By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Once more, the stretch of United Nations Avenue and Taft Avenue in Manila has been rendered almost impassable as the incessant downpour from the morning of Thursday, August 31, 2023, caused by the southwest monsoon, submerged the area in knee-deep water.
The overnight rain, propelled by the southwest monsoon, resulted in flooding across various parts of Metro Manila.
Despite the challenges posed by the knee-deep waters, numerous commuters courageously navigated through them.
Unfortunately, some individuals found themselves stranded due to the delayed announcement of class suspensions.
As early as 8:00 AM, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued a yellow warning for Metro Manila, Zambales, and Bataan, indicating the persistence of heavy rainfall throughout the day.
Captured in photographs: Commuters and motorists braving the knee-deep waters along UN Avenue. Meanwhile, young people seized the opportunity to derive enjoyment from the unfavorable weather, engaging in swimming and playful activities in the flooded expanse of UN Avenue. (ai/mnm)
In a Philippine residential area, a tragic incident unfolded on Thursday as a fire claimed the lives of 15 individuals in a small garment factory.
The firefighters tasked with responding to the emergency faced multiple obstacles, including flooding, traffic congestion, and even being provided with an incorrect address, according to a fire protection official.
The majority of the victims were apparently factory employees and carpenters who were asleep in their rooms when the fire erupted on Thursday morning. Several were discovered lifeless in an aisle adjacent to the rooms.
Shockingly, the factory owner and their child were among those who perished, as revealed by Chief Superintendent Nahum Tarroza from the Bureau of Fire Protection.
Amidst the chaos, three individuals managed to survive by leaping from the second floor of the two-story factory in a desperate bid to escape. They were subsequently transported to a hospital for treatment.
The arrival of the firefighters was severely delayed, approximately by 14 minutes, due to a combination of monsoon-induced heavy rainfall, gusty winds causing flooding, traffic bottlenecks, and the confusion stemming from an inaccurate address provided to the responders, as explained by Tarroza.
Prompted by this unfortunate event, Tarroza expressed his intention to initiate an inquiry into the delayed response of the firefighting team.
The fire, which engulfed the Pleasant View residential enclave situated in Tandang Sora village, a suburban area of Quezon City, was ultimately extinguished after a two-hour struggle. Authorities are actively investigating the root cause of the fire as well as any potential violations of safety protocols by the factory owner.
The factory itself stored a combination of flammable materials and textiles used in clothing production. Additionally, it was involved in printing designs on shirts intended for business promotions, and for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections according to local village officials.
Regrettably, instances of non-compliant building construction and residential developments, coupled with the lax enforcement of safety standards, have previously led to fatal fires in the Philippines.
A haunting precedent was set in 1996 when a nightclub fire in Quezon City claimed the lives of 162 individuals, the majority of whom were students celebrating the conclusion of the school year.
The tragedy occurred within the confines of the Ozone disco, where around 400 people were present at the time. Tragically, many were unable to escape due to an obstructed emergency exit caused by a neighboring newly-constructed building.
The blaze resulted in 93 additional injuries, making it one of the most significant nightclub fires in recent decades on a global scale. (AI/MNM)
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief, General Romeo Brawner Jr., is contemplating a rejuvenation or refurbishment of the grounded BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal.
This initiative is part of a larger strategy to enhance soldiers’ living conditions while safeguarding the nation’s territory against Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Brawner emphasized, “We possess the authority to refurbish our BRP Sierra Madre vessel” and ensure it becomes habitable for our troops. Ayungin Shoal is just one of nine islands where the Philippines has established structures. The remaining eight are Parola, Pagasa, Kota, Panata, Likas, Law, Patag, and Rizal Reef islands.
In March 2014, the dilapidated Philippine Navy ship, LT 57 (Sierra Madre), with deployed troops, was positioned off Ayungin Shoal, also known as Second Thomas Shoal, in the South China Sea.
The chief underscored the necessity to “sustain, support, and strengthen the presence of the Philippine military in these fiercely disputed waters.” However, he declined to divulge specifics about the timeline, reiterating that the AFP is responsible for ensuring the soldiers’ welfare.
Regarding the transportation of construction materials for BRP Sierra Madre, Brawner asserted, “Any objections are baseless. The Philippine ship is situated within our exclusive economic zone (EEZ).” He reaffirmed the right to carry out resupply missions, safeguard the EEZ, and ensure soldiers’ safety aboard BRP Sierra Madre.
