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Progressive groups: Youths are facing ‘educational crisis’
Progressive groups have raised concerns over what they are calling an educational crisis facing the youth. They argue that this crisis is threatening the right to free and quality education. During the 160th commemoration of Andres Bonifacio's birth, Anakbayan Southern Mindanao spokesperson Beverly Gofredo highlighted the low allocation for state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the proposed budget for 2024. Gofredo stated that this has resulted in budget cuts for 36 out of 117 SUCs, including the University of the Philippines-Mindanao (UP-Min) and the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) in the Davao Region. In response to these concerns, various groups staged a protest in Davao City, calling for the government to address the issue. The groups also expressed their opposition to the mandatory Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) and the attacks on academic freedom. Additionally, they called for the government to halt the implementation of the Jeepney Modernization Program and to declare an unconditional ceasefire in Palestine. The rally in Davao City was reported to have been peaceful, with no untoward incidents......»»
Marcos’ Bonifacio Day message: Love and serve your country
In a speech delivered by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Marcos called on Filipinos to be “modern-day heroes” to commemorate the 160th birth anniversary of Bonifacio......»»
New mission: BuCor reform
Following his tenure as chief of staff in the Armed Forces of the Philippines in 2015, retired four-star General Gregorio Pio Catapang chose to settle in Pampanga. Here, he embraced a simpler life as a farmer, relishing in the delights of native chicken, fresh produce, and the serene natural surroundings. “I am an environmentalist, so I decided to stay in Arayat, Pampanga, to be a farmer upon my retirement in October 2015, and I prayed, ‘Lord, it has been mission accomplished, so give me a new mission,’” Catapang narrated. The former military chief, the AFP’s 45th from July 2014 to 2015, is not a stranger to close encounters with mortality. Throughout his extensive service in the Philippine Army, from graduating from the Philippine Military Academy in 1981, he has endured several clashes with enemies, even more than one could count with the fingers. He held major positions in the AFP as commander of the 2nd Infantry Division — the Army’s largest unit, 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, 703 Infantry Brigade, and 28th Infantry Brigade, among others. He also served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, J3, of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. His rise to prominence was not without hitches because he barely survived nine brushes with death. His strong faith in the Lord enabled him to be alive today. “The first incident that I encountered that almost ended my life was when I fell from the second floor of our house when I was just a kid; the second was when I was in the field where a provincial bus liner rammed the car I was in,” Catapang said. He was airlifted from Basa Airbase to V. Luna General Hospital and eventually transferred to Quezon City Medical City as he continued to bleed due to his severe injuries. “The doctor told me not to sleep because I might turn into a coma. So I fight on as the doctors continue to treat me,” he added. While still recovering, with his facial wounds still not yet fully healed, he was called by his commander to report back to work. “Nakangiwi pa ako dahil sa sugat (I was still grimacing in pain), but as a soldier, I followed the order, and that was then I realized that he was teaching me how to become chief of staff,” Catapang said, adding that as a good soldier, he had to endure the pain. He recalled that a chopper ride in the mountains of Cagayan also nearly took his life as it flew at 1,000 feet and traveled 18 knots. “The chopper is already old. I just have to make the sign of the cross as the chopper made a low-altitude flight due to poor visibility. We plunged downward, and I thought it was the end for me. But thankfully, the chopper normalized, and we safely landed,” he said. While in a restaurant in Angeles, Pampanga, Catapang said he was informed that NPA (New People’s Army) rebels would ambush him. “We ate at a chicken restaurant in Angeles and received information that I would be ambushed on returning to our camp. It was retaliation for the death of eight commanders of the NPA after movement patterns were detected based on information from barangay chairpersons,” he said. He cannot forget, too, that during the Pinatubo eruption in 1991, the roof of the building they were occupying collapsed due to the accumulated volcanic ash. Catapang, named after two generals — Gregorio del Pilar and Pio del Pilar — led his soldiers in helping the indigenous peoples in the area, giving them food, clothing, and other necessities. “The natives very loved us because of that,” he added. He said he is thankful to have emerged victorious and alive from the all-out war against Muslim secessionists in Mindanao. It almost ended his life, but he survived with solid faith in the Lord. Throughout his life, he consistently believed that prayers are always answered, particularly when reciting the rosary. Proof was when he fervently prayed to the Lord to allow him to marry his first girlfriend, and his request was granted. He married Maria Lourdes and has three children. Catapang’s early life lacked the excitement it later encompassed. He was a typical teenager. He attended high school at the Claret School of Quezon City. Shortly after graduating from PMA, he pursued graduate courses at the University of the Philippines. He is the second of four children of Gregorio Catapang Sr., a lawyer for the Securities and Exchange Commission, and Lourdes Punzalan, an accountant at the Department of Finance, from whom he learned the value of public service. As a military officer, Catapang rallied the troops to strictly adhere to the AFP’s slogan of “Kawal DISIPLINADO, bawal ABUSADO, dapat ASINTADO” — three key words that spell out the Do’s and DON’T’s to become proficient in fire and maneuver and avoid collateral damage; be respectful of human rights, adhere to international humanitarian law and the rule of law, and the rules of engagement. Catapang moved on with his career and retirement life, carrying an excellent performance standard, exemplary leadership and a keen vision. Answered post-retirement prayer After retiring from active military service spanning 34 years, he received a divine blessing through a new mission. Following seven years of working as a farmer, he experienced a life-altering moment on the evening of October 19, 2021. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla gave him an offer to lead the Bureau of Corrections. Unaware of the challenges that awaited him within the BuCor, especially at the New Bilibid Prison, he accepted the offer. It was only later that he discovered the appalling issues of corruption among the prison staff and the dire condition of the overcrowded facilities. Under the guidance of Secretary Remulla, Catapang’s mission to reform the BuCor is yielding positive results. They are actively organizing culminating activities to release eligible individuals who have been deprived of their liberty. To alleviate the overcrowding in the jail facilities, the BuCor is actively organizing and implementing various reforms. The main goal is to transfer all persons deprived of liberty from the maximum security compound of the NBP to new facilities outside of Metro Manila. Catapang is confident plans will come to fruition, as they have already presented their long-term reform plan to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for approval. “At present, the reformation of BuCor is in full swing. I am confident we will accomplish and make things happen,” he said. The NBP, he said, is undergoing a