You plan to move to the Philippines? Wollen Sie auf den Philippinen leben?

There are REALLY TONS of websites telling us how, why, maybe why not and when you'll be able to move to the Philippines. I only love to tell and explain some things "between the lines". Enjoy reading, be informed, have fun and be entertained too!

Ja, es gibt tonnenweise Webseiten, die Ihnen sagen wie, warum, vielleicht warum nicht und wann Sie am besten auf die Philippinen auswandern könnten. Ich möchte Ihnen in Zukunft "zwischen den Zeilen" einige zusätzlichen Dinge berichten und erzählen. Viel Spass beim Lesen und Gute Unterhaltung!


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Showing posts with label Philippine Daily Inquirer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philippine Daily Inquirer. Show all posts

Thursday, March 7, 2024

4th Impact takes down fundraiser for dogs after backlash from PAWS, netizens

 



By: Hannah Mallorca

INQUIRER.net / 02:45 PM March 06, 2024


The fundraising campaign put up by 4th Impact for their 200 dogs was taken down from GoFundMe’s official website after the girl group received criticism from the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and netizens.

On Feb. 28, the female P-pop girl sought to raise funds to put up a “farm lot for our 200 Shih Tzu dogs” on the online fundraising platform. “Our journey with our beloved dogs began with a gift from our fans: five precious Shih Tzus,” Elvira said in the now-deleted post. 

“Over time, our passion for these furry companions led to unexpected blessings, but also unexpected challenges,” she continued. “But as our family of dogs multiplied, so did the need for space and resources.”

The online fundraising campaign, however, drew flak from netizens and the animal welfare group on social media, with PAWS appearing to point to them as “irresponsible pet owners” in one of their posts.

One of the negative comments comes from Instagram user @docgab_veterinarian, who creates veterinary content on social media.

“Ang pagpaparami ng mga alagang hayop through ‘mating’ sa sariling bahay na walang kaukulang permit ay tinatawag na ‘backyard breeding’ at ito po ay illegal. Lalo na kung ang mga ito ay ibinebenta o pinagkakakitaan,” he wrote. “Ang ‘inbreeding’ naman ay ang pagtatalik ng magkapatid o anak at magulang na hayop. Ito ay nagreresulta sa mas mahinang mga anak na kadalasan ay maraming sakit at komplikasyon.”

(Having many pet animals through “mating” in their home without a permit is called “backyard breeding” and it’s illegal. Especially if it’s done to sell and earn money. “Inbreeding,” on the other hand, is the mating between siblings or parent. This results in weak animals who go through sicknesses and other complications.)

“Unlike the irresponsible pet owners in the latest celebrity news, pls never ever let your own pets reproduce as there are already so many dogs and cats in need of homes in shelters, in pounds, and on the streets. Spay and neuter is the way to go,” PAWS wrote on Facebook.

However, as of this writing, 4th Impact’s campaign appears to have been taken down from the online fundraising platform as its contents are “not found.”

Members of the girl group, however, have yet to address the online fundraiser as well.


Monday, March 4, 2024

Miss Universe Philippines 2024 delegates turn up the heat in swimsuit portraits

(from left to right) Cyrille Payumo, Pampanga; Ahtisa Manalo, Quezon Province; Victoria Velasquez Vincent, Bacoor | Images: Facebook/Miss Universe Philippines
 

By: Armin P. Adina


The 2024 Miss Universe Philippines pageant continues to excite Filipino pageant fans, this time with the release of the official swimsuit portraits of the delegates.

The national pageant organization shared on its official social media accounts the photos of all the delegates to this year’s competition.

The roster already included Kananga’s new representative, Phoebe Arrianana Torita, who replaced Natasha Jung who backed out after the press presentation of the contestants.

Jung had previously competed in the Miss World Philippines and Binibining Pilipinas pageants and was crowned Miss Caloocan a few months before winning the Miss Kananga title.

She had already participated in the official presentation of the delegates to this year’s competition held at the grand ballroom of Hilton Manila at the Newport complex in Pasay City on Feb. 18.

This year’s edition of the Miss Universe Philippines pageant did not accept individual applicants. Delegates must be sent by “Accredited Partners” who are authorized to select the official candidates.

The contenders have either won their respective local pageants, or were appointed by the Accredited Partners.

These partners are responsible for preparing the delegates for the national stage, and providing for all of their needs as they compete for the crown.

This year’s delegates are competing to succeed Michelle Dee, who became the most awarded delegate in the 2023 Miss Universe pageant.

Dee finished in the Top 10 of the competition, topped the fan vote, was the leader in the national costume poll, was one of the three “gold finalists” of the “Voice for Change” initiative by Miss Universe crown provider Mouawad, and received the “Spirit of Carnival” award from Carnival Cruises.

No final date of competition has been announced as of this writing, but the eventual winner will represent the Philippines in the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico later this year.


UST rallies past FEU to stay unbeaten in UAAP women’s volleyball


UST Golden Tigresses celebrate during a victory over FEU Lady Tamaraws in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

By: June Navarro - Reporter / @junavINQ

Philippine Daily Inquirer / 10:16 PM March 03, 2024


MANILA, Philippines–University of Santo Tomas rediscovered its deadly form just in time to snatch victory from near defeat at the expense of Far Eastern University, 22-25, 21-25, 25-23, 25-20, 15-7, on Sunday night at the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball.

Staring at a probable setback, the Tigresses rose from two sets down and survived another five-setter for the second time around to keep their unblemished record intact after four games.

