DepEd eyes August 29 as the start of classes for School Year 2023-2024

BY MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT

  

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The Department of Education (DepEd) is eyeing Aug. 29 as the school opening date for public schools this incoming School Year (SY) 2023-2024.

(DepEd / MB Visual Content Group)

“We are finalizing the DO [Department Order] now and we are looking at, probably, towards the end of August,” DepEd Undersecretary and Spokesperson Michael Poa told the Manila Bulletin in an interview on the sidelines of the post-State of the Nation Address (SONA) discussions at the Hilton Hotel in Pasay City on Wednesday, July 26.

“We’re looking at August 29 (Tuesday) but everything is tentative until the Department Order is signed,” Poa said. Originally, DepEd is considering Aug. 28 as the start of classes but the date falls on a holiday in observance of the National Heroes’ Day. 

Poa said that the set of guidelines that DepEd is currently working on will be “omnibus” which will include the “Brigada Eskwela” and the school calendar for the new school year.

In the guidelines, Poa said that adjustments have been made particularly on the participation of teachers in activities such as the end-of-school-year rites.

DepEd, Poa said, has received concerns that some teachers were being asked to report to school before the graduation rites even if these are not included in the school calendar.

Classes for SY 2022-2023 opened on Aug. 22, 2022. DepEd data showed that over 28 million children went back to school two years after the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

For the first three months, public schools were allowed adopted distance / blended learning aside from the five-day in-person classes.

On Nov. 2, 2023, DepEd implemented 100 percent face-to-face classes in all public schools.

Due to the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic, face-to-face classes were not allowed in SY 2020-2021 and SY 2021-2022.

Instead, DepEd shifted to distance learning --- where students learned their lessons at home through multiple learning delivery modalities such as printed/offline modular; online; radio and television-based instruction; and blended learning or a combination of two delivery modes.

Malakas na hangin at alon na dulot ng Bagyong Egay, humagupit sa Cagayan...

Botanical pest control: Using hot pepper and lemongrass extracts for pest management

BY JAMES TABABA

  

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The detrimental effects of chemical pesticides are becoming increasingly apparent, so it is essential to explore alternative methods of pest control. Chemical pesticides can contaminate water sources, harm beneficial insects, and have detrimental effects on human health. Botanical pesticides, on the other hand, offer a safer alternative. They are derived from natural sources, pose minimal risk to humans and the environment, and can effectively control a wide range of pests. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a botanical pesticide using hot pepper and lemon grass extracts.

Hot pepper and lemon grass extracts are highly effective in controlling aphids, thrips, and other sucking insects. These extracts have properties that disrupt the pests' feeding behavior and damage their digestive systems, making them an excellent natural deterrent. When applied as a botanical pesticide, the extracts target not only adult insects but also the larvae and caterpillars.

Materials needed 

To create a botanical pesticide using hot pepper and lemon grass extract, you will need 1 kilogram of hot pepper, preferably the variety known as siling labuyo, and 1 kilogram of lemongrass. Additionally, you will require 3 liters of tap water to serve as the base for the pesticide solution. To process the ingredients, you'll need a blender or a mortar and pestle, depending on your preference and availability. Finally, prepare a coco-cloth or flour cloth to strain and separate the liquid extract from any solid particles.

Hot pepper extract preparation

To prepare the hot pepper extract, begin by finely crushing the hot pepper either by pounding or blending it. Once crushed, add 1 liter of tap water to the hot pepper and thoroughly mix the ingredients. Strain the mixture through a coco-cloth or a flour cloth to extract the juice while separating any solid particles. It's important not to discard the pounded hot pepper at this stage. Instead, place it back into a container and add another liter of tap water. Repeat the extraction process by straining the mixture once more, and then combine this second extract with the first one obtained earlier.

