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LA Tenorio, Eya Laure underscore importance of sports camps
Basketball icon LA Tenorio and volleyball star Eya Laure relished going back to their roots as they made an appearance in the launching of a barangay sports grassroots program this weekend......»»
Rodel Wenceslao banners explosive Engkwentro 12 card in Masbate
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Rodel “The Hulk” Wenceslao continues on his journey towards redeeming his boxing career by challenging for the World Boxing Foundation (WBF) Australasian welterweight title in the main event of “Engkwentro 12: Binombahay sa Cawayan” on March 8, in Cawayan town, Masbate. The 30-year-old Wenceslao takes on Ernie Sanchez in the titular.....»»
Philippines’ GCash banners success story at Singapore FinTech Festival 2023
The Philippines’ leading financial super app, GCash, brings its financial inclusion and FinTech success story to the global stage at the Singapore FinTech Festival 2023......»»
Philippines’ GCash banners success story at Singapore FinTech Festival 2023
The Philippines’ leading financial super app, GCash, brings its financial inclusion and FinTech success story to the global stage at the Singapore FinTech Festival 2023......»»
Starting ‘em young
Three days from now, Filipinos will troop to the polling precincts once again to elect their Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials in what is supposed to be an integral component of the country’s democratic system. The elections, postponed many times before, allow for the representation and participation of local communities and the youth. However, these elections have not been without controversy, with allegations of vote buying and the distribution of illegal campaign materials tarnishing the democratic process. Held every three years, the Barangay and SK Elections, also known as BSKE, play a critical role in the Philippine political landscape. Barangays are the smallest administrative units in the country, serving as the frontline of government service delivery. The SK, on the other hand, specifically represents the youth, offering them an opportunity to engage in the political process from a young age. Barangay elections ensure that the grassroots communities are represented in local governance. Residents can choose leaders directly responsible for addressing their immediate concerns, such as public safety, health, and education. SK elections aim to involve the youth in decision-making processes. By participating in these elections, young people can gain valuable experience in leadership, advocacy, and community service, setting the stage for their future involvement in national politics. These elections serve as a training ground for democracy, allowing citizens to exercise their right to vote and make informed choices. The principles of accountability, transparency, and participation are nurtured at the community level. Barangay elections can be particularly empowering for marginalized groups, including women and indigenous communities, who have the opportunity to run for office and make their voices heard. However, despite the importance of the BSKE, they have been marred by allegations of vote buying and the distribution of illegal campaign materials. These practices raise concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and whether they indicate an early introduction to corrupt political practices. Vote buying, whereby candidates offer money, goods, or services in exchange for votes, is a long-standing issue in Philippine politics. While it is not exclusive to Barangay and SK elections, the fact that such allegations surface even in these local-level contests is troubling. It begs the question of whether young people are witnessing and, to some extent, participating in a system that normalizes the exchange of votes for material gain. One possible explanation for the prevalence of vote buying is the socio-economic conditions in many barangays. Poverty and inequality can create an environment where voters may be more susceptible to monetary incentives. This underscores the need for broader efforts to alleviate poverty and promote education and awareness about the value of their vote. Another issue is the widespread use of illegal campaign materials, such as posters, banners, and pamphlets that do not conform to electoral regulations. While this may seem like a relatively minor infraction, it contributes to a culture of disregard for the rule of law and electoral integrity. Starting young in politics should ideally involve nurturing values of ethics and civic responsibility. Instead, when young people are exposed to campaigns that flout the rules, it may inadvertently teach them that bending or breaking rules is an acceptable strategy to achieve political goals. This sends a damaging message about the importance of playing by the rules in a democracy. Addressing the issues of vote buying and illegal campaign materials in barangay and SK elections is crucial to preserving the democratic process and instilling positive values in young people. Schools and community organizations should conduct programs to educate young people about the significance of their vote, ethical campaigning, and the consequences of vote buying. Such programs can help instill a sense of civic responsibility. The Commission on Elections, on the other hand, should vigorously enforce campaign finance and election laws, penalizing candidates who engage in illegal practices. It is crucial, therefore, to address these issues by emphasizing education, enforcement of election laws, transparency, and community involvement. In doing so, these elections can better serve as platforms for shaping the future leaders of the nation who are committed to the principles of democracy, integrity, and ethical governance. The post Starting ‘em young appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Davao Cenro underscores how trees mitigate rising temperatures
The Davao City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) recently underscored the vital role of trees in mitigating rising temperatures. In a radio interview, Christopher Asibal, chief of the Cenro Upland Community Project & Forest Management Section, explained that trees and humans have a symbiotic relationship. Trees provide oxygen for humans to breathe, while humans help trees by absorbing their carbon dioxide. Asibal also noted various environmental ordinances in the city, particularly the recent Heritage Tree Ordinance, which aims to protect trees that hold significant value for both the city and the environment. He urged Dabawenyos who have trees in their areas to take proper care of them, especially during the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Election (BSKE) period when campaigners often attach banners to trees. Asibal said that any injury to a tree can serve as an entry point for fungi, leading to the tree's deterioration......»»
