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Laura's Insta: LauraReidd
Laura's vlog: / laurareidd
Laura's snap: LauraReidYTBY JEFFREY DAMICOG
Sep 3, 2023 09:09 AM
Filipinos who are going abroad to see their foreign partners are no longer required starting today, Sept. 3, to undergo the guidance and counseling program (GCP) of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO), the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said.
In a statement, Commissioner Norman Tansingco said the scrapping of the GCP requirement was issued by the CFO, a member of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), to lessen the requirements for departing Filipinos.
All immigration officers have been informed of the new CFO rule, Tansingco said.
“The inter-agency council is committed to continuously review departure requirements for departing Filipinos to adapt to current trends,” Tansingco said.
“The BI, as an implementing agency, is ready to implement changes in departure guidelines, as deemed fit by members of the inter-agency,” he added.
He said he received a letter last Aug. 31 from CFO Chairperson Romulo Arugay who informed the BI of the latest rule.
“The GCP was initially a requirement for Filipinos with foreign partners departing to meet or marry abroad,” he also said.
He pointed out that the new rule is part of the 2023 Revised Guidelines on Departure Formalities for Internationally-Bound Filipino Travelers.
Earlier, IACAT had announced the suspension of the implementation of the revised guidelines which were supposed to be implemented today, Sept. 3.
Several quarters have raised their objections to the revised guidelines claiming the new rules violate a person’s right to travel.
The Senate had requested IACAT to defer the implementation of the new guidelines. Its request was granted.
BY JEFFREY DAMICOG
Sep 3, 2023 09:49 AM
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) warned Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) against accepting “third country recruitment” or the contract to work in another country other than the place where they were originally and legitimately hired.
With the practice of “third country recruitment,” the Philippine government would not have records of the OFWs being transported to a different country, BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said on Sunday, Sept. 3.
Tansingco said that OFWs, who usually accept “third country recruitment” after their visas expire, would be immediately transferred to the third country and would not get an opportunity to return to the Philippines.
“While ‘third party recruitment’ is beyond the scope of the BI, we deem it necessary to share to the public stories we encounter at the airport, as we are the first to hear about this back in the Philippines,” he said.
He stressed that “OFWs should protect themselves from exploitation by ensuring proper documentation when they work abroad.”
Tansingco issued the warning after five Filipinos arrived in the Philippines last Sept. 1 after their deportation from Moscow, Russia.
He said that four of the victims, all females with valid overseas employment certificates, shared the difficulties they encountered in Russia.
“Three of the female victims were OFWs in Hong Kong and were recruited to transfer to Russia upon expiry of their contracts,” he said.
“The other female victim worked as a nanny but remained in Russia despite the expiry of her contract,” he noted.
The male deportee, on the other hand, left the Philippines as a tourist to visit his OFW wife but overstayed due to Covid-19 pandemic, he said.
The 20 contestants of "The Debut: Dream Academy" including the Philippines' Sophia Laforteza
Kristofer Purnell - Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — Filipina Sophia Laforteza is one of twenty contestants vying to be part of HYBE and Geffen Records' next global girl group through the talent show "The Debut: Dream Academy."
The 20-year-old Laforteza and 19 other young ladies originating from South Korea, Japan, United States, Australia, Brazil, Argentina, Belarus, Sweden and Slovakia were selected from over 120,000 candidates from a process dating back to November 2021.
"The Debut: Dream Academy" released posters and short videos introducing each of the 20 candidates, who all underwent the K-pop training and development system.
Beginning September 1, "The Debut: Dream Academy" will air on Youtube and Japanese streaming platform Abema, concluding with a finale on November 18 with the final members and name of the new girl group.
Fans can also participate by voting on TikTok and Weverse which members they want to be considered to make the cut. The group's concept and how many will ultimately be chosen will be announced at a future date.
The eventual group's development process will be filmed for a Netflix documentary series coming out next year directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Nadia Hallgren.
"Each candidate is incredibly talented, dedicated, and driven, making this an exciting moment for music fans around the world," said Geffen Records’ chairman John Jannick in a statement.
HYBE is the Korean agency behind BTS, Seventeen, NewJeans, Enhypen, Tomorrow X Together and Le Sserafim.
Meanwhile, Universal Music Group's Geffen Records founded by veteran producer David Geffen currently manages Ann Marie, Kali Uchis, Neon Trees, Big Time Rush, Marshemello, American distribution for Seventeen, NewJeans, and Le Sserafim, reissues of Nirvana, and Filipino-American Olivia Rodrigo.
