MANILA – Citing the need for more social workers in the country, a Laguna legislator is pushing for a government scholarship program that would encourage deserving students to become professional welfare workers.
In House Bill No. 6910 or An Act Establishing a Social Work Scholarship Program (SWSP) for Deserving Students, Laguna 2nd District Rep. Ruth Mariano-Hernandez said the measure would comprehensively address the lack of social workers across the country.
“There is a shortage in the number of social workers who are urgently needed to provide dedicated service to the disadvantaged sectors and communities across the country,” read the bill’s explanatory note, according to a news release on Sunday.
Social workers are the primary helping profession of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). whether in direct or indirect practice, to uplift the living conditions of the poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged.
There are only 6,796 registered social workers across the country as of July 31, 2022, according to the inventory of employees of the DSWD.
The Civil Service Commission, on the other hand, revealed that there are 9,541 social welfare positions in government bureaucracy, thus, there are 2,010 positions that have yet to be filled as of June 30, 2022.
The vacant positions include Social Welfare Officer, Social Worker, Social Welfare and Development Officer, Provincial/City/Municipal Social Welfare Officer; and for non-licensed Social Workers: Social Welfare Assistant, and Social Welfare Aide, in national government agencies and local government units.
Hernandez said her proposed SWSP program is a long-term effort that would ensure the stability of the DSWD programs and all current and future social welfare and development entities in the country.
The SWSP program, she added, opens up opportunities for students to engage in a fulfilling and purposeful profession, which would enable them to confront social and other socio-economic issues that would impact the lives of many Filipinos.
Under the measure, qualified students shall be provided with financial assistance to include the following: free tuition, miscellaneous, and other school fees; an allowance for prescribed books, supplies and equipment; clothing or uniform allowance; an allowance for dormitory or boarding house accommodation; transportation allowance; on the job training fees and expenses, Social Work licensure examination review fees; Social Work License fees; annual medical insurance; and other education-related subsistence or living allowances.
To qualify, student applicants should pass the entrance examination and comply with other related requirements for admission into a Social Work Degree program in a public or private higher education institution, as would be required by the Commission on Higher Education and DSWD.
Scholars in this proposed program “must be full-time students, shall not incur grades below 80 percent, take the board examination within one year after graduation, and render return of service in the social welfare positions in their home provinces,” Mariano-Hernandez said. (PNA)
MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday expressed grave concern over China Coast Guard’s (CCG) “excessive and unlawful actions” when it used water cannon against Filipino resupply vessels near Ayungin Shoal on Saturday.
“One of our chartered supply boats was blocked and water cannoned by a CCG vessel yesterday (Saturday), August 5, while en route to Ayungin Shoal for a routine troop rotation and resupply mission (RORE),” Col. Medel Aguilar, spokesperson of the AFP, said in a statement.
Aguilar was referring to the incident when CCG water cannoned Philippine vessels escorting boats delivering supplies to AFP personnel stationed on BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.
Aguilar said the CCG vessel took an unlawful action without thinking of the safety of those aboard.
The move, he said, was “in wanton disregard of the safety of the people on board and in violation of international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award.”
The Philippine Coast Guard also condemned the CCG’s “dangerous” actions.
“The Philippine Coast Guard strongly condemns the CCG’s dangerous maneuvers and illegal use of water cannons against the PCG vessels escorting the indigenous boats chartered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, said in a separate statement.
The PCG urged CCG to “restrain its forces, respect the sovereign rights of the Philippines in its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, refrain from hampering freedom of navigation, and take appropriate actions against those involved in the incident.”
“We ask that China Coast Guard, as an organization with a responsibility to observe state obligations under UNCLOS, COLREGs (Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea), and other relevant instruments of international maritime safety and security, to cease all illegal activities within the maritime zones of the Philippines,” Tarriela said.
Following the attack, the second supply was unable to complete its mission.
“Because of the CCG’s dangerous maneuvers, the second supply boat was not able to unload the supplies and could not complete the RORE mission,” Aguilar added.
