BETTER JOBS NUMBERS
By Cai U. Ordinario
AMID the improvement in the country’s employment data, the number of Filipinos looking for better jobs grew in October 2024, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
On Friday, the PSA said the number of Filipinos
Filipinos increased to 6.08 million in October 2024 from the 5.6 million posted in October 2023 and 5.78 million in July 2024. “ The latest survey results show positive employment outcomes, with notable progress in reducing unemployment. Full-year headline
figures reflect sustained improvement but underscore the need to intensify efforts to create more and better-quality jobs to meet the target set in the Philippine Devel-
opment Plan (PDP) by 2028,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said in a statement.
Recto: PHL labor force still vibrant as unemployment rate keeps dipping
F
INANCE Secretary Ralph G. Recto on Friday highlighted the sustained strength of the country’s labor market as the unemployment rate fell to 3.9 percent in October 2024, bringing the year-to-date average to 4.0 percent—well below the full-year target range. The Philippine Development Plan sets the unemployment rate target for 2024 at 4.4 percent to 4.7 percent.
“ This means our labor market continues to improve and we are on the right track. But we won’t stop working because government’s program to help create better-quality jobs will continue to that Filipinos can see their incomes grow and they can climb out of poverty faster,” Recto said, speaking in Filipino.
The country’s unemployment rate in October 2024 improved from 4.2 percent in the same month last
Th is translates to an additional 369,000 Filipinos with jobs com-
pared to October 2023, bringing the full-year employment creation to approximately 845,000.
The DOF pointed out that country’s underemployment rate
also stood relatively low at 12.6 percent despite being higher than the 11.7 percent recorded in Octonalysts have flagged the worsening underemployment rate ear-to-date, the underemployment rate declined to 12.2 percent in 2024 from 12.5 percent in ith this, the total number of Filipinos employed rose to 48.2 million in October 2024, higher than the 47.8 million figure in Oce DOF chief’s statement noted that more and more youth are also entering the labor force, comprising 79 percent of the 908,000 new entrants in the job market for October 2024.
many people as possible can remember my brother. Please understand that I cannot contact everyone individually.”
The elephant in the room WHILE Park’s death was due to a cardiac arrest, the fact that he was young and the sudden nature of his passing leaves fans in shock and mourning. Some
Secretary Ralph G. Recto:
A LABORER paints a house along Edsa in Pasay City, earning daily wages to make ends meet. This reflects the broader challenge of underemployment in the Philippines, where 6.08 million Filipinos were reported underemployed as of October 2024, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. The data underscores the urgent need for sustainable and better-quality job opportunities to uplift workers in similar situations. NONIE REYES
Recto: PHL labor force still vibrant as unemployment rate keeps dipping
The services sector continued to dominate the labor market, making up 61 percent of the total employed persons in October 2024. This was followed by agriculture (21.2 percent share) and industry (17.9 percent share) in employment. The administrative and support service activities sectors were the biggest employment drivers for the month, adding 247,000 more workers to the labor force compared to the previous year. Most of which were call center jobs.
The Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) projected the call center subsector’s revenue to reach nearly $38.0 billion in 2024, surpassing its forecast with a 7-percent growth from $35.5 billion in 2023.
Other sectors that posted additional jobs included accommodation and food service activities (215,000); transportation and storage (202,000); construction (121,000); and mining and quarrying (101,000).
Wage and salary workers also continued to make up the largest share of employed persons in the country at 63.8 percent in October 2024. Th is was due to the increase in managerial positions, with 1.91 million Filipinos in managerial
“P
rograms like Green Skills for Green Jobs equip workers with technical skills for renewable energy projects, addressing the impact of climate change on traditional sectors.”
roles recorded in October 2024— higher by 165,000 from the previous year.
In particular, 78.2 percent of wage and salary workers were employed by private establishments, while only 14.6 percent were employed by the government.
Govt measures to boost employment
THE recently enacted Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) Act is expected to attract more capitalintensive investments into the country and generate jobs in higher value-added sectors.
The government is also investing in human capital development through Republic Act No. 12063 or the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act, which bridges education and industry needs, enhancing workforce skills and employability.
Meanwhile, the National Economic and Development Authority
(Neda) is set to finalize the Trabaho Para sa Bayan (TPB) Plan, a 10-year strategy to create a dynamic labor market by addressing skills gaps and fostering industry-academiagovernment collaboration.
I n line with the rise of digital technology, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the IBPAP are working to reskill and upskill the workforce for artificial intelