Kapuso star Klea Pineda comes out as gay

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Mar 19, 2023 11:21 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• "My 24th birthday is extra special since I finally mustered up the courage to come out to the world as my true authentic self. Masasabi ko na ito na ang pinakamatapang na desisyon na nagawa ko sa buong buhay ko. I want the world to know that I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community," said Klea in an Instagram post.

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Klea Pineda (Facebook)

StarStruck Season 6 Ultimate Female Survivor Klea Pineda has opened up about her sexuality.

Klea revealed on her 24th birthday today, March 19, that she's a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community.

"My 24th birthday is extra special since I finally mustered up the courage to come out to the world as my true authentic self. Masasabi ko na ito na ang pinakamatapang na desisyon na nagawa ko sa buong buhay ko. I want the world to know that I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community," said Klea in an Instagram post.

Klea added: "My sexuality is just one aspect of my life, and it won’t stop me from chasing after my dreams. I am still the same Klea that you loved and supported throughout the years. The only difference now is I can proudly say that I’m gay!"

(Facebook)

Her full post on social media:

"My 24th birthday is extra special since I finally mustered up the courage to come out to the world as my true authentic self. Masasabi ko na ito na ang pinakamatapang na desisyon na nagawa ko sa buong buhay ko. I want the world to know that I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community.

"I know not everyone will understand and appreciate this decision. But throughout the years, I’ve learned to prioritize the things that give joy and meaning to my life, and revealing my sexuality to the world is a huge part of it.

"By doing this, I hope to inspire and empower others who are still struggling to come into terms with their sexuality. Alam ko mahirap at nakakatakot, but please know na walang mali sa atin at walang kulang sa atin kahit pa magpakatotoo tayo. Marami man ang manghusga, mas marami pa rin ang tatanggap at magmamahal sa’yo nang buong-buo. Just be the person that your younger self would be proud of!

(Facebook)

"My sexuality is just one aspect of my life, and it won’t stop me from chasing after my dreams. I am still the same Klea that you loved and supported throughout the years. The only difference now is I can proudly say that I’m gay!

"From now on, I want to live my life fearlessly. Sana samahan nyo ako sa paggawa ng sarili kong kwento na alam kong tunay na magpapasaya sa akin.

"Let’s spread love and empowerment, everyone! And always remember, #LoveIsLove!"

NEDA okays new rules on foreign ownership

Foreigners can now fully-own key public services

BY CHINO S. LEYCO

Mar 20, 2023 10:25 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The National Economic and Development Authority releases the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 11659 or the Amendments to the Public Service Act (PSA) on March 20, 2023.

• NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan says the IRR has undergone extensive review and consultations with the public, legislators, relevant administrative agencies, and other key stakeholders.

• Upon its effectivity on April 4, 2023, foreigners will be allowed fully-own select industries in the country such as airports, railways, expressways, and telecommunications. 
• Balisacan says the PSA amendments would attract more foreign investments to the country, boost market competitiveness, foster innovation, and create high-quality jobs.

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The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has released the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the amended Public Service Act (PSA) that allows full foreign ownership of some Philippine businesses.

In a statement Monday, March 20, NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan assured that the IRR has undergone extensive review and consultations with the public, legislators, relevant administrative agencies, and other key stakeholders.

Belisacan also said all 21 government agencies, including NEDA, approved the IRR of the amended PSA, which will become effective on April 4, 2023.

“With the IRR already in place, we see this as a landmark reform that will further improve the country’s position as an ideal investment hub, which will help enhance employment opportunities and allow more Filipinos to benefit from more improved goods and services,” Balisacan said.

Upon its effectivity, the amendments to the PSA shall enable the liberalization of key public services by allowing full foreign ownership of businesses in select industries such as airports, railways, expressways, and telecommunications.

Prior to the approval of the amendments, foreign ownership in the aforementioned industries was limited to 40 percent.

Meanwhile, public service utilities such as electricity transmission and distribution, water and wastewater pipeline distribution system including sewerage, petroleum and petroleum products pipeline transmission systems, seaports, and public utility vehicles remain subject to the 60:40 foreign equity limitation.

