By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In what seemingly looks like children’s play “the boat is sinking,” the Department of Finance under Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno is now being rocked by successive resignations of its undersecretaries.
On Saturday, the 16th of September 2023, Finance Undersecretary Cielo Magno, who led the Department of Finance’s (DOF) Fiscal Policy and Monitoring Group (FPMG), will officially step down.
Magno’s resignation came on the heels of the earlier departures of two other DOF undersecretaries Mark Dennis Joven and Antonette Tionko.
Joven and Tionko were originally appointed during the Duterte administration by then Finance Secretary Carlos “Sonny” Dominguez III.
They were retained by Diokno before their eventual resignations for uncertain reasons.
In the case of Magno, sources said no less than Diokno asked her to resign.
Why?
Sources told MNM that one of the reasons could be her continued public support for former Vice President Leni Robredo, who ran against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the previous year’s presidential elections.
It was learned that before joining the DOF, Magno was an associate professor at the University of the Philippines (UP) School of Economics.
She played a pivotal role as the focal point person for the Philippine Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (PH-EITI).
That initiative was initially shelved during the tenure of Dominguez but was subsequently reinstated under Diokno’s leadership.
As a DOF undersecretary, Magno also chaired the technical committee of the Fiscal Incentives Review Board and the inter-agency Investment Promotion Coordination Technical Committee.
Diokno could not be reached as of this posting.
(ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Recognizing that the histories of the Philippines and Australia are “deeply intertwined,” Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Friday vowed to work with the Philippines for the advancement of regional sovereignty and economic cooperation.
At the same time, Australia reiterated its support for the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea dispute during Albanese’s bilateral meeting with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in Malacañang.
“Our histories are deeply intertwined. And our futures are true. Australia is working with our partners including, of course, the Philippines, to shape a region where sovereignty is upheld and economic cooperation is underpinned by international rules-based trade, a region that is open, stable, and prosperous with ASEAN at its center,” Albanese said.
After the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between President Marcos and the Australian Prime Minister, the latter said Australia committed to the following:
- Double the number of Australia Awards scholarships available to students from the Philippines
- Support the re-establishment of the Philippine Institute at the Australian National University
- Announce new reciprocal work and holiday visa agreements
- Create a new five-year program to help further reduce violent conflict, reintegrate former combatants, and improve community development livelihoods
- Support a $4.4-million collaborative research aimed at assisting the Philippines in developing its own national soil health strategy.
For his part, PBBM acknowledged that the agreements signed and witnessed “symbolize our joint determination to enhance our cooperation among various domains. From development to cultural exchanges, these agreements represent a tangible commitment to work together for the betterment of our two nations.”
During the bilateral meeting, the Australian leader also reiterated Australia’s support for the Philippines amid heightened tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
“We have a collective responsibility for security including support for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and Australia does support the 2016 South China Sea arbitral award. That’s final and binding, and it’s important it’s upheld moving forward,” Albanese said. (ai/mnm)
A photo of the fresh addictive “magic mushroom” (The Denver Post courtesy)
By Junex Doronio
CEBU CITY — Staunch anti-communist crusader Cebu City Councilor Pastor “Jun” Alcover Jr. is now training his guns against illegal drugs, particularly the new craze called “magic mushrooms.”
Alcover rang the alarm to the Cebu City Police Office and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-7, saying that drug addicts now prefer to patronize “magic mushrooms ” that contain psilocybin, instead of marijuana and shabu.
Psilocybin or magic mushrooms are naturally occurring and are consumed for their hallucinogenic effects. They are psychedelic drugs, which means they can affect all the senses, altering a person’s thinking, sense of time, and emotions.
“When ingested, the chemical turns into psilocin, which can produce psychedelic effects similar to the hallucinogenic drug named lysergic acid diethylamide or LSD,” according to a piece of information from the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB).
Alcover had admitted to being a former member of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
Realizing the futility of armed struggle and renouncing violence, Alcover later became a staunch anti-communist crusader.
It was gathered from the information posted by PDEA that psilocybin is a hallucinogenic chemical found in certain mushrooms that are also known as “magic mushrooms.”
