European buildings turn blue for UN s 75th anniversary
More than 150 monuments and buildings across Europe will be lit up blue on Saturday to mark the 75th anniversary of the United Nations......»»
Political repression, trumped-up charges continue under Marcos Jr, groups say
Human rights advocates in Davao City commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10 with a program calling for the end of political repression against activists, community workers, and indigenous peoples......»»
75 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Today we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights......»»
Papal Nuncio to lead 75th San Fernando diocese anniversary
Papal Nuncio to lead 75th San Fernando diocese anniversary.....»»
Human rights – the never-ending struggle
Human Rights Day on Dec. 10, 2023, will mark the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights......»»
Diocese of San Fernando to celebrate 75th anniversary
Diocese of San Fernando to celebrate 75th anniversary.....»»
PEZA chief lures potential Rotarian investors with ecozone perks
Members — particularly those in such business enterprises as manufacturing — of the Rotary Club of Manila, Asia’s oldest and biggest Rotary organization, were personally enticed by Philippine Economic Zone Authority director-general Tereso Panga of the benefits, particularly tax perks if they expand operations in the country or poured in investments in the ecozone. Panga, who served as guest speaker at RC Manila’s 14th General Membership Meeting at the Manila Polo Club, Makati City, on 5 October 2023, relayed to the prospective ecozone investors the various fiscal and non-fiscal Incentives offered by PEZA. He said the investment promotion agency offers income tax holidays or ITH of four to seven years depending on the industry tier and location, once onboard PEZA-run ecozones. For the National Capital Region, locators are entitled to four years of ITH for those that are in Tier 1; five years of ITH for Tier 2, and six years for those belonging to Tier 3. For locators in Metropolitan areas or areas contiguous and adjacent to NCR, a five-year ITH is given to Tier 1; six years for Tier 2, and seven years for Tier 3. “A five percent Special Corporate Income Tax holiday is also provided for 10 years for export-oriented projects, while enhanced deductions for five years are given to locators involved in domestic-oriented project activities,” Panga said. Other notable benefits awaiting interested PEZA locators include Customs duty exemption on importation of capital equipment, raw materials, spare parts, or accessories directly and exclusively used in the registered project/activity for a maximum period of 17 years unless otherwise extended under the Strategic Investment Priority Plan of the Philippine government; domestic sales allowance of up to 30 percent of total sales for export-oriented companies; value-added tax exemption on importation and VAT-zero rating on local purchases of goods and services directly and exclusively used in the registered project or activity for a maximum period of 17 years, unless otherwise extended under the SIPP; and exemption from payment of national and local government taxes and fees for the period of availment of the 5 percent special corporate income tax incentive Also, PEZA locators are entitled to employ foreign nationals; can enjoy long-term land leases of up to 75 years, and are entitled to the PEZA 2-year special non-immigrant visa issued to expatriates and their dependents as well as foreign workers. [caption id="attachment_194752" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Tereso O. Panga[/caption] PEZA performance Panga earlier reported that the investment promotion agency had reaped an overwhelming 114 percent increase in investments in the second quarter of the year, following the approval of 61 new and expansion projects for the period of April to June 2022. PEZA records showed that total investments are expected to bring in a total of P14.347 billion, 114.93 percent higher than the P6.675 billion approved investments for the second quarter of 2022. Of the 61 approved new and expansion projects, 16 are for the Information Technology industry, 15 for export/manufacturing, 13 for facilities, 13 for ecozone development, and two for IT Facilities and Logistics. Meanwhile, expected jobs to be created by those projects total 11,186, which is 29.06 percent higher compared to the 8,667 projected jobs in the 2nd quarter of 2022. For the January to June period of 2023, a total of 90 new and expansion projects have been approved and are expected to bring in P22.488 billion in investments, $747.093 million in exports, and 14,354 jobs. Japan remains PEZA’s top country investor in the first half with P8.007 billion in investments followed by Singapore with P2.169 billion. Also, Panga said that Japan topped the countries with the highest approved foreign investments at 27.34 percent, followed by Filipino companies at 23.19 percent, and American companies in the third spot at 14.82 percent. “PEZA accounted for 60.5 percent of the total foreign investment commitments in Q2 2023 with P35.75 billion,” he told the Rotary Club of Manila members. From 1995 to 2022, PEZA’s total dividends turned in to the National Treasury was a total of P26,889,567,738.07. Ecozones on the rise To date, Panga said PEZA hosts 422 ecozones and 4,352 locator companies/projects throughout the country. Of said number of ecozones, 299 are dedicated to IT Parks and Centers, 79 to manufacturing firms, 24 to agro-industrial parks, 17 are to tourism and three are to medical tourism ventures. Based on the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has projected that “the creation of ecozones will…maximize investments and promote industrial dispersion, especially outside metropolitan areas. Further, the ecozones will be integrated into the local economy by relaxing the requirements, facilitating the free flow of parts, components, and other inputs, and increasing open trade between zone locators and firms outside the zones.” In the coming years, various ecozones will be sprouting, while the ecozones that have already been officially proclaimed by the Office of the President include Robinsons Cyberpark Bacolod, Lima Technology Center (Expansion), Hermosa Ecozone Industrial Park (Expansion), Philtai Central Luzon Industrial Park, Felcris Centrale IT Park, ECCO 4 Building, Lopue’s Mandalagan IT Center, Marina Town Dumaguete, Naga City Industrial Park and Kamanga Agro-Industrial Economic