US-based Pinay named MVP, national champion in NAIA women s hoops
Playing for the Westmont College Warriors, Berberabe led her team to a four-game sweep of the NAIA tournament to claim the program's ninth NAIA national championship last week......»»
DavNor’s IP women charity beneficiaries
BAE Rosita Q. Zafra, President of the IP Women Federation in Davao del Norte and the Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos), expressed gratitude as Indigenous People (IP) women were named beneficiaries of a charity event held on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at the Philippine Women’s College of Davao (PWC)......»»
Lovi Poe’s own production outfit to champion Filipino stories abroad
Lovi Poe is the latest Philippine born, bred or based actor to land a Hollywood project, joining the likes of Dolly de Leon, Liza Soberano, Inigo Pascual, and Ruby Ruiz......»»
IOC denies Manny Pacquiao exemption to box at Olympics
(Photo credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports) The International Olympic Committee said former world champion boxer Manny Pacquiao cannot compete for the Philippines at this year's Olympic Games in Paris. Pacquiao, 45, retired in 2021 but sought to box for his country at the Olympics. The IOC's age limit for boxers is 40. The Philippines asked for an exception based on the "universality" entry rule, in which a nat.....»»
IOC denies Manny Pacquiao exemption to box at Olympics
(Photo credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports) The International Olympic Committee said former world champion boxer Manny Pacquiao cannot compete for the Philippines at this year's Olympic Games in Paris. Pacquiao, 45, retired in 2021 but sought to box for his country at the Olympics. The IOC's age limit for boxers is 40. The Philippines asked for an exception based on the "universality" entry rule, in which a nat.....»»
Aboitiz Land gets Circle of Excellence Award for Diversity Company of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards
Aboitiz Land, the real estate arm of the Aboitiz group, is among those honored with the prestigious Circle of Excellence Award under the Diversity Company of the Year category at the Asia CEO Awards held at the Manila Marriott Hotel on 24 October 2023. This recognition highlights the company’s steadfast commitment to promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in every aspect of its culture. “Aboitiz Land’s dedication to diversity and inclusion extends far beyond our organization’s borders. We strive to create a positive influence not only within our team, but also among the vecinos we serve and the local communities surrounding our projects,” David Rafael, CEO and president of Aboitiz Land said. Fostering Inclusivity: A Closer Look at Aboitiz Land’s DE&I Program What sets Aboitiz Land’s DE&I program apart is its holistic approach, addressing each stage of the employee journey to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion. Here are some key features of Aboitiz Land’s DE&I program: The organization adopts flexible educational and geographical hiring requirements, prioritizing relevant professional experience over strict educational attainment. The consanguinity policy within the organization is relaxed, allowing relatives of employees to pursue careers within the company. A hybrid work setup is implemented, providing flexibility and saving time and resources for employees. Transparent communication is encouraged, fostering trust and openness within the organization. Employee feedback is collected regularly through channels like Amara, a virtual employee experience champion. Aboitiz Land promotes a multigenerational leadership approach and maintains a healthy gender balance with a 45:55 male-to-female employee ratio. They also ensure LGBTQIA+ representation across all levels of the company. The organization offers flexible benefits through the FlexBen program, allowing employees to customize their benefit packages based on individual needs. Expanded healthcare coverage includes provisions for child dependents, common-law and same-gender partners. Additionally, government benefits are extended to cover a wider range of family situations. Development opportunities are available to all team members, ensuring that individual growth is not limited to specific segments. Growth partnerships and curated learning solutions are provided to facilitate skill development. Aboitiz Land’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program has led to elevated levels of employee satisfaction and engagement. This, in turn, fosters a productive workforce that is driven to consistently enhance performance, ultimately delivering better products and services. The Asia CEO Awards honors business excellence in the Philippines and is the largest event of its kind in Southeast Asia. The post Aboitiz Land gets Circle of Excellence Award for Diversity Company of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Times Education picks Pacquiao as ambassador
STRENGTHENING their presence in Southeast Asia and appealing directly to prospective students in the Philippines, Education and Training provider Times Education Group Australia announced its partnership with Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao as their brand ambassador and investor, to collaborate on several education-related projects in both the Philippines and Australia. The plan is to expand Times Education – an Australia-based education and training provider – worldwide in 2024, with the goal of making it a premier institution for education. In addition to a variety of courses, including English, Hospitality, Accounting, Information Technology, Cookery, Travel and Tourism, Real Estate, Digital Marketing, Human Resource Management, Social Media Marketing, Business and Management, Leadership and Management, Marketing and Communication, Aged Care and Community Services, Early Childhood Education and Care, and Higher Education Diploma and Graduate Diploma, Times Education will grow their curriculum to include Sport Coaching and Exercise Management with the creation a new Sports Institute. Additional expansion into residential aged care and employment recruitment services is slated. In a statement welcoming the eight-division world champion to the team, Times Education founder and CEO Charles Shiao explained, through their partnership with Manny Pacquiao and planned collaborations with Philippines colleges, lifelong scholarships will be provided to aspiring students. "Manny is a proven winner in life, and we couldn't be more enthusiastic to have him onboard as an investor and brand ambassador. His ring exploits continue to inspire the youth to keep persevering in life, and his passion for education, as proven by his efforts to pursue his studies, is perfectly in line with our ideals," Shiao said. Pacquiao — himself a holder of a master's degree in management Major in Public Education — emphasized the importance of education, even as he encouraged prospective investors to join him in helping Times Education in its expansion efforts. “Education is not merely a process of acquiring knowledge; it is a catalyst for personal growth, social progress, and economic development. It empowers individuals, enhances critical thinking, and equips us to