significant transformation. The plan is to shut down the NBP in Muntinlupa and repurpose the area into a new business district similar to Bonifacio Global City in the southern part of Metro Manila. Explaining the reason behind the decision, he said high-end residential communities surround the current location of the NBP in Muntinlupa. To align with the surrounding environment, the intention is to close down the NBP and relocate all inmates to regional jail facilities nationwide. Catapang shared plans to dedicate eight hectares of land within the NBP to improve the living conditions of the settlers and provide them with opportunities for reintegration into society. “We will build condominium units for the settlers at the NBP, complete with amenities like a swimming pool, multipurpose facilities, and the like. Repair of residential houses is no longer possible, including power lines, so we decided to allocate the lands for them,” he added. The government will optimally use the land area by developing it into a business and government center, aligning with the DoJ’s plan. To support the food security initiatives of the President, he said they have already started the cultivation of approximately 10 hectares of land at the Iwahig Penal Colony. The aim is to grow rice and high-yield crops, contributing to the government’s long-term food security plans. “Hopefully, this will be done also to other penal farms of BuCor because we have ample lands for cultivation,” Catapang said. For the BuCor Director General who refused to be defined by limitations and setbacks, the relentless spirit and passion for reforms radiate triumphs against the most formidable odds. The post New mission: BuCor reform appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Las Piñas kitchen for children rolls out
The so-called “Kusina ng Las Piñas” at Castillo Compound Barangay Pamplona 2, Florante, Bonifacio and Trinidad Street, Barangay Pamplona 1, Las Piñas City has rolled out. The activity, which is dubbed as an Auxiliary Feeding Program, is an initiative of the Las Piñas City government led by Mayor Imelda T. Aguilar and Vice Mayor April Aguilar and the City Council. A total of 600 individuals specifically children were provided with nutritious “Rice Topping: Picadillo with Boiled Egg” and a bottled water prepared by Nutritionist- Dietitians and Barangay Nutrition Scholars. Through the Las Piñas City Nutrition Office, headed by OIC/City Nutrition Action Officer Dr. Julio P. Javier II, in cooperation with Barangay Nutrition action officer and barangay health workers. The activity aims to address malnutrition in the city among children and teach their parents on how to prepare nutritious foods. The mayor said they will continue the nutrition program in the whole city to stave off problems in connection with malnutrition. The post Las Piñas kitchen for children rolls out appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Las Piñas rolls out kitchen for children
The so-called “Kusina ng Las Piñas” was rolled out in Las Piñas City. This auxiliary feeding program activity is an initiative of the Las Piñas city government, led by Mayor Imelda T. Aguilar, Vice Mayor April Aguilar, and the City Council. It was held at Castillo Compound, Brgy. Pamplona 2; and Florante, Bonifacio, and Trinidad Streets, Brgy. Pamplona 1. A total of 600 individuals, specifically children, were provided with nutritious rice toppings (picadillo with boiled egg) and bottled water prepared by nutritionists-dietitians and barangay nutrition scholars through the Las Piñas City Nutrition Office, headed by OIC/City Nutrition Action Officer Dr. Julio P. Javier II, in cooperation with barangay nutrition action officer and barangay health workers. The activity aims to address malnutrition in the city among children and teach their parents how to prepare nutritious foods. The mayor said they will continue the nutrition program in the whole city to stave off problems in connection with malnutrition. The post Las Piñas rolls out kitchen for children appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A tribute to people working behind the scenes
Audiences always see the work that the actors, and rest of the cast — the so-called front-liners of a production — put into a successful performance, but they seldom are aware of the “backliners” — the backstage and production crew — who also spent time and energy on the production. As the cast receives applause and adulation, the behind-the-scenes crew often goes unnoticed — the costume designer who works on the fittings and alterations, the technical staff who makes sure that the lighting and sound system works, the production people who make the artistic vision come alive with their hammers, paint brushes, etc. Some take great pride in their backstage work such as Annie Ignacio and Amado Bonifacio III, who are in production design for the Cultural Center of the Philippines. A theater arts graduate of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Ignacio first encountered CCP when she was invited as a performer for Pasinaya: The CCP Open House Festival, the country’s largest multi-arts festival happening every February. After hearing great things about CCP from her friends who have been working at the premier cultural institution, she decided to try her luck and inquired about a job opening. Weeks later, she started her new job as part of the theater crew at the Production Design Center. Later on, she was promoted as a draftsman. [caption id="attachment_185925" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Amado Bonifacio III prepares a production’s scale model with his mentor Manong Junior.[/caption] Bonifacio, meanwhile, recalled undergoing an on-the-job training at CCP in 2016, a requirement to finish his engineering degree at the University of Manila. Two years later, in 2018, he became a reliever for one of the theater crewmembers. He was later tasked to supervise the layout of the CCP’s Christmas decorations. Ignacio and Bonifacio both trained under Francisco M. Galvero Jr., or “Manong Junior” to people he worked with. For more than five decades until his retirement last year, Manong Junior remained the only scenic painter of the CCP. After watching him create huge sets for different CCP productions, the mentees started shadowing this master. They would always see Manong Junior doing the scale models and then bringing these miniatures into life-sized sets and sceneries. Curiosity led Ignacio to this path. She would ask questions, inquire about the process of producing sets, find out how to make things realistic and experiment with colors and textures to make the design come alive, among others. “While working with Manong Junior, I noticed his hands. I told him that his hands look like my father’s hands,” shared Ignacio in an interview. Bonifacio added that Manong Junior served as a father figure to him and his fellow workers. “As a mentor, he gave us artistic freedom to explore. He allowed us to express our creativity, but he would appraise our works and rectify what we’d done wrong in a very patient way,” he said. Being a backstage crewmember has its share of ups and downs. Sometimes, several productions are scheduled simultaneously, with everything happening all at once. When these happen, the workload could become overwhelming for the crew. “There was a time when work piled up. We didn’t know what we should do first. My mind went blank, and I just cried. But after that, I returned to work as if nothing happened,” said Ignacio. Bonifacio noted a similar experience. “Even if we don’t want to, the nature of the work forces us to be workaholics. Things could get stressful and tiring, but we love what we are doing. That’s why we are still here.” For them, work does not feel like work. They find fulfillment in seeing what they worked hard for and pour their hearts into it. Ignacio’s biggest achievement to date was creating the now-iconic eye balloon for the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2019. The work was displayed at the CCP Main Building Grand Staircase and became an instant hit as an Instagrammable spot among film enthusiasts. She also did the realistic bibingka and puto bumbong props for Tuloy Ang Pasko. These involved trials and errors, and hearing the compliments and receiving recognition made it all worthwhile. She said, “Manong Junior always told us not to be afraid to keep trying and make mistakes.” [caption id="attachment_185927" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Francisco M. Galvero Jr., with his apprentice Annie Ignacio, preparing the set for a ballet production.