Angeline Poyos delivered 21 attacks from her game-high 24 points and Margaret Banagua powered her way to 13 points and four blocks, but it was the solid contributions of Xyza Gula and Mae Coronado that helped the Tigresses restore order in a daring comeback.

John Amores receives ‘words of encouragement’ from VP Sara Duterte

Gula fired 12 attacks out of 13 points and Coronado had eight points and three blocks, justifying the decision of coach Kungfu Reyes from plucking them off the bench beginning in the third set.

“We have an old rivalry with FEU and we expected this. Luckily, we were able to recover and play within our system,” said Reyes after the Tigresses negated their 40 errors with another tight win.

Cassie Carballo tossed in 25 excellent sets, Bernadett Pepito had 20 digs and 24 receptions for the Tigresses, who likewise survived defending champion La Salle in a five-setter a week ago.

“We’re down by two, but the determination to win was there. We just fought for every point, for every set,” said Reyes.

Banagua positioned UST in clinching the opening set with a powerful down-the-line kill and followed it up with a block that put them ahead.

But Faida Bakanke punched a crosscourt and deflected Jonna Perdido’s attack, instantly shifting the tide in FEU’s favor. Gerzel Petalio then scored on a push and ended the set with an off-the-block strike.

Jean Asis got into the groove in the second set, delivering four attacks for the Lady Tamaraws in a 7-2 run that reversed the trend.

Errors then mounted for the Tigresses with Poyos and Regina Jurado faltering at set point that accelerated another failed effort.

The Tigresses refused to call it a night though, stealing the third set in a roller-coaster ride that ended on a pair of hits unleashed by Banagua and Coronado.

Gula and Coronado got into the act in the fourth set as the Tigresses weathered FEU’s rally. With UST safely ahead, a perfectly prepared toss that Poyos smashed tied the match, forcing the decider.

Coronado and Gula set the tone for a carnage in the fifth, pushing the Tigresses to an early 4-1 advantage.

“I told her (Coronado) that she should always be ready and she delivered,” said Reyes.

Back-to-back attacks by Poyos, a combination play completed by Jurado and Banagua’s block further widened the gap before Gula capped the night with two straight crosscourt kills.


Friday, March 1, 2024

Sharon Cuneta reminds fans: Money amounts to nothing if we’re unhealthy


By: Anne Pasajol

INQUIRER.net / 11:13 AM March 01, 2024


Sharon Cuneta recalled how she shifted to a healthier lifestyle when she turned 50, saying this decision “changed” her life and improved her well-being.

The Megastar, who has been vocal about her health ordeals, underscored the importance of prioritizing one’s health, through a vlog on her YouTube channel on Wednesday, Feb. 28.

“I lost weight when I decided I really wanted to change my life and my outlook on health, and improve the way I live every day,” she said.

The veteran actress-singer then spoke about how the COVID-19 pandemic served as a “wake-up call” not just for her but for the public as well.

“It showed us the reality of the old saying na gamit na gamit na pero totoo, ‘yung ‘health is wealth,” she stated. “Because kahit nga naman ano ang pag-aari mo, kahit gaano ka kayaman o kaligaya sa buhay mo, kung hindi okay ang health mo or you don’t make it a priority, it amounts to nothing—everything na meron tayo—if we’re unhealthy.”

(It showed us the reality of the old and very common saying: “Health is wealth.” Because whatever you own, however rich or happy you are with your life, if you don’t have good health or if you don’t make it a priority, it amounts to nothing—everything that we own—if we’re unhealthy.)

Opening up more on her realizations during the pandemic, she continued, “Sabi nila, most health conditions are caused by stress so you have to be careful about that.”

“Finding this out really made me appreciate that I thought of shifting to a healthier lifestyle. I was 50 when I made that decision,” she looked back. “I wanted to create a better version of myself and that was exactly eight years ago.”

Cuneta earlier appealed for prayers as she disclosed that some aspects of her body’s condition had worsened, and that she had to undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

In her most recent health update, she revealed she has been undergoing physical therapy because her leg has been in pain and that she has been limping for more than a month.


Senior citizens need not show prescription for OTC drugs


 

FDA CLARIFICATION Complaints about pharmacies requiring a doctor’s prescription for seniors buying over-the-counter medicines have prompted the Food and Drug Administration to issue a clarification. —GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE


By: Dexter Cabalza - Reporter / @dexcabalzaINQ

Philippine Daily Inquirer / 05:50 AM March 01, 2024


Senior citizens do not need to present a prescription from their physicians to get the mandated 20-percent discount they are entitled to when buying over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, including vitamins and food supplements, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The clarification made under FDA Advisory No. 2024-0429 and signed by FDA Director General Dr. Samuel Zacate was issued on Wednesday. It was addressed to all drug outlets, hospital pharmacies and healthcare professionals to avoid confusion.

According to the FDA, Administrative Order No. 2012-0007-A of the Department of Health (DOH) states that those age 60 and above are not required to get a doctor’s prescription to avail themselves of a 20-percent discount in “the purchase of OTC medicines.”

Under the DOH administrative order, medicines are defined as “prescription and nonprescription/over-the-counter drugs, both generic and branded, including vitamins and mineral supplements medically prescribed by the attending physician and approved by the [DOH and FDA], which are intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of human disease or sickness.”

The 20-percent discount privilege for seniors is provided for under Republic Act No. 9994, or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010.Requirements

Citing the law, the FDA noted that in order to avail themselves of the discount, seniors or their representatives can present any form of identification (senior citizens ID card, passport or document) showing their birthday. They must also bring their purchase slip booklets for recording purposes (name of OTC medicine purchased, quantity, when and where it was purchased).

