Maine Mendoza and actor-politician Arjo Atayde (GMA Network photos courtesy)
In a heartwarming union, beloved Kapamilya actor and politician Arjo Atayde and renowned actress-host Maine Mendoza have officially become a married couple. The joyous occasion took place in the enchanting city of Baguio, as they exchanged their heartfelt vows at the Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges Chapel, culminating a love that has blossomed for over four years.
The esteemed couple was honored by an impressive array of principal sponsors, including ABS-CBN President and CEO Carlo Katigbak, as well as Dreamscape Entertainment boss Deo Endrinal. The esteemed trio of veteran hosts, Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon, stood as their wedding godfathers, adding a touch of nostalgia and camaraderie to the special day. Joining the entourage as principal sponsors were prominent politicians, House Speaker Martin Romualdez, and Sen. Migz Zubiri.
Arjo’s list of groomsmen featured actors Enchong Dee and Joseph Marco, who proudly stood by his side in support of the joyous celebration. Equally radiant were the bridesmaids, including the lovely Maja Salvador, beauty queen MJ Lastimosa, Ciara Sotto, Kristine Hermosa, and Sheena Halili, who added their charm and grace to the joyous festivities.
The delightful wedding reception took place at the elegant Baguio Country Club, where family, friends, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the couple’s newfound happiness.
Before the wedding, Arjo’s mother, Sylvia Sanchez, organized a delightful bridal shower for Maine, extending a warm and loving welcome to her new family. Filled with excitement and anticipation, Sylvia expressed her joy and affection for her soon-to-be daughter-in-law, eagerly awaiting the big day.
Arjo and Maine publicly declared their love for each other in March 2019, and over the years, their relationship blossomed, as they embraced each other’s families and formed strong bonds with their loved ones. Their engagement in July 2022 was met with excitement, although they chose to keep the details of their wedding a cherished secret.
In an interview with ABS-CBN News, Arjo candidly shared his devotion to Maine, affirming that she will always be his top priority. Balancing his career, responsibilities in Congress, and his love for Maine, he lovingly expressed that she holds a special place in his heart.
Looking forward to a bright future together, Arjo openly discussed his plans to have three children with Maine, a testament to their commitment and love for building a beautiful family.
As they embark on this new chapter as a married couple, fans and well-wishers alike can’t help but share in their happiness and wish them a lifetime of love and joy. Arjo Atayde and Maine Mendoza, a love story that captivates hearts, now begins a promising journey to forever. (ai/mnm)
Typhoon “Egay” wreaked havoc as it traversed the Philippines, causing significant damage to crops and infrastructure across 13 regions.
Though the storm has finally departed, the aftermath reveals a grim picture of destruction and loss.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) assessed the damage, reporting that agriculture suffered an estimated loss of P833,889,970.48, while livestock losses reached P23,762,020.
Additionally, infrastructure damage amounted to a staggering P1,191,137,926.36.
The impact on livelihoods was severe, affecting 76,093 farmers and fisherfolk and damaging 91,651.56 hectares of crops.
Moreover, Typhoon “Egay” took its toll on vital infrastructure, with 155 roads, bridges, schools, and government facilities bearing the brunt of its fury.
The typhoon’s wrath also resulted in human casualties, with the death toll currently at 14. Among these, six deaths have been confirmed, while eight are still undergoing validation. In addition, 13 people sustained injuries, and 20 individuals are reported missing at the time of this report.
As the affected regions strive to recover from the devastation, the nation stands in solidarity, offering support and assistance to those in need. (IA/MNM)
Sophia Catantan of the University of the East/Canlas Fencing poses for posterity with coach Rolando “Amat” Canlas Jr. after winning her fourth gold medal in the 1st Burlington Inter-Club International Fencing Challenge at the Alabang Town Center in Muntinlupa City. (Contributed photo)
MANILA — Sophia Catantan, representing the University of the East and Canlas Fencing, added to her remarkable achievements by clinching her fourth gold medal at the 1st Burlington Inter-Club International Fencing Challenge. This triumph marked her third gold in the individual category, specifically in the under-30 women’s foil event. The thrilling competition took place on Friday, July 27, at the Alabang Town Center in Muntinlupa City.
In the gold medal match, Catantan faced a tough challenge against the top-seeded Nami Noro from the University of the Philippines. The intensity of the contest reached its peak as Catantan emerged victorious with a narrow 15-14 score.
Prior to this remarkable win, Catantan dominated the under-14 and under-17 individual categories during the opening day of the five-day event. Her semifinal match against Marina Carbonell of UP/CF resulted in a 15-11 victory, while Noro advanced by defeating her UP teammate Mariel Flores 15-7 in the other semifinal. Noro secured the silver medal, and both Carbonell and Flores were awarded bronze medals in the tournament supported by Burlington Industries Phil. Inc., Pocari Sweat Phil., Alabang Town Center, and Milo.
Besides her outstanding individual achievements, Catantan showcased her talent as part of the Red Warriors team, leading them to a gold medal in the under-17 women’s foil team division, alongside Aubrey Fernandez, Willa Galvez, and Alyzabeth Gilbert.
The presence and guidance of her elder sister, Samantha Catantan, who is a gold medalist in the 2021 Vietnam Southeast Asian Games and a varsity player for the Penn State University Nitanny Lions in the US NCAA, served as a great inspiration for Sophia. The UAAP Season 85 Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Rookie of the Year in the junior’s division expressed her gratitude for the support and coaching received from her sister and also credited former national team coach and UE mentor Rolando “Amat” Canlas Jr. for helping her develop her skills.
In the under-30 men’s foil competition, national team member Shawn Felipe emerged as the champion after defeating UE’s Brynt Gale 15-9 in the finals. Meanwhile, Prince John Francis Felipe and Keonn Davies of CF/Multiple Intelligence International School secured bronze medals.
South Korea’s Geeta Mahesh Nambiar and Lee Yuseok showcased their skills and dominance by conquering the under-30 saber men’s and women’s divisions, respectively.
In the epee category, Andrea Matias claimed victory in the women’s division with a 15-7 triumph over De La Salle University’s Cyrra Vergara. On the men’s side, Timothy Gonzales of UP emerged as the winner, prevailing over CF’s Lorenzo Malvar with a score of 15-13. Bhea Raguin of UST and Kaya Ednilag of DLSU secured bronze medals in the women’s epee, while Ramil Encelan Jr. and Faber Cabrera earned bronze in the men’s epee division.
The final two days of the event will feature competitions in the boys and girls U8, U10, and U12 categories for all three fencing weapons: foil, epee, and saber.
(ai/mnm)
The 2023 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals commenced with a display of dominance as the UAAP champion, La Salle Lady Spikers and Enderun Colleges secured victories in straight sets in their respective opening matches at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
Despite missing UAAP Rookie-MVP Angel Canino and libero Justine Jazareno, the Lady Spikers proved their status as heavy title favorites by overpowering the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta Lady Altas with a convincing 25-11, 25-17, 25-12 victory in Pool A.
The match lasted a mere 81 minutes, and Thea Gagate, named UAAP’s Best Middle Blocker, led the way for La Salle with an impressive 12 points, combining eight hits and four blocks. Amie Provido also contributed 12 points, while Alleiah Malaluan and Shevana Laput added 11 and 10 points, respectively.
In another noteworthy match, Enderun Colleges from Luzon emerged victorious in Pool D by defeating Notre Dame of Dadiangas University (NDDU) from General Santos City with a scoreline of 27-25, 25-22, 25-14. Althea Virnyce Botor and Erika Jin Deloria played pivotal roles, scoring 17 and 16 points, respectively, leading Enderun to an equally impressive win that lasted for 83 minutes.
The opening ceremony of the National Invitationals featured all 12 teams from NCR, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Led by ACES president Dr. Ian Laurel, Shakey’s general manager Jorge Concepcion, and CHED official Ana Dulce Yango, a simple parade introduced the participating teams.
Fans can catch all the SSL matches live and on-demand across various platforms, including Plus Network Digital Media Services, CNN Philippines, Solar Sports Entertainment, and TAP Sports, who are serving as media partners for the event.
The historic National Invitationals received support from various individuals and organizations, including Boy Tuikinhoy of Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc., Alex Adeva of Northern Mindanao Volleyball Association of Coaches and Referees, and the San Juan Red Cross chapter. Additionally, all Shakey’s branches nationwide are airing the matches live, allowing fans all over the country to be a part of this exciting sporting event.
(ai/mnm)
GAMES TODAY
(EDEN PARK, Auckland)
7 p.m. – Norway vs Philippines (3 p.m. Manila time)
(FORSYTH BARR STADIUM, Dunedin)
7 p.m. – Switzerland vs. New Zealand ( 3 p.m. Manila time)
AUCKLAND – Facing their most menacing foes yet, the upset-conscious Filipinas are excited but unfazed as they tackle the fancied Grasshoppers Sunday for a coveted place in the next round at the close of thrilling Group A play in the FIFA Women’s World Cup at Eden Park here.
