‘Balikatan 2025’ begins with other nations joining as observers
A missile is launched from a US high mobility artillery rocket system (HIMARS) in this screengrab from a video attributed to the US Marine Corps and uploaded on April 20, 2025 for the opening of the 2025 Balikatan Exercises between the Philippines and United States armed forces. (Courtesy: U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Brian Knowles via Exercise Balikatan) Nearly 20 countries will observe this year’s ‘Balikatan’ as the Philippines and long-time treaty ally United States officially opened the 40th iteration of the annual war games on Monday, April 21, to reinforce their defense partnership amid contemporary challenges. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner, Jr. led the opening ceremonies at Camp Aguinaldo. The series of military drills will run until May 9 in various areas [...]
Comelec: Over 2,500 election gun ban violators arrested as of April 19
Election gun ban. INQUIRER FILES MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has so far arrested over 2,500 individuals, including 18 of its personnel, who reportedly violated the election gun ban, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec). Based on the National Election Monitoring Action Center’s (NEMAC) latest data, authorities apprehended 2,529 gun ban violators from January 12 to April 19 this year. Of this figure, 18 are PNP personnel, 14 are members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, 12 are foreign nationals, and 2,418 are civilians. Comelec said the arrests stemmed from 2,486 gun ban violations. Confiscated from the violators were 2,603 firearms. Of this figure, 2,350 were small arms, 55 were light weapons, 27 were airsoft, 101 were replicas, 60 were explosives, and 9,451 [...]
Garments giant eyes Philippine expansion amid low US tariffs, says DTI chief
A Hong Kong-based garments company is looking to expand its manufacturing capacity in the Philippines to take advantage of the country’s relatively low tariff rates once the postponed reciprocal tariffs are lifted after 90 days. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque disclosed this to reporters in a recent interview when asked about the advantages of the 17-percent tariff imposed on the country’s imports into the United States (US). “I’m already going to meet with the garments manufacturer in Hong Kong before the end of the month because they’re already thinking of strengthening and adding more production in the Philippines because of the 17 percent,” said Roque. While she did not identify the company, the DTI Secretary said it’s “one of the biggest, if not the [...]
Money, power, violence in high-stakes Philippine elections
This photo uploaded on December 18, 2024 shows Albuera, Leyte mayoral candidate and alleged former drug lord Kerwin Espinosa hugging a senior citizen while a staffer hands a spaghetti pack during a Christmas gift-giving activity. (Courtesy: CareWin and Vice RR Facebook page) Manila, Philippines—Philippines election hopefuls like mayoral candidate Kerwin Espinosa have to ask themselves whether the job is worth taking a bullet. The country’s elections commission, Comelec, recorded 46 acts of political violence between January 12 and April 11, including the shooting of Espinosa. At a rally this month, someone from the crowd fired a bullet that went through his chest and exited his arm, leaving him bleeding but alive. Others have been less lucky. A city council hopeful, a polling officer and a village chief were among those [...]
DA, DOTr to speed up P2 billion Clark food hub
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the project would centralize the storage, processing and distribution of agricultural commodities as well as provide efficient access to farmers, traders and other buyers. MANILA, Philippines — The Departments of Agriculture and of Transportation have agreed to fast-track the development of a food hub on land owned by the Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) – a move described as a game changer in Philippine agriculture and food logistics. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the project would centralize the storage, processing and distribution of agricultural commodities as well as provide efficient access to farmers, traders and other buyers. Tiu Laurel said at least 47 hectares have been identified for the food [...]
Arrest of all suspects in Que slay pushed
The PNP earlier said that the three – a Chinese national and two Filipinos – are now in police custody. Two other Chinese nationals believed to be principal suspects remain at large. PNP chief: Case solved, justice served MANILA, Philippines — The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) is pushing for a full probe and arrest of the remaining suspects in the kidnapping and killing of Filipino-Chinese businessman Anson Que and his driver Armanie Pabillo. In a statement, the FFCCCII said that it appreciates the efforts of the Philippine National Police (PNP) following the arrest of three men allegedly involved in the kidnapping and killing of Que and Pabillo. The PNP earlier said that the three – a Chinese national and two Filipinos – are now [...]
US anti-ship missiles deployed in Batanes for Ph-US war games
A Navy Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS) launcher deploys into position aboard Pacific Missile Range Facility Barking Sands, Hawaii on August 16, 2021. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Maj. Nick Mannweiler) The United States is deploying units of its NMESIS (Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System) to the island province of Batanes as part of the annual joint military exercises between Filipino and American forces, commonly referred to as ‘Balikatan,’ which begins today. According to the Hawaii-based 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, an undisclosed number of NMESIS launchers will be transported by air to various locations across Batanes, lying approximately 150 kilometers from the southernmost tip of Taiwan. The NMESIS is a highly mobile coastal anti-ship missile system designed to strike surface vessels from land-based positions at a [...]
Powerful M7.7 earthquake rocks Myanmar, Thailand
An injured man is rescued at a construction site where a building collapsed in Bangkok on March 28, 2025, after an earthquake. A powerful earthquake rocked central Myanmar on March 28, buckling roads in capital Naypyidaw, damaging buildings and forcing people to flee into the streets in neighbouring Thailand. (Photo by Lillian Suwanrumpha / AFP) Naypyidaw, Myanmar—A powerful earthquake rattled Myanmar and neighboring Thailand on Friday, trapping dozens of workers in a collapsed under-construction skyscraper in Bangkok where a state of emergency was declared. The 7.7-magnitude tremor hit northwest of the city of Sagaing on Friday afternoon at a shallow depth, the United States Geological Survey said. A 6.4-magnitude aftershock hit the same area minutes later. In the Thai capital, a 30-storey building under construction collapsed, trapping 43 workers, [...]
PH, Japan, US hold maritime cooperative activity in WPS
COOPERATIVE ACTIVITY. The view from the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) as the Philippine Navy vessel sailed with the USS Shoup (DDG-86) and JS Noshiro (FFM-3) during the conduct of a multilateral maritime cooperative activity (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea on Friday (March 28, 2025). (Photo courtesy of LTC Salgado PA/AFP) MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), along with the naval units of Japan and the United States, conducted another “multilateral maritime cooperative activity” (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) on Friday. In a statement, the AFP said this latest MMCA aimed to enhance interoperability and strengthen the combined capabilities of the participating forces. The Philippine contingent to the latest MMCA consisted of the guided missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), an AW-109 helicopter, [...]
Isko Moreno tops latest Octa survey for Manila mayoral race
Former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno MANILA, Philippines — Former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno secured the top spot in Octa Research’s latest survey for the Manila mayoral race. According to Octa, Roberto Oca of the Association Workers Union commissioned the survey on voting preferences for the 2025 Manila elections, which was conducted from March 2 to 6. Moreno garnered more than half of the votes, at 67 percent, followed by Tutok to Win party-list Rep. Sam “SV” Verzosa at 16 percent and Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna at 15 percent. Meanwhile, actor Raymond Bagatsing secured the fourth spot at 1 percent, while the other 1 percent came from participants who answered “I don’t know.” Below are the names of other candidates included in Octa’s mayoral survey: Mahra Tamondong (0 percent) [...]
Filipinos with US green cards still at risk of losing status
Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez (Courtesy: ThisIsAmericaTV/Screenshot via YouTube) Despite holding US green cards, Filipinos remain at risk of losing their status, particularly under the hardline immigration policies under US President Donald Trump’s administration. Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez emphasized that a green card is a privilege, not a right, and can be revoked under certain conditions. “Even if you are a green card holder, as explained by the State Department, it’s a privilege granted to you. It allows you to live permanently in the United States, but it can still be revoked,” Romualdez told GMA News. According to 2021 data from the Migration Policy Institute, the Philippines was the fourth-largest source of new US permanent residents, with around 27,500 [...]
Economic woes weaken Q1 business sentiment
BSP Business Expectations Survey Q1 2025 MANILA, Philippines — Local business sentiment has weakened in the first three months of the year, with the overall confidence index significantly declining amid a string of economic uncertainties. Results of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ Business Expectation Survey released on Friday showed that the overall confidence index (CI) this first quarter had dropped to 31.2 percent from 44.5 percent in the last quarter of 2024. The more cautious outlook was primarily driven by concerns over the “post-holiday decline in demand for goods and services, a slowdown in business activities and a potential resurgence of inflationary pressures,” the BSP said in a statement. Better outlook for Q2 Globally, the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump on steel and aluminum imports, and [...]
Due to delays, Metro Manila subway may be operational by 2032 – DoTR
This February 5, 2021, photo shows the cutter head of the Tunnel Boring Machine No. 1 “Kaunlaran” that arrived at the Manila Harbor Center in Port Area, Manila. This would be used for the Metro Manila Subway Project Phase 1. It will break, cut, and grind rocks and soil by rotating its 36-piece disc cutter. (INQUIRER PHOTO / RICHARD A. REYES) MANILA, Philippines — The Metro Manila subway project might be partially operational by 2032, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said on Wednesday. Dizon said that the completion of the project is unlikely to happen in 2028, when the term of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. ends. “Napakarami pong delays. Ito pong mga dinatnan nating mga delay na ngayon ko lang po nakikita kung gaano kagrabe ang delays [...]
DENR stops hotel project in Baguio as pine trees die
UNHEALTHY CLUSTER. About 100 pine trees start to wither inside a former government-sequestered property in Baguio City where a new hotel is rising. The environment department halted the project on March 14 and asked the developer to explain why the trees died or appeared to be dying. — NEIL CLARK ONGCHANGCO BAGUIO CITY—Work on Baguio’s latest hotel project has been halted by a cease and desist order following the unexplained deterioration and death of nearly 100 pine trees in its compound. Barangay officials of Pucsusan reported the dying trees to Councilor Jose Molintas, who sought a city council inquiry on Feb. 24. UNHEALTHY CLUSTER About 100 pine trees start to wither inside a former government-sequestered property in Baguio City where a new hotel is rising. The environment department [...]
Banker Henry Aguda named new DICT secretary
The DICT welcomes as appointment of Henry Aguda as the new secretary. Source: DICT's Facebook page The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Thursday night announced the appointment of digital banking pioneer Henry Rhoel Aguda as its new secretary “The DICT family, including its attached agencies, welcomes the appointment of our new Secretary Henry Rhoel R. Aguda,” the department said in a Facebook post. Aguda, the former president and chief executive of UnionDigital Bank and the digital infrastructure sector lead of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), played a pivotal role in providing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., with visionary strategies and innovative initiatives to strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure and create more than a million digital jobs, the DICT said. With an impressive track record in the [...]
Pinoys ‘very happy’ with love life hit 20-year low
PERFECT MATCH. PHLPost’s Postmaster and CEO Luis D. Carlos holds a special stamp for this year’s Valentine’s Day celebration. The special stamps were unveiled at the Lucky Chinatown Mall in Binondo, Manila with the theme “Perfect Match.” Norman Cruz A recent survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) revealed that Filipinos who are ‘happy’ with their romantic relationships hit a 20-year low. Only 46% reported being ‘very happy,’ down 12 points from 58% in December 2023. Meanwhile, 36% said they ‘could be happier,’ and 18% admitted to having ‘no love life.’ The decline in love life satisfaction was observed among both men and women across different civil statuses, with the sharpest drop among men in live-in relationships.that almost seven in 10 Filipinos or 67% prefer to express [...]
Trump says he and Putin have agreed to begin negotiations on ending war in Ukraine
President Donald Trump arrives to greet Marc Fogel at the White House, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025, in Washington. (Photo/Alex Brandon) President Donald Trump upended three years of U.S. policy toward Ukraine on Wednesday, saying that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to begin negotiations on ending the war following a dramatic prisoner swap. Trump said in a social media post that he and Putin had a lengthy phone call during which they committed to “work together, very closely” to bring the conflict to an end. Trump then called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who said they discussed “opportunities to achieve peace.” While speaking at NATO headquarters in Brussels, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said that NATO membership was not realistic for Ukraine.
Business leaders oppose ‘unjust’ tax hikes amid excessive gov’t spending
The country’s leading business executives are opposing the government’s “continued reliance” on tax increases while state spending continues to be excessive, pointing out its severe impact on the financial well-being of Filipinos. The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), which comprises the country’s tycoons and business leaders, specifically questioned the proposed Government Revenues Optimization through Wealth Tax Harmonization (GROWTH). The GROWTH bill, proposed last December by the Department of Finance (DOF), includes a proposed increase in estate tax, donor’s tax, and capital gains tax from six to ten percent. “This policy approach is not only unjust but also detrimental to economic growth, wealth transfer, and the financial well-being of Filipino families,” MAP stated. In a letter addressed to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., the business group pointed out that [...]
21st PH-China festival kicks off, marks 50 years of diplomacy
Filipino-Chinese groups participate in the 21st Philippines-China Traditional Cultural Festival at the Chinese Garden in Rizal Park on Feb. 9, 2025. The 21st Philippines-China Traditional Cultural Festival kicked off at the Chinese Garden in Rizal Park on Feb. 9, 2025, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines. The event was organized by Manila City Hall, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, the Filipino Chinese Youth Educational Center, the National Parks Development Committee, the Department of Tourism, Culture and the Arts of Manila, the Manila Chinatown Development Council and the Confucius Institute at Ateneo de Manila University, with additional support from various Filipino-Chinese associations. China Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xi Lian delivered a message of congratulations to the Filipino-Chinese community and those who support [...]
Kontra Daya: Over half of party lists don’t represent poor
AMEND THE LAW. There are 63 party list lawmakers in the House of Representatives at present. Bills seeking to amend the party list law by preventing political and economic elites from infiltrating the system have been gathering dust since the 15th Congress. —Lyn Rillon MANILA, Philippines — The poll watchdog Kontra Daya on Wednesday released a study claiming that more than half of the party list groups seeking seats in the May elections do not represent the marginalized and underrepresented. In addition, most groups leading in the surveys have been flagged for hijacking the party list system. Kontra Daya convenor Danilo Arao said 86, or 55.13 percent of the 156 party list groups eligible to participate in the party list elections, have links with political dynasties, big businesses, [...]
Philippines, Japan sign deal to support UP Open RAN Laboratory
Photo courtesy of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Endo Kazuya on Wednesday signed and exchanged notes with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo for an Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) System at the University of the Philippines (UP) under the Government of Japan’s Economic and Social Development Programme. According to the ambassador, the grant of up to JPY 444 million (around P168 million) seeks to strengthen the information and telecommunications infrastructure in the Philippines by providing Open RAN-related equipment to UP. Open RAN offers a flexible and standardized architecture to enable interoperability between various network components from different vendors. This is said to promote greater market competition, improve network security, and lower costs with great potential in a mobile-first [...]
National Unity Government (NUG) Announces Readiness to Crack Down on Online Fraud Syndicates
The National Unity Government (NUG) has declared its readiness to collaborate with neighboring countries in the region to combat online fraud syndicates and curb transnational crimes effectively. This announcement was made during a press briefing held by NUG on January 21, 2025. NUG’s Commitment to Fighting Fraud At the press conference, U Kyaw Zaw, spokesperson for the NUG Presidential Office, stated: “We are prepared to join hands with neighboring and regional countries to protect the public from the harm caused by fraud syndicates and to take decisive action against perpetrators.” The State of Online Fraud in Myanmar Notorious hubs for online fraud and cyber scams—Shwe Kokko and Myawaddy—are currently under the control of the Border Guard Force (BGF) and the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA), led by Major General [...]
Philippines, United States hold joint maritime exercises
The Armed Forces of the Philippines and the US Indo-Pacific Command, which included the USS Carl Vinson carrier strike group, completed the first maritime cooperative activity of 2025 in the West Philippine Sea off Palawan over the weekend. MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and the United States carried out joint maritime exercises for the fifth time in the South China Sea, Manila’s armed forces said yesterday, in a move that would likely irk China. The Philippine military said in a statement it held a “maritime cooperative activity” with the US on Friday and Saturday, its first for the year and fifth overall since launching the joint activities in 2023. Security engagements between the two allies have soared under President Marcos, who has pivoted closer to Washington, allowing the expansion [...]
TikTok restores service in US, thanking Trump
A display shows information about TikTok outside the Fox News building in New York City on January 19, 2025. AFP / Kena Betancur WASHINGTON, United States — TikTok restored service in the United States Sunday after briefly going dark, as a law banning the wildly popular app on national security grounds came into effect. The video-sharing platform credited President-elect Donald Trump, who retakes power on Monday, for making the reversal possible -- though the outgoing administration of President Joe Biden had earlier said that it would not enforce any ban. TikTok had shut down in the United States late Saturday as a deadline loomed for its Chinese owners ByteDance to sell its US subsidiary to non-Chinese buyers. Earlier Sunday, as millions of dismayed users found themselves barred from the [...]
Trump vows ‘speed and strength’ at inauguration eve rally
President-Elect Donald Trump speaks at his victory rally at the Capital One Arena on January 19, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump will be sworn in as the 47th U.S. president on January 20. Scott Olson/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by SCOTT OLSON / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP) Washington, United States—US President-elect Donald Trump vowed a blitz of emergency actions Sunday at a huge victory rally on the eve of his inauguration, starting with a crackdown on an “invasion” of immigrants at the border with Mexico. “Starting tomorrow, I will act with historic speed and strength and fix every single crisis facing our country,” Trump told a cheering crowd at a Washington arena the day before he is sworn in for a second term. Republican Trump [...]
P58/kg imported rice max SRP takes effect
Rice retailers manage their stalls at Marikina Public Market on January 7, 2025. STAR / Michael Varcas MANILA, Philippines — The maximum suggested retail price (SRP) of P58 on imported rice takes effect today, a ranking official of the Department of Agriculture (DA) said as cost of the staple remains high despite the implementation of Executive Order 62, which lowered the tariff on imported grains to 15 percent from 35 percent. In a radio interview yesterday, Agriculture Assistant Secretary and spokesman Arnel de Mesa said personnel of the DA and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) would inspect the different markets in Metro Manila to ensure compliance to the P58 maximum SRP. “The maximum SRP on five percent broken (imported rice) and the changes on labeling will start [...]
DepEd, OceanX partner to bring immersive ocean education to Filipino learners
Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara tours the OceanXplorer at the Manila South Port in 2024. (DepEd photo) The Department of Education (DepEd) has formalized a strategic partnership with OceanX Education, Inc., a US-based ocean exploration initiative, to develop immersive ocean education offerings and foster ocean leadership among Filipino students. Under the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), DepEd and OceanX will collaborate on science expeditions that utilize the OceanXplorer, the world’s most advanced research and media vessel. As part of its 2025 science research expedition, OceanX will conduct in-port activations to provide Filipino learners with hands-on experience and valuable insights into the work of marine scientists involved in ocean conservation and research. DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara toured the OceanXplorer at Manila South Port last year. Beyond its collaboration [...]
Hefty fuel price hike to hit motorists hard next week, increase of over P2/liter looms
Brace yourselves for a shock at the gas station as fuel prices are poised for a hefty surge next week, with analysts predicting an increase of over P2 per liter for diesel. Based on four days of trading on the Means of Platts Singapore (MOPS), along with movements in the international oil market, gasoline is forecasted to increase by P1.35 to P1.60 per liter, diesel by P2.30 to P2.60 per liter, and kerosene by P2.30 to P2.50 per liter. Analysts from the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) and Jetti Petroleum cited the effects of sanctions imposed on Russia by the United States and the United Kingdom. “This will result in a reduction of Russian exports, which could push global crude prices higher in the near [...]
Taiwan-PH foundation sustains student support
Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines Representative Wallace Minn-Gan Chow (fourth from the left), Hsu Chia-ching, Minister of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (sixth from right), Lin You-chang, Secretary-General of the Democratic Progressive Party (fifth from left) and Legislator Lee Kuen-cheng (fifth from right) attend the event to offer their congratulations. The Taiwan-Philippines Educational Development Foundation (TPEDF) held its 4th and 5th board of directors inauguration ceremony on Jan. 12, 2025 at Century Seafood Restaurant. Re-elected chairman Su Kuo-fang, president of Song Yue Construction, emphasized the foundation’s dedication to providing airfare sponsorships to financially disadvantaged Filipino-Chinese students pursuing technical and vocational education in Taiwan. Minister Hsu Chia-ching (second from the right) presents congratulatory certificates to the re-elected Chairman Su Kuo-fang (second from the left) and [...]
Government may declare food security emergency
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. inspects rice prices at a public market in Pasig City yesterday. MANILA, Philippines — There is sufficient basis to declare a food security emergency, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said yesterday, noting that rice prices remain high despite the imposition of lower tariffs on imported rice. “The data was very clear when we presented it to the NPCC (National Price Coordinating Council),” Tiu Laurel told a press briefing at Malacañang. “We have solid data that show that it is really justified.” He said he is waiting for the NPCC to formally transmit its recommendation to the agriculture department for the declaration of a food security emergency. Once he receives it, Tiu Laurel said he would seek comments from President Marcos. Under the [...]
Comelec to destroy 6m ballots
‘BACK TO ZERO.’ Commission on Elections chairman George Garcia says the poll body will shred at least 6 million ballots that were already printed following a Supreme Court restraining order on the disqualification of five candidates. Garcia says poll body ‘back to zero’ amid SC ruling on DQ of 5 bets The Commission on Elections will shred 6 million ballots for the midterm polls worth over P130 million before printing new ones to include the names of five candidates it previously disqualified. This as the Supreme Court earlier issued temporary restraining orders on the disqualification of the five candidates. Comelec chairperson George Garcia said the ballots would be shredded to ensure they cannot be used in the upcoming polls. The ballots were printed at P22 each, which means the [...]
PH to raise ‘Monster’ ship issue during bilateral talks with China
Courtesy: Philippine Coast Guard (via Commodore Jay Tarriela/X) The Philippine government will raise its concerns over recent developments in the West Philippine Sea – including Beijing’s deployment of its so-called “monster ship” near Zambales – during the two states’ scheduled bilateral meeting on Thursday. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Wednesday confirmed the two states will be holding the Philippine-China Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) meeting in China on Jan. 16, with Undersecretary Maria Theresa Lazaro as the Philippine delegation head. Asked if Manila would be demanding Beijing to pull out its 541-foot-long coast guard vessel near Zambales, Manalo said: “We will certainly raise the concerns that we have, including that.” He said the two governments would try to look at how they could cooperate in certain areas, [...]
PH consulate offers emergency services to Filipinos affected by LA fires
No appointment required for emergency travel document and consular services on Jan. 18 and 25 Residents of a senior center are evacuated as the Eaton Fire approaches Jan. 7, 2025, in Altadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope, File) With the goal of assisting those who lost crucial identification and travel documents in the wake of the recent Los Angeles County wildfires, the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles has announced special operations on two Saturdays in January. Filipinos affected by the devastating wildfires can now turn to the consulate for urgent support. According to an advisory released on Wednesday, the consulate will offer emergency consular services on Jan. 18 and 25, operating from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No prior appointment will be necessary, as assistance will be [...]
Percentage of Filipinos with savings dips to over 3-year low
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO MANILA, Philippines — The proportion of Filipino households with savings dipped to its lowest level in over three years in the fourth quarter, with pessimistic consumers yet to regain their pre-pandemic confidence level as they continue to brace for higher inflation and borrowing costs. A nationwide survey of 5,350 families showed 25.6 percent of families in the Philippines have money to save in the October-December period, lower than the 29-percent recorded in the third quarter, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported. The top reasons for setting aside cash were emergencies; health and medical expenses; education; retirement; business capital and investment; and house purchase. But data showed the latest result was the lowest reading since the third quarter of 2021, when the percentage of families [...]
Reforms crucial to PH foreign policy
THE Philippines must initiate key reforms to achieve a truly independent foreign policy, said retired University of the Philippines professor Roland Simbulan at a forum on Friday. Simbulan added that a truly sovereign Philippines should not only resist foreign influence but also build internal capacity to thrive independently. He warned that China's control of the South China Sea was strategic, noting the region serves as a crucial trade route and buffer zone for deterring external threats. Simbulan said public mobilization was crucial to resisting China's aggressive territorial claims, as well as questioning the United States' use of the Philippines as a staging ground for its Indo-Pacific strategy. By strengthening its economy, resolving internal conflicts, and asserting its rights in the international arena, the Philippines can secure a peaceful and [...]
Veloso on her way home
JAKARTA — Mary Jane Veloso, sentenced to death in Indonesia, was moved to capital Jakarta, before she is expected to fly home on Wednesday, after the government signed an agreement to repatriate her. A mother of two, Veloso, 39, was arrested and convicted in 2010 after the suitcase she was carrying was found to be lined with 2.6 kilograms of heroin. On Sunday, officers picked her up from a women's prison in Yogyakarta province before transporting her to another prison in Jakarta, more than 418 kilometers away A handout photo made available by the Indonesian Ministry of Law and Human Rights shows alleged drug trafficking convict Mary Jane Veloso gesturing in thanks shortly before she is transported to Jakarta, at the Wonosari Women's Prison in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, 15 December [...]
‘Noche Buena’ reaches troops in West Philippine Sea as Chinese ships steer clear
Military personnel stationed at Naval Detachment Kota receive supplies and noche buena packages during the AFP's sustainment mission for all Philippine-occupied features in the West Philippine Sea from December 3 to 14, 2024. MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines completed its rotation and resupply mission to nine island features in the West Philippine Sea in the last two weeks, delivering noche buena packages to troops while Chinese vessels kept their distance. Two Chinese Coast Guard ships and two Chinese warships were monitored near Ayungin Shoal during the December 3-14 operation, according to the Philippine Navy. "They were just in the vicinity doing nothing, no illegal actions, no coercive actions," said Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, at a press conference [...]
Senate votes 19-0 to ratify PH-Japan defense agreement
UNANIMOUS VOTE. Senate President Francis Escudero presents to Japanese envoy to Manila, Endo Kazuya, the Senate Resolution ratifying the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan which would facilitate reciprocal access and cooperation between the militaries of both countries. PRIB The Philippine Senate ratified yesterday a key defense pact with Japan, which allows them to deploy troops on each other’s soil as they boost ties to bolster against China’s growing pressure. Both countries are longtime allies of the United States, which has been strengthening an arc of alliances to deter China’s disputed territorial claims in the Pacific. The pact, which also allows for increased joint combat drills, was ratified by the Philippine senate with no negative votes or abstentions, Senate President Francis Escudero said. Lawmakers in [...]
LPA off Mindanao now TD Querubin — Pagasa
Courtesy: DOST-PHIVOLCS A low pressure area (LPA) off Mindanao developed into tropical depression “Querubin” on Tuesday, the state weather bureau said. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said earlier said the LPA was estimated at 155 kilometers east southeast of Tagum City, Davao del Norte. “It is embedded along an intertropical convergence zone affecting the Visayas and Mindanao,” Pagasa reported. The LPA is forecast to bring cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms in Eastern Visayas, Caraga and Davao Region. Pagasa further said Querubin was spotted east of Davao del Norte at 2 p.m. The state weather agency earlier warned that Querubin and the shear line would bring heavy to intense rains in Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Davao Occidental, and Davao [...]
Climate change intensified back-to-back typhoons in the Philippines — study
An aerial view shows submerged homes at a village in Ilagan, Isabela province on November 18, 2024, due to continuous heavy rains from Super Typhoon Man-yi. Filipinos cleared fallen trees and repaired damaged houses on November 18 after the sixth major storm to batter the Philippines in a month smashed flimsy buildings, knocked out power and claimed at least one life. MANILA, Philippines — Human-induced climate change fuelled a rare string of back-to-back typhoons that battered the Philippines this year and boosted the chances of powerful storms making landfall, a new study said on Thursday. Five typhoons and a tropical storm hit the Philippines in a 23-day period across October and November, killing more than 170 people and causing at least $235 million in damage, according to local authorities. [...]
Social media, ChatGPT outage hits users
Meta’s social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and Messenger, experienced widespread disruptions on Thursday, impacting users globally. Outage reports surfaced around 2:00 a.m., with users reporting difficulties accessing platforms, logging in, and sending messages. Meta acknowledged the technical issues affecting user access and pledged to restore services swiftly and issued an apology via X. “We’re aware that a technical issue is impacting some users’ ability to access our apps. We’re working to get things back to normal as quickly as possible and apologize for any inconvenience,” Meta said in the statement. At its peak, the outage generated tens of thousands of user reports on Downdetector, peaking at almost 90,000 for Facebook around 2:30 a.m., with some users reporting limited functionality like posting and liking. “Thanks for bearing with [...]
US-China officials to hold economic talks before Trump return
In this file photo taken on November 9, 2017, US President Donald Trump (L) shakes hand with China's President Xi Jinping in Beijing. US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will discuss trade on the sidelines of a Group of 20 summit in Argentina this month, a senior US official said November 13, 2018. WASHINGTON, United States — Economic officials in outgoing President Joe Biden's administration are set to meet their Chinese counterparts this week for talks, in a final effort to strengthen ties before Donald Trump's White House return. The talks come as Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stressed in an interview Wednesday the need for "ongoing communications at all levels" to avoid needless worsening in relations between the world's two biggest economies. Economic and trade tensions [...]
Gov’t gearing up for worst from Kanlaon
FLIGHT TO SAFETY. Soldiers help residents evacuate from the six-kilometer danger zone around Kanlaon Volcano. AFP The government is gearing up for a potential worst-case scenario amid the ongoing eruption of Mt. Kanlaon on Negros Island, an official from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said yesterday. OCD Assistant Secretary Raffy Alejandro said preparations include readying evacuation centers and resources in case volcanologists raise the alert level for the volcano from 3 to 4 “We already have worst-case scenario planning. We are also preparing the necessary evacuation centers because if there is an elevation of the Alert Level, even just to Alert Level 4, the number of people needing to be evacuated will increase by ten thousand. From 54,000 it will rise to 64,000,” he said. “Family [...]
Poll body issues new rules on campaign materials
Comelec headquarters in Intramuros, Manila. INQUIRER FILES MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued a new set of rules and regulations implementing Republic Act No. 9006, or the Fair Election Act of 2001, to enhance the holding of free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible midterm polls next year. Comelec Resolution No. 11086, issued on Dec. 9 but released to the media on Wednesday, contains more or less the same provisions concerning fair election practices in Resolution No. 10730, which was promulgated for the 2022 elections. It, however, introduces new items on political campaigns. Candidates and political parties will now have at least 72 hours before the campaign period starts to remove all prohibited forms of propaganda, including names, images, logos, brands, insignias, initials and other [...]
VP Sara Duterte faces 2nd impeachment complaint
Over 50 complainants hold a press conference before filing the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte on the ground of betrayal of public trust on Dec. 4, 2024. Makabayan bloc lawmakers endorsed the complaint. News5 / Marianne Enriquez MANILA, Philippines — A few days after the first, a second impeachment complaint was filed against Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday, December 4. However, the second complaint only cited betrayal of public trust as the ground for impeachment, in contrast to the first complaint, which included graft and corruption, bribery, and other high crimes. Similar grounds were referenced in the second complaint filed by over 70 complainants from various civil society groups, including the marginalized, labor, peasant, environmental, student and rights organizations. Lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc endorsed the impeachment [...]
Pro-Duterte groups hit impeachment complaint
THE Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute (ACPSSI) think tank warned on Monday that the filing of an impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte could exacerbate political divisions, provoke discontent within the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and distract the government from addressing pressing economic challenges. In a statement, ACPSSI President Herman Tiu Laurel expressed concern that the "political drama" would undermine efforts to achieve economic recovery and development in the Philippines, which is still grappling with post-pandemic challenges. Laurel added that the impeachment drive could have long-term repercussions for the Marcos administration and its allies in the legislature, suggesting a potential backlash from the public and other political factions. Vice President Sara Duterte. PHOTOS BY ISMAEL DE JUAN The impeachment complaint, filed on Dec. 1 [...]
Group asks budget bicam to correct ‘errors’ in PhilHealth funding
(PNA file photo by Joan Bondoc) MANILA – A group of health advocates on Monday decried Congress' ignorance of the law for "drastically cutting" the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation's (PhilHealth) budget for 2025. Congress and the Department of Budget and Management appropriated PHP53.26 billion worth of premiums, covering only 14 million out of the 25.28 million indirect contributors to PhilHealth. The state insurer requested for PHP150.92 billion which shall cover itd indirect contributors. "Congress’ refusal to provide sufficient premiums for PhilHealth contributors is a clear violation of the constitutional right to health," the Sin Tax Coalition said in a statement. "The letter of the law is clear. Our sin tax laws provide for the earmarking of revenues to PhilHealth -- 80 percent of the half of the total [...]
Taal Volcano logs phreatic explosion – OCD
MANILA – The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said Taal Volcano erupted early Tuesday morning. “Naganap ang steam-driven or phreatic na pagputok sa Bulkang Taal patungo sa timog-kanluran dakong 5:58 ng umaga (A steam-driven or phreatic eruption occurred at Taal Volcano towards the southwest direction at 5:58 a.m.),” the OCD-Calabarzon said in its Facebook post. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) also notified the public through short message service or SMS, advising them to wait for the next advisories. A minor phreatic eruption event, which lasted for six minutes, was likewise reported in Taal Volcano on Nov. 30, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. Phreatic eruptions are steam-driven explosions that occur when water beneath the ground or on the surface is heated by [...]
PCG encouraging more Filipino fishermen to cast nets in Rozul Reef as agency maintains presence
Fisherfolk on small bancas join volunteers from the Atin Ito Coalition and members of the media as they prepare to depart from Matalbis Port in Masinloc, Zambales, for the second civilian resupply mission to the West Philippine Sea on May 15, 2024. Maria Tan, ABS-CBN News/File MANILA (UPDATE) — The Philippine Coast Guard is encouraging more Filipino fishermen to cast their nets in Rozul Reef, also known as Iroquois Reef, as the agency continuously maintains its presence in the area. The PCG conducted a maritime patrol in the vicinity of Rozul Reef on Sunday. ABS-CBN News was among the team of journalists who joined the mission. Rozul Reef is approximately 128 nautical miles or 237 kilometers away from mainland Palawan, well within the Philippines' 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone [...]
DA: 300,000 MT rice wasted yearly
Workers unload sacks of rice from a delivery truck along Dagupan Street in Tondo, Manila on January 22, 2024. Ernie Penaredondo / The Philippine STAR MANILA, Philippines — At least 300,000 metric tons of rice are wasted each year, according to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., as he backed proposed bills to promote half-cup servings “With around 300,000 tons of rice wasted annually, selling half-cup rice servings offers a practical way to reduce wastage. Eating rice wisely is a responsibility we all share,” he said. Tiu Laurel emphasized the importance of adopting sustainable practices, adding that proposed national bills are set to play a crucial role in promoting responsible rice consumption and reducing wastage across the country. Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) development communication division head Hazel Antonio-Beltran [...]
EDCA sites being readied; more joint bases sought
Defense officials seek to ensure that locations under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States are ready for their envisioned roles even while a House leader said more sites should be set aside for joint operations with the Philippines’ oldest ally. On Sunday, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers made a pitch for establishing an EDCA site within his province. He pointed out that Surigao del Norte sits directly in the country’s eastern waters and the Pacific Ocean, facing continuing threats from drug smugglers, spy vessels and other foreign intruders. “The province’s distinct advantage to have an EDCA naval site is that it is openly facing the Pacific Ocean and has an outlet to the West Philippine Sea, and ships can traverse the country from [...]
Colmenares: ICC may be preparing for Duterte trial
Former Bayan Muna Partylist representative and lawyer Neri Colmenares —Joseph Vidal/Senate PRIB MANILA, Philippines — The International Criminal Court (ICC) may have finally wrapped up its investigation into the alleged crimes against humanity case against former President Rodrigo Duterte and is now preparing for trial, one of the counsels for drug war victims said on Sunday. Former Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares, a lawyer for the families of extrajudicial killing victims and accredited counsel of the ICC, said the court was now encouraging the police and other possible insiders to testify as witnesses, even as the “original set” of witnesses would already suffice. This process alone was a “new phase in the process of holding Duterte accountable for his crimes against humanity,” Colmenares said in a statement. “This [...]
LPG prices up by P1.20/kg due to higher world rates
Oil firms increased the price of liquefied petroleum gas or LPG prices by as much as P1.20 per kilogram or P13.20 per 11-kilo tank effective Dec. 1 to reflect the higher contract price of LPG in the world market this month. Petron Corp. and Solane LPG issued separate advisories of the LPG increase “This reflects the international contract price of LPG for the month of December,” Petron said. Petron implemented a P1.20 per kilo (VAT-inclusive) increase in LPG prices effective 12:01 AM Dec. 1 while Solane raised LPG prices by P1.19 per kilo (VAT inclusive) effective Dec. 1 at 6AM. This developed as consumers can expect a mixed oil price movement on Tuesday with gasoline increasing by as much as P0.90 per liter but diesel will have a rollback [...]
First impeachment complaint vs VP Sara filed at House
Vice President Sara Duterte MANILA, Philippines — The first impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte was filed by civil society organizations before the House of Representatives’ Office of the Secretary General Monday afternoon. The 50-page impeachment complaint crafted by religious leaders, sectoral representatives, and families of drug war victims was endorsed by Akbayan party-list Rep. Percival Cendaña before 3:00 p.m. “Today, I formally endorse the first-ever and historic impeachment complaint filed by our citizens against Vice President Sara Duterte,” Cendaña said in a statement handed out to reporters before the filing. Former DOJ secretary Leila de Lima, who accompanied the civil society representatives, said that there are 17 complainants: Former presidential peace adviser Ging Deles Catholic priest Flavie Villanueva Former Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano Urban poor [...]
Pinoy ‘illegals’ in US urged: Go home or risk deportation
PHILIPPINE Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez on Friday advised Filipinos illegally staying or working in the US to go back to the Philippines or risk deportation, following the return of President-elect Donald Trump to the White House. In an online media forum organized by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (Focap), Romualdez said Trump successfully made a comeback to the White House because of his campaign promise to deport all immigrants in the US. He urged Filipino illegals to voluntarily return to the Philippines or start working on their documents. PEACEFUL TRANSITION US President Joe Biden departs after speaking about the results of the 2024 election in the Rose Garden on Nov. 7, 2024, in Washington, D.C. Former president Donald Trump defeated Democratic candidate Vice [...]
Marcos order banning Pogos finally out: All for national security
BATAAN RAID Government agents discover a suspected Philippine offshore gaming operator that has continued to defy the ban ordered in July by President Marcos, in a raid on a sprawling complex in Barangay Padang, Bagac, in Bataan province on Oct. 31. —NIÑO JESUS ORBETA President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday issued a formal order banning companies collectively known as Philippine offshore gaming operators or Pogos, three months after first giving the directive during his July 22 State of the Nation Address. Dated Nov. 5, the President’s Executive Order (EO) 74 cited national security and public order as the paramount reasons for closing down Pogos, which began to thrive during the previous administration but had increasingly been linked to organized crime. Recent congressional hearings on Pogos, prompted by raids [...]
DOE foresees another round of oil price hike
THE Department of Energy (DOE) has confirmed an impending big time oil price hike of up to P1.90 per liter to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market The DOE said gasoline may go up by P1.10 to P1.40 per liter, diesel by P1.70 to P1.90 per liter, and kerosene by P1.10 to P1.20 per liter. DOE Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) director Rodela Romero said oil prices edged up for the past four days of trading in the Mean of Platts Singapore ( MOPS), the pricing benchmark of oil importers due to a confluence of factors. She said this includes the impact of the storm that is expected to cut US output in the Gulf of Mexico and the Organization of the Petroleum [...]
Marcos signs 2 laws to bolster WPS rights
MARKING TERRITORY. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. presents the newly-signed Philippine Maritime Zones Act and Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act in ceremonies held yesterday at the Malacanang Palace. With the President are Senate President Francis Escudero and House Speaker Martin Romualdez and members of the Cabinet and Congress. Revoli Cortez Gov’t to release official map marking Spratlys, Scarborough President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday signed two landmark laws—the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act—designed to strengthen maritime claims and sovereignty by clearly delineating the maximum extent of the country’s territorial waters. “These two laws underscore the importance of our maritime and archipelagic identity. They align our domestic laws with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), clearly defining the extent [...]
Some govt agencies lag in digital transition
DESPITE the administration's push for digitalization of government services to curb corruption, many agencies have not fully embraced going digital. This is evident in some government agencies whose websites remain outdated and whose transaction processes remain stuck in pen and paper. A recent study by the Pathways for Prosperity Commission on Technology and Inclusive Development showed that information and communication technology (ICT) has affected the work of all actors involved in or against corruption, including public institutions, civil society organizations, the private sector and media "While many see great promise in this development, the effectiveness of ICT tools, as well as their drawbacks and potential misuse, vary widely. Some technologies may even enable corruption," the study said. It found that "concerning transparency portals, impactful examples that provide big and [...]
Fewer Pinoys say quality of life improved – SWS
Results of the Sept. 14 to 23 survey found that 37 percent of the respondents said their quality of life improved in the past 12 months. STAR / Edd Gumban MANILA, Philippines — About four in every 10 Filipinos said their quality of life improved over the past year, a recent survey conducted by Social Weather Stations (SWS) showed. Results of the Sept. 14 to 23 survey found that 37 percent of the respondents said their quality of life improved in the past 12 months. It was down two points from the 39 percent obtained in a similar survey conducted in June Meanwhile, those who said the quality of their lives worsened increased slightly from 23 to 24 percent. Thirty-eight percent said it stayed the same, similar to the [...]
Comelec to print 71m ballots for 2025 midterm elections
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will not print more than 71 million ballots for the May 2025 midterm elections This was according to Comelec chairman George Garcia who said there are about 68 million registered voters nationwide, but the number will slightly increase as other Comelec satellite offices still have to submit their final lists of new voters. “I would like to confirm to you that we have more or less 68 million voters nationwide. We already received reports coming from 93 percent of the election officers nationwide,” Garcia said in a viber message. “If ever there are additional, there would be a modest number of voters,” Garcia added. “The poll body will only print ballots depending on the total population of the registered voters, including [...]
After ‘Kristine’: Storm ‘Leon’ advances toward Luzon
Satellite image rendering of tropical cyclone "Leon" (international name Kong-rey) as of 7:45 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 28, 2024. MANILA, Philippines — Tropical Storm Leon (international name: Kong-rey) has maintained its strength as it decelerates over the Philippine Sea on Monday morning, October 28, with tropical cyclone wind signals up over some areas that are still recovering from effects of Tropical Storm Kristine. As of 4 a.m. AM, the center of Leon was estimated at 840 kilometers east of Central Luzon, with maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center, gustiness of up to 105 kph. The storm is currently moving westward at a slower pace of 10 kph. While it hoisted Signal No. 1 over portions of Northern Luzon, state weather bureau PAGASA said [...]
Death toll from ‘Kristine’ rises to 116, says NDRRMC
The total death toll attributed to Severe Tropical Storm “Kristine” has risen to 116. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), 39 people are also reported missing, while 109 individuals have been injured Most of the casualties are aged between 26 and 60 years old, however, these numbers remain subject to validation. The weather disturbance displaced 575,000 individuals who are currently staying in over 6,000 evacuation centers nationwide. Additionally, the storm has caused flooding in 663 areas across 13 regions in the country. The NDRRMC also reported that 35,918 farmers and fisherfolk have been affected by Kristine. The disaster agency noted that a total of 31,670 hectares of crops were washed away due to the severe weather conditions. Kristine is the deadliest [...]
PH successfully caps joint sail with NZ, Japan, US, Australia
4th multilateral maritime cooperative activity of the armed forces of the Philippines, New Zealand, Japan, the United States, and Australia in the West Philippine Sea on Saturday (Sept. 28, 2024) (AFP photo) MANILA – The Philippines successfully concluded its one-day multilateral maritime cooperative activity (MMCA) with the defense forces of New Zealand, Japan, the United States, and Australia in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday said the sails were conducted within the vicinity of the WPS under the area of operations of the Northern Luzon Command. This latest MMCA iteration, it said, introduced "enhanced exercises" to improve interoperability, with New Zealand’s participation for the first time "adding a new dimension to the collaborative efforts." “This underscores our shared commitments [...]
New Zealand has few jobs, Filipino nurses told
(UPDATES) THE Philippine Embassy in Wellington has advised all Filipino nurses looking for jobs in New Zealand to exercise great caution before traveling to the country because there is a lack of employment opportunities for foreign nurses in the country. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday said that the embassy had reported that certain individuals and agencies offer to facilitate the hiring of foreign nurses by arranging for them to travel to New Zealand on a visitor visa to take the Comprehensive Assessment Program (CAP) or Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) for nurses and subsequently apply for registration by the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) The embassy said that while taking the CAP or OSCE and being registered by the NCNZ is a legitimate means for [...]
3K foreign POGO workers leave PH after downgrading visas
MANILA – Some 3,000 foreign workers from Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) with downgraded visas have already left the country, the Bureau of Immigration said in a news release on Saturday. During a meeting of the "Task Force POGO Closure," BI Officer-in-Charge Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, reported that as of Sept. 24, they have downgraded 5,955 visas. Of the total, some 55 percent are already out of the Philippines. The task force is composed of the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and the BI. Also in attendance were representatives of the Philippine National Police and National Bureau of Investigation. “During the meeting, members agreed to conduct service days for POGO companies, where [...]
‘Julian’ now severe tropical storm
(DOST-PAGASA Satellite Image) MANILA – Julian has intensified into a severe tropical storm category, the weather bureau said Sunday morning. Severe tropical storm Julian was last seen 305 km. east of Aparri, Cagayan with maximum sustained winds of 95 kph near the center, and gustiness of up to 115 kph, according to the tropical cyclone bulletin of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued at 5 a.m. Julian is moving west-northwestward at 10 kph. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 2 has been hoisted in the northeastern portion of Mainland Cagayan (Santa Ana) and the eastern portion of Babuyan Islands (Camiguin and Babuyan Islands). Meanwhile, Batanes, the rest of Cagayan, the rest of Babuyan Islands, Isabela, Apayao, Abra, Kalinga, the eastern and central portions of Mountain [...]
Garafil takes over as new MECO chief
Former Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil is set to formally assume her new role as chairperson of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) on Monday, replacing outgoing MECO chief Silvestre Bello III. The MECO Board will hold a meeting on September 30 after President Marcos officially endorsed Garafil to serve as head of the Philippine Representative Office in Taiwan. Bello held the MECO post for two years (2022-2024). In a statement, the Federation of Filipino Communities in Taiwan thanked Bello for addressing their needs and concerns as well as “ensuring their rights are protected and promoting their welfare.” “Such efforts not only enhance the quality of life for individuals but also strengthen the cultural and social bonds between the two nations,” the organization [...]
Chinese ships spotted near maritime drills within Philippines’ EEZ
Col. Francel Margareth Padilla Taborlupa The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed on Sunday the presence of People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels in the vicinity of the 4th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCCA) that took place over the weekend. AFP Spokesperson Colonel Margareth Padilla stated that they closely monitored the Chinese ships However, she noted that the MCCA proceeded as planned without any interference, ensuring the safety of participating countries’ vessels through established protocols. “While there were observations of PLAN vessels tailing during the MCCA, no reports were received regarding the conduct of the alleged Chinese military exercise,” Padilla told reporters. The AFP views the MCCA as a pivotal demonstration of international cooperation, which strengthens partnerships and enhances the capabilities of allied nations. “This collaborative [...]
Marcos signs seafarers’ magna carta bill today
MARITIME MEMORIAL Members of the Philippine Coast Guard, together with families and other relatives of seafarers and fisherfolk who perished at sea, make an offering of flowers and prayers during a ceremony at Manila Bay on Sunday marking National Seafarers’ Day and National Maritime Week. —Richard A. Reyes MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos is expected to sign into law on Monday the bill that aims to protect the rights and welfare of around half-a-million Filipino seafarers, according to Senate President Francis Escudero. “This law ensures that no Filipino seafarer is neglected when something happens to them while they perform their duty, legally or medically wise,” he said, referring to Senate Bill No. 2221 and House Bill No. 7325, or the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. Escudero, in [...]
House to pass budget bill this week
THE House of Representatives is determined to approve the General Appropriations Bill (GAB) for 2025 on third and final reading on Wednesday before it goes on a break. The proposed national budget for next year is P6.352 trillion. On Sunday, Speaker Martin Romualdez said the House was "treating the national spending program with urgency without sacrificing transparency. Approving the bill before the recess would give the Senate enough time to scrutinize the budget, Romualdez said. "We have sufficient time to finally agree on the budget before yearend. It is the most important piece of legislation Congress passes every year," he said. "Next year's spending legislation will serve as our tool for sustained economic development. It will support the Agenda for Prosperity programs" of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., he said. [...]
Militants to stage 2-day transport strike till Tuesday
A two-day transport strike led by PISTON and MANIBELA begins today until Tuesday to oppose the government’s Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) LTFRB Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III however assured the public that the government is ready to assist commuters who may be affected by the strike. He said the LTFRB will deploy “Libreng Sakay” vehicles in key areas in Metro Manila. “We remain committed to ensuring the commuting public’s access to transportation,” he added. Guadiz said that the agency respects the right of drivers and operators to free expression as enshrined in the Constitution, and acknowledges the concerns of the transport sector. The agency also urged drivers participating in the strike not to cause heavy traffic on major thoroughfares. Meanwhile a group backing the PTMP—or formerly [...]
New PCG ship arrives at Escoda
Courtesy: Philippine Coast Guard The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Sunday, confirmed that they successfully deployed one of their vessels in Escoda Shoal without having been confronted by Chinese ships along the way. In an interview, PCG commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said “no significant adverse situation” greeted the PCG vessel as it arrived at the contested shoal. He assured that the PCG would not seek to match China’s bellicose posturing in the WPS. “Our approach is always peaceful and rules-based as much as possible,” the PCG chief said. For his part, PCG spokesperson, Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said the ship that relieved the damaged BRP Teresa Magbanua had already commenced patrolling the waters around the atoll, which falls within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). “We have [...]
VP Sara leads nationwide distribution of ‘PagbaBAGo’ bags
BASIC SCHOOL NEEDS. Vice President Sara Duterte leads the distribution of “PagbaBAGo” bags at the Ma’had Norol Yaqeen Litahfidil Qur’an (Madrasah School) in Caloocan City on Friday (August 30, 2024). Each “PagbaBAGo” bag contains two notebooks, two pens, three pencils, a box of crayons, a sharpener, an eraser, a ruler, a plastic envelope, a raincoat, a bag tag, resealable plastic and dental kits, a toothbrush, and toothpaste. (Photo courtesy of OVP) MANILA – Vice President Sara Duterte on Friday led the nationwide simultaneous distribution of “PagbaBAGo” bags to alleviate the impacts of financial challenges among Filipinos by providing basic school needs. In a statement, the Office of the Vice President (OVP) said at least 3,500 bags were given to Grade 1 to Grade 4 learners nationwide. Each [...]
PCA eyes host country agreement with PH
POSSIBLE AGREEMENT. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Permanent Court of Arbitration Secretary General Marcin Czepelak hold a meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Thursday (Aug. 29, 2024). During the meeting, Czepelak expressed his intent to establish a host country agreement with the Philippines. (Photo from the Presidential Communications Office) MANILA – Permanent Court of Arbitration Secretary General Marcin Czepelak on Thursday expressed his intent to forge a host country agreement with the Philippines to facilitate the international court's hearings in the country. Czepelak pitched the plan during his courtesy call on President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañan Palace in Manila, Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said in a statement. “Czepelak expressed interest in exploring the potential for establishing a Host Country Agreement with the Philippines [...]
PH Coast Guard receives uncrewed surface vessel, first in SEA
An uncrewed surface vessel (USV) from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s Global Maritime Crime Program is on display at the Philippine Coast Guard headquarters in Port Area, Manila on Friday, August 30, 2024. (PHOTO FROM THE PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD) MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) became the first maritime security organization in Southeast Asia to have an uncrewed surface vessel (USV), making it more equipped to collect data from the skies and the sea. This breakthrough comes after the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s (UNODC) Global Maritime Crime Program (GMCP) turned over a USV to the PCG. A turnover ceremony was supposed to be held at PCG headquarters in Manila on Friday, but it was canceled due to a conflict of [...]
CA extends freeze order on Quiboloy assets till Feb. 2025
Pastor Apollo Quiboloy The Court of Appeals has extended its freeze order on the bank accounts and properties of Kingdom of Jesus Christ founder Apollo Quiboloy until February 2025. The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) said in a statement sent to GMA News Online that the CA issued the resolution extending the freeze order on August 20. The appellate court issued a 20-day freeze order last August 6 against the fugitive pastor’s 10 bank accounts, seven real properties, five motor vehicles, and one aircraft. Meanwhile, 29 members of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC)are facing obstruction of justice and direct assault complaints after 60 police officers were hurt implementing the arrest warrants against Quiboloy, the Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 said yesterday PRO 11 spokesperson Police Major Catherine [...]
China, PH ships collided near Escoda Shoal —Chinese exec
Screengrab from Chinese Coast Guard video A China Coast Guard (PCG) vessel and a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship had a collision near Escoda Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) on Monday, according to a Chinese official In a statement posted on social media platform Weibo, CCG spokesperson Gan Yu alleged that PCG vessels BRP Bagacay and BRP Cape Engaño “illegally entered” the area without permission from China. The Chinese official also accused BRP Bagacay of “deliberately” colliding with a CCG vessel. “At 03:24, the Philippine ship No. 4410 (BRP Bagacay) ignored China's repeated solemn warnings and deliberately collided with China's 21551 boat, which was normally safeguarding its rights and enforcing the law in an unprofessional and dangerous manner, resulting in a collision,” Gan said. Gan [...]
Med groups to hold protest at PGH to Philhealth funds transfer
Medical groups opposed to the transfer of Philhealth’s unused funds will hold a protest rally today at the Philippine General Hospital. Representatives from Healthcare Professionals Alliance Against COVID-19 (HPAAC), healthcare professional organizations and medical societies will gather at the Guazon Hall, Philippine General Hospital to press the Department of Finance to stop the transfer of the funds on August 21. Former Department of Health (DOH) consultant Dr. Anthony Leachon said the second tranche of funds from Philhealthworth PhP10B will be transferred to the National Treasury on August 21. In April, the DOF ordered PhilHealth to transfer PhP89.9 billion of its unused funds to the National Treasury. Of the P89.9 billion excess funds, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said P20 billion has been moved to the national treasury [...]
Nationwide job fair to be held in September — CSC
The Civil Service Commission (CSC) will conduct a nationwide job fair from Sept. 2 to 6 for the 124th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA) celebration. The 2024 Government Job Fair is an on-site event aimed at providing individuals interested in pursuing a career in the public sector with an opportunity to interact with recruiters, exchange information on job vacancies, and submit applications and requirements to their selected government agencies. “The PCSA is a celebration not only of the CSC but also of all the government agencies and the 1.9 million civil servants across the nation,” said CSC Chairperson Karlo Nograles. “Through the 2024 Government Job Fair, we are opening doors to a new batch of dedicated individuals who are eager to serve the public, ensuring that we continue to [...]
PH: Double time on repatriation
DANGER ZONE. Smoke billows from the site of an Israeli strike that targeted the outskirts of the southern Lebanese village of Kfar Hamam last Saturday, amid ongoing cross-border clashes between Israeli troops and Hezbollah. International mediators have been trying to reach a Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas Palestinian militants, which diplomats say could help to avert a wider war in which Lebanon would be on the front line. Inset photo shows 15 Filipinos including three children who arrived in Manila after opting for voluntary repatriation from Lebanon. AFP/DMW FB page 15 Filipinos leave Lebanon as conflict between Israel, Hezbollah worsens — DFA The Philippine government is working to get more Filipinos out of Lebanon as the armed conflict between Israeli forces and the Hezbollah paramilitary group [...]
Marcos issues EO increasing salaries, benefits of gov’t employees
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivers a speech during the oath-taking of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Philippine Journalists–Samahang Plaridel Foundation Inc. in Malacañang on Aug. 2, 2024. Presidential Communications Office MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos has issued an order increasing the wages and granting an additional allowance to government workers, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced on Saturday. Executive Order (EO) 64, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on August 2 by authority of Marcos, is effective immediately upon its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation “Given the prevailing economic circumstances, including the erosion of purchasing power due to inflation, there is a need to update the salaries and benefits of government personnel in order to maintain a competent, committed, [...]
Illegal POGO workers deported number to 1,698: PAOCC
MANILA – Around 1,698 foreign nationals working in illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) firms have so far been deported, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) said Friday. (File photo) “As far as the PAOCC is concerned, 1,698 na po ang ating napa-deport magmula noong (about 1,698 have been deported since) May 4, 2023,” PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio said in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview aired over state-run PTV-4. Casio said the latest batch of deported individuals included 27 illegal POGO workers. He said the initial number of foreign workers to be deported was 33, but a hold departure order was issued against six of them because of criminal charges. He said the illegal POGO workers who have already been deported could no longer return to the [...]
DFA puts Bangladesh under Alert Level 1 over ongoing unrest
Department of Foreign Affairs The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has placed Bangladesh under Alert Level 1 as a precautionary measure in response to recent political demonstrations and civil unrest in the country. The Foreign Affairs Department has warned m the “security situation can deteriorate without warning.” There are approximately 700 Filipinos residing in Bangladesh Under Alert Level 1, the DFA advises Filipinos in Bangladesh to exercise caution, restrict non-essential movement, remain vigilant, monitor and follow guidelines set by local authorities, always carry valid passports and residence visas, and register their details with the Philippine Embassy in Dhaka. For emergencies, Filipino nationals in Bangladesh can contact the Philippine Embassy through the following channels: • Email: dhaka.pe@dfa.gov.ph • Emergency hotlines: (+880) 190.540.0079 (SMS, Calls, WhatsApp & Viber) • Facebook/Messenger: [...]
Philippines, Vietnam to hold South China Sea exercises
This handout photo taken on March 23, 2024 and released by the Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (PCG/BFAR) on March 25, 2024 shows an aerial view of BRP Datu Pagbuaya as it sails from the Philippine-held Thitu Island sheltered port, in the Spratly Islands, in the disputed South China Sea. HANOI, Vietnam — A Vietnamese coast guard vessel is en route to the Philippines for joint training exercises, Hanoi said, the first such exchange between the countries in dispute with Beijing over the South China Sea. Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea but the Philippines, Vietnam and several other nations claim various islands, islets, reefs and shoals in the crucial strategic waterway. In a January visit to Vietnam by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, the two [...]
11 roasted in early morning Binondo fire
Philippine Red Cross / X Eleven persons died when a fire hit a residential-commercial area on Friday morning in Binondo, Manila. Based on the initial report of the Manila Bureau of Fire Protection, the incident started at 7:20 a.m. at a canteen situated at the fourth floor of a building on Carvajal Street. It was learned from the report that the blaze was caused by a liquified petroleum gas (LPG) leak. The blaze was declared fire out at 10:04 a.m. of the same day. According to Kagawad Nelson Ty of Barangay 289, the 11 victims were trapped inside the building. Meanwhile, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna quickly responded by mobilizing the Manila Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) to assist the families of the fire victims and provide [...]
More Damaged Schools To Delay Start Of Classes – DepEd
An estimated P630 million is needed to reconstruct the school infrastructure damaged by Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon. A volunteer and barangay worker assist in drying the school desks and chairs covered by mud at Malanday National High School in Marikina on July 27, 2024. Photo by Walter Bollozos, The Philippine STAR A total of 1,002 public schools nationwide cannot push through with the opening of classes on Monday due to damage and other adverse impacts of Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon that hit the country last week, the Department of Education (DepEd) said. “The 1,002 schools mentioned will postpone their openings on July 29, for clean-up and rehabilitation activities. Flood-free schools with minimal damage will open as scheduled to avoid disrupting the education of our young [...]
US, Japan hit out at China and Russia
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (2nd L) and US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin (L) pose with Japan's Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa (2nd R) and Japan's Defense Minister Minoru Kihara (R) at the start of the "Foreign and Defense Ministerial (2+2) Meeting" at the Iikura Guest House in Tokyo on July 28, 2024. (Photo by David Mareuil / POOL / AFP) Tokyo, Japan—The United States and Japan hit out Sunday at Beijing’s “destabilizing actions” in the South China Sea while also condemning Russia’s growing military cooperation with China and North Korea, following high-level talks in Tokyo. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and their Japanese counterparts “reiterated their strong objections to the PRC’s unlawful maritime claims, militarization of reclaimed features, and threatening and [...]
Drainage capacity, overpopulation blamed for Metro Manila flooding
Residents from Bulelak Street in Malanday, Marikina City carry their pets, children, and belongings as they evacuate after the Marikina River breached the third alarm due to #CarinaPH and the southwest monsoon on July 24, 2024. MANILA, Philippines — Metro Manila’s overpopulation and the overcapacity of its urban drainage systems are to blame for the perennial flooding problem in the National Capital Region, an official of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said yesterday. DPWH Undersecretary Cathy Cabral told the Saturday news forum that Metro Manila has exceeded its carrying capacity of water largely contributing to the recent extreme flooding during the onslaught of habagat and the tropical cyclones Carina and Butchoy. She emphasized the need to decentralize economic activity to prevent overburdening urban centers, giving Metro [...]
China Embassy, group donate relief goods to typhoon victims in Manila
RELIEF OPS. Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian leads the relief drive for Typhoon Carina victims in Tondo, Manila on Saturday (July 27, 2024). The Chinese Embassy and the Philippine Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. donated PHP3.5 million worth of relief goods to families affected by the onslaught of southwest monsoon and Super Typhoon Carina. (Photo courtesy of Chinese Embassy in Manila) MANILA – The Chinese Embassy in Manila and the Philippine Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. donated on Saturday PHP3.5 million worth of relief goods to families affected by the onslaught of the southwest monsoon and Super Typhoon Carina in Manila. The Embassy said at least 3,500 relief packages were given to the beneficiary families during the donation drive. Each package contains rice, canned [...]
Infrastructure spending hits P136 billion in May
Workers are seen at a construction site of MRT 7 station along Commonwealth in Quezon City on June 28, 2024. STAR / Michael Varcas MANILA, Philippines — The Marcos administration jacked up its infrastructure spending in May by more than 31 percent to P136 billion primarily to fund the construction of roads, bridges and other buildings, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said. Based on the latest national government disbursement performance report of the DBM, state infrastructure expenditure and other capital outlays jumped by 31.4 percent to P136.4 billion in May from P103.8 billion in the same period last year. The DBM attributed this mainly to the more significant disbursements of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the construction of roads, bridges, flood control structures, [...]
BI orders POGOs to downgrade visas of foreign workers
Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Norman Tansingco on Sunday, July 28, ordered all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) to downgrade the visas of their foreign workers who should leave within 59 days from receipt of the directive. In a statement, Tansingco reminded that President Marcos in his State of the Nation Address (SONA) last Monday, July 22, instructed the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to have all POGO operations ceased by the end of this year. “Companies are expected to comply with this directive and file for the downgrading of their employees’ visas, who shall then leave the country within 59 days from the date of the downgrading order,” Tansingco said. Tansingco expects more than 20,000 foreigners working with POGOs to leave the country in the following months. [...]
OCTA: 83% of Filipinos back ban on POGOs; 85% support anti-online gaming political candidates
Most Filipinos support a nationwide ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOS), based on the OCTA Research’s Second Quarter of 2024 “Tugon ng Masa” survey conducted from June 26 to July 1. The survey results released on Sunday, July 28, revealed that 83 percent of Filipinos support a nationwide ban on POGOs, while only 12 percent oppose the measure. Among major areas, OCTA said Balance Luzon, or Luzon outside Metro Manila, has the highest agreement rating for banning POGOs, at 90 percent Meanwhile, the National Capital Region has the highest disagreement rating, with 20 percent opposed to the ban. Regarding socioeconomic class, OCTA said Class D has the highest agreement rating for banning POGOs, at 85 percent, while Class ABC has the highest disagreement rating, with 19 percent opposed [...]
OVP to prioritize assistance in underserved areas
Vice President Sara Z. Duterte (PNA file photo) MANILA – The Office of the Vice President (OVP) will prioritize underserved areas alongside assistance to teachers nationwide. "Hinahanap natin iyong mga underserved na areas doon sa iba't ibang satellite offices natin. Syempre nandyan pa rin iyong para sa kababaihan, para sa kabataan, at para sa LGBT (Lesbian, Gays, Bisexual, Transgender), and senior citizens natin (We are looking for the underserved areas in different various satellite offices. Of course, there’s the [programs] for women, for the youth, for the LGBT, and our senior citizens," Vice President Sara Duterte said in a media interview on Thursday. She said they are planning to launch another program called “Lawyers for Teachers” under OVP. "Ngayon na hindi na hati ang oras ko sa dalawang [...]
Fishermen press govt for food, jobs
AN alliance of small-scale and subsistence fishermen on Thursday held a rally at the Department of Agriculture (DA) in Quezon City to call on the government to focus on providing the people with food and jobs, instead of allotting a huge budget for military spending. The members of Pangisda Pilipinas said the Marcos administration needs to address challenges in the agriculture and fishing sector to ensure the country attains food security. This can not be achieved if it continues to allot a huge chunk of the national budget to procuring military assets and prioritize its goal of solving the ongoing territorial disputes with China over parts of West Philippine Sea, they said "We are not belittling the West Philippine Sea issue, but this does not mean that our government [...]
Bong Go vows to question, probe PhilHealth fund transfer
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Friday, July 19 vowed to look into the legality of the purported transfer of around P90-billion worth of funds representing unused government subsidy for Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) back to the National Treasury. Go, chairman of the Senate Committee on Health said that as part of the oversight functions on the implementation of the Universal Health Care Law, he will be seeking answers from PhilHealth, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Finance (DOF) and Department of Health (DOH) on the propriety and legality of the transfer such “excess” funds which is supposed to help finance the government’s health programs “Simple lang naman ang mga tanong ng mga kababayan natin: tama at legal ba ang ginawa ng DOF at PhilHealth? Kung [...]
Gov’t to prioritize Pag-asa airport
WPS BASTION. An aerial view taken on March 9, 2023 shows Pag-Asa (Thitu) Island in the West Philippine Sea. As a Philippine Coast Guard plane carrying journalists flew over the Spratly Islands in the hotly disputed South China Sea, a Chinese voice issued a stern command over the radio: ‘Leave immediately.’ AFP President underscores ‘big role’ Palawan plays in nat’l security The development of an airport on Pag-asa Island is among the priorities of the government, President Marcos said Thursday. Pag-asa, the largest island the Philippines controls in Spratlys, is at least 285 nautical miles off Palawan. Mr. Marcos also said the military runway project at the Balabac Island airbase is nearing completion. Balabac is a town in Palawan strategically close to Chinese fortifications in the West [...]
Duterte leaves DepEd with ‘heavy heart,’ Angara ‘hits ground running’
MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte has no regrets running the Department of Education (DePed) during her two year-stint as she turned over the reins to former senator Juan Edgardo Angara who "hit the ground running" on Thursday. "In fact, it is with a heavy heart that I will leave the Department of Education, minahal ko itong trabahong ito, minahal ko yung mga kasama ko sa DepEd, so, mayroon talaga akong regrets, dahil gusto ko talagang tapusin ang deliverables ng (Ferdinand R.) Marcos (Jr.) administration (I loved this job, I loved my colleagues in DepEd, so I really have regrets because I would have wanted to finish the deliverables of the Marcos administration)," Duterte said in a chance interview with reporters after the turnover ceremony. Duterte said that [...]
Manila, Beijing elevate SCS emergency hotline
Department of Foreign Affairs The Philippines and China’s hotline on the South China Sea would soon be elevated to include the level of presidential representatives and top diplomats, the Department of Foreign Affairs said. The DFA said the recently signed “Arrangement on Improving Philippines-China Maritime Communication Mechanisms” would provide various “channels for communication” between the two countries, specifically on maritime issues. These avenues include one “through the representatives to be designated” by the Philippine and Chinese presidents. Another channel is between the DFA and the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including at the secretary (foreign minister) and undersecretary (vice foreign minister) levels or through their designated representatives “The DFA is in discussions with the Chinese side on the guidelines that will govern the implementation of this Arrangement,” it [...]
‘Habagat’ to persist over some parts of the country
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Saturday, July 13, announced that the southwest monsoon, or "habagat," may prevail over the western parts of Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao "Kung saan ngayong araw ay magdadala pa rin ito ng mga malalakas na pag ulan, lalong-lalo na yan dito sa may kanlurang bahagi ng Visayas at Mindanao (Today, it will bring heavy rains, especially in the western parts of Visayas and Mindanao)," PAGASA Weather Specialist Grace Castañeda in the weather report. Thus, PAGASA reminded the public to take precautions for the possibility of flooding and landslides in these areas. Meanwhile, despite not monitoring any low pressure areas, the state weather bureau is observing cloud clusters located in the western part of Palawan, outside the Philippine Area of [...]
China: US, EU should stop pushing PH from pursuing arbitration in sea row
MANILA, Philippines — China urged the United States and the European Union to refrain from encouraging the Philippines to pursue further arbitration. In a press conference on Friday, coinciding with the eighth anniversary of the arbitral ruling that favored Manila in its territorial dispute with Beijing on parts of the South China Sea, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said it was hypocritical to selectively apply international law with double standards. "This is hypocrisy, double standard, and selective application of international law. Second, the US and the EU disregard the history and facts on the South China Sea issue, act against the UN Charter, and misinterpret the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos) and other international laws," Lin said "Their position and proposition do not hold [...]
Gov’t urged to declare WPS ‘Victory Day’
Senator Risa Hontiveros The government must declare July 12 as West Philippine Sea Victor Day to mark the country’s historic triumph against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in 2016, Senator Risa Hontiveros said yesterday as the country marked the 8th anniversary of the arbitral award. Hontiveros’ call followed the approval of the Palawan provincial board of an ordinance that declares July 12 as “West Philippine Sea Victory Day.” Palawan Liga ng mga Barangay President and Board Member Ferdinand Zaballa, who authored the measure, said that the arbitration tribunal’s decision is a “resounding affirmation” of the Philippines’ sovereignty and sovereign rights in the WPS. “The ruling definitively settled historic rights and maritime entitlements in the region, rejecting claims that exceeded the limits set by UNCLOS. It [...]
Senate issues arrest orders vs Alice Guo, several others
Senator Risa Hontiveros resumes the probe on Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo’s alleged involvement in illegal Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs) on May 22, 2024 MANILA, Philippines — After skipping the Senate investigation into the alleged criminal activities of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), the upper chamber officially ordered Saturday the arrest and detention of suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo and seven other individuals. The arrest order was signed on July 11 by Senate President Francis Escudero and Sen. Risa Hontiveros, chair of the committee on women, children, family relations and gender equality. Guo was "ordered arrested and detained at the Office of the Sergeant-At-Arms until such time that she will appear and testify in the Committee, or otherwise purges herself of that contempt." "The Sergeant-At-Arms is hereby [...]
Makabayan bloc to field 12-member Senate slate
This photo shows Makabayan bloc lawmakers during a SONA rally. Makabayan bloc MANILA, Philippines — The Makabayan bloc will field a full 12-member senatorial slate in the 2025 elections, its representatives announced on Thursday, who also expressed willingness to work with non-Makabayan candidates with a "strong track record in standing up for the people." Branding themselves the "oposisyon ng bayan" (opposition of the people or the nation), the Makabayan coalition said its candidates will push for a comprehensive national program that will ensure progress for all, respect for human rights and national sovereignty. The Makabayan coalition is made up of five progressive partylists, namely the ACT Teachers partylist, Gabriela Women's party, Kabataan partylist, Bayan Muna partylist and Anakpawis. The first three have incumbent representatives in the House of [...]
Controlling inflation still the top concern for Filipinos – Pulse Asia
Inflation graphics. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO MANILA, Philippines — Controlling inflation remains the top concern for Filipinos, a polling firm Pulse Asia survey a month before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (Sona) showed. A report from Pulse Asia released on Friday showed that 72 percent of Filipinos feel controlling inflation should be immediately addressed by the administration, which is followed by increasing the pay of workers (44 percent), reducing the poverty of Filipinos (32 percent), creating more jobs (30 percent), and fighting graft and corruption in the government (22 percent). Controlling inflation was also the top concern across all locales and financial classes — 67 percent of National Capital Region (NCR) residents considered it as a top issue, along with 74 percent of respondents from [...]
NSA: PH firm on protecting sovereignty vs. encroachment, coercion
Philippine Navy ship BRP Sierra Madre (PNA file photo) MANILA – The Philippines will remain steadfast in standing against any territorial encroachments that undermine its sovereignty. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año made this assurance as Manila marks the 8th anniversary of the historic Arbitral Award on the South China Sea on Friday. "For the Philippines — notwithstanding the challenges we face —we will continue to stand our ground and push back against coercion, interference, malign influence and other tactics that seek to jeopardize our security and stability," Año said in his speech at the Stratbase ADR Institute's forum titled "The 8th Year of the Arbitral Victory: A Collective Pursuit of Maritime Security in the West Philippine Sea" at the Manila Polo Club in Makati City. "We will do [...]
VP Sara to skip PBBM’s 3rd SONA, names herself ‘designated survivor’
Courtesy: Inday Sara Duterte/Facebook Vice President Sara Duterte will skip the third State of the Nation Address of President Marcos on July 22, and “appointed” herself the “designated survivor.” “No, I will not attend the Sona,” Duterte said in an interview Thursday in Davao City. “I am appointing myself as the designated survivor,” she added. Lawmakers from both administration and opposition parties criticized the Vice President’s reference to the “designated survivor” — a US government official chosen to stay at a secure location during events where top leaders are gathered as a continuity measure in case a catastrophic event kills or incapacitates the president. Kabataan party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel likened her comment to a “bomb joke,” while Manila Rep. Joel Chua warned the security of the President is [...]
OWWA opens seafarers’ hub in Malate
SEAFARERS’ HUB. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) opened on Thursday (July 11, 2024) the Seafarers’ Hub in Malate, Manila. OWWA chief Arnell Ignacio said the hub is open 24 hours a day to all Filipino seafarers who are processing their papers. (Photo courtesy of OWWA) MANILA – The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) on Thursday formally opened the Seafarers’ Hub where Filipino seafarers can hang out while waiting for their documents to be processed. The hub in Malate, Manila, which is closer to most seafarers' agencies, will be open 24 hours a day to accommodate seafarers awaiting their papers or interviews, or undergoing training, OWWA chief Arnell Ignacio said during the opening ceremony that was also attended by Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac. Ignacio said [...]
Gov’t allots P10B in Calabarzon for PH development plan – Marcos
President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. (Courtesy: Presidential Communications Office/Facebook) President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday said the government had allotted P10 billion for the Philippine Rural Development Plan in Region 4-A (Calabarzon) from 2023 to 2024. The President reported the budget was allocated to develop major projects and programs to boost the economy of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon. “However, more than just these help and services, we continue to work to strengthen the economy of Calabarzon,” Mr. Marcos said. He highlighted ongoing projects, including the Taal Lake Circumferential Road, Lobo Malabrigo-San Juan Laiya Road, Quipot Irrigation Project, and Macalelon Irrigation Project President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday said the government had allotted P10 billion for the Philippine Rural Development Plan in Region 4-A (Calabarzon) from 2023 to [...]
Marcos formalizes rice tariff cut
MB File Photo/Mark Balmores The rice tariff cut was formalized through Executive Order No. 62 which also ordered the modification of nomenclature and tariff rates on various products to ensure continuous supply of goods and to protect the purchasing power of Filipinos. By issuing the order, Marcos acknowledged the need for a new multi-year and comprehensive tariff schedule that will provide transparent and predictable tariff structure. The new tariff schedule, he said, will also allow businesses to engage in medium to long-term planning to improve productivity and competitiveness, facilitate trade and enhance consumer welfare. “The implementation of an updated comprehensive tariff schedule aims to augment supply, manage prices, and temper inflationary pressure of various commodities, consistent with the Philippine national interest and the objective of safeguarding the purchasing power [...]
Another big-time fuel price hike looms next week
Inquirer file photo Manila, Philippines — The motoring public may brace for another oil price increase next week due to geopolitical conflicts, with industry players projecting close to P2 upward adjustments per liter. In an advisory over the weekend, Unioil said fuel prices would climb anew from June 25 to July 1. It said the per-liter prices of diesel may go up by P1.70 to P1.90.Gasoline, meanwhile, may jump by P1.10 to P1.30 a liter. The estimates from the Department of Energy (DOE) also showed hefty price hikes. According to the DOE forecast, gasoline prices may increase by P0.85 to P1.15 a liter. Increases in the per-liter prices of diesel and kerosene ranged between P1.55 to P1.85, and P1 to P1.10, respectively. “Relevant news for the week that push [...]
Human trafficking raps filed vs. Guo, 13 others
GUO RAPS. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission led by Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz and PNP-Criminal Investigation Detection Group file a human trafficking complaint at the Department of Justice in Manila against Mayor Alice Guo, Dennis Cunanan and 12 other for their alleged involvement in the Bamban POGO operations. Norman Cruz Human trafficking charges were filed on Friday against Bamban Mayor Alice Guo and 13 others in connection with the raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in her municipality. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) submitted the complaints with the Department of Justice against Guo and her alleged conspirators. Her co-accused include former Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC) deputy director general Dennis Cunanan, as well as 12 officers [...]
Ayungin clash not an armed attack, a ‘misunderstanding’ – Palace
Photo from Presidential Communications Office Palace says MDT invocation ‘not considered’ Malacañang said the attack on unarmed Filipino soldiers by China Coast Guard (CCG) and maritime militia vessels in Ayungin Shoal was a “misunderstanding” and does not require invoking a defense treaty with the United States. In a press conference held on Friday, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said the government does not consider the June 17 incident an armed attack. As such, the Philippines will not invoke its Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States yet, hoping the issue will be resolved after the National Maritime Council (NMC) laid out its recommendations to the President, he said. “We are not yet ready to consider this as an armed attack,” Bersamin told reporters when asked if Manila would ask [...]
Cavitex toll-free for 30 days
Construction of the CAVITEX C5 Link Segment 2 (R-1 Interchange). | PHOTO: Official Facebook page of CAVITEX / Google Earth Motorists using the Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (Cavitex) Project will be enjoying toll-free access for 30 days—a move President Marcos hopes will ease the impact of rising fuel prices on motorists. “With all of these, we are creating a nation where Filipinos may easily access and traverse our communities and have a comfortable and productive time as they do it,” he said. Marcos made the remarks as he led the groundbreaking of the Cavitex-Calax Link and the Cavitex C5 Link Segment 3B and the inauguration of the Cavitex C5 Link Sucat Interchange on Friday morning. He described these as “milestone projects” that will “transform the lives of millions of Filipinos” [...]
Leni Robredo urged to run for Senate in 2025
THE Federation of Free Workers (FFW) on Friday "strongly urged" former vice president Ma. Leonor "Leni" Robredo to run for the Senate in the 2025 national and local elections. FFW's call came after Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman announced that Robredo could possibly run for mayor of Naga City in Camarines Sur, a government position her late husband Jesse held before he was appointed interior and local government secretary. "The nation and the common good need more women representation in the Senate to ensure that diverse perspectives are included in the decision-making process at the highest levels of government," FFW President Sonny Matula said in a statement Former vice president Ma. Leonor “Leni” Robredo According to Matula, a former senatorial candidate under Robredo's slate in 2022, the [...]
Village official indicted over death of dog
Manila, Philippines —The barangay tanod (village official) in Bato, Camarines Sur responsible for the death of a golden retriever has been indicted, an animal welfare group announced on Friday. In its Facebook page, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) said this meant that the case was now "People of the Philippines vs Anthony Solares" of Barangay Santa Cruz. Back in March, PAWS filed a complaint against Solares before the Prosecutor's Office in Naga City over the death of Killua In a three-page resolution, Provincial Prosecution Service-Iriga Cityrosecutor Wilhenry Villar found probable cause for Solares to be charged with violation of the Animal Welfare Act. Villar likened the case to an 1855 case in the United States where lawyer-politician George Vest argued about pets being part of the family. "When [...]
8 Navy soldiers hurt in clash with Chinese
Maritime expert and Director of the University of the Philippines' Institute for Maritime Affairs and Laws on the Seas, Jay Batongbacal Guns seized, rubber boats punctured Chinese maritime forces injured eight Philippine Navy soldiers, one seriously, and seized their guns in a violent encounter in the waters surrounding Ayungin Shoal. The Filipino soldiers were part of a group delivering much-needed supplies to the crew of the marooned BRP Sierra Madre when their rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) was rammed by a larger Chinese vessel. The military confirmed the incident hours after the media broke the story. It was unclear however whether the incident was the same one wherein the Chinese rammed a resupply boat headed for BRP Sierra Madre “A Philippine Navy personnel sustained severe injury after the CCG’s [...]
VP Sara Duterte steps down as member of Marcos cabinet
Screengrab from the live stream of Vice President Sara Duterte's press conference on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. (Courtesy: DepEd Philippines/Facebook) Vice President Sara Duterte has officially stepped down as member of President Marcos’ cabinet on Wednesday, June 19, leaving the Department of Education (DepEd) in a leadership vacuum effective next month. In a press conference held at her DepEd office, Duterte confirmed she has sought an audience with the President to formally submit her letter of resignation. She did not discuss the reasons behind it. “Earlier today, June 19, 2024, I sought an audience with the President and tendered my resignation as Secretary of Education effective July 19, 2024. I have given my 30-day notice to ensure the proper and orderly transition for the benefit of the next [...]
PH warned about being US ‘tool,’ urged to ‘engage China responsibly’
Manila, Philippines — United States intelligence and foreign policy experts said America was just using the Philippines to create the conditions of potential conflict with the Chinaz even if it knew it could not fight and engage China and win. "[The US] is using [the Philippines]. You are a tool, nothing but a tool. And when the tool ceases to be useful, we will discard you," says one of the experts, Scott Ritter, during an online media briefing early Thursday morning (Manila time) at the US National Press Club in Washington. "It's high time the Filipino people pressure their government to start sitting down and engaging the Chinese government responsibly...[because] China is not your enemy. China is your neighbor. China is your friend," said Ritter, former [...]
VP Sara favors gadget ban during class ‘subject to exceptions’
Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte has said she agrees with a Senate bill seeking to prohibit the use of electronic gadgets and mobile devices within school premises during class hours. However, the public official said the gadget ban should only cover personal use, with exceptions made for necessary cases like educational and emergency reasons. “We’re okay with the banning of gadgets for personal use, (but) subject to exceptions. I understand and have read the draft that there are exceptions, particularly if the gadget is used for learning and teaching,” Duterte told the media in Davao City on Wednesday. Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian recently filed Senate Bill 2706 or the proposed Electronic Gadget-Free Schools Act. The said measure covers teachers and students from kindergarten to senior high school [...]
Despite the risks, ‘Atin Ito’ hopes to navigate West Philippine Sea frequently without fear
Photo by Danny Pata The ‘Atin Ito’ coalition is aware of the risks attached to the expeditions it launched in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), but co-convenor Emman Hizon said they hope more civilians can go on these kinds of adventures without fearing for their safety. “We want to normalize civilian missions to WPS,” Hizon told broadcast journalist Howie Severino in a recent podcast. The two talked about the intense preparation that went into the recent tension-filled convoy of the group in the disputed waters. The ‘Atin Ito’ coalition organized a flotilla of over 100 Filipino civilian boats last May to navigate the perilous WPS under the shadow of the Chinese naval might. Their mission was to assert Philippine sovereignty over the waters by delivering essential supplies to [...]
LGUs pressed to pass ordinance banning Pogo
FILE PHOTO: Local government units (LGUs) is being urged by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian to pass an ordinance banning Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos) within their jurisdictions. | PHOTO: Bibo Nueva España/Senate PRIB Manila, Philippines — Local government units (LGUs) have been urged by a senator to pass an ordinance banning Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos) within their jurisdictions. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday offered this unsolicited advice to local chief executives as recent raids sparked speculations that local leaders may have been allowing the operations of illegal offshore gaming firms. “Ang payo ko sa ating mga local chief executives ay gumawa na ng ordinance para i-ban na ‘yung Pogos ng mga local government units dahil malalagay sila sa alanganin ‘pag nag-operate itong Pogo sa kanila eh,” he said [...]
PH, US Marines hold tactical combat care drills
TACTICAL COMBAT CARE. Philippine and US Marine personnel join the "tactical combat casualty care" (TCCC) exercises at the Bonifacio Naval Station Grandstand in Taguig City on June 12, 2024. The Philippine Marine Corps said Friday (June 14, 2024) the TCCC is part of this year's Marine Aviation Support Activity slated from June 3 to 21. (Photo courtesy of the PMC) MANILA – Filipino and United States Marines medical troops have conducted "tactical combat casualty care" (TCCC) exercises as part of this year's Marine Aviation Support Activity (MASA), the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) said on Friday. In a statement, PMC spokesperson Capt. Marites Alamil said the event was held at the Bonifacio Naval Station Grandstand, Taguig City on June 12. PMC regular troops and reservists took part in [...]
Latest police attempt to arrest Quiboloy fails
Fugitive televangelist Apollo Quiboloy MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police has appealed to fugitive televangelist Apollo Quiboloy, who again eluded a third attempt by the police to arrest him on charges of human trafficking and sexual abuse, to surrender and face the allegations against him. The PNP simultaneously served an arrest warrant against Quiboloy in several of his properties in Davao City on Monday, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said at a press briefing in Camp Crame. While Fajardo could not immediately provide details, she said one of those properties included the Prayer Mountain in Barangay Tamayong. Quiboloy heads the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) sect, based in Davao City. “We appeal to Pastor Quiboloy… to turn himself into authorities so he can answer the charges against [...]
A first: China Navy holds drills within EEZ – AFP
This handout satellite image released by Maxar Technologies on March 24, 2024 and dated March 23, 2024 shows Chinese and Philippine ships in waters where the Philippines said the China Coast Guard blocked their supply vessel and damaged it with water cannon, during a Philippine supply mission near Second Thomas Shoal in disputed waters of the South China Sea. The Philippines said the China Coast Guard blocked a Filipino supply vessel and damaged it with water cannon on March 23, causing injuries near a reef off the Southeast Asian country. —Agence France-Presse MANILA, Philippines — The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy is conducting maritime exercises inside Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) for the first time, increasing to 146 the number of Chinese vessels, among them 22 [...]
146 Chinese vessels operating in West Philippine Sea, says PN officer
Chinese personnel onboard two RHIBs rush to take a food package airdropped by personnel of the AFP onboard two smaller rubber boats during a resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal on May 19, 2024. (Photo by AFP) A total of 146 Chinese vessels have been monitored in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) during the past week, a ranking officer of the Philippine Navy (PN) disclosed Tuesday, June 11. Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad, PN spokesperson for WPS, said 22 People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy ships, 16 China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, and 108 Chinese maritime militia vessels (CMMVs) were spotted operating in the country’s waters from June 4 to 10. This was more than the 125 Chinese vessels (11 PLA Navy ships, nine CCG vessels, and 105 CMMVs) monitored during the [...]
Marcos commemorates 2024 Independence Day with a message of unity and resilience
Photo from PBBM's Official Facebook Page On this year’s Independence Day, President Marcos underscored the public’s crucial role in the nation’s progress and sovereignty. His message highlighted the steadfast spirit of freedom in farmers, fishermen, teachers, and soldiers, noting their essential roles in sustaining the nation and protecting its sovereignty. “While the times may be different our struggles remain the same. Still, we continue to witness the true spirit of freedom in every Filipino who fights fairly in their day-to-day lives,” President Marcos said. “We see it in the resilience of our farmers and fisherfolks as they provide us sustenance. We see it in the dedication of our teachers as they nurture the minds of the future generation. We see it in the tenacity of our [...]
Unite, help each other – Sara
Vice President Sara Duterte called on Filipinos to unite and help each other as the country celebrated Independence Day Wednesday. "Ito ay isa ring paalala sa atin na ipagpatuloy natin ang pagtutulungan at pagkakaisa tungo sa isang matatag, mapayapa, at maunlad na bansang Pilipinas (This is also a reminder to us to continue helping each other and be united towards a strong, peaceful, and prosperous Philippines)," Duterte said in her short Independence Day message at the Rizal Park in San Pedro Square, Davao City. Independence Day, she added, honors the great legacy left by the country's forefathers who displayed true courage, bravery and patriotism It also recognizes all Filipino heroes for their sacrifices for the country's freedom and independence. "We not only celebrate our liberation, but also place emphasis [...]
Tangere May 2024 survey: VP Sara is still highest-rated gov’t official despite declines in trust, satisfaction ratings
Vice President Sara Duterte Despite consecutive declines in her satisfaction and trust ratings for the second month in a row, Vice President Sara Duterte maintained the highest satisfaction and trust ratings among top government officials this month. Based on survey results released on Thursday, May 30, Duterte received a satisfaction rating of 52 percent and a trust rating of 60 percent in the May 22 to 25 survey conducted by Tangere, a technology application and innovation-driven market research company. Tangere noted that the Vice President experienced a 2 percent decrease in her satisfaction rating and a 4 percent decline in her trust rating from March to May However, she continued to draw significant support from Mindanao with a trust rating of 66 percent and a satisfaction rating of 63 [...]
NLEX toll fee hike takes effect June 4
MANILA – Motorists traveling to and from the northern part of Luzon would have to pay higher toll fees by next month. In an advisory on Wednesday, the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) said it has approved the second tranche of the North Luzon Expressway Corp. (NLEX Corp.) consolidated petitions from 2018 to 2020 for periodic toll adjustments starting June 4. Under the new toll fee matrix, motorists traveling anywhere within the open system will pay an additional PHP5 for Class 1 vehicles (regular cars and sports utility vehicles), PHP14 for Class 2 vehicles (buses and small trucks), and PHP17 for Class 3 vehicles (big trucks). The open system is from Balintawak in Caloocan City to Marilao, Bulacan while closed system covers the portion between Bocaue, Bulacan and Sta. Ines, [...]
Covid FLiRT variants likely here – DoH
The highly transmissible Covid-19 subvariants called FLiRT could have entered the country, the Department of Health (DoH) said. In a statement, Department of Health spokesman and acting Assistant Secretary Albert Francis Domingo said the University of the Philippines-Philippine Genome Center and Research Institute for Tropical Medicine were doing sequencing efforts to determine the presence of such variants. "Whether or not sequencing shows variants flagged by global health agencies, the DoH assumes the flagged Omicron sub-variants are already likely here and notes that cases continue to be clinically mild and manageable," Domingo said. He added that they had yet to find evidence that the two variants cause severe to critical Covid-19. Several countries have reported spikes in the number of cases of Omicron subvariants KP.2 and KP.3, known informally as [...]
Church firm against divorce; Villar 8th senator opposed to it
Image by Tumisu from Pixabay Bill is ‘anti-family, anti-marriage, and anti-children’—CBCP The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines remained firm in opposing the proposed divorce law, warning lawmakers they are supporting a measure that is “anti-family, anti-marriage and anti-children.” “It’s a betrayal of their constitutional mandate to uphold marriage and the family,” said CBCP Spokesperson Father Jerome Secillano. The House of Representatives earlier approved on third and final reading the absolute divorce bill, but the measure is facing an uphill battle in the Senate. STRAW VOTE. An informal survey by Sen. Jinggoy Estrada shows an 8-7 vote so far against the divorce bill being shepherded by Sen. Risa Hontiveros in the 24-member Senate. The House has passed the measure with a 130-109-20 vote. On Wednesday, Senator Cynthia Villar [...]
Duterte highlights programs focusing on early childhood care
Vice President and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Duterte on Wednesday, May 22, highlighted the country's commitment to improving Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) programs. (DepEd/ Manila Bulletin) “The Philippines took on the Presidency of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Council (SEAMEC) in February 2023,” Duterte said in her speech. She emphasized the theme of the presidency, "Transformation through Learning Exchange: Building Resilient Systems as a Region," which aims to strengthen cooperation in education, science, and culture among member countries. To achieve this, Duterte announced the launch of SEAMEC 7-7-7, a series of seven programs designed to address the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Council’s (SEAMEO) seven priority areas in education — one of these areas is “achieving universal early childhood care and education.” [...]
PH confirmed anew in IMO ‘White List’
FILIPINO VESSEL. Passengers board the passenger vessel/RoRo St. Michael Archangel in this undated photo. The Department of Transportation on Wednesday (May 22, 2024) announced the country's inclusion in the International Maritime Organization White List, proving the status of the country's seafarers in the international stage. (Photo courtesy of MARINA) MANILA – The Philippines is included again in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) White List, signifying that seafarers trained and certified in the country meet rigorous standards set by the IMO Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention. This came after the IMO Maritime Safety Committee said the country has fully complied with the relevant provisions of the STCW Convention. In a statement on Wednesday, DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said the inclusion is aligned with the administration’s [...]
DOH: 55 new cases of HIV reported daily
The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday said 55 new cases of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are being reported daily. DOH chief Teodoro Herbosa, in an interview, expressed concerns over the growing number of daily HIV cases. “Our new cases are high, at 55 new cases a day, we have the highest in the world. That’s why we need to stop,” Herbosa said. Herbosa pointed out that the majority of the new HIV cases in the country were younger individuals, who are said to be more “experimental” and more exposed to the internet. “The ones that are being diagnosed are as young as 15 years, and positive for HIV,” Herbosa Herbosa, moreover, stressed that the DOH is coordinating with the Department of Education to educate [...]
PH 2+2 meets with Japan, US expected in Q3
MANILA – The Philippine government is expected to convene two foreign and defense ministerial dialogues or 2+2 meetings with Japan and the United States in the third quarter of 2024. In a lunch meeting in Manila, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo confirmed that his counterparts Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will conduct an official visit to the Philippines in the coming weeks. “We’re planned to have meetings with Japan on a 2+2… And also, there’s a possibility of a Philippine-US 2+2 meeting, this is also standard,” he told reporters. There is no specific date set yet, but the US-Philippines 2+2 is currently being planned in July or August. The date for the Japan-Philippines 2+2 is likewise yet to be finalized but Tokyo-based [...]
Hontiveros welcomes divorce bill’s progress at House: ‘Sana all!’
Sen. Risa Hontiveros | PHOTO: Bibo Nueva España/Senate PRIB Manila, Philippines — Senator Risa Hontiveros gladly received news on the divorce bill’s progress at the House of Representatives. “Sana (I hope) all!” she said, reacting to House lawmakers’ approval of House Bill (HB) No. 9348, or the proposed Absolute Divorce Act, on the second reading on Wednesday.Hontiveros then vowed “to continue to work in the Senate to pass [the] necessary though contentious legislation, despite the challenges we face.” “Panahon na [para] bigyan ng second chance sa pag-ibig at buhay ang mga Pilipinong babae, lalaki, bata, at pamilyang nangangailangan nito,” the chair of the Senate committee on women told reporters in a message on Thursday. (It’s time to give Filipino women, men, children, and families who need it a second [...]
‘Atin Ito’ supply mission a success despite relentless China threats
Volunteers from the 'Atin Ito' Coalition and allied organizations. (Photo by Akbayan Party/via Facebook) The flotilla of boats carrying fuel, food, and other essential supplies for Filipino fishermen in Bajo de Masinloc is now wrapping up their “solidarity regatta” mission after its advance team made it to at least within 25-30 nautical miles (NM) of the reef. Organizers from the ‘Atin Ito’ Coalition reported on Thursday that although their second civilian supply mission did not sail smoothly as they expected, there were things that went according to plan. The advance team was able to slip past the China blockade situated at 40 NM of Bajo de Masinloc. The non-government organization, which was trying to assert Philippine sovereign rights over the area, said they spotted a Chinese Navy vessel [...]
Chinese Coast Guard Shadows Filipinos Sailing Toward Disputed Shoal
The convoy was expected to reach the area of the shoal Thursday morning, May 16, the organizers said, adding they would seek to avoid confrontations but were ready for any contingencies A Chinese Coast Guard vessels shadows fishing boats carrying activists and volunteers belonging to Atin Ito coalition as they head towards Panatag or Scarborough Shoal on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Photo by Miguel de Guzman, The Philippine STAR Chinese coast guard ships shadowed a group of Filipino activists and fishermen sailing on wooden boats toward a disputed shoal in the South China Sea which Beijing has fiercely guarded from what it regards as intruders. The Philippine Coast Guard deployed three patrol ships and a light plane to keep watch from a distance on the group of about 100 [...]
PH faces challenges in digitalizing healthcare – DOH chief
GLOBAL HEALTHCARE WEEK. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa looks at a graph at the Global Healthcare Week in Abu Dhabi in this undated photo. The event aims to bring global health leaders together to discuss the changes and challenges in global health. (Photo courtesy of the DOH) MANILA – The Philippines continues to face challenges in digitalizing healthcare, Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said. The country's geography is one of the factors, with nearly 60 percent of households still lacking internet access. "About 12 percent of Filipinos lack electricity, hindering digital technology use, especially in isolated areas," Herbosa said during his talk at the Global Health Care Week from May 13 to 15 in Abu Dhabi. Herbosa said infrastructure remains inadequate outside the National Capital Region [...]
Comelec bans candidate substitution due to withdrawal after Oct. 8, 2024
(FILE PHOTO) The Commission on Elections (Comelec) en banc on Wednesday banned the substitution of candidates after the last day of filing certificates of candidacy if the substitution will be made due to the withdrawal of the candidate, Comelec chairman George Garcia said “Unanimous po, pumayag ang ating Commission En Banc sa naging proposal ng inyong lingkod na wala nang substitution after ng last day ng filing ng candidacy, which is October 8 [2024], kung ang ground ay withdrawal ng candidacy,” Garcia said. (The Comelec en banc unanimously agreed with my proposal to ban substitution after the last day of COC filing if it will be made on the grounds of withdrawal of candidacy.) The filing of COC for the May 2025 midterm polls is scheduled from October 1 to 8. “Substitution is supposed to be allowed until November 15. Now, [...]
1 Atin Ito boat has engine problem but Panatag Shoal mission continues
One of the five main boats of the Atin Ito civilian mission to the West Philippines Sea (WPS) experienced an engine problem on Wednesday, according to organizers. The Atin Ito coalition said the pangulong boat has been fixed and continues to sail with the civilian mission. “The pangulong that had an engine problem was already fixed. It is still part of the civilian supply mission. All four pangulongs are committed to proceed to the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal),” the group saidAtin Ito said another pangulong boat was scheduled to participate only in the first part of the civilian mission and has already returned to land. Around 100 boats departed from Zambales on Wednesday to participate in the civilian mission, which aims to conduct a “peace and [...]
PH taps US space programs to monitor territorial waters
THE United States is helping the Philippines tap its space programs to monitor and document vessels in the country's territorial waters and exclusive economic zone, agencies from both governments announced on Tuesday. In a joint statement, the US Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs, the US National Space Council, and the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) said Earth observation is a priority area for bilateral cooperation. They agreed to consider the possible hosting in the Philippines of a US Geological Survey Landsat ground station. Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Maria Teresita Daza. AFP PHOTO The Philippines is also considering signing on to the Artemis Accords, which establish guidelines to ensure safety and responsible behavior in outer space as countries explore the Moon and beyond. The joint [...]
‘Hope for best, prepared for worst’: Scarborough civilian convoy starts
Small fishing boats assemble in the port of Barangay Matalvis in Masinloc town, Zambales, to participate in the civilian convoy in Scarborough Shoal. INQUIRER.net/John Eric Mendoza Masinloc, Zambales — The civilian convoy for the West Philippine Sea officially embarked on a voyage to Scarborough (Panatag) Shoal early Wednesday morning on a mission that may witness another attempt by China to disrupt the activity. Over a hundred fisherfolk, along with Atin Ito coalition volunteers, journalists, and foreign observers, all clad with life jackets, started to depart from the port here at Barangay Matalvis at 7:26 a.m. The journey was led by five indigenous mother boats called “pangulong,” where volunteers, foreign observers, and members of the media, including INQUIRER.net, are also aboard. About a hundred small fishing boats also participated [...]
PH deports 165 suspected scammers to China
Manila, Philippines — The Philippines said Wednesday it deported 165 Chinese citizens it accused of working in an online scam center based in the north of the country. The group was flown to Shanghai on Tuesday and forever barred from returning to the Philippines, the immigration bureau said in a statement. The deportees were among hundreds of employees, Filipino and foreign, rounded up by an anti-crime government task force in a raid of an office compound in the northern municipality of Bamban on March 14 The 165 were involved in "scamming activities" and did not have proper travel documents, making them "undesirable aliens", the immigration statement said. After the raid, the authorities said some of the workers were forced into it and "were controlled by having their passports confiscated [...]
Atin Ito’ sets sail for Bajo de Masinloc in ‘battle of narratives’ against China
Volunteers from the 'Atin Ito' coalition and allied organizations prepare for their voyage to Bajo de Masinloc on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. (Photo by Adia Lim/'Atin Ito') ‘Atin Ito,’ the non-government organization advocating for sovereign rights, asserted on Wednesday that China has already lost the battle of narratives concerning its actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This statement comes as the coalition officially starts its second civilian supply mission to Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Panatag/Scarborough Shoal, which is located 124 nautical miles west of Zambales and is within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Philippines. “China’s narrative has significantly faltered. It is running a very bad script,” said Rafaela David, president of Akbayan Party and co-convenor of the ‘Atin Ito’ coalition in response [...]
Marcos’ Partido Federal Unites With Lakas-CMD
Partido Federal ng Pilipinas and Lakas-CMD were part of the UniTeam alliance that supported President Marcos and his then running mate Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte in the 2022 general elections President Marcos looks on as House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Lakas-CMD president, and South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., Partido Federal ng Pilipinas president, shake hands after the signing of the alliance between the two political parties on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at Manila Polo Club in Makati City. The Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) led by President Marcos formalized its alliance with the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) on Wednesday, May 8, marking the revival of a UniTeam alliance for the 2025 midterm elections. Marcos witnessed the signing of the “Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas” between [...]
India calls Canada arrests over Sikh activist murder ‘political compulsion’
A mural features the image of late Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada [File: Chris Helgren/Reuters] Reacting to Indian nationals’ arrest, Trudeau acknowledges fear in Canada’s Sikh community but underscores ‘rule of law’. Canada’s investigation into alleged Indian involvement in the assassination of a Sikh separatist in Vancouver last year is a “political compulsion”, India’s foreign minister has said after three Indian citizens were arrested over the killing. Canadian police on Friday arrested the trio for the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, saying they were investigating their links to the Indian government, “if any”. He migrated to Canada in 1997 and acquired citizenship 18 years later. He was wanted by Indian authorities for alleged terrorism and conspiracy to commit murder, the allegations he had [...]
DND, NSC to China: No more lies
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., in a statement, called the alleged “new model” a “devious machination of China,” telling Beijing, “This charade must stop.” In a statement, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines said that the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command agreed to a “new model” on the management of disputes over the waters, which was also supposedly approved by key Philippine officials, belonging to the Department of National Defense (DND) and the National Security Council (NSC). China made the statement after the Philippines already denied the existence of any deal that would compromise the country’s rights over the West Philippine Sea. The embassy stressed that all “communication and negotiation on this subject matter is kept on record in every detail by [...]
Bank of America warns row with China may hurt PH economy
‘NOT ONLY SHOCKING BUT APPALLING’ A frame grab from video footage released by the Philippine Coast Guard shows its ship, the BRP Bagacay, being hit by water cannon from Chinese coast guard vessels near the Chinese-controlled Scarborough Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. Also hit on its way to the shoal was the BRP Bankaw of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE MANILA, Philippines — A further deterioration in diplomatic relations between Manila and Beijing caused by escalating tensions over the West Philippine Sea (WPS) could inflict some serious economic damage to the Philippines, according to the Bank of America (BofA). BofA in a new report flagged the potential impact of heightened tensions on Chinese trade, tourism and investments in the Philippines. It retained its [...]
Farmers’ group decries rice tariffication law, claims P44B lost
INQUIRER PHOTO/GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE Manila, Philippines — A farmers’ group has called for the complete repeal of the rice tariffication law, or Republic Act No. 11203, despite the efforts by the House of Representatives to amend it, asserting it won’t resolve the persistently high prices of rice in the country and instead demanded for the enactment of a “new pro-farmer, pro-people rice development program.” “Congress created the problem that is the rice tariffication law. Lawmakers cannot simply undo the problem by tweaking parts and provisions of the despicable law,” Danilo Ramos, chair of the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP), said in a statement on Sunday. According to KMP, the law has led to more than P344 billion in economic losses for rice farmers by clipping the powers of [...]
Book board reaches out to readers
THE National Book Development Board (NBDB) has formed a unified network that gathers readership advocacy groups and individuals from all over the country to boost readership. Daniel Mariano, head of the NBDB Readership Development Division, said the National Alliance of Reading Advocates (NARA) is a platform dedicated to nurturing a robust national reading culture. Mariano said NARA will "form a mesh of various readership campaigns" through an online community. It organized regular milestone meetings and conferences on the state of readership in the country He said besides consolidating readership campaigns from around the country, the alliance shall also aid in the cross-media adaptation of Philippine literary works, the creation of fan-based markets and help popularize homegrown literary characters. "With the decline of readership in nonschool books, it is high [...]
PBBM forms inter-agency body to create master list of gov’t lands
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (PNA file photo by Joan Bondoc) MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the creation of an inter-agency coordinating council to consolidate the master list of all government lands to ensure optimal use. In his Administrative Order (AO) No. 21 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin on April 30, Marcos said one of the key strategies identified in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 to establish liveable communities “is the creation of a database containing a complete inventory of idle government lands.” “To ensure the efficient and effective allocation and utilization of land resources for the country’s national development goals, it is necessary to consolidate a comprehensive list of all government lands,” Marcos said in the AO. The coordinating council [...]
Route rationalization, modern PUVs, next steps in PTMP
MODERN JEEPNEYS. Golden Eagle Transport Service Cooperative unveiled its modern jeepney units that retain traditional designs at Araneta Center Jeepney Terminal in Cubao, Quezon City, on Feb. 14, 2024. The Department of Transportation on Wednesday (May 1, 2024) said the consolidation component of the Public Transport Modernization Program is now over, with route rationalization and the modernization of public utility vehicles as the next steps in the program. (PNA photo by Joan Bondoc) MANILA – The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has moved onto the next stage in its Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), the proper assignment of routes and the purchase of modern public utility vehicles (PUV). Jonathan Gesmundo, Executive Assistant to the DOTr Secretary, said the consolidation phase of the PTMP is officially over with no [...]
PBBM order to review minimum wage gets backing from senators
The Philippine Senate building. (PNA file photo by Avito Dalan) MANILA – The directive by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to regional wage boards to review pay rates in their respective areas earned the Senate's support on Thursday. “I am one with our President in calling for the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Boards to do a regular review of our minimum wages and for the National Wages and Productivity Commission to ensure that the boards do so,” Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said. But Zubiri proposed that a legislated minimum wage hike would be the best gift President Marcos could give to the workforce. He is referring to the PHP100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act which was recently approved in the Senate. “In tandem with this, I also [...]
DFA summons Chinese exec over water cannon incident
DOCKED. The Philippine Coast Guard's BRP Bagacay, which was bombed with water by the China Coast Guard while en route to Bajo de Masinloc, is now docked at Pier 13 in Manila South Harbor on Thursday (May 2, 2024). China’s aggressive actions, particularly its water cannon use, caused damage to the Philippine vessels conducting routine humanitarian mission to Bajo de Masinloc. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim) MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday summoned the Chinese Embassy of Manila Deputy Chief of Mission Zhou Zhiyong over another harassment of Philippine vessels conducting routine humanitarian mission to Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal. In a statement, the DFA said the Philippines "protested the harassment, ramming, swarming, shadowing and blocking, dangerous maneuvers, use of water cannons, and other [...]
Fish catch down since Balikatan – group
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr. signed Memorandum Order 17, which provided the guidelines for the issuance of certificate of necessity to import 25,000 MT of frozen pelagic fish for wet markets from Oct. 1 to Dec. 21, 2024. STAR / File MANILA, Philippines — Fish catch around Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal has decreased since the start of the Balikatan exercises, which may have prompted the Chinese to send more vessels to the area and continue harassing Filipino fishermen, a local fishers’ group said yesterday. “The bullying of the Chinese coast guard continues and their number increased right after the Balikatan,” New Masinloc Fishermen’s Association president Leonardo Cuaresma said in a radio interview. The 39th Balikatan joint military exercises kicked off on April 22, and will last until May [...]
Marcos tells Filipinos: Fight modern-day oppressors, uphold patriotism
President Marcos has called on Filipinos to rise against modern-day oppressors and uphold Lapulapu's legacy of patriotism that has been passed on for generations. Malacañang file photos Marcos said this as the country commemorates Lapulapu Day on April 27, the day he killed Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan at the Battle of Mactan in 1521. In his message, the President urged Filipinos, especially the youth, to continue embracing the ideals of Lapulapu and the wealth of the Philippine heritage as the country shifts to a "Bagong Pilipinas." "The challenge now for all, especially the youth, is to continue embracing his (Lapulapu) ideals and the wealth of our heritage as we realize a ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ that is built on the foundations of the liberty and freedom that he and all our [...]
Sara leads 2028 presidential poll
(UPDATE) VICE PRESIDENT Sara Duterte is the overwhelming choice for president in the 2028 elections, according to a survey by Oculum Research and Analytics. Duterte gained the nod of 42 percent of the 3,000 respondents ages 18 and above randomly selected nationwide by Oculum. Support for her was highest in Mindanao at 62 percent and lowest in Southern Luzon at 23 percent. She also got the highest support from respondents in the Class E socioeconomic bracket, with 44 percent, and the lowest from Classes A and B. TOP PRESIDENTIAL PICK IN 2028 (From left) Dr. Dennis Coronacion, Oculum chief political analyst; Dr. Racidon Bernarte, Oculum research head; and Felipe Salvosa II, moderator, present the results of a presidential survey to the media on Friday, April 26, 2024. The first-quarter [...]
Drought damage P4.3B; UN airs call to aid PH
CALAMITY Local technicians in South Cotabato assess crops wilted by the intense heat. The province was placed under a state of calamity on Friday. —PROVINCIAL DISASTER RISK REDUCTION MANAGEMENT OFFICE-SOUTH COTABATO PHOTO The monthslong drought caused by extreme heat and lack of rain has bludgeoned the country’s crop and livestock production, with damage rising to P4.3 billion this week, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA). In a bulletin posted on Friday, the DA said agricultural losses recorded on April 23 were higher than the P3.94 billion reported a week earlier. Rice was the crop most affected by the dry spell, accounting for 61.71 percent of the total damage, or 113,446 metric tons worth P2.71 billion from 50,511 hectares. High-value crops comprised 19.8 percent, or P869.34 million, of overall [...]
Marcos greenlights ‘MATATAG’ education agenda of VP Sara
PHOTO: BBM FB PAGE President Marcos approved on Thursday the proposed Basic Education Development Plan (BEDP) 2030 and the MATATAG Agenda of the Department of Education (DepEd) led by Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte. This developed following the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board meeting at the Malacañan Palace. Marcos did not object to the proposals of DepEd as he highlighted its importance to the country’s education system. “The [NEDA] board approves the adoption of the Basic Education Development Plan 2023 and MATATAG Agenda as a national policy and plan for basic education,” said Marcos, who also chairs the NEDA Board Duterte was present during the meeting to present her BEDP 2030 and the MATATAG Agenda of her department. The MATATAG Agenda comprises four [...]
Transport strike set for April 29 to May 1
Transport group PISTON on Saturday announced its three-day transportation strike from April 29 to May 1 in protest of the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program. The strike’s convergence areas in Metro Manila will include Agoncillo, Alabang, Anonas, Baclaran, Katipunan, Litex, Monumento, Novaliches, Philcoa, Sucat, and Taft. Members of labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) and party-list Bayan Muna are set to join the transport strike in solidarity as early as April 29 until it culminates through Labor Day demonstrations on May 1 President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier this month said there would be no further extension of the said program’s April 30 deadline for the franchise consolidation. PISTON deputy secretary general Ruben Baylon said although jeepneys that fail to consolidate beginning May 1 will [...]
1.7-M Pinoys affected by El Niño, agri damage at P3.9B
Some 1.7 million individuals have been affected by the El Niño phenomenon, which has resulted in close to P4 billion in damage and losses to the country’s agriculture sector. DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said the affected individuals are in Regions 2, 3, Mimaropa, 5, 6, 7, 9, 12 and the Cordillera Administrative Region. “The DSWD is distributing family food packs. This is part of the humanitarian response in areas affected by El Niño, especially for families experiencing lack of food due to severe drought,” she said. DSWD has already distributed more than P58 million worth of family food packs in the affected areas, Dumlao said. According to the Department of Agriculture, damage on rice crops accounted for more than half of the total losses or at [...]
Fight vs plastic: DENR to launch plastics collection competition among students on Earth Day
Earth Day Every Day Project, a plastics collection competition among students, will be launched by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) during the celebration of Earth Day on Monday, April 22. In a statement released on Saturday, April 20, the DENR said the project seeks to instill in young people the significance of recycling plastics and to promote an environmental consciousness consistent with scouting values The environment department said student scouts from the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) and Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) from various schools will bring the plastic items they collected including plastic bottles and plastic bags for a weigh-in at SM Mall of Asia. “The class with the highest volume of plastic items will win a prize,” the agency said. The [...]
PH rejects China’s claim of ‘new model’ in WPS
THE Philippine government, through its National Security Council (NSC) on Saturday, rejected China's claim of a supposed "new model" to deescalate tension in the West Philippine Sea based on its agreement with the previous administration. Security Adviser Eduardo Año and National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea spokesman Jonathan Malaya insisted that any "agreement" reached between China and the Philippines in the previous administration, referring to then president Rodrigo Duterte, if it existed, has been rescinded and was not binding under the administration of his successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. "The President has been very clear: This administration is not aware of any secret or gentleman's agreement, and if there was such done under a previous administration, the same has been rescinded," Año said in a statement [...]
Phivolcs logs 3 ‘short-lived’ phreatic eruptions at Taal volcano
FILE PHOTO: Taal Volcano looks serene in this photo taken from Tagaytay City on September 25, 2023. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Saturday, April 20, 2024, reported the occurrence of phreatic eruptions at Taal Volcano. PHOTO FROM THE TAGAYTAY CITY TOURISM OFFICE AND EVELYN GONZALEZ (UPDATED at 1:10 p.m., April 20, 2024, to reflect the latest information from Phivolcs.) MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Saturday recorded three “short-lived” phreatic eruptions at Taal Volcano. According to the state seismologist, their Taal Volcano Network (TVN) logged the first two “phreatic or steam-driven eruption events” from 8:50 a.m. to 9:12 a.m. “The events lasted more than 2 minutes and produced up to 350 meter-tall steam plumes that drifted West-southwest and Southwest. Alert [...]
Labor Day job fairs set in 94 sites nationwide
JOB HUNT. Job seekers line up at the Mega Job Fair of the Manila City government at the SM City Manila on Jan. 18, 2024. The DOLE said Friday (April 19) it would hold simultaneous job fairs in 94 venues across the country on May 1, in commemoration of Labor Day. (PNA file photo by Yancy Lim) MANILA – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is set to hold simultaneous job fairs across the country in celebration of the 122nd Labor Day. In an advisory on Friday, the agency's Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) said these job fairs featuring local and overseas employment opportunities will be held in 94 sites mostly in malls on May 1. "DOLE is presenting a huge opportunity for all jobseekers. We [...]
Marcos calls for PH-wide energy-saving measures
TIGHT SUPPLY For the second straight day this week, the NGCP placed the Luzon grid under yellow alert from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. and the Visayas grid from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m on Wednesday PHOTO FROM NGCP MANILA, Philippines — Electricity supply problems continue to hound Luzon and the Visayas as more than 30 power plants remain shut or are running below capacity due to intense summer heat being made more unbearable by the El Niño dry spell. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged the public to adopt energy-saving measures to cut electricity consumption as power supply problems continued to hound Luzon and Visayas on Wednesday after more than 30 power plants remain offline or operating at lower capacities. In a post on his Instagram account [...]
G7 calls out China over ‘intimidation, militarization’ in SCS
'DANGEROUS' MOVES. The civilian vessel Unaizah May 1 is harassed, blocked, and blasted with water cannon by a Chinese coast guard vessel while on a resupply mission to troops stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal on March 5, 2024. The Group of Seven (G7) on Friday (April 19, 2024) called out China over its militarization and “intimidation activities” in the South China Sea, particularly its “dangerous maneuvers” against Filipino vessels carrying out routine resupply missions to the Ayungin Shoal. (Photo courtesy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines) MANILA – The Group of Seven (G7) has called out China over its militarization and “intimidation activities” in the South China Sea (SCS), as it took note of Beijing’s "dangerous maneuvers” and water cannon use against [...]
Pagasa warns of dangerous heat index in 19 areas
(PNA file photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.) MANILA- The weather bureau warned of dangerous heat index levels in 19 areas across the country on Saturday. Based on the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration's (PAGASA) 5 p.m. forecast on Friday, the following areas may have a heat index ranging from 42 C to 44 C on Saturday: Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 44 C Bacnotan, La Union – 42 C Aparri, Cagayan – 42 Tuguegarao, Cagayan – 42 C Clark Airport (DMIA), Pampanga – 42 C Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas – 42 C Coron, Palawan – 42 C Aborlan, Palawan – 44 C Virac (SYNOP), Catanduanes 42 C CBSUA-Pili, Camarines Sur – 43 C Roxas City Capiz – 43 C Iloilo City, Iloilo – 42 C Dumangas, Iloilo – [...]
3 Pinoys died in unprecedented UAE flooding
At least three Filipinos have died amid the flooding in the United Arab Emirates, the Department of Migrant Workers said on Thursday. “With extreme sadness, we report the death of 3 OFWs during the flooding in UAE,” DMW officer-in-charge Hans Cacdac said on X. “Two OFWs died due to suffocation inside their vehicle during the flood. One other OFW died due to a vehicular accident. We shall provide utmost support and assistance to their families,” he added. Two of the victims are females while one is male, Cacdac said “The department assures the families of the three OFWs of its fullest support and assistance,” DMW said. The DMW said Philippine offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai were preparing to distribute relief goods and other essential items [...]
Solons eye Chinese presence in Cagayan
The Chinese embassy in Manila said: The unfounded accusation of our educational exchanges is yet another malicious sleight of hand to incite suspicion and hatred of China. Insightful people in the Philippines have not lost sight of this tendency by calling it ‘McCarthyism’ resurrecting in the Philippines. This deserves high vigilance and must be resolutely opposed. This came on the heels of a House Resolution filed by Cagayan 3rd District Rep. Joseph Lara for a probe into the alarming rise of Chinese students enrolled in higher institutions in his province in the northern tip of Luzon. “The Senate should look into the reported presence of Chinese nationals around EDCA sites. This is a national security concern that must be addressed,” Senator Risa Hontiveros said. Senate [...]
PBBM sees sustained peace, stability in SCS via PH-US-Japan alliance
STRONG PH-US TIES. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center, left panel) meets with United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III (center, right panel) at the Pentagon in Washington DC on Saturday (April 13, 2024, Manila time). During his meeting with Austin, Marcos emphasized the Philippines’ strong relations with the US. (Photo from PBBM’s official Facebook page) MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed optimism on Saturday (Manila time) that the Philippines’ trilateral alliance with the United States (US) and Japan would usher in sustained peace and stability in the South China Sea (SCS). During his meeting with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III at the Pentagon in Washington DC, Marcos said the result of his historic trilateral summit with US President Joe Biden and Japan Prime [...]
Phivolcs reports five phreatic eruptions at Taal Volcano
One of the four discrete phreatic or steam-driven eruption events, observed between 9:45 a.m. and 3:22 p.m. through the Taal Volcano Network (TVN) at the VTMC (Main Crater) observation station on April 12, 2024. MANILA, Philippines — Taal Volcano in Batangas exhibited increased volcanic activity with five phreatic eruptions occurring within a 24-hour period, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). In its latest bulletin, Phivolcs reported that between 12 a.m. Friday and 12 a.m. Saturday, Taal experienced five phreatic eruptions, with one event lasting for 13 minutes. A phreatic eruption, according to Phivolcs, is a steam-driven explosion that occurs when water, either below the ground or on the surface, is heated by magma, lava, hot rocks, or fresh volcanic deposits. During the same monitoring [...]
Dangerous heat index forecast in 9 areas
MANILA – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned of dangerous heat index levels in nine areas across the country on Saturday. Based on the weather bureau’s 5 p.m. forecast on Friday, the following areas may have a heat index ranging from 42°C to 45°C on Saturday: Laoag, Ilocos Norte – 42°C Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 45°C Aparri, Cagayan – 44°C Tuguegarao, Cagayan – 42°C Puerto Princesa City, Palawan – 42°C Aborlan, Palawan – 42°C Masbate City, Masbate – 42°C CBPSUA-Pili, Camarines Sur – 42°C Catarman, Northern Samar – 42°C PAGASA said heat index is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature. The weather bureau advised the public to limit the time spent outdoors, especially [...]
Malaria cases surge by 90% in 2023 – DOH
MALARIA MOSQUITO. Malaria cases nationwide increased by 90 percent in 2023, according to Department of Health - Disease Intervention and Prevention Bureau medical officer Kim Patrick Tejano during a press briefing on Friday (April 12, 2024). Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites transmitted through bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes on people. (PNA file photo) MANILA – Malaria cases in the country almost doubled in 2023 and the Department of Health (DOH) believes that climate change contributed to the uptick. Latest data from the DOH Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) showed that about 6,248 cases were recorded in 2023 or 90 percent higher than the 3,245 cases posted in 2022. Of these cases, 11 deaths were reported and still under investigation. "While the cases [...]
Fuel prices to rise anew as Gaza boils
The Department of Energy warned of another round of oil price hike next week by as much as P1 per liter due to the ongoing geopolitical conflict in the Gaza Strip. This will be the fourth consecutive weekly increase for gasoline and the second weekly increase for diesel and kerosene. The DOE estimates the increase at P0.80 to P1 per liter for diesel and P0.85 to P1 per liter for kerosene. Prices of gasoline may remain steady or go up by P0.20 per liter. ”Another round of increase is expected next week as a result of an intensified geopolitical concerns in Gaza Strip wherein Israeli’s airstrikes killed 3 sons of a Hamas leader. However, inventory build up of crude and fuels in the US tempered the oil price increase.(These [...]
2 killed in Navy chopper crash in Cavite – AFP
This photo provided by Police Regional Office 4A shows the Philippine Navy helicopter that crashed near Cavite City Public Market on Thursday morning, April 11, 2024. Two pilots were killed in the incident, according to the military. | PHOTO: Police Regional Office 4A PAMPANGA, Philippines — A Philippine Navy (PN) helicopter crashed near Cavite City Public Market on Thursday morning, killing two pilots, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said. “A PN Robinson R22 trainer helicopter conducted an emergency landing this morning in the vicinity near of Cavite City Public Market,” AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla told reporters in a Viber message. “The two navy aviators were rushed to the hospital for medical treatment but succumbed to their injuries,” she said. Padilla said families of [...]
DepEd Urged: Revert To Old School Calendar ASAP
The Department of Education eyes the full return to the old academic calendar in 2026, when classes would open in June. Additional electric fans have been set up inside a classroom of the Rafael Palma Elementary School in Manila on April 1, 2024, to keep students cool in the hot weather. Photo by Edd Gumban, The Philippine STAR The Department of Education (DepEd) must speed up the return to the old academic calendar amid widespread suspension of onsite classes due to extreme heat, teachers group Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) reiterated on Friday, April 5. In an interview with ABS-CBN News, TDC national chairman Benjo Basas said the reversion to the old academic calendar – where classes run from June to March and school break from April to May – seemed [...]
Peace, security top Tri-Summit agenda
OFF TO WASHINGTON. President Marcos waves to well wishers before departing for Washington, D.C., where he will join US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for the first Philippines-US-Japan Trilateral Summit. PPA POOL US, Japan, PH to assure freedom of navigation in WPS President Marcos on Wednesday flew to the United States to participate in a landmark trilateral meeting with the United States and Japan, which would also iron out the agreement between the three nations regarding peace and security in the West Philippine Sea. “This is essentially an agreement between the United States, Japan, and the Philippines on cooperation in terms of maintaining security and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. That is the essence of it,” the President told reporters before leaving [...]
‘No backing down from challenges’—PBBM
Marcos heads to Washington for tri-summit As the nation marked the Day of Valor, President Marcos on Tuesday said the Philippines “must not back down from challenges that seek to threaten its peace, honor, and very existence.” Marcos made the statement during the 82nd Commemoration of the Araw ng Kagitingan at the Mt. Samat Shrine in Pilar, Bataan, where he called on Filipinos to stand against oppression amid current challenges that threaten the country within its territory. The Day of Valor commemorates the heroism and sacrifice of Filipinos who fought in the Battle of Bataan during World War II. Meanwhile, the President is set to fly to Washington today (Wednesday) to participate in the historic trilateral leaders’ summit between the Philippines, Japan, and the United States. Mr. Marcos will [...]
Marcos hopes for unity amid diversity in Eid’l Fitr message
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (File Photo) MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called for unity amid Filipinos’ diversity in beliefs and philosophies as he joined Muslims here and abroad in the celebration of Eid’l Fitr or the Festival of Breaking the Fast. In his written message released by the Office of the President, Marcos emphasized the festival's significance for the spiritual renewal of Muslims after Ramadan's month-long observance of prayer, sacrifice, and penance. “Truly, the Festival of Breaking the Fast marks not only the culmination of Ramadan, but also the rededication of one’s journey towards a more disciplined, dignified, and gracious life,” Marcos said. “As you take to heart the insights from your devotion, may you become shining examples of humility, [...]
US, PH jet fighters in drills over Luzon
AIR Force pilots from the Philippines and the United States are set to conduct maneuvers over a wide area of Luzon during the Cope Thunder-Philippines military exercise that began Monday at the Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga. Air Force Public Affairs chief Col. Consuelo Castillo said that at least 12 US F-16 supersonic multi-role fighter aircraft and four FA-50s from the Philippines would participate in the reconnaissance and training maneuvers. A Philippine Air Force (PAF) C-130J cargo aircraft will join the drills. The first iteration of Cope Thunder this year, taking place in the Northern Luzon Intensive Military Training Area, Basa Air Base and Benito N. Ebuen Air Base, involves about 700 airmen and will last until April 19. Castillo said the exercise would focus on expert exchanges, [...]
Dangerous heat index forecast in 8 areas — PAGASA
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration warned of dangerous heat index levels ranging from 42°C to 44°C in eight areas on Wednesday. Based on the weather bureau’s 5 p.m. forecast on Tuesday, the following areas are: Dagupan City, Pangasinan – 44°C Bacnotan, La Union – 42°C San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – 42°C Puerto Princesa City, Palawan – 43°C Aborlan, Palawan – 43°C Roxas City, Capiz – 42°C Guiuan, Eastern Samar – 42°C Cotabato City, Maguindanao – 42°C Heat index is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature. The state weather bureau advised the public to limit the time spent outdoors, especially at noon, and drink plenty of water. Use umbrellas or wear hats and sleeved clothing [...]
AFP: Future multilateral drills depend on PH allies’ nod
MARITIME COOPERATION. The missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) is one of the three Philippine Navy ships that participated in the April 7, 2024 multilateral maritime cooperative activity of the Philippines, the US, Japan, and Australia in the West Philippine Sea. The AFP on Wednesday (April 10, 2024) said the holding of future multilateral drills between Manila and its allies would depend on the approval of these nations’ respective governments. (Photo courtesy of the AFP) MANILA – The conduct of future multilateral maritime drills between the Philippines and its allies will depend on the approval of the governments of these nations, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Wednesday. "Conducting MMCA (multilateral maritime cooperative activity) with allied countries in the coming days is feasible, provided that [...]
Inflation rises to 3.7% in March 2024 as food, transport get more expensive
(1st UPDATE) It is the second month in a row that inflation has risen since being on a downtrend for four straight months Manila, Philippines – The Philippines’ inflation rate rose to 3.7% in March, driven by higher food prices and transportation costs for the month. The 3.7% rate reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority on Friday, April 5, is higher than February’s 3.4%, but lower than the 7.6% recorded in March 2023. The 3.7% rate for March is near the top end of the government’s 2% to 4% target range for inflation. It also means that the inflation rate has risen for the second month in a row since being on a downtrend for four straight months March’s inflation rate was primarily driven by food and non-alcoholic [...]
Create heat risk action plan for workers, firms urged
SIZZLING. A worker does fencing work at the Alabang station of the Philippine National Railways on April 4, 2024. Companies are urged to adopt measures to mitigate the impact of sweltering temperatures on workers. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim) MANILA – A labor group on Friday urged companies to create a "heat risk action plan" in workplaces as the country continues to grapple with sizzling temperatures. In a statement, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) called on employers to come up with policies and practices that will protect the health and well-being of workers from heat exhaustion. "It is our shared moral responsibility, not only of workers who toil day in and day out not only at work but also in commuting to and from [...]
PBBM: PH will respond to actual sea situation
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Photo from PBBM's Official FB Page ‘They can’t cover our eyes, pretend nothing happened’ President Marcos said the Philippines needs to “respond to the actual situation on the ground” in the West Philippine Sea even as it does not seek conflict with any other country. “They cannot cover our eyes and pretend that nothing happened,” Mr. Marcos told newly appointed Japanese Ambassador to the PhilippinesEndo Kazuya during the latter’s presentation of credentials in Malacañang. He said as a matter of foreign policy and geopolitics, the most important thing is to find a way to keep the West Philippine Sea at peace. “That is what the Philippines will always work for,” the President said. Mr. Marcos is set to participate in a historic trilateral cooperation meeting [...]
CPD: Family planning key to achieving demographic dividend
(Photo courtesy of Commission on Population and Development) MANILA – The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) on Friday urged Filipino couples to observe and be educated about family planning despite the recorded drop of fertility rate in the country in the past few years, especially during the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. "Our prescription in the Commission on Population and Development is still family planning. The importance of planning when, where, how many ang gusto mong maging anak para makamit mo yung (children you want to have and achieve your) aspirations as a family," CPD Knowledge Management and [...]
PH to hold joint naval drills with US, Japan, Australia
(FILES) Philippine and Australian soldiers march in formation while a US marines V-22 Osprey hovers above during military exercise Alon (wave), a joint amphibious landing drill held at a naval base in San Antonio town in Zambales province, north of Manila on August 25, 2023. The Philippines will hold joint naval drills with the United States, Japan and Australia, two diplomatic sources told AFP on April 4, 2024, as the four countries deepen military ties to counter China’s expanding influence in the Asia-Pacific region. (Photo by TED ALJIBE / AFP) Manila, Philippines — The Philippines will hold joint naval drills with the United States, Japan and Australia, two diplomatic sources told AFP Thursday, as the four countries deepen military ties to counter China’s expanding influence in the [...]
Conserve water, public urged as heat, lack of rain drain dams
The government on Tuesday urged the public — especially Metro Manila residents — to conserve water as dam levels continue to drop due to the impact of the El Niño phenomenon and the dry season. El Niño Task Force spokesman, Presidential Communications Assistant Secretary Joey Villarama, said that while Metro Manila was not yet experiencing a water crisis, the water level of Angat Dam, which supplies more than 90 percent of Metro Manila's potable water needs, could drop further because of increased consumption, lack of rainfall and evaporation due to the heat "For now, we don't see that there will be a problem or that the Angat Dam will drop below the critical level of 180 meters, but as the temperature gets warmer, the household consumption increases, and of [...]
DOH reports 49 pertussis deaths, assures continuous monitoring
MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) continues to monitor cases of pertussis or whooping cough in the Philippines, as it logged a total of 49 deaths since the beginning of this year. As of March 23, the DOH has recorded at least 862 cases, most of whom are from Mimaropa (187), Metro Manila (158), Central Luzon (132), Central Visayas (121), and Western Visayas (72). Of the total pertussis cases, 79 percent were under 5 years old. At least 66 percent of these young children were either unvaccinated or did not know their vaccination history. Adults aged 20 and older account for only 4 percent of cases, the DOH said. "The DOH is cautious in interpreting trends as the number of cases may still change as there may be [...]
PBBM vows aid for affected Filipinos in quake-hit Taiwan
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (File Photo) MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. extended his sympathies to the people of Taiwan after it was hit by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake early Wednesday. In a statement posted on social media, Marcos also assured assistance to all the Filipinos currently in Taiwan. “Our hearts are with the people of Taiwan as they endure the aftermath of today's powerful earthquake,” Marcos said. “Rest assured, our Department of Migrant Workers is diligently ensuring the safety of the 159,480 Filipinos currently residing in Taiwan. We stand ready to assist and support our fellow Filipinos in Taiwan in any way possible during this difficult period,” he added. Taiwan was hit by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake past 7 a.m., the strongest [...]
Nine dead, 900 injured in most powerful Taiwan quake in 25 years
This photo taken by Taiwan's Central News Agency (CNA) on April 3, 2024 shows emergency workers assisting a survivor after he was rescued from a damaged building in New Taipei City, after a major earthquake hit Taiwan's east. A major 7.4-magnitude earthquake hit Taiwan's east on Wednesday morning, prompting tsunami warnings for the self-ruled island as well as parts of southern Japan and the Philippines. (Photo by CNA/AFP) At least nine people were killed and more than 900 injured Wednesday by a powerful earthquake in Taiwan that damaged dozens of buildings and prompted tsunami warnings that extended to Japan and the Philippines before being lifted. Dozens of people were believed safe but unreachable in areas cut off by massive landslides triggered by the quake—many in tunnels [...]
Backpackers of the Philippines conducts outreach program in Pag-asa Island
Backpackers of the Philippines conducted an outreach program to the residents of Pag-asa Island in Kalayaan, Palawan on March 26 to 30, 2024. Zcheeko Zacarias, one of the group's administrators, said that they had been planning the outreach program for two years, and they deemed this year as the right moment to execute it. "Seeing the genuine smiles on the faces of the people makes our efforts worth it. Although I had many chances to visit the island in past years, I decided that it would be best to bring our group and conduct the outreach together," Zacarias said. During the program, the group donated medicines, organized a feeding program, conducted storytelling sessions, distributed gifts, and arranged games for the children. They also provided programs for [...]
VP Sara vows prompt action on voucher issue
Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte has assured immediate action on the alleged discrepancies in the voucher program under the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE). Duterte made the response in an ambush interview on the sidelines of her engagements in Cambodia as the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) President on Thursday. Duterte mentioned establishing the Government Assistance and Subsidies Office (GASO) to look into the reported discrepancies in the billing issued by the private schools. “First of all, we are not issuing payments, we’re holding the payments,” she said. “Second, if it’s already paid and we see that it’s ineligible, either there’s a mistake or problem in the billing, we are asking for a refund [...]
Murder suspect Teves arrested in East Timor
Former Negros Oriental 3rd District congressman Arnolfo "Arnie" Teves Jr. (Photo courtesy of House of Representatives) MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed before midnight Thursday the arrest of ousted Negros Oriental 3rd District congressman and designated terrorist Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. in Dili, East Timor. The DOJ news release posted on Facebook said Teves was nabbed at the Top Golf Driving Range and Bar around 4 p.m. Thursday. Teves is facing multiple murder charges in connection with the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and nine others in March 2023, and three others in 2019. "We already confirmed that the mastermind of my husband's murder has finally been captured by Timor Leste police. Words cannot express how it feels to finally see the man [...]
PCG condemns fresh Chinese intimidation in West Philippine Sea
Filipino marine scientists on Pagasa Island’s Cay 2. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Coast Guard) MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Friday criticized China for employing what it described as “intimidation tactics” against Filipino scientists conducting research in the West Philippine Sea. Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, said Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) ships BRP Datu Sanday (MMOV 3002) and BRP Pagbuaya (MMOV 3003) were deployed Thursday to Pagasa Island Cay 1 and Cay 2, respectively. Carrying marine scientists, the two ships departed from Pagasa Island port at 10 a.m. and arrived at Cay 1 and 2 at 10:28 a.m.However, before arriving at Pagasa’s Cay 2, Tarriela said the MMOV 3003 experienced “dangerous maneuvers” from a China Coast [...]
DENR: All illegal structures in Chocolate Hills must be removed
Chocolate Hills (Photo grabbed from Department of Tourism Facebook page) MANILA – Environment Secretary Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said Friday all illegal structures built in the iconic Chocolate Hills in Bohol, which has been declared a protected area, must be removed. Loyzaga said this in an interview over a radio program after an aerial inspection she conducted with Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos. She said that aside from the Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort, which has gone viral on social media and received negative comments from netizens, they discovered similar structures illegally built within the protected area. “Sa palagay ko, sa nakita ko, yes po, kailangan, ito yung ginagawa namin ngayon, ang tawag namin ay mitigation approach sa mga gawaing ganito (From what [...]
‘Strong, mature’ El Niño now in country; Damages now hitting P1.3 b — gov’t
The damage to agriculture due to the dry spell induced by the El Niño has reached P1.31 billion mark, according to the Task Force El Niño. Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) said it was considering reducing the water pressure of concessionaires in Metro Manila due to the continuous decline of water levels in Angat Dam. The Department of Agriculture (DA) has also made the same observation, saying El Niño has caused at least P1.31 billion worth of agricultural damage as of mid-March Task force spokesman Joey Villarama said the country was still experiencing “strong and mature” El Niño. Villarama pointed out, however, that this year’s damage caused by the drought was less than previous figures. “We are anticipating that we have seen [...]
Creation of ‘Forward Operating Bases’ to protect WPS pushed anew
MANILA - Senator Francis Tolentino on Monday reiterated his call for the creation of a "forward operating bases (FOB)" in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and Benham or Philippine Rise amid the continued tension between the Philippines and China over the disputed waters. Tolentino made the call nine months after he filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 654 or An Act Institutionalizing the Philippine Navy Forward Operating Bases in line with the Philippine Navy Strategic Basing Plan 2040. The FOB, he said, is smaller than a main naval and operating base and would not require the same budgetary allocation as a regular naval base. Tolentino said FOB would only serve as an outpost strategically located near the WPS and the Philippine Rise. “SB No. 654 identified strategic [...]
Huge boost to production expected under Salt Industry Development law
INDUSTRY BOOST. Workers harvest salt at Borlongan Aqua Salt Farm in Barangay Banog Norte, Bani, Pangasinan in this photo taken April 29, 2023. The Department of Agriculture on Monday (March 18, 2024) said the passage of Republic Act 11985 or the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act will boost local production and income of salt farmers. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon) MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Monday said the passage of Republic Act No. 11985 or the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act poses favorable benefits to farmers amid efforts to boost local production. Among the key areas in the priority regions for implementation are Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Western Visayas and Zamboanga Peninsula. DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said the law enables [...]
McDonald’s to hire elderly, PWDs of Manila
MANILA – Senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs) of Manila will soon have a chance to work at McDonald's, an American fast-food chain. The city government of Manila entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the personnel provider of McDonald’s for the implementation of a program that would provide jobs for senior citizens and PWDs. The agreement was signed last March 12 by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna and J&F Food Corporation Training Consultant Sofia Loriega, with Vice Mayor Yul Servo Nieto and Secretary to the Mayor Atty. Marlon Lacson as witnesses, and Manila's public employment service office head Fernan Bermejo in attendance. In a statement on Monday, Lacuna said the program aims to re-integrate the senior citizens and PWDs as "productive members of [...]
PBBM meeting Blinken amid incursions in WPS
As Marcos downplays Xi orders for China to prepare troops BERLIN—President Marcos said he will meet with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken in Manila on Tuesday (March 19) as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation amid the ongoing incursions of China in the West Philippine Sea. “The first item I will be seeing [is a] meeting with Secretary Anthony Blinken on Tuesday,” Mr. Marcos told reporters in an interview before leaving for Prague Wednesday evening. Mr. Marcos arrived at the capital of the Czech Republic, the second leg of his Central Europe tour, at 6:25 p.m. Prague time (1:25 a.m. in Manila). The President also shrugged off Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent order to his troops to prepare for conflicts in the East and South [...]
Marcos signs new law for online passport applications in Philippines
File photo shows a man holding a Philippine passport. The STAR / Edd Gumban, File Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the "New Philippine Passport Act," designed to modernize passport application processes nationwide. The law aims to greatly improve accessibility and streamline procedures, especially benefiting senior citizens, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and individuals with special needs or exceptional circumstances, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Friday. The recently enacted law, signed on March 11, replaced Republic Act No. 8239, also known as the Passport Act of 1996. "The new passport law now authorizes DFA to provide offsite and mobile passport services in areas outside of the consular offices and foreign service posts (FSPs)," the PCO said. "The DFA is also mandated by the new law to arrange accommodations for [...]
1,500 exhibitors show innovation in construction, design industries
Hundreds of exhibitors in construction and design sector are joining the WORLDBEX 2024 from March 14 to March 17 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and SMX Convention Center. About 1,500 local and international exhibitors are showcasing the latest innovation in construction and design sectors during the Philippine World Building and Construction Exposition. The exhibit, organized by Worldbex Services International (WSI), started on March 14 and will run until March 17 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and SMX Convention Center. WSI founding chairman Joseph Ang said this year’s theme “Drawn to Ascendency” encapsulates the collective journey of WORLDBEX towards progress and innovation in the word of building and design. “WORDLBEX has become the cornerstone of innovation and collaboration within the industry. As we explore [...]
DOH warns public vs. red tide in 6 Visayas, Mindanao areas
MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday warned the public against consuming shellfish from six areas in the Visayas and Mindanao due to paralytic shellfish poison or toxic red tide. The DOH and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said the advisory covers all types of shellfish, including mussels or tahong, oysters, clams, and alamang sourced from the coastal waters of Milagros in Masbate; Dauis and Tagbilaran City in Bohol; Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur; San Pedro Bay in Samar; Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar; and San Benito in Surigao del Norte. "Bring patients with symptoms after eating unsafe shellfish to the nearest emergency room immediately. Prevention is the best: do not eat tahong, talaba, halaan, other shellfish, and alamang from [...]
PH eyes pharma-medical device ecozones within 2024
(File photo) MANILA — The Philippines is eyeing to launch the pharmaceutical-medical device (pharma-dev) economic zones within 2024, with four locations across the country already under consideration. At the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City, Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Director General Tereso Panga said PEZA is now in the site selection stage. “So, nasa site selection kami, establishment ng criteria. Mayroon sa Laguna, mayroon Bulacan, mayroon Tarlac, mayroon din sa Cebu (We’re now in site selection, establishment of criteria. There’s Laguna, Bulacan, Tarlac, and Cebu),” he said. In a separate interview, Panga said PEZA [...]
Nothing ‘legally wrong’ in Rody as KOJC administrator — lawyer
The former President, in a press conference in Davao City late Saturday evening, says only ‘stupid people’ would believe the claim that he is involved in any destabilization plot. Screengrabs from ANC, Facebook live There is nothing ‘legally wrong’ in the appointment of former President Rodrigo Duterte as administrator of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy’s Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) properties. In a phone interview Sunday, lawyer Ferdinand Topacio told Manila Standard that Duterte is now a “private person, a lawyer, and a member of the Bar in good standing.” On the other hand, he said KOJC is a juridical entity and a corporation sole, owned and occupied by a single person who appointed the former President, Topacio said He said almost all religious groups are corporation soles—or an [...]
Senate OKs Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act on final reading
The Senate has approved on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 2386 or the proposed Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act (RPVARA). With 23 affirmative votes, zero negative votes and zero abstentions, SB 2386 was approved by the Senate during its plenary session on Monday, March 11. The bill is another priority legislation of the Marcos administration Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said the enactment of the bill into law will provide a respite for taxpayers of real property tax as it sets a two-year amnesty on interests and penalties for taxpayers with unpaid real property tax. “Waiving the payment of interests, penalties, and surcharges on unpaid or delinquent real property taxes through the amnesty component of RPVARA would encourage tax compliance later on and significantly enhance the government’s [...]
Comelec, Miru Systems sign contract for 2025 elections
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and South Korean company Miru Systems officially signed on Monday the P17.99 billion contract for the procurement of a new automated election system (AES) for the 2025 National and Local Elections. The agreement covers 110,000 new automated counting machines; 104,345 ballot boxes; 2,200 consolidation and canvassing system (CCS) laptops and printers; ballot papers for 73.8 million voters; and ballot printing and ballot verification services. The awarding of the Full Automation System with Transparency Audit/Count (FASTrAC) project came more than two weeks after Comelec announced that it awarded the contract to Miru, the lone bidder for the project. Comelec Chairman George Garcia and Commissioner Rey Bulay led the signing with Miru President Chung Jin Bok. The election body noted that its joint venture with the South Korean [...]
Imee calls for restraint, more dialogues on WPS row
MISMATCH. A Philippine Coast Guard escort vessel (foreground) is blasted with water cannon by the Chinese Coast Guard during the rotation and reprovisioning of troops for BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal on March 5, 2024. In a radio interview Monday (March 11), Senator Imee Marcos on called for restraint and more dialogues amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea. (Photo courtesy of AFP Facebook) MANILA – Senator Imee Marcos on Monday emphasized the importance of upholding independent foreign policy through restraint and more dialogues amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). In a radio interview, the presidential sister said no one should bring up or discuss war and conflict. "Huwag tayo masyadong maanghang magsalita kung puros daldal lang. Eh mainam, tiisin natin kahit nakakapikon at [...]
FFCCCII launches coffee table book celebrating Filipino-Chinese heritage
Coffee table book. The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) launches its first coffee table book entitled ‘Dugong Tsinoy, Pusong Pinoy’ in Binondo, Manila. Leading the ceremonial turnover of the book are (from left) FFCCCII vice president Jeffrey Ng, book editor AA Patawaran, FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro and FFCCCII board member and public information and media committee chairman Wilson Lee Flores. The book highlights the contributions of FFCCCII and the Tsinoy community across various domains including trade, philanthropy, commerce, charities, economy, education, volunteerism by Filipino Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigades, calamity relief efforts and socio-economic reforms. The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) launched its first coffee table book entitled “Dugong Tsinoy, Pusong Pinoy” on March 8 [...]
E-bike ban on major NCR roads starts April 15 – MMDA
GET OFF FROM NATIONAL ROAD. An electronic tricycle (e-trike) traverses Recto Avenue in Manila on Feb. 29, 2024. Starting April 15, e-trikes, e-bikes, and other electric motor vehicles are banned on major roads across the National Capital Region. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim) MANILA – The ban on e-bikes on major roads in the National Capital Region (NCR) will start on April 15, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said Monday. "Walang bago dito. I-eenforce na po ng MMDA ang prohibitions na ito dahil marami na tayo nakikitang insidente ng aksidente, paglabag sa mga traffic rules and regulations at 'di na po natin aantayin na dumami pa at lumala pa ang sitwasyon bago tayo kumilos (There is nothing new in this regulation. The MMDA will enforce the [...]
Standard Insurance joins DENR’s ‘Adopt-an-Estero’ program in Cavite
NAIC, Cavite—Standard Insurance, one of the leading insurers in the country, joined the “Adopt-an-Estero/Waterbody” program of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). “We are dedicated to the adoption of the rivers, actively advocating for their cleanliness and preservation. Our efforts will be directed towards enhancing the rivers’ health and ensuring the sustainability of their surrounding ecosystems,” said Standard Insurance Co. Inc. chairman Ernesto Echauz Adopt-an-Estero/Waterbody is one of DENR’s priority programs being implemented nationwide through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB). Private company partners commit to enhancing the environment of the waterway they’ve chosen to adopt under the program. This involves various initiatives such as routine cleanup endeavors, dredging, educational campaigns, community engagement efforts and training sessions for relevant stakeholders. Standard Insurance adopted the Kay-Alamang [...]
Metro Manila Subway on track for 2029 partial ops
MANILA – The first contract package (CP101) of the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) is 40 percent complete and is on track for partial operations by 2029, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Thursday. In a press conference following a site visit and launch of tunnel boring machine (TBM) 4 at the MMSP’s North Avenue Station, DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said the project’s on-time completion would mostly depend on resolving right-of-way (ROW) issues. To date, he said some properties where stations are located are owned by private individuals, in addition to a Department of Education (DepEd) building that cannot be demolished due to its status as a heritage site. “Meron din issues like property owners na ayaw nila 'yung MMSP dumaan sa ilalim ng kanilang property (There are also [...]
Palawan tourism expected to sustain growth this year — business chamber
Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce Palawan Chapter chairman Pan Ming Yuan PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan—Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce Palawan Chapter chairman Pan Ming Yuan expects tourism in this province to sustain its growth this year as the economy continuously recovers from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. International visitor arrivals in the Philippines reached 5.45 million in 2023, which surpassed the target of 4.8 million set by the Department of Tourism. “Hotels and beach resorts are very good investments in the province,” said Pan, who is also the chairman of Filipino-Chinese Amity Club in Palawan Pan expressed hope the government would provide more assistance for the promotion of tourism such as the construction of roads and bridges to reach the remote tourism sites and providing lower water [...]
Research council assures support for Filipino inventions
Filipino scientists (Photo courtesy of Department of Science and Technology) MANILA – The National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) on Thursday said it supports the discoveries and inventions of Filipino scientists nationwide. “In fact, sa kasalukuyan, ang pinopondohan namin ay ‘yung basic research. Pagdating sa application, may iba’t ibang ahensiya sa pamahalaan na iyan ang trabaho (currently, we fund the basic research. When it comes to application, there are different government agencies taking care of that),” NRCP Executive Director Dr. Bernardo Sepeda said in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview over PTV4. He noted that the Department of Science and Technology conducts and funds research. “Upang, halimbawa, ang DILG [Department of the Interior and Local Government], ang DICT [Department of Information and Technology] o kaya even ang [...]
BDO to discontinue old banking app for iOS users on March 12
BDO Unibank Inc., the largest lender in the Philippines owned by the Sy family, said Friday it will discontinue its old banking app for Apple/iOS users starting March 12, 2024. The bank said in an advisory Apple/iOS users should download and switch to its new app for better access to the bank’s services. The new app has more upgraded features compared to the old one, it said It will allow users view and manage all their BDO accounts in an all-new interface. The app will automatically display all the active personal accounts of the users. BDO said it created a FAQ page to address user inquiries, which include steps to reset password, retrieve username and registration. BDO is a comprehensive universal bank in the Philippines that offers [...]
US court unseals arrest warrants for Quiboloy
STILL WANTED. This file photo shows the ‘Wanted’ poster issued by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation last year for Kingdom of Jesus Christ church founder Apollo Quiboloy, who is facing sex trafficking and other charges in a California court. A California judge has ordered the unsealing of the arrest warrants against Kingdom of Jesus Christ church founder Apollo Quiboloy and his co-accused, bringing the case a step closer toward extraditing the pastor, who is wanted by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation, a New York-based lawyer said. Central District of California Judge Terry Hatter Jr. ordered the unsealing of the arrest warrants issued against Quiboloy and threeother accused for charges of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud, coercion, sex trafficking of [...]
PH to continue WPS operations
OPERATIONS in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) will continue despite increasing harassment from China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels and their maritime militia, the chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Command said Thursday. "Our operations in the WPS will continue, along with our patrols and along with the exercise of our sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction," Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos said in Filipino, saying that the troops were "undeterred" and would not yield Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Westerm Command Chief, speaks during an interview with the media at a port in Palawan on March 6, 2024. The Philippines said on March 5 that China Coast Guard vessels caused two collisions with Philippine boats and water cannoned one of them, leaving four [...]
2 Filipino seafarers killed in Houthi attack
(UPDATE) THE government on Thursday confirmed the death of two Filipino seafarers in a missile attack Wednesday by Houthi rebels on their ship in the Red Sea. The attack set the Liberian-owned, Barbados-flagged ship True Confidence ablaze, about 50 nautical miles or 93 kilometers off the coast of Yemen's port of Aden. "We in the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) sincerely extend our deepest condolences to the family and kin of our slain, heroic seafarers. For reasons of privacy, we are withholding their names and identities," the DMW said in a statement RESCUE This handout photograph taken on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, and released by the Indian Navy shows the rescue operation of crew members of a Barbados-flagged bulk carrier by the Indian Navy after an attack by Yemen’s [...]
Jobless Filipinos at 9.4 million in December 2023 —SWS
The number of jobless Filipinos increased to 9.4 million in December 2023 from 7.9 million in September 2023, according to the survey of Social Weather Stations (SWS) The national survey conducted from December 8 to 11 last year said the 9.4 million unemployed represent 19.5% of the adult labor force. The figure was 2.6 points higher than the 16.9% jobless in September 2023. SWS defines the labor force as adults (18 years and above) presently with a job, and those looking for a job. According to the survey firm, the jobless consist of those who voluntarily left their old jobs; are seeking jobs for the first time; or lost their jobs due to economic circumstances beyond their control. The December 2023 survey also found the labor force participation rate at [...]
House committee okays Charter change resolution
MANILA, Philippines- The House of Representatives' Committee of the Whole on Wednesday approved Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) 7 which seeks to amend certain economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution. The resolution was approved after the committee deliberations which started on March 4, 2024 and which were attended by resource persons. Like the RBH 6 filed at the Senate, RBH 7 covered Article XII (Section 11), Article XIV (paragraph 2 of Section 4), and Article XVI (paragraph 2 of Section 11). Both resolutions seek to add the words "unless otherwise provided by law" to these provisions. They also seek to add the word "basic" before the words "educational institutions" in the first sentence of paragraph 2, Section 4 of Article XIV. An approved committee report would have to be [...]
China rejects PH diplomatic protest, says actions in WPS will continue
China spurned the diplomatic protest filed by the Philippines, in connection with its recent actions in the West Philippine Sea, warning that it would continue despite Manila’s complaint arising from the latest China Coast Guard (CCG) cannon attack and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels. The Chinese embassy in Manila said it found nothing wrong when CCG blocked the path of a Philippine vessel and attacked the latter with a water cannon. The blockade led to a collision, which CCG described as just “mild” as well as the injury of four Filipino crew. China made the statement after Chinese Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission Zhou Zhiyong was summoned on Tuesday to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to shed light on the latest actions by the CCG in the [...]
DOH opens 1st urgent care, ambulatory service center in PH
BUCAS CENTER. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa (left) leads the inauguration of the first Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service (BUCAS) center in the Philippines in Sto. Tomas, Pampanga on Wednesday (March 6, 2024). He said the BUCAS center was inspired by the concept of the LAB For All project, headed by First Lady Atty. Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta Marcos. (Photo courtesy of the Department of Health) MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday opened the first Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service (BUCAS) center in the Philippines in Sto. Tomas, Pampanga. “The DOH was inspired by the concept of the LAB For All project, headed by First Lady Atty. Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta Marcos. We want to institutionalize the LAB For All concept through BUCAS [...]
China says US using Philippines as ‘pawn’ in South China Sea
This photo taken on March 5, 2024 shows a vessel identified by the Philippine Coast Guard as “Chinese maritime militia” during sunrise in the disputed South China Sea. The Philippines said on March 5 that China Coast Guard vessels caused two collisions with Philippine boats and water cannoned one of them, leaving four crew injured during a resupply mission in the South China Sea. AFP BEIJING — China on Wednesday accused the United States of using the Philippines as a “pawn” in the South China Sea, as hostilities between the two Asian nations escalate over their territorial dispute in the region. “China urges the United States not to use the Philippines as a pawn to stir up trouble in the South China Sea. The Philippines should [...]
Government’s borrowings increased to P2.2 trillion last year
President Marcos took out slightly more loans last year to finance the government's operations and projects. Based on the Bureau of the Treasury's data, the national government's gross borrowings increased by 1.4 percent to P2.193 trillion between January and December 2023 from P2.163 trillion in the previous year. However, the actual borrowings were 0.6 percent lower than the administration's full-year target of P2.206 trillion The Treasury report indicated that the increase was mainly due to higher foreign financing despite decreased borrowings from local banks. Total domestic market financing dropped by 0.5 percent, or P9 billion, to reach P1.634 trillion in 2023, from P1.643 trillion in 2022. This is also below the P1.653 trillion target. The majority of local borrowings, making up 71.9 percent, were in the form of fixed-rate [...]
DBM injects P176 million into DOST initiatives for scholars, health research
The Department of Management (DBM) has recently approved fresh funding to bolster the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) health research and development initiative. Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said the DBM has given the green light for the release of P179.9 billion to the DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD). This funding is earmarked to support the implementation of DOST-PCHRD’s grants-in-aid program, Pangadaman said in a statement on Sunday, March 3. Specifically, the allocated budget will be utilized for research and development, capacity building, financial assistance for researchers, organization of forums and conventions, provision of stipends for scholars, and offering financial support to State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). “Investing in health research translates to investing in a healthier and more resilient future for our nation. With [...]
Gabriela ushers in Women’s Month with protest rally
THE Gabriela Women's Party kicked off the celebration of Women's Month with a protest rally against rising power rates and the proposal to amend the Constitution, especially for poor Filipino women. Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas said the government continues to push for charter change amid increasing water and electricity rates. STARTING THEM YOUNG The youth sector of the Gabriela Women’s Group leads an anti-charter change protest on Mendiola in Manila, on Friday, March 1, 2024, at the start of Women’s Month. PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA Brosas said Filipino families are struggling to cope with increasing expenses, which would intensify if the government continued with its plan to open the economy to 100-percent foreign ownership. The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) recently raised its rates by P0.5738 per [...]
First storm likely to hit PH in March, to be named ‘Aghon’
Manila, Philippines- The first storm would likely enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this March and would be named "Aghon," the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said on Friday. Weather specialist Benison Estareja said the northeast monsoon or "amihan" will bring light rains over Northern Luzon while the easterlies will affect the rest of the country. Pagasa said in its 5 a.m. advisory that amihan will affect Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan, Isabela and Aurora where partly cloudy to overcast skies would prevail. Metro Manila and the rest of the country, meanwhile, would likely experience isolated rain showers or thunderstorms due to the easterlies and localized thunderstorms, it added.
China: PH-Australia pact destabilizes region
(UPDATE) HOURS after the Philippines and Australia signed an agreement to enhance maritime cooperation, China issued a warning against actions that undermine the stability of the Indo-Pacific region. The agreement is one of three signed during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s visit to Australia last Wednesday. The two others involve cyber and critical technology and effective competition policies. Malacañang said the maritime pact aims at building up civil-military cooperation and promoting international law and a rules-based order in the region. Mao Ning, deputy director of the China Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Information Department. AFP Photo In a statement shared by the Chinese embassy in Manila on Thursday night, Mao Ning, deputy director of the China Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Information Department, said the South China Sea "is generally stable. [...]
‘PH on the frontline of battle for peace’
AUSSIE ADDRESS. President Marcos addresses the Australian House of Representatives at the Parliament House in Canberra on Thursday. AFP with PPO Pool Canberra—President Marcos told Australia’s parliament the Philippines was on the “frontline” of a battle for regional peace Thursday as he urged Canberra to join forces in facing the threats that disrupt peace, stability, and the rule of law. With Beijing’s warships loitering in waters off the Philippines’ coast, Mr. Marcos told Australian lawmakers he will remain firm in defending the country’s sovereignty, despite “formidable” challenges. “I shall never tire of repeating the declaration that I made from thefirst day that I took office: I will not allow any attempt by anyforeign power to take even one square inch of our sovereign territory,” Mr. Marcos said. [...]
Marcos signs into law Tatak Pinoy Act, Expanded Centenarians Act
President Marcos has signed two landmark laws that aim to honor two key sectors of society and promote their rights and development — the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act and the Expanded Centenarians Act. President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. (RTVM screenshot) Marcos signed the two measures in a ceremony in Malacañan on Monday, Feb. 26. He was initially set to sign three laws, but Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers Act was still "under further review." "It's my honor to sign into law two bills which do not only honor two key sectors of society but mandate measures that protect their rights and promote their development," he said in his speech. "Each of these laws encapsulates the merits that the Bagong Pilipinas upholds to [...]
Entire House Tackles Economic Cha-Cha Today
The committee will be convened to expedite discussions on the Resolution of Both Houses 7 or the House version of economic Cha-cha or Charter change, according to Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr Various groups march towards EDSA on Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, to commemorate the 38th anniversary of the people power revolution and oppose moves to amend the Constitution. Photo by Jesse Bustos, The Philippine STAR The House of Representatives will convene today, Feb. 26, the committee of the whole to deliberate on the proposed economic Charter change. The committee will be convened to expedite discussions on the Resolution of Both Houses 7 or the House version of economic Cha-cha, according to Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. “The conversion of the House into a committee [...]
Low-key series of events mark People Power
A front view of the Edsa Shrine’s calm facade, taken an hour before scheduled protests on February 25, 2024, at the historic site for the commemoration of the 38th People Power anniversary. (Photo by ZEUS LEGASPI / INQUIRER.net Manila, Philippines — While President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. may not have declared Feb. 25 a holiday, this did not prevent groups, including some government agencies, from commemorating the 38th anniversary of the first People Power Revolution that saw millions of people gathered for four days on Edsa, leading to the ouster of his father and namesake, and the restoration of democracy in the country. But unlike in previous years, no prominent personalities were at the traditional flag-raising and wreath-laying rites held in the morning by the National Historical [...]
Ex-Pres Duterte urges against Cha-cha favoring present admin
Former President Rodrigo Duterte over the weekend urged against amending the 1987 Constitution to favor the current administration, Unang Balita reported on Monday. In a prayer rally in Cebu, Duterte said the six-year term for the president is already enough. "Huwag baguhin ang Konstitusyon pabor sa kasalukuyang nakaupo at maghahangad pa ng karagdagang termino. Kumportable na tayo sa anim na taon. One term, let us stick to that," Duterte said in his native dialect. (Don't amend the Constitution to favor the president who would want an additional term. We are already comfortable with six years. One term, let us stick to that.) Duterte reportedly added that he is in favor of amending the economic provisions of the current Constitution or even changes in the term of the president as [...]
Bill to compel installation of rain collection systems
MANILA – Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers on Sunday called for the approval of a bill he filed more than a year ago seeking mandatory installation of rainwater collection systems (RCS) in new residential and commercial buildings, particularly in urban or densely-populated areas. With the advent of the El Niño, the lawmaker from Mindanao is calling for the passage of House Bill (HB) No. 4837 mandating the installation of RCS, primarily to promote sufficient water supply during the extreme dry weather phenomenon and to reduce flooding in urban areas in times of La Niña. “The global extreme weather conditions apparently due to climate change prompted the idea of calling for the mandatory RCS installation in all residential, commercial and institutional buildings that would be built in the future,” [...]
Teodoro explores defense collaboration with UK, Vietnam
Manila, Philippines- Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. explored defense and security collaborations with the United Kingdom and Vietnam amid security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the South China Sea. Teodoro met separately with the UK's Trade Envoy to the Philippines, Richard Graham, and Vietnam's Ambassador to the Philippines Lai Thai Binh in Camp Aguinaldo on Friday to discuss defense and security matters Defense Spokesman Director Arsenio Andolong said Teodoro and Graham expressed interest in joint ventures with British investors and other forms of cooperation to support the modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. He said that Graham echoed the UK's desire for closer defense ties with the Philippines. "He reaffirmed the UK's commitment to collaborating with allies and partners under the Protect, Align, and [...]
FDA okays VAT exemption of 22 more vital drugs
Photo from the Facebook account of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Manila, Philippines — Twenty-two more medicines for different diseases have been endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for exemption from the value-added tax (VAT) to make them more accessible to consumers. Under FDA Advisory No. 2024-0329, signed by Director General Samuel Zacate, the regulatory body endorsed to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) the inclusion of 14 drugs for cancer, four drugs for hypertension, and four drugs for mental illness in the list of medicines exempt from the 12-percent VAT. The advisory was dated February 15 but was released on the FDA website only on Monday. The cancer medicines to be exempted from VAT are the following Sonidegib (as phosphate) 200 milligram (mg) [...]
World Bank: Emerging economies must grow ‘much faster’ to repay debt
The multilateral lender's latest warning comes as international bond sales from emerging market governments hit an all-time record of $47 billion in January, led by less risky emerging economies such as Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Romania. LONDON, United Kingdom - The World Bank warned that high borrowing costs have "changed dramatically" the need for developing nations to boost sluggish economic growth. The multilateral lender's latest warning comes as international bond sales from emerging market governments hit an all-time record of $47 billion in January, led by less risky emerging economies such as Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Romania. However, some riskier issuers have started to tap markets at higher rates. Kenya recently paid more than 10% on a new international bond - the threshold above which experts often consider borrowing unaffordable. "When it [...]
Oil rises 1% on signs of tightening supplies
FILE PHOTO: A flare burns excess natural gas in the Permian Basin in Loving County, Texas, U.S. November 23, 2019. Picture taken November 23, 2019. REUTERS/Angus Mordant//File Photo NEW YORK — Oil prices rose 1% on Wednesday as geopolitical tensions raged on in the Middle East and traders assessed signs of near-term supply tightness. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures (WTI) rose 87 cents, or 1.1%, to settle at $77.91 a barrel, while Brent crude rose 69 cents, or 0.8%, to $83.03 a barrel. Oil contracts tied to near-term deliveries have been trading at their steepest premium to later-dated contracts in multiple months, a market structure known as backwardation and considered a sign of a tightly supplied market. Timespreads are showing markets tightening, UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo [...]
PH, US launch P1.6-B higher education skills upgrade program
The Philippines and the US have launched a P1.6 billion program, first announced by leaders of both states in May 2023, to help Philippine higher education graduates become more globally competitive. Led by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the five-year US-Philippines Partnership for Skills, Innovation, and Lifelong Learning (UPSKILL) program was rolled out on Tuesday, Feb. 20, to strengthen innovation, workforce development, and entrepreneurship in Philippine colleges and universities. According to the US Embassy in Manila, the program will bring together US universities, Philippine government agencies that are engaged in human capital development, and private sector partners to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in higher education institutions. That will be done through faculty and staff training, curriculum improvements, and increasing community outreach and technology transfer, the embassy said. [...]
DepEd resets end of school year to May, opening July
Manila, Philippines- The Department of Education moved the end of school year 2023-2024 to May 31, 2024, paving the way for the gradual return to the old school calendar. The directive under Department Order 003 series of 2024 signed by Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte also set the date of the school break from June 1 to July 26, 2024. It was set initially on June 14 School Year 2024-2025 is set to begin on July 29, 2024 and end on May 16, 2025. Education Undersecretary Michael Wesley Poa said the department order was their way of gradually shifting the school calendar without compromising the number of school days of learners. "You can see that our school calendar will gradually shift back to the usual April to [...]
Comelec distributes withdrawal forms for People’s Initiative
The Commission on Elections has approved the distribution of “withdrawal forms” to registered voters who wish to remove their signatures from the people’s initiative petition to change the 1987 Constitution. In a memo, the poll body said the withdrawal form was adopted during a referendum on Feb. 14. Comelec in its memo also directed its Education and Information Department to disseminate the information “while clarifying that the acceptance of withdrawal forms shall not be construed as formal action by the Commission on the signature sheets/petition for People’s Initiative.” Among the details asked for in the withdrawal form are the person’s name, address, precinct number, and reason for taking back their signature to the PI petition. Last month, the Comelec suspended all proceedings concerning the people’s initiative [...]
Marcos to PCG, BFAR: Stay put in disputed waters
(UPDATE) PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to continue its rotational deployment of ships in the West Philippine Sea in a move that "does not intend to provoke anybody" but will merely ensure that Filipino fishers are protected against China's harassment and incursions. The President's order comes as Chinese vessels moved to block access to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal on Saturday morning as Philippine ships conducted another Rotation and Resupply (RoRe) mission to Filipino troops stationed on board BRP Sierra Madre This photo taken on February 15, 2024 shows Filipino fishermen aboard their wooden boats queueing for free fuel beside the Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) ship BRP Datu Tamblot (L) as a Chinese coast guard ship (background R) monitors near the [...]
Most Filipino adults ‘not satisfied’ with how Marcos admin handles inflation, poverty — OCTA
Most Filipino adults expressed discontent with how the current administration manages inflation and reduces the existing poverty in the country. Photo courtesy of OCTA Research The OCTA Research on Saturday, Feb. 17, said the majority of adult Filipinos were "dissatisfied" with how the national government takes steps to help alleviate the lives of those in the lower sector of the economy. "A significant majority of adult Filipinos are dissatisfied with the national government’s performance in managing inflation (only 14% satisfaction) and reducing poverty in the country (only 6% satisfaction)," OCTA said. It also said "more" adult Filipinos are "dissatisfied" with the national government’s efforts in controlling the prices of basic goods or managing inflation at 75 percent; reducing poverty at 46 percent; ensuring food security or access to affordable [...]
‘China fishers used cyanide to destroy Bajo de Masinloc’
DANGEROUS MOVES. This photo taken on Feb. 15, 2024 shows an aerial view of a China Coast Guard vessel (upper) and China Coast Guard personnel on a rubber boat at Bajo de Masinloc. AFP PH accuses Chinese boats of ‘dangerous’ actions Chinese fishers have been using cyanide in Bajo de Masinloc to intentionally destroy the traditional fishing grounds of Filipinos, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources chief information officer Nazario Briguera said. Briguera said parts of the resource-rich area has been destroyed. The Philippines also accused Chinese coast guard ships of “dangerous” maneuvers after they repeatedly blocked a Filipino vessel delivering supplies to fishermen at Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, on Thursday and Friday. Bajo de Masinloc has been a flashpoint between the countries [...]
PH to continue Scarborough deployment; denies ‘provocation’
MANILA – The Philippine government said Saturday it will continue its “rotational deployment” to the Scarborough Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc (BDM) to support Filipinos fishing in the area. The statement came as it presented its initial deployment report, detailing how the operation was a “success” despite the Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels’ dangerous maneuvers and shadowing activities to prevent government ships from engaging with the Filipino fisherfolk. “Sa kabila po ng mga hamon, matagumpay po ang ginawang paglalayag ng BRP Tamblot at ang mga gawain nito ay ayon po sa isinasaad ng ating batas at sumasakop na pandaigdigang batas katulad po ng UNCLOS (Despite the challenges, the deployment of the BRP Tamblot and its mission was a success and were all in line with domestic and [...]
DFA: No change in WPS policy; PH to defend sovereign rights
Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo (PNA photo by Avito Dalan) MANILA – Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Thursday said there is no new directive to soften actions in asserting the country’s sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS). In a media forum in Manila, the Filipino top diplomat said the Philippines has always and will maintain a policy to manage disputes diplomatically and peacefully while firmly defending its maritime rights over the area. “So, our position has not changed, it remains the same. I think that's how we will proceed in whatever future discussions we have,” he said. Manalo said the government would also sustain a policy of transparency in the WPS, noting that the country's actions have been consistently “hinged on international [...]
DepEd awaits World Bank study to determine due benefits for teachers
Department of Education spokesperson Undersecretary Michael Poa (PNA file photo) MANILA – The Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday said it is awaiting the result of a World Bank (WB) study to assess ideal benefits for public school teachers. “We are expecting preliminary results from the World Bank in a few weeks. They are just requesting additional data from DepEd which we are now processing,” DepEd spokesperson Undersecretary Michael Poa told reporters in a Viber message. Poa's remarks came after progressive lawmakers in the House of Representatives filed House Bill 9920 on Tuesday, seeking to increase the entry-level salary of public school teachers to PHP50,000. He mentioned working with the WB to commission the study last year, even before the filing of the said proposal. Poa said [...]
Gov’t agencies, LGUs begin talks on regulating use of e-bikes
TALKS ON E-BIKES. Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) acting chair Don Artes (right), Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II, and several other national and local government officials attend the discussions on having a unified regulation towards the use of e-bikes and other unregistered electronic vehicles nationwide, at the MMDA head office in Pasig City on Thursday (Feb. 15, 2024). Artes said the regulation is meant to control the proliferation of e-vehicles that have often been marketed by vendors as not requiring registration or license to operate. (Photo courtesy of MMDA) MANILA – Several national government agencies and local government units (LGU) on Thursday began discussions on regulating the use of e-bikes and other unregistered electronic vehicles (e-vehicles) nationwide. The [...]
PhilHealth vows to enhance benefit package, services
MANILA – The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) on Wednesday committed to enhance their services and patients’ benefit package. PhilHealth president and CEO Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. made the commitment during the hearing of the House health committee in response to the call of Speaker Martin Romualdez to expand the state-run health insurer's benefit packages for its members. “We are one we are one with Speaker Martin when he says we have to aggressively and continuously increase the case packages of PhilHealth across the board,” Ledesma said Ledesma said as part of PhilHealth's mandate, they would increase the benefit packages to make it easier for Filipinos to avail of healthcare services. He added that it would be better for the country and its healthcare system if Filipinos could enjoy significantly [...]
Coalition vs Charter change launched
A NUMBER of religious and civic organizations on Wednesday formed a coalition against attempts to amend the 1987 Constitution. The Koalisyon Laban sa Cha-cha (Coalition against Charter change) said revising the Constitution will not solve the country's problems, as claimed by its proponents. Among its founding members were Sen. Ana Theresia "Risa" Hontiveros, Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, Bishop Jonel Milan of the K4Philippines Intercessors Movement, Caritas Manila Executive Secretary Fr. Antonio Labiao, Ging Quintos-Deles of the Buhay ang EDSA Campaign Network, Minnie Anne Mata-Calub of the National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP), Josua Mata of Nagkaisa Labor Coalition, and members of Akbayan youth Religious and various group's launch ed Wednesday, February 14 at Knight's of Columbus, a coalition against a renewed push for Charter Change(Cha-Cha) which [...]
Japan, IOM launch $2.58-M project to rehab Mindanao ‘peace stations’
PEACE MISSION. International Organization for Migration (IOM) Philippines Chief of Mission Tristan Burnett (2nd from left) and Japanese Ambassador yoo the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko shake hands during the launch of the project “Enhancing and Sustaining Peace and Security Mechanisms in Mindanao" at the Dusit Thani, Makati City on Wednesday (Feb. 14, 2024). The Japanese government allotted USD2.58 million (PHP141.9 million) for the project that will rehabilitate four peace and security stations in Mindanao as a way to sustain the peace efforts in the region. (PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler) MANILA – The Japanese government is funding a USD2.58 million (PHP141.9 million) project that will rehabilitate four peace and security stations in Mindanao as a way to sustain the peace efforts in the region. The [...]
NDRRMC: P738M infrastructure damage in Mindanao floods, landslides
In this handout photo from the Eastern Mindanao Command, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) taken on February 7, 2024 and received on February 8, 2024, shows responders conduct search and rescue operations in Maco, Davao de Oro. Handout / Armed Forces of the Philippines' Eastern Mindanao Command Manila, Philippines — Flooding and landslides in Mindanao caused around P738.6 million in infrastructure damage, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said Sunday. According to the latest report from the NDRRMC, infrastructure damage in Caraga and Davao region was estimated at P473 million and 265.6 million, respectively. Relentless downpours triggered floods and landslides that damaged approximately 1,344 houses across Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, and Caraga. The NDRRMC reported that over 1.38 million people in the southern Philippines [...]
Southern seaports closely guarded vs human trafficking — BI
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has assured that it is watching closely the country’s southern international seaports against human trafficking. “Traffickers might think that there is less regulation in our southern ports, hence attempts to send out trafficking victims there,” BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said. “However, the IACAT’s (Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking) presence remains strong there, ensuring that victims are intercepted before departure,” he pointed out Last Jan. 22, Tansingco said immigration officers intercepted at the Zamboanga International Seaport (ZIS) three Filipinos who posed as tourists but were discovered to be human trafficking victims. Citing reports from the BI’s Immigration Border Protection and Enforcement Section (I-PROBES), Tansingco said the women were prevented from boarding a vessel bound to Sandakan, Malaysia after immigration officers found inconsistencies in their documents. The [...]
Labor groups laud move for P100 daily wage hike
LABOR groups lauded the Senate move toward a legislated nationwide P100 daily minimum wage increase as a step forward in fulfilling workers' long-standing clamor for a uniform minimum wage system throughout the country. "This Senate action renews hope among workers and their unions for a standardized wage increase across the country, paving the way for the potential establishment of a singular national minimum wage in the coming days. It highlights a pivotal concern within our present economic structure," the joint statement of Nagkaisa Labor Coalition (Nagkaisa) and Federation of Free Workers (FFW) said A standardized wage structure, according to the labor groups, should be put in place as workers all over the country have the same needs regardless of their regional locations. Also, the labor groups pointed out that [...]
More than half of Filipinos ‘very happy’ with love life
LOVE BY THE NUMBERS. This graph by the Social Weather Stations shows the trends in romance among Filipinos through the decades. More than half of respondents polled by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) said they were “very happy with their love life,” with the rest saying they “could be happier” or they had no love life. The noncommissioned survey conducted in December last year among 1,200 adults nationwide was released on Feb. 11 ahead of Valentine’s Day on Wednesday. SWS said the respondents were asked which of these phrases “describes your love life”—“very happy,” “could be happier” and “no love life.” “Fifty-eight percent of Filipinos were very happy with their love life, 23 percent could be happier, and 19 percent have no love life,” the polling [...]
PH commits to further efforts vs tobacco use
The Philippines has assured the international community that it will continue to undertake efforts against tobacco use in the country. Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Hubert Dominic Guevara stated that the Philippines will continue to engage constructive dialogues, collaboration and share its experiences with fellow Parties of the Conference to overcome various challenges in realizing the goals of the Convention in terms of tobacco control. Guevara said President Marcos has underscored the importance of a tailored, multi-sectoral approach to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) implementation. Guevara, whose speech was delivered by Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Assistant Secretary for Digital Media and Communications Patricia Kayle Martin in Panama, said the Philippines welcomes the positive strides that parties have made, but also acknowledged the remaining challenges. [...]
Duterte: Secession a legal process, doesn’t mean going to war
Former President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday insisted that there was nothing illegal with his proposal for Mindanao to secede from the Philippines. In an interview with Atty. Salvador Panelo, Duterte said his proposal to secede doesn't mean going to war. "[My proposal] is a legal process that will be brought to the United Nations [akin to that of] Timor Leste," Duterte said. "They thought if you want to secede, it's going to be a war. No. We are going to do it the legal way," he added Told that secession was against the 1987 Constitution, Duterte said, "It is not against the Constitution. It is outside the Constitution. Mag-secede ka nga e." "It is based on the right of a free will of determination of the people," Duterte said. [...]
South Korean ‘fugitive’ arrested in Marinduque — BI
A fugitive South Korean wanted in his country for alleged telecommunications fraud and illegal drugs trafficking has been arrested in Marinduque, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said on Friday, Feb. 9. Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco identified the foreigner as Sim Dongwoo, 43, who was caught last Tuesday, Feb. 6, by operatives of BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (BI-FSU) in Buenavista, Marinduque. “We will deport Sim Dongwoo immediately so he could face trial for the crimes he allegedly committed,” Tansingco said. "Sim was already included in our blacklist and perpetually banned from re-entering the Philippines," he said. He also said that Sim was arrested pursuant to the summary deportation order issued by the BI board of commissioners over three years ago. Based on information received from the International Criminal Police Organization [...]
Sec Remulla reiterates: ICC has no jurisdiction over PH
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla on Friday, Feb. 9, reiterated that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has no jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute any person in the Philippines. “Our nation, as a sovereign entity, possesses the inherent right to determine our own legal framework and address internal matters without any interference from external bodies,” Remulla said. He reminded that the Philippines has already withdrawn as a part of the Rome Statute that created the ICC and the withdrawal took effect in 2019 “The country’s withdrawal from the ICC clearly showcases our unwavering commitment to upholding national sovereignty and preserving the integrity of our justice system,” he pointed out. “We have consistently demonstrated our preparedness, willingness, and capability to thoroughly investigate and prosecute crimes committed within our jurisdiction, ensuring [...]
Teodoro, German leader discuss defense requirements in WPS
Manila, Philippines - Leaders from Germany and Czech Republic on Thursday discussed with Defense Secretary c Jr. the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) defense requirements in dealing with the challenges to the country's maritime domain. Secretary Teodoro first met German Federal Parliament member Dr. Johann Wadephul at his office where the two discussed common security challenges affecting both countries, including the West Philippine Sea (WPS), said DND spokesperson Director Arsenio Andolong in a statement on Friday. Andolong said that Teodoro laid down the Philippine defense capability development priorities, highlighting area denial, maritime domain awareness, air defense, and cybersecurity in the AFP modernization program. Under the modernization program Horizon-3, the AFP intends to acquire more naval ships, attack aircraft, a submarine and other sophisticated armaments to boost defense and [...]
Safety concerns, high costs stall nuclear power progress
Safety concerns and high development costs are stumping nuclear power development in Asia, with new facilities unlikely to come online in the next decade, according to an international think tank. The Fitch Group, through its unit BMI, said in a report that nuclear power generation in the region would be limited to “a handful of markets,” particularly China, India, South Korea and Bangladesh. While nuclear power capacity in Asia is expected to grow to 185.8 gigawatts by 2033, BMI said the growth would only be driven by developments in China, which will account for 78 percent of the total projection. India will contribute 11 percent, while South Korea and Bangladesh will account for the remaining 11 percent. “The sentiment in Asia remains relatively against nuclear power reactors, reflected by [...]
PNP organizational reforms bill hurdles Senate
MANILA – The bill institutionalizing new organizational reforms in the Philippine National Police (PNP) is one step closer to becoming a law after it was unanimously approved by the Senate on Monday. Voting 23 in favor, zero against and zero abstentions, the chamber passed Senate Bill (SB) 2449, which seeks to amend Republic Act (RA) 6975 or the Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990 and RA 8551 or the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998 Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, a former PNP chief and the sponsor of the bill, thanked his colleagues and those who have helped in crafting the measure. "After all these years, finally, the PNP organizational reforms we sought to introduce are being materialized. They are beginning to see the [...]
Popcom ‘deeply concerned’ about rise in teen pregnancies
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) has raised the alarm on the considerable rise in teen pregnancies, as it called on lawmakers to pass a law that would help address the problem. Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), CPD, also known as Popcom, noted that a total of 3,135 adolescent girls younger than 15 years old gave birth in 2022—a 35.13 percent increase from the 2,320 recorded in 2021. “Although live births from adolescent girls, 14 years old and below, [are] just 0.22 percent of total live births recorded, CPD is still deeply concerned about the increase in adolescent pregnancy, especially among our very young girls,” CPD executive director Lisa Grace Bersales said in a statement on Monday. Registered live births by adolescent [...]
No rush to amend Charter – Zubiri
SENATE President Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri said Monday the senators would not set a deadline for amending economic provisions of the Constitution. Zubiri assured the public the Senate would carefully deliberate the amendment proposals and come out with "the best possible outcome for the people." "We must discuss this [proposed revisions] with all members of society, not just our learned luminaries here, as well as different sectors that will be affected by the most amendments of our Constitution," he said IT STARTS Senate President Juan Miguel ‘Migz’ Zubiri listens to Sen. Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara during the hearing on Monday, Feb. 5, 2024, on Resolution of Both Houses 6, which seeks to limit Charter amendments to economic provisions. PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA The Senate Subcommittee on Constitutional [...]
DOTr allocates P14B, gets int’l financial support for PH airports modernization
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has allocated around P14 billion to rehabilitate and modernize as many regional airports, particularly those with access to major tourist spots of the country. DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said the fund will come from the 2024 national budget and will be reinforced with airport development projects under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme with financial support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the International Finance Corporation of the World Bank. The P14 billion budget allocation covers improvements of the Catbalogan, Tacloban, Laoag, Puerto Princesa, Kalibo, lloilo, and 16 other airports nationwide. On the other hand, those which will be covered by the PPP are airports in Bohol, Siargao, Bacolod-Silay, Davao, and Iloilo. “Our goal is to make the Philippine archipelago more connected and [...]
PH inks 5-year rice importation deal with Vietnam
(INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / EDWIN BACASMAS) Manila, Philippines – The Philippines will import up to 2 million metric tons of rice from Vietnam yearly for five years. The Presidential Communication Office (PCO) said that Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and his Vietnamese counterpart signed the five-year trade memorandum of understanding (MOU) during President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s trip to Vietnam. “Under the MOU, Vietnam agreed on a five-year trade commitment to supply, through its private sector, white rice to Philippine private sector, amounting to 1.5 million to 2 million metric tons per year at a competitive and affordable price,” said the PCO in a statement on Tuesday Laurel announced the prospective agreement in a Palace briefing earlier in January. The PCO said that [...]
VP Sara denies hand in Oplan Tokhang in Davao City
Vice President Sara Duterte on Thursday denied orchestrating "Oplan Tokhang" in Davao City during her term as mayor as accused by former Davao policeman Arturo Lascañas. In a video message, Duterte said her name is being dragged into the issue so that she will be included in the investigation of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on the extrajudicial killings being linked to her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte. “Bago ang script na ito. Sa mga taon na nagsilbi ako bilang vice mayor at mayor ng Davao City, ni minsan ay hindi naugnay ang aking pangalan sa isyung ito,” Vice President Duterte said. “Maliban sa tiyempo, malinaw na sadyang pinilit lang na maidugtong ang pangalan ko sa isyung ito para ako maging akusado sa ICC,” she added. (This is a [...]
Rody calls for Mindanao to secede via sign campaign
Former President Rodrigo Duterte Former President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday night called for Mindanao to secede from the Philippines through a process based on a signature campaign that would be presented to the United Nations. At a news conference in Davao City, Duterte said it was Davao Del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez who first pushed for the secession. “It’s not a rebellion; it’s not sedition,” Duterte said. “There’s a process, I think, before the UN wherein you would gather signatures from all sorts of Mindanao verified under oath in the presence of so many people [to] decide that we want a separate [state],” Duterte said. “If you want to do it in Luzon and the Visayas, too, that’s up to you,” he added in Filipino. Duterte has [...]
‘ASEAN members can pursue bilateral sea Code of Conduct’
TOAST TO VIETNAM. President Marcos offers a toast to Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong and First Lady Phan Thi Thanh Tam during the state banquet in his honor at the International Convention Center in Hanoi, Vietnam on Tuesday night. The Philippines signed a five-year deal with Vietnam to ensure a steady supply of affordable rice to the country as global prices of the staple continue to surge. PPA POOL President Marcos raised the possibility of pursuing a separate bilateral code of conduct in the South China Sea with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). “What I was saying before about having an agreement, if we cannot finish the code of conduct with ASEAN and China, I said let us make it bilateral first with [...]
LPG prices up effective Feb. 1
Fuel firms on Thursday announced an upward adjustment in the retail prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). In an advisory, Petron said it hiked its household LPG price by P0.95 per kilogram, effective 12 a.m. on February 1. The adjustment is equivalent to about a P10 increase in the price of a typical 11-kilogram LPG cylinder. “This reflects the international contract price of LPG for the month of February,” Petron said. Solane, likewise, said it increased its LPG price by P0.91 per kilogram —translating to around P10 hike for an 11-kilogram LPG tank. The adjustment took effect on February 1 at 8 a.m. This is the second consecutive month of hikes in LPG prices since the beginning of the year, when a P3.40 per kilogram increase was implemented for the [...]
Farmers, fishers say ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ offers no solutions to their problems
Fishermen arrive to unload their catch for the day at a fish port in Paranaque, Metro Manila on July 12, 2023. AFP / Jam Sta. Rosa MANILA, Philippines — Peasant groups denounced Sunday the so-called “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) movement of the Marcos Jr. administration, saying this fails to address the root causes of their struggles and offers no real solutions to the country’s problems. The government will hold a rally this afternoon at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila to launch the “Bagong Pilipinas” branding, which started in 2023. The Philippine Information Agency called the event a “historic gathering” that “aims to ignite hope and inspire participation in building a better Philippines through collective action.” But for Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (PAMALAKAYA), the administration’s rebranding will not [...]
President leads ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ kick-off rally in Manila
CALL FOR TRANSFORMATION. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos lead the launching of "Bagong Pilipinas" at Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Sunday (Jan. 28, 2024) attended by more than 400,000 people. The President said "Bagong Pilipinas" is a call for the transformation of our idea of being a Filipino, of our economy, governance, and society. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan) MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday said the "Bagong Pilipinas" (New Philippines) is a new approach to governance that will benefit all Filipinos. "Bagong Pilipinas is not a political game plan that caters to a privileged few. It is a master plan for genuine development that benefits all people," Marcos said in his speech during the "Bagong Pilipinas" kick-off rally held [...]
VP Duterte attends Davao prayer rally after Bagong Pilipinas rally in Manila
Vice President Sara Duterte attends the Bagong Pilipinas rally on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024. (Photo by GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE / Philippine Daily Inquirer) Manila, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte arrived at the Hakbang ng Maisug Prayer Rally on Sunday evening, hours after she briefly appeared at the “Bagong Pilipinas” kick-off rally at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila. As seen in a Facebook Live on the official page of former President Rodrigo Duterte, the vice president graced the Davao City event and expressed her gratitude to their supporters there. In an earlier post, the vice president said she would attend both events. “My fellow Filipinos, I will attend the Bagong Pilipinas Kickoff Rally at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila. The DepEd is also pushing for the 8-point Socioeconomic [...]
ASEAN to call out SCS tensions
ASEAN foreign ministers are expected to issue a statement expressing deep concern over the growing tension in the South China Sea, saying it threatens the safety of people, after their two-day meeting in Laos starting on Sunday. During the two days of meetings, the top diplomats from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are expected to discuss the South China Sea disputes, the Myanmar crisis, the North Korean threats, and the wars in Ukraine and Israel. While the foreign ministers will avoid mentioning the series alarming incidents between the Chinese and Philippine coast guards last year,they will express concern how the territorial face-offs were putting the safety of people in peril. The statement will likely be issued by the Laotian chair on behalf of the ASEAN ministers on [...]
SMNI suspension suppression of press freedom – Roque
FORMER palace spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said the cease-and-desist order issued to Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) is an "outright suppression of the press freedom." "What they did to us is an outright suppression of the freedom of the press and the freedom of expression. No doubts about it," Roque said at the "Business and Politics" program hosted by The Manila Times Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dante "Klink" Ang 2nd. Swara Sug Media Corp., the mother company of SMNI, was first docked a 30-day preventive suspension order on Dec. 21, 2023, for alleged franchise violations. Former palace spokesman Harry Roque Jr. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO On January 22, the NTC issued another suspension order against SMNI after receiving reports the media company was "still operating" in certain [...]
Duterte, allies lead anti-Charter change forum, prayer rally in Davao
NO TO CHA_CHA. Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio speaks at the Davao prayer rally against Charter change organized by allies and officials who served under her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, on Sunday night, hours after her brother, Davao City Mayor Basti Duterte, called on President Marcos to resign. Local government officials and supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday gathered to attend a leaders’ forum in Davao City ahead of a prayer rally against the signature campaign to push for Charter change. At the forum, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte expressed his frustration with President Marcos and the government, saying in closing in Cebuano: “If you don’t show love and aspiration for the country, better resign.” Duterte told supporters at the “Hakbang ng Maisug” forum he [...]
800 Filipino deportees arrive from Sabah
SECOND BATCH | About 800 Filipinos who had just arrived from Sabah await transport to a facility of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. (Photo from the Zamboanga Peninsula Police Region Office) ZAMBOANGA CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines — Some 800 deportees from Sabah arrived here on Thursday aboard a commercial vessel, social welfare officials said. This is the second batch of deportation this year as part of Malaysia’s continuing crackdown against illegal immigrants. Although the crackdown has been regularly done by Malaysian immigration authorities, these activities became intense following its legal dispute with the heirs of the Sultanate of Sulu starting in 2019. The sultanate’s heirs secured a $14.9 billion award from a French arbitration court pertaining to Sabah, over which they lay a proprietary [...]
DOLE: No work, no pay on Chinese New Year
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Saturday said the “no work, no pay” policy will be implemented during the Chinese New Year holidays on Feb. 9 and 10, which have been both declared as special non-working days. In Labor Advisory 01, series of 2024, the DOLE also advised employers to pay their employees the correct remuneration on those days. “On a special (non-working) day, ‘no work, no pay’ will be implemented unless the company has a policy or collective bargaining agreement that gives salary for that day,” it said in a statement posted on social media. The department explained that an employee who works on a special (non-working) day will be paid an additional 30 percent of his/her daily wage for the first eight hours of his [...]
PH rolls out governance brand
Bagong Pilipinas: Better govt services, big-ticket projects More than 200,000 people were expected to join today’s inaugural rally of “Bagong Pilipinas” governance brand led by President Marcos at the Quirino Grandstand, the Presidential Communications Office said on Saturday. PCO Undersecretary Gerald Baria said “big and long-term” projects will be rolled out by February, adding that “Bagong Pilipinas” is more than just a branding but a commitment to improve the lot of Filipinos “We will pursue big projects because these really benefit the people…This is like a declaration of commitment from the Philippine bureaucracy to elevate government services to reach our goal of Bagong Pilipinas,” Baria said. A coalition of businessmen, civic leaders and employers have likewise committed to support the initiative aimed at shoring up the economy. Led by [...]
