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Taylor Swift and the new Filipino
It comes to no surprise when almost every single budget airline, ours included, was filled with Swifties of all ages bound for Singapore......»»
Netflix finally finds a manga hit with ‘One Piece’
Netflix has spent years trying to adapt Japanese manga and anime into live-action TV with little success, but its latest effort, "One Piece", may finally have cracked the code. The US streaming giant's latest show, based on the most famous manga comic of them all, was watched more than 18 million times in its first four days, putting it at the top of the charts. The story of Monkey D Luffy, a boy with a straw hat and stretchy superpowers determined to become king of all pirates by finding a treasure known as one piece, has captivated manga fans since its first editions in 1997. And it should have been a shoo-in for TV success, having already been widely adapted for the screen in a series of animated movies. But manga fans feared the worst before the Netflix live-action version hit the screens in late August. The American giant has tried and failed with other beloved Japanese manga and anime. Its "Fullmetal Alchemist" and "Death Note" failed to convince in 2017 and 2021's "Cowboy Bebop" was ditched after one season, crumbling under the weight of bad reviews. With One Piece, Netflix cannily sought to keep fans onside by holding on to the most valuable commodity: the comic's author, Eiichiro Oda. 'Guard dog' Oda is tightly bound to the comic, having written all the editions for its entire run -- a world record -- and was brought on as series supervisor by Netflix. He was well aware of the challenge. "Various manga had been made into live action, but there was a history of failure," he told the New York Times in a rare interview published in late August. "No one in Japan could name a successful example." He told the paper that Netflix agreed to give him final approval. "I read the scripts, gave notes, and acted as a guard dog to ensure the material was being adapted in the correct way," he said. Reviews have been broadly positive, with Charles Pulliam-Moore writing on The Verge website the series "gets all of the important things right". He wrote that the series, with a budget of more than $100 million, had put huge efforts into re-creating Oda's vision in its production design and populating its scenes with a cast of whimsical background characters. This effort, he wrote, meant the series "is able to feel like a living, breathing place with history that you can step into". And that history still has much left to be told -- the first run of eight episodes covers only the first 12 volumes of a comic that now boasts roughly 100. The post Netflix finally finds a manga hit with ‘One Piece’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DBM flags PNP’s P27-B ‘overdraft’
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has been spending a whopping P26.7 billion annually for “unauthorized” excess positions in the organization, covering ranks from Lieutenant Generals and below, according to a Department of Budget and Management (DBM) document, In a letter dated 12 October 2022 addressed to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin C. Abalos Jr., Mary Anne Z. Dela Vega, Director of the Budget Department’s Budget and Management Bureau, submitted a matrix of PNP rank distribution approved by the DBM covering the 226,410 members of the police force. The DBM-approved rank distribution did not match the actual strength and distribution of ranks implemented by the PNP leadership, contrary to existing laws and regulations. The following excess positions were noted in the following ranks: Lieutenant General, 5; Major General, 6; Brigadier General, 24; Colonel, 232; Lieutenant Colonel, 910; Major, 1,410; Captain, 1,835; Staff Sergeant, 31,729; and Corporal, 30,052. The total excess positions stand at 66,203 with a combined annual base pay of P26.707 billion. DILG sources said these excess positions, which go beyond the DBM-authorized number of personnel, are considered “illegal." On the other hand, DBM and DILG data showed that there are 77,190 unfilled positions in the PNP hierarchy, with the rank of Patrolman/Patrolwoman suffering the biggest discrepancy with 66,958 unfilled posts. The DBM-authorized positions for Patrolman stands at 129,926 but the actual strength per PNP record as of 30 June 2023 stood at only 62,968. These unfilled positions have a combined budget of P23.838 billion that was not spent on the recruitment of more Patrolmen and women. “This explains why we severely lack police visibility in our communities. And this has an adverse effect on the overall campaign to preserve peace and order and protect the people from crimes,” said a DILG insider, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Other PNP ranks that remain unfilled include Lieutenant, 1,066; Executive Master Sergeant, 2,382; Chief Master Sergeant, 3,878; Senior Master Sergeant, 463; and Master Sergeant, 2,443. For star rank positions, the DBM allows only three for Lieutenant Generals but there are presently eight officials having that rank. For Major General, the DBM allows only 11 but 17 are now occupying the position while for Brig. General, only 86 are allowed but 110 were appointed to the rank. For non-star ranks, there are only 624 colonels allowed by the DBM but the PNP has 856. The DBM authorized 2,000 for Lt. Cols. but the actual number of officers with that rank stands at 2,910. “… we wish to reiterate that any changes in the PNP’s