Uy banners LPGT bets in Taiwan tilt
All but one of the seven winners in this year’s 10-leg Ladies Philippine Golf Tour gear up for a highly charged duel with the best of the LPGA of Taiwan in the Party Golfers Ladies Open, which blasts off on Nov. 8 at the Lily Golf and Country Club in Guanxi Township in Hsinchu, Taiwan......»»
Aranas banners Filipino cue artists in Hanoi Open Pool Championship
James Aranas, half of the team that topped the World Cup of Pool in Spain last July, seeks more glory as he spearheads a lean but mean Philippine squad......»»
COMELEC: ‘Anything of value’ given to BSKE voters is ground for disqualification
The Commission on Elections on Thursday again reminded candidates for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections that anything of value they or their supporters give to voters is a ground for disqualification. At the regular Laging Handa press briefing of Malacañang, COMELEC spokesperson Atty. John Rex Laudiangco said BSKE candidates are limited only to giving approved campaign materials under the Omnibus Election Code. "Malinaw po kung ano lamang ang pinahihintulutang campaign or election propaganda – ito po iyong leaflets or flyers na hindi dapat lalaki sa 8 1/2 by 14 inches; ang atin pong posters or tarpaulins na hindi dapat lalaki sa 2 feet by 3 feet; at iyong banners po, iyong streamers na hindi dapat lumaki sa 3 feet by 8 feet," Laudiangco explained. "Any other kind of campaign paraphernalia like t-shirts, ball caps, baller bands at iba pa ay maaaring pumasok doon sa sinasabi ng Section 2618 ng Omnibus Election Code, iyong pamimigay ng anumang bagay na may halaga, anything of value. Iyan po kasi ay maaaring ma-consider dahil may halaga po ito, maaaring ma-consider na isang pamamaraan po ng pamimili ng boto," he added. Even if candidates claim that such items were only given by supporters, that is still in violation of Section 2618 of the Election Code, according to the Comelec officials. He said they came out with an advisory about this issue last September 4, reiterating what is only mandated and allowed by Section 2618. "Lumalabas po na lahat nang hindi nabanggit sa batas ay hindi pupuwede, at kapag ito ay may halaga, maaari po itong maging vote-buying or vote-selling na elemento. Ngayon, kahit po supporter, hindi lamang kandidato ang maaaring may liability pagdating sa premature campaigning, paglabag sa campaign materials, paglabag sa vote-buying or vote-selling law." "Paalala po sa lahat ng kandidato: Ang maaari ninyo lamang pong gastusin sa inyong pangangampanya ay hindi lalampas ng limang piso kada registered voter sa inyong barangay. So para hindi kayo mahirapan po, ang bilang ng total number of registered voters po ninyo times five pesos – barangay lamang po ha, sa inyong barangay lamang – ay iyon po ang maximum spending cap limit po ninyo," Laudiangco further warned. Penalties for these offenses range from six years' imprisonment to forfeiture of the right to suffrage and the biggest penalty of perpetual disqualification to hold public office, he said. The post COMELEC: ‘Anything of value’ given to BSKE voters is ground for disqualification appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MORE Power Unveils Enhanced E-Billing Program with Exciting Raffle Promo
Iloilo City - In a move that underscores its commitment to customer convenience, MORE Power is elevating its E-Billing Program to new heights. On September 1st, the company officially introduced E-Billing via its Facebook Page, "MORE Power Iloilo”. Gone are the days of hassles associated with paper statements, as MORE Power proudly presents its E-Billing service under the banner of "Less Stress Na, Easy Access Pa." Accessing your electronic statement of account has never been simpler. MORE Power offers customers the choice of utilizing a QR Code or a dedicated link, both readily available on their Facebook Page and various materials including banners strategically placed in different barangays and at their Customer Services Office located in Hotel Del Rio. This initiative marks a significant milestone in MORE Power's ongoing commitment to streamlining its processes and delivering advanced services to its valued customers. With e-Billing, consumers can conveniently access their electricity bills anytime, anywhere, putting their statements at their fingertips. E-Billing offers an electronic rendition of monthly electricity Statements of Account, accessible via email or push messaging. MORE Power's E-Billing offers an array of benefits to its customers: • Convenience - Consumers can