Army reservist chosen to compete in Miss Supranational in Poland
Dindi Pajares, one of three aspirants from the province of Bataan, was crowned Miss Supranational Philippines 2021 ahead of the final show on August 8......»»
FIBA World Cup experience: Springboard to greater heights
Congratulations are in order for the whole Gilas Pilipinas Team for their monumental win versus China (96-75), ending our FIBA World Cup 2023 campaign on a hopeful note. I have always believed in the capabilities of our athletes who have shown their mettle in international sports competitions. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am rallying all Filipinos to support our long-term roadmap to elevate the standing of our athletes in the global arena in all sporting events. Filipinos have excelled in the global stage not just in basketball, billiards, or boxing which are relatively the more popular sports in the country. Take for example Carlos Yulo in gymnastics, EJ Obiena in pole vaulting, Hidilyn Diaz in weightlifting, the late Lydia de Vega in track and field, and, of course, the Filipinas Football team who made us proud during the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup. Our very own Alex Eala is also a rising star in the world of tennis. We have many talented athletes, and we should support them in their quest to give honor to the country. However, success in any sporting event does not come easily. Any athlete will tell you that sports entails discipline, many hours of hard work, and even years of sacrifices. Hence, our efforts to strengthen our chances on the global stage must start at the grassroots level. This is the rationale behind RA 11470 or the National Academy of Sports or NAS law, which I authored and co-sponsored, and signed into law by former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2020. The NAS System will provide scholarships to qualified student-athletes from all regions and will allow them to balance academics and sports training by utilizing the state-of-the-art facilities at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. I am also advocating the approval of Senate Bill No. 423 or the Philippine National Games or PNG Act, to institutionalize the conduct of the PNG every two years as this will allow us to discover those with athletic potential at the grassroots level. We have talented athletes, but the government must invest in providing them with opportunities to compete if we want to produce champions on both the national and international stages. I am pushing for SBN 2116, which will amend Section 8 of RA 10699 or the “National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act.” This will increase the incentives for para-athletes who will win medals in international competitions and make our approach more inclusive to all athletes regardless of their physical limitations. Our efforts to achieve victory in sports must reflect the diversity of our country. The government, together with the private sector and other stakeholders, must consistently provide all the support that our teams need to compete at the global level. Our focus must be on creating opportunities for all aspiring athletes, regardless of geographic or economic background, to excel in their chosen fields. Hence, we should bring our sports development programs closer to those who have the potentials and aspirations to represent our country and bring pride to every Filipino. More importantly, sports is not only a physical game but a means to uplift lives, keep our youth away from vices like illegal drugs, and strengthen camaraderie in our communities. Let us elevate sports as a viable tool in harnessing our citizens into disciplined, productive and patriotic individuals reflective of our Filipino pride. In the same way that we unite to support our athletes, let us also unite to support fellow Filipinos in need. That is why I have continued to engage with various sectors of society to listen to their concerns and help provide solutions to their daily struggles. Filipinos inherently have a “never say die” attitude, especially in sports which is reflective of our resilience as a society. But aside from this commendable trait, our resilience also stems from our inherent compassion for each other. Our “Tapang at Malasakit” must continue so that together, we can uplift the lives of Filipinos. As a Senator and public servant, I remain steadfast in supporting our athletes to reach greater heights while also exerting efforts to help bring government programs and services closer to those in need to provide them with opportunities for a better life. The post FIBA World Cup experience: Springboard to greater heights appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Metrobank rewards 10 outstanding Pinoys P1-M each
