PMI Bohol, Riverside Mandaue pugs log 2 wins in Villamor Boxing Gym’s grassroots program
CEBU CITY, Philippines — PMI Bohol Boxing Team and Riverside Mandaue’s pugs shone the brightest in the resumption of the Boxing Gym’s monthly grassroots program at the Villamor Boxing Gym (VBG) in Pagsabungan, Mandaue City on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023. This was after both the visiting Boholano boxers of PMI Bohol Boxing Team and Riverside […] The post PMI Bohol, Riverside Mandaue pugs log 2 wins in Villamor Boxing Gym’s grassroots program appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
13 amateur bouts featured in VBG’s monthly grassroots program
CEBU CITY, Philippines— Thirteen exciting amateur bouts will be featured in the resumption of the Villamor Boxing Gym’s monthly grassroots program at the Villamor Boxing Gym (VBG) in Pagsabungan, Mandaue City. The monthly amateur slugfest is held in cooperation with the World Boxing Foundation (WBF) and the PMI Bohol Boxing Promotions. Boxers from Pagsabungan, Carcar […] The post 13 amateur bouts featured in VBG’s monthly grassroots program appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Pagsabungan, Babag 2 boxers shine in Villamor Boxing grassroots fight card
CEBU CITY, Philippines—Boxers from Barangay Pagsabungan, Mandaue and Babag 2, Lapu-Lapu City put up a good performance in the amateur boxing monthly grassroots fight card of the Villamor Boxing Gym in Mandaue City on Sunday, March 19, 2023. Pagsabungan and Babag 2 each bagged three wins in the 16-bout fight card backed by the PMI […] The post Pagsabungan, Babag 2 boxers shine in Villamor Boxing grassroots fight card appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
More bouts lined up for Villamor grassroots boxing tournament
CEBU CITY, Philippines —Additional amateur bouts guarantee to spice up the Villamor Boxing Gym (VBG) amateur monthly grassroots program that will unfold tomorrow, March 20, at the VBG Gym in Barangay Pagsabungan, Mandaue City. The monthly amateur boxing tournament organized by Edito “ALA” Villamor, veteran boxing trainer, matchmaker, and former two-time world title challenger, recently […] The post More bouts lined up for Villamor grassroots boxing tournament appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Young boxers from Sarok BG, Cebu City, Carcar shine in Villamor grassroots tilt
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Young boxers from the Sarok Boxing Gym, Cebu City, and Napo, Carcar City sizzled in the monthly amateur boxing fight card of the Villamor Boxing Gym in Pagsabungan, Mandaue City on Saturday, March 11. The Sarok Boxing Gym of Consolacion town, north Cebu clinched three wins, while Cebu City and Napo, […] The post Young boxers from Sarok BG, Cebu City, Carcar shine in Villamor grassroots tilt appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Edito Villamor: Giving back to boxing through his grassroots program
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Edito Villamor, the former ALA Boxing Gym chief trainer has indeed come a long way in organizing a grassroots amateur boxing program in his gym in Mandaue City. On Saturday, Villamor will hold one of the biggest amateur boxing events in Mandaue this year which he billed the “Battle of the […] The post Edito Villamor: Giving back to boxing through his grassroots program appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Go lauds Capiztahan Swimfest, sends out aid to indigents
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, congratulated the provincial government of Capiz, led by Governor Fredenil Castro, for successfully holding its Capiztahan Swimfest from 14 to 16 April at the Villareal Stadium in Roxas City. “Nais ko po sanang batiin lahat ng mga manlalaro na nagmula sa iba't ibang panig ng rehiyon upang makilahok sa kompetisyon na ito. Ang inyong dedikasyon at pagsisikap ang nagdala sa inyo dito, at tiyak na ibibigay ninyo ang inyong buong puso sa inyong laban,” expressed Go through a message delivered by his representative present during the event. Go was scheduled to personally join the event that day but due to technical issues with the aircraft, his visit was rescheduled to Monday in Capiz where he visited the Malasakit Center in Roxas City. He also joined the groundbreaking of two Super Health Centers and provided assistance to indigents in Panit-an and Panay towns. “As we all know, sports play an essential role in our lives. They not only keep us physically fit but also help us develop important values like discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. They also teach us to face challenges and overcome them with determination, which is a valuable lesson that we can apply in all aspects of our lives,” he continued. The Swimfest is just one out of the 14 sporting events featured in Capiztahan 2023 as there will also be jujitsu, windsurfing, taekwondo, arnis, lawn tennis, invitational motocross, chess, boxing, mixed martial arts, table tennis, bodybuilding, skimboard, and criterium race. The sports festival aims to promote physical fitness, healthy competition, and camaraderie among the residents of Capiz, particularly the youth. It also provides a platform for local athletes to showcase their skills and talents in various sports and to represent their respective towns and cities in friendly competitions. “Sa lahat ng mga magulang at guardians na naririto ngayon, nais kong pasalamatan kayo sa inyong pagsuporta sa mga pangarap ng inyong mga anak na mahilig sa sports,” cited Go. “Ang inyong pagmamahal at suporta ang nagtulak sa kanila upang magpatuloy sa kanilang mga pangarap, at hindi nila makakamit ito ngayon kung hindi sa inyong walang-sawang suporta,” he added. Go’s team also raffled off a pair of shoes and a bike for the participants of the swimfest. Board Member Thea Faith Reyes was present during the event and expressed gratitude to Go for his continuing support of the province. Meanwhile, Go’s team led a relief operation for 1,000 indigents at the Civic Center. They gave away grocery packs, vitamins, snacks, masks, and shirts to the residents. They also provided bicycles, cellular phones, shoes, umbrellas, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select beneficiaries. Representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development were also in attendance and extended financial assistance. “I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the organizers of this event, including the local government, for their hard work in putting together this wonderful competition. It takes a lot of effort and dedication to organize such an event, and I commend you for your tireless efforts,” Go highlighted. “Let us all enjoy this day of healthy competition and camaraderie. To all the swimmers, I wish you the best of luck, and may the best person win. Patuloy nating itaguyod ang sports upang maitaguyod ang ating pagkakaisa at magandang kinabukasan para sa ating bansa,” he concluded. On the same day, Go sent his outreach teams to Panay and Panitan towns to likewise assist struggling residents. Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, was instrumental in pushing an additional budget for the Philippine Sports Commission in order to support the preparation, training, and participation of Filipino athletes in upcoming sports competitions and to implement effective programs to hone the skills of more young and aspiring athletes. Particularly, the increase in the PSC's 2023 budget reflected in the General Appropriations Act is intended to support Filipino athletes in the 2023 Asian Games, 2023 Southeast Asian Games, and 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. It can also be recalled that Go has successfully authored and co-sponsored a bill in the Senate which became Republic Act No. 11470 in 2020. The Act mandated the establishment of the National Academy of Sports System and Main Campus in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac. 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. “Simula sa grassroots level, d’yan talaga nag-uumpisa ang mga atleta natin. Kaya rin po naisabatas na ang National Academy for Sports, isa pong eskwelahan kung saan po nakakapag-aral at the same time nakakapag-training ang mga kabataan. Pag-aaral at the same time training, training at the same time pag-aaral. Walang naisasakripisyo,” said Go. The lawmaker also introduced Senate Bill No. 423 or the proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022. The proposed measure aims to institutionalize “a truly comprehensive national grassroots sports program, which will harness the vast potential of the citizenry in discovering and developing champion athletes who could excel in international sports competition, thus giving the country pride and international goodwill and addressing the long-standing problems of Philippine sports in general.” Furthermore, the bill seeks to ensure a more inclusive system of promoting promising Filipino athletes who possess potential in various fields of sports to be given an equal opportunity of becoming future contenders in international sporting competitions and cement the country’s status as a "Sports Powerhouse in Asia." The post Go lauds Capiztahan Swimfest, sends out aid to indigents appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Paalam a testament to efficient Philippine boxing grassroots program
Like many boxers before him, Paalam is from humble beginnings, taking boxing in his spare time as a scavenger of recyclable materials......»»
Villanueva, Barriga notch confidence-boosting wins in ‘Kumbati 8 & 9’
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Two-time world title challenger “King” Arthur Villanueva and Olympian Mark “Pretty Boy” Barriga earned confidence-boosting victories in Omega Pro Sports International’s one-day double-boxing event, “Kumbati 8 & 9” at the IPI compound in Mandaue City last Saturday, March 27, 2021. The 32-year-old Villanueva, a former ALA Boxing Gym stalwart, showcased his […] The post Villanueva, Barriga notch confidence-boosting wins in ‘Kumbati 8 & 9’ appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
‘Kumbati’: Big Yellow Boxing gym pugs aim for upsets
CEBU CITY, Philippines— Two Big Yellow Boxing Gym pugilists are eyeing to stage huge upsets in the upcoming “Kumbati” boxing series slated on March 27, 2021, at the IPI Compound in Mandaue City. Christopher “Ping-Ping” Tepora, Big Yellow Boxing Gym’s head trainer, will pit his unbeaten ward Allan Villanueva and pro debutee Reycar Auxilio against […] The post ‘Kumbati’: Big Yellow Boxing gym pugs aim for upsets appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
2020 king of recruiting crown remains on UP’s head
Who was our King of Recruiting in 2018? Find out here. Who was our King of Recruiting in 2019? Find out here. --- From 2007 to 2015, the University of the Philippines only had 13 wins to show in 126 games total. That time is self-deprecatingly called in Diliman as the dark days. Due to that disappointing standing, the Fighting Maroons had the toughest time bringing in recruits. And due to that lack of pieces to the puzzles, they lost even more. Safe to say, State U was stuck in a vicious cycle in the dark days. That’s not to say they didn’t have blue-chip recruits back then as in their time, all of Woody Co, Mark Juruena, Mike Gamboa, Kyles Lao, Jett Manuel, and Mikee Reyes were among the best high school players. Only, a blue-chip recruit or two does not make a team. Fast forward to now and oh, how things have changed. Last year, UP was hailed as ABS-CBN’s King of Recruiting alongside University of the East. “On the strength of the transfers of Kobe Paras and Ricci Rivero, the Fighting Maroons… are worthy of the title,” it said then. And the season before that, the maroon and green was also up there with the best of them in terms of recruitment, having brought in the likes of eventual Season MVP Bright Akhuetie, Will Gozum, and Jaydee Tungcab. Indeed, there was nowhere to go but up. That has only continued this year as UP has left no doubt that it is now a force to reckon with in terms of recruitment. Early on, they already had a solid haul in Joel Cagulangan, once the best point guard in high school, and tireless workhorse Malick Diouf. And then, the shock of shocks. As it turned out, Nazareth School of National University stalwarts Carl Tamayo and Gerry Abadiano were going to be Fighting Maroons. Meaning, for the first time in recent history, the most promising prospect coming out of high school is headed to Diliman. Not only that, State U also answered its biggest question heading into next season – the question at point guard, filling in for Jun Manzo. But as it turned out, they weren’t done just yet - no, our friends, they weren’t done just yet. Tamayo and Abadiano’s departure from National U was shocking, without a doubt, but CJ Cansino’s exit from University of Sto. Tomas was even more so. Cansino, against his