Sel Sabino-Sy, Mickey Pineda, Atty. Bimbo Dela Cruz, Louie Nolasco, Marlon Alejandrino, SK Federation President, Councilor Goyong Serrano, and Liga ng mga Barangay President, Councilor Jonjon Bartolome. The PWD children and teens performed a meaningful doxology to start the event right. To further make this a night to remember, the local government invited the Christmas icon, Jose Mari Chan, to sing his signature song, “Christmas in Our Hearts” while setting the Tree of Hope and the fireworks alight. A colorful and dashing fountain display provided the finishing touches to the ceremonial night. Following days after the event, multiple attractions in the city such as Valenzuela City Family Park, WES Arena, Fatima Avenue, and Polo Family Park were also set to illuminate their Christmas installations. A post-lighting concert took place at the Valenzuela City Amphitheater wherein special guests, Patrick Quiroz and the band, The Itchyworms, livened up the stadium. Valenzuelanos jammed with some of their iconic songs, concluding the monumental night on a strong note. Getting the ball rolling, the tree-lighting occasion is one of the city’s main festivities for its 400th founding anniversary tribute. The day of the commemoration is 12 November, following Pueblo de Polo’s founding date, 12 November 1623. Back-to-back celebration awaits the city with Polo Fiesta and Casa de Polo inauguration as two of the grand slated events at Valenzuela400 this month. Meanwhile, some of the anticipated huge events for the upcoming months are as follows: 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. These activities in line were all open for the Pamilyang Valenzuelanos. For the past 400 years, the City of Valenzuela sought several developments and innovations — and it has never stopped evolving. From an agricultural provincial town of Polo to a highly urbanized, industrial, and liveable city, this notable transition led Valenzuela to be recognized as one of the progressive cities in the country. The post Valenzuela city lights ‘Tree of Hope’, celebrates 400th founding anniversary 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......»»
Malaya warns vs. elaborate hoax, money scams by leftist group
The public should be vigilant against falling prey to “elaborate hoax and fraudulent money-making schemes” by the leftist groups, the National Security Council warned on Saturday. NSC Assistant-Director General, Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya, said that these fraud activities are carved out of manufactured claims against security agencies of the government. Malaya’s warning stemmed from the report of the Philippine National Police stating that two young women said to be involved in environmental campaigns around Manila Bay who were reported missing have surfaced in Bulacan. Malaya said Jhed Tamano and Jonila Castro reportedly surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 70th Infantry Battalion in Doña Remedios Trinidad town on September 12, contrary to the claims of the leftist groups the two were abducted by government security forces. “They had actually bolted their organization and sought the help of authorities for their safe return home,” he added. Malaya accused the leftist group of pooling financial resources from the people to make it appear that the government security forces are irrelevant. “Kumakalap po sila ng pera gaya nang sa GCash with the intent of using this to discredit and put government in a bad light. They want the international community to believe that this country is a failed state,” Malaya lamented. “The Karapatan-led offensive included a shameless fundraising drive to collect money from the public purportedly to help locate the two young girls. It turned out, however, that the two students bolted their underground organization and went under the care of a friend,” he added. Malaya then slammed the Karapatan’s massive disinformation campaign “Surface Jonila and Jed Network” saying, “These are made out of manufactured threads of storylines using the internet that even the media, the viewing public, and the government became victims of the elaborate deception.” Karapatan, a human rights organization, was one of the first to sound the alarm when the two anti-reclamation activists went missing. The NSC and PNP’s Cybercrime Group, through the help of the Department of Justice, have already started to build up a case against these scammers from the leftist groups. “We will certainly look into their possible legal liabilities in relation to the Revised Penal Code, anti-cybercrime law, and other special laws. We’re working now with the DoJ for the possible filing of charges against them,” Malaya said. Not an abduction Meanwhile, PCapt. Carlito Buco of the Bataan Provincial Police Office Tamano and Castro have already met their parents and currently staying in a safe house Citing the police’s final investigation report, Buco said Tamano and Castro were not “abducted” or cannot be declared “missing persons.” “The two young girls were staying at a Methodist church in Orion town as early as September 1 and had been planning to leave their organization,” he added. The post Malaya warns vs. elaborate hoax, money scams by leftist group appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
2015 Vatican decree on Mediatrix not binding!
The claims of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines and the Vatican that Pope Pius XII had officially decreed that the Mediatrix apparitions were of “no supernatural character or origin” is not exactly true. If it is proven not true, the Papal “decree” is not binding and the faithful are allowed not to follow the decree, based on Canon Law. The CBCP released Circular 23-04 dated 14 July 2023 — quoting the official Dicastery document Protocol 226/1949 — stating that “in 1951, the Dicastery, the Supreme Sacred Congregation of the Holy See, after due examination of the documents made available, declared the alleged apparitions in Lipa (of Our Lady Mediatrix of All Grace) to have no supernatural character or origin, a decision directly approved by Pope Pius XII.” There has been no document in the Acta Apostolicae Sedis, the official Vatican publication, that said that Pope Pius XII had indeed approved the decree. It was never formalized into an official “promulgation,” which is a requirement of Canon Law, to be binding. In other words, the Dicastery Decree is official, but not the Papal Decree. Protocol 226/1949, authored by the Dicastery, did not clarify that the Pope Pius XII Decree had not yet been official and binding in a formal promulgation. Then apostolic administrator Bishop Rufino Santos said, in his decree of 12 April 1951, that he was still awaiting the Vatican decision regarding Lipa, contradicting Protocol 226/1949 that said a decision had been made. I, therefore, challenge the CBCP and the current Dicastery to produce documentary evidence that there was indeed an existing official Papal Decree of Pope Pius XII in fulfillment of the Canon Law ruling. The decree of Pope Pius XII is important because it was the basis for the recent order of Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera to suppress Mediatrix activities in all churches in Lipa. “Vatican directs CBCP to cease 75th celebration of Lipa apparition” (CNN Philippines 28 July 2023). The CNN article reported that the Vatican reaffirmed its 1951 decree, precisely the questionable Pope Pius XII decree. Only the Pope has the authority to confirm and declare a Marian apparition. If the 1951 Pope Pius decree is now in question, so also are all the recent bans and suppressions of Mediatrix activities in Lipa. The added sentence reads, “The Confraternity of the Mediatrix of All Grace is a movement with dozens of chapters nationwide.” Confraternity members report that a Filipino priest very close to Pope Francis approached him to forward the sentiments of the Mediatrix devotees. He said the Pope simply passed the ball to the Dicastery. And since the Dicastery is vehemently anti-Mediatrix, it was a dead end, a failed attempt. Many Confraternity members were disappointed. The Confraternity has a nationwide presence, although its membership keeps moving dynamically forward and backward. There are chapters whose memberships are strong and keep growing, but there are some whose memberships have decreased. The dynamic chapters