Ten Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos, comprised of four teachers, three soldiers, and three police officers, are recognized for going beyond their duty and making a difference in the community. Recipients of this year’s career-service award for Filipino exemplars in the academe, military, and police sectors were presented to the public on Thursday, 3 August. Each of them will receive a cash prize of P1 million each (net of tax), a golden medallion, and “The Flame” trophy in a conferment ceremony on 29 August, ahead of the Metrobank’s anniversary celebration in September. Outstanding Filipinos embody the true meaning of “Beyond Excellence” as they go the extra mile in their chosen profession and selflessly extend a helping hand to those in need through their various service and community involvements while overcoming adversities and challenges. Bagging the 2023 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Award for Teachers are (1) Mr. Rex M. Sario, MAT, Master Teacher I/Teacher-in-Charge of Balogo Elementary School (Pangantucan, Bukidnon); (2) June Elias V. Patalinghug, EdD, Master Teacher II, Catalunan Grande Elementary School (Davao City); (3) Edgar R. Durana, MAEd, Master Teacher I/SPED Coordinator, Don Jose Ynares Memorial National High School (Binangonan, Rizal); and (4) Jovelyn G. Delosa, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Northern Bukidnon State College (Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon). To be conferred with the 2023 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Award for Soldiers are (5) Staff Sergeant Danilo S. Banquiao PA, Civil-Military Officer — Non-Commissioned Officer, 103rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army (Marawi City, Lanao del Sur); (6) Lieutenant Colonel Joseph J. Bitancur PAF, Assistant Commandant, Basic Military School, Air Education, Training, and Doctrine Command, Philippine Air Force (Lipa City, Batangas); and (7) Colonel Joseph Jeremias Cirilo C. Dator PA, Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations (G3), Presidential Security Group (City of Manila) (formerly Commanding Officer, 10th Military Intelligence Battalion, 10th Infantry Division in Mawab, Davao de Oro). Meanwhile, recipients of the 2023 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Award for Police Officers are (8) Police Chief Master Sergeant Dennis D. Bendo, Section Team Leader, District Mobile Force Battalion, Manila Police District (City of Manila); (9) Police Major Mae Ann R. Cunanan, Chief, Police Community Relations, Criminal Investigation, and Detection Group, Camp Crame (Quezon City) (formerly Chief, Case Monitoring Section, Regional Investigation and Detection Management Division, PRO 9 in Zamboanga City); and (10) Police Colonel Renell R. Sabaldica, Chief, Morale and Welfare Division, Directorate for Personnel and Records Management, Camp Crame (Quezon City) (formerly Provincial Director of Cagayan Police Provincial Office in Tuguegarao City). “Outstanding Filipinos inspire us to go beyond excellence and pursue a mission that is bigger than ourselves. This year’s batch proved to us how the competence of Filipinos combined with character and compassion can positively impact other people’s lives,” said Metrobank Foundation president Aniceto M. Sobrepeña. “Educators, peacekeepers, and defenders have chosen to render selfless service to the community and the country despite many adversities. We hope their examples and contributions to society create a ripple effect transcending generations,” he added. The post Metrobank rewards 10 outstanding Pinoys P1-M each appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Compete with integrity, BBM tells Palaro athletes
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday called on the athletes, coaches, and trainers of the 2023 Palarong Pambansa to compete with excellence, fairness and integrity. “As you take part in your chosen sport, remember you are already champions, and now you represent your respective schools and localities,” Marcos said in his speech during the 2023 Palarong Pambansa opening ceremony. “Compete with excellence, fairness, and integrity. It is also my hope that you will enjoy every moment of this competition and make memories during this competition that you will keep close to your heart for the rest of your life,” Marcos said. Marcos also welcomed the coaches, trainers, and support staff who are helping the athletes prepare for the games. He assured them of the government’s continued support for sports development. “This administration believes in the transformative power of sports, not only in improving one’s strength and agility but also in building up character and discipline,” Marcos said. The