will, decided to move on from his alma mater since 2015 due to personal reasons. Fortunately for him, he landed on his feet. Now, the Fighting Maroons have ready-made replacement for Rivero as well as a leader in the shades of Paul Desiderio for UAAP 84. And that, our friends, is why we have no choice but to put the 2020 King of Recruiting crown on UP’s head once more. Tamayo and Abadiano are the bluest of blue-chip recruits this year and Cagulangan, Cansino, and Diouf are among the most talented transferees, but also joining them in the maroon and green will be scoring machine RC Calimag from La Salle Green Hills, burly big Miguel Tan from Xavier High School, Filipino-American playmaker Sam Dowd, Filipino-Australian tower Ethan Kirkness, physical forward Jancork Cabahug from University of Visayas, and versatile wing CJ Catapusan from Adamson University. The former Bullpups are guaranteed ato be contributors even as rookies while Calimag, Tan, and Dowd are going to shore up a bench that had just lost Gomez de Liano brothers Javi and Juan. Of course, Diouf, Kirkness, Cansino, Cabahug, and Cagulangan are still serving residency, but when they will be eligible, they will get a shot at a squad that will look brand new. All of Bright Akhuetie, J-Boy Gob, David Murrell, Noah Webb, and Rivero are graduating players while Paras is only guaranteed to play one more year. That means that after Season 83, the Fighting Maroons may very well have to fill six spots. That means that UP is not only beefing up for UAAP 83, it is also securing its future. If not for the shock of shocks, though, the crown would have been claimed by De La Salle University which sent a statement that it is back and better than ever. Justine Baltazar and Aljun Melecio may be playing their fifth and final years in college, but the green and white’s future has only brightened following this prolonged preseason. First and foremost, Kevin Quiambao, the third leg in that National U tripod of talent out of high school, has the capability and confidence to follow in the footsteps of Baltazar. Hopefully, he will be eligible for Season 83, but if not, what’s certain is he will be playing in UAAP 84. Alongside him as pieces for the future are super scorers CJ Austria and Emman Galman, all-around swingman Joshua Ramirez, and Filipino-Americans Jeromy Hughes, Kameron Vales, and Philips bros. Benjamin and Michael. Among all those, Jonnel Policarpio, likened to a young Arwind Santos, has the highest upside, but the Fil-Ams have much potential as well. And don’t forget that Evan Nelle, the primetime playmaker from San Beda University, is just getting primed and prepped to take the reins when Melecio leaves. Of course, the caveat here is that we are all in uncharted territory due to the continuing COVID-19 crisis. And in that light, the next season of the UAAP remains far away and a lot could still happen until then. While majority of the local blue-chip recruits have already committed, talents from abroad and transferees from other schools could still come and change the game. With that being said, there remains no doubt that UP and La Salle have made the biggest noise in the offseason. However, it’s not actually the Fighting Maroons or the Green Archers who got the lion’s share of the best graduating players in the 2020 NBTC 24. Yes, that honor belongs to Lyceum of the Philippines University which is finally reaping the rewards of its rising Jrs. program with NCAA 95 Jrs. MVP John Barba and Batang Gilas playmaker Mac Guadana being promoted as full-fledged Pirates. Guadana could do it all and looks like the next great guard in the Grand Old League while fearless slasher is Barba is a perfect complement to him. Add another fiery guard in John Bravo and sweet-shooting big man Carlo Abadeza and LPU has restocked its coffers after losing Marcelino twins Jaycee and Jayvee and Cameroonian powerhouse Mike Nzeusseu. In all though, the 2020 NBTC 24 was dominated by UP… and San Beda. Of the annual rankings’ 15 graduating players, four would be Fighting Maroons and another four would be Red Lions. Yes, San Beda’s grassroots program is back on track with its Jrs. championship core all remaining in red and white. Rhayyan Amsali, ranked no. 1 in the 2020 NBTC 24, is the most college-ready high school player while Justine Sanchez is a long-limbed forward who could turn out to be the next Calvin Oftana, you know, the NCAA 95 MVP. Yukien Andrada, meanwhile, is only continuing to develop his two-way game and Tony Ynot is a 3-and-D weapon who had even left an impression on Jalen Green. And hey, as somebody said, don’t sleep on the UAAP’s three-time defending champions. Ateneo may already be missing Isaac Go, Thirdy Ravena, Adrian Wong, and Nieto twins Mike and Matt and they may not be making noise as of late, but they are still welcoming Dave Ildefonso and Dwight Ramos with open arms. Ildefonso will only be good to go come UAAP 84, but Ramos is already being seen by head coach Tab Baldwin as a difference-maker for the Blue Eagles in Season 83. Eli, Dwight’s younger brother, is also in the mix to backstop SJ Belangel and Tyler Tio. Note also that former blue-chip recruit Inand Fornilos may very well finally get his shot while both Jolo Mendoza and Raffy Verano are also back. Ateneo’s foe in the Finals last year also reloaded quite a bit as for the third year in a row, UST will be sending the Tiger Cubs’ best player to the Srs. squad. Following in the footsteps of Cansino and Mark Nonoy, post player Bismarck Lina will be a Growling Tiger next season. Alongside him to fortify the frontcourt are Christian Manaytay, Bryan Samudio, and Bryan Santos while bolstering the backcourt are Joshua Fontanilla and Paul Manalang. Speaking of fortifying the frontcourt, Far Eastern University is the team that got the biggest boost in terms of size. With 6-foot-7 Nigerian Emman Ojoula’s residency over and done with, the go-go guards of the Tamaraws have yet another weapon to burn opponents with. CESAFI MVP Kevin Guibao and transferee Simone Sandagon are no slouches either while Cholo Anonuevo has a roster spot waiting for him if and when he decides to come home after trying his luck in the US. RJ Abarrientos no longer appears here as he was already in FEU’s list last year. These are the new faces to see for the other teams: CSB Blazers LETRAN Knights JRU Heavy Bombers MAPUA Cardinals ADAMSON Soaring Falcons UE Red Warriors --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @riegogogo......»»