face the challenges of an ever-evolving world,” the former eight-division world champion said. “My journey from humble beginnings to global stardom is a testament to the transformative power of education. Despite facing numerous challenges, my unwavering determination and commitment to self-improvement led me to become not only a sporting icon but also a respected leader and advocate for education. My story inspires countless individuals around the world, proving that education is the great equalizer that transcends social and economic barriers,” he added. One of Australia’s largest institutions offering vocational education and training, and higher learning among others, Times Education has delivered training to over 35,000 students across seven colleges and 12 campuses in key Australian cities. The company has set its sights on a global expansion, and Pacquiao is keen on helping them achieve the goal. “The partnership between Times Education Group Australia and Manny Pacquiao symbolizes the transformative power of education,” Pacquiao said. The post Times Education picks Pacquiao as ambassador appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Unite for peace
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a reminder of how autocracies care little about causing death and destruction. The war is a gross violation of human rights and the principle of peaceful settlement of international disputes as codified in the United Nations Charter, which has helped maintain the rules-based international order and kept the world in relative peace since the end of the Cold War. [caption id="attachment_178304" align="aligncenter" width="1101"] Dr. Wu, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Republic of China (Taiwan) | illustration by Glen Tolo for the Daily Tribune[/caption] The war’s humanitarian and economic fallout has also shown that, in a globalized world, crises cannot be contained within national borders. It is, therefore, imperative to deter similar threats to global security from happening elsewhere. Taiwan—a democracy that is home to over 23 million people and that I proudly represent—continues to confront enormous challenges posed by China. Since the mid-20th century, the People’s Republic of China has vowed to take control of Taiwan and refused to renounce the use of force, despite never having ruled Taiwan. For decades, the people of Taiwan have remained calm in safeguarding the status quo of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. However, as China’s economic and military might has grown stronger, it becomes increasingly aggressive in flexing its military muscle to intimidate Taiwan, thereby threatening our democratic way of life. This includes sending warplanes and ships across the median line of the Taiwan Strait and encroaching into our air defense identification zones. It has also intensified gray-zone tactics, such as disinformation and economic coercion, in an attempt to wear down our will to fight. The PRC’s expansionism does not stop at Taiwan. China’s use of gray-zone activities in the East and South China Seas are designed to expand its power and substantiate its hawkish territorial claims. In addition to signing a security agreement with Solomon Islands in the South Pacific, the PRC has been securing ports for future military use in the Indian Ocean. All of these maneuvers are causing grave concerns that peace is becoming more difficult to maintain. Ensuring peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is in everyone’s best interest. Half of the world’s commercial container traffic passes through the Taiwan Strait each day. Taiwan produces the majority of the world’s semiconductors and plays a key role in global supply chains. Any conflict in the area would have disastrous consequences for the global economy. In recent years, bilateral and multilateral forums have repeatedly emphasized that the peace and stability over the Taiwan Strait is indispensable to global security. While we can all agree that the war must be avoided, how to best do so requires inclusion, dialogue and, most of all, unity. The United Nations remains the best platform for global discourse. UN officials speak often of joint solutions, solidarity, and inclusion in tackling the pressing issues of our time. Taiwan is more than willing and able to take part in these efforts. However, Taiwan continues to be excluded from the UN due to China’s distortion of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758. This resolution neither states that Taiwan is a part of the PRC nor gives the PRC the right to represent the people of Taiwan in the UN and its specialized agencies. In fact, the resolution only determines who represents the member-state China, a fact that the international community and China itself recognized following the relevant vote in 1971. The subsequent misrepresentation of Resolution 2758 contradicts the basic principles upheld by the UN Charter and must be rectified. The 78th session of the UN General Assembly, which will center on the theme “rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity,” is timely in light of a number of broad global challenges. For example, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals were designed as a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity. Yet the most recent SDG progress report showed that just 12 percent of SDG targets were on track, while progress on 50 percent has remained insufficient. And on more than 30 percent, we have stalled or even regressed. While there are no easy answers, the first step is dialogue. As a truly global institution, the UN can serve as a champion of progress. We call on the UN to uphold its principle of leaving no one behind by allowing Taiwan to participate in the UN system, rather than excluding it from discussions on issues requiring global cooperation. A good first step would be to allow Taiwanese individuals and journalists to attend or cover relevant meetings, as well as ensure Taiwan’s meaningful participation in meetings and mechanisms regarding the SDGs. Ukraine’s incredible bravery and resilience have inspired countries around the globe. The war there has forged a new sense of togetherness in the world. Unity is crucial to pushing back against Russia’s aggression and to preserving universal values, such as human rights and global peace, more broadly. It is vital to make China and other authoritarian governments aware that they will be held accountable and to urge them to settle differences through peaceful means. Allowing Taiwan to meaningfully participate in the UN system would benefit the world’s efforts to address pressing global issues. This would also demonstrate the UN’s determination to unite for global peace at a critical juncture when the future of the world is at stake. We are stronger together. Now is the time to act on this fundamental principle by including Taiwan. The post Unite for peace appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Unite for Peace in the World and Taiwan’s Inclusion in the UN
