MANILA – The Department of Tourism (DOT) is inviting Hollywood executives to explore the Philippines as a prime filming destination, highlighting the country’s stunning landscapes and talented workforce.
During a press conference at the Sunset Marquis Hotel in Los Angeles, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco showcased the Philippines’ diverse scenery, from its 7,600 islands and pristine beaches to its bustling urban landscapes. She also emphasized the local creative talent, noting that the nation’s strong English proficiency and skilled workforce make it an attractive location for foreign filmmakers.
“The Philippines offers more than just beautiful landscapes. Its people, creative talents, and English proficiency make it an ideal choice for international productions,” Frasco stated.
Frasco also highlighted the country’s recent incentives for filmmakers, including the CREATE MORE (Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises – Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy) Act, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. These incentives, combined with the Philippines’ cost-effectiveness and rich cultural offerings, further strengthen its appeal.
“We offer competitive filming costs, lower labor and goods expenses, and a wealth of cultural, historical, and gastronomic experiences,” Frasco added.
The press conference was part of the “Expanding The Bridge Initiative,” aimed at reconnecting the Philippine film and entertainment industries with Hollywood. The initiative coincided with the Manila International Film Festival.
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PHOTO CAPTION: From left to right: Marc Kerveillant, Head of Product Development and Engineering, Globe Business; Marlon Cruz, Senior Director, Business Solutions Consulting, Globe Business; Angie Po, Head of Product Management, Globe Business; Tim Bell, Vice President for Sales – EMEA and APAC, Hexnode; Rossan de los Reyes, ASEAN Growth Development Manager, Hexnode; Keith O’Leary, ASEAN Enterprise, Sales Director; and Melvin Esperas, Senior Director for Cybersecurity, Product Management, Globe Business.
MANILA, Philippines (March 4, 2025): Hexnode, the award-winning Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution by Mitsogo Inc, has announced a strategic partnership with Globe Business, the enterprise arm of Globe Telecom and a leading provider of ICT solutions in the Philippines. This collaboration enhances Globe Business’ portfolio and introduces Hexnode’s advanced UEM features to businesses across the region.
The Philippines is advancing its digital transformation agenda through the National Cybersecurity Plan 2023–2028, which emphasizes safeguarding cyberspace and strengthening cybersecurity policies. This strategic initiative underscores the rising demand for secure endpoint management solutions to protect corporate networks and data across industries. Addressing this need, the partnership between Hexnode and Globe Business introduces advanced UEM solutions that empower organizations to bolster security and improve operational efficiency, aligning with the nation’s digital goals.
“At Globe Business, we’re committed to empowering Filipino businesses with the most advanced and reliable ICT solutions. Our partnership with Hexnode allows us to offer a comprehensive UEM platform that simplifies device management, strengthens security, and improves operational efficiency. This translates to tangible benefits for our customers, enabling them to focus on what matters most: growing their business,” said KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business.
Hexnode provides a comprehensive suite of tools tailored to simplify and optimize device management across all major operating systems. Through this partnership, Globe Business enables its clients to leverage Hexnode’s advanced features such as Patch Management, Remote Monitoring and Management, Application Management, and Identity and Access Management.
Additionally, Hexnode’s specialized capabilities, including Kiosk Management, Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Management, and IoT Device Management, align perfectly with Globe Business’ mission to deliver innovative ICT solutions. These features empower businesses to enhance device security, improve operational workflows, and optimize IT resources as they navigate their digital transformation journeys. For instance, BYOD Management allows employees to securely use their personal devices for work purposes, increasing flexibility and productivity while maintaining corporate security.
Keith O Leary, Enterprise Sales Director (ASEAN) at Hexnode, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “This collaboration with Globe Business reaffirms our commitment to empowering businesses in the Philippines with adaptive endpoint management solutions. As organizations in the region increasingly embrace new technology, Hexnode’s extensive capabilities will help them strengthen their IT infrastructure. We are excited to partner with Globe Business to support the ongoing transformation of enterprises across the nation.”
