4 'IBONG ADARNA' SPOTTED ON MOUNT APO

 

LOOK: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12 shared photos of 4 different birds identified as Philippine Trogon, a bird species associated with the mythical “Ibong Adarna,” which were recently documented on Mt. Apo Natural Park (MANP).

The birds were sighted perching on tree branches during a recent Biodiversity Monitoring System (BMS) activity conducted on April 22–27, 2024.

"Despite its classification as a species of Least Concern under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Philippine Trogon holds immense cultural and ecological significance within the Mt. Apo Natural Park (MANP) and throughout the region," DENR XII said.

"The presence of the Philippine Trogon serves as an indicator of overall ecosystem health. Its sensitivity to habitat disturbances and environmental changes makes it a valuable bioindicator species," DENR XII added.

📸MANP Cotabato via Facebook/DENR Soccsksargen

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PCCI launches livelihood project for women

BY BERNIE CAHILES-MAGKILAT

May 5, 2024 08:27 AM

  

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Recognizing the need for equal opportunity for all in the workplace, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) launched a livelihood project dubbed as "Karunungang Pangkabuhayan Pangkababaihan" to reintegrate women into the workplace and provide them with the opportunity to earn decent incomes for their families through a capacity building program. 

LIVELIHOOD PROJECT FOR WOMEN -- Shown in photo (L-R) are  Dr. Erjan Malimban, Alay Buhay Foundation; Delia Jimenez, Co-Chair, Corporate Social Responsibility Committee (CSR); Soc Bautista, Chair, Membership Committee; Atty. Amalia Cayanan,  Area Vice President for PCCI - North Luzon; Joel Tugade, Chair, SDG and PR Committees; Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Honorary Chairman/Treasurer; Jude Aguilar, Vice President, International Affairs and Chairman, 50th Philippine Business Conference & Expo;  Alegria Limjoco, Vice President for Regional Affairs and Director, SDG; Arturo Guerrero, Director, Labor Committee; Singapore Ambassador Constance See; Ambassador of The Netherlands Marielle Geraedts; Australian Ambassador Hae Kyong Yu PSM;  Colombian Ambassador Marcela Ordonez; Ambassador of the French Republic Marie Fontanel; Malaysian Ambassador Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino; Dr. Hernan Delizo, Area Vice President PCCI - NCR and Mr. Celestino Reyes, President and CEO, Reyes Hair Company International Inc.   

Launched on April 26, over 150 women from four Gawad Kalinga communities were chosen as the first beneficiaries of said project, which not only extended training on the basics of haircutting and styling but employment opportunities for successful trainees as well as health intervention through free tuberculosis screening for seniors aged 50 and up. 

PCCI Enunina V. Mangio said that this project will be rolled out nationwide through the PCCI regional chapters, in collaboration with the local government units. 

“We hope to teach and educate more women with new skills and hopefully, reintegrate them into the workforce,” she said, adding that gender inequality used to be a thing of the past. “Women are treated secondary to men for a position with the same qualifications as men and women. Mostly, men are preferred, but not anymore,” she added.  Mangio hopes that the project could generate support so that more women can benefit and be provided with the skills needed to earn for their families. 

In the latest Labor Force Survey, the percentage of employed women this year slightly went down at 45.53 percent compared to 45.8 percent of the same period last year.  

The project, an undertaking of the Office of the PCCI President together with the Committees on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), was attended by ambassadors from Colombia, Australia, Singapore, France, the Netherlands, and Malaysia, in partnership with Gawad Kalinga and Alay Buhay Foundation, and supported by Jollibee Foods Corporation, EMS Group, Reyes Haircutters, Francorp Philippines, and Coolaire Consolidated Inc.   

