By Junex Doronio
DESPITE THE CLAIM of Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Ivan Uy that the number of text scams declined after the enactment of the SIM (subscriber identity module) Registration Act, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) on Friday said online registration of SIM cards should be temporarily stopped.
PAOCC executive director Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz argued that the system still accepts fake identities and information.
“Siguro po for the meantime — suggestion lang po ito sa amin — huwag muna natin gamitin iyong ating SIM registration, iyong mga bago lang na magpapa-rehistro,” Cruz said in his interview with GMA Integrated News’ Unang Balita.
Earlier, on Wednesday, September 13, in a press briefing Uy claimed that there are now lesser SIM card-based scammers.
The mandated SIM registration under RA 11934 lapsed on July 25, 2023 with more than 100 million validated SIM cards by the three telcos namely: Globe, Smart and DITO Telecommunity.
“Kung mapapansin ninyo during the SIM card registration period, for me, in my personal case, I averaged about six or seven text messages na scam per day – six or seven. Today, I probably get one or one in two days or three days,” Uy said.
It was gathered that the DICT is also seeking an additional P300 million in confidential funds to go after the remaining scammers.
But Cruz expressed apprehension to the effectiveness of SIM card registration.
He disclosed that they found and confiscated an equipment that can register up to 64 SIM cards at the same time.
The PAOCC official noted that this equipment is for sale even online.
Cruz suggested that telecommunication companies (telcos) and authorities should “physically or manually” check the information of registrants.
With this procedure, they can remove those who submitted dummy information and conduct and go after the “scammers”, he concluded.
By Junex Doronio
Not Senator Risa Hontiveros, so it seems, as she has issued a “strongly worded” video addressed to Duterte in response to the latter’s verbal assaults against her for demanding transparency on how she used her confidential funds (CFs).
On Tuesday, September 12, Duterte lambasted Hontiveros and ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro for questioning the Office of the Vice President’s use of CFs in 2022.
When asked in a Davao City radio interview, why she singled out Hontiveros and Castro, the feisty Vice President and Education Secretary curtly replied: “Because I do not respect Ms. Castro and Ms. Hontiveros. I have no respect for them.”
It was learned that the OVP sought a P500-million CF purportedly to streamline its operations, while the Department of Education (DepEd) asked for P150-million so it could conduct surveillance on radical groups reportedly recruiting students.
“Hindi ko hinihingi ang respeto mo, VP Sara. Ang hinihingi ko sa iyo, at ng taumbayan, ay accountability,” Hontiveros sharply replied.
The opposition lawmaker also appeared unafraid of the second highest official of the land.
“Kung hindi mo kayang irespeto ang mga katrabaho mo, irespeto mo man lang sana ang paggasta ng pera ng bayan,” Hontiveros hammered on.
She noted that a week has passed since the Senate tackled the proposed CFs, and it was only last September 12 that Duterte took notice of the issue.
Earlier, Hontiveros had pressed for bigger confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs) for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in the face of frequent Chinese incursions in the West Philippine Sea.
She lamented the “measly” P10-million funds that the PCG receives, saying it paled in comparison with the CIFs of other civilian government agencies — apparently referring to OVP and DepEd — that are not mandated to protect national security.
“The lives of our coast guards are at stake every time they conduct maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea. They are the ones who tirelessly and gallantly confront these massive and numerous Chinese vessels in the open sea,” Hontiveros noted.
(ai/mnm)
TAHASANG sinabi ni Mang Albino, isang rice retailer sa Quezon City, na ang ayudang P15,000 na ipinamahagi
ng gobyerno nitong nakaraang Sabado ay nakatulong ngunit hindi, aniya, sapat.
Ayon pa sa kanya, may mga tauhan siyang pinapasuweldo, trucking cost at puwesto na binabayaran.
Sa isang panayam naman sa isa pang rice retailer na si Andy Domingo, sinabi niya na ang ipinamahaging P15K na kanyang tinanggap ay nakatulong naman at ayon pa sa kanya ay maraming mga consumers ang masaya.
Samantala, ayon naman kay Mang Arnaldo lnigo ng North Caloocan, hindi naman siguro kailangan pa ng ayuda at aniya pa, dapat ang gobyerno na lamang ang namigay ng bigas at hindi na dinadaan sa mga retailer.
Matatandang naipamahagi na sa ilang rice retailers na apektado ng price cap ang P15, 000
na ayuda mula sa gobyerno, ngunit marami ang hindi sang-ayon dito.
Umaalingawngaw naman na “KULANG” ang tugon sa ayudang natanggap ng ilang maliliit na rice retailers.
Ang video ng ilan sa mga interview ng Maharlika NuMedia ay matutunghayan dito.
(Benjamin Cuaresma/ai/mnm)
Opening of the Malolos Congress on September 15, 1898 (Kahimyang Project)
On September 15, 1898, the Malolos Congress opened in Barasoain Church with 95 delegates from various parts of the country, gathered to begin the national convention of the Philippine revolutionary government.
Pedro A. Paterno, the man whom the revolutionists had so satirically admonished for his leaning towards Spanish sovereignty less than four (4) months before, was elected President of Congress. He was chosen to guide the political destinies of this budding democracy and preside over their republican legislative body.
Benito Legarda was chosen to be Vice-President and Pablo Ocampo and Gregorio Araneta were secretaries.
Two days later, on September 17th, Pedro Paterno made an inspiring address, in which he said:
Filipinos, today begins a new era; we are beholding the political resurrection of our people. Amidst the glooms of yesterday; amidst the graves of our heroes and martyrs; amidst the ruins of the past, there arises and stands the refulgent genius of liberty, embracing all the islands and uniting the Filipinos with bonds of holy brotherhood.
Liberty is the real purpose of our existence on earth, the foundation of life and progress.
Our past, the era of cruelty, of deceit, of slavery, has ended. We shall renew the history of the Philippines … Filipinos, proceed! Let our steps be unflinching and ever forward; let them be steps of justice, of love, of harmony, and of charity; let us win the sympathy of the whole world with generous and humanitarian deeds; and let us write, in the presence of the Lord, of the Supreme Being, the oath of our independence.
Election of the Malolos Congress delegates was held between June 23 and September 10 following the declaration of independence from Spain on June 12, 1898 at Kawit, Cavite, and the transformation of the dictatorial government to a revolutionary government on June 23.
One of the first acts of the Malolos congress was the ratification on September 29, of the “June 12 Declaration of independence”.
The congress then drafted a Constitution, a decision which was opposed by Apolinario Mabini, the Prime Minister of the revolutionary government or President of the Council of Government.
The resulting Malolos Constitution was ratified on November 29, 1898, signed into law on December 23, approved on January 20, 1899, sanctioned by President Emilio Aguinaldo on January 21, and promulgated on January 22 1899.
References:
Philippines News Agency archives
The Philippines, John Foreman, Filipiniana Book Guild, 1980, Manila
Pambansang Komisyong Pangkasaysayan
The development of Philippine politics, Maximo M. Kalaw, Manila
Kahimyang Project
(Filed by Jr. Amigo/ai/mnm)
CEBU CITY — Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco of the Department of Tourism (DOT) delivered the welcome remarks of the inaugural gathering of the Philippine Tourism Dive Dialogue (PTDD) on Thursday, September 14, 2023, before a large audience from both the public and private sectors here.
This event primarily focuses on insightful discussions tailored to engage stakeholders and experts within the dive tourism industry.
The PTDD is made up of stakeholders from dive resort operators and diving enthusiasts.
For the fifth consecutive year, the Philippines has been recognized as Asia’s top dive destination at the 2023 World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia Oceania Gala ceremony.
Among the Philippines’ most renowned diving locations are Pescador Island, Amos Rock, Manta Bowl, and many others. Divers also have the opportunity to explore World War II shipwrecks in Palawan and Subic.
The World Travel Awards is an annual event that acknowledges excellence across all major sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. (ai/mnm/Benjie Cuaresma)
The Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary, Gilberto Teodoro Jr., has refuted claims suggesting that the United States’ presence in the Philippines is exacerbating tensions in the region. During an interview with ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), Teodoro asserted that it is, in fact, China’s “expansionist policy” that is driving up tensions in the area.
“In the context of the Philippines, I respectfully disagree; it is China’s expansionist policy that is actually escalating tensions, not only with us but also with Vietnam and other regional actors. Their insistence on the 10-dash line is clear evidence of their intent to heighten tensions in the region,” Teodoro emphasized.
He pointed out that the primary issue at present is China’s harassment activities, as they refuse to acknowledge the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone. Teodoro clarified that the Philippines is not seeking to contain China but rather enforcing international law, which is in their favor. He also criticized China’s use of the term “containment,” suggesting that it is disingenuous since it implies an intention to expand.
Regarding the August 5 water cannon incident involving the Chinese Coast Guard and Filipino resupply boats in the Ayungin Shoal, Teodoro highlighted that it demonstrates the Philippines’ determination to assert its rights independently, without excessive reliance on the US.
“The water cannoning incident proves that we are not overly dependent on the US. If we were, we would have requested their escort, which we did not do because we want to pursue our own approach and maintain a balanced foreign policy. Our foremost priority is to assert our rights under international law,” he added.
Teodoro also expressed the Philippines’ willingness to engage with China, provided there is a framework based on international law.
In response, a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) official expressed disappointment at doubts cast on the PCG’s capabilities to safeguard the country’s exclusive economic zone. Commodore Jay Tarriela, the PCG spokesperson, affirmed the commitment of the 30,000-strong PCG to fulfill their duty in the West Philippine Sea, regardless of external assistance.
“It is disheartening to hear doubts about our ability to carry out this duty without relying on external actors,” he remarked.
Additionally, both Philippine and American military commanders have indicated that they may recommend the establishment of more Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in the Philippines. However, they emphasized that further discussions and approvals are needed before any decisions are made. The US Indo-Pacific Command chief, Adm. John Aquilino, mentioned that additional projects have been identified for the existing EDCA sites, with substantial investment from the United States to enhance the capability and capacity of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Dr. Anthony Leachon and former DOH Secretary and now House Deputy Majority Leader Janette Garin (right) of Iloilo.
By Junex Doronio
PARTING IS SUCH A SWEET SORROW, as William Shakespeare said through his character Juliet, but the Department of Health (DoH) has to let Dr. Anthony Leachon go.
On Thursday, the DOH said the agency “respects and confirms [the] withdrawal of Dr. Anthony Leachon as health special adviser for non-communicable diseases” who was earlier “mercilessly grilled” by former DOH Secretary and now House Deputy Majority Leader Janette Garin representing Iloilo.
The Ilongga lawmaker, however, clarified that her scrutiny of Leachon’s qualifications was not a personal attack.
“This is not a personal matter concerning Leachon,” Garin quipped.
But the DOH has only good words for Leachon.
“Among many other well meaning friends of the Department, Internist and Cardiologist Dr. Anthony Leachon volunteered his time and effort to assist on noncommunicable diseases. The Department is grateful for this expression of support,” the DOH said in a statement.
The DOH also pointed out that all offers of assistance and support are worth considering, especially if they will benefit every Filipino.
“The Department admires the good doctor’s wish to refocus on family, and remains open to any and all good intentions of assistance, as we all march forward united towards Universal Health Care (UHC),” the statement further said. (ai/mnm)
MANILA — Senator Francis “Tol” Tolentino on Thursday underscored that defining the Philippine maritime zones will “allow Filipinos to responsibly enjoy the bounty of the Philippines’ rich maritime and archipelagic waters.”
In the inaugural hearing of the Senate Special Committee on Maritime and Admiralty Zones chaired by Tolentino, he said: “Hindi po malayo sa sikmura ang kawalan ng maritime zones ng Pilipinas. Leaving the Philippine maritime zones largely undefined will slow our ability to responsibly exploit and develop our resources.”
He cited that the Philippines has been importing fish, but there’s a huge untapped potential in the disputed territory.
“The West Philippine Sea has almost 40 percent of the maritime domain, but accounts only for 6.36 percent of the total fisheries production of the country in 2022,” Sen. Tol said.
Likewise, the Maritime Zone panel chairman highlighted that the Filipinos have been experiencing high electricity prices but WPS has energy resources remaining idle.
The initial hearing gathered several domestic and foreign experts on maritime zone laws. Succeeding hearings are expected to finalize a Philippine map that the country can use as a legal basis for its territorial claim. (AI/MNM)
Photo: BOC Port of Cebu District Collector Ricardo “Ricky” Uy Morales II (extreme right, in dark polo shirt)
By Junex Doronio
IN HIS GOAL TO ENSURE the efficient and secure flow of goods and commodities through this vital trade gateway, Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Cebu, under the leadership of District Collector Atty. Ricardo “Ricky” Uy Morales II has personally led the inspection of Cebu South Harbor and Container Terminal Corporation (CSHCTC) port facility last Thursday.
“The Port of Cebu plays a crucial role in the economic development of our region. Our priority is to ensure that all operations within the Port are in strict compliance with customs regulations. This includes safeguarding our borders and facilitating legitimate trade, while also warranting the lawful collection of revenues due to the government,” Morales II stressed.
Accompanying Atty. Morales II during the inspection last September 7 were Subport of Mactan Collector Gerardo A. Campo, and other BOC employees.
They closely examined various aspects of the port facilities, including cargo handling procedures, customs documentation processes, and security measures.
Under the leadership of District Collector Morales II and with guidance from Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, the Port of Cebu remains committed to fostering a secure and conducive environment for international trade, upholding the highest ethical standards, and protecting the nation’s borders.
Holding the rank of CESE (Career Executive Service Eligibility), Morales II has declared his three-points “marching order” to the men and women in the premier port of the reputed Queen of the South.
“As the new District Collector of the Port of Cebu, my marching order is to perform our three-fold mandate of revenue collection, trade facilitation, and border protection to the best of our ability,” Morales said.
Last June 5, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr. appointed Morales II as Collector of Customs VI. (ai/mnm)
MANILA — Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda emphasizes the importance of responsible public relations practices in upholding a healthy democracy.
Legarda, a former respected broadcast journalist who transitioned into politics, addressed attendees at the 30th National Public Relations Congress in Makati, highlighting their pivotal role in keeping the public well-informed.
“In a democratic nation like the Philippines, the government is answerable to the public for its actions and policies,” stated Legarda.
She further elaborated, “This is where the field of public relations comes into play, ensuring that government actions and policies are conveyed clearly and accurately to the public.”
“Through effective communication and accountability, trust is fostered, credibility is bolstered, public support is sustained, and the democratic process flourishes.”
Legarda acknowledged that in an era of rapidly evolving communication, the internet often becomes a breeding ground for fake news and propaganda, undermining the integrity of public discourse.
Given the advancements in communication technology, the field of public relations is faced with the formidable task of preserving public trust.
According to Legarda, responsible and accurate practice in the realm of social media has become a significant factor in the implementation of policies, as public discourse online can easily influence government pronouncements.
“As professionals in public relations, you are at the forefront of conveying vital information, maintaining social cohesion during crises, and can serve as active partners of the government in advancing policies related to social welfare, economic development, and environmental sustainability,” Legarda asserted.
She also praised the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) for its unwavering dedication to promoting informed decision-making among the Filipino populace.
She emphasized that this year’s Public Relations Congress has offered a valuable platform for reaffirming the industry’s commitment to delivering accurate information, a critical element in nation-building.
Legarda concluded by saying, “May you continue to lead the way in managing ethical communication strategies while promoting accuracy in information, ensuring that the community is well-informed, and empowering individuals to make informed choices.”
In her extensive tenure in public service, the four-term senator proudly shared that she has closely followed the ever-changing world shaped by technological advancements.
“My years in public service have taught me the principles of transparency, accountability, and effective communication as essential foundations for building trust, fostering good governance, and driving positive change in our communities.”
By Junex Doronio
ACKNOWLEDGING THE SUPPORT of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in the improvement in the ease of doing business,” several Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) have called on the country’s Chief Executive to take a stronger hand of curbing graft.
This is the “clarion call” of some business leaders following a 2023 PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) survey in partnership with the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) whose result showed that 97 percent of the 157 CEOs in the country said that the government is not performing well in fighting corruption.
