A section of Taft Avenue near the LRT Quirino Station in Manila was submerged due to the recent onslaught of typhoon Egay, as shown in a photograph provided by Bloomberg.
Climate Change Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz Sr. has emphasized the necessity for empirical studies conducted by scientific experts regarding the environmental consequences of reclamation projects, especially in light of climate change’s adverse effects. These effects lead to extreme weather conditions, causing flash floods and the deterioration of marine resources.
Despite the call to halt reclamation projects in Manila Bay, Dela Cruz urges caution. Various senators have already advocated for their suspension, citing their detrimental impact on the environment. This impact not only disrupts the ecology and biodiversity of Manila Bay but also mars its renowned sunset view.
In a previous announcement, Ma. Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, the Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources, revealed the formation of an expert team tasked with evaluating ongoing reclamation projects and their environmental effects. Similarly, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has called for a review of all reclamation project contracts in Manila, noting that the Philippine Reclamation Authority’s (PRA) awarding of contracts seemed rushed and lacked proper public hearings.
Commissioner Dela Cruz echoes Senator JV Ejercito’s concerns about the potential disappearance of the iconic Manila Bay sunset.
Thus, Dela Cruz advocates for a thorough review of the environmental impact of proposed reclamation endeavors.
Fondly recalling his own childhood memories of enjoying the sea breeze and sunset along Roxas Boulevard, he suggests that authorities initiate comprehensive studies of Manila Bay’s reclamation projects.
If these projects persist, they could obstruct the sunset view and exacerbate flooding in Metro Manila and nearby regions.
Addressing other local government units (LGUs) considering reclamation projects within their jurisdictions, the climate official reiterates the importance of establishing local climate change action plans. These plans would contribute crucial insights for the proper execution of reclamation efforts.
Dela Cruz concludes that while reclamation might foster economic development and livelihood expansion in certain areas, studies indicate that there are environmental impacts that necessitate careful consideration before initiating such undertakings.
(ai/mnm)
Coach Chot Reyes (FIBA photo)
Chot Reyes attributes the victory of Gilas Pilipinas against Senegal to their steadfast and disciplined defensive strategy.
The team’s dedication to solid defense translated into offensive opportunities, as such Gilas Pilipinas sailed past Senegal, 75-63, in their recent outing in the 2023 Heyuan WUS International Basketball Tournament in Guangdong, China.
Reyes emphasized that their focus on enhancing defensive capabilities was evident throughout their preparations, even in the face of a halftime deficit.
Holding Senegal to only 39 points in the first half was a testament to their defensive prowess, enabling them to remain competitive.
Despite a size disadvantage, the Filipino team adhered to their defensive plans consistently, allowing them to stay in close proximity to Senegal.
Ray Parks’ impressive performance ignited a critical 18-3 surge in the final period, that keyed Gilas Pilipinas to its 75-63 victory.
Reyes acknowledged that their defensive tenacity played a pivotal role, especially during moments when their offense encountered challenges.
As the 60-year-old Gilas coach explained, their ability to maintain strong defensive play throughout the game enabled them to secure opportunities on the offensive end. This patience and resilience ultimately paid off, leading to crucial points in the fourth quarter that facilitated their success.
Looking ahead, Gilas Pilipinas aims to conclude their China trip on a positive note, as they prepare to face Iran B team once again on Monday night. (ai/mnm)
To show his commitment to alleviate the condition of the already “overtaxed” citizenry, Sen. Chiz Escudero has filed Senate Bill 2301 recently that seeks to exempt electricity sales from the 12% Value-Added Tax (VAT) as per the amended National Internal Revenue Code.
Under the Escudero measure, the following transactions shall also be exempt from VAT: sale of electricity by generation, transmission and distribution companies and electric cooperatives; and services of franchise grantees of electric utilities.
“This bill seeks to address the high electricity cost by exempting electricity sale from VAT. By granting relief, the government can lower the operating costs of industries and businesses, temper inflation and increase disposable household income, while generating revenue windfall through increased economic activity and consumption,” he said.