effortlessly retrieve their bills at any hour, no matter their location, enabling a hassle-free experience. • Accuracy - E-Billing is delivered directly to your designated email address, accessible through your registered online account, ensuring precision in every transaction. • Environmentally Responsible - By eliminating the need for paper bills, e-Billing contributes to environmental sustainability by conserving precious trees. • BIR Compliance - MORE Power's issuance of e-Billing is fully recognized and certified by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), guaranteeing compliance with government regulations. • Timely Delivery - Customers will receive their bills promptly on the cut-off date, providing ample time to prepare the necessary payment. During the E-Billing launch event, which was an integral part of the "MORE Power at Your Service" initiative, hosted by Miss Joy Fantilaga, Strategic Communication Officer, Miss Maricon Garrido, the Customer Care Manager, discussed a step-by-step walkthrough on how to register for E-Billing. Garrido succinctly explained the straightforward registration process, which entails scanning the QR Code or following the link and providing basic information including a 12-digit account number, email address, and contact number. Upon successful registration, customers receive email and text notifications confirming their enrollment, with electronic billing statements commencing the subsequent billing cycle. Miss Maricris Cabalhin, VP for Marketing, Corporate Affairs and Customer Care, enthusiastically disclosed that registered E-Billing users will have the exciting opportunity to participate in the monthly raffle draw. "All customers who successfully enroll in E-Billing automatically become eligible for our Monthly Raffle. Furthermore, customers who were previously registered for E-Billing and opted to discontinue receiving hard copies of their statements before the promo period are also included in the Raffle Draw," Cabalhin announced. In the Monthly Draws, each month from September to November, 50 fortunate winners will walk away with Php500 worth of E-Gifts, selected through electronic raffle. For the Preliminary Draws in December and January, the stakes are raised, with 50 winners receiving Php500 worth of E-Gifts and an additional 20 winners receiving Php1,000 worth of E-Gifts, all determined through electronic raffle. The Grand Draw, a highlight scheduled for February 2024 during MORE Power's 5th Anniversary celebration, marks the milestone of the franchise granted to MORE Power in February 2019. The Grand Draw promises a grand spectacle, with coveted prizes such as an E-Bike and an E-4wheel vehicle awaiting the fortunate winners. The post MORE Power Unveils Enhanced E-Billing Program with Exciting Raffle Promo appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Thaksin jailed
Former Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra returned home from 15 years in exile on Tuesday and was immediately jailed. The divisive billionaire landed in a private jet at Bangkok’s Don Mueang airport at 9 a.m. to the cheers of hundreds of noisy “Red Shirt” supporters waving banners and singing songs. Thaksin, 74, bowed and offered a floral garland at a portrait of King Maha Vajiralongkorn at the terminal before he was taken to the Supreme Court, where he was ordered to serve eight years for three convictions passed in his absence. WITH AFP The post Thaksin jailed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Lithuania-Belarus crossings to close
Several dozen cars lined up in Sumskas at Lithuania’s border with Belarus Saturday ahead of the crossing’s closure next week. Lithuania will shut two of its six border checkpoints with Belarus, including the crossing in Sumskas in response to escalating tensions between the neighbors. Vilnius has warned of a provocations threat by Minsk as Russian mercenaries of the Wagner group are now based in Belarus following their short-lived rebellion in Russia. “By granting shelter to the Wagner military group, Belarus has become a state that harbors a terrorist organization,” Lithuanian Deputy Foreign Minister Mantas Adomenas told reporters. “New security challenges have emerged and we must take them into account,” he added. For casual travelers, the reduction of the border crossings will mean extended waiting times at the remaining checkpoints, which will now also be shared with buses and trucks. Some Lithuanians say they would need to abandon their excursions to Belarus completely. ‘Stay away’ Lithuanian authorities say