“Usually not mentioned in terms of corruption in different speeches during the State of the Nation Address (SONA)… but the President has always supported the improvement in the ease of doing business,” PwC Philippines Deals and Corporate Finance Managing Partner Mary Jade Divinagracia lamented.
Last year’s survey, however, revealed that 67 percent of 119 CEOs all over the country believed that no strong action has been taken so far against corruption.
Divinagracia called on PBBM to include the eradication of corruption in the government’s prime focus and to develop a stronger policy against any form of graft.
“For the private sector, if we are able to address that properly or if we streamline the bureaucracy in government, especially in permits and licenses, I think it will somehow reduce corruption,” she noted.
On the other hand, MAP Conference Committee Chief Executive Officer Alma Rita Jimenez blamed what she called “enablers” for the continuing corrupt practices in the country.
“It is not going to be rocket science. But I will just say that it takes two to tango: there is no corruption if we are not going to have corruptors. Two always play the game. For me, it is a systemic problem, but it can be gradually managed if we refuse to be the initiators of corruption,” Jimenez said. (ai/mnm)
The fossilized remains found in Peru were child-sized had elongated skulls and three fingers.
DNA analysis reveal the specie had 30% differential from human DNA and without any pattern or connection to Darwinian human evolution.
Notably the difference of human DNA with primates is 5% and 15% with bacteria.
The significant difference in DNA parameter gives a 100% certainty the beings are non-human.
Mexico is the first modern government that officially reported the existence of non-human race, aliens of extra terrestial origin who have visited our planet.
However, ABC News reported that in 2017, Maussan made similar claims in Peru, and a report by the country’s prosecutor’s office found that the bodies were actually “recently manufactured dolls, which have been covered with a mixture of paper and synthetic glue to simulate the presence of skin.”
The report added that the figures were almost certainly human-made and that “they are not the remains of ancestral aliens that they have tried to present”. The bodies were not publicly unveiled at the time, so it is unclear if they are the same as those presented to Mexico’s congress.
(Filed by Jr. Amigo/ai/mnm)
September 14, 2023
Photo shows the Galeon Andalucia, a replica of the 17th Century vessels that sailed between Manila and Acapulco during the galleon trade
PHILIPPINES
On September 14, 1815, the galleon trade between the Philippines and Mexico ended a few years before Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821.
The Galeon Andalucia, a replica of the 17th Century vessels that sailed between Manila and Acapulco during the galleon trade.
The Spanish Crown took direct control of the country, and was governed directly from Madrid. The opening of the Suez Canal and the invention of steam ships, which reduced the travel time from Spain to the Philippines to 40 days, made this more manageable.
Galleon trade became the fundamental income-generating business for Spanish colonists living in the Philippine Islands with a total of 110 Manila galleons set sail in the 250 years of the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade (1565 to 1815).
The Manila galleons or Manila-Acapulco galleons sailed the Pacific for nearly three centuries, bringing to Spain their cargoes of luxury goods, economic benefits and cultural exchange.
However, galleon trade benefited only a very small coterie of privilege Spaniards – the Spanish governor, members of the consulado (merchants with consular duties and rights) usually insulares, and Spanish residents in Manila.
Positive results of the galleon trade were the intercultural exchanges between the Philippines and the Americans, symbolized by no less than the Mexican-made Virgin of Antipolo, chosen as the patroness of the sailors, who protected them from the untold perils across the Pacific.
The mango de Manila, tamarind and rice, the carabao (known by 1737 in Mexico), cockfighting, Chinese tea and textiles, fireworks display, tuba (coconut wine) making came to Mexico through the trans-Pacific trade.
In exchange, the return voyage brought innumerable and valuable flora and fauna into the Philippines: avocado, guava, papaya, pineapple, horses and cattle.
The moro-moro, moriones festival, and the image of the Black Nazarene of Quiapo, were also of Mexican origins.
The Manila-Acapulco galleon trade began when Andres de Urdaneta in convoy under Miguel Lopez de Legaspi, discovered a return route to Mexico in 1565. (Source: Philippine News Agency Archives)
WORLD
2000 Microsoft Launches Windows ME
The Millennium Edition was the last of the operating systems of the Windows 9x series.
