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Advancing OFWs’ welfare, protecting Filipinos abroad
Overseas Filipino Workers, or OFWs, are indeed modern-day heroes. They help boost our economy, but more importantly, they help uplift the lives of their families to give them a better future and also showcase Filipinos' talents, skills, and work ethic to the world. I was in London, United Kingdom last week for an official trip upon the invitation of the British Group Inter-Parliament Union. Led by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and co-head of delegation Senator Grace Poe, we embarked on several meetings aimed at strengthening relations of the Philippine Senate with our counterparts in the UK parliament to exchange best practices in policymaking while enhancing bilateral relations, fostering economic security, exploring areas of cooperation between the two countries, and promoting the welfare of Filipinos working there. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, I also expressed my gratitude to the UK for donating vaccines during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic. Moreover, we thanked them for other development assistance extended by the UK to the Philippines and for their help in strengthening the Bangsamoro Region. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, I also maximized the visit to highlight efforts in promoting the welfare of more than 200,000 OFWs in the UK, particularly the more or less 40,000 Filipino nurses working there. We were able to raise to the UK policymakers the concerns of Filipino nurses regarding their rights to proper benefits, just compensation, and a safe working environment. We should be proud of Filipino medical frontliners in the UK, particularly nurses who are among the world’s finest. Take, for example, May Parsons, a Filipina-British nurse who became known globally for administering the first COVID-19 vaccine outside of a clinical trial and receiving the UK's George Cross Award. I have co-sponsored a Senate resolution earlier recognizing and commending her achievement. After our official meetings, I met with a group of OFWs, some of them were fellow Dabawenyos, Filipino Muslims, Ilonggos, and Ilocanos, among others. The stories they shared were proof of how resilient our OFWs are. Despite their sacrifices, homesickness, and worries about their families in their hometowns, they maintain their cheerfulness and positive outlook. I brought some good news to our OFWs by informing them about the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) through Republic Act No. 11641, a legislation for which I am proud to be one of the authors and co-sponsors in the Senate. This measure streamlines the organization and functions of all government agencies related to overseas employment and migration to better address the needs and concerns of migrant workers. I have also filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2297 to institutionalize the OFW Hospital and ensure its continuous operation in San Fernando City, Pampanga, primarily intended for OFWs and eligible dependents. More importantly, a Malasakit Center is operational there to help reduce their out-of-pocket expenses. The establishment of the DMW, the OFW Hospital, and its own Malasakit Center are just a few of our dreams that are now realities for Filipinos to benefit from. These are testaments of our commitment to promote the welfare of migrant workers and their dependents. However, we acknowledge that there is more work to be done. That is why we continue to listen to their concerns, serve them to the best of our abilities, and pursue initiatives to further their cause. I have also filed SBN 2414, which seeks to establish OFW wards in Department of Health (DOH) hospitals if enacted into law. While our efforts continue to safeguard the welfare of Filipinos abroad, our commitment to serve Filipinos facing challenges in their communities remains unwavering. This week, we had groundbreaking ceremonies for Super Health Centers in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte; Brgy. Labangon in Cebu City; Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur; and in Tigbauan, Iloilo. Through the collective efforts of DOH, LGUs, and fellow lawmakers, we continue to advocate for establishing more community health facilities to help bring public health services closer to those needing medical attention. We have also assisted 1,000 indigents in Llanera, Nueva Ecija, with the office of Cong. Jose Padiernos; 500 members from various sectors in Barangay Mintal, Davao City; 1,900 in Caloocan City, with the office of Congresswoman Mitch Cajayon-Uy. In Cebu City, we also distributed aid to 1,700 residents of the South District with Congressman Edu Rama; 450 in Nagcarlan, Laguna, with Mayor Elmor Vita and Councilor Rey Comendador; and 333 in Pulupandan, Negros Occidental, in collaboration with the Malasakit@Bayanihan group. We also aided 1,000 United Senior Citizens Association members of Quezon City, with Congresswoman Mila Magsaysay, Senator Robin Padilla, and private sector volunteer organizations. My office also extended additional aid to 93 displaced workers in Lumban, Laguna; 210 in Pilar; 217 in Carmen and Batuan in Bohol. DOLE also gave qualified beneficiaries temporary employment. We also supported 200 scholars during their TESDA Orientation in Daet, Camarines Norte. There are also 43 residents of Davao City and nine in La Paz, Agusan del Sur, who were victims of fires and 32 victims of flooding in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat. They were provided separate assistance and the livelihood kits they received through the DTI program, which we advocated for before and continue to support. We also supported 283 victims of past fires in Cagayan de Oro City by giving separate aid in addition to the emergency housing assistance received from the NHA through a program we pushed for so that they could buy materials like nails, roofing, and other necessities for home repairs. My office also provided immediate help to victims of recent fires, such as 50 families in Baseco, Manila City, and 11 families in Brgy. Alabang, Muntinlupa City. No one is exempt from facing life’s hardships. However, our OFWs have shown us how resilient Filipinos can be. Let us learn from them and, more importantly, do our part in uplifting their lives by advocating for their welfare, promoting their rights, protecting their families, and providing the genuine public service they deserve. 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Better sports facilities pushed
