ANKARA – FIFA on Thursday extends its “deepest condolences” over a shooting in New Zealand hours before the start of the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
“FIFA extends its deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives following the incident which occurred this morning in Auckland, New Zealand, and our thoughts and prayers remain with those who have been injured in this tragic incident,” world football’s governing body said on Twitter.
Following the incident, FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke to New Zealand authorities, who told him the incident “was not related to football operations,” and the opening match of the World Cup at Auckland’s Eden Park will take place as planned, FIFA added.
“The participating teams in close proximity to this incident are being supported in relation to any impact that may have taken place,” it said.
At least two people were killed and at least six were injured, including a police officer, on Thursday when a man opened fire at a construction site in Auckland, according to local media.
The male shooter also died, said the New Zealand police.
Police launched an investigation into the incident and urged the public to steer clear of the area.
New Zealand takes opener
New Zealand beat Norway 1-0 in the opening game as the co-hosts bagged their first win in the Women’s World Cup’s history.
In the early minutes of the second half at Auckland’s Eden Park, New Zealand forward Hannah Wilkinson scored in style in the box after quick teamwork.
Wilkinson, 31, has scored in three different editions –2011, 2015 and 2023.
In the second half, Norway’s Tuva Hansen had an effort from distance to hit the woodwork but New Zealand goalkeeper Victoria Esson made a fingertip save.
In the 89th minute, New Zealand were awarded a penalty after a VAR review for a handball. However, Ria Percival hit the goalpost to keep Norway’s hopes alive.
Norway’s Guro Reiten lost a chance in the box in injury time, as New Zealand took a historic win.
In their next fixture in Group A, New Zealand will face the Philippines on July 25 in Wellington.
On the same day, Norway will play Switzerland in Hamilton.
Before the kickoff, both New Zealand and Norway players, and the fans in the stadium observed a minute of silence for the victims of the Auckland shooting.
The 2023 Women’s World Cup will run through Aug. 20. (Anadolu)
TORONTO – Disrespect for holy books and places of worship is “unacceptable,” UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said Thursday, in response to the desecration of the Quran in Sweden.
“What we need is mutual respect. I think we’ve been very clear that the desecration of holy books, the desecration of places of worship is unacceptable,” he said at a press briefing, noting that such actions have historically been used as a provocation.
He said people should respect one another’s religions, refrain from taking matters into their own hands, and avoid committing any acts of violence.
Early Thursday morning, a crowd of Iraqis stormed Sweden’s Embassy in Baghdad and set it ablaze in protest of the June 28 burning of a copy of the Quran, Islam’s holy book, last month by Salwan Momika, an Iraq-born man who now lives in Sweden.
The Foreign Ministry of Sweden condemned the attack on its embassy and called it a “serious violation” of the Vienna Convention.
Many states, including the US, Russia, Türkiye, Iraq, Pakistan, Indonesia, Afghanistan, and other Islamic countries, decried the attack.
Sweden also launched an investigation into the incident.
Following the storming of Stockholm’s diplomatic mission, Momika again desecrated a copy of the Quran, stepping on it and the Iraqi flag in front of Iraq’s embassy in Sweden.
Thursday’s incident happened after Iraq warned Sweden it could break diplomatic ties should a similar incident happen again. Baghdad went through with the action and declared Sweden’s envoy persona non grata after the holy book was desecrated for a second time in a month. (Anadolu)
ANKARA – Nearly 50 people were killed and thousands were displaced as week-long heavy rains and floods caused massive damage to properties across South Korea, authorities said.
According to details released by the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters on Thursday, some 2,278 public and private properties were damaged across the nation during the ongoing rains and floods that hit the country last week, Seoul-based Yonhap News reported.
So far, 33,000 hectares (81,545 acres) of farmland had been flooded while 797,000 livestock had been killed.
The torrential rains and floods also left 46 people dead while four people are missing in different parts of the country, including a Marine who lost his life on Wednesday after being swept away by flood during search and rescue operations in Yecheon County, 161 kilometers (100 miles) southeast of Seoul.
Over 3,100 people displaced across the country are still living in shelter camps, according to the report.
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on Thursday visited the North Chungcheong Province where at least 14 people lost their lives in the central city of Cheongju when a nearby river overflowed after an embankment was brought down by rising water levels.
“I feel heavy responsibility for the regrettable deaths,” the agency quoted Han as saying.
