MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos said on Friday the government will take appropriate action on China’s release of its new map, which features a 10-dash line covering a large part of the South China Sea (SCS), including the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“Now, once again, we have received the news that now, the nine-dash line has been extended to the 10-dash line. We have to respond to all of these and we will,” Marcos said in a media interview on the sidelines of an event in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
Marcos refused to elaborate on the “operational details” about the actions the Philippines would take.
His statement came in the wake of China’s release of its updated “standard map” with a U-shaped 10-dash line showing its extensive claims to SCS.
The map illustrates China’s supposed ownership of WPS, as well as Taiwan and India’s northern state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region.
“The Indian National Congress takes strong objection to any such illegal representation or renaming of India’s territories,” Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday.
“This is not the first time China has made such an attempt. We reject this outright,” added Arindam Bagchi, India external affairs ministry spokesperson, in another X post. “Arunachal Pradesh is, has been and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India. Attempts to assign invented names will not alter this reality.”
Marcos said the Philippines would not relinquish its territorial claims in the hotly contested waters, stressing that the government would remain consistent in asserting its ownership of the WPS.
“Ngayon (Now), of course, we’ll continue to defend our territorial sovereignty, our territorial rights. We have not changed our approach. It is other countries around us that have changed their approach,” he said.
Marcos said the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) gives the Philippines a “very solid” basis to defend its territorial rights over WPS.
“We have to stay true to the rules-based international law, especially the UNCLOS. That I think puts us on a very solid ground in terms to our claims for territorial sovereignty, for maritime territory. And this has been validated and supported by many, many countries around the world,” he said.
“And I think we need to strengthen that. That again is very big help to the Philippines in continuing to defend our maritime borders,” Marcos added.
The UNCLOS, adopted in 1982, lays down a comprehensive legal framework governing all activities and uses of the world’s seas and oceans. It also establishes general obligations for safeguarding the marine environment and protecting the freedom of scientific research on the high seas.
In a Palace briefing on Thursday, Foreign Assistant Secretary for ASEAN Affairs Daniel Espiritu said Marcos will push for the issuance of a joint statement of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations on China’s recent actions in SCS and release of its 2023 standard map.
Also on Thursday, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said the Marcos administration is committed to protecting the Philippines’ territorial integrity and national sovereignty, disregarding China’s new map featuring its extended claims in SCS.
The Philippines won its petition filed before the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration on July 12, 2016 after the tribunal invalidated Beijing’s claim of supposed historic rights over almost the entire SCS.
The Philippines, China and several other littoral states are locked in a territorial dispute over the SCS, where Beijing lays claims on around 80 percent of the strategic waters. (PNA)
MANILA – The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs will issue a subpoena against Wilfredo Gonzales, a former police officer who was caught in a viral video pulling out and cocking his gun at a cyclist in a road rage that happened near Welcome Rotonda, Quezon City.
Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who chairs the panel, told reporters on Friday that if Gonzales chooses to ignore the subpoena, he will be cited in contempt and shall be arrested by the Senate’s Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms.
“Ipa-subpoena natin siya kung hindi siya magsipot at kung hindi pa din siya sumipot sa subpoena, pwede natin siyang ipaaresto sa sergeant-of-arms natin (We will subpoena him if he will not attend and if he will not heed to the subpoena, we can ask the sergeant-of-arms to arrest him),” he said.
The panel will hold the investigation at 10 a.m. on Sept. 5 in response to the Senate Resolution No. 763 filed by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senator Pia Cayetano.
Dela Rosa scheduled the inquiry despite the fact that the cyclist withdrew his complaints after reportedly having settled with Gonzales.
“The investigation in aid of legislation goes beyond the filing of appropriate charges against the erring gun holder,” pointed out.
The panel, Dela Rosa said, also encourages Gonzales, especially the cyclist, to attend the hearing so that all sides will be heard.
On Thursday, the Quezon City Council also looked into the incident aiming to support whoever can provide more information about the incident; to know how the Galas Police Station handled the case that led to the settlement of both parties; to receive updates from the Quezon City Police District which is currently handling the case; and to revoke Gonzales’ gun and driver’s licenses.