Brawner proposed the engagement of civilian boats to transport materials, though the frequency of these trips remained uncertain. He endorsed using gray ships to convey essential cargo to Ayungin Shoal, primarily to prolong the dilapidated ship’s life and avoid potential clashes with Chinese entities.
Emphasizing comprehensive interagency coordination, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo highlighted the necessity of safeguarding Philippine sovereignty and rights in maritime zones. During his visit to the Philippine Coast Guard headquarters, Manalo stressed the importance of this approach. (ai/mnm)
Zamboanga City – Mark Christian Ursabia of the University of Mindanao-Davao needed only less than three minutes to stop local bet Renz Pejana of Zamboanga del Sur Provincial College in the finals of the Philippine Army kickboxing event Thursday of the 2023 ROTC Games Mindanao Leg at the Western Mindanao State University gym here.
The 21-year-old second-year BS Criminology student Ursabia displayed a strong kick to win the gold in just one round of their 60-kgs. category. and advance into the national finals tentatively set in October in Manila and Pasig City.
“I am very overwhelmed by this win. I never thought of it this way. This is my first gold, I hope I can maintain my energy in the national finals,” said the five-foot-10 Ursabia.
But not to be outdone, Army student cadet Angelie Musa of Sibugay Technical Institute likewise won by TKO in the first round over Patricia Virtudazo of Surigao del Norte State University in the 56-kgs. category.
The other Army division bouts, saw Prince Alfred Remolado winning by referee stop contest in the second round over Muamar Laduka of Southern Mindanao College in the 57-kgs. bout.
After the 21-year-old Remolado, a marine biology student hit Laduka in the nose hard, the referee stepped in immediately to stop the oozing of the blood.
Shariff Cammah Alkhamar of Aurelio Mendoza Memorial College survived a scary close 2-1 score over Ernesto Delfin Jr. in the Army’s 63.5-kgs. category.
Grace Shiela Toledo of Surigao del Norte State University main campus likewise scored a close 2-1 victory over Jonabelle Mondejan of Zamboanga del Sur Provincial College in the Army’s women’s 60-kgs. bout.
In the Air Force competition, Michael John Etac of Nuevo Zamboanga College scored the only knockout victory after flooring Kent Datumanong of Ramon Magsaysay Memorial College in the first round of their 57-kgs. bout.
Local favorite Camille Joy Sanchez of Western Mindanao State University escaped a close 2-1 triumph over Muzaina Mataul of Mindanao State University in the PAF 52-kgs. Class.
The exciting boxing bouts of the Philippine Army have Jade Cabaya of Agusan del Sur College of Agriculture and Technology winning the gold that relegated John Carlo Ombalino of Jose Rizal State University to the silver medal in the 48-51-kgs. category.
Bryl Bayogos of 12 RCDG won over Rey Lalangan of Jose Rizal Memorial State University in the Army’s +54-57-kgs. bout. Alwin Owang of Agusan del Sur College of Agriculture and Technology brought home the bronze medal.
Mark Paul Fernandez of ST-Cast-Santo Tomas, Davao proved too much for Robin Tinambing of Aurelio Mendoza Memorial College to win the gold. Mendoza settled for the silver in the Army’s +51-54-kgs. of the Army bouts while John Kyle Gotong of Agusan del Sur College of Agriculture and Technology and Alexander James Celeste of Philippine Christian School finished with the bronze medals apiece. (ai/mnm)
BULACAN — A rice warehouse in this province has been instructed to shut down due to its inability to present the necessary documentation.
In an unexpected turn of events today (Wednesday, 30 August 2023), House Speaker Martin Romualdez, along with Erwin Tulfo, a representative from the Anti-Crime and Terrorism Community Involvement and Support (ACT-CIS) partylist, and Alvin Enciso, the head of Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), carried out impromptu inspections at rice warehouses in Balagtas and Boaue, both located in Bulacan.
Following a thorough evaluation led by CIIS Chief Alvin Enciso, it was revealed that the suspected warehouses, which were under suspicion for involvement in rice smuggling and hoarding, have been temporarily ordered to halt their operations. This action was taken due to their inability to furnish the necessary legal documents required for their business operations.
Photographs featuring the substantial quantities of rice stored within the Balagtas and Bocaue warehouses depict the locations that have been directed to cease their activities. (Benjamin Cuaresma/ai/mnm)
Although the Group Phase has concluded for Gilas Pilipinas, their determination remains unwavering. Despite a 0-3 performance, the Philippines’ focus has shifted towards two crucial classification games that will determine their destiny in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.