“Obviously we are looking forward to the game (against Norway). It’s a massive game, a massive occasion for us. Playing at a special sporting ground like Eden Park, a hallowed turf,” noted Australian Alen Stajcic at the pre-match conference Friday of playing at the fabled arena.
“From a team perspective, we are all very excited. And looking forward to the game tomorrow,” he added of the venue familiar to rugby and cricket fans worldwide, and where his charges are eager to break new ground further in the world’s greatest football tournament for women.
As before, the Australian tactician declined to get carried away by the moment and only had one thing on his mind when the two teams tangle at 7 p.m. (3 p.m. Manila time). The match will coincide simultaneously with an equally vital clash in Dunedin between host New Zealand and Switzerland, with the winner likewise sealing a spot in the round-of-16.
“We treat every game the same. I don’t care if we are playing Norway, I don’t care if we are playing America, Myanmar, or Hong Kong. Every single game is the same preparation. So it is not really relevant if we are playing life or death tomorrow, or if we need to win or need to draw,” he said.
“We go out to win every game.”
Ace defender Jessika Cowart, who joined Stajcic at the briefing, also appreciated the importance of the meeting against a side ranked No. 12 in the world, 34 rungs higher than the Filipinas, but was undaunted by their favored rivals.
“It’s football, there are 11 of us and 11 of them. There is a ball and we want to score and we want to keep them out of our net,” said Cowart of the bottom line.
“Of course, there are other factors like the world stage, the players we are playing against. That’s all added pressure, but it’s what you make it. How you perceive it. We are going out there as hard as we can, fight with pride, puso (heart),” she stressed. “We will play the game we love and we know and that’s all that matters.”
At the prospect of defending against Norwegian star forwards Ada Hegerberg and Caroline Hansen, she replied: “I am excited to play football, so whether it is up against Caroline Graham Hansen or someone from Woodside, California, I’m excited.
“And so it makes no difference to me whoever comes down from the field.”
Stajcic reiterated the significance of their surprise status of remaining in contention when virtually everyone else considered them out of the running by the time they played their third game.
“From a coaching perspective I am really proud of the whole group that we got to this point in this tournament,” he pointed out. “We are still alive. No one thought we would be alive and we were everyone’s underdogs.
“(But now) we are going up against a superpower of women’s football, historically, and knowing that we have a chance of progressing into the next round.”
Focused more on his team’s preparations, the Aussie coach declined to comment on Norway’s reported internal issues, saying: “I have a lot of respect for them as a country and what they have given to the world game.
“I am sure tomorrow when they come out here, they are going to fight for their country like they always have for the last 30 years. They are champions historically for their clubs and their country so we have a lot of respect for them. That is how we will be treating them.”
Besides the match, both coach and player looked forward to the Filipino fans who are expected to come to Eden Park in droves to provide them with a huge and much-needed inspirational boost.
“We can’t just wait to come out here tomorrow and perform for them one more time and show them the true spirit of our team and perform for them on a world stage, It is just wonderful to see and it is really what is special about our team and about the World Cup,” Stajcic said.
“It is amazing to have them. They bring that type of home game feeling every time we set out on the pitch and are really grateful for it,” Cowart echoed.
(ai/mnm)
Gilas Pilipinas’ preparations for the FIBA World Cup are once again hindered by injuries, this time affecting TNT’s seasoned center, John Paul “Poy” Erram, who is grappling with an arthritic knee.
According to Gilas’ physical therapist, Dexter Aseron, the 6-foot-8 Erram is under the care of Dr. Marc Castro, a respected Filipino orthopedic surgeon from the Makati Medical Center.
The persistent issue with Erram’s knee has been identified as arthritis, and it has been a cause of concern for the player.
Aseron revealed that they have been carefully managing Erram’s condition, especially given his history of knee surgeries, which he underwent during his UAAP days as part of the Ateneo Blue Eagles.
“He’s had a number of previous surgeries on both knees dating back to college,” shared Aseron, who graduated from the University of Santo Tomas College of Rehabilitation Sciences and currently serves as both Gilas and TNT’s strength and conditioning coach.
While they await Dr. Castro’s final recommendation, they have not ruled out Erram’s participation in the final 12 of the Gilas roster.
The 34-year-old player is presently focused on knee strengthening, and his availability for selection will depend on how he responds to the treatment in the coming days.
Despite this setback, the team remains hopeful that Erram will recover in time to contribute to Gilas Pilipinas’ endeavors.