Meanwhile, dela Rosa lauded the Philippine National Police (PNP) for its decision to revoke the firearm privileges of Gonzales, saying what the latter did is unacceptable in a civilized society.
“Hindi pupwede ‘yung gano’n. Gagamit ka kaagad ng baril. Hindi ‘yon karapat-dapat kahit na sabihin mo pantakot lang ‘yon (That is not allowed – immediately pulling a gun. It is inappropriate even if you say it is just to scare the person),” he said. “But still, napakalaki po ng impact nun sa nakakita na bumunot ka ng baril, kumasa ka pa, kahit sabihin mo na ‘di mo tinutukan (Pulling a gun and cocking it has a huge impact on those who saw it even if it was not pointed at anyone).”
Dela Rosa explained that the main purpose of the Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence being issued by the PNP is to protect the gun holder from harm and not to threaten or make aggressive actions against anybody.
“Tama lang ‘yung ginawa ng PNP na tanggalan siya ng lisensya ng baril at saka lahat ng mga permit sa baril na binigay sa kanya ay tinanggal sa kanya (It was right for the PNP to revoke his gun license and all gun permits issued to him),” he added. (PNA)
MANILA – The deadline of filing of the certificates of candidacy (COC) for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) has been extended anew to Sept. 4 in select areas following another government work suspension on Friday.
In an advisory, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced the updated extension of the deadline of COC filing in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Abra due to bad weather.
“NCR’s (COC filing) will resume on September 2 until September 4,” the advisory read.
Abra, meanwhile, resumed its filing and reception of COC Friday.
For Ilocos Norte, earlier extension of COC filing until Sept. 3 or 5 p.m on Sunday shall still be in effect.
As of Friday 10 a.m. the total number of aspiring BSKE candidates who filed their COCs in 80 provinces is 944,325 based on Comelec data.
This accounts for 70,925 aspiring barangay captains and 518,383 aspiring members of Sangguniang Barangay.
These also include 58,914 aspiring SK chairpersons and 296,103 aspiring SK members. (PNA)
Ahead of the Senate deliberations of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) proposed 2024 budget, Senator Win Gatchalian said he will raise the recurring issues on the hiring of teachers.
Gatchalian has repeatedly urged the DepEd to speed up its hiring process. Data from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) reveals that as of February 17, 2023, there are 24,254 unfilled teaching positions in the DepEd. This is equivalent to almost 3% of the DepEd’s 879,789 teaching positions. The bigger portion of these unfilled positions are entry-level positions such as Teacher I, Special Science Teacher I, Special Education Teacher I, and Master Teacher I.
The DepEd previously said that the hiring process, which also involves the Civil Service Commission (CSC) and the DBM, usually takes six months.
The Commission on Audit (COA) also took note that while the DepEd was able to obligate 95% of its total adjustment allotments of P658.5 billion in its 2022 budget, the unutilized balance of P32.6 billion can be attributed to unfilled teaching positions, as well as the delayed, partial, and non-implementation of various programs, activities, and projects.
In a Senate basic education hearing, Gatchalian also pointed to the number of schools that do not have enough teachers for School Year (SY) 2022-2023 based on DepEd data and the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028. Out of 39,186 total schools for Kindergarten to Grade 6, 9% (3,505) have insufficient teachers. Twenty-four percent (2,412) of 10,188 junior high schools, and 34% (2,522) of 7,520 senior high schools do not have enough teachers.
“It’s really unjustifiable that our classrooms are not staffed with teachers when there are available positions and funding for those teachers. We really need to improve the process and during the budget hearing, I plan to raise what reforms they have undertaken,” said Gatchalian, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education.
The Philippines rebounded from a loss to China with an impressive 11-1 victory over South Korea in the WBSC Women’s Softball Asia Cup held on Thursday at the Pingtan Softball Stadium in Fujian Province, China.
This victory propelled the Cebuana Lhuillier-supported team into the Super Round, concluding the group stage with a 2-1 record, just behind the undefeated China (3-0).
South Korea (1-2) and Hong Kong (0-3), the other two teams in Group A, were relegated to the Placement Round.
The Philippines commenced the tournament with a 7-0 win over Hong Kong but succumbed to China in their second game with a score of 0-11.