Chief Executive also urged the Department of Education to keep harnessing the talents and sportsmanship of Filipino student-athletes. The President also called on local government units to encourage school participation in sports competitions, adding they can help students learn discipline, resilience and teamwork. “You serve as exemplars of excellence, integrity, and sportsmanship by showing your peers and your fellow Filipinos the result of your discipline, your training, your hard work, and the many sacrifices you had to make to make it here today,” the Chief Executive said. Marcos concluded his speech by inviting all Filipinos to watch the games and cheer for their favorite teams. He said that many of the participants will one day compete in international competitions. The 2023 Palarong Pambansa is being held in Marikina City, the “Shoe Capital of the Philippines,” from 29 July to 5 August. The games feature over 9,000 student-athletes, coaches, and officials across the Philippines. The post Compete with integrity, BBM tells Palaro athletes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM to Palaro athletes: ‘Compete with excellence, fairness, integrity’
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on the athletes, coaches, and trainers of the 2023 Palarong Pambansa to compete with excellence, fairness, and integrity in his speech during the annual sports meet's opening ceremony. "As you take part in your chosen sport, remember you are already champions, and now you represent your respective schools and localities," Marcos said. "Compete with excellence, fairness, and integrity. It is also my hope that you will enjoy every moment in this competition and make memories during this competition that you will keep close to your heart for the rest of your life," he added. Marcos also welcomed the coaches, trainers and support staff who are helping the athletes prepare for the games. He assured them of the government's continued support for sports development. "This administration believes in the transformative power of sports, not only in improving one's strength and agility, but also in building up character and discipline," Marcos said. The Chief Executive also urged the Department of Education to keep harnessing the talents and sportsmanship of the Filipino student-athletes. "Continue to leverage your reach and resources to provide them with the support, training and opportunities that they thrive on and on which they will succeed," Marcos said. Marcos also called on the local government units to encourage school participation in sports competitions. He said that sports can help students learn the importance of discipline, resilience and teamwork. "You serve as exemplars of excellence, integrity and sportsmanship by showing your peers and your fellow Filipinos the result of your discipline, your training, your hard work and the many sacrifices you had to make to make it here today," the Chief Executive said. Marcos concluded his speech by inviting all Filipinos to watch the games and cheer for their favorite teams. He said that he is confident that many of the participants will one day be competing in international competitions. "I'm certain many of our participants here one day, we will be watching in international competitions, as we have become a force in terms of international sports and these kinds of events," Marcos said. The 2023 Palarong Pambansa is being held in Marikina City, the "Shoe Capital of the Philippines," from 29 July to 5 August. The games feature over 9,000 student-athletes, coaches and officials from all over the Philippines. The post PBBM to Palaro athletes: ‘Compete with excellence, fairness, integrity’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Chosen son: Cambodia’s next PM Hun Manet to succeed father
Hun Manet has an economics degree from England and graduated from US military academy West Point, but there are few expectations he will uphold Western liberal ideals when he succeeds his father as Cambodia's prime minister. Groomed for years, the eldest son of Cambodia's iron-fisted ruler will take over next month in a dynastic transfer long in the making, which sees Hun Manet move from the premier's bodyguard unit to the seat of power in the capital Phnom Penh. After nearly four decades as Cambodian leader, Hun Sen on Wednesday announced his resignation in a televised speech, three days after claiming a landslide victory in a one-sided election that the ruling party was guaranteed to win after having silenced all viable opposition. Hun Manet, already a member of the ruling Cambodian People's Party's powerful permanent committee, has served as commander of the Royal Cambodian Army since 2018. Born on October 20, 1977, the princeling graduated from West Point in 1999 and has more recently met world leaders including President Xi Jinping of China -- Cambodia's main ally and benefactor. But the 45-year-old four-star general only contested a parliamentary seat for the first time in Sunday's election, a poll he has insisted was legitimate, while Western powers criticized it as neither free nor fair. 