MANILA – Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No.2 has been hoisted in two areas in Cagayan and Isabela as Typhoon Goring (International name: Saola) continues to rapidly intensify over the sea east of Babuyan Islands, the weather bureau said Saturday.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said that as of 5 a.m., the center of Goring was estimated at 185 km. east-northeast of Aparri, Cagayan with maximum sustained winds of 140 kph near the center with gusts of up to 170 kph, and moving southwestward at 10 kph.
Goring is forecast to move generally southward to southeastward Saturday, turning eastward to northeastward on Sunday. It will then exit its looping path and move northwestward towards the sea east of Taiwan.
PAGASA said Goring could reach super typhoon category on Monday.
Signal No. 2 has been hoisted over the extreme northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan (Santa Ana, Gonzaga) and the extreme northeastern portion of Isabela (Divilacan, Palanan and Maconacon).
Signal No. 1 remains hoisted over Batanes, Babuyan Islands, the eastern portion of mainland Cagayan (Lal-Lo, Gattaran, Baggao, Peñablanca, Santa Teresita, Buguey, Camalaniugan, Aparri, Ballesteros and Allacapan), the eastern portion of Isabela (Dinapigue, San Mariano, San Pablo, Cabagan, Tumauini and Ilagan City), and the northern portion of Aurora (Dilasag and Casiguran).
PAGASA forecast stormy weather over the eastern portion of Cagayan, which may cause flooding or landslides due to heavy to intense rains.
Rains with gusty winds will be felt over Batanes, Isabela, Aurora, and the rest of Cagayan, it said.
Meanwhile, the trough of Goring will bring cloudy skies with scattered to widespread rains and thunderstorms over the Cordillera and Ilocos regions, and the rest of Cagayan Valley.
On the other hand, the southwest monsoon or “habagat” affecting Central and Southern Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao will bring cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms over Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Mimaropa and the rest of Central Luzon.
The rest of the country will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.
Northern Luzon and the eastern section of Central Luzon will experience strong winds and rough seas, while the rest of Luzon will experience moderate to strong winds with moderate to rough seas.
The rest of the country will have light to moderate winds with slight to moderate seas. (PNA)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. witnessed on Friday the record crowd at the FIBA Basketball World Cup (FBWC) opening at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
According to the international basketball federation (FIBA) data, a staggering 38,115 fans watched the Philippines-Dominican Republic match, beating the previous record of 32,616 spectators in an indoor arena during the 1994 World Championship (now the World Cup) finals in Toronto, Canada, where the USA beat Russia.
The event commenced with a series of performances by Filipino musicians, including Ben&Ben, The Dawn and Sarah Geronimo.
President Marcos arrived at the Philippine Arena just in time for tip-off.
The Philippines is represented by the Gilas Pilipinas team, led by Filipino-American Jordan Clarkson, who plays for the National Basketball Association’s (NBA) Utah Jazz.
The country is the lead host for World Cup, with Japan and Indonesia as its co-hosts.
The President briefly met with the players of the Philippines and took a photo with them at the end of the second quarter.
Four groups, or 16 teams, will play their games in the Philippines at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City and at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, while Japan and Indonesia will each host two groups.
The top eight teams will converge in the Philippines for the quarterfinals, semifinals and championship game on Sept. 5 to 10.
Among the government officials present during the opening were House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Senior Deputy Majority Leader Sandro Marcos and Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Hubert Dominic Guevara.
FIBA president Hamane Niang and NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki were also seated in Marcos’ row.
Gilas falters vs. Dominican Republic
However, despite the record-setting crowd mostly cheering fans for Gilas, the Philippine team faltered down the stretch and bowed to the Dominican Republic, 87-81.
The Dominican Republic kept their poise when the home side lost steam in the final six and a half minutes.
Gilas’ fate was sealed when Clarkson fouled out with 3:32 remaining.