Jean Henri Lhuillier, president of the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (Asaphil), commented, “Losing 0-11 against China was a tough setback, but the true measure of a team is how they respond. I’m incredibly proud of how our girls bounced back to dominate South Korea. This team embodies the spirit of Philippine softball, relentless and resilient in the face of any challenge.”
The tournament also has three slots available for the Under-18 Women’s Softball World Cup in 2024. Joining the Philippines and China in the Super Round are Group B leaders Japan (3-0) and Chinese-Taipei (2-1).
Meanwhile, Singapore (2-1) and India (0-3) will join South Korea and Hong Kong in the Placement Round.
In the Super Round, the Philippines will face Japan on Friday afternoon and Chinese-Taipei on Saturday. The championship game and the battle for third place are scheduled for Sunday.
The Philippine under-18 team comprises Daniela Cabangon, Che-Restcel Dela Cruz, Jeryll Duller, Ciarina Daniela Eder, Shein Espinosa, Trisha Karyl Hicayen, Angelica Jean Latriz, Rhea Manalo, Magdalene Nangan, Eileen Polvorido, and Laira Dianne Silverio. The head coach is Ma. Lizviminda Jalandoni, and the pitching coach is Kaith Ezra Jalandoni. (AI/MNM)
Ibon Foundation photo courtesy
PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has imposed mandated price ceilings on rice in the whole country amid the alarming increase in its retail prices in the market, Malacañang announced Friday.
The President, through Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, signed on Aug. 31, 2023, Executive Order (EO) 39, approving the joint recommendation of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Trade of Industry (DTI) to set price ceilings on rice in the country.
Under EO 39, the mandated price ceiling for regular milled rice is P41.00 per kilogram while the mandated price cap for well-milled rice is P45.00 per kilogram.
“The mandated price ceilings shall remain in full force and effect unless lifted by the President upon the recommendation of the Price Coordinating Council or the DA and the DTI,” Marcos said in his order.
EO 39, which was released to the public on Friday, will take effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette, or in a newspaper of general circulation. (ia/mnm)
MANILA — Coach Chot Reyes expressed deep regret for Gilas Pilipinas’ winless streak at the FIBA Basketball World Cup.
The team suffered its fourth consecutive defeat in as many outings, with the latest being a 68-87 loss to South Sudan during the classification phase before a largely partisan crowd at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Thursday, August 31.
What made this loss particularly disheartening for Filipino basketball enthusiasts was that it eliminated Gilas from contention for an automatic Paris Olympics qualification next year.
Reyes, visibly defeated after the loss, took full responsibility for the team’s shortcomings, stating, “I’ve said it numerous times. I’m genuinely sorry that we couldn’t deliver, and I bear complete accountability.”
When asked if the defeats served as a learning experience for Gilas, as he had previously mentioned in past tournaments leading up to the World Cup, Reyes responded with a definitive “no.”
He emphasized that this (2023) World Cup was the stage for the home team to execute rather than learn.
“No, this was no longer about gaining experience for us; it was a time for us to win and put our learning into action. This should have happened much earlier. This was the time for us to win and execute, and, as I mentioned, we didn’t get the job done,” Reyes lamented.
Even in defeat, Gilas could have still contended for the sole outright Olympic qualification spot for an Asian team if Japan had also lost to Venezuela. However, Japan secured an 86-77 victory, dashing Filipino hopes.
“Once again, it’s unfortunate. We knew this was the game we absolutely had to win because someone would secure the wins. That’s why I’m very, very disappointed. I wasn’t surprised that Japan won; that’s why I knew this was the game we absolutely had to win,” Reyes explained.
Despite the demoralizing loss, Reyes stressed the need for a swift recovery as Gilas still had a game against China to end their campaign on Saturday, September 2. Gilas aimed to salvage some pride with a victory, which would also affect China’s chances of outright Olympic qualification.
China, which defeated Angola to start its classification phase campaign, needed to beat the Philippines and hope that Japan lost to Cape Verde to increase its chances of finishing as the top Asian team in the tournament and securing the automatic Olympic qualification.
“Obviously, we’re very, very down. There’s nothing else to say, right? Morale is really low. Our task is to prepare everyone for the next game, and that starts with our mindset and emotional state,” Reyes emphasized.