According to the Cebu City Public Information Office, Alcover received this information from a source, who told him authorities in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental continue to go after those selling and using the magic mushrooms. (ai/mnm)
MANILA — Health workers from the Manila Medical Center participated in the 3rd Quarter CY 2023 Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) on Thursday, September 7, 2023, in Metro Manila.
At exactly 2 o’clock in the afternoon, the siren sounded as a signal that the NSED has officially started its nationwide Dock, Cover, and Hold earthquake drills.
The NSED is a quarterly drill that aims to give the public awareness on disaster preparedness and also demonstrate the government potential response to disasters. (Benjie Cuaresma/ai/mnm)
Reported by Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) issued an order for the immediate closure of an illegal recruitment agency situated along Ninoy Avenue in Paranaque City on Thursday, September 7, 2023.
Heading the operation for the agency’s closure were DMW Undersecretary Officer in Charge, Hans Leo Cacdac, along with Usec. Bernard Olalia and Director Geraldine Mendez of the Migrant Workers Protection Bureau (MWPB).
A formal notice of closure was affixed to the recruitment agency’s entrance.
The DMW has called upon the public to validate job opportunities with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) to safeguard themselves against the deceptive practices of illegal recruitment agencies. (ai/mnm)
Larawan ng ninakaw at narekober na Mountain Bike sa pamamagitan ng Marketbplace sa Facebook
Sa maniwala kayo’t hindi isang lalaki ang nahuli ng kapulisan dahil sa pagnanakaw ng Mountain Bike at sa hayagang pagbebenta nito kinalaunan sa Social Media sa pamamagitan ng Marketplace sa Facebook.
Narito ang kumpletong ulat:
A man has been apprehended by authorities on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, in Barangay Santa Anastacia, Santo Tomas City (STC), Batangas, after stealing a bike and subsequently posting it for sale on Facebook’s Marketplace.
According to the report from Batangas Police Provincial Office Provincial Director, Police Colonel Samson B. Belmonte, to Police Regional Office CALABARZON Regional Director, Police Brigadier General Carlito M. Gaces, the suspect was identified as Eduardo Lajara, 27 years old, a resident of Barangay Milagrosa, Calamba City, Laguna.
Based on the investigation, on the mentioned date, the bicycle owned by Vince Brylle Saga was stolen from his rented apartment in that area in Sta Anastacia.
Saga tried to locate the bike in the nearby area and asked people on the street, but no one could provide information about its whereabouts.
Consequently, the victim went to the Barangay Hall of Santa Anastacia to report the incident still it was only as good as that, a filed on the logbook of complaints.
It was then that the victim took a chance by searching for the bike on Facebook’s Marketplace and was successful.
He immediately contacted the “seller,” and they agreed to meet at Mercado Hospital in Tanauan City, Batangas.
However, the seller did not show up and later informed the victim to meet instead in Barangay Makiling, Calamba, near the boundary of Batangas and Laguna.
At this point, the victim sought assistance from the Batangas police, and they promptly organized an entrapment operation that resulted in the suspect’s arrest.
The suspect is currently held at Santo Tomas City Police Station pending appropriate legal actions.
“The cooperation of crime victims is crucial in solving these cases. Your police force is doing everything within our power to resolve crimes in the province of Batangas,” Belmonte stated. (Jr. Amigo/ai/mnm)
A coalition of militant fishers groups known as Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (PAMALAKAYA), along with participants from the Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment and Advocates of Science and Technology for the People (AGHAM), gathered for a march to Mendiola on Thursday, 07 September 2023.
Their objective was to vehemently oppose the ongoing reclamation and dredging activities, which, according to them, still persist despite a suspension order issued by Malacanang Palace.
The group expressed their dissatisfaction with what they deemed as a toothless and ineffective verbal suspension order issued by President Bongbong Marcos in relation to the ongoing reclamation and dredging operations taking place along various coastal areas within Manila Bay.
In the coastal towns of Cavite, dredging activities that were complementing dump-and-fill projects in Manila and Bulacan continued unabated. These dredging activities encompassed more than 13,000 hectares of the province’s municipal waters, impacting the livelihoods of over 10,000 fisherfolk in the towns of Bacoor City, Rosario, Novelete, Tanza, Naic, and Cavite City.