He urged the CCG and the Central Military Commission, China’s highest national defense organization, “to act with prudence and be responsible in their actions to prevent miscalculations and accidents that will endanger people’s lives.”
Other countries against CCG action, too
Meanwhile, the United States said it stands “with our Philippine allies in the face of dangerous actions by the Coast Guard and maritime militia of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).”
“Firing water cannons and employing unsafe blocking maneuvers, PRC ships interfered with the Philippines’ lawful exercise of high seas freedom of navigation and jeopardized the safety of the Philippine vessels and crew. Such actions by the PRC are inconsistent with international law and are the latest in repeated threats to the status quo in the South China Sea, directly threatening regional peace and stability. By impeding necessary provisions from reaching the Filipino servicemembers stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, the PRC has also undertaken unwarranted interference in lawful Philippine mari0time operations,” read a statement posted by the US Department of State’s Office of the Spokesperson on Saturday.
“Australia is concerned by the latest actions directed against the Philippines, which are dangerous and destabilising. We reiterate our call for peace, stability, and respect for UNCLOS in the South China Sea – a vital international waterway,” tweeted Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Hae Kyong Yu on Sunday.
“Totally unacceptable any harassment & actions which infringe on lawful activities of the sea and endanger the navigational safety. We strongly support PH’s position; upholding maritime order based on UNCLOS & 2016 Arbitral Award,” read another tweet by the Ambassador of Japan in the Philippines account, also on Sunday. (PNA)
MANILA – The government will begin rolling out next month its Lifeline Rate program that will aid low-income households pay their electricity bills.
The program is a subsidized rate given to qualified low-income electricity customers who could not pay their electricity bills at full cost.
Beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) or those living below the poverty threshold set by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) can apply for the program.
Only one Distribution Utility (DU)/Electric Cooperative (EC) service per qualified household, however can be granted a lifeline rate.
Only one application for each household will be granted with the lifeline rate.
To apply for the program, beneficiaries should submit to the DU and EC their duly accomplished Lifeline Rate application forms, most recent electricity bills, and any valid government-issued identification cards with the signature and address of the applicant.
If the customer is living below the poverty threshold set by the PSA, the applicant must submit a certification from the local Social Welfare and Development Office (SWDO) issued within the last six months showing that the family income is below the poverty threshold applicable at the time of application.
The rollout of the program has been moved to September to allow qualified customers more time to register.
Data from the Energy Regulatory Commission showed that as of July 31 this year, there are only 12,829 household beneficiaries of 4Ps, out of the 4.2 million household members, who have applied for the Lifeline Rate program.
The Lifeline Rate Program validity is based on the annual certified list of 4Ps beneficiaries provided by DSWD.
A qualified customer is eligible to receive the Lifeline Rate if he or she remains on the updated list.
If delisted, the customer may opt to apply for a local SWDO certification if he or she is living below the poverty line and may reapply for Lifeline Rate.
For non-4Ps beneficiaries, Lifeline Rate will have a three-year validity from the date of issuance of certification by the local SWDO.
The power reduction rate varies depending on the prevailing rates of the DUs or ECs.
In the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) franchise area, lifeline end-users with zero to 20 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of monthly consumption will be granted a 100-percent discount on the generation charges, including system loss, transmission, and distribution components of their bill, except for the fixed metering charge of PHP5, which means more or less only PHP20 from their electric bills will be paid.
If they do not avail of the Lifeline Rate through Meralco, they will have to pay more or less PHP250.
Under the program, customers who use 21-50 kWh will only pay more or less PHP300 while those with a 51-70 kWh consumption bracket will shell out around PHP522.90.
Those consuming 71-100 kWh meanwhile will only pay PHP904.21 instead of the undiscounted rate of PHP1,099.10 if they do not apply for the Lifeline Rate. (PNA)
In the 2023 Palarong Pambansa standard chess competitions, Region 4A (Calabarzon) achieved an impressive sweep in the secondary division led by Mark Jay Bacojo who asserted his dominance in the boys’ category, and Franchesca Largo who commanded the girls’ category.