Accordingly, the amendments also provide safeguard provisions to protect the country against national security concerns that may arise through any proposed merger or acquisition, or any investment in a public service.

“The PSA amendments form a critical part of our endeavor to attract foreign investments to the country to boost market competitiveness, foster innovation, and create high-quality jobs,” Balisacan said.

Further, relevant administrative agencies may issue guidelines and circulars for the effective implementation of RA No. 11659 and its IRR, provided that these remain consistent with Commonwealth Act No. 146 as amended, as well as with RA No. 11659 and its IRR.

“Together with complementary policies and measures… we are confident that the Philippines will be able to attract much-needed capital and technology, sustain its high-growth trajectory, and generate high-quality jobs enabling rapid poverty reduction in the next six years,” Belisacan said.

Malabon holds first 'Musikalabon' music fest

BY DIANN IVY C. CALUCIN

  

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The Malabon City government held its first music festival at the Malabon Sports Complex, on Saturday, March 18.

"Musikalabon" is a 9-hour non-stop music concert organized by the city government and Isang Bigkis Malabon City Eagle led by former Malabon City Representative Ricky Sandoval.

It was co-presented with FAB-EM Event Management.

Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN

According to Sandoval, the event was the first music fest held in the city. It was also a fundraising event for Isang Bigkis Malabon City Eagle.

Isang Bigkis is the Malabon City chapter of the Fraternal Order of Eagles-Philippine Eagles, which is the first fraternal socio-civic organization in the country.

The group has been striving to help underprivileged communities since its establishment last year. It had conducted several outreach programs, environmental activities, and medical distribution of medical supplies like reading eyeglasses and wheelchairs.

The former city representative said all the funds collected from the event will be used for educational and medical missions.

"Lahat po ng kikitain ng concert na ito ay ibabalik po namin sa inyong lahat at sa mga taong nangangailangan (We will return all the proceeds from this concert to all of you and to the people in need)," said Miel Delos Reyes, Isang Bigkis president and founder.

Sandoval said they came up with the concept of a music festival as they believe that it would get the residents to come together and enjoy with a purpose.

Several artists performed songs of all ages and genres during the event including Wency Cornejo, Stealing Molly, Ian Sndrz, and Neil Raymundo.

Disc jockeys (DJs), including Ron Poe, Tina Ryan, and Deejay Philly also entertained the audience.

"Music has the power to unite people of all ages and backgrounds, and this festival is an excellent example of how it can be used to support charitable causes and bring positive change to society," the former congressman said.

Isang Bigkis members said they are committed to ensuring that the event was a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, adhering to all health and safety protocols and guidelines issued by the government.

Dhea Magboo, Musikalabon event producer and founder of FAB-EM Events Management, said they had prepared the event for more than a month. She said the festival was also designed to give the city a "contemporary and vibrant image" that fosters economic growth.

"We believe that Musikalabon is not just about providing a day of entertainment but is also an opportunity to give back to the community. This festival is an excellent opportunity for individuals and organizations to come together to celebrate music and contribute to a worthy cause," the event producer said.

The ticket price ranged from P500 to P1000.

Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN

Foods and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages were also offered to attendees.

Around 600 people, including those who are non-residents of the city, attended the event.

Sandoval expressed his gratitude to their partners and sponsors that contributed to the success of the city's first music fest. He said they are hoping to have this kind of music festival annually.

Ateneo sweeps UP to end four-game slide

BY NIKOLE JAVIER

Mar 19, 2023 5:17 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The Blue Eagles snapped their four-game slide at the expense of the Fighting Maroons’ determined rally in the third to improve 2-5 in the standings.

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Ateneo downed University of the Philippines with a 25-16, 25-20, 25-22 sweep to end its first round campaign in the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament on Sunday, March 19, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.

The Blue Eagles snapped their four-game slide at the expense of the Fighting Maroons’ determined rally in the third to improve 2-5 in the standings.

Vanie Gandler led the charge for Ateneo with 17 points off 13 attacks, two blocks and two aces, while Faith Nisperos added 14.