Zone (Expansion), altogether with investments totaling P3.418 billion. Ecozones pending approval are MetroCas Industrial Estates-Special Economic Zone, Suyo Economic Zone and the expansions of Kamanga Agro-Industrial Economic Zone and Lima Technology Center, with a total investment amount of P773.962 million. As of September 2023, the governing board of PEZA has approved big-ticket investments with a total committed investment of P193.200 billion, and these are the First Pangasinan Property Development Corp., Raedang International Builders and Development Corp., Green Energy with Torrefaction Technology Inc., Dyson Electronics PTE, Ltd. Philippine Branch, Sunpower Philippines Manufacturing Ltd., Isla Import Terminals Inc., MJ Landtrade Development Corp., YCO Cloud Malvar Inc., Savya Land Development Corporation, RLGB Land Corporation, Robinsons Land Corporation, TDK Philippines, P. Imes Corp., Best-one Ever Luck Realty Corp., Knowles Electronics (Phil) Corporation, WIPRO Phils. Inc., Glensworth Development Inc., ACI Inc., Megaworld Corporation and Kyungshin Pampanga Philippines Inc. Currently, Panga said PEZA is focused on seven priority sectors, that is, advanced manufacturing, extractives (green ores processing), agriculture and blue industries, IT services and frontier technologies, eco-industrial park development (renewable energy and alternative energy, clean water and wastewater treatment, circular economy, sustainable development goals, green buildings, smart systems integration), Science, Technology and Innovation and the integration of small and medium enterprises into the ecozone value chain. Cannot be done alone by PEZA Panga, in conclusion during his speech at the Rotary Club of Manila meeting remarked that attracting foreign direct investments cannot be done by PEZA alone or by any other investment promotion agency left to its own devices. He emphasized that what is needed to make things work is a whole government, industry and society approach to lessen the cost and improve ease of doing business in the country. “Through our collaborations and strategic alliances, PEZA, together with the Rotary Club of Manila, other ecozone industries, and stakeholders, will strive for success in attaining our country’s goals and objectives, and continue to push for eco-zoning the Philippines towards inclusive and sustainable development,” Panga said. The post PEZA chief lures potential Rotarian investors with ecozone perks appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Iran women’s activist Narges Mohammadi wins peace Nobel
The Nobel Peace Prize was on Friday awarded to imprisoned rights campaigner Narges Mohammadi, honored for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran. Mohammadi's award comes after a wave of protests that swept Iran after the death in custody a year ago of a young Iranian Kurd, Mahsa Amini, arrested for violating Iran's strict dress rules for women. Mohammadi, a 51-year-old journalist and activist, has spent much of the past two decades in and out of jail for her campaign against the mandatory hijab for women and the death penalty. She is the vice-president of the Defenders of Human Rights Centre founded by Iranian human rights lawyer Shirin Ebadi, herself a Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 2003. Mohammadi was honored "for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran and her fight to promote human rights and freedom for all," said Berit Reiss-Andersen, the head of the Norwegian Nobel Committee in Oslo. "Her brave struggle has come with tremendous personal costs. Altogether, the regime has arrested her 13 times, convicted her five times, and sentenced her to a total of 31 years in prison and 154 lashes," Reiss-Andersen said in the jury's citation. Speaking to reporters after the announcement, she called for Mohammadi's release. "If the Iranian authorities make the right decision, they will release her. So she can be present to receive this honor, which is what we primarily hope for," she said. The recent protests in Iran "accelerated the process of realizing democracy, freedom, and equality in Iran," a process that is now "irreversible", Mohammadi told AFP last month in a letter written from her prison cell. She and three other women held with her at Tehran's Evin prison burned their hijabs to mark the anniversary of Amini's death on 16 September. Iran is ranked 143rd out of 146 countries on the World Economic Forum's gender equality ranking. Iranian authorities cracked down harshly on last year's "Woman, Life, Freedom" uprising. A total of 551 protesters, including 68 children and 49 women, were killed by security forces, according to Iran Human Rights, and thousands of others were arrested. The movement has since continued in other forms. In what would have been unthinkable a year ago, women now go out in public without the headscarf, in particular in Tehran and other big cities, despite the risks. Wearing the hijab is one of the pillars of the Islamic Republic. Authorities have stepped up controls, using surveillance cameras among other things, and have arrested actresses who post pictures of themselves on social media without the hijab. No prospect of freedom In September, Iran's conservative-dominated parliament announced heavier penalties for women who refuse to wear it. "This year's Peace Prize also recognizes the hundreds of thousands of people who in the preceding year have demonstrated against the theocratic regimes policies of discrimination and oppression targeting women," Reiss-Andersen said. Offenders will face heavy prison sentences if the "Hijab and Chastity" bill is approved by Iran's Guardian Council. Incarcerated this time since November 2021, Mohammadi has not seen her children, who live in France with her husband, for eight years. Considered a "prisoner of conscience" by Amnesty International, she told AFP in her letter that she had "almost no prospect of freedom." The prize comes on the 20th anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Ebadi, who was honored "for her efforts for democracy and human rights", especially those of women and children. This year's prize also symbolically coincides with the 75th anniversary of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In 2003, Ebadi defied conservative Iranians by refusing to wear the hijab when she received her prize in Oslo. If she remains behind bars, Mohammadi will not be able to make the trip to Oslo to receive her award, consisting of a diploma, a gold medal, and $1 million, at the annual prize ceremony on December 10. The Peace Prize has on several occasions honored jailed activists, including last year when it went to Ales Bialiatski of Belarus, whose prize was accepted by his wife, and Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo in 2010, whose chair remained empty. The post Iran women’s activist Narges Mohammadi wins peace Nobel appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Iconic Italian home brand marks 16 years in Phl