Marcos to bring up maritime issues during Vietnam state visit next week
Photo from PBBM's Official FB Page President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is expected to discuss maritime and regional issues with Vietnam during his state visit there next week, a Department of Foreign Affairs official said Friday. This developed as some 50 Chinese vessels were spotted near Ayungin Shoal ahead of the rotation and resupply mission of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to BRP Sierra Madre, an American security analyst said. In a Palace briefing, DFA Assistant Secretary Aileen Mendiola-Rau said the President would start a discussion on various regional and international issues with Vietnamese leaders during his state visit from Jan. 29 to 30 “If it’s on the MOU (memorandum of understanding) between the (Philippine and Vietnamese) Coast Guard, it’s a simple agreement on how both coast [...]
DepEd deloads teachers of administrative tasks
Manila, Philippines: The Department of Education (DepEd) removed certain administrative tasks of teachers, as part of Vice President Sara Duterte's Matatag education agenda. According to Department Order 002-2024 issued on Friday and signed by Duterte, administrative tasks, such as personnel administration, property and physical facilities custodianship, general administrative support, financial management, records management, and program management are now removed from the workload of teachers "without prejudice to the teacher ancillary tasks as defined by other DepEd issuances, "Accordingly, School Heads and non-teaching personnel shall have the sole responsibility to perform the administrative tasks [that were enumerated]," the order read. "School division offices may cluster deployed non-teaching personnel in accordance with the deployment parameters of the Bureau of Human Resources and Organizational Development or hire contract of service or job [...]
Hefty oil price hike next week: P2.10/l for gas
Consumers can expect pump prices to go up again next week, with gasoline expected to rise by as much as P2.10 per liter to reflect the movement of prices in the world market for oil. Industry sources said that based on the four-day trading of the Mean of Platts Singapore, the pricing benchmark used by oil importers, domestic pump prices will increase by P1.95 to P2.10 per liter for gasoline, P0.65 to P0.85 per liter for diesel and P0.20 to P0.30 per liter for kerosene starting Jan. 30, 2024 Department of Energy director for the Oil Industry Management Bureau Rodela Romero confirmed the impending oil price hike and attributed it to several international oil market developments. Romero said the reduction in the US crude stockpile, the issuance of a [...]
Imee Marcos convinced Romualdez’ office behind people’s initiative
Metro Manila, Philippines– Senator Imee Marcos believes the office of House Speaker Martin Romualdez is behind the funding and timeline planning of the people’s initiative to amend the 1987 Constitution. Asked by reporters in a Friday press conference if she was convinced Romualdez was behind the signature campaign, she said: “Definitely, yung opisina niya yung nag-alok ng ₱20 million kada distrito, definitely nanggaling sa kanila yung very attenuated timeline na July 9 tapos na ang lahat.” [Translation: His office is the one that provided ₱20 million for each district, it also came up with the timeline which sought to conclude the initiative by July 9. “So definitely, that derived from his office with very clear numbers identifying the staff members and attorneys involved,” she added. Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa [...]
VP Duterte declares she’ll run again for office ‘in the next elections’
Vice President Sara Duterte —Photo from Inday Sara Duterte/Facebook Manila, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte has declared she will run for office again “in the next elections.” Duterte revealed her political plan during a flag-raising ceremony in Barangay Bago Gallera, Davao City on Monday. “Narinig ko na sinabi ng aking kapatid, si Mayor Baste (Sebastian Duterte), at ng aking mas matandang kapatid, si Congressman Pulong (Paolo Duterte), na hindi sila tatakbo. Baka hindi sila tatakbo sa susunod na eleksyon, kaya’t narito ako sa inyong harap dahil mangangampanya ako sa inyo dahil tatakbo ako sa susunod na eleksyon,” Duterte said in a speech in Bisaya. (I heard that my sibling, Mayor Baste, and my elder sibling, Congressman Pulong, mentioned that they won’t run. Maybe they won’t run in the [...]
Bill for ‘self-reliant’ PH defense posture gets final House nod
(MANILA BULLETIN/ Mark Balmores) The proposed Philippine Self-Reliant Defense Posture Program--one of four remaining bills on the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) list--has been overwhelmingly approved on third and final reading by the House of Representatives. Embodied in House Bill (HB) No. 9713, the measure was passed during plenary session Tuesday, Jan. 23, or just the second session day of the year. The measure, which aims to boost the country’s national defense industry, garnered 194 affirmative votes during nominal voting. Only three House members voted in the negative, while there were zero abstentions. The three remaining LEDAC measures out of the list of 57 are the bill proposing amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, which is under technical working group finalization; and Budget Modernization Bill [...]
Palace creates new offices for intel agency
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the creation of a new office under the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) that will cover counterintelligence, cyber intelligence, and countering weapons of mass destruction in a bid to “adapt to the evolving threats to national security.” “There is a need to reorganize the NICA to ensure a more vigorous intelligence collection, intensify internal and external coordination, and prepare intelligence and security assessments and estimates using data analytics to ensure national security and promote the national interest,” Mr. Marcos said in Executive Order (EO) No. 54 The EO establishes an Office of the Deputy Director General (ODGG) for Cyber and Emerging Threats under NICA. “Cyber threats—that is really an emerging problem. We need to coordinate with our foreign and domestic counterparts for this,” [...]
LTO chief eyeing registration of all electronic bikes due to accidents
Land Transportation Office chief Vigor Mendoza The Land Transportation Office (LTO) said it is considering the mandatory registration of all kinds of electronic bikes or e-bikes. LTO chief Vigor Mendoza, quoted by Unang Balita, said this was due to the high number of accidents involving e-bikes “If the vehicle is running less than 25 kilometers per hour, you don’t have to register it with the LTO, although we’d like to deviate from that thinking,” Mendoza said. From January to November last year, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) recorded 556 accidents related to e-bikes in the National Capital Region (NCR). At present, e-bike drivers are not required to have a license. Mendoza said the LTO is coming up with a proposal that e-bikes should be registered regardless [...]
Senate releases manifesto vs ‘sinister’ people’s initiative
Metro Manila, Philippines— All of the country’s senators issued a manifesto on Tuesday rejecting the push for Charter change via people’s initiative as they warned of a no-election scenario and amendments that are seen to “erode the nation as we know it.” The manifesto signed by all 24 lawmakers at the upper chamber said senators respect and recognize the people’s right to demand changes in the 1987 Constitution, but warned against "any sinister and underhanded attempt to change the Constitution by exploiting our democratic process under the guise of a people's initiative. “This so-called ‘people's’ initiative (PI) proposes only one change: in acting as a constituent assembly, the Senate and the House shall vote jointly. While it seems simple, the goal is apparent -- to make it easier [...]
Marcos: ICC a threat to PH sovereignty
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the national government will "not lift a finger" to assist the International Criminal Court (ICC), calling the tribunal a threat to sovereignty. "Let me say this for the 100th time, I do not recognize the jurisdiction of the ICC in the Philippines. I consider it as a threat to our sovereignty, therefore, the Philippine government will not lift a finger to help any investigation the ICC conducts," Marcos told reporters on Tuesday. "However, as ordinary people, they can come and visit the Philippines pero hindi kami tutulong sa kanila [but we will not help them]. In fact, binabantayan namin sila [we're keeping an eye on them]," the president said when asked if the ICC agents were already in the country. [...]
DepEd to push for enhancing youth engagement, fostering peace in IDE 2024
For this year’s celebration of the International Day of Education (IDE), the Department of Education (DepEd) will highlight the urgent need to improve the engagement of Filipino youth in education. (DepEd file photo) Observed annually on Jan. 24, the IDE aims to underscore the important role of education in peace and development. In a Facebook post, DepEd announced that its External Partnerships Service-International Cooperation Office (EPS-ICO) will spearhead the celebration of IDE 2024 through a forum. With the theme “Education in the Transformative Times: Making Early Grade Learning Contribute to Lasting Peace,” DepEd said the “IDE 2024 Forum is a call for action to bring individuals, civil society, and policymakers to take solid steps towards ensuring that primary and secondary education is given to children, as well as improving [...]
PBBM expands aid plan for street dwellers
DSWD seeks to double beneficiaries to 5,000 this year President Marcos ordered the expansion of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s “Pag-abot” Program to ensure the effective delivery of services to disadvantaged and vulnerable street dwellers. “The Pag-abot Program is hereby institutionalized as a platform for an enhanced and unified delivery of services to vulnerable and disadvantaged children, individuals, and families in street situations, through provision of social safety nets and protection against risks brought about by poverty,” Mr. Marcos said in Executive Order No. 52 According to data released by DSWD Undersecretary Edu Punay, the Pag-abot program was able to take 1,722 people out of the streets of Metro Manila from June to December 2023 out of 2,695 profiled individuals. Punay told Manila Standard the agency is [...]
Holy Mass kicks off Sinulog Festival
Cebu City: A Holy Mass kicked off the 2024 Sinulog Grand Parade Celebration held at the South Road Properties. The Sinulog Festival is an annual cultural and religious event celebrated on the third Sunday of January in Cebu City that serves as the focal point of the Philippines' observance of the feast of Santo Niño or the Child Jesus The Santo Niño de Cebu is the oldest Christian artifact in the Philippines, given to Rajah Humabon (baptized as Carlos) and his wife and principal consort, Hara Humamay (baptized as Juana), by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 in recognition of their Christian baptism. Photo by Moises Cruz The much awaited 17 contingents will participate in the grand parade this afternoon. For the Sinulog-based category these are: 1. Abellana [...]
Another oil price hike seen next week
Metro Manila, Philippines — Another increase in pump prices is expected next week, according to a forecast by Unioil Petroleum Philippines Inc. on Saturday. Unioil said gasoline may cost 90 centavos to ₱1.10 per liter more, while diesel may go up by 70 to 90 centavos per liter. The price adjustments are expected from Jan. 23 to 29, it addedThe Department of Energy's Jan. 16 data showed that the price movements have resulted in a year-to-date increase of 30 centavos per liter for gasoline, 60 centavos per liter for diesel, and a decrease of 40 centavos per liter for kerosene.
Metro Manila Traffic Ranked Worst In The World – 2023 Study
Metro Manila traffic is the worst in the world for a metropolitan area, according to a 2023 study. Photo: Philippine News Agency This study is by TomTom Traffic, a povider of detailed traffic information. It revealed that in 2023, the average travel time in Metro Manila was 25 minutes and 30 seconds per 10 kilometers, marking an additional 50 seconds from the 2022 recorded data of 24 minutes and 50 seconds. With a congestion level of 52 percent and an average speed of only 19 kph during rush hours, commuters in Metro Manila lose an average of 117 hours per year due to traffic. Following Metro Manila’s traffic congestion are Lima (Peru) with an average travel time of 24 minutes and 20 seconds per 10 km, and [...]
Jinggoy Estrada cleared of plunder, guilty of bribery
Metro Manila, Philippines — While the Sandiganbayan acquitted Senator Jinggoy Estrada of plunder in the multimillion-peso scandal involving discretionary funds for pet projects of lawmakers, the court found him guilty of direct and indirect bribery The anti-graft court handed down its verdict on Friday, almost a decade after the case was filed in June 2014. During an ambush interview after hearing the court's decision, Estrada said he was "elated" as he was exonerated from the major case slapped against him. "I'm not guilty of anything. I did not steal any money," Estrada told reporters. Two state witnesses, including an employee of businesswoman and alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim Napoles, implicated Estrada in the controversy. Napoles herself is serving time over the scam. The senator was accused of [...]
China, Philippines seek better communication, management of conflicts in South China Sea
National flags are placed outside a room where Philippine Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez and China's Commerce Minister Gao Hucheng address reporters after their meeting in Beijing, China, January 23, 2017. REUTERS/Damir Sagolj/File Photo Acquire Licensing Rights, opens new tab BEIJING/MANILA- China and the Philippines agreed to improve maritime communication and to properly manage conflicts and differences through friendly talks in regards to issues around the South China Sea, their foreign ministries said in a statement. China Assistant Foreign Minister Nong Rong and Philippines Foreign Ministry undersecretary Theresa Lazaro held a frank and in-depth exchange of views on the situation while co-chairing the eighth meeting of the China-Philippines Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea in Shanghai, according to statements released by the Chinese and Philippine foreign ministries. In [...]
Manibela: We will not abandon drivers of unconsolidated PUVs
A jeepney driver gestures as he takes part in a protest against the jeepney modernisation plan in Manila on January 16, 2024. Philippine jeepney drivers staged a noisy protest in the capital Manila on January 16 over the government's plan to phase out the smoke-belching vehicles nationwide and replace them with modern mini-buses. (Photo by JAM STA ROSA / AFP) Manibela on Wednesday vowed to storm the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRAB) should the agencies apprehend operators and drivers of unconsolidated franchises that continue to operate after the Jan. 31 consolidation deadline. Manibela president Mar Valbuena said: “We really do not know what will happen on Feb. 1. It is beyond our control if they still ply the streets [...]
Rice may hit P60/kilo, group says; DA pushes P1.3t for harvest tools
Prices of regular-milled rice could reach P60 per kilo, the watchdog group Bantay Bigas warned Wednesday as it urged the government to monitor the prices of the staple. Bantay Bigas spokesperson Cathy Estavillo said prices of regular-milled rice in large markets in the National Capital Region now range from P54-P55 per kilo “In other markets, P60 is already their cheapest (for well-milled). The premium varieties range from P65 to P68. But the P54 is already a heavy burden on the pockets of our kababayan,” she said in a radio interview. “Prices can increase even more given that we are facing an El Niño phenomenon,” Estavillo added. She appealed to the government to ensure that the price of regular-milled rice does not hit P60 per kilo. For his part, [...]
400 cities, municipalities received signed people’s initiative forms for Cha-cha – Comelec
Metro Manila, Philippines— Some 400 cities and towns nationwide have already received as of Wednesday signed forms seeking amendments to the 1987 Constitution under a people's initiative, the Commision on Elections (Comelec) said. “Actually po hindi lang po sa Mandaue…Ngayong araw na ito, apat na daan na siyudad at munisipyo sa buong bansa ang nakatanggap na ng mga signature forms at signature pages,” Comelec Chairman George Garcia told CNN Philippines’ Newsroom Ngayon. [Translation: Actually po, not just in Mandaue…As of this day, 400 cities and municipalities in the country have already received the signature forms and signature pages. He said the Comelec is currently trying to classify the submitted forms according to district. “Dahil premature po at this point eh, [kung 'yan] ay kabilang sa isang distrito o ilang [...]
P450 billion unprogrammed funds challenged before SC
In a 27-page petition for certiorari and prohibition, Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman and co-petitioners Camarines Sur Rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr. and Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman argued that increasing the original amount of unprogrammed funds is prohibited under Section 25.1, Article 6 of the Constitution. Philstar.com / EC Toledo Manila, Philippines — Minority lawmakers are asking the Supreme Court to nullify the P449.5 billion in unprogrammed allocation in the national budget, saying the amount was way above the P289.1 billion originally proposed, making it unconstitutional. In a 27-page petition for certiorari and prohibition, Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman and co-petitioners Camarines Sur Rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr. and Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman argued that increasing the original amount of unprogrammed funds is prohibited under Section 25.1, Article 6 of [...]
Canada issues travel advisory for PH over crime, terrorism, civil unrest
The Canadian government is advising its citizens who will travel to the Philippines to exercise a high degree of caution due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping in some areas. In its advisory dated January 10, the Canadian government told its citizens to “avoid all travel” in the following areas in the Philippines Basilan Sulu Tawi-Tawi Lanao del Sur Maguindanao Bukidnon Camiguin Lanao del Norte Misamis Occidental Misamis Oriental Cotabato Sarangani South Cotabato Zamboanga del Norte Zamboanga del Sur Zamboanga Sibugay Sultan Kudarat With the “avoid all travel’ category, Canadians should not travel to these areas as their personal safety and security are at great risk. Citizens who are already in the area were advised to leave. Meanwhile, Canadians are also advised to “avoid non-essential travel” to the [...]
DepEd, SM Supermalls mull partnership on K-12 students’ immersion
Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte met with officials of SM Supermalls to discuss the possibility of the retail chain giant offering an immersion program and employment for graduates of the country’s K to 12 program Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte (center) tackles the possible partnership of the Department of Education (DepEd) and SM Supermalls on the immersion of K to 12 students. (Photo from Inday Sara Duterte/Facebook) In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Jan. 17, the Vice President shared photos of her recent meeting with SM Supermalls executives, headed by Hannah Sy, at the Office of the Vice President (OVP) in Mandaluyong City and expressed gratitude for the company’s plan to support K-12 graduates. “Napag-usapan din namin ang posibling partnership ng Department [...]
Taiwan’s multiple-entry visas now open for OFWs
Taiwan has allowed multiple visa entry for foreign workers, including overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) based there According to a report by the Migrant Workers Office in Kaohsiung, the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) said that more than 150,000 OFWs could apply for these visas. MECO said that the multiple-entry individual visa allows the holder to travel to a country more than once and as often as preferred throughout the validity of the visa.MECO reminded OFWs who will leave Taiwan for vacation to inform their manpower agencies at least three weeks before their scheduled departure so that their resident certificate could be processed and be given the multiple-entry visa. — VDV, GMA Integrated News
LAWMAKERS TO HIGH COURT: ‘Void P449.5B excess funds’
SEVERAL members of the House of Representatives minority bloc filed a petition before the Supreme Court questioning the constitutionality of the P449.5-billion unprogrammed funds in the 2024 budget. In a petition for certiorari and prohibition filed on Monday, Rep. Edcel Lagman (Albay 1st District), Rep. Mujiv Hataman (Basilan Lone District), and Rep. Gabriel Bordado (Camarines Sur 3rd District) said the unprogrammed funds allocated by Congress constitute a grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of congressional jurisdiction They claimed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. only proposed a ceiling of P281.908 billion for unprogrammed appropriations in the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP) and that the constitution prohibits Congress from exceeding the ceiling of the appropriations proposed by the President. "[Th]e unprogrammed appropriations are used as a sanctuary for [...]
China tells Marcos: Don’t ‘play with fire’ over Taiwan issue
Metro Manila, Philippines — China warned President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. not to “play with fire” after his congratulatory remarks to Taiwan's President-elect and pro-sovereignty leader Lai Ching-te. “We would like to make it clear to the Philippines that it should refrain from playing with fire on the Taiwan question,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in a press conference Tuesday. The Chinese official also urged the Philippines to “stop the wrong words and deeds” regarding Taiwan-related issues as it may send the wrong signal to the separatists forces of Taiwan For Mao Ning, Marcos’ move violated Philippines’ political commitments to China and interfered into China’s internal affairs. Earlier that day, the spokesperson also said they have summoned Philippine Ambassador to Beijing Jaime FlorCruz on Tuesday for an explanation [...]
UN special rep for freedom set to visit country
FOR FREEDOM. A group of media practitioners, artists, and press freedom and freedom of expression advocates hold placards during a press conference. The group shares issues on attacks on freedom of expression and opinion in the country in time for the official visit of Irene Khan, UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression. Manny Palmero United Nations Special Rapporteur (UNSR) freedom of opinion and expression Irene Khan is set to make an official visit to the Philippines from Jan. 23 to Feb. 2. According to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights website, Khan will examine, in the spirit of cooperation and dialogue, the situation of the rights to freedom of opinion and expression in the country The UNSR [...]
2025 budget eyed at ₱6.2 trillion – DBM chief
Metro Manila, Philippines– Next year’s National Expenditure Program (NEP) is being eyed at around ₱6.2 trillion, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said Wednesday. This is an increase of about ₱432 billion compared to the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) worth ₱5.768 trillion. “We’ll review the numbers again but as of now it’s ₱6.2 trillion,” Pangandaman said, referring to the interagency Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC). It is composed of the DBM, the Department of Finance, the National Economic and Development Authority, the Office of the President, and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Asked about the 2025 NEP priorities, Pangandaman said that it would be similar to the 2024 budget with a focus on health, education, and the administration’s infrastructure initiative dubbed Build Better More. She [...]
DepEd issues guidelines for Catch Up Fridays
Teachers watch their students walk along a corridor after a short break at the start of classes at a school in Quezon City, suburban Manila on August 22, 2022 as millions of children in the Philippines returned to school as the academic year started on August 22, with many taking their seats in classrooms for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic hit. AFP / Ted Aljibe Manila, Philippines — The Department of Education has released the guidelines for the implementation of its “Catch Up Fridays” learning intervention program, which will be officially rolled out in public schools nationwide starting January 12. DepEd Memorandum 001 s. 2024 states that the “Catch Up Fridays” program will dedicate half of every Friday to reading and the other half to values, [...]
Imee Marcos reveals timeline for alleged plan to push for cha-cha via people’s initiative
Metro Manila, Philippines — Senator Imee Marcos revealed receiving a detailed timeline about the alleged plan to push to amend the 1987 Constitution, which even included the specific date when the Commission on Elections (Comelec) will prepare for a plebiscite. Speaking to CNN Philippines’ The Source on Friday, Marcos said she initially received an unknown text before Christmas Day detailing a timeline for “Project PI.” “It was fairly detailed, Project PI ang tawag. Timeline, major activities 15 December to 3 January prepare petition, print proposition, signature sheets. Detalyado sya hanggang darating sa February, pag dumating sa February 12 hanggang sa 10 March verify signatures, 11 March and so on,” she said. [Translation: It was fairly detailed, it's called Project PI. Timeline, major activities on 15 December to 3 January [...]
Castro’s grave threats complaint vs. Duterte junked
Metro Manila, Philippines – The Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office has junked ACT-Teachers Rep. France Castro’s grave threats complaint against former President Rodrigo Duterte for lack of sufficient evidence. Castro accused Duterte of threatening to kill her based on statements he made during two airings of his show “Gikan sa Masa” broadcast on the controversial Sonshine Media Network International. Duterte denied Castro’s accusations and was a no-show in both preliminary investigations over the case. He said his statements did not demonstrate actus reus, the actual utterance of threat, and mens rea, or intent to be taken seriously. He also said the lawmaker’s complaint was made for propaganda purposes by staunch critics of his administration. In a resolution obtained by CNN Philippines, prosecutors wrote: “This Office finds the evidence insufficient to indict [...]
Transformation of DND, AFP will go on—Teodoro
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. on Friday said transformation of the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be sustain throughout 2024. Teodoro issued the statement as he led the traditional joint New Year’s Call of the DND) and the AFP in Camp Aguinaldo, marking the start of the working year In his message, Teodoro said that transforming the whole defense department, with its civilian bureaus and the AFP, will carry on in the new year. “We thank the whole defense family for the cooperation that they have shown last year in the midst of our attempts to transform our organization into a new defense organization with new skills, [...]
PH, Indonesia discussed South China Sea developments — Marcos
Photo by Anna Felicia Bajo/GMA Integrated News President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Indonesian President Joko Widodo met on Wednesday and discussed a range of regional issues, including developments in the South China Sea and closer cooperation among member states of the Southeast Asian bloc. In a joint press statement in Malacañang after the two leaders' bilateral meeting, Marcos said they had a fruitful and honest discussion about events in the South China Sea, saying that they both stood by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. ''President Widodo and I had a fruitful and honest discussion on regional events of mutual interest such as the developments in South China Sea and ASEAN cooperation and initiative,'' Marcos said. ''And speaking of ASEAN, as founding members [...]
Traslacion draws 6 million devotees after 3-year hiatus
Metro Manila, Philippines— The number of devotees participating in the Feast of the Black Nazarene reached more than six million, as the tradition returned after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The image of the Black Nazarene left the Quirino Grandstand at Rizal Park around 4:45 a.m. on Tuesday and reached the Quiapo Church after nearly 15 hours at 7:44 p.m., making it the shortest Traslacion or grand procession recorded in the recent years. The previous record was in 2016 when the procession took around 16 hours due to an early start and shorter route. But the procession in 2012 remains the longest in history after the image of the Black Nazarene took 22 hours to arrive at the church. Based on the accumulative count from midnight [...]
PH growth seen slowing this year
PHILIPPINE growth will likely slow this year but remain one of the highest among the Asean-6 economies that include Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand, DBS Bank Ltd. said. In a January outlook for the six Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) countries, the Singaporean multinational forecast Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 5.3 percent for 2024, short of the government's target of 6.5-7.5 percent and moderating from the expected 5.8 percent for last year Full-year GDP results will be released at the end of this month. As of end-October, growth remained below target at 5.5 percent. "[T]he Philippines will stand out with slower 2024 expansion, dampened by the lagged impact of high interest rates, following the most aggressive monetary tightening cycle in the region," DBS said. GDP [...]
US, Chinese military officers resume talks as agreed by Biden and Xi
In this photo proved by the Defense Department, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia Michael Chase hosts delegates from China for the annual U.S.-PRC Defense Policy Coordination Talks at the Pentagon on Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024. U.S. and Chinese military officers have resumed talks that were frozen after former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan in 2022. It’s a development U.S. officials have said is key to keeping the growing competition between the two great powers from turning into direct conflict. (Petty Officer 1st Class Alexander Kubitza/U.S. Navy via A.P.) WASHINGTON — U.S. and Chinese military officers have resumed talks frozen after former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan in the summer of 2022, a development U.S. officials have said is key [...]
Meralco hikes power rate in January
Customers of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) should expect higher electricity bills this month after the power distributor hiked its household power rate amid higher generation costs. In an advisory, Meralco said it adjusted its rate by 8.46 centavos per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for January, bringing the overall overall rate for a typical household to P11.3430 per kWh from P11.2584 per kWh in December. The upward adjustment could translate to an increment of P17 in this month’s bill of a residential customer consuming 200 kWh. Meralco attributed the rate increase to higher generation charge, which inched up by 11.36 centavos to P6.6468 per kWh from P6.5332 per kWh last month, “owing to higher cost of power from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) and Independent Power Producers (IPPs).” In particular, WESM [...]
Rep. Duterte junks PI for Cha-cha
DAVAO CITY – Rep. Paolo Z. Duterte here has disagreed with the People’s Initiative for constitutional amendments. In a statement on Tuesday night, January 9, Duterte said that someone informed him that PBA party-list Rep. Margarita “Migs” Nograles is spearheading the PI in this city. “This so-called People’s Initiative for Charter change (Cha-cha) is nothing but pure PI,” Duterte said There has been a resurgence in the push for Cha-cha in the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to modify the Constitution’s perceived “restrictive” economic provisions. Cha-cha includes political and legal procedures for modifying clauses in the 1987 Constitution. Article 17 of the 1987 Constitution states that amendments cannot occur within five years of its ratification nor more frequently than once every five years after that. The Constitution [...]
BIR waives annual registration fee for business taxpayers
This photo shows a picture of people lining up at the Bureau of Internal Revenue in Manila to file their income tax returns. The STAR / File photo Manila, Philippines — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) announced on Tuesday that it has scrapped its annual registration fee (ARF) paid by business taxpayers. According to an advisory signed by BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui on January 8, business taxpayers are no longer required to pay the P500 ARF starting January 22. The BIR said the change complies with the Republic Act No. 11976 or the "Ease of Paying Taxes Act,” signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on January 5. The Ease of Paying Taxes Act has simplified the tax payment process, enabling taxpayers to file their tax returns electronically [...]
PH, Indonesia tackle South China Sea, Myanmar, Gaza in ministerial meet
(Photo from DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo's Twitter account) Metro Manila, Philippines— The Philippines and Indonesia agreed to strengthen cooperation to address common challenges and global concerns at the 7th Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) held in Manila on Tuesday. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi spearheaded the JCBC ahead of the arrival of Indonesian President Joko Widodo for his three-day official visit to Manila. The last JCBC meeting between Philippine and Indonesian foreign ministers was held in 2014 In a post-meeting statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs said that the JCBC serves as the primary dialogue mechanism between the Philippines and Indonesia to review accomplishments on mutual collaboration initiatives. Participants in the JCBC discussed the progress of the Philippine-Indonesia Plan [...]
Philippines, US conduct 2nd joint maritime patrol in West Philippine Sea
This photo shows a sailing U.S. Pacific Fleet. US Navy Manila, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced on Wednesday their second maritime cooperative activity with the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) in the West Philippine Sea. According to an official statement from the AFP, this joint operation will involve a range of strategic exercises. They will conduct passing exercises, communication checks, cross-deck exercises, joint patrols, Officer of the Watch maneuvers, and fixed-wing flight operations in conjunction with USINDOPACOM. "The 2nd maritime cooperative activity marks a significant leap in our alliance and interoperability with the United States. It also demonstrates our progress in defense capabilities and development as a world-class armed force, as we carry out our mandate to protect the people and the state," AFP [...]
Pimentel to petition SC to nix P450b in unprogrammed funds
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said he would file a petition before the Supreme Court this week to challenge as unconstitutional the additional P450 billion in unprogrammed funds in the 2024 national budget. “The target is this week, but of course, it depends on the lawyers’ readiness,” Pimentel said about the timing of his petition. He also said he has been talking to a member of the House of Representatives who wants to join him in filing a case Earlier, Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman said he agreed with Pimentel on the “fatal defects” brought about by the unprogrammed funds, but the senator said it wasn’t Lagman he was talking to. Pimentel said the budget ran afoul of the Constitution on [...]
PH debt hit ₱14.5T in November 2023
Metro Manila, Philippines - The country’s debt has skyrocketed to ₱14.51 trillion as of November 2023, which is 0.19% higher than the ₱14.35 trillion logged in October 2023. In a statement, the Bureau of the Treasury said the rise was “primarily due to the net issuance of domestic securities. Of the total borrowings, 30.91% were sourced externally while 69.09% were from local sources. The country’s domestic debt stood at ₱10.02 trillion, which is 1.3% higher than the October figure of ₱9.79 trillion “due to the net issuance of government securities.” Meanwhile, the November foreign debt dipped to ₱4.48 trillion, or 2.06% lower than October’s ₱4.56 trillion, because of net repayment of foreign loans and favorable foreign exchange movements. Year-on-year, the country’s total debt ballooned by ₱864.56 billion.
China, US announce military patrols in disputed South China Sea
This aerial photo shows part of the Subi Reef and Chinese vessels identified by the Philippines as "maritime militia" near Thitu Island in the disputed South China Sea on December 1, 2023. (Photo by JAM STA ROSA / AFP) Beijing and Washington both announced military deployments in the South China Sea on Wednesday, following heightened tensions between China and the Philippines in the disputed waterway. China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command said it had “organised naval and air forces to conduct routine patrols” in the sea from January 3 to 4. The United States meanwhile announced that a carrier strike group led by the USS Carl Vinson was conducting two days of drills with the Philippine Navy “The US Navy regularly conducts exercises like [...]
Phivolcs: No tsunami threat to Philippines from Japan quake
No tsunami threat to the Philippines has been detected following a massive earthquakethat hit central Japan and its western coast on Monday afternoon, Phivolcs said. In an advisory, the monitoring agency said that the 7.4 quake struck at 3:10 p.m. Philippines time (4:10 p.m. Japan time) near Honshu's west coast. According to Japanese public broadcaster NHK, the quake triggered waves of around 1 meter along parts of the Sea of Japan coast with a larger wave expected. The Japan Meteorological Agency, which measured a preliminary magnitude of 7.6, issued tsunami warnings for the coastal prefectures of Ishikawa, Niigata and Toyama. Russia also issued tsunami warnings in its far eastern cities of Vladivostok and Nakhodka. — BM, GMA News
Major Japan quake prompts tsunami warning, residents told to run
TOKYO: A powerful 7.5 earthquake hit central Japan on Monday, the USGS said, prompting tsunami warnings and authorities to urge people in the area to move to higher ground. "All residents must evacuate immediately to higher ground," national broadcaster NHK said after the quake hit the Noto region in Ishikawa prefecture around 4:10 p.m. (0710 GMT) Hazardous tsunami waves were possible within 300 kilometers (190 miles) of the quake's epicenter along the Japan coast, the Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said. A tsunami of 1.2 meters was confirmed to have arrived in Wajima city in Ishikawa prefecture. But a much higher tsunami of five meters was expected to arrive in Noto in the same region, the Japan Meterological Agency (JMA) said. The JMA said the Noto region, on the [...]
China warns PH against building permanent structure on Ayungin Shoal
Metro Manila, Philippines — Beijing has warned it will not sit idly by should Manila push through with its plan to build a permanent civilian structure on Ayungin Shoal, a disputed feature in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) which has seen heightened tensions between both sides this year. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning told the press on Friday that such a “major move” by the Philippines would “severely infringe” on China’s sovereignty and would prompt the latter to take resolute measures. “Ren’ai Jiao is an uninhabited shoal,” Mao said, referring to the name China uses for Ayungin. “According to the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea signed by China and ASEAN countries, parties should keep Ren’ai Jiao uninhabited and facility-free. The official was citing [...]
Manalo, Blinken discuss stronger PH-US ties, tension in SCS
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken talked on the phone on Thursday and discussed strengthening cooperation between the Philippines and the US in the New Year 2024. The call came in the wake of a series of statements by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs claiming that the Philippines committed provocative actions in the West Philippine Sea "Secretary Blinken underscored the United States’ ironclad commitments to the Philippines under our Mutual Defense Treaty," the readout read. "Secretary Blinken and Secretary Manalo also exchanged ideas on how to reinforce U.S.-Philippines cooperation in the coming year, building on President Marcos’s official working visit to Washington, D.C., this past May," it added. "Secretary Manalo reaffirmed the Philippines’ abiding interest to protect its sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction, [...]
Go cites importance of Regional Speciality Center Law to close gaps in health services
Senator Christopher Go Senator Christopher Go said the newly-signed Republic Act No. 11959 or the Regional Specialty Centers Law will bridge the gaps in Philippine healthcare services. Go, in a statement, emphasized the need for the law, stating, “As the principal sponsor and one of the authors of the measure together with no less than Senate President Migz Zubiri, I have long recognized the need to bring specialized medical services to more poor and indigent Filipino patients, most of them living outside Metro Manila where most, if not all, of our national specialty centers are found. Go is the principal sponsor and one of the authors of the law which was recently signed by [...]
Quiapo Church bares Black Nazarene route on Traslacion 2024
The Quiapo Church on Thursday bared the route for the 2024 Black Nazarene Traslacion procession on January 9. For the year’s celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene, the church will use the same route for the grand procession in 2020. The 400-year-old image will take the following route: From Quirino Grandstand Right to Katigbak Drive (left side) Right to Padre Burgos St. through Finance Road Straight to Ayala Bridge Left to Palanca St. Right to Quezon Boulevard Right to Arlegui Street Right to Fraternal Street Right to Vergara Street Left to Duque de Alba Street Left to Castillejos Street Left to Farnecio Street Right to Arlegui Street Left to Nepomuceno Street Left to Conception Aguila Street Right to Carcer Street Right to Hidalgo through Plaza del Carmen [...]
BIR slaps 1% withholding tax on online merchants
In its latest revenue regulation, the BIR is imposing a withholding tax on gross remittances made by electronic marketplace operators and digital financial service providers to sellers or merchants for goods and services sold or paid through the former’s platform and facility. STAR / File Manila, Philippines — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has officially imposed a one percent withholding tax on online platform providers as part of government efforts to tap digital transactions for economic growth. In its latest revenue regulation, the BIR is imposing a withholding tax on gross remittances made by electronic marketplace operators and digital financial service providers to sellers or merchants for goods and services sold or paid through the former’s platform and facility. In April this year, the BIR had [...]
Poll: Pro-admin sentiment drops to 46% in Q3
There has been a “noteworthy shift” in pro-administration sentiment among Filipinos, which has declined from 50 percent in the third quarter of 2022 to 46 percent in the same period in 2023, the Pahayag End of Year survey showed. PUBLiCUS Asia Inc., which conducted the non-commissioned survey and released the results Thursday, also said anti-administration sentiment remained “stable” at 18%, while those adopting a neutral stance increased from 30% to 36% during the same period Economic concerns, including price inflation, joblessness, low wages, and a perceived lack of productivity, emerge as driving factors behind the changing political landscape, the survey said. These issues, left unaddressed by the administration, have prompted a notable migration of pro-administration voters toward neutrality, PUBLiCUS Asia said. In regional breakdowns, the National Capital Region (NCR) [...]
LTFRB sets conditions allowing unconsolidated PUV operators to ply roads until end-January 2024
Metro Manila, Philippines— The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued new guidelines regarding the implementation of the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program with only three days left for the consolidation deadline. Under Memorandum Circular no. 2023-052, "unconsolidated individual operators in routes with less than 60% consolidated NAU (number of authorized units) shall be allowed to operate until 31 January 2024." The LTFRB Board will issue a list of routes with less than 60% consolidated NAU, the order read. PUV operators in routes with no consolidated transport entities will also be allowed to ply roads until the end of January 2024. The LTFRB said its board and Regional Franchising Regulatory Offices will issue show cause orders during the period to the unconsolidated individual operators in compliance [...]
DOTr Gets 4 Proposals For P170.6-B NAIA Rehab
The winning bidder for the project will be given a concession period of 15 years, extendable by 10 years, to operate and maintain Ninoy Aquino International Airport and expand its passenger capacity to 62 million yearly, from 32 million at present The Philippine STAR file photo shows the façade of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has received four proposals for the P170.6-billion privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Bidders Manila International Airport Consortium (MIAC), Asian Airport Consortium, GMR Airports Consortium and San Miguel Corp. (SMC) SAP & Co. Consortium are affiliated with some of the most prominent conglomerates in the country. MIAC is composed of Aboitiz InfraCapital, AC Infrastructure Holdings Corp., Alliance Global’s Infracorp Development Inc., Asia’s Emerging Dragon Corp., Filinvest Development [...]
500,000 MT rice arriving from India, Taiwan
Workers store sacks of local premium rice at a rice mill warehouse in Bocaue, Bulacan on September 8, 2023. STAR / Michael Varcas Manila, Philippines — Nearly 500,000 metric tons of rice from Taiwan and India will arrive beginning this month until February 2024, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said yesterday. This is in preparation for the possible impact of the El Niño phenomenon on palay production. “We received reports that around 100,000 tons of imported rice have already arrived in the country. This is part of the 495,000 MT committed by import permit holders to (Agriculture) Secretary (Francisco) Tiu Laurel,” DA Undersecretary Roger Navarro said in a statement yesterday Meanwhile, a total of 20,000 bags – equivalent to 1,000 MT – delivered before Christmas Day constituted the [...]
DILG urges strict enforcement of fireworks ban
People watch fireworks illuminate the sky at Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, Metro Manila on December 22, 2023. AFP / Jam Sta. Rosa Manila, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on cities and municipalities to strictly enforce their respective ordinances prohibiting the use of harmful fireworks to ensure safe New Year festivities. Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos issued the call Wednesday as the number of fireworks-related injuries reached 75 just days before New Year's Eve. According to the DILG, at least 1,210 local government units (LGUs) have ordinances in place banning the use of harmful firecrackers "Make sure that these ordinances are enforced. Let's put teeth into these ordinances against dangerous fireworks," Abalos said in Filipino. "These policies are meaningless if we do not [...]
Ex-president top Senate bet in 2025
FORMER president Rodrigo Duterte is the top choice for senator in the 2025 midterm elections, a survey conducted by Publicus Asia Inc. showed. The polling firm said its Pahayag End of Year voting disposition survey showed that the former president got the "vote" of 48 percent of the respondents and an "impressive" trust rating of 59 percent Following closely is Anti-Crime and Terrorism Community Involvement and Support party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo, who secured a 44 percent voting predisposition and a parallel 44 percent trust rating. Dr. Willie Ong, the former vice presidential candidate and cardiologist, secured a substantial 43 percent voting predisposition and a commendable 50 percent trust rating. "Notably, Erwin Tulfo experienced a drop in support in Mindanao, sliding from 50 percent to 44 percent," the polling firm [...]
Holiday hopes drop, but 92% see much better 2024 — Pulse Asia
Manila, Philippines — While the number of Filipinos who expect their holiday celebrations in 2023 to be more prosperous than last year declined, an overwhelming majority remain confident that life in 2024 will be much better, according to a recent survey from Pulse Asia. Reports released by Pulse Asia on Friday showed that only 30 percent of respondents believe they would be having better celebrations in 2023 compared to 2022 — down from the 43 percent registered in November 2022. This accounts for a 13-point drop. Belief in better celebrations for 2023 decreased the most in Visayas, from 66 percent in 2022 to 42 percent in 2023 (-24 points), followed by Mindanao (from 46 percent to 31 percent), National Capital Region (NCR) (from 32 percent to 18 percent), [...]
No merry Christmas: Hefty oil price hike seen next week
Department of Energy (DOE) Oil Industry Management Bureau assistant director Rodela Romero said results of four-day trading showed potential increases of over P1 per liter for diesel, gasoline and kerosene next week. Philstar.com / Irra Lising,file Manila, Philippines — Hefty price increases at the pumps await motorists for the final week of 2023. Department of Energy (DOE) Oil Industry Management Bureau assistant director Rodela Romero said results of four-day trading showed potential increases of over P1 per liter for diesel, gasoline and kerosene next week. Specifically, prices of gasoline and diesel are both expected to rise by P1.40 to P1.60 per liter, while that of kerosene could go up by P1.60 to P1.80 per liter Romero said these come as oil prices surge amid growing avoidance of [...]
PH, U.S. in discussion for possible F-16 fighter jets procurement
Metro Manila, Philippines – Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez has revealed that there are 'open discussions' on Manila’s possible procurement of F-16 fighter jets from Washington. The diplomat said that should the deal push through, it would be a big boost to the country's air defense capabilities. Security officials earlier said the Philippines is trying to build up defense capability, play catch up by modernizing its armed forces, and establish robust presence in the country's exclusive economic zone particularly in the West Philippine Sea where there is simmering maritime row with China. "Yung F-16 matagal na nating gusto yan ang ating Air Force hinihintay na nila," said Romualdez in an interview with CNN Philippines on Friday.. [Translation: Our Air Force has been wanting the F-16 fighter [...]
Vice President Sara reiterates stand vs ‘traitors’ CPP-NPA-NDF
Vice President Sara Duterte Inday Sara Duterte / Facebook page Manila, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte has again spoken strongly against the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), its armed component New People’s Army (NPA) as well as its political wing the National Democratic Front (NDF) following the death of a soldier in Batangas. In a video message posted on her official Facebook account Thursday night, Duterte described the CPP, NPA and NDF as “traitor,” “deceiving,” and “violent” enemies who wreak havoc in communities. “We wholeheartedly recognize and honor the bravery, heroism and service of Sgt. Jernell Ramillano,” Duterte said in Filipino [...]
Govt’s Charter change plans questioned
Manila, Philippines -The Liberal Party (LP) of the Philippines questioned government plans to amend the 1987 Constitution, saying this would cost the people "time and money." "This will take away resources that could otherwise be used to address rising commodity prices, the education crisis, and new environmental and health threats," the LP said in a statement on Tuesday. "It can also be asked: Is the Constitution to blame on why investors are not approaching us?" they added. "When we open foreign ownership of businesses, are our infrastructures, manpower, and institutions ready for those changes?" They also ask if it is really just the economic provisions that needed to be amended in the Constitution and said the "cha-cha" should not be used to increase the country's bureaucracy. "When the amendment [...]
Online scams top list of 2023 cybercrimes
In a statement, PLDT president and CEO Alfredo Panlilio said the telco company supports the passage of House Bill (HB) 7393 and Senate Bill (SB) 2039 seeking to imprison and penalize money mules. BW / File Manila, Philippines — More than half of cybercrimes documented this year were online scams, data from the police Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) showed. Based on the data, 19,884 cybercrimes were recorded from Jan. 1 to Dec. 7 this year, of which 11,071 cases or 55.67 percent represented online scams. A far second is illegal access in relation to Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Law, which has 3,181 cases or 15.99 percent There were 1,536 computer-related identity theft cases, which comprised 7.72 percent of the total cybercrimes documented. Online libel is at 6.74 [...]
Economy, inflation are Pinoys’ top concerns — survey
Metro Manila, Philippines — Economic concerns are still the biggest worry of Filipinos, according to an end-of-year survey by Publicus Asia Inc. The independent and non-commissioned "PAHAYAG" survey conducted from Nov. 29 to Dec. 4 showed economy and inflation are the top concerns on the macroscale for the majority 15% of respondents. Earlier this month, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that the inflation rate continued its slowdown, dropping to 4.1% in November from 4.9% the month before. This brings the average inflation from January to November to 6.2%, still outside the government's target range of 2% to 4%. Publicus Asia said corruption and poverty are the next top concerns for Filipinos at 12% and 9%, respectively. "Notably, Corruption is least concerning to those with No Formal Education at 5%, while [...]
Marcos: ‘Paradigm shift’ needed in diplomatic efforts with China on WPS row
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines needs a "paradigm shift" in how it deals with China's aggressions in the West Philippine Sea as current diplomatic efforts with Beijing are going "in a poor direction. According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Marcos told Japanese media over the weekend that China's continued disregard of the Philippines' "traditional" diplomatic methods calls for a new approach. "Well, to this point, we have resorted to the traditional methods of diplomacy where, should there be an incident, we send note verbal. Our embassy will send a démarche to the Foreign Affairs (Ministry) office in Beijing, but we have been doing this for many years now, with very little progress," Marcos said. "We have to do [...]
OVP gets ISO-recertification; two satellite offices also certified
The Office of the Vice President (OVP) on Monday, Dec. 18, announced that it has received recertification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Certification 9001:2015, proving that its management system is at par with international standards. (Office of the Vice President/Facebook) In a Facebook post, the OVP said that the office underwent audit sessions last Dec. 6 for the ISO 9001:2015 recertification. Aside from the OVP recertification for the next three years, the OVP Satellite Offices in Davao and Panay and Negros Islands also got certified for the first time. “Ang ISO certification ay iginagawad sa mga organisasyong nagpapamalas ng kakayahan sa pagbibigay serbisyo na may magandang kalidad at sumusunod sa mga batas at regulasyon ng pamahalaan (The ISO certification is given to organizations that showed [...]
Proposed PH-Japan military access deal seen to help maintain peace in West PH Sea — Marcos
Metro Manila, Philippines -President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the proposed Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan will help keep the peace in the West Philippine Sea as China continues to escalate tensions in the disputed waters. During his bilateral meeting with Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, the chief executive said the RAA will boost maritime cooperation between the two countries, and facilitate the procedures and set guidelines when Philippine forces visit Japan for training and joint exercises, and vice versa. "That is something that I believe is very, very significant and that it will bring to us greater capacity to maintain the peace in [the South China Sea],” Marcos said in his preliminary remarks during his talk with Kishida on the sidelines of the 50th Commemorative [...]
‘Kabayan’ makes landfall over Concepcion, Davao Oriental
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said tropical storm Kabayan (international name: Jelawat) made landfall over Concepcion, Davao Oriental at 9:30 a.m., Monday, Dec. 18. PAGASA said in its 8 a.m. bulletin that Kabayan is expected to traverse the rough terrain of Mindanao and emerge over the Sulu Sea between Monday afternoon and evening. Kabayan will then travel south of the Cagayancillo Islands across the Sulu Sea By Tuesday morning or afternoon, Dec. 19, the tropical storm is expected to make another landfall over central or southern Palawan as a tropical depression. It will then re-emerge over the West Philippine Sea. Between Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, Dec. 20, Kabayan may pass close to or over the Kalayaan Islands. As of 8 a.m., tropical cyclone wind [...]
PH trade deficit widened in October as exports fell sharply
Manila, Philippines -The Philippines posted a bigger trade deficit in October compared with a year ago on the back of a sharp contraction in exports while imports recorded a milder decline. The trade gap widened by 26 percent to $4.17 billion in October from $3.3 billion in the same month last year, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported Tuesday. The latest reading was also larger than the $3.58 billion trade gap in September. A trade deficit happens when the country’s import bill is larger than its export sales. Exports plummeted 17.5 percent year-on-year to $6.36 billion during the month, with electronic products registering the steepest decline. The decline in imports was slower at 4.4 percent to $10.54 billion in October. According to the PSA, total external trade declined by [...]
DepEd to distribute P18,000 pay starting Tuesday
FILE PHOTO: Teacher Ann Mariel Foronda guides a kindergarten pupil in writing his name at Pinyahan Elementary School in Quezon City during the resumption of full in-person classes for public schools on November 2, 2022. INQUIRER/NIÑO JESUS ORBETA Manila, Philippines – Qualified employees of the Department of Education (DepEd), including around 900,000 public school teachers, will each receive a special recognition incentive (SRI) of P18,000 starting Tuesday. In a memorandum dated Dec. 15, DepEd said schools division offices would begin processing the additional benefit on Monday, with distribution to follow the next day. The incentive to be given out in cash is in compliance with the Office of the President’s Administrative Order No. 12 which authorizes the “release of a one-time SRI at a uniform rate [...]
LPA may enter PAR within 24 hours — PAGASA
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Saturday, Dec. 16, said the Low Pressure Area (LPA) being monitored outside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) may enter the country within 24 hours In PAGASA's 4 a.m. live broadcast, weather specialist Obet Badrina said the LPA was seen 1,225 kilometers east of Southeastern Mindanao. Badrina added that PAGASA is not ruling out the possibility for the LPA to develop into a tropical cyclone. "Whether or not the LPA may develop into a tropical cyclone, starting tomorrow, it may still bring rains particularly in the eastern portion of Visayas and Mindanao," said Badrina. Meanwhile, the northeast monsoon or "amihan" may still bring isolated light rains in Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, and Cagayan Valley where partly cloudy to [...]
12 days of transport strikes set; PISTON, Manibela to join forces
TRANSPORT JUSTICE. Representatives of the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice, PISTON, Sanlakas, Oriang, Kilusang Mayo Uno, Freedom from Debt Coalition, Move as One, and the Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino stand to dramatize their demands to scrap the PUV Modernization Program in a press conference Friday in Quezon City. Manny Palmero Transport groups PISTON and Manibela on Friday announced they would give the public “12 days of strikes” for Christmas, with plans to launch another transport holiday from Dec. 18 to 29 to protest the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) The announcement comes on the second day of a two-day transport strike by PISTON, and with traffic in Metro Manila and nearby areas expected to worsen amid the Christmas holiday rush. “Today is just the start [...]
DepEd starts hauling math, science items from logistics firm
“Sometime in the first week of December 2023, the DepEd was in receipt of a letter from Transpac suddenly informing DepEd that it may now haul the goods stored in its warehouses,” the statement read. STAR / File Manila, Philippines — The Department of Education’s regional and division offices have started hauling the learning resources from its previous logistics provider, Transpac Cargo Logistics, “for distribution to public schools nationwide,” DepEd said in a statement issued yesterday. “Sometime in the first week of December 2023, the DepEd was in receipt of a letter from Transpac suddenly informing DepEd that it may now haul the goods stored in its warehouses,” the statement read. “Therefore, our regional and division offices have immediately started hauling the goods. The DepEd aims to completely haul [...]
DOTr to study rehabilitating traditional jeeps instead of buying new units
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Friday said it gave a commitment to its stakeholders to study rehabilitating traditional jeepneys instead of requiring them to buy new units as part of the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program. Speaking to CNN Philippines’ The Source, DOTr Undersecretary Timothy John Batan said this was one of the concerns raised by Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON) during the group’s dialogue with government officials on Thursday amid its two-day strike. “There were additional things that need to be further studied such as for example whether traditional jeepneys can be rehabilitated for purposes of complying with the standard step under the PUV modernization program and we of course gave our assurance that those additional concerns… [...]
ADB approves $2.1-B loan financing for Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge project
The Philippine government’s P175-billion Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge is now closer to fruition after the project has secured loan financing from Manila-based multilateral lender Asian Development Bank (ADB). As early as July, the project implementer Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said it is eyeing to secure funding from the ADB to bankroll the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge. In a statement on Tuesday, the ADB said it approved financing of up to $2.1 billion for the construction of the 32.15-kilometer bridge that would connect the provinces of Bataan and Cavite across Manila Bay. The lender said the bridge project will be bankrolled through a multi-tranche financing facility, the first tranche of which will amount to $650 million. The Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge project is one of the Marcos administration’s flagship infrastructure [...]
Badoy, Celiz walk free from House detention
Metro Manila , Philippines — SMNI hosts Lorraine Badoy and Jeffrey "Ka Eric" Celiz will be celebrating Christmas and New Year with their families after a House panel agreed to release them from detention. Citing humanitarian grounds, the House Legislative Franchises Committee unanimously voted during a closed-door hearing on Tuesday to release the two hosts from Batasang Pambansa They were freed Tuesday night after undergoing a medical exam. Parañaque Rep. Gus Tambunting, the committee chairman, clarified that the development has nothing to do with the writ of habeas corpus petitions filed by the spouses of the two hosts before the Supreme Court. "Sila po ay papalayain for humanitarian reasons dahil Kapaskuhan. May sulat naman tayo galing kay Ka Eric na sila ay humihingi ng paumanhin sa kanilang ginawa," Tambunting said. [...]
DepEd launches framework meant to equalize public, private schools
THE Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday launched a framework designed to decongest public schools and equalize the level of teaching between the public and private schools. Meanwhile, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said public schools can learn from private schools, adding that students’ good performance is attributable to the high level of support the teachers gave them. “One of the most important reasons why we did not regress during the pandemic is because of our teachers. That’s a very important factor,” he said The structure, dubbed Public-Private Education Complementarity Framework, was rolled out during the 2023 Private Education National Conference which sought to promote coherence in the development of a mixed education system in the country. Vice President and concurrent Education Secretary Sara Duterte said every [...]
NSC: New national WPS strategy months in the making given various agencies involved
Metro Manila, Philippines — The National Security Council (NSC) said on Tuesday it took months before it was able to finalize with other agencies involved the new strategy that the country will implement in protecting its sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). “It’s the entire government bureaucracy who’s involved… It took some time and given that we have regular ROREs (rotation and resupply), there’s always something that crops up so we make adjustments to the national strategy. Now that things have become very clear we are now preparing to make this presentation,” NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya told CNN Philippines’ The Source During a briefing on Monday, Malaya said the government made a new national game plan on the WPS to reflect “some [...]
OCTA survey: Filipinos ‘most satisfied’ with gov’t response to quality education, infrastructure
(Arnold Quizol / Manila Bulletin) Majority of Filipinos are satisfied with the national government’s performance in providing quality education and infrastructure, based on the OCTA Research survey conducted from Sept. 30 to Oct. 4. The results of the 3rd Quarter 2023 Tugon ng Masa survey, released on Monday, Dec. 11, showed that Filipinos are satisfied with the government’s provision of quality primary and secondary education (72 percent) and quality tertiary and technical or vocational education (71 percent). Most Filipinos also approved of the government’s construction of public infrastructure (71 percent) The government also received majority ratings for protecting the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (69 percent) and providing quality and affordable healthcare (69 percent), as well as responding to natural disasters (68 percent) and defending Philippine territory (64 percent). [...]
Transport groups to hold another strike
TRANSPORT groups led by the Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston) will hold another nationwide strike this week to protest the government's December 31 deadline for franchise consolidation. In a press briefing on Monday, Piston announced that the strike will be from December 14-15. It said transport organizations based in Central Luzon and Southern Tagalog will join the strike. The group said it would extend the strike if the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) does not change some of the provisions of Department of Transportation (DoTr) Order 2017-011 and lift the deadline for consolidation. The group said the mandatory franchise consolidation would lead to a phaseout of traditional jeepneys which will automatically take away the livelihood of drivers and operators. Drivers and operators [...]
Only Philippines has legitimate right over West Philippine Sea – Marcos
A video of the recent incident in Second Thomas Shoal is shown during a press conference about the recent Chinese aggression and harassment in Scarborough Shoal and Second Thomas Shoal in the disputed South China Sea, in Manila on December 11, 2023. The Philippines said it had summoned China's envoy on December 11 and flagged the possibility of expelling him following the most tense confrontations between the countries' vessels in years at flashpoint reefs in the disputed South China Sea. AFP / Earvin Perias DFA summons Chinese envoy MANILA, Philippines — Only Filipinos have the “legitimate right” to operate anywhere in the West Philippine Sea, President Marcos has asserted, stressing that the country would remain steadfast in the defense of its sovereignty amid China’s continued “dangerous actions against our [...]
‘Pinoys dissatisfied with gov’t efforts vs. inflation’
THERE was general dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of inflation and controlling prices of basic goods, a recent independent opinion survey showed. According to the non-commissioned study by the OCTA Research conducted on September 30 to October 4 this year, only 14 percent were satisfied with how the national government controlled inflation and reined in prices of consumer goods. Curiously however, 29 percent said they were contented with the government’s efforts to fight poverty, while 34 percent gave the thumbs up approval on hunger reduction. On non-economic issues, bigger number of the people indicated that the government was doing alright. Forty-three percent believed that the national government was on the right track in the fight against graft and corruption, 46 percent favored efforts to reduce [...]
‘He has done nothing’: Zubiri wants Chinese envoy sent home after multiple water cannon incidents
Metro Manila, Philippines – Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Sunday urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to send China’s ambassador home, saying he has "done nothing" amid incidents where Chinese ships repeatedly fired water cannons at Philippine vessels. "I urge President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. to send the current Chinese Ambassador home. He has done nothing to address the continued attacks of his government on our troops and on our people," Zubiri said in a statement. This comes after the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported on Sunday morning that a commissioned vessel on a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal sustained "serious engine damage" after it was blasted with water cannon by the China Coast Guard (CCG) On Saturday, Chinese ships repeatedly fired water cannons at Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic [...]
AFP brass at Ayungin Shoal: ‘West Philippine Sea, atin ‘to!’
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. last November told Chinese officials to uphold international law, and follow the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea regarding areas of the South China Sea.—RF, GMA Integrated News Top officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday reiterated ownership of the West Philippine Sea, on board the BRP Sierra Madre which was ran aground along the Ayungin Shoal. “West Philippine Sea, atin ‘to (this is ours)!” exclaimed AFP Chief of Staff, General Romeo Brawner Jr. and Western Command commander, Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, and the military detachment stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre (LT-57) as seen on videos on GMA’s “24 Oras Weekend” on Sunday This comes after the top officials personally witnessed China [...]
Price of regular-milled rice may hit P60/K—Bantay Bigas
Prices of regular-milled rice may reach up to P60 per kilogram amid rising prices in the international market, rice price watchdog Bantay Bigas said. Bantay Bigas spokesperson Cathy Estavillo said prices of regular-milled rice in some markets in Metro Manila now ranged from P52 to P54 per kilogram Even in rice-producing Aurora province, Estavillo said rice sells for P52 per kilogram. “That is the sad reality. And Christmas is just around the corner,” she said in a radio interview. “It is really scary. It might really hit P60 per kilo since the only solution of the government now is to import,” she added. Agriculture group Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura chairman Rosendo So said rice prices in other countries are also rising, which may affect local rice [...]
Sara thanks Pinoys for trust in DepEd
Vice President Sara Duterte thanked Filipinos for their continued support for the Department of Education (DepEd). She expressed her gratitude after an OCTA Research Tugon ng Masa nationwide survey showed the department as the most trusted and top-performing government agency in the third quarter of 2023. Vice President Sara Duterte poses with students and Education officials during the culmination of the observance of National Children’s Month on Nov. 27,2023. "Taos-puso po akong nagpapasalamat sa mamamayang Pilipino para sa patuloy na tiwala at suportang ibinibigay ninyo sa DepEd (I give my heartfelt thanks to the Filipino public for their continued trust in and support for the DepEd)," the VP said. She said the result of the poll was an honor for the department and credited the achievement to [...]
PH, China vessels collide off Ayungin
WATER CANNONED, TOWED. This handout photo taken and released on Dec. 10 by the Philippine Coast Guard shows the M/L Kalayaan being towed after a Chinese coast guard ship unleashed its water cannon onto the vessel (inset), during a mission to deliver provisions at Second Thomas Shoal in disputed waters of the South China Sea. AFP Water cannons fired at supply ships anew A Philippine boat and a Chinese Coast Guard ship collided near a hotly contested reef on Sunday, with both countries trading blame for the latest confrontation in the disputed South China Sea. Chinese ships also used water cannons on two supply boats and a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel during a resupply mission to a tiny garrison on Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the Spratly Islands, [...]
LPA, tropical cyclones may enter PAR in Dec
Manila, Philippines- A low pressure area (LPA) and six other weather systems are likely to affect the country, along with one or two tropical cyclones that may enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) within the month, the state-run weather agency said on Friday. This northeast monsoon, locally known as "amihan," is bringing overcast skies with light rains only in areas in Batanes and Babuyan Islands, according to weather specialist Robert Badrina of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) PHOTO FROM DOST PAGASA The easterlies, meanwhile, are affecting Metro Manila and the rest of the country where isolated rain showers or thunderstorms may prevail, especially in the afternoon or at night. "We could expect another generally-fair weather. In fact, based on reports from our various [...]
Go files bill for MedTech practice upgrade
In a bid to align the Philippine medical technology sector with global standards, Sen. Christopher "Bong" Go filed on Tuesday a bill aimed at enhancing the existing framework governing the practice of medical technology in the country. Senate Bill (SB) 2503, also known as the "Philippine Medical Technology Act of 2023," seeks to update several decades-old laws, specifically Republic Act 5527 and 6138 and Presidential Decrees 498 and 1534. Go, chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, said that the current laws, dating back over half a century, might need to be updated to reflect the advancements and requirements of modern medical technology. "The landscape in medical technology education and profession has significantly evolved," said Go, emphasizing the need for a legal framework that keeps pace with [...]
Pag-IBIG: ‘Long overdue’ contribution hike to be implemented in January 2024
The Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG Fund is all set to implement the deferred increase in members’ contribution starting January 2024. To recall, Pag-IBIG postponed the premium hike to next year in consideration of the “continuing effects of the pandemic to both the business community and our members. ”In a chance interview, Pag-IBIG CEO Marilene Acosta said, “Tuloy na (it’s a go).” “We are just waiting for PBBM’s (President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.)… not his approval because the Board approved it already. We just informed PBBM,” Acosta said, noting that Pag-IBIG Fund sent a memorandum to the President in the last week of November. The Pag-IBIG Fund chief said so far there has been no opposition from Malacañang concerning the planned members’ contribution hike. “I think it’s good to go. [...]
Civilian group heads to Palawan for ‘Christmas convoy’ to WPS
Metro Manila, Philippines — More than 40 volunteers departed Manila for Palawan Friday morning for their planned three-day Christmas convoy to the disputed West Philippine Sea. Civilian group Atin Ito said the first batch of volunteers includes youth and student leaders, and fisherfolk representatives. "Loaded with essential donations and supplies, the group set sail for El Nido, Palawan, aboard a 150-capacity civilian marine vessel," it said in a statement Based on the photos forwarded to the media on Friday, a sculpture of a saint was seen as one of the things being carried on the ship. In El Nido, the group will be joined by 100 fishers, with 40 boats participating in the civilian convoy. The convoy, which aims to deliver Christmas gifts and supplies to Filipino troops assigned [...]
Spirit of Christmas: DepEd leads nationwide tree-planting initiative
As a "Christmas gift" to all Filipino children and future generations, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Wednesday, Dec. 6, led the simultaneous conduct of a nationwide tree-planting activity. (Photo courtesy of DepEd) Dubbed “236,000 Trees – A Christmas Gift for the Children,” the project was participated in by public schools and field offices nationwide. DepEd Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Michael Wesley T. Poa, National Capital Region (NCR) Director Jocelyn Andaya, and Pasig Representative Roman Romulo led the main program conducted in Pasig Central Elementary School. (Photo courtesy of DepEd) Officials, teachers, and learners of DepEd likewise joined the program in their respective areas. DepEd said the said project was participated by approximately 47,678 public schools. As stated in DepEd Memorandum No. 69, series of 2023, Vice President [...]
PH Coast Guard eyes fleet base in Subic
Manila, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is working toward the establishment of a fleet base in Subic, Zambales. PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said they were currently identifying possible locations of port facilities that can accommodate bigger ships. "On the issue of a port facility for these bigger ships, we are working toward the establishment of our fleet base in Subic," Gavan said in an interview.. "And we are also looking at other areas" within Manila Bay, Gavan said. The PCG announced this as the country continues to face Chinese incursions into its territorial waters in the West Philippines Sea. Aside from a new Coast Guard fleet base, Gavan said they were also beefing up their personnel, with 4,000 recruited this year and another 4,000 expected next [...]
South Korea starts building ship for Philippine Navy
Keel laying for the Philippine Navy Corvette No. 1. dfa.gov.ph Manila, Philippines — South Korea is ready to partner with the Armed Forces of the Philippines for its modernization, and a shipyard in that country has started building the Philippine Navy’s first Corvette. Philippine Navy chief Toribio Adaci Jr. visited the HD Hyundai Heavy Industries shipyard in Ulsan City for the keel-laying ceremony of Navy Corvette No. 1 and the steel cutting for Navy Corvette No. 2, the Philippine embassy in Seoul reported yesterday. The ceremony formally marks the beginning of the shipbuilding process In Manila, South Korean Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa said his government is trying to take on a stronger role and responsibility in upholding and enhancing a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. [...]
ADB approves $450 million loan for Philippines healthcare program
This August 2007 file photo shows the facade of Asian Development Bank in Pasig City. (Eugene Alvin Villar/Wikimedia Commons) MANILA — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $450 million loan for the Philippines to fund its universal healthcare program, the multilateral lender said in a statement on Wednesday. The loan will help “the Philippines strengthen health policy reforms and further improve Filipinos’ access to medicines and health services”, the ADB said. — Reporting by Mikhail Flores
Imee Marcos agrees with VP Duterte’s stand on amnesty, peace talks
Metro Manila, Philippines — Senator Imee Marcos agreed with Vice President Sara Duterte urging the government to reconsider granting amnesty and reviving peace talks with communist groups. "Yes. That's the short answer," Marcos told reporters on Wednesday. "I'll give a statement when I'm ready," she added. Duterte, who's also vice chairperson of the government's anti-communist task force, made it clear on Monday that she does not agree with the new peace efforts with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Before her statement, there had been speculations about a rumored crack with her UniTeam alliance led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., after the House of Representatives stripped her of ₱650 million in confidential funds under the proposed 2024 national budget. But for the president's sister, the two top [...]
DOH confirms 4 cases of ‘walking pneumonia’
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed there are four cases of "walking pneumonia" in the country. "As of November 25, 2023, there are a total of four confirmed cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection among reported Influenza-like Illness (ILI) cases. These cases have been reported in the previous morbidity weeks 3, 30, 37, and 38, with one case each," the DOH said at a briefing. The World Health Organization (WHO) describes Mycoplasma pneumoniae as a common bacterial infection that typically affects younger children. It is treated by antibiotics, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The DOH added walking pneumonia is not a new pathogen and has been previously detected among other cases "This is not a notifiable disease globally. The DOH can scan but we [...]
PISA: Philippines 5 to 6 years behind
A father and his children wearing face masks walk on a pedestrian overpass to school during the opening of classes at a school in Quezon City, suburban Manila on August 22, 2022 as millions of children in the Philippines returned to school as the academic year started on August 22, with many taking their seats in classrooms for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic hit. AFP / Ted Aljibe Manila, Philippines — The dismal performance of the Philippines in the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) indicates that students in the country are five to six years behind in learning competencies, according to the Department of Education (DepEd) “If we follow the computation (of PISA) with caveats, based on the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation [...]
ISIS claims deadly blast at Catholic mass in southern Philippines
ISIS has claimed responsibility for a deadly explosion that ripped through a Catholic mass service at a university gym in the southern Philippines on Sunday. At least four people were killed and dozens of others were injured in the blast at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City, according to authorities. In a communique, ISIS said its fighters “detonated an explosive device on a large gathering of Christian disbelievers in Marawi City,” according to the SITE Intelligence Group, a counterterrorism threat intelligence organization that tracks the online activity of extremist groups. Photos of the scene showed soldiers and emergency workers standing among debris in the gym. A section of the seating area was blown up, chairs strewn across the floor. Lanao del Sur province Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr., told [...]
DOTr eyes MRT-3 fare hike in 2024
Metro Manila, Philippines— Commuters taking the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) may pay more by the end of the second quarter next year, nine years after the last fare hike, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Monday. The end-to-end fare of ₱28 from North Avenue to Taft Avenue stations may be adjusted to ₱34 and the minimum fare of ₱13 will increase to ₱16 if regulators approve the petition, Jorjette Aquino, DOTr MRT-3 officer-in-charge and assistant secretary for railways, said in a public briefing. Aquino said the train operator has yet to refile a notarized petition after the regulators disapproved the fare hike request, while approving the LRT Manila Light Rail Transit System fare adjustment in July. "Ang aming nire-request ay additional ₱2.29 boarding fare, at 21 centavos [...]
VP Sara tells Marcos peace talk with NDFP is ‘an agreement with the devil’
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Sara Duterte Manila, Philippines — In a rare move, Vice President Sara Duterte publicly disagreed with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., calling moves to make peace with National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) “an agreement with the devil.” She also criticized Marcos’ efforts to grant pardons to captured rebel groups through several proclamations. “Mr. President, the government’s statement with the NDFP in Oslo was an agreement with the devil,” said Duterte during the 5th Anniversary of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac). Duterte argued past experiences indicated NDFP has no sincerity when it comes to peace and that the rebels will only betray government and the public. “Mr. [...]
House OKs bill on legal aid to OFWs
The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a bill expanding the scope of legal aid extended to overseas Filipinos and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). A total of 246 lawmakers voted to approve House Bill (HB) 9035, a measure expanding the use of the Legal Assistance Fund (LAF) and the Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo Para sa mga OFWs na Nangangailangan (AKSYON) Fund to be managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), respectively. “Our overseas Filipinos are our modern-day heroes. Their immeasurable contributions to our country, their families, and communities merit the utmost protection from the government. This measure aims to do just that: protect them at all stages of the legal proceedings, from investigation to trial proper and [...]
DepEd most trusted govt agency – OCTA
The Department of Education is the most trusted and best-performing government agency, a survey conducted by OCTA Research showed. In its Third Quarter Tugon ng Masa survey held from September 30 to October 4, DepEd got a 79 percent trust rating, followed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) at 75 percent, the Department of Health (DoH) at 74 percent, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, 73 percent The DepEd got its highest trust rating in the Visayas and Mindanao — 88 percent — while its lowest is in Balanced Luzon at 70 percent. It also had the highest trust rating among socio-economic class D and E at 80 percent and 78 percent, respectively, while the lowest was [...]
Philippines’ budget deficit at $622 million in October
A worker counts dollars at a money changer (Reuters) MANILA — The Philippine government posted a 34.4 billion pesos ($621.95 million) budget deficit in October, the Bureau of the Treasury said on Wednesday. The deficit was narrower than the previous month’s 250.9 billion pesos gap and brought the year-to-date budget deficit to 1.018 trillion pesos Reporting by Mikhail Flores and Karen Lema; Editing by Martin Petty
Marcos signs ‘Caregiver Welfare Act’ into law
Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law Republic Act 11965 or the Caregiver Welfare Act to protect the rights and welfare of the sector, the Presidential Communications Office announced on Friday. According to the law signed by Marcos on Nov. 23, the working hours of caregivers in the Philippines will be based on their employment contract. It also mandates overtime pay for work beyond eight hours daily. Caregivers who have rendered at least one month of service are also entitled to 13th month pay. They will be entitled to benefits such as Social Security System contributions, PhilHealth, and Pag-Ibig. It also gives caregivers the option to terminate their employment contract any time before expiration if they suffer physical, verbal, emotional abuse or inhumane treatment at the [...]
UN chief to COP28: Break ‘deadly cycle’ of global warming
UNITED NATIONS: The head of the United Nations on Monday urged world leaders to take decisive action to tackle ever-worsening climate change when they gather at the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in the city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates starting this week. "We are trapped in a deadly cycle," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said. "The solutions are well known. Leaders must act to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius, protect people from climate chaos, and end the fossil fuel age." United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivers remarks during a Security Council open debate on the maintenance of international peace and security at the UN headquarters in New York City on Nov. 20, 2023. AFP PHOTO Guterres spoke ahead of the summit, where 70,000 people are [...]
BI warns vs jobs in Myanmar
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) reiterated its warning to Filipino workers against accepting high-paying job offers in Myanmar and other neighboring Asian countries. Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco issued the warning on Monday after four more Filipinos returned from Myanmar where they fell victim to illegal recruitment The victims, whose names were withheld for their protection, arrived in Manila from Yangon via a Thai Airways flight on November 21. "The best way to avoid these sad experiences is for you to go through the legal process that migrant workers should follow in applying for overseas jobs," Tansingco said. He said the experience of the repatriates should serve as a warning to other Filipinos that they should not be lured by promises of high-paying jobs from strangers and foreigners who will [...]
PH to import 21,000 MT of onions in December – DA
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippines is importing 21,000 metric tons of onions that are scheduled for delivery in December, the head of the Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Plant Industry said on Monday. DA-BPI Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban told reporters that the imports of the bulbs should boost supply, easing the pressure on prices in the run-up to the Christmas holidays. "Medyo tumataas na siya, siguro P10, P20. But dahil kino-complement natin dahil halos paubos na stocks natin o baka hindi pa nailalabas, we are complementing it with the importation na sapat for the month," Panganiban said. [Translation: It's getting a little higher, maybe P10, P20. But because our stocks are almost down or maybe they haven't been released yet, we are complementing it with the importation that [...]
Public schools to plant 236,000 trees nationwide
In a Nov. 17 memorandum, Duterte said that 47,678 public schools would be in asynchronous mode for the tree-planting activity, in which one school would plant at least five trees. Inday Sara Duterte / Facebook page Manila, Philippines — Public schools in the Philippines will plant 236,000 trees on Dec. 6 as part of the Department of Education (DepEd)’s Christmas project, according to Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte. In a Nov. 17 memorandum, Duterte said that 47,678 public schools would be in asynchronous mode for the tree-planting activity, in which one school would plant at least five trees. Duterte said the trees should be planted within school grounds but if space is scarce, schools may find alternatives in local parks, marine protected areas or any [...]
Gov’t gives go-ahead to Christmas convoy to WPS
Philippine Navy warships BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS15) and BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), along with the USS Gabriel Gifford (LCS 10) conduct tactical maneuvers in the West Philippine Sea. (Photo from the Armed Forces of the Philippines) Manila, Philippines — A civilian group that earlier failed to get the government’s approval to bring Christmas presents and provisions to soldiers in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) can now finally proceed with its plan. But it was not clear whether the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea has also allowed the Atin Ito coalition to stop over at BRP Sierra Madre, the grounded vessel that serves as a military outpost at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal. According to the group, the task force has “agreed” to its [...]
VP Sara respects but disagrees with Marcos on possible return to ICC
Metro Manila, Philippines— Vice President Sara Duterte said she respects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to consider proposals for the Philippines to rejoin the International Criminal Court (ICC). “We should respect the position of the president being the chief architect of foreign policy so ‘yun dapat ang position nating lahat [that should be the position of all of us],” Duterte, who also serves as Education chief, told reporters on Monday at the sidelines of a National Children’s Month event. Meanwhile, the vice president maintained her stance against cooperating with the ICC in its probe into alleged abuses that occurred throughout her father's anti-illegal drugs campaign. “Pero [but] we will continue to reach out to the Department of Justice regarding our position on this matter,” Duterte said. Last week, the [...]
‘Is House using the ICC to silence the Dutertes?’: Bato dela Rosa says people are asking
Sen. Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa (Senate PRIB Photo) Is the House of Representatives using the International Criminal Court (ICC) to silence Vice President Sara Duterte and her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte? Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa said this is what people are asking after the Lower House presented a resolution urging President Marcos to work with the ICC in the investigation into the alleged brutal war on drugs launched by the administration of former president Rodrigo Duterte. Dela Rosa, who was the chief implementer of the Duterte’s campaign against illegal drug said he believes some members in the House “are being encouraged to file” probably to “silence the Dutertes” noting that it took them one and a half years before they decided to do so. “The timing [...]
Duterte: DepEd To Prioritize Last Mile Schools
Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte said the DepEd has allotted a separate budget for last mile schools in the provinces, apart from the budget for construction of classrooms in regular schools. Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte delivers a speech during her visit to Dororian National High School, a last mile school in Gigmoto, Catanduanes, on Nov. 23, 2023. OVP photo The Department of Education will prioritize the hiring of additional teachers and the construction of more classrooms in last mile schools or LMS, Vice President and concurrent DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte said. LMS are schools located in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. Duterte said the DepEd has allotted a separate budget for LMS in the provinces, apart from the budget for construction of classrooms in [...]
Sara distributes gift packs in Pangasinan
BINALONAN, Pangasinan: Vice President Sara Duterte urged residents in this eastern Pangasinan town on Saturday, November 25, to rally behind the government to achieve peace and progress in the communities SMILE : Vice President Sara Duterte gamely takes a group selfie with residents of Binalonan, Pangasinan, where she distributed gift packs on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023. PHOTO BY GABRIEL CARDINOZA "I urge everyone to support the government, the newly elected barangay officials, our local government here in Binalonan and Pangasinan province," said Duterte, who was here for a gift-giving activity. Some 1,500 residents from the different villages here received gift packs. Speaking in Filipino, Duterte said that the unity of the people leads to a peaceful and orderly community. "And what we want is a peaceful life, where we [...]
Philippines, Australia kick off joint air, sea patrols
JOINT NAVAL EXERCISE. The third day of the joint naval exercise called Samasama ’23 between the Philippines and the United States involved training on multiple shipboard operations including communications check and maritime domain exercise prior to the conduct of a visit, board, search and seizure drill by a combined boarding force from Philippine Navy’s BRP Lolinato To-ong (PG902) and the U.S. Navy. The BRP Antonio Luna FF151 - PF and USS Dewey (DDG 105) performed Replenishment at Sea Approaches with supply ship. USNS Wally Schirra The Philippines and Australia started joint air and sea patrols as they seek to deepen their defense cooperation to counter China’s assertiveness in the region. The “maritime cooperative activity” came days after the United States held a similar exercise with the [...]
SWS: More Filipinos feel quality of life declining
A man pushes a trolley along a market in Manila on May 11, 2023. AFP / Jam Sta. Rosa Manila, Philippines — The number of Filipinos who reported a decline in their quality of life over the past year has increased in the latest survey by the Social Weather Stations. Results of the September 28 to October 1 survey showed that 30% of 1,200 adults said that their quality of life had worsened, compared to 22% in the previous poll conducted in June and July. Twenty-eight percent of respondents saw an improvement in their quality of life, while 41% said it remained the same, from 33% and 45%, respectively, in the previous survey. The latest survey resulted in a “net gainer” score of -2, classified by the [...]
Over 1 million affected by rain due to shear line, LPA — NDRRMC
This handout photo taken on November 21, 2023 and received from the Philippine Coast Guard on November 22 shows coast guard personnel evacuating a sick resident from a flooded home due to heavy rains at a village in Catarman town, Northern Samar, central Philippines. Handout / Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) / AFP Manila, Philippines — More than one million individuals were affected by the low pressure area and the shear line that triggered floods and landslides, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said Sunday. A total of 254,160 families from Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol region, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga were affected by the shear line—a weather system formed when cold and warm winds converge—and a dissipated LPA. Over 81,110 people were displaced, [...]
IBM to train Filipinos on AI
Technology giant International Business Machines (IBM) has committed to train two million individuals in artificial intelligence (AI), mostly from under-represented communities through collaborations with the government and other universities. In a recent interview with The Manila Times, IBM Philippines President and country general manager Aileen Judan-Jiao said they intend to help under-represented communities, especially with many jobs going to be replaced by AI. The training will be done through IBM's SkillsBuild platform, a free education program that aims to help adult learners, high school and university students, and faculty to develop new skills and access career opportunities. SkillsBuild is an online platform that can be accessed anywhere through any device and offers 1,000 courses in 20 languages on AI, cybersecurity, data analysis, cloud computing and many other technical disciplines. [...]
Gov’t urged: Use int’l ties for captive seafarers’ release
CAPTURED SHIP The Galaxy Leader, a cargo ship seized by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on Nov. 20, is shown two days later docked at a port on the Red Sea in the Yemeni province of Hodeida and flying Palestinian and Yemeni flags. The Bahamas-flagged, British-owned vessel operated by a Japanese firmbut with links to an Israeli businessman, was headed from Turkey to India when it was seized along with its 25-member crew, 17 of them Filipinos. The rebel group said the capture was in retaliation for Israel’s war against Hamas, sparked by the Oct. 7 attack of the Palestinian militants who killed 1,200 people and took around 240 hostages, according to Israeli officials. —AFP Lawmakers urged the government on Thursday to seek help from the international community and [...]
China accuses PH of ‘stirring up trouble’ with foreign forces in SCS
Metro Manila, Philippines — China's Ministry of National Defense (MOD) has accused the Philippines of enlisting foreign forces to patrol the South China Sea and stirring up trouble in the region. "Since November 21, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command Navy ship Yuncheng has conducted routine patrols in the South China Sea," the MOD said in a statement issued Thursday. "During this period, the Philippines enlisted foreign forces to patrol the South China Sea, stir up trouble, and hype up regional peace and stability, violating the spirit of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea." "The theater troops maintain a high degree of vigilance, resolutely defend national sovereignty, security and maritime rights and interests, and resolutely safeguard peace and stability in the South China [...]
Dengue, flu-like cases up
These are in Cagayan Valley, Bicol and Central Visayas, where upticks in cases were logged from Oct. 1 to Nov. 11. Pixabay Manila, Philippines — Three regions have reported an increase in dengue cases, the Department of Health (DOH) reported yesterday. These are in Cagayan Valley, Bicol and Central Visayas, where upticks in cases were logged from Oct. 1 to Nov. 11 The DOH said it recorded 179,444 dengue cases nationwide as of Nov. 11. It said dengue cases dropped by 10.96 percent or from 12,169 to 10,835 in the past two weeks. The DOH recorded 614 dengue deaths, a case fatality rate of 0.34 percent The department stressed the need to closely monitor the situation, saying cases may further increase due to late reports. Meanwhile, cases [...]
WHO wants data on outbreak of respiratory disease in China
BEIJING: The World Health Organization has asked China for more data on respiratory illnesses spreading in the north of the country, urging people to take steps to reduce the risk of infection. Northern China has reported an increase in "influenza-like illness" since mid-October when compared to the same period in the previous three years, the WHO said Children and their parents wait at an outpatient area at a children hospital in Beijing on November 23, 2023. The World Health Organization has asked on November 23, 2023, China for more data on a respiratory illness spreading in the north of the country, urging people to take steps to reduce the risk of infection. China has reported an increase in "influenza-like illness" since mid-October when compared to the same period in [...]
Senate ends plenary debates on P5.768-T 2024 national budget
The Senate on early Tuesday morning ended the plenary deliberations on the proposed P5.768 trillion national budget for 2024. The session ended at 4:50 a.m. Tuesday. Among the highlights of the Senate plenary deliberations are the dropping of the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education's proposed confidential funds for 2024 Other agencies that also dropped their request for controversial funds were the Department of Finance (DOF) and Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). Meanwhile, the confidential funds of the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice (DOJ) were decreased. The Senate deliberated on the 2024 spending plan for nine days. After the debates, the Senate finance committee, chaired by Senator Sonny Angara, will introduce amendments to the General Appropriations Bill (GAB). It [...]
Phivolcs allays fears of stronger quake due to sand fissures in Sarangani town
Manila, Philippines: THE Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Tuesday allayed fears of a possible stronger earthquake following the discovery of sand fissures or splitting in a town in Sarangani province where the November 17 magnitude 6.8 tremor occurred. "The people especially in the province (Sarangani) must not worry about this sand fissuring because it is a natural occurrence especially in an area where a strong earthquake took place," Phivolcs director Teresito "Toto" Bacolcol told The Manila Times via Viber. Bacolcol said that the sand fissures found in Barangay Padidu in the municipality of Glan, also in the same province, were produced by liquefaction. "Liquefaction usually happens in sandy areas near rivers and coastlines," he said. "This happens when during strong ground shaking, sand particles settle down [...]
Malaysian, 11 Pinoys caught ‘renting out’ 50,000 SIM cards
Arrested stock photo. Philstar.com / Jovannie Lambayan, file Manila, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation has arrested a Malaysian and 11 Filipinos for allegedly “renting out” SIM cards with verified GCash accounts, the NBI announced yesterday. In a series of operations in Quezon City, Manila and Parañaque from Nov. 9 to 10, the NBI’s Anti-Organized and Transnational Crime Division arrested Lau Wen Xiang and 11 Filipinos. Aside from the 50,000 SIM cards, the bureau also confiscated 13 desktop computers, 40 GSM modems or text blasters, 57 cell phones and a laptop. The operations started with information about people on Facebook looking for GCash account holders with a P500,000 limit who are willing to have their accounts rented. Account holders were offered P2,000 as payment and an [...]
Go renews call for disaster resilience department
In an interview after the groundbreaking of a Super Health Center in Caraga, Davao Oriental on Saturday, Go renewed his advocacy for the creation of a Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR). Voltaire F. Domingo / Senate Photo Manila, Philippines — In the wake of the magnitude 6.8 earthquake that struck parts of Southern Mindanao last Friday resulting in a significant loss of life and property, Sen. Bong Go has emphasized the need for a proactive approach to disaster management in the Philippines. In an interview after the groundbreaking of a Super Health Center in Caraga, Davao Oriental on Saturday, Go renewed his advocacy for the creation of a Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR). “I will not lose hope. Maybe, at the proper time, we will be [...]
Philippines population may reach 115 million by yearend
Families spend quality time at Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City on June 4, 2023. STAR / Jesse Bustos Manila, Philippines — The Philippines’ population may reach 115 million by the end of the year, the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) said yesterday. “The Philippines, based on the 2020 census, has recorded 109 million Filipinos, and it is estimated that it will reach around 115 million by the end of 2023,” CPD deputy executive director Lolito Tacardon said in an interview with “Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon” program over government-run PTV. The number is based on the country’s population growth rate of 1.6 percent annually, according to Tacardon. The Philippines is now 13th among the most populous countries in the world. “Meanwhile, in the Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines [...]
Sandiganbayan orders transfer of property from Marcos alleged crony to lumber workers
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan has issued a writ of execution on a previous ruling that declared the employees of Lianga Bay Logging Co., Inc. (LBLCI) as rightful owners of the majority of the company’s shareholdings. In a resolution signed on Nov. 7, the anti-graft court’s 5th division said its July 18, 2023 decision is final and executory without any appeal or pleading by the defendant. “Let therefore, a Writ of Execution issue to enforce the Resolution promulgated on July 18, 2023,” the court said. A writ of execution is a court order that begins the transfer of assets following a judgment. The Sandiganbayan in July 2023 ruled in favor of the Diatagon Labor Federation (DLF), a union based in Mindanao, in its claim to 60% of LBLCI. [...]
DepEd to dedicate Fridays to reading starting 2024
Grade 7 students of Araullo High School along United Nations Avenue in Manila line up during school opening dry run. The STAR / Edd Gumban Manila, Philippines — All schools will be required to hold whole-day reading programs every Friday starting January as part of the Department of Education’s newest initiative to boost students’ literacy, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte announced on Tuesday. The DepEd secretary said that the department’s curriculum and teaching strand is currently crafting a policy that will guide schools in implementing “catch-up Fridays” beginning January 12. “This means that on Fridays, our sole focus will be on teaching children to read,” said Duterte, who made the announcement during DepEd’s culminating activity for the National Reading Month Under the “catch-up Fridays” program, [...]
Imee: Comelec probing ‘meeting’ of 2022 presidential bet’s camp, Smartmatic head
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is investigating the allegation that the camp of a 2022 presidential candidate had met with the president of Smartmatic, the poll service provider during the last national and local elections. Senator Imee Marcos disclosed this during the Senate plenary deliberations on the Comelec's proposed 2024 budget upon the inquiry of Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III. "There have been allegations that a certain camp of a certain candidate met with the owner of Smartmatic during the election period of 2022. Has this report reached the Comelec and [has] the Comelec investigated this report?" Pimentel asked. He pointed out that meetings between interested political camps with poll service providers should be prohibited. Marcos, in response, said the reported meeting "was also studied by the [...]
Pinoy Fishers To Sail Back To Panatag Shoal
Tropical Fish Gatherer Association president Joeffrey Elad expressed hope that talks between President Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping will benefit fishermen currently experiencing bullying from Chinese ships A 300-meter-long floating barrier is installed by China to prevent Filipino fishermen from entering Panatag or Scarborough Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. Inset shows a Philippine fishing boat being shadowed by the Chinese Coast Guard near resource-rich fishing ground on Sept. 22, 2023. Photos by Michael Varcas, The Philippine STAR Filipino fisherfolk will sail again to Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal to determine if the supposed meeting between President Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping in San Francisco, California over the weekend will result in an improved situation in the area amid the harassment of Chinese coast guard and militia, according to [...]
Marcos: VP Duterte does not deserve impeachment
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. rejected any talk of Vice President Sara Duterte's ouster, saying he does not want her out and she doesn’t deserve to be impeached. “Binabantayan namin nang mabuti [We are monitoring that closely] because we don’t want her to be impeached. We don’t want her to—she does not deserve to be impeached. So, we will make sure that this is something that we will pay very close attention to,” President Marcos said at a briefing with the media in Hawaii on Monday (PH time). Marcos added impeachment calls against government officials were not new. “So, I guess, a continuing evolution of that thinking na basta ayaw namin diyan, tanggalin natin, i-impeach natin. Well, meron naman sigurong dahilan kung hindi lang [...]
Bongbong Marcos: PH needs US, allies amid rising tension in West PH Sea
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. speaks at the Daniel Inouye Asia Pacific for Security Studies in Hawaii, on November 19, 2023. Screenshot of RTVM streaming Honolulu, Hawaii — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday (US time) said the Philippines needs the United States and other allies amid “heightening tension” in the West Philippine Sea, as he reiterated his vow not to give up an inch of the country’s territory. Speaking at the Daniel Inouye Asia Pacific for Security Studies here, the President cited the “critical role” of the US-Philippine alliance. “The United States is our, I would say, our oldest and most traditional partner and that has been in various forms, ongoing over a hundred years. And I think it [...]
Bong Go pushes for enhanced 2024 DOH budget, with focus on grassroots health services and health worker support
During the plenary debates for the 2024 budget of the Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday, November 15, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and vice chair of the Senate Finance Committee, emphasized the significance of the agency's budget for the nation's post-pandemic recovery. "I want to underscore the importance of the 2024 budget of the DOH in our path towards recovery," stressed Go, underscoring that now is a critical time to invest in the healthcare system to meet emerging challenges. Go inquired about the specifics of DOH's budget request, to understand the additional funding sought and the prioritization of various health programs. Senator Pia Cayetano, senior vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, responded that the Senate increased the DOH budget by [...]
Rice retail price up P6/kilo from last month
Farm workers check on their crops, spray organic pesticides, and remove unwanted weeds at a rice field in Tanay, Rizal on September 19, 2023. Ernie Penaredondo / The Philippine STAR Manila, Philippines — Retail prices of rice have increased by at least P6 per kilo compared to the prevailing price a month ago as cost of the grains continued its uptrend, according to data from the Department of Agriculture (DA). Based on latest price monitoring of the DA in Metro Manila markets, local regular milled rice is sold to as high as P51 per kilo compared to P45 on Oct. 16, or P6 per kilo difference; local well-milled rice at P54 per kilo from a previous price of P48; local premium rice at P62 per kilo compared [...]
PH, US sign nuclear cooperation deal for more secure energy source
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippines and the United States on Friday signed a historic civil nuclear cooperation deal, which is seen to help with the country's energy security by laying the legal basis for the transfer of nuclear equipment and material from the US to Manila. The two countries signed the “123 Agreement,” or the Philippines-United States Agreement for Cooperation Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy, during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in San Francisco after less than a year of negotiations. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the inking of the deal is another milestone “towards a more energy secure and green Philippines,” as he sees nuclear energy becoming part of the country’s energy mix by 2032 “We would be more than happy to pursue this path with the [...]
President Marcos to meet with China’s Xi
This handout photograph released by Philippine's Office of the Press Secretary and taken on January 4, 2023, shows Philippine's President Ferdinand Marcos Jr (2L) shaking hands with China's President Xi Jinping (2R) during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of People in Beijing. Philippines's Office of the Press Secretary / AFP Leaders aim to bring down sea tension SAN FRANCISCO — President Marcos said he wants to “bring down the temperature” in the West Philippine Sea, as he meets here today with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid rising cases of Chinese aggression in Philippine waters that risk escalating into full-scale hostilities. In a video statement, Marcos cited the need to discuss ways to prevent the escalation of tensions in the West Philippine Sea.He said the matter would be [...]
Pimentel flags insufficient NFA rice buffer stock
Metro Manila, Philippines — Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel on Wednesday questioned the National Food Authority (NFA) over the country's insufficient rice buffer stock. "I heard wala tayong buffer stock, isn't that the function of the NFA?" Pimentel said during Wednesday's deliberations on the Department of Agriculture's proposed budget for next year. The NFA did not specify the current buffer stock, but admitted it was not compliant with the 9-day amount mandated by law. Aside from maintaining sufficient rice buffer stocks sourced solely from local farmers, the agency must also be capable of managing the country's buffer stock within the next ten years. https://nfa.gov.ph/transparency/mandate-functions-name-of-official In response, NFA's Roderick Bioco argued that prices of palay are "too high" during planting season. He further explained that they already increased their [...]
DBM releases P70 billion bonus, cash gifts for state workers
Google Street View image shows the exterior of the Department of Budget and Management central office in Manila. Google Map Manila, Philippines — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has started releasing nearly P70 billion in bonuses and cash gifts for government workers. Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said qualified state personnel started receiving their yearend and cash gift bonuses yesterday in time for the Christmas season. Data showed that P45.3 billion have been earmarked for the yearend bonuses of qualified civilian personnel and another P15.2 billion for the military and uniformed personnel (MUP) in various government agencies Another P8.9 billion was appropriated for cash gifts under this year’s budget for the over 1.7 million civilian workers and MUP. This year’s bonuses and cash gifts are higher by six [...]
Marcos arrives in San Francisco for APEC Summit
President Ferdinand Marcos arrived at the San Francisco International Airport in California at 5:06 p.m. (9:06 a.m. Manila) with First Lady Atty. Louise Araneta-Marcos and the Philippine delegation for the 30th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting and related activities. Upon his arrival at San Francisco International Airport, President Marcos received a warm welcome from city government officials. This visit marks his third trip to the United States since taking office on June 30, 2022 Before the APEC Summit began, President Marcos met with the Filipino community at the San Francisco Conference Center. During the event, he presented the government’s initiatives and programs aimed at improving the lives and ensuring the welfare of Filipinos, including those working abroad. In his statement ahead of the APEC [...]
PCG: Biggest China fleet spotted near Ayungin Shoal
FILE PHOTO: Philippine Coast Guard’s air patrol spots Chinese vessels in the waters around Ayungin Shoal, following the February 6, 2023, laser “attack” on a PCG vessel in the area. Philippine Daily Inquirer/Niño Jesus Orbeta Manila, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Saturday said it has monitored a fleet of 38 Chinese vessels – the biggest so far – within the vicinity of Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal. PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela disclosed that they spotted China’s fleet during the latest resupply mission for the BRP Sierra Madre on Friday, November 10, when the China Coast Guard (CCG) also drenched a military-commissioned boat using the water cannon. “As to the number of Chinese vessels who are present within the vicinity [...]
Bong Go bats for continuous support for Filipino healthcare workers
Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go (Voltaire F. Domingo/Senate PRIB) Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, has emphasized the critical need for ample government support for Filipino healthcare workers. He reminded the Department of Budget and Management, Department of Health, and other concerned agencies to ensure that allowances and benefits due to qualified HCWs are released in accordance with the law. During the Senate plenary session on Wednesday, November 8, Go questioned the delayed disbursement of the health emergency allowance and underscored its significance in providing immediate financial relief to healthcare frontliners “We passed Republic Act 11712 which grants continuing benefits and allowances to public and private healthcare workers during public health emergencies, like COVID-19. Last July, the state of public [...]
DILG chief, several lawmakers join Marcos’ Partido Federal ng Pilipinas
Metro Manila, Philippines — Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos and nine members of the House of Representatives have been sworn in as new members of the political party that brought Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the presidency. Among those joining Abalos at the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) are 4th District Representative Richard Gomez, his wife Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Marie Torres-Gomez, and Senator Raffy Tulfo's son Congressman Ralph Tulfo. Marcos, the national chairman of the PFP, attended their oath-taking on Friday The other lawmakers who joined the president's party are: - Maria Jamina Katherin (Laguna, 4th District) - Francisco Benitez (Negros Occidental, 3rd District) - Marlyn Primicias-Agabas (Pangasinan, 6th District) -Florida Robes (San Jose Del Monte City) - Leody Tarriela (Occidental Mindoro) - Linabelle Ruth Villarica (4th District, Bulacan) [...]
Revised Maharlika IRR expands powers of board, President and lowers qualifications for top officers
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines— Malacañang on Saturday released the revised implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) Act, which expands the powers of its board of directors and the President, and lowers the qualifications for the Maharlika Investment Corporation’s (MIC) top officials. The IRR, which is published on the website of the Official Gazette, showed changes to several sections in Rule VI which covers the governance of the MIF. Changes in Section 30 of the IRR now allows the President to either reject or accept recommendations made by the advisory body for nominees to fill the positions of president and chief executive officer (PCEO), regular, and independent directors of the MIC "In the interest [...]
More intelligence funds sought after latest Ayungin water cannon incident
This photo taken on Nov. 10, 2023 shows China coast guard personnel sailing aluminum hulled boats at Second Thomas Shoal in the disputed South China Sea. AFP / Jam Sta Rosa Manila, Philippines — Lawmakers are urging Congress to promptly approve increased funding for agencies responsible for safeguarding the West Philippine Sea, especially in the wake of China's recent provocative actions China Coast Guard vessel 5203 reportedly blasted a boat carrying provisions to Filipino soldiers stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal last Friday, endangering lives in the process. "This incident should push Congress to finally approve a higher budget for the intelligence funds for agencies that defend our territories. When our frontliners in the West Philippine Sea become stronger, so will our national security," said Sen. [...]
China wants to mass-produce robots by 2025
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) issued an advisory for the mass production of humanoid robots by 2025. The country aims to secure the safe and effective supply of essential components for mass-producing androids. More importantly, it aims to lead a reliable industrial robot supply chain by 2027. Technology seems to be progressing faster than ever after the pandemic. Its end gave rise to the AI revolution sparked by OpenAI’s ChatGPT. However, the United States’ neighbor from the other side of the world wants to lead innovation in hardware instead of software. China’s ambitions to lead robotics globally may significantly transform our world soon. This article will discuss China’s robotics ambitions for the coming years. Later, I will cover the country’s other robot breakthroughs. On November 3, [...]
Gaza becoming a ‘graveyard for children,’ UN chief warns as calls for ceasefire intensify
Gaza is “becoming a graveyard for children,” the United Nations chief warned on Monday as the death toll rises and calls grow around the world for a ceasefire, one month into Israel’s assault on Hamas - the militant group that runs the enclave. “The nightmare in Gaza is more than a humanitarian crisis. It is a crisis of humanity,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres told reporters in New York, adding that the need for a ceasefire is becoming “more urgent with every passing hour. “The parties to the conflict – and, indeed, the international community – face an immediate and fundamental responsibility: to stop this inhuman collective suffering and dramatically expand humanitarian aid to Gaza,” he said. His comments come four weeks after Israel declared war on Hamas, following the [...]
Go files bill on freelance work
SEN. Christopher "Bong" Go on Wednesday reiterated his commitment to support freelance workers as the Philippines secured its place as one of the top global remote work hubs. Thus, Go filed Senate Bill (SB) 2107, or the "Freelance Workers Protection Act," that seeks to establish safeguards and incentives for freelance workers, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging their rights and guaranteeing fair compensation for their services Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go. Senate PRIB "In a world marked by unprecedented changes brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic and other global crises, the way we work and where we work have evolved significantly. The rise of remote work is fast becoming a hub for freelance workers," said Go, a member of the Senate Committee on Labor. "Remote work has opened up opportunities for [...]
Jobless Pinoys hit 2.26M in September
Metro Manila, Philippines— The number of Filipinos with no work went up in September due to lack of available jobs and elevated inflation, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed Wednesday. In a briefing, National Statistician Dennis Mapa reported that those without jobs reached 2.26 million, up from August’s 2.21 million. This translates to a national unemployment rate of 4.5% The labor force participation during the period also dropped to 49.93 million from August’s 50.29 million, which the official contributed to schooling and the limited availability of jobs in the market. Mapa said this was reflected in unemployment data. “They are looking for work pero there’s no available. Bad weather contributed, but not that large. They’re waiting for rehire or job recall,” he said. Asked if the higher [...]
PH farm output down anew in Q3
FARM output contracted further in the third quarter (Q3) as livestock and poultry gains failed to offset a decline in crops and fisheries, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported on Wednesday. The value of agricultural and fisheries production fell by 0.3 percent in July to September, reversing from the 1.6-percent growth posted in the same period last year but narrowing from the 1.2-percent drop posted three months earlier At constant 2018 prices, production for the period amounted to P412.41 billion from the year-earlier P413.6 billion. Year to date, farm output remained positive with growth at 0.2 percent. This was down slightly, however, from the January-September 2022 uptick of 0.3 percent. Fisheries production, which accounted for 14.2 percent of total third-quarter output, posted a 6.1-percent drop to P58.72 billion. Thirteen of [...]
PH, US Marines in ‘Kamandag’ drills
Some 2,600 Philippine and US Marines will join this year’s edition of the “Kaagapay ng mga Mandirigma ng Dagat” (Kamandag) exercises that aim to enhance the interoperability of both forces. Philippine Marine Corps deputy commandant and “Kamandag” exercise director Brig. Gen. Jimmy Larida said about 1,732 Filipino Marines and some 902 US troops would participate in the exercises from Nov. 9 to 17 Also taking part in the exercises are 57 personnel of the South Korea Marine Corps and 50 personnel of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. South Korean and Japanese troops only joined as observers in the 2022 iteration of “Kamandag.” Eight personnel from the United Kingdom will observe the annual exercise for the first time. As this developed, a recent Pulse Asia survey commissioned by international [...]
Onion retail prices up by P30/kilo
Based on the DA’s latest monitoring, the retail prices of local red onions ranged between P80 and P220 per kilo; imported red onions, between P125 and P140 per kilo; local white onions, between P100 and P160 per kilo; and imported white onions between P80 and P200 per kilo. STAR / File MANILA, Philippines — The retail price of onions has increased by P30 per kilo, setting the price to as high as P220 per kilo in Metro Manila markets compared to the prevailing prices a week ago, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA). Based on the DA’s latest monitoring, the retail prices of local red onions ranged between P80 and P220 per kilo; imported red onions, between P125 and P140 per kilo; local white onions, between [...]
Gonzales, 2 other ex-PDP-Laban solons join Lakas-CMD
Metro Manila, Philippines — Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales forged an alliance with Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) along with two other lawmakers from Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban). Gonzales was joined by fellow Pampanga Rep. Carmelo Lazatin and Siquijor Rep. Zaldy Villa in uniting with the 77-member Lakas-CMD, whose president is House Speaker Martin Romualdez. “We are very honored to welcome Senior Deputy Speaker Dong, Cong. Jon and Cong. Zaldy to our party,” Romualdez said in a statement on Wednesday The senior deputy speaker on Monday resigned from PDP-Laban over the remarks made by the political party’s chairperson, former president Rodrigo Duterte, against the lower chamber. In a TV interview in October, Duterte accused the lower chamber of corruption, even calling it the “most rotten institution” in [...]
Masinloc fishermen ‘hungry and angry’ with China sail a giant buoy effigy
Masinloc, Zambales – A group of fishermen here released on Monday morning a giant buoy effigy at the island of San Salvador to convey their anger and hunger to China as a result of their continued harassment and aggression at Scarborough Shoal. In a statement after the release of the buoy, the Association of Masinloc Fishermen shared the event that transpired – the release of the giant buoy with the inscription “Atin Ang Pinas” (The Philippines is Ours) as a sign of the fishermen’s claim of their source of livelihood According to Richard Pascual, village councilor and incoming barangay captain of the island of San Salvador, the island is dependent on the bounty of the ocean. Food, employment, brought about by their simple life in the [...]
House leader resigns from PDP-Laban, then calls out Duterte for ‘rotten institution’ tirade
House Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio "Dong" Gonzales Jr., (left) former president Rodrigo Duterte (PPAB, Malacañang photo) Senior Deputy Speaker Pampanga 3rd district Rep. Aurelio "Dong" Gonzales Jr. has named his party-mate, former president Rodrigo Duterte, as the one who has assailed the integrity of the House of Representatives. But just before doing so, Gonzales resigned from his party, the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban). He was the erstwhile party treasurer. This took place on the plenary floor Monday, Nov. 6 during a meeting of the Committee of the Whole, which involved all 227 House members present at that time. In a cordial exchange with independent minority solon Albay 1st district Rep. Edcel Lagman, Gonzales admitted to "feeling bad" when a certain personality called the House as [...]
Prices of agricultural products seen to go up during holidays
Despite assurances from the government that prices of commodities will remain stable, agriculture stakeholders forecast spikes in the cost of basic agricultural products like chicken and rice. Grains Retailers’ Confederation (GRECON) national spokesperson Orly Manuntag said there is an impending P2 to P3 increase per kilo of local rice, owing to the increase in the buying price of palay. “We expect this by mid-November. It might be an increase of P2 to P3 pesos kilo of rice in the market. Usually during the holiday season, our prices are stable and steady, however, we noticed that the increase in the buying price of palay is driving rice prices,” Manuntag said. According to him, the buying price of palay by the National Food Authority (NFA) has increase form [...]
New agri chief: ₱20/kg rice price not possible today
Metro Manila, Philippines— The newly appointed agriculture chief is still not seeing the realization of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s campaign promise of ₱20 per kilogram of rice price within the near future as modernizing the sector will take “a little time. Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Monday said that reducing the commodity’s price is an aspiration but he noted that the global market is facing a 15-year high in rice prices. He also said there are more “complicated” world problems that would make it difficult to achieve the target, such as climate change, El Niño, and if there would be other wars in other parts of the globe. “Today, that is not possible,” Laurel said of Marcos’ rice price goal. “We are getting ready [...]
Senate eyes ratifying proposed PH-Japan military access deal in 2024
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Senate on Monday said it hopes to approve the proposed Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan next year. “We are looking at a timeline of a year, less than a year siguro (maybe). Maybe by the first half of next year they can take this to the Senate and we can already ratify,” Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri told CNN Philippines’ The Source During Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's visit to the Philippines last week, he and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. disclosed that Manila and Tokyo have started negotiating for the establishment of an RAA. This will be similar to the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) that will allow troops of one country to freely visit another temporarily. Some groups have protested [...]
66 provinces, 9 cities prone to tsunamis – Phivolcs
Metro Manila, Philippines — More than half of the country's provinces and nine cities in the National Capital Region are prone to tsunamis, according to state seismologists. "We have 66 out of 82 provinces in the country that face various tsunami risks," Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology Director Teresito Bacolcol told CNN Philippines' The Final Word on Friday. Bacolcol said these are low-lying provinces along the eastern seaboard facing the Philippine Sea. He added that coastal provinces bordering the West Philippine Sea are also vulnerable to local tsunamis from earthquakes coming from the Manila, Negros, and Sulu trenches. Aside from the 66 provinces, Bacolcol said nine cities in Metro Manila are also included. These are - Caloocan - Las Piñas - Manila - Makati - Malabon - Navotas [...]
No Destabilization Plot, Just ‘Passionate’ Officers – NSA
Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. also denied saying that there is a plot to destabilize the government, saying his statement was “taken out of context.” File photo taken by The Philippine STAR’s Michael Varcas shows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leading the change of command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines from Gen. Andres Centino to Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on July 21, 2023. There is no plot to destabilize the government, although there are “passionate” debates among retired military officers on the policies of the Marcos administration, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said on Saturday, Nov. 4. Reports quoted Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. as saying earlier that he had heard [...]
PH, Japan ink ₱570-M deal for maritime defense, disaster response
Metro Manila, Philippines — Japan is giving the Philippines ₱235 million for its maritime security, and another ₱334 million for disaster response in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao or BARMM. The deals were signed after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met Friday with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who's on an official two-day visit in Manila. The Presidential Communications Office said the military aid—signed through Japan's Official Security Assistance or OSA—is intended to boost the efforts of the Department of National Defense "by securing coastal radars for the Armed Forces of the Philippines to enhance their maritime domain awareness and security." Meanwhile, the agreement to mitigate the impact of flooding aggravated by climate change in the Bangsamoro region was signed under Non-Project Grant Aid or NPGA "Today, key [...]
House realigns P64.5-B budget to DA
The House of Representatives has realigned the biggest amount of budget increase to the Department of Agriculture (DA) with P64.5 billion under its approved version of the proposed P5.768 trillion budget for 2024. Based on the list of amendments released by the office of Speaker Martin Romualdez of Leyte, the P64.5 billion increase to the DA budget is broken down to: frican swine fever vaccines (P1.5 billion) Rice subsidy for agri business and marketing services (P20 billion) Solar-driven pump irrigation (P15 billion) National irrigation system/communal irrigation system (NIS/CIS)(P25 billion) Massive planting/replanting program purchase of coconut seednuts and fertilization (P2 billion) Construction of fishery and post harvest facilities in Palawan and Kalayaan Group of Islands (P1 billion) The Health Department ranked second in terms of increases with P43.9 billion for [...]
‘No need for PH allies to join resupply trips’
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said there is no need for its allies, including the United States, to escort Philippine vessels delivering provisions to Filipino soldiers stationed on Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal amid the growing number of maritime confrontations between China and Manila. "Our RoRe (rotation and resupply) mission is for us to undertake," said AFP spokesman Col. Medel Aguilar in a briefing on Thursday This aerial photograph taken from a military aircraft shows the dilapidated Sierra Madre ship of the Philippine Navy anchored near Ayungin shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) with Philippine soldiers on-board to secure the perimeter in the Spratly group of islands in the South China Sea, west of Palawan, on May 11, 2015. AFP PHOTO / POOL / RITCHIE B. TONGO RoRe [...]
New Zealand Navy ship here on 3-day visit
The Philippines has an unusual visitor from New Zealand—the naval vessel HMNZS Aotearoa – which dropped anchors for three days in Manila staring October 30 as part of its effort to “strengthen longstanding maritime and diplomatic ties between the two maritime countries.” Aotearoa is part of New Zealand’s Defence Force (NZDF)’s largest naval deployment to the Indo-Pacific. “This three-day ship visit is a testament to the enduring friendship and cooperation shared between New Zealand and the Philippines and signifies New Zealand’s commitment to promoting peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region,” the New Zealand Embassy in the Philippines said in a statement Aotearoa’s port call built on the maritime alliance between the two countries, which was bolstered in November 2021 when foreign ministry officials of both sides met to [...]
Oil price rollback seen; Meralco rates may go up
File photo of gasoline refill. The STAR / File Manila, Philippines — Pump prices could see a rollback next week, potentially ending three straight weeks of price hikes for gasoline. “Based on the four-day trading, we will be expecting another round of rollback on prices of petroleum products,” Department of Energy (DOE) Oil Industry Management Bureau assistant director Rodela Romero said. Romero said the estimated amount of adjustments could be a possible decrease of P0.40 to P0.60 per liter for gasoline, P1 to P1.30 per liter for diesel and P0.80 to P1.05 per liter for kerosene An oil industry source, on the other hand, estimated potential price reductions ranging from P1.20 to P1.30 per liter for diesel and a possible decline of between P0.60 and P0.70 per [...]
US vows continued presence in West Philippine Sea
The US Navy assault ship USS America (LHA 6) docks at Pier 15 in Manila on August 27, 2023. STAR / Edd Gumban Manila, Philippines — The United States Navy will maintain its presence in the Indo-Pacific Region amid China’s “destabilizing” actions in the South China Sea (SCS) and the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This was according to Capt. Claudine Caluori, Mission Commander of the US Navy’s Pacific Partnership 2023, when asked by reporters at a virtual briefing if the US would be doing more to help the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Navy deal with Chinese harassment in the West Philippine Sea. “While I cannot comment directly on US response, again I will say that the US will continue to fly, sail and operate safely [...]
PH, Japan begin talks for VFA-like agreement
Metro Manila, Philippines – The Philippines and Japan have opened negotiations for the establishment of a Reciprocal Access Agreement between troops of the two nations, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida disclosed on Friday. The RAA is similar to a Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which allows troops from one country to freely visit another temporarily Japan currently shares RAAs with Australia and the United Kingdom, while the Philippines has a VFA with the United States and a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement with Australia. “I also would like to recall our commitment to work on a framework for our Status of Visiting Forces or proposed Reciprocal Access Agreement with Japan," Marcos said during the presentation of agreements between the two countries. "We are cognizant of the benefits [...]
Electricity rates surge on ‘early Christmas’ demand
MANILA -The early Christmas season frenzy in the Philippines triggered higher average prices in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market in the first two weeks of October, the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (Iemop) said over the weekend. According to Iemop, the average spot market prices in the Luzon grid soared P7.58 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from only P4.87 per kWh in September as the approaching Christmas season pulled up consumer demand—an increase of 55 percent. Data from Iemop show that the average demand in Luzon in the first half of October went up to 9,638 megawatts (MW) from 9,377 MW the previous month.
Japanese PM Kishida, wife to visit PH for stronger ties
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (REUTERS) MANILA, Philippines — Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and wife Yuko are set to visit the Philippines later this week to forge stronger ties with Manila. The couple will be arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Friday at 3 p.m. for a two-day visit. Kishida is set to have a meeting with President Marcos on Friday and a visit to the House of Representatives on Saturday. Presidential Communications Secretary Cheloy Velicaria Garafil said Mr. Marcos and Kishida would hold a bilateral meeting to discuss security issues in the face of growing tensions between Manila and Beijing in the South China Sea, among other areas of mutual concerns such as political, people-to-people ties, economic and development cooperation.Garafil said the two leaders [...]
Duterte: Collaborations to boost semicon industry
Vice President Sara Z. Duterte Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Z. Duterte said that the growth of the country’s semiconductor industry could be enhanced via collaboration between industry stakeholders and educational institutions. In a social media post on Tuesday, Duterte suggested that educational institutions could enhance their curriculum by collaborating with industry experts and stakeholders to ensure that they are always a step ahead of the evolving needs of the industry “By incorporating emerging technologies, industry-specific skills, and practical training opportunities, education can equip students with the relevant knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field by the time they [...]
LPG price to go up by P5.50 per 11-kilo tank
Workers arrange LPG tanks that are sold along Kamias Road in Quezon City, July 7, 2023. The Department of Energy (DOE) is now strictly implementing all LPG sellers to secure a License to Operate (LTO) before they can continue selling LPG products. The LTO is mandated under Republic Act No. 11592 or the LPG Industry Regulation Act of 2021. The LTO is a requirement for all LPG sellers, regardless of their size or the volume of LPG they sell. It is intended to ensure the safety of LPG consumers by ensuring that LPG sellers are properly licensed and that they are following the necessary safety standards..MANNY PALMERO Oil companies will increase the price of cooking gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) by P0.45 to P0.50 per kilo [...]
Filipinos flock to cemeteries for All Saints’ Day
Metro Manila, Philippines — Despite the drizzle, thousands of Filipinos start arriving in cemeteries Wednesday morning to remember their dead on All Saints’ Day. In the Manila North and Manila South cemeteries alone, there were already visitors at around 4 a.m., an hour before gates opened at 5 a.m. There were also those who camped out at the Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina City. Thousands of passengers even caught last-minute trips a few hours before Nov. 1. Cemetery authorities have said they are ready for the influx of large crowds this Undas. The number is expected to reach 80,000 at the Manila North Cemetery and 300,000 at the Manila South Cemetery. Those heading to these cemeteries were reminded visiting hours will only be until 5 p.m. but they can [...]
1-week BSKE transition sought
Comelec chairperson George Garcia The Commission on Elections (Comelec) wants a one-week transition period for the proclaimed winners of the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) before they assume office. Comelec chairman George Garcia said Monday night this was the commission’s position in the wake of the recent Supreme Court decision that found the postponement of the BSKE to October 30, 2023 unconstitutional “The Supreme Court said the start of term of office of those who will win the 2023 BKSE should start January 1, 2023, but that date has long passed,” Garcia said. “That means if they win and get proclaimed tonight, they should assume office tomorrow (Tuesday),” he added. Election boards started canvassing votes at around 8 p.m. last night and the Comelec expected [...]
TikTok, Snapchat and others sign pledge to tackle AI-generated child sex abuse images
Britain announces the joint statement - which also lists the United States, German and Australian governments among its 27 signatories - in the run up to a global summit hosted by the UK on AI safety this week LONDON, United Kingdom – Tech firms including TikTok, Snapchat and Stability AI have signed a joint statement pledging to work together to counter child sex abuse images generated by artificial intelligence. Britain announced the joint statement – which also listed the United States, German and Australian governments among its 27 signatories – at an event on Monday being held in the run up to a global summit hosted by the UK on AI safety this week. “We resolve to sustain the dialogue and technical innovation around tackling child sexual abuse in the age [...]
PH, Netherlands to boost trade, investment ties
STRONGER PH-NETHERLANDS PACT. Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Foreign Affairs Minister of The Netherlands Hanke Bruin Slot sign a memorandum of understanding during Slot’s official visit to the Philippines. The two officials discussed bilateral relations and exchanged views on other regional matters of mutual concern. Avito Dalan The Philippines and the Netherlands have forged an agreement to boost trade and investment relations to complement an already strong partnership on defense. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Dutch Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot on Monday pushed to designate a focal point to carry out both countries’ understanding of economic and technical cooperation Slot came to Manila for a bilateral talk with her Filipino counterpart, the first to be taken by a Dutch foreign minister in [...]
Farmers’ group laments lack of action vs onion hoarders
A market vendor shows the size comparison of the onion bought from local farmers and a giant onion that came from an undisclosed origin at the Marikina City Public Market on January 23, 2023. STAR / Jesse Bustos Manila, Philippines — Farmers’ group Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura yesterday lamented the Office of the Ombudsman’s order to file charges against Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary Kristine Evangelista, but excluding hoarders who profited from excessive onion prices last year “It is very unfortunate that Assistant Secretary Evangelista was first to be charged while… those already identified by the marathon hearings of Congress that hoarded and profited from excessive onion prices last year up to early this year remain untouched,” SINAG executive director Jayson Cainglet said. “The government officials [...]
Potato price rises, but to normalize with harvest – DA
Stock image of potatoes. Image by Couleur from Pixabay Manila, Philippines — The price of potatoes has risen, but is expected to normalize because of the harvest, which is seen to augment the supply of the root crop, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said yesterday. Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa linked the higher prices of potatoes and other crops to recent typhoons that entered and hit the Philippines. “This (increase in the price of potatoes) may be attributed to the typhoons that hit the country during the months of July and August,” De Mesa said in a statement released by the Presidential Communications Office He added that the DA is looking into the situation, but is expecting the price to normalize because of the incoming supply. [...]
DFA chief defends PH abstention from UN resolution calling for Israel-Hamas ‘humanitarian truce’
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines— Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo explained why the Philippines abstained from voting in a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution calling for "immediate, durable, and sustained humanitarian truce leading to a cessation of hostilities” between Israel and militant group Hamas In a media briefing on Monday, Manalo said the proposed resolution did not include the terrorist attacks last Oct. 7. "There was one issue that was not reflected and that was the mention of the terrorist attacks on October 7 where in our case, four Filipinos were confirmed to have been killed during the attacks," he said. Manalo explained the Philippine government felt that it was important for the resolution to include the terrorist acts since Filipinos were killed and two more [...]
Further expansion of PhilHealth coverage pushed
Manila, Philippines — A lawmaker urged the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to implement a 20 percent increase in its benefits coverage. In a statement on Sunday, AGRI party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee cited inflation as one of the reasons why PhilHealth must apply the said increase. Lee made the call during the 1st National Credit Surety Fund Cooperative Congress held in Cebu City last Tuesday, where he also thanked PhilHealth for listening to their appeal to increase the coverage of several benefit packages for its members, which include high-risk pneumonia and ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.“Pero imbes na mga piling sakit lang ang dagdagan ng suporta ng PhilHealth, dapat magkaroon ng pagtaas sa lahat ng sinasagot nitong bayarin sa pagpapa-ospital ng mga miyembro,” he said. (But instead of increasing [...]
SLEX, MCX hike toll fees starting Nov. 3
South Luzon Expressway (Photo courtesy of SMC SLEX Inc.) MANILA – The toll fees at the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and the Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway (MCX) will increase starting Nov. 3, the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) said. In an advisory, the TRB said the toll increases in both expressways would be implemented in two tranches, this year and next year, "to protect the general welfare, curb existing inflationary situation and to mitigate the impact of the toll rate adjustments". For SLEX, this is the first periodic toll rate adjustment for SLEX since 2011, following the petitions for an increase last 2012 and 2014. Motorists traveling from Alabang to Calamba will pay an additional PHP10 for Class 1, PHP20 for Class 2 and PHP30 for Class 3. Those traveling from Calamba [...]
DENR to set up research station on Pag-asa Island
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is studying plans to set up a marine research station on Pag-asa Island in the remote town of Kalayaan in Palawan. Following her visit to the island, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said the department and its partner groups discussed plans "to expand research and monitoring" on Pag-asa Island and nearby areas Loyzaga and a research team visited the research station of University of the Philippines-Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI) on the island to check the crushed corals littered on the beach. "This further facilitated our discussion on the partnership between the DENR Biodiversity Management Bureau and UP-MSI in establishing a DENR marine research station on Pag-asa Island," Loyzaga said in a statement. During her stay, Loyzaga met [...]
Ex-president Duterte leads bets for Senate
DESPITE his pronouncement that he has retired from politics, former president Rodrigo Duterte is the top choice as candidate for the Senate in a survey by the Publishers Association of the Philippines Inc. (PAPI). The poll was conducted in select villages nationwide from October 2 to 8. Next to Duterte is former senator and boxing icon Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao, followed by Sagip Party-list Rep. Rodante Marcoleta. Incumbent senators Maria Imelda Josefa "Imee" Marcos and Christopher "Bong" Go were in fourth and fifth spots, followed by former Senate leader Vicente "Tito" Sotto 3rd, ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo. Sitting Senators Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr., Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa and Manuel "Lito" Lapid occupied the 8th to 10th slots, respectively In 11th to 20th place are Sen. Pilar Juliana "Pia" Cayetano, [...]
Time to vote: All systems go for BSKE
An employee of the Quezon City Comelec office carries a ballot box for distribution to the 4th, 5th and 6th districts of the city yesterday ahead of the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections. A total 550 jeepneys were hired by the Quezon City government alongside the 170 city-owned vehicles to provide transport during the distribution and retrieval of ballot boxes and election paraphernalia as well as shuttle teachers, poll clerks and relevant personnel. /Jesse Bustos 50,000 cops to ensure peaceful, orderly polls MANILA, Philippines — All roads lead to polling precincts today with the scheduled barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) pushing through nationwide. Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said the poll body is 100 percent ready for the conduct of elections, including in barangays declared as [...]
Can new law help tackle Philippines’ teen pregnancy emergency?
MANILA - A new bill that could be a game changer in the battle against teen pregnancies in the Philippines is inching through Congress with activists hoping it could galvanise a wider campaign to tackle this "national social emergency". The Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill, which was passed by the House in September and has now moved to the Senate, aims to expand access to sexual and reproductive health services, like contraception, in this mainly Catholic country where early pregnancies, even among girls as young as 10, are rife and where the age of consent was only raised from 12 to 16 last year. The Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development, one of the groups campaigning for the bill, said it was only two steps away from a vote [...]
PH, US to ‘redouble’ bilateral coordination following China collision incident
The Philippines and the United States on Friday agreed to "redouble" bilateral coordination following the recent collisions incident involving Philippine and Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea. In a joint statement, Philippine Defense chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and his United States counterpart Lloyd J. Austin III said they discussed in a phone call China’s “dangerous and unlawful maneuvers” that led to the October 22 collisions. “The Secretaries reaffirmed that the Mutual Defense Treaty extends to both countries’ public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces—to include the Coast Guard—anywhere in the Pacific to include the South China Sea,” the readout of their discussion said “Both Secretaries committed to redouble efforts to strengthen bilateral coordination, interoperability, and support for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” they added. Teodoro [...]
Palace: Oct. 31, Nov. 3 won’t be declared holidays
Metro Manila, Philippines – The Palace on Thursday said that Oct. 31 and Nov. 3 would not be declared as holidays before the Undas long weekend. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said that the plan of declaring Nov. 3 as a holiday is “fake news.” Non-working holidays All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day fall on Wednesday, Nov. 1, and Thursday, Nov. 2, respectively. The Palace declared Monday, Oct. 30 as a non-working holiday to make way for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections.
Japan eyes more big-ticket PH investments
Japan has pledged it will continue its investments in the Philippines' big-ticket projects as its ambassador in Manila noted the growing interests of Japanese investors in the country. Speaking at the Philippine Business Conference and Expo at the Manila Hotel, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko said there is room for the Philippines and Japan's partnership "to grow even further" considering that both countries have "very strong, solid economic ties." In fact, he said, the presence of different chambers at the event on Thursday proved that there is "a big vote of confidence on the Philippine economy, and the region In his speech, the envoy noted the two "potent tools for success" of the Philippines-Japan economic relations. They are: accelerating investments and creating innovation. On accelerating investments, Kazuhiko [...]
DBM allots P101 B for nat’l health insurance
Over P100 billion will be spent on the government’s national health insurance Program next year, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said Friday, Oct. 27. Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said a total of P101.51 billion budget will be allocated to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) in 2024,an increase of P1.28 billion from the previous budget. This amount will accommodate the expansion of beneficiaries and double the annual premium rate for persons with disabilities from P2,400 to P5,000 “Given the lessons from the pandemic, the Fiscal Year 2024 proposed budget will continue to strengthen primary healthcare facilities in the country, including medical assistance amounting to P22.26 billion to 1.31 million indigent and financially incapacitated patients who are unable to afford nor access quality healthcare services,” Pangandaman said. [...]
US Pentagon says Chinese jet came within 3 metres of bomber
Crew members signal to a F/A-18E Super Hornet fighter jet preparing to take off for a routine flight on board the US USS Nimitz aircraft carrier during a routine deployment to the South China Sea, Mid-Sea, on Jan 27, 2023. (Photo: REUTERS/Joseph Campbell) The US military on Thursday (Oct 26) said a Chinese jet came dangerously close to a US bomber earlier this week over the South China Sea, part of what Washington has said is increasingly risky behaviour by Chinese military aircraft. The US military said that on Tuesday a Chinese J-11 jet came within 3m of the B-52 aircraft "During the night time intercept, the PRC (People's Republic of China) pilot flew in an unsafe and unprofessional manner, demonstrated poor airmanship by closing with uncontrolled [...]
Taiwan reports 15 Chinese air force planes in its air defence zone
Airplane is seen in front of Chinese and Taiwanese flags in this illustration, August 6, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo Acquire Licensing Rights TAIPEI - Taiwan's defence ministry said that it had detected 15 Chinese air force planes entering Taiwan's air defence zone on Thursday morning, including fighter jets and drones, accompanying Chinese warships carrying out "combat readiness patrols" and drills. Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, has repeatedly complained over the past four years of Chinese military activity around the island. Reporting by Ben Blanchard Editing by Shri Navaratnam
PH ranks near bottom among East Asia, Pacific countries with weakest rule of law
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippines is still among the East Asia and Pacific countries with the weakest rule of law, ranking 13 out of 15 in the region, the World Justice Project (WJP) reported. According to the Rule of Law Index 2023, the Philippines fell three positions from 2022, placing 100 out of 142 countries worldwide. The independent and multidisciplinary organization added that the country had an overall score of 0.46, a 0.1 decrease from last year's ranking In 2021, the Philippines scored 0.46 and 0.47 in 2020, a notable change from its 0.53 score in 2015. New Zealand (8th globally) topped the region at 0.83 while Cambodia (141 globally) had the lowest score of 0.31. Data also showed that Denmark had the strongest rule of law across [...]
PH to file case vs. China over alleged coral harvesting in WPS
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippine government will file an environmental case against China over the alleged massive coral harvesting in the West Philippine Sea early next year, according to Justice Secretary Boying Remulla. Remulla on Thursday met with former Supreme Court justice and former Solicitor General Francis Jardeleza, international environmental law expert Antonio Oposa, and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela to discuss the potential case against China "We were encouraged to pursue what we think is a good case," Remulla said. "Kasi ang apektado naman nito hindi lang yung bansa natin, ang apektado dito is yung buong mundo. Yung sinisira nila na pinapanganakan ng isda, hindi na babalik. Eh kung diyan manggagaling ang gamot sana." [Translation: We were [...]
US, Australia oppose ‘destab actions’ in SCS
THE United States and Australia opposed "destabilizing actions" in the South China Sea (SCS), including the disruption of routine Philippines maritime operations around Second Thomas (Ayungin) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). US President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday (Thursday in Manila) mentioned the Philippines in a joint statement which touched on various topics, including their concern on peace and stability in the region. U.S. President Joe Biden and Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese toast before the start of the state dinner to the White House on October 25, 2023 in Washington, DC. President Biden and the first lady are hosting Prime Minister Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon for a state dinner. Tasos Katopodis/Gettyimages/AFP Biden and Albanese inaugurated a [...]
AFP ensures peaceful, orderly Oct. 30 polls
READY FOR POLLS. AFP deputy chief of staff Lt. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan, delivers AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.'s message during the simultaneous multi-agency send-off and turnover ceremony of government forces for BSKE duty on Monday (Oct. 23, 2023) in Camp Crame, Quezon City. Brawner also urged task force members to leave behind political affiliations and personal interests as they aim to create an environment where every Filipino can exercise their right to vote without fear and restriction.(Photo courtesy of the AFP) MANILA – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Monday said the military is determined to ensure that peace and order would prevail in the Oct. 30 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) “The AFP stands together with our [...]
59 Filipinos in Lebanon request for repatriation
Metro Manila, Philippines— Almost 60 Filipinos in Lebanon said they want to return home amid the escalating tensions between Israel and Islamist group Hezbollah, the Philippine embassy said on Monday. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Saturday placed the Middle Eastern country under Alert Level 3 due to the ongoing conflict there. This started after Palestinian militants fired shots from Lebanon, after Hamas launched a large-scale attack against Israel on Oct. 7. “On Sunday morning when we held our meeting with the FiIipino community leaders, we already received 59 applications,” Philippine ambassador to Lebanon Raymond Balatbat told CNN Philippines’ The Source. Of that number, the ambassador said three were from southern Lebanon where most of the exchange of fire between the Israeli forces and Lebanon-based militants has taken [...]
BI warns of fake eTravel websites that charge fees
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Monday urged the public to report fraudulent websites claiming to operate as electronic travel or eTravel sites “There are complaints received through socmed (social media) channels. (The public must) immediately report to CICC (Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center),” BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval told said in a Viber message, following reports of fake eTravel sites requiring charges from travelers. “The eTravel service is free of charge. Any website using the eTravel name and logo is fake and is a scam,” the BI said in an advisory. Sandoval warned that those behind the illicit scheme may face charges for violation of the Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, in relation to computer-related fraud. The public may send their complaints online via [...]
Israel promises ‘unrelenting attacks’ on Hamas; US, Obama urge caution
The Palestinian health ministry says the Gaza death toll in two weeks of air strikes had topped 5,000 Israel’s military said it was preparing for “unrelenting attacks” to dismantle Hamas while former US President Barack Obama warned that “any Israeli military strategy that ignores the human costs could ultimately backfire.” The Palestinian health ministry said the Gaza death toll in two weeks of air strikes had topped 5,000. Israel pounded hundreds of targets in Gaza from the air on Monday, October 23, as its soldiers fought Hamas militants during raids into the besieged Palestinian strip where civilians are trapped in harrowing conditions. Hamas on Monday said it had freed two Israeli women among the more than 200 hostages taken during its Oct. 7 rampage in southern Israel in which the Islamist group [...]
Philippines files protest vs China; envoy no-show at DFA
Chinese coast guard ships (L and R) corral a Philippine civilian boat chartered by the Philippine navy to deliver supplies to Philippine navy ship BRP Sierra Madre in the disputed South China Sea, on August 22, 2023. The Philippines accused a Chinese coastguard vessel of colliding on October 22, 2023 with a Philippine resupply boat as it travelled to a tiny garrison in the disputed South China Sea. AFP / Ted Aljibe MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has lodged a diplomatic protest against China over last Sunday’s “dangerous blocking maneuvers” by its ships that led to one of them “slightly” colliding with a Philippine vessel carrying supplies and provisions for troops stationed on BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoa Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza [...]
DFA disassociates itself from Locsin’s tweet
THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday "disassociated" itself from the view of Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom Teodoro Locsin Jr. with regard to the Israel-Hamas war. Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom Teodoro Locsin Jr. File Photo Locsin recently wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "That's why Palestinian children should be killed; they might grow up to become as gullible as innocent Palestinians letting Hamas launch rockets at Israel; not that they could stop them but that's no excuse." The DFA said that the post "was made in his strictly personal capacity." Locsin, a former DFA secretary, has deleted the controversial post. "I immediately deleted my sarcastic response to a tweet as I realized it could be misconstrued and retweeted to incite," he said. "My [...]
Marcos calls command conference on West Philippine Sea
President Marcos convenes a special command conference of national security and defense clusters at Malacañang yesterday, ordering the Philippine Coast Guard to conduct an investigation into China’s recent harassment of Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea. Top inset shows Navy chief Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci giving updates during a press briefing on the collision involving Chinese and Philippine vessels. MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos convened yesterday his security and defense officials for a command conference at Malacañang where they discussed the disruption by the Chinese of a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre, wherein one of its ships slightly hit a Philippine Coast Guard vessel during a “dangerous and provocative” maneuver At the command conference, Marcos was reported to have expressed very serious concern about the incident [...]
SRA mulls SRP, warehouse inspection amid refined sugar overprice
A retailer arranges packs of sugars in Pandacan, Manila on January 18, 2023. Ernie Penaredondo MANILA, Philippines — The government is considering imposing a suggested retail price (SRP) and warehouse inspections as retail prices of refined sugar remained overpriced despite the downward trend in the farmgate price of raw sweeteners, Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) administrator Pablo Azcona said yesterday In a radio interview, Azcona said the SRA is considering the imposition of an SRP as white sugar is sold as high as P110 per kilo compared to the P55 per kilo of farmgate raw sugar. “Our last target for the farmgate price of brown sugar is at P60 (per kilo) and for our consumer, it should be P85 (per kilo) for refined sugar. At present, the farmgate price [...]
DFA: Alert Level 3 raised in Lebanon
Metro Manila, Philippines —The Philippines has placed Lebanon under Alert Level 3 as border tensions increased between Israel and Islamist group Hezbollah, the Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said Saturday. This means that Filipinos are urged to leave Lebanon. De Vega earlier said the Philippine Embassy in Beirut will advise Filipinos there about the voluntary repatriation progra "We are doing this because the situation is rather tense and we already have seen it years ago in 2006 when we had to repatriate Filipinos from Lebanon," he told CNN Philippines’ The Final Word on Friday. There has been an ongoing exchange of fire between the Israeli forces and Lebanon-based militants, which led to the death of some Israeli soldiers and Hezbollah fighters. The conflict between the two [...]
Kuwait deployment ban to end – Marcos
President Marcos chats with Kuwait Crown Prince Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (left), who requested a short bilateral meeting at the sidelines of the Asean-GCC Summit in Saudi Arabia to discuss labor relations between the two countries. At right, the President meets with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, prime minister of Saudi Arabia, continuing the long-standing 54-year relationship between the two nations. Below, President Marcos, Speaker Martin Romualdez and members of the Cabinet join OFWs after addressing the Filipino community at the InterContinental Hotel in Riyadh late Friday night. MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos said the ban on the deployment of Filipino workers to Kuwait would end “At that very quick, very short meeting, we agreed to continue to discuss some of the obstacles in our [...]
Oil prices seen to go up next week
Metro Manila, Philippines— Oil firms are expected to hike prices of petroleum products next week. In its forecast issued Saturday, Unioil said diesel will cost ₱1.30 to ₱1.50 more per liter, while the price of gasoline will go up by ₱0.90 to ₱1.10 per liter. Fuel companies usually announce the price movements every Monday for implementation the next day. Data from the Department of Energy showed that price adjustments already resulted in a year-to-date per-liter increase of ₱12.80 for gasoline, ₱10.40 for diesel, and ₱4.99 for kerosene.
Marcos abolishes NorthRail
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. abolished the North Luzon Railways Corporation (NorthRail) as the government-owned firm is "no longer achieving the objectives and purpose for which it was designed and created." The President, through Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, issued on Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023 Memorandum Order 17, containing the abolition of NorthRail. In his order, the President said the Governance Commission for Government-owned and -controlled Corporations (GCG) determined that Northrail was "not producing desired outcomes," "no longer achieving the objectives and purpose for which it was designed and created," and "is not cost efficient and does not generate the level of social, physical and economic returns vis-a-vis the resource inputs. Northrail, registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission in 1995, was created as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bases [...]
Enforce genuine land reform, groups urge President Marcos
Farmers and members of militant groups stage a rally along Chino Roces Bridge in Manila yesterday to press for genuine land reform. Yesterday was the 51st anniversary of the signing of Presidential Decree 27 by Ferdinand Marcos Sr., which was replaced by Corazon Aquino’s comprehensive agrarian reform program law. / Edd gumban MANILA, Philippines — Around 500 farmers and members of militant groups staged a rally yesterday to call on the Marcos administration to enforce genuine land reform. Members of Anakpawis, Migrante, Gabriela, Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP), Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU), Tanggol Magsasaka, Pamalakaya and Courage marched to Mendiola from the Mabuhay Rotonda at the boundary of Quezon City and Manila yesterday morning, according to the Manila Police District The protesters carried banners and placards urging the [...]
PAGASA announces onset of ‘amihan’ season
Metro Manila, Philippines – The state weather bureau on Friday announced the onset of the northeast monsoon season, known as “amihan,” which will bring wind and cold temperature surges in October to March. A week earlier, the bureau announced the end of ‘habagat,’ or the southwest monsoon season which brought warm, moist winds to the western portion of the country from May to September. “In recent days, strong northeasterly winds have prevailed over Northern Luzon due to the strengthening of the high-pressure system over Siberia,” the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said. “Moreover, gradual cooling of the surface air temperature over the northeastern part of Luzon and increasing mean sea level pressure have been observed," it said. "These meteorological patterns indicate the onset of the northeast monsoon [...]
2023 Barangay, SK polls: Step-by-step guide to voting, do’s and don’ts
INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO MANILA, Philippines—In over a week, millions of Filipinos will again exercise their right to vote and choose leaders that will lead their communities in the long-delayed Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Elections. On October 30, over 93 million registered voters will cast votes for the barangay and SK polls, a crucial event that will determine the future of local communities across the country. The village and youth elections, as mandated by law, are supposed to take place every three years, but delays and postponements have resulted in officials holding office for up to five years. The last barangay and SK elections took place in May 2018. The next election was supposedly set for May 2020 but was moved to December 2022 after then-President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic [...]
Marcos says Maharlika not on hold, will be operational before yearend
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday said the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) will be operational before the year ends despite his recent order to suspend its implementation. “The concept of the Maharlika Fund as a sovereign fund or an investment fund — the concept remains a good one and we are still committed to having it operational before the end of the year,” the President said in a speech before departing for a summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia “I was a bit alarmed by the news reports early this morning that I read in the newspapers that we have put the Maharlika Fund on hold. Quite the contrary,” the President said. “The organization of the Maharlika Fund proceeds at a pace. And what I have done though is that [...]
Entrepreneurship pushed as high school subject
VICE President Sara Duterte and Go Negosyo founder Jose Ma. "Joey" Concepcion 3rd are exploring ways of incorporating entrepreneurship as a subject in senior high school. In a meeting last October 17, Concepcion discussed with Duterte, who is also the Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), ways in which entrepreneurship skills may be taught to students. One avenue is to have veteran and established entrepreneurs join Go Negosyo roadshows and teach the students at their schools Vice President Sara Duterte and Go Negosyo founder Jose Ma. ‘Joey’ Concepcion 3rd CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Another is for students to observe actual mentoring with active and aspiring entrepreneurs. A third option is teaching students entrepreneurship through the help of private companies, specifically those in the agriculture sector. "Our idea is [...]
Gavan is the Philippine Coast Guard’s new commandant
Metro Manila, Philippines — Admiral Ronnie Gil Latorilla Gavan was sworn in on Thursday as the new commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard. Gavan, who served as the PCG's Deputy Commandant for Administration, was also promoted from vice admiral to admiral when he took his oath before Transporation Secretary Jaime Bautista. He formally replaced Admiral Artemio Abu, who retired after 35 years of service, during the change of command ceremony at the PCG headquarters in Manila. Bautista lauded Abu for steering the country away from "any deterioration in the volatile situation at the West Philippine Sea" and expressed trust that Gavan would do the same. Bautista highlighted Gavan's introduction of the "Angels of the Sea," a group of female radio operators, to diffuse tension during sea conflict. In his speech, [...]
Marcos: Deals with Saudi Arabia worth $120M to benefit thousands of Filipinos
Metro Manila, Philippines— Thousands of Filipinos are expected to benefit from agreements with Saudi Arabia worth $120 million, according to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. "The agreements that will be signed today are set to benefit more than 15,000 Filipinos in training and employment opportunities across a wide range of professions in the construction industry," Marcos said in a roundtable meeting with the Saudi Ministry of Investment on Thursday". I hope that this meeting has served as an excellent platform for building greater and closer partnerships between the Philippines and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," the president added. Marcos said Saudi Arabia is "home" to about a million overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), as well as the largest community of Filipino professionals in industries like engineering, architecture, and healthcare. "I also [...]
Marcos off to Saudi Arabia for 1st ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit
INFO (1st UPDATE) President Marcos will attend the one-day ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit in Riyadh on Friday, October 20 MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. left Manila on Thursday, October 19, to attend the inaugural summit between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Saudi Arabia. This will be a short visit for the Chief Executive, who will fly back to Manila after the one-day event concludes on Friday night, October 20. “This Summit will serve as an important platform for the Philippines to highlight the need for cooperation in energy and food security, logistics, supply chains, digital [transformation], the free flow of goods, people, and services, as well as the enhancement and protection of the rights, of course, [...]
3 weather systems bring rain, thunderstorms in Luzon
THREE weather systems - the northeasterly surface wind flow, shear line and localized thunderstorms - are affecting most parts of Luzon, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said Thursday. Weather specialist Patrick del Mundo said that the shear line, where the cold and hot air converge, will bring overcast skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms in Quezon, Rizal, Laguna and Camarines Norte PHOTO From DOST PAGASA Meanwhile, the northeasterly surface wind flow or the wind coming from the north-east that brings mild temperatures, is affecting Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Apayao, Kalinga and Aurora where cloudy skies with rains will prevail, Pagasa said in its 5 a.m. advisory. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers [...]
Campaign for Barangay, SK polls starts today
Fewer residents queue to register for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections in December 2022 at the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) office in Quezon City on July 8, 2022. The STAR / Miguel De Guzman MANILA, Philippines — The campaign period for the Barangay and Sangguiniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) officially begins on Thursday, October 19. According to the Commission on Elections, a total of 672,016 positions are to be decided for this year's election. A total of 294,007 slots are for members of Sangguiniang Barangay, while 42,001 are for barangay captains. The same number applies to Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) aspirants. There are a total of 1,414,487 aspirants in the BSKE. For barangay captain, 96,962 slots will be filled; 731,682 for members of Sangguiniang Barangay; 92,774 aspirants for SK [...]
Musk’s X begins charging new users in Philippines, New Zealand
New users who sign up on the web version of X will now be required to pay an annual fee of P42.51 if they want to post content or interact with other users. STAR / File MANILA, Philippines — The social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, announced on Oct. 17 that it has begun charging new users in the Philippines and New Zealand to use basic features under its “Not a Bot” subscription method New users who sign up on the web version of X will now be required to pay an annual fee of P42.51 if they want to post content or interact with other users. The Elon Musk-owned platform said its “Not a Bot” subscription method should “bolster” existing efforts to reduce spam and “manipulation [...]
PH builds more ships to boost WPS patrol
THE Philippines will build more patrol vessels to further enhance the country's presence in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Tuesday, amid China's continued aggression in the disputed waters. In a chance interview on the sidelines of the 122nd anniversary of the Philippine Coast Guard, the President said the PCG was expecting around 40 more vessels to be made in Cebu. PCG’s 122nd President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. salutes during the 122nd anniversary of the Philippine Coast Guard in Port Area, Manila, on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023. Photo by Rene Dilan "So we are continuing with the upgrading of the equipment, the training, and the capabilities of all our people, especially the Coast Guard, not only because they are on the frontline in [...]
VP Duterte calls for stop to ‘politicking’ after issues on confidential funds
Metro Manila, CNN Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte told her critics Wednesday that this is not the right time for “politicking” as Filipinos struggle with rising commodity prices, coupled with the potential impact of the ongoing wars in the Middle East and Europe on the local economy. After a panel from the House of Representatives dropped the confidential funds for several agencies, including the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) which she also leads, Duterte issued a statement thanking her supporters for backing her leadership. Duterte said she understands the “disappointment and anger” her supporters felt amid recent developments involving her proposed 2024 budget for both the OVP and DepEd. The official requested for ₱500 million for the OVP and ₱150 million for [...]
16 OFWs return home from Israel
This picture taken on Oct. 11, 2023 shows an aerial view of buildings destroyed by Israeli air strikes in the Jabalia camp for Palestinian refugees in Gaza City. Israel declared war on Hamas on October 8 following a shock land, air and sea assault by the Gaza-based Islamists. The death toll from the shock cross-border assault by Hamas militants rose to 1,200, making it the deadliest attack in the country's 75-year history, while Gaza officials reported more than 900 people killed as Israel pounded the territory with air strikes. AFP / Yahya Hassouna MANILA, Philippines — The first batch of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Israel has returned safely to the Philippines. According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), 16 OFWs and a baby were repatriated on Wednesday, [...]
Manila Bay reclamation projects seen to make P24 trillion in investments
The Manila Bay reclamation projects which President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. ordered suspended are expected to generate over P24 trillion in investments, the Philippine Reclamation Authority has said. In a presentation before the House Committee on Ways and Means on Monday, PRA Assistant General Manager Joseph John Literal said the direct investments on the vertical development side is expected to reach P23 trillion. Vertical development is expected to generate another P1.95 trillion for horizontal development. “P24 trillion, Sayang ito. Payagan na lang natin, basta tapusin nila in five years. We can align this to socialized housing,” Salceda said. (It would be such a waste to do nothing on that P24 trillion. We should allow this to proceed, as long as they finish the project within five years.) “A suspension [...]
Putin visits China, will meet Xi in show of no-limits partnership
Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023. REUTERS/Wu Hong/Pool/File Photo BEIJING - Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing on Tuesday to meet with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on a widely watched trip aimed at showcasing the deep mutual trust and "no-limits" partnership between China and its giant neighbor. Putin and his entourage flew into the Beijing Capital International Airport on Tuesday morning, according to Reuters video footage, in the Kremlin chief's first official trip outside of the former Soviet Union this year. Putin has traveled little abroad since the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March, accusing him of illegally deporting children from Ukraine. Putin visited Kyrgyzstan, a former Soviet republic, [...]
Opening of Egypt border for Pinoys in Gaza ‘could be any day now’ —DFA
The opening of the border in Egypt for the exit of Filipinos from Gaza amid Israel-Hamas war “could be any day now,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Tuesday, citing an Israeli official Interviewed on Unang Balita, DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said Israeli and Egyptian authorities are still coordinating on the matter. “Nakikipag-ugnayan pa rin ang Israelis at Egyptians paano itong prosesong ito kasi ayaw din nilang lumabas iyong Hamas, lumabas ng Gaza at pumasok ng Egypt,” De Vega said. (The Israelis and Egyptians are still coordinating on the process because they do not want Hamas to leave Gaza and enter Egypt.) “Isang problema po iyan. So inaayos pa nila 'yung border arrangements. Pero tignan natin ito kasi sabi ng Israeli ambassador, it could be any day [...]
DTI eyes national warehouse database amid agri smuggling, hoarding
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) intends to establish a registry of warehouses across the country for better monitoring under a three-year plan amid the ongoing issue on agricultural smuggling and hoarding. Speaking to CNN Philippines’ The Source on Monday, DTI Sec. Alfredo Pascual said the government currently has no database of warehouses. This problem makes data collection more time consuming, he added Pascual said to address this, the DTI proposed a Three-Year Food Logistics Action Agenda to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which the chief executive has approved. Under this, a warehouse registry will be developed. “Part of the Three-Year Food Logistics Action Agenda that we developed is the establishment of a warehouse registry so at the national level we know where the warehouses [...]
Hamas tried to infiltrate Philippines in 2018, 2022 – NSC
Rescue teams search for victims in the wreckage of a bus that exploded in Jerusalem on February 25, 1996. At least 23 Israelis were killed and more than 50 injured in the explosion, in the attack claimed by the Hamas. AFP / Menahem Kahana MANILA, Philippines — Two alleged operatives of the Hamas militant group now at war with Israel were in the Philippines and attempted to operate and ally themselves with local extremists in 2018 and 2022, according to the National Security Council. NSC assistant director general Jonathan Malaya said one was a bomb expert who was arrested and deported five years ago“We saw there was intent by Hamas to launch activities in the Philippines. In fact, in 2018, there was a Hamas bomb maker that [...]
DA expects rice supply to be stable in Q1 2024
The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Saturday said the supply of rice in the country will be stable in the first quarter of 2024 DA spokesperson Arnel de Mesa said the peak of harvest for the wet season has already started this October, according to a Super Radyo DZBB report by Luisito Santos. The national stock inventory of rice is expected to last up to 77 days and up to 94 days at the end of the harvest this November, de Mesa added. Thus, the national stock inventory of rice is expected to reach up to 2.4 million metric tons at the end of the third quarter of 2024, which will last for about 60 to 90 days. The DA also expects the supply of rice to increase due [...]
Transport strike starts Monday
Abalos: 95% of transport groups to continue operations despite Monday strike Metro Manila, Philippines – Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos on Sunday said 95% of transport groups will not participate in the transport strike on Monday, assuring that no transportation paralysis would occur. Transport group Manibela called for the strike amid the allegations of corruption in Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). President Ferdiand Marcos Jr. ordered the suspension of LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III last week, but Manibela is bent on pushing through with the protest. “Ninety-five percent ng lahat ng transport groups ay kasama natin at sila ay hindi dadalo. Number two, nakaagapay ang kapulisan. Number three, may magandang plano rito. Ang central monitoring team will be MMDA (Metropolitan Manila Development Authority),” Abalos said during a meeting with [...]
‘Walang Gutom 2027: Food Stamp Program’ launched as flagship project
File photo of people lining up for food. The STAR / KJ Rosales, File photo MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced on Sunday that the government's food stamp program has been officially recognized as a flagship initiative. Malacañang issued Executive Order (EO) No. 44, formally introducing the "Walang Gutom 2027: Food Stamp Program" as a flagship project of the national government. The EO, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Thursday, designated the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) as the primary government agency responsible for executing and overseeing the food stamp program “The DSWD shall undertake the necessary steps for the successful implementation and expansion of the Food Stamp Program including, but not limited to, the identification of eligible beneficiaries and collaboration with [...]
PH, Canada ink agreement vs ‘dark vessels’
THE Philippines signed an agreement with Canada that will allow Manila to access for free Ottawa's satellite-based technology to detect dark vessels or ships that turn off their location transmitter often to engage in illegal fishing. The Canadian Embassy in Manila on Saturday said the two states signed the deal during the 6th Canada-Philippines Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation meeting in Canada on Oct. 13, 2023 "Canada and the Philippines held bilateral talks in Ottawa this week. (They) signed an agreement to deploy Canada's Dark Vessel Detection program to enhance Philippine maritime domain awareness," Colin Townson, Canadian Embassy head of political affairs office, said in a statement. Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman told reporters last month that Canada is prepared to deploy the system once the agreement [...]
Israel warns of new phase in war against Hamas, as Gaza civilians flee and Israeli troops gather near border
A new phase in Israel’s deadly war against Hamas is coming, Israeli forces said, warning that the past week of crippling airstrikes in Gaza could soon be followed by “significant ground operations.” Israeli troops and military equipment have massed at the border with Gaza as Israel prepares to ramp up its response to a deadly October 7 attack by the Islamist militant group Hamas, which controls the enclave. Warplanes continued to blast Gaza over the weekend, as civilians fled southward, following evacuation instructions by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Several United Nations agencies have warned that mass evacuation under such siege conditions will lead to disaster, and that the most vulnerable Gazans, including the elderly and pregnant, may not be able to relocate at all. For days, Israel has [...]
PH net external exposure rises to P2.3 T
Philippines’ net external liability position increased by 14.5 percent quarter-on-quarter to P2.3 trillion as of end-March this year from P2 trillion in end-December due to the government’s higher net indebtedness, based on central bank data. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in a report said that besides the higher net external liability position of the general government, the lower net external asset position of the other depository corporations (ODCs) contributed to the higher external exposures. The report is based on the latest Balance Sheet Approach (BSA) statistics of the BSP which indicated that by sector, the general government as of end-March is the largest net debtor in the country The BSP said the government’s net financial liability position widened by 3.8 percent quarter-on-quarter to P8.5 trillion in the first [...]
Philippines orders mandatory repatriation of Filipinos in Gaza
Mourners gather by the bodies of a man and a child who were killed in Israeli air strikes outside the morgue of al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City on October 12, 2023 as raging battles between Israel and the Hamas movement continue for the sixth consecutive day. Thousands of people, both Israeli and Palestinians have died since October 7, 2023, after Palestinian Hamas militants based in the Gaza Strip, entered southern Israel in a surprise attack leading Israel to declare war on Hamas in Gaza on October 8. AFP / Mohammed Abed MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs has ordered the mandatory repatriation and evacuation of Filipinos in Gaza after the Israel military announced that it is planning a coordinated offensive into the Palestinian territory by [...]
China backs PH action vs citizens in online gambling
THE Chinese Embassy in Manila reaffirmed its support for China-Philippine law enforcement cooperation, a day after 36 of its citizens were deported for their involvement in illegal Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs). "The Embassy will continue its support of China-Philippine law enforcement cooperation to safeguard social, economic, and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries," the Chinese Embassy said in a statement posted on its Viber account on Saturday, October 14 Prior to being deported on Friday, the 36 Chinese were arrested in Pasay City in August. The Chinese Embassy said that on August 1, a raid led by the Philippine Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (Paocc) was conducted on Rivendell Global Gaming Corp. Upon request from the Paocc, the Chinese Embassy in Manila verified the identity of the Chinese as [...]
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Firday confirmed that the systems of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) were hacked “Dito sa DOST, we confirm na mukhang breaches nga ito. Initial report is that there are some experts' data, [personal identifiable information] ng mga experts,” DICT Undersecretary Jeffrey Ian Dy told Dobol B TV. (For DOST, we confirm possible breaches. Initial report is that there are some experts' data involved) “Meron din kasing report sa PNP, pero iyan ay sobrang luma naman iyan so kumbaga hina-hype lang nila pero lumang tugtugin na rin iyon,” added Dy. (There is also a report in PNP but that is so old. Hackers are just hyping it.) While the data breach is “dangerous” [...]
Philippines to declare Hamas as terrorist group —Año
The Anti-Terrorism Council will push for the designation of Hamas as a terrorist group following its attack on Israel, National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año said on Friday “In solidarity with the people of Israel, we will push for the designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization under RA 11479 as a priority agenda of the Anti-Terrorism Council,” Año said in a statement. He said his office “strongly condemns the terrorist assault by Hamas against the State and People of Israel and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have perished.” He called the Hamas attack a “deadly and barbaric terrorist assault” on Israel. Because the attack was supposedly targeting civilians, Año said Israel has the right to defend and protect itself from Hamas. [...]
Diokno: China’s slowdown affects PH exports
Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno admitted that China's economic slowdown would have a minor impact on the Philippines. At the ASEAN Roundtable in Marrakech, Morocco, the government's chief economic manager said that China's economic slowdown would have an impact on Philippine exports. However, Diokno pointed out that the negative effects on exports could be partially mitigated by the strong demand from the substantial domestic market “The Philippines is expected to be less affected by China’s slower economic growth given that the potential slowdown in exports could be partially mitigated by the demand from our large domestic market,” Diokno said. In July, China ranked as the Philippines' fourth largest export trading partner, accounting for 12.3 percent or $758.22 million of the total for that month. Leading multilateral lenders, including the [...]
Magnitude 5 earthquake jolts Calaca, Batangas
The epicenter of said rumbling was recorded southwest of Calaca, Batangas at around 8:24 a.m. and had tectonic origins. Released / Phivolcs MANILA, Philippines (Updated 9:53 a.m.) — A strong magnitude 5 earthquake hit the province of Batangas on Friday morning, with state seismologists from Phivolcs fearing both damages and aftershocks. The epicenter of the rumbling was recorded southwest of Calaca, Batangas at around 8:24 a.m. and had tectonic origins Intensity V (strong) Lemery, Batangas Intensity IV (moderately strong) Cuenca, Bauan, Sta. Teresita, and San Luis, Batangas Tagaytay City, Cavite; Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila Intensity III (weak) Laurel, Batangas City, Batangas Tagaytay City, Cavite; Dolores, Quezon Intensity II (sightly felt) Talisay, and Rosario, Batangas; Magallanes, Cavite Boac, Marinduque City of Las Pinas, City of Pasay, Metro Manila Puerto Galera, Oriental [...]
Filipina nurse chose to stay with elderly ward as Hamas attacked Israel – diplomat
THE story of a Filipina nurse who died with her elderly ward after she refused to leave her even after Hamas militants attacked Israel has been posted on X (formerly Twitter) by some Israelis in a tribute to her courage in the face of death. Identified as Angeline, the Filipina could have escaped but chose to stay by her patient who was called "Nira" on Kibbutz Kfar, according to the posts Israeli troops search the scene of a Palestinian militant attack in the Israeli kibbutz of Kfar Aza on the border with the Gaza Strip on October 11, 2023. Thousands have died and the toll continues to climb dramatically five days after Palestinian militants launched a surprise attack on Israel, which has responded with a massive bombardment of Gaza. [...]
Gov’t working to bring home remains of Pinoys killed in Israel-Hamas war
Metro Manila, Philippines — Authorities are working on bringing home the remains of the two Filipinos who were killed in the attack on Israel by the Hamas militants, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said. “We are not sure if the families prefer to have them here but the process is ongoing,” DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega told CNN Philippines’ The Source on Thursday The Philippine Embassy in Israel confirmed on Wednesday that two Filipinos were killed in the ongoing war between the Jewish state and Hamas. In a briefing on Thursday afternoon, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) officer-in-charge Hans Cacdac said the identities of the Filipinos would not be disclosed per families’ request. One of the fatalities was caregiver Paul Vincent Castelvi, 42, from Pampanga. His father Nick [...]
PH beefs up naval presence in WPS
(UPDATE) THE Philippines has deployed another warship to the West Philippine Sea (WPS) to build up its presence in the volatile waters in the face of increasingly aggressive incursions by Chinese vessels. The Davao del Sur, a Tarlac-class landing platform, will join the Antonio Luna, a guided missile frigate, in patrolling the waterway BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602). Photo from Official Page of the Philippine Navy The Western Command (Wescom) said three warships stationed in Palawan have orders to stop foreign ships from conducting illegal activities in the WPS such as collecting corals and other marine resources. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. underscored the need to project a strong naval presence in the WPS. Brawner said there were no [...]
Meralco raises rates for October
Metro Manila, Philippines— Customers of Manila Electric Company (Meralco) will pay 40 centavos per kilowatt-hour (kWh) more this month, the power distributor announced on Wednesday. The adjustment brought the overall charge to ₱11.8198 per kWh from September's ₱11.3997 per kWh. It is equivalent to an increase of ₱84 for residential customers consuming 200 kWh Meralco pointed to higher generation charge for October, which went up by 30 centavos to ₱7.1267 per kWh from ₱6.8252 per kWh, in particular higher costs from independent power producers (IPPs) and power supply agreements (PSA). The utility company said charges from IPPs increased by 46 centavos to reflect higher cost of fuel utilized by First Gas plants. "Persisting supply restriction of the Malampaya natural gas field compelled the 1,000 MW First Gas-Sta. Rita and [...]
DMW: 23 Filipinos lined up for repatriation, pending Israeli gov’t approval
Metro Manila, Philippines — At least 23 Filipinos in Israel are waiting for approval from Israeli authorities to exit the Middle Eastern country and return to the Philippines, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). "Meron tayong nakalap na listahan ng 23 na inihahanay natin for repatriation subject to the approval of the proper Israeli authorities," DMW officer-in-charge Hans Leo Cacdac told the House committee on overseas workers affairs on Wednesday. "Kasi halimbawa, ang Ben Gurion International Airport, limited ang operation ngayon so kailangan may pagpapaalam. [Translation: We have a list of 23 Filipinos we are lining up for repatriation subject to the approval of the proper Israeli authorities because for example, the Ben Gurion International Airport, the operation is limited now so there needs to be permission.] [...]
Israel PM says ‘every Hamas member is a dead man’
JERUSALEM, Undefined - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday vowed to keep fighting Hamas, saying that every member of the Palestinian militant group was "a dead man". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu In his statement, Netanyahu for the first time clearly expressed Israel's intention to "destroy" Hamas following its surprise attack on Saturday. "Hamas is Daesh (Islamic State group) and we will crush them and destroy them as the world has destroyed Daesh," he said in a brief televised statement, the first delivered jointly with his war cabinet. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant added "we will wipe Hamas off the face of the earth". Netanyahu earlier temporarily settled his political differences and set up an emergency government including centrist former defence minister Benny Gantz for the duration of [...]
Senate swiftly approves OP’s proposed ₱10.7-B budget for 2024
Metro Manila, CNN Philippines — The Senate finance committee on Wednesday approved the proposed ₱10.7-billion budget of the Office of the President (OP) in just 20 minutes. "There [are] no callings that means I think they have a vote of confidence in your budget, so we will favorably endorse your budget for plenary consideration," Senator Sonny Angara said during the deliberations Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who presented the OP's budget, said its department believes the proposed allocation would be enough for the president to meet the demands as head of government. "We crafted this budget within the parameters and processes set by the DBM from which we sought no special treatment," Bersamin said. Amante Liberato, the deputy executive secretary for finance and administration of the OP, said the proposed [...]
LOOK: Ombudsman asks Congress to reduce its confidential, intel funds from P51M to P1M
Ombudsman Samuel Martires has formally asked the Senate and the House of Representatives to significantly decrease the P51-million confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) allocated to his office to P1-million under the proposed 2024 national budget. “Consistent with my earlier pronouncement before your committee, I would like to officially request that notwithstanding its investigative functions, that the Office of the Ombudsman be appropriated the amount of P1-million for its confidential and intelligence fund (CIF) in FYs 2024 and 2025 or until the end of my term of office as Ombudsman,” Martires said. Martires said the same in his letter to Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizady Co. head of the House Committee on Appropriations. A copy of his letter was also sent to House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and [...]
Ex-Pres. Duterte says he will demand a gov’t audit if Romualdez runs for president
Former president Rodrigo Duterte has declared if House Speaker Martin Romualdez decides to run for President, he would demand that an audit be made of how the fourth highest ranking official has spent public funds. (From left) Former president Rodrigo Duterte and House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Photos from Malacañang, Speaker’s office) In an interview on SMNI on late Tuesday night, Oct. 10, the former chief executive revealed that Romualdez, a first cousin of President Marcos and the former campaign manager of Vice President Sara Duterte, wanted to run as president. However, he also alleged that Congress was “the most rotten institution” in the country, and that the public needs to demand a liquidation report to see how its members spent taxpayers’ money. “Walang limit ‘yun ano nila [...]
Sara tackles education, security with Turkish envoy
VICE President Sara Duterte discussed education and security with Turkish Ambassador Niyazi Evren Akyol when he paid her a courtesy call at her office in Mandaluyong City on Monday Vice President Sara Duterte receives Turkish Ambassador Niyazi Evren Akyol in her office on Monday, October 9. PHOTO FROM OVP COMMUNICATIONS In her Facebook page Tuesday, Duterte said that Turkey is offering scholarship privileges to Filipino students. It also offered to help in the Mindanao peace process through the Independent Decommissioning Body. She also shared her sympathy to the victims of the terrorist attack in Ankara last October 1, while Akyol thanked the Filipino people who offered prayers to those affected in the violence. "Our unity is proof of both countries' concern and friendship that won't be destroyed by challenges [...]
6 countries join PH in sea exercises
WARSHIPS from six countries joined the Philippine Navy in training maneuvers off the coast of Luzon in a show of solidarity and cooperation. The exercise, Samasama (Together) 2023, highlights the commitment of the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, Canada and Australia to support an ally, the Philippines, Lt. Kim Paulo Lopez, director for Naval for South Public Affairs Office, said Philippine Navy Jose Rizal-class frigate, BRP Antonio Luna FF151 - PF, together with foreign #Navy counterparts carried out Division Tactics (DIVTACS) and Publication Exercise (PUBEX) among others during the first day of Exercise Samasama 2023 Sea Phase in the Naval Forces Southern Luzon area of operations. Photo from Philippine Navy Vice Admiral Carl Thomas, commander of the US 7th Fleet, said the exercise allows participating [...]
QC is wealthiest city for 3rd straight year – COA
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines — Quezon City emerged as the wealthiest local government unit in the country in 2022, according to data from the Commission on Audit (COA). Based on COA’s 2022 Annual Financial Report (AFR) for LGUs, Quezon City retained the top spot among the richest cities for the third straight year, even though its reported assets dropped by around ₱8 billion to ₱443.4 billion last year from ₱451 billion in 2021. Makati City was second richest with total assets amounting to P239.4 billion, followed by the City of Manila in the third spot with ₱77.5 billion. Meanwhile, Mandaue City in Cebu province overtook Cebu City by almost ₱4 billion. In 2021, Cebu City, the capital of the province, was richer than Mandaue by around ₱300 million. [...]
Local pork supply to fall short by yearend
Vendors sell fresh poultry and agricultural products at a public market in Lingayen, Pangasinan on September 30, 2023. STAR / Cesar Ramirez MANILA, Philippines — Local pork supply is projected to fall short in the fourth quarter of the year due to the expected surge in demand during the holiday season, requiring importation of the commodity to ensure adequate supply and stable prices, an official of the Department of Agriculture (DA) said yesterday. The agency is projecting a supply shortfall on local pork of up to 10 days, DA Assistant Secretary and spokesman Arnel de Mesa told journalists yesterday “The supply situation can be addressed by importation during the last quarter when demand for pork is high,” De Mesa said. “The shortage only covers local supply. That’s [...]
DFA: 2 Filipinos killed in Israel-Hamas war
Metro Manila, Philippines — Two Filipinos have been killed as the war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas rages on, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said. Manalo confirmed this development in a social media post Wednesday. “The Philippines condemns the killing of two Filipino nationals and all other acts of terrorism and violence as a result of Hamas actions against Israel,” he said. Manalo said the Philippine government was committed to cooperate with other nations for the “long-lasting resolution to the conflict, in accordance with pertinent UN Security Council Resolutions and the general principles of international law.” The official also assured Filipino nationals currently entangled in the rising conflict that the national government would provide assistance. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also expressed grief over the deaths. “My heart [...]
Oil firms announce huge rollback of pump prices
PHILIPPINE oil companies announced a huge rollback in prices of petroleum products starting on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023. Shell Philippines and Seaoil Philippines Inc. said they will slash gasoline prices by P3.05 per liter, diesel by P2.45 per liter and kerosene by P3 per liter. The Department of Energy-Oil Industry Management Bureau (DOE-OIMB) said in a Viber message that the big rollback was due to high interest rates and a strong dollar. Based on the DOE's Oil Monitor Report oil companies rolled back prices of petroleum products on October 3 -- P2 per liter for gasoline, P0.50 per liter for kerosene but increased diesel by P0.40 per liter.
Afghanistan earthquake has killed more than 2,400, Taliban say
People are seen among the ruins of dwellings after earthquakes in Herat province, Afghanistan.Photograph: Xinhua/Shutterstock The death toll from a series of earthquakes in western Afghanistan has risen sharply to more than 2,400 people, according to the Taliban government, as rescuers searched for survivors among the ruins of razed villages. A government spokesperson said that more than 10,000 had been injured,. “Many more people are still under the rubble” he told the Guardian. Saturday’s magnitude-6.3 quake – followed by eight strong aftershocks – jolted hard-to-reach areas 19 miles (30km) from the provincial capital of Herat, toppling rural homes and sending panicked city dwellers into the streets “Twelve villages in Zindah Jan and six in Ghoryan district are completely reduced to rubble. We expect the death toll will rise and [...]
7 of 10 Filipinos back reinstatement of ROTC – survey
Students attend their Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) training on January 28, 2023. Ernie Penaredondo MANILA, Philippines — More than 70 percent of the population, or seven out of 10 people, support the move to reinstate the mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, a nationwide online survey conducted by research and analytics firm Capstone-Intel Corp. found. The survey conducted from Sept. 25-30 aimed to gather insights on the controversial issue and assess the knowledge and perceptions of Filipino adults on the topic “This favorable perception towards ROTC is evident across various age groups, with individuals aged 25-34 exhibiting the highest level of support at 77 percent. This is closely followed by the age bracket of 35 to 44, with a support rate of 73 percent, and individuals [...]
PCG: Oil tanker in West Philippine Sea collision now in Singapore
Handout photo taken on Tuesday and released by the Philippine Coast Guard yesterday shows personnel retrieving the body of one of three Filipino fishermen who died in Infanta, Pangasinan after their boat was rammed by a foreign oil tanker near Panatag or Scarborough Shoal. AFP MANILA, Philippines — The crude oil tanker that collided with a fishing boat in Pangasinan and resulted in the death of three Filipino fishermen is now in Singapore, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said yesterday. Balilo added that the Port State Control (PSC) in Singapore would give way to the maritime officials in Marshall Islands, where MT Pacific Anna is registered and sailing under its flag, to conduct the investigation. An investigation will determine if MT Pacific Anna [...]
Israel warns of ‘long, difficult war’ vs. Hamas
Jerusalem, Undefined—Israeli forces battled holdout Hamas fighters and pounded targets in the Gaza Strip on Sunday as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of a “long and difficult” war ahead after the Palestinian militants launched a massive surprise attack. The Hamas attack came half a century after the outbreak of the 1973 Arab-Israeli war, stunning Israel and sparking bitter recriminations inside the country on what was widely seen as an enormous intelligence failure Gun fights raged in towns and on highways as the Israeli army deployed tens of thousands of forces to secure southern desert regions near the coastal enclave, aiming to rescue Israeli hostages and then evacuate the entire region within 24 hours. “We’ll reach each and every community till we kill every terrorist in Israel,” vowed military spokesman [...]
P1 provisional jeepney fare hike starts
A jeepney conductor in Philcoa, Quezon City holds signage showing the new PUJ fare, an increase of P1 to the minimum fare, which took effect yesterday. Jesse Bustos MANILA, Philippines — The P1 provisional fare increase will provide at least P200 additional earnings for drivers of public utility jeepneys after it took effect yesterday, transport group Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) said. PISTON national president Mody Floranda added that drivers do not need to secure a new fare matrix as the increase is just temporary. “The drivers just need to post an announcement that the minimum is already P13 so that the passengers are aware,” Floranda said The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) approved a provisional increase of P1 for both [...]
‘Foreign aircraft expected in WPS resupply missions’
The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Saturday said the continued presence of foreign aircraft could be expected in future resupply missions in the West Philippine Sea. “We can expect that because I think that is also important,” AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a television interview. A foreign aircraft from an unknown country was spotted monitoring the Ayungin Shoal during the resupply mission of the military and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Wednesday last week. “What they are providing us is a view from above so that, as I’ve said, we will know what is happening on the ground. That is very important in the formulation of strategies, campaigns, or operational plans that will be effective only in providing additional capability, which we don’t have yet,” Aguilar [...]
Israel, Gaza reel as death toll soars above 1,100 in war with Hamas
Fire and smoke rise above buildings in Gaza City during an Israeli air strike on October 8, 2023. AFP / Mahmud Hams SDEROT, Israel — Israel, reeling from the deadliest attack on its territory, declared war on Hamas Sunday as the conflict's death toll surged above 1,100 after the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise assault from Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu steeled the nation for a "long and difficult" war a day after Hamas fired a barrage of thousands of rockets at Israel and sent a wave of fighters who gunned down civilians and took at least 100 hostages. More than 700 Israelis have been killed since Hamas launched its large-scale attack, according to the latest toll from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Monday -- [...]
95% of Filipinos spend more on food, but half of population is eating less
Manila, Philippines — A new Pulse Asia survey released on Thursday revealed that while 95 percent of Filipinos have increased their spending on food, more than half of the population has started eating less. The new survey revealed that compared to 89 percent in September 2022, food is now 95 percent of households’ expenditures within the past three months. “At the same time that nearly all adults (95 percent) report spending more on food in the previous quarter, a small majority of the adult population (53 percent) say they consumed less food in the same period,” said Pulse Asia. Among locations, Mindanao was noted to have reduced its food consumption the most at 65 percent, with Balance Luzon following at 56 percent. Meanwhile, 56 percent of Balance Luzon and [...]
Romualdez denies politicking after House removes Sara Duterte’s confidential fund
INFO 'That's a bit too much speculation,' Romualdez says, reacting to theories that the House's removal of Duterte's confidential fund is an early infighting move related to the 2028 presidential elections MANILA, Philippines – Speaker Martin Romualdez brushed aside suspicions that the House of Representatives’ decision to strip Vice President Sara Duterte of her confidential funds for 2024 was politically motivated.In a rare press conference on Thursday, October 5, Romualdez said observers who see the move as an early political maneuvering by him ahead of the 2028 elections are “reading too much into it.” “That’s a bit too much speculation,” Romualdez insisted. “Under the circumstances, we felt it would be best that [the funds] be realigned to agencies and departments or areas we consider a priority.” Romualdez even borrowed [...]
Philippine-held features in WPS need P9B for development, security —AFP chief
The Armed Forces of the Philippines needs P9 billion for the development and security of the features the country occupies in the West Philippine Sea, chief of staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. said on Thursday. “There are a lot of estimates... but it is at P9 billion for the development of our islands. I hope it will be included," Brawner told reporters after his visit to Pag-asa Island with Speaker Martin Romualdez and leaders of the House of Representatives. “The name of the game in the West Philippine Sea is effective presence. Ibig sabihin kung sino ang nandiyan, siya ay may control ng area na naroon," he added. (It means whoever is present in the area has control.) "We still have a lot of things to do, a lot [...]
VP Duterte defends confidential funds: ‘It should not be constrained by time’
Metro Manila, CNN Philippines— Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte defended her agencies' use of confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs), saying ensuring the country's peace and order should not be constrained by time. "It matters not whether it takes one day or one year of spending; what truly matters is the safety and security of our people," she said during the 122nd police service anniversary of the Police Regional Office 13 in Butuan City on WednesdayThe Office of the Vice President (OVP) was heavily criticized by various groups, lawmakers, and the public after Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo revealed that its ₱125 million CIFs were spent in a span of 11 days. But for Duterte, CIFs will provide necessary resources to address unforeseen challenges – whether it be combating [...]
Medusa hackers release stolen PhilHealth data
Hackers have started exposing some of the data retrieved from ransomware attack against the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. after a ransom of $300,000 to unlock the data was not paid. Manila, Philippines — Filipinos should brace for a barrage of online scams in the coming days after hackers who stole data from state-run Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) have leaked members’ information to online – and possibly criminal – groups. Reports coming from dark web informants showed that documents stolen from PhilHealth were publicized in online marketplaces like Telegram starting yesterday. Deep Web Konek, a group dedicated to publishing activities in the dark web, shared a screenshot showing large packets of files containing alleged information on PhilHealth members As such, the group warned that PhilHealth members should be vigilant [...]
Boat ramming accidental – PCG
(UPDATE) THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) clarified on Thursday that the ramming of a boat last Monday that killed three Filipino fishermen did not happen in Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal, as earlier reported, and that it was an accident. "We would like to clarify that this happened in the waters of Pangasinan and not in the immediate vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc. I would like to correct the statement that we issued earlier," PCG spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela said in an interview Tarriela said the incident happened 180 nautical miles off Agno, Pangasinan. "This is closer to Pangasinan compared to Bajo de Masinloc," he said. "Based on the statements made by the Filipino fishermen, the area was very dark due to the adverse weather conditions at that [...]
New LPA outside PAR likely to develop into tropical depression — Pagasa
A new low pressure area (LPA) is brewing outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) which may enter the country over the weekend, the state-run weather agency said on Friday. Weather specialist Aldczar Aurelio of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said the weather disturbance was last spotted some 1, 950 kilometers east of Southeastern Luzon (outside PAR) PHOTO FROM DOST PAGASA "We are closely monitoring this LPA which has a chance to enter PAR over the weekend," Aurelio said. Meanwhile, Typhoon "Koinu," ("Jenny" in the Philippines) continues to enhance the southwest monsoon, locally known as "habagat," even after leaving the country, according to the Pagasa forecaster The trough of Jenny still affects areas in Ilocos Norte, Batanes and Babuyan Islands, the state weather bureau [...]
Soaring food prices push inflation to 6.1% after rice prices climb to 14 year-high
At a briefing yesterday, National Statistician Dennis Mapa said headline inflation, or the rate of change in average prices of goods and services typically purchased by consumers, rose to 5.3 percent in August from 4.7 percent in July. Philstar.com / Irra Lising Manila, Philippines (Updated 2:42 p.m.) — The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the inflation rate for September 2023 climbed to 6.1%, primarily driven by sharp rises in food prices, especially rice, and the constant increase in transportation costs due to surging fuel prices. The inflation, which measures how much prices for everyday goods and services are going up, was faster last month than the 5.3% recorded in August but slightly lower than the 6.9% print in September 2022. Rice prices in September surged by 17.9% — higher than [...]
PCG: Foreign vessel that rammed PH boat off Bajo de Masinloc violated protocols
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Pangasinan on Thursday said the foreign vessel that rammed a Filipino boat and killed three fishermen near Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea on Oct. 2 violated two international regulations. “It is mandated by convention na kung ano ‘yung pinakamalapit na barko, regardless kung sila ‘yung nakasagasa o hindi nakasagasa, sila ‘yung unang magreresponde at ire-rescue itong mga distressed persons sa pangyayari. Ito lang ‘yung initial na nakikita natin na violation nung barko,” PCG Pangasinan station commander Alex Corpuz told CNN Philippines’ The Source [Translation: It is mandated by convention that whatever ship is nearest, regardless of whether it was the one who rammed or not, it must be the first to respond and rescue distressed persons. This [...]
Senators eye realignment of DA’s ₱50-M confidential funds
Metro Manila, Philippines – Senators are considering the realignment of ₱50 million in confidential funds allotted to the Department of Agriculture (DA) under the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP). Upon questioning by Sen. Raffy Tulfo during the DA budget hearing on Thursday, agriculture officials told the Senate finance panel that the DA was allotted ₱50 million in confidential funds for surveillance against anti-smuggling operations and law enforcement “Nung lumabas ‘yung NEP [When the NEP came out], they (Department of Budget and Management) allocated ₱50 million confidential funds to be dedicated to surveillance operations for anti-smuggling operations,” DA Asec. James Layug said. Perplexed, Tulfo pointed out that surveillance of agricultural smugglers and law enforcement fell under the mandate of the Bureau of Customs, the Philippine National Police, and the Department of [...]
Marcos lifts rice price cap
Rice dealers display rice and their prices at New York Street, Cubao, Quezon City on April 16, 2023. STAR / Michael Varcas Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has announced the immediate removal of the price ceiling on rice after about a month since its imposition. In a press conference on Wednesday, Marcos said that “as of today,” the government is “lifting the price caps on rice, both for the regular-milled rice and the well-milled rice.” This comes after the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry presented "positive" indicators to Marcos on Tuesday reportedly showing the effectiveness of the price cap, which was implemented on September 5 to arrest surging rice prices Executive Order No. 39 had imposed a P41 per kilogram [...]
3 Pinoy fishers killed in boat ramming incident
Handout photo taken on Tuesday and released by the Philippine Coast Guard yesterday shows personnel retrieving the body of one of three Filipino fishermen who died in Infanta, Pangasinan after their boat was rammed by a foreign oil tanker near Panatag or Scarborough Shoal. AFP Manila, Philippines — Three Filipino fishermen were killed while 11 others were injured when a foreign crude oil tanker rammed a mother fishing boat moored some 85 nautical miles off Panatag Shoal before dawn last Monday, according to authorities. In a report sent to the media yesterday, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) identified the three fatalities as FFB Dearyn captain Dexter Laudencia, 47, and his crewmen Romeo Mejeco, 38, and Benedicto Olandria, 62, all from Barangay Calapandayan in Subic, Zambales The three reportedly [...]
Marcos vows justice for 3 dead fishermen
(UPDATE) PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday vowed to hold accountable those behind the death of three Filipino fishermen off Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) in the disputed West Philippine Sea. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said at 4:20 a.m. on Monday, Pacific Anna, a crude oil tanker bearing the flag of the Marshall Islands, rammed into FFB Dearyn while it was moored to an anchored fish float 85 nautical miles northwest of Bajo de Masinloc TRAGEDY The body of one of the three Filipino fishermen is transported to Barangay Cato, Infanta, Pangasinan on Tuesday Oct. 3, 2023. Photo courtesy of Philippine Coast Guard Eleven crew members of the vessel survived using eight service boats. The survivors transported the deceased to Barangay Cato in Infanta, Pangasinan. "We are deeply [...]
Philippines’ ODA loan, grants portfolio reach $32.40B in 2022 —NEDA
The total amount of official development assistance (ODA) loans and grants received by the Philippines grew in 2022, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) reported on Tuesday. In its 2022 ODA Portfolio Review report, the socioeconomic planning agency said the country’s ODA portfolio reached $32.40 billion, up by 0.50% from $32.24 billion in 2021. The total ODA received by the Philippines last year consisted of 106 loans, which amounted to $30.20 billion; and 320 grants, which totaled $2.20 billion. In a statement, the NEDA said the 2022 ODA portfolio “reflected the government’s initiative to sustain a continuous rollout of programs aimed at addressing the socioeconomic scarring brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, while also seeking to secure assistance for enabling social and economic transformation beyond the pandemic.” The $32.40-billion [...]
Nobel prize for medicine goes to COVID-19 vaccine researchers
Healthcare workers get vaccinated against COVID-19 during the launch of the bivalent Pfizer vaccine at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on June 22, 2023. STAR / Michael Varcas STOCKHOLM – Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman won the Nobel Medicine Prize on Monday for work on messenger RNA (mRNA) technology that paved the way for the groundbreaking COVID-19 vaccines. The pair, who had been tipped as favorites, “contributed to the unprecedented rate of vaccine development during one of the greatest threats to human health in modern times,” the jury said. The World Health Organization declared COVID a pandemic in March 2020 and the mRNA vaccines were approved for use in December that year Billions of doses have been injected around the world since then. Together with other [...]
PH launches bid for seat in Intl Maritime Organization Council
The Philippines, highlighting its maritime credentials, has launched its candidacy for a seat in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for term 2024-2025. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), in a statement on Monday, said the country has been producing "competent maritime professionals" and is "one of the largest" shipbuilding countries in the world. Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista (PNA photo by Joey Razon) Elections for the IMO Council will be held during the 33rd Session of the IMO Assembly from November 27 to December 6 in London, United Kingdom. The Department of Transportation said over 385,000 Filipino seafarers were deployed in 2022. The DFA co-hosted with the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) a diplomatic reception last September 26 to launch the country' s bid for the [...]
Importation hurting local poultry industry, says DA
Importation in recent years has led to huge opportunity losses for the local poultry industry, as the Department of Agriculture (DA) aims to reverse these losses and give the country better food security, an official said over the weekend. At the recent Poultry Forum 2023, Agriculture Undersecretary Deogracias Victor B. Savellano echoed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call to raise local livestock and poultry production by five times within the next five years He noted that chicken meat importation has been rising consistently over the last 15 years, from 45.772 million kilos in 2008, 67.264 million in 2009, 101.957 million in 2010, 127.227 million in 2011, to 411.069 million last year. United Broilers and Raisers Association (UBRA) chairman Gregorio San Diego also said during the same forum that importation has [...]
NASECORE says graft case vs. Arroyo is solid
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines — The group suing former president and incumbent Pampanga 2nd district Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo over an alleged misuse of the Malampaya fund almost one-and-a-half decades ago said it has built a solid case against the lawmaker. Pete Ilagan, president of consumer group National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms Inc. (NASECORE), said in an interview on Monday that the complaint may appear like it's resurrecting old arguments from a 2013 case that was dismissed by the Office of the Ombudsman, but this fresh pleading involves a bigger sum – ₱38.807 billion in royalties – that was not tackled in the 2013 graft case which covered only ₱900 million. Central to the argument was whether or not that multi-billion Malampaya fund was used as [...]
Philippines, US begin annual drills in disputed South China Sea
This handout photo taken on May 19, 2017 and received from the US Navy on May 25, 2017 shows the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (L) preparing for a replenishment-at-sea with the Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler USNS Pecos (R) in the South China Sea. The US warship USS Dewey sailed near a reef claimed by Beijing in the South China Sea on May 25, 2017, a US official said, the first such operation by US President Donald Trump's administration in the disputed waterway. The Chinese government charged later on May 25 that the US warship had entered its waters in the South China Sea "without permission", prompting China's navy to warn the vessel to leave. Kryzentia Weiermann / US Navy / AFP Manila, Philippines [...]
PH debt rises to ₱14.35T on weakening peso
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippines’ outstanding debt went up again in August as the peso continued to depreciate against the dollar, the Bureau of the Treasury said Monday. In a statement, the agency said debt stock reached ₱14.35 trillion as of August, up by 0.7% or ₱105.28 billion from the prior month. “[It] was primarily due to the peso depreciating from 54.834 to 56.651 against the US dollar over the reference period,” the treasury said. Year-on-year, the debt ballooned by more than ₱1.32 trillion The majority or 68.2% of the borrowings were from local sources. Data showed that domestic debt stood at ₱9.79 trillion, a slight dip from a month ago “due to large retail bond maturities.” External debt, on the other hand, climbed by 2.9% to ₱4.56 trillion [...]
‘Jenny’ maintains strength; Batanes under Signal No. 2
Satellite image shows Typhoon Jenny (Koinu) on October 3, 2023. RAMBB Manila, Philippines — Batanes remained under Wind Signal No. 2, with Typhoon Jenny (international name: Koinu) maintaining its intensity over the Philippine Sea, the state weather agency said Tuesday morning. Jenny was last spotted 350 kilometers east of Basco in Batanes, with peak winds of 165 km per hour near the center and gusts of up to 205 kph. It was moving west northwest at 15 kph. PAGASA issued Signal No. 2 for Batanes, indicating the potential for minor to moderate effects from strong gale-force winds. Meanwhile, the following areas were placed under Signal No. 1: Cagayan including Babuyan Islands Northern and eastern portions of Isabela (Maconacon, Divilacan, Palanan, Santa Maria, San Pablo, Tumauini, Cabagan, Ilagan [...]
S weaponized global information space – China
China, through its foreign ministry, on Sunday claimed that it was the United States that "invented" how to weaponize the global information space. The spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs made the remark in reaction to the US State Department report claiming that China invested billions of dollars to "spread disinformation globally. The report said that China seeks to reshape the global information environment to its advantage. Beijing has "invested billions of dollars to construct a global information ecosystem that promotes its propaganda and facilitates censorship and the spread of disinformation," the same report read. The US Department of State (DoS) report "is in itself disinformation as it misrepresents facts and truth," the MoFA said in a statement shared by the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines. "The relevant [...]
‘Pass-through’ fees suspension to lower prices of goods
Rina Papa, vice president of the Alliance of Concerned Truck Owners and Organizations (ACTOO), said the suspension of fees for the use of national and other roads not constructed or funded by LGUs would benefit the public as it would mean less cost in the transport of goods. Philstar.com / Irra Lising Manila, Philippines — Consumers should expect a decrease in prices of basic commodities after President Marcos ordered local government units (LGUs) to stop collecting “pass-through” fees from motor vehicles transporting goods or merchandise, a truckers group said on Saturday Rina Papa, vice president of the Alliance of Concerned Truck Owners and Organizations (ACTOO), said the suspension of fees for the use of national and other roads not constructed or funded by LGUs would benefit the public [...]
China debuts its first overwater high-speed train
China’s rail ambitions just keep growing. The latest addition to the country’s portfolio is a 277-kilometer (172-mile) high-speed train line along the southeastern coast, connecting the cities of Zhangzhou, Xiamen and Fuzhou, all three of which are in Fujian province. The maximum speed of the trains along this route is 350 kilometers (218 miles) per hour, according to China Railway, the state railway operator The first train on this line debuted on Thursday, September 28, departing from Fuzhou, the province’s capital, at 9:15 a.m. The new railway currently has 84 bridges and 29 tunnels, plus 20 km (12 miles) of track that goes over the sea, making it the country’s first over-water bullet train. China Railway says that it used intelligent robots and environmentally friendly corrosion-resistant steel to build [...]
Gibo plans reserve forces revamp
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro on Saturday expressed his intention to revise the current reserve forces paradigm structure of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). In a radio dzBB report, Teodoro said the AFP’s current design might not be able to withstand the looming threats against the country. With the ongoing tension in the Philippines’ territorial waters, citizens might need to take up arms to protect the country from unknown incoming threats, Teodoro added. AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. welcomed Teodoro’s plan to revise the armed forces’ structure. “Well, we welcome that revision because we see that the problems our country is facing now are really different from the problems we faced before,” said Brawner at the sidelines of the 44th National Reservist Week Culminating Activity [...]
Watersheds in Philippines are ‘in a state of crisis’ — report
This photo taken on November 24, 2022 shows a general view of the mountains as seen from the Masungi Georeserve in Baras. AFP/Jam Sta. Rosa Manila, Philippines — Watersheds in the Philippines are facing a dire crisis as over half of these vital basins remain unprotected from destructive activities such as large-scale mining and infrastructure development, a legal and policy research institution said Watersheds are vital for managing water resources, providing habitats for various species, and controlling floods, droughts and extreme climate events. Data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources showed that around 6.8 million hectares of watershed areas were assessed as vulnerable to deforestation, biodiversity loss, erosion, floods, landslides and water pollution, while 14.2 million hectares were identified as critical for the national irrigation [...]
Gov’t to release ₱5K cash aid to rice farmers amid El Niño
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the release of a ₱5,000 subsidy to small-scale rice farmers – from a fund totaling ₱12.7 billion – to help them amid El Niño and other agricultural challenges, Malacañang said on Saturday. The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Marcos gave his go signal on Thursday, a move that would aid around 2.3 million beneficiaries of the Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) program. “[This would] help them cope with the increasing cost of production and sustain their productivity even in the face of challenges like the coming El Niño [phenomenon],” said Marcos, who is also Agriculture secretary. RFFA beneficiaries are farmers tilling below two hectares of land. The PCO said they include members of farm cooperatives associations, irrigators associations, agrarian [...]
BSP sees inflation rate to settle within 5.3%-6.1% in September
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is expecting the inflation rate to continue its uptrend in September. In its month-ahead forecast released Friday, the BSP said it projects this month’s inflation to clock in within the range of 5.3% to 6.1%. The lower-end of the forecast range is the same level seen in August at 5.3% “Higher prices of fuel, electricity, and key agricultural commodities, as well as the peso depreciation are the primary sources of upward price pressures in September,” the central bank said. “Meanwhile, lower rice and meat prices could contribute to downward price pressures for the month,” it said. The BSP, following a Monetary Policy meeting on September 21, hiked its inflation outlook for 2023 to 58% from its previous forecast of 5.3%, and to 3.5% [...]
Guardians of WPS to get VP Duterte’s secret funds – House
Rep. Elizaldy Co | PHOTO: Official facebook page of Rep. Elizaldy Co Manila, Philippines — The House of Representatives will realign part of the P650 million in confidential funds for 2024 requested by Vice President Sara Duterte, who also heads the Department of Education, to agencies protecting the country’s interest in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co, the chair of the House appropriations committee, made the announcement on Wednesday, amid mounting criticism of the allocation of large secret funds to offices with no mandate for national security. The leaders of top political blocs in the chamber also separately called for the reallocation of the hard-to-audit funds to agencies with surveillance or intelligence-gathering requirements. “We will realign the confidential funds of various civilian agencies. [...]