The thrilling finals showdown took place Friday afternoon at the Community Hall of the Marikina Hotel and Convention Center in Marikina City.
Bacojo, a FIDE Master, exhibited his prowess by securing a flawless victory in all seven rounds, amassing a total of seven points to clinch his third gold medal at the event. Meanwhile, Jan Clifford Labog from the Cagayan Valley Region secured the silver medal with a score of 6.0 points, while Rigil Kent Pahamtang, also representing Calabarzon, secured the bronze with 5.5 points.
Bacojo’s achievements did not stop there. He teamed up with Pahamtang to secure the gold medal for the team championship, earning Bacojo his fourth gold in total.
Earlier in the week, Bacojo had already claimed gold medals in both the individual and team blitz chess events, further cementing his exceptional skills.
On the girls’ side, Franchesca Largo emerged victorious in the seven-round standard chess event, finishing with a score of 5.5 points. She shared this score with April Joy Claros of the National Capital Region and Jamelin Ruth Lim of Region 6. Largo’s stellar performance allowed her to secure the gold medal after a tie-break, with Claros earning the silver and Lim attaining the bronze.
While the girls’ team gold went to the National Capital Region, Calabarzon secured the silver, and Region 12 took home the bronze.
In the elementary division, Phil Martin Casiguran from NCR claimed the gold in standard chess for boys, accumulating 6.0 points. Quarl Maverick Vera Cruz earned the silver with 5.5 points, and Jerald Mariano secured the bronze with the same score.
Iana Angela Sotaridona of Region 6 emerged triumphant in the elementary girls’ division with an impressive score of 6.5 points. Lila Alyssa Serina secured second place with 5.5 points, while Stephanie Jabagat took third place with 5.0 points.
In the team competitions, NCR secured the boys’ team gold, while Region 6 claimed the girls’ team gold, showcasing their collective talent and determination. (ai/mnm)
The brightest and most promising players from the country were primed to engage in fierce competition against the finest of Asia at the 7th Eastern Asia Youth Chess Championship in Hainan, China’s island province.
Armed with official invitations from Hainan’s chess organizers, these players had undergone weeks of rigorous training in preparation for the tournament. They had secured their tickets and meticulously organized their accommodations in Hainan. They even anticipated relishing the delectable and renowned Hainanese chicken dish.
All was in place for their scheduled departure to Hainan on August 3, except for a single obstacle: they lacked Chinese visas.
The event’s invitation explicitly stated that Hainan had extended visa-free entry to 59 countries, including the Philippines.
Indeed, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reinstated Hainan’s visa-free policy for travelers holding passports from these 59 exempted nations, starting March 15, 2023. This allowed these travelers a 30-day exploration of the province, encompassing its picturesque beaches reminiscent of Hawaii.
The organizing committee for the tournament had also made arrangements for the transportation of foreign participants from the Hainan airport to their designated hotels upon arrival.
However, the plane tickets purchased by the Philippine delegation necessitated a layover in Guangzhou, China. Regrettably, this layover required an entry visa.
As a result, the Filipino players, coaches, parents, and guardians who were bound for Hainan were denied their boarding passes on Thursday at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
(ai/mnm)
Former Pakistani PM Imran Khan (The New York Times photo courtesy)
LAHORE, Pakistan — Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, was apprehended at his residence in Lahore, the bustling eastern city, on Saturday. This action was carried out by law enforcement and authorities subsequent to a court in Islamabad, the capital, pronouncing him guilty of corruption and handing down a three-year imprisonment sentence.
As per reports from news agencies, the erstwhile international cricket icon has been entangled in a series of legal proceedings over allegations that he contends are politically motivated. These legal battles arose subsequent to his removal through a no-confidence vote the previous year. Khan was notably absent during the pronouncement of his sentence on Saturday.
“Pakistan television relayed the announcement by Judge Humayun Dilawar, confirming the establishment of involvement in corrupt practices,” stated the report.
Shortly after the court’s verdict, the police entered Khan’s residence in Lahore and took him into custody.