The Escudero bill has passed the first reading and is now up for discussion before the Committee on Ways and Means.
At the same time, Escudero maintained that improving the collection efficiency should be the prioritized over plans to raise taxes to boost government coffers to ease the plight of the Filipino people amid soaring prices of basic and prime commodities.
“Naniniwala ako mula’t-mula na dapat tingnan muna ng pamahalaan kung paano gagawing mas efficient ang tax collection nito kesa magpataw na naman tayo ng mga panibagong buwis,” Escudero told journalists at Kapihan sa Senado on August 3.
Escudero mentioned the planned adjustment in Motor Vehicle Road Users’ Tax (MVRUT), which he categorically said won’t receive his backing.
“Ang road users’ tax, gusto nila pang dagdagan. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the law’s implementation. Pwede ba na bago natin dagdagan, magbigay muna sila ng imbentaryo? Saan ba napunta ‘yan, magkano ang nakolekta, saan ginastos?” the veteran legislator raised.
“Hindi pa ba sila kontento na mataas na nga ang presyo ng mga bilihin, tataasan pa nila ang buwis? Hindi man makatulong na pababain ang presyo ng mga bilihin, baka naman pwede huwag na nating dagdagan ang pasanin muna ni Juan dela Cruz,” he added.
(ai/mnm)
Senator Risa Hontiveros on Monday said that the Chinese Communication Construction Co. (CCCC), a Chinese state-owned company operating in the Philippines, should be banned from the country.
The senator’s call comes a day after the Chinese Coast Guard blocked and water cannoned Philippine Coast Guard vessels en route to deliver supplies to Filipino troops in Ayungin Shoal.
“China is not a friend. She is not even a good neighbor. We will not allow ourselves to do nothing while she abuses and insults our countrymen in our own waters. Banning one of their state-owned companies is a way to tell China that we will not tolerate any abuse anymore,” Hontiveros said.
Former Finance Secretary Dominguez already terminated the loan application process for major CCCC-funded projects like the Davao-Digos Rail segment, the Calamba-Matnog long haul rail, and the Subic-Clark Rail.
Under the current administration, loan negotiations have resumed, but Hontiveros said that it is in the interest of the Philippines to decline any CCCC funding as well.
“There is no unique advantage to having Chinese banks and Chinese contractors being involved in these mega projects. One might even argue that the ADB or Japan, and maybe even the Philippine private sector, will be a better match for these projects,” the senator said.
“If the Tutuban-to-Clark rail is based on Japanese technology and ADB environmental and social safeguards, we might as well choose them for other connected projects. Why was that given to China? Why would it be given to a company with a history of vandalism?… to our natural resources in WPS?” Hontiveros added.
In 2020, Hontiveros also called on the government to drop projects with the CCCC, after it was revealed that it was among the dozens of companies that contributed to the dredging and construction of artificial militarized islands in the WPS.
“The CCCC is a predatory company. It works in conjunction with the Chinese maritime militia to deliberately destroy coral reefs in the WPS and poach endangered giant clams. It acts in the guise of a legitimate business, but it is only aiding the Chinese state in its creeping invasion. He is complicit in the theft of our territories in the WPS. He should just be kicked out of the country,” Hontiveros said.
“The Executive should also look into existing government projects with this company and stop any engagements as soon as possible. The President should simultaneously summon the Chinese Ambassador and take him to task about his country’s disgraceful behavior. China is a lot behind in the Philippines. We have been beaten but we must stand up and stand,” Hontiveros concluded. (AI/MNM)
The Philippine government took action on Monday (07 Aug 2023) by summoning Chinese Ambassador to Manila, Huang Xilian, to express strong concern over the water bombing incident involving Philippine vessels during their resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) formally communicated its protest, urging China to cease engaging in “illegal actions against Philippine vessels and to refrain from interfering in lawful Philippine activities.”