As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am saddened by the dilapidated state of the country’s iconic sports facilities. The Philippine Institute of Sports Multi-Purpose Arena, popularly known as PhilSports Arena, has come a long way from the time it was built in 1985 to house the Philippine Basketball Association until the league moved out in 1993 due to the lack of maintenance of the venue. The last time it was renovated was in 2019, when the country hosted the 30th Southeast Asian Games. Among PhilSports Arena’s main facilities are the Multi-purpose Arena, Swimming Center, and Football and Athletic Stadium. While the arena was greatly enjoyed as a sports facility, it also served as a temporary shelter for evacuees after Tropical Storm Ondoy and Typhoon Pepeng struck the Philippines in 2009, adding to the facility's wear and tear. A quick look at the PhilSports Arena and the other sports facilities nationwide should make us realize that we should invest more in rehabilitating our iconic sports facilities. As I have suggested during the budget deliberations in the Senate, prioritizing funding for sports facilities would have been better than putting flood control projects in areas with little to no population. This concern about the support we are providing our athletes has motivated me to author and co-sponsor Republic Act No. 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. In collaboration with the Philippine Sports Commission and the Department of Education, NAS now offers a specialized secondary education program focused on sports where students can study and train simultaneously. I have also filed the Philippine National Games bill, which aims to provide a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development by having a mini Olympics regularly. Providing opportunities to our youth will help develop their potential in sports but will also help keep them away from vices such as illegal drugs. I continue to support establishing sports-related programs and infrastructure to divert the youth from the lure of addiction and criminality. This is also part of my three-pronged approach to combat illegal drugs in the Philippines – law enforcement, rehabilitation, and prevention. Yesterday, I witnessed the Philippine ROTC Games 2023 Luzon Qualifying Leg opening ceremony held at Cavite State University – Indang Campus in Indang, Cavite. With Sen. Francis Tolentino, I encouraged our young cadets who participated in various competitions to get into sports and stay away from drugs. I have also remained faithful to my promise to visit and help our fellow Filipinos in most parts of the country. On 16 September, we attended the groundbreaking of a Super Health Center in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. We also visited the town of Damulog, where I inspected projects I have supported, such as a public market, road concreting project, evacuation center, solar street lights, and a multipurpose building. Later that day, we also attended the 25th Anniversary of Public Safety Basic Recruit Course Class 1998-Alpha at Acacia Hotel in Davao City. On 15 September, we attended a meeting of state universities and colleges leaders held in Davao City and hosted by Commission on Higher Education Chair Prospero de Vera. The night before, we also joined leaders from the CHEd, the University of the Philippines System, and various SUCs to honor the appointment of Atty. Angelo Jimenez, a fellow Mindanaoan, as the 22nd President of the University of the Philippines. We took the opportunity to voice our commitment to elevating the standard of education nationwide. This is also the reason why Republic Act No. 10931, or the Universal Access To Quality Tertiary Education Act, was enacted into law during the time of former president Rodrigo Duterte. Today, we continue to pursue this further as I co-authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1360, which aims to widen the reach of the law further. We visited Bislig City in Surigao del Sur to participate in its 23rd Charter Day festivities. We handed out grocery packages to 32 newlywed couples during a community wedding and inaugurated the country’s 159th Malasakit Center at the Bislig District Hospital. This is the seventh Malasakit Center in the Caraga region and the 40th in Mindanao. Our team also provided direct aid, including grocery packs, to 129 patients and 191 front liners, including security guards, utilities, and hospital staff. On 15 September, my office also attended the groundbreaking of Super Health Centers in New Washington and Malay in the province of Aklan. Meanwhile, we continue to support livelihood programs, especially those that can help people experiencing poverty overcome crises. Through our support, the Department of Trade and Industry provides livelihood kits to qualified beneficiaries affected by calamities and teaches them how to grow their businesses for the benefit of their families. Among those we have helped are 20 from Dipaculao, Aurora; 57 from Sanchez Mira and Abulog, Cagayan; 100 affected by the earthquake in Montevista and New Bataan, and 50 in Nabunturan in Davao de Oro; 196 in Malalag and Sulop, Davao del Sur; 20 in Mangatarem, Pangasinan; 21 victims of Typhoon Egay in Pigcawayan, North Cotabato; 132 shear line victims in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental; and 36 beneficiaries from Lutayan and Columbio, Sultan Kudarat, and General Santos City. We also continue to support the National Housing Authority’s distribution of emergency housing assistance to disaster victims so they can purchase roofing, nails, and other home repair materials. We assisted beneficiaries, including 85 fire victims in Imus City, Cavite. Meanwhile, my office helped the 65 fire victims in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. We also provided assistance to 75 TESDA graduates in Victorias City, Negros Occidental. We also distributed additional support to workers who lost their jobs, beneficiaries of the TUPAD program of the Department of Labor and Employment, including 413 in Talibon, Bohol, and 150 in Plaridel, Bulacan. We also aided 333 poor residents in Paluan, Occidental Mindoro; and 234 in Antipolo City, Rizal. Together, let us continue bringing government services closer to Filipinos in need – from better sports facilities more accessible healthcare services, and implementing various programs to help uplift communities affected by crises. 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‘Geeks On A Beach 2023’: Startup founders to gather at Panglao, Bohol Philippines
Movers and shakers of the Philippine startup community, innovators and investors, and global and national leaders are set to gather for the sixth edition of the tech-famous Geeks On A Beach (GOAB) international conference on November 22 to 24 at the renowned Panglao Island in Bohol, Philippines. Spearheaded by GeeksPH and co-organized by the Department […].....»»