Chinese vessels once again engaged in confrontations with Philippine ships in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
In a recurring scenario, China dispatched its coast guard and militia fleets to the West Philippine Sea, precisely when Philippine vessels were carrying out a resupply operation on an island within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
The recent incident, which occurred on Friday, was highlighted by Ray Powell, a national security expert based in the United States. According to Powell, data from the automatic identification system (AIS) revealed that four China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels and 32 militia ships were mobilized from Mischief Reef, an island within the Philippines’ EEZ. The Chinese government had stationed these vessels there since May of the same year.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship, BRP Cabra, was spotted escorting smaller vessels on their way to conduct a resupply mission at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, a location where several Navy personnel were stationed. Powell noted that there was a disproportionate reaction to a single 44-meter PCG vessel escorting wooden boats.
Subsequently, another PCG vessel, the BRP Malabrigo, joined the BRP Cabra in its mission. As they approached Ayungin Shoal from the eastern direction, CCG 5402 and four militia vessels intercepted them, according to Powell, who is associated with Stanford University’s Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation. He also mentioned that two CCG vessels, 4203 and 5204, went dark on the AIS system but were likely in close proximity.
Powell further observed that China’s militia ship, Qiong Sansha Yu 00402, appeared to have maneuvered dangerously close to the BRP Malabrigo, which prompted the latter to execute an abrupt course reversal. Although the precise positions of the vessels were challenging to confirm via AIS, Powell suggested that the unexpected change in course might have been a reaction to an unsafe Chinese maneuver. (ai/mnm)
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) announced on Sunday that the country is set to experience fair weather over the next few days, with no storms detected on the horizon.
According to weather specialist Daniel James Villamil, the southwest monsoon is currently affecting only the western portion of Luzon. This weather system is bringing about cloudy conditions with scattered episodes of rain showers and thunderstorms in regions such as Ilocos, Batanes, and the Babuyan Islands.
“Expect generally fair weather across most areas of the country, except for isolated instances of showers and thunderstorms in the late afternoon or evening,” noted the Pagasa forecaster.
“We have not observed any signs of an impending storm in our recent monitoring,” he emphasized.
In the upcoming 24 hours, Pagasa predicts that Metro Manila and the rest of the nation will likely experience partly cloudy to overcast skies with occasional isolated rain showers and thunderstorms. (ai/mnm)
The Philippine team whoops it up after winning the Junior League Softball World Series on Saturday (Sunday morning Manila time) in Kirkland, Washington. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
In a remarkable victory, the Philippines achieved a 3-0 shutout against Milford, Connecticut, claiming the coveted title at the Junior League Softball World Series held in Kirkland, Washington on Saturday (Sunday morning, Manila time).
This marks the Philippines’ second global triumph in the tournament, with the previous victory occurring in 2003 when a team from Bacolod secured the championship.
Notably, a team from Norzagaray, Bulacan, made it to the finals in 2015 but narrowly missed the crown.
Represented by Bago City this time around, the Filipino contingent displayed their prowess by scoring a run during the second inning and further solidified their dominance by adding two more runs in the sixth, sealing their triumphant win.
Pitcher Erican Arnaiz emerged as a standout performer, striking out an impressive 15 batters and showcasing exceptional athleticism with a diving catch in the fifth inning, effectively thwarting Milford’s attempt to mount a comeback. (ai/mnm)
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) has highlighted the deepening influence of El Niño, evident through climatic observations and analyses revealing an abnormal rise in sea surface temperatures across the equatorial Pacific.
“El Niño is displaying a trend towards increased potency in the upcoming months,” remarked Esperanza Cayanan, Acting Head of Pagasa.
Cayanan indicated that the prevailing warmer-than-usual sea surface temperatures spanning the central and eastern equatorial Pacific denote the presence of a mild El Niño, which is anticipated to evolve into a more pronounced, possibly strong, manifestation by the latter part of 2023.
Camarines Norte is projected to encounter drought conditions by year-end, as forecasted by the agency.
El Niño heightens the probability of subpar rainfall levels, posing potential risks to water resources, agriculture, energy, public health, and safety.