“I really love the fight of the players. We competed hard. Unfortunately, the disqualification of Jordan was really a big blow to us,” coach Chot Reyes said after Gilas’ loss.
Karl-Anthony Towns made much of the damage to lead the Dominican Republic with 26 points and 10 rebounds.
Gilas’ efforts to contain Towns resulted in the Minnesota Timberwolves mainstay making 15-of-16 charity shots.
Victor Liz added 18 points, six rebounds, one assist and four steals.
Clarkson also got his rhythm from the free throw line, going 9-for-11 to make up for a sluggish 9-of-24 field goal shooting, including 1-for-6 from the three-point area. He finished with a game-high 28 points alongside seven rebounds, seven assists, two steals and one block.
However, he committed eight turnovers, including the offensive foul that kicked him out of the game.
Three-time World Cup veteran June Mar Fajardo went a perfect 5-for-5 from the field for 16 points with seven rebounds and one block.
Start of something special
Despite Gilas fans heading home sad, officials said they should remain happy for becoming part of FIBA World Cup history.
For FIBA World Cup 2023 chair Richard Carrion, the historic moment alone makes this year’s edition special.
“We all knew the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 was going to be special and within the first day. We already have evidence of this, having witnessed this historic moment. Everyone inside the Philippine Arena will never forget the amazing levels of love for both basketball and the Philippines national team that was cascading around the venue,” Carrion said.
“This is just the start of what will be the most memorable event in FIBA’s history and we’re all excited for what lies ahead – both on and off the court. Not only in the Philippines but also in Japan and Indonesia.”
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas chair emeritus Manny Pangilinan said the record-breaking event further showed that Filipinos are the best basketball fans in the world.
“We often say we’re the best fans in the world, but beating the old FIBA attendance record has proven what we have believed all along,” he said. (With a report from Ivan Stewart Saldajeno/PNA)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has assured Gilas Pilipinas of the Philippines’ full support at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup (FBWC).
Marcos gave the assurance as he lauded Gilas despite its 87-81 loss to the Dominican Republic in the FBWC opening at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
“A valiant effort by Gilas Pilipinas! Already you have proven that Filipino athleticism is world class,” Marcos said in a Facebook post on Friday night. “The nation stands in full support of your 2023 FIBA World Cup journey.”
Marcos also expressed elation over the large crowd of 38,115 that filled the Philippine Arena.
The high attendance helped the country achieve its goal of beating the previous record of 32,616 spectators in an indoor arena during the the 1994 World Championship finals in Toronto, Canada won by the United States.
“Congratulations as well to every attendee who helped set a new crowd record,” the President said.
Marcos also had the chance to meet with Gilas team members and take a photo with them during halftime.
Gilas will attempt to bounce back against Angola at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on Sunday and will cap its Group A assignments against Italy at the same venue on Tuesday.
Only the top two teams from the eight groups, or 16 of the 32, will advance to the next round. (PNA)
MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Saturday clarified that the additional documents that may be asked of outbound travelers are not intended to hinder the rights of Filipinos to travel.
At the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City, DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano said the new departure rules serve as added layers to curb trafficking in person (TIP).
Additional documents would be required if the immigration officer detects “red flags,” hinting that the traveler is a potential human trafficking victim or a perpetrator, Clavano said.
“Iyong ibang additional documents na posibleng hingin, doon lang po hihingin ng immigration officers kapag mayroon nakitang mga red flag – kung nakakaduda po iyong kuwento ng ating mga traveler, kung insufficient po iyong mga document or makikitang peke po iyong mga dokumento (As for the other documents, the only time the immigration officers will ask for them is if they see a red flag – if the response of the traveler is suspicious, if the documents are insufficient or if they detect that the document is fake),” he said.
Still, he advised first-time travelers and overseas workers to prepare the additional documents based on their categories in the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking’s (IACAT) 2023 revised departure guidelines for international-bound Filipino passengers.