This partnership signifies a shared vision of driving technological advancement and innovation in endpoint management. Hexnode and Globe Business are committed to delivering exceptional value to their customers, setting a new benchmark for IT solutions that address the evolving challenges of modern enterprises.
MANILA – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that easterlies will continue to bring rains to several areas, while most parts of the country are expected to experience fair weather on Wednesday.
Scattered rains and thunderstorms will affect Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, Sarangani, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. Moderate to heavy rainfall in these areas could potentially trigger flash floods or landslides.
“The rest of the country will have generally fair weather, with isolated rain showers,” PAGASA forecaster Rhea Torres explained.
Torres also noted that there are no tropical cyclones or low-pressure areas expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility in the coming days.
In addition, the eastern sections of the Visayas and Mindanao will experience moderate to strong winds, with moderate to rough coastal waters. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate, accompanied by slight to moderate seas.
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MANILA – Parts of the Philippines, especially Mindanao, will experience rain on Friday (28 Feb 2025) due to the easterlies and the northeast monsoon, or “amihan.”
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that scattered rains and thunderstorms will affect Mindanao, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, and Southern Leyte. These areas may face flash floods or landslides from moderate to heavy rainfall.
Isolated light rains from the amihan will be felt across Cagayan Valley, Ilocos, the Cordillera region, and Central Luzon. Other parts of the country will experience isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.
Severe thunderstorms could lead to flash floods or landslides. PAGASA also warned of moderate to strong winds and rough seas in the eastern Visayas and Mindanao. Light to moderate winds with slight to moderate seas are expected elsewhere.
As of 2 a.m., no low-pressure area was detected, and no tropical cyclone formation is anticipated, PAGASA added.
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MANILA – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued a weather advisory, forecasting that three prevailing weather systems will bring rain to various parts of the country this week.
The shear line, which occurs when two air masses meet, is expected to cause scattered rain showers and isolated thunderstorms across Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga. PAGASA warned that these areas may experience intermittent rainfall and thunderstorms throughout the day.
Meanwhile, the easterlies will affect the remaining parts of the Visayas and Mindanao, bringing similar weather conditions—scattered rain showers and occasional thunderstorms.
In addition, the northeast monsoon, or “amihan,” is forecast to bring cooler weather and rain to parts of Luzon. Affected areas include Cagayan Valley, the Cordillera Administrative Region, Aurora, and Quezon, where moderate to heavy rains could lead to flash floods and landslides.
PAGASA has urged residents in these areas to remain vigilant as the weather conditions could cause potential hazards, especially in mountainous and flood-prone regions.
The rest of Luzon will experience isolated light rains brought on by the northeast monsoon, while the eastern sections of Southern Luzon and the Visayas will experience strong winds and rough seas. Moderate to strong winds and moderate to rough coastal waters are expected across the rest of Luzon, Visayas, and the northern and eastern parts of Mindanao.
In contrast, the remaining areas of the country will experience light to moderate winds, with generally slight to moderate seas, according to PAGASA.
Residents and travelers across the affected regions are advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates and take precautions, especially in areas prone to flooding and landslides.
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MANILA – Two weather systems will bring rain to most parts of the Philippines on Tuesday (25 Feb 2025), according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
The easterlies will cause scattered rain showers and thunderstorms in the Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Caraga, and Davao Region, with potential flash floods and landslides due to moderate to heavy rainfall.
Light rains from the northeast monsoon (“amihan”) will affect Cagayan Valley, the Cordillera region, Aurora, and Quezon, while Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon can expect isolated light showers.
Elsewhere in Mindanao, isolated rain showers or thunderstorms are possible due to the easterlies, with severe conditions potentially leading to flash floods or landslides.
In terms of winds, strong to gale-force winds and rough seas will continue in Northern Luzon, while moderate to strong winds and rough seas are expected in the Visayas, most of Luzon, and northern and eastern Mindanao. Light to moderate winds with slight to moderate seas will affect the rest of Mindanao.