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The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) is gearing up to pay homage to some of the most revered Filipino comedians as part of the 3rd Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM) celebrations this September.
With the theme "Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Tawanan," this event will shine a spotlight on the profound impact of Philippine comedy by honoring Filipino personalities whose names have become synonymous with what Pinoy comedy is.
Rodolfo "Dolphy" Quizon, hailed as the undisputed King of Comedy, takes center stage in this year's PFIM as the industry pays homage to his indelible contributions.
Dolphy embodied the quintessential Filipino Everyman, effortlessly balancing both laughter and tears. His comedic genius transcended generations and mediums, from bodabil to television and film. The FDCP will posthumously honor the Comedy King with its Highest Honors, recognizing him as a beacon of Filipino humor.
Along with the King of Comedy, the following pillars of the genre will also be honored:
Michael V. Over the span of three decades, Beethoven Bunagan, popularly known as "Bitoy" or Michael V., has emerged as one of the nation's most prolific comedians.
As one of the brains behind "Bubble Gang," the Philippines' longest-running comedy show, Michael V. has masterfully crafted characters — "Yaya Angelina," "Bonggang Bonggang Bongbong," "Mr. Assimo," and "Doña Yna Moran" — and blended comedy, satire, and social commentary.
Eugene Domingo. Her journey began in theater, collaborating with luminaries like Tony Mabesa and Ishmael Bernal before establishing herself as a prominent film and TV actress. Domingo's portfolio includes lead roles in the "Kimmy Dora" franchise and Marlon Rivera's critically-acclaimed "Ang Babae sa Septic Tank," the Philippines' 2011 Academy Awards entry. Her seamless transition from theater to screen has elevated comedy into an art form of intelligence and depth.
AiAi delas Alas. She is dubbed as the country's Queen of Comedy. Her comedic prowess has translated into box office hits like the "Ang Tanging Ina" series directed by the late Wenn Deramas. Beyond comedy, delas Alas has excelled in dramatic roles, garnering accolades from prestigious local and international award-giving bodies. With a career spanning over three decades, she has adeptly navigated the spectrum from slapstick to poignant performances, solidifying her iconic status.
Vice Ganda. Jose Marie Viceral, fondly known as "Vice Ganda," has evolved from stand-up comedy at local bars to becoming a sought-after icon in the entertainment realm. Blockbuster films, high-rated TV shows, endorsements, and sold-out concerts attest to Vice Ganda's substantial influence. A proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Vice Ganda has redefined success, inspiring countless others.
Tito, Vic, and Joey. Enduring the test of time, the trio of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey — collectively known as TVJ — have remained fixtures in Filipino hearts for over five decades and has since become everyone's "dabarkads" through their longest-running television show. Representing authentic Filipino humor, TVJ's rapport with viewers has withstood the challenges of a competitive industry.
The 3rd Philippine Film Industry Month awarding ceremony takes place on September 29 at Acacia Hotel Manila, coinciding with the PFIM 2023 Closing Ceremony.
A grand tribute for the late King of Comedy will also happen as the tradition of humor and laughter continues and be carried by the younger generation of comedians.
By Lucell Larawan
In the heart of the Philippines lies a treasure trove of artistic brilliance, where creativity flows like Loboc river, painting the nation's cultural canvas with vibrant hues of imagination and ingenuity. From the visual arts hottest stars like Ronald Venura and Andres Barroquinto to Rodel Tapaya, Filipino artists have continued to push the boundaries of artistic expression in the modern era. However, amidst rapid societal development, the plight of mid-career artists often remains overlooked, stifling the growth of our artistic community. It is time to shine a spotlight on these talented creators and unveil the game-changing legislation that will empower and nurture their artistry, enriching our cultural heritage and driving forward our society.
The Link Between Artistic Development and Societal Progress
Art has long been regarded as a mirror reflecting society's hopes, dreams, and challenges. Its profound impact extends beyond aesthetics, encompassing the very essence of societal development. The value of art is not solely in its visual appeal but in its ability to ignite conversations, evoke emotions, and foster a sense of identity and unity.
A study conducted by the National Endowment for the Arts revealed that communities rich in artistic opportunities experience a wide array of benefits. These include increased civic engagement, reduced crime rates, enhanced educational outcomes, and a boost in local economies. Art, in all its forms, breathes life into the very essence of a community, making it more resilient and vibrant.