include Cebu, Iloilo, Guimaras, Kidapawan, Davao City, General Trias, and Jaro, to name a few. However, the Confraternity is different from the devotees. Confraternity members are essentially professionals, educated and articulate. They are well organized and subject to meetings and activities. The ordinary Mediatrix devotees are peasants, farmers, and fishermen, and are simply humble churchgoers, not so organized. But there are so many who have a strong faith and devotion to Mama Mary in their hearts. They do not even know the issues in the conflict. Their devotion is based on their hearts, not their minds. When the entire Philippine Church was held in submission by the Vatican under threat of excommunication or alienation, it was the laity that took up the cudgels, out of reach of the clutches of the Vatican and the CBCP. The Confraternity distributed hundreds of life-size Mediatrix statues nationwide. They laid the infrastructure for devotion to spread like wildfire to the sea of marginal devotees. It is estimated from Confraternity reports that Mediatrix devotees are broadly around four million nationwide. Herein lies the victory of the Virgin over the Vatican. Despite 70 long years of suppression and repression since the 1951 apparitions to this very day, Mediatrix devotion proliferates. The Vatican and the CBCP have succeeded in silencing Filipino nuns, priests, bishops, and cardinals but they are helpless against the true Marians among the masses. Even the suppressed Church prelates still believe in the silence of their hearts in the Mediatrix. Suppression has ironically strengthened the Filipino Marians. The Confraternity says it has devised a simple strategy. They will suffer and ignore the suppression without opposition, and discern the will of the Lord and Our Lady, and focus on divine messages, teachings, and pray, pray, pray, especially for the Pope, the Vatican and the CBCP. *** eastwindreplyctr@gmail.com The post 2015 Vatican decree on Mediatrix not binding! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DILG’s BIDA Program rolled out in Zamboanga del Sur
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos led the rollout of the "Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan" (BIDA) Program in Zamboanga del Sur on Thursday morning. The BIDA Program launch was one of the highlights of the 71st Araw ng Zamboanga del Sur celebration at the Mega Gymnasium Provincial Government Complex, Dao, Pagadian City, which Abalos attended as a guest of honor and speaker. In his message before an estimated crowd of 1,500 Zambosurians, the DILG chief highlighted the critical role of local government units (LGUs) and other sectors of society in addressing the drug menace through education, prevention, and rehabilitation to complement the relentless anti-drug operations of law enforcement agencies. “Ang importante habang nanghuhuli ang mga pulis, tayong mga nasa LGU—mga barangay captain, konsehal, mayor, gobernador, bokal—community groups, religious leaders, parents, whole-of-nation approach dapat. Bumaba tayo, tulungan natin ang pulis. It’s not only about supply reduction. But most importantly, it's about demand reduction,” Abalos said. Furthermore, the DILG secretary congratulated the province of Zamboanga del Sur on its 71st Charter Day celebration. He also commended the leadership of Governor Victor J. Yu, who focused his governance through HEARTS or Health, Education and Environment, Agriculture, Roads and Bridges, Tourism, and Security. Abalos ended his message by inspiring local officials to continue heed the call of President Marcos for unity. “Iisang bangka tayo. We are given this opportunity, let's make the most out of it. It's time to make a difference for our province, for our city, and most specially for our country. Wala nang sana ganito, sa ganyan sa Pilipinas, wala na. Panahon natin 'to gawin na natin ang tama at huwag tayong matakot. Magtulungan tayo," he said. Named as one of the best government initiatives in Asia by international award-giving body GovMedia Awards, the BIDA Program has already been rolled out to over 700 LGUs nationwide since it was officially launched in November last year, initiating several activities such as BIDA Fun Runs, Serbisyo Caravans, Zumba sessions, cycling events, workshops, and seminars. Meanwhile, DILG Undersecretary for Local Goverment Marlo Iringan, during the Laging Handa press briefing in Malacañang, said the BIDA Program has been going around the country, in line with the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s continued campaign against illegal drugs with a renewed focus on demand reduction through a whole-of-nation approach. "Iyong nangyaring bike fest sa Bulacan noong nakaraang Linggo ay isa lamang sa napakaraming mga event at activities na pinangunahan ng ating kagawaran, sa pangunguna ni Secretary Benhur Abalos patungkol doon sa flagship program ng ating pamahalaan na 'Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan'," he said. "Nailunsad po natin itong noong nakaraang taon, November actually, at napunta na po tayo sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas at nagkaroon ng bike fest, fun run. At hindi lang po iyon ‘no, napakarami nating mga ugnayan sa iba’t ibang sektor ng lipunan at sa iba’t ibang lebel ng pamahalaan nang sa ganoon ay makuha iyong kanilang suporta sa ating whole-of-nation/whole-of-government approach against illegal drugs," Iringan explained. "Nagawa na po natin sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas at iyan nga ang isa sa mga gagawin pa natin sa mga susunod na araw. Subalit katulad ng nabanggit ko, this is only one of the strategies to generate support against illegal drugs. Nakikipag-ugnayan din po kami halimbawa sa Philippine Basketball Association, sa mga sports association nang sa ganoon suportahan ng mga athletes, na siyang tinitingala/iniidolo ng karamihan sa mga kabataan ‘no, na suportahan itong laban natin sa illegal drugs. Nakikipag-ugnayan kami sa mga iba’t ibang malalaking kumpanya katulad ng SM nang sa ganoon ay magkaroon sila ng initiative or intervention for a drug-free workplace. At iyon na nga po, pati na sa lahat ng mga eskuwelahan, mga unibersidad at mga kolehiyo ay hinihikayat din sila na tumulong ‘no sa laban sa iligal na droga," he added. DILG and Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan partner on BIDA The DILG's BIDA Program has also gained anti-illegal drug advocates among the youth of Cagayan de Oro with the signing of a memorandum of agreement with Xavier University-Ateneo De Cagayan. Abalos said the important role of schools like Xavier University-Ateneo De Cagayan and the church in the whole-of-nation BIDA campaign dwells on the holistic formation of the values of the youth and helping them lead productive lives away from the temptation of illegal drugs. DILG Region X Regional Director Wilhelm M. Suyko, who signed the MOA on behalf of the DILG, said youth involvement is a significant and strategic approach to further strengthen the advocacy of the program. “The good thing about this partnership is that this will also be an opportunity to involve the youth in this campaign. We believe that our students could make a change and that they are our instruments in communicating effectively with the youth as well,” Suyko said. The post DILG’s BIDA Program rolled out in Zamboanga del Sur appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NTF-ELCAC gives Church a seat
