Ismael Amigo, Author at Maharlika NuMedia

GMA ‘flirting’ with both Leni and Sara?

By Junex Doronio

REMINISCENT OF “NAMAMANGKA SA DALAWANG ILOG” song that was famous in old cabarets, former President and now House Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is seemingly flirting with two opposing camps — that of former Vice President Leni Robredo and current Vice President Sara Duterte.

But by the looks of it, it seems that Duterte needs more FPGMA — the popular initials of the former Chief Executive whose presidency spanned nine years.

It can be recalled that from January 20, 2001, GMA took over when President Joseph “Erap” Estrada was deposed and then she was elected for a full term of six years up to June 30, 2010, amid charges of massive cheating that caused the unbelievable electoral defeat of the reputed king of action movies Fernando Poe Jr.

While onboard a plane toward an unknown destination over the weekend, Duterte stealthily took a selfie with Arroyo, who was visibly unaware.

The feisty VPES (Vice President and Education Secretary) posted it on Instagram to share the sneaky snapshot with her mentor and wrote an interesting caption.

“The unbothered with the upset. Untangle, unsettle, untie,” the Vice President captioned the photo on her Instagram page.

The VP’s latest Insta post has earned over 13,000 likes.

On Saturday, September 9, GMA also declared that she had a recent “social dinner” with Robredo.

“I recently had a social dinner with former Vice President Leni Robredo and mutual friends from Bicol. We chatted about Bicol politics,” GMA said in her statement issued on Saturday, September 9.

The Bicol region is now also close to FPGM’s heart as her son Diosdado “Dato” Arroyo, a former congressman, married a lady from Bicol.

Dato Arroyo was first elected to Congress representing the 1st district of CamSur province in 2007 and re-elected to the new 2nd district in 2010 and 2013 after a redistricting law was passed before the 2010 elections.

(ai/mnm)

Aerial view of the expanse of the oil slick caused by MT Princess Empress sinking on Feb 28, 2023

BATANGAS City – Nobody is talking about this anymore but the good news is the oil slick emanating from the sunken oil tanker MT Princess Empress is, no more.

This was confirmed by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Batangas in a recent report to Governor DoDo Mandanas as they made an update of sort on the oil spill from the ill-fated oil tanker that sunk in the waters off Naujan, Oriental Mindoro,

Measures taken by their agency were also mentioned in the report.

Aside from Batangas City, six other local government units in the province of Batangas namely Mabini, Bauan, Lobo, San Luis, San Pascual and Tingloy suffered from the oil spill.

But during a meeting at the Batangas Capitol, PCG Batangas Commander Captain Victorino Acosta IV revealed that “there is no longer any remaining oil spill, especially in the seven barangays of Isla Verde Island in Batangas City and the town of Tingloy.”

Acosta also emphasized that the immediate and collective collaboration of various agencies and the private sector to address the spread of oil that could harm the environment and marine biodiversity of the province was greatly commendable.

Provincial Administrator Wilfredo Racelis, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) Head Dr. Amor Calayan, Batangas City DRRMO Chief Rod De la Roca, attended the important meeting along with representatives from various offices of the Batangas Provincial Government.

In the said meeting, it was agreed upon to conduct a final survey, ocular inspection, and water quality sampling to officially declare the conclusion and removal of the oil spill response.

Governor Mandanas promptly recommended expressing gratitude and recognition to all the colleagues from the provincial government and PCG Batangas for their response to this maritime incident.

Consequently, the final survey and inspection were conducted to officially close this issue.

The aforementioned oil spill affected the seas of Antique, Oriental Mindoro, Palawan, and Batangas.

Crewed by at least 20 people, the oil tanker that caused the oil spill is owned by RDC Reield Marine Services.

It was on its way to Iloilo City to transport 900,000 liters of industrial fuel oil from SL Gas Harbor Terminal in Limay, Bataan when it sank on February 28, 2023.

According to an energy sector source, industrial fuel oil, also known as “black oil”, is “highly toxic to the environment.”

The Tablas Strait, where the oil spill occurred, is a waterway between the islands of Mindoro, Marinduque, Panay, and Tablas that serves as a major shipping route in the Philippines.

The strait and its adjacent waterbodies, including the Verde Island Passage, are one of the most biodiverse in the country. (Jr. Amigo/ai/mnm)

The MT Princess Empress as it lies in the deep

By Junex Doronio

ACTION SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS, as the saying goes, seemingly suggests that the recent photo of a “social dinner” between former President and now Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and former Vice President and defeated 2022 presidential candidate Leni Gerona Robredo could be an indication that the former has advised the latter to run for governor in Camarines Sur in 2025.