Jenny now a tropical storm, may enhance Habagat
Tropical Depression Jenny has intensified into a tropical storm (international name: Koinu) and may enhance the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat), PAGASA said in its forecast on Saturday. At 4 a.m., the center of Jenny was estimated to be located at 1,145 km east of Central Luzon. Jenny has maximum sustained winds of 65 km/h near its center, gustiness of up to 80 km/h, and central pressure of 1000 hPa. The tropical storm is moving westward at 15 km/h From its center, strong to gale-force winds are extending outwards up to 330 km. PAGASA said it has not raised any tropical cyclone wind signals (TCWS) at this time. "Tropical Storm JENNY is not directly affecting the country at this time. However, due to the proximity of the track forecast to Extreme [...]
PH, EU against use of force in South China Sea
THE Philippines and the European Union urged countries with conflicting claims in the South China Sea to refrain from using force that fuels uncertainty in the region. They expressed serious concern over actions that endanger peace, security, and stability, and the rules-based international order, including recent incidents in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the appeal was made during the meeting of the first subcommittee on maritime cooperation under the Philippine-European Union partnership and cooperation agreement in Brussels, Belgium, on Wednesday, September 27 Screengrab from Video released by the Philippine Coast Guard shows one of its vessels being fired on by a Chinese water cannon in the disputed South China Sea on August 5. AFP Photo The next meeting will take [...]
All regions to see wage hikes before year ends—DOLE
All regions will see an increase in daily minimum wages before the year ends, the Department of Labor and Employment said Friday. Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said the increases are being carefully reviewed and considered by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) Laguesma said the wage boards are conducting public hearings in three regions, which will be followed by wage deliberations and the issuance of wage orders. Recently, the National Capital Region wage board granted a P40 increase for minimum workers in Metro Manila. This brought the daily minimum wage in the region from P57 to P610 for the non-agriculture sector and from P533 to P573 for the agriculture sector, service and retail establishments employing 15 or less workers, and manufacturing establishments regularly employing less than 10 [...]
Marcos speaks up on China’s barrier: ‘We are not looking for trouble’
President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. | PHOTOS: PCO and PCG Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday stressed his commitment to continue to protect the Philippine territories following China’s installation of floating barriers in the West Philippine Sea. Marcos finally broke his silence about the issue on the floating barrier installed by Chinese vessels that surfaced last Sunday. The Philippine Coast Guard has removed the barriers on the orders of the Commander in Chief. “Hindi tayo naghahanap ng gulo,” the President stressed in an ambush interview with media in Surigao “Basta gagawin natin, patuloy nating ipagtatanggol ang Pilipinas, ang maritime territory ng Pilipinas, ang mga karapatan ng mga fishermen natin namangisda doon sa mga areas kung saan sila nangigisda daan-daang taon na,” he said. (We [...]
Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers approved
The Senate on Wednesday approved on third and final reading the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers with 14 affirmative votes, no abstention and no negative vote, in time for the celebration of the National Maritime Week. The measure aims to uphold the welfare of Filipino seafarers by mandating decent working and living conditions, standardizing terms and conditions of employment, regulating manning agencies, and incentivizing maritime stakeholders, among others. "I would like to thank my colleagues for their support for this measure, especially Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri who has been supportive of this bill from day one," said Sen. Rafael "Raffy" Tulfo, principal sponsor and one of the authors of Senate Bill 2221. Sen. Rafael “Raffy” Tulfo. Photo from Senate "I am equally thankful to the seafarers and their [...]
Support for Marcos administration slips
Sentiments favorable to the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. have slipped, while sentiments opposed to the Marcos administration have risen, a survey conducted by Publicus Asia found. In Publicus' third-quarter survey, the results of which were released recently, 43 percent of respondents expressed pro-administration sentiments, down from 48 percent in the second-quarter survey President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Photo from PCO In a statement issued Thursday, the polling firm said the decrease indicated "that fewer individuals are aligned with the current administration as well as its priorities compared to the previous quarter." Anti-administration sentiments grew from 18 percent in the first quarter to 23 percent in the third quarter. The shift indicates that a "greater number of respondents" are opposed to or dissatisfied with the administration's leadership, [...]
China warns Philippines not to ‘stir up trouble’ over Scarborough
This satellite photo shows the damage on coral reefs in the Scarborough Shoal due to Chinese fishermen's harvesting of giant clams. AMTI, file Manila, Philippines — Beijing warned Manila on Tuesday not to "stir up trouble" after the Philippine Coast Guard said it removed a floating barrier at a disputed reef that was allegedly deployed by China to block Filipino fishermen from the area. Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea has long been a source of tension between the countries. China seized the ring of reefs from the Philippines in 2012 and has since deployed patrol boats. The latest spat was sparked by a 300-metre (328-yard) floating barrier that was found across the entrance of the shoal last week during a routine Philippine government resupply mission to fishermen [...]
Marcos thumbs down proposal to reduce imported rice tariff
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday rejected the proposed tariff reduction on imported rice being pushed by his economic managers. “We decided with the agriculture and economic managers that it was not the right time to lower the tariff rates because the projection of world rice prices is that it will go down. So, this is not the right time to lower tariffs. Tariffs are generally lowered when the price is going up,” he said. His made the announcement shortly after a sectoral meeting in Malacañang on Tuesday where the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) presented updates on the proposed tariff reduction. Earlier in the day, Senator Imee Marcos joined rallyists opposing the proposed zero tariff on imported rice as she expressed confidence that her brother would not [...]
DFA says removal of China’s barrier ‘consistent’ with PH position
Metro Manila, Philippines — Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo said the removal of a floating barrier installed by China in a disputed shoal was "consistent" with the position of the government on the West Philippine Sea. "Technically, we have a right to practice our sovereignty and our sovereign rights. So, it would have been consistent with our position but we're still waiting for the full report," he said in a chance interview on Tuesday. Speaking to lawmakers later that day, Manalo also said the government plans to file a diplomatic protest over the matter “Once we get confirmation sa Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), we, of course, will issue a protest to the Chinese Embassy here and we will cite the reasons why,” he said during a Senate [...]
House political leaders to reallocate intel, confidential funds to security agencies
Metro Manila, Philippines — Leaders of political parties in the House of Representatives have decided to realign confidential and intelligence funds to agencies tasked to ensure national security, days after China illegally put up a floating barrier in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). In a joint statement released on Wednesday, the lawmakers said they view China's latest action in the disputed waters "with serious concern. They said not only did the floating barrier endanger Filipino fishermen and halt their livelihood, but it also triggered more conflict. "We extend our collective support to the Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) swift and diplomatic actions in removing the barriers at Scarborough Shoal. We commend their dedication to safeguarding our nation's interests and standing up for the rights of our Filipino fishermen," the joint statement [...]
Recycling plastic not enough, warns UN body
WITH the production of plastic on the rise worldwide and creating ever more pollution, the UN environment chief warned that humanity cannot just recycle its way out of the mess, and she called for a total rethink about the way we use plastics. "There are different sort of onramps to the highway to solutions. But I think everybody recognizes that the status quo is just not an option," said Inger Andersen, director of the UN Environment Program, in an interview Thursday with AFP on the sidelines of the General Assembly in New York Inger Andersen, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme, speaks during an interview at UN headquarters in New York City on September 21, 2023. As plastic production increases, polluting the [...]
More farmers’ groups join calls to remove Diokno, Balisacan
Farm workers check on their crops, spray organic pesticides, and remove unwanted weeds at a rice field in Tanay, Rizal on September 19, 2023. Ernie Penaredondo / The Philippine STAR Manila, Philippines — More farmers’ groups joined the calls for President Marcos to remove Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan over their alleged preferential treatment on importation by moving to bring down tariffs on rice and other imported agricultural products. At least 20 more peasant organizations signed the petition to replace Diokno and Balisacan, after six groups initiated the campaign to axe the two members of the economic team. Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) chairman Rosendo So vowed that more protest actions will be held in front of the Department of Finance building [...]
Sandbar near Pag-asa Island found full of dead, crushed corals
A sandbar near Pag-asa Island was found to be full of dead and crushed corals, which experts say is a common procedure done by China before it starts reclamation activities. As reported by Joseph Morong on GMA’s “24 Oras Weekend” on Sunday, Sandy Cay 2 was found to have been covered with piles of dead and crushed corals almost as high as a human—compared with Sandy Cay 1, where the sand is still uncovered. Sandy Cay 2 is one of four sandbars near Pag-asa Island in the town of Kalayaan, located in the West Philippine Sea. It is also said to be blocked by vessels of the China Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia vessels. Prior to entering the area, a ship of the China Coast Guard also attempted [...]
PhilHealth hackers demand $300,000 – DICT
Philhealth is the country's national health insurance system. The STAR / File Manila, Philippines — After the Medusa ransomware infected the systems of state health insurer Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) on Sept. 22, cyberhackers have demanded $300,000 or approximately P16 million, according to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) “They have already made a demand for $300,000 for them to do two things: One is to delete the data that they captured, and two, is so they would give us the key so we can decrypt the data that they encrypted,” DICT Undersecretary Jeffrey Ian Dy told The STAR yesterday. The stolen data from PhilHealth has been posted on the dark web, he added. The National Computer Emergency Response Team of the DICT Cybersecurity [...]
DepEd pilot tests MATATAG curriculum in Malabon
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) on Monday started the pilot implementation of the MATATAG K-10 program in Tinajeros National High School in Malabon City. The recalibrated program will be implemented in Grade 7 in the school, which comprises 19 sections with a total of 681 students. Present during the event were DepEd Undersecretary Gina Gonong, DepEd Malabon Superintendent Dr. Cecille Carandang, and Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval. Aside from Tinajeros National High School, four other schools from Malabon are part of the initial run of the decongested curriculum. These are Damapalit Integrated School, Santiago Syjuco Memorial School, Muzon Elementary School, and Santiago Syjuco Memorial Integrated Secondary School. Speaking to reporters after the flag ceremony, Sandoval said the selection of five pilot schools was "very challenging," [...]
China walls in Scarborough
Sets 300-m floating barrier to keep Filipino fishermen out of shoal Philippine officials and lawmakers on Sunday denounced China’s installation of a floating barrier in the southeast portion of Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough) Shoal, which prevents Filipino fishermen from entering the area to catch fish. The floating barrier, with an estimated length of 300 meters, was discovered by personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) onboard the BRP Datu Bankaw, which conducted a maritime patrol mission on Friday, Sept. 22 in the vicinity of the shoal. Three Chinese Coast Guard boats and a Chinese maritime militia service boat installed the floating barrier upon the arrival of the BFAR vessel, the PCG said in a statement. Filipino fishermen note that the [...]
Marcos certifies as urgent bill imposing tougher penalties vs agri economic sabotage
A rice farmer works in a paddy field in Pulilan, Bulacan province on August 19, 2023. AFP / Earvin Perias Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has certified a measure imposing stiff penalties for agricultural economic sabotage as urgent, which expedites the bill’s passage in the Senate. Senate Bill 2432 seeks to repeal Republic Act 10845, also known as the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016. Sen. Cynthia Villar, who chairs the committee on agriculture, food and agrarian reform, has criticized the existing law as a “failure” due to the Bureau of Customs recording zero convictions over seven years The bill defines economic sabotage as an activity that “disrupts the economic by creating artificial shortage, promoting excessive importation, manipulating prices and supply, evading payment or underpayment [...]
VP Sara meets with South Korea education minister in Seoul
Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte on Thursday, September 21, 2023 meets with South Korean officials led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Ju-ho Lee in Seoul to discuss education-related topics. Duterte is in South Korea to attend the Global Education and Innovation Summit where she is one of the keynote speakers. IAN CRUZ/GMA Integrated News Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte on Thursday met with Republic of Korea Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Ju-ho Lee in Seoul, South Korea to discuss education-related mattersDuterte said it was an opportunity to learn about the education system of different countries, considering that she serves as the concurrent secretary of the Philippines’ Department of Education (DepEd), and the president of the Southeast Asian Ministers [...]
South Korean shipbuilder offers submarines to Philippine Navy
Hanwha Ocean, a South Korean shipbuilding and offshore company, plans to participate in the Philippine Navy’s modernization efforts, focusing on submarines, high-speed crafts, and large landing ships. The company proposed an advanced underwater solution, the Jangbogo-III PN Submarine, as part of its Submarine Acquisition Project for the Philippine Navy The submarine is built upon the success of the Korean Navy’s Jangbogo-III submarines and offers unparalleled operational capability with the latest propulsion system, Sound Navigation and Ranging and Combat Management System, and Lithium-ion Battery Technology. Admiral (ret) Steve SK Jeong, Head of International Business of Hanhwa Ocean, former ROKN Submarine Force Commander, said the proposal will not only enhance the Philippines’ defense capability but also provide lifetime support for the Submarine Force of the Philippine Navy. He said this signifies [...]
Marcos called for civilian-led approach to Ayungin Shoal, NTF-WPS says
This photo taken on August 22, 2023 shows Chinese coast guard ships (L and R) corralling a Philippine civilian boat chartered by the Philippine navy to deliver supplies to Philippine navy ship BRP Sierra Madre in the disputed South China Sea. AFP / Ted Aljibe Manila, Philippines — The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea said that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called for a "civilianized" approach to managing the situation at Ayungin Shoal. Jonathan Malaya, spokesperson for the NTF-WPS, explained in an interview with ANC how to respond to the presence of China Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels near Ayungin. "That is a decision that has to be made by higher authorities because we want to keep the tension low in the WPS," [...]
DepEd learning tools get budget hike
BUDGET Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said Monday that the Department of Education's (DepEd) learning materials and education facilities got a major boost in the proposed 2024 national budget BUDGET Secretary Amenah Pangandaman. File Photo DepEd's Basic Education Facilities Program was given a significant 44-percent increase in the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP), amounting to P33.755 billion compared to its P23.417 billion allocation in 2023. "Through revitalized education, I aspire to provide every Filipino with a fighting chance to manage life's uncertainties so they can choose to achieve their full potential," Pangandaman said in a statement. The said program will focus on nine areas, including the construction of 7,879 new classrooms and technical vocational laboratories; the repair and rehabilitation of 10,050 classrooms; the procurement of 21,557 sets of school [...]
Marcos sets new palay prices
The National Food Authority (NFA) Council chaired by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday set a new price range for buying palay in order to improve the income of farmers in the country. In a video message, the President said he called for a meeting with the NFA Council to discuss the price of palay, and it was decided that the buying price for dry palay would be P23 from P19 and for wet, P19 from P16. He said the move aimed to improve farmers' income and ensure sufficient supply of the staple. "We needed to look into the wet and dry palay because the situation changed," Marcos said. "So, they will now start earning. We also have a price cap to control the rice prices," he added. The [...]
China’s foreign minister holds talks with Russia’s Lavrov in Moscow
China’s foreign minister has held talks with his Russian counterpart in Moscow as the two countries inch closer amid fraying ties with the West over the Ukraine war and the militarisation of the Pacific. Wang Yi opened his talks with Sergey Lavrov by hailing “strategic cooperation” between the two countries and their shared commitment to a “multipolar world” and a “more just world order” “China and Russia, as leading global powers and permanent members of the UN Security Council, bear special responsibility for maintaining global strategic stability and global development,” Wang said. The Moscow trip comes days after Wang held talks with United States President Joe Biden’s National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan in Malta. Sino-US ties have deteriorated in recent years over issues ranging from trade to the Chinese [...]
Oil prices rise on supply deficit concerns
Oil prices rose in early trade on Tuesday for the fourth consecutive session, as weak shale output in the U.S. spurred further concerns about a supply deficit stemming from extended production cuts by Saudi Arabia and Russia. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose 90 cents, or 1 percent, to $92.38, by 0018 GMT, just under a 10-month high reached on Monday, while global oil benchmark Brent crude futures rose 27 cents, or 0.3 percent, to $94.70 a barrel Prices have gained for three consecutive weeks. U.S. oil output from top shale-producing regions is on track to fall to 9.393 million barrels per day (bpd) in October, the lowest level since May 2023, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) said on Monday. It will have fallen for three months in a row. Those estimates come [...]
Taiwan to set up bases in PH for academic exchange
The Taiwanese government is set to establish ten overseas bases, with the Philippines being the primary location, as part of its study and work program to boost the region’s workforce. The Ministry of Education plans to invest 5.2 billion New Taiwan dollars (P9.3 million) from 2024 to 2028 to promote international student enrollment and stay in Taiwan Dr. Lee Tien-Shang, President of Kun-Shan University (KSU), announced the plans to establish overseas bases in Manila, Cebu, and Iloilo, among other locations. The bases will serve as platforms for academic and industry-academia exchange and collaboration between Taiwan and the Philippines. Each location will promote high-quality Mandarin, cultural experiences, and preparatory courses, with the aim of deepening the international educational exchange and cooperation between universities in both countries. KSU will establish new [...]
SC asked to declare unconstitutional Maharlika Investment Fund Act
The Supreme Court (SC) was asked on Monday, Sept. 18, to declare unconstitutional the Maharlika Investment Fund Act of 2023 under Republic Act No. 11954 that was signed into law by President Marcos last July 18 to be managed by the Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC) which now has a seed capital of P150 billion. In a petition, the SC was also asked to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) or preliminary injunction or status quo ante order (SQAO) to stop immediately the implementation of RA 11954, and to conduct oral arguments. The petition was filed by Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, former congressman and Bayan Muna Chairman Neri Javier Colmenares, and former Bayan Muna congressmen Carlos Isagani Zarate and Ferdinand Gaite Named respondents in the petition were Executive Secretary [...]
Cops arrest 11 Chinese over alleged trafficking
The Southern Police District arrested 11 Chinese nationals in Paranaque City over alleged involvement in human trafficking. The police operation took place at Unit 1811, 18th Floor, SoleMare Parksuites in Barangay Baclaran following the issuance of a search warrant issued by Executive Judge Jaime Guray of the Regional Trial Court, Parañaque City. One of the suspects was identified as Lin Shengjie, also known as “Boss Lin or Lin Wei,” 32, who faces complaints for violation of Republic Act 10591 and RA 9208. His accomplice, Xiao Ji, alias “Boss Kee” is currently at large and is now the subject of a manhunt operation. Those arrested also include Chinese nationals identified only by their aliases Weichao, Liulizhang, Honghualiang, Luyzhenggang, Zhangmingpeng, Pengke, Dengchaofan, Cai Deqiang, and Chujunyi, and their 48-year-old Filipino cohort [...]
Poll: Fewer Pinoys optimistic economy will improve
Shoppers flock to Divisoria for last-minute school supplies shopping on August 26, 2023. STAR / Ernie Penaredondo Manila, Philippines — Less than a majority of Filipinos now think that the Philippine economy will improve within the year, a survey conducted by OCTA Research showed. Results of the July 22 to 26 survey released yesterday found that 46 percent of the respondents believed that the economy would be better in six months. Some 43 percent said it would remain the same, while six percent said it would worsen. Another six percent said they do not know Compared to a similar survey conducted in March, optimism in the Philippine economy dropped by four points from 50 percent. Pessimism stayed at six percent. In October 2022, those who believed that [...]
Gov’t inflation targets no longer feasible — ECOP
Employers expressed strong doubt that the targeted year-end inflation rate of four percent can still be achieved, saying a 5.6 percent rate is more likely given the rising cost of prices in the local market. Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr., president of the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), issued his projection during the “Pandesal Forum” on Friday, Sept. 15, which gathered business leaders from other business groups such as the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII), to discuss their opposition on the pending wage hike bill in the Senate. “Yung inflation target natin na four percent sana by end of the year di na mangyayari yun baka 5.6 percent siguro. Next year, yung target natin na [...]
Maharlika Fund gets P25 billion from DBP
The planned operationalization of the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) before the end of the year became closer to fruition after it received fresh funding from state-owned Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) In a text message to GMA News Online on Friday, DBP president and CEO Michael de Jesus confirmed that the lender remitted to the Bureau of Treasury (BTr) its mandatory contribution for the initial capital of the MIF —the country’s very first sovereign wealth fund. “Yes, we remitted P25 [billion] to BTR today,” de Jesus said. The DBP chief’s announcement came on the heels of Land Bank of the Philippines’s announcement that it remitted to Treasury its mandated P50-billion contribution to the Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC), pursuant to the Republic Act No. 11954, which created the MIF. [...]
Underwater surveys show reef damage in Rozul Reef, Escoda Shoal — Coast Guard
Screengrab from Philippine Coast Guard shows damage to marine environment and coral reef. Screengrab from Philippine Coast Guard Manila, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard said Monday that its surveys have revealed “extensive” damage to the marine environment and coral reefs in areas frequented by Chinese maritime militias in the West Philippine Sea. Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for West Philippine Sea matters, said that the underwater surveys of the seabeds in Rozul (Iroquois) Reef and Escoda (Sabina) Shoal showed that the marine ecosystem there “appeared lifeless, with minimal to no signs of life.”Surveys conducted in Escoda Shoal also spotted visible discoloration of its seabed, which indicates that “deliberate activities may have been undertaken to modify the natural topography of its underwater terrain.” Tarriela added that the presence of [...]
Gasoline, diesel, kerosene prices up by at least P2/liter Tuesday
Oil firms are set to implement a major hike in pump prices of petroleum products on Tuesday, marking the tenth straight week of upward movement for gasoline and 11th for both diesel and kerosene In separate advisories, Chevron Philippines Inc. (Caltex) and Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. said they will hike prices per liter of gasoline by P2.00, diesel by P2.50, and kerosene by P2.00. Cleanfuel will implement the same changes, excluding kerosene which it does not carry. The adjustment will take effect at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, September 19, except for Caltex, which will hike prices at 12:01 a.m., and Cleanfuel at 4:01 p.m. the same day. Other firms have yet to make similar announcements for the week.
Rice products worth ₱40M seized in raids — BOC
Metro Manila, Philippines — Authorities have seized smuggled rice products worth ₱40 million in two separate operations in Las Piñas and Bacoor, Cavite, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) reported Sunday. The rice products came from Vietnam, Thailand, and China, the BOC said. The owner was found to be selling a 25-kilo sack of rice from Vietnam at ₱1,320, or over ₱52 per kilo, exceeding the prescribed price ceiling President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier ordered a nationwide price ceiling which capped the price of regular milled rice at ₱41 per kilogram and well-milled rice at ₱45 per kilogram. “Prior to this inspection, an extensive investigation, surveillance, and test purchases were carried out,” the BOC said in a statement. Authorities also granted the owner of the warehouse 15 days to submit documents, [...]
Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes around island
Taipei, Taiwan – More than 100 Chinese warplanes and nine navy ships were detected around Taiwan, authorities in Taipei said Monday, describing the number as a “recent high”. Beijing claims Taiwan as its own territory to be seized one day, by force if necessary, and has ramped up diplomatic and military pressure in recent years as relations have soured. “Between the morning of September 17th to 18th, the Ministry of National Defence had detected a total of 103 Chinese aircraft which was a recent high and has posed severe challenges to the security across the Taiwan Strait and in the region,” it said in a statement. Beijing’s “continued military harassment can easily lead to a sharp spike in tension and worsen regional security,” the ministry said, as it called [...]
PH external debt climbs to $117.9B as of end-June
Metro Manila, Philippines— The country’s foreign debt went up by 9.5% at the end of June, one year after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assumed office. Based on preliminary data, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said late Friday that external debt reached $117.9 billion, higher than the $107.7 billion level in June 2022 The central bank attributed the increase to the $7.9 billion in net availments, and the change in the scope to include non-residents’ holdings of Peso-denominated debt securities issued onshore. “Meanwhile, the transfer of Philippine debt papers issued offshore from non-residents to residents of $1.3 billion and negative FX revaluation of $295 million partially tempered the year-on-year increase in the debt stock,” it added. However, the latest figure reflected a decrease of 0.8% from the $118.8 billion [...]
Comelec to BSKE candidates: No socmed posting until campaign period
Candidates for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) are strictly prohibited from promoting themselves on social media until the campaign period starts, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said. Comelec Chairperson George Garcia reminded candidates about Section 80 of the Omnibus Election Code, which prohibits election campaigns or partisan political activity outside the designated period Under Comelec Resolution 10905, campaigning is not allowed between September 3 and October 18, 2023. The campaign period is from October 19 to 28. "Once nag-file ka ng certificate of candidacy, ikaw ay kandidato na. Bawal ang pag-post, bawal ang pangangamay, bawal ang pag-iikot, bawal ang pamimigay ng kung anu-ano dahil ikaw ay kandidato na," Garcia said in the latest episode of "The Mangahas Interviews.'' “At the same time, kung mayroon kang social media [...]
Marcos: PH has shown it will not give up territory
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippines has made clear it will not give up any of its territory despite having a relatively small force compared to "others we encounter in the West Philippine Sea (WPS)," President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said in a speech before members of the military on Friday. Speaking at the Western Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Palawan, Marcos saluted troops for "holding the line. "In comparison doon sa mga ibang nakakatagpo natin doon sa WPS ay kahit na maliit lang ang naihaharap natin na puwersa ay maganda naman ang nagiging resulta," the commander-in-chief said. "Dahil kahit papaano ay nagagawa natin na nagiging maliwanag, hindi lamang sa Pilipinas, kung hindi sa buong mundo na tayo ay di tayo papayag na kukunin sa [...]
Philippines losing over P100 billion yearly due to cancer
Stock photo of a peso money bill. Philstar.com / Jovannie Lambayan Manila, Philippines — The country is losing over P100 billion yearly due to cancer, a health economist said. Dr. Val Ulep, a senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, cited a recent study they published showing that the economic cost of cancer would reach around P110 billion annually, or around one percent of the country’s gross domestic product. “When you look at the total economic cost in the Philippines, out of that P110 billion, around P40 billion refers to the medical cost such as hospital expenses, and the rest, P70 billion, is the indirect cost,” Ulep said at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum on Wednesday He explained that indirect cost covers their [...]
Pulse Asia: 4 in 10 dissatisfied with senior high school program
Only 41 percent of Filipinos are satisfied with the senior high school program, a Pulse Asia survey commissioned by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian showed. Of the 1,200 respondents surveyed nationwide, over four in 10 or 42% were dissatisfied with the senior high school program under the K-to-12 curriculum, the poll noted Gatchalian said the survey reflects the Department of Education program’s failure to make graduates college-ready and work-ready. The DepEd, however, said it has created the National Task Force to review the implementation of the SHS program, and that the Bureau of Curriculum Development has also started its review of the senior high curriculum following the revision of the K-to-10 curriculum into the recently launched Matatag system. According to a 2020 discussion paper by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies [...]
Rice price ceiling to take effect on September 5
Rice prices in Baguio City increase on Aug. 10, 2023 due to a problem in supply caused by Typhoon Egay and the continuous rains in Benguet. The STAR / Andy Zapata Jr., File photo Manila, Philippines — The price cap on rice in the Philippines will take effect on Tuesday, September 5, according to the Office of the Executive Secretary (OES). Executive Order 39, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on August 31, sets a price limit of P41 per kilogram for regular milled rice and P45 per kilogram for well-milled riceRice is essential for a population of 110 million in the Philippines. However, the country cannot produce sufficient rice for its needs, consistently ranking among the world's leading rice importers. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has given [...]
Kalayaan optimistic of tourism boost after ‘expedition tours’ launch
File photo shows tourists wearing masks by the beach. STAR / File Manila, Philippines — Fancy exploring Philippine territory in the disputed West Philippine Sea as a tourist? For a year now, the municipal government of Kalayaan in Palawan has been offering week-long tours that attract travelers who seek adventure and long to see natural wonders – and has since boosted its local tourism. Among the first batch of tourists who visited the archipelago last April was 30-year-old Julie Ann Lope Lope shared with The STAR that she did not hesitate to join after a friend saw the tour on Facebook and recommended it to her. Onboard an expedition yacht where she and other tourists spent the night during the week-long excursion, the trip from the port of Buliluyan [...]
Zubiri says Senate ‘laser-focused’ on legislated wage hike, pushes passage before year-end
Metro Manila, Philippines — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Thursday said he wants the Senate to pass the proposed ₱150 across-the-board wage increase before year-end or by December, adding senators are "laser-focused" on its passage. "The cost of living has increased all over the country and they need that decent wage para makabuhay sila nang disente, kaya itutulak talaga namin 'yan [so they will have decent living. That's why we will push for it]," Zubiri told reporters. "We are laser-focused on that," he added. "Marami lang issue na dumarating [It's just that many issues are surfacing]. We will take it up to the floor and pass it as a shared advocacy of the Senate." Last March, Zubiri filed Senate Bill 2002, or the Across-the-Board Wage Increase Act of [...]
Hanna to exit Philippines; monsoon rain to continue
Typhoon Hanna was monitored at 375 kms east northeast of Itbayat, Batanes and was moving northwestward at 20 kilometers per hour, carrying maximum sustained winds of 140 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 170 kph. PAGASA MANILA, Philippines — Heavy rains are forecast to continue in the next few days due to the southwest monsoon, even as Typhoon Hanna (international name Haikui) could exit the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) by tomorrow, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Typhoon Hanna was monitored at 375 kms east northeast of Itbayat, Batanes and was moving northwestward at 20 kilometers per hour, carrying maximum sustained winds of 140 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 170 kph. Hanna will make landfall over [...]
Petron hiking LPG price by P6.65/kg, others to follow
Petron Corp. said Thursday it is increasing its liquefied petroleum gas or cooking gas prices by P6.65 per kilogram, or P73.15 per 11-kg tank, effective today to reflect the higher contract price of LPG in the world market. Petron said it will also increase the price of auto LPG by P3.70 per liter (VAT-inclusive) by 12:01 a.m. on Sept. 1 The country’s lone refiner said in its advisory the price hikes reflect the international contract price of LPG for the month of September. Other LPG retailers are also expected to adjust prices. The price increase is higher than the forecasted P2 to P5 per kg by industry players last week. Sources concurred with the probable hike, which would translate to P22 to P55 per kg increase for every 11-kilo [...]
Rains to continue as three weather systems enhance southwest monsoon – PAGASA
Metro Manila, Philippines — Rains are expected to continue over the weekend as three weather disturbances enhance the southwest monsoon or habagat, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Friday. “Itong si bagyong Saola (formerly Goring), Severe Tropical Storm Hanna, at isa pang severe tropical storm sa malayong parte ng ating Pacific Ocean ay nageehance po ng habagat o southwest monsoon lalo na dito sa malaking bahagi ng Luzon," PAGASA weather specialist Benison Estareja said in a 5 a.m. briefing [Translation: Typhoon Saola, Severe Tropical Storm Hanna, and another severe tropical storm at the far part of the Pacific Ocean are enhancing the southwest monsoon especially in most parts of Luzon.] In the next three days, Estareja said monsoon rains are expected over the Ilocos Region, Abra, [...]
Marcos to join ASEAN Summit in Indonesia
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. approves the Department of Trade and Industry’s Three-year Food Logistics Action Agenda aimed at revolutionizing the country’s food distribution system, reducing transport and logistics costs, and ensuring food supply chain efficiency. Presidential Communications Office Manila, Philippines — President Marcos is traveling to Jakarta next week to join the 43rd Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) Summit and related summits, where Manila is expected to push for statements on Beijing’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Daniel Espiritu said Marcos would continue to promote a rules-based international order, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), especially in the South China Sea, during the summit set on Sept. 5 to 7. [...]
PH rejects, protests China’s expanded 10-dash line in South China Sea
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippines filed a protest against China’s issuance of the 2023 version of its standard map showing its extended claim in the South China Sea. Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Daniel Espiritu confirmed in a Thursday briefing that Manila filed a diplomatic protest regarding the issue. Beijing released this week its updated standard map showing 10 dashes that form a U shape, claiming nearly the entire South China Sea as part of its territory. The area overlaps with the exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of the Philippines as well as those of Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam, and Indonesia In a statement on Thursday, the DFA said “[t]his latest attempt to legitimize China’s purported sovereignty and jurisdiction over Philippine features and maritime zones has no basis under [...]
Law establishing specialty health centers nationwide signed
This March 8, 2020 photo shows the Manila Center for Infectious Disease Control located on the 10th floor of the Sta. Ana Hospital in Manila. The STAR / Edd Gumban Manila, Philippines — President Marcos has signed into law a measure mandating the establishment of specialty centers in Department of Health (DOH)-run hospitals and in government-owned or controlled corporation (GOCC) hospitals in the country. Signed on Aug. 24, Republic Act (RA) 11959 or the “Regional Specialty Centers Act” aims to ensure accessible and affordable health care services for all Filipinos. Under the law, the DOH is designated to establish specialty centers in its hospitals in every region and in GOCC specialty hospitals, prioritizing cancer care, cardiovascular care, lung care, renal care and kidney transplant, brain and spine care, [...]
P92.49 billion SSS premiums unremitted in 2022
Manila, Philippines — The Commission on Audit (COA) revealed that over P92.49 billion worth of premium collections to the Social Security System (SSS) were not remitted by 466,881 employers from all over the country last year. COA’s audit report indicated that SSS was only able to collect P2.48 billion, or less than three percent, of the P94.97-billion target as of the end of 2022. The COA added that the National Capital Region posted the lowest collection percentage at P383.78 million out of the target of P64.67 billion (0.59 percent), followed by the rest of Luzon at P747.59 million out of P22.33 billion (3.35 percent). The Visayas’ collection percentage was at P305.54 million out of P6.48 billion (4.72 percent) and Mindanao at P405.8 million out of P7.33 billion (7.42 percent). [...]
VP Sara, Viscom launch mobile e-learning hub in Cebu
E-LEARNING HUB. Vice President Sara Duterte delivers her speech during the launching of the mobile e-learning hub project of the Visayas Command and 3rd Civil Relations Group (3CRG) at the DepEd Ecotech Center Pavilion in Sudlon, Lahug in Cebu City on Tuesday (Aug. 29, 2023). The facility, a modified trailer truck with 20-foot container van equipped with 20 laptop computers, printers, Smart TV and internet connections, will be deployed in areas in Cebu province where the soldiers are conducting community support program activities. (Photo courtesy of Viscom PIO) CEBU CITY – The Visayas Command has partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) in rolling out a mobile E-Learning Hub project that will serve learners in far-flung areas where internet and computer access is a challenge, a ranking Army [...]
Marcos OKs 3-year food logistics agenda
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has approved the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) three-year Food Logistics Action Agenda aimed at revolutionizing the country's food distribution system, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said. President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (Malacañang file photo) According to the PCO, Marcos approved the plan during a sectoral meeting in Malacañang with secretaries from different government agencies on Tuesday, Aug. 29. In a statement, the PCO said the creation of the three-year food logistics agenda was one of the directives of the President during the eighth Cabinet meeting in September 20222 to the Departments of Agriculture (DA), Trade and Industry (DTI), Transportation (DOTr), Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to develop a food logistics [...]
PH should strengthen early childhood education – UNICEF
Metro Manila, Philippines— The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Philippines on Tuesday said there is still much work to do to strengthen early childhood education in the country. UNICEF Philippines' deputy representative Behzad Noubary said only 28% of Filipino learners aged three and four attend preschool, and about 78% for kindergarten. "If we could increase that, we can see immediate improvements in terms of the success of students in primary learning," he told CNN Philippines' The Final Word. Citing a UNICEF study, Noubary said preschool education gives Filipino students a better chance of success once they get to primary school. He added that preschool education may also help address the country's learning crisis. "There are some LGUs (local government units) where daycare centers are not available. This is [...]
Three cyclones, including ‘Hanna’, intensify southwest monsoon
Satellite image shows Super Typhoon Goring (Saola) and Severe Tropical Storm Hanna (Haikui) on August 31, 2023 PAGASA Manila, Philippines — Three tropical cyclones are enhancing the southwest monsoon, which will continue to dump rain over the western part of Luzon, the state weather bureau said Thursday morning. Severe Tropical Storm Hanna (international name: Haikui), Super Typhoon Saola (formerly Goring) and Tropical Storm Kirogi are currently strengthening the southwest monsoon (habagat). Saola and Kirogi are outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility. According to PAGASA, the enhanced southwest monsoon will bring occasional to monsoon rain over the western portion of Luzon in the next three days. The agency warned that floods and landslides may occur in areas that are highly vulnerable to these hazards, and in places that have experienced significant [...]
PH strengthens naval ties with US, Japan
VISITING ALLY | A sailor from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force stands guard as JS Izumo docks at Pier 15 in South Harbor, Manila, on Sunday, Aug. 27, 2023. The JS Izumo is a multipurpose and multifunctional destroyer with a full flat deck capable of accommodating an F-35B stealth fighter jet. (Photo by GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE / Philippine Daily Inquirer) Manila, Philippines — The Philippines is looking to strengthen cooperation between its naval fleet and its counterparts in the United States and Japan through activities such as joint training and capability development that will be “mutually beneficial” to the three forces, as Manila and its partners reinforce their alliance amid heightened tensions with China. US Navy 7th Fleet commander Vice Adm. Karl Thomas and Japan Self-Defense Fleet commander [...]
Brawner says joint exercises with China looks ‘murky’
(File photo of AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner) Metro Manila, Philippines — The chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines said China’s proposed joint military exercises and patrols with the Philippines are unlikely. The proposed joint military exercises with the Philippines was pitched in July. However, details are still indefinite. Gen. Romeo Brawner said the country’s memorandum of agreement on defense cooperation has been existing since 2004. Since then, the military has been sending over Filipino officers and enlisted personnel for schooling in China. Although given China’s aggression in the South China Sea, the government has halted sending over these officers. Brawner also said China should stop what he called coercive and dangerous tactics in the disputed waters when the military are resupplying their stations in islands and occupied [...]
Philippines most at risk from rising food, power prices
The index, covering 110 countries, showed that 50 of the most affected by food price surges are emerging market economies. Philstar.com / Irra Lising Among emerging Asian economies Manila, Philippines — The Philippines has emerged as the most vulnerable from rising food and energy prices among countries in emerging Asia, according to the Nomura Food Vulnerability Index (NFVI). The index, covering 110 countries, showed that 50 of the most affected by food price surges are emerging market economies. “A scatter plot of our NFVI scores against net oil imports of each country highlights that the most vulnerable to surging food and oil prices are small frontier economies; the larger ones include the Philippines and Pakistan,” Nomura said in its latest economic insights. Nomura assumed a 20-percent rise in [...]
Goring weakens; potential typhoon to enter Philippines
At a press briefing, PAGASA weather specialist Veronica Torres said the eye of Typhoon Goring was located at 245 kilometers (km) east northeast of Casiguran, Aurora with maximum sustained winds of 155 km per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 190 kph as it is moving north northeastward at 15 kph. PAGASA Manila, Philippines — Goring has weakened into a typhoon and is expected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility on Thursday while an approaching severe tropical storm is expected to enter PAR on Wednesday evening or Thursday morning, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said yesterday. At a press briefing, PAGASA weather specialist Veronica Torres said the eye of Typhoon Goring was located at 245 kilometers (km) east northeast of [...]
Another increase in oil prices set this week
Metro Manila, Philippines— Pump prices will again go up starting Tuesday, several oil companies said Monday. In separate advisories, Seaoil, Jetti, Petron and Cleanfuel said the per liter cost of diesel will increase by 70 centavos while gasoline will rise by 30 centavos per liter. PTT, Phoenix, Petro Gazz, Flying V and Caltex also said they will implement the same oil price adjustments. The cost of kerosene will climb by 80 centavos per liter in fuel stations of Seaoil, Flying V and Caltex.
22.7m students troop back to school
On the eve of the school year’s opening today, close to 22.7 million public school students have enrolled, still short of the initial target of the Department of Education’s (DepEd’s) target of 28.8 million. The department, however, expects the number of enrollees to rise during the first week of classes. “We are accepting late enrollees since it is usual that many students enroll on the first day of classes and the days that follow,” said DepEd Undersecretary Michael Poa. As students prepare for their second year of face-to-face classes after the COVID-19 pandemic, they are stepping into classrooms devoid of decorations and “clutter,” as schools comply with an order issued by Vice President Sara Duterte, who concurrently serves as DepEd secretary. This academic year marks the final phase of [...]
Hundreds flee floods as super typhoon ‘Goring’ brushes past Philippines
Super Typhoon Goring has caused massive flooding in the town of Baggao in Cagayan Province. Baggao PS via Cagayan PIO Facebook Manila, Philippines — Hundreds of people fled their homes as floods unleashed by Super Typhoon Goring (international name: Saola) swept through mainly rural villages in the northeastern Philippines, rescue officials said Sunday. Saola brushed past the northeast section of the main island of Luzon overnight Saturday, bringing its 185-kilometre-per-hour (115-mile-per-hour) central winds within 125 kilometres of Tuguegarao, a city of about 160,000 people. "The winds were not too strong but the rains were heavy last night," Ruelie Rapsing, a rescue official in Cagayan province, told AFP by telephone from Tuguegarao. The provincial government's press office released photos on its Facebook page of knee-deep floodwaters swamping homes in the municipality [...]
Super Typhoon ‘Goring’ keeps strength, begins loop over PH Sea
Metro Manila, Philippines — Super Typhoon Goring maintains its strength as it begins its loop northeastward over the Philippine Sea, the state weather bureau said Sunday. In its 2 p.m. bulletin, The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the storm will turn northeastward and northward on Monday before it shifts northwestward on Tuesday. The towns of Divilacan, Palanan, Dinapigue, San Mariano and Ilagan City in Isabela remain under Signal No. 3. Signal No. 2 is up over the eastern portion of mainland Cagayan, the northern and central portion of Isabela, the extreme northern portion of Aurora and the eastern portion of Quirino. Meanwhile, Batanes, the rest of Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, the rest of Aurora, the rest of Quirino, the rest of Isabela, Apayao, Nueva Vizcaya, Ifugao, [...]
PH, Australia to hold joint patrols in WPS
As US lawmakers vow military support under MDT The Philippines and Australia will “soon” hold joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea where tensions have been high over increased Chinese incursions in the area. “We are working closely together. Doing joint sails is something that we’ve been keen to pursue now for some time. The two defense forces have been working together to make that happen and to do that in the most effective way,” Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense chief Richard Marles said. “We’re really pleased with the progress of the discussions. We expect the first of those joint patrols to happen in the not too distant future,” Marles added. US Congress’ commitment As this developed, visiting US lawmakers committed American military action to defend the Philippines [...]
Signal No. 1 up in four areas as Goring continues to intensify
Photo from PAGASA Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 remains hoisted over four areas as Tropical Storm Goring continued to intensify on Friday, state weather bureau PAGASA said. In its 11 a.m. bulletin, PAGASA said TCWS No. 1 is raised over the following areas: Batanes the eastern portion of Babuyan Islands (Babuyan Island, Camiguin Island) the eastern portion of mainland Cagayan (Santa Ana, Gonzaga, Lal-Lo, Gattaran, Baggao, Peñablanca, Santa Teresita, Buguey, Camalaniugan, Aparri) the eastern portion of Isabela (Maconacon, Divilacan, Palanan, Dinapigue, San Mariano, San Pablo, Cabagan, Tumauini, Ilagan City) Goring was located 225 kilometers east southeast of Basco, Batanes or 270 km east of Calayan, Cagayan packing a maximum sustained winds of 85 km per hour and gustiness of up to 105 km/h. It was [...]
PH, Australia militaries hold first amphibious assault exercise in Zambales
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Australian Defence Force (ADF) conducted its very first combined amphibious assault exercise in San Antonio, Zambales on Friday, August 25, highlighting the evolving defense cooperation between the two countries amid security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel hold a combined amphibious assault exercise off the coast of San Antonio, Zambales on August 25, 2023 as part of Exercise Alon 2023. (Screenshot courtesy of PTV-4) The exercise witnessed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. formed part of the Exercise Alon 2023 under the Indo-Pacific Endeavour activity for 2023 (IPE23), which is Australia’s flagship international engagement activity in the Southeast Asian and Indian Ocean region. “This mission is just a manifestation of where we [...]
P505m in smuggled rice seized at Bulacan depots
SMUGGLED RICE UNCOVERED. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez (center), along with other lawmakers, joins the fact-finding mission of the Bureau of Customs in inspecting several rice warehouses in Bulacan as part of the exercise of the oversight powers of Congress. The inspection was conducted amid allegations that hoarding of rice supply is driving up the price of the staple grain. Ver Noveno Government agents seized smuggled rice worth P505 million on Thursday in an operation joined by lawmakers led by House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio at three warehouses in Bulacan. The warehouses, owned and operated by Great Harvest Rice Mill Warehouse, San Pedro Warehouse, and FS Rice Mill Warehouse are located inside the Intercity Industrial Complex in San Juan, Balagtas in Bulacan, were [...]
Pandemic, surging inflation push 67.8 million Asians into poverty
The increased cost-of-living crisis sparked by surging inflation last year, combined with the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, is continuing to push people in Asia and the Pacific into extreme poverty, the Asian Development Bank said in a report Thursday. It said 155.2 million people in developing Asia and the Pacific, or 3.9 percent of the region’s population, lived in extreme poverty as of 2022, based on Key Indicators for Asia and the Pacific 2023. This was 67.8 million greater than it would have been without the pandemic and the increased cost of living crisis, according to the report. Extreme poverty is defined as living on less than $2.15 a day, based on 2017 prices and adjusted for purchasing power and inflation. “Asia and the Pacific is steadily [...]
PH’s military drills with US, Australia ‘extremely important’ amid region’s volatile conditions – Marcos
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippine military's training with major countries is “extremely important,” as the region’s security conditions remain volatile. Marcos was in Zambales on Friday morning to witness the amphibious assault exercise between the Philippines, Australia, and the US, where about 2,000 personnel participated. He said the joint training exercises are part of his administration’s efforts to strengthen the country’s military capability and create closer cooperation with neighbors around the region. “I think it’s an important aspect of how we prepare for any eventuality considering that there have been so many events that attest to the volatility of the region,” he said. “This strategic cooperation between countries in the region is extremely important,” Marcos added. The US and Australia have been supporting the [...]
Philippines, US, Australia troops to hold amphibious drills in Zambales
The Philippines, United States and Australia are set to conduct an amphibious landing military exercise on Friday in a simulation of retaking an island in Zambales, a Philippine Marines official said. The Philippines, United States and Australia are set to conduct an amphibious landing military exercise on Friday in a simulation of retaking an island in Zambales, a Philippine Marines official said. (Our main event is the amphibious landing. This is a simulation of island retaking involving landing forces from the Australian Defense Force, US Marines, and Philippine Marines.) The activity would also include a mock opposing force to make the simulation more realistic, according to Larida. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Australia’s Defense Minister Richard Marles are expected to personally witness the drill, Larida said. Considering that [...]
Senator pushes for increased PCG funds to enhance West Philippine Sea defense
The Philippine Coast Guard held a send-off ceremony for BRP Cabra and BRP Sindangan, which will patrol the West Philippine Sea and Sulu Sea. PCG / Released Manila, Philippines — Increasing hostilities from Chinese vessels and its threats to the safety of Philippine Coast Guard necessitate greater funding for their intelligence operations, Sen. Risa Hontiveros said. Hontiveros said that beefing up the PCG’s intelligence funds — discreet funds an agency uses to gather information — would help it better perform its mandate in patrolling the West Philippine Sea. She said this in her privilege speech on Senate Resolution 744, a recently filed resolution that calls for a Senate inquiry into measures that would strengthen the PCG and improve its role in protecting the country's maritime zones. Addressing her [...]
NSC: Proposed funding for building structures on Ayungin merits Congress discussion
Metro Manila, Philippines— The National Security Council (NSC) on Thursday said lawmakers should consider allocating funds for the establishment of a permanent structure on Ayungin Shoal under the 2024 budget. “That's a proposal that merits serious consideration from Congress. As we can see, the BRP Sierra Madre is not in a good state, it’s rusting and it’s dilapidated, and it really needs improvement,” NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya told CNN Philippines’ The Source. BRP Sierra Madre, a US Navy ship used during World War II, has been on the Ayungin Shoal since 1999. It was intentionally grounded there to serve as a military outpost in the contested waters. In an earlier interview with CNN Philippines, Sen. Francis Escudero said he would look into allocating ₱100 million for the [...]
‘Goring’ intensifies into tropical storm
Satellite image shows Tropical Storm Goring on July 24, 2023 RAMBB Manila, Philippines — Cyclone Goring intensified into a tropical storm Tuesday afternoon while moving over the Philippine Sea, state weather bureau PAGASA said. Goring was last spotted 265 kilometers east of Basco in Batanes, with peak winds of 75 kph near the center and gusts of up to 90 kph. It was moving northwest at 10 kph. Goring may become a severe tropical storm in the next 36 hours, and may reach typhoon category by Saturday. PAGASA said “the inherent volatility of attaining the super typhoon category remains a possibility.” What to expect According to PAGASA, Goring is “less likely” to bring heavy rainfall over the country in the next three days. But it noted that any [...]
Anti-trafficking council OKs revised guidelines for overseas Filipino travelers
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) has approved the revised guidelines for international-bound Filipino travelers. In a statement on Tuesday, the IACAT said the revision aimed to "combat the grave menace of human trafficking." Other than the usual travel requirements, the revised guidelines require self-funded travelers to present additional documents such as confirmed return or roundtrip ticket, proof of hotel booking or accommodation, financial capacity or source of income, and proof of employment. For overseas travels sponsored by a relative or non-relative, an individual is required to secure an affidavit of support and guarantee notarized by a Philippine Embassy, Consulate, or Honorary Consulate. Meanwhile, OFWs deployed for the first time also need to secure an OFW clearance issued by the Department of Migrant Workers as [...]
Manila hosts 3-day ASEAN-China meeting on SCS Code of Conduct
Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian Members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China have resumed discussions on the long-planned Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea on Tuesday. Manila is hosting the three-day dialog that gathers diplomats from the region, including those from five out of six claimant counties in the SCS, namely China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. As this developed, Chinese Ambassador to Manila Huang Xilian welcomed the appointment of former Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. as special envoy to China. Locsin’s appointment came on the heels of heightened tensions between Manila and Beijing after a China Coast Guard ship fired a water cannon against Philippine Coast Guard vessels en route to Ayungin Shoal for a resupply mission. Huang likewise [...]
DA execs: P20/kilo rice not achievable in 2 years
A vendor at Commonwealth Public Market in Quezon City sells rice for P38 per kilo on August 22, 2023. STAR / Sheila Crisostomo Manila, Philippines — Officials of the Department of Agriculture (DA) admitted yesterday that the campaign promise of President Marcos to bring down the price of rice to P20 per kilo is unlikely to see fulfillment in the next two years. “Next two years? Baka mahirap po (I think it will be difficult),” DA Undersecretary for policy, planning and regulations Mercedita Sombilla said in response to questioning from Kabataan party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel during yesterday’s hearing of the House committee on appropriations on the DA’s proposed budget of P167.5 billion in 2024. Marcos, concurrently DA chief, did not attend the hearing. For his part, Albay Rep. [...]
PH completes resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines — Authorities on Tuesday confirmed that the latest resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre was "successfully conducted." "Notwithstanding attempts by China Coast Guard (CCG) and the Chinese Maritime Militia vessels to block, harass, and interfere with the supply mission, the Philippine supply ships Unaizah May 1 and Unaizah May 2, escorted by PCG (Philippine Coast Guard) vessels BRP Cabra and BRP Sindangan, successfully completed their RoRe (Rotation and Resupply mission)," the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) said in a statement. A CCG ship on Aug. 5 blocked and fired a water cannon at Philippine Coast Guard vessels escorting boats chartered by the AFP to deliver food and supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre. This resulted in one Philippine vessel [...]
AFP not informed of US-Japan-Australia South China Sea drills
AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said they have yet to be officially informed of the naval drill, which would be held in waters claimed by China near the West Philippine Sea. AFP Manila, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday denied reports that it has declined to join a trilateral naval drill in the South China Sea (SCS) involving United States, Japanese and Australian forces. AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said they have yet to be officially informed of the naval drill, which would be held in waters claimed by China near the West Philippine Sea. He said the AFP is verifying relevant information with the US, Japan and Australia. “If there’s such an activity, then we’re not informed. It’s not true that [...]
Jeepneys, taxis ask for fare hike as oil prices rise
Jeepney operators will ask the government for a one-peso increase in minimum fares today amid spiraling fuel prices and rising inflation. The petition, Pasang Masda group president Roberto Martin explained in a television interview, would ask for a provisional increase of more than P1 for the first four kilometers and a scaled increase for every succeeding kilometer. Traditional jeepneys charge a minimum P9 fare while modern or e-jeepneys charge P11 minimum. They were briefly at P12 and P14 minimum, respectively, until the government ordered the fares rolled back in April. “To our commuters, we ask for your understanding. We hope you empathize with the plight of our members in the transport sector,” Martin said. Meanwhile, taxi operators again petitioned the government to raise the flag-down rate from P40 to [...]
As rice prices soar, senators dare NFA: Prove your worth
BUYER’S CHOICE | Prices of assorted varieties of rice are displayed at Trabajo Market in Sampaloc, Manila, in this photo taken on Aug. 10, 2023, to guide consumers on a tight budget. Earlier, the Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc. warned that the price of the staple would increase until the mid-September harvest amid the continued hike in the buying price of palay. (File photo by NIÑO JESUS ORBETA / Philippine Daily Inquirer) Manila, Philippines — As a farmers’ group called for the abolition of the National Food Authority (NFA) over its supposed preference for rice imports, two senators on Monday challenged the agency to prove its worth by helping farmers and buying their produce at higher prices. “If the NFA is filling up its buffer [...]
Trilateral naval drills in SCS set
But PH ‘cancels’ participation in joint exercises with US, Australia, Japan Japan, the United States and Australia are set to conduct naval drills in the South China Sea on Wednesday. Kyodo News, citing multiple sources, said the trilateral exercise comes on the heels of increased tensions between Beijing and Manila after a China coast guard vessel fired a water cannon at a Philippine military-chartered boat near Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea earlier this month. The Japanese news agency said the Philippines, which will host the vessels from the three countries before the naval exercises, “cancelled” its participation. “The Philippine forces have canceled their participation in the joint drill since the three other nations’ aircraft are too large to land on the decks of Philippine warships, according to [...]
Pimentel hits Kalayaan officials’ declaration of Chinese envoy as ‘persona non grata’
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III (MANILA BULLETIN) Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III doesn't agree with the municipal government of Kalayaan's move of declaring Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian a "persona non grata". In a statement Monday, Aug. 21, Pimentel said that such actions by the Sangguniang Bayan of Kalayaan in the province of Palawan in Western part of the country should be "avoided as much as possible". "The ambassador of a foreign country to the Philippines is the representative of that country to our country. We should go slow in declaring foreign ambassadors as personas non grata. Avoid this as much as possible," said the veteran legislator from Mindanao. "All grievances related to ambassadors and foreign relations must be coursed through our [...]
Another price hike: Gasoline by P1.10, diesel by P0.20
In separate advisories yesterday, oil companies said prices would rise by P1.10 per liter for gasoline, P0.20 per liter for diesel and P0.70 per liter for Philstar.com / Irra Lising Manila, Philippines — The cost of petroleum products continues to go up, with oil firms implementing another round of pump price increases today. In separate advisories yesterday, oil companies said prices would rise by P1.10 per liter for gasoline, P0.20 per liter for diesel and P0.70 per liter for kerosene. These extend the price increases for diesel and kerosene to a seventh consecutive week, and gasoline to a sixth straight week. The upward adjustments will take effect at 6 a.m. today for most companies, except for Caltex which implemented the price movements at 12:01 a.m. and Cleanfuel which [...]
Biden to ramp up three-way Japan, S.Korea ties in sign to China
Washington, United States -- US President Joe Biden on Friday will announce new security cooperation at a first-of-a-kind three-way summit with the leaders of Japan and South Korea, hoping to send a message of strength to China which has already made clear its displeasure. The summit at the Camp David presidential retreat in the mountains west of Washington would have been unimaginable until recently, with the two treaty-bound US allies at loggerheads for decades over the legacy of Japan's harsh 1910-1945 occupation of the Korean peninsula. But South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, taking political risks at home, has turned the page by resolving a dispute over wartime forced labor, instead calling Japan a partner at a time of high tensions with both China and North Korea. Biden, Yoon [...]
Marcos admin urged to pair media literacy project with concrete solutions to fight political disinformation
Presidential aspirant Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. greets crowds at a UniTeam campaign rally in Zambales in March 2022. UniTeam / Released Manila, Philippines — The government’s highly publicized media literacy campaign should be paired with concrete safeguards to prevent politicians from capitalizing on the spread of disinformation, several groups of media literacy advocates and researchers said. In a joint statement, nine non-government organizations advocating for media and information literacy, along with several disinformation researchers, pointed out that politicians and platforms continue to reap financial and political gains from mis- and disinformation. The groups called on the Marcos administration to go beyond its media literacy project with social media platforms and pursue “deeper structural solutions, such as promoting transparency and accountability in campaign finance and political advertising.” “Likewise, independent audits [...]
Rice supply shrinks locally, PSA reports
There was less rice available in the country at the beginning of April, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported. Based on the PSA’s latest report, the rice inventory was 1.843 million metric tons at the beginning of that month, a decrease of 26.5 percent compared to 2.506 million metric tons in the same period last year. Out of the total inventory, households had 1.015 million metric tons of rice, which accounted for 55.1 percent. This is a decline of 26 percent from 1.373 million metric tons last year. Commercial warehouses stored about 728,730 metric tons of rice, which is a decrease of 26.9 percent from 997,420 metric tons last year. This represents 39.5 percent of the overall inventory. The National Food Authority (NFA) depositories held 99,030 metric tons of [...]
Nearly ₱7M, 24,000 SIM seized in POGO hub
Metro Manila, Philippines — Authorities on Thursday seized several items, including almost ₱7 million in cash, in a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Pasay City that was raided early this month. Also confiscated were 24,000 pre-registered SIM, over 9,000 cellphones, passports, credit cards, and documents like contracts from 32 vaults in SA Rivendell Gaming Corporation, an alleged scam hub fronting as a POGO. Winston John Romero Casio, senior technical adviser and liaison officer of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), said most of the SIM were not yet opened. He added that they already reached out to the telecommunication firm involved, which was also clueless on how the SIM were pre-registered. Hundreds of workers were found operating illegal activities such as love scams, illegal gambling, and cryptocurrency [...]
New military outpost eyed to guard Philippine Rise
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro (File photo from the Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau) Manila, Philippines — Plans are afoot in Isabela province to build a naval outpost in the coastal town of Divilacan to keep watch over Philippine (Benham) Rise, an undersea region in the country’s eastern seaboard that is believed to contain huge natural gas deposits, according to Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. The defense chief said Isabela Gov. Rodolfo Albano III was keen to build such a facility for “joint use” with the United States in his province, which hosts one of four new sites under Manila’s Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) with Washington. “[Albano] is here and he wants to post a stronger military presence not just inside Isabela but along the coastline, in [...]
Blacklisting Chinese infra contractors may cause project delays – Diokno
Metro Manila, Philippines – Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno has warned the Senate that severing ties with Chinese contractors may cause delays in infrastructure projects in the wake of Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri's call to blacklist Chinese contractors. “Potential impact on the economy for possible delays in the projects that will be affected and of course we have to shift to the financing for those projects that have been requested from China,” Diokno said Wednesday. According to Diokno, among those that will be affected are projects funded by Official Development Assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the World Bank. “When it’s ADB project, any member country can compete in the bidding of the project," he said. "If the Chinese contractor wins, we cannot do [...]
PBBM: Help ready for Maui Pinoys
The government is ready to provide assistance to Filipinos affected by the deadly wildfires that struck the island of Maui in Hawaii, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Tuesday night. Mr. Marcos issued the statement on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, as he assured the public that he is closely monitoring the condition of Filipinos residing in Hawaii. About 388,000 individuals in Hawaii identify themselves as Filipino or part-Filipino, according to the 2020 US state census. Around 200,000 of the 388,000 have parents who are both Filipinos but only 16 percent are Philippine passport holders. “With the help of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Migrant Workers, we are trying to get the number of Filipinos affected by the wildfires in Hawaii),” he said. Mr. [...]
Singapore arrests 10 foreigners, seizes S$1 bln assets in money laundering probe
A view of the skyline in Singapore, January 27, 2023. REUTERS/Caroline Chia/File Photo Acquire Licensing Rights SINGAPORE- Singapore police have arrested 10 foreigners for alleged money laundering and forgery offences, in a case involving about S$1 billion ($737 million) of cash, properties, luxury cars and other assets. The police conducted simultaneous raids on Tuesday across the city-state to arrest the suspects, their statement said on Wednesday. Prohibition of disposal orders were issued against 94 properties and 50 vehicles, with a total estimated value of more than S$815 million. Other seizures included bank accounts, cash, luxury bags, jewellery, watches, electronic devices and some documents with information on virtual assets. The foreigners were aged between 31 and 44, and their nationalities include Chinese, Turkish, Cypriot, Cambodian and Ni-Vanuatu, Singapore police said. [...]
Locsin tapped as China envoy
Palace: Move to boost bilateral ties President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed former Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin as special envoy to Beijing, days after the Chinese embassy in Manila called on the Philippines to meet it halfway over maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea. “[Ambassador Locsin’s appointment] is to boost bilateral relations between the two countries,” Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil said, adding that Locsin will serve as concurrent Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Ambassador Teodoro Locsin Jr. Chinese Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Zhou Zhiyong earlier said Beijing and Manila are neighbors that “can’t move away from one another,” thus disputes between both countries should be managed through dialogue and consultations. “China has repeatedly expressed its willingness to resolve differences with the Philippines through [...]
Office of the President travel expenses up by 995 percent
President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. and first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos depart from the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City for his state visit to China on January 3, 2023. STAR / KJ Rosales Manila, Philippines — Malacañang yesterday justified President Marcos’ travels, saying they allowed him to check on government projects and encourage businesses to invest in the Philippines. The Palace statement was issued after the Commission on Audit (COA)’s latest report showed the Office of the President (OP) incurred P403.088 million in travel expenses in 2022, up by a whopping 995.6 percent or P366.296 million from P36.792-million total travel expenses in 2021. Presidential Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said with the opening of the economy and the lifting of mobility restrictions last year, Marcos has begun going around the [...]
DSWD encourages senior citizens to register in NCSC database
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Wednesday, Aug. 16 urged those 60 years of age and older to register in the database of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) in support of the ongoing nationwide registration for all Filipino seniors. The NCSC is currently conducting a nationwide registration of all senior citizens using an improved data form, adding some vital features to include the senior’s source of income, if applicable, skill set, and health profile. The form can be accessed through NCSC’s official website. DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Romel Lopez said the nationwide database of senior citizens will be a great baseline for policy formulation and program development for the protection and promotion of the older person sector. “The national database of the senior citizens, [...]
Escudero seeks ₱100M for Ayungin Shoal structure
Metro Manila, Philippines — Senator Francis Escudero on Tuesday said the Philippines should now build its own structure on Ayungin Shoal as China continues to harass Philippine vessels and fishermen. "During the budget deliberations, I will propose the inclusion in the budget of an item to build a structure already on that island," Escudero told CNN Philippines' The Source. The senator said he will push for ₱100 million for the structure, which can include accommodation for Filipino troops stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre – a World War II-era ship intentionally grounded on Ayungin Shoal in 1999 to serve as the country's outpost in the West Philippine Sea. Escudero pointed out that China was the first to build structures in the contested area. "Kami naman magpapagawa sa sinasabi naming [...]
P10-M grant to help expand dragon fruit plantation in Guimaras
ILOILO CITY – The Department of Agriculture’s (DA) High-Value Crops Development Program will help the province of Guimaras expand its dragon fruit plantation by 15 hectares to 20 hectares through a PHP10 million grant. “It’s part of our intervention from the high-value crops. It’s for the expansion,” Jonifer Frades, DA high-value crops regional coordinator, said in an interview on Tuesday. Frades said they would give inputs, including planting materials, fertilizers, and capability building or training to members of the Guimaras Dragon Fruit Farmers Association. He said the grant is part of their pipeline projects next year, and in January they will start with the selection and validation of areas where the crop could be planted. “Currently, they are only at 14 hectares based on the PSA [...]
Palawan prov’l execs to plant coconut trees on Kalayaan Island
PRECIOUS REAL ESTATE. Several Palawan provincial board members are set to plant coconut trees on Kalayaan Island on Aug. 22, 2023. The gesture is meant to highlight and assert the Philippines' territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea. (Photo courtesy of the Western Command) Puerto Princese, Palawan – A Palawan provincial board member on Tuesday announced that he and some colleagues are scheduled to travel to the West Philippine Sea to join the military and coast guard in planting coconut trees on Pag-asa Island, the main seat of government of Kalayaan town. Board Member Aris Arzaga stated that the trip to Pag-asa Island on Aug. 22 is for a symbolic coconut planting [...]
DFA chief says PH-China still committed to peaceful resolution
Metro Manila, Philippines— Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said he is "hesitant" to answer on statements of "act of war" in the recent incident in the West Philippine Sea, stressing that Manila is still committed to China to resolve disputes peacefully. In a budget briefing of the House of Representatives for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday, Kabataan Rep. Raoul Manuel asked the secretary if it was “wise” that the Philippines is on a “war footing” after the recent incursion in the contested waters. Manalo answered that the country is “not on a war footing.” “I hesitate to answer what would be an act of war,” he said when further pressed on the department’s perspective on the matter. “The general understanding among all countries is to try [...]
OVP to aid DepEd in preparing for school opening
The Office of the Vice President (OVP) has teamed up with the Department of Education (DepEd) for the week-long nationwide school maintenance program to prepare for the official start of classes on August 29. The agencies, both headed by Vice President Sara Duterte, have partnered for the Brigada Eskwela 2023, which will be conducted from August 14 to 19. The OVP said its ten satellite offices in Dagupan, Isabela, Region 5, Cebu, Bacolod, Tacloban, Davao, Surigao, Zamboanga, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will participate in the activity. On Monday, August 14, the OVP is set to assist in the maintenance of East Central Integrated School in Dagupan; Cauayan South Central School in Isabela; Gogon Central Elementary School in Legazpi; Labagon Elementary School in Cebu; St. [...]
Southwest Monsoon to bring rain showers over most parts of the country
The Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) is affecting Southern Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao on Monday and will bring rain showers over several areas, PAGASA said in its weather forecast. The Bicol Region, Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Caraga, and Palawan will have cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms due to the monsoon. Flooding or landslides may occur due to moderate to at times heavy rains. Metro Manila and the rest of the country may expect partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms due to the monsoon and localized thunderstorms. During severe thunderstorms, flash floods or landslides may possibly occur. Coastal waters will be moderate to rough in the seaboards of Luzon, and slight to moderate in Visayas and Mindanao. Sunrise was at 5:42 a.m. while sunset [...]
High-level unrest, eruption in Mayon likely—Phivolcs
Mayon Volcano in Albay is currently in a relatively high level of unrest and hazardous eruption within weeks or even days could still be possible, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). In the past 24-hour period, a slow effusion of lava from the summit crater of Mayon Volcano continued to feed the established lava flows on the Bonga (southeastern), Mi-isi (south), and Basud (eastern) gullies, Phivolcs also said. The lava flows maintained advances to approximately 3.4 kilometers, 2.8 kilometers, and 1.1 kilometers from the crater. Rockfall and pyroclastic density currents or PDCs generated by collapses of the lava flow margins as well as of the summit dome deposited debris still within four kilometers of the crater. The Mayon Volcano Network recorded a total of 221 [...]
NFA warehouses tapped for distribution of smuggled sugar
Rex Estoperez, DA assistant secretary and deputy spokesperson, said in an interview that a memorandum of agreement was already signed by both agencies, noting that the NFA has warehousing and logistics capabilities as well as branches nationwide. STAR / File Manila, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) will tap the warehouses of the National Food Authority (NFA) in the distribution of the 4,000 metric tons or 80,000 bags of smuggled sugar in Kadiwa stores nationwide. Rex Estoperez, DA assistant secretary and deputy spokesperson, said in an interview that a memorandum of agreement was already signed by both agencies, noting that the NFA has warehousing and logistics capabilities as well as branches nationwide. The DA and Bureau of Customs have signed a separate MOA for the formal turnover [...]
Marcos OKs 5-yr. national security policy
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved a fresh five-year national policy which his administration said would help address security challenges by aligning all related strategies. Executive Order (EO) No. 37, signed by Marcos on Thursday and released on Saturday, states that the National Security Policy (NSP) 2023-2028 would “provide guidance and a comprehensive approach to improving security sector governance.” According to the National Security Council, it contains the statement of principles that set the current administration’s policy goals and objectives to protect national interests, including sovereignty and territorial integrity. The president directed all national government agencies and instrumentalities, including local government units, to adopt the NSP in formulating and implementing their security-related programs. “There is a need to harmonize the national security efforts of the Government [...]
Only 30.5 percent of national budget utilized – DBM
Stock photo of a peso money bill. Philstar / Jovannie Lambayan DICT, DMW lowest spenders MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) were the lowest spenders in 2023. The information surfaced during Thursday’s hearing on the proposed P5.768-trillion budget for 2024 by the House committee on appropriations attended by the administration’s economic managers. Responding to a question from Bulacan Rep. Salvador Pleyto, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said the average “obligation rate” of the national government as whole was 30.5 percent as of March 31. “Obligation rate” pertains to the percentage of the budget already utilized by the government. The data for the second quarter of the year was not yet available as these were only submitted by agencies [...]
‘Diplomacy’ top measure to further assert PH territorial rights – OCTA survey
Metro Manila, Philippines— Most Filipinos believe the Marcos administration should engage in “diplomacy or other peaceful methods” to further assert the country’s territorial rights over the West Philippine Sea, according to an OCTA survey published on Saturday. The study conducted from July 22 to 27 found that 70% of the 1,200 participants want a peaceful resolution in the territorial dispute. Filipinos also opted for other top priority measures, including the use of military action (65%) and modernizing and strengthening the Philippine military’s capability to protect the country’s territory (61%). The non-sponsored survey has a ± 3% error margin at 95% confidence level. The Senate earlier adopted a resolution condemning China’s continued harassment of Filipino fisherfolk and persistent incursions in the West Philippine Sea. Last Aug. 5, a China Coast [...]
Habagat to bring scattered rain over most of the country
The southwest monsoon or Habagat will bring cloudy skies with scattered rain showers over the country on Saturday, PAGASA reported. The Visayas, Mindanao, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, Masbate, and the northern portion of Palawan will have cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms due to the southwest monsoon. Flooding or landslides could occur in these areas due to moderate to at times heavy rains. Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms due to the southwest monsoon and localized thunderstorms with the possibility of flash floods or landslides occurring during severe thunderstorms. The wind speed forecast for Luzon is moderate to strong moving in the southwest to west direction while coastal waters will be [...]
Pag-asa fishermen nix plan to recruit them into militia
Fishermen on Pag-asa Island on Friday said they opposed a military plan to train them to become part of a reserve force in the face of Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). In an interview over radio dzBB, Larry Hugo, the president of the Pag-asa Island Fisherfolk Association which operates about 36 fishing boats, said they would prefer to simply report any untoward incident in the area. “That would be difficult for us fishermen,” he said of the military plan in Filipino, adding that their group of 36 boats would not agree to carry firearms. On Thursday, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said they are considering putting up a maritime militia in the West Philippine Sea to strengthen their presence in [...]
China says no point in showing proof of Ayungin Shoal deal if Marcos already rescinded it
Metro Manila, Philippines— China has responded to the statement of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that there was no agreement between Manila and Beijing to remove the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal. On Wednesday, the President even went as far saying that even if there was an agreement, he was rescinding it. CNN Philippines spoke to some diplomatic sources from China and asked if they are willing to show proof of the said promise. “What’s the point [of us doing] that if any agreement will be rescinded,” a diplomatic source said. China maintained that the Philippine government committed to remove the World War II-era ship from Ayungin Shoal. “Over this matter, China had repeatedly made representations to the Philippines and renewed the same demand,” according to a white position paper [...]
Marcos seeks PH-Vietnam maritime deal
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the planned Philippine-Vietnam maritime pact will be “a very big step” for the two countries amid woes in the South China Sea. In a statement, Malacañang said outgoing Vietnam Ambassador to the Philippines Hoang Huy Chung paid a farewell call on Marcos on Thursday, during which they discussed the signing of the maritime agreement. “Now that we are going to start discussions on the agreement that we have between the Philippines and Vietnam, I think it is a very, very important – it will be a very, very important part of our relationship and it will bring an element of stability to the problems that we are seeing now in the South China Sea,” the president said. The realization of the [...]
‘Water cannons on Philippine Navy ship an act of war’
Teams from the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine National Police Maritime Group intercept a coast guard vessel used as a mock illegal vessel transporting drugs during an in-ter-agency exercise dubbed ‘Alalayan’ (provide support) in Manila Bay yesterday. The exercise, witnessed by representatives from US and European embassies, was held to test protocols and demonstrate capability in identifying maritime threats within the area of responsibility. Edd Gumban Manila, Philippines — Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner made this clear yesterday as the military prepares to resume deploying AFP ships to escort vessels carrying provisions for a Marine outpost in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal. A resupply mission on Aug. 5 was cut short after the CCG hosed down one of the civilian supply ships. One of [...]
PBBM to Galido: Transform Army into world-class force
NEW PH ARMY CHIEF. Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (left) shakes hands with newly appointed Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Roy Galido during the change of command rites led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) at the Philippine Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Monday (Aug. 7, 2023). Galido served as commander of the Western Mindanao Command before being named Army chief. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon) Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday assured that his administration is committed to supporting the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), including the Philippine Army (PA). Marcos made this remark as he challenged the new Army chief, Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, to work on building [...]
Senate approves automatic income classification bill on final reading
The Senate has approved on Monday, August 7, the proposed law that seeks to institutionalize the automatic income classification of provinces, cities, and municipalities on third and final reading. Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito principal author and sponsor of Senate Bill No. 2165, thanked his colleagues for supporting the measure. The bill received 22 affirmative votes, two negative votes and no abstentions. Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Sen. Risa Hontiveros both voted against the measure. “Through constructive collaboration and thorough deliberation, we have ensured that this legislation upholds the principles of transparency, accountability, and balanced governance, all for the welfare and safeguarding the interest of our local government units (LGUs),” said Ejercito, chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Government. The House of Representatives has approved [...]
P4 diesel price hike set, kerosene up P2.75 too
The country’s oil firms raised pump prices by P4 per liter for diesel, kerosene by P2.75 per liter and gasoline by P0.50 per liter effective 6 a.m. today (Tuesday) to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market. Department of Energy Oil Industry Management Bureau director Rino Abad said over the weekend diesel increase may hit P4 per liter. Abad said the increase in pump prices was driven by cut in production from Russia and Saudi Arabia. Diesel prices have increased by around P10 per liter for the past five weeks, while gasoline prices have already risen by P5 per liter for the same period. This week’s adjustments came on the heels of after a major pump price hike of P3.50 for diesel, P2.10 for gasoline, and [...]
Sara on intel fund: Education intertwined with national security
Vice President Sara Duterte. STAR / Jesse Bustos Manila, Philippines — Pointing out that the education sector is “intertwined with national security,” Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte yesterday defended the Department of Education (DepEd)’s requested P150-million budget for confidential expenses in 2024. In a chance interview with reporters on the sidelines of the DepEd’s Balik Eskwela 2023 national kick-off ceremony at Tarlac National High School in Tarlac City, Duterte said she is leaving it up to Congress to decide on the DepEd’s request, but maintained that the agency needs a confidential fund to play its role in national security. “Because education is intertwined with national security. Napakahalaga na (It’s very important that) we mold children who are patriotic, children who will love our country and will defend our country,” she [...]
PH summons China envoy
PBBM: DFA fires off note verbale to protest latest WPS mess The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) summoned Beijing’s envoy Monday to protest the use of water cannons and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said. “Our secretary of Foreign Affairs summoned Ambassador Huang (Xilian) today and gave him a note verbale including pictures (and) video about what happened and we are awaiting their reply,” Mr. Marcos told reporters. “The position of China, of course, is they say ‘this is ours so we are defending it’ and we, for our part, are saying ‘no, we own it so we are defending it’. So that becomes a gray area that we are discussing.” ANATOMY OF A BLOCKADE. These screengrabs of videos shared [...]
PH-US finalizing joint patrols in WPS – NSC official
Metro Manila, Philippines — Manila and Washington are ironing out the final details of their joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea which may happen in the next few months, National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said Friday. “Of course meron pang mga logistical issues na nire-resolve. May mga ina-iron out na mga issues but I don't think these are insurmountable,” Malaya said. [Translation: There are logistical issues being resolved. There are some issues being ironed out.] "I would think before the end of the year there will be a formal announcement by the DFA [Department of Foreign Affairs] and relevant authorities. Pero [But] as of now I can't disclose yet," he added. Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel "Babe" Romualdez earlier said the joint patrols were [...]
DOE lauded for pushing energy efficiency, conservation
PE2 president Alexander Ablaza lauded the DOE’s multi-sectoral interventions to accelerate EE&C implementation. STAR / File Manila, Philippines — The Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance Inc. (PE2) has welcomed the Department of Energy (DOE)’s ongoing push for energy efficiency and conservation (EE&C) across sectors. PE2 president Alexander Ablaza lauded the DOE’s multi-sectoral interventions to accelerate EE&C implementation. Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla has cited the effective implementation of EE&C measures as an equally important aspect or pillar of the government’s energy program. He said EE&C’s effective implementation would bring down overall energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce intensity in the production of goods and services. “This is not just simply a gut feel reaction to the high prices in fuel, but the direction that we must take as [...]
Philippines condemns China’s use of water cannons at its vessels
Handout photo from the Philippine Coast Guard showed a Chinese Coast Guard vessel firing a water cannon. Philippine Coast Guard Manila, Philippines — The country’s coast guard and military condemned on Sunday what they called the China Coast Guard’s “dangerous” actions after it fired water cannons at Philippine vessels, the latest of Beijing’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea. “The Philippine Coast Guard strongly condemns the CCG’s dangerous maneuvers and illegal use of water cannons against the PCG vessels escorting the indigenous boats chartered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” the PCG said in a statement. The incident happened Saturday as the Coast Guard escorted boats carrying food, water, fuel and other supplies for military personnel stationed on BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal. The PCG [...]
Rice production zones proposed
Zubiri shares idea with PBBM to boost output, cut imports Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has proposed the idea of “rice production zones” (RPZs) to boost the country’s rice output to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who is concurrent Agriculture chief. In a statement on Saturday, Zubiri said RPZs would also help lessen the country’s dependence on imported rice, as he discussed his proposal with Mr. Marcos during a dinner hosted by the President for senators last Wednesday. The Chief Executive found the senator’s idea “very interesting,” Zubiri added. The immediate goal is to replenish the country’s rice stocks that were lost when two storms hit Regions 1, 2 and 3 over the last fortnight, the Senate leader said. These regions – Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley and Central Luzon – [...]
Highest paid government officials in 2022 — COA
Former Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BS) governor Felipe M. Medalla was the highest paid government official as of Dec. 31, 2022 with P34.17 million in salaries and allowances. Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno was at second place with P28.78 million based on the 2022 Report on Salaries and Allowance (ROSA) released by the Commission on Audit (COA). The report stated that Diokno, who used to hold Medalla’s position, received P41.811 million in 2021. The amount was more than double than what he received in 2020 with P19.79 million. It also stated that the third to the 14th slot in the ROSA were from the BSP. They were Monetary Board members Anita Linda R. Aquino and Victor Bruce J. Tolentino, Deputy Governor Chuchi G. Fonacier, Members Peter B. Favila and [...]
Social infra, agri top 2024 budget
Spending plan handed to Congress President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. is seeking to increase the funding for his administration’s infrastructure and agricultural programs next year, the P5.768-trillion spending plan for 2024 submitted by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to Congress shows. In his budget message, the President said that under the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP), the “Build Better More” program would focus on social infrastructure. “This program, which seeks to continue and expand the Golden Age of Infrastructure of the country, will receive a total of P1.418 trillion. This is equivalent to 5.3 percent of GDP (gross domestic product),” Marcos said. TURNOVER. Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman (left) submits the 2024 National Expenditure Plan to Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, who promised next year’s proposed national budget would [...]
Saudi Arabia extends oil production cut even as US gas prices hit nine-month highs
New York — OPEC leader Saudi Arabia is extending its oil production cut for at least another month in a move that threatens to drive gasoline and other energy prices even higher. An official source from the Saudi Ministry of Energy told state-run news agency SPA Thursday that the kingdom will extend this voluntary cut of one million barrels per day for the month of September. The source told state media the cut could be extended further and the move is aimed at supporting the stability and balance of oil markets. It’s the second time the kingdom has extended the cut, which was first announced in June after a meeting of the alliance between Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and other smaller producers. At almost the same [...]
China relaxes visa, urban residency rules to boost economy
A China Cargo Airlines Boeing 777-F is seen on the tarmac at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in Los Angeles, California, on July 26, 2023. AFP / Daniel Slim Beijing, China — China will allow some foreigners to obtain visas on arrival and rural residents to settle more easily in cities as part of a series of measures aimed at boosting its flagging economy. The relaxations aim to "promote the free movement" of "people, vehicles, information and data", an official from the Ministry of Public Security said Thursday. China's post-Covid recovery has run out of steam in recent months, dragged down by sluggish consumption and a real estate sector in crisis. GDP growth increased by just 0.8 percent from the first to second quarter of the year, [...]
Inflation cools anew, but recent typhoons pose threats
Metro Manila, Philippines — The rate of price increases in the Philippines maintained its downtrend for the sixth straight month in July, but a government official said the onslaught of recent typhoons may affect the slowdown. In a briefing on Friday, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that inflation last month was cooler at 4.7% from the 5.4% recorded in June. July’s inflation rate is within the 4.1% to 4.9% forecast range of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for the month. National Statistician Dennis Mapa said last month’s inflation was the slowest since March 2022’s 4%. The PSA attributed the deceleration to a slower increase in housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels; food and non-alcoholic beverages; and transport. Food inflation likewise showed a drop from 6.7% in June to [...]
SWS: More Filipino families experienced hunger in June 2023 survey
About 10.4% of Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger, that is, being hungry and not having anything to eat at least once in the past three months, according to the latest Social Weather Survey (SWS). The SWS reported that the June 2023 Hunger figure was higher than the 9.8% in March 2023. However, it was lower than the 11.8% in December 2022. The SWS presented the results of a survey conducted from June 28 to July 1, 2023, using face-to-face interviews of 1,500 adults (18 years old and above) nationwide: 600 in Balance Luzon, and 300 each in Metro Manila, the Visayas, and Mindanao. The hunger rate of 10.4% was the sum of 8.3% who experienced Moderate Hunger and 2.1% who experienced Severe Hunger. Moderate Hunger as defined by the [...]
Duterte sees Marcos to discuss meeting with Xi Jinping
Metro Manila, Philippines — Former President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday visited President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to discuss his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Palace said. "They also discussed other issues. The former President likewise gave some good pieces of advice to President Marcos," Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil said. Last July 17, Duterte met with Xi in Beijing. There is no information yet on who extended the invitation to Duterte and in what capacity he represented the Philippines. On July 12, the Philippines commemorated the seventh anniversary of the arbitral ruling that recognized the Philippines’ sovereign rights in areas within its exclusive economic zone and invalidated China's sweeping claims over the South China Sea. More governments around the world also reaffirmed their support for the landmark [...]
US invites new Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi to Washington
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi poses as he meets Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan (not seen) in Ankara, Turkey, on Jul 26, 2023. (Photo: Stringer/Pool via REUTERS) Washington— The United States has formally invited China's newly reappointed foreign minister, Wang Yi, to Washington, the US State Department said on Tuesday (Aug 1), after Wang's predecessor was abruptly removed from his post by Beijing. China reappointed veteran diplomat Wang last week, replacing former rising star Qin Gang, who has not been seen for more than month - a mysterious absence after just seven months in the job that has raised questions about transparency. China's foreign ministry has only said Qin was off work for unspecified health reasons. The invitation to Wang was extended on Monday during a meeting at [...]
Donald Trump indictment: Ex-president charged for efforts to overturn 2020 election
Former US President Donald Trump has been criminally charged over his alleged efforts to overturn his 2020 election defeat. He is accused of four counts, including conspiracy to defraud the US, tampering with a witness and conspiracy against the rights of citizens. The indictment caps an inquiry into events surrounding the riot two-and-a-half years ago at the US Capitol. Mr Trump, 77, who is running for president again, denies wrongdoing. He is already charged in two other cases: with mishandling classified files and over a porn star's hush-money payment. The election investigation has focused on Mr Trump's actions in the two-month period between his loss and the riot in Washington DC, where supporters of his stormed Congress as lawmakers certified Democratic President Joe Biden's victory. The man leading the [...]
Philippine sovereign debt rises further to P14.5 trillion
The country’s sovereign debt stock swelled to a new record high as of end-June as the government boosts borrowing efforts to support its financing requirement, latest data from the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) showed Tuesday. The national government’s total outstanding debt stood at P14.15 trillion, up 0.4% from P14.10 trillion as of end-May. The month-on-month increase was attributed “primarily due to the net issuance of domestic securities,” according to the Treasury. Of the total debt balance, 68.6% were sourced locally while the remaining 31.4% were from foreign sources. Broken down, domestic debt totaled P9.70 trillion, up.2% from as of end-May. “For the month, domestic debt growth amounted to P114.32 billion due to the net issuance of government bonds driven by the national government’s financing requirements,” the BTr said. [...]
5 Agri officials suspended over Kadiwa onions
Ombudsman Samuel Martires has meted out a six-month preventive suspension on several officials of the Department of Agriculture and the Food Terminal Incorporated over an ongoing probe into the purchase of onions for the Kadiwa Food Hub project. In an order, Martires slapped the preventive suspension without pay against DA Assistant Secretary Kristine Evangelista, DA Administrative Officer V Eunice Biblanias, DA OIC-Chief Accountant Lolita Jamela, FTI Vice President for Operations John Gabriel Benedict Trinidad III and FTI Budget Division Head Juanita Lualhati. While Agriculture Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban and FTI President Robert Tan were included in the complaints for grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, and conduct prejudicial, they were not covered by the suspension order. ‘’It appears that the evidence of guilt [against] respondents Evangelista, Biblanias, Jamela, Trinidad [...]
Senate OKs option of taking West Philippine Sea to UN Assembly
This March 22, 2021 aerial photo shows Chinese vessels still present in the Julian Felipe Reef in the West Philippine Sea, well within the Philippine exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. Armed Forces of the Philippines Resolution strongly condemns China intrusions at sea MANILA, Philippines — Crossing party lines, senators adopted yesterday a strongly worded resolution condemning China’s incursions in the West Philippine Sea and providing the executive department with several options to deal with the matter, including raising it before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The senators unanimously adopted Senate Resolution 718, which was largely based on SR 659 of Sen. Risa Hontiveros and SR 707 of Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri. After the chamber moved to adopt SR 718, Zubiri clarified that the original points raised [...]
Government to import 1.3 MMT of rice
Rice dealers display rice and their prices at New York Street, Cubao, Quezon City on April 16, 2023. STAR / Michael Varcas Manila, Philippines — The government is planning to import 1.3 million metric tons (MMT) of rice as President Marcos expressed concerns over the combined impact of Typhoon Egay, the El Niño phenomenon and Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain initiative on the country’s supply of the grain, an official said yesterday. During a Palace briefing, Agriculture Undersecretary Mercedita Sombilla said they have yet to set the dates of importation, but noted there are pending applications for sanitary and phytosanitary certificates. “I think the President will have to discuss or consult the private sector for help. I think we need the help of the private sector in [...]
US Embassy expresses concern over ongoing Manila Bay reclamation projects
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines — The US Embassy on Tuesday expressed concerns over ongoing reclamation projects in Manila Bay, including issues involving the environment. In a statement, US Embassy spokesperson Kanishka Gangopadhyay said they are in constant communication with the Philippine government about how the projects could potentially negatively impact the environment, the resilience of Manila Bay and nearby areas to hazards, as well as commerce. It also raised concerns over the involvement of a Chinese company in the projects. "We are also concerned that the projects have ties to the China Communications Construction Co., which has been added to the US Department of Commerce's Entity List for its role in helping the Chinese military construct and militarize artificial islands in the South China Sea," the embassy said. [...]
Deposit machines bring P12.5M worth of coins back in circulation
A mall shopper uses the coin deposit machine deployed at the SM Store in North Edsa, Quezon City on Sunday, July 30, 2023. (Photo by GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE / Philippine Daily Inquirer) Manila, Philippines — The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) was able to bring back into circulation a total of P12.5 million in various coins through 10 coin deposit machines (CODMs) that were launched in select shopping malls since June 20. The rollout of CODMs throughout the past six weeks started with two units installed at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City and one each at Robinsons Place Ermita (Manila) and Festival Mall in Muntinlupa City. The rest were spread out across SM City San Lazaro, SM City Bicutan, SM City Bacoor, Robinsons Place Galleria Ortigas, [...]
Falcon intensifies further, Habagat to bring rains over western Luzon
Typhoon Falcon (international name: Khanun) intensified further on Monday while moving north northwestward over the Philippine Sea. It continues to enhance the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) which will bring occasional to monsoon rains over the western portion of Luzon in the next three days, PAGASA said in its bulletin. At 4 a.m., the center of Falcon was estimated to be located at 1,070 km east of Extreme Northern Luzon. Falcon has maximum sustained winds of 150 km/h near the center, gustiness of up to 185 km/h, and central pressure of 950 hPa. The typhoon is moving north northwestward at 15 km/h. From its center, strong to typhoon-force winds are extending outwards up to 750 km. Rainfall, winds PAGASA said rainfall will generally be higher in elevated or mountainous areas. "Under [...]
Marcos sees rice prices going up due to El Niño impact
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. admitted growing concerns about the impact of the El Niño phenomenon, particularly on the prices of the country’s staple grain. (Keith Bacongco/File Photo/MANILA BULLETIN The Chief Executive also expressed his worry on the country’s rice supply stock as he starts to consider India as possible import source. “I’m thinking about the national supply of rice,” the President told officials in Tuguegarao City on Saturday, July 29, while there to assess the devastation caused by Typhoon ‘Egay’ (international name Doksuri). “Everybody is preparing for El Niño, lahat ng nasa Southeast Asia, sabay-sabay nagbibilihan (all in Southeast Asia have been buying simultaneously),” Marcos, who also serves as the Agriculture chief, noted. “Kaya ninenerbyos ako dahil tataas na naman ang presyo kahit mag-import tayo (That’s [...]
New Wave, Malaysia firm eye $50-million renewable energy investment in Philippines
Key officials of Philippine-based private equity investor New Wave Strategic Holdings Inc. and Malaysian state-backed fund Emissary Capital Partners Sdn Bhd present their proposed $50-million investment to help boost the development of the country’s renewable energy sector during President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s three-day Malaysian state visit last week. Photo: New Wave and Emissary Capital Private equity investment firm New Wave Strategic Holdings Inc. and Malaysian government-backed investment fund Emissary Capital Partners Sdn Bhd are eyeing to invest $50 million into the Philippines’ renewable energy market. In a joint news release, the companies said the planned investment can help generate as much as 1,000 megawatts (MW) of bankable capacity in the country. The investment proposal was presented to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his three-day state visit in [...]
‘AFP not closed to joint exercises with China, Vietnam’
The 185 new personnel of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division are to perform anti-COVID-19 frontline missions. Philstar.com / John Unson MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines is not closing its doors on the conduct of joint military exercises with China and Vietnam, two countries with overlapping territorial claims on areas in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and South China Sea, according to AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. “Again, we are not closing our possibilities, our prospect according to our President is that we are friends to all, enemies to none,” Brawner said in an interview on radio station dzBB yesterday. Brawner said that while the AFP is exploring all possibilities to boost the country’s patrolling activities in WPS, there are no arrangements or [...]
Senate resolution to list WPS row options
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said he will file a draft resolution condemning China’s incursion into Philippine territory and its harassment of Philippine Coast Guard personnel and Filipino fishermen. The document will no longer limit the call only to asking the government to bring its case to the UN General Assembly (UNGA). The original resolution proposed by Senator Risa Hontiveros had called on the Department of Foreign Affairs to bring the issue to the UNGA for a vote, but some senators had questioned the wisdom of this move, saying it could weaken the Philippine position if the vote goes the wrong way. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., reacting to the Hontiveros resolution, also said that it is the executive branch, not the legislature, that sets foreign policy. Zubiri said the [...]
DepEd to issue guidelines on reducing teachers’ admin tasks
The Department of Education (DepEd) is set to release interim guidelines for the reduction of the administrative tasks of teachers, an official said Wednesday. At the post-SONA discussion on poverty reduction, DepEd spokesperson Michael Poa said the guidelines would be issued in a "few weeks' time.'' “Isang napakalaking reklamo ng ating teachers is ‘yung napakaraming admin tasks. That’s why in a few weeks time, we will be issuing interim guidelines in reducing kaagaran ‘yung admin tasks ng ating mga teachers,” he said. (One of the teachers’ biggest concerns is that there are a lot of administrative tasks. That’s why, in a few weeks' time, we will be issuing interim guidelines to reduce them.) “Ibibigay na natin siya sa non-teaching personnel. That’s why we’re also very aggressive in hiring non-teaching [...]
Lawmakers file bill declaring July 12 West Philippine Sea Day
The Philippine Coast Guard installs a navigational buoy at Balagtas Reef in the West Philippine Sea in May 2023. PCG/File photo A bill designating July 12 as West Philippine Sea Day to mark the country’s unprecedented international court victory against China has been filed in the House of Representatives. The Makabayan bloc filed the measure under House Bill 8583 which designates July 12 as West Philippine Sea day to celebrate the decision, issued on that day in 2016, by the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration that upheld the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the West Philippine Sea, outlawed Chinese aggression in common fishing ground areas and ultimately rejected China’s expansive nine-dash-line claim of the entire South China Sea. China has refused to recognize the Hague ruling to [...]
Deactivated SIMs may reach up to 55M — DICT chief
AT A GLANCE DICT estimated that up to 55 million Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM) cards have been deactivated after the extended SIM registration officially ended on July 25. Unregistered SIMs are given a five-day grace period for reactivation. Latest data from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) showed that the SIM registrants reached 105,917,844. Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Ivan John Uy on Wednesday, July 26 estimated that a total of 55 million Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM) cards have been deactivated after the extended SIM registration officially ended. Photo credit to Pixabay “The others that are no longer active as of today are the SIMs that we called ‘active but are non-revenue generating’, meaning this were SIMs that either was used only once or perhaps twice. [...]
Senators to discuss raising sea row to UN
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri makes a press statement after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) Act of 2023 into law a week before he delivers his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 24, 2023. Mong Pintolo / The Philippine STAR Manila, Philippines — The Senate will discuss behind closed doors a proposed resolution urging the Marcos administration to seek support from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in protecting Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri agreed to Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano’s proposal for a caucus on July 31. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and presidential adviser on West Philippine Sea Andres Centino will be invited. Cayetano earlier blocked the Senate’s adoption of a resolution [...]
‘Egay’ to exit PAR Thursday, new LPA expected to enter
Metro Manila, Philippines— Typhoon Egay is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Thursday, but another low pressure area (LPA) is seen to intensify and enter the country's weather monitoring area. In its 5 a.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Egay was last spotted 195 kilometers (km) west of Basco, Batanes. It had maximum sustained winds of 150 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center, down from 185 kph. The bureau said the typhoon is expected to leave the PAR by Thursday morning or afternoon and is forecast to cross the Taiwan Strait and make landfall in the vicinity of Fujian, China on Friday morning. PAGASA, however, warned that there is still a moderate to high risk of storm surge, [...]
DOTr lifts Covid-19 restrictions in all public transportation
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) lifted on Sunday, July 23, the existing health safety protocols in all public transportation system after President Marcos issued a presidential proclamation that set aside Covid-19 protocols as part of the move for the normalization. DOTR Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said the lifted Covid-19 protocols include the wearing face masks and physical distancing in passenger jeepneys, buses and mass transportation system. “The President’s proclamation rescinds the mask requirement in public transport. All passenger vehicles can continue to operate at full capacity,” said Bautista. “This new development is a significant step towards normalizing public transportation and supporting economic recovery,” he added. The Covid-19 protocols were strictly implemented since March 2020 and has been gradually eased in the past two years as the number fo infections [...]
Ease of doing business tops business sector’s wish list in SONA
Ease of doing business to reduce corruption in government topped the wish list of the business sector that they want President Marcos to commit in his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) today, July 24. Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry President George T. Barcelon said that top of mind in the business sector’s wish list for the President’s SONA is the ease of dong business in government agencies and especially at the local government unit (LGU) level. According to Barcelon, the Anti Red Tape Authority (ARTA) is doing its job, but it cannot do it alone. He said the bigger part lies on LGUs to further ease doing business. “It is best to impose a target for LGUs to achieve ease of doing business to facilitate [...]
PBBM reports to nation today
READY FOR THE REPORT. A giant banner of the State of the Nation Address (SONA) hangs at the entrance of the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City, where President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will deliver his second SONA on Monday. Joan Bondoc President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivers his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) today —a progress report after a year in power in which he says the country made significant strides as he acknowledged that his governance has a long way to go. “That’s what I want to explain to people — that we have made significant progress. We can see the difference now, not only in terms of how the systems work, how the government works. It is also how we are seen or judged [...]
Philippines, US hold maritime dialogue in Washington
“The US-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty, Visiting Forces Agreement and Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement are the modern-day legacy of the shared sacrifice borne by our veterans,” she said yesterday. STAR / File Manila, Philippines — The Philippines and the United States have agreed to step up maritime policy and operational cooperation amid tensions in the South China Sea. At the second Philippines-US Maritime Dialogue on July 21 in Washington, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for maritime and ocean affairs Maria Angela Ponce underscored that “the rising tensions and critical situation in the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea and the persistent and evolving challenges to the rules-based international order drive us to enhance ways to respond faster, and in a more coordinated and effective manner.” Ponce led the [...]
Egay intensifies into a typhoon; Signal No. 2 over part of Catanduanes
Typhoon Egay as of 11:10 p.m., July 23, 2023. PAGASA Severe Tropical Storm Egay has intensified into a typhoon as it moves over the Philippine Sea, PAGASA said late Sunday. In its 11 p.m. bulletin, the state weather bureau said that the center of Typhoon Egay's eye is estimated to be 490 km east-northeast of Daet, Camarines Norte, or 620 km east of Baler, Aurora. It is moving west-northwest at 10 kilometers per hour with maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h near the center, gustiness of up to 150 km/h, and a central pressure of 975 hPa. "Strong to typhoon-force winds extend outwards up to 550 km from the center," PAGASA said. Storm Signal No. 2 has been hoisted over the northeastern portion of Catanduanes (Pandan, Bagamanoc, Panganiban, [...]
‘Egay’ intensifies into severe tropical storm — PAGASA
Satellite photo shows Severe Tropical Storm Egay (international name: Doksuri) on July 23, 2023 at 10:40 a.m. PAGASA Manila, Philippines — Cyclone Egay (international name: Doksuri) has intensified into a severe tropical storm, and will bring heavy rain to parts of the country, state weather bureau PAGASA said Sunday. The cyclone's peak winds increased to 95 kilometers per hour near the center and its gusts increased to up to 115 kph, PAGASA said in its 11 a.m. bulletin. Egay is forecast to reach typhoon category within 24 hours and may become a super typhoon on Tuesday. Weather forecasters said that rapid intensification may happen within the next 72 hours due to favorable atmospheric and oceanic conditions. Egay is expected to remain offshore for most of the forecast period, but PAGASA [...]
Rody, Bato told: Limit travel
Remulla: PH to ‘stop engaging’ with ICC despite probe Former President Rodrigo Duterte, who initiated a bloody war on drugs that killed thousands of suspects during his term, should stay away from countries where the International Criminal Court (ICC) has influence, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said Wednesday. Remulla said the same holds true for Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who led the war on drugs when he was Duterte’s national police chief. Both are subjects of an ICC investigation triggered by charges of crimes against humanity allegedly committed under Duterte’s leadership. Remulla also said the Philippines will stop engaging with the ICC as he will advise the Office of the Solicitor General to stop engaging with the court. “They are citizens of the republic who also need our protection [...]
ICC can now issue arrest warrants over drug deaths
The Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Court in The Hague will rule today on the Philippine government’s appeal for the prosecutor not to proceed with the investigation into alleged crimes against humanity committed in the war on drugs under former president Rodrigo Duterte and ex-PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has made it clear authorities would not cooperate with ICC prosecutors. STAR / File Manila, Philippines — The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court can now apply for the issuance of arrest warrants at the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber. The Philippine government has said it will not implement any arrest warrant from the ICC. “At this stage, the prosecutor can actually already decide who he might charge with crimes against humanity, which is [...]
PBBM okays P170-b pitch to rehab NAIA
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved a P170-billion proposal to rehabilitate and expand the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said Wednesday. The project is one of three additional infrastructure projects the President approved as part of the administration’s eight-point socioeconomic agenda in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, Balisacan said. Balisacan said that the proposed NAIA rehabilitation project, which will be undertaken through a public-private partnership, aims to improve the annual airport capacity from 35 million to at least 62 million passengers and enhance air traffic movement and overall passenger experience. The project is expected to begin in 2024. Meanwhile, Balisacan said the P267-billion unsolicited offer of the Manila International Airport Consortium (MIAC) was considered closed after the NEDA Board approved [...]
Economy slowed in Q2 on weaker consumption
Streaks of lightning strike through the night sky behind condominium buildings in Manila on July 1, 2023. STAR / Miguel De Guzman Manila, Philippines — The Philippine economy likely posted slower growth of 5.6 percent in the second quarter on weaker consumption, analysts said. During the First Metro Investment Corp. (FMIC) briefing yesterday, University of Asia and the Pacific economist Victor Abola said he saw a 5.6 percent gross domestic product (GDP) growth for the second quarter, slower than the 6.4 percent growth posted in the first quarter. Abola said consumption spending is expected to have slowed down in the second quarter. “It is really the carryover of the inflation into the second quarter. Even though it is lower, people have become more reluctant,” he said. Headline inflation [...]
LPA to bring rain showers to most of PH
The low-pressure area (LPA) east of Mindanao is expected to bring rain showers to most of the country and strengthen into a tropical depression in the coming days, said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Thursday, July 20. PAGASA weather specialist Patrick Del Mundo said scattered light to occasional heavy rains may prevail over Visayas, Romblon, Sorsogon, Masbate, Zamboanga del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Camiguin, Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte, and Dinagat Islands. It warned of possible flash floods or landslides during moderate to heavy rainfall in these areas. Meanwhile, the rest of the country may experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms due to the trough or extension of the LPA. LPA likely to become tropical depression [...]
Marcos: Gov’t to keep pursuing public transpo projects
At the inauguration of new light rail transit (LRT-1) trains, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said the government will keep pursuing public transportation projects in the country. President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (Noel Pabalate) Marcos cited his pronouncement in his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) where he emphasized the integral role of infrastructure development such as the construction of agricultural roads and improvement of railways systems in the country's socio and economic progress. "In line with this, I am one with the general public in eagerly anticipating the full operations of the LRT-1 Cavite extension for 2027," the President said during the inauguration ceremony held in Pasay City on Wednesday, July 19. "I assure you that this administration will continue to pursue more public transportation projects [...]
SC affirms dismissal of ₱1-B ill-gotten wealth case vs. Marcoses, cronies
Metro Manila, Philippines— The Supreme Court (SC) has upheld the dismissal of the government's ₱1.05-billion civil case against the late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos, his widow Imelda Marcos, and their cronies who allegedly acted as their dummies to accumulate ill-gotten wealth. In a ruling promulgated on March 29 but released to the media only on Wednesday, the high court affirmed the September 2019 decision of the Sandiganbayan, which dismissed the case filed by the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) due to lack of evidence. In October 2019, the government filed a motion for reconsideration, but the Sandiganbayan denied this for lack of merit. This prompted the government to file a petition in June 2020 asking the SC to review the anti-graft court’s verdict. The SC said “there is [...]
‘LPA outside PAR may develop into typhoon’
Manila, Philippines — A new low-pressure area (LPA) has developed outside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) in the eastern section of Mindanao and may soon develop into a typhoon, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said yesterday. “At 2 p.m. in the afternoon (of July 16) the cloud clusters outside PAR have developed into a low-pressure area and may develop into a typhoon within 24 to 48 hours,” PAGASA weather specialist Adlczar Aurelio said. He added that the LPA will be named “Egay” once it turns into a typhoon. Aurelio said that as of 3 p.m. on July 16, Severe Tropical Storm Dodong (international name Talim), now outside PAR, was located 565 kilometers west-northwest of Laoag City, Ilocos Norte or 710 km west of Basco, [...]
Maynilad suspends water service interruptions in some areas
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines— Maynilad Water Services has suspended service interruptions in some areas beginning Sunday as the rains brought by Tropical Storm Dodong have increased the water level in Ipo Dam. "Pansamantang isususpinde ang scheduled daily water service interruptions sa ilang bahagi ng Caloocan, Malabon, Manila, Navotas, Quezon City at Valenzuela simula ngayon hanggang sa susunod na abiso," the West Zone water concessionaire said in an advisory. [Translation: Scheduled daily water service interruptions in some areas in Caloocan, Malabon, Manila, Navotas, Quezon City and Valenzuela are suspended from today until further notice.] "Ang mga pag-ulan nitong nakalipas na araw dulot ng #DodongPH ay nakatulong mapataas ang water elevation sa Ipo Dam, dahilan kung bakit patuloy naming natatanggap mula sa portal ang 2,400 MLD (million liters per day) [...]
At least 45,000 Metro Manila drivers, operators to join 3-day transport strike – Manibela
FILE PHOTO Metro Manila, Philippines — Transport group Manibela said from 45,000 to 50,000 drivers and operators from Metro Manila are expected to participate in the three-day nationwide "tigil-pasada" that will begin on July 24. In an effort to draw President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s attention to the government's lack of urgency in addressing their concerns about the PUV modernization program, the transport strike will coincide with his second State of the Nation Address. "Siguro nasa 45,000 to 50,000 po ang kasama dito dahil ilang cities na po ang naikutan natin simula noong maghayag tayo ng tigil-pasada," Manibela Chairman Mar Valbuena told CNN Philippines' Newsroom Weekend. [Translation: Maybe around 45,000 to 50,000 people will participate because we have already gone around several cities since we announced the transport strike.] [...]
‘Bagong Pilipinas’ set as new governance, leadership brand
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the adoption of a new brand of governance and leadership campaign characterized by a “principled, accountable and dependable government.” In a three-page memorandum circular dated July 3, 2023, the President also approved the “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) logo. Mr. Marcos directed all national government agencies, including government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs) and state universities and colleges (SUCs), to adopt the “Bagong Pilipinas” campaign in their programs, activities and projects. “Bagong Pilipinas is the overarching theme of the administration’s brand of governance and leadership, which calls for deep and fundamental transformations in all sectors of society and government, and fosters the state’s commitment towards the attainment of comprehensive policy reforms and full economic recovery,” read the memorandum. Mr. Marcos also ordered that the campaign [...]
No more laughs: P3-M Pagcor logo draws calls for probe
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO You’ve laughed at the parodies. Now comes the serious part. Two days after being unveiled, the new logo of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) continued to draw scrutiny not only for its design and rationale, but also for its P3-million price tag and other issues. Members of the Makabayan bloc at the House of Representatives on Wednesday afternoon filed a resolution seeking an inquiry into the “questionable” contract awarded by Pagcor for the rebranding project. The lawmakers noted that the contract was awarded to Printplus Graphic Services, an entity enrolled in the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) just last month and registered in the Department of Trade and Industry in March 2021 with “only a barangay scope for its business name.” Filed [...]
NIA lays out El Niño water plans; Rain, floods paralyze traffic in NCR
WATER CONTRAST. Long lines form on the southbound lane of the South Luzon Expressway as flooding in Bicutan, Paranaque stalled traffic on Thursday. Gutter-deep waters also plague a motorcycle rider in Manila after day-long rains– while ironically the water levels of Angat Dam, Ipo Dam, and Bustos Dam, all in the province of Bulacan, continue to drop. Joan Bondoc, Danny Pata, and Norman Cruz The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) said Thursday it is prepared for the El Niño phenomenon as its field office nationwide has action plans that include water delivery schedules, alternate wetting and drying technology, crop diversification, and the use of early maturing drought-resistant crop varieties. Meanwhile, day-long rains owing to the southwest monsoon led to flooding —and huge traffic jams—in portions of Metro Manila [...]
LTO to roll out e-driver’s license
Manila, Philippines — To address the shortage of plastic cards, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) will be issuing a digital or electronic version of the driver’s license this month, an official announced yesterday. LTO officer-in-charge Hector Villacorta said the e-driver’s license is in line with the agency’s digitalization efforts and to ensure the efficient administration of the licensing system. “The digital driver’s license is a valid, secure and an alternative form of identification for persons driving motor vehicles,” Villacorta said. It will replace the paper-based official receipt that serves as a temporary driver’s license, which is traditionally printed on a plastic card. LTO’s Memorandum Circular No. HAV-2023-2410, which outlines the rules for the digital license will be effective starting July 26. Villacorta said motorists can present the e-driver’s license [...]
UN says ‘end of AIDS’ still possible by 2030
Geneva, Switzerland - "The end of AIDS" is still possible by 2030, the United Nations insisted Thursday, but cautioned that the world's deadliest pandemic could only be halted if leaders grasped the opportunity. "AIDS can be ended by 2030," the UNAIDS agency said as it outlined a roadmap of investment, evidence-based prevention and treatment and tackling the inequalities that are currently holding back progress. UNAIDS said that ending the pandemic was, above all, a political and financial choice. "Success is possible -- in this decade," said executive director Winnie Byanyima. The UN first set out in 2015 the target of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Byanyima said the greatest progress on HIV -- the virus that causes AIDS -- was being made in the countries and [...]
Signal No. 1 raised as TD Dodong makes landfall in Isabela
Metro Manila , Philippines — Storm signals are raised over areas in Luzon as Tropical Depression Dodong makes landfall in Dinapigue, Isabela early Friday morning, the state weather bureau reported. According to its 5 a.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Dodong has maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour (kph) and gustiness of 55 kph. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 is raised over Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Apayao, Kalinga, Abra, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, the northern portion of Pangasinan, the northern and central portions of Aurora, and the northern and eastern portions of Polillo Islands. PAG-ASA warns of heavy rainfall and potential flooding and landslides in those areas. It added that wind impacts in [...]
LIST: Metro Manila areas with water service interruptions beginning July 12
Metro Manila, Philippines— Customers of Maynilad Water Services in Caloocan, Malabon, Manila, Navotas, Quezon City, and Valenzuela will encounter water service interruptions for at least nine hours beginning July 12. The service interruptions are an offshoot of lower water allocation from Metro Manila's only source — Angat Dam — from 50 cubic meters per second (cms) to 48 cms in light of declining reservoir level below the 180-meter minimum operating mark. The service interruption will affect around 591,000 connections beginning 7 p.m. The west zone concessionaire advised customers to stock up on supply as water hoarding will result in higher bills. In a press briefing on Monday, Ronald Padua, Maynilad Water Supply Operations head, said supply will normalize beginning 4 a.m., but some remote and elevated barangays will have [...]
MAP: Addressing education crisis should be prioritized
Students from the City University of Pasay gather yesterday at the Philippine International Convention Center for their graduation ceremony. Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano was among the attendees. Ernie Peñaredondo Manila, Philippines — Business group Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) is urging the country to prioritize the easing of the current education crisis, emphasizing the need to transform the country’s education system to allow it to better adapt to a changed workplace in a technology-driven world. “We in the MAP believe that easing the education crisis should be one of the country’s top priorities, and we call on all sectors to actively participate in addressing it,” MAP president Benedicta Du-Baladad said in a statement on July 10. Du-Baladad said that the time has come for a public-private partnership [...]
Metro Manila Subway to be fully operational in six years – DOTr
Manila, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Monday projected that the 33-kilometer Metro Manila Subway Project is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2029. The subway has 17 stations stretching from Valenzuela City to Parañaque City. Six of the stations interconnect with Metro Rail Transit. These stations are Line 3 (MRT-3), Light Rail Transit – Line 1 (LRT-1), MRT-7, LRT-2, FTI Terminal and North–South Commuter Railway. “Our new timeline is 2029. Full operations iyon. Our challenges, of course, was (were) COVID – the effect of pandemic, and based sa unang approval with NEDA, initially only 13 states. Nadagdagan. Naging 17,” said DOTr Assistant Secretary for Railways Jorjette Aquino said in a press conference. (Our new timeline is 2029. That’s full operations. Our challenges, of [...]
AFP actively monitoring Kalayaan Islands after swarming of Chinese vessels
Metro Manila, Philippines – The military is closely monitoring the Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea after a swarm of over 48 Chinese fishing vessels were reported near the Iroquois Reef, south of the Recto bank, on June 30. “The AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) in coordination with other government agencies under Area Task Force (ATF)-West is actively monitoring developments in the Kalayaan Island Group,” the AFP told CNN Philippines. “The case is being handled by the NTF-WPS [National Task Force-West Philippine Sea],” it added. The ATF-West falls under the task force. It said three China Coast Guard (CCG) ships and two People’s Liberation Army Navy vessels were also seen “regularly loitering” at Sabina Shoal. Created in 2016, the NTF-WPS is chaired by the National Security Adviser. [...]
PH, US start 2nd ‘Cope Thunder’ air drills
The Philippines and the United States on Friday opened the second iteration of their air forces’ joint “Cope Thunder” exercise at Clark Air Base in Pampanga. A total of 1,272 airmen are participating in the bilateral exercise: 687 troops from the Philippine Air Force and 585 from the US Pacific Air Force, according to PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo. Maj. Gen. Augustine Malinit, commander of the PAF Air Defense Command, noted the significance of the air drill as “an opportunity to assimilate forces and augment interoperability between the Philippines and the United States.” The first phase of the exercise was held in May, following its revival after over three decades. Washington and Manila first held the Cope Thunder drills in 1991. Malinit said the second Cope Thunder this [...]
Gov’t resumes Armed Forces modernization
President Marcos wants military to catch up, be back on track in 2 yrs amid security threats President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. wants the Armed Forces of the Philippines to modernize faster and catch up with the rest of the world following the setback caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Kung ano ‘yung schedule natin, medyo naatras lang nang kaunti because of the pandemic. But now, we are proceeding back to our established schedule,” the President told reporters during the graduation rites of the Philippine Army Officer Candidate Course “Gaigmat” Class 58-2023 in Taguig City. “Hopefully, we will catch up and, in a year, maybe two, we will already be back to where we were supposed to be at that time before the pandemic,” he said. The AFP modernization program involves [...]
PCG to keep exposing China Sea aggression
MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Amid the reported presence of Chinese ships in disputed areas of the West Philippine Sea, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has vowed to continue to “expose” the alleged aggression of China. Previously, the PCG reported that its two ships were “constantly followed, harassed and obstructed” by China Coast Guard vessels during a resupply mission for the Philippine Navy ship BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal last June 30. The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Command (AFP-WESCOM) also revealed that it saw around 52 Chinese military and fishing boats around Del Pilar (Iroquois) Reef and Escoda (Sabina) Shoal. PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela, who speaks for the government’s task force on the West Philippine Sea, said 48 of them were Chinese maritime militia vessels, three China Coast [...]
Angat Dam water level now below 180 meters; NCR water allocation cut takes effect
Metro Manila, Philippines– The water allocation cut for Metro Manila takes effect as the water level of Angat Dam fell below its minimum operating level, authorities said. National Water Resources Board (NWRB) Executive Director Sevillo David Jr. said the 48 cubic meters per second (CMS) water allocation for concessionaires and 20 CMS for the National Irrigation Authority (NIA) are now being implemented, as the water level in Angat Dam dipped to 179.99 meters early Saturday morning. According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) dam information, Angat Dam’s minimum operating level is 180 meters, while its normal high water level (NHWL), or spilling level, is 210 meters. The NWRB on Thursday said it will reduce the water allocation for Metro Manila to 48 cubic meters per [...]
DA: 66 areas likely to be hit by El Niño
MANILA , PHILIPPINES— Some 66 areas in the country may experience dry condition, dry spell and drought until the end of the year due to El Niño. In its advisory issued on Thursday, the Department of Agriculture - Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Section (DA-DRRMC) said a total of 28 areas in the country may experience dry condition -- three in Luzon, five in the Visayas and 20 in Mindanao. Meanwhile, dry spell is looming in 36 areas -- 32 in Luzon and four in the Visayas. It added that the provinces of Camarines Norte and Southern Leyte may experience drought. “El Niño increases the likelihood of below-normal rainfall conditions, which could bring negative impacts (such as dry spells and droughts) in some areas of the country,” it said. [...]
17% of 564 food products contain high trans fat – study
Michael Pelagio, a science research specialist of the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) Chemical Laboratory, said that oils and fats such as sesame oil and mayonnaise, unsalted butter, all-purpose cream, and bread and pastry products such as cookies and doughnuts had TFA content of more than two grams per 100 gram serving. STAR / File MANILA, PHILIPPINES — A chemical analysis of 564 food products sold in local markets found that 17 percent of the products or brands had high trans fatty acid or TFA content posing health risk to consumers. Michael Pelagio, a science research specialist of the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) Chemical Laboratory, said that oils and fats such as sesame oil and mayonnaise, unsalted [...]
Filipinos split on Maharlika fund’s benefits – SWS
Metro Manila, Philippines— Filipinos are divided on the potential benefits of the controversial Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) that now awaits President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s signature, according to a Social Weather Station (SWS) survey conducted in March. The poll showed 51% of respondents said they expect little or no benefit from the MIF, while 56% expect much benefit from it. There were also differing opinions on their level of confidence that the sovereign wealth fund will not become corrupt – with 31% saying they have a lot of confidence, 29% have little confidence, and 38% unsure. The survey found that only 20% believe they were sufficiently informed about the MIF. On the other hand, 22% said they have little knowledge about the fund, while the majority or 47% expressed they have [...]
Marcos to sign agrarian emancipation act today
President Marcos witnesses the ceremonial signing of the inter-governmental energy board circular on the joint award of petroleum service and coal operating contracts in the Bangsamoro region at Malacañang yesterday. STAR / File MANILA, PHILIPPINES — President Marcos will sign into law today the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, which will officially condone at least P58 billion in arrears incurred by more than 600,000 farmer-beneficiaries from his late father’s land reform program under Presidential Decree 27, including agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) of the late former president Corazon Aquino. Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III said that Marcos will also lead the simultaneous nationwide distribution of at least 31,831 land titles to 23,699 agrarian reform beneficiaries after the signing of the New Agrarian [...]
PCG waiting for possible diplomatic action after China’s latest aggression in WPS
Metro Manila, Philippines— The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Thursday said it has already reported to authorities details of the Chinese Coast Guard’s (CCG) "dangerous maneuvers" to block the resupply mission of Philippine ships on June 30, and is now awaiting government's next steps regarding the incident. Speaking to CNN Philippines’ The Source, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said the completed report on the incident was immediately submitted to the National Task Force West Philippine Sea. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) was also notified about the matter, he added. “As to the diplomatic action that has to be carried out by the DFA, I know they’re going to have one but as to what that is in particular, it's for the DFA to probably [...]
Inflation slows down for 5th straight month in June
The Philippines’ inflation rate slowed for a fifth month in a row in June on the back of slower movements in food, transport, and utility prices, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Wednesday. At a press briefing, National Statistician and PSA chief Claire Dennis Mapa reported that inflation — the rate of increase in the prices of consumer goods and services — eased to 5.4% last month from 6.1% in May, bringing the year-to-date rate to 7.2%. This is the fifth time that inflation slipped from a peak of 8.7% in January. Last month's inflation rate falls within the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas' forecast range of 5.3% to 6.1%. —KBK, GMA Integrated News
Monday was the hottest day ever as global temperatures rise
Global temperatures hit a record on Monday, underscoring the dangers of ever-increasing carbon emissions generated from burning fossil fuels. The average worldwide temperature was 17C (63F), just above the previous record of 16.9C reached in August 2016, according to data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction. The new high underscores the extremity of 2023’s summer in the northern hemisphere. “This is not a milestone we should be celebrating, it's a death sentence for people and ecosystems,” said Friederike Otto, a senior lecturer at the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment. “Worryingly, it won't be the hottest day for a long time.” The El Niño weather phenomenon is set to break more records this year, she said. The heat this summer has already put millions of people [...]
Commuter hotline for transport concerns, complaints launched
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has opened a central hotline that the public can call for concerns and complaints on transport issues. The commuter hotline, 0920-964-3687, will receive calls from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays to Fridays, according to a news release on Wednesday. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the hotline is the agency's channel to receive complaints and reports of red tape from citizens within its offices and attached agencies. "We established this hotline because we recognize the public’s role in creating a clean and efficient DOTr,” Bautista said. “We urge our fellow Filipinos to report your concerns via the commuter hotline that require full attention of the DOTr and its attached agencies."
Speaker, House transmit Maharlika bill to Senate for President to sign
PRE-LEDAC GAB. House Speaker Martin Romualdez (left) and Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri listen to other lawmakers as they lead the pre-LEDAC meting in Makati City late Monday to discuss priority measures for the Second Regular Session of the 19th Congress. Ver Noveno Speaker Martin Romualdez and House Secretary General Reginald Velasco have signed the Maharlika Investment Fund bill and transmitted the signed copy to the Senate on Monday. The latest version of the bill that was approved by Congress was earlier signed by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri while he was in the United States on June 21. Romualdez, the principal author of the bill, earlier said the amendments introduced to the measure, specifically the inclusion of more safeguards against possible abuse and fraud, were “our way [...]
Marcos orders probe into hoarding, smuggling of agricultural products
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday ordered an investigation into the smuggling of onions and other agricultural products, saying the act was equivalent to economic sabotage. "I have just given instructions to the DOJ and the NBI to initiate an investigation into the hoarding, smuggling (and) price fixing of agricultural commodities. And this is stemming from the hearing that we've conducted in the House, specifically by Congresswoman Stella Quimbo and the findings that they came up with," said Marcos. In May, Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo, the vice chairperson of the House Appropriations Committee, alleged that Lilia "Lea" Cruz engineered the artificial spike in onion prices late last year until the early part of 2023 through companies involved in all levels of the value chain. Cruz [...]
US thanks Philippines for thriving partnership
US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson expressed her gratitude to President Marcos for highlighting such friendship and how it will be sustained. STAR / File MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The United States yesterday thanked the Philippines for the continuing and growing friendship between the two nations as friends, partners and allies. US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson expressed her gratitude to President Marcos for highlighting such friendship and how it will be sustained. “This Philippine-American Friendship Day, we commemorate the deep bond between our nations built on shared values and aspirations. May our thriving partnership continue to bring strength and prosperity to both our peoples,” Carlson said in a Twitter post. She also shared a tweet by Marcos himself where the latter acknowledged the strong alliance and partnership between the Philippines and the [...]
CHR urges better protection for media workers after latest attack
Commission on Human Rights in Quezon City (File photo by NIÑO JESUS ORBETA / Philippine Daily Inquirer) MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) condemned on Monday the recent attacks against journalists, including the gun attack on photojournalist Joshua Abiad and the death threats against a fact-checking organization Vera Files. Such incidents, which erode press freedom, should serve as a reminder for the government to take proactive measures that protect media workers, the CHR said in a statement. “CHR expresses solidarity with the media community in strongly condemning the gun attack of Remate Online photojournalist Joshua Abiad and his family, and the death threats against fact-checking media organization VERA Files,” the CHR said. “CHR continues to reiterate that acts of violence and intimidation against media [...]
Barangay, SK officials to get shorter terms following SC ruling on grassroots elections
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO MANILA, PHILIPPINES—With the decision of the Supreme Court (SC) that declared unconstitutional the law that rescheduled barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections, originally set for Dec. 5, 2022, to Oct. 30, 2023, the winners of the October elections will have a shorter term. Last year, Republic Act (RA) No. 11935 was signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., giving sitting barangay and SK officials almost a year of extended office, but the law was assailed at the SC. The SC later declared that the free and meaningful exercise of the right to vote, as protected and guaranteed by the 1987 Constitution, required the conduct of “genuine periodic elections,” which should be held at intervals not excessively long. The village and youth elections, as mandated [...]
Philippines stays as lower-middle income economy —World Bank
The Philippines has remained a lower-middle income economy under the latest World Bank (WB) classification, which saw it trailing behind some of its neighbors in Southeast Asia. Data from the international lending agency showed the Philippines gross national income (GNI) in 2022 at $3,950. The country's GNI per capital fell within the WB's bracket for lower-middle income economies of $1,136 - $4,465. The income bracket was raised from $1,086 - $4,255 a year ago. Calculated using the World Bank Atlas method, for the current 2024 fiscal year, low-income economies are defined as those with a GNI per capita of $1,135 or less in 2022; lower-middle income economies are those with a GNI per capita between $1,136 and $4,465; upper-middle income economies are those with a GNI per capita between [...]
MRT firm files petition for P2 fare increase
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Monday said the management of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) has re-filed a petition for a fare increase before the agency’s Rail Regulatory Unit. Transportation Undersecretary Cesar Chavez said no fare adjustment was approved for the MRT-3 for the last eight years. Earlier, MRT-3’s fare hike petition was deferred due to “infirmities in complying with the requirements and procedure.” MRT 3 filed for an additional P2.29 boarding fare and P0.21 distance fare per kilometer to finance its operating expenses. “Therefore, P148 is the indicative subsidy by the government for every passenger for every end-to-end trip,” Chavez said in a mix of English and Filipino. Chavez said the LRT-1 operators had also asked for a fare increase since 2016. The LRT-1 runs from [...]
Zubiri softens, now open to P100 wage hike
LABOR DEMAND | Employees of hospitals and other medical facilities hold a noise barrage in front of the Philippine Orthopedic Center in Quezon City to demand a higher entry salary for all health workers. (Photo by GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE / Philippine Daily Inquirer) MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Monday said he was looking at modifying his proposal for a legislated P100 wage increase instead of the P150 across-the-board hike he had earlier proposed. Zubiri said he would be willing to modify Senate Bill No. 2002, even if the Senate Committee on Labor had already prepared its report endorsing the P150 daily hike. “So what we could do is amend it and come up with the committee report, propose a P100 minimum wage increase — [...]
DOT ends contract with ad agency behind controversial ‘Love the Philippines’ video
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has terminated its contract with the ad agency which handled the “Love the Philippines” slogan following the controversy that emanated from the use of stock footage of scenic views reportedly taken from other countries. In a statement, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said the department was outraged and extremely disappointed with the DDB Philippines’s use of stock footage that was supposed to help the Philippines sell its tourism market abroad. The audio-visual presentation (AVP) for the “Love the Philippines” was prepared, produced, and published by DDB Philippines as a component of the launch of the enhanced tourism branding campaign for the country. But it was heavily criticized in social media after it turned out that some of the footage used were purportedly taken from other [...]
Marcos lauds Air Force’s ‘essential’ maritime patrols to secure PH
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. rallied members of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to brace themselves for “geopolitical changes” as he underscored the importance of maritime air patrol missions in upholding territorial integrity. “The days ahead will not be easy and will demand every ounce of your strength and resilience. The winds of change signal geopolitical changes around our region and other parts of the world that have yet to affect us,” Mr. Marcos said during the PAF’s 76th founding anniversary at Clark Air Base in Pampanga on Monday. “The Philippine Air Force’s maritime air patrol missions are thus essential in upholding our territorial integrity and safeguarding Philippine maritime zones,” added the commander-in-chief. AIR FORCE’S 76TH. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. salutes the line befor speaking in the 76th founding [...]
QC to launch ‘care card’ for LGBTQ+ couples
The Quezon City (QC) government is set to launch the country’s first “care card” that would authorize LGBTQ+ couples to make medical decisions for their partners. QC Mayor Joy Belmonte on Friday announced the local government will launch the “Right to Care Card” for residents on Saturday, June 24 in time for the annual Pride Festival, which culminates activities for the celebration of Pride Month. “Dito sa care card na ito, ang isang LGBT couple na matagal nang nagmamahalan, through a Special Power of Attorney, will be able to have authority over the healthcare decisions na dapat gawin o kailangang gawin para sa isang partner,” Belmonte said in a digital show. (Under this care card, LGBTQ+ couples may authorize their partners to make healthcare decisions for their partner under [...]
New Zealand to ease migration rules to lure more skilled workers
Several developed economies have boosted annual migration numbers or eased visa rules to help key businesses recruit staff to fill shortages after the COVID-19 pandemic brought tighter border controls and kept foreign workers out. SYDNEY, Australia - New Zealand said on Wednesday it would free up its annual intake of highly skilled migrants and chart a faster route to giving them permanent residency, as rich nations compete to lure the best global talent. Several developed economies have boosted annual migration numbers or eased visa rules to help key businesses recruit staff to fill shortages after the COVID-19 pandemic brought tighter border controls and kept foreign workers out. "The changes ... to ensure there is no cap on skilled migrants removes an artificial constraint in the old system," Immigration [...]
Marcos OKs ₱5.768-T budget for 2024
Metro Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the proposed ₱5.768-trillion national funding for next year, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said Friday. The proposed budget reflects a 9.5% increase from 2023’s ₱5.268 trillion, the DBM said in a statement. “Guided by our Medium-Term Fiscal Framework, the proposed national budget will continue to prioritize expenditures outlined in the administration's 8-Point Socioeconomic Agenda and cater to the objectives of PDP 2023-2028,” DBM chief Amenah Pangandaman was quoted as saying in the statement. “It shall continue to reflect our commitment to pursue economic and social transformation to address the scarring effects of the pandemic, as well as the impact of inflation, by prioritizing shovel-ready investments in infrastructure projects, investments in human capital development, and sustainable agriculture and food security, [...]
Senators grill local airlines over ‘systemic’ flight delays, other inconveniences
Cebu Pacific representatives (left to right) Chief Corporate Affairs officer Michael Ivan Shau, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer Candice Iyog, and Chief Commercial Officer Alexander Lao during the Senate hearing on the Airline Passengers' Complaints Against Cebu Pacific in Pasay City on June 21, 2023. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News MANILA (UPDATE) -- The Senate on Wednesday began its probe into the "numerous passenger complaints" against local airlines, with senators and regular passengers sharing their "nightmarish" flight experiences. The Senate resolution filed by Sen. Nancy Binay only specified Cebu Pacific's issue with overbooking and offloading but the Senate Committee on Tourism also invited representatives from Philippine Airlines and Air Asia. "Aside from the power outages in our airports, airline passengers continue to complain of overbooking, offloading and [...]
Solon says Pinoy kids should learn world’s top 3 languages
MULTILINGUAL. Senator Pia Cayetano (2nd right) during the Senate hearing on the status of the mother tongue education for young learners on Wednesday (June 21, 2023), emphasizes that policymakers must prepare the youth for the future which requires being able to speak the top languages of the world. (Photo courtesy of the Office of Senator Pia Cayetano) Manila, Philippines – A lawmaker urged on Wednesday parents and guardians to secure their children's future with 21st century skills which include communication, collaboration, being able to work in different environments and the ability to adapt. Senator Pia Cayetano said to acquire these skills, learning to speak different languages would matter a lot. During the Senate Committee on Basic Education hearing on the status of the Department of Education's (DepEd) Mother Toungue - [...]
Junk food, softdrinks tax eyed
Gov’t aims to curb people’s poor diet, raise funds for vital projects The government will push for the passage of new revenue measures that include additional taxes on sweetened beverages and junk food within the year, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said Wednesday. The target would be to have the new tax measures take effect in 2024, so they would have until the end of the year to push for their passage, Pangandaman said. Aside from generating additional revenues to be used for vital government projects, the higher taxes would result in better health for the people, she said. In a statement, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Department of Health (DOH) are jointly pursuing a junk food and sweetened beverage tax “as a [...]
Labor groups seek P100 wage hike in NCR
Manila, Philippines – Labor groups on Wednesday asked the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) - National Capital Region (NCR) for a PHP100 wage increase during the public hearing in Pasay City. (File photo) According to the Partido Manggagawa (PM), organizations from the workers’ sector are pushing for the approval of the wage petition filed by the Kapatiran ng mga Unyon at Samahang Manggagawa (Kapatiran) last December 6. "As of January 2023, workers have lost P88 in the value of the PHP570 minimum wage due to inflation. Thus, PHP100 is necessary to recover the purchasing power of workers’ wages," said PM Secretary General Judy Miranda in a statement. "This wage hike demand is merely wage recovery. We are not yet even [...]
Duterte, Ong, Tulfo top choices for senator in 2025 midterm polls
Former President Rodrigo Duterte again topped a list of preferred candidates for senator in the 2025 midterm elections, according to the Pahayag 2023 second-quarter survey conducted by Publicus Asia from June 7 to 12. Based on the “voting predisposition” of 1,500 respondents, the survey saw Duterte ranked first with 51%, followed by health expert Dr. Willie Ong and ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo, who both got 44%. Ong was a losing vice presidential bet in the 2022 elections as the running mate of erstwhile Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso. Former President Rodrigo Duterte The survey results also showed that the top national issue this quarter is the need to use renewable energy, surpassing the perennial concerns on the affordability of basic commodities, wages, livelihood, sourcing more funds [...]
Philippines improves to 16th place in gender equality
Individuals cross a rainbow pedestrian lane in Araneta City, Cubao on May 31, 2023. STAR / Michael Varcas Manila, Philippines — The Philippines climbed three places and remained among the leading countries in East Asia and the Pacific in terms of gender equality in this year’s Global Gender Gap Report of the World Economic Forum (WEF). Released yesterday, the report showed the Philippines climbed to 16th place with a gender parity score of 0.791 this year from the 19th spot and a score of 0.783 last year. A score of one indicates full parity. The latest result means the country has achieved 79.1 percent gender parity. “Despite an improvement of three positions and 0.88 percentage points since last year, this is only a partial recovery towards its 2018 parity [...]
Zubiri signs Maharlika Investment Fund bill
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines— Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri signed the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) bill on Wednesday in Washington D.C. in the United States. Senate Secretary Renato Bantug brought a copy of the bill to Washington D.C. where Zubiri is currently on a working visit. The bill will be brought to House Speaker Martin Romualdez before being transmitted to Malacañang for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s signature. When asked about the errors in the bill, Zubiri said these were addressed. "I believe the corrections were thoroughly discussed by the majority bloc in our Viber group, including the letter of correction sent by Senator Mark Villar," Zubiri added. The senators approved the MIF bill on May 31. Only Sen. Risa Hontiveros voted against the proposed measure while Sen. [...]
PH falls by four spots in global competitiveness ranking
This photo taken on Jan. 29, 2019, shows a general view of the Manila skyline. (File photo by TED ALJIBE / Agence France-Presse) Manila, Philippines — The Philippines dropped by four spots in the yearly global competitiveness report by the Switzerland-based International Institute for Management Development (IMD), amid a number of global uncertainties ranging from inflation to geopolitical issues. According to the 2023 World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY) by IMD, the Philippines ranked 52nd this year out of 64 countries included in the report, down four spots from 48th place last year. Compared to its peers in the Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines continued to stay in 13th place out of 14 countries for six consecutive years. Professor Arturo Bris, director of the World Competitiveness Center, said this year’s results [...]
Bill seeks return of June-to-March school calendar
The Makabayan bloc on Monday filed a bill that seeks to mandate the return of the June-to-March school calendar. House Bill (HB) 8550 will amend Section 3 of Republic Act (RA) 7797 as amended. RA 7797 was titled "An Act To Lengthen the School Calendar From Two Hundred (200) Days to Not More Than Two Hundred Twenty (220) Class Days." "The August-to-May school calendar has proven to be detrimental to the education sector, with students and teachers struggling with prolonged and intensified exposure to heat during the summer months. This has resulted in decreased productivity, poor student performance, and even health problems," ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro said. Under the proposal, the school year will start on the first Monday of June but not later than the last [...]
Universal health care tops Herbosa’s priorities at DOH
Teodoro Herbosa —LYN RILLON Manila, Philippines — Newly appointed Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa on Monday outlined an eight-point “action agenda” for the Department of Health (DOH) under his term, led by the provision of universal health care. Sworn into office by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on June 6, Herbosa formally took over on Monday from Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, who served as DOH officer in charge for a year. At his first flag-raising ceremony, Herbosa said the other priorities for the DOH would include providing safe, quality and caring service; using technology for more efficient health services; crisis readiness; disease prevention; promotion of mental and emotional health; promotion of the welfare and rights of health workers; and protection against another pandemic. Herbosa noted that providing universal health care [...]
Gov’t looking to surpass 100% rice self-sufficiency: PBBM
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (File photo) Manila, Philippines – The government may surpass 100-percent rice self-sufficiency with its agricultural initiatives, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said in his weekly vlog released Saturday. Marcos said his administration is pushing for various projects and programs that would help Filipinos overcome poverty and hunger, such as farm mechanization to help exceed the government’s rice self-sufficiency target. “Sapat at murang pagkain pa rin ang siyang tanging magpapalaya sa atin sa gutom. Kung kaya’t walang tigil ang paglulunsad ng mga ganitong programa sa ating mga (Having a sufficient and affordable food will free us from hunger. That’s why we are relentless in our efforts to launch programs like this in our) agricultural regions,” he said in the video uploaded on his [...]
PH set to sail ‘Layag-WPS’
P80-m livelihood program to help over 370,000 fishermen in EEZ The Marcos administration will launch its “Layag WPS” project or the Livelihood Activities to Enhance Fisheries Yield and Economic Gains (Layag) from the West Philippine Sea aimed at protecting Filipino fishermen as well as state floating assets amid continuing incursions of Chinese vessels in the area. Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources spokesman Nazario Briguera said the government has about P80 million to give comprehensive support to fishermen in the West Philippine Sea. “BFAR will launch our Layag WPS project in the next few days. We are planning to package this as a special project for this year,” he said in a press briefing on Saturday. Briguera’s announcement came days after a Chinese Navy ship tailed a BFAR multi-mission [...]
AFP deploys marine amphibious force to Palawan
FORCE BUILD-UP. Troops belonging to the Marine Amphibious Ready Unit of the Philippine Marine Corps arrive in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on Saturday morning (June 17, 2023). Their presence will beef up the Armed Forces of the Philippines' strength in the island province. (PNA photo by Issa Reynoso) Puerto Princesa, Palawan – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday deployed Marine Battalion Landing Team 9 (MBLT-9) to Palawan to bolster its military strength in maintaining security, peace, and progress. The troops, forming the first Marine Amphibious Ready Unit (MARU) of the Philippine Marine Corps, arrived in the morning aboard the Philippine Navy vessel BRP Tarlac. With the arrival of MBLT-9, there are now three battalions securing Palawan. The Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 is stationed [...]
House bill seeks anti-bullying policies at workplace
With this in mind, Quezon City Rep. Ralph Tulfo and ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Jocelyn Tulfo filed House Bill 8446, which seeks to institutionalize anti-bullying policies in government and private offices and business establishments. STAR / File Manila, Philippines — For two members of the House of Representatives, anti-bullying policies should not only exist in schools but in workplaces as well. With this in mind, Quezon City Rep. Ralph Tulfo and ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Jocelyn Tulfo filed House Bill 8446, which seeks to institutionalize anti-bullying policies in government and private offices and business establishments. They said in a statement that while Republic Act 10627 or the Anti-Bullying Act has already been enacted, this covers only acts of bullying in elementary and secondary schools. Office bullying, they noted, is commonly overlooked by [...]
PH, US, Japan nat’l security advisors commit to deepen trilateral defense ties in 1st meeting
Metro Manila, Philippines — The national security advisors (NSAs) of the Philippines, the United States, and Japan met for the first time in Tokyo on Friday, reaffirming their countries’ commitment to advance trilateral defense cooperation in response to regional security challenges. In a joint statement, Philippine NSA Eduardo Año, along with his US and Japanese counterparts Jake Sullivan and Akiba Takeo, said they discussed concrete plans to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, “especially given unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion.” Part of their discussions was on the disputed South China Sea, where more tense encounters between Manila and Beijing have occurred in recent months over what the Philippine Coast Guard had described as China’s “aggressive tactics.” Tensions in the East China Sea, [...]
June 28, 2023 a holiday to observe Eid’l Adha
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. declared June 28, 2023, a regular holiday in observance of Eid’l Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice. Marcos made the declaration through Proclamation No. 258. The holiday will be observed throughout the country. Eid'l Adha is one of the two important holidays in the Muslim calendar, the other being Eid'l Fitr, which marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan. During Eid'l Adha, Muslims slaughter sheep, goats, cows, and camels to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son on Allah's command. According to Proclamation No. 258, Eid’l Adha is one of the greatest feasts of Islam being celebrated by worldwide. “Following the 1444 Hijrah Islamic Lunar Calendar, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos has recommended that 28 June 2023, Wednesday, be [...]
European country that eradicated ASF offers help to PH
(Unsplash) The southern European country of Portugal has offered to help the Philippines get rid of the dreaded African Swine Fever (ASF), the Office of House Speaker Martin Romualdez bared on Wednesday, June 14. The offer was relayed to Romualdez by Portuguese non-resident Ambassador to the Philippines, Maria Joào Falcào Poppe Lopes Cardoso, when she paid him a courtesy call at the Manila Golf and Country Club in Makati City. “These propositions are of great mutual interest to both countries,” said Romualdez, who committed to endorse the matter to the concerned agencies of the executive department for appropriate action. Romualdez is also looking at possible initiatives to expand bilateral trade and cooperation with Portugal in areas of technology and defense. According to the envoy, who is the concurrent Portuguese [...]
OCD preparing for long-term Mayon response action
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) is preparing for a long-term response action amid the ongoing unrest of Mayon Volcano which could last for “three months or more.” Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. speaks during a situational briefing on the status of Mayon Volcano and the government's response on June 14, 2023 in Legazpi City, Albay. (Screenshot courtesy of RTVM livestream) This was revealed as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led a situational briefing on the status of Mayon Volcano and the government’s response in Legazpi City, Albay on Wednesday night, June 14. Civil Defense Operations Service Director Cesar Idio said that the OCD identified four tactics to respond to the ongoing restiveness of Mayon. First is to prepare for a long-term response action for three [...]
Phivolcs: Mayon Volcano unrest intensifies
The Mayon volcano, known for its breathtaking beauty and occasional fiery temperament, has recently alerted residents and authorities as it continues exhibiting signs of unrest. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS/Jay Carolino and Arren Christian Ventura) Manila, Philippines — State seismologists on Wednesday said Mayon Volcano’s unrest has intensified after an increase in the number of volcanic earthquakes and rockfall events. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Mayon Volcano recorded seven volcanic earthquakes from 5 a.m. on Tuesday until 5 a.m. on Wednesday and 309 rockfall events. On the other hand, the sulfur dioxide flux decreased to 149 tonnes a day. Previously, Phivolcs said the volcano only saw one volcanic earthquake and 221 rockfall events with 723 tonnes of sulfur dioxide flux. Phivolcs classified Mayon Volcano under Alert Level 3 since last [...]
Chinese Navy ship open for public tour until June 16
VISITING SHIP. The Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy training ship Qi Jiguang docks in Manila at past 9 a.m. on Wednesday (June 14, 2023). Interested visitors only need to present a valid identification document to board the vessel. (Photo courtesy of the Chinese Embassy in Manila MANILA – The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy training ship currently on a goodwill visit in Manila will be open to the public starting Wednesday, the Chinese Embassy in Manila announced. Chinese PLA Navy Training Ship Qi Jiguang docked at Pier 15 in Manila South Harbor on the morning of June 14 and will be in the Philippines until June 17. The embassy said interested visitors only need to present a valid identification document to board the vessel on the [...]
Sara Tops Survey On Successor To Marcos
Former LPGMA party-list congressman and Republic Gas Corp. president Arnel Ty commissioned the national survey conducted last April 15 to April 18. Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte A commissioned survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) has shown Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte as likely to succeed President Marcos when his term ends in 2028. Sen. Raffy Tulfo and former vice president Leni Robredo ranked second and third, respectively, among the 10 names mentioned by survey respondents when asked who they preferred to be the country’s next leader. Marcos was eighth in the list. Former LPGMA party-list congressman and Republic Gas Corp. president Arnel Ty commissioned the national survey conducted last April 15 to April 18. Survey respondents were asked the question “Ayon sa [...]
Marcos: Philippines won’t be subservient to any external force
President Marcos salutes uniformed personnel during a civic and military parade highlighting the celebration of the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila yesterday. Top photo shows employees of various local government units and national government agencies joining the Boy Scouts of the Philippines during the ceremonial flag-raising in Rizal Park Miguel De Guzman MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Philippines will no longer be subservient to any external force, President Marcos said yesterday as the nation marked the country’s 125th Independence Day. Marcos – accompanied by First Lady Liza Marcos and their children Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro, Simon and Vincent – led the Independence Day rites in Rizal Park and Quirino Grandstand in Manila despite light rainfall. In his speech, the President also vowed to address [...]
VP seeks support for education sector
(UPDATE) VICE PRESIDENT Sara Duterte on Monday urged Filipinos to boost support for the education sector to enable the youth "to break free from the dangers of armed struggle" and realize their full potential. "Let us rally behind our education sector to enable our children and youth to break free from the dangers of armed struggle so that they can realize their full potential and serve as agents of positive change in society," she said in her Independence Day speech. Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio. PHOTO BY MIKE DE JUAN The vice president had been vocal about her resolve to help the government eradicate the country's decades-old insurgency problem by preventing so-called communist terrorist groups from recruiting in schools. Duterte, who concurrently serves as Education secretary, said that Filipino [...]
AFP vows to protect PH amid challenges
As the nation commemorates its 125th Independence Day today, June 12, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. vowed that his department will continue to "strive for the protection and betterment of our motherland" amid growing challenges in the Southeast Asian region. "The Department of National Defense is one with Filipinos in the desire to foster a safe, peaceful, united and prosperous Philippines," Teodoro said in Filipino in his Independence Day message. Defense Secretary Gilberto 'Gibo' Teodoro Jr. speaks during his first press briefing at the Department of National Defense headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, on Wednesday, June 7, 2023. PHOTOS BY JOHN ORVEN VERDOTE "May we continue to be worthy heirs of our heroes' legacies and responsible stewards of the next generation's birthright. Amid current and emerging challenges, [...]
BFAR ship goes on Independence Day journey to Pag-asa
BFAR yesterday said the voyage will coincide with the celebration of the 125th year of Philippine Independence. AFP MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)’s offshore civilian patrol vessel will embark on a journey today to Pag-asa Island to provide assistance to fisherfolk amid the tension at the West Philippine Sea (WPS). BFAR yesterday said the voyage will coincide with the celebration of the 125th year of Philippine Independence. According to BFAR, BRP Francisco Dagohoy will depart Oyster Bay Naval Base in Barangay Macarascas, Puerto Princesa for the mission. It will bring fishing gear and post-harvest equipment to the beneficiaries in Pag-asa Island. “The fishing equipment will be turned over to the fishing community in Pag-asa Island on Thursday,” BFAR said. BFAR national director and lawyer [...]
PhilHealth now covers cervical cancer tests
Acting PhilHealth president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Ledesma, Jr. said the agency provides coverage for cervical cancer screening through the Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (Konsulta) primary care package and cervical cancer treatment through the Z Benefits. “We are glad that your PhilHealth has been able to extend medical care benefits to those women suffering from this dreaded disease, Ledesma said. Indeed, the state health insurer is always looking into the welfare of its members and always doing its best to provide financial risk protection whenever and wherever Filipinos need quality health care,” he added. In response to their call to expand coverage of the Z benefits package for cervical cancer and even include HPV Screening in the soon-to-be introduced Konsulta Plus Package, Ledesma said they are determined to [...]
Over 10K families eyed to be evacuated due to restive Mayon Volcano – Albay gov’t
Metro Manila, Philippines— The local government of Albay plans to move out this weekend over 10,000 families or 40,000 locals living inside the danger zone of the erupting Mayon Volcano. The provincial government said 2,094 families or 7,365 individuals are now staying in temporary shelters. In a briefing in Albay on Saturday, Eugene Escobar, research division chief of the Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office, said they plan to evacuate 10,000 families — particularly those living inside the volcano's 6-kilometer permanent danger zone and the 7-kilometer extended danger zone. This covers villages in Camalig, Daraga, Guinobatan, Legazpi, Ligao, Malilipot, Sto. Domingo, and Tabaco. Speaking to CNN Philippines' The Source on Friday, Albay Gov. Edcel Greco Lagman said preemptive evacuation efforts started in Camalig and Guinobatan as they are [...]
PAL to move int’l flights to T1 starting June 16
Philippine Airlines (PAL) international flights will begin to operate at Manila Airport's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 by June 16, 2023, while domestic flights will remain in Terminal 2. The transfer is part of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) terminal reassignment initiative to ease passenger congestion at all terminals. PAL's International flights that will depart from and arrive at Terminal 1 are: Bangkok Beijing Brisbane Busan Fukuoka Guangzhou Tokyo (Haneda) Hong Kong Jakarta Jinjiang Osaka (Kansai) Kuala Lumpur Macau Melbourne Nagoya Tokyo (Narita) Perth Port Moresby Seoul (Incheon) Shanghai Sydney Taipei Xiamen PAL, meanwhile, encouraged passengers to arrive at least four hours before their international flight and three hours for their domestic flights. —VAL, GMA Integrated News
Philippines to begin shipping fresh mangoes to Australia
“Within the week, we are expecting to dispose one million kilos. That’s 100 metric tons,” Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol told reporters. File Photo Manila, Philippines — Beginning this June, the Philippines will ship fresh mangoes to Australia where residents have grown to enjoy the fruit in the past couple of years. The Philippine Embassy in Canberra said shipping arrangements are overseen by Sydney-based e-commerce and logistics provider FastboxPH and cross border trade and fulfillment services 1Export. Also assisting in the efforts are the Philippine Trade and Investment Center, also in Sydney, and the Bureau of Plant Industry-National Plant Quarantine Services Division (BPI-NPQSD) of the Department of Agriculture. According to the BPI-NPQSD, protocols for the export of mangoes to Australia and the Specific Commodity Understanding (SCU) have been in place since 2016. The SCU is an [...]
‘Chedeng’ enhances habagat while moving away from Philippines
Chedeng's center was last located the typhoon's center 990 kilometers away from the east of extreme northern Luzon, moving north-northeastward at 20 km per hour with winds up to 130 kph near the center and gusts of 160 kph. Facebook / PAGASA MANILA, Philippines — Despite moving away from the Philippines and being on track to leave the country’s monitoring area, Typhoon Chedeng (international name: Guchol) is expected to continue enhancing the southwest monsoon in the coming week. According to an advisory issued at 5 a.m., the state weather bureau last located the typhoon's center 990 kilometers away from the east of extreme northern Luzon, moving north-northeastward at 20 km per hour with winds up to 130 kph near the center and gusts of 160 kph. PAGASA weather [...]
Fish prices feared to rise amid BFAR order
Fisheries Administrative Order No. 266 issued in 2020 by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources requires all commercial fishing operators to install a vessel monitoring system (VMS) so that they can be tracked and for them to report their catch. The STAR / Michael Varcas, file Manila, Philippines — The cost of fish could soar to “astronomical” levels should a controversial regulatory measure targeting commercial fishing operators is implemented, an industry leader has warned. Roderic “Jon” Santos, director at Inter-Island and Deep Sea Fishing Aaosocation (ISDFA), was referring to Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) No. 266 issued in 2020 by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), which requires all commercial fishing operators to install a vessel monitoring system (VMS) so that they can be tracked and [...]
‘No reason’ to open peace talks with CPP-NPA — Defense chief
Metro Manila, Philippines — There will be no peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing New People’s Army (NPA) under the leadership of new Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro. "I've never considered it. Why? Because if they want to return to the fold of law, they will be rehabilitated. They will be taught skills. They will be resettled. There is no reason whatsoever to [reopening] talks with the CPP because it undercuts and undermines the democratic process," Teodoro told CNN Philippines' The Final Word on Wednesday. The Defense chief also said the left-leaning group’s ideologies mainly lead to gaining political power, and key members of the CPP could legally run for office if they wanted to. "What we cannot tolerate is legitimizing their [...]
Alert Level 3 raised over Mayon, eruption possible
Mayon volcano spews white smoke in Legaspi City, Albay province on June 7, 2023. AFP / Charism Sayat Manila, Philippines — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raised Thursday the status of Mayon Volcano in Albay to Alert Level 3 and warned there is an “increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption.” “This means that Mayon is exhibiting magmatic eruption of a summit lava dome, with increased chances of lava flows and hazardous pyroclastic density currents affecting the upper to middle slopes of the volcano and of potential explosive activity within weeks or even days,” Phivolcs said in a bulletin. Just this Monday, the institute placed Mayon under Alert Level 2 due to increasing unrest. What to do Phivolcs recommended the evacuation of people living within the six-kilometer permanent [...]
Defense chief to China: Earn our trust
CHINA should earn the trust of Filipinos, newly-appointed Defense Secretary Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. said on Thursday, as the Asian superpower becomes more aggressive in asserting its claims in the South China Sea. Teodoro made the statement after the Philippine Coast Guard questioned China for its alleged "contradicting" words and actions when it comes to the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard shows a green military-grade laser light from a Chinese coast guard ship in the disputed South China Sea, Monday, Feb. 6, 2023. PHOTO BY THE PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD VIA AP "As a stronger country, it has a bigger obligation to be magnanimous and show trust and to earn the trust of the Filipino people by conforming its activities to recognize [...]
SSS eyes higher monthly pension to help retirees build bigger nest egg
Metro Manila, Philippines — The state-run Social Security System (SSS) is crafting a new pension scheme that will allow its members to build a bigger nest egg come their retirement. Once approved by the SSS policy-making body of commissioners, the monthly retirement pension will breach the current ₱20,000 ceiling, its top official said on Tuesday. The plan will not need an executive order from Malacañang or any congressional approval. "The pension will be increased from the current say 5 [thousand pesos], 10 [thousand pesos], to as high as 30,000… 40,000," SSS President Rolando Macasaet told reporters. The SSS has set a timetable of two to three months to roll out the larger pension program, but the chief executive officer clarified that the higher pension scheme is voluntary. "Voluntary lang [...]
BI: New immigration law needed to digitalize, improve services
MODERNIZING IMMIGRATION. Bureau of Immigration (BI) Deputy Spokesperson Melvin Mabulac expresses his gratitude to the lower house for approving the BI Modernization Act on its third and final reading during the Laging Handa public briefing on Tuesday (June 6, 2023). If the bill shall be passed into law, he said it will help the BI to digitalize and improve its services. (Screengrab) MANILA – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Tuesday underscored the need for the BI modernization bill to be passed into law to further digitalize and improve its services. The BI made the remark after the House of Representatives approved on its third and final reading House Bill No. 8203 or the proposed BI Modernization Act. During the Laging Handa public briefing, BI deputy spokesperson [...]
Gibo Teodoro, Ted Herbosa named as DND, DOH secretaries
Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. and Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday appointed lawyer Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. as Secretary of the Department of National Defense (DND) and Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa as Secretary of the Department of Health (DOH). The appointments of Teodoro and Herbosa were announced after President Marcos met with Teodoro and DND Senior Undersecretary Carlito Galvez, and Herbosa and Health Undersecretary Ma. Rosario Vergeire in separate meetings in Malacañang on Monday afternoon. Teodoro was the former congressman of the First District of Tarlac and also served as the Secretary of Defense during the administration of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. He also served as the chairperson of the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) during his tenure as Secretary of Defense. [...]
LPA becomes storm Chedeng
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said that despite its intensification, Chedeng is unlikely to directly bring heavy rainfall over any part of the country in the next few days. PAGASA MANILA — Tropical cyclone Chedeng could intensify into a storm over Tuesday night and Wednesday morning and may continue to intensify into a typhoon by tomorrow. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said that despite its intensification, Chedeng is unlikely to directly bring heavy rainfall over any part of the country in the next few days. Chedeng was monitored 1,150 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon and is almost stationary. It was packing maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 70 kph. PAGASA said [...]
Marcos launches eGov Super App
Mobile platform to boost ease of doing business, lessen corruption in gov’t MOBILE ONE-STOP-SHOP. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leads the launching of the eGov Super App at the Palace on Friday, June 2, 2023. In his speech, Mr. Marcos said the online platform would eliminate corruption and make public transactions easier and more convenient. Joey Razon The government on Friday launched the eGov Super App, a one-stop-shop platform for national and local government services that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said will provide the public with hassle-free transactions and curb corruption. “This is what we are pushing for. This is what e-governance is about — to bring it all together, to make it simple and available and accessible,” President Marcos said as he congratulated the Department of Information and [...]
China warns ‘NATO-like’ alliances could lead to conflict in Asia-Pacific
US President Joe Biden (C) speaks alongside British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (R) and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (L) at a press conference during the AUKUS summit on March 13, 2023, at Naval Base Point Loma in San Diego California. AUKUS is a trilateral security pact announced on September 15, 2021, for the Indo-Pacific region. AFP / Jim Watson SINGAPORE — China's defense minister warned Sunday against establishing NATO-like military alliances in the Asia-Pacific, saying they would plunge the region into a "whirlpool" of conflict. Li Shangfu's comments came a day after US and Chinese military vessels sailed close to each other in the flashpoint Taiwan Strait, an incident that provoked anger from both sides. "Attempts to push for NATO-like (alliances) in the Asia-Pacific is a way of [...]
PH receives first batch of donated bivalent vaccines
THE Philippine government, through the Department of Health (DoH), over the weekend received more than 390,000 doses of bivalent Covid-19 vaccines from the Lithuanian government. Airline personnel unload the shipment of donated bivalent vaccines. Contributed photo The cargo arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) with DoH Assistant Secretary Leonita Gorgolon, representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and officials from the Lithuanian Consulate and European Union present for the turnover ceremony. The Health department said the donated bivalent vaccines will boost the Philippines' campaign to control the spread of infection. Bivalent vaccines provide better protection against the original Covid-19 strain, SARS-CoV-2, and Omicron sub variants BA.4 and BA.5. "It is with great pleasure that we have received such generous donations from the Lithuanian government and [...]
PH eyes more allied nations’ participation in Balikatan
Metro Manila, Philippines— The Philippines is thinking of making the annual Balikatan exercises with the United States a multilateral event to include other allies, Defense chief Carlito Galvez Jr. said on Saturday. In the past years, smaller groups of soldiers from Australia have joined Philippine and US troops in the joint military training, and delegations from other countries, such as Japan, have been sent as observers. The Philippines has a visiting forces agreement with only two countries – the US and Australia. “We really explore possibly expanding the bilateral Balikatan exercises into a multilateral exercise,” Galvez said during the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-la Dialogue, an inter-governmental security conference held in Singapore. “In the future, we might be expanding it with other allied nations,” he [...]
PH to launch 2 cubesats this weekend
(Photo grabbed from STAMINA4SPACE Facebook page) MANILA – The country's Maya-5 and Maya-6 cube satellites (cubesats) will be launched to the International Space Station this weekend, the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) shared on its Facebook page Friday. The launch is scheduled on June 4 at 12:34 a.m. (PST) or June 3 at 2:34 p.m. (EDT), aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9. Both cubesats were developed under the STAMINA4Space (Space Technology and Applications Mastery, Innovation and Advancement) Program through the support of the Department of Science and Technology, UP Diliman, PhilSA, and Kyushu Institute of Technology of Japan. According to the STAMINA4Space website, Maya-5 has the same mission payload with Maya-2; while Maya-6 has the experimental on-board computer mission payload that controls the attitude determination and control system and hentenna mission. Launched [...]
US says talks with China ‘essential’ to curb chance of conflict
Dialogue between the United States and China is “essential” and will help avoid miscalculations that could lead to conflict, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Saturday, after Beijing declined an invitation for a formal meeting between him and his Chinese counterpart. Austin and Li Shangfu shook hands and briefly spoke for the first time at the opening dinner of the Shangri-La Dialogue defence summit in Singapore the night before, but the interaction fell short of the Pentagon’s hopes for a more substantive exchange. The US defence chief is on a tour of Asia that previously took him to Japan and will also include a visit to India — part of a push by top American officials to shore up alliances and partnerships in the region to help counter Beijing. [...]
Robredo’s Angat Buhay launches website
FORMER vice president Maria Leonor "Leni" Robredo's nongovernment organization (NGO) has launched its official website. In an announcement on its social media platforms on Friday, the Angat Buhay NGO announced that it now has a website that can be accessed at angatbuhay.ph. "Angat Pinas Inc. (commonly known as Angat Buhay) is a Filipino non-profit organization that aims to empower Filipinos to become communities of active citizens by mobilizing the largest volunteer network in implementing Bayanihan programs," the organization was described on the site. Included are the organization's mission and vision, as well as its advocacy pillars, namely public education, public health, disaster relief and rehabilitation, community engagement and empowerment. "Angat Buhay operates nationwide, implementing programs, projects, and activities with partners and volunteers from different parts of Luzon, Visayas and [...]
Philippines may have up to 15 cyclones until October, PAGASA says
Vehicles pass along a flooded street as a cyclist makes their way through the water in Manila on October 29, 2022, following heavy rain brought by Tropical Storm Nalgae. Severe Tropical Storm Nalgae whipped the Philippines on October 29 after unleashing flash floods and landslides that officials said left at least 45 people dead. AFP / Jam Sta Rosa MANILA, PHILIPPINES— Around 10 to 15 tropical cyclones may enter or form within the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) from June to October 2023, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration reported on Saturday. Weather specialist Benison Estareja shared the prediction in a public weather forecast issued on Saturday, a day after PAGASA declared the start of the rainy season in the Philippines. According to Estareja, some of the cyclones may [...]
China willing to discuss territorial dispute with PH, says official
TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan: China is willing to discuss with the Philippines the ongoing dispute in the South China Sea without interference from outsiders, its Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong said. Sun made the statement in a meeting with Cagayan Gov. Manuel Mamba in Beijing on May 26, 2023. Mamba himself disclosed this on Saturday during an interview with The Manila Times following the arrival of participants in the first leg of a nationwide peace caravan here in the capital city of Cagayan. China’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sun Weidong AFP FILE PHOTO China and the Philippines have conflicting claims over parts of the South China Sea which Manila calls the West Philippine Sea as it falls within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Philippines has long insisted [...]
Thai firm to invest $2.5B in agri technology devt
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed the commitment of a Bangkok-based firm to pour around $2.5 billion in agricultural technology development in the country. The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said that officials of Thailand's Charoen Pokphand Group (C.P. Group), led by its chairman Soopakij Chearavanont, paid a visit to Malacañang last Tuesday to discuss their company's plans to bring in new technology meant to boost the local agriculture industry. The C.P. Group plans to invest $2.5 billion from 2023 to 2027 for technology to be used in farming swine ($1.3 billion), poultry ($280 million), shrimp ($800 million), and other food products ($120 million). "We're very impressed with the new technologies that you use. I remember you told me that each plant farm you build is different from the last one [...]
US, Japan coast guard ships arrive for trilateral maritime exercises off Bataan
This handout photo from the Philippine Coast Guard shows USCGC Stratton and Japan Coast Guard ship Akitsushima at the Port of Manila on June 1, 2023. Philippine Coast Guard Facebook page MANILA, Philippines — Ships of the US and Japanese coast guards sailed into Manila on Thursday for joint exercises with their Filipino counterparts on maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, and environmental protection. The Philippine Coast Guard said in a statement that Akitsushima (PLH-32) and USCGC Stratton (WMSL-752) arrived at the Port of Manila on Thursday morning for the week-long Kaagapay Trilateral Exercise, which will be held in waters off Bataan. The ships were welcomed to Manila by coast guard personnel waving flags of the US and of Japan. The PCG will be deploying BRP Melchora Aquino [...]
‘Betty’ leaves PAR
This satellite photo taken 5:21 p.m. on June 1 shows the Philippines as Severe Tropical Storm Betty continues to move farther away from the country. RAMMB MANILA, Philippines — Severe Tropical Storm Betty exited the Philippine area of responsibility on Thursday afternoon, state weather bureau PAGASA said. In its 5:00 p.m. bulletin, PAGASA said Betty was last spotted at 685 km northeast of Itbayat, Batanes, packing maximum sustained winds of 95 kph near center and gustiness of up to 115 kph. Betty continues to weaken and may be downgraded to tropical storm category on Saturday. It is moving north northeastward at 15 kph. While outside Philippine jurisdiction, Betty is forecasted to continue to gradually accelerate northeastward until Friday morning before it turns east northeastward over the waters near [...]
69% of Filipino adults find job hunting difficult now – SWS
Metro Manila, Philippines — Around 69% of Filipino adults said they find it hard to get a job these days, a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey has reported. According to the SWS survey released on Thursday, only 11% of the respondents said job hunting is easy now. It also found that 16% said it was neither easy nor hard and 4% said they don't know. "Finding a job has always been hard since 2011," the pollster said in its graphic card. Meanwhile, half of the respondents were found to be optimistic that that there will be more jobs in the next 12 months. The SWS reported that 26% believed there will be no changes while 10% said there will be fewer work vacancies. The remaining 14% said they do [...]
Senate set to approve 4 admin priority measures
The Senate is expected to approve at least four key priority measures of the Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) days before the 19th Congress adjourns next week. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, in a statement, said the priority measures are the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act, the Regional Specialty Centers Act, and the Maharlika Investment Fund Act, which has been certified as urgent by Malacañang. Apart from the said priority bills, the Estate Tax Amnesty Act is also set to be approved on third reading, Zubiri said. “With the Senate being composed of twenty-four republics, we have to hear everyone’s perspectives out, toward the betterment of our measures. Thankfully, we have all developed a great working relationship with one another, and we have been able to give due [...]
Signals raised as Betty maintains strength
Image from Pagasa shows the path of Super Typhoon Betty as of yesterday. STAR / File MANILA — The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has started to raise tropical cyclone wind signals over parts of northern Luzon as Super Typhoon Betty makes its way closer to the country. The state weather bureau said that Betty (international name Mawar) was monitored 1,055 km east of Central Luzon, carrying maximum sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 230 km/h. It will remain as a super typhoon over the weekend and short-term intensification was not ruled out last night. Signal No. 1 has been raised over Batanes, Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, Isabela, Apayao, Ilocos Norte, northern and central Abra, Kalinga, eastern [...]
Economic development in Asia still faces many challenges, China minister says
Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao says the Asia-Pacific region has many disturbances and challenges when it comes to economic and trade development. REUTERS/Florence Lo/File Photo BEIJING - Economic and trade development in the Asia-Pacific still faces many disturbances and challenges, China's commerce minister Wang Wentao said. Wang made the comments at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) conference in Detroit, where he met with several leaders and exchanged views on multilateral and bilateral economic and trade issues amid wider global trade rifts and uncertainties. Wang said he recognized the difficulties faced by the region, but added that China, as a major developing country, was willing to make due contributions. "The Asia-Pacific region has always been the region with the most growth vitality, development potential and economic resilience in the [...]
G7, QUAD back Marcos call for ‘rules-based order’ in Indo-Pacific
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s position to adhere to rules-based international order in the South China Sea and to maintain peace and stability in the region has earned support from the member states of Group of Seven (G7) and Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), Malacañang said. The expression of support was relayed to Presidential Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil by Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko through a letter sent to her on May 20. Garafil said the letter contains Koshikawa's report on the outcome documents of the recently-concluded 2023 G7 and QUAD summits hosted by Japan. In the letter, Koshikawa reported the fruitful culmination of the twin summits with "consequential decisions encompassing matters related to the Philippines." Koshikawa said that the G7 leaders reaffirmed their determination to meet global challenges [...]
Signal No. 1 up in parts of Cagayan, Isabela as Super Typhoon Betty keeps strength
Metro Manila, Philippines— The state weather bureau on Saturday morning raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 over parts of Cagayan, including Babuyan and Camiguin Islands, and parts of Isabela as Super Typhoon Betty maintained its strength. In its 11 a.m. update, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Signal No. 1 – an alert for “strong winds” – has been hoisted over the eastern portion of Cagayan, particularly Santa Ana, Gonzaga, Lal-Lo, Gattaran, Baggao, Peñablanca, Santa Teresita, Buguey, and Babuyan and Camiguin Islands. In Isabela, the affected areas are the eastern portion of the province, namely Maconacon, Divilacan, Dinapigue, Palanan, San Mariano, Ilagan City, Tumauini, San Pablo, and Cabagan. Signal No. 1 means there is minimal to minor threat to life and [...]
Super Typhoon Mawar even stronger as it roars closer to PAR border
MANILA, Philippines — Super Typhoon Mawar has slightly intensified as it advances closer to the border of the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) on Friday noon, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said. Mawar packs a mean punch with 215 kilometers per hour (kph) winds near its core, with gusts charging at 260 kph. Currently positioned 1,705 kilometers east of Southeastern Luzon, the typhoon is moving westward at 20 kph. Upon entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility, Betty will be locally renamed. The weather bureau forecasts that Mawar will enter the PAR as a super typhoon between Friday night and Saturday morning, moving west-northwest towards Luzon by Monday or Tuesday. Mawar is unlikely to make landfall, but a slight change in its course could put northern [...]
PH, US to construct 14 projects in four new EDCA locations
The Philippines and the United States are eyeing 14 projects on the four new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Thursday. “On the new sites, identified na rin yung mga projects to be constructed in those areas. So we’re looking (at) mess hall, rehabilitation of runway, construction of additional billeting facilities, acquisition of generators, installation of electrical system, (and) construction of pier with water supply,” AFP spokesman Col. Medel Aguilar said in an interview. The four additional EDCA locations were the Naval Base Camilo Osias in Sta. Ana, Cagayan; Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo Cagayan; Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; and Balabac Island in Palawan. Also included in the proposed projects are the construction of humanitarian and assistance disaster [...]
Gov’t launches free ‘The Philippine Gazette’ newspaper
THE PHILIPPINE GAZETTE. “The Philippine Gazette” was launched by the Presidential Communications Office’s (PCO) attached agency, the Bureau of Communications Services (BCS), on Wednesday (May 24, 2023) to increase public awareness about the Marcos administration’s policies and programs. The PCO-BCS led the free distribution of the Philippine Gazette in select areas in Metro Manila. (Photo courtesy of the PCO) MANILA – The Marcos administration has launched “The Philippine Gazette,” a printed newspaper that will be distributed to the public for free to raise awareness about its policies and programs. In a Facebook post on Thursday, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said its attached agency, the Bureau of Communications Services (BCS), led the free distribution of the Philippine Gazette on Wednesday. “Inilunsad ng Presidential [...]
PH to get $4-B grant from ADB for socio-economic, infra dev’t
TOP SOURCE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. meets with Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masatsugu Asakawa at the regional development bank's headquarters in Mandaluyong City on Monday (May 23, 2023). The ADB was the Philippines’ top source of active Official Development Assistance among 20 development partners in 2022. (Photo from Office of the President FB page) MANILA – The Philippines will receive a USD4-billion funding grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for the implementation of the Marcos administration's socio-economic and infrastructure development plans for 2023, Malacañang announced on Tuesday. This developed after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa at the regional development bank's headquarters in Mandaluyong City on Monday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil said in a statement. [...]
ES: Sugar imports aboveboard amid ‘very alarming’ tight supply
SUGAR PROBE. Agriculture Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban (right) is joined by NEDA Director-General Arsenio Balisacan and Executive Secretart Lucas Bersamin (left) during a Senate probe on the sugar importation order. Lino Santos Agriculture Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban on Tuesday told a Senate hearing that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the importation of sugar “through selected importers.” But when pressed repeatedly by senators, Panganiban backtracked and clarified: “Let’s import. Yan lang ang sinabi sa akin (That’s only what he told me).” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who was present in the same hearing, told senators he was the one who approved the importation as the President was busy at a foreign trip at that time. “There was guidance from the President. But I confirmed that I was the one who [...]
SOGIESC equality bill gets House panel nod
Metro Manila, Philippines— The House Committee on Women and Gender Equality has approved the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, or Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC) bill. The panel's approval was confirmed by Gabriela party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas on Tuesday after the committee deliberated on the technical working group report. The report consolidated House Bills No. 222, 460, 3418, 3702, 4277, 5551, 6003, and 7036, and other proposed measures aiming to ban discrimination of people on the basis of their SOGIESC. "This is a step towards the long-overdue enactment of legislation which will prohibit all forms of discrimination and harassment against the LGBTQIA+ community," Brosas said in a statement. "Naninindigan kami na karapatan ng bawat miyembro ng LGBTQIA+ na makatamasa ng pantay na karapatan sa edukasyon, trabaho, serbisyong kalusugan, [...]
PAGASA: Super Typhoon Mawar less likely to make landfall in PH
Metro Manila, Philippines— While Super Typhoon Mawar is less likely to make landfall in the country, storm signals may still be raised once it enters the country’s weather monitoring area, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Wednesday. “Sa ating pagtaya po nananatiling mababa ang tsansa, o less likely, na mag-landfall ito sa anumang bahagi ng ating bansa pero patuloy po nating mino-monitor dahil posible rin tayong magtaas ng mga warning signal,” PAGASA weather specialist Ana Clauren-Jorda told CNN Philippines. [Translation: Based on our projection, it is less likely to make landfall in any part of the country but we are monitoring because we may still raise warning signals.] The state weather bureau said Mawar was last located 2,215 kilometers east of Visayas, packing maximum [...]
No survivors in Chinese fishing vessel capsizing — initial probe
This photo shows Lu Peng Yuan Yu 028. North Pacific Fisheries Commission website BEIJING, China — There were no survivors after a fishing vessel carrying 39 crew members from China, Indonesia and the Philippines capsized last week in the Indian Ocean, according to an initial government probe released on Tuesday. The Chinese vessel overturned on May 16, with 17 Chinese, 17 Indonesians and five Filipinos on board. "From an analysis of the ship's capsizing... it is preliminarily judged that there are no survivors from the ship," Beijing's transport ministry said in an official social media post. The boat capsized within Australia's vast search-and-rescue region, 5,000 kilometres (2,700 nautical miles) to the west of Perth, the state capital of Western Australia. Chinese state media reported on Monday that seven bodies [...]
‘Destab moves nipped in the bud’
House of Representatives Speaker, Martin Romualdez. PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said on Sunday order has been restored in the House of Representatives, and that "moves to destabilize" the chamber had been "nipped in the bud." "The House of the People is in order. This same level of order is what allowed us to approve on third and final reading at least 29 of the 42 bills that comprise the legislative agenda of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.," Romualdez said in a statement. Last week, the House elected Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio "Dong" Gonzales Jr. as senior deputy speaker, replacing Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo who was relegated to deputy speaker. The shakeup followed reports that Arroyo was [...]
PH insufficient in rice, other food commodities
A worker carries sacks of sugar at a retail store in Marikina City, on Tuesday, May 16 2023. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the importation of an additional 150,000 metric tons of sugar on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, to stabilize prices and bolster the nation's supply. PHOTO BY JOHN ORVEN VERDOTE The Philippines has not achieved sufficiency in rice, onion, chicken, and other commodities such as corn, coffee, garlic, peanut and mongo, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said. The country, however, has a surplus of bananas, pineapple, mango, shrimps and prawns, and crabs, which are ideal for export, the FAO said in its Rapid Assessment of the Philippine Agri-food Systems. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said the estimated palay production for January to [...]
Restoring forests holds the key to a sustainable future
Preserving the world forests will generate new jobs and mitigate climate change. Revitalizing degraded forest is critical for meeting the United Nations target of increasing global forest area by 3 per cent, in time for the 2030 deadline. Doing so would also help countries create new jobs, prevent soil erosion, protect watersheds, mitigate climate change and safeguard biodiversity. It is estimated that two billion hectares of degraded land worldwide could potentially be restored. The sustainable management of the world’s forests took center stage last week at the UN Forum on Forests at the UN Headquarters in New York. Forests cover 31 per cent of the Earth’s land area, contain over 80 per cent of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity and store more carbon than the entire atmosphere. “Forests are one [...]
PH still open to exploration of untapped gas fields
MALAMPAYA GAS FIELD. The Malampaya gas field in Palawan. There are still many potential areas in the country, not just Malampaya, that have huge gas deposits, Energy Undersecretary Alessandro Sales said in a news forum in Quezon City on Saturday (May 20, 2023). (File photo courtesy of Wescom) MANILA – The Philippines is open to exploring the potential gas fields that remain untapped, the Department of Energy (DOE) said on Saturday. In a bid to meet the energy requirements, DOE Undersecretary Alessandro Sales said the doors are still open for investors interested in tapping the country's potential power resources. "Ang more important thing dito ay 'yung signaling natin din, that ang oil and gas exploration po sa Pilipinas ay bukas (The more important thing is the [...]
Fire razes Manila Central Post Office
(photo: Manila Fire Station) Metro Manila, Philippines — Fire hit the Manila Central Post Office in the country's capital late Sunday night. The Manila Fire Station said the fire started past 11 p.m. Sunday. It was placed on the highest fire alarm level, which is general alarm, at 5:45 a.m. Monday. Mark Laurente, chief of staff of the post master general, said letters and parcels are stored in the central post office. He assured that national identification cards are safe as those are stored in another city.
TS outside PAR could intensify into super typhoon next week, warns PAGASA
Metro Manila, Philippines— A tropical storm (TS) east of Mindanao could intensify into a super typhoon and enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by next week, the state weather bureau warned on Saturday. The storm was last spotted 2,525 kilometers east of Mindanao, outside of the PAR, and embedded along the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) – an area where the northeast and southeast trade winds converge to form clouds and rains, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said. “Hindi natin inaalis yung possibility na lalakas pa ito [We are not ruling out the possibility that it will intensify] either by typhoon or super typhoon,” PAGASA weather specialist Benison Estareja said. The storm was packing maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour (kph) [...]
PH Navy unveils warfare tools, tech glitch mars SAM test
Inset photo shows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., joined by Speaker Martin Romualdez (left) and Defense acting Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. on board BRP Davao Del Sur to witness the naval exercises. Ver Noveno and Joey Razon President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., onboard the BRP Davao del Sur, witnessed a simulation exercise of the Philippine Navy that showcases tbe country’s latest warfare naval assets on Friday off the coast of San Antonio, Zambales. A technical problem with a target drone, however, prompted the Naby to scrub the demonstration of the country’s first surface-to-air missile system. “I am very happy to be able to join the brave men and women of our Philippine Navy on this important day as we conduct [a] test fire [of] our country’s first surface-to-air [...]
AFP seeks additional funds to improve Pag-asa Island security
The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Thursday asked the government for funds to better secure Pag-asa Island against hovering foreign ships and planes in the area. advertisement According to a "24 Oras" report by Mav Gonzalez, the Senate Committee on National Defense and the AFP Chief of Staff inspected Pag-asa Island to determine what else should be funded. About 4-5 Chinese fishing vessels approach Pagasa Island every week in addition to the Chinese Coast Guard, said the Philippine Navy. “As much as possible kung tayo unang nakakita, we conduct initial challenge. Our ships, sea captains, and pilots are advised to keep a safe distance. We document all the exchanges of challenges to have references for filing of diplomatic protests," said Naval Force Commander Commodore Alan Javier. Among the [...]
China calls PH an important partner
Beijing called Manila an "important partner" amid calls from some senators to investigate the performance of the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) which is partly run by China. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Wang Wenbin made the remark when asked to comment on the statement of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that he would investigate the NGCP ownership. NGCP is 40 percent owned by the State Grid Corp. of China while the remaining 60 percent belongs to a group of Filipino businessmen led by Henry Sy Jr. and Robert Coyiuto Jr. "The Philippines is a friendly neighbor and important partner of China," Wang said in a press briefing on Wednesday. The Chinese Embassy in Manila shared his statement. "China supports Chinese companies in [...]
Agri trader tagged as alleged operator of ‘biggest onion cartel’ in PH
Metro Manila, Philippines — After nine hearings of the House of Representative's Committee on Agriculture and Food, two ranking lawmakers have zeroed in on an agricultural trader previously tagged in the smuggling of basic commodities as the supposed operator of the "biggest onion cartel" in the country. Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo, vice chairperson of the House Appropriations Committee, alleged that Lilia "Lea" Cruz engineered the artificial spike in onion prices late last year until the early part of 2023 through companies involved in all levels of the value chain. Cruz established the Philippine Vegetable Importers, Exporters and Vendors Association (PhilVIEVA), which Quimbo claimed is being used for operating the alleged onion cartel. "Leah Cruz operates the biggest onion cartel in the country. She does this through [...]
Sara Duterte leaves Lakas-CMD, hints at ‘political powerplay’
Metro Manila, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte has resigned irrevocably as member of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD), dubbed as the ruling political party in the House of Representatives. Duterte, who serves as the party’s chairperson, said the resignation is effective Friday. She did not provide a specific reason for her decision to quit the party, but hinted at "powerplay" as the rationale behind it. “I am here today because of the trust of the Filipino people...This cannot be poisoned by political toxicity or undermined by execrable political powerplay,” Duterte said, without elaborating further. Last February, Duterte and House Speaker Martin Romualdez—a first cousin of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.—reassumed their roles as chairman and president of the Lakas-CMB, respectively. “I am grateful to all the [...]
Australia unveils defense, ODA packages for PH
Australia on Thursday disclosed a package of new maritime cooperation initiatives for the Philippines, including the turnover of drone equipment and other technology to strengthen the country’s maritime domain awareness, as Canberra sees Manila as a “vital security partner” in maintaining a “peaceful, stable and prosperous” Indo-Pacific region. This came after Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong held a meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on how to elevate both countries’ partnership from “comprehensive” to “strategic.” “We discussed today ways in which we will enhance our cooperation (and) this includes Australia providing drone equipment, training and other technology to strengthen your Coast Guard in maritime domain awareness and protection capabilities,” she said in a press conference. Wong also disclosed that Australia would provide AU$89.9 [...]
Marcos eyes revival of Philsucor
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. graces the 72nd anniversary celebration of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) at its central office in Batasan Road, Quezon City on January 31, 2023. STAR / Michael Varcas MANILA — President Marcos is eyeing the revival of the Philippine Sugar Corp. (PHILSUCOR), a state-run firm that provided financing to facilities used in the manufacture and distribution of sugar and its by-products, which was abolished during the previous administration. In a video message released by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Marcos said revitalizing PHILSUCOR was one of the suggestions made during his meeting yesterday with stakeholders of the sugar industry in Malacañang. “It’s financing for farmers, especially for cooperatives and farmers’ associations. They were not able to work that much [...]
LPA spotted outside PAR
MANILA – A low-pressure area (LPA) was spotted 2,200 km. east of Mindanao, outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), the weather bureau said Thursday. (Image courtesy of PAGASA) The LPA, which would likely develop into a weak tropical depression in the next two to three days, is forecast to enter the PAR next week, Benison Estareja of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said. "But this will remain far from the landmass and unlikely to directly affect the country's weather condition," Estareja said, noting that the LPA could change its track. Meanwhile, high chances of thunderstorms are expected over the western section of Luzon, and the Visayas due to the southwesterly wind flow on Thursday. The rest of the country will continue to experience [...]
‘Onion prices could spike anew to P500-P700/kilo’
A porter pushes a cart loaded with red onions in Binondo, Manila on May 16, 2023. STAR / Ernie Penaredondo MANILA — Farmers’ group Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) warned yesterday that the retail price of onions could reach as high as P500 to P700 per kilo amid the abrupt spike in the cost of the bulbs. In an interview with The STAR, SINAG executive director Jayson Cainglet said the upward trend in the retail prices of onions will continue as prices have reached as high as P200 per kilo. Cainglet added that the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) should inspect cold storage facilities to determine inventories. He also noted that the DA and BPI have yet to issue an actual [...]
Coming years ‘critical’ to slash plastic pollution
This illustration picture shows a plastic bag drifting in the botnia Gulf on May 3, 2023 near Pietarsaari, during the late spring as the sea-ice is slowly melting. Olivier MORIN / AFP PARIS— The world must halve single-use plastics and slash throwaway consumption to stem the tide of environmental pollution, according to a UN report on Tuesday that warns the next few years are critical. Concern is growing about the impacts of plastics, with microplastic fragments found from the deepest oceans trenches to the top of Mount Everest. In humans, they have been detected in blood, breast milk and placentas. The report by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) comes two weeks before negotiators from nearly 200 countries meet in Paris for a new round [...]
China towing ship, 2 others parked in Ayungin Shoal
According to Marine AIS (Automatic Identification System), a huge Chinese towing ship with shipboard number 19016 is parked in northwest side of Ayungin Shoal, waiting for further instructions. It is accompanied by two Chinese fishing vessels. A China Coast Guard ship is also nearby. China claims that the Philippine retired warship BRP Sierra Madre illegally grounded and occupied the Shoal since 1999. The Philippines maintains that Ayungin Shoal is part of the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf of the country.
Transport groups slam exorbitant LTO service fees on LTMS platform
Drivers and operators belonging to the National Public Transport Coalition (NPTC) on Sunday hit the new foreign-made information technology platform of the Land Transportation Office’s Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) for charging “enormous service fees” to the motoring public. At a media interview, NPTC national convenor Ariel Lim said the LTO charges drivers, vehicle owners, auto dealers and operators a minimum of P75 per transaction when paying through the LTMS. The service fees are allocated for the online portal’s accredited payment gateway, Paynamics. Instead of providing convenience, the LTMS has become an added financial burden to the motoring public, especially to the low-income public utility vehicle drivers, Lim lamented. Since the government owns the LTMS, the public must not be charged additional fees, he said, citing the system could [...]
P2,000 fertilizer eyed by DA overpriced?
Rosendo So, president of the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG), warned of another fertilizer scam in the offing as he criticized the timing of Memorandum Order No. 32, issued by DA Undersecretary for rice industry development Leocadio Sebastian. Philippine Star / Kriz John Rosales MANILA — The Department of Agriculture has come under fire after a farmers’ group revealed that the biofertilizer being pushed by the DA for distribution is overpriced at P2,000 per bag as the University of Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) offers it at only P500 per bag. Rosendo So, president of the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG), warned of another fertilizer scam in the offing as he criticized the timing of Memorandum Order No. 32, issued by DA Undersecretary for rice industry development Leocadio [...]
PCG installs 5 sovereign markers in ‘critical areas’ in WPS
Metro Manila – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has installed five additional sovereign markers, or navigational buoys, in “critical areas” in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the agency said Sunday. Sovereign markers were installed in Patag Island, Kota Island, Panata Islands, fishing ground in Balagtas, and Juan Felipe Reef from May 10 to 12. It plans to install six more this year. In May 2022, the PCG installed five sovereign markers near the Likas Island, Parola Island, Lawak Island, and Pag-asa Island. According to the PCG, the installation of buoys with the Philippine flag signifies the country’s sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). “It underscores our adherence to global statutes, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which acknowledges coastal [...]
VP Sara: Health system should be strengthened
Vice President Sara Duterte on Thursday stressed the importance of strengthening the country's public health system to provide Filipinos, especially the poor, access to medical services. In her keynote speech at the Philippine College of Surgeons Midyear Convention in Davao City, Duterte said that the country's journey throughout the pandemic was an "eye-opener" to put premium priority on public health. She said that the unavailability of basic health services in marginalized communities inspired the Office of the Vice President to establish a medical assistance program. "I learned that there should be satellite offices in different areas to ensure that our countrymen would receive our help," Duterte said. The OVP has eight satellite offices outside Metro Manila. These are in the cities of Cauayan, Isabela, Dagupan, Bacolod, Tacloban, Cebu, Davao, [...]
LTO to simplify driver’s license exams to combat fixers
LTO chief Assistant Secretary Jose Arturo "Jay Art" Tugade (PNA photo) MANILA – The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is looking to shorten its driver’s licensure exams in a bid to simplify transactions and lessen the public’s reliance on fixers. In a statement on Thursday, LTO chief Assistant Secretary Jose Arturo “Jay Art” Tugade said “lengthy procedures” is one of the reasons why many license applicants resort to paying for fixers -- third-party unauthorized agents who process LTO transactions for a fee. “The instruction I gave to our committee was to compress the exam. This exam reportedly takes about an hour. The agency is now studying how to shorten the exam. I believe that by reducing the exam duration, our applicants will not seek out fixers and [...]
China opposes ‘meddling’ in disputed waters amid PH-US defense guidelines
Metro Manila— The Chinese government expressed its strong opposition to what it called “meddling” in the South China Sea issue following the release of Philippines-US bilateral defense guidelines, seeing it to inflict “harm” on its sovereignty rights and interests. “China firmly opposes any country’s move to meddle in the South China Sea issue to harm China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests by citing the guidelines,” its Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told during a press conference Thursday when asked for his comment on the issued defense guidelines. She also claimed that the “concerted efforts” of nations in the region have “maintained overall stability” in the contested waterway, despite earlier reports of bullying and aggressive tactics from some Asian countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Just [...]
Attacks vs. US, PH ships, aircraft in Pacific, SCS to trigger MDT
US Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III (left) and Department of National Defense chief Carlito Galvez Jr. (right) (File photo) MANILA – The Bilateral Defense Guidelines between the United States and the Philippines have emphasized that an attack in the Pacific, including any part of the South China Sea against public vessels, aircraft or armed forces of the two nations will result in the invocation of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) commitments. "The guidelines reaffirm that an armed attack in the Pacific, including anywhere in the South China Sea, on either of their public vessels, aircraft, or armed forces – which includes their Coast Guards – would invoke mutual defense commitments under Articles IV and V of the 1951 US-Philippines MDT," it added. The guidelines were established on [...]
The 1st West Philippine Sea Festival officially opens
KALAYAAN, PALAWAN— The first West Philippine Sea Festival officially opens Thursday, May 4. Torch parade was held at 5 o’clock in the morning where the local government units, residents of Brgy. Pag-asa, Western Command personnel, and tourists joined. The parade was followed by performances of the different departments of the local government, honoring rites at Coloma Shrine, and opening ceremony. Honorable Mayor Roberto Del Mundo, Honorable Vice Mayor Beltzasar Alindogan, WESCOM Island Commander Lt. Rey Tibay, and Chief of Police Alfredo Baclagon were present during the event. Photos from Municipal Government of Kalayaan Province of Palawan, Philippines Facebook page/ Jeorgie Erika Villamor Yesterday, kick-off activities were held such as the 2nd Kalayaan Mayor’s Cup Fishing Tournament and trainings on t-shirt printing, massage, souvenir making, and immersion [...]
Labor Day woes: Flights canceled, delayed due to NAIA Terminal 3 power outage
As of 8:10 am on May 1, 40 flights have already been canceled due to the power outage at NAIA Terminal 3, with more expected to be delayed MANILA – The Philippines’ main gateway, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), was again crippled by a power outage on a holiday, this time on Labor Day, May 1. The NAIA Terminal 3 experienced the power outage at about 1:05 am on May 1. The cause of the power outage is still under investigation. “Pinagaaralan nga namin bakit nagkaroon ng mga ganitong problema ulit. Tinitignan nila kung nagkaroon ng power surge ang MERALCO (We’re studying how this problem happened again. We’re checking with MERALCO if a power surge happened),” Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said in an [...]
PBBM to appoint ‘competent personalities’ who lost in 2022 polls
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is considering appointing politicians who lost in the May 2022 polls after the one-year ban is lifted this month. In an interview with the media onboard Philippine Airlines Flight PR 001 on Sunday, Marcos said he would strengthen the Cabinet by adding more members during the beginning of the second year of his term. “Marami namang magaling na hindi nanalo sa eleksyon na gustong tumulong (There were a lot of competent personalities who didn't win in the elections that want to help). So we will certainly look into that in different positions,” Marcos said. Under the 1987 Constitution, the losing candidates are barred from assuming positions in the government within a year after the [...]
Four missing after dive boat sinks at Tubbataha Reef
Dream Keeper. Photo from Philippine Coast Guard Rescuers were searching for four people Sunday after a boat carrying more than a dozen scuba divers sank at a World Heritage-listed marine sanctuary in the Philippines, authorities said. The Philippine Coast Guard said 28 people were rescued after "Dream Keeper" went down on Sunday morning in the pristine waters at Tubbataha Reef off the western province of Palawan. Four Chinese were among those on board the dive boat. The owner of the vessel, a dive master and two guests were still missing, coast guard spokesman Rear Admiral Armando Balilo said. A coast guard vessel and about 10 dive boats were searching the waters. "It's full of diving enthusiasts now, and it's on their bucket list. It's a dream [...]
Marcos arrives in Washington for 5-day official visit
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (PNA photo by Rey Baniquet) MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. arrived in Washington, D.C. on Sunday for a five-day official visit aimed at reaffirming the special relationship between the Philippines and the United States. According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the PR 001 flight carrying Marcos and his official delegation landed at the Joint Base Andrews at 4:55 p.m. Sunday Washington, D.C. time (4:55 a.m. Philippine time). Aside from strengthening political ties with US during his working visit, Marcos said he would also advance the administration's economic agenda, particularly agriculture, power, infrastructure, and new technologies. “That’s on the economic level... on the political level, it will still be centered around the relationship between the Philippines and the [...]
