President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. revealed that his upcoming second State of the Nation Address (Sona) on July 24, 2023, will serve as a straightforward performance report to the Filipino people. He intends to highlight the “significant progress” achieved during his tenure and outline the areas that require further attention.
In a brief media interview during the distribution of government assistance in Pampanga, President Marcos emphasized the simplicity of his upcoming Sona. He expressed his desire to present to the people a clear assessment of the government’s accomplishments over the past year, assessing whether the numerous promises made were translated into meaningful actions or merely empty words.
The president underlined the importance of the report as a means to communicate with the public. He aims to showcase the progress made in various aspects, not just in terms of improved systems and governance but also in how the country is now perceived and judged on the international stage.
Scheduled for 4 p.m., the president’s second Sona will be delivered before a joint session of Congress. (AI/MNM)
During his second State of the Nation Address at around 4p.m tomorrow, Monday 24 July 2023, President Bongbong Marcos expressed his intention to apprise the Filipino people of the substantial advancements achieved under his leadership.
In an ambush interview in Pampanga, the President was asked about the anticipated content of his address.
“It’s quite straightforward. It’s essentially a performance report for Filipinos to discern the meaningfulness behind the multitude of pronouncements and words spoken – whether they were truly impactful or merely rhetoric,” Marcos conveyed.
“We shall witness and evaluate the progress we have accomplished. The transformation is evident not only in the efficient functioning of our systems and government but also in how the international community perceives and assesses us. That aspect is equally crucial,” he further elaborated. (ai/mnm)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has been placed on full alert in preparation for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday.
The heightened alert status began at 5 p.m. on Sunday and will remain in effect until 12 noon on July 25, as stated by PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo.
Fajardo reassured that all security measures are in place, and there have been no credible threats identified that could compromise the peace, order, and security during the SONA.
The PNP is actively coordinating with other security sectors to prevent any potential incidents and is ready for any worst-case scenarios.
Both pro and anti-government rallyists have been advised to adhere to the conditions and limitations specified in their rally permits. Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos confirmed that necessary contingencies are in place to ensure the smooth flow of the event, which is expected to host over 2,000 guests.
The police have committed to exercising restraint and maximum tolerance towards rally participants who are anticipated to converge in various areas.
In terms of traffic management and safety, the Quezon City government is taking proactive measures. They will deploy 800 enforcers from the Transport and Traffic Management Department, 6,123 uniformed officers from the Quezon City Police District, and 375 personnel from the Department of Public Order and Safety. Additionally, the QC Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department will dispatch 287 personnel, including Emergency Medical Services and Search and Rescue teams, to ensure public safety and prompt response to any unforeseen incidents.
The city government emphasized the importance of complying with laws and regulations during the rallies, upholding QC’s commitment as a bastion of free speech and respecting everyone’s right to peaceful assembly, as protected by the Constitution. Pro-administration groups are designated to gather near the Commission on Audit, while protesters may assemble near the Tandang Sora overpass. (ai/mnm)
Young Filipino basketball player, Kai Sotto, has caught the attention of PBA legends Sean Chambers and Derrick Hamilton during his recent appearance with the Orlando Magic in the NBA Summer League.
Chambers, renowned for leading Alaska to six PBA championships in the 1990s, admired Sotto’s display of the “true Filipino fighting spirit” when he had the opportunity to face the Portland Trailblazers.
“When I watched Kai’s first game, he seemed a bit hesitant and shy on the court, not immediately imposing his presence. However, after a minute passed, I witnessed the genuine Filipino fighting spirit within him,” expressed Chambers during his appearance on former PBA commissioner Noli Eala’s online sports forum Power and Play.
The 58-year-old Chambers also praised Sotto’s quick instincts, great hands, and athleticism. He commended the young slotman’s instinctive blocked shots and mid-range jumper.
In his Summer League debut, Sotto showcased his potential, recording six points on 3-for-7 shooting, along with four rebounds and three blocks.
Meanwhile, Derrick Hamilton highlighted Sotto’s NBA-ready skill set and mindset. Hamilton, who made an impressive debut for Pepsi in 1990 with 77 points, emphasized the importance of Sotto’s development in areas such as nutrition, diet, strength and conditioning, and footwork. He stressed the need to excel on both ends of the court, not solely focusing on offense.
“With the right group of people and a strong work ethic, the sky’s the limit for that guy,” Hamilton said, expressing his optimism for Sotto’s future prospects.
Kai Sotto’s performance in the NBA Summer League has left a lasting impression on these legendary PBA imports, and many are hopeful for his bright basketball career ahead. (ai/mnm)
The Kurashiki Ablaze of Japan were left in awe of the overwhelming support from Filipino volleyball fans as they made their debut in the PVL Invitational Conference at the PhilSports Arena on Saturday, July 22.
In their opening match, Kurashiki secured a victory against the Vietnamese team, Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh, with a score of 23-25, 25-14, 25-20, 25-11, kickstarting their semifinal campaign on a high note.
Ablaze head coach Hideo Suzuki, speaking through an interpreter, expressed his delight at the fantastic PVL debut experience, citing the abundance of fans and cheers as a testament to the Filipino’s love for volleyball.