The government has also deployed some 10,000 troops across the country for search and rescue operations to help the local administration where rains caused floods and landslides. (Anadolu)
MANILA – The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has vowed to bridge financial literacy gap among Filipinos by educating them on the importance of being “financially healthy”.
During the celebration of the 45th anniversary of BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) Foundation, BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat underscored the crucial role of financial education in building a sustainable and equitable financial system.
Romulo-Puyat said that through financial education, Filipinos will be empowered to be financially healthy —one who can meet the financial needs and obligations, absorb financial shocks, reach financial goals, and achieve financial control and security.
“These empowerment traits are the hallmarks of (a) financially healthy system,” she said during the event in Makati City on Thursday.
However, the Philippines is in the bottom 30 out of 144 countries in terms of financial literacy according to a global study, while a BSP survey showed that only 1 percent of surveyed Filipino adults correctly answered questions on financial literacy.
“Considering these gaps, how can we further promote financial health? The answer lies in financial education. Financial education is a systematic process of acquiring financial literacy that enables individuals to optimize financial services and better manage their financial values. Financial education forms part of the BSP’s broader objective of building an inclusive financial system towards sustainable and equitable national development,” the central bank executive added.
Romulo-Puyat cited BSP’s initiatives to bridge financial literacy gap among Filipinos.
First, by collaborating with industry partners like BPI Foundation in equipping Filipinos with a strong foundation in personal finance, it enables them to make informed financial decisions, and utilize a wide range of financial services effectively.
This helps individuals to manage debt, build reserves, and prudently plan for their financial futures.
Second, the BSP partners with the public and private sector in producing and distributing learning modules for educators and learners that will be used in regular training programs of over 800,000 teaching and non-teaching personnel.
The BSP also tied up with BPI Foundation in developing personal finance course modules for college students.
Third, it conducts seminars for teachers to provide them essential financial knowledge in teaching education financial literacy among students.
The BSP-BPI Personal Financial Management seminars have already reached 5,000 teachers in Metro Manila.
Lastly, the BSP has developed a future-oriented approach by launching Personal Finance 101, a course module designed to develop the financial decision-making skills of college students before they join the workforce.
Private sector’s support
BPI chief executive officer Jose Teodoro Limcaoco told reporters on the sidelines of the event that the entire banking industry is supportive of the government’s push for financial literacy.
“The new (BSP) Governor (Eli Remolona Jr.) continues on that track and tries to get more people into the banking system, to make payments more digital because it allows more people into the banking system. The whole industry is supportive of that, and I think we will continue to work with BSP to bring more people in(to) the financial system,” Limcaoco added. (PNA)
MANILA – The Philippine economy is likely to have grown by 6 percent in the second quarter of the year, driven by the growth in consumer spending, an economist said on Friday.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) that the growth in consumer spending could be attributed to the lower individual income tax rates implemented earlier this year.
“Lower individual income tax rates starting January 2023 for most income brackets as part of the TRAIN Law, could lead to increased consumer spending, which accounts for at least 75 percent of the economy, and, in turn, lead to faster economic growth,” Ricafort said.
The country’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 6.4 percent in the first quarter of the year.
Economic managers earlier set a 6 percent to 7 percent GDP growth for this year.
Ricafort projected that the lower end of the government’s target could be hit this year.
“Philippine GDP growth estimate could normalize to around 6 percent in 2023 and beyond amid the country’s favorable demographics,” he said, adding that this would make the Philippines one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia.
He added that measures to further reopen the economy, which led to increased sales and employment, also “overshadowed the risks of higher prices.”
Ricafort said economic growth drivers for this year include the high overseas Filipino workers’ remittances, further increase in government infrastructure spending, continued growth in business process outsourcing, and resumption of face-to-face schooling and foreign tourism.
Other drivers of growth, he said, are the resurgence in mining activities, especially green minerals used in the global supply chain for batteries, electric vehicles, renewable power, and the intensification of productivity in agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and other priority sectors to help reduce poverty and help achieve middle-income status for the country in the coming years.
Ricafort said the delivery of more reform measures, especially fiscal and other economic reform measures that further ease limits on foreign ownership, would help encourage the entry of more foreign investment.