Housing program for OFWs set up
DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar The OFW party-list and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) have joined hands in establishing a housing program for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). OFW Rep. Marissa Magsino and DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar on Sunday signed the memorandum of agreement (MoA) for the Pambansang Pabahay Program para sa mga OFWs. The MoA includes the allocation of housing units in the department's housing projects to OFWs, returnees and family members. The DHSUD will provide the details of housing projects that are in the pipeline, and the party-list can match them with OFWs who want to be beneficiaries. The department will manage the assessment and prequalification of validated and endorsed beneficiaries. Magsino said that before she became a [...]
10,000 workers to demand wage hike on Labor Day
More than 10,000 workers from various labor groups will troop to Mendiola near Malacanang on Monday, Labor Day, in what they said was a display of solidarity. This is intended to demand an increase in wages, an end to contractualization and the full recognition of the right to freely unionize, according to the All Philippine Trade Unions (APTU). It said it would gather more than 10,000 workers to march from España to Mendiola in the morning of May 1 to collectively air their demands. Also, the Department of the Interior and Local Government tapped local chief executives in Metro Manila and the Philippine National Police to begin preparations to ensure peace and order during the Labor Day celebration on May 1. FOR WORKERS’ RIGHTS. Members of various unions and [...]
DOH denies mandatory masking in Metro Manila, issues clarification on alert levels
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila— The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday refuted a viral online post on the supposed return of the mandatory COVID-19 face mask policy in Metro Manila, saying that restrictions in the capital region “remain to be in the status quo.” A social media card announcing that masks “should be worn at all times” in Metro Manila has circulated in the past days, but the DOH said the information is “incorrect.” “The department continues to remind the public to be mindful of the information we share and source information from reputable sources such as the official platforms and pages of the department, other national government agencies and institutions, as well as known news outlets among others,” the agency said in its advisory. “The [...]
SIM registration extended for 90 days: Here’s what you need to know
The SIM card registration period is extended for 90 days, but users who still have unregistered SIMs may lose access to social media or calls as the new deadline approaches MANILA – The registration of SIM cards has been extended by 90 days from the April 26 deadline, Information and Communications Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy announced on Tuesday, April 25. “We all had extensive deliberation on that. We feel that 90 days is more than enough time for everybody to register,” Uy said in a press conference. He emphasized that this was the public’s last chance to register their SIM cards as the law sets a hard limit for extensions. After SIM cards are deactivated following the extension period, Uy warned that the user will [...]
DICT eyes limiting social media access, other SIM services within 90-day registration extension
Metro Manila— The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is in talks with telecommunications firms about halting some SIM services during the 90-day extension of SIM registration so consumers will experience the consequences of failing to list their numbers. In a media briefing on Tuesday, DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy said there was an increase in the number of registrants near the end of the original April 26 deadline, which he believes reflects the bad habit of deferring compliance to the last minute. “In the last two weeks, we were averaging a million SIM registration a day. That goes to show that the issue is not really limited ID or anything. It’s just bad habit of delaying to the last minute the compliance to the [...]
BIR: President Marcos cannot avail himself of estate tax amnesty
The Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc., meanwhile, said it is still waiting for an official statement from the Department of Finance and BIR on the deferment. The STAR / Krizjohn Rosales, File photo MANILA — President Marcos cannot avail himself of the tax amnesty program of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for his family’s alleged P203 billion in unpaid estate taxes. This was the assurance given by BIR Assistant Commissioner Ma. Luisa Belen during yesterday’s hearing of the House committee on ways and means, chaired by Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, on House Bill (HB) 7409, which seeks to extend the June 14 deadline of the estate tax amnesty. Upon questioning by House Deputy Minority leader France Castro of ACT Teacher partylist, Belen said there is [...]
‘Papel na muna’: LTO to issue temporary driver’s license amid low supply of plastic cards
Photo of LTO chief Jay Art Tugade holding a print out of an official receipt of a driver's license, April 20, 2023 (Video grab from the Facebook page of the Land Transportation Office - Philippines) MANILA — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) confirmed an ongoing "shortage" in plastic driver's license cards in the Philippines — a situation which has lead them to decide on simply issuing temporary licenses printed on a mere piece of paper. LTO chief Jay Art Tugade informed the media of the problem on Thursday, April 20. According to him, this was a result of a department order they recieved in January, stating that all procurement involving P50 million and above should be conducted by the Derpartment of Transportation central office. "To those who will [...]
PH detects first Arcturus case
New Covid subvariant now in 33 countries Some citizens are seen wearing facemasks while other choose not to wear one, along Ilaya Street in Binondo, Manila. Health Officer in charge Maria Rosario Vergeire does not see the need to reimpose more stringent restrictions such as mandatory masking even if cases of Covid-19 continue to increase in the country. (PHOTO: MIKE ALQUINTO) The Philippines has detected its first case of the Arcturus or XBB.1.16 subvariant, the Department of Health (DoH) said Tuesday. The subvariant was found in a sample from Western Visayas and is one of the 89 samples that had Omicron subvariants during the latest sequencing run of the University of the Philippines-Philippine Genome Center, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, and San Lazaro Hospital from April [...]
Farmers: Rice, veggie prices to spike with El Niño; gov’t fixing water supply
The Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) has warned of a possible spike in the prices of local vegetables and rice due to El Niño. Meanwhile, the government has stepped up efforts to convert the country’s dependence on water supply from underground water to surface water, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Monday. FFF chairman Leonardo Montemayor, a former Agriculture secretary, said the lack of water during El Niño will adversely affect the production of crops, including vegetables. “That will really depend on how severe the dry spell will be. A severe El Niño will have a critical effect on vegetables. However, a mild El Niño will have a lesser impact on crops,” Montemayor said. The group said the Department of Agriculture – currently headed by the President as concurrent DA [...]
PH plots land, air, sea exits for OFWs in conflict-hit Sudan
The Department of Migrant Workers is looking into possible temporary employment in Saudi Arabia for displaced OFWs MANILA – The Philippine government is set to evacuate through land, air, and sea the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who sought assistance to flee clashes in Sudan, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced on Tuesday, April 25. “We are looking at three exit points. One would be from Khartoum, by land, and exit via Aswan into Egypt. That’s a land trip. The second one would be by land to Port Sudan and then by ship to Jeddah. The third one would be by air through Djibouti in cooperation with the US government, because they have a US base in Djibouti,” said Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople in a [...]
PAGASA: Heat reaches dangerous levels around the country
Metro Manila– The heat reached dangerous levels in many locations around the country on April 22 (Saturday) and is expected to maintain scorching temperatures into next week, the state weather bureau warned. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recorded high Heat Index levels which it classified as dangerous in the following areas around the country: Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, 42°C; Catarman, Northern Samar, 42°C; Clark Airport, Pampanga, 42°C; Dagupan City, Pangasinan, 43°C; Davao City, Davao Del Sur, 43°C; Iba, Zambales, 42°C; Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, 42°C; Legazpi City, Albay, 43°C; Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Pasay City, 42°C. PAGASA defined the Heat Index as the temperature that the human body feels. Based on the agency’s Heat Index scale, temperatures from 42°C to 51°C are considered in [...]
Masking in rail systems mandatory, says DOTr
LRT passengers browse through their cellphones while commuting in Manila on March 13, 2023. STAR / Miguel De Guzman MANILA — The public is advised to wear face masks in trains and railway facilities at all times as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has reimposed the safety protocol amid the rise in COVID-19 cases nationwide. DOTr Assistant Secretary for rails Jorjette Aquino said passengers are required to wear face masks inside trains of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3), Light Rail Transit Lines 1 and 2 (LRT-1 and LRT-2) and the Philippine National Railways (PNR). In her statement over the weekend, Aquino cited how “medical professionals in the railways sector stressed that the risk of COVID-19 transmission remains present in our trains as they are enclosed spaces.” Masking will also be required inside stations of the MRT-3, LRT-1 and LRT-2. [...]
Marcos names Benjamin Acorda Jr as new PNP chief
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Monday named Police Major General Benjamin Acorda Jr. as the new chief of the Philippine National Police. Acorda will replace outgoing PNP chief Police General Rodolfo Azurin Jr., who is set to retire on Monday. Marcos will grace the change of command ceremony at Camp Crame on Monday morning. Prior to his appointment as next PNP chief, Acorda was the PNP director for intelligence. A member of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) "Sambisig" Class of 1991, Acorda hails from Ilocos Norte, the home province of Marcos. 'Dark horse' A press statement from Malacañang said Acorda was considered as the real "dark horse" in the race for the next overall head of the national police by his peers and subordinates. Acorda finished elementary at the [...]
PAF personnel briefed on American Patriot missile system
960th Air and Missile Defense Group personnel pose with the 38th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, US Army and their missile launcher. (Photo courtesy of PAF) MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has been briefed on the operations and other specifications of the American-made MIM-104 Patriot surface-to-air missile system. In a statement over the weekend, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said it was made possible during the air and missile defense subject matter expert exchange (SMEE) conducted by the 38th Air Defense Artillery Brigade of the United States Army at Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command in San Antonio, Zambales on April 19. "During the learning session, subject matter experts from the 38th Air Defense Artillery Brigade discussed the operations, role, various specifications, capabilities, and key [...]
El Niño alert likely by May
NOWHERE TO HIDE. Commuters wait for a ride under intense heat along Elliptical Road in Quezon City on Thursday afternoon (April 20, 2023). Experts advise awareness on the symptoms of heat stroke like heavy sweating, cold skin, fast or weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, tiredness or weakness, and dizziness or headache. (PNA photo by Joan Bondoc) MANILA – The El Niño alert may be officially released by May as the chances of its occurrence continue to rise. The phenomenon, characterized by warmer than average temperatures, will be initially felt in Mindanao in October and will progress to the Visayas and Luzon, according to Marcelino Villafuerte, chief of the Climate Impact Assessment and Application of the Climatology and Agrometeorology Division under the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and [...]
Marcos, Biden to hold second bilateral talks in US on May 1
Metro Manila — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to meet with his American counterpart Joe Biden in Washington on May 1 for their second bilateral talks, the White House said. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre disclosed in a statement Thursday that during the meeting, Biden is expected to “reaffirm the United States’ ironclad commitment to the defense of the Philippines.” Earlier, the two nations issued a joint statement following their 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, where they expressed strong objections to China’s “unlawful maritime claims” and other aggression in the disputed waters. In addition to boosting security relations, the White House press secretary said the meeting would also involve discussions on strengthening “economic cooperation and promote inclusive prosperity, expand our nations’ special people-to-people ties, invest in [...]
Millions of farmers, workers to lose SIM access if registration not extended, says KMP
Farmers in Nueva Ecija harvested and sold sacks of onion at P50 per kilogram on a Thursday afternoon, March 30, 2023. Meanwhile, with the farmgate price of onions dropping to P47 per kilo, a farmers’ group urged President Bongbong Marcos in early March to intervene as farmers fear that the price will plummet to P10 per kilo. Philstar.com / Anj Andaya MANILA — Peasant group Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) is appealing to the government to extend the April 26 deadline of the mandatory SIM registration to prevent the disenfranchisement of millions from using their mobile devices in the coming days. Telco companies SMART Communications and TNT on April 18 reiterated its support for the extension of the SIM registration deadline after only 55.1% of their subscribers [...]
Austria opens labor market to Filipinos
Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople, together with DMW senior officials, meets with Austrian Ambassador His Excellency Johann Brieger to discuss labor cooperation initiatives on the recruitment of Filipino nurses to Austria, during the latter’s courtesy call, today, April 18 at the DMW Office in Mandaluyong City. Photo from Department of Migrant Workers Austria is opening its labor market to Filipino professionals and skilled workers across all industries, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said. A high-level delegation from Austria led by Professor Gunther Wiesinger visited Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople to discuss employment opportunities for Filipino workers in Austria. The delegation relayed to Ople that Austria will need 60,000 to 75,000 health care professionals and 200,000 more across different industries. "In the course of the next [...]
SRA amends rules to allow seized smuggled sugar to be sold at Kadiwa stores
The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has amended several rules to authorize the donation of confiscated smuggled sugar to Kadiwa stores and allow its sale to the general public. SRA Board Member Pablo Azcona said the agency’s governing body, the SRA Board, held a regular meeting on Tuesday to discuss issues concerning the industry. “Another thing that was urgently taken up was amendments to some of the memorandum circulars of the SRA that will involve the seized sugar. How to treat the seized sugar because, in the SRA, the treatment is either for sale through bidding or destruction,” Azcona told reporters in a Zoom interview on Wednesday. “We now amended it to allow donations to Kadiwa as well as the sale of these by Kadiwa,” he said. The SRA Board [...]
DFA: Australian trade minister to visit PH; boost economic ties
Australian Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell (Photo courtesy of the Australian Ministry for Trade and Tourism) MANILA – The Philippines is preparing to welcome Australian Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell, who will be in the country on a working visit from April 20 to 25, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Wednesday. Farrell will be meeting with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Benjamin Diokno to discuss “issues of mutual concern,” the DFA said. The official will be flying to Manila following a visit to Vietnam. Prior to his trip, Farrell said Australia is looking to identify opportunities to further strengthen economic ties with [...]
De Lima lawyers oppose DOJ plea to reopen her trial before RTC
MANILA – The camp of former senator Leila De Lima is asking the Muntinlupa court trying her for narcotics-related charges to turn down the motion of prosecutors for the reopening of the trial against her. In a five page motion, De Lima's defense counsels led by Teddy Esteban Rigoroso urged the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 204 to deny the government prosecution panel's motion for reconsideration to reopen the trial against the embattled former lawmaker. The parties both agreed last April 17 to terminate the proceedings and to submit the case for decision of the court. The Department of Justice (DOJ), however, subsequently sought a reopening of the proceedings to allow the testimony of Public Attorney Office (PAO) lawyer Demiteer Huerta as rebuttal evidence. Huerta had [...]
DFA: US allots $18M more for EDCA sites
Metro Manila— The US government has earmarked an additional $18 million for the construction of Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) projects, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo disclosed. At a Senate inquiry on Wednesday regarding the issues surrounding EDCA, Manalo said the US government committed to providing additional funding that would cover “existing and new agreed locations.” This was decided during the third US Philippines 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in Washington last week, he noted. The new funds are on top of the $100 million earlier secured from the US. Manalo also said there has been “significant progress” in EDCA projects, with six of them set for completion “within 2023,” including the runway project at Pampanga’s Basa Air Base and storage facilities in Mactan Air Base. The government earlier this month identified [...]
IBP to launch free legal aid portal
MANILA — As part of its response to the Supreme Court (SC)’s call for lawyers to make free legal aid more accessible to poor Filipinos, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) will launch today its first-ever web-based legal aid platform that intends to make pro bono lawyers and law firms available to people in need. Dubbed the IBP Pro Bono Portal (PBP), the platform was designed by Justice Connect, an Australia-based non-profit that supports similar organizations in various countries, including Hong Kong, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Germany. The platform’s launch follows the SC’s push for reforms in the judiciary, including accessibility to justice, which the high court views as a fundamental pillar in any democracy. Access to legal aid has been a longstanding issue among poor [...]
Store water, avoid dengue, DOH urges public
Residents of Bgy. 101 in Tondo, Manila line up their plastic containers to collect water as Maynilad Water Services Inc., announced daily water service interruptions across Metro Manila starting on March 28 and 29, 2023, to conserve water as the El Nino phenomenon looms. (File photo by MARIANNE BERMUDEZ / Philippine Daily Inquirer) MANILA — It’s bad enough to deal with a water shortage without having to worry about falling ill with dengue. Amid the limited water supply induced by the dry season, health authorities reminded the public to properly cover their water containers to prevent a further rise in cases of dengue, a disease caused by mosquitoes that breed in water. “The usual cause [of an increase in dengue cases] will be the water [...]
LTO ends med exam requirement
Any holder of a driver’s license with either a five-year or a 10-year validity is no longer required to go through a prescribed periodic medical examination, the Land Transportation Office said Sunday. LTO Chief Jay Art Tugade issued a directive to amend LTO Memorandum Circular 2021-2285 or the Supplemental Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 10930. Under the memorandum, apart from the regular medical examination as a requirement for application of a new or renewal of a driver’s license, those issued with a five-year or a 10-year valid driver’s license must undergo a PME. In the prevailing guidelines, for one with a driver’s license that carry a five-year validity, a PME is conducted on the third year of the date of birth after the license was issued. On [...]
Marcos liable if new EDCA sites cause war – expert
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Contributed Photo Political analyst Romulo "Bobby" Tuazon said on Saturday that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. could be held accountable in the event the Philippines was dragged into the Taiwan Strait conflict resulting from the country's hosting of more American military installations under its Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States. "I don't believe in the statement of Bongbong Marcos that the EDCA sites will not be used against China because, in fact, he also said that if the Philippines needed help then the EDCA sites can be used, which means that any time those sites can be used not only over the tensions in the Taiwan Strait against China but also the maritime disputes in the South China Sea also [...]
PH, US forces hold amphibious raid exercise in Palawan
AMPHIBIOUS RAID EXERCISE. The Philippines and US forces hold amphibious raid exercises at the at the beachhead of Barangay Samariñana in Brooke’s Point, Palawan on April 14, 2023. This year's "Balikatan" started April 11 and is scheduled to end on April 28. (Photo courtesy of Naval Forces West) MANILA – Naval Forces West (NFW) has announced that joint Philippines and US forces on April 14 have successfully conducted the amphibious raid exercise of this year's "Balikatan" in Palawan. In a statement Saturday, NFW chief Commodore Alan M. Javier said the exercise was done at the beachhead of Barangay Samariñana in Brooke’s Point, Palawan. "Following the arrival of the surface assets in Palawan (on April 14) an amphibious raid exercise was performed at the beachhead of [...]
Sara highlights efforts to improve education
Vice President and Education Secretary Sarah Duterte FILE PHOTO Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte on Thursday highlighted the thrust of the Marcos administration to provide quality, accessible, relevant, liberating and resilient education for Filipino learners in her opening statement during the meeting between the Second Congressional Commission on Education (Edcom 2) and DepEd (Department of Education). Duterte also acknowledged the move of Edcom 2 commissioners to push for transformative, complete and targeted reforms to address the learning crisis. Edcom 2, which was established through Republic Act 11899, evaluates the performance of the education sector. The vice president had earlier acknowledged that most senior high school graduates since 2016 struggled to find employment without a college or university education. Only a little more than 10 percent of [...]
DOH sounds alarm over ‘continuous’ rise of HIV infections in PH
The Philippines is currently seeing a continuous increase in the number of individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and cases are projected to reach 364,000 by 2030, an official of the Department of Health (DOH) said. HIV epidemic is one of the public health concerns worldwide, said Noel Palaypayon, unit head and supervising health program officer of the National HIV & STI Surveillance and Strategic Information Unit of the DOH's Epidemiology Bureau. In 2021, there were 38.4 million people living with HIV (PLHIV) globally, 1.5 million individuals were “newly infected,” and 650,000 people died from “AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)-related illnesses,” said Palaypayon as he cited data from the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). “But what's good to hear is that with all the interventions and efforts of [...]
P441.25M lost in 22 fishing days due to Mindoro oil spill, BFAR says
Some P441.25 million in income has been lost in 22 fishing days due to the Mindoro oil spill, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said Saturday. In a briefer sent to media, the BFAR said more than 26,000 fishermen were directly affected by the oil spill as of March 31, and they suffered P714 in daily income lost. "Data from DA-BFAR showed that there were 26,719 FishR registered fisherfolks directly affected by the oil spill as of March 31, 2023. They incurred an average daily income loss of Php714.00 on current PSA estimates, with almost Php20M daily losses—which translated to a total income loss of PhP441,253,428.00 in twenty-two (22) fishing days," BFAR director Demosthenes Escoto said. "Meanwhile, the damage or losses in terms of inputs and produce, [...]
France promulgates disputed pension reform into law
French President Emmanuel Macron has promulgated his controversial pension reform into law, including raising the retirement age to 64, according to a text published in the country's Official Journal early Saturday. The publication of the law in the official journal -- France's gazette of record in which the appearance of legislation means it has been enacted into law -- comes after the country's constitutional court approved Macron's plan on Friday.
China tells PH to oppose ‘Taiwan independence,’ warns anew vs. EDCA sites
Metro Manila, Philippines — China has advised the Philippines to oppose “Taiwan independence” amid ongoing regional tensions as it issued anew a warning against the United States’ expanded military access in the country. Speaking at a forum on Friday, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian claimed the US “intends to take advantage” of the new sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) — a deal between Manila and Washington — to supposedly “interfere” in the situation in the Taiwan Strait. “The Philippines is advised to unequivocally oppose ‘Taiwan independence’ rather than stoking the fire by offering the US access to the military bases near the Taiwan Strait if you care genuinely about the 150,000 OFWs [overseas Filipino workers in Taiwan],” Huang said in his speech. "Obviously, the [...]
Philippines won’t allow U.S. access to military sites for offensive moves
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. | REUTERS Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the four new sites that the U.S. can access under an expanded defense agreement are intended to bolster the Southeast Asian nation’s capability to defend its territory, and not for any offensive moves. “We will not allow our military bases to be used for any offensive action,” Marcos said Monday ahead of the start of the two allies’ annual joint military exercises. “It is only meant to help the Philippines, when the Philippines is in need of help,” he said, according to a statement from his communications office. The president last week identified the additional sites, namely a naval base and an airport in Cagayan province and a military camp in Isabela province — all near Taiwan — [...]
Climate change: Treasury report says NZ economy well placed to cope
Flooding after the Ngaruroro River in Hawke's Bay burst its banks during Cyclone Gabrielle. Photo: Supplied / Dawson Bliss A new Treasury report says New Zealand's economy as a whole is resilient and well-placed to weather the climate change storm. However it said the "modest" change predicted to gross GDP in the coming decades masked the huge impact it would have on some sectors and households, and one expert is questioning its conclusions altogether, saying it is radically underestimating the costs. Cutting emissions to meet New Zealand's climate targets may cause some sectors to shrink or even disappear, particularly those whose only way to reduce emissions is by reducing output. Agriculture, forestry, fisheries and tourism were particularly exposed, as were the regions where these industries dominate or the [...]
LPA off Catanduanes develops into Tropical Depression Amang
Tropical Depression Amang is the Philippines' first tropical cyclone for 2023 MANILA – The low pressure area (LPA) that the weather bureau has been monitoring developed into a tropical depression at 2 am on Tuesday, April 11. It was given the local name Amang, as the Philippines’ first tropical cyclone for 2023. Tropical Depression Amang was last spotted 475 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes, moving west northwest at 20 kilometers per hour (km/h) before dawn on Tuesday. It has maximum sustained winds of 45 km/h and gustiness of up to 55 km/h. In a bulletin issued at 5 am, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) raised Signal No. 1 for the following areas, warning of strong winds: Catanduanes northern part of Eastern Samar (Taft, Can-avid, [...]
China ends Taiwan war games aimed at ‘sealing off’ island
China's latest war games were launched in response to Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy last week. This handout photo taken on Apr 9, 2023 shows a fighter plane taking off from the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong in Pacific Ocean waters, south of Okinawa prefecture. (Photo: AFP/Japan's Ministry of Defense/Handout) PINGTAN— China declared it had "successfully completed" three days of war games around Taiwan on Monday (Apr 10), capping a show of force that saw it simulate targeted strikes and practise a blockade of the self-ruled island. Beijing's exercises were a response to Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy last week, an encounter it had warned would provoke strong countermeasures. After three days of exercises, the [...]
Dalai Lama apologises for asking boy to suck his tongue
In this file photo taken on Dec 29, 2022, Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama waves during his first day of teaching session at the Kalachakra Ground in Bodhgaya. (Photo: AFP/Sanjay Kumar) NEW DELHI— The Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama apologised on Monday (Apr 10) after a video which showed him asking a boy to suck his tongue triggered a backlash on social media. The video, which has gone viral, shows the Dalai Lama, 87, planting a kiss on the boy's lips as he leaned in to pay his respects. The Buddhist monk is then seen sticking his tongue out as he asked the child to suck it. "Can you suck my tongue," he is heard asking the young boy in the video. The video is from an [...]
Tensions across strait have great impact on PH security, expert says
Instability in the Taiwan Strait caused by Chinese military drills will have a great impact on Philippine security, an expert on security said Monday. “We are hosting American military facilities and if the US decides to use these military facilities to act in any military contingencies in Taiwan, then surely the Philippines will be a target of possible China’s military action also,” said Rommel Banlaoi, president of the Philippine Society for Intelligence and Security Studies, on ANC’s “Headstart” TV program. Banlaoi said the Philippines must pay serious attention to the developments in Taiwan Strait, focusing on the need to avoid military conflict and promote the peaceful management of ongoing tensions there. China launched the military drills on Saturday, in what it called a “stern warning” to the self-ruled island’s [...]
US warship cruises near China outpost in West Philippine Sea
TESTING FREEDOM OF NAVIGATION The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG-69), deployed to the US 7th Fleet area of operations, conducts underway operations at an undisclosed location in the South China Sea in this handout picture released on April 10. —US NAVY PHOTO MANILA — A United States Navy guided-missile destroyer cruised near a Chinese man-made military outpost in the West Philippine Sea on Monday, drawing condemnation from China, which described the warship’s entry into the waters as an “illegal” intrusion. The USS Milius conducted a freedom of navigation operation within 12 nautical miles or 22 kilometers of Panganiban (Mischief) Reef, a Chinese military base located within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and “upheld the rights, freedoms and lawful uses of the sea,” according to the [...]
‘Unlimited pork import causing ASF’
An agriculture business group said the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) in the country is due to the “unlimited” and “untested” importation of pork into the Philippines. In a statement, Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) executive director Jayson Cainglet said the government should provide aid for local hog raisers and farmers, as there is no indemnification being given. Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte meanwhile called on the Bureau of Animal Industry to mull over the implementation of a nationwide immunization drive to contain ASF. “It will not matter if you impose movement protocols and biosecurity measures in local farms and transport of live hogs if we continue to have an unlimited entry of untested imported pork at the port of first entry,” Cainglet, quoted by GMA News, [...]
SIM card registration figures still ‘far from the target’ says DICT
Noting that the current figures are still “far from the target,” the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) continued to urge the public to register their SIMs before the deadline set this month to avoid the deactivation of SIM cards. DICT / MANILA BULLETIN “The DICT emphasizes that there will be no extension for the deadline, and strict implementation will be in effect,” DICT said in a statement issued on April 9. DICT has set April 26 as the deadline for SIM card registration. The department also warned that “failure to register will result in the deactivation of SIM cards, rendering them unusable for voice calls, text messaging, and mobile data services.” The current registration figures, DICT said, are “far from the target” --- with numerous SIMs remaining [...]
At Easter vigil, Pope Francis encourages hope amid ‘icy winds of war’
Pope Francis presides over the Easter Vigil in Saint Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, April 8, 2023. (REUTERS) VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis led the world’s Roman Catholics into Easter at a Saturday night vigil Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, decrying the “icy winds of war” and other injustices. The 86-year-old Francis skipped an outdoor event on Friday night because of unseasonably cold temperatures in Rome. His doctors ordered prudence after he was hospitalized last week for bronchitis. Francis appeared to be well during the Easter Vigil service, during which he baptized eight adult converts to Catholicism. After starting the service in the rear of the church with the traditional lighting of a large paschal candle, he was taken in a wheelchair to the front to preside [...]
Angara: Funds available for govt cancer program
Sen. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara. File Photo Sen. Juan Edgardo "Sonny" Angara on Saturday said there are funds available under the national budget for cancer patients seeking treatment at government hospitals. "As chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, we have always ensured that there is funding for programs and projects to help our people who are afflicted with cancer, particularly those who cannot afford expensive treatments," he said in a statement. Angara's statement came after the head of the Philippine General Hospital's (PGH) Cancer Institute, Dr. Jorge Ignacio, was quoted as saying that they are "bracing for the worst" in the next two to three years as more cancer patients flock to them to seek treatment. Ignacio explained that cancer patients who were sidelined during the [...]
3 Chinese arrested for illegal detention in Parañaque
Members of the Parañaque Police Tambo substation arrested three Chinese men for illegally detaining their compatriot on Friday, April 7. According to the Southern Police District (SPD), the suspects identified as Wang Dingding, Ying Jian and Yong Jin Ong were arrested at around 2 p.m. at a casino resort and hotel in Barangay Tambo, Parañaque City. The SPD said the victim identified as Zhou Qing, 33, called his girlfriend Anne Rose Valenzuela Burca, claiming that he was detained by the suspects after losing P500,000 from a casino. The victim told Burca that he will be sold to a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) company if he fails to fulfill the suspects’ demands of paying the P500,000. Burca immediately sought assistance from the casino security guards, wherein Qing [...]
3,000 PCG personnel deployed at ports
In a statement, the PCG said 2,688 frontline personnel were dispatched to its 15 districts offices to inspect vessels and motorized boats. AFP / Ted Aljibe MANILA — Around 3,000 Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel have been deployed at various ports to ensure the safety of passengers returning for work after the Holy Week break. In a statement, the PCG said 2,688 frontline personnel were dispatched to its 15 districts offices to inspect vessels and motorized boats. The PCG said it monitored 8,749 outbound passengers and 7,719 inbound passengers yesterday. Early last week, more than 90,000 inbound and outbound passengers were monitored at various ports. “The PCG placed its districts, stations and substations on heightened alert to manage the influx of port passengers during the Holy Week from [...]
Bill creating PH ‘disaster map’ passes first reading in Congress
A BILL mandating the issuing of a national disaster map of the Philippines has passed first reading at the House of Representatives. House Bill No. 7278 or the National Hazard Mapping Act directs several departments to work together in creating a national disaster map that would help prevent the loss of lives and property during calamities. Quezon City Rep. Arjo Atayde According to the bill’s principal author, Quezon City First District Rep. Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde, having a disaster map is beneficial for a more effective and anticipatory approach to natural disasters. “No one can predict or prevent natural disasters, but we can most certainly prepare our countrymen for them,” said Atayde. The House Committee on Climate Change, chaired by Bohol First District Rep. Edgar Chatto, unanimously approved [...]
Hefty price hike: P2.50 for gasoline, P1.50 for diesel
Cleanfuel said diesel and kerosene prices are seen rising by more than P1.50 this week, and gasoline prices by more than P2.50. STAR / KJ Rosales, file MANILA— Hefty increases in pump prices await motorists after the long Holy Week break, according to an oil industry source. Cleanfuel said diesel and kerosene prices are seen rising by more than P1.50 this week, and gasoline prices by more than P2.50. Oil firms are expected to announce the price hikes tomorrow but the actual adjustments are to take effect the following day. It was the announcement of Saudi Arabia and other OPEC+ oil producers last week of further reduction in output by 1.16 million barrels per day that sparked the latest hikes in pump prices across the globe. This week’s forecasted [...]
PH assures control of bases under EDCA pact
Philippine and US troops hold 'Salaknib' 2023 in Nueva Ecija on Friday, March 31, 2023. The live fire exercises were performed at the AAR Long Range Precision Firing Area, Canantong, Laur. The military activity, which aims to build readiness and increase interoperability among allies, precedes the annual 'Balikatan' or shoulder-to-shoulder exercises which will be conducted in April this year. PHOTO BY MIKE DE JUAN The Department of National Defense (DND) reiterated on Saturday that the Philippines retains its sovereignty and control over the facilities identified under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States. The Defense department issued the statement after the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) and Bayan Muna criticized certain provisions in the agreement that they claim allow the US military to have [...]
Pagasa: LPA off Mindanao may enter PAR by Easter Sunday
MANILA — The low pressure area (LPA) off Mindanao may enter the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) on Sunday and could stay linger within the country’s territory until Friday next week, the state weather bureau said. As of 4:00 a.m. on Good Friday, the LPA was spotted some 1,620 kilometers east of Southern Mindanao, according to Benison Estareja, weather specialist of Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). “Makikita po natin over the weekend, mabagal ang pagkilos nito palapit ng ating kalupaan papunta sa Mindanao at inaasahang papasok ng ating Philippine area of responsibility pagsapit ng linggo,” Estareja said. (Over the weekend, the LPA will move slowly towards our landmass to Mindanao, and is expected to enter the Philippine area of responsibility on Sunday.) 2 possible [...]
Secret US documents on Ukraine war plan spill onto internet — report
Soldiers work on a Challenger 2 main battle tank during during the Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers’ training exercise called "Iron Challenge" at the Longmoor training area, near Bordon, Hampshire, on March 14, 2022. ADRIAN DENNIS / AFP WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES — Secret documents that provide details of US and NATO plans to help prepare Ukraine for a spring offensive against Russia have spilled onto social media platforms, the New York Times reported on Thursday. The Pentagon said it is assessing the reported security breach. "We are aware of the reports of social media posts, and the Department is reviewing the matter," Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said. The documents were spread on Twitter and Telegram, and reportedly contain charts and details about weapons deliveries, battalion strengths and [...]
Holy Week message: humility, selfless love
VISITA IGLESIA. The Catholic faithful flock to the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, Manila on Maundy Thursday (April 6, 2023) to pray and recite the Stations of the Cross. Visita Iglesia is a Catholic tradition during Holy Week which involves visiting 7 or 14 churches to pray or meditate on the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim) MANILA – With the celebration of Holy Week, various traditions practiced in the country resurfaced, especially now with the easing of most Covid-19 restrictions. However, it seems that many are forgetting the real message of the occasion, the ‘mandatum’ or command left by Jesus Christ himself, of loving one another without expecting anything in return, and serving others with a humble heart. In an [...]
Prices of rice seen going up
Retail store attendant arrange sacks of rice at storage in Marikina city (September 21, 2022). STAR / Walter Bollozos MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Retail prices of rice are expected to go up in the next few weeks due to low buffer stock, high farmgate prices of palay amid the dry season and the rising cost of imported rice, an official of the Department of Agriculture (DA) said yesterday. DA Assistant Secretary and deputy spokesman Rex Estoperez said the agency is projecting an increase of up to P5 per kilo of rice. “During the dry harvest season, prices normally shoot up because the rice is already dry. Plus, the fact that our inputs are also increasing,” Estoperez said. He cited the high price of rice procurement at P22 to P23 per [...]
11 Latin American nations announce inflation battle plan
(FILES) This handout picture released by the Mexican Presidency shows Mexico’s President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador speaking during a press conference in Mexico City on March 28, 2023. (Photo by Mexican Presidency / AFP) MEXICO CITY — The leaders of 11 Latin American nations, including its two biggest economies, Brazil and Mexico, announced on Wednesday a plan to work together to address rampant inflation. The initiative was unveiled after a virtual meeting convened by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. He said the aim was to give people access to “food and basic products at better prices” through steps such as removing import tariffs and other trade barriers. The priority is to reduce “the cost of these products for the poorest and most vulnerable,” according to a statement released [...]
More Filipinos support cha-cha; many unfamiliar about the Constitution – survey
The number of Filipinos who support amendments of 1987 Philippine Constitution reached 41%, up by 10-percentage points, according to a poll conducted by Pulse Asia. The pollster, on Tuesday, March 4, revealed that 44% of Filipino adults admit knowing little about the Constitution and 34% have almost or completely no knowledge about it. Meanwhile, 45% of survey participants are still against the proposal of changing the Constitution, while 31% of Filipinos do not see the need for charter change now nor at any other time in the future. The poll, conducted from March 15 to 19, found that most Filipino adults (53% to 76%) are not in favor of seven proposed changes to the Constitution. The Pulse Asia survey also showed that Filipinos are split regarding the [...]
18MT of Davao durian shipped to China for the 1st time
FIRST SHIPMENT. Boxes of Davao durian are being prepared at the Davao International Airport as the Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) ships 18 metric tons of durian to China on Thursday (April 6, 2023). The historical event was made possible after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with Chinese officials including President Xi Jinping during his visit in January 2023. (PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.) DAVAO CITY – The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) shipped 18 metric tons of durian to China on Thursday. In an interview, Emmanuel Belviz, president of the Durian Industry Association of Davao City, said China has opened a huge market for their produce with the Puyat, D-101, Cob and Duyaya as exported varieties. "This is what we [...]
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said on Thursday that a new low pressure area (LPA) will likely enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Sunday. However, this weather disturbance still has a slim chance to directly affect the country, according to weather forecaster Patrick del Mundo. He told The Manila Times that the ridge or extension of the high pressure area (HPA) is affecting Northern Luzon over the next 24 hours. An opposite of LPA, HPA indicates an area where the atmospheric pressure is higher than its surroundings and formation of clouds is usually suppressed, thus, less chance of rains, Pagasa said. Most likely, Metro Manila and the rest of the country will have overcast skies and isolated rain showers as well [...]
PH warship sent to patrol mineral, gas-rich island off Aurora
The BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) docks at the Manila South Harbor Pier 15, on Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022, during the Philippine Navy's arrival ceremony for the Naval Task Group (NTG) 80.0 on board the multi-mission capable frigate. The NTG participated in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise 2022 in Hawaii. PHOTOS BY MIKE ALQUINTO The Philippine Navy (PN) has sent one of its most capable warships, BRP Antonio Luna (FF151), to patrol the Philippine Rise off the coast of Aurora Province. According to Acting Philippine Navy Commanding Officer Commodore Jim Aris Alagao, BRP Antonio Luna carried out maritime patrol to intensify naval presence in the Philippine Rise, the 13-million-hectare undersea volcanic ridge located east of Luzon. Alagao said this is part of the government's [...]
Israeli police attack worshippers in Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque
Israeli police have attacked and arrested Palestinian worshippers in a violent raid on the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem at dawn, according to witnesses. At least 400 Palestinians were arrested on Wednesday and remain in Israeli custody, according to local officials. They are being held at a police station in Atarot, in occupied East Jerusalem. Palestinian witnesses said Israeli forces used excessive force including stun grenades and tear gas, causing suffocation injuries to the worshippers, and beatings with batons and rifles. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported there were 12 injuries, including three people who were transferred to hospital. It also said in a statement that Israeli forces prevented its medics from reaching Al-Aqsa. (Al Jazeera) The raids continued until Wednesday morning when Israeli forces were once again [...]
Jacinda Ardern delivers final speech to NZ parliament
Outgoing New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern gives her valedictory speech in parliament in Wellington on April 5, 2023. AFP / Mark Coote WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND — Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern bowed out of parliament Wednesday, ending a career marked by empathetic leadership during times of crisis even as she faced escalating abuse online. Ardern shocked New Zealand earlier this year when she announced she was stepping down as prime minister and retiring from politics, saying she no longer had "enough in the tank." The 42-year-old, once the youngest woman leader in the world, said in her final speech to parliament that she never expected to take the nation's top job. "It was a cross between a sense of duty to steer a moving freight [...]
US Ambassador Carlson visits Morong
Bataan Provincial Board Member Jorge Estanislao personally welcomed US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay L. Carlson and her contingent during a recent visit to his town of Morong. He thanked the US diplomat on behalf of Bataan Governor Joet Garcia and Morong Mayor Cynthia Estanislao. Estanislao said it is a privilege to see the top US official stationed in the Philippines setting foot in their town. Carlson graced a ceremony in the municipality for the newest batch of US Peace Corps Philippines Volunteers who are planting mangroves in coastal Barangay Mabayo. The US envoy was in Morong with US Peace Corps Country Director Jenner Edelman and three HQ staff from Washington DC — EMA Chief of Operations David Reside, Placement Directors Itzel Schlopiz and Connie Lee, and Training Manager [...]
17,600 PH, US troops to join Balikatan 2023
Over 17,600 American and Filipino soldiers will participate in the Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder) Exercises to be held from April 11 to 28 in various provinces including Palawan, Batanes and Zambales. This year's iteration will be the biggest yet, the US Embassy in Manila said on Tuesday. "This year marks the 38th iteration of the exercise, incorporating training activities throughout the Philippines," the embassy said on Tuesday in a statement. About 5,400 Filipino soldiers and 12,200 US military personnel will train shoulder-to-shoulder, developing interoperability and improved capability in the areas of maritime security, amphibious operations, live-fire training, and urban and aviation operations. "Together, the United States and the Philippines are committed to promoting regional peace and stability," the embassy said. The participants will also train on cyber defense, counterterrorism, [...]
Double pay for workers on April 6, 7, 10: DOLE
File photo MANILA – Employees in the private sector who will render work on April 6 (Maundy Thursday), April 7 (Good Friday), and April 10 (Araw ng Kagitingan), all regular holidays, are entitled to receive 200 percent of their daily salary. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in Labor Advisory 7 released on Wednesday, said for work done during the regular holiday, the employer shall pay a total of 200 percent of the employee's wage for that day for the first eight hours (basic wage x 200%). "For that employee who did not report to work, the DOLE said the employer shall pay 100 percent of the employee's wage for that day, provided that the employee reports to work or is on leave of absence [...]
Donald Trump pleads not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records
Former US President Donald Trump pleaded not guilty to 34 felony criminal charges of falsifying business records in Manhattan criminal court Tuesday afternoon. The indictment against Trump alleges that the former president sought to undermine the integrity of the 2016 election. Prosecutors alleged Trump was part of an unlawful plan to suppress negative information, including an illegal payment of $130,000 that was ordered by the defendant to suppress the negative information that would hurt his campaign. The reason Trump committed the crime of falsifying business records was in part to “promote his candidacy,” the indictment alleges. The former president’s voice was measured in the courtroom. He walked in slowly scanning the reporters in the courtroom and looked at the judge when he was speaking. Trump had arrived at the [...]
WHO says infertility affects 1 in 6 globally, calls for more consistent data
FILE PHOTO: Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus attends an ACANU briefing on global health issues, in Geneva, Switzerland, December 14, 2022. REUTERS/Denis Balibouse About one in six adults globally have experienced infertility at least once in their life, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a report on Monday (Apr 3), urging countries to actively collect more consistent data on the disease. The report analysed existing studies conducted from 1990 to 2021 and showed that about 17.5 per cent of adults across the world were affected by the inability to have a child. WHO officials said the report takes into account several research approaches. "The sheer proportion of people affected shows the need to widen access to fertility care and ensure [...]
Filipinos 3rd top socmed users in the world
FILIPINOS spend an average of 554 minutes or 9 hours and 14 minutes every day browsing the internet. File Photo Filipinos spend an average of 554 minutes or 9 hours and 14 minutes every day browsing the internet, placing them third behind South Africans and Brazilians, according to a virtual private network app provider. Atlas VPN reported that based on data it gathered in 2022, the global daily average for internet usage was 397 minutes (6 hours and 37 minutes). That translates to around 2,415 hours yearly, or nearly 30 percent of an average person's time, Atlas VPN said. Ranked number one were South Africans, described by the report as the "most internet-addicted," averaging 578 minutes (9 hours and 38 minutes) spent online each day, [...]
US: 4 new EDCA sites to boost ‘interoperability’ of American, Filipino troops
The United States, through the Pentagon, said the four new locations under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) in the Philippines will "strengthen the interoperability" of American and Filipino soldiers. In a statement shared by the US Embassy in Manila, the Pentagon said the additional EDCA sites will "allow us to respond more seamlessly together to address a range of shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, including natural and humanitarian disasters." The US Department of Defense (USDoD) on Monday said it will work "in lockstep" with its Philippine counterpart and the Armed Forces of the Philippines "to rapidly pursue modernization projects at the EDCA sites." The US said it "stands steadfastly in support of the Philippines" as it announced the EDCA expansion to include the Naval Base Camilo Osias [...]
US to open embassy in Vanuatu as it seeks to counter China in the Pacific
The says it US is planning to open an embassy in Port Vila, Vanuatu, amid China’s increasing influence in the Pacific region. Photograph: Mario Tama/Getty ImagesThe United States plans to open an embassy in Vanuatu, the state department has confirmed, as Washington moves to boost its diplomatic presence in the Pacific to counter China’s growing influence. The United States plans to open an embassy in Vanuatu, the state department has confirmed, as Washington moves to boost its diplomatic presence in the Pacific to counter China’s growing influence. “Consistent with the US Indo-Pacific strategy, a permanent diplomatic presence in Vanuatu would allow the US government to deepen relationships with Ni-Vanuatu officials and society,” the department said in a statement. “Establishing US embassy Port Vila would facilitate areas of potential [...]
CHED to work with MARINA, maritime schools to raise training standards
The Maritime Industry Authority held its first oath-taking ceremony for new Marine Deck and Engineer Officers into their new official ranks on March 23, 2023. Facebook / Maritime Industry Authority MANILA — The Commission on Higher Education said that it is ready to work with other agencies to improve the education and skills training of Filipino seafarers to better meet international standards. This comes after the European Commission ruled it will continue recognizing seafarer certificates issued by the Philippines to masters and officers after the country "made serious efforts to comply with requirements." The announcement effectively saved the jobs of around 50,000 Filipinos working on EU-flag vessels. "CHED is ready to work with Marina and the maritime [higher educational institutions] to fully implement the needed reforms based on the areas identified by [...]
MIAA expects 1.2-M passengers at NAIA during Holy Week
(PNA photo by Avito Dalan) About 1.2 million passengers in the terminals of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) are expected over the next 10 days beginning Saturday, April 1, the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) said. In a press conference, MIAA General Manager Cesar Chiong said they are anticipating about 140,000 passenger traffic daily in the upcoming holidays, as border restrictions have been lifted globally since the COVID-19 pandemic. Chiong assured sufficient manpower and equipment for the influx of passengers “to give the riding public a seamless travel experience at NAIA.” He also advised passengers to arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure for international flights and two hours before departure for domestic flights to avoid possible delays. The official also stressed that in order [...]
BI to stop using departure forms under expanded eTravel scheme
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) will discontinue the use of paper-based departure cards starting May 1. In an advisory, BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said they are expanding the eTravel system to lessen the requirement for departing passengers. The setup—initially launched in December—harmonizes and consolidates data collection processes at ports of arrival. “The eTravel platform will soon be used for both arriving and departing passengers,” Tansingco said. “Travelers no longer have to fill out departure cards, and instead may log in the online portal prior to their flight,” he added. The system is an initiative of a sub-technical working group (TWG) of the Inter-Agency Task Force, chaired by the BI. It is a joint project of the agency with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department of [...]
Billions needed to avert unrest, starvation: UN food chief
This picture made available by the World Food Program on Nov 2, 2021, shows a mother giving supplementary nutrition products to her 6-month-old daughter in Ankilimanondro, Atsimo-Andrefana Region, Madagascar. (Photo: AP/WFP/Tsiory Ny Aina Andriantso) UNITED NATIONS— Without billions of dollars more to feed millions of hungry people, the world will see mass migration, destabilised countries, and starving children and adults in the next 12 to 18 months, the head of the Nobel prize-winning UN World Food Program warned Friday (Mar 31). David Beasley praised increased funding from the United States and Germany last year, and urged China, Gulf nations, billionaires and other countries “to step up big time”. In an interview before he hands the reins of the world’s largest humanitarian organisation to US ambassador Cindy McCain next [...]
No ban: EU to continue recognizing PH seafarers’ certificates
FILE PHOTO: European Union flags flutter outside the EU Commission headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, September 28, 2022. REUTERS/Yves Herman MANILA — The European Union (EU) will continue recognizing the certificates of Filipino seafarers, noting its “constructive cooperation” with Philippine authorities in upgrading the maritime workers’ training program and accreditation system. In February last year, the EU urged the Philippines to improve its efforts to comply with the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers Convention, dangling a threat to withdraw recognition of Filipino seafarers’ qualifications in EU flag-carrying vessels if it finds that the concerns it raised years ago remain unresolved. The Department of Migrant Workers said the country had not been able to pass the European Maritime Safety Agency’s (Emsa) evaluation since 2006. “Since then, the [...]
Stampede at Ramadan food distribution centre kills 11 in Pakistan
Women and children die when people panic and push each other to collect food in Karachi, officials say. Women leave with their free sack of wheat flour at a distribution point in Lahore, Pakistan [File: KM Chaudary/AP] A stampede at a Ramadan food distribution centre in Pakistan’s southern city of Karachi has killed at least 11 people, all women and children, according to police and rescue officials. Several people were also injured in Friday’s incident, which happened when hundreds of people panicked and started pushing each other to collect food outside a factory. Some of them fell into a nearby drain, police official Mughees Hashmi said. Residents said a wall also collapsed near the drain, injuring and killing people amid the stampede. Local media reported that eight women and [...]
At least 13 dead after falling into well in India when temple floor collapsed
People stand around a structure built over an old temple well that collapsed on Thursday.Photograph: AP At least 13 devotees were killed and more than a dozen people have been rescued after they fell into a well at a Hindu temple in India, officials have said. More than 25 worshippers plunged into the stepwell – a stair-lined communal water source – after the floor covering it collapsed on Thursday in the central city of Indore. “Police recovered 11 bodies from the well and two people succumbed to their injuries at the hospital,” said Narottam Mishra, the home minister of Madhya Pradesh state. Mishra said an investigation had been launched into the tragedy and the families of the dead people would be compensated. Police official Manish Kapuriya said rescue [...]
Government revises departure protocols after complaints vs immigration officers
Passengers line up to go through immigration counters at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City on March 4, 2023. Philstar.com MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Immigration procedures are undergoing revisions following complaints over the apparently overly strict implementation of departure protocols for travelers leaving the Philippines, the Department of Justice said on Thursday. In a statement, the DOJ said the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking is "in the process of revising the departure formalities to better reflect current trends and plug the gaps that arose along the way." IACAT, chaired by the DOJ, serves as the coordinating and monitoring mechanism on all anti-human trafficking efforts of the government. Several travelers have complained on social media about missing their flights or being offloaded after fielding probing questions by Bureau of Immigration [...]
Taiwan, China must do ‘everything possible’ to avoid war: Former president Ma
Former Taiwanese president Ma Ying-jeou visits an exhibition on how China fought against COVID-19, in Wuhan, Hubei province, China in handout picture released on Mar 30, 2023. (Photo: Ma Ying-jeou's Office/Handout via Reuters) TAIPEI— Taiwan and China must do everything possible to avoid war and it is the responsibility of both sides' leaders to ensure peace, former Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou told a senior Chinese official on Thursday (Mar 30). Ma arrived in China on Monday, the first time a former or sitting Taiwanese president has visited the country since the defeated Republic of China government fled to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to Mao Zedong's communists. Meeting Song Tao, head of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, Ma said [...]
Philippines, China pursuing joint energy exploration in West Philippine Sea
This March 22, 2021 aerial photo shows Chinese vessels still present in the Julian Felipe Reef in the West Philippine Sea, well within the Philippine exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. Armed Forces of the Philippines MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Despite their still unresolved maritime rift, the Philippines and China remain open to the prospect of joint oil and gas explorations in contested waters. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo disclosed the scenario and emphasized that any talks or discussions on the matter would be based on the country’s laws. “In any negotiation on oil and gas, the Philippine position has always been that we will be guided by the constitutional requirements. And that’s how we will proceed in the next round,” he said in a report on GMA7 Wednesday night. [...]
CPP-NPA peace talks a trap, DepEd chief warns
VICE President Sara Duterte. Photo from Inday Sara Duterte Fb page Vice President Sara Duterte has called on the Marcos administration to "not fall into the trap" of holding peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF). This is in response to Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT-Teachers) party-list Rep. France Castro's comments that the Education chief should focus on resolving the education crisis without resorting to "red-tagging." In a statement, Duterte said that Castro's remarks confirmed the ACT Teachers' party-list as "a fake representative of learners, educators, and other members of the education sector in Congress with her continued refusal to publicly and explicitly condemn the New People's Army's violence in Masbate." Classes in six towns in Masbate have [...]
Ex-US President Donald Trump indicted by Manhattan grand jury
Donald Trump has been indicted by a Manhattan grand jury, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter — the first time in American history that a current or former president has faced criminal charges. The indictment has been filed under seal and will be announced in the coming days. The charges are not publicly known at this time, one source told CNN. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office will reach out to Trump's attorneys to discuss his surrender to face an arraignment. CNN has reached out to Trump's attorneys for comment. The DA's office has been investigating the former president in connection with his alleged role in a hush money payment scheme and cover-up involving adult film star Stormy Daniels that dates to the 2016 presidential election. The [...]
Marcos to Pag-IBIG: Help DHSUD address housing backlog
HOUSING BACKLOG. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (left) graces the Pag-IBIG Fund Chairman’s Report for the unveiling of the Agency’s 2022 performance and the dividend rates on the members’ savings at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on Tuesday (March 28, 2023). Marcos called on the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development to assist concerned agencies in addressing the housing backlog of more than 6.5 million. Also in photo are Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees Secretary Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar (center) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Marilene C. Acosta. (PNA photo by Alfred Frias) MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday called on the Pag-IBIG Fund to assist concerned agencies in addressing the country’s housing backlog of more than 6.5 million. “I [...]
House bill to restructure senior citizens discount
Senior citizens. File Photo A bill filed at the House of Representatives seeks a graduated system for the senior citizens' discount on certain goods and services. House Bill 7487 was filed on March 7, 2023 by Senior Citizens party-list Rep. Rodolfo "Ompong" Ordanes. "This bill seeks to reformulate the senior-citizen discounts we provide by restructuring it to become more dynamic to the needs of our senior citizens. It seeks to increase the discounts available to those senior citizens who are older and in need [of] discounts the most," the bill's explanatory note stated. If passed into law, it will amend Republic Act (RA) 9994. RA 9994 granted additional benefits and privileges to senior citizens, further amending RA 7432 (An Act to Maximize the Contribution of Senior Citizens [...]
Chinese ships sighted off Pag-asa Island
More Chinese military ships have been monitored in areas near islands in the South China Sea that are within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ). According to defense and security expert Raymond Powell, based on their automatic tracking system or ATS, at least seven Chinese maritime militia ships were sighted 3 to 5 nautical miles off Pag-asa (Thitu) Island while the Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) BRP Melchora Aquino is anchored off the island. "Philippine Coast Guard ship BRP Melchora Aquino should get a good view when the sun comes up, assuming they remain within 3 to 5 nm (and well within Pag-asa's territorial sea)," Powell posted on Twitter on Tuesday. Fifteen probable China maritime militia and/or fishing ships were visible in Iroquois Reef, which is inside the [...]
Marcos: PH ending all involvement with ICC
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the government has no other recourse than to disengage from any contact with the International Criminal Court (ICC) after the tribunal rejected the Philippines' request to suspend the investigation into the Duterte administration's war on drugs pending a ruling on Manila's main appeal against the resumption of the probe. "We don't have a next move. That is the extent of our involvement with the ICC. That ends all our involvement with the ICC," Marcos told reporters on Tuesday, saying "the appeal has failed." "There is nothing more that we can do in the government and so at this point we essentially are disengaging from any contact, from any communication I guess with the ICC," he said. "We cannot cooperate with [...]
Taiwan told to ‘pack up and leave’ Honduras after ties severed
The flags of Taiwan and Honduras flutter in the wind at a park in Tegucigalpa, Honduras March 26, 2023. REUTERS/Fredy Rodriguez TEGUCIGALPA — Taiwan must vacate its embassy in Honduras within 30 days, a senior Honduran official said on Monday, after President Xiomara Castro severed ties with Taiwan in favor of China in a bid for more investment and jobs from the Asian giant. Deputy Foreign Minister Antonio Garcia issued the order on local television on Monday, following the government’s announcement over the weekend that it had opened formal diplomatic relations with Beijing while simultaneously ending its decades-long relationship with Taiwan. Castro’s main conservative opposition later announced it would reverse the opening to China if it regains power. China has long-argued that democratically ruled Taiwan is part of [...]
Biden signs executive order restricting use of commercial spyware
A woman checks the website of Israel-made Pegasus spyware at an office in the Cypriot capital Nicosia in July 2021 [File: Mario Goldman/AFP] United States President Joe Biden has signed an executive order restricting the government’s use of commercial spyware technology that has been utilised to target political dissent around the globe. The move on Monday comes more than a year after the Biden administration imposed sanctions on the Israeli spyware manufacturer NSO Group, which has been at the forefront of global discussions of spyware abuse. Its Pegasus software has been linked to the surveillance of hundreds of political figures, journalists and human rights advocates. “Misuse of these powerful surveillance tools has not been limited to authoritarian regimes,” the White House said in a statement. “Democratic governments also [...]
DOH cautions against heat exhaustion, reminds public to stay hydrated
Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash The Department of Health has cautioned the public against heat exhaustion now that summer is officially here in the Philippines. According to Sam Nielsen's report on DZBB Super Radyo, heat exhaustion occurs when exposed to high temperatures and is usually accompanied by dehydration. Some symptoms to look out for include dark-colored urine, confusion, dizziness, fatigue, headache, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, pale skin, excessive sweating, and rapid heartbeat. Left untreated, heat exhaustion may progress to heat stroke, which in turn can damage the brain and other parts of the body and cause death. To prevent heat exhaustion, drink lots of water, go to a cool place, rest, stop any activity, and ask for emergency help if needed.
3 Chinese, 1 Vietnamese held for allegedly kidnapping, killing Tsinoy
MANILA — Four foreign nationals — three Chinese and one Vietnamese — were arrested by the Anti-Kidnapping Group of the Philippine National Police (PNP-AKG) for their alleged abduction and murder of a Chinese-Filipino businessman in Quezon City. The PNP-AKG said the body of 62-year-old Mario Uy was recovered in the municipality of Tanza, Cavite province, on March 22, four days after he was kidnapped on March 18. The suspects—Chinese nationals Bei Huimin, Jielong Shen and Sun XiaoHui, and Vietnamese Hong Puc Le—were arrested on March 23 in an operation led by the Anti-Kidnapping Group after the three Chinese suspects withdrew the ransom money at a bank in Parañaque City. The Vietnamese national, whose bank account was used for the deposit of the P560,000 in ransom money given by [...]
US dictates the terms of EDCA – Bayan Muna
Metro Manila— The Marcos administration has been misleading the Filipinos on the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) by letting the United States dictate the terms, Bayan Muna said on Sunday. The EDCA expansion has allowed the creation of four new US troop bases in the Philippines on top of the existing five. Bayan Muna Chairman Neri Colmenares cited two articles of the EDCA that are allegedly disadvantageous to the Philippines. According to Article 4, “the prepositioned materiel of the US forces shall be for the exclusive use of the US forces, and full title to all such equipment, supplies and materiel remains with the US. US forces shall have control over the access to and disposition of such prepositioned materiel.” Colmenares pointed out that Article 4 lets the US store [...]
Government prepares for possible rice shortage amid El Niño
In a radio interview yesterday, Agriculture Assistant Secretary and deputy spokesman Rex Estoperez said the DA treats El Niño just like other calamities as its effects on agricultural production could be similar to typhoons. STAR / File MANILA — The government is preparing for the worst-case scenario on the country’s rice supply amid the threat of El Niño phenomenon, a ranking official of the Department of Agriculture (DA) said. In a radio interview yesterday, Agriculture Assistant Secretary and deputy spokesman Rex Estoperez said the DA treats El Niño just like other calamities as its effects on agricultural production could be similar to typhoons. “The impact could be similar if we have calamities like typhoons as it could affect our rice production. The NFA (National Food Authority) is tasked to [...]
Resigned SRA chief must speak the truth – senator
David John Thaddeus Alba STAR / File MANILA — Resigned Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) chief David Thaddeus Alba should come out and tell the truth about the sugar importation issue or he might end up “holding the bag,” Sen. Risa Hontiveros said yesterday. But Alba, in a statement, insisted he resigned for “purely health-related reasons.” Hontiveros said insiders claimed the SRA is only being used as a rubber stamp to legitimize the preferential treatment for favored importers. “We urge former administrator Alba to come out and speak his truth. We urge others to come out if they have information as well. If not, you will be left holding the bag,” she added. “I am also urging Malacañang to strengthen the value chain of agricultural development, not the value [...]
‘God, guns and Trump’: Thousands turn out for Texas rally
EPA/A Donald Trump fan dresses up as the former president at the rally Donald Trump may be facing a possible arrest in New York, and posting increasingly menacing statements about "death and destruction" on his social media website, but at a Trump campaign rally on a sunny afternoon in Waco, Texas, it was business as usual. Thousands of the former president's supporters wandered through Trump merchandise tents, where they bought t-shirts emblazoned with "God, guns and Trump" and "Trump won". Then they packed onto the asphalt tarmac of the local airport hours before Mr Trump's expected arrival. They waited in the heat as songs by Abba, Frank Sinatra and Bon Jovi blared on the loudspeakers and cheered as a litany of familiar Trump supporters took turns warming-up the crowd. [...]
Du30 tops Pahayag poll of possible Senate candidates in 2025 elections
If senatorial elections were held today, former President Rodrigo Duterte would top the race if he were a candidate – as indicated in a survey conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia, which released the results this week. In a statement, the polling firm said its Pahayag Quarter 1 2023 voting disposition survey contained 34 names and showed that the former President got 55 percent of respondents to top the would-be Senate list. The list is also composed of reelectionists, new names, and “balik Senado” (returning senators). The next senatorial elections are in year 2025. Duterte, who stepped down as President in May last year, received high support from Mindanao (66%) and among 30 to 39-year-olds (68%). Dr. Willie Ong, a candidate for vice president in 2022 and the Senate in 2019, [...]
PSA: Fishers, farmers, rural folk still poorest
Fisherfolk, farmers, children, and persons living in rural areas remained the poorest sectors in terms of poverty incidence in 2021, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported. Based on the data released by the PSA on Friday, fisherfolk had the highest poverty incidence in 2021 at 30.6 percent, followed by farmers at 30%, children at 26.4%, and individuals residing in rural areas at 25.7%. These sectors also recorded the highest poverty incidences in 2015 and 2018, and “had the highest proportion of individuals belonging to families with income below the official poverty thresholds compared to the other basic sectors,” the agency said. This developed as the economy remains the main concern in both the macro and micro issues in the Pahayag Quarter 1 (PQ1-23) survey conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia, with [...]
19 killed in US strikes on Iran-linked groups in Syria: new toll
BEIRUT, LEBANON— The death toll from retaliatory US strikes on Iran-linked groups in Syria following a deadly drone attack has risen to 19, a war monitor said Saturday, as Washington insisted it is not seeking conflict with Tehran. Further rocket attacks by Iran-backed militias took place late Friday, prompting more strikes by coalition warplanes, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported. Washington carried out the initial strikes after the Pentagon said a US contractor died -- and another contractor and five military personnel were wounded -- by a drone "of Iranian origin" that struck a US-led coalition base near Hasakeh in northeastern Syria on Thursday. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that, at President Joe Biden's direction, he had ordered the "precision air strikes... in eastern Syria against [...]
DoH launches anti-tuberculosis drive
The Department of Health (DoH) has launched a multi-sectoral action plan to combat tuberculosis with the aim of increasing the number of Filipinos getting treatment for the chronic lung disease. Called the Philippine Acceleration Action Plan for Tuberculosis (PAAP-TB), it also aims to provide wider access to health services, improving education and public information programs and even social and labor protection, with the goal of eradicating the bacterial disease in 2030. Acting Health Secretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said TB remained a pressing concern not just for the health sector but for the country in general, and the Philippines remained far from reaching targets of key indicators in the fight against TB in the country. The Philippines is among the eight countries in the world that accounts for two-thirds [...]
PH, China agree to manage differences over SCS through diplomacy
MANILA – The Philippines and China have agreed to manage their differences and handle emergencies on the South China Sea (SCS) through “friendly consultations,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Friday. In a statement, the DFA said both sides explored ways to advance maritime cooperation “directed at confidence-building and managing tensions” during the 7th Bilateral Consultations Mechanism (BCM) in Manila. “During the BCM, the Philippines and China reaffirmed their adherence to international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and their commitment to peace and stability in the South China Sea,” it said. “Both sides recognized their obligations under the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and stressed their resolve to finalize an effective and [...]
US access to EDCA sites ‘not unlimited’
Cesar Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga (Courtesy of Radyo Pilipinas) MANILA – The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States does not carry unlimited access to agreed locations, the Department of National Defense (DND) clarified Saturday. DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said the use of EDCA sites must be mutually agreed upon by both countries. “There are constant consultations with the Mutual Defense Board and Security Exchange Board wherein the US side and the Philippine side are in discussion to plan out activities and these activities determine when the sites are going to be used, how they will be used, what can be brought in, and what they will do in the sites, so it’s not unlimited,” he said at the Saturday News Forum [...]
TikTok attacked for China ties as US lawmakers push for ban
TikTok CEO Chew Shou Zi faced relentless questioning by US lawmakers for more than five hours, over the app's alleged ties to China and its harmful content to teens. TikTok CEO Chew Shou Zi testifies before the House Energy and Commerce Committee hearing on "TikTok: How Congress Can Safeguard American Data Privacy and Protect Children from Online Harms," on Capitol Hill, Mar 23, 2023, in Washington, DC. (Photo: AFP/OLIVIER DOULIERY) WASHINGTON— US lawmakers on Thursday (Mar 23) battered TikTok's chief executive about potential Chinese influence over the platform and said its short videos were damaging children's mental health, reflecting bipartisan concerns over the app's power over Americans. CEO Chew Shou Zi's testimony before Congress did little to assuage US worries over TikTok's China-based parent company ByteDance and added fresh [...]
China, PH assess ties as sea row deepens
Theresa Lazaro (L), Philippines' Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and Asian Affairs of the Department of Foreign Affairs, shakes hands with China's Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong prior to the start of the Philippines-China Foreign Ministry consultation meeting in Manila on March 23, 2023. TED ALJIBE / POOL / AFP Senior Chinese and Filipino diplomats met in Manila on Thursday to review their relations amid thorny issues, including Beijing's alarm over a Philippine decision to allow the United States military to expand its presence to a northern region facing the Taiwan Strait and escalating spats in the disputed South China Sea. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong and Philippine Foreign Undersecretary Theresa Lazaro led the talks aimed at assessing overall relations on Thursday. The discussions would focus [...]
Philippines facing water crisis – Marcos
President Marcos speaks during the opening of the sixth edition of the Water Philippines Conference and Exposition in Pasay City. Ernie Peñaredondo MANILA — President Marcos has signed an executive order creating a water resource management office (WRMO) as part of efforts to address what he called a “water crisis” threatening the country. “When they say water is life, it’s not just a cliché, it’s a truism. And it is something that we must always keep in mind especially now. And that’s why... I just signed an executive order wherein we have created the Office of Water Management,” the President said yesterday at the opening of the sixth edition of the Water Philippines Conference and Exposition in Pasay City. He said a water supply problem would have a “debilitating” [...]
25 nations to join world’s first green travel mart in PH
FILE PHOTO: The 405-hectare Sasmuan Bangkung Malapad Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area is in the heart of 3,667-hectare Sasmuan Pampanga Coastal Wetlands, designated as internationally important under the criteria of the Ramsar Convention. (DENR Central Luzon photo) MANILA — Twenty-five nations are expected to participate in the International Ecotourism Travel Mart (IETM) in the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said Thursday. The DOT will be co-hosting the IETM in Silang, Cavite from March 29 to April 2. In a statement, the agency said it is set to promote the country’s ecotourism destination during the IETM exhibit. “A key event in the IETM is the two-day ecotourism forum where participants learn about best practices, do’s and don’ts about authentic ecotourism to protect nature and biodiversity while ensuring that [...]
‘Game over’: Gatchalian wants permanent ban on POGOs
INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO MANILA— “It’s game over for the POGO industry,” Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said during the Senate plenary session on Wednesday. Gatchalian, chair of the ways and means panel, was presenting his report on the findings of his committee in its inquiry into the socio-economic impact of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs). Based on the committee findings, he said: “The Filipino people stand to lose more than they will gain from allowing POGOs to continue operating in the Philippines. In light of this, we recommend the permanent banning of offshore gaming operations in the Philippines.” ‘Unstable’ business model The business model of POGOs is “inherently unstable due to the outsized foreign regulatory and political risks involved,” Gatchalian said. He noted that the panel had found enough ground [...]
Ex-US diplomat gets 15 years for sexual abuse of Philippine minors
This undated file photo shows children playing. UNICEF / Joshua Estey, File MANILA — A former United States diplomat who sexually abused minors while working in the Philippines was sentenced to 15 years in prison last Friday. The US Department of Justice said Dean Edward Cheves, 63, who served at the US embassy in Manila from 2017 to 2021, was found guilty of illicit sexual conduct with minors in the Philippines. From December 2020 to March 2021, Cheves used a messaging application installed in his cell phone to chat with a young Filipino, then aged 15 to 16, whom he paid to create and send to him sexually explicit images. In February 2021, Cheves engaged in sex acts on two separate occasions with another 16-year-old he met online. The Justice Department also said that Cheves used [...]
‘P85/kilo sugar is economic sabotage’
Workers organized different kinds of repacked sugar at a store in Quezon City on August 11, 2022. STAR / Michael Varcas MANILA— Selling sugar at P85 a kilo is nothing less than large-scale agricultural smuggling and economic sabotage and is outrageous, Sen. Risa Hontiveros said yesterday. At a press conference at the Senate, Hontiveros lamented that selling sugar at P85 a kilo could mean a P32 per kilo profit, which she described as “nothing short of outrageous. It’s like winning the lottery 50 times on the super lotto without even putting a bet.” “You can actually buy refined sugar wholesale for P25 per kilo in Thailand. If you are a sensible importer, you know that you would already get a decent profit if you sell sugar at P61, including [...]
‘Unlimited possibilities’: Key takeaways from Putin-Xi summit
Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands after speaking to the media during a signing ceremony following their talks at The Grand Kremlin Palace, in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, March 21, 2023. (Mikhail Tereshchenko, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP) MOSCOW— Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Chinese leader Xi Jinping for two days of closely-watched talks on Monday (Mar 20) and Tuesday. Here are five key takeaways from the Putin-Xi summit: "A NEW ERA" The two days of talks at the Kremlin were heavy on pomp and ceremony as Putin and Xi hailed a "new era" in the two countries' relationship. The Russian leader said that bilateral cooperation "has truly unlimited possibilities and prospects" and toasted the "prosperity" of Russian and Chinese people at [...]
Padilla to push for political changes in 1987 Constitution in 2024
MANILA— Senator Robin Padilla will push for amending the political provisions of the 1987 Constitution in 2024, a year ahead of the 2025 midterm elections. Currently, Padilla is focusing on changing the Charter’s economic provisions “to allow foreign businesses to directly invest in a more conducive landscape.” The senator was asked in an ANC interview on Tuesday whether or not he is prioritizing amending the political structure. “Isusulong ko ‘yan sa 2024 para sa 2025 [elections],” Padilla, Senate committee on constitutional amendments and revision of codes chairperson, replied. (I will push for that in 2024 for the 2025 elections.) Padilla, along with his party the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino – Lakas ng Bayan, wants a federal form of government in the country. Padilla held hearings on Charter change (Cha-cha) in the Senate [...]
US shows sea supremacy in visit of warship
The amphibious assault ship of the United States Navy, the USS America (LHA-6), is seen docked at the Manila South Harbor pier, Sunday. The USS America patrols the Indo-Pacific region as part of the America Ready Group, while carrying MV-22B Ospreys, F-35B Lightning multirole aircrafts, attack/support helicopters, and part of the Marine expeditionary unit. PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA In a show of supremacy in the seas, a US warship, considered the first of the America-class amphibious assault ships and the fourth warship to bear this name, made its first port call in Manila but clarified that it was here for "rest and recreation" for its servicemen. The USS America (LHA 6), with 1,100 on board, is docked at Pier 15 of the Manila South [...]
Villar urges Senate to pass the Maharlika Investment Fund bill
The Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) bill, Philippines’ first-ever sovereign wealth fund, is designed to catalyze economic development by mobilizing government financial assets that are otherwise limited in use by current legal frameworks. "With the Fund’s dual objectives of optimizing financial returns and accelerating the development of infrastructure and other priority projects in key sectors, this will be an important instrument to generate consistent and stable investment returns to advance the Philippines’ long-term development goals,’’ Senator Mark A. Villar said in his sponsorship speech seeking the passage of the MIF bill by Congress. In his speech, Villar, chairman of the Senate trade committee, said the MIF would support the administration’s economic goals set in the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework, the eight-point Socioeconomic Agenda, and the Philippine Development Plan [...]
Bill allowing married women to retain maiden name gets House nod
MANILA – Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Tuesday said the final reading approval of a measure allowing married women to retain their maiden surnames is a "relevant and timely" move to prove the commitment of the House of Representatives to promoting equality of men and women before the law. “It is not enough that our jurisprudence says that a married woman has an option, but not a duty, to use the surname of the husband. It is important that we institutionalize that they can decide to retain both their maiden name and surname,” Romualdez said. With an overwhelming 277 votes, the chamber approved on the third reading House Bill 4605, which seeks to amend a portion of the country’s 72-year-old New Civil Code (NCC). The bill seeks to [...]
Divorce bill to make PH conform to global norm: solon
PNA art by Meyo de Jesus MANILA – The committee approval of the bill reinstituting absolute divorce for plenary debates will put the country at the "threshold of joining the universality of absolute divorce in the community of nations", a lawmaker said on Tuesday. Albay Representative Edcel Lagman said the divorce bill will give spouses, especially wives, the option of getting out of an "irremediably broken marriage" and a chance to start over as the House Committee on Population and Family Relations gave its thumbs up to the proposal. "While it is said that marriages are solemnized in heaven, the fact is some marriages plummet into hell because of human frailty and imperfections. The Divorce Act seeks to redeem couples, particularly the abused or abandoned wives, [...]
Tuberculosis is afflicting young Filipinos – expert
A health expert expressed concern over the rising incidents of tuberculosis (TB) among young Filipinos. Department of Health Disease Prevention and Control Bureau TB adviser Dr. Ronald Allan Fabella said 12 percent of the total number of TB patients in the country are young Filipinos. "Only by detecting and treating TB cases will stop transmission and bring down the number of cases," Fabella told The Manila Times. Fabella said diagnosing TB for patients under 15 is a challenge because children can't produce sputum for confirmatory tests. The World Health Organization estimates that around 741,000 Filipinos have tuberculosis, or around 650 TB cases per 100,000, with the high number due to delayed reporting brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. Fabella said that while the number of diagnosed Filipinos with TB [...]
PH, US troops to hold rocket system live fire drills on April 1
Photo courtesy of Philippine Army MANILA – Filipino and American troops participating in this year's "Salaknib" exercises are set to join a rocket system live fire exercise at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on April 1. "(Army Artillery Regiment) AAR's (Multi-Launch Rocket System) MLRS Battery personnel and their US counterparts are set to conduct a rocket system live-fire exercise on April 1, 2023, at the regiment's long-range precision firing exercise area in Fort Magsaysay," Philippine Army (PA) spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad in a statement Sunday night. Last March 16, the personnel from the AAR's MLRS Battery together with the US Multi-Domain Task Force commenced the rocket system subject matter expert exchange (SMEE) at AAR headquarters in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija. Trinidad said the rocket system SMEE is geared [...]
Rice, vegetables, meat top wasted foods in PH
Vegetables. File photo. Rice, vegetables, and meat are the three most wasted foods in Filipino households, a study by the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DoST-FNRI) showed. The 2018 Expanded National Nutrition Survey found that households with the highest rice consumption were more likely to have rice wastage than households with low consumption. The highest rice wastage was found in households with five or more members, those residing in rural areas, and in households with a head whose age ranges from 50 to 69 years old. Households with the highest vegetable consumption are also likely to have a bigger vegetable wastage than those with the lowest consumption. "This implies that households incur more wastes when higher quantities are purchased, which most probably are [...]
P17.7-B allocated to support PH tourism infra dev’t – DBM
Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman (Courtesy of the DBM Facebook page) MANILA , PHILIPPINES— A total of PHP17.7 billion has been allocated in this year’s national budget to fund the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP), the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) announced Thursday. In a press release, the DBM said this amount is PHP602 million higher than the PHP17.087 billion from last year’s budget. DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman emphasized the importance of providing funding support to vital infrastructure projects, which serve as the backbone of the economy. "President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has been very consistent with his pronouncements that infrastructure development is a priority under this administration. And so we, at DBM, shall do all we can to support the realization of [...]
PH agri climate resilience project gets P2.2B in UN funding
COMPOSITE IMAGE: Daniella MARIE AGACER FROM INQ STOCK PHOTOS MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines—named the most disaster-prone country in the world—has been recently granted a P2.2 billion investment to help adapt agricultural systems to climate change. The World Risk Risk Report 2022 ranked the Philippines as the most disaster-prone among 193 countries, with a very high vulnerability score of 54.81. This is based on the susceptibility of populations to damage from extreme natural disasters events or the negative impacts of climate change. In the Philippines, which is expected to experience increasingly more frequent and catastrophic extreme weather events, nearly 10 million people work in the agriculture sector. Previous studies revealed that the impact of climate change on Philippine agriculture is devastating. The country incurred P290B in agricultural damages in the past [...]
Oil spill affects 61 tourism sites, DOT raises alarm
The Department of Tourism on Wednesday raised the alarm over 61 tourism sites—including beach resorts—that are affected by the massive oil spill in Oriental Mindoro. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco raised this concern during the Tourism Stakeholders’ National Summit on Wednesday. “It’s an ongoing collaborative effort to manage the situation that is led by the DENR (Department of the Environment and Natural Resources) and we are here to assist our tourism workers,” she added. The oils spill from the sunken tanker MT Princess Empress, which was carrying 800,000 liters of industrial fuel, has already affected 70 barangays in the region, and will surpass the devastation caused by the 2006 Guimaras oil spill, said Senator Cynthia A. Villar. She pushed for assistance to residents who are affected by the oil spill [...]
Philippines express support for AUKUS as it promotes ‘regional peace, stability’
US President Joe Biden (C), British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (R) and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (L) hold a press conference during the AUKUS summit on March 13, 2023, at Naval Base Point Loma in San Diego California. AUKUS is a trilateral security pact announced on September 15, 2021, for the Indo-Pacific region. AFP / Jim Watson Noting the importance of partnerships and collaboration within the region, the Philippines expressed appreciation to AUKUS partners – composed of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States – for the reassurance that recent developments will help ensure regional peace and stability. The statement comes just days after Australia announced plans to purchase up to five US nuclear-powered submarines in the next years and work with the UK and the [...]
Padilla sets Cha-cha public forum, Speaker pushes economic reform
The Senate committee on constitutional amendments and revision of laws will conduct a public hearing on Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) 6, which calls for a constitutional convention that would propose changes to the Charter’s economic provisions. House Speaker Martin Romualdez, for his part, said the 301 lawmakers who voted to amend the restrictive provisions of the Constitution are “in a rush.” “If we do our jobs quickly, this is because the people’s interest is at stake. Not politics but the country’s economy. Not election, but the mission to lift fellow Filipinos out of poverty,” Romualdez said. “When did working quickly for the country become a sin?” he added. Rep. Rufus Rodriguez of Cagayan de Oro, who chairs the House constitutional amendments committee, said his Senate counterpart Robinhood Padilla [...]
Marcos: ₱20/kilo rice price goal eyed ‘ASAP,’ but weather a factor
Metro Manila, Philippines — The government aims to fulfill the promise of lowering rice prices to ₱20 per kilo "as soon as possible," President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Thursday, but noted how some factors, including weather, have become an issue. Marcos made the remark when asked about his administration's timetable for the goal, one of the aspirations he floated during his presidential campaign. "Lahat ng timetable ko, yesterday if not sooner. Lahat 'yan, ASAP. We'll see," Marcos said in a chance interview with reporters in Camarines Sur. "Kasi minamalas din tayo sa weather eh, kaya hindi mo matiyak kung ano 'yung magiging production, ano 'yung magiging supply," he added. "We'll keep working on it." [Translation: All of my timetable, it's yesterday if not sooner. All of them, ASAP. We'll see. Because [...]
P175-B bridge to shorten travel from Cavite to Bataan
A 32-KILOMETER-LONG interisland bridge that will cut travel time between the provinces of Bataan and Cavite from more than three hours to just 20 to 30 minutes will break ground later this year, Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan announced Tuesday. DPWH Secretary Bonoan said the Department of Public Works and Highways informed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during a sectoral meeting in Malacañang on Tuesday that the project will be implemented this year, with its detailed engineering plan already 70 percent completed. "The detailed engineering is now ongoing; it's about 70 percent complete. We told the President it would be ready within the year to ground break the implementation of this very significant bridge," Bonoan told reporters at a Palace press briefing. The construction of the bridge, to [...]
House bill seeks P750 wage hike
A BILL filed in the House of Representatives seeks to raise the salaries of private sector workers by P750. House Bill 7568 was filed on Monday by Gabriela Women's Party Rep. Arlene Brosas, ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro, and Kabataan Rep. Raoul Manuel. Granting a P750 across-the-board nationwide increase "in the salary rates of private sector workers becomes extremely urgent to close the gap between the current minimum wage and the calculated family living wage across regions," the bill's explanatory note stated. PHOTOS BY J. GERARD SEGUIA The bill mandates all private sector employers, "whether agricultural or non-agricultural," to pay an across-the-board wage increase of P750 "regardless of the employment status and position of workers and regardless of the industry classification and location of the enterprise." The [...]
DoE to Filipinos: Conserve energy
ENERGY Secretary Raphael Lotilla. File Photo Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla has urged Filipinos to observe efficient use of electricity to help ensure the availability of sufficient power during the dry season when higher temperature triggers an increase in demand. On the sidelines of Makati Business Club's event in Makati City Monday, Lotilla said that based on the available supply and the scheduled maintenance of different power generation plants, yellow alerts are expected especially during the dry season. Based on the Department of Energy's power outlook for the year, the first yellow alert is expected to occur in March in the Luzon grid. Data from the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) showed that for March 14, the Luzon grid will have an operating margin of [...]
PH gov’t campaigns for media literacy as tool vs fake news
Pixabay PHILIPPINES— The Marcos admin is set to carry out a digital media literacy campaign to equip the most vulnerable communities with knowledge and tools "to be discerning of the truth," a Palace Communications official said. Communications Undersecretary Cherbett Karen Maralit said this during the CyberSafe Against Fake News: Being Smart, Being Safe and Staying Ahead! Ensuring Women and Girls a Safe Online Experience, a side event to the 67th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW67) in New York. In her remarks, Maralit noted that the Philippine Congress had tasked the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) to address the growing concern about misinformation and disinformation, especially in the digital landscape. "Backed by the budgetary support from the Philippine Congress and its [...]
EDCA site in Pampanga Basa base set for $24-M rehab
MANILA, PHILIPPINES— The United States Embassy in Manila said a USD24-million airstrip extension and rehabilitation project will break ground at the Cesar Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga on March 20. ENHANCEMENT. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (2nd from left) graces the joint acceptance, turnover, and blessing of land and air assets acquired by the Philippine Air Force at the Cesar Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga in November 2022. The base will undergo a USD24-million airstrip extension and rehabilitation project beginning March 20, 2023 under the Philippine-US Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. (PNA file photo) The military base is one of the five previously identified sites where future facilities and structures would be built under the 2014 Philippine-US Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). The four other “agreed locations” [...]
Overstaying Chinese arrested for presenting PH passport
Bureau of Immigration (BI) officers at Boracay Island gateway Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (Caticlan) in Malay, Aklan intercepted a male Chinese national who attempted to depart for Taiwan using a Philippine passport. In a news release on Sunday, the BI said Zhou Jintao, 24, presented himself before BI officers using a passport under the name Janssen Gonzales Tan. Apart from his passport, he presented a Philippine person with disability, postal and tax identification number identification cards, National Bureau of Investigation clearance, and birth certificate indicating that he was born in Sibulan, Santa Cruz, Davao Del Sur to a Filipino mother and a Chinese father. However, upon inspection, the officer noted that Zhou was unable to speak Filipino or any local language. During the interview, he admitted that [...]
19,000 families affected by oil spill; DSWD to continue giving food packs —Sec. Gatchalian
An aerial view shows the oil spill from the sunken fuel tanker MT Princess Empress on the shores of Pola, Oriental Mindoro on March 8, 2023. Citing information from experts, Pola Mayor Jennifer Cruz said the cleanup may take six months to a year. REUTERS/ Eloisa Lopez The number of families affected by the oil spill from from the sunken MT Princess Empress in Oriental Mindoro has reached 19,000, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian said on Saturday. "'Yung bagong tala ni [Oriental Mindoro] Governor [Humerlito 'Bonz'] Dolor, 'yung provincial level, nasa 19,000," Gatchalian said in an interview on Dobol B TV. Gatchalian said the DSWD started giving food packs to affected families. "Nagsimula kami sa food packs. 10,000 na apektadong pamilya, pero recently umakyat [...]
BSP mandates full adoption of Philippine QR Code standard by July 1
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is mandating the full adoption of the Philippine QR Code standard by July 1, 2023. In a statement on Friday, the BSP said its policy-setting Monetary Board has approved the guidelines that will facilitate the full transition of all quick response (QR) code-enabled payment services to the National QR Code Standard, or “QR Ph.” QR Ph is the country’s QR code standard, based on the Europay-Mastercard-VISA (EMV) standard, a global standard for secure payments. It was developed to standardize the use of QR codes. The BSP said the guidelines mandate BSP-supervised financial institutions (BSFIs) acting as payment service providers (PSPs) and offering QR code-enabled payment services to use and display QR codes on their internet and mobile channels starting July 1, 2023. The [...]
P1.20 hike in gas pump price seen; Meralco rates up
Pump prices may go up on Tuesday by up to P1.20 per liter for gasoline and P0.35 per liter for diesel based on the first four days of global oil trading data. The estimate by one industry source dovetailed with a statement from the director of the Oil Industry Management Bureau of the Department of Energy, Rodela Romero, who said they expect an increase in the prices of gasoline and diesel and a minimal rollback or no adjustment for kerosene. Meanwhile, the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) said its customers would experience higher rates this month by P0.5453 per kWh, bringing the overall rate for a typical household to P11.4348 per kWh from P10.8895 per kWh in February. Meralco said for residential customers consuming 200 kWh, the adjustment is equivalent [...]
NEDA approves 194 high-impact projects
NEDA meet President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. presides over the NEDA board meeting in Malacañang on Thursday, March 9, 2023. During the meeting, 194 priority projects were approved. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the helm, has green-lighted 194 high-impact priority projects under the Infrastructure Flagship Projects (IFPs). It also approved amendments to the 2013 Joint Venture (JV) Guidelines that are seen to further strengthen the government's "Build Better More" program. NEDA Director-General Arsenio Balisacan said the new IFP list and the amendments to the JV guidelines will improve the country's competitiveness and make it a prime investment destination in the region. The new IFP list mentions 194 projects totaling around P9 trillion, the bulk of which are [...]
Beijing chides US for ‘discrediting’ PH-China economic ties
MANILA , PHILIPPINES – The Chinese Embassy in Manila called out Washington DC on Friday for “discrediting” China’s economic relations with the Philippines. The statement is in response to a Philippine Daily Inquirer report citing State Department Undersecretary Victoria Nuland questioning whether Beijing’s “promises” in the past had actually generated jobs for Filipinos. “China and the Philippines are natural partners for the geographical proximity, close kinship, and complementary advantages,” the embassy said. “In recent years, under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China and the Philippines have deepened the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and the ‘Build, Build, Build’ and ‘Build Better More’ programs of the Philippines,” it added. Further, it touted the various government-to-government cooperation projects and recently signed agreements between Beijing [...]
Rise in ocean plastic pollution ‘unprecedented’ since 2005
Paris, France— Plastic pollution in the world's oceans has reached "unprecedented levels" over the past 15 years, a new study has found, calling for a legally binding international treaty to stop the harmful waste. Ocean plastic pollution is a persistent problem around the globe -- animals may become entangled in larger pieces of plastic like fishing nets, or ingest microplastics that eventually enter the food chain to be consumed by humans. Research published on Wednesday found that there are an estimated 170 trillion pieces of plastic, mainly microplastics, on the surface of the world's oceans today, much of it discarded since 2005. "Plastic pollution in the world's oceans during the past 15 years has reached unprecedented levels," said the study, published in open-access journal PLOS One. The [...]
WHO fires Manila-based regional director over allegations of misconduct
Metro Manila, Philippines— The World Health Organization (WHO) has dismissed the regional director for its Western Pacific office headquartered in Manila over allegations of misconduct. In a statement dated March 8, the WHO said the accusations covered the latter half of 2021 and 2022. It did not directly name Dr. Takeshi Kasai in the statement, only referring to him by his title. “In line with the Organization’s policy of zero tolerance for abusive conduct, the allegations were investigated and subsequently reviewed in accordance with the normal procedures applicable to all WHO staff members,” the WHO wrote. “These procedures resulted in findings of misconduct,” it added. The WHO did not elaborate on the claims made against Kasai, but the Associated Press (AP) reported last year that dozens of staffers have accused [...]
PH-US defense, foreign ministerial meet set in April
The Defense and Foreign ministerial meetings (2+2) between the Philippines and the United States have been scheduled for April 2023, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) bared Wednesday. The announcement came days following a meeting between Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland in Manila. The DFA said both sides agreed to expand the scope of the 2+2 to include broader security considerations, such as food security, energy, cybersecurity, telecommunications and supply chains. The upcoming meet will be hosted by the United States and will be co-led by the Philippine Departments of Foreign Affairs and Defense and the US Departments of State and Defense. Manalo and Nuland who met last March 6 had underscored the importance of the Philippine-US alliance [...]
Palace bares new set of appointees in gov’t
MANILA – Malacañang on Thursday announced the latest appointments in several departments under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) released to reporters a document containing a list of names as of March 6. Among the appointees was former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) spokesperson and Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya, who was named National Security Council (NSC) assistant director general. Malaya has served in nine government agencies during his stint in public service, including the Office of the President, the Department of Education and the Office of the Solicitor General. Former Quezon City councilor Diorella Maria "Lala" Sotto-Antonio was reappointed as chairperson of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB). She was first appointed in July 2022 which is [...]
PUV strike over, trips resume
Manibela, Piston declare end of protest after Palace meeting Transport groups Manibela and PISTON have ended what should have been a week-long nationwide transport strike after a meeting at the Palace on Tuesday. Public utility vehicles will resume plying their routes today (Wednesday) following a two-day strike. Manibela head Mar Valbuena and PISTON president Mody Floranda met yesterday with Palace officials, including Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil, a former chairperson of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board. “There will be no phaseout of jeepneys. The king of the road will remain,” Valbuena told Manila Standard in an interview. He said this was based on the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., as relayed by the Palace officials they met at the Office of the Executive Secretary. “For traditional jeepneys [...]
Sara meets with Lao, Czech envoys
Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte deliver a speech during the 52nd Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) conference in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday.February 8, 2023. STAR / Jesse Bustos Manila, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte yesterday met with ambassadors from Laos and Czech Republic to discuss ties between the Philippines and their respective countries. During her meeting with Lao Ambassador Sonexay Vannaxay, Duterte said they committed to strengthen the diplomatic relations between the two countries as members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Duterte said Vannaxay identified education and healthcare as among Laos’ areas of interest in the Philippines. The Vice President said her meeting with Czech Republic Ambassador Jana Šedivá focused on the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between the Philippines [...]
Gov’t eyes new work hours from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Government agencies may soon adjust their office hours to 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Mondays to Thursdays with work-from-home setups on Fridays, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said Tuesday. In a Palace press conference, Diokno revealed that the Department of Energy (DOE) is planning to implement daylight saving time within its agency to save electricity and promote energy efficiency. He said this will be part of the government’s short-term interventions to mitigate high inflation in the country. Diokno said this proposal was presented before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during a Cabinet meeting at Malacañan Palace earlier in the day. “We also presented to the President that it’s important to address energy because there are complaints that energy cost in the Philippines is expensive,” he said. “One of the [...]
PCG says a month not enough for oil spill cleanup
Metro Manila, Philippines— Cleaning up the oil spill from the motor tanker that sank in the waters off Oriental Mindoro would likely take more than a month, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Tuesday. PCG Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu cited the lack of manpower and equipment as the main challenges in cleanup operations. “Let us be honest and candid about it. One month time? Hindi ganun kadali ‘yan [It’s not that easy],” Abu said. Authorities are rushing to contain the oil spill from the sunken MT Princess Empress, as they warn of its impact on the environment and on the health of residents in Oriental Mindoro and nearby areas. The Department of Health (DOH) earlier said toxic chemicals from the spill can cause skin and lung complications, aside from [...]
House approves con-con bill on second reading
The House of Representatives on Tuesday approved on second reading House Bill 7352 which sets the composition of the constitutional convention (con-con) which will amend the 1987 Constitution. House Bill 7352 or the con-con bill, which is the implementing bill of Resolution of Both Houses 6 calling for a con-con to amend the 1987 Constitution, also provides delegates a P10,000 per day of attendance compensation during con-con proceedings. The con-con bill also provides that the con-con delegation will be composed of around 316 members, 80% of whom would be elected from congressional districts while 20% would be appointed by the President. Con-con delegates’ terms of office would run from December 1 this year to June 30, 2024. Aside from the P10,000 per day of attendance remuneration, each con-con delegate [...]
Gov’t debt now stands at P13.7 trillion
Government debt jumped in the first month of the year owing to higher domestic borrowings and weakening of the peso against the US dollar, data from the Bureau of the Treasury showed. As of January 2023, the national government’s outstanding debt stock stood at P13.698 trillion, up 14 percent from P12.029 trillion a year ago. Month-on-month, it also rose by 2.1 percent from P13.418 trillion last December. As of January 2023, the national government’s outstanding debt stock stood at P13.698 trillion, up 14 percent from P12.029 trillion a year ago. Month-on-month, it also rose by 2.1 percent from P13.418 trillion last December. Based on the Treasury data, 68.5 percent of the total debt portfolio of the government were domestic borrowings, while 31.5 percent was sourced overseas. At end-January, domestic [...]
PH can now export dried pili nuts to EU’s 27 member states
The Philippines can now export dried pili nuts to European Union’s (EU’s) 27 member states, the Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Tuesday, March 7. In a statement, the DA said the issuance of the European Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/267, signed on Feb. 8., allows dried pili nuts to be added to the Union’s list of novel foods that may be placed on the EU market after meeting the EU’s food safety and labeling requirements. photo: Department of Agriculture The agriculture department welcomed the EU issuance, which opens up new markets for the country’s pili industry. “The export of pili nut, which is considered a novel food or those that have not been significantly used for human consumption in the EU before May 1997, has been temporarily stopped following [...]
MMDA suspends number coding for Monday amid transport strike
(File photo) Transport strike The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority over the weekend announced the suspension of the expanded number coding scheme for Monday. In an advisory, the MMDA said the suspension of the Expanded Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP) will be suspended on March 6, as jeepney operators and drivers start the week-long transport holiday to protest the public utility vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program. “Nakahanda naman ang Metropolitan Manila Development Authority para magbigay ng libreng sakay sa mga pasahero na posibleng ma-stranded ng isang linggong tigil pasada simula sa Lunes,” it said. (The MMDA is ready to provide free rides to passengers who could possibly be stranded due to the week-long transport strike starting Monday.) The agency is mandated to implement programs, policies, and procedures to achieve public [...]
44 Chinese vessels swarm Pag-asa Island – PCG
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Saturday, March 4, spotted 44 Chinese vessels – including one each from their navy and coast guard – anchored near Pag-asa (Thitu) Island, the largest island in the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) which serves as the seat of the local government of Kalayaan town in Palawan. Photo: Philippine Coast Guard / PCG In a statement, the PCG said People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessel “UBN,” a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel with bow number 5203, and 42 suspected Chinese maritime militia (CMM) vessels were spotted approximately 4.5 to eight nautical (NM) miles from Pag-asa Island which are “clearly inside the land feature’s 12 nautical mile territorial sea.” “The PLA Navy vessel and CCG 5201 have been observed to be slowly loitering within the [...]
Divorce bill awaits committee approval
Albay First District Rep. Edcel Lagman. Photo from House of Representatives of the Philippines A consolidated substitute bill reinstating absolute divorce in the Philippines was approved on Thursday, March 2, 2023, by a technical working group (TWG) led by Albay First District Rep. Edcel Lagman. "I am elated to report that the Philippines is at the threshold of joining the community of nations upholding the universality of divorce," Lagman said in a statement on Friday. House Bills 78, 1021, 1593, 2593, 3843, 3885, 4957 and 4998, which seek to reinstate divorce as a mode of dissolving marriages and strengthening the civil effects of Church annulment, were previously approved in principle by the House Committee on Population and Family Relations, which is headed by Isabela Third District Rep. Ian Paul [...]
Galvez: EDCA meant for defense; US-Japan-PH trilateral deal sought
The Philippines’ Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States is aimed at improving the country’s defensive capabilities and is not meant for war, Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said. In a statement Thursday night, Galvez emphasized that the bilateral agreement does not seek to interfere with the domestic affairs of other nations. “The geopolitical situation is becoming more precarious by the day. Our projects under EDCA and our other defense partnerships are not intended for aggression. We are not preparing for war, rather we are aiming to develop our defense capabilities against eventualities and threats to our security,” he added. Meanwhile, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim believes it will be beneficial for all the member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) if the organization takes [...]
VP Sara: ‘We must continue empowering, inspiring other women’
WOMEN FOR WOMEN. Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte delivers her speech during the “Gamhanang Buwak: Flower Power” art exhibit on Wednesday (March 1, 2023). Duterte urged the women artists to continue inspire and empower other women. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the Vice President) MANILA , PHILIPPINES— The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday underscored upholding women’s rights as Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte urged women to provide inspiration and help empower other women. In a Facebook post, the DepEd said it supports programs for women. “Ngayong National Women’s Month, kaisa ang Kagawaran ng Edukasyon sa pagsisiguro na ang karapatan ng kababaihan ay mapahahalagahan sa pamamagitan ng paglalaan ng mga proyekto at programa sa layuning ito(This National Women’s Month, the Education department supports [...]
Falun Gong Founder Mr. Li Hongzhi Publishes ‘How Humankind Came To Be’
How Humankind Came To Be I would like to first pass along my greetings to everyone on the advent of the Chinese New Year. New Year’s would normally be a time for sharing a few pleasant remarks about the occasion. But I am seeing imminent danger approaching humanity, and have been called upon by divine beings to pass along, for this reason, several things to everyone in this world. Each of what I am about to disclose is a higher, closely guarded secret, and these are being shared to provide a true picture of affairs, and to give people another chance at salvation. First is the question of how humankind came about. From the dawn of its creation to its final days, the universe has gone through an exceptionally [...]
PH formulating guides on joint patrols in WPS
The government is drawing up guidelines for joint patrols with allies in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) in the face of increasingly aggressive behavior by China in the disputed waters of the South China Sea. Operational details, including the possible engagement of other regional partners, will be part of talks between the Philippines and the United States, which have a mutual defense treaty, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Thursday. Last month, defense officials said they were considering joint patrols with the United States, Japan and Australia, but the DFA did not provide any details this week on which countries would take part in them. The DFA said the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) mechanism with the US draws up activities that will be undertaken by the [...]
Transport strike to push through
RARE RIDE Commuters wait for a ride in Pasay City on Thursday, March 2, 2023, as the country braces for a nationwide transport strike that will start on March 6. PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA Mar Valbuena, leader of the Manibela transport group, said on Thursday that drivers and operators of traditional jeepneys and UV Express will push through with their strike to protest the government's PUV Modernization Program. The transport strike, with participants in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Bicol Region, and Cagayan de Oro, will start on March 6 at 7 a.m. and will last until March 12. "Tuloy ang tigil pasada (The transport strike will push through)," Valbuena told The Manila Times. He said they will only call off the strike if the Land Transportation [...]
DOTr, LTFRB urged: Fix the system, other loopholes in jeepney modernization first
The Senate Committee on Public Services on Thursday, March 2 urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation and Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to first address the issues hounding the implementation of the government’s jeepney modernization program. Sen. Grace Poe calls for measures to address the concerns of public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers as the government goes full steam ahead with its modernization program during the Senate Committee on Public Services’ hearing on Thursday, March 2, 2023. (Senate PRIB Photo) During the public hearing, Sen. Grace Poe said it is clear that despite the government’s insistence to pursue the Public Utility Vehicles (PUV) Modernization Program, many of the stakeholders in the jeepney industry, particularly drivers and operators, are not prepared to comply. Earlier, [...]
Oil slick spreads to most of marine protected areas in 10 Oriental Mindoro towns
Metro Manila, Philippines— The oil spill off Oriental Mindoro has affected 80% of the 34 marine protected areas in 10 municipalities, the local government reported Friday. “Mayroon tayong total na 26 marine protected areas down to Bulalacao from Naujan na affected ng oil spill,” a provincial agriculture official said in a press conference. [Translation: We have a total of 26 marine protected areas down to Bulalacao from Naujan that were affected by the oil spill.] The 10 city and towns are: Calapan City, Naujan, Pola, Pinamalayan, Gloria, Bansud, Bongabong, Roxas, Mansalay, and Bulalacao. The spill has also affected the livelihood of over 10,000 fisherfolk in Pinamalayan, Gloria, Bansud, Bongabong, Roxas, and Mansalay, she added. As of Thursday, the slick was seen 10 kilometers from the shoreline of Mansalay. According to the [...]
Marcos to AFP: Focus on South China Sea
This photo taken on February 6, 2023 shows anchored Philippine fishing boats (front) before a group of Chinese vessels in the Scarborough Shoal, in the disputed South China Sea. STR / AFP President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the main mission of the military has changed to ensure the protection of the country's territory as disputes with China and US-China rivalry intensify. He stressed the urgency of shifting the military's focus to external defense in a speech before troops Monday afternoon. He spoke two weeks after summoning China's ambassador to protest the use of a military-grade laser by the Chinese coast guard that briefly blinded some of the crew of a Philippine patrol vessel in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippines condemned the February 6 incident in one of [...]
Senators call to maximize Anti-Hazing Act implementation
MANILA – Lawmakers from the Upper Chamber expressed on Wednesday their concern over the death of John Matthew Salilig, an Adamson University student who was recently found dead in Imus town, Cavite province. According to the initial investigation of the police, Salilig was attending the initiation rites of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity in Laguna province on Feb. 18 and was later reported missing that day. Senator Ronald Dela Rosa urged the fraternity and the school administration to initiate additional measures in protecting students against hazing. "I am not for banning fraternities but they should police their ranks. The school administration is very crucial kasi(because) the police cannot be around every square-inch of the directorate. So in the ranks ng (of) fraternity and sorority organizations, they have to police themselves. [...]
PNP to integrate water patrol unit with Navy, PCG
To strengthen the government’s maritime law enforcement capability, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is planning to integrate its maritime units with the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard, with a focus on the country’s boundaries with Malaysia and Indonesia. The country’s southern borders are considered porous and are usually the routes of smuggling and human trafficking activities. PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said their maritime units’ patrols will focus near the country’s shorelines and help in the ongoing campaign against smuggling, human trafficking, and other transnational crimes. “We wanted to have a memorandum of understanding with (the PCG and Philippine Navy) to secure our waters against contrabands and including the campaign against human trafficking,” he told reporters after the presentation and blessing of newly procured police equipment [...]
Philippines eyes resumption of free trade deal talks with EU
Sto. Tomas, Batangas — The Philippines is eyeing to return to the negotiating table for the possible free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU), Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said Wednesday. Last week, members of the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights (EP DROI) went on a three-day visit to the Philippines, during which they made a courtesy call on Pascual where he followed up on the renewal of the country’s Generalized System of Preference Plus (GSP+) trade agreement with the EU. The EU GSP+ agreement grants the Philippines zero duties on 6,274 locally-made products, as long as the country meets the requirements regarding human and labor rights, the environment, and good governance. Pascual, however, said that as the Philippine government is working towards making the country an [...]
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim arrives in PH for official visit
Metro Manila, Philippines— Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim arrived in the Philippines on Wednesday for a two-day official visit. Anwar’s plane landed at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City past noon. He is the first head of government to visit the Philippines since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office last year. The two leaders are set to meet in the afternoon for a bilateral meeting. They are expected to tackle various areas of partnership, including political, security, and economic cooperation.
Marcos taps Kadiwa programs to make food more affordable
No more hungry Filipinos. That’s what President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. wants to achieve by the end of his administration as he expanded his program making food prices affordable to poor families. Marcos reiterated his earlier pronouncement during the expansion of Kadiwa ng Pangulo program in Manila and Batangas province on Wednesday, March 1. President Marcos Jr. leads the opening of the Kadiwa ng Pangulo at Rizal Park in Manila on Wednesday, March 1, 2023. (Noel Pabalate/MANILA BULLETIN) “Kailangan talaga namin gawin ‘yan, dahil hindi natin pababayaan ang ating mga kababayan. At sinabi ko na, ilang beses ang aking pangarap sa aking administrasyon ay sana ay wala ng gutom na Pilipino (We really have to do that. We will not neglect our countrymen. I have said many times [...]
Biden says he does not ‘anticipate’ China providing weapons to Russia
US President Joe Biden said Friday that he does not “anticipate a major initiative” from China to provide weapons to Russia in its war against Ukraine. His comments come days after Secretary of State Antony Blinken told CBS that China was “considering providing lethal support” to Moscow ranging “from ammunition to the weapons themselves” — which Beijing denied. In a wide-ranging television interview with ABC News — covering his bid for re-election and the war in Ukraine — that aired Friday evening, Biden appeared to backtrack on Blinken’s comments. “I don’t anticipate — we haven’t seen it yet — but I don’t anticipate a major initiative on the part of China providing weaponry to Russia,” he said. Biden explained that in a conversation he had with Chinese President Xi [...]
Palace: PBBM admin to upskill PH workers as foreign investors come to PH
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is preparing for the entry of more foreign investors in the country, particularly by ensuring that the Philippines has a pool of well-educated and highly-skilled workforce, Malacañang said. (JANSEN ROMERO / MANILA BULELTIN) In a statement, Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said that the DOLE is paying attention to resolving job mismatch issues by upskilling Filipino workers. Citing Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, Garafil added that the upskilling of workers must be industry-led and demand- and market-driven so they can find employment that suits their skills. In a press briefing, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said the government needed to boost its efforts to digitalize available jobs so workers would have the chance to choose where they want to work and the type of [...]
Go reiterates need to support farmers
Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go. (Joseph Vidal/Senate PRIB) SEN. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go emphasized the importance of improving the competitiveness and safeguarding of local farmers and industries following the ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Go said that the government should provide more interventions and support to local farmers to make them more competitive, especially rice farmers. "First of all, it is important that our farmers are protected, especially in Nueva Ecija which is known as the rice granary of the Philippines," he said. "Let's make our farmers more competitive. Meaning, the government must come in for more intervention, more support for them." Explaining his affirmative vote on the ratification of the agreement, Go said he believes that with open competition as a result of RCEP, [...]
Cancer third leading cause of death in PH: health expert
MANILA -- Cancer is now the third leading cause of death nationwide, with lung cancer ranking number one in mortality, a health expert said Friday. File photo courtesy of World Health Organization During a media forum at the sidelines of the National Cancer Summit, Philippine Society of Medical Oncology president Dr. Rosario Pitargue noted there are 184 cases diagnosed in 100,000 patients and that 96 deaths related to cancer are reported daily. During a media forum at the sidelines of the National Cancer Summit, Philippine Society of Medical Oncology president Dr. Rosario Pitargue noted there are 184 cases diagnosed in 100,000 patients and that 96 deaths related to cancer are reported daily. “In terms of death, lung [cancer], it would [...]
17 provinces in PH among at risk of environmental damage due to climate change – report
Philippines — At least 17 provinces in the country are among the top 100 areas in the world that are most vulnerable to climate change driven disasters, according to a report. These are Aurora, Cagayan, Eastern Samar, Ilocos Sur, Leyte, Northern Samar, Nueva Ecija, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Samar, Southern Leyte, Surigao del Sur, Sulu, Tarlac, and Zambales. The study conducted by Cross Dependency Initiative (XDI) measures the impact of eight climate change hazards on the built environment of different states, provinces, and territories around the world. These hazards include riverine and surface flooding, coastal inundation, extreme heat, forest fire, soil subsidence (in drought), extreme wind (synoptic and tropical cyclones), and freeze thaw. A total of 2,600 areas around the world were analyzed in the report. A [...]
PCG says best way to counter Chinese ‘bullying’ in WPS is to publicize aggressive acts
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) believes that making the Filipino people and the international community aware of China’s “bullying behavior” in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is an effective way to counter their aggression. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) conducts a maritime domain awareness (MDA) flight over Ayungin Shoal and Aabina Shoals in the West Philippine Sea on Feb. 21, 2023. (Photo: National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea) Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG adviser of the Commandant for maritime security and PCG spokesman for West Philippine Sea, said publicizing China’s numerous aggressive actions in the WPS was the “difference-maker” under the current administration. “The difference ng mga nakaraang taong circumstances na nangyayari sa West Philippine Sea at sa mga nakaraang linggo (The difference of the previous years’ [...]
PH, Australia in sea patrol talks
PBBM: Aussie official’s visit ‘important part of response’ to Chinese acts The Philippines and Australia confirmed Wednesday they are discussing possible joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea (WPS)—an arrangement that Manila is also exploring with the United States and Japan. SHARED SECURITY CONCERN. Australia Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles (left) and Philippine Secretary of Defense Carlito Galvez Jr attend a joint press conference at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on February 22, 2023 where they announced both countries are exploring the possibility of joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea. AFP President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the visit of Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles “‘will be an important part of the response’ to the recent acts by the Chinese Coast Guard in the [...]
PBBM eyes digitalization of farmer registry, food balance sheet
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday sought to fast-track the digitalization of database of farmers and food balance sheet (FBS) to strengthen the country’s agricultural industry. DIGITALIZATING AGRICULTURE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. meets with members of the Private Sector Advisory Council’s Agriculture Sector Group at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Thursday (Feb. 23, 2023). Marcos wants the speedy digitalization of farmers’ registry and food balance sheet to develop the country’s agricultural industry. (Screenshot from Radio Television Malacañang) This developed after Marcos met with the Private Sector Advisory Council’s (PSAC) Agriculture Sector Group at Malacañan Palace in Manila, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil said in a statement. Garafil said Marcos welcomed the PSAC’s proposal to digitize the farmer registry and the FBS, as he [...]
PNP allows 18 European Parliament members to visit De Lima
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has accommodated 18 members of the European Parliament in their visit to former Sen. Leila de Lima at her detention facility at Camp Crame in Quezon City on Thursday, Feb. 23. PNP chief information officer Col. Redrico Maranan said the members of the European Parliament were properly escorted to de Lima’s detention facility in accordance with the existing rules of the Custodial Center where de Lima is currently detained. This includes, he said, the observance of minimum public health standards. “The PNP followed the court orders in connection with the visit to the former senator. Our personnel escorted them inside as part of the protocol being observed at the Custodial Center,” Maranan told the Manila Bulletin. The court orders were signed by two judges [...]
Palace moves EDSA holiday to Feb. 24 but wants its historical significance maintained
Pursuant to the principle of holiday economics, Malacañang has declared Feb. 24, 2023, a special nonworking holiday in celebration of the EDSA People Power Revolution anniversary, which falls on a Saturday this year. Proclamation No. 167 declares Feb. 24, 2023, a special nonworking holiday in celebration of the 37th EDSA People Power Revolution anniversary (File photos) The Palace released Proclamation No. 167 on Thursday evening, a day before the new holiday date. The Proclamation was signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and confirmed by Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil in a text message. Based on Proclamation No. 167, Malacañang moved the celebration of the EDSA holiday to “enable our countrymen to avail of the benefits of a longer weekend pursuant to the principle of holiday economics.” However, the Palace [...]
PH to start exporting durian to China in March
MANILA – The Philippines is poised to ship an initial 7,500 metric tons of durian to China in March, Malacañang announced on Thursday. (File Photo) The scheduled shipment of durian to China was reported to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. by the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) in a meeting at Malacañan Palace, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil said in a statement. “In its (DA-PBM) presentation, the agency said there is an initial volume of 7,500 metric tons of durians ready to be sent to the Asian country, which will be sourced from 59 different farmers or producers covering some 400 hectares of production area,” Garafil said. To recall, Marcos’ [...]
Four-day work week more productive – study
LONDON— A four-day working week is more productive for most staff and companies than the traditional five days, one of the biggest trials of its kind conducted in the UK reported on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila). Over 60 firms in Britain took part in the six-month experiment allowing almost 3,000 employees to work one day less per week while retaining the same salary. Conducted between last June and December, it was organized by nonprofit group 4 Day Week Global alongside the think tank Autonomy, the University of Cambridge and Boston College in the United States. It has been described as the world's biggest trial of a four-day working week. The study found more than nine out of 10 firms will continue with the shortened working week or plan to do [...]
BBM won’t invoke PH-US defense treaty vs China
TROOPING THE LINE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. troops the line in Borromeo Field during the 2023 Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Alumni Homecoming at the PMA Grandstand in Fort del Pilar, Baguio City on Saturday (Feb. 18, 2023). The Philippine Military Academy serves as the country’s premiere military institution and training ground for aspiring future officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (PNA photo by Alfred Frias) (UPDATE) BAGUIO CITY— Despite the laser-pointing incident at the Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday said he is not keen on invoking the country's Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States as it would only escalate tensions with China. Speaking to reporters, Marcos said that activating the MDT which, he said, was under [...]
‘PH won’t lose an inch of its territory,’ says Marcos
Metro Manila, Philippines— Amid heightened geopolitical tensions, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines will not relinquish any of its territory and will uphold its sovereignty. "This country will not lose one inch of its territory. We will continue to uphold our territorial integrity and sovereignty in accordance with our Constitution and with international law," Marcos said in a speech before Philippine Military Academy alumni on Saturday. "We will work with our neighbors to secure the safety and security of our people," he added. China has continually defied the 2016 Hague Ruling which nullified Beijing's claim over the West Philippine Sea, and has taken numerous actions against Filipino fisherfolk and coast guard within Philippine maritime territory. "The country has seen heightened geopolitical tensions that do not conform to our ideals [...]
PH has ‘good’ justice system, won’t cooperate with ICC: PBBM
MANILA – The Philippines will not cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) as it has a "good" justice system, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Saturday. 'GOOD' JUSTICE SYSTEM. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. says in an interview in Baguio City on Saturday (Feb. 18, 2023) that the Philippines has a "good" justice system. Marcos said the country would not cooperate with the International Criminal Court in investigating the past administration’s anti-narcotics campaign. (PNA photo by Christopher Lloyd Caliwan) Marcos issued the statement in response to the ICC's decision to resume its investigation into the deaths associated with the anti-narcotics campaign waged by his predecessor, former president Rodrigo Duterte. Speaking to reporters in Fort del Pilar, Baguio City, Marcos said the ICC has no jurisdiction over [...]
LTFRB set to issue order on distribution of 100K TNVS slots
MANILA – The Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will be coming up with an order regarding the distribution of 100,000 slots for transport network vehicle service (TNVS) applications nationwide. (File Photo) “The board will issue a memorandum circular detailing the distribution,” said Engr. Riza Paches of the LTFRB at the Saturday News Forum at Dapo Restaurant in Quezon City but did not specify a date. “But right now, the board through its divisions under the LTFRB are considering how this is going to be rolled out operationally,” she added. The LTFRB board member noted that providing additional slots will not only generate employment but also address the problem of public transportation. “The bottom line as expressed by the [...]
DSWD, UN explore opportunities to strengthen future partnerships in ending hunger, responding to disasters
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian discusses his plans for the DSWD, particularly its efforts to end hunger and improve disaster response operations, with United Nations Resident Coordinator to the Philippines Gustavo González during a meeting held on Friday, February 10, 2023 at the DSWD Central Office in Quezon City. (DSWD PHOTO) Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian discussed with United Nations (UN) representatives to the Philippines potential opportunities to further strengthen their partnership for the government’s social protection programs in a meeting held at the DSWD Central Office on Feb. 10. Gatchalian discussed with the UN representatives, led by UN Resident Coordinator to the Philippines Gustavo Gonzalez, his plans for the DSWD to explore partnerships and further improve the agency’s [...]
Cyclone Gabrielle: New Zealand declares state of emergency
GETTY IMAGES New Zealand has declared a state of emergency due to Cyclone Gabrielle, the third such alert in its history. The Minister for Emergency Management, Kieran McAnulty, signed the national declaration into place Tuesday morning. It will apply to the Northland, Auckland, Tairawhiti, Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Hawkes Bay regions and streamline the government's response to the disaster. At least 38,000 homes were without power on Tuesday morning. In New Zealand's largest city, Auckland, authorities earlier evacuated people from 50 homes around a 30m-high tower that was in danger of collapse, local media reported. Dozens of evacuation centres have also been set up in the city. Mr McAnulty described the storm as "an unprecedented weather event". He said the state of emergency will allow for federal co-ordination [...]
China Coast Guard ship points ‘blinding’ laser at PCG vessel
A China Coast Guard ship (CCG) directed a military-grade laser light at a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, West Philippine Sea recently, causing temporary blindness to a Filipino coast guardian. Photo: Philippine Coat Guard / PCG PCG spokesperson Commodore Armando Balilo said CCG vessel with bow number 5205 pointed the laser light towards BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403) in Ayungin Shoal past 6 p.m. on Feb. 6 while it was supporting a rotation and resupply (RoRe) mission of the Philippine Navy (PN). “As BRP Malapascua reached a 10 nautical mile distance from Ayungin Shoal, the CCG vessel was monitored approximately four nautical miles of the ship’s dead ahead maneuvering from the portside heading starboard side,” Balilo said in a statement Monday, Feb. 13. “The Chinese ship [...]
PH eyes tripartite pact with US, Japan
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Screengrab from RTVM Facebook Live TOKYO— The Philippines is considering a tripartite agreement with its two close allies, the United States and Japan, amid the "dangerous situations" the country faces, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said. Interviewed by Japan's Kyodo News Friday, the President said one of the "many other issues" raised by the Philippine delegation during his visit to Tokyo was creating alliances with its long-time partners. "It is something that we certainly are going to be studying upon my return to the Philippines. I think just part of the continuing process of strengthening our alliances because in this rather confusing," he said. Marcos mentioned "dangerous situations" threatening the country. "I'm not talking only about the South China Sea, I'm not only talking [...]
US holds drills in South China Sea amid tensions with China
An E/A-18G Growler aircraft launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz in the South China Sea, Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023, as Nimitz in U.S. 7th Fleet was conducting operations. The 7th Fleet based in Japan said Sunday that the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier strike group and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit have been conducting “integrated expeditionary strike force operations” in the South China Sea. (Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joseph Calabrese/U.S. Navy via AP) BEIJING— The United States Navy and Marine Corps are holding joint exercises in the South China Sea at a time of heightened tensions with Beijing over the shooting down of a suspected Chinese spy balloon. The 7th Fleet based in Japan said Sunday that the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier strike group [...]
CCC to boost partnerships for more climate-resilient agriculture
CLIMATE-RESILIENT AGRI. Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director (VCED) Robert Borje and CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera on Monday (Feb. 13, 2023) met with the farming community in Barangay Rayuray in Batac town, Ilocos Norte province to discuss their observations on environment and climate-related concerns in the area. During their meeting, Borje vowed to continue boosting cooperation with various sectors to help the country achieve climate-resilient agriculture practices. (Photo courtesy of CCC) MANILA – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) on Monday vowed to continue boosting cooperation with various sectors to help the country achieve climate-resilient agriculture practices. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director (VCED) Robert Borje made this remark following his meeting with the farming community in Barangay Rayuray in Batac town, Ilocos Norte [...]
Chinese balloon capable of gathering intelligence – US official
A suspected Chinese surveillance balloon that the US shot down this week was able to collect communications signals, a US official has said. It was equipped with multiple antennas capable of "intelligence collection operations", a senior State Department official said in a background briefing. On Thursday, US lawmakers passed a non-binding resolution condemning China for the balloon. China has denied the balloon was used for spying purposes. It has said the balloon was a weather device blown astray. The US, however, believes the balloon is part of a wider fleet of surveillance balloons that has spanned five continents. House of Representatives lawmakers called the balloon a "brazen violation of United States sovereignty" as the body voted 419 to 0 on Thursday morning to condemn its use. Its appearance in [...]
Hope fades for survivors as Turkey-Syria earthquake toll passes 20,000
A view shows the aftermath of the deadly earthquake in Hatay, Turkey, February 9, 2023. REUTERS/Emilie Madi Death toll is over 17,000 in Turkey, more than 3,000 in Syria Hundreds of thousands left homeless in middle of winter First U.N. aid convoy enters northwest Syria from Turkey Two-year-old pulled from rubble in Turkey 79 hours after quake ANTAKYA, Turkey/JANDARIS, Syria, Feb 9, (Reuters) - Cold, hunger and despair gripped hundreds of thousands of people left homeless after the earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria three days ago as the death toll passed 20,000 on Thursday. The rescue of a 2-year-old boy after 79 hours trapped in the rubble of a collapsed building in Hatay, Turkey, and several other people raised spirits among weary search crews. But hopes were [...]
China dominates Australian, New Zealand leaders’ talks
CHINA CONCERNS New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins (left) and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hold a joint news conference at Parliament House in Australia’s capital Canberra on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023. AP PHOTO CANBERRA— The prime ministers of Australia and New Zealand met on Tuesday to talk about China's importance to their national economies, resolving to voice their disagreements with their most important trading partner that is becoming more assertive in their region. New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins made Australia the destination of his first overseas trip as his government's leader since his predecessor Jacinda Ardern announced her surprise resignation in January. The visit to Australia's Parliament House comes two weeks after Hipkins assumed office on January 25. He used a joint news conference with his Australian [...]
Two Filipinos hurt in Turkey quake — PH Embassy
Metro Manila, Philippines — Two Filipinos sustained injuries due to the magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Turkey, the Philippine Embassy in Ankara confirmed Tuesday. The embassy said the two Filipinos are now doing fine. In a separate statement, it said embassy personnel are continuously contacting "as many of the 248 Filipinos as possible" in the affected areas, including Gaziantep, Hatay, Adana, Mersin, and Sanliurfa. A magnitude 7.8 earthquake rocked Turkey and Syria on Monday, killing over 5,000 people and injuring tens of thousands more. On Wednesday, the Philippines is set to deploy to Turkey around 85 rescuers along with relief goods and necessities for quake survivors. The embassy has yet to determine the exact casualty figures among the Filipino communities affected by the quake. "The embassy has been receiving confirmed [...]
LTFRB memo on extension of old jeepney franchises out soon
MANILA – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is still drafting the memorandum circular outlining the details of its recent approval of the extension of franchises of traditional public utility jeepneys nationwide. Commuters queue up for bus and jeepney rides along Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City on Monday (Jan. 23, 2023). (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon) During a press briefing at the LTFRB office in East Avenue, Quezon City on Tuesday, LTFRB technical division chief Joel Bolano said the exact parameters of the extension are being studied. “We will just wait for the final date up to when the extension of their authority to operate will be. This will be part of the new memorandum circular that we will issue very soon,” Bolano said. The franchises [...]
Land titling project benefits over 16K farmers: DAR
MANILA – A total of 16,888 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) nationwide have received their individual electronic land titles and have benefited from the Department of Agrarian Reform’s (DAR) Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling or Project SPLIT. (File photo) In a press release on Tuesday, DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III assures that despite the tedious and rigorous process of subdividing collective certificates of land ownership awards (CCLOAs), the DAR is slowly but steadily making some progress in Project SPLIT. DAR Assistant Secretary for Field Operations Joey Sumatra, concurrent SPLIT national director, said a total of 18,802 e-titles covering 23,898 hectares of agricultural lands nationwide have been distributed. He said that DAR has already validated around 522,688 hectares [...]
Marcos wants to ‘rationalize’ AFP promotion system
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said he wants to “rationalize” the promotion system in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). PROMOTION SYSTEM. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. poses for a photo opportunity with newly sworn in Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) generals and flag officers at Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (Feb. 7, 2023). Marcos said he wants to “rationalize” the AFP promotion system. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the President) He made this remark after administering the oath of office to 77 newly appointed and promoted AFP generals and flag officers at Malacañan Palace on Monday. This is the first time that happened since the Covid-19 pandemic hit the country in 2020. “‘Yung promotion, SOP [standard operating procedure] na ‘yan(Promotion [...]
UN Special Rapporteur Dr. Tidball-Binz visits PH for 3 days as forensic expert
Dr. MorrisTidball-Binz United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial Killings Dr. Morris Tidball-Binz will be in the Philippines starting Monday, Feb. 6, for a three-day visit. But Dr. Tidball-Binz’s visit will be not be in his official capacity as UN Special Rapporteur but as an expert in forensic pathology “to help capacitate our current doctors,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla said. Remulla said that Tidball-Binz will “pave the way for forensic pathologists and enhance their practice to achieve international standard practices” as well as help the Philippines “identify the intricacies of wrongful death tragedies.” “We need more capable doctors in our country to assist our law enforcement agencies in their work. This is an enormous step towards that goal,” he said. “I invited Dr. Tidball-Binz because his [...]
House bill seeks longer paternity leave
PHILIPPINES— A bill filed at the House of Representatives seeks to increase the number of days that the law grants for paternity leave. House Bill (HB) 4430, filed on September 5 last year by Quezon City Fourth District Rep. Marvin Rillo, will increase the period of paternity leave with pay from seven days to 30 days. It also expands the coverage of the Paternity Leave Act (Republic Act 8187) to include "unmarried fathers who cohabit with the mother without legal impediment to marry." RA 11210, or the "Expanded Maternity Leave Law," allows female workers to allocate up to seven days of their maternity leave benefits to the child's father, whether or not he is married to her. Under HB 4430, a child's father who is legally married to and [...]
Lakas-CMD elects new officers
Sara Duterte, Vice President of the Republic of The Philippines. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO The political party Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) elected its new set of national officers on Friday. The holding of the election was contained in a resolution approved by party members and confirmed by incumbent officers led by House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Vice President Sara Duterte. Romualdez and Duterte reassumed the positions of president and chairman, respectively. The installation of the new officers "will strengthen and reinvigorate our party in support of the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his Agenda for Prosperity and socioeconomic roadmap," Romualdez said in a statement Sunday. "We hope to further grow our membership with new recruits who share our ideals, programs and goals, and aspirations for our people and our [...]
China expresses strong dissatisfaction after the US shot down suspected spy balloon
China accused the United States of "seriously violating international practice" after it shot down a suspected Chinese spy balloon on Feb 5, 2023. (Photo: Brian Branch via AP) SHANGHAI— Beijing on Sunday (Feb 5) blasted the Pentagon's decision to shoot down an alleged Chinese spy balloon spotted flying over North America, accusing the United States of "clearly overreacting and seriously violating international practice". "China expresses strong dissatisfaction and protests against the use of force by the United States to attack the unmanned civilian airship," Beijing's foreign ministry said in a statement, adding that it would "reserve the right to make further necessary responses". The craft spent several days flying over North America, ratcheting up tensions between Washington and Beijing, before it was brought down by a missile shot from [...]
NEDA: 206 PBBM flagship projects up for vetting
GOV'T PROGRAMS. National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon speaks at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City Feb. 4, 2023. She discussed the programs that the government could undertake until 2028 through various schemes such as public-private partnership, grants, and government allocation. (PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler) MANILA – The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) is vetting a total of 206 major projects and is expected to come up with a final list by the end of the first quarter, a ranking official said Saturday. NEDA Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon said this initial 206 are only the administration’s “flagship projects” included in a much longer list of about 3,000 more programs that span up until 2028. In the Saturday News Forum at the [...]
Japan says it has addressed Filipino comfort women’s concerns
Japan said concerns being raised by the Filipino “comfort women” have been addressed by its government, including recognition of the Imperial Japanese Army’s atrocities and reparation claims. In a statement, the Japanese Embassy in Manila made remarks on the various calls made by the surviving Filipino comfort women—or those who were sent to sexual slavery by the Japanese military during World War II—before Tokyo was due to present its human rights report for the Fourth Cycle of the United Nations’ Universal Periodic Review of Human Rights. According to the embassy, the Japanese government already expressed in 1993 “sincere apologies and remorse, recognizing this issue was severely injured the honor and dignity of a large number of women.” “The Government has since expressed its sincere apologies and remorse to the [...]
Framework for waste-to-energy technologies pushed
MANILA – Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has filed a bill seeking to establish a national energy policy and regulatory framework for facilities using waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies that would address solid waste management problems, and provide an alternative source of energy. In his Senate Bill (SB) 1746, or the “Waste to Energy Act,” Zubiri noted that as the country develops, the population increases rapidly along with more improvements in our way of life, increasing the volume of waste created. Citing the assessment of the Environment and Management Bureau, the country is projected to generate 92 million tons of waste from 2022 to 2025. “Unfortunately, our solid waste disposal system is yet to keep up with the continuously increasing amount of household and domestic wastes that we produce. This bill [...]
NEDA approves 6 more ‘high-impact’ projects
HIGH-IMPACT PROJECTS. National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) director general and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan (right) announces more NEDA-approved projects during the Palace press briefing on Friday (Feb. 3, 2023). The NEDA board has approved seven "high-impact" projects to attain the Marcos administration’s social and economic transformation goal. (PNA photo by Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos) MANILA – Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan on Friday said the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board has approved six other key projects, including the proposal to raise the fund for the rehabilitation of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3). This, after the NEDA Board, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., gave its greenlight to the seven projects. On Thursday, Malacañang already announced that the first public-private partnership (PPP) project [...]
PH gives US more access to bases
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomes US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin 3rd at Malacañang on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023. PPA Pool The United States and the Philippines announced a deal Thursday to give US troops access to four more local military bases. The agreement to expand cooperation in "strategic areas of the country" was made during a visit by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin 3rd. It comes as the countries seek to repair ties that were fractured in recent years — previous president Rodrigo Duterte favored China over the US, but the new administration of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been keen to reverse that. Beijing's growing assertiveness on Taiwan and its building of bases in the disputed South China Sea have also given fresh impetus to Washington and Manila to [...]
PBBM gives DepEd a year to revise K to 12 curriculum
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gave the Department of Education a year to complete its review of the K to 12 curriculum, DepEd spokesman Michael Poa said in a television interview. “The President gave us a timeline of around a year to finish the review,” Poa told CNN Philippines’ The Source. He said the review for the curriculum for kinder to Grade 10 has been concluded while the review for the senior high school grades has just started. “We are trying to decongest our curriculum to focus on the essential subjects and the basics, like math, reading, science,” he said. “We want to really look at literacy in a way that we’ll be able to inculcate not just foundational literacy but also functional literacy,” Poa added. Vice President and Education [...]
Austin in PH to discuss bigger US presence
Mindanao landing US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin 3rd visits the Western Mindanao Command at Camp Don Basilio Navarro in Zamboanga City on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023. Photo courtesy of WestMinCom US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was in the Philippines Wednesday for talks about deploying US forces and weapons in more Philippine military camps to ramp up deterrence against China's increasingly aggressive actions toward Taiwan and in the disputed South China Sea. Austin flew Tuesday night to Manila from South Korea, where he met his counterpart. Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) commander Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino, and Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. welcomed Austin in Mindanao. The officials discussed the continued support [...]
Garlic price also shoots up
PHILIPPINES— While consumers are still grappling with the high prices of onions, the retail price of local garlic has increased to P400 per kilo even if there was no shortage of the pungent bulbs. "We don't have a shortage of garlic. We have a small supply of local garlic, a small supply as the preference of our consumers is the big [imported] garlic," Department of Agriculture (DA) deputy spokesman Rex Extoperez told The Manila Times. He said that the country is only producing four percent of its garlic requirement. "I visited Occidental Mindoro and I found out that many garlic farmers shifted to onions as consumers prefer imported garlic," he added. Estoperez said the Philippine weather is not conducive to planting garlic. "Some farmers in Occidental Mindoro tried to [...]
7 pacts to be inked during Marcos trip to Japan next week
MANILA, Philippines — At least seven agreements covering various areas of cooperation will be signed between the Philippines and Japan during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s official working visit to Tokyo next week, a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) official said on Wednesday. In a press briefing in Malacañang, DFA Assistant Secretary for Asian and Pacific Affairs Neal Imperial said the trip, scheduled from Feb. 8 to Feb. 12, will include a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and an audience with Emperor Naruhito. “The DFA considers the President’s visit to Japan as consequential. Japan is the first country with which the Philippines has forged a strategic partnership and is only one of two strategic partners of the Philippines, the other one being Vietnam,” he added. Japan, according [...]
Taiwan activates defenses vs China army operations
DEFENSE DRILL Taiwanese Mirage 2000 fighter jets taxi along a runway during a drill at an air base in the city of Hsinchu, northwestern Taiwan on Jan. 11, 2023. AP FILE PHOTO TAIPEI— Taiwan scrambled fighter jets, put its navy on alert, and activated missile systems in response to nearby operations of 34 Chinese military aircraft and nine warships that are part of Beijing's strategy to unsettle and intimidate the self-governing island. The large-scale Chinese deployment comes as Beijing increases preparations for a potential blockade or outright attack on Taiwan that has stirred major concerns among military leaders in the United States, the East Asian island democracy's key ally. In a memo last month, US Air Force Gen. Mike Minihan instructed officers to be prepared for a US-China [...]
‘P5M for removal from BI blacklist’
An anti-crime watchdog on Tuesday bared reports of a new modus involving online offers for the removal from the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) blacklist in exchange for as much as P5 million. “We received reports of advertisements offering to lift immigration blacklist for a fee of P1 million to P5 million were circulating in Chinese social media platforms,” Movement for Restoration of Peace and Order (MRPO) Chairperson Ka Kuen Chua said during a hearing of the Senate Public Order and Dangerous Drugs Committee yesterday. “These kinds of anomalies in the Bureau of Immigration must be investigated and those responsible must be removed from service,” Chua said. Chua said based on the information they have gathered, illegal safehouses and slave labor dens were “under the protection of authorities.” “There are [...]
Inflation in Jan. seen to heat up further to 8.3%
Inflation in January 2023 likely accelerated to as high as 8.3 percent from the 14-year high of 8.1 percent in December on the back of higher prices of electricity, fuel and food items, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said Tuesday. In a statement, BSP projected the January 2023 inflation to settle within the range of 7.5 to 8.3 percent. “Upward price pressures for the month are expected to emanate from higher electricity rates, approved water rate rebasing, higher domestic petroleum prices, uptick in the prices of key food items, and the annual increase in sin taxes,” it said. The BSP, however, said Filipinos might have found relief last month from lower LPG prices and the strengthening of the Philippine peso. The BSP said it is prepared to “adjust its [...]
CHED seen obstructing PH education progress
The Manila Times Chairman Emeritus Dr. Dante A. Ang Photo by Mike Alquinto The Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) is the stumbling block to quality education in the country, The Manila Times Chairman Emeritus Dante A. Ang said on Tuesday. In an economic forum conducted by this paper in partnership with Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Ang spelled out some underlying issues that the education and other sectors need to address. He said that CHEd has been lacking in terms of supervising and providing quality education in all state colleges and universities. "Quality education is expensive. If we want quality education, we must invest in faculty training, quality facilities and equipment," Ang pointed out. Moreover, he reiterated that CHEd is of the mistaken notion that "it [...]
Rex Gatchalian gets DSWD post
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administers the oath of office to Valenzuela 1st District Rep. Rex Gatchalian at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday. Screengrab from the Presidential Communications Office President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has named Valenzuela City First District Rep. Rexlon "Rex" Gatchalian as the new secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Gatchalian took his oath of office before Marcos in Malacañang on Tuesday, January 31, the Presidential Communications Operations Office said. He was accompanied by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Interior Secretary Benjamin "Benhur" Abalos Jr., and Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. during the oath-taking ceremony. Gatchalian replaced Erwin Tulfo, who left his post last December after his appointment was bypassed twice by the Commission on Appointments over his libel [...]
Marcos to meet US defense chief this week – envoy
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will meet with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when he visits Manila this week, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez confirmed on Tuesday. "It is really more of getting to know each other. It is an ongoing relationship that we have with the United States. As President Marcos pointed out — it is evolving," the ambassador said in a press briefing. Romualdez added that Austin has also requested a meeting with his Filipino counterpart, Carlito Galvez Jr. He said Austin's visit aims to reinforce key agreements between Manila and Washington — including the Mutual Defense Treaty, the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement or EDCA, and the Visiting Forces Agreement. 'Unwavering commitment' Austin's trip comes amid ongoing tensions between the Philippines and China in [...]
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins: ‘Still a very challenging time’ for Auckland
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins. File photo Photo: RNZ / Nick Monro Prime Minister Chris Hipkins says Auckland is still facing much uncertainty, with more heavy rain forecast for the city. Further downpours overnight led to five more rescues of people trapped by floodwaters and landslips, and a significant landslip in Titirangi. Chris Hipkins said Auckland has a big clean-up ahead from the torrential rain that began on Friday causing unprecedented flooding around the city. "And then of course we've got the uncertainty of what the weather's going to do over the next few days still ahead of us ... so it's still a very challenging time for Auckland." There has been criticism of Auckland mayor Wayne Brown's initial response as the emergency unfolded, but Hipkins would not be drawn [...]
Germany’s Scholz denounces ‘bidding war’ over jets for Ukraine
Chancellor’s comments follow repeated requests by Ukrainian politicians for fighter aircraft after battle tanks were pledged for the war against Russia. Ukraine officials have urged Germany to provide its Tornado fighter jets [File: Katia Christodoulou/EPA] Chancellor Olaf Scholz has again pushed back against demands in Germany and from Ukrainian officials for fighter jets to repel Russia’s invasion, urging Western nations not to join a “bidding war” for sophisticated weapons. Last week, Germany announced it will deliver its Leopard 2 battle tanks to Ukraine after weeks of pressure from NATO and European Union allies. “The fact we’ve only just made a decision [on sending tanks] and already the next debate [fighter jets] is firing up in Germany – that just seems frivolous and undermines people’s trust in government decisions,” said [...]
COVID-19 no longer public health emergency, says DOH adviser
INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO MANILA — COVID-19 is no longer a public health emergency although it remains a global concern, going by the assessment of Dr. Rontgene Solante, an infectious disease expert and adviser to the Department of Health (DOH). Solante, chair of San Lazaro Hospital’s adult infectious diseases and tropical medicine unit and a member of the DOH vaccine expert panel, said he believed that the world was no longer in an emergency situation because there were several tools, mainly vaccines, to combat COVID-19. “We have all these interventions now compared to three years ago. We have a lot of these antiviral agents that can really prevent severe infections,” he said in a television interview. He added that there was no reason for the World Health Organization (WHO) to [...]
Bayan opposes US defense chief’s visit to Philippines
In a statement, Bayan secretary-general Renato Reyes said his group views the EDCA’s implementation as “the return of US bases in our country, a means to allow the indefinite stationing of US troops in the Philippines.” STAR / File MANILA, Philippines — Activist group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan has expressed its opposition to the upcoming visit of US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and plans to implement the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) in the Philippines. In a statement, Bayan secretary-general Renato Reyes said his group views the EDCA’s implementation as “the return of US bases in our country, a means to allow the indefinite stationing of US troops in the Philippines.” “This is a throwback to the Cold War era where countries like the Philippines were used for US [...]
Philippines willing to deport alleged robbery ringleader to Japan
MANILA— The Philippines is willing to deport Yuki Watanabe, alias "Luffy," a suspected mastermind behind a string of robberies in Japan who is now in detention in the Southeast Asian country, once a local case against him is cleared, officials said. A Philippine government source had earlier told Kyodo News that the local case against Watanabe complicated the possible handover. As Japan and the Philippines do not have an extradition treaty, that case must first be cleared before he can be deported. Watanabe has been charged with violating a law on violence against women and children, according to a local court. An investigative source said that Watanabe maybe hopes the case will be a "way to avoid" being sent back to Japan. It was not clear when the case [...]
Over 500 women in Japan used overseas sperm bank as demand grows
TOKYO— More than 500 women in Japan made use of a major Denmark-based sperm bank in the roughly three and half years through last October, a recent report by the company showed, highlighting growing domestic demand for the service. Cryos International, the world's largest sperm bank with around 1,000 registered donors, has sold sperm to single women, sexual minorities and women with infertile husbands in Japan since officially launching local consultation services in March 2019. Supplied photo shows Hiromi Ito, the head of Cryos International's Japan operations, at an academic conference on fertility treatments in Kobe, western Japan, in November 2019. (Kyodo) With only around 150 clients in Japan tallied in November 2020, recipients have jumped more than three-fold in the roughly two years to October 2022. A [...]
Bill allows President to stop PhilHealth premium hikes
A bill filed at the House of Representatives seeks to empower the president to suspend the increase in premiums of direct contributors of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth). House Bill 6772 was filed by Speaker Martin Romuldez, House Majority Leader Manuel Jose "Mannix" Dalipe, Senior Deputy Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte First District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, and Tingog Representatives Yedda Marie Romualdez and Jude Acidre. The bill seeks to amend Section 10 of Republic Act 11223 (the Universal Health Care Act), which provides the schedule of the premium rate increase. If the bill is passed into law, the president "may, upon the recommendation of the PhilHealth Board, suspend and adjust the period of implementation of the scheduled increase of premium rates during national emergencies or calamities, or [...]
Tulfo bats for total deployment ban in Kuwait
Metro Manila, Philippines– Following the gruesome death of a Filipina domestic helper in Kuwait last week, Senator Raffy Tulfo on Saturday proposed a total labor deployment ban in the Gulf state. Tulfo wants to gradually pull out overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Kuwait and send them instead to work in places where they are properly compensated and treated with respect, like Guam. “Guam is a new market for OFWs currently needing thousands of skilled workers. In fact, Guam, a United States Territory, reportedly prefers to hire more Filipino workers,” he said in a statement. Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Susan Ople earlier dismissed calls for a deployment ban, saying it might hurt international relations with other countries. “If you impose a deployment ban, you are sending a message [...]
U.S. four-star general warns of war with China in 2025
Crew members signal to a F/A-18E Super Hornet fighter jet preparing to take off for a routine flight on board the U.S. USS Nimitz aircraft carrier during a routine deployment to the South China Sea, Mid-Sea, January 27, 2023. REUTERS/Joseph Campbell/File Photo WASHINGTON- A four-star U.S. Air Force general said in a memo that his gut told him the United States would fight China in the next two years, comments that Pentagon officials said were not consistent with American military assessments. "I hope I am wrong," General Mike Minihan, who heads the Air Mobility Command, wrote to the leadership of its roughly 110,000 members. "My gut tells me will fight in 2025." The letter was dated Feb. 1 but had been sent out on Friday. The general's views do [...]
P9.49M worth of ‘smuggled’ onions seized in Zamboanga City
Agents of the Bureau of Customs seized P9.49 million of onions believed to have been smuggled into the country through the waters of Zamboanga City. In a statement, the BOC said the confiscation was based on two separate operations in Barangay Labuan on Jan. 22 and in Barangay Cawit the following day. The Jan. 22 operation involved motorized wooden watercraft marked as TIMZZAN. The vessel contained 1,624 mesh bags of imported fresh red onions, amounting to P2,598,400. The second operation involved 4,308 mesh bags of imported fresh red onions worth P6,892,800 in a jungkong-type cargo watercraft marked as MJ MARISSA. The BOC said eized onions have no Sanitary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance from the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Bureau of Plant Industry which is in violation of the Customs Modernization [...]
Solon taps LGU help to combat illiteracy
MANILA – A recent education summit in Baguio City revealed that only four out of 10 students in Grades 4 to 7 aged 9 to 12 can properly read or write in English, based on the results of tests done from 2021 to 2022. BATTLE VS. ILLITERACY. Quezon City Public Library staff Rosalie Teologo reads stories to children in Kamuning, Quezon City in this undated photo. A World Bank study released in June 2022 said learning poverty has increased by a third in low- and middle-income countries, with an estimated 70 percent of 10-year-olds unable to understand a simple written text. (PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler) The same tests showed that less than half of learners from Grades 3 to 7 aged 8 to 9 could [...]
Marcos OKs VAT Refund Program for foreign tourists
VAT REFUND PROGRAM. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. meets with members of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Tourism Sector Group at Malacañan Palace on Jan. 26, 2023. During their meeting, Marcos approved the Value-Added Tax (VAT) Refund Program for foreign tourists by 2024 to boost tourist arrivals in the country. (Photo courtesy of Bongbong Marcos Facebook page) MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has approved the Value-Added Tax (VAT) Refund Program for foreign tourists by 2024 to boost tourist arrivals in the country. In a news release on Sunday, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced that Marcos approved the VAT Refund Program following the “Quick Wins” recommendations of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Tourism Sector Group. Marcos also approved the PSAC recommendation to roll out [...]
Marcos Jr.: PH may continue to file diplomatic protests vs China if WPS incursions continue
This photo taken during an aerial patrol by the AFP Western Command in the West Philippine Sea on November 23, 2022 shows 12 Chinese fishing vessels around the eastern part of Sabina Shoal. Maj. Cherryl Tindog, AFP Western Command/handout/file MANILA, PHILIPPINES — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday said the Philippines may continue to file diplomatic protests against China if incursions and alleged harassment of Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea continue despite a verbal agreement with Chinese President Xi Jinping earlier this month. While Marcos and Xi met in Beijing in the first week of January, the Filipino leader noted that the 2 countries “haven’t come to that compromise yet” with regard to issues surrounding the disputed waters. “If the timing of what we refer to as [...]
Imported onions start to arrive
Big bulbs A vendor shows off big onions from an undisclosed origin at the Marikina City Public Market on Monday, Jan. 23, 2023. Photo by John Orven Verdote The first shipments of imported onions have arrived as part of the government's strategy to bring down the bulbs' soaring prices. Agriculture deputy spokesman Rex Estoperez told The Manila Times on Monday that 5,000 metric tons (MT) of onions are being unloaded in select ports in the country. The onion shipments will be limited to the ports of Manila, Subic, Cebu, Davao and Cagayan de Oro City. Estoperez said the importation negates the efforts of the Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives to delay the onion shipments. The bloc had filed House Joint Resolution 18 calling on the Marcos [...]
DepEd to launch a ‘new call to action’ to resolve issues in PH basic education
As it prepares to present the current state of the country’s basic education, the Department of Education (DepEd) is set to launch a “new call to action” to address the challenges faced by schools, teachers, and learners. (Photo from DepEd Facebook page) In a statement issued Monday, Jan. 23, DepEd said that it will “launch a new call to action for all Filipinos” anchored on Basic Education Report (BER) 2023 to be conducted by the end of this month. “It’s really to give the public an idea of the steps that this administration will take and also the direction of this administration towards resolving issues in basic education,” DepEd Spokesperson Michael Poa said. DepEd is set to conduct BER on Jan. 30. It will be delivered by Vice [...]
Justice vowed for OFW slain in Kuwait
Migrant Workers Secretary Susan “Toots” Ople. File Photo The Department of Migrant Workers (DWM) has vowed justice for the overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who was slain in Kuwait. Migrant Workers Secretary Susan "Toots" Ople said she has spoken with the family of Jullebee Ranara and extended the department's and her condolences. The Kuwaiti media has reported that the burned remains of the 35-year-old Ranara were found in the desert Sunday night. Ople said her agency is waiting for the official report on the incident from Kuwaiti authorities. "The DMW is closely monitoring developments on this case alongside the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) in working with Kuwaiti authorities," the official said in a statement on Monday. "Secretary Ople and the entire DMW condemns this heinous crime and urges [...]
Marcos: No plan to privatize anything
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the government has no plans to privatize "anything," especially the country’s airports. "We have no plans of privatizing anything, rather the opposite," Marcos said on Monday at a media briefing. In December, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the administration was pursuing the privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. However, Marcos said the transport chief may have misspoken. "You cannot privatize an airport, to begin with. A private firm cannot own the airport," Marcos clarified. Marcos said that during their trip to New York, they met the group that was running Gatwick Airport in the United Kingdom and asked if they could come to the country to help with the NAIA. "They were here last week to look at the [...]
France gripped by strikes, protests against pension reform
A protestor holds a placard which reads as ‘retirement before arthritis’ during a rally in Lyon, south-eastern France on January 19, 2023, as workers go on strike over the French President’s plan to raise the legal retirement age from 62 to 64. – A day of strikes and protests kicked off in France on January 19, set to disrupt transport and schooling across the country in a trial for the government as workers oppose a deeply unpopular pensions overhaul. (Photo by OLIVIER CHASSIGNOLE / AFP) PARIS, France — More than a million people marched in France on Thursday to protest pension reforms, with some demonstrators clashing with police in Paris, as strikes disrupted public transport, schools and much of the civil service. The interior ministry put the total [...]
Gov’t urged to give more support to small salt farmers
MANILA — Government should provide more support to the country's small salt farmers, the Philippine Association of Salt Industry Networks said Friday. Gerard Khonghun, the group's president, told ANC's Rundown that while there were some salt producers that went out of their way to upgrade their technology for iodization, some small salt producers could not catch up to changes. "It's not just technology or equipment or training, it also involves some change in distribution. Since it costs more you would have to have the consumer want to buy more expensive salt so that they could get proper iodine in their salt," he said. "I think this is where we need more support for the small salt farmers." The salt iodization law, passed in 1995, mandated the addition of iodine [...]
Salceda: Onion prices to go down to P50 a kilo
MANILA (UPDATED) — Consumers and businesses can soon find relief from skyrocketing prices of onions as the cost of the produce is expected to fall to P50 a kilo, a lawmaker predicted Friday. "'Yung 600 [pesos per kilo] na 'yan... it will fall to 50 pesos, it's natural price," Rep. Joey Salceda, chairperson of House committee on ways and means, told ANC's Headstart. "Everything will normalize. You can cut all my 5 fingers if it doesn't go back 50 pesos," he said. The price of onions even reached P700 per kilo in some public markets in Metro Manila during the holiday season. Salceda said anew that cartels were mainly behind the high prices of onion in the country. "Pagpasok dito, may mga mafia who has in control of the [...]
Galvez says rumblings within military merely ‘tampo’ over new law on fixed terms
Metro Manila, Philippines — Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said more than anything else, the “rumblings” within the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are just feelings of “tampo” from soldiers who are unhappy over the new law on fixed three-year terms for top officials. The Department of National Defense (DND) clarified this in a statement on Friday, three days after Galvez admitted in a Senate hearing that there are rumblings within the military. “We are listening to the concerns of our men and women in the AFP, who are understandably anxious over the perceived uncertainty in their careers under the new law,” the DND quoted Galvez as saying. Republic Act No. 11709, or the Act Strengthening Professionalism in the AFP, which took effect in July last year, aims to [...]
Jacinda Ardern resigns as New Zealand’s prime minister
PM says she doesn’t have ‘enough in the tank’ to stand for reelection in October. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern with fellow MPs after announcing her resignation | Kerry Marshall/Getty Images New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will resign from the top job “no later” than February 7, she announced on Thursday at a press conference at her party’s annual caucus meeting, saying she didn’t have “enough in the tank” to continue. Ardern, who became the youngest female head of government when she was elected prime minister in 2017 aged 37, confirmed New Zealanders will head to the polls for a national election on October 14 this year, and that she would not stand for reelection. “It’s time,” Ardern said on Thursday of her plans to step down as prime [...]
Egg supply down
A worker at the Marikina Public market sorts out trays off eggs on Friday, Jan. 13, 2023. Egg sellers said the high price of feeds and bird flu have caused a shortage in supply of eggs which, in turn, jacked up market prices. PHOTO BY MIKE DE JUAN (UPDATE) THE bird flu outbreak in Luzon, coupled with the high cost of feeds, has been blamed for the shortage of eggs that causes prices to soar. The bird flu led to the culling of 7 million chickens, drastically cutting egg production, the Philippine Egg Board said. In an interview with The Manila Times, Batangas Egg Producers Association (BEPA) President Dr. Jesus Medina admitted that egg production and prices were affected by the avian influenza outbreak. "There is [shortage of [...]
PH won’t concede territorial claims in SCS: PBBM
MANILA – The Philippines will not relinquish its territorial claims in the hotly-contested South China Sea (SCS), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. maintained on Tuesday (Zurich time). In an interview with Bloomberg on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Marcos emphasized that pursuing diplomatic talks with China to settle the maritime dispute is not tantamount to abandoning the Philippines' claims to the SCS. "We cannot concede any of the territorial claims that are being made against our established territory. That is the red line," Marcos said. "That is something that will not move. It's something that we cannot cross because it's a very slippery road from there," he added. This, as Marcos admitted that breaking the stalemate between the Philippines and China was "difficult" because [...]
Marcos Explains New Appointments Amid Destabilization Rumors
President Marcos said Gen. Andres Centino’s reinstatement as Armed Forces of the Philippines chief was meant to “rationalize” the seniority in the military. President Marcos departs from Villamor Airbase in Pasay City on Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023 to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Photo by KJ Rosales, The Philippine STAR ON BOARD PR 001 – President Marcos explained his surprising decision to reinstate Gen. Andres Centino as chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), revealing that the move was meant to address some concerns and lift the morale of military officers. Earlier this month, Centino took his oath as military chief, replacing Lt. Gen. Bartolome Bacarro, who had succeeded him last August. Rumors of a military destabilization plot swirled following the unusual change [...]
Climate activist Greta Thunberg detained by police in Germany at coal mine protest
Climate activist Greta Thunberg has been detained by German police at a protest over the expansion of a coal mine in the west German village of Lützerath. This is the second time Thunberg has been detained at the site, police spokesperson Christof Hüls told CNN Tuesday. She was part of a large group of protesters that broke through a police barrier and encroached on a coal pit, which authorities have not been able to secure entirely, Hüls said. After the group advanced on the coal pit, police were concerned that the “masses of protesters” could set the ground in motion after it had been softened by rainfall during the last few days. Officers intervened, removing people from the “danger area” and detaining them, one of whom was Thunberg, according [...]
Shear line to bring rains over Metro Manila, parts of Luzon: PAGASA
MANILA -- A shear line over the eastern sections of Southern Luzon and Visayas will bring rains to parts of Luzon on Wednesday, according to state weather bureau PAGASA. In its latest 24-hour public weather forecast, PAGASA said cloudy skies with scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms are possible over Metro Manila, CALABARZON, Bicol Region, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, and Aurora due to the shear line. Flooding or landslides due to moderate to heavy rains are likely in these areas, said state meteorologists. Meanwhile, Apayao and Cagayan Valley may have cloudy skies with rains due to the northeast monsoon or amihan. The rest of Luzon will also be affected by the amihan on Wednesday, PAGASA noted. The rest of the country, meanwhile, may face partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers [...]
Philippines mangrove loss ‘second worst’ in Southeast Asia: UP scientists
A fisherman rides his canoe at the Wawa River in Nasugbu, Batangas on June 20, 2020, as other boats are tied to mangroves along the stream bank. Domcar C. Lagto, ABS-CBN News/File MANILA — The Philippines suffered the "second worst" loss of mangroves in Southeast Asia over a 2-decade period, scientists from the University of the Philippines said. Philippine mangroves saw a 10.5 percent decline between 1990 and 2010, researchers said in their review of 335 studies, said to be the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. The disaster-prone Philippines "is surpassed only by Myanmar, which suffered a 27.6 percent loss between 2000 and 2014," according to the study by UP PhD Biology student Maria Elisa Gerona-Daga and Institute of Biology Associate Professor Dr. Severino Salmo III. [...]
VP Duterte seeks closer PH-China ties based on ‘mutual respect’
Despite territorial conflicts between the Philippines and China, Vice President Sara Duterte is hopeful that both countries will enjoy “closer” bilateral ties based on “mutual trust and mutual respect.” VP Sara Duterte delivers a message to the Chinese Embassy in Manila’s celebration of the Chinese New Year on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023. (Photo from Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian via Facebook) During her Chinese New Year video message to the Chinese Embassy in Manila’s celebration on Monday, Jan. 16, the official took note of what the New Year and the recent state visit of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. meant for the countries’ relationship. “With the President’s successful and substantive state visit to China earlier this month, I look forward to having closer bilateral ties between the Philippines and [...]
Vietnamese president resigns amid corruption scandals
ISTANBUL -- Vietnam’s President Nguyen Xuan Phuc stepped down on Tuesday, taking responsibility for alleged violations committed by his ministers with regard to Covid-19 response management. Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc The ministers were found to have “committed violations in connection with Covid-19 test kits and repatriation flights,” according to the Vietnam News website. Phuc stepped down after the 13th-tenure Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam decided Tuesday “to relieve Nguyen Xuan Phuc of all duties, including the presidency, Politburo, and Party Central Committee membership, and chairman of the National Defense and Security Council for the 2021-26 term.” Acknowledging that Phuc made “many efforts in leading the national Covid-19 response and achieved important accomplishments,” the party said: [...]
Marcos: Asia-Pacific countries can prosper without them ‘taking sides’
ZURICH, Switzerland — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has called on Asia-Pacific countries to start charting their own destiny far from the intense geopolitical rivalry in the region. President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. (Malacañang photo) Marcos said this during a luncheon hosted for him and Filipino business leaders by the economic team in Davos. The President is in Switzerland for the 2023 World Economic Forum (WEF). In his speech, President Marcos said Asia-Pacific countries face pressure to take sides due to intense geopolitical tension in the region. However, he said the region should not embrace the Cold War mentality, which dictates that they must choose sides. The Cold War forced countries to choose whether to be under the Soviet Union or the United States spheres of influence. “I [...]
7 PH biz tycoons in Davos to support PBBM
ZURICH, Switzerland — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s participation in the annual World Economic Forum (WEF) has gotten the backing of seven of the country’s most prominent businessmen, Malacañang said. Aboitiz President and CEO Sabin Aboitiz speaks at the luncheon with President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos and other Filipino business leaders in Davos, Switzerland. Marcos is in Switzerland for the 2023 World Economic Forum. (Malacañang photo) In a statement, Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said the following business tycoons joined the President and his official delegation in Davos: Sabin Aboitiz (Aboitiz) Kevin Andrew Tan (Alliance Global) Jaime Zobel de Ayala (Ayala Group) Lance Gokongwei (JG Summit Holdings) Ramon Ang (San Miguel Corp.) Teresita Sy-Coson (SM Investments) Enrique Razon (International Container Terminal) President Marcos and his official delegation, composed of government officials [...]
6 cold storage facilities to be built in onion-producing regions
MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) will build six cold storage facilities in four onion-producing regions starting this year in support of local farmers. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon) Each facility with a capacity of 20,000 bags will cost up to PHP40 million and will rise in the Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon and Mimaropa regions. “Tayuan po ng mga storage facility nang sa gayon during peak season ngharvest, malagyan na. Hindi po sagot ang importation. Napakalaking potensyal po ng lugar namin (Let’s build storage facilities so that during peak harvest season, we can utilize it. Importation is not the answer. Our place has a big potential),” San Jose, Occidental Mindoro agriculturist Romel [...]
Unrest in military appeased ‘for now’
FROM THE OUTSIDE LOOKING IN Former Defense secretary Norberto Gonzales (center) talks to Manila Times Chairman and CEO Dante ‘Klink’ Ang 2nd (right) and columnist and former senator Francisco ‘Kit’ Tatad (left) on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023, on the recent controversial appointments by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., especially in the return of Gen. Andres Centino as Armed Forces chief, and its possible impact on the establishment and the government. In the foreground are reporters Kristina Maralit and Franco Barona. PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA THE naming of a new Defense chief and National Security Adviser (NSA) by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. may have quelled the growing unrest within the military "for now," but other crucial matters require further attention, a former defense official said. Norberto Gonzales, who [...]
Lower tax, higher salary under TRAIN law
MANILA – Middle-income earners will have lower income taxes this year and thus, higher take-home pay, under Republic Act No 10963 or the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law. (PNA photo by Rico H. Borja) Taxpayers earning more than PHP250,000 a year but not over PHP8 million will be subject to lower income tax rates ranging from 15 percent to 30 percent, from the previous 20 percent to 32 percent. Those with annual taxable income of PHP250,000 or below will continue to be exempt from paying income taxes. “Inaasahan natin na lalo pang lalakas ang domestic consumption na may malaking kontribusyon sa paglago ng ating ekonomiya. Dahil sa pinababang buwis, mas [...]
Diokno introduces PH sovereign fund to economic leaders in Switzerland
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 17) — Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno on Tuesday presented to economic leaders in Switzerland the Marcos administration’s plan to establish a sovereign fund “to support the goals set” for the Philippines. According to Malacañang, Diokno told attendees of the luncheon gathering in Davos, Switzerland that the Philippines is taking its first steps toward launching the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF). “The fund, which will be established in keeping with the highest standards of accountability and sound fiscal management, aims to diversify the country’s financial portfolio,” the Finance chief said. Diokno also said he looks forward to discussing the proposed MIF during the World Economic Forum (WEF). “May the next few days bring forth more intensive collaboration and cooperation towards genuine economic transformation," he added. President [...]
BBM off to Davos for World Economic Forum
DAVOS AND DSWD Economist Ramon Orosa (left) talks about the importance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s participation in the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland this coming week. Department of Social Welfare and Development Officer in Charge Eduardo Punay discusses the agency’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) as part of the administration’s poverty reduction strategy, cash assistance or ayuda to the disadvantaged, educational assistance to poor students, relief operations in natural disasters, and livelihood generation activities for the marginalized at the Dapo Restaurant in Quezon City on Saturday, Jan. 14 2023. PHOTO BY JOHN ORVEN VERDOTE PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. will present the Philippines' economic performance and his administration's priorities when he joins other world leaders in the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Switzerland next week. Marcos, [...]
Año is new National Security Adviser
MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Eduardo Año as the new National Security Adviser (NSA), Malacañang announced on Saturday. NEW CHIEF. Eduardo Año (center), accompanied by his wife, Jean, is sworn in as the new National Security Adviser by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace in Manila on Saturday (Jan. 14, 2023). Año, the former Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government of the Duterte administration, replaced Clarita Carlos who transferred to the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department of the House of Representatives. (PCO photo) Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil confirmed Año’s appointment after the oath-taking at the Palace on Saturday. “Former DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government) Secretary Eduardo Año took his oath [...]
Gov’t studying China’s proposal to tie up with PH fishing villages
National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos said on Friday that the government was looking into China’s proposed partnership with Filipino fishing villages. “We are strengthening people-to-people exchanges. China is proposing a partnership between fishing villages, and we are looking into it,” she said in Filipino in a televised briefing. Carlos said the discussions between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing went well as the dialogue on West Philippine Sea issues continued. The Philippines had filed multiple diplomatic protests over China’s alleged harassment of Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea. Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian, for his part, said the South China Sea can become “a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation” as long as Beijing and the Philippines find a “common ground” in resolving disputes. [...]
Roque to SolGen: Appeal SC decision on joint exploration deal
Metro Manila, Philippines— The Office of the Solicitor General should file a 'convincing' appeal on the Supreme Court decision that invalidated the joint maritime exploration in the West Philippine Sea, a former Malacañang official said on Friday. Harry Roque, former presidential spokesperson and founder of the Center for International Law, said the high court decision over the Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking (JMSU) between the Philippines, China, and Vietnam in 2005 could potentially worsen disputes in the West Philippine Sea. "That decision is wrong, it simply is wrong. You do not apply the Constitution to one area which is described as forming part of the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)," said Roque in a speech during a media event organized [...]
Japan to release treated Fukushima water this year
DEADLY LIQUID This file picture, taken on March 5, 2022, shows an employee conducting a tritium measurement on a sample of contaminated water at the Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco) Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant in Okuma, Fukushima prefecture. Japan plans to start releasing more than a million tons of treated water from the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant into the ocean this year, a top government spokesman said on Friday, Jan. 13, 2023. AFP PHOTO TOKYO— Japan plans to start releasing more than a million tons of treated water from the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant into the ocean this year, a top government spokesman said Friday. The plan has been endorsed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), but the government will wait for "a comprehensive report" [...]
Abalos: 95% of top cops have submitted courtesy resignation, still waiting for remaining 50 officers
Metro Manila, Philippines— Around 95% of top officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP) have submitted their courtesy resignation, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said Friday. In a briefing, the PNP said this translates to 904 of the 954 full colonels and generals expected to tender their resignation in a bid to cleanse their ranks of illegal drug links. “Wala pa naman sinasabi,” Abalos said when asked about the possible reason of the remaining 50 police officials who have not yet submitted their courtesy resignation. “Kasi ‘yong iba diyan mga magre-retire na, alam mo ‘yong mga one month to retire may mga gano’n e,” he explained. [Translation: They have not yet said why. There are those that are nearing their retirement, there are cases that they have one month left before [...]
VP Sara to discuss challenges, action plans in education report
MANILA – Vice President and Education secretary Sara Duterte will present to the public the challenges and target action plan for the Basic Education Report (BER) on Jan. 30, according to the Department of Education (DepEd). (PNA file photo) In an interview, DepEd spokesperson Michael Poa stressed the education chief's presentation intends to uphold transparency and inclusivity for stakeholders across all sectors, particularly in the disclosure of educational status in the Philippines. "Ang daming challenges ng basic education. Iisa-isahin natin. Ilalahad natin kung ano po yung challenges ng basic education. Aside from that, syempre nalatag natin yung challenges, ang department ay maglalatag ng [...]
Review of K to 12 curriculum still ongoing: DepEd
The review of the K to 12 curriculum is still ongoing, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Wednesday, Jan. 11, said. DepEd / MB Visual Content Group In a Viber message, DepEd Spokesperson Michael Poa told reporters that the “review is still ongoing” for the K to 12 basic education curriculum. DepEd, in a statement dated Jan. 10, said that the is set to conduct the Basic Education Report 2023 (BER) on Jan. 30, 2023. “The BER 2023 aims to present the state of basic education in the country, and the plans and initiatives of the Department to fulfill its mandate,” DepEd said. DepEd added that also intends to “provide a broad report about the basic education sector” which will include updates on the ongoing review of the [...]
Next food concern: DA sets price watch on eggs
FOR CLOSE MONITORING | The Department of Agriculture is reactivating a price monitoring committee and tapping several advisory groups in the poultry sector to focus on the demand-and-supply situation in the egg industry. (Photo by GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE / Philippine Daily Inquirer) MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Another important food commodity is adding to price woes that the Marcos administration must now grapple with: eggs, which are a key source of protein for many Filipinos. Based on the price monitoring report of the Department of Agriculture (DA), the selling price for a single, medium-sized egg in markets in Metro Manila ranges from as low as P6.90 to as high as P8.70 as of Wednesday, higher than the price range of P5 [...]
Cost-of-living crisis biggest global risk: Davos study
Pedestrians on their way to work, cross London Bridge in central London on October 12, 2022. – Britain’s economy unexpectedly shrank in August after slender growth the previous month, hit by the cost-of-living crisis and rocketing energy bills, official data showed Wednesday. (Photo by CARLOS JASSO / AFP) London, United Kingdom— The cost-of-living crisis will be the biggest global risk over the next two years, a survey by the World Economic Forum warned Wednesday ahead of its Davos meeting next week. Global inflation remains at sky-high levels after energy and food costs rocketed last year following the invasion of agricultural powerhouse Ukraine by major oil and gas producer Russia. Supply constraints caused by the Covid pandemic have also contributed to decades-high consumer prices. “Conflict and geo-economic tensions have triggered [...]
LRT-1, LRT-2 fare hike looms after LTFRB approves petition
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has approved proposed fare increases in both the LRT-1 and the LRT-2. According to Joseph Morong's exclusive report on "24 Oras", the LTFRB okayed the additional P2.29 boarding fare and 21 centavos for every kilometer on both LRT lines. Fare between the Roosevelt and Balintawak stations on LRT-2 will be P15 for those using stored value cards or P20 for those using single journey tickets. Fare between Recto to Legarda stations on LRT-1 will be P12 for stored value card users or P15 for single journey ticket users, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista needs to approve the fare increases for them to be in effect. “Sang-ayon naman po kami doon sa P2 na increase nila. We also checked on the needs of the [...]
SC declares illegal the joint SCS oil survey by PH, China, Vietnam
The Supreme Court on Tuesday declared as unconstitutional the 2005 Tripartite Agreement for Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking (JMSU) among China National Offshore Oil Corp. (CNOOC), Vietnam Oil and Gas Corp. (PETROVIETNAM), and the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) covering 142,886 square kilometers in the South China Sea. Voting 12-2 with one associate justice abstaining, the SC resolved to declare JMSU as unconstitutional “for allowing wholly-owned foreign corporations to participate in the exploration of the country’s natural resources without observing the safeguards provided in Section 2, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution.” The en banc decision penned by Associate Justice Samuel H. Gaerlan was not immediately available, but the SC Public Information Office released the summary of the ruling. This came a day after the Department of Energy said it [...]
Ukraine says PH yet to respond to proposed Marcos-Zelensky talks
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Ukrainian government on Wednesday said it has been waiting for the Philippines' response to its proposed phone conversation between the presidents of the two countries. In a press briefing, the Ukrainian Embassy in Malaysia, which also has jurisdiction in the Philippines, said a formal request was made in June last year for a phone meeting between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but Manila has yet to reply. "We are requesting for a phone call with the president of Ukraine and at that time we haven't got a reply from the presidential office yet. No response yet, we have been following it up regularly, twice a month," said Denys Mykhailiuk, Chargé d'affaires of the Ukrainian Embassy. Ukraine said it hopes both sides can [...]
DILG: 60% of PNP officials submitted courtesy resignations
At least 60% or more than 500 high-ranking police officials have submitted their courtesy resignations as part of the internal cleansing in the Philippine National Police (PNP), Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said Monday. “Right now, I would like to thank those who have already given their resignations. We’re nearing 60 percent,” Abalos said in an interview on CNN Philippines. “Marami po kaming nare-receive na magagandang comments dito talagang yung mga support from the regional commanders, different services na lalabas at lalabas din ito. I would like to thank you, lahat po ng taong sumasama sa panawagang ito,” he added. Last week, the Interior Secretary appealed to all PNP full colonels and generals to submit their courtesy resignation as part of the government's efforts to rid the police force of [...]
1,000 Filipino nurses affected by strike vs. 2 New York City hospitals
Filipino nurses join others in a strike on Monday, January 9, 2023, after the management of two hospitals in New York City - the Montefiore Medical Center and Mount Sinai Hospital - and the New York State Nurses Association had a deadlock in negotiation regarding staffing implementation. DAVE LLAVANES JR. NEW YORK CITY - Around 1,000 Filipino nurses were affected by a strike conducted by nurses from two hospitals in New York City. More than 7,000 nurses at Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx and Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan staged the strike after the management of the two hospitals and the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA) did not come to an agreement regarding additional staffing. The nurses conducted the strike starting at 6 a.m. Monday, affecting the [...]
P11-M project seen to boost Mt. Province coffee production
BAGUIO CITY, PHILIPPINES— The Department of Agriculture (DA) has approved a PHP11.12 million project for a coffee consolidation enterprise in Mountain Province that is expected to further boost its production of the high-value commodity. AMONG THE BEST. The Cordillera Administrative Region produces one of the best coffee in the country based on coffee cupping competitions farmer-growers attended. The Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project had been supporting endeavors aimed at improving the quality of the products like the recently approved coffee enterprise of a cooperative in Mountain Province where a provision for a processing facility, equipment, capital for consolidation, and transport for hauling was recently approved. (PNA file photo by Liza T. Agoot) “Our farmers in the Cordillera do not have hectares of land to plant coffee on [...]
PNP chief sees no AFP ‘destabilization’ plot
Metro Manila, Philippines – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. is convinced that there is no destabilization plot in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). “As far as the destabilization is concerned, I don’t think there is one,” Azurin said in a press briefing Monday. The police chief also clarified that the AFP B150 helicopter shown hovering over Camp Crame in a photo was only undergoing a regular maintenance check-up. “I also talked to the newly installed chief of staff Sir Andres Centino last night, and he gave the assurance that the PNP and the AFP will work hand-in-hand in ensuring that the Marcos administration will be very stable,” he added. ‘Fake memo’ Over the weekend, a memorandum signed by Lt. Col. Dexter Ominga – a [...]
Marcos visit to test ‘how truthful’ China is to pledges – analysts
This handout photograph released by the Office of the Press Secretary and taken on Jan. 4, 2023, shows China’s President Xi Jinping (left) and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr reviewing an honor guard during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of People in Beijing. (Photo from the Office of the Press Secretary via Agence France-Presse) MANILA, PHILIPPINES — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s three-day state visit to China last week would “test the waters and examine how truthful China can be on its words and promises,” according to analysts. According to Marcos, his visit generated $22 billion in investment pledges, “some of [which] have already started.” The Philippines and China also entered into 14 bilateral agreements on such areas as agriculture, tourism, energy, and maritime security. The president in [...]
90% of people in China province infected
Patients with Covid-19 coronavirus rest in a hallway at Fengyang People's Hospital in Fengyang County in east China's Anhui Province on January 5, 2023. Noel Celis / AFP BEIJING, CHINA— Almost 90 percent of people in China's third most populous province have now been infected with Covid-19, a top official said Monday, as the country battles an unprecedented surge in cases. Kan Quancheng, director of the health commission for central Henan province, said that "as of January 6, 2023, the province's Covid infection rate is 89.0 percent." With a population of 99.4 million, the figures suggest about 88.5 million people in Henan may now have been infected. Visits to fever clinics peaked on December 19, Kan said, "after which it showed a continuous downward trend." China is battling a [...]
Metro Manila Subway construction begins
SUBWAY LAUNCHING President Marcos leads the launching of the 33-kilometer Metro Manila Subway Project in Valenzuela City on Monday. —MARIANNE BERMUDEZ MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The tunnel works for the first contract package (CP) of the 33-kilometer Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) started on Monday, following the launching of the tunnel boring machine (TBM) at its depot in Valenzuela City. “Today’s start of tunneling work signifies a point of no return. We are going full speed ahead to complete the country’s first subway,” Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said during the launching ceremony. CP 101 includes the construction of a depot in Valenzuela City, Quezon Highway (QH) station, Tandang Sora (TS) station and North Avenue (NA) station. It was awarded in 2019 to the joint venture of Shimizu Corp., Fujita Corp., Takenaka [...]
Galvez accepts appointment as Defense secretary
Metro Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has named presidential peace adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. as the new head of the Department of National Defense (DND). A statement from Presidential Communications Office OIC Cheloy Garafil on Monday confirmed that Sr. Usec. Jose Faustino Jr. has resigned from his post, and that Marcos offered Galvez the DND position. The Palace did not give a reason for Faustino's resignation. "It is with deep regret that the President has accepted the resignation of DND OIC Sr. Usec. Jose Faustino Jr. The President has offered the position of DND Secretary to Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr. and he has accepted,” the statement read. Faustino, who served as chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines [...]
Unemployed Filipinos reach 2.18M in November
Metro Manila , Philippines — The number of jobless Filipinos hit 2.18 million in November, a decrease from the 2.24 million estimated a month prior, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Friday. This is equivalent to a national unemployment rate of 4.2%. Businesses were expected to hire seasonal workers during the fourth quarter as it is their strongest period amid the holiday spending. Higher prices, however, still haunted Filipino consumers, with the inflation rate spiking to 8% in November.
Durian, PH fruits’ entry into China to help cut trade gap
NEW MARKET The Davao region, the country’s main source of durian, has reason to cheer, according to the President. —INQUIRER FILE PHOTO BEIJING—It may well be one of the most tangible results of President Marcos’ state visit to China—and it “stinks.” China has pledged to import durian, along with a host of other tropical fruits, from the Philippines as part of efforts to narrow the wide trade deficit between the two countries, Mr. Marcos said. Manila and Beijing have been finalizing the rules and regulations for the importation of Philippine fruits, notably including the pungent-smelling but tasty durian, “to balance the trade situation that we have,” the President said. “There has been created what we are now calling the ‘Durian Protocol’ because they are opening their trade to [...]
Marcos’ China visit reaps $22.8B in investment pledges
Metro Manila, Philippines - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced on Thursday that his meetings with Chinese businessmen during his trip to Beijing yielded a total of $22.8 billion (over ₱1.2 trillion) in investment pledges. "There has been an overwhelming response from the Chinese business community on the investment and trade opportunities in our economy," Marcos said during his arrival speech in Manila after his Jan. 3 to 5 state visit to China. "When realized, these investments will support our country's economic recovery efforts and create more jobs for Filipinos," he added. According to the Office of the Press Secretary (OPS), the commitments include $13.76 billion for renewable energy, $7.32 billion for electric vehicle and mineral processing, and $1.72 billion for agribusiness. On renewable energy, the OPS noted that interest is [...]
Marcos, PH delegation unscathed from China visit
No one from the Philippine delegation tested positive for Covid-19 as they returned from Covid-stricken China on Thursday, Jan. 5. President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. (Noel Pabalate) Around 200 Filipinos, who were part of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr’s state visit to China, were able to return to the country unscathed over Covid-19 threat in the foreign land. This was according to the antigen test results of the entire delegation upon arriving at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Malacañang said. All members of the Philippine delegation were tested for Covid on Wednesday night before departing Beijing the next day. The delegation was also required to present a negative RT-PCR test before departing the Philippines onboard the presidential plane PR 001. Upon arrival on Jan. 3 in Beijing, [...]
84% of Filipinos believe PH should work with US to defend WPS – survey
Eighty-four percent of Filipinos believe that the current administration should team up with the United States (US) in strengthening security cooperation to defend the country’s national sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea, results of the latest survey of Pulse Asia revealed on Thursday, Jan. 5. President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. (Noel Pabalate) Pulse Asia President Ronald Holmes released the survey results during a forum organized by Stratbase ADR Institute and the United States Embassy. The survey was conducted on November 27 to December 1, 2022, and was commissioned by Stratbase. According to the pollster, aside from the US, 52 percent of Filipinos also believe that the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. should also work with Japan, 25 percent with Australia, 24 percent with the United Kingdom, [...]
Foreigners now banned from buying homes in Canada
GETTY IMAGES Canada's largest cities - Toronto and Vancouver - rank among the most unaffordable housing markets in the world A two-year ban on some foreigners buying homes in Canada has come into effect. The ban aims to help ease one of the most unaffordable housing markets in the world. As of this summer, the average home price in Canada is C$777,200 ($568,000; £473,700) - more than 11 times the median household income after taxes. Some have been critical of the ban, saying it is unclear what impact it will have on Canada's housing market. Non-Canadian residents make up less than 6% of homeowners in Ontario and British Columbia, where national statistics indicate home prices are the highest. As of 1 January, the ban prohibits people who are not [...]
European weather: Winter heat records smashed all over continent
EPA Spain has seen unseasonably warm weather over the Christmas period Temperatures for January have reached an all-time high in a number of nations across Europe. National records have fallen in eight countries - and regional records in another three. Warsaw, Poland, saw 18.9C (66F) on Sunday while Bilbao, Spain, was 25.1C - more than 10C above average. The mild European weather comes as North America faces more severe storms, days after a deadly winter cold snap left more than 60 dead. Heavy snow and freezing rain have been forecast for parts of the northern Midwest while severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are expected in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana. But on the European side of the Atlantic, the weather has been balmy for many places at the start [...]
Some Chinese travelers positive for COVID, placed in isolation
A few travelers from China tested positive for COVID-19 and were now in isolation, the director of the Bureau of Quarantine said Tuesday, but he added that only the partially vaccinated or unvaccinated were tested upon entering the country. “Many Chinese have arrived, but we only require antigen tests for those who were partially vaccinated,” said the bureau’s director, Roberto Salvador Jr., speaking in Filipino to GMA News. Salvador did not say how many had tested positive but said there were only a few of them. Foreign travelers who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are required to present a negative test result from an antigen or RT-PCR test before traveling or upon arrival in the Philippines. Unlike a growing number of countries, the Philippines has not imposed stricter [...]
PH debt still at record high in November at ₱13.64T
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippines got some relief from the strengthening of the peso against the US dollar, as the national debt only slightly rose in November to hit ₱13.64 trillion. However, the country's debt remained at a record high level, increasing by 0.02% or ₱3.15 billion from October, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) said Tuesday. The latest data also showed an increase of ₱1.92 trillion, or a 16.33% hike, from 2021's debt pile. The majority of the outstanding obligations were still raised from local sources. Domestic debt increased by 0.78% to ₱9.43 trillion. Loans from foreign sources, on the other hand, were slashed by 1.62% to ₱4.22 trillion, mainly owing to the ₱106.98 billion impact of the peso appreciation. According to the bureau, the local unit gained [...]
Marcos: PH-China ties entering ‘new chapter’
RANGE OF ISSUES | President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos board the plane to Beijing on Tuesday afternoon for his three-day state visit to China. (Photo by MARIANNE BERMUDEZ / Philippine Daily Inquirer) MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. flew to China on Tuesday for a three-day state visit, as he seeks to open what he called Manila’s “new chapter” with Beijing even amid lingering tensions due to political and security issues in the West Philippine Sea. In a speech before boarding his flight at Villamor Air Base, the president said he was looking forward to discussing “political-security issues of a bilateral and regional nature” with Chinese President Xi Jinping. “The issues between our [...]
President suspends PhilHealth premium rate hike, income ceiling
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday ordered the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to suspend the increase of its premium rate and income ceiling for the calendar year 2023, the Palace announced on the eve of Mr. Marcos’ trip to China. This was confirmed by the Office of the Press Secretary and the Office of the Executive Secretary. The memorandum, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, refers to the “scheduled increase of the premium rate from 4 percent to 4.5 percent, and income ceiling from P80,000 to P90,000 for CY (Calendar Year) 2023 under Section 10 of Republic Act No. 11223.” “In light of the prevailing socio-economic challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, and to provide financial relief to our countrymen amidst these difficult times, please be informed [...]
PBBM off to China for three-day trip, sea issues up in talks with Xi Jinping
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to raise important issues affecting bilateral ties between the Philippines and China—including maritime concerns in the West Philippine Sea—as he leaves at 1 p.m. today (Tuesday) for a three-day state visit to Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Mr. Marcos, who will have a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, will also witness the signing of 14 bilateral agreements on trade and investments, agriculture, renewable energy, infrastructure, development cooperation, and people-to-people ties. “We do not wish to preempt or second guess what the president will say, but the president will raise important issues affecting our bilateral relations… The president has said the maritime issues don’t define the totality of our relationship with China, but he acknowledges the importance of [...]
Trough of LPA brings rain in Visayas, Mindanao, Palawan
The low pressure area (LPA) that is in the boundary but still outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) may enter the country but has a less chance to develop into a tropical depression. This is according to weather specialist Obet Padrina of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) who told The Manila Times that its trough is affecting many areas in Visayas and Mindanao, as well as Palawan. "There is still that possibility that the LPA may enter PAR but it is less likely to develop into a tropical depression. In fact, it has a bigger chance of dissipating in [the] coming days," Badrina said. The state-run weather agency said Metro Manila, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon), Cagayan Valley, Aurora, and Bicol Region [...]
Australia helicopter collision: Four dead in mid-air incident over Gold Coast
Four people have died after a mid-air collision between two helicopters near Sea World on Australia's Gold Coast. Queensland Police say initial investigations suggest the crash happened as one aircraft was taking off and the other was landing. Those who died were travelling in the same helicopter. Three other passengers are in a critical condition. Two UK citizens were among those killed in the crash, a foreign office spokesperson told the BBC. They added that officials were supporting the families of the two victims - who have not been named - and would remain "in contact with the local authorities". Five of the six people on the other aircraft, which made an emergency landing, suffered minor injuries. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the country had been left shocked by [...]
Third of world in recession this year, IMF head warns
REUTERS/International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva A third of the global economy will be in recession this year, the head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned. Kristalina Georgieva said 2023 will be "tougher" than last year as the US, EU and China see their economies slow. It comes as the war in Ukraine, rising prices, higher interest rates and the spread of Covid in China weigh on the global economy. In October the IMF cut its global economic growth outlook for 2023. "We expect one third of the world economy to be in recession," Ms Georgieva said on the CBS news programme Face the Nation. "Even countries that are not in recession, it would feel like recession for hundreds of millions of people," she added. The [...]
Researchers hope to build New Zealand’s biofuel industry
A Rotorua company is hoping to end the country's reliance on fossil fuels. (file picture) Photo: 123RF New Zealand could be making its own biofuel within the next five years. Scion, a Rotorua-based research institute, hopes to end the country's reliance on imported fossil fuels by establishing a bio-energy industry here. Integrated bio-energy portfolio leader Paul Bennett said his team had already made significant progress. "We're looking at ways of converting [organic materials] into useful energy products, whether they're solids, liquids, or gaseous. "We are able to produce liquids from wood, and those liquids are getting closer and closer to the sort of fuels that are used in the market at the moment." Scion's wood-based aviation fuel was its most promising product, and would likely be the first to [...]
Gov’t to update PH energy plan, including nuclear power use — Palace
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Marcos administration is eyeing to expand the country’s energy sources by updating the Philippine Energy Plan with the use of nuclear power as one of its priorities, Malacañang said on Sunday. The Office of the Press Secretary (OPS) said the Department of Energy (DOE) will be the agency responsible for updating the Philippine Energy Plan to guide the Nuclear Energy Program Implementing Organization (NEPIO) and the Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC). “The use of nuclear power is also an important part of the energy mix that the DOE is eyeing,” the OPS said in a statement. Marcos has been vocal about his interest in revisiting policies on nuclear energy use and in building nuclear power plants in the country. During the last quarter [...]
LIST: Canceled flights due to NAIA air traffic system woes, January 2
Here are affected flights on Monday, January 2 This page will be updated as advisories come in. MANILA, Philippines – Hundreds of flights have been affected since Sunday, January 1, when technical issues hounded the air traffic management system of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. Philippine airport officials announced the cancellation of the following flights as of 9:30 am, Monday, January 2: International Cebu Pacific 5J 845 Manila-Dubai 5J 760 Jakarta-Manila 5J 502 Kula Lumpur-Manila 5J 804 Singapore-Manila Domestic Cebu Pacific 5J 885 Manila-Cotabato 5J 504 Manila-Tuguegarao 5J 891 Manila-Caticlan 5J 625 Manila-Puerto Princesa 5J 6055 Caticlan-Manila 5J 447 Manila-Iloilo 5J 381 Manila-Cagayan de Oro 5J 473 Manila-Bacolod 5J 963 Manila-Davao 5J 785 Manila-Butuan 5J 627 Manila-Dumaguete 5J 451/452 Manila-Iloilo-Manila 5J 383/384 Manila-Cagayan de Oro-Manila 5J 561/562 [...]
What you need to know about Marcos’ state visit to China
From ‘durian diplomacy' to the latest issues in the West Philippine Sea, here’s what you need to know about the Philippine president’s first state visit outside Southeast Asia MANILA, Philippines – Despite concerns over the renewed spread of COVID-19 in China, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will push through with his state visit to the regional economic giant from January 3 to 5, 2023. “May mga pagbisita talaga na hindi natin puwede i-postpone (There are some visits that we cannot postpone),” Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Nathaniel Imperial told media during a briefing on Thursday, December 29. The importance and urgency of the trip is understandable. According to Imperial, the visit will “set the tone of bilateral relations between the next five to six years.” Why [...]
Marcos Jr. rings in New Year with unity call: ‘Bayanihan’ will keep us going
FROM FILE PHOTOS MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Sunday urged Filipinos to “embody the true meaning of solidarity” in 2023 as he stressed that the spirit of “bayanihan” will keep the nation going amid all challenges. In his New Year message, Marcos said he “[joins] the entire Filipino nation with hope and optimism in welcoming the New Year.” “As we reflect on the events that transpired in the previous year, I hope that we will draw strength and inspiration from what truly binds us together–our genuine love for our fellow Filipinos and country,” he said. Marcos pointed out that “this is the essence of our call for unity and the impetus for [...]
Australian government announces mandatory Covid-19 testing for China travellers
Travellers from China will be required to prove a negative Covid-19 test prior to visiting Australia. Photo: HECTOR RETAMAL / AFP From 5 January, travellers from China to Australia will be required to have a negative pre-departure Covid-19 test, and New Zealand says it is now assessing the health risks. China has seen skyrocketing Covid case numbers, and a range of other countries including the United Kingdom, the United States and France have also imposed testing requirements. NZ government duty minister Stuart Nash said tonight that New Zealand is currently assessing the situation. "I've been informed today that Australia has announced pre-departure testing for travellers arriving from China. This measure is being taken in response to the rapidly unfolding situation in China. "New Zealand has a public health [...]
Putin says in New Year message West is using Ukraine to destroy Russia
FILE PHOTO: Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a news conference in Minsk, Belarus December 19, 2022. Sputnik/Pavel Bednyakov/Kremlin via REUTERS/ Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday (Dec 31) his country would never give in to the West's attempts to use Ukraine as a tool to destroy Russia. In a New Year's video message broadcast on Russian state TV, Putin said Russia was fighting in Ukraine to protect its "motherland" and to secure "true independence" for its people. In a nine-minute message - the longest New Year's address of his two-decade rule - Putin accused the West of lying to Russia and of provoking Moscow to launch what it calls a "special military operation" in Ukraine. "For years, Western elites hypocritically assured us of their peaceful intentions," he [...]
More nations wary of China Covid threat
BEIJING: Spain, South Korea and Israel on Friday joined nations imposing Covid tests on travelers from China after Beijing dropped foreign travel curbs despite surging cases. Despite its hospitals and morgues being overwhelmed — and international concern over the low official figures on infections and deaths there — China insisted Friday that it had been transparent in sharing its Covid-19 data. THREAT TO ELDERLY Medical workers help a 101-year-old Covid-19 patient surnamed Li as she leaves the Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital in Guangzhou, south China’s Guangdong Province, on Nov. 26, 2022. XINHUA PHOTO On Wednesday, a senior US health official said Beijing had provided only limited data to global databases about variants circulating in China, and its testing and reporting on new cases had diminished. On Thursday, the [...]
Sara to Filipinos: Aim higher in 2023
Vice President Sara Duterte. PHOTO BY JOHN RYAN BALDEMOR Vice President Sara Duterte called on Filipinos to march on and aim for a better life in 2023. "With our deep faith in the Almighty and humble determination to aim higher, let us look forward to a more prosperous 2023 filled with dynamic opportunities for inclusive and lasting growth where no one is left behind," the Vice President said in her New Year's message. Duterte said 2023 marks a new and promising season of growth for every Filipino across diverse sectors and segments of society. "Let us unwaveringly embody our collective resolve and fortitude to begin anew amid the difficulties this past year may have brought our social, economic, and civic pursuits," she said. Duterte added that the country's [...]
PH must be wary of Covid-19 surge in China: solon
MANILA – Now that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said he is open to imposing additional restrictions on travelers from China following a new surge of severe Covid-19 cases, a senator said the situation must be treated seriously. PRECAUTION. A medical worker takes a swab sample from a child for nucleic acid test in Liangjiang New District, Chongqing, China on Aug. 24, 2022. China will cancel nucleic acid tests for international arrivals starting Jan. 8, 2023 whle those with with an abnormal health status declaration or fever symptoms will receive an antigen test. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) Business as usual is not an option, according to Senator Risa Hontiveros on Friday. In a statement, she suggested that the Inter-Agency Task Force study and review restrictions now that there is an [...]
Oil prices seen to jump in first week of 2023
Metro Manila, Philippines— The first week of 2023 will likely be met with another round of fuel price hikes. According to a Unioil forecast on Saturday, diesel will increase by ₱2.30 to ₱2.50 per liter while gasoline will go up around ₱2.50 to ₱2.70 per liter in the week of Jan. 3 to Jan. 9. Pump prices also increased in the past Christmas week. The Department of Energy's latest oil price monitor as of Dec. 28 reported a net year-to-date increase of P14.90/liter for gasoline, P27.30/liter for diesel, and P21.30/liter for kerosene. This story will be updated.
Trump tax returns show China bank account as six years of records released
Returns date from 2015 to 2020 and span nearly 6,000 pages as former president rails against effort by ‘radical left Democrats’ Donald and Melania Trump arrive for a speech at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida.Photograph: Andrew Harnik/AP Six years of Donald Trump’s tax returns were made public by a congressional committee on Friday, ending the former president’s long-running effort to break precedent and keep them secret. The documents, dating from 2015 to 2020, offer insights into the complex finances and foreign bank accounts of a man who was accused of abusing the presidency for personal profit and who has already announced another bid for the White House. A House of Representatives report released earlier this month analyzed the documents and showed Trump and his wife Melania paid no federal [...]
Close watch on Chinese arrivals
Quaratine protocols intensify amid dramatic surge of COVID in China Health officials on Friday said they would intensify quarantine protocols in handling travelers from China as COVID-19 cases there continue to surge. In a statement, the Department of Health (DOH) said it has ordered the Bureau of Quarantine to heighten surveillance of all respiratory symptoms in travelers coming from China. Infected and symptomatic passengers should be reported during arrival, it said. The DOH issued the statement after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. suggested requiring travelers from China to be tested for COVID-19. The DOH said the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) was discussing last night the guidelines on border control for travelers from China. “The IATF will discuss on the guidelines on how to [...]
PH eyes to boost trade with China
Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual. PHOTO BY JOHN RYAN BALDE The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) aims to enhance the country's bilateral trade with China. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s state visit to China early next year is a recognition that it is an important trading and investment partner of the Philippines, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said in a statement. Despite soaring Covid-19 cases in China, the President will still push through with his state visit to Beijing next week, from January 3 to 5. The state visit is upon the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. "The visit will pave the way for further strengthening of our trade and investment relations, particularly as we work to recover from the pandemic and position the Philippines as a regional hub [...]
