Top guns out to bring the heat as National Open fires off

BY REYNALD I. MAGALLON

Apr 30, 2025 04:05 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The scorching summer heat is just about to get hotter as the Philippine Athletics Championships fire off Thursday, May 1, with no less than Paris Olympians, national team veterans and up-and-coming athletes out to strut their wares in a thrilling four-day competition at the New Clark City Stadium here.

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CAPAS, Tarlac –The scorching summer heat is just about to get even hotter as the Philippine Athletics Championships fire off Thursday, May 1, with no less than Paris Olympians, national team veterans and up-and-coming athletes out to strut their wares in a thrilling four-day competition at the New Clark City Stadium here.

Lauren Hoffman

Over 800 athletes are set to see action including around 60 bets from other countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Taiwan, India and Papua New Guinea but all eyes should be on the country's very own track stars in Olympians John Cabang Tolentino, Lauren Hoffman and Kristina Knott.

The country’s top guns are certainly bringing their A-games in the competition since the National Open dangles valuable points for their qualification points for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan in September.    

Hoffman is expected to provide the highlight in the opening day where a total of 24 golds will be at stake, including the women’s 400m hurdles where she is gunning for a third straight gold after ruling the last two editions in Ilagan City in Isabela in 2023 and in Pasig City in 2024.

The 26-year-old hurdler and national record holder is also looking to use the competitions as a springboard to future competitions, like the world meet and the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, this December.

Although a favorite in her race, Hoffman is seen to face stiff competition especially since she is coming off an Achilles injury and her opponents, which included former Asian women's 400-meter hurdles champion Robyn Brown, are surely eager to make an impression with the National Open also serving as part of the selection process for the national team for the SEA Games.

“It’s been an uphill battle with the Achilles issues this year but things are slowly trending upward,” said Hoffman. 

The opening day events begin with the women open 10000m walk and men U18 5000m walk in the morning session before Hoffman and Brown’s 400m hurdles qualifying round at 2 p.m. and then the finals at 6:40 p.m.

Knott, a Tokyo Olympian and SEAG double-gold winner, likewise, is seeing action in the opening day when she races in the women’s 200m qualifying round in the afternoon and then the finals at night 

Other medal events are men’s 400m hurdles, men’s 200m, men and women’s open discus throw, men’s long jump, and men’s and women’s open 5000m along with several finals for the U18 categories.

Ex-K-pop girl group member accuses her agency’s CEO of sexual harassment

BY JONATHAN HICAP

Apr 30, 2025 06:56 PM

  

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A former member of a K-pop girl group has filed a complaint for sexual harassment against the CEO of her agency. 

Ga-eun, 19, former member of idol group Madein, accused CEO Lee Yong-hak of 143 Entertainment of sexual harassment. She is also seeking a formal apology and the termination of her exclusive contract with the agency. 

K-pop girl group Madein (Instagram)

Former Madein member Ga-eun (X)

On April 29, Ga-eun’s side, including her mother, held a press conference about the sexual harassment, which reportedly happened in October last year.  

During the press conference, a handwritten memorandum allegedly made by Lee Yong-hak was released. 

The memorandum stated, "I sincerely apologize for the sexual harassment. In future contractual relationships with 143 Entertainment, I will step down from the position of legal representative director and take responsibility to ensure that I am not disadvantaged. I will also give Ga-eun the right of first choice in contract extensions and other contractual relationships,” Korean media reported. 

143 Entertainment issued a statement, saying, "It is also deeply regrettable that Ga-eun's side demanded a large sum of consolation money based on one-sided claims related to an incident that was already reported last year, and when this was refused, they filed a criminal complaint about six months after the incident occurred." 

The controversy was first reported by a current affairs program of Korean TV channel JTBC in November last year. 143 Entertainment denied the allegations. 

Also last November, 143 Entertainment announced the departure of Ga-eun from Madein and denied the sexual harassment allegations. 

Madein, formerly Limelight, debuted in September last year. The group’s current members are Mashiro, MiU, Suhye, Yeseo, Serina, and Nagomi.

Labor Day: A tribute to work and the worker

BY MANILA BULLETIN

May 1, 2025 00:15 AM

  

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Today, the global community observes Labor Day — a day to pay tribute to the workers, the backbone of our societies. Being a holiday, it is more than a day of rest, Labor Day is a powerful reminder that labor is not just an economic input — it is the heartbeat of our nation, the engine of progress, and the soul of everyday life.