Bohol beneficiaries receive ‘happy homes’
In a gesture of compassion and community spirit, elderly Commissioners and Faith Corps from Tzu Chi Manila flew to Bohol on 18 August 2023 to help transform the lives of three beneficiaries of the “Happy Home” project in Bohol. This charitable initiative aimed to provide hope and stability to those who had their homes severely battered by typhoon “Odette” in December 2021. The volunteers set off from Tagbilaran City to Sagbayan to turn over new homes to their owners. [caption id="attachment_182279" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] The ‘Happy Home‘ turnover coincided with Gleceria Celades’ birthday, making it a double celebration for the 87-year-old recipient.[/caption] Fernando Navarez, 62, a bachelor from Katipunan, Sagbayan Bohol, faced paralysis and speech impairment when he suffered a stroke in 2012. After typhoon “Odette” destroyed his home, he tried to rebuild a shanty for his shelter located on top of a slope, while barangay officials supported him through monthly food rations. Upon learning of Tzu Chi Bohol’s “Happy Home” project, one of his neighbors sought help for him to have a liveable home. Navarez was most grateful for the home he received from the charity organization. Gleceria Celades, 87, from Canmaya Diot in Sagbayan, lived alone in home built from salvaged materials that was then destroyed by typhoon “Odette.” The “Happy Home” turnover coincided with her birthday, making it a meaningful double celebration for Celades, who said the moment was a turning point in her life. Finally, 64-year-old Felipa Gonzaga, a resident of San Roque in Sagbayan, turned to Tzu Chi Bohol for assistance following the devastating aftermath of “Odette.” Felipa and her family found refuge in their daughter's dwelling nearby, living off mainly on the senior citizen pension of Felipa and her husband. [caption id="attachment_182295" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Felipa Gonzaga (left), 64, and her family can now rebuild anew in their new home.[/caption] But with the help of Tzu Chi, now she can rebuild anew and restore the safety and stability of her family's abode. The post Bohol beneficiaries receive ‘happy homes’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bottoms up!
Meaning: An encouragement to drink or to finish one’s drink. Did you know that the term “Bottoms up” originated in an era when English sailors were encouraged to drink? There is a popular story behind its history where English sailors used to be bribed with coins to join the navy and many times, they would be tricked into joining by being given a beer with a coin at the bottom of the glass. Sounds fun, right? There is a reward after drinking a reward. I can drink to that! According to the legend, men began to say “Bottoms up” to their drinking buddies so they could see if there were coins in the glasses before the drinks were finished. Now, in modern times, most people say, “Bottoms up!” to cheer their buddies when drinking alcohol, having fun, and celebrating an event. It used to be a happy term, but did you know that it could also be a negative phrase? In some situations, people say “Bottoms up!” to encourage drinking something unpleasant. For example, you need to drink your medicine despite its bitter so someone will say to you “Bottoms Up!” until you finish it. Yes, my dear readers, how are you after the long weekend? Have you recharged and had fun together with friends and families? Nothing wrong with having fun, of course, as long as it does not hurt anyone or as long as it is after working hours. Speaking of “Bottoms up!,” it has been all over the news recently, have you seen it? In case you haven’t, then let me fill you in on some spicy information. Last week, on 16 August, acting port managers and seven other officials of the Philippine Ports Authority assigned to the Port Management Office of Bohol were caught on CCTV drinking inside the PPA office multipurpose hall to celebrate the acting port manager’s birthday. That’s not the worst of it. Aside from drinking on the premises of a government facility, they used the office chairs and tables (supposedly for meetings and official functions) for their drinking session with lots of bottles of alcohol, an invited band, and the attorneys and port police dancing as shown on the CCTV footage. Like I said, having fun is not bad at all, celebrating birthdays is okay, and being together with friends or co-workers on a special day is totally fine.... but not to the extent of using government facilities and resources to fuel that fun. These eight officials of PPA Bohol, including the acting port manager/birthday celebrator, two legal attorneys, four port police officials, and the Port Services Department Bohol head, were removed from their posts pending an investigation. Recently, PPA General Manager Jay Santiago issued a memorandum reiterating Memo Circular No. 013-2023, otherwise known as the “Strict prohibition on the consumption of alcoholic beverages in the workplace.” The memorandum was first issued in 2018 under the same management after the former DoTr officials issued a directive prohibiting alcoholic beverages in the workplace — all in accordance with Civil Service Commission Memorandum No. 4, series of 2011, stating the policy guidelines on the prohibition of alcoholic beverages among government officials and employees. See? No government official or employee is excused for drinking inside a government office. An official is expected to serve the public, to give assistance, to make their lives easier, to be of great service to the community, and not to be another source of conflicts and problems within their areas of responsibility. Ports operate 24/7, thus there is no need to be complacent at any moment. Thank goodness for the high-tech surveillance system of the PPA, serious negligence and deliberate negative acts like these can be monitored from the head office. To be fair, drinking has long been the center of workplace culture, whether for socialization or to gain each other’s trust. In fact, in China, drinking with business partners serves as a moral contract in which the potential work partners get drunk together until they become friends and gain each other’s trust and professional interests. But we are not in China, we are here in our beloved country striving to always change to rise from the difficulties of being in a third-world country. A lot of people, or even more deserving people, need jobs, hence, any job, especially a government position, should not be taken for granted and abused. Now this brings us to a question: Does alcohol have a place at work and should it? Your guess is as good as mine. Let us not normalize alcohol drinking at work or the pressure to participate. It may seem like a nice gesture to subsidize alcohol at events to build camaraderie, but it is not necessary in carrying out government functions, especially inside office areas. There you go, fellow boat riders, yes, we either sink or swim all together because we are in the same boat, but this time we’re not in the same boat because no one wants to be bonding with booze and boss in an office setup on a weekday. Smells like a “Bottoms up!” disaster. Yikes! The post Bottoms up! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Palawan opens first iodized salt processing facility