In an earlier radio interview, FDA spokesperson Pamela Angeline Sevilla said they had been receiving complaints from the elderly about pharmacies asking for doctors’ prescriptions when purchasing OTC drugs.

“This should not be the case, because it is clear in the law that when buying OTC items, the only documentary requirement that senior citizens need to present is their senior citizen ID or any ID proving their senior status,” she added.

The FDA instead urged pharmacies and similar establishments to assist and educate the elderly in distinguishing between prescription and OTC drugs to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.

“Let’s help our seniors instead of asking them for a prescription even if we know that the medicine they are buying is OTC and does not need one in the first place,” Sevilla said.

To determine whether a medicine is a “prescription drug (RX)” or OTC drug, the public can access verification.fda.gov.ph/ALL_DrugProductslist.php. which lists down all of the nearly 30,000 FDA-registered human medicines available.

Senior citizens can also file complaints before the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs in their respective local government units against pharmacies that do not comply with RA 9994.

The FDA warned that establishments which fail to honor the 20-percent discount on medicines for the elderly face imprisonment ranging from two to six years, plus a fine of P50,000 to P100,000 for the first offense.

Their business permit, permit to operate, franchise and other similar privileges may also be revoked by authorities.

If the offender is a corporation, partnership or company with a similar structure, its officials such as the president, general manager, managing partner or such other officer charged with managing its business affairs shall also be held liable.


Monday, February 26, 2024

Ced Domingo brings maturity, composure from Thailand stint


Akari Chargers’ Ced Domingo she rejoins the PVL in the All-Filipino Conference. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net


By: Lance Agcaoili - @inquirerdotnet


MANILA, Philippines —Maturity and composure were among the things that Ced Domingo developed most in her first overseas stint where she helped Nakhon Ratchasima accomplish a successful title defense in the Volleyball Thailand League.

“One thing that I really learned coming home from Thailand is my maturity and my composure as an individual because of different kinds of instances in games,” said Domingo in Filipino after her Akari debut ended up with a  25-21, 25-18, 25-12, 25-18 loss to Cignal in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Saturday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“I learned a lot from my teammates like Onuma Sittirak and other legends in Thailand. It’s super nice playing alongside them. I really just can’t wait to apply all the learnings from Thailand here at Akari.”

Domingo, who decided to sign with the Thai team last year, was instrumental in her first overseas stint as the Cat Devil finished the elimination round with a 10-2 record as the No. 2 seed behind Diamond Food, which her team beat in the semifinals round and final.

The 24-year-old middle blocker said she’s lucky to be part of Nakhon Ratchasima as she became the latest Filipino to win a title overseas after Jaja Santiago, who won the Japan V.Cup championship with her former club Ageo Medics in 2021, and Bryan Bagunas who he led Win Streak to a dominant title run last year in the Top Volleyball League in Taiwan.

“I got lucky. It’s a ‘who could have thought’ moment for me because I had no expectations coming there. I just wanted to experience playing in Thailand and come out of my comfort zone to unlock my potential as a player,” Domingo said.

“My teammates are strong and they have the same level of competitiveness and mentality as my former team,  Creamline. I felt that I was in the right team.”

Domingo, who found her new home at Akari, admitted that it’s overwhelming to the changes and transitions but she’s taking the challenge in stride.

“My mindset going back here is adapting Akari’s system and then from there, I will apply my learnings from Thailand,” she said.


Sunday, February 18, 2024

UAAP volleyball: Angel Canino has ‘matured’ in her second year, says coach


La Salle Lady Spikers’ Angel Canino in the UAAP volleyball. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

By: Lance Agcaoili - @inquirerdotnet


MANILA, Philippines — La Salle coach Ramil De Jesus believes Angel Canino has become a more mature player in her second year with the Lady Spikers in time for their title-retention bid in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament.

Canino fired 14 points built on 11 attacks and three blocks to kick off her sophomore season and jumpstart La Salle’s campaign with a rousing 25-16, 25-16, 25-18 victory over Adamson on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.

De Jesus praised the reigning MVP and Season 85 Rookie of the Year for showing her maturity and leadership, following the departure of graduates Jolina Dela Cruz and Mars Alba as well as Fifi Sharma and Justine “I can see that Angel has matured when it comes to playing compared to last season when I handled her just a few months,” De Jesus said after earning his 300th win.

Canino was happy to contribute and show their preseason preparation including a training camp in Thailand but she is taking it one game at a time before thinking of defending their title.

“One game at a time. After this game, we need more work harder and work out the next obstance and challenges one by one,” said the La Salle star.

The Lady Spikers are still continuing to adjust with their current players, who are leaning on new main setter Julia Coronel and libero Lyka De Leon.


Dongallo leads UE past Ateneo in UAAP volleyball women’s opener


 Casiey Dongallo (9) and the UE Lady Warriors celebrate their win over Ateneo Blue Eagles in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net


By: June Navarro - Reporter / @junavINQ


MANILA, Philippines–Casiey Dongallo has been augured as the next big thing in college volleyball.

The rookie spiker from Catmon, Cebu was good as advertised, scoring 27 points in her collegiate debut to spearhead University of East’s come-from-behind 20-25, 25-18, 25-23, 25-18 victory over Ateneo on Saturday at the opener of the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball.

Dongallo capped her heroics by delivering the Lady Warriors’ last three attacks, shattering the hopes of the Blue Eagles from stretching it further to the limit.

“I’m just thankful to my teammates. I cannot have 27 points without them,” said Dongallo, who compiled the most number of points for a rookie in her first UAAP game.