Furthermore, the construction of the Bulacan Airport project, which involved extensive reclamation of mangroves, fish ponds, and other wetlands connected to Manila Bay, remained unaffected by the suspension order Pamalakaya said. (Benjie Cuaresma/ai/mnm)
Micaela Jasmine Mojdeh, a source of Filipino pride, demonstrated her exceptional aquatic prowess during the 9th World Aquatics Junior Championships in Netanya, Israel, where she shattered the Philippine national junior record in the women’s 200-meter butterfly event.
Mojdeh, previously a semifinalist at the 2022 World Junior Championships in Peru, showcased her tenacity as she completed the race in an impressive time of two minutes and 15.86 seconds. This remarkable performance obliterated the previous national junior record of 2:17.09 in the women’s 16-18 category.
Overflowing with joy, Mojdeh expressed, “I am ecstatic about breaking this Philippine record and improving my time. I’ve been striving for this achievement for quite some time. I drew inspiration from my teammate at Bellevue, Clare Watson, who represents Canada.”
She recounted her motivation, saying, “I watched Clare swim in the earlier heat, where she significantly lowered her time by 3 seconds and secured a spot in the finals. I had the privilege of training with her all summer, which fueled my determination. I’m also grateful for the guidance of Coach Abi,” referring to Abi Liu, a respected member of Team USA’s national coaching staff, who commended Mojdeh’s hard work.
Mojdeh also extended her gratitude to her local coach, Sherwyn Santiago, in Manila, who supervised her training before her departure for Israel. She shared a valuable piece of advice from Coach Sherwyn, saying, “He advised me to extend my stroke when I felt fatigued to prevent my head from rising, which would create drag and slow me down. I followed his advice, and it paid off. I’d like to thank everyone who cheered and prayed for me, my coaches, my parents, and, of course, my beloved Philippines,” Mojdeh concluded.
On the tournament’s opening day, Mojdeh achieved a commendable fourth-place finish in Heat 2 of the women’s 400-meter individual medley, clocking in at 5:08.56. This marked a significant improvement from her previous time of 5:20.66 at the 2022 World Junior Championships in Lima. Her performance earned her 643 aqua points (formerly known as FINA points), placing her 24th overall among participants from nearly 100 countries worldwide.
Additionally, another team member, Gian Santos, delivered a strong performance by securing ninth place in Heat 5 of the men’s 400-meter freestyle, with a time of 4:04.84. This represented a substantial improvement from his previous time of 4:11.07 in Peru, earning him 726 aqua points and a 34th overall ranking in the tournament. (AI/MNM)
The sight of the Philippine flag on the stands of the stadium in Germany accordingly added to his joy of snaring the gold for the second time in one week’s time, EJ Obiena said on his Facebook account.
Ernest John “EJ” Obiena, the Filipino pole vaulter who recently clinched the gold medal at the ISTAF in Berlin, Germany, has once again secured a gold medal on Wednesday (Manila time) at the NetAachen Domspringen pole vault tournament in Aachen, Germany. He achieved this feat by successfully clearing the bar at 5.92 meters. Sam Kendricks of the United States took the silver with a 5.87-meter performance, while Thibault Collet of France secured the bronze by clearing 5.82 meters.
It’s worth noting that the world’s number one pole vaulter and world record holder, Armand Duplantis of Sweden, and USA’s Christopher Nilsen did not participate in this tournament.
Just a few days prior, on September 4th, Obiena had also cleared 5.92 meters to claim the gold medal at the Istaf Berlin held at the Olympiastadion in Germany.
Obiena’s upcoming major competition is the Asian Games, set to take place later this month in Hangzhou, China. Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino has expressed confidence in Obiena’s ability to secure a gold medal at the event during a recent public briefing. (ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
WITH THE TRADITIONAL OPPOSITION in disarray after their successive electoral debacles, anti-corruption crusader Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong now looms as a potential alternative candidate to challenge presumptive administration presidential timbers in 2028 in Vice President Sara Duterte and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
Just recently, at least 100 mayors gathered together to launch the Movement for Good Governance with Magalong as its “talking head”.
In his interview with Christian Esguerra on the Facts First podcast, political analyst Ronald Llamas acknowledged that the anti-corruption movement of some mayors led by Magalong appeared like a grass-fire akin to the 1992 experience of Miriam Defensor Santiago who was also riding on anti-corruption crusader and believed by many to have actually won the presidential race and to the “Erap para sa Mahirap” campaign that propelled former action star Joseph Estrada to the presidency.