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — The provincial government has formally inaugurated its first-ever iodized salt processing facility, marking an important milestone not only for the province but also for the entire MIMAROPA region. Provincial information officer Atty. Christian Jay Cojamco said Monday that the pioneering initiative — which was inaugurated on 18 August in Barangay Danleg in Dumaran town — stands as a pilot enterprise project resulting from a collaborative effort between the Palawan government under the leadership of Governor Victorino Dennis Socrates and the regional office of the Department of Science and Technology. “The facility was established to elevate the quality and production of salt through modern processes, departing from the traditional solar salt production method, where seawater is evaporated under intense sunlight,” Cojamco said. “It aims to expand opportunities for impoverished families residing in rural and coastal communities within the province like Dumaran,” he added. With the facility, Palawan can already contribute to the production of iodized salt, which helps improve the overall health of communities by reducing the prevalence of thyroid-related disorders and cognitive impairments. Cojamco said that Governor Victorino Socrates expressed gratitude to the former administration of then-governor Jose Alvarez, who is now Palawan Second District representative for the construction of the facility that is important in the project. Following inauguration ceremonies, a memorandum of agreement was signed between the provincial government and Mayor Richard Herrera of Dumaran for the turnover of the salt facility. The municipality is categorized as a third-class town in Northern Palawan and is documented by the national census to be home to 23,528 residents as of 2020. Renowned for its salt producers located in Barangay Bohol, it boasts the largest salt-making community within Palawan province. “It’s a blessing for the town of Dumaran. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the project that you’ve provided, something we couldn’t have given to our constituents, but through you, it has been granted to us. It’s an honor that, as a first in the entire Mimaropa region, Dumaran alone possesses a salt processing facility,” Herrera said. Meanwhile, salt farmer Gregorio Padul of the Barangay Bohol Salt Farmers Association said the facility will aid in iodizing their salt production and contribute to their livelihood. “Through the provincial government, we were given the livelihood of salt production, and we are thankful. With this facility now in place, we know that we will be able to produce salt more efficiently and increase our income. We can now iodize our salt more quickly to improve our lives and market it better,” Padul said. The post Palawan opens first iodized salt processing facility appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go throws support to grassroots sports development programs
Championing grassroots sports development initiatives in various local communities, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally witnessed the opening of the inter-barangay basketball league in Cortes, Bohol on Monday, July 17. The basketball league is in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission and the local government led by Mayor Lynn Iven Lim. Addressing the crowd gathered at the ampitheater, the chair of the Senate Committee on Sports underscored the significance of sports in promoting physical fitness and diverting the youth's attention away from illegal vices, including drug abuse. As an ardent supporter of grassroots sports development, Go recognized the pivotal role that athletics play in nurturing a healthier and more productive citizenry. “Sporting events, such as the basketball league in Cortes, not only provide an avenue for physical exercise but also encourage teamwork, discipline, and camaraderie among participants,” he said. Go emphasized the importance of promoting sports activities as a means to promote a drug-free community. He highlighted the prevalence of illegal drugs in various communities and expressed his commitment to combat this menace by promoting productive activities that inspire individuals, especially the youth, to stay away from harmful substances and become productive members of society. "Kaya ganun na lang po ang galit ni (dating) pangulong Duterte sa iligal na droga. Kapag pumasok po ang droga, papasok po ang kriminalidad, papasok po ang korapsyon. Mabibili po 'yan. 'Yan po ang kinatatakutan natin dito, kapag bumalik po ang iligal na droga, hindi na po magiging safe maglakad ang mga anak natin," said Go. “Kaya isa rin po sa pamamaraan na ine-engganyo ko po ang kabataan to get into sports, stay away from drugs. Ilayo po natin ang mga kabataan sa droga through sports. Get into sports, stay away from drugs,” he added. The event was also attended by Congressman Edgardo Chatto, Vice Governor Dionisio Victor Balite, Tagbiliran City Mayor Jane Yap, Dauis Vice Mayor Miriam Sumaylo, and Cortes Councilor Ira Lim, among others. "Senator, maraming salamat sa iyong panahon, alam ko kung gaano ka ka-busy.... On behalf ng mga mamamayan dito sa Cortes, maraming salamat mula sa aming puso sa lahat ng iyong tulong sa amin dito.... Ang game changer natin na makapagbigay ng maayos na pag-unlad, especially sa ating mga kababayan, andito ang biggest regional hospital at… ang tumulong sa pagpasa ng batas para maisakatuparan ito ay si Senator Bong Go," Mayor Lim said. Mayor Lim likewise thanked Go for the projects he supported in Cortes as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, including the acquisition of a multipurpose vehicle, the construction of a multipurpose building, and the improvement of the municipal public park and hall grounds. Go also underscored the importance of creating opportunities for young athletes, including scholarships, training programs, incentives and continuing investments in local sports facilities. It can be recalled that in 2021, Go visited Bataan and participated in the presentation and signing of the Deed of Donation for the land where the Philippine Sports Training Center (PSTC) was proposed to be constructed in Bagac. The creation of the PSTC aims to promote sports in the country and achieve excellence in international sports competitions. Meanwhile, Go authored and co-sponsored the measure that became Republic Act No. 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in 2020. NAS is a government-run educational institution that offers quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. Go also filed Senate Bill No. 423 or the proposed Philippine National Games (PNG) Act of 2022. The measure aims to institutionalize “a truly comprehensive national grassroots sports program, which will harness the vast potential of the citizenry in discovering and developing champion athletes who could excel in international sports competition, thus giving the country pride and international goodwill and addressing the long-standing problems of Philippine sports in general.” “As chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am one with President (Ferdinand) Marcos Jr. in highlighting the importance of sports in nation-building. I reiterate my firm commitment to always look after the welfare of our athletes and to push for long-term and grassroots sports development,” Go previously said. It can also be recalled that Go played a crucial role in pushing for additional funding for sports development in the country. He effectively advocated for a boost in the 2023 budget of the PSC, specifically designating an extra one billion pesos to aid athletes, both at the international level and in grassroots initiatives. On the same day, Go visited several infrastructure projects he supported the funding of as vice chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, including the ongoing construction of Governor Celestino Gallares Multi-specialty Medical Complex in Cortes, and the Cortes Municipal Park and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management building, both in Cortes town. He also led a distribution activity for athletes, coaches, and barangay workers in Cortes town. After Cortes, Go went to Tagbilaran City to inspect the city’s Super Health Center and the Malasakit Center at Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital. Lastly, the senator attended the 73rd Commencement Exercise of Bohol Institute of Technology International College System. 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Innovative architecture in Panglao Shores
