Joecon and the candle that will never go out
I got an invitation a couple of weeks back to receive an award on behalf of my father, Jose “Joecon” Concepcion Jr. I forgot about it until I was handed the letter to remind me of the event as I was about to sit down for an interview......»»
Exploring Southern China
I must admit, I had never heard of Zhangjiajie before… then I was told of the “Avatar Forest,” which I had heard of. That is in that city in the northwest of Hunan Province in China where that famous forest is located and is home to the famed Wulingyuan scenic area (a 26,000-hectare area that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and other tourist attractions......»»
Raymond-Mikel tandem in 2025: Possible, says Mike Rama
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama has expressed his confidence in Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, saying that he could become a good mayor in the future. Mike also conveyed to Garcia that his family is never selfish when it comes to politics. “Raymond will become mayor, I’ telling you… I told.....»»
For moments that matter, fast relief against sore throat is the answer
Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol Amylmetacresol (Strepsils) is formulated to provide quick and effective relief, so you never miss out. The medicated lozenge is a partner to the “stay ready, don’t get ready” type of people......»»
Never say ‘can’t’
Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say. — Exodus 4:12.....»»
PSSO warns anew vs building structures atop dikes, coastal road
The Davao City Public Safety and Security Office's (PSSO) Coastal Road and Davao River Monitoring Team has issued a renewed warning to Dabawenyos against constructing buildings on top of dikes and along the coastal road. This caution follows the dismantling of 334 illegal structures from October 2020 to the third week of January 2023. PSSO Head Angel Sumagaysay emphasized that these structures, including house extensions, kitchen extensions, cages, and sala extensions, are typically found atop or attached to dikes and gabions near the Davao River. Recent operations in the Talomo District involved the removal of a hut at Purok 8 Iñigo, Matina Pangi, and a reconstructed fisherman's kiosk at the Punta Dumalag section of the Coastal Area. Sumagaysay highlighted that the PSSO collaborates with barangays to identify and address illegal structures, and owners are given the choice to self-demolish or have the PSSO carry out the demolition. Sumagaysay stressed that illegal structures on dikes and gabions pose risks to the structure's integrity, potentially leading to increased flooding and related issues. He urged residents living near the river to refrain from constructing any form of extension or additional structure on the dikes, emphasizing the need to preserve their stability to prevent flooding and overflow. The PSSO does not have a specific target number of structures to dismantle, but rather identifies them during monitoring and inspection, working in coordination with barangays and purok leaders. Sumagaysay hopes that the public comprehends the purpose behind these dismantling efforts, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the dikes to mitigate flooding risks......»»
FPRRD opposes disguised Charter change initiative
Former President Rodrigo R. Duterte has vehemently opposed the disguised People’s Initiative for Charter change, denouncing the cash-for-signature campaign as repugnant and a disgraceful act during a YouTube interview with Banateros Brothers on January 22, 2024. Duterte emphasized his disapproval of the initiative, urging for it to be halted, particularly criticizing the payment of individuals to sign the documents. He warned that such actions could lead to a new Constitution that might destroy the nation and open avenues for political abuses. Duterte stressed the importance of democracy in the Philippines, asserting that those seeking to remain in power should go through the electoral process. He highlighted that a well-performing and non-corrupt individual would retain power, while those with poor performance would be ousted through the electoral process. Expressing satisfaction with the current Constitution, Duterte argued that it has contributed to stability, reducing conflicts with groups like the New People's Army (NPA). He strongly advised against meddling with the Constitution, cautioning that it would only bring trouble to the country. Duterte pledged active opposition to the initiative, stating that he would campaign against it. Additionally, residents of Calinan District, Vice President Sara Duterte, and Representatives Isidro Ungab and Paolo Pulong Duterte have also voiced opposition to the People's Initiative for Charter Change. Margarita Atty. Migs Nograles, the representative of the Pwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Partylist, alleged to have started the cha-cha signature campaign, has yet to issue an official statement on the matter as of the latest update. Related stories include the denouncement of alleged `vote buying’ in signing the petition for Cha-cha by Davao City lawmakers, Vice President Duterte's condemnation of the cash-for-signature drive, and a prayer rally against PI’s Cha-cha on Jan 28......»»