“I recently had a social dinner with former Vice President Leni Robredo and mutual friends from Bicol. We chatted about Bicol politics,” GMA readily admitted in her statement issued on Saturday, September 9.

According to politiko.com.ph, the dinner was organized by the son of Robredo’s best friend, who’s married to the daughter of Arroyo’s chief of staff.

It further said that “Alita Mercado, who posted the photos of Arroyo and Robredo on Facebook and was also in the frame—is the mother of San Pablo, Laguna Mayor Art Mercado.

The Mercados own JAM Liner Inc. a bus company with routes from Manila to Laguna, Batangas, and Quezon.”

Not really surprising since Robredo served as Camarines Sur’s Third District Representative from 2013 to 2016.

Her late husband, Jesse Robredo, served as Naga City mayor from 2001 to 2010.

To recall, as early as June 2021 rumors were flying thick and fast that Robredo would abandon her presidential ambition and run for Camarines Sur governor instead.

This swirled after former Camarines Sur Congressman Rolando “Nonoy” Andaya Jr. declared that Robredo would seek the gubernatorial seat.

Andaya and his local allies in Camarines Sur have been urging Robredo to run for governor.

It’s an open secret that Nonoy Andaya is a political archenemy of the Villafuerte dynasty in their province.

When Robredo eventually ran for president in 2022, Nonoy Andaya had no choice but to run for governor in Camarines Sur. He lost to 26-year-old Vincenzo Renato Luigi R. Villafuerte, popularly known as LRV.

Even former senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV thought that Leni Robredo would run for governor of Camarines Sur because she signed up for the Philippine Identification System at the registration office in Magarao town.

With her reputation as a “king-maker” as GMA was evidently behind the political marriage of Bongbong Marcos and Sara Duterte in the 2022 elections, it is not far-fetched that this time she is pushing for Robredo to take a shot at the highest post in Camarines Sur.

Indeed in Philippine politics, there are neither permanent friends nor permanent enemies but only permanent political interests. (ai/mnm)

Ang tradisyunal na larong gagamba ay maaari na ninyong ikakulong ngayon.

Magsilbi sana itong babala dahil sa maniwala kayo’t sa hindi, ang paglalaro ng labanan ng mga gagamba ay bawal na sa ngayon at maaari pa kayong makulong!

Ito’y napatunayan ng apat na kalalakihan sa Lian, Batangas matapos silang arestuhin at ikulong ng mga awtoridad ng dahil sa paglalaro ng mga gagamba na kanilang pinaglalaban-laban hanggang sa mabalutan ng sapot ang kalaban at madeklarang panalo ang isa.

Agad naman kumambyo ang kapulisan at ipinaliwanag sa publiko na ang kanilang pag-aresto ay hindi dahil sa larong gagamba kundi dahil sa ilegal na pagsusugal o pustahan.

Ngunit ayon pa sa ibang manlalaro nito, bihira naman ang hindi magkaroon ng tayaan sa spider fights na pasikreto pa ring isinasagawa ng mga adik sa labanan ng gagamba na mayroon pang lagayan na magagarang selda na kasinlaki ng matchbox.

Pinagsanib na puwersa ng Lian Municipal Police Station at mga tauhan mula sa RSOU RID PRO4A ang nagsagawa ng pag-aresto sa apat na suspek sa Brgy. Matabungkay, Lian, Batangas kamkailan.

Ang mga suspek ay kinilalang sina Jake Arroyo, Elson Canteras, Venancio Tabita, at Jomark Casanova, na pawang mga construction worker at residente ng Calaca, Batangas.

Natagpuan sa operasyon ang 17 gagamba, tatlong cage box na ginagamit sa mga labanang gagamba, tatlong kawayang stick na ginagamit bilang tulay sa laban, at P1300 cash na pampusta.

Ang mga kinumpiskang gagamba ay nasa pangangalaga ngayon ng mga awtoridad at ipiprisinta bilang ebidensiya sa korte. Kapag natapos na ang kanilang papel sa legal na proseso, sila ay ilalabas pabalik sa kanilang natural na tahanan, ayon pa sa kapulisan.