around 230,000 Lithuanian citizens went to Belarus in the first half of 2023 despite political tensions and multiple warnings from the government to stay away from the authoritarian state. This week, the government installed banners at all border checkpoints with Belarus bearing the inscription “Do not risk your safety — do not travel to Belarus. You may fail to come back.” The officials in Vilnius say Minsk may be trying to recruit some travelers to Belarus for espionage, exert psychological pressure, or even blackmail the Lithuanian citizens by performing checks on their phones and social media. “Every citizen of Lithuania who goes to Belarus must assess all the risks, including those to their health and life,” Rustamas Liubajevas, head of the border guard service, said. WITH AFP The post Lithuania-Belarus crossings to close appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Huge mass in Lisbon ahead of pope’s arrival for ‘Catholic Woodstock’
A sea of flag-waving pilgrims from around the world packed a Lisbon park on Tuesday for an open-air Mass that kicked off a week-long jamboree of Catholic youth on the eve of the arrival of Pope Francis. Lisbon's patriarch, Cardinal Manuel Clemente, delivered the homily at the service held at the hillside Eduardo VII Park with sweeping views of the Portuguese capital and the Tagus River. "Lisbon welcomes you wholeheartedly," he told the crowd as pilgrims waved national flags in the air. Local authorities expect some 300,000 people to attend the opening Mass of World Youth Day, which is actually a week of religious, cultural, and festive events held every three years in a different city. Francis is set to arrive in Lisbon on Wednesday morning to join the event, which has been dubbed the "Catholic Woodstock". The 86-year-old pontiff is by Church standards the most liberal pope in decades and is very popular with young people. During his papacy, he has tried to create a more compassionate church, reaching out to the gay community and talking frankly to youngsters about abortion, divorce, and gender identity. "Pope Francis is open to young people," said Cristina Kelly, a 39-year-old who came from Brazil, just before the start of the Mass. "He called on us and we came. People need that today, for young people to be called to God," she told AFP. 'Recharge spiritual battery' In Portugal, the pope has a typically packed schedule for his five-day visit, despite having spent nine nights in hospital after undergoing hernia surgery in June. Francis, the first Latin American pope, is due to make 11 public pronouncements and hold numerous meetings, and on Saturday will visit the shrine of Fatima north of Lisbon. Church organizers expect one million faithful will attend the event's closing mass which will be delivered by the pope on Sunday at a waterside park on the outskirts of Lisbon. Images of the pope were on display on banners across the city as well as on screens on automatic bank machines along with the message: "I am with you". A Lisbon pastry shop is even selling cookies with the image of the smiling pontiff wearing a crucifix. "My goal is to recharge my spiritual battery because sometimes, as young people, we let it run low," Xochilt Cecilia Velis, a 24-year-old from El Salvador, told AFP in central Lisbon. World Youth Day is part of the Vatican's efforts to galvanize young Catholics at a time when secularism and disgust over clerical child sex abuse cause some faithful to abandon the Church. Meeting with abuse victims The gathering comes as the Portuguese Catholic Church is reckoning with its legacy of clerical sexual abuse. A report released in February by an independent commission determined that at least 4,815 children had been abused by clergy members in Portugal since 1950. The inquiry -- similar to audits elsewhere in Europe and the Americas -- concluded that the Church hierarchy "systematically" tried to conceal the abuse. Pope Francis is scheduled to meet privately with abuse victims during his visit but the date of the encounter or other details has not been released. Initially scheduled for August 2022, but postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Lisbon World Youth Day is the 16th international edition of what has become the largest gathering of Catholics worldwide. Church organizers said there are pilgrims registered to take part in this year's event from every country in the world except the Maldives. A brainchild of the late Pope John Paul II, the event started in 1986. The current one is the fourth presided over by Pope Francis, who became head of the Catholic Church in 2013. The last three events took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2013, in Krakow, Poland in 2016, and in Panama City, Panama in 2019. The post Huge mass in Lisbon ahead of pope’s arrival for ‘Catholic Woodstock’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Catholic Woodstock’ kicks off in Lisbon ahead of Pope arrival