Sixteen years of bringing joy to Filipino homes. This was how SMEG Philippines presented itself to its guests to mark its recent anniversary celebration at The Ayala Museum. SMEG, the world-famous Italian brand of modern lifestyle home and kitchen appliance that incorporates technology and style into every product, is exclusively distributed in the Philippines by Mondo Cucina Inc., owned by the power couple Ton and Karen Concepcion. SMEG stands for Smalterie Metallurgiche Emiliane Guastalla (roughly translated to English as Metal Enameling Plant of Guastalla, Emilia). It is best known for its outstanding performance and sleek, retro-style designs for refrigerators, washing machines, stand mixers, toaster ovens, microwaves, wine cabinets and coffee machines – all in striking colors of red, blue, orange, yellow, white and what-have-you. The iconic global brand has elevated the culinary experience with a touch of sophistication to numerable kitchens, making them truly a functional pieces of art. “Sixteen years ago, my wife Karen and I went to a town called Guastalla in Emilia Romagna in the northern Italy, where SMEG’s headquarters are located,” said Ton, founder and owner of MCI. “We immediately fell in love with SMEG. Never have we seen such beautiful appliances made with careful attention to design and technology. We knew we have to bring SMEG into the Philippines. And so, in 2006 driven by a passion for excellence into bringing the best experiences to the customers, we open the first SMEG experience center at Serendra in BGC.” Concepcion added: “Today, SMEG is an iconic brand — a household name desired by many. It can be found in top luxury homes all over the Philippines and nearly 10,000 luxury condominiums across Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao, all having SMEG kitchens. Our customers understand that SMEG products are actually pieces of art and not just appliances. We are excited for the future as we continue to innovate and launch new products and expand our stores and service centers nationwide.” Functional pieces of art Since SMEG products have been recognized as functional pieces of art, it was just apt that SMEG Philippines anniversary was held at the Ayala Museum, where guests were first transported to Italy via a delightful indoor garden installation, then ushered to view a great Philippine masterpiece. The venue was transformed into a lush Italian garden playfully adorned with SMEG appliances like an art installation reminiscent of the Emilia Romagna region. It was filled with lemon trees, flowers and verdant greens that came alive with the stunning colors of SMEG appliances showcased as pieces of art. Then, guests were ushered to an exclusive preview of a great Philippine masterpiece -- Juan Luna’s long-lost artwork, “Hymen, oh Hyménée.” This prized work by Luna stayed with him for a decade until his death in Hong Kong in 1899, when it mysteriously vanished. Italian ambassador to the Philippines, Marco Clemente, and SMEG Export director for Asia Matteo Lupi graced the event. Business leaders from the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines and stalwarts from the country’s property development, design and architecture industries were also present. “Our brand’s commitment to outstanding design and quality remains,” said Karen, SMEG Philippine creative director. “SMEG technology is very important and unique. It’s energy saving. It’s a big plus.” SMEG Philippines continues to push the envelope in terms of design and innovation. The long tradition and history, combined with new creations continue to bring even better SMEG appliances to more homes. “For the next 16 years or maybe not just 16 but many more years, we continue to innovate and market the brand. We always want to think out of the box and that’s the spirit of SMEG — artistic, high quality and unexpected,” Karen concluded. The post Iconic Italian home brand marks 16 years in Phl appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Experience super-sized fun at SM’s 65th Anniversary this October
It’s October and it only means one thing at SM Super-Month! Suit up for some super-sized deals, treats, and fun as SM celebrates its 65th anniversary. Check out the month-long festivities filled with spectacular activities, immersive attractions, and unforgettable experiences that will leave you thrilled and excited. SM lights up the sky with Super Blue Illumination Signaling the start of SM’s 65th celebration, key malls and iconic landmarks will bathe in a brilliant shade of blue starting 1 October. A sight to behold and an event to watch out for, the Super Blue Illumination is a captivating display of dazzling lights that signify SM’s enduring legacy and commitment to bringing fun, awesome, and memorable malling experiences for over six decades. [caption id="attachment_191303" align="aligncenter" width="525"] SM MOA Globe[/caption] [caption id="attachment_191304" align="aligncenter" width="525"] SM City North Edsa[/caption] [caption id="attachment_191305" align="aligncenter" width="525"] SM MEGA Tower[/caption] [caption id="attachment_191306" align="aligncenter" width="525"] SM Aura[/caption] [caption id="attachment_191307" align="aligncenter" width="525"] SM Seaside City Cebu[/caption] [caption id="attachment_191308" align="aligncenter" width="525"] SM Makati[/caption] [caption id="attachment_191309" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Baguio Eye[/caption] [caption id="attachment_191310" align="aligncenter" width="960"] SM Lanang[/caption] It’s a shopper’s paradise with Super Buy 1 Get 1 Deals October isn’t complete without a month-long parade of super-sized deals and promos at SM Deals! Expect Buy 1 Get 1 Deals from your favorite dining, shopping and entertainment brands, extravagant discounts, exclusive bundles, and exciting freebies you can swipe to redeem in-store when you download and register on the SM Malls online app. And with a diverse range of brands and product offerings at SM, surely there's something for everyone in everyone’s shopping paradise. Indulge yourself with Super Treats Fun and frenzied