“Kapag hindi satisfied iyong immigration officer sa primary inspection, doon ka lang iri-refer sa secondary inspection. Hindi pa po iyon investigation. For further questioning pa iyon para po makita talaga lahat ng dokumento (If the immigration officer is not satisfied during the primary inspection, that’s the time you will be referred for secondary inspection. It’s not an investigation but to allow the officer to see the other documents),” he said.
Clavano said 39,061 passengers were referred for secondary inspection from Jan. 1 to May 15, at least 13,764 of whom had their departures deferred.
He said IACAT did not change the process in the 2023 revised guidelines, particularly with the presentation of required basic travel documents.
Intensified fight vs. TIP
Clavano said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. himself has given specific instructions to maintain the country’s Tier 1 ranking in the State Department TIP report.
“That means he will support all the facets and all the programs that the IACAT has already put in place and he would like to enhance those programs,” he said.
He said the DOJ gave Marcos a situation report on the severity of human trafficking and he understood “very clearly the depth and how widespread this problem is.”
Aside from issuing the 2023 revised guidelines, the government is working with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations through coordination meetings and summits to strengthen cooperation against the transnational crime.
The Philippines was placed under Tier 1 ranking in the 2023 United States TIP report, a status the country has kept for eight consecutive years.
Tier 1, the highest in the three-tier ranking, indicates that a country “fully meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking.” (PNA)
MANILA – Philippine National Police chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. on Saturday assured the public that those who killed a 15-year-old boy from Rodriguez, Rizal, will get punished.
In a statement, Acorda said the PNP is now in custody of Corporal Arnulfo Sabillo and his alleged accomplice, Jeffrey Baguio, who have been tagged as prime suspects in the killing of John Frances Ompad on Aug. 20.
The suspects also injured Ompad’s 19-year-old brother, John Ace.
Acorda assured the public, particularly the family of the Ompads, that they would get justice.
“We are committed to ensuring that the bereaved family finds justice for their deceased loved one. Such actions are deeply regrettable and do not represent the values of the Philippine National Police. We will ensure a thorough and impartial investigation and appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible,” Acorda said.
Sabillo, 37, and Baguio, 27, have been charged with homicide and attempted homicide following their arrest the day after the shooting.
All agents of the Community Police Assistance Center 5, where Sabillo is assigned, have also been relieved from their posts to pave the way for an impartial investigation.
According to the report, John Ace was riding a motorcycle and on his way home when he was stopped by Sabillo, who was in civilian clothes, and the other suspect.
Scared that the suspects were criminals, the victim refused to stop, threw his helmet at the suspects and continued heading to his house.
In response, one of the suspects fired at John Ace’s direction, hitting John Frances in the abdomen after the latter emerged from their house.
The 15-year-old John Frances was declared dead while undergoing treatment at East Avenue Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City.
Acorda said the PNP remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice prevails in all circumstances. (PNA)
MANILA — The Commission on Audit (COA) has highlighted that the Department of Education, led by Vice President Sara Duterte, utilized ₱1.69 billion for its travel expenditures during 2022, a figure that more than doubled compared to the previous year.
As indicated in its annual report, COA stated that DepEd had allocated over ₱805 million for travel expenses in the year 2021.
Within the context of its travel disbursements for 2022, approximately ₱1.68 billion was consumed by domestic trips, while the remaining ₱8.69 million was disbursed for international travel.
Upon analyzing the COA report, it is evident that DepEd allocated a larger portion of its travel budget to local excursions for both years.
State auditors have also raised inquiries about DepEd’s limited investment in educational resources and equipment, particularly in the fields of science, mathematics, and technical-vocational livelihood subjects.
In previous instances, COA has similarly questioned the comparatively modest allocation by DepEd towards learning materials.
For the upcoming year, the Marcos administration has proposed a budget of ₱942.7 billion for DepEd in 2024, encompassing a confidential fund of ₱150 million. (ai/mnm)
Photo credits: FIBA
MANILA — Once again, the deep-rooted connection between basketball and life was vividly displayed by Filipinos.