Kizzie Madriaga, Dongallo’s high school teammate from the California Academy, produced 16 excellent sets and libero Angelica Reyes took care of the defensive end with 22 digs.

“I was able to score those points with the help of my teammates and Kizzie. When I got nervous at the start, my teammates were there to back me up,” said the 18-year-old Dongallo.

Lyann De Guzman compiled 18 points and had 16 digs for the Blue Eagles, who lost for the first time against UE since Season 73 back in 2010.

“This is the first time in 14 years. The reason why we came to UE is to make history and this is a part of it. The rest is going to be a process, so it’s going to take a while,” said UE assistant coach Obet Vital.

The Lady Warriors won only six games the past six seasons, winning only one match each last year and in 2022.

“If we win two (this season), we’ve already matched the last two years. It’s going to be a bonus if we win three. It’s a new system that we brought to UE. We’re happy about the win, but there’s a lot of work ahead of us,” said Vital.

Dongallo, one of the most sought-after high school players before committing to UE with Grace Fernandez, Jelaica Gajero and Madriaga, bagged the MVP plum in CAL’s title-winning campaign in the Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League last year.

The third set was a real nip-and-tuck affair with UE cutting itself loose from the tight contest with less effort by simply watching the Blue Eagles frustrate themselves.

Zey Pacia’s long wallop that sailed beyond the endline shattered a series of deadlocks that ended at 20.

Then, Riza Nogales’ tip created more space for the Lady Warriors before Tuku’s attempt got smothered at set point.

De Guzman actually scored the tournament’s first kill and several plays later finished off their rivals in the first set with an attack that bounced off the fingers of Dongallo before falling in.

Geezel Tsunashima’s series of strikes set the tone for Ateneo’s opening-frame victory, putting them ahead early, 8-3, before Dongallo and Madriaga made the Warriors look better.

But after Takako Fujimoto drove in the first ace of the season, 16-11, the Blue Eagles charged ahead with De Guzman taking control.

Fortunes reversed in the next set as the Lady Warriors shifted the trend in their favor by seizing the upper hand early built on the efforts of Nogales and Yesha Rojo.


Here’s what you’ll need to join the 60th Binibining Pilipinas pageant


 Reigning Binibining Pilipinas winners (from left) Atasha Reign Parani, Anna Valencia Lakirini, Angelica Lopez and Katrina Anne Johnson. Image: INQUIRER.net/Armin P. Adina


By: Armin P. Adina


Here's what you will need to join the 60th Binibining Pilipinas pageant


Avid pageant aficionados had been brimming with anticipation as to when the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) would make its “the search is on” announcement for the 60th anniversary edition. And the wait was finally over after the organization made the call before Valentine’s Day. Now they followed it up with the list of requirements that the aspirants must meet.


Interested applicants will need to download the official application form at www.bbpilipinas.com and submit their accomplished form at the BPCI Office on the 8th floor of Aurora Tower on Gen. Malvar St. at the Araneta City in Quezon City.


The competition is open to Filipino citizens who are born in the Philippines, or have reacquired their citizenship under RA 9225. Those who have also earned natural Filipino citizenship even when they are born outside the Philippines may still join. They may or may not have resided within the Philippines.


Applicants will also need to show their high school or college diploma, present a medical certificate for both physical and mental health and well-being, and a certificate of good moral character provided by a school, church or professional organization.


Ladies also need to bring their photo set cards composed of one close-up and one full body shot. A copy of their birth certificate will also be required.


The deadline for applications is set on March 22, but no final screening schedule has been announced as of this writing.


Bb. Pilipinas is the first and longest-running national beauty pageant in the country. It has produced the country’s most well-loved international beauty queens since its establishment in 1964.


To date, the national competition has collected four wins in the Miss Universe pageant, five victories in the Miss International pageant, two crowns each from the Miss Intercontinental and Miss Globe tilts, and several more triumphs in other contests.


Last year, Bb. Pilipinas queens posted podium finishes in their respective global competitions. Nicole Borromeo was third runner-up in the Miss International pageant, while Anna Valencia Lakirini was second runner-up in the Miss Globe contest.


Angelica Lopez, who was crowned Bb. Pilipinas International during the national pageant’s 59th edition held last year, is scheduled to compete in the 62nd Miss International competition on Nov. 12.


Friday, December 29, 2023

PH to China: Respect, sincerity are key to sea row dialogue


By: Frances Mangosing - Reporter / @FMangosingINQPhilippine Daily Inquirer 

The Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Sindangan isblocked by a China Coast Guard vessel during a resupply mission to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in October. china sea row dialogue

HARASSMENT The Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Sindangan is blocked by a China Coast Guard vessel during a resupply mission to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in October. —GERALDFORD TICKE

China should first stop its hostile actions at sea before it enters into a dialogue with the Philippines, an official of the National Security Council (NSC) said on Tuesday, amid worsening tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

The territorial disputes between the two countries have grown more tense this year as Beijing seeks to assert its maritime dominance in the South China Sea.

“Dialogues can only succeed in an atmosphere of mutual respect and sincerity between two sovereign nations. The Philippines is ready to reciprocate provided that the bullying, harassment, and aggressive actions are ended immediately,” NSC spokesperson and Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said in a statement.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Monday said China was open to a dialogue, stressing her government was ready to work with the Philippines to handle maritime issues through negotiation and consultation.

But Mao, at the same time, asserted Beijing’s claims over nearly the entire South China Sea, including those within the 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Philippines.

“China will not weaken in its resolve to protect its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” she said.

“For months, the Philippines has been making provocations on Ren’ai Jiao (Ayungin Shoal) and other issues and drawing forces outside the region into those issues. China is compelled under those circumstances to take necessary measures to firmly respond to it,” she said.

Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal is a low-tide elevation within the Philippines’ EEZ and continental shelf, one of the country’s nine occupied features in the Kalayaan Island Group, or the Spratlys. Chinese ships have been harassing resupply vessels to BRP Sierra Madre, the grounded warship that serves as a Philippine military outpost in Ayungin.

“We welcome China’s offer of dialogue, negotiation, and consultation but for it to prosper, China must immediately stop its bullying, aggressive actions, and illegal moves in the West Philippine Sea which seriously undermine… regional peace and security,” Malaya said.

A 2016 arbitral ruling voided China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea, but Beijing has refused to recognize the decision.

Root of tensions

According to Malaya, China is “the only country that believes its own propaganda” and no single nation has expressed support for its so-called 10-dash line that supposedly defines China’s territory.

The boundaries set by China overlap into the exclusive economic zones of rival claimants like the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam.

“The root of all these tensions is its non-adherence to international law, Unclos (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea), and the 2016 Arbitral Award. As the world has seen, it is not the Philippines that has been engaged in provocations, bullying and aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea,” Malaya said.

“It is not the Philippines that has been doing laser pointing, water cannoning, dangerous maneuvers, blocking, swarming, etc. In fact, the Philippines has been very restrained and responsible but the same cannot be said of China,” he said.

Chinese activities against Philippine vessels, harassment of fishermen and other activities “that infringe… upon the Philippines’ sovereignty and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea are clear violations of international law,” he added.

Last week, the top diplomats of the Philippines and China spoke by telephone where they discussed the territorial disputes.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo and his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, “noted the importance of dialogue” in addressing the issues of concern.

Wang earlier accused the Philippines of “constantly provoking trouble at sea and undermining China’s legitimate and lawful rights.”


Domestic law

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar, meanwhile, said Beijing was the one “committing all the violations” at sea, in response to accusations by China’s state-controlled newspaper, the People’s Daily, that the Philippines was stirring tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

“The Philippines relies on the support of external forces, ignores China’s goodwill and restraint, and repeatedly provokes China’s principles and bottom line,” said the commentary.

But Aguilar, at the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon program by state-run People’s Television, said: “The Philippines is not provoking conflict. We follow international law and we are only implementing our domestic law, meaning the limits of our territorial waters and exclusive economic zone where we have sovereign rights.”

He accused China of starting hostile actions that sometimes risk collisions at sea.

The Philippines, Aguilar said, is boosting its alliances and has the support of other nations because its claims are backed by international law, including Unclos. —WITH A REPORT FROM REUTERS



Monday, December 11, 2023

Vigilance is better than cure


 

Philippine Daily Inquirer / 05:03 AM December 10, 2023


Don’t worry, don’t panic. This essentially was the message of the Department of Health (DOH) in addressing concerns over the detected cases of mycoplasma pneumoniae or “walking pneumonia” in the country. The four patients diagnosed with the disease have already recovered, it said, and that such cases were “not new.”


“Only 4 (0.08 percent) of the confirmed [influenza-like illnesses] cases from January up to Nov. 25, 2023 were due to M. pneumoniae or ‘walking pneumonia’ … More than half of confirmed ILI cases were due to other well-known and commonly detected pathogens,” the DOH said in a statement. It noted that one case of mycoplasma pneumoniae was reported in January, another in July, and two more in September.


Three years of anxiety

But who can blame Filipinos for being skeptical, even paranoid, given the DOH’s track record? It has only been a few months since the global health emergency over COVID-19 was lifted and the local economy started to recover, but the public has not forgotten the three years of anxiety and uncertainties marked by the loss of jobs caused by the economic slowdown, and worse, the loss of lives due to the coronavirus. In early 2020, when COVID-19 was first detected in the country, the DOH said it was on top of the situation. It had to take one death—the first death from the coronavirus outside China where it originated—before the government took drastic measures and imposed a travel ban on international flights and, by then, the virus had already spread. The government would eventually impose the world’s longest lockdown.


Indeed, there might be no need to panic since seasonal influenza or the flu is common at this time of the year. There is also the assumption that the government has learned its lessons from the COVID-19 crisis—but apparently not. The DOH reported a 45-percent increase in influenza-like illnesses from Jan. 1 to Oct. 13, or a total of 151,375 cases; however, this has only been highlighted following reports of walking pneumonia in other parts of the world. Moreover, the DOH admitted that some cases may not have been officially categorized as walking pneumonia because doctors administered antibiotics right away and no longer recommended further tests for the patients. Clearly, there is still a lack of transparency in health reporting as well as thorough checking of viruses by health authorities.


No cause for alarm

Mycoplasma pneumoniae, described as an “atypical” bacterium that causes lung infection, has been detected in China, Denmark, France, and the United States, among others. In the United Kingdom, there has been a rise in pertussis or whooping cough, a bacterial infection of the lungs. Health officials have so far found no cause for alarm and these cases have been attributed to normal seasonal increases in viral and bacterial disease and the easing of restrictions that has seen the return of normal public interactions and habits.


Mycoplasma pneumoniae symptoms include fatigue, sore throat or pharyngitis, low fever, chest pain, cough, sneezing, and headache—signs that are similar to other respiratory conditions like bronchitis, flu, and the common cold. Doctors warned that the coughing up of a mix of mucus and saliva can persist beyond seven days, unlike common viral infections that last only five days. The DOH said that while the infection can be mild, vulnerable individuals can be at risk of developing a more severe form of health condition.