He concluded by expressing pride in the team’s effort despite the challenging campaign. “I want to say that, as difficult and disappointing as this campaign has been so far, I’m still very proud of the effort. The guys gave their all and fought their best. Unfortunately, things didn’t go our way. All we can do now is focus on the next game. There’s one more game to be played. We’ll prepare as best as we can to put up a fight against China on Saturday.” (ai/mnm)
In a formal declaration during the celebration of National Peace Consciousness Month 2023 in Puerto Princesa, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that Palawan is now free from communist insurgency.
The proclamation follows a joint resolution by the Palawan Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) and the Provincial Peace and Order Council in 2022, which Marcos affirmed during the event.
Marcos commended the collaborative efforts of regional and provincial task forces, the provincial peace and order council, and their partner agencies for successfully implementing a comprehensive approach to end local communist armed conflict.
The joint resolution, grounded in the Armed Forces of the Philippines Clearing Validation Board’s Resolutions 01 S-2020, 01 S-2021, and 01 S-2022, officially declares all designated Focused Areas and Kinokonsolida Konsolidadong Ekspansyon at Rekoberi zones in Palawan and Puerto Princesa City as insurgent-free.
The coordinated efforts of law-enforcement agencies have resulted in the absence of New People’s Army (NPA)-initiated violent incidents and non-violent urban activities since the fourth quarter of 2020.
A report from the Regional Intelligence Committee-4B further confirmed the absence of NPA guerilla formations in Palawan, supported by the lack of relevant intelligence reports since October 2021.
Additionally, on March 20, 2023, the Sangguniang Panlungsod declared Puerto Princesa a zone of peace and development, showing its support for the insurgency-free status.
The Western Command anticipates that Palawan’s newfound environment of peace will enhance the quality of life for its residents and make it a more attractive destination for visitors. (AI/MNM)
MANILA — Ernest John ‘EJ’ Obiena’s podium streak came to a halt in Zurich, marking the first time this year that he did not secure a top-three finish.
At the Letzigrund Stadium in Switzerland, Obiena, the Filipino pole vault sensation with a personal best of 6.0 meters, found himself at the bottom of the standings among a field of ten athletes. His clearance height in Zurich was 5.60 meters.
Initially, Obiena successfully vaulted over the 5.60-meter bar on his first attempt. However, when he raised the bar to 5.75 meters, he failed to clear it in two tries. In a final effort, he attempted 5.85 meters but was unsuccessful.
The reigning world No. 1 pole vaulter, Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis from Sweden, clinched the championship by clearing 6.0 meters. Duplantis made an ambitious attempt to break his own world record of 6.22 meters but fell short when he couldn’t clear the 6.23-meter bar after three tries.
American Sam Kendricks secured the silver medal with a 5.95-meter performance, while compatriot KC Lightfoot claimed the bronze with a 5.85-meter clearance.
Obiena’s impressive streak of 11 consecutive podium finishes was disrupted following his silver medal performance at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, where he equaled his personal best and Asian record of 6.0 meters, earning the Philippines its first-ever silver medal in the prestigious world event. (ai/mnm)
Anticipating an arduous contest, former NBA player Kyle Anderson is prepared for a formidable clash as the Chinese national team confronts Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Basketball World Cup classification phase at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on September 2, Saturday.
As a naturalized player for China, Anderson acknowledges the prowess of the Philippine team and foresees a demanding encounter, especially with the fervent support of the home crowd backing the Philippines.
“The atmosphere is going to be electric. The Philippine team is highly skilled, and they enjoy strong backing from their fans, so this match is bound to be challenging,” stated Anderson, who also competes for the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves.
In addition, Anderson, who is known by his Chinese name Li Kaier, eagerly awaits the opportunity to face off against fellow NBA player Jordan Clarkson, the naturalized player for the Philippines.
“I’ve been competing against him (Clarkson) since our college days, so going up against him is always enjoyable. Competing is a thrill. I’m eager to get ready for the game. We’re professionals, so I’m confident that all of us will be prepared,” Anderson expressed.