He acknowledged that their next opponent, Cignal, also boasts a strong fan base but assured that his team would give their best performance.
Throughout the game, the stadium was packed with around 7,000 passionate fans, and both Kurashiki Ablaze and Bac Ninh were treated to showers of cheers whenever the cameras focused on them, their faces illuminating the big screens of the arena.
Tamaru Asaka, who played a pivotal role in Kurashiki’s victory with 29 points, expressed her team’s joy in playing in the Philippines. The massive and enthusiastic audience made them feel welcomed, and they were grateful for the opportunity to compete in such a vibrant atmosphere.
Indeed, the Filipino fans left an indelible mark on the visiting teams, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
(ai/mnm)
Rianne Malixi’s hopes were dashed as Kiara Romero managed a narrow 1-up victory, snatching the championship title in the US Girls’ Junior at the Eisenhower Golf Club’s Blue course in Colorado. Malixi had displayed remarkable resilience in the morning session, but she lost her rhythm after the break.
In a thrilling finale that extended to all 36 holes, Malixi initially took charge, securing a two-hole lead twice, with the last one coming on the 16th hole due to a mistake by Romero. Despite bogeying the 18th, she finished the first 18 holes with a one-hole advantage.
However, things took a turn for Malixi as she struggled following the break, losing a stroke on the 22nd hole and allowing Romero to level the match. On the 26th hole, another mishap led her to trail in the match for the first time. Malixi managed to draw level on the 28th hole, only to fall behind again after a bogey on the 31st hole, which she had parred during the morning battle.
For 17-year-old Romero, an incoming freshman at the University of Oregon and with Filipino heritage, the victory was sweet. She held her composure in the crucial moments and matched Malixi’s pars in the final five holes, securing her place as the champion and earning an exemption to the upcoming US Women’s Open and an invitation to the 2024 Augusta Women’s Amateur.
It was a heartbreaking moment for Malixi, who had hoped to cap off an extraordinary week marked by impressive wins, including an impressive victory over Audrey Rischer in the Round of 16. Despite her gutsy performance throughout the tournament, she fell short of clinching the ultimate prize and adding a crowning glory to her already stellar amateur career.
The battle between Malixi and Romero was intense, with both players displaying their skills and determination. In the end, it was Romero who emerged victorious, denying Malixi’s attempt to match Princess Superal’s record win in the 2014 edition of the annual event in Arizona. (ai/mnm)
Australian coach Alen Stajcic remains steadfast in his belief in the Filipinas’ abilities as they prepare for a crucial encounter against New Zealand at the Sky Stadium in Wellington. Despite their 0-2 loss to Switzerland in their FIFA Women’s World Cup Group A opener, Stajcic expressed unwavering confidence in his team.
Reflecting on the match against Switzerland, Stajcic praised the Filipinas for their remarkable performance in their World Cup debut. He highlighted their composure and poise, even against a strong Swiss team. Stajcic acknowledged that some doubted the team’s nerves and suitability for the World Cup stage, but he firmly believed that they deserved to be there and proved their worth.
The coach particularly praised the team’s exceptional showing in the early stages of the game, showcasing their preparation and determination. After learning valuable lessons from the Swiss match, the Filipinas continued refining their play at their training facility before heading to Wellington for the upcoming game against New Zealand.
In recalling their previous encounter with New Zealand, where the Ferns secured a 2-1 victory, Stajcic acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead. New Zealand, boosted by their recent upset win against Norway, will be backed by an enthusiastic home crowd, making the task even more daunting for the Filipinas.
However, Stajcic highlighted the team’s history of overcoming adversity, exemplified by their triumphant campaign in capturing the 10th AFF Women’s Championship trophy in Manila a year ago. Rebounding from a close 0-1 loss to Thailand in the group stage, the Filipinas rallied to defeat defending champions Vietnam 4-0 in the semifinals and secured a resounding 3-0 victory over Thailand in the final.
Overall, Alen Stajcic remains optimistic and proud of his team’s representation of the Philippines, instilling a sense of belief that they can rise to the challenge and make their mark on the international stage.
Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri has pledged to ensure the passage of 20 priority bills of national significance by December 2023. As the second regular session of the 19th Congress commences on Monday, July 24, the Senate is fully prepared to address key measures from both the legislative and executive branches.
Zubiri emphasized the need for prompt action, stating, “We need to hit the ground running. We made a commitment that, on the part of the Senate, we will pass 20 priority bills by December 2023,” as he conveyed in a recent statement.
Among the crucial bills, the Senate aims to advocate for a legislated wage hike to uplift the lives of Filipino workers. Additionally, the proposed Public-Private Partnership Act will seek to amend Republic Act (RA) 6957, commonly known as the “Build-Operate-Transfer” Law. The Senate will also focus on the establishment of the National Disease Prevention Management Authority, the proposed Internet Transactions Act, and the creation of the Medical Reserve Corps and the Virology Institute of the Philippines.