[/caption] Bonifacio, who takes pride in his work with the Art House Cinema facade decor and Sinag: Festival of Lights, reveals that he doesn’t see himself as an artist. It was only when his mentor Manong Junior recognized him as an artist that he started pondering about his work. They know that backstage work is rarely recognized, but CCP is paying homage to these unsung heroes through a series of mini-documentaries by filmmaker Joseph Mangat, Backstage Pass. Launched during Cinemalaya 19, the second installment features Manong Junior, who had been working on sets for various CCP productions since the early 1980s. The first release featured the technical theater crew in the lights and flying sections. More Backstage Pass episodes will feature the CCP film technicians, sound crew and costume custodians, as well as venue booking and front-of-house operations. The series also gives viewers a glimpse of the lesser-known careers in cinema and theater work. The post A tribute to people working behind the scenes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Man shot dead while playing ‘tong-its’
A 43-year-old man died after he was shot by his neighbor following a heated argument while playing a card game called “tong-its” early dawn Monday in an alley at Gate 4 Area C, Parola Compound Tondo, Manila. The victim, identified as Francis Leonoras, was declared dead-on-arrival at the Gat Andres Bonifacio Memorial Medical Center. The suspect, on the other hand, was identified as Darwin Vargas, of legal age, and ia neighbor of the victim. According to PSMS Jansen Rey San Pedro, of the Manila Police District-Homicide Section, the incident occurred at around 2 a.m. at the said place. It was learned that the victim was playing tong-its when the suspect arrived and surprisingly shot the victim from behind, hitting him at the back of the head. The suspect then quickly fled to an undetermined direction. It was later found out that the suspect had an old grudge against the victim. The remains of the victim was brought to Cruz Funeral for autopsy and safekeeping while police were on a manhunt against the suspect. The post Man shot dead while playing ‘tong-its’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Have faith, Bar examinees urged
With nine days remaining before the first part of the 2023 bar examinations commences, Associate Justice Ramon Paul Hernando urged examinees to have faith in themselves and remember their whys. As per the guidelines of the Supreme Court, the bar examinations will be held on 17, 20 and 24 September 2023. Hernando, the Bar Exams chair, called on the aspiring lawyers to believe in their own power and resolve and to appreciate themselves and their efforts. “You have read innumerable pages of law readings, endured sleepless nights and years of law school recitation and examination, made sacrifices, and conquered your self-doubt and challenges to reach this point,” he said. Hernando said making it this far is already remarkable and something to be proud of and they should use this “jubilant spirit” to conquer their doubts. “Let it propel you forward and closer to your dreams. Have faith in yourselves and reap the bounties of your hard work and perseverance,” he said. And if they do face struggles in this journey, they should think about their “why,” the reason for wanting to pursue a career in law, the magistrate said. Hernando said,“Your ‘why’ is your beginning, your end, your core, and your North Star. Think of the reason why you started in the very first place, and why you held on for so long. See your ‘why’ in your loved ones.” The SC associate justice said when the bar examinees that in their mind, their goals will be clearer. “Look at, not how much further you need to go, but at how far you have come,” he added. They must remain optimistic, Hernando said. He added until they scale the wall and go the distance they must not lose hope and they should rest but not stop. “We want you to succeed. Believe that you will succeed. Believe that you are meant for this. We await the moment that you finally cross the Bar,” he said. The examinations will be held in 14 local testing centers nationwide. The LTCs in the National Capital Region will be at the San Beda University, Manila; University of Santo Tomas, Manila; SBCA; University of the Philippines, Quezon City; Manila Adventist College, Pasay City; and University of the Philippines, Bonifacio Global City. The post Have faith, Bar examinees urged appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
EMBOs, BGC belong to Pateros — Ponce
Not so fast, Taguig City. Hold off on the celebratory toasts and the victory cigars. Pateros Mayor Fernando Miguel “Ike” Ponce asserted yesterday that Taguig City cannot as yet celebrate a Supreme Court ruling that handed it control over the 10 so-called enlisted men’s barrios, or EMBOs. Likewise, the Cayetanos of Taguig should refrain from counting on the revenues the city could get from Bonifacio Global City after the SC stripped Makati City of control over it and the EMBOs. For Mayor Ponce, the EMBOs and BGC, built on military reservations that the national government allegedly took from the town decades back, belong neither to Taguig nor Makati but to Pateros. “Actually, in the oldest map that we hold, it’s clear that jurisdiction over BGC (and the EMBOs) lies with Pateros because they’re inside our town,” Ponce told Dyaryo Tirada’s digital show Hot Patatas on Friday. “That’s very clear from the original map,” he added in Filipino, stressing that they have strong evidence showing that the 10 EMBOs were in Pateros, which had original jurisdiction up to the foot of Guadalupe Bridge straddling the boundary of Mandaluyong City. He said their proof would support their entitlements to BGC, the EMBOs, and the areas near Guadalupe. “That (Guadalupe) would be inside our boundaries (based on the original map),” he asserted. 1800s onward Ponce said that dating back to the 1800s, Pateros had a land area of 1,040 hectares based on official government data, including from the agency that preceded the Philippine Statistics Authority. “Even if you go now to the PSA, they’ll certify our land area to be 1,040 hectares,” the mayor pointed out. “If we go back through history, from the 1800s up to the present, you will see the actual areas of Pateros.” He said the town’s land area had been fluctuating since then from 1,040 hectares to 983 hectares and then 843 hectares. “If you would believe it, our land area now in Pateros is only 168 hectares,” he lamented. Ponce said that from 1,040 hectares, Pateros’ land area shrunk to 168 hectares because the national government converted their territory into a military reservation, starting Taguig’s efforts to take Pateros’ land. When the military reservations were returned, they were not given back to their “rightful owner, Pateros,” the mayor said. He said the Armed Forces of the Philippines, which used the military reservations, and the Office of the President, as the representative of the national government, should have returned the land to Pateros. “Yes, that’s true. Let’s include the national government as represented by the Office of the President,” he said, explaining that a proclamation by then-President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. opened the military reservations to public disposition but erroneously identified the areas as belonging to the then-town of Makati. “That’s the proclamation that both Pateros and Taguig wanted