NMP adopts blended learning
The NMP through its Curriculum Development Section (CDS), conducted a pilot class on Oily Water Separator (OWS) Course on 10 October 2020 adopting blended learning as teaching methodology......»»
DAR-EV adopts blended modality on problem solving session
DAR in Eastern Visayas proved that modern technology can be of great help indeed at these times, when mass gathering is strictly prohibited......»»
Finding the writer in me
It’s the season of the Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC) all over the country and I’d like to share my journey of learning and growth as a writer......»»
Why 4 lawmakers voted against RBH7, the economic charter change proposal
House lawmakers, convening as a committee of the whole, adopts the proposal on economic charter change just two weeks after deliberations started at the committee level.....»»
Jodi Sta. Maria adopts another pet, a black puppy named Lily
The family of actress Jodi Sta. Maria just got bigger following the adoption of a black puppy named Lily......»»
Victorias LGU-run dog shelter adopts 20 impounded dogs from Bacolod
Victorias LGU-run dog shelter adopts 20 impounded dogs from Bacolod.....»»
DTI adopts SRP changes for coffee, salt product variants
DTI adopts SRP changes for coffee, salt product variants.....»»
Philippines mining adopts global standards
The Philippine mining industry is aligning its reportorial requirements with global standards, potentially attracting investors to advance the industry......»»
UN arm wants city governments to accelerate climate action
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific is pushing for the use of blended finance and financial aggregation by city governments to accelerate climate action......»»
House panel adopts resolution urging NTC to suspend SMNI
The House committee on legislative franchises adopted Tuesday night a resolution authored by a Davao City-based lawmaker who urged the National Telecommunications Commission to suspend the franchise of Sonshine Media Network International......»»
QCPD adopts Belmonte’s green programs
The public should expect environment-friendly police camps in Quezon City starting in December......»»
Senate adopts reduction of confidential, intel funds allocation for 2024
Senate adopts reduction of confidential, intel funds allocation for 2024.....»»
Jodi, Ogie, Dennis, Derek on how to make the blended family setup work
Celebrities lead lives that often seem far from our own. But many of them face the same challenges and joys as regular families, including navigating blended family and co-parenting setups......»»
Aboitiz Land gets Circle of Excellence Award for Diversity Company of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards
Aboitiz Land, the real estate arm of the Aboitiz group, is among those honored with the prestigious Circle of Excellence Award under the Diversity Company of the Year category at the Asia CEO Awards held at the Manila Marriott Hotel on 24 October 2023. This recognition highlights the company’s steadfast commitment to promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in every aspect of its culture. “Aboitiz Land’s dedication to diversity and inclusion extends far beyond our organization’s borders. We strive to create a positive influence not only within our team, but also among the vecinos we serve and the local communities surrounding our projects,” David Rafael, CEO and president of Aboitiz Land said. Fostering Inclusivity: A Closer Look at Aboitiz Land’s DE&I Program What sets Aboitiz Land’s DE&I program apart is its holistic approach, addressing each stage of the employee journey to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion. Here are some key features of Aboitiz Land’s DE&I program: The organization adopts flexible educational and geographical hiring requirements, prioritizing relevant professional experience over strict educational attainment. The consanguinity policy within the organization is relaxed, allowing relatives of employees to pursue careers within the company. A hybrid work setup is implemented, providing flexibility and saving time and resources for employees. Transparent communication is encouraged, fostering trust and openness within the organization. Employee feedback is collected regularly through channels like Amara, a virtual employee experience champion. Aboitiz Land promotes a multigenerational leadership approach and maintains a healthy gender balance with a 45:55 male-to-female employee ratio. They also ensure LGBTQIA+ representation across all levels of the company. The organization offers flexible benefits through the FlexBen program, allowing employees to customize their benefit packages based on individual needs. Expanded healthcare coverage includes provisions for child dependents, common-law and same-gender partners. Additionally, government benefits are extended to cover a wider range of family situations. Development opportunities are available to all team members, ensuring that individual growth is not limited to specific segments. Growth partnerships and curated learning solutions are provided to facilitate skill development. Aboitiz Land’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program has led to elevated levels of employee satisfaction and engagement. This, in turn, fosters a productive workforce that is driven to consistently enhance performance, ultimately delivering better products and services. The Asia CEO Awards honors business excellence in the Philippines and is the largest event of its kind in Southeast Asia. The post Aboitiz Land gets Circle of Excellence Award for Diversity Company of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Robinsons retail unit posts profit rise