With no intention of surrender, the Philippines pushes forward, eyeing their chances in these two upcoming matches.
The first match is set for Thursday, August 31, followed by the second on September 2.
These encounters hold the potential to secure a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics, as the highest-ranking Asian team from the World Cup will represent the region.
While the final standings in Group B are yet to be determined, Serbia currently holds a secure position at No. 1 with a 2-0 record.
This leaves China, Puerto Rico, and South Sudan as potential pathways for Gilas Pilipinas to earn their ticket to Paris, with the definitive placements to be revealed on Wednesday.
The upcoming match at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Thursday will require substantial support from fans, given its significance.
Despite the Philippines’ winless streak in Group A, the dream of participating in the Olympics persists within the hearts of every Filipino.
Gilas Pilipinas is poised to face off against the third and fourth-place teams from Group B, marking crucial showdowns.
Anticipation for the game is high, with a sold-out crowd anticipated to wear blue in solidarity with the team’s unwavering spirit.
The clash is scheduled for an 8 p.m. tip-off, and Gilas Pilipinas is mentally prepared for another challenging battle.
“We’re incredibly motivated. Our motivation has been there from the start. Our team possesses strength and resilience, consistently fighting until the final moments of the game,” stated Jordan Clarkson, reflecting on the team’s valiant effort against Italy, despite a narrow loss of 90-83.
Clarkson believes that the Philippines is on the brink of discovering the winning formula, poised to make the final push to overcome challenges. Despite narrow defeats against Dominican Republic, Angola, and Italy, the team remains determined.
“We’ve always felt that we’re in every game. We fight relentlessly and possess the strength to rally. We’re capable of turning things around and securing these two victories. We understand the significance, both for us and our nation. We’re giving it our all,” declared the standout player of Gilas Pilipinas.
The race for the solitary Olympic slot allocated to Asia remains fiercely contested, with Japan leading the charge after finishing the initial round with a 1-2 record. Carrying over their 0-3 record from the Group Phase, Gilas Pilipinas hopes for losses from Japan and other Asian teams, while they secure victories to emerge as the highest-ranked Asian team in the tournament.
Coach Chot Reyes had Paris and the Olympics on his mind even prior to the Italy game.
“Our focus is on delivering 40 minutes of solid basketball because our goal is to qualify for the Olympics,” affirmed Reyes. “I’m not fixated on the numbers. What matters to me is earning that Olympic berth.” (ai/mnm)
MANILA – The Philippine Transportation and Communications Authority (PhilTraCom), a staunch advocate against fraud and misinformation, is calling upon the Senate to initiate an inquiry into the persistent cases of mobile-related fraud, even after the successful enactment of the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card law.
Senator Grace Poe, in alignment with this cause, has already voiced her intent to lead an investigation into the continuing prevalence of text scams and the illicit exploitation of SIM cards in “illegal POGO operations.”
“We wholeheartedly endorse Senator Grace Poe’s proactive stance and are hopeful that the Senate will promptly undertake this matter,” affirmed Aio Bautista, Chief of PhilTraComm, on Monday.
It’s worth recalling that as far back as March 2023, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. disclosed a 93.3% reduction in text scams since the implementation of the controversial Republic Act 11934, also known as the SIM card registration law.
“Regrettably, nearly a year has passed since the law’s enactment, and after the conclusion of the SIM registration extension on July 25, 2023, instances of text scams and other mobile-related frauds persistently populate news pages and social media platforms,” added Bautista.
“Furthermore, considering the recent crackdowns on POGO establishments, where authorities uncovered the use of thousands of SIM cards for illegal operations, the situation is even more concerning,” Bautista emphasized.
Numerous mobile users have attested to the ongoing prevalence of text scams, with some even sharing screenshots of these messages with various mainstream media outlets.
Most recently, on June 27, 2023, law enforcement confiscated approximately 80,000 SIM cards during a raid on Xinchuang Network Technology, Inc., a registered Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator located in Las Pinas City.
“We can’t help but wonder how many more instances of SIM-related fraud there would be if President Marcos hadn’t signed the SIM card registration law. Incidents of text scams, spam, and other illicit activities would likely be even more rampant,” asserted Bautista.
He further emphasized that the implementing agencies, telecommunication companies, and law enforcement bodies must collaborate to investigate how thousands of SIMs utilized in fraudulent operations managed to register. This investigation should ascertain whether they were registered under fictitious identities or by willing victims who sold their identities.
