UP, UP and AWAY: EJ Obiena soars high en route to clearing the Olympics qualifying bar. (Esquire Philippines photo courtesy)
Pole vault star EJ Obiena has become the first representative from the Philippines to secure a spot in the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.
As the world’s third-ranked pole vaulter, he successfully qualified for the Summer Games by surpassing the 5.82-meter mark during the Wanda Diamond League’s Bauhaus Galan meet in Stockholm, Sweden.
This event marked the beginning of the Olympic qualifying season for the sport.
Standing at six feet two inches, Obiena required two attempts to meet the entry standard.
Another athlete heading to Paris is Sweden’s Mondo Duplantis, who effortlessly cleared the 5.82-meter mark on his first try. Although Obiena settled for the silver medal, he gave his all in attempting to clear the 5.95-meter mark but unfortunately fell short in all his subsequent tries.
Duplantis, on the other hand, successfully achieved the same height and went even further, reaching 6.05 meters to claim the gold medal. He even requested to raise the bar to 6.23 meters in an ambitious bid for a potential world record but was unable to surpass it.
Out of the participants in the tournament, only these two athletes secured their spots for the Paris Olympics. Norway’s Pål Haugen Lillefosse and Belgium’s Ben Broeders both cleared 5.72 meters but missed out on the qualification. Lillefosse secured the bronze medal through a countback process.
Just last week, Obiena achieved a bronze medal at the Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic. Earlier in June, he set a new Asian record by reaching the impressive 6.0-meter mark during the Bergen Jump Challenge in Norway.
Obiena’s upcoming schedule includes the Meeting International de Sotteville in Rouen, France, which is the second Olympic qualifying event, taking place on July 7. Afterward, he will travel to Bangkok, Thailand to participate in the Asian Athletics Championship from July 12 to 16. (Source: Online/ai/mnm)
Senator Idol Raffy Tulfo conducted an ocular inspection at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Sta. Mesa on June 29, following a request from students who appeared on his program, “Raffy Tulfo in Action.”
During his visit, Sen. Tulfo verified the claims made by PUP students regarding the outdated, damaged, and inadequate state of the school’s facilities.
“While the quality of education at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) can indeed be exceptional, the facilities here are in a deplorable condition,” he remarked.
“The buildings and classrooms are in a pitiful state. For instance, the engineering laboratory equipment is severely outdated and barely functional. The hallways and certain classrooms feel like ovens, lacking proper ventilation and having only a few electric fans. The chairs are begging to be replaced. Furthermore, all buildings lack accessibility for persons with disabilities (PWD) due to broken elevators,” he added.
Tulfo highlighted the difficulty in operating the laboratory equipment in the Engineering Department, noting that some of the items resembled nothing more than discarded objects.
He emphasized the urgent need for building renovations and equipment upgrades at PUP. Specifically, he mentioned the abundance of old and fragile chairs, classrooms that become unbearably hot due to inadequate ventilation and the absence of ceiling fans. Moreover, he revealed that the elevators in various buildings were non-functional, a critical issue for PWD students.
Tulfo also drew attention to the deteriorated state of the basketball court, where he expressed concern that the ball may not even bounce properly due to the floor’s numerous flakes. Furthermore, he discovered dangling electrical cables inside the gym, posing potential hazards.
Expressing dismay, Tulfo highlighted the power shortages in some buildings resulting from ongoing construction. He shared that a project by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which has been under construction for nearly a year, remains unfinished. Additionally, he observed scattered piles of discarded items throughout the campus, raising concerns about mosquito infestation and the risk of dengue fever.
During his meeting with University President Manuel M. Muhi and Vice President for Administration Adam V. Ramilo, Tulfo learned that the university’s budget, allocated yearly by Congress, is being reduced by the Department of Budget Management (DBM), leaving insufficient funds for necessary infrastructure improvements and the acquisition of modern equipment.
In response, Tulfo pledged to advocate for the preservation of PUP’s budget during the upcoming Senate budget hearing, aiming to enhance the students’ experience, many of whom are children of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
Before departing from the university, Tulfo provided several recommendations to improve PUP. These included conducting structural integrity assessments and implementing seismic retrofitting for older buildings, considering the university’s high student population. (AI/MNM)
Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada is urging the Senate to conduct an inquiry into the alarming surge of counterfeit celebrity endorsements and deceptive social media posts related to the advertisement and sale of unregistered food and drug products.
Estrada has filed Senate Resolution No. 666, highlighting the risks these scams pose to unsuspecting consumers.
He raised concerns about the proliferation of online marketing materials, as well as fake pages or accounts that promote unregistered products, using the names and images of local personalities and celebrities.