(ai/mnm)
Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda stressed the significance of maintaining reciprocity and mutual respect in upholding the rights of the Philippines over the West Philippine Sea disputes as constituted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas (UNCLOS) seven years ago.
In January this year, Legarda pushed for creating a comprehensive legal structure conforming to the UNCLOS that reflects the essence of a rules-based system for maritime governance through filing Senate Bill 1649, or the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, which she said would be an essential tool that would help implement the arbitral ruling and incorporate the tribunal’s decision into legislation.
“Alongside protecting our own, it is equally important to ensure legal stability in maritime zones. We must unequivocally demarcate our maritime boundaries, and we must do this by law,” Legarda stated in her speech during the Forum Commemorating the Anniversary of the Arbitral Tribunal Ruling, noting the role of Congress in translating the zones provided by UNCLOS into specifically defined and bounded areas through domestic legislation.
She also specified that the government should clearly define the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which can help solidify sovereignty and provide a legal basis for the country to control maritime territories and resources effectively.
“We also want to establish, as a basic foundation, the maritime zones within which our blue economy will be managed, nurtured, and made to prosper,” Legarda said.
Filed as SB 1993, the Blue Economy Act, principally authored by Legarda, is among the priority legislations pronounced by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA).
“A strong maritime governance framework will not only protect our sovereignty, unlock economic opportunities, and protect marine ecosystems; it will also enhance climate resilience, promote sustainable fisheries, support maritime research and development, strengthen maritime security institutions, strengthen coastal resilience, and empower coastal communities,” Legarda conveyed.
“A solid governance framework and economic valuation will ensure that our coastal communities can secure tenure over their traditional fishing grounds and enable them to participate in decision-making processes, access financial resources, and benefit from the sustainable use of marine resources,” she added.
Moreover, the four-term senator urged Filipinos to reflect on the UNCLOS arbitral ruling since this validates the Philippines’ claim and allows the government to safeguard the country’s maritime assets and ecosystem.
“We need to make sure this victory is not merely symbolic but one that provides tangible benefits for our people. Let us seize this opportunity to circle the wagons, engage our legal system, our economy, and our citizenry to prevent further damage and incursions and usher in legal stability,” Legarda concluded. (AI/MNM)
MANILA – The Department of Energy (DOE) is focusing power restoration efforts in four areas in northern Luzon that were battered by Typhoon Egay.
In a virtual media briefing Saturday, DOE Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella said these are the franchise areas of Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc., Ilocos Sur Electric Cooperative, Inc., Cagayan II Electric Cooperative, Inc., and Abra Electric Cooperative, Inc.
Fuentebella said power restoration in these franchise areas is still below 50 percent.
“Doon po nakatutuok at doon din papunta ang ating mga contingence sa Task Force Kapatid (Our Task Force Kapatid contingence is heading and focused in these areas),” he said.
Task Force Kapatid, or the Task Force on Energy Resilience, is led by the DOE, wherein distribution utilities provide their resources to electric cooperatives (ECs) affected by natural calamities to ramp up power restoration activities.
The National Electrification Administration (NEA) reported that 64 percent of nearly 1.6 million consumers in the franchise areas of the affected ECs have been fully energized as of Saturday.
About 577,530 consumers are still waiting for electricity to be restored.
Fuentebella noted that Egay has affected nine regions covering 38 provinces.
“Fifty out of 62 electric cooperatives are in normal operations,” he added.
He said only three power plants with a total capacity of 88 megawatts remain offline – the 81-MW Caparispisan Wind Power, and two hydroelectric power plants in Benguet with a combined capacity of 7 MW.
In terms of transmission services, the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines has fully restored all affected transmission lines as of Friday.
Meanwhile, the Manila Electric Company said it has fully restored the electricity in its franchise areas. (PNA)
MANILA — Standard Chartered on Friday maintained its 5.3 percent economic growth outlook for the Philippines this year.
In a virtual briefing, Standard Chartered economist for Asia Jonathan Koh said growth is likely to slow over the next few quarters as the transmission of earlier monetary policy tightening continues.
However, Koh said the 5.3 percent projected growth is still “one of the strongest in the region.”
“I think as monetary policy transmission continues through the system, growth in the second half of the year on a sequential basis is probably also going to remain soft,” he said.
The Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) raised interest rates by a total of 425 basis points since last year to temper the rising inflation.
Aside from the monetary policy tightening, Koh said consumption is expected to moderate in the coming months even as it remains a key driver of growth.
“So going forward, I do think that the pace of consumption growth is probably going to remain a little bit more on the softer side even though it’s still supportive of overall growth,” he said.