'After Hun Sen' While Hun Sen, one of the world's longest-serving rulers, has trailed the handover to his son for a year and a half, he has also made it clear that he intends to wield influence after he steps down, scotching the notion the country could change direction when Hun Manet assumes power. While Hun Sen's politics are shaped by his experiences of revolution and war as a young man during the genocidal Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s, his son was raised in luxury and educated abroad. Hun Manet holds a PhD in economics from the University of Bristol in Britain, and was the first Cambodian to graduate from the prestigious US military academy. He has also served in leadership roles in the ruling CPP's youth movement, his father's bodyguard unit and the counterterrorism special forces. But a Western education is no guarantee of a more liberal approach, exiled politician Sam Rainsy, a longstanding foe of Hun Sen, told AFP this month -- pointing to Syria's brutal Assad dynasty. "Syria's Bashar al-Assad is more educated than Hafez al-Assad, but the son is politically worse than the father," he said. Sebastian Strangio, author of a book about Hun Sen's rule, told AFP that so far Hun Manet had shown "little evidence that he will introduce anything more than cosmetic reforms to the current political system". Without his father's backing, it is not clear Hun Manet would be able to make changes even if he wanted to. He remains untested in the political arena, analyst Ou Virak told AFP this month. "The problem is he's been spoon-fed, mostly with a golden spoon," Ou Virak said. Married with two daughters and a son, Hun Manet will assume the role of prime minister on 22 August. The post Chosen son: Cambodia’s next PM Hun Manet to succeed father appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Prigozhin Circus comes to town
There are those who rise to the occasion in high-stakes geopolitics, displaying strategic brilliance and unwavering determination. Then there are those, such as Yevgeny Prigozhin and his longtime friend Vladimir Putin, who stumble through their power plays like bumbling neighborhood bullies caught off guard. The recent “mutiny” of Prigozhin’s Wagner mercenary group against Putin is a farce, a feeble attempt to save face as Russia and Wagner crumble under the weight of their failed war against Ukraine. To be honest, expecting Prigozhin, the opportunistic chameleon, to lead a genuine revolt against his fellow mobster Putin would be naivete. Prigozhin, who was once known for his culinary skills, has ditched his caterer’s hat in favor of a toy soldier’s beret, believing himself to be a military strategist. Nonetheless, his track record on the sidelines of previous and current Putin wars reveals nothing but incompetence and self-interest. That “mutiny” is nothing more than Prigozhin running away from Ukraine with his tail tucked between his legs. And the funny thing is that Putin lapped it all up from his former quasi-butler. While Prigozhin’s threat to depose Putin was clearly a bluff, the fact that Putin overreacted and declared virtual martial law in Russia indicates that the once-astute leader has lost touch with reality. Ukraine, under President Volodymyr Zelensky, has dealt Putin and his cronies one crushing defeat after another on the battlefield. Putin’s vulnerability is exposed, and his overreaction reveals a panic within the Kremlin’s walls. Everything considered, the Putin-Prigozhin intramural only serves to highlight the absurdity of these two clowns and vindicates the countries that are supporting Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression, including NATO and European Union members. They’ve recognized the bluster and bravado of these neighborhood bullies and have wisely chosen to provide Ukraine with weapons, training, and other assistance. For students of history, the recent events in Russia bring to mind Winston Churchill’s famous quote, “Russia is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.” Churchill delivered that statement on 1 October 1939 on the radio on whether then-Soviet Russia would join World War 2, which had just broken out. The UK Prime Minister was, of course, referring to the Soviet Union’s unpredictable and often contradictory foreign policy, while suggesting that the Soviet Union’s actions were ultimately motivated by its own national interests, rather than by