These misleading advertisements falsely suggest that these celebrities are endorsing and using food and medicinal products that have not been registered or approved for widespread distribution and public consumption by the appropriate health authorities.
According to Estrada, the influx of fraudulent medical remedies on social media platforms reaches and is shared by thousands of consumers, providing them with inaccurate and false information about the effectiveness, quality, and safety of food, drugs, and health products.
“The circulation and spread of deceitful online advertisements clearly violate the Consumer Act, which penalizes the dissemination of deceptive and misleading sales promotion practices,” he emphasized.
Estrada cited reports regarding alleged endorsements by Dr. Willie Ong, a popular internist, and cardiologist on social media, who was associated with a “miracle food” in the form of mixed nuts.
He also mentioned the case of Dr. Tony Leachon, whose name and images were exploited to imply his personal endorsement of a product claiming to cure diabetes.
“There is an urgent need to protect consumers from consuming unregistered and potentially harmful food and health products by strictly enforcing the provisions of the Consumer Act and regulating fraudulent advertisements on social media platforms,” stated Estrada.
The experienced legislator also acknowledged the necessity of identifying and addressing potential loopholes in the existing laws and regulations of the country.
He stressed the importance of updating these provisions, considering the extensive use of social media platforms and cyberspace, as well as the alarming prevalence of maliciously manipulated images, spliced videos, and fabricated statements in the promotion of food and health products. (ai/mnm)
Inauguration of the PEDECO Integrated Waste-to-Energy Plant in Pagsanjan, Laguna. (Photo supplied)
MANILA — In light of reports identifying over 40 vulnerable areas in the Philippines due to the global climate crisis, Climate Change Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz Sr. emphasized the significance of partnerships and collaborative efforts among all stakeholders.
He particularly highlighted the importance of involvement from local government units (LGUs) and the private sector in formulating and implementing measures to mitigate and adapt to the extreme conditions caused by climate change and global warming.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) previously urged LGUs, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to prioritize the afforestation and reforestation of one million hectares of classified forest areas.
Environment Secretary Antonia ‘Toni’ Yulo-Loyzaga stated that partnerships among stakeholders would greatly contribute to enhancing lives, livelihoods, and the country’s commitment to achieving a low-carbon, green, and sustainable future.
Commissioner Dela Cruz supported this stance, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach involving the entire nation and local communities to effectively address the impacts of climate change.
As part of his efforts, the climate official recently visited Pagsanjan, Laguna, where he inaugurated the municipality’s transition from landfill to waste-to-energy (WtE) technology.
He also participated in a tree-planting activity alongside local officials led by Mayor Cesar Areza and representatives from waste management firm PEDECO, including its executive director Maximino ‘Mike’ Camacho and business contractor Bimbo De Leon.
Dela Cruz expressed enthusiasm, stating, “This collaboration will ensure the realization of our community-based forest management goals, which were initiated with the integrated social forestry program. These initiatives have been established since the time of President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., and with the support of his son’s National Development Plan (NDP) for 2023 to 2028, we can easily achieve them.”
In conclusion, Dela Cruz emphasized that our forest cover serves as the life support system for our country, and without it, water, energy, and food security would be impossible to attain. (AI/MNM)
MANILA – Fide Master Christian Mark Daluz and Jerome Villanueva claimed their third victories over the weekend to share the lead in the AQ Prime Stream FIDE Standard Open Chess tournament being held at Robinsons Metro East in Pasig City.
Daluz defeated fellow FIDE Master Christian Gian Karlo Arca while Villanueva downed National Master Mark Jay Bacojo.
“I hope to do well in this event and gain some Elo rating points,” said Daluz, the top player of the University of Santo Tomas chess team and the newest member of AQ Prime Sports.
He was conferred the FIDE (International Chess Federation) Master title in February.
Daluz’s earlier victories were over Fide Master Adrian Ros Pacis and National Master Edmundo Gatus.
International Master Jose Efren Bagamasbad, the reigning Asian senior (over 65 category) champion, conquered Carlos Edgardo Garma and is third with 2.5 points, followed by Kevin Arquero, who drew with International Master Cris Ramayrat.
The tournament sanctioned by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines offers PHP10,000 cash to the winner.
In the 2000 and below category, NM Jasper Faeldonia beat Clarence Lagac to share the lead with NM Bob Jones Liwagon, Mark James Marcellana, Angele Tenshi Biete, Errenz Denisson Calitisin, NM Al-Basher “Basty” Buto, Freddie Talaboc, Chester Neil Reyes, John Ernie Maraan, Jovert Valenzuela, Jan Lei Kian Rosaupan, Oscar Joseph Cantela, Jhulo Goloran Yuri Lei Paraguya, Stephen Manzanero and Mark Gerald Reyes.