Koh said the investment outlook for the second half of the year also remains challenging due to high interest rates.
Koh, however, said the BSP will reduce rates by 25 basis points in the fourth quarter of the year amid slowing growth momentum and easing inflation.
He said the BSP will likely further cut rates by another 50 basis points each in the first, second and third quarter of 2024, bringing the real policy rate to settle between 1.5 to 2.0 percent.
Inflation, meanwhile, is projected to fall below 4 percent in the fourth quarter of the year and average to 5.6 percent this year.
For next year, Koh said they are expecting the Philippine economy to grow by 6.0 percent and further accelerate to 6.5 percent in 2025. (PNA)
MANILA – The local bourse’s main index ended the week on the negative territory while the peso also slipped on Friday.
The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) declined by 0.79 percent, or 52.66 points, to 6,625.26 points.
All Shares followed with a decline of 0.57 percent, or 20.08 points, to 3,526.92 points.
Majority of the sectoral gauges also slipped, led by Industrial which contracted by 1.30 percent.
It was followed by Financials, 0.97 percent; Services, 0.84 percent; Holding Firms, 0.45 percent; and Property, 0.30 percent.
Only the Mining and Oil index gained during the day, increasing by 0.22 percent.
Total volume reached 635.54 million shares amounting to PHP2.91 billion.
Decliners led advancers at 103 to 69, while 54 shares were unchanged.
“Philippine equities tumbled on a mixed batch of US earnings reports, adding some precaution that the US economy is not out of the woods yet,” Regina Capital Development Corporation head of sales Luis Limlingan said.
Limlingan said markets in general edged lower as the Federal Reserve resumed hiking interest rates.
“The mixed corporate earnings results added more pressure on local equities as well. Oil prices settled higher Thursday, with Brent crude topping $84 a barrel for the first time since April, supported by supply tightness following OPEC+ production cuts and renewed bullishness on the outlook for Chinese demand and global growth,” he said.
Brent crude increased USD1.32 or 1.6 percent to USD84.35 per barrel while WTI crude grew 1.7 percent to USD80.09.
Meanwhile, the peso closed at 54.91 to a dollar from 54.56 the previous day.
It opened the day at 54.75 and traded between 54.75 and 54.92.
The average level for the day stood at 54.84.
Volume increased to USD1.09 billion from Thursday’s PHP914.1 million.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort traced the peso’s performance to the increase in global crude oil prices and the wider budget deficit data released by the Treasury on Friday.
For Monday, Ricafort said the peso exchange rate could range at 54.80 to 55.00 levels.
For next week, the peso exchange rate could range at 54.60 to 55.10 levels. (PNA)
MANILA – The “Larong Pinoy” was officially opened at the 2023 Palarong Pambansa in Marikina City on Friday to promote and preserve the rich Filipino culture through traditional games.
“It is very important to preserve our culture and sports,” Marikina City Mayor Marcelino Teodoro said in a statement after leading the opening of the “Larong Pinoy” exhibition games at the Marikina Sports Center Gymnasium with Department of Education (DepEd) Assistant Secretary for Operations Francis Cesar Bringas.
“A community’s identity and heritage are defined by its culture. Its preservation helps future generations in understanding their ancestors’ roots, customs, and values, providing a sense of belonging and continuity,” he said. “Culture and sports preservation benefit the society, build communities, and contribute to a more peaceful and united country.”
“Larong Pinoy” refers to a collection of traditional Filipino activities and sports that have been passed down through generations in the country.
These games have historical roots in the country’s pre-colonial history and show the Filipino people’s creativity, resourcefulness and communal spirit.
All the 17 regions participating in the national games have selected 10 members from their delegation to take part in the “Palarong Pinoy,” as directed under DepEd Memorandum 35, s. 2023.
“Larong Pinoy” was first introduced at the 62nd Palarong Pambansa in 2019 held in Davao, where DepEd officials and staff took part in traditional games, such as Kadang-kadang, Patintero, Hilahang-lubid and Karera ng Sako.
The “Larong Pinoy” that were highlighted as exhibition games were the Kadang-kadang, Patintero and Tumbang Preso.
Also included in the exhibition sports are cheer dance, weightlifting, and obstacle course.
On the other hand, separate activities, such as Para-Athletics, Para-Swimming, Bocce, and Goalball, will be held in the coming days for learner-athletes with Intellectual Disability, visually impaired, and orthopedically handicapped/amputee under Special Education classes. (PNA)
MANILA – At least eight more tropical cyclones are likely to hit the country this year, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on Saturday.