Llamas, who served as presidential political adviser of then President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, said it was also the grass-fire phenomena that catapulted his erstwhile boss to power.
However, he expressed doubts that the reported 100 mayors will solidify into a united force to push for the Magalong presidency since they “belong to different parties.”
Llamas, in an earlier interview, had apparently been rooting for Senator Risa Hontiveros for 2028.
“Naipasa na ang baton kay Risa,” Llamas said, referring to the entrusting of the opposition leadership to Hontiveros who was the sole survivor of the opposition Senate slate in 2022. (ai/mnm)
MANILA — It’s confirmed.
Multi-titled coach Tim Cone will be at the helm for Gilas Pilipinas during the forthcoming Asian Games, slated to commence on September 23, 2023, in Hangzhou, China.
This announcement was made during a press conference held at the PBA head office in Libis on Thursday.
Tim Cone, who previously served as an assistant to Chot Reyes during Gilas’ 2023 FIBA World Cup campaign, will now take the lead while Richard Del Rosario, a trusted associate of Cone at Barangay Ginebra, will serve as his chief assistant for this new Philippines coaching role.
Completing the coaching staff will be Jong Uichico, Josh Reyes, and LA Tenorio.
Handling team management duties will be Alfranchis Chua, the sports director of San Miguel Corporation, with PBA commissioner Willie Marcial as his deputy.
Cone had previously expressed his intention to decline a head coach appointment with Gilas, but circumstances changed after Reyes stepped down shortly after the World Cup victory over China last Saturday.
“I joined the World Cup team because, aside from the obvious desire to contribute to the country, my primary motivation was to support my friend, Chot Reyes, who was the head coach,” Cone explained. “Furthermore, I sought the experience and personal growth of being part of the World Cup. It was truly a growth opportunity for me.
“However, given the tight timeframe, just two weeks before our next game, when Coach Al (Chua) approached me, we needed someone right away. I discussed it with Chot, and he gave me his blessing. He believed I was the right person for the job, and that has boosted my confidence.”
Both Cone and Panlilio clarified that this appointment is specifically for the Asian Games, with plans to chart Gilas’ long-term course afterward.
Regarding the Asian Games roster, Cone mentioned it’s still in the process of formation and added, “I don’t have the full picture at this point.” Nevertheless, he emphasized that players based in Japan and Korea will not be available.
Invitations have been extended to specific players, and the first practice session is scheduled for Monday. Cone stated that they won’t have a large pool but rather focus on selecting a concise 12-player squad.
Chua confirmed the inclusion of four players: “June Mar (Fajardo) is confirmed. Japeth (Aguilar) is on board. (Justin) Brownlee is in, and Scottie (Thompson) has secured his spot.”
Gilas is grouped with Jordan, Bahrain, and Thailand in the men’s 5×5 competition, commencing on September 26. (ai/mnm)
As the nation’s controversial Maharlika Fund prepares for its complete rollout, speculation abounds regarding the individuals who might assume leadership positions within it.
Rumors are circulating regarding potential candidates for the role of President and CEO (PCEO) at the Maharlika Investment Fund, with two prominent figures from different backgrounds emerging as front-runners.
Insiders suggest that Robert G. Vergara, the former head of the Government Service and Insurance System, and Victor Valdepenas, the former President and COO of Union Bank of the Philippines, are leading contenders to lead the Maharlika Fund.
Robert G. Vergara, boasting a Harvard education, currently serves as an independent director on the boards of SM Investments, Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings, and STI Education Systems Holdings. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Ateneo De Manila University with dual degrees in Management Engineering and Mathematics.
On the other hand, Victor Valdepenas, who led the Union Bank of the Philippines as its President for nearly two decades, now serves as an independent director at the Manila Jockey Club. He previously held the position of Chairman at Insular Life Assurance Corp and holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy and Economics from the University of the Philippines.
According to the established rules and regulations, an advisory body is tasked with seeking out “nominees and applicants” for the roles of PCEO and directors. However, it’s been suggested that some highly qualified individuals have been discouraged by the requirement to formally apply for these positions.