“Nevertheless, an augmented southwest monsoon phase remains foreseeable, potentially resulting in above-average rainfall across the western regions of the nation,” Cayanan noted.
“In the broader climatic perspective, indications point to the cumulative effects of El Niño materializing in the final quarter of this year and the initial half of 2024, ushering in dry spells across extensive areas of the country,” she appended.
In accordance with Pagasa’s weather projection, a parched scenario is predicted to envelop Abra, Batanes, and Cagayan in Luzon, while Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Bohol, Cebu, and Siquijor in Visayas are expected to share a similar fate by the close of December.
In Mindanao, analogous conditions are likely to prevail over Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Davao de Oro, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Basilan, Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, and Tawi-tawi. (ai/mnm)
Healthcare workers on Friday took to the streets anew outside the Department of Health in Sta. Cruz, Manila as they pressed for the immediate disbursement of their allowances and a raise in their daily wages.
Healthcare workers are still awaiting the distribution of the Health Workers Emergency Allowance (HEA) and the ONE-Covid Allowance (OCA), commitments that were pledged by President Bong Bong Marcos in recognition of the efforts of frontline workers at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Following a brief dialogue with officers from the Manila Police District stationed at the site, the protesters peacefully dispersed. (Benjamin Cuaresma/AI/MNM)
Gilas Pilipinas (GMA News photo courtesy)
Gilas Pilipinas went down fighting against a physically imposing Senegal team, 63-72, Friday night at the Jiangman En Ping Sports gymnasium in the 2023 Heyuan WUS International Basketball Tournament,
The game witnessed a back-and-forth battle in the first half, with Gilas briefly taking a 45-40 lead early in the third quarter. However, Senegal responded with a dominant 10-0 run, regaining control and heading into the final quarter with a score of 56-53.
Gilas’ young big man, AJ Edu, initiated a promising start in the final period by scoring consecutive baskets, granting his team a momentary lead of 57-56. Unfortunately, this would be the last highlight for the Philippine team.
Senegal, the bronze medalist of the 2021 FIBA AfroBasket, utilized the clever playmaking skills of Brancou Badio and the formidable presence of their frontline to execute a decisive 14-4 surge, dampening the Philippines’ spirit.
Senegal continued its strong performance in the China pocket tournament, securing a second consecutive victory following a previous win against Iran B with a score of 85-75 on Wednesday.
Notably, Gilas also secured a triumph against Iran, defeating them 76-65 on Thursday.
As Gilas Pilipinas takes a break on Saturday, they are set to face Senegal once again the next day, aiming for a different outcome.
Consistent communication with Jordan Clarkson
In a separate development, Gilas coach Chot Reyes affirmed that he has been maintaining “constant communication” with Utah Jazz star Jordan Clarkson, who is poised to serve as the naturalized player for the Philippines.
Reyes revealed, “We have been in consistent communication, engaging in ongoing discussions.” He further disclosed this during his appearance on former PBA commissioner Noli Eala’s Power and Play sports program on Saturday.
The outspoken coach also shared that the NBA star, aged 31, has reassured him about his fitness level, stating that “he’s in good shape.” Reyes added, “Our conversations have encompassed offensive strategies, conceptual approaches, and team plans. Jordan has assured me that he’s actively working out and refining his skills.” (ai/mnm)
Former Philippine Basketball Association star and Gilas Pilipinas mainstay Jimmy Alapag was appointed as the player development coach for the NBA team Sacramento Kings.
Alapag confirmed this in an Instagram post on Saturday, calling it a dream come true.
“Proud to announce I’ll be joining Kings [head] coach Mike Brown and his staff as a player development coach for the upcoming NBA season,” he wrote.
He thanked the entire Kings organization for the promotion.
Alapag was an assistant coach for the team’s G-League affiliate, the Stockton Kings.
The triumphant Central Visayas team erupts in glee as they receive the gold in the secondary basketball event of this year’s Palarong Pambansa (Photo courtesy ABS-CBN)
Central Visayas has dethroned the National Capital Region as it claimed the coveted title in the Palarong Pambansa secondary boys basketball championship.