All have three points.
Meanwhile, the 2nd Engr. Alejandro Ramos Sr. and Jr. Memorial Open kicked off on Sunday at Civic Center in Lingayen, Pangasinan.
Jeremy Marticio, aiming to raise his rapid rating of 1764, is among the participants of the tournament organized by Pangasinan Chess Federation president Juan Sison, Lingayen Chess Club official Tom Ferrer, and Mayor Leopoldo Bataoil.
The 17-year-old, Grade 11 student of Pulo Senior High School in Cabuyao, Laguna, is coming off a win in the Mayor Darel Dexter Uy National Age Group Chess Championships Grand Finals U18 boys blitz event in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte province last April 10.
Marticio will also join the 82nd Birthday and 25th Death Anniversary of GM Rosendo Carreon Balinas Jr. Open Rapid on Sept. 30 at Rockwell Business Center in Mandaluyong City.
Also competing are IM Ronald Bancod, IM Rolando Nolte, WNM Jersey Marticio, Romy Fagon, Henry Calacday, Jose “Fer” Camaya, Nestor Gabayan, James Basa, Bensh Manago, Jonathan Bayron, and Edgar Tullao.
Prizes at stake are P10,000 (1st), P7,000 (2nd), P5,000 (3rd), P3,000 (4th), P2,000 (5th), P1,000 (6th), P800 (7th), P500 (8th-10th), and P300 (11th-15th).
In the Under12 category, the cash prizes are P4,000 (1st), P2,000 (2nd), P1,000 (3rd), P700 (4th), P500 (5th), and P300 (6th-10th). (PNA)
MANILA – Gilas Pilipinas’ campaign in the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup ended on a sad note on Saturday after it bowed to South Korea, 71-80, in the battle for fifth place at State Sports Centre in Sydney.
A show of might in the second and third quarters turned out to be enough for the Koreans as Gilas’ fourth-quarter comeback fell short.
After trailing, 18-19, in the first quarter, South Korea responded with a 26-15 second quarter before keeping in step with Gilas’ offense in the third to open a 66-55 lead entering the fourth.
Gilas started the final frame strong and came to within three, 68-71, with 4:32 remaining.
But Kang Lee-Seul fired a back-breaking three with 3:59 left that sparked South Korea’s endgame push to seal the win.
Park Ji-Hyun led South Korea with 24 points, six rebounds, two assists, and four steals, while Kim Dan-Bi added 14 points, five rebounds, and seven assists.
Shin Ji-Hyun and Park Ji-Su each chipped in 11 points with Park also grabbing 16 rebounds for the double-double.
Afril Bernardino led Gilas with 16 points on 7-for-12 shooting, nine rebounds, three assists, and three steals.
California-born Filipino Vanessa De Jesus’ first stint with Gilas ended on a second straight playoff game struggle as she was held to just five points on 2-of-13 field goals, although she too had four rebounds, five assists, and two steals.
Despite the defeat, Gilas’ sixth-place finish is its best since getting promoted to Division A in 2015.
Meanwhile, it’s going to be Japan versus China in the final after scoring blowout wins in the semifinals.
Japan crushed New Zealand, 88-52, in the first semifinal, while China took down host Australia, 74-60, in the other Final 4 tie.
New Zealand and Australia will first dispute the bronze on Sunday before Japan and China go at it for the championship. (PNA)
LONDON – British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Friday announced a 15-year plan for the National Health Service (NHS) workforce, calling it “the biggest ever expansion” in the country’s health care history.
Sunak told reporters during a visit to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge that the Long-Term Workforce Plan is the NHS’s “most ambitious transformation” in its history, and that it will result in the largest-ever increase in the number of doctors and nurses.
He noted that the plan will not only ease ongoing pressures on the country’s health services but will also protect the NHS in the long term for better care in a changing world.
He added that the government will fully fund the expansion of education and training for the first five years with over 2.4 billion pounds (approximately US$3.04 billion) in additional investment.
“The plan rests on three principles: train, retain and reform,” Sunak explained, adding that his government aims to train over 24,000 more nurses and midwives each year, allowing them to reduce the spending on temporary agency staff by 10 billion pounds (approximately US$12.6 billion).
“So we’ll retain more of our dedicated workforce… keeping up to 130,000 more staff in the NHS over the next 15 years,” he added.
The government’s first NHS Long Term Workforce Plan came ahead of the health service’s 75th anniversary next week.