Furthermore, the Senate plans to reinstate the mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Program and work on revitalizing the Philippines’ salt industry. Streamlining government transactions and services will also be a priority for the Senate, involving proposed measures such as the Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act, the E-Governance and E-Government Act, and the Ease of Paying Taxes Act. Additionally, the National Government Rightsizing Act, Automatic Income Classification of Local Government Units, and bills providing for a Unified System for Separation, Retirement, and Pension of Military and Uniformed Services will be considered.
Moreover, the Senate envisions the enactment of the Waste-to-Energy Act, the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, and the proposed “Trabaho Para Sa Bayan” Act, along with measures addressing Anti-Financial Scamming and proposed amendments to the Bank Secrecy Law.
Several proposed bills are set for the third and final reading, including the Philippine Defense Industry Development Act, the Cybersecurity Act, and amendments to the procurement provisions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act. As the Senate prepares to take on these important matters, Zubiri expressed the commitment to effectively address the nation’s priorities during this legislative period.
Photo courtesy of Taiwan News
Effective immediately, the Department of Transportation has announced that the mandatory requirement for wearing face masks in public transport has been lifted. This decision comes in the wake of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. terminating the Covid-19 state of public health emergency.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has further disclosed that physical distancing protocols on public transportation have also been lifted. As a result, all passenger vehicles are now permitted to operate at their full capacity.
Bautista emphasized that while public safety remains paramount, the removal of these protocols is aimed at enhancing commuters’ convenience and bolstering the transportation industry’s revival. This move is also expected to stimulate economic activity in the country.
Despite these changes, Bautista assured the public that frequent sanitization of public transportation will be diligently maintained to mitigate any potential health risks. (ai/mnm)
The Philippine women’s softball team put up a valiant effort but faced a tough defeat against Canada, losing 5-0 in an intense Group C match during the Women’s Softball World Cup on Saturday, July 22 (Manila time) in Italy.
Despite entering the tournament with high motivation and confidence, the 26th-ranked Blu Girls were outmatched by the 5th-ranked Canadian team.
“Our opponents were undoubtedly formidable and proved to be better than us this time. Nevertheless, looking ahead, the team has reevaluated their strategies and learned from their mistakes, which could potentially aid them in bouncing back against the remaining contenders,” stated Jean Henri Lhuillier, president and benefactor of the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (Asaphil).
Although facing this setback, the Blu Girls remain optimistic about their chances to advance in the next round. Their upcoming challenge awaits against No. 2 Japan, the reigning Asia Cup champion, at 11 p.m. on Sunday, July 23 (Manila time).
Group C comprises other formidable teams, including No. 8 Italy, No. 22 Venezuela, and No. 29 New Zealand.
This marks the Philippine Blu Girls’ seventh appearance in the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) World Cup. Their best achievement to date was securing third place in 1970.
In Group A, held in Ireland, the defending champions United States dominated Great Britain with a resounding 7-0 victory in the final, while Australia outplayed Great Britain 4-1 in the repechage.
Meanwhile, in Group B action held in Spain, Puerto Rico secured a close 2-1 victory against China in the final, with China later suffering a 2-0 loss to the Netherlands in the repechage game.
By Benjie Cuaresma
MANILA — Several major roads in Metro Manila will remain closed to motorists until Monday, July 24, 2023, due to ongoing road reblocking operations, as announced by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
The affected roads are as follows:
C-5 Road (NB), from P. Antonio to fronting Subaru (Lane 4), Pasig City
C-5 Road (SB), from Korean Embassy to Makati City
C-3 Road eastbound, between J. Teodoro to Rizal Avenue (4th Lane from sidewalk), Caloocan City
C-3 Road eastbound, between Rizal Avenue and Maria Clara St. (2nd Lane from sidewalk), Caloocan City
EDSA (NB), between Gen. Mascardo to Tandang Sora, Caloocan City
Rizal Ave. Exit (NB), between 1st Avenue and 2nd Avenue (3rd Lane), Caloocan City
Roxas Boulevard EDSA Flyover (SB) Bridge Deck, Pasay City
EDSA (NB), from Taft Avenue – MRT Station (Outer Lane), Pasay City
EDSA (SB), after Malibay Bridge (Inner Lane), Pasay City
McArthur Highway Southbound, Malabon City
To avoid inconvenience, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority advises the public to seek alternative routes during the ongoing road reblocking operations.
Stay informed, plan your travel accordingly, and exercise caution while driving in the affected areas. Your safety and cooperation are highly appreciated. (ai/mnm)
By Benjamin Cuaresma
MAKATI CITY — On Saturday (July 22, 2023), a militant group from Southern Tagalog held a protest rally outside the Chinese Embassy in Makati City, voicing their strong opposition to what they perceive as Chinese interference in the country’s sovereignty.
The demonstrators passionately decried China’s alleged unlawful encroachment upon the nation’s sovereign territory, expressing particular concern over China’s presence, aggressive actions, and harassment against fishermen and the Philippine Coast Guard in the West Philippine Sea.
Tensions escalated during the demonstration, leading to confrontations between the police and the protesting group along Gil Puyat Avenue, where the Chinese Embassy is located.
In a symbolic gesture of dissent, some members of the militant group set a Chinese flag ablaze, symbolizing their resistance to China’s persistent and unauthorized activities within the Philippines’ economic zone in the West Philippine Sea.