The event included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the PCCI and the Children’s First 1,000 Days Coalition led by Manila Hotel President Atty. Jose Lina Jr. he MOU seeks to undertake a community-driven approach to address the issue of malnutrition and stunting in the country.   The event, the first undertaking of this kind which provides capacity building, employment opportunities and introduces health interventions to the needy, addressed the following SDGs: 1 No Poverty, 2 Zero Hunger, 3 Good Health and Well Being, 5 Gender Equality, 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth, 10 Reduced Inequalities and 17 Partnership for the Goals.(Bernie Cahiles-Magkilat) 

Alisah Bonaobra gets PMPC's Star Award nod for inspirational song

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

May 5, 2024 08:46 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Now residing on the US West Coast, Alisah has been visible in the Fil-Am community events, performing in intimate shows and sold-out concerts, some of them being promoted by RJA.

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Alisah Bonaobra

US-based Filipina singer Alisah Bonaobra won a trophy at the prestigious Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Music, with her single "Do You Have A Miracle For Me" named the Inspirational Song of the Year.

The track, released in late 2021, was penned by A-list songwriter Cecile Azarcon-Inocentes and produced by the San Francisco Bay Area-based RJA Productions.

"I'm so honored for this recognition, considering the reputation of PMPC as an award-giving body. Sobrang laking blessing nito para po sa akin," expressed Alisah, who moved to northern California in 2022 to continue her singing career.

The said song is a moving ballad reminiscent of classic inspirational pop songs that have gone beyond being just a traditionally preachy piece to something of an earworm with a universal touch. Thanks to Alisah's impassioned vocal delivery that does not overpower the calming message of the song and is guided by the able hand of vocal coach Arnie Mendaros.

Of course, credit is due to the magic touch of a songmaker who wrote Original Pilipino Music (OPM) classics bannered by one of the greatest inspirational tunes ever: "Lift Up Your Hands" (Basil Valdez). 

"Do You Have A Miracle For Me" is more than just a creation from a seasoned talent in Azarcon-Inocentes whose major hits include Kuh Ledesma's "I Think I'm In Love," Gary Valenciano's "Reaching Out," Chiqui Pineda's "How Did You Know," and Martin Nievera's "Ikaw Ang Lahat Sa Akin" which Alisah revived herself. It is also a record arranged by household name Homer Flores and mixed and mastered by studio specialist Dante Tanedo.

The spiritually vocal Alisah noted, "We're thankful for Ms.Cecile for trusting us with her songs. This award from PMPC is a big boost to my profile. Ibang klase po talaga magbigay ng blessing si God." During the height of the Covid pandemic, the Voice of the Philippines Season 2 runner-up and X Factor UK scene-stealing finalist first recorded a song penned by the songwriting icon, called "Faithful."

Alisah's recording career took a turn for the better after she was found by Rosabella Jao-Arribas, a Filipino-born advertising professional-turned-talent manager who put up RJA Productions and managed her, along with other talented but underrated Filipino singers. The partnership has resulted in a steady release of her singles since "Ginto Ang Sandali" back in April 2020.

Now residing on the US West Coast, Alisah has been visible in the Fil-Am community events, performing in intimate shows and sold-out concerts, some of them being promoted by RJA. 

She is scheduled to do a major concert this coming July 20 with RJA's "Emerge," to be staged at the Empress Theatre in (330 Virginia Street) Vallejo, California. 

The show will feature as special guests the Philippines' King of R&B, Jay R, and balladeer Bryan Termulo, among other rising stars in the music scene.

"Since I arrived in the US, I've been doing a lot of shows, and I always feel excited when I see people appreciate my presence," she said. 

On the side, one of the Philippines' remarkable singing contest stars volunteers in an animal shelter, as she loves dogs and cats. She is likewise a Catholic church choir member.

Alisah recently started living independently as she navigates to being a Pinay celebrity singer in America. She reflected, "I feel blessed to have a roof on my head while adjusting to life away from the Philippines. You have to be strong, especially when the only choice is to be strong. You need to live in the present."

  It's no wonder Alisah is a perfect fit for singing inspirational songs. Her life is an inspiring story in itself, having been raised through humble means and going through the singing competition circuit in the most difficult of situations. 