Hot pepper (Steve Johnson/Unsplash)

Lemon grass extract preparation

To create lemongrass extract for your botanical pesticide, start by taking 1 kilogram of lemon grass stems and finely chop them into pieces approximately 0.2 to 0.5 inches long, ensuring uniformity in size. Next, place the chopped lemongrass in a blender and add 1 liter of water to it. Blend the mixture thoroughly until it reaches a smooth consistency, allowing the beneficial properties of the lemongrass to be extracted. Finally, extract the juice by straining the mixture through a coco-cloth or a flour cloth. This straining process will effectively separate any solid particles, resulting in a clean and pure lemon grass extract.

Lemongrass (CHUTTERSNAP/Unsplash)

Mixing the extracts

Combine the hot pepper extract and lemon grass extract in a container. Ensure that both extracts are present in the desired proportions. Thoroughly mix the two extracts together, making sure they are well blended to create a uniform solution. The resulting mixture is now ready for use and can be applied as a pesticide. However, keep in mind that its effectiveness may diminish over time. To maximize its shelf life, it is recommended to refrigerate the mixture. This will help preserve its potency and ensure its usability for a period of 15 to 30 days.

Dosage and application 

To prepare the botanical pesticide solution, add 0.5 liter of the hot pepper and lemon grass mixture to a larger container containing 16-20 liters of water. This dilution ensures proper dispersion and effectiveness of the botanical extracts. For improved adhesion and efficacy, you may consider adding 20 ml of a dishwashing solution to enhance its sticking power. Thoroughly mix the solution to ensure an even distribution of the botanical extracts throughout. Now, equipped with a sprayer, apply the pesticide on both the leaves and soil of the affected plants, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Depending on the severity of the infestation, repeat the application every 3-7 days, maintaining a consistent treatment schedule. For optimal results, it is recommended to apply the pesticide during cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.

Botanical pesticides offer an effective and safe solution for pest control. By utilizing natural extracts from hot pepper and lemon grass, you can protect your plants from harmful insects with minimal risk. The process of making your own botanical pesticide is simple and cost-effective, and the resulting mixture can be stored and used for an extended period. Botanical pesticides contribute to a healthier and more sustainable approach to gardening and agriculture.

For more information and resources related to organic pest control, including this guide, visit the Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Training Institute website.

Philippines stuns New Zealand for first-ever World Cup win

BY NIKOLE JAVIER

Jul 25, 2023 04:52 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The Philippines held its breath as forward Sarina Bolden fired the country’s first-ever goal against New Zealand in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on Tuesday, July 25, ultimately giving the debutant its maiden win before the 32,357 roaring fans at the Wellington Regional Stadium.

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The Philippines held its breath as forward Sarina Bolden fired the country’s first-ever goal against New Zealand in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on Tuesday, July 25, ultimately giving the debutant its maiden win before the 32,357 roaring fans at the Wellington Regional Stadium.

It came from an Angela Beard free kick into the box before Sara Eggesvik safely crossed the ball to Bolden, who then managed to get past through a crowd of players with a header for the Philippines’ historic first goal in the 24th minute of the match that wasn’t looking in favor of them in the beginning.

Before the Filipinas completed the lone goal of the match, the Ferns were dominating the possession with much aggression for the ball in the first 20 minutes of the game. 

And it was Bolden's defining moment that made the sudden difference, and from then on weathered the relentless attacks from the host nation especially in the second half.

Interestingly, like it was always meant to be, Bolden was the one who previously gave the Philippines a 1-nil halftime lead over New Zealand from a similar Eggesvik cross in their first encounter in a friendly match in September last year.

The Ferns, though, came through with a come-from-behind 2-1 victory.

This time, New Zealand's tireless attempts to find the back of the net and past Olivia McDaniel completely went for naught. 

In the 57th minute, Hannah Wilkinson, New Zealand's hero in its stunning win over Group A top seed Norway, headed the ball barely over the bar.

The Ferns continued to come around with near chances including a Jacqui Hand attempt in the 64th minute that just went wide to the left.