Former Pinoy world champ Malcolm Tuñacao happy working as garbage collector in Japan
Back in 2000, way before the peak of the popularity of Pinoy boxing's biggest names like Manny Pacquiao, Nonito Donaire Jr., and Donnie Nietes, a Cebuano named Malcolm "Eagle Eye" Tuñacao was riding high as the WBC Flyweight World Champion. The then-22-year old Tuñacao defeated and dethroned Thailand's Boonsai Sangsurat to become the WBC's new flyweight king. If fact, it was a young Pacquiao that Sangsurat TKO'd to capture that very title. In 2014, Tuñacao competed in the final fight of his career, a technical decision win over Ryuta Otsuka, to finish with a 35-3-3 professional record with 20 wins via KO/TKO. Now, 20 years after his world title run, Tuñacao is based in Kobe, Japan and works as a garbage collector. While most people would see his current status as a fall from grace - from world champion prize fighter to blue collar employee - Tuñacao is pretty content with where he is in life. Speaking to Chino Trinidad on an episode of Buhay Boksingero, "Eagle Eye" shared how his life has been like after his boxing career. “Okay lang yun, basta ang importante, yung trabaho ko, hindi ako nang-lalamang ng tao, maganda yung trabaho ko, marangal na trabaho. Sa Bisaya, ‘tinarong na trabaho," Tuñacao said of his job. “Importante may trabaho, tapos marangal na trabaho. Para sa akin, masaya na ako sa trabaho ko ngayon eh, hindi mahirap. Wala akong inargabyado na tao, wala akong tinapakan na tao, nag-sisikap ako dito para sa pamilya ko.” Tuñacao said that in Japan, one of the cleanest countries in the world, garbage collectors are seen in a different light than in most other places. “Mataas ang tingin sa amin, sa aming mga basurero…maraming tao na nagbibigay ng tubig, nagbibigay ng pera minsan. Kanina, binigyan kami ng pan (Japanese for bread) tapos kape.” “Yung ibang tao, pag-kita sa aming mga basurero, masaya sila. Nirerespeto kami, yun ang importante," he added. Tuñacao, a native of Mandaue City, says that he owes a lot to Antonio Aldeger, the man behind one of the Philippines' premier boxing stables: ALA Boxing. “Hindi ko makalimutan yung, kasi bata pa ko nag-simula, eight years old, hanggang 38, 30 years ako sa boxing. Hindi ko makalimutan, mahirap yung pinag-daanan ko sa boxing. Kung hindi ako kinuha ni sir [Tony] Aldeguer dati, baka wala na ako.“ He also mentioned Peñalosa as one of the driving forces behind him ultimately turning pro. "Masaya na ako dito sa trabaho ko at nagpapasalamat ako sa mga tao na tumutulong sa akin, lalo na kay Gerry Peñalosa, isa din yun na nakatulong sa akin. Kung hindi dahil sa kanya, hindi ako nag-pro.” Check out the full interview with Tuñacao HERE .....»»