PAGASA also noted that no low-pressure area is currently being monitored as of 2 a.m. for possible tropical cyclone development.
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MANILA — Several regions in the Philippines are expected to experience rainfall on Tuesday (18 Feb 2025), as four distinct weather systems continue to affect the country.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), areas such as Batanes, Cagayan, and Apayao will continue to see wet conditions due to the northeast monsoon, also known as “amihan.”
The shear line will bring scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms to Isabela and Aurora, while the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) will cause similar weather patterns over Zamboanga Peninsula, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.
Residents in these areas can expect moderate to heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash floods and landslides.
In the rest of the country, isolated rain showers or thunderstorms are likely due to the easterlies, with severe storms potentially triggering flash floods or landslides.
PAGASA also noted that moderate to strong winds and rough seas are expected to continue over northern Luzon. Elsewhere, conditions will remain light to moderate, with slight to moderate coastal waters.
Fortunately, no low-pressure areas are expected to develop into tropical cyclones at this time.
Stay updated and prepared for weather-related hazards, PAGASA advises.
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MANILA – Japan has committed 444-million-yen (approximately PHP168 million) to support the development of an Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) laboratory at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman.
The funding was formalized through a grant agreement signed by Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya during a ceremony at the DFA office in Pasay City on Wednesday.
This grant will provide essential Open RAN equipment to the laboratory, which was established through a 2024 memorandum of understanding between UP Diliman and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Japanese Ambassador Endo emphasized that Open RAN allows for more vendor diversity in telecommunications, resulting in lower costs and increased accessibility, which can drive innovation. The system will help local telecom companies, like Smart and Globe Telecom, by allowing them to integrate hardware and software from various information and communication technology (ICT) vendors, reducing 5G deployment costs.
The initiative forms part of ongoing discussions between Japan, the Philippines, and the United States, with Japan reiterating its commitment to advancing the use of Open RAN in the region. Ambassador Endo expressed his hope that the lab’s success would encourage wider adoption of Open RAN throughout the country.
Secretary Manalo thanked Japan for its support, highlighting the growing bilateral cooperation, particularly in the field of communications technology. The Japanese government’s grant is in addition to the USD8 million pledged by the US and Japan for Open RAN field trials in the Philippines.
UP Vice President for Digital Transformation, Peter Sy, noted that telecom companies are welcome to use the lab for testing, with the Open RAN system expected to lower market costs through increased vendor participation.
The laboratory, which was recently inaugurated, reflects Japan’s dedication to fostering an open, secure, and interoperable ICT ecosystem in the Philippines.
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MANILA — The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued a weather advisory concerning current conditions affecting different regions of the country.
Weather Overview:
A Shear Line is currently impacting the southern parts of Luzon, while the Northeast Monsoon is affecting the remainder of Luzon. Additionally, the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is bringing scattered rain to parts of the Visayas and Mindanao.
Forecast Weather Conditions:
Bicol Region, Quezon, and Aurora:
Cloudy skies with scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms are expected due to the Shear Line. Moderate to heavy rains, at times intense, may lead to flash floods or landslides.
Eastern Visayas, Caraga, Davao Region, and Palawan:
The ITCZ will bring cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms. Flash floods or landslides are possible in these areas due to moderate to heavy rains.
Metro Manila, Cagayan Valley, Cordillera Administrative Region, and the rest of Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and MIMAROPA:
These regions will experience cloudy skies with rain caused by the Northeast Monsoon. Moderate to heavy rains may result in flash floods or landslides.
The Rest of Luzon:
Areas outside the affected regions will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies, with isolated light rains. There is no significant impact expected.
The Rest of the Country (Mindanao, Visayas):
Cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms will occur due to Localized Thunderstorms. Flash floods or landslides may occur during severe thunderstorms.
Wind and Coastal Water Conditions:
Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, and the Eastern Sections of Southern Luzon and Visayas:
Strong to gale-force winds from the northeast will result in rough to very rough seas (waves ranging from 3.1 to 5.0 meters).