Meanwhile, other digital advocates have welcomed Poe’s proposal for a Senate investigation, given the surge in text scams and fraud.
“With only a few months elapsed since the enforcement of the SIM registration law, we’ve observed the resurgence of text scams and other unsolicited messages on our mobile devices and social media platforms,” Ronald Gustilo, the national campaigner of Digital Pinoys, remarked in a statement to mainstream media.
“This inquiry will highlight that SIM registration alone isn’t sufficient to deter these scammers.”
Concurrently, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) recently asserted that criminals have adapted their tactics to continue victimizing people, even in the wake of SIM card registration. This includes the creation of counterfeit SIM registration sites.
Gustilo underscored that the law has only inconvenienced the public and compromised their privacy by exposing their personal information to risks.
They argued that it’s time to debate the suspension of the law, while also considering an independent review to evaluate the ongoing necessity of R.A. 11934.
“It’s clear that the law has failed to prevent scam and spam texts due to the availability of technology that enables sending SMS messages without traditional SIMs. We’ve been vocal about this from the beginning,” Gustilo added.
“We urge the government to promptly suspend and reassess the implementation of the law, along with its efficacy in combating scam and spam texts. An ineffective law that jeopardizes public privacy and personal information is something we can’t afford.” (ai/mnm)
Militant groups Alliance of Concerned Teachers and League of Filipino Students gathered near the historic Mendiola Bridge in Manila, to press education-related issues recently. Their grievances found expression on banners and signs, reading messages such as: “Let’s Eliminate the Confidential Intelligence Fund of VP Sara Duterte, and Allocate the Resources to Essential Student Services,” “Enhance the Education Budget, Implement Immediate 50,000 Salary Raise,” and “Elevate the Education Budget to 6% of GDP,” among other similar appeals.
Reports from the Manila Police District Officers on site indicate that the demonstrators dispersed peacefully at the conclusion of the rally. (Benjamin Cuaresma/AI/MNM)
By Benjamin Cuaresma
Physicians gathered on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, in Sampaloc Manila and proceeded to the premises of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to attend the preliminary proceedings on their grievances with the agency against Dr. Lorraine Marie T. Taboy.
With banners in hand, the assembled group leveled allegations at Dr. Badoy, asserting that her injurious remarks aimed at Dr. Natividad “Naty” Castro, a certified medical practitioner deeply involved in community healthcare, amounted to “red-tagging.”
Dr. Taboy had implicated Dr. Castro as an active participant within the CPP-NPA-NDF, supposedly participating in activities like recruitment, training, and fundraising.
Furthermore, they implored the commission to take punitive measures against Dr. Taboy and to revoke her medical license due to the allegations and red-tagging allegedly directed at Dr. Castro. (AI/MNM)
Walter Sam Jr. of MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology and Mary Fe Bagawisan show fine form
Zamboanga City – Walter Sam Jr. of MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology and Mary Fe Bagawisan of Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Dipolog garnered similar 8.833 total points to rule Philippine Army’s arnis anyo single weapon non-traditional event yesterday in the 2023 ROTC Games Mindanao Leg at the Western Mindanao State University Gym here.
Sam Jr., a second year BS Physical Education and veteran WEKAF campaigner, gained the nod of all five judges to win the golds and relegated Francisco Carballo of Initao College in Misamis Oriental; to the silver medal with 8.767 points. Kent Declaro Lagoy of JH Cerilles College in Zamboanga del Sur was third with 8.700 points.
“It is my desire to become a member of the national team. If given the chance, I’ll do my best,” said the 20-year-old Bagawisan, a silver medalist in the WEKAF world championship held in Cebu City last year.
The 20-year-old Bagawisan displayed enough precision to convince the five judges for the top reward. Ivy Jane Hernandez also of Initao College, Misamis Oriental, settled for the silver with 8.733 points and Maricel Campos of JRMSU was third with 8.633.
“I really wanted to become a policeman investigator. That’s really my ambition. But if given the opportunity to be a member of the national team, I will be thankful for it,” said Bagawisan, a second year BS Criminology student.
Clarence Ronolo of WMSU was the only entry for the Air Force, thus he will still advance in the men’s arnis anyo single weapon non-traditional event in the forthcoming national finals tentatively set in October in Manila and Pasig City.