He said this would “help boost market confidence and lead to the creation of more jobs and other economic opportunities that would also help the economy recover further from the pandemic.” (PNA)
MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday issued a certificate of the proclamation to Erwin Tulfo as the third nominee of the Anti-Crime and Terrorism Community Involvement and Support (ACT-CIS) party-list.
“Comelec Commissioner Socorro B. Inting officially proclaims Mr. Erwin T. Tulfo as the third nominee of ACT-CIS Party List, following the Comelec en banc’s decision, dismissing the petition for disqualification of Mr. Tulfo,” the Comelec said on a Facebook post.
Tulfo, former secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, replaced Jeffrey Soriano who resigned as a third nominee in February this year.
With the Comelec certification, Tulfo shall serve as a member of the House of Representatives until June 30, 2025.
Tulfo was joined by ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Edvic Yap, Benguet Rep. Eric Yap and former Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo, among others during his proclamation.
“So somebody, by the grace of God, someone questioned the legality because finally, this will be all over with. Comelec was able to answer all these doubts, all these questions. Now that is already behind us. I would like to thank everybody and now my work begins,” he said.
Tulfo is expected to begin his tour of duty as a congressman on July 24 when the 19th Congress opens its second regular session. (PNA)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the National Security Council (NSC) and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) to make sure that upholding the Philippines’ interest and ensuring the Filipinos’ security remain the government’s top priorities.
Marcos gave the directive, as he joined the joint anniversary celebration of the NSC and the NICA at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City on Thursday.
“We know that you are the silent guardians who protect us against all manner of national threats, the steadfast vanguards who keep our enemies at bay, and the faithful watchers ensuring that we do not veer to disorder and to chaos,” he told the NSC and NICA.
“With this, let us continue to prepare for the tasks that lie ahead and continue to uphold our national interest and ensuring the security of the Filipino public and that should remain at the top of all of our priorities,” Marcos added.
The NSC and the NICA are celebrating their 73rd and 74th founding anniversaries, respectively.
Marcos hailed the two agencies’ “boundless service,” being at the forefront of protecting national security for over seven decades.
Despite this, Marcos acknowledged that the country continues to face pressing issues of national concern, including threats to territorial integrity and sovereignty; terrorism and local communist insurgency; threats in cybersecurity; and dangers of climate change.
Marcos stressed the vital role of the NSC and the NICA in ensuring that the country remains on top of its national security concerns, as well as of other global developments and shifts.
“I know that you are not often credited nor celebrated enough due to the nature of your work and the sensitivity of the jobs that you hold. Such is the nature of the clandestine services. But please know that your brilliant handiwork, courageous grit, and selfless sacrifice are well-recognized by those who know of the hard work that you have put in to keep our country safe,” he said.
Marcos said he would continue to rely on the NSC and NICA, especially when the path to national security intertwines with economic and social transformation.
Established by virtue of Executive Order 330 issued on July 1, 1950, the NSC is the principal advisory body on the proper coordination and integration of plans and policies affecting national security, consisting of two distinct bodies such as the Council Proper and the NSC Secretariat.
The NICA, established on July 1, 1949 through Executive Order 235, is the central coordinating agency in charge of integrating government activities related to national intelligence and preparing intelligence estimates on local and foreign situations for the formulation of national policies on the matter. (PNA)
MANILA — The inauguration of the three core projects under the Improving Growth Corridors in Mindanao Road Sector Project (IGCMRSP) worth PHP25.26 billion in Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay will drive economic development in the region, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Friday.
In a keynote speech during the inaugural ceremony, Marcos said the completion of the three road projects is a testament to the government’s commitment to push for infrastructure development beyond the country’s metropolitan areas.
“After four years since it started finally, we are here to open the three core projects that originally formed the backbone of the IGCMRSP. I’d like to note that these projects have expanded from their original scope to include additional road and bridge developments across the Zamboanga Peninsula out to Tawi-Tawi,” Marcos said.
“It (inauguration of the road projects) will also amplify the effects of our economic and peace and order intiatives here in Mindanao,” he added.
The IGCMRSP is projected to ramp up infrastructure development and improve people’s access to basic social services in the Zamboanga Peninsula.
The three core projects include the Alicia-Malangas Road and Lutiman-Guicam-Olutanga Road both in Zamboanga Sibugay and the Tampilisan-Sandayong Road, located in Zamboanga del Norte.
The road projects comprise a total road length of 69.07 kilometers including 11 bridges.