Aboitiz’s ‘Byaheng Digiskarte’ campaign wins IABC Gold Quill Award
The Aboitiz Group won the prestigious 2023 International Association of Business Communicators Gold Quill Award of Merit for its groundbreaking corporate social responsibility initiative, “Byaheng Digiskarte.” The initiative was crafted to spur the recovery and growth of micro, small and medium enterprises and cooperatives adversely affected by the pandemic. “Byaheng Digiskarte” comes from “byahe,” meaning journey, and “digiskarte,” a portmanteau of “digital” and “diskarte,” meaning strategy. Leveraging digital tools and innovative business approaches, the pioneering project empowers beneficiaries to adapt swiftly to an ever-evolving business environment. This included onboarding members to digital platforms so that they could start online businesses. Going beyond economic revitalization, “Byaheng Digiskarte” also aims to foster financial inclusion by encouraging the unbanked segment of the Filipino population to open their first-ever bank accounts through the Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines. Renowned globally as a community of accomplished communication professionals, the IABC confers its highly coveted Gold Quill Awards to acknowledge excellence in strategic communication. The Gold Quill Blue Ribbon Panel evaluators, made up of communication experts boasting decades of experience, reviewed 395 entries from 16 countries against the IABC Gold Quill Award criteria and Seven-Point Scale of Excellence. The Gold Quill Awards reception will be held in Toronto, Canada on 6 June 2023, where the Aboitiz Group’s “Byaheng Digiskarte” program will be recognized among exceptional communication works from around the world. Said one of the judges: “The entry was easy to understand and the opportunity, audiences and goals were easy to follow. It is apparent the team put thought into the different audiences, how to reach them and how to reinforce the key messaging.” Praising the Aboitiz Group’s exceptional work, another judge added, “You demonstrated a strategic mindset in showcasing a well-executed project that not only accomplished but exceeded its stated objectives during a challenging pandemic. Great work!” [caption id="attachment_135101" align="aligncenter" width="525"] After planting and harvesting their own farm produce, farmers and agripreneurs were provided equipment by the Aboitiz Foundation to process food products such as pickles, tea and jam.[/caption] As the Aboitiz Group advances on its “Great Transformation” to become the Philippines’ first “techglomerate,” “Byaheng Digiskarte” reflects this commitment to innovation, digital transformation and drive to positively impact surrounding businesses and communities. By leveraging technology to uplift businesses and promote financial inclusion, the Aboitiz Group sets the stage for a future where technology and innovation are at the forefront of operations. “This project is close to our hearts as we believe in the power of innovation to transform lives. We saw the need to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities, particularly in the area of digital literacy. Receiving the Quill Award is a great honor, but it is also a reminder of the responsibility we have to continue making a positive impact in the communities we serve. We take this recognition as an inspiration to do even more and to do it better,” Aboitiz Foundation president and chief operating officer Maribeth Marasigan said. Since its launch in April 2021, Byaheng Digiskarte has made significant headway, involving extensive visits to remote areas across the Philippines, collaborative consultations and partnerships with government agencies and private enterprises. Through mentoring sessions and the provision of cutting-edge tools, this initiative has assisted farmers and agripreneurs affected by the pandemic, leading to income growth. As of December 2022, over 127 cooperatives with nearly 10,000 members have received comprehensive training, which includes digital marketing, equipment handling, reputation building and financial management, among other vital skills. Two cooperatives, comprising over a thousand members, have successfully digitized their internal coop processes, while 19 cooperatives with more than 6,000 members have ventured into new cooperative businesses. “Byaheng Digiskarte” has also facilitated almost a thousand beneficiaries in opening their first bank accounts with UnionBank, solidifying the Aboitiz Group’s commitment to providing accessible financial services. The post Aboitiz’s ‘Byaheng Digiskarte’ campaign wins IABC Gold Quill Award appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go joins Manggahan Festival in Guimaras
Emphasizing his commitment to uplifting cultural celebrations and promoting sportsmanship, Senator Bong Go visited Jordan, Guimaras on Friday, 19 May, where he personally attended the Manggahan Festival and as part of the program, witnessed the volleyball tournament at the provincial gymnasium. The Manggahan Festival celebrated annually in Guimaras, pays homage to the province's mango industry. As a major highlight of the festival, the streets of Jordan came alive with vibrant colors, cultural performances, and mango-themed displays. The festival provides a platform for farmers, entrepreneurs, and artisans to showcase their talents, products, and cultural heritage to a broader audience. Go lauded the local community for showcasing its cultural heritage while promoting its products such as its locally harvested mangoes which Guimaras is famous for. During his visit, he also partook in the ‘Mango Eat All You Can’ festivities and vowed to make efforts to promote the local industry. In the Senate, Go authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1594 which was recently approved by the Senate on the third and final reading. If passed, the measure shall institutionalize the One Town, One Product Philippines Program and shall serve as a government stimulus program to encourage the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises in the country through the utilization of indigenous raw materials, local traditions, and cultures across the country. As part of the festival, a volleyball tournament was organized where Go, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, showed his support for the participating athletes. In his short speech, the senator underscored his passion for sports and his belief in its ability to foster unity and teamwork, especially among the youth. “Kung mayroon ho kayong mga pangangailangan sa mga grassroots sports program tulad ng volleyball, magsabi lang po kayo sa aking opisina (at) handa po akong tumulong sa inyo sa abot ng aking makakaya. Dahil isa po ito sa pamamaraan na ilayo natin ang mga kabataan sa masasamang bisyo tulad ng ilegal na droga at magabayan sila na maging mga responsableng mamamayan,” emphasized Go. Continuing his remarks, Go emphasized the need for increased investment, infrastructure, and opportunities for athletes at all levels. He likewise highlighted the role of sports in nation-building, emphasizing its ability to bring people together towards a common goal. The senator stressed that supporting the sports sector is not only about winning medals but also about promoting camaraderie, discipline, and values among athletes. By investing in sports, the senator expressed that the country can harness the potential of its talented athletes, inspiring future generations and fostering a stronger, more united citizenry. Go personally showed his support to Filipino athletes in the recently concluded Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia on 12 and 13 May. As a testament to his commitment, the senator vowed that he will continue to push for necessary support that would serve as a morale boost and inspire Filipino athletes to give their best. Promoting inclusivity and equality in sports, Bong Go earlier proposed additional incentives for National Para Athletes who win medals in international sports competitions. Go has filed Senate Bill No. 2116 that seeks to amend Section 8 of Republic Act No. 10699 or the "National Athletes And Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act.” If enacted into law, the bill