1985 The Golden Girls Make Their Television Debut
The popular American sitcom about 4 single and older women living together in a Miami, Florida house ran for 6 seasons on NBC. The main characters in the show were played by Beatrice Arthur, Estelle Getty, Rue McClanahan, and Betty White, each of whom won the Emmys for their acting in the show. The series also won 2 Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Comedy Series and 3 Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series.
1979 The Afghan President is assassinated
Nur Muhammad Taraki had taken office less than a year ago when he was killed by gunfire at the behest of Hafizullah Amin. Amin took the seat of the president after the assassination and ruled for only 3 months before he was killed by the Soviets during Operation Storm-333.
1959 First Man-Made Object Successfully Lands on the Moon
Soviet space probe Luna 2 was also the first man-made spacecraft to land on any celestial object. It was launched on September 12, 1959, and lost communications with Earth as it impacted the Moon’s surface east of Mare Serenitatis near the Aristides, Archimedes, and Autolycus craters.
1956 IBM 305 RAMAC is Released
The 350 RAMAC was the first computer with a disk drive and was primarily targeted towards business that did real-time transactions. RAMAC stood for Random Access Method of Accounting and Control. The RAMAC 350, which was one of the last vacuum tube computers manufactured by IBM, was replaced by the IBM 1401 in the early 1960s.
(Compild by Jr. Amigo/ai/mnm)
PASAY CITY — On Wednesday, September 13, 2023, in Pasay City, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Roxas Blvd. Promenade took place, a collaborative effort between the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), and Federal Land.
This exciting development is an extension of the MMDA’s Adopt-a-Park Project, with the government allocating P70 million for the construction of an 800-meter linear park along Roxas Blvd.
Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto Rubiano expressed her warm welcome for this initiative, urging all to participate in this noble cause. She also pledged that the local government of Pasay City would actively support the maintenance and beautification of the Roxas Blvd. Promenade.
In the accompanying photos, from left to right, you can see Dir. Dioscoro Esteban, the Director of PRA; PBGEN Nolasco K. Bathan, Acting General Manager & CEO of PRA; LT. Gen. Oscar T. Lactao, Acting Chairman of PRA; Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano; SDES Hubert Gueverra, OES; Chairman Romando S. Artes of MMDA; Alfred V. Ty, Chairman of Federal Land Inc.; Ernesto Victorino, City Admin of Mandaluyong City; Atty. Voltaire C. Dela Cruz, City Admin of Parañaque City; and Usec. Frisco San Juan Jr., Deputy Chairman of MMDA.
(Benjamin Cuaresma/ai/mnm)
PASAY CITY — In distinctive initiatives, the local government units of Pasay City and Paranaque City conducted separate medical missions on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, in honor of President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr.’s 66th birthday.
The Pasay City event took place at the Cuneta Astrodome, while Paranaque City’s mission was held at 888 Square Mall in Barangay San Dionisio.
Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano spearheaded the medical mission and job fair as a part of her comprehensive “HELP” program, which focuses on Health and Housing, Education, Economic Growth and Environment, Livelihood and Lifestyle, Peace and Order, Palengke (Market), and Pamilya (Family) development.
Paranaque City Mayor Erik Olivarez expressed gratitude for the successful medical mission, emphasizing its collaboration with Congressman Edwin Olivarez’s office and the City Health Office led by Dr. Olga Virtusio.
On his 66th birthday, President Bongbong Marcos shared his heartfelt wish for a “better state of agriculture.” (Benjamin Curesma/ai/mnm)
Apple has received a directive to halt the sales of its iPhone 12 model in France due to tests revealing radiation levels surpassing the EU safety threshold. Additionally, the tech company has been instructed to either issue an update to rectify existing smartphones or recall all iPhone 12 units ever sold within the country.
France’s digital minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, downplayed concerns about the radiation levels causing cancer risks. Nevertheless, this development has once again sparked discussions regarding the safety of mobile phone usage.
The World Health Organization has previously attempted to alleviate worries about mobile phone radiation, emphasizing that there is no evidence suggesting it poses harm to humans. However, scientists caution that our understanding of safety risks beyond 20 years is limited, as most people didn’t begin using mobile phones until the late 1990s.