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a reminder of how autocracies care little about causing death and destruction. The war is a gross violation of human rights and the principle of peaceful settlement of international disputes as codified in the United Nations Charter, which has helped maintain the rules-based international order and kept the world in relative peace since the end of the Cold War. The war’s humanitarian and economic fallout has also shown that in a globalized world crises cannot be contained within national borders. It is therefore imperative to deter similar threats to global security from happening elsewhere. Taiwan—a democracy that is home to over 23 million people and that I proudly represent—continues to confront enormous challenges posed by China. Since the mid-20th century, the People’s Republic of China has vowed to take control of Taiwan and refused to renounce the use of force, despite never having ruled Taiwan. For decades, the people of Taiwan have remained calm in safeguarding the status quo of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. However, as China’s economic and military might has grown stronger, it has become increasingly aggressive in flexing its military muscle to intimidate Taiwan, thereby threatening our democratic way of life. This includes sending warplanes and ships across the median line of the Taiwan Strait and encroaching into our air defense identification zones. It has also intensified gray-zone tactics, such as disinformation and economic coercion, in an attempt to wear down our will to fight. The PRC’s expansionism does not stop at Taiwan. China’s use of gray-zone activities in the East and South China Seas are designed to expand its power and substantiate its hawkish territorial claims. In addition to signing a security agreement with Solomon Islands in the South Pacific, the PRC has been securing ports for future military use in the Indian Ocean. All of these maneuvers are causing grave concerns that peace is becoming more difficult to maintain. Ensuring peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is in everyone’s best interest. Half of the world’s commercial container traffic passes through the Taiwan Strait each day. Taiwan produces the majority of the world’s semiconductors and plays a key role in global supply chains. Any conflict in the area would have disastrous consequences for the global economy. In recent years, bilateral and multilateral forums have repeatedly emphasized that peace and stability over the Taiwan Strait are indispensable to global security. While we can all agree that the war must be avoided, how to best do so requires inclusion, dialogue, and, most of all, unity. The United Nations remains the best platform for global discourse. UN officials speak often of joint solutions, solidarity, and inclusion in tackling the pressing issues of our time. Taiwan is more than willing and able to take part in these efforts. However, Taiwan continues to be excluded from the UN due to China’s distortion of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758. This resolution neither states that Taiwan is a part of the PRC nor gives the PRC the right to represent the people of Taiwan in the UN and its specialized agencies. In fact, the resolution only determines who represents the member state China, a fact that the international community and China itself recognized following the relevant vote in 1971. The subsequent misrepresentation of Resolution 2758 contradicts the basic principles upheld by the UN Charter and must be rectified. The 78th session of the UN General Assembly, which will center on the theme “rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity,” is timely in light of a number of broad global challenges. For example, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals were designed as a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity. Yet the most recent SDG progress report showed that just 12 percent of SDG targets were on track, while progress on 50 percent has remained insufficient. And on more than 30 percent, we have stalled or even regressed. While there are no easy answers, the first step is dialogue. As a truly global institution, the UN can serve as a champion of progress. We call on the UN to uphold its principle of leaving no one behind by allowing Taiwan to participate in the UN system, rather than excluding it from discussions on issues requiring global cooperation. A good first step would be to allow Taiwanese individuals and journalists to attend or cover relevant meetings, as well as ensure Taiwan’s meaningful participation in meetings and mechanisms regarding the SDGs. Ukraine’s incredible bravery and resilience have inspired countries around the globe. The war there has forged a new sense of togetherness in the world. Unity is crucial to pushing back against Russia’s aggression and to preserving universal values, such as human rights and global peace, more broadly. It is vital to make China and other authoritarian governments aware that they will be held accountable and to urge them to settle differences through peaceful means. Allowing Taiwan to meaningfully participate in the UN system would benefit the world’s efforts to address pressing global issues. This would also demonstrate the UN’s determination to unite for global peace at a critical juncture when the future of the world is at stake. We are stronger together. Now is the time to act on this fundamental principle by including Taiwan. The post Unite for Peace in the World and Taiwan’s Inclusion in the UN appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Davao’s Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan 2023 the grandest in years
The most awaited event in the 38th Kadayawan Festival -- Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan or the street dancing competition—once again amazed Dabawenyos and visitors as the contingents paraded in colorful and festive indigenous-inspired costumes and performed epic folk narratives along the major streets in the city’s downtown. The 19 contingents (six for the Davao school-based category and 13 for the open category) flooded the streets with their energetic street dances, dressed in the vibrant traditional garb of the indigenous peoples of Mindanao. Various groups from outside Davao City also joined the Indak-Indak, all aiming to bag the coveted P1—million prize for the grand winner in both categories. [caption id="attachment_173929" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Tribung Lacson Performing Arts and Ensemble.[/caption] For the Davao school-based category, Davao City National High School bagged first place, followed by Catalunan Pequeño National High School (2nd), Lapu-Lapu Elementary School (3rd), Lacson Integrated School (4th) and Mabini National High School (5th). [caption id="attachment_173927" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Lapu-Lapu Elementary School performer.[/caption] For the open category, the Sindac Anib Performing Ensemble from Bislig, Surigao del Sur, emerged as this year’s champion — their third time winning the Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan. [caption id="attachment_173926" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Sindac Anib Performing Arts Guild, grand prize winner of P1 million (Open Category), from Bislig, Surigao del Sur.[/caption] Matiao National High School Special Program in the Arts’ Tribu Maganahay from Mati City, Davao Oriental, was in second place, followed by the Landan National High School Performing Arts Group from Polomolok South Cotabato (3rd), Banayan Performing Arts from Banaybanay town in Davao Oriental (4th) and Agusan del Sur Artists’ Guild from Agusan del Norte (5th). Harold Quibete, the organizer of this year’s Indak-Indak, said the 2023 competition was the grandest and most exciting in recent years. With some P5.6 million in prizes, the competition saw previous street dancing champions returning to try to reclaim the crown against contingents led by acclaimed choreographers from all over Mindanao. The two showdown areas were at the Roxas Avenue-Claveria and Legaspi- Bonifacio junctions, while the final showdown was at the San Pedro Square. The post Davao’s Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan 2023 the grandest in years appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hollywood’s video game craze takes meta turn with ‘Gran Turismo’