The Rest of Luzon and Visayas:
Moderate to strong northeast winds will bring moderate to rough seas (waves ranging from 2.1 to 4.0 meters).
Mindanao:
Light to moderate winds from the east to northeast will create slight to moderate seas (waves ranging from 0.6 to 2.5 meters).
Safety Reminders:
Residents in affected areas are advised to remain vigilant for possible flash floods and landslides, especially in regions experiencing heavy rainfall. Mariners and fishermen should exercise caution, particularly in areas with strong winds and rough seas.
For more information and updates, the public is advised to monitor local media and PAGASA’s official channels.
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MANILA – Philippine immigration authorities on Saturday (08 Feb 2025) said they have deported a high-profile Indian fugitive, Joginder Gyong (aka Gupta Kant), wanted for terrorism and organized crime.
Gyong, arrested by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) in Bacolod City in July 2024, was deported on February 1, 2025, en route to Bangkok and then to New Delhi, where Indian authorities immediately took him into custody.
Gyong faces charges for 26 criminal cases across India, including murder, extortion, and kidnapping.
He is accused of leading organized crime syndicates, procuring illegal firearms, and orchestrating contract killings.
His arrest follows an international police red notice, and he is linked to terror-related networks.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized the importance of international cooperation, highlighting that Gyong’s deportation underscores the Philippines’ commitment to fighting transnational crime. “Criminals and terrorists will find no safe haven here,” Viado said.
In related news, the BI also barred 137 foreign nationals from entering the Philippines in 2024 for being registered sex offenders, with Americans topping the list. These individuals are permanently banned from returning to the country.
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MANILA – The Philippines will continue to experience widespread rains on Friday, according to the weather bureau.
The shear line will bring scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms to the Visayas, Bicol Region, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Dinagat Islands, and Surigao del Norte. Meanwhile, the northeast monsoon will affect Metro Manila, Cagayan Valley, the Cordillera region, Aurora, Bulacan, and Bataan, bringing moderate to heavy rains, with possible flash floods or landslides.
Isolated light rains will persist in other parts of Luzon, while the easterlies will cause scattered rain showers or thunderstorms over Mindanao.
Strong winds and rough seas are expected in the eastern sections of Southern Luzon and the Visayas, with moderate to strong winds and rough coastal waters over Northern Luzon and parts of Central Luzon and Mindanao. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate with slight to moderate seas.
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MANILA – Most parts of the country will experience rain on Tuesday, January 28, due to three weather systems, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms brought by the shear line are forecast in the Visayas, Palawan, and Dinagat Islands. The rest of Mindanao will also see scattered rains and thunderstorms due to the easterlies.
Meanwhile, rains caused by the northeast monsoon or “amihan” will affect Batanes, Cagayan, and Isabela. These areas may experience moderate to heavy rainfall, which could trigger flash floods or landslides, PAGASA warned.
Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon will have isolated light rains due to the northeast monsoon.
No low-pressure area is currently being monitored for potential tropical cyclone development, PAGASA added.
Strong to gale-force winds and rough to very rough seas are expected over Northern Luzon, making sea travel risky for small vessels. Mariners are advised to stay in port or seek safe harbor. Moderate to strong winds with moderate to rough seas are forecast in Central Luzon, while the rest of the country will have light to moderate winds with slight to moderate seas.
Stay updated for further weather advisories.
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MANILA — Residents of Palawan and Basilan were placed on high alert as China’s Long March 8A rocket launched from Hainan province on Saturday. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) issued an advisory, warning of potential debris in three designated drop zones within Philippine waters.
Drop Zone 1 is near Rozul Reef in the West Philippine Sea, within the country’s exclusive economic zone, while Drop Zones 2 and 3 are near Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, respectively.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), BFAR, DILG, and DENR-NAMRIA have been directed to enforce temporary restrictions and issue navigational warnings. The public is urged to report debris sightings but avoid contact, as remnants may contain hazardous rocket fuel.