to nullify,” he said, referring to Proclamation 2475, signed by Marcos Sr. in January 1986, which stated that Fort Bonifacio “is situated in Makati and it is open for disposition.” Fight with Taguig Because of that proclamation, Makati, Taguig, and Pateros had a boundary dispute dating back to the 1990s when Pateros sought the return of the land that belonged to it, Ponce said. Among the EMBOs are Comembo, Pembo, East Rembo, West Rembo, Cembo, South Cembo, Pitogo and Rizal, which became part of Makati and BGC (known then as Post Proper Northside and Post Proper Southside of Makati; and Mamanca, Masilang, San Nicolas and Malapad Na Bato belonging to Pateros). Ponce said all of the facts can be gleaned from the documents and official maps secured by former Pateros Councilor Dominador Rosales from libraries and agencies, including the US Library of Congress and American archives. Among the documents is the 1968 Land Classification Map of the Bureau of Land, which is central to the case filed by Pateros against Taguig that has remained pending in the Supreme Court. “As the land that had been awarded to Taguig and Makati is already out of the issue, we are now concentrating on our fight with Taguig,” Ponce said. “Our case is very much alive, and Taguig has filed a motion for reconsideration. I believe their motion would not amount to anything because all they have are rehashed arguments,” the mayor added. Pateros is the only town among the 16 cities comprising Metro Manila or the National Capital Region. Pateros’ history and land are so intertwined with Taguig that they share a common representative in Congress. The post EMBOs, BGC belong to Pateros — Ponce appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cooking is in his Spanish blood
Sometime in 2017, a veterinarian from the province of Valencia in Spain went on vacation with three of his best friends to the island of Siargao in the Philippines. They enjoyed surfing a lot and fell in love with the place so hard that by the end of their 15-day holiday, they promised to return and even considered relocating. [caption id="attachment_178310" align="aligncenter" width="1707"] CHEF Luis Martinez | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF DOñA ELENA[/caption] A year later, the four amigos made their “final decision.” They made the big move to Siargao and “luckily” found work. The veterinarian, though, ended up becoming a chef and opened a restaurant he called Alma. Then the pandemic struck and, soon, a super typhoon hit the island. The newbie chef had to close down his first culinary venture. Fast-forward to 2023: Chef Luis Martinez is coolly directing his staff at Terraza Martinez restaurant in Bonifacio Global City this late morning of 30 August for an event in collaboration with Doña Elena brand of olive oil. He then introduces the menu he’s specially prepared for the media representatives covering the event. Martinez maintains his coolness as he sits down for an interview with DAILY TRIBUNE and another publication. He says his three friends of 35 years who came with him to Siargao six years ago are still on the island. “We’ve known each other for 35 years. I have my little family from Spain here.” Back in Spain, he has his parents, four siblings and other relatives that make up his “core family” of 25 members who can all cook. He fondly remembers growing up bonding with his family around the kitchen “cooking, eating, drinking wine” particularly every Sunday and on Christmas. He mentions a couple of his comfort food, such as paella, which traces some of its origins in Valencia, and cocido, a beef soup that he likens to the Pinoy bulalo. That’s how Martinez learned how to cook around age nine. “I never studied culinary arts. I never worked in a kitchen before. My first kitchen was Siargao three years ago. Now, this one,” he says of Terraza Martinez, which he set up in 2022 with the Nikkei Group that runs several restaurants. He also admits to making a lot of mistakes along the way of his trial-and-error ways while trying a lot of flavors. [gallery size="full" columns="2" ids="178311,178312"] In terms of culinary, he says he brings “almost everything” of the Spain he grew up into Terraza Martinez. “My idea is I want to make our guests to feel like having lunch or dinner in Spain,” he explains, “with the same kind of ambience, with the same kind of essence where you have a little of tapas, paella, where you can enjoy not only the food but the company of your friends and the comfort of the food. So I’m trying to bring some Spanish culture here as we eat there.” Martinez turns candid when asked about his observations of Filipino cuisine: “The flavors are a little bit sweet than we’re used to. Also, I need to put a little bit less of what I’ll put in Spain. I use a little bit of sugar to make it a little sweet. “I need to adjust, yes. When I opened my first place, I got a lot of complaints because they were saying my food was little bit salty. They were expecting a little bit of sweetness. So I need to adjust, yes. Even here in Terraza Martinez. It has a little bit of Filipino taste.” The chef, for instance, had to take out gazpacho, a cold soup, from the menu because Filipinos tend to prefer hot soups. Overall, though, the reception to Terraza Martinez has been overwhelmingly positive by diners who are made up of “90 percent Filipinos and 10 percent foreigners.” This makes Martinez truly “surprised and happy,” saying, “I wasn’t expecting this a lot of people. All our customers really like the place. They like the food. For me, because I’m the chef, wow!” Next on the chef’s plate is a new restaurant in Siargao he hopes to open soon. That means he’ll be dividing his time, about 15 days each, in Siargao and in Manila. Spain can wait in the meantime. “I try to visit my family and friends every two months, maximum three… I spend summer here because right now I’m opening a restaurant, so I cannot go.” Meantime, Martinez continues to learn more about the Philippines with some help from his Filipina girlfriend, who’s teaching him a bit of the national language. He also picks up words here and there from conversations. He also looks forward to surfing in Siargao, but, when he’s in Manila, just swims and has recently taken up boxing to burn the calories he consumes eating. The post Cooking is in his Spanish blood appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AFP confirms 85% of monitored foreign vessels in WPS/SCS Chinese-owned
Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. confirmed that 85 percent of the more than 400 foreign vessels monitored sailing within the South China Sea are Chinese-owned ships. "Well, at any one time, in the entire South China Sea, there are more than 400 na mga foreign vessels, these include fishing vessels, research vessels, Coast Guard and the Navies of other countries," the AFP chief told reporters reporters in a chance interview shortly after the National Heroes Day event at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. During Brawner’s visit to the AFP’s Western Command headquarters in Palawan five days after the water cannon incident involving Chinese Coast Guard and Philippine vessels in Ayungin Shoal last 5 August, WesCom chief Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos also confirmed that 85 percent of these monitored vessels in the West Philippine Sea are likely Chinese fishing ships. Carlos noted that about 191 of these vessels are in the vicinity of the Chinese-occupied Mischief Reef, which is about 134 nautical miles from Palawan and 602 nautical miles from China. The AFP earlier stressed that the Mischief Reef is a low-tide elevation, like Ayungin Shoal, that forms part of the country’s exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro earlier called on China not to pressure the Philippines within its own EEZ and stop building Chinese structures in the West Philippine Sea if they really want to resolve the increasing maritime tensions. "Nanawagan din tayo sa China na sana makipagtulungan din sila na tigilan yung tension, papaano naman ‘yun eh pinapatigil nila tayo eh wala naman tigil yung pananakop nila. Simple naman sakin 'yun, okay naman makipag usap eh basta tabla (We call on the China to cooperate with us to stop the tension. They want us to stop yet they also keep on encroaching. For me it's simple, we talk with them but it has to fair),” Teodoro previously said. The post AFP confirms 85% of monitored foreign vessels in WPS/SCS Chinese-owned appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hero within all of us doesn’t make the news