Labor is everywhere. It is in the hands of farmers who cultivate the rice and vegetables that nourish us; in the strength of construction workers who work on our buildings, bridges, and roads; in the commitment of teachers who shape minds and prepare future generations; in the resilience of factory workers who power our industries and exports; and in the precision of health workers who safeguard our lives.

Our lives are made convenient by labor.  The linemen who maintain telecommunications networks give us connectivity. We are secure in our homes, work places and on the road because of public safety officers and soldiers. The conveniences of mobility and efficiency are provided by drivers, clerks, and domestic workers who keep services running smoothly. Behind every product or service, there is a worker whose time, effort, and skill made it possible.

The origins of Labor Day date back to the 19th-century labor movements, born from demands for humane working conditions. In the Philippines, the first Labor Day celebration was in 1903, led by the Union Obrera Democratica de Filipinas. Since then, the Philippines has made significant legislative strides — from the Labor Code of the Philippines (PD 442) to RA 6727 on wage rationalization, and RA 11058 on occupational health and safety.

But laws gain meaning only when enforced. Labor organizations have long been catalysts of this enforcement — securing landmark legislation like the Batas Kasambahay (RA 10361), ensuring domestic workers are no longer invisible.  Because of that law, domestic workers’ basic pay and benefits are not only dependent on an employer’s kindness. 

Still, millions of Filipino workers remain vulnerable. Many endure inadequate pay, job insecurity, and unsafe workplaces. Informal workers, including street vendors, tricycle drivers, and home-based micro-entrepreneurs, contribute to the economy daily but often without any social safety nets.

Modern challenges compound this reality. The pandemic highlighted frontline workers — nurses, hospital staff, janitors, supermarket clerks, delivery riders — who risked their safety to keep society functioning, often with little compensation or protection. Meanwhile, gig workers — freelance designers, content creators, ride-hailing drivers — continue to face uncertain income, no health benefits, and few labor protection, despite their growing role in sustaining modern digital economies.

Encouragingly, more companies are embracing better labor practices — offering mental health support, safety programs, flexible work arrangements, and skills training. These demonstrate that productivity and worker welfare are not at odds — they thrive together.

Let Labor Day be more than a ceremonial gesture. Let it be a national moment of reflection and action — one that compels us – in government and private sector – to ensure dignified work across all sectors, and protect those who labor in silence. Let it spark conversations about shared prosperity.

Nation-building does not begin in the halls of power, but in the fields, classrooms, kitchens, offices, and streets — where millions labor with hope, skill, and sacrifice. It is not merely growth we should pursue, but growth that uplifts those who make it possible.

To every worker — visible and unseen —we pay tribute not just for the work you do, but for the life you help us live.

Rente steigt um 3,74 Prozent

Stand:30.04.2025, 12:02 Uhr 

3,74 Prozent mehr Rente erhalten die Rentnerinnen und Rentner ab 1. Juli. (Symbolbild) © Marijan Murat/dpa/dpa-tmn

Zum Abschied sorgt die Ampel-Koalition noch einmal für mehr Geld bei den Rentnerinnen und Rentnern: Turnusgemäß brachte das Bundeskabinett ein spürbares Rentenplus auf den Weg.

Berlin - Die mehr als 21 Millionen Rentnerinnen und Rentner in Deutschland erhalten zum 1. Juli um 3,74 Prozent steigende Bezüge. Dazu beschloss das Bundeskabinett die Rentenwertbestimmungsverordnung des geschäftsführenden Arbeitsministers Hubertus Heil (SPD), wie es in Regierungskreisen hieß. 

Mit der Verordnung wird der Rentenwert so hoch festgesetzt, dass mit ihm das gesetzlich vorgeschriebene Rentenniveau von 48 Prozent erreicht wird. Beispielsweise bei einer Rente von 1.000 Euro bringt die Erhöhung monatlich 37,40 Euro mehr. Für eine Standardrente bei durchschnittlichem Verdienst und 45 Beitragsjahren bedeutet die Rentenanpassung einen Anstieg um 66,15 Euro im Monat.  Das Rentenplus geht vor allem auf gestiegenen Löhnen in Deutschland zurück – laut offizieller Statistik betrug das für die Rente maßgebliche Lohnplus 3,69 Prozent. 