Teammates Sara Graciano and Chely Canibog, both of WNSU claimed the gold and silver medal in the Air Force’ women’s contest. They were the only duo who participated in the anyo non-traditional event.
Jade Flores of Davao del Norte College in Panabo, Daval del Norte and Elijah Yuan Sanchez of Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology were also the lone participants in the Navy’s men’s anyo non-traditional event.
Flores took the gold and the silver medal for Sanchez as both will still see action in the national finals. Alexandra Secang of Davao del Norte State College-Panabo was the only entry in the Navy’s women’s anyo non-traditional event, giving her the opportunity to see action in the finals in Manila.
Exciting actions will continue today with the staging of boxing’s finals event at the Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University gym while other finals events in arnis will continue at the WMSU court and basketball 3×3 on Saturday before the closing ceremonies at the Southern City Colleges West. (ai/mnm)
PHILIPPINE Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino (left) welcomes boxing icon Manny Pacquiao’s desire to fight in next year’s Paris Olympics.
BOXING icon Manny Pacquiao wants to extend his legendary boxing career with a shot at an Olympic medal in Paris next year.
Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said on Wednesday that Pacquiao’s camp reached out on how the former eighth-division world champion could qualify for Paris.
The POC, Tolentino said, has started conferring with the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) which is supervising Olympic boxing while the International Boxing Association is suspended.
“Senator Pacquiao’s camp reached out saying our Filipino ring idol wants to fight in Paris,” Tolentino said. “But the Senator can no longer vie for qualification in the Asian Games in Hangzhou next month.”
The Asian Games—an Olympic qualifier—has an age limit for athletes at 40 years old in all sports and according to Tolentino, Pacquiao, who’s 44 years old, could qualify for Paris through two Olympic qualifying tournaments set in the first and second quarters of 2024.
The third, Tolentino said, is for Pacquiao to secure a berth under the Universality rule, which the IOC would grant. There are, however, only nine places under Universality at the Paris Games—five for women and only four for men.
A close aide of Pacquiao confirmed that the former senator is willing to fight in the Olympics and that they have already reached out to Tolentino.
Tolentino also said that the ABAP, through its chairman Ricky Vargas, will welcome Pacquiao to the national team and will assist in his qualification.
Pacquiao currently weighs 66 kgs and has to choose between 63.50 kgs or 71 kgs that are on the Paris boxing program.
Professional boxers have been allowed to compete at the Olympics and in Tokyo, 43 of the 186 competitors were professionals, including middleweight bronze medalist Eumir Felix Marcial, who beat fellow professional, Armenia’s Arman Darchinyan, in the quarterfinals.
Prior to Tokyo, Marcial booked his first professional victory—unanimous decision over American Andrew Whitfield on December 16, 2020, in Los Angeles.
Marcial opted to delay his fifth professional fight in September and will focus on his return to the Olympics through Hangzhou where he’ll be fighting as a light heavyweight. (AI/MNM)
Senator Win Gatchalian has filed a bill seeking to penalize individuals who willingly allow themselves to be used as money mules, those who engage in social engineering schemes, and other fraudulent financial schemes.
Aligned with the administration’s commitment to expand digital transactions, safeguarding the public from scammers and abusive online lenders, Gatchalian filed Senate Bill 2407, known as the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act. “We need to protect the integrity of the country’s financial system and ensure that financial accounts and their owners are protected and are not exploited or lured by cybercriminals or criminal syndicates into the commission of an unlawful or fraudulent activity,” Gatchalian emphasized as he filed the proposed measure.
He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the significance of cashless transactions and digital payments. However, given the rapid growth and popularity of digital financial services, the rise of financial-related cybercrimes followed. “Cybercriminals started taking advantage of technologies to transfer illicit or stolen funds across digital financial services, stealing vital information about account holders and taking over their accounts, or enticing account holders with gifts and incentives with the goal of covertly committing financial crimes,” he said.
In response to the increasing prevalence of such malevolent activities, the legislator stressed the pressing need to enact a measure that imposes penalties on individuals who willingly become conduits for illicit transactions, those who engage in manipulative social engineering tactics and other deceitful schemes that exploit financial accounts. This encompasses actions such as account takeover, recruiting or enlisting others to commit these acts, and perpetration of these acts on a significant scale comparable to economic sabotage that jeopardizes the security of Filipinos’ financial accounts and the integrity of the country’s financial system.