Furthermore, the Manila Police District (MPD) took measures to block certain demonstrators from the Bigkisan Caravan who were en route to the US Embassy along UN Ave. (ai/mnm)
MANILA – Esports has been added to the list of events to be played in this year’s Palarong Pambansa in Marikina.
No less than Marikina City Mayor Marcy Teodoro made the announcement during the national meet’s press launch at the Marikina Sports Center on Friday.
Esports has been assigned as a demonstration sport.
Only one title, Mobile Legends Bang Bang (MLBB), will be played in the inaugural Palaro esports tournament.
“We chose the most accessible game for the Palaro. Most of the Filipinos right now use their mobile phones to actually play the game, so Mobile Legends muna ang ni-recommend namin sa board (so it is the first game we recommended to the board),” said Marlon Marcelo, the executive director of the Philippine Esports Organization (PESO).
PESO has been tapped to help the Marikina City government, the Department of Education, and the Philippine Sports Commission in organizing the Palaro MLBB event.
Marcelo then bared that some other esports titles, such as Defense of the Ancients (DOTA) 2 and Valorant, could be added to the fray once esports becomes an official part of the Palaro, probably as soon as next year.
Cebu City, Antique, and Negros Occidental are bidding for the hosting rights for the 2024 Palaro, but considering their economic advancements, Cebu and Negros Occidental’s capital city of Bacolod could provide bigger venues for the esports event should more titles be played.
For now, according to Marcelo, the goal is the successful staging of the 2023 Palaro MLBB event.
“Since this is a demo sport, we would want to make sure that everything is smooth as possible on the first try. Mas madali kasing i-organize yung MLBB (It’s easier to organize an MLBB event), to be honest, just because Valorant and DOTA 2 require PCs (personal computers) and a very stable Internet connection, so it’s really one of the optics na kailangang ayusin (that we have to fix),” he said.
While the eligibility guidelines have yet to be placed for the Palaro MLBB tournament, Marcelo said pros are not allowed to join even if they are still studying in high school.
“I would say that this is a very even playing field,” he said. “This is a very big step for Philippine esports kasi recognized na siya ng (because it is now recognized by the) Palaro.” (PNA)
MANILA – Kurt Reyson stepped up for Letran as he sparked and eventually capped an 11-0 run that gave the Knights an 85-84 win against the San Beda Red Lions in the Bola.TV AsiaBasket Las Piñas Championship at the city’s Villar Coliseum on Friday night.
With the Knights down 10 with 4:48 remaining, Reyson buried back-to-back triples that began their comeback against the Red Lions.
He eventually made two pressure-packed free throws with 44.3 seconds left to give Letran the lead.
San Beda still had a chance to win but Pao Javillonar blocked RC Calimag’s first layup attempt.
Calimag still got the ball while falling and found Ronrei Tolentino open, but Tolentino blew his layup as time ran out, allowing the Knights to escape.
Reyson led Letran with 19 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, and one steal, while Javillonar added 14 points, eight rebounds, one block, and two steals.
Bryan Sajonia led San Beda with 25 points, two rebounds, two assists, and two blocks, while Tolentino added 17 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, and three steals.
The other games saw Corsa ripping College of St. Benilde (CSB) apart, 89-78; Far Eastern University (FEU) edging Sanzar, 81-75; and Ateneo dumping Uratex, 96-63.
Justine Sanchez showed what he is capable of once he joins CSB next year by leading the way for Corsa with a solid all-around game of 21 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks.
Corsa ramped up its defense on CSB by holding it to a combined 30 points in the second and third quarters after conceding 27 in the first.
Corsa pulled away from CSB in the second after dropping 30 points for a 56-44 halftime lead.
Ahron Estacio added 17 points, three rebounds, six assists, three steals, and one block, while Gerald Anderson contributed 13 points, five rebounds, two assists, and two steals for Corsa.
Will Gozum announced his return to CSB with 18 points, seven rebounds, and one steal.
Meanwhile, the Tamaraws spoiled Adeshokan Odou’s monster game for the Fire Tigers as Xyrus Torres and Cholo Anonuevo led the final charge within the last 4:55 even as Royce Alforque and Patrick Sleat made some contributions in keeping the Fire Tigers at bay in the end.
Torres finished with 24 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, and one steal; Alforque added 13 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and one steal; Sleat had 12 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, and one steal; and Anonuevo chipped in 11 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists, and one steal for FEU.
Odou finished with 28 points, 24 rebounds, one assist, one block, and one steal, while fellow import Salomon Kone added 16 points, 20 rebounds, two assists, and one block for Sanzar.
Roger Ondoa led the locals with 10 points, 12 rebounds, one steal, and one block.
In the third game, Ateneo took over in the last three periods to pull away for good after Uratex kept in step with them in the opening quarter.
Kai Ballungay led Ateneo with 15 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block, while Mason Amos added 12 points, three rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and one steal.
Jason Credo and Joseph Obasa each tallied 11 markers with Obasa also grabbing 11 boards for his own double-double.
Mike Harry Nzeusseu put up 23 points, seven rebounds, and two assists, while Bam-Bam Gamalinda chipped in 16 points and five rebounds for Uratex.