The Catholic Church will play a more significant role in the anti-insurgency effort through a recalibrated National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, or NTF-ELCAC, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said yesterday. The task force will now have the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs as a member. “We welcome the CBCP through its Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs to the NTF-ELCAC Executive Committee and we look forward to working with them in pursuing peace and development in all parts of the country, especially in conflict-affected areas,” Año said. The task force indicated an openness to suggestions from the Church in adopting “moral and ethical approaches in addressing the communist insurgency,” as cited by CBCP president and Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David in a recent statement. “We are opening the door of NTF-ELCAC to the Church because it has an important role to play in ending violence and terrorism in the country,” Año said. “For more than 50 years, we have lived with the scourge of the communist armed conflict. With peace now in sight, the Church has an important role to play in ensuring peace and development in the long term,” he added. With the CBCP in the NTF-ELCAC, Año believes that concerns raised by the Church or by cause-oriented groups supported by them could be immediately addressed. “Because of this development, the Church will have more opportunity to relay its concerns, since its mandate is to act as a liaison of the CBCP to the government,” he said, citing the attendance of Fr. Jerome Secillano at the NTF-ELCAC executive committee meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Malacañang on Friday. Año reiterated that the task force’s main mandate is to formulate “whole-of-nation” policies to end armed conflict in the country. “CBCP’s membership in the task force ensures a whole-of-nation’s participation because the religious sector is an important component of the nation,” he said. Intervention in influenced areas Año sees the CBCP making significant contributions to the development of areas previously under the influence of the New People’s Army, as well as facilitating social inclusivity in the pursuit of peace. “Given that we are now on the road to total victory, it’s necessary that we recalibrate the way we do things and the entry of the CBCP to the NTF-ELCAC is one of the changes we have implemented under the Marcos administration,” he said. More rebels rejoin society NTF-ELCAC also expressed optimism the government can sustain its peace-building effort to encourage more rebels to reintegrate into mainstream society. At a forum on Saturday, NTF-ELCAC director Alexander Umpar said that in 2023, a total of 959 villages cleared of the insurgency were included in the Barangay Development Program or BDP, an initiative that aims to bring sustainable development programs to conflict-prone and conflict-affected communities. Under the BDP, each village recipient receives a package of programs, activities, and projects worth a maximum of P20 million. BDP beneficiaries in 2021 and 2022 numbered 822 and 1,406, respectively, he said. Umpar said the NTF-ELCAC is confident that by 2028, it would have attained its goal of achieving lasting peace and development in areas that are vulnerable to armed conflict. “‘By 2028, it is about sustaining the momentum of NTF-ELCAC gains with regard to the dismantling of guerrilla fronts, the reintegration of former rebels, and most of all, building resiliency for our communities under the ambit of good governance toward unity, peace and development,” he said. The government, he said, has dismantled 69 of 89 guerrilla fronts since the creation of the task force in 2018. One of the 20 remaining guerrilla fronts, he said, is active while 19 others had weakened. “‘When we say strategic victory, this (because) of the 19 weakened guerrilla fronts and only one is left to be confronted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he said. “There are still concerns about the armed groups but they are no longer able to initiate an armed struggle or to topple our government. So, that’s the strategic victory,” Umpar said. On the other hand, NTF-ELCAC director Jose Descallar urged rebels to give up and join the government in its goal of transforming the country into a “new Philippines.” He said the military could shift its focus to “external threats,” once the government is able to address the local insurgency. Meanwhile, Director Emmanuel Santos of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity said the conduct of localized peace engagements has been proven to be the “most effective” approach in addressing the communist insurgency. “We’re localizing the engagement so we will be closer to the people to make them feel that the government is really here,” Santos said. He added, however, that there should be “clear directions” to ensure the full reintegration of FRs into mainstream society. The post NTF-ELCAC gives Church a seat appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR begins crackdown on illegal lead smelters
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources reported Thursday that it has started its crackdown on illegal recyclers of used lead acid batteries as directed by Malacanang, following reports of harmful and unregulated smelting of lead in several provinces. DENR Assistant Secretary for Field Operations Gilbert C. Gonzales said his office has already coordinated with the regional offices concerning operations of illegal lead smelters that are treating ULABs, while the Environmental Management Bureau has also directed its regional offices to conduct surveillance and monitoring in their respective areas of responsibility. Gonzales said this was in response to the order of the Office of the President to the agency to look into the report of Federation of Philippine Industries Chairman Jesus L. Arranza that illegal lead smelters are now operating without the necessary government permits in Valenzuela, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Cavite, Cebu, Bacolod, and Davao. Gonzales added that ULAB recyclers and lead smelters need to secure the “necessary environmental permits such as an environmental compliance certificate, discharge permit, permit to operate, and registration certificate as a treatment, storage, and disposal facility.” With this, the EMB has vowed to immediately conduct: Field verification of ULAB processing facilities to validate compliance, as well as saturation drives to identify individuals and establishments engaged in the illegal processing of ULABs; Enhanced information education campaign to encourage the public to report illegal ULAB processing activities; Intensified monitoring of junk shop operations engaged in the trade of ULABs in coordination with local government units; and exploration of potential collaboration with accredited ULAB treaters for the establishment of an incentives program for the general public who will be able to provide credible information that will lead to the successful identification of individuals and establishments engaging in illegal processing of ULABs. Arranza commended lawyer Rodolfo John Robert C. Palattao IV, Undersecretary for Legal and Monitoring at the Office of the President, and the DENR’s EMB and Field Operations for their immediate action in addressing the problem. “We at the FPI are confident that with the directive from Malacanang and swift action from the DENR, we will start seeing in the coming days successful raids and closures of these illegal ULAB recyclers and lead smelters, as well as the prosecution of their operators. We will now coordinate with them so we can provide any assistance that they will necessary,” Arranza said. He disclosed that the FPI was provided with photos and videos showing how these illegal lead smelters are operating facilities that are shabby and ill-equipped to be able to handle the hazardous materials where they are deriving their secondary lead. Arranza said these lead smelters do not have adequate anti-pollution systems and proper disposal facilities for the acids and other chemicals. The post DENR begins crackdown on illegal lead smelters appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A morning stroll around Tuguegarao
Tuguegarao’s market, the hub of commerce for the capital city and nearby towns in the province of Cagayan, northern Luzon, is a quintessential site in provincial commercial centers with vendors preparing their produce and products to be sold for the day. Bags of pansit and bean sprouts were being unloaded for pansiterias to cook the city’s famous noodle dish, pansit batil potun, widely known as pansit batil patong, while early marketgoers visited the local karinderyas serving dishes such as igado and dinardaraan. An ambulant street-side stall sold meryenda or even breakfast fares best served with coffee — puto, suman, cassava cake, and the made-to-order bibingka of many kinds. [caption id="attachment_176530" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Horno ruins (Photo by Edgar Allan M. Sembrano)[/caption] All activities radiated from the multi-level market which spans one block, a landmark to behold not architecturally but for the space it occupies and the important function it and its immediate areas serve to the community. After all, Tuguegarao is still “the best pueblo for commerce in the valley,” as noted in the early 20th century by Dominican priest Valentin Marin. At the city center, there are quite a number of wooden and mid-20th century bahay na bato which breaks the monotony of the modern concrete structures. Of course, Tuguegarao is known for the San Pedro Cathedral, the seat of the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, and the much smaller Ermita de Piedra de San Jacinto, both made of bricks and built by the Dominicans during the Spanish colonial period. [caption id="attachment_176532" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Our Lady of Chartres Chapel (Photo by Edgar Allan M. Sembrano)[/caption] The Tuguegarao Cathedral was built from 1761 to 1766 by Fr. Antonio Lobato de Santo Tomas who also built the convent, belfry, a famed bridge, large lime-and-brick kilns, and the 25 parallel streets crisscrossed with the same number of streets forming a grid pattern. The same priest also contributed to the literary scene in the region with his Ibanag-Spanish dictionary, Ibanag grammar, and Ibanag devotional treatises. Cagayan is home to the Ibanag people as well as other ethnic groups such as the Itawes and the Ilocano. The San Jacinto chapel meanwhile was built in 1724, making it 'the oldest' structure in Tuguegarao. It still has its original wooden retablo and an iron fence installed in 1890 by Fr. Romulado Aguado, Tuguegarao’s parish priest that year. It is located east of the Colegio de San Jacinto, now the campus of the St. Paul University Philippines, originally the Colegio de San Pablo founded in 1907 by the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres. [caption id="attachment_176531" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Old building at USL (Photo by Edgar Allan M. Sembrano)[/caption] It was in 1934 that the school transferred to the site of the Colegio de San Jacinto from the Cathedral’s convent following their purchase of the colegio’s property. The colegio was located west of the chapel, the area of which is now part of College Avenue and the SPUP campus. That colegio originally served as the Colegio de Santa Imelda, an all-girls school which operated from 1892 to 1898 and was later converted into the Colegio de San Jacinto, a school for boys from 1901 to 1932. The girl’s college building was erected in 1890 under the direction of Fr. Dionisio Casas, the Dominican Provincial Vicar of that time with plans drawn by a certain Fr. Bruges and funds from the Dominican Province of the Holy Rosary. The front façade measures 75 meters while the side facades of the E-shaped edifice measures 25 meters each. The building is 17 meters wide and 10 meters high. It was of the bahay na bato style where the first level was made from stone and second level of wood. The project cost P75,000. Apart from the school building, then the biggest in the province, there used to be a separate wooden house in the area for the use of the Father Vicar. Both buildings no longer exist today. At present, the SPUP with its sprawling campus is host to many buildings including the impressive Gothic —inspired Our Lady of Chartres Chapel built in the second half the 20th century. During the Spanish colonial period, Tuguegarao was noted to have a carcel (jail), casa tribunal (court house), and schools, all of excellent construction. Today, the jail and courthouse house the Cagayan Museum and Historical Research Center which is at present being renovated. In front of this complex is the Rizal Park with the Rizal Monument. Rizal’s monument replaced that of Fr. Lobato de Santo Tomas in 1918. [caption id="attachment_176529" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Fr. Theophiel Verbist monument (Photo by Edgar Allan M. Sembrano)[/caption] Fronting Rizal Park is the old government center of Tuguegarao, now the Tuguegarao East Central School with the American-era municipio reused as one of the buildings of the school. Few blocks from Tuguegarao’s plaza complex are two brick hornos separated by a covered basketball court. Tuguegarao’s other horno is located in the same village (Barangay Centro 9) at the edge of the Pinacanauan River. These kilns produced lime and bricks for the construction of the city’s Spanish colonial buildings such as the church complex and the cemetery portal, walls and chapel. [caption id="attachment_176527" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Cagayan High School (Photo by Edgar Allan M. Sembrano)[/caption] During the American period, public buildings such as schools were also built. These include the Gabaldon-style Cagayan High School Building and the Cagayan Valley College of Arts and Trades. The Cagayan High School Building still exists to this day while the campus of the Cagayan college which is located in front of the former is now the Cagayan State University after its merger with the Northern Luzon College of Agriculture in 1972 through Presidential Decree 1436. The CSU campus now houses a number of overly decorated buildings, perhaps it most unique feature. [caption id="attachment_176528" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Ermita de San Jacinto (Photo by Edgar Allan M. Sembrano)[/caption] Also during the American colonial period, Dutch Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary priest Msgr. Constant Jurgens founded a school for boys named Cagayan Valley Atheneum inside the Tuguegarao Church complex. This school existed from 1938 to 1946 but it was destroyed during World War II. After the war, it was taken over by the Jesuits and renamed Ateneo de Tuguegarao which operated until 1962. In 1965, it became the Saint Louis College of Tuguegarao under the CICM priests and in 2002, University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao. The university’s campus, located on Arellano, Mabini and Lecaros streets, still has its mid-20th century, U-shaped wooden building and features a number of monuments including those of St. Louis Gonzaga, USL’s patron saint; two for Fr. Theophile Verbist, CICM founder; and the gigantic Good Shepherd at the facade of the Good Shepherd Chapel. Exiting through the schools main campus to Lecaros Street, one is greeted by the Bayani Hall Lecaros, the city’s first condominium building, adding another layer to the city’s history. These layers define what is Tuguegarao now, a bustling commercial center, showing glimpses of its storied past of its peoples. The post A morning stroll around Tuguegarao appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The initiation of the discharge of ALPS treated water into the sea
On 22 August, the Government of Japan has decided in the meeting to initiate the discharge of ALPS (Advanced Liquid Processing System) treated water into the sea and to request TEPCO to promptly prepare for the start of the discharge into the sea. If there are no interference due to weather or sea conditions, the day of the initiation of discharge into the sea is expected to be 24 August. On 4 July 2023, The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) published the Comprehensive Report. The report states that Japan’s plans to discharge the ALPS treated water into the sea and associated activities are consistent with relevant international safety standards, and the discharge will have a negligible radiological impact on people and the environment. Japan has provided information to the international community in a transparent manner based on scientific evidence, with an emphasis on providing sufficient data. Nevertheless, there are some who questioned the IAEA Comprehensive Report. I believe this is evidence of their disregard for science and such moves will only hamper global cooperation in utilizing nuclear energy and jeopardize international cooperation to ensure its safety. A spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China once said that “the study of origins is a scientific matter that should be conducted jointly by scientists all over the globe and should not be politicized” in response to criticism of the WHO-China joint study of the origins of SARS-CoV-2. Japan has exactly done this about ALPS treated water—leave the issue to the scientists to solve. The IAEA also notes that the discharge into the sea is “technically