Live COVID-19 updates: Russia adds 9,221 cases
BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The following are the updates on the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. - - - - KUALA LUMPUR -- Malaysia recorded 1,360 new confirmed cases of C.....»»
Ilocos Sur’s Tela de Bonita makes inabel more accessible
The Philippines has a number of textile weaving cultures that live on, passed down from generations to generations in different regions. The Ilocanos of northern Luzon take pride in producing handwoven textiles in different weaving techniques and with several designs, collectively called inabel, an Ilocano word that generally means “something woven.” The beautiful and resilient textiles, woven out of cotton material, have been used to make attire and household items such as blankets. However, production of these textiles has dwindled over time as there are fewer and fewer weavers. Some point out that not much innovation has been put into its design to meet modern needs. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="182657,182658"] This led young Ilocana woman entrepreneur Mia Aguila to launch her line of products that incorporate traditional textiles and modern designs into beautiful and functional fashion and home items. “The business was born from my frustration in finding inabel items in Manila that were not affordable to budget-conscious buyers. I want to make this heirloom craft accessible to more Filipinos so that they can proudly own a piece of Ilocos Sur’s history and heritage,” she said. Aguila, who is a mother herself, said this is also her way of supporting the weavers of the Ilocano communities, as it offers them a source of income to help support their families. “They are mothers who can earn from home, when they are not busy looking after their families. We want to support the local economy with more opportunities for our women to be more empowered in financial decision making in their households,” she related. She plans to put all stages of production — from design and weaving to sewing — in Ilocos Sur. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="182656,182654"] Tela de Bonita introduces design innovations that offer practicality and functionality to fit into modern lifestyles. Among their products are slippers and bags that incorporate inabel, along with household items such as pillowcases, placemats and table runners. “One of our innovations is that we produce inabel sets, so that the pillowcases and table accents match, for example. This adds a luxurious and harmonious look to the living space,” Aguila explained. They have also added more detail to the designs such as adding tassels on throw pillow cases. Traditional textile patterns and designs usually depend on the town of their origins, and Aguila highlights the artisan’s designs with the use of color, ranging from the heritage color combinations that have been used since the Spanish era, to happy tropical hues, and even classy and timeless neutrals. [gallery size="full" columns="2" ids="182655,182652"] Aside from promoting heritage and history, Aguila also keeps sustainability in mind. Her line of T-shirts incorporates retasos or scraps of cloth left behind after being used. These give the shirts a fun and colorful patchwork effect. “I grew up with many inabel items at home, and I want to bring this tradition to the next generation. Through Tela de Bonita, I want to develop the skills of more women weavers and local designers, and I also want today’s youth to appreciate the art of inabel,” she said. Tela de Bonita was formally launched in a fashion show held last 1 May at Vigan City’s famous Calle Crisologo, part of the celebration of the Binatbatan Vigan Festival of the Arts. There are already plans for market expansion here and overseas. Products are available at the lobby of Hotel Felicidad in Vigan City and online through the official Tela De Bonita Facebook and Instagram pages. One can email address TelaDeBonita22@gmail.com. The post Ilocos Sur’s Tela de Bonita makes inabel more accessible appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Blowing whistle on cops
The Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group, or PNP-ACG, seems predisposed to taking shortcuts, and Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, fresh from a heart bypass, was livid about it Monday. Remulla minced no words in slamming the PNP-ACG’s failure to coordinate with the Department of Justice before conducting raids on POGO or Philippine offshore gaming operator firms in Las Piñas City. The DoJ chief’s frustration was palpable as he condemned the PNP-ACG’s approach. “Arresting people without cases. What, cases will be invented? The DoJ will not agree to that,” Remulla fumed. “They just raided… they just entered the premises, as if they were fishing.” Remulla raised the important point that many cases have remained pending due to lack of evidence, in most cases because of sloppy police work. In the POGO raids, he said the cops did not cite specific acts or grounds for arresting the individuals. According to Remulla, the booboo left the DoJ with no choice but to set free five Chinese nationals arrested during the raids for alleged involvement in human trafficking operations, pending reinvestigation. Many similar drug cases had been thrown out either at the prosecutorial level or before the courts for the failure of arresting officers to observe protocol, including having members of the media and the local prosecutor’s office present when processing arrested individuals and the evidence seized from them. The bungling of the Las Piñas raids raises questions about the competence and professionalism of the PNP-ACG. Furthermore, the PNP-ACG’s recent proposal to join POGO raids only adds to the confusion surrounding their intentions and actions. In a press conference, PNP-ACG chief P/Brig. Gen. Sidney Hernia suggested that police officers be included in inspections of POGOs. However, one cannot help but question the reason behind this request. Does the PNP-ACG truly believe that its presence would enhance the effectiveness of these inspections, or is it simply an attempt to exert control and create the impression that the Philippines is a police state? The dangers of the latter scenario cannot be overstated. A police force that overreaches its authority and encroaches upon the rights of individuals and businesses fosters an environment of fear and distrust. We must be cautious not to allow our country to slide down a path where citizens are constantly under surveillance and their rights