Similar to the Philippines in Group A, China also suffered three consecutive losses in Group B, culminating in an 89-107 defeat to Puerto Rico on August 30.
Nevertheless, both the Philippines and China still have a chance to secure direct berths in the Olympics, but they must triumph in their remaining classification phase matches to remain viable contenders.
Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, Anderson emphasized that China must address their shortcomings and strive for a consistent performance throughout the entire 40-minute game.
“The challenge lies in maintaining that consistency—it’s easier said than done. We need to find a way. There were instances where we demonstrated impressive gameplay, but we also had moments of lapse, myself included. We need to overcome this,” Anderson explained.
“It’s crucial that we prevent guards from infiltrating the paint. I personally need to enhance my defensive skills, and I believe this is a collective effort. It’s not confined to one or two players; it’s a collaborative endeavor that we need to resolve together.” (ai/mnm)
Another low-pressure area (LPA) is poised to transform into a tropical depression as Hanna departs on Saturday. The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) is closely monitoring clusters of clouds that could consolidate within the next 24 hours, potentially evolving into a tropical depression over the upcoming weekend.
Nevertheless, Benison Estareja, a weather specialist, refrained from confirming whether this weather disturbance will enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and directly impact the nation.
Meanwhile, the Pagasa forecaster noted that Severe Tropical Storm “Hanna” (known internationally as Haikui) continues its west-northwest trajectory across the Philippine Sea. There is a possibility that it might intensify into a typhoon within the next 24 hours.
Hanna’s center was pinpointed at approximately 870 kilometers east of the northernmost part of Luzon. It is moving at a speed of 20 kilometers per hour (kph) with maximum sustained winds reaching 110kph near its core, accompanied by gusts of up to 135kph, as reported by the state-operated meteorological agency.
Pagasa’s stance is that this severe tropical storm is not expected to bring significant rainfall across the country during the projected period.
“However, the southwest monsoon (‘habagat’), which is currently augmented by Hanna, Typhoon ‘Saola’ (previously ‘Goring,’ already beyond PAR), and Severe Tropical Storm ‘Kirogi’ situated over the Pacific Ocean, will induce sporadic to monsoon rains over the western portion of Luzon in the forthcoming three days,” Estareja conveyed. (ai/mnm)
The Philippines’ Gilas Pilipinas came up short against South Sudan Thursday night as the Nationals absorbed a 68-87 drubbing in the FIBA World Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
It was the fourth straight loss by Gilas Pilipinas in as many outings, dashing the hopes of the Nationals of cornering a slot for the 2024 Paris Olympics through the FIBA World Cup.
It may be harder but there is still one remaining option for the Chot-Reyes mentored Gilas Pilipinas but they must hurdle top-tier teams through FIBA Olympics Qualifying tournaments.
South Sudan came away with guns ablaze and the African Kings ripped through in the first two quarters, posting a huge 18-point advantage, 51-33, at the half.
Displaying the same intensity and tenacity that gave them a 20-point blowout, upset win over China 89-69 earlier, South Sudan seemingly had it so good in the first two quarters.
Given the opportunity and proper penetration through Gilas’ defense, South Sudan erected leads of as many as 21 points, 51-30, going into the final two minutes of play in the first half.
Compared to Gilas Pilipinas’ 4 of 13 shooting average from beyond the arc, South Sudan made nine 9 of 17 tries from beyond the perimeter.
But with Kai Sotto manning the boards well in the third canto, Gilas Pilipinas prevented Sudan from ripping the game wide open, and instead, the hosts trimmed the huge deficit down only four (4) points 56-60 capped with a Sotto slam.
However, it was the closest they got as Sudan responded by padding the lead comfortably back to a double-digit edge, 72-61, with 4:31 remaining.
The possibility remains for Gilas to secure a berth in the Paris Olympics.
The Philippine squad is familiar with this setup, having participated in 2016 and 2020.
A total of 24 teams will contend across four Olympic qualifying tournaments.
However, this presents a formidable challenge, as Gilas would need to outperform numerous top-tier global teams to secure one of the four available slots.
This is the reason why securing the slot in the FIBA World Cup is a tall order as it eliminates the need to tread the needle’s eye.
But luck was not on Gilas’ side all throughout its previous four outings.
