GERMAN AMBASSADOR MEETS MAYOR BASTE DUTERTE

Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte welcomed the Ambassador of Germany to the Philippines, His Excellency Dr. Andreas Pfaffernoschke, during a courtesy call in Davao City this afternoon, July 30, 2026.

The visit marked Ambassador Pfaffernoschke’s first official visit to Davao City and sought to strengthen bilateral relations between Germany and Davao City while exploring potential investment opportunities.

Earlier today, the German Embassy in the Philippines, in partnership with the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, held the Regional Green Investment Dialogue at Dusit Thani Residence Davao. The event brought together German companies, investors, and key stakeholders to discuss green technology, renewable energy, and other sustainable investment opportunities.

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Prayer is a powerful weapon

 

July 29, 2026

Updated July 28, 2026

By Klaus Döring

Prayer is widely considered a powerful, transformative spiritual tool. It offers solace in times of crisis, brings peace of mind, and unites communities. Rather than relying on physical force, it uses intention and faith to navigate life’s toughest challenges. The power of prayer lies in its ability to focus the mind, provide comfort, and give people a sense of control when faced with difficult circumstances. Many find that communicating with the divine or taking a moment for quiet reflection helps lower stress and build resilience.

Prayer is a mighty weapon to be used. We are to use it constantly. Use it to petition God for ourselves and others. Use it to talk to God directly and biblically through the Scriptures.

God always listens and often provides the specific answers and guidance we seek. Even when He chooses not to answer immediately or in the way we might have hoped, prayer itself is a way to find peace.

Prayer also energizes the heart of a believer through the power of the Spirit. Consistent prayer releases the power of God’s blessing on our lives and circumstances. Jesus said, “When you pray, go into your room, close the door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen.”

When tragedy strikes, it is easy to harden our hearts and cry out, “God, why did you let this happen?” Maybe then, we start praying. Before, when everything went smoothly, we would not even think for a minute about praying.

“To be a Christian without prayer,” Martin Luther said, “is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.” Prayer is the only way to become what God wants us to be. This is why Jesus spent many hours praying.

Unquestionably, our needs bring us to a place of prayer. Confronted with danger or tragedy, as I mentioned earlier, we look for God’s help. Difficult times often cause people’s hearts to turn to God in prayer.

Let me ask you: How long has it been since you brought your burdens to God? Since you asked His forgiveness for your shortcomings?

In his very interesting book “People in Prayer,” Dr. John White reminds us that prayer is a divine-human interaction and that it is always God who takes the initiative. White writes: “God speaks and we respond. God is always speaking. To hear his voice is not usually a mystical experience. It consists merely of a willingness to pay heed to God who lays a claim to our lives.”

Yes, God always speaks. It is up to us whether we listen and respond to Him. Many think we are the ones who initiate prayer. But prayers begin and end with God.

There was a time when I was no longer in the mood to pray. It seemed that God did not listen to my prayers anymore. I did not get what I prayed for. Of course not! That is not the meaning of praying to God. Will all my wishes be granted? Heaven forbid!

Sometimes, after we have prayed, God’s answers may puzzle us. But as time goes by and events unfold, we see God’s purpose in His answers. We might gain a broader vision of what He wants — not what we want.

Think about it for a moment: How does the idea that prayer begins and ends with God affect me now? Do I have the habit of listening to God? How do I respond to Him? How do I usually pray?

Nowadays, I live a wonderful life in my second and final home, the Philippines. I have never regretted moving here for good. I have everything I could ask for. I can do everything I wish to do. Thank you, Lord.

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Email: doringklaus@gmail.com, or follow me on Facebook or LinkedIn, or visit www.germanexpatinthephilippines.blogspot.com or www.klausdoringsclassicalmusic.blogspot.com.

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PLDT turns back gritty Choco Mucho in Vigan

 

Kianna Dy steps up for PLDT. (PVL Images)

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

The High Speed Hitters drew strength from their solid offense anchored on Kianna Dy, Savi Davison, Mika Reyes and Majoy Baron to notch their first win in the tournament.

PLDT overcame a second-set hiccup to turn back Choco Mucho, 25-21, 20-25, 29-27, 25-18, and start its PVL On Tour campaign on a high note at the Chavit Coliseum in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur on Saturday, July 25.

The High Speed Hitters drew strength from their solid offense anchored on Kianna Dy, Savi Davison, Mika Reyes and Majoy Baron to notch their first win in the tournament.

Dy erupted for 16 kills to finish with 17 points for PLDT, while Davison was equally unstoppable by pumping in 13 points.

Reyes also shone by posting 10 attacks and two blocks for 12 points, even as Baron chipped in 10 points.

PLDT waxed hot at the attack line by pouring 66 kills compared to Choco Mucho’s 55 -- big thanks to the playmaking skills of Kim Fajardo, who delivered 26 of the team’s 31 excellent sets.

While Davison and Reyes stepped up in the offense, the dynamic duo also took charge in the team’s net defense by combining for five of the squad’s eight blocks.

Caitlyn Viray and Isa Molde led the Flying Titans with 16 and 14 points, respectively, but their efforts went futile as Choco Mucho absorbed its second straight defeat in as many outings.