During a joint press briefing with members of the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea, DFA Spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza confirmed that a note verbale had been issued to the Chinese Ambassador during the meeting led by Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro earlier in the day.
“In terms of statistics, up until August 7, the Philippines has lodged a total of 445 diplomatic protests since 2020,” Daza stated. Moreover, she disclosed that for the year 2023, the DFA has already lodged 35 diplomatic protests, including the note verbale handed over during the summoning of the Chinese ambassador.
The Philippine government took action on Monday (07 Aug 2023) by summoning Chinese Ambassador to Manila, Huang Xilian, to express strong concern over the water bombing incident involving Philippine vessels during their resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) formally communicated its protest, urging China to cease engaging in “illegal actions against Philippine vessels and to refrain from interfering in lawful Philippine activities.”
During a joint press briefing with members of the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea, DFA Spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza confirmed that a note verbale had been issued to the Chinese Ambassador during the meeting led by Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro earlier in the day.
“In terms of statistics, up until August 7, the Philippines has lodged a total of 445 diplomatic protests since 2020,” Daza stated. Moreover, she disclosed that for the year 2023, the DFA has already lodged 35 diplomatic protests, including the note verbale handed over during the summoning of the Chinese ambassador.
Jordan Clarkson (EuroHoop photo courtesy)
Jordan Clarkson, the prominent Fil-Am Utah Jazz player, is en route to Manila, upholding his commitment to join the Philippine team in the upcoming FIBA World Cup of basketball.
A photograph of him at Los Angeles International Airport, taken by Filipino digital creator and photojournalist Jhay Otamias, circulated on social media on Monday.
Otamias shared a snapshot alongside the 31-year-old Clarkson, who is poised to embark on his flight to Manila.
This journey allows the former NBA Sixth Man of the Year more than two weeks to reacquaint himself with the national team before engaging in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, a co-hosted event by the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia.
The talented Filipino-American guard, known for his sharpshooting skills, is expected to land in Manila on Tuesday and participate in Gilas’ practice the following day.
As of the current moment on Monday (August 7), the national squad is competing in its final match at the 2023 Heyuan WUS International Basketball tournament against Iran. Upon conclusion, the team will depart Guangdong and return to Manila.
Given his NBA background and strong basketball acumen, Clarkson is undoubtedly set to be Gilas’ primary scoring option.
“The foremost anticipation is his basketball readiness. While he may not be at peak game shape just yet, he will have ample time to reach that point. For a player of his caliber, his basketball skills and game shape should align sufficiently,” remarked Reyes during his recent appearance on former PBA commissioner Noli Eala’s online sports show, Power and Play.
Selected as the 46th overall draft pick by the Washington Wizards in 2014, Clarkson is arriving after an impressive season with the Jazz, where he maintained an average of 20.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.4 assists across 61 regular season games.
In the fourth window of the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, Clarkson contributed to Gilas’ efforts, participating in a closely contested match against Lebanon led by Waek Arakji in Beirut. Subsequently, Gilas achieved a significant triumph over Saudi Arabia just days later at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay. (ai/mnm)
Sweden has dethroned the United States in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in a dramatic turn of events.
The US, reigning champions, were eliminated by Sweden in a penalty shootout, marking the end of their long-standing dominance.
This surprising upset occurred as Sweden advanced to the quarter-finals alongside the Netherlands.
In the quarter-finals, Sweden is set to face Japan, adding to the ongoing excitement and surprises of the tournament in Australia and New Zealand.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands secured their place in the last eight by defeating South Africa 2-0 and will now meet Spain.
The United States’ early exit from the tournament, following a goalless 120-minute game, marks their earliest departure in Women’s World Cup history.
This turn of events has shifted the status quo, with European champions England now being considered the frontrunners.
Reflecting on the loss, veteran striker Alex Morgan, a prominent figure on the US team, expressed her devastation, likening the experience to a nightmarish situation.