Listed Gokongwei group’s Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. proved its resilience in the first nine months as it reported a core profit of P3.8 billion, up 4 percent. Net sales during the period were at P138.2 billion, which rose by 8.7 percent year-on-year. The company was able to generate growth in net sales and core net earnings despite the impact of inflation on consumption and a challenging base last year which benefited from economic reopening and election-related spending. Core net earnings exclude foreign exchange gains and losses, interest income from bonds, equity in earnings from associates, interest expense related to the Bank of Philippine Islands acquisition financing, BPI cash dividends, and others. The growth in net sales was supported by blended same store sales growth of five percent and store expansions. The core businesses supermarkets and drugstores were the main revenue growth drivers in the first nine months. These two segments accounted for almost 75 percent of Robinsons Retail’s revenues for the period. Meanwhile, a bright spot in the discretionary portfolio was the department store segment, which was able to deliver double-digit topline growth due to back-to-school and continued out-of-home activities. The company’s consolidated gross profit continued to grow faster than revenues, increasing by 9.4 percent year-on-year to P32.9 billion in the first nine months. This was enabled by improvements in category mix and higher penetration of private label brands. Meanwhile, operating income grew by 3.7 percent year-on-year to P6.1 billion. Net income attributable to equity holders of the parent company fell by 41.4 percent year-on-year to P2.6 billion until September. The decline in net income to parent was weighed by equitized losses from minority startup investments which continue to ramp up, the derecognition of Robinsons Bank’s net income under equitized earnings following the ongoing merger with the Bank of the Philippine Islands, interest expense from the acquisition financing of the BPI shares that were purchased earlier this year, and the absence of cash dividends from BPI in the third quarter of 2023. Dividends set BPI has historically paid dividends in the second and fourth quarters of each year. The expected cash dividends from BPI in the fourth quarter should fully cover for the acquisition related financing interest expense for the purchase of the BPI shares. “Our defensible business model has enabled us to continue growing and remain relevant among Filipino consumers. This is notwithstanding near-term macroeconomic challenges, particularly the impact of inflation on consumer sentiment. These headwinds are temporary, in our view, and we thus remain positive on the long-term potential of the domestic retail industry given the Philippines’ attractive demographics. We will continue to invest with a long-term view and in a sustainable manner — core strategies that we firmly believe will translate to greater stakeholder value,” Robina Gokongwei-Pe, president and CEO of Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc., said. The post Robinsons retail unit posts profit rise appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Spooktacular cocktails to amp the fun
It’s that time of the year when people of all ages love to celebrate, donning the scariest Halloween costumes and dressing up the room with all things spooky, eerie and creepy. But what about the Halloween drinks to complete the spine-chilling experience? DAILY TRIBUNE scoured the metropolis to look for that ominous, forbidding drinks that add thrill and spectacle to the occasion. Here are just some of the wicked cocktail drinks that we spotted that are not necessarily disgusting in taste. The haunting booze can be pretty tasty, blended either with chocolate or fruit juices and infused with wine and spirits. INTRAMUROS MASSACRE Teaser: A tempting hot chocolate treat laced with Irish whiskey and cognac, topped with a heaping of whipped cream and ghoulish tiny mallows. Where: Ilustrado Restaurant, Cabildo Street, Intramuros, Manila. STRAWBERRY FIELDS ICED VELVET Teaser: A velvety blend drizzled with strawberry syrup, crowned with whipped cream and fresh strawberry bits. Finished off with a hauntingly delicious Mummy Macaron chocolate truffle— perfect for Halloween indulgence. Where: Bizu Patisserie and Café. Branches: Mitsukoshi Mall, Taguig City; Greenhills Promenade; Greenbelt 2, Makati City; all MiraNila branches or visitwww.bizu.ph. Available until 2 November. Bloody Mary Shot. BLOODY MARY SHOT Teaser: This drink will certainly put you in the Halloween