Ever since the huge successes of "The Super Mario Bros Movie," "Uncharted" and "The Last Of Us," films and TV shows adapted from video games have been all the rage in Hollywood. But when Neill Blomkamp received a call from Sony asking if he wanted to direct a movie based around its super-serious, hyper-realistic racing game series "Gran Turismo," he was initially confused. "I almost wanted to read the screenplay just to understand what they were talking about, because it just made no sense to me," he told AFP. "Obviously, it's just a racing simulator." Indeed, the "Gran Turismo" games have no characters like Italian plumbers or fungus-crazed zombies who would lend themselves to a straightforward Hollywood film adaptation. As a result, the movie's script -- penned by the writer of "King Richard" and "Creed III" -- took an entirely different and very meta approach. It is largely based instead on a marketing stunt, back in 2008, when Sony and Nissan launched a competition in which top "Gran Turismo" video gamers could test their skills on actual racetracks. The GT Academy took PlayStation gamers out from their bedrooms, and put them behind real racecar wheels. Each year's champion was then given a chance to race against professional drivers on world-famous tracks including Silverstone and Le Mans. One of those, Jann Mardenborough -- a working-class teen from Darlington, England, who was one of the first GT Academy gamers to successfully compete in real racing -- is the subject of the movie. "I was so struck by this approach of it being a biography, but also being a video game film," said Blomkamp, who previously directed "District 9" and "Elysium." "And that the video game would be an element inside that real world -- the way that 'Gran Turismo' exists in our world." Emotional heft Reviews for the movie have been mixed, with the Guardian dubbing it an "ode to product placement." But others praised the film's surprising emotional heft -- not least its treatment of a fatal accident involving Mardenborough. At Germany's famous Nurburgring circuit in 2015, Mardenborough's car flipped vertically into the air and crashed through a fence, killing one spectator and injuring several more. Mardenborough was cleared of any blame for the freak accident -- although the movie suggests that racing purists who disliked his gamer background continued to whisper otherwise. Particularly with the real Mardenborough acting as stunt double for his own character in the film, the tragic incident had to be tackled with care. "You can't tell his story without having that in it. It's such an integral part of his journey," said Blomkamp. But the crash is also "super sensitive for Jann," admitted Blomkamp. While the real Mardenborough performed other driving stunts throughout the movie, the decision was taken to recreate the fatal crash with "effectively 100 percent digital" technology. In part that was because the crash itself was so infamous and unusual, with the car going vertically airborne as it soared over a steeply undulating hill. "We tried to match what the car did, basically pixel perfect, from the video footage that we could find," said Blomkamp. Of course, using computer-generated visual effects (VFX) for that particular scene meant "there was no requirement for stunts at all." Strikes and hype Another obstacle for the movie has been Hollywood's ongoing strikes. The walkout, over actors' and writers' pay and other conditions, bars its stars such as Orlando Bloom, David Harbour and Archie Madekwe from promoting the film at the usual swanky premieres and junkets. Sony took the unusual decision to delay the film's release in theaters, from this Friday to August 25, and offered early sneak previews to fans until then, in the hope of building word-of-mouth hype. "The stars can't promote the movie, but the audience can," said a Sony spokesperson. The post Hollywood’s video game craze takes meta turn with ‘Gran Turismo’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go lauds gov’t digitalization initiatives highlighted in PBBM’s 2nd SONA
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go commended President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos' forward-thinking leadership during the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, 24 July, at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City. “I am hopeful na yung kanyang mga binitawang salita, mga pangako, ay maisakatuparan… And ‘yung sinabi po ng ating mahal na Pangulo na kukupkupin ‘yung mga mahihirap, importante po sa atin na walang magutom. Mabigyan ng trabaho po, ‘yun po ang gusto kong marinig kanina at masaya po akong narinig na tulungan po ‘yung mga mahihirap nating kababayan,” Go said in an interview after the SONA. Among other priorities highlighted in the SONA, Marcos particularly outlined a shared vision for a digitally transformed Philippines, emphasizing the pivotal role digitalization plays in supporting data-driven and science-based planning and decision-making in government. The president said embracing digital technologies is not only a means to enhance the country’s ease of doing business but it is also a powerful tool in combating graft and corruption in various forms. “Digitalization is the call of today; not the call of the future—but of the present. It is here. It is needed, and it is needed today. Government must fully embrace digitalization to provide better service to the people, through its vital frontline services and its back-end functions,” Marcos said. “Digitalization will support the government’s data-driven and science-based planning and decision-making. It is the greatest, most powerful tool, not just to improve the ease of doing business, but also against many forms of graft and corruption,” he added. Go expressed his support to the President’s vision and said that the transition to digitalization is set to bring about numerous benefits, not only in curbing corruption and ensuring transparency, but in bringing government services closer to the people. In an effort to usher in a new era of modernization and efficiency in governance, Go continues to champion his filed Senate Bill No. 194, otherwise known as the E-Governance Bill. The E-Governance Bill seeks to harness the full potential of digital advancements to streamline bureaucratic processes, enhance transparency, and improve the overall quality of