any ideological or moral principles. Churchill would be proven right, as the Soviet Union would only join the last global war on 22 June 1941 — only after Nazi Germany invaded and used the Molotov-Ribbentrop non-aggression pact between them to wipe the Führer’s backside. But enough digression. The riddle has been solved with Putin and Prigozhin: They’re simply jokesters, stumbling and fumbling their way through their own follies. It’s no surprise that the rest of the world is simultaneously amused and perplexed by their antics. Prigozhin’s dramatic exit from Russia without being charged adds another twist to this tragicomedy. His forces took control of a key army headquarters, threatened the capital, and then abruptly reversed course to purportedly avoid bloodshed in Moscow. Residents were cheering and chanting “Wagner! Wagner!” outside the military headquarters they had captured, demonstrating the absurdity of the situation. While publicly remaining neutral, the United States and its allies are acutely aware of the potential consequences of this Barnum and Bailey show. President Joe Biden’s meetings with the leaders of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom highlight concerns that Putin’s grip on the nuclear-armed country is slipping. Russia’s foreign ministry, on the other hand, had issued a stern warning to the US and its allies, claiming that the rebellion plays into the hands of Russia’s external enemies. Whatever. Amid all this, Ukraine is reveling in the chaos that has engulfed its long-time adversary amid this political theater. According to President Zelensky’s aide, Prigozhin humiliated Putin and demonstrated that, in Russia, “there is no longer a monopoly on violence.” Ukraine is now seeing a golden opportunity to ratchet up its counter-offensive against Russian invaders, buoyed by the vulnerabilities exposed within the Russian regime. Zelensky had been mocked as a B-movie actor playing the role of a President. Okay, that’s a matter of opinion. There’s no debate, though, of Putin and his “frenemy” Prigozhin being pathetic comedians whose jokes are flat and are on them. Still, we’re all captive audiences in this Putin-Prigozhin sitcom. The post Prigozhin Circus comes to town appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Miss Manila 2023 candidates showcased
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna led the sashing of 22 young women who have been chosen as candidates for the search for Miss Manila 2023 held at the Manila City Hall and were organized by the city’s Tourism department headed by Charlie Dungo. According to the mayor, the candidates underwent a face-to-face interview before the board of judges came up with its final, official list of candidates. They were presented and donned with sashes on Monday, 15 May. “All our lovely girls underwent the pre-qualification process and were selected according to their submitted credentials and video footages,” Lacuna said. “We are all excited to see you girls compete.” The pageant is part of the celebration of the city’s forthcoming 452nd founding anniversary on 24 June. “I hope you will enjoy your journey in this pageant. This is your opportunity to hone and shine in your inner and outer character as the woman of the future,” she added. Lacuna thanked all those who joined and helped mount and revive the said project, which was halted due to the 2020 pandemic. The pageant is part of the celebration of the city’s forthcoming 452nd founding anniversary on 24 June and Dungo said the coronation night will be held on 23 June at the Metropolitan Theater and the candidates represent various major areas in the city’s six districts. The candidates will compete in a series of events, including a talent competition, a swimsuit competition, and an evening gown competition. The winner of Miss Manila 2023 will represent the city in the Miss Philippines pageant. The post Miss Manila 2023 candidates showcased appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Good things come with babies’
Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the 36-year-old leader of the main opposition Pheu Thai party, was given a rock star welcome as she returned to the campaign trail for the first time since giving birth less than two weeks ago. The daughter of billionaire ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra fulfilled a promise to get back on the campaign trail after giving birth on 1 May. Paetongtarn has been first or second in surveys of voters’ preferred choice of prime minister and her Pheu Thai party — the latest incarnation of the political movement founded by her father — is leading most opinion polls. “I believe that good things come with babies, so this is a blessing for my family,” she told reporters