Jared Bahay emerged as the hero in the crucial moments, propelling Central Visayas past the former champions with a score of 77-73.
The thrilling showdown took place at the Marikina Sports Center on Saturday, August 5.
Bahay showcased his prowess with a remarkable off-the-bank long two-pointer, catapulting Central Visayas, proudly represented by Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu, to a 75-73 lead.
This pivotal shot occurred with a mere 38 seconds remaining on the clock.
In the ensuing possession, NCR, represented by Nazareth School of National University, encountered a stumble, leading to a turnover.
Capitalizing on this opportunity, Bahay drew a foul and, although he was unable to convert both of his free throws, Josh Go soared for a crucial putback, cementing the victory for the Magis Eagles in the closing moments with 2.4 seconds left on the clock.
(ai/mnm)
Kai Sotto (FIBA photo)
According to his own assessment, young Filipino center Kai Sotto is confident that he will be prepared to participate in Gilas Pilipinas’ matches against Montenegro and Mexico, just days prior to the commencement of the 2023 FIBA World Cup. These matches are intended as tune-up games for the national team.
Sotto shared that since his arrival in Manila two weeks ago, he has been diligently undergoing rehabilitation for his back injury, which he sustained during his recent game with the Orlando Magic in the NBA Summer League.
“I believe the rehabilitation process is progressing well. My back has shown significant improvement compared to my time in the U.S.,” Sotto disclosed during an interview with veteran sports analyst Quinito Henson and Dyan Castillejo on the YouTube Sports Channel, Playitright TV.
“I’m following a regimen of 12 rehabilitation sessions, and I’ve already completed six. Gradually, I’m engaging in my rehabilitation exercises and incorporating some weight training,” he added.
Encouraged by the positive strides in his back’s recovery, Sotto expressed his anticipation to return to the court and resume drills within the next few days.
Sotto mentioned that while he would have liked to join Gilas, currently competing in the 2023 Heyuan WUS International Basketball Tournament in Guangdong, China, he deemed it a pragmatic decision to skip the China pocket tournament. This choice aligns with his focus on ensuring a complete recovery for his back, guaranteeing his readiness for the upcoming World Cup.
“As there is still ample time before the first World Cup game, my priority is to utilize these days effectively to facilitate a thorough healing process for my back. This way, I’ll be in optimal condition when the World Cup arrives,” he elaborated.
In their initial two contests, the Philippines achieved a victory over Iran’s B Team, prevailing 76-65 on August 3, followed by a defeat to Senegal with a score of 72-63 on the evening of August 4. (ai/mnm)
La Salle team (SSL Photo Handout)
MANILA — De La Salle University prevailed in a thrilling five-set match over the University of Santo Tomas to secure a finals slot in the Shakey’ Super League (SSL) National Invitationals on Friday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Exhibiting their championship composure, the Lady Spikers demonstrated resilience by saving multiple match points during the fourth and fifth sets. This remarkable display led to a remarkable 22-25, 25-18, 14-25, 26-24, 26-24 triumph over the Golden Tigresses.
Their impressive performance paves the way for a best-of-3 finals series against fellow UAAP contender Adamson. In the opposite semifinal match, Adamson swiftly dismissed the Perpetual Help Lady Altas in three sets, 25-19, 25-21, 25-16.
During the fourth set, La Salle found themselves trailing 21-24. However, they rallied to score the final five points of the set, forcing a decisive rubber match. The fifth set witnessed an even more dramatic turn of events as La Salle thwarted seven match points, ultimately securing the victory after a demanding two hours and 23 minutes of play.
The closing moment came with a crosscourt kill by Alleiah Malaluan, following a single block from Thea Gagate. Malaluan’s outstanding contribution of 25 points, including 20 kills and five aces, spearheaded the reigning UAAP champions’ charge. Shevana Laput added 23 points to the scoreboard, while Gagate contributed 14 points for the Lady Spikers.