(Junior Amigo/ai/mnm)

Tahasang sinabi ng rice retailer na ito na si Ma’am Jo ng Novaliches, Quezon City (makikita sa video) na ang price caps na itinakda ng pamahalaan ay maituturing na isang “BENTANG PALUGI.”

Sa isang maikling panayam ng Maharlika New Media, inilahad niya ang masamang epekto ng Executive Order 39 o ang batas na nagtatakda ng rice price ceiling.

Dapat, aniya, ay simulan ito mula sa itaas pababa at hindi mula sa kanila na may maliliit na tindahan lamang.

Nagdulot, aniya, ito ng malaking pagkabahala at pagkalugi sa gaya nilang mga negosyante.

Sinabi rin niya na bago ipatupad ang EO 39, dapat inabisuhan muna at binigyan sila ng pambentang bigas na maaaring ipagbili sa mga itinakdang presyo ng pamahalaan.

Aniya, ang mga may-ari ng bigasan ay P41 lamang ang benta sa dapat sana ay P45 kada kilo at P45 naman sa bawat kilo ng bigas na dapat sana ay P48.

Dagdag pa niya, mas kritikal ang sitwasyon ng bigas sa kasalukuyan kumpara sa nagdaang administrasyon ni Duterte. (Video at teksto ni Benjamin Cuaresma/ai/mnm)

By Junex Doronio

HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL for the Philippines after it got the 43rd spot in the overall ranking of the “best countries” in the world for the year 2023.

Not too bad because in 2022 the Philippines placed 46th out of 85 countries with an overall score of 23.1 out of possible 100 in the latest annual Best Countries report by Washington, D.C.-based digital media company U.S. News and World Report.

Switzerland remains the world’s best country, followed by Canada, Sweden, Australia, and the United States.

Meanwhile, according to the World Happiness Report 2023, the Philippines is the 76th happiest country in the world.

It said the report was based on average life assessments from 2020 to 2022. (ai/MNM)

Photo courtesy of Al Jazeera

The aftermath of a powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Morocco on Friday night has seen the death toll climb to a staggering 820, according to the country’s Interior Ministry.

This update marks the second upward adjustment of the death count and underscores the challenges faced by authorities in reaching remote and rural areas profoundly impacted by the disaster.

Additionally, the number of injuries has surged to 672, with 205 individuals categorized as having sustained severe injuries.

Numerous online videos depict buildings reduced to ruins and dust, including in the historically rich city of Marrakech.

The U.S. Geological Survey pinpointed the epicenter in the Moroccan High Atlas mountain range, approximately 46 miles southeast of Marrakech.

Expressing condolences, the U.S. embassy in Morocco noted that it had no information regarding any U.S. citizens affected by the catastrophe.

The Moroccan Red Crescent acted swiftly, extending its assistance to survivors by providing critical first aid to the hundreds who were injured.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in the Middle East and North Africa announced its readiness to provide support via X, the social network formerly known as Twitter, and shared images of its medical personnel treating a patient on a stretcher and a severely damaged structure. (Source: Online/AI/MNM)

Ernest John Obiena secured the bronze medal at the Brussels Diamond League, as Armand Duplantis narrowly missed breaking his own world record.

Despite this, the 23-year-old Duplantis, who is also the reigning Olympic and double world champion, emerged victorious in the competition on Friday with a remarkable clearance of 6.10 meters, setting a new meet record.

Sam Kendricks of the United States and Obiena ended up second and third with 5.92m jump.

(ai/mnm)

Tim Cone, the interim coach of Gilas Pilipinas, has issued an apology to former La Salle big man Justine Baltazar and Pampanga governor Dennis Pineda for his earlier comments regarding Baltazar’s exclusion from the World Cup pool.

In a series of tweets posted on his official Twitter account @manilacone, the PBA’s winningest coach aimed to provide clarification for a statement he made during a press conference when he was officially announced as the interim coach for Gilas.

“I don’t want to begin this journey with controversy, so I want to clarify my stance. I apologize to Justine Baltazar for my hasty remarks concerning his omission from the World Cup pool,” stated Coach Cone.

“I did not intend to suggest that he had no interest in playing for Gilas. Rather, I was informed that either someone from SBP (Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas) or his representatives had reached out to him, and he was unavailable. At that time, we were keen to include him, especially with uncertainties surrounding Kai. We needed big men.” The 65-year-old Ginebra mentor mentioned that he hasn’t had a chance to meet Baltazar personally but expressed admiration for the way the Pampanga native plays.