The scores:
First Game
CORSA 89 – Sanchez 21, Estacio 17, Anderson 13, Ynot 10, Cunanan 8, Ndong 6, Pagulayan 6, Acosta 6, Lepalam 2, Ortega 0.
CSB 78 – Gozum 18, Corteza 16, Carlos 13, Sangco 7, Mara 6, Jarque 4, Oczon 4, Jalalon 3, Flores 3, Davis 2, Cajucom 2, Marasigan 0, Marcos 0, Nayve 0, Morales 0.
Quarters: 26-27, 56-44, 70-57, 89-78
Second Game
FEU 81 – Torres 24, Alforque 13, Sleat 12, Anonuevo 11, Fatty 9, Tempra 6, Ona 4, Competente 2, Montemayor 0, Bagunu 0, Felipe 0, Devares 0.
SANZAR 75 – Odou 28, Kone 16, Ondoa 10, Torres 8, Kawamura 7, Mailim 4, Abaoag 2, Calapine 0, Lanzar 0, Famaranco 0, Obuyes 0.
Quarters: 18-19, 43-37, 59-53, 81-75
Third Game
ATENEO 96 – Ballungay 15, Amos 12, Credo 11, Obasa 11, Gomez 10, Koon 8, Garcia 8, Brown 6, Lazaro 6, Quitevis 5, Chiu 4, Bongo 0, Espinosa 0.
URATEX 63 – Nzeusseu 23, Gamalinda 16, Bragais 10, Adeogun 9, Pasco 2, Pardo 2, Salamat 1, Rosagas 0, Gil 0, Buyco 0, Gotladera 0.
Quarters: 17-17, 45-28, 70-46, 96-63
Fourth Game
LETRAN 85 – Reyson 19, Javillonar 14, Ariar 13, Galvez 8, Fajardo 6, Monje 6, Nunag 6, Tolentino 4, Santos 4, Jumao-As 4, Guarino 1, Go 0.
SAN BEDA 84 – Sajonia 25, Tolentino 17, RC Calimag 14, Alloso 11, Ri. Calimag 7, Lina 4, Lopez 3, Songcuya 2, Lecciones 1, Etulle 0, Dimaculangan 0, Peregrina 0.
Quarters: 26-29, 48-58, 65-74, 85-84 (PNA)
MANILA – Olympian Jasmine Alkhaldi and US-based Jarod Hatch will kick off the Philippine campaign at the 20th World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan on Sunday.
Alkhaldi, a veteran of the 2012 (London) and 2016 (Rio de Janeiro) Olympics, will compete in the women’s 100m butterfly while Hatch will see action in the men’s 50m butterfly.
Thanya Angelyn Dela Cruz, Xandi Chua, and Jerard Dominic Jacinto are also part of Team Philippines coached by Ryan Paolo Arabejo, who also represented the country at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
They will aim for the highest World Aquatics points and boost their chances to make the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Dela Cruz (women’s 100m breaststroke) and Jacinto (men’s 100m backstroke) are scheduled to compete on July 24; Hatch (100m butterfly) and Chua (women’s 200m backstroke) on July 28; Alkhaldi (50m freestyle), Dela Cruz (50m breaststroke) and Jacinto (50m backstroke) on July 29; and Chua (400m Individual Medley) on July 30.
All five are medalists at the 2023 Cambodia Southeast Asian (SEA) Games where the swimming team produced two golds, six silvers and eight bronzes.
Chua ruled the 200m backstroke (2:13.20), setting new national and SEA Games records. She also took the silver medal in the 4×100 freestyle relay (with Alkhaldi, Miranda Renner, and Teia Isabella Salvino), and the bronze medal in the 400m Individual Medley (4:52.08) and 4x200m freestyle relay (with Alkhaldi, Salvino, and Chloe Isleta).
Jacinto captured two silvers — 50m backstroke with a national record of 25.56 seconds and mixed 4x100m medley relay (with Alkhaldi, Hatch, and Angelyn Cacho) — and a bronze in the 100m backstroke (55.99s).
Alkhaldi bagged a silver in the 100m freestyle (56.12s) and bronze medals in 50m (27.02s) and 100m (1:00.45) butterfly.
Hatch added two more bronzes to his medal haul, posting national records in the 50m (23.89s) and 100m (52.91s) butterfly events.
Chua and Hatch are first-timers in the Fukuoka World Championships, which is a long course (50-meter pool) edition.
“I never stopped training. After the SEA Games, I went back to Australia to continue my training with coach Michal Skrodzki of Nunawading Swimming Club for the Fukuoka World Championships as well as the Asian Games (in September),” Chua told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Saturday.
Chua is a protégé of Carlos “Pinky” Brosas, who represented the Philippines at the 1972 Munich Olympics.
“It’s my first time to compete in a World Championship event which is, by far, the highest level of competition I qualified for in my 18 years of swimming. I’m just really so excited to meet and race alongside the best swimmers in the world,” said the 21-year-old BS Entrepreneurship student from De La Salle University.