Sustainability and innovation in architecture are intertwined and increasingly integral to responsible design, proving that they are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary aspects. Panglao Shores in Bohol, designed by XCO2, showcases the integration of sustainability and innovation in architecture. The project takes a proactive stance by prioritizing the reduction of energy, water and waste demands as core elements of its development approach. Despite pandemic-related challenges and supply chain disruptions, the design team for Panglao Shores showed exceptional resilience compared to other regional developers. Their self-sufficiency-oriented approach, utilizing local materials, aimed to achieve the highest standards of sustainable design. Through innovative yet straightforward design techniques, they effectively reduced energy demand, minimizing the reliance on advanced technology and lowering carbon dioxide emissions. “The design team had to look for innovative ways to do so without compromising guest comfort and experience,” XCO2 executive John Farrell told the Daily Tribune, adding that they were able to predict the energy-saving benefits of a variety of design techniques at once by using dynamic simulation tools. “Looking at ways to provide shading and reduce the ingress of unwanted solar heat into guestrooms and occupied spaces lead to a significant reduction in the cooling demand and therefore a reduction in the size of plant for cooling while also saving money on running costs,” Farrell added. XCO2 also emphasized the value of investing time in early-stage design to implement optimum strategies, eliminating unnecessary engineering. “By combining sustainable practices with innovative design thinking, architects can create buildings and spaces that are environmentally responsible, resource-efficient, aesthetically pleasing and supportive of the well-being of occupants and the surrounding community,” Farrell said. “We are likely to see a rise in the priority of designing buildings to promote better health and well-being for its users.” Panglao Shores, a masterplan development located on the picturesque Panglao Island in Bohol, offers stunning views of the Mindanao Sea and encompasses a wide range of amenities, such as retail and commercial areas, residential villages, hotels, international resorts and a beach club. This expansion project aims to enhance the existing South Palms Resort and bolster the tourism infrastructure of the Central Visayas region, recognizing the island’s significance as the 10th largest in the Philippines. Covering more than 57 hectares, the development prioritizes sustainability and adheres to international environmental standards, ensuring a competitive advantage in the industry. The post Innovative architecture in Panglao Shores appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cultural institutions celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride
Esteemed Philippine cultural institutions, Cultural Center of the Philippines and the National Museum of the Philippines, displayed their support to the LGBTQ+ community with lights and flags during LGBTQ+ Pride Month last June. The CCP once again illuminated the façade of its iconic Main Building with rainbow colors, reiterating their support to the LGBTQ+ community, whose many members are part of the culture and the arts sector and have become important figures in shaping and enlivening Philippine culture. Its Production Design and Technical Services Division, under the supervision of Ricardo Eric Gabat Cruz, created the light show with multiple layers of wavy pattern gobos to achieve depth. The special lighting was on from 23 to 30 June, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. [caption id="attachment_153005" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Photograph by Roel Hoang ManiponAt the National Museum of Anthropology.[/caption] Aside from the lighting, CCP also created a program in their outdoor screening project CCP Cinema Under the Stars for LGBTQ+ Pride Month. Shown on 23 June at the CCP Annex Parking were already classic Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros, a Cinemalaya festival full-length film entry directed by Auraeus Solito, and Gawad Alternatibo short films Gee-Gee at Waterina, directed by Mariami Tanangco-Domingo, and Pasilong, directed by Toni Cañete. [caption id="attachment_153006" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Photograph courtesy of National MuseumWestern-Southern Mindanao Regional MuseumPride flags at the National Museum Western-Southern Mindanao Regional Museum in Zamboanga City.[/caption] On the other hand, the National Museum of the Philippines embellished their social media accounts with Pride theme and their buildings with Pride flags including the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of Anthropology and the National Museum of Fine Arts. Its site, area and regional museums all over the country also joined in in the celebration. Some — such as the NM Ilocos Regional Museum Complex in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur; the NM Western Visayas Regional Museum in Iloilo City, Iloilo; the NM Bohol Area Museum in Tagbilaran City, Bohol; the NM Eastern-Northern Mindanao Regional Museum in Butuan City; and NM Western-Southern Mindanao Regional Museum at Fort Pilar in Zamboanga City -— hung their own Pride flags. [caption id="attachment_153007" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Photograph by Roel Hoang ManiponThe central atrium of the National Museum Bohol Area Museum is decorated with a large Pride flag.[/caption] “As inscribed in our vision statement, we at the National Museum of the Philippines strive to — among other things — visualize a Filipino nation, unified by a deep sense of PRIDE in their common identity. To all our LGBTQIA+ friends and allies, you are seen, at #KitaKitaSaNMP!,” the NMP stated in their Facebook page. NMP also held a contest for visitors to the Manila complex, encouraging them to wear their colorful outfits on Fridays of the June and awarding prizes for the first 30 joiners. “EveryGAY, the National Museum has been tirelessly making our spaces safe, open and inclusive to all people — not just this Pride Month — but throughout the whole year, too! BI making this great institution accessible for everyone, we are able to revolutionize our museums into a personal, cultural and educational experience that unify the Filipino people and TRANScends the differences in our identities, kaya #TayoTayoSaNMP!,” the NMP further said. Despite these shows of support, the Philippines still lack a national law preventing discrimination and marginalization of the LGBTQ+ community. The post Cultural institutions celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AFP: 156 NPAs in Visayas neutralized in first half of 2023