This Advisory Body comprises the Budget Secretary, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary, and National Treasurer, and they have a 30-day window, starting from the signing of the IRR on July 18, to present their nominees for the positions of PCEO and directors to the President.
PCEO Criteria
Applicants for the PCEO role must meet specific criteria:
Possess an advanced degree (MBA, MA, MSc, PhD) in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field from a reputable university, with a preference for professional certifications such as CFA or CPA.
Demonstrate exceptional experience and expertise in corporate management, financial planning, strategic planning, market and business development, and budget development.
Accumulate a minimum of 10 years of experience in finance or investment, with at least a decade in a senior leadership role within a reputable financial institution or public/private sector organization.
Display a profound understanding of the industry, encompassing risk management, compliance, and regulatory requirements.
Exhibit strategic proficiency in cash flow and capital planning management.
The PCEO’s responsibilities encompass overseeing the fund’s operations and administration, including but not limited to risk management, financial performance, human resources, accounting, and legal affairs.
The PCEO will serve a fixed term of three years and may be eligible for reappointment.
The implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) Act were released at the end of August, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to establish its own sovereign wealth fund.
Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno confirmed on Tuesday, August 29, that the IRR for the country’s sovereign wealth fund had been published in the Official Gazette. This will become effective on September 12. Malacañang released the IRR on Wednesday, August 30.
MIC Capital
The Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC), upon its establishment, will have an authorized capital stock of P500 billion. The initial P50 billion will come from various government sources, including a 100% dividend contribution from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for two years, a 10% contribution of revenues from government-owned gaming operators, privatization of government assets, and more.
Government financial institutions and government-owned and controlled corporations may also invest in the fund, but social security and public health insurance providers are strictly prohibited from doing so.
Effective Sept 12, 2023
The controversial Maharlika Fund’s IRR will take effect on September 12, 2023, less than a year since the measure was first introduced in Congress. The MIC can also raise additional funds by issuing bonds, debentures, and securities, but these will not be guaranteed by the government.
The MIC’s board of directors will be led by the Finance Secretary as the ex officio chairperson, with the President and Chief Executive Officer of the MIC serving as the vice chairperson. Other board members include the President and CEO of both Land Bank of the Philippines and Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), two regular directors, and three independent directors from the private sector.
The fund aims to be a significant financing mechanism to expand fiscal capacity, reduce reliance on local funds, and decrease the need for official development assistance to fund major infrastructure projects. These projects include public road networks, tollways, railways, green energy, water resources, agro-industrial ventures, and telecommunications, as stated by Diokno.
The MIF has faced scrutiny for potential economic drawbacks. Some economists are concerned that by creating the MIF, funding for certain projects may bypass the usual budget process, potentially reducing Congress’s ability to oversee them. Additionally, redirecting funds from Landbank, DBP, and the BSP could require the government to take on more debt from other sources.
(AI/MNM Research Team)
By Junex Doronio
CEBU CITY — Stressing that he could not say “no” to an invitation to attend the 8th Eastern Economic Forum in the City of Vladivostok, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama is leaving for Russia on Friday, September 8, 2023.
In a Zoom press briefing, Rama noted that Russia provided the Sputnik vaccines to the city during the vaccination stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
He also cited that Vladivostok is a sister city of Cebu City, reputedly known as the Queen City of the South.
The forum in Vladivostok is slated from September 10 to 13, 2023.
Rama said that he would be back in this city by September 17.
He disclosed that Cebu City’s delegation includes lawyer and Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera, lawyer Jerone Castillo, the legal and budget officer; Collin Rosell, city administrator; and Armi Lopez Garcia, consul for the Russian Federation, among others.
Rama further said some of the activities that he would be attending would be the Agrobiotechnology discussion, Russia-ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Business dialogue, and Eastern Economic Forum.
Meanwhile, Rama also debunked the “nasty rumors” that his recent travel to the US was to seek medical intervention, particularly for cancer treatment.
However, the mayor admitted that he is diabetic and has hypertension. (ai/mnm)
Larawan kortesiya ng MailOnline
Ni TOM COTTERILL
MANILA — Tiyak na bad news ito sa maraming Pilipino na mahihilig mag-alaga ng bulldog na, dahil sa pagiging delikado ay malamang na ipagbawal na ang pag-aalaga.