The UK has faced several of strikes and protests by the NHS staff over pay disputes and working conditions. Lack of workforce resulting in long waiting lists at hospitals’ Accidents and Emergency (A&E) services are among the complaints made by the public and the staff.
In his speech on Jan. 4, Sunak said cutting waiting lists is one of the top five priorities of his government. (Anadolu)
MANILA – The national government’s subsidies for government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) amounted to PHP7.38 billion in May.
Data from the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) showed the amount was slightly lower than the PHP7.9 billion in the same month last year.
The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) was the biggest recipient of budgetary support anew, amounting to PHP4.22 billion.
The National Food Authority received PHP849 million, second on the list, while the National Housing Authority came in third with subsidies amounting to PHP363 million.
BTr data showed that GOCCs which received more than PHP100 million of subsidies include Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PHP319 million), Philippine Heart Center (PHP 271 million), Philippine Rice Research Institute (PHP239 million), Philippine Children’s Medical Center (PHP173 million), and National Kidney and Transplant Institute (PHP125 million).
For the first five months of the year, the national government’s subsidies to GOCCs have already amounted to PHP37.6 billion.
NIA received the biggest subsidy which amounted to PHP18.28 billion, followed by the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. with PHP5 billion.
In April, budgetary support for GOCCs grew to PHP8.9 billion from PHP5.1 billion in the same month last year but lower than the PHP10.79 billion in March. (PNA)
HAGONOY, Davao del Sur – A third super health center (SHC), which will provide more than basic health services, will soon rise in Purok 2, Barangay Guihing here.
The SHC, a medium-type polyclinic and bigger than a rural health center, aims to decongest hospitals in the province.
The PHP11.5-million project will have an outpatient department, laboratory, X-ray, ultrasound, birthing, diagnostic, pharmacy, and emergency services.
The first SHC in the province, located in Matanao town, is almost finished while the one in Digos City broke ground last month.
Senator Christopher Lawrence Go, who attended the groundbreaking activity here on Saturday afternoon, said three more SHCs will be established in the province.
“All the services are free and you can extend it like putting a dialysis machine. We bring the services closer to the people and they don’t need to go to the hospitals,” said Go, who helps fund SHCs after seeing the need to bridge the healthcare gap between urban and rural regions.
Underserved areas often lack proper healthcare infrastructure, resulting in limited access to essential services such as diagnostics, treatment, and preventive care, Go said when he pushed for the initiative in 2021.
He also urged residents to avail of the services of his other initiative, Malasakit Center, which offers medical and other social welfare assistance and can be found in public hospitals.
“These are for the poor and indigents and you can also avail this here in your province and at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City,” Go added.
Meanwhile, along with the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation distribution of PHP3,000 cash each to 1,000 senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and marginalized workers, Go gave away bicycles, volleyballs and basketballs, crutches, pairs of shoes, mobile tablets, food and grocery packs, vitamins, face masks, and face shields to the beneficiaries. (PNA)
MANILA – The Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) welcomed Taiwan’s decision to extend its visa-free entry scheme for Filipinos for another year starting Aug. 1.
“We thank the Taiwan government for their decision extending by another year the visa-free entry for Filipinos into their country. Such move will definitely further enhance trade and friendly relations between our countries,” MECO chair Silvestre Bello III said in a statement over the weekend.
On Friday, Taiwan announced that it is allowing all Filipinos to travel to Taiwan without a visa for a maximum of 14 days citing the purpose of tourism, business, transit, visiting relatives, attending functions or events.
This year, Taiwan targets to attract more than 320,000 visitors from the Philippines.
“We look forward to stronger exchanges in the field of labor, trade, investments and culture with this renewed display of benevolence by Taiwan,” Bello said. (PNA)
MANILA – For the second consecutive day, a lone bettor from Metro Manila became an instant millionaire after hitting the PHP61-million jackpot of the Lotto 6/42 draw on Saturday night.
In an advisory Sunday, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) said the bettor’s winning combination of 18-25-12-14-13-22 carried a total jackpot prize of PHP61,234,178.
The ticket was purchased in Las Piñas City.
The bettor can claim the check at the PCSO main office in Mandaluyong City upon presentation of the winning ticket and two identification cards.
Lotto winnings of more than PHP10,000 shall be subject to a 20-percent tax under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion law.
Prizes not claimed within a year will be forfeited.
Meanwhile, 88 others won PHP24,000 each for guessing five out of the six winning digits; 3,554 bettors will get PHP800 each for four correct digits; and 52,043 will settle for PHP20 each for three correct digits.