spirit — a bloody blend of tomato juice, vodka, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, fresh ground black pepper and Kosher salt. Where: Cerveseria Spanish Restaurant and Cocktail Bar at Parklane, Forbestown Road, Taguig City. Bewitching Sangria. BEWITCHING HALLOWEEN SANGRIA Teaser: The invigorating flavors of orange juice with chunks of apple and orange will refresh and revitalize but the addition of red wine and brandy amps up the drinking experience. Where: Cerveseria Spanish Restaurant and Cocktail Bar at Parklane, Forbestown Road, Taguig City. Black Magic Margarita. BLACK MAGIC MARGARITA Teaser: Who can say no to this drink fused with all things lovely— silver tequila, grenadine, blue curacao, triple sec and sour mix. Garnished with sliced lime. Where: Cerveseria Spanish Restaurant and Cocktail Bar at Parklane, Forbestown Road, Taguig City. Red Magic Margarita. RED MAGIC MARGARITAS Teaser: This will surely lend lip-smacking magic to each and every spooky sip — a mix of red sanding, mojito, triple sec and lime juice, garnished with sliced lime. Where: Gumbo is on the second floor of Megamall Atrium, Mandaluyong City Cookies ‘N Screaaaam! COOKIES ‘N SCREAAAM! Teaser: Don’t you just love the taste of vanilla ice cream exquisitely enhanced with fresh milk, Oreo cookies and decked with crushed Oreo and drizzled with choco syrup? Where: Burgoo American Bar and Restaurant. Branches: U/G B Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City, Quezon City; G/F SM City, Southmall, Las Piñas; G/F Vista Mall, Taguig City; and 2/F The District, Imus City, Cavite. Bloody Morguerita. BLOODY MORGUERITA Teaser: There’s no better way to embrace the spirits than this bloody drink with a dizzying blend of tequila, lemonade, lime, cranberry and raspberry. Where: Burgoo American Bar and Restaurant. Branches: U/G B Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City, Quezon City; G/F SM City, Southmall, Las Pinas; G/F Vista Mall, Taguig City; and 2/F The District, Imus City, Cavite. FRANKENSTEIN. FRANKENSTEIN AND ALIEN EYE MONSTER Teaser: Drawing inspiration from childhood favorite Halloween hero Frankenstein, this creamy drink has the finest matcha powder and Monin Caramel syrup. For a more refreshing drink, Alien Eye Monster offers the sweetest apple juice, as well as the favorite Monin Peach and Red Berries syrup and garnished with blueberry, lychee and whipped cream. Where: High Street Café, Shangri-La The Fort, 30th Street, Taguig City. The post Spooktacular cocktails to amp the fun appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New design-led heritage boutique hotel to open in Singapore
21 Carpenter, a heritage boutique hotel, is slated to open its doors before the year ends. Nestled between the vibrant nightlife of Clarke Quay and the old-world charm of Chinatown, this centrally located property is developed by conservation specialists 8M Real Estate. 21 Carpenter has been brought to life through collaborative efforts involving local and international partners, renowned for their contributions to design, art and dining. Notably, the hotel showcases the architectural expertise of the award-winning firm WOHA in restoring the historic building. The hotel also proudly holds the distinction of being a member of Design Hotels, affiliated with Marriott Bonvoy. Steeped in history and architectural significance, the 48-room development breathes a new lease of life into the former Remittance House, Chye Hua Seng Wee Kee, dating back to 1936. WOHA has seamlessly blended tradition and innovation while incorporating thoughtful design elements into the row of four heritage shophouses. “In the creation and design of 21 Carpenter, we wanted to honor the rich history of the heritage structure. Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted, with key parts of the design reflecting the historic building’s aesthetics and storied past,” says Richard Hassell, founding director of WOHA. 21 Carpenter comprises two distinct wings: The Heritage Wing, featuring 26 rooms in the conserved building, and The Urban Wing, a contemporary five-story extension with an additional 22 rooms. The generously sized rooms range from 30 to 56 square meters, allowing ample space for a comfortable stay. The property also boasts a rooftop infinity pool and lounge offering breathtaking views across the city and Marina Bay, along with a garden terrace on the third level. The hotel will feature an independent neo-bistro and bar, with Michelin-star chef Andrew Walsh at the helm as the culinary director. Located at the corner of Carpenter Street and New Bridge Road, the street-level neighborhood venue is poised to become a destination for the modern-day epicurean. The space is designed for one to linger longer and diners can expect elevated renditions of timeless classics in hearty portions. In keeping with the brand’s core pillar of sustainability, 21 Carpenter has been meticulously restored using many of the original features of the building. Crafted for the contemporary luxury traveler, the property’s interior combines heritage and modern design, featuring commissioned art by renowned local artists, carefully curated by The