are infringed upon in the name of law enforcement. Hernia’s proposal came on the heels of the PNP-ACG’s recent “rescue” of around 3,000 Filipino and foreign workers in raids on Las Piñas City POGO firms allegedly involved in human trafficking and other illegal activities. Make no mistake about it, all illegal POGOs should go and those behind them prosecuted. Just the same, Hernia’s suggestion in the face of the dressing down the PNP has received from Secretary Remulla raises concerns about his unit’s approach and its potential ramifications for those involved in the POGO industry, especially those operating legally. The controversy surrounding the PNP-ACG has naturally trained the spotlight on the whole PNP, which has been touting high crime solution efficiency — 81.78 percent in 2022. However, the real question is how many of these “solved crimes” have resulted in convictions. If that’s too much to ask for, let’s dumb it down a bit: How many of the complaints filed by the PNP are ultimately adopted by prosecutors and filed in court? A high crime solution efficiency rate may provide a sense of accomplishment, but it does not necessarily guarantee justice or the successful prosecution of criminals. The PNP’s claimed efficiency in solving crimes must be accompanied by a commitment to thorough investigations, the gathering of compelling evidence, and the successful prosecution of offenders. Without these elements, the high crime solution efficiency rate becomes a hollow metric. In light of these stories, it becomes apparent that the PNP-ACG’s actions are cause for concern. Their failure to coordinate with the DoJ, their lack of proffered evidence, and their questionable proposals raise doubts about their commitment to serve and protect. We must demand better from our law enforcement agencies. We deserve a police force that respects the rule of law, values evidence-based investigations, and prioritizes the protection of citizens’ rights. The post Blowing whistle on cops appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Davao health workers, seniors get jabs
DAVAO CITY — The local government here — through its City Health Office — has launched the third bivalent booster dose vaccination for healthcare workers and senior citizens at the People’s Park. In a statement, Monday, Dr. Paul Marvin Mañosa, the district health physician and in-charge of the People’s Park Vaccination, said they started giving the jabs on 1 July and the bivalent dose can be availed of by those who are eligible by presenting their identification cards. “The health care workers and our senior citizens are the only ones allowed to be given with this as long as they were vaccinated with the first and second doses and two booster doses,” Mañosa said. He added that they will be accommodated, regardless of the vaccine brand administered to them for their booster doses. Mañosa also said that the People’s Park Vaccination hub has more than 3,900 doses of bivalent Pfizer vaccine and they will continue with the vaccination until supplies last. “As long as they received four doses and four months from their second booster, they are already eligible for the third booster dose,” said Mañosa. “We encourage everyone to avail of this booster, those who are eligible, as it adds protection for you. As of the moment, Covid-19 cases are less serious but at least this will give added protection, especially to our senior citizens.” The post Davao health workers, seniors get jabs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sekaya’s way to healthy eating
Make the most out of these easygoing months by staying healthy and nourishing the body with wholesome food choices. Filipino plant-based brand Sekaya, and Dr. Eca Lorenzo, internal medicine specialist and functional medicine practitioner, suggest tweaks on our daily eating habits that can help energize us throughout summer. Take advantage of fresh produce. April and May are when produce is at its peak. “During this time, you notice that local in-season fruits like mango, guyabano, coconut, rambutan, santol, pomelo, and pineapple are more readily available at your favorite grocery stores and markets. This can help add more color and variety to your plates, allowing you to get as many nutrients as possible,” shares Lorenzo. “It’s also great to keep yourself well-hydrated by adding in more vegetables with high water content like lettuce, tomato, broccoli, spinach, and eggplant to what you eat.” Go for lighter meals. On warm days, the digestive system may become slow as more energy is being spent to keep the body from overheating. “Avoid eating heavy meals this summer to give your digestive system a chance to keep up with everything that’s going on in your body,” Lorenzo suggests. “Remember to control your portions and to take your time chewing your food to avoid bloating.” Choose your cold treats wisely. Instead of ice creams and sugary beverages, try having fruit smoothies or botanically infused drinks. “Sugar can actually lead to dehydration when consumed in high volumes,” Lorenzo warns. “Drinking water is still the best way to quench your thirst. But if you want something more flavorful, it’s best to choose the healthy route by making smoothies with the freshest fruits and without added sugar or add ice to your favorite botanical infusions.” Sekaya Botanical Infusion, the plant-based brand’s line of botanical blends made from organic ingredients with wellness benefits like easing digestive issues and boosting immunity, can also be added to one’s hydration fix. Just steep a bag or two in freshly boiled water and infuse for three to four minutes, then add ice or put it inside the fridge for a refreshing healthy drink. Observe food safety practices. Lorenzo reminds that cases of food poisoning and gastroenteritis can be quite common during summertime. “Food poisoning and gastroenteritis due to bacteria or virus have similar symptoms like an upset stomach and vomiting. Both are caused by unhygienic or contaminated food and water,” she adds. “Prevent this from happening by following food prep standards like washing your hands when handling ingredients, making sure fruits and veggies are washed before eating, and ensuring that meat is cooked through. Also, avoid leaving food and water out for hours, especially under the heat of the summer sun.” The post Sekaya’s way to healthy eating appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Philippines adds 9,671 more COVID-19 cases
Health authorities on Sunday reported 9,671 new coronavirus cases to push the country's total to 1,668,916......»»