The national government has not issued any directive yet but the DOH has advised Filipinos to wear masks again and observe other preventive measures including handwashing, ensuring adequate ventilation, and vaccination. The Bureau of Corrections has reimposed the mandatory face mask policy within its facilities, especially in the New Bilibid Prison, which has major congestion problems that could pose risks to inmates when respiratory infections spread.


Like headless chickens

By now, the government should be proactive in preventing the rise of infectious diseases, checking hospital preparedness, and accelerating vaccination efforts. That bizarre waves of bacterial infections have been observed in other parts of the world warrants the government, particularly the DOH, to be more vigilant and not take chances. We don’t want to see our health system being overwhelmed again and health authorities running around like headless chickens while billions in taxpayer money are lost to inflated purchases and other forms of corruption. The public, too, should do their part. In countries like Japan, wearing a mask has been the default precaution taken at the first sign of flu—that should also be the case here, especially during the busy holiday season when malls are packed making it easy to catch a virus.


COVID should have taught us that we cannot take our health for granted, and taught our government that, indeed, prevention—as well as transparency and extra vigilance— is always more practical and less expensive than cure.


Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Mindanao folk uneasy amid strong aftershocks

 


SAFER HERE Residents of Barangay Bitoon in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, on Monday set up makeshift shelters in a school ground for fear of staying in their houses, which might give way to strong aftershocks in the wake of Saturday’s magnitude 7.4 earthquake. —ERWIN M. MASCARIÑAS


By: Germelina Lacorte - @inquirerdotnetPhilippine Daily Inquirer / 04:40 AM December 05, 2023


DAVAO CITY — Residents in several areas in Mindanao could not rest after another strong earthquake struck Surigao del Sur on Monday, amid the continuing strong aftershocks from the main magnitude 7.4 tremor that hit off the province’s town of Hinatuan on Saturday.


The aftershocks from the magnitude 7.4 quake were also strong, reverberating in many areas across the Surigao and Agusan provinces, with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) recording close to 2,000 aftershocks as of Monday.

The series of quakes have prompted many residents in Surigao del Sur, particularly in the town of Hinatuan, to avoid staying indoors and instead move into makeshift tents set up outside their homes and nearby school grounds.

At 3:49 a.m. on Monday, a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck Cagwait town in Surigao del Sur, at a depth of 30 kilometers (18 miles), some 72 km northeast of the town, the Phivolcs said.

It was felt at Intensity 5 in Cagwait; Intensity 4 in Surigao del Sur’s Tandag City and in Tarragona town of Davao Oriental; and at Intensity 3 in Iligan City, Cagayan de Oro City, and in Davao Oriental’s towns of Banaybanay and Lupon and Mati City. This was the second strong earthquake to hit Surigao del Sur and the latest in a slew of strong quakes—all concentrated in the same area—days after the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck off the coast of Hinatuan on Dec. 2.

From the Cagwait quake, the Phivolcs recorded 190 aftershocks, as of 1 p.m. on Monday, ranging from 1.8 in magnitude to 5.7 in magnitude.


Class suspension

On Monday, some local government units in Mindanao affected by the magnitude 7.4 quake called off classes while school buildings and other private and government structures underwent safety inspections.

In Davao City, Acting Mayor Melchor Quitain, who suspended classes in public schools and implemented a work-from-home scheme in all government offices, said it was done to safeguard the welfare of the public. This developed as Phivolcs recorded a total of 1,898 aftershocks as of 1 p.m. on Monday, with magnitude, ranging from 1.4 to 6.6, as monitored by the Phivolcs Bislig City station.

In Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur province, Mayor Kirk Asis suspended classes at all levels, both in public and private schools on Monday to give way for a thorough inspection of public infrastructures and to assess the damage that the city had incurred. Some cracks have been noted in the city’s Catholic church building, while part of Prince Supermarket’s facade had collapsed, following Saturday’s quake.

The Davao del Norte provincial disaster risk reduction and management office also reported the suspension of in-person classes at all levels in the cities of Panabo and Samal Island and the towns of Braulio E. Dujali, Asuncion, Carment, Santo Tomas, and New Corella to give way to building assessment.

In Mati City, Davao Oriental’s provincial capital, Mayor Michelle Rabat suspended all classes in public schools on Monday, even as the 2,697 people who fled their houses after the quake had returned home on Sunday after the Phivolcs lifted its tsunami alert.

In Agusan del Sur, residents asked the provincial and local governments to provide vehicles to fetch students in other areas of Mindanao affected by the Dec. 2 earthquake.


Panicking

Police Staff Sgt. Joseph Lambo of the Hinatuan police said Sunday evening’s strong quake sent people rushing out of their homes again.

“They were panicking due to the memory of the previous night’s quake,” Lambo told Agence France-Presse (AFP). He said police were checking for any further damage or casualties.

Saturday’s quake triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific region and sent residents along the east coast of Mindanao fleeing buildings, evacuating a hospital, and seeking higher ground.

There have been no reports of major damage to buildings or infrastructure so far, disaster officials told AFP earlier on Sunday.

A 30-year-old man died in Bislig City, also in Surigao del Sur, when a wall inside his house collapsed on top of him, said local disaster official Pacifica Pedraverde.

Some roads in the city were cracked during the earthquake and aftershocks but vehicles could still drive on them, she said.

A pregnant woman was killed in Tagum City in Davao del Norte province, the national disaster agency said, without providing details.

Two people suffered minor injuries from falling debris in Tandag City, about 100 km north of Bislig, an official said.

The Phivolcs initially warned of a “destructive tsunami” after the first quake on Saturday, expecting “life-threatening” waves, though none occurred and the warning later ended.