The 6/42 Lotto is drawn every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
PCSO urges the public to patronize their games as a large chunk of revenues goes to charity programs. (PNA)
The Department of Tourism (DoT) announced on Sunday that it has launched a comprehensive investigation into the recently unveiled promotional video for the “Love the Philippines” campaign. The video has been accused of incorporating stock footage shot abroad.
In a statement released late Saturday and shared on DOT Secretary Christina Frasco’s Facebook account, it was revealed that the DoT’s contracted agency, DDB Philippines, had prepared and released an audio-visual presentation (AVP) as part of the enhanced tourism campaign. However, certain sections of the AVP have come under scrutiny due to allegations of non-original shots being used.
“The DOT is presently conducting an exhaustive investigation to ascertain the accuracy of these allegations and gather all the pertinent facts,” stated the tourism chief on Sunday.
According to the DoT, they had repeatedly sought confirmation from DDB regarding the originality and ownership of all materials utilized in the video and accompanying visuals during prior consultations.
“On multiple occasions, DDB assured the DOT that all materials were original and owned appropriately,” the DoT stated.
DDB Philippines was awarded the contract to develop the updated branding campaign, which replaced the previous tourism slogan “It’s More Fun in the Philippines.”
Frasco had previously disclosed that the entire campaign, including research, logo creation, and other components, amounted to a cost of P49 million.
The DoT clarified that no public funds were utilized in the production of the viral AVP, as it was solely the responsibility of DDB.
The DoT emphasized its commitment to ensuring accountability and taking necessary action to safeguard the country’s interests.
Blogger Sass Sasot, in a Facebook post on Saturday, highlighted that at least six clips featured in the “Love the Philippines” promotional video was sourced from stock footage site Storyblocks and not filmed within the country. (ai/mnm)
JERMYN PRADO snatched two gold medals, Jonel Carcueva kept his throne and Kim Bonilla was hailed as a rising star in the recent PhilCycling National Championships for Road that was raced in what could be the most punishing and cruel road route in years.
Prado won the women’s individual time trial and criterium to remain queen of Philippine cycling—she lost the criterium gold medal going to Maura de los Reyes in the four-day championships Philippine Olympic Committee and PhilCycling president and Mayor Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino hosted in Tagaytay City.
Prado won the 15-km individual time trial (ITT) in 34 minutes and 43.80 seconds. She clocked 3:22:04 in the 104-km road race that was punishing and cruel in the final 15 kms where the riders almost yielded to the steep climb from Agoncillo in Batangas to Alfonso in Cavite toward the Praying Hands monument in Tagaytay City.
Carcueva was as unrelenting in the 127-km men’s road event punctuated by the same climb where a majority of the riders had to dismount and push their bikes up the climb whose gradient ranged from 5 percent to as nerve-sapping as 28 percent.
He clocked 3:05:20 to lead a 1-2-3 finish by the Go For Gold team in the 120.85-km and 190-cyclist race presented by Standard Insurance and MVP Sports Foundation and supported by the POC, Philippine Sports Commission, supported by Chooks-to-Go and Excellent Noodles.
Rustom Lim submitted the best time of 36:21:50 in the 20-km Men Elite ITT, thus ending the reign of Mark John Lexer Galedo, who was 13 seconds slower at fifth place, while Excellent Noodles’s Ryan Tugawin dominated the Men Elite criterium to also share the spotlight.
The championships started Tuesday last week with the criterium races around a 2.2-km loop starting and ending at the Praying Hands with Prado and De Los Reyes providing a dramatic you-or-me showdown made story-book perfect by blinding fog and heavy rain.
The women raced eight loops with De Los Reyes and Prado forming the tip of the competition in the final four laps when a heavy downpour and fog made visibility difficult to five meters—and it was only close to 5 o’clock in the afternoon.
It was in the final 200 meters that De Los Reyes made a mad sprint to the finish to win gold and relegated Prado, the 2019 Southeast Asian Games gold medalist, to the silver medal.
Bonilla, only 17, the pride of Natividad in Nueva Ecija raced like a seasoned veteran and pedaled away with the Women Junior criterium and ITT gold medals.
She finished some half a minute behind Weniza Claire Vinoya (3:11:35.32) in the 86-km road race of the championships also backed by the POC, Philippine Sports Commission, 7-Eleven, and CCN and staged in cooperation with Tagaytay City, Eighth District of Cavite, First District of Batangas, City of Calaca and the Municipalities of Nasugbu, Tuy, Balayan, Agoncillo, Laurel and Lian, as well as the Philippine National Police and Batangas Red Cross.