The world's largest Catholic gathering, a week-long religious festival known as World Youth Day, kicks off in Lisbon on Tuesday, a day before Pope Francis arrives on his first foreign trip since recent surgery. Around 300,000 people are expected to attend the opening mass at 7:00 pm (1800 GMT) at the hillside Eduardo VII park, which offers sweeping views of the Portuguese capital and the Tagus river. The 86-year-old pontiff is set to arrive in Lisbon on Wednesday morning to celebrate World Youth Day, a week of religious, cultural and festive events held about every three years in a different city. He has a typically packed schedule for his five-day visit to Portugal, despite having spent nine nights in hospital after undergoing hernia surgery in June. Francis, the first Latin American pope, is due to make 11 public pronouncements and hold numerous meetings, and on Saturday will visit the shrine of Fatima north of Lisbon. Church organizers expect one million faithful will attend the event's closing mass held by the pope on Sunday at a waterside park on the outskirts of Lisbon. Images of the pope were on display on banners set up across the city as well as on screens on automatic bank machines along with the message: "I am with you". A Lisbon pastry shop is even selling cookies with the image of the smiling pontiff wearing a crucifix. "I think it is going to be amazing experience to be in the same spot as the pope," said Barbara Weisz, a 19-year-old student from the United States, part of a group of 37 youths who came from a San Diego parish. "It is a great feeling to be among so many young people who share your beliefs," she added as the group, who wore matching red t-shirts, gathered in the lobby of their hotel before going sightseeing before attending the opening mass. World Youth Day, which has been dubbed the "Catholic Woodstock", is part of the Vatican's efforts to galvanize young Catholics at a time when secularism and disgust over clerical child sex abuse cause some faithful to abandon the Church. In recent days groups of event volunteers, decked out in their distinctive yellow T-shirts, could be seen outside of churches in Lisbon to welcome pilgrims who have flocked to the city. "It is a special moment that you should experience at least once in your life," said Samuel Navarro, a 19-year-old student from Spain. - Meeting with abuse victims - Pope Francis is expected during his visit to meet privately with victims of sexual abuse by members of the Portuguese clergy. A report published in February by an independent commission found at least 4,815 children were sexually abused by clergy members -- mostly priests -- since 1950. The inquiry, based on testimony from over 500 victims, concluded that the Church hierarchy in Portugal "systematically" tried to conceal the abuse. "I know (the meeting) will take place... but I don't know where it will happen or how many people will take part," Lisbon's patriarch, Cardinal Manuel Clemente, told a news conference Monday. "There is a total commitment on the part of the Portuguese Church to settle this issue," he added. Around 16,000 members of law enforcement, civil protection and medical staff are being deployed for the pope's visit, officials said. Initially scheduled for August 2022, but postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Lisbon World Youth Day is the 16th international edition of what has become the largest gathering of Catholics worldwide. The brainchild of late Pope John Paul II, this year's event is the fourth presided over by Pope Francis, who became head of the Catholic Church in 2013. The last three events took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2013, Krakow, Poland in 2016 and Panama City, Panama in 2019. lf-tsc/ds/yad © Agence France-Presse The post ‘Catholic Woodstock’ kicks off in Lisbon ahead of Pope arrival appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
La Salle banners SSL Invitationals cast
Reigning UAAP champion La Salle and NCAA titlist College of St. Benilde headline a stacked cast as the Shakey’s Super League stages the National Invitationals starting tomorrow at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan......»»