“For the past 3 years, the unsuspecting public lost millions of their hard-earned money to these cybercriminals,” Gatchalian said, citing as an example the “Mark Nagoyo” scam, in which more than 700 BDO Unibank customers’ accounts were hacked in late 2021, the unauthorized bank transfers that targeted government teachers with Landbank accounts in January last year in which the victims lost between P26,000 to P121,000 from the incident and the massive phishing incident involving GCash users in May this year.
“Operations of cybercriminals grew on a large scale, taking advantage of the unemployed, those who are looking for easy money, those who are unaware, and those who are willing to help others, and thriving in jurisdictions with very weak enforcements and penalties like the Philippines,” he noted. In fact, Kaspersky Security Network’s 2022 Report showed that the Philippines ranked 2nd among countries most attacked by web threats in 2022 and the most preferred attack method which includes social engineering schemes. (AI/MNM
Sen. Grace Poe asked concerned government agencies to temporarily put off the implementation of the new travel rules amid concerns raised by the public on the burdensome requirements.
“The lingering doubts and questions about the new rules must not be swept under the rug,” Poe said.
“Authorities must make traveling through our airports secure against human traffickers, but without being too complicated,” the chairperson of the Senate Committee on public services said.
Poe said a second look at the guidelines is in order to avert inconveniences, costs and legal complications that may be encountered by the passengers on the day of flight.
The senator said the concerns raised by individuals and various sectors about possible infringement of the right to travel and privacy matters as to the examination of one’s financial capacity are serious enough to merit a thorough review of the new protocols.
The long list of documents required of certain travelers also entails time and costs, an added burden to the travelers.
“We welcome the move to address delays and inefficiencies at our airports and curb the scourge of human trafficking. But, doing so should not be at the expense of legitimate Filipino travelers,” Poe said.
Instead, Poe said concerned agencies must train their sights on capacitating immigration personnel to spot trafficking, beefing up security at the country’s borders, and at the same time, cleansing their ranks of corrupt and inefficient people.
Poe has led Senate investigations on the delays and inefficiencies at the airports. She has also filed resolutions leading to inquiries on the trafficking of workers and cyber fraud operations in various hubs in the country.
“May kasabihan na kung may hinahanap kang daga, bakit mo susunugin ang buong bahay?” Poe said.
“Sa bagong patakarang ito, baka mas paparusahan pa ang ating mga kababayang lehitimong byahero kung hindi sasawatahin ang korapsyon sa loob ng ahensya,” Poe added. (AI/MNM)
NEW YORK – Novak Djokovic marked his return on Monday with a 6-0, 6-2, 6-3 victory over Alexandre Muller of France in the first round of the US Open, following a one-year hiatus.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion missed last year’s tournament, as he could not travel to the US due to not being vaccinated against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).
In the 2021 US Open, the Serbian finished as the runner-up, losing to Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in the final.
With this win, Djokovic will next face Spain’s Bernabe Zapata Miralles.
If successful, he stands to reclaim the world No. 1 ranking from Carlos Alcaraz. Alcaraz will defend his title against Germany’s Dominik Koepfer on Tuesday.
Also on Monday, China’s Zhang Zhizhen celebrated his first main draw win at the US Open, defeating Jeffrey John Wolf of the United States 7-5, 7-5, 6-7 (5), 4-6, 6-3 in a grueling match that lasted four hours and 29 minutes.
“I told myself before the decider: There is no problem, there is still one set to fight. I don’t have a lot of negative thoughts,” said Zhang.
He is slated to play against sixth-seed Casper Ruud of Norway in Round 2.
World No. 7 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece advanced, besting Canada’s Milos Raonic 6-2, 6-3, 6-4. However, fourth-seeded Holger Rune of Denmark was upset by Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena, who won 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2.
On the women’s side, all the Chinese participants competing Monday clinched their opening matches.
Wang Xiyu mounted a comeback to beat Viktoria Hruncakova of Slovakia 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (6), while Zhu Lin and Wang Xinyu dispatched their opponents in straight sets.
Elsewhere, Coco Gauff rallied into the second round, coming from behind to outpace Laura Siegemund of Germany. The 19-year-old, viewed as a potent threat to champion Iga Swiatek, lost the opening set 6-3 but responded with scores of 6-2, 6-4 in the subsequent sets.
World No. 1 Iga Swiatek of Poland dominated, crushing Sweden’s Rebecca Peterson 6-0, 6-1 in just under an hour.
Fourth-seeded Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan progressed smoothly, defeating Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk 6-2, 6-1. (Xinhua)
ISTANBUL – The 2023 World Athletics Championships in Hungary witnessed many firsts as team USA topped the medal standings with 33 medals.