The other winners were: Mathilda Krogg (Under 23), Angelica Mae Alta Marino (Junior), and Maria Louise Crisselle Alejado (Youth) in women’s criterium; Farin Guill Aisaiah Abigania (Youth), Pepito Khalil (Junior) and Steven Nicolas Shane Tablizo (Under 23) in men’s criterium;
Maria Louise Crisselle Alejado (Youth) and Phoebe Salazar (Under 23) in women’s criterium; Darius John Villasenor (Youth), Andrei Domingo (Junior), and Joshua Pascual (Under 23) in men’s ITT; and John Arwin Velasco (Junior) and Joshua Pascual (Under 23) in men’s road race.
(ai/mnm)
PLEA FOR JUSTICE: Residents of Oriental Mindoro are demanding justice following the tragic murder of Eden Joy Villacete (featured image courtesy of Facebook).
SAN JOSE, Oriental Mindoro – In a show of solidarity, concerned citizens and provincial officials have rallied behind broadcaster Mariboy Ysibido, who spearheaded a fundraising campaign on his radio program “Pag-Usapan Natin” aired on the local station 102.5 CARE FM. Their collective efforts have successfully generated an impressive bounty of nearly half a million pesos.
Within a remarkably short time span, donations poured in, amounting to PHP459,000. Among the generous contributors were Representative Odie Tarriela, Governor Eduardo Gadiano, Vice Governor Diana Tayag, and the municipality of San Jose, each contributing PHP100,000. Additional contributions were made by the dedicated staff of CARE FM, raising PHP25,000, board member Alex Robles del Valle, donating PHP25,000, and Barangay Bagong Sikat Captain Ismael Cacayurin, who contributed PHP5,000. Furthermore, anonymous sources generously provided PHP4,000.
San Jose Mayor Rey Ladaga, addressing reporters on Saturday morning, assured the public that he has directed the local police force to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation. He pledged the full support of the local government in ensuring that the case is resolved.
The life of Villacete, a 21-year-old fifth-year student at Occidental Mindoro State College (OMSC), was tragically cut short when she was found stabbed to death in her rented room in Barangay 7 on Friday morning. Suspicion arose among her neighbors when they detected a foul odor emanating from her room, as they hadn’t seen her for the past two days.
This abhorrent crime has sparked outrage throughout the province, with many expressing their anger and frustration on social media platforms.
“She was a kind and compassionate person who aspired to complete her studies and contribute to our community,” shared Villacete’s father, Perlito, a fisherman, during a radio interview.
Games on July 11
(Philsports Arena)
9:30 p.m. – PetroGazz vs Farm Fresh
12 noon – Cignal vs Foton
4 p.m. – Akari vs Chery Tiggo
6:30 p.m. – Choco Mucho vs F2 Logistics
Choco Mucho took sole possession of the top spot in Pool B, while PLDT spoiled Faith Nisperos’ debut by sweeping Akari in the Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference at the Filoil EcoOil Centre yesterday.
Sisi Rondina continued to shine as the Flying Titans secured their second consecutive victory with a dominant 25-19, 25-19, 25-14 triumph over Foton.
Led by Dell Palomata’s outstanding performance, the High Speed Hitters defeated the Chargers 25-15, 25-19, 25-22 in the Pool A match.
In her second game for Choco Mucho, Rondina delivered an impressive performance, contributing 19 points with 15 successful attacks and three blocks, while also recording six digs. Cherry Nunag and Des Cheng added 12 and 10 points, respectively, while Cait Viray chipped in with seven points for the Flying Titans, who have yet to drop a set in the early stages of the conference.
Choco Mucho coach Dante Alinsunurin expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance after two matches.
“We are extremely happy with the result,” said Alinsunurin. “With our victory today, we are gradually learning how to win because this is what we really want to achieve. It’s really a step-by-step process. We need to win and improve in each game. We want to execute all our training plans for the match. It’s important that our success rate increases with what we’re doing.”
Palomata displayed efficiency, landing 10 out of 20 spikes and contributing three blocks to finish as the match’s top scorer with 14 points. Jovie Prado added 13 points and nine digs, while Mich Morente recorded three service aces for an 11-point effort for PLDT.
Nisperos registered five points in her first professional game, but the Chargers failed to take advantage of the absence of key players from the High Speed Hitters, namely Mika Reyes (shoulder) and Mean Mendrez (knee).
“I’m very happy that we started off well and won,” said PLDT coach Rald Ricafort. “But there are still areas we need to work on, and we will prepare for our upcoming games during this VNL week.”
Royse Tubino, making her debut for the High Speed Hitters, contributed eight points, while Jessey de Leon, filling in for Reyes, made the most of her opportunity with eight points as well.