Often remembered only when their special day is marked, the nation's heroes deserve more than passing mention in a two to three-paragraph story either buried in the inside pages or turning up in a rehashed editorial or opinion piece. It's that time of the year again when many of us take a day – or a long weekend off – for beach bums or sun worshippers, or take the occasion to do our laundry, declutter closets, reunite with old friends or relatives, catch up with reading books you meant to curl up with on a rainy day, or the time when you give your pet dog a shampoo and a brisk rubdown. It is a day all wage-earners look forward to because it means extra holiday pay or a fatter paycheck. In short, except for their kin and descendants of their closest friends who attend obligatory rites at national shrines, we often take our heroes for granted, storing them temporarily in the dustbins of history, only to be resurrected at the next celebration of National Heroes Day or Araw ng Mga Bayani. Students recite their names by rote only to pass history or related subject tests, mouthing facts and figures without paying attention to their meaning or importance in the Philippine setting. Bonifacio, Rizal, Aguinaldo, Mabini, Antonio and Juan Luna, Gabriela and Diego Silang, Jose Abad Santos, Josefa Llanes-Escoda, Maria Orosa, Gen. Vicente Lim, and countless others. Youngsters often recall these personalities only because several streets, towns, and military camps have been named after them. When the award-winning film "Heneral Luna" was shown to capacity crowds with Apolinario Mabini, often called the "Brains of the Philippine Revolution" and the "Sublime Paralytic" playing a stellar role, many in the audience wondered aloud why he was always shown in a seating position. Parents who were fortunate enough to have been raised by families with more than textbook or quiz/trivia knowledge of the making of our history through the participation of these remarkable figures decry the fact that many of today's youth are more familiar with the eating or wardrobe preferences as well as the latest squeeze or amour of their favorite Korean or Hollywood idol than the roles played by Gabriela Silang, Antonio Luna, or Llanes-Escoda in the resistance against Spanish, American, and Japanese invaders. Some young people and even adults are known to sing all of their idols' top hits by heart at the drop of a hat. Still, they need to be made aware of the contributions of Nicanor Abelardo, Lucio San Pedro, and Sister Rosalina Abejo to the richness of Philippine music. Is this sad state of affairs a result of the failure of history and arts and culture classes in our school's curriculum, a lack of trained teachers to teach these courses, or simply growing disinterest in these subjects among our students? Have the heroes who are supposed to serve as role models or inspirations not only for the young but to the citizenry in general lost their luster or have faded glory? It would be a pity if such is the case, especially in these times when we need them most to rally behind a cause, symbolize or motivate advocacy, or provide us hope in a world tottering on the brink of war, facing disease, hunger, and the disastrous effects of climate change. While we should not forget those, who led us towards the path of independence from the harsh consequences of foreign rule that destroyed countless lives, bred insurrections, and almost obliterated our sense of pride and national identity, let us not forget those in our midst who continue to tread the less-traveled road and remain anonymous. In recent times, these are the modern-day heroes like the brave and persevering soldiers who man the worn out and ready-to-fall-apart BRP Sierra Madre entrenched on Philippine soil at Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, despite continuing threats and harassment from the Chinese Coast Guard whose government insists the Shoal is theirs. A July 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling under the United Nations said, "China's nine-dash line claim over the disputed waters is invalid." From the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, first responders or front liners like doctors, nurses, and others in allied professions were acknowledged as the heroes of the day, alongside countless supporters who donated medical equipment and facilities and organizers of community pantries that provided a seemingly endless supply of food to those in need. They are our firefighters, police and military forces (despite a rotten few), peacemakers, teachers, and rescuers in mercy missions to save lives in areas hit by floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other violent forces of nature. They may even be a neighbor who helps the homeless or vagrant by giving him not only food but odd jobs to keep them off the streets and away from the wretchedness of begging, a friend who has opened up her home to stray cats and dogs, a plant nursery owner who donates saplings and seeds so others can learn – and profit – from the joys of gardening. These community leaders have made a difference by initiating livelihood projects in their respective neighborhoods. It could even be you. Leading by example, you can teach others that settling tax obligations, obeying traffic rules, and paying it forward is all about being a good citizen. According to one wise man: "Heroes prove to us that no matter how much suffering there is in the world, there are supremely good people around whom we can count on to do the right thing even when most people are not prone to do so." The post Hero within all of us doesn’t make the news appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Smooth transition between Makati, Taguig urged
A teachers’ group is calling for a smooth transition between the cities of Makati and Taguig to ensure that classes in the affected public schools will not be disrupted by the territorial tension with only a week to go before the opening of classes on 29 August. Teachers’ Dignity Coalition national chairperson Benjo Basas said the two cities should respect the Supreme Court decision, noting that the delivery of education for the learners should not be compromised amid the ongoing tension over a boundary dispute between these two neighboring cities. Noel Meneses, president of the Fort Bonifacio High School Faculty Club, has also called for an immediate resolution on the issue. “We hope the two cities would make an agreement to restore the normal school operations,” Meneses said. According to Meneses, majority of the teachers were affected by the sudden transfer of schools division particularly when the documents are immediately needed for transactions like certifications, assignment orders, permits, or loan applications that are very much needed in time for the beginning of classes. Meneses, who is also speaking on behalf of the local chapter of the TDC, said teachers need to be informed of the situation affecting the two cities because “they are at the frontlines in education, and directly involved with learners, their parents, and the community, and can help the DepEd to disseminate proper information.” Meanwhile, the school principals of the public schools located at the so-called enlisted men’s barrios said they have no problem if the schools are now under the jurisdiction of the local government of Taguig City. Makati Science High School Principal Dr. Felix Bunagan said that the conduct of this year’s “Brigada Eskwela” was a success, which