SWS: 95% of Filipinos entering 2023 with hope
Metro Manila, Philippines— With 2023 just around the corner, a large majority of Filipinos, or 95%, are entering the new year "with hope rather than fear," according to a poll released by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) on Friday. "This is two points above the 93% recorded in 2021 and similar to the pre-COVID 96% in 2019," said SWS. Only 5% of respondents dread the incoming year - down two points from the 7% logged in 2020 and 2021. The poll also showed 74% of Filipinos said they will change for the better next year, while 20% said they will stay the same. The remaining 6% had no answer. The survey was conducted from Dec. 10 to 14 among 1,200 adults - 300 each from Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, the [...]
NAIA privatization to push through
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). File Photo The government will push through with the privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has announced. "We have worked with the Asian Development Bank for the preparation of the terms of reference for the privatization of the Manila International Airport," Bautista said during a briefing Wednesday. He said he hopes the terms of reference (TOR) will be ready by the first quarter of 2023 "so we can entertain proposals from interested parties." Included in the TOR is the rehabilitation of NAIA, which Bautista acknowledges is overdue. One of the improvements is to allow public utility vehicles to service passengers, especially in Terminal 3, which caters to domestic flights. Bautista said there are areas that can be redeveloped, [...]
Inflation in Dec. may go up as high as 8.6%—BSP
PHILIPPINES— Inflation in December 2022 likely accelerated to a high of 8.6 percent from 8 percent a month ago due to higher food prices and power rates, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Thursday. In a statement, BSP projected this month’s inflation rate to settle within a range of 7.8 to 8.6 percent. “Upward price pressures for the month are expected to emanate from higher electricity rates, an uptick in the prices of agricultural commodities, elevated meat and fish products, and higher LPG prices. Meanwhile, the reduction in petroleum and rice prices as well as the peso appreciation could contribute to easing price pressures for the month,” it said. The BSP said it is closely monitoring the emerging price developments to enable timely intervention that could help prevent [...]
Protection for Kalayaan Group’s seas pushed
Kalayaan Island Group The passage of a measure in the House of Representatives that seeks to declare the waters around the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) and Scarborough Shoal as a marine protected area will be a boon for Filipino fishermen in the area. The benefits from the enactment of House Bill (HB) 6373 were explained by Palawan Third District Rep. Edward Hagedorn in an interview with The Manila Times. Hagedorn said there will be more fish as long as spawning and breeding sites, which are located within three nautical miles of the Kalayaan and Scarborough Shoal, are safeguarded. "Former Justice Antonio Carpio's experience in marine science enabled him to assist me in conceptualizing the bill," he said. Hagedorn said he shares Carpio's advocacy "to maintain and preserve Philippine territorial [...]
Over 10 bilateral agreements eyed between PH, China during Marcos’ state visit – DFA
Metro Manila, Philippines– Over 10 bilateral agreements are expected to be signed during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s state visit to China on Jan. 3-5, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) bared during a Malacañang media briefing Thursday. “During the state visit, about 10 to 14 bilateral agreements are expected to be signed in the areas of trade and investment, agriculture, renewable energy, infrastructure, development cooperation, people-to-people ties, and maritime security cooperation,” DFA Assistant Secretary for Asian and Pacific Affairs Neal Imperial said, adding that fostering economic cooperation is one of the primary goals of the trip. Marcos is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Keqiang, and Li Zhanshu, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China. The DFA gave a rundown [...]
Bongbong Marcos vows to expand internet services to remote areas
President Ferdinand “Bongbong Marcos, Jr. | PHOTO: official facebook page of the Office of the President President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has reiterated his administration’s commitment to put up the Broadband ng Masa (BBM) and Free Wi-Fi for All Programs in far-flung areas for the country’s progress in terms of technological advancements.The President was the surprise guest at the online “kamustahan” (meet-and-greet) for BBM program recipients that the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) hosted on Christmas Eve. In the excerpts of the Zoom videoconference that the Palace released on Monday and Tuesday, Mr. Marcos said he decided to be a “gate-crasher” at the event to see for himself how the DICT was implementing the BBM program.“Our new connection is good, many places already have internet and [...]
LPA to bring rain showers over Palawan, Visayas, 4 other regions
A low pressure area (LPA) located east of Surigao del Sur will bring rain showers over Palawan, Visayas, and four other areas on Wednesday, PAGASA said in its weather forecast. At 3 a.m., the LPA was estimated to be located at 475 km east of the municipality of Hinatuan. "'Yung low pressure area ay medyo malapit na po sa Mindanao. Kasalukuyang nasa dagat pa ito. Bumaba ang tsansa na maging bagyo ito pero hindi natin inaalis ang posibilidad na maging bagyo ito dahil nasa dagat pa ito," PAGASA weather specialist Aldczar Aurelio said in an interview on GMA Integrated News' Unang Balita. (The low pressure area is near Mindanao. Currently it is still at sea. Its chance of becoming a tropical depression is low but we are not ruling out [...]
Marcos names Usec. Punay as DSWD officer-in-charge
Malacañang confirms the appointment of DSWD Undersecretary Eduardo Punay as officer-in-charge of the agency, adding an announcement will soon be made regarding Secretary Erwin Tulfo, who was twice bypassed by the Commission on Appointments. (Photo from Edu Punay Facebook page) Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Undersecretary Eduardo Punay as officer-in-charge (OIC) of the agency, Malacañang confirmed on Tuesday. Office of the Press Secretary OIC Cheloy Garafil confirmed the development, which came several days after DSWD Secretary Erwin Tulfo’s designation was bypassed for the second time by the Commission on Appointments (CA). The CA deferred Tulfo's appointment due to his four libel convictions as a columnist and questions over his citizenship after he served in the United States [...]
Medical company researching whether single vaccine can prevent both Covid-19 and flu
Getty Picture Alliance NEW ZEALAND—A Wellington medical company is researching a combined flu and Covid-19 vaccine. P3 Research is looking for people aged between 50 and 80 years old to take part in the clinical trial, which is investigating whether a single vaccine can effectively prevent both illnesses. The company conducts research on behalf of a range of pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer and AstraZeneca - two major Covid-19 vaccine manufacturers. Covid-19 and influenza were among the more common viruses leading to severe illness and hospitalisation in older adults, P3 Research said, and currently individual vaccinations provided the best protection against each disease. As well as the age requirement, it was looking for participants who were in good health, and were fully vaccinated against Covid-19 (with or without the [...]
Putin bans Russian oil exports to countries that impose price cap
President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday delivered Russia’s long-awaited response to a Western price cap, signing a decree that bans the supply of crude oil and oil products from Feb. 1 for five months to nations that impose the cap. The Group of Seven major powers, the European Union and Australia agreed this month to a $60-per-barrel price cap on Russian seaborne crude oil effective from Dec. 5 over Moscow’s “special military operation” in Ukraine. The decree, published on a government portal and the Kremlin website, was presented as a direct response to “actions that are unfriendly and contradictory to international law by the United States and foreign states and international organizations joining them.” “Deliveries of Russian oil and oil products to foreign entities and individuals are banned, on the [...]
Taiwan to extend military conscription to one year, citing threat from China
Beijing has been ramping up pressure on the island it claims as its own, prompting Taiwan officials to increase compulsory service from four months starting in 2024. TAIPEI, Taiwan — Taiwan will extend compulsory military service to one year from four months starting in 2024 due to the rising threat the democratically governed island faces from its giant neighbor China, President Tsai Ing-wen said on Tuesday. The move, which had been well-flagged ahead of time, comes as China ramps up military, diplomatic and economic pressure on Taiwan to assert its sovereignty claims, including almost daily Chinese air force missions near the island over the past three years. Tsai, speaking after a national security council meeting of senior security officials, said Taiwan wanted peace but needed to be able [...]
Retail price of onions soars to P520 per kilo
An official of the Department of Agriculture (DA) on Tuesday said that the retail price of red onions reached P520 per kilo amid tight supply. During the Laging Handa briefing, Agriculture deputy spokesman Rex Estoperes reiterated that the DA has no plan to import as the harvest is expected to start in January 2023. "This morning, we went to the markets. The retail price of small [red] onions is P480 [per kilo], very small in size while those that are bigger cost P520 [per kilo]. When I asked the vendor if consumers still buy despite the price. She said there are some who still buy despite the high cost," Estoperez said. Farmers in Tarlac have started to harvest, but the farm gate price of red onions remains high at [...]
Covid in China: People rush to book travel as borders finally reopen
EPA-EFE/REX/SHUTTERSTOCK Chinese people have rushed to book overseas travel after Beijing announced it would reopen its borders next month. Passport applications for Chinese citizens wishing to travel internationally will resume from 8 January, the immigration administration said. It follows an announcement on Monday that ended almost three years of strict quarantine rules for arrivals. Travel sites have since reported a spike in traffic. But Chinese tourists will not have unfettered access to all countries. Japan - one of the most popular destinations for Chinese travellers - has announced that all travellers from China must show a negative Covid test on arrival, or quarantine for seven days, because of the surge in cases there. India has also said travellers from China (as well as some other countries) must show a [...]
Most parts of PH to still experience rains due to shear line, northeast monsoon
Weather satellite image from Pagasa’s website MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Rain will continue to pour over most parts of the Philippines on Monday due to the shear line and the northeast monsoon, locally known as amihan. According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), the shear line is the convergence of cold and warm winds. “Nakakaranas po ng maulan na panahon sa malaking bahagi ng Kabisayaan, sa ilang lalawigan ng Mindanao at kasama na rin ang lalawigan ng Palawan. ‘Yan po ay dulot ng shear line,” Pagasa weather specialist Aldczar Aurelio said during the public weather forecast. (A huge part of Visayas, some provinces in Mindanao, and Palawan are experiencing rainy weather. That’s due to the shear line.) “Nakakaranas po ng malamig na simoy ng hangin na [...]
P8.6-B assistance up for informal sector workers
PHILIPPINES— The Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) has distributed more than P8-billion worth of emergency employment and cash assistance that benefited almost 2 million informal sector workers who were badly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as calamities that hit the country. In DoLE's year-end report, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said the aid was released under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (Tupad), a community-based aid that provides emergency employment to displaced, underemployed and seasonal workers. Tupad funded the emergency employment provided to 1.971 million informal sector workers whose source of income were wiped out due to the effects of the pandemic. The Tupad program provides workers in the informal sector a 10-day emergency employment, but not exceeding 30-day depending on the work to be performed, [...]
PAL to resume regular flights to China in Jan 2023
Philippine Airlines (PAL) is set to resume regular flights to mainland China next month after suspending the route for nearly three years due to pandemic-induced border restrictions. In a recent statement, the flag carrier said passengers could book Manila-Xiamen flights starting Jan. 13, 2023. The Lucio Tan-led airline will open the route with one flight per week operating every Friday. But frequencies are expected to increase over time with further easing of mobility restrictions. “The reopening of our Manila-Xiamen service is a happy development as we welcome the new year, and a good start for the restoration of our flights to and from the Chinese mainland. [PAL] is continuously working toward flying back to more cities in China, with our goal of operating the largest network of flights between [...]
US blizzard kills 18, leaves hundreds of thousands without power
At least 18 die from exposure and car crashes as fierce storm brings rain and snow across much of the US. A fierce winter storm has knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses across the United States and left at least 18 people dead due to exposure and car crashes on icy roads. The “bomb cyclone” storm, one of the most powerful in decades, also forced the cancellation of more than 3,000 US flights on Saturday, stranding thousands of travellers who were making last-minute dashes for Christmas. (Al Jazeera) The storm, now in its third straight day, was nearly unprecedented in its scope, stretching from the Great Lakes near Canada to the Rio Grande along the border with Mexico. The plummeting temperatures brought the coldest [...]
Floods displace thousands in E. Samar, N. Mindanao on Christmas Eve
Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines —Thousands of families in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental were forced to seek refuge in evacuation centers because of floods on Christmas Eve. Gingoog City Administrator Enrique Guevarra said in a phone interview that incessant rains on Dec. 24 caused floods which submerged 16 out of 79 barangays in waters up to four feet high, prompting local authorities to evacuate residents. The local government said 6,615 families or more than 33 thousand individuals were affected by the floods. Guevarra said they did not expect the intensity of the rains. Intermittent rains are still being experienced as of Sunday. Gingoog City has requested assistance from the Regional Office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Cagayan de Oro City for those affected by the floods. [...]
Philippines eyes $40 billion worth of assistance, loans in 2023
The Philippine government on Sunday unveiled plans to secure nearly $40-billion worth of assistance and loans from development partners and bilateral lenders next year, with the running debt stock at a fresh record high as of end-October. According to the Office of the Press Secretary (OPS), the government is set to secure $19.1-billion worth of official development assistance (ODA) in 2023, following the $85.5-million worth of grants and technical assistance implemented this year. The administration also eyes $9.2-billion worth of loans from multilateral development partners, and $9.8 billion in loans from bilateral lenders in the coming year. Latest data available from the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) shows that the outstanding debt stock stood at P13.64 trillion as of end-October, up by 0.92% or P123.92 billion from the end-September [...]
Lower income tax rates to take effect in 2023
Metro Manila, Philippines — People who earn purely through compensation may anticipate higher take-home pay next year, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) announced on Friday. Those earning up to ₱250,000 are still exempt from paying personal income tax, while those earning from ₱251,000 to ₱8,000,000 will have lower tax rates ranging from 15% to 30% by 2023. "With the said reduction in the annual income tax rates, individuals earning purely compensation Income will have lower withholding tax deductions from their monthly salary, thereby increasing their take-home pay," said BIR chief Romeo D. Lumagui, Jr. However, those earning over ₱8,000,000 will have a 35% increase of tax rate from the previous 32%. Under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, the tax rate adjustment will take effect on [...]
China stages ‘strike drills’ around Taiwan, citing provocation
China has conducted unprecedented military drills around Taiwan following US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island. (File photo: AFP/Hector Retamal) BEIJING— China's military said it had conducted "strike drills" in the sea and airspace around Taiwan on Sunday (Dec 25) in response to unspecified "provocation" from the democratically-governed island and the United States. Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, has complained of repeated Chinese military activity nearby over the past three years or so as Beijing seeks to pressure Taipei to accept Chinese sovereignty. China staged war games around Taiwan in August following a visit to Taipei by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and on Saturday it condemned the United States for a new defence authorisation law that boosts military assistance for Taiwan. In [...]
Zhejiang province in China has 1 million daily COVID-19 cases, expected to double
People register to collect medicine donated by merchants and residents for free at a public service center in Tonglu, in China's eastern Zhejiang province on Dec 23, 2022. AFP/STR BEIJING— China's Zhejiang, a big industrial province near Shanghai, is battling around a million new daily COVID-19 infections, a number expected to double in the days ahead, the provincial government said on Sunday (Dec 25). Despite a record surge of cases nationwide, China reported no COVID-19 deaths on the mainland for the five days through Saturday, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention said on Sunday. Citizens and experts have called for more accurate data as infections surgedafter Beijing made sweeping changes to a zero-COVID policy that had put hundreds of millions of its citizens under relentless lockdowns [...]
Marcos’ 5 foreign trips yield $23.6B in investment pledges
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s state visits have generated $23.6 billion in investment pledges, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reported on Friday. The pledges were made during his visits to Indonesia, Singapore, United States, Cambodia, and Thailand this year. According to DTI’s year-end report, the numbers show that the administration is “aggressively” attracting more foreign businesses to come to the Philippines. The recent report excludes Marcos’ Belgium trip, where officials said he lured around ₱9.8 billion worth of investment pledges. Marcos is set to visit China in early January 2023. During his press briefings, the President has been vocal in his call to continue oil and gas exploration in West Philippine Sea (WPS) amid the territorial dispute with China. In 2016, an international arbitral [...]
Kiwi fugitive pornographer on FBI’s most wanted list arrested in Spain
The FBI is offering more than $15,000 for information that will lead to the location and arrest of a fugitive New Zealand man accused of sex trafficking and producing child pornography. Photo: FBI Spanish police have arrested a child pornographer who is one of the FBI's 10 most wanted fugitives. New Zealander Michael James Pratt, 40, had been sentenced to life in prison for child pornography, sexual exploitation and sexual assault in the United States. It is understood he was staying at a hotel in Madrid under a false identity. Police said he was involved in the audiovisual production of pornography, recruiting underage girls and young women through deception between 2012 and 2019. He earned more than $17 million with those activities. Only 57 criminals on the FBI's [...]
Power rate hike looms as Malampaya shuts down in Feb 2023
Metro Manila, Philippines — Coupled with the continuous rise in commodity prices, Filipino consumers might have to brace for potential electricity rate increases by early next year as the Malampaya gas production facility will undergo a 15-day maintenance shutdown in February. In a briefing on Friday, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said the Malampaya facility has a scheduled downtime for maintenance works on Feb. 4 to 18, 2023. The Malampaya field, which supplies 40% of Luzon's power needs, is located off the coast of Palawan and is near the West Philippine Sea, an area believed to be rich in oil deposits. "During this period, the supply temporarily stops and power plants needs to switch to alternative sources of fuel," Lotilla said. While shifting to alternative fuels may trigger higher costs, [...]
Go pledges continued support for cancer patients
Sen. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go SEN. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go, chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, reiterated his commitment to support more cancer patients as he continues to push for government programs and measures to help ease their burden as they overcome their medical condition. On Tuesday, December 20, Go and former president Rodrigo Duterte visited Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao City where they personally provided assistance to cancer patients getting treatment at SPMC's Children's Cancer Institute and House of Hope. "To the patients, do not lose hope. There's the Lord, and He loves us. It is important that you get well. My wish for all is a merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year ahead of us. I hope that we [...]
DA improves ties with Japan for agri value chain
IMPROVING VALUE CHAIN. Agriculture Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban (left) signs discussion amendment for the Market Driven Enhancement of the Vegetable Value Chain in the Philippines (MVC2), withJapan International Cooperation Agency Chief Representative to the Philippines Sakamoto Takema on Friday (Dec. 23, 2022). The leaders hoped the move would help improve the country's agricultural value chain, beneficial for farmers and consumers. (Photo courtesy: Department of Agriculture) MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) signed Friday the Minutes of the Meeting to Amend the Records of Discussion for the technical cooperation project with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Both parties signed the modified project, particularly for the Market Driven Enhancement of the Vegetable Value Chain in the Philippines (MVC2), which was started earlier in 2022. During the meeting, DA Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban said [...]
PBBM OKs grant of gratuity pay to COS, JO gov’t workers
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the grant of gratuity pay for contract of service (COS) and job order (JO) workers in government for fiscal year 2022. Marcos on Friday inked Administrative Order (AO) 3, authorizing the release of a one-time gratuity pay not exceeding PHP5,000 for all government personnel working under COS and JO schemes. AO 3 covers all workers whose services are directly engaged through COS and JO by national government agencies (NGAs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) and local water districts. Based on the latest order, COS and JO workers who have rendered a total or an aggregate of at least four months of actual satisfactory performance of service, as stipulated in their respective contracts, as of Dec. [...]
LPA, ‘amihan’ may continue to bring rains over parts of PH
The low pressure area (LPA) and northeast monsoon or “amihan” may continue to bring rains over some parts of the country, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said in its 4 p.m. forecast on Wednesday, Dec. 21. Cloudy skies with rains brought by amihan are expected in Cagayan Valley and Apayao while Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with light rains. The state weather bureau warned of possible flash floods or landslides in low-lying areas caused by moderate to at times heavy rains. Meanwhile, cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms are expected to prevail in eastern Visayas and Caraga due to the LPA. The rest of the country may expect partly cloudy to cloudy skies with [...]
PBBM orders importation of over 64 MT of refined sugar amid high inflation
President Marcos has ordered the importation of more than 64 metric tons of refined sugar in a bid to stabilize the price of sugar in the country. In a memorandum order dated Dec. 20, Department of Agriculture Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban ordered the convening of the department’s Minimum Access Volume Advisory Council to expedite the importation of 64,050 metric tons of refined sugar. The memorandum was issued to Jocelyn A. Salvador, executive director of the Minimum Access Volume (MAV) Secretariat. The memorandum cited the Latest Summary Inflation Report Consumer Price Index for November this year that was released early this month as the basis for the importation. “Based on the latest Summary Inflation Report Consumer Price Index (2018=100): November 22 released on Dec. 6, 2022, the annual increment for [...]
Japan’s dairy farming industry struggling amid rising costs and production cuts
A dairy facility in Kamishihoro, Hokkaido. A growing number of dairy farmers are quitting the business as they struggle to deal with higher feed prices and milk production cuts. | KYODO Japanese dairy farmers are in an increasingly tough situation, hit hard by rising production costs blamed partly on higher prices of formula feed for milk cows since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Also battered by production cuts for raw milk after past oversupply, a growing number of dairy farmers are quitting the business. An industry organization in Hokkaido, one of the biggest production areas for dairy goods in Japan, has decided to cut production for 2023, stoking concerns over impacts on local dairy farmers. According to data from the agriculture ministry, the number of dairy producers across the nation [...]
Marcos vetoes 3 budget items
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Photo from Office of the Press Secretary President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. vetoed three provisions in the P5.268-trillion 2023 national budget, Malacañang said on Wednesday. One of the vetoed provisions is the use by the Department of Education of the revolving fund of DepEd TV. DepEd TV served as the agency's platform for multimedia classes at the height of the coronavirus pandemic when learning shifted strictly online. It also aired quick tips, updating students on Covid-19 safety protocols. Marcos said there is no law authorizing the agency to establish a revolving fund for the said purpose. "DepEd TV is not a business-type activity of the DepEd, which may be considered within the contemplation of the General Provision on Revolving Funds in the FY (Fiscal [...]
US to provide Patriot missile system to Ukraine
A Patriot air defence system fires a missile during an exercise in Taiwan in 2006. (Photo: AFP/Sam Yeh) WASHINGTON— The United States said on Wednesday (Dec 21) it would provide Ukraine with the advanced Patriot air defence system to help counter Moscow's relentless aerial attacks. The system is part of US$1.85 billion in assistance unveiled in parallel with a visit to Washington by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, his first trip outside the country since Russia invaded in February. The announcement is a significant victory for Kyiv, which had repeatedly pushed Washington for the Patriot system, and a strong sign of US support for Ukraine. "Today's assistance for the first time includes the Patriot Air Defence System, capable of bringing down cruise missiles, short-range ballistic missiles, and aircraft at [...]
Breast cancer breakthrough: NZ-led research finds way to reduce risk without surgery
In New Zealand, around one in every 250 women inherits one of the mutations looked at in the study. Photo: 123RF A global study led by the University of Otago has discovered a gene that, when modified, could reduce the risk of breast cancer. Finding the new gene also opens the door to developing a drug that reduces the risk of cancer. The research involved 26,000 women known to have the BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 mutations of the breast cancer genes, the largest study of its kind. "The discovery came after looking at thousands of women around the world," said associate professor Logan Walker, who led the study. "It allowed us to look at genetic changes; these genetic changes pointed us in a direction where we could see that [...]
Ukraine’s Zelenskyy plans US visit; first trip abroad since war began
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hands out awards during his visit in the eastern frontline city of Bakhmut - he is now expected to head to the United States. (Photo: AFP/UKRAINIAN PRESIDENTIAL PRESS SERVICE/Handout) WASHINGTON— Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to visit Washington on Wednesday (Dec 21) for a possible meeting with Joe Biden and an address to Congress, United States media reported - his first trip abroad since Russia invaded in February. The potential White House meeting could feature an expected announcement from Biden of a new arms package for Kyiv including Patriot missiles, according to the reports. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi meanwhile told members of Congress in a letter on Tuesday that they should be in attendance the following night. "Please be present for a very special [...]
BSP chief: Strong dollar period is over
Metro Manila, Philippines— As the peso continued to come off its record lows to stay within the ₱55-per-dollar range, a weak local currency stoking inflation has become less of a headache for Philippine monetary authorities, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Felipe Medalla said on Tuesday. Five days before Christmas, the peso extended its rally to close Tuesday's trading at ₱55.24 per dollar, its best finish in four-and-a-half months or since Aug. 5, according to data from the spot currency market. That's a far cry from the record low ₱59-per-dollar it hit last October. "The worst is over for the strong dollar," Medalla told reporters in a briefing held on Tuesday. Higher US interest rates to combat inflation have propelled the dollar in recent months as investors sought safe haven [...]
Corn complex to rise in Region 2
CITY OF ILAGAN, PHILIPPINES— The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 2 (DA-RFO2) and the city government here had agreed to establish an I-Corn Complex worth P196.7 million. The agreement was reached after a consultation meeting led by DA Region 2 Executive Director Narciso Edillo, Regional Technical Director for Operations and Extension Roberto Busania, Corn Program Regional Coordinator Paul Vincent Balao and Ilagan City Agriculturist Moises Alamo. Edillo said the DA will provide P107 million while the city government of Ilagan will provide P89.7 million for the said complex. It will serve as a one-stop agri-commercial center. "The I-Corn Complex will serve corn farmers not only those from the City of Ilagan but also Isabela and the Cagayan Valley," he said, adding that this will solve problems in corn production, [...]
Chinese embassy hits US for ‘driving a wedge’ between China, PH
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Chinese Embassy in Manila on Tuesday accused the United States of trying to "stir up troubles and drive a wedge" between China and the Philippines. "The US keeps meddling in the South China Sea disputes and trying to drive wedges between countries in the region, creating tensions and harming regional peace and stability," the embassy said. The remark came after the US State Department issued a statement calling on China to "respect the international law of the sea in the South China Sea, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and its legal obligations pursuant to the 2016 arbitral ruling." The Chinese Embassy condemned the US statement, claiming that the South China Sea situation has remained stable due to [...]
All Nation Seminary celebrates its 28th Ministers Fire Summit
General Bishop Herbert R. Gadian, of Jesus For All Nations proudly announced the successful celebration of the 28th Ministers Fire Summit held at the De Luxe Hotel last December 5, 2022 in Cagayan de Oro City. The highlights of the celebration is the recognition and awarding of Degree by All Nations Seminary , an education department of the Jesus For All Nations & Network International which operates very differently from any traditional seminaries. Dr. Herbert R. Gadian,DD General Bishop of Jesus For All Nations Network, Intl said that the professors and teachers of the seminary are those pastors and teachers in their respective churches. While the students are the members who are willing to know more of the ministry of Jesus Christ , people who have the calling from [...]
Twitter’s suspension of journalists draws global backlash
Critics say the episode is evidence that Twitter’s new billionaire owner is eliminating speech and users that he personally dislikes. Twitter boss Elon Musk appeared briefly in a Twitter Spaces audio chat hosted by journalists, which quickly turned into a contentious discussion before being abruptly cut off [File: Dado Ruvic/Illustration/Reuters] Twitter’s unprecedented suspension of at least five journalists over claims they revealed the real-time location of owner Elon Musk has drawn swift backlash from government officials, advocacy groups and journalism organisations across the globe. Officials from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United Nations and the European Union condemned the suspensions, with some saying the platform was jeopardising press freedom. The episode, which one well-known security researcher labelled the “Thursday Night Massacre“, is being regarded by critics as new [...]
Marcos signs ₱5.268-T nat’l budget for 2023
Metro Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. signed on Friday the ₱5.268-trillion government budget for 2023, the first full one-year spending plan under his administration. Marcos approved the 2023 General Appropriations Bill during a ceremonial signing in Malacañang. This came less than two weeks after Congress ratified the proposed spending plan. The 2023 budget, which is 4.9% higher than this year's, seeks to support the current administration's goal of economic transformation, with the infrastructure and education sectors securing the largest shares. In his speech, Marcos attributed the swift passage of the proposed budget to the "full" support of the legislature. "We did it in record time, that's a significant achievement," he said. Marcos also said the legislature "has been very cooperative" as the Philippines implements structural changes, which he [...]
PH needs to import 3M MT of rice to address looming shortage
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/EDWIN BACASMAS The Philippines will have to import as much as 3.4 million metric tons (MT) of rice next year to meet the anticipated shortage of the staple. “We will need to import between 3 [million MT] [and] 3.4 million [MT] of rice next year to end up with a 90-day carryover stock by year end of 2023,” said the Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) in a report by its chair Leonardo Montemayor. Based on its projections, the ending stock is pegged at negative 427,000 MT by the end of the third quarter of 2023. “By year end, it will be a measly 321,000 tons, good for only nine days,” it said. “As early as July 2023, there will already be upward pressure on prices, because the [...]
P31.5M meat products from China seized
Photo from Bureau of Customs The Department of Agriculture (DA) said at least P31.5 million smuggled frozen meat products from China were confiscated at the Manila International Container Port (MICP). Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Inspectorate and Enforcement James Layug said that his office received information on Dec. 13, 2022, on the suspicious shipment at the MICP. Layug said based on the inspection of the members of the DA and the Bureau of Customs, the three forty-footer container vans contained banned frozen pork and chicken products but were declared as frozen prawn balls. The products were registered under the name of Victory JM Enterprise. "This may be considered as technical smuggling under the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016 (Republic Act 10845)," Layug said. The products were registered under the name [...]
New Zealand paying premium for big-ticket projects
Transmission Gully. (Source: 1News) Budget blowouts and lengthy delays have become part and parcel of just about any large-scale project in Aotearoa, and a new report out today confirmed the country's approach to big builds is inefficient and expensive. The research by the Infrastructure Commission Te Waihanga compared how New Zealand's infrastructure costs stacked up against other high-income countries. It showed the cost to build railway stations, power lines, wind farms and hospitals were on par. But while this country's construction workers were paid less, big-ticket items like motorways, tunnels and underground rail came at a premium. The commission's director of economics, Peter Nunns, said that was partly because equipment, land and construction materials were pricier here. But he said it was made worse with poor planning. "We [...]
Malaysia campsite landslide kills at least 21, including children
At least 21 people were killed in the landslide in Selangor state, Malaysia as they slept in their tents at an unlicensed campsite. Photo: AFP A landslide killed at least 21 people, including children, while they slept in their tents at an unlicensed campsite in Malaysia on Friday, officials say. Search teams are continuing to scour thick mud and downed trees for survivors. The landslide in Selangor state bordering the capital, Kuala Lumpur, occurred before 3am local time, tearing down a hillside into an organic farm that officials said was operating the campsite illegally. Among the victims were five children and 12 women, according to the fire and rescue department. The disaster struck about 50km north of Kuala Lumpur in Batang Kali, just outside the popular hilltop area [...]
36K learners, teachers to receive school supplies: DepEd
PARTNERSHIP FOR RECOVERY. Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte lauds the move of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Foundation on Friday (Dec. 16, 2022), as it turned over school supplies and printing resources to the Department of Education. Duterte noted that the BPI's partnership with the DepEd helps the sector to push for the learning recovery. (Screengrab) MANILA – Around 35,000 learners and more than a thousand teachers are expected to benefit from the school supplies donation of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Foundation, according to the Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday. In a video message, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte lauded the BPI Foundation’s initiative [...]
Marcos OKs national development plan for 2023-2028
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday approved the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028 which aims to bolster deep economic and social transformation in order to reinvigorate job creation and accelerate poverty reduction. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) (Courtesy of OPS) "I'm happy to announce that today, at the NEDA (National Economic and Development Authority) board meeting, we approved the Philippine Development Plan for 2023 to 2028 and this sets out the framework of the development plan for the Philippines and we have included all of the priority areas," President Marcos said in his message. Marcos called on government agencies to employ a whole-of-nation approach in the implementation of the PDP 2023-2028 and steer toward the "same direction." "This will facilitate the [...]
Marcos asks EU to help PH, other countries vulnerable to climate change
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. on Tuesday asked European Union (EU) leaders and businessmen to help vulnerable countries like the Philippines cope with the effects of climate change. Marcos stressed that the Philippines is "regarded as probably one of the most, if not the most, vulnerable countries in the world to the effects of climate change.” "Since that seems to be the case and that is what we are facing in the Philippines, we are very much in need of the assistance of Europe, of all the first world countries, and to be able to adjust our economy, our communities to the onset of the effects of climate change," he said during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-European Union (ASEAN-EU) working luncheon in Belgium. The chief executive [...]
‘Last chance’: Marcos orders new body on seafarer issues
PINOY CHEERS IN BRUSSELS | President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., joined on stage by some Cabinet members, Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Speaker Martin Romualdez, and first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, addresses members of the Filipino community at the Events Lounge in Brussels on Monday. The president is in the Belgian capital for the Asean-European Union Commemorative Summit. (RTVM Screen GRAB) BRUSSELS — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday ordered the creation of an advisory council not only to avert possible job losses of some 50,000 Filipino seafarers in European Union (EU) vessels due to the Philippines’ deficiencies in local training and education but also to address other concerns of about 600,000 Filipino seafarers worldwide. The president issued the directive during his meeting with international maritime employers and various shipowners here. [...]
Biden signs into law same-sex marriage bill, 10 years after his famous Sunday show answer on the issue
US President Joe Biden signed into law Tuesday landmark new federal protections for same-sex and interracial couples, capping both a personal and national evolution on an issue that's enjoyed growing acceptance over the past decade. Biden signed the Respect for Marriage Act before thousands of invited guests on the South Lawn at an event the White House said reflected the importance of the moment. "Marriage is a simple proposition. Who do you love? And will you be loyal to that person you love?" the president asked from the South Lawn. "It's not more complicated than that." Biden said the law he was about to sign recognizes that "everyone should have the right to answer those questions for themselves without the government interference," and secures the federal "protections that come [...]
China faces ‘tough’ zero-COVID exit, says WHO
A woman wearing a mask exits a subway station in Beijing, China on Dec 13, 2022. (Photo: AP/Andy Wong) GENEVA: China is facing a "very tough" time as it dismantles its rigid "zero-COVID" policy and allows people to live with the virus, posing challenges preparing hospitals and ensuring people are sufficiently protected, the World Health Organization (WHO) said. Beijing abruptly dropped its zero-tolerance stance last week after protests against its COVID-19 lockdowns. The shift, welcomed by many inside the country, has also stoked concerns that infections could spike. Asked about the policy changes, WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris told a Geneva press briefing on Tuesday (Dec 13) that China faced a "very tough and difficult time". "It's always very difficult for any country coming out of a situation where [...]
Japan to join U.S. efforts to tighten chip exports to China
A technician checks on a stack of wafers at the Applied Materials facility in Santa Clara, California. | BLOOMBERG Japan and the Netherlands have agreed in principle to join the U.S. in tightening controls over the export of advanced chipmaking machinery to China, according to people familiar with the matter, a potentially debilitating blow to Beijing’s technology ambitions. The two countries are likely to announce in the coming weeks that they’ll adopt at least some of the sweeping measures the U.S. rolled out in October to restrict the sale of advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment, according to the people, who asked not to be named because they are not authorized to speak publicly on the matter. The Biden administration has said the measures are aimed at preventing Beijing’s military from [...]
U.S. makes nuclear fusion breakthrough in quest for clean energy
Washington— A U.S. national laboratory has achieved a major breakthrough in nuclear fusion technology by producing more energy than was used to derive it, the government said Tuesday, raising hopes for its potential as a clean power source. Fusion energy is produced when light atomic nuclei are merged to form a heavier nucleus. Fusion powers the sun, and scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California have sought for decades to induce fusion in a lab setting using lasers. Noting that it is the first time such a net energy gain has been achieved in a laboratory anywhere in the world, U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said, "(Fusion) ignition allows us to replicate for the first time certain conditions that are found only in the stars and the sun." [...]
New Zealand imposes lifetime ban on youth buying cigarettes
A man sits while smoking in the city of Auckland, New Zealand on Dec. 9, 2021. AP FILE PHOTO WELLINGTON: New Zealand on Tuesday passed into law a unique plan to phase out tobacco smoking by imposing a lifetime ban on young people buying cigarettes. The law states that tobacco can't ever be sold to anybody born on or after Jan. 1, 2009. It means the minimum age for buying cigarettes will keep going up and up. In theory, somebody trying to buy a pack of cigarettes 50 years from now would need an ID to show they were at least 63 years old. But health authorities hope smoking will fade away well before then. They have a stated goal of making New Zealand smoke-free by 2025. The new [...]
Harness skills, gain micro-credentials: TESDA
MANILA – An official of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Tuesday urged the public, especially the workers, to harness their skills and gain micro-credentials. "Our countrymen, especially the overseas Filipino workers, need to enhance the skills and knowledge that they gained. Through micro-credentialing, as well as partnership with various industries, we could expand the skills of the people," TESDA Deputy Director General Aniceto Bertiz III said at a public briefing. He noted that TESDA has been offering many courses, including ladderized program and three-year diploma courses on electrical engineering and agricultural technologies. "After finishing the three-year course, they could receive a minimum of 21 NCs (national certificates) and they are job ready. We are also coordinating with other countries. We recently had a talk with [...]
Financial illiteracy slows PH insurance growth
INSURANCE TALKS (Clockwise from upper left) The Manila Times editor Dafort Villaseran, Pru Life UK Chairman Imelda ‘Ida’ Tiongson, Allianz PNB Life Chief Marketing Officer Gino Riola, Times editor Conrad Cariño, and Insurance Commission Deputy Commissioner Ferdinand ‘Bong’ Florendo during the forum ‘Insurance Truth and Consequence’ held on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022. TMT SCREENGRAB Poor financial literacy among Filipinos has slowed the growth of the Philippine insurance industry, an official of the Insurance Commission (IC) said on Tuesday. During the The Manila Times forum "Insurance Truth and Consequence," IC Deputy Commissioner Ferdinand George "Bong" Florendo, citing a report on Sept. 9, 2022, which cited a World Bank report, said the Philippines lags behind its Southeast Asian neighbors in terms of financial literacy. The Philippines had a 25 percent rating, [...]
Expect rise in vegetable prices as Christmas approaches
HEALTHY OPTIONS. A consumer chooses from a vegetable stall inside the Sta. Monica Market in Novaliches, Quezon City in this undated photo. The Department of Agriculture said prices are expected to increase as Christmas approaches. (PNA photo by Oliver Marquez) MANILA – The prices of vegetables are expected to increase less than two weeks before Christmas, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA). In a Laging Handa public briefing on Tuesday, DA deputy spokesperson Rex Estoperez said they have received information that prices of some vegetables have gone up, which he said is a normal occurrence during the Holidays. “Mayroon kaming impormasyon na iyong atin pong mga gulay, galing doon sa northern area, nagtaasan din, lalung-lalo na sa panahog natin sa pansit. Pero base doon sa informationnatin, [...]
Canada to increase military presence in Indo-Pacific region including West Philippine Sea
In a virtual town hall hosted by Filipino Canadian Member of Parliament Rechie Valdez, Canadian officials gave members of the Filipino community a broad outline of the country’s new Indo-Pacific strategy. This aims to invest $2.3 billion over the next five years in what is seen as the world's next fastest growing region. Along with increased trade with the 40 Indo-Pacific countries, Canada also plans to beef up its military presence in the region and invest in cyber security. Minister of International Development, Harjit Sarjjan, spoke about 'Operation Projection'. "That's an operation for the military to have naval presence within the region consistently. And what this strategy does is actually even increase our presence. So [National Defence] Minister [Anita] Anand will be authorizing greater ships within the region," Sarjjan [...]
TD “Rosal” maintains strength as it moves over the Philippine Sea east of Aurora
Tropical Depression “Rosal” has continued to maintain its strength as it moved over the Philippine Sea east of Aurora. The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said so far, the center of the tropical depression was estimated 330 kilometers east of Casiguran. It is packing maximum sustained winds of up to 45 kph and a gustiness of up to 35 kph. It is moving north northeastward at 20 kph. According to PAGASA, light to moderate with at times heavy rains are expected over Mimaropa. In the next 24 hours, the surge of the northeast monsoon partly enhanced by the tropical depression may bring occasional gusts over Batanes and Babuyan Islands, and a strong breeze to near-gale strength over Ilocos Norte, the northern and eastern portions of Cagayan, eastern [...]
Baguio to launch project ECHO to help breast cancer patients and kin
BAGUIO CITY— Aimed at addressing breast cancer and improving the health care outcomes of its constituents, the city government will formally launch Project Extension for Community Health Outcomes (ECHO) on Wednesday, December 21, at City Hall spearheaded by the City Health Services Office (CHSO). CHSO deputy head Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes said the city will affirm its steadfast commitment to delivering quality, affordable and accessible medical, health and wellness care to its community members by collaborating with Roche Philippines Inc. and the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology. Project ECHO is a unique learning model founded by Dr. Sanjeev Arora at the University of New Mexico where participants engage in a virtual community with their peers where they share support, guidance and feedback. "As a result, our collective understanding of how [...]
Coco waste materials open livelihood opportunity
INNOVATIVE CRAFT. Jeeff De Asis (center), a coco craft maker holds his "hantic" or red ant coconut lampshade that won the Most Innovative Product during the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Antique's Panublion Heritage Fair in Iloilo City on Nov.20, 2022. Also in the photo are Acting Provincial Director Lynna Joy Cardinal and Trade and Industry Development Specialist Wilson Alian. (PNA photo courtesy of DTI Antique) SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique – A craft maker has found a living through making use of coco waste materials. Jeeff De Asis, a coco craft maker from Barangay Carit-an in the municipality of Patnongon shared on Friday how he began his journey of producing crafts out of coconut [...]
Agro-solar power farm to rise in General Santos
A 150-megawatt (MW) agrovoltaic solar power plant, touted as a "pioneering" renewable energy project in the country, will be built by a foreign-backed homegrown company in General Santos City.Yan Amante, president and chief executive officer of Embrace Nature Power 1 Corp. (ENPC-1), said they are preparing for the construction of a solar farm and power plant in a 120-hectare property spanning portions of Conel and Mabuhay villages.Amante said they are investing around $285 million or roughly P16 billion in the project, which is set to break ground in the third week of January."We will be employing 1,500 workers for the construction phase, which will be completed in 12 months," Amante said in her presentation to the city council last Tuesday.She added that ENPC-1, which is based in Purok Guadalupe [...]
PBBM opens Malacañang to supporters
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. gave his supporters an early Christmas gift on Saturday: A meeting at Malacañang Palace. THANK YOU. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. welcomes his supporters at Malacañang Palace in Manila on Saturday (Dec. 10, 2022). In a Facebook post, he thanked them for their continued trust and confidence in him. (Courtesy of BBM official Facebook) Marcos shared in his official Facebook page several photos taken during the meet and greet event. “Maagang regalo ang hatid sa atin ngayong Pasko nang ating makasama muli ang ilan sa ating mga taga-suporta ngayong araw (Meeting some of my supporters today is an early gift this Christmas),” he said. Marcos expressed gratitude for their continued trust and confidence in him. He hopes that with the help [...]
Inflation, wages among Filipinos’ top concerns
A shopper looks at canned goods inside a supermarket in Manila on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority inflation jumped from 7.7% to 8% in November 2022, the highest recorded since the 9.1% in November 2008. The PSA attributed the spike to the high prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages, which rose to 10% in November from 9.4% in October. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO CONTROLLING inflation, improving wages, and access to affordable food are the top three major concerns the government of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. must address, according to a survey by OCTA Research. In OCTA's non-commissioned survey conducted from October 23 to 27, 57 percent of respondents said the Marcos administration should focus on controlling the rise in prices of basic goods and [...]
Apple workers in Australia plan Christmas strike
A customer stands underneath an illuminated Apple logo as he looks out the window of the Apple store located in central Sydney, Australia,. REUTERS/David Gray/File photo SYDNEY – Hundreds of Apple workers in Australia are preparing to go on a strike ahead of Christmas to demand better working conditions and wages, union leaders and staff said, a move likely to hurt the iPhone maker’s sales and services in the country. The less than two-day strike by about 200 of Apple’s roughly 4,000 employees in Australia comes as the U.S. tech giant faces disruptions due to worker unrest in its main iPhone plant in China. Members of Australia’s Retail and Fast Food Workers Union (RAFFWU) are asking Apple Inc for fixed rosters, known hours of work, weekends of two consecutive [...]
Bill seeks 13th month pay for contractual workers
Workers at the construction site.PHOTO BY JOHN RYAN BALDEMOR A bill that seeks to grant 13th month pay to contractual and job order personnel in the government has been filed at the House of Representatives. "For the benefit of job order and contractual personnel working in the government amid the rising prices, approval of this measure is immediately sought," Las Piñas City Rep. Camille Villar said in filing House Bill 6541. The bill covers those who have "completed at least one contract (minimum of three months) with the government before July 1 of the current fiscal year, prior to the granting of the 13th-month pay." "The minimum amount of the 13th-month pay for contractual and job order personnel shall not be less than one-half of the monthly salary by [...]
PH remains hotspot for child sexual exploitation – UN rapporteur, DOJ chief
Metro Manila, Philippines— The country remains a “source and destination” for various forms of child abuse, especially sexual exploitation, a United Nations special rapporteur disclosed on Thursday. Mama Fatima Singhateh, UN Special Rapporteur on the Sale and Sexual Exploitation of Children, recognized the efforts by the Philippine government to address sexual abuse and exploitation on children. However, she noted that more should be done to protect the children in the country. “The Philippines has made noteworthy efforts to improve the policy, legal and institutional framework in view of protecting children against the many forms of sexual abuse and exploitation and sale of children,” said Singhateh during a presentation of her preliminary findings. “The Philippines remains a source and destination country for child trafficking, sale, sexual abuse, forced marriage, among [...]
China, Saudi Arabia cement ties with deals including Huawei
Chinese President Xi Jinping hails ‘new era’ in relationship with Gulf as he meets Saudi crown prince, king. Saudi King Salman meets Chinese President Xi Jinping in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on December 8, 2022 [Saudi Press Agency/Handout via REUTERS] Chinese President Xi Jinping and Saudi King Salman have signed a series of strategic deals, including one involving Chinese tech giant Huawei, as part of a visit expected to bolster political and economic ties. Xi’s three-day visit to the kingdom includes Arab and Gulf summits and is being closely watched by the United States as Washington’s relations with Riyadh are at a low point. On Thursday, Xi and King Salman signed a “comprehensive strategic partnership agreement” after he was escorted to Yamamah Palace by the Saudi Royal Guard, who were [...]
Iranian forces shooting at faces and genitals of female protesters, medics say
Exclusive: Men and women coming in with shotgun wounds to different parts of bodies, doctors say A protest in Tehran days after the death of Mahsa Amini. One medic said he treated a woman ‘deliberately’ shot in the genitals and thighs. Photograph: Social media/Rex/Shutterstock Iranian security forces are targeting women at anti-regime protests with shotgun fire to their faces, breasts and genitals, according to interviews with medics across the country. Doctors and nurses – treating demonstrators in secret to avoid arrest – said they first observed the practice after noticing that women often arrived with different wounds to men, who more commonly had shotgun pellets in their legs, buttocks and backs. While an internet blackout has hidden much of the bloody crackdown on protesters, photos provided by medics to [...]
PM Jacinda Ardern says China has become ‘more assertive’
Reflecting on her five years as New Zealand's leader, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said China has undoubtedly become more assertive in the region over that time but cautioned that building relationships with small Pacific nations shouldn't become a game of one-upmanship. PM Jacinda Ardern and China's President Xi Jinping at APEC. (Source: 1News) In a joint interview with The Associated Press and the Australian Associated Press, Ardern said China has changed in recent years under President Xi Jinping. "I think if I stand back and look at the region as a whole and some of the changes that we’ve seen within our region, you do see a more assertive China," Ardern said. "And look, there'll be a whole host of reasons for that. Their integration into the regional economy, [...]
US aims for ‘top line’ deal on aid to three Pacific island countries
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Micronesia's President David Panuelo, Palau President Surangel Whipps and Marshall Islands President David Kabua. Photo: AFP/Sarah Silbiger The United States hopes to reach agreement on "top line" numbers for assistance to three Pacific island countries by the year's end, a State Department official told Reuters, part of negotiations critical to shoring up US strategic interests in a region courted by China. The Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and Palau are sovereign nations that agreed Compacts of Free Association, or COFAs, in the 1980s, under which the United States retained responsibility for their defence and exclusive access to huge swaths of the Pacific. COFA provisions will expire in 2023 for the Marshall Islands and FSM, and in 2024 for Palau [...]
Bali hotels won’t ask for proof of marriage under new criminal code: Tourism chief
Premarital sex and cohabitation will become criminal offences in three years' time. Tourists enjoy Bali's beach on Aug 21, 2022. (Photo: CNA/Kiki Siregar) JAKARTA: Bali’s tourism chief Tjokorda Bagus Pemayun said that foreigners should not be deterred from visiting the island after the Indonesian parliament passed a Bill criminalising premarital sex and cohabitation. Under the new criminal code passed on Tuesday (Dec 6), people who have sex outside of marriage or cohabit can be reported to the police. However, those who break the law can only be reported to the authorities by their parents, spouses or their children. Taking effect in three years' time, the punishment for premarital sex would be a maximum of one year in jail or a fine of 10 million rupiah (US$640). For cohabitation, the [...]
LAMP expand on agri project partners
Dr. Fritz Cobrado, Director of the nongovernmental organization LAMP Foundation International, said during a group discussion among their participants that the LAMP’s thrust is on agriculture emphazing their capability to extend their assistance to farmers. Dr. Cobrado explained further that organic farming, also known as ecological farming, is an agricultural system that uses fertilizers of organic origin such as compost manure, green manure, and bone meal and places emphasis on techniques such as crop rotation and companion planting. Shown on this photo are Bishop Fritz Cobrado, Director of LAMP Foundation International and some participants, on their way to Lanao, Misamis Occ. Pagadian & Lapuyan Zamboanga del Sur to conduct ocular inspection, empowerment, coaching and mentoring to LAMP Scholars in different schools and various farming projects. LAMP - Operation ABBA [...]
Putin acknowledges Russia’s war in Ukraine could be a long one
Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech during the 19th Annual Meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club in Moscow, Russia, on October 27, 2022. Sputnik/Mikhail Metzel/Pool via REUTERS LONDON/KYIV — Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged that his army could be fighting in Ukraine for a long time, but for now there will be no second call-up of soldiers. Putin has rarely spoken about the duration of a war that he began more than nine months ago but told loyalists in a televised meeting on Wednesday it could go on for some time yet. “This can be a long process,” he said. Russia has been forced into a series of significant retreats in the face of Ukrainian counter-offensives, waged with increasing stocks of Western weaponry, in the east and [...]
PH must provide ‘enabling environment’ for digital economy — VP Duterte
Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday, Dec. 7, recognized the need for the government to provide an “enabling environment” where digital economy will thrive to open opportunities for Filipinos to participate in the digital economy. Vice President Sara Duterte (Photo from Chinese Embassy in Manila) In a recorded speech for the National Cybersecurity Talent Framework Analysis Report by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Better Access and Connectivity (BEACON), the official thanked both agencies “for implementing various initiatives to improve the digital ecosystem of the Philippines.” “Our counterpart efforts shall be focused on providing for the enabling environment for digital infrastructure to become efficient, reliable, and facilitative of a thriving digital economy,” she said. “We shall look into policy reforms and consider risk-based cyber-protection planning [...]
Ardern weighs spending priorities and Cabinet line-up ahead of election year
Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone A newly prioritised spending plan and fresh ministerial line-up are part of Labour's plan to reset the political landscape for the start of 2023 - election year. The political headwinds are significant: a cost-of-living crisis only set to worsen; waning support for the governing party and its high profile leader; the murky dynamics of disinformation and social disunity swirling below. "You're right to characterise it as a challenging year," says Jacinda Ardern, settling into a chair looking out over the sunny backyard at Premier House in a suitably festive red Juliette Hogan trouser suit. It's a sharp contrast to the year the prime minister is here to reflect on, and the troubling times New Zealanders are warned to expect over the next few years. "I'm also reminded [...]
Marcos confident there won’t be recession in PH
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Thursday that despite rising inflation, he is optimistic that the Philippines would not experience recession because of the continuous drop in the country’s unemployment rate. Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Marcos acknowledged that inflation in the country hit a 14-year high of 8 percent in November but pointed out that the jobless rate in October eased to 4.5 percent, its lowest record since the same period in 2019. “Ang balita na tumaas ang inflation rate na hanggang 8 percent last November. Mayroon naman kasabay na mas magandang balita na bumaba ang unemployment rate sa four-and-a-half percent mula sa 5 percent (The news is that inflation rate increased to 8 percent last November. But it [...]
Marcos to attend APEC summit next year in US, envoy says
Metro Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will attend the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders’ meeting in the United States in November 2023, the Philippine ambassador to the US said on Thursday. "President Marcos will be coming in November for the APEC meeting in the West Coast. I am confirming that President Marcos will be attending together with all the leaders who have been invited to APEC," Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez told CNN Philippines. Romualdez said Marcos is expected to meet with American business groups to discuss possible investments in the country. By then, Romualdez said the government would be “ready to show the economic reforms and economic programs” to entice investors. The summit will be held on the week of Nov. 12 in San Francisco, California, US [...]
Indonesia passes criminal code banning sex outside marriage
GETTY IMAGES/ There were protests against the new code on Monday Indonesia's parliament has approved a new criminal code that bans anyone in the country from having extramarital sex and restricts political freedoms. Sex outside marriage will carry a jail term of up to a year under the new laws, which take effect in three years. The raft of changes come after a rise in religious conservatism in the Muslim-majority country. Critics see the laws as a "disaster" for human rights, and a potential blow to tourism and investment. Several groups of mainly young people protested against the legislation outside parliament in Jakarta this week. It is expected the new laws will be challenged in court. They apply equally to locals and to foreigners living in Indonesia, or visiting holiday [...]
China’s Xi visiting Saudi Arabia amid bid to boost economy
In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks during a memorial for the late former Chinese President Jiang Zemin, who passed away on Nov 30 at the age of 96, held in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Tuesday, Dec 6, 2022. (File Photo: Pang Xinglei/Xinhua via AP) BEIJING: Chinese leader Xi Jinping is attending a pair of regional summits in Saudi Arabia this week amid efforts to kick-start economic growth weighed down by strict anti-COVID-19 measures. The Foreign Ministry said Wednesday (Dec 7) that Xi will attend the inaugural China-Arab States Summit and a meeting with leaders of the six nations that make up the Gulf Cooperation Council in the Saudi capital of Riyadh. His state visit to Saudi [...]
China announces nationwide loosening of COVID-19 restrictions
BEIJING: China announced Wednesday (Dec 7) a nationwide loosening of COVID-19 restrictions following protests against the hardline strategy that grew into calls for greater political freedoms. Under the new guidelines, some asymptomatic and mild cases of COVID-19 can now quarantine at home, ending a requirement that all positive cases be isolated in centralised government facilities. Most of the cases are asymptomatic infections and mild cases, with no special treatment required, the National Health Commission (NHC) said in a statement. "Asymptomatic persons and mild cases can be isolated at home while strengthening health monitoring, and they can transfer to designated hospitals for treatment in a timely manner if their condition worsens," the NHC added. The frequency and scope of PCR testing will also be reduced, the National Health Commission (NHC) said. Mandatory [...]
DOH denies hand, foot, and mouth disease outbreak
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) said there was no declaration of an outbreak of the hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in the National Capital Region after posts circulated online about a possible outbreak in certain areas in the region, particularly in Sta. Mesa, Manila. The DOH recorded 155 cases of HFMD in Metro Manila from October to December, mostly among children aged 11 years old and below. "Wala po tayong dinedeklarang outbreak para sa hand, foot, and mouth disease. Hindi po siya nangyari nang isahan lang, nangyari siya over a span of two to three months. Dito saNCR (National Capital Region) we are seeing an increase in cases pero wala pang trigger or wala pa tayong enough basis for our local governments to [...]
Stats NZ confirms drop in household climate emissions during 2020 Covid lockdown
A car-free Auckland motorway on the first day of a Covid-19 lockdown in March 2020. Photo: RNZ / Dan Cook New data confirms the Covid-19 lockdown restrictions in 2020 caused a drop in household climate emissions. Stats NZ information shows the amount of greenhouse gas pollution from peoples' consumption and lifestyle choices was lower because people were forced to leave the car in the garage. The carbon footprint of households decreased by 6.3 percent in 2020 - with a full quarter of that (26 percent) from lower transport emissions. Of that, pollution caused by making and getting fuel to New Zealand, as well as from peoples' personal flights, public transport and taxis trips nearly halved dropping by 43 percent. The change saw transport, usually the largest share of household [...]
BuCor execs face plunder charges
BUREAU of Corrections Officer in Charge Gregorio Catapang Jr.. File Photo BUREAU of Corrections Officer in Charge Gregorio Catapang Jr. vowed to file plunder charges against BuCor officials involved in the release of funds for the upgrading of prison facilities. Catapang said he discovered that 95 percent of the budget for the modernization of three of BuCor's seven prisons and penal farms have been released, but only 60 percent of the projects have been completed. Aside from the Iwahig and Davao prisons, BuCor's other operating units include the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City, Abuyog Penal Colony in Leyte, Correctional Institute for Women in Mandaluyong City, Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm in Occidental Mindoro, and San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm in Zamboanga City. Each of the prison [...]
Phivolcs: Taal Volcano registers small phreatomagmatic burst in last 24 hours
MANILA, Philippines — A small phreatomagmatic burst was recorded in Taal Volcano in the last 24 hours, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Wednesday. In its monitoring from 5 a.m. Tuesday to 5 a.m. on Wednesday, Phivolcs said the phreatomagmatic burst recorded in Taal lasted for a minute. The volcano also exhibited a weak emission of plumes reaching up to 600 tall that drifted to the southwest. Phivolcs said 2,115 tonnes of sulfur dioxide were also released from the volcano on Tuesday, December 5. Slight inflation was also observed on the Taal Volcano Island and Western Taal Caldera, while deflation was seen on Eastern Taal Caldera. Alert Level 1 was placed over Taal Volcano, meaning there is “low-level unrest.” Under Alert Level 1, entry to Taal [...]
PH jobless tally eases to 2.24M in October; underemployment rate also down
Metro Manila, Philippines — The number of jobless Filipinos fell to 2.24 million in October, with the unemployment rate dipping to its lowest in two years, data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Wednesday showed. The PSA said the national unemployment rate that month was at 4.5%, down from 5% in September when the estimated unemployment tally was 2.5 million. This is the country’s lowest percentage of Filipinos out of work since October 2019, PSA chief Dennis Mapa said in a press briefing. “Last quarter kasi, medyo marami tayong mga economic activities because of the holiday season, so expected naman ito na bumaba ‘yung ating unemployment rate, nasa 4.5% na lang. And we hope that this will continue,” Mapa explained. [Translation: Last quarter, there were a lot of [...]
Magnitude 5.3 earthquake jolts Metro Manila and other Luzon areas
BREAKING NEWS— Magnitude 5.3 earthquake hits Metro Manila and other areas in Luzon. According to Philvocs, it hit around 1:05pm with the epicenter reported in Vinzons, Camarines Norte. No damages are reported as of now.
PBBM, VP Sara, Cabinet officials get ‘high’ approval, trust ratings in survey
Vice President Sara Duterte (left) and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (right) (OVP) President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Vice President Sara Duterte, and current Cabinet officials received “high” approval and trust ratings in a nationwide survey conducted by non-government organization RP-Mission and Development Foundation, Inc. (RPMD). The results of the “Boses ng Bayan” survey released on Monday, Dec. 5, showed that 83 percent of respondents were satisfied with President Marcos’ job performance, while 81 percent expressed approval of Vice President Duterte, who is also the Secretary of the Department of Education. Likewise, both President Marcos and Vice President Duterte received a high trust rating of 87 percent. The independent and non-commissioned survey was conducted from Nov. 27 to Dec. 2 with 5,000 adult respondents nationwide. RPMD noted that the performance [...]
PH inflation jumps 8% in November
Inflation quickened to 8.0 percent in November from 7.7 percent in the previous month, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Tuesday, Dec. 5. The latest inflation reading also accelerated from 3.7 percent in November 2022.
Violent protests in Greece after Romany boy shot by police
About 1,500 people take part in protest march in Thessaloniki with teenager in critical condition Fires burning on road outside hospital in Thessaloniki on Monday. Photograph: Dimitris Tosidis/AP Violent protests have broken out in Greece’s second-largest city over the police shooting of a Romany teenager after he allegedly filled his vehicle at a fuel station and drove off without paying. The 16-year-old boy was being treated at a Thessaloniki hospital where he was in critical condition. The officer who allegedly shot him in the head was arrested and suspended from duty, police in the northern city said. About 1,500 people took part in a protest march organised by leftwing and anarchist groups in central Thessaloniki on Monday night. Some smashed shops and threw molotov cocktails at police, who responded [...]
New Zealand opens inquiry into Covid response
DOING THEIR DUTY Technicians in protective gear take samples at a community coronavirus testing center in the city of Auckland, northern New Zealand on Dec. 28, 2021. NEW ZEALAND HERALD FILE PHOTO VIA AP WELLINGTON— New Zealand is launching a wide-ranging inquiry into whether it made the right decisions in battling the coronavirus, and how it can better prepare for future pandemics. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday that Covid-19 had posed the greatest threat to the nation's health and economy since World War 2. Now is an appropriate time to examine the government's response with the highest level of independent inquiry, she added. Among the questions will be whether New Zealand took the right approach initially by imposing strict lockdowns and border quarantine restrictions in order to try [...]
Bong Go vows to help more Filipinos
Sen. Christopher Lawrence 'Bong' Go. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO SEN. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go said his high trust rating will serve as his inspiration to further help Filipinos. Based on the Tugon ng Masa (TNM) 2022 fourth quarter survey by OCTA Research, Go posted a 74 percent overall trust rating in October 2022, which is 24 percent higher compared to his December 2021 rating of 50 percent. The senator, in a statement on Monday, said he welcomes his higher trust and satisfaction ratings. He thanked Filipinos for allowing him to serve them and reaffirmed his commitment to continue helping more vulnerable sectors nationwide. "Bisyo ko ang magserbisyo. At naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Diyos (My vice is to serve. I believe that the service to people [...]
Auckland Airport travel warning due to job vacancies
More than 500 airport system roles have been filled after a job fair at Auckland Airport in July this year. In a statement, the airport said while it's pleased 17% of the roles have been filled, 1600 remain vacant. As a result travellers may experience longer wait times when flying this summer, the airport said. The fair involved around 4000 job seekers connecting with 30 major airport employers who had around 3000 jobs on offer at the time. The vacant roles are across several departments including cabin crew, security, warranted government officers, retail assistants, chefs, baristas, and cleaners, Auckland Airport chief executive Carrie Hurihanganui said. “These are all crucial roles that help keep the airport ecosystem running smoothly. Travel has rebounded strongly after the borders re-opened and these businesses [...]
Congress ratifies ₱5.268-T nat’l budget for 2023
Metro Manila, Philippines— Both houses of Congress on Monday gave the green light to the bicameral conference committee report on the ₱5.268-trillion national budget for 2023. The budget measure is now up for signing into law by the President. The final version, ratified separately by the Senate and the lower chamber, restored several controversial provisions, including the Department of Education’s (DepEd) ₱150-million confidential fund (CIF) and the ₱10-billion funding for the government’s anti-communist task force. The amended appropriations also included the ₱12-billion increase for the budget of the House of Representatives, giving it a total allocation of ₱28.8 billion for next year. According to Senate finance panel chairperson Sonny Angara, the increased House budget included funding for the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) program, fuel subsidies for public transportation vehicle [...]
At least 27 killed in Colombia landslide: President
Aerial view of a landslide that engulfed a bus and other vehicles, killing 27 people in northwest Colombia. (Photo: AFP/Stringer) BOGOTA: At least 27 people were killed when a landslide engulfed a road in northwest Colombia, trapping people in a bus and other vehicles, said President Gustavo Petro on Monday (Dec 5). "It is with sadness that I must announce that, so far, 27 people, including three minors, have lost their lives in the tragedy" that struck on Sunday in a remote area of the Pueblo Rico municipality, Petro wrote on Twitter. On Sunday evening, the president reported three dead, as dozens of rescue workers searched for survivors. One survivor said the driver of the bus managed to dodge the worst of the landslide. "Part of it was [...]
DBM chief to private sector: Help us advance public service
Amenah Pangandaman (PNA file photo) MANILA – Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Thursday called on the private sector to help the government in improving public services to fast-track the country's economic recovery. Pangandaman made the call in a video message delivered to the Public Sector Quality and Productivity Improvement Forum (PSQPIF) organized by the Development Academy of the Philippines. "Today’s event is anchored on the Government Quality Management Program which aims to ensure citizen satisfaction through government-wide quality improvement and building capacities across public sector organizations. In other words, it is designed to steer the bureaucracy towards a more ‘citizen-centered service delivery’," she said in her keynote speech. "I want my message to revolve around the main stakeholders that will help us advance [...]
Russia rejects $60 oil price cap, warns of response
Ukraine’s Western allies approve oil price cap to starve Russia of revenues as Kyiv pushes for a lower cap as the war continues. Under Friday's agreements, insurance companies and other firms needed to ship oil would only be able to deal with Russian crude if the oil is priced at or below the cap [File: Gaetano Adriano Pulvirenti/AP Photo] Russia has rejected a $60 price cap on its oil set by Ukraine’s Western allies and warned of a response as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said it was “quite comfortable” for Moscow amid a push from Kyiv for a lower cap. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Saturday that Russia would not accept the price ceiling, adding that it needed to analyse the situation before deciding on a specific response. The [...]
New Malaysian Cabinet led by Anwar Ibrahim sworn in at the national palace
Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (right) poses with Deputy Prime Ministers Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (centre) and Fadillah Yusof (left) after the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed cabinet ministers at the National Palace in Kuala Lumpur, on Dec 3, 2022. (Photo: AFP/Pool/HASNOOR HUSSAIN) KUALA LUMPUR: The new Malaysian Cabinet led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim was sworn in on Saturday afternoon (Dec 3). The Cabinet line-up includes two deputy prime ministers - Barisan Nasional’s (BN) Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Gabungan Parti Sarawak’s (GPS) Fadillah Yusof. Mr Anwar also holds the finance portfolio, while Mr Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz of BN is the new trade minister. Speaking to reporters after taking his oath of office, Mr Ahmad Zahid called on all sides to set aside their political differences so that the new unity government [...]
Renewables best option for cheap energy in Mindanao
POWER SOURCES | The placid Lake Lanao before the Marawi siege in 2017, has been a cheap source of energy in Mindanao through the Agus hydropower plants. (Photo by ERWIN MASCARIÑAS) (Last of two parts) DAVAO CITY, Davao del Sur, Philippines — Assistant Secretary Romeo Montenegro, deputy executive director of the Mindanao Development Authority (Minda), loves to remember the time, not so long ago, when electricity rates in Mindanao hovered at P6 per kilowatt-hour, the lowest in the country. This was when hydroelectricity generated from the waters of Agus and Pulangi rivers made up the bulk of the region’s energy supply. The Agus and Pulangi plants had a combined installed capacity of 1,001.1 megawatts. Pulangi IV in Maramag town, Bukidnon, has three generating units at 85 MW each, while [...]
Marcos eyes skills upgrade for OFWs
‘ONE’ WORKSHOP Migrant Workers Secretary Susan ‘Toots’ Ople announces on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022, that the department for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) will convene its first strategic planning workshop, titled ‘We A.C.T. As One,’ with all labor attaches in Tagaytay City from December 12 to December 15. PHOTO BY BENEDICT ABAYGAR JR. PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Saturday pushed for better welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) as he expressed hope that working abroad would eventually become "a choice rather than a necessity." In his message during Go Negosyo's Kabayan Awards 2022 in Pasay City, Marcos promised better support and training for OFWs to ensure their skills are at par with global standards. "As President, I assure you that the national government will continuously work to ensure the [...]
DepEd to include ‘peace building’ in curriculum, hold ‘mandatory toothbrush drill’
Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte speaks to reporters in San Pedro City, Laguna on Dec. 1, 2022. Arra Perez, ABS-CBN News LAGUNA - The Department of Education (DepEd) is working to include "peace building" in the K to 12 curriculum, according to Vice President and Education Sec. Sara Duterte on Thursday. Duterte said this will be dubbed as the "National Culture of Peace". "Ginagawa pa namin siya ngayon. And once we are ready, iko-consult muna namin sa aming mga partners and stakeholders. And then once it's ready, ipresenta namin sa lahat," she said in a chance interview during the Christmas tree lighting ceremony in San Pedro City. The official previously mentioned in a TV interview that the move will help solve insurgency problems and the alleged [...]
Turkish president says will ‘definitely’ complete 30-km-deep security corridor
ANKARA—President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said Türkiye will complete the 30-kilometer-deep (18.6-mile) security strip along its southern border. Speaking at a meeting in southern Sanliurfa province, Erdogan said that attacks will not deter the country from its determined stance on securing its southern border. "We will definitely complete the 30-kilometer-deep security corridor that we are establishing along our southern borders, attacks will not dampen our resolve," he said. Since 2016, Türkiye has launched a trio of successful anti-terror operations across its border in northern Syria to prevent the formation of a terror corridor and enable the peaceful settlement of residents: Euphrates Shield (2016), Olive Branch (2018), and Peace Spring (2019). The PKK is listed as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the European Union, and the US, and is [...]
China says ‘Europe bleeding’ but US ‘made fortune’ out of Ukraine crisis
Foreign Ministry spokesman says Washington introduced Inflation Reduction Act 'for own interests, ignoring impact on other countries' ISTANBUL China on Friday accused Washington of benefitting from the crisis in Ukraine as Europe suffers from sky rocketing inflation and energy crisis in winter. “The US has made a fortune in the Ukraine crisis, while Europe is bleeding and paying for higher energy prices due to inflation,” said Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry. He was commenting on the US Inflation Reduction Act, legislation signed in August for urgent investments to lower prescription drug costs, health care costs, and energy costs. Zhao said the US introduced the law “for its own interests while ignoring the impact on other countries, including its so-called allies and partners.” “This is another example [...]
Govt hospital to rise in Limay, Bataan
LIMAY, Bataan: A groundbreaking ceremony was held here on Friday, December 2, for the building of a P400-million government hospital. Hausland Group President Willy Tan donated 2,000 square meters of lot at Seabreeze in Barangay St. Francis 2 for the hospital. His son, lawyer Ryan Tan, attended the groundbreaking on his behalf. Gov. Jose Enrique "Joet" Garcia 3rd said the hospital is a realization of a project he started when he was still a congressman of the second district of Bataan. He authored House Bill 8759, or an "Act establishing in the municipality of Limay in Bataan, a general hospital to be known as the Limay General Hospital." Second District Rep. Albert Garcia, the former Bataan governor, said that in about a year, the Limay hospital will be serving [...]
Elon Musk releases Twitter files on Hunter Biden ‘scandal’
Twitter file photo HOUSTON, United States – Twitter CEO Elon Musk promoted a series of tweets Friday that revealed old files that old management buried or blocked involving Hunter Biden’s laptop scandal story during the 2020 US presidential election. In a lengthy thread, independent journalist Matt Taibbi said he received "thousands of internal documents" from Twitter sources pointing to the suppression of the Biden laptop story on Twitter in which the company controversially blocked people from tweeting and direct-messaging about the story. "Twitter took extraordinary steps to suppress the story, removing links and posting warnings that it may be ‘unsafe.’ They even blocked its transmission via direct message, a tool hitherto reserved for extreme cases, e.g. child pornography," Taibbi tweeted. A 2020 [...]
₱30M worth of ‘smuggled’ onions seized – DA
Metro Manila, Philippines— Authorities have intercepted some ₱30 million worth of yellow onions "smuggled" into the country, the Department of Agriculture (DA) disclosed on Saturday. The sacks of the produce — pegged at 100,000 kilograms — were discovered in four large container vans earlier this week, the DA said in a statement. The items were declared as packages of bread and pastries. “The discrepancy in the import documents of said shipments presupposes that it did not undergo any food safety regulations,” the department said. “This poses a great risk to our consumers.” The DA did not mention where the operation took place, but noted it was carried out with other agencies including the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). It said it will submit a recommendation to [...]
Pentagon unveils first strategic bomber in over 30 years to counter China
The nuclear-capable B-21 Raider is set to become a key component in US’s effort to match the Asian country’s military build-up The B-21 Raider is a new high-tech strategic bomber developed for the US air force.Photograph: Us Air Force/Reuters The Pentagon unveiled its first new strategic bomber in more than 30 years on Friday, a nuclear-capable bat-wing plane that will become a central component of the US effort to counter China’s military build-up when it enters service around 2027. Almost every aspect of the B-21 Raider is classified, but in a tightly-controlled unveiling at the Air Force’s Plant 42 in Palmdale, California, currently home of Lockheed-Martin’s legendary Skunk Works, the new strategic plane was briefly shown to the public. “This isn’t just another airplane,” Lloyd Austin, the defence secretary, [...]
PBBM leads Christmas tree lighting, parol-making awarding rites
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday led the traditional Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Kalayaan Grounds of Malacañan Palace, kicking off the Yuletide season. CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday (Dec. 3, 2022) leads the traditional Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Kalayaan Grounds in Malacañan Palace. (Screenshot from Radio Television Malacañang) "I’m very happy to have been able to do this [Christmas] Tree Lighting and it really is a different feeling," Marcos said in his speech. "And so with the lighting of the tree, it is official. The official Christmas season has begun," he added. This is the first time Marcos led the annual lighting of Christmas tree at the Palace. Ecstatic over the switch-on ceremony, Marcos said the occasion gives Filipinos [...]
US signals shift to slower interest rate increases
REUTERS The head of the US central bank has said authorities may start to ease up on interest rate hikes as soon as this month, after racing to raise borrowing costs earlier this year. The Federal Reserve has made four hefty 0.75 percentage point rises since June in a bid to curb inflation, which is the rate at which consumer prices rise. Fed chairman Jerome Powell said "it makes sense" to slow down to assess the impact of the moves. Markets soared following the comments. In the US, the Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped more than 2%, while the S&P 500 surged 3% and the Nasdaq jumped 4.41%. The dollar fell, while other global exchanges also jumped. The US has been driving a global shift, as central banks raise [...]
Japan court upholds ban on same-sex marriage but raises rights issue
GETTY IMAGES/Same-sex marriage campaigners welcomed the ruling despite the ban being upheld A Tokyo court has upheld a ban on same-sex marriage in Japan, but also said that the ban was a violation of human rights. The compensation case was brought by four couples who claimed the law was discriminatory. Japan is currently the only G7 nation that does not recognise same-sex marriage. Campaigners have welcomed the ruling as an indication to the government that it needs to change the law. "This is actually a fairly positive ruling," said Nobuhito Sawasaki, one of the lawyers involved in the case. "While marriage remains between a man and a woman..., (the court) also said that the current situation with no legal protections for same-sex families is not good, suggesting something must [...]
US Senate staff members visit De Lima at PNP Custodial Center
VISIT TO DE LIMA. Staff members of US Senator Dick Durbin and the US Embassy visit undergo security procedures during their visit to detained former senator Leila de Lima at the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Crame on Thursday (Dec. 1, 2022). The visit began at 9:40 a.m. and ended at 10:20 a.m. (Photo courtesy of PNP) MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Staff members of an American senator on Thursday visited former Senator Leila de Lima in her quarters at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center. In a press statement, the PNP Public Information Office said de Lima, a person under PNP custody, was visited by Chris Homan, senior adviser on national security and foreign policy of US Democrat Senator Dick Durbin, and three others assisted by US Embassy [...]
Hontiveros: Nuclear energy a magnet for terrorist groups
FILE PHOTO Metro Manila, Philippines— The use of nuclear energy in the Philippines may put the country in danger of terrorist groups, Senator Risa Hontiveros said on Wednesday. “Radioactive waste will be a target, a magnet for the so-called nuclear terroristic groups that are scouting around the world for these wastes, or even just the raw nuclear energy to use in the production of nuclear weapons,” Hontiveros told CNN Philippines’ The Source. She also said that nuclear energy in the country “would be taking steps backward into the past, not forward into a sustainable and peaceful future for the world.” In an earlier statement, Hontiveros maintained that safety issues surrounding nuclear energy, including the mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) remain unanswered. "Radioactive waste will outlive not just all of [...]
Marcos backs creation of Maharlika Wealth Fund — Diokno
Metro Manila, Philippines— The creation of the sovereign wealth fund has secured the green light from President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., according to the country's finance chief. During the Kapihan sa Manila Bay Forum on Wednesday, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said the proposed Maharlika Wealth Fund (MWF), with seed money of over ₱200 billion to jumpstart the incorporation, has been "an imprimatur of the president." The official also said the MWF is being prepared by an inter-agency working group composed of the Department of Finance, the Department of Budget and Management, the National Economic and Development Authority, and government financial institutions. Earlier this week, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and senior deputy majority leader and Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos filed a bill seeking the establishment of a sovereign [...]
China softens tone on COVID-19 severity after protests
Barriers form a security checkpoint in the Haizhu district in Guangzhou in southern China's Guangdong province on Nov 11, 2022. (AP Photo) BEIJING: China is softening its tone on the severity of COVID-19 and easing some coronavirus restrictions even as its daily case toll hovers near records, after anger over the world's toughest curbs morphed into protests across the country. Several cities in the world's second-largest economy, while still reporting infections, are breaking with past practice by lifting district lockdowns and allowing businesses to reopen. In making those announcements, health authorities did not mention the protests, which ranged from candle-lit vigils in Beijing to clashes with the police on the streets of Guangzhou on Tuesday (Nov 29) and at an iPhone factory in Zhengzhou last week. The demonstrations [...]
Marcos wants PH-China joint exploration to proceed
President Ferdinand "Bongbong"Marcos Jr. on Thursday said the Philippine government will find "other ways" for the joint exploration with China in the area of the West Philippine Sea to proceed if the government-to-government (G2G) talks would not work.Speaking to reporters in Quezon City, Marcos said that the oil exploration is just a "small thing" for China but something important for the Philippines. The West Philippine Sea, which is a part of the South China Sea, is also being claimed by Beijing. The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in 2016 upheld the Philippines' claim and dismissed China's argument that the territory belonged to them by virtue of the historical "nine-dash line"."I think there might be other ways para hindi gawing (so that it doesn't become) G2G or I don't know. [...]
Former Chinese president Jiang Zemin passes away
In this file photo taken on April 6, 1992 shows General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party Jiang Zemin in Beijing. AFP PHOTO (UPDATE) BEIJING: Former president Jiang Zemin, who led China out of isolation after the army crushed the Tiananmen Square pro-democracy protests in 1989 and supported economic reforms that led to a decade of explosive growth, died Wednesday. He was 96. Jiang died of leukemia and multiple organ failure in Shanghai, where he was a former mayor and Communist Party secretary, state TV and the official Xinhua News Agency reported. A surprise choice to lead a divided Communist Party after the 1989 turmoil, Jiang saw China through history-making changes including a revival of market-oriented reforms, the return of Hong Kong from British rule in 1997 and Beijing's [...]
Davao City celebrates November Organic Month Fest
Davao City Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte Davao City Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte graced the celebration of Organic Month which was held recently at the Rizal Park and recognized the efforts done by the Davao City Agriculture's Office in the preparations that made the event a success . Mayor Duterte in his message expressed his Office strong support in promoting Organic farming to the farmers in the 182 Barangays in Davao City as it is health-friendly and safe alternative to genetically modified organisms. It is also much more ethical choice than industry farm products. Councilor Marissa Abella, Davao City Council Committee on Food and Agriculture chair, urged small organic farmers to form cooperatives. This way, they can be certified under the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS). [...]
Marcos backs assistance project for 350,000 fisherfolk — Palace
Metro Manila, CNN Philippines— The Philippine Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency (FishCoRe) Project has received support from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., according to the Office of the Press Secretary (OPS). In a statement over the weekend, the OPS said that FishCoRe, which was created to address the issues in the fisheries sector, ensure food security, and reduce poverty incidence, is expected to benefit 354,905 registered fisherfolk in 24 provinces. “President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who also heads the Department of Agriculture (DA), is fully supportive of the project as this will ‘benefit the poorest of the poor’ among the fisherfolk in 24 provinces,” the OPS said. The OPS added that Marcos on Thursday gave his support to the project during his meeting with officials from the National Economic and [...]
LPG prices may go up in December, fuel price rollbacks may continue – DOE
Metro Manila, Philippines— The prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) products may increase by December, but the price cuts in other fuel products could continue, the Department of Energy (DOE) said. DOE Oil Industry Management Bureau director Rino Abad said the possible price hike in LPG products is due to the expected global demand. “Itong November, December, ito po yung pressure months dahil dito po ang buildup ng inventory dahil gumagamit ang northern hemisphere countries ng LPG for heating requirements sa winter period,” Abad told CNN Philippines in an interview. “Ito ay gagamitin dire-diretso, January, February, March ng next year, so inaasahan natin na tataas.” [Translation: The months of November and December are considered as the pressure months because inventories pile up as northern hemisphere countries use LPG for heating [...]
Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen quits as party chair after local elections
REUTERS/ President Tsai Ing-wen said she took responsibility for her party's poor showing in Saturday's local elections Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen has resigned as head of the governing Democratic Progressive Party after its poor showing in local elections. The opposition Kuomintang (KMT) won several major races on Saturday, including in the capital Taipei. The vote has drawn global attention as Taiwan becomes a bigger geopolitical flashpoint between China and the US. President Tsai had framed the election as a vote for democracy amid rising tensions with China. "The election results were not as expected... I should shoulder all the responsibility and I resign as DPP chairwoman immediately," Ms Tsai, who will continue as president of the self-ruled island, told reporters. The elections for local councils and city mayors theoretically have [...]
Coffee farming to be barred at Mt. Apo
MAJESTIC | Mt. Apo seen from Sitio Bagong Silang, Barangay Managa, Bansalan, Davao del Sur on Jan. 28, 2020. (Photo by ORLANDO DINOY) DAVAO CITY, Davao del Sur, Philippines — The government plans to strictly implement the law that will put a stop to farming and other disruptive human activities within the protected area of Mt. Apo, the country’s highest peak. Shirley Uy, protected area supervisor of the Mount Apo Natural Park in Cotabato province, admitted that farming activities, particularly coffee growing, had already encroached into the protected mountain range for years, although some of the farmers were already in the area even before the passing in 2003 of Republic Act No. 9237, the law that declared it as protected, defining its boundaries. Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary [...]
PNP warns public vs crypto scam
(UPDATED) THE Philippine National Police-Anti Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) warned the public not to fall prey to scammers who offer fake crypto investments. PNP-ACG director BGen. Joel Doria said online scammers are working double time to "rob people of their money with only a few days before Christmas and employees starting to receive their Christmas bonuses." Doria said the police received reports that fraudsters have been enticing potential victims by offering "fake" crypto investments. Potential investors are asked to download an app which when installed will require them to cash in their investments in digital wallets listed in the application. In the dashboard, account holders will be able to see the amount of money they have invested and the high interest their money has earned over time. As investors begin [...]
Shanghai protesters, police jostle as anger over China’s COVID curbs mounts
Students take part in a protest against COVID-19 curbs at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China seen in this still image taken from a video released Nov. 27, 2022, and obtained by REUTERS. SHANGHAI/BEIJING — Hundreds of demonstrators in Shanghai shouted and jostled with police on Sunday evening as protests over China’s stringent COVID restrictions flared for a third day following a deadly factory fire in the country’s far west. The wave of civil disobedience, which has spread to other cities including Beijing, is unprecedented in mainland China since President Xi Jinping assumed power a decade ago and comes amid mounting frustration over his signature zero-COVID policy. China has spent nearly three years living with some of the strictest COVID curbs in the world. The fire in the city [...]
Create natl maritime agenda, BBM urged
MARITIME TALK The Manila Times Chairman and CEO Dante ‘Klink’ Ang 2nd interviews maritime expert Brenda Pimentel on Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022. PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA THE Philippines is an archipelagic country with a good seafaring status, but it lacks a national maritime agenda, Brenda Pimentel, former regional coordinator of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in East Asia, said. She urged President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. to create a maritime agenda that will align industry objectives and support his administration's plan to develop infrastructure. "If we have a national maritime agenda, all the agencies will have to align with these objectives. They will not just develop their own policy independent of others. Everything will then fall into place," Pimentel said in an interview on Saturday with SMNI News [...]
DBM releases P69M to fund commercialization of copra meal
MANILA – The Department of Budget and Management has approved the release of around PHP69 million to fund the commercialization of protein-enriched copra meal (PECM) in order to cushion the impact of soaring feed raw materials which, in turn, would help consumers. According to a statement on Friday, Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said the agency approved the release of PHP69.699 million to support the Protein-Enriched Copra Meal (PECM) Commercialization Project under the National Livestock Program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) on Nov. 17. The project aims to commercialize the use of PECM as a locally available feed ingredient that can substitute imported soybean for the benefit of Filipino swine and poultry raisers. “In line with President R. Marcos Jr.’s instruction to put prime importance to agriculture, we [...]
Gov’t launches new drug war campaign
Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Law enforcement agencies will have to take a step back under the Marcos administration’s new anti-illegal drugs campaign that focuses on demand reduction and drug user rehabilitation, instead of the killing of drug users, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said on Friday. President Marcos is expected to lead on Saturday the Metro Manila launch of the “Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan” (Bida, or Take Care of Life, Reject Drugs) program at Quezon City Memorial Circle in Quezon City, while regional launches will be held in Cebu City, Cagayan de Oro City and Davao City. According to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Bida is a nationwide anti-illegal drugs advocacy program involving local governments, national government agencies and other key [...]
Manila’s public transit fifth worst globally — study
Metro Manila, Philippines— Public transportation in the country's capital is among the worst in the world, according to an international study. The 2022 public transit sub-index is part of the Urban Mobility Readiness Index (UMRI) 2022 created by US-based think tank Oliver Wyman Forum and the University of California, Berkeley. Manila ranked 56th out of 60 selected global cities, or fifth worst globally, ahead of Johannesburg (South Africa), Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Nairobi (Kenya), and Jeddah (Saudi Arabia). The study measured cities on "public transit density, efficiency, and utilization rate and the extent to which they can adapt to address competition from emerging mobility services." Manila only scored 31.9% while the global average was at 51.7%. "Several modes of transportation are available in Manila, including jeepneys and some metro lines. Linkages [...]
China bares new lunar missions
NEW EXPLORATION GOALS Photo taken by the rover Yutu-2 (Jade Rabbit-2) on Jan. 11, 2019, shows the lander of the Chang’e-4 probe. The China National Space Administration (CNSA) on Thursday, Nov. 24, 2022, revealed the international payloads that will piggyback on the Chang’e-6 lunar exploration mission, and announced another call for international payload proposals for the Chang’e-7 mission. XINHUA/CNSA HAIKOU, China— The China National Space Administration (CNSA) on Thursday revealed the international payloads that will piggyback on the Chang'e-6 lunar exploration mission, and announced another call for international payload proposals for the Chang'e-7 mission. The CNSA has announced that it will carry scientific instruments from France, Italy and the European Space Agency/Sweden on the Chang'e-6 mission's lander, and a Pakistani payload on the orbiter. At present, these four international payloads [...]
Cacao National Congress held in Davao City
DAVAO— The Cacao National Congress was held on November 24-25, 2022 at the SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang Premier, Davao City . This year’s Congress bannered the theme "Cacao is Gold," which united the registered 70 exhibitors and 1,800 participants from all over the Philippines to work out and strategize creative suggestion and expectation in the country's growing cacao industry. The exhibitors, both from the government and private sectors showcased their products. Moreover, the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) under the Department of Agriculture showcased the latest technologies for cacao growing, post-harvest, and making cacao products. At the same time, the National Cacao Congress had the culmination of the Philippine Cacao Quality Awards 2022 wherein the Davao Region submitted entries with the top 10 best cacao [...]
Senate approves P5.268-trillion budget for 2023 on final reading
The Senate on Wednesday approved on third and final reading the General Appropriations Bill containing the P5.268-trillion national budget for 2023. With 21 affirmative votes, no negative votes and no abstention, the budget measure was approved barely a week after the chamber ended debates and interpellation on the proposed appropriations for government agencies. The Senate version adopted the realignment of at least P152 million worth of confidential funds of various government agencies to their maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE). The confidential funds that were realigned to MOOE are: P100 million from the Department of Education P5 million in the Department of Foreign Affairs P19.2 million in the Department of Justice P2 million in the Department of Social Welfare and Development. P6 million in other executive offices P20 million [...]
Suspect held after Chinese nationals killed at US cannabis farm
CBS A suspect has been held in the killings of four Chinese nationals on Sunday at a rural marijuana farm in the US state of Oklahoma, investigators say. Wu Chen, 45, was arrested on Tuesday 1,500 miles (2,400km) away in Florida, said law enforcement officials. The bodies were found after police received a call of a hostage situation near the town of Hennessey, 55 miles north of Oklahoma City. Oklahoma allows medical cannabis. The farm has an active legal license. Police say the suspect entered a building on the marijuana operation's property at 17:45 local time (23:45 GMT) on Sunday, when there were "several employees" inside. He remained "inside that building for a significant amount of time before the executions began", the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation said. The [...]
Ukraine war: Blackouts across Ukraine amid wave of Russian strikes
GETTY IMAGES Fire and rescue workers attend a building hit by a missile in central Kyiv President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of "crimes against humanity" after a bombardment caused blackouts across Ukraine. At least six civilians were killed in the barrage, and officials were forced to shut down three nuclear reactors due to power outages. Neighbouring Moldova also experienced blackouts, but it was not directly hit. With winter setting in, Moscow has stepped up strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Officials say Russia's missile strikes on energy stations has caused "colossal" damage and left more than half of the country's power grid in need of repair. Addressing an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council in New York, Mr Zelensky said the latest strikes had forced "millions of people [...]
Sara underscores vital role of libraries, librarians
MANILA– Vice President Sara Duterte emphasized Wednesday the crucial role of librarians and access to public libraries in the country to address learning loss and insurgency. CRUCIAL ROLE Vice President Sara Duterte delivers her speech before the Philippine Librarians Association, Inc. (PLAI), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and the National Library of the Philippines as they celebrate the Annual National Congress 2022 on Wednesday (November 23, 2022) in Iloilo. Duterte discussed the crucial role of librarians and access to public libraries in addressing post-pandemic learning loss and several societal challenges. (Photo courtesy: Office of the Vice President) “Our librarians in the Philippines will always have a friend in the Office of the Vice President because I believe in your contribution to our education. Not just to [...]
Diabetes top cause of peripheral neuropathy: health experts
MANILA – Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy, a condition characterized by damage of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, worldwide. NEUROPATHY. Central Manchester University Teaching Hospital consultant physician and professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine Dr. Rayaz Malik (center) during the “Winning the Fight Against Neuropathy in Diabetic Patients” forum on Nov. 10, 2022. Malik said peripheral neuropathy, a condition characterized by damage of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, is highly underdiagnosed in South-East Asia and the Middle East due to a lack of consensus guidance on routine screening and diagnostic pathways. (Photo courtesy of P&G Health) During the “Winning the Fight Against Neuropathy in Diabetic Patients” forum on Nov. 10, Central Manchester University Teaching Hospital consultant physician Dr. [...]
Cost of living: New Zealand steps up fight against soaring prices
REUTERS New Zealand's central bank has stepped up its fight against soaring prices, raising its key interest rate to the highest level in over 13 years. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) increased its key rate of interest by 0.75 percentage points to 4.25%. That was the biggest rise since the rate, known as the official cash rate, was introduced in 1999. It comes after the country's annual inflation rate stood at 7.2% in the three months to the end of September. Like much of the rest of the world, New Zealand has seen the cost of living rise sharply as the global economy emerges from the pandemic and the war in Ukraine has pushed up the cost of fuel and food. The RBNZ's updated forecasts also pointed [...]
Workers protest at China iPhone plant
TAKE THE TEST Workers line up to get tested for the coronavirus at the Foxconn factory in the city of Wuhan, in China’s central Hubei province — where the first Covid-19 infection was reported in late 2019 — on Aug. 5, 2021. AP FILE PHOTO BEIJING: Employees at the world's biggest Apple iPhone factory have been beaten and detained in protests over contract disputes amid anti-coronavirus controls, according to employees and videos posted on social media on Wednesday. Videos on Chinese social media that said they were filmed at the facility in the central city of Zhengzhou showed thousands of people in masks facing rows of police in white protective suits with plastic riot shields. One person was hit in the head with a club and another was taken [...]
Harris in PH to negotiate more EDCA sites – Tatad
FAREWELL: US Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Douglas Emhoff wave as they depart Puerto Princesa on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022. The couple left for Yokota Air Base in Japan. AFP PHOTO FORMER senator Francisco "Kit" Tatad said negotiation for five more Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in the Philippines was the "highlight" of the visit of United States Vice President Kamala Harris to the country. Tatad, in a forum organized by the Integrated Development Studies Institute (IDSI), shared the view of fellow speakers professors Butch Valdez and Harry Roque that EDCA "is unconstitutional." "We now have Vice President Harris with us. I don't believe we should overstate the importance of this visit," said Tatad, who writes a column for The Manila Times. He said Harris "perhaps [...]
DAR fine-tunes policies to benefit farmers, land beneficiaries
MANILA – The Marcos administration's directive to immediately respond to the needs and uplift the lives of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) will be more achievable once the Department of Agrarian Reform fine-tunes its policy guidelines. (PNA file photo) In a message sent to the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday, Secretary Conrado Estrella III said DAR is scheduled to finalize the new policy issuances in order to “improve the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), meet its performance targets and be responsive to the needs of the ARBs, landowners and the indigenous peoples (IPs).” Estrella said the DAR Policy Review and Formation Committee (PRFC) makes a yearly revisit and revision of existing policies and guidelines. “Ito ay ginagawa upang linawin ang [...]
Study group formed to review 1951 MDT with US —NSA Carlos
National Security Adviser Secretary Clarita Carlos on Tuesday said a study group has been formed to review the country's 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States. Interviewed on Dobol B TV, Carlos said the study group is composed of the National Security Council (NSC), the Department of National Defense (DND), and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), “Binigyan na kami ng directive ng Presidente. Ako ang magle-lead noon.The NSC, the DND, and the DFA nag-form na kami ng study group para talagang malinaw ito at ma-review,” she said. (The President already gave us a directive. I will lead this. The NSC, the DND, and the DFA, we already formed a study group that will clarify and review the MDT.) According to Carlos, there is no automaticity under [...]
Former executive secretary expelled from party
Former executive secretary Victor Rodriguez. TMT FILE PHOTO FORMER Executive Secretary Victor Rodriguez has been expelled from the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) for "party disloyalty" and "acts inimical to the party." The party's decision stemmed from a complaint filed before the PFP leadership by Jammal "Bong" Amin, PFP regional chairman for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Al-Rasheed Sakkalahul (PFP BARMM regional president), and Edifar "Papay" Ladjhali (PFP BARMM regional executive vice president) alleging that Rodriguez has violated the party's platform of the government of fixing the government and making the country "crime-free, drug-free, corruption-free, insurgency-free and poverty-free." Rodriguez was the chief of staff and spokesman for Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. during his presidential campaign. The complaint enumerated several instances when he purportedly used his influence [...]
PH govt rejects UN proposal to allow divorce, abortion
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla during a press briefing at the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Tuesday, October 18, 2022. PHOTO BY: RENE H. DILAN (UPDATE) THE Philippines has rejected outright the recommendation of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to legalize same-sex marriage, as well as to allow abortion and divorce. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said such recommendations of other UN member-states during last week's Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in Geneva are "not acceptable." "It's a matter of policy whether we accept it or not and I think we know as a country, we are not ready for that," Remulla said in a press briefing on Monday. "Culturally, our values may conflict with many of the values that they (Western countries) want to impose upon us. [...]
China: US interaction with ‘regional countries’ shouldn’t damage others’ interests
US Vice President Kamala Harris speaks aboard the BRP Teresa Magbanua in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on Nov. 22, 2022. PTV video Amid US Vice President Kamala Harris’ visit to the Philippines, China on Tuesday said that the United States' interactions with countries in the region should not be “damaging” to the interests of other countries. “We are not against the US’ interaction with regional countries. But it should be good for regional peace and stability and not damaging to other countries’ interests,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, according to a tweet by the Chinese Embassy. Harris, the first woman to become US vice president, arrived in the Philippines over the weekend—marking her first visit to Washington’s oldest ally in Asia. She paid separate courtesy calls on [...]
Harris: PH-US relationship based on commitment to economic prosperity, security
Metro Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. met with US Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday, with both leaders praising the long-standing relationship between the two countries. "The basis of our relationship is multifaceted. Our relationship is based on mutual commitment to the economic prosperity of the region and our respective nations," Harris said at their meeting in Malacañang. Harris said the relationship of both countries is "long and enduring" and remains strong for many reasons, among them the people-to-people ties. In her meeting with Marcos, Harris said there would be more conversations concerning the economy during her visit. "We will talk more on what that means in terms of the opportunities that are presented through our mutual concern about the climate crisis and what we might do [...]
NSA Carlos recommends filing of note verbale vs. China
MANILA – National Security Adviser (NSA) Clarita Carlos said Tuesday she has recommended to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. the filing of a note verbale against China following reports that the Chinese Coast Guard interfered with the efforts of a Philippine naval station team to recover an unidentified floating object spotted near Pag-asa Island. National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos (File photo) "Siguro 'yung pwedeng i-disclose sapublic 'yung dati nating ginagawa, mag-note verbale tayo sa China (Perhaps what I can disclose to the public is what we have always done before and that is to file a note verbale against China),” Carlos, who also serves as the chair of the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS), said [...]
Marcos on PH food security: increase rice production
President Ferdinand BBM Marcos Jr. said he is taking on the helm of the Department of Agriculture for the time being so he can properly address the country’s food security that is threatened by the global crisis in Russia-Eukraine war, gas fuel erratic prices and the Covid-19 pandemic. President Ferdinand Marcos In keeping with his promise to make the Philippines attain a higher level of food security, President Ferdinand BBM Marcos is eyeing a higher output for palay (unmilled rice) for 2023, or a new record of 20.24 million metric tons (MT) through a higher budget for the existing Rice Program to complement the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund implementation. President Marcos concurrent DA Secretary said, to increase the nation's [...]
PH rejoining ICC unlikely, says Remulla
FILE PHOTO: Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla. (Senate PRIB) The Philippines rejoining the International Criminal Court (ICC) looks far-fetched despite a recommendation made by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) during the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the country earlier this week. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, who led Manila’s delegation to the UNHRC meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, said on Friday that such a move must first be discussed with the Senate, which ratifies treaties, and former President Rodrigo Duterte. It was Duterte who ordered officials to pull the country out of the Rome Statute, the treaty that created the ICC. ‘We are not Sudan’ Remulla indicated that it was unlikely that the Philippines would go back. “Because, as far as we are concerned, we are not [...]
APEC summit: Frank exchange of views important, Jacinda Ardern tells China’s President Xi Jinping
Jacinda Ardern has met with Xi Jinping in Bangkok. Photo: POOL / Thomas Manch Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has wound up a face to face meeting with China's President Xi Jinping in which Xi said China saw New Zealand as an "important partner and friend". The meeting in a hotel on the sidelines of the Apec summit in Bangkok was scheduled for 20 minutes, but went for longer. In his translated opening comments, President Xi also said he thanked Ardern for her statements that New Zealand had an independent foreign policy, and said the China-NZ relationship had delivered benefits to both countries. "You have said on multiple occasions that New Zealand is committed to an independent foreign policy and that China - New Zealand relations are one of [...]
Marcos-Xi meeting dials down sea row
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Chinese President Xi Jinping met for the first time on 17 November 2022 on the sidelines of the APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in Bangkok. It was their first face-to-face meeting after a phone call on 18 May 2022. Photo from OPS PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Chinese President Xi Jinping avoided any mention of the arbitral tribunal ruling on the South China Sea that favored the Philippines when they sat down for a bilateral meeting Thursday. Instead, the two leaders agreed to settle disputes between their countries through "friendly consultations." The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 29th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand. "On the South China Sea, the two sides must stick to friendly consultation [...]
‘PH one of weakest military capability in region’
This file photo taken on May 14, 2019 shows a Philippines' coast guard ship (R) sailing past a Chinese coast guard ship during a joint search and rescue exercise between the Philippines and US coast guards near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. - The Scarborough Shoal fishing ground, tapped by generations of Filipino fishermen, is one of many potential flashpoints for military conflict over the South China Sea. China and Taiwan both claim sovereignty over almost the entire sea, while the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei have competing claims to parts of it. (Photo by Ted ALJIBE / AFP) (UPDATE) THE military capability of the Philippines can be considered as one of the weakest in the region, Department of National Defense (DND) Officer in Charge Senior Undersecretary [...]
US Vice President to discuss illegal fishing with Palaweños
US Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff (L) depart Joint Base Andrews en route to Thailand for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit on November 16, 2022. Haiyun Jiang / POOL / AFP United States Vice President Kamala Harris will discuss with Palawan residents the impact of illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing on their livelihoods. Harris will also meet with young Filipino women to talk about "empowering women and girls," a senior US administration official said in a background briefing on Wednesday. Harris will arrive Sunday night after attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Conference (APEC) summit in Bangkok, Thailand. The first woman US vice president will meet with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte separately on Monday. On Tuesday, Harris will travel [...]
NASA prepares for third attempt at Artemis lunar rocket launch
NASA's new moon rocket sits on Launch Pad 39-B on Nov 14, 2022, in Cape Canaveral, Florida. (Photo: AP/John Raoux) CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida: Ground teams at Kennedy Space Center prepared on Tuesday (Nov 14) for a third try at launching NASA's towering, next-generation moon rocket, the debut flight of the United States space agency's Artemis lunar program, 50 years after Apollo's last moon mission. The 32-story tall Space Launch System (SLS) rocket was due to blast off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, at 1.04am EST (2pm, Singapore time) on Wednesday to send its Orion capsule on a 25-day voyage around the moon and back without astronauts aboard. NASA flight-readiness crews were eager for success after 10 weeks beset by engineering difficulties, two hurricanes and two trips from the spacecraft's [...]
Marcos flies to Thailand for APEC meet
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Contributed Photo (UPDATE) President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. will lead the Philippine delegation to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Thailand, where he will push for measures on food and energy security as well as climate change adaptation. Marcos, who will leave for Bangkok on Wednesday, November 16, will join his fellow heads of state for the annual APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting from November 16 to 19. He will also attend other related summits where he is expected to discuss plans and priorities of the Philippines in terms of trade, investment and post-pandemic economic recovery. The President will also have at least six bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the APEC Summit. It will be the first in-person APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting since [...]
Marcos: PH, ASEAN partners experience food shortage, rising prices
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia revealed that the Philippines is not the only Southeast Asian country experiencing food shortage and rising prices of fuel and other commodities. “What I learned in having attended this ASEAN Summit is that marami talagangcommonalities ang bawat bansa [the countries have many commonalities],” Marcos told reporters in Phnom Penh. “That actually is a good thing because nag-a-agree kami na ito ‘yung mga talagang problema, ito ‘yung mga dapat unahin natin [we agree that these are the problems, that these are our priorities]. And it’s common. It’s price of food, the price of energy, the supply side problems,” he added. Marcos said other leaders spoke about their respective [...]
New Zealand government announces upgrade to ASEAN trade deal
The Government has today announced an upgrade to the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, which will see New Zealand strengthen its ties with one of its largest trading partners. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern listens to a speech during the ASEAN-East Asia Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. (Source: Associated Press) The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) region is made up of 10 member countries, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines. The conclusion to the negotiations, launched in September 2020, was announced by leaders from ASEAN, Australia and New Zealand today at the opening of the ASEAN Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. “As the world feels the impact of global economic pressures, the importance of securing high-quality, modern free trade agreements [...]
Six dead, 81 injured in suspected terrorist bomb attack in Istanbul
Members of the crime scene investigation police work as Turkish policemen secure the area after a strong explosion of unknown origin shook the busy shopping street of Istiklal in Istanbul, on Nov 13, 2022. (Photo: AFP/Yasin AKGUL) ISTANBUL: Six people were killed and 81 others wounded on Sunday (Nov 13) when an explosion rocked a busy pedestrian street in central Istanbul in what Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan called a bomb attack that "smells like terrorism". Hundreds of people fled the historic Istiklal Avenue after the blast, as ambulances and police raced in. The area, in the Beyoglu district of Turkey's largest city, had been crowded as usual at the weekend with shoppers, tourists and families. Video footage obtained by Reuters showed the moment the explosion occurred at 4.13pm, sending [...]
PBBM pushes PH bid for UN Security Council seat
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia—President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is campaigning for the candidature of the Philippines in the United Nations Security Council, which is responsible for the maintenance of world’s peace and security. In his intervention at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-United States Summit, the President pushed to become part of the 15-member council as he believed the Philippine experience “in building peace and forging new paths of cooperation, will be of additional help to the Security Council.” “At this point, allow me to request the US’ support for the Philippines’ candidature, as the ASEAN candidate, to the UN Security Council for the term 2027-2028,” Marcos said. “You may rest assured of the Philippines’ committed effort to enrich the work of the Security Council,” he added. Photo courtesy of [...]
Marcos touches base with US and China
MARCOS SPEAKS AT ASEAN SUMMIT President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. maintains that the South China Sea must remain ‘a sea of peace, security, stability and prosperity.’ Speaking at the 17th East Asian Summit in Cambodia on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2022, the President also called for the ‘denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula,’ support for advancing women’s economic empowerment, increased energy cooperation, promoting volunteerism, addressing climate change and improving food security. PHOTO FROM THE OFFICE OF THE PRESS SECRETARY President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. used the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia as a platform to touch base with geopolitical rivals China and the United States. The President met with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on the sidelines of the Asean Plus Three Summit on Saturday, and [...]
NEDA confident Philippine economy will hit 6.5%-7.5% target this year
After a stronger-than-expected third-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) growth, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) on Friday expressed optimism that the economy would hit the government’s target growth band for the entire year. “Malakas po ang aming kumpyansa na we will really be attaining ‘yung [target],” NEDA Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon said during state-run PTV’s public briefing. (We are strongly confident that we will really be attaining this target.) The Marcos administration set a target band of 6.5% to 7.5% GDP growth for 2022. As of the third quarter of 2022, the country’s GDP —the total value of goods and services produced in a specific period— grew by 7.6%, faster than the upwardly adjusted 7.5% GDP growth seen in the second quarter of the year. Edillon echoed Socioeconomic Planning [...]
PM Jacinda Ardern hopes to drive regional consensus at Asian summits
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern believes New Zealand has a global reputation for fair-mindedness, which it can bring to bear at the summits. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern hopes to use New Zealand's good international standing to drive consensus and lower regional tensions in two Asian summits she's attending in the coming week. Ardern will attend the East Asia Summit in Cambodia and APEC Summit Thailand, with regional security, climate change, and trade issues likely to be high on the agendas. She said geopolitical and other tensions had increased in the region with the Ukraine war, Myanmar's internal conflict, and China's more assertive foreign policy raising the political temperature. "These are opportunities for New Zealand to recommit to forums that drive consensus that drive dialogue over [...]
Ukraine war: Celebrations as Kyiv takes back key city Kherson
Ukrainian soldiers have been welcomed into Kherson by jubilant residents, after Russia said it had fully withdrawn from the key southern city. Video showed locals on the streets, flying Ukraine's national flag and chanting as Kyiv's troops arrived. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kherson was "our city". Kherson was the only regional capital taken by Russia after February's invasion. The retreat has been seen as one of its biggest setbacks of the war. Moscow said 30,000 personnel had been taken out of the area - as well as around 5,000 pieces of military hardware, weaponry and other assets. An evening update from the Ukrainian side said troops had pushed as far forwards as the western bank of the Dnipro river. Images emerged on Friday showing that the main river [...]
DepEd calls for water system check in W. Visayas schools
CHECK THE WATER SYSTEM. Department of Education 6 (Western Visayas) Director Ramir Uytico says the regional medical officer will be engaging counterparts in the schools' division offices to check their water system to protect learners from acute gastroenteritis, during a virtual press conference on Friday (Nov. 11, 2022). He said the check would be regionwide as protection against acute gastroenteritis. (Photo screengrab from virtual press conference) ILOILO CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) 6 (Western Visayas) has directed the 21 schools' divisions in the region to check their schools’ water systems to ensure their safety amid recorded cases of acute gastroenteritis in Iloilo. DepEd-6 Director Ramir Uytico, in a virtual press conference on Friday, [...]
Marcos to visit China in January next year
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. will meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in January next year, the Office of the Press Secretary (OPS) confirmed on Friday. The OPS said Marcos will be in China for a state visit from January 3 to 5 or 6. Malacañang already said as early as July that Marcos will meet the Chinese leader soon, but no date was given then. Marcos earlier met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi where they discussed ways to strengthen ties between the two nations amid tensions in the South China Sea. Marcos has previously stated he will talk to China with a "firm voice" but also echoed his predecessor's that Manila cannot afford to go to war against Beijing. In 2016, an international tribunal [...]
Global economic crisis strangling progress for poor, warns U.N. development chief
SHARM EL-SHEIKH, Egypt – Decades of development progress are at risk as economies are pushed backward by climate change losses, the COVID-19 economic fallout, a growing cost-of-living crisis, and soaring debt and inflation, the U.N. development chief said at COP27 in Egypt. “We essentially document a regression – and regression that is virtually universal across the board,” said Achim Steiner, who leads the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Progress toward the globally agreed Sustainable Development Goals – which include ending poverty and hunger and are due to be achieved by 2030 – is sliding, he said, with some countries finding themselves back where they were in 2016. The economic pain is making it harder for many governments to find the funding needed to roll out clean energy and tackle climate change – something that would have been easier when interest rates were still low, Steiner said in [...]
Singapore passes law against ‘harmful’ social media content
The law tightens regulation of social media in the city-state, where rights groups have accused the government of using legislation to stifle free expression. FILE PHOTO SINGAPORE - Singapore passed legislation on Wednesday empowering authorities to order social media platforms Facebook, TikTok and others to remove "egregious content" such as those promoting self-harm, sexual exploitation, terrorism and hate. The law tightens regulation of social media in the city-state, where rights groups have accused the government of using legislation to stifle free expression. Social media firms face a fine of up to Sg$1.0 million ($715,000) if they fail to comply. Singapore passed a law against online falsehoods in 2019, which the government said was aimed at fighting disinformation but which political activists and tech giants criticized as restrictive. The new [...]
More Kiwis missing school than kids in other countries
The Education Review Office launched an investigation into why New Zealand is falling behind other countries in school attendance rates. Forty percent of parents are comfortable with their child missing more than a week of school a term. (Source: 1News) It found that although Covid-19 badly disrupted attendance, there were serious issues even before the pandemic. "Between 2015 and 2019, the percent of learners regularly attending school dropped from 70% to 58%," head of ERO's education evaluation centre Ruth Shinoda said. This put New Zealand far behind countries like Australia at 73% and the UK at 87%. Forty per cent of New Zealand parents are comfortable with their child attending irregularly, missing more than a week of school a term. This rate of irregular attendance would equate to [...]
Labor coalition presses for legislated wage hike
STOCK IMAGE A broad alliance of labor groups on Wednesday urged Congress to pass a law raising the salaries of the country’s more than four million minimum wage earners who continue to grapple with rising prices of food and other basic commodities. While it welcomed the wage review order from the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole), the Nagkaisa Labor Coalition said Congress should take action as well because it “holds the power to legislate wage hikes and better employment programs.” It added that this should be the government’s response, especially when “the national objective is not only about mitigating the impacts of inflation… but most importantly, on raising the standard of living of the working class.” Another labor group, Partido Manggagawa, lobbied for Congress to legislate a P100 [...]
Marcos, DoE execs tackle energy security
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. met with top officials of the Department of Energy (DoE) and other agencies related to the sector to tackle ways the government can ensure the country’s energy security. Contributed Photo President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. met with top officials of the Department of Energy (DoE) and other agencies related to the sector to tackle ways the government can ensure the country's energy security, Malacañang said Wednesday. They tackled "immediate and medium-term plans for energy development and power supply in the country," the Office of the President (OP) said in a Facebook post. Marcos has pushed the use of renewable energy that will also step up the country's efforts in combating climate change. The DoE informed the President that it is preparing for the [...]
Control of U.S. Congress still unclear amid tight midterm races
WASHINGTON— The results of the U.S. midterm elections were not yet clear enough Wednesday to know which party will control Congress from January, although local media continues to bet on the Republicans retaking the House of Representatives by a narrower margin than expected. Control of the Senate has come down to a few races, with Democrats scoring a crucial win in Pennsylvania by flipping a seat previously held by a Republican. Georgia, another key state, is heading to a runoff slated for Dec. 6, according to U.S. media. The extremely tight race in the House came as a surprise, as the Democratic Party was seen as facing strong headwinds due to voter frustration with high inflation and the sagging popularity of President Joe Biden. While the midterms usually serve [...]
Japan and U.S. consider ‘two-plus-two’ security talks in January
Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi would attend the "two-plus-two talks" alongside Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada and their U.S. counterparts Antony Blinken and Lloyd Austin. | KYODO Japan and the United States are considering holding “two-plus-two” security talks between their foreign and defense ministers soon, possibly in January, diplomatic sources said Wednesday, with the allies facing greater security challenges from China, North Korea and Russia. The first talks being held in that format between the two nations in about a year would follow a planned revision to Japan’s National Security Strategy by the end of the year. The nation’s long-term security and diplomacy policy guidelines are slated to be updated along with two other key defense documents. With U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration releasing its first National Security Strategy last month, [...]
Bill creating more MARINA extension offices hurdles House panel
MANILA – The House Committee on Transportation on Wednesday approved a bill seeking to create additional Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) offices in Regions 2 (Cagayan Valley), 3 (Central Luzon) and 4-B (Mimaropa). The bill aims to bring effective and efficient services closer to the people, particularly the Filipino seafarers, MARINO Party-List Representative Sandro Gonzales said. "Many of our Filipino seafarers struggle when it comes to processing their MARINA documents because they do not have easy access to its offices," Gonzalez said. Gonzales, author of the bill, added that it is the reason why creation of these extension offices are deemed necessary – to save time for travel, transportation costs, and to secure a more convenient way to avail of maritime services. He said regional offices would help MARINA [...]
Marcos expected to meet with leaders of France, Canada on ASEAN sidelines
Metro Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced he is looking forward to bilateral meetings with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the 40th and 41st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits and Related Summits in Cambodia. “I’m looking forward to the bilaterals because, again, iba ‘yung usapan kapag face-to-face [discussions are different when done face-to-face],” the President said in his interview with reporters onboard flight PR 001. “I’ve never met with him (Trudeau), so I suppose it’s just going to be an introductory one,” Marcos added. On the other hand, Marcos said he has spoken to Macron twice and added that their discussions can “move forward on the details of the things that [Macron is] thinking about.” “Remember [...]
PBBM to raise SCS issue with Xi
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday expressed his intent to discuss the South China Sea (SCS) issue with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the 40th and 41st Association of Southeast Asian (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. In a media interview after departing Manila, Marcos emphasized the importance of finding ways to settle the long-standing territorial disputes in SCS between the Philippines and other littoral states which include China. Marcos said it is “impossible” for him not to mention the SCS issue with Xi when he is given the chance to hold a meeting with his counterpart. “Those kinds of discussions, [...]
COP27: What you need to know about UN climate summit
Photo: MOHAMED ABDEL HAMID/AFP World leaders have gathered in Egypt to bring to the forefront global climate-related issues at the UN climate summit in Egypt. The two-week 27th United Nations Conference of Parties, or COP27, will host discussions for commitments by governments to tackle climate change. The Pacific Islands Forum has declared a climate emergency and demand real action from world leaders. Here's everything you need to know about COP27. How did the COP meetings begin? In 1995, the United Nations got parties (countries) together to address the rising climate-related issues, particularly the warming of the planet due to human activities, mainly from burning fossil fuels such as oil, gas and coal. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global temperatures have risen 1.1C and are [...]
Four envoys visit VP Duterte
Ahmed Shehabeldin of Egypt Four ambassadors made courtesy calls on Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte on Monday to discuss continued relations while also exploring future cooperation between the Philippines and their respective countries. They were F.M. Borhan Uddin of Bangladesh, Ahmed Shehabeldin of Egypt, Ilan Fluss of Israel and Hae Kyong Yu of Australia. Uddin briefed Duterte on recent developments in Bangladesh's economy, trade and investments, and education sector, while also highlighting the historic relationship between the country and the Philippines, one of the first countries to recognize their independence in 1971. Meanwhile, Duterte told Shehabeldin about the challenges confronting the Philippine education sector and its future direction. The Egyptian envoy told Duterte his recommendations, particularly on the importance of information technology, to address the issue [...]
Free seeds for Cordillera urban folks to boost urban agri
FREE SEEDS. The Department of Agriculture in the Cordillera Administrative Region is urging residents in urban areas to engage in backyard or survival gardening to provide nutritious and fresh vegetables for their families that can even be sold in an urban setting much like in this 2020 photo of a rooftop garden in Baguio City. The department has launched the Green Revolution 2.0 program that aims to encourage residents to adopt the urban gardening technologies with available free seeds at the DA offices. (PNA photo from the FB of PIO-Baguio) BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Agriculture in the Cordillera Administrative Region (DA-CAR) is urging residents in the region to avail of free seeds to grow their own food at home [...]
Biden, Trump push for bets ahead of polls
UP WHERE WE BELONG United States President Joe Biden speaks about the economy at technology company ViaSat in Carlsbad, California on Friday, Nov. 4, 2022. AFP PHOTO PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania— They have been shadowboxing at separate campaign stops across the United States for weeks, but the leaders of the Democratic and Republican parties find themselves on the same battlefield on Saturday as they make closing pitches in Pennsylvania for next week's midterm elections. US President Joe Biden will rally alongside his old boss Barack Obama as the Democrats deploy their big guns to build the energy they hope would spread nationwide and reverse the late rightward shift in polling. And in a split-screen preview of a potential rematch of the 2020 presidential contest, the midwestern state is also playing host [...]
Marcos to hold talks with leaders of Cambodia, South Korea during ASEAN summits
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. is expected to hold bilateral meetings with leaders of Cambodia and South Korea on the sidelines of the 40th and 41st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits in Phnom Penh, Cambodia next week. Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Nathaniel Imperial said Marcos will meet with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. "So far, we're still finalizing the bilateral meetings that will be conducted by the President. But I think it would be safe to say that the first one will be with the host government, with Cambodia," Imperial said in a Palace briefing. "As a matter of courtesy, it will be their first meeting as the new president of the Philippines," he added. Imperial said Marcos will also discuss a host of issues with [...]
Malaysia deports 387 Filipinos
ZAMBOANGA CITY— A Philippine vessel carrying nearly 400 Filipinos who were arrested on various charges in Sabah, Malaysia arrived here on Friday. Most of those deported by the Malaysian government were illegal entrants to Sabah, a wealthy state being claimed by the Sultanate of Sulu. Social workers said among those deported were eight children. The Department of Social Welfare and Development said 387 arrived Friday night and were taken to a shelter until they were all processed and sent home to their respective places of origin. Last month, Malaysia also deported 355 Filipinos, according to Capt. Benzar Mukarram of the Zamboanga City Maritime Police. In September, Kuala Lumpur deported 750 illegal Filipino immigrants arrested in various places in Sabah as Malaysia continues to fight off rightful financial claims of the [...]
China says it will not waver in its ‘dynamic-clearing’ COVID-19 strategy
A woman has her throat swabbed for a COVID-19 test at a coronavirus testing site in Beijing. (File photo: AP/Mark Schiefelbein) BEIJING— China will "unswervingly" stick to its zero-COVID policy and persevere with its "dynamic-clearing" approach to COVID-19 cases as soon as they emerge, health officials said on Saturday (Nov 5). China is the last major economy wedded to a strategy of extinguishing outbreaks as they emerge, imposing snap lockdowns, mass testing and lengthy quarantines despite the widespread disruption to businesses and international supply chains. Stock markets climbed on Friday in part on unsubstantiated rumours that Beijing was poised to announce significant changes to the policy or even lay out a path towards a full reopening. But authorities poured cold water on the speculation, with National Health Commission (NHC) spokesperson Mi [...]
US flies supersonic bomber in show of force against North Korea
At least one B-1B aircraft participated in joint US-South Korea air force exercise, Seoul says, noting North Korea again fired 4 ballistic missiles. Vigilant Storm drills - involving about 240 warplanes - have triggered an angry reaction from North Korea [File: River Bruce/US Air Force via Reuters] The United States flew a supersonic bomber over ally South Korea as part of an enormous combined aerial exercise involving hundreds of warplanes in a show of force meant to intimidate North Korea over its barrage of ballistic missile tests this week. At least one B-1B bomber participated on the last day of a joint US-South Korea air force exercise that wrapped up on Saturday, South Korea’s defence ministry said. South Korea’s military also said North Korea fired four short-range ballistic [...]
Agri losses due to Paeng now at P3.16B
An aerial view of the flooded rice fields in Antique in the aftermath of Severe Tropical Storm Paeng. (PNA file photo) MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Saturday reported that damage and losses due to Severe Tropical Storm Paeng now stood at PHP3.16 billion affecting 83,704 farmers and fishers. The volume of production loss was recorded at 197,811 metric tons (MT) planted to 84,677 hectares of farmlands in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Central Mindanao, and Soccsksargen regions. Affected commodities include rice, corn, high-value crops, fisheries, livestock and poultry. Damage has also been incurred in agricultural infrastructures, machinery and equipment. The DA has already distributed PHP1.74 [...]
Marshall Islands confirms membership in Pacific Forum
The impassioned plea for regional unity by Marshall Islands President David Kabua, shown speaking to the graduation in May of the College of the Marshall Islands, led to the Marshall Islands parliament formally endorsing membership in the Pacific Islands Forum. Photo: Chewy C. Lin The Marshall Islands ended two years of being at the centre of controversy over the possible break up of the Pacific's premier regional organisation when its parliament adopted resolutions reaffirming its membership in the Pacific Islands Forum. The Nitijela (parliament) passed two resolutions in tandem late last month. One rescinds a 2021 resolution that supported ending Marshall Islands membership in the Forum, and a second one reaffirming its membership in the Forum as "vital and essential" to its foreign policy and regional cooperation. These [...]
PH resumes deployment of OFWs to Saudi Arabia
Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople. Senate PRIB The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) will resume on Nov. 7 the processing of new employment contracts for Saudi Arabia-bound overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) after the suspension of deployment due to the pandemic and welfare concerns. Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople said the OFWs to be deployed to Saudi Arabia, especially domestic workers, would benefit from the negotiated new employment contract “that ensures greater workers’ protection.” In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, a total of 189,826 new hired OFWs were deployed to Saudi Arabia. They consisted of 37,278 domestic workers and cleaners and 152,548 construction workers and other skilled workers. “We will know by Monday and the week and months ahead, the number of proposed employment contracts to [...]
PH to join call for climate change consensus at COP27 in Egypt
MANILA – The Philippine government vowed to support host Egypt in its efforts to revitalize international consensus on the climate crisis during the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change which opens at Sharm el-Sheikh City on Sunday. (Courtesy of UN) Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga leads the Philippine delegation at the conference slated November 6 to 18. Loyzaga said the Philippines would continue calling on developed countries to step up to obligations and "deliver without delay on their commitments on climate finance, technology transfer and capacity building." The Philippines expects the conference to set the stage for "transparent, accessible, predictable and efficient climate finance.” "The Philippine delegation will assert the country’s call for bolder [...]
Wearing a mask in classrooms will be optional – DepEd
MANILA, Philippines — Wearing a mask in classrooms will be optional, the Department of Education (DepEd) announced on Tuesday, just a day before the full implementation of in-person classes. “DepEd will follow [Executive Order] 7 and will issue an amendatory DO [DepEd order],” DepEd spokesperson Michael Tan Poa told INQUIRER.net in a text message. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the executive order on Oct. 28, which lifted the mandatory use of face masks indoors. A month earlier, Marcos also lifted the mandatory use of face masks outdoors. Full face-to-face classes will start on Wednesday, Nov. 2, in accordance with DO 34 series of 2022, which mandates five days of in-person classes weekly. The order also barred blended or distance learning beyond Oct. 31. Despite the optional use of face [...]
Tokyo begins recognition of same-sex partnerships
Mamiko Moda (left) and her partner Satoko Nagamura with their son hold a same-sex partnership certificate at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building on Tuesday. | AFP-JIJI Tokyo’s same-sex partnership system came into effect Tuesday, allowing sexual minority couples in the capital to be treated in the same manner as married heterosexual couples in areas such as housing, health care and child-rearing. However, same-sex marriage is prohibited nationwide, meaning various other legal protections only afforded to heterosexual married couples remain unavailable. Still, the Tokyo Partnership Oath System, despite its limitations, has been lauded by many in the LGBTQ community as a step toward achieving equal rights for sexual minorities in Japan. “As a 41-year old sexual minority and Tokyo resident, it’s a joy to have my presence finally acknowledged practically [...]
Marcos calls for better disaster response
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. together with other officials during the situational briefing at Kampilan Clubhouse, Camp BGen Gonzalo H. Siongco, 6ID PA, Awang Dos, Maguindanao Del Norte. (PHOTO CREDIT: OFFICE OF THE PRESS SECRETARY) President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Tuesday urged local government units (LGUs) and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to have closer coordination and have more joint projects for the easier facilitation of government aid in times of disasters and calamities. "I think that is something that we can improve on, the coordination between the LGUs and BARMM. And then the procedures. I know that you are just drawing up your procedures now. But you can see why this is important," the Chief Executive said during the situation briefing with BARMM [...]
‘Paeng’ leaves ₱1.33B in agriculture losses
Metro Manila, Philippines — Severe Tropical Storm Paeng ravaged agricultural lands across eight regions in the country, with damage estimated at ₱1.33 billion, the Department of Agriculture (DA) reported on Monday. According to its latest data, the DA said agricultural damage and losses were reported in the Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol region, Western Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Soccsksargen. Paeng reportedly affected 64,607 hectares of land, 66,963 metric tons of volume of production loss, and 53,849 farmers and fisherfolk. The rice sector took almost all of the hit of Paeng as the tropical cyclone affected 63,930 hectares of land, with an estimated cost of damage and loss at ₱1.23 billion. The country also lost around ₱60 million worth of high value crops and ₱5.59 million worth of [...]
Marcos at ground zero: Tree cutting to blame for landslides
RELIEF | President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leads the distribution of relief assistance to Paeng victims taking shelter at Broce Central Elementary School of Peace at Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao province, on Tuesday. (Photo from Malacañang) MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday said trees should be planted in the denuded uplands of the two Maguindanao provinces to prevent a repeat of last week’s deadly landslides after seeing for himself what environmentalists for years had been warning the government on what would happen not only in Mindanao but also in other parts of the country. Marcos, accompanied by Maguindanao del Sur Gov. Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu, flew over the areas devastated by the landslides and flash floods that followed heavy rains brought by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng (international name: [...]
India bridge collapse: Death toll rises to 141, many still missing
At least 141 people died when a pedestrian suspension bridge collapsed in India's western state of Gujarat. A local official said most of those who had died were women, children or elderly. The bridge in Morbi had been reopened just a week ago after repairs. There was overcrowding on the bridge at the time as people celebrated the Diwali festival, officials said. The 230m (754ft) bridge on the Machchu river was built during British rule in the 19th Century. The death toll is expected to rise further. Police, military and disaster response teams were deployed and the rescue effort is continuing. More than 177 people have been rescued so far, officials said. "Many children were enjoying holidays for Diwali and they came here as tourists," an eyewitness called Sukram [...]
PH, Georgia discuss expanding ties
DFA Undersecretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro (left) meets with Georgian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Khvtisiashvili (right) for the 2nd PH-GE Political Consultations held on 27 October 2022 in Manila. (DFA-OPCD Photo) The Philippines and Georgia reaffirmed their commitment to enhance bilateral relations at the 2nd Philippines-Georgia Political Consultations held on October 27 in Manila. Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro led the Philippine delegation, while Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Khvtisiashvili headed the Georgian delegation Highlighting commonalities between the two countries, Lazaro underscored that both countries are providers of seafarers. She proposed maritime cooperation with focus on seafarers' certificate recognition and exchange of information between maritime authorities and institutions. "As an archipelagic country, maritime cooperation is very important for us. The Philippines and Georgia can benefit from people-to-people exchanges between [...]
Paeng death toll climbs to 98 — NDRRMC
An aerial shot shows residents wading through a flooded rice field at a village in Tuguegarao, Cagayan province, north of Manila on October 30, 2022, a day after Tropical Storm Paeng whipped many parts of the country. (AFP) MANILA, Philippines – The wrath of tropical storm Paeng (international name: Nalgae) has resulted in 98 reported deaths, so far, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said on Monday. In its 6 a.m. situational repor, the NDRRMC said only 58 of these deaths have been confirmed – 53 in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm), three in Western Visayas, and two in Soccsksargen (Cotabato, Saranggani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat). Meanwhile, the agency noted that the 40 casualties, which have yet to be validated, were logged [...]
World food supplies at risk as Russia withdraws from Black Sea deal
SINGAPORE – Russia’s weekend backtrack from a U.N.-brokered deal to export Black Sea grains is likely to hit shipments to import-dependent countries, deepening a global food crisis and sparking gains in prices. Hundreds of thousands of tons of wheat booked for delivery to Africa and the Middle East are at risk following Russia’s withdrawal, while Ukrainian corn exports to Europe will take a hit, two Singapore-based traders said. Russia on Saturday suspended participation in the U.N. grain deal for an “indefinite term”, after what it said was a major Ukrainian drone attack on its Black Sea fleet in Crimea. “If I have to replace a vessel which was due to come from Ukraine, what are the options? Not much really,” said one Singapore-based grains trader who supplies wheat to [...]
Itaewon crowd crush death toll now 154, including 26 foreigners
A person is on his knees near Itaewon Station in Seoul on Oct. 31, 2022, in mourning of the deadly Itaewon crowd crush two days ago. (Yonhap photo) SEOUL – The death toll from the Halloween crowd crush in Seoul has risen to 154, including 26 foreigners, officials said Monday, as the country mourned the deadliest tragedy in years and tried to cope with the aftermath. The death toll could rise further, as 33 others remain in serious condition, according to officials at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters. A total of 116 others sustained minor injuries, they said. All but one of the fatalities have been identified, officials said. The 26 foreign victims include five from Iran, four each from China and Russia, two [...]
Alcohol law reform plans signalled by NZ government
Photo: 123RF Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the government will tackle alcohol law reform, to curb alcohol marketing and sponsorship, but will take time to do it right and won't be rushed. It has signalled plans to tackle the issue in March. On the other hand, swifter changes are on the cards for communities to have more control over the sale of alcohol in their areas, with a new amendment expected to the law to remove liquor companies' and supermarkets' avenues for appealing local alcohol policies. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told Morning Report that current levels of alcohol marketing in New Zealand do not sit well with her, and many other politicians felt the same way. Communities had faced difficulties battling issues such as electronic billboards outside schools, [...]
US B-52 bombers to head to Australia as tensions with China grow
A US B-52 bomber is escorted by two F-15 fighter aircraft during a fly-over at a sports game in Louisiana, in 2021. B-52s can deliver long-range strikes of both nuclear and conventional weapons. Photo: AFP/ Jonathan Bachman The United States is preparing to deploy up to six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to northern Australia, a provocative move experts say is aimed squarely at China. An investigation by ABC's Four Corners revealed Washington has plans to build dedicated facilities for the giant aircraft at Tindal air base, south of Darwin. The US has drawn up detailed plans for what it calls a "squadron operations facility" for use during the Northern Territory dry season, an adjoining maintenance centre and a parking area for "six B-52s". Becca Wasser from the Centre for [...]
Donation drives launched for Paeng victims
Workers protect themselves from rain while riding atop a garbage truck in Quezon City, on October 29, 2022. Rolex dela Pena, EPA-EFE Non-governmental organizations launched their respective donation drives to aid victims of tropical storm Paeng, which devastated a large part of the country since Friday. Caritas Manila sought food packs, wash kits, bedding materials, shelter repair kits. Interested donors may contact 8562-0020 to 25 with locals 118, 139, 135, or 0917-595-5083. Angat Buhay also posted a call for donation on social media. Besides cash, the group welcomed blankets, ready-to-eat food, rice, bottled water, sanitary kits, and face masks and rubbing alcohol.
Cavite evacuates over 2,100 residents
GENERAL TRIAS CITY, Cavite— Around 2,179 individuals or 585 families in five cities and eight towns in the province of Cavite were forced to evacuation areas in their respective localities, Saturday, October 30, because of the severe flooding brought by Typhoon "Paeng," according to the report of the Provincial Disaster Risks Reduction and Management Office.
Watch out for PH core inflation, 2nd-round effects: IMF exec
MANILA – Core inflation and second-round effects are major economic factors to watch out for in the Philippines, an executive of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said. RISKS TO INFLATION. Core inflation and second-round effects are factors that should be monitored closely vis-a-vis the Philippines' inflation rate, an executive of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Friday (Oct. 28, 2022). However, domestic growth is seen to remain solid with a print of about 6.5 percent this year but is projected to slow down to 5 percent next year. (PNA file photo) In a hybrid briefing on Friday for the release of the lender’s Regional Economic Outlook (REO), Shanaka Peiris, Division Chief of Regional Studies of the IMF’s Asia and Pacific Department, noted that the rate of price increases [...]
Cholera overwhelms Haiti as cases, deaths spike amid crisis
Thousands of people across Haiti are becoming sick with cholera as medical staff struggle to care for them despite dwindling supplies of fuel and water A girl suffering from cholera symptoms is helped by her father upon arrival at a clinic run by Doctors Without Borders in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022. For the first time in three years, people in Haiti have been dying of cholera, raising concerns about a potentially fast-spreading scenario and reviving memories of an epidemic that killed nearly 10,000 people a decade ago. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa) The Associated Press PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti -- The sun shone down on Stanley Joliva as medical staff at an open-air clinic hovered around him, pumping air into his lungs and giving him chest compressions until he died. Nearby, his [...]
‘Paeng’ leaves ’16 of 17 regions at high risk’
GRIM TASK Rescuers dig among mud and stones near a river as they try to retrieve the bodies of victims of a landslide in Kusiong village in Datu Odin Sinsuat in the southern Philippines’ Maguindanao province on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022. Severe Tropical Storm ‘Paeng’ whipped the Philippines after unleashing flash floods and landslides that officials said left at least 45 people dead. AFP PHOTO PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. is considering placing the Philippines under a one-year state of calamity due to the effects of Severe Tropical Storm "Paeng" (international name: "Nalgae") which left "16 of 17 regions at "high risk." In his meeting with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and other government officials on Saturday, the President said he would study the recommendation, [...]
At least 149 killed in crowd crush during Halloween festivities in Seoul
Officials say 150 more injured, with many being treated for cardiac arrest, after surge in South Korean capital Rescue workers and firefighters at the scene of the crush in Seoul. Photograph: Lee Ji-eun/AP At least 149 people have been killed and at least 150 more injured after being crushed by a large crowd pushing forward on a narrow street during Halloween festivities in the South Korean capital Seoul, officials have said. Choi Cheon-sik, an official from the National Fire Agency, said dozens were being treated for injuries at hospitals and that the death toll could grow after the crush in the leisure district of Itaewon on Saturday night. Officials say it was believed that the people were crushed to death after a large crowd began pushing forward in a [...]
US Vice President Harris to visit PH in November
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines — US Vice President Kamala Harris is set to visit the country next month, the White House announced on Saturday. It will take place after her trip to Bangkok, Thailand to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders Meeting on Nov. 18 and 19, a statement posted on the White House website said. Harris' visit "will re-affirm and strengthen the U.S.-Philippines Alliance and underscore the breadth of our cooperation as friends, partners, and allies," said the statement from Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. "In the Philippines, she will meet with government leaders and civil society representatives," the statement also said, adding that Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff will also travel with the Vice President to Manila. No further details of the trip have been provided. Of the [...]
Death toll from ‘Paeng’ climbs to 72 – NDRRMC
LIFELINE In this handout photo obtained from Regional Maritime Unit 12 - Sultan Kudarat Maritime Police Station Facebook page, rescuers help residents evacuate in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat on Friday, Oct.28, 2022, due to heavy rains resulting in floods brought by Tropical Storm 'Paeng' (international name: Nalgae). At least 31 people were reported killed as heavy rain lashed the southern Philippines, with some residents stranded on rooftops, a disaster official said. PHOTO BY AFP The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said on Saturday that it has received reports of at least 72 fatalities and 14 missing in Maguindanao and Region 12 (SOCCSKSARGEN) due to flooding and landslides brought about by the heavy rains spawned by Severe Tropical Storm "Paeng". Also, the NDRRMC said that a total of [...]
Paeng cuts deadly path; Bangsamoro worst hit
HEAVY DAMAGE DOWN SOUTH A landslide triggered by heavy rains in Parang town, Maguindanao, on Friday shows the almost nationwide extent of the damage wrought by Tropical Storm “Paeng,” (international name: Nalgae) whose fury may yet be fully felt this weekend in other parts of the country. Photo provided by the Philippine Marines. —AFP Tropical Storm Paeng (international name: Nalgae) drenched most parts of the country on Friday and among the worst-hit by heavy rains was the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) where dozens of people died in floods and landslides. The French news agency, Agence France-Presse, (AFP) quoted an official civil defense report saying that 67 had died by late Friday, more than the 42 earlier reported by officials. In Capiz province, the provincial Office [...]
Death toll from Philippine flash floods rises to 67 — official tally
Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescuers evacuate residents from their flooded homes due to a tropical storm, locally named Paeng, in Maguindanao province, Philippines, October 28, 2022. Philippine Coast Guard/Handout via REUTERS COTABATO - Landslides and flooding in the southern Philippines killed at least 67 people on Friday, according to an official tally, with rescuers racing to save residents of a mountain village that was buried in mud. The village of Kusiong accounted for many of the 50 deaths in the area around Datu Odin Sinsuat town, after heavy overnight rain unleashed floods mixed with mud, rocks and fallen trees that buried the community, the area's civil defense office said in a statement. Similar avalanches also struck villages in the nearby towns of Datu Blah Sinsuat and Upi, which [...]
PH senators seek more trade opportunities in France
SEN. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go. Contributed Photo SEN. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go and other members of the Philippine Senate delegation in France met with the country's businessmen and private sector leaders to discuss potential opportunities and areas of economic cooperation on the second official day of their parliamentary visit to the European country. On Wednesday, October 26, Go, with Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, had a meeting with energy and transportation sector leaders to explore possible opportunities for investments in the Philippines. The senator said that the meetings also serve to provide an opportunity to discuss potential avenues of collaboration between the Philippines and France in key industries. "It is my hope that through these discussions, we will be able to identify potential areas in which the Philippines and [...]
Suicide risk increases among NZ doctors
CRUSHING PRESSURE This file photo shows medical workers taking part in training for treating Covid-19 patients at a comprehensive hospital in Auckland, New Zealand on April 3, 2020. NEW ZEALAND MINISTRY OF HEALTH/HANDOUT VIA XINHUA WELLINGTON— Burnout, depression and anxiety are increasingly common among New Zealand doctors, which impair their ability to perform at home and at work, a common contributor to suicide risk, the New Zealand Medical Association (NZMA) said on Friday. Burnout has been documented to affect 45 percent in a consultant survey in one New Zealand hospital prior to Covid-19, and this is likely to have increased with the present frustrating work environment caused by the pandemic, according to an editorial by researchers of the University of Otago, published in the New Zealand Medical Journal. Overseas [...]
Obesity highest among Filipino and Japanese Americans – study
Hiro Mejia (L), a patient in the metabolic syndrome clinic, is helped up by Michael Witten, director of the Wellness Center at the annual run/walk for patients and their friends and families at The Children’s Hospital in Aurora, Colorado June 5, 2010. REUTERS/Rick Wilking Obesity rates among Filipino and Japanese Americans were the highest among Asian Americans, according to researchers from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Filipino obesity rate is at 28.7% and for Japanese, 26.7%, rates close to the 29.4% rate among whites but still lower than the 39.7% rate of obesity among Blacks. Researchers for the study, published in Annals of Internal Medicine on Oct. 4, adjusted the findings of the U.S. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which surveyed 70,000 Asian [...]
Paeng makes landfall in Camarines Sur; Signal No. 3 remains over two areas
On the forecast track, the center of PAENG will traverse the Bicol Peninsula until this noon before crossing the CALABARZON-Metro Manila-southern Central Luzon area this early afternoon through tomorrow early morning. SCREENSHOT Severe Tropical Storm Paeng crosses the southern tip of Catanduanes and makes landfall in Camarines Sur as Signal No. 3 remains over two areas, according to the latest Tropical Cyclone Update posted by PAGASA. The recent landfalls are: Virac, Catanduanes at 1:10 a.m. and Caramoan, Camarines Sur at 1:40 a.m. The center of Severe Tropical Storm Paeng was estimated based on all available data including those from Daet and Baler Doppler Weather Radars in the vicinity of Siruma, Camarines Sur packing maximum sustained winds of 95 kilometers per hour near the center, gustiness of up to [...]
PBBM inks EO allowing voluntary wearing of face masks indoors
MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos on Friday signed an executive order (EO) allowing the voluntary wearing of face masks in indoor settings. (File photo) Under EO 7, the wearing of face masks in indoor and outdoor settings shall be voluntary except in healthcare facilities, medical transport, and public transportation by land, air, or sea. The liberalization of the face mask mandate has been recommended by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) through its Resolution 3 (s. 2022). Mask-wearing is still encouraged for the elderly, individuals with comorbidities, immunocompromised persons, pregnant women, unvaccinated individuals, and symptomatic individuals, according to the EO. "A policy of voluntary wearing of face masks in both indoor and outdoor settings is a positive [...]
PHIVOLCS issues lahar advisory for Mayon Volcano due to Paeng rains
Due to the expected heavy to intense and at times torrential rain from Tropical Storm Paeng, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology issued a lahar advisory for Mayon Volcano. The PHIVOLCS warned that Paeng's rains could generate volcanic sediment flows or lahars, muddy streamflows, or muddy run-offs in rivers and drainage areas of Mayon. Communities in pre-determined zones of lahar and related hazards on the volcano were thus urged to be vigilant. "Prolonged and heavy rainfall may generate non-eruption lahars along river/stream channels draining the Mayon edifice," the PHIVOLCS said in a Facebook advisory. "Potential lahars and sediment laden streamflows may occur along the Miisi, Binaan, Anoling, Quirangay, Maninila, Masarawag, Muladbucad, Nasisi, Mabinit, Matan-ag, and Basud, Bantayan Channels in Albay Province." The PHIVOLCS added that Mayon lahars could [...]
Tropical Storm Paeng intensifies; Signal No. 2 in Metro Manila, 23 other areas
MANILA, Philippines — Tropical Storm Paeng (international name: Nalgae) slightly intensified as it continues to move west-northwestward and has prompted state meteorologists to raise Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) Number 2 in several parts of Luzon and the Visayas, including Metro Manila. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), in its 5:00 p.m. update, reported that Paeng’s new forecast track slightly dipped south, which means it may now hit the Bicol region and Quezon province. Pagasa added that Paeng was last spotted some 180 kilometers east of Catarman, Northern Samar, packing maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gustiness of up to 105 kph. It is forecast to cross Camarines Sur at around 2:00 a.m. Saturday. Pagasa expects Paeng to [...]
Henry Sy Jr., Elon Musk team up for PH satellite internet
SpaceX founder and Tesla CEO Elon Musk speaks on a screen during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, June 29, 2021. (File photo by NACHO DOCE / Reuters) MANILA, Philippines — Billionaire Henry Sy Jr. is launching a nationwide satellite broadband service through a pioneering venture with American tech mogul Elon Musk. Data Lake Inc., led by Sy and company chair Anthony Almeda, recently sealed an agreement with Musk’s Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX), owner of Starlink broadband satellite. This makes Data Lake the first Starlink integrator in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. “The Philippines is an archipelago, and connecting our country to the wider world often requires extensive infrastructure,” said Almeda. Sy is the eldest son of the late taipan Henry Sy Sr., founder of [...]
Woman arrested after attack on Jacinda Ardern’s office in Auckland
A hole was smashed in the office door and a large knife was found on the footpath near the New Zealand prime minister’s office, local media report A woman has been arrested after New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern’s office in Auckland was damaged in an attack on Thursday. Photograph: Steven Saphore/AFP/Getty Images A woman has been arrested in relation to an attack on the Auckland office of Jacinda Ardern while the New Zealand prime minister is away visiting Antarctica, local media reported. Police said the 57-year-old was arrested at a Coatesville house and was taken into custody, according to news outlet Stuff. On Thursday morning, police and fire officers attended Ardern’s electorate office in the central suburb of Morningside. Stuff reported a man was seen smashing a hole [...]
House panel OKs bill on dev’t of sustainable cities
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – A measure providing for the development of sustainable cities and communities in the country hurdled committee level at the House of Representatives. During the hearing on Wednesday, the House Committee on Housing and Urban Development approved the committee report on House Bill 71, or the proposed Sustainable Cities and Communities Act, which aims to fulfill the promise of economic and social inclusion of urbanization. Committee chair Jose Francisco Benitez, author of the bill, said urbanization provides resources and opportunities for employment, livelihood, services and innovation, driving rural-urban migration. Benitez said the proposed law would improve, bolster and strengthen the urban development and planning function of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the offices within the local government units (LGUs). “So that the [...]
US to give $70M cash aid to PH military to boost defense cooperation agreement
LET'S SHAKE ON IT Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson shake hands at the Mangove Forum on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022. Carlson disclosed that the US will give $70 million cash aid to the Philippine military spread over two years for infrastructure improvement, especially on the proposed expansion of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA THE United States government is poised to give a $70 million cash aid to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spread over two years for infrastructure improvements, US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson bared on Wednesday. The American envoy made the disclosure during the Mangrove Forum hosted by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), saying the financial assistance is mostly meant for [...]
More coffee farmers’ coops eyed in Sulu
ZAMBOANGA CITY, PHILIPPINES— Gov. Sakur Tan has urged local coffee farmers to form or join cooperatives and strengthen the industry by maintaining the high quality of their products. Tan, who met recently with members of the Federation of Sulu Coffee Producers Cooperative (FSCPC), said he would help them mechanize the farming process to speed up production from planting to harvesting to distribution, especially now that the province is exporting Arabica and Robusta coffee beans to Japan. A provincial government photo shows Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan reading a report by the Federation of Sulu Coffee Producers Cooperative. Sulu’s Arabica and Robusta, popularly known as ‘Kahawa Sug’ is now being exported to Japan. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO "We want to strengthen the local coffee industry by improving quality, increasing productivity, and training more [...]
Marcos: Govt on top of quake situation
This handout photo taken on October 26, 2022, courtesy from the Facebook page of parish priest Christian Edward Padua, shows a damaged church of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente in La Paz town, Abra province, north of Manila, a day after a 6.4-magnitude quake struck the province October 25. (Photo by Handout / Christian Edward Padua / AFP) (Update) PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday assured the public that the government is on top of the situation following the 6.4 magnitude earthquake that jolted Abra and nearby provinces late Tuesday. Speaking to reporters, the President said the government is focused on assisting affected individuals by providing them with food and temporary shelter. Citing reports he received, families are asking for tents as they fear for their safety due to possible [...]
OCTA: Metro Manila COVID-19 cases on downward trend
Metro Manila, Philippines —The OCTA Research Group said Wednesday that COVID-19 cases in the National Capital Region (NCR) are declining, with several indicators showing a downward trend. “New COVID-19 cases in the NCR have been decreasing since October 1, when the NCR had 1,719 new cases based on DOH data,” OCTA Research fellow Guido David said in a tweet. He noted that the region’s 7-day average of new infections decreased from 807 during the Oct. 12 to 18 period to 491 during the Oct. 19 to 25 period. Also, NCR’s one-week growth rate further declined to -39% from -7%. Metro Manila’s reproduction number -- or the number of people who can catch the virus from an infected person -- also decreased from 0.98 as of Oct. 15 to 0.74 [...]
Churches must help guide youth vs addiction, violence: VP Sara
44 YEARS. Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte greets members of the Jesus is Lord Church as they celebrate their 44th anniversary on Wednesday (Oct. 26, 2022). Duterte said she was barely five months old when Brother Eddie Villanueva established the JIL church. (Photo courtesy: Office of the Vice President) MDM09-1026 Churches must help guide youth vs. addiction, violence: VP Sara MANILA – Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte urged Church leaders on Wednesday to help the government in leading the youth to the "right path". In her speech during the celebration of the Jesus is Lord (JIL) church anniversary, Duterte stressed the need for a joint effort, considering the vulnerability of the youth against harmful influences. "I call upon the Church to help us guide our [...]
Food security crucial to economic recovery – Go
SEN. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go said that food security is crucial for the country to achieve inclusive economic recovery as he urged authorities to address other issues besetting the agriculture sector. "For me, whether President Marcos will stay as head of DA or he will appoint a full-fledged secretary, what is important is that we immediately provide a solution to the issue of soaring prices of farm products, lower farm gate prices and agricultural smuggling. Smuggling should stop," he said. "The most important issue now is food security. It's essential to our full and inclusive economic recovery. And we should immediately address the continuing price increases," he added. Go stressed that ordinary Filipinos, not smugglers, should reap the benefits of agriculture the most. He urged authorities to prioritize the [...]
New PM Rishi Sunak pledges to fix Britain’s many problems
New British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak waves in front of No. 10 Downing St. in London on Tuesday. | REUTERS LONDON/TOKYO – Rishi Sunak said on Tuesday he was not daunted by the scale of the challenge as he became Britain’s third prime minister in two months, pledging to restore trust, rebuild confidence and lead the country through an economic crisis. The 42-year-old former hedge fund boss, who has only been in elected politics for seven years, has been tasked with bringing an end to the infighting and feuding at Westminster that has horrified investors and alarmed international allies. “I fully appreciate how hard things are,” he said outside the prime minister’s residence at Downing Street where he shunned the normal tradition of standing with his family and political [...]
15 education-related bills get Senate panel nod
SEN. Francis “Chiz” Escudero. File Photo SEN. Francis "Chiz" Escudero, chairman of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education, presided over a hybrid hearing on various education-related measures on Tuesday. Of the 21 bills tackled, 15 measures were approved by the panel including House Bill (HB) 5001 or "Free College Examination Act" and Senate Bill (SB) 975 or the "Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act." Meanwhile, five proposals seeking the establishment of campuses in various areas were provisionally approved by the panel pending the submission of corresponding documents and comments showing approval of the respective college and university boards. However, the panel referred SB 1349, an act mandating the institutionalization of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program in public and private tertiary level [...]
Palace: Marcos wants renewed focus on general public health as diseases increase
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday called for a renewed focus on general public health concerns amid the increase in the number of diseases apart from COVID-19 in the country. According to the Office of the Press Secretary, Marcos made the call during his meeting with World Health Organization director general Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who gave him a courtesy call. “During their meeting, Marcos emphasized the necessity of finding a balance between the economy and people's safety during the meeting, citing the effectiveness of the government's COVID-19 vaccine campaign,” the OPS said. “The President also called for a renewed focus on general public health concerns as cases of other diseases increase,” it added. The President issued the remark following the rising cases of diseases in the country [...]
Ex-US Embassy officer pleads guilty in US to engaging in illicit sexual conduct in Philippines
A 63-year-old former officer of the US Embassy in Manila has pleaded guilty to engaging in illicit sexual conduct in the Philippines, the US Department of Justice has said. The US DOJ said Dean Cheves, who worked at the US Embassy in the Philippines from 2017 to 2022, is scheduled to be sentenced in January 2023. He is facing a maximum penalty of up to 30 years of imprisonment for each count against him. Citing court documents, the US DOJ said Cheves paid a minor to produce and send him sexually explicit images from December 2020 to March 2021. It said that Cheves in February 2021 engaged in sex acts on two separate occasions with another minor whom he met online, using his government-issued cell phone to film himself. [...]
Taiwan: No yielding to China’s aggression
TAIPEI: Taiwan won't back down in the face of "aggressive threats" from China, the self-ruling island's leader Tsai Ing-wen said on Tuesday, comparing growing pressure from Beijing to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. DEFIANT DELIVERY Taiwan’s leader Tsai Ing-wen delivers a speech during the 11th Global Assembly of World Movement for Democracy in the capital Taipei on Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022. AP PHOTO Her comments came days after the conclusion of the twice-a-decade congress of China's ruling Communist Party, during which it upped its long-standing threat to annex the island it considers its own territory by force, if necessary. The party added a line in its constitution on "resolutely opposing and deterring" Taiwan's independence and "resolutely implementing the policy of 'one country, two systems,'" the formula by which it [...]
DepEd, DOH urged to issue clearer COVID-19 ventilation policies
PHILIPPINES— A group of teachers, parents and students called on the Department of Education (DepEd) and Department of Health (DOH) on Monday to release better ventilation guidelines for the safe implementation of the five-day in-person classes in public schools starting November 2. Aral Pilipinas specifically called on the departments to issue evidence-based guidelines to improve the airflow in schools, considering that the coronavirus is an airborne disease. The group said that measures should be adopted considering the class size, room size, and class duration, among others. “Ito ay simpleng solusyon at napakalaki ng benepisyo o maitutulong para una, magtuloy-tuloy ang pagpasok ng mga bata sa eskwelahan dahil maiiwasan ‘yung transmission with improved ventilation. Tulad ng isinusulong ng Aral Pilipinas Coalition na magkaron ng tool katulad ng Safe Schools Calculator [...]
Australia’s No. 1 health insurer warns more patient data stolen in hack
FILE PHOTO: A woman walks past a branch of the Australian health insurer Medibank Private in Sydney October 20, 2014. REUTERS/David Gray Australia's biggest health insurer Medibank Private Ltd said it expected the number of customers affected by a massive data breach to grow, after it discovered policy records of a further 1,000 customers had been stolen. Medibank, which provides coverage to one-sixth of Australians, said last week an unidentified person had shown the company stolen personal information of a 100 customers, including medical diagnoses and procedures. On Tuesday, the company said it had received more files from the criminal, showing information including personal and health claims data of more patients as well as files with some Medibank and international student customer data. "Given the complexity of [...]
BFAR, sardines makers agree to help fishers, ensure stable supply
FISHERIES DEAL. Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Officer-in-Charge Demosthenes Escoto (2nd from left) holds a signed memorandum of agreement with Canned Sardines Association of the Philippines president Benjamin Sy (2nd from right) on Monday (Oct. 24, 2022). The partnership between the government and the private sector aims to help fishers and maintain a sufficient supply of canned sardines in the market. (PNA photo by Ben Briones) MANILA – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) signed Monday a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Canned Sardines Association of the Philippines (CSAP) to help local fishers and ensure a stable supply of canned sardines. This came after BFAR's consultation meeting with stakeholders, where several concerns were raised, including the looming canned sardines shortage. At a press [...]
FDA warns vs ‘toxic’ cough syrups
Food and Drug Administration The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) on Monday echoed an earlier warning by the World Health Organization (WHO) against four "substandard" cough syrups for children. The WHO tagged the cough syrups manufactured by India-based Maiden Pharmaceutical Ltd. under the brands Promethazine Oral Solution, Kofexmalin Baby Cough Syrup, Makoff Baby Cough Syrup and Magrip N Cold Syrup as unsafe for consumption because they contain "toxic ingredients." The warning was issued following the death of 66 children in the West African country of Gambia last September. In its advisory, the FDA said the four brands contain diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol which are considered as contaminants and toxic to humans. Consumption "may result in abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, inability to pass urine, headache, altered mental state and [...]
Japan, Australia ink security accord amid Beijing’s rise
FURRY FRIENDS Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida pose with koalas during their visit to Kings Park in the city of Perth, western Australia on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022. AFP PHOTO PERTH, AUSTRALIA— Japan and Australia on Saturday agreed to share sensitive intelligence and deepen their defense cooperation by signing a security pact in an apparent move to counter China's military ascent. Prime ministers Fumio Kishida and Anthony Albanese inked the accord in the western Australian city of Perth, revamping a dusty 15-year-old accord drafted when terrorism and weapons proliferation were the overriding concerns. Under the deal, the countries' defense forces will train together in northern Australia and "expand and strengthen cooperation across defense, intelligence sharing" and a raft of other areas, Australian officials [...]
Marcos to Pinoys: It’s time to return to pre-pandemic life
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos on Sunday enjoined Filipinos to get back to their normal lives before the Covid-19 pandemic hit, stressing that it is crucial to show the world that the Philippines is slowly getting back on its feet. “It is a good thing to remind people that the pandemic may have been difficult, the pandemic really put us through the wringer. But we are back,” Marcos said in a speech in Bacolod City during a luncheon just before he graced the culminating activity of the 43rd MassKara Festival. “The pandemic is fading away. We are learning to manage it and now it is time for us to all go back to work, to all go back to our normal lives, to remind ourselves of all [...]
Boris Johnson will run for UK leadership, minister claims
Boris Johnson, Rishi Sunak and Penny Mordaunt are believed to be contesting the British prime minister race. Photo: AFP Boris Johnson will enter the race to replace Liz Truss as British prime minister, Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton Harris told Sky News, saying the former leader had enough support from lawmakers to pass the 100-vote threshold. Asked if Johnson would run, Heaton Harris said: "Yes, I think so." "We do have the numbers... that's not an issue." Johnson and top competitor Rishi Sunak have reportedly held talks as they edge closer to the deadline for nominations in the contest to replace Liz Truss. Two separate sources told the BBC the meeting took place, but the Times newspaper reported this morning that the men did not strike a deal. [...]
Jacinda Ardern to visit Antarctica this week
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Photo: POOL/ NZME Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will visit Antarctica this week to see first-hand the critical research undertaken by New Zealanders on the ice. The visit, scheduled from Tuesday to Friday, marks the 65th anniversary of Scott Base - New Zealand's Antarctic home - and the first full season of Antarctic research after two years of Covid-19 disruption. Ardern is a well-known Antarctic history buff, with explorer Ernest Shackleton one of her personal heroes. "Antarctica is part of New Zealand's heritage and future and we're committed to its protection as a natural reserve for peace, science and co-operation," Ardern said in a statement. "Globally significant research is carried out by New Zealanders there, and New Zealand is invested in that long-term and essential research [...]
China’s Xi secures historic third term in office, unveils new top party officials
China's President Xi Jinping walks with members of the Chinese Communist Party's new Politburo Standing Committee, as they meet the media in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Oct 23, 2022. (Photo: WANG Zhao / AFP) BEIJING: Xi Jinping secured a historic third term as China's leader on Sunday (Oct 23) and promoted some of his closest Communist Party allies, cementing his position as the nation's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong. The Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party elected Xi as its general secretary for another five-year term, Xinhua reported, tilting the country decisively back towards one-man rule after decades of power-sharing among its elite. "I wish to thank the whole party sincerely for the trust you have placed in us," Xi told [...]
HK resident barred from hiring Filipinos after assaulting maid
Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople says the assaulted domestic worker has a new employer and is “doing well.” (INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO) MANILA, Philippines — A Hong Kong resident who was sentenced to jail for assaulting a Filipino maid will be barred from hiring domestic helpers from the Philippines for life, Migrant Workers Secretary Toots Ople said on Tuesday. Chow Ching-yee, 65, recently pleaded to a count of common assault against Ruby Funa Caman. Chow slapped Caman and pulled her hair pulled for refusing her order to massage her hands, the South China Morning Post reported on Monday. “I have instructed [Undersecretary] Bernard Olalia who is in charge of adjudication to ban HK employer Chow Ching-yee and her entire household from hiring a Filipino domestic worker for life,” Ople [...]
China-Taiwan: Beijing speeding up plans for unification, Blinken says
GETTY IMAGES Mr. Blinken was speaking at Stanford University in California on Tuesday China is pursuing unification with Taiwan "on a much faster timeline" than previously expected, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said. Beijing had decided the status quo was no longer acceptable, he said. In Sunday's speech opening the Communist party Congress in Beijing, President Xi Jinping refused to rule out using force to unify with Taiwan. China sees the self-ruled island as a part of its territory, but Taiwan sees itself as distinct from the mainland. Last month US President Joe Biden said US forces would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack - despite the official US policy of ambiguity on the issue. Speaking at an event at Stanford University on [...]
Canadian province sets mass hiring of PH health workers
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO MANILA, Philippines — Canada’s Saskatchewan province is seeking “to hire hundreds of health-care workers from the Philippines over the next two years.” The move is part of Saskatchewan’s “plan to recruit, train, incentivize and retain more health-care workers to strengthen the provincial healthcare system,” the Canadian Embassy on Tuesday said in a statement on Facebook. “We want to spread the word to health-care workers in the Philippines that our province is a place of great opportunity,” the embassy’s post quoted Saskatchewan’s Minister of Health Paul Merriman as saying. He said full-time jobs will be offered to “registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, continuing care assistants, and medical laboratory assistants.” “We would love to welcome into our friendly Saskatchewan communities healthcare workers from the Philippines who are interested [...]
France wants to explore PH waters in exchange for submarines
ISTANBUL – France has offered the Philippines two submarines in exchange for permission to explore the Southeast Asian nation’s “sovereign waters,” according to reports on Tuesday. “France offered to build two diesel-electric-powered submarines for the Philippines based on the design and standard of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in exchange for allowing it to explore the Philippines’ vast sovereign waters,” Filipino news website Rappler reported. The proposal came as the Philippines mulls continued modernization of its armed forces. However, Philippines Defense Officer-in-Charge Jose Faustino Jr. said such an offer was cumbersome. “The offer wasn’t as easy as it looked because the Philippines and France have no mutual defense agreement. It has to go through a constitutional process. We cannot just do that,” Faustino said, during a visit to Mati [...]
Offshore investors see New Zealand as attractive option – survey
A survey of 91 international investors found 70 percent expected mergers and acquisitions activity in New Zealand to increase over the next 12 months. Photo: RNZ / Simon Rogers Offshore investors are "overwhelmingly positive" towards investment in New Zealand with environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors key to their decision making. A report by the law firm Simpson Grierson, which surveyed 91 international investors, showed all of them were considering investing in Aotearoa in the next five years. It found 70 percent expected mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in New Zealand to increase over the next 12 months, and three-quarters said ESG factors had become more important than ever. "These results are a real testament to New Zealand's ability to develop great businesses and to the stable nature [...]
Russian military jet crashes in south west, at least four dead
An Su-34 aircraft from the military airfield of the Southern Military District, the ministry said. (Photo: AFP/Amer Almohibany) MOSCOW— A Russian military plane crashed on Monday (Oct 17) into a residential area of Yeysk, a town in southwestern Russia near the border with Ukraine, news agencies reported, citing the defence ministry. At least four people were killed in the incident and 25 have been taken to hospital, local authorities said on Telegram. The resulting fire that engulfed a nine-storey residential building has been contained and is almost extinguished, regional governor Veniamin Kondratyev said on Telegram. Oksana, a local resident who declined to give her last name, said the area had been cordoned off. "There could be an explosion. Everything is burning inside. There is smoke," she told AFP. [...]
NZ Covid-19 response: Vaccine mandates, MIQ and lockdowns set to be scrapped
The government plans to introduce new pandemic legislation to handle future events, Chris Hipkins says. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone The government is winding down some of its Covid-19 powers, saying they're no longer justified. Vaccine mandates, managed isolation and lockdowns will all be scrapped, leaving only a handful of public health measures. Also ending on Thursday is the requirement for travellers flying to New Zealand by air having to complete the online New Zealand Traveller Declaration. However, the seven-day case isolation period and mask-wearing requirements for visitors in some healthcare settings will remain for the time being as cases and hospitalisations tick up. "Today is a significant milestone," the acting Minister for Covid-19 Response, Chris Hipkins, said in a statement. "The government has been clear that the measures [...]
Marcos raises need for water department
Metro Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday renewed his push to establish a separate government body to manage the country’s water resources. In his meeting with top officials of Isabela province, Marcos reiterated his call to create the Department of Water Resources that will address the issues surrounding the "critical" fresh water supply. “Water is too important. Supply, our freshwater supply, is generally going down, and irrigation is not as widespread as it should be,” the President said. “The problem is too large that we need to have a team of experts directing the 20 different concerned agencies under one roof to ensure that they would manage our water resources efficiently,” he added Marcos also said the government would probe the country's "precarious" freshwater supply condition, [...]
China delays key economic data releases amid Communist party congress
Highly unusual delay comes as experts forecast slowing growth in world’s second largest economy in part due to zero-Covid policy China has postponed the release of closely-watched economic data as it holds a major meeting of Communist party leaders. Photograph: VCG/Getty Images China has said it will delay the release of economic growth figures, which had been due to be published as the country’s leadership gathers for a key meeting set to hand president Xi Jinping a historic third term in office. The announcement came one day before analysts had expected Beijing to publish some of its weakest quarterly growth figures since 2020 with the economy hobbled by Covid-19 restrictions and a real estate crisis. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said on Monday the release of growth figures [...]
Covid-19: NZ facing triple threat with new variants – expert
Microbiologist Siouxsie Wiles has urged people to continue taking measures against Covid-19, warning New Zealand is now in the same boat as the rest of the world and facing more mutations of the virus. It comes after new Omicron variant BQ1.1 was detected in New Zealand for the first time last week. "While we don't have the traffic light system any more, we have a lot of tools at our disposal," Wiles told Breakfast this morning. "It's really not something that we should be complacent about." Wiles explained BQ1.1 is just one of many new mutations the world is facing, saying "there are a bunch of them". "Essentially, because there are so many infections around the world, the virus is continuing to evolve and it's picking up more and [...]
NZ Inflation down slightly to 7.2%
Inflation has fallen marginally to 7.2%. Many economists predict the central bank will hike the rate for an eighth straight time. (Source: Breakfast) The latest consumer price index (CPI) figures were released on Tuesday by Stats NZ, and as forecast, the rate has fallen from July's 32-year high of 7.3%. The main driver for the 7.2 percent annual inflation to the September 2022 quarter was housing and household utilities due to rising prices for construction, rentals for housing, and local authority rates, Stats NZ said. Earlier this month, the Reserve Bank lifted the official cash rate to 3.5%. CPI rose 2.2% in the September quarter. Vegetable prices rose 24% in the last quarter, petrol prices went up 19% in the past year, while diesel was up 72%. "This [...]
DA vows nutritious, affordable food for Filipinos
MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) promised not just adequate supply, but also nutritious and affordable food for Filipinos, as the country joined the celebration of World Food Day on Monday. In a statement, the DA said it renews its commitment to ensuring every Filipino will have access to “safe and nutritious food.” “This year’s theme: “Leave NO ONE behind. Better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life” promote worldwide awareness and action for those who suffer from hunger and for the need to ensure healthy diets for all, leaving no one behind. Through this campaign, we renew our commitment to take part in actions,” the DA statement read. The Office of the Press Secretary (OPS) earlier reiterated President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s goal to provide [...]
NZ Govt to reopen skilled migrant and parent visa categories
The Government has announced it's reopening the skilled migrant and parent visa categories. The arrivals area at Auckland Airport. (Source: Getty) Immigration Minister Michael Wood announced the changes before members of the business and migrant community in Auckland today. He says it's part of plans reconnecting New Zealanders to the world. "As the world recovers from Covid-19, labour shortages continue to be a global symptom," Wood said. “We are listening closely to the concerns of businesses, many of whom have approval to hire migrants but are finding it difficult to recruit internationally in a constrained labour market." Wood said today's changes, which will "work in tandem with the immigration changes already made", is expected to help ease labour shortages and "ensure a competitive edge to attract talent to [...]
PH Govt allocates P12B for rice buffer program
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Tuesday doubled the allocated funds for the National Food Authority (NFA) buffer stocking program to ensure sufficient supply of the staple food in times of crisis. The budget for the program was raised from P7 billion in 2022 to P12 billion in 2023. Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman underscored the importance of ensuring food affordability, especially rice as the staple food for Filipinos, by increasing the budgetary allocation for the buffer stocking program. "This is also our strategic plan for food security in times of crisis since our country is prone to natural calamities," Pangandaman said. The increased budget allocation for the Buffer Stocking Program is in line with the Marcos administration's 8-point Socioeconomic Agenda, with food security as one of the [...]
Immigration NZ enlists ‘cyber mercenaries’ banned from Facebook to covertly collect data
Cobwebs is among seven foreign companies accused by tech giant Meta of setting up fake accounts to spy on almost 50,000 people, including journalists, human rights activists, politicians. Photo: 123RF This is the first of two stories looking at surveillance firm Cobwebs Technologies' work for the New Zealand government. The government is working with an Israeli-born surveillance firm named among a group of "cyber mercenaries" and kicked off Facebook for spying on people. It is keeping most of the operations with Cobwebs Technologies secret, but they include Immigration NZ. Cobwebs is among seven foreign companies accused in late 2021 by tech giant Meta of setting up fake accounts to spy on almost 50,000 people, including journalists, human rights activists, politicians and others in more than 100 countries. Meta, formerly [...]
Biden signals rethink over Saudi ties amid anger at cuts in oil output
Moves by Opec+ to reduce production seen as siding with Putin over the US just as midterms loom Joe Biden with Mohammed bin Salman during a visit to Saudi Arabia in July. Photograph: Bandar Algaloud/Reuters The Biden administration has said it is ready to consider tough new measures against Saudi Arabia after its decision last week to side with Vladimir Putin and cut oil production. Observers said the move signalled a dramatic abandonment of the US president’s recent attempts to seek a rapprochement with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and casts doubt over the future of the US-Saudi security relationship. “The president believes that we should review the bilateral relationship with Saudi Arabia and take a look to see if that relationship is where it needs to be [...]
‘Govt to defend Pinoy fishing rights in WPS’
Filipino fishermen were spotted over Bajo de Masinloc during the aerial surveillance of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Photo from Philippine Coast Guard The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday said the government will "consistently protect and promote" fishing rights of Filipinos in the South China Sea or West Philippine Sea, in both Philippine territorial waters and in its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Spratly Islands in the South China Sea (SCS) — believed to be rich in oil and mineral deposits — are claimed in whole or in part by China, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam and the Philippines. "This should be the priority over the interest of other coastal states or SCS claimants," the DFA said through its spokesman Ma. Teresita Daza. Daza said the United Nations [...]
Zelenskiy asks G7 for monitoring of Ukraine’s border with Belarus
Ukrainian president also asks for more air defence systems after new wave of Russian missile strikes Ukrainian emergency services battle a fire following missile attacks on Zaporizhzhia.Photograph: State Emergency Service Of Ukrai/EPAUkraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, has asked G7 leaders to supply more air defence systems and for an international monitoring mission on the Belarusian border, as Russia continued to attack key infrastructure in Ukraine with a new wave of missile strikes on Tuesday. Zelenskiy’s comments came amid warnings from the UN and some Natocountries that Moscow may be committing a war crime with its continuing deadly blitz on civilian targets. Warning that the Russian president “still has room for further escalation”, Zelenskiy added that the prompt supply of more air defence systems would accelerate the end of [...]
Chinese Embassy: PH on tourist blacklist is ‘misinformation’
Metro Manila, Philippines— The Chinese Embassy late Tuesday denied Senate President Migz Zubiri’s earlier announcement that the country is on the tourist blacklist of China. “The report of ‘tourist blacklist’ is misinformation. China has not placed the Philippines on its blacklist for tourism,” the Chinese embassy said in a statement sent to reporters. The embassy released the statement after Zubiri quoted Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian saying that the country was on a blacklist because of issues hounding Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs). "Because of the problem of POGO, the Philippines now is blacklisted and tourists now are discouraged to go to the Philippines," Zubiri on the same day told a Senate hearing, citing information from a meeting with the ambassador. The Chinese Ambassador also later on [...]
9 of 10 Filipinos consider fake news a problem
INQUIRER.net stock images MANILA, Philippines — Close to 90 percent of adult Filipinos believe fake news is a problem, a sentiment reflected nationwide and across all socioeconomic classes, according to a recent Pulse Asia Research survey that also pointed to social media “influencers” and journalists as the top culprits. The Sept. 17-21 survey released on Tuesday said a majority (58 percent) of Filipinos nationwide see bloggers and vloggers—the social media influencers—as responsible for “spreading false information” about government and politics. They were followed by journalists (40 percent), national politicians (37 percent), local politicians (30 percent), leaders of civic or nongovernmental organizations (15 percent), businessmen (11 percent) and academics (4 percent). For a media scholar, the survey indicated that the Philippine press had “trust issues and credibility issues” at a [...]
OVP lists Sara Duterte’s achievements in first 100 days
Vice President Sara Duterte has provided medical and burial assistance, free rides, and school supplies in her first 100 days in office, among her achievements, her office says. DANNY PATA/File photo The Office of Vice President Sara Duterte on Saturday listed their accomplishments in the first 100 days of the Marcos administration. In a statement, the OVP said it has processed a total of P134,376,764.95 in the medical and burial assistance program since Sara assumed office on July 1. Of the said amount, a total of P124,579,964.95 and P9,796,800 have already been processed for medical aid and burial assistance, respectively. A total of 13,315 recipients were served in all seven OVP satellite offices and OVP main office as of October 5. The OVP said the medical and burial [...]
‘We are just starting’: VP Sara’s ‘First 100 days of Firsts’
MANDALUYONG CITY -- Vice President Sara Duterte has made several “historic firsts” in just 100 days following her assumption of office. These firsts, she said, “would not only significantly change the way Filipinos look at the Office of the Vice President — but most importantly — would strengthen its mandate and enable the Office to serve more and more Filipinos across the country.” Duterte, in a 14-minute video report released in time for her first 100 days in office, said that for the first time in the history of the Office of the Vice Philippines (OVP), satellite offices were established in key areas across the country. Another first was the establishment of the Disaster Operations Center and the planned permanent residence for future Vice Presidents of the Philippines. The [...]
Bongbong Marcos signs SIM Card Registration Act
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday signed the SIM Card Registration Act, the first law he signed as the country’s chief executive. The SIM Card Registration Act, Republic Act No. 11934, highlights the following: Before selling SIM cards, telco companies and direct sellers are required to ask for a valid identification document. Registering a SIM card with false or fictitious information, using fictitious identities, or carrying out fraudulent activities will be subject to appropriate penalties. In case of a subpoena or court order, telcos must give out SIM card owners’ full names and addresses. People with SIM cards already need to register with telcos within a certain time frame. SIM cards will be deactivated if you don’t. Subscriber SIM cards must be kept on file [...]
Marcos, De Lima talk on detention facility transfer offer — lawyer
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. personally asked former Sen. Leila de Lima her preferred detention options after the hostage-taking inside a facility at the national police headquarters, her legal counsel said Monday. Filibon Tacardon told CNN Philippines Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos called the president on Sunday. Abalos was at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City to visit De Lima after the incident, and this was when the conversation took place. "Nakapag-usap si Senator Leila de Lima at si President Marcos over the phone kung saan naikuwento ni Senator de Lima ang nangyari at ang sabi nga ni President Marcos (was), 'Tell me what you want,' sabi nga niya. Pagkatapos non, nag-alok na si Secretary Abalos ngpossibility ng transfer. Kaya lang at [...]
India facing a pandemic of antibiotics-resistant superbugs
At the 1,000-bed not-for-profit Kasturba Hospital in the western Indian state of Maharashtra, doctors are grappling with a rash of antibiotic-resistant "superbug infections". MANSI THAPLIYAL The emergence of a multidrug-resistant pathogen which attacks the lungs of patients in critical care is worrying doctors This happens when bacteria change over time and become resistant to drugs that are supposed to defeat them and cure the infections they cause. Such resistance directly caused 1.27 million deaths worldwide in 2019, according to The Lancet, a medical journal. Antibiotics - which are considered to be the first line of defence against severe infections - did not work on most of these cases. India is one of the countries worst hit by what doctors call "antimicrobial resistance" - antibiotic-resistant neonatal infections alone [...]
PH Army reaffirms ties with Aussie counterpart, 3 others
MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) reinforced its professional ties with its Australian Army counterpart along with three other Armies during the International Land Defence Exposition in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia held from Oct. 4 to 6. PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. met with Australian Army chief Lt. Gen. Simon Stuart to reaffirm ties between the two ground forces. "Lt. Gen. Brawner and Lt. Gen. Stuart discussed sustaining and strengthening the partnership of both armies, particularly the conduct of bilateral training exercises aimed at enhancing interoperability and bolstering collective resolve, teamwork, mutual learning," Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement over the weekend. Three agreements underpin the Philippine-Australia bilateral defense ties—the 1995 Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperative Defense Activities; the Philippines-Australia Status of Visiting Forces Agreement; [...]
PH, US to have 496 defense, security engagements in 2023
MANILA – The Philippines and the United States will have 496 defense and security engagements in 2023 as the world's coronavirus situation continues to improve. (File photo) "For CY 2023 - 496 (274 MDB(Mutual Defense Board) and 222 SEB (Security Engagement Board)," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro said in a message to reporters Sunday. This is bigger than this year's 461 defense and security engagements, which can be broken down into 214 MDB and 247 SEB. Bacarro said the 461 engagements posted for 2022 is also significantly higher than the 353 in 2021 which can be broken down into 197 MBD and 156 SEB. The AFP chief attributed the relatively low number of US military engagements [...]
NIA vows to boost PH irrigation vs. hunger, poverty
WATER IS LIFE. Irrigation Administrator Benny Antiporda joins the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty Kumustahan National Performance Review Workshop on Monday (Oct. 10, 2022). In his speech, Antiporda underscored the value of water in everyone's lives, hence their vow to boost the irrigation sector, with an aim to help address hunger and poverty in the country. (Photo courtesy: NIA) MANILA – The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) vowed Monday to further boost the country’s irrigation against hunger and poverty. In the hybrid event, NIA chief Benny Antiporda underscored how vital water is in the lives of Filipinos, particularly in relation to the government’s efforts on the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP). “Life starts with us, in water. The food starts from water, without [...]
Russia launches biggest air strikes since start of Ukraine war
A heavily damaged building in Kyiv after Russian missile strikes on Monday. Photo: AFP / Sergei Supinsky Russia rained cruise missiles on busy Ukrainian cities, knocking out power and heat in its most widespread air attacks since the start of the war. Missiles tore into busy intersections, parks and tourist sites in the centre of the capital Kyiv on Monday. Explosions were also reported in Lviv, Ternopil and Zhytomyr in western Ukraine, Dnipro and Kremenchuk in central Ukraine, Zaporizhzhia in the south and Kharkiv in the east. Ukrainian officials said at least 11 people were killed and scores injured, with swathes of the country left without power. Thousands of residents raced to bomb shelters as air raid sirens rang out through the day. The barrage of dozens of cruise [...]
Mixed reaction to election of Wayne Brown as new Auckland mayor: ‘There was a very strong negative vote’
Auckland mayoral incumbent Wayne Brown and his wife Toni talking to a supporter. Photo: RNZ / Lucy Xia The city has spoken - or 30 percent of it has - and Wayne Brown has been voted the next mayor of Auckland. Brown claimed the win with a staggering 54,000 votes over nearest rival, the Labour-endorsed Efeso Collins. Auckland City Council said Brown was leading the race with 144,619 votes ahead of Collins by 54,808 votes. The progress results reflect about 90 percent of the votes. The 76-year-old former North Shore mayor takes the chains from Phil Goff, who is resigning after two terms in office. Sitting on the centre right, Brown ran a campaign based on financial responsibility and accountability, making a particular target of Auckland Transport. His [...]
Massive blast cripples parts of Crimea-Russia bridge, in blow to Putin’s war effort
In a major blow for Russian President Vladimir Putin, a huge explosion has severely damaged the only bridge connecting the annexed Crimean peninsula with the Russian mainland, paralyzing a key supply route for Moscow's faltering war in Ukraine. The blast early Saturday caused parts of the Kerch Strait road and rail bridge -- opened by Putin himself in 2018 -- to collapse, images and video from the scene showed. At least three people were killed in the explosion, Russian officials said, citing preliminary information. The exact cause of the blast at Europe's longest bridge is yet to be confirmed. Russian officials said a truck exploded, causing Crimea-bound sections of the road part of the bridge to collapse. A subsequent fire engulfed a train of fuel tanks on a separate, [...]
Marcos: Clear policy agenda over 6 years
THROUGH THE BARRICADE Policemen block rallyists from marching to the Mendiola Peace Arch in Manila to mark the first 100 days of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration on Saturday, Oct. 8, 2022. Marcos and running mate Sara Duterte won by a landslide in the May 2022 elections on a platform of unity. PHOTO BY RENE H. DILAN IN his first 100 days as president, Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. believes that he has successfully laid out a clear policy agenda for his six-year term in office that focuses on health, fiscal management and turning the long-neglected agricultural sector into an engine of growth. The Philippines is currently beset with numerous challenges, from rising inflation to worrying levels of public debt and a bruised peso, but Marcos, who won the presidency [...]
Let’s protect our forest – DENR
TUGUEGARAO CITY: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region 2 has appealed to the public to protect the woodlands following the recent forest fire in Bugatay, Peñablanca, Cagayan. In a media interview on Friday, Regional Executive Director Gwendolyn Bambalan of DENR-Cagayan Valley said, according to the investigation report, there were no traces of kaingin or forest clearing found within the area. "The fire was possibly due to a thrown cigarette butt in the area," she claimed. The investigation spearheaded by the PENR Sub-Office of Cagayan revealed that the incident took place within the National Greening Program forest plantation of Bugatay Upland Farmers Association (BUFA) in Peñablanca town. Over 20,000 narra, tuai and tindalo indigenous species planted in 12 hectares and the 2.5 hectares adjacent grasslands were [...]
Mourners for slain toddlers gather at Thai temple
MOURNING IN THE MORNING A mother speaks to her child through the coffin, a victim of Thursday’s day care massacre inside Wat Rat Samakee temple in the town of Uthai Sawan, northeastern Thailand on Saturday, Oct. 8, 2022. AP PHOTO UTHAI SAWAN, Thailand: Grief-stricken families prayed on Saturday morning at a Buddhist temple filled with children's keepsakes, flowers and photos of the smiling toddlers who were slain as they napped on blankets at a day care center in northeastern Thailand. Coffins containing the 36 killed, 24 of them children and most of them preschoolers, were released on Friday and placed inside Wat Rat Samakee and two other temples in the town nestled among rice paddies in one of Thailand's poorest regions. Several mourners stayed at Wat Rat Samakee overnight [...]
Indian workers rescued from digital job scams in Southeast Asia
Minister says 130 Indians who were forced to work in cyber- scams in Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia have been freed. Indian workers rescued after they were lured by agents to fake job opportunities in the information technology sector in Thailand arrive at the airport in Chennai, India, on Wednesday, October 5, 2022 [Ministry of External Affairs via AP] India’s government says it has rescued about 130 Indians who were forced to work in Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia after they were lured by agents who had offered well-paying job opportunities in the information technology sector that turned out to be fake. Arindam Bagchi, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, said on Friday the rescued Indian workers had been held captive and forced to commit cyber-fraud for companies engaged in digital [...]
China lashes out at latest US export controls on chips
American and Chinese flags at the 2022 Winter Olympics, Feb 2, 2022, in Zhangjiakou, China. (File photo: AP/Kiichiro Sato) BEIJING: China on Saturday (Oct 8) criticised the latest decision by the United States to tighten export controls that would make it harder for China to obtain and manufacture advanced computing chips, calling it a violation of international economic and trade rules that will “isolate and backfire” on the US. “Out of the need to maintain its sci-tech hegemony, the US abuses export control measures to maliciously block and suppress Chinese companies,” said Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning. “It will not only damage the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies, but also affect American companies’ interests,” she said. Mao also said that the US “weaponisation and politicisation” [...]
Firefighters continue to battle bushfire near Queenstown
Firefighters have returned to battle a massive bushfire on the slopes of Mt Crichton today. One of six helicopters working to contain the fire burning in steep terrain on Mt Crichton. (Source: Supplied / FENZ) Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) said six helicopters and seven ground crews are on the scene today. FENZ Incident Controller Mark Mawhinney said weather conditions had been favourable overnight, but winds are set to pick up throughout the day. "Firefighting efforts are concentrating on containing the fire to the 25 Mile Creek catchment and creating a blacked out perimeter, to reduce the risk of a breakout later in the day," Mawhinney said. Most of the damage has been on Mt Creighton Station with approximately 200 hectares of manuka and tussock grassland burnt. Fire [...]
More than 200 pilot whales euthanised after stranding on Chatham Islands
It is difficult to stage whale rescues in Chatham Islands due to the waters shark population and the low number of people there (file picture). Photo: Sam Wild More than 200 pilot whales that stranded on the Chatham Islands yesterday have died or had to be put euthanised. Project Jonah said it was heartbroken to hear of the mass stranding. The Chatham Islands is known for great white sharks, remote beaches, and a resident population of less than 800 people, making it challenging to deal with strandings, Project Jonah said in a social media post. Project Jonah said those factors meant refloating the whales that were still alive was not an option.
PH cholera cases on the rise, death toll reaches 32
Metro Manila, Philippines— Cholera cases in the Philippines rose to 3,681 as of Sept. 17, a more than twofold increase from the same period last year, Department of Health (DOH) data released Friday showed. The death toll also reached 32, with one new fatality recorded. The DOH reported 340 new cases from Aug. 21 to Sept. 17, mostly from Eastern Visayas (276), Central Luzon (20), and Western Visayas (15). The regions of Central Luzon, Western and Eastern Visayas, and Zamboanga Peninsula have exceeded the epidemic threshold, meaning there are more cases this year compared to the same period in 2021. Cholera is a water-borne disease acquired by drinking water or eating food contaminated with cholera bacteria. It can cause acute watery diarrhea with severe dehydration, which could lead to death [...]
Marcos must face key issues ‘head-on’
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Contributed PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. must "battle head-on" urgent national concerns, as he marks his first 100 days in office, a political analyst said Friday. Dr. Froilan Calilung, who teaches political science at the University of Santo Tomas, made the observation after the Marcos administration earned favorable ratings on 11 of the 13 key issues facing the country in the latest Pulse Asia survey. Speaking during a public briefing, Calilung said that overall, the President "did well" in his first three months, getting low marks only in tackling inflation, unemployment and low wages. The survey results showed "a very good indication as to what and how the people would actually try to see his leadership as of the moment," he said. "I would [...]
World Bank sees weak growth in 2023 for eastern Europe, central Asia
FILE PHOTO: A participant stands near a logo of World Bank at the International Monetary Fund - World Bank Annual Meeting 2018 in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia, October 12, 2018. REUTERS/Johannes P. Christo/File Photo WASHINGTON— The World Bank said on Tuesday (Oct 4) that countries in eastern Europe and Central Asia will return to weak growth in 2023, but warned that a cut-off of Russian energy to the European Union would tip them into recession next year. In updated economic forecasts, the World Bank said collective GDP in its Europe and Central Asia region was now expected to contract 0.2 per cent in 2022 and grow by 0.3 per cent in 2023 due to spillover effects from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The 2022 forecast is a marked improvement [...]
Nobel Prize in Physics awarded to three scientists
Secretary General of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences Hans Ellegren and members of the Nobel Committee for Physics, Eva Olsson and Thors Hans Hansson, announce the winners of the 2022 Nobel Prize in Physics [Jonas Ekstromer/TT News Agency via Reuters] Alain Aspect of France, John Clauser of the United States and Austria’s Anton Zeilinger have won the 2022 Nobel Prize in Physics for “experiments with entangled photons, establishing the violation of Bell inequalities and pioneering quantum information science”, the award-giving body said on Tuesday. Their discoveries have significant applications, for example, in the field of encryption. “Quantum information science is a vibrant and rapidly developing field,” said Eva Olsson, a member of the Nobel committee. “It has broad and potential implications in areas such as secure information transfer, [...]
Japan orders Russian consul to leave in tit-for-tat response
Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi announces the deportation of Russian consuls at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo in Tuesday. | KYODO Japan on Tuesday ordered a Russian consul based in northern Japan to leave the country within six days, Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said, in retaliation for Moscow's expulsion of a Japanese diplomat last month. Hayashi told reporters that his ministry declared the consul at the Russian Consulate General in Sapporo persona non grata after Russia's Federal Security Service detained a Japanese consul in Vladivostok for a few hours for alleged espionage and expelled him from the country. Japan says the consul, Tatsunori Motoki, who returned home last week after being declared persona non grata by the Russian Foreign Ministry, had not committed any illegal act. Hayashi has [...]
Philippines’ measles, rubella cases now 153% higher year-on-year at 450
A total of 450 measles and rubella cases were recorded from January 1 to September 17, 2022, which was 153% higher than those recorded during the same period last year, the Department of Health (DOH) said Wednesday. Based on the DOH’s national measles and rubella data as of September 17, there were only 178 cases logged from January 1 to September 17, 2021. Cumulatively, most of the measles and rubella cases this year or 16% were reported in Calabarzon at 70. It was followed by Central Visayas with 61 cases (14%), and the National Capital Region (NCR) with 47 cases (10%). From August 21 to September 17, 2022 alone, 68 measles and rubella cases were reported, most of which from Calabarzon with 16 cases or 24%. This was followed [...]
Iranian schoolgirls take up battle cry as protests continue
As country mourns teenager killed in demonstrations, video shows how female-led protests have spread to the classroom An image from social media which is claimed to show Iranian schoolchildren expressing dissatisfaction towards the country's leadership. Photograph: Twitter High school girls have become the latest Iranians to join anti-government protests in large numbers, as the country mourned a teenager killed in the first days of protests. Nika Shahkarami, who lived in Tehran and would have turned 17 on Sunday, vanished in September. Her family found her body in a detention centre’s morgue 10 days later, BBC Persian reported. On Tuesday, President Ebrahim Raisi called for unity against the protests even as they continued to grow, bringing together Iranians across ethnic and class divides, despite the government crackdown. He repeated the [...]
PH inflation rises to 6.9% in September
Metro Manila— Inflation sped to 6.9% in September from 6.3% in August with food and energy costs mainly driving the increase in commodity prices, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Wednesday. The recent rate is faster than the 4.2% print logged in the same month last year and falls within the 6.6-7.4% range seen by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for September. Year-to-date inflation now stands at 5.1%, still above the central bank’s 2-4% target band for 2022. The BSP said the increase in electricity rates and prices of key food items, along with the peso’s weak performance, may have driven inflation in September.
US defence chief Austin sees no ‘imminent invasion’ of Taiwan by China
A Chinese military jet flies over Pingtan island, one of China's closest points to Taiwan, on Aug 6, 2022. PHOTO: AFP WASHINGTON - United States Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Sunday that he sees no imminent invasion of Taiwan by China, but said China was trying to establish a "new normal" with its military activities around the island. A visit to Taiwan early in August by US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi enraged China, which subsequently launched military drills near the island. These drills have continued, although on a much reduced scale. "I don't see an imminent invasion," Mr Austin said in an interview broadcast on CNN. "What we do see is China moving to establish what we would call a new normal. Increased activity - we saw [...]
Australia says nuclear submarine plan on track to be unveiled in early 2023
Defence Minister Richard Marles said Australia is seeking to "minimise and plug any capability gap". PHOTO: AFP CANBERRA - Australia is on track to make an announcement "in the first part of next year", on the path to acquiring nuclear-powered submarines under its project with the United States and Britain, said Defence Minister Richard Marles. "You don't build a nuclear-powered submarine quickly, and so the question of when we would be able to have the first submarine in the water is one that is very pertinent to us," Mr Marles said on Saturday at a joint news conference with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin after talks in Honolulu. Australia, Britain and the US announced a security agreement known as Aukus on Sept 15, 2021, pledging to cooperate more closely [...]
DepEd promotes scholarship opportunities for Filipino students, youth
(Photo from DepEd Philippines Facebook page) On its Facebook page, DepEd posted announcements for scholarships that Filipino learners can apply for such as the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program and the “Iskolar ni Juan.” DepEd said that the YES Program in the Philippines is now accepting applications for program cycle 2023-2024. The YES program is a “cultural exchange program” funded by the United States (US) Department of State through the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This, DepEd said, provides “scholarships for high school students to spend up to one academic year” in the US. Established in October 2002, YES Program recognizes the importance of youth exchange as a “key component” to building bridges between citizens of the US and countries around the world —- particularly those [...]
PBBM reinforced talks, encouraged investments in 2nd trip to SG
MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. returned to Singapore over the weekend to reinforce talks during his recent state visit there and encouraged anew investments in the country, a Palace official said Monday. REAFFIRMING TIES. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (center) poses for a photo opportunity with Singaporean Foreign Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan (left) and Singaporean Manpower Minister Tan See Leng (2nd from left) on the sidelines of the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday (Oct. 2, 2022). Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles said Marcos' second trip to the city-state was aimed at reinforcing talks and encouraging investments following his recent state visit in September. (Photo courtesy of Singaporean Manpower Minister Tan See Leng) Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles, in her official Facebook page, shared a screenshot of [...]
Online cryptocurrency exchange Binance registers in New Zealand
Binance's existing customers will now access its marketplace through the New Zealand platform, where they can trade cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens. File image Photo: 123RF The world's largest online cryptocurrency exchange has launched a New Zealand version of its marketplace to help shape future industry regulation. Binance, which is ranked the largest exchange of its kind in the world, has registered as a financial services provider with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. Local investors could already access Binance before it registered, and the decision meant the company would have to comply with local regulations. Binance NZ will join an external disputes resolution scheme, carry out customer due-diligence, adhere to local anti-money laundering rules and share customer information with the tax department. General manager Ben Rose told [...]