The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Saturday reported that the government troops in the Visayas region were able to neutralize a total of 156 members of the New People’s Army in the first half of this year. AFP’ Visayas Command spokesperson, LtCol. Israel Galoria said the government forces reaped the gains of its anti-insurgency efforts from 1 January to 30 June this year. Of the 156 NPAs neutralized, Galoria said 103 of them returned to the folds of the, 42 died in action during encounters with government forces and 11 of them were arrested during joint law enforcement operations. Aside from neutralizing NPAs, the AFP also noted that 223 firearms and 82 anti-personnel mines were also seized in the same period. These neutralized NPA rebels consist o 12 high-value individuals. One of them namely, Rogelio Posadas, the notorious Secretary of the Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, or KR NCBS. He died in an encounter on 20 April in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental AFP VisCom commander, Lt. Gen Benedict Arevalo, said the NPA forces have been suffering defeat from April to May due to the diligence of military forces in the area to run after the rebels that have been exploiting people and sowing fear in the Visayas region. “I would like to congratulate everyone for a very good job for the 1st Semester of 2023. The exceptional performance that you have shown manifests your strong desire and motivation to serve and protect our people and end the local communist armed conflict in this part of the country,” Arevalo told the Team VisCom. For the month of April, a total of 21 NPA terrorists were neutralized, and 25 firearms were seized. Arevalo cited a notable incident on 30 April at Brgy Santander, Bobon, Northern Samar wherein an encounter between members of the 803rd Infantry Brigade and the NPA’s Sub-regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU) under Sub-Regional Committee ‘Emporium’ resulted in seven NPA terrorists killed, one surrendered and the recovery of four high-powered firearms. In May, a total of 40 NPA terrorists were neutralized, and 54 firearms were seized. This was highlighted by the series of encounters in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, and Guihungan City, Negros Oriental between members of the 62nd Infantry Battalion and the remnants of the NPA’s weakened guerilla front, the Central Negros 1 under the Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor (KR NCBS). The incident resulted in a total of nine NPA terrorists killed, two surrendered, and 14 firearms seized by the government troops. Arevalo also reported that a total of 942 people’s organizations were established, redirected, and coopted by the Community Support Program personnel of Team VISCOM in the entire Visayas region, 600 of which are in Western and Central Visayas, while 342 are in Eastern Visayas. Arevalo underscored that the support of people within communities remained vital to the government’s anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism campaigns in the area. “As we sustain our focused military operations to prevent the CPP-NPA from taking advantage of the upcoming Barangay and SK Elections, let us also continue engaging our people. Let us enlighten them on the evils brought by the CPP-NPA,” he said. The post AFP: 156 NPAs in Visayas neutralized in first half of 2023 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Embracing innovation and sustainability
Craving for the “island vibe” and wanting the beach and the crystal blue waves for your next view? Panglao Shores is the perfect nature-based resort situated in Bohol that offers beyond that. The sustainable hotel and resort have a relaxing and romantic view of the beach, foster a safe and inclusive community and conserve the long-lived Boholano culture. Hope Uy, managing director of Panglao Shores, commits to making the tourist destination adhere to sustainable methods and innovative approaches as a proactive effort to preserve the vibrant island. “We’re now very conscious of creating liveable spaces with a green design approach,” Uy told Daily Tribune. [caption id="attachment_151777" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF PANGLAO SHORES | PANGLAO Shores is a 50-hectare mixed-use estate by the Alturas Group of Companies.[/caption] Pandemic efforts To minimize the losses and work around the uncertainty brought upon by the pandemic, Panglao Shores created a farming project titled “South Farm” which brought a symbol of love and motivation among its staff. “Panglao Shores created a farm in order to supply plants, natural materials and vegetables for all our developments,” Uy said, affirming that they repurposed their staff by choosing them as farmers for the project. South Farm was able to produce fruits, vegetables and an assortment of herbs amid the pandemic. “We created a sustainable supply chain through that,” she added. Keeping up with these local farming traditions encouraged progressive and sustainable practices that will be beneficial for the island in the long run. “It [South Farm] helped our displaced team members during the pandemic and where we started our sustainable practices. South Farm inspired us to make Panglao Shores sustainable and innovative,” Uy said. Sustainability as a top choice Aside from producing and farming greens, South Farm recycles wastes and creates local and intricate handicrafts that promote the province. Sustainability is not just a mere concept loosely thrown around in the company. To ensure that the company strongly develops and practices long-term sustainable efforts, Panglao Shores works with XCO2, a London-based consultancy that specializes in low-carbon strategies. It will also incorporate sustainable methods through its future projects. “Our new resort will have old reclaimed woods salvaged from old houses, all rooms will have a history with every piece of wood on the walls,” she said. Paradise life Panglao Shores prides itself on world-class and exquisite services and amenities, as well as access to the beach, an ideal place to boost productivity and reinvigorate your soul. “We need to go back to a livable natural space and it starts with responsible building of the present and future. This will be pandemic proof,” she said. For ongoing projects, Uy is hopeful and excited about how Panglao Shore will thrive in the near future. “We need to go back to a livable natural space and it starts with responsible building of the present and future. This will be pandemic proof,” she said. The post Embracing innovation and sustainability appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Unbeaten Boholano boxer Nicolas invades Japan
CEBU CITY, Philippines— Daniel “Vaquero” Nicolas of PMI Bohol Boxing Stable will try to make a good impression on Japan’s boxing community when he takes on local boy Kenji Fujita in an eight-round, non-title bout at the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan on Saturday, June 3, 2023. This will be Nicolas’ first fight abroad and […] The post Unbeaten Boholano boxer Nicolas invades Japan appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Family, folklore define pioneering hotel design