An impressive crowd of 38,115 basketball enthusiasts congregated at the Philippine Arena on Friday, all eagerly anticipating the showdown between Gilas Pilipinas and the Dominican Republic, marking the opening game of the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
This remarkable attendance shattered the previous record of 32,616 attendees, which was set during the 1994 finals match between the United States and Russia at Toronto’s Skydome (now referred to as Rogers Centre) in Canada.
Enthusiasts from various corners of the Philippines and even beyond gathered at the expansive indoor arena with a seating capacity of 55,000, situated in Bocaue, Bulacan.
Their purpose was to witness the tournament’s commencement, marked by the opening match between Angola and Italy.
However, the main attraction was undeniably the game between Gilas Pilipinas and the Dominican Republic. The latter dealt the Nationals a hard-fought 87-81 decision in this captivating match that drew the largest crowd.
Beyond the exhilarating basketball action, the record-breaking audience was treated to live performances by iconic Original Pilipino Music (OPM) bands Ben&Ben and The Dawn, along with a captivating showcase by Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo.
Spanning until September 10, the tournament in the Philippines will continue with more matches hosted at the Araneta Coliseum and the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
On Sunday, Gilas PIlipinas faces Angola at the Araaneta Coliseum. (AI/MNM)
MANILA — Former Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. has officially been charged with murder, frustrated murder, and attempted murder in connection to the tragic killing of Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed these charges on Saturday, August 26th.
According to DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano, Arnolfo Teves Jr. had the charges of murder, frustrated murder, and attempted murder filed against him the previous Friday.
This was done before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Manila, specifically pertaining to the cases involving Degamo. Clavano made this announcement during a media forum, and a video of his statement was posted by ABS-CBN on their platform (formerly known as Twitter).
Teves is suspected to be the mastermind behind the assassination of Roel Degamo, which occurred on March 4th. The official indictment is dated August 18th.
Additionally, Arnolfo Teves Jr. is also facing murder charges for three other killings that took place in Negros Oriental back in 2019. Clavano verified that these charges had been filed in Bayawan.
The DOJ is actively pursuing the transfer of these cases to Manila. (ai/mnm)
Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN News
MANILA – Gilas Pilipinas faces a significant challenge in moving past their well-known fourth-quarter breakdown against the Dominican Republic on the opening day Friday night. Their primary focus now is shifting towards the crucial match against Angola in the FIBA World Cup.
Scheduled to play against Angola at the Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, the national team understands the need for adjustments, especially after reviewing their performance against the Dominicans.
Coach Chot Reyes expressed his thoughts on the matter, saying, “We committed 19 turnovers, and that was a significant factor,” following their 87-81 loss to the Dominicans on Friday. “We had a better shooting performance than the Dominicans, but they had more attempts than we did.”
Ranked 41st, the Angolan team, led by Atlanta Hawks’ Bruno Fernando, displayed resilience against Italy for the first three quarters until the Italians took control in the final period, finishing with an 81-67 score.
Reyes emphasized the importance of preparation for the Angolan defensive strategy. He mentioned, “Angola applies ball pressure similar to the Dominican Republic, so we definitely need to make adjustments in our offensive approach.”
Moreover, Reyes stressed the need to minimize turnovers and increase their aggression in offensive rebounds. He noted, “Our main issue (against the Dominicans) was the 19 turnovers and allowing 17 offensive rebounds. We must ensure that we can handle Angola’s defensive pressure effectively,” Reyes added. (AI/MNM)
MANILA — Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes admitted on Saturday that the absence of Jordan Clarkson in the crucial stretch towards the end of regulation played a significant role in the Nationals’ initial match debacle against the Dominican Republic.