“Whether he had valid reasons for not joining us, whether there was a miscommunication, or whether he wasn’t contacted at all, I cannot confirm, as I was not part of the process to reach out to him. I spoke prematurely during the press conference. I’ve enjoyed watching Justine play for La Salle but have yet to meet him in person, and I haven’t spoken to Mr. Pineda. To both of them, I extend my apologies. My intention was never to involve Justine’s name in this controversy,” explained Cone, who has returned to the head coaching position for the Philippines, the same role he held when he led the national team to a gold medal in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games in Manila.

“In fact, during the press conference, I wanted to highlight how highly we regarded him potentially joining the pool. The young man is a talented player!” Cone has been entrusted with assembling a competitive Gilas team with just about two weeks to prepare before the 19th Asian Games commence on September 23 in Hangzhou, China.

The return of the American coach to the head coaching position for Gilas was prompted by Chot Reyes’ decision to step down shortly after the Philippines concluded its 2023 FIBA World Cup campaign with a 96-75 victory over China.

Coincidentally, Cone was the last coach to guide the Philippine team to a medal finish in the Asian Games, with the squad, known as the Centennial Team at the time, securing a bronze medal after defeating Kazakhstan in the battle for third place. (ai/mnm)

San Miguel Corp. Sports Director, Alfrancis Chua, acknowledges the formidable challenge ahead that is, securing the gold medal in the upcoming 19th Asian Games, set to unfold on September 23, 2023, in Hangzhou, China.

Chua is confident that the newly appointed Gilas Pilipinas coach, Tim Cone, will receive unwavering support from both the team and the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), despite the demanding task of preparing Gilas Pilipinas for the Asian Games in just two weeks.

“We recognize the difficulty of this undertaking, especially for Tim, considering the time constraints and player selection process, but we maintain a positive outlook,” Chua expressed during a press conference held last Thursday at the PBA headquarters in Libis, Quezon City.

Chua further emphasized Cone’s impeccable work ethic, stating, “I don’t need to motivate this individual; he’s been a fighter from the beginning.” Chua, renowned for orchestrating San Miguel Corporation’s PBA dominance, which resulted in the company’s three ball clubs securing 15 league championships since the 2016 season, attests to Cone’s commitment.

“From my experience, even when we’re leading by a significant margin, he continues to rotate players and insists on them executing both offensive and defensive plays. That’s the level of discipline he upholds,” Chua added.

Cone’s role as head coach for the Asian Games marks his return to coaching a team in the event since he last led the Philippine Centennial team to a bronze medal finish in the 1998 edition in Bangkok, Thailand.

Incidentally, this was the last time the Philippines clinched a basketball medal in the quadrennial games.

Assisting Cone in preparing the team for the Asian Games are Barangay Ginebra’s assistant coaches, Richard del Rosario and LA Tenorio, who is currently on leave as a player.

Jong Uichico and Josh Reyes are Cone’s deputy coaches. (ai/mnm)

7-foot-0 Serbia center Nikola Milutinov pumps the air shortly after his team pulled the rug from under Canada, 95-86, on Friday to arrange a final showdown with Germany. (Fox Sports photo courtesy)

By El Ami Go

All roads converged at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, as Germany and Serbia slug it out for the coveted 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup championship on Sunday (10 September 2023).

This climactic showdown is the culmination of a journey filled with astonishing upsets, as both European nations defied expectations to reach this pinnacle in Manila.

This marks Serbia’s second appearance in the final within just three tournaments, while Germany finds itself in its first-ever World Cup final.

The winner of this clash will become the third different nation to claim the title in the last five World Cups, following the shared dominance of the USA and Spain over the previous four editions.

Interestingly, neither Germany nor Serbia, the latter being a landlocked country in Southeast and Central Europe, were initially considered favorites at the tournament’s outset.

Teams like the host nation France, Spain, the United States, and Canada were the frontrunners for the gold medal.

However, France surprisingly exited in the group stage, Spain was defeated by Canada in the second round, and both the USA and Canada stumbled in the semifinals.

Germany’s journey to the final has been particularly impressive, remaining undefeated with a flawless 5-0 record in the initial two rounds and extending that streak through the quarterfinals and semifinals.

NBA players like Dennis Schroder, Franz Wagner, Moritz Wagner, and Daniel Theis played pivotal roles in Germany’s success.

Schroder, for instance, not only contributed nine assists in the semifinal victory over the United States but also consistently showcased his scoring and playmaking abilities throughout the tournament. His only subpar performance came in the quarterfinals against Italy.