Artling. Amenities and in-room touches will also embrace the talents of local creators, ensuring an authentic and immersive experience for the most discerning of travelers. “As the only heritage hotel debuting in Singapore this year, 21 Carpenter is more than just a place to stay; it is a place to experience Singapore’s true history and past, while creating new stories for the future,” says Tarun Kalra, general manager of 21 Carpenter. “The team and I are excited to define hospitality through our thoughtfully considered service touches, offering guests an experience that encapsulates the very essence of our brand and its charm. During their time with us, we hope guests enjoy an immersive cultural experience that will leave a lasting impression.” Visit www.21carpenter.com.sg/. The post New design-led heritage boutique hotel to open in Singapore appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A positive difference
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” Mahatma Gandhi once said. Marian Wright Edelman states, “Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.” Two memorable statements capture the essence of Attorney Kelvin Lester Lee, hailed by Dean Antonio La Viña of Ateneo School of Government as “one of the finest and most visionary individuals to have emerged from Ateneo Law School.” It’s no surprise that Atty. Lee became a Commissioner at the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2019. While his position may be formidable, those who have met him in person can attest to his kind-hearted nature and willingness to devote his time generously. When expressing his views, he displays a remarkable level of candor, always taking the time to carefully consider his words before speaking. Aside from his sense of humor, Lee possesses a remarkable ability to engage in meaningful conversations. When he speaks, he has a way of looking directly into your eyes, underscoring the significance of his words. Even in intense situations, he maintains a calm demeanor and is known to offer a comforting smile, lightening the atmosphere. In his role as Commissioner at the SEC, Atty. Lee assumes the responsibility of overseeing various crucial departments and divisions. These include the markets and securities regulation department, the information and communications technology department, the PhiliFintech innovation office dedicated to Philippine financial technology, and the international affairs and protocol division. Moreover, he holds authority over capital markets, sustainable finance, Fintech and information technology, and international affairs, ensuring their effective management and implementation. While the enormity of those tasks might induce vertigo in most individuals, Atty. Lee remains unfazed. “It is perhaps the best job I have ever had,” he admitted. “I enjoy making a positive change in the sector I am handling. I enjoy pushing innovations and encouraging improvements in the financial sector and capital markets.” With great responsibility, Lee adopts a heightened level of caution. Recognizing the potential impact of his words, he expressed the need to exercise carefulness in his public statements, as any statement he makes can influence the stock market. This awareness underscores his commitment to acting with prudence and considering the far-reaching implications of his words. Let’s delve into the life of Lee, who began his journey in the humble city of Davao, his birthplace. He embarked on his educational path at the Ateneo de Davao University for his grade school education, followed by his enrollment at Davao Central High School, then called Davao Chinese High School. After completing his schooling in Davao, he ventured to Beijing, China, where he pursued studies in the Chinese language and gained work experience with a foreign company. However, after two years, he returned to the Philippines and enrolled in Ateneo de Manila University to pursue a law degree. This journey showcases his diverse experiences and the foundation of his educational and cultural background. “The Ateneo de Manila entrance exam was the only one I could take that year when I came back from China,” he said, adding that he never dreamed of becoming a lawyer. “I just wanted to give it a try. And found I was a surprisingly good fit for it.” As a lawyer, he has five ideal lawyers. Only one is a foreigner: Sir Thomas Moore, an English lawyer, social philosopher, author, and statesman whom Roman Catholics venerated as Saint Thomas More. “He stood by his faith and principles,” he said. Fresh from hurdling the Bar exam, he worked at the Siguion-Reyna Montecillo and Ongsiako law firm, where he learned the importance of being enterprising and putting in a diligent effort to succeed. However, despite his professional growth, he decided to quit and return to his hometown of Davao, placing the deeply rooted value on family and prioritizing personal and familial responsibilities above career pursuits. As a father to two daughters, Atty. Lee expressed that fatherhood has had a profound impact on him, bringing about significant changes. He considers it one of the greatest blessings he could ever receive. According to him, the love