October awaits as SM unleashes its Super Treats! On 15 October, indulge the movie buff in you as SM Cinema offers a Php 65 movie ticket deal and a Php 65 caramel popcorn combo. It’s truly a match made in cinema heaven! From 1 to 30 October, knock down pins all you want as SM Game Park and SM Bowling offer Php 65 off on unlimited bowling for one hour. For the skating aficionados, SM Skating will also be slashing off Php 65 on the all-day pass. And for the thrill seekers, you are in for a super treat! Have a whole day of wonder and excitement with a Php 65 entrance fee at Skyranch Tagaytay for all Mondays of October until 12 noon. Create core memories at the Super Play Spots Gather your squad and have fun at the Super Play Spots. With well-lit, Instagrammable areas, you'll have the perfect backdrop for your Super Month memories. These Super Play Spots promise hours of entertainment whether you're a social media maven or simply looking for a fun day out. Check out the Super Play Spots at SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM City North Edsa, SM Aura, SM Southmall, SM City Dasmariñas, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Cagayan Downtown Premier, SM Lanang, SM City Clark, SM City Marikina, and SM City Iloilo. [caption id="attachment_191318" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Experience the magic of SM City Marikina’s Super Play Spot's Kaleidoscope Tunnel – a dazzling experience for family and friends of all ages![/caption] [caption id="attachment_191319" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Take your Instagrammable photos at SM Mall of Asia’s Super Play Spots.[/caption] Drive away in style at the Super Raffle Giveaway with VISA From 1 October to 30 November, eleven lucky shoppers can get a chance to drive away in style at SM’s Super Raffle Giveaway with VISA. All you need to do is to shop for a minimum single receipt purchase of Php 2,000 via tap to pay using your VISA card at participating SM Retail Stores in 75 SM Malls nationwide. Get a chance to win one of the six (6) brand-new Hyundai Stargazers and one of the five (5) brand-new Hyundai Cretas. These brand-new Hyundai cars will really make your daily commute a super experience so shop till you drop and maybe drive away with a new set of wheels! The post Experience super-sized fun at SM’s 65th Anniversary this October appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos discusses WPS issue with French President Macron
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the security issues facing the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea earlier this week, Malacañang said on Thursday. In a statement, Marcos told Marcon in a telephone call on Wednesday that the Philippines is exerting all its efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region. “But may I thank France for all the support that you have given us in terms of our shared values, in terms of following the international law, especially (the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) and it has been of great help the messages of support and even when you sent French vessels to come and patrol. So I have thank you, Mr. President, and France,” Marcos said. Marcos said that the Philippines and France had just celebrated the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relationship, recalling their fruitful meeting during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok last year. Marcos said the Philippines and France are taking their discussions seriously to ensure a favorable outcome for the two countries. “This is all the product of our meetings in Bangkok, and I am very happy that … Well, we have been working assiduously trying to make sure that what we discussed we follow up and we come to a good conclusion,” Marcos said. While everything is still under discussion, President Marcos said the Philippines will make close diplomatic contact through French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel, who presented her credentials on 20 September. Meanwhile, Marcon told Marcos that French ministers will visit the Philippines soon. President Marcos replied to Macron that they could start working during the visit of the French ministers on what had been discussed during the 10th Philippine-France Joint Economic Meeting last June. Marcos then extended the invitation to the French President to visit the Philippines whenever he made a state visit to Asia. “We can work on what was just held last June, the 10th Philippine-France Joint Economic Committee Meeting. And many of the businessmen from France were able to speak to our ministers and some of the local businessmen as well,” Marcos told President Macron. "(If) your ministers will come to visit the Philippines then that will be the next step from that beginning,” the chief executive added, as he expressed his gratitude for the long-standing bilateral ties between the Philippines and France. The post Marcos discusses WPS issue with French President Macron appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mediatrix controversy
Author’s note: In the last column, I wrote that the 1951 Pius XII decree that said the Mediatrix apparitions had “no supernatural character or origin” is not binding because it was never promulgated officially. Pope Francis recently appointed a new Prefect of the Dicastery, Cardinal-to-be Archbishop Victor Manuel Fernandez, SJ. Like his predecessor, Fernandez is a Jesuit and an Argentinian. He is the “theological alter ego” of Pope Francis. How will controversial Archbishop Fernandez handle the 70-year-old Mediatrix issue? Will the current Dicastery, which is vehemently anti-Mediatrix, under the helm of Archbishop Fernandez tone down its stance? As a background, there was a decree of the Dicastery but not of Pope Pius XII. The Dicastery of 1951, whose members have died, claimed Pope Pius XII directly approved its decision (not to recognize the Mediatrix apparitions), but it was never formally entered into the Acta Apostolicae Sedis, the official Vatican publication, a requirement of Canon Law for it to take effect. What are the implications if the 1951 Pius XII decree is in truth non-existent? Under the domino principle, this implies that technically all subsequent declarations and orders of the Dicastery for 70 long years are also not binding, including the latest, wherein Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera was ordered by the Dicastery to ban all celebrations of the 75th anniversary of the Mediatrix apparitions. However, the Dicastery