Franz Wagner stepped up during the final-eight match, delivering 16 crucial points. His well-rounded skills on both ends of the court have proven invaluable to Germany’s campaign. Additionally, contributions from role players like Andreas Obst, who tallied 24 points in the semifinals, have provided Germany with the much-needed consistency.

On the Serbian side, Bogdan Bogdanovic has been the standout player, leading the team with an impressive 23 points in the semifinal win against Canada. His back-to-back 20-point performances in the quarterfinals and semifinals were pivotal to Serbia’s success.

Key to Serbia’s journey to the final has been their staunch defense, limiting high-scoring opponents like Canada to just 86 points and holding Lithuania to a mere 67 points in the quarterfinals.

To secure the title, Serbia must effectively contain the perimeter production of Schroder and Franz Wagner.

Regardless of the outcome, Germany is guaranteed its best-ever World Cup finish, while Serbia is aiming for its first gold medal in its current iteration, having been part of two previous World Cup victories as the former nation of Yugoslavia.

Yugoslavia is the only other team aside from USA to have won five (5) golds in the history of world’s most prestigious gathering of basketball players.

In the cardiac semifinal round on Friday, Serbia defeated Canada (95-86), while Germany survived a tenacious all-NBA Team USA (113-111). Team USA and Canada will battle for the bronze ahead of the Serbia-Germany championship encounter. (AI/MNM)

September 9 is a memorable day for Cebuanos for it is the birthday of Sergio Osmena Sr., Speaker of the First Philippine Assembly and second President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines after Manuel L. Quezon whom he served as Vice-President. He also founded the Nacionalista Party.

Why do we need to look back on our nation’s past? Why is it important for us to know the past?

The Curious Desire web page offers some answers:

History helps us understand our identity

Our identity is shaped by the history of our family, community, and nation. Understanding where we come from is a source of pride and strength. It can also give us a sense of belonging and purpose.

History provides context for current events

By looking back to the past, we can better understand how certain events unfolded and why they happened in the first place. This helps us make sense of current events and make more informed decisions about our future.

History teaches us valuable lessons

We learn from history in order to avoid making the same mistakes as generations before us. History offers countless examples of valuable life lessons that we can use today. These include moral lessons, such as the importance of justice and peace.

History is essential for critical thinking

When studying history, it’s easy to get caught up in the facts and figures. However, it’s important to go beyond the surface level and think critically about what we’ve learned.

History encourages creativity
Studying history can stimulate our imagination and inspire creative thinking. We can draw on the past to create new ideas, products, and solutions for the future. This is especially true when it comes to art, literature, music, and other forms of creative expression.
History promotes cultural understanding

Studying history can give us a richer understanding of other cultures and how they evolved over time. We’ll also gain insight into how different societies interacted with one another and how their beliefs, values, and customs shaped the world as we know it today.

History helps us appreciate modern conveniences

When we look back to our ancestors’ lives, it’s easy to take for granted the modern conveniences we have today. We can gain a greater appreciation for the advances in science and technology that make our lives easier.

History is essential for our future

Studying history helps us better understand the past and how it has shaped our present and will continue to shape our future. Through history, we can gain insight into how societies have prospered and why certain civilizations have declined.

History gives us a sense of identity

Studying history can help us gain a deeper understanding of our own heritage and culture. We’ll learn about the people who came before us and how their legacy has shaped our lives today.

History helps us shape a better future

Studying history can give us the knowledge we need to make informed decisions in the present that will help shape a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and generations to come. By understanding our mistakes of the past, we can make sure they don’t happen again.

History can be inspiring

Studying history can give us a sense of perspective and hope by reminding us of our great accomplishments. We can look to past leaders, thinkers, and innovators for inspiration in facing the challenges we’re faced with today.

History makes us more informed citizens

By studying history, we can gain a greater understanding of the issues our society is facing today. We’ll learn about the different perspectives that have shaped our world and how we can work together to create a more just and equitable society.

History teaches us about the human experience

Studying history can help us better understand ourselves and the greater human experience. We’ll learn about different cultures, beliefs, values, and customs that are different from our own and how they’ve shaped the way we think, act, and live.

History is essential for our understanding of the present

Studying history can help us gain insight into why certain events occur and why they have such a profound effect on our lives. We’ll learn how politics, economics, religion, science, and technology all shape our current reality.