In the song cited by the PMPC Star Awards, she asked if there was a miracle for her. Her continuing story of triumph through the power of her singing voice and innate charm appears like a heavenly miracle, showing for and urging audiences to hold on to and savor.

Cayetanos extend further aid aid to 500 Hagonoy flood victims

Despite its remoteness, the offices of Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano returned to the Municipality of Hagonoy this week to provide vital calamity assistance to an additional 500 flood victims.

As a coastal community, Hagonoy experienced a number of catastrophic floods in 2023, rendering at least 20 of its barangays inundated and hundreds of families displaced and in dire need of support.

Recognizing the urgency to provide rehabilitation (pang-ahon) packages to displaced Bulakenyos, the sibling senators have mobilized their resources to ensure that aid reaches those most affected by the disaster.

The aid came in two batches: on April 23, 2024, the Cayetanos’ team visited Hagonoy to provide aid to more than a thousand flood victims.

The second round of distribution occurred a week later, on April 29, to benefit 500 more beneficiaries. 

 

Additionally, the Cayetanos’ medical team were on the ground to offer medical assistance to ensure that every affected individual receives the health services they require.

Estelle Ople-Osorio, one of the coordinators of the calamity assistance drive, thanked the senators for thinking about their situation despite the remoteness of the area.

“Gusto ko lang po pasalamatan sina Senator Alan Peter at Pia Cayetano dahil hindi nila nakakalimutan ang bayan ng Hagonoy. Hindi po pansinin ang aming lugar, medyo malayo kami sa kabihasnan pero never silang humindi sa paghingi namin ng tulong,” Ople-Osorio said of the senators during the April 30 drive held at Hagonoy’s Sangguniang Bayan Municipal Covered Court.

“Ramdam po namin ang pagmamahal ninyong dalawa. Thank you po sa sincere ninyong serbisyo sa aming lugar at sa aming pamilya dito sa lahat ng Bulakenyo. More power sa inyong tunay na serbisyo at pagmamahal sa mamamayang Pilipino!” she added. 

The assistance drive was done in coordination with Hagonoy Mayor Flordeliza Manlapaz, Vice Mayor Maria Rosario Sy-Alvarado, and Councilor Baby Ople, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) under its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

AICS provides essential assistance to people affected by crises like floods, earthquakes, and those affected by El Niño to aid their recovery.

170 more receive livelihood aid

The next day, on April 30, the senators’ team also visited the Municipality of Norzagaray to provide livelihood aid to 170 Bulakenyos from the women’s groups,  senior citizens, and barangay health workers.

This was done in partnership with Norzagaray Vice Mayor Baldo Gener, Board Member Art Legazpi, Board Member Jay De Guzman, and Councilor Maricar Pelayo.

Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano remain committed to supporting communities affected by natural disasters and will continue to monitor the situation in calamity-stricken areas to provide assistance as needed.

Rollback in oil prices turns heftier at roughly P1.00/liter

Updated Story

BY MYRNA M. VELASCO

May 4, 2024 08:35 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Based on the outcome of five-day trading in the regional market, the price of gasoline products will be trimmed by P0.75 to P1.15 per liter; while diesel prices will be cut by relatively sizeable P0.85 to P1.25 per liter; and kerosene by P0.80 to P1.20 per liter.

• If reckoned from trading results as referenced on the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) index, the calculated price adjustments had been: P0.955 per liter for gasoline; P1.047 per liter for diesel and P1.044 per liter for kerosene.

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The estimated rollback at the pumps next week will offer more substantial relief to the pockets of consumers next week as this already turned heftier into the vicinity of P1.00 per liter as of end of trading day on Friday (May 3), according to the industry players.

Based on the outcome of five-day trading in the regional market, the price of gasoline products will be trimmed by P0.75 to P1.15 per liter; while diesel prices will be cut by relatively sizeable P0.85 to P1.25 per liter.