With craft, community and a deeply held intrinsic value for the cultural mores and history of the island, South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol–MGallery is shaping up to be anything but a cookie-cutter hotel. Six world-class innovation and sustainability leaders in architecture, interior design and green development have gathered to create a hotel like no other — weaving the folklore of the destination into the fabric of the project and into the hearts of the community of artisans proudly crafting a living history for guests when the hotel opens as part of the Panglao Shores masterplan in fourth quarter of 2024. Take Patrick Keane, founder of Enter Projects, an artist and master of “native material” design who is working with Boholano craftsmen to create spaces of celebration: “Here is a community deeply entrenched in generations of arts and crafts. We are using local materials such as recycled woods, weaving basketry and weaving fabrics, plus traditional techniques passed down through generations and incorporating performance-based materials, such as solar and sustainably engineered materials. As a project it is breaking new ground.” [caption id="attachment_137072" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PATRICK Keane, founder of Enter Projects Asia, analyzes a traditional loom weaving in Bohol.[/caption] The concept of “adaptive reuse,” which is about extending the life cycle of architecture through creative upcycling, ensuring history lives on and folklore traditions are maintained. Hazel Wu of White Jacket has been at the forefront of the reuse of materials from former ancestral homes to ensure materials are utilized and cherished. “A piece of Bohol will be featured in every room, including wooden walls that previously formed part of village dwellings and natural materials that tell the story of local artists and artisans. This is a tale of culture and folk tales. Stories that will be told throughout the hotel,” said Wu. [caption id="attachment_137070" align="aligncenter" width="525"] HAZEL WU of White Jacket (Singapore), checking wood quality of a former disused ancestral home in Bohol.[/caption] Located on a 6.4-hectare site, the hotel is a story of collaboration and rediscovery of the roots of Bohol’s cultural heritage led by the owners’ passion and love of the destination. The personal journey of Hope Uy, daughter of the founder of owning company, Alturas Group of Companies, is at the core of the creation of the 188-key resort. [caption id="attachment_137071" align="aligncenter" width="525"] HOPE Uy, managing director of Panglao Shores.[/caption] Every aspect of the project will be developed in line with eco-building standards and materials, such as high-performance glass, natural ventilation and solar harvesting, along with smart technologies, electric transport, water treatment and waste reduction. John Farrell, founder and director of XCO2 Energy is a specialist in low-carbon projects and his input is instrumental in helping South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol—MGallery to be operationally eco-friendly. Construction of South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol—MGallery is currently underway in Phase 1 of Panglao Shores with completion scheduled in Q4 2024. The post Family, folklore define pioneering hotel design appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Revitalizing Ibajay Mangrove Park
Recognizing the importance of mangroves in protecting and enriching marine life, One Meralco Foundation (OMF) has revitalized the Ibajay Mangrove Park in Aklan that serves as shelter and guardian of the vast water resources that provide livelihood to locals in the area. OMF, through its One for Trees program, recently provided support to the local government of Ibajay by funding the plantation of 50,000 mangroves in a 44.22-hectare forest in the municipality. OMF will also contribute to the maintenance of the mangroves over a period of three years. Home to 28 out of 35 mangrove species found in the Philippines, the centuries-old Ibajay Mangrove Park is a vital resource to the local community as it helps reduce shoreline erosion. It also serves as the nursery for the Butongbato Marine Fish Reserve, sheltering newly hatched fish species until they grow old enough to swim out to sea. “We recognize that the mangroves are an extension of our bounty in the sea. Ensuring proper protection of the area will also result to better fish resources for our fishermen,” Ibajay Mayor Jose Miguel Miraflores said. OMF also collaborated with the local people’s organizations in the area — the Butongbato Fisherfolk Association, and the Naisud Mangrove Aquatic Organization for the management of the mangrove forest and to ensure that rehabilitation efforts will be sustained. “We all have witnessed the benefits of the mangrove forest to us that’s why we encourage to continue the good work because we are not just the ones who will reap the rewards of it. We protect and develop our mangroves because this is for the benefit of all,” Miraflores added. The assistance provided by OMF for the Ibajay Mangrove Park under the One for Trees program forms part of its commitment to nurture and plant at least five million trees by 2026. According to OMF President and Meralco Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer Jeffrey O. Tarayao, the One for Trees program emphasizes the importance of addressing environmental, social, and economic needs to make reforestation truly sustainable. “While it is essential that we preserve and rehabilitate critical watersheds, the reforestation should integrate community empowerment through livelihood and increased awareness,” he said. The One for Trees program of OMF is implemented nationwide and contributes to the preservation and protection of Philippine forests through reforestation and agroforestry. Beyond tree planting, the One for Trees program also provides sustainable livelihood to communities around conservation sites. “One For Trees also invests at building the capacities and improving the economic welfare and social wellbeing of the people who maintain these trees and ensures that the same trees will also benefit their own families and communities,” Tarayao said. Currently, the OMF has forged partnerships with various organizations such as the Green Earth Heritage Foundation in San Miguel in Bulacan, the Fostering Education and Environmental Development organization for Siniloan in Laguna, and various local government units in the provinces of Bohol, Bukidnon, and Agusan del Norte among others. [caption id="attachment_123498" align="alignnone" width="731"] The three-year grant from One Meralco Foundation to support the development and rehabilitation of the Ibajay Mangrove Park will cover the planting of 50,000 mangroves. The people’s organization managing the ecopark will be at the forefront of rehabilitating the forest.[/caption] The post Revitalizing Ibajay Mangrove Park appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Balik Probinsya beneficiaries undergo community reintegration
CEBU CITY - The 41 individuals who arrived in Cebu and Bohol from Metro Manila after availing of the "Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa" Program (BP2P) are now undergoing reintegration in their respective communities, a social welfare official said on Wednesday.Rebecca Geamala, DSWD-7 regional.....»»