organizational structure should be supported by a study and recommendation of NAPOLCOM (National Police Commission), to include its impact on the hierarchy and leadership structure of the organization, and subsequently, the same shall be subject to the President’s approval,” the DBM letter said. Napolcom Commissioner Alberto Bernardo, who is also Vice Chairperson of the body, was furnished a copy of the said letter but could not be reached for comment. An earlier letter to the DILG dated 19 July 2018 and signed by then Secretary Benjamin Diokno warned that except for such offices created by the Constitution, the creation of public offices is primarily a legislative function. Therefore, these excess positions in the PNP not otherwise authorized by the DBM are contrary to law and may only be considered ad hoc or temporary positions. Likewise, the realignment of PNP funds to these excess positions was a power reserved only to the President and the use of savings to augment items in the general appropriations law for the executive branch is his sole prerogative and not any police official in the case of the PNP. Executive Order No. 292 or the Administrative Code of 1987, specifically states that; “the General Appropriations Act shall not contain any itemization of personal services, which shall be prepared by the Secretary after enactment of the (GAA), for consideration and approval of the President.” The twin acts of creating excess positions and using realigned savings to fund these posts by the PNP leadership are prohibited by law. “While the Napolcom is duty-bound to advise the president on all matters relating to police functions and administration, it cannot recommend to the President the promotion of Third Level PNP officers to excess and prohibited positions,” the DILG source further explained. The post DBM flags PNP’s P27-B ‘overdraft’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Choosing perfect summer aircon
Everyone looks forward to summer — until they are reminded just how hot Philippine summers can actually get. And when you’re in the middle of sweltering humidity and heat, there’s nothing like coming home to a space that is comfortably, quietly, and more importantly, efficiently cooled. The secret to creating this cool, refreshing oasis lies in finding the right air conditioner to keep you comfortable all summer long — without breaking the bank. If that sounds too good to be true, pay attention as Prestiz, a brand best known for creating affordable and energy-efficient solutions to help you beat the heat walks you through the basics of finding the right air conditioner to fit your needs and lifestyle. Buying Checklist When buying an air conditioner unit, it’s important to carefully evaluate a variety of factors to find the perfect unit. You don’t want to spend on an air conditioner that’s going to be too small or too big for a specific space. Begin by measuring the room’s square footage, as this will help determine the appropriate cooling capacity (measured in BTUs). Remember, larger rooms require higher BTU ratings. Energy efficiency is also crucial so always look for units with high Energy Efficiency Ratio or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio ratings to minimize energy costs. The type of air conditioner — whether it’s a window unit, portable unit, split system, or central air conditioning — should be chosen based on your space, budget, and installation requirements. Noise levels, measured in decibels (dB), should be considered as well, especially for areas like bedrooms or home offices where quiet operation is essential. Air filters, wi-fi connectivity Air filters play a significant role in maintaining indoor air quality, so opt for a unit with a good-quality, washable or replaceable air filter. Additionally, smart features such as WiFi connectivity can enhance your air conditioner’s functionality, allowing for smartphone app control and smart home system integration. Don’t forget to factor in installation and maintenance, including filter replacement or cleaning, and ensure that you choose a reputable brand like Prestiz, known for offering excellent warranty coverage and reliable customer support. Understanding Horsepower The term horsepower is something that you often come across when it comes to air conditioners. Horsepower is a common indicator of an air conditioner’s cooling capacity. For small rooms (up to 14 sq. m.) like bedrooms or home offices, a 0.5 to 1 HP air conditioner should be sufficient. For medium-sized rooms (14 to 23 sq. m.), such as living rooms or master bedrooms, a 1.5 HP air conditioner is recommended. Large rooms (23 to 37 sq. m.), including spacious living rooms or open-plan areas, generally require a 2 HP air conditioner. And Extra-large rooms (37+ sq. m.) and open spaces may need an air conditioner with 2.5 HP or higher. Keep in mind that factors such as ceiling height, insulation, sun exposure, and the number of occupants can also influence the required horsepower. Thankfully, Prestiz offers several high-capacity models for such applications so be sure to review product details carefully to choose the right one for your needs. Energy Efficiency Is Key As much as you’d love to spend all day in an air-conditioned room during summer, the thought of electricity costs is enough to send you reaching for that off switch. Except if you have a unit with a great EER. EER, or Energy Efficiency Ratio, is a measure used to rate the energy efficiency of air conditioners. It is calculated by dividing the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (measured