Batangas 1st District Rep. Eric Buhain, secretary of the Philippine Swimming, Inc., said the presence of the world’s top swimmers makes the Fukuoka Worlds a fierce competition.
“But our athletes are out to experience the atmosphere in a high-level tournament, try to improve their personal best time, and sharpen their skills,” the former Philippine Sports Commission chair and champion swimmer, said in a statement. (PNA)
WASHINGTON – Former US President Donald Trump said Friday he would require the death penalty for “anyone caught trafficking children across our border” if he is elected back to the White House next year.
In a campaign video, Trump said under his leadership, the US did “more than any administration in history to combat human trafficking and to end modern-day slavery.”
“When I am back in the White House, I will immediately end the Biden border nightmare that traffickers are using to exploit vulnerable women and children,” Trump said in the video, vowing also to wage war on cartels.
The former president, who is seeking another term in the 2024 race, said he would put an end to child trafficking “by returning all trafficked children to their families in their home countries without delay,” by invoking Title 42, a public health order he introduced during his tenure that allowed officials to turn away migrants on the grounds of preventing the spread of Covid-19.
“I will urge Congress to ensure that anyone caught trafficking children across our border receives the death penalty immediately,” he added. (Anadolu)
SANTA ROSA, Laguna – The unemployment rate in the Calabarzon Region remained relatively low at 5.5 percent as of the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) survey in April.
The same survey also showed that the five-province region had an underemployment rate of 13.3 percent.
The numbers will continue to improve with the opening of yet another digital infrastructure hub here, the Vitro Sta. Rosa Data Center of ePLDT, a subsidiary of telecommunications firm PLDT.
In an email to the Philippine News Agency (PNA), Gary Ignacio, ePLDT’s chief data center officer, said aside from new jobs, the facility “is expected to generate economic opportunities by pushing land values and bringing in additional revenue streams for our host community.”
“As a data center designed to cater to hyperscalers, VSR is likely to attract significant investments from international companies,” he said.
Ignacio said the data center is already bringing new employment opportunities as it is being built.
He said it will continue until it becomes fully operational in 2024, requiring skilled personnel to manage and maintain its facilities.
Hyperscalers are large cloud service providers that can provide services such as computing and storage at enterprise scale.
Meanwhile, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines urged President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to pioneer measures safeguarding the rights of workers to freedom of association in the modern digital economy.
“Digital transformation ushers in new, higher quality, and more meaningful jobs through improved productivity due to modern technologies. Massive upskilling and reskilling of workers is key to seizing these new job opportunities,” the union said in a Friday statement. (PNA)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is looking to further stimulate economic growth through big-ticket transport infrastructure projects that are effective at creating jobs.
Before Marcos’ 2nd State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, the Department of Trransportation (DOTr) bared the status of these projects, with 71 infrastructure projects and a cumulative cost of more than PHP4 trillion – all approved by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
In his speech at the A Year After Build Better More event of the British Chamber of Commerce – Philippines on July 13, DOTr Undersecretary For Legal Affairs Rainier Yebra said these projects are “bound to stir the status quo” once completed.
Transport is key to development and good quality of life and so improving public transport is essential to economic growth.
Airport privatization
He noted that to improve airport operations for both passengers and airlines, the planned privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is ongoing.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is helping identify the “most qualified company or consortium to manage, operate, upgrade, and modernize the NAIA.”
“Despite structural limitations, we believe Manila’s main gateway can still be improved using the latest airport operations technology,” Yebra said.
On the other hand, he said, the New Manila International Airport (NMIA) in Bulacan – meant to help decongest NAIA and complement operations of the Clark International Airport (CRK) — is more than three-fourths complete.
“We expect structures to rise starting the second quarter of 2024. This airport will cost San Miguel PHP735 billion to build,” he said.
Yebra noted that the CRK and the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) are “successful models of airport privatization” that they are hoping to emulate in several other airports in the country.
“We are planning to privatize 10 other provincial airports, beginning with Bohol-Panglao airport in the Visayas, the Bicol International Airport in Luzon, and Laguindingan airport in Mindanao,” he said.
The Sangley Airport in Cavite will soon be developed by the provincial government, with SPIA Development Consortium tapped for its redevelopment to complement NAIA.
“Another four regional airports will be improved and transferred to new locations. These are in Dumaguete, Siargao, Zamboanga, and Masbate,” he said.
To date, Yebra said, the country has a total of 90 airports – 45 having commercial operations, nine are international gateways, and 25 are night-rated.
Fewer cars, better roads
In the road sector, he said the government’s goal is to “address traffic congestion” by shifting focus on public transport and other alternative modes of transport such as trains, buses, taxis, bicycles, and motorcycle taxis.
A prime example, he said, is the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) Busway, which serves an average of more than 450,000 passengers per day, with 550 buses currently authorized to operate on the exclusive lane.
“From July last year to March 2023, more than 79 million riders have used the Busway. The Busway, being free from traffic, makes travel along EDSA predictable,” he said.
To complement the busway and other modes of public transport, the upcoming EDSA Greenways Project will provide commuters with a 5-km. elevated walkway along the thoroughfare, he said.
“The covered green walkways will connect MRT-3 stations to other modes of transport,” he said.