Lubhang mapanganib na umano sa tao ang pag-aalaga ng bulldog, lalo na sa mga bata partikular na ang pag-usbong ng tinaguriang Franken-Bully (FB) na walang habas na nanlalapa hanggang sa tuluyang mamatay ang biktima.
Ang pag-usbong ng mga FB na ito na pasikretong inimbento, inalagaan at pinalaki ay nag-udyok sa mga eksperto sa aso upang magbabala na ang mga ilegal na nag-aalaga ng aso ay lumilikha ng mga napakadelikadong “mutant crossbreeds (MCs).”
Ang MCs ay nagagawa sa pamamagitan ng pagpaparami ng mga ipinagbabawal na pitbulls na inuugma sa mga lehitimong mastiffs at bulldogs upang makaiwas sa mga batas laban sa mga peligrosong aso.
Sanhi nito ay umabot na sa 10 ang bilang ng mga nasawi mula sa mga atake ng mga FB sa loob lamang ng dalawang taon.
Ang mga beterinaryo at mga eksperto ay nananawagan na ipagbawal ang mga American Bully XL na aso matapos na malathala ang isang rekord na bilang ng mga pagkamatay dulot ng mga atake ng aso na ito noong nakaraang taon.
Ang populasyon ng MCs na mga alagang hayop na American Bully XL partikular na sa Britanya ay ‘labis na mapanganib na mabuhay’ at kinakailangang itaboy lahat, ayon sa isang pangunahing eksperto sa asong ugali at huwag na sanang lumaganap pa sa Pilipinas na may mga pasikretong pasabong na ginaganap sa mga alagang bulldog.
Sinabi ng eksperto na si Stan Rawlinson na makabubuting alisin na ang mga ito bago pa makapanlapang muli.
Ayon sa eksperto na may mahigit 20 taon ng karanasan sa pakikipagtrabaho sa mga agresibong hayop, walang “mga katangian na makabubuti” ang kontrobersyal na lahi na ito ng bulldog na iniibig naman diumano ng mga kilalang tao.
Idinagdag pa ni Rawlinson na ilan sa mga hayop, na lumalaganap ang kasikatan sa UK, ay iniuugma rin sa underground na mga pagpapalahi ng mga may-ari sa US.
Sa kanyang palagay, ang mga nag-aalaga ng aso ay “naglalaro sa DNA” upang mapabuti ang mga kalamnan, laki, at lakas ng mga hayop — at mapagtagumpayan ang mga ipinagbabawal na asong peligro tulad ng American Pit Bull terrier.
Ang kanyang mga komento ay lumalabas habang may mga panibagong panawagan para sa pagbabawal ng XL Bullys sa Britanya matapos ang nakababahalang datos na nagpapakita na ang lahi ay nauugnay sa karamihan ng mga pampatay na atake ng aso sa UK mula noong 2021.
Dalawa sa apat na mapanganib na atake ng aso sa UK noong 2021 ay may kinalaman sa mga XL bulldogs — tumaas ito mula sa anim hanggang 10 noong 2022.
Kasama ang mga mataas na profile na pag-atake ng XL Bullys na pumatay sa mga bata na sina Jack Lis, 10, at Bella-Rae Birch, 17 buwan.
Ngunit ayon pa kay Rawlinson, 76, natatakot siya ns baka ituktok lamang ito ng isang iceberg na kung hindi agad na kumilos upang pigilan ang pag-usbong ng mga XLBs ay higit pang dadami ang bilang ng mga taong mamamatay dahil sa mga alagang hayop na ito.
Karaniwang iniuugma ang XLBs mula sa isang kombinasyon ng ilang mga aso. Ang pangunahin ay ang American Pit Bull terrier, na ipinagbabawal sa UK.
Gayunpaman, dahil hindi pa rin ipinagbabawal ang XL Bully, ang mga ilegal na nag-aalaga ng aso ng pasikreto ay may kakayahan na ipagsama ang Pit Bulls sa iba pang mga lahi kabilang ang American Bulldog, Old English Bulldog, at Mastiff, upang lumikha ng bagong lahi ng mamamatay na aso at makaiwas sa batas.
Si Jack Lis ay sinakmal ng XL bully dog habang naglalaro kasama ang isang kaibigan sa isang bahay matapos ang paaralan sa Pentwyn.