Regional councils in Mimaropa and BARMM are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring marine safety measures and public updates. The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has emphasized the potential danger of handling debris, reinforcing public safety protocols.
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MANILA – The French Navy’s aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and its escort ships are set to visit the Philippines in February, marking a significant milestone in the growing maritime security cooperation between the two nations.
French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel announced this at a maritime cooperation forum in Makati City, stating that the visit is in line with the 2023 defense cooperation agreement between France and the Philippines.
“This underscores France’s commitment to strengthening its involvement alongside the Philippines and will facilitate numerous joint activities with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP),” Fontanel said.
Regional Stability and Joint Exercises
The carrier group is currently participating in the Le Perouse 2025 maritime exercise, involving 13 naval vessels and over 30 aircraft from nations such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. This multinational drill highlights maritime safety and security operations in critical trade routes and runs from January 16 to January 24.
While the AFP is not directly participating, it is engaged remotely through the IORIS, a European Union-funded communication platform designed for maritime crisis coordination and information sharing.
Fontanel reiterated that France remains committed to regional stability through its active engagement in the Indo-Pacific, citing French President Emmanuel Macron’s 2018 Indo-Pacific strategy as a framework for dialogue and dispute resolution.
Expanding Defense Collaboration
France’s presence in the Philippines has grown significantly in recent years. In 2024, France participated in the Balikatan exercises, deployed its Pegase 24 Air and Space Force to Clark Air Base, and hosted three port calls by French naval ships. Additionally, a defense mission was established in Manila last June to further bilateral engagements.
Aside from maritime security, France is also eager to collaborate with the Philippines on maritime safety and environmental protection initiatives.
The February visit of Charles de Gaulle signifies not only France’s deepening ties with the Philippines but also its broader commitment to fostering cooperation across the Indo-Pacific.
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MANILA – Today, Tuesday, January 21, 2025, three weather systems are expected to bring rainfall to various parts of the Philippines.
The easterlies, shear line, and northeast monsoon, also known as the “amihan,” will impact different regions of the country.
The shear line will bring scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms to Northern and Eastern Samar. Meanwhile, the easterlies will cause scattered rain showers over the Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur.
PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration) has warned that moderate to heavy rainfall in these areas could potentially lead to flash floods or landslides.
The northeast monsoon will bring light rains to Cagayan Valley, Aurora, and Quezon, with isolated light rains expected over the rest of Luzon. The rest of the country will experience isolated rain showers or thunderstorms due to the easterlies, with the possibility of flash floods or landslides in areas experiencing severe thunderstorms.
Additionally, moderate to strong winds are forecasted over northern and central Luzon, along with moderate to rough coastal waters. Light to moderate winds and slight to moderate seas are expected over the rest of the country.
PAGASA also noted that no low-pressure area has been observed, and there is no potential tropical cyclone formation at this time.
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MANILA – Several parts of the Philippines will experience rain and thunderstorms on Friday (17 Jan 2025), due to the combined effects of three weather systems.
The shear line will continue to bring scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms to Bicol, Quezon, Marinduque, and Oriental Mindoro.
Meanwhile, the easterlies will affect Eastern Visayas, Dinagat Islands, and Surigao del Norte, causing similar weather conditions.
The northeast monsoon will bring rains to Cagayan Valley, the Cordillera region, and Aurora, with moderate to heavy rainfall raising the risk of flash floods and landslides, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Isolated light rains are also expected across the rest of Luzon due to the northeast monsoon. The rest of the country will experience isolated rain showers or thunderstorms, influenced by the easterlies.
PAGASA also warned of strong to gale-force winds and rough to very rough seas across Northern Luzon. Moderate to strong winds and rough seas will continue in the rest of Luzon, while the Visayas and Mindanao will see light to moderate winds and slight to moderate seas.
No low-pressure areas are currently being monitored for potential tropical cyclone formation, PAGASA added.