The last assignment for Gilas in the FIBA World Cup is against China on Saturday considered as a no-bearing game.
South Sudan waylaid China by 20 points a few days ago but it retains its place as the 27th-ranked team in the world.
On the other hand, Gilas holds the 40th spot.
(ai/mnm)
MANILA – Retail prices of subsidized bread, known to consumers as “Pinoy Tasty” and “Pinoy Pandesal” will remain unchanged despite rising costs of raw materials and other operational expenses, according to officers of the Assosasyon ng Panaderong Pilipino (APP).
In an interview on Thursday, APP president Lucito Chavez said any change in retail prices of subsidized bread is subject to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) approval because they are counted on the list of basic commodities.
He noted that Pinoy Tasty is still priced at PHP40.50 for every 450-gram pack, while a similarly-sized pack of Pinoy Pandesal still retails for PHP38.50.
Chavez said the prices of both products are standardized across small or large retail outlets, and there are no indications that prices will change anytime soon.
Pinoy Tasty and Pinoy Pandesal were the result of a collaboration between the local bakery industry and the DTI under an earlier administration, wherein various bakeries produced a common “generic bread” using less sugar and cheaper raw materials, and packaged in the same manner.
For her part, Martha Comia, also an APP officer, said community bakeries are struggling to keep their prices within reach of the consuming public.
She said that bakeries want to limit their price increases to about 20 percent to avoid losing market share, even if certain kinds of bread, cakes, or pastries cost more to make than others.
“There are certain products that need to be raised by up to 50 percent for us (community bakeries) to make a decent profit. These are often the products that consume a lot of eggs and butter, and other expensive ingredients. But we realize that we cannot do that, so different bakeries are coping in their own way,” Comia pointed out.
She also said the rising price of liquified petroleum gas (LPG) has been particularly painful to bakers.
The APP represents small and medium-sized community-based bakeries, which are distinguished from large industrial bakeries that often distribute their products via supermarkets.
Meanwhile, Ricardo Pinca, executive director of the Philippine Association of Flour Millers (PAFMIL), told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) that prices of flour have been stable despite recent inflation surges, and have settled “close to pre-Ukraine war levels.”
He said that PAFMIL members are not responsible for recent and impending increases in the prices of flour-based products and they even serve to mitigate price pressures.
“Flour prices are relatively low at the moment. Our customers tell us that the rise in their costs is mostly coming from increases in the prices of sugar, salt, shortening, rentals, and even packaging material,” he noted.
Pinca said locally-milled flour currently sells for PHP900 to PHP960 per 25-kilogram bag, substantially lower compared to the over PHP1,000 price tag last year.
It was explained that international prices of flour surged in 2022 due to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, as the two countries hold up to 40 percent of the world’s exportable stocks of wheat. (PNA)
ANKARA – The world’s population has shot past 8 billion, even as its growth rate has slowed.
The figure rose from 7 billion in 2011 and 6 billion in 1999, according to data compiled by Anadolu ahead of World Population Day on July 11.
The world is expected to have more than 10 billion people by 2100, a report from the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) showed.
India is expected to be the most populous country in 2023 with 1.428 billion people, followed by China with 1.425 billion and the US with 340 million.
Eight countries – the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Tanzania – will account for more than half of the predicted increase in the world population by 2050.
With 85.28 million inhabitants, Türkiye was the world’s 18th-most populous country last year, according to TurkStat, the state statistics authority. (Anadolu)
ANKARA – North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile into the East Sea on Wednesday, according to the South Korean military.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said it detected the launch from an area in or around Pyongyang at about 10 a.m. (0100GMT), Seoul-based Yonhap News reported.
The missile, which was fired at a “lofted trajectory,” reached a maximum altitude of about 6,000 kilometers (3,728 miles) and flew for about 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) before splashing down west of Hokkaido’s Okushiri Island outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone, according to Japan’s Defense Ministry.
Its flight time of 74 minutes was the longest yet for a North Korean missile, the ministry added.
North Korea test-fired two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast on June 15 in response to military drills staged by the US and South Korea.