The star player from the Utah Jazz was called for two quick fouls, with the second resulting in his ejection with slightly over three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter with Gilas trailing but a scant three points adrift after team DR bombed away with two successive triples.
Compounded by a five-second inbound violation after that, Gilas never recovered from there and deprived of their primary offensive force, Gilas struggled against the Dominicans led by Karl Anthony-Towns, ultimately falling 87-81.
Reyes mentioned that, given the circumstances, the foul on Clarkson could have been treated more leniently, but he chose not to contest it.
“Discussing Clarkson’s fouling out might lead to fines, but it’s evident to everyone present. With our understanding of basketball, we realize it could have been allowed to slide,” remarked the Gilas coach.
The national team was trailing by a mere 79-76 with over three minutes left before Clarkson was forced to leave the court.
“Regrettably, Jordan’s disqualification dealt us a major setback,” lamented Reyes.
Clarkson visibly expressed his frustration as he sat on the sidelines after his ejection. Nevertheless, he did engage with the media post-game.
“Certain calls didn’t go our way, but that’s part of the game,” he acknowledged.
Clarkson also conveyed his appreciation to the fans who rallied behind them at the Philippine Arena. He admitted feeling disappointed about falling short in the end.
“It’s quite disheartening that we couldn’t secure the victory. Some things didn’t go our way in the closing moments,” he admitted.
Clarkson tallied the game’s highest score with 28 points, albeit on a 9-of-24 shooting performance, before fouling out. He also contributed seven rebounds and seven assists, yet he was also accountable for eight of the Philippines’ 19 turnovers during the game. (ai/mnm)
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has chosen Major General Steve Crespillo to lead the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), the Departtment of National Defnse said Saturday.
According to Defense Spokesperson Arsenio Andolong, Crespillo presently holds the position of deputy commander of the Philippine Army, where he oversees critical policies and programs.
Crespillo’s prior role involved heading the 501st Infantry Brigade, leading successful campaigns against insurgents and armed conflicts in Apayao and Cagayan, as highlighted by Andolong.
The incoming Westmincom leader is a proud member of the “Bigkis Lahi” Class of 1990 from the Philippine Military Academy. (ai/mnm)
ZAMBOANGA CITY — Vice President and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Z. Duterte and Senator Francis ‘TOL’ N. Tolentino will grace the Mindanao regional games of the ongoing 2023 Philippine ROTC Games (PRG).
Tolentino, who is the honorary chairman of PRG, said the Vice President will be the event’s guest of honor and speaker during the opening of the tournament’s Mindanao leg, which will kick off from August 27 until September 2.
Tolentino stressed that the presence of the Vice President in the PRG is a big boost in raising awareness for the said tournament, considering that she’s the incumbent Education secretary and an active colonel in the military reserve force herself.
The upcoming Mindanao leg of the PRG comes a week after the successful hosting of the inaugural regional tournament in Iloilo City, which featured cadet athletes from various provinces in the Visayas in different sports such as track and field, basketball, kickboxing, boxing, arnis, and volleyball.
The senator added that the lessons learned in the tournament in Iloilo City will serve as a guide and benchmark for the organizers in the upcoming tournaments.
The Mindanao regional games will be followed by the Luzon leg, which will be held in Tagaytay City from September 17 until 23.
The cities of Manila and Pasig will host the National Capital Region leg from October 8 to 14 as well as the National Championships from October 22 to 27.
The PRG spearheaded by Tolentino aims to promote the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) by specifically encouraging the development of grassroots sports programs; training young athletes for international competitions; promoting physical education; and fostering self-discipline, teamwork and excellence.
It involves the ROTC units of the main service branches of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)–the Army, the Air Force, and the Navy. (ai/mnm)
MANILA — Due to repeated incidents of bullying and harassment by Chinese Coast Guard in the resupply mission of our Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) for the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, Sen. Idol Raffy Tulfo separately communicated over the phone with Ambassador of the Philippines to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez, Department of National Defense (DND) DND Sec. Gibo Teodoro and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner on Thursday (Aug. 24, 2023).