Reflecting on the match, La Salle’s assistant coach Noel Orcullo remarked, “As I’ve mentioned, the semifinals bring a different level of competition. I simply reminded them to bring out their A-game.” He noted that excitement might have led to some errors, particularly in their serves. He further reminded the team, “We just told them to show who they truly are.”
In a pivotal moment, when UST setter Cassie Carballo’s unexpected hit gave UST a 24-21 advantage, the Lady Spikers responded emphatically, securing five consecutive points, culminating in Malaluan’s decisive attack.
Despite their commendable efforts, the Golden Tigresses faced multiple challenges, with their closest call at 24-23 after a hit by Poyos. However, they ultimately surrendered the next three points, resulting in a bitter defeat.
Poyos delivered an explosive performance, amassing 29 points, while Jurado contributed 25 points in a valiant but unsuccessful endeavor for the Tigresses. They are now set to compete against the Lady Altas in a separate best-of-3 series for the bronze medal. (ai/mnm)
A post-game huddle of Gilas (DBP photo)
Gilas Pilipinas effortlessly secured a victory against Iran in a basketball face-off at the Heyuan WUS International Basketball Tournament held in China on Thursday.
Powered by the impressive performances of Jaime Malonzo and Dwight Ramos, the Philippine national team triumphed with a final score of 76-65 against the Iranian opponents.
Malonzo contributed 11 points along with six rebounds, while Ramos and Calvin Oftana each chipped in with 10 points. EJ Edu came close to achieving a double-double with nine points and nine rebounds, while Roger Pogoy and Rhenz Abando both contributed eight points. Amir Hosein Yazarlou led the Iranian squad with eight points.
The national team, which traveled to China for vital preparations ahead of the FIBA World Cup, is set to face Senegal in their upcoming match on Friday.
This victory holds significance for the national team, especially as they competed in Guangdong without the presence of Kai Sotto. Notably absent from the lineup were NBA star Jordan Clarkson, as well as naturalized players Justin Brownlee and Ange Kouame.
Despite the win, Chot Reyes, the coach of Gilas Pilipinas, emphasized the urgent need for both the players and coaching staff to tackle the recurring problem of “slow starts” in their games on the heels of the team’s debacle at the hands of a tall Iranian squad.
“This challenge must be promptly addressed if the Philippine team intends to hold its ground against formidable opponents in the upcoming 2023 FIBA World Cup,” Reyes said.
The Philippines is set to co-host the FIBA tournament with Japan and Indonesia starting August 25.
Characterized by tentative offensive plays and a slight lag in defensive reactions, Gilas Pilipinas found themselves trailing by five points midway through the opening quarter in their recent match against Iran’s B team which amassed 23 points against Gilas’ defense.
However, the Filipino team managed to regain their composure offensively and fortify their defense during the subsequent second and third quarters, allowing them to establish a lead.
In the final period, Iran staged a comeback, resulting in a final score of 65-76 that brought some respectability to the loss.
Reyes commented on the team’s performance, stating, “Our start was unfavorable, and the conclusion was disappointing. I observed that we displayed commendable gameplay during the second and third quarters, which was the middle phase of the match. Yet, we must enhance our game’s beginnings and closures.”
Despite noteworthy contributions from players like Jamie Malonzo, who topped the team with 11 points and six rebounds; Dwight Ramos and Calvin Oftana, each contributing 10 points; and young center AJ Edu, who delivered nine points and the same number of rebounds, Reyes couldn’t hide his sense of “disappointment.”
Reyes further elaborated, “The conclusion of the match left me greatly dissatisfied.” He pinpointed Iran’s 14-3 surge in the final quarter as the turning point, which reduced Gilas’ once formidable 22-point lead to a mere 11 points with three minutes remaining.
The candid Gilas coach emphasized that the team must swiftly extract lessons from this experience, as they cannot afford to replicate the same level of performance when they face Senegal, a larger and more athletic opponent, on Friday night at 8 p.m.
“Senegal possesses an impressive combination of size, strength, and height,” Reyes remarked. “Consequently, facing them will be an immense test for us. To prepare for the upcoming game, I chose to rest some of my players during the fourth quarter.”