in British Thermal Units or BTUs per hour) by the power input (measured in watts). The resulting ratio indicates how much cooling is provided for each unit of electrical power consumed. A higher EER means that the air conditioner is more energy-efficient, as it can provide more cooling with less power consumption. EERs however tend to vary depending on the brand, design, and technology. So if you’re shopping for a new unit, be sure to look for higher EER ratings, which can help bring down energy bills and even minimize environmental impact. Window-Type vs. Split-Type A couple more things to remember: You’ll probably hear the terms window-type or split-type a lot when you’re shopping for a unit. So here are a few things to remember: Split-type air conditioners offer several advantages, including energy efficiency, quiet operation, aesthetic appeal, multi-zone capability, and flexible installation. With separate indoor and outdoor components, they minimize energy loss and operate more quietly than window or portable units. They’re also less obtrusive, don’t obstruct windows, and can be installed in rooms without window access. Some split systems even allow for multi-zone cooling. However, it’s important to weigh these with your space’s needs as they will require higher upfront costs, professional installation requirements, more complex maintenance, and limited portability. On the other hand, window-type air conditioners have a lower upfront cost, easier installation, and better portability. They don’t require a separate outdoor component, which can be advantageous in certain situations. However, they have lower energy efficiency, generate more noise, obstruct windows, and have limited installation options compared to split-type units. When choosing between split and window-type air conditioners, carefully evaluate these factors in relation to your specific needs, preferences, and budget. One isn’t necessarily better than the other, it really all depends on what you need. Lifestyle fit Prestiz Window Type Air Conditioners are available in 0.5 1.0 and 1.5. Split-type models are also available at 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 HP. There’s bound to be one that will seamlessly fit your lifestyle. Visit our Shopee or Lazada page to learn more about our products or visit our physical stores at SM Hypermarket Las Piñas, SM Hypermarket Cavite Molino, SM Hypermarket Marilao, SM Hypermarket Mall Of Asia, SM Hypermarket Novaliches, SM Hypermarket Monumento, SM Hypermarket Bicutan, SM Hypermarket Rizal, Taytay, SM Hypermarket North Edsa, SM Hypermarket Bulaca, Baliuag, SM Hypermarket Fairview, SM Hypermarket Valenzuela, SM Hypermarket Pasig, SM Hypermarket Sucat, SM Hypermarket Laoag, SM Hypermarket Pampanga Clark, and SM Hypermarket Cavite Dasmariñas. The post Choosing perfect summer aircon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
`Compete with all your heart,’ Go tells SEA Games-bound athletes
On Monday, 24 April, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go expressed his full support for Filipino athletes competing in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia as he attended their send-off ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. The event was led by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. who encouraged the Filipino athletes to go for the gold and bring back the Philippines' number one spot in the Games. In an interview during the event, Go, as chair of the Senate Committee on Sports and a sports enthusiast himself, said he understands the value of sports in the lives of young Filipinos. "Nandirito po ako to support. Being a sports enthusiast, noon pa talagang mahilig na po ako sa sports," said Go. "And that’s one way of encouraging the youth to get into sports and stay away from drugs. Isa po ito sa pamamaraan na ilayo po natin ang ating mga kabataan sa iligal na droga. Get into sports, stay away from drugs, and keep them healthy and fit," he added. To help in this cause, Go shared that he sponsored and defended additional funding for the Philippine Sports Commission during its 2023 budget deliberation, particularly for grassroots sports development and in support of athletes joining international competitions. "Gaya noon, full support po ako sa ating mga atleta. Not only sa SEA Games, Asian Games, Olympics, full support po ako," he said. Go continued, "In fact, during the budget deliberation, ang budget po ng PSC less than P200 million. Ako po ‘yung nag-defend at nag-suggest ng dagdag sa pondo nila." "Nagdagdag po tayo ng P1 billion sa budget ng PSC including budget na po para sa Southeast Asian Games, sa iba pang mga grassroots program, not only sa international competition, pati sa local," he added. Particularly, the increase in the PSC's 2023 budget reflected in the General Appropriations Act is intended to support Filipino athletes in the 2022 Asian Games, 2023 Southeast Asian Games, and 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Furthermore, athletes competing in the ASEAN Para Games, Asian Indoor Martial Arts Games, World Combat Games, World Beach Games, Asian Beach Games, and World Beach Games will receive similar support. Portions of the funds were allotted for the country's hosting of the FIBA World Cup in 2023 as well as for several sports programs, such as Batang Pinoy, the Philippine National Games, and the grassroots program under the Sports Development Council. There are also funds allocated for the development of sports infrastructure across the country, as well as for advanced research