The US, a dominant force in women’s international football, had previously won the World Cup four times and was pursuing an unprecedented third consecutive title.
Despite their strong performance against Sweden, the US team struggled to overcome goalkeeper Zecira Musovic and faltered in the penalty shootout.
The Swedes ultimately clinched victory with a 5-4 score in sudden-death penalties. Even in the midst of the celebration, there was tension as VAR confirmed that Lina Hurtig’s kick had crossed the line, securing Sweden’s triumph.
The US team’s journey in this World Cup was marred by draws, including a 1-1 tie with the Netherlands and a goalless match against debutants Portugal in the group stage. Sweden’s upcoming clash with Japan promises to be an intense encounter, as the Japanese team has been a standout in the tournament.
As the tournament progresses, England is scheduled to face Nigeria, while co-hosts Australia are set to play against Denmark. The Netherlands, having secured their place in the quarter-finals, will go on to face Spain, who impressed with a 5-1 victory over Switzerland.
In a separate match, the Dutch’s journey was secured by Jill Roord’s early goal and a second score gifted by South Africa goalkeeper Kaylin Swart’s unfortunate error. The Dutch team’s strong performance ensured their advancement to the last eight, where they will meet Spain.
While South Africa’s coach, Desiree Ellis, expressed pride in her team’s efforts, she lamented missed opportunities that could have changed the outcome of the match. (Sourced online/ai/mnm)
Filipino-American athlete Eric Cray has clinched a coveted spot in the upcoming World Athletics Championships, joining forces with fellow hurdler Robyn Lauren Brown and pole vault sensation Ernest John ‘EJ’ Obiena.
Scheduled to take place from August 19 to 27, the World Championships will see Cray competing on the global stage after earning sufficient points to secure a position among the top 40 athletes in the world rankings, guaranteeing him a place in the prestigious event.
At 34 years old, Cray, a former Asian Champion, is poised to compete on August 20, marking his second major competition since his triumphant performance at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, last May, where he secured an impressive sixth consecutive gold medal in the men’s 400m hurdles.
Meanwhile, Brown secured her spot at the World Championships by dominating the women’s 400m hurdles at the Asian Athletics Championships held in Bangkok, Thailand, last July.
On a parallel note, Obiena has already earned an automatic entry to the World Championships due to his remarkable position as the world’s second-ranked pole vaulter. Notably, Obiena achieved a remarkable feat in the previous year’s edition of the World Championships in Eugene, Oregon, where he clinched a bronze medal, making history as the first Filipino athlete to grace the podium at this esteemed event.
Obiena’s recent performance at the Monaco Leg of the Wanda Diamond League showcased his prowess, as he secured a well-deserved silver medal, further solidifying his status as a formidable contender in the world of pole vaulting.
Coach Chot Reyes (Photo courtesy of Inquirer.net)
With less than three weeks remaining until Gilas Pilipinas’ debut game at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, national coach Chot Reyes is confronted with the formidable task of selecting the final 12 players from the current 20-man pool.
Undoubtedly, this assignment comes with its own set of complexities, given the dedication and sweat the players have poured into their preparation, coupled with the setbacks they’ve encountered due to injuries.
Reflecting on the 2007 FIBA Asia Cup in Tokushima, China, during his previous stint as head coach, Reyes recalled the process of trimming the team to the final 12 as an exceedingly arduous one.
“In the 2007 Tokushima tournament, our final decisions included leaving out James Yap, RDO (Ranidel de Ocampo), and Tony dela Cruz. Narrowing it down to the final 12 was an incredibly demanding task,” shared Reyes in a recent video interview with former PBA commissioner Noli Eala on his Power and Play sports program.
“The upcoming selection process (for the 2023 Gilas roster) will be equally challenging; it’s an integral aspect of the job,” he added.
However, knowing that finalizing the Gilas 12 is an unavoidable facet of his role, the 60-year-old national coach has set forth a specific set of criteria for the players who will make the cut.