was participated in by Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano. Earlier, students and teachers of the Tigaban High School in East Rembo warmly welcomed Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano who actively engaged in the annual Brigada Eskwela activity. Earlier, West Rembo Elementary School principal Alma Cayabyab Adona said that while the two cities have good intentions, they should focus first on the welfare of the learners to establish a smooth opening of classes. She also reminded her fellow teachers to remain non-partisan and always do the mandate from the Department of Education. “We have no bias as long as the order must come from DepEd. That’s what we’ll stand for. We are not held by anyone,” she said. A total of 14 public schools involving some 1,500 teachers and 30,000 learners are affected by the transition, the TDC said. Basas said that the Department of Education’s central office’s assumption of authority over the affected schools would ease tension and open the door for more friendly talks between the two local government units. “With just a week to the opening of classes, our schools will need to make preparations, and in order to do this, teachers and other school personnel should be allowed to work, business as usual. We hope that things will get better sooner,” Basas said. The post Smooth transition between Makati, Taguig urged appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PNP: No mass exit of Makati cops from EMBOs
The Philippine National Police will adhere to the letter of the Supreme Court ruling that transferred jurisdiction over the 10 so-called EMBOs, or enlisted men’s barrios, from Makati City to Taguig City. PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said yesterday the transfer will take place under the guidance of the Department of the Interior and Local Government. She emphasized there will be no mass transfer of Taguig City police officers to the community police precincts in the 10 EMBOs as some of the Makati officers assigned to those areas will have to remain to ensure a smooth transition. “The only concern will be on the part of the PNP because those areas that used to be under the Makati police will be turned over to the Taguig police,” Fajardo said in a Laging Handa briefing. “What is being planned is to have a transition, but we will leave a few Makati police personnel to support the Taguig police who will take over,” she added. According to Fajardo, Makati cops are more familiar with the EMBO villages, so they may only be reassigned after their replacements had become acquainted with their beats. She said they were holding meetings with the parties concerned to ensure that the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections in the 10 barangays would proceed smoothly and without incident on 30 October. Meanwhile, a day after saying it would comply with a Department of Education order halting its takeover of 14 schools within the EMBOs, the local government of Taguig was back in fighting mode Friday. In a statement, the Taguig local government insisted that it does not need a writ of execution from the Pasig Regional Trial Court to enforce the SC ruling on the transfer of the barangays. The Pasig RTC was the lower court that first heard the territory case. “The SC decision is self-executing. Government agencies have voluntarily complied conformably [sic] to law. Taguig does not need a writ of execution to exercise jurisdiction over the Fort Bonifacio Military Reservation consisting of parcels 3, and 4 of Psu 2031,” its statement read in part. The statement came after Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano said she welcomed Vice President Sara Duterte’s order that placed the 14 schools under the control of the Department of Education. “Taguig, by force of the decision, is legally obliged to immediately exercise jurisdiction over its territory. There cannot be a vacuum in the exercise of jurisdiction over the 10 barangays,” the statement added. The Taguig LGU then appeared to hit Duterte and her order as DepEd secretary when it said, “All agencies must immediately respect, recognize, and for those particularly affected, voluntarily implement final and executory decisions of the Supreme Court without insisting on a writ of execution.” The post PNP: No mass exit of Makati cops from EMBOs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Villar Group taps Korean operator for casino project
The Villar Group has chosen a Korean company, among several other companies who signified their intent, to operate the 80-hectare casino and entertainment complex that will soon open. In a recent interview with reporters, businessman Manual B. Villar disclosed that his Group has been consistently in discussion with one particular Korean company, which he refused to disclose the identity, for quite some time. “Well, I have been talking to a Korean firm and I don’t want to disclose what company it is but we have been talking for a while. This is final and we will start operations probably late this year or the first quarter of next year,” Villar said. Prime Asset Ventures Inc., the private investment company headed by Villar’s son Manuel Paolo A. Villar, through wholly-owned subsidiary Vertex Entertainment and Resort Corporation, undertakes the massive project. The complex, to be called the Gold Coast Entertainment City, will not be all about the casino but a place for shopping, dining, and entertainment following the development models of Disney. It is located in the Las Piñas-Parañaque area near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. In another related development, the Villar Group has recently unveiled the 3,500-hectare Villar City— the family’s most ambitious project to date. According to Villar, he also plans to put up two casinos—a satellite one and a bigger one “with higher value”—within Villar City. The Villar City is envisioned to be a massive master-planned integrated development that will be composed of 15 satellite cities. It is poised to be about 10 times as big as Bonifacio Global City—indicating its sheer magnitude not only in terms of the number of homes, offices, and complexes that will be built within this vast community. The post Villar Group taps Korean operator for casino project appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DILG recognizes town mayor’s suspension
The Department of the Interior and Local Government on Thursday recognized the suspension order on Bonifacio town mayor Samson Dumanjug in Misamis Occidental. In a statement, the DILG commented on the suspension of Dumanjug which was discussed during the Senate Committee on Public Order hearing last 1 August 2023. Under Administrative Order 22 s. 2011, the suspension order of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan should be appealed to the Office of the President within 15 days from notice of the order., the DILG said. “However, Mayor Dumanjug did not file an appeal. The 2023 Suspension Order against Mayor Dumanjug thus became final and executory. Further, there was no stay of execution issued by any proper office or court. In recognizing the Suspension Order, the DILG complied with and followed the law,” read the statement. Last Tuesday, Occidental Gov. Henry Oaminal appeared before the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs for the hearing called by chairman Senator Ronald dela Rosa. Dela Rosa, in calling for the probe, has cited the letter complaint of the Dumanjug couple that local police officers and local government executives subjected them to alleged inhumane and violent treatment when they were evicted from the municipal hall building last 16 June. Oaminal said law enforcement agents were pressed to use force in enforcing the suspension order on Dumanjug and his wife, Vice Mayor Evelyn Dumajug to resume the delivery of basic services to their constituents. Oaminal told senators that the Dumanjugs have locked themselves in the mayor’s office since 30 May after he directed the service of the preventive suspension order issued by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Misamis Occidental in relation to Administrative Case 01-23 or a case of betrayal of public trust against the couple. On 7 June, Oaminal said the DILG Region 10 issued a memorandum recognizing Ricky Bulahan as the acting municipal mayor of Bonifacio town. This was supported with a letter dated 9 June 2023 coming from the DILG Central Office in Quezon City. The case stemmed from an administrative complaint filed against the Dumanjug couple last September 2022 for abuse of authority, dishonesty, and grave misconduct for the procurement of excavators and garbage compactor trucks which were allegedly overpriced. The post DILG recognizes town mayor’s suspension appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sheltering riders fine, just fined
