Philippines aims to produce nearly 130,000 semiconductor talents by 2028
MANILA, March 11 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines is poised to produce a "robust talent pool" of 128,000 semiconductor professionals, including engineers and technicians, by 2028, the country's President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos said Monday. The Philippines is "ready to meet the expanding needs of high-technology industries," Marcos said in his address during the courtesy call of the U.S. government and Presidentia.....»»
Philippines suspends over 130 officials over rice sale scandal
MANILA, March 4 (Xinhua) -- The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the preventive suspension of the National Food Authority (NFA) head and 138 other officials and employees for their alleged involvement in a sale of rice buffer stock, Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said Monday. Laurel said the order started Monday while an investigation is underway to see if the accusations are true......»»
Samal resort gets notice of violation over hawksbill turtle hatchlings
The Department of Natural Resources-Davao Region (DENR-Davao) has issued a notice of violation to Isla Reta Beach Resort in Samal for the illegal possession of hawksbill turtle hatchlings. The resort violated Republic Act 9147, which prohibits the exploitation of wildlife resources and their habitats. The law strictly prohibits collecting, hunting, or possessing wildlife or their by-products, with penalties including imprisonment and fines. In response to the notice, the resort's owner must release the turtle hatchlings within a day, or face legal action. Despite the resort's intention to care for and release the hatchlings after six months, DENR-Davao found 130 hatchlings inside styro boxes and emphasized the critical importance of immediately releasing them to ensure their survival. The Philippines recognizes five sea turtle species, with hawksbill and leatherback classified as critically endangered. DENR-Davao encourages individuals to report wildlife sightings and pledges to conduct public awareness campaigns for wildlife conservation. Isla Reta Beach Resort faced criticism for unauthorized plans to raise the hatchlings......»»
Tulfo’s bill seeks to impose stricter penalties for drunk drivers
MANILA, Philippines — A bill seeking to impose stricter penalties for drunk drivers, including a fine of up to P1,000,000, has been filed by Senator Raffy Tulfo. At present, the current law penalizes drunk drivers who caused homicide with a fine ranging from P300,000 to P500,000. But Tulfo, through his Senate Bill No, 2546, proposed.....»»
Delivery drivers urge Mayor Baste for business permit exemption
Title: Delivery Drivers Seek Exemption from Business Permit Requirement A group of delivery drivers in Davao is urging Mayor Sebastian Duterte to exempt them from the mandatory business permits. The drivers, including those from various delivery apps such as Grab and FoodPanda, are concerned about the financial burden imposed by the business permits, which range from P2,000 to P6,000. They argue that this requirement is unique to Davao City among all cities and provinces in the Philippines. Grab rider Rolando Atico emphasized the need for solidarity among all delivery drivers, regardless of the app they work for. He urged fellow drivers to support each other, as the financial impact may extend beyond just Grab and FoodPanda. Atico also requested Mayor Duterte to reconsider the requirement and reinstate the previous occupational permit, which only cost P125. The group is facing a 30-day deadline to obtain the business permits, and they are citing financial constraints as a reason for their request for an extension. Failure to comply could result in their removal from the delivery platforms, jeopardizing their livelihoods. Additionally, they are advocating for changes to Davao City's Revenue Code, proposing a model similar to Cebu City, where only an occupational permit is required. The drivers are also calling for an inquiry into the lack of transparency and unilateral actions of food delivery companies, particularly concerning rider capitalization and financial concerns. They believe that a thorough investigation will help ensure fairness and equity in their financial obligations and working relationship with the delivery companies. Maribel Paguican, the Business Bureau officer-in-charge, stated that non-certified delivery riders categorized as service contractors must obtain a business permit. She mentioned two permits for occupational and business activities, with a discounted structure for delivery riders. However, concerns have been raised about increased taxes, potentially ranging from P3,000 to P6,000, along with an additional tax on top of the declared income of P1,400. The delivery drivers' plea for exemption from the business permit requirement reflects their concerns about the financial impact and the potential threat to their livelihoods. Their call for solidarity and support from fellow drivers highlights the urgency of the situation. This story sheds light on the challenges faced by delivery drivers in Davao and the implications of the business permit requirement on their financial well-being. It also underscores their efforts to seek fairness and equity in their working relationship with the authorities and delivery companies......»»