Do Mobile Phones Lead to Brain Cancer?
Concerns about the potential cancer-causing effects of mobile phones initially emerged in the 1990s when these portable devices became ubiquitous in households. Statistics revealed a 34 percent increase in brain tumor diagnoses in the two decades following their widespread use.
However, Cancer Research UK (CRUK) points out that mobile phone ownership in the UK surged by 500 percent between 1990 and 2016. If mobile phones were the cause, we would expect significantly higher cancer rates, they argue.
In 2011, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a branch of the World Health Organization, stated that phones may be a “possible cause of cancer” but lacked sufficient data for a definitive conclusion. Subsequent larger studies, according to CRUK, found no such link.
In the United States, institutions such as the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Federal Communications Commission all assert that there is no scientific evidence linking mobile phones to cancer.
Mobile phones emit radiofrequency waves as electromagnetic radiation from their antennas, according to the National Cancer Institute. The body region nearest to the antenna, usually the head, has the potential to absorb some of this energy. Nevertheless, several scientists argue that this radiation is non-ionizing and does not harm cells, unlike ionizing X-rays.
The rise in brain cancer rates is more likely due to improved diagnostic capabilities over the years.
So, could your iPhone be harming you?
“Currently there is no strong evidence that exposure to electromagnetic fields during mobile phone use is associated with adverse health effects,” stated Maria Feychting, a professor of epidemiology at the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm. She added that safety guidelines have significant margins of safety, and health effects are unlikely even if guidelines are slightly exceeded. However, these guidelines incorporate safety margins to account for uncertainties in scientific knowledge.
It’s important to note that the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a WHO subsidiary, has previously suggested that extreme levels of certain radio frequencies are “possibly carcinogenic to humans,” but this is considered unlikely.
There have been studies suggesting that mobile phone use can increase the risk of cancer and affect fertility. In 2014, researchers at the University of Exeter proposed a potential link between mobile phone exposure and reduced sperm quality, though more research was deemed necessary due to limited evidence. A separate study in 2020 claimed that using a mobile phone for as little as 17 minutes per day over 10 years increased the risk of cancerous tumors by up to 60 percent. However, Cancer Research UK disputes these claims.
The police are currently conducting an investigation into the tragic death of a woman whose health took a severe turn for the worse just two days after she underwent comprehensive whole-body liposuction at a clinic in Russia.
Anna Andrea, aged 47, had opted for an extensive procedure that encompassed fat removal from multiple areas, including her face, neck, chin, breasts, stomach, hips, flanks, back, inner and outer thighs, buttocks, knees, calves, and ankles, all performed in a single session.
The surgery was carried out by renowned Russian plastic surgeon Maria Burlova, who heads the Abriell Clinic in St. Petersburg. However, Dr. Burlova may now potentially face legal consequences related to this case.
Anna’s grieving husband and daughter expressed their distress, stating that they were not informed when she was rushed to a state hospital due to complications that arose just two days after the procedure. It is suspected that she may have experienced a heart attack and severe body swelling.
Kira Fedora, Anna’s shocked daughter, revealed that her mother had initially only planned for a facelift. She asserted that the decision to undergo surgery on her entire body was influenced by external pressures, particularly from the clinic, which actively promoted such comprehensive procedures. Prior to the surgery, Anna had undergone heart checks, and the results had indicated no concerns.
After the full-body liposuction, Anna remained in communication with her family, but this abruptly ceased as her health deteriorated. Kira added that they have already initiated legal action against the clinic.
Dr. Burlova has not yet issued a statement regarding this matter. An advertisement video featuring the surgeon promoting her services is also in circulation.
(Sourced online/ai/mnm)
No reports of Filipino casualties or injuries have emerged in the aftermath of the floods in eastern Libya caused by a deadly rainstorm that struck the country on Sunday night.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by Ma. Teresita Daza, the spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs, there are approximately 1,100 Filipinos in eastern Libya, with 90 of them residing in areas severely affected by the storm. Daza confirmed that no Filipino casualties had been reported, and the individuals in these areas had been relocated to higher ground under the guidance of hospital management.