‘Succession’ star Cox leads UK actors’ fight against AI
"Succession" star Brian Cox on Friday spearheaded a protest by hundreds of UK actors in support of striking US colleagues walking out over low pay and the "existential threat" posed by artificial intelligence. A-listers Imelda Staunton, Simon Pegg, Hayley Atwell, and Downton Abbey's Jim Carter turned out for the rally in London's Leicester Square, where the premiere of the new "Barbie" film was held last week. Actors chanted "Luvvies united will never be defeated" and waved UK acting union Equity banners in solidarity with the US Screen Actors Guild. Some 160,000 US movie and television actors walked off the job last week, joining writers who have been on strike for weeks. The union's demands have focused on dwindling pay in the streaming era and the threat posed by artificial intelligence. The industrial action is the first US industry-wide walkout for 63 years and has effectively shut down Hollywood. Scottish actor Cox, 77, who stars as media mogul Logan Roy in the HBO hit drama "Succession", told AFP the use of AI in the entertainment industry poses a "really serious" threat that must be halted. "It's the thin end of a horrible wedge... because our image is so strong and they capture those images and they can do what they like with them," he said. "Well, they cannot do what they like with them and they shouldn't be allowed to. We are going to stop it," he added. The last time the US actors union went on strike, in 1980 over the advent of pay television and home video, the walkout lasted more than three months. This time, the union says their pay has been "severely eroded" by streaming and has warned that AI poses "an existential threat". The post ‘Succession’ star Cox leads UK actors’ fight against AI appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Paranada, three more Fil-foreign recruits, link up in UST
Kyle Paranada banners the four Filipino-foreign players coming to the University of Santo Tomas as the Growling Tigers continue to build their squad under head coach Pido Jarencio. Paranada averaged 11.64 points, 4.21 assists, 2.86 rebounds, and 1.64 steals in 23 minutes for UE last year in UAAP Season 85 as the Red Warriors missed the Final Four with a 5-9 win-loss record. He will sit out the upcoming UAAP Season 86 via residency but he will be available for two seasons. Ashon Andrews will play for the Tigers after only playing three games in the preseason with the University of the Philippines. Geremy Robinson Jr., son of former PBA import Geremy Robinson, will try his luck in UST after riding the bench last season at De La Salle University. Robinson Jr. will be eligible for four more playing years in the UAAP. Leland Estacio averaged 3.6 points on 40 percent shooting from three, and 1.6 boards in 11.8 minutes in his sophomore year for West Valley College in Saratoga, California, and will play for UST for two years. Jarencio stressed UST is also gearing up for future seasons, something rival schools like La Salle, UP, and defending champion Ateneo de Manila University have been doing. "This is a preparation for the future and I am happy with the bond they are sharing. This is proof that they believe in the system we want to execute here in UST," Jarencio said. "They're joining the team now so that they can understand the system. Once they play, they'll be ready." This new batch of Tigers will join the likes of Nic Cabañero and SJ Moore as they seek to forget last year's 1-13 record in UAAP Season 85. The post Paranada, three more Fil-foreign recruits, link up in UST appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Acuzar banners house trading expo
Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar will be the main guest at the convergence of real estate practitioners, as the National Real Estate Association holds its three-day housing trade exhibit and mid-year membership meeting this 17 July at the Activity Center, Ayala Malls, Makati City. According to NREA chairperson Imelda Magtoto, One Filipinos Worldwide Partylist Representative Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino, Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay-Campos and Glorietta Malls general manager Sherlene Cruz will also be gracing the gathering. On the other hand, National president Ruth Marie Atienza said the mid-year meeting will honor NREA officers for the successful holding of NREA’s 2023 Chairman’s Cup Golf Tournament held last 30 May at Wack-Wack Golf and Country Club, and NREA’s national convention. Both were held with DHSUD. Among the mid-year meeting awardees are NREA trustee and executive vice president Red Rosales, who served as the overall national convention chairman; adviser