Ukraine war: NZ Government mulling imposing wider sanctions on Russia
While expulsion of Russian diplomats is "not off the table", Jacinda Ardern says it removes the chance for direct dialogue. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone The government is considering how to further tighten restrictions on exports and imports to Russia. The Russian ambassador will be called in again to hear New Zealand's opposition to the country's latest actions in Ukraine. On Friday Russian President Vladimir Putin proclaimed the annexation of four regions of Ukraine, during a pomp-filled Kremlin ceremony, promising Moscow would triumph in its "special military operation" against Kyiv. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand does not recognise these illegal attempts to change Ukraine's borders, and the referenda in Russian-held Ukrainian territories were a sham. Ardern told Morning Report the government was primarily looking at further [...]
PBBM, FFCCCII tackle economic recovery plans
BOOSTING THE ECONOMY. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (right) meets with members of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Friday (Sept. 30, 2022) to discuss ways to speed up the country’s economic recovery from the pandemic. During the meeting, the FFCCCII pitched to Marcos its ideas to realize the administration’s bid to revitalize and transform the economy. (Photo from PBBM’s official Facebook page) MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday discussed with a group of Filipino-Chinese business leaders the goals and initiatives to fast-track the recovery of the Philippine economy amid the prevailing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. In a Facebook post on Saturday, Marcos shared that he met with the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of [...]
Dozens killed in stampede at Indonesia football match, police say
Police fire tear gas after fans invade pitch in East Java, triggering a stampede that killed more than 100 people. This picture taken on October 1, 2022 shows security personnel (lower) on the pitch at Kanjuruhan stadium in Malang, East Java [AFP] Indonesian police say at least 129 people have been killed and dozens injured after a crowd stampede during a riot at a football match in the province of East Java. In a statement on Sunday, police said supporters of Arema FC stormed the pitch at a stadium in the eastern city of Malang after their team lost 3-2 to Persebaya Surabaya on Saturday night. Police said they tried to persuade fans to return to the stands and fired tear gas to control “riots” after two officers [...]
Russia’s consulate in New York vandalized in apparent protest
The Russian consulate in New York after it was vandalized with spray paint on 30 September.Photograph: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images The Russian consulate in New York has been vandalized with red spray paint, in an apparent protest against Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. Officers said they responded to an emergency call just after 1.30am on Friday reporting that paint had been sprayed across the facade of the consulate on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. A police spokesperson said the investigation is ongoing into the potential “bias incident” and no arrests have been made. Rosie Morse, a retiree who lives in the neighborhood near the consulate, said the spray paint “looks like artwork”. “But the meaning is to express our feeling about Putin, and I can’t say that I don’t agree,” [...]
PDP Laban elects new officers
Photo from PDP Laban Facebook page PDP Laban elected new set of officers during their 40th Anniversary Celebration and National Assembly on Thursday (September 29,2022). Former President Rodrigo Duterte, the party’s chairman, administered the oath of office. The newly elected officers are: • Vice chairman: Alfonso Cusi • President: Palawan 2nd District Rep. Jose Alvarez • Executive Vice President: Sen. Robin Padilla • VP for NCR: Rep. Edwin Olivarez • VP for Luzon: Sen. Francis Tolentino • VP for Visayas: Cebu City Mayor Mike Rama • VP for Mindanao: Sen. Bato dela Rosa • Secretary General: Atty. Melvin Matibag • Treasurer: Deputy Speaker Rep. Dong Gonzales • Auditor: Bong Go •Membership Committee Chairperson – Astra Pimentel •Legal [...]
US, Philippine defense chiefs discuss strengthening MDT commitments
Top defense officials of the Philippines and the United States on Friday (Manila time) discussed strengthening their commitments to the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the two countries. The discussion took place during a meeting between US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III and Philippine Defense officer-in-charge Jose Faustino Jr. at the US Indo-Pacific Command in Honolulu, Hawaii. “We discussed several priority areas for the alliance including strengthening our MDT commitments and enhancing maritime cooperation, and building on our mutual defense posture, and improving interoperability and information sharing,” Austin said in a press conference. Under the MDT, the two countries agreed that an armed attack in the Pacific Area on either the Philippines or the US would be dangerous and that they would act to meet the common dangers in [...]
Typhoon Karding farm damage to jack up rice, vegetable prices: Department of Agriculture
Karding has wiped out P2.02 billion worth of agricultural produce, with the rice sector accounting for nearly 82 per cent of the recorded damage. UNDER WATER Vast tracts of farms are submerged by flood in this photo taken during President Marcos’ aerial inspection of provinces ravaged by Supertyphoon “Karding.” —KJ ROSALES/PPA POOL MANILA — Consumers should brace for an increase of as much as 20 percent in the retail prices of rice and vegetables after Super Typhoon “Karding” (international name: Noru) wreaked havoc on the country’s farm sector, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said on Thursday. Agriculture Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban said they were expecting a spike of 15 to 20 percent in prices of food items because the rice-producing region of Central Luzon suffered the brunt of [...]
Australia ends Covid isolation rule as it moves beyond ’emergency phase’
GETTY IMAGES Australia had some of the world's longest and strictest lockdowns Australia has said it will end mandatory Covid isolation requirements from next month. Currently anyone who tests positive to the virus must isolate for five days, but that will end from 14 October. At times nicknamed "Fortress Australia", the country has had some of the strictest restrictions in the world since the pandemic began. Australia's chief medical officer, Paul Kelly, said the "emergency phase" of its response was probably over. But Prof Kelly said the decision "does not in any way suggest that the pandemic is finished". Mandatory isolation had been one of the few restrictions remaining. Australia continues to record about 5,500 virus cases each day, official figures show. It is one of the world's most [...]
PLA praises joint military exercises in Russia
In this undated photo, Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense, addresses a press conference. (PHOTO / MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEFENCE, CHINA) BEIJING – The People’s Liberation Army has “fully exercised its ability to carry out overseas military operations” through its participation in the Russian-organized Vostok-2022 (East-2022) military drills, a Defense Ministry spokesman said on Thursday. The PLA has “made full use of an unfamiliar complex environment” and meticulously organized fully functional forces, including command, combat and support, in accordance with various demands, said Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, a spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense. “The army has carefully organized cross-border delivery, combat planning and field operation support, comprehensively enhancing its ability to conduct military action overseas,” he added. The PLA has “made [...]
Vladimir Putin recognises independence of two Ukraine regions
Policemen walk at Red Square in Moscow, Russia, Thursday on Sep 29, 2022. (Photo: AP/Alexander Zemlianichenko) MOSCOW— Russian President Vladimir Putin has recognised the independence of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, according to presidential decrees issued late Thursday (Sep 29), on the eve of Russia finalising their annexation. "I order the recognition of the state sovereignty and independence" of the regions of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, located in southern Ukraine, Putin said in the decrees, as Russia prepares to formalise the annexation of the two regions, along with Donetsk and Lugansk on Friday. Moscow has said it will annex four occupied regions of Ukraine at a grand ceremony in the Kremlin on Friday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the annexation of the areas would be formalised [...]
US makes Pacific Islands pledge in bid to counter China
CHIP SOMODEVILLA It is the first time that Pacific leaders have been invited for an in-person summit The US has struck a partnership agreement with Pacific island nations amid concern in Washington over growing Chinese influence. It also announced $810m (£725m) in financial support and said it would recognise Niue and Cook Islands as sovereign states. Fourteen nations signed the deal including the Solomon Islands, after reports said its leader would not sign. The region has strategic importance as the gateway to Asia from the Pacific. Its location and its need for assistance, particularly to help it deal with the impact of climate change, has triggered a battle for influence - with China keen on playing a prominent role. In June Beijing proposed a sweeping trade and security deal [...]
Kiwi dollar falling on ‘capital drain’ back to the US, says Adrian Orr
The New Zealand dollar has dropped to its lowest level compared to the US dollar since 2009. The New Zealand dollar was trading at just over 56 US cents and 87 Australian cents on Tuesday morning, having fallen in value by 19% against both currencies over the past year. Although there has been a gradual downward drift over the year, that accelerated during the past few days. Essentially this means importing from the US is now much more expensive than it was. Travelling overseas is also very pricey. But he appeared to indicate the risk of higher imported inflation would not throw New Zealand’s monetary policy off course, describing its own cycle of monetary policy tightening as “well advanced” and “very mature”. Speaking at an event hosted by the [...]
China’s Communist Party has elected delegates for congress
China's President Xi Jinping gives a speech following a swearing-in ceremony to inaugurate the city's new leader and government in Hong Kong on July 1, 2022, on the 25th anniversary of the city's handover from Britain to China. (AFP/Selim CHTAYTI ) China's Communist Party said Sunday that it had elected all the delegates attending a key political meeting starting October 16, where President Xi Jinping is expected to secure an unprecedented third term. The twice-in-a-decade conclave will also see a shuffle of personnel on the party's powerful decision-making body, the 25-member Politburo. "Each electoral unit across the country convened a party congress or party representative meeting and elected 2,296 delegates to the 20th Party Congress," state broadcaster CCTV said. The delegates must adhere to Xi's political ideology in addition [...]
NASA spacecraft to hit asteroid in planetary defence test
In world’s first attempt to change the motion of an asteroid, scientists hope the method can prevent collisions with Earth. NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) spacecraft will hit the asteroid Dimorphos about 11 million kilometres from Earth on Monday evening [Steve Gribben/Johns Hopkins APL/NASA via AP A NASA spacecraft is scheduled to slam into an asteroid, in an unprecedented test designed to prevent potentially devastating collisions with Earth. NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) spacecraft will hit the asteroid Dimorphos about 11 million kilometres from Earth on Monday, attempting to slightly alter its trajectory in a test of the world’s first planetary defence system. “This is a challenging test, and this is why we’re taking these first steps now to develop this technology before we need it,” Nancy [...]
Rise in PH working-age population boom
Workers are seen inside a construction site along Roxas and Macapagal Boulevards in Pasay City, on 4 June 2022. (PHOTO: MIKE ALQUINTO) THE Commission on Population and Development (PopCom) highlighted the important role of a robust working-age population in achieving socioeconomic development through a state of demographic dividend, with the 64 percent ratio of working-age Filipinos in 2020. The PopCom referenced the latest Philippine Statistics Authority's Labor Force Survey, which indicates a continued rise in the employment rate at 94.8 percent in July 2022, estimated at 47.39 million employed people, compared to the 41.67 million in the same period in 2021. During the seventh edition of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific-Committee on Social Development earlier this month, PopCom Officer in Charge Executive [...]
Philippines’ number of new COVID-19 cases in a week up 22%
COVID-19 cases in the country have increased anew after a period of decline, with 17,891 infections recorded from September 19 to 25, 2022—22% higher than those logged the previous week. According to the DOH’s weekly case bulletin, the cases recorded in the past week climbed up from the 14,707 new infections logged the week prior, September 12 to 18. The daily case average for the recent week also increased to 2,556 from last week’s 2,101. OCTA Research said Monday that the new COVID-19 infections in the National Capital Region (NCR) recorded on Sunday surpassed the peak of new cases in August, as most indicators were seen increasing. A total of 242 additional verified COVID-19-related deaths were also belatedly reported in the past week. These deaths were reported from April [...]
Putin grants Russian citizenship to US whistleblower Snowden
File photo. Edward Snowden in Moscow in 2015. Photo: AFP President Vladimir Putin granted Russian citizenship to former US intelligence contractor Edward Snowden, nine years after he exposed the scale of secret surveillance operations by the National Security Agency (NSA). Snowden, 39, fled the United States and was given asylum in Russia after leaking secret files in 2013 that revealed vast domestic and international surveillance operations carried out by the NSA, where he worked. US authorities have for years wanted him returned to the United States to face a criminal trial on espionage charges. There was no immediate reaction from Snowden, whose name appeared without Kremlin comment in a Putin decree conferring citizenship on a list of 72 foreign-born individuals. The news prompted some Russians to jokingly ask whether [...]
Vietnam prepares for arrival of Super Typhoon Noru
Along with other central localities, Quảng Ngãi Province’s authorities are calling fishing vessels to return to shore as the super typhoon Noru is heading towards Việt Nam with expected landfall on Wednesday. Local border guards are helping fishermen secure their boats. Viet Nam News/Asia News Network HANOI — Vietnam’s northern and central provinces have been told to prepare for super typhoon Noru, which is heading in a northwest direction with wind speeds of up to 183km per hour. The typhoon is set to become the fourth to hit the country in 2022. The typhoon hit Luzon Island in the Philippines on Sunday, with wind speeds of 167-183km per hour, according to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting. By 10am on Monday, it will be about 740km off the Hoàng [...]
APPEC: Vitol expects Russian fuel to come to Asia and Mideast
FILE PHOTO: Vitol CEO Russell Hardy speaks during the 20th Asia Oil & Gas Conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia June 24, 2019. REUTERS/Lai Seng Sin SINGAPORE— Russian fuel is expected to come to Asia and the Middle East, while fuels produced there are expected to flow to the West, Vitol's Chief Executive Officer Russell Hardy said on Monday. More than a million barrels per day of U.S. crude is expected to go to Europe to fill the gap in Russian supplies, he told a forum at the 38th Annual Asia Pacific Petroleum Conference (APPEC) 2022 conference, adding that Russian commodities would need to find a home in places outside the United Kingdom, United States and European Union. "It's going to go further and longer distances and find different [...]
US, South Korea begin naval drills after North’s missile test
South Korea's hawkish President Yoon Suk-yeol, who took office in May, has vowed to beef up joint military exercises with the United States (Photo: AFP/handout) SEOUL— South Korea and the United States began their first combined naval exercise near the peninsula in five years on Monday (Sep 26), a day after Pyongyang conducted a ballistic missile launch. Washington is Seoul's key security ally and stations about 28,500 troops in South Korea to protect it from the nuclear-armed North. South Korea's hawkish President Yoon Suk-yeol, who took office in May, has vowed to beef up joint military exercises with the United States, after years of failed diplomacy with North Korea under his predecessor. "This exercise was prepared to demonstrate the strong will of the South Korea-US alliance to respond [...]
PBBM wants generators deployed; dams’ water release controlled
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (Photo courtesy of PBBM's official Facebook page) MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday directed the Department of Energy (DOE) to deploy more generators with fuel to areas in Nueva Ecija and Aurora that have limited power supply in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Karding. In a situation briefing with top government officials at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) headquarters in Quezon City, DOE Secretary Raphael Lotilla bared that aside from Nueva Ecija and Aurora, other provinces facing power supply problems are Tarlac, Zambales, Pampanga, and Quezon. Lotilla said although main generation plants were spared from the typhoon, several areas remain partially affected by power supply issues. Marcos, for his part, acknowledged that it will take [...]
Iran protests Western stance on mass protests over Mahsa Amini’s death
A pro-government rally in Tehran. Photo: AFP Iran summoned the British and Norwegian ambassadors over what it called interference and hostile media coverage of the nationwide unrest triggered by the death of a woman detained by morality police. Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian also criticised US support for "rioters" - the label Tehran has used for many who have joined the protests which have swept the country, prompting a security crackdown and curbs on internet and phones. Demonstrations which erupted more than a week ago at the funeral of a 22-year-old Kurdish woman named Mahsa Amini, who died in detention after being arrested by police enforcing the Islamic Republic's strict restrictions on women's dress, have turned into the biggest protests in years. Clashes continued between security forces and protesters in [...]
PH Govt to airlift food, generators to typhoon-hit areas
The government has mobilized to send food and generators to areas hammered by Super Typhoon Karding, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said on Monday. "Presently what we are organizing is the airlift for food materials, food packs, water into Polillo because they said it's really down. It was the first hit," the President said. Marcos, who attended a situation briefing at the Office of Civil Defense in Camp Aguinaldo, ordered the deployment of generators to the provinces of Aurora and Nueva Ecija. "Since we've already identified that the whole of Nueva Ecija and the whole of Aurora have no power, then we need to send them power," he said. After the briefing, the President conducted an aerial survey of areas hit by "Karding." The fly-by included Bulacan, Nueva Ecija [...]
US warns of catastrophic consequences if Russia uses nuclear weapons in Ukraine
Ukrainian service members ride atop an armoured fighting vehicles, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kharkiv region, Ukraine, on Sep 24, 2022. (Photo: REUTERS/Oleksandr Ratushniak) KYIV— The United States warned on Sunday (Sep 25) of "catastrophic consequences" if Moscow were to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine, after Russia's foreign minister said regions holding widely-criticised referendumswould get full protection if annexed by Moscow. Votes in four eastern Ukrainian regions, aimed at annexing territory Russia has taken by force, were staged for a third day on Sunday. The Russian parliament could move to formalise the annexation within days. By incorporating the areas of Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia into Russia, Moscow could portray efforts to retake them as attacks on Russia itself, a warning to Kyiv and its Western allies. [...]
5 areas in PH under Signal 5 as Karding endangers the Polillo Islands
Five areas were placed under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 5 on Sunday afternoon as Super Typhoon Karding maintained its strength while endangering the Polillo Islands, PAGASA said in its 2 p.m. severe weather bulletin. The areas under Signal 5 were: Polillo Islands; the extreme northern portion of Quezon (the northern and central portions of General Nakar, the northeastern portion of Infanta); the extreme southern portion of Aurora (Dingalan); the eastern portion of Bulacan (Doña Remedios Trinidad, Norzagaray) and; the extreme southeastern portion of Nueva Ecija (the southeastern portion of General Tinio). These areas could experience very strong winds of more than 185 km/h in at least 12 hours. These winds were an extreme threat to life and property, PAGASA warned. Areas under TCWS No. 4, meanwhile, were: [...]
Japan eyes hiking defense spending to ¥40 trillion over five years
Ground Self-Defense Force personnel take part in a joint exercise with U.S. Army soldiers at a maneuvering ground in Yamato, Kumamoto Prefecture, on Aug. 28. | KYODO Japan is considering sharply increasing its defense spending to more than ¥40 trillion ($279 billion) over the next five years, government officials have said. The amount compares with the ¥27.47 trillion in total specified as defense costs for five years through fiscal 2023 in the country’s Medium Term Defense Program, the officials said Saturday. The plan reflects Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s pledge to “fundamentally reinforce” the country’s defense capabilities in the face of China’s military expansion and North Korea’s rapid nuclear and missile development. Senior government officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the five-year plan presenting the total amount of [...]
Tasmanian crews start hauling carcasses of stranded whales out to sea
About 200 pilot whales to be given at-sea burials in very deep water as no surviving animals remain on Ocean Beach The number of crews working on the rescue and removal of the stranded pilot whales will be scaled back over the next few days. Photograph: Glenn Nicholls/AFP/Getty Images Crews are expected to start hauling the carcasses of about 200 dead whales out to sea after a mass stranding on Tasmania’s west coast. The pod of about 230 pilot whales became stranded on Ocean Beach, west of Strahan, on Wednesday, with a smaller number stranded in nearby Macquarie Harbour. It was almost two years to the day and in the same location as Australia’s biggest ever whale stranding event, when 470 pilot whales were stranded and 380 died in [...]
Switzerland to destroy 10 million doses of Moderna’s COVID-19 jab
Moderna announced that it has begun clinical trials of a booster dose of vaccine designed specifically to combat the Omicron variant of the coronavirus. (Photo: AFP/Frederic J Brown) GENEVA: Switzerland will need to destroy 10.3 million doses of Moderna's vaccine against COVID-19, after they expired this week, the health ministry said on Saturday (Sep 24). The ministry said it had no choice but to eliminate the jabs after the doses expired last Wednesday, according to Keystone-ATS. It told the news agency that 2.5 million of the doses were being stored at a Swiss army logistics base and 7.8 million were in an external storage depot in Belgium. The ministry confirmed an initial report on Swiss news site Beobachter, which estimated that the doses set for destruction were [...]
Bongbong Marcos back in PH after successful US trip
Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. addresses the General assembly at the United Nations on September 20, 2022 in New York City. (Getty Images via AFP) NEW YORK CITY, United States — After a successful trip in the United States, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is back in the country. The aircraft carrying the President and the Philippine delegation arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 at 6:09 a.m. Marcos Jr. concluded his six-day working visit in New York on Friday, Sept. 23, calling his trip to the US “successful.” He said he was also “satisfied” and “happy” with the results of the trip. Marcos said he and the Philippine delegation achieved what it sought to do in the trip, which was to meet with several American [...]
CIA museum: Inside the world’s most top secret museum
Photo: AFP / Saul Loeb It is the perhaps the most unusual - and exclusive - museum in the world, filled with artefacts that have shaped history but its doors are firmly shut to the public. It is the only place a visitor can see the gun found with Osama bin Laden when he was killed, next to Saddam Hussein's leather jacket. Welcome to the CIA's secret in-house museum. Located inside the US intelligence agency's headquarters in Langley, Virginia, the collection has just been renovated to mark the agency's 75th anniversary. A small group of journalists, including the BBC, were given exclusive access, although with a security escort constantly at their side. Among the 600 artefacts on display are kind of cold war spy gadgets you might expect [...]
Focus on drug lords, not small fry – President Marcos
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (File photo from Malacañang) NEW YORK CITY — Changing the “focus” of the fight against illegal drugs, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he had told the Philippine National Police that he was “not interested” in small-time drug pushers and instructed officials to put more effort into going after big-time narcotics suppliers and distributors. Marcos said on Friday that he gave the order during a meeting with top PNP officials after he took office on June 30, succeeding Rodrigo Duterte, whose brutal war on drugs is under investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor. “It is certainly my view that enforcement, which has been the part of the drug war that has been most vigorously pursued by President [Rodrigo] Duterte, only gets you so far. [...]
Bongbong Marcos, Japan PM Kishida reinforce PH – Japan ties in New York meeting
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (PH media delegation pool) NEW YORK CITY — On the fourth day of his working visit here, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Wednesday (Thursday Manila time) met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for the first time on the sidelines of the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles said the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to reinforce ties and strengthen cooperation, discussing how the two nations saw growth and deepened cooperation in addressing their security and defense priorities. In particular, Marcos and Kishida tackled maritime security, maritime domain awareness, maritime law enforcement capacities, and peace in Mindanao. “During their meeting, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to reinforce ties and [...]
Biden, Philippines’ Marcos discuss tensions in South China Sea
Philippine Marines fold a Philippine national flag during a flag retreat at the BRP Sierra Madre, a marooned transport ship in the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, part of the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, on Mar 29, 2014. (Photo: Reuters/Erik De Castro) NEW YORK— US President Joe Biden and his Philippine counterpart, Ferdinand Marcos, underscored their support for freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea on Thursday (Sep 22), in response to China's efforts to exert its influence there. Biden and Marcos held their first face-to-face talks on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Marcos, son of the late Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, took power in June. "The leaders discussed the situation in the South China Sea and underscored their support for [...]
Expelling Russian ambassador ‘least meaningful’ diplomatic option – Ardern
Jacinda Ardern at the UN in New York on 20 September 2022. File photo. Photo: RNZ / Craig McCulloch Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has downplayed the likelihood of the Russian ambassador being expelled. Russian President Vladimir Putin sparked fresh outrage this week, making more veiled threats of nuclear war, and sharing plans to hold referendums on whether occupied regions of Ukraine should become part of Russia. A decision on whether to expel Russian ambassador Georgy Zuev has been under active consideration by the government, with any such move likely to result in New Zealand ambassador Sarah Walsh getting the boot from Moscow. Speaking to media in New York, Ardern said sanctions against Russian oligarchs and support for the Ukrainian war efforts were more important. She said all options, [...]
EU boss says trade deal with NZ a ‘gold standard’ for future agreements
The EU's July trade deal with New Zealand is comprehensive and a wonderful agreement, Bernd Lange says. Photo: European Parliament The chair of the European Parliament's International Trade committee is confident the process of ratifying the trade deal with New Zealand will be simple. New Zealand secured an historic free trade agreement with the European Union in July 2022, which would remove tariffs on 91 percent of NZ exports, once signed. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen announce the agreement in Brussels. Photo: Kenzo TRIBOUILLARD / AFP But some in New Zealand have warned ratification will not be easy and will require a significant amount of political lobbying. New Zealand's chief negotiator Vangelis Vitalis has pointed to groups in Europe, like [...]
Sri Lanka: Inflation rate jumps to 70.2% in August
GETTY IMAGES Sri Lanka's annual inflation rate surged to more than 70% in August as it struggles with its worst economic crisis in over seven decades. Official data also showed food prices rose by 84.6% compared to a year ago. The South Asian nation of 22m people was plunged into financial and political chaos this year as it faced a shortage of foreign currencies. The country has been unable to afford key imports - including fuel, fertiliser and medicine. Last month, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka said it expected inflation to ease, as the country's economy slowed, after peaking at about 70%. Official figures released last week showed that the economy had contracted by 8.4% in the three months to the end of August. Before the pandemic, Sri [...]
Marcos tackles govt priorities with US-ASEAN biz leaders, ex-UK PM Blair
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. tackled his administration’s priorities in separate meetings with business leaders and a former United Kingdom prime minister championing globalization during his working visit to the United States. In a Facebook post late Wednesday, Radio Television Malacañang (RTVM) said Marcos attended a business dialogue with the US-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Business Council and the US Chamber of Commerce. “The President discusses the Philippines’ priorities as conveyed in his national statement during the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level General Debate, and the bilateral economic and investment agenda of the Philippine Government,” said RTVM in its post. On early Thursday, the chief executive confirmed in an Instagram post his meeting with ex-UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, [...]
Strong quake rattles top of South and lower North Islands
More than 44,000 people registered with GeoNet as having felt the 5.8 quake in the 15 mins after it hit. (The darker marks show the location of people who reported stronger shaking). Photo: Supplied/ GeoNet A strong 5.8 earthquake has rattled the top of the South Island, and lower North Island tonight. GeoNet said the quake was centred about 30 km north-east of French Pass, at the north end of Tasman Bay It hit at 9.07pm, and was about 51km deep. In the 15 minutes following the earthquake more than 44,000 people registered on the GeoNet website that they had felt the shaking. The highest group of respondents in that time, 8145 people, said it felt like moderate shaking - which GeoNet described as an earthquake strong enough to [...]
Three quarters of fish in southern NZ contain microplastics – study
Photo: AFP An University of Otago study has found three-quarters of wild fish in New Zealand are filled with tiny plastics. Packaging, clothes, and discarded fishing nets are some of the likely sources of record-high microplastics that fish have swallowed. Researcher Isabella Clere told Morning Report that for an isolated island nation with a small population - the numbers are horrifying. Ingesting microplastics was not only bad for the fish but also for the people who ate them, she said. "Nanoplastics and plastic chemicals may transfer from the gastro-intestinal tract and stomach into the muscle tissue which is what we're eating." Understanding how these microplastics get into the seas around New Zealand was complicated, she said. "New Zealand like many other small island countries has a very complex oceanographic [...]
‘Abolish the monarchy’ protests held on Australian day of mourning for Queen
Thousands have marched in protest at colonisation, including in Sydney. Photo: Anadolu Agency / Getty Images Crowds have gathered across Australia for 'abolish the monarchy' protests on the country's national day of mourning for Queen Elizabeth II. Many of the rallies were coordinated by Warriors of the Aboriginal Resistance, which said in a statement it stood "against racist colonial imperialism and its ongoing effects on us as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples". "While they mourn the Queen, we mourn everything her regime stole from us: our children, our land, our loved one's lives, our sacred sites, our histories," the organisation said. Organisers listed their demands as the return of land "to the rightful sovereign owners", an end to Indigenous deaths in custody, and truth, accountability and justice. An [...]
Japan storm: Millions told to evacuate as Typhoon Nanmadol makes landfall
REUTERS One of the biggest typhoons ever to strike Japan has made landfall on the southern island of Kyushu. Typhoon Nanmadol has brought winds of at least 180 km/h (112mph) and some areas could see 500mm (20 inches) of rainfall over Sunday and Monday. At least four million people have been told to evacuate their homes. Extensive flooding and landslides are expected, while bullet train services, ferries, and hundreds of flights have been cancelled. The typhoon made landfall near the city of Kagoshima, on the southern tip of Kyushu, on Sunday morning. Kyushu is the southernmost of the four islands that make up the main body of Japan and has a population of more than 13 million people. Authorities had issued a "special alert" for the island, the first [...]
Pakistan floods put pressure on faltering economy
GETTY IMAGES Many households in the affected areas rely on crops and livestock to make a living The calls are growing louder. Pakistan desperately needs help after its worst floods in years, and it needs it fast. "This climate calamity couldn't have come at a worse time, when Pakistan's economy was already struggling with a balance of payments crisis, rising debt, and soaring inflation," Maleeha Lodhi, former Pakistan ambassador to the UN and the UK, told the BBC. If the country doesn't get debt relief, she added, the economy risks "tanking". Catastrophic rain linked to climate change has submerged large parts of the country, killing nearly 1,500 people and affecting roughly 33 million people. Homes, roads, railways, crops, livestock and livelihoods have been washed away in the extreme weather [...]
Biden again says US would defend Taiwan if China attacks
EPA/Taiwan carried out military exercises earlier this month US President Joe Biden has again said the US would defend Taiwan in the event of an attack by China. Asked in a CBS interview if US troops would defend the island, Mr Biden said: "Yes, if in fact, there was an unprecedented attack". The remarks prompted the White House to clarify that US policy had not changed. Washington has long maintained a stance of "strategic ambiguity" - it does not commit to defending Taiwan, but also does not rule out the option. Taiwan is a self-ruled island off the coast of eastern China that Beijing claims as part of its territory. Washington has always walked a diplomatic tightrope over the issue. On the one hand it adheres to the One [...]
NZ to observe nationwide minute of silence for the Queen
Aotearoa will observe a national minute of silence in honour of Queen Elizabeth II at 2pm on Monday 26 September. The coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard with the Imperial State Crown placed on top, is carried on a horse-drawn gun carriage of the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery. (Source: Associated Press) Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced today that the minute's silence will take place at the start of New Zealand's state memorial service. The memorial is being held on Monday 26 September, a one-off public holiday to mark the passing of the Queen. "The minute’s silence is a way for people, wherever they might be in New Zealand, to stand together to mark an extraordinary 70 years of service," Ardern said. "We know in [...]
‘You just get on with it’: Jacinda Ardern says Queen gave her ‘best advice’ on being a new mum and leader
New Zealand PM said she sought the Queen’s advice as one of the few women to have combined leadership with motherhood Queen Elizabeth II greets New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, in 2018. Photograph: Victoria Jones/PA Jacinda Ardern says the Queen gave her the best advice she got on combining the duties of leading a country and being a new mother: “Just get on with it.” New Zealand’s prime minister, who is in London to attend the Queen’s funeral, said her first meeting with Queen Elizabeth II was in 2018, when she had recently been elected prime minister and was pregnant with her daughter, Neve. Ardern is one of just a handful of world leaders who have been pregnant and had a child while holding office, and said she [...]
Britain and the world prepare to say last farewell to Queen Elizabeth
Photo: AFP Britain, world leaders and royalty from across the globe will on Monday, UK time, bid a final farewell to Queen Elizabeth, the last towering figure of her era, at a state funeral of inimitable pageantry. At 6.30am (5.30pm NZ time), an official lying-in-state period ends after four days in which hundreds of thousands have queued to file past the casket of Britain's longest-reigning monarch at London's historic Westminster Hall. They, like many across the globe including US President Joe Biden, had wanted to pay tribute to the 96-year-old who had spent seven decades on the British throne. "You were fortunate to have had her for 70 years," Biden said. "We all were." Shortly before 11am (10pm NZ time), the oak coffin, covered in the Royal Standard flag [...]
Marcos hopes to meet Biden in UNGA, woo investors in US
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. hopes his trip to the United States will be a fruitful one as he plans to meet with world leaders and investors. Marcos addressed the Filipino community in New Jersey on Monday morning (Philippine time) hours after he landed in the United States, his third overseas trip since assuming office in June. He said he hopes to meet US President Joe Biden and other world leaders on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) during his working visit. The chief executive added his team requested for a meeting with Biden during the event to ensure they can have a conversation on the side. Both presidents will be addressing the assembly on Sept. 20, the first day of the high-level United [...]
Ukraine counter-offensive won’t change Russia’s plans – Putin
GETTY IMAGES Ukraine's recent counter-offensive will not change Russia's plans, Vladimir Putin has said in his first public comments on the matter. In a remarkable feat, Ukrainian forces say they captured over 8,000 sq km (3,088 sq miles) in six days in the north-eastern Kharkiv region. But Mr Putin said he was not in a hurry, and the offensive in Ukraine's Donbas region remains on track. He also noted that Russia had so far not deployed its full forces. "Our offensive operation in the Donbas is not stopping. They're moving forward - not at a very fast pace - but they are gradually taking more and more territory," he said after a summit in Uzbekistan. The industrial Donbas region in east Ukraine is the focus of Russia's invasion, which [...]
Japanese team wins Ig Nobel for study of fingers turning knobs
A Japanese team led by Gen Matsuzaki, professor of design at Chiba Institute of Technology, wins the engineering prize of the Ig Nobel Prize. (Mutsumi Mitobe) As the leader of the Japanese team that won the engineering prize of this year's Ig Nobel Prize, Gen Matsuzaki hasn't quite come to grips with the honor, which is a parody of the Nobel prizes. Matsuzaki, a professor of design at Chiba Institute of Technology, won the prize for a study that sought to discover the most efficient way for people to use their fingers in turning a knob. The award was announced on Sept. 15. It marked the 16th consecutive year for a Japanese to win an Ig Nobel Prize. Matsuzaki said that his study was not intended to make people [...]
Japan approves 14 venues for G7 ministerial meetings in 2023
TOKYO Japan on Friday approved the venues for the Group of Seven ministerial meetings next year. The G7 summit is scheduled to be held in Hiroshima, one of the two Japanese cities devastated by atomic bombs in the closing days of World War II. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida represents a constituency in the western Japan city. The following is a list of the 14 venues for the G7 ministerial meetings. Foreign -- Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture Finance -- Niigata, Niigata Prefecture Science, technology -- Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture Gender equality -- Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture Internal affairs, security -- Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture Digital technology -- Gunma Prefecture Trade -- Osaka Prefecture Education -- Toyama and Ishikawa prefectures Health -- Nagasaki, Nagasaki Prefecture Labor, employment -- Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture Agriculture -- Miyazaki, Miyazaki [...]
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry ‘uninvited’ from VIP reception at Buckingham Palace
The Sussexes have been snubbed from a royal reception on the eve of the Queen’s funeral – the largest congregation of world leaders in modern history. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have reportedly been “uninvited” to a state reception hosted by the King Charles on Sunday. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are said to have received an invitation earlier this week for the grand event at Buckingham Palace. The gathering, which will see foreign VIPs meet on the eve of Her Majesty’s funeral, is set to be the largest of world leaders in modern history. But palace officials have reportedly insisted it is for working royals only, and aides insist Meghan, 41, and Harry, 37, are unlikely to attend, The Telegraph reports. Over 500 heads of state and [...]
PH envoy: Marcos to meet 6 world leaders, sit-down with Biden uncertain
Metro Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. is expected to meet at least six world leaders on the sidelines of his trip to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly next week, a Philippine diplomat bared Friday. "He probably has six to eight meetings with heads of state," Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel "Babe" Romualdez told CNN Philippines' The Source on Friday. Romualdez said Marcos is expected to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob during his trip set from Sept. 18 to 24. "I think the President of the EU (European Union) is also expected to have a bilateral meeting with President Marcos. I think there are two others awaiting confirmation," he said, adding there are [...]
Pacific News in Brief for Saturday 17th September 2022
Nauruans to the polls next Saturday; Search in Tonga for missing fishermen called off; Air New Zealand rejects claim its ignoring Samoa; Samoa police reject sabotage claim; Australia steps in to save MSG Cup; Tonga names rugby league squad for World Cup Nauruans to the polls next Saturday In one week from today the people of Nauru go to the polls to elect 19 MPs across eight constituencies. 77 candidates are contesting the seats. 18 of those candidates are lining up in the largest constituency, Ubenide, which will elect four MPs. Meneng, in which the current President, Lionel Aingimea is one of the MPs, selects three members. The rest choose two MPs Photo: 123RF The least number of candidates is the six contesting the Boe and Anetan constituencies. Former [...]
King Charles III sends greetings to New Zealanders
King Charles III says he is looking forward to visiting New Zealand. Photo: AFP King Charles III has conveyed his deep affection and commitment to New Zealand in a conversation with the New Zealand Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro. The new monarch said he looked forward to coming to New Zealand on an official visit, although does not know when that would be. Dame Cindy Kiro spoke to the King via phone yesterday. The governor general and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern are in the UK for the Queen's funeral and the surrounding events, including a face meeting between the PM with King Charles on Sunday, and a meeting between Ardern and the new British Prime Minister Liz Truss. At a media briefing in London overnight Dame Cindy stressed that [...]
New Zealand GDP up 1.7% as border reopening helps economy bounce back
GDP has risen 1.7% in the June quarter, with the reopening of the border a factor in the lift. The figures come against a backdrop of Covid disruption and the war in Ukraine. (Source: 1News) It comes after last quarter's fall of 0.2% and eases fears of a recession. The service industries, which make up about two thirds of the economy, were the main contributor to the increase, up 2.7%. "The reopening of borders, easing of both domestic and international travel restrictions, and fewer domestic restrictions under the Orange traffic light setting supported growth in industries that had been most affected by the Covid-19 response measures," national accounts – industry and production senior manager Ruvani Ratnayake said. "In the June 2022 quarter, households and international visitors spent more on [...]
Typhoon Muifa lashes eastern China, forcing 1.6 million from their homes
Waves generated by Typhoon Muifa break along the coast in Lianyungang in China's eastern Jiangsu province on Sep 14, 2022. (Photo: AFP/STR) SHANGHAI: High winds and heavy rain lashed China's densely populated east coast on Thursday (Sep 15), after Typhoon Muifa forced around 1.6 million people to leave their homes and grounded most flights at Shanghai's main airports. Muifa is the strongest tropical cyclone to hit Shanghai - home to more than 25 million people - since record-keeping began in 1949, state broadcaster CCTV said. However, there were no immediate reports of any deaths or casualties. Typoon Muifa was downgraded to a strong tropical storm by Chinese weather forecasters on Thursday, but it will bring heavy rains and flash flooding across several provinces as it moves north across [...]
End of COVID-19 pandemic is in sight, WHO director-general says, ‘so let’s seize this opportunity’
(CNN) — The world has never been in a better position to end the Covid-19 pandemic, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organization, said in a news briefing in Geneva on Wednesday. “Last week, the number of weekly reported deaths from Covid-19 was the lowest since March 2020,” he said. “We have never been in a better position to end the pandemic. We’re not there yet, but the end is in sight. “A marathon runner does not stop when the finish line comes into view; she runs harder with all the energy she has left,” Tedros said. “So must we. We can see the finish line, we are in a winning position, but now is the worst time to stop running. Now is the time to run [...]
Australia is funding just one-tenth of its fair share of global climate action, study finds
Former Kiribati president Anote Tong calls on Australia to take more urgent climate action alongside Palau’s Thomas Esang Jr and Senator David Pocock. Photograph: Mick Tsikas/AAP Australia is being urged to increase its investment in climate action, with a new report estimating the country is funding just one-tenth of its fair share globally. The study being released by Oxfam and ActionAid Australia on Thursday calls on Australia to immediately increase its climate finance commitments to $3bn ahead of the UN climate meeting Cop27 to be held in Egypt in November. The conference is also expected to see growing calls, including from Pacific nations, for wealthy high-polluting countries such as Australia to financially support a dedicated loss and damage facility. At the Cop26 summit in Glasgow last year, a UN [...]
Woman arrested in South Korea over alleged murder of two children found in suitcases in New Zealand
Police investigators work at a scene in New Zealand where two children’s bodies were discovered in suitcases in August. A woman has been arrested in South Korea over the alleged murders. Photograph: Dean Purcell/AP A 42-year-old woman has been arrested in South Korea for the alleged murder of two children whose bodies were discovered in suitcases bought at an auction in New Zealand. South Korean authorities arrested the woman today on a Korean arrest warrant for two charges of murder. The remains of the two young children, who were aged about five and 10, were concealed in the suitcases for a number of years before an Auckland family unsuspectingly bought the luggage in a storage facility’s online auction. They transported their purchases home before making the discovery and [...]
Rate of sea-level rise around New Zealand doubles in the past 60 years – Stats NZ
Lyttelton (pictured here is Lyttelton Harbour) recorded the highest long-term trend in relative sea-level rise. Photo: flickr/Bernard Spragg. NZ The rate of sea-level rise around Aotearoa New Zealand has doubled in recent decades compared with the first half of last century, Stats NZ says. Stats New Zealand recently updated its coastal sea-level rise environmental indicator and found that relative annual sea levels had risen faster over the last 60 years at four coastal monitoring sites Stats NZ environmental and agricultural statistics senior manager Michele Lloyd said the rate had nearly doubled in the last 60 years. "Sea levels rose faster over the last 60 years, 1961 to 2020, compared with the previous 60 years, 1901 to 1960, at four main sites with records dating back to the 1890s [...]
NZX falls sharply as US inflation triggers market turbulence
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver The local sharemarket has taken its lead from Wall Street and opened sharply lower. The benchmark NZX-50 was down 164 points or about a 1.4 percent to 11,598 in early trading. All leading stocks have fallen with Air New Zealand, Fisher and Paykel Healthcare, Summerset, and Infratil down by more than 2 percent. US share markets fell as much as 5 percent after stronger-than-expected inflation numbers reinforced expectations of more aggressive Federal Reserve interest rate hikes. US core inflation rose at an annual rate of 6.3 percent dashing hopes that the easing seen the previous month would continue. "While the market was hoping to see a second consecutive month of fading inflationary pressure, what we got was signs that inflation was broadening, capturing more [...]
Emotions run high in London as thousands queue to see Queen’s lying-in-state
Thousands of royal supporters lined the streets as Queen Elizabeth II's body was brought from Scotland to Buckingham Palace on Tuesday. Around Hyde Street Corner and Constitution Hill, some waited since midday for a last glimpse of Her Majesty and her family members. Sue Neenan was happy to sit through the rain and wait for the fleeting moment the Queen's hearse would drive past, when she expected she would cry. "I just had this undying urge to be here today," she said. Sue Neenan and Deborah James wait on the fence line at Constitution Hill for hours to get a glimpse of the Queen's hearse. Photo: RNZ / Nick Monro Similarly, Deborah James found it to be an emotional time - with emotions rising like a "crescendo". She chose [...]
Well-wishers in London start two-day wait to pay their respects to Queen Elizabeth
King Charles III at the vigil of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth, at St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh, on Sept 12, 2022. PHOTO: AFP LONDON - The first of the countless thousands expected to file past Queen Elizabeth II's coffin in London began queueing two days in advance on Monday, driven by the wish to pay their respects. One brought a newspaper showing pictures of herself meeting the late monarch, while another brought a pot of souvenir marmalade and a miniature cut-out image of the queen. "I told my daughters I'm definitely going to pay my respects in person. I'm glad to wait in the queue, however long," said Ms Vanessa Nanthakumaran, one of the first three people already waiting in the open air more than 48 hours in [...]
PH, Thailand seek to further strengthen defense ties
MANILA – The Philippines and Thailand are looking at the possibility of further boosting their defense relations. DND officer-in-charge Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. (right) and Thai Ambassador to Manila Tull Traisorat (left) (Photo courtesy of DND) Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Undersecretary Jose C. Faustino Jr. and Thai Ambassador to Manila Tull Traisorat made this remark during a Sept. 9 meeting at the DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. "The two officials discussed the status of bilateral defense relations, potential areas of cooperation, ways ahead for logistics and defense industry collaboration, and multilateral cooperation," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement Monday night. Faustino also commended the robust defense relations between the Philippines and Thailand and for sustaining dialogue despite the ongoing pandemic. "He welcomed [...]
UN says 50 million people worldwide stuck in ‘modern slavery’
The pandemic, armed conflicts, and climate change have exacerbated conditions, trapping people in forced labour or marriage. The number of people trapped in forced labour or forced marriage has swelled to about 50 million on any given day, the International Labour Organization says [File: Seyllou/AFP] The number of people trapped in forced labour or forced marriage and other crises has swelled by a fifth in recent years to about 50 million on any given day, the United Nations’ International Labour Organization (ILO) said on Monday. The study by the UN agencies for labour and migration along with the Walk Free Foundation found that at the end of last year, more than half of those had been forced to work against their will and the rest forced into marriage, the [...]
Remembering the Queen: New Zealanders react to bonus day off
A condolence book at the Christchurch City Council (Civic Building). Photo: RNZ / Niva Chittock The news of a new one-off public holiday has gone down well, with some New Zealanders looking forward to a bonus day off. The government has announced a new, one-off public holiday on Monday 26 September, to mark the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Christchurch local, Julian, thought a holiday in honour of the Queen was a great idea. "I really do, yeah. Absolutely. Hopefully I'll take the Friday as well and have a good break, do some remembering, yeah. It will be nice," he said. Sue just wanted the day off closer to the funeral. "We should recognise how long she's been on the throne, I thought it would be a sensible [...]
PM Jacinda Ardern defends scrapping mask, vaccine mandates for now
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says modelling shows there may be an increase in Covid-19 cases before the end of the year. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is defending the move to scrap the Covid-19 traffic light system but says there will continue to be waves of cases. She told Morning Report case numbers were expected to rise, mask use could be brought back and isolation periods could change. "It very much depends on the unknown of what happens with waning immunity. Some modelling suggests we may see an increase in cases before the end of the year, but not to the scale we saw earlier this year, particularly for hospitalisations." While mask mandates on public transport had been scrapped overnight, Ardern said public health officials [...]
Japan could lift cap on foreign tourists to lift economy
GETTY IMAGES/ Japan is considering scrapping cap on foreign visitors to boost weak yen Japanese officials may further relax border controls for foreign travellers as a way to boost its economy, local reports say. Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Seiji Kihara told local TV a weak yen was "most effective in attracting inbound tourism". The yen slid to its lowest point against the US dollar in 24 years last week, dropping as much as 1.7 percent. He said a cap on daily entries could be lifted in the "not so distant future". Japan has barred most foreign visitors for the last two years amid measures to slow the spread of Covid. Last year, overseas visitors were even banned from the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. However earlier this month the number [...]
Australian man killed by kangaroo he kept as pet, police say
GETTY IMAGES/ Kangaroo attacks are rare in Australia An Australian man has died after being attacked by a kangaroo he had been keeping as a pet, police say. A relative found the 77-year-old man with serious injuries on Monday at his home in Redmond, about 400km (250 miles) south of Perth. When paramedics arrived at the rural property, the kangaroo prevented them from treating the man. Police were forced to shoot the marsupial dead. The man died at the scene. A police spokesperson told media they believed the man had been attacked by the kangaroo - a wild animal - earlier in the day. Australia is home to about 50 million kangaroos but attacks are rare. This is the first fatal one reported in Australia since 1936.
Queen Elizabeth II: Details revealed for Queen’s lying-in-state at Westminster
PA MEDIA Mourners wishing to pay their final respects to the Queen have been warned to expect long queues. Details have been revealed about how people can attend the lying-in-state, which will take place at the Palace of Westminster. Large crowds are expected and there are warnings those wanting to take apart in the historic occasion may have to wait for hours and even overnight. People are advised to bring food and drink as well as suitable clothing. The lying-in-state begins at 17:00BST on Wednesday and will last until 06:30 on Monday, 19 September - the day of the Queen's funeral. It will be open 24 hours a day between those times. The last member of the Royal Family to lie in state in the hall was the Queen [...]
Chinese President Xi Jinping to leave China for first time since COVID-19 pandemic began to meet Putin
Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, China Feb 4, 2022. (Photo: Sputnik/Aleksey Druzhinin/Kremlin) BEIJING: Xi Jinping will leave China this week for the first time in more than two years for a trip to Central Asia where he will meet Vladimir Putin just a month before Xi is poised to cement his place as the most powerful Chinese leader since Mao Zedong. The trip, his first abroad since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, shows just how confident Xi is about his grip on power in China and just how perilous the global situation has become: Russia's confrontation with the West over Ukraine, the crisis over Taiwan and a stuttering global economy. Xi is due on a state visit to [...]
Greener homes could boost economy by $147bn by 2050 – report
Building greener houses will benefit people's health, their communities and slash climate pollution, the Green Building Council says. Photo: RNZ / Kim Baker Wilson New Zealand could receive a multi-billion dollar economic boost if new homes and buildings are built greener starting from 2025, a new report claims. The report, written by economic analysts Business and Economic Research Limited (BERL), found building new homes and large offices with significantly less carbon emissions, would add $147 billion to the country's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2050. The study was commissioned by the Green Building Council. Its chief executive Andrew Eagles said the GDP benefit would come from more economic activity due to building to a higher quality, and the additional jobs that would go into creating those homes and [...]
Workers who aided fraud investigation gutted to be told to leave NZ
Ten construction workers who helped authorities with a fraud investigation have been asked to leave the country, despite most having full time work and seeking work visas. Photo: 123rf.com A group of migrants who have been helping an investigation into immigration fraud may soon be forced to leave the country. The group were some of the 50 Chinese construction workers who claimed a New Zealand-based recruiter had misled them about their pay and working rights. Last year an arrest warrant was issued for Li Wenshan, also known as Peter Li, who fled New Zealand before charges were laid. Li still faced charges for immigration fraud. Meanwhile two other people associated with Li face a trial in December this year. Ten workers are expected to give evidence in court, [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 1149 new community cases, 225 hospitalisations and three in ICU
Yesterday, daily reported Covid-19 cases in the community dropped below 1000 for the first time since mid February. File image Photo: Unsplash / Annie Spratt There are 1149 new cases of Covid-19 in the community today as the government prepares to announce whether restrictions will ease. Cabinet will reveal its decision at a conference this afternoon. In a statement, the Ministry of Health said the seven-day rolling average of community case numbers today is 1480. Last Monday, it was 1778. Over the weekend, there were 2299 new community cases, 911 on Sunday and 1388 on Saturday. The ministry also said there were 225 Covid-19 cases in hospital today, including three in ICU. The 225 cases in hospital were in Northland (1), Waitematā (46), Counties Manukau (28), Auckland (36), [...]
32 dead in Vietnam karaoke bar fire
This picture taken and released on Sep 7, 2022 by the Vietnam News Agency shows the burnt-down exteriors of An Phu Karaoke bar in Binh Duong province, north of Ho Chi Minh City. (Photo: AFP/STR/Vietnam News Agency) HANOI— The death toll from a fire that tore through a karaoke bar in southern Vietnam has risen to 32, state media said on Wednesday (Sep 7). The blaze engulfed the second floor of the building on Tuesday night, trapping customers and staff as dense smoke filled the staircase and blocked the emergency exit, reports said. Many crowded onto a balcony to escape the flames, which grew quickly as they caught the wooden interior, while others were forced to jump from the building, state media added. Photos showed plumes of [...]
New malaria vaccine is world-changing, say scientists
KATIE EWER A malaria vaccine with "world-changing" potential has been developed by scientists at the University of Oxford. The team expect it to be rolled out next year after trials showed up to 80% protection against the deadly disease. Crucially, say the scientists, their vaccine is cheap and they already have a deal to manufacture more than 100 million doses a year. The charity Malaria No More said recent progress meant children dying from malaria could end "in our lifetimes". It has taken more than a century to develop effective vaccines as the malaria parasite, which is spread by mosquitoes, is spectacularly complex and elusive. It is a constantly moving target, shifting forms inside the body, which make it hard to immunise against. Last year, the World Health [...]
China approves inhaled Covid vaccine
GETTY IMAGES China has become the first country to approve an inhaled Covid vaccine. Made by CanSino, it has similar ingredients to its injected vaccine, using a harmless adenovirus as a carrier for the genetic code that teaches the body how to fight Covid. Inhaled as a fine mist, Convidecia Air can provide good protection after just one breath, the company says. Other researchers, including teams in the UK and the US, have been investigating nasal spray vaccines. Scientists say these may give added immunity in the lining of the nose and upper airways, where Covid typically enters the body. The National Medical Products Administration of China granted CanSino approval for its inhaled vaccine to be used as a booster dose. It can top up protection in those who [...]
Tropical cyclone likely to enter PAR Wednesday
MANILA – The tropical cyclone outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) is expected to enter either by Wednesday night or Thursday, the weather bureau said. The tropical depression, last spotted 1,530 km. east of extreme northern Luzon, is also forecast to reach the tropical storm category within 36 hours. Once it enters PAR, it will be given the local name, "Inday". A steady intensification is also possible as the tropical cyclone moves over the Philippine Sea, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said. The tropical cyclone, PAGASA said, is unlikely to bring heavy rainfall and severe winds. However, it may cause moderate to rough seas over the seaboards of extreme northern Luzon during the weekend. Meanwhile, scattered rain showers and thunderstorms are forecast to prevail [...]
Bongbong Marcos trip reaps $8.5-B investment, supply pledges
DAY ONE IN SINGAPORE | President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos meet with officials of Temasek Foundation in Singapore on Tuesday afternoon, shortly upon arrival in the city-state following a two-day visit in Indonesia. (Malacañang photo) JAKARTA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday concluded his inaugural state visit here, bringing with him $8.48 billion worth of investment pledges and coal and fertilizer supply commitments from Indonesian businessmen as well as an assurance of enhanced economic and security cooperation from Indonesian President Joko Widodo, particularly in improving the country’s agriculture sector. “I would describe the trip as more productive than we had expected,” a beaming Marcos told journalists who covered his three-day foreign travel. “So far, so good,” he added. “The things that we planned to [...]
Travelling overseas? 7 destinations in Asia that have eased COVID-19 entry rules
(Clockwise from top left) Visitors at the Gyeongbok Palace, in Seoul, South Korea; Malaysia's landmark Petronas Twin Towers illuminated before their lights are turned off to mark the Earth Hour; people gather along the Marina Bay waterfront in Singapore and a woman makes a video call next to cherry blossoms in full bloom in Tokyo, Japan. (Photos: AP/Lee Jin-man, AFP/Mohd Rasfan, AFP/Roslan Rahman, AFP/Behrouz Mehri) SINGAPORE— Destinations around the world have been easing COVID-19 entry restrictions as the pandemic wanes, with Taiwan the latest to announce relaxed rules. The Taiwan government said on Monday (Sep 5) that it will resume visa-free entry for some countries from Sep 12. As travel picks up, here's a look at the updated entry rules for some key Asian destinations. SOUTH KOREA [...]
Revealed: The highest paying jobs in New Zealand
Architects in the IT sector continued to be offered the most money. Photo credit: Getty Images New Zealanders aiming to bag a salary in the mid to high six figures should consider a career in information technology (IT), data suggests. "The tech industry is really feeling the brunt of the talent shortage and salaries are skyrocketing as a result," Tolich added. Coming in second on the highest-paid job list was IT management, offering an average salary of $163,708. IT project management took third place, where roles had an average salary of $161,605. The fourth and fifth spots were also taken out by IT roles with business and systems analysts being average salaries of $152,930 while data warehousing roles were netting about $146,618. Matt Tolich. Photo credit: File [...]
Covid-19: 6 deaths reported, 1793 new cases
There are 1793 new Covid-19 community cases in New Zealand today, Deputy Director-General of Health Dr Andrew Old announced at a media conference. Covid-19 virus (file picture) The numbers were reported over the last 24 hours. There are 260 people in hospital with the virus, 13 fewer than Tuesday. Five people with the virus are in intensive care, two more than Tuesday. Six more people with the virus have died. On Tuesday there were 2035 new Covid cases and 12 deaths reported in New Zealand.
Gas prices likely to hit new highs as Russia shuts pipeline indefinitely
More UK manufacturers are cutting production or making job cuts as result of ‘out of control’ energy bills European leaders have accused Russia of weaponising energy supplies. Photograph: John MacDougall/AFP/Getty Analysts are expecting gas prices to surge to record highs this week after Russia shut down a key pipeline to Europe. At the same time, a growing number of UK manufacturers have said they are already cutting production or making job cuts as a direct result of “out of control” energy bills. Many commentators warned that European prices, which have risen by nearly 400% over the past year owing to lower gas flows from Russia, would go up further when markets open on Monday after Moscow scrapped a Saturday deadline for flows to resume through the Nord Stream 1 [...]
Canada rocked by multiple deadly stabbings in Saskatchewan
RCMP SASKATCHEWAN The suspects have been identified as Damien Sanderson (left) and Myles Sanderson At least 10 people have been killed and another 15 injured in a stabbing rampage in Canada's central Saskatchewan province, police say. The victims were found in 13 locations, including in James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon. Two suspects that police identified as Damien Sanderson, 31, and Myles Sanderson, 30, are on the run and considered armed and dangerous. Residents have been told to shelter in place under a dangerous person alert. "Do not leave a secure location. Use caution allowing others into your residence," Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Saskatchewan said, urging residents not to pick up hitchhikers. "The suspects may be in black Nissan Rogue [vehicle]," the police said, warning anyone who [...]
Toast Electric, NZ’s first not-for-profit power company, to launch this month
Photo: Kelly Sikema / Unsplash Aotearoa's first not-for-profit power company will launch in the Wellington region this month, aiming to reduce energy hardship. Toast Electric will use profits from "regular" customers to subsidise the electricity bills of those who struggle to pay. It is run by Wellington sustainable living social enterprise, the Sustainability Trust, which has been operating a pilot with around 80 "friends and family" customers since May. Sustainability Trust fair energy manager Phil Squire said it was addressing a desperate need within the community. "Energy hardship is a real big issue of our times, with lower incomes and high cost of energy, and poor housing quality. "We at least think we've got a shot at making a difference." Initially, those in energy hardship will be referred to [...]
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to travel to New York for United Nations meeting
Jacinda Ardern has previously spoken at the United Nations. Photo: AFP Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will travel to New York in a few weeks' time to represent New Zealand at the United Nations General Assembly. Ardern said it will be an important opportunity to set out New Zealand's continued commitment to the multilateral system and international rules-based order. "As the world continues to grapple with Covid-19, climate change, the Ukraine and geopolitical tensions, international cooperation is more important than ever," she said. Ardern addressed the general assembly virtually last year as well in person in 2019 and in 2018. While in New York, Ardern will also co-host the Christchurch Callto Action Leader's Summit with President of France Emmanuel Macron. "I look forward to meeting with heads of state [...]
Scientists investigate rise in great white shark sightings at popular New Zealand holiday spot
Researchers and local iwi looking into whether increased reports of great whites around Bay of Plenty could be linked to warming oceans A great white shark in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region. Scientists are investigating increased sightings of the predator in the area. Photograph: Phil Ross Great white shark sightings are increasing in one of New Zealand’s most popular coastal holiday spots, with a team of experts assembling to find out what is behind the rise. The population in the Bay of Plenty region, on the North Island’s east coast, booms over summer as holidaymakers flock to the area’s beautiful beaches. But visitors have become increasingly fearful over what appears to be more frequent visits from great white sharks during summer. The country’s most recent fatal great white [...]
New Zealand’s shadow foreign affairs spokesperson faces criticism for response to UN report on Uyghurs
New Zealand’s foreign affairs spokesperson, Gerry Brownlee, has been criticised for his response to the UN’s report on Uyghur Muslims in China. Photograph: Getty Images New Zealand’s shadow foreign affairs spokesperson said a UN report on the human rights abuses of Uyghurs includes recognition that China is “dealing with a terrorist problem essentially”, in remarks criticised by China analysts. “It’s good that it acknowledges that there has been a terrorism problem in the particular part of China that the report is on,” Gerry Brownlee, a lawmaker for the centre-right National party, told Radio New Zealand (RNZ) on Thursday in an interview about the UN findings. In the damning report, the outgoing UN human rights commissioner, Michelle Bachelet, said China had committed “serious human rights violations” against Uyghur Muslims in [...]
Australia lifts permanent immigration by 35,000 to 195,000
Australia has announced it will increase its permanent immigration intake by 35,000 to 195,000 as it grapples with skills and labor shortages Australia's Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil speaks at the Jobs and Skills Summit in Canberra, Friday, Sept. 2, 2022. O'Neil announced it will increase its permanent immigration intake by 35,000 to 195,000 in the current fiscal year as the nation grapples with skills and labor shortages. (Mick Tsikas/AAP Image via AP) The Associated Press CANBERRA, Australia -- The Australian government announced on Friday it will increase its permanent immigration intake by 35,000 to 195,000 in the current fiscal year as the nation grapples with skills and labor shortages. Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil announced the increase for the year ending June 30, 2023, during a two-day [...]
Economic cooperation focus of Marcos’ state visits to Indonesia, Singapore – DFA
Metro Manila, Philippines — The government is expected to sign a number of economic deals with Indonesia and Singapore during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s state visits in the coming days, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Friday. DFA Spokesperson and Ambassador Ma. Teresita Daza told reporters that strengthening economic cooperation is among the focus of Marcos' trips, and that the Department of Trade and Industry has prepared related agreements to be signed in both countries. "These will actually be tailored to the priority areas of this administration," she said in a media briefing. "So, these could include infrastructure, renewable energy, food and security, and fertilizer importation, among others." Besides Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo, members of Marcos' economic team are seen to join the Philippine delegation, Daza said. These [...]
NASA aims to launch new Artemis Moon rocket on Saturday
NASA's next-generation Moon rocket, the Space Launch System (SLS), with the Orion crew capsule perched on top [Joe Skipper/Reuters] NASA ground teams at a space centre in Florida have begun final preparations to launch the next-generation Moon rocket on its debut test flight, five days after technical problems foiled an initial try. The new Moon rocket is set to launch on Saturday, officials said, after fixing fuel leaks and working around a bad engine sensor. Tests showed technicians appeared to have fixed a leaky fuel line that contributed to NASA’s decision to halt Monday’s initial launch operation, Jeremy Parsons, a deputy programme manager at the Kennedy Space Center, told reporters on Friday. Two other key issues on the rocket itself – a faulty engine temperature sensor and some cracks [...]
Singapore reports first Zika case since March 2020
The virus is primarily transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, similar to dengue. File photo of an Aedes mosquito. (Photo: iStock) SINGAPORE— Singapore has reported its first Zika case since March 2020. The case was reported during the week of Aug 21 to Aug 27 this year, according to the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) latest weekly infectious diseases bulletin. CNA has contacted the Health Ministry for more information. National Environment Agency (NEA) data showed that 666 dengue cases were also reported during the same week. Zika virus infection is primarily transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, similar to dengue. There were 194 active dengue clusters in Singapore as of Aug 29 this year. The NEA website also showed that 75 dengue clusters are currently identified as “red”, indicating that each [...]
Inflation, Housing And A Tight Labour Market Set To Continue Putting The Screws On The New Zealand Economy
Inflation has likely peaked but it could be 2024 before it drops back below 3%. House prices expected to continue to fall through to mid-2023. The OCR is expected to increase to a peak of 4% by year-end before starting to fall in 2024. New Zealanders are set to face a tough year as the continued pressures of inflation, housing and a tight labour market combine, according to the latest ASB Quarterly Economic Forecast. Growth is set to be quite weak, with the economy potentially flirting with recession. Inflation hit a three-decade high in the middle of 2022. ASB chief economist Nick Tuffley says although the outlook is still uncertain, inflation should ease gradually over the next couple of years. “Inflation likely hit its peak midway through this year, [...]
Aussie property prices see biggest drop in value in almost 40 years
Australian property values have suffered their biggest monthly drop in almost 40 years as the market's downturn accelerates. CoreLogic's national Home Value Index recorded a fourth straight month of decline in August, with the retreat in prices accelerating and covering more of Australia. The drop in August was 1.6 per cent, the biggest month-on-month decline since 1983. Property prices dropped 1.6 per cent in August, the biggest month-on-month decline since 1983. (Nine) Every capital city apart from Darwin is now in a housing downturn, and regional Australia isn't too dissimilar, with only South Australia recording an increase in regional housing values for the month. Sydney continued to the lead the downswing, with values falling -2.3 per cent in August. But Brisbane also saw an accelerated decline, with values falling [...]
EU foreign ministers agree to suspend visa travel deal with Russia
Move will curb number of Russian nationals entering the bloc but stops short of full tourist visa ban Russian tourists arriving by bus at the Nuijamaa border crossing in Finland. Photograph: Alessandro Rampazzo/AFP/Getty Images The EU has agreed to suspend a visa travel deal with Moscow to curb the number of Russian nationals entering the bloc for holidays and shopping, stopping short of a full tourist visa ban demanded by some central and eastern European countries. Meeting in Prague, the EU’s 27 foreign ministers promised to suspend the 2007 visa facilitation agreement with Russia that makes it relatively easy to obtain travel documents. The EU’s high representative for foreign policy, Josep Borrell, said there had been a “substantial increase of border crossings” from Russia into the EU since mid-July, [...]
Taiwan fires live rounds at drones near outlying islands
GETTY IMAGES Kinmen is a group of islands just kilometres away from mainland China Taiwan has fired warning shots for the first time to drive back drones that flew over its outlying islands near China. Taiwan's defence ministry said the three drones were seen flying back towards the Chinese mainland. Taipei has in recent weeks complained of Chinese drones flying close to its islets near the Chinese mainland. Cross-strait tensions remain high after US politician Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan earlier this month. Taiwan has reported an increase in drone incursions after China launched huge military drills in a show of force after Mrs Pelosi's visit. President Tsai Ing-wen has labelled some of the drone missions - which have flown over military outposts -as a type of "grey zone" [...]
DFA: PH open to joint oil, gas exploration talks with China in WPS
Metro Manila, Philippines— The Philippines is open to talking to China about holding oil and gas exploration in the West Philippine Sea, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). "We have already indicated to China our openness to have new talks on oil and gas exploration," Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said during the Commission on Appointments' foreign affairs committee hearing on Wednesday. Chinese minister Liu Jianchao earlier expressed hope that joint exploration talks would continue under the Marcos administration. Manalo vowed that the country will be firm in asserting its rights over the West Philippine Sea once the negotiations push through. "Our guiding position will be any agreement that we enter into with China, or any other country for that matter... we will not be agreeing to [...]
Japan’s PM cuts ties to Unification church after Shinzo Abe death
The church had built close ties with Fumio Kishida’s ruling party and a host of conservative lawmakers Japan’s prime minister, Fumio Kishida, apologised for causing the loss of public trust in politics.Photograph: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Japan’s prime minister, Fumio Kishida, has announced that his ruling party will cut ties with the Unification church after a widening scandal caused by the assassination of the party’s former leader Shinzo Abe last month. Kishida also apologised for causing the loss of public trust in politics. Cozy ties between members of Kishida’s governing Liberal Democratic party, many of them belonging to Abe’s faction, and the South Korean-born church have surfaced since Abe was shot to death while giving a campaign speech in July. The suspect, Tetsuya Yamagami, who was arrested at the [...]
Overseas firms buy more sheep, beef farms for forestry conversion
NEW ZEALAND— The sale of four sheep and beef farms to overseas investors, who will turn about 7100 hectares into rotational forests, has been approved. Pine plantation on a hillside (file photo) Photo: RNZ / Kate Newton The Overseas Investment Office (OIO) has issued its latest decisions made under the special forest test. Introduced in 2018, the test was designed to support the government's forestry priorities, including more tree planting. Farming groups have raised concerns too much productive farmland is being lost to trees. Furniture store IKEA's parent company Ingka Investments is continuing to buy land to plant trees with its latest purchase, the Huiarua and Matanui Stations in the Gisborne region with a combined area of just over 6000 hectares. Nearly 5000 hectares of the sheep and beef [...]
New Zealander in Ukraine certain slain soldier Dominic Abelen’s body in Russian hands
A former New Zealand soldier now fighting on Ukraine's front line is certain the body of New Zealand soldier Dominic Abelen is in Russian hands. The man, who RNZ has agreed not to name, was a close friend of Abelen, who was killed alongside American Joshua Jones in the east of the country. Dominic Abelen. Photo: Supplied / NZDF The New Zealand government has not been able to say where the body is but the friend said it would be with Jones. The former soldier said he had seen evidence that Jones' body was with the Russian side. "They've put in the media, photos of Josh's passport, Josh's Ukrainian military ID, and pictures of Joshua's body as well. "We haven't received anything or seen anything like that with [...]
Defence Minister warns ‘Ukraine is an active war zone’ as NZ troops head to UK
Defence Minister Peeni Henare warns 'Ukraine is an active war zone', as New Zealand troops head to the UK to help train soldiers. NZ Army personnel leaving for the UK this morning. Photo: RNZ/Nick Monro The main group of NZ Army personnel were leaving from the base this morning for the United Kingdom to train Ukrainian infantry recruits. The government announced this month New Zealand was sending another 120 Defence staff to the UK to help train Ukraine soldiersto defend against Russia after the completion of the previous 30-strong deployment. The deployment would last until 30 November, and was to enable two teams to train Ukrainian infantry with core skills for frontline combat including weapon handling, combat first aid, operational law and more. It would contribute to the UK's [...]
US President Joe Biden plans to ask Congress to approve US$1.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan: Report
US President Joe Biden speaks to members of the media at the White House in Washington on Aug 26, 2022. (Photo: Reuters/Leah Millis) WASHINGTON— The Joe Biden administration plans to ask the United States Congress to approve an estimated US$1.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, including 60 anti-ship missiles and 100 air-to-air missiles, Politico reported on Monday (Aug 29), citing sources, amid heightened tensions with China. China carried out its largest war games around the democratically governed island after a visit this month by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Beijing has not ruled out using force to bring the island under its control. China on Monday dismissed complaints from Taiwan about repeated harassment by Chinese drones very close to Taiwanese-controlled islands as not anything "to make a fuss [...]
Primary health care nurses rally for better pay
Nurses took to the streets across the country today over what they say is pay disparity between community nurses and their counterparts in hospitals. Their union says nurses who work in primary care, such as GP clinics and for Plunket, are being paid much less than Te Whatu Ora nurses. New Zealand Nurses Organisation president Anne Daniels said although primary health care nurses had the same qualifications as nurses who fell under the new Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand, they were paid less - sometimes up to 25 percent less. Daniels was at the rally in Wellington and said the union was fighting against injustice for primary care nurses who were underpaid and under valued. "They were the frontline during the Covid outbreaks, doing the vaccinations and the [...]
Cost of living payment: National criticises government’s ‘loose and sloppy’ attitude to taxpayer money
The National Party is urging the government to apologise after the auditor-general's ruling on the distribution of payments to help low and middle income New Zealanders with the high cost of living. National Party finance spokesperson Nicola Willis says the government's cost of living payment roll-out demonstrates a 'culture of disregard for taxpayer money'. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver Auditor-General John Ryan had been urged to investigate by National's deputy leader Nicola Willis. His investigation concluded that the payments made to ineligible people did not constitute unappropriated expenditure, but that the government should have taken greater care when distributing those payments. Some people living offshore received the first instalment, as did former migrants and - in some cases - people who had died. Willis, who is also National's [...]
Major sea-level rise caused by melting of Greenland ice cap is ‘now inevitable’
Meltwater flows from the ice sheet into the Baffin Bay near Pituffik in northern Greenland.Photograph: Kerem Yücel/AFP/Getty Images Major sea-level rise from the melting of the Greenland ice cap is now inevitable, scientists have found, even if the fossil fuel burning that is driving the climate crisis were to end overnight. The research shows the global heating to date will cause an absolute minimum sea-level rise of 27cm (10.6in) from Greenland alone as 110tn tonnes of ice melt. With continued carbon emissions, the melting of other ice caps and thermal expansion of the ocean, a multi-metre sea-level rise appears likely. Billions of people live in coastal regions, making flooding due to rising sea levels one of the greatest long-term impacts of the climate crisis. If Greenland’s record melt [...]
China prosecutes 28 people over restaurant attack on group of women
A screengrab from video footage shows two women lying on the ground after being assaulted at a restaurant in Tangshan in June. Photograph: Reuters Chinese prosecutors have launched criminal proceedings against 28 people suspected of assaulting a group of women in a viral incident that sparked outrage over gender-based violence in the country. Footage of a group of men assaulting four women at a barbecue restaurant in Tangshan, east of the capital, Beijing, was shared widely online, renewing debate about violence against women in China. The men carried out the assault after the women rejected their advances, the footage showed. Prosecutors in Hebei province said they would begin legal proceedings against the suspects – including seven directly involved in the assault – after they obtained “reliable and sufficient” [...]
Gov’t agencies to enhance PH salt production
Metro Manila, Philippines— The Department of Agriculture (DA) said it will collaborate with other government agencies to strengthen the country’s salt industry. In a statement released on Sunday, the DA said it will work closely with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to improve local salt production in line with Republic Act 8172 or the Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide (ASIN). This comes as the sector “failed to adapt” to challenges resulting from climate change, food safety standards and quality requirements, tariff reduction, and mandatory iodization imposed by RA 8172, said the DA. “Under the ASIN law, the DENR, along with other appropriate government agencies shall identify areas that are suitable for use as salt farms with the purpose [...]
Nurses plan to leave NZ over residency rules: ‘I can’t wait any more’
Frustrated New Zealand-trained migrant nurses are planning to leave the country because they cannot find an immediate path to residency, just as the government tries to entice foreigners to fill thousands of jobs in hospitals, aged care and clinics. Nurses were controversially excluded from the government's new straight-to-residence Green List and must instead work in the profession for two years first. Photo: 123rf Recent graduates working in aged care in Tauranga say they are being forced to abandon their dream home because of an immigration policy that means they must wait another two years for residency. Sandeep Kaur has spent years separated from her two young sons in India while studying for a nursing degree in New Zealand. She said she was devastated the profession was excluded from [...]
Corporal Dominic Abelen confirmed as New Zealander killed in Ukraine
The Defence Force has confirmed Corporal Dominic Abelen as the New Zealander killed in Ukraine. Corporal Dominic Abelen, who was killed in Ukraine while on unpaid leave from the New Zealand Defence Force. Photo: Supplied / NZDF In a statement this afternoon, the Defence Force said the 30-year-old had served with the 2nd/1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment based in Burnham, but had been on a period of leave without pay and was not on active duty. His father also released a statement through the Defence Force, saying Corporal Abelen had always thought of others. "Dominic was in the NZ Army for 10 years but never got to fight for his country," he said. "He didn't tell us he was going to Ukraine until he was there. [...]
Graeme Hart inducted into NZ Business Hall of Fame
New Zealand's richest man is encouraging the next generation of business leaders to take risks. Graeme Hart with his granddaughter Jemima Hawkesby, who introduced him as he was inducted into the NZ Business Hall of Fame . Photo: Supplied Graeme Hart has been reflecting on a series of his leaps of faith during his 50 year career, that now has him on the Forbes Billionaires 2022 list at spot 218. The 67-year-old investor holds a net worth of $9.7 billion. He is New Zealand's wealthiest person. He was inducted into the NZ Business Hall of Fame on Thursday 18 August 2022. "It's a real privilege to find yourself in a position after a career, you know, Greg Thomas, Ulu's, myself, Les Mills, where you are being recognised into the [...]
Darya Dugina: Daughter of Putin ally killed in Moscow bomb – report
Alexander Dugin wants Mr Putin to intervene militarily in eastern Ukraine The daughter of a close ally to Russia's President Vladimir Putin has reportedly been killed near Moscow. According to state media, Darya Dugina died after her car exploded in flames while she was driving home. It is thought that her father, the Russian philosopher Alexander Dugin who is known as "Putin's brain," may have been the intended target of the attack. Mr Dugin is a prominent ultra-nationalist ideologue who is believed to be close to the Russian president. According to Russian media outlet 112, the pair were due to travel back from an event on Saturday evening in the same car before Mr Dugin made the decision to travel separately from his daughter at the last minute. [...]
New Zealand to fund $4.8m health partnership programme for Tonga
Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta has announced a new programme to bolster Tonga's health service. Health workers in Tonga promoting a Covid-19 vaccination drive in 2021. The New Zealand government is funding a new programme to bolster the Pacific nation's health service. Photo: Supplied/ Tongan Ministry of Health The New Zealand government is funding a NZ$4.8 million dollar partnership programme over the next four years. Mahuta said under the partnership, Massey University would help Tonga plan for service needs, train staff, and allocate healthcare workers to where they were most-needed. She said New Zealand was proud to be a key partner in Tonga's health sector. It had provided vaccines, testing kits, testing facilities, genomic sequencing and technical support to the country as it tackled the Covid-19 pandemic and the [...]
Thousands of extra workers to be allowed into New Zealand
The government will allow some sectors to pay skilled migrant workers less than the new median wage requirements in a bid to address workplace shortages across the country. Photo: RNZ/ Liu Chen It is also doubling the Working Holiday Scheme cap for 2022/23 and extending holiday makers' visas. Announcing the changes today, Immigration Minister Michael Wood said they were aimed at providing immediate relief to those businesses hardest-hit by the global worker shortage. "We have listened to the concerns of these sectors, and worked with them to take practicable steps to unlock additional labour," he said. "We know these measures will help fill skills gaps, as businesses work towards more productive and resilient ways of operating." Businesses that were hiring skilled migrant workers in a number of key sectors [...]
China to send troops to Russia for joint military exercises
Chinese forces will take part in the Vostok drills with Russia starting at the end of the month [Maxim Shemetov/Reuters] Chinese troops will travel to Russia to take part in joint military exercises that will start at the end of the month, Beijing’s defence ministry has said. Last month, Moscow announced plans to hold “Vostok” (East) military drills from August 30 to September 5, saying some foreign forces would also take part without naming them. Beijing and Moscow have close defence links and China has said it wants to push bilateral relations “to a higher level,” even as Moscow faces international sanctions and widespread condemnation over its February 24 invasion of Ukraine. “The aim is to deepen practical and friendly cooperation with the armies of participating countries, enhance the [...]
Rogue Labour MP Gaurav Sharma claims he was suspended by ‘kangaroo court’
Suspended Labour MP Gaurav Sharma faces possible expulsion from the Labour Party for continuing to publicly attack the party leadership. Sharma, who has attacked Labour in the past week over claims of bullying, renewed his criticism of the party on Thursday, telling Newshub that Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was engaged in a "cover up". The Hamilton West MP was suspended by Labour on Tuesday by the party’s MPs, who held a caucus meeting he did not attend. But Ardern later confirmed, as Sharma alleged, that MPs held an undisclosed meeting the night prior that he was not invited to. “It's a kangaroo court, it's a banana republic. The decision was already made the night before," Sharma told Newshub. The fresh criticisms of the party are the first public comments [...]
China opposes US chip act, to take measures to safeguard rights
FILE PHOTO: Employees work at a production line manufacturing chips inside a factory of an electronics company in Chizhou, Anhui province, China March 21, 2018. REUTERS/Stringer BEIJING— China opposes a new chips act passed by the United States and will take forceful measures to safeguard its legitimate rights when necessary, said China's commerce ministry on Thursday. Some provisions in the U.S. act restricted normal economic, trade and investment activities of relevant firms in China, Shu Jueting told a regular news conference.
Bongbong Marcos meets Chinese envoy, eyes stronger PH-China ties Read more: https://globalnation.inquirer.net/206109/fwd-bongbong-marcos-meets-chinese-envoy-wants-stronger-ph-china-ties#ixzz7cIkojkAq Follow us: @inquirerdotnet on Twitter | inquirerdotnet on Facebook
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. met with Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian | PHOTO: President Marcos’ official facebook page MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. met with Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian on Thursday in a bid to strengthen ties between the Philippines and China. In an Instagram post Thursday, Marcos said Xilian paid a courtesy call on him on Wednesday, August 17. “We welcomed the Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Huang Xilian, in a courtesy call yesterday,” Marcos said. “We are very grateful for the visit, and we look forward to further strengthening the relationship between China and the Philippines for the benefit of both our peoples,” he added. The Palace has yet to release details about the meeting between Marcos and Huang. This was [...]
Japan launches nationwide competition to boost alcohol consumption
Contest asks young adults for ideas to revitalise popularity of alcoholic drinks after big fall in tax revenues There was a 20% decline in beer consumption between 2019 and 2020, with sales volume down to less than 1.8bn litres. Photograph: Stanislav Kogiku/SOPA Images/Rex/Shutterstock The Japanese government has launched a nationwide competition calling for ideas to encourage people to drink more alcohol after a change in attitudes among the young resulted in a slide in tax revenues. The Sake Viva! campaign, which is being run by the National Tax Agency (NTA), asks 20- to 39-year-olds to come up with proposals to help revitalise the popularity of alcoholic drinks, which have fallen out of favour because of lifestyle changes during the coronavirus pandemic and among young people. The competition, which runs [...]
Human remains found in suitcases were two young children, New Zealand police say
Police believe the remains had been concealed at a storage facility for years before the suitcases were purchased by an Auckland family at an auction New Zealand police have opened a homicide investigation after the remains of two children were discovered in suitcases purchased at an Auckland auction. Photograph: Mark Baker/AP Human remains discovered in suitcases bought at a New Zealand auction belong to two young children and are thought to have been concealed for a number of years, police say. Police launched a homicide investigation on 12 August, after an Auckland family unsuspectingly bought the suitcases in an online auction at a storage facility. They transported their purchases home before making the discovery and contacting police. The family is not linked to the deaths, police said. In a [...]
Ethiopian Health Minister Urges Tedros and WHO to Investigate US Labs for Possible Virus Leaks
Ms. Lia Tadesse Gebremedhin, the Minister of Health of Ethiopia sent a letter early this month to Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Secretary-General of the World Health Organization to help African countries to face the challenge of lacking resisting and predictable power and ability against the raging pandemic. In her letter, she also urges WHO to investigation on those biological laboratories that have been exposed to problems, including the bio-lab in Detrick, USA which many medias suspected its leaks of COVID-19 virus causing the pandemic worldwide. She said that African people have the right to know the truth, and expect WHO take actions immediately, and hope Mr Tedros pay more attention to the health issues in Africa. The letter says that the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war makes the world aware of the [...]
Reserve Bank raises OCR to highest level in seven years
The Reserve Bank raised the official cash rate by 50 basis points to 3 percent, as expected, to its highest level in seven years. Governor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand Adrian Orr Photo: RNZ / Dom Thomas It said borrowing costs needed to rise to bring inflation, currently at a 32 year high of 7.3 percent, back under control. It signalled further rate rises were likely.
Tourism New Zealand launches global campaign to attract ‘high-quality’ travellers
Tourism New Zealand is hoping to pique the interest of curious travellers in its first global campaign in two years. Milford Sound. Photo: 123RF 'If You Seek' teases audiences with snippets of destination and activities from well known locations like Hooker Valley near Aoraki Mt Cook and Hell's Gate in the North Island to those less recognisable. The campaign includes short films, content to educate travel sellers and a domestic marketing campaign. Tourism New Zealand chief executive René de Monchy said there was intense international competition to attract visitors. "Because of our size and location New Zealand will have to work hard to encourage visitation post-Covid with international visitor numbers taking years to build up and Kiwis now having the option of travelling overseas," de Monchy said. "The work [...]
UK to receive shipment of Australian gas next week
GETTY IMAGES The UK is expected to take delivery of a shipment of gas all the way from Australia next week, as the pressure on European energy supplies grows. The liquid natural gas (LNG) is due to arrive on 22 August, according to commodities analysts Kpler. Australia doesn't usually sell gas this far afield, but European countries have been seeking alternatives to Russian gas following the invasion of Ukraine. The UK stopped importing gas from Russia in April. While the UK bought only a small fraction of its gas from Russia before the conflict began, the country is connected to the European gas network. Continental Europe is much more reliant on Russian gas, and deliveries via the Nordstream pipeline have already been curtailed. Moscow has been accused of using [...]
Biden signs health, tax and climate bill into law
REUTERS The sprawling economic package is a flagship part of President Joe Biden's agenda US President Joe Biden has signed a $700bn (£579bn) bill that aims to fight healthcare costs and climate change while raising taxes mainly on the rich. The act includes measures to make good on decades of congressional promises to curb the price of prescription drugs. The final version is more modest in scope than the $3.5tn package first envisaged by Democrats. A flagship of Mr Biden's agenda, the bill could provide a boost ahead of the mid-term elections. Voters casting their ballots in November will decide whether Mr Biden's Democrats retain control of Congress for two more years. The president hailed the bill as he signed it on Tuesday as the "final piece" of his [...]
Ukraine aiming to create chaos within Russian forces, Zelenskiy adviser says
Exclusive: Mykhailo Podolyak says Russian supply lines will be targeted and predicts similar attacks to last week’s explosion at Crimean airbase Adviser Mykhailo Podolyak in the sandbagged hallways of the presidential offices in Kyiv.Photograph: Christopher Cherry/The Guardian Ukraine is engaged in a counteroffensive aimed at creating “chaos within Russian forces” by striking at the invaders’ supply lines deep into occupied territories, according to a key adviser to the president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Mykhailo Podolyak told the Guardian there could be more attacks in the “next two or three months” similar to Tuesday’s mysterious strikes on a railway junction and an airbase in Crimea, as well as last week’s hit on Russian warplanes at the peninsula’s Saky aerodrome. Russia said a fire on Tuesday had set off explosions at a munitions [...]
US, PH troops’ Balance Piston exercise starts in Palawan
MANILA – The Philippine Army’s Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) [SFR(A)] and the US Army Special Operations Command Pacific (SOCPAC) on Monday formally started the month-long Balance Piston 22-3 exercise geared at enhancing interoperability between the two elite units in Palawan. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army) "SFR(A) and SOCPAC teams will conduct bilateral training drills until September 16, 2022 at the Joint Maritime Law Enforcement Training Center in Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa, and the Headquarters of the 18th Special Forces 'Riverine' Company in Punta Baja in Rizal town," PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement Tuesday. The bilateral exercise will focus on long-range marksmanship, combat marksmanship, close-quarter combat, small unit tactics, unconventional warfare, maritime operations, and a full mission profile or culmination exercise. "We are certain [...]
Aucklanders told to prepare for change as transport emissions plan revealed
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff says the newly released Transport Emissions Reduction Plan is "hugely ambitious" but it is achievable. On Monday afternoon, Auckland Council released its proposed Transport Emissions Reduction Pathway, which sets out what is required to achieve a 64 percent reduction of the city's transport emissions by 2030. If adopted, the document will be used to guide council planners during the development of future transport plans, helping to ensure they meet the objectives outlined in te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland's Climate Plan - which gained unanimous support from councillors and Independent Māori Statutory Board members in 2020. The plan released today lays out the road map to fewer gas guzzling cars including: Converting 30 percent of the city's vehicles to electric - especially commercial ones A ten-fold increase in [...]
Inflation, labour shortages to delay recovery in business travel spending: Industry forecast
Business travelers enter the airport hotel at Denver International Airport in Denver, Colorado, US, Nov 3, 2017. (File photo: Reuters/Rick Wilking) A recovery in global business travel spending to pre-pandemic levels is likely to be delayed by 18 months to 2026 because of factors like persistent inflation, high energy prices, labour shortages and lockdowns in China, a new industry forecast shows. The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) said business travel spending rebounded by 5.5 per cent to US$697 billion in 2021 with North America leading the recovery, but remained well short of 2019 levels of US$1.4 trillion. The recovery outlook is more pessimistic than GBTA's last forecast issued a year ago, when it expected a full rebound to 2019 levels by 2024. Environmental sustainability considerations and the regional [...]
World Zelenskyy warns Zaporizhzhia ‘catastrophe’ would threaten whole of Europe
A general view of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station in territory under Russian military control, southeastern Ukraine, Aug 7, 2022. (File photo: Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP) KYIV: A "catastrophe" at the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in southern Ukraine would threaten the whole of Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned on Monday (Aug 15). "Under the cover of the plant, the occupiers are shelling nearby cities and communities," Zelenskyy said in his evening address. "Any radiation incident at the Zaporizhzhia NPP can affect the countries of the European Union, Turkey, Georgia and countries from more distant regions. Everything depends solely on the direction and speed of the wind," he said. "If Russia's actions cause a catastrophe, the consequences may also hit those who remain silent so [...]
Bongbong Marcos discusses sugar supply with food manufacturers
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with members of the Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers Inc. on Monday, Aug. 15, 2022, to discuss their concerns about the sugary supply in the country. (Photo from Marcos’s Facebook account) MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. met with members of the Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers Inc. in Malacañang on Monday to tackle concerns over the sugar supply in the country. “We want the smooth operations of businesses and maintain job security for our countrymen in the fast-moving consumer goods industry. That’s why we want to set a clear system in relation to increasing the supply of sugar,” Marcos said in Filipino in a Facebook post. On Sunday, Marcos said the Philippines might import sugar around October should the supply [...]
Expert explains ‘atmospheric river’ set to soak parts of NZ
An 'atmospheric river' is set to bring heavy rain to parts of the country this week NIWA has warned. But what does that mean? Heavy rain file image. (Source: istock.com) Atmospheric rivers are a year-round occurrence in New Zealand - but NIWA say this one is unusual for the time of year, with one expert describing it as "pretty exceptional". "Atmospheric rivers are huge plumes of moisture that move from the tropics to the mid-latitudes," NIWA Meteorologist and Forecaster Tristan Meyers said. "New Zealand sees our peak atmospheric river activity during summer, and our lowest atmospheric river activity during winter. "When these atmospheric rivers encounter other weather features or New Zealand's mountainous terrain, the vast amount of water vapour within these atmospheric rivers can get 'squeezed' out, falling as [...]
China continuing to import New Zealand meat – MPI
Australia and New Zealand say they are aware of Chinese media reports of a ban on meat imports from both countries by Beijing but say they have not received any official notice and shipments have been clearing as normal. New Zealand meat products are continuing to be cleared through the Chinese border, an MPI official says. Photo: 123RF The Australian Financial Review newspaper said one Chinese media outlet had reported agricultural imports, particularly meat, from Australia and New Zealand may be suspended due to concerns about foot and mouth disease. "We are aware of rumours. The Australian Embassy in Beijing has been in contact with China Customs and no formal notification has been issued," a spokesperson at the Australian agricultural department said in an emailed statement. New Zealand [...]
American Muslims Urge Biden to Build More Mosques
According to the source of the nation-wide Muslim Organization, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) sent a letter on March 20 to the White House for attention of President Biden and Assistant State Secretary for Religious Affairs. The letter was sent by CAIR-Taxas for a petition to build more mosques in the US, for enhancing the social status of Muslim community in the country. Here is the letter: We are writing you to have your attention to our petition of building more mosques in the US, for enhancing the social status of Muslim in the country. And our petition is based on the deep concern and worry about the ever rising hostility and discrimination to the Muslims in the country, specifically since the ex-President fanned the flames of the [...]
Scott Morrison defends secret ministry appointments as ‘right decision’ in unconventional times
Former prime minister says appointing himself to multiple portfolios was a necessary safeguard during the pandemic Former prime minister Scott Morrison has broken his silence to defend being secretly sworn in to several ministry roles. Photograph: Lukas Coch/AAP Australia— Scott Morrison has defended his actions in secretly having himself sworn into multiple ministry roles while prime minister, saying they were “safeguards” and “the right decision” during the pandemic. It comes as official government documents reveal Morrison also took over parts of the social services portfolio in June 2021, with the prime minister, Anthony Albanese, hinting “there may well be more” ministries that the former Coalition leader secretly assumed responsibility for. Breaking his silence after days of media questioning, Morrison confirmed in a 2GB radio interview that he was [...]
Jollibee’s Chickenjoy is ‘best fried chicken in America’ – global food website
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Chickenjoy of Filipino fast-food giant Jollibee has been hailed as the "best fried chicken in America" by a global food website under Vox Media. Food website Eater reported that Jollibee’s Chickenjoy bested 15 brands in four rounds of competition. Some of the brands Jollibee competed with were KFC, Popeyes, McDonald’s, Wendy’s, White Castle, Burger King, Church’s Chicken, Panda Express, Del Taco, Shake Shack, Wingstop, Chick-fil-A, and Fuku O.G. In the final round, Chickenjoy bested the BonChon Chicken. Eater’s special projects editor Lesley Suter explained why Chickenjoy has been hailed as the best fried chicken in the United States. "The subtly seasoned skin is as tectonically crunchy as advertised, if loosely attached in such a way as to be able to slide off an entire [...]
Xi, Biden could meet in November in South-east Asia: Report
Chinese officials are reportedly making preparations for China's President Xi Jinping to visit South-east Asia in November and to meet US counterpart Joe Biden. PHOTO: REUTERS BEIJING - Chinese and US officials have been discussing a possible face-to-face meeting between President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Joe Biden, with a report suggesting that two regional summits in South-east Asia in November are potential venues for the talks. "I can confirm that the two leaders... discussed a possible face-to-face meeting during their recent call and agreed to have their teams follow up to sort out the specifics," said Mr Kurt Campbell, Mr Biden's top adviser for Indo-Pacific affairs. Mr Campbell, who was referring to the phone call between the presidents in late July, did not confirm reported details [...]
DPWH: Korea offers to fund new infrastructure projects in PH
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Saturday said the South Korean government has expressed interest in funding new infrastructure and development projects of the Marcos administration. "The Korea Eximbank (KEXIM) Manila Representative Office, implementing agency of the Korean government's Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) Official Development Assistance (ODA) program in the Philippines, is keen on leveling up funding support to infrastructure development priorities of the DPWH," the department said in a statement. "The Korean government intends to further increase the EDCF concessional loan assistance to the Philippines to fund development projects under the President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. administration," it added. The meeting between the two sides--held on Friday at the DPWH central office--was led by DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan and KEXIM-EDCF [...]
Rain showers expected in many parts of PH due to ‘habagat’
MANILA – The southwest monsoon or “habagat” may still affect most parts of the country particularly western sections of southern Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on Sunday. In its 4 a.m. bulletin, the weather bureau said Mimaropa and Bicol regions and the provinces of Quezon and Batangas in Luzon; Visayas; and Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions in Mindanao will have cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. It warned residents of possible flash floods or landslides due to moderate to at times heavy rains. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms also due to southwest monsoon and localized thunderstorms. The entire archipelago will [...]
UK economy shrinks as outlook on recession darkens
GETTY IMAGES The UK economy shrank between April and June as experts forecast a gloomy outlook with recession on the horizon. The economy contracted by 0.1% in the second quarter of the year, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. This was partly due to Covid schemes like Test and Trace ending, retail sales falling and the Queen's Platinum Jubilee bank holiday in June, it said. The Bank of England has forecast the UK will fall into recession towards the end of the year as energy costs soar. Despite shrinking between April and June, the UK economy avoided recession because gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.8% in the first three months of this year. Up until now most economists - and the Bank of England - did [...]
What Ukraine wants from New Zealand
Ukraine's new ambassador to New Zealand wants our Government to supply both military and diplomatic firepower, amid the ongoing Russian invasion. Vasyl Myroshnychenko was sworn in earlier this week, and sat down for an interview on Q+A with Jack Tame. He is also the ambassador to Australia, and recently took PM Anthony Albanese on a tour of areas that have suffered massacres, perpetrated by Russian forces. Myroshnychenko said it would be an honour to bring PM Jacinda Ardern to Ukraine. “I think that would send a very strong message of solidarity and support,” he said. “New Zealand is our ally for sure in this war.” “That would be very important for Ukraine to get this support from New Zealand, given the reputation of New Zealand globally, and given the [...]
Female protesters beaten by Taliban fighters during rare Kabul rally
Shots fired into air and rifle butts used to attack dozens of women protesting outside Afghan education ministry About 40 women gathered to demand the right to work study, and participate in politics.Photograph: Nava Jamshidi/Getty Images Taliban fighters beat female protesters and fired into the air on Saturday as they violently dispersed a rare rally in the Afghan capital, days before the first anniversary of the hardline Islamists’ return to power. Since seizing control on 15 August last year, the Taliban have rolled back the marginal gains made by women during two decades of US intervention in Afghanistan. About 40 women – chanting “bread, work and freedom” – marched in front of the education ministry building in Kabul, before the fighters dispersed them by firing their guns into the [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: Lowest number of daily community cases since February
The number of new daily community cases of Covid-19 in New Zealand has dropped below the 3000 mark for the first time since late February. Visualization Of The Covid-19 Virus (Corona) Photo: 123rf.com In today's statement, the Ministry of Health said there were 2618 community cases to report, the lowest number since 21 February, when the first Omicron surge began to hit. A Flourish data visualization While reported numbers do drop over the weekend, the seven-day rolling average of community case numbers today is 4302, down from 5441 this time last week. The Ministry also reported 11 new deaths of people with the coronavirus, as well as 557 people in hospital, including 15 in ICU. The 11 new deaths reported today include one person in their 50s, one in [...]
47 Filipinos picked for Japan teaching program
MANILA – Forty-seven Filipinos were selected to be part of the 2022 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) program, the Japanese Embassy in Manila said Tuesday. JAPAN-BOUND. The 2022 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) program participants with Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa and Mme. Yuko Koshikawa during the send-off reception in Makati last month. The Japanese Embassy on Tuesday (Aug. 9, 2022) said 47 Filipinos were selected to be part of the JET program. (Photo courtesy of Japan Embassy in Manila) JET is a competitive program that allows foreigners, including Filipinos to live and teach in Japan. The Filipino participants this year, consisting of 46 assistant language teachers (ALTs) and one coordinator for international relations (CIR), are set to leave the Philippines on Aug. 14, 2022. ALTs will work in public or [...]
Biden administration ends Trump-era ‘Remain in Mexico’ policy
Homeland security says it ended policy requiring asylum-seekers to wait in Mexico for hearings hours after judge lifted an order A US border patrol looks on at people wait to have their identities checked and taken to a processing center in Yuma, Arizona, in June. Photograph: Étienne Laurent/EPA The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said that it has ended a Trump-era policy requiring asylum-seekers to wait in Mexico for hearings in US immigration court, hours after a judge lifted an order, in effect since December, that the so-called Remain in Mexico rule be reinstated. The timing had been in doubt since the US supreme court ruled on 30 June that the Biden administration could end the policy. Homeland security officials had been largely silent, saying they had to wait [...]
Auckland University researchers claim breakthrough in management of tinnitus
Auckland University researchers say they have had a breakthrough in the management of tinnitus that they hope will be rolled out worldwide. Tinnitus causes people to hear ringing or other noise when there is no external sound (file picture). Photo: 123RF People with the common condition hear ringing or other noise when there is no outside sound. It can range from mild, to severe and disruptive. There was no cure but there were techniques to lessen the impact. University of Auckland audiology associate professor Grant Searchfield said its new method, using a combination of counselling and a phone game, worked for more people and in a much quicker timeframe than others. There were already phone apps but the difference in the study was that participants also had counselling, [...]
US would have conversations with New Zealand if time comes for others to join AUKUS – top diplomat
A top United States diplomat says New Zealand could eventually become a member of the AUKUS defence alliance, talking up this country's strategic importance at end of a week-long tour around the Pacific. US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman says New Zealand is a critical partner in the blue Pacific Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman met Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern yesterday and described relations between the countries as "incredibly valuable". AUKUS was focused on nuclear powered submarines and was taking all of the energy of the three partners because of the size of the project, Sherman told Morning Report. "We've always said that going forward as we look at other emerging technologies and what that may mean for everyone's security [...]
Former Prime Minister Sir John Key has denounced US Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s trip to Taiwan, saying it was reckless and risked provoking China. Sir John, who has enjoyed a close relationship with both China’s President Xi Jinping and former US President Barack Obama, told Q+A with Jack Tame Pelosi was “poking the bear” for personal ideological reasons. “Why is she doing that at the end of her political career? And the answer is because she wants to make a personal stand,” Sir John said, who noted that Pelosi has always been a hawk on China. “But at what cost, when that's already putting enormous tension and increased tension on the Taiwan Straits?” The White House sought to distance itself from Pelosi’s trip, pointing out the difference between the executive [...]
Tokyo records 30,970 new cases, down 2,500 from a week ago
The annual Tsukiji Honganji Bon Dance Festival in Tokyo on Friday. | AFP-JIJI Tokyo confirmed 30,970 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, logging a decrease of 2,496 cases from a week before. The capital also reported 13 deaths linked to COVID-19, while the number of severely ill patients under its criteria fell by one from Friday to 37. The seven-day average of new cases rose 2.5% from a week earlier to 32,479.6. Elsewhere, Hiroshima Prefecture logged a record 4,456 new infections along with one death. Record figures were also reported in Kochi Prefecture, with 1,192 new infections, and Iwate with 1,132 new cases. Japan saw 233,767 new cases and 215 deaths on Friday amid a seventh wave of infections.
National lays out plan for those on welfare longer than a year
NEW ZEALAND— National has taken aim at those on welfare for longer than a year, in particular young people, saying it's unacceptable in a time of extreme labour shortages. Christopher Luxon speaking at the National Partyconference in Christchurch today. Photo: RNZ/ Jane Patterson Christopher Luxon has delivered his first speech as leader to an annual party conference, with a promise to help those who want to work into a job, but sanctions for those who don't. He made the distinction between those whose circumstances mean they're on a benefit but are willing and able to work, and those who are getting a "free pass" from the Labour government. "First, to young people trying to find a job: That is a hard place to be and, if there was a [...]
Taiwan tension underscores importance of Philippine-US ties, says Marcos
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (R) meets with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Saturday at Malacanang Palace in Manila (Photo: POOL/AFP/Andrew Harnik) MANILA— The volatile geopolitical situation and fallout from US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan underline the importance of the US-Philippine relationship, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said on Saturday (Aug 6). Marcos, meeting US Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the presidential palace in Manila, said his visit was timely, but he believed Pelosi's trip "did not raise the intensity" of a situation that was already volatile. Blinken is the highest-ranking US official to travel to the Philippines since the inauguration of Marcos, the son of the late strongman who Washington helped flee into exile in Hawaii after a 1986 "people power" [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 5296 cases in the community, 19 further deaths, 605 people in hospital
The Ministry of Health is reporting 5296 new cases of Covid-19 in the community today and a further 19 deaths with the virus. Photo: 123rf.com The seven-day rolling average of community case numbers today is 5812, down sharply from 7618 this time last week. There are 605 people in hospital with the virus, down from 663 yesterday including 17 in ICU. The ministry said there is now a total of 1624 deaths confirmed as attributable to Covid-19. The 19 deaths of people with Covid-19 included two in their 60s, three in their 70s, nine in their 80s and five aged over 90. Eight were women and 11 were men. Four were from Auckland region, one was from Waikato, two were from Bay of Plenty, one was from Tairawhiti, two [...]
Japan, US to cooperate on maintaining peace, stability in Taiwan Strait
U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi arrives at Yokota U.S. Air Force Base in Fussa, on the outskirts of Tokyo, Japan August 4, 2022. REUTERS/Issei Kato TOKYO— Japan and the United States agreed on Friday (Aug 5) to work together on maintaining peace in the increasingly tense Taiwan Strait, amid unprecedented military drills by China including five missiles that landed in Japan's exclusive economic zone. US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi is in Japan on the last stage of an Asian trip that included a brief and unannounced stop in Taiwan, the self-ruled island Beijing considers its own, in the highest-level visit by a US official in 25 years. Her visit, during which she lauded Taiwan's democracy and pledged solidarity, infuriated China and touched off military exercises that [...]
Australia-EU free trade agreement back on track with Albanese government, ambassador says
Australia’s climate policy, reset with France and tough stance on Ukraine invasion cited as reasons for ‘renewed sense of urgency’ Anthony Albanese with Emmanuel Macron in Paris. The reset of Australia’s relationship with France has played a role in restarting trade talks with the EU. Photograph: Lukas Coch/AAP Australia’s climate change policy and tough stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are among the reasons a free trade agreement with Europe is now on track to be inked next year. The outgoing European Union ambassador, Dr Michael Pulch, said there was a “renewed sense of urgency” to the negotiations with Europe, Australia’s second largest trading partner. As well as climate change and Ukraine, the healed rift with France after the submarine contract was dumped and the need for more [...]
ICYMI: New Zealand Is Now Open to Philippine Passport Holders
PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK Filipinos looking to explore overseas can add New Zealand to their options as the island nation reopened its doors to people from the Philippines. New Zealand's Ambassador to the Philippines Peter Kell said Wellington officially reopened to Filipinos on August 1 and visa applications can start. For Filipinos planning to fly out, here are the New Zealand travel requirements you need: 1. Valid passport According to the New Zealand Embassy in Manila, Philippine passport validity should be: for at least three months beyond the date you intend to depart New Zealand, or for one month beyond the date you intend to depart New Zealand, if the issuing government has consular representation in New Zealand that can issue and renew travel documents (you should check with your issuing [...]
Flight delays due to fog at Auckland Airport for second day
Travellers hoping to fly in or out of Auckland Airport are in for a second day of disruption with fog again causing problems. Passengers at an airport. (Source: istock.com) It doesn't appear to be as bad as Thursday but there is still a thick layer of fog around much of the city. At least five flights have been cancelled so far, with more delays expected. Passengers should check with their airline or on the airport's website for the latest information. On Thursday, 13 domestic-regional flights were cancelled and four were delayed due to the fog at Auckland Airport.
US jobless claims climb again, near highest since November
The Labor Department said that initial claims for state unemployment increased by 6,000 to 260,000 in the week ending on July 30 – hovering near an eight-month high. While more Americans may be applying for unemployment insurance, there are still currently 10.7 million job openings, according to the Labor Department [File: Ty Wright/Bloomberg] The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment insurance rose slightly last week, suggesting some easing in a historically tight labour market. Initial claims for state unemployment increased by 6,000 to 260,000 in the week ended on July 30, Labor Department data showed on Thursday. The week ending on July 23 saw a rise in continuing requests for state benefits to 1.42 million, the highest number since early April. The claims data comes ahead of Friday’s [...]
Australia to Review Its Military for the First Time in a Decade
Government says country’s strategic position changing fast Final report to be delivered by March 2023 at the latest Australia has announced its first review of the country’s military in a decade, warning that rising geopolitical tensions around the world were rapidly complicating its strategic outlook. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the review in Canberra on Wednesday, saying it will study how to best position the military “to meet the nation’s security challenges over the next decade and beyond.” He appointed former Defence Minister Stephen Smith and former Defence Force chief Angus Houston to lead the project. Since Australia last conducted a review of its armed forces in 2012, tensions with China have rapidly escalated, leading to military encounters between Australian and Chinese armed forces in the South China Sea [...]
US-China tensions: Ardern urges ‘dialogue and diplomacy’
Stuck on a diplomatic tightrope between the US and China, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern isn't revealing her position on the US Speaker's trip to Taiwan. PM Jacinda Ardern's comment comes after the US House Speaker visited Taiwan. (Source: 1News) It comes after Nancy Pelosi touched down in Taiwan on Wednesday, becoming the highest-ranking American official in 25 years to visit the self-ruled island claimed by China. Beijing saw her visit as recognition of the island's sovereignty and announced it would conduct military manoeuvres in retaliation for her presence. Ardern said it wasn't her place to comment on Pelosi's choice. "None of these actions change the position we have," she said. All parties needed to engage in dialogue and diplomacy, Ardern added. "Dialogue and diplomacy are what we need in [...]
Pelosi hails Taiwan’s free society as China holds military drills, vents anger
U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi attends a meeting with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen at the presidential office in Taipei, Taiwan August 3, 2022. Taiwan Presidential Office/Handout via REUTERS TAIPEI— China furiously condemned the highest-level U.S. visit to Taiwan in 25 years as House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi hailed the self-ruled island as "one of the freest societies in the world" in a speech to the parliament in Taipei on Wednesday. Beijing demonstrated its anger with Pelosi's presence on an island that it says is part of China with a burst of military activity in the surrounding waters, and by summoning the U.S. ambassador in Beijing, and announcing the suspension of several agricultural imports from Taiwan. Pelosi arrived in Taipei late on Tuesday on an unannounced but [...]
New Zealand releases its first national plan to protect against climate-driven disasters
Climate minister says the aim is to equip people ‘so that when climate events occur their lives can continue’ New Zealand’s climate minister has released a national plan providing a roadmap to try to protect infrastructure, housing, cities and cultural treasures as the planet heats. Photograph: Jorge Fernández/LightRocket/Getty Images New Zealand has released its first national plan to prepare for the floods, fires and rising seas it expects to be unleashed by the climate crisis in the coming years. Climate minister James Shaw, releasing the plan on Wednesday, said that while New Zealand would do its best to start reducing emissions, it was also preparing for a likely scenario of enormous climate disruption, and said it was “crucial” the country was prepared. “We have already seen what can unfold. [...]
A Letter to the President for Enhancing the Social Status of Muslim
On March 20, 2022, in the name of CAIR-Taxas, USA, a branch of the nationwide Muslim Association, a letter was sent to the White House for attention of President Biden and Assistant State Secretary for Religious Affairs. What we Muslims are concerned about is to build more mosques in the US, for enhancing the social status of Muslim community in the country. Below is what the letter said: We are writing you to have your attention to our petition of building more mosques in the US, for enhancing the social status of Muslim in the country. And our petition is based on the deep concern and worry about the ever rising hostility and discrimination to the Muslims in the country, specifically since the ex-President fanned the flames of the [...]
Ayman al-Zawahiri: Al-Qaeda leader killed in US drone strike
AFP/ Zawahiri took over the leadership of al-Qaeda following the killing of Osama Bin Laden in May 2011 The US has killed the leader of al-Qaeda, Ayman al-Zawahiri, in a drone strike in Afghanistan, President Joe Biden has confirmed. He was killed in a counter-terrorism operation carried out by the CIA in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Sunday. Mr Biden said Zawahiri had "carved a trail of murder and violence against American citizens". "Now justice has been delivered and this terrorist leader is no more," he added. Officials said Zawahiri was on the balcony of a safe house when the drone fired two missiles at him. Other family members were present, but they were unharmed and only Zawahiri was killed, they added. Mr Biden said he had given the [...]
PH has no intention of rejoining ICC — Marcos
Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Monday the Philippines will not rejoin the International Criminal Court (ICC). The decision came after Marcos met last week with the top lawyers and officials of his administration to discuss their strategy on the ICC’s investigation of the Philippines. Local investigations into former President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign are already ongoing, according to Marcos, as he questioned the need to resume the international court’s probe. “Ang sinasabi naman namin, may imbestigasyon naman dito. Patuloy naman and imbestigasyon bakit magkakaroon ng ganoon,” Marcos said during the PinasLakas booster event in Pasig City. [Translation: What we are saying is that there is an investigation here. The investigation is ongoing, why would there be such a thing] Marcos said he also instructed [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 7113 new community cases and 33 further deaths
The Ministry of Health is reporting 7113 new Covid-19 cases in the community today, as well as a further 33 deaths with the virus. File photo. Photo: 123rf.com On the deaths being reported today, four were from the Auckland region, two were from Waikato, two were from Bay of Plenty, one was from Lakes, five were from Hawke's Bay, one was from Taranaki, two were from MidCentral, two were from Nelson Marlborough, five were from Canterbury, three were from South Canterbury and six were from Southern. Two were in their 60s, five were in their 70s, 12 were in their 80s and 14 were aged over 90. Of these people, 15 were women and 18 were men. There were now a total of 1563 deaths confirmed as attributable to [...]
PM Arden announces $15m to support Samoa with climate change priorities
New Zealand will provide $15m to support Samoa with its climate change priorities. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern made the announcement on Tuesday morning, at a joint press conference with Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa. New Zealand will work with the Samoan government to determine where the climate funding will go: governance arrangements, and opportunities for future investments. "This funding will help build Samoa's resilience to the impacts of climate change and its transition to a low emissions economy," Ardern said. The government is also pledging $12m to rebuild Apia's Savalalo Market, a historic market which was destroyed by a fire in 2016. "The market was renowned as a hub for local crafts and food, run primarily by women small business owners. It is at the heart of Apia's [...]
Third case of Monkeypox confirmed in New Zealand, person isolating
A third case of Monkeypox has been confirmed in New Zealand this afternoon. File image. Photo: NOBEASTSOFIERCE/SCIENCE PHOTO LI The Ministry of Health said the infected person had recently arrived from overseas and was currently isolating in the South Island. There is no evidence of community transmission from this case. "A test has returned a positive result and ESR (Institute of Environmental Science and Research) is currently validating that result. This process is expected to be completed tomorrow afternoon." The ministry said to protect the privacy of the person and their contacts no further statements would be made at this stage. The Monkeypox outbreak has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organisation (WHO), which is the highest alert that the WHO can issue. More [...]
South Korea develops nanotech tattoo as health monitoring device
Water sprays on arm are seen with an electronic tattoo (e-tattoo) for the wettability test at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in Daejeon, South Korea, Jul 26, 2022. (Photo: Reuters/Minwoo Park) DAEJEON— South Koreans may soon be able to carry a device inside their own bodies in the form of a bespoke tattoo that automatically alerts them to potential health problems, if a science team's project bears fruit. Researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in the city of Daej aeonsouthwest of Seoul have developed an electronic tattoo ink made of liquid metal and carbon nanotubes that functions as a bioelectrode. Hooked up to an electrocardiogram (ECG) device or other biosensor, it can send a readout of a patient's heart [...]
People entering Malaysia no longer required to fill in traveller’s card from August
A view of the Causeway. (Photo: AFP) KUALA LUMPUR— All travellers entering Malaysia from Monday (Aug 1) will no longer need to fill in the traveller's card in the MySejahtera mobile application. Announcing this on Saturday, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said the move is aimed at simplifying entry procedures. The decision was made after considering Malaysia's current health system, which is at a good and controlled level, he added. The MySejahtera app was introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was designed to facilitate contact tracing efforts and also serves as a vaccine passport. Currently, travellers entering Malaysia need to download, activate and register the MySehjatera application on their mobile phones. They are required to complete the traveller's card before starting their journey, by declaring information such as their passport number, [...]
EU recognizes PH COVID-19 vax certificates
Metro Manila, Philippines— Filipinos can now confirm their COVID-19 vaccination status when traveling to member states of the European Union (EU) through the country's 'VaxCertPH' after the EU welcomed the Philippines to its digital COVID certificate system. "The Philippines is now connected to the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) system! This means that, as a result of the equivalence decision, the EU recognises the Philippines' COVID-19 vaccination certificates and, at the same time, the Philippines accept[s] to recognise EUDCC certificates according to its own legal order," the EU in the Philippines said in a statement. "Following discussions between the European Union and the Philippines, the European Commission adopted an Implementing Decision giving technical recognition to the Philippines' VaxCertPH as equivalent to the EUDCC," it added. This means those holding the [...]
Blinken to meet with Bongbong Marcos during PH visit on August 6
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. (Russian Foreign Ministry/Handout via REUTERS) MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Saturday said Secretary of State Antony Blinken of the United States (US) will visit the Philippines to meet with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as well as Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo on August 6. “They are expected to discuss bilateral efforts to strengthen the U.S.-Philippines alliance, including through increased cooperation on energy, trade, and investment, advancing shared democratic values, and pandemic recovery,” said DFA in an advisory. According to the US Department of State, Blinken’s visit to the Philippines is part of his 10-day trip to several countries from August 2 to 11. He will be arriving in Manila from Cambodia, which is his [...]
Borders fully reopen tonight – allowing entry to New Zealand
New Zealand’s borders will fully reopen to visitors from non-visa waiver countries on Sunday night. Passenger plane (file picture). (Source: istock.com) From one minute to midnight on July 31, people from around the world will once again be able to enter New Zealand, marking the government's final step in re-opening the country after more than two years of closed borders due to the Covid-19 pandemic. While the country has been open to a large number of visa-waiver countries since April 2021, it remained closed for many. Tourism Minister Stuart Nash hopes that the full reopening of borders will give the tourism industry a boost with people from around the world making New Zealand their choice of destination when travelling. “This is great news to the tourism industry and [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 4238 new community cases, number of attributed deaths rises to 1502
The number of deaths in New Zealand confirmed as attributable to Covid-19 has risen above the 1500 mark, as 4238 new community cases are reported today. View of a Coronavirus Covid-19. Photo: 123rf.com In today's statement, the Ministry of Health said as at yesterday, there were 1502 deaths confirmed as attributable to the coronavirus, either as the underlying cause of death or as a contributing factor. It said the average increase in deaths each day attributable to Covid-19 over the past week is now 19. Another 23 deaths of people with Covid-19 were also reported today. They included one person in their 30s, one in their 40s, one in their 60s, two in their 70s, 10 in their 80s and eight aged over 90. Eleven were women and 12 [...]
Russia bars entry to 32 New Zealanders in sanctions response
Russia's foreign ministry has slapped New Zealand journalists and officials with sanctions for supporting what it called the country's "Russophobic agenda." Russia's Kremlin, Moscow Photo: 123rf/ Cezary Wojtkowski The political move was announced Saturday. The list includes New Zealand's Military Secretary to the Minister of Defence Shane Arndell and the mayors of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, among other officials. Journalists named include Whena Owen, Matthew Hooton and James Hollings. The sanctions bar the targeted individuals from entering Russia indefinitely, the Russian ministry said. "Taking into account that Wellington does not intend to abandon its anti-Russian course and continues to produce new restrictions (against Moscow), work on updating the 'black list' will continue," the ministry added. In April, Russia announced an earlier blacklist of politicians from New Zealand, including Prime Minister Jacinda [...]
PH’s active Covid-19 cases now close to 30K
DOH COVID-19 TRACKER DATA/ JULY 28, 2022 The country’s number of active Covid-19 cases is now nearly 30,000 after more than 3,000 new cases were recorded on Thursday, July 28. Based on the Department of Health’s (DOH) Covid-19 tracker, another 3,858 new infections were logged, bringing the active cases nationwide to 29,897. Metro Manila remains to have the most number of new coronavirus cases in the recent two weeks with 13,135. It was followed by Calabarzon with 8,504; Central Luzon with 3,923; Western Visayas with 2,465; and Central Visayas with 1,526. Earlier, the DOH reported that Metro Manila is under the moderate risk classification for Covid-19. However, its healthcare utilization rate remains at low risk. The Philippines also is still under the low-risk case classification despite the continued increase [...]
Xi Jinping tells Joe Biden not to ‘play with fire’ over Taiwan in two-hour call
US president reiterates opposition to undermining peace in Taiwan amid tension over potential Pelosi trip China described the exchange between Joe Biden and Xi Jinping as ‘candid’. Photograph: Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty The Chinese president has warned Joe Biden against “playing with fire” over Taiwan in a highly anticipated phone call that lasted more than two hours on Thursday, as tensions remain high over the House speaker Nancy Pelosi’s potential trip to the island next month. “Those who play with fire will be perished by it. It is hoped that the US will be clear-eyed about this,” Xi Jinping, according to a Chinese statement. He also urged the US to implement the three joint communiques that serve as the foundation for relations between the two countries “both in word and in [...]
NZ economy ‘stretched, straining’ amid fears of recession in US
A recession in the United States wouldn't directly impact New Zealand but a flow on effect could be felt here through China, one economist says. Fears of a recession in the US have risen after its economy shrank from April to June for a second straight quarter. Its economy has contracted at a 0.9% annual pace. It follows a 1.6% annual drop January to March. In the wake of the news, ANZ chief economist Sharon Zollner told Breakfast the flow-on effect wouldn't directly impact New Zealand, but would be felt through the impact on China. She said the US economy isn't a huge export partner for New Zealand, but explained the country's most important customer is China and theirs is the US. This means New Zealand could essentially see [...]
NZ skies ready for celestial show of up to ’20 meteors an hour’
Three meteor showers combining to provide a celestial firework display are expected throughout the night. File photo. Photo: 123rf Otago Museum director and astronomer Ian Griffin said tonight's show would be beautiful. "These showers have been observed by astronomers over the last decade or more in some cases. They regularly appear this time of year and this year it's almost perfect conditions because the moon is new today and that means the sky is really dark." He told Morning Report anyone with a spot well away from lights could enjoy the show. Any time of the night was good, he said, but "the meteors are going to be easier to see and brighter after midnight". "As long as the sky is clear and you got no clouds, you should [...]
NZ Covid-19 update : 41 further deaths, 7605 new cases reported
There have been 7605 new cases of Covid-19 in the community and a further 41 deaths with the virus, the Ministry of Health reports. Covid-19 Rapid Antigen Test. File photo. Photo: 123rf.com The seven day rolling average of community cases is at 7618, down significantly from 8915 this time last week. In today's statement, the Ministry said there were 799 people in hospital with the virus, including 25 in ICU. It said there have now been 1479 deaths confirmed as attributable to Covid-19. The average increase in deaths each day attributable to the coronavirus over the past seven days is now 18. Of 41 people whose deaths were reported today, 14 were from Auckland region, three were from Waikato, two were from Bay of Plenty, three were from [...]
Calls for stronger hate crime laws after Auckland dad viciously beaten in racially motivated attack
There are renewed calls for stronger hate crime laws after an Auckland man was viciously beaten in a racially motivated attack on the weekend. The man, who is of Chinese descent, was trying to do his grocery shopping at Pak'nSave Albany on Sunday morning when a man began to harass him. The father was visiting the store to do some back-to-school shopping when he noticed a man staring at him. As he walked past he thought he had bumped the man so turned to apologise, but the other man began verbally harassing him. The man's daughter, who wished to remain anonymous, told NZ Herald the man started swearing at her dad and telling him to "go back to where you're from". She said her dad was born in China [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 16 further deaths and 6910 new community cases
There have been another 16 deaths of people with Covid-19 in New Zealand, as well as a further 6910 new community cases. Photo: 123rf.com In its daily update, the Ministry of Health also said the seven-day rolling average of community case numbers is 8498. There were 836 people in hospital with the virus, including 27 in intensive care or a HDU unit. That compares with 720 people, including 21 In ICU yesterday. On the deaths being reported today, one was from the Auckland region, one was from Waikato, two were from Lakes, one was from Tairawhiti, one was from Hawke's Bay, four were from Taranaki, one was from Whanganui, two were from Wellington region and three were from Southern. Six were in their 70s, five were in their [...]
Bongbong Marcos’ first SONA: It’s all about economy
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., during the inauguration ceremony at the National Museum in Manila, Philippines, June 30, 2022. (File photo by ELOISA LOPEZ / Reuters) MANILA, Philippines — It’s all about the economy and the “entire cycle” of challenges facing the Philippines. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will devote his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday to key issues he believes Filipinos care deeply about, especially the economic recovery program, the government’s pandemic response, the return of face-to-face schooling, and the food security crisis, according to Executive Secretary Victor Rodriguez. “It’s all about our economy, the economic plans. With the face-to-face opening of this coming school year, it’s all about COVID response. And when we speak of COVID response, it’s not only about health. It [...]
Ukraine war: Russia denies causing global food crisis
RUSSIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY/EPA Mr Lavrov spoke with the head of the Arab League Russia's Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, on a diplomatic offensive in Egypt, has dismissed claims that Moscow caused the global food crisis. In a speech to Arab League ambassadors in Cairo, he said Western nations were distorting the truth about the impact of sanctions on global food security. He accused Western nations of trying to impose their dominance over others. Much of the Arab world and Africa is badly affected by grain shortages caused by Russia's war in Ukraine. A landmark deal signed on Friday to resume Ukraine's grain exports hangs in the balance after Russia attacked targets in the port of Odesa on Saturday. Mr Lavrov will go on to visit three African nations to [...]
Social media companies promise to reduce harmful content in New Zealand
Meta, TikTok, Google, Amazon and Twitter sign ‘world first’ voluntary code, which critics say is a move designed to fend off regulation Facebook operator Meta, TikTok and Twitter have joined Amazon and Google signing a New Zealand code of practice for online safety. Photograph: Dado Ruvić/Reuters Global social media companies including TikTok, Twitter and Meta have signed a “world first” code of conduct that commits them to reducing the spread of harmful content in New Zealand, but some user-advocacy groups fear the code lacks any real bite. Facebook and Instagram operator Meta, Google, TikTok, Amazon and Twitter have voluntarily signed the code of practice for online safety and harms, requiring them to reduce harmful content on their platforms, introduce a robust public complaints system and provide yearly reports on [...]
Company to become first Australians to deploy technology to the moon
Advanced Navigation will become the first Australian company to deploy technology to the moon, in a new bid set to "take all the risk out" of future landings. Xavier Orr from Advanced Navigation said the company had miniaturised new technologies, which have the capacity to improve moon landing capabilities and better manage the risks involved. Advanced Navigation will become the first Australian company to deploy technology to to the moon, in a new bid set to "take all the risk out" of future landings. (Supplied) The technology uses low-powered laser sensors to determine objects relative to spacecraft—like the moon— and will be integrated in future rocket launches. "We're really fortunate to be the first Australian company landing on the moon," Orr said. "Typically in the movies when you you [...]
New Zealanders should be concerned about Monkeypox – epidemiologist
New Zealanders should be worried about the global spread of Monkeypox, an epidemiologist says. Photo: NOBEASTSOFIERCE/SCIENCE PHOTO LI The head of the World Health Organisation has declared the outbreak an international public health emergency. University of Canterbury epidemiologist Arindam Basu said cases could emerge after New Zealand's border reopens next month. "This is not just a disease of homosexuals or men having sex with men, it used to be, but it is not anymore. Children as young as 7 months are being infected, and women definitely, it's spreading." Genomic surveillance of Monkeypox is going to be more complex than Covid-19 because of the nature of the virus, he said. New Zealand has confirmed two cases.
3 killed, 2 wounded in Philippine university shooting
Police secure the Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon city, Philippines after three people were killed in a shooting on Jul 24, 2022. (Photo: AP/Aaron Favila) MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Three people died in a shooting at a university graduation ceremony in the Philippines' capital region on Sunday (Jul 24), including a former mayor from the volatile south of the country, the police said. Local Quezon City police chief Remus Medina said the shooting appeared to have been a targeted assassination of the former mayor of the southern Lamitan city, Rose Furigay. The suspect, wounded in a shootout with a campus security officer and arrested after a car chase, is now in custody and being interrogated, Medina told reporters. "He looks like he was a determined assassin," Medina said, adding he [...]
Monkeypox: WHO declares highest alert over outbreak
GETTY IMAGES The monkeypox outbreak has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization. The classification is the highest alert that the WHO can issue and follows a worldwide upsurge in cases. It came at the end of the second meeting of the WHO's emergency committee on the virus. More than 16,000 cases have now been reported from 75 countries, said WHO director general Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. There had been five deaths so far as a result of the outbreak, he added. There are only two other such health emergencies at present - the coronavirus pandemic and the continuing effort to eradicate polio. Dr Tedros said the emergency committee had been unable to reach a consensus on whether the monkeypox outbreak should be classified as [...]
PBBM vision: A digital Philippines
#PBBMSONA2022 MANILA, PH – The pandemic has highlighted the vital role of digital ecosystems in the efficient delivery of services as demand for connectivity rises. Many brick-and-mortar stores and offices that failed to adapt to the digital world struggled, or even shuttered during the pandemic, while those that turned online found themselves viable, and others, thrived. Under the leadership of Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Ivan John Uy, the DICT has promised to provide Filipinos with the digital tools to help the economy recover and make the Philippines “more competitive”. “We see that there are so many things that are in store for us in this current administration. Our digitalization efforts will be pushing through with more vitality, with more energy, and we have a president [...]
Departing Bloomfield reveals biggest pandemic regret
New Zealand— Departing Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield has revealed what he would have done differently in handling outbreaks of Covid-19. Dr Bloomfield told Q + A with Jack Tame that the communication and engagement with more vulnerable communities could have been improved, particularly those in South Auckland, where many outbreaks were centred. “Particularly our Māori, our Pacific, our disabled communities, to get them really involved and understand better what their needs were so that when we got those outbreaks, particularly in South Auckland, which is where they tended to focus, and when we started our vaccination campaign, we had a much better understanding of what their needs were and how to respond to those,” he said. Particularly in 2021, criticism was launched at the health ministry for [...]
Saudi crown prince and Kazakhstan president hold talks, review bilateral ties
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held talks with visiting Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at Al-Salam palace in Jeddah on Saturday. (SPA) JEDDAH— Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held talks with visiting Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Jeddah on Saturday and the two leaders reviewed the bilateral relations between their countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The crown prince and Tokayev also discussed enhancing cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Kazakhstan in various fields, and discussed a number of issues of common interest. The Kazakh leader arrived in Jeddah early Saturday night, and was received at the King Abdulaziz International Airport by Makkah Gov. Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, Environment and Water Minister Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadhli, and a number of officials. An official reception ceremony was then held for Tokarev [...]
Australian activist detained in London over alleged bomb threat email sent to Chinese embassy
An Australian activist has been arrested and detained in London just 20 minutes into a protest outside the Chinese embassy after authorities alleged he had emailed a bomb threat. File photo: Drew Pavlou in 2020. Pavlou was detained in London after allegedly sending a bomb threat email to the Chinese embassy. Photo: AFP Drew Pavlou, a 23-year-old Australian activist who has been critical of China's human rights record, held a small protest outside the embassy, displaying a number of flags. They included those of Tibet, Taiwan, and the Kökbayraq, a flag used to represent the Uyghur inhabitants of Xinjiang. He had intended to glue the flags to the gates outside of the embassy, a similar tactic that groups like Extinction Rebellion have adopted in recent years. Twenty minutes [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 5535 new community cases reported, 14 further deaths
There have been another 14 deaths of people with Covid-19 in New Zealand, as well as a further 5535 new community cases. Photo: 123rf.com The seven-day rolling average of community case numbers has continued to fall at 8563, down from 8703 yesterday and 9847 this time last week. In today's statement, the Ministry of Health said there were 720 people in hospital, down from 759 yesterday, although the number of people in ICU increased by two to 21. The average age of people in hospital was 66. All of the 14 deaths reported today occurred in the past four days and all of them were aged over 80. Eleven were women and three were men. Three were from Auckland region, three were from Waikato, four were from Hawke's [...]
PH Govt commits to streghten justice system
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Department of Justice are working on a program with the end goal of improving the country’s justice system and decongesting jail facilities. “When I was analyzing everything and I was discussing with my fellow lawyers the problem of our justice system, what became very apparent was that enforcement and persecution did not seem to work well together,” DOJ Sec. Jesus Crispin Remulla said in a joint briefing Thursday. He also noted that the country’s conviction rate is less than 25% for criminal cases filed in court, including plea bargaining, “which means we are not really getting a passing rate.” “This not a standard that we can live within the next few years. We have to change [...]
NZ Covid-19: 26 deaths reported, 8728 new cases
There are 8728 new Covid-19 community cases in New Zealand, the Ministry of Health has announced on Friday. Covid-19 vaccination centre in The Cloud, Auckland. (Source: 1News) The numbers were reported over the last 24 hours. There are 759 people in hospital with the virus, eight fewer than Thursday. Thirteen people are in an intensive care or high dependency unit, seven fewer than 24 hours ago. The average age of those in hospital with Covid-19 remains at 66. The seven-day rolling average of Covid hospitalisations is 764, up on 700 a week ago, but down slightly on 766 24 hours ago. Twenty-six more people with the virus have died. The deaths had occurred since April 26. On Thursday, 9953 community cases were announced.
US reports first polio case in nearly a decade
The person who tested positive in New York state is no longer contagious, but investigators are checking if others were exposed. The last case of polio in the US was recorded in 2013, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [Sarah Poser, Meredith Boyter Newlove/CDC via AP Photo] The United States has reported its first case of polio in nearly a decade after health officials in the state of New York said a patient had tested positive for the disease. The state’s health department said on Thursday that the case was detected in a resident of Rockland County, about 48km (30 miles) north of Manhattan. Testing suggested the case of the highly contagious virus may have originated outside of the US, the department said in a statement. [...]
Ranil Wickremesinghe sworn in as Sri Lankan president, eyes unity government
This handout photograph taken on Jul 21, 2022 and released by the Sri Lanka's Parliament shows Ranil Wickremesinghe (front right) swearing-in as Sri Lanka's president at the parliament in Colombo. (Photo: AFP/Sri Lanka's parliament) COLOMBO: Sri Lanka's six-time prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in Thursday (Jul 21) as president of the crisis-hit nation, with plans to form a unity government to manage the turmoil. The 73-year-old veteran politician, who was overwhelmingly elected as head of state in a parliamentary vote Wednesday, took his oath of office with the country's police chief and top military brass standing behind him. Official sources said the new leader was expected to shortly form a Cabinet featuring several opposition lawmakers to steer the country out of its worst economic crisis since gaining independence [...]
Eurozone raises interest rates for first time in 11 years
REUTERS/ECB president Christine Lagarde said a further rate rise was likely in September The European Central Bank (ECB) has raised interest rates for the first time in more than 11 years as it tries to control soaring eurozone inflation. The ECB increased its key interest rate by 0.5 percentage points to 0.0% and plans further hikes this year. The rate has been negative since 2014 in a bid to boost the region's economy after years of weak growth. But consumer prices rose at a record 8.6% in the 12 months to June as food, fuel and energy costs soared. That is well above the bank's 2% target. It comes after the Bank of England and the US Federal Reserve also put up their rates to try and rein in [...]
Ukraine, Russia to sign elusive grain deal in Turkey
Farmer Sergiy Lioubarsky wonders how on earth he'll manage to harvest his crops. (Photo: AFP/Genya Savilov) ANKARA: Ukraine and Russia were due on Friday (Jul 22) to sign an elusive deal designed to help relieve a global food crisis caused by blocked Black Sea grain exports. The first major agreement between the warring sides since Russia's February invasion of its neighbour comes with global food prices soaring and people in some of the world's poorest countries facing starvation. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was due to arrive in Turkey on Thursday for the signing ceremony at Istanbul's lavish Dolmabahce Palace on the Bosphorus Strait. "The grain export agreement, critically important for global food security, will be signed in Istanbul (Friday) under the auspices of President (Recep Tayyip) Erdogan [...]
US President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19, has mild symptoms
Joe Biden, the oldest person ever to serve as president of the United States, has tested positive for Covid-19, is experiencing mild symptoms and will continue working but in isolation, the White House said on Thursday. The White House said Biden had mild symptoms and was taking the antiviral treatment Paxlovid. Photo: AFP Biden, 79, has a runny nose, fatigue and an occasional dry cough, symptoms which he began to experience late on Wednesday, White House physician Kevin O'Connor said in a note released on Thursday. Biden has begun taking the antiviral treatment Paxlovid, O'Connor said. "He is fully vaccinated and twice boosted and experiencing very mild symptoms," press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement. The White House will provide a daily update on Biden's health, and [...]
NZ Covid-19 cases at border skyrocket after pre-departure testing scrapped
Covid-19 border cases have increased nearly fivefold since the government scrapped pre-departure testing for international arrivals in June. Average daily border cases have increased from 65 to 307. Photo: RNZ / Finn Blackwell The number of average daily border cases was 65 in the week before pre-departure testing was dumped; last week it increased to 307. University of Otago epidemiologist Michael Baker said it was a bad sign and meant new-variants of Covid-19 would enter the country quicker than ever before. "We've got less of a lag from when new variants emerge overseas and start to become dominant before they arrive in New Zealand," he said. "We are effectively seeding the country much more rapidly with new variants from overseas." International travellers need to complete rapid-antigen tests (RATs) [...]
248 rail passengers stranded by felled trees as wind lashes South Island
A TranzAlpine train with 248 passengers has been at a standstill for more than two hours, with felled trees reportedly blocking the South Island tracks. Photo: TranzAlpine / The Great Journeys of New Zealand One passenger on the route, which travels from Greymouth to Christchurch, told RNZ a tree had fallen between Springfield and Darfield stations. They said they'd been stranded for about two hours, when the train stopped at about 6.40pm, but people in his carriage were in good spirits. "The stationary train is being rocked by the wind," he said. The passenger said the train was originally due in Christchurch at 7pm. A KiwiRail spokesperson said crews were clearing the track and the train was expected to get back underway shortly after 9pm. Wild weather is lashing [...]
South Korea, Japan foreign ministers meet to tackle historical disputes
South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin and Japanese counterpart Yoshimasa Hayashi bump elbows before their talks, in Tokyo, Japan July 18,2022 REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon/Pool SEOUL— South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin began a meeting in Tokyo on Monday (Jul 18) with his Japanese counterpart, carrying a message of reconciliation in hopes that the neighbours can overcome historical disputes and repair strained ties. Ties have been fraught for years over the bitter legacy of Japan's occupation of Korea from 1910 to 1945. Disputes concern issues from wartime forced labour to export controls, but both nations have expressed interest in improving relations. Park smiled as he bumped elbows at the meeting with Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi on his first trip to the Japanese capital since South Korea's new President Yoon Suk-yeol [...]
PH logs over 14,000 COVID-19 cases from July 11 to 17
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Department of Health on Monday reported 14,640 new COVID-19 cases from July 11 to 17, a 44% increase from the previous week. In its latest bulletin, the DOH noted a daily average of 2,091 new infections during the period and the highest since Feb. 18. The department also verified one death that occurred in October 2021. No new deaths were recorded from July 4 to 17. Among the new infections, 35 are severe and critical cases, while 589 critical infections are currently admitted to hospitals. Latest DOH data also showed over 71.3 million Filipinos have so far completed their primary COVID-19 shots, which is 91.32% of the target population. Immunization among the elderly is at 77.81%, it added. More than 15 million individuals have [...]
Australian teenager Yusuf Zahab dies in Syrian prison
Yusuf Zahab, who was taken to Syria when he was 11, died in Kurdish-held prison months after pleading for help. Australian teenager Yusuf Zahab died from unknown causes in a northeast Syrian prison [Handout: Human Rights Watch] An Australian teenager has died in a severely overcrowded, makeshift prison run by a Kurdish-led armed group holding Syrian and foreign ISIL (ISIS) suspects, his family and a leading rights group said. Yusuf Zahab, who was born in southwest Sydney and brought to Syria by older family members when he was 11 years old, died from unknown causes after being “wrongfully detained” for years in al-Sina’a prison run by the United States-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which holds Syrian and foreign ISIL suspects and their family members in al-Hasakah city, Human Rights Watch [...]
NZ Cost of living soars: Inflation hits 7.3% – highest in 32 years
Inflation has hit a 32-year high on the back of higher housing, food and fuel costs. Stats NZ said consumer prices increased by 1.7 percent for the three months ended June, pushing the annual rate to 7.3 percent from 6.9 percent. Photo: 123RF Stats NZ said consumer prices increased by 1.7 percent for the three months ended June, pushing the annual rate to 7.3 percent from 6.9 percent. That was above expectations and the biggest annual rise since June 1990. The costs of building and running a house were the single biggest drivers for the quarterly and annual increases. "Supply-chain issues, labour costs, and higher demand have continued to push up the cost of building a new house," general manager Jason Attewell said. Food prices rose 1.3 percent in [...]
44% of Filipinos not satisfied with K-12 basic education program, survey says
File photo shows students attending a flag raising ceremony before singing the national anthem at a public school in Quezon City. (AFP) MANILA, Philippines — Forty four percent of Filipinos are dissatisfied with the K to 12 (K-12) education system in the country, a Pulse Asia survey shared Monday showed. According to the survey conducted on June 24 to 27 and commissioned by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, 25 percent of the 1,200 respondents said they are “somewhat dissatisfied” with the current education system while 19 percent said they are “truly dissatisfied.” This means a total of 44 percent are considered to be “dissatisfied” with the K-12 program, the survey showed. The 44 percent dissatisfaction figure is 16 percentage points higher compared to the results of a survey done in [...]
Renegotiate China loan deals – Marcos
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Photos from the Office of the President PHILIPPINES— PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. is looking to renegotiate the country's loan agreements with China for the three big-ticket railway projects that were initiated by the Duterte administration, Malacañang said on Saturday. Marcos issued this directive to the Department of Transportation (DoTr) amid reports that the Chinese loan applications for the Bicol, Subic-Clark and Mindanao railway projects have been withdrawn. Citing a statement from the DoTr, Press Secretary Rose Beatrix "Trixie" Cruz-Angeles said that Marcos wants more investments in the rail transport sector and directed the department to go back to the negotiating table to secure these loan agreements. "The President was referring to the Subic-Clark Railway Project; the Philippine National Railways (PNR) South Long-Haul Project [...]
Thousands evacuated as wildfires sweep across western Europe
Huge wildfires swept across western Europe on Saturday, destroying swathes of land and forcing thousands from their homes amid a record-breaking heatwave that shows no signs of easing. Firefighters were battling to bring blazes under control in parts of France, Spain and Portugal, with blistering summer temperatures that have allowed them to flourish expected to continue this week. In the region of Gironde in south-western France, more than 12,000 people were evacuated as strong winds frustrated efforts to contain a fire that raced across pine forests. That fire and another just south of Bordeaux have ravaged nearly 10,000 hectares (25,000 acres) of land, up from 7,300 on Friday. “We have a fire that will continue to spread as long as it is not stabilised,” said Vincent Ferrier, deputy prefect [...]
PH listed among 40 ‘most beautiful’ countries
MANILA – New York-based Condé Nast Traveler (CNT) has recognized the Philippines' charm once again, listing it as one of the 40 most beautiful countries in the world. The Philippines, joined by South Africa, Canada, Australia, Mexico, and the United States, was cited for the natural attractions the country has to offer. "There are more than 7,000 islands in the Philippines, and they easily number among the most beautiful in the world," CNT writer Caitlin Morton wrote in a June 2 article. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (Photo by Joyce Ann Rocamora) "The Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan encompasses mangrove forests, one of the world’s most impressive cave systems, and an underground river. The Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island consist of an estimated 1,776 grass-covered domes [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 22 more deaths reported, along with 6223 new community cases
Another 6223 new cases of Covid-19 have been reported in New Zealand today, along with 22 further deaths. Photo: 123rf.com The seven-day rolling average of new cases is 9803, up from 9000 last week. In today's statement, the Ministry of Health said there were 733 people in hospital with the coronavirus, down from 761 yesterday, including 16 in ICU. The average age of the people in hospital is 64. It said all of the 22 deaths occurred in the past four days. They included two people aged in their 40s, as well as one in their 50s, one in their 60s, five in their 70s, eight in their 80s and five aged over 90. Ten were women and 12 were men. Two were from Waikato, one was from Lakes, [...]
Chinese yuan resilient due to solid fundamentals, as major currencies plunge against US dollar
Strong fundamentals support investors' faith in China: economist Renminbi Photo: VCG As global major currencies, notably the euro, have weakened sharply against the US dollar amid worsening global financial turbulence, the Chinese yuan has remained remarkably stable and Chinese assets have become increasingly attractive to global investors, underscoring China's solid economic fundamentals, economists said on Thursday. The central parity rate of the Chinese yuan strengthened 17 basis points to 6.7265 against the US dollar on Thursday, with its fluctuation range further narrowing since mid-May, according to data from the China Foreign Exchange Trade System. The yuan's stabilizing trend comes as the US Dollar Index (DXY) keeps hitting nearly two-decade highs. As of press time on Thursday, the reading peaked at 109.29 in intraday trading, surging over 13 percent year-to-date. [...]
Italian PM Mario Draghi offers resignation after coalition falls apart
SEAN GALLUP/POOL/EPA Mario Draghi was appointed last year by President Mattarella to lead Italy's post-Covid recovery Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi has tendered his resignation after populist coalition partner Five Star withdrew its support in a confidence vote. The former head of the European Central Bank has led a unity government since February 2021. In a statement, he said the pact of trust that had sustained the unity government had gone. However, the president refused to accept his resignation. President Sergio Mattarella appointed Mr Draghi to lead Italy's post-Covid pandemic recovery, and save the country from endemic instability. He has now called on Mr Draghi to address parliament to provide a clear picture of the political situation. The effect of President Mattarella's intervention is not entirely clear. [...]
Sri Lanka’s president quits after fleeing protests in crisis-hit country
Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled country on Wednesday after protesters occupied presidential palace Protesters celebrate outside the prime minister’s office in Colombo after hearing President Gotabaya Rajapaksa had resigned. Photograph: Chamila Karunarathne/EPA Gotabaya Rajapaksa has resigned as president of Sri Lanka a day after fleeing weeks of mass protests over the country’s economic crisis. Rajapaksa’s office said his resignation letter had been received by the country’s parliamentary speaker, after it was flown from Singapore, to where the leader had fled via the Maldives. The speaker’s office said it would verify the authenticity of the letter, complete all legal processes and make an official announcement about Rajapaksa’s resignation on Friday. News of Rajapaksa’s resignation was greeted by cheers and the lighting of firecrackers in the streets of Colombo. “I can’t believe it, [...]
Inflation set to reach highest level in 30 years
Hang on to your wallet, inflation is set to nudge through 7 percent to its highest level in more than 30 years. Photo: PHOTO NZ Official numbers due on Monday are likely to show that rampant fuel prices, more expensive food, higher building and household costs, driving the consumer price index for the three months ended June up about 1.5 percent and the annual rate to at least 7.1 percent from the current 6.9 percent. "Price pressures are bubbling over in every corner of the economy, boosted by a cocktail of supply-side cost increases and strong consumer demand," Westpac senior economist Satish Ranchhod said. The breadth and strength of price rises has been unrelenting with global commodity prices driven by geopolitical developments, such as the Ukraine war. Food [...]
In China’s Wuhan, cholera-causing bacteria in turtles strikes nerve
A man wearing a facemask looks at a turtle for sale at a market in Wuhan on Jan 24, 2020. (File photo: AFP/Hector Retamal) BEIJING— Detection in the Chinese city of Wuhan of a bacteria that caused cholera in a student and was separately found in samples from softshell turtles at a food market has struck a sensitive nerve with ordinary Chinese people, with some relating it to COVID-19. The food market where samples from softshell turtles tested positive of the pathogen capable of causing cholera has been disinfected, local authorities said late on Thursday (Jul 14). While no human cholera case was found among people who came in contact with the softshell turtles, the specific store selling them was ordered to shut down for three days. Authorities [...]
Australia PM faces pressure to reinstate Covid-19 quarantine pay amid fresh wave
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called a snap meeting of federal and state leaders next week as he faces pressure to reinstate compensation pay for casual workers forced to isolate due to Covid-19 amid a fresh wave of infections. Anthony Albanese says his new government has inherited a trillion dollars of debt from the previous administration. Photo: AFP A renewed surge in cases fuelled by the BA.4/5 Omicron coronavirus variants has put Australia's health system on alert with the total number of people admitted to hospitals from Covid-19 not far away from record levels seen earlier this year. "I've said to the [state leaders] that we'll meet from time to time. And it's appropriate that we meet on Monday. We're not meeting today because I'm here," Albanese [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 10,470 new community cases, 16 more deaths
There have been 10,470 new cases of Covid-19 in the community and a further 16 deaths with the virus reported today, the Ministry of Health says. Photo: 123rf.com In today's statement, the ministry reported there were 773 people in hospital with the virus, up from 765 yesterday, with 14 people in ICU. The seven-day rolling average of weekly hospitalisations has risen from 499 last week to 700 today. The average age of people in hospital with the coronavrius is 64. All of the 16 deaths reported today happened in the past 11 days. The total number of publicly reported deaths with Covid-19 is now 1776. Today's deaths include one person in their 60s, one in their 70s, six in their 80s and eight aged over 90. Four were [...]
Nearly 90 dead in Haiti gang violence as country slides into chaos
A recent spike in gang violence has left nearly 90 people dead and dozens injured, according to human rights advocates. (Photo: AFP/Richard Pierrin) PORT-AU-PRINCE— A week of gang violence in Haiti's capital has left at least 89 people dead, a rights group said Wednesday (Jul 13), as soaring prices, fuel shortages and gang warfare accelerate a brutal downward spiral in the security situation in Port-au-Prince. The unrest erupted on Jul 7 between two rival factions in Cite Soleil, an impoverished and densely populated neighborhood of Port-au-Prince. As gunfire crackled in the slums for nearly a week, police, short-staffed and ill-equipped, did not intervene, while international humanitarian organisations struggled to deliver crucial food supplies and provide medical care to the victims. Thousands of families living in the slums that [...]
New Zealand announces free masks, tests as health system struggles with COVID-19
People wear masks as they exercise during a lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Auckland, New Zealand on Aug 26, 2021. (Photo: Reuters/Fiona Goodall) WELLINGTON— The New Zealand government on Thursday (Jul 14) announced free masks and rapid antigen tests as it tries to stem the spread of COVID-19 and relieve pressure on the country's health system which is dealing with an influx of coronavirus and influenza patients. There has been a significant jump in the number of new COVID-19 cases in New Zealand in the past couple of week and authorities are forecasting that this wave of Omicron might be worse than the first. The hospital system is already struggling with increases in wait times and surgeries having to be cancelled. "There's no question the combination [...]
PH rice imports seen topping 3M metric tons
The Philippines may purchase more rice from abroad over the next two years with the United States Department of Agriculture expecting the total import volume to breach the 3 million metric ton (MT) mark. In a report, the foreign agency said the country’s rice importation volume for 2022 and 2023 will reach 3.1 million MT from its previous projection of 3 million MT. It also said the country will receive “large monthly imports from Vietnam” this year and will see “continued strong demand for rice from Vietnam” in the next. The country’s rice imports as of July 7 touched 1.9 million MT, with Vietnam accounting for more than half or 1.5 million MT of the total volume, data from the Bureau of Plant Industry showed. The Philippines’ milled rice [...]
Global recession risk rising as economic outlook ‘darkens significantly’, IMF says
Cost-of-living crisis ‘only getting worse’ says IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva, predicting a tough 2022, and ‘even tougher 2023’ International Monetary Fund managing director Kristalina Georgieva says war in Ukraine has exacerbated cost-of-living crisis and increased risk of global recession. Photograph: Fabrice Coffrini/AFP/Getty Images The outlook for the global economy has “darkened significantly” in recent months, the head of the IMF has warned, and the world faces an increasing risk of recession in the next 12 months. The commodity price shock from the war in Ukraine had exacerbated the cost-of-living crisis for hundreds of millions of people, Kristalina Georgieva said on Wednesday, and it was “only getting worse”. Inflation was also higher than expected, she said in a blogpost that came on the same day as the latest figures showed [...]
Christchurch councillors meet on stadium decision
Christchurch city councillors have met and voted to give the go-ahead to build the contentious $683m stadium. Melanie Coker, Sara Templeton and Celeste Donovan were the only councillors who voted against pressing ahead. Councillors faced three choices; build the covered stadium, hit the pause button and re-evaluate the project, or scrap it altogether. Watch the council meeting here: The project board had negotiated a fixed-price contract for the 30,000-seat multi-use arena, following a $150m budget blowout blamed on rising international construction costs. The $683.1m price tag was the the total amount to go ahead, incorporating factors such as contingency funds, as well as the building and construction costs, council's manager of citizens and community, Mary Richardson, said. The government has pledged $220 million to the multi-use arena but did [...]
NZ Covid-19 Update: 11,382 new Covid-19 cases on Thursday, 23 deaths reported
There are 11,382 new Covid-19 community cases in New Zealand, Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield has announced on Thursday. Covid-19 strains (file picture). (Source: istock.com) The numbers were reported over the last 24 hours. Bloomfield also confirmed there are 765 people in hospital with the virus, 36 more than Wednesday. He also announced another 23 deaths of people with Covid-19. They had died over the past seven days. The latest deaths take the total number of publicly reported deaths of people with Covid-19 to 1760. The seven-day rolling average of cases is 9826, up from 8013 a week ago, and up on 9710 24 hours ago. For hospitalisations it is 673 and for Covid-19 deaths it is 20. Bloomfield made the announcement in a press conference alongside [...]
Cost of living crisis widens Britain’s north-south divide by 30%
Inflation gap highlights need for Boris Johnson’s successor to stick to levelling up agenda – thinktank Differences in home insulation is a big factor intensifying Britain’s north-south divide.Photograph: Ashley Cooper/Getty Images Poor home insulation and greater car dependency means inflation is up to 30% higher in northern English cities than it is in London, according to a new report. The Centre for Cities thinktank said a study of cities in England and Wales showed the north-south cost of living divide was intensifying regional inequality. The report showed eight out of the 10 cities with the highest energy costs were in the the north, the Midlands and Wales, where workers faced being £340 a year worse off than their counterparts in the south. While the annual inflation rate for the [...]
Australian PM Albanese ‘very confident’ there will be no Chinese bases in Solomon Islands
Prime minister Anthony Albanese’s comments come after meeting with Solomons leader at Pacific Islands Forum and despite Pacific nation’s security pact with China Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese says he had a ‘very constructive meeting’ with Solomon Islands PM Manasseh Sogavare on the sidelines of the Pacific Islands Forum. Photograph: Joe Armao/AFP/Getty Images The Australian prime minister, Anthony Albanese, has said he is “very confident” there will not be Chinese bases in Solomon Islands, despite the two countries’ security pact. Albanese made the comments from Fiji, where he is attending the Pacific Islands Forum in a bid to reset relations with Pacific neighbours by outlining higher ambitions on climate change and asking for Australia to remain the region’s security partner of choice, not China. Solomon Islands’ security pact [...]
Covid-19 surge: ‘If everyone does their bit, we will get through winter’ – Bloomfield
Covid-19 Response Minster Dr Ayesha Verrall says there's no doubt this winter is one of the toughest seasons New Zealand's health sector has ever faced. Watch it here: Hospitalisations of people with Covid-19 and case numbers have been soaring, alongside seasonal illnesses and compounding stress on the health system. "Covid-19 cases have been steadily trending upwards with flu and other respiratory illnesses also placing significant pressure on the health system," Dr Verrall says. Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield says the number of new weekly cases has increased week on week over the last month after previously declining since March, and the number of cases detected at the border has been steadily increasing too. "It's quite clear this has been driven by these new BA.4 and particularly BA.5 subvariants [...]
US, Australia launch major Pacific counter-bid to China’s rising influence
Suva/Washington: The United States will launch its biggest Pacific push since World War II by returning the Peace Corps to the region, releasing a Pacific-wide strategy and spending $900 million on economic development. The announcement by US Vice President Kamala Harris on Wednesday is designed to head off Beijing’s increasingly assertive Pacific agenda, after the Chinese government signed a security deal with Solomon Islands in April and pushed for a regional economic bloc in May, splitting the Pacific Islands Forum as its leaders met for the first time in three years. US Vice President Kamala Harris speaks alongside President Joe Biden in March. CREDIT:AP Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will fly into the divided leaders’ meeting in Suva on Wednesday as the forum reels from the withdrawal of Kiribati [...]
NZ Covid-19 Update: 11,464 new community cases, 29 deaths
Another 29 people have died with Covid-19 and there are 11,464 new community cases in the country today, the Ministry of Health says. Photo: AFP / Science Photo Library There are 729 people in hospital, including 18 in intensive care or a high dependency unit. In the last few days the number of people with Covid-19 needing hospital care has climbed sharply. The seven-day rolling average of community case numbers today is 9710. "Today's reported deaths take the total number of publicly reported deaths with Covid-19 to 1737 and the seven-day rolling average of reported deaths is 19," the ministry said. "Of the people whose deaths we are reporting today: Seven were from the Auckland region, one was from Waikato, two were from Bay of Plenty, one was [...]
‘Thank you for your work!’: Japan bows in sombre farewell to slain Shinzo Abe
The vehicle carrying the body of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe leaves Zojoji temple after his funeral in Tokyo on Jul 12, 2022. (Photo: AP/Hiro Komae) TOKYO— With prayers, flowers and flags draped in black ribbons, Japan on Tuesday (Jul 12) said farewell to Shinzo Abe, a polarising figure who dominated politics as the country's longest-serving premier, before being gunned down at a campaign rally last week. Crowds packed pavements lined with a heavy police presence as the hearse carrying Abe, who died at age 67, departed from a central Tokyo temple on a procession through the city. With nearly a dozen helicopters circling overhead, people bowed deeply, their hands clasped in prayer, as the hearse passed in a procession carried live on broadcaster NHK. Others clapped, cheered [...]
US warns it will defend ally if China breaks sea ruling
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called on China to comply with a 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated its vast territorial claims in the South China Sea Protesters hold slogans to mark the 6th anniversary of the issuance of the 2016 decision by an arbitration tribunal set up under the U.N. Convention of the Law of the Sea after the Philippines complained against China's increasingly aggressive actions in the disputed sea during a rally outside the Chinese consulate in Makati, Philippines, Tuesday, July 12, 2022. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken renewed a call to China to comply with a 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated Beijing's vast claims in the South China Sea and warned that Washington is obligated to defend treaty ally Philippines if its armed forces, [...]
One dead in west Auckland firearms incident
A woman has died, and police have arrested one person following a shooting in Henderson, west Auckland. Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller Police were notified of a firearm being discharged at a property in Newington Rd shortly before 9pm. "On arrival, a woman was located with critical injuries," a police spokesperson said. "Immediate first aid was provided however she sadly died at the scene." A police presence will continue in the area overnight. "While we are in the early stages of our enquiries we want to reassure the community we do not believe there to be an ongoing risk to the public."
China sees ‘new golden era’ with PH under Bongbong Marcos
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (REUTERS) MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. held wide-ranging talks on Wednesday with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, but there was no word from Malacañang on whether they discussed the simmering maritime dispute between their two countries in the South China Sea. Wang was the second highest Chinese official Marcos has met in less than a week since taking office. He earlier held a meeting with China’s Vice President Wang Qishan who was his guest at his inauguration on June 30, but officials still have not provided details about their discussions. On his Twitter account, the president said China’s top diplomat extended Chinese President Xi Jinping’s congratulations and support. “We also discussed agriculture, infrastructure, energy, and our commitment to maintaining the strong [...]
Air Pollution: Deadliest NZ centre revealed in study
New statistics show Invercargill is the deadliest place in New Zealand when it comes to air pollution - more dangerous than larger cities. Invercargill (file photo). (Source: Google Maps It shows air pollution kills about 3300 people each year - with vehicle emissions responsible for two-thirds of those, nearly 10 times the road death toll. Check out this map to see which areas have the highest air pollution. The study shows air pollution is sending more than 13,000 people to hospital each year - and costing the country more than $15 billion. Shock in Southland Invercargill topped the death-rate rankings for air pollution from vehicle exhaust and domestic fires and industry combined. It was followed by Christchurch city, then Waitaki, Timaru and Masterton districts. Invercargill's position shocked Environment [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 10,710 new community cases, 15 further deaths
There are 10,710 new cases of Covid-19 in the community today and 15 further deaths. Photo: 123RF In a statement, the Ministry of Health said there were 554 people in hospital, with 12 in intensive care or a high dependency unit. The seven-day rolling average of community cases is now 8013, compared with 6114 last Thursday. "Today's new cases of Covid-19 show the recent rise in case numbers remains steady. We are continuing to keep our response to the current community outbreak of Covid-19 under review and will adapt it as the outbreak and pandemic evolve, and as part of our resurgence planning," the ministry said. A Flourish data visualization Yesterday saw case numbers from a single day exceed 10,000 for the first time since 21 April. Experts have [...]
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson battles to stay in job after top ministers quit
A defiant British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is battling to remain in office, shrugging off calls for his resignation after two top ministers and a slew of junior officials said they could no longer serve under his scandal-tarred leadership. A delegation of Cabinet ministers planned to meet with him at his Downing Street office to press him to resign, Britain's Press Agency reported. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps and longtime loyalist Brandon Lewis were among those expected to demand that he quit. Members of the opposition Labour Party showered Johnson with shouts of "Go! Go!'' during the weekly ritual of Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons on Wednesday as critics argued the leader's days were numbered following his poor handling of sexual misconduct allegations against a senior official. [...]
Singapore confirms first local case of monkeypox infection
File photo of monkeypox vesicles on a hand. (Photo: iStock) SINGAPORE— The Ministry of Health (MOH) has confirmed the first local case of monkeypox infection in Singapore. The patient is a 45-year-old male Malaysian national who resides in Singapore. MOH said the man tested positive for monkeypox on Wednesday (Jul 6). "He is currently warded at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID) and his condition is stable," MOH said in a media statement on Wednesday. The man is not linked to the imported case announced by MOH on Jun 21, it added. The man first developed lower abdomen skin lesions on Jun 30 and subsequently experienced fatigue and swollen lymph nodes on Jul 2. He developed fever and a sore throat on Jul 4 and sought medical attention where initial [...]
50 Chinese students leave UK in three years after spy chiefs’ warning
MI5 chief says Chinese communist party targeting intellectual property across west MI5 director general Ken McCallum said the students left following a reform of the Academic Technology Approval Scheme. Photograph: Yui Mok/PA Fifty Chinese students have left the UK in the past three years after Britain tightened its procedures to prevent the theft of sensitive academic research, the head of MI5 said in a speech about the espionage threat posed by Beijing. Ken McCallum, the director general of the spy agency, also said that MI5 had “more than doubled” its effort against Chinese activity over the same timeframe, as part of an unprecedented joint warning with his counterpart at the FBI. The British spy chief said the “most gamechanging challenge” MI5 faced came from an “increasingly authoritarian Chinese Communist [...]
UK trade envoy to NZ quits over Boris Johnson
Conservative MP David Mundell has quit as UK Trade Envoy to New Zealand after he said he was "disappointed" Prime Minister Boris Johnson had not already stood down. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and David Mundell during Ardern's recent trip to Europe. (Source: Supplied) "I am very disappointed that the Prime Minister has not listened to the counsel of colleagues and stood down voluntarily in the interests of the country," the MP for Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale said in a tweet. "Earlier this week I wrote to the Chairman of the 1922 Committee confirming I had no confidence in the Prime Minister and asking that a further vote of confidence be held. I hope this can now take place as a matter of urgency," Mundell said. "Clearly such views [...]
Denmark: Gunman kills three, wounds several at Copenhagen mall
Police arrest a 22-year-old ‘ethnic Dane’ over the killing of three people in a gun attack in the Danish capital. People embrace outside Fields shopping centre, after Danish police said they received reports of a shooting at the site, in Copenhagen, Denmark [Reuters] At least three people have been killed and several more have been wounded in a shooting at a shopping mall in the Danish capital, Copenhagen. Police Inspector Soren Thomassen told reporters that a 22-year-old Danish man was arrested over Sunday’s shooting and charged with manslaughter. He said there was no indication that anyone else was involved in the attack, and said that it was too early to speculate on a motive for the shooting. The attack rocked Denmark at the end of an otherwise joyful [...]
Developers let Chinese farmers pay for homes with watermelons
Crates of watermelon are seen in this file photo. (Photo: iStock) BEIJING— Struggling developers in China have started taking payment for homes in watermelons, peaches and other agricultural produce, state media reported Sunday (Jul 3), as they attempt to lure buyers deterred by a property market slump. China's housing market has been hit by a slowing economy and debt crisis precipitated by a government ban on builders taking deposits before construction begins on a project. One developer in the eastern city of Nanjing said it would accept truckloads of watermelons worth up to 100,000 yuan as downpayment from local farmers, state-run China News Weekly reported. In the nearby small town of Wuxi, another developer was taking peaches as payment, the magazine said. Homebuyers in Qi county, a major [...]
COVID-19 vaccination requirements to be scrapped for international arrivals into Australia
Unvaccinated foreign travellers currently need to seek an exemption to enter.(ABC News: Danielle Bonica) Foreign travellers arriving in Australia will no longer need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 from Wednesday morning. Key points: Health Minister Mark Butler says the decision is being made on medical advice In May, just over 1,000 applications from unvaccinated travellers were received, with 158 approved Incoming arrivals will still need to comply with other restrictions, including wearing masks on flights It marks the end of significant COVID-based restrictions on travel into Australia, more than two years after the pandemic began. Currently, anyone arriving in Australia needs to declare their vaccination status before arriving. While Australian citizens can arrive unvaccinated, most foreign travellers need to seek an exemption on limited grounds. From 12:01am on Wednesday morning, those [...]
Australian PM visits sites of Russian atrocities in Ukraine
Anthony Albanese pledges more military aid on visit to Bucha, Hostomel and Irpin Australia’s prime minister, Anthony Albanese, has pledged more than A$100m in fresh military aid for Ukraine, after visiting the sites of some of the most infamous atrocities of Russia’s war during the final leg of a European tour. Albanese visited Bucha, Hostomel and Irpin, three towns in the Kyiv region that became synonymous with the brutality of Vladimir Putin’s invasion when evidence of mass killings and torture was uncovered after the withdrawal of Russian forces. The governor of the Kyiv region, Oleksii Kuleba, announced the visit on Facebook, saying Albanese had been shocked at what he saw, including bombed-out homes, traces of mines and a destroyed airport. Photos posted on Kuleba’s Facebook page showed Albanese and [...]
Sara Duterte opens six OVP satellite offices
Metro Manila, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte on Saturday announced that six regional offices of the Office of the Vice President were opened to expand her reach nationwide. “Sa aking unang buong araw bilang bise presidente, nagbukas po tayo ng mga satellite office sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng bansa upang matulungan ang ating mga kababayan na magkaroon ng madali at agarang access sa mga serbisyong mula sa Office of the Vice President,” Duterte said in a Facebook post. [Translation: In my first whole day as vice president, we opened satellite offices in different parts of the country to provide the people easy and immediate access to the services of the Office of the Vice President.] The OVP satellite offices are in Dagupan in Ilocos Region, Cebu in Central [...]
Clean car rebate: Dealers say some buyers hit with fee instead
Used car dealers say some customers expecting a clean car rebate are getting hit with a fee instead, because official data is changing even as the vehicle is being sold. A clogged Auckland motorway (file picture). (Source: istock.com) The Clean Car Discount scheme is having to alter wrong or missing emissions or safety-rating data as it goes along. Christchurch car dealer Peter Cullen has a dozen virtually identical Mazdas Azelas on his lot at Value Cars Warehouse, which he had marked up as having rebates. But last week, when he went to print out a window sticker for the latest Azela, the official Rightcar site produced something else. "It's actually a fee now, it's changed midstream. "Then I've subsequently gone and checked all the previous models. We've [...]
NZ-EU trade deal has painful compromises for Europe’s producers, farming group says
EU's main farming association Copa-Cogeca is unhappy about the free trade deal signed with New Zealand last week. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at EU headquarters in Brussels on 30 June 2022. Photo: AFP The deal means New Zealand can send a further 38,000 tonnes of sheep meat, 10,000 tonnes of beef, 15,000 tonnes more of butter and extra 25,000 tonnes of cheese to the EU. In a statement, Copa-Cogeca said its dairy, sheep and beef sectors were the "sacrificed lambs" of the deal. The farmers' group said it recognised the high consumer protection standards in New Zealand, and the effort made by the European Commission to protect geographical indicators and EU production standards in the deal, but painful compromises [...]
PM’s Australian trade mission to focus on business reconnection, climate change progress
Labour shortages, supply chain disruption and climate change are expected to be among the topics of discussion on the Prime Minister's Australian trade mission. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern meets with Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese. File photo. Photo: RNZ/Katie Scotcher Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern starts a trade mission in Melbourne today before talks with her Australian counterpart. Ardern was in Sydney just a few weeks ago to meet the newly elected Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. She returns today for a series of trade, tourism and business events in Melbourne and Sydney. She will speak at the Australia New Zealand Leadership Forum and deliver what's described as a 'major foreign policy speech' at the Lowy Institute, before meeting Albanese for their annual bilateral talks on Friday. Albanese has been in [...]
Marcos vows stronger Air Force, cites disputes
MODERNIZATION ON THEIR MINDS In one of his first events as Commander in Chief, President Marcos on Friday speaks at the 75th founding anniversary program of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) in Clark City, Pampanga, where he is also presented two documents—the PAF Flight Plan 2040 and the PAF Handbook—unveiled here with the Air Force chief, Lt. Gen. Connor Anthony Canlas. —MARIANNE BERMUDEZ CLARK FREEPORT, PH—On his first full day on the job, President Marcos on Friday promised a robust and capable Air Force to defend the country’s sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea. Speaking at the late afternoon rites to mark the 75th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) inside the Haribon Hangar in this former US air base, Mr. Marcos said the ongoing [...]
PH manufacturing conditions improve for 5 straight months
MANILA – The performance of the domestic manufacturing sector has improved for five consecutive months in June this year, according to S&P Global Philippines Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI). (File photo) Philippine manufacturing PMI in June recorded a score of 53.8 amid a solid rise in output due to strong demands. Indices above 50 reflect improvement in manufacturing conditions, while below the neutral mark mean deterioration of manufacturing activities. Although the production index was slightly lower in June compared to the score of 54.1 in May, S&P Global said manufacturing performance last month reflected solid growth of the sector as the country continues to recover from the coronavirus pandemic. “Domestic demand remained strong as the lifting of pandemic restrictions allowed customer [...]
Armenia, Turkey agree to open borders for third-country nationals
The two countries have also agreed to begin direct cargo flights in both directions, despite their strained relations. Armenia and Turkey have agreed in normalisation talks to open their common border for third-country nationals [Murad Sezer/Reuters] Armenia and Turkey have agreed in normalisation talks to open their common border for third-country nationals and to begin direct cargo flights, according to the Turkish foreign ministry and Interfax news agency citing the Armenian foreign ministry. Relations between the two countries have been strained for decades and the land border between the two neighbours has been closed since 1993, in the wake of clashes between Armenia and ethnically Turkic Azerbaijan. Envoys for Ankara and Yerevan “agreed to enable the crossing of the land border between Türkiye and Armenia by third country citizens [...]
NSW residents prepare for flash flooding as rain event lashes coast
Most of the New South Wales coast will be battered by heavy rain over the coming week however Sydney is in the firing line today. More than a month's worth of rain is set to lash Sydney and the Illawarra today with multiple flood warnings in place across the city. Up to 150 millimetres of rain is predicted today. Residents have been warned to avoid unneccessary travel amid flash flooding concerns. (Louise Kennerley) The Bureau of Meteorology has warned this could cause flash flooding across Sydney and has warned motorists to avoid unnecessary travel. The timing could also not be worse for NSW residents as school holidays begin today and many families would be planning to head away. "A surface trough is expected to deepen offshore from the Sydney [...]
India bans 19 single-use plastic items to combat pollution
Ban includes plastic straws, disposable cutlery, earbuds, candy and ice cream packaging, and cigarette packets. An Indian worker sorts used plastic bottles before sending them to be recycled in Ahmadabad, India in 2018 [File: Ajit Solanki/AP] India has imposed a ban on single-use plastics on items ranging from straws to cigarette packets to combat worsening pollution in the nation of nearly 1.4 billion people. The ban on single-use plastic items includes straws, cutlery, earbuds, packaging films, plastic sticks for balloons, candy and ice cream, and cigarette packets, among other products, the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a statement on Friday. For the first stage, the government has identified 19 plastic items that it said are not very useful but have a high potential to become [...]
Angry outpour at Roe v Wade Solidarity Protest in Wellington
Hundreds of pro-choice activists rallied in Wellington on Friday afternoon protesting the US Supreme Court's ruling to overturn Roe v. Wade. “I think people have shown up for basic human rights,” said organiser Madeleine Petersen-Gould. Cries of “my body, my choice” could be from the crowd as the group marched towards the US embassy. It’s been a week since the controversial decision by the US Supreme Court, which overturns the federal law allowing blanket access to the medical procedure across the US. The right to abortion will now be decided at the state level, with some conservative states already enacting trigger laws that effectively deny access to millions. “I’ve got grey hair now! It’s taken a long time for women to have the right to make a choice about [...]
Ardern and Johnson agree to visa changes to benefit New Zealanders under 35
Young New Zealanders will be able to spend more time living and working in the United Kingdom under changes to a popular visa. Jacinda Ardern met with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at 10 Downing Street overnight. Photo: RNZ / Katie Scotcher Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern met with her British counterpart Boris Johnson at 10 Downing Street, overnight New Zealand time. During the meeting, they agreed to changes to the Youth Mobility Scheme, which currently allows people aged between 18 and 30 to live and work in the UK for up to two years. The two countries had agreed in October last year to improve the scheme. The changes will mean young New Zealanders will now be able to spend three years in the UK. The age limit [...]
Covid-19 update: 20 more deaths reported, 6460 new community cases in NZ
The seven-day rolling average of new case numbers continue to rise, with 6460 new community cases reported today, as well as 20 further deaths. Photo: 123rf.com In today's statement, the Ministry of Health said the seven-day rolling average of new community cases was now 6825, sharply up from 4737 last Saturday. It said there were now 423 people in hospital with the coronavirus, up from 417 yesterday and from 316 this time last week, with seven people in intensive care. The average age of people in hospital with Covid-19 is 63. All but one of today's 20 new deaths occurred in the past three days. Five were in their 70s, six in their 80s and nine were aged over 90. Nine were women and 11 were men. Five [...]
New Zealand to back Ukraine at International Court of Justice
New Zealand will present its legal view on Russia's invasion of Ukraine at the United Nations' international court, contesting the Kremlin's claim of genocide. Peace Palace on the Carnegieplein in The Hague is the seat of the UN International Court of Justice. Photo: Sandra Uittenbogaart / ANP MAG / ANP via AFP It marks New Zealand's second legal intervention - where a country not party to a case presents its views - at the International Court of Justice, having previously backed Australia's case against Japanese whaling in 2012. In a statement, Minister of Foreign Affairs Nanaia Mahuta and Attorney-General David Parker said New Zealand would challenge Russia's "spurious attempt to justify its invasion under international law". Ukraine's case, filed in February, argues Russia falsely claimed genocide had occurred [...]
Shortage of eggs confirmed in Australian supermarkets
A shortage of eggs on shelves has been confirmed, the latest in the deluge of supply issues in Australian supermarkets. A Woolworths spokesperson said the marketwide supply of locally produced eggs in some regions has been impacted by reduced production on a number of farms. "While we continue to deliver eggs to our stores regularly, customers may notice reduced availability at the moment and we thank them for their patience and understanding," the spokesperson said. There's an egg shortage in Australian supermarkets. (9News) "We're in close contact with our suppliers and are working to increase the availability of eggs in stores as soon as possible." While supply is constrained, eggs continue to be delivered regularly, the supermarket said. Woolworths notes fresh eggs at their supermarkets is 100 per cent [...]
Leaders of US, South Korea and Japan agree closer cooperation over North Korea threat
US President Joe Biden waits for the start of a round table meeting at the NATO summit in Madrid, Spain, on Jun 29, 2022. (Photo: Susan Walsh/Pool via REUTERS) MADRID: The leaders of the United States, South Korea and Japan on Wednesday (Jun 29) expressed deep concern over North Korea's missile tests and said they would cooperate more closely to address the threat posed by Pyongyang. US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol met on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Madrid and agreed that the progress of North Korea's nuclear and missile programmes posed serious threats to not only the Korean peninsula but also East Asia and the world. North Korea has this year been conducting missile tests [...]
US to increase military forces across Europe, Joe Biden announces
President says ‘US and its allies are going to step up’ as he arrives for summit of Nato leaders in Madrid Joe Biden at the Nato summit in Madrid. Photograph: Denis Doyle/Getty Images Joe Biden has announced that the US will increase its military forces across Europe with more land, sea and air deployments, as he gathered with Nato leaders for a two-day summit in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Arriving at the meeting in Madrid, the US president announced the stationing of a brigade of 3,000 combat troops in Romania, two squadrons of F-35 fighters in the UK and two navy destroyers in Spain. “The US and its allies are going to step up. We’re stepping up. We’re proving that Nato is more needed now than [...]
All roads lead to National Museum for BBM inauguration
(Photo courtesy of Bongbong Marcos official Facebook page) Everything is set for the historic inauguration on Thursday (June 30) of incoming President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. at the National Museum in Manila. Franz Imperial, one of the preparations committee heads, said they are hoping that all the activities will go smoothly and according to plans. The events of the day will start with the traditional meeting of the outgoing president and his successor in Malacanang Palace before they proceed, in separate vehicles, to the inaugural venue. Before leaving the palace, outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte will be given departure honors. The inauguration ceremony will start with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, followed by an Ecumenical/ Interfaith prayer. As previously reported, a military-civic parade will follow, which will [...]
Woman who murdered 5-year-old boy jailed for at least 17 years
A woman responsible for murdering five-year-old Tauranga boy Malachi Subecz will spend at least 17 years behind bars. Malachi Subecz. (Source: NZ Police.) Michaela Barriball, 27, was also charged with wilfully ill-treating a child and grievous bodily harm in the High Court at Rotorua. Malachi was found with injuries at a Te Puna property on November 1, 2021 and treated in Tauranga Hospital. He was subsequently airlifted to Starship hospital in Auckland, where he died on November 12. It subsequently emerged Malachi had been starved, beaten and burnt in the months before he died. Justice Paul Davison remarked that the offending "clearly sits at the highest end of any scale". "You held all the power, and you abused that power in the most callous and inhumane way imaginable." [...]
NZ Govt to provide masks for students, funding for ventilation
There are 50 child-sized masks available to every Year 4 to 7 student in the country from now until the end of the year, the Government has announced. Children in classroom - stock image. (Source: istock.com) Associate Education Minister Jan Tinetti said it was part of a range of strategies being put in place that could help schools reduce the risk of winter illnesses spreading. She said the Ministry of Education could supply 10 million special child-sized masks and planned to have them ready to send to schools and kura at the start of Term 3. That's in addition to adult-sized masks that were offered to all students from Year 8 and up, she said. "Around 20,000-30,000 masks are already being distributed to students and staff every week [...]
Covid-19: NZ to stay in orange traffic light setting
New Zealand will stay at the orange traffic light setting. File photo. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone Covid-19 Respone Minister Ayesha Verrall said the country needed to remain at this setting as Covid-19 case numbers were starting to "creep up". "Moving back to Red is unnecessary at the moment. We can continue to manage the virus at Orange, but are putting in place a range of additional measures to help manage a recent rise in cases," Dr Verrall said. "Yesterday the seven-day rolling average of Covid-19 cases was 5808 and there were 395 people in hospital and 8 in ICU. For comparison when we moved out of red in April the rolling average of cases was nearly 10,000 a day and there were over 500 people in hospital [...]
Nurses at Wellington Hospital ‘burnt out’ as patient numbers climb
A nurse at Wellington Hospital is revealing what life is like on the ward, amid pressure from the growing number of sick people needing treatment. Photo: RNZ / Dom Thomas Ruth, whose last name RNZ has agreed not to use, knows nurses who have already left this year - and she is thinking of joining them. This comes as the hospital defers most non-urgent care and planned surgeries and the DHB pays for GP appointments to divert people from its busy emergency department. Winter illness has meant an influx of patients, there has been an increase in people arriving at the ED and nurses are getting sick too. "We're working very long hours just to keep the place running. We're working over and above our normal FTE [fulltime equivalent] [...]
Niue reopens its borders to New Zealand tourists
Niue is the latest Pacific Island to open to New Zealand tourists after more than two years of being shut due to the pandemic. The first flight departed at 9.10am this morning. Niue Tourism Destination manager Gaye Wood said, as far as the Niue operators go, it was a matter of them being excited, but also a little bit anxious because it was a big step for any destination to be opening up and Niue was no different than that She said a new commitment to a Multiple-Use Marine Park, known as Niue Nukutuluea, which larger than the landmass of New Zealand, is expected to be a real highlight for tourists. Passengers pose at the airport after Niue reopens its border. Photo: RNZ Pacific/Lydia Lewis "The whales, the [...]
Toxic gas leak at Jordan’s Aqaba port kills 11, injures hundreds
ALMAMLAKA TV Video broadcast by state-owned AlMamlaka TV showed the dock engulfed in a cloud of yellow gas A leak of toxic chlorine gas at Jordan's Red Sea port of Aqaba has killed 11 people and injured more than 250 others, state media report. Authorities said a chemical storage container fell while being transported as a result of a crane malfunction. CCTV footage showed the container being hoisted into the air and then suddenly dropping on to a ship and exploding. A large cloud of bright yellow gas is seen spreading across the ground, sending people running for safety. State media said 199 of the injured were being treated at local hospitals for chemical exposure. Some were reportedly in a critical condition. Chlorine is a chemical used in [...]
Ardern touches down in Madrid ahead of NATO leaders’ summit
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has arrived in Spain's capital, Madrid, ahead of the NATO leaders' summit. Jacinda Ardern. (Source: 1News) Later on Tuesday evening Ardern and Spain's president Pedro Sánchez will hold bilateral talks, a chance for her to thank him in person for his support for Covid-19 vaccines for New Zealand and also discuss how the two countries can strengthen their ties. Last September, the Government purchased around a quarter of million doses of the Pfizer vaccine from Spain. Then overnight Ardern will hold bilateral talks with French president Emmanuel Macron to discuss the latest on Russia's invasion of Ukraine following Macron's recent visit there. Trying to finalise a free trade agreement between New Zealand and the European Union and the Christchurch Call will also on the [...]
Japanese told to turn off lights to save energy amid Tokyo heatwave
Extreme temperatures forecast for capital this week after premature end to rainy season Temperatures of 35C were forecast in Tokyo for Monday as the capital battles record June temperatures. Photograph: Xinhua/REX/Shutterstock Japan’s government has warned millions of people in the Tokyo region to save energy or face power cuts, as the capital battles record June temperatures after a premature end to the rainy season. Temperatures of 35C (95F) were forecast in the city throughout the day, with similarly extreme weather expected for the rest of the week, according to the Japanese meteorological agency. “We ask the public to reduce energy consumption during the early evening hours when the reserve ratio falls,” Yoshihiko Isozaki, the deputy chief cabinet secretary, told reporters. Isozaki advised households and businesses to turn off lights [...]
PNP: All systems go for Bongbong Marcos inauguration
Metro Manila, Philippines — Authorities are ramping up security for the June 30 oath-taking of President-elect Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. to be held at the National Museum grounds. Speaking to CNN Philippines' The Source on Monday, PNP Director for Operations Major General Val de Leon said more than 6,000 of their personnel were initially set to be deployed, but they intend to increase the number on Thursday. "Initially, we have accounted 6,768 personnel but we intend to increase this based on information that we received," he said. "There is a civil disturbance management that will be positioned in areas where militant groups might want to stage a rally. We do not allow this especially if there are no opermits." The National Capital Region Police Office previously said over 15,000 personnel [...]
Nato to put 300,000 troops on high alert in response to Russia threat
Alliance’s leader says this week’s summit will agree its most significant transformation in a generation Jens Stoltenberg speaks during the press conference to preview the Nato summit in Madrid on Monday. Photograph: Kenzo Tribouillard/AFP/Getty Images Nato’s secretary general has said this week’s Madrid summit will agree the alliance’s most significant transformation for a generation, putting 300,000 troops at high readiness in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Jens Stoltenberg said the military alliance’s forces in the Baltic states and five other frontline countries would be increased “up to brigade levels” – doubled or trebled to between 3,000 and 5,000 troops. That would amount to “the biggest overhaul of our collective defence and deterrence since the cold war,” Stoltenberg said before the meeting of the 30-country alliance, which runs [...]
New Zealand behind world on gender pay gap reporting – survey
Gender pay gaps have flourished in a culture of continued secrecy around salaries, and a global survey shows more work is needed to shine a light on discrimination in the workplace. Photo: 123RF The Equileap survey ranked New Zealand's best performing company, Xero, in 83rd place in the Asia Pacific region for gender equality. Australia, UK, France, Spain, Sweden and South Africa have all introduced compulsory reporting, but New Zealand has not. The report analysing gender pay gap reporting in these six countries was prepared for the United Nations by the Global Institute for Women's Leadership at Kings College London. The average gender pay gap in New Zealand is 9 percent, but the difference in pay for a Pasifika woman and a Pākehā man is 25 percent. Report [...]
Covid-19 update: 11 further deaths and 5549 new community cases
There are 11 further deaths and 5549 new cases of Covid-19 in the community today. Photo: Unsplash / Mufid Manjun In a statement, the Ministry of Health said 383 people are in hospital, including six in ICU. From tomorrow a second Covid-19 booster will be available, six months after the first one, to anyone aged over 50 and health, aged-care and disability-care workers over the age of 30. Covid-19 Response Minister Ayesha Verrall has said schools did not stand out in the data as showing high transmission of Covid-19. The government is unlikely to introduce stricter Covid-19 meaures, such as compulsory face masks in schools or a change in the Covid-19 setting.
Thousands of protesters arrive as G7 convenes in Germany
The agenda of the summit in Munich includes Russia’s war on Ukraine, climate change, energy and a looming food security crisis. People prepare for arrivals of leaders at Franz-Josef-Strauss airport in Munich to attend the G7 summit [Michaela Rehle/Reuters] About 4,000 protesters gathered in Munich as the Group of Seven (G7) leading economic powers prepared to hold their annual gathering in Germany’s Bavarian Alps. Organisers said they hoped to mobilise up to 20,000 protesters in the Bavarian city and were disappointed by the initial low turnout at Munich’s Theresienwiese park, German news agency dpa reported. Uwe Hiksch, one of the protest organisers, said potential participants might consider it inappropriate to challenge the world’s wealthiest democracies during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. “We have the impression that many people are unsettled [...]
Duterte serenades supporters in #SalamatPRRD concert
MANILA – Outgoing President Rodrigo Roa Duterte did not pass up the chance to serenade his fans and supporters despite being invited as special guest at the “Salamat PRRD” thanksgiving concert at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Sunday night. FAVORITE SONG ‘IKAW’. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte serenades his fans and supporters with his favorite love song “Ikaw” with concert king Martin Nievera singing with him during the “Salamat PRRD” thanksgiving concern at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Sunday night (June 26, 2022). Duterte is set to end his six-year term on June 30. (Screengrab from RTVM) Although international singer and Concert King Martin Nievera had already sung “Ikaw” earlier in the program, Duterte was requested to sing the love song himself with Nievera singing some [...]
G7 aims to raise US$600 billion to counter China’s Belt and Road
US President Joe Biden attends a working lunch with other G7 leaders to discuss shaping the global economy at the Yoga Pavilion, Schloss Elmau in Kuren, Germany, on Jun 26, 2022. (Photo: Kenny Holston/Pool via REUTERS) SCHLOSS ELMAU, Germany: Group of Seven leaders on Sunday (Jun 26) pledged to raise US$600 billion in private and public funds over five years to finance needed infrastructure in developing countries and counter China's older, multitrillion-dollar Belt and Road project. US President Joe Biden and other G7 leaders relaunched the newly renamed "Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment" at their annual gathering being held this year at Schloss Elmau in southern Germany. Biden said the United States would mobilise US$200 billion in grants, federal funds and private investment over five years [...]
Ardern declines invitation to meet Zelensky in Ukraine
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has revealed to 1News she declined an invitation from Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky to visit his war-torn country. The PM told 1News she turned it down due to existing travel commitments. (Source: Breakfast) Ardern confirmed to 1News that like many world leaders, she received an invitation from Zelensky to visit Ukraine, but turned it down due to existing travel commitments. "Where Ukraine has expressed a need for support, New Zealand has been there," Ardern said. "That won’t change and nor would a visit on the ground change that. "I’m mindful though it’s a huge logistical and security operation to have any leader on the ground in Ukraine and while it’s in the middle of a war we will continue to send our support in a [...]
Free flu vaccine: Around 800,000 more people eligible
In an effort to ease pressure on the health system the Government has widened the criteria for free flu vaccines – making them available for approximately an extra 800,000 people. File picture. (Source: istock.com) Most of the newly eligible are children aged 3 to 12 after a high number of pre-schoolers were hospitalised with influenza. Tamariki under 9 years of age who have not previously received flu vaccine will need two doses given four weeks apart to gain full immunity for 2022. Also eligible are people with specific mental health conditions and or addiction issues. The widened access will start from 1 July. "There has been a sharp increase in the flu cases recorded this season with the impact on our communities, likened to that of Covid-19," Pharmac’s [...]
Political donations, overseas voting rules to change before election – Minister
Political party donations and overseas voting rules will change ahead of next year's general election, Justice Minister Kiri Allan has announced. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone In a statement, Allan said an Electoral Amendment Bill would soon be introduced to tighten the rules for disclosure of political donations and loans, and temporarily widen access for overseas voters. The bill would require the identity of donors of more than $5000 to be made public - down from $15,000 - along with loans to candidates from unregistered lenders. Parties would also be required to make public their financial statements, the number and total value of non-anonymous donations below $1500, and the proportion of total donations that are non-monetary. Allan, who came to the role two weeks ago, said public and [...]
Singapore begins importing renewable energy from Laos through Thailand and Malaysia
HDB flats in Singapore at night. (Photo: iStock/Taikrixel) SINGAPORE— Singapore started importing renewable energy from Laos through Thailand and Malaysia on Thursday (Jun 23), after an initial two-year power purchase agreement was signed between Keppel Electric and Laos' state-owned Electricite du Laos (EDL). The Lao PDR-Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore Power Integration Project (LTMS-PIP) will import up to 100 megawatts (MW) of renewable hydropower using existing interconnections, marking the first multilateral cross-border electricity trade involving four ASEAN countries. This is equivalent to about 1.5 per cent of Singapore's peak electricity demand in 2020, enough to power about 144,000 four-room HDB flats for a year. This is also the first renewable energy import into Singapore, said Keppel Electric, EDL, the Laotian Ministry of Energy and Mines and the Energy Market Authority (EMA) in a joint news release. The project will benefit all [...]
Locsin: Duterte has ordered to terminate PH-China joint oil and gas talks
Metro Manila, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the complete termination of the Philippines-China joint oil and gas exploration in the West Philippine Sea, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. revealed in his speech on Thursday. "The President had spoken. I carried out his instructions to the letter: oil and gas discussions are terminated completely. Nothing is pending; everything is over," Locsin said during the 124th anniversary of the Department of Foreign Affairs. Locsin added, "three years on and we had not achieved our objective of developing oil and gas resources so critical for the Philippines but not at the price of sovereignty; not even a particle of it." Despite being embroiled in an ongoing territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea, the Philippines and China signed a memorandum [...]
EU awards Ukraine and Moldova candidate status
COURTESY OF PROMOTE UKRAINE Ukrainians waited outside the EU summit building for the leaders to decide on their country's status Ukraine and Moldova have both been granted EU candidate status, President of the European Council Charles Michel has announced. "Today marks a crucial step on your path towards the EU," Mr Michel said, describing the European Council's decision as a "historic moment". Ukraine applied days after the Russian invasion in February, and the process moved at a record speed. Its president, Volodymyr Zelensky, hailed Thursday's decision. "It's a unique and historical moment in UA[Ukraine]-EU relations..." he tweeted. "Ukraine's future is within the EU." The mayor of the Ukrainian capital Kyiv, former boxer Vitali Klitschko, paid an emotional tribute to his fellow citizens resisting the invasion. "We paid a very [...]
Apple and Android phones hacked by Italian spyware, says Google
Report claims Milan-based RCS Lab developed tools to spy on private messages and contacts of targeted devices The report said that hacking tools were used to spy on both Apple and Android smartphones in Italy and Kazakhstan. Photograph: Alexander Spatari/Getty Images An Italian company’s hacking tools were used to spy on Apple and Android smartphones in Italy and Kazakhstan, Alphabet Inc’s Google said in a new report. Milan-based RCS Lab, whose website claims European law enforcement agencies as clients, developed tools to spy on private messages and contacts of the targeted devices, the report said. European and American regulators have been weighing potential new rules over the sale and import of spyware. “These vendors are enabling the proliferation of dangerous hacking tools and arming governments that would not be [...]
Matariki 2022: Hautapu ceremony marks dawning of a new day
An ancient and sacred hautapu ceremony has marked the dawning of a new day for Aotearoa, beginning the country's inaugural Matariki public holiday - the first of its kind to be broadcast live. Steam rose up to honour the stars of Matariki, with incantations from tohunga (experts), haka, and karanga reverberating out across Wellington’s Te Papa Tongarewa to mark the occasion. The pre-dawn Whāngai i te Hautapu ceremony was led by tohunga and rangatira, Sir Pou Temara and ruānuku, a group who have trained for many years with him to lead such an event. It was part of a larger broadcast - Celebrate Matariki, Mānawatia a Matariki - simulcast on 1News, 1News online, TVNZ+ and the country’s other major broadcasters. Speaking after the hautapu ceremony, Sir Pou spoke of [...]
Air NZ ramps up flights, staff as travel takes off again
As Air New Zealand ramps up, bringing on 40,000 extra seats from tomorrow and hundreds of workers, it is warning of ticket prices being affected by fuel costs. Photo: camfoto/123RF Air New Zealand chief executive Greg Foran told Checkpoint that the price of fuel "has moved pretty quickly". "Over the last few months, we've seen effectively a doubling in price and I've referred to the fact that getting to Los Angeles, it used to cost us just over US$40,000 to fill up a Dreamliner and now it's about US$96,000, so that's seen the price of tickets on average increase around 20 plus percent." "The other thing that has a bearing on it is just how many seats we have on sectors. We've been building back as quickly as [...]