never authenticated the Mediatrix apparitions, so the apparition celebrations are rightfully banned. But there is a contradiction that must be resolved — since the original 1951 Pius XII decree is in question. The members of the Dicastery in 1951 were caught in a lie because then apostolic administrator Bishop Rufino Santos stated in his decree of 12 April 1951 that he was still awaiting the Vatican decision regarding Lipa — when the Dicastery reported in its Protocol 226/1949 that a decision had been made, contradicting Bishop Santos. Archbishop Fernandez has to resolve this issue because the evangelization of Asia, which is the focus of Pope Francis, is at stake. Pope Francis looks to the Philippines, the only Christian nation in Asia, as the launch pad for the evangelization of Asia and the “conversion” of China. Conversion means stopping the persecution and massacre of Christians in China, permitting churches there to open, reuniting the Underground Church (who are the target of assassinations) and the Vatican-led Church, and finally, changing China’s belligerence to benevolence in the South China Sea to prevent a full-blown US-China confrontation. The Virgin can bring peace to Asia better than any military solutions. A well-publicized message of Our Lady Mediatrix of All Grace was a warning about China: “Pray hard for China’s dream is to invade the whole world. The Philippines is one of its favorites.” (17 October 1949). There is a Mediatrix shrine in a chapel in a small village near Nanjing that was built by Metropolitan Bank when it was commissioned by the Chinese government to develop two villages. This “foothold” in China is evidence the Virgin Mediatrix is fulfilling her mission of evangelization and conversion. Archbishop Fernandez and Pope Francis must be informed of the history of the Mediatrix to sharpen their perspectives on its geopolitical ramifications. The continued suppression of Mediatrix devotion and of the entire Philippine Church may hamper the Church’s efforts to evangelize Asia. In truth, Satan is scared of the Mediatrix, that is why, in his panic, he tortured Mediatrix visionary Sr. Teresing Castillo, as she wrote in her second diary that the Vatican failed to destroy but which is now available on the Internet. Is Satan behind the suppression of the Mediatrix by using Cardinals in the Vatican without them knowing it? For centuries, Satan has been penetrating the sacred halls of the Vatican and using the Cardinals without their being aware of it. That Satan works in the Vatican is nothing new. Historically, the Spanish Inquisition in the Middle Ages beheaded on mere suspicion about a thousand “heretics.” The ongoing “apostasy” (civil war) within the Vatican, which Fatima prophesied, is another sign of Satan’s works. It is thus in the interest of the Vatican to consider the Marian evangelization that it is suppressing — to have a change of heart. In the end, the Virgin will triumph over the Vatican, if need be, as revealed in the Bible. The Lord said, “I will put enmity between you (Satan) and the Woman (Mary), and between your offspring (demons) and hers (Jesus). Her offspring will crush your head and you will bruise His heel.” Genesis 3:15. “A huge red dragon stood before the Woman about to give birth, to devour her Child. She gave birth to a Son destined to rule all nations. In utter rage, the serpent waged war against the rest of her offspring, those bearing witness to the Son born of Her womb.” Revelation 11:1-17 (excerpts). *** eastwindreplyctr@gmail.com The post Mediatrix controversy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DFA chief to visit Buenos Aires
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo will undertake an official visit to Buenos Aires this week to mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Argentina, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced yesterday......»»
DFA chief sets Argentina visit
Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo is set to undertake a five-day official visit to Buenos Aires, Argentina, according to the agency on Sunday. Manalo will be in Argentina from 11 to 16 September to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Argentina. According to the DFA, Manalo is expected to be received by his Argentine counterpart, Minister for Foreign Affairs Santiago Andres Cafiero on 13 September 2023. The DFA chief and Cafiero will discuss the deepening Philippine-Argentina cooperation agenda, which includes cooperation in science and technology, specifically in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and outer space; technical cooperation in agriculture; trade and investments; and cultural relations. He will also have speaking engagements in the multilateral arena at the Consejo Argentino para Relaciones Internacionales, the foremost think tank in Argentina; and the Universidad de Belgrano, about the longstanding bilateral relations and cooperation between Argentina and the Philippines. The Philippines was the first ASEAN country to establish relations with Argentina. The DFA said Manalo’s trip to Argentina will be the first official visit by a Philippine foreign chief to that country in more than 10 years, a “concrete demonstration of the country’s commitment to forging stronger and deeper bonds with Latin America.” The agency described Latin America as “a region with which the Philippines shares many cultural and historical commonalities.” The post DFA chief sets Argentina visit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Rolling Stones album of new songs out next month