The recent temblors came some two weeks after a magnitude 6.7 quake hit Mindanao, killing at least nine people, shaking buildings and causing part of a shopping mall ceiling to collapse.


Thursday, November 16, 2023

Nearly half of new HIV cases in PH are teens


Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa (Photo from the Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau)


By: Kathleen de Villa - Reporter / @kdevillaINQPhilippine Daily Inquirer 


MANILA, Philippines — The number of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases in the country has nearly doubled this year, with almost half of them involving teens, which could be attributed to a new strain of the virus, according to Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa.


Citing the latest figures, Herbosa said on Tuesday that HIV infections grew to about 50 new cases per day, from last year’s average daily count of 22.


Younger people aged 15 to 24 are the most affected at 47 percent, he added.


“There’s a new subvariant that’s quite more infectious and this is the reason we’re finding this increase in cases,” he told reporters, citing infectious diseases specialist Dr. Edsel Salvana. “It’s been happening even before. We’re just detecting it [now] because we’re concentrated so much on COVID,” he said.


In 2022, a group of researchers led by Chris Wymant found that a new HIV variant called subtype B could cause a more severe infection and individuals hit by this strain may have “an average viral load about four times higher than usual,” according to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).


Herbosa said on Monday that he had a meeting with Vice President Sara Duterte, who also heads the Department of Education, and that one of the topics they discussed was the rapidly growing number of HIV cases, specifically on the “interventions” to take in terms of health literacy.


“We forged a stronger collaboration [and] convergence between … on the efforts we will put for adolescent health,” he said.


He added other health issues they tackled were teenage pregnancy, substance abuse, mental health, and nutrition.


The Philippines has one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the world dating back to 1984, UNAIDS said.


In 2017, the DOH declared the epidemic a national emergency because of the rapid rise of infections.


Monday, November 13, 2023

Pauline Amelinckx receives Miss Supranational’s ‘Woman of Substance’ award


Pauline Amelinckx (right) receives the ‘Woman of Substance award from reigning Miss Supranational Andrea Aguilera./SCREENSHOT FROM MISS SUPRANATIONAL FACEBOOK VIDEO


By: Armin P. AdinaI NQUIRER.net


Pauline Amelinck received the “Woman of Substance” award from the Miss Supranational organization during the finals of The Miss Philippines Culture and Heritage Celebration last month, the third time that the international pageant has bestowed such a distinction.


“It is a small token to show our respect to Pau-Pau for her dedication, speaking out against body shaming and her #FromTheGroundUpCSI project, which focused on the importance of #environmentalprotection through education,” the Miss Supranational pageant said on social media. The two previous recipients of the award were Jesica Fitriana from Indonesia, and Dr. Julita Kitwe Mbangula from Namibia.


Fitriana was second runner-up in the 2019 Miss Supranational pageant. Then-reigning queen Anntonia Porsild from Thailand bestowed the recognition to her in a trip to Indonesia to see the project initiated by the Indonesia beauty in Bogor in West Java, creating safe spaces for children infected with HIV/AIDs by their parents.


Mbangbula, a physician, finished in the Top 24 of last year’s competition. She was recognized for her medical outreach programs, social welfare initiatives, and health education programs online and in disadvantaged communities. The organization awarded her during the 2023 Miss and Mister Supranational Namibia pageant in March.


Amelinckx finished strong in the 2023 Miss Supranational pageant in Poland in July, placing second to Ecuador’s Andrea Aguilera. The reigning queen flew to the Philippines and personally handed over the trophy to the Filipino beauty during the final competition show of The Miss Philippines at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Oct. 24.


“My Pau-Pau, for me it is an honor to give you this third-ever Woman of Substance award. Because of your dedication, for never giving up, for working so, so hard for your community, you deserve it. Pau-Pau, we, our Supra family, we are so proud of you. We love you so much,” Aguilera said.

The awarding took place after Amelinckx delivered her farewell speech as The Miss Philippines. She became the first women to hold the title after Miss Universe Philippines National Director Shamcey Supsup-Lee awarded her the crown upon her arrival from Poland in August.

This year’s The Miss Philippines is the national search’s first edition. It is a sister competition of the Miss Universe Philippines pageant under Empire Holdings Inc. Amelinckx relinquished her national title to Alethea Ambrosio, who made an impact by answering in straight Filipino in the contest.


Tuesday, November 7, 2023

12 signs it’s almost Christmas in the Philippines


Christmas spirit can be found in almost anything: traffic, your inability to wake up early, your “nagpaparamdam” inaanaks, and best of all, in puto bumbong, bibingka, and castañas stalls


Yes, I know that technically Philippine Christmas begins in September. But! Since we also observe All Souls and All Saints Days, and by extension, Halloween, all that yuletide preparation comes to a pause come the last week of October and well into the first few days of November.

This article argues that the real precursors of Christmas in the country are on full, uninterrupted display after Nov. 2. These things are undeniably what constitutes a Paskong Pinoy, for better or worse.


It’s harder to wake up in the morning

Climate change may have messed up our two seasons (dry “not summer” and wet or rainy season) but still, colder mornings prevail during “ber” months, thanks to the onset of Amihan, which started Oct. 20 this year. This makes waking up to your alarms an even bigger undertaking now, a palpable sign that indeed Christmas is here.


It’s hard to get anything done, period

Chalk it up to cooler weather or to a longing to fast forward to holiday vacation but you may find it difficult to do your usual task with energy and gusto. It doesn’t help too that a lot of people are going on vacation this time of the year to beat the Christmas rush.