“I’ve consistently emphasized that players must align with our desired style of play, complement each other’s strengths, and be in peak physical condition,” explained Reyes, whose team is presently competing in the three-nation 2023 Heyuan WUS International Basketball Tournament in Guangdong, China.
“These factors will carry as much weight as the players’ tenure with the group.”
Nevertheless, Reyes expressed his enthusiasm for the forthcoming World Cup challenge, acknowledging that he will undertake one of the most significant tests of his basketball career with a dedicated group of players.
“To be completely honest, I’m excited. However, I’m also apprehensive about finalizing the roster, as those decisions will undoubtedly be incredibly tough. Nonetheless, I’m invigorated and inspired by the team’s camaraderie,” shared Reyes, who just last May guided Gilas to recapture the gold medal in men’s basketball at the Southeast Asian Games, triumphing over a Cambodia team bolstered by several foreign players.
Highlighting the resilience of the 13-man Gilas squad competing in Heyuan, who endured a grueling six-hour bus journey to the playing venue before facing a tall and versatile Senegalese team, Reyes noted, “Even so, our Gilas players faced off against Senegal, a formidable team boasting several 7-footers. I observed the team’s resilience and determination firsthand.”
“When you have players of such caliber, it instills excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead,” he added.
At the time of this post, Gilas is set to face Senegal once more on Sunday evening before concluding their competition in China against Iran’s B Team on Monday night. (ai/mnm)
The Department of Energy confirmed Sunday that diesel prices could experience a surge of up to P4 per liter this week.
Rino Abad, Director of the DoE’s Oil Industry Management Bureau, acknowledged the potential increase, stating that it might even exceed the P4 mark.
Reports have indicated that various fuel companies anticipate a possible diesel hike of P4.10 per liter. Abad emphasized in a radio interview that the diesel price escalation estimate is feasible.
Meanwhile, the cost of kerosene might see an uptick ranging from P2.70 to P3 per liter, while gasoline could witness a more modest rise of P0.50 per liter.
Earlier, Rodela Romero, Assistant Director of the OIMB, referred to industry projections based on oil trading data from July 31 to August 3, 2023. According to these estimates, diesel prices may surge by P3.60 per liter, kerosene by P2.65, and gasoline by P0.15 to P0.35. (ai/mnm)
The United States has strongly condemned the actions of the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) in the South China Sea, expressing solidarity with Manila in the face of what it deems as “reckless behavior.” The CCG’s obstruction of a Philippine resupply mission to Ayungin, also known as Second Thomas Shoal, has raised concerns.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines has labeled the actions of the CCG as “excessive and provocative.” It reported that on August 5th, the CCG used water cannons and physically blocked a chartered supply vessel en route to Ayungin Shoal, where a routine troop rotation and resupply mission was scheduled.
Issuing a statement through the US Embassy in Manila, the US Department of State (USDS) urged China to uphold the 2016 arbitral ruling and emphasized the importance of respecting freedom of navigation, a fundamental right applicable to all nations.
Furthermore, the United States reiterated its commitment to the defense of the Philippines. It underlined that any armed aggression against Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces, including those belonging to the Philippine Coast Guard in the South China Sea, would trigger the mutual defense obligations outlined in Article 4 of the 1951 US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty.
In addressing the incident, the USDS criticized the actions of People’s Republic of China (PRC) ships for impeding the Philippines’ legitimate exercise of high seas freedom of navigation. This interference not only compromised the safety of Philippine vessels and crew but also jeopardized regional stability.
In summary, the United States has condemned the disruptive actions of the Chinese Coast Guard, expressed unwavering support for the Philippines, and underscored the importance of respecting international laws and norms in the South China Sea.
ANKARA – Spain and Japan have reached the quarterfinals of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Spain beat Switzerland 5-1 while Japan eliminated Norway 3-1 in the round of 16 matches on Saturday.