Its first phase will cover four areas – Balintawak and Cubao in Quezon City, Guadalupe in Makati, and Taft Station in Pasay.
It aims to build new walkways and improve existing pedestrian facilities to ensure accessibility to persons with disabilities, the elderly, and children.
He said to replicate the success of the EDSA Busway in Cebu and Davao, the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) would provide a mode of transport that is “fast, comfortable, cost-effective, efficient, and generates fewer emissions.”
The Cebu BRT is a 13.8-km. segregated lane with 17 bus stations, one terminal, and one depot.
On the other hand, he said the Davao High Priority Bus Project is an “improved version” of the Cebu BRT and consists of a core bus network of more than 137 km. and a feeder network of more than 500 km.
“Recently, we signed a one-billion-dollar loan with the ADB for the public transport modernization program in Davao City, including the bus rapid transit,” he said.
Meanwhile, the government’s Active Transport Program, responsible for putting up protected bike lanes and similar pedestrian and public transport infrastructures, has so far put up 564 km. of bike lanes throughout the country, with a plan of establishing 470 km. more to be constructed this year.
Under the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program (PUVMP), which calls for a shift to modern eco-friendly vehicles, the DOTr has looked into “preserving the iconic jeepney” through talks with PUV manufacturers who agreed to build modern PUVs that still look like traditional jeepneys.
“These use environment-friendly Euro-4 or Euro-5 engines or even electric motors,” he said.
To date, he said a total of 6,470 modern PUVs are plying 405 different routes.
Railways
To address traffic congestion and provide increased passenger and cargo capacity, Yebra said the government is accelerating the development and construction of big-ticket rail projects.
The Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) Cavite Extension is expected to be partially operational by September next year and is seen to reduce travel time between Baclaran and Sucat to just 10 minutes.
“The line extension increases ridership from 500,000 passengers to 800,000,” he said.
One of the flagship projects of the DOTr is the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), a 147-km.-long train system starting at Clark, Pampanga, and will end at Calamba, Laguna.
Once completed, it is capable of accommodating 849,000 passengers a day and will reduce travel time from Clark Airport to Calamba to less than two hours.
The Metro Manila Subway, another flagship project, has dug more than 200 meters from the subway’s first station in Valenzuela.
“The subway will run from Valenzuela to Bicutan with a spur line to NAIA Terminal 3. It stretches for 33 km. with 17 stations. It can accommodate as many as 519,000 passengers a day,” he said.
The Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7), which will run from North Avenue in Quezon City to San Jose del Monte in Bulacan, already has 36 brand-new train sets capable of serving about 300,000 passengers per day.
Other major rail projects, he said, are undergoing feasibility studies or are seeking NEDA approval, such as the Metro Rail Transit Line 4 (MRT-4), a 10-station elevated railway that will stretch for 12.7 km. from Ortigas Center in San Juan to Taytay, Rizal.
“We are looking for private investors for other rail projects, such as the PNR North Long-Haul that will link Metro Manila to the Ilocos and Cagayan regions; the South Long-Haul Project that goes all the way to Bicol; the Subic-Clark Railway; and the Mindanao Railway Project, a hybrid passenger and freight line that will be the first railway in Mindanao,” he said.
Other rail projects in the pipeline are the MRT-10 and MRT-11, the LRT-6 in Cavite, a Cebu Monorail, and a Metro Manila Urban Cable Car project.
Maritime Transport
The DOTr and its attached agencies are also tasked with ensuring safe maritime transport and protecting the country’s assets in its territorial waters.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has increased its ranks to more than 25,000 personnel and has acquired additional air assets, vessels, small crafts, and land mobility vehicles in its bid to modernize its fleet.
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), tasked with monitoring Philippine-registered vessels and seafarers, has secured the recognition of the European Commission of the certificates of training of Filipino marine officers, allowing their continued work on board European-flagged vessels.
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), meanwhile, has recently completed the country’s biggest passenger terminal building at Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro capable of accommodating more than 3,500 passengers a day.
The project is only one of several in the 745 seaports the PPA is in charge of throughout the country.
These projects, he said, require “massive funding” and thus require the cooperation of various stakeholders in the transport industry.
“We will need the support of different sectors. We are open to partnering with the private sector, organizations, even foreign governments,” he said. (PNA)
MANILA – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) needs all hands on deck in improving governance trough digitalization.
The E-Governance Act or House Bill No. 7327, a consolidation of 21 related measures, was highlighted by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as one of his priority measures in his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) last year.
The bill was approved by the House of Representatives on March 6.
Marcos’ marching order was to “accelerate the buildup of digital infrastructure in the country,” that through information and communications technology, Filipinos have a better and efficient government that is easier to transact with.
During his presentation at the “A Year After Build Better More” event of the British Chamber of Commerce–Philippines on July 13, DICT chief of staff for the Office of E-Government TR Mon Gutierrez gave an update on the six priority projects of the DICT under e-governance — eLGU, eTravel, eGovPay, eGovCloud, eReport, and eGov PH app.
The eLGU is a one-stop system that combines all local government unit (LGU) services such as business permit licensing, notice of violations, a notification system, community tax, health certificates, local civil registry, business tax, and real property tax.