History is an essential part of our education

Studying history is essential to gaining a comprehensive understanding of the world and our place in it. It can also help us develop critical thinking skills, which are necessary for solving complex problems and making informed decisions.

Compiled by Junior Amigo
(ai/mnm)

CNN Ph photo courtesy

By Junex Doronio

“MATALINO MAN ANG MATSING AY NAPAGLALANGAN DIN” — the age-old Filipino adage of outsmarting the cunning seemingly holds true when the Philippine vessels on their third resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal successfully slipped through the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) and maritime militia.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Col. Medel Aguilar confirmed that the mission to Ayungin was successfully carried out, despite an attempt by the CCG to sabotage it.

Aguilar noted that one of the blockading Chinese vessels was disabled after its propellers plowed through a coral reef in a shallow portion of the shoal.

Fate must have favored the Philippines when another Chinese vessel that tried to assist the stuck ship, instead damaged its hull after hitting what could be an outcrop of rocks.

According to US Air Force official and ex-Defence Attaché Ray Powell, two China Coast Guard (CCG) ships and 10 Chinese maritime militia vessels were monitored at 5 a.m. Friday, September 8, several kilometers off Ayungin Shoal.

He added that the Chinese ships were massing apparently to block the approaching Philippine boats on a third mission in five weeks to bring provisions to the troops stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre.

The BRP Sierra Madre, which was deliberately grounded at the Ayungin Shoal in 1999 during the administration of President Joseph “Erap” Estrada, has become a symbol of Philippine sovereignty in the offshore territory.

Only a dozen marines and sailors are stationed aboard the BRP Sierra Madre braving the possible attack of Chinese vessels as China expressed “firm opposition” to the resupply mission. (AI/MNM)

Featured photos show the different activities rolled out in the “A Day of Caring and Giving” outreach program organized by the Dividend Homes Homeowners Association under the guidance of DHHOA president Engr. Rikki Salanda (in blue polo shIrt). Held in conjunction with his birthday, the “One Day of Caring and Giving” accordingly netted around 6,000 participants. (Benjie Cuaresma/ai/mnm)

TAYTAY, Rizal – For the sixth consecutive year now, the Dividend Homes Homeowners Association Inc. (DHHOAI) held its annual outreach initiative, known as “A Day of Caring and Giving,” on Saturday, September 9, 2023.

Held in conjunction with the birthday celebration of DHHOAI President Engr. Rikki Salanda, the reach-out program featured a wide array of free medical services, including medical check-ups, dental care, eye examinations, random blood sugar testing, the distribution of maintenance medications and vitamins, and circumcision services.

Furthermore, healthcare professionals were also on hand to administer flu and pneumococcal vaccinations for both children and senior citizens.

The event also distributed assistive health devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and walking sticks to seniors and individuals with disabilities.

In addition to healthcare services, the “One Day of Caring and Giving” also featured wellness and grooming services, including free haircuts, feeding programs, and blood donation drives.

Licensed veterinarians were also invited to provide guidance on proper pet care and administer anti-rabies vaccines.

“This annual event is now in its sixth year. Our primary aim is to offer high-quality healthcare to the community, recognizing healthcare as a fundamental human right that contributes to healthy lifestyles and overall well-being,” DHHOAI President Salanda said.

Salanda emphasized that individuals from neighboring communities in need of medical attention were also welcome to participate in the outreach initiative organized by the Dividend Homes Homeowners Association. (BENJAMIN CUARESMA/ai/mnm)

The AFP international newswire reported that a powerful earthquake that struck Morocco on Friday night has resulted in nearly 300 fatalities according to an initial government assessment.

Residents of Marrakesh described the aftermath of the 6.8-magnitude quake as harrowing, with reports of unbearable screams echoing through the city.

Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs has stated that there are no reports of Filipinos injured in the devastating Moroccan earthquake.

Morocco’s interior ministry issued a statement confirming the provisional death toll of 296 people in the provinces and municipalities of Al-Haouz, Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chichaoua, and Taroudant. Additionally, 153 individuals sustained injuries.

One witness recounted their experience, saying, “I could see buildings moving. We weren’t prepared for this type of situation. I went outside, and there were many people there. People were in shock and panic. Children were crying, and parents were distraught.”

Another victim mentioned, “The power went out for 10 minutes, and so did the phone network, but then it was restored. Everyone decided to remain outdoors.”