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has issued violation tickets to motorcycle riders seeking shelter under overpasses and flyovers during heavy rains as it already implemented the controversial policy. This, as the MMDA stressed that riders crowding on a portion of the highway poses hazard to traffic. MMDA spokesperson Vic Nunez explained that if there is heavy downpour, visibility is also compromised and once riders crowd under footbridges, there is a big possibility of accidents to happen. Based on MMDA’s monitoring, riders occupied three lanes of the northbound lane of EDSA along Cubao to take shelter but immediately took off when they saw the MMDA personnel are arriving in the area to avoid being issued a traffic citation ticket. Earlier, riders opposed the regulation because they are just sheltering to avoid getting wet during heavy rains, adding those who stayed for a long time should be the ones cited for violation. The predicament of the riders was taken by 1 Rider Partylist Representative Bonifacio Bosita, as he called the new MMDA policy inhumane, adding that the policy is only pushing the riders to be a victim of accidents. He said the riders who have no raincoats simply wanted to seek shelter during heavy rains and they have no intent of staying in the area to cause traffic congestion. The post Sheltering riders fine, just fined appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Only in Mitsukoshi: J-beauty brands to try
Some of Japan’s beauty secrets even under-the-radar ones found only in Japan are now available in the country at Mitsukoshi Beauty in BGC. The beauty and wellness zone of Mitsukoshi BGC houses a wide selection of carefully curated, natural Japanese skincare, hair care and makeup brands, both familiar and new in the country. Mitsukoshi BGC is located along 8th Ave. in North Bonifacio Global City and at the podium of The Seasons Residences, a residential development that offers the unique Japanese way of life. Debuting in the country are the sophisticated and high-quality Japanese brands Waphyto, E Standard and La Casta. Waphyto When founder Atsuko Morita developed asthma and dry skin and hair as a flight attendant, a French friend introduced her to phytotherapy techniques (therapy that uses plants and herbs to treat medical conditions) to manage her concerns. Not only did the therapy work, but it also gave Atsuko many other unexpected benefits. This pushed her to leave the airlines and study medicine and botanical therapy in Paris. When she returned to Japan, she contributed to plant biology research, earning her multiple awards. Armed with knowledge and experience, Atsuko created a skincare brand powered by phytotherapy + biotechnology + herbology, called Waphyto. Made for men and women of all ages (from infancy to adulthood), Japan’s first plant bio methodology brand has products for skin, hair, body and intimate care. The plants and herbs in Waphyto products are sourced from Mikawa, Japan, where the soil is vitamin-rich. E Standard Most people follow multi-step routines to care for their skin. Based on the concept that “hair care is also skincare,” E Standard offers a comprehensive range of meticulous hair and scalp care solutions, just like what you would expect from a complete lineup of skin care products. Pamper your hair the way you do your skin with its five-step routine consisting of shampoo, hair serum, two hair treatments and hair oil (this can be reduced or increased based on your hair’s needs) for luscious, healthy and beautiful hair. E Standard’s organic products are made from nine plant extracts and three essential oils. And while most hair care brands use purified water, E Standard uses Hita Tenryosui natural mineral water to help nourish and revitalize hair. La Casta La Casta is a hair care brand used by many professional stylists in hair salons across Japan. The components of this brand are only natural aromas and botanical ingredients. Its hair care concept: “vitality and healing from plants.” This award-winning hair care brand (2015 and 2016 VOGUE Natural Wonder Prize and 2020 and 2022 WWD Beauty “Best Cosme”) has shampoo and conditioner ranges to treat several hair and scalp concerns, like thinning, tangled, frizzy, dry, oily and colored hair. They also have solutions like specialized brushes, scalp treatments, masks and hair lotions. To find the best range and combination of products for your hair, La Casta provides consultation services from their expert Beauty Advisors. The Seasons Residences houses the country’s first Mitsukoshi, a four-story mall and a branch of Japan’s oldest department store. This premium commercial space showcases Japanese design elements in a casual yet elegant setting. To know the latest about Mitsukoshi BGC visit their website, Facebook, and Instagram page. The post Only in Mitsukoshi: J-beauty brands to try appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Truckers protest caravan slows traffic flow in Port Area
A group of truckers called ACTOO (Alliance of Concerned Truck Owners Organization) on Friday morning held their protest caravan against the excessive toll fees being charged by North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) that slowed traffic flows at Bonifacio Drive Road, in Port Area, Manila. The said protest caravan started at 7:00 a.m. at the Anda Circle participated 40 trucks. The protest convoy, around two kilometers long, reached the Manila North Harbor up to Anda Circle. The protesters planned to barricade their trucks in front of the entrance of NLEX to signify their protest. The toll fee increases were from P19 up to P100. It was learned from ACTOO that their previous protest against toll hikes gained success last 15 June. The post Truckers protest caravan slows traffic flow in Port Area appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Daily Tribune soars on its 23rd year at The Peak
It was “the 23rd at the 60th” for Daily Tribune, which toasted recent milestones on Tuesday, 11 July, at The Peak at the Grand Hyatt in Bonifacio Global City. [caption id="attachment_157650" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Gibbs Cadiz, Vangie Baga-Reyes, Jojo Silvestre, Cielo Villaluna, Manny Torrejon and Teddy Montelibano.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157697" align="aligncenter" width="525"] dileep Tiwari and Jiyo President Gauswami Jigar.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157696" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Jonjon San Agustin, Philip Cruz and Queenie Dizon.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157695" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Mitch Arce, Josephine Fabro, and Archie Nicasio.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157694" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Willie Fernandez (rightmost) with (from left) JG Puzon and Sen. JV Ejercito and friends from Aboitiz Group including Maricar Bautista, Kerry Tinga, Ginggay Hontiveros, James Ileto, Leslie Lagdameo and Henry Aguda, among others.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157689" align="aligncenter" width="525"] mediablitz Group president Jenny Lei Caberte with Raffy Ayeng.