public services. Go said that the measure, if enacted, can make government more accessible to those in need. By digitizing government processes and transactions, Go’s proposed bill introduces an added layer of security and transparency, minimizing opportunities for corrupt practices. Furthermore, the lawmaker added that digital records and paperless transactions can significantly reduce the risk of tampering or unauthorized alterations. “Bureaucratic inefficiency has been one of the most persistent problems in government service for the longest time. People spend so much money, time, and energy just to get a simple document, submit an application for a permit, or simply access public information. Napakahaba po ng proseso, maubos ang oras mo, hindi lang isang oras, isang linggo, o isang buwan,” Go said. “Government should always be responsive to the demands of changing times. It is for this reason that I filed the proposed E-Governance Act. Una ko na po itong nai-file noong panahon pa ng pandemya during the 18th Congress. Marami tayong natutunan noon kung paano mag-adapt sa makabagong panahon,” he explained. In his SONA, the president also called upon all government offices to expedite the digitalization of their vital services. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) responded to this call by launching the DMW Mobile App, which aims to provide Overseas Filipino Workers easy access to the department’s services. It can be recalled that Go was instrumental in the enactment of Republic Act No. 11641, which created the DMW. The Senate version of the Act, Senate Bill No. 2234, was authored and co-sponsored by Go. DMW serves as the lead agency for implementing policies, plans and programs that will ensure the protection, promotion of interests, timely resolution of problems, and effective reintegration of OFWs. Go expressed optimism that the digitalization initiatives can help bridge the gap and ensure more efficient and effective public service delivery. “By embracing the transformative power of technology and fostering a culture of innovation, the nation is set to embark on a progressive path that will shape a brighter future for all Filipinos,” said Go. Meanwhile, the president proudly announced the successful launch of the eGov PH app, a centralized mobile application that integrates all key government services for the convenience of the public. The post Bong Go lauds gov’t digitalization initiatives highlighted in PBBM’s 2nd SONA appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Broken vows
On 13 July 2016, or a day after the Permanent Court of Arbitration released its decision favoring the Philippines on the West Philippine Sea territorial dispute, China came out with a comprehensive argument and counter-offer to the Philippines on settling the dispute. Called the “White Paper,” it was directed at former President Rodrigo Duterte who had indicated a policy of engaging China in dialogue, which was a departure from the foreign policy of his predecessor, the late Benigno Aquino III, who rejected negotiations and instead brought the conflict to the international tribunal. Now the incumbent, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., seeks to maintain a close engagement with China but without setting aside the arbitral award. During Duterte’s term, China made several pledges to support a process that would allow for the resolution of disputes among claimant nations based on the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties or DoC, signed by China and the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN in Phnom Penh in 2002. Thus, China committed to crafting a binding Code of Conduct or CoC with the ASEAN members that would contain the rules that would prevent conflicts from erupting over the disputed waters. In the White Paper, China indicated that “no matter what mechanism or means is chosen for settling disputes between any countries, the consent of states concerned should be the basis of that choice, and the will of sovereign states should not be violated.” China firmly indicated in the document that it did not accept any means of “dispute settlement imposed on it, nor does it accept any recourse to third-party settlement.” On 25 August 2006, China deposited — pursuant to Article 298 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea — with the UN Secretary-General a declaration stating that “the Government of the People’s Republic of China does not accept any of the procedures provided for in Section 2 of Part XV of the Convention concerning all the categories of disputes referred to in paragraph 1 (a), (b) and (c) of Article 298 of the Convention.” China, however, committed to work actively to promote the establishment of bilateral maritime consultation mechanisms and “explore joint development in areas such as fishery, oil and gas, and champion the active exploration by relevant countries in establishing a cooperation mechanism.” It highlighted its dedication to working with ASEAN “to fully and effectively implement the DoC and actively promote practical maritime cooperation.” Another commitment was its support in pushing forward “consultations on a Code of Conduct under the framework of full and effective implementation of the DoC, to achieve an early conclusion based on consensus.” None of the pledges have been delivered six years after, to the disappointment of the Philippines and other nations who looked up to China to exercise leadership in resolving the recurring regional friction. The involvement of a third party, thus, becomes a necessity since the maritime conflict appears nowhere near a settlement. Had China followed its commitment with actions, the CoC would be in effect and this should not have necessitated the involvement of an outside interest. Instead, with its apparent lack of interest or even aversion to binding rules, China has stalled the completion of the CoC. Without the CoC, the nations would have to inevitably turn to the arbitral ruling as a guidepost on the status of the conflicting claims. Thus, there is no other way for the conflict but to simmer as China considers the way of arbitration an assault on its sovereign interest. The post Broken vows appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
United States women’s star Rapinoe to retire at end of season