Additionally, the price of kerosene - which is widely known as a base fuel for the aviation industry and also a key commodity for households and other industries, will have prospective reduction of P0.80 to P1.20 per liter.

If reckoned from trading results as referenced on the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) index, the calculated price adjustments had been: P0.955 per liter for gasoline; P1.047 per liter for diesel and P1.044 per liter for kerosene.

The price adjustments will be reflected at the pumps on Tuesday (May 7); and this is a series wherein all commodity costs would be on downtrend, following wild seesaw of prices in recent weeks.

Market watchers conveyed that the downward spiral in oil prices had been precipitated by perceived de-escalation of the Israel-Iran tension as underpinned by the ongoing ceasefire talks in Cairo, Egypt.

There is general expectation that if a ceasefire deal could be concluded successfully, the lingering armed conflict in Gaza may eventually ease, hence, that will help soften global oil prices. Global experts noted that even the new round of missile attacks launched by the Houthis on a container ship in Yemen, had no longer impacted much on market sentiments this week.

Beyond geopolitics, it was emphasized that Mexico’s decision to reverse an earlier plan of export cuts also provided wider breathing room for supply in markets, hence, that helped pull down international oil prices.

Another major factor which ignited bearish outlook in global oil prices had been higher crude inventories then the renewed uptick of inflation rate in the United States, which raised new round of concerns on oil demand in the world’s biggest oil consumer.

As of Friday (May 3) trading, international benchmark Brent crude had dipped to $83 per barrel level from last week’s $86 per barrel.

The declining oil prices will certainly provide respite to Filipino consumers, especially at this time when they would be shelling out more cash for other component of their energy bills because of the dizzying highs in electricity rates. 

 

DOH reports 77 heat-related illness cases, 7 deaths nationwide

BY ZEKINAH ELIZE ESPINA

May 4, 2024 10:51 AM

  

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The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday, May 4, reported a total of 77 heat-related illness cases from Jan. 1 to April 29.

Photo from DOH 

It noted that of these cases, seven were reported deaths.

DOH Event-based Surveillance and Response System identified a demographic vulnerability, with 67 cases affecting individuals between the ages of 12 to 21 years old.

However, due to insufficient data, these fatalities are currently labeled as non-conclusive for heat stroke, it said.

The DOH stressed the complexity of such cases, noting that deaths may be attributed to heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, or other heat-influenced factors, such as underlying conditions precipitated by hot environments.

It urged the public to remain vigilant, especially during periods of intense heat, and to prioritize hydration and seek medical attention promptly if experiencing symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

May 3, 2024 10:24 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Leading the Best You Ever campaign, Kathryn started her fitness journey with her trainer, Mauro Lumba, who is also the Century Tuna Superbods 2014 Grand Champion.

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Kathryn Bernardo

Asia’s Superstar Star Kathryn Bernardo continues to make waves as she brings out her best self this year with Century Tuna, the number one tuna brand in the Philippines.

Flaunting her well-toned physique, Kathryn Bernardo is ecstatic to be part of the Century Tuna Superbods campaign, which is a dream that has become a reality since her teenage years, according to the star.

“I’ve always found the Century Tuna Superbods to be inspiring and being a part of this campaign feels like a dream come true. It’s an honor to become part of the Century Tuna Superbods and through this campaign, I hope that I’ll also become an inspiration for every Filipino to let them enjoy full, happy, and healthy lives,” said Kathryn Bernardo.

Leading the Best You Ever campaign, Kathryn started her fitness journey with her trainer, Mauro Lumba, who is also the Century Tuna Superbods 2014 Grand Champion.

As the Century Tuna Ambassador steps into a new phase of her life, she aims to inspire Filipinos to embody Century Tuna’s belief that everybody can be a superbod through the Best You Ever campaign.