10th ID bashes Canadian gov’t for travel advisory vs Mindanao
The 10th Infantry Agila Division (10ID) of the Philippine Army criticized the Canadian government for issuing a travel advisory against all parts of Mindanao, which includes their area of responsibility. Major Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson for the 10th ID, emphasized that the regions under their jurisdiction are peaceful and free from terrorism and violent threats, contrary to the Canadian embassy's advisory. The division oversees 12 provinces, seven cities, and 72 municipalities in various parts of Mindanao. Tito expressed bewilderment at the basis of the travel advisory, asserting that the Canadian government lacks awareness of the actual situation on the ground. He highlighted the peaceful nature of the entire Davao Region throughout 2023, with no recorded incidents of terrorism or insurgency. Despite the exclusion of Davao City from the advisory, Tito noted that the region would still be impacted. The Canadian embassy's advisory warned its citizens to avoid visiting Mindanao due to ongoing terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, high levels of violence, and encounters between rebel forces and government security authorities. Specific provinces and regions were singled out for caution or non-essential travel, including Northern Mindanao, Soccsksargen, and Eastern Mindanao. Contrary to the advisory, the 10th ID has been actively weakening and eliminating guerilla forces within its jurisdiction as part of the Philippine Army's efforts to establish an insurgency-free zone. In fact, on October 27, 2023, the Davao Region celebrated its first anniversary as an insurgency-free region in the Philippines. This dispute has led to other related stories, including the Chamber's intention to engage in discussions with the Canadian government regarding the travel advisory, as well as refutations from the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and celebrations of the Davao Region's insurgency-free status by the Regional Peace and Order Council. In summary, the 10th ID vehemently opposes the Canadian government's travel advisory, citing the peaceful and secure nature of the regions under their jurisdiction, and highlighting the significant strides made in eradicating insurgency in the Davao Region......»»
OPM heavyweights to headline Aurora Music Fest
On top of the finest Original Pilipino Music acts that will headline the Aurora Music Festival 2024 on April 6 and 7 in Clark Global City, Pampanga, the event-goers can also marvel at the hot air balloons that will light up Clark’s skyline and savor Kapampangan food that will be available at the venue......»»
BARMM leaders buck Duterte’s secession call
Leaders of different sectors in the Bangsamoro region yesterday rejected former president Rodrigo Duterte’s call for Mindanao independence, asserting that they will never ruin the gains of their peace process with the national government......»»
Bangsamoro folks reject Duterte’s Mindanao independence call
People from different sectors in the Bangsamoro region on Friday blatantly rejected former President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for Mindanao independence, asserting that they will never ever ruin the gains of their peace process with the national government......»»
CTTMO heightens 20-sec rule for PUVs
The City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) in Davao City is intensifying the enforcement of the 20-second rule for public utility vehicles (PUVs) in loading/non-loading areas to alleviate traffic congestion during peak hours. CTTMO Head Dionisio Abude announced that 36 new traffic personnel will be assigned to monitor yellow boxes and ensure that PUVs, particularly jeepneys, do not exceed the 20-second limit in designated areas. Violators will be issued citation tickets for disregarding traffic signs, and those with expired or fake PUV IDs will face penalties. Additionally, the CTTMO is increasing efforts to curb illegally parked cars and urging drivers to keep intersections clear. These measures, along with the enforcement of the new speed limit policy, aim to promote safe and orderly traffic. Abude emphasized the importance of motorists' cooperation in respecting traffic rules and regulations for a disciplined and courteous driving environment......»»
Watch vivo V30 Series Grand Launch on March 20
Get ready for an electrifying event as vivo announces the grand launch of the highly anticipated vivo V30 Series on March 20, 2024. The V30 Series will feature the groundbreaking ZEISS Triple Main Camera system on the V30 Pro, promising unmatched clarity and detail in photos and videos. Viewers can join the excitement through the Facebook livestream, where they will also be treated to a special appearance by ambassador Anne Curtis. Industry experts will share their insights on the innovative features of the V30 Series, making this event a must-watch for photography enthusiasts. Don't miss out on this opportunity to witness the future of mobile photography. Follow vivo on various social media platforms for updates and exclusive content. (SPONSORED CONTENT).....»»
EGS to be sanctioned for walking out of game vs UC
CEBU CITY, Philippines— The Sinulog Executive Committee and the organizers of the Sinulog Cup 2024 Basketball Tournament will sanction EGS for walking out of their game on Thursday evening, January 25, 2024, at the Cebu City Sports Institute. In a statement released on Friday, January 26, by tournament commissioner Jake Mike Aton, they will impose.....»»