The Rolling Stones will release their first album of new music in 18 years next month, lead singer Mick Jagger, fellow founding bandmate Keith Richards and bass guitarist Ronnie Wood announced Wednesday in London. The album, "Hackney Diamonds", is the first since the death of drummer Charlie Watts in 2019, and the first containing original material since 2005's "A Bigger Bang". "We didn't want to make just any record and put it out," Jagger, 80, told a launch event at the Hackney Empire theatre in east London, hosted by US talk show host Jimmy Fallon and livestreamed on YouTube. "I'm not saying we're big-headed about it but we're pleased with it and we hope you all like it," the octogenarian rocker said. The Stones' 24th studio album, set for release on October 20, has 12 tracks, with the single "Angry" the first to come out. Wood, 76, confirmed during the launch that superstar Lady Gaga features on another, "Sweet Sound of Heaven", adding she "sings really sweet" on it. Two of the tracks were recorded with Watts in 2019. The others feature Steve Jordan, whom Watts recommended to replace him. "Ever since Charlie's gone it's different," said 79-year-old guitarist Keith Richards of recording the new album without one of the band's founders. "He's number four, he's missing, he's up there. Of course he's missed incredibly." Already acclaimed "Hackney diamonds" is English slang for the shards of glass left scattered on the ground after smash-and-grab robberies, and refers to the historically working class east London neighbourhood. "It's like when you get your windscreen broken on a Saturday night in Hackney," Jagger joked. Throngs of people crowded outside the event venue, including those without tickets who came out of curiosity and hoping to spot the band. "I've been following the Stones since I was four years old and I'm from round here -- it's my backyard," said musician and fan Rory McGlinchey. "It's crazy that they're here!" Wearing a Rolling Stones t-shirt, he said the new release was "great news". "Can't wait," he told AFP. Critics have already hailed the release as the band's best work in many decades. Will Hodgkinson, rock and pop critic for Britain's The Times newspaper, said it is "unquestionably the best Stones album since 1978's 'Some Girls'". "Variously poignant, irreverent, anarchic and, in one gospel-tinged moment, quite spiritual, it touches on all the aspects we love about the band, glued together by the rambunctious energy they have made their own since the early Sixties," he wrote. The Daily Telegraph's music reviewer Neil McCormick said "Angry" was "their best single in four decades". The Stones also unveiled the single's typically rock'n'roll video. It sees the band playing from Los Angeles' billboards as scantily-dressed, leather-clad "Euphoria" actress Sydney Sweeney writhes to the soundtrack in the back of a convertible red Mercedes driving through the city. Teaser The Rolling Stones' last studio album was 2016's "Blue & Lonesome", which was made up of blues covers. "We've been very lazy," said Jagger. "We've been on the road most of the time." The band teased the release of the new album through a spoof advert in the local Hackney Gazette newspaper. The cryptic ad, which also appeared in sister title the Islington Gazette, referenced several of the band's best-known songs including "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction", "Gimme Shelter" and "Shattered". The ad went on: "Opening our new store on Mare Street, September 2023. Our friendly team promises you satisfaction when you say gimme shelter we'll fix your shattered windows." Clues that the ad was not for a bona fide east London glass repair business included a miniature version of the band's famed lips logo to dot the letter i. The ad -- in the same font as the "Some Girls" album -- also says the firm was established in 1962, the same year the band was formed. Last year the Stones travelled through Europe for their 60th anniversary tour which featured stops in cities including Madrid, Milan and Munich, and also a performance at British Summer Time (BST) festival in London. Asked for the secret to their decades-spanning musical marriage, Jagger quipped: "not speaking too often". "How to say shut up politely," added Richards. The post Rolling Stones album of new songs out next month appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos seeks closer Phl-Thai relations
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday conveyed his warm congratulations and best wishes to Srettha Thavisin on his election as the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand. Marcos congratulated the new prime minister after the Southeast Asian country’s monarch approved the individuals comprising the new Thai Cabinet, clearing the way for Thavisin’s government to assume office three months following the general election. “I look forward to working with you in strengthening Philippine-Thailand relations, which celebrates its milestone 75th anniversary next year,” Marcos said in X (formerly Twitter). “Our government is committed to deepening the long-standing friendship between the Filipino and Thai peoples,” he added. On 22 August, the Thailand Parliament appointed Srettha, who belongs to the Pheu Thai party, as the prime minister. Before his formal entry into politics last year, he had a notable career as a real estate developer. Additionally, he will be taking on the role of finance minister. The post Marcos seeks closer Phl-Thai relations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM congratulates new Thailand PM
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday conveyed his congratulations and best wishes to Srettha Thavisin on his election as the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand. Marcos congratulated the new Thailand Prime Minister after the Southeast Asian country's monarch approved the individuals comprising the new Cabinet in Thailand, clearing the way for Thavisin's government to assume office three months following the general election. "I look forward to working with you in strengthening Philippines-Thailand relations, which celebrates its milestone 75th Anniversary next year," Marcos said on X (formerly Twitter). "Our government is committed to deepening the longstanding friendship between the Filipino and Thai peoples," he added. On 22 August, the Thailand Parliament appointed Srettha, who hails from the Pheu Thai party, as prime minister. Before his formal entry into politics last year, he had a notable career as a real estate developer. Additionally, he will be taking on the role of finance minister. Foreign reports have mentioned that the new Thailand Prime Minister will not attend the 43rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit in Jakarta this week as his government has yet to its oath and office and deliver a policy statement to parliament. Thailand's permanent secretary Sarun Charoensuwan will represent the country during the summit and related summits in Indonesia, according to Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The post PBBM congratulates new Thailand PM appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bring public health services closer