Live COVID-19 updates: Russia adds 9,221 cases
BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The following are the updates on the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. - - - - KUALA LUMPUR -- Malaysia recorded 1,360 new confirmed cases of C.....»»
DOH adds 1,790 coronavirus cases as tally reaches 537,310
It has been 327 days since the enhanced community quarantine was first hoisted. The Philippines is still under the world's longest lockdown. .....»»
DOH adds 2,103 coronavirus cases as tally breaches 525,000
Daily cases continue to number in the thousands. Just the day before, the department recorded 2,109 COVID-19 cases. .....»»
DOH adds 1,906 coronavirus cases as tally breaches 487,000
(Updated) The country's coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caseload hit 487,690 Sunday after the Department of Health logged another 1,906 infections......»»
Mandaue City adds 8 active cases to its list on Jan. 8
MANDAUE CITY, Cebu – Eight more active cases were reported in Mandaue City on Friday, January 8. This increases to 51 the total number of active cases here. The city also logged 2, 371 recoveries and 172 COVID-related deaths, data released by the Public Information Office (PIO) show. Three of the city’s new cases are […] The post Mandaue City adds 8 active cases to its list on Jan. 8 appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cops reminded to maintain close contact diary as PNP adds 30 more COVID-19 cases
“This diary enables us to immediately identify and isolate every person that made close contact with our personnel in case any of them would become positive from the virus. We in the PNP already have a contact-tracing method based on the diary,” said Eleazar......»»
Philippines adds 886 new COVID-19 cases as total hits 471,526
Tuesday’s additional cases pushed the country’s caseload to 471,526, of which 5% are people undergoing treatment and quarantine......»»
Coronavirus cases reach 459,000; DOH adds 1,754 new cases
Health authorities added 1,754 new cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 on Sunday, bringing the national caseload to 459,789......»»
DOH adds 9,062 recoveries as total coronavirus cases eclipse 439,000
(Updated) Accounting for total deaths and recoveries, there are still 22,646 remaining active COVID-19 cases in hospitals and quarantine centers around the country. .....»»
Live COVID-19 updates: Russia adds 24,581 new cases
BEIJING, Nov. 22 (Xinhua) -- The following are the updates on the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. - - - - MOSCOW -- Russia has recorded 24,581 more COVID-19 infections ove.....»»
Philippines coronavirus cases eclipse 418,000; DOH adds 10,957 recoveries
It has been 250 days since the initial enhanced community quarantine was hoisted over Metro Manila, and the Philippines is still under the world's longest quarantine. .....»»
US adds 1 million Covid cases in less than a week
Washington, United States—The US surpassed 11 million coronavirus cases Sunday, November 15, 2020, adding one million new cases in less than a week, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. The dizzying rise came as cities and states across the United States were implementing new restrictions to try to halt the spread of […] The post US adds 1 million Covid cases in less than a week appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Coronavirus cases in the Philippines breach 407,000; DOH adds 11,290 recoveries
Over eight months since the community quarantines have been imposed, the national government is still struggling with curbing the spread of the pandemic, recording thousands of cases per day. .....»»
Philippines adds 2,058 new COVID-19 cases; total now at 398,449
Total recoveries accounted for around 91% of the country’s confirmed cases. Meanwhile, the death toll hit 7,647......»»
DOH adds 11,430 recoveries as total cases breach 396,000-mark
Over eight months since the community quarantines have been imposed, the national government is still struggling with curbing the spread of the pandemic, recording thousands of cases per day. .....»»