In his conversation with Romualdez, Tulfo reiterated his recommendation for the US Navy and the PCG to conduct a joint military operation in the resupply mission for the members of our military deployed in Ayungin Shoal.
Tulfo explained that the joint patrol mission is currently being done by other countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia, which are joined by the US navy and the Australian navy in patrolling.
Romualdez agreed with Tulfo’s recommendation, stressing that he saw no problem with it. Romualdez added that the military only needs to contact the DND.
It can be recalled that Tulfo first suggested to the DND, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and military the idea of a joint US Navy and PCG resupply mission last Aug. 16, during the public hearing of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Sen. Tulfo next contacted Teodoro who confirmed that the Philippine Navy and US Navy will have joint sail operations in the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
With regards to the resupply mission, Teodoro said he had no objection as long as it will be recommended by Brawner.
In talking to Brawner, Tulfo shared that the latter confirmed the statements from Romualdez and Teodoro. Brawner likewise said that the joint operation of the PCG and the US in the resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal is already underway.
In fact, Brawner said that they have already talked with Admiral John Aquilino, Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, for its implementation that will start in the middle of September or the first week of October.
Ultimately, Tulfo stated: “Tapos na ang maliligayang araw ng pambubully at pangha-harass ng Chinese Coast Guard sa Philippine Coast Guard sa West Philippine Sea!” (ai/mnm)
Gilas Pilipinas in the thick of things (Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN News)
BULACAN — In the inaugural match of the FIBA World Cup, Gilas Pilipinas failed to maintain their momentum in the first three quarters and allowed a hugely taller Dominican Republic squad to secure a hard-fought 87-81 victory before a record 38,000 spectators at the Philippine Arena here.
Gilas held a narrow three-point lead, 72-69, thanks to Jordan Clarkson’s successful free throws with just under six minutes left in the fourth quarter. However, this advantage quickly slipped away. The Dominican Republic responded with consecutive three-pointers, the last one coming from Karl-Anthony Towns, propelling them ahead at 75-72 with 5:58 on the clock.
Despite their efforts, Gilas managed to stay competitive, narrowing the gap to 74-75 and then 77-76 through Junmar Fajardo’s free throws and jumper. Unfortunately, this was the last significant surge from the national team. A critical five-second inbound violation occurred at the 3:50 mark, halting their momentum.
Jordan Clarkson led the scoring for Gilas Pilipinas with 28 points, while Junmar Fajardo contributed 16 points.
Throughout the first half, the tenacity of Team Gilas Pilipinas was evident. They prevented the Dominican Republic from extending their lead beyond six points, maintaining a tight game at 17-11. Earl Scottie Carreon Thompson’s three-pointer disrupted the opposition’s efforts to build a larger lead, bringing the Nationals back into contention at 17-14.
As the first half concluded, Gilas managed to level the score at 42-42 thanks to a slam dunk by Rhenz Abando. Abando, a 6-foot-2 professional basketball player, had previously played for Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in the Philippine Basketball Association before joining Anyang KGC in the Korean Basketball League. He began his college basketball journey with the UST Growling Tigers.
BOCAUE, Bulacan — Italy effectively defended against Angola, emerging with an 81-67 triumph in their FIBA World Cup opener at the Philippine Arena on Friday, August 25.
Despite being anticipated as the favored team to win, the Italians encountered difficulties in establishing a significant lead over the Angolans.
Italy even found themselves trailing by a margin of 2-9 during the initial quarter.
The Azurri made a resilient comeback and maintained control over the game, although Time Nacional managed to stay competitive as the match entered the fourth quarter with a score of 57-61.
In the final phase of the game, Italy finally found their momentum, limiting Angola to a mere 10 points while amassing 20 points themselves, ultimately securing victory in this Group A encounter.