The latest launch came just a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s sister Kim Yo-jong warned that Pyongyang would take “clear and resolute” action against US surveillance flights within the North’s “economic water zone.” (Anadolu)
MANILA – A total of 16 teams advance to the second round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup after the final day of first round action Wednesday night.
Moving on to the next phase are Brazil, Georgia, Greece, Puerto Rico, Serbia, Slovenia, Australia, Canada, Dominican Republic, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Montenegro, Spain and the United States.
Here are the groups for the second round:
Group I: Serbia, Dominican Republic, Italy and Puerto Rico
Group J: USA, Lithuania, Greece and Montenegro
Group K: Slovenia, Germany, Australia and Georgia
Group L: Canada, Spain, Brazil and Latvia
Teams carry their first round records into the second round where they will compete for quarterfinals berths. Two top teams of the four groups qualify for the final phase.
No team from Asia or Africa regions made it to the next phase but they still have chances to book a ticket to the Paris Olympics.
The 16 teams that did not make it past the first round will continue their campaigns in the Classification Round 17-32, with direct qualification for the Olympics and the Olympic Qualifying Tournaments on the line.
Race to Paris 2024
The World Cup directly qualifies seven teams for the Olympic Games, with host France receiving an automatic qualification.
The seven spots include two teams from the Americas, two teams from Europe, one team from Africa, one team from Asia and one team from Oceania.
The teams that advanced to the second round are already assured of an Olympic Qualifying Tournament spot but these are also well within reach for the teams in the lower half of the standings.
Eight teams are set to earn qualification through the classification round 17-32.
This includes the highest-placed team from each region of Africa, Americas and Asia/Oceania, after those directly qualified for the Olympics, regardless of the final position.
For Asia, Japan (1-2) has a slight edge over the other five Asian teams after winning against Finland.
However, their place is far from assured, despite all other teams being winless so far.
The Philippines and China will play each other in the newly-formed Group M, while Iran and Lebanon cross paths in Group P.
Jordan, who got close to beating New Zealand in the first round before falling in overtime, is bunched under Group N.
The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 will conclude on Sept. 10 with the champions being crowned at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. (PNA/FIBA)
MANILA – Puerto Rico and Greece moved on to the FIBA Basketball World Cup Round of 16 after beating their opponents in contrasting manners on Wednesday night.
At the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Puerto Rico joined Serbia as the top two finishers for Group B with a 107-89 win against China.
Needing only a win to advance, Puerto Rico did so in style, slowly but surely dominating China in the first half en route to a 52-37 halftime lead.
China played brilliantly in the third quarter to cut the lead down to nine, 78-69, entering the fourth, but Puerto Rico bounced back mightily in the fourth quarter to seal the rout.
Tremont Waters led Puerto Rico, which completes the cast for Group I along with Serbia, the Dominican Republic and Italy, with 22 points, three rebounds, six assists, and four steals.
Ismael Romero added 18 points and 10 rebounds as Puerto Rico also relegated South Sudan to the classification games–and a Thursday night clash with Gilas Pilipinas virtually without rest.
Zhao Jiwei led China, which will face Angola also on Thursday night in its own consolation game, with 14 points, one rebound, five assists and one steal.
The result also means a showdown between China and Gilas Pilipinas for potentially an outright seat in the Paris Olympics is set on Saturday night.
Meanwhile, Greece booked its place in the second round with an 83-74 win against New Zealand at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Greece turned things around in the second half, holding New Zealand, which led by as much as 13 points in the second quarter, to just 11 third-quarter points before completing the comeback with a 33-point fourth quarter.
Ioannis Papapetrou led Greece, which joined the United States of America as the Group C team that advanced further into the World Cup, with 27 points, six rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block.
Giannoulis Larentzakis added 20 points and two rebounds.
Shea Ili led New Zealand with 27 points, five rebounds, eight assists, and one steal, while Finn Delany added 10 points, 14 rebounds, four assists, and two steals.
With New Zealand missing the Top 16 cut, Australia will be the lone Oceania representative to the Paris Olympics men’s 5×5 basketball event. (PNA)
By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Two (2) roads in Metro Manila are currently impassable while seven (7) others have limited access due to flooding brought by Southwest Monsoon rains enhanced by Typhoon “Goring.”