and golf tournament co-chairman Bansan Choa; Emie Pulido, treasurer and golf tournament co-chair; Adviser Marcelino C. Mendoza; and the NREA Secretariat — EA Lhane Sta. Juana, Aileen Garlitos, Ma. Lourdes Angeles, Paul Santos and Bernardo Ejada. Moreover, Department of the Interior and Local Government-Bureau of Local Government Development Director Anna Liza Bonagua will also be awarded for her contribution to inviting all the LGUs nationwide to join the NREA national convention. Honorary members and new NREA members will also be inducted during the event. The national convention, held last 1 and 2 June, focused on catalyzing housing sectoral convergence behind the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino or 4PH Program of the Marcos Jr. administration. The 4PH program aims to build one million housing units annually until 2028 to address the country’s housing gap. Earlier, Acuzar expressed his support for Senate Bill 2108, filed by Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, which aims to institutionalize the 4PH Program. The bill provides a mechanism to subsidize amortization and interest for the beneficiaries, with potential buyers. Further, the NREA convention attracted the participation of some 250 delegates, including 15 city/municipal mayors, officer-representatives of local government units (LGUs) from around the country, NREA members nationwide, partner organizations and other professionals. LGUs are the main proponents and implementers of housing projects under 4PH. Also launched during the convention were NREA’s Multi-listing System, a database of realty properties for sale, and a directory/network of NREA real estate brokers and salespersons. The event is supported by OFW Partylist; Chanti Gems; Mapecon Philippines, Inc.; Duraville Realty and Development Corporation; PHirst Park Homes, Inc.; Bria Homes, Inc.; Davies Paint Philippines, Inc.; E. Ganzon, Inc.; and SM Development Corporation. Participating exhibitors/sponsors are Ayala Land, Inc.; Pag-IBIG Fund; Federal Land, Inc.; Security Bank; Surewell Equities, Inc.; Landsquare Marketing & Development Corporation; Hausland Development Corporation/Fiesta Communities; Suntrust Properties, Inc.; Metalyte Builders & Construction Corporation; MatchMo and Center for Pop Music Philippines. The post Acuzar banners house trading expo appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Final salute to Biazon
Muntinlupa Mayor Rufino “Ruffy” Biazon and his family expressed their heartfelt thanks to the public for the outpouring of support and for honoring their father, former senator, congressman and chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Rodolfo “Pong” Biazon. The former senator passed away on 12 June at the age of 88. Last Sunday, Biazon’s remains were brought to the Muntinlupa City Hall. As the cortege entered the city, thousands of residents lined the streets, holding up placards and banners lauding and thanking Biazon who served as Muntinlupa’s representative in Congress from 2010 to 2016. The young Biazon said that even if they were in grief, “life goes on. There are things that we need to do. We, including Trina (his wife), are grateful for the outpouring of support from Muntinlupeños.” He added: “My papa, father, general, senator, congressman was loved by Muntinlupenos.” Yesterday, Biazon’s remains were brought to the Senate for a necrological service at 10 a.m. Previous colleagues from the Senate and the Armed Forces of the Philippines had nothing but praises for the late former senator and military chief of staff. Humble beginnings In his eulogy, former Senate President Vicente Sotto III recalled Baizon’s humble beginnings that turned him into a “fearless legislator and well-decorated military officer attributable to his hard work, perseverance and fighting for what is right.” “Adversity did not hinder him from climbing both politically and militarily as a leader, so to speak,” Sotto said. Sotto praised Biazon for advancing his advocacies of low-cost housing and benefits for soldiers, while making sure that all sectors of society benefited from the bills he crafted. “He was a truly dynamic and multi-faceted individual, a family man and excellent soldier, an extraordinary legislator, freedom fighter and defender of democracy who relished his life to the fullest and, above all, his accomplishments. He will be most remembered as a good father, a loving husband and a dear friend,” Sotto said. Former Senator Jose Lina Jr. described Biazon as an excellent and outstanding Filipino, a warrior and a statesman as well as a devoted public servant “whose integrity and compassion for the people are indeed worth emulating.” “All throughout his life, in the service