“Its objective is to provide Filipinos with a comprehensive online platform that serves as a centralized hub for LGU system automation and e-services, offering a diverse array of services. This platform is designed to streamline the process of doing business, ensuring convenience and efficiency,” Gutierrez said.
To date, about 210 LGUs have already implemented the Business Permits and Licensing System (BPLS) under eLGU, 450 have ongoing implementation, and 82 have requested for its implementation.
On the other hand, the eTravel system is a one-stop electronic travel declaration system available in 10 international airports and five international seaports. It has so far served around 7.3 million passengers.
With eTravel, he said passengers would need only need to complete their declaration in a single app versus having to fill up multiple documents in the past such as the arrival card, local airport or seaport forms, tourism form, customs form, and the health declaration form when travel restrictions were at its peak due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Meanwhile, the eGovPay is a secured one-stop government payment gateway available for users of digital payment systems such as online and typical banks, e-wallets, ecards, cash payment systems, and kiosks.
“eGovPay helps government simplify payment processing. It reduces cost while enhancing customer experience and makes it easier to reconcile transactions due to improved data management as it supports a broad range of payment methods,” Gutierrez said.
The service, he said, would provide easy integration, automated reports, transparency, and reduced costs.
The eGovCloud, Gutierrez said, is the government’s cloud-first policy that promotes cloud computing as the preferred technology for government administration and the delivery of government services.
Instead of government agencies having to use multiple data centers, they will instead have access to a centralized cloud system that is standardized, cost-effective, secure, efficient, compliant, and will allow for better decision-making.
The eReport, or the People’s Feedback Mechanism mobile app, allows the public to file a report or feedback to the government.
The app allows users to choose from eight categories — red tape, overpricing, child abuse, women abuse, accident, fire, crime, scam, and other concerns.
Following Marcos’ approval in April, the DICT began work on a single operating system that aims to address current challenges in government services such as excessive forms and documents, costly, multiple and complex websites, time-consuming, and long lines.
From 2024 to 2026, it would include other systems such as eTourism, eBusiness, eHealth, eCommerce, eServices, eApostille, eFinance, eLearning, ePassport, and eTransport.
To date, the culmination of the single operating system is the eGov PH app, a mobile app that allows the public to access government services and information and is available from the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
The app is the Philippines’ first one-stop-shop platform for local and national government services that will streamline processes, transactions, and bring a total ease of doing business. (PNA)
MANILA – The Philippine government would not allow members of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to come to the country to conduct an investigation into the drug war waged by former president Rodrigo Duterte, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said on Saturday.
DOJ Senior Undersecretary Raul Vasquez said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has made a firm stance to end dealings with the ICC after its latest move to reject the Philippine government appeal to suspend its investigation.
“Dahil nasa investigation stage pa lang, gusto po nilang mag-umpisa dito para mag-imbestiga. At gusto nilang pumunta dito (Because they are still in the investigation stage, they want to start the investigation here. They want to come here),” Vasquez said during the Saturday News Forum at Dapo Restaurant in Quezon City.
“Sa ngayon, desisyon niya (Marcos) ay hindi na makipag-engage sa ICC (As of now, his decision is to disengage from the ICC). That means to say we won’t coordinate and we would not allow them to come here as ICC.”
He said the ICC prosecutors could visit the country, “subject to limitations.”
Vasquez also warned that ICC members who would attempt to enter the country to conduct an investigation might be charged with a crime of usurpation of authority.
“So, they can come here. But before they can even come here, they have to go through the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) under international relations protocols. Hindi po sila puwedeng pumunta dito nang basta-basta (They cannot just come here),” he said.
Quizzed about the possibility that the ICC might issue an arrest warrant against Duterte and other personalities linked to the drug war, Vasquez emphasized that the ICC has “no enforcement mechanism.”
The ICC, he said, would need the help of its member-states to order the arrest of those involved in the Philippines’ anti-narcotics campaign.
“Pupunta sila dito, sinong lalapitan nila? Pulis, Armed Forces, DOJ? Eh hindi na nga kami nag-i-engage eh (If they come here, from whom would they ask for help? The police, Armed Forces, DOJ? We would no longer engage with them),” Vasquez said.
“Wala naman silang otoridad na gumawa ng mga bagay-bagay tungkol sa pag-imbestiga (They do not have the authority to conduct an investigation) for example because that is a mandate of our law enforcement agency. They’re not members of the law enforcement agency.”
He pointed out that the ICC need not interfere with the Philippines’ affairs because the country has an “existing and operating” justice system and accountability mechanism.
The Marcos administration, he said, is ready to accommodate those who will testify on the supposed human rights violations associated with the war on illegal drugs.
“Unfortunately, mula noon, last year hanggang ngayon, kami po ay naghihintay pa rin para dumulog sa amin ang sinumang mayroong impormasyon (since last year, we have been waiting for anyone who could provide us with vital information),” Vasquez said.
In an interview in Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay on Friday, Marcos said the Philippines would no longer communicate with the ICC following the latter’s decision to go ahead with its investigation despite an appeal to suspend by the government. (PNA)