Despite missing some of the college standouts they were targeting, Ricafort remains optimistic about PLDT’s competitiveness.
“Although we weren’t able to recruit UAAP players, it’s very important that we acquired Royse [Tubino] because she fills in the gaps we need,” said Ricafort.
Dindin Santiago-Manabat and Trisha Genesis led Akari with 10 and nine points, respectively.
The Tornadoes, who now hold a 0-2 record in their group, kept the second set close before the Flying Titans pulled away and never looked back in the third.
Shaya Adorador led Foton with 10 kills, while Jaila Atienza contributed four of her eight points through blocks.
(ai/mnm)
Filipino tennis prodigy Alex Eala suffered a defeat at the hands of Russian player Valeria Savinykh in the quarterfinals of the XXVII Open Generali Ciudad de Palma del Rio at the Asociacion de Tenistas Palmenos Polideportivo in Spain on Saturday, July 1 (Manila time).
Eala, who has been making waves in the tennis world, couldn’t maintain her strong start in the first set. Despite initially taking a 4-1 lead, she struggled to maintain her advantage and ultimately lost momentum, allowing Savinykh to take control and secure a spot in the semifinals.
In the opening set, the 18-year-old Eala showed promise, but her performance wavered as the more experienced 32-year-old Savinykh rallied with five consecutive points to claim the set.
Eala briefly took the lead once again in the second set, going up 1-0. However, it proved to be short-lived as Savinykh, a former 99th-ranked player who currently holds the 243rd spot in the Women’s Tennis Association rankings, dominated the remainder of the match.
Savinykh capitalized on Eala’s struggle to hold her serve, breaking her five times throughout the match.
(ai/mnm)
(Jsnewstimes courtesy)
The United States has reversed the withdrawal initiated by Donald Trump and officially rejoined the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco).
Despite opposition from Russia and China, the decision was made in an extraordinary session of the UN General Assembly, with 132 members voting in favor, 10 against, and 15 abstaining.
Former President Trump had announced the US withdrawal from Unesco six years ago, citing perceived bias against Israel. The decision took effect in 2018. However, the current administration has recognized the importance of rejoining this significant multilateral organization.
Denise Bauer, the US Ambassador to France, expressed gratitude for the leadership shown by key members and emphasized the significance of being part of Unesco once again. Iran, Syria, China, North Korea, and Russia were among the dissenting voices, attempting to delay the vote through procedural statements and amendments. (Source: Onine/ai/mnm)
PEP.ph photo courtesy
A new era for noontime shows has begun as “E.A.T” and “It’s Showtime” go head to head in a thrilling competition.
The legendary trio Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon, known as TVJ, have made their much-awaited comeback with their new program “E.A.T” on TV5. Simultaneously, “It’s Showtime” started airing on GTV, a subsidiary of GMA Network Inc.
The Twitter trends worldwide immediately lit up with hashtags like #GnaGsaShowtime, #LegitDabarkads, and #TVJonTV5.
The show “E.A.T” kicked off with KaladKaren, Mikee Reyes, and Gretchen Ho from TV5’s news program “Frontline” welcoming the hosts of the “Legit Dabarkads” – Maine Mendoza, Paolo Ballesteros, Allan K, Ryan Agoncillo, Wally Bayola, Ryzza Mae Dizon, and Carren Eistrup.
Meanwhile, TVJ had a heartfelt entrance into the TV5 studio in Mandaluyong City, embracing each other and shedding tears. They performed VST & Company’s popular hit “Ikaw Ang Aking Mahal” and their theme song “Isang Libo’t Isang Tuwa,” which was originally played on their previous program, “Eat Bulaga.”
Vic Sotto expressed, “Tuloy ang kwento ng pagbibigay ng isang libo’t isang tuwa. Moving on, moving forward” (The story of giving a thousand and one joys continues. Moving on, moving forward).
He continued, “Ito ang tadhana. Dinala kami dito sa TV5 – ang tahanan ng TVJ, ang tahanan ng mga Legit Dabarkads. Pupunuin natin ang ating bagong tahanan ng kasiyahan, gagawin natin itong tahanan ng mga sorpresa at entablado para ipakita ang galing at kamanghamanghang kwento ng mga Pilipinong patuloy na nangangarap” (This is destiny. We were brought here to TV5 – the home of TVJ, the home of the legit dabarkads. We will fill our new home with happiness, make it a home of surprises and a stage to showcase the greatness and amazing stories of Filipinos who keep on dreaming).