and development in sports sciences and sports technology. When asked about his message to the athletes, Go echoed Marcos' words of encouragement, "Sinabi na rin po ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos kanina, 'Go, go, go for the gold.' Ibig sabihin sana magtsa-champion po tayo. Ibalik natin ‘yung pagiging No.1 natin." Go reminded the athletes that the important thing is to fight and compete with all their hearts, as Filipinos are known for their passion and perseverance. Around 860 Filipino athletes, 76 reserved players, and 347 sports officials, medical personnel, and support staff will travel to Cambodia to compete in 608 events across 38 sports categories from 5-17 May. With the impressive performance of Filipino athletes in the 2021 SEA Games in Vietnam, where they brought home 227 medals, including 52 gold, 70 silver, and 105 bronze, the Philippines is poised to once again make a strong showing in the upcoming games. In the 2019 SEA Games, the Philippines hosted the event and emerged as the overall champion with 149 gold medals, 117 silver medals, and 121 bronze medals. The National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act, or Republic Act No. 10699, entitles SEA Games gold medalists to a P300,000 incentive, silver medalists to P150,000, and bronze medalists to P60,000. During the Duterte administration, Go advocated for additional benefits to medalists. An advocate for grassroots sports development, Go earlier authored and co-sponsored RA 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports in 2020 as part of his vision to ensure promising young athletes can further hone their talents while getting quality education. The NAS is a government-run academy aimed at developing the country’s future athletes by offering quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. The senator also filed Senate Bill No. 423, or the proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022, to provide a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development The post `Compete with all your heart,’ Go tells SEA Games-bound athletes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Exclusive zone eyed for Tokyo bets
With plans now carefully laid out, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) inches closer to having some Olympic-bound athletes and hopefuls return to training under a bubble concept amid the pandemic. Chief of mission Mariano “Nonong” Araneta bared to Daily Tribune that they are just awaiting the budget approval from the Congress and green light from […] The post Exclusive zone eyed for Tokyo bets appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Congress promises PSC funding for Tokyo Olympics
Lawmakers promised to heed the Philippine Sports Commission’s call for financial support for the Tokyo Olympics next year. Congressmen who are members of the Committee on Youth and Sports Development gave a positive response when the government’s sports arm lobbied for Tokyo 2021 budget in the House of Representatives. "Rest assured that we will do our part to get the funding for this Olympics. All hands are in. Dapat lahat tayo dito. This is the best chance we have," said committee head Rep. Eric Martinez. He added that they would discuss the matter with the Department of Budget and Management and schedule it the soonest time possible because the athletes "need that budget for the Olympics." PSC Chairman William 'Butch' Ramirez during the regular committee meeting on Wednesday bared the sports agency's need for its slashed funds to continue supporting the training and competitions of Tokyo Olympic Games qualifiers and hopefuls vying for slots. "We were one of those government offices who also contributed to the Bayanihan Act. The DBM deducted from us. Para sa amin malaking bagay 'yun kasi kasama doon 'yung Olympic budget namin. Hanggang ngayon po bakante 'yan. It's an opportunity for us to ask, we need your help," expressed Ramirez. After presenting the Olympic budget request of more than P182 Million for Tokyo-bound athletes and hopefuls made by Chef de Mission (CDM) Mariano Araneta to the PSC, the sports agency chief highlighted the push Congress can give to the country's Olympic dream. "Rep. Bambol Tolentino has initially supported ‘yung P180 million na allowances ng atleta which was approved by the bicam, and to be approved by the President. Thank you sa lahat ng congressman na sumuporta. Pero 'yung Olympic budget namin, we are hoping again for your support," said Ramirez. The PSC chief informed the body that "the Philippine Sports Commission is operating on the savings coming from PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation)" and that "when we talk about the elite athletes of the national team, the budget being used is the NSDF (National Sports Development Fund)” prompting PSC to lessen grassroots sports program related to local government units. "Dito kami naka-focus sa elite athletes. We still have some budget just enough for us to reach December," admitted Ramirez in his response to Committee Vice-Chair Jericho Nograles' inquiry on the PSC's funds. To aid in the government’s effort to address the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, P596 million from the National Sports Development Fund and another P773 million from the General Appropriations Act by the DBM was slashed from the PSC’s budget. Gymnast Caloy Yulo, pole vaulter EJ Obiena and boxers Irish Magno and Eumir Marcial already qualified for the Summer Games. Eighty-two more hopefuls are training to earn spots in the Tokyo Olympics. .....»»