Sa kabila ng relasyong kahalagaan sa UK, hindi sila opisyal na rehistradong lahi ng UK Kennel Club, kaya mahirap malaman kung ilan ang nasa bansa.
Nakikita sila bilang ‘mga simbolo ng estado’ at kadalasang binibili dahil sa kanilang nakakatakot na hitsura.
Sa panayam sa MailOnline, sinabi niya na, “Ang mga asong ito ay panganib sa mga kababaihan, mga bata, at sa lahat ng iba pa. Dapat silang euthanized bilang isang lahi. May mali sa mga asong ito na naka-wire.”
“Nagagawa nilang biglaang magbago. Kumakausap ka ng walang-wala at biglaan itong magiging ganap, at sa loob ng hindi bababa sa 15 segundo, mayroon nang namamatay. Hindi mo sila maiaalis. Kayang-kaya nitong buksan ang mga ugat ng iyong leeg nang halos agad.
Idinagdag pa niya na masyadong mapanganib na maging nasa kamay ng karaniwang mamamayan ang mga asong ito dahil kawangis, aniya, ito ng isang leon na iyong hawak kung ilalakad sa labas ng bahay.
Sa isa pang insidente, bulldogs, na hindi nakontrol ng may-ari, ang pumatay sa 22 buntis na mga tupa at nasugatan ang 48 pang mga tupa sa isang malupit na pagsugod. (MailOnline/Jr Amigo/ai/mnm)
By JUNEX DORONIO
CEBU CITY — Saying that the rice terraces-inspired luxury condominium project on top of Cebu mountains will cause worse flooding as several trees will be cut down, several netizens have mercilessly bashed former Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) winner Engineer Slater Young for defending the controversial endeavor.
Netizen Roentgen blasted: “The project was blamed for the flooding in Brgy. Guadalupe and nearby areas in Cebu City. Its development permit was revoked twice — in 2008 and 2011. Its Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) was approved by the following Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) in 2007.”
On September 5, another netizen Thirdy dared Young: “If you are ‘actually’ listening, stop the project and pay all disturbances to Mother Nature. You are not a great Architect because the fact that you’re pushing through the project and destroying nature itself qualifies you to be the worst one.”
But Young firmly stood his ground.
On his Facebook reels, also on Sept. 5, Young has assured their commitment that the project will adhere to environmental protection standards and best practices.
“We have been working on this project for a long long time, our team is composed of dedicated architects, a lot of engineers, and sustainability experts. We went through 300 revisions to make sure that we will build this according to the ‘best practices’ possible,” Young claimed.
The former PBB winner-turned-online influencer further said that the blueprint for The Rise at Monterrazas went through 300 revisions to address environmental issues raised by stakeholders. Over 100 architects worked on the project.
“I appreciate everyone who took the time to comment and narinig namin ang lahat nang (we heard all your) concerns ninyo and we continue to engage more expert groups and environmental advocates to look over our plans and our goal here is to listen,” Young stressed.
He vowed that in the coming days, he will be presenting full details of the project including the technical analysis and feasibility study to the public.
But what made some raise their eyebrows was the report that Engr. William Cuñado, head of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Environmental Impact Assessment and Management division, signed the environmental clearance for both the Monterrazas de Cebu and approved the reclamation projects in Manila Bay, which were recently halted by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Cuñado retired from the DENR in March 2023, leaving these issues under heightened scrutiny. (ai/mnm)
Alam ninyo ba na kahit sinong PInoy na nasa labas ng bansa ay puwedeng mag-import sa ‘Piinas ng mga tsokolate nang walang clearance-clearance mula sa Food and Drug Administration (FDA)?
Opo. Puwede po.
Ito po ay ayon mismo sa Bureau of Customs basta hindi lalagpas sa 10 kilo at pampersonal lamang na gamit.
Tunghayan ang kalakip na infomercial para po sa inyong kapanatagan ng loob.
(Kinalap ni Jr. Amigo)
Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo First District Representative Janette Garin questioned the appointment of former Special Adviser to the National Task Force against COVID-19 Dr. Tony Leachon as the latter accordingly lacks the necessary credentials for the post.
Garin emphasized that Dr. Leachon lacked expertise in public health, casting doubt on his qualifications.