feasible.” In more detail, we will manage the annual discharge volume of tritium so it will not exceed 22 trillion Bq, which is equivalent to the target discharge management value for the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station before the accident. It is worth noting that other countries also discharge tritium into the sea in compliance with their own domestic laws and regulations; for instance, according to China Nuclear Energy Association website, China, discharging 112 trillion Bq from Yangjiang Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) in 2021. The amount of tritium in the ALPS treated water is far smaller than the amount of tritium discharged from many nuclear power plants and other facilities in other countries. In addition, Japan will take all possible measures to ensure the safety of the discharge into the sea even after it begins, and will not discharge anything that could adversely affect the health or environment. After the start of discharge into the sea, Japan will continue to conduct three types of monitoring (monitoring of treated water in tanks, real-time monitoring, and sea area monitoring) in a multilayered manner with the involvement of the IAEA, and if some event occurs, such as radioactivity levels exceeding standards, appropriate measures, including not discharging or suspending the discharge, will be taken. The information and experience gained in this long and difficult process of decommissioning nuclear power plant will be shared to help solve similar problems that the world may face in the future. Having gone through unprecedented hardships since the Great East Japan Earthquake, the Government of Japan has been and will continue to provide the necessary information in a transparent manner in close collaboration with the IAEA and will continue efforts to gain further understanding from the international community, while scientifically refuting politically motivated opinions. The post The initiation of the discharge of ALPS treated water into the sea appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
City of Firsts welcomes Gateway Mall 2, ibis Styles Hotel
The Araneta Group announced the completion of the Gateway Square, marked with the grand launch of Gateway Mall 2 and the pioneering ibis Styles Hotel. Gateway Mall 2, an extension of the Gateway Mall, has opened its doors to the public, ushering in a new era of retail and entertainment experiences. This massive P5 billion construction has 11 levels and a total area of 190,000 square meters. Gateway Mall 2 is ready to revolutionize the entire nature of contemporary shopping centers. It is a hub for various dining, entertainment and leisure opportunities. Lorna Fabian, Araneta Group vice president for leasing at the Araneta Group, said, “Gateway Mall 2 promises to be like no other mall in the world.” She added, “This is the latest in our ongoing efforts to keep providing firsts in the City of Firsts.” Diverse offerings With more than 400 businesses carrying domestic and foreign brands, Gateway Mall 2 provides a wide range of options in fashion, recreation, wellness, technology and gaming. Many well-known companies are expected to follow in the footsteps of notable companies like Anta, Converse, Puma and Skechers, which have already opened their doors. The mall boasts over 150 dining options ranging from quick bites to high-concept restaurants, including renowned names like a mano, Mamou, Grace Park, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse, Shake Shack, and more. Distinctive features [caption id="attachment_172969" align="aligncenter" width="525"] The 1,000-seat Sagrada Familia Church. | PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF PAULINE PASCUAL[/caption] The 1,000-seat Sagrada Familia Church, one of the mall’s standout attractions, was creatively designed with inspiration from the earlier times bishop’s miter and nods to Manhattan’s The Oculus. This stunning contemporary architecture is a tranquil haven with glass panels, stained glass windows and welcoming gardens. The pinnacle of innovation comes with the 700-square-meter Quantum Skyview, featuring the nation’s first ceiling-mounted LED display. [caption id="attachment_172967" align="aligncenter" width="525"] QUANTUM Skyview[/caption] The Quantum Skyview has already been used for the press conference of K-pop group EXO’s EXO-SC last 20 May, BTS’ 10th anniversary book, the 2023 PPOPCON Manila convention, and soon, more events will be made more exciting with this latest mall innovation. Marjorie Go, Araneta City’s AVP for Marketing, said: “We are redefining how our customers experience live events here at Araneta City. The Quantum Skyview provides an immersive visual experience that will thrill and delight our customers.” Future prospects By the end of the year, Gateway Mall 2 will welcome additional restaurant chains, shops and mall activities. Its title as the only mall in the Philippines with proximity to an indoor arena is cemented by its easy access to the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum. [caption id="attachment_172970" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ARANETA City’s Gateway Mall 2.[/caption] In conjunction with the new mall, the ibis Styles Hotel, the Philippines’ first of its kind, will be unveiled soon. This P2-billion establishment, operated under AccorHotels, will feature nearly 300 guest rooms, conference spaces and a rooftop deck with an infinity pool boasting sweeping views of Metro Manila. Completing a thriving superblock Gateway Mall 2 and the ibis Styles Hotel mark the final pieces in completing the 400,000 sqm Gateway Square superblock. This assemblage comprises the renowned Smart Araneta Coliseum, the Parking Garage South Building, Gateway Mall, Gateway Office, Gateway Tower, Novotel Manila and Gateway Mall. With 18 theaters with VIP lounges, more than 3,000 parking spots and easy access to attractions like the indoor floating garden, The Oasis, Topiary Park and Gateway Gallery, Gateway Square offers a haven from the everyday. Fabian said, “These new additions revitalize the integrated Gateway Square, offering a customizable modern and contemporary experience.” The post City of Firsts welcomes Gateway Mall 2, ibis Styles Hotel appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Eastern Samar church up in arms vs mining
BORONGAN CITY — Over a thousand parishioners under the Diocese of Borongan marched to the streets for a “Jericho Walk” on Monday morning to air grievances against the continued mining operations in the historic islands of Homonhon and Manicani in the southern town of Guiuan. The prayer rally, led by Borongan Bishop Crispin Varquez, was composed mainly of members of various pastoral organizations from different parishes under the diocese, students of catholic schools, seminarians, nuns and church workers. Fr. James Abella, head of Borongan’s diocesan social action center, said the church is alarmed by the escalating mining activities in the whole Samar Island especially in Guiuan. “It is also our way to call for action to protect the environment and the rights of communities in Homonhon and Manicani,” Abella said. The “Jericho Walk” started at the Borongan Capitol grounds and ended at the Cathedral Parish of the Nativity of Our Lady with a Mass where Varquez was the main presider. In his pastoral message, Varquez said mining operations have worsened the state of poverty due to its impact on marine ecosystems, livelihoods and their health and well-being. Varquez also appealed to the provincial and municipal boards as well as village leaders in affected communities not to endorse mining applications. He also asked the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau to cancel all mining permits in Samar island. “Let us not be blind to the current horrific effects of mining operations on our main islands, islets, radically scarring landscapes and seascapes,” said the bishop. He stressed that instead of mining, the government should promote agri-ecological tourism in these islands, saying that while mining only contributes 1.10 percent to the country’s gross domestic product, tourism’s share is at 5 to 6 percent. The post Eastern Samar church up in arms vs mining appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The rise of biophilic concept