at Bangkok’s Praram 9 hospital on 3 May. A heavily pregnant Paetongtarn was a near-constant presence at campaign rallies in searing tropical heat until just a week before giving birth. The baby, named Prutthasin Sooksawas and nicknamed “Thasin” in honor of her father, is Paetongtarn’s second. Napisa Waitoolkiat, a political analyst at Naresuan University, said the pregnancy and birth might help win over swing voters. Emilie Pradichit, of feminist human rights organization Manushya, said she had sent out a strong message in a patriarchal society. “By actively participating in the electoral process, while also sharing about her pregnancy, she is breaking barriers, Pradichit told Agence France-Presse. “It challenges the notion that pregnancy and motherhood are incompatible with political careers.” Voters are predicted to deliver a heavy defeat to the government of former army chief and coup leader Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha, with Pheu Thai and the rival opposition Move Forward Party leading the final polls. Paetongtarn, the daughter of billionaire ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra — himself ousted in a coup — arrived to an electric atmosphere at Bangkok’s Impact arena. “May 14 will be a historic day where Thailand will change from a junta rule to a democratic rule,” she told around 10,000 supporters clad in Pheu Thai’s signature vivid scarlet colors. Sunday’s election is a clash between the opposition, fired up by the youth-led pro-democracy street protest movement of 2020, and the older conservative royalist-military establishment embodied by Prayut. Pheu Thai, which draws on a deep well of support from rural voters in the northeast, is well ahead in the polls, but winning most seats in the lower house is no guarantee of taking power. The prime minister will be chosen by the 500 elected members of parliament and 250-strong senate — whose members were appointed by Prayut’s junta, stacking the deck in favor of army-linked parties. The Shinawatra family’s bitter tussle with the royalist-military establishment has been at the center of Thailand’s rolling political drama. Thaksin was removed in a 2006 coup, and his sister Yingluck Shinawatra by Prayut’s putsch in 2014, and some analysts are skeptical that the military will release its grip on power now. The post ‘Good things come with babies’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
24 Asian trans women compete in Slay model hunt
Twenty-four transgender women from all around Asia are set to compete tomorrow in the finale night of Slay Model Search Asia. The chosen winner will secure a contract from the “first and only trans exclusive” modeling agency in the world......»»
PBBM to Pinoy athletes: ‘We are all rooting for you’
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. expressed his best wishes to Filipino athletes on Monday as they compete in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia next month. The Chief Executive made the remarks during the send-off program for Team Philippines at the Philippine International Convention Center as he hailed the Filipino athletes for the "honor and glory" they have bring to the country. During the speech, Marcos assured the Filipino athletes of the country's support to them in their stint at the biennial meet in Cambodia. Marcos added Filipino athletes are the country's "ambassadors in sports" who play a "very important part beyond their participation" in critical sporting events “It’s a pleasure to be with (the athletes),” Marcos said. “If this administration can do anything more to support your chosen events, you please make sure to tell me. Because we are all rooting for you to be successful,” Marcos added. Marcos also called on the Filipino athletes to always listen to the cheers of their fellow compatriots in everything they do, adding that that the countrymen's hopes, dreams and aspirations ride with the Filipino athletes. More than 900 athletes competing in 38 games and 257 officials from the Philippines are set to participate in the biennial meet scheduled from 5 May to 17 May. During the previous year's edition of the event held in Hanoi, Vietnam, the Philippines secured a total of 227 medals, comprising 52 gold, 70 silver and 105 bronze. With 656 athletes competing across 38 sports, the country finished fourth overall in the medal tally. The post PBBM to Pinoy athletes: ‘We are all rooting for you’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Incoming AFP chief well-versed in Chinese incursions in WPS
President Rodrigo Duterte has chosen Army commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana as the next chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to succeed General Gilbert Gapay, Malacanang said......»»