The improvements consist of paving earth and gravel roads, replacing damaged road sections, widening existing roads, and replacing and strengthening existing bridges.
The roads were designed to strengthen resilience against climate change through slope protections and improved drainage structures.
Marcos thanked the Asian Development Bank and other private partners for being “steadfast and longstanding” partners in improving the critical infrastructure in the country.
He ensured that improved physical connectivity “will always be a vital facet of our development efforts.”
“That is why this government is more determined than ever to pursue projects that will recognize our dream of a stronger and more interconnected Philippines,” Marcos said. “We will continue to build roads, bridges, ports and airports all over the country so we can bring Filipinos closer together.” (PNA)
MANILA – Senators Ramon Revilla Jr. and Francis Tolentino on Friday said they are looking forward to hearing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s plans to further tame inflation and address the high prices of basic goods in his second State of the Nation Address (SONA).
In a statement, Revilla expressed optimism that President Marcos will focus on the issues that need urgent attention.
“Katulad ng presyo ng mga bilihin, pagtaas ng sahod ng mga manggagawa, pagpaparami pa ng disenteng trabaho, paglutas sa problema ng kahirapan, at pagpapaigi ng edukasyon (Like the prices of goods, salary hike for workers, creation of more decent jobs, addressing poverty, and improving education),” he said.
The lawmaker said he is satisfied with the President’s performance in stimulating the economy, citing the July 2023 report of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) forecasting the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth to be maintained at 6 percent this year – which is 1.2 percent higher than the bank’s growth projection of 4.8 percent for developing economies in Asia and the Pacific.
ADB attributed the country’s growth to robust investment, private consumption, rising employment, expanding production, retail sales, and brisk private and public construction.
Revilla also cited the President’s high approval rating, saying it is a good indicator that the administration’s first year in office is in the right direction.
“Nakikita at nararamdaman naman natin ang bunga ng pagsusumikap ng ating pangulo para pagandahin ang buhay ng bawat isang Pilipino (We can see and feel the fruits of the President’s efforts to improve the lives of every Filipino),” he said.
“Lalo na’t tinupad talaga niya ang kanyang mga pangako na magpasa ng mga makabuluhang batas na tunay na makakatulong sa ordinaryong Pilipino (Especially that he really fulfilled his promise to push for meaningful laws that will truly help ordinary Filipinos),” he added, citing the recent passage into law of the Maharlika Invest Fund Act and the New Agrarian Emancipation Act.
Meanwhile, Tolentino said in a radio interview, there is a need for the national government to assure Filipinos that it is still in control of the situation.
“Ang gusto ko pong madinig at madama ng ating mga kababayan kung ano po ang ginagawa ng Malacañang para naman po sa ating ordinaryong mamamayan, yung basic goods, yung mga namamalengke, yung mga namamasada, yun pong mga magsasaka, yung inflation po kung ano ang ginagawang hakbangin para i-control po yung tumataas na bilihin (What I want to hear, and our countrymen to feel, is what Malacañang is doing for the ordinary citizens, the basic goods, those who go to the market, drivers, farmers, and on inflation, on what are the steps being undertaken to control rising prices),” he said. (PNA)
SENATOR Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. on Thursday (July 20) said that he is confident that President Ferdinand Bongbong R. Marcos, Jr. will concretely address urgent national concerns during his second State of the Nation Address on Monday (July 24).
“Tiwala ako na tututukan ng ating presidente sa darating niyang SONA ang mga issue na nangangailangan ng agarang atensyon katulad ng presyo ng mga bilihin, pagtaas ng sahod ng mga manggagawa, pagpaparami pa ng disenteng trabaho, paglutas sa problema ng kahirapan, at pagpapaigi ng edukasyon. Siguradong kalakip nito ang mga magiging konkretong hakbang ng ating pangulo para matugunan ang mga ito,” Revilla said.
The veteran lawmaker further detailed what he is expecting to hear from the president as the following national issues are perceived to be the FIlipino people’s utmost concern.
“Puno ako ng kumpyansa na ilalatag ni PBBM paano tuluyang mapapababa ang presyo ng mga bilihin. Kung tutuusin, limang buwan nang tuloy-tuloy na bumabagal ang inflation at ang 5.4% June 2023 inflation rate ang pinakamababa sa loob ng 13 na buwan. Kaakibat nito ang pagtugon sa kahirapan at gutom na nararanasan ng ating mga kababayan. Kaya aabangan rin natin ang kanyang magiging polisiya ukol dito.”