United States women's team star Megan Rapinoe announced on social media on Saturday that she would be retiring from football at the end of this season. "It is with a deep sense of peace & gratitude that I have decided this will be my final season playing this beautiful game," the 38-year-old posted. "I never could have imagined the ways in which soccer would shape and change my life forever," she added. The two-time World Cup winner, well known for her activism, is part of the USA squad for the upcoming women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Rapinoe plays in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) for Seattle based OL Reign -- their season concludes in November. The winger currently has 199 caps over a span of 17 years playing for her country and also won an Olympic gold medal in London in 2012. She was awarded the Best FIFA Women's Player in 2019 but her fame came as much for her espousal of causes and her campaigning as for her skills on the field. Rapinoe publicly came out as gay in July 2012 and has been a high-profile campaigner on social issues including LGBTQ+ rights, racial inequality and gender and pay equality. She was a leading voice in the US women's team's successful fight for equal pay and conditions which resulted in a law suit and eventual new collective agreement being struck in 2021. Rapinoe made headlines in 2016 when she took a knee during the national anthem in solidarity with NFL player Colin Kaepernick. "I've been able to have such an incredible career, and this game has brought me all over the world and allowed me to meet so many amazing people," said Rapinoe. "I feel incredibly grateful to have played as long as I have, to be as successful as we've been, and to have been a part of a generation of players who undoubtedly left the game better than they found it." "To be able to play one last World Cup and one last NWSL season and go out on my own terms is incredibly special," she added. Last July she received the highest civilian honour in the United States when President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Rapinoe was the first footballer to receive the award and one of just six female athletes or coaches. "Beyond the World Cup title to Olympic medals, Megan is a champion for essential American truth that everyone is entitled to be treated with dignity and respect," Biden said at the award ceremony. "She helped lead the change for perhaps the most important victory for anyone on our soccer team or any soccer team: equal pay for women." US women's team coach Vlatko Andonovski said Rapinoe remained an important part of the team for the World Cup which starts on July 20. "Megan Rapinoe is one of the most important players in women's soccer history and a personality like no other," he said. "She has produced so many memorable moments for her team and the fans on the field that will be remembered for a very long time, but her impact on people as a human being may be even more important. "It's been a wonderful experience to coach her in the NWSL and for the national team and I'm looking forward to her being an important part of our team at the World Cup." The Californian has spent most of her career playing in domestic leagues but had a brief spell in Australia with W-League team Sydney FC in 2011 and two years later played for French club Lyon, reaching the final of the Champions League. At the 2019 World Cup in France, she scored in the 2-0 win over the Netherlands in the final and was named Player of the Match. She won the Golden Boot as top scorer and Golden Ball for best player in the tournament. sev/jc © Agence France-Presse The post United States women’s star Rapinoe to retire at end of season appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go aids indigent students in Laak, Davao de Oro
Recognizing the vital role education plays in the country's development, Senator Bong Go has committed himself to helping enhance the education system in the country through various proposed legislation. In a video message during his team’s relief activity for struggling students on Monday, 26 June, Go maintained that he advocates for the passage of Senate Bill No. 1864, also known as the Act on Suspending Student Loan Payments During Disasters and Emergencies, which seeks to offer assistance to students who have borrowed loans but face difficulties in repaying them as a result of calamities and other unforeseen crises. Meanwhile, SBN 1359, known as the Act Prohibiting the "No Permit, No Exam" Policy, which Senator Go co-authored and co-sponsored, was passed on its third and final reading in March. The bill aims to penalize the implementation of a policy that restricts students from taking exams or similar educational assessments based on unpaid tuition or other school fees. Go also continues to champion SBN 1360, which aims to broaden the scope of the tertiary education subsidy by making amendments to Republic Act No. 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. The proposed legislation strives to offer increased assistance to students who face challenges in financing their tuition and other school fees, including those who are currently not eligible for subsidies provided by the existing law. “Education serves as the foundation for progress and the key to unlocking a brighter future for our nation. It is through education that we can empower our youth, equip them with knowledge and skills, and shape them into responsible and productive citizens,” underscored Go. “Investing in education is an investment in our country's future. When we prioritize education, we invest in the development of human capital, fostering a highly skilled workforce that can drive economic growth and prosperity,” he stressed further. The relief activity was held at the municipal hall, where Go’s team provided relief items, such as shirts, vitamins, snacks, and masks to 700 disadvantaged students. His team also gave mobile phones, shoes, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. “Mayroon ding mga dala na bola ang aking opisina kasi ang advocacy ko po ay sports. Gusto ko po ipagpatuloy po ang kampanya ni (dating) pangulong Duterte na labanan ang kriminalidad at iligal na droga sa pamamaraan na engganyuhin po ang mga kabataan na maglaro na lang ng basketball o anumang larangan ng pampalakasan,” encouraged Go who chairs the Senate Committee on Sports. “Diba mas mabuti na yung busy yung kabataan sa basketball o volleyball o sa ibang palakasan kesa naman maligaw sila sa ibang landas? Engganyuhin po natin silang mag-basketball at mag-volleyball. Get into sports and stay away from drugs,” he urged. Meanwhile, Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, also reminded the youth to prioritize their health and even encouraged them to seek the services of the Malasakit Center located at Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital branches in Laak, Montevista, Maragusan, and Pantukan; and the Davao Regional Medical Center in nearby Tagum City. A brainchild of Go, the Malasakit Centers program provides one-stop shops where concerned agencies, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, are brought under one roof to ensure that medical assistance programs are more conveniently within the reach of particularly poor and indigent Filipinos. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. To date, 158 operational centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the DOH. Go, who is also Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported various infrastructure initiatives in Davao de Oro. He was instrumental in the construction of a multipurpose building in Compostela; the construction of the Monkayo, Compostela Valley - Veruela Road; and the improvement of the public market in Monkayo. Other major initiatives he supported include the construction of the Nabunturan – Maco and Nabunturan - Laak roads; the installation of street lights in Nabunturan; rehabilitation of the local roads and bridges in New Bataan; and the concreting of the local access road in Pantukan The post Bong Go aids indigent students in Laak, Davao de Oro appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
QC officially opens Green Awards, calls for entries