Rugby league joins clampdown on transgender athletes in women’s sport
MELBOURNE/SYDNEY - Rugby league banned transgender players from women's international competition on Tuesday until further notice, following global swimming's decision to restrict trans athletes' participation at the elite level. The International Rugby League (IRL) said it needed to further consult and balance transgender participation against "perceived risk" to other players. "Until further research is completed to enable the IRL to implement a formal transgender inclusion policy, male-to-female (trans women) players are unable to play in sanctioned women's international rugby league matches," the IRL said in a statement. The ban, which comes after FINA voted on Sunday to restrict transgender athletes in elite women's swimming, was condemned by transgender advocates and sportspeople. "It's disappointing. We're human beings the same as everyone else," transgender woman Caroline Layt, who played elite women's rugby [...]
Picton crash tragedy: Relative shocked at loss of loved ones
A relative of those who died in a horror crash south of Picton yesterday says she has lost nearly everyone in her family. The death of seven people on the road near Picton has shocked the nation and left a family devastated. Photo: Supplied / Trish Rawlings The collision on State Highway One took the lives of seven peopleand has left the community reeling. Princess Clariman stayed in Auckland while her family travelled south to a funeral in Gore and was left devastated by the horror crash. Her parents, three of her brothers, an aunty, cousin and other family members - including a baby - were travelling in the van when it collided with a refrigerated goods truck, just south of Picton on Sunday morning. "It is a [...]
Philippine Peso slips past ₱54 vs. dollar after over 3.5 years
Metro Manila, Philippines— The peso slipped to its weakest level in more than three-and-a-half years on Monday, closing above the ₱54-per-dollar level amid developments abroad as cited by economists. The local currency closed at P54.065 versus the greenback, further falling from ₱53.75 on Friday. This is its worst performance since Oct. 15, 2018, where the peso ended at ₱54.08 to the dollar. Regina Capital managing director Luis Limlingan said the peso’s depreciation could be linked to overseas factors “beyond our control” — particularly the tightening of the US Federal Reserve's interest rate. The Fed recently announced a rate hike of 75 basis points for the first time since 1994, as US authorities try to rein in commodity prices. “[T]he Fed signaled determination to further bring down US inflation back [...]
Health system ‘under pressure’, not in crisis – Minister Andrew Little
The health minister is "dreaming" if he thinks the health system is not in crisis, his National Party counterpart Shane Reti says. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver The minister, Andrew Little, says the government has done everything it can to support the health system, and rejects the accusation it failed to take earlier opportunities to bolster the nursing workforce. In Auckland, emergency departments are under massive strain, with Counties-Manukau DHB putting $350 per patient towards already stressed GPs to help ease pressure on Middlemore's Emergency Department (ED). Wellington and Hutt Valley DHBs have been forced to delay planned care for another four weeks, on top of a two-week deferment, because of unprecedented staff absences, high levels of vacancies, and high demand from winter illness. Canterbury has also been [...]
Marcos to take charge of Dept. of Agriculture ‘for now’
Metro Manila, Philippines — President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he would be taking on the role for Agriculture chief "for now." Marcos made the announcement at a briefing on Monday, where incoming members of his economic team were also present. "As to agriculture, I think the problem is severe enough that I have decided to take on the portfolio of Secretary of Agriculture at least for now. At least until we can reorganize the Department of Agriculture in the way that we'll make it ready for the next years to come," said Marcos. He said taking on the role of DA chief would prove his administration was taking issues concerning the agricultural sector seriously, and also that it would help move things "quickly." "The events of the global economy are moving [...]
Largest freshwater fish ever recorded caught in Cambodia
Giant stingray snagged by local fisher in Mekong River weighs nearly 300kg World's largest freshwater fish caught in Cambodia The world’s largest recorded freshwater fish, a giant stingray, has been caught in the Mekong River in Cambodia, according to scientists. The stingray, captured on 13 June, measured almost four metres from snout to tail and weighed just under 300kg, according to a statement on Monday by Wonders of the Mekong, a joint Cambodian-US research project. The previous record for a freshwater fish was a 293kg Mekong giant catfish discovered in Thailand in 2005, the group said. The stingray was snagged by a local fisher south of Stung Treng in north-east Cambodia. The fisher alerted a team of scientists from the Wonders of the Mekong project, which has publicised its [...]
Ukrainian missiles hit Black Sea gas platforms, say Russian officials
Reports of strikes come as Russian forces said to be gathering for final assault on Sievierodonetsk and Lysychansk The three offshore platforms, the Boyko towers, had previously been seized by Moscow from Ukraine back in 2014. Photograph: Vincent Mundy/Bloomberg/Getty Images Russian officials have said Ukraine launched missile strikes against three gas rigs in the Black Sea south of Odesa, in an apparent escalation of Kyiv’s attempts to weaken Russia’s maritime dominance. Seven people were missing and three injured after the strikes, according to the head of occupied Crimea, Sergey Aksyonov, who said a “rescue operation with the participation of patrol ships and aviation” was under way. The three offshore platforms, the Boyko towers, had previously been seized by Moscow from Ukraine in 2014. Kyiv believes they are [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 5630 new community cases and 17 further deaths
Another 17 people have died with Covid-19 and there are 5630 new community cases, the Ministry of Health says. The Omicron variant of the coronavirus. Photo: 123RF In its latest update, the ministry said there were also 362 people in hospital with the virus, including four in intensive care or a high dependency unit. That compares with 391 hospitalisations and three people in ICU at the last update. Of the deaths being reported today, fourteen deaths were recorded in June, with one death recorded in April and two in March. The ministry said nine were from the Auckland region, one from Waikato, one from the Bay of Plenty, two from Taranaki, one from Hawke's Bay, one from MidCentral, one from Canterbury and one from Southern. One person was in [...]
Covid-19 update: 3235 new community cases, five further deaths in NZ
There have been 3235 new community cases of Covid-19 reported in New Zealand today, with a further five deaths of people with the coronavirus. Photo: AFP Today was the lowest number of new community cases since February, with fewer than 1000 cases reported in Auckland for the first time in months. A Flourish data visualization The seven-day rolling average of new community cases has dropped from 5919 last week to 4991 today. The Ministry of Health said this afternoon that the number of people in hospital with Covid-19 has remained unchanged from 356 yesterday, with five people now in ICU. A Flourish data visualization The five new deaths reported today take the total number of people who have died with Covid-19 in New Zealand to 1406. Two people were [...]
Fires burn through Shanghai chemical plant
Fires at a large chemical plant in the Chinese city of Shanghai have killed at least one person. They broke out around 04:00 on Saturday (20:00 GMT Friday) at one of the country's largest refining and petrochemical plants. Flames could be seen engulfing parts of the sprawling complex and spewing thick columns of black smoke into the sky. Shanghai is China's economic hub and only recently emerged from a strict pandemic lockdown lasting two months. The cause of the fires, which affected an ethylene glycol facility, is still unclear. Sinopec - the state-owned company that operates the plant in the suburb of Jinshan - said the driver of a transport vehicle had been killed and a company employee had been injured. Residents living up to 6km (four miles) away [...]
Anthony Albanese sets out domestic agenda for first sitting of new parliament
Ambitious climate change targets, ten days domestic and family violence leave and the creation of Jobs and Skills Australia will be the Albanese government’s first three pieces of business when the new parliament sits in the last week of July. In an exclusive interview with The Sun-Herald and The Sunday Age after a month in office, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also revealed Labor’s national employment summit will be held in late September or early October, the national cabinet will meet again and parliament will sit for four weeks in total before the October 25 budget. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has revealed his government’s priorities as parliament prepares to return.CREDIT:BIANCA DE MARCHI Albanese also confirmed the legislation to establish a federal integrity commission will be introduced after his government’s first [...]
£68m of cocaine delivered with bananas to two supermarkets in Czech Republic
Czech police searching more stores on same delivery route while contacting overseas counterparts about shipment from Central America The moulded cocaine cubes were found in banana boxes by supermarket employees.Photograph: Czech Police Employees at a supermarket in the Czech Republic found 840kg of cocaine worth 2bn Czech crowns (£68m) inside boxes of bananas that were delivered to the store. The delivery, which was sent to supermarkets in the towns of Jicin and Rychnov nad Kneznou in the northern region of the country, is believed to have been sent to the stores by mistake. The record amount of cocaine, which is estimated to be worth more in street value, arrived in moulded cocaine cubes on Friday. Speaking on a Czech public radio station, Jakub Frydrych, the head of the police [...]
Biden says Americans are ‘really, really down’ in rare one-on-one interview
President makes remark in Associated Press interview as approval ratings dip below 40% in recent public opinion polls Joe Biden speaks with reporters before boarding Marine One in Washington DC on Friday.Photograph: Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters Joe Biden has acknowledged in an interview that the American people are “really, really down” after a relentless two years of disease and division, rising cost of living, war in Europe and the devastating impact of the climate crisis. Speaking to the Associated Press in a rare one-on-one interview in the Oval Office on Thursday afternoon, the president touched on many topics from war to hair. “People are really, really down,” Biden told the Associated Press White House reporter Josh Boak, according to a transcript of the interview. “They’re really down.” The sit-down came at [...]
New Tauranga MP Sam Uffindell’s priorities tackling crime and gangs, easing cost of living
Tauranga's new MP says he wants the city to be the best place in which to work, play and raise a family. Sam Uffindell with his wife Julia after winning the Tauranga by-election. Photo: RNZ / Giles Dexter Sam Uffindell stormed to a comfortable early lead in yesterday's by-election, and from there his win was never in doubt. Uffindell was the runaway winner, getting 10931 votes or 56 percent of the total votes cast - although just 40 percent of the registered voters in the electorate participated. Uffindell said he was spending the first day as Tauranga's new MP with his family, before flying to Wellington for his first week at Parliament. His priorities would be the city's infrastructure, and cracking down on gangs, he said. "I'm going [...]
Seven killed in head-on crash south of Picton
Seven people, including a child, have died in a crash between a truck and a van on State Highway 1 south of Picton this morning, police have confirmed. The scene of the fatal crash near Mt Pleasant, south of Picton. Photo: Supplied / Trish Rawlings Police said the crash was at Mount Pleasant at about 7.30am this morning and was a head-on crash involving a van and a refrigerated goods truck. One person has critical injuries and one has serious injuries. They have been flown to Wellington Hospital. All of the seven who died and the two flown to Wellington were travelling in the van. The driver of the truck has minor injuries. Tasman District Commander Inspector Paul Borrell said a crash of this scale had a "huge impact" [...]
China vows support for Russia, drawing US ire
Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and Chinese President Xi Jinping arrive to pose for a photograph during their meeting in Beijing, on February 4, 2022. AFP BEIJING—President Xi Jinping on Wednesday assured Vladimir Putin of China’s support on Russian “sovereignty and security” — leading Washington to warn Beijing it risked ending up “on the wrong side of history”. China has refused to condemn Moscow’s massive military assault on Ukraine and has been accused of providing diplomatic cover for Russia by blasting Western sanctions and arms sales to Kyiv. China is “willing to continue to offer mutual support (to Russia) on issues concerning core interests and major concerns such as sovereignty and security,” state broadcaster CCTV reported Xi as saying during a call with President Putin. It was the [...]
Australians urged to save electricity to ease power crunch
FILE PHOTO: Storm clouds can be seen behind chimneys at the Bayswater coal-powered thermal power station located near the central New South Wales town of Muswellbrook, Australia, March 14, 2017. Picture taken Mach 14, 2017. REUTERS/David Gray MELBOURNE— Australia's energy minister on Thursday (Jun 16) urged households in Sydney to switch off lights in the evening to avert blackouts, as the country's power market remained suspended with more than a quarter of its coal-fired capacity knocked out. The country's energy market operator suspended the electricity spot market on Wednesday in an unprecedented move to secure power supplies, its latest drastic step to tackle an energy crisis that began in May. Efforts were focused on reviving output from coal-fired generators, Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said on Thursday, [...]
Federal Reserve announces biggest interest rate hike since 1994
Fed confirms 0.75 percentage-point increase as Americans across country hit hard by rising prices and shortages of key items The US Federal Reserve is trying to keep prices under control after inflation surged to 8.6%.Photograph: Spencer Platt/Getty Images With soaring inflation and the shadow of recession hanging over the United States, the Federal Reserve announced a 0.75 percentage-point increase in interest rates on Wednesday – the largest hike since 1994. Until this week the Fed had been expected to announce a smaller increase. At a press conference, the Fed chair, Jerome Powell, said the central bank decided that a larger hike was needed after recent economic news, including last week’s announcement that inflation had risen to a 40-year high. He made clear that a similarly outsized rate rise should [...]
Pacific a priority as Mahuta meets Oz foreign minister
Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said Australia has work to do "as a member of the Pacific family". Penny Wong and Nanaia Mahuta (Source: 1News) Wong met with New Zealand's Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta in Wellington on Thursday, as the pair reiterated the closeness of the trans-Tasman relationship. It comes a week after their Prime Ministers met and Jacinda Ardern and Anthony Albanese promised to take the trans-Tasman relationship "to a new level". Wong promised Australia and New Zealand would work together in the space of issues in the Pacific. "I think Australia has more to do as a member of the Pacific family," Wong said. "We do have some ground to make up." She made mention of the importance of tackling climate change, and spoke [...]
Covid 19: New Zealand Government confirms pre-departure tests will be scrapped
The government has confirmed pre-departure tests will be scrapped from 20 June. Covid-19 Response Minister Dr Ayesha Verrall said the government had intended to remove the requirement by 31 July but as cases continued to decline despite an increase in travellers, there was evidence the measure could now be lifted. "Around 90 percent of international arrivals undertake their required testing once they are in the country, with only a 2-3 percent positivity rate. So we don't anticipate a significant increase in border cases once the requirement is lifted," she said. The availability and cost of getting a test had also increasingly become a barrier to people travelling to New Zealand, she said. Travellers would still be required to self-test on day 0/1 and again on day 5/6. Anyone who [...]
NZ economy shrinks, GDP falls 0.2%
The economy unexpectedly contracted at the start of the year as consumers controlled their spending, exports dipped, and primary industries produced less. Gross domestic product (GDP) fell a seasonally adjusted 0.2 percent in the March quarter. Photo: 123rf Gross domestic product (GDP) fell a seasonally adjusted 0.2 percent in the three months ended March, well below expectations, and compared with a 3.0 percent rise in the previous quarter, StatsNZ data showed. Stats NZ senior manager Ruvani Ratnayake said "we saw lower output in the food, beverage, and tobacco manufacturing sub-industry; and the agriculture, forestry, and fishing industry". Manufacturing industry output fell offsetting continued growth in the construction sector. Service industries, which make up about two thirds of the economy were flat with falls in retail, hospitality, transport and telecommunications, [...]
Australian and Chinese defence ministers hold landmark meeting, ending diplomatic freeze
Defence bosses from Australia and China have met for a one-on-one meeting for the first time in almost three years, ended a two-year diplomatic freeze between Canberra and Beijing. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles said his meeting with Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe in Singapore was "important" but Australia would take its relationship with China "step by step". Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister, Richard Marles speaks during a press conference at the 19th International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-la Dialogue, Asia's annual defense and security forum, in Singapore. (AP) "China is our largest trading partner and we value a productive relationship, that's a point we've made for a long time," Marles said. "That said, we have a whole lot of national interests and [...]
Covid-19 update: 4413 new community cases, five further deaths
There are 4413 new Covid-19 cases in the community and five further deaths reported today. Photo: 123rf.com In a statement, the Ministry of Health said there were 352 people in hospital, with nine in ICU. Of the people who have died with Covid-19; two were from the Auckland region, one from Waikato, one from Bay of Plenty and one from Canterbury. One person was in their 60s, two were in their 70s, one was in their 80s and one was aged over 90, the ministry said. That brings the total number of publicly reported deaths with Covid-19 to 1325 and the seven-day rolling average of reported deaths is 13. The new community cases being reported today were located in Northland (101), Auckland (1,312), Waikato (313), Bay of Plenty (158), [...]
Wild weather: Winds reach 100km/hr in Auckland
Auckland's Harbour Bridge briefly fully closed three times today due to strong winds gusting over 100km/hr. Waka Kotahi says two lanes are now open in each direction but motorists are advised to expect delays. Auckland Harbour Bridge was closed briefly after winds of 100km/hr. Photo: Twitter / Waka Kotahi It closed around 11am for 10 minutes, then shortly after midday before reopening and then closed again. Speed restrictions were in place on the Auckland Harbour Bridge, and Waka Kotahi was advising drivers in high sided vehicles and motorcyclists to use the alternative SH16 and SH18. Two lanes in each direction were open and travellers. The temperature at Auckland Airport weather station dropped from 16C to 11C in the hour to 11.30am. MetService says the risk of lightening strikes will [...]
Ukraine fears western support will fade as media loses interest in the war
Costs and casualties are rising but Kyiv warns that the conflict with Russia is becoming normalised in people’s minds, at home and abroad Civilians are evacuated from the city of Lysychansk in the eastern region of Donbas. Photograph: Aris Messinis/AFP/Getty Images Ukraine’s war with Russia is heading towards its fifth month amid increasing local concern that dwindling media attention could lead to a gradual loss of western support just as Moscow is making slow but steady gains on the frontline. The anxiety reflects a growing normalisation of the conflict in which large parts of the country feel distant from the war in eastern Donbas – as it becomes clear that casualties are mounting and economic costs soaring. “It’s a very real threat, that people get tired psychologically,” said [...]
Winter weather: Thunderstorms, strong wind and downpours ahead
Stormy weather is continuing in much of the country with strong winds and heavy rain, while snow has closed roads in the south. In the Kāpiti Coast town of Waikanae, hit by two tornadoes last night, The fence on Paul Knighton's property on the corner of Queens Road and Barrett Drive was destroyed, and this morning his father-in-law was chainsawing trees to try clear the path. Large swells were bringing waves and coastal debris up onto the road in the Porirua suburb of Plimmerton on Monday morning. Philippa Sargent was out trying to clear a flooded drain with a shovel near her waterfront home. She said it was the worst in the time she had been been living there, with stones being thrown up over the boat ramp as [...]
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to announce ‘minor’ Cabinet reshuffle
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will unveil her promised Cabinet reshuffle this afternoon following a Labour caucus meeting to sign off on the changes. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver MPs from around the country dialed into the conference call from 8am. Labour requires a vote be held for new members to join the Executive. A spokesperson for the prime minister confirmed Ardern would announce some "minor" changes to the Cabinet line-up at 3pm. Ardern had earlier signalled she would refresh the team around the mid-year mark, which is not unusual for a government mid-term. It is widely expected that Police Minister Poto Williams will be stripped of that portfolio. Williams was appointed to the position after the 2020 election and has come under under increasing pressure in recent months amid [...]
Volcano ash blankets Philippine towns after second eruption this week
Workers sweep an ash-covered highway in Juban after the eruption of Bulusan volcano in the Philippines (Photo: AFP/Sharbyn SAYAT) JUBAN: A volcano in the Philippines spewed a huge column of ash into the sky on Sunday (Jun 12), blanketing a region still recovering from last week's eruption. The blast from Bulusan volcano lasted 18 minutes, the Philippine seismological agency said, impairing road visibility and forcing airlines to cancel flights. On Jun 5, Mount Bulusan sent a grey plume shooting up at least one kilometre and covered 10 villages with ash. Residents of Juban town in Sorsogon province, still reeling from last week's eruption, were woken up Sunday by the volcano's thundering. "I thought it was just raining, but when I looked outside there was ash everywhere," resident Antonio Habitan told [...]
Duterte wants to visit West Philippine Sea as civilian
MANILA – Outgoing President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Sunday said he wants to someday join the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on its visit to the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as a civilian despite knowing that it would be a “gamble.” President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (Screengrab from RTVM/PCOO) He made this remark in a speech during the commissioning of Barko ng Pangulo ng Pilipinas (BRP) Melchora Aquino -- the Multi-Role Response Vessel (MRRV) 9702 of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) -- at Pier 15, South Harbor in Manila. “Someday I could maybe ride with the Coast Guard to see. Maski na civilian na ako, sana bigyan ninyo akong kaunting ano lang (Even if I am already a civilian, I hope you give me a little…) that you can [...]
Samoan PM arrives in NZ for bilateral meeting with Ardern
Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa has arrived in New Zealand for her first official bilateral overseas visit since taking office, with China and regional security high on the agenda. Sworn in amid a constitutional crisis, the island nation's first female prime minister made headlines around the world last year when she was locked out of parliament, with the former government refusing to relinquish power. "Everything was resting on the judiciary. Thank God they held," she told 1News. After a year in the role, Mata’afa is now looking to cement the country's ties with New Zealand. It comes off the back of a visit to Fiji, where she helped to stitch together a deal stopping small island nations from walking away from the Pacific Islands Forum at a time [...]
China warns Taiwan independence would trigger war
REUTERS The US criticises China for increased military activity in the area China has warned the US that any attempt to make Taiwan independent from China will trigger military action by Beijing's forces. Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe met his US counterpart Lloyd Austin on the sidelines of an Asian security summit in Singapore. Splitting Taiwan from China would leave the Chinese military with no choice but to "fight at any cost", Mr Wei said. Mr Austin later called Chinese military activity "provocative, destabilising". He said there were record numbers of Chinese aircraft flying near the island on a near-daily basis, which "undermine peace and stability in the region". China views self-ruled Taiwan as an integral part of China's territory, a stance that prompted Mr Wei to condemn US [...]
Chinese police arrest nine after women attacked at restaurant
Footage shows man striking woman and dragging her outside after she pushes him away Footage of the incident was widely circulated online. Photograph: @badiucao/Twitter Nine men have been arrested over a vicious attack on a group of women at a restaurant in northern China, in a case that prompted outrage over predatory sexual behaviour and violence against women. CCTV footage of the incident widely circulated online shows a man placing his hand on a woman’s back as she shares a meal with two companions at a barbecue restaurant in the city of Tangshan in Hebei province in the early hours of Friday. After the woman pushes him away, the man strikes her before others drag her outside and deal a barrage of blows as she lies on the ground. [...]
Poll shows National’s Sam Uffindell ahead in Tauranga by-election
National's Tauranga candidate Sam Uffindell is ahead of Labour's Jan Tinetti in the lead up to the electorate's by-election, the latest Q+A Kantar Public Poll shows. National Party 's Tauranga candidate Sam Uffindell. (Source: Supplied) Eligible Tauranga voters were asked which candidate, if any, they will vote for as their local MP in the by-election, which is to be held on June 18. Q+A with Jack Tame revealed that of those polled, 45% backed National's new candidate Sam Uffindell, 35% said they would vote for Labour MP Jan Tinetti, while 7% were behind ACT's Cameron Luxton. NZ Outdoors & Freedom Party candidate Sue Grey had 3%, as did New Nation Party candidate Andrew Hollis. Thirteen per cent did not know who they would vote for next week, 4% refused [...]
Dozens of ‘501s’ overturn deportations from Australia to New Zealand
A woman who would be prevented from visiting her daughter's grave if she was deported to New Zealand is one of dozens of "501s" managing to overturn being kicked out of Australia. Photo: 123RF Figures provided to Open Justice show 38 New Zealanders ordered to leave Australia convinced a tribunal to let them stay in the year to June 2021. Since then, a further 23 have been successful in stopping their deportations under Section 501 of the Australian Migration Act, which can be triggered when a person is sent to jail for 12 months or longer. Deportees under that provision of the Act have taken to calling themselves "501s". On Friday Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern met with Australia's new leader Anthony Albanese to push for changes to the [...]
US approves US$120 million sale to maintain Taiwanese warships
A Taiwanese Navy warship arrives at the Corinto port, Nicaragua Apr 9,2018. (Photo: REUTERS/Oswaldo Rivas) TAIPEI— The United States has approved a possible US$120 million sale of parts to help Taiwan maintain its warships, which the island's defence ministry said would help ensure combat readiness in the face of China's "frequent activities" near the island. The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency said it had delivered the required certification notifying Congress following State Department approval for the sale, which was requested by Taiwan's de facto embassy in Washington. It said the sale covered unclassified spare and repair parts for ships and ship systems, logistical technical assistance, and US government and contractor representative technical and logistical support. "The proposed sale will contribute to the sustainment of the recipient's surface vessel fleet, enhancing its [...]
Jacinda Ardern talks China, 501s on Australian breakfast TV
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has done the rounds on Australian breakfast TV shows, answering questions over 501 deportations, China, and the cost of living. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern appears on Australia's The Today Show. Photo: Fair use / screenshot / The Today Show Appearing on Channel 9's The Today Show, Ardern said China needed to deal with the Pacific as a region on big issues like security, highlighting New Zealand's closeness to its island neighbours. She described New Zealand's Pacific relationships as more familial than bilateral. "We are a Pacific nation. Our connections into the Pacific, they run deep - they're family. You know, we have large Pacific communities in New Zealand, Pacific members of Parliament, Pacific Ministers. So the relationship for us is not a bilateral relationship, it's [...]
PH to pursue ‘critical engagement’ with China
Philippines (UP) political science professor Clarita Carlos. File Photo THE administration of President-elect Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos will pursue a "critical engagement" with China despite the dispute over the West Philippine Sea (WPS), incoming National Security Adviser (NSA) Clarita Carlos said on Thursday. Carlos, a former University of the Philippines professor, said she discussed the Philippines' relationship with China during a lengthy meeting with Marcos on Wednesday prior to her appointment. "You mentioned the magic word 'critical,' yan ang isa sa mga napag-usapan namin ni President Marcos (It's one of the topics that we discussed with President Marcos)," she said. China has been claiming the WPS as part of its territory, refusing to recognize an arbitral court ruling in 2016 that the Philippines has jurisdiction over it. The critical engagement [...]
Bongbong Marcos ‘welcome to visit United States’ – top official
Metro Manila, Philippines— President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. can invoke his immunity as head of state when visiting the United States, according to a high-ranking US official. US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman told reporters in a media briefing on Thursday that Marcos can perform his official duties in Washington without fear of facing legal consequences. “The fact is when you’re the head of state you have immunity in all circumstances,” Sherman said. Sherman did not elaborate on the legal process and up to what extent Marcos can avail of his immunity. Before winning the May 9 polls, Marcos faced the risk of being required to appear in court due to his non-compliance to a class suit ruling against his family. Non-appearance in court could lead to detention [...]
Pan-coronavirus vaccine could be on market in a year’s time – vaccinologist
The first pan-coronavirus vaccine could be on the market in a year's time, says a New Zealand vaccinologist says. A pan-coranavirus vaccine is now being developed by the US military. Photo: AFP Vaccine researchers are increasingly interested in the pursuit of a universal coronavrious vaccine that is resistant to all variants. University of Auckland vaccinologist Helen Petousis-Harris said a such a vaccine was close, with the US defence industry behind the most advanced trial being undertaken. "I guess the most advanced pan-coronavirus vaccine is now in human trials and it looks very promising. It worked every well in our non-human primate friends and it's been in development for quite some years," she told Morning Report. Existing vaccines have found it hard to stop symptoms or transmission, but work well [...]
UK Ministry of Defence acquires government’s first quantum computer
GETTY IMAGES The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has acquired the government's first quantum computer. Quantum computers can make very complex calculations extremely quickly and their creators say they can solve the problems regular computers cannot. The MoD will work with British company Orca Computing to explore applications for quantum technology in defence. Stephen Till, of the MoD's Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), called it a "milestone moment". The computers found in most of our homes and workplaces process data in bits, which have a binary value of either zero or one. Quantum computers instead use a two-state unit for data processing called a qubit. This can represent digits like one or zero simultaneously through a quantum mechanical process called superposition, letting quantum computers bridge binary digits and cope [...]
Climate change: New Zealand’s plan to tax cow and sheep burps
GETTY IMAGES New Zealand has unveiled a plan to tax sheep and cattle burps in a bid to tackle one of the country's biggest sources of greenhouse gases. It would make it the first nation to charge farmers for the methane emissions from the animals they keep. New Zealand is home to just over five million people, along with around 10 million cattle and 26 million sheep. Almost half the country's total greenhouse gas emissions come from agriculture, mainly methane. However, agricultural emissions have previously not been included in New Zealand's emissions trading scheme, which has been criticised by those calling for the government to do more to stop global warming. "There is no question that we need to cut the amount of methane we are putting into [...]
Britons sentenced to death after ‘show trial’ in Russian-occupied Ukraine
Aiden Aslin and Shaun Pinner were captured while fighting in Ukrainian army From left: Aiden Aslin, Shaun Pinner and Saaudun Brahim in court this week. Photograph: Telegram Two British men and a Moroccan national captured while fighting in the Ukrainian army in Mariupol have been sentenced to death by pro-Russia officials after a days-long process described as a “disgusting Soviet-era show trial”. A court in Russian-controlled east Ukraine convicted 28-year-old Aiden Aslin, from Newark, 48-year-old Shaun Pinner, from Watford, and Saaudun Brahim on charges of “terrorism”. Observers said the process was intended to imitate the war crimes trials of Russian soldiers taking place in Kyiv. Both Britons have said they were serving in the Ukrainian marines, making them active-duty soldiers who should be protected by the Geneva conventions [...]
Christopher Luxon urges Poto Williams to be removed as Police Minister
National Party leader Christopher Luxon is calling for Police Minister Poto Williams to be removed from the role, saying she's "not equipped". Christopher Luxon. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver Luxon has been adamant stronger anti-gang laws are needed to combat the recent rise in tensions, and touted Australian-style laws including allowing police to search for guns with a warrant. He told Morning Report that Williams should be removed from the position, adding "she could add value to other portfolios, but she's clearly out of her depth, things aren't getting better". A rivalry between the Tribesmen and Killer Beez gangs has spurred an increase in shootings, up to eight in a single night in Auckland. Luxon said New Zealanders were feeling unsafe. "It's another night, another shooting. There's been 23 [...]
Aussie home prices suffer biggest slowdown in 30 years
After near-record rises during the pandemic, home prices in Australian capital cities are now slowing at their most rapid pace since 1989, according to new data. The slowdown over the last six months is worse than the stagnation and turbulence which hit the housing market in 2004 and the Global Financial Crisis in 2008. Just-released PropTrack analysis found the annual rate of home price growth in capital cities had dropped from 24 per cent, in January, to 14 per cent. The RBA surprised many economists by raising the cash rate by half a percentage point, the biggest hike in more than 20 years, with warnings of more to come. (SMH / Sam Mooy) However, despite cooling in the market, prices are still up 35 per cent since the start [...]
Cambodia, China deny naval base reports as Australia voices concern
Cambodia's Ream naval base has been a running sore spot in US-Cambodian relations for years. (Photo: AFP/Tang Chhin Sothy) PHNOM PENH— Cambodia and Beijing on Tuesday (Jun 7) denied a report that they are building a secret naval facility for the Chinese fleet, as Australia's new prime minister voiced concern and called for transparency. The Washington Post, citing unnamed Western officials, said a new facility at Cambodia's Ream base - strategically located on the Gulf of Thailand - was being built for the "exclusive" use of the Chinese navy. The base has been a running sore spot in US-Cambodian relations for years, with Washington long suspecting it is being converted for use by China as it seeks to buttress its international influence with a network of military outposts. Cambodia's Deputy Prime [...]
New Health System Act passes third reading in Parliament
Legislation to create a new public health system has passed its third reading in parliament, and the bill is now just one step from becoming law. The bill will become law after receiving the royal assent from the governor-general - a ceremonial step. (Source: rnz.co.nz) Labour's Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Bill sets out the Government's vision for a health system restructure that is just weeks away from coming into force. It was first introduced in October last year and received more than 4500 submissions. The legislation was the biggest building block in the government's health reforms. Now it has passed three readings in parliament the bill would become law after receiving the royal assent from the governor-general - a ceremonial step. Minister of Health Andrew Little said it [...]
Man shot dead by police in Newlands had knife to woman’s throat
A man with gang links had a knife to a woman's throat when he was shot dead by police in Wellington, the region's police commander says. Police at scene of Newlands incident. (Source: 1News) The event unfolded on Tuesday afternoon in Newlands after officers were called to a "family harm incident". The man was shot after he threatened officers and attempted to barricade himself inside a Kingsbridge Place house with a woman. Acting Wellington District Commander Inspector Tracey Thompson said on Wednesday officers had been "confronted" by a man threatening the woman and a young child. Although the young child was able to leave the house, "voice appeals" to the man were not successful. Man shot dead by police in Wellington had gang links, police say Acting Wellington District [...]
Global dairy prices rise for first time in three months
Global dairy prices have risen for the first time in three months. The average price at the fortnightly sale rose 1.5 percent. Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King The average price at the fortnightly sale rose 1.5 percent to $US4656 a tonne, after falling 2.9 percent in the previous auction. The price of wholemilk powder, which strongly influences the payouts for local farmers, was fractionally lower to $US4,158 a tonne. "It would seem that dairy commodity prices have bounced, and the market is ready to push higher again," NZX dairy analyst Stu Davison said. The increase was the first since the start of March and lifted the global dairy price index off its low point for the year. The volumes sold were down by nearly 12 percent, which Davison said [...]
Food shortages are next global health crisis -expert
French President Emmanuel Macron, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of World Health Organization (WHO), and Agnes Buzyn, French Minister for Solidarity and Health, and Peter Alexander Sands, British banker, and the executive director of the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, pose after a meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France, January 11, 2019. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/Pool LONDON- Growing food shortages may represent the same health threat to the world as the COVID-19 pandemic, a leading global health figure has warned. Rising food and energy prices, in part sparked by the war in Ukraine, could kill millions both directly and indirectly, Peter Sands, the executive director of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday. "Food shortages work in two [...]
Duterte trusts next admin will ‘do its very best’ to fight drugs
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – President Rodrigo R. Duterte believes the administration of his successor, President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will “do its very best” in continuing the fight against illegal drugs. (File photo) “Well, I trust that the next administration will also do its very best to confront itong drug[s],” he said in a prerecorded Talk to the People. Although he admitted that he is “scared” that the drug industry would proliferate when his term ends, he expressed confidence that the police and military would “maintain the momentum” in the anti-narcotics campaign. “I place my full trust and confidence on the two institutions that we have na iyon lang ang ating panglaban (that fight for us): it's the police and the military. These [...]
Philippines’ North Star deferring up to $85 million IPO – sources
MANILA— Philippines' North Star Meat Merchants Inc is deferring its up to 4.5 billion pesos ($85 million) initial public offering because of increased market volatility, two sources with knowledge of the decision said on Tuesday. North Star, among the largest meat retailers and suppliers in the Southeast Asian nation, was supposed to offer its shares on June 13 to 17, followed by its listing on June 24.
Hawke’s Bay Hospital grapples with changing seismic risks
New earthquake modelling will raise the hazard levels in some places, including large parts of Hawke's Bay, where the hospital is already grappling with shifting seismic goalposts. Hawke's Bay Hospital. Photo: Sandy Millar / Hawke's Bay Hospital The biggest revision of the National Seismic Hazard Model in 20 years will draw on extensive research into the Hikurangi subduction zone - what GNS Science calls "the Sleeping Giant". This will begin to impact the Building Code from the end of next year. Georgia McCombe knows what is at stake - her job at Hawke's Bay Regional Council's East Coast Lab is to alert locals to the zone's risks. "It's our largest source of seismic hazard and recent research also tells us that there is about a one-in-four chance of a [...]
Gaps in learning, behavioural issues worsening as students struggle in pandemic – teachers
Principals and teachers warn they are seeing worse behaviour and achievement after two-and-a-half-years of pandemic disruption. File photo. Photo: 123RF They told RNZ many young people were doing well, but some had gaps in their learning and had missed basic routines and socialisation that helped them get along with one another and with their teachers. They said the situation was worst in Auckland, where schools had lost more time to lockdowns than schools in other parts of the country. An Auckland teacher told RNZ he was seeing more aggression and worse achievement among teenagers. "Three years of Covid have taken a huge toll on student skills, knowledge and cognitive functioning. Many struggle to concentrate when they are here, and the gaps in their learning are significant. Student behaviour [...]
Ardern denies NZ is asleep at wheel as China pushes into Pacific
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has denied New Zealand is asleep at the wheel as China continues its push into the Pacific. New Zealand has been a significant presence in the region for years and will continue to be one, the prime minister told Breakfast on Tuesday morning. Ardern said Australia, New Zealand and Japan had the biggest aid and development spend in the Pacific. "In fact, for this term, we've increased our spend in the Pacific by 45% and that's because of the climate need in the region," she said. "If you ask the Pacific, which we do often, what is your number one priority, they'll say it's climate change. So we're there on our terms, working alongside them and the nature of our relationship really matters because we [...]
China warns Australia risks ‘serious consequences’ after jet interception
A J-16 fighter jet performing in the sky in this photo taken on Oct 17, 2019. (File photo: AFP/STR) BEIJING— Beijing on Monday (Jun 6) warned Australia to "act prudently" or face "serious consequences" after Canberra accused a Chinese fighter jet of dangerously intercepting one of its spy planes over the South China Sea. Australia has argued it is not unusual for it to undertake surveillance flights in the South China Sea - a region Beijing insists comes under its domain despite a 2016 Hague ruling that dismissed its claims. China's stance has heightened tensions with the United States and its allies, which insist on freedom of navigation in the area. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said on Sunday that a Chinese J-16 fighter intercepted a P-8 surveillance aircraft [...]
PM Jacinda Ardern says work underway to address nursing shortage, union remains unconvinced
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the government is working to reduce the global nursing shortage's impact on the healthcare system. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. File photo Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver Nearly one-in-three nursing students are dropping out before qualifying, due to financial pressure, family responsibilities and other factors made worse by Covid-19. At the same time, health boards and rest homes are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars trying to attract nurses from overseas to fill an estimated 4000 vacancies. But there are forces working the other way. The New South Wales government has unveiled a $4.5 billion package to recruit more than 10,000 staff - with New Zealanders sure to be in its sights. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told Morning Report the government was aware of the [...]
Buy-now-pay-later users struggle as economy tightens
The rising cost of living is hitting Kiwis trying to pay off debt, with those in buy-now-pay-later payments schemes struggling. Companies like Afterpay, Laybuy, Humm and Zipp have all risen in popularity in recent years. The buy now, pay later (BNPL) providers offer short-term, interest-free loans which people can use to buy anything from groceries to clothes to electronics. While borrowers do not pay interest if things go to plan, late fees are added when payments are missed. And Keith McLaughlin, Managing Director of Centrix, says the number of those getting pinged is on the rise. “As the economy is tightening and they're being squeezed, that the arrears are starting to increase, not so much mortgage, that's reasonably under control but more with the unsecured lending.” While the amount [...]
Johnny Depp wins defamation case against ex-wife Amber Heard
A Virginia jury has ruled that actor Amber Heard defamed her ex-husband Johnny Depp in an article in which she said she was a victim of abuse. Members of Johnny Depp's legal team hug after the jury said that they believe Amber defamed her ex-husband Johnny Depp. Photo: The jury has awarded Depp US$10 million in compensatory damages and $5m in punitive damages. The jury found that Heard's statements about her marriage were "false" and she acted with "actual malice". The decision was read in Fairfax County Circuit Court in Virginia. Depp, the 58-year-old Pirates of the Caribbean star, sued Heard for US$50 million and argued that she defamed him when she called herself "a public figure representing domestic abuse" in a newspaper opinion piece. Heard, 36, countersued [...]
Covid-19 update: 18 more deaths, 8436 more community cases in NZ
There have been 18 more deaths of people with Covid-19 and 8436 new cases identified in the community, the Ministry of Health has reported. Photo: 123rf.com There are 389 hospitalisations reported today, with nine in ICU. Of whose who died three were from Northland, two were from the Auckland region, one was from Waikato, one was from Taranaki, two were from Midcentral, two from Nelson Marlborough, three from Canterbury, two from West Coast and two from the Southern region. One person was in their 50s, two were in their 60s, one was in their 70s, eight were in their 80s and six were over 90. Ten were male and eight were female. Yesterday there were five more deaths reported of people with the virus, and 5836 new community cases. [...]
Biden will not supply Ukraine with long-range rockets that can hit Russia
Moscow has threatened retaliation if missiles are used against its territory but US plans to ship shorter range systems US Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) launches a rocket into the air during a live fire training exercise. Photograph: Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Images Joe Biden has said the US will not supply Ukraine with rockets that can reach into Russia, in an attempt to ease tensions with Moscow over the potential deployment of long-range missiles with a range of about 185 miles. The White House has been weighing up pleas from Ukraine – which is losing ground in the battle for Donbas – for multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS) to offset Moscow’s increasingly effective use of long-range artillery, amid Russian warnings that doing so would cross a red line. “We are not [...]
EU clinches compromise deal on banning Russian oil
PHOTONEWS VIA GETTY IMAGES Ursula von der Leyen had said expectations were low European Union leaders have agreed a compromise plan to block more than two-thirds of Russian oil imports after Hungary opposed a total ban. European Council chief Charles Michel said the deal cut off "a huge source of financing" for the Russian war machine. He added that it put "maximum pressure on Russia to end the war". The ban is part of a sixth package of sanctions approved at a summit in Brussels, which all 27 member states had to agree on. Mr Michel said the EU had also agreed hard-hitting measures targeting Russia's largest bank and three state-owned broadcasters. EU members spent hours struggling to resolve their differences over the ban on Russian oil imports, with [...]
Jacinda Ardern prepares to meet US President amid logistical challenges
The Prime Minister is preparing to meet the American President Joe Biden at the White House in less than 24 hours, but don't expect any flashy announcements. Jacinda Ardern has talked to the US President Joe Biden several times, but this will be the first time they have met face to face. Photo: Nicholas Kamm, Dave Lintott / AFP John Key was the last PM to stop by seven years ago. Jacinda Ardern says this visit is all about cementing the relationship with the United States, she describes as "incredibly strong". She and President Biden have talked "several times" over the phone or via Zoom, but "there's nothing quite like meeting face to face", she told reporters in Washington DC. Ukraine and trade, namely the US proposed Indo-Pacific [...]
Trump: US should fund safe schools before Ukraine
Former President Donald Trump has called on US lawmakers to prioritise funding for school security over sending military aid to Ukraine. Speaking at a pro-gun conference, Mr Trump questioned how the US "has $40 billion to send to Ukraine" but cannot ensure security in schools. The meeting of the National Rifle Association (NRA), the largest US gun group, is taking place in Houston. The intervention comes days after 21 people died in a Texas school shooting. "Before we nation-build the rest of the world, we should be building safe schools for our own children in our own nation," Mr Trump said in Friday's speech, drawing loud applause. Earlier this month, the US Congress overwhelmingly voted to send nearly $40bn (£31bn) in military aid to Ukraine. In total, US lawmakers [...]
Recession fears? Some businesses in Singapore bracing for troubled times ahead
Office workers walking along Raffles Place MRT Station. (File photo: Calvin Oh) SINGAPORE— Just as things are picking up for some businesses after the toll of a prolonged pandemic, the much-dreaded R-word has re-emerged. “I’d say that most of the world has adapted to living with COVID-19, so our orders have actually been increasing during this period,” said Ms Joyce Seow, group executive director of contract manufacturing firm Watson EP Industries. “But now, we are talking about recession again.” Warnings about another global recession have been sounded – from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at his annual May Day Rally speech to political and business leaders gathered at the World Economic Forum in Davos. For Ms Seow, the topic came up at a recent meeting with the company’s bankers, [...]
China signs deal with Samoa; Fiji leader meets with Australian minister
China's foreign minister signed a deal with Samoa on Saturday to strengthen diplomatic relations, while Australia's new leader said he had a "comprehensive plan" for the Pacific, as Beijing and Canberra continued rival campaigns to woo the region. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) talks to Samoa Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa during an agreements signing ceremony between the two countries in Apia. Photo: VAITOGI ASUISUI MATAFEO China is building on a security pact it recently signed with Solomon Islands, which has alarmed the United States and its allies such as Australia as they fear a stepped-up military presence by Beijing. Australia's new centre-left government has made the Pacific Islands an early diplomatic priority. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, sworn in on Monday, said on Saturday his Labor government's [...]
New Zealand, California announce climate change partnership
New Zealand and California have signed a pledge agreeing to help fight climate change. California Gov. Gavin Newsom and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern pose with agreements they signed at the San Francisco Botanical Garden. (Source: Associated Press) The countries will share ideas and best practices, including how to put millions more electric vehicles on the road. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, spoke about the agreement at San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. The agreement doesn't commit either government to specific policies but outlines broad areas for cooperation. "We have a natural connection and I'm so pleased we've put pen to paper today to confirm that and continue our cooperation on one of the great challenges from our generation," Ardern said. Cars, trucks [...]
Tiwai Point: Toxic waste clean-up cost doubles to $687m
Tiwai Point aluminium smelter has doubled its clean-up costs to almost $700m, and documents show one reason is that getting rid of the most toxic of its waste is far from plain sailing. File photo: Tiwai Point aluminium smelter Photo: Otago Daily Times / Stephen Jaquiery They show the company last year was pleading it was "desperate" to get exporting under way of the nastiest of its waste, spent cell lining or SCL, which is laced with toxic fluoride and cyanide. It had a lack of storage space and asked repeatedly for the Environmental Protection Authority to move faster on helping it get a permit to ship the SCL offshore. A small mountain of the waste - under a cover - remains beside the beach by Foveaux Strait, [...]
Ukraine invasion: NZ Defence Force to teach Ukrainian troops how to use dial sights we don’t need anymore
Hundreds of Ukrainian soldiers will be taught how to direct fire on enemies using 40 of New Zealand's dial sights that we don't need anymore. It comes as Russian forces attempt to close off the last escape routes for parts of eastern Ukraine - trapping civilians and soldiers. With a twist of the dial and the calculations just right, gunners from the 16th Field Regiment are ready to take aim. But instead of them taking the shot, they'll teach Ukrainians how to use our dial sights. "I know we've announced 230 [troops] but we're still waiting for those confirmed numbers out of Ukraine to make sure we train the numbers they need," says commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Dean Gerling. Targets can't be seen through the sight, but instead help [...]
Firearms debate weighs on Jacinda Ardern’s Capitol meetings
The Texas shooting and gun control debates have largely overshadowed Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's visits to Senators at the United States Capitol. Prime MInister Jacinda Ardern with Democrat senate majority leader Chuck Schumer and other senators on Wednesday afternoon (US time). Photo: AFP Fresh from appearing on The Late Show and musing on New Zealand's own ongoing gun control efforts the night before, Ardern spent much of the second full day of her US trade in Washington DC meeting with Senators and members of Congress. The morning kicked off a series of face-to-face meetings with six politicians, and in the afternoon a bipartisan senate leadership meeting with another eight. While they may otherwise have been largely focused on geo-politics and trade, much of the attention was on the [...]
Aussie power bills to soar from July 1 as regulator lifts prices
Aussie households are set to be hit by a surge in the cost of their power bills from July after the nation's energy regulator raised benchmark prices for retailers. The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) today said it was raising default market offer (DMO) price caps, which is essentially the maximum retailers can charge households and businesses on default offers. As a result, default offers will increase by more than $220 per year in New South Wales, more than $160 in Queensland and more than $120 in South Australia. Aussie power bills are set to rise by as much as $200 when the DMO takes effect on July 1. (AAP) The AER said the rise in the DMO was necessary given that wholesale costs for retailers have risen substantially as [...]
Jacinda Ardern says New Zealand ‘ready to respond’ to Pacific’s security needs as China seeks deal in region
Prime minister says ‘the Pacific is our home’ as Beijing plans a regional security pact with almost a dozen island nations New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern says she believes the Pacific could meet its security needs internally, implying it should do so without Chinese intervention from China. Photograph: Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images Jacinda Ardern says New Zealand is “ready to respond” to security needs in the Pacific, after it emerged China is planning a Pacific-wide security deal with almost a dozen island nations. The prime minister, who is touring the US, said she believed the Pacific could meet its security needs internally, implying it should do so without intervention from China or elsewhere. “On anything related to security arrangements, we are very strongly of the view that we have [...]
7591 new Covid cases on Thursday, 16 deaths reported
There are 7591 new Covid-19 cases in the community, the Ministry of Health announced on Thursday. Rapid antigen test. (Source: istock.com) The numbers were reported over the past 24 hours. Sixteen more deaths of people with Covid-19 have been reported, bringing New Zealand’s total number of Covid-related deaths to 1102. The seven-day rolling average of reported deaths is now at 12. The ministry says seven of the reported deaths were from the Auckland region, three from both Canterbury and the Wellington region, and one each of Lakes, Bay of Plenty, and the Southern region. "Out of respect, we will be making no further comment on these deaths," it said. Two people were in their 60s, two were in their 70s, eight were in their 80s, and four were [...]
‘Huge day’ as Australia flights return to Queenstown
Queenstown is ready to roll out the welcome mat after 330 days without a scheduled international flight. Queenstown Bay, Lake Whakatipu, with NZL14 in the background (Source: istock.com) Monday afternoon's Qantas flight from Sydney marks the return of direct trans-Tasman travel to the resort town. It is a big morale boost for businesses before skiers start hitting the slopes next month. When Glen Sowry took on the top job at Queenstown Airport last year, the country was still in lockdown. "Walking around the terminal was like something out of a western with tumbleweed blowing down the street. No passengers, no planes, so it was all a little surreal. "But it's steadily built back from there." The return of Australians would be a massive shot in the arm [...]
PM’s US trip: Trade and Ukraine war on the agenda if Biden meeting goes ahead – Jacinda Ardern
The prime minister says there is goodwill on both sides to make a White House visit happen while she's in the United States. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern leaves on a trade mission to the States tonight, but a meeting with President Joe Biden is yet to be confirmed. Ardern is back at the Beehive after a week at home with Covid-19. She told Morning Report a visit to the White House hasn't been confirmed because complex protocols around Covid clearance need to be met. "I think it's fair to say I'm probably the only leader that I know of who has probably gone into the States with a Covid infection in such close proximity so it just means there's just a few extra [...]
Busy day for Bongbong as 4 envoys slated to make joint courtesy call
PHILIPPINES— It will be a busy Monday for presumptive president Bongbong Marcos as he is expected to receive four diplomats from four important trade partner-nations of the Philippines in a joint courtesy call. Presumptive president Bongbong Marcos (Facebook) The courtesy call, to be held at the BBM headquarters in Mandaluyong city from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. will carried out by the following: Japanese Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko, South Korean Ambassador Kim Inchul, Indian Ambassador Shambhu Kumaran, and United States (US) Chargé d’Affaires Heather Variava. A media advisory sent by the Marcos camp to reporters on Sunday night bared that the courtesy call to the incoming president would be “closed door”, meaning there will no media practitioners allowed inside. However, the reporters were promised to have access for interviews from [...]
Inflation will become ‘very serious problem’ for the world if measures are not taken: PM Lee
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong speaks during an interview in Washington on May 13, 2022. (Photo: Ministry of Communications and Information) SINGAPORE— Inflation will become a very serious problem for the world if measures are not taken to address it, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in an interview with Nikkei Asia on Friday (May 20). Highlighting the challenges of tackling inflation, Mr Lee said: “The difficulty is that now that inflation is quite high, you need quite drastic measures in order to bring it back down and prevent inflationary expectations from taking root. “It is very difficult to do that and have a soft landing. There is a considerable risk of doing what you need to do but as a result provoking a recession.” He added: “It has [...]
China makes 10 billion yuan available to subsidise grain growers
FILE PHOTO: A farmer plants seeds in a corn field at a farm in Gaocheng, Hebei province, China, September 30, 2015. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon/File Photo BEIJING— China's central government has made available 10 billion yuan (US$1.49 billion) for "one-off" subsidies to support individuals and companies involved in grain cultivation and production, according to a statement published on Sunday (May 22) by the country's Ministry of Finance. The subsidies aim to support grain growers during the summer and autumn harvest and sowing period, to alleviate any impact of rising costs and to "further mobilise farmers' enthusiasm" for cultivating grain, the statement said. The announcement comes at a time when China's farmers are grappling with high fertiliser prices, which have soared globally since last year. The upcoming wheat harvest in China will [...]
Falun Gong protester who used fake visa granted refugee status
New Zealand has halted the deportation of a Falun Gong follower who entered on fake papers, granting her refugee status on the grounds she could face serious harm if returned to China. The Chinese woman and her "husband" landed at Auckland International Airport in November 2019 , clearing customs with visas applied for using false marriage and work papers. She had never met the man who posed as her husband until the travel agent brought them together at the airport, according to the summary of facts in the recently released tribunal decision dated 30 March 2022. She never saw him again after that. The single, divorced mother in her early 40s had paid an agent some RMB 70,000 (about NZ $14,000) to get her New Zealand visa, money borrowed [...]
Australia election: Anthony Albanese leads Labor to Australian election victory
GETTY IMAGES From social housing, to the country's highest office: Anthony Albanese has claimed election victory Anthony Albanese is set to become Australia's next prime minister after leading the Labor Party to its first election victory in almost a decade. One of the country's longest-serving politicians, he promised voters "safe change" as he worked to kick out the conservative Liberal-National coalition which has been in power since 2013. Where ousted Prime Minister Scott Morrison is a self-described "bulldozer", Mr Albanese vows to be a "builder". After the pandemic, which saw Australian states cut off from each other and cities splintered by strict lockdowns, fostering unity is a top priority for the new leader. "I want to bring Australians together. I want to seek our common purpose and promote unity [...]
Australia’s incoming prime minister Anthony Albanese delivers victory speech
Australia's Labor leader Anthony Albanese will be sworn in tomorrow as the new prime minister after incumbent Prime Minister Scott Morrison conceded defeat after yesterday's election. Anthony Albanese (centre), accompanied by his partner Jodie Haydon and son Nathan Albanese, at a reception in Sydney after winning the general election. Photo: AFP / Wendell Teodoro The Labor Party is set to end almost a decade of conservative rule as the government was swept away in the election by a wave of support for candidates who campaigned for more action on climate change and may hold the balance of power. Partial results showed that while Labor had made small gains, Prime Minister Scott Morrison's Liberal-National coalition had been punished by voters in Western Australia and affluent urban seats in particular. [...]
Covid-19 update: Ten more deaths, 4990 new community cases in NZ today
The number of new community cases has dropped below the 5000 mark today, but the seven-day rolling average is still up on last week. Photo: 123rf.com In today's statement, the Ministry of Health said while there were 4990 new community cases today, the seven day rolling average has risen from 7608 a week ago to 7863 today. There were also 10 new deaths reported, including two people in their 70s, six in their 80s and two aged over 90. Nine were men and one was a woman. Ttwo were from the Auckland region; two from Waikato; one from Lakes; one from MidCentral; three from Canterbury; and one from Southern. There are 379 people in hospital with the coronavirus, down from 400 yesterday, with nine in ICU. There were 6635 [...]
Special Ukraine visa: Jump in the number of people seeking refuge in NZ
More than 150 Ukrainians have now arrived in New Zealand on a special visa aimed at supporting international humanitarian efforts. Ukraine refugees arriving in Krakow, Poland on March 6, 2022 Photo: AFP Immigration New Zealand numbers show so far 666 visas have been approved and 157 visa holders have arrived in New Zealand under the 2022 Special Ukraine Visa Category. These figures were a jump from those provided a month prior which showed approval for 463 visas and 92 Ukrainians touching down in New Zealand. No applications had been declined. In March, Immigration Minister Faafoi called this the largest special visa category ever established by New Zealand. The visa however has been criticised for its tight criteria. Only family members of Ukrainians who are already living in New Zealand [...]
Covid-19 update: Five more deaths, 9091 new community cases reported in NZ
There are 9091 new community cases of Covid-19 and five further deaths being reported today. Photo: 123RF In a statement, the Ministry of Health said 411 people with the virus were in hospital, with 12 in ICU. A Flourish data visualization Of the deaths being reported today, one was in their 70s and four were in their 80s. One was from the Wellington region; one from Bay of Plenty and three from Southern. The number of people with Covid-19 who have died in New Zealand is now 1022. Today's new community cases were reported in Northland (260), Auckland (3,233), Waikato (696), Bay of Plenty (291), Lakes (175), Hawke's Bay (303), MidCentral (281), Whanganui (124), Taranaki (265), Tairāwhiti (82), Wairarapa (83), Capital and Coast (595), Hutt Valley (250), Nelson Marlborough [...]
NZ Budget 2022 at a glance: What you need to know
There's a lot of spending flying around in Budget 2022 - here are the main expenses in an easy-to-read list. Finance Minister Grant Robertson Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver Cost of living: $1b package $814m for a $350 per person cost-of-living payment for individuals earning under $70k, equating to $27 a week per person over three months from 1 August for about 2.1m people, Funding to continue half-price public transport fares for further two months, plus ongoing concession for Community Services cardholders, $235m to continue fuel excise and road user charge reductions for a further two months $73m for 26,500 more insulation and heating retrofits for low-income homeowners Urgent supermarket legislation to ban covenants over land as a barrier to supermarkets accessing new sites and restricting competition Child support [...]
Budget 2022: Pressure on Roberston amid skyrocketing prices and spending commitments
Power Play - It's time for the Budget - one of the hardest Finance Minister Grant Robertson has had to put together. Finance Minister Grant Robertson with the Wellbeing Budget 2022 Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver Sandwiched between the expectations of New Zealanders looking on with disbelief at skyrocketing prices and Labour's big spending policy commitments, his challenge is to balance those short term pressures against longer term investment. The grinding effect of the pandemic is taking its toll on the New Zealand economy, hitting households and businesses hard. Workforce availability, shutdowns in China and Russia's invasion of Ukraine are causing even more chaos. While unemployment is at record lows, that makes skills shortages more severe and any upward pressure on wage rates is quickly swallowed up by [...]
PM Jacinda Ardern on Covid-19 recovery: ‘I’ve lost all my taste’
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has shared the traditional pre-Budget breakfast with the Finance Minister - though socially distanced - and revealed she had lost her sense of taste. Jacinda Ardern has shared the traditional pre-Budget breakfast with the Finance Minister via Instagram. Photo: Screenshot / Instagram Each year on Budget morning the prime minister gifts Grant Robertson a tie and the pair have a cheese roll breakfast before the day kicks off. This time it was via Instagram as Ardern continues in isolation after testing positive for Covid-19 on Saturday "I wasn't going to let Covid get in the way of this tradition," she said on Instagram. Cheese rolls had been delivered to her house, but Ardern said she had forgotten they were in the oven and they [...]
Human rights and dollar costs: Immigration reviews health rules
Health requirements for new residents are under the microscope as Immigration New Zealand examines how much certain conditions cost to treat, and as the government is asked to repeal laws which bar human rights complaints related to immigration. Photo: 123RF More than 1500 people have had their temporary or permanent visa refused in the last five years because they were likely to impose significant costs or demands on health services. Aisling Smyth is from Northern Ireland and works as an accounts administration manager in Queenstown. "I've got mild relapse-remitting multiple sclerosis and I've had it for about nine years now," she said. "But otherwise, fit and healthy and it's well-managed. It doesn't define me really but when it came to setting down roots and keeping ties here in [...]
US midterm elections 2022 Republican ‘big lie’ supporters triumph in sign of Trump’s enduring power
Hard-right candidates who challenged 2020 result win string of primary victories on a good night too for progressive Democrats Doug Mastriano, who won the primary contest for governor in Pennsylvania. Mastriano was a key figure in the efforts to overturn the election in his state. Photograph: Carolyn Kaster/AP Republican candidates who questioned, denied and challenged the results of the 2020 presidential election won a string of consequential primaries in Pennsylvania and North Carolina this week, a testament to the enduring power of Donald Trump’s voter fraud myth, which continues to animate the hard-right movement he started. In a campaign season dominated by angst over the economy and frustration with leadership in Washington, several hard-right candidates successfully channeled conservative grassroots momentum, and are now in striking distance of positions that [...]
Jacinda Ardern says Covid’s taken her sense of taste
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says Covid-19 has taken her sense of taste. Jacinda Ardern and Grant Robertson on an Instagram live (Source: Supplied) Speaking with Grant Robertson on an Instagram live ahead of Thursday afternoon's Budget, the pair discussed their respective efforts at making cheese rolls, a tradition between the pair. While Roberton's looked exceptional, Ardern admitted a meeting had got in the way of a proper effort and hers looked a "bit beige". "They will taste just as good," she said. "But you know what, I'm not going to know, because I've lost all my taste." "I hope that comes back for you soon," Robertson quipped. The PM's been isolating since her partner Clarke Gayford and then herself and daughter Neve caught the virus. She won't be at [...]
PSC: PH on track to meet goal of at least finishing 3rd in Vietnam SEA Games
Metro Manila, Philippines– Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Commissioner Ramon Fernandez expressed optimism that Filipino athletes will meet their goal of at least finishing in third spot in the overall medal tally of the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam. “We are halfway through the Games, and we are in the top three of the medal standings. We are well within our target of finishing at least third overall. We just have to maintain our performance until the end,” Fernandez, Team Philippines chef de mission to the games, said on Tuesday. After four days of competition, Team Philippines collected 30 gold, 34 silver, and 44 bronze medals for a total of 108 medals. The country is currently in third place in the overall medal tally, six gold medals behind second [...]
Pollution behind 1 in 6 global deaths in 2019: Study
Burning oil, gas and coal for energy is responsible for the lion's share of CO2 pollution. (Photo: AFP/Ina Fassbender) PARIS— Pollution caused about 9 million people to die prematurely in 2019, according to a new global report published on Wednesday (May 18), with experts raising alarm over increasing deaths from breathing outside air and the "horrifying" toll of lead poisoning. Human-created waste in the air, water and soil rarely kills people immediately, but causes instead heart disease, cancer, respiratory problems, diarrhoea and other serious illnesses. The Lancet Commission on pollution and health said the impact from pollution on global health remains "much greater than that of war, terrorism, malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, drugs and alcohol". Pollution is an "existential threat to human health and planetary health, and jeopardises the sustainability [...]
Pandemic delays held up 150,000 court appearances
Lockdowns and other Covid-19 restrictions have caused almost 150,000 court appearances to be delayed during the pandemic, often forcing victims to put their lives on hold while they await justice. A Wellington court room. Photo: RNZ / Diego Opatowski Court officials now face a daunting task to clear the backlog, and said they have adapted to allow more hearings to go ahead as the pandemic grinds on. That's little comfort to Auckland woman Rosie Veldkamp. The man who raped her was supposed to be sentenced in September last year. It was rescheduled to October, November, January and March before finally happening in April, after delays mostly caused by Covid-19. "It was super hard," Veldkamp said of the delays, each one falling after she'd told herself her court ordeal was [...]
Russia expels two Finnish embassy staff
A photo of a woman walking past the embassy of Finland in Moscow. Russia on March 29, 2018. (Photo: AFP/Vasily Maximov) MOSCOW— Moscow said on Tuesday (May 17) that two employees of Finland's embassy in Russia will have to leave the country in response to a similar move by Helsinki. The foreign ministry said in a statement that it summoned Finland's ambassador to Moscow and expressed its "strong protest" against the expulsion of two Russian diplomats from neighbouring Finland in April. It also accused Finland of taking a "confrontational course" towards Russia, supplying weapons to Ukraine and "covering up the crimes of Ukrainian nationalists" against civilians. "The Russian side made a decision on the unacceptability of the further stay in the Russian Federation of two staff members of Finland's [...]
Indonesia lifts COVID-19 test requirement for vaccinated inbound travellers
Passengers queue as they arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, Indonesia on Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021. Indonesia plans to lift the COVID-19 testing requirement for travellers arriving from overseas. (AP Photo/Firdia Lisnawati) JAKARTA— Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced on Tuesday (May 17) that the country will no longer require vaccinated travellers from overseas to present a negative COVID-19 test upon entering the country. “Domestic and international travellers who are fully vaccinated no longer need to take PCR (polymerase chain reaction) or antigen swab tests,” he announced on the presidential palace’s YouTube channel. Indonesia lifted the test requirement for fully vaccinated domestic travellers in March but currently still requires those arriving from overseas to take a pre-departure COVID-19 test. Speaking at a separate press conference, spokesman for Indonesia's [...]
Taxpayer money to help corporates cut emissions ‘doesn’t feel right’ – National
Multi-nationals such as Heineken could get a taxpayer handout to help them reduce their emissions, National leader Christopher Luxon says. Christopher Luxon speaking to media at Parliament. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver Support for the "squeezed middle" is what the National Party wants to see in this week's Budget. The National Party has said it will support the first three emission budgets, which set caps for New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions for the next 15 years. But it wants to see some urgent assistance for middle New Zealand too. An early example of this has been its opposition to what it describes as the "corporate welfare" involved in using tax dollars to subsidise businesses as they cut carbon. The government is spending $650 million over four years, as part [...]
9843 new Covid cases on Tuesday, 8 deaths reported
There are 9843 new Covid-19 cases in the community, the Ministry of Health announced on Tuesday. A man receiving a Covid-19 test. (Source: istock.com) The numbers were reported over the past 24 hours. There have been 8 more deaths of people with Covid-19, bringing New Zealand’s Covid death toll to 986. Of the 8 deaths, one person was in their 60s, four people were in their 70s, and three were aged over 90. Four were women and four were men. Nationwide, there are 421 people in hospital with Covid-19 and, of those, 10 people are in ICU or in a high dependency unit. That’s 6 more people in hospital with the virus than on Monday, when 415 hospitalisations were reported. Tuesday's positive cases, detected through rapid antigen tests [...]
IMF lifts weighting of dollar, Chinese yuan in SDR basket
FILE PHOTO: Chinese Yuan and U.S. dollar banknotes are seen in this illustration taken February 10, 2020. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo BEIJING— The International Monetary Fund said on Saturday it has increased the weighting of the dollar and Chinese yuan in its review of the currencies that make up the valuation of its Special Drawing Rights (SDR), an international reserve asset. The review is the first since the yuan, also known as the renminbi, joined the basket of currencies in 2016 in what was a milestone in Beijing's efforts to internationalise its currency. The IMF raised the U.S. currency's weighting to 43.38 per cent from 41.73 per cent and the yuan to 12.28 per cent from 10.92 per cent. The euro's weighting declined to 29.31 per cent from 30.93 per [...]
Covid-19 update: 15 more deaths, 5745 new community cases reported in NZ
Fifteen more deaths of people with Covid-19 have been reported today, with another 5745 new community cases also recorded. Photo: FRANK HOERMANN / SVEN SIMON The seven day rolling average of new cases is 7608 today, up from 7510 last Sunday. The Ministry of Health said there were 384 people with Covid-19 in hospital, down from 398 yesterday, with eight in ICU. Two of the 15 people whose deaths were reported today were in their 50s, one in their 70s, nine in their 80s and three were aged over 90. Seven were women and eight were men. Three people were from the Auckland region; two were from Waikato, one was from Taranaki, two were from the Wellington region, four were from Canterbury and three from Southern. The number of [...]
G7 to continue economic pressure on Russia, tackle ‘wheat war’
The Group of Seven foreign ministers vowed on Saturday to reinforce Russia's economic and political isolation, continue supplying weapons to Ukraine and tackle what Germany's foreign minister described as a "wheat war" being waged by Moscow. Russian soldiers guard the Azovstal plant in Mariupol in Ukraine. Photo: AFP After meeting in the Baltic Sea resort of Weissenhaus, senior diplomats from Britain, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, the United States and the European Union also pledged to continue their military and defence assistance for "as long as necessary". They would also tackle what they called Russian misinformation aimed at blaming the West for food supply issues around the world due to economic sanctions on Moscow and urged China not to assist Moscow or justify Russia's war, according to [...]
Harris tells ASEAN leaders US committed ‘for generations’
US Vice President Kamala Harris (center) welcomes Southeast Asian leaders to a lunch at the State Department (Photo: AFP/OLIVIER DOULIERY) WASHINGTON— Vice President Kamala Harris said Friday (May 13) that the United States was committed to Southeast Asia for the long haul as the region's leaders held a first summit in Washington. "Our administration recognises the vital strategic importance of your region, a role that will only grow with time," Harris told leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations over a working lunch at the State Department. "As an Indo-Pacific nation, the United States will be present and continue to be engaged in Southeast Asia for generations to come," she said. President Joe Biden will address the leaders later Friday after inviting them Thursday night to the White [...]
Australia Elections: How is the Australian government elected?
The Australian Parliament is made up of two houses - the House of Representatives and the Senate. In order to win government in its own right, a party needs to hold the majority of seats in the House of Reps, which is the lower house. There are 151 elected members, one representing each of Australia's electorates. So the magic number is 76. You need to get to the magical number of 76 in the House of Representatives to get across the finishing line. (Nine/Tara Blancato) The Australian Federal Election process A federal election is held about every three years. This year, the federal election will take place on May 21. It's compulsory for Australians aged 18 and over to vote and you need to be enrolled to do so. [...]
China responds to claim they sent a spy ship to Australia
A Chinese Foreign Ministry has responded to the Australian defence minister's claim a Chinese surveillance ship has been travelling along the Western Australia coast on an intelligence-gathering mission, saying Beijing "always abides by international law". Photo: 123RF Australian Minister for Defence Peter Dutton said the ship had been tracked along the coastline for the past week and was sighted on Friday morning heading north, about 250 nautical miles from Broome in Western Australia. Asked about the ship, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said he had no information about the specific situation, but "China always abides by international law and international practice". "The relevant Australian politician should see the relevant situation objectively and calmly, and not make sensational remarks," Zhao told reporters at a daily briefing. Dutton had said [...]
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern tests positive for Covid-19
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has confirmed that she has tested positive for Covid-19. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver Her daughter Neve tested positive on Wednesday, she added in the post. Her partner Clarke Gayford tested positive on Sunday. "Despite best efforts, unfortunately I've joined the rest of my family and tested positive for Covid-19," Ardern wrote on social media. Ardern has been symptomatic since Friday night, according to a statement, and has "moderate" symptoms. She returned a weak positive Friday night and a clear positive this morning on a RAT test. Ardern will be required to isolate until the morning of Saturday 21 May. Ardern, who has been isolating since Gayford tested positive, will now have to miss the Budget announcement on Thursday and the release of the government's [...]
Biden, Xi congratulate Marcos, hopeful for stronger ties
Metro Manila, Philippines— The leaders of two powerhouse nations have recognized the electoral victory of the Philippines’ presidential race apparent winner Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. ahead of official proclamation. United States President Joe Biden personally called Marcos on Thursday to congratulate him on his election, the White House said. Biden is also anticipating improved ties and cooperation on different issues, including human rights, it added. "President Biden underscored that he looks forward to working with the President-elect to continue strengthening the U.S.-Philippine Alliance, while expanding bilateral cooperation on a wide range of issues, including the fight against COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, promoting broad-based economic growth, and respect for human rights," the White House statement read. Marcos, for his part, invited Biden to his inauguration. “I have also invited [...]
Updated vaccine pass to be rolled out – Hipkins
An optional updated vaccine pass will include booster information, and will be available to people who have had Covid-19 in the past three months. Photo: 2021 Getty Images Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins announced the move this morning, saying the updated passes would be available to download in under two weeks' time - from 24 May. People who had reported a positive rapid antigen test in the past three months would also be able to request a pass from 31 May. Hipkins said while the passes were no longer legal requirements for access, some businesses could choose to continue using it as a condition of entry, and encouraged people to get their up-to-date passes as a record of their vaccination status. "We've learnt over the last couple of years [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 29 deaths, 7441 new cases in New Zealand
There have been 7441 new community cases of Covid-19 and another 29 further deaths reported today, including five people aged under 40. Photo: AFP There are 398 people in hospital, with six in ICU. The seven-day rolling average of community case numbers is 7548, almost unchanged from last Friday's 7555. The 29 deaths of people with Covid-19 reported today include 14 people who have died in the past two days, with the rest dying between 24 March and 7 May. Two people were in their 20s, three in their thirties, three in their fifties, four in their sixties, six in their seventies, three in their eighties and eight over the age of 90. Fourteen were women and 15 were men. Six were from Auckland; one from Waikato, one [...]
Major reforms to NZ immigration settings announced
The Government has announced major reforms to New Zealand immigration settings to "increase the available pool of labour, while also speeding up our tourism recovery", Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced on Wednesday. A work visa application form - stock image. (Source: istock.com) She says a streamlined Accredited Employer Work Visa system will be running from July 4, so employers will not need to provide as much information, with changes to speed up the process. On top of those changes, a medium wage threshold will be brought in for most Accredited Employer Work Visas and for Foreign Fishing Crew Visas at $27.76. There will be exemptions for sectors including tourism and hospitality, with a threshold of $25 per hour until April next year. Construction and infrastructure; meat processing; seafood; and [...]
China’s zero-Covid policy is not sustainable, WHO director general says
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus calls for shift in approach as scores of Chinese cities remain in strictly enforced lockdown A medical worker collects a Covid swab sample from a Beijing resident on Tuesday. Photograph: VCG/Getty Images The head of the World Health Organization has voiced concerns over China’s effort to eliminate the Covid virus, in a rare rebuke to Xi Jinping’s pledge to achieve “dynamic zero-Covid”. The WHO’s director general, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, told a media briefing on Tuesday that his organisation does not think China’s Covid policy is “sustainable considering the behaviour of the virus”. “We have discussed about this issue with Chinese experts and we indicated that the approach will not be sustainable … I think a shift would be very important,” he said. Mike Ryan, [...]
New Zealand border reopening fully from end of July
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has confirmed the border will fully reopen from the end of July, including for cruise ships and international students. Jacinda Ardern Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver It comes with a range of other immigration announcements, including sector-specific agreements to support a shift away from low-skilled migrant labour, and a new 'Green list' of 85 hard-to-fill high-skill roles that provides a priority pathway to residency. Visas for some 20,000 migrants already in the country are also being extended, and there will be new restrictions on students being able to work. Ardern, who is isolating with her partner at home, has announced the move virtually at a Business NZ lunch in Auckland this afternoon, with Minister of Immigration Kris Faafoi and Minister of Education Chris Hipkins at [...]
Luxon on National-ACT alliance, budget, abortion
National Party leader Christopher Luxon won't be drawn on how he might work with the ACT party and its leader David Seymour if his party wins next year's election. National leader Christopher Luxon, left, and ACT leader David Seymour. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone Luxon confirmed yesterday his deputy, Nicola Willis, will be finance minister if his party wins the election, and ruled out Seymour taking the role. But Seymour said yesterday that was a premature move. "It's a promise that he can't actually keep because he doesn't even know what the election results are," he said. Speaking to Morning Report, Luxon said it was "very premature" to talk about partnership arrangements, and he would not play the "rule in, rule out game" regarding Seymour as finance minister. "All [...]
Sri Lanka’s PM resigns after weeks of protests over economic crisis
Police are imposing nationwide curfew following violence at protest site in Colombo Demonstrators and government supporters clash outside in Colombo on Monday. Photograph: Ishara S Kodikara/AFP/Getty Images Sri Lanka’s prime minister, Mahinda Rajapaksa, has resigned after months of protests over the country’s deepening economic crisis, as once-peaceful protests turned violent and at least five people were killed in clashes. Turmoil began to engulf the country on Monday following violence at a major protest site in Colombo, where pro-government supporters attacked demonstrators and police responded with teargas and water cannon. Anti-government protestors, who had been largely peaceful, began retaliating across the country. Houses and vehicles of several pro-Rajapaksa politicians and the residence of Mahinda Rajapaksa were set on fire. A nationwide curfew was imposed but five were killed and almost [...]
Philippine Elections: Marcos Jr., Sara Duterte lead partial, unofficial count in Eleksyon 2022
Former Senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte are leading the presidential and vice presidential race, according to the partial and unofficial count of votes from 95.17% of the nationwide election returns as shown in the Comelec Transparency Server. As of 6:02 a.m., Marcos had 30,303,899 votes. The other presidential candidates and the number of their votes are as follows: Vice President Leni Robredo 14,431,591 Senator Manny Pacquiao 3,463,654 Manila Mayor Isko Moreno 1,843,726 Senator Panfilo Lacson 865,831 Faisal Mangondato 233,161 Ernesto Abella 109,136 Leody De Guzman 89,355 Norberto Gonzales 85,782 Jose Montemayor 58,065 Duterte had 30,629,541 votes. The other vice presidential candidates and the number of their votes are as follows: Senator Francis Pangilinan 8,993,072 Senator Vicente Sotto III 8,027,121 Dr. Willie Ong 1,807,130 Buhay party-list [...]
Consumer NZ launches petition to combat high grocery prices
Action against high prices at the checkout is being taken by Consumer NZ. The organisation launched a petition last night with a plan to deliver it to David Clark, Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. The petition will call on the minister to go beyond the Commerce Commission's recommendations in it's report on the grocery sector in order to bring about stronger competition. According to the Commerce Commission report the two big supermarket operators, Foodstuffs and Woolworths, are making over $1 million of excess profit every single day. Both operators refute this point, saying their profits are not excessive and point out that the report also said profit margins were in line with other global retailers. They say the largest component of shelf prices go to suppliers, and that [...]
PM Jacinda Ardern returns negative Covid-19 test result
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has returned a negative rapid antigen Covid-19 test result. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern pictured last month (file photo). Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone Ardern is isolating in Wellington this week after partner Clarke Gayford tested positive at the weekend. Yesterday Ardern told RNZ the family was doing fine. "We're having the same experience that many New Zealanders have had over the course of the past three months ... so juggling a few things, but doing just fine," she said. "He's okay, he's definitely crook, but he's doing okay. So far I'm fine, so we'll see how we go - as long as we stagger it so we can keep parenting we should be okay." A rapid antigen test returned a negative result this morning. [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 12 deaths, 6745 new community cases, 339 people in hospital
There have been 12 further deaths and another 6745 new community cases of Covid-19 reported today. Photo: 123rf.com The seven-day rolling average of community case numbers is 7512 today, up from 7415 last week. In today's statement, the Ministry of Health said there were 339 people with Covid-19 in hospital, down from 363 yesterday, with 15 people in intensive care. There has now been a total of 857 deaths of people with Covid-19 in New Zealand. The 12 reported today include three people were from Auckland; two from Waikato; one from MidCentral; two from the Greater Wellington region; three from Canterbury and one from Southern. One person was in their 40s; one in their 60s; two in their 70s; four in their 80s and four were aged over 90. [...]
Covid-19 led to 15 million deaths globally, not the 5m reported – World Health Organisation
Almost three times as many people have died as a result of Covid-19 as official data shows, according to a new World Health Organisation (WHO) report, the most comprehensive look at the true global toll of the pandemic so far. The Indian government said in a statement that WHO had released the report "without adequately addressing India's concerns" over what it called "questionable" methods. Photo: AFP There were 14.9 million excess deaths associated with Covid-19 by the end of 2021, the UN body said on Thursday. The official count of deaths directly attributable to Covid-19 and reported to WHO in that period, from January 2020 to the end of December 2021, is slightly more than 5.4m. The WHO's excess mortality figures reflect people who died of Covid-19 as [...]
US spies reportedly helped Ukraine sink Russia’s flagship
New reports suggest the US helped Ukraine take down the largest Russian warship to sink in combat since World War Two. US spies helped sink Russia’s flagship by revealing the ship’s radar was down as Ukraine distracted the sailors with a drone, it is reported. Moskva – the largest Russian warship to sink in combat since World War Two – plunged to the bottom of the Black Sea on April 14 after being hit by two Ukrainian Neptune anti-ship missiles, The Sun reports. The Russian ministry of defence said explosions ripped through the ammunition stores on April 13 triggering a major blaze before it sunk the next day. Moskva had played a deadly role in the war by bombarding towns and cities in Ukraine from positions at sea. Russia’s [...]
Eighteen dead after huge blast rocks Havana hotel
At least 18 people have died and more than 60 have been hospitalised after a massive explosion rocked one of Cuba's most exclusive five-star hotels. A rescuer walks past some of the wreckage caused after the explosion at the Saratoga Hotel in Havana. Photo: AFP The blast at the Saratoga Hotel in Old Havana on Friday appears to have been caused by a gas leak, according to local officials. The historic five-storey building was set for a post-pandemic reopening in four days. It now lies in ruins, with much of its outer wall torn off. Search and rescue operations are currently underway to locate people trapped under the debris. The Cuban presidency said the dead included a pregnant woman and a child. The injured are being treated at [...]
NZ Covid-19: ‘We could continue to see 10-15 deaths per day for months’ – Baker
Covid-19 hospitalisations have fallen for two consecutive days and the average number of new cases has been relatively stable for two weeks, but epidemiologist Professor Michael Baker says infection rates around the country will continue to go up and down. Photo: 123RF Professor Baker told RNZ it was unlikely there will ever be a stable rate with a virus of this kind. "Almost one in a thousand people getting this infection are dying from it. So that is obviously going to be really tough. If we level out at maybe 15,000, and that's not counting all of them, then we will continue to see 10-15 deaths per day for months," he said. It all comes down to the different factors driving transmission. Baker expects numbers to continue to creep [...]
Sri Lanka president declares state of emergency amid unrest
A demonstrator helps another as police use tear gas and water cannon to disperse students demanding the resignation of Sri Lanka's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa over the country's crippling economic crisis, near parliament in Colombo on May 6, 2022 (Photo: AFP/ISHARA S. KODIKARA) COLOMBO— Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Friday (May 6) declared a state of emergency for the second time in five weeks, giving security forces sweeping powers as a nationwide strike demanding his resignationbrought the country to standstill. A spokesman for the president said he invoked the tough laws to "ensure public order" after shops closed and public transport was halted Friday by unions blaming him for the unprecedented economic crisis, which has ignited weeks of unrest. Earlier Friday, police used tear gas and water cannon to [...]
Facebook accused of deliberately disrupting Australia emergency services
GETTY IMAGES/ Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg reportedly called the result "the best possible outcome in Australia" Facebook deliberately used an over-zealous blocking system that took down the pages of Australian emergency services last year as a negotiating tactic, whistleblowers claim. The social network moved to block all news outlets in Australia over a row about paying news providers. But fire services and state health services were also blocked, during fire season and Australia's vaccine rollout. Facebook says blocking other pages had been an honest mistake. Former employees, backed by the Whistleblower Aid charity, say the company intentionally "over-blocked" Australian pages at a critical time to gain leverage over the Australian government. "It was clear this was not us complying with the law, but a hit on civic institutions and [...]
China builds permanent COVID-19 testing stations for life after lockdown
People line up to get tested at a mobile nucleic acid testing site, amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Beijing, China May 6, 2022. REUTERS/Carlos Garcia Rawlins SHANGHAI— China is setting up thousands of permanent PCR testing stations, with 9,000 already completed in Shanghai alone, as authorities seek to "normalise" tough pandemic controls even after the current round of lockdowns end. At present, nearly 25 million residents in the eastern financial hub of Shanghai remain under some form of lockdown as the city battles China's biggest-ever coronavirus outbreak. But in a bid to head off future flare-ups, municipal authorities have been setting up a system that will make regular COVID-19 testing a permanent feature of everyday life, with other cities taking similar steps. Of Shanghai's 9,000 testing sites, [...]
#TheFilipinoVotes: Dos and don’ts on Election Day amid COVID-19 pandemic
Metro Manila, Philippines— Around 65.8 million voters, including 6.9 million newly registered ones, are expected to cast their ballots this May 9. CNN Philippines lists what the voting public should keep in mind on Election Day. General reminders Polling precincts will open at 6 a.m. and will accommodate voters until 7 p.m. Should there still be voters in line by 7 p.m., they will all be accommodated as long as their distance from the precinct is within 30 meters. The Commission on Elections says bringing a valid ID is not required but still encouraged, especially to address any possible issues concerning your identity or appearance in the Election Day Computerized Voters’ List (EDCVL). After signing the EDCVL, the voter will receive their ballot which they must inspect for any [...]
New Zealand foreign minister blames ‘relationship failure’ for China-Solomons security deal
Nanaia Mahuta confirms ‘unwelcome and unnecessary’ deal came as a surprise to New Zealand and Australia, saying the Solomons must provide transparency New Zealand foreign affairs minister Nanaia Mahuta has said shock at the China-Solomons security deal shows Australia and New Zealand have suffered a relationship failure with leadership in Honiara. Photograph: Reuters The shock over China’s security deal with Solomon Islands is evidence of “a relationship failure” , New Zealand’s foreign affairs minister has said, confirming that the pact took New Zealand, Australia and other Pacific nations completely by surprise. The deal marks Beijing’s first known bilateral security agreement in the Pacific. The text of the final deal is secret, but a draft leaked on social media in March granted Chinese military and police significant access to the [...]
Warmer winter set to follow wider NZ region’s third-hottest summer
Climate scientist's expanded record reveals how unusually warm NZ's summer was. Unusually balmy sea conditions predicted to delay our winter by a month follow one of the wider New Zealand region's warmest seasons on record, a climate scientist says. Niwa is forecasting another winter of unusually warmer temperatures – they're predicted to be above-average in the north and either near or above average in most of the south – as a lingering La Niña climate system continues to influence our weather. As well, coastal waters were running abnormally hot – sea temperatures ranged as high as 2.7C above average over April – which in turn were driving up the mercury on land. "Relatively speaking, we're surrounded by this boiling pot of water – so it's pretty tough to cool [...]
Sweden says it received US security assurances if it hands in NATO application
Swedish and NATO flags are seen printed on paper this illustration taken on Apr 13, 2022. (Photo :REUTERS/Dado Ruvic) STOCKHOLM— Sweden has received assurances from the United States that it would receive support during the period a potential application to join NATO is processed by the 30 nations in the alliance, Foreign Minister Ann Linde said in Washington on Wednesday (May 4). Sweden and neighbour Finland stayed out of NATO during the Cold War, but Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its invasion of Ukraine have led the countries to rethink their security policies, with NATO membership looking increasingly likely. Both countries are concerned they would be vulnerable during an application process, which could take up to a year to be approved by all NATO's members. "Naturally, I'm [...]
Biden to talk with G7 leaders this week about further sanctions on Russia
US President Joe Biden delivers remarks on economic growth, jobs, and deficit reduction in the Roosevelt Room at the White House in Washington, on May 4, 2022. (Photo: REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein) WASHINGTON— US President Joe Biden on Wednesday said he would speak with other leaders from the Group of Seven (G7) advanced economies this week about potential additional sanctions against Russia over its continuing and intensifying war in Ukraine. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the United States was in constant discussions with its partners about further sanctions and could take "additional actions" to pressure Moscow. At a Wall Street Journal conference, Yellen would not preview any specific actions under consideration, but stressed that further measures were likely "if Russia continues this war against Ukraine". Biden told reporters, "We're always open to [...]
US makes biggest interest rate rise in 22 years
The US central bank has announced its biggest interest rate increase in more than two decades as it toughens its fight against fast rising prices. The US Federal Reserve headquarters in Washington. Photo: AFP The Federal Reserve said it was raising its benchmark interest rate by half a percentage point, following a smaller increase in March. With US inflation at a four-decade high, further hikes are expected. The push marks the latest effort to contain spiking costs being felt by households around the world. India's central bank on Wednesday announced a surprise increase to its benchmark rate, while Australia's central bank recently enacted its first interest rate hike in more than a decade. In the UK, Bank of England was also widely expected to raise rates on Thursday, which [...]
Eurozone growth slips as Russia-Ukraine war pushes up energy costs
France’s economy stalls and Italy’s shrinks but Germany rebounds from contraction France’s economy unexpectedly ground to a halt in the first three months of 2022. Photograph: Mohammed Badra/EPA Warning lights are flashing in the eurozone economy, with first-quarter growth in France stalling and shrinking in Italy, as Russia’s war in Ukrainedrives up energy costs across the continent. Figures from Eurostat, the EU’s statistics body, showed growth in GDP across the single currency area slipped to 0.2% in the first three months of 2022, down from 0.3% in the final quarter of 2021, when Omicron weighed on activity. City economists had forecast a growth rate of 0.3% for the 19 euro area countries, highlighting the economic risks from the war in Ukraine amid soaring wholesale oil and gas prices [...]
Covid-19 update: 9047 new community cases and a further 13 deaths reported in NZ
Thirteen more people have died with Covid-19 and there have been 9047 new community cases reported, the Ministry of Health says. Photo: AFP Today's seven-day rolling average of case numbers is 7705, down from 7935 last week. There are 484 people in hospital with the virus - with 15 in ICU. The 13 deaths reported today included people who had died over the previous nine days, apart from two deaths on 4 April. The Ministry of Health said 723 people with Covid-19 had now died in New Zealand. Two of today's deaths were from the Auckland region, three from Bay of Plenty, two from Waikato, one from Taranaki, one from MidCentral, one from Hawke's Bay, and three from Canterbury. Two were in their 50s, two in their 60s, one [...]
Government announces $1.4b funding to boost Auckland housing growth
The government has revealed plans to spend $1.4 billion into infrastructure in a bid to boost housing stock across five Auckland suburbs. Mt Roskill MP Michael Wood, Auckland mayor Phil Goff and Housing Minister Megan Woods at the announcement of $1.4b in funding to boost Auckland housing. Photo: RNZ / Katie Todd The funding, which comes from the government's $3.8b Housing Acceleration Fund, will focus on infrastructure upgrades including sewage and stormwater systems, roading and flood protection measures to unlock more housing. Minister for Housing Dr Megan Woods said the funding would focus on 400 urban renewal projects in Mt Roskill, Māngere, Tāmaki, Oranga and Northcote. She said the work would allow for the replacement of old Kāinga Ora homes, 2000 additional ones, as well as 10,000 new affordable [...]
White supremacism biggest source of illegal content – DIA report
White identity-motivated extremism continues to be the leading driver of online content investigated and shut down by Internal Affairs (DIA). Internal Affairs Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson DIA today released its first annual report into online violent extremism content, covering 2021. The report is in part a result of the Christchurch Call - efforts by governments to eliminate such content online led by New Zealand and France after the 15 March attacks on Christchurch mosques in 2019 - and aims to produce a yearly snapshot of the volume of content investigated and removed. It shows white identity-motivated extremist ideology accounts for the largest portion of investigated content by far. Nearly three years after the mosque terror attack, the massacre livestream continued to be shared and promoted, particularly by [...]
No more COVID-19 tests for fully vaccinated travellers entering Malaysia, masks optional outdoors from May 1
Malaysia Airlines aircraft are seen at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia on Apr 1, 2022. (Photo: AP/Vincent Thian) KUALA LUMPUR— Malaysia announced that it will broadly lift COVID-19 restrictions beginning May 1, including the removal of a mask mandate while outdoors as well as dropping the need for fully vaccinated travellers to be tested for the coronavirus. Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said that wearing of masks is still required indoors, including in shopping malls and on public transportation. “The wearing of masks outdoors is optional, but is still encouraged,” he said during a press conference on Wednesday (Apr 27). The minister said that people are also encouraged to wear masks outdoors in crowded places such as at Ramadan bazaars, stadiums and night markets. Mr Khairy also announced [...]
Inflation shock, rate rise risk jolt Australia PM’s election campaign
FILE PHOTO: Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaks to the media at Melbourne Commonwealth Parliament Office, in Melbourne, Australia February 11, 2022. Darrian Traynor/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo SYDNEY— Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Thursday (Apr 28) blamed the war in Ukraine and COVID-19 related supply chain disruptions for a record rise in living costs which could jeopardise his chances of winning a national election to be held within weeks. Australian consumer prices surged at the fastest annual pace in two decades last quarter, data out on Wednesday showed, as petrol, home-building and food costs rose, fueling speculation interest rates could rise from record lows as soon as next week. "We are still feeling the effects of the rather extraordinary economic times that we are living in," Morrison said [...]
Kiwis paying more for rent as inflation rise bites
Kiwis are paying more for rent overall, despite a drop in demand, according to Trade Me’s March rental price index. File image. (Source: istock.com) The amount of rent tenants are paying has risen by roughly 7% in the past year to the end of March, and now sits at around $575 a week. Trade Me says the jump is in line with record-high inflation and will be hard for renters. “It’s not an easy time to be a renter as Kiwis are having to fork out significantly more for everyday items across the board, including housing costs,” says Trade Me property sales director, Gavin Lloyd. Not all parts of New Zealand have seen the same rate of rent rise in the past year. The largest growth in median [...]
2 electric ferries coming to Auckland by 2024
In two years' time, Aucklanders could be making their way across the harbour in one of two electric ferries, the Government announced on Tuesday. An artist’s impression of an electric ferry being developed by EV Maritime. (Source: EV Maritime) Energy and Resources Minister Megan Woods said the ferries promised quieter, greener and cleaner trips across the city's major inner and mid-harbour services. The carbon fibre ferries, developed by Auckland-based company EV Maritime, could reach a top speed similar to that of modern diesel ferries at 25 knots. It has a range of 40 kilometres and can carry 200 people each. "Today’s ferries contribute about 20% of Auckland’s public transport emissions," Woods said. "These electric ferries promise to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with each electric ferry displacing approximately 1000 [...]
Philippine Elections: Comelec said NZ ballot ‘deliberately edited’
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines — The Commission on Elections said a photo of a ballot in New Zealand received by a voter was tampered to make it appear as though Vice President Leni Robredo's name was not included in the list of candidates running for president. "The Office for Overseas Voting (OFOV) confirms that the photo showing an official ballot received by an overseas voter in New Zealand has been deliberately edited to make it appear that VP Robredo's name is missing from the list of presidential candiates," Comelec said in a statemnent Monday, The photo of the alleged ballot made it to social media over the weekend, and Comelec Commissioner George Garcia said it was likely "fake news." In Monday's statement, Comelec said the OFOV was working with [...]
Twitter board agrees to $44b takeover by Elon Musk
The board of Twitter has agreed to a US$44 billion takeover offer from billionaire Elon Musk. Musk has suggested a series of changes to Twitter from relaxing its content restrictions to eradicating fake accounts. Photo: AFP Musk, who made the shock bid less than two weeks ago, has claimed he is the right person to "unlock" the social media firm's "extraordinary potential". He also called for a series of changes from relaxing its content restrictions to eradicating fake accounts. The firm initially rebuffed Musk's bid, but it will now ask shareholders to vote to approve the deal. Musk is the world's richest man, according to Forbes magazine, with an estimated net worth of US$273.6b mostly due to his shareholding in electric vehicle maker Tesla which he runs. He [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 6380 community cases, 508 hospitalisations, four more deaths
Four more people have died with Covid-19 and there are 6380 new community cases in the country today, the Ministry of Health says. Photo: 123rf.com Meanwhile, there are 508 people in hospital and 16 of those are in ICU. The average age of those hospitalised is 61. In a statement, the ministry said "Today we are sadly reporting the deaths of four people with Covid-19. The deaths being reported today include people who have died over the previous two days. "These deaths take the total number of publicly reported deaths with Covid-19 to 687 and the seven-day rolling average of reported deaths is 12. Of the people whose deaths we are reporting today, two people were from Taranaki and two were from Canterbury. Two were in their 70s and [...]
Philippine Elections: Comelec sets protocols for repair, replacement of defective VCMs, SD cards
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has established technical hubs for replacing Secure Digital (SD) cards and vote counting machines (VCMs) that could encounter problems come May 9. In a resolution promulgated Apr. 20 but only released Friday, Comelec said there will be 82 hubs for the replacement of defective SD cards and eight sites for VCMs nationwide. Each technical hub will be directly supervised and controlled by the concerned regional election director, provincial election supervisor, or election officer depending on where it's situated. The designated poll official must keep an inventory of and safekeep defective cards, while the concerned Comelec field officer must account for the tally of defective machines. Personnel in charge of replacing SD cards with issues will solely come from the Department [...]
5662 new Covid-19 cases on Sunday, 9 deaths
There are 5662 new Covid-19 community cases in New Zealand on Sunday, the Ministry of Health reports. A person getting tested for Covid-19. (Source: istock.com) Nine deaths of people with the virus were also announced, with the deaths stretching back over the past nine days. The deaths take the total number of publicly-reported deaths of people with Covid-19 to 674. The seven-day rolling average of these deaths is 13 - a drop of one from last Sunday's figure. Of the nine people, five people were over 90 years old. There was one each in their 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s. "Delays to reporting can be associated with people dying with Covid-19, rather than from Covid-19, and Covid being discovered only after they have died," the ministry said. Across [...]
An exclusive look at NZ’s largest dam to be built in decades
The Waimea Dam at the top of the south is the largest public dam to be built in New Zealand in more than 20 years. While it's due to start filling with water later this year, it's behind schedule and way over budget. The dam is due to be filled with water later this year, but it's behind schedule and over budget. (Source: Q and A) 1News took a tour of the dam that hopes to eventually provide water security for the Tasman region for the next 100 years. It's about 75% complete with the large 50-metre high concrete face mostly in place. Over the next few months, the spillway and parapet will be the focus. Waimea Water is responsible for the project. CEO Mike Scott says it's [...]
Afghanistan: Taliban orders TikTok, PUBG ban for ‘misleading’ youths
GETTY IMAGES TikTok has been popular with young Afghan men who enjoy filming and sharing short video clips The Taliban has ordered a ban on video-sharing app TikTok and online multi-player game PUBG, insisting they were leading Afghan youths "astray". The militant group said it would also ban TV channels from airing what it deemed as "immoral material". It comes after recent bans on music, movies and television soap operas. The Taliban promised a softer approach to government when it took power last year, but has increasingly curtailed freedoms especially for women. The group was known for their severe version of Islamist rule that characterised their first stint in government between 1996 and 2001. Taliban spokesman Inamullah Samangani said that the latest ban was necessary to "prevent the [...]
Tourist boat missing off Japanese coast
EPA/ The Kazu 1 sightseeing vessel has capacity for 65 people (undated file image) A tourist boat is missing off the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido, the country's coast guard says. Authorities lost contact with the vessel, which had 26 people on board, after it sent a distress signal saying it was taking on water at 13:15 local time (04:15 GMT) on Saturday. Four people have since been found and have been taken for medical attention. The boat, Kazu 1, is believed to have been on a three-hour sightseeing voyage around the Shiretoko Peninsula. The area is a designated UNESCO world heritage site, and boat trips are popular with tourists hoping to spot whales and sea lions as well as brown bears on the rocky beaches. The coast guard says [...]
Macron or Le Pen: France faces stark choice for president
The French vote today in an election that will decide whether pro-European Union centrist president Emmanuel Macron keeps his job or is unseated by far-right eurosceptic Marine Le Pen in what would amount to a political earthquake. A pedestrian walks past campaign poster of French President Emmanuel Macron and presidential candidate Marine Le Pen of the far-right Rassemblement National party. Photo: AFP Opinion polls in recent days gave Macron a solid and slightly growing lead as analysts said Le Pen - despite her efforts to soften her image and tone down some of her National Rally party's policies - remained unpalatable for many. But a surprise Le Pen victory cannot entirely be ruled out, given the high numbers of voters who were undecided or not sure if they would [...]
Philippine Elections: Sofitel threatens to stop use of debate venue over Comelec sponsor’s ₱14M debt
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 21) — The last stretch of the debates organized by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) may face cancellation if the poll body's sponsor Impact Hub Manila fails to settle its unpaid dues to Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila worth ₱14 million. The debates are set for April 23 and 24. A demand letter dated April 20, which was made available to the media on Thursday, stated that Philippine Plaza Holdings Inc. (PPHI) - the owner of the hotel - has yet to receive complete payment as a venue partner for the Pilipinas Debate 2022. Impact Hub Manila, the group behind Vote Pilipinas, is Comelec's partner and sponsor for the debates. Under the deal between the two parties, Impact Hub Manila committed to pay PPHI a total [...]
Computer Recycling unveils new machine to deal with NZ’s huge e-waste problem
A new state-of-the-art machine that sorts and shreds electronic waste has officially started operation in Auckland. The BLUBOX machine is aiming to catapult New Zealand from one of the worst electronic waste offenders to one of the best. The recycling machine is one of eight in the world and was switched on for the first time at Computer Recycling in Penrose on Thursday afternoon. The technology shreds and sorts e-waste in an enclosed negative pressure system, recovering up to 90 percent of components. E-waste items considered hard to recycle include mobile phones, light bulbs, flat screen TVs and more. Environment Minister David Parker was present at the launch of the new machine, which was supported by a $1.5 million grant from the Waste Minimisation Fund. Parker said the technology [...]
New Zealand and Japan prime ministers meet, agree to boost security ties
New Zealand is beefing up its security ties with Japan in the face of "unprecedented challenges" through a plan to share more classified information on international issues. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida had their first ever meeting in Tokyo last night. Photo: Supplied by official photographer Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern sat down with her Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida late on Thursday in Tokyo, in their first conversation since Kishida's election last year. The two leaders agreed to have their officials drum up a deal which would see more "seamless" sharing of classified material. The type of information which would be exchanged is unclear, but a spokesperson for the prime minister said it would not be intelligence. Speaking at the conclusion of the meeting, [...]
One in five older children in Philippines suffer online sexual abuse, study says
Research into 12- to 17-year-olds adds to concerns that Covid has left them more vulnerable in their country If the findings are scaled to the population, it could mean 2 million children were subjected to online sexual abuse in one year. Photograph: Dominic Lipinski/PA One in five children aged between 12 and 17 were subjected to grave instances of online sexual abuse while using the internet in the Philippines in 2020, research suggests. The study adds to concerns that the pandemic has heightened the vulnerability of children in the country, which was already considered a global centre of such abuse. Researchers who surveyed 950 children found a fifth of those who used the internet had experienced online sexual abuse over the past year, such as being blackmailed or coerced [...]
Joe Biden announces $800m in new arms supplies to Ukraine
Joe Biden has announced $800m (£613m) in new arms supplies to Ukraineand said he will go to Congress to ask for more funding to help fend off the renewed Russian offensive in the east and south. Howitzers, artillery and drones among new deliveries, and president to ask Congress for more funding A Ukrainian service member walks along a trench with a Javelin missile system in the north Kyiv region in mid-March. Photograph: Gleb Garanich/Reuters The new US weapon deliveries will include 72 howitzers and their towing vehicles along with 144,000 artillery rounds and more than 120 drones tailored for Ukraine’s needs. “We’re in a critical window of time when [the Russians] are going to set the stage for the next phase of this war,” Biden said. “And the United [...]
Saline solution: Japan invents ‘electric’ chopsticks that make food seem more salty
Device uses a weak current to artificially amplify the taste of salt, as part of efforts to reduce sodium levels in popular dishes The chopsticks can enhance food taste using an electrical stimulation waveform developed by Kirin and Meiji University's School of Science and Technology Photograph: Issei Kato/Reuters Diners in Japan could soon be able to savour the umami of a bowl of ramen or miso soup without having to worry about their salt intake. In what they claim is a world first, researchers have developed chopsticks that artificially create the taste of salt, as part of efforts to reduce sodium levels in some of the country’s most popular dishes. The chopsticks work by using electrical stimulation and a mini-computer worn on the eater’s wristband. The device transmits sodium [...]
Joint NZ-US solar power company launches
A new solar power company has emerged from the shadows with the backing of a senior Google executive. Helios Energy says it has put together a list of grid-connected solar power sites across the country, which would generate a total of one gigawatt of power. Photo: 123RF Renewable energy developers from the United States and New Zealand have formed a joint venture called Helios Energy, to build grid-scale solar developments with an estimated cost of more than $1 billion. The company has put together a list of grid-connected solar power sites across the country over the past two years, which would generate a total of one gigawatt of power, enough for about 250,000 households. Google executive Urs Hölzle is investing in a private capacity, with the size of the [...]
NZ targets Russian banks in latest sanctions over Ukraine war
Russia's largest banks and financial institutions have been targeted in New Zealand's latest round of sanctions against the country. Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta says the targeted institutions made up 80 percent of Russia's banking assets. Photo: Pool / NZME The sanctions apply to 18 entities, including its central bank, sovereign wealth fund and eight of its largest banks. Seven other banks with links to oligarchs, Russia's defence sector and annexation of Crimea are also targeted. Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta made the announcement on Tuesday evening. She said the targeted institutions made up 80 percent of Russia's banking assets. The sanctions were designed to impose economic and political cost on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. "With this latest round of sanctions, New Zealand is joining countries around [...]
New Zealand and Singapore add climate to partnership priorities
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong have added a focus on climate and sustainability to the enhanced relationship between the two countries. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern meets with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong Photo: Karan Gurnani Speaking after bilateral talks in Singapore, the pair jointly announced a fifth pillar would be added to the agreement on the New Zealand-Singapore Enhanced Partnership. They announced the initial enhanced partnership in 2019 during Ardern's last official visit, with the four pillars of trade and economics; security and defence; science, technology and innovation; and people-to-people links. The fifth pillar added today will be "climate change and the green economy". Ardern said given the existential threat posed by climate change, it was fitting. "When it comes to climate [...]
Russia warns US to stop arming Ukraine or risk ‘unpredictable consequences’
Ukrainian soldiers tow a damaged Russian tank from a field near the village of Lypivka, west of Kyiv, on April 15, 2022. PHOTO: NYTIMES WASHINGTON- Russia has sent a series of warnings to the Biden administration, including a formal diplomatic protest this week, demanding that it halt shipment of advanced weapons to Ukraine that could strike into Russian territory or risk unspecified "unpredictable consequences." The diplomatic note, called a demarche, was sent through normal channels, two administration officials said. It was not signed by President Vladimir Putin or other senior Russian officials. But it was an indicator, one administration official said, that the weapons sent by the United States so far were having an effect. It also suggested that the Russians were concerned about the new tranche of more [...]
Philippine Elections: Some presidential bets to hold joint presser on Easter Sunday; reason unclear
Metro Manila, Philippines – Some presidential candidates announced they will hold a joint press conference on Easter Sunday, although the reason behind it is unclear. The camps of at least three presidential hopefuls – Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, Senator Ping Lacson, and former Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales – on Saturday sent invites for a press conference set on the following day, 11 a.m., at the Manila Peninsula Hotel. In its advisory, Lacson’s media bureau said a total of five presidential candidates will be attending. Two other presidential bets, Senator Manny Pacquiao and former presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella, were also mentioned in the list of expected attendees. Pacquiao’s camp confirmed he will join. However, it also noted the senator is currently in his hometown General Santos City and that his attendance [...]
5933 Covid-19 community cases, 10 deaths to report on Sunday
There are 5933 Covid-19 community cases and 10 Covid-related deaths to report on Sunday, according to the Ministry of Health. Covid-19 vaccination centre in Auckland. (Source: 1News) There are 537 people in hospital with the virus, including 20 in an intensive care or high dependency unit. The ministry said a statement on Saturday under-reported hospital numbers for the Bay of Plenty due to a data reporting issue which has since been resolved. The figure for the Bay of Plenty was reported as 17. It has since been corrected to 27. Our seven-day rolling average of case numbers has continued to decline, with Sunday's seven-day rolling average at 8,170, down from 10,543 last Sunday. "The number of reported community cases is expected to continue to fluctuate day to day, but [...]
No MOH Covid-19 update on Good Friday, next one on Saturday
The Ministry of Health is taking a break from its daily Covid-19 updates on Good Friday, with new case information expected tomorrow. Ministry of Health building in Wellington (file photo). (Source: 1News) The next update is expected at 1pm on Saturday, when the numbers of new cases, deaths and hospitalisations from the previous 48 hours will be released. Daily updates are expected for the rest of the long weekend. In a statement, a Ministry of Health spokesperson said the approach was similar to that taken for Christmas and New Year's Day. Good Friday is a national public holiday in New Zealand. In their statement on Thursday, health officials had urged travellers to prepare plans in case they had to self-isolate. "You would need to self-isolate and likely remain wherever [...]
Children who received expired Covid-19 vaccine still protected – medical advisor
NEW ZEALAND— A vaccine expert says 56 children who received an expired dose of the Covid-19 vaccine are still likely to have high protection against the virus. Taranaki DHB also said the 36 children who received a dose within 48 hours of its expiry do not need an additional vaccine. Photo: AFP Taranaki District Health Board announced yesterday the expired paediatric doses were administered between 28 March and 6 April. "The administering of an expired vaccine happened following a misinterpretation of the Ministry of Health's extended expiry date on some paediatric vaccines on March 9, which extended the Pfizer Paediatric expiry dates from six to nine months. The extension related to frozen stock, not refrigerated stock, which remained at 10 weeks," the DHB said in a statement. All [...]
Rural pressure in days of drought: Farmers ‘notorious for putting animal welfare in front of their own health’
NEW ZEALAND— Farmer welfare is a serious concern in Southland after the driest start to a year on record, the Southland Rural Support Trust says. Photo: RNZ / Liz Garton Meaningful rain has finally fallen in the south this week, but it has come too late to bring any relief to the feed shortage confronting the region's farmers. Southland farmers say they expect the economic fallout of the drought to linger into next year. Southland Rural Support Trust chair Cathie Cotter said everything had landed on the region's farmers at once with the Omicron wave at its peak in the south. "A whole lot of things have just increased the pressure on our rural sector and we are really concerned about how our farmers will get through," she said. [...]
Philippine Elections: Bongbong Marcos to Comelec: Ensure that votes are counted correctly
Presidential candidate and former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) should make sure that all votes are counted correctly as the overseas absentee voting commenced, presidential candidate and former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said. Marcos made the remark Wednesday night following reported issues regarding overseas absentee voting such as actual votes and results not matching as well as pre-shaded ballots in Singapore and Dubai. “Pinapatingnan namin, nagtatanong kami sa Comelec na sana tiyakin nila na lahat ng boto ay mabibilang ng tama,” Marcos said in an interview on SMNI on the sidelines of his campaign in Quezon City. (We are asking the Comelec to look into it and asking them to ensure that all votes will be counted correctly.) “Hindi ko [...]
Japan, US to hold finance ministers’ meeting next week – Kyodo
TOKYO— Japan and the United States are likely to hold a bilateral finance ministers' meeting next week on the sidelines of the Group of 20 gathering to be held in Washington, Kyodo news agency reported on Friday. Both governments are currently negotiating the exact date for the meeting, which will likely be held around April 21, Kyodo said without citing sources. (Reporting by Leika Kihara; Editing by Shri Navaratnam)
Hong Kong confirms it will ease COVID-19 restrictions from Apr 21
People wearing face masks cross a street, following the COVID-19 outbreak, in Hong Kong, Mar 9, 2022. (File photo: Reuters/Lam Yik) HONG KONG— Hong Kong confirmed on Thursday (Apr 14) it will ease some of the world's most stringent COVID-19 restrictions, allowing beauty parlours, cinemas and gyms to reopen from Apr 21 as infections in the global financial hub hover below 2,000 per day. The Chinese-ruled city has been hit by a fifth wave of coronavirus since early this year that has battered business and led to more than 8,600 deaths, many in the past two months, although cases have dropped in recent days. Coronavirus restrictions have battered businesss and helped fuel a net outflow of around 70,000 people in February and March, up from nearly 17,000 in December, raising [...]
Russian warship Moskva has sunk – defence ministry
MAX DELANY/AFP The Moskva patrolling the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Syria A Russian warship that was damaged by an explosion on Wednesday has sunk, Russia's defence ministry has said. Moskva, the flagship of Russia's Black Sea Fleet, was being towed to port when "stormy seas" caused it to sink, according to a ministry message. The 510-crew missile cruiser was a symbol of Russia's military power, leading its naval assault on Ukraine. Kyiv says its missiles hit the warship. Moscow has not reported any attack. It says the vessel sank after a fire. The blaze caused the explosion of the warship's ammunition, Russia says, adding that the entire crew were later evacuated to nearby Russian vessels in the Black Sea. It provided no further details. After saying initially [...]
NZ Hercules departs on mission to help deliver aid to Ukraine
A Defence Force Hercules aircraft is on its way to Europe to help transport donated military aid to Ukraine. An RNZAF Hercules departs for Europe. (Supplied: RNZAF) The Hercules, which is carrying 9 personnel, left Auckland's Whenuapai airbase on Wednesday morning. It will join a chain of military aircraft from partner nations that will first land in the UK to prepare for its mission carrying equipment to distribution centres in European countries, which is due to begin next week. This distribution is being coordinated by an international coordination centre in Stuttgart, Germany. Forces won’t be entering Ukraine, which was invaded by Russia nearly two months ago. A three-person advance party is currently in the UK, where they are facilitating the arrival of the aircraft and assimilation of personnel into [...]
Covid-19: All of NZ to move to orange setting from 11.59pm tonight
Will New Zealand move out of the red traffic light setting today? Minister Chris Hipkins has more... Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins has confirmed the entire country will drop from red to the orange traffic light setting from 11.59pm tonight, saying the "overall picture is a very positive one." Watch Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins here: Hipkins said the change in alert levels was justified for several reasons, including an ongoing decline in cases. He said it had been three weeks since the most recent simplification to the traffic light system, and despite the "significant relaxation of the settings, we've continued to see positive improvements in the overall trajectory". He said case numbers now sit below 10,000 new cases per day for the first time since 24 February, and [...]
Covid-19 update: Covid-19 update: 9495 new community cases, a further 15 deaths reported
There are 9495 new community cases of Covid-19 along with a further 15 deaths to report. Photo: 123rf.com There are 551 people in hospital with the virus, including 27 in intensive care. Yesterday, the health ministry reported 11,063 community cases of Covid-19 and 16 further deaths.
Brooklyn shooting: over 20 injured, including 10 shot, in subway attack
Biden says ‘We’re not letting up until we find the perpetrator’ as manhunt under way for shooter Members of the New York police department and emergency vehicles crowd the streets in Sunset Park following the shooting. Photograph: Angela Weiss/AFP/Getty Images A gunman wearing a gas mask filled a crowded New York subway car with thick black smoke from a canister and opened fire on morning rush-hour passengers, injuring more than 20, including 10 with gunshot wounds. A manhunt was under way on Tuesday after the shooter, described as a heavy-built Black male about 5ft 5in tall, wearing a green construction-type vest and hooded grey sweatshirt, fled the scene of the shooting. Officers were searching for a U-Haul truck with an Arizona license plate as of Tuesday afternoon, police told [...]
Breaking News: Russian troops arrested NATO Army chief in Ukraine and sent him to Russia
Breaking news: Russian troops arrested NATO Army chief in Ukraine and sent him to Russia.
Heavy rain to hit East Coast as Cyclone Fili approaches
NEW ZEALAND— Heavy rain warnings have been upgraded to red for the Wairoa District and Gisborne, with downpours and gales forecast to lash the eastern North Island as Cyclone Fili closes in. Photo: 123RF MetService has issued severe weather warnings for the Bay of Plenty and Gisborne regions with Cyclone Fili expected to track southeastwards across the east of the North Island on Wednesday, then move away from the country on Thursday. Wairoa District and the Gisborne region were expected to get 200-300mm of rain expected over 24 hours starting around 10pm tonight. Rainfall could reach peak rates of 15-25mm per hour while levels of 35-50mm per hour are possible in some areas tomorrow afternoon. Heavy rain is expected to cause dangerous river conditions while significant flooding and slips [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 11,063 new community cases and 16 further deaths
There are 11,063 new community cases of Covid-19 today and 16 further deaths to report. Photo: RNZ/Marika Khabazi Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield said there are 622 people in hospital with the virus, including 23 in intensive care. New Zealand has recorded its third death considered to be linked to the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine. Yesterday there were 7592 new community cases reported, with further 11 deaths. More than 500 people have died in New Zealand from the coronavirus.
Dozens dead in Philippines landslides, flooding: Authorities
An aerial photo shows highway and houses submerged by flood waters in Abuyog town, Leyte province, southern Philippines, on Apr 11, 2022, following heavy rains brought about by Tropical storm Agaton (Megi). (Bobbie ALOTA / AFP) MANILA— At least 24 people have been killed in landslides and flooding across central and southern Philippines, authorities said on Monday (Apr 11), after a storm dumped heavy rain and disrupted travel ahead of the Easter holidays. More than 13,000 people fled to emergency shelters as tropical storm Megi pounded the disaster-prone region on Sunday, the national disaster agency said, flooding houses, inundating fields, cutting off roads and knocking out power. Megi is the first storm to hit the archipelago this year, which sees around 20 such storms annually. The central province of [...]
Macron and Le Pen restart campaigns with Mélenchon a potential kingmaker
The race to run France began again on Monday morning as first-round winners Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen launched their campaigns to win over losing candidates’ supporters before the second-round vote in less than two weeks. Macron needs to unite a hostile electorate from the political extremes to vote for him on 24 April. With many, particularly on the left, feeling politically orphaned by Sunday’s result, getting them to vote at all will be the first hurdle. The president emerged with a lead of several points after the first-round ballot, scoring 27.6% against Le Pen’s 23.41%, according to the latest almost complete figures from the French interior ministry. However, the results suggested up to a third of voters chose far-right candidates including Éric Zemmour, and they are likely [...]
Sri Lanka nearly out of medicine as doctors warn toll from crisis could surpass Covid
Emergency surgery may soon be impossible, president told, while protests continue amid worsening economic downturn Protesters outside the Sri Lankan president’s office call for his resignation as anger mounts over the country’s deepening economic crisis. Photograph: Tharaka Basnayaka/NurPhoto/Rex/Shutterstock Sri Lanka’s doctors have warned they are almost out of life-saving medicines and say the country’s economic crisis threatened a worse death toll than the coronavirus pandemic. Weeks of power blackouts and severe shortages of food, fuel and pharmaceuticals have brought widespread misery to Sri Lanka, which is suffering its worst downturn since independence in 1948. The Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA) said all hospitals in the country no longer had access to imported medical tools and vital drugs. Several facilities have already suspended routine surgeries since last month because they [...]
Ukraine economy to shrink by almost half this year, World Bank forecasts
Bank says many surrounding countries will suffer severe hardship as result of invasion, with Russia predicted to fall into recession A burnt-out car among destroyed buildings in Kyiv. The country’s GDP is on course to shrink by about 45% in 2022, says the World Bank. Photograph: Alexey Furman/Getty Images Ukraine’s economy is on course to contract by almost half this year as the Russian invasion and the impact of a “deep humanitarian crisis” takes its toll, the World Bank has said. With a blockade of Black Sea ports in the south of Ukraine and the havoc caused to industry in the east, the war-torn country’s GDP is projected to shrink by about 45% in 2022. The Washington-based development organisation said Russia would also fall into recession and many countries [...]
Australia election: PM Scott Morrison calls poll for 21 May
GETTY IMAGES/ Scott Morrison has been Australia's prime minister since 2018 Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has called a federal election for 21 May. Mr Morrison's ruling coalition holds 76 seats in the House of Representatives - the minimum needed to retain power. Polls suggest there will be a change of government, with the opposition Labor Party, led by Anthony Albanese, tipped to take office. However, in the last election, the centre-right Mr Morrison won despite most polls predicting otherwise. Mr Morrison announced the date after talks with the Governor General in the capital, Canberra. "It's a choice between a strong future and an uncertain one. It's a choice between a government you know and a Labor opposition that you don't," the prime minister said on Sunday. But Mr Albanese [...]
NZ Covid 19 Update: 7592 new Covid-19 cases on Monday, 11 deaths reported
There are 7592 new Covid-19 community cases in New Zealand, the Ministry of Health has announced on Monday. Health worker hands out rapid antigen tests at Covid-19 testing centre in Henderson, Auckland (Source: Getty) The numbers were reported over the last 24 hours. There are 640 people in hospital with the virus, including 23 in an intensive care or high dependency unit. This is an increase on Sunday's hospitalisations of 604, with one more person in ICU compared with 24 hours ago. The ministry also announced 11 Covid-related deaths. Ten of them had died over the past three days, while one had died 12 days ago. The deaths were only recently identified to the ministry. The ministry explained delays to reporting can be associated with people dying with, rather [...]
Auckland couple ‘buzzing’ after $8.5M Powerball win
An Auckland couple are buzzing after winning $8.5 million in Saturday’s Lotto Powerball draw. A Lotto Powerball ticket. (Source: 1 News) The husband and wife, who have asked to remain anonymous, said they were lying in bed on Sunday morning when they received an email from Lotto. The husband said: “She [his wife] took one look at the email and immediately started buzzing – she kept saying ‘check it, check it, check it’. “So we jumped out of bed and raced to the living room, grabbed the laptop and pulled up MyLotto. We sat together and watched our ticket get checked – there was one number, then another, then another… and before we knew what was going on, every number on the line was circled. “That’s when I saw [...]
NZ government favours economic sanctions on Russia over expelling ambassador
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says expelling the Russian ambassador remains an option, but it would not have the most impact of the actions New Zealand can take to condemn the Russian invasion. PM Jacinda Ardern speaks to media following Russia's invasion of Ukraine Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver MPs are debating whether they can summons the ambassador Georgii Zuev for questioning, after he has twice rebuffed their requests to discuss the war in Ukraine. Ardern told Morning Report that it is a current discussion by the foreign affairs select committee and it would be "very unusual" for her to interfere in it. "It's actually for the foreign affairs select committee to finish their deliberations on this and this is where I'm a little bit cautious because I'm not meant [...]
Easy Russia sanctions exhausted, US and allies face economic bite
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, next to Australian advisor Mikaela James, US State Department Counselor Derek Chollet and US State Department spokesperson Ned Price in Brussels, Belgium, on Apr 6, 2022. (Photo: Reuters/Evelyn Hockstein) WASHINGTON— As the world's wealthy democratic powers roll out new sanctions against Russia in response to horrifying images of executed Ukrainians in the city of Bucha, it has become clear that the easiest options are now exhausted and stark differences have emerged among allies over next steps. The European Union proposed a first stab at curbing Russia's energy sector in response to its invasion of Ukraine launched in February, banning imports of Russian coal. But EU countries remain divided even over this move, much less restricting imports [...]
Bloomfield ‘felt the pressure along with the rest of us’
Health workers are thanking Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield for his work stopping the ailing health system from collapsing in the pandemic - and for saving lives. Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield. (Source: rnz.co.nz) They say they can relate to him needing a rest. Bloomfield leaves his job in July, stepping down 12 months early after the huge stress of the past two years. There are few public servants who have had the same degree of fame. For two years he has been a regular in the living rooms of the country, particularly in the first lockdown when almost everyone was home tuning in every day to hear news of the Covid-19 threat. Emergency doctor and chairman of the Council of Medical Colleges John Bonning said [...]
Greens call for rent controls, publish open letter to PM
The Green Party has published an open letter to the prime minister, calling for her to immediately freeze rents until rent controls are strengthened. Houses in Mt Albert, Auckland (file picture). (Source: istock.com) The open letter has received more than 2000 signatures as of 11am today, Thursday. Co-leaders James Shaw and Marama Davidson said they wanted to see limits on annual rent increases, linking rents to what previous tenants paid and temporarily freezing rents until annual limits are in place. They said it will "help rebalance the rental market in favour of people". A November 2021 report by the Ministry of Social Development found more than 60 per cent of low-income renters in New Zealand in 2018 were spending more than 40% of their income just covering the rent [...]
ADB: PH economy to grow at 6% this year, 6.3% in 2023 but risks still loom
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippine economy is expected to grow 6% this year and 6.3% in 2023, but not without risks posed by ongoing geopolitical tensions, the Asian Development Bank said in its annual report released Wednesday. "The economic recovery is expected to gain traction this year and next, underpinned by strengthening domestic investment and consumption,” the Asian Development Outlook said, citing factors like the downtrend in COVID-19 cases coupled with most areas easing to the laxer Alert Level 1. While both projections are quicker than the 5.6% expansion logged last year, the estimate for 2022 falls short of the economic team’s 7-9% target band while the one for next year is within the 6-7% range pegged for the period. The relaxation of travel rules for fully vaccinated foreigners will [...]
Australian Election 2022: Phone-in voting to be massively expanded for federal election to cope with Covid surge
Many Australians expected to be in isolation, with AEC staff prevented from accessing hospitals and some aged care facilities Voters in Wentworth during the last Australian federal election. Phone-in voting will be expanded to accommodate people isolating with Covid. Photograph: Bianca de Marchi/AAP Phone-in voting will be expanded to accommodate people isolating with Covid but the Australian Electoral Commission is warning the process “won’t be smooth”, as surging coronavirus case numbers complicate polling plans on the eve of the federal election. Large numbers of Australians are expected to be in isolation come election day, with the pandemic also preventing AEC staff accessing hospitals and some aged care facilities. The AEC says postal votes can be applied for until the Wednesday before polling day. But for those who either contract [...]
New Zealand applies new sanctions against Russia with 35 percent tariff
The price of fertiliser may go up and there could be a shortage of vodka under the government's new sanctions on Russia, says Trade and Export Growth Minister Damien O'Connor. Trade and Export Growth Minister Damien O'Connor said the sanctions were a significant move for New Zealand. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone All Russian imports to New Zealand will be hit with a 35 percent tariff in response to what our government has described as "abhorrent and reprehensible" atrocities committed against Ukrainian citizens. Existing export prohibitions to industrial products closely connected to strategic Russian industries have also been extended. The Trade and Export Growth Minister Damien O'Connor told Morning Report the tariffs were in line with a number of New Zealand's partner countries. "For New Zealand this is a [...]
Australia – New Zealand refugee resettlement deal: What you need to know
Explainer - What is the Australia New Zealand refugee resettlement deal and why has it been agreed after nearly a decade? Photo: RNZ / Leilani Momoisea Australia and New Zealand have announced a landmark refugee resettlement deal that will see 450 refugees from Australia's regional processing program relocated to Aotearoa. Under the agreement, 150 refugees will be allowed to resettle in New Zealand each year for the next three years - these refugees will fall under the government's annual refugee quota. But why has the deal taken almost a decade, what does the deal mean for the future of offshore detention facilities, and how will refugees be supported as they transition into New Zealand society? RNZ is here to clear it all up. How did the deal come to [...]
Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield to step down from role
Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield is stepping down from his role at the end of July. Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone Public Service Commissioner Peter Hughes revealed Dr Bloomfield's decision in a statement this morning. Bloomfield had signalled to the commissioner late last year he intended to step down before his term officially ended on 11 June 2023, Hughes said. He said Bloomfield had done an outstanding job leading the government's health response to Covid-19 and the vaccination rollout. "Dr Bloomfield has worked tirelessly for more than two years to keep New Zealanders safe from coronavirus," Hughes said. "Dr Bloomfield has demonstrated remarkable resilience and courage in leading the health system's overall response to Covid-19. That response has saved lives. "I thank Dr Bloomfield [...]
PH May 2022 Elections: Nine presidential bets tackle political reforms, human rights, renewable energy in second Comelec debate
Metro Manila, Philippines – Nine out of ten presidential candidates discussed political system reforms, human rights and sources of renewable energy during the second presidential debate held by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Sunday. Vice President Leni Robredo and labor leader Leody De Guzman both proposed a law that would prevent turncoatism, or jumping from one political party to another, to strengthen the political system of the country. On the other hand, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno strongly pushed for a shift to a two-party system, while former defense secretary Norberto Gonzales raised again his proposal to move to a parliamentary form of government. The issue of lack of proper representation in the party-list system was also tackled. However, lawyer and doctor Jose Montemayor, Jr. pushed to keep the [...]
Australian News: Poll: Coalition cash splash leaves voters cold as just a quarter say budget will be good for them
Half of voters say budget designed to win election as Labor takes 11-point lead on economic management Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates Download the free Guardian app; get our morning email briefing Josh Frydenberg delivers his post budget National Press Club address. Only 25% of poll respondents say the budget has made them more likely to vote for the Coalition, and a further 19% say it has made them less likely. Photograph: Lukas Coch/AAP Only a quarter of Guardian Essential respondents think the Morrison government’s cash splash budget is good for them personally, and just over half (56%) think the budget’s primary purpose is to help the Coalition win the coming election. The new poll findings come as shadow treasurer, Jim Chalmers, sharpens Labor’s [...]
Australian election 2022 Labor has no plans to increase taxes on Australians if elected, Jim Chalmers says
Shadow treasurer moves to make Labor policy crystal clear after Coalition seizes on ambiguity in Anthony Albanese’s comments Jim Chalmers says Labor will ‘make multinational tax fairer’ and the party has no plans to increase taxes if elected Photograph: Darren England/AAP Labor has no plans to increase taxes on Australians and will look to lift foreign aid if elected in May, the shadow treasurer, Jim Chalmers, has said. The senior frontbencher said on Sunday that federal Labor’s only tax proposal was to crack down on multinational tax avoidance. Chalmers’ clear statement was an attempt to clarify the Labor party’s position after the opposition leader, Anthony Albanese, failed to rule out new taxes last week. Labor is also under pressure from the Coalition to cost its promise to fund pay [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 14,120 community cases, 23 further deaths, 692 people in hospital
There are 14,120 community cases of Covid-19 and 23 further deaths to report today. Rapid antigen test nasal swab Photo: 123rf.com This is a jump in numbers from yesterday, when there were only over 10,000 cases, but a fall in hospitalisations. The Ministry of Health says the jump in numbers is not unexpected as there is usually lower testing and reporting in the weekends. There are now 692 people in hospital, with 30 people in ICU or HDU. Cases in hospital are in Northland: 31; Waitemata: 105; Counties Manukau: 127; Auckland: 101; Waikato: 77; Bay of Plenty: 35; Lakes: 14; Tairāwhiti: 2; Hawke's Bay: 28; Taranaki: 11; Whanganui: 4; MidCentral: 21; Wairarapa: 2; Hutt Valley: 15; Capital and Coast: 15; Nelson Marlborough: 13; Canterbury: 49; South Canterbury: 8; West [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 8810 new community cases, 18 deaths, 690 people in hospital
New community case numbers in New Zealand have dropped below the 10,000 mark for the first time in more than a month, with 8810 new community cases reported today, along with 18 new deaths. Photo: 123rf.com Today was the lowest number of new cases since 24 February, when 6137 cases were reported. While there is generally lower testing and reporting over weekends, today's seven-day rolling average is 13,543, down from 16,325 a week ago. In today's statement, the Ministry of Health said the number of people in hospital with Covid-19 has risen slightly after several days of falls, with 690 hospitalisations reported today, up from 678 yesterday. There are 26 people in intensive care. The 18 new deaths reported today include one person in the 30s. The rest include [...]
Australia-India trade deal to open ‘biggest economic door’: Morrison
FILE PHOTO: Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaks to the media at Melbourne Commonwealth Parliament Office, in Melbourne, Australia February 11, 2022. Darrian Traynor/Pool via REUTERS Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said a trade agreement with India due to be signed on Saturday (Apr 2) represented “one of the biggest economic doors there is to open in the world today”. Morrison is expected to call a general election within days, and has been eager to secure the trade deal before campaigning began, having been in negotiations with India for a decade. The Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement would be signed in a virtual ceremony by Trade Minister Dan Tehan and India's Minister of Commerce & Industry, Piyush Goyal, and both countries would continue to work towards a full [...]
Ukraine says it has regained control of ‘whole Kyiv region’
Ukrainian soldiers stand by a burnt Russian tank on the outskirts of Kyiv, on Mar 31, 2022. (Photo: AFP/RONALDO SCHEMIDT) KYIV— Ukraine has regained control of "the whole Kyiv region" after invading Russian forces retreated from some key towns near the Ukrainian capital, deputy defence minister Ganna Maliar said on Saturday (Apr 2). "Irpin, Bucha, Gostomel and the whole Kyiv region were liberated from the invader," Maliar said on Facebook, referring to towns that have been heavily destroyed by fighting. All three towns lie northwest of Kyiv and have suffered heavy destruction since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb 24. Irpin and Bucha, commuters towns outside Kyiv, were retaken by the Ukrainian army this week. Both have seen large civilian death tolls. AFP saw at least 20 bodies on a [...]
Russia to halt cooperation over International Space Station
Director of space agency Roscosmos says partnership will be restored only when ‘illegal sanctions’ are removed Cosmonauts Sergey Korsakov, Oleg Artemyev and Denis Matveyev on the ISS on 18 March wearing the colours of the Ukrainian flag. Photograph: AP Russia says it will end cooperation with western countries over the International Space Station until sanctions are lifted. Russia’s space director said on Saturday that the restoration of normal ties between partners at the ISS and other joint space projects would be possible only once western sanctions against Moscow were lifted. Dmitry Rogozin, the head of Roscosmos, said in a social media post that the aim of the sanctions was to “kill Russian economy and plunge our people into despair and hunger, to get our country on its knees”. He [...]
Three Waters package funds affirmation of local government – LGNZ
Three Waters Reform Package grants are recognition of funding constraints faced by councils, and a vote of confidence in the future of local government, Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) says. Photo: 123RF Councils have been invited to submit projects for their share of $500m. A further $1.5b will become available in mid-2024. LGNZ president Stuart Crosbie said the money can be used for a broad range of projects and initiatives to benefit the community - from parks and gardens to swimming pools, libraries or community centres. "Anything from community facilities through to what they might see as essential infrastructure that they may have had to put off due to financial constraints, so a very broad range." Councils have until the end of September to apply.
$10m wildlife centre to be haven for native birds
A Taranaki environmental group is hoping visitors will flock to a multimillion dollar wildlife centre to be established in Inglewood. The North Island brown kiwi Photo: DOC / Rod Morris The East Taranaki Environment Collective has been trapping 13,000 hectares of bush at Purangi, East Taranaki since the early 2000s. It's since become a stronghold for North Island western brown kiwi and other native species. Collective chair Chris French said it was now time to share its work. "We really want to enhance the awareness amongst the public ... of what happens in the conservation space in East Taranaki because it's not a particularly accessible part of the country. "So we really want to bring the conservation effort, the magnificent conservation effort, that's going on among iwi and [...]
Hundreds of travellers cross checkpoints as Singapore-Malaysia land border fully reopens
Cars and motorbikes make their way towards Woodlands Checkpoint on Apr 1, 2022 as the Singapore-Malaysia land border reopens. (Photo: CNA/Vanessa Lim) SINGAPORE— Hundreds of travellers crossed the checkpoints at Woodlands and the Second Link as Singapore and Malaysia fully reopened their land borders on Friday (Apr 1). It is the first time in about two years that people can travel freely between both countries by private transport without the need for testing or isolation. Travellers have to be fully vaccinated, and children aged 12 and below who are not fully vaccinated have to be accompanied by an adult who is vaccinated. Queues formed at Woodlands Checkpoint more than an hour before the border was fully reopened. People queuing outside the Woodlands Checkpoint at about 10.40pm on Mar 31, 2022. (Photo: Vanessa Lim) [...]
Australia to send armoured vehicles to Ukraine
Australia will send some of its Bushmaster armoured vehicles to Ukraine following a request from the war-torn nation’s president Volodymyr Zelensky in his address to Parliament. Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirmed on Friday morning that some of the Australian-made four-wheel-drive armoured vehicles would be sent over to Ukraine, along with a further $25 million worth of military support announced on Thursday. Scott Morrison has announced Australia will send armoured vehicles to Ukraine after President Volodymyr Zelensky asked for them in his address to Parliament on Thursday.CREDIT:ALEX ELLINGHAUSEN “We are not just sending our prayers, we are sending our guns, ammunitions, humanitarian aid, all of this, our body armour, all of these things,” he said. “We will send our armoured vehicles, our Bushmasters, as well, and we will fly them [...]
PH Govt preparing to auction Marcos properties due to tax deficiencies – DOF
Metro Manila– The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is consolidating the titles of the Marcoses' properties in favor of the government so they can be sold at a public auction and the proceeds used to settle the family's tax deficiencies, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said on Thursday. Dominguez III said the BIR, an agency under the Department of Finance, is collecting payment and demanding that the Marcos family settle their tax liabilities. “BIR will continue to consolidate the titles in favor of the government on those properties which have been levied upon. The procedure may take time as it involves selling at public auction to convert to cash,” Dominguez told reporters. Government rules provide that an individual's properties can be auctioned off to settle tax deficiencies. “They have [...]
Extra 600,000 flu vaccines available for Kiwis this year
Two million free flu vaccines will be available for Kiwis as the vaccination campaign gets underway on Friday, Health Minister Andrew Little has announced. The Government will this year be making 2 million flu vaccines available - up from an average of 1.4 million - while also widening eligibility for Kiwis who can receive the vaccine for free. The shot will be available not only for at-risk New Zealanders and those aged 65 and over, but also Māori and Pasifika aged 55 and over. The $12 million expansion programme is being funded from the Government’s Covid-19 Response and Recovery Fund. “With the Omicron wave still working its way through the country, we need to protect our most vulnerable from getting the flu as well, and our health system from [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 17 new deaths, 13,475 new community cases, 764 people in hospital
The number of people in hospital with Covid-19 continues to fall, but there have still been 13,475 new cases in the community and 17 more deaths reported in New Zealand today. Photo: AFP / Science Photo Library There are now 764 people in hospital, down from 830 yesterday, with 31 people in intensive care. Yesterday, there were 15,250 cases reported, and 22 deaths. The seven-day rolling average of case numbers has also continued to decline, with today's rolling average at 14,171 cases, compared to last week's 17,197 cases. The 17 new deaths of people with Covid-19 include two in their 50s, four in their 60s, five people in their 70s, three in their 80s and three over 90. Fifteen were male and two were female. Seven were from the [...]
Japan, Philippines eye 1st 2-plus-2 meeting
Flags of Japan (L) and Philippines | INQUIRER.net stock photos TOKYO — Japan and the Philippines are planning to hold a 2-plus-2 meeting for the first time in Tokyo in early April, it has been learned. Foreign affairs and defense chiefs from the two countries are expected to agree to strengthen cooperation in maritime security in light of China’s increased nautical activities. They will also likely confirm a policy of zero tolerance for unilateral attempts to change the status quo in the East and South China Seas by force, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and President Rodrigo Duterte agreed to hold 2-plus-2 talks when they spoke via telephone last November. If it comes to fruition, the Philippines will be the second member of the [...]
China, Russia ‘more determined’ to boost ties, Beijing says
Flags of China and Russia are displayed in this illustration picture taken March 24, 2022. REUTERS/Florence Lo/Illustration BEIJING— Moscow and Beijing are "more determined" to develop bilateral ties and boost cooperation, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Wednesday (Mar 30) following a meeting in eastern China with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, amid the Ukraine crisis. The two also condemned what they called illegal and counterproductive Western sanctions imposed on Moscow over its actions in Ukraine, the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement. Wang and Lavrov spoke in the eastern Chinese province of Anhui, where China is hosting two days of multilateral meetings on Afghanistan. "Both sides are more determined to develop bilateral ties, and are more confident in promoting cooperation in various fields," Wang said. "China [...]
‘Critical’ for US to stay engaged with Asia, PM Lee tells Speaker Pelosi
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s Bipartisan Leadership Meeting with Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi at the US Capitol on Mar 30, 2022. (Photo: CNA/Jeremy Long) WASHINGTON— It is “critical” for the United States to stay involved and engaged in the Asia-Pacific, while developing and growing its economic ties with the region, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Wednesday (Mar 30) as he attended a bipartisan leadership meeting at the Capitol in Washington. Delivering brief remarks at the start of the meeting, Mr Lee, accompanied by US Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, pointed to America’s Indo-Pacific Economic Strategy and in particular, the forthcoming Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. “We hope to see this bear fruit in years to come,” said the Prime Minister, who is on a working visit [...]
Solomons’ leader confirms security pact with China
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Mannaseh Sogavare has confirmed his government has finalised a security treaty with China. Solomon Islands prime minister Manasseh Sogavare (right) with Li Ming, China's first ambassador to the Solomon Islands. Photo: George Herming - Government Communications Unit A draft security cooperation agreement was leaked on Friday and it could allow China to deploy police and military personnel in Solomon Islands. The document lays down a framework which could permit Beijing to deploy forces to protect the safety of Chinese personnel and major projects in Solomon Islands. Speaking to the parliament yesterday, Sogavare was critical of media reporting around the leak. But in responding to a question about how far along negotiations on the treaty were, Sogavare, said the document was already finalised. "Mr Speaker I [...]
Tā Tipene O’Regan named New Zealander of the Year
The recipients of New Zealander of the Year awards for 2022 were announced tonight and among them are an ecologist, a healthy lifestyle champion, an innovator. Tā Tipene O'Regan. Photo: Supplied Here's a list of the winners tonight: 2022 New Zealander of the Year: Tā Tipene O'Regan Tā Tipene O'Regan is known for his work in Ngāi Tahu's Treaty Settlement, as an educator and as a public figure whose life has been dedicated to building an inclusive, bicultural nation. Local Hero of the Year: Dave Letele Dave Letele is the founder of the not-for-profit Brown Buttabean Motivation programme - a free, gym-based weight-loss programme that has inspired thousands of New Zealanders to get fit and get healthy. Environmental Hero of the Year: Charmaine Bailie Described as a force of [...]
Five confirmed dead following helicopter crash north of Melbourne
Five people have been killed after a helicopter crashed into rugged terrain in regional Victoria this morning. Police said a pilot and four passengers were on board the helicopter, all of whom died at the crash scene near Mt Disappointment, an hour north of Melbourne's CBD. Police announced the tragic update just after 7.30pm. Police were winched down to the crash site to access the accident. (Nine) The dense bushland made accessing the crash site difficult. (Nine) They said the crash victims were: - A 32-year-old man from Cheltenham, Victoria - A 50-year-old woman from Inverloch, Victoria - A 73-year-old man from Albert Park, Victoria - A 59-year-old man from New South Wales - A 70-year-old man from New South Wales "It's believed the chartered helicopter had taken off [...]
15,250 new Covid cases on Thursday, 22 deaths reported
There are 15,250 new Covid-19 community cases in New Zealand, the Ministry of Health announced on Thursday. Health workers at a Christchurch Covid-19 testing centre. (Source: Getty) The numbers were reported over the last 24 hours. 22 new Covid-19 related deaths were announced by the ministry on Thursday. This includes deaths in the past month that the Ministry has only just become aware of. Of the deaths announced today, 1 was from Northland; 10 were from the Auckland region; 1 was from Waikato; 2 were from Bay of Plenty; 2 were from the Lakes DHB; 2 were from the Wellington region; and 4 were from Canterbury. Two people were in their 50s, four people were in their 60s, Three people were in their 70s, six in their 80s and [...]
Man sentenced to jail for threatening to kill Jacinda Ardern
A New Zealand man on Thursday was sentenced to one year in prison for threatening to kill Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Jacinda Ardern. (Source: Getty) Prosecutors said Michael Cruickshank, 56, sent 88 lengthy emails to Government officials in 2019 and 2020, calling them criminals, slave-traders and state-sanctioned terrorists. But it was two emails that he sent in January 2020 that crossed a line by threatening violence. In one email, Cruickshank threatened to blow Ardern’s head off and in another said he would “personally wipe you off this f------ planet,” The New Zealand Herald reported. He copied one of the emails to lawmaker Andrew Little, who is now the health minister. “You have kids who want to see you grow old, as do I,” Cruickshank wrote. “I suggest you place [...]
Shanghai rules out full lockdown despite sharp rise in Covid cases
Concern about economy leads city to try targeted approach with rolling restrictions of individual neighbourhoods A worker calls through a megaphone for residents to go for testing inside the barriers of an area in Shanghai under lockdown. Photograph: Aly Song/Reuters Shanghai has recorded a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases, but officials have ruled out a full lockdown over the damage it would do to the economy. Millions of Chinese in affected areas have been subjected to city-wide lockdowns by an Omicron-led outbreak that has sent daily case counts creeping ever-higher, though they remain insignificant compared with other countries. Shanghai, however, has aimed to ease disruption with a more targeted approach marked by rolling 48-hour lockdowns of individual neighbourhoods and large-scale testing while largely keeping the metropolis of 25 million [...]
Psychologists struggling as NZ’s mental health crisis worsens
A grim picture is emerging of New Zealanders' mental health, two years on from the country's first lockdown. Clinical psychologist Dr Victoria Thompson told 1News demand for mental health help is sky-high, saying, "people are wanting more help than ever". "We are doing our best but we can't keep up with demand and without extra help and resources to clear the public sector, it's going to be a long time." "Then you're holding more severe mental health which means you're going to be working with that person much longer than you might've been if you caught them at mild to moderate." Over the past 18 months, life insurer AIA's seen Covid-19 linked to around 70% of income protection claims for mental health, with claimants citing decreased income, delayed medical [...]
Cost of living: NZ urged to tackle retail food industry
The Government has been urged to tackle the retail food industry in order to get on top of the cost of living crisis. In February, Stats NZ revealed food prices had risen by 6.8% for the year, the largest annual increase in a decade. NZME head of business Fran O’Sullivan told Q+A that on top of other inflationary impacts like energy costs and supply chain crunches, the supermarket sector is also driving costs up. “I think we need to see more push out of the Commerce Commission to ensure that we do get more competition, particularly at the supermarkets but not just there,” O’Sullivan said. Te Pāti Māori have launched a petition pushing for GST removed from all food. (Source: 1News) “This is a nation full of duopolies, and [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: Four further deaths, 10,239 new community cases, 848 people in hospital
Four further deaths of people with Covid-19 have been reported in New Zealand, with the number of confirmed cases dropping to 10,239 today. Photo: 123rf.com In today's statement, the Ministry of Health said there were 848 people in hospital with the coronavirus, up slightly from 841 yesterday. There are 28 people in intensive care, one more than yesterday. The ministry said while today's hospitalisation numbers are slightly higher, it was encouraging to see the total number of cases in hospital remain considerably lower than the peak of more than 1000 cases in hospital from five days ago. "This reflects the decrease in hospitalisations across Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty, some of the first regions to be affected by Omicron." The four new deaths reported today were two men [...]
Polling reveals Australia’s most and least trusted politicians
Polling suggests government ministers are some of Australia’s least trusted politicians whereas Labor frontbenchers are among the most trusted. Of sitting members, Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Defence Minister Peter Dutton, and Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce are the least trusted politicians, according to polling from Roy Morgan. On the other side of the scale, Labor’s leader in the Senate Penny Wong, Opposition leader Anthony Albanese, and Shadow Education Minister Tanya Plibersek are the most trusted. Politicians with highest net distrust score. Source: Roy Morgan Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine said this level of distrust in government leaders could spell trouble for the Coalition. “With Peter Dutton the second most distrusted politician in Australia and Josh Frydenberg almost out of the top ten, this may well become crucial if the [...]
COVID-19: New Zealand’s traffic light system rules change overnight
There's been a significant shift in New Zealand's COVID-19 settings overnight, with gathering limits doubled (and in some cases removed altogether) and QR code scanning requirements removed. At 11:59pm on Friday, the Government's recently-announced changes to the traffic light system came into effect. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern earlier this week said this "simplified" framework was aimed at targeting restrictions "at those activities that reduce transmission the most". That means ditching outdoor gathering limits and not requiring masks to be worn at outside events. If by chance there is nice weather this weekend, that means outdoor sporting events and concerts are back on. Indoors there are still restrictions, such as the need to be seated and separated at hospitality venues, but gathering limits have jumped from 100 to 200. That's [...]
May 2022 PH Elections: Comelec sets ‘totality rule’ in vote-buying
The Commission on Elections will use what it calls the “totality rule” in determining if giving away of cash during the campaign period by any candidate or by the candidate’s surrogates is vote-buying, which is punishable under the Omnibus Election Code. Comelec Commissioner George Garcia, speaking to ABS-CBN’s TeleRadyo, said giving ayuda or assistance during the campaign period did not automatically mean that act constituted vote-buying, especially if the poll body issued a certificate of exemption to the candidate to give out such ayuda or relief goods. “However, if it is not related to the regular service of local government, then we can investigate because it is illegal without permission of Comelec,” he said in Filipino. The poll commissioner said that while Comelec could motu proprio investigate alleged vote-buying [...]
Israel blocked Ukraine from buying Pegasus spyware, fearing Russia’s anger
Revelation of denial offers new insight into the way Israel’s relationship with Moscow has undermined Ukrainian objectives Ukrainian officials lobbied for access to the Pegasus spyware tool, say people familiar with the matter. Photograph: Jack Guez/AFP/Getty Images Israel blocked Ukraine from buying NSO Group’s Pegasus spyware for fear that Russian officials would be angered by the sale of the sophisticated hacking tool to a regional foe, according to people familiar with the matter. The revelation, following a joint investigation by the Guardian and Washington Post, offers new insight into the way Israel’s relationship with Russia has at times undermined Ukraine’s offensive capabilities – and contradicted US priorities. The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, has been critical of Israel’s stance since Russia launched its full and bloody invasion of Ukraine on [...]
NATO: 7,000 to 15,000 Russian troops dead in Ukraine
A customer checks his rifle in a gun shop in Lviv, western Ukraine, Wednesday, March 23, 2022. The rush for guns and gun training continued in the western city of Lviv. The state of war has streamlined gun purchasing in Ukraine, now simplified. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue) KYIV, Ukraine — NATO estimated on Wednesday that 7,000 to 15,000 Russian soldiers have been killed in four weeks of war in Ukraine, where fierce resistance from the country’s defenders has denied Moscow the lightning victory it sought. By way of comparison, Russia lost about 15,000 troops over 10 years in Afghanistan. A senior NATO military official said the alliance’s estimate was based on information from Ukrainian authorities, what Russia has released — intentionally or not — and intelligence gathered from open sources. [...]
PH Gov’t adopts 10-point policy agenda to hasten economic recovery
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte talks to the people after holding a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang. ROBINSON NIÑAL/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO MANILA, Philippines — The Duterte government has adopted a 10-point policy agenda to hasten and sustain the country’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order No. 166 on March 21, a copy of which was issued to reporters on Wednesday. “The State hereby adopts the Ten-Point Policy Agenda to sustain and accelerate economic recovery, and to drive broad-based expansions across various productive sectors, in the midst of challenges brought about by the continued persistence of COVID-19,” the order reads. The 10-point policy agenda are the following: Strengthen healthcare capacity [...]
NZ economy in strong position though Omicron, Ukraine add uncertainty – IMF
The International Monetary Fund has given the government an approving nod for its handling of the pandemic and economy, but warned high inflation and housing affordability need to be tackled, and caution taken in reducing support. The IMF logo (file). Omicron and the war in Ukraine could adversely affect economic activity and inflation in New Zealand, the IMF said. Photo: AFP In its annual health check on the country, it said the economy was in a strong position because of "sound management", although the Omicron outbreak and war in Ukraine added new uncertainty. "[They] could adversely affect economic activity and inflation in New Zealand through weaker external demand and higher commodity prices. Extended global supply chain disruptions could impact growth and inflation," the report said. It also noted [...]
Israel: Four killed in shopping centre attack
REUTERS The attack happened outside the BIG shopping centre Four Israelis have been killed and several others wounded in an attack in the south of the country, police say. Three were stabbed to death outside the BIG shopping centre in Beersheba, while a fourth was rammed by a vehicle driven by the assailant, they say. The attacker was shot dead by a bus driver. Israel's internal security agency said the assailant was an Israeli Arab who had once been jailed for supporting the Islamic State (IS) group. The Shin Bet named him as Muhammad Galeb Ahmad Abu Alqian, a high school teacher from the Bedouin town of Hura about 12 miles (19km) east of Beersheba. Alqian had been arrested in 2015 when he planned to leave for Syria to [...]
PH Elections: Comelec vows quick canvassing, no more 7-hour glitch for May 2022 polls
Metro Manila, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said additional preparations for the May 2022 polls should prevent a repeat of the controversial "seven-hour glitch" in the May 2019 polls which left the vote tally for media partners empty on the night hours after polls closed. New Commissioner George Garcia said a separate server has been added to the existing automated elections system (AES) for media to access the running total of votes canvassed by Comelec. "Nangyari 'yung glitch sa tinatawag na transparency server natin. 'Yan talaga ay sinigurado ngayon ng komisyon at ako mismo ay sinigurado ko rin na hindi na mangyayari 'yan [The glitch happened in what we call the transparency server. The commission made sure, and I myself made sure, it won't happen again]," Garcia [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: Total death toll rises above 200, with 20,087 new community cases reported today
New Zealand's total death toll of people with Covid-19 has now grown to more than 200, with 11 new deaths announced today, as well as 20,087 new community cases. Photo: 123rf.com The new deaths bring the official total of people who have died with Covid-19 to 210. The 11 deaths announced today include two from Northland, five from the Auckland region, one from Bay of Plenty and three from the Wellington region. One of these people was in their 30s, one in their 60s, one in their 70s, four were in their 80s and four in their 90s. Six were men and five were women. The seven-day rolling average of deaths is nine. There are also 960 people in hospital with the coronavirus today, down from 1016 yesterday, but [...]
More than half of Pinoy voters support ‘partial continuity’ of Duterte’s policies — survey
(MANILA BULLETIN / FILE PHOTO) PHILIPPINES— Over 50 percent of Filipino voters prefer the new administration to “partially continue,” rather than change or fully continue, President Duterte’s policies, according to a survey conducted by public opinion research firm WR Numero Research (WRN). The results of the survey conducted in 2021 and were released on Tuesday, March 22, showed that 54.59 percent of voters want soft continuity of the President’s policies. The portion of Filipino voters who prefer full continuity stood at 29.57 percent, while those who want change only accounted for 15.84 percent. According to WRN, the survey reflects one of the key criteria on how the voters will decide in the May 9, 2022 elections. Filipinos’ support for the partial continuity of President Duterte’s policies was also clear [...]
PM reveals changes to mandates, vaccines passes and restrictions
The Prime Minister has announced changes to New Zealand's Covid restrictions - lifting all gathering restrictions on outdoor settings, scrapping vaccine passes and removing vaccine mandates for some workforces. Jacinda Ardern. Gathering limit changes will come into effect on March 25 at 11.59pm, which also included raising indoor limits from 100 to 200 under Red. It will also mean all vaccine mandates will be removed for workforces, except for health and disability, aged care, Corrections and border workforces. Ardern made the announcement from Parliament on Wednesday, to lay out the "next set of changes to our Covid settings in New Zealand". "While we have been successful, it has also been bloody hard," Ardern said, looking back at the last two years. "Everyone has been safer, but everyone is also [...]
Air NZ to relaunch direct Auckland-New York flights
Air New Zealand is relaunching its Auckland-New York direct service, which was canned before it even started in 2020 due to the pandemic. (Source: 1News) Originally to begin in October 2020, it will now launch in September this year. The three-times-a-week flight will take between 16 and 18 hours on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. New Zealand is opening its borders to those coming from visa-waiver countries on May 2. “The US has always been a key market for us, and this new route cements our commitment to developing growing tourism opportunities between the two countries," chief executive Greg Foran said. "In the six years leading up to Covid, the US visitor numbers to New Zealand doubled and looking at the average spend in New Zealand by US tourists, [...]
PH still very low risk for Covid
The Philippines remains a very low risk for Covid-19, OCTA Research said on Monday. OCTA cited data from the Johns Hopkins University, Our World in Data and Worldometer showing that as of March 18, the country averages 527 Covid-19 cases a day, 22 percent lower than the average the week before. The country's average daily attack rate (ADAR) is 0.47, OCTA said. ADAR is the seven-day average number of new Covid-19 cases per day per 100,000 population. Four other countries in East Asia — Timor-Leste, Taiwan, Cambodia and China — are also classified as very low risk. OCTA said China is experiencing a Covid-19 surge along with South Korea, Vietnam and Laos, with cases up by 362 percent. South Korea recorded the highest seven-day average with 404,666, a 42-percent [...]
Biden tells US businesses to ‘harden’ defences against Russia cyber threat
US President Joe Biden told US CEOs that they need to prepare businesses for possible Russian cyber attacks. (Photo: AFP/Nicholas Kamm) WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden on Monday (Mar 21) warned of intelligence pointing to a growing Russian cyber threat and urged US businesses to "immediately" prepare defences. "If you have not already done so, I urge our private sector partners to harden your cyber defences immediately," he said in a statement. Biden cited "evolving intelligence that the Russian government is exploring options for potential cyberattacks," including in response to Western sanctions over Moscow's launching of the war in Ukraine. "It's part of Russia's playbook," he said. Biden said the US government would "continue to use every tool to deter, disrupt, and if necessary, respond to cyberattacks against critical infrastructure." [...]
Russia bans Facebook and Instagram under ‘extremism’ law
Court in Moscow labels parent company Meta as ‘extremist’ amid crackdown on western media Meta relaxed its policies on hate speech towards Russian soldiers and Vladimir Putin in relation to the invasion of Ukraine. Photograph: Dado Ruvić/Reuters A Russian court has banned Facebook and Instagram in the country, labelling its parent company Meta as “extremist” amid the Kremlin’s sweeping crackdown on western social media giants. Access to Facebook and Instagram had already been restricted earlier this month after Meta confirmed it was relaxing its policies on hate speech towards Russian soldiers and Vladimir Putin in relation to the country’s war in Ukraine. Meta later said the laxer rules would only apply to people posting from inside Ukraine. The court in Moscow said that Facebook and Instagram –both of which [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 20,907 new community cases, 15 deaths and 1016 people in hospital
There are 20,907 new community cases of Covid-19, a further 15 deaths and 1016 people in hospital in Aotearoa today, the Ministry of Health says. Photo: Unsplash / Annie Spratt Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield says there are also 25 people in ICU or HDU. Dr Bloomfield says the latest analysis shows Covid-19 case numbers have passed their peak in Auckland, and are tracking down in all three district health boards. Yesterday there were 1000 people in hospital, 33 of whom were in an intensive care or high dependency unit. There were also nine deaths, taking the country's death toll since the start of the pandemic to 184. The ministry announced another 14,463 new community cases yesterday. Tomorrow the government is set to announce any decisions regarding the [...]
Calls for free public transport amid high living costs
NEW ZEALAND— Ryan Hooper-Smith from public transport campaign Free Fares NZ is calling for free public transport in Aotearoa. It comes as the government announced 50% off public transport fares for three months starting on April 1 in response to rising petrol costs, but Hooper-Smith said the Government needs to be doing more. Free Fares NZ gained more than 13,000 signatures on a petition presented to the Government asking to make public transport free for students, community service card holders, under 25s and low income earners. Hooper-Smith told Breakfast “we thought that a campaign pushing for something like free public transport is quite radical so we’re going to see and push back but surprisingly a lot of people are in favour of it". “You know ultimately when you put [...]
EU split on Russia oil sanctions, mulls other steps
Europian Union flags fly outside the Europian Commission headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, on August 10, 2019. (Photo: Reuters/Yves Herman) BRUSSELS— The European Union's foreign ministers disagreed on Monday (Mar 21) on whether and how to slap sanctions on Russia's lucrative energy sector over its invasion of Ukraine, with Germany saying the bloc was too dependent on Russian oil to decide an embargo. The EU and allies have already imposed hefty measures against Russia, including freezing its central bank's assets. Russia's siege and bombardment of Mariupol port, which EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called "a massive war crime", is increasing pressure for action. But targeting Russian energy exports, as the United States and Britain have done, is a divisive choice for the 27-nation EU, which relies on Russia [...]
Four dead, one missing after New Zealand fishing boat sinks in bad weather
Rescue operation off North Island’s North Cape hampered by thunderstorms, swells and torrential downpours A charter fishing boat (R) operated by Enchanter Fishing Charters. Four people have died and one person is missing after one of the company’s boats sank off New Zealand’s North Cape.Photograph: David Fisher/AP A fishing trip in New Zealand has ended in tragedy, with four people dead and one passenger still missing after their boat sank during wild weather. The rescue operation began on Sunday evening after a charter fishing vessel activated an emergency beacon off the North Island’s North Cape. A helicopter was first on scene at the remote location, arriving at about 11.40pm but by 2.30am the boat had sunk. Search and rescue crews winched five people to safety and transported them [...]
Hong Kong to lift flight ban on 9 countries in April, cut quarantine to 7 days for travellers
Up to 4 people will be allowed for public gatherings, up from the current 2. Passengers arrive at the international airport in Hong Kong on Mar 21, 2022. (Photo: AFP/DALE DE LA REY) HONG KONG— Hong Kong is set to resume international flights from the United States, Britain and seven other countries, the government said Monday (Mar 21) as it announced a loosening of some of the world's toughest COVID-19 restrictions. The hotel quarantine period for arrivals from abroad will also be reduced to seven days. The flight bans, known as a "circuit breaker", would be lifted from Apr 1. These were put in place after the highly transmissible Omicron variant emerged in January, with the restrictions initially covering eight countries deemed high-risk - Australia, United States, Britain, Canada, France and India, Pakistan [...]
Ukraine rejects Russian demand for surrender in Mariupol
People gather amid the destruction caused after shelling of a shopping center, in Kyiv, Ukraine, Monday, March 21, 2022. (AP Photo/ (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd) LVIV, Ukraine— Ukrainian officials defiantly rejected a Russian demand that their forces in Mariupol lay down arms and raise white flags Monday in exchange for safe passage out of the besieged strategic port city. Even as Russia intensified its attempt to bombard Mariupol into surrender, its offensive in other parts of Ukraine has floundered. Western governments and analysts see the broader conflict grinding into a war of attrition, with Russia continuing to barrage cities. In the capital Kyiv, Russian shelling devastated a shopping center near the city center, killing at least eight people and leaving a sea of rubble amid scarred high-rises. Ukrainian authorities [...]
PH Fuel firms announce first price rollback for 2022
Metro Manila, Philippines — After eleven straight weeks of increases, fuel prices will be going down this week, oil companies announced in separate advisories on Monday. Caltex, Cleanfuel, Flying V, Petro Gazz, Petron, Phoenix, Total, and Unioil said they will slash per-liter prices of gasoline by ₱P5.45 and diesel by ₱11.45 effective 6 a.m. Tuesday, March 22. Caltex, Flying V, Petron, and Unioil will also cut kerosene rates by ₱8.55 per liter on the same day. The Department of Energy, which earlier projected a big-time rollback for this week, said in its latest oil monitor that as of March 15, prices of gasoline have gone up by ₱7.10-₱7.20 per liter since the start of 2022. By the liter, diesel costs have since risen by ₱12.00-₱13.25 per liter and ₱10.50 [...]
China Eastern plane carrying 132 people crashes in Guangxi
A China Eastern Airlines plane carrying 132 people on board has crashed in Guangxi province, China's Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) says. File photo. Photo: AFP It is feared there are no survivors, but the number of casualties - and reason for the crash are not yet known. The crash of the Boeing 737 jet, in a mountainous region, led to a fire in the woods, state media is reporting. "Can confirm the plane has crashed," China Eastern Airlines said in a statement in which it also gave details of a hotline for relatives of those on board. The CAAC said the aircraft lost contact over the city of Wuzhou. It had 123 passengers and nine crew on board. State media said earlier there were 133 people [...]
NZ to send body armour, helmets, camouflage vests to Ukraine
New Zealand is pledging another $5 million in aid to Ukraine, as well as sending body armour and helmets among other equipment. Jacinda Ardern. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the additional $5 million would bring New Zealand's contribution to $11 million. When asked why New Zealand is not sending weapons, Ardern said Ukraine's request for lethal aid was being met by other countries. "What's important is that their needs are being met in ways that every country can contribute. "We haven't yet made the decision to add those additional ways of support. We have less scope than many countries to provide it and it would be a fundamental change in approach." Local residents carry water from the food warehouse, on the territory which is under the Government of the [...]
Joe Biden warns Xi Jinping of ‘consequences’ if China backs Russia
Leaders spoke for nearly two hours but Biden did not make any direct requests to Xi to persuade Putin to end the attack Joe Biden speaks with Xi Jinping from the White House on Friday. Photograph: The White House/AFP/Getty Images Joe Biden spoke for nearly two hours with Xi Jinping as the US sought to dissuade China from backing Russia’s war on Ukraine. A White House account of the call on Friday said that the US president “described the implications and consequences if China provides material support to Russia as it conducts brutal attacks against Ukrainian cities and civilians”. A senior administration official said there would be consequences “not just for China’s relationship with the United States, but for the wider world”, but would not give more details on [...]
Putin appears at big rally as troops press attack in Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin seen on the big screen as he delivers his speech at the concert marking the eighth anniversary of the referendum on the state status of Crimea and Sevastopol and its reunification with Russia, in Moscow, Russia, Friday, March 18, 2022, with a banner reading "For Russia" projected in the backgroud. (Vladimir Astapkovich/Sputnik Pool Photo via AP) Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared at a huge flag-waving rally at a packed Moscow stadium Friday and lavished praise on his troops fighting in Ukraine, three weeks into the invasion that has led to heavier-than-expected Russian losses on the battlefield and increasingly authoritarian rule at home. Meanwhile, the leader of Russia’s delegation in diplomatic talks with Ukraine said the sides have narrowed their differences. The Ukrainian side said [...]
Ardern conveys NZ support for Ukraine in call to Denys Shmyhal
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern this morning spoke to Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, to offer New Zealand's strong support for Ukraine and its people, and its total condemnation of Russia's aggression. Jacinda Ardern and Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. Photo: NZME / AFP "Prime Minister Shmyhal thanked New Zealand for being one of the first countries to take swift practical action against Russia's aggression," Ardern said. "As he noted, when it comes to the importance of the global response, there is no bigger or smaller country, there are only countries that are reacting." Ardern said she told Shmyhal that this country considered Russian President Vladimir Putin's attacks on his neighbour to be "unprovoked, unjustified and illegal". "New Zealand will continue to call on Russia to immediately cease military [...]
NZ Covid-19 Update: 18,514 new Covid-19 community cases on Saturday, 10 death
There are 18,514 new Covid-19 cases in the community in New Zealand on Saturday, the Ministry of Health has announced. Covid-19 vaccination centre in The Cloud, Auckland. (Source: 1News) There are 939 people in hospital with the virus, including 24 in an intensive care or high dependency unit. This is a decrease on Friday's hospitalisations of 943, with one less person in ICU compared with 24 hours ago. The ministry also announced 10 Covid-related deaths. Of the 10 people who died, one was from Northland, three were from Auckland, one was from Waikato, two were from Bay of Plenty, two from the Lakes DHB area, and one was from Wellington. One of the people was in their 40s, two were in their 60s, four were in their 80s, [...]
‘Safe’ New Zealand to reopen borders early
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. XINHUA PHOTO WELLINGTON— New Zealand will scrap its strict border controls early because the country's world-leading pandemic response has made it "a safe place to visit," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced on Wednesday. "We're ready to welcome the world back," Ardern told reporters. "I'm proud that New Zealand is a country able at this moment in time to provide a safe place for our tourists to return to." Vaccinated Australians could visit without undergoing quarantine or self-isolation starting in April, rather than the July date originally planned. Travelers from nations with visa-free arrangements with New Zealand — including major markets in the Northern Hemisphere, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan — can do the same from May 1 onward. Ardern called the change [...]
‘Close the sky over Ukraine’, President Zelenskyy urges US Congress
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivers a video address to senators and members of the House of Representatives gathered in the Capitol Visitor Center Congressional Auditorium, at the US Capitol in Washington on Mar 16, 2022. (Photo: Drew Angerer/Pool via REUTERS) WASHINGTON— Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged American lawmakers to do more to protect his country from Russia's invasion in an address to the US Congress on Wednesday (Mar 16) and pleaded with President Joe Biden to be the world's "leader of peace". Zelenskyy continued his push for the imposition of a no-fly zone over Ukraine and asked for aircraft and defensive systems to respond to the invasion launched by Russian last month that has unleashed a wave of refugees. He also called for more economic sanctions against Russia. Ukraine is [...]
Vietnam ends COVID-19 quarantine for international travellers
Ho Chi Minh City residents are now barred from gathering in groups larger than pairs in public AFP/Huu Khoa HANOI— Vietnam announced an end to quarantine for international travellers on Wednesday (Mar 16), as it seeks to restart its tourism industry after two years of strict COVID-19 restrictions. The only virus requirement for visitors will be a negative COVID-19 test, the country's ministry of health said in a statement. The communist state's tourism sector was worth up to US$32 billion a year before the pandemic, but it ground to a standstill during the pandemic as the government restricted travel. Virus curbs have slowly been eased in recent months, with visitors trickling back in since November to play golf at resorts, under a bubble arrangement. Vietnam also announced the resumption [...]
Economy up 3 percent in final quarter of 2021 – Stats NZ
The economy rebounded at the end of last year as consumer spending picked up after Covid lockdowns were eased. Photo: 123rf Stats NZ data showed gross domestic product (GDP) rose a seasonally adjusted 3.0 percent in the three months ended December, slightly below expectations, and compared with a revised 3.6 percent fall in the previous quarter. Growth was driven by improved activity in the retail, hospitality and construction sectors. "Households spent more on goods and services, particularly on durable items such as clothing and footwear, and electrical appliances," Stats NZ senior manager Ruvani Ratnayake said. Service industries make up about two thirds of the economy, and showed 2.5 percent growth, but the household spending component rose 5.2 percent. Goods producing industries such as manufacturing rose 6.5 percent, after slumping [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: Ten deaths, 930 people in hospital, 19,566 new community cases
Ten deaths - the most in a single day - have been reported in today's Ministry of Health statistics, along with 19,566 new cases. Photo: AFP There are 23 people in intensive care. Speaking at today's Covid update, Northern Region Health Coordination Centre chief clinical officer Dr Andrew Old said they were pleased Auckland case numbers were tracking down and confirmed that Auckland's peak had now passed. Authorities are hopeful hospitalisations may turn a corner in the next week. The average age of those hospitalised in the northern region remains about 40 The total average stay remains less than two days but for those over 65, it is more than three days. Dr Old said an initial review of hospital admissions had found one third of those clearly had [...]
Russia and Ukraine ‘close to agreeing’ on neutral status, says Sergei Lavrov
Foreign minister’s claim undermined by aggressive comments from Vladimir Putin Sergei Lavrov suggested in a media interview that talks with Kyiv were making ground despite the continued bloodshed. Photograph: Maxim Shemetov/AFP/Getty A peace deal under which Ukraine abandons its Nato aspirations in return for Russian withdrawal and western security guarantees appeared to inch closer on Wednesday even as Vladimir Putin’s troops were accused of killing people queueing for bread in a northern Ukrainian city. Russia’s foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, and the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, suggested talks were making progress despite continued bloodshed and fears from some EU leaders that the Kremlin was toying with Kyiv. “The negotiations are not easy for obvious reasons,” Lavrov told RBC News. “But nevertheless, there is some hope of reaching a compromise. [...]
As Indonesia prepares to move its capital to Kalimantan, some civil servants are reluctant to relocate
This undated handout showing computer-generated imagery released by Nyoman Nuarta on January 18, 2022 shows a design illustration of Indonesia's future presidential palace in East Kalimantan, as part of the country's relocation of its capital from slowly sinking Jakarta to a site 2,000 kilometres (1,200 miles) away on jungle-clad Borneo island that will be named "Nusantara". (Photo: Handout via AFP/Nyoman Nuarta) JAKARTA— Indonesian civil servant Dwi (not her real name) has been thinking about her career and future lately. President Joko Widodo signed the Bill on capital relocation into law on Feb 15 and it has become evident that civil servants would need to relocate from Jakarta to the new capital named Nusantara. Authorities said the move is necessary to save sinking and congested Jakarta as well as to enhance [...]
‘Empowered women to boost economy’ -Sara Duterte
VICE presidential candidate and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. Photos by John Orven Verdote PHILIPPINES— Vice presidential candidate and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio highlighted the importance of economic empowerment for women as the country pushes for post-Covid economic recovery. A longtime champion of women empowerment, Duterte-Carpio stressed the need to address the lack of economic opportunities for women in the communities, saying they are good community partners, especially in driving the country's economy. "Alam natin na ang mga kababaihan sa mga komunidad ay isa sa mga sektor na minsan ay hindi nabibigyan ng pagkakataon na maging parte ng ating paglago o progreso — kahit pa man alam din natin na malaki ang kanilang potensyal at papel sa usapin ng kaunlaran (We all know that women in our communities [...]
UK to host Baltic, Nordic leaders to find new ways to isolate Russia
FILE PHOTO: British Prime Minister Boris Johnson leaves Downing Street in London, Britain March 9, 2022. REUTERS/Hannah McKay LONDON— British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host leaders from countries along Russia's northwestern flank next week to discuss ways they can respond to President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, including finding new ways to isolate Russia's economy. The leaders from countries in the Joint Expeditionary Force, a British-led grouping made up of Denmark, Estonia, Finland and Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden will meet for talks in London on Tuesday. The leaders are expected to agree to more military exercises in the North Atlantic and Baltic Sea and will discuss the war in Ukraine and energy security, Johnson's office said. "European security has been shaken by the attack [...]
Back to the future: Govt proposing buy-back bottle scheme
The Government is proposing a new recycling and waste management scheme that would give New Zealanders 20c every time they recycle a plastic bottle. It would also standardise curbside collections around the country so that councils recycle the same materials, and households and businesses would be able to separate food scraps and stop putting organic waste into landfills. Environment Minister David Parker says the aim is to encourage people to hand in their single use plastic bottles. The scheme won't be rolled out until 2025, but it would see a 20c increase in price for drinks in single use plastic bottles, which is given back to consumers when they return their bottles. Similar schemes existed for glass bottles in the past and were a staple of many a Kiwi [...]
Auckland case numbers could be peaking, modeller says
There are strong signs Auckland has reached the peak of Omicron Covid-19 case numbers, a modeller says, but hospitalisations and other regions' cases are not there yet. Photo: 123rf Canterbury University epidemic modeller Michael Plank said he is confident community cases in the Auckland region will edge down from here, but that hospitalisations will be slower to decline. Community case numbers in the supercity have been falling slowly: 6077 were reported yesterday, which is down from 7240 the day before and less than half the number reported some days last week. Plank, who is a maths professor, said hospitalisations lag behind community cases and are expected to continue rising before they begin slowly decreasing. He expects other regions' case numbers will follow Auckland, and will peak in about [...]
Russia strikes near Ukrainian capital; port city under siege
Seen through a broken window, a fire burns in an apartment building after the shelling of a residential district in Mariupol, Ukraine, Friday, March 11, 2022. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka) MARIUPOL, Ukraine— Russian forces pounded the Ukrainian port city of Mariupol on Saturday, shelling its downtown as residents hid in an iconic mosque and elsewhere to avoid the explosions. Fighting also raged in the outskirts of the capital, Kyiv, as Russia kept up its bombardment of other cities throughout the country. Mariupol has endured some of Ukraine’s worst punishment since Russia invaded. Unceasing barrages have thwarted repeated attempts to bring food, water and medicine into the city of 430,000 and to evacuate its trapped civilians. More than 1,500 people have died in Mariupol during the siege, according to the [...]
Saudi Arabia puts 81 to death in its largest mass execution
SASHA MORDOVETS/GETTY IMAGES ‘If someone threatens the life of many people, that means he has to be punished by the death penalty,’ Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly said in an interview with The Atlantic. Saudi Arabia on Saturday executed 81 people convicted of crimes ranging from killings to belonging to militant groups, the largest known mass execution carried out in the kingdom in its modern history. The number of executed surpassed even the toll of a January 1980 mass execution for the 63 militants convicted of seizing the Grand Mosque in Mecca in 1979, the worst-ever militant attack to target the kingdom and Islam's holiest site. It wasn't clear why the kingdom choose Saturday for the executions, though they came as much of the world's attention remained [...]
Prepare for petrol to reach $4 litre – AA says
Drivers should prepare to pay up to $4 a litre for petrol, according to the Automobile Association. Petrol prices in Auckland last Friday. Photo: RNZ / Sarah Robson Extreme market volatility pushed crude oil prices to nearly $US140 a barrel this week. AA policy advisor Terry Collins said Europe has relied on Russian energy, but can't any more, and global sanctions are halting supply. "There's a concern they can use it as an economic weapon by turning off the gas or coal or petrol supplies, so what Europe's now deciding is to wean itself off that reliance on Russian energy. "In the short term the US and other economies are putting sanctions on it, which means they can't sell the product anyway." Even though New Zealand is not [...]
Firm Pentagon ‘no’ to Polish plan to send jets to Ukraine
A military officer is passing between Bulgaria's MiG-29 and Spanish Eurofighter EF-2000 Typhoon II aircraft and MiG-29, in Graf Ignatievo, Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022.. As part of the united efforts of NATO partners to bolster the defense of the Alliance's eastern flank while tensions are continuing over a possible Russian invasion in Ukraine, Spain is sending fighter jets to Bulgaria to implement joint air policing missions. (AP Photo/Valentina Petrova) WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon on Wednesday slammed the door on a Polish proposal for providing Ukraine with MiG fighter jets, saying allied efforts against the Russian invasion should be focused on more useful weaponry and the MiG transfer with a U.S. and NATO connection would run a “high risk” of escalating the war. By rebuffing the proposal involving [...]
Australia’s military to grow by nearly 20,000 people by 2040
Australia's military will move towards a wartime footing under government plans to boost the number of uniformed personnel to almost 80,000 by 2040, amid strategic risks posed by China and Russia. The expansion will see 18,500 more uniformed defence personnel (file picture). Photo: AFP / Australian Department of Defence The proposed $38 billion expansion would see the full-time Australian Defence Force grow to a size not seen since the Vietnam War, requiring its biggest recruitment effort in 40 years. Under the massive expansion to be unveiled by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Defence Minister Peter Dutton at Brisbane's Gallipoli Barracks on Thursday, the total number of Defence employees, including civilians, would rise to more than 101,000. According to the government, the additional 18,500 uniformed personnel is 6000 more [...]
IMF approves US$1.4 billion in emergency funding for Ukraine
People gather at the main hall of the Central train station, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, in Warsaw, Poland on Mar 9, 2022. (Photo: Reuters/Kacper Pempel) WASHINGTON— The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said its executive board on Wednesday (Mar 9) approved US$1.4 billion in emergency financing for Ukraine to help meet urgent spending needs and mitigate the economic impact of Russia's military invasion. The global lender said Ukrainian authorities had canceled an existing stand-by lending arrangement with the IMF, but would work with the fund to design an appropriate economic program focused on rehabilitation and growth when conditions permit. "The Russian military invasion of Ukraine has been responsible for a massive humanitarian and economic crisis," IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said in a statement after the meeting, predicting [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 21,015 new community cases, 845 people in hospital, 16 in ICU
The daily number of new community cases has dropped slightly today to 21,015 cases, but the number of people in hospital with the coronavirus continues to soar, rising to 845 today. Photo: 123rf.com The Ministry of Health said 16 people are in intensive care. There was also one new death reported today. There are now more people in hospital with Covid-19 than at any other point over the past two years, the Ministry said. "DHBs have been planning and preparing for managing Covid-19 and the higher number of cases in the community which are resulting in more people in hospital. Our hospitals and their dedicated teams are continuing to do what's needed to make sure everyone gets the treatment they need." Today's numbers are down compared to yesterday's [...]
Asian shares surge as Russia-Ukraine talks buoy sentiment
FILE PHOTO: A customer hands over Russian rouble banknotes and coins to a vendor at a market in Omsk, Russia February 18, 2022. REUTERS/Alexey Malgavko BEIJING— Asian shares surged on Thursday, tracking Wall Street's gains as planned diplomatic talks between Russia and Ukraine buoyed sentiment, although analysts warned the rally could be susceptible to a sharp reversal as risks remain. Oil prices also regained some footing, having fallen more than 12per cent on the previous session as United Arab Emirates pledged to support hiking oil output to ease mayhem in energy markets. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan gained 1.6per cent in early trade. Japan's Nikkei surged 3.4per cent while Australian shares were up 1per cent. Chinese blue chips rose 1.96per cent while Hong Kong's Hang Seng [...]
McDonald’s, Starbucks, Coca-Cola and Pepsi suspend Russian operations
‘Our values mean we cannot ignore the needless human suffering unfolding in Ukraine,’ says burger chain’s chief executive A McDonald's restaurant on Pushkin Square in Moscow. Photograph: AFP/Getty Images The pull-out of iconic western brands from Russia is gathering momentum, with Starbucks, Coca-Cola and Pepsi joining McDonald’s in pausing operations in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Late on Tuesday, PepsiCo, the soft-drink and snack maker, said it was suspending all advertising in Russia and stopping the sale of its drinks brands, after a similar announcement by its rival Coca-Cola. Fast-food giant McDonald’s said earlier that it will temporarily suspend operations at its 850 locations. The Chicago-based company, which owns 84% of its stores in Russia, could take a big financial hit because of the closures. In a [...]
Australian Prime Minister to declare floods a national emergency
Prime Minister Scott Morrison will declare a national emergency in response to catastrophic floods in northern New South Wales. Federal and state governments have been criticised for a slow response to the flooding disaster - here soldiers load food for delivery to areas of northern New South Wales affected by floods. Photo: AFP / Australian Defence Force / Dustin Anderson The declaration gives the federal government power to intervene and deploy resources. It is a legislative power that Morrison sought after the 2019-2020 bushfire crisis. Morrison is also set to outline more money to help communities recover from floods on the east coast when he visits Lismore today, as government ministers expect anger from residents whose lives have been upturned. The federal government has been criticised for the [...]
Drivers in the Philippines fret over shrinking income
RIDE OF THE FUTURE | Some families may turn to the energy-efficient e-tricycle, such as this one picking up passengers on Tuesday in Divisoria, Manila, to ride out the soaring prices of diesel and gasoline. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is driving up global oil prices. (MARIANNE BERMUDEZ / PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER) MANILA, Philippines — Jeff Gochangco, a 58-year-old jeepney driver and a father of four, became jobless when the series of lockdowns to contain the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 put a stop to public transportation. Although he was allowed to pay only part of the P5,000 monthly rent as a relief from his landlord, his unpaid bill has now accumulated to P56,000 after nearly two years of the health crisis. He was able to return to work [...]
Covid-19 update: 22,454 new community cases in New Zealand, 742 people in hospital, four further deaths
The Ministry of Health is reporting 22,454 new community cases of Covid-19 and four further deaths today, with 742 people in hospital with the virus. Photo: 123rf.com Today's case numbers are slightly down on yesterday's 23,894 new cases of Covid-19, with the number of hospitlisations also dropping from 756 yesterday. However the number of patients in ICU has increased from 16 to 19. The four new deaths reported today were in the Lakes, Tairāwhiti, and Counties Manukau DHBs. Today's community case numbers include 8,529 in the Auckland Region. The Ministry said this represents 56 percent of the total new cases, down from 61 percent of total new cases a week ago. "This number is still high and the outbreak is still very active in the Auckland region, [...]
Joe Biden bans Russian oil imports in ‘powerful blow to Putin’s war machine’
Joe Biden speaks in Fort Worth on a visit to Texas on Tuesday. As he stepped off Air Force One, Biden acknowledged gas prices were going to go up. Photograph: Nicholas Kamm/AFP/Getty Images Joe Biden announced a ban on US imports of Russian oil on Tuesday, the latest effort to cut off foreign revenue as punishment for the invasion of Ukraine. “Today I’m announcing the United States is targeting the main artery of Russia’s economy,” Biden said at the White House. “We’re banning all imports of Russian oil and gas and energy. That means Russian oil will no longer be acceptable at US ports, and the American people will deal another powerful blow to Putin’s war machine.” As recently as Sunday, the Biden administration appeared not to be in [...]
France in talks with PH for submarine deal, joint patrols in West PH Sea
Metro Manila, Philippines — France is ready to extend assistance to the Philippines in modernizing its armed forces, including the possibility of supplying assets for a Philippine "submarine force." In a press briefing, Rear Admiral Jean Mathieu-Rey, Joint Commander of the French Armed Forces in the Asia-Pacific, said France is a good partner for the Philippines should it decide to pursue buying submarines. "We are working with our partners with the Philippines on these kinds of assets. France has a long-time tradition of building submarines. We have started our submarine patrol since 1973," Rey said. "We are good partners who can help in establishing a submarine force," he added. Rey, however, clarified that no official deal has been reached so far. The French official added that a "submarine force" would be [...]
Isolation length to be shortened for Covid cases and contacts
The isolation length for Covid cases and household contacts will be decreased from 10 days to seven, kicking in from 11.59pm March 11. Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said that "high case numbers and household contacts, and the current 10 day isolation requirement, is having a wider impact on many parts of our lives". "There needs to be a balance between effectively controlling the outbreak and the flow-on effect for business and essential goods and services such as transport and food supply. "The most up to date public health advice is that there is a decline in infectiousness of Omicron over time, and that in most cases transmission occurs within seven days," he said. Hipkins said the reduction follows "similar changes overseas and increasing evidence that people are most [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 15,161 new community cases, 618 in hospital, one death
There are 15,161 new community cases of Covid-19 in New Zealand today, with 610 people now in hospital, the Ministry of Health reports. Photo: 123rf.com In a statement, the Ministry said 10 of the people in hospital are in ICU. While this is the third day in a row to see a drop in case numbers, the Ministry is still urging caution. "The variation in reporting numbers each day means that the rolling average of cases gives a more reliable indicator of testing trends. The seven-day rolling average of cases is today 17,272, up from 16,687 yesterday." It said it was also possible that there may be delays in people self-reporting Rapid Antigen Test results, even if it is a negative result. The Ministry also noted the increases [...]
Sydney faces more rain as death toll from Australian floods rises
Major floods are still underway in some areas west of Sydney along the Hawkesbury River (Photo: AFP/Nikki Short) Sydney— Australia's most populous city, braced for more rain on Sunday (Mar 6) after being drenched by heavy downpours over the past week, as the death toll from flooding across the eastern part of the country reached 17. A wild weather system that dumped more than a year's worth of rainfall over a week in southern Queensland and northern New South Wales (NSW) brought widespread destruction, leaving thousands of people in the states displaced and sweeping away property, livestock and roads. Seventeen people have been killed since the deluge began, including a Queensland woman, whose body was found on Saturday, according to police. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) of NSW said [...]
China urges ‘direct’ Russia-Ukraine negotiations as war rages
Ukrainian soldiers help a fleeing family crossing the Irpin river in the outskirts of Kyiv, Ukraine, Saturday, Mar 5, 2022. (Photo: AP/Emilio Morenatti) BEIJING— Beijing urged direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine during a Saturday (Mar 5) call between Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi and his American counterpart Antony Blinken, as the war following Moscow's invasion entered a tenth day. The exchange marked the first call between the country's top diplomats since the beginning of hostilities marked by heavy Russian bombardment and fierce resistance from Ukrainian fighters who maintain control of the capital Kyiv. China has walked a cautious diplomatic line since the conflict began, refusing to condemn Moscow's actions after only last month touting a "no limits" friendship between the two countries. On Saturday, Wang told Secretary of [...]
Kiwis must accept Covid is ‘not going to go away’ – Hipkins
Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins says New Zealanders will have to accept Covid-19 is “not going to go away” as the virus continues to run rampant through the community. “I think there’s certainly more infection in the community than the testing numbers will be showing,” he told Q+A on Sunday. Chris Hipkins. (Source: Getty) “I think there are a lot of people who will be experiencing very mild symptoms. Some of them will be staying home, and some of them will just be completely oblivious to the fact they might have Covid-19.” It comes after recent models predicted the country’s Covid-19 infection rate could be as much as five times higher than daily case numbers are showing. Hipkins said it is “certainly possible”, adding, “I suspect there’s a [...]
Defiant Putin warns the west: your sanctions are akin to an act of war
Ukraine told: your statehood is in doubt as Russian bombs end ceasefire in Mariupol Ukrainian soldiers help families fleeing the town of Irpin on Saturday. Photograph: Vadim Ghirdă/AP Vladimir Putin delivered a chilling warning to the west over the imposition of sanctions on Russia on Saturday, warning that measures designed to cripple his country’s economy were “akin to an act of war”. In comments that were both defiant and threatening, the Russian president also told Ukraine’s leaders that their nation risked being dismantled as an independent sovereign state if they continued to resist Russia’s invasion. “The current leadership needs to understand that if they continue doing what they are doing, they risk the future of Ukrainian statehood,” Putin said. “If that happens they will have to be blamed for [...]
New Zealand borders set to reopen this year but could be bumpy road ahead – Tourism NZ
The head of Tourism New Zealand says 2022 looks like the year of reopening, but he acknowledges it will be a bumpy road ahead. New Zealand's borders have been mostly closed to overseas travellers for nearly two years. Photo: RNZ / Katie Todd The borders have been closed for nearly two years with only a few attempts at a trans-Tasman bubble. In response - and at the request of the then tourism minister - the organisation began honing in on the domestic market, including launching the campaign 'Do Something New, New Zealand'. Its chief executive René de Monchy said Tourism New Zealand would continue to play a role in domestic marketing and supporting the industry and regions, but its primary focus would be back on international markets. "The [...]
Christopher Luxon’s State of the Nation speech: Government needs to stop its ‘tax grab’
National is launching a major offensive against the government, promising to reverse every tax increase imposed by this Labour government. Chris Luxon gave a State of the Nation speech in Auckland this morning Watch it here: Luxon's address was delayed earlier this year because of the Omicron outbreak. He said if elected in 2023, National will repeal the Regional Fuel Tax, the extension to the Bright Line Test, and the removal of interest deductibility for landlords. A National-led government would also adjust all tax bracket thresholds, so people would pay less tax. Luxon said New Zealand has a cost of living "crisis" and the government needs to stop its "tax grab".
US senator slated for calling for Russians to assassinate Putin
South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham is facing intense pushback from all corners of Washington after calling for the Russian people to end the Ukraine war by assassinating President Vladimir Putin. Lindsey Graham. (Source: Associated Press) White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Friday that it is “not the position of the United States government.” Graham, a former Air Force lawyer and longtime defence hawk, tweeted on Friday (NZ time) that “the only people who can fix this” are Russians. “The only way this ends is for somebody in Russia to take this guy out,” Graham tweeted. “You would be doing your country - and the world - a great service.” The tweet drew swift pushback from some of the most conservative and liberal members of Congress. Texas [...]
Concerns around false information online amid Ukraine invasion
Netsafe is warning Kiwis not to take all social media content about the conflict in Ukraine at face value. Concerns raised around false information online in Ukraine invasion. Netsafe's Sean Lyons says discerning fake from real can be a challenge. (Source: 1News) "We might be forming opinions that aren't actually accurate. We might be part of the spread of that information if we don't know where it's come from," says Sean Lyons, Director of Technology and Partnerships for Netsafe. Tom Mutch is a Kiwi journalist on the ground in Ukraine. Speaking from Lviv, he says discerning fake from real online can be a real challenge. "It's often very hard to figure out these videos, exactly where they are, exactly what the troops in them are doing, exactly where the [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 18,833 new community cases, 597 people in hospital, five deaths
The Ministry of Health has reported 18,833 new community cases of Covid-19 today, with 597 people in hospitals, including 10 people who need intensive care. Photo: AFP The Ministry has also reported the deaths of five people with the coronavirus. Yesterday there were 22,527 new community cases, 562 in hospital including 11 in intensive care, and five deaths reported. What's been happening? Auckland health officials said yesterday that case numbers may have reached a peak in the country's biggest city, but warn the number of people in hospital could continue to rise for the next week. A leading immunisation specialist says parents should not be worried about US research showing plummeting immunity among children who received the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine, as there's a straightforward explanation, and other studies [...]
Hong Kong retail chains ration staples to curb COVID-19 panic buying
Customers wearing face masks queue up to pay at a supermarket, ahead of mass coronavirus disease (COVID-19) testing, in Hong Kong on Mar 2, 2022. (Photo: REUTERS/Tyrone Siu) HONG KONG— Two of Hong Kong's largest consumer retail chains started rationing some food and drug items on Friday (Mar 4) to curb panic buying that has plagued the city over the past week amid fears of a citywide lockdown as COVID-19 cases soar. Health authorities reported 52,523 new COVID-19 cases on Friday and 136 deaths. This compares with about 100 infections at the start of February and a clean three-month streak of zero cases before the end of December. It was the third consecutive day that the number of cases topped 50,000. The spread has limited available manpower in the health [...]
May 2022 PH Elections: UniTeam tells poll rivals to stop ‘gutter politics’
BBM, LENI, ISKO ON ROAD TRIP Presidential canidates former senator Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr., Vice President Maria Leonor ‘Leni’ Robredo and Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso hit the road as they campaign in Sorsogon, Cavite and Isabela on Friday, March 4, 2022. Robredo and Moreno were with running mates Sen. Francis ‘Kiko’ Pangilinan and Dr. Willie Ong. PHOTOS BY RENE H. DILAN, MIKE ALQUINTO AND JOHN ORVEN VERDOTE PHILIPPINES— Clarifications were made on Friday by the camp of former senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. or BBM and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and that of Vice President Maria Leonor "Leni" Robredo and Sen. Francisco Pangilinan on perceptions that, respectively, they were chickening out from public scrutiny and were using the Catholic Church to advance their campaigns for [...]
Russia steps up onslaught after Ukraine ‘narrowly’ escapes nuclear disaster
Putin forces intensify strikes on civilian areas as UN security council hears of their ‘incredibly reckless’ attack on power plant A house on fire following shelling on the town of Irpin, west of Kyiv, Ukraine. Photograph: Oleksandr Ratushniak/AP The US envoy to the UN said the world had narrowly averted a nuclear catastrophe in Russia’s attack on Europe’s largest nuclear power plant, as Moscow’s forces intensified their devastating campaign of artillery and airstrikes against civilian areas of Ukraine. Meanwhile, Nato warned there was still worse to come in the war. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, speaking at an emergency meeting of the UN security council in New York on Friday, said Russia’s actions, which caused a major fire at the Zaporizhzhia compound, reflected a “dangerous new escalation” in its invasion of [...]
Russia blocks Facebook, says it restricts access to Russian media
Russia is blocking Facebook, the country's communications regulator said on Friday, in response to what it said were restrictions of access to Russian media on the platform. Photo: 123rf The regulator, Roskomnadzor, said there had been 26 cases of discrimination against Russian media by Meta Platforms Inc's Facebook since October 2020, including restrictions in recent days of state-backed channels like RT and the RIA news agency. The move is a major escalation in an ongoing confrontation between big tech companies and Russia, which has in recent years issued a slew of fines and hobbled services through slowdowns. The tensions have ramped up amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special operation." Meta's head of global affairs Nick Clegg said the company would continue to do everything [...]