Three minutes later, Hand found an equalizer off Wilkinson's pass, but the goal was disallowed after a quick review from the referees and was ruled offside.

McDaniel through and through kept a clean sheet until the final whistle.

Popular Filipino impersonator and satirist Willie Nepomuceno passes away, 75

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Jul 26, 2023 08:51 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• 'We ask for your continued prayers. Thank you very much.'

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Willie Nepomuceno as former President Joseph Estrada (Images courtesy of Facebook)

Willie Nepomuceno, a popular celebrity known for his impersonations of personalities such as former presidents Ferdinand E. Marcos, Joseph Estrada, Comedy King Dolphy, and others, passed away today, July 26. He was 75.

Willie Nepomuceno as Juan Ponce Enrile

Nepomuceno's demise was announced by his family on social media. The full post:

"To our family, loved ones, and friends, 

"It is with deep sadness and heavy heart to announce the passing of our beloved father, WILLIE NEPOMUCENO on July 26, 2023, at the age of 75. He has peacefully joined our creator.

Willie Nepomuceno as Dolphy

"Details of his wake will be announced soon.

"We ask for your continued prayers. Thank you very much."

His family did not say the cause of his death.

Super Typhoon 'Egay' (Doksuri) tracker

5 dead, 2 hurt as steel bridge collapses in Davao City

BY ANTONIO COLINA IV

Jul 25, 2023 01:48 PM

  

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DAVAO CITY – At least five workers died and two others were injured after a steel bridge  under construction collapsed in Sitio Kibakak, Barangay Malamba, Marilog District, Davao City at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, July 24, an official of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) said on Tuesday, July 25.

Police Capt. Hazel Tuazon, DCPO spokesperson,  identified the casualties as Cris Napao, 44, a mason; Jimboy Liga, 28, a boom truck operator; Elmer Sayson, 44, a foreman; Jay Bangonan, 22, a mason; and Rolando Abing, 40, married, a laborer. 

Injured were identified as Meljay Bero, 29, a laborer, and Jonathan Dispo, 38, a mason. 

They were taken to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) here for treatment.

Tuazon said that based on initial investigation, the bridge suddenly collapsed for “unknown reason” and plunged 60 feet into the river.

Seven workers of the contractor, Bojus Sun Builders and Supply Corp., were trapped under a pile of debris.

Tuazon said they were working on the side panel using a boom truck directly below the bridge when it gave in.

Personnel of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office were dispatched to retrieve the bodies.

Parts of Cagayan under Signal No. 4 due to Super Typhoon Egay

1,543 views Jul 25, 2023

Pagasa raises Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 4 over the northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan due to Super Typhoon Egay | 🎥 : Ryan Leagogo/INQUIRER.net

Borges hat-trick as Brazil put on the style; Germany also win big

BY AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Jul 25, 2023 00:30 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Ary Borges was the star of the show at the Women's World Cup on Monday, July 24, hitting a hat-trick for an impressive Brazil, while Germany also won big to begin their campaign.

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ADELAIDE (AFP) -- Ary Borges was the star of the show at the Women's World Cup on Monday, July 24, hitting a hat-trick for an impressive Brazil, while Germany also won big to begin their campaign.

Brazil's forward Beatriz (center) celebrates after a goal of her team during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women's World Cup Group F football match between Brazil and Panama at Hindmarsh Stadium in Adelaide on Monday, July 24. (AFP)

Italy were also victors but needed an 87th-minute header from substitute Cristiana Girelli to squeeze past Argentina 1-0.

Brazil have featured at all eight previous Women's World Cups -- and never won it. 

Far tougher challenges lie ahead -- they face France next -- but their 4-0 thumping of debutants Panama was the perfect start for Swedish coach Pia Sundhage's side.

The stylish victory was all about 23-year-old attacking midfielder Borges.