As a leader of a multi-brand building materials and housing company, Satoshi Konagai’s vision of an ideal home combines functionality, comfort, aesthetics and sustainability. “Looking ahead to 2023 and the next five years, there are several trends and design trajectories that will influence spaces and products. There is a growing emphasis on biophilic design principles, which focus on the connection between humans and nature,” Konagai told Daily Tribune. [caption id="attachment_150620" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF LIXIL | Oxygen Homestay in Songkhla, Thailand.[/caption] Integrating green spaces, natural materials and access to outdoor views can have a positive impact on mental and physical well-being, promoting a sense of calm and rejuvenation. Indoor air quality, natural ventilation systems and maximizing access to natural light are also key considerations to create healthier and more comfortable environments. “Sustainability continues to be a significant trend in the design industry. LIXIL is committed to incorporating sustainable practices and technologies into our products and solutions. This includes energy-efficient, water-saving technologies, and eco-friendly materials. Designers are increasingly considering renewable energy sources and utilizing recycled or upcycled materials to minimize environmental impact,” Konagai said. Spaces and products that offer flexibility and adaptability are gaining prominence, too. The changing needs of users require designs that can easily transform to accommodate different functions and activities. Modular and flexible furniture, versatile room configurations, and adaptable building systems, potentially accelerated by artificial intelligence, are examples of design approaches that cater to evolving user requirements. [caption id="attachment_150623" align="aligncenter" width="525"] INAX’S S600 line bathroom[/caption] “Inclusion and accessibility are important considerations in design. Spaces and products should be designed to be usable by people of diverse abilities and needs. Universal design principles, such as barrier-free access, intuitive wayfinding, and adjustable features, are being integrated into designs to create inclusive environments,” he said. Design and sustainability are deeply embedded in the company’s values and practices. It is committed to a more sustainable future, guided by its Environmental Vision 2050 which addresses climate change mitigation and adaptation, water sustainability, and the realization of a circular economy. “One aspect of our sustainability efforts is waste reduction. We have set a global target to recycle 90 percent of waste from operations by FYE2026. Throughout our value chain, we are actively working to reduce the use of single-use plastics for packaging. Our GROHE brand has made significant progress in this area, having eliminated over 37 million pieces of plastics packaging. This achievement is a result of rethinking conventional processes to minimize waste and promote reuse or recycling,” Konagai said. Water sustainability is another key focus area. [caption id="attachment_150621" align="aligncenter" width="525"] De Vielle by Amornchai.[/caption] “We recognize the importance of water as a precious resource and design our products to help consumers use water more efficiently. Our toilets feature innovative flushing technologies, such as the American Standard Double Vortex flushing design, rimless toilets, and highly water-efficient systems. These advancements significantly reduce water consumption and the need for cleaning agents for toilet maintenance. Additionally, our faucets and showers are equipped with advanced designs that maintain a steady water flow, minimizing water usage without compromising the consumer experience.” Beyond LIXIL, Konagai believes in the power of partnerships and collaborations to address industry-wide challenges. He said, “We actively engage with government organizations, manufacturers, and civil society partners such as the World Health Organization and the International Water Association. Together, we co-founded ‘A Global Pledge to Protect Drinking Water from Lead at the UN 2023 Water Conference. Through this movement, we collaborate to protect public health and safety, reduce lead exposure from drinking water, and achieve lead-free drinking water by 2040.” “For over a century, our brands have focused on its mission to enable everyone to create a home to love every day. We have always understood that it all begins with each person who aspires for a better life, from houses to hotels, master bath to kitchen sink, and college to stadium, consumers trust and continue to choose solutions to create inviting, intuitive and comfortable spaces,” he added. Konagai has over two decades of consulting and management experience and has held senior positions at Boston Consulting Group and UBS Securities Japan. He holds a master’s and bachelor’s degree from IMD Business School and Keio University respectively. The post The rise of biophilic concept appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pride screenings showcase a rainbow of stories
Cinema is one of the most engaging artforms and creative expressions through which the LGBTQ+ community documents their lived experiences, conveys their desires and struggles, celebrates their identities and advocates for reforms and deeper understanding. Thus, film screenings are popular activities during LGBTQ+ Pride Month. This year, several institutions, streaming service companies and film groups are mounting screenings, giving these works more opportunities to reach more audiences. Here is a rundown: FDCP’s Pelikulaya LGBTQIA+ Film Festival The Film Development Council of the Philippines brings back the Pelikulaya LGBTQIA+ Film Festival this year with the theme “Mga Kuwentong Mapagpalaya” (Liberating Stories), and the aim is training the spotlight “on underrepresented members of the LGBTQIA+ community to promote a better understanding of inclusivity, diversity and equality.” According to Tirso Cruz III, FDCP chairman and chief executive officer, Pelikulaya “aims to raise awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues. We believe that by using the power of film, we can do our part in showcasing films that celebrate LGBTQIA+ stories. Hoping to create understanding of the lives, perspectives and advocacies shown in each film.” “With that, the FDCP sends our love and gratitude to you all for being with us, and we hope you’ll have a memorable experience in all of our Cinematheque Centres across the Philippines,” he added. To be held from 23 to 30 June, Pelikulaya will screen titles at the Cinematheque Centres in Manila, Davao, Iloilo, Nabunturan and Bacolod, and several theaters in Metro Manila including Cinema ‘76 and UP Film Institute’s Cine Adarna/Videotheque. Some of the titles will also be available for streaming on JuanFlix (www.juanflix.com.ph) starting 30 June with a subscription fee. A special screening of a digitally restored and remastered version of Wong Kar Wai’s Happy Together will kick off the festival on 23 June at the Shangri-La Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong City. Aside from Happy Together, films that will be screened at the Cinematheque Centres are Girl (directed by Lukas Dhont); Portrait of a Lady on Fire (directed by Celine Sciamma); Women Do Cry (directed by Vesela Kazako and Mina Mileva); Billie and Emma (directed by Samantha Lee); Mamu, and a Mother Too (directed by Rod Singh); Metamorphosis (directed by J.E. Tiglao); and The Boy Foretold by the Stars (directed by Dolly Dulu). Ishmael Bernal’s Manila by Night will have a free screening. Priced from P100 to P200, tickets to Manila screenings may be purchased through bit.ly/CCManilaTickets. [caption id="attachment_146567" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Lukas Dhont’s ‘Girl’ is inspired by a true story of a young trans girl who aspired to be a ballerina.[/caption] Short films will be screened for free at the Cinematheque Centres, and the lineup includes Alingasngas ng mga Kuliglig (directed by Vahn Leinard Pascual); Love in the Ungodly Hour (directed by Bradley Jason Pantajo); Dikit (directed by Gabriela Serrano); Gulis (directed by Kyle Jumayne Francisco); Noontime Drama (directed by Kim Timan and Sam Villa-Real); and Nang Maglublob ako sa Isang Mangkok ng Liwanag (directed by Kukay Zinampan). [caption id="attachment_146563" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Dikit,’ a short film by Gabriela Serrano.