NCR under Alert Level 1 in March
PHILIPPINES— The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) on Sunday placed the National Capital Region (NCR) and 38 other areas under Alert Level 1. The lower alert level will be in force from March 1 to 15, Cabinet Secretary and Palace acting spokesman Karlo Alexei Nograles said. Other areas in Luzon that will be under Alert Level 1 are Abra, Apayao, Baguio City and Kalinga in the Cordillera Administrative Region; Dagupan City, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan in Region 1; Batanes, Cagayan, City of Santiago, Isabela and Quirino in Region 2; Angeles City, Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Olongapo City, Pampanga and Tarlac in Region 3; Cavite and Laguna in Region 4-A; Marinduque, Puerto Princesa City and Romblon in Region 4-B; and Naga [...]
Australia to send weapons to Ukraine, stepping up military aid
Australia will fund the supply of weapons to the government of Ukraine to help it fight Russian forces invading the country, stepping up its support days after saying it would only provide “non-lethal” military equipment. Prime Minister Scott Morrison spoke to cabinet colleagues on Sunday morning to start sending the military supplies to Ukraine through allies such as the United States and NATO partners in Europe. A civilian volunteer waits with his gun at a territorial defence unit registration office.CREDIT:GETTY Speaking after joining Ukrainian-Australians at a church service in Sydney, the Prime Minister also signalled more humanitarian aid after the government spoke to the Ukrainian community about taking refugees who are fleeing the war. Mr Morrison spoke to Defence Minister Peter Dutton on Sunday to arrange the expansion [...]
More than 360,000 people have fled war in Ukraine so far, says UN
More than 4.5m more could join exodus if fighting spreads, according to Ukrainian authorities A volunteer distributes toys to Ukrainian children in Medyka, Poland, on Sunday. Photograph: Aleksander Kalka/Zuma Press Wire/Rex/Shutterstock At least 368,000 people have already fled their homes in Ukraine, according to the UN refugee agency, and more than 4.5 million more could follow if the fighting spreads, Ukrainian authorities have said, with reports of tens of thousands on the move within the country itself. The majority of people are fleeing to one of 12 border crossings Ukraine shares with its neighbour Poland, which by Sunday morning had registered 156,000 arrivals. Others are crossing at one of nine border points with Romania, or into Hungary, Slovakia or Moldova, according to figures collected by the UNHCR. [...]
World Russia’s Putin puts nuclear forces on high alert as West rallies behind Ukraine
People walk towards a damaged vehicle, at the site of fighting with Russian troops, after Russia launched a massive military operation against Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Feb 26, 2022. (Photo: REUTERS/Valentyn Ogirenko) KYIV— President Vladimir Putin put Russia's nuclear deterrent on high alert on Sunday (Feb 27) in the face of a barrage of Western reprisals for his war on Ukraine, which said it had repelled Russian ground forces attacking its biggest cities. The United States said Putin was escalating the war with "dangerous rhetoric", amid signs that the biggest assault on a European state since World War Two was not producing rapid victories, but instead generating a far-reaching and concerted Western response. The Ukrainian president's office said negotiations with Moscow without preconditions would be held at the [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 14,633 new community cases, 344 in hospital, five in ICU
As New Zealand marks two years of living with Covid-19, there are 14,633 new cases of Covid-19 in the community today, the Ministry of Health reports. Photo: AFP In a statement, the Ministry of Health said there are also 344 cases in hospital and five in ICU. The cases in hospital are in Northland (5), North Shore (53), Middlemore (128), Auckland (100), Tauranga (11), Taranaki (1), Waikato (28), Canterbury (4) Southern (4), Hutt Valley (6) Capital and Coast (3) and Tairawhiti (1). The new community cases today are in Northland (208), Auckland (9,305), Waikato (1,530), Bay of Plenty (762), Lakes (265), Hawke's Bay (138), MidCentral (175), Whanganui (30), Taranaki (67), Tairāwhiti (60), Wairarapa (52), Capital and Coast (604), Hutt Valley (281), Nelson Marlborough (178), Canterbury (573), South Canterbury [...]
New tsunami alert in works for NZ after Tonga eruption
A new national Civil Defence tsunami alert category is being worked up following the huge impact of the Tongan volcano eruption on Northland's coastline. Tūtūkākā marina's Sunday-morning Tongan tsunami aftermath. Photo: Tania Whyte/ Northern Advocate No lives were lost when the tsunami hit Tūtūkākā marina after the 15 January eruption, but a woman was rescued in the dark from the sea after falling overboard into powerful swirling currents - while trying to get off her damaged boat, into her dinghy and onto terra firma. Millions of dollars of damage ensued with boats wrecked and sunk. Meanwhile Whangaroa Harbour boaties feared they would be cast adrift after the sea's violent tsunami swirling almost forced loose their anchors. The new notification would add specific references for boaties into tsunami notification [...]
Officers stood down over mandates seen protesting at Parliament – Police association
Some officers who resigned rather than get a Covid vaccination have been seen protesting at Parliament, facing down their former colleagues on the frontline, the police association says. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver The High Court on Friday quashed the mandate for police and Defence Force staff but it doesn't impact interal vaccination policies of the organisations. The police association is expecting most officers stood down over Covid-19 vaccine mandates will return to work. Association president Chris Cahill told Morning Report police would have to consider what work returning officers do as some may have been protesters at Parliament. The roles they would do back on the force would also have to be considered from a health and safety perspective, he said. Cahill said unvaccinated officers would be [...]
13,606 Covid-19 cases in New Zealand on Saturday
There are 13,606 cases in New Zealand on Saturday, the Ministry of Health has announced. Nurses at an Auckland testing centre preparing PCR nasal swabs. (Source: Getty) The figure is another daily record for New Zealand, eclipsing the 12,011 cases that were announced on Friday. The cases are in Northland (218), Auckland (9,262), Waikato (1,154), Bay of Plenty (690), Lakes (185), Hawke’s Bay (106), MidCentral (123), Whanganui (28), Taranaki (52), Tairāwhiti (48), Wairarapa (18), Capital and Coast (413), Hutt Valley (130), Nelson Marlborough (176), Canterbury (469), South Canterbury (20), Southern (505), West Coast (3); Unknown (6). Those case numbers are from both PCR and rapid antigen (RAT) tests. There are 263 cases in hospital, with five in ICU or HDU.
Defense chief: PH ‘neutral’ on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
Metro Manila, Philippines — Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Friday said the Philippines will remain neutral for now as Russia unleashes deadly military attacks on Ukraine. He said authorities are closely watching the developments in Ukraine, but refused to issue a strong statement against Russia and its president Vladimir Putin despite earlier rebuke from various world leaders. The Philippines' Asian neighbors, such as Japan and Taiwan, strongly condemned Russia on Friday, declaring that they will impose economic sanctions on Russia. "Wala naman tayong pakialam sa Europe kung ano ang ginagawa nila doon, hindi naman tayo katabi ng Ukraine. Yung mga bansang karatig, nagpapahayag ng suporta sa Ukraine. Tayo neutral muna tayo ngayon," he said in an interview. [Translation: We are not located beside Ukraine and it's none of our [...]
China says it respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and Russia’s security concerns
China's Wang Yi, state councillor and foreign minister, waves as he leaves a news conference in Tokyo, Japan, Nov 24, 2020. (Photo: REUTERS/Issei Kato/Pool) WASHINGTON— Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told senior European officials on Friday (Feb 25) that China respects countries' sovereignty, including Ukraine's, but that Russia's concerns about NATO's eastward expansion should be properly addressed. After weeks of warnings from Western leaders, Russian President Vladimir Putin unleashed an invasion of Ukraine from the north, east and south on Thursday that was the biggest attack on a European state since World War Two. Weeks before the invasion, China and Russia announced a strategic partnership, and so far Beijing has stayed clear of condemning Moscow's actions. Wang said the current situation in Ukraine was not something Beijing wished to [...]
EU, US, UK and Canada announce sanctions targeting Vladimir Putin and Sergei Lavrov
Move is largely symbolic but part of attempt to highlight resolve to stand up to Russia over Ukraine Vladimir Putin (right) and Sergei Lavrov in the Kremlin last week. Photograph: EyePress News/Rex/Shutterstock The EU, the US, the UK and Canada have moved to freeze foreign-held assets of Vladimir Putin and his foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, after Europe was accused by Ukraine’s president of failing to act hard and fast enough against Russian aggression. The initiative is largely symbolic, as the Russian president is unlikely to have identifiable personal wealth abroad, but the move followed recognition that appeals for action from Volodymyr Zelenskiy had to be heard. The sanctions were closely coordinated. Two hours into a meeting of foreign ministers, the Latvian representative, Edgars Rinkēvičs, tweeted that the bloc had [...]
Anti-mandate protesters march across Auckland Harbour Bridge
All southbound traffic lanes on State Highway One over the Auckland Harbour Bridge has been closed as anti-mandate protesters march across the bridge. Photo: RNZ State Highway 1 on the Northern Motorway is now closed to southbound traffic between Esmonde Rd and Fanshawe St. Hundreds of people gathered at Onepoto Domain at the northern end of the bridge and have now set out towards the bridge. Māori Wardens told RNZ they are escorting the protesters for safety reasons. The march has been organised by Destiny Church's Freedoms and Rights Coalition. Anti-mandate protesters in Auckland. Photo: RNZ In a statement, police said the safety of staff, road users and protesters was the priority. They will be actively engaging with the protesters to prevent them crossing the bridge due to [...]
Ukraine fights for its survival as Putin presses forward
Ukraine leaders warn world to wake up to Russian threat as west promises to make Putin international pariah World leaders warn Moscow has embarked on a dangerous new era of imperial expansion.Photograph: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Ukraine was fighting for its survival after Vladimir Putin unleashed a punishing offensive on the country that left hundreds dead or injured, and world leaders warned that Moscow had embarked on a dangerous new era of imperial expansion. The continent awoke to the shock of scenes it once believed it had left in the 20th century: helicopters strafing homes outside the capital, long lines of tanks ploughing ever deeper towards Ukraine’s heartland, roads choked with refugees, and civilians huddled in underground stations to escape bombardment. The west scrambled to respond with a range of [...]
PH May 2022 Elections: If she wins, Sara Duterte vows fair enforcement of war on drugs and crime
Batangas City, Philippines — Should Bongbong Marcos and Sara Duterte win in the upcoming May elections, expect President Rodrigo Duterte’s war against illegal drugs and crime to continue in the next six years. The presidential daughter, however, said she is looking at implementing her father’s trademark program in a different way. “Ang gagawin natin is kung ano ‘yung ginawa natin doon sa Davao City. I-emphasize natin sa ating mga law enforcement agencies particularly sa ating mga kapulisan, sa Philippine National Police (PNP) natin, na ang unang-unang trabaho nila, isang pantay-pantay na enforcement ng ating batas,” the vice presidential candidate said in an interview with journalists in Batangas City Tuesday. [Translation: We will do what we did in Davao City. We will emphasize to our law enforcement agencies, particularly to the [...]
PH Covid-19 Update: Mayors vote to downgrade Metro Manila to Alert Level 1 for March
Metro Manila, Philippines — The local chief executives in Metro Manila unanimously voted to downgrade the capital region to Alert Level 1 starting March 1, Metro Manila Council chairperson and Parañaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez confirmed to CNN Philippines on Wednesday. The recommendation will be sent to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, which will issue the final decision. The mayors met on Tuesday night to come up with a recommendation for the next alert level status in the capital region. Health Secretary Francisco Duque III earlier said Alert Level 1 — the lowest classification — will likely be considered as the "new normal" scenario until the state of public health emergency is lifted in the country. He also said the public must still continue [...]
Covid-19 update: Record 3297 new community cases reported in New Zealand today
Today there are 3297 new cases of Covid-19 in the community in New Zealand today, the Ministry of Health has confirmed. File image. Photo: 123RF In today's statement, the Ministry said there were 179 people in hospital with the coronavirus, with one in intensive care. It said 1729 of the new cases were in the Auckland DHBs, with the rest in the Northland (40), Waikato (297), Bay of Plenty (157), Lakes (54), Hawke's Bay (18), MidCentral (56), Whanganui (5), Taranaki (30), Tairāwhiti (16), Wairarapa (16), Capital and Coast (123), Hutt Valley (28), Nelson Marlborough (85), Canterbury (176), South Canterbury (7), Southern (455) and West Coast (3) DHBs. There were also eight new cases in managed isolation today. Yesterday the Ministry of Health reported 2846 Covid-19 cases in the [...]
PH May 2022 Elections: Bongbong, Sara top Publicus poll
Presidential aspirant Ferdinand "Bong bong" Marcos Jr., with Manila Mayoral candidate Alex Lopez, waves to the crowd during a campaign motorcade that started at Parola, Tondo, Manila, on 20 February 2022. (PHOTO: MIKE ALQUINTO) PHILIPPINES— Presidential candidate Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and his running mate Sara Duterte-Carpio topped the National Election Tracker Survey of Publicus Asia conducted on February 11 to 16. Fifty-two percent of the survey respondents picked Marcos as their choice for president, giving him a 30 percentage points lead over second-placer Vice President Maria Leonor "Leni" Robredo. Compared to Publicus' survey in December 2021, there was no change in voter preference for Marcos, while Robredo moved up by 2 percent. Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso had 9 percent, followed by Senators Panfilo "Ping" Lacson and [...]
Australia fully reopens borders shut by COVID-19 pandemic, welcomes back tourists
A man hugs his granddaughter upon arriving at Sydney International Airport on Feb 21, 2022, as Australia reopened its borders for fully vaccinated visa holders, tourists and business travellers. (Photo: AFP/SAEED KHAN) SYDNEY— Australia on Monday (Feb 21) fully reopened its international borders to travellers vaccinated against the coronavirus after nearly two years of pandemic-related closings as tourists returned and hundreds of people were reunited with family and friends. More than 50 international flights will reach the country throughout the day, including 27 touching down in Sydney, its largest city, as the tourism and hospitality sectors look to rebuild after getting hammered by COVID-19 restrictions. "It is a very exciting day, one that I have been looking forward to for a long time, from the day that I first [...]
Covid-19 update: 2846 community cases today, 143 people in hospital
There are 2846 Covid-19 cases in the community today and 143 people in hospital with the virus, the Ministry of Health reports. Photo: 123RF In a statement, the ministry said one of the people in hospital was in intensive care or a high dependency unit. The average age of the current hospitalisations is 56. Of the new cases today, 36 were in Northland, 1802 in Auckland, 285 in Waikato, 86 in Bay of Plenty, 19 in Lakes, 25 in Hawke's Bay, 25 in MidCentral, 19 in Whanganui, 26 in Taranaki, 17 in Tairāwhiti, two in Wairarapa, 84 in Capital and Coast, 25 in Hutt Valley, 77 in Nelson Marlborough, 105 in Canterbury, four in South Canterbury and 206 in the Southern DHB. There were also 15 new cases [...]
UN Security Council to meet urgently on Ukraine crisis
People wave Russian national flags celebrating the recognizing the independence in the center of Donetsk, the territory controlled by pro-Russian militants, eastern Ukraine, late Monday, Feb. 21, 2022. In a fast-moving political theater, Russian President Vladimir Putin has moved quickly to recognize the independence of separatist regions in eastern Ukraine in a show of defiance against the West amid fears of Russian invasion in Ukraine. (AP Photo/Alexei Alexandrov) MOSCOW (AP) — The U.N. Security Council will hold an emergency meeting Monday night after Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized the independence of separatist regions in eastern Ukraine and ordered Russian troops to “maintain the peace” there. The meeting comes at the request of Ukraine, the United States and six other countries. Russia, which currently holds the rotating council presidency, [...]
PH aims to vaccinate 80% of vulnerable population before shift to Alert Level 1
Metro Manila— The government aims to vaccinate 80% of the vulnerable population against COVID-19 before the country eases to Alert Level 1. In a televised briefing Monday night, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said the recommendation is from presidential adviser for COVID-19 response Vince Dizon. "Bago ma-de-escalate to Alert Level 1, kinakailangang 80% [ang vaccination rate] ng atingA2 and A3... At kung hindi po sila makarating sa panukatan na 'yan ay hindi tayo puwedeng ibaba," he said. [Translation: Before we de-escalate the country to Alert Level 1, the vaccination rate of the A2 and A3 groups should be 80%. If they will not reach this, then we cannot de-escalate.] The vaccination rate is also a good metric to use when deciding which areas are ready to shift to Alert [...]
Three cops hospitalised after substance thrown by protesters
Three police have been admitted to hospital after a substance was thrown at them by protesters outside Parliament. Assistant Commissioner Richard Chambers. (Source: 1News) Assistant Commissioner Richard Chambers was unable to confirm what the substance was. It happened on Tuesday morning after a confrontation with police around some of the streets outside Parliament. "Three of our police staff have been admitted to hospital... with a substance that was thrown at them from the protest group," Chambers said. He said police were using shields as they were "aware members in the protest group were determined to again throw human faeces at our police staff". Chambers was asked how many police had faeces thrown at them but he was unable to answer. Chambers said some of the protesters' actions were "disgraceful [...]
Australia hugs nature, shuts biggest coal plant
Origin Energy said the 2.88 gigawatt Eraring power plant was unable to compete with the ‘influx of renewables’ © AFP via Getty Images SYDNEY— Australia's largest coal-fired power plant, and also among the world's biggest, will shut in 2025 — several years sooner than planned — operators announced Thursday, saying the facility is no longer viable given the low cost of renewables. Observers see the move as the country's call for a more nature-friendly gesture in serving the power needs of its citizens. Origin Energy told investors that the "influx of renewables" was "undermining the economics" of the vast Eraring plant just north of Sydney. The plant currently includes four 720-megawatt coal-fired generators and one 42-megawatt diesel generator, supplying Australia's most populous state New South Wales with [...]
How the United States views New Zealand as Indo-Pacific faces ‘urgent challenges’
New Zealand's partnership with the United States is "vitally important" and has seen "tremendous growth" over the last decade, a top US official says, as the superpower attempts to strengthen its position within the Indo-Pacific. The US late last week released its Indo-Pacific Strategy, detailing its intent to modernise its relationships in the region, which it says is facing "urgent challenges" such as the growing influence of China, climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. They're challenges New Zealand is familiar with. In regards to China, New Zealand's Ministry of Defence last December released a report warning the Asian nation is "the major driver of geopolitical change" and "China views an increased presence in the Pacific as part of its natural progression towards its global goals". The US document says [...]
Taupō wins most beautiful large town title
LOVETAUPO.COM - Beautiful Taupō. Taupō has been named the most beautiful large town in the country for the second time in four years at the annual Keep New Zealand Beautiful Awards. The awards were held online on Thursday and are Aotearoa's longest-running sustainability awards and provide a benchmark for environmental excellence. Mayor David Trewavas accepted the award via video link and said winning the prestigious title again was testament to Taupō's great community spirit. "As a council, we are proud of the amount of work we do and the partnership approach we take with our schools, businesses and volunteer groups like Tidy Taupō and Greening Taupō, to protect and enhance our town,” he said. Taupō: The North Island's most underrated town. This little town of just 30,000 [...]
First woman reported cured of HIV after stem cell transplant
A girl lights lamps during an HIV/Aids awareness campaign on the occasion of World Aids Day, in India, on Dec 1, 2021. PHOTO: REUTERS CHICAGO— A US patient with leukaemia has become the first woman and the third person to date to be cured of HIV after receiving a stem cell transplant from a donor who was naturally resistant to the virus that causes Aids, researchers reported on Tuesday (Feb 15). The case of a 64-year-old woman of mixed race, presented at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunisitic Infections in Denver, is also the first involving umbilical cord blood, a newer approach that may make the treatment available to more people. Since receiving the cord blood to treat her acute myeloid leukemia – a cancer that starts in blood-forming [...]
Migrant doctors lured overseas as immigration woes mount
Consultants are among an exodus of medical staff from New Zealand to countries whose immigration policies are more attractive. Photo: 123RF One of the sticking points is the parent category - the government has reiterated that no decision has been made on when the programme will re-start, but said it was not part of the border re-opening plan. One specialist has an offer from an Australian hospital almost tripling his salary and with a sign-on bonus of $300,000. He will leave to take the job in April, but says he will stay if the government agrees to re-start the process of accepting migrants' parents as residents. The specialist, who is a New Zealand citizen and UK-trained, said his father, who is in his 80s, is staying with him and [...]
PM says Parliament occupation ‘no longer a protest’
The occupation on Parliament's lawn and the surrounding streets "is no longer a protest", says Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern as the stand-off with police stretches into its tenth day. Hundreds have set up camp for over a week, with stalls and food areas set up. On Thursday threats and accusations were still written in chalk all around Parliament buildings, slurs were displayed from some vehicles, while some protesters continued to spread misinformation over loudspeakers. New signs had been erected on the edge of the protest apologising to people who have been abused on their way to work. "Protest is not illegal in New Zealand," Jacinda Ardern said from Rotorua. "Building camps on the lawn of Parliament, obstructing the ability of young people to go to school, of workers to [...]
Australia intends to list Hamas as terrorist organisation
FILE PHOTO: Australian Minister for Home Affairs Karen Andrews at the US Department of Justice in Washington, December 15, 2021. (Photo: Leigh Vogel/Pool via REUTERS) SYDNEY— The Australian government intends to list the entirety of Palestinian militant group Hamas as a terrorist organisation under the country's criminal code, Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews said on Thursday (Feb 17). A listing by Australia of the whole group, rather than just its military arm as at present, would bring its stance in line with the United States, the European Union and Britain. "The views of Hamas and the violent extremist groups listed today are deeply disturbing, and there is no place in Australia for their hateful ideologies," Andrews said in a statement. Andrews said she had written to Australia's state and [...]
Hong Kong’s COVID-19 fight intensifies as cases multiply by 60 times
Hong Kong's healthcare system is buckling under an Omicron-fuelled COVID-19 wave. (File photo: AFP/Peter Parks) HONG KONG— Hong Kong's COVID-19 battle intensified on Thursday (Feb 17) as authorities reported new cases had multiplied by 60 times so far this month and media reported that testing would become compulsory for everyone in the global financial hub from March. Hospitals are overwhelmed with some patients, including elderly, left lying on beds outside in chilly, sometimes rainy weather, in shocking scenes that prompted an apology from the authorities. Schools, gyms cinemas and most public venues are shut. Many office employees work from home. But, many residents are fatigued by the harsh restrictions imposed to protect them against the pandemic, even as most other major cities in the world adjust to living with [...]
Filipinos want strong, honest leaders – poll
PHILIPPINES— A pre-election survey conducted by the group Boses, Opinyon, Siyasat at Siyensya para sa Pilipinas (Boses Pilipinas) revealed that Filipinos desire leaders that are strong, honest and intelligent. Sixty-nine percent of the respondents said they prefer candidates who could provide strong leadership, 55 percent said it is important for candidates to be honest while 42 percent said intelligence is crucial to a candidate. Meanwhile, 37 percent of the respondents said they prefer candidates who get things done, 33 percent said they want morally upright candidates while 19 percent said they want compassionate candidates. Boses Pilipinas convenor Dr. Imelda Deinla said the results could help Filipinos evaluate their candidates. "With all the noise in media and social media platforms — as well as the highly curated portrayal of the [...]
Two New Zealanders into Olympic freeski final
The Porteous brothers, Nico and Miguel, have both qualified for the final of the men's freeski halfpipe in the Beijing Olympics. New Zealand's Nico Porteous practices before the start of the freestyle skiing men's freeski halfpipe qualification run during the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games on February 17, 2022. Photo: AFP / Marco Bertorello Nico Porteous, who won bronze in the 2018 Games as a 16-year-old, nailed his second jump to score 90.50 and place second overall. His older brother, Miguel Porteous, had a brilliant first run to come ninth with a score of 81.00. However, fellow New Zealanders Gustav Legnavsky and Ben Harrington failed to join them in Saturday's final. Harrington was particularly unlucky, finishing 13th. Despite having a good first run, he crashed on his second [...]
Protesters’ vehicle blockade remains on 10th day of occupation
Police have pulled back on their plans to begin towing vehicles illegally parked around the anti-vaccine, anti-mandate protest on the Grounds of Parliament. Police outside the Parliament protest on 17 February 2022. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver Yesterday, police estimated more than 400 cars, vans and campervans remained ensconsed in several streets alongside Parliament. Despite previous ultimatums, protesters showed little sign of voluntarily removing their vehicles today. In a statement, police said they now had access to significantly more tow trucks to remove illegally parked vehicles but they were concentrating on engaging with protest leaders. Protesters' vehicles and camps are blocking Wellington streets. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver Police said they were exercising "careful judgement" about when to start the towing process. "Having observed the response from protesters [...]
Police Commissioner gives ultimatum to protesters outside Parliament
Police is putting into action its Major Operations Centre at the headquarters in the capital in a bid to quell protesters "unreasonably impacting the city". Police are moving to clear the roads outside and near Parliament as protesters continue to occupy the area for the eighth day. Photo: RNZ About 1000 people are outside the Beehive today, protesting against a range of the government's Covid-19 measures. It is the eighth day of the occupation, which has been inspired by similar movements overseas. Nearly 200 parking tickets were handed out to the protesters at Parliament, with wardens out this afternoon ticketing vehicles blocking roads and illegally parked near the protest. But only one of the 180 issued before today has actually been paid. While protesters have been given free [...]
Over 300 Filipinos in Ukraine urged to evacuate
Department of Foreign Affairs building. (File photo from the Philippine Daily Inquirer) MANILA, Philippines — Over 300 Filipinos in Ukraine were urged to leave the country temporarily amid the threat of an invasion by Russia. Agusan del Norte Rep. Lawrence Fortun made the call after the Department of Foreign Affairs said it was monitoring the tension between Ukraine and Russia. Fortun called on the government to ensure the safety of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Ukraine and neighboring countries such as Belarus, Poland and Moldova. “Filipinos can either secure in place and care about their Ukrainian employers and friends, or temporarily evacuate the countries just outside of Ukraine through commercial rail and airlines,” Fortun said in a statement on Saturday. He also urged OFWs in countries adjacent to [...]
Wild weather causes slips, power cuts, transport disruption in some parts of New Zealand
Ex-cyclone Dovi. (Source: Niwa ) What you need to know: - Flights have been cancelled - Auckland Harbour Bridge is closed due to high winds - Slips and flooding in parts of the North Island 12:55pm Photos show slips created by the adverse weather in Melling. A slip near State Highway 2 in Melling. (Source: Civil Defence) 12:47pm New photos posted by Civil Defence on Twitter shows earlier flooding at the Plimmerton roundabout. Flooding at a roundabout on State Highway 59 northbound at Plimmerton. (Source: Civil Defence) 12:35pm Network infrastructure provider Chorus’ website is showing significant disruption to copper phone and internet services in parts of Northland. Meanwhile, Spark says mobile customers in some towns in the area may have lost phone, text and data services. Spark outage [...]
US announces deeper engagement strategy to match China in the Pacific
The United States insists it is a Pacific nation and has unveiled a raft of new strategies to better engage with other nations in the Region. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (L) attends a meeting with Fijian acting Prime Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum (R) in Nadi, Fiji, on February 12, 2022. Photo: Leon LORD / AFP) United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken is the first Secretary of State to visit Fiji in nearly 37 years. During his historic visit, Blinken announced that the United States was pursuing deeper engagement plans with Pacific nations. A key element and motivation for those plans is the strengthening of the US presence to match the growing influence of China in the Pacific. In its engagement strategy, he said that China has [...]
Covid-19 protest at NZ Parliament enters sixth day
The number of protestors joining the crowd at the anti-mandate demonstration is steadily growing, after a subdued start to the day. More people joined the protest yesterday, taking numbers up to about 1000, but rain last night drove numbers down to about 500. Photo: RNZ Hundreds of people are on the parliament lawn, though some have been driven away by the heavy rain and winds lashing the capital. A cheer erupts from the crowd each time a sudden and forceful gust of wind and downpour of rain blasts the demonstration. The playlist booming through parliament's loudspeakers changed about 11, and now includes a out of tune recorder rendition of 'My Heart Will Go On', the Titanic theme song by Celine Dion. UK musician James Blunt earlier posted on [...]
Metro Manila now at low risk for COVID-19 transmission – OCTA
Metro Manila skyline at night. As of Feb. 9, 2022, key coronavirus figures in the National Capital Region have gone down, according to Dr. Guido David, OCTA Research fellow. (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / JILSON SECKLER TIU) MANILA, Philippines — Metro Manila is now at low risk for COVID-19 transmission as its reproduction number and other key coronavirus figures have decreased recently, Dr. Guido David, an OCTA Research fellow, said in a Twitter post on Wednesday. “As predicted two weeks ago, NCR improves to low risk as of February 9,” David said in his tweet. By Wednesday, Metro Manila’s reproduction decreased from the previous week’s 0.41 to 0.25, its positivity rate from 15 percent to 9.1 percent, its average daily attack rate (ADAE) from 17.83 to 6.67. ADAR refers [...]
Belarus military drills to begin as Russia ratchets up Ukraine tensions
Satellite imagery shows much Russian hardware has been moved to locations close to Ukraine border Russian and Belarusian troops at a joint combat training exercise last week. Photograph: MOD/EyePress/Rex/Shutterstock Russia and Belarus will begin 10 days of joint military drills on Thursday, setting in train one of the most overtly threatening elements of the Kremlin’s buildup of forces around Ukraine’s borders. Valery Gerasimov, the head of the Russian general staff, arrived in Belarus on Wednesday to oversee the drills. Russia has moved up to 30,000 troops, two battalions of S-400 surface-to-air missile systems and numerous fighter jets into Belarus for joint training exercises with the Belarusian army. Satellite imagery shows much of the hardware has been moved to locations close to the border with Ukraine. The Russian president, Vladimir [...]
Covid-19 update: Record 306 new community cases in New Zealand today
There are 306 new community cases of Covid-19 in New Zealand today - a new record high - with 216 cases in Auckland alone. Photo: SCIENCE PHOTO LI / DDJ / Science Photo Library via AFP In a statement, the Ministry of Health said the new community cases were in Northland (12), Auckland (216), Waikato (48), Tairāwhiti (4), Bay of Plenty (7), Lakes (6), MidCentral (2), Taranaki (5), Hutt Valley (3) and Capital and Coast (3). There are 12 cases in hospital in Auckland, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty and Christchurch. None of them in ICU The Ministry said there were 30 cases in MIQ, with travellers arriving from UAE, Australia, Fiji, India, Lebanon, Malaysia, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea and Qatar. There were 204 community cases reported in New [...]
Anti-mandate protesters camp outside Parliament for second night
Anti-vaccine mandate protesters have camped outside Parliament for the second night in a row. Police remain on guard outside Parliament as anti-mandate protesters camp out for a second night. (Source: 1News) They remain despite things turning sour on Wednesday, with arrests made after some protesters allegedly attempted to push past a line of officers and enter Parliament. The three arrests came shortly after 3pm in the second day of protests, which had been previously peaceful, when tensions escalated into aggressive behaviour by some. Police said the behaviour was "extremely disappointing". The three people have been charged with obstruction and have been trespassed from Parliament grounds. They have been bailed and are due to appear in the Wellington District Court on Monday. On Thursday morning, there are a quite [...]
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern tells anti-vaccine mandate protesters outside Parliament to ‘move on’
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has told anti-vaccine mandate protesters outside Parliament to 'move on'. Photo: RNZ / Nick Munro She spoke after visiting a Covid-19 vaccination centre in Albany, Auckland. At Parliament grounds, well over a dozen people have been arrested in efforts to remove anti-vaccine mandate protesters who have been occupying the precinct. More than 100 extra officers have been called in, including from other districts. Ardern says it's ultimately an operational matter for police. "Obviously every New Zealander has a right to protest, but there are also rules around what is able to happen on Parliament's forecourt and of course we would expect that people have behaviours that don't disrupt the ability of others to go on with their lives as well." She says she thinks [...]
Malaysia’s National Recovery Council agrees to fully reopen borders without quarantine by March
Malaysia's National Recovery Council chairman Muhyiddin Yassin. (Photo: Facebook/Muhyiddin Yassin) KUALA LUMPUR— Malaysia’s National Recovery Council (NRC) has agreed to fully open the country’s borders by March to support the country’s economic recovery. NRC chairman Muhyiddin Yassin told a press conference on Tuesday (Feb 8) that it agreed to full opening of the borders as early as Mar 1 without the need for mandatory quarantine. “However, COVID-19 testing before departure and upon arrival at the border has to be done according to the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) recommendations. “The opening of national borders needs to be implemented in a planned manner and based on current risk assessments,” he said after chairing the NRC meeting. Mr Muhyiddin added that the MOH would announce the full details on the requirements and [...]
PH May 2022 Elections: Fight for Palace seat starts on festive note
MANILA, Philippines — There were balloons, campaign T-shirts, rhythmic chanting, posters galore, hand signs, party colors — the festive features of Philippine elections — plus promises to lift the country out of the misery caused by the pandemic and its crippling effects on the national economy. And so, the candidates seeking the highest office in the land, and their running mates, launched their official three-month campaigns on Tuesday following adhoc vote-getting since even before they filed their certificates of candidacy in October last year. At the cavernous Philippine Arena in Bulacan, the martial law-era anthem “Bagong Pagsilang” was sung by a band onstage at the proclamation rally of presidential aspirant Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his vice presidential candidate, first daughter Sara Duterte. After the singing, an ebullient Toni [...]
Italian woman found dead seated at table in mummified state
Discovery of 70-year-old’s remains years after she died prompts calls for better care for older people in Italy Police stumbled upon Marinella Beretta’s remains when they made a house call during high winds in Lombardy. Photograph: barbacane/Alamy Italian police have discovered the mummified remains of a 70-year-old woman sitting at a table more than two years after she died, prompting calls for better care for older people in the country. Marinella Beretta, who had no living relatives, was found in her house in Prestino near Lake Como in northern Italy. Police stumbled upon her remains when they made a house call during high winds in Lombardy, which risked uprooting neglected trees in her garden. She had not been seen by neighbours for at least two and a half [...]
Canadian truckers block main bridge to US as Trudeau demands end to protest
Trucks block Ambassador Bridge linking cities of Detroit and Windsor, where 8,000 trucks normally cross each day Trucks backed up on the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit on Monday. Photograph: Daniel Mears/AP Traffic has ground to a halt at the busiest border crossing in North America, as Canadian truckers and others angry with vaccine mandates spread their protest beyond Ottawa. Trucks started blocking the Ambassador Bridge linking the cities of Detroit and Windsor late on Monday, closing down traffic in both directions. On Tuesday, entry to Canada remained blocked while US-bound traffic slowed to a crawl. Each day, 8,000 trucks normally cross the bridge, which handles about 27% of trade between Canada and the US. Protesters also targeted another major border crossing in Coutts, Alberta. Canada’s capital city remained blockaded [...]
National wants Auckland regional fuel tax scrapped
National leader Christopher Luxon says taxes such as the Auckland regional fuel tax could be removed in order to help Kiwis at the pump. Christopher Luxon. (Source: Getty) The price for 95 topped $3 a litre at some Auckland stations over Waitangi weekend, with prices very close to that mark in Wellington. The Motor Trade Association has said not to blame retailers for rising costs, explaining 52 per cent of the cost consists of taxes such as fuel excise duty, Emission Trading Scheme levy and GST. Thirty-seven per cent is made up of production and shipping costs, with the remaining 10.6 per cent as the wholesaler and retailer margin. Luxon told Breakfast on Wednesday the Auckland regional fuel tax had raised more than $500 million since it began [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 204 new community cases reported today
There are 204 new community cases of Covid-19 in New Zealand today. (File image) Photo: 123RF In a statement, the Ministry of Health said the new community cases were in Northland (8), Auckland (135), Waikato (35), Rotorua (1), Taupō (1), Bay of Plenty (11),Taranaki (1), Palmerston North (2) Wellington (3), Hutt Valley (3), Nelson Marlborough (1), Canterbury (3) There are 16 cases in hospital, although none are in ICU. A Flourish data visualization The ministry said there were 46 cases in MIQ reported yesterday, with travellers arriving from India, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Pakistan, UK, Australia, Fiji, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, France, USA and the Philippines. There were 202 new community cases and 63 in MIQ reported yesterday. There have now been 18,126 cases of Covid-19 in New Zealand since [...]
DILG chief opposes ‘no booster card, no entry’ proposal: The economy will suffer
DILG Secretary Eduardo Año (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO) MANILA, Philippines — The country’s economy will suffer if the “no booster card, no entry” proposal is implemented, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said Monday, noting that over half a million individuals in Metro Manila remain unvaccinated against COVID-19. Año said that the government is prioritizing the immunization for primary series or the first doses and second doses. “Sa ngayon hindi pa ‘yan napapanahon. Ang ating priority pa rin—although nag-booster na tayo ng mga fully vaccinated—ang ating primary priority, mag-vaccinate pa rin ng primary series,” Año said on TeleRadyo’s Sakto. (As of now, it is not yet time. Our priority—although we boosted the fully vaccinated—our primary priority is to administer the primary series.) “At isa pa sa Metro Manila, 2.6 million pa [...]
Russian attack on Ukraine possible ‘any day’ but diplomacy still an option: White House
A service member of the Ukrainian armed forces walks in a trench at combat positions near the line of separation from Russian-backed rebels outside the settlement of Zaitseve in the Donetsk region, Ukraine, on Feb 5, 2022. (Photo: REUTERS/Oleksandr Klymenko) WASHINGTON— Russian President Vladimir Putin could order an attack on Ukraine within days or weeks, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan warned on Sunday (Feb 6), as Washington and its European allies continued efforts to offer Putin a diplomatic way out of the crisis. "We are in the window. Any day now, Russia could take military action against Ukraine, or it could be a couple of weeks from now, or Russia could choose to take the diplomatic path instead," Sullivan told the Fox News Sunday programme. Sullivan made [...]
NZ marks Queen’s platinum jubilee with 21 gun salute
New Zealand has marked the Queen's platinum jubilee with a 21 gun salute in Wellington on Monday. The anniversary falls on 6 February, however gun salutes are not conducted on Sunday so this year it took place on Monday. The gun salutes were fired by personnel from the 16th Field Regiment, Royal New Zealand Artillery, based at Linton Military Camp. The salute was conducted from the Saluting Battery at Point Jerningham - the only permanent saluting battery in New Zealand - using four 25-pound guns. The salute in Wellington comes after Sunday dawned in Britain, where the Queen remembered the past and sought to cement the future of the monarchy as the United Kingdom marked the 70th anniversary of her rule. In remarks delivered in time for Sunday morning’s [...]
188 community cases in New Zealand on Monday
There are 188 new community Covid-19 cases to report on Monday. Health workers at a Covid-19 testing station in Auckland. (Source: Getty) The cases are in Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Tairāwhiti, Lakes, Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, Mid Central, Hutt Valley and Canterbury. Four cases are in hospital with the virus, with one in ICU or HDU, the ministry said. Auckland has 117 new cases, with health officials supporting 2,495 people in the region to isolate at home, including 997 cases. There were 16 new cases in Northland on Monday, seven of which were first announced in Sunday's update. Of the nine remaining cases, six are in Kerikeri and three are in Whangārei. The nine cases are under investigation to determine whether they are linked to existing cases. In [...]
Reports outline plan to improve NZ cancer prevention, treatment
Two major cancer reports have outlined a plan to improve prevention and treatment of the disease in New Zealand. Pūrongo Ārai Mate Pukupuku, the Cancer Prevention Report, from Te Aho o Te Kahu, the Cancer Control Agency, focuses on recommendations for addressing risk factors including tobacco; alcohol; poor nutrition and excess body weight; a lack of physical activity; excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation; and chronic infections. Around 25,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year and Te Aho o Te Kahu said up to half of these could be prevented through improved prevention measures. Approximately 10,600 Kiwis die each year from cancer. The report states if all risks are addressed through prevention measures, 4400 fewer people could die. “If we look at tobacco, for example, something like one in [...]
Philippine Presidential candidates pitch platforms, plans and programs
A peek into the minds of the contending aspirants for the highest post in the land as the election campaign period officially begins next week Presidential candidates in the May 2022 polls attend the presidential forum organized by the KBP. Screenshot from the forum. De Guzman: Land reform will end insurgency Labor leader and presidential aspirant Leody de Guzman plans to end the country’s 53-year-old communist insurgency by implementing a “proper and broad-based” land reform program. “My solution is to respond to the demands of the [New People’s Army (NPA)] as stipulated in their documents. Their demand for true land reform is only just,” the labor leader said when asked on how he plans to end the communist insurgency during the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) presidential [...]
Republican party calls January 6 attack ‘legitimate political discourse’
Party censures Cheney and Kinzinger, the only Republicans on the Capitol attack House panel, as Pence says ‘Trump is wrong’ A mob climbs through a window they broke at the US Capitol during the January 6 attack.Photograph: Leah Millis/Reuters In an extraordinary move, the Republican party officially said Donald Trump’s attempt to overturn his 2020 election defeat and the deadly attack on the US Capitol were “legitimate political discourse”. A leading Democrat on the House committee investigating the January 6 insurrection said historians would be “aghast”. The move by the Republican National Committee (RNC) came at its winter meetings in Salt Lake City on Friday, as part of the formal censure of Liz Cheney of Wyoming and Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, the only Republicans on the January 6 panel. [...]
Winter Olympics officially open
Chinese President Xi Jinping declared the opening of the Beijing Winter Games, triggering a burst of fireworks that marked the start of an Olympics whose preparations were beset by the Covid-19 pandemic and criticism over human rights in China. Photo: IOC/Greg Martin The ceremony in a partially-filled Bird's Nest stadium - the scene of Beijing's triumphant 2008 Summer Games launch - was filled with imagery of ice and snow, with Xi's declaration followed by red-suited "skaters" sliding across virtual ice. Held on the first day of Spring by the Chinese calendar, it began with a performance by dancers waving glowing green stalks to convey the vitality of the season, followed by an explosion of white and green fireworks that spelled the word "Spring". On a three-dimensional cube resembling [...]
More Covid vaccines for Samoa and Tonga from NZ
New Zealand has donated additional Pfizer vaccines to Tonga and Samoa. The Foreign Minister, Nanaia Mahuta, said Aotearoa New Zealand is donating an additional 9,300 doses of the Pfizer vaccine to Tonga, and 10,000 doses to Samoa, She said it is part of this country's ongoing commitment to global vaccination efforts and to support vaccine rollout in the Pacific. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone This donation brings New Zealand's total vaccine donations to over 47,000 for Tonga and 94,000 for Samoa. The Associate Health Minister Aupito William Sio said the vaccines will enable frontline workers and vulnerable populations to access a booster as early as possible,. The foreign minister said with Tonga in lockdown and Covid detected at the border in Samoa, "ensuring populations are boosted will play [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: New record number of 243 new daily cases in the community today
New Zealand has recorded the highest number of community cases in one day, with 243 new cases reported today. Photo: 123rf.com The previous highest number of cases reported in one day was 222 during the Delta outbreak in November. In a statement, the Health Ministry said the continued increase in cases today is "a reminder that, as expected, the Omicron variant is spreading in our communities as we have seen in other countries". The ministry said getting a booster dose as soon as it is due was one of the best steps to take. "Boosters lower your chances of getting very sick and being hospitalised. Being boosted also helps slow the spread of the virus. If you're over 18 and your booster is due, please get it now." [...]
PH Gov’t pursues holistic livestock industry development to help keep prices stable— NEDA
The Philippine government continues to strengthen its policies to support the livestock industry and reduce food prices, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said. As reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) today, the country’s headline inflation rate continued its downward trend as it further eased to 3.0 percent in January 2022 from 3.2 percent in December 2021. Non-food inflation slightly declined to 3.8 percent in January from 3.9 percent in December. Meanwhile, food inflation remained at 1.6 percent in January, as the slower inflation in meat was offset by the faster inflation in corn. Meat inflation fell to 4.3 percent in January from 8.7 percent in December, as inflation for all meat products decreased. In particular, pork inflation decreased to 6.2 percent from 10.8 percent. On the [...]
Johnson under pressure as more Tory MPs call for him to go
Gary Streeter, Tobias Ellwood and Anthony Mangnall all make moves on Wednesday in sign of rising anger At least 54 letters would be required to trigger a vote among Tory MPs on Johnson’s future.Photograph: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images A fresh wave of Conservative MPs have submitted letters of no confidence in Boris Johnson, breaking cover to criticise the prime minister as the fallout from Downing Street parties scandal continued to imperil his premiership. In a sign that Johnson’s position is still under threat despite No 10’s desperate attempts to move on from the crisis, three more MPs publicly called on the prime minister to resign, describing their shock and anger at Johnson’s conduct since the publication of the interim report. The Guardian has been told of one other backbench MP [...]
Ottawa police considering military intervention to end ‘unlawful’ blockad
Authorities also warned brining in the military carried a ‘massive risk’ as they believed the protesters are armed Dozens of tractor trailers are refusing to leave the highway near Coutts, Alberta, where drivers are protesting mask mandates, vaccines, and other Covid-19 restrictions. Photograph: Jeff McIntosh/AP CANADA— Police in Ottawa warned they may have to call in the military to disband “unlawful” protests in the nation’s capital and a town near the US border, amid mounting tensions between protesters opposing Covid restrictions and local residents. The Ottawa police chief, Peter Sloly, warned on Wednesday that the officers did not have the resources to remove a fleet of trucks parked by the protesters in the national capital, adding the city was considering requesting help from Canadian armed forces. But he warned [...]
Robredo not open to unification talks with Marcos
Metro Manila, Philippines— Vice President Leni Robredo is not opening her doors for a possible unification with rival former senator Bongbong Marcos amid the latter's refusal to admit his crime and the atrocities committed under his father's regime. According to the presidential hopeful, discussions about unification should always be "based on justice." "Alam natin na mayroon pa siyang hindi pinapanagutan na mga ginawa niya, na mahirap makipagsundo dahil una walang pagtanggap," Robredo said when the topic of reconciliation cropped up during an interview with DZRH. "Itong klase ng pamamahala na nire-represent niya, hindi ito 'yung klase ng pulitika at pamamahala na makakabuti sa bansa," Robredo also said. [Translation: We know he has yet to admit the things he has committed, making it difficult to reconcile because, firstly, there is [...]
PH mortality rate in 2021 highest in 63 years; COVID, heart attack leading causes of death — POPCOM
The Philippines has registered its highest mortality rate in 63 years in 2021, with more than 760,000 deaths recorded mostly due to coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and heart attacks, the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) said. (FILE PHOTO) Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), POPCOM said a total of 768,504 deaths have been registered across the country in the first 11 months of 2021—translating to a mortality rate of 6.98 per thousand. POPCOM’s report showed that ischemic heart disease is the leading cause of death in 2021 which killed 110,332 Filipinos from January to October 2021, higher than the 86,164 in the previous year. This was followed by COVID-19 which was tagged as the underlying cause of death for 75,285 Filipinos last year, up from [...]
Tokyo’s daily COVID-19 infections exceed 20,000 for first time
People wearing protective face masks are seen in Tokyo, Japan on Feb 1, 2022. (Photo: Reuters/Issei Kato) TOKYO— New COVID-19 cases in Tokyo exceeded 20,000 for the first time on Wednesday (Feb 2), dimming hopes that a wave of infections fuelled by the Omicron variant is peaking in Japan. Nationwide cases reached a record 91,760, while 18 prefectures recorded all-time highs, according to a tally by online news service JX Press. Tokyo reported 21,576 new cases, surpassing the previous record of 17,631 in the Japanese capital on Friday. The closely watched usage rate of hospital beds reserved for COVID-19 patients edged up to 51.4 per cent. Officials previously said that a state of emergency would be needed if the rate reached 50 per cent, but now say the decision [...]
New Zealand to stay closed to foreigners until October
FILE PHOTO: A photo taken on Aug 9, 2021 shows an Air New Zealand plane taking off from Auckland Airport. (AFP/William West) AUCKLAND— New Zealand will not fully reopen its borders until October, as it cautiously dismantles some of the world's toughest pandemic border restrictions, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Thursday (Feb 3). Ardern announced a five-step plan to reconnect New Zealand to the rest of the world, beginning with waiving hotel quarantine requirements for Kiwis stranded overseas by the pandemic. She said New Zealanders in Australia could return home and self-isolate, rather than going into quarantine, from Feb 27, followed two weeks later by Kiwis elsewhere in the world. The border quarantine regime will then be progressively relaxed to allow in other groups such as skilled migrants, international [...]
Fines up to $12k for isolation breaches when border opens
Fines up to $12,000 could be issued for those who do not comply with self-isolation requirements when the international border opens, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced. New border reopening dates were released by the Government on Thursday, with vaccinated Kiwis offshore allowed to come home from various countries in a staggered approach, without having to go through MIQ. The announcement came with a warning. Ardern said fines between $4000 and $12,000 could be issued if self-isolation requirements were breached. The arrivals area at Auckland Airport. (Source: Getty) “When you move to self-isolation it does have a high level of personal responsibility involved," she said. “We have made the decision to move to this phase at a time when New Zealand will be in a better position to deal [...]
Covid-19: Border reopening for New Zealanders confirmed for end of February – what you need to know
New Zealanders in Australia will be able to return home by the end of the month under a five-stage reopening plan announced by the government today. The first stages of the plan would see returning vaccinated New Zealanders able to go into self-isolation and taking a test on arrival, rather than going into managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ). The five stages: 11.59pm 27 February: Self-isolation opens for New Zealanders and eligible travellers coming from Australia 11.59pm 13 March: Open to New Zealanders and eligible travellers from the rest of the world; skilled workers earning at least 1.5x median wage; working holiday visas 11.59pm 12 April: Offshore temporary visa holders who still meet visa requirements; 5000 international students; consideration of further class exemptions for critical workforces that do not meet [...]
PM Lee ‘cautiously optimistic’ about 2022 as Singapore progressively reopens borders, resumes travel
SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said on Monday (Jan 31) that he is “cautiously optimistic” about the year ahead, as Singapore progressively reopens its borders and resumes travel. Speaking to journalists on a visit to Jurong Point on the eve of Chinese New Year, Mr Lee said that while some sectors like F&B and tourism are still facing issues, Singapore’s economy is on "an even keel" and set to grow 3 to 5 per cent this year. Responding to a question about his thoughts for 2022, Mr Lee said: “Economically, I think it’s not bad because America’s economy is quite strong, still growing well. Europe, a bit more guarded but they’re also growing." He said while the Omicron wave is an uncertainty, "it has gone up quickly (and) [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 126 new community cases, 79 in MIQ
There are 126 new cases of Covid-19 in the community and 79 at the border, the Ministry of Health is reporting today. Photo: 123RF It comes as Cabinet prepares to discuss the reopening of New Zealand's borders. Today's new community cases are in Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Lakes, Bay of Plenty, Tairāwhiti, Taranaki, Hawke's Bay, Wellington, Nelson Marlborough, and Canterbury. In a statement, the Ministry of Health said there were 22,508 booster doses administered yesterday, taking the total to date to 1,324,160. "With Omicron in New Zealand, the best thing you can do is get your booster as soon as it is due," the ministry said. "Boosters lower your chances of getting very sick and being hospitalised. Being boosted also helps slow the spread of the virus. If you're [...]
Russia, US exchange harsh words over Ukraine at UN
Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, addresses the United Nations Security Council, before a vote, Monday, Jan. 31, 2022. (AP Photo/Richard Drew) UNITED NATIONS — Russia accused the West on Monday of “whipping up tensions” over Ukraine and said the U.S. had brought “pure Nazis” to power in Kyiv as the U.N. Security Council held a stormy and bellicose debate on Moscow’s troop buildup near its southern neighbor. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield shot back that Russia’s growing military force of more than 100,000 troops along Ukraine’s borders was “the largest mobilization” in Europe in decades, adding that there has been a spike in cyberattacks and Russian disinformation. “And they are attempting, without any factual basis, to paint Ukraine and Western countries as the aggressors to fabricate a [...]
Philippine Senate, House pass bills granting more benefits to health workers
Health workers. Artwork by Ed Lustan MANILA, Philippines — The Senate on Monday unanimously passed a bill granting monthly risk allowances to health workers ranging from P3,000 to P9,000 depending on risk classification, and compensation for death or sickness, among other benefits. By a 23-0 vote, the chamber approved Senate Bill No. 2421, or the proposed COVID-19 Benefits and Allowances for Health Workers Act of 2021, sponsored by the committees on finance, health and ways and means. Under the senators’ proposal, all public and private medical personnel in hospitals and COVID-19 facilities will be entitled to a monthly COVID-19 risk allowance, depending on risk. Those with “low risk exposure,” meaning they perform administrative duties, in nonpublic areas, or away from other staff and patients, will receive P3,000 per [...]
OCTA: ‘Worst is over’ in most of PH as COVID-19 cases decline
FILE PHOTO Metro Manila, Philippines — The COVID-19 situation in most parts of the country is improving, according to OCTA Research. “We believe that the worst is over in most parts of the country,” OCTA Research fellow Guido David said in a forum on Monday, noting that COVID-19 cases in many areas have either peaked or are peaking. “The decrease is happening earlier in Cebu City compared to Mandaue but, nevertheless, we are seeing a decrease in Cebu, also in Davao City,” he added. However, David said there is “a significant increase in new cases” in several areas in Mindanao, including the provinces of Bukidnon, Camiguin, Cotabato, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Maguindanao, Negros Oriental, Sarangani, South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat. The government [...]
Average asking price for New Zealand houses tops $1 million
The national average asking price for a home in January means house prices have more than doubled over the past 10 years to more than $1 million. The sale of dwellings is slowing and due to tightened lending rules, according to realestate.co.nz. (Source: rnz.co.nz) The national average asking price rose 1.4 per cent in January over December to just over $1 million on realestate.co.nz. Gisborne's asking prices rose 20 per cent while Central Otago/Lakes District dropped 8.1 per cent. The number of houses available for sale was up 28.5 per cent on the year earlier, with a year-on-year increase of about 4500 homes. However, January listings on realestate.co.nz were down 1.7 per cent year-on-year, reflecting a slowdown in the number of sales. "A significant factor at play is [...]
Supply chain issues expected until late 2022 – expert
During Omicron outbreaks, experts say New Zealand’s supply chains will only be as healthy as the people running them. The highly-contagious Covid-19 variant has stifled workforces in Australia, so will we suffer the same fate if the variant takes hold here? Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Federation president Chris Edwards said empty shelves were not inevitable if New Zealand learnt lessons from in Australia. “If we’re smart we can get through it, if we’re not, we’ll have significant issues.” Omicron's high transmission rate and isolation requirements mean labour shortages could stifle supply chains and workforces. “If businesses can’t test themselves or isolation requirements are too long then the supply chain will be under significant pressure,” Edwards said. He added that retailers could also be severely disrupted by consumers choosing [...]
New Zealand Cabinet ministers to finalise dates for reopening borders
Cabinet ministers are expected to discuss their plan for reopening the borders when they meet today. A managed isolation and quarantine facility in Christchurch. File photo. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon A staged timeline was outlined late last year, but was quickly pushed back because of the risks posed by the Covid-19 Omicron variant. The latest plan states that from the end of February, vaccinated New Zealanders in Australia, and possibly elsewhere, will be allowed to skip managed isolation and isolate at home. The same conditions are set down for most foreigners from the end of April. Ministers have been reviewing those dates, and RNZ News understands Cabinet will finalise, but not announce them, today. 'Betrayal' Former Police Assistant Commissioner David Cliff who has moved to Switzerland for [...]
British PM Johnson refuses to resign over lockdown parties
Instead, he said his government was focused on driving economic growth and leading the Western response to the Ukraine crisis. PHOTO: EPA-EFE LONDON - British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (Jan 26) rejected opposition calls to resign for attending lockdown parties but accepted that a rule that ministers should lose their jobs if they had knowingly misled Parliament applied to him. Mr Johnson, who in 2019 won the biggest Conservative majority in more than 30 years, is braced for the publication of an official investigation into claims that there were multiple boozy Downing Street parties during lockdowns. He told Parliament no rules were broken. It was not immediately clear when the results of that investigation by Cabinet Office official Sue Gray would be published, especially as police have [...]
Winter Olympics 2022: China eases Covid testing rules amid rise in cases
REUTERS The majority of the Beijing public aren't allowed to attend the Games due to Covid restrictions Organisers of the Beijing Winter Olympics have eased a Covid-19 testing requirement for participants, amid a growing number of cases in the capital. The new change makes it easier for participants arriving at the Games to be considered virus-free. Of more than 3,000 Olympic arrivals, 106 have tested positive for the virus since 4 January. Outside of the tournament's closed-off premises, Beijing locals are facing harsher restrictions and new lockdowns. Around two million residents in Beijing's Fengtai district have been told to undergo testing, as a handful of locally transmitted cases were found earlier this week. Locals who bought over-the-counter treatments for fever or cough symptoms have also been told to do [...]
Covid-19 in Australia: At least 59 deaths, 45,000 new cases today
As some Australian states appear to be getting past the biggest peak of Omicron, officials continue to call for people to take up booster vaccinations. People queuing for Covid-19 testing in Melbourne, early January. Photo: Recep Sakar / Anadolu Agency via AFP Daily updates by state: NSW: 17,316 new cases, 2,722 people in hospital, 181 in ICU, 29 deaths VIC: 13,755 new cases, 1057 people in hospital, 117 in ICU, 15 deaths QLD: 11,600 new cases, 829 people in hospital, 48 in ICU, 15 deaths SA: 1953 new cases, 288 people in hospital, 27 in ICU TAS: 726 new cases, 24 people in hospital NSW NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant called on older residents and those with underlying health issues to get the booster shot. She said [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 45 new community cases, 34 Omicron cases added to total
There are 45 new community cases of Covid-19 today, with the number of Omicron cases in the community rising to 90. File image. Photo: 123RF In a statement, the Ministry of Health said there were 34 new Omicron cases. The ministry said there were active cases being treated as Omicron in Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki, Palmerston North, and Nelson-Tasman. It said many of the new cases have previously been reported and linked retrospectively, so were not included in today's report of new community cases. "The number of cases and contacts are expected to grow given the highly transmissible nature of Omicron and as we learn more from case interviews." The ministry also confirmed that one of the five cases who tested positive in Auckland after going [...]
PH May 2022 Elections: Comelec reveals final ballot face for 2022 polls
Metro Manila, PHILIPPINES — The Commission on Elections on Tuesday released the official ballot face for the May 2022 general elections. Included in the ballot are 10 presidential candidates, nine vice presidential candidates, and 64 senatorial bets. The candidates vying for the highest post in the country are: Ernie Abella, Leody de Guzman, Isko Domagoso, Norberto Gonzales, Ping Lacson, Faisal Mangondato, Bongbong Marcos, Jose Montemayor, Jr., Manny Pacquiao, and Leni Robredo. The Comelec earlier said that Marcos’ name will remain in the ballot until there is a reason to remove him. At least three cases against his candidacy have been junked, while the rest are up for resolution. Meanwhile, the following are the vice-presidential race contenders: Lito Atienza, Walden Bello, Rizalito David, Sara Duterte, Manny Lopez, Willie Ong, Francis [...]
Covid-19: 23 new community cases reported in NZ, number of Omicron cases reaches 56
There have been 23 new community cases of Covid-19 reported in New Zealand today, with the total number of Omicron cases reported in the community now at 56. File image. Photo: 123RF In a statement, the Ministry of Health said there were also 36 new cases at the border There are six people in hospital with the coronavirus in New Zealand. Today's new community cases are in Northland (one), Auckland (12), Waikato (three), Rotorua (five), Capital and Coast (one), Nelson Marlborough (one). The ministry said there had now been 56 community cases confirmed as Omicron through whole genome sequencing, or were suspected Omicron. That included 44 cases linked to a family event and other associated events in Auckland on the weekend of 15 and 16 January. The 15 new [...]
Australia Day events held, calls for country to unite as ‘one mob’
Australia Day events have begun around the country, with ceremonies in Sydney celebrating the oldest living culture in the world and acknowledging January 26 is a "sombre" day for many. The Opera House's sails were illuminated with a projection named Goanna Songline by Central Desert artist David Miller, a senior Pitjantjatjara man. The Australian and Aboriginal flags were then raised on top of the Harbour Bridge, where they'll remain for the day as a symbol of harmony. Artwork by Pitjantjatjara man Yadjidta David Miller is projected onto the sails of the Sydney Opera House at dawn.(AAP: Bianca de Marchi) Chris McCrae from Evans Head celebrating Australia Day on the NSW North Coast.(ABC News: Bronwyn Herbert) The WugulOra Morning Ceremony was held at Gudjyi (Barangaroo Reserve), a place where Eora women once paddled their canoes to catch fish and collect shellfish. Wiradjuri woman and [...]
NZ Covid-19 Update: Next phases of government’s Omicron plan revealed
Isolation periods for Covid-19 cases and close contacts will be reduced as the country goes through a new three-step approach to Omicron unveiled by the government this afternoon. Associate Health Minister Ayesha Verrall has provided more detail on the government's new three-step approach to Omicron. Watch the announcement here: The first phase includes an intensive approach to contact tracing. Under the second phase, the focus will shift to people who are more at risk, and critical workers. "This is ultimately about ensuring the wellbeing of all New Zealanders. This has been the principle of our Covid-19 response right from the beginning." Dr Verrall said the number of cases will determine what phase the country is at. The country could move to Phase Two when numbers are less than 1000 [...]
Getting Australians out of Ukraine amid Russia tensions a ‘cautious’ step, government says
Marise Payne says the government's priority is making sure Australians in Ukraine are safe.(ABC News: Adam Kennedy)The federal government has defended its decision to urge Australians to leave Ukraine and begin making arrangements to get the families of diplomats out of the capital. Key points: There are around 1,400 Australians in Ukraine at the moment Ukraine has described the government's move to get diplomat's families out of the country as "premature" Australia has offered more support to Ukraine to bolster its cybersecurity defences against Russia On Monday night, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade updated the travel advice for the country to "do not travel" because of the "increased risk of armed conflict". Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne said there were around 1,400 Australians in Ukraine at the moment, who [...]
US Navy pilot ejects, 7 hurt in F-35 South China Sea ‘landing mishap’
An F-35C jet prepares to catapult from the deck of the USS Carl Vinson in the Western Pacific, south of Japan, Nov 30, 2021. (File photo: REUTERS/Tim Kelly) WASHINGTON— Seven US Navy sailors were hurt on Monday (Jan 24) when an F-35C warplane had a "landing mishap" on the deck of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson in the South China Sea and the pilot ejected, the US Navy said. A navy statement said the incident happened during "routine flight operations" in the South China Sea. "The pilot safely ejected from the aircraft and was recovered via US military helicopter," it said. "The pilot is in stable condition. There were seven total sailors injured." The statement said three of the sailors required evacuation to a medical facility in Manila and four [...]
NZ’s average house asking price reaches high of $956K
The national average asking price for a property jumped by a quarter year-on-year in December to reach a new high of $956,150, according to the latest Trade Me Property Price Index. Houses in Mt Albert, Auckland (file picture). (Source: istock.com) Last month’s national average asking price increase was the largest on record, Trade Me Property sales director Gavin Lloyd said in a media release. “After entering the $900,000 bracket for the first time in November, the national average asking price continued to break records and show unprecedented growth last month. December marked the third month in a row where we saw property prices increase by more than 20 per cent year-on-year." The average asking price last month increased by “at least 15 per cent year-on-year in December” in [...]
US puts 8,500 troops on heightened alert amid fears over Ukraine
Soldiers placed on standby to deploy to Europe as concerns over possible ‘lightning attack’ by Russia grow The USS Harry S Truman aircraft carrier is now under Nato command in the Mediterranean.Photograph: Facundo Arrizabalaga/EPA The US has placed 8,500 troops on heightened alert to deploy to Europe as Nato reinforced its eastern borders with warships and fighter jets, amid growing fears of a possible “lightning” attack by Russia to seize the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said the troops, all of them currently stationed in the US, would be on standby to take part in Nato’s Response Force (NRF) if it is activated, but would also be available “if other situations develop”. The alert order issued by the defence secretary, Lloyd Austin, reduces the number of days [...]
Global stock markets dive as fears of Ukraine conflict rattle investors
European markets slide to lowest levels since October, with New York also hit A Ukrainian soldier on the frontline in Pisky. Russia has amassed forces and equipment near the Ukrainian border, raising the spectre of a possible invasion. Photograph: Brendan Hoffman/Getty Global stock markets have fallen sharply as fears of military conflict in Ukraine spooked investors, wiping £53bn off the value of the UK’s blue-chip share index. European markets tumbled by 3.8% to their lowest levels since October, their biggest one-day fall in more than 18 months, after Nato said it was reinforcing its eastern borders with land, sea and air forces as a Russian invasion of Ukraine appeared increasingly likely. Volatility soared, as investors also feared the US central bank, the Federal Reserve, would raise interest rates several [...]
Auckland’s Lantern Festival cancelled for third year running
Auckland’s much-loved Lantern Festival has been cancelled for the third year running. Auckland Lantern Festival (Source: istock.com) Auckland Mayor Phil Goff said the event can't run under gathering limits required at the Red traffic light setting, and given the uncertainty about how long it will be in place, the decision was made to cancel. “The Auckland Lantern Festival is New Zealand’s largest cultural celebration, and a key component of the Auckland event calendar, especially for the Auckland-Chinese community,” he said. “After the cancellation due to Covid of the 2020 and 2021 festivals and other major Chinese New Year events scheduled for early next month, this year’s event was highly anticipated, and we are disappointed to have to cancel it again. “However, the safety of our communities has to [...]
Turnover of P614-M China military aid to PH set February
MANILA – The Chinese government has allocated PHP1 billion worth of military assistance to the Philippines, with the first batch of equipment worth around PHP614 million delivered a week ago. Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian said the equipment, mostly vehicles, would be formally turned over in February. "The first batch of the military equipment worth RMB76 million arrived in Manila on January 16, including rescue and relief equipment, which will be formally turned over to the DND (Department of National Defense) and AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) in February. The second batch worth RMB54 million will be delivered on a later date," he said in a statement on Saturday. The donation was part of Chinese President Xi Jinping's 2019 commitment to assist and support the Philippine government in its [...]
‘Such is life’ – PM’s wedding ‘not going ahead’ as NZ moves to Red
The Prime Minister's wedding with Clarke Gayford is not going ahead for now in light of the Omicron outbreak. Clarke Gayford and Jacinda Ardern. (Source: Getty) The country will go to the Red setting at 11.59pm on Sunday. Jacinda Ardern said Kiwis should plan to be in Red, at least, "for a few weeks, we are right at the start of this outbreak". "My wedding will not be going ahead," she said during Sunday's media conference. "But I just join many other New Zealanders who have had an experience like that as a result of the pandemic and to anyone who’s caught up in that scenario, I am so sorry. "We are all so resilient and I know we understand we are doing this for one another, and [...]
NZ to move to Red at 11.59pm tonight, Nelson-Tasman cases confirmed as Omicron
The whole of New Zealand will move to the Red setting of the traffic light system at 11:59pm on Sunday night as the Omicron Covid-19 variant has begun to spread in the community. File photo (Source: rnz.co.nz) The Prime Minister and Director of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield held a media conference Sunday morning, confirming the cases in Nelson and Tasman are the Omicron variant. The family had attended a wedding in Auckland, where more than 100 people attended. A flight attendant picked up the virus on a flight, and there was another case confirmed of a wedding attendee. "Omicron is now circulating in Auckland and possibly Nelson-Tasman region, if not elsewhere." Ardern said Kiwis should plan to be in Red, at least, "for a few weeks, we are [...]
Christchurch City Council considers removing library fines for overdue books
Library fines for overdue books would be abolished under a recommendation to be considered by the Christchurch City Council next week. Photo: Unsplash / Jessica Ruscello An increasing number of libraries across New Zealand and overseas are scrapping fines, including Auckland, Dunedin, San Francisco and New York. They found return rates increased when fine-free policies were introduced. Fines for overdue items are currently charged at 70 cents per day, up to a maximum of $21 per item at Christchurch public libraries. Memberships are blocked once people have $30 or more in unpaid fines and charges, or owe fines for more than 21 days. Once this happens, they cannot borrow items, put them on hold or access eResources. Council staff have recommended getting rid of library fines and writing [...]
Ukraine tension: US ‘lethal aid’ arrives in Kyiv amid border build-up
US EMBASSY KYIV The US embassy in Kyiv released photos of Saturday's shipment as it pledged ongoing support for Ukraine Some 90 tonnes of US "lethal aid" has arrived in Ukraine, amid tensions over Russia's troop build-up on the border. It was the first shipment of a recently approved package of US military aid for Ukraine, and included ammunition for "front-line defenders". The delivery followed US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Kyiv this week, where he warned of a tough response if Russia was to invade. Moscow has denied any plans to attack or invade Ukraine. US President Joe Biden approved the $200m (£147.5m) security support package in December. The US embassy in Kyiv said the shipment demonstrated its "firm commitment to Ukraine's sovereign right to [...]
Australia delivers water, telecommunications aid to Tonga
This combination of this satellite images provided by Maxar Technologies shows an overview of Nomuka in the Tonga island group on Aug. 17, 2020, left, and Jan. 20, 2022, right, showing the damage after the Jan. 15 eruption. (Satellite image ©2022 Maxar Technologies via AP) CANBERRA, Australia— Three flights from Australia carrying food, water, medical supplies and telecommunications equipment landed in Tonga on Saturday, as the Pacific nation grapples with the aftermath of an underwater volcanic eruption and tsunami. Planes from other nations, including New Zealand and Japan, have also brought sorely needed aid to the Tongan people, said Zed Seselja, Australian minister for international development and the Pacific. The first such aid arrived Thursday, after the main airport runway was cleared of ash spewed when the nearby [...]
23 new Covid cases today, ‘possible’ Auckland Omicron case
There are 23 new Covid-19 cases in the community on Friday, the Ministry of Health has announced. People tested at a pop-up Covid-19 testing station in Auckland (file photo). (Source: Getty) The cases are in Auckland (11), Waikato (1), Lakes (8), Hawke’s Bay (2) and Nelson Marlborough (1). Eighteen people are in hospital with the virus, including one in an intensive care or high dependency unit. The ministry also said the case in Palmerston North had been confirmed as being infected with the Omicron variant. The case became symptomatic on Wednesday and returned a positive test result that evening. They had been released from MIQ in Christchurch on Sunday, January 16 and had returned five negative tests throughout their stay. Whole genome sequencing confirmed the Omicron variant last [...]
PH economy seen growing 7% in ’22
The Philippine economy is likely to expand at a faster pace of 7 percent this year on the back of sustained fiscal and monetary stimulus, reduced mobility restrictions and the attainment of herd immunity against COVID-19, the chief economist of Maybank Investment Bank said. This macroeconomic backdrop is seen supportive of local equities, which will likely propel the main-share Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) to 8,200 by the year’s end, while corporate earnings may rise by an average of 19 percent, Maybank’s analysts said. At a briefing, economist Suhaimi Ilias said sustained economic reopening would be a key theme for gross domestic product (GDP) growth across Southeast Asia this year as opposed to the recurring lockdowns of the past two years. Pace of vaccination One critical factor cited is [...]
Coronavirus: Austrian parliament approves mandatory vaccination order
GETTY IMAGES Health Minister Wolfgang Mueckstein said the mandate was how the country would "escape the cycle of opening and closing, of lockdowns" Austria has moved closer to introducing a compulsory vaccination order after parliament's lower house voted in favour of new government proposals. The law, which is due to come into effect on 1 February, would make Austria the first European country to introduce a mandatory jab. From mid-March the law will see adults unvaccinated against Covid-19 subjected to fines of up to €3,600 (£2,994). So far, 72% of Austrians have been fully vaccinated against the virus. The bill must now pass the upper house and be signed into law by President Alexander Van der Bellen, steps largely expected to be formalities. The vaccine order is expected [...]
Thailand to resume quarantine-free travel for vaccinated arrivals in February
International visitors await instructions from health officials inside the arrival terminal at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Thailand on Nov 1, 2021. (Photo: AFP/Lillian Suwanrumpha) BANGKOK— Thailand will resume its "Test & Go" quarantine waiver for vaccinated arrivals from Feb 1, its coronavirus task force said on Thursday (Jan 20), in response to slowing COVID-19 infections. The scheme was suspended a month ago after only seven weeks due to the rapid global spread of the Omicron variant and uncertainty about vaccine effectiveness against it. The policy requires visitors to test on arrival and again five days later, while agreeing to have their whereabouts tracked, spokesperson Taweesin Wisanuyothin told a briefing. Authorities also extended the hours restaurants are allowed to serve alcohol to 11pm from 9pm. Bars and nightclubs will remain closed, however. The [...]
NZers urged to prepare for potentially thousands of daily Omicron infections
New Zealanders are being urged to prepare for potentially thousands of daily Covid-19 infections once the Omicron variant starts spreading in the community. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, with Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins and Associate Health Minister Ayesha Verrall, said the country would move to the red traffic light setting once Omicron was spreading in the community. Photo: RNZ / Robin Martin Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has set out the way ahead at Labour's annual caucus retreat in New Plymouth. But Opposition parties are accusing the government of making up the plan as it goes along. Omicron is knocking on the door and loudly with dozens of cases picked up in Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ) every day. The variant is already slowly seeping through the border and [...]
Covid-19 update: Omicron case confirmed in Palmerston North
A case of Covid-19 detected in Palmerston North has been confirmed to be the Omicron variant, the Ministry of Health says. Photo: 123rf.com In total, there are 23 Covid-19 cases in the community today and 40 infections at the border. In a statement, the Ministry of Health said "Whole genome sequencing has confirmed that the case who tested positive in Palmerston North has the Omicron variant of Covid-19. "The case became symptomatic on Wednesday and returned a positive COVID-19 test result on Wednesday evening, with WGS confirmed Thursday evening. "Whole genome sequencing has identified similarities to border cases identified in Auckland, but no direct links. It has not identified any links to cases in the Christchurch MIQ facility, suggesting that the source of infection is [...]
Tonga eruption sets world record for booming heard so far from volcano
Volcanologists estimate the material ejected in the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai eruption was about twice that of the Mount St Helens eruption in 1980. Hunga Tonga— Hunga Ha'apai erupting on 14 January - the day before an even more violent eruption. Photo: Tonga Geological Services/ EyePress News via AFP GNS Science says initial assessments indicate that up to one cubic kilometre of material spewed from the Tongan volcano. The eruption and gas plumes on 15 January rose about 30 kilometres into the sky. In a statement, GNS Science Duty Vulcanologist Steve Sherburn said this eruption was the largest in the volcano's current eruptive episode that dates back to 2009. He said it was much more violent than scientists had expected, given the volcano's smaller eruptions in recent decades. The [...]
Malaysia government allocates RM680 million to ensure price stability for essential goods: Minister
File photo of workers filling shelves at a supermarket in Bentong, in Malaysia’s Pahang state, on January 14, 2021. (Photo: AFP/Mohd Rasfan) KOTA KINABALU— The Malaysian government has set aside RM680 million (US$162 million) to ensure price standardisation and price stabilisation for essential goods, said Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi. A total of RM400 million has been set aside for the cooking oil price stabilisation programme and RM40 million for the general use flour subsidy programme, Mr Nanta Linggi told reporters after an event at Pasar Besar Kota Kinabalu on Monday (Jan 17). He said another RM240 million would be allocated for the implementation of the price standardisation programme, which included the distribution of essential goods, liquefied petroleum gas and community drumming programme, Bernama reported. [...]
Australia suffers deadliest day of COVID-19 pandemic as Omicron drives up hospital cases
Healthcare workers wait for the next vehicle at a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) testing clinic as the Omicron coronavirus variant continues to spread in Sydney, Australia, December 30, 2021. REUTERS/Nikki Short SYDNEY— Australia on Tuesday (Jan 18) suffered its deadliest day of the pandemic as a fast-moving Omicron outbreak continued to push up hospitalisation rates to record levels, even as daily infections eased slightly. Australia is dealing with its worst COVID-19 outbreak, fuelled by the Omicron variant of the coronavirus that has put more people in hospitals and intensive care than at any time during the pandemic. A total of 74 deaths were registered by late morning between New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, Australia's three most populous states, exceeding the previous national high of 57 last Thursday, official data [...]
Comelec division denies petition to cancel Marcos’ presidential bid
Metro Manila, PHILIPPINES — The Commission on Elections second division has denied a petition of civic leaders to cancel the candidacy of presidential aspirant Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos for lack of merit. Commissioners Socorro Inting (the presiding commissioner), Antonio Kho Jr, and Rey Bulay dismissed the petition of the group of civic leaders led by priest Christian Buenafe and political prisoners' group KAPATID against late dictator Ferdinand Marcos' son and namesake. "The Second Division ruled that there was no ground to cancel Marcos Jr.'s COC on the ground of material misrepresentation," the group's lead counsel Theodore Te relayed. The petitioners sought the cancellation of Marcos' presidential bid on the ground that his certificate of candidacy contains false material representations, including his assertion that he is eligible to seek the presidency despite [...]
PH to tap pharmacies, private clinics to expand booster program
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, PHILIPPINES— The government will seek the help of big pharmacies and private clinics to be able to administer more booster doses for COVID-19 vaccination. The government will make booster shots available in select branches of Mercury Drug, Watsons, The Generics Pharmacy, Generika, South Star Drug, QualiMed, and Healthway in Metro Manila towards the end of the week, according to presidential adviser for COVID-19 response Vince Dizon. "They responded immediately to the call of the national government. We will now start with seven pharmacies in Metro Manila which we will launch on Thursday and Friday," he said during a televised briefing that aired on Tuesday. The official said the Resbakuna sa mga Botika program will help ease pressure on vaccination sites manned by local [...]
Traffic light system may need strengthening, Bloomfield says
The Ministry of Health is looking at whether to tweak the traffic light system in the face of Omicron, says the Director-General of Health. Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield speaks to reporters. (Source: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone) The Government is due to share plans of its Omicron preparations in the coming weeks. Dr Ashley Bloomfield says the declining number of cases in the ongoing Delta outbreak shows the traffic light system has worked well. But he told Morning Report the system, based on vaccination certificates, is less suited to Omicron. A person working at an MIQ facility in Auckland tested positive for Covid-19 on Saturday. The following day is was confirmed the person had the Omicron variant. The worker, who was infectious from January 10, took two [...]
New Zealand sends Navy ships to Tonga after airport ash
New Zealand is sending two naval ships to Tonga, after ash on Nuku’alofa airport's runway prevented the landing of the Hercules flight that was scheduled to bring in aid. (Source: Supplied) The ships will take over urgent supplies including water and also survey and diving teams to assess the shipping channels and ports. Defence Minister Peeni Henare said the HMNZS Wellington Navy ship would take the survey and diving teams and a Seasprite helicopter, while the HMNZS Aotearoa would take bulk water supplies and other humanitarian and disaster relief supplies. "Water is among the highest priorities for Tonga at this stage and HMNZS Aotearoa can carry 250,000 litres, and produce 70,000 litres per day through a desalination plant," he said. "The survey and diving teams are able to [...]
Tonga tsunami death toll rises to three
The acting United Nations co-ordinator in the Pacific understands three people have died following the eruption in Tonga on Saturday. Powerful undersea volcano eruption in Tonga on Friday Jan 14, 2022. Photo: Tonga Geological Services/ EyePress News via AFP Fiji-based United Nations co-ordinator Jonathan Veitch said two deaths were confirmed but there were still areas that had not been contacted. He said one of those fatalities was British national Angela Glover, who was reported by her family to have been killed by the tsunami. Glover is thought to have died trying to rescue her dogs at the animal charity she ran. Veitch said help was on the way for the people of Tonga. The Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haʻapai volcano, which erupted on Saturday, was about 65km north of Tonga's [...]
NZ Covid-19 update on 18 January: 14 new community cases today, 30 at the border
A household contact of the Omicron-infected MIQ worker in Auckland has today tested positive for Covid-19. Photo: AFP The MIQ worker's positive result came as part of routine testing and was reported by the ministry on 15 January. In a statement, the Ministry of Health said the household contact was symptomatic and already isolating. So far, all the other household members have returned negative tests, it said. As of this morning, 86 contacts have been identified in relation to the case - 75 have returned negative test results, and 10 people are yet to be tested. "From the exposure events linked to the initial case, there are 10 people from the two bus journeys who are yet to be tested and are being followed up [...]
Kiwis in Tonga urged to register on SafeTravel – MFAT
Kiwis in Tonga continue to be urged to register their details on SafeTravel after underwater volcano Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai erupted on Saturday, causing tsunami waves to hit the Pacific kingdom and other Pacific countries. An eruption at Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai has caused a tsunami, with an evacuation warning in place in Tonga. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said 30 Kiwis are currently registered on SafeTravel as being in Tonga. A spokeswoman said its thoughts are with the people of Tonga as they respond to the "very concerning event". "The New Zealand High Commission in Nuku‘alofa is monitoring the situation closely and is in contact with local authorities," she said. The Commission said there are no official reports of injuries or deaths as of yet. "However, communications are limited," the spokeswoman [...]
Low delivery of boosters puts NZ at risk from Omicron – expert
With New Zealand still being in the early stages of its booster rollout, it is more vulnerable than other nations to the impact of the Covid-19 variant Omicron, Professor Michael Baker says. This illustration, created at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reveals ultrastructural morphology exhibited by coronaviruses (Source: Getty) The University of Otago epidemiologist said Aotearoa has lower rates of booster shots than some other countries and does not have immunity from prior infections so it will be more at risk. He believes New Zealand is at a disadvantage despite further evidence from the UK that the variant that has spread quickly around the world is less severe. In the UK, the number of Covid cases has been declining this week after breaking daily records [...]
PH Gov’t mobilizes AFP, PNP, BJMP, PCG as more health workers fall ill due to COVID-19
Amid the deluge of healthcare workers getting infected with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the national government has started deploying personnel from the security sector to augment workforce in the hospitals. Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., vaccine czar and chief implementer of the National Task Force (NTF) Against COVID-19, assured that the government “is taking the necessary steps” to address the increasing number of healthcare workers that are getting sick. Part of their strategy is fielding personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) – particularly those with medical background – to sustain the operations of different healthcare facilities amid the surge of cases. “We mobilize the armed forces, PNP, BJMP, and our Coast [...]
Tsunami hits Tonga after underwater volcanic eruption
Streets and buildings flooded in Pacific nation’s main island following latest eruption of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai Tonga underwater volcanic eruption creates tsunami waves – video People have been forced to flee their homes and streets and buildings have flooded as tsunami waves crashed into Tonga’s main island of Tongatapu, following a huge underwater volcano explosion. A tsunami advisory was in effect for Hawaii, Alaska, the US Pacific coast and Japan, with reports of waves throwing boats up into the docks in Hawaii. The Japan Meteorological Agency said tsunami reached that country’s Pacific coast, too, with waves as high as three metres (11 feet) possible. A 1.2-metre wave reached the remote southern island of Amami Oshima and other areas along Japan’s Pacific coast observed smaller surges, the agency said. [...]
First wave of Auckland tourism vouchers being distributed
The first wave of Explore Tāmaki Makaurau vouchers are being released on Saturday. A general nightime view of the Auckland skyline as seen from the new Park Hyatt hotel in the Viaduct Basin. (Source: Getty) The vouchers are aimed at reactivating Auckland tourism after months of Covid-19 lockdown. They range from $50 for individuals to $100 for families and can be put towards activities around Auckland. So far 140,000 people have applied for 100,000 vouchers. Economic Development Minister Stuart Nash said last month the Explore Auckland scheme was part of a $37.5 million package put together with Auckland Council and Auckland Unlimited. Vouchers will be allocated in four rounds from January to March. Successful applicants will be notified via email and will have until the end of April to [...]
Cyclone Cody to pass east of NZ on Monday
MetService says Cyclone Cody will now pass east of New Zealand on Monday. Latest track of Cyclone Cody. (Source: MetService) It has subsequently lifted the heavy rain watch which was in place for Gisborne and the Wairoa District. However, a strong wind watch is in place for the eastern Bay of Plenty and northern Gisborne. The watch is in place from 3am on Monday until midnight. MetService warns south to southeast winds may approach severe gale in exposed places at times. Hazardous conditions are still expected about exposed eastern coastlines of the North Island, where large easterly swells, significant sea surges or rips and coastal inundation are possible. Cyclone Cody is expected to move southwards towards the Chatham Islands on Tuesday. The forecast for the islands is that [...]
Tonga volcano eruption and tsunami: No power, communications still down
There has been little contact with Tonga since an underwater volcano, Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai, erupted early yesterday evening. A tsunami hit the Kingdom after the volcano erupted for eight minutes, throwing clouds of ash into the sky. Waves flooded the capital, Nuku'alofa, where video footage has shown water engulfing buildings. Communications with Tonga has been down since 6.30pm yesterday, with reports that power had been cut in the capital. Tongan authorities should have a clearer picture this morning of the scale of the damage from Saturday's volcanic eruption and tsunami. The New Zealand defence force is currently monitoring the situation in Tonga, and said it stands ready to assist if requested by the Tongan Government. Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai on Friday, January 15, 2022 Photo: Tonga Geological Services One-in-1000-year event, according to volcanologist Scientists [...]
WHO recommends Eli Lilly, GSK-Vir’s drugs, widening COVID-19 treatment pool
FILE PHOTO: The World Health Organization logo is pictured at the entrance of the WHO building, in Geneva, Switzerland, Dec 20, 2021. (Reuters/Denis Balibouse) A World Health Organization (WHO) panel recommended use of two drugs by Eli Lilly, and GlaxoSmithKline and Vir Biotechnology for COVID-19 patients, adding treatment options as the fast-spreading Omicron variant renders many ineffective. WHO data shows Omicron, which is evading protection provided by many vaccines and therapies, has been identified in 149 countries. It is quickly replacing Delta as the dominant variant in several nations, forcing governments and scientists to bolster defences with testing, shots and therapies. The panel on Thursday (Jan 13) strongly recommended Lilly's baricitinib, sold under brand name Olumiant, for patients with severe COVID-19 in combination with corticosteroids, while conditionally endorsed GSK-Vir's [...]
Robredo says she’d rather beat Marcos in May polls than for him to get disqualified
Vice President Leni Robredo said she would rather defeat her opponent former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in the May elections than for him to get disqualified from running for the presidency. Robredo has once again refused to make a comment on Marcos’ disqualification case but she made the firm stand on the issue during a televised interview on Thursday night, Jan. 13. “Ayokong mag-comment doon sa (I don’t want to comment on the) disqualification case. But if you are– if you were to ask me, mas gusto ko talunin siya sa eleksyon para matapos na ito (I’d rather beat him in the election to finally put an end on this),” Robredo said on a CNN Philippines interview. The aspiring president said she wants to finally put an end [...]
Cyclone Cody: Civil Defence warns East Coast communities
Campers and residents along the East Coast are being told to prepare as remnants of Cyclone Cody track towards the North Island. Large surf at beach (file picture). (Source: Supplied) Forecasters are busy building a picture of just how bad the storm will be. It is expected to move from where it is to south-southeast over the weekend and beginning of next week towards north of Aotearoa, making landfall over the Bay of Plenty. If the forecast is correct, then gale to storm force winds are expected to affect a large portion of northern and eastern North Island and the upper South Island, resulting in large easterly swells of up to 8m, rips, and coastal inundation around exposed eastern coastlines. It is also expected many parts of central [...]
UN report projects global economy growth to slow in 2022, 2023
Containers are seen at the Yangshan Deep-Water Port in Shanghai, China, on Oct 19, 2020. (Photo: REUTERS/Aly Song) UNITED NATIONS— The global economy is projected to grow by 4 per cent in 2022 - down from 5.5 per cent last year - and expand 3.5 per cent in 2023 amid new waves of COVID-19 infections, labour market challenges, supply-chain constraints and rising inflation, according to a UN report released on Thursday. The World Economic Situation and Prospects 2022 report said 2021 growth momentum - following a contraction of 3.4 per cent in 2020 - began to slow by the end of the year, including in big economies like China, the European Union and the United States, as the effects of fiscal and monetary stimuli faded and major supply-chain [...]
China faces omicron test weeks ahead of Beijing Olympics
People wearing face masks to help protect against the coronavirus look at a display of the Winter Paralympic mascot Shuey Rhon Rhon, left, and Winter Olympic mascot Bing Dwen Dwen near the Olympic Green in Beijing, Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2022. Just weeks before hosting the Beijing Winter Olympics, China is battling multiple coronavirus outbreaks in half a dozen cities, with the one closest to the capital driven by the highly transmissible omicron variant. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) TAIPEI, Taiwan — Most access to a major city adjacent to Beijing was suspended Thursday as China tried to contain an outbreak of the highly contagious omicron variant, which poses a test to its “zero-tolerance” COVID-19 policy and its ability to successfully host the Winter Olympics. Tianjin, a port and manufacturing center [...]
Covid-19 update: 18 new community cases in New Zealand, 43 in MIQ
There have been 18 new community cases of Covid-19 reported in New Zealand today, with 43 cases in MIQ. Photo: 123RF In a statement, the Health Ministry said there were 34 people with the coronavirus in hospital, with two in intensive care. Today's new community cases were in Auckland (11), Waikato (4), Bay of Plenty (1) and Canterbury (2). The seven-day rolling average of border cases is 31, while the rolling average for community cases is 26. The Ministry said there have now been 266 Omicron cases detected at the border since the start of December, with more than 18,000 people being processed through Managed Isolation and Quarantine facilities in that time. There were 41,664 booster doses given yesterday - 45 percent [...]
Duterte signs law simplifying adoption process
President Rodrigo Duterte has signed a new law that will further simplify adoption in the country. (FILE PHOTO) PHILIPPINES — President Rodrigo Duterte has signed a new law that will further simplify adoption in the country. Republic Act 11642, or the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act, was signed on Jan. 6 and released to the public on Thursday. The legislation transfers all duties and functions of government agencies related to adoption and alternative child care to a new body, the National Authority for Child Care or NACC, and its regional offices. The law ensures a swift administrative adoption process by setting a specific length of time by which the NACC and its regional offices may decide on petitions for adoption, as well as act on [...]
Supreme Court halts COVID-19 vaccine rule for US businesses
FILE - This artist sketch depicts lawyer Scott Keller standing to argue on behalf of more than two dozen business groups seeking an immediate order from the Supreme Court to halt a Biden administration order to impose a vaccine-or-testing requirement on the nation's large employers during the COVID-19 pandemic, at the Supreme Court in Washington, Jan. 7, 2022. The Supreme Court has stopped the Biden administration from enforcing a requirement that employees at large businesses be vaccinated against COVID-19 or undergo weekly testing and wear a mask on the job. The court's order Thursday during a spike in coronavirus cases deals a blow to the administration's efforts to boost the vaccination rate among Americans. (Dana Verkouteren via AP, File) WASHINGTON— The Supreme Court has stopped a major push [...]
MI5 warning over ‘Chinese agent’ in Parliament
Image caption, Christine Lee runs a law firm, with offices in London and Birmingham MI5 has issued a rare warning that an alleged Chinese agent has infiltrated Parliament to interfere in UK politics. An alert from the security service said Christine Ching Kui Lee "established links" for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) with current and aspiring MPs. She then gave donations to politicians, with funding coming from foreign nationals in China and Hong Kong. It comes after a "significant, long-running" investigation by MI5, Whitehall sources told the BBC. One of the MPs funded by Ms Lee was Labour's Barry Gardiner, who received over £420,000 from her in five years - but he said he had always made the security services aware of the donations. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed [...]
Prince Andrew loses New Zealand military patronage
Prince Andrew has also lost his New Zealand military patronage after the Queen stripped him of his military titles. Prince Andew. File. (Source: Associated Press) Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the Duke of York was the Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment (The Duke of York's Own). "As a result of patronages returning to the Queen, his appointment has now ended," Ardern said in a statement. Ardern said that any further changes to Royal patronages and appointments would be a matter for her "to raise with the Queen of New Zealand in due course". Jacinda Ardern, file. (Source: Getty) It comes after more than 150 veterans signed an open letter to the Queen, asking for her to strip Prince Andrew of [...]
Ice cream could become big export earner for New Zealand, report suggests
New Zealand is known globally for its fine wine and sweet honey, now new research is trumpeting the country's premium ice cream. Photo: 123RF Economic Development Minister Stuart Nash today released a government report outlining the dairy treat's potential as an export earner. The latest report for the Food and Beverage Information Project suggests New Zealand could export to Australia, Asia and the UK. "It suggests premium ice cream could potentially follow the global success of premium wine and honey exports," Nash said in a statement. "Ice cream is produced in almost every region in New Zealand and there are around 48 local manufacturers. The challenge is translating our strong global position in dairy exports into a lucrative global market for our ice cream [...]
In first, US doctors transplant pig heart into human
In a medical first, doctors transplanted a pig heart into a patient in a last-ditch effort to save his life and a Maryland hospital said on Tuesday that he's doing well three days after the highly experimental surgery. David Bennett and family (Source: Associated Press) While it’s too soon to know if the operation really will work, it marks a step in the decades-long quest to one day use animal organs for life-saving transplants. Doctors at the University of Maryland Medical Centre say the transplant showed that a heart from a genetically modified animal can function in the human body without immediate rejection. The patient, David Bennett, 57, knew there was no guarantee the experiment would work but he was dying, ineligible for a human heart transplant and [...]
14 new Covid-19 community cases in NZ today
There are 14 new Covid-19 cases in the community on Tuesday, the Ministry of Health has confirmed. Covid-19 test (file photo). (Source: Getty) The new cases were found in Auckland (9), Northland (2), Waikato (2), Wellington (1). There are also two new cases to announce in the Canterbury region, however the ministry said these cases were notified after the daily cut-off time and will be officially be added to Wednesday's numbers. The new cases are in South Canterbury and Canterbury. "The South Canterbury case remains under investigation but shares a location of interest with a previously reported case," the ministry said. "The Canterbury case remains under investigation for any link to previously reported cases." Meanwhile, one of the Northland cases was reported on Monday, but officially added to [...]
80% of Filipinos hope worst of Covid over
COVID WARD FULL: A man rides past a sign informing the public that the Covid-19 ward of the San Juan de Dios Hospital is full. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO PHILIPPINES— Majority of Filipinos hope the worst of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) crisis is over, a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey revealed. The 2021 Fourth Quarter Survey showed that 80 percent of the respondents believe "the worst was behind us," surpassing the previous record of 69 percent in the Fourth Quarter Survey in November. It was also higher by 42 percent than the previous quarter. The percentage of those saying the worst is over was highest in Mindanao at 83 percent, followed by Metro Manila (82 percent), the rest of Luzon (81 percent) and the Visayas (75 [...]
Anti-vaccination doctor Jonie Girouard can no longer practise in New Zealand
A Kaiapoi doctor caught handing out fake vaccine exemptions is no longer registered to practise medicine in New Zealand. A screengrab of Dr Jonie Girouard. Photo: A screengrab from Newshub Footage of Jonie Girouard issuing bogus exemptions and coaching people on how to use them sparked an investigation into the North Canterbury GP in December. Medical Council chairperson Curtis Walker said Dr Girouard was now unable to practise medicine in New Zealand, as she was no longer registered. "Council takes these matters very seriously and our concern is demonstrated by the publication of our recent guidance emphasising council's view that there is no place for anti-vaccination messages in professional practice, nor any promotion of anti-vaccination claims, including on social media and advertising by health practitioners," Walker said. [...]
Covid-19: Doctors’ union calls for remuneration over ‘demanding’ workload
The union representing senior salaried doctors says there is growing anxiety about Omicron variant among hospital staff in an already burnt out workforce. Photo: 123RF NEW ZEALAND— The Association of Salaried Medical Specialists said this time of year is already busy with an influx of patients coming in over the Christmas and New Year break. Executive Director Sarah Dalton said there are also major concerns among members about an Omicron outbreak, given that patients needs are already not being met, which is being exacerbated by Covid-19. "Our members are extremely concerned that if Omicron became prevalent in New Zealand what that would mean, not just for people who become sick with Covid, but for people with other conditions who might miss out on care because of the strain [...]
Council fines anti-govt protest organisers more than $14,000
Christchurch City Council has slapped the organisers of anti-government protests with more than $14,000 in fines for costs incurred during its rallies. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon The invoice of $14,117 covers bylaw breaches and costs of providing traffic management at three protests at the end of last year hosted by the Freedom and Rights Coalition group. Police are also investigating the group's founder Brian Tamaki for speaking at an anti-government rally in Ōtautahi on Saturday, in an apparent breach of his bail conditions. Tamaki has been charged three times after speaking at large protests in breach of Auckland's level three rules. Christchurch City Council spokesperson Jane Davis said council staff supported police during the marches. "Council staff were supporting the police to keep people safe, controlling traffic [...]
Covid makes deadly return in Australia
LETHAL RESURGENCE Staff collect samples at a drive-through Covid-19 testing clinic at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia on Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022. Australia’s most populous state has reinstated some restrictions and suspended elective surgeries as Covid-19 cases surged to another record. APPHOTO SYDNEY— Australia's New South Wales state reported 16 deaths on Sunday in its deadliest day of the pandemic, even as it relaxed rules to allow some essential workers in isolation to return to work if they are asymptomatic. Just over 30,000 new cases were reported in Australia's most populous state, forcing those people to join more than 200,000 others in isolation. No statistics are kept to determine how many of those are essential workers in the food and manufacturing sectors. But some employers say up to half [...]
US tells Putin to choose confrontation or dialogue over Ukraine
Secretary of state Tony Blinken says coming week of talks is moment of truth for Russian president Russian troops taking part in drills in the southern Rostov region of the country. Moscow has amassed 100,000 troops in the Ukrainian border region. Photograph: AP The US has told Vladimir Putin to choose between dialogue and confrontation on the eve of a critical week of diplomacy over Ukraine as Russian troops remained massed along its borders. Senior diplomats and military officers from the US and Russia held a working dinner in Geneva on Sunday evening before Monday’s formal negotiations to discuss Moscow’s demands. Those were set out last month in two draft treaties, one with the US and one with Nato. Much of their content is unacceptable to Washington and the [...]
NZ Covid-19 update: 27 new community cases, 33 in MIQ
There are 27 new community cases of Covid-19 and 33 in Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ) facilities today. (File image) Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon In a statement, the Ministry of Health said there are 16 new community cases in Auckland, five in Waikato, two in Bay of Plenty, one in Rotorua, two in Hawke's Bay (Te Kūiti), and one in Wellington. Of the five new cases in the Waikato today - two in Hamilton, one in Ngāruawāhia, one in Whitianga, one in Coromandel town - three are unlinked. The positive case in Wellington attended the Britomart Block Party in Auckland on New Year's Eve. Anyone who attended the event between 11pm and 2.30am must immediately get tested and isolate, the ministry said. There are 35 cases in [...]
Emergency MIQ spots open for Kiwis facing hardship in Aus
New Zealand citizens stranded in Australia can now be allocated emergency spots in MIQ if they’re at risk of facing “significant and severe hardship” if they don’t return to Aotearoa within the next two months. MIQ facility (file photo). (Source: rnz.co.nz) Acting deputy secretary for MIQ Andrew Milne said the new category was introduced after the Government postponed MIQ facility-free travel in light of Omicron. “We understand how difficult this time has been for New Zealanders who are desperate to return and will face financial or safety issues if they cannot do so in the next couple of months. “This new temporary category will give them another way to get back home,” Milne said. The change in criteria came after would-be travellers from Australia were excluded from being [...]
Senators Lacson, Gatchalian positive for COVID-19; Congress sets lockdown
Metro Manila, PHILIPPINES — Senators Panfilo Lacson and Sherwin Gatchalian, who are both running in the upcoming elections, announced on Friday that they tested positive for COVID-19. Senatorial reelectionist Gatchalian said he has mild symptoms, while presidential aspirant Lacson said he has experienced sore throat, fever, and colds after he was exposed to his COVID-positive son earlier this week. Lacson complained of delays in receiving the result of the swab test he took on Tuesday, prompting his family to undergo another test. Lockdown in Senate, House Aside from the lawmakers, dozens of employees of the Senate have also either contracted COVID-19 or are under quarantine. This prompted Senate President Tito Sotto to order a “total closure” of the upper chamber for a week. “Total closure ang recommendation nila (Their recommendation [...]
Kazakhstan president vows to destroy ‘bandits and terrorists’ behind protests
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev tells security forces to ‘use lethal force without warning’ A burnt-out administrative building in central Almaty, after violence erupted following protests.Photograph: Abduaziz Madyarov/AFP/Getty Images The president of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, has promised an uncompromising crackdown on demonstrators in the country, telling security forces they should “use lethal force without warning” against protesters he called “bandits and terrorists”. On Friday, relative calm returned to Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city and the centre of recent tumult, and some residents ventured out for the first time in several days. They found looted shops, shattered glass and many burnt-out cars, with the grim atmosphere intensified by the thick mist enveloping the city. Police returned to the central streets for the first time since the clashes turned violent and protesters seized government buildings. [...]
Victoria records 51,356 new cases, nine deaths, new restrictions, rapid test changes
AUSTRALIA— Victoria has recorded a mammoth 51,356 new cases and nine Covid deaths in the past 24 hours. There are now 644 infected people in Victorian hospitals, with 106 active in intensive care and 24 on ventilators. Of the new cases, 26,428 were recorded via a rapid antigen test while 24,928 were recorded via a PCR test. Health Minister Martin Foley announced new restrictions on Thursday. Health Minister Martin Foley said recently more than one in fifty people in Victoria were likely infected. It’s the first time rapid tests were included in the daily tally, which also helps to explain the skyrocketing number. Most people who reported a positive rapid antigen test got that result earlier in the week, and reported it when the web form [...]
Stress for residents as Kaimaumau fire continues to burn
The Kaimaumau fire is entering its fourth week burning, but residents say the event has brought them closer. A 600-hectre blaze is threaterning the Far North township of Kaimaumau. Photo: Supplied/Mary-Jane Hoult The blaze that was first reported in the wetlands on 18 December has now burned through more than 2400ha of bush, scrub, swamp and dune vegetation and put homes in the far north village at risk. A team of 63 firefighters worked on the fire yesterday, with another 29 others working in an incident management team. And although all homes have been saved, Kaimaumau residents have had to evacuate twice, the latest on New Year's Day. Amanda McManus said the ordeal had not put her off living in the far north village; "Oh hell no, I [...]
Counterfeit banknotes circulating in South Taranaki
NZ POLICE/THE-DOMINION-POST A counterfeit banknote. Businesses in South Taranaki are being asked to keep an eye out for counterfeit notes after police were alerted to their use in the area. (File photo). Counterfeit banknotes have been presented at South Taranaki businesses, prompting a warning from police. Businesses should be on the lookout for the fake notes, police said, as they continue to try and establish their source. It is a crime to make, use or be in possession of counterfeit banknotes. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has clear guides outlining the security features of New Zealand banknotes and how to spot counterfeit notes. Security features are the same on all denominations and businesses involved in handling money should be aware of security features within New Zealand banknotes, [...]
Malaysian ex-leader Mahathir in hospital, second time in weeks
Mahathir Mohamad speaks at Putrajaya on Feb 27, 2020. (File photo: AFP/Mohd Rasfan) KUALA LUMPUR— Former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad was admitted to hospital on Friday (Jan 7), the medical facility said, weeks after he was discharged following a check-up. The National Heart Institute said the 96-year-old was admitted for an "elective medical procedure" but did not provide further details. The former premier was given a full medical check-up with several investigations at the same specialist heart hospital in mid-December, with doctors discharging him a week later. Mahathir has had heart problems in the past, suffering several heart attacks and undergoing bypass surgery. He has been one of Malaysia's most dominant political figures in recent decades, serving twice as prime minister for a total of 24 years. He [...]
Travellers must provide negative Covid-19 tests in shorter timeframe from today
Changes to pre-departure Covid-19 testing requirements to enter New Zealand come into effect today. As well as the PCR tests, there are two other types of tests that will be accepted for travellers from 105 countries and jurisdictions. Photo: 123RF People coming into the country will have to show a negative Covid-19 test within 48 hours of departure, instead of within 72 hours. There are also changes to allow travellers coming from 105 countries and jurisdictions, where obtaining a PCR test may be difficult or impossible. They will have to provide evidence of a negative rapid antigen test (RAT) or loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) test result. This will need to be taken within 24 hours of departure and all tests must be supervised by a health professional, which [...]
Covid-19 update: 35 new community cases, 24 in MIQ in New Zealand today
There are 35 new cases of Covid-19 in the community and 24 cases in managed isolation, the Ministry of Health has reported. Photo: 123rf.com In a statement, the Health Ministry said the 35 new community cases are in Auckland (18), Waikato (1), Bay of Plenty (13), Rotorua (2) and Taupō (1). The Ministry said a Rotorua based MIQ worker who tested positive on Wednesday is currently in isolation. It is currently investigating to find out if this infection came from either the community or the facility, but said the nature of the case's work meant they did not normally have direct contact with returnees. The worker is fully vaccinated and up-to-date with regular testing. Further genome testing results are due later today. There are now 37 people [...]
May 2022 PH Elections: 11 presidential bets, 9 VP aspirants make Comelec’s tentative cut
MANILA, PHILIPPINES — A total of 11 presidential aspirants and nine vice presidential hopefuls made it to the tentative list of candidates in the upcoming polls. In a list released on Thursday, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) trimmed the field of presidential aspirants from 15 to 11. A namesake of former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who is also running for president failed to make the list. The Comelec said Maria Aurora Marcos was declared a nuisance candidate. Here is the Comelec’s updated list of candidates for president: Abella, Ernie (independent) Arcega, Gerald (independent) De Guzman, Leody (Partido Lakas ng Masa) Domagoso, Isko Moreno (Aksyon Demokratiko) Gonzales, Norberto (Partido Demokratiko Sosyalista ng Pilipinas) Lacson, Ping (Partido Para Sa Demokratikong Reporma) Mangondato, Faisal (Katipunan ng Kamalayang Kayumanggi) Marcos, Bongbong [...]
Air New Zealand named world’s safest airline
New Zealand's national airline, Air New Zealand, has been named as the world's safest airline. An Air New Zealand plane. (Source: Getty) The accomplishment comes as AirlineRatings.com, which monitors 385 airlines, has revealed its top safest airlines and top safest low-cost airlines. Taking the top spot, Air New Zealand has been credited for its work. AirlineRatings.com editor-in-chief Geoffrey Thomas said that during an "extremely difficult" couple of years for airlines, Air New Zealand had been a leader with its comprehensive retraining. "Air New Zealand has also been a lead airline in many major operational safety advancements over the past 40 years," he said. "Air New Zealand also has an extremely young fleet and its pilots fly in some of the most difficult conditions from windy Wellington to the [...]
Covid-19 update: 19 new community cases reported in New Zealand today, 43 cases at the border
There are 19 new community cases of Covid-19 in New Zealand today and 43 cases in managed isolation, the Ministry of Health has reported. Photo: 123rf.com In a statement, the Health Ministry said the number of new cases in Auckland had dropped to single figures. The 19 new community cases are in Auckland (6), Waikato (5), Bay of Plenty (5), Northland (1) and Taranaki (2). The Emergency Department at Taranaki Base Hospital was identified as an exposure event yesterday, but no staff have been stood down. The Ministry said whole genome sequencing of the 43 new imported cases is expected soon, but the likelihood was that Omicron will continue to be "the most prevalent variant at our borders". The new cases came from USA, UAE, UK, Australia, India, Qatar, [...]
Food shortages in Australia expected during COVID-19 chaos
As COVID-19 wreaks havoc on Australia's critical food supply chain, shoppers have been warned to expect shortages at supermarkets throughout January. Stores on the east coast will be most heavily affected, Coles chief operations officer Matthew Swindells said, particularly New South Wales and Greater Sydney. Mr Swindells expected current food shortages at Coles to last "another couple of difficult weeks", as more and more workers catch coronavirus and are sidelined by the sharp rise in COVID-19 cases. The rapidly escalating COVID crisis is having an impact on our supermarket shelves. (9News) NSW hit a new pandemic high of 35,054 cases today, up almost 12,000 from yesterday. 9News understands the empty shelves which are now starting to greet shoppers are related to Delta and Omicron enforced absenteeism, not product shortages [...]
Philippine Dec inflation at 3.6per cent y/y, below market forecasts
FILE PHOTO: Vendors wearing face masks for protection against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) tend to their customers behind a plastic shield in a public market in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines, January 5, 2021. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez MANILA— Philippine annual inflation came in at 3.6per cent in December, the lowest level since December 2020, due to slower increases in the food and non-alcoholic beverages index, the country's statistics agency said on Wednesday. The headline figure was near the low end of the central bank's projected range of 3.5per cent-4.3per cent for the month, and below the 3.8per cent median forecast in a Reuters poll. Full-year inflation averaged 4.5per cent, outside the 2per cent-4per cent target band of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. (Reporting by Neil Jerome Morales and Enrico Dela [...]
Concern about level of water safety education after spate of drownings
There have been at least 25 water-related and suspected drownings since the start of December, including three yesterday. File photo Photo: 123rf Four drownings in the same section of the Manawatū River this past week have also prompted a push for better water safety education. Ahimate Reserve, in Palmerston North, used to be a popular place for people to swim but signage now warned people away from the water. A rāhui, which restricts the use of an area, was put in place after 11- year-old Blae Ler Paw and 25-year-old Mu Mu went missing on Wednesday, 29 December 2021. Two other men drowned on Sunday. Palmerston North City mayor Grant Smith said the four deaths were a "tragedy" and he was also disappointed some people were still choosing [...]
Covid-19 update: 17 new community cases in New Zealand, 23 in MIQ
There are 17 new community cases of Covid-19 in New Zealand today, and 23 at the border, the Ministry of Health says. Photo: 123rf In a statement, the Health Ministry said there were 44 people in hospital, including five in intensive care. It said there was no further spread of Omicron in the community after a third-border related case with the variant was reported yesterday. There are still no locations of interest or exposure events and the risk to the community from this case has been determined as "extremely low". The 17 new community cases are in Auckland (5), Waikato (3), Bay of Plenty (9). There were also two new cases in Taranaki which will be officially added to tomorrow's tally. The Emergency Department at Taranaki Base Hospital [...]
Australia’s Covid-19 cases pass 500k as infections surge
Australia has passed the grim milestone of more than 500,000 Covid-19 cases since the pandemic began. People arrive to be vaccinated for Covid-19 at the Qudos Bank Arena NSW Health Vaccination Centre in Sydney, Australia. (Source: Getty) The mark was passed on Tuesday after both NSW and Victoria registered record daily case numbers. NSW had 23,131 new cases, with a further two deaths. The state has 1344 patients in hospital, up by 139 from the day before, with 105 in intensive care, up by 10. There were 14,020 cases in Victoria, the first time the state has recorded a one-day total of above 10,000. There were another two deaths in the state, with 516 patients in hospital - a rise of 25 - while there are four more [...]
BBM-Sara campaign headquarters temporarily closed after staff members test positive for COVID-19
Metro Manila, Philippines — The campaign headquarters of the Bongbong Marcos-Sara Duterte tandem has been temporarily closed after more than 20 staff members tested positive for COVID-19, Marcos’ spokesperson said on Monday. According to lawyer Vic Rodriguez, the headquarters in Mandaluyong City was ordered shut down by Marcos from Jan. 3 until further notice to ensure the safety of personnel and supporters. The Bongbong-Sara Uniteam has also postponed all public appearances, sorties, and assemblies until Jan. 15 in light of the infections. However, Rodriguez said campaign preparations and other administrative functions will continue through virtual arrangements. “The UniTeam also advises all its supporters nationwide to exercise self-restraint and avoid holding unilateral campaign/political activities that might result in the further surge of COVID-19 cases in their areas,” he said in a statement. [...]
Singapore’s economy grew 7.2% in 2021, rebounding from recession the previous year: MTI advance estimates
People walk across the Jubilee bridge in Singapore on December 28,2021. (File Photo: AFP/Roslan RAHMAN) SINGAPORE— Singapore's economy grew 7.2 per cent in 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, rebounding from a recession in 2020, advance estimates released by the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) on Monday (Jan 3) showed. Singapore's economy shrank 5.4 per cent in 2020 – its first annual contraction since 2001 and the country's worst recession since independence. Last year, Singapore announced the start of its transition to living with endemic COVID-19 as it saw a wave of new infections driven by the more infectious Delta variant. Its vaccination programme was ramped up to include booster shots and more age groups, and new measures were also introduced to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The estimates announced on [...]
Groceries, petrol and rent: The everyday costs keeping Aussies awake at night in 2022
Keeping the car running, a roof over your head and a trolley full of food are the main financial concerns keeping Aussies awake at night as the cost of living threatens to blow out of control in 2022. New data from Canstar's 2021 Consumer Pulse Report found that most Australians are worried about ordinary living expenses rising to an unmanageable level over the next twelve months. According to the report, which surveyed 2000 Australian adults, the biggest financial pain points were the price of groceries (14 per cent), petrol prices (11 per cent) and the rising cost of rent (10 per cent). Ordinary living expenses - such as buying groceries - are stretching household budgets to the absolute limit. (AAP) The proportion of Australians who said they were living [...]
Covid-19 update: 31 new community cases in New Zealand
There are 31 new community cases of Covid-19 and 29 new cases of the virus at the border reported in New Zealand today. Photo: 123rf.com In a statement, the Ministry of Health said the new community cases were in Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Lakes. Yesterday, there were 27 new community cases of Covid-19 and 24 new cases reported at the border. The ministry also yesterday revealed that it would not be taking legal action against a UK musician who became the country's first reported community Omicron case last week.
Bulacan, Cavite, Rizal to be placed under Alert Level 3 on January 5
VIRUS-FREE? The shoppers are back in Divisoria, Manila, on Sunday, crowding around stalls but apparently forgetting to keep safe physical distancing. —MARIANNE BERMUDEZ MANILA, Philippines — Bulacan, Cavite, and Rizal — three provinces closest to Metro Manila — will be placed under the more stringent Alert Level 3 starting January 5, acting presidential spokesperson and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said on Tuesday, noting the spike in COVID-19 infections. “Due to a sharp increase of COVID-19 cases in the particular localities, the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) approved yesterday, January 3, 2022, the recommendation of its sub-Technical Working Group on Data Analytics to escalate Bulacan, Cavite, and Rizal to Alert Level 3,” he said in a statement. The heightened alert status will be imposed until January 15. Aside from these [...]
NZ Govt to spend $150m on abandoned Auckland bike bridge, alternative crossing options
The Government has set aside $150 million for an Auckland harbour crossing for cyclists and to also cover sunk costs arising from last year’s abandoned cycling and walking bridge project. In October, the Government scrapped a proposed $785m cycling and walking bridge in Auckland, just three months after unveiling it. As of late September, Waka Kotahi had spent $51m on designs, consultants and engineering plan fees. Now, the Government has agreed to direct $150m of the project’s original $785m budget to cover sunk costs and conduct further work to get a ferry or bus shuttle service up and running. Cabinet papers released on Christmas Eve show the Government re-considered the proposed Northern Pathway investment and agreed that the money set aside for the project should go towards a mix [...]
NZ seeing five times more temperature extremes than expected
New Zealand is experiencing temperature extremes four to five times more often than expected, according to NIWA. Summer at the beach (file image). (Source: istock.com) Researchers analysed 70 years worth of weather data across the country to see how frequently extreme events, such as record-breaking heatwaves, were occurring. The study – published in Weather and Climate, New Zealand – found that they are increasing at a much faster rate than the mean average temperature, NIWA said in a media release. On average, the country saw four to five times more extreme high temperatures in the past decade than would be expected in a climate with no long-term warming. Even when climate change is taken into consideration, New Zealand still experienced two to three times more extreme high temperatures [...]
Five of world’s most powerful nations pledge to avoid nuclear war
US, Russia, China, the UK and France who are permanent members of the UN security council agree ‘nuclear war cannot be won’ UN security council meeting on ‘Peace and Security Through Preventive Diplomacy: A Common Objective to All UN Principal Organs,’ at the UN headquarters in New York on 17 November 2021.Photograph: Xinhua/REX/Shutterstock Five of the world’s most powerful nations have agreed that “a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought” in a rare joint pledge to reduce the risk of such a conflict ever starting. The pledge was signed by the US, Russia, China, the UK and France, the five nuclear weapons states recognised by the 1968 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) who are also the five permanent members of the UN security council. They [...]
T-cells can fight Omicron when antibodies fail to, Australian researchers say
New study finds the white cells attack new Covid variant, offering protection and helping prevent significant illness T-cells have been found to be effective as a second line of defence against the Omicron coronavirus variant. Photograph: AP Human bodies have a second line of defence against Covid that offers hope in the global fight against the Omicron variant, Australian researchers say. University of Melbourne research, done in conjunction with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, has found T-cells should be able to tackle the virus. Omicron has a higher number of mutations than other variants, which means it can sometimes slip past the antibodies produced by vaccination or infection. But if it does enter the body, the T-cells – white blood cells that originate in the marrow [...]
Apple becomes first US company to reach $3tn valuation
New year trading pushed Apple shares to a new high of $182.80 after tripling in value in under four years Apple shares have risen by 38% since the start of 2021. Photograph: Mike Segar/Reuters Apple became the first US company to be valued at over $3tn on Monday as the tech company continued its phenomenal share price growth, tripling in value in under four years. A pandemic-era surge in tech stocks has driven the major US tech companies to new highs, pulling US stock markets with them. Apple became the world’sfirst trillion dollar company in August 2018, passed $2tn in 2020 and hit its new high as trading began after the holidays and its shares passed $182.80 a piece before dipping lower to end the day valued at over [...]
Mass testing pushed as PH logs 4,600 new COVID-19 cases
People visit a park in Quezon City, east of Manila on New Year’s Day on January 1, 2022. (Photo by Jam STA ROSA / AFP) MANILA, Philippines — The surge in new COVID-19 cases due to the easing of quarantine restrictions during the Christmas holidays picked up pace as the Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday reported 4,600 new infections, or almost double in just the past three days. About one in five of the 26,122 individuals tested on Dec. 31 was infected, raising the country’s positivity rate to a high 19.6 percent, according to the DOH. This was up by nearly twentyfold from only 0.9 percent only 11 days ago and way above the 5-percent threshold of the World Health Organization to indicate that the spread of [...]
Thousands of Australians are isolating with Covid. Here’s how some of them are coping
While some have felt ‘lucky’ at their situation, others have ended up in debt or without the care they normally receive Some people with chronic illness or disability have been left with little to no support as carers and friends are forced to isolate while sick or awaiting results. Photograph: golibo/Getty Images/iStockphoto Something about the sticky floors of the dingy nightclub Gemma Moore was at on the New South Wales central coast gave her the sense she was about to get sick. “It was a good night, but I just really didn’t feel comfortable being out,” Moore said. “There weren’t any QR codes and the staff weren’t wearing masks. And I remember thinking: someone in here has Covid.” A few days later, the 28-year-old care worker’s hunch proved correct [...]
Covid-19 update: 27 new community cases in New Zealand
There are 27 new community cases of Covid-19 and 24 new cases of the virus at the border reported in New Zealand today. Photo: 123rf.com In a statement, the Ministry of Health said none of the new cases at the border were the Omicron variant, and there were no new community cases of the variant either. Test reuslts for close contacts of the first reported case of the variant in the community have so far come back negative. Yesterday, there were 33 new cases at the border from the previous two days. The ministry said the growing number was a reflection on the increase in cases globally. Of the community cases, there are 12 in Auckland, seven in Waikato, seven in Bay of Plenty, and one in Lakes. [...]
Coronavirus: China struggling to hold back biggest COVID-19 outbreak since the first
A person gets tested in Xian. Photo credit: Getty Images China ended its final week of 2021 with its biggest tally of local coronavirus cases for any seven-day period since subduing the country's first epidemic nearly two years ago, despite an arsenal of some of the world's toughest COVID-19 measures. The National Health Commission reported on Saturday 175 new community infections with confirmed clinical symptoms for December 31, bringing the total number of local symptomatic cases in mainland China in the past week to 1151. The surge has been driven mostly by an outbreak in the northwestern industrial and tech hub of Xian, a city of 13 million. The deepening outbreak in Xian will likely firm authorities' resolve to curb transmissions quickly as and when cases emerge. The [...]
NSW records 18,278 new Covid-19 cases and two deaths as number of people in hospital tops 1000
The number of people being treated for Covid-19 in hospital in NSW has topped 1000 for the first time since 2 October after the state recorded 18,278 new cases. Health workers conduct PCR tests at the St Vincent's Bondi Beach Covid-19 drive through testing clinic in Sydney. Photo: AFP or licensors Hospitalisations have risen to 1066, up from 901 in the previous reporting period, with 83 patients in intensive care. There are five times as many people being treated for Covid-19 in the state's hospitals as there were in mid-December, although the number of people in intensive care has increased at a slower rate. Premier Dominic Perrottet last week said the health system "remains strong" and the state was in a "very strong position" despite the fast-growing case [...]
US airport chaos as more than 2,600 flights cancelled
A man leaves the baggage carrousel area at Ronald Reagan International Airport in Washington in December 2021 (Photo: AFP/ROBERTO SCHMIDT) WASHINGTON— Air travel continued to be severely disrupted in the United States on Saturday, with bad weather in parts of the country adding to the impact of a massive spike in Covid-19 infections fuelled by the Omicron variant. The United States had 2,604 cancelled flights, more than half of the 4,529 cancelled worldwide, shortly after 4:30pm (2130 GMT), according to tracking website FlightAware. In addition, 3,447 domestic flights were delayed on Saturday, out of a total of 7,602 worldwide for the day. The worst affected US airline was Southwest, which had to cancel 13 percent of its flight schedule, according to the site. In the United States, airports in [...]
Metro Manila now at high risk for COVID-19 transmission – OCTA Research
Metro Manila skyline by night (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / JILSON SECKLER TIU) MANILA, Philippines — Metro Manila is now at high-risk for COVID-19 transmission as its positivity rate has further increased to 28.03 percent, Dr. Guido David, a fellow at independent monitoring group OCTA Research said in a Twitter post on Saturday. The seven-day average positivity rate in Metro Manila increased from 1.15 percent recorded in the previous week to 12.94 percent, David said. David explained that the expected decrease in testing due to the holidays was “offset by the increase in positivity rate, which was at 21% just a day prior.” “This means the number of new cases will be in the same range of January 1, 2500 to 3000 in NCR and 3500 to 4000 [...]
Man dies following motorcycle crash in Northland
A man has died after a motorcycle went off the road in Kaipara, Northland, overnight. A file image of a police car. (Source: 1News) The incident occurred on State Highway 12 in Kaihū around 12.20am, police said. The motorcyclist died at the scene. His passenger received moderate injuries in the crash and was transported to Whangārei Hospital for treatment. The Serious Crash Unit is investigating.
NZ Covid-19 update: 105 new community cases, two further deaths in past two days
There have been 105 new community cases of Covid-19 reported in New Zealand over the past two days, with two further deaths also reported, the Ministry of Health says. Photo: 123RF There was no statement from the Ministry yesterday because it was New Year's Day. In today's statement it said there were 43 people in hospital, including five in intensive care. Two deaths of patients with Covid-19 in Auckland City Hospital have also been reported in the past 48 hours. "The Ministry would like to pass on its sympathies to the friends and whanau of the two patients." The new community cases reported over the past two days were in Auckland (71), Waikato (7), Bay of Plenty (22), Rotorua (4), Hawke's Bay (1). The Ministry said the Auckland [...]
Looking forward to 2022, China vows never to rest on what it has achieved, ready for a long way ahead
Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a New Year address in Beijing, China, December 31, 2021. /Xinhua As China strides toward the second centenary goal of building a great modern socialist country in all respects, 2022 will be another important year. "To ensure that everyone leads a better life, we must never rest on what we have achieved, and there is still a long way to go," said Chinese President Xi Jinping on the last day of 2021. Since the year 2014, Xi has delivered New Year addresses for nine consecutive years, leading the Chinese people to look back at achievements and looking to the journey ahead. China fulfills responsibility to history After sending greetings to the Chinese people, the president continued his address with describing the year 2021 [...]
2021 in review: Young Kiwis doing amazing things
As New Zealand looks back at an eventful year, one beacon of hope for 2022 and beyond is this country’s young people, as these Kiwis show. Student Volunteer Army's grocery delivery service. (Source: Supplied) Student Volunteer Army Even before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020, the Student Volunteer Army has stepped up time and time again whenever they’re needed. Soon after the virus made its way to New Zealand, the SVA mobilised to shop for those who couldn’t make a supermarket trip themselves. And as the impacts of Covid-19 continued into 2021, the SVA didn’t stop helping. In December, they hit a milestone: 3000 grocery deliveries over nearly two years. “Two years ago, we did not expect to become a grocery delivery organisation, but that’s [...]
Covid-19: WHO chief optimistic disease will be beaten in 2022
http:// What went wrong with vaccinating the world? Three experts explain The World Health Organization (WHO) chief says he is optimistic that the coronavirus pandemic will be defeated in 2022, provided countries work together to contain its spread. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesu warned against "narrow nationalism and vaccine hoarding" in a new year statement. His comments come two years since the WHO was first notified of cases of an unknown pneumonia strain in China. Global Covid cases now stand at 287m, while nearly 5.5m people have died. Across the world people are marking the new year but celebrations are muted, with many countries wanting to discourage crowds gathering. Coronavirus remains part of daily life: a disease that has shut borders, split families and in some places made [...]
Covid-19: Health Ministry prepares for booster dose demand
Auckland's biggest vaccination centre is reopening today, as thousands of New Zealanders become eligible for their booster dose this week. Photo: Screengrab The gap between the second dose and the time New Zealanders will be eligible for their booster dose will fall from six months to four months on Wednesday, meaning anyone aged 18 and over who had their second vaccination at least four months ago can have their booster dose. With two cases of Omicron in the community this week, Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield said the good news was that there was "clear evidence" that the Pfizer vaccine provides protection against Omicron. "We also know that a booster dose with Pfizer provides better protection against the Omicron variant than the two-dose course. "While two doses [...]
Small quake near Wellington this morning
A weak 3.2 magnitude earthquake hit near the Wellington region this morning. The quake was located 10km south-west of Wellington. Photo: Screenshot / GeoNet GeoNet says the quake struck at 10.21am and was at a depth of 15km. It was centred 10km south-west of Wellington and more than 700 people reported having felt it.
NCR placed under Alert Level 3 from Jan. 3 to 15, 2022
PHILIPPINES— The government's COVID-19 task force has placed the National Capital Region (NCR) under Alert Level 3 from January 3 to 15, 2022 following the sharp increase in new coronavirus infections in the country. At a press briefing in Davao City, acting presidential spokesperson Karlo Nograles said the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) made the decision as they projected cases to further increase in the coming days. He also cited the high possibility of the local transmission of the Omicron variant. Under Alert Level 3, several establishments will be allowed to operate at 30% indoor venue capacity only for fully vaccinated individuals and 50% outdoor venue capacity, provided that all employees are fully vaccinated. After a whole month of reporting less than 1,000 [...]
Restored Big Ben to bong again at midnight to bring in new year
Clock face will be revealed for first time since 2017 to show conservation work and restoration of original colour scheme Conservationists have reinstated a Prussian blue and gold colour scheme for Big Ben’s dials and clock hands. Photograph: Toby Melville/Reuters London’s public fireworks display may be cancelled, but Westminster’s new year revellers will be treated to Big Ben’s newly painted dials as the clock bongs 12 times to mark the end of 2021. The 96-metre clock tower above the Houses of Parliament, which houses the Great Bell known as Big Ben, has been mostly hidden from view since a £79.7m conservation projection began four years ago. For the first time since 2017, the clock face will be revealed to show the conservation work that has taken place, including [...]
Subdued celebrations ring in 2022 around the world
Australia seemed to buck the worldwide trend despite the omicron surge, with its prime minister telling people to “enjoy the evening.” Fireworks light up the sky over Sydney Harbour during New Year's Eve celebrations. Mark Evans / Getty Images HONK KONG — Another year, another variant. Much like delta last year, 2021 is ending with the emergence of a new form of the coronavirus, dashing hopes that the end of the pandemic might be in sight. And although so far the new variant, omicron, seems to have milder symptoms and lower rates of hospitalization and death, many countries around the world are erring on the side of caution and scaling back plans to ring in the New Year. A notable exception is Australia, where the annual fireworks show [...]
New Zealand rings in 2022 as New Year celebrations kick off around the planet
New Year celebrations have started to kick off around the planet after a rollercoaster 12 months. People are preparing to bid farewell – and perhaps good riddance – to 2021, but the pandemic hangs heavy over festivities. The Omicron variant is casting a shadow on New Year around the world, with populations hoping to get together with friends and family contending with varying levels of restrictions. Millions of Europeans will have to make do with scaled back events after restrictions were reintroduced across the continent. But the party is already well under way in New Zealand and the goons are on ice in Australia with a couple of hours to go until their countdown. Auckland has been lit up after the government gave the go ahead to celebrations in [...]
Ukraine tensions: Biden and Putin phone call seeks ‘diplomatic path’
EPA/The two presidents will speak over the phone amid ongoing tensions over Ukraine US President Joe Biden is set to hold talks with Russia's Vladimir Putin for the second time this month, in a bid to de-escalate tensions over Ukraine. The two leaders will speak by phone on Thursday. They will discuss forthcoming security talks between the countries and the situation in Europe, a White House official said. Russia, which has built up forces on the border with Ukraine, denies planning to invade the country. It says its troops are there for exercises, and that Russia is entitled to move its troops freely on its own soil. The US consulted European leaders ahead of the call to co-ordinate a common response to the issue, a White House statement [...]
All of NZ excluding Northland to move to Orange from 11.59pm
All of New Zealand, apart from Northland, will be moving to the Orange traffic light setting from 11.59pm on Thursday. Orange traffic light. (Source: istock.com) It means regions currently in Red — Auckland, Taupō and Rotorua Lakes Districts, Kawerau, Whakatane, Ōpōtiki Districts, Gisborne District, Wairoa District, Rangitikei, Whanganui and Ruapehu Districts — will move to Orange. Northland is set to stay at Red due to its comparatively lower Covid-19 vaccination rate, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said earlier this month. She noted that the Green setting allowed people to gather in high-risk areas no matter their vaccination status, and said it was “important to maintain confidence” with people through the transition. On not moving any area to Green, Ardern said that was “only for now through the transition [...]
Singapore, China reiterate commitment to free and open trade
Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat was joined by 13 other political office holders at a virtual press conference held after the 17th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) meeting. (Photo: Ministry of Communications and Information) SINGAPORE— Singapore and China on Wednesday (Dec 29) reiterated their commitment to free and open trade at an annual top-level bilateral meeting. The 17th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) meeting is the highest-level annual forum between China and Singapore. Held virtually for the second year amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it was co-chaired by Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat and Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng. A substantial number of 14 pacts ranging from finance to trade, sustainability and nature conservation were signed this year. A statement from the Prime Minister’s [...]
Hipkins ‘very disappointed’ Omicron-infected DJ didn’t follow rules
Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins says he's very disappointed the British DJ at the centre of an Omicron community scare didn't follow isolation rules properly. The Ministry of Health confirmed yesterday the recent international arrival completed 10 days of isolation, but did not wait for the final test result before going out into the community, and subsequently tested positive for the Omicron variant. Last night, DJ Dimension outed himself in a social media post as New Zealand's first community Omicron case. The DJ, Robert Etheridge, had been scheduled to perform at the Rhythm and Alps festival in Wanaka. He had visited a number of Auckland CBD locations on 26 and 27 December, including the Impala nightclub on Shortland Street, the Sunny town restaurant, Partridge jewellers, Ahi Restaurant and Soul [...]
PH President Duterte OKs P5K gratuity pay for JO, COS workers in gov’t for 2021
President Rodrigo Duterte speaks to the crowd in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Screenshot from PCOO / Facebook MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the granting of a one-time P5,000 gratuity pay to contract of service (COS) and job order (JO) government workers for 2021. Under Administrative Order No. 46, which Duterte signed on Wednesday, workers who have rendered a total or aggregate of at least four months of service as of Dec. 15 can avail of the P5,000 gratuity pay. Those who have rendered less than four months of service, meanwhile, may receive their gratuity pay on a pro-rata basis. Actual service refers to services rendered on-site, the order read. All workers in national agencies, state universities and colleges, government-owned or -controlled corporations, and local water districts [...]
PH Vice President Robredo in quarantine after COVID-19 exposure
Vice President Leni Robredo said Wednesday that she is in quarantine following exposure to a COVID-19 case. "I received a call last night that one of my close in security tested positive for COVID-19. So ngayon, naka-quarantine ako [I am now in quarantine]," Robredo said in a Facebook live video. "Our protocol in the office is to go on quarantine for seven days, kaya hanggang after New Year pa [My quarantine period will end after New Year]," Robredo added. Robredo is fully vaccinated with the two-dose COVID-19 vaccine AstraZeneca and received her Moderna COVID-19 booster shot this month. Robredo said this marks the second time she has been exposed to a COVID-19 case, with the first incident also involving another member of her close in security testing positive for [...]
PH population growth lowest in 75 years
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine population is projected to increase by merely 0.3 percent or 324,000 in 2021, according to the Commission on Population and Development (Popcom). Popcom, in a statement, said that this annual “natural increase” is the lowest since the period between 1946 and 1947, when the population grew by 254,000. “As such, Filipinos will number 109,991,095 at the end of 2021—lower by 2 million than earlier projections based on a 1.63-percent population growth rate or PGR.” Popcom executive director Dr. Juan Perez III explained that Filipinos remain prudent by continuing to delay having children or forming families during the combined economic crisis and COVID-19 health emergency. “Couples in growing numbers continue to avail of family planning commodities and services in all regions of the country, with [...]
Matamata crash: Three children still in critical condition in Waikato, Starship hospitals
Three of five children involved in a car crash on a country road between Matamata and Morrinsville are still fighting for their lives in hospital. The crash happened shortly before midnight on Monday on Morrinsville-Walton Rd. The single vehicle crash happened after a Nissan Tiida veered off the road and flipped into a ditch. Five youngsters aged between 10 and 13 were in the car. At least three were thrown from the vehicle in the impact. All were helicoptered or taken by ambulance to Waikato Hospital. Two remain in a critical condition in that hospital, while a third, also in a critical condition, was transferred to Auckland’s Starship Hospital on Monday. It is not known if anyone will be charged in relation to the crash, and how the children [...]
Hong Kong police arrest six from online media outlet
Hong Kong said they arrested three men and three women on Dec 29, 2021. PHOTO: AFP HONG KONG— Hong Kong's Police National Security Department said early on Wednesday (Dec 29) it had arrested six current or former senior staff from an online media firm "for conspiracy to publish seditious publication". Hong Kong broadcaster TVB said the six are from pro-democracy news website Stand News. A Reuters witness saw at least four police vans outside the media firm's office. Police said in a statement that they had arrested three men and three women, aged 34 to 73, and that searches of their homes were underway. Stand News said one of those arrested was Mr Ronson Chan, its deputy assignment editor who is also the head of the Hong Kong Journalists [...]
Cities around the world pare back New Year celebrations again due to Covid-19
A number of Dec 31 events have been cancelled in countries where caseloads are rising swiftly. PHOTO: REUTERS As the Omicron variant drives coronavirus infection rates to their highest levels of the pandemic in many parts of the world, major cities have scaled down or cancelled New Year's Eve events for a second consecutive year. Only months ago, expanding Covid-19 vaccinations and loosening travel rules had promised a return of raucous New Year gatherings amid hopes that the pandemic might finally be waning. But the emergence of Omicron - the highly transmissible variant that is now fuelling record surges in many nations - has prompted governments to reinstate travel restrictions, mask mandates and bans on large gatherings. Even as early studies suggest that Omicron produces less severe illness, [...]
Support for legalising marijuana in Australia nearly doubles over six years
More than 40% of Australians back legalisation of cannabis for personal use, National Drug Strategy Household Survey finds A marijuana plant. The National Drug Strategy Household Survey found 41.1% support for legalising cannabis in 2019, up from 25.5% in 2013. Photograph: Richard Vogel/AP Over 40% of Australians believe marijuana should be legalised, a figure that has nearly doubled since 2013, according to new analysis. Australian researchers have looked into changes in public attitudes towards drug use over time, as measured by responses to the National Drug Strategy Household Survey. The nationally representative surveys, last conducted in 2019, have been collating data on drug use and attitudes every two to three years since 1985. A review of the survey data showed that 41.1% of respondents supported the legalisation of [...]
CDC: people who test positive for Covid with no symptoms should isolate just five days
Authorities change guidelines based on ‘what we know about the spread’ and protection from vaccination, as expert warns US ‘being hit by a viral hurricane’ A middle school principal walks the empty halls of his school on 20 August 2021 in Wrightsville, Georgia. Photograph: Stephen B Morton/AP US health authorities have halved, to five days, the recommended isolation time for people with asymptomatic Covid. The US is facing a huge surge in Covid cases, driven by the Omicron variant, which contributed to travel chaos over Christmas and stoked worries about damage to the economy and education. One expert told the New York Times: “All 50 states are in the soup at the same time. It’s like every state is being hit by a viral hurricane.” But in a [...]
46 new community Covid-19 cases, 17 Omicron cases in MIQ
There are 46 new Covid-19 cases in the community on Wednesday, and 17 Omicron cases have been recorded at the border, the Ministry of Health has announced. Covid-19 testing clinic sign. (Source: istock.com) The community cases are in Northland (3), Auckland (30), Waikato (6), Lakes (4), Tairāwhiti (2) and Canterbury (1). The total number of Omicron cases detected at the border is now 71. The ministry said the Tairāwhiti cases were reported on Sunday, December 26, but were unable to be added to official numbers until Wednesday due to "data reporting issues". Forty-eight people are in hospital with the virus, including seven in an intensive care or high dependency unit. Northland's three new cases are located in Hokianga. They are all from the same household and are linked [...]
UK reports record new Covid-19 cases after Johnson rules out restrictions
Britain has reported a record 129,471 new cases of Covid-19, one day after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he would not bring in new restrictions to limit the spread of the virus this year. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson says he will not introduce new restrictions in England. Photo: AFP The data did not include figures for Scotland and Northern Ireland due to differences in reporting practices over the Christmas holidays. The 12,378 cases reported for Wales included data that would normally have been reported in previous days. The previous record high of daily infections was 122,186 on December 24. Yesterday, Johnson said he would not introduce new restrictions in England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have all tightening their rules, as have other European countries facing a [...]
Keri Hulme, titan of NZ literature and the country’s first Booker Prize winner, has died
Keri Hulme, photographed whitebaiting on the beach at Ōkārito on the West Coast in 1987, two years after she won the Booker Prize, has died at the age of 74. Novelist Keri Hulme, an icon of New Zealand literature and the first Kiwi to win the Booker Prize, has died. The West Coast writer and poet died just before noon on Monday at her home in Waimate, South Canterbury, at the age of 74. Hulme’s nephew, Matthew Salmons, said that despite her success, she never sought fame or adoration. “There were stories of her being this literary giant,” he told Stuff. “It wasn't really something that she discussed. “It was never about fame for her, she’s always been a storyteller. It was never about the glitz and glam, [...]
Elon Musk criticised after China space complaint to UN
IMAGE SOURCE, GETTY IMAGES Elon Musk is facing a social media backlash after China complained that its space station was forced to avoid collisions with satellites launched by his Starlink Internet Services project. The country's space station had two "close encounters" with Starlink satellites, Beijing claimed. China's complaints, lodged with the UN's space agency, have not yet been independently verified. Starlink is a satellite internet network operated by Mr Musk's SpaceX. Mr Musk is well known in China even as his electric carmaker Tesla comes under growing scrutiny from regulators. The incidents occurred on 1 July and 21 October, according to a document submitted by China this month to the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. "For safety reasons, the China Space Station implemented preventive collision avoidance [...]
Palma to limit cruise ships after environmental concerns
Spanish officials hail ‘historic’ deal to limit arrivals to maximum of three vessels a day at Mallorca port Palma port in Mallorca, Spain, is among the busiest cruise ports in the Mediterranean.Photograph: Enrique Calvo/Reuters Officials in the Balearic Islands will seek to limit cruise ships to a maximum of three vessels a day at its largest port, in a deal described as the first of its kind in Spain. The regional government said in a statement that arrivals at Palma in Mallorca would be limited when possible to three cruise ships a day, one of the vessels allowed to be a mega-cruise liner carrying more than 5,000 people, starting in 2022. Calling the deal historic, officials estimated it would result in a 13% drop in arrivals at one of [...]
Covid-19: Sydney lab confirms hundreds in testing bungle tested positive
The Australian state of New South Wales has recorded another 6062 Covid-19 cases and one death, as a Sydney lab confirms hundreds of people who it sent premature negative results have tested positive. Health workers conduct PCR tests at the St Vincent's Bondi Beach Covid-19 drive through testing clinic. Photo: AFP Hospitalizations in the state have risen to 557, up from 521 in the previous reporting period. There are now 60 patients in intensive care. The latest figures were taken from more than 93,581 tests in the 24 hours to 8pm on Monday. Meanwhile, St Vincent's Hospital, which operates pathology unit SydPath, has confirmed about half of the 950 people who received premature texts advising they had tested negative for Covid-19 have actually tested positive. "SydPath can confirm [...]
Covid-19 update: 18 new community cases, 1 death, 5 cases of Omicron in MIQ
One person has died from the coronavirus and there are 18 new community cases of Covid-19 today. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver A woman in her 70s has died from Covid-19 last night at Middlemore Hospital. It is the 51st death in New Zealand of someone with the coronavirus since the pandemic began. Of today's 18 cases, 13 are in Auckland, three in Waikato, one in Bay of Plenty, and one in Lakes. There are 54 people with Covid-19 in hospital, including eight in ICU or HDU. The average age of current hospitalisations is 51. Of the hospitalisations, 19 are in Auckland City Hospital, seven in North Shore, 22 in Middlemore, three in Tauranga, two in Rotorua and one in Waikato. In MIQ, there are 16 new cases, [...]
PH neutral on China-Taiwan row
PHILIPPINES— President Rodrigo Duterte said his administration will remain neutral amid the escalating conflict between China and Taiwan. Duterte said he was relieved that there is no tension in the West Philippine Sea as it allowed the military and police to provide necessary assistance to victims affected by Typhoon "Odette". "Mabuti na lang wala pang gulo dito sa (It's good that there is no trouble yet at the) South China Sea," he said in a command conference with local officials and military officials in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Thursday and aired on state-run PTV-4 on Saturday. Should tensions arise, he said he will not go to war with China. "Kung sabihin nila na mag-gulo sila tapos gamitin, eh (If they start to cause trouble here), I would never allow [...]
Australia records first Omicron COVID-19 death, authorities stick to reopening plan
Travellers receive tests for COVID-19 at a pre-departure testing facility outside the international terminal at Sydney Airport in Sydney, Australia, Nov 29, 2021. (Photo: Reuters/Loren Elliott) SYDNEY— Australia on Monday (Dec 27) reported its first confirmed death from the new Omicron variant of COVID-19 amid another surge in daily infections, but the authorities refrained from imposing new restrictions saying hospitalisation rates remained low. The death, a man in his 80s with underlying health conditions, marked a grim milestone for the country which has had to pause some parts of a staged reopening after nearly two years of stop-start lockdowns, due to the fresh outbreak. Omicron, which health experts say appears more contagious but less virulent than previous strains, began to spread in the country just as it lifted restrictions [...]
Asia stocks, oil struggle as Omicron worries weigh
A man looks at stock market monitors in Taipei, Jan 22, 2008. (File photo: Reuters/Nicky Loh) TOKYO— Asian stock markets were generally weaker with US crude in holiday-thinned trading on Monday (Dec 27), as uncertainty over the economic impact of the Omicron coronavirus variant weighed on investor sentiment. US airlines have cancelled or delayed thousands of flights over the past three days due to COVID-19-related staff shortages, while several cruise ships had to cancel stops after outbreaks on board. In Asia, China reported its highest daily rise in local COVID-19 cases in 21 months over the weekend as infections more than doubled in the northwestern city of Xian, the country's latest COVID-19 hot spot. Japan's Nikkei lost 0.20 per cent while South Korea's Kospi fell 0.11 per cent. Mainland [...]
House prices in Auckland’s Papakura rocket by 41% in 2021
House prices in south Auckland’s Papakura rose more than any other district in or near a main centre this year, says the latest QV Quartile Index. The rising costs are the latest in a string of headline-making figures that demonstrate the relentless rise of house prices the country has been subject to in 2021. According to the QV Quartile Index, over the 11 months from January 1 to November 30, Papakura experienced a 41 per cent increase in “first home” values – properties at the lower end of the market, more likely to be sought out by first home buyers. QV QUARTILE INDEX/SUPPLIED QV Quartile Index showing percentage house price increases Jan-Nov 2021 in or around main centres. Christchurch followed closely behind with a 37.7 per cent increase, [...]
2021 in review: Another busy year in space
Blood moons, billionaires, and boisterous debates about orbital debris — a lot has happened in space in 2021. Jeff Bezos in July 2021, after taking a ride on the Blue Origin New Shephard flight. 1News spoke to Stardome Observatory and Planetarium astronomy educator Josh Kirkley about some of the most memorable moments in space this year. Billionaires blast off After a promising 2020, the shift toward the privatisation of space flights continued into 2021. Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic, Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin, and Elon Musk’s SpaceX were among the companies leading the year’s most high-profile manned suborbital space flights. While the missions were hailed as another leap toward space tourism and travel by amateurs, they also attracted criticism. Kirkley said that the notion of the ultra-rich blasting off [...]
PH still needs 7M fully vaxxed to achieve population protection
(File photo) MANILA – The Philippines still needs to fully vaccinate seven million Filipinos by the end of the month to meet its target of 54 million and achieve population protection this year. Based on the data from the national Covid-19 vaccination dashboard, the Philippines, as of Saturday, has administered a total of 105,329,784 doses of vaccines nationwide, with 47,109,449 Filipinos now fully protected and 1,365,827 others have received their booster shots. Due to the onslaught of Typhoon Odette, the country's average daily vaccination rate has decreased to 675,567 doses. Despite a few setbacks on the vaccination program, Presidential Adviser on Covid-19 response Vivencio Dizon earlier said the government remains optimistic that the targeted 54 million fully vaccinated is still achievable with more [...]
Covid-19 update: 126 new community cases over past two days
There have been 126 community cases reported in New Zealand over the past two days, the Ministry of Health has confirmed. Photo: 123RF There was no Covid-19 information released yesterday. In a statement this afternoon, the Ministry said there were 47 people in hospital, with seven people in ICU. There are two people in Waikato Hospital and four in Tauranga, with the rest in Auckland. The new community cases reported today were in Auckland (88), Waikato (17), Bay of Plenty (6), Lakes (13), Taranaki (1) and Northland (1). There are also two cases reported in Gisborne, which were announced by Tairāwhiti DHB on Thursday afternoon and will be formally added to the official tally tomorrow due to "Tairāwhiti data reporting issues". The cases are linked to a case in [...]
Ex-South Korean president Park Geun-hye, serving time for corruption, granted pardon
A file photo of former South Korean leader Park Geun-hye at a court in Seoul in 2017. She is set to be released at the end of the year. PHOTO: REUTERS SEOUL - Disgraced former South Korean president Park Geun-hye, now serving a 22-year jail term for corruption and power abuse, is set to walk free on the last day of the year. The Justice Ministry, in what experts deem as a surprise but calculated move, announced on Friday (Dec 23) that she was granted a presidential pardon, partly due to her deteriorating health. Park, 69, is now warded at Samsung Medical Centre in southern Seoul due to chronic shoulder and back pain, poor mental health and even dental issues. She is expected to be released directly from there. [...]
Western states need united front against divisive China: Trudeau
Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks during Question Period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Dec 15, 2021. (Photo: REUTERS/Blair Gable) TORONTO— Western countries should have a united front against China to prevent the Asian state from using commercial interests to play them against each other, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in an interview aired on Saturday (Dec 25). Trudeau said China has been "playing" Western countries against one another as they compete for access to economic opportunities in the country. "We've been competing and China has been, from time to time, very cleverly playing us off each other in an open market, competitive way," he said in an interview with Global television. "We need to do a better job of working [...]
Body found in South Auckland home at end of tense standof
A homicide investigation is underway after a man was found dead in a South Auckland home at the conclusion of a dramatic standoff where police climbed through a window to rescue people. Police said in a statement the serious incident in Bezar Place, Flat Bush, had been resolved. (Source: 1News) At about 1.15am on Boxing Day, police said they received an emergency call from a resident on Bezar Place in Flat Bush who heard gunshots. Armed Offender Squad members were among officers to respond, climbing through a window in the home before safely taking out several occupants from, including a child. Negotiators then made contact with a 38-year-old man inside the home and continued to engage with him as the morning continued, Detective Inspector Fa'amanuia Va'aelua of [...]
Christmas Day around the world: In pictures
Around the world Christmas celebrations are being held, some date back to a historical figure born 2000 years ago, some involve fun with family and friends, and some incorporate elephants and tractors. Snow sculptors building the main snow sculpture on Christmas Eve at the Harbin Sun Island Snow Sculpture Exposition in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. Photo: AFP/ Xinhua News Agency. Church services and ceremonies are being held throughout the world to mark the birth of Jesus Christ, the historical figure whose life and teachings Christianity was founded on. Christians light candles, sing carols, and retell the nativity story of Jesus' untimely birth as his parents were taking shelter in stables in Bethlehem during a cross country trek because of a census. The Bishop of Arras, Olivier Leborgne (centre), [...]
Filipino family to be deported on Christmas for mistake made in ‘desperation’
When Jeffrey Santos is asked how he’s going to make Christmas Day special for his 8-year-old son James, he wells up with tears. Santos, his wife Marjorie, and their son will be deported on December 25 back to Pampanga, in the Philippines, for what he says was a crime of “desperation to feed his family”. Santos used a false address to claim $1600 worth of food vouchers during 2020’s Covid-19 lockdown because he was out of work and out of money, he said. He was ineligible for help like the income relief payment, which was not available to migrant workers. Despite numerous appeals to stay and prove his character, and eight flight cancellations, the Santos family had to leave New Zealand. Christmas Day would be a struggle, he said. [...]
Covid-19 update: 56 new community cases in New Zealand today
There are 56 new cases of Covid-19 in the community today, the Ministry of Health has confirmed. Photo: 123rf.com In a statement, the Ministry said the new cases were in Auckland (42), Waikato (4), Bay of Plenty (6), Rotorua (2), Taranaki (1), and Tairāwhiti (1). The one new case in Taranaki is linked to the Eltham cluster and is understood to have been self-isolating during their infectious period. The two Rotorua cases are household contacts, and three of the six new cases in the Bay of Plenty today have also been linked to earlier cases. There are 48 people with the coronavirus in hospital, including seven in ICU. There were also four cases reported at the border today. There have now been 10,432 cases in the current community [...]
Covid-19 numbers continue to skyrocket in NSW with 5715 new cases
New South Wales has once again reported skyrocketing daily case numbers as the seven-day average for hospitalisations continues rise in Victoria. Health workers conduct PCR tests at the St Vincent's Bondi Beach Covid-19 drive through testing clinic on 22 December. Photo: AFP or licensors NSW has recorded 5,715 new Covid-19 cases as the number of people being admitted to hospital with the virus continues to rise. It is the highest number of daily Covid-19 infections recorded in any Australian jurisdiction, and a rise of 1,952 from yesterday when the state recorded 3,763 cases. Hospitalisations for Covid have risen to 347, up from 302 in the previous reporting day, with 45 patients in ICU. Premier Dominic Perrottet yesterday announced he would reintroduce QR code check-ins and also appears set [...]
Pillar of Shame: Hong Kong’s Tiananmen Square statue removed
REUTERS Construction workers worked overnight to remove the statue A famous statue at the University of Hong Kong commemorating the Tiananmen Square massacre has been removed. Construction workers worked overnight behind plastic barriers to dismantle the 8m (26ft) copper statue. The statue, called the Pillar of Shame, shows piled-up corpses to commemorate pro-democracy protesters killed by Chinese authorities in 1989. The university ordered its removal in October, and said officials had decided on Wednesday to take it down. "The decision on the aged statue was based on external legal advice and risk assessment for the best interest of the university," it said in a statement. It added: "The university is also very concerned about the potential safety issues resulting from the fragile statue." The artwork - which features [...]
China offers more assistance to Philippine typhoon victims
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian (1st R) attends the handover ceremony for China-donated rice in Pasay City, the Philippines, Dec. 22, 2021. China offered 1 million U.S. dollars in cash and another 4,725 tons of rice on Wednesday to help the victims of Typhoon Rai in the Philippines. (Xinhua/Liu Kai) MANILA, PH-- China offered 1 million U.S. dollars in cash and another 4,725 tons of rice on Wednesday to help the victims of Typhoon Rai in the Philippines. Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian announced the assistance at the handover ceremony of the rice, the last batch of the 10,000 tons that China donated to the Philippines. The emergency cash assistance is to support the relief and recovery efforts of the Philippine government and people against [...]
Marcos-Duterte tandem leads latest Pulse Asia voter preference survey
Metro Manila, PH — The tandem of presidential aspirant Bongbong Marcos and vice presidential hopeful Sara Duterte emerged as the top choice in the latest election survey conducted by Pulse Asia. Results released Wednesday showed 53% of survey respondents expressed support for Marcos, who faces a string of petitions against his 2022 bid. This is a big lead from Vice President Leni Robredo, who came in second with a rating of 20%. Placing third in the survey was Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and Senator Manny Pacquiao with 8% each. Senator Ping Lacson, meanwhile, completed the top five as the presidential bet of 6% of the respondents. Based on the breakdown of votes, Marcos got the majority of support in all of the country's major island groups, but he secured the [...]
Omicron threat: Border delays a blow to New Zealanders stuck overseas
The decision to delay re-opening the borders has dealt another blow to New Zealanders stuck overseas and desperate to return home. Kiwis overseas poised to move back to New Zealand have been left disappointed by the government announcement of border opening dates being pushed back. Photo: 123RF The threat of Omicron has prompted the government to push back the start of its staged shift from managed isolation in a hotel to self-isolation at home from mid-January to the end of February, and the period in MIQ has increased from seven days to 10. It's the latest roadblock for Kiwis abroad and the Christmas news no one wanted to hear. New Zealand citizens Susan Thomas and her husband have their bags packed, a beachside home to move into and [...]
Covid-19 update: 56 new community cases, 51 people in hospital
There are 56 new community cases of Covid-19 today and 51 people are in hospital. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone In a statement, the Health Ministry also confirmed there was a new case in the Wellington region, after several locations of interest in Hutt Valley were identified. The ministry said six new cases of Omicron have now been detected in recent returnees, bringing the total number of international arrivals in MIQ with the Omicron variant to 28. It said of the 45 Covid-19 cases that have been detected at the New Zealand border since the start of the month, 28 were the Omicron variant. The 51 cases in hospital include two in Waikato and one in Tauranga, with the rest in Auckland hospitals. Today's new community cases were [...]
Hong Kong election: China rejects democracy concerns from West
China has hit back at criticism from Western nations over the Hong Kong election, accusing them of interfering in its affairs. Hong Kong's legislature vote on Sunday saw more than 90% of the seats available go to pro-Beijing candidates. Prior to the vote China had made sweeping changes to Hong Kong's electoral system, including a rule that allowed Beijing to vet candidates. Several nations said the poll had eroded democracy in Hong Kong. On Monday, following the results of the poorly-attended election, the foreign ministers of the UK, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand said China's new rules had "eliminated any meaningful political opposition". "Since the handover, candidates with diverse political views have contested elections in Hong Kong. This election has reversed the trend," said the group, also [...]
Japan hangs three in first use of capital punishment in two years
Japan hanged three death-row inmates on Tuesday, its first executions in two years, amid growing criticism by human rights groups of the country's use of the death penalty. One of the three, Yasutaka Fujishiro, was convicted of killing seven people and setting fire to their house in 2004, while the other two, Tomoaki Takanezawa and Mitsunori Onogawa, were convicted in the 2003 killings of two pinball parlour employees. Executions are carried out in high secrecy in Japan, where prisoners are not informed of their fate until the morning they are hanged. Since 2007, Japan has begun disclosing the names of those executed and some details of their crimes, but information is still limited. Justice Minister Yoshihisa Furukawa said the three inmates had committed 'extremely ghastly' crimes. (AP) Justice Minister [...]
State of calamity declared in six regions in PH due to typhoon ‘Rai’
President Rodrigo Duterte has declared a state of calamity in Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga - regions that suffered the wrath of Typhoon Odette. (FILE PHOTO) METRO MANILA, PH — President Rodrigo Duterte has declared a state of calamity in Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga - regions that suffered the wrath of Typhoon Rai (PH name: Odette). In his weekly address aired Tuesday night, Duterte signed the declaration recommended by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). A state of calamity would allow local governments to tap their respective calamity funds to help typhoon-hit communities. Duterte said the declaration would also allow price controls on commodities in devastated areas, as well as hasten rescue [...]
Investor warns of share buying risk amid US-China tensions
A local retail investor is warning about the risks of buying shares in Chinese companies listed on US stock exchanges following the delisting of a major firm. A trader works on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on 20 December 2021. Photo: AFP / 2021 Getty Images Chinese ride-sharing giant Didi recently announced it was delisting from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), with some analysts saying it was bending to Chinese regulators angered by its share float in the US earlier this year. Growing political tensions between China and the US had also seen American authorities ban US entities from trading shares in companies that are believed to be controlled by the Chinese military. The decision by Didi to delist prompted concerns other Chinese [...]
France to introduce vaccination pass in early January as Omicron spreads
A demonstrator holds a placard that reads "No to the health passport" as people attend a demonstration called by French political party "Les Patriotes" against COVID-19 health pass as France sees an increase in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases and hospitalisations, in Paris, France, December 18, 2021. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier PARIS— France will pass a law transforming its health pass needed to exercise some professions and to go to cinemas and bars into a "vaccination" pass in the first half of January, the government said on Tuesday (Dec 21). "The wave awaiting us will be high," government spokesman Gabriel Attal told journalists, adding that the Omicron variant accounts for 20 per cent of new COVID-19 infections in France and is spreading rapidly, particularly in the Paris region. He added that in [...]
Malls, NZ Post keeping up with busy Christmas period in Covid-19 restrictions
It's the home stretch to Christmas and shoppers are flocking to malls eager to snag last-minute deals while others are keeping NZ Post extremely busy with deliveries. Photo: 123RF At Sylvia Park, one of Aotearoa's largest shopping hubs, centre manager Helen Roland told Morning Report it had been getting busier with Christmas around the corner. "We've been in lockdown for months, but it's been picking up every week that we've been coming back since the 9th of November. So it's getting busier and busier." She said things were different this year. There were no queues for the Santa Centre, instead people needed to book a spot online. "It's a different set up and everyone's got masks on and everybody's being very sensitive. "They seem to be very shopping very [...]
Boy, 12, charged with murder in Northland
A 12-year-old boy has been charged with murder in Northland. Police. Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson The victim, Ōkaihau local Michael John Biggins, 62, was found in a car crashed into a paddock and died at the scene. Detective senior sergeant Mark Dalzell said the child is the second person charged. A 15-year-old has also been charged with murder over Biggins' death.
Covid-19: 69 new community cases, nine new cases of Omicron variant in MIQ
There are 69 new cases of Covid-19 in the community today, and nine further cases of the Omicron variant in international arrivals. (File photo). Photo: RNZ / Simon Rogers In a statement, the Ministry of Health said the total number of cases with the Omicron variant in the country is now at 22. All remain in managed isolation with the exception of one case who has recovered. Today's community cases include 59 in Auckland, seven in Waikato, two in Bay of Plenty, and one in Taranaki. There are 62 cases in hospital today, including 11 in North Shore, 31 in Auckland, 15 in Middlemore, two in Waikato, and three in Tauranga. Seven cases are in ICU or HDU across the country. Of Waikato's cases, five are in Te [...]
Philippines’ election agency rejects bid to disqualify Marcos Jr
FILE PHOTO: Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the son of late Philippines dictator Ferdinand Marcos, poses for pictures after filing his certificate of candidacy for president in the 2022 national election, in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines, October 6, 2021. Rouelle Umali/Pool via Reuters/File Photo MANILA— Electoral authorities in the Philippines have rejected the first of a series of complaints seeking to disqualify presidential contender Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the early frontrunner ahead of next year's election. Marcos Jr, the son of late Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos, still faces six other complaints - all of them linked to accusations that he failed to pay income tax or file tax returns, which carry a lifetime ban from running for election. Marcos Jr, a career politician, has denied the tax allegations and said elections [...]
Australia well prepared for mounting COVID-19 cases: Health minister
Travellers receive tests for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) at a pre-departure testing facility, as countries react to the new coronavirus Omicron variant, outside the international terminal at Sydney Airport in Sydney, Australia, November 29, 2021. REUTERS/Loren Elliott MELBOURNE— Australian officials on Sunday (Dec 19) said there was no need to clamp down on Christmas festivities even as new COVID-19 infections climbed in Sydney, with the country's high vaccination rate helping keep people out of hospital. Health Minister Greg Hunt said he was confident Australia would not need to follow the Netherlands, which has reimposed a strict lockdown over the Christmas and New Year period to curb the spread of the highly contagious Omicron variant. "We're going into summer, we have one of the highest vaccination rates in the world [...]
Covid-19 update: 55 new community cases in NZ; five more Omicron cases in MIQ
There are 55 new community cases of Covid-19 in New Zealand today and five more cases of the Omicron variant in recent international arrivals, the Health Ministry says. Photo: AFP The new Omicron cases in MIQ take New Zealand's total to 13. Four of these cases remain in managed isolation. One has now recovered and has been released. The recovered case arrived from London via Singapore on 7 December. This case tested positive on day one and was closely managed in MIQ, the Ministry said in a statement. The person was never in the community while infectious. Of the new community cases, 41 are in Auckland, with the remainder spread between Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Taranaki. In Waikato, four new cases were reported overnight; three are in Te [...]
Typhoon Rai continues to intensify over West PH Sea – PAGASA
Typhoon Rai (PH name: “Odette”) continues to intensify over the West Philippine Sea, said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Sunday, Dec. 19. (PAGASA) As of 4 a.m., the center of the eye of typhoon Rai was located 320 kilometers (km) northwest of Pag-asa Island, Kalayaan, Palawan outside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR). It has maximum sustained winds of 195 kilometers per hour (kph) with gustiness of up to 240 kph. It is moving west northwestward at 25 kph. Tropical cyclone wind signal number 1 remained hoisted in Kalayaan Islands, where strong winds may prevail within 36 hours. “Typhoon Odette may still intensify within the next 12 hours. Afterwards, the gradual exposure of the typhoon to cooler sea surface temperatures in the northwestern [...]
UK Brexit boss resigns in another blow for Boris Johnson
Brexit minister Lord Frost has resigned from UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government. David Frost looks on as UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson signs a trade deal with the EU on 30 December, 2020, at 10 Downing Street in London. Photo: AFP Lord Frost led the UK's negotiations over the EU Withdrawal Agreement and Northern Ireland Protocol. In a letter to Johnson, Lord Frost said that while "Brexit is now secure" he had "concerns about the current direction of travel". The Mail on Sunday, which first reported the news, said he handed in his resignation a week ago, partly in disagreement with Covid-19 curbs. In his letter, Lord Frost, who attended Cabinet, said his resignation would take "immediate effect" and spoke of his desire to see a "low-tax" [...]
PH logs lowest number of Covid-19 active cases in 2021
The Philippines logged 291 new cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) on Saturday and the lowest number of those active in 2021 at 9,924, according to the Department of Health (DoH). The last time that the lowest number of active cases was recorded was on May 24, 2020 at 9,918. Of the active cases, 3,854 are mild, 501 are asymptomatic, 3,388 are moderate, 1,799 are severe and 382 are critical. Of the 35,527 samples that were tested on December 16, only 350 or 0.9 percent were found positive. Total recoveries are at 2.777 million, or 97.9 percent of the 2.8 million overall cases. The death toll is at 50,675, including 106 new fatalities. Occupancy rate for beds for Covid-19 patients in the intensive care units (ICUs) is at [...]
Name released of baby who died of ‘non-accidental’ injuries
Police have today released the name of the baby who died in Auckland’s Starship hospital on Friday. Auckland City Hospital and Starship children's hospital. (Source: istock.com) He was 10-month-old Chance Kamanaka O Ke Akura Aipolani-Nielson. In a statement on Sunday Detective Inspector Aaron Proctor said police "believe the baby's injuries were non-accidental, and investigations are ongoing into the circumstances". A homicide investigation is underway into Chance's death. Anyone with information that may assist police with their inquiries are asked to call 105 and reference Operation Angora.
Firefighters battle Far North vegetation blaze
A fire which started in the Far North on Saturday is still burning today, but is largely contained. Fire and Emergency NZ received calls about 1.30pm on Saturday about a huge blaze in Kaimaumau, a remote part of the Far North. The Kaimaumau fire at night. (Source: Mary Parrish) In a statement just before 11am on Sunday FENZ Controller Mitchell Brown says, "the fire is now 80 per cent contained as of 9:30am today, and it is expected to be 100 per cent contained by tonight. Crews will continue to mop up the residual fires over the next two days." It had initially engulfed five hectares, but by 5pm on Saturday had grown to around 300 hectares and a further 50 hectares by Sunday morning. Large bushfire [...]
Covid-19 update: 39 community cases in New Zealand today, 4 new cases of Omicron
New Zealand has recorded another 39 community cases of Covid-19, the Ministry of Health says. Photo: 123rf.com A boy under the age of 10 became the youngest person with Covid-19 to die in New Zealand, data on the Ministry of Health website revealed yesterday. The data said the child was a Māori boy, registered to the Counties Manukau DHB. Three new cases of the Omicron Covid-19 variant were also reported in New Zealand's managed isolation system, with none of them connected to the first case that was announced on Thursday. The cases are now isolating at the Jet Park Quarantine facility in Auckland while the first case has been transferred to an MIQ facility in Christchurch. The Ministry said the detection of further Omicron cases was not surprising given [...]
Reports of shots being fired in eastern area of Christchurch
A road in the Christchurch suburb of New Brighton has been closed after reports of shots being fired. Police have cordoned off Bowhill Road between Marine Parade and Keyes Road roundabout. A police spokesperson said as of yet, there are no reported injuries and inquiries are ongoing. The first calls to police came in just after 10am today.
Homicide investigation launched after Auckland baby dies
A homicide investigation is underway after a baby boy admitted to Starship Children’s Hospital on Wednesday with critical “non-accidental” injuries died. Auckland City Hospital and Starship children's hospital. (Source: istock.com) The 10-month-old died in hospital on Friday evening, Detective Inspector Aaron Proctor of Waitematā Police said. A post-mortem is underway and as a result the investigation has been upgraded to a homicide inquiry, he said.
US FDA approves AstraZeneca-Amgen drug for severe asthma
The logo for AstraZeneca is seen outside its North America headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware, US on Mar 22, 2021. (Photo: Reuters/Rachel Wisniewski) The US Food and Drug Administration approved AstraZeneca and Amgen's drug, Tezspire, to treat severe asthma for those aged 12 years and older, the companies said on Friday (Dec 17). The approval is based on late-stage trial data that showed the drug cut the rate of asthma attacks by 56 per cent among patients when compared with placebo. Amgen, which leads the manufacturing of the drug developed by AstraZeneca, told Reuters it was working to make Tezspire available to patients in January. Tezspire works by blocking a type of immune protein called TSLP, found in the linings of the lungs. TSLP belongs to the cytokine group responsible for [...]
NSW records highest daily Covid-19 case numbers with 2,482 infections, one death
New South Wales has recorded 2,482 new cases of Covid-19 and one death. Health officials collect COVID-19 swab tests at a drive-through testing site on Bondi beach in Sydney. Photo: AFP or licensors The case numbers are the highest recorded in any Australian jurisdiction in a 24-hour reporting period. There are 206 people in hospital with the virus in the state, 26 are in intensive care. Two weeks ago, the daily infection figure was 325 and then 560 cases were recorded a week after that on 11 December. The latest case numbers have surpassed Victoria's daily Covid-19 infection peak of 2,297 on 14 October. The latest figures have come from more than 137,149 tests taken in the reporting period. The surge in cases in NSW has also triggered a [...]
Russia issues list of demands it says must be met to lower tensions in Europe
Contentious security guarantees Moscow is seeking include a ban on Ukraine from entering Nato Russian truck-mounted rocket launchers during military drills near Orenburg. Photograph: Russian Defence Ministry Press Service/EPA Russia has put forward a highly contentious list of security guarantees it says it wants the west to agree to in order to lower tensions in Europe and defuse the crisis over Ukraine, including many elements that have already been ruled out. The demands include a ban on Ukraine entering Nato and a limit to the deployment of troops and weapons to Nato’s eastern flank, in effect returning Nato forces to where they were stationed in 1997, before an eastward expansion. The eight-point draft treaty was released by Russia’s foreign ministry as its forces massed within striking distance of Ukraine’s [...]
PH Presidential aspirants join relief efforts for Typhoon Odette victims
PHILIPPINES — Several 2022 hopefuls have launched their own initiatives to help in the relief efforts for communities hit by Typhoon Odette. The tandem of Vice President Leni Robredo and Senator Kiko Pangilinan called for relief goods and cash donations alike. Donations can be dropped off at their volunteer center in Quezon City. Robredo also personally flew to Bohol on Friday. Those who would want to donate through Manila Mayor Isko Moreno's drive can also head to Quezon City. Senator Manny Pacquiao also launched a fundraiser for the typhoon victims. Volunteer-supporters have also started packing relief goods for his drive. The camp of former Senator Bongbong Marcos and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte also prepared relief packs for the calamity-struck areas. Progressive coalition Laban ng Masa — which fielded [...]
Typhoon ‘Odette’ slashes across 7 regions in PH
AFTER THE STORM Infrastructure in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte has sustained heavy damage from the onslaught of Typhoon ‘Odette’ (‘Rai’) on Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021. The island was among the hardest hit by the storm that left its mark in other areas in 7 regions in the country. PHOTO FROM THE PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD Updated at 12:49 am AS many as 12 people may have died and thousands were evacuated as Typhoon "Odette" slashed across seven regions Friday, the government's disaster management agency reported. Packing 195-kilometer-per-hour winds, the giant storm, with international name "Rai", made eight landfalls as it barreled its way through Mimaropa (Mindoro Oriental, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan); Eastern, Central and Western Visayas; Northern Mindanao; and Caraga. National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) [...]
Biden picks Caroline Kennedy to be ambassador to Australia
US President Joe Biden has announced his intention to nominate Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of former president John F. Kennedy to serve as ambassador to Australia. Ms Kennedy is a longtime friend, ally and donor to Mr Biden and endorsed the president's candidacy early in the 2020 campaign, speaking at the Democratic convention. She previously served as US ambassador to Japan in the Obama administration. Caroline Kennedy will be nominated as the next US ambassador to Australia by the Biden Administration.. (Getty) In a statement, Ms Kennedy called Australia "a country that is as vital to our future security and prosperity as Australia". "I am always grateful to the courageous Solomon Islanders and Australian coast watchers who rescued my father during World War II, and if confirmed, I will [...]
Signal No. 3 up in Visayas, Mindanao areas as ‘Odette’ intensifies in PH
PHILIPPINES— Signal No. 3 is up in parts of Visayas and Mindanao as Typhoon "Odette" continues to intensify and may make its first landfall on Thursday afternoon over Dinagat Islands-Surigao provinces, according to the state-run weather agency. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said in its 5 a.m. advisory that affected areas in Visayas include Southern Leyte, the southern portion of Leyte (Abuyog, Mahaplag, City of Baybay, Inopacan, Hindang, Hilongos, Bato, Matalom and Javier), Bohol, and the eastern portion of Cebu (Lapu-Lapu City, Cordova, Carmen, Danao City, Compostela, Liloan, Consolacion, Mandaue City, Cebu City, City of Talisay, Minglanilla, City of Naga and San Fernando) including Camotes Islands. In Mindanao, Signal No. 3 is up over: Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, the northern portion of Agusan del [...]
PH detects first 2 imported cases of Omicron variant
(FILE PHOTO) Metro Manila, Philippines — The country has detected its first two cases of the Omicron coronavirus variant, the Department of Health (DOH) confirmed on Wednesday. In a statement, the DOH said the two cases — both international travelers — are currently isolated in a facility under the Bureau of Quarantine. The report came following the latest genome sequencing of 48 samples on Tuesday. The first Omicron case is a returning overseas Filipino who arrived from Japan on Dec. 1 via a Philippine Airlines flight. The patient had coughs and colds upon arrival but is now asymptomatic, the Health department said. The second case is a Nigerian national who arrived on Nov. 30 via an Oman Air flight, it also said, adding that the patient is also currently asymptomatic. The government [...]
GDP down 3.7%, second largest quarterly fall since 1986
The economy took a big hit thanks to the long lockdown, as widely predicted. New Zealand money. (Source: istock.com) The most widespread measure of economic activity – Gross Domestic Product – shows a 3.7 fall in the September quarter, Statistics NZ revealed today. That’s the second largest fall since records began in 1986. It's the first comprehensive look at the knock the economy has taken thanks to the 2021 lockdown. Retail, accommodation, restaurants, manufacturing, construction and arts and recreation were the hardest hit. And the economy saw big falls in spending over that time. But, the fall is less pronounced than in June 2020 following the first nationwide lockdown. “The September quarter had fewer days in higher alert levels, and border restrictions were already in place," Statistics NZ's [...]
Covid-19 milestone: 90pc of eligible New Zealanders are now fully vaccinated
Ninety percent of eligible New Zealanders are now fully vaccinated, with the official count through overnight, Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins says. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon The milestone means nearly 3,800,000 people have rolled up their sleeves for two Pfizer doses. It comes hot on the heels of the three DHBs in Auckland's metropolitan area reaching the target. Seven of the country's 20 DHBs have now reached 90 percent double-vaccination, and a handful of others are on track to reach the target in the next few days. Ninety-four percent of the eligible population nationwide have had their first dose. Auckland's Counties Manukau District Health Board hit the vaccination target of having 90 percent of its eligible population fully vaccinated yesterday. That means all three DHBs in the [...]
Ministry of Education records spike in home-schooling applications
Ministry of Education figures show a spike in applications from parents wanting to home-school their children. File image. Photo: 123RF The figures show the ministry usually received more than 100 applications a month before the pandemic and fewer than 200 a month for most of last year and this year. But in October it received about 500 applications and in November more than 800. The ministry said by 8 December it had received 3225 applications this year with 2194 approved, 71 declined, and 900 pending a decision. The ministry said there were 8552 in home-schooling at the start of December, up from 7749 at the middle of the year and about 1300 more than in the middle of last year. Auckland Home Educators supports home-schooling in the Auckland [...]
Canterbury DHB apologises after used needle mistake
A person was injected with a used needle when getting a Covid-19 booster vaccine, prompting an apology and investigation from Canterbury DHB. Vaccination clinic sign. (Source: rnz.co.nz) Dr Helen Skinner, who is responsible for the DHB’s Covid-19 response, said the error happened at the ‘old CHOC’ clinic at Christchurch Hospital on Friday, December 10. “A needle previously used to vaccinate one person was used for a second person’s vaccination,” she said. Skinner said staff immediately told the second person what had happened when they realised. The DHB has apologised to both people. Blood samples were taken from both people and a "comprehensive investigation" has begun, she said. Skinner said steps were being taken to support the vaccinator and both people the needle was used on. “We will continue [...]
80 new community Covid-19 cases in NZ
There are 80 new Covid-19 cases in the community on Tuesday, the Ministry of Health has announced. The cases are in Auckland (51), Waikato (21), Bay of Plenty (7) and Lakes (1). There is also another case in Christchurch, but it will be included in Wednesday's numbers. They are a close contact of an earlier case and were already isolating at home when they tested positive. Sixty-two people are in hospital with the virus, including four in intensive care or a high dependency unit. The ministry also said "several" members of a flight crew which arrived in New Zealand on Monday night had been identified as close contacts of an Omicron case in Australia. They are in an MIQ facility as per standard international air crew arrival procedure. Meanwhile, [...]
Mainland China reports first case of Omicron coronavirus variant
Appearance of highly transmissible variant poses serious threat to zero-Covid strategy Medical workers in protective gear at a Covid testing site in Ningbo, Zhejiang province.Photograph: Xinhua/Rex/Shutterstock Mainland China has reported its first case of the highly transmissible Omicron variant in the northern city of Tianjin, posing what could be the biggest threat to date to the country’s zero-Covid strategy. The Chinese authorities reported on Monday that the Omicron case was detected on 9 December from an overseas returnee, who showed no symptoms on arrival. The patient is being quarantined and treated in a designated hospital. At the same time, the eastern province of Zhejiang has been battling a rise in new infections of the Delta variant in recent weeks. Cases of Omicron – first detected in South [...]
Marcos, Sara top new survey
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos bump fists during a UniTeam event in San Pedro, Laguna. LAKAS CMD PHOTO Updated at 12:45 am PHILIPPINES— Presidential candidate Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and his running mate Sara Duterte-Carpio led the fourth-quarter survey conducted by Publicus Asia, the results of which were released Monday. Publicus said 51.9 percent of the respondents had Marcos as their preferred choice for president. His choice share was up by 2.6 percent from the 49.3 percent in the third-quarter poll. Marcos was also the frontrunner in the third-quarter survey, as well as in Publicus' Final List Survey where he was the choice of 56.7 percent of the respondents. That poll was conducted on November 16 to 18, right after the deadline for [...]
NZ real estate agents pocket almost $2b in commission as house prices rise
Real estate agents are hoping for a record breaking 2021 as they pocket more than a billion dollars in commission fees on the back of skyrocketing house prices. A Herald calculation estimates agents earned $2 billion in commission fees in the past year. OneRoof's data partner Valocity found 78,643 homes and apartments had sold in the 12 months to November 30 at a combined value of $74b. While the industry does not officially publish agents' earnings, the past 12 months are expected to have been among the best years on record with more sales completed at higher prices than last year. That meant the best agents could earn up to $1 million per year, Ray White Manukau owner Tom Rawson said. Yet with the high rewards also came high [...]
Covid-19 update: 103 new community cases in New Zealand today
There have been 103 new community cases of Covid-19 reported in New Zealand today. A Covid-19 testing road sign in Napier Photo: Tom Kitchin In a statement, the Ministry of Health said there were 61 people in hospital with the coronavirus, including three in intensive care. Today's cases include two in Northland; 86 in Auckland; nine in Waikato; three in the Bay of Plenty; one in Rotorua and two in Canterbury. There was also one case today in Taranaki and one in Nelson-Tasman, which will be officially added to the country's case numbers tomorrow. The Taranaki case is not linked to any of the previously reported cases in New Plymouth or Waitara and is currently isolating at home. A border worker case reported yesterday remains under investigation. The [...]
World Bank approves US$600 million funding for Philippine reforms
A participant stands near a logo of World Bank at the International Monetary Fund-World Bank Annual Meeting 2018 in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia on Oct 12, 2018. (File photo: Reuters/Johannes P Christo) MANILA— The World Bank has approved a US$600 million loan for a Philippine reform programme to position the Southeast Asian country for a competitive and resilient economic recovery, the bank said on Saturday (Dec 11). The quick-disbursing loan backs measures to free up retail services and promote private investment, cut the cost of doing business, and expand broadband services to boost investments in information and communications technology, the lender added. Such reforms are crucial to level immediate and long-term barriers to growth, said Ndiamé Diop, the bank's country director for Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand. "Reforms [...]
Taiwan confirms first cases of COVID-19 Omicron variant
People wearing masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19 ride an escalator at a subway station in Taipei, Taiwan, Nov 30, 2021. (Photo: Reuters/I-Hwa Cheng) TAIPEI— Taiwan confirmed on Saturday (Dec 11) its first cases of the Omicron variant of coronavirus, found in three people who had arrived from abroad. The island's Central Epidemic Command Centre said the infections were found in travellers arriving from Britain, the southern African nation of Eswatini and the United States. Like all entrants, they were tested on arrival and already subject to two weeks of quarantine.
Australia shortens wait time for COVID-19 booster doses as Omicron cases rise
Travellers receive tests for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) at a pre-departure testing facility, as countries react to the new coronavirus Omicron variant, outside the international terminal at Sydney Airport in Sydney, Australia, November 29, 2021. REUTERS/Loren Elliott CANBERRA— Australia said on Sunday (Dec 12) it will shorten the wait time for people to receive COVID-19 booster vaccines following a rise in cases of the Omicron variant. Australia had previously said it would offer a COVID-19 booster to everyone over 18 and who had their second dose of the vaccine six months prior. But with rising cases of the Omicron variant, Australia's Health Minister Greg Hunt said the time interval will be shortened to five months after the second dose. "A booster dose, five or more months after the second [...]
At least 70 dead as tornadoes rip across central and southern US states
Kentucky was hardest hit as four tornadoes, including a massive storm, devastated a town and collapsed a factory building Damage from a tornado is seen in downtown Mayfield, Kentucky, on Saturday. Photograph: Mark Humphrey/AP Seven central and southern US states were picking up the pieces Saturday after a series of powerful tornadoes intensified by severe storms ripped across the region, leaving an estimated 70 to 100 people dead. Kentucky was hardest hit as four tornadoes, including a massive storm, devastated Mayfield, a small town 134 miles (215 km) north-west of Nashville, Tennessee. A candle factory partially collapsed when the tornado struck on Friday evening. Drone footage shows collapsed Illinois warehouse after tornadoes sweep US – video More than 30 tornadoes pummeled a 200-mile plus area in what [...]
NZ and Australia’s bond will always be tight – Ardern
Jacinda Ardern insists the trans-Tasman friendship with Australia is in fine health, and she won't join the international pile-on critiquing Scott Morrison's foreign engagement. Jacinda Ardern says the Government's $37.5 million package is a "win-win", acknowledging Aucklanders and supporting facilities, event spaces and businesses. But nor is the New Zealand prime minister willing to support her Australian counterpart for recent dealings that have left France fuming, the USA cold and have further provoked China. In a rare sit-down interview with Australian media, Ardern said she hadn't drawn any conclusions about Morrison's trustworthiness from the AUKUS episode, which upset a trio of world powers. "I don't have to base the relationship on what I observe of others because I've got my own experience to base the relationship on," she [...]
Covid-19 update: 63 new community cases reported in New Zealand today
There have been 63 new community cases of Covid-19 reported in New Zealand today, according to the Ministry of Health. Photo: AFP In a statement, the ministry said the new cases are in Northland (2), Auckland (53), Waikato (3), Bay of Plenty (1), Taranaki (1), and Canterbury (2). It said while there had been a large drop in case numbers today, "we continue to ask everyone in New Zealand to remain vigilant". A border worker who has tested positive as part of routine surveillance testing has also been reported today. "This case remains under investigation and is yet to be classified as either a community or border case. The case has not been included in today's community case tally but has been added to the tally of total [...]
NZ has tools to limit Covid-19 spread over summer – Baker
As the country prepares to hit the road over summer, Epidemiologist Professor Michael Baker says he believes New Zealand has the tools in place to limit transmission. It comes as the country recorded 63 community cases on Saturday, the lowest number in seven weeks. Baker says low case numbers is very good news coming into the Christmas period. While cases are dropping, vaccination rates continue to climb with 17 out of 20 DHBs having had one or more doses. Baker says "given that almost 95 per cent of the population has had one or more doses we can expect most of them will have their second dose." Although vaccination rates are high, "we still need to focus on getting children vaccinated as a measure to limit transmission," he says. [...]
Biden promises eastern Europeans support in event of Russian attack on Ukraine
US president makes pledge in phone calls to Ukrainian president and nine other states Joe Biden meets via video with President Vladimir Putin. The president called the east-European leaders after unease over US plans to hold talks with Moscow. Photograph: Adam Schultz/AP Joe Biden has phoned the leaders of Ukraine and nine eastern European Nato states promising support if Russia attacks Ukraine and pledging to involve them in decisions about the region. After a 90-minute call with Biden late on Thursday, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Twitter that the two “discussed possible formats for resolving the conflict” in eastern Ukraine, where Russian-backed separatists have carved out a self-declared state. After Zelenskiy, Biden spent 40 minutes talking to the leaders of Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, [...]
Jacinda Ardern tells world leaders our model of democracy is ‘being challenged across globe’
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has told world leaders that our model of democracy is "being challenged across the globe" and that to address issues like COVID-19 and climate change we need to value a diversity of voices and build enduring institutions. Arden gave two pre-recorded speeches overnight as part of the Summit for Democracy, a virtual event held by United States President Joe Biden and attended by more than 100 world leaders. The event aimed to bring together figures from government, civil society and the private sector to lay out an "affirmative agenda for democratic renewal and to tackle the greatest threats faced by democracies today through collective action". Notably, authoritarian states Russia and China, with which the US currently has poor relations, were not invited to the event. [...]
Weather: Possible tropical cyclone in Coral Sea could intensify to Category 5, so how will New Zealand be impacted?
A tropical cyclone likely to emerge this weekend near the Coral Sea could intensify into a Category 5 storm as it heads south towards New Zealand, Weatherwatch says. All eyes are on the tropical depression currently sitting around the Solomon Islands that is expected to turn into a tropical cyclone by Sunday as it moves towards New Caledonia. By Tuesday, WeatherWatch says the cyclone could be as strong as a Cateogry 5, but is more likely to be either Category 4 or 3. "That's a severe storm," forecaster Philip Duncan says. "So New Caledonia, for two or three days now, has been showing a direct hit. The French nation [is] watching it very closely. Vanuatu right on the outer edges of it, Norfolk Island very close." At this point [...]
DOH: Still no PH case of Omicron
There is still no Omicron COVID-19 variant case detected in the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) reported on Thursday. It said the results of latest whole genome sequencing of 48 samples conducted on Dec. 8 by the Philippine Genome Center (PGC) did not find any Omicron variant. The results did not include the samples of three travelers from South Africa, Burkina Faso and Egypt who tested positive for COVID-19. “The samples collected from the travelers from South Africa and Burkina Faso are in PGC for sequencing [and] the sample from the traveler from Egypt is currently being sent to PGC,” the DOH said. Delta variant Genome sequencing of the travelers’ samples is being done to determine if they have the Omicron variant. The DOH said the three were [...]
Nicaragua breaks ties with Taiwan, switches allegiance to Beijing
FILE PHOTO: Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega and Vice-President Rosario Murillo during a march in Managua, Nicaragua, on Sep 5, 2018. (PHOTO: REUTERS/Oswaldo Rivas) MANAGUA— Nicaragua on Thursday (Dec 9) broke its longstanding diplomatic ties with Taiwan, switching allegiance to Beijing in a recognition of the Chinese Communist party's One China policy and reducing Taipei's dwindling pool of international allies. "The government of the Republic of Nicaragua today breaks diplomatic relations with Taiwan and ceases to have any contact or official relationship," the foreign ministry said in a statement issued in Spanish and English. "The People's Republic of China is the only legitimate government that represents all of China and Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory," it added. Taiwan responded quickly, expressing "pain and regret" at the [...]
Nurses still struggling to return to New Zealand despite MIQ slots for healthcare workers
A nurse who sailed home because she couldn't get a slot in MIQ and another who's given up trying say there are still too many barriers to getting nurses back to New Zealand. New Zealand nurse Rachel Fraher caught a ride on a yacht to return from Australia. Photo: Supplied There are critical nursing shortages all over the country, with expectations it will only get worse with the Covid outbreak next year But nurses groups said it was still to difficult for New Zealand nurses to get home or for overseas nurses to move here. New Zealand nurse Rachel Fraher was in Australia until she hitched a ride on a yacht, arriving a few days ago. She had tried eight times through the general MIQ system, before health [...]
Covid-19 update: 95 new community cases in New Zealand, two further deaths
There are 95 new cases of Covid-19 in the community today and two further deaths of people with the coronavirus, the Ministry of Health has reported. Photo: 123rf.com In a statement, the Ministry said there are 56 people in hospital with Covid-19, including four in ICU. But it also reported two deaths of people with Covid-19 - one at Middlemore Hospital and one at Auckland City Hospital. Both cases have been referred to the coroner. Today's cases were in Auckland (75), Waikato (11), Bay of Plenty (5), Rotorua (1), Nelson-Tasman (1) and Canterbury (2). There was also one new case in managed isolation. Yesterday the Ministry reported 103 new community cases - 88 in Auckland , nine in Waikato, five in Bay of Plenty and one in Rotorua. [...]
China accuses Australia of ‘political posturing’ over diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics
Scott Morrison says athletes will compete in next year’s Games because sport and politics should not mix The prime minister, Scott Morrison, has confirmed Australian officials will not attend the Beijing Winter Olympics, joining the United States in a diplomatic boycott of next year’s Games and prompting accusations from Beijing of political posturing. Morrison told reporters in Sydney it was “not surprising”, given the deterioration in the diplomatic relationship between Australia and China, that officials would not attend next year’s winter Games. “Australian athletes will, though,” he said on Wednesday. “Australia’s a great sporting nation and I very much separate the issues of sport and these other political issues.” Morrison said he would like to see longstanding tensions between Australia and China resolved, but his government did not [...]
Covid-19: Jacinda Ardern defends decision to keep Auckland border in place
ROBERT KITCHIN/STUFF Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says her Government’s decisions weighed up different pieces of advice. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has defended her Government’s decision to keep the Auckland border in place and to bring forward the Covid traffic light system. Newly published Ministry of Health advice from Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield said there was no justification to keep the city’s hard border in place when the nation moved into the new framework, at the time expected to be around mid-December. He also wrote “a requirement for testing and vaccination certificates to leave Auckland would direct resources away from where they are most needed, particularly given the high practical cost of enforcement”. But Ardern said Bloomfield’s November 11 advice, published now as part of a [...]
One dead after vehicle goes into water in Tauranga
A person has died after a vehicle plunged into Tauranga Harbour this evening. Chapel Street, Tauranga. Photo: Google Maps Emergency services were called to Chapel Street, where there was a report of a vehicle in the water shortly after 5pm. One person died at the scene while another person was treated by medical staff. The road remains closed. An investigation into the circumstances of the incident is ongoing.
Drug smuggling bust: Six Air New Zealand workers, three King Cobra members charged
Police say Auckland Airport has been targeted by a syndicate smuggling drugs from the United States into New Zealand. Operation Selena seizures: (from top left, clockwise) Meth hidden in a container from Tonga to Auckland, firearms seized in relation to investigation on smuggling from Tonga, cash and firearm seized after investigation into smuggling from Malaysia, meth disguised as taro and cassava. Photo: Supplied / NZ Police Fourteen people, including six baggage handlers working for Air New Zealand and three King Cobra gang members, have been charged today after a six-month joint operation with Customs. Authorities confiscated 45kg of meth and three firearms in relation to the latest arrests. Detective Inspector Paul Newman said they suspect unchecked items were placed onto aircraft flying from Los Angeles to Auckland. Police [...]
Covid-19 update: 90 new community cases in NZ today
There are 90 new cases of Covid-19 in the community today, the Ministry of Health has reported. Photo: AFP In a statement, the ministry said the new cases included three in Northland, 71 in Auckland, nine in Waikato, five Bay of Plenty, one in Rotorua and one in the Nelson-Tasman region. The Auckland cases include a staff member at the Ellerslie Gardens Aged Residential Care facility Auckland Regional Public Health Service and Auckland DHB staff are supporting the residents and staff at the privately-owned facility. "Testing is being undertaken with residents and staff as part of the outbreak management plan." There were 74 people in hospital with the coronavirus, including six in ICU. There were also two cases from the UAE and the UK reported at the border. [...]
China to land in moon in 2030
Image released by the China National Space Administration (CNSA) on Dec. 4, 2020 shows China's national flag unfurled from the Chang'e-5 probe on the moon. The image was taken by a panoramic camera installed on the lander-ascender combination of the probe, before the ascender blasted off from the moon with lunar samples. CNSA/Handout via Xinhua BEIJING— It is "entirely possible" for China to perform a crewed lunar landing before 2030, said a senior Chinese scientist in deep-space exploration. "I personally think that as long as the technological research for manned moon landing continues and as long as the country is determined (to achieve the goal), it is entirely possible for China to land people on the moon before 2030," Ye Peijian said in a recent interview with the state [...]
PH now at minimal risk case classification for COVID-19
PHILIPPINES — The COVID-19 situation in the country continues to improve as the Department of Health reported on Monday that the Philippines is now under minimal risk case classification. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vegeire said the average daily attack rate from Nov. 22 to Dec. 5 is now below one, which means the country can be downgraded from low risk to minimal risk. "Nationally we remain at minimal risk case cl