“We expect about eight to 11 more typhoons to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this year,” PAGASA deputy administrator for Administration and Engineering Services, Dr. Nathaniel Servando, said during a weekly media forum in Quezon City.
The strongest typhoons are expected in September and October, Servando said.
On the positive side, he said, the country could have sufficient supply of water “as we are expecting more rain.”
He said at least two storms may bring rains over Bulacan’s Angat Dam, the main source of Metro Manila’s potable water.
Meanwhile, Servando said Typhoon Falcon, which is already inside PAR, is unlikely to make landfall.
“It is expected to leave PAR in two to three days,” he said.
The direction of Falcon, last tracked 1,315 km cast of Central Luzon as of 11 a.m., would be far from the areas that were affected by Egay.
“There will be rains but it is not caused by Falcon but habagat (southwest monsoon),” he added.
Edgar Posadas, spokesperson of the Office of the Civil Defense, also reported that the initial estimated damage of Egay has exceeded PHP1 billion.
“As of today, the damage to agricultural products is at PHP832 million and PHP1.1 billion damage to infrastructure,” he said. “We expect the figures to increase in the next few days.” (PNA)
MANILA – There has been a marked weakening of slow lava effusion from the summit crater of Mayon Volcano in the past 24 hours but it remains under Alert Level 3 at a “relatively high level of unrest.”
“Mayon Volcano is on Alert Level 3 since June 8 and its effusive eruption is still ongoing. So when we say effusive eruption, this is the release of magma on the slope of the volcano,” Dr. Teresito Bacolcol, officer in charge of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology Geology (Phivolcs) – Geophysics Research and Development Division, said at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City.
Level 3 also means nobody is allowed within the 6-km. permanent danger zone, he added.
As of Friday, he said, the volcano has released about 19 million cubic meters of volcanic materials.
“For us to have an idea of how big those 19 million cubic meters of volcanic materials are, a dump truck’s capacity would be around 14 cubic meters. So, these 19 million cubic meters will be equivalent to around 1.4 million dump trucks,” he said.
Bacolcol said at best, they were hoping that no explosive eruption would happen.
“Effusive eruption is the slow release of magma on the edifice. So, we are constantly monitoring the parameters and hopefully there will be no explosive eruption,” he said.
“The downside is, it would probably take (a) few more weeks whereas. If it’s an explosive eruption like what happened in 2000, it only took two weeks. But for an effusive eruption like what happened in 2014, it took three months.”
Still, a volcanic eruption has benefits.
“Volcanic ash is fertile. That’s why it’s hard for people to leave areas that have active volcanoes because the land around volcanoes is fertile,” he said.
In its 8 a.m. bulletin, Phivolcs said 40 volcanic earthquakes, including 39 low-frequency volcanic earthquakes, and 45 rockfall events were recorded by the Mayon Volcano Network.
Evacuation from the permanent danger zone is recommended due to lava flows, rockfalls and other volcanic hazards.
“The parameters are fluctuating and it’s really difficult to say if this probably would lead to an explosive eruption. We’re assessing the situation on a day-to-day basis,” Bacolcol said. (PNA)
Coach Alen Stajcic shares his thoughts after the Filipinas’ workout at Olympic Park in Auckland.
AUCKLAND – Australian coach Alen Stajcic is wary of “wounded” Norway as the Filipinas battle the European powerhouse on Sunday for a spot in the knockout round at the climax of Group A action in the FIFA Women’s World Cup at Eden Park here.
“I’m wary of the wounded animal. They (Norway) have taken a hit to their pride and I expect them to come out fighting. They are (former World Cup) champions for a reason. They have a fightback in them so we have to be ready for that,” Stajcic said Friday after the team’s workout at Olympic Park.
Earlier tipped as group favorites, the celebrated Grasshoppers are in last place with just a point following their 0-1 setback to the Ferns here last week and a scoreless standoff with Switzerland in Hamilton last Tuesday.
In contrast, the surprising Filipinas are running third with three points following their 1-0 upset of the Ferns in Wellington, acutely aware that a second straight win guarantees them a place in the knockout round-of-16.
The hosts, who also have three points as Stajcic’s charges but are in second place on goal difference, battle the pacesetting Swiss in Dunedin simultaneously, with the winner likewise advancing outright into the knockout stage.
The Aussie mentor remained respectful of their formidable foes, saying: “They are former World Cup winners (in 1995), they are former Olympic gold medalists, the pedigree within the country and women’s football is enormous.