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MANILA – The Philippines has the potential to become Asia’s premier shopping destination, provided the government fully implements an electronic visa system and a value-added tax (VAT) refund scheme for foreign travelers, according to the administration’s economic czar.
At the National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE) 2024 in Pasay City, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick Go emphasized the importance of these measures. “We need e-visas to attract global shoppers and simplify travel to the Philippines,” Go stated.
He also endorsed the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) proposal for a VAT refund for non-resident tourists. “Most Asian countries offer VAT refunds for tourists; we currently do not. Implementing this would be crucial for our goal of becoming a shopping capital,” Go added. The proposed VAT refund could range from 60 to 90 percent, aligning with practices in other Asian nations.
PRA President Roberto Claudio supported the VAT refund proposal and highlighted its potential benefits. “Once implemented, tourists will likely stay longer, spend more, and explore additional attractions, greatly benefiting our economy,” Claudio said. He also called for the removal of the de minimis rule, which currently exempts low-value online shipments from customs duties, and urged swift action on the Internet Transactions Act to ensure fair competition between online and physical retailers.
Claudio emphasized that the retail sector contributes PHP750 billion annually to the economy and provides 5 million jobs for Filipinos. “Retail brick-and-mortar stores will continue to coexist with online platforms,” he concluded.
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By El Amigo
MANILA — China expressed on Friday (31 May 2024) its willingness to maintain open channels of dialogue and communication with the Philippines amid rising territorial claims in the South China Sea.
On Wednesday (May 29, 2024), China responded to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s concerns regarding new regulations the Chinese Coast Guard issued on the same day.
These regulations, which could lead to the detention of foreign nationals in the disputed waters, were described by Marcos as “worrisome” and an “escalation of the situation.”
President Marcos emphasized his commitment to seizing every opportunity to engage with China, aiming to curb aggressive actions and safeguard the rights of Filipino fishermen in the South China Sea.
During a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated China’s openness to dialogue and communication with the Philippines.
She emphasized the importance of genuine dialogue and the necessity for any agreements reached to be adhered to, cautioning against the continuation of provocations under the guise of seeking dialogue.
This stance underscores the delicate balance both nations seek to maintain amidst their ongoing maritime disputes.
(IA/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Stressing that the Philippines has made “sincere efforts” to implement the order of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Chinese President Xi Jinping to lower the tensions in the South China Sea, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) noted that China’s latest aggressive actions in Ayungin Shoal seem to be questionable.
The DFA on Monday (25 March 2024) morning summoned the chargé d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy following the China Coast Guard’s (CCG) dangerous maneuver against a Philippine vessel on a recent rotation and resupply (RoRe) mission to Ayungin Shoal.
DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said in a statement they summoned the Chinese chargé d’affaires to “convey the Philippines’ strong protest against the aggressive actions” committed by the CCG and Chinese maritime militia.
“In these demarches, the Philippines stressed, among others, that China has no right to be in Ayungin Shoal, a low-tide elevation that lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and continental shelf by the 1982 UNCLOS and as affirmed by the 2016 Arbitral Award,” she said.
The DFA also said the Philippines demands that Chinese vessels leave the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal and the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ) immediately.
“China’s continued interference with the Philippines’ routine and lawful activities in its exclusive economic zone is unacceptable. It infringes upon the Philippines’ sovereign rights and jurisdiction,” the DFA further said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
FIVB president Ari Graça (second from left) makes the announcement with (from left) Volleyball World Chief Executive Officer Finn Taylor, Senator Pia Cayetano, Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara and Philippine Ambassador to Switzerland Bernard Faustino La Madrid Dy.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland — Thirty-two countries, close to half-a-thousand athletes and officials, 16 days of high-intensity action and the Philippines is hosting the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship (MWCH) in 2025.
And the FIVB—Féderacion de International Volleyball—is proud and confident the Philippines would emerge as an excellent solo host of the world championship.
“Today, you will write history again! For the first time ever, the Philippines will host the prestigious FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in 2025!” FIVB president Ari Graça said in awarding the hosting rights to the Philippines at half past noon Wednesday at the FIVB castle fronting Lake Geneva here.