“Anyone can achieve the best version of themselves with the right discipline and determination, proper exercise and nutrition, and a good support system. So I encourage everyone to take that first step towards your 'Best You Ever' and join me in Century Tuna Superbods 2024! Let’s redefine fitness by embracing self-love, challenging growth, and inspiring others," Kathryn added. Launched in 2006, Century Tuna's Superbods campaign has been a trailblazer in promoting health, fitness, and an active lifestyle. This year, their "Best You Ever" movement takes it a step further by advocating for self-love and holistic self-improvement.

Cayetano to Taguig youth leaders: Enable people to do what is right

Leaders do not just tell people what is wrong, they also enable them to do what is right.

This was Senator Alan Peter Cayetano’s encouragement to Sanggunian ng Kabataan (SK) Chairpersons of Taguig who gathered on Thursday night for dinner and fellowship with leaders of the city.

Focusing on principles, Cayetano urged the young leaders to stick to what they know is right in order to serve their constituents well.

“Why principles? We can debate on opinion, we can debate religion, but we cannot debate on principles. As leaders, we cannot only tell people kung ano ang mali, we have to provide them kung ano yung tama,” he said.

The gathering, held in Barangay Hagonoy, was attended by City of Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano along with barangay chairpersons from the first and second districts as well as representatives from the EMBO barangays.

The senator called on the youth in attendance to practice three principles: victory, vision, and value. Starting with victory, he stressed the importance of defining success on one's own terms.

“You cannot have victory kung wala kang parameter, sukatan, o measurement of what victory is,” he said.

Transitioning to the principle of vision, Cayetano pointed out the vital connection between a clear vision and the attainment of victory and success.

“When you have a vision, lilinaw sa inyo y’ung victory at saka success,” he said.

“You might not be confident about yourself, but when you’re confident about your vision, when you value yourself, other people will see that,” he added.

Drawing from his own faith, Cayetano then talked about recognizing the inherent value of every person, reminding the young leaders of their significance in the eyes of God.

He also encouraged them to embrace their worth and treat others with respect and kindness, reminding them that Jesus gave His life for everyone because He values each and every person.

“If you think you’re worthless, think twice. God already said, ‘You are worth dying for,’” he said.

Eyeing to continue the engagement with the young leaders, Cayetano invited them to monthly talks on principles as an avenue to foster leadership development and community service.

He also left the young leaders with a call to action, urging them to lead with purpose, courage, and dedication to serving their community, guided by the grace of the Lord. ###

SM Mall of Asia and Philippine High School for the Arts ignite creativity with 'Sining at Kabataan’

Offering a glimpse into the future of Philippine art

BY MB LIFESTYLE

May 3, 2024 10:30 AM

  

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SM Mall of Asia teams up with the Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) for the "Sining at Kabataan" showcase

SM Mall of Asia (MOA) partnered with the prestigious Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) and the PHSA Ibarang Alumni Association to showcase the dynamic talents of young Filipino artists.

Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) Pangkat Mananayaw, Hiraya group dance by Maquiling Ballet, Hiraya group dance by Maquiling Ballet, Beatrice Cena, and Agung Sicam perform a guitar duet and Ethnic Craze (group dance by Makiling Dance).

The "Sining at abataan" performance showcase, held on April 21 at the MOA Main Mall Atrium, offered an inspiring display of creativity. Visitors enjoyed a captivating program featuring music, indigenous dance, ballet, theatre, and creative writing. 

“Ukay-Ukay,” a mixed-media creation by Victor Emmanuel Carmelo Nadera II

From April 19 to April 22, a stunning Visual Arts Exhibit displayed the exceptional works of PHSA's young visual artists, offering a glimpse into the future of Philippine art. 

SM Supermalls' Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin

"With over four million people visiting our 85 malls nationwide daily, we are committed to providing a platform for artistic expression that comes alive through performances," said SM Supermalls Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin.

Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) Director 4 Greg Zuniega

This exciting collaboration between MOA and PHSA not only celebrates artistic talent but also fosters a thriving cultural hub within SM.

For details on exciting SM Supermalls events, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.