Vanie Gandler delivers to help Ateneo end its four-game slide against UP. (UAAP Media)

After breaking out of a deadlock twice midway through the third set, all it took was Gandler and Nisperos’ three straight points to put away UP and seal the much-needed victory for Ateneo.

“We missed this feeling [of winning]. And we really hope that [it continues]. I thank the players for accepting the challenge to have a strong character in this game kung sino man ‘yong kalaban,” said Ateneo head coach Oliver Almadro.

Jewel Encarnacion was the lone bright spot for the Fighting Maroons with 11 built on 10 attacks and an ace as the rest of her teammates was limited to a single-digit showing.

Meanwhile, the Fighting Maroons fell 1-5 in the standings as they are set to meet the Adamson Lady Falcons on Wednesday, March 22 to wrap up the first part of the tournament. 

NAIA Airport Lifts This Requirement | Immigration Sparks Outrage

Latest Travel Guide to the Philippines ✨ For Filipinos (Filipino):    • UPDATED TRAVEL GU...   ✨ For Balikbayans (Former Filipinos and their Families):    • FEBRUARY 2023: UP...   ✨ For Foreign Nationals:    • Latest Travel Gui...   🔴 All passengers bound for the Philippines must register to E-TRAVEL: https://etravel.gov.ph/ Tutorial Guide for E-TRAVEL (ENGLISH):    • E-TRAVEL UPDATE: ...   Tutorial Guide for E-TRAVEL (FILIPINO):    • GAWIN MO TO BAGO ...   Source of Info: https://iatf.doh.gov.ph/wp-content/up... Philippine Exit Requirements for Foreign Tourists, Balikbayans, Duals, and Filipino Residents Abroad:    • AUGUST 2022: THIN...   👉🏽Filipino Tourists departing the Philippines may be required by Philippine Immigration to secure travel medical insurance. For this, you may check out Safetywing: https://www.safetywing.com/a/24818256 👉🏽Foreign Tourists, except those covered by Balikbayan Privilege, may be required by airlines and immigration to show an exit ticket. You may rent a ticket here to satisfy this requirement for just $14: https://onwardticket.com/jennifer ( FYI - The links above are affiliate codes/links. This means I may get a reward at no additional cost to you when you use them. Thanks in advance because it helps support the channel :) Want to stay longer than 30 days? It’s easy!:    • IMMIGRATION RULES...   First extension Quick Process:    • GOOD NEWS! NEW SY...   💰SENDING MONEY TO THE PHILIPPINES? This is what I personally use for quick transfers: https://www.worldremit.com/en/r/JENNI... The first transfer is FREE plus you get a $10 voucher! 👋Hello, my name is Jennifer Terri, and I am a 26-year-old gal from Tagum City, Philippines. I make Philippine Travel News & Updates to keep you informed and up-to-date on the latest travel news, ensuring that your trip runs smoothly and without any issues. All of my videos are available to watch for free, and I simply ask that if you find any of them informative or helpful, you consider giving them a thumbs-up and subscribing to my channel. Subscribe here:    / jenniferterri   If you would like to provide additional support to my channel, I have included the link below. Thank you! Support through Paypal: https://www.paypal.me/jhodgson564 DISCLAIMER: The content in this video is for general information only. This is not legal advice. Always do your due diligence. #JenniferTerri

WHY JEEPNEYS WILL REMAIN

 

By ReniMV Valenzuela

A jeepney without a jeepney-look is jeepney no longer.  Oddly, the "modern jeepney" the government is usually showing us in the news is far from being a jeepney. It is equal to expunging the Filipino from Filipinos, partly. 

Modernize our public utility transport, but please don't do it by dumping our cherished culture, custom, identity, selfhood, peculiarity and historical heritage. Jeepney is a part of the Filipino diary. 

My personal attachment to our jeepneys is beyond my school, innocent days despite driving a car for most of my life. The link goes joyously from sentimental to historical as jeepneys bring nostalgia and wonderful memories to me of the years gone by as a young person, even as I sometimes still ride jeepneys and MRT/LRT going to an appointment when I get stuck in heavy traffic. I remember one of the very first songs that I've composed was written and done when I was riding a jeepney, awestruck by the disarming beauty of a smiling, shy-looking girl in front of me. 