“In an open bidding process, you have overcome many strong bidders to win this race,” Graça said. “ And I am sure you will extend your warm hospitality to all 32 participating men’s teams and the many thousands of international fans who will come to your country in 2025.”
He added: “All of this would not be possible without the hard work of the National Federation and the strong support of the government.”
The FIVB MWCH is scheduled September 12 to 28 2025, with the draw set exactly before the first serve on September 12 this year in Manila.
Senator Pia Cayetano led a 14-member Philippine bid team captained by Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara and supported by Philippine Ambassador to Switzerland Bernard Faustino La Madrid Dy with Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco sending a message of full support to the hosting which the Philippines won over 31 other countries.
“I am ready to accept the responsibility and the privilege for the Philippines to host the Men’s World Championship in 2025,” Suzara said. “It shall definitely be a huge challenge, to mount the single-hosting model, to welcome 32 of the best teams in the world, the highest-ranking officials of the sport and most avid fans of the sport from every corner of the globe.”
“But if there is one thing that we, Filipinos, can do well, it is exactly this—to equally give each and every team the best conditions in order for them to fully focus on the competition and the championship trophy and to make them feel at home right in our own home.”
First hosted by then Czechoslovakia in 1949, the FIVB MWCH—originally a quadrennial competition—has been to Asia only twice before in 1998 and 2006 both in Japan and was shared by two countries in 2018 (Italy and Bulgaria) and 2022 (Poland and Slovenia).
“Our successful bid to host the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship further reinforces our country’s track record in staging world class events,” Cayetano said.
“With the support and commitment of both our government and the private sector, we can be certain that it will be of the same caliber, or even better.”
“As a former national volleyball athlete myself, I am excited that the highest level of men’s volleyball competition will be staged in our very own country, to a nation that loves the sport with passion,” she said. We get to bring this international competition to the Philippines, for the Filipino people to witness it first-hand.”
“The Philippines’ hosting of this global volleyball event bolsters our sports tourism portfolio, driving economic growth, highlighting the country’s diverse array of tourism offerings that promise a truly unforgettable Philippine Experience,” said Frasco in a statement read during the bid ceremony.
“We are eager to showcase to the international volleyball community the many reasons to Love the Philippines: from our award-winning destinations, our mega biodiversity, our deep well of culture and heritage, the tapestry of traditions and talents across our islands, and the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people. “We reiterate the Department of Tourism’s full support and commitment to ensure the successful hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s Championship in 2025.”
Ambassador Dy expressed delight in witnessing the successful awarding to the Philippines the hosting chores for the championship.
“We are proud to be given this opportunity to share the Filipinos’ love for sports and to impart the spirit of unity, hospitality and camaraderie amongst Filipinos and athletes from all over the world,” Dy said.
The Philippine bid team included PNVF Vice President Richard Palou, Secretary-General Jose Donaldo Caringal, Executive Director Marie Louise Principe and Branding Director Jacob Burke and Volleyball Nations League LOC Event Director Pauline Marie Ick and Deputy Event Director Maria Leonor Estampador, Special Assistant to Senator Alan Peter Cayetano Jennifer Anne Reyes, Special Assistant Monica Ann Mitra and Chief of Staff Maria Elizabeth Cheryl Reginaldo to Pia Cayetano, Business Mirror’s Lorenzo Lomibao Jr. and Cignal TV Inc.’s Michael Halili.
With Graça were FIVB General Director Fabio Azevedo, Head of Volleyball Events Alise Kessler and Head of Legal and General Counsel Steve Bock, Volleyball World Chairman Luis Fernando Lima, Chief Executive Officer Finn Taylor, Chief Business Officer Guido Betti, Head of Hosting Marcelo Hargreaves, Chief Finance Officer Florence Galland, Chief Revenue D2C Officer Stephanie Giardina and Head of Sponsorship Oliver Clarke.