“Health is the greatest of human blessings,” according to Hippocrates, father of Modern Medicine. That is why we continue to make significant strides in improving our health system. The latest of which is the signing into law of the Regional Specialty Centers Act. As the principal sponsor and one of the authors of this measure, I am grateful to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., for approving and prioritizing this legislation which will help bring specialized medical care closer to Filipinos in various regions, and hopefully to the most vulnerable groups in grassroots communities. As we aim to make public health more accessible, we must continue such efforts to ensure all Filipinos get the healthcare they deserve. In line with this, the Malasakit Centers we initiated in 2018 have already provided financial medical assistance to more than seven million patients so far. There are 158 Malasakit centers established all over the country through the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which I principally authored and sponsored in the Senate. I have also continuously pushed for the establishment of Super Health Centers, which are medium versions of a polyclinic and improved versions of the rural health unit, to make healthcare more accessible to Filipinos even in remote areas. These centers, funded with the help of my fellow legislators and primarily implemented by the Department of Health, shall provide primary health care services in communities that also include consultation, diagnosis, and early detection of diseases. As chair of the Senate Health Committee, I must emphasize the need to bring public health services closer to the people who need them the most. The enactment of the Regional Specialty Centers Act, along with the continuing operations of Malasakit Centers and the establishment of more Super Health Centers nationwide will hopefully bridge this gap and further promote the health and well-being of Filipinos no matter where they are in the country. As a legislator and public servant, I will continue to help improve public service delivery at the grassroots to the best of my capacity so that no Filipino is neglected when it comes to availing government services they need. That is why aside from the health initiatives mentioned above, I also continue to visit communities to deliver assistance, listen to their concerns, and provide solutions to their daily struggles. We were in Laguna on August 25 to inspect the Siniloan Sports Complex which was funded through our efforts as part of our goal as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports to promote grassroots sports development and divert our youth from harmful vices like illegal drugs. We then inspected the Isolation Facility of the Infirmary Hospital which we supported during the Duterte administration. We also led the distribution of aid to 500 impoverished residents of Siniloan together with Vice Governor Karen Agapay, Mayor Patrick Go, Vice Mayor Carla Valderrama, and other local officials. Last weekend, I also joined fellow officials and basketball enthusiasts alike in supporting Gilas Pilipinas during the 2023 FIBA World Cup. I commend everyone who took part in ensuring the successful hosting of the FIBA World Cup here in the Philippines. We were invited as a guest speaker on 24 August at the Gender and Development Activity organized by the Provincial Council of Occidental Mindoro. We support these kinds of discussions that aim to promote equal and gender-sensitive leadership. On 23 August, I received the prestigious Apostle Arsenio Ferriol Award of Excellence for Public Service and Governance. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch) for this very prestigious recognition. With or without an award, I will continue my mission to serve fellow Filipinos, knowing very well that service to the people is service to God. Aside from the awarding ceremony, I also joined them yesterday for their 50th Golden Church Anniversary celebration in New Clark City, Tarlac. I also visited Navotas City on 22 August, together with Mayor John Rey Tiangco and Vice Mayor Tito Sanchez to help 1,000 senior citizens, PWDs, and indigents. We also provided additional support to 1,328 recovering fire victims who were given aid from the National Housing Authority to buy housing materials through their Emergency Housing Assistance Program that we initiated before and continue to support its implementation now. We were also instrumental in the construction of nine public school buildings in Navotas City, some of which we were able to inspect during our visit. My office also continues to assist Filipinos affected by calamities. Among those assisted were typhoon victims in various towns in Cagayan — 500 in Gonzaga; 500 residents in Aparri; 500 in Allacapan; 500 in Pamplona; 500 in Ballesteros; and 500 more in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. More support was also provided for 35 indigents from different towns of Cotabato Province plus 110 sectoral members in Libungan town; three fire victims of Brgy. Peñaplata in Samal Island; 1,000 residents of Sibalom and almost 250 in Tobias Fornier in Antique; 1,000 beneficiaries in Polomolok, South Cotabato; 66 residents of Malolos Bulacan; 31 residents of General Tinio and 140 more in Gapan, Nueva Ecija. We also extended livelihood support to 14 indigents in Cauayan, Negros Occidental; three farmers in San Lorenzo, Guimaras; and 52 residents of Brgy. Tisa, Cebu City who were previously victims of a fire incident. They were also provided aid through DTI’s Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program, which I pushed for before and continue to support now to boost the livelihood of those affected by various crises. Furthermore, I am also thankful to the President for signing the following into law: Republic Act No. 11961, which I co-authored, amending the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, and mandates the creation of a Philippine Registry of Heritage; RA 11958, which I co-authored, that amends RA 6948 to rationalize the disability pension provided to military veterans; and the One Town, One Product Philippines Program, which I authored and co-sponsored, to support the growth of the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises. While we have accomplished a lot in the past few days in helping those in need and pushing for policies that would uplift the lives of fellow Filipinos, our work must not stop as long as there are more of our kababayans who rely on us for support. As public servants, let us continue to bring the government and its services closer to the people while working together so that no one is left behind toward recovery and progress. The post Bring public health services closer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl-Korea FTA signed Sept.