Delivery drivers urge Mayor Baste for business permit exemption
Title: Delivery Drivers Seek Exemption from Business Permit Requirement A group of delivery drivers in Davao is urging Mayor Sebastian Duterte to exempt them from the mandatory business permits. The drivers, including those from various delivery apps such as Grab and FoodPanda, are concerned about the financial burden imposed by the business permits, which range from P2,000 to P6,000. They argue that this requirement is unique to Davao City among all cities and provinces in the Philippines. Grab rider Rolando Atico emphasized the need for solidarity among all delivery drivers, regardless of the app they work for. He urged fellow drivers to support each other, as the financial impact may extend beyond just Grab and FoodPanda. Atico also requested Mayor Duterte to reconsider the requirement and reinstate the previous occupational permit, which only cost P125. The group is facing a 30-day deadline to obtain the business permits, and they are citing financial constraints as a reason for their request for an extension. Failure to comply could result in their removal from the delivery platforms, jeopardizing their livelihoods. Additionally, they are advocating for changes to Davao City's Revenue Code, proposing a model similar to Cebu City, where only an occupational permit is required. The drivers are also calling for an inquiry into the lack of transparency and unilateral actions of food delivery companies, particularly concerning rider capitalization and financial concerns. They believe that a thorough investigation will help ensure fairness and equity in their financial obligations and working relationship with the delivery companies. Maribel Paguican, the Business Bureau officer-in-charge, stated that non-certified delivery riders categorized as service contractors must obtain a business permit. She mentioned two permits for occupational and business activities, with a discounted structure for delivery riders. However, concerns have been raised about increased taxes, potentially ranging from P3,000 to P6,000, along with an additional tax on top of the declared income of P1,400. The delivery drivers' plea for exemption from the business permit requirement reflects their concerns about the financial impact and the potential threat to their livelihoods. Their call for solidarity and support from fellow drivers highlights the urgency of the situation. This story sheds light on the challenges faced by delivery drivers in Davao and the implications of the business permit requirement on their financial well-being. It also underscores their efforts to seek fairness and equity in their working relationship with the authorities and delivery companies......»»
Suarez closer to title shot
IBF No. 5 and WBO No. 9 superfeatherweight Charly Suarez endured testy moments in pounding out a unanimous eight-round decision over tough Luis Coria in Corpus Christi, Texas, last weekend but never complained, offering everything to the Lord as the King’s Warrior, his nom de guerre......»»
Groups urge to include placemaking in planning for public spaces
The push for placemaking in planning for public spaces was emphasized by various groups during a recent forum in Davao City. ATTY. Mark Peñalver, executive director of Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (Idis), stressed the importance of incorporating placemaking in public space planning to not only enhance the physical environment but also to promote inclusivity. He highlighted the exclusion of certain sectors in existing public spaces and emphasized the need for stakeholders' input and acknowledgment of their stories in the planning process. Dr. Derlie Mateo-Babiano, an associate professor in Urban Planning Assistant, described placemaking as a means to transform places into spaces that people will cherish. She emphasized the significance of engaging the community in the planning process to understand their cultural, environmental, and other needs. Peñalver also cited a successful placemaking project in Davao Executive Homes, which catered to children, the elderly, and individuals with special needs, demonstrating the positive impact of placemaking. Furthermore, Peñalver advocated for the institutionalization of placemaking in the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and other development plans in Davao City. He highlighted the potential of placemaking to ensure that government projects are beneficial to the community. Architect Harold Delima, co-convenor of Placemaking Davao, discussed ongoing workshops with various demographics to integrate placemaking into the city's development. The groups involved are hopeful that placemaking will become a fundamental aspect of public space planning in Davao City, aiming to create inclusive and community-centered environments......»»
Nermal nearly opted out
NLEX rookie Jhan Nermal never imagined he would someday play in the PBA back in his high school days in Kabankalan, Negros Occidental, when even cracking the intramural lineup was a challenge......»»
South Africa slams Israel at ICJ for genocidal acts
“Genocides are never declared in advance but this court has the benefit of the past 13 weeks of evidence that shows, incontrovertibly, a pattern of conduct and related intention that justifies a plausible claim of genocidal acts. The post South Africa slams Israel at ICJ for genocidal acts appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
If privileged, never feel entitled
While it’s true that we obviously are entitled to our rights, we should not feel entitled to privileges and favors that are above our rights and needs......»»
South Africa slams Israel at ICJ for genocidal acts
“Genocides are never declared in advance but this court has the benefit of the past 13 weeks of evidence that shows, incontrovertibly, a pattern of conduct and related intention that justifies a plausible claim of genocidal acts......»»