Filling the Gap: Democratizing Support for Artists
While the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) plays a pivotal role in promoting and preserving Filipino arts and culture, the support it can provide to mid-career artists is often limited by the constraints of budget and resources. The proposed game-changing legislation seeks to address this gap by democratizing the ability to support artists. It encourages not just government agencies but also private institutions, individuals, and communities to actively participate in nurturing and uplifting mid-career artists.
Game-Changing Legislation for Mid-Career Art Careers
1) Mid-Career Art Grants Program: Recognizing the challenges faced by mid-career Filipino artists, the government introduces the Mid-Career Art Grants Program. This dedicated fund will provide financial support to these artists, empowering them to undertake ambitious projects and advance their craft. For instance, artists like Elena Santos, a talented painter in her mid-career, could receive a grant to create a series of thought-provoking murals exploring the themes of environmental conservation and social justice. With access to resources for art materials, research, workshops, and exhibitions, mid-career artists can embrace innovation and reimagine artistic boundaries.
Rationale: Many mid-career artists face financial constraints that hinder their ability to explore new avenues and elevate their craft. By offering grants, the government can empower artists like Elena Santos to experiment, innovate, and contribute significantly to the country's art scene.
2) Tax Incentives for Art Patronage: To foster a culture of appreciation for the arts and encourage private sector involvement, the government proposes tax incentives for individuals and corporations supporting mid-career artists through art purchases, sponsorships, or donations to cultural institutions. For example, a corporation that sponsors a mid-career artist like Juan Del Cruz’s solo exhibition could receive tax deductions, encouraging more businesses to invest in the arts.
Rationale: Encouraging patronage through tax incentives not only supports artists financially but also fosters a culture of appreciation for the arts in the broader community. It can lead to a more vibrant and sustainable ecosystem for art development.
3) Art Education and Mentorship Program: Acknowledging the transformative power of mentorship and education, the government initiates an Art Education and Mentorship Program. This program aims to connect mid-career artists with experienced professionals and mentors, providing them with workshops, training sessions, and networking opportunities. Through this structured support, artists can hone their skills, preserve artistic traditions, and embrace new techniques, fostering a vibrant and innovative art scene. For instance, a mid-career sculptor like Juan Dela Cruz could participate in a mentorship program with a renowned sculptor, learning new techniques and expanding her artistic horizons.
Rationale: By promoting a structured mentorship and education system, we can help mid-career artists refine their techniques, expand their horizons, and gain valuable insights from established artists. This fosters a sense of community and helps sustain artistic traditions while fostering innovation.
4) Public Art Commissions: Encourage government agencies, local governments, and private organizations to allocate a portion of their budgets for public art commissions. These commissions should prioritize mid-career Filipino artists, offering them opportunities to create public installations, sculptures, murals, and other artistic expressions in various public spaces. For example, a city council could commission a mid-career artist like Juan Dela Cruz to create a stunning sculpture for a public park, enriching the community's artistic experience.
Rationale: Public art not only enhances the visual appeal of communities but also serves as a platform for artists to showcase their talents to a broader audience. By involving mid-career artists in public art projects, we can increase their visibility and recognition while making art more accessible to the public.
The Impact: A Specific Example
Once these game-changing legislative ideas become laws, the impact on the artistic community can be monumental. One specific example of this impact is seen through the rise of an annual "Mid-Career Artists Festival," a celebration of artistic innovation and creativity that showcases the works of mid-career artists from various disciplines. This festival provides artists with a platform to engage with a wider audience, attract potential patrons, and collaborate with other creative minds. For instance, a mid-career filmmaker like Juan dela Cruz could screen his latest film during the festival, gaining exposure and recognition.
As a result, the festival becomes a cultural highlight, drawing both locals and international visitors to experience the richness and diversity of Filipino contemporary art. The success of the festival, fueled by the legislation's support, propels the mid-career artists' careers forward, creating a sustainable and vibrant artistic community.
Conclusion
The time has come to place mid-career Filipino artists on a pedestal, providing them with the support and resources they deserve to thrive and innovate. The proposed game-changing legislation aims to empower artists, enrich our cultural heritage, and drive societal progress. As we embrace these visionary reforms, we take a giant leap forward in shaping a brighter, more vibrant future for both the arts and the nation as a whole. Together, let us celebrate the power of art and ignite a new era of artistic excellence in the Philippines.
Who wants the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to remain one of the worst airports in the world? Nobody. But who sells or disowns his child just because the child is problematic? Nobody either - except the loveless and crazy.
The Marcos Jr. administration has just formally kicked off the sale of NAIA to private sector. But for unknown, real/deeper sense and repercussion, what does this mean?