DOH-7 sends 22 nurses in 3 Bohol hospitals amid rise in COVID-19 cases
TAGBILARAN CITY—The Department of Health in Central Visayas (DOH-7) has deployed 22 nurses in three private hospitals in Bohol to help augment their manpower amid the rise in COVID-19 cases in the province. The Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center and the Ramiro Community Hospital each received seven nurses, while eight others were deployed at […] The post DOH-7 sends 22 nurses in 3 Bohol hospitals amid rise in COVID-19 cases appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Bohol opens community pantry, encourages others to donate to help in need
CEBU CITY, Philippines— Plastic Free Bohol is not just raising awareness about plastic pollution in Bohol but is now helping others through their Alona Community Pantry. For their fifth anniversary celebration, instead of doing their regular food bag distributions, Jammy Ungab, founder of Plastic Free Bohol, decided to do the community pantry instead, following the […] The post Bohol opens community pantry, encourages others to donate to help in need appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Electric cooperatives’ sales revenues up 9% to P54.074-B
Despite the continued wreck of the coronavirus pandemic, the higher electricity usage of consumers had jacked up the overall revenues of the country’s electric cooperatives within April-June this year to P54.074 billion, higher by 9.0-percent from P49.672 billion in the first quarter. The energy sales specifically had escalated by 12-percent in the second quarter of this year, according to the National Electrification Administration (NEA), and that was because of the residential end-users who were mostly confined in their homes at the height of the lockdown period which straddled the months of April and May. NEA stated that based on the statistical report of its Information Technology and Communication Services Department (ITCSD), the nationwide aggregate sales of the ECs climbed to 5,988 gigawatts hours (GWh) within April-June stretch versus the leaner 5,337 GWh in the first quarter. “This was due to the 9.0-percent increase in electricity consumption by the residential sector,” NEA Edgardo R. Masongsong has emphasized. In particular, household end-users posted 3,693 GWh power consumption in the second quarter due to the scorching weather during the summer months; while it was at lower 2,806 GWh in the relatively colder periods of January to March. However, the outcome was a reverse in the commercial sector because the health crisis forced many businesses to either close or reduce operations especially within the March-May duration of the enhanced community quarantines (ECQ) in various parts of the country. The electrification agency pointed out “the pandemic restrictions pushed the energy sales in the commercial sector to fall by 6.0-percent from 1,165 GWh to 982 GWh.” Within the industrial segment of end-users, this was likewise down by 3.0percent to 957 GWh from a heftier consumption of 1,000GWh in the initial quarter of the year. Further, the power usage of public buildings and other consumers had been slightly down by 1.0-percent to 356GWh from 366GWh. Masongsong particularly highlighted that “sales and revenues of power cooperatives operating in Aklan, Benguet, Palawan, Bohol and Siargao island, which are highly dependent on tourism, fell sharply in the second quarter as a result of the community quarantines imposed in these areas.” Of all the service areas of the ECs, NEA noted that Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) logged the biggest downturn in energy sales at 20-percent, which could be equivalent to P149 million in unrealized revenues. Another power utility which registered sizeable two-digit sales decline of 18-percent had been Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO), and that redounds to P145 million revenue loss. For Palawan Electric Cooperative (PALECO), its energy sales had been down by 9.0-percent or equivalent P53 million loss; Bohol Electric Cooperative (BOHECO) sales fell 6.0-percent or a resulting loss of P50 million; and Siargao Electric Cooperative Inc. (SIARELCO) had its sales trimmed by 8.0-percent and that was tantamount to revenue loss of P7.0 million......»»
Gov. Yap extends Bohol MGCQ until July 31
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Bohol province will remain under the modified general community quarantine status (MGCQ) until July 31, 2020. Bohol Governor Arthur Yap, signed on Wednesday, July 15, 2020, Executive Order no. 38, extending the MGCQ status of the province to July 31. In the Executive Order, Yap said the move is in view […] The post Gov. Yap extends Bohol MGCQ until July 31 appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cebu City Now Under GCQ
The national Interagency Taskforce on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) approved the appeal of Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella to put Cebu City under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) today, June 1, 2020. Cebu City joins Mandaue CIty, Lapu-Lapu CIty, Bohol, and Negros Oriental under GCQ from June 1 to June 15. Meanwhile, barangays […].....»»