Pacers set NBA playoff shooting mark, top Knicks 130-109 in Game 7 to make Eastern Conference finals
NEW YORK (AP) — When the Indiana Pacers compiled one of the best offensive seasons in NBA history, they were just getting warmed up. For Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, they delivered something really spectacular. Tyrese Haliburton scored 26 points and the Pacers set an NBA playoff record by shooting 67.1% from the.....»»
Knicks repel Pacers for 2-0 lead
The hobbled New York Knicks have taken a commanding 2-0 lead in their best-of-seven Eastern Conference semifinals matchup after pulling away in the second half against the Indiana Pacers, 130-121, at Madison Square Garden Thursday morning (Manila time)......»»
Tahanang Pinakamasaya bids farewell, 130 employees displaced — reports
Television and Production Exponents (TAPE) Inc.'s "Tahanang Pinakamasaya" has bid farewell, according to reports......»»
Biz Bureau surpasses 43-K permit renewals
The Davao City Business Bureau has achieved a significant milestone by processing over 43,000 business permit renewals as of January 29, 2024, surpassing last year's numbers. Maribel Paguican, the Head of the Business Bureau, revealed this accomplishment in a radio interview on January 30, 2024. She highlighted the bureau's performance, stating that they had already exceeded the previous year's figures by 270 renewals. Despite the positive outcome, Paguican acknowledged that they are still short of reaching the 46,000 permits issued the previous year. With approximately 2,890 renewals remaining, including 291 applicants considering retirement, the bureau anticipates around 2,599 renewal applicants. Paguican emphasized the upcoming retirement deadline on January 31, urging business owners to comply to avoid penalties ranging from P1,000 to P5,000. She also advised on the required documentation for retirement, emphasizing the importance of submitting the necessary paperwork to facilitate the process......»»
Traslacion in CDO: from 110,000 last year to only 18,000 devotees this year
CAGAYAN DE ORO (MindaNews / 11 January) – A parish priest here blamed tight police security for the sharp drop in attendance during the Traslacion or the procession of the Black Nazarene here last Tuesday, with only 18,000 attendees compared with last year’s 110,000. Monsignor Rey Monsanto, parish priest of Our Lady Fatima Parish in Barangay […].....»»
1, 246 in Lapu-Lapu City receive P3,000 cash aid
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu – A total of 1,246 beneficiaries in Lapu-Lapu City received financial assistance worth P3,000 each during the nationwide launch of the “Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program” (AKAP) on Saturday, May 18. AKAP is a national government program that aims to distribute cash aid to Filipinos who are in need, especially.....»»
MACAU DAILY TIMES New Filipino womens association aims to be beacon of hope among fellow migrants
A group of Filipino women has created an association with the shared desire for change and to create a platform for strengthening community support amongst women. Recent tragedies late last year and earlier this year claimed the lives of two Filipino workers by suicide, leaving a void in the lives of the associations founders. While [] The post New Filipino womens association aims to be beacon of hope among fellow migrant.....»»
Japan: Yokohama aims for tourism boost, sustainability with Smart City initiatives
Tokyo [Japan], February 8 (ANI): Nestled in the heart of Japan, Yokohama stands as a coveted tourist destination, captivating visitors with its allure. With a vision for sustainable growth, the city now aims to enhance its charm and appeal by embracing smart initiatives, fostering a more sustainable and intelligent urban experience. To realise this vision, Yokohama City organised the Y-Ship global event in December last y.....»»