shall upgrade the incentives for para-athletes to be at par with other international competitions of the same caliber. He also continues to push for his proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022, which seeks to ensure a more inclusive system of promoting promising Filipino athletes who possess potential in various fields of sports to be given an equal opportunity of becoming future contenders in international sporting competitions and cement the country’s status as a ‘Sports Powerhouse in Asia’. Go was also instrumental in the 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. Following the Manggahan Festival, Go also took time to conduct a monitoring visit to the Malasakit Center at Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Provincial Hospital and provide aid to patients and front-liners. Later that day, Go also visited Buenavista town in Guimaras where he led the groundbreaking of the town’s Super Health Center, spearheaded a relief operation for indigents, and visited local infrastructure initiatives he earlier supported such as the Buenavista Wharf and a seawall in the town. The post Bong Go joins Manggahan Festival in Guimaras appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go aids indigents in Lapu-Lapu City
The team of Senator Bong Go visited Lapu-Lapu City in Cebu on Tuesday, May 16, to hand out assistance to struggling Cebuanos, including members of the youth sector and a fire-hit household. Held in the mayor's conference room at the Lapu-Lapu City Hall, Go’s team distributed snacks, masks, vitamins, and shirts to a total of 20 residents. In addition, a fire-hit family received grocery packs. They also handed out cellular phones, umbrellas, and balls for basketball and volleyball. “Ang gamit po ay nabibili pero ang buhay po ay hindi. Ang nawalang buhay ay wala na. A lost life is a lost life forever, kaya mag-ingat tayo palagi. Magtulungan lang po tayo, mga kababayan ko. Makakaahon din po tayo muli,” Go said in his video message. The senator principally authored and co-sponsored the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, underscoring the importance of addressing any fire-related incidents nationwide. Under the said law, the ten-year BFP modernization program includes recruiting more firefighters, acquiring new fire equipment, and developing specialized training, among others. Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, then urged the beneficiaries to prioritize their health and encouraged them to visit the Malasakit Center at the Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital, or any of such centers at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center, Cebu City Medical Center, and St. Anthony Mother and Child Hospital in Cebu City. Other Malasakit Centers in the province are located at Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City, Cebu South Medical Center in Talisay City, and Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City. After witnessing the struggles of financially incapacitated Filipinos in securing medical assistance, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 which opened its first center in Cebu City. It was later institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Go. Meanwhile, to ensure that basic healthcare services are more accessible, especially to those residing in far-flung communities, Go also supported the construction of hundreds of Super Health Centers nationwide. In Cebu, Super Health Centers were funded in the cities of Bogo, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandaue; and in the towns of Borbon, Cordova, Moalboal, Samboan, and San Francisco in 2022. This year, more Super Health Centers were funded in the cities of Carcar, Cebu, Talisay, and Toledo; and in the towns of Carmen, Consolacion, Liloan, Medellin, and San Nicolas. An additional Super Health Center will also be established in Danao City. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go likewise supported the construction of multipurpose buildings in Barili, Cordova, Ginatilan, Pilar, Tabogon and Talisay City; improvement of existing roads in Alcantara, Alcoy, Alegria, Asturias, Balamban, Boljoon, Borbon, Carmen, Madrilejos, Malabuyoc, Minglanilla, Moalboal, Pinamungajan, Sibonga, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Carcar City and Naga City; improvement of flood mitigation structures in Catmon and Tuburan; installation of street lights in Asturias, Compostela and Daanbantayan; and acquisition of ambulance units for Madridejos and Naga City. “Magtulungan po tayo, mga kababayan ko. Importante pong malampasan natin itong krisis na ating kinakaharap bilang nagkakaisang mamamayang Pilipino,” Go said. The post Bong Go aids indigents in Lapu-Lapu City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Lingap para sa Mahirap’ serves 76K hospital clients
DAVAO CITY — The local government here disclosed that its program “Lingap para sa Mahirap” has already assisted a total of 76,735 clients from 1 January to 16 May 2023. In a radio interview, Ytalia Karmili Bohol, the Lingap Para sa Mahirap Davao City main office senior social work associate, said that 59,559 individuals were assisted in Southern Philippines Medical Center and 17,176 clients in various private hospitals in the city. The Lingap program provides medical, laboratory, funeral, and hospital bill assistance to the indigent Davao residents and Bohol said that funeral and medical assistance are the most sought-after services among their clients. “Since last year, we have seen a lot of people asking for help, and we are still midway into the year, there are already too many of them,” said Bohol. Meanwhile, Gladys Blanco, a staff from the Lingap Paquibato District satellite office, encouraged the residents under their jurisdiction to reach out to their office for assistance instead of going directly to the Lingap main office. Prexx Trozo “It would save them time, money, and effort since the main Lingap office is located far from their area,” said Blanco. With the assistance of Lingap Paquibato staff, the residents can avoid unnecessary trips by availing of the medicines from partner pharmacies in Barangay Calinan or downtown area. The post ‘Lingap para sa Mahirap’ serves 76K hospital clients appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SM group to build new school buildings in Laguna, Batangas
Continuing its commitment to helping elevate the country's education system, SM Foundation, Inc., in partnership with SM Prime Holdings, Inc. and the Department of Education, have recently collaborated to construct two new school buildings in Laguna and Batangas. Upon the completion of the joint initiative, two two-story four-classroom school buildings will be donated to the Laguna Resettlement Community School in San Pedro City, Laguna and the San Antonio Elementary School in Sto. Tomas City, Batangas. Each of the school buildings is set to be equipped with learning materials, armchairs, handwashing facilities, emergency equipment and PWD-friendly facilities to ensure that students, especially from low-income communities, gain access to modern, safe and conducive learning facilities. Formalizing the partnership, representatives from the SMFI, DepEd and the local government units of said provinces attended the memorandum of agreement signing last 28 April 2023 at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines in Malvar, Batangas. SM Foundation, through its School Building Program, is an active partner of DepEd in various educational programs. This social good initiative aims to promote quality public education by building classrooms nationwide. To date, it has turned over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities. The post SM group to build new school buildings in Laguna, Batangas appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BiFin swimming needs exposure, support
Philippine Sports Hall-of-Famer and Batangas 1st District Rep.Eric Buhain said the showing of the National BiFin Swimming Team in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia proved it deserves support from both the private and public sector to further boosts its development program particularly in the grassroots level......»»