[/caption] To be available for streaming on JuanFlix are Sila-Sila (directed by Giancarlo Abrahan); Metamorphosis; Mamu, and a Mother Too; Rome and Juliet (directed by Connie Macatuno); How to Die Young in Manila (directed by Petersen Vargas); Nang Maglublob ako sa Isang Mangkok ng Liwanag; and This is Not A Coming Out Story (directed by Mark Felix Ebreo). Portrait of a Lady on Fire and Women Do Cry will be also be available on a pay-per-view basis. At Cinema ’76 Cinema ’76 Film Society is bringing in acclaimed movies this Pride Month. Headlining is Happy Together, the 1997 Cannes-winning romantic drama directed by renowned Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Kar-Wai and featuring Tony Leung and the late Leslie Cheung as two lovers caught in a turbulent affair. Aside from Happy Together, two films featuring transgender experiences will also be shown. Girl is the debut film of Belgian filmmaker Lukas Dhont and won the Camera d’Or for Best Feature Film at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival. The film was inspired by a true story of a young trans girl who aspired to be a ballerina. On the other hand, Fanny: The Right to Rock is a documentary by Canadian filmmaker Bobbi Jo Hart about Fanny, the legendary Filipina-American-fronted rock band whose trailblazing impact in music was written out of history. The film touches on the place of women, women of color, queers and older women in a straight male-dominated industry. [caption id="attachment_146564" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Fanny The Right to Rock,’ a documentary about a forgotten queer band.[/caption] The three films will have a limited run from 21 to 27 June at Cinema ’76 on Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City. On iWantTFC A streaming platform with international reach, iWantTFC celebrates all types of love with a special selection of movies and series called Love is Love that includes Drag You and Me, iWantTFC’s latest original series that tackles drag culture and stars Andrea Brillantes, JC Alcantara and Christian Bables. Other iWantTFC originals that viewers may stream are the Girls’ Love series Sleep with Me, starring Janine Gutierrez and Lovi Poe, and Fluid, Boys’ Love (BL) rom-com Oh, Mando! and advocacy series Mga Batang Poz. [caption id="attachment_146566" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of Dreamscape Entetainment | ‘Drag You and Me’ is an iWantTFC original series that tackles drag culture.[/caption] There are also empowering movies and series about loving freely and living authentically, such as The Boy Foretold by the Stars and its sequel series Love Beneath the Stars, Black Sheep’s hit series Hello Stranger starring Tony Labrusca and JC Alcantara, and the Star Cinema film My Lockdown Romance, starring Jameson Blake and Joao Constancia. Stories on learning how to embrace one’s sexuality and being true to oneself are told by The Panti Sisters, Die Beautiful, The Third Party and Baka Bukas. Thai BL series, such as 2gether the Series, Still 2gether, A Tale of a Thousand Stars and Bad Buddy are also available to stream as well as well-loved and classic LGBTQ-themed movies, such as T-Bird at Ako, Si Chedeng at si Apple and In My Life. These can be viewed on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and website (iwanttfc.com). In other select countries, watch iWantTFC on a larger screen with select devices, including VEWD, ROKU and Amazon Fire streaming devices, Android TV, select Samsung Smart TV models, Telstra TV (in Australia) and VIDAA. On Jungo Pinoy New Filipino streaming app Jungo Pinoy, which boasts of having the largest Filipino-dubbed movie library in the world, as well as original films and TV series, also has a selection of LGBTQ-themed and queer-created films and series, which can be viewed either for free or through a subscription plan. Recommended watch includes: eCupid (exclusive Filipino-dubbed), a romantic comedy directed by JC Calciano and starring Morgan Fairchild, Houston Rhines and Noah Schuffman, tells the story of a gay man nearing 30 years old tapping into an otherworldly internet advertisement that begins to control his life. Hoping to end his seven-year romance rut, he uses the site to get everything he wants until he discovers that what he thought he wanted wasn’t the thing that would ultimately make him happy. Ten Year Plan (exclusive Filipino-dubbed) is another romantic comedy directed by Calciano and starring Jack Turner and Michael Adam Hamilton. In the film, two best friends make a pact to be together in a decade if neither finds love. With two months left until their deadline, they both scramble to find someone to avoid being each other’s last resort. [caption id="attachment_146565" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘TEN Year Plan,’ directed by JC Calciano.[/caption] Adan is a Filipino lesbian mystery and romance movie starring Cindy Miranda, Rhen Escano and Ruby Ruiz. In the movie, a naive provincial girl finds a way to be independent through the help of her girl best friend, but their actions have consequences. [caption id="attachment_146562" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photographs Courtesy oF JUNGO PINOY | ‘ADAN’ tells about a lesbian story.[/caption] Daddy Issues, starring Jo Ashe and Rachel Barry, is a comedy about loss and starting over. In the film, when her emotionally distant father dies and leaves her his company, a hapless stand-up comic moves to Los Angeles to take over the family business. Tucked is about an aging drag queen who forms an unlikely friendship with a younger queen. As they discover more about each other, they realize how to truly be themselves. Starring Derren Nesbit and Jordan Stephens, this film is about love, loss and friendship. Lady Gaga: iTunes Festival features the pop star’s performance at the Itunes Music Festival, which also marked the world premiere of tracks from her album ARTPOP. [caption id="attachment_146570" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JUNGO PINOY | WATCH pop star Lady Gaga perform in ‘Lady Gaga iTunes Festival.’[/caption] Sam Smith: Austin City Limits features the non-binary English singer and songwriter performing their greatest hits, such as “Nirvana” and “I Know I’m Not the Only One” on the stage at Austin City Limits. [caption id="attachment_146569" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Sam Smith: Austin City Limits.’[/caption] At the Quezon City Public Library A weekly film screening is part of the celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Month of one of the country’s most active public libraries, the Quezon City Public Library (QCPL). With the theme, “Equality for All,” their celebration aims “to highlight the unique contributions and lived experiences of the members of the LGBTQIA+ community through various library activities and informational resources.” “This celebration also forwards an aspiration: that one day, we will be able to genuinely acknowledge the existence of our fellow LGBTQIA+ brothers and sisters as equally valuable as everyone. And that they too deserve equal opportunity in any given situation and honest representation in all of its forms, shapes and sizes,” the library explained. The film screenings started with Love, Simon and Everything Everywhere All at Once on 9 June and All My Life and Bekikang on 16 June. Other films to be shown are Perks of Being A Wall Flower and Boys in the Band on 23 June, and Eternals and Imitation Game on 30 June. Screenings are from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Conference Room of QCPL. Contact the library to reserve slots. At the UPFI Film Center The University of the Philippines Film Institute also had screenings of LGBTQ+ films on 17 June, in partnership with the UP Diliman Gender Office. Shown were short films Gutab, Dory, Niknik, Kurozetto, Bakit, Papa? and Nang Maglublob Ako sa isang Mangkok ng Liwanag. The post Pride screenings showcase a rainbow of stories appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Selling off ‘assets’