Revilla highlighted the president’s performance in stimulating the economy during his first year in office, citing the July 2023 report of the Asian Development Bank forecasting the country’s GDP growth to be maintained at 6.0% this year which is 1.2% higher than the bank’s growth projection of 4.8% for developing economies in Asia and the Pacific.
ADB attributed the country’s growth to robust investment, private consumption, rising employment, expanding production, retail sales, and brisk private and public construction. “Inaasahan rin natin na tatalakayin ng presidente ang kanyang mga hakbangin upang maparami pa ang mga kalidad at disenteng trabaho na pwedeng pasukan ng ating mga manggagawa, pati na ang pagtataas ng kanilang mga sahod. Inaasahan at importante sa atin ito dahil sa Senado ay naghain rin tayo ng panukala para bigyan ng dagdag sahod na P150 ang lahat ng ating mga manggagawa.”
“Katuwang ang ating Bise Presidente at DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte, sigurado rin tayo na babanggitin ng Pangulong Bongbong Marcos ang magiging roadmap kung paano mas mapapaganda ang lagay ng ating buong education sector. Sana ay mabanggit rin ng ating presidente kung paano matutulungan i-angat ang allowances na natatanggap ng mga titser. Sa Senado ay kasangga nila ako para gawing permanente ang P10,000 teaching allowance ng mga guro.”
Revilla cited the President’s high approval rating, saying it is a good indicator that the administration’s first year in office is in the direction. The Senator expressed confidence that the Marcos administration will continue to build on the gains of its maiden year, especially that he was able to smoothly shepherd his administration’s priority legislation.
“Nakikita at nararamdaman naman natin ang bunga ng pagsusumikap ng ating pangulo para pagandahin ang buhay ng bawat isang Pilipino. Kaya naman patuloy na nanatiling mataas ang kanyang approval at satisfaction rating sa sambayanan.Lalo na’t tinupad talaga niya ang kanyang mga pangako na magpasa ng mga makabuluhang batas na tunay na makakatulong sa ordinaryong Pilipino. Kaya nakakasigurado tayo na patuloy pa niyang bibigyang halaga ang paglutas sa mga pangunahing hamon na ating kinakaharap,” said the solon.
“Unang-una na diyan ang Maharlika Invest Fund Act na naglalayong mapalago ang pondo ng ating gobyerno para makalikha pa ng mas maraming trabaho at matugunan ang kahirapan. Kamakailan lang ay naisabatas rin ng ating pangulo ang New Agrarian Emancipation Act na nagpalaya sa ating mga magsasaka sa pagkalubog sa utang dulot ng kanilang lupang sinasaka,” he added.
Miriam Merlin (left) with a friend. (Photo courtesy of Tiebreaker Times)
Former Philippine national football player, Miriam Merlin, showcased her unwavering passion for the beautiful game by embarking on an arduous 23-hour plane journey to support the Filipinas in their debut at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Auckland.
In an interview at a hotel in Auckland, Merlin expressed the historical significance of the event and emphasized that it was an opportunity not to be missed by sports fans. Despite the financial constraints, she opted for a budget-friendly Air Asia flight with stopovers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Sydney, Australia, before reaching her destination.
Having been part of the national women’s team at just 17 years old during the 1993 Philippine National Games in Baguio City, Merlin proudly displayed her old Philippine Football Federation ID card, a cherished memento of her international playing days. She fondly remembered her time under the guidance of the late esteemed coach Orlando Plagata, alongside other former national women’s coaches Leticia “Buda” Bautista and Lelet Dimzon.
Merlin, who has been coaching the highly successful La Salle-Lipa high school girls’ squad for the past 25 years, obtained permission from her school supervisor to travel to Auckland. Accompanied by her former player, Kathleen de Torres, who now works as a nurse in the city, she eagerly watched the Group A match between host New Zealand and Norway at the renowned Eden Park.
Inspired by the Filipinas’ victory in the AFF Women’s Championship last year, Merlin made the firm decision to attend the World Cup and saved up for the trip, despite some opposition from her siblings. Understanding the significance of the tournament, she expressed her immense pride in the team’s qualification and emphasized the importance of taking one game at a time while praying for their success.