I wonder if the way the government wants to modernize and progress our country was how visionary Jose Rizal saw the Philippines in his dream would one day become, apropos to his aspirations for the motherland, to which he offered his life willingly, heroically. Were all these the sense of our national hero bravely turning backwards to face his executioners to be shot in the heart on 30 December 1896? 

Why copy others to dash ourselves for who we are? Retain the jeepney look and let our jeepneys, modernized as we want it to become, to be the jeepneys of tomorrow.  The Filipino jeepney is iconic and artistic, variant in colors to represent our multi-shaded complexion as a people/nation. It is a symbol of liberty for all of us, historically. Bring the jeepneys back to be among the tourist experiences that foreigners can look forward to and enjoy when they come/visit our beloved, beautiful, "colorful" country - with all the great stories down memory lane behind the chronicled, world famous "Filipino Smile." 

But solve widespread criminality first, including government corruption and misdemeanors even in our premiere airport, alas!. But why propose in Congress to privatize the airport or change its name, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, when there is no other name that can be better than it (NAIA or naiyak na bayan) in significance? It is one way to declare to the whole world our vastness (in spirit) as a people. And it is in being ourselves that only we can rise, shine and emerge best as a nation - as Filipinos. 

May I suggest that we restore our calesa or karitela in certain historical places/spots of our country like Intramuros, Rizal Park, Mactan Shrine, Sandugo Shrine, Corregidor Island, Baguio City, Biak na Bato, Banaue Rice Terraces and some others, not just in Calle Vigan - for better tourist endearment and exploit, and better appreciation of our hollowed, treasured, rich, forgotten past - by both foreign and local tourists. Let the universe have a glimpse of our roots, heroes and great Creator not just in places we promote, but in all of us, Filipinos of today, more importantly. Shape up. 

"Your testimonies are my heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart." - Psalm 119:111

Sell the Philippines to boost tourism and economic development, but don't sell our soul.

renivalenzuelaletters@yahoo.com

Kylie Verzosa reveals dating Marco Gumabao before Jake Cuenca

BY STEPHANIE BERNARDINO

  

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Beauty queen-turned-actress Kylie Verzosa admitted recently that she and hunk actor Marco Gumabao were once an item.

In an interview with Boy Abunda, she shared that it was long before she and ex-boyfriend Jake Cuenca started dating.

“A long time before Jake, long way before Jake — mga two years ago. We tried. We tried it out, but we were…bata pa kami nun eh,” she told Boy.

Kylie reiterated she and Marco remain good friends.

“Happy ako sa lahat ng mga pinagdaanan niya sa buhay niya. I’ve seen him grow as an actor, as a person. Nagka-catch up pa rin kami. So yeah, we remain very good friends,” she said.

Well, it's obvious as the two are to star together in "Baby Boy, Baby Girl."

Kylie also admitted that she and  Jake are yet to communicate almost a year after their publicized breakup.

“I know it’s been a long time pero siguro in time. Only time will tell kung we’re able to already see each other in a friendly setting,” she said.

“Ayoko siyang pilitin pero darating ang panahon when we’ll meet each other and maybe, who knows? Time will only tell.”

Jake is now rumored to be in a relationship with sexy actress Chie Filomeno.

TUBBATAHA The Crown Jewel of the Philippines

TUBBATAHA Reefs Nature Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sulu sea of the Philippines. The marine and bird sanctuary consists of two huge atolls and the smaller Jessie Beazley Reef covering a total area of 97,030 hectares. Over 700 species of fish and 360 species of corals can be found.

PLDT to buy Sky Cable for P6.75B

 

By The Manila Times

THE third time could be the charm for PLDT Inc., which has been seeking to take over ABS-CBN Corp.'s cable TV and broadband business, following an announcement on Thursday of a P6.75-billion deal for Sky Cable Corp.

In disclosures, both PLDT and ABS-CBN said the Pangilinan-led telco would be purchasing 100 percent of Sky Cable's outstanding capital stock from the broadcast network, Lopez Inc. and Sky Vision Corp.