of the Filipino people, Pong was the epitome of humility, simplicity and decorum,” Lina said, adding that Biazon had the “compassion, understanding and pleasing traits of an exemplary public servant to be able to connect more effectively to the people.” Former Senator Gregorio Honasan II paid his respects to Biazon, remembering his unwavering dedication to public service. “Manong Pong walked the talk and showed by living example that an ordinary, imperfect man — together, I underscore the word together — dreamed, prayed, worked hard, and sacrificed to build a strong sovereign nation for the next generation. They all become heroes,” Honasan said. Former Senate President Franklin Drilon bade farewell to his ex-colleague and good friend. Drilon called Biazon’s career an inspiration, saying: “No one can question his capabilities and his dedication to public service and loyalty to the country.” “He was fearless and undaunted even in the face of death,” Drilon said. “Every little thing that could erode his beloved Philippines was worth his time to bring to the Senate floor.” During the necrological service, Senators Robin Padilla, Francis Tolentino, Loren Legarda, Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva also delivered eulogies. This was followed by a public viewing of Biazon’s remains until 1 p.m. Biazon, a native of Batac, Ilocos Norte, entered the Philippine Military Academy as a cadet at 21 and served in the military for three and a half decades. He then became the 21st AFP chief of staff serving from 24 January to 12 April 1991, the only Marine to attain the position. Prior to this, Biazon served as AFP vice chief of staff, commanding general of AFP-NCR Defense Command, and commandant of the Marine Corps. From the Senate, his remains were taken to the Holy Child Chapel at Philippine Marines headquarters in Taguig City. He will be interred at the Libingan ng mga Bayani on 20 June. The post Final salute to Biazon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Jordan crown prince weds Saudi architect in lavish ceremony
Jordan's Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah married Saudi architect Rajwa Al Seif on Thursday in a ceremony attended by royals from across the globe. The ceremony was held in the mid-century Zahran Palace in the capital Amman -- the site of other key royal weddings including that of King Abdullah II to Queen Rania as well as that of his father, the late King Hussein bin Talal. The king's eldest son and Al Seif, both aged 28, tied the knot at a ceremony attended by their families and 140 guests, including US First Lady Jill Biden and the Prince and Princess of Wales. Other notables included the Netherlands' King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, as well as Belgium's King Philippe and Crown Princess Elisabeth and Danish Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary. The highly anticipated nuptials were met by celebrations across Jordan, with thousands gathering to witness the procession in Amman in streets decorated with pictures of the couple and banners. A royal red motorcade, reserved for special occasions, crossed the capital to celebrate the bride and groom. King Abdullah II, aged 61 and on the throne since 1999, has long groomed his eldest son to succeed him, bringing him along to important visits and meetings, former information minister Samih Maaytah previously told AFP. Prince Hussein became heir to the throne in 2009 after his father removed the title from his half-brother Hamzah in 2004. Hamzah would later be placed under house arrest after being accused of attempting a royal coup in 2021 that sent shockwaves through the royal establishment. In April 2022, Hamzah renounced his royal title, saying his own values no longer aligned with those of "our institutions". Jordan enjoys relative stability compared to its Middle East neighbors but has seen protests in recent years as it struggles with economic woes. The World Bank says Jordan is heavily in debt and faces around 23 percent unemployment. The Hashemite kingdom relies extensively on foreign aid. The Jordanian king has wide-ranging political powers in the country of 11 million people, a parliamentary monarchy, and also acts as the supreme leader of the armed forces. Hussein followed in his father's footsteps by attending Britain's Sandhurst Military College and then studying history at Washington's Georgetown University. His bride was born and raised in conservative Saudi Arabia but is also Western-educated, having studied architecture at Syracuse University in New York. See more photos here: The post Jordan crown prince weds Saudi architect in lavish ceremony appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»