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157688" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Friends from Designworks and Filinvest having fun at The Peak’s veranda.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157687" align="aligncenter" width="720"] larry Payawal, Avic Clemente, Lor Bulacan and Raffy Ayeng.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157686" align="aligncenter" width="525"] LIZAMARIE Domingo, Nica Julianda and Elmer Manuel.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157685" align="aligncenter" width="525"] LIZAMARIE Domingo, Nica Julianda and Elmer Manuel.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157684" align="aligncenter" width="525"] CHEENEY Eugenio and Zita Los Baños.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157682" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Sophia Chi, Aina Elinon, Marco Grajo, Joy Andrade, Cid Santillan, Belle Cahulogan, Archie Nicasio and Sonia Kuo.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157680" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Atty. Ferdie Topacio with Jack Animam and Sofia Roman.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157677" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Ace Yabut[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157676" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Gela Palisoc,Mirasol Garbinand Caye Palacol.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157675" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Romer Sto. Domingo, Mani Raman and Chingbee Fernandez.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157674" align="aligncenter" width="525"] WILLIE Fernandez, Primer Pagunuranand Bing Carreon.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157673" align="aligncenter" width="525"] RUPERT Jacinto[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157672" align="aligncenter" width="525"] James Ileto and Komfie Manalo.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157670" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Marc Anthony Reyes, Rey Joble, Willie Marcial, Julius Manicad and Ivan Suing.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157669" align="aligncenter" width="525"] pat Santos (left) and his band.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157668" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Pauline Songco and Pauline Joyce Pascual.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157667" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Rey Joble, PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial, Ballout and Vismin Cup Commissioner Cris Bautista and executive of Kalosph Sportswear.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157666" align="aligncenter" width="525"] (clockwise)Willie Marcial, Vinz Bautista, Gracey Bautista of Bartolome of Island Industrial Corporation and Justine Paul Cano.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157665" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Queenie Rodulfo, Gigie Arcilla, John Dodson and Rose Novenario.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157664" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Atty. Nilo Divina, Chingbee Fernandez, George Royeca, Dinah Ventura, Agile Zamora, Bing Carrion and Henry Aguda.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157663" align="aligncenter" width="525"] manny angeles, Willie Fernandez, Marc Anthony Reyes and Julius Manicad.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157662" align="aligncenter" width="525"] chito Lozada, Dinah Ventura and Cielo Villaluna.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157661" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Chabeng Garcia, Atty. Nilo Divina, AiAI Garcia and (standing) Romina Gervacio.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157660" align="aligncenter" width="525"] George Royeca, Chingbee Fernandez and Agile Zamora.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157659" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Rupert Jacinto, Patrick Jacinto, Nedy Tantoco, Jojo Silvestre and Butch Mendizabal[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157657" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Kevin Lapeña[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157656" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Willie Fernandez, Ching Cruz and Carol Mercado. (Inset) Cory Quirino.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157655" align="aligncenter" width="525"] photographs by joey sanchez mendoza, king rodriguezand sonny espiritu for the daily tribuneFlowers by Michael Ruiz add a colorful touch to the comfortable spaces of The Peak.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157654" align="aligncenter" width="525"] VENTURA, Millet Liberato-Simeon, Chingbee Fernandez and Jingjing Romero.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157653" align="aligncenter" width="525"] VENTURA, Millet Liberato-Simeon, Chingbee Fernandez and Jingjing Romero.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157652" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Chingkee Mangcucang, Bing Carrion and David Ackerman.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_157651" align="aligncenter" width="525"] James Ileto, Senator JV Ejercito and Willie Fernandez.[/caption] From six in the evening till past midnight, special guests and VIPs arrived to celebrate with the Daily Tribune family over heavy cocktails and overflowing drinks. The place was packed, as guests to the exclusive event came to enjoy “a breather,” as the invitation said. The media organization’s partners, old and new, came to wish the Daily Tribune more success and long years ahead. Gratitude filled the air for all the triumphs and lessons of the past year, which culminated with a 170-page anniversary supplement. This was meaningfully put into words in a prayer that said, “We are grateful for the vision, commitment and steady leadership of our president, Willie Fernandez, and the dedication of our entire team to propel Daily Tribune to where it is today. “Bless every member of the Daily Tribune family with renewed strength and inspiration to tackle the challenges that lie ahead. Forgive us for any transgression committed as we carried out our tasks. “Fill our hearts with compassion for all that we’ve gone through and everything that we hope for.” Acoustic music by Ace Yabut entertained early arrivals before ace host Kevin Lapeña led everyone through quick review of how the Daily Tribune had grown through the past five years under the new management. Indeed, “crossing its second decade in the Philippine media industry was a turning point for Daily Tribune, as a global pandemic demanded a wider approach to delivering news and views to an ever-developing market of readers. The company took a challenge and soared with it — never stopping for a minute. This year, the Daily Tribune continued to grow its reach. From print alone in 2000 to print with online presence some years after that, Daily Tribune in 2018 beefed up its website and added social media channels like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. The times called for a change in the way the company delivered its content, challenging it to step up its game. Daily Tribune led the way in developing content for Facebook and YouTube, creating different shows that expanded and synergized with stories in its print medium. Its tie-up with broadcast company RJ completed the circle to make it an Omnimedia company. Still, the print medium is not left behind. The newspaper is going from strength to strength — with anniversary issues getting thicker and thicker each year. Daily Tribune’s much-talked about tabloid Dyaryo Tirada is going from purely online to having print copies soon. From trending reels on Tiktok to Threads, and who knows what’s to come, Daily Tribune continues its journey to the peak! The post Daily Tribune soars on its 23rd year at The Peak appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»