Spain reached its maiden quarterfinals, despite playing without the reigning Ballon d’Or winner Alexis Putellas, who is still recovering from a knee injury.
Japan, which conceded its first goal of the tournament, will take on the winner of Sunday’s duel between holder the US and Sweden.
The winner of the other round of 16 clash on Sunday between the Netherlands and South Africa will face Spain in the upcoming quarterfinal round.
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup will conclude with the final on Aug. 20. (Anadolu)
BACOLOD CITY – The Philippines, representing the Asia-Pacific Region, defeated the USA’s East Region, 3-0, to capture the 2023 Junior League Softball World Series title in Kirkland, Washington Saturday afternoon (Sunday morning in Manila).
The softbelles from Bago City, Negros Occidental gave the country its second championship in the girls’ 12-14 age bracket 20 years since a team from neighboring Bacolod City took home the crown.
“After countless hours of hard work and dedication, we have finally reached the pinnacle of success. It is a long-awaited victory that will be forever cherished by the entire country,” the Little League Philippines said in a statement.
Finishing only third last year, the Negrenses stamped their dominance this time, sweeping the first six matches to earn a ticket to the finals where they faced the team from Milford, Connecticut.
They scored a run in the second inning and pulled off two more in the sixth to clinch the title.
En route to the finals, they subdued District 9 Region (Washington) 19-0; Southeast Region (Florida) 4-1; Canada Region (Canada) 7-4; Central Region (Michigan) 10-0; West Region (Arizona) 4-0; and Southwest Region (Texas) 4-0.
Mayor Nicholas Yulo, who joined the team in Washington, lauded the players and the coaches “for a job well done and for the honor they brought to Bago City and the whole country”.
“Our world champions deserve no less than a hero’s welcome when they arrive. I have already instructed personnel to prepare for their homecoming. I am honored to have been a witness to this historic day. May your triumph inspire young Bagonhons to aim high and dream bigger,” he added.
The Philippine team is composed of Erica Arnaiz, Thereze Francine Fuentes, Ann Dyana Buenafe, Icelle Tanaman, Ashley Ortiz, Froline Manalo, Christine Jane Caracas, Daniela Bejos, Audrie Sarsona, Marie Antoinette Sicapore, Nice Lobrido and Casandra Sumatra, who are all students of Ramon Torres National High School.
They are mentored by coaches Rolando Fuentes, Leo Dayot, Sarah Caracas, Francis Fuentes, team manager Josie Sebunga and player advocate Yolly Sanchez. (PNA)
MANILA – Perpetual Help volleyball player Louie Ramirez is scheduled to leave for Japan next week to train with the Oita Miyoshi Weisse Adler, a club that competes in the top-level professional tournament V-League 1.
The 23-year-old Ramirez, named National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 98 and Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) after leading the Altas to a third consecutive title this year, received the invitation for a three-week training program last month.
“I was surprised because there are so many good players here in the Philippines and they chose me. I’m so happy to be invited,” the 6-foot-3 spiker told the Philippine News Agency on Sunday.
“I’m nervous because it will be my first trip abroad. I’m also excited to be training with the Japanese players” he added.
Marck Espejo (2018-2019) and Bryan Bagunas (2019-2022) both played for Oita Miyoshi Weisse Adler, which represented Japan in the 2014 Asian Men’s Club Volleyball Championship.
Espejo, the Finals MVP after Cignal won the 2023 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference title in March, has joined the Incheon Korean Air Jumbos.
The 6-foot-5 Bagunas, on the other hand, earned the MVP plum after helping the Win Streak Club win its first title at the Top Volleyball League in Chinese Taipei early this year.
“The invitation is a great opportunity for me to improve my knowledge in volleyball that’s why I am really looking forward to the training program,” said Ramirez, an incoming Hospitality Management senior.
The Dasol, Pangasinan native still has one more playing year with the Altas.