PSC vows full support to Team PHI all the way to Tokyo Olympics
Aspiring and Olympic-bound athletes will continue to receive support from the Philippine Sports Commission despite the agency’s belt-tightening measures brought about by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The Philippines already has four qualifiers for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which has been pushed back to next year, in pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena, male artistic gymnast Carlos Edriel Yulo, national boxers Eumir Felix Marcial and Irish Magno before the lockdown. The PSC board has assured that the agency will support them for as long as they can, explaining that the investment of both the government and the athletes into their Olympic dream cannot be set aside just that easily. This the PSC assures the athletes despite around P1.3 billion of its funds redirected back to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to fund the country’s COVID-19 fight. By virtue of Republic Act 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, P596 million, and P773 million were realigned by the DBM from the sports agency’s National Sports Development Fund and the fund from the General Appropriations Act (GAA), respectively. Even with this unexpected development, the PSC will keep true to its promise to support the Filipino athletes Olympic bid. In fact, PSC Chairman William Ramirez is hoping to send more athletes to represent the country in the prestigious multi-sport event. “We will not waiver in our quest to fulfill the country’s Olympic dream and we are very hopeful that more athletes will be able to qualify once the situation gets better,” shared Ramirez. The sports agency is banking its hopes on 2016 Rio Olympics silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz of weightlifting, four-time SEA Games champion Kiyomi Watanabe of judo, 2019 SEAG double-gold medal winner Margielyn Didal of skateboarding, multi-titled jin Pauline Lopez of taekwondo, and Junna Tsukii of karatedo among others. The budget cut has forced the sports agency to take belt-tightening measures in recent weeks, to be able to cover all commitments. “It’s a tough situation but we understand the priorities of the national government. We will do what we can to continue the support we give to our athletes especially those vying for an Olympic slot,” added Ramirez. Aside from financial support, the PSC also continues to provide online sports psychology consultations, virtual training sessions, nutrition, physiology, and conditioning webinars to athletes and coaches through PSC’s Medical Scientific Athletic Services (MSAS) and the Philippine Sports Institute (PSI)......»»
NBI nabs 8 bogus DBM officials
Eight people allegedly posing as officials of the Department of Budget and Management were apprehended by the National Bureau of Investigation in Mandaluyong on Tuesday......»»
Panatag is proven PH territory; China claims it by bogus history
A civilian supply expedition to Panatag (Scarborough) is set this summer. The shoal is Philippine territory. Filipinos have every right to enter its 15,000-hectare lagoon bound by rocks and reefs......»»
P1.1 billion released to restore heritage school buildings
The Department of Budget and Management has released P1.1 billion to conserve and restore heritage school buildings in the country......»»
Quizon second in Hanoi Grandmaster tourney
Olympiad-bound International Master Daniel Quizon continued his strong showing as he finished second in the second group of the two-bracket Hanoi Grandmaster Closed Tournament in Vietnam recently......»»
Philippines FDI ‘bound to improve’ in coming years – HSBC
The Philippines would be able to attract more foreign direct investments (FDI) in the coming years amid reforms that improved the country’s business climate, HSBC Global Research said......»»
Beijing 2008 Olympics: one world, one dream
For the 2008 Olympic Games, Beijing advocated the idea of "One World, One Dream." However, the dream of the Chinese government is not the dream of everyone. In a vast social system long known for its tight control over its population, it's difficult for controllers and the controlled to share the same ideas.It had been a dream for Beijing to host the Olympic Games ever since the International Olympic Committee (.....»»
Down Under Promotions supports ICC Bluehawks and BPBL
CEBU CITY, Philippines —The Sydney-bound Immaculada Concepcion College (ICC) Bluehawks senior men’s basketball team has earned the support of Down Under Promotions Sports and Events in their preparation for the Australian Chinese Basketball Association (ACBA). To recall, the ICC Bluehawks will represent the Philippines in the upcoming ACBA, which kicks off tomorrow. Besides the Philippines,.....»»
In-form Quizon finishes 2nd in group at Hanoi Grandmaster chess tilt
Olympiad-bound International Master Daniel Quizon continued his strong showing after he finished second in the second group of the two-bracket Hanoi Grandmaster Closed Tournament in Vietnam recently......»»
Twice s Jihyo, Olympian Yun Sung Bin reportedly dating
Jihyo of Korean girl group Twice and Olympic gold medalist for men's skeleton Yun Sung Bin are dating, according to several media outlets in South Korea......»»
Olympic, outreach cap fire prevention month
Olympic, outreach cap fire prevention month.....»»
Low subsidy forces LRTA to cut budget for train rehab
The Light Rail Transit Authority is cutting its budget for the restoration of trains to make the most of the lower subsidy given to the agency this year......»»
Canino is Olympiad bound
It was sealed by an 83-move draw with Woman FIDE Master Cherry Ann Mejia of a Sicilian in the 10th and penultimate round of the Philippine National Women’s Chess Championship at the Malolos City Hall in Bulacan......»»