Letting one's knee touch the canvas during a boxing match up means surrender. Alas, this is exactly what the government tries to do in pushing its knee hard to the floor. Or in doggedly pushing to privatize the "helplessly" beleaguered NAIA. It is the way to "solve" the mess at the country's premiere airport, so they thought.
But what is the use of government if government can't compete with the private sector in efficiency or governance, and modernization? What can private people do that public officials can't, with all the yearly budget (in trillions of pesos) at their disposal? Cryptic.
Hindi ba gobyerno pa nga ang dapat magpakita ng pinakamagaling, pinakamoderno at pinakamagandang halimbawa para sa lahat sa bansa? If a government can't set a right example for everyone, then how can its people expect something good to come out from such a government?
There is more than meets the eye to all of these NAIA brouhahas/shenanigans. The issue is more a challenge for our officials to be capable, effective and wise than it is a matter of solving any of the persisting problems at NAIA? That's the puzzle pieces, assembled and complete.
For what sane reason does the Department of Transportation and Communication (or Malacanang) want to privatize NAIA? Are they admitting that the private sector or business people are better off than them in the area of managing and administering? But if that's the case, then Filipinos would do well to have these private people take over every single office in the government. Or, could there be something behind the "privatization" move that only those behind it know so well?
Given the ever escalating prices of rice and other agricultural/local products, the needless importations, the unabated smuggling, and the hoarding that causes artificial shortages of rice, sugar, salt, onion, meat products, etc., in the market, would it be bad to suggest that we privatize the Department of Agriculture, following the government's touted line of thinking in wanting to privatize NAIA? Easy way out.
Time to break the cycle, this vicious cycle of "privatization," lest Filipinos would someday find the entire country privatized, "wisely."
I just had a wonderful experience of government efficiency yesterday (August 30, 2023) when I went to the central office of Philippine Statistics Authority on East Avenue to get an authenticated birth certificate. I thought I wouldn't be able to do my purpose anymore because I came very late due to rains and heavy traffic.
But I got the surprise of my life, having found the PSA staffs (including the guards) very accommodating and friendly, quick to respond. The processing of papers was highly systematic, cogent, instantaneous and ingenious. The counters and machines, and the whole big, wide people area were well arranged and ventilated. Admirable. I arrived at 4:30 pm and I left at 4:50 pm, with my authenticated birth certificate. Wonderful. No delays, hassles and inconvenience. And no exaggeration.
For the first in my life, I felt like I was in heaven - inside a government office, unbelievably.
P.S.
True to its motto, the PSA is "Solid. Responsive. World-class." You can do it at NAIA and elsewhere, dear government. But do away with it (privatization).
10-DASH LINE MAP The tenth dash of China’s 10-dash line map Beijing released on Aug. 28indicates Beijing’s claimto Taiwan, and continues to demarcate its sweeping claims to nearly the entire South China Sea. The Philippines, Malaysia and India reject the map.
By: Jacob Lazaro - @inquirerdotnet
Philippine Daily Inquirer / 05:30 AM September 01, 2023
The Philippines on Thursday refused to recognize China’s latest map, which showed a new 10-dash line that still encompassed parts of the country’s 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and pressed Beijing to abide by an international arbitral ruling on its maritime claims.
Malaysia, its Southeast Asian neighbor, and India, with whom China had engaged in violent clashes over boundary disputes, also strongly opposed the inclusion of parts of their own territories in the new Chinese map.
“The Philippines rejects the 2023 version of China’s Standard Map issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources of the People’s Republic of China on Aug. 28, 2023, because of its inclusion of the nine-dashed line (now a 10-dashed line) that supposedly shows China’s boundaries in the South China Sea,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Thursday.
“This latest attempt to legitimize China’s purported sovereignty and jurisdiction over Philippine features and maritime zones has no basis under international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the
The 2016 arbitral award invalidated China’s previous nine-dash-line demarcation of its claim to nearly the entire South China Sea, the DFA said.
Quoting the arbitral tribunal’s ruling, the DFA said that the previous nine-dash lines were “contrary” to Unclos “and without lawful effect to the extent that they exceed the geographic and substantive limits of China’s maritime entitlements under the Convention.” The award is supported by the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, India, South Korea, France, Germany, Austria, Australia, the Netherlands and the European Union.
In its latest map, China placed the 10th dash line east of Taiwan to indicate ownership and sovereignty over the independently governed island.