The much-anticipated signing of a free trade agreement, or FTA, between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea will likely take place in September, the Department of Trade and Industry said on Monday. Trade Secretary Fred Pascual met with Minister Dukgeun Ahn of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy of Korea last Sunday, 20 August 2023, during the 55th ASEAN Economic Ministers held in Semarang, Indonesia regarding the economic deal. “Both ministers welcomed the conclusion of the PH-ROK FTA negotiations and agreed to work for its signing, preferably at the sidelines of the 24th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Summit in September 2023.” Supply chain deal In addition, “ the trade officials committed to working on a possible supply chain resilience cooperation to ensure stability and predictability of business operations, particularly in the manufacturing sector,” the DTI said. Further, the DTI said that in time for the celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Philippines-Korea diplomatic relations, both ministers are also considering organizing a Business Forum to further boost trade and investment relations. The two sides first started negotiating the FTA in June 2019 before concluding negotiations in October 2021. But its signing was stalled several times. Under the Philippines-South Korea FTA, South Korea will lift tariffs on 94.8 percent of Philippine products, while the Philippines will cut tariffs on 96.5 percent of South Korean products. Other areas covered by the FTA include trade in goods, trade remedies, rules of origin, customs procedures and trade facilitation, economic and technical cooperation, competition, and legal and institutional issues. The post Phl-Korea FTA signed Sept. appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
More Korean tourists, investors eyed for ‘insurgency-free’ Mindanao areas
Department of National Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong on Friday said the Korean government has expressed willingness to further expand their business ventures in Mindanao, following the declaration of some areas in the region as having been freed from the insurgency problem. This development was discussed during the introductory call of the Republic of Korea ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa on Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. at the DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on 17 August. Andolong said Teodoro and Lee likewise discussed the upcoming” high-level” visit of Korean President Yoon Suk Yeo to Manila, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of Philippines-ROK diplomatic relations. “[This will] be an occasion for our two countries to reaffirm our commitment to strengthen our longstanding relations and further explore ways of building shared opportunities,” he added. During their meeting, Teodoro conveyed the country’s appreciation for Korea’s assistance in addressing the Philippines’ internal security issues and providing aid during calamities. The Defense chief also cited Korea’s assistance in the capacity-building of members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. “The Secretary also recognized the opportunity to diversify defense cooperation with the ROK, which has been among the Philippines' largest partners in terms of defense materiel and logistics,” Andolong said. He added that both officials seek to further improve the “high influx of Korean tourists and investors” in the Philippines. “Recalling the declaration of the Davao region as insurgency-free, Secretary Teodoro shared with Ambassador Lee that he sought to further expand this status of a secure tourism and investment-ready destination across the whole of Mindanao,” Andolong said. The Davao region has maintained its “insurgency-free” status for more than a year now, after a long history of being a place of clashes between the military and communist rebels. In April 2022, Korean delegates, particularly former Ambassador Kim In-Chul, along with other Korean government organizations and private sector companies, held an official business visit in Davao City to assess possible areas of investment opportunities in Mindanao such as infrastructure, telecommunications, connectivity, energy and agri-business for Davao City and Panabo City. The post More Korean tourists, investors eyed for ‘insurgency-free’ Mindanao areas appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bridgetowne: Where spaces meet artistry
Robinsons Land’s 32-hectare Bridgetowne Destination Estate is quickly becoming a hub where families congregate for a shared sense of community and artistry. [gallery columns="2" size="large" ids="170111,170112"] The Victor, which serves as centerpiece at the sprawling property, is a 60-meter public art installation by Filipino-American visual artist Jefrë Theirry Manuel-Figueras. Another work of art that gives the destination estate its name is the 110-meter bridge designed by the late National Artist Francisco “Bobby” Mañosa. It connects the development’s 9-hectare Quezon City side (Bridgetowne West) with the 23-hectare Pasig City side (Bridgetowne East). Architect Gelo Mañosa completed the project upon the passing of his father. Crossing over the Marikina River, the bridge has an expansive width of 25 meters, featuring four lanes dedicated to vehicles with unique routes for pedestrians and bikers. Bridgetowne’s Opus Mall, an upscale five-level shopping, dining, and recreation destination, is slated to open this year. The forthcoming Fili Hotel by Robinsons Hotels and Resorts, the country’s first homegrown Filipino five-star hotel, will have 300 well-appointed rooms providing guests with luxurious accommodations and signature Filipino hospitality and craftsmanship. The estate also features sustainable architecture through its line-up of premium-grade office buildings in Bridgetowne West, such as the Exxa-Zeta, Tera and Giga Towers, distinguished by their LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certifications. At the same time, the highly anticipated GBF Towers 1 and 2 are poised to achieve LEED Gold certification upon completion. Nestled within Bridgetowne East is a thriving neighborhood soon to rise with its line-up of upscale residential towers: Velaris (a joint venture with Hongkong Land), Haraya (a collaboration with Shang Properties), Le Pont, and the premium Cirrus by RLC Residences. Also in Bridgetowne is the Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan, the venue destination known as the premier choice for grand celebrations, corporate events, meetings, conferences, exhibitions and product launches. Recreational open spaces such as the 6,000 square meter Bridgetowne Obstacle Park, the upcoming FIFA-approved Bridgetowne Football Pitch and an adjacent premium sports bar and lounge are also a highlight of the estate. Bridgetowne Destination Estate has been awarded Best Township Development and Best Township Masterplan Design at the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards 2022. Visit www.robinsonsland.com/industrial-and-integrated-developments-division or message facebook.com/bridgetownedestinationestate and/or instagram.com/bridgetownedestinationestate. The post Bridgetowne: Where spaces meet artistry appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»