The 19th edition of the championships took place from Aug. 19 to 27 and over 2,100 athletes from 202 countries made appearances in the competition.
The United States dominated the nine-day mega event with 33 medals (12 golds, eight silvers, and nine bronzes), ahead of Canada, who collected six golds, two silvers, and third-place Spain.
Spain bagged four golds and one silver medal.
Breaking new records
The USA 4x400m mixed relay team set a new world record at the Championships.
The quartet of Justin Robinson, Rosey Effiong, Matthew Boling, and Alexis Holmes finished the race in 3:08.80 ahead of Great Britain, who won silver, and bronze medallists Czechia (Czech Republic).
Ethan Katzberg from Canada made history on his debut at the championship. Setting a new national record in the hammer throw, Katzberg claimed the world title.
The 21-year-old captured the medal for his record-smashing fifth throw of 81.25 meters.
US star runner Grant Holloway became a three-time consecutive world champion. The American hurdler ran a season-best 12.96 seconds to win the men’s 110m hurdles final.
The 25-year-old was the champion in the 2019 Doha and 2022 USA events.
First Gold Medalists
Men’s category
400 meters: Antonio Watson (Jamaica)
800 meters: Marco Arop (Canada)
1500 meters: Josh Kerr (Great Britain)
Marathon: Victor Kiplangat (Uganda)
Javelin throw: Neeraj Chopra (India)
High jump: Gianmarco Tamberi (Italy)
Triple jump: Hugues Fabrice Zango (Burkina Faso)
Hammer throw: Ethan Katzberg (Canada)
Long jump: Miltiadis Tentoglou (Greece)
Women’s category
400 meters hurdles: Femke Bol (Netherlands)
800 meters: Mary Moraa (Kenya)
3000 meters steeplechase : Winfred Mutile Yavi (Bahrain)
Marathon: Amane Beriso Shankule (Ethiopia)
Javelin throw: Haruka Kitaguchi (Japan)
Long jump: Ivana Vuleta (Serbia)
Discus throw: Laulauga Tausaga (USA)
Pole vault: Nina Kennedy (Australia)
Hammer throw: Camryn Rogers (Canada)
High jump: Yaroslava Mahuchikh (Ukraine) (Anadolu)
MANILA – Serbia continued to exert its might in the FIBA World Cup, dealing Puerto Rico a 94-77 beating on Monday night at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Serbia dominated in the first half, taking a 57-27 lead against sloppy Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico somehow made things interesting in the second half, outscoring Serbia, 31-18, in the third quarter to cut the lead down to 17, 75-58, entering the fourth.
Puerto Rico even came to within 10, 71-81, midway through the fourth period, but a 13-2 Serbia run put an end to the upset bid.
Bogdan Bogdanovic and Nikola Jovic had 17 points for Serbia, which will eye a sweep Group B play against South Sudan on Wednesday.
Isaiah Pineiro led Puerto Rico, which fell to 1-1, with 14 points, one assist and one steal.
Meanwhile, the United States of America (USA) made quick work of Greece en route to a 109-81 win at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
After another slow start, Team USA got into the groove late in the first quarter and eventually pulled away for good.
Austin Reaves became the first Team USA player to score 15 points, five rebounds and five assists in the FIBA World Cup since 2010.
Jalen Brunson and Anthony Edwards each added 13 points for Team USA, which moved up to 2-0 in Group C.
Georgios Papagiannis tallied 17 points, three rebounds, two assists and one block for Greece (1-1). (PNA)
Group A Final Standings
Dominican Republic 3-0
Italy 2-1
Angola 1-2
Philippines 0-3
MANILA – Italy simply proved too hot to handle for Team Gilas Pilipinas.
As if working like a well-oiled machine, Italy buried the Nationals with three-point daggers resulting in a 90-83 victory while dousing cold any hopes that Gilas Pilipinas nurtured of barging into the next round in the 2023 Fiba Basketball World Cup.
The Nationals came into the game greatly hoping to grab a 12-point victory but Italy proved unstoppable from beyond the perimeter by bombing away with 17 triples in all.
It was Italy’s second victory in three games while the Philippines absorbed its third straight loss in as many outings and out of contention for the next round.
A huge hometown crowd filled the Araneta Coliseum but their presence failed to stop Italy from raiing down daggers from beyond the arc that came down almost at will, like missiles.