The Philippines called on China to “act responsibly and abide by its obligations under Unclos and the final and binding 2016 arbitral award,” the DFA said.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the release of the map was a “routine practice” in exercising its “sovereignty in accordance with the law.”
“We hope relevant sides can stay objective and calm, and refrain from overinterpreting the issue,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Monday.
Malaysia, which also claims parts of the South China Sea, “does not recognize” the new map.
It called the map an example of “China’s unilateral maritime claims” in the strategic waterway as it included Kuala Lumpur’s maritime claims off Sabah Island and Sarawak state as depicted by its “Peta Baru Malaysia 1979” map.
‘No binding effect’
“The (Chinese) map has no binding effect on Malaysia,” its government said on Wednesday.
Aside from the 10-dash line, another controversial inclusion in Beijing’s new map was India’s Arunachal Pradesh state and parts of Jammu and Kashmir region.
India’s Foreign Ministry said it had lodged a “strong protest” with China.
“We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question,” it said on Tuesday.
Former Sen. Orlando Mercado said the new map was an example of the Asian superpower’s expansionist intentions.
“Adding one more line to their expanding claims of dominion, only shows there is no limit to their imagination,” Mercado told the Inquirer on Wednesday.
He was the defense secretary when the BRP Sierra Madre was intentionally grounded at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in 1999 to serve as one of the country’s military outposts in that part of the West Philippine Sea.
‘Absurd, ridiculous’
The release of the Chinese map follows the harassment and the use of a water cannon against one of two Filipino vessels bringing supplies to the men on the Sierra Madre last month.
The Chinese action then was strongly protested by the Philippines and roundly denounced by its allies.
National Security Adviser Eduardo Año condemned China’s move and reiterated the Philippines’ maritime entitlement as laid down in the arbitral award.
“We do not even recognize the nine-dashed line, [how] much more the 10-dashed line,” he said at a press conference on Thursday.
“Our Armed Forces, our uniformed services, our government will do everything in its capacity to ensure that we are protecting our national interest,” Año said.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros said Beijing also published a 10-dash line map on June 7, 2013, which the DFA strongly protested against in a confidential note verbale.
“A decade has passed and China still seems not to have come to its senses,” she said.
The senator urged Filipinos to resist China’s “absurd” maritime claims using “this ridiculous map” and warned that Beijing would continue to spread fake news and fund sympathetic mouthpieces.
“We must push back. We must not rest until China stops her absurdity,” Hontiveros said.
She also suggested that the Philippines publish an updated map of its own that clearly shows the country’s EEZ, continental shelves and territorial waters in the West Philippine Sea.
Concrete message
Bayan Muna chair Neri Colmenares agreed and called on President Marcos to publish a Philippine map based, among others, on the arbitral award.
“It is a concrete and strong message of the Philippines standing by its territories,” he said.
China’s latest map will only “galvanize more support” for the Philippines and the 2016 arbitral award, according to Senate President Miguel Zubiri.
“There’s a saying ‘misery loves company.’ More countries in the world now become miserable with China’s latest claims,” he said.
—WITH REPORTS FROM JEROME ANING AND MELVIN GASCON
Read more: https://globalnation.inquirer.net/218591/ph-rejects-2023-version-of-china-map-no-basis#ixzz8C2GLu4MO
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BY SOL VANZI
I am a soup person. Rain or shine, I love a bowl of soup with dinner. Sometimes, a bowl of thick soup is dinner.
Like many people my age, I grew up knowing only one kind of sopas—a broth with elbow macaroni and some kind of meat: canned corned beef, ground beef, chopped Spam, or bony chicken parts. The broth is enriched with evaporated milk. It was always served as breakfast, snack, or merienda, an alternative to goto and arroz caldo and very seldom as a separate lunch or dinner course.
SOUP AS MAIN COURSE
Soup can be as simple as canned relief goods sardines with miswa noodles, as rich as San Francisco’s seafood cioppino stew, or as grand as cognac-flamed lobster bisque.
When Filipino groups or families eat out, the soup course ordered is often a viand like sinigang, tinola, or bulalo. The Pinoy way of dining does not follow the Western appetizer-soup-main course program. Very few will dare eat a bowl of sinigang by itself without rice.
Foreign cuisines offer hefty stews that pass as thick soups but are often served as main course: chili, goulash, minestrone. Taken with bread, they are filling and nutritious.