that his children show him is genuine and unmatched. He believes that the love of young children is unparalleled. Experiencing this level of love is indescribable, knowing someone loves you unconditionally. This extraordinary bond makes fatherhood one of the most precious and fulfilling aspects of his life. “The love your kids show you is real,” he said. “You will never be as loved as you are by your young children. There is no feeling quite like it to know that someone loves you as much as that. That’s what makes it one of the best things.” Working in government “It is an honor to serve. Very few people get an opportunity to help the country and serve the president and the people,” said Lee, who is a former assistant secretary at the Office of the Executive Secretary in Malacañang, where he was also designated to sit on the Board of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. Atty. Lee’s dedication to public service earned him well-deserved recognition in his field. In March this year, he received two international accolades for his role in driving the advancement of financial technology in the Philippine business sector, highlighting his visionary thinking and influential impact solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the field. In the 10th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, Lee was bestowed the Gold Stevie award for his outstanding contributions as a Thought Leader of the Year. These awards celebrate workplace innovation across all 29 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. From a vast pool of over 800 regional nominations, winners were selected in various categories, including the Award for Excellence in Innovation in Products & Services, the Award for Innovative Management, and the Award for Innovation in Corporate Websites, among others. “It feels great. It’s always wonderful to be recognized for all the hard work and changes you pursue at a government agency. And I was quite surprised to get the Gold Stevie Award, the highest level of the award for thought leadership. I feel so honored!” In the next decade, Atty. Lee, now 44, envisions continuing his career in law, possibly incorporating elements of technology, and hopes to stay actively involved in government work and make a significant impact by fostering meaningful transformation. “Working in government can be quite fulfilling. I encourage young lawyers and professionals to enter the arena and work in government to try and make a positive difference.” The post A positive difference appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CAAP adopts Borongan’s airport-building style
BORONGAN CITY — It was the necessity of getting a direct flight started the soonest that prompted the local government here to build its own airport, albeit in a novel and most cost-effective way given its limited budget. But the novel idea of using a modular construction system in the construction of an airport terminal gave the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines the idea on how it will build airport terminals in the future across the country. Rupert Ambil, Borongan City Information Officer and Flights Operation Chairman of the Borongan City Airport, said the city is the first local government unit in the country to construct its own airport terminal. “Thanks to the innovative design by the engineering team and the remarkable speed at which this project was completed, the CAAP is now adopting the modular design for other airports in the country,” Ambil said. On Thursday, CAAP issued a statement that it will be expanding the use of its modular construction system to more airports across the country, following its completion at Borongan Airport. “CAAP is actively implementing alternative approaches to swiftly address the concerns of passengers such as check-in areas and passenger terminal buildings with limited spaces,” CAAP said. “To address these areas for development, CAAP aims to create more spacious, efficient, and passenger-friendly environments that meet international standards and accommodate the increasing passenger volume of airports,” it added. “The modular construction system, which initially piloted at Borongan Airport, offers a sustainable approach to constructing terminal facilities with passenger amenities, as it minimizes construction waste. It uses pre-fabricated structural steel, a sustainable and cost-effective approach that allows for flexibility in design and rapid construction.” CAAP said it has identified additional airports where the construction system will be implemented. One of them is the Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro where construction aimed to increase passenger movement is set to start in December 2023 with a total budget of P36 million. The post CAAP adopts Borongan’s airport-building style appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Winford Café’s winning flavors