(ai/mnm)
PAMPANGA — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has successfully constructed vital slope protection structures along riverbanks in this province, providing crucial safeguarding during periods of heavy rainfall.
DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, referencing updates from DPWH Regional Office 3 Director Roseller A. Tolentino, has identified the beneficiary municipalities of these newly completed slope protection structures as Porac, Guagua, and Lubao in Pampanga.
One significant achievement is the 310.31-lineal-meter slope protection completed along the Pasig-Potrero River in Barangay Manuali, Porac, Pampanga.
This project, funded by P96.2 million from the 2022 General Appropriations Act (GAA), is built upon a steel sheet pile foundation.
Secretary Bonoan emphasized that this slope protection system is interconnected with the previously finished 232.54-lineal-meter structure in Barangay Manuali.
Together, they effectively mitigate flooding and soil erosion in residential areas near the Pasig-Potrero River, which are often susceptible to rapid water flow resulting from heavy rainfall.
In Guagua, Pampanga, an extensive slope protection structure spanning both sides of the Betis River in Barangay Sta. Ines has been completed, spanning a total of 245.6 lineal meters. This project, amounting to P29.39 million, was funded through the 2023 GAA, ensuring enhanced protection for lives and properties.
Furthermore, the DPWH, in collaboration with the Pampanga Second District Engineering Office (DEO), has accomplished the finalization of two additional slope protection structures along Sapang Gumi in Barangay Sta. Catalina and Patangue Creek in Barangay San Antonio, Lubao, Pampanga.
The Sapang Gumi Slope Protection Project, extending over 263.86 linear meters and valued at P29.4 million, was successfully completed adjacent to an existing slope protection system in the area. This project was funded through the 2023 GAA.
Likewise, the Patangue Creek Slope Protection Project, encompassing the establishment of protective structures on both sides of the creek, has been realized with a budget of P19.59 million sourced from the 2023 national budget.
These completed projects stand as a testament to DPWH’s dedication to fortifying Pampanga’s waterways and shielding local communities from the adverse effects of inclement weather. (Benjamin Cuaresma/ai/mnm)
By Benjamin Cuaresma
PASAY CITY —
A comprehensive emergency response simulation for a simulated airline crash took place at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Friday (August 4, 2023).
The Manila International Airport Authority orchestrated the Crash Rescue Exercise (CREX), simulating a plane crash scenario within the General Aviation Area.
This mock drill engaged various MIAA service divisions, alongside nearby hospitals and fire stations, which participated as secondary responders.
Transportation Assistant Secretary Enrique Antonio Esquivel was present among the spectators during this simulated plane crash exercise.
Esquivel expressed confidence in the MIAA’s preparedness to effectively manage an actual plane crash rescue scenario, stating, “We are assured that in the event of a rescue incident, the MIAA is fully equipped to handle the real-life challenges of such a situation.” (ai/mnm)
MANILA – Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Richard “Dickie” Bachmann on Friday announced the appointment of Paulo Francisco Tatad as the new executive director of the commission effective Aug. 1.
Prior to his appointment, Tatad served as ABS-CBN head of talent acquisition and was also head of Globe Telecom’s strategic talent sourcing.
“Right now, I am just warming the chair so there’s a lot of reviewing and revisiting,” the 47-year-old son of former senator and press secretary Francisco “Kit” Tatad said during a press conference at the PSC Conference Room inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
“We would like to strengthen and look at further implantation of policies as chairman Bachmann said, work stronger with the National Sports Association (NSA) community,” he added.
Paulo Tatad took over the helm from Atty. Guillermo Iroy Jr., who handled the day-to-day affairs of the sports agency during the pandemic.
Iroy, a former member of the Asian Football Conderation (AFC) Disciplinary and Ethics Committee, is the PSC’s Deputy Executive Director Bureau on Coordinating Secretariat and Support Services when he was named acting executive director in 2020.
Tatad studied management economics at Ateneo de Manila University. He was captain of the men’s volleyball team in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Games and Batang Pinoy have new logos which were designed by the PSC in-house graphic team. (PNA)