Four champion martial artists who are also champion dads
Father’s Day comes but once a year, and is a time to celebrate the incredible patriarchs in our lives who have guided us through our toughest challenges. They are the foundation of every family, working tirelessly through day and night to make sure the people they love are happy and safe. This Father’s Day, let’s honor the men in our lives who embody strength, discipline, and loyalty. Great fathers provide their children with a feeling of security, both physically and emotionally, but aren’t afraid to let them stumble and fall in order for them to learn the lessons they need to make it through life. These four men have given their children the gift of martial arts, but more importantly have also proven to be amazing dads. Ken Lee Brazilian jiu-jitsu and taekwondo black belt, Ken Lee, introduced martial arts to his children at a young age because he believes it can help develop them into great fighters, not just in competition, but also in life. Together with his wife Jewelz -- also a champion martial artist -- they’ve raised four incredible children, including reigning ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion Angela Lee, and ONE Lightweight World Champion Christian Lee. Their two youngest children, Adrian and Victoria, are both on their way to following in their footsteps. Needless to say, martial arts is the family tradition. “Martial arts has always been a way of life for my family,” said Lee. But as much as he is the powerful voice in each of his children’s corners whenever they compete, Lee takes pride in being their father first and foremost. Guiding their careers, he says, is only his second priority. “I will always be their father first and coach second. As a father, the most important thing for me when it comes to my children is their safety and good health, that they are happy and able to live their dreams,” said Lee. Mark Sangiao Filipino martial arts icon Mark “The Machine” Sangiao is a well-known pioneer in the Philippines’ local martial arts community. He is a loving father to two boys, and a father-figure to his students in the famed Team Lakay. Many seek Sangiao out for his wisdom, not just in competing at the highest levels of martial arts, but also for his experience in traversing the hardships of life. The principles he imparts on his two sons, and many young Team Lakay athletes who could very well be considered his own children, have helped guide them down the right path. “As a father, what matters most for me when it comes to my children is providing them what they need,” said Sangiao. “I’m not just referring to their material or financial needs, but most importantly giving enough attention to their emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being. It is essential that I can provide these to my children, because these are the very core of their development and formation as good and responsible people.” Sangiao has cultivated and developed many world champions, including former titleholders Eduard Folayang, Honorio Banario, Geje Eustaquio, and Kevin Belingon, as well as ONE Strawweight World Champion Joshua Pacio. While his eldest son Jhanlo has decided to take after his father in becoming a martial artist, Sangiao says he would support his children regardless of their chosen profession. “I may end up raising a martial artist, a gardener, a businessman, a lawyer -- it doesn’t matter. I will raise them the exact same way. I will support whatever they want to be in life, and what they want for their future. I just want to raise my children to be good, strong, and responsible people,” said Sangiao. Eduard Folayang For two-time former ONE Lightweight World Champion and Team Lakay veteran Eduard “Landslide” Folayang, being a father means imparting his wisdom to his children, and helping them become good members of society. Folayang is a proud father to two young girls, and hopes to instill in them the right values and principles. “I think we have to give our children the right principles to live by. They must be strong in both the body and the mind, but also kind and generous,” said Folayang. While he will support his children no matter what they decide to do when they get older, Folayang still plans on introducing them to martial arts, which is what helped turn his life around as a young man raised in hardship and poverty. “Being a father feels great. I do want my children to practice martial arts. It’s a great way of life and will teach them a lot of lessons. I just want them to find their own talents and help make the world a better place,” said Folayang. Danny Kingad Former ONE World Title challenger and ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix Championship Finalist Danny “The King” Kingad is relatively new to fatherhood, with his son Gleurdan Adrian becoming his pride and joy after being born just two years ago. Being a father, Kingad says, is his single greatest purpose, and he vows to do everything in his power to give his son a good life. “I want to spend every day with my son. It’s important to me to be there for him. I want to help prepare him for the challenges life will bring,” said Kingad. Kingad grew up a troubled youth who fell into bad company and many vices. It wasn’t until he discovered martial arts that his life gained meaning and direction. He hopes to one day introduce martial arts to Gleurdan, when his son is ready. “Martial arts was a saving grace for me, and I learned a lot from training and competing. I would love for my son to learn the core values that martial arts instilled in me when I was younger. I think it will teach him a lot about respect and honor. But of course, I’m here to support my son in whatever he wants to be in life,” said Kingad. “What’s important to me is that he learns to be humble and respectful, and most especially strong, to be able to handle tough times. Having a strong mind is the best asset of a martial artist.”.....»»