Rex Gatchalian confirmed as DSWD chief
The Commission on Appointments on Tuesday confirmed the ad interim appointment of former Valenzuela Representative Rex Gatchalian as secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Gatchalian earlier vowed before the CA members to put equal thrusts and premium into the development programs of the DSWD. “Yes social welfare is very important, but equally as important will be the development programs of the department because these development programs are the ones that will break the chain of the cycle of poverty,” he said. Gatchalian said he will be working on strengthening the DSWD flagship programs including the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino. Program or 4Ps, sustainable livelihood program, community-driven of Kalahi CIDS, human capital investments, and digitalization of the social welfare program so that people can have easy access to basic social services. He also promised to boost social protection programs nationwide, as well as expand efforts to attract more social workers by establishing a DSWD academy. “We want to make that every single social welfare that we do launch should be targeted measurable, conditional and as clear exit mechanism so that we don’t saddle the country with one dole out program over another,” he said. Gatchalian also targets to lean into the existing capacities of the private sector in partnership with the government to make sure the country will become disaster prepared. He added the DSWD will push forward its residence and care facilities as well as capacitate further the social workers nationwide. Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda vouched for Gatchalian’s ability to lead the DSWD as being a disciplinarian and forceful. “He knows the grassroots being a local chief executive. He is able to communicate this very clearly and he really seems to have a very logical mind if I am not mistaken. He’s focused on his job, at the same time he has compassion on the people being a mayor,” Legarda said. CA vice-chair Rep. Ramon Guico Jr. of Pangasinan welcomed Gatchalian’s confirmation describing him as a true public servant in the government. While Rep. Manuel Sagarbarria of 2nd District Negros Oriental said he has known Gatchalian to be hard working, intelligent dedicated public servant. “His first-hand experience into the needs of his constituents back then when he was a local chief executive and his background working in the legislative branch are the very qualities that make him a perfect fit for the post,” Sagarbarria said. Other CA members also voted on the confirmation of Gatchalian including Cavite Rep. Lani Revilla; Surigao del Sur Rep. Johny Pimentel; and CA Assistant minority floor leader Rep. Jose Gay Padiernos. Senators Cynthia Villar, Imee Marcos, JV Ejercito, Grace Poe, and Risa Hontiveros also supported Gatchalian. Gatchalian was installed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. after the CA did not confirm former Erwin Tulfo’s appointment over citizenship and libel issues. The post Rex Gatchalian confirmed as DSWD chief appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gatchalian gets clear path to CA confirmation
A Commission on Appointments panel on Tuesday, 16 May, endorsed the confirmation of Valenzuela Rep. Rex Gatchalian's appointment as secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. After thorough deliberation, the Bicameral CA Committee on labor, employment, social welfare, and migrant workers approved the motion of Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte to bring Gatchalian’s appointment to the CA plenary. Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda vouched for Gatchalian’s ability to head the DSWD being a disciplinarian and powerful leader. “He knows the grassroots being a local chief executive. He is able to communicate this very clearly and he really seems to have a very logical mind if I am not mistaken. He’s focused on his job, at the same time he has compassion on the people being a mayor,” Legarda said. CA vice chair Rep. Ramon Guico Jr. of Pangasinan praised Gatchalian’s confirmation describing him as a true public servant in the government. While Rep. Manuel Sagarbarria of 2nd District Negros Oriental said he has known Gatchalian to be hard working, intelligent dedicated public servant. “His first-hand experience into the needs of his constituents back then when he was a local chief executive and his background working in the legislative branch are the very qualities that make him a perfect fit for the post,” Sagarbarria said. Other CA members also voted on the confirmation of Gatchalian including Cavite Rep. Lani Revilla; Surigao del Sur Rep. Johny Pimentel; and CA Assistant minority floor leader Rep. Jose Gay Padiernos. Senators Cynthia Villar, Imee Marcos, JV Ejercito, Grace Poe, Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go and Risa Hontiveros also supported Gatchalian. Meanwhile, Gatchalian vowed to put a premium on the development programs of the DSWD. “Yes social welfare is very important, but equally as important will be the development programs of the department because these development programs are the ones to break the chain of the cycle of poverty,” he said. Gatchalian said he will be working on strengthening the DSWD flagship programs including the 4Ps, sustainable livelihood program, community-driven of Kalahi CIDS, human capital investments, digitalization social welfare program, and boosting social protection programs nationwide, as well as expanding efforts to attract more social workers by establishing a DSWD academy. “We want to make that every single social welfare that we do launch should be targeted measurable, conditional and as clear exit mechanism so that we don’t saddle the country with one dole out program over another,” he said. Gatchalian also vowed to tap into the existing capacities of the private sector in partnership with the government to make sure the country will become disaster prepared. The post Gatchalian gets clear path to CA confirmation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go, go, go for the gold!