Into the final five minutes of play, Italy buried its 17th three-point in the game that gave them an unassailable 88-71 edge.
Gilas mounted its final stand via a 13-2 run that closed the gap to within seven points, 81-88, entering the final two minutes of play.
They tried to push it nearer to within four points but Kiefer Ravena’s triple try on their next ball possession rimmed out.
Two more free throws from Italy and a Ravena lay-up sealed the game.
Italy took the half ahead by nine (9), 48-39. PH lead by three at the end of the first canto, 23-20.
In Gilas’ initial match against the Dominican Republic on opening day last Friday (25 August 2023), the Nationals suffered a defeat with a score of 80-87, as they lost momentum in the fourth quarter.
Some quarters argue that the outcome could have favored Gilas Pilipinas had not main man Jordan Clarkson fouled out in the final three minutes of play due to consecutive fouls.
Moving on to Gilas’ second game on Sunday (27 August 2023) against Angola, the Nationals took the lead after the first quarter with a score of 19-12.
However, they once again struggled to maintain a strong defense and effective offense in the next three quarters.
The home team even managed to build an 11-point lead at one point, but unfortunately, they ended up losing their second match.
The downturn for Team PH came when Angola scored three consecutive three-pointers midway in the final quarter, turning a close three-point game into a 15-point lead.
Angola never looked back from there. (ai/mnm)
The late Mike Enriquez (GMA Network photo courtesy)
MANILA, Philippines – Esteemed broadcast journalist Mike Enriquez has passed away on Tuesday, August 29, as confirmed by GMA through its GMA News Facebook page and on the news program 24 Oras.
He was 71.
Enriquez’s illustrious career spanning over five decades in broadcasting commenced with an unexpected encounter in 1969.
During a 2022 interview with fellow journalist Pia Arcangel, Enriquez shared that what was intended as a visit to an old high school friend at the Manila Broadcasting Company transformed into a job application when his friend introduced him to the staff manager as a potential hire.
This serendipitous turn of events propelled the former disc jockey into the realms of broadcasting and journalism, eventually leading him to assume managerial roles within a radio network.
Enriquez contributed his expertise to the Freedom Broadcasting Network and Radio Mindanao Network (RMN), where he ascended to the position of vice president and board member.
Subsequently, he made a pivotal move to GMA Network in 1995, taking the reins of its radio division and spearheading its expansion efforts. (AI/MNM)
Brigadier General Andre Dizon, Director of the Manila Police District (left), along with Chairman George Erwin Garcia of the Commission on Elections (right), spearheaded a joint checkpoint operation involving the Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, and Philippine Coast Guard. This initiative marked the commencement of the Barangay Sangguniang Kabataan Election (BSBK) 2023. The inaugural ceremony took place at the Kartilya ng Katipunan on Monday, August 28, 2023.
(BENJAMIN CUARESMA/ai/mnm)
MANILA — Sufficient and nutritious meals, adequate standby areas and just workday hours. These were among the rights pushed by Sen. Robinhood “Robin” C. Padilla for “small” workers in the showbiz industry.
At the hearing of the Senate on the proposed “Eddie Garcia Act” where he is a co-author, Padilla stressed the observation of such rights are important to ensuring a smooth workflow in the industry he came from.
“The small workers are important to us because they are big stars… that’s why we are angry here for the small ones, because the big stars have food (The small workers are important to us. The big stars have money and they can afford to bring their own food),” he told the stakeholders at the hearing.
“I hope we can work together. We are not here to argue or disagree. We just want to have a very good workflow in our industry even though our industry is in a bit of trouble right now (We should help each other. We are not here to argue , but to ensure a smooth workflow in our industry even if our industry is now struggling),” he added.
Padilla reminded producers to ensure dietitians are in the workplace so performers and crew have the strength to do their work. “You stay up late and then you are given a basket of upo to eat. It is quite difficult (It would be difficult if you went without sleep then you are given only upo to eat),” he said.
He added there should be adequate and comfortable standby areas especially for senior and child performers. “When it comes to talents, they are often left to wait for their turn on the street,” he said.
Padilla likewise pushed for tax holidays to allow the industry to recover, “because I know producers are overtaxed.”
Joji Alonso of the Philippine Motion Picture Producers Association said they are amenable to a workday with a maximum of 14 hours. She said the industry is struggling because producers of movies produced this year earned only up to P12 million in a week, and in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) at that – a far cry from the P72 million they need to break even. (ai/mnm)