As well as her hat-trick she also set up the other -- her backheel to tee up Bia Zaneratto at Hindmarsh Stadium in Adelaide capping off a sweeping team move and the best goal of the competition so far.

Some of the Panama players and fans were in tears during their national anthem, underlining what it means to them to be at the World Cup for the first time.

But this was a debut they will probably want to forget as Brazil put on an exhibition of flowing, attacking football.

As a result Brazil top Group F after Jamaica surprisingly held France 0-0 on Sunday.

Popp double

Earlier, Alexandra Popp scored twice as Germany thrashed Morocco 6-0 for the biggest win of the tournament so far.

The lower-ranked teams at the first 32-team Women's World Cup have generally held their own, indicating a closing of the gap in women's international football.

But two-time champions Germany blew away Morocco, the first Arab team at a Women's World Cup.

The Germans are among the favorites once again, along with holders the United States, England, Spain and France, and they showed why with a clinical performance in front of a near sell-out crowd of more than 27,000 in Melbourne.

In their 32-year-old skipper Popp they have one of the best goal-scorers around and she took full advantage of some poor Morocco defending with simple close-range finishes.

Klara Buehl made it three straight after half-time to end the match as any kind of contest, before two own goals and a late sixth from Lea Schueller.

"Today we came up against a team that was superior. It was David and Goliath," said Morocco's French coach Reynald Pedros.

Colombia face South Korea on Tuesday also in Group H, in the final match of the first round of group games.

Super sub

Argentina had never won a game at the Women's World Cup after appearing at three previous finals -- and the wait goes on after going down to Italy in a fiery clash that yielded six yellow cards.

Juventus veteran Girelli was Italy's savior, coming on as a substitute in the 83rd minute and scoring the winner with a superb header just four minutes later in front of nearly 31,000 fans in Auckland.

"I am really happy for me and my teammates because we deserved the victory," said Girelli, who scored a hat-trick against Jamaica at the 2019 World Cup.

"To win in that way, even though we had to suffer, is important," added the 33-year-old, surely now a contender to start the next match against Sweden even if she had no complaints about being an impact substitute.

"If all the games are like this then there is no problem," she said.

"Honestly, obviously every player wants to play 90 minutes, but I will settle for every game being like that. The main thing was the victory."

Argentina coach German Portanova felt the result at Eden Park was harsh on his side.

"It was a very even match," he said. "At times we controlled it and they did not have many opportunities.

"The result was somewhat unfair. A draw would have been the right score."

Also on Tuesday, co-hosts New Zealand return to action when they face debutants the Philippines in Wellington.

In the third match of the day, Switzerland play former champions Norway.

PH Blu Girls absorb thrashing against powerhouse Japan

BY REYNALD I. MAGALLON

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The Philippine women’s softball team succumbed to world powerhouse Japan in just four innings, absorbing a 13-0 demolition in the WBSC 

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The Philippine women’s softball team succumbed to world powerhouse Japan in just four innings, absorbing a 13-0 demolition in the WBSC Women’s Softball World Cup 2023 at Campo Comunale di Softball in Italy late Sunday night, July 23 (Manila time).

Glory Alonzo of PH Blu Girls (WSBC photo)

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The world ranked No. 2 Japanese proved to be too much for the Blu Girls, immediately asserting their dominance in the first inning with seven runs including an inside-the-park home run from Kyoko Ishikawa.

The Blu Girls pitchers in Celyn Ojare, Glory Alonzo and Ann Antolihao tried everything they got to try and make the Japanese batters uncomfortable but they were simply too poised for the Filipinas even scoring six more runs in the second inning.

The Filipinas remained winless through two games after also absorbing a 5-0 defeat against Canada while Japan now stands at the second spot of the Group C standings with a 2-0 record behind the 3-0 slate of host Italy.

The world No. 26 Blu Girls gun for the breakthrough win against fellow winless team and No. 22 team Venezuela Monday afternoon.