He thanked Perpetual Help chair Antonio Tamayo for the all-out support to the Altas, owners of 13 NCAA titles, and to coach Sammy Acaylar for honing his talent.
Acaylar, a former national player, saw the potential of Ramirez during the 2018 Palarong Pambansa in Vigan, Ilocos Sur while representing Malimpin National High School.
“Coach Sammy approached me, he asked if I wanted to play for Perpetual. I’m glad I made the right decision. Whatever I have achieved as a player, I will forever be grateful to coach Sammy,” said Ramirez, who also acknowledged coaching staff members Michael Cariño, Joemel Sagun, Rey Taneo and John Patrick Ramos.
Acaylar said Ramirez is humble player, coachable, loyal and always filled with gratitude.
“Many tried to recruit him even though he’s already with Perpetual, but he did not entertain these offers, especially his parents. The parents say they owe a debt of gratitude to the coach who trained and improved his skills. Louie is helpful and loving to his parents, that’s why the Lord blessed him,” Acaylar said in an interview.
Ramirez, the third among five siblings, still dreams of making the national team.
“Hopefully, I will be given a chance to play for the Philippine team,” said Ramirez, who joined a tryout two years ago but was not picked.
Ramirez may not be good enough for the national team at the moment but the Oita Miyoshi Weisse Adler Club must have seen something to notice him.
“I know that I will learn a lot from the training in Japan. I am determined to improve my skills and be a better player,” said Ramirez. (PNA)
ANKARA – A 5.5 magnitude earthquake hit eastern China on Sunday, bringing down dozens of houses and injuring at least 21 people, state-run media reported.
The quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), said daily South China Post, citing the China Earthquake Networks Center.
The tremor jolted Pingyuan County in the Shandong province at 2:33 a.m. Sunday, and was also felt in several areas in northern China, including Beijing and Tianjin, and the provinces of Henan and Hebei, according to local media reports.
Pingyuan is about 345 km (214 mi) south of Beijing.
So far, a total of 21 people have been injured and 126 buildings in the earthquake zone have collapsed, Beijing-based Xinhua News reported.
Several videos posted online showed panicked residents rushing outside and seeking refuge, with chandlers and furniture shaking in homes.
The central government has dispatched a team to assist with rescue efforts, and the railway authority has suspended trains that pass through or depart from the affected region.
Local authorities have launched an emergency response to organize rescue and assess possible risks. (Anadolu)
TOKYO – The shadow of nuclear war has re-emerged now that some countries are threatening to use nuclear weapons, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in his message commemorating the 78th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
“The drums of nuclear war are beating once again. Mistrust and division are on the rise. The nuclear shadow that loomed over the Cold War has re-emerged. And some countries are recklessly rattling the nuclear saber once again, threatening to use these tools of annihilation,” according to his address, read by Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Izumi Nakamitsu, at a memorial event at Hiroshima Peace Memorial on Sunday.
Guterres also urged all nations to completely reject the use of nuclear weapons. He said the elimination of nuclear weapons remains the UN’s highest disarmament priority.
“The only way to eliminate the nuclear risk is to eliminate nuclear weapons,” he said. “We will not rest until the nuclear shadow has been lifted once and for all.”
The US Armed Forces carried out the first-ever atomic bombing in history, striking the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki toward the tail end of World War II.
The bombings were justified as a way to accelerate the capitulation of the Empire of Japan. These attacks are the sole instance of nuclear weapons ever being used in a military conflict in the history of humanity.
According to various estimates, the explosion of the atomic bomb dropped over Hiroshima in one day killed between 70,000 and 100,000 people.
By the end of 1945, the number of victims had increased to 140,000 due to those who died in hospitals from wounds and radiation.
The list is being updated every time when a survivor dies. Currently, the total number of victims were pegged at 350,000. (TASS)
LEGAZPI CITY – Some 18,580 families are expected to benefit from a PHP24.9-million centralized health care facility that will be established in Libon, Albay by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Bicol under its Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) program.