“You have a Ballon d’Or winner in Ada Hegerberg, they have players playing at the highest level at Barcelona, who are probably their best players. They may be ranked No. 12 now but they have been in the top 10 for the past 20 to 30 years. They are fantastic.”
He noted that Hegerberg, who pulled out of the game against Switzerland due to a groin injury, could be back in harness “because she’s a champion and she has earned the right to be a champion. You don’t get to be a Player of the Year Award unless you are an amazing footballer.
“We have an immense amount of respect for her and the team. It’s going to be a big challenge.”
He wouldn’t sell his own players short, though, underscoring the fact that “it is unbelievable to think that we are in this position. Any neutral person around the world would have not put any money on us to be in this position.
“To be ahead of Norway in the league table after two matches is almost unheard of from any neutral pundit. We have earned the right to be in that position so that gives me a lot of belief and confidence.
“They (the Filipinas) have earned the right to feel like that, in this position to feel confident and that they can put points on the board.”
The Philippines was an overwhelming group underdog until the stunning win over New Zealand, throwing the race for the two round-of-16 slots wide open until the last day of group play.
Stajic was generally satisfied with the squad’s workout, noting that “the team is in good spirits. Everyone is focused and ready for the challenge that lies ahead.”
Together for the last 18 months, “one of the strengths of this team is that we are able to refocus so quickly. And there is a real sense of maturity around this team and around that process that is one of the strengths of this team,” according to the coach.
Given how the group has played out, Stajcic observed that all four squads would be feeling pressure entering Sunday’s matches.
‘Yes there’s pressure but if you don’t like pressure then you should be playing in elite sport. It doesn’t always happen in the World Cup, but this is one of those groups when all four teams can go through the next round,” he explained.
“All four teams need a result. Switzerland is on top but they can also lose their spot in the next round and Norway is in the bottom. If any team wins they are through. It is a really unique group that shows that it is tight and tough,” he stressed.
“Since the pressure will be on everyone, we will have to be ready for battle. It will be equal.”
(ai/mnm)
Games Saturday
(City of Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex)
3 p.m. – Thailand vs Vietnam
6 p.m. – Philippines vs Indonesia
THE Philippines stood its ground but still fell to Thailand in five sets while Leg 1 champion Indonesia made short work of Vietnam in the opener of the Southeast Asia Volleyball League on Friday night at the City of Santa Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex in Laguna.
Buoyed by massive support at home and the lift from aces Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo, the nationals controlled the majority of the match with a 2-1 lead only to run out of steam in a tough 24-26, 27-25, 25-21, 23-25, 14-16 defeat at the hands of Thais.
Indonesia, in the first match, had no problem dispatching Vietnam, 25-23, 21-25, 25-14, 25-23, to bolster its second straight title after sweeping the opening leg in Jakarta last week.
In that leg, the Filipino spikers succumbed to a 22-25, 20-25, 20-25 loss to Thailand.
But an almost entirely different Philippine team showed up in Santa Rosa with Bagunas, Espejo and Leg 1 Best Opposite Hitter Steven Rotter taking turns in steering the ship.
Bagunas fired 25 points on 23 hits and two blocks while Espejo and Rotter added 24 and 17 points, respectively, for the Philippines that came so close to finally breaking through in the inaugural regional tilt.
Supakorn Jenthaisong and Jakkrit Thanomnoi posted 28 and 22 points, respectively, to lead Thailand in a stellar comeback for a 1-0 slate in the two-hour and 34-minute match.
Earlier, Dimas Saputra sizzled with 22 points on 21 attacks as the Indonesians gained a piece of the lead with the Thais.
Thuan Nguyen Ngoc was the lone twin-digit scorer for Vietnam with 17 points.
The Philippines seeks to rebound against Indonesia Saturday at 6 p.m. with hopes of scoring a maiden win at home for a potential podium finish in the historic regional tilt presented by PLDT and backed by the City of Santa Rosa, Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission, One Sports and Cignal.
Meanwhile, at 4 p.m., Thailand goes for 2-0 against Vietnam in the duel of first leg podium finishers.
(ai/mnm)
Sniper Leonard Santillan (left) of Rain or Shine is expected to go all out for Team PH in the Jones Cup. (PBA photo courtesy)
Rain or Shine’s sharpshooters, Rey Nambatac and Leonard Santillan, are already adopting a winning mindset as they gear up for the 2023 William Jones Cup, set to commence on August 12 in Chinese Taipei.
Despite the tournament’s three-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Elasto Painters are eager to face challenging international competition once again.
In an interview with mainstream media, both young leaders from Rain or Shine acknowledged the tough opposition they expect to encounter in the upcoming event.