A Frenchman named Michael Bizet, aged 43 and the owner of three traditional riad houses in Marrakech’s old town, shared his ordeal. “I thought my bed was going to be lifted off the ground. I rushed out into the street, barely clothed, and immediately checked on my riads. It was utter chaos, a true catastrophe, complete madness,” he recounted.

Videos circulating on social media showed a section of a minaret collapsing onto the renowned Jemaa el-Fna square in the historic city, resulting in injuries to two individuals. (ai/mnm/Sourced online)

STO. TOMAS City, Batangas – Viral ngayon ang isang 12-taong gulang na batang lalaki mula sa lungsod na ito dahil sa kanyang kahanga-hangang galing sa basketball, kaya siya ay binansagang ‘Kyrie Irving” ng kanilang barangay.

Nasa sentro ng atensiyon si Justine Anastacio, isang mag-aaral sa Grade 6, na tubong Barangay San Joaquin ng lungsod na ito.

Siya ay kumalat sa social media dahil sa kakaibang kakayahan sa basketball na kanyang ipinamalas sa court.

Ayon kay vlogger Mavrick Bautista, si Justine ay hindi lamang kinikilala sa kanyang kahusayan sa pagmaneho ng bola kundi pati na rin sa kanyang magaling na performance sa court, na nagpapamalas ng pagiging kamukha niya sa kilalang NBA player na si Kyrie Irving.

Si Irving ay isang professional basketball player na may Australian-American na lahi, at naglalaro para sa Dallas Mavericks sa NBA.

Hindi lang marunong sa pag-maneho ng bola si Justine, kundi isa rin siyang mapagkakatiwalaang player sa iba’t ibang aspeto ng laro, tulad ng paggawa ng assists at pagpapatupad ng mga mananalo at plays para sa kanyang koponan. Siya ay naglalaro sa posisyon ng point guard o playmaker sa kanyang team.

“Bihirang bagay para sa isang bata ng kanyang edad (12 taong gulang) ang mag-shoot ng jump shots,” sabi ni Bautista sa Tagalog. “Nangangailangan ito ng lakas at balanse para magawa ang jump shot, at nai-ma-mas-ter ito ni Justine, kaya’t talagang kamangha-mangha.”

“Ipinapakita niya ang mga in-and-out crossovers at magagandang atake na may magagandang pasa para maka-score ng points,” dagdag pa ng vlogger.

“Sa maaga niyang edad, mayroon nang magaling na court vision si Justine Anastacio,” karagdagan pang komento ni Bautista sa kanyang vlog, na tumagal ng 4 minuto at 39 segundo.

8 million views

Sa kasalukuyan, ang social media post ni Bautista ay may halos 8 milyong views sa loob lamang ng tatlong araw, nagpapatunay sa malawakang pagkahumaling sa espesyal na talento ni Justine sa basketball, isang paboritong libangan ng mga Pilipino.

Ang paraan ng paglalaro ni Justine ay kaugnay sa walong beses na NBA All-Star at tatlong beses na miyembro ng All-NBA Team na siyang kinilalang isa sa pinakadinamikong mga manlalaro sa liga.

Sa isang partikular na yugto sa NBA playoffs, nagpakita si Kyrie ng kahanga-hangang kakayahan, may average na 27 puntos, 5 rebounds, at 5 assists. Ito ay hindi nakapagtataka, alingawngaw ng kahusayan ni Kyrie sa basketball na halos walang katulad.

Kilala si Kyrie na nasa top 5-10 ng mga pinakamagaling na manlalaro sa NBA, at may mga nagsasabing maaaring siya ang pinakamagaling.

Marami ang naniniwalang mayroon siyang pinakamahusay na pagmaneho ng bola sa kasaysayan, kahalintulad ng kina Allen Iverson at Steph Curry ng Golden State Warriors.

Kahit na walang duda na may Hall of Fame-level talent si Kyrie, ito ay kinikilala na may kakayahang makaapekto sa bawat team na kanyang naging bahagi, ayon sa isang ulat ng NBA. (Sinaliksik ni Junior Amigo/ai/mnm)

MANILA – It will be Serbia versus Germany in the finals of the 2023 FIBA World Cup as the two teams came away with contrasting wins over their respective semifinal foes Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

As such, the FIBA World Cup finals will feature an all-European showdown, as Germany pulled off a hard-earned win over a formidable NBA-laden USA team, winning, 113-111.

Andreas Obst led the charge with an impressive 24 points, complemented by Franz Wagner’s 22 points and Daniel Theis contributing 21 points, securing Germany’s spot in the finals.