Japan: Yokohama aims for tourism boost, sustainability with Smart City initiatives
Tokyo [Japan], February 8 (ANI): Nestled in the heart of Japan, Yokohama stands as a coveted tourist destination, captivating visitors with its allure. With a vision for sustainable growth, the city now aims to enhance its charm and appeal by embracing smart initiatives, fostering a more sustainable and intelligent urban experience. To realise this vision, Yokohama City organised the Y-Ship global event in December last y.....»»
NICE, Ganda! NICE, SARAP! McDonald’s comes out with oh-so-satisfying Chicken McDo
Summary: McDonald’s Introduces Bigger, Juicier, and Crispier Chicken McDo McDonald’s has unveiled an enhanced version of its beloved Chicken McDo, promising a more satisfying and flavorful experience for chicken enthusiasts. The new and improved Chicken McDo boasts larger and juicier cuts, coupled with a revamped breading process that results in a crispier and flakier skin. This upgrade aims to elevate the dining experience, ensuring that every bite is succulent and fulfilling. In addition to the enhanced chicken offering, McDonald’s is also introducing value-packed meal options to cater to different preferences. Customers can indulge in the 1pc Chicken McDo with DOUBLE Rice for a hearty and filling meal, or opt for the 1pc Chicken McDo with McFloat for a refreshing accompaniment. The reimagined Chicken McDo has garnered praise from renowned personality Vice Ganda, who has expressed her delight with the improvements. McDonald’s has made the new Chicken McDo available for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, and delivery, ensuring that customers can savor its delectable taste at their convenience. For those eager to explore more exciting deals and promotions related to the Chicken McDo, McDonald’s encourages users to download the McDonald’s App and McDelivery App, and stay updated on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. Overall, McDonald’s Chicken McDo aims to satisfy cravings with its bigger, juicier, and crispier appeal, offering a delectable chicken experience that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere......»»
Philippines launches campaign to boost halal industry
MANILA, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines on Tuesday launched a four-year plan to boost the halal industry, hoping to turn the country into a leading halal hub in the Asia-Pacific region by 2028. Philippine Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual said the Philippine Halal Industry Development Strategic Plan "aspires to establish the Philippines as a customer-focused, collaborative, comprehensive, and comp.....»»
Philippines launches campaign to boost halal industry
MANILA, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines on Tuesday launched a four-year plan to boost the halal industry, hoping to turn the country into a leading halal hub in the Asia-Pacific region by 2028. Philippine Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual said the Philippine Halal Industry Development Strategic Plan "aspires to establish the Philippines as a customer-focused, collaborative, comprehensive, and comp.....»»
El Nino pattern costs Philippine agriculture over 68 mln USD
MANILA, April 19 (Xinhua) -- The El Nino dry spell and drought damage to Philippine agriculture has reached over 3.94 billion pesos (roughly 68 million U.S. dollars), official data released on Friday showed. According to the Department of Agriculture, 11 regions across the Southeast Asian country are reeling from the weather phenomenon, which has affected nearly 74,000 farmers and fisherfolk. More than 66,000 he.....»»
El Nino costs Philippine agriculture up to 18.9 mln USD
MANILA, March 6 (Xinhua) -- The Philippine government said Wednesday that the El Nino dry spell and drought has cost Philippine agriculture over 1 billion pesos (roughly 18.9 million U.S. dollars) while the climate pattern may persist till the second quarter this year. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said El Nino has affected over 23,000 farmers and fisherfolk, damaged nearly 18,000 h.....»»
Xinhua world economic news summary at 0900 GMT, March 6
MANILA -- The Philippine government said Wednesday that the El Nino dry spell and drought has cost Philippine agriculture over 1 billion pesos (roughly 18.9 million U.S. dollars) while the climate pattern may persist till the second quarter this year. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said El Nino has affected over 23,000 farmers and fisherfolk, damaged nearly 18,000 hectares of crop ar.....»»
Indonesian polling stations open in election to replace Jokowi
Nearly 259,000 candidates are contesting 20,600 posts across the archipelago of 17,000 islands in the world's biggest single-day election, but all eyes are on the presidency and the fate of Jokowi's ambitious agenda.....»»