The deal remains subject to certain conditions, including that of securing all government approvals, Sky Cable getting out of the pay TV and cable business, and focusing solely on broadband, stockholder consent, and that "no event shall have occurred that would prevent a party from fulfilling its obligations or the transactions contemplated from happening."

PLDT Chairman Manuel Pangilinan previously offered to buy Sky Cable from embattled ABS-CBN in 2020 but dropped the bid due to monopoly issues. One of PLDT's affiliate businesses is Cignal TV Inc., which also provides cable TV services.

Cignal then offered to buy 38.9 percent of Sky Cable for P2.86 billion last year as part of a deal between ABS-CBN and PLDT where both would have taken stakes in each other. The agreement, however, was called off after regulators and legislators objected.

ABS-CBN, which lost its franchise in 2020 after Congress refused to renew the authorization, is now focused on creating content and servicing former rivals such as GMA-7 and Pangilan-owned TV 5.

In its disclosure, the firm said the Sky Cable sale "was a strategic decision resulting from, among other things, the significant capital expenditure requirements of Sky Cable to maintain its competitiveness."

"The proceeds from the sale of the shares of ABS-CBN and the settlement of Sky Vision's obligations to ABS-CBN will be used by ABS-CBN to settle and fund its retirement obligations," it added.

"The sale of the company's ownership in Sky will also allow ABS-CBN to focus its resources on content creation."

PLDT, for its part, said "the proposed transaction is aligned with PLDT's mission to narrow the digital divide by expanding broadband connectivity and supports the government's push to expand the nation's digital infrastructure."

It is also "expected to benefit the existing broadband subscribers of both PLDT and Sky by strengthening and expanding the coverage of their offerings and services, particularly in remote areas, and upgrading overall customer experience through the combined expertise, resources and capabilities of PLDT and Sky."

How the cable TV business would be wound down was not detailed. ABS-CBN said the service would continue while regulatory approvals were being secured.

"Once approvals are obtained, Sky Cable is committed to working with all its cable TV subscribers to ensure a transition to their preferred service," it added.

ABS-CBN will receive approximately P4 billion for its 58.7-percent stake in Sky Cable. It will receive 94 percent of this once closing conditions are satisfied, with the rest to be paid upon delivery of registration and tax clearance certificates.

The overall purchase price was said to have been based on an agreed implied equity valuation minus Sky's recorded payables and contingent liabilities as of Dec. 31, 2022, based on Sky's latest audited financial statements and a PLDT due diligence review.

PLDT's share price fell by P10, or 0.76 percent, to P1,300 while ABS-CBN's lost 0.68 percent, or 5 centavos, to P7.26 amid a 0.95-percent drop for the benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index.

Fare discount scheme ready for rollout – LTFRB

By Franco Jose C. Baroña

March 17, 2023 

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is preparing to implement a nationwide fare discount scheme for public utility vehicles (PUVs) as proposed by the Department of Transportation (DoTr).

The DoTr in an earlier memorandum to the LTFRB called for lower fares for traditional and modern jeepneys, buses and UV Express.

The proposal includes a P12 to P9 rollback for traditional jeepneys and P14 to P11 for modern jeepneys. A fare cut of P3 to P4 is being considered for buses.

The memo did not mention fare cuts for UV Express.

The LTFRB said that the discounted fare scheme will be implemented after the termination of the Libreng Sakay (free ride) program along Edsa.

"We also have to take the cue from the Office of the (DoTr) Secretary, how they intend to do it. I think the only thing they will do is give the people a discount so that the P1.2 billion budget for the program can be used for many transport services on a nationwide scale," LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz 3rd said.

"I believe the budget may last only for about six months — half a year. So as early as now, I am requesting the DoTr to come up with additional funding so that the budget will last until the end of the year," he added.

The budget for the service contracting program was reduced from P8.4 billion in 2022 to P2.16 billion in 2023.

This year's budget includes P1.285 billion in programmed appropriations and another P875 million lodged under unprogrammed appropriations.