CHINESE SOUPS
Unlike Filipino meals, Chinese lunch and dinner are more structured, with soup served separately at the very beginning, before or right after the cold cuts. The most popular among Pinoys are hototay (sea cucumber), nido (bird’s nest), corn and crab, spinach, and hot-and-sour.
In panciterias, the gooey pork gawgaw is often ordered with fried rice, and hardly ever consumed alone.
The Chinese noodle soup we call mami is not meant to be a meal. Hard times have forced millions to serve it as a viand poured over rice. Similar to mami but more substantial with fat noodles and thick gravy is lomi, laden with egg and meat.
In Iloilo, the Chinese wanton dumpling stars in a bowl of batchoy with pork organs and fried garlic. Also well-loved in Visayas and Mindanao is balbacoa, a collagen-rich stew of tenderized cow’s feet and head, sometimes seasoned with Chinese herbs.
WELCOME RAMEN AND UDON
Before ramen restaurants became popular here, we knew ramen as the cheap instant noodle distributed during calamities. In normal times, instant ramen provides sustenance to students, dorm dwellers, travelers, campers, and street people.
High-end ramen shops have changed that image; air conditioned and classy spaces in popular malls now sell ramen bowls for the equivalent of $8 and long lines greet every opening.
Another Japanese noodle soup dish has entered the picture. Born in Osaka, the udon has fat white noodles made right in the premises. The noodles float in a light broth that is not cloyingly thick. Two of Japan’s most famous udon chains now have shops in Metro Manila. I love Tsurumaru at Robinson Ermita. Amazingly inexpensive!
BY JAMES TABABA
Guadaleva Ballogan Coteng, owner of the Purest Heart Apiary, is a passionate beekeeper in Itogon, Benguet. As she addresses the pressing issue of inadequate local honey supply, her efforts align with the benefits of developing the bee industry. By encouraging sustainable practices and inspiring more farmers to engage in beekeeping, Guadaleva's work contributes to economic growth, environmental conservation, and improved agricultural practices. Her story resonates with the greater narrative of the advantages that a thriving bee industry can bring to the Philippines. Here are some contributions of the beekeeping industry in the country.
Pollination
Pollination is a fundamental ecological process that allows plants to reproduce. Bees are exceptional pollinators due to their foraging habits and specialized body structures. They transfer pollen from the male parts of flowers to the female parts, enabling fertilization and fruit development. By expanding the bee industry, the Philippines can significantly increase crop yields and enhance the quality of fruits and vegetables.
Honey and its health benefits
Honey is a natural sweetener and has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. Its antibacterial and antiseptic properties make it effective in wound healing and preventing infections. Rich in antioxidants, honey can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting overall immune function. It has been utilized as a soothing remedy for sore throats and coughs, and its natural sweetness makes it a healthier alternative to refined sugars. Moreover, honey's prebiotic properties can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion.
Economic empowerment through apiculture
Beekeeping can generate a diverse range of products beyond honey, including beeswax, propolis, royal jelly, and bee pollen. These products have various commercial applications in industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. Individuals and communities can tap into a lucrative market, creating job opportunities and bolstering economic growth in both rural and urban areas.
Safeguarding food security
There is a connection between pollinators and food security. A decline in pollinator populations can lead to reduced crop yields and potential food shortages. With an established bee industry, the Philippines can ensure reliable pollination services, leading to better crop productivity and enhanced food security.
Global collaboration and trade
Bee products, such as honey and beeswax, have a global market demand. By producing high-quality bee products, the Philippines can engage in international trade, fostering economic partnerships and enhancing the country's reputation as a sustainable and responsible producer.
The bee industry in the Philippines confronts critical challenges including pests, diseases, and habitat loss. Addressing these hurdles demands scientific research, meticulous hive management, and sustainable agricultural approaches. Effective solutions can be achieved through collaboration among beekeepers, researchers, and policymakers.
To foster the bee industry's progress, government support is imperative. Policies encouraging beekeeping, encompassing financial aid for startups, training initiatives, resource allocation for research and development, and the establishment of regulations and quality benchmarks, can catalyze thriving beekeeping endeavors. Moreover, facilitating market entry and international trade agreements can bolster the industry's economic influence. Combatting honey fraud with transparent practices ensures consumers access to genuine, high-quality honey. Thus, government-backed strategies are vital for the robust development of the bee industry.
Developing the bee industry in the Philippines holds vast potential for environmental, economic, and social benefits. From fostering ecological resilience and food security to empowering communities and contributing to global sustainability goals, beekeeping stands as a promising avenue for the country's growth.
Photo courtesy of Purest Heart Apiary