Garin raised questions about Dr. Leachon’s credentials in public health, pointing out that he had previously been appointed by the Department of Health (DOH) as a Special Adviser for Non-Communicable Diseases.
During budget deliberations, it came to light that Dr. Leachon did not possess a Master’s or Doctorate degree in public health, a criterion often associated with experts in the field.
Furthermore, Garin referenced a statement from Presidential Adviser on Peace Carlito Galvez Jr., who had described the data on vaccines as “skewed” and “malicious.”
Garin questioned the fairness of allocating P100,000 to someone whose statements were deemed questionable, suggesting that while Dr. Leachon could serve as a personal consultant, he should not be granted a platform within the Department of Health.
“Ang laki-laki po ng medical assistance program. Napakaraming trabaho sa kanila… pero kulang na kulang po sila Secretary sa tao,” she said addressing DOH chief Ted Herbosa.
Garin proposed that the compensation designated for Dr. Leachon should instead be directed toward Medical Assistance Program workers, highlighting their substantial workload and insufficient staffing.
“You can hire him as your personal consultant but you cannot give him the platform of the Department of Health because that is a lot different,” the House appropriations panel senior vice chairperson added.
The Department of Health proposed a budget of P195.6 billion for 2024, which is lower than the approved budget in 2023, amounting to P214.5 billion.
MANILA — The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) advised the Hangzhou Asian Games Organizing Committee (HAGOC) of possible changes in the national team rosters of certain national associations—including the men’s 5×5 squad—through the pre-delegation registration meeting (DRM) that was conducted online on Wednesday afternoon.
“We are pushing hard for the changes in the rosters of some of our national teams to guarantee that they strong finish in the games,” POC president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said.
The Philippine delegation is composed of 395 athletes who will see action in 40 sports in Hangzhou.
The list was already submitted to the HAGOC ahead of the deadline for the Entry by Names last July 25.
Tolentino said that the final DRM in Hangzhou on September 17 would determine if the changes have been approved.
“The POC has already advised the HAGOC of the possible change in the composition of the Philippine delegation and let’s hope that the changes would be approved,” Tolentino said. “But we are insisting hard.”
The DRM is a crucial meeting between a national Olympic committee and the game’s organizer—Olympics, Asian Games, and Southeast Asian Games, among others—covering not only the members of the delegation but major concerns including travel, accommodation, local transport and logistical arrangements. (ai/mnm)
MANILA — As stipulated in Executive Order 39 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the price ceiling on the unit price of rice has been strictly enforced since Tuesday, September 5, 2023, throughout the nation.
According to this executive order, regular milled rice will have a maximum price of P41 per kilogram, while well-milled rice will be capped at P45 per kilogram.
President Bongbong Marcos granted approval on August 31, 2023, to the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), who had recommended these price ceilings.
This decision was made in response to the recent surge in retail rice prices within the country.
It is worth noting that several warehouses in the Bulacan region were ordered to shut down due to suspicions of rice smuggling and hoarding.
In accordance with the nationwide implementation of these new price caps on rice, a store retailer is displaying rice along with their corresponding prices.
But days before the start of the implementation of EO39 some retailers defiantly said they would rather close shop than incur losses.
And this remains to be seen.
MNM will check on this in the next few days. (Benjamin Cuaresma/AI/MNM)
MANILA — The government should take immediate action to pursue exemplary damages in response to China’s unlawful activities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Francis Jardeleza expressed his hope that the Marcos administration would seek compensation for the excessive illegal actions carried out by China in the WPS.
He emphasized the urgency of pursuing exemplary damages from China in light of the significant issues involving China’s illegal actions in the WPS, along with the numerous diplomatic protests filed against incidents such as harassment, laser pointing, water cannon usage, and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine personnel within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
During a meaningful dialogue held at the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, hosted by former Senator Joey Lina and former Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Sonny Coloma, Jardeleza stressed the need for immediate government action to seek exemplary damages from China.
Jardeleza also reiterated the importance of holding China accountable and securing monetary compensation from them for violating the West Philippine Sea’s Arbitral court ruling.
On July 12, 2015, an arbitral tribunal ruled overwhelmingly in favor of the Philippines in its case against China in the West Philippine Sea. (BENJAMIN CUARESMA/ai/mnm)