For Merlin, witnessing the Filipinas compete at the highest level of international football is an honor, and she joins millions back home in hopes of their qualification to the next round of the tournament.
(ai/mnm)
By Benjie Cuaresma
On Thursday, a gathering of militant groups took place on Mendiola Bridge, advocating for improved working conditions and a “livable living wage.”
Carrying placards high in the air and accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums, the leaders of these street parliamentarians took to the microphone one by one, voicing their concerns about what they perceive as inadequate working conditions and insufficient wages, which they believe have been disregarded by the current Marcos administration.
The protest rally, organized by the prominent women’s group Gabriela, served as a prelude to President Marcos’ second State of the Nation Address (SONA) scheduled for Monday, 24 July 2023.
The demonstrators also expressed their opposition to the recent signing of the contentious Maharlika Investment Fund, adding to the issues they seek to address.
After airing their grievances passionately at Morayta St. and Mendiola, the demonstrators peacefully disbanded, ending their protest for the day. (ai/mnm)
Ernest John “EJ” Obiena, the Filipino pole vaulter, has soared to a career-high position as the second-best pole vaulter in the world.
According to World Athletics statistics, he achieved an impressive score of 1432, surpassing American Christopher Nilsen, who held a score of 1428.
The reigning Olympic champion and world record holder, Sweden’s Armand Duplantis, continues to reign supreme as the world’s number one pole vaulter, with an outstanding score of 1569.
Securing the fourth spot is American athlete Sam Kendricks, who scored 1352, while the fifth position goes to Brazil’s 2016 Olympic champion, Thiago Braz.
Overjoyed with his achievement, Obiena expressed his gratitude on his social media handles, thanking everyone who contributed to his success and acknowledging those who supported him throughout his journey.
At 27 years old, hailing from Tondo, EJ Obiena has already qualified for the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris, France. His exceptional performance, clearing 5.82 meters at the Bauhaus Galan in Sweden, solidified his spot in the prestigious sporting event. (ai/mnm)
The stage is set for an extraordinary moment in the history of FIFA Women’s World Cup, as the Philippine Women’s National Football Team, fondly known as the “Filipinas,” gears up for its much-anticipated debut in the 2023 tournament.
Excitingly, Cignal TV’s groundbreaking sports app, Pilipinas Live, which was launched in June, will be covering the historic event, bringing Filipino fans closer to the action than ever before.
Jane Jimenez Basas, the President & CEO of MediaQuest & Cignal TV, expressed her joy in presenting the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup through Pilipinas Live, acknowledging the immense support from local fans. With this initiative, Cignal TV aims to make one of the most awaited sports events of the year accessible to viewers in the comfort of their homes.
Filled with pride and honor, the Filipinas, led by exceptional players such as Hali Long, Sarina Bolden, and Quinley Quezada, are all set to represent the Philippines on the global stage as they take on formidable opponents, Switzerland, New Zealand, and Norway, in their upcoming matches on July 21, July 25, and July 30, respectively.
Throughout the entire tournament, Pilipinas Live will be streaming all of the Filipinas’ highly anticipated matches, as well as the preliminary rounds of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and the best part is that it will be available for free. Fans can easily download the Pilipinas Live app from both the App Store and Google Play Store, ensuring they don’t miss a moment of the thrilling action. (ai/mnm)
The Philippine government, led by Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr., is taking proactive measures to prepare for the potential of China launching an invasion of Taiwan.
Teodoro revealed that they are diligently assessing the likelihood of such an event while simultaneously formulating various contingencies.
These preparations extend beyond the scope of the China-Taiwan tension and encompass a wider theater of operations.
Multiple government agencies are involved in these precautionary measures, showcasing the seriousness with which the situation is being handled.
While the Philippine authorities remain vigilant, they also hope that continuous monitoring and diplomatic engagements between the United States and China will contribute to de-escalating the tensions.
However, security experts are voicing concerns that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan may no longer be a matter of “if” but rather “when.” Admiral Mike Gilday, the head of the US Navy, has even issued a warning about the possibility of such an invasion happening before 2024.
Conversely, Taiwan’s top intelligence officials have raised their own alarm, expressing worries that China might resort to war threats in 2023 to coerce Taiwan into accepting negotiations for a “unification” plan under Beijing’s authority.
These developments highlight the regional sensitivity and potential implications of the situation. (ai/mnm)
THE Philippines hosts the second of two legs of the inaugural Southeast Asia (SEA) VLeague men’s tournament from July 28 to 30 at the City of Santa Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex in Laguna.
The VLeague is a series for men and women indoor volleyball among the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam and is affiliated with the Southeast Asia Volleyball Association.
“The VLeague aims to further strengthen and develop men’s volleyball in the region,” said Ramon “Tats” Suzara, president of the organizing Philippine National Volleyball Federation, which is coming off a successful hosting of the Men’s Week 3 of the Volleyball Nations League in Pasay City early this month.
The four countries are almost in equal footing in terms of rankings in the International Volleyball Federation or FIVB. Vietnam is the best-ranked men’s team at No. 56, Thailand at No. 58 followed closely by the Philippines at No. 59 and Indonesia at No. 68.
The SEA VLeague—a brainchild of Suzara and Thailand federation president Shanrit Wongprasert—opened in Jakarta on Thursday (July 21) with the Philippines taking on Indonesia in its debut match.
The City of Santa Rosa leg—presented by PLDT and primarily supported by the City of Santa Rosa, the Philippine Olympic Committee, the Philippine Sports Commission, One Sport, and Cignal—wraps up the single-round elimination competition.
A separate women’s series will also be staged from August 4 to 6 in Vihn Phuc, Vietnam, and from August 11 to 13 in Chiangmai, Thailand.
The schedule of matches are: July 28—Vietnam vs Indonesia at 4 p.m. and Philippines vs Thailand at 7 p.m.; July 29—Thailand vs Vietnam at 3 p.m. and Philippines vs Indonesia at 6 p.m.; and July 30—Thailand vs Indonesia at 3 p.m. and Philippines vs Vietnam at 6 p.m. (ai/mnm)
TUGUEGARAO, Isabela — In response to the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) report on the under-utilization of development funds by several local government units (LGUs), the Commission on Climate Change Commissioner Albert delaCruz has called on local executives to step up their climate action efforts.
In particular, the Commissioner is urging them to allocate a portion of their budgets to initiate projects aimed at addressing the threats and impacts of climate change.
Before the climate official’s appeal, DILG provincial director Farah Gentuya had urged regional and local government units in Negros Oriental to maximize their respective development funds.
It was discovered that a significant portion of the LGUs’ development funds for 2022 remained under-utilized, reaching only 20 percent.
These development funds will support various initiatives, including disaster response and climate action programs that promote climate change mitigation and adaptation to its impacts and global warming.
In light of the concerning data, Commissioner Dela Cruz emphasizes the crucial role of LGUs in combating environmental degradation caused by human activities, such as mismanagement of waste disposal, deforestation, water pollution, and ignorance of the adverse effects of greenhouse gas emissions.
The climate official is now traveling to northern Luzon to meet with local officials, environmental advocates, and stakeholders from both the private and public sectors.
The purpose is to discuss the acceleration of their Local Climate Change Action Plan (LCCAP) and collaboration with the Climate Change Commission (CCC) in addressing challenges posed by extreme weather conditions linked to increasing global temperatures and rising sea levels.
Dela Cruz stresses that it is imperative for LGUs and executives to take the global climate crisis seriously before its impacts on people’s lives become irreversible.
He warns that our planet is facing a dire situation, and it is essential to acknowledge our responsibility for causing this impending disaster through the abuse of Earth’s resources.
Dela Cruz believes that many individuals seem indifferent to climate change, continuing with a “business as usual” approach.
Additionally, the commissioner highlights the significance of water in climate mitigation. He emphasizes the need to adopt comprehensive water ecosystems strategies, such as those employed for lakes and the construction of rainwater catchments, to address imminent water shortages resulting from weather phenomena like El Niño. (ai/mnm)
(L-R) FIBAWC 2023 Joint Management Committee Head John Lucas, FIBAWC 2023 Chief Implementor & Master Planner Ramon Suzara, Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Richard Bachmann and FIBAWC 2023 Deputy Event Director Erika Dy in the press conference for the FIBA Inter-Agency Meeting on Wednesday at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Manila.
The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), on Wednesday, hosted the final Inter-Agency Meeting for the FIBA World Cup (FIBAWC) at the fabled Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.
The sports agency, which takes a vital role in the preparations for the event as the caretaker of the P1 Billion funding of the government, led 41 government agencies represented in the meeting in reaffirming their commitments to ensure the success of the high level event which expects to have NBA players among its participants.
“This assembly marks a pivotal moment in our collective efforts to ensure the success and excellence of the upcoming FIBA World Cup. With only 37 days before the Games, let us seize this opportunity to collaborate, exchange ideas, iron things out, and pave the way for an unforgettable hosting,” said Bachmann in his opening statement.
The sports agency chief added that aside from the financial backing of the national government, the PSC will also extend help in taking care of clearances and permits needed for sports and media equipment, which are anticipated to be brought into the country.
PSC facilities inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) in Manila, and Philsports Complex in Pasig, which will be used in the World Cup will be spruced up and rehabilitated, which is also what the Department of Works and Highways (DPWH) said they are doing on roads leading to venues of the event.
“For this hosting, we are creating a Multi-Agency Command Center (MACC) here inside the RMSC for real-time monitoring of key roads, all venue surroundings, coordinated traffic management, and delegate transportation movement,” said FIBAWC Chief Implementor Ramon “Tats” Suzara, thanking the PSC for lending its facilities.
Scheduled to be held in the country between August 25 to September 10 and draw world-class athletes and spectators from all over the world, the event aims to be the most watched and most televised sports event in 2023.
“With the support of our President, let’s get our acts together and get things done two weeks before the opening on August 25,” concluded Malacañang’s Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Atty. Hubert Guevara.
(AI/MNM)
MANILA, Philippines — Lieutenant General Romeo Brawner Jr. has been appointed as the new Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
This announcement was made by Malacañang on Wednesday.
Lieutenant General Romeo Brawner Jr. will be succeeding General Andres Centino, who was named Presidential Adviser on West Philippine Sea by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
“Following the re-appointment of General Andres Centino by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the said post earlier this year, Lieutenant General Romeo Brawner will assume the position of Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” stated the Palace in an official statement.
Currently serving as the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Brawner has dedicated 34 years of service to the military.
The Palace also outlined Brawner’s notable previous assignments:
Company Commander of the 6th Special Forces Company
Battalion Commander of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion
Operations Officer of the Special Forces Regiment (Airborne)
Chief of Staff of the 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division
Chief, Public Affairs of the Philippine Army
Spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
Commander of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment
Brigade Commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade during the aftermath of the Marawi Siege in 2017
With his extensive experience and dedication to the military, Lieutenant General Romeo Brawner Jr. is set to lead the AFP as its new Chief of Staff, while General Andres Centino will assume the role of Presidential Adviser on West Philippine Sea.
(ai/mnm)
Famous celebrity couple Bea Alonzo and Dominic Roque made a heartwarming announcement on Wednesday night – they are engaged!
In a touching Instagram post, Alonzo, aged 35, and Roque, aged 32, shared a series of photos from the unforgettable proposal that took place on July 18. The images captured the actress’s genuine shock and tears of joy as Roque got down on one knee.
According to Alonzo, Roque managed to surprise her during what she thought was just a routine photoshoot. The moment was set at Las Casas, and Alonzo recalled, “I was there for a shoot, but little did I know that the next thing that would happen would change our lives forever.”
During the photoshoot, Mark Nicdao, the photographer, asked her to turn around, explaining that he wanted to capture the back of her dress. Little did she know, it was all part of Roque’s plan. As she turned around, she found Dominic on one knee, holding a box with the precious engagement ring.
Being known for her exceptional portrayals of romantic scenes on both the big and small screen, Alonzo admitted that nothing could have prepared her for the overwhelming rush of emotions during that special moment. She expressed, “I have done so many proposal scenes in my entire career, but nothing beats the real thing. I have been doing it all wrong!”
The mixture of joy, excitement, and love engulfed her, and she couldn’t help but shed tears of happiness – an authentic reaction captured in one of the photos she shared. Bea cherished every second of that magical moment, wishing for it to last forever, as they made the decision to be together forever in the presence of their loved ones.
Since the heartfelt announcement, their Instagram post has been flooded with an outpouring of love and well-wishes from fans and fellow celebrity friends, including Andrea Brillantes, Angelica Panganiban, Gabbi Garcia, Jericho Rosales, Iya Villania, Maja Salvador, and many others. The couple’s engagement has become a moment of celebration and joy shared by all their admirers.