Based on the 12:00 noon, August 31, 2023 report of the Department of Public Works and Highways-Bureau of Maintenance, the following roads are not passable to all types of vehicles due to flooding:
Quezon City (Not Passable)
1) G. Araneta Avenue corner Maria Clara Street
2) Domingo Avenue corner Calamba Street
The following five (5) roads in the City of Manila and two (2) other roads in Quezon City are also flooded and only passable to heavy vehicles:
Manila (Passable to Heavy Vehicles Only)
1) Blumentritt Street, Sampaloc
2) Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard, Pureza – Hippodromo and V. Mapa to SM Sta. Mesa
3) Tayuman Street corner Jose Abad Santos Avenue
4) J.P. Rizal Avenue Corner Claro M. Recto Avenue
5) Mel Lopez Boulevard corner C-2 and Moriones Street
Quezon City (Passable to Heavy Vehicles Only)
1) G. Araneta Avenue near E. Rodriguez Sr. Avenue
2) Elliptical Road near Quezon Avenue
Meanwhile, six (6) roads in the Cordillera Administrative Region and Region 1 remain impassable namely:
1) Claveria-Calanasan-Kabugao Road in Brgy. Ferdinand, Calanasan (Bayag), Apayao due to landslide
2) Abra – Kalinga Road, Subagan, Licuan-Baay (Licuan), Abra due to landslide
3) Kennon Road in Camp One, Tuba, Benguet as a precautionary measure
4) Dantay Sagada Road, Brgy. Antadao, Sagada, Mt.Province due to roadcut/collapsed pavement
5) Baguio-Bontoc Road, Brgy. Sinto, Bauko, Mt.Province due to roadcut/collapsed pavement, rock/slope collapse
6) Roxas Bridge, Vigan-San Vicente Road, Ilocos Sur due to scoured bridge abutment.
The DPWH-BOM also identified the following roads in Mt. Province, Ilocos Sur, and Batangas with limited access:
1) Jct Talubin-Barlig-Natonin-Paracelis-Calaccad Road in Bry. Sta. Isabel, Natonin, Mt. Province, one lane passable to light vehicles only due to soil collapse
2) Vigan Bridge 1 and 2 along Bantay-Vigan Road in Brgy. 1, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, one lane passable to light vehicles only due to damaged abutment protection and bridge approach
3) Nasugbu-Lian-Calatagan Road, Brgy. Putting Kahoy, Lian, Batangas, one Lane passable to light vehicles only due to scoured shoulder and roadcut/collapsed pavement
(ai/mnm)
The Sisters from The Holy Face of Jesus extended solemn prayers on Thursday, August 31, 2023, for the animals residing at Malabon Zoo. This act of devotion was in celebration of the World Day of Prayers for the Care of Creation as designated by Pope Francis.
Manny Tangco, the owner and founder of Malabon Zoo located in Malabon City, bestowed the name “Sir George” upon a white lion cub. Additionally, he announced that visiting teachers would enjoy a complimentary entrance to the zoo as part of the commemoration of Teacher’s Month. (Photo by BENJAMIN CUARESMA/ai/mnm)
By Benjamin Cuaresma
The much-awaited “Grand Job Expo” originally set for Thursday, August 31, 2023, has regrettably been called off due to heavy rainfall overnight, resulting in flooding provoked by the southwest monsoon-influenced by typhoon Goring.
Fernan Bermejo, Director of the Manila Public Employment Office (PESO), indicated that approximately 500 to 1,000 individuals who were looking for job opportunities would have potentially secured employment through the planned Grand Job Expo, initially planned for Thursday, August 31, 2023, at San Pablo Apostol Parish Church in Velazquez, St, Tondo, Manila.
Further details about rescheduling the Grand Job Expo will be provided as soon as the weather situation stabilizes.
In a parallel development, Mayor Honey Lacuna of Manila has issued an official directive to suspend work for all Manila City Hall personnel and its affiliated branches, with the exception of the Disaster and Emergency Response units.
The Manila local government has also made the decision to suspend classes at all educational levels across both private and public schools within the city.
This encompasses both online and in-person instruction, owing to flooding across certain areas of Metro Manila caused by the intense overnight rainfall associated with the southwest monsoon. (ai/mnm)