This week, the Department of Finance announced that it has started selling non-performing assets to generate cash and strengthen its balance sheet. The government has already sold assets worth P800 million in the first six months of the Marcos administration, and it plans to sell assets worth P1.9 billion in 2023, according to Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno. The government’s asset sale program has several benefits and drawbacks. On the one hand, selling off non-performing assets can help the government generate much-needed funds. Priority projects, including infrastructure development, education, and healthcare, can be funded with the sale proceeds. Selling off non-performing assets can also assist the government in strengthening its balance sheet and lowering its debt load. The asset sale scheme, however, could also have significant disadvantages. For example, if the government sells off an excessive number of assets, it may be unable to continue offering the people basic services. Furthermore, the government may incur losses if it cannot sell its assets at a fair price. The government’s asset sale plan is comparable to initiatives taken by other nations. For instance, the US government has been selling off non-performing assets lately to generate cash and pay down debt. Ditto with the United Kingdom. The US Government Accountability Office, or GAO, reports that in 2022, the US government sold off assets worth $14.4 billion. These included possessions like land, boats, and cars. These sales generated money for several government initiatives, including funding the military, schools, and healthcare. In 2022, the UK government sold off a sizable number of assets. The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy — in charge of running UK’s asset sales program — sold assets worth £1.5 billion. This comprised property, stock in corporations, and government-owned structures. The National Health Service, education, and infrastructure were among the government projects that were supported using the money raised from these sales. The governments of the Philippines, the US, and UK are not the only ones that have sold off assets recently. Also last year, the Australian government sold assets worth $10.6 billion, while the Canadian government sold off $5.5 billion worth. The asset sale program of the Philippine government is akin to the initiatives to sell public property under the previous administrations of the late Noynoy Aquino and Marcos’ immediate predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte. Probably eclipsing all asset liquidation activities of any and all presidencies would be the one undertaken under the Ramos administration from 1992 to 1998. The Ramos government went on a selling spree of power plants, land, and other government properties, generating, according to one estimate, P70 billion. Overall, there are advantages and disadvantages to the Philippine government’s asset-selling policy. Before moving further, the government should carefully weigh the program’s possible advantages and disadvantages. The following points should be taken into consideration as the Marcos administration begins to sell off non-performing assets: Obtain a reasonable price for the assets, prevent the sale of too many assets that would limit the government’s ability to offer the public necessary services, and make sure that the money raised from the sales will go toward important initiatives like infrastructure development, education, and healthcare. Finally, the public should receive regular updates from the government regarding the asset sale process for there to be complete transparency. The sale of public property is a contentious topic. Some claim it is essential for governments to increase revenue and lower their debt load. Others contend that it is a means through which governments can privatize crucial services and lessen their responsibilities to the general populace. The post Selling off ‘assets’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Preserving heritage: Ethiopian quest to recreate ancient manuscripts
Armed with a bamboo ink pen and a steady hand, Ethiopian Orthodox priest Zelalem Mola carefully copies text in the ancient Ge'ez language from a religious book onto a goatskin parchment. This painstaking task is preserving an ancient tradition, all the while bringing him closer to God, says the 42-year-old. At the Hamere Berhan Institute in Addis Ababa, priests and lay worshippers work by hand to replicate sometimes centuries-old religious manuscripts and sacred artwork. The parchments, pens, and inks are all prepared at the institute, which lies in the Piasa district in the historic heart of the Ethiopian capital. Yeshiemebet Sisay, 29, who is in charge of communications at Hamere Berhan, says the work began four years ago. "Ancient parchment manuscripts are disappearing from our culture, which motivated us to start this project," she says. The precious works are kept mainly in monasteries, where prayers or religious chants are conducted using only parchment rather than paper manuscripts. "However, this custom is rapidly fading... We thought if we could learn skills from our priests, we could work on it ourselves, so that is how we began," adds Yeshiemebet. 'It's hard work' In the institute's courtyard, workers stretch the goatskins tightly over metal frames to dry under a weak sun that barely pierces the milky sky. "After the goatskin is immersed in the water for three to four days, we make holes on the edge of the skin and tie it to the metal so that it can stretch," says Tinsaye Chere Ayele. "After that, we remove the extra layer of fat on the skin's inside to make it clean." Alongside two other colleagues, the 20-year-old carries out his task using a makeshift scraper, seemingly oblivious to the stench emanating from the animal hide. Once clean and dry, the skins are stripped of the goat hair and then cut to the desired size for use as pages of a book or for painting. Yeshiemebet says most of the manuscripts are commissioned by individuals who then donate them to churches or monasteries. Some customers order for themselves small collections of prayers or paintings to have "reproductions of ancient Ethiopian works", she adds. "Small books can take one or two months. If it is a collective work, large books can take one to two years. "If it's an individual task, it can take even longer," she says, leafing through books clad in red leather, their texts adorned with brightly colored illuminations and religious images. Sitting in one of the institute's rooms, with parchment pages placed on his knees, Zelalem patiently copies a book entitled "Zena Selassie" ("History of the Trinity"). "It is going to take a lot of time. It's hard work, starting with the preparation of the parchment and the inks. This one could take up to six months to complete," the priest says. "We make a stylus from bamboo, sharpening the tip with a razor blade." The scribes use different pens for each color used in the text -- black or red -- and either a fine or broad tip, with the inks made from various local plants. 'Talking to saints and God' Like most other religious works, "Zena Selassie" is written in Ge'ez. This dead language remains the liturgical language of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and its alpha syllabic system -- where the characters represent syllables -- is still used to write Ethiopia's national language Amharic as well as Tigrinya, which is spoken in Tigray and neighboring Eritrea. "We copy from paper to parchment to preserve (the writings) as the paper book can be easily damaged, while this one will last a long time if we protect it from water and fire," says Zelalem. Replicating the manuscripts "needs patience and focus. It begins with a prayer in the morning, at lunchtime, and ends with prayer." "It is difficult for an individual to write and finish a book, just to sit the whole day, but thanks to our devotion, a light shines brightly within us," Zelalem adds. "It takes so much effort that it makes us worthy in the eyes of God." This spiritual dimension also guides Lidetu Tasew, who is in charge of education and training at the institute, where he teaches painting and illuminations. "Spending time here painting saints is like talking to saints and to God," says the 26-year-old, who was brought up in a church. "We have been taught that wherever we paint saints, there is the spirit of God." The post Preserving heritage: Ethiopian quest to recreate ancient manuscripts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»