Germany will now vie for the championship title against Serbia, which also defeated a star-studded Canadian squad in the other semifinal match earlier in the day.

Meanwhile, the USA and Canada will battle it out for the bronze medal on Sunday, September 10, at 4:30 p.m., just before the eagerly awaited Germany-Serbia title showdown is slated at 8:40 p.m.

Team USA engaged Germany in a see-saw game in the first and then took a slim 60-59 margin at the half before resetting the game at 64-all off Jaren Jackson, Jr.’s two free throws.

From there, Germany took the lead and showed the way and took a comfortable 92-84 advantage on Bobby Portis, Jr.’s banking floater at the end of the third canto.

The Germans never relinquished the lead but coach Steve Kerr’s wards dropped a telling 9-0 tear going into the final three minutes of play that shoved them up close at 103-106 capped by Anthony Edwards’ trey with 3:17 minutes to go.

US pulled closest at 107-108 courtesy of Austin Reaves’ two-of-two free throws, with 1:35 minutes left.

But equally determined, Germany responded with a step-back triple from Andreas Obst that gave them a 111-107 lead with a minute left.

And the rest was history.

The American team secured their spot in the semifinals with an emphatic 100-63 victory over Italy in the quarterfinals while Germany reached the semifinals after a tense 81-79 win against the crowd favorite, Latvia.

The semifinal showdown between Germany and the US marked the second encounter between the two countries in less than a month.

They faced off in an exhibition game on August 21, where the Americans staged a remarkable comeback from a 16-point deficit in the second half to defeat the Germans in Abu Dhabi.

Anthony Edwards erupted for 34 points in that exhibition match.

The Americans had a medal-less campaign in 2019, although its holds the distinction as the winningest team with five golds together with another country, Yugoslavia.

The Soviet Union has three (3), while Brazil and Spain have two (2) each and Argentina with 1.

Serbia outguns Canada

Serbia blazed a triumphant path to the FIBA World Cup final by outgunning a star-studded Canadian squad, prevailing with a score of 95-86 in the other knockout semifinal clash earlier played.

Bogdan Bogdanovic led the charge for Serbia with an impressive 23 points, showcasing remarkable accuracy with an eight of 12 shooting record.

It’s noteworthy that Serbia boasts the fewest NBA players among all the semifinalists, with just two in their roster.

Ognjen Dobric contributed 16 points to the cause, while Nikola Milutinov delivered a double-double performance with 16 points and 10 rebounds.

Serbia now advances to the championship game, where they will face the victor of the other semifinal matchup between the USA and Germany (playing at press time).

The American team secured their spot in the semifinals with a dominant 100-63 triumph over Italy in the quarterfinals, while Germany advanced after a nail-biting 81-79 victory over the crowd favorite, Latvia.

As the final quarter began, it became increasingly evident that Serbia was on the verge of securing the first ticket to the championship game in this year’s edition of the world’s premier basketball tournament.

At that point, Serbia held a commanding 77-63 lead, boosted by a dazzling steal and score by Aleksa Abramovic, followed by a three-pointer from Marko Guduric.

A timely tip-in by Dejan Davidovac further extended Serbia’s advantage to 17 points (82-65) with 8:35 remaining.

In response, Canada called for a timeout in a desperate bid to halt Serbia’s momentum.

Dillon Brooks then drained a crucial three-pointer to briefly interrupt Serbia’s dominance.

However, the Serbians, resolute in their determination, maintained a tenacious defense and a well-coordinated offensive strategy, effectively keeping the Canadians at bay.

Canada never managed to significantly narrow the gap but at the final count, and Serbia ultimately clinched the victory, securing their spot in the FIBA World Cup final.

After a silver medal finish in 2014, Serbia is now poised to contend for gold in the FIBA World Cup finals once again.

Serbia earned the first semifinal slot in the 2023 World Cup via a resounding 87-68 win over previously unbeaten Lithuania on Tuesday.

On the other hand, Team Canada advanced to the FIBA Men’s Basketball World Cup 2023 semifinals after taking down Slovenia 100-89 on Wednesday behind a 31-point, 10-rebound performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

(ai/mnm)

MANILA — Serbia blazed a triumphant path to the FIBA World Cup final by outgunning a star-studded Canadian squad, prevailing with a score of 95-86 in the knockout semifinal clash at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Bogdan Bogdanovic led the charge for Serbia with an impressive 23 points, showcasing remarkable accuracy with an eight-of-12 shooting record.