The Quezon City Government called last week on barangays, Sangguniang Kabataan, youth-based organizations and businesses to showcase their best practices on disaster resiliency and sustainability to be recognized in the first-ever Quezon City Green Awards. Launched in May, the Quezon City Green Awards recognizes and incentivizes groups and organizations in the city that implement outstanding and inclusive programs on disaster risk reduction and management and climate action. “Initiatives and solutions to the adverse effects of climate change and disasters should be people-centered and truly responsive to the challenges faced by and the circumstances of the communities. Their ideas will help the city develop better programs for every QCitizen, particularly for those who are most vulnerable and marginalized,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said. The awards have three categories: Green Award, Resiliency Award and Green and Resilient Champion. The Green Award recognizes institutions that have made significant contributions in addressing climate change and advancing sustainable practices, while the Resiliency Award honors initiatives that demonstrate resilience, preparedness and response in the face of natural- or human-made-induced disaster. The Green and Resilient Champion award, on the other hand, will be given to businesses and barangays that have initiated outstanding practices that deal with the impacts of climate change and disasters. To discuss the mechanics of the awards, the city conducted a Green Awards briefing among target participants on 3-10 June. Interested groups and organizations can register at the QC Green Awards microsite (greenawards.quezoncity.gov.ph). Entries must be submitted through the official Google form available on the same site, including all necessary means of verification and documents. The deadline for submission is 15 July 2023. Each entry will undergo intensive assessment and field validation by selected city departments. Finalists will also have to present their programs to the Green Awards pool of judges. A total of 16 exemplary organizations and institutions will be awarded in October. They will receive a trophy and a cash grant that they can use in their current and upcoming climate action and disaster risk reduction and management projects. Visit greenawards.quezoncity.gov.ph or contact the Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department at 8988-4242 locals 8348, 8349, 8359 or 8360. Or email inquire.greenawards@quezoncity.gov.ph. The post QC officially opens Green Awards, calls for entries appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Quezon City launches landmark initiative to acknowledge rights for LGBTQIA+ couples
Queer life partners or same-sex couples in the city will soon be able to legally decide for each other with regard to healthcare matters. This was after the Quezon City Government launched the Right to Care Card that will empower resident queer couples to make medical decisions for their partners. The Right to Care Card will be made operational through a Special Power of Attorney (SPA) and will recognize the decision of the cardholders to agree, refuse, or withdraw consent to any type of medical care for their partners including treatment, procedures, tests, and prescriptions. Mayor Joy Belmonte, a vocal ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and equality champion, expresses the importance of this initiative in recognizing the life-long commitment and right to care of LGBTQIA+ members to their partners. “There have been reports of LGBTQIA+ community members who were prohibited from making crucial decisions when their partners were admitted to intensive care units of hospitals,” Belmonte said. “We want all of our residents, regardless of sexual orientation, to be with their partners in critical moments, and we are taking this important step to assure the rainbow community that they are cared for, recognized, and valued in Quezon City,” Belmonte explained. Currently, hospitals and medical facilities nationwide only recognize decisions from legal spouses or next of kin, further excluding same-sex couples from making important medical decisions for their respective partners. The Quezon City Government will implement the Right to Care program initially at city government hospitals such as the Quezon City General Hospital, Novaliches District Hospital, and Rosario Maclang Bautista General Hospital. Soon after, the city government will conduct orientations and seal partnerships with public or private Quezon City-based hospitals. The card includes a QR code that will direct the user to an actual and notarized digital version of the SPA document. The provisions of the SPA will indicate the privileges authorized by the cardholders for their respective partners such as choosing a particular physician or health care provider, including admission or discharge from any hospital, nursing home, or residential care facility; receiving, processing, and/or disclose their partner’s personal information including medical records; allow or deny medical treatments, procedures, or any other medical concerns related to their partner’s medical condition; as well as take any other action pertaining to the authority granted by the Right to Care Card such as processing documents and waivers and pursuing dispute resolution processes. This initiative was conceived by the creative communications agency MullenLowe TREYNA. Abi Aquino, Chief Creative Officer of MullenLowe TREYNA hopes that this collaboration with the Quezon City Government can help push the conversation for equal rights for the local LGBTQIA+ community. “Our agency has always supported equality for all, which is why we hope this initiative will inspire more creatives to give back to the community and make a difference. We stand stronger when we can uphold one another’s rights,” Aquino said. Interested LGBTQIA+ couples can register with the Quezon City Gender and Developmentmnrvcmgbpoi8ii Office where they will be asked to fill up forms including the SPA contract, which they need to have notarized as well. Upon submission of duly notarized forms, the Quezon City Legal Team will validate the data provided. Once validated, the QC GAD Office shall distribute physical cards with unique QR codes to access the digital copy of their validated SPA contract. Registered individuals will also be required to attend seminars that will discuss in detail all the rights and benefits that come with the card, further empowering them with the information and legal aspects of the SPA. Belmonte hopes this movement will inspire other cities to pursue LGBTQIA+ rights so that more queer Filipino couples and life partners can enjoy the same benefits as those living in Quezon City. The Quezon City Government will also spearhead succeeding seminars and training for RTC card holders and recipients, as well as conduct promotional campaigns in barangays. The post Quezon City launches landmark initiative to acknowledge rights for LGBTQIA+ couples appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Dad movies’ to watch with the family