We have nothing but admiration and best wishes for our national athletes who are currently competing at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games. Together with my colleagues, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senator Francis Tolentino, Philippine Sports Commission Chair Dickie Bachmann and Commissioner Matthew Gaston, among other officials, we took the time last weekend to personally cheer on our representatives in the regional biennial sports meet in Cambodia. There, we witnessed once again the never-say-die attitude and spirit of all our Filipino athletes. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports and a firm advocate of long-term and grassroots sports development in the country, I was particularly filled with pride after seeing the dedication, discipline and undeniable talent of our athletes. That is why I remain committed to helping strengthen the development of sports in our communities. Sports keep our young people away from vices and criminality. As I always say, “Get into sports, stay away from drugs!” Last year, I sponsored and defended additional funding for the PSC during its 2023 budget deliberation, particularly for grassroots sports development and in support of athletes joining international competitions. What was supposedly just more or less P200 million proposed annual budget for PSC was increased by P1 billion through our efforts and with the support of my colleagues in the Senate. Particularly, the increase in the PSC’s 2023 budget is intended to support the Filipino athletes in international competitions, such as the Asian Games, SEA Games, Summer Olympics in Paris, ASEAN Para Games, Asian Indoor Martial Arts Games, World Combat Games, World Beach Games, and Asian Beach Games, among others. Portions of the funds were also allotted for the country’s hosting of the FIBA World Cup in 2023 as well as for grassroots sports programs, such as Batang Pinoy, the Philippine National Games, and those under the Sports Development Council. Moreover, funding was allocated for the development of sports infrastructure across the country, as well as for advanced research and development in sports sciences and sports technology. The provision of other financial assistance to Filipino athletes was also funded. I have also authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports in 2020 to help ensure that our promising young athletes can further hone their talents while getting quality education. More recently, I filed Senate Bill 423, or the proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022, with the aim of institutionalizing and providing a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development. Meanwhile, together with my team, I was in Batangas province on 8 May where I personally led a series of relief operations for 1,109 indigents in Batangas City and 1,000 more in San Pascual town. As an adopted son of CALABARZON and a fellow Batangueño, I am thankful for being able to serve them to the best of my capacity as a public servant. I likewise visited the newly renovated San Pascual Super Health Center and met with some health workers to listen to their concerns and discuss ways to improve the delivery of healthcare services in their communities. The Super Health Center is an improved version of a polyclinic, which seeks to provide our fellow Filipinos, especially those in remote areas, easier access to basic health services. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers and the Department of Health, 307 SHCs were funded in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. Last Tuesday, we conducted a public hearing by the Senate Committee on Health on mental health. As the committee’s chair, I reiterated that the state of our National Center for Mental Health is in need of utmost attention and improvement to preserve the basic right of all Filipinos to healthcare. Meanwhile, on 10 May, I led a relief effort for 672 fire victims from Pritil Public Market in Tondo, Manila. This was followed by a visit to Nueva Ecija last 11 May, where I personally inspected the Talavera bridge — a project I had earlier supported as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance. I then conducted a monitoring visit to the Malasakit Center at the Talavera General Hospital to personally assess its operations and ensure that indigent patients are given the assistance they need. In line with this, we extended relief to 79 patients and 406 front liners in the hospital while the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial aid to the qualified patients. On the same day, my team and I visited the town of Llanera to inspect its Super Health Center and attend the inauguration of the public wet market there, both of which I had advocated and supported. We then assisted 1,000 indigents in the town. As an adopted son of Nueva Ecija, I continue to support the province and help its people as much as I can. Separately, my outreach teams mounted several relief operations last week that benefitted 100 indigents in Veruela, 100 in Sta. Josefa, 40 in Esperanza, and 40 in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur; 227 in Botolan and 163 in Iba, Zambales; 520 Kibawe, Dangcagan, Cabanglasan and Malitbog, Bukidnon; 141 in General Natividad, Nueva Ecija; 2,199 in Gingoog City, 50 in Naawan, and 50 in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental; 332 in Minalin, Pampanga; 129 in Hamtic, Antique; 233 in Casiguran, and 166 in Dilasag, Aurora; and 44 in Sta. Maria and 45 in Malolos City, Bulacan. Fire victims, including 205 in Taytay, Rizal; 58 in Caloocan City; and 12 families in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan were likewise supported through our efforts. In the same way that our athletes remain unyielding in the face of tough competition, I hope that we can all remain resilient in the face of challenges. Through our support for one another and our unbeatable pusong Pilipino, let us all go for the gold and continue bringing honor to our country and our people. The post Go, go, go for the gold! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»