Filipino band Ben and Ben performed at the Philippine Arena moments before Gilas Pilipinas face Dominican Republic.
Sarah Geronimo and The Dawn also made their performances in the opening ceremony of the World Cup.
As the Gilas Pilipinas-Dominican Republic match was starting to heat up, Filipino hoops fans were about to fill the capacity of the Philippine Arena that would break break the previous high of 32,616 fans set during the 1994 World Cup final between USA and Serbia in Toronto, Canada. (ai/mnm)
By Benjamin Cuaresma
August 25, 2023
MANILA — In an integral move of the five-month-long collaborative exercise involving the Philippines, the United States, and Australia, a pair of Japanese naval vessels has entered Manila on this Friday, August 25, 2023.
The vessels, namely JS Izumo (DDH-183) and JS Samidare (DD-106), have now securely moored at Manila South Harbor to participate in the Indo-Pacific Deployment (IPD) Exercise 2023, an initiative running from April 20 until September 17, 2023.
Affirming its unwavering dedication to cooperative regional efforts, the Japanese Embassy in Manila has highlighted the significance of these two naval assets. Their presence underscores Japan’s commitment to collaborative action in pursuit of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).
Notably, JS Izumo (DDH-183) stands as a light aircraft carrier, while JS Samidare takes its place as a distinguished Murasame-Class Destroyer. Both of these vessels proudly belong to the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF). (ai/mnm)
Enthusiastic supporters eagerly queued up at PITX in Paranaque, seizing the opportunity to secure a complimentary shuttle bus ride to the Philippine Arena in Bulacan. They are all set to witness the commencement of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 on Friday. Meanwhile, resourceful young entrepreneurs have seized the occasion to offer an array of souvenir items to fervent Gilas supporters at the bustling mega bus station in Parañaque City.
The highly anticipated 17-day global basketball event commences this Friday (25 August 2023), with the esteemed presence of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. anticipated at the inaugural ceremony in the expansive 55,000-seater PH Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
(BENJAMIN CUARESMA/AI/MNM)
On Friday, August 25, a gathering of commuters is observed along EDSA Extension in Pasay City. The reason for this congregation is the limited operations of LRT-1, which is currently running from Gil Puyat to FPJ (formerly Roosevelt) stations. This restriction is a result of the closure of Libertad to Baclaran stations due to mechanical issues, and this closure is expected to last until August 27.
For those traveling in the southbound direction, the LRT-1 is operating solely between FPJ station and Vito Cruz station, as stated by the light rail operator. (Photo by BENJAMIN CUARESMA/AI/MNM)
In remembrance of the late Maria Susana “Toots” Ople, Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will preside over the necrological services. Toots Ople passed away earlier this week after a prolonged battle with breast cancer.
This event is scheduled to be held on Monday, August 28, at the Kalayaan Hall in Malacañang, coinciding with the nation’s observance of National Heroes’ Day. Alongside Ople’s family, the President will solemnly accept the DMW chief’s remains for a private service.
Following the service at the palace, the remains will be transferred to the DMW offices for an additional public viewing.
In a prior interview, Marcos conveyed his sorrow at Ople’s passing, stating, “Secretary Toots held a special place in our hearts. Her profound empathy for the people she dedicated herself to, particularly the migrant workers, leaves a significant void.”
In the interim, DMW Undesecretary Bernard Olalia will assume the role of officer-in-charge until Marcos appoints a successor for Ople. (ai/mnm)
MANILA — The 2023 FIBA World Cup has commenced, marking a captivating new chapter in the history of Philippine sports. As Manila takes the spotlight as the host city, it welcomes the grandeur of the 2023 FIBA World Cup, an unparalleled spectacle in the world of basketball.
Kicking off with today’s opening ceremony and matchups, including the showdown between Team Gilas Pilipinas and the formidable Dominican Republic, the FIBA World Cup will unfold over the ensuing 17 days. During this time, 32 teams that have emerged triumphant from a rigorous elimination phase will test their mettle in the ultimate clash, determining the reigning champion for the next four years.