Balikbayans are everywhere

There’s no place like home, and no Christmas like a Filipino Christmas, which is why many OFWs and immigrants are going home to celebrate with their families as early as now—again to beat skyrocketing airfare and the deluge of merrymakers come December.


Everyone out and shopping

Because bonuses are given out towards the end of the year, you can expect more Filipinos going out to shop as early as now.


Sales, sales, sales everywhere

And because of previous reasons, businesses pounce on this opportunity to rack up more profits by organizing sales at this time of the year, creating special Christmas bundles and deals to lure shoppers.

To go out shopping and to get to the said sales, you would, of course, need to commute. The deluge of Filipinos wanting to take advantage of these sales with the money they just made results in congested roads. Being stuck in traffic? Not very merry if you ask me.


Mariah Carey blasting everywhere

Luckily, you can count on taxi cabs and shopping establishments (among others) to blast “All I Want for Christmas” to make all these inconveniences somehow bearable. Long live, Lambs!


Puto bumbong, bibingka, and castañas stalls are up

Another upside is that seasonal food is upon us, too. If like us you’ve been craving puto bumbong all year, now’s actually the perfect time to get them—straight out of the steamer poles, slathered with butter, and sprinkled with coconut meat and muscovado sugar.


Countdowns everywhere

And as if you need reminding, Christmas countdowns everywhere—on billboards, on TV and radio shows, on the newspaper—will tell you how many days there are left until Dec. 25.


Christmas lights and parol everywhere

This is probably a giveaway but there’s no other more tangible sign that Christmas is upon us than the kumukutikutitap na Christmas lights and bumubusi-busilak na parol.


Inaanaks randomly making their presence felt

Social media savvy godchildren are also making moves, “randomly” liking your photos, replying to your Facebook Stories, and commenting on your posts. Yeah, that too is a sign that it is Christmas time.


Carollers are roaming around

And if all these other sensory signs fail, you can always count on the merry singing of carollers who go door-to-door belting Mariah Carey songs and contemporary and traditional Filipino yuletide tunes to remind you that indeed ‘tis the season to be jolly.


Friday, October 13, 2023

The stands - An Inquirer Sports Newsletter

 

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October 13, 2023

 

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Led by Favour Onoh, the UP Maroons have flattened the opposition thus far. (UAAP Media)

 

Hey there sports fan,


It's Friday the 13th! But the day has really lost its superstitious mystery and the greatest fear of people when that day and date coincides is the traffic. After all, it is a Friday, and it's also payday.


Luckily, we've got a lot of sports to go home and relax to. So drop your worries for a moment and chill out to this trivia question: The UP Maroons stunned the NU Lady Bulldogs recently, their first win over the college powerhouse since what year?


The answer will come at the end of this letter.


But yes, you read it right the first time. And in case you're thinking, "Well, it is the Maroons, going up against the Lady Bulldogs," please remember that like Ateneo, Univesity of the Philippines has opted to use the same moniker for its men's and women's teams.


So yup, we're talking about UP women's team here. Led by the hardworking Favour Onoh, the Maroons finally scored one over the nation's most fearsome women's college program to produce the stunner of the season so far.


Not only that, it gave the Maroons the early lead in UAAP Season 86. And yes, you can take that satement both ways.


The Maroons in the men's side have kept in stride so far with their women's team, making great use of all those preseason acquisitions to steamroll their way to the top so far. 


On the opposite end of the spectrum, University of Santo Tomas, which also kept the offseason buzzing with its own haul of recruits, continues to search for its footing after slipping into a 13-game spiral last season. Meanwhile, La Salle, whose biggest offseason move was to hire coach Topex Robinson, seems to be doing just fine early on.


It's going to be an exciting UAAP basketball season so keep it here with us as we provide you with varsity content across all our platforms.

 

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Tim Cone returns to Barangay Ginebra in a rush to get some preparation in before the PBA season starts.  (Marlo Cueto)

 

Meanwhile...


After winning the gold medal in the Asian Games, Tim Cone is headed back to Barangay Ginebra, hoping to get some practice in with his "baby" in preparation for the new PBA season. Cone "wrote" his entry into basketball history but is looking to make sure he gets the Gin Kings ready for what could be a grueling season ahead. 


And oh, yes, volleyball. The PVL is getting ready to fire off its next tournament and already, we've got loads of features for you already. Check out our archives for the latest on the next PVL conference here


What we're up to next:


The Asian Games is done, but you can still catch up on the stories you may have missed by checking out our archives here. You know, in case you want to weigh in on this hot-button issue. And, like we said, we will be launching our coverage of volleyball with fresh digital features so watch out for that. And we will start to ease into the coverage of the new PBA season. For the meantime, get your latest varsdity features and stories on the UAAP and NCAA here!



Number of the Week: 2011


The answer to the trivia question above.

 

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QUOTE OF THE WEEK


“I think, stop analyzing. Just enjoy. This is a great moment.”


—Tab Baldwin, Ateneo coach, on people trying to break down how the Philippines won the Asian Games gold medal in men's basketball.

 

There are more trivia questions in our weekly sports quiz which you can access by joining our Viber community, which also featres the freshest sports updates. 


Buy the Inquirer at newsstands, subscribe to our digital edition, Inquirer Plus, visit our online site and follow us on socials (Twitter: @inquirersports; FB: facebook.com/inquirersports) for more stories and updates—or to send us questions or suggestions of stories you'd want to read.


Have a great and safe weekend! See you next Friday.


Francis



Francis T. J. Ochoa is the Sports Editor of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. For comments, suggestions and questions, hit him up on Twitter (@ftjochoaINQ).