Heil wertete die Erhöhung der Rente als „gute Nachricht für die Rentnerinnen und Rentner“. Dank der guten Lohnentwicklung stärke die Rentenanpassung ihre Kaufkraft. „Das ist wichtig, denn viele fleißige Menschen sind auf eine anständige Rente nach einem fordernden Arbeitsleben angewiesen“, sagte Heil. „Stabile Renten sind kein Almosen, sondern hart verdient und Ausdruck der Leistungsgerechtigkeit.“

Rentenniveau dauerhaft bei 48 Prozent

SPD-Fraktionsvize Dagmar Schmidt verwies darauf, dass die geltende Haltelinie von 48 Prozent Rentenniveau in diesem Jahr ausläuft. Doch wolle die neue Koalition das Rentenniveau dauerhaft bei diesem Wert sichern, bekräftigte Schmidt. „Ohne gesetzliche Handlung wird das Rentenniveau langfristig sinken. 2038 hätten Rentner mit einer Rente von 1.000 Euro im Monat dann knapp 750 Euro jährlich weniger im Geldbeutel als bei einem stabilen Rentenniveau von 48 Prozent.“ 

Heils Renten-Verordnung für die Anpassung in diesem Jahr tritt – vorbehaltlich der Zustimmung des Bundesrates – am 1. Juli 2025 in Kraft. dpa

Girls' Generation's Sooyoung to make Hollywood debut in 'John Wick' spin-off

 

Kristofer Purnell - Philstar.com

April 30, 2025 | 11:58am

MANILA, Philippines — Actress-singer Choi Soo-young, better known as Sooyoung of the K-pop act Girls' Generation, will make her Hollywood debut in "From the World of John Wick: Ballerina."

The movie, shortened to "Ballerina," is a spin-off from the main "John Wick" franchise starring Keanu Reeves that takes place in between the third and fourth movies.

"Ballerina" circles around Oscar nominee Ana de Armas as Eve Macarro, a ballerina who trains in the assassin traditions of the Ruska Roma (similar to Reeves' Wick).

Her first field mission is to protect Sooyoung's Katla Park before setting out to exact revenge for her father's death.

Franchise returnees include Reeves, Anjelica Huston, Ian McShane, and Lance Reddick in his final on-screen appearance. He died in March 2023.

Sooyoung has been a part of Girls' Generation since the group debuted in 2007, releasing hits like "Gee," "I Got a Boy," "The Boys," "Mr. Taxi," and "Oh!"

She left the group's agency, SM Entertainment, in 2017. She released her first solo single "Winter Breath" the following year and then signed with Saram Entertainment in 2019.

The singer made her acting debut in 2008, starring in the film "Hello, Schoolgirl" and comedy series "Unstoppable Marriage." 

Sooyoung had cameo appearances in the shows "Oh! My Lady," "Paradise Ranch," and "Gentleman's Dignity," and participated in SM Town film projects "I AM." and "SMTown: The Stage."

Since then Sooyoung has starred in "Fanletter, Please!," "Not Others," "Man in the Kitchen," "Tell Me What You Saw," "Run On," "If You Wish Upon Me," "My Spring Days," "Squad 38," "Dating Agency: Cyrano," "New Year Blues," and "So I Married the Anti-fan."

A heavenly mix of laughter and emotion: 'Isang Komedya sa Langit' hits cinemas this May

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Apr 29, 2025 06:50 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Set to premiere nationwide on May 28, 2025, this film promises an unforgettable cinematic journey filled with joy, reflection, and a touch of magic.

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From left: Aki Blanco, Ms.  Carmi Martin and multi-awarded actor, Jaime Fabregas

Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired—because this May, Kapitana Entertainment Media proudly presents 'Isang Komedya sa Langit', a uniquely heartwarming blend of comedy, fantasy, and drama. 

Set to premiere nationwide on May 28, 2025, this film promises an unforgettable cinematic journey filled with joy, reflection, and a touch of magic.

At the heart of the film is the veteran actor Jaime Fabregas, who takes on the role of Father Emanuel Garcia. Known for his powerful portrayals of clergy in Philippine cinema, Fabregas once again delivers a performance that resonates deeply. While playing a priest may be familiar territory for him, he admits this character brought a fresh challenge.

“Hindi ko na mabilang kung ilang beses na ako gumanap bilang pari. Well, may challenge pa rin kase hindi naman lahat ng pari ay may pare-parehong character,” he shared.

Drawing from personal experiences, Fabregas revealed that he once served as an altar boy at the Naga Cathedral, a connection that undoubtedly adds depth and authenticity to his performance. 