Securing the opportunity to host this year’s FIBA World Cup was a hard-fought battle for the Philippines. Consequently, every possible effort has been made to ensure that this event resonates as a resounding success. The significance is underscored by the realization that such a golden opportunity might not present itself for decades to come.
While the Philippines shares the hosting duties with Okinawa and Jakarta, the pivotal medal rounds will unfold on Philippine soil. This represents an extraordinary treat for the millions of Filipino basketball enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the rare spectacle of witnessing the finest talents of Philippine basketball pitted against other internationally acclaimed players.
The country has prepared more than enough for this moment with no other than the country’s No. 1 sports fan in President Marcos declaring suspension of classes and work in Metro Manila and Bulacan to make sure basketball affionados come and watch live the biggest spectacle that’s about to unfold late afternoon Thursday, 25 August 2023.
The chief executive is expected to grace the opening rites at the caverous 55,000-seater Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
Labeling Filipinos as fervent basketball aficionados is no hyperbole. In nearly every neighborhood, a basketball court is a common sight. These courts might feature uneven hoops and rusted backboards, situated on simple patches of leveled ground. However, they serve as the initial training grounds for young, barefoot boys—the birthplace of dreams.
The origins of basketball in the Philippines have an elusive history, largely due to limited historical records. Some accounts attribute the game’s introduction to American educators towards the late 1800s, coinciding with America’s influence over the country. The sport was still in its nascent stage in the United States, having been conceived by Canadian-American doctor James Naismith in 1861.
The act of dribbling a ball and aiming it at a hoop (initially a peach basket with its base removed) swiftly captured the local boys’ interest, birthing a national pastime.
For a period, the Philippines held an unchallenged dominion over basketball in Asia, earning this accolade during the 1913 Far Eastern Games.
With time, this appeal evolved into a national fixation. Over a century later, basketball has cast its enchantment over an entire nation. The country boasts professional and semi-professional leagues, with basketball reigning as the premier sport in the UAAP and the NCAA. For numerous barangays (villages), a fiesta celebration remains incomplete without a basketball tournament.
As per reports, the Philippines ranks as Nike’s third-largest basketball market, trailing only behind the United States and China.
Tim Cone, a highly decorated PBA coach, captured the essence of the Filipino people’s affinity for basketball in a recent interview. He stated, “We have three seasons: rainy season, dry season, and basketball season, and we play basketball through it all. That’s the passion.”
Predictably, the ultimate aspiration for many young players is to represent the national team. Earning a spot on the roster, alongside the luminaries of Philippine basketball, is a distinct honor.
Carlos Loyzaga stands among the legends who proudly donned the national colors. Standing at six-foot-one, Loyzaga led the national team to a commendable third-place finish in the 1954 World Basketball Championship held in Rio de Janeiro. This achievement remains the Philippines’ finest performance in the precursor to the modern FIBA World Cup.
Numerous court heroes have answered the call to serve the Philippine team. Lauro Mumar shared the court with Loyzaga during the 1954 championship. Narciso Bernardo and Ed Ocampo became fixtures in various national teams, alongside Alvin Patrimonio, Bogs Adornado, Manny Paner, Ramon Fernandez, and Allan Caidic.
Robert Jaworski emerged as a driving force behind several Philippine teams.
It’s fitting that FIBA has chosen the Manila World Cup as the stage to posthumously induct Loyzaga into its Hall of Fame, commemorating his legacy.
The pursuit of basketball glory endures to this day. The Philippines’ Gilas squad will confront some of the globe’s premier teams. Positioned as the underdog, Gilas takes pride in its “puso” — an unwavering fighting spirit.
For this reason, Gilas merits the admiration and wholehearted backing of the nation as it revels in national pride, standing at the heart of the basketball universe for the upcoming two weeks. (ai/mnm)