Rey Nambatac expressed his excitement about the chance to test their character and gain valuable experience on the international stage.
As a relatively young team, the latest batch of Rain or Shine players is determined to prove themselves.
They are fortunate to have seasoned veterans like Beau Belga and Gabe Norwood, who bring their experience from representing the national team on multiple occasions.
With this mix of youth and experience, Rain or Shine is ready to give their all in the prestigious Jones Cup tournament.
(ai/mnm)
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has launched an investigation into the tragic sinking of a passenger boat off Binangonan, Rizal, which resulted in the loss of at least 26 lives.
The incident occurred on Thursday, and as search and rescue efforts continue for the missing individuals, PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armand Balilo stated that the investigation would encompass their personnel’s actions as well.
One of the primary aspects under scrutiny is why the boat was permitted to set sail despite being overloaded.
The vessel in question, M/B Princess Aya, had a capacity for 40 passengers, but the manifest only listed 22 names, while 26 casualties have been reported.
Following the accident that took place around 12:30 p.m. near Barangay Kalinawan in Binangonan, around 40 people were fortunately rescued.
The boat was en route to Barangay Gulod, Talim Island when it encountered the unfortunate event.
Balilo mentioned that strong winds caused panic among the passengers, leading them to shift to one side of the boat, ultimately causing it to capsize.
In light of this tragic incident, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has taken swift action by suspending the Passenger Safety Certificate of the MBca Aya Express, the owner of the ill-fated boat.
The suspension comes as Marina expressed concerns regarding the vessel’s hull integrity, integral parts, and other affected machinery and appliances.
The authorities are committed to uncovering the factors that led to this devastating accident and will take appropriate measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. (ai/mnm)
Radyo Pilipinas photo courtesy
The lives of 56 Filipinos currently on death row in Malaysia hang in the balance as the Philippines-Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) is set to convene in October in Manila.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. himself has expressed that during the JCM, the Philippine government will prioritize discussing the potential repatriation of these prisoners, allowing them to serve the remainder of their sentences in their home country.
During a roundtable briefing with the media in Kuala Lumpur, as his three-day state visit to Malaysia came to a close, President Marcos emphasized the significance of this upcoming JCM, which has not been convened for some time.
He mentioned that the issue of transferring Filipinos back to the Philippines is being actively addressed by the Kuala Lumpur Embassy, and he is optimistic about the cooperative working relationship between the two nations on this matter.
The repatriation of Filipinos currently held in Malaysian jails was brought up by the President in his recent face-to-face meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the offenses committed by these inmates vary, with 30 convicted of murder, 18 of drug trafficking, and the remaining eight imprisoned for waging a war against the King of Malaysia during the 2013 Lahad Datu siege. (ai/mnm)
Photo courtesy of Bombo Radyo
In the aftermath of Super Typhoon Egay and the devastating floods it brought, the city of Dagupan in Pangasinan has officially been declared under a state of calamity.
Mayor Belen Fernandez made the announcement via a Facebook post on Friday, informing the public of the severe situation.
The declaration came as a result of the significant flooding and adverse effects caused by the powerful typhoon.
Mayor Fernandez, who also serves as the chairman of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, presented the recommendation for the state of calamity, which was subsequently approved by the Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council).
As of Thursday, numerous houses in Dagupan’s low-lying areas have suffered extensive damage.
A tornado further exacerbated the situation, partially damaging 191 houses and completely destroying 21 homes.
In her message, Mayor Belen Fernandez urged the residents of Dagupan to prioritize their safety during this challenging time.
She assured them that every possible measure is being taken to ensure their well-being and to facilitate the city’s recovery from this calamity. (ai/mnm)
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has taken decisive action to benefit Independent Power Producers (IPPs) by signing Executive Order (EO) 36.
This order, made public on Friday and signed on July 25, aims to lower real property taxes (RPTs), interests, and penalties on the property, machinery, and equipment utilized by IPPs operating under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) agreement.
The executive order is in accordance with Republic Act (RA) 7160, also known as the Local Government Code of 1991, which grants the President the authority to reduce or condone real property taxes and interests in the interest of the public.
In this case, the reduction and condonation will apply to power generation facilities of IPPs that have BOT contracts with government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs).
President Marcos’s order covers all liabilities related to real property tax, including special levies for the Special Education Fund, for the year 2023.
It specifically applies to property, machinery, and equipment that are directly used by IPPs for electricity production under BOT schemes and similar contractual arrangements.
This move is expected to provide significant financial relief and support for the independent power producers in their operations. (ai/mnm)