In an interview on Sunday, Sheryl Lofamia, Kalahi-CIDSS area coordinator, said the two-story building will be built on a 216-square meter lot donated by the local government unit of Libon.
She said the construction began after Friday’s groundbreaking ceremony and is expected to be completed by November.
“It is a facility with 22 patient rooms, seven-bed capacity on the ground floor and 15-bed capacity on the second floor with complete amenities. Also with an isolation room, nurse station, staff house, doctors house and power house room,” Lofamia said.
Aside from being a health care facility, it can also be used as an evacuation center during calamities.
After completion, the project will be turned over to Libon.
The project was realized after the town’s 47 villages agreed to use their grant for one centralized facility.
“The PHP20 million is the grant from Kalahi-CIDSS for the 47 barangays, while the remaining amount is the counterpart of the local government unit of Libon,” Lofamia said.
She said volunteers from the different barangays facilitated the procurement activities for the project.
KALAHI-CIDSS is the community-driven flagship development project of the government which aims to empower communities through their direct participation in projects that address poverty and provide interventions on asset reforms, human development services and capacity building. (PNA)
BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Agriculture in the Cordillera Administrative Region (DA-CAR) on Sunday said it distributed 350 bags of rice seeds to farmers in six villages in Bangued, Abra, affected by the recent onslaught of Typhoon Egay.
Dr. Aida Pagtan, Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Service chief said at least 109 farmers from Barangay Cosili East received their rice seeds beginning Saturday.
Additional 250 bags of rice seeds were distributed Sunday to farmers in Barangays Macray, Dangdangla, Lubong, Cosili West, and Angad.
The farmer-beneficiaries in the six villages were among those initially identified when their farms were damaged by massive flooding from July 25 to 27.
Pagtan said the rice assistance program was immediately distributed to help farmers cope with the losses and allow them to plant while it is still cropping season.
At least 120 hectares of rice farmlands in Bangued were damaged by Egay while estimated damage to agriculture in the region has reached PHP474,341,869. (PNA)
LEGAZPI CITY – Seventeen Sorsogon athletes who bagged medals in the Palaraong Pambansa will receive cash incentives in recognition of their hard work, dedication and achievements in the Department of Education-organized sports event.
Salvador Mendoza, spokesperson of the Sorsogon provincial government, said gold medal winners will receive PHP100,000 each; silver medalists will get PHP75,000; and bronze medalists will be given PHP50,000 each.
“Our target for the distribution of the cash incentives for our athletes is within this week. We have 12 players for volleyball and five for individual games,” Mendoza said in a statement on Sunday.
“The substantial token of appreciation serves as an encouragement for the athletes to continue pursuing excellence in their respective sports disciplines,” he added.
The Palaro podium finishers from Sorsogon, all in the elementary level, are Rose Jane Barcelona, gold, long jump; Sofia Huete, gold, discus throw; Beatrize Maria Mabalay, gold, swimming, breaststroke; silver, swimming, 50-meter breaststroke; silver, swimming, 100 meters; Jake Ivan Arciaga, bronze, badminton singles; Jeanne Epino, bronze, javelin throw; and Casiguran Central School, bronze, volleyball.
Mendoza said it was the best performance of Sorsogon so far in the multi-event meet for grade school and secondary student-athletes.
“The dedication and hard work put in by these athletes, along with the support from their coaches and families, have undoubtedly contributed to this exceptional feature. The cash incentives bestowed upon these medalists not only honor their achievements but also demonstrate the commitment of the provincial government to foster a culture of sports excellence and athletic development,” read a statement from Sorsogon City.
The National Capital Region was crowned overall champion of the Palarong Pambansa for the 16th consecutive time, winning a total of 85 gold, 74 silver and 55 bronze medals as competition ended Saturday in Marikina City.
Bicol finished 10th out of 17 regions with a 13-15-22 gold-silver-bronze tally. (PNA)