Ross hoping for another Gilas tour of duty
San Miguel Beer guard Chris Ross is more than willing to lend his services one more time for Gilas Pilipinas if given the chance. Speaking on the Athletes’ Tribune podcast, Ross said that he’s ready for another tour of duty in the Southeast Asian Games next year in Vietnam. “I’m only eligible for SEA Games and Asian Games those are the two (tournaments) they told me I’m eligible for. I’m 35 now but if they do pick me I’ll be ready,” said the Fil-American. The eight-time PBA champion realized his dream of donning the national colors last year when he helped Gilas Pilipinas cop the gold medal last year in the Manila edition of the biennial meet. It was an opportunity of a lifetime for Ross, who had difficulty landing a spot in team before mostly due to him not having PHI passport by the age of 16, when Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas decided to field an all-pro team. Although things are still uncertain if SBP will again send an all-pro team, an amateur squad or a selection of both to the SEA Games, which will be held November next year, Ross is confident that if chosen he can still bring the same energy and passion he gave in his first national team stint. “I mean, I take care of my body. I can go out there and run around with whoever you put in front of me or whoever I need to compete with. I’m confident in myself in that way,” he said. “But whoever they choose… I think Tab (Baldwin) is the head of Gilas right now. He’s a really smart basketball mind too. I’m sure he’ll pick the guys that will work in the slot,” Ross added. “If they end up do picking me or if they do pick me, if they want me to be around the team, I’ll be more than happy to lend my services and try to compete.” In his SEA Games stint, Ross didn’t need to score much in a stacked Gilas lineup but still contributed with 7.6 assists, 5.2 rebounds and 1.4 steals. --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @fromtheriles.....»»
Progressive : Arlene Damot on embracing married women, all ages in Miss Universe
Mrs. Universe 2023 2nd runner-up Arlene Damot sees the Miss Universe Organization's decision to lift the age requirement and welcome married women as a progressive move......»»
S& P: Philippines may miss growth goal this year
S&P Global Ratings sees the Philippines again missing its growth targets this year as it kept its gross domestic product growth forecast at 5.9 percent. While the projection is better compared to other economies in the region, it is again below the government’s 6.5 to 7.5 percent growth target......»»
Opinion - South China Sea- Philippines must softly manage disputes or miss out economically
Manilas assertive transparency strategy is touted as a model for managing maritime disputes but it diminishes key economic opportunities. As Chinese investment pours into other Southeast Asian countries, the Philippines must reduce geopolitical risks without acquiescing to Beijing......»»
Miss Universe Philippines releases statement condemning cyberbullying of delegates
The Miss Universe Philippines organization released a statement condemning the act of cyberbullying in all its forms......»»
Dingdong may bagong na-achieve bilang sundalo ng Philippine Navy
IBINANDERA ng Kapuso Primetime King at Box-Office King na si Dingdong Dantes ang pinaka-latest achievement na kanyang nakamit. Matapos sumabak sa isang matinding military training para sa pagiging reservist ng Philippine Navy, isa na rin siya ngayong certified naval combat engineering officer. Baka Bet Mo: Sharon ipinakilala ang isa pang ‘anak’ sa US: Napakaguwapo, iyan.....»»
Pia binasag nga ba si Heart sa ‘worth ng kababaihan’ campaign?
MAY “silent war” nga ba sina 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach at Kapuso international fashion icon na si Heart Evangelista? Yan ang nakakaintrigang tanong ng mga netizens nang mapansin nilang tila sinagot ni Pia ang lumang Instagram post ni Heart noong January, 2024. Usap-usapan ngayon ng mga Marites ang matapang na statement ni Pia para.....»»
Philippines declares 'strategic defeat' of NPA rebels
MANILA, March 26 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines declared on Tuesday a "strategic defeat" of the New People's Army (NPA) rebels, who have been fighting against the government since the 1960s, saying there is no more active guerilla fronts in the country. Eduardo Ano, National Security Adviser and former chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, said "thousands" of NPA insurgents have decided to return t.....»»