Situated in the vibrant capital city, Winford Resort & Casino Manila is known for entertainment and gaming. Now it is set to make a name as a dining destination. Winford Café, on the second floor, is the hotel’s first in-house coffee shop and casual diner. From Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 12 midnight, the cafe is set to redefine the coffee and culinary ambiance in Manila. In attendance during the grand opening were president and chief operating officer Jeff Evora, Hotel Operations director James Olivar, Food & Beverage manager Edmond de Jesus and Chef de Partie Fatima Libre. Winford Café is the ideal venue for a quick sip, light bite and full meal situated just outside the casino. [caption id="attachment_189644" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Seafood Pasta Negra.[/caption] “Nakuha ko itong concept na’to dahil sa panahon ngayon. Kailangan Instagrammable, maganda sa mata, maganda sa pang-amoy at masarap (I got this idea from the current times. It has to be Instagrammable, pleasing to the eyes, nice-smelling and delicious),” Libre shared to DAILY TRIBUNE. “Pagdating ng 9 o’clock, 50 percent po tayo (Come 9 p.m., everything’s 50 percent off),” Libre added. The cafe’s interior is a combination of modern and contemporary design with a seating capacity of 20. With a variety of dishes, coffee connoisseurs and diners can enjoy a gastronomic journey for breakfast, a leisurely brunch or decadent dinner. On the menu are sandwiches (Winford’s Triple Decker, Ham and Cheese Croque Monsieur with Fries, Grilled Cheese with Fries, French Toast with Honey and Butter), Signature Pasta (Seafood Pasta Negra, Alfredo, Pesto with Chicken, Mac & Cheese and Tuyo Pasta), All-Day Breakfast (Tenderloin Steak with Kimchi Fried Rice, English, Eggs Benedict, Corned Beef, Porksilog Adobo and Tapsilog with Pickled Onion and Fried Chicken and Waffles). The cafe also offers Ice Blended (Triple Dark Chocolate, Butter Cookies and Cream, Coffee Latte, and Caramel), Iced (Iced Cafe, Iced Spanish Bombon and Black Cold Brew), Specialty (Coffee Coretto and Irish Coffee) and delectable desserts and pastries to satisfy your sweet craving. The cafe can also customize cakes for special occasions. Whether you prefer Hot (Spanish Latte, Cappucino, Cafe Latte, Flat White, Macchiato, Americano, and Espresso Lungo or Tea English Breakfast), Green Tea and Chamomile the baristas will deliver the perfect cup of coffee or tea. “We assured that every day the food is fresh and brand new. A variety of comfort food is prepared fresh daily in our kitchen. Our best seller is seafood pasta negra and for the coffee, it’s the Iced Spanish Bombon,” Libre said. To enjoy a cup of coffee and tea and a delicious meal, Winford Cafe at Winford Resort & Casino Manila is a venue worth exploring. The post Winford Café’s winning flavors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl to UN: Uphold int’l law to keep Indo-Pacific free, open
Adherence to international law by all nations would maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region, the Philippines said Sunday. Speaking on behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York City, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo reiterated that all countries are accountable for maintaining a rules-based global order. “Its present and future rest on the predictability and stability of international law, which safeguards the rights of all states. If multilateralism is to endure, all states must adhere to the rule of law,” Manalo said. “Guided by an independent foreign policy, the Philippines actively works with nations to promote a rules-based international order,” he added. Quoting President Marcos, Manalo stressed that the Philippines is “a friend to all and enemy to none.” The DFA chief also said that the Philippines advocates the “peaceful settlement of disputes, in accordance with international law.” “This has always been our position with respect to the disputes in the West Philippine Sea, inasmuch as we are prepared to defend our sovereignty, sovereign rights and territorial integrity,” he said. “Our Constitution renounces war as an instrument of national policy, adopts the generally accepted principles of international law as part of the law of the land and adheres to a policy of peace, equality, justice, freedom, cooperation, and amity with all nations,” he added. In his speech, the country’s top diplomat also pointed out that the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea is “now part of international law.” China claims the vast South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, with its historic nine-dash line claim, which the Permanent Court of Arbitration invalidated after siding with the Philippines. Seven years after the Tribunal favored the Philippines’ arbitral case against China, the ruling remains on paper as China continues to disregard it by keeping its illegal activities in the West Philippine Sea. For Manalo, all nations must adhere to international law to sustain stability in the Indo-Pacific region. "Adherence to international law contributes to keeping the Indo-Pacific, with ASEAN at the center, free and open and our region stable and peaceful. In line with this, we are guided by the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific,” he said. The post Phl to UN: Uphold int’l law to keep Indo-Pacific free, open appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»