Joining Fabregas is the ever-charismatic Carmi Martin, who plays the role of Naty—a part originally offered to Nova Villa. Embracing the project without hesitation, Martin saw great promise in the film’s story. Widely loved for her comedic flair, she showcases her versatility by diving into emotionally charged scenes, even shedding tears on set.

Also starring in the film is rising talent Aki Blanco, portraying Brother Marco. Following his acclaimed role in 'The Last 12 Days'. Blanco, managed by Tyronne Escalante, continues to build his reputation with another moving performance. When asked what he would change if he could revisit the past, Blanco reflected candidly:

“Siguro po, kung may babaguhin man ako, gusto ko bumalik sa pagiging teenager ko. Kase nung teenager ako, simple lang ang buhay ko… gusto ko lang balikan ‘yung mga gano’n kase sa panahon ngayon, puro social media na and puro celfone,” he expressed. 

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The film’s ensemble cast is further strengthened by performances from EA Guzman, John Medina, and Gene Padilla—each adding their own vibrant flavor to the story.

Behind this compelling project is writer and producer Rossana Hwang, the visionary force of Kapitana Entertainment Media. Far more than just the mind behind the screenplay, Hwang personally sought out the film’s leading talents. Jaime Fabregas came highly recommended by Frasco Mortiz, son of the comedic legend Edgar Mortiz.

“You have to get him,” Mortiz told Hwang.

From left: Aki Blanco, producer and screenplay writer Rossana Hwang, Carmi Martin and multi-awarded actor, Jaime Fabregas

Meanwhile, Carmi Martin was personally recruited by Hwang through the Barangay Chairman of Magallanes Village in Makati—an effort that highlights her passion and hands-on commitment to the craft of filmmaking.

Directed by Roi Paolo Calilong, 'Isang Komedya sa Langit' delivers a rich, colorful, and deeply meaningful story that is sure to leave a lasting impact on audiences.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind film that dares to blend humor with heartfelt drama. 'Isang Komedya sa Langit' is more than just a movie—it’s a reflection on life, faith, and love. This is a cinematic experience you won’t want to miss.

For more updates and information, visit Kapitana Entertainment Media.

Kyline Alcantara breaks silence on controversy

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Apr 29, 2025 11:03 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Kyline addressed the controversythrough a statement released by Sparkle GMA Artist Center on April 29.

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Kyline Alcantara (Instagram)

Kapuso star Kyline Alcantara has broken her silence on the issue involving her former boyfriend, Kobe Paras.

Kyline addressed the controversy through a statement released by Sparkle GMA Artist Center on April 29.

No specific names or events were mentioned in the statement, but fans believe it referred to her recent breakup with Kobe. 

Jackie Forster has confirmed the breakup of her son Kobe with Kyline in a video message. 

The full statement of Kyline issued via the Sparkle GMA Artist Center:

"Kyline would like to move on with this issue. She has chosen to keep her peace and maintain respect for the people who have been part of her life. She hopes we can all move on and put this issue to rest," the statement read.

Fans praised Kyline for choosing to remain silent. Here are some of the comments:

"Enjoy life being single. No stress, no drama."

"Good move Kyline. Less talk less mistake. There’s no perfect relationship. Past relationships can make you a stronger woman. Just focus on your goal. Pray and wait for God’s perfect choice for you. Don’t be in a hurry. Great revenge is be better and love yourself. God bless you."

"Indeed, you're handling this situation with professionalism and class! Keep moving forward!"

"She handled it very well than the two adults."

"I'm so proud of you talaga Kyline. Stay healthy and positive lang."

Things dogs can sense

 Dogs possess remarkable sensory abilities that allow them to perceive things beyond human detection, often leading to behaviors that seem paranormal. For example, they can sense subtle environmental changes, like the pressure drop before a storm, due to their acute hearing and sensitivity to vibrations.

Dogs are also thought to detect seismic activity, such as earthquakes, before humans feel them. Their ability to sense low-frequency vibrations or changes in the Earth's magnetic field may explain this behavior, though scientific evidence is still inconclusive.

Another remarkable ability dogs have is detecting illnesses in humans. Their sense of smell is so refined that they can identify changes in a person’s body chemistry, such as fluctuations in blood sugar or even the presence of cancer.

Dogs are highly attuned to human emotions, often sensing when their owners are upset or anxious. This emotional sensitivity sometimes leads them to exhibit behaviors like comforting or protecting their owners.

Lastly, dogs occasionally act strangely, staring at empty spaces or barking at nothing, which many attribute to their acute senses picking up stimuli beyond human perception.

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