Planning to just stick to your couch and stream movies on Father’s Day? No problem. Here are my top seven picks of ‘dad movies’ to stream right now. Have your dad join you, or the entire family, for a Father’s Day marathon and bond with laughter and tears! ‘FIELD OF DREAMS’ (1989) Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner) is a dad to Karin. He’s also a famer suddenly swept into a controversy when he decides to build a baseball diamond on his land — just because a mysterious voice whispered it into his ear. This popular and absorbing fantasy-drama has already become a cult classic for its themes of chasing one’s dreams and, of course, family. Rent on iTunes ‘LIAR LIAR’ (1997) One of the best comedy fantasies in the ‘90s, Liar Liar is surely going to be a big hit to your home-viewing with your dad. Sure, you may have seen this already, but so what? Carrey plays an attorney who is not only dishonest, he often breaks his promises to his poor son, Max (Justin Cooper). When Max wishes his dad would stop lying for 24 hours, it’s a riot! Rent on iTunes [caption id="attachment_146055" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF universal pictures | JIM Carrey as Fletcher Reede in ‘Liar Liar.’[/caption] ‘MRS. DOUBTFIRE’ (1993) This is one of the late Robin Williams’ most memorable classics. Divorced dad Daniel (Williams) is extremely bothered that he has limited access to his kids. So he dresses as an elderly British woman and applies as a nanny to his ex-wife Miranda (Sally Field) just to be with his kids every day. Both hilarious and touching, it never fails to engage you no matter how many times you’ve seen it. Stream on Disney+ ‘CINDERELLA MAN’ (2005) Inspired by the life story of world heavyweight boxing champion James J. Braddock, Ron Howard’s weeper Cinderella Man is set during the Great Depression. Braddock (Russell Crowe), a washed-up actor, struggles as a manual laborer to feed his family. With his morals and integrity intact, he is a father whose love for his family knows no bounds and gives them wisdom in the midst of adversity. Unforgettable. Stream on Disney+ ‘KING RICHARD’ (2021) This is the fact-based movie that earned Will Smith his Oscar Best Actor award after slapping Chris Rock on national TV. Whether you hate Smith or not, you’re gonna be stunned by his superior performance as the super-inspiring father and coach to celebrated tennis players Venus and Serena Williams. Stream on HBO Go ‘THREE MEN AND A BABY’ (1987 Directed by Leonard Nimoy, and based on a 1985 French script, it follows three New York City roommates Peter (Tom Selleck), Michael (Steve Guttenberg) and Jack (Ted Danson). All men are successful and satisfied with being single. But when a baby is abandoned in front of their apartment, they became instant dads. Funny and heartfelt. Stream on Disney+ ‘DADS’ (2020) This AppleTV+ original documentary explores modern fatherhood. The great thing about this docu is that it features all types of dads. We get testimonies from ordinary dads around the world and even famous comedians. Sweet, positive, oftentimes funny — and, yes, prepare to wipe a tear or two. Stream on AppleTV+ The post ‘Dad movies’ to watch with the family appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Apolinario, IBO flyweight champ, to fight in Japan
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The reigning International Boxing Organization (IBO) world flyweight champion Dave “Dobermann” Apolinario will soon take his talent to the thriving Japanese boxing scene. This was after, Sanman Boxing Gym, the handler of Apolinario officially announced that the latter signed a co-promotional agreement with the Japan-based Ohashi Promotions. READ: Dave Apolinario plunges […] The post Apolinario, IBO flyweight champ, to fight in Japan appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
QC launches ‘Green Awards‘
In an effort to recognize initiatives on disaster resiliency and environment conservation as well as encourage more Quezon City citizens to take part in the city’s climate actions, the Quezon City government launched on 23 May its first “Green Awards.” Mayor Joy Belmonte said the QC Green Awards are meant to recognize and incentivize barangays, the Sangguniang Kabataan, youth-based organizations, and businesses that implement outstanding and inclusive programs on disaster risk reduction and climate action. “The collaboration and cooperation of the community and various stakeholders play a big role in disaster preparedness and addressing the adverse impact of the climate crisis. The city’s resiliency and climate action will not come into fruition without the support of every QCitizen,” she said. The award has three categories — Green Award, Resiliency Award and Green and Resilient Champion. The Green Award recognizes institutions that have made significant contributions to addressing climate change and advancing sustainable practices, while the Resiliency Award honors initiatives that demonstrate resilience, preparedness and response in the face of natural or man-made disasters. The Green and Resilient Champion award, on the other hand, will be given to businesses and barangays that have initiated outstanding practices dealing with the impacts of climate change and disasters. Interested participants need to register at the QC Green Awards microsite (greenawards.quezoncity.gov.ph) and submit all necessary requirements through its official email address, greenawards@quezoncity.gov.ph. Submission of entries is open from 1 June to 15 July 2023. Each entry will undergo intensive assessment and field validation by city departments led by the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department, City Administrator’s Office, QC Youth Development Office, Business Permits and Licensing Department, and Barangay and Community Relations Department. Finalists will have to present their programs to the Green Awards pool of judges. A total of 16 exemplary organizations and institutions will be awarded in October. They will receive a trophy and a cash grant that they can use for current and upcoming climate action and disaster risk reduction and management projects. Training sessions will also be conducted for target participants to familiarize them with the award’s mechanics and assessment process. “With the QC Green Awards, we hope to engage more QCitizens in our efforts toward our vision of establishing a liveable, green, sustainable, climate and disaster-resilient future for all,” the mayor added. QC is the lone Philippine City member of the C40 Cities, a global network of mayors taking urgent action to confront the climate crisis and create a future where everyone can thrive. The complete mechanics and information on the QC Green Awards can be accessed at greenawards.quezoncity.gov.ph. The post QC launches ‘Green Awards‘ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Jerusalem, Collazo make weight, ready for world title bout on Sunday
CEBU CITY, Philippines— The first title defense of reigning World Boxing Organization (WBO) world minimumweight champion, Melvin “Gringo” Jerusalem is officially set after he and his opponent, Oscar Collazo of Puerto Rico, made weight on Saturday, May 27, (Friday, Pacific time) at the Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio, California. The Cebu-based Jerusalem, the banner boxer […] The post Jerusalem, Collazo make weight, ready for world title bout on Sunday appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»