Daza further noted that Filipino nurses in the region continue to fulfill their duties in hospitals, despite the challenges posed by limited communication due to widespread power outages.
As of the Philippine Embassy in Tripoli’s Assistance-to-Nationals mapping from August 20 to 24, around 30 Filipinos are located in the Derna district (five in the city of Derna and 25 in Umm al Rizam), 50 are situated in the Jabel al Akhmatova district, and 10 are in Tobruk. The majority of these individuals work as nurses and clinical instructors.
The Philippine Embassy in Tripoli is actively liaising with Filipino community leaders in the area and maintaining vigilant oversight of the situation.
Local reports from Libya indicate that the toll from Storm Daniel, which breached dams and inundated neighborhoods in affected areas as of September 12, stands at over 3,000 reported fatalities and approximately 10,000 individuals missing. Initial assessments also reveal extensive damage to infrastructure, including the submergence of dozens of villages and towns due to the widespread flooding.
The Blue Eagles overcame two nail-biting sets before dominating in the third set, securing a 25-23, 26-24, 25-9 victory against the defending champion National U Bulldogs. This win propelled Ateneo into the semifinals of the V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge held at the Paco Arena in Manila on Wednesday.
Ateneo relied on their swift transition play to break away in the third set, surging to a commanding 16-6 lead and ultimately sealing their elimination round with a 5-2 win-loss record.
Ken Batas spearheaded Ateneo’s attack with an impressive 17 points, which included pivotal kills during the intense second set. He tallied 14 attack points throughout the match.
Jian Salarzon contributed 14 points, including three crucial blocks, while Amil Pacinio added nine points, including two vital spikes that capped a 3-0 turnaround in the second frame.
Jade Disquitado made a strong comeback with 11 points, while Michaelo Buddin settled for nine points for the Bulldogs. This loss dropped the Bulldogs to a 3-3 record, putting them in a must-win situation against the San Beda U team to keep their semifinal hopes alive.
In an earlier match, Far Eastern U kept their slim chances of reaching the semifinals alive as they defeated Emilio Aguinaldo College with a score of 25-21, 25-18, 25-21. FEU concluded the elimination round with a 4-3 record, with two more playdates remaining.
In a tight third set with the score tied at 20, the Tams turned to Dryx Saavedra, who led FEU’s 5-1 closing run with his powerful serves, before Andrei Delicana sealed the victory with a solid cross-court kill.
All 14 players nominated by FEU for the match had the chance to step onto the court, with Saavedra leading the charge with 16 points from 15 attacks and an ace. Setter Ariel Cacao played a pivotal role with 19 excellent sets and three attacks. (ai/mnm)
The House committee responsible for budget allocation has concluded its hearings on the proposed national budget for 2024, which amounts to P5.768 trillion.
Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co, the committee chair, announced this development on Wednesday, expressing his gratitude to fellow committee members for their thorough scrutiny and diligence in reviewing the budget proposal for the upcoming year.
Co highlighted that the budget discussions were characterized by transparency and rigorous examination to comprehensively cover all sectors and address the nation’s top priorities. Government agencies presented their budget proposals, and committee members, in turn, meticulously analyzed the figures, questioned the methodologies, and suggested potential amendments.
“We’ve made significant progress towards finalizing the 2024 budget, which is set to be a landmark budget focusing on national growth and the well-being of the Filipino people,” stated Co. He also commended his colleagues in the Appropriations Committee and dedicated congressmen who contributed valuable insights during the budget review.
Co stressed the importance of timely budget approval to avoid disruptions to government programs and services. He committed to achieving this by aiming to approve the budget on its final reading before the congressional break from September 30 to November 5.
“I am fully committed to expediting the passage of the 2024 General Appropriations Act. Ensuring an efficient and effective enactment of the budget is both our moral and civic duty to better serve our fellow Filipinos,” he affirmed.
Co explained that the next step in the budget process involves consolidating all recommendations and amendments before presenting it for plenary deliberation. He assured that his committee is putting in extra effort to advance the legislative process.
“While there is still work ahead, the conclusion of these budget hearings represents a crucial milestone in our journey towards a more prosperous and equitable Philippines,” Co concluded.