To celebrate their comeback, TV5, in partnership with Cignal TV, Inc., organized a nationwide viewing party, inviting fans from “Apparri to Jolo” to watch the premiere episode together. With over 20 venues for the nationwide viewing party, TV5 and Cignal TV Inc. provided interactive activities for all attendees to enjoy.
On the other hand, “It’s Showtime” on GTV brought together stars from both Kapuso and Kapamilya networks to mark their airing on the new platform. Dancer-actors Rayver and Rodjun Cruz performed a dance production with Vhong Navarro and Jhong Hilario. Jugs Jugueta and Teddy Corpuz teamed up with Erik Santos and Mark Bautista for a performance. Kim Chiu shared the stage with Belle Mariano, Alexa Ilacad, and Barbie Forteza.
Jackie Gonzaga performed with Sanya Lopez and Chie Filomeno. Anne Curtis sang Jess Glynne’s “Hold My Hand” while the rest of the cast, including Ryan Bang, Ion Perez, and comedians MC and Lassy, showcased their talents. Vice Ganda surprised viewers as he performed at the GMA Network Center in Kamuning, Quezon City, singing The Wanted’s “Glad You Came” before transitioning to the “It’s Showtime” stage at the ABS-CBN studio with the other performers.
The pilot episode was also graced by ABS-CBN executives, including President and CEO Carlo Katigbak and TV Production Head Laurenti Dyogi. (ai/mnm)
Mayor Volcano (Photo courtesy of SCMP)
MANILA — Mayon Volcano, as reported by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Friday, emitted plumes rising to a height of 2,500 meters from its summit crater.
During the past 24 hours, the volcano also experienced new occurrences of pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), increased instances of rockfall events, and volcanic earthquakes.
Phivolcs stated that Mayon Volcano remains at Alert Level 3, indicating a relatively high state of unrest as magma resides in the crater.
Compared to the previous day’s activity when plumes reached 1,000 meters, the current plumes were significantly higher.
Over the past 24 hours, there were a total of seven dome-collapse PDCs, 284 rockfall events, and two volcanic earthquakes recorded.
According to Phivolcs, there is a very slow release of lava from the summit crater, contributing to the formation of lava flows and the collapse of debris in the Mi-isi and Bonga gullies.
The lava flows in the Mi-isi (south) gully have extended to 2,230 meters, surpassing the 2,100 meters observed on Thursday.
Approximately 3,300 meters of collapsed debris were expelled from the crater. (AI/MTVN)
Awra Briguela (Newspapersph.com courtesy)
MANILA — The hashtag #JusticeForAwra has gained significant traction on Twitter since Thursday evening, referring to the arrest of actress-comedian Awra Briguela, also known as Mcneal Briguela, after a brawl at a bar in Makati City.
The altercation, which involved Briguela and multiple bar-goers, was caught on video and quickly went viral.
Briguela was seen being escorted by authorities to their vehicle and then taken to the police station.
The 19-year-old now faces charges of physical injuries, alarm and scandal, disobedience to authority, and direct assault in relation to the incident.
Following the highly publicized incident, various influencers and celebrity friends of Briguela expressed their support and defended the ABS-CBN talent.
YouTuber Riva Quenery immediately went to the police station upon learning about the situation. Taking to Twitter, she questioned why only Awra was arrested and handcuffed, asking about the other men involved in the fight.
Quenery further emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and criticized the police for focusing solely on Awra, while the others involved were seemingly ignored.
YouTube star and influencer Zeinab Harake expressed her support, stating that she can no longer bear the pain in her heart and called for justice for Awra.
Actor JC Alcantara wrote on Facebook about the kind of friend Awra is, someone who fearlessly defends and fights for others, even if it means facing imprisonment. Alcantara also clarified that Awra only fights when provoked.
Close friend and content creator Tita Krissy Achino urged people not to jump to conclusions without knowing the full context of the story. She expressed sadness over seeing those who stood against harassment and bullying being detained and criticized.
Drag queen and “Drag Race Philippines” runner-up Marina Summers questioned the police’s excessive use of force, highlighting that Awra was unarmed based on the videos. Summers also raised concerns about the treatment of queer individuals in Makati Poblacion.
UP Babaylan, the longest-existing LGBTQI student organization in Asia based at the University of the Philippines Diliman, condemned the police’s brutality and transphobia. They emphasized that Awra’s experience is a recurring narrative of discrimination faced by women, transgender, and gender non-conforming people. The organization criticized the police for mishandling the situation, prioritizing the arrest of Awra while allowing the harassers to go unpunished.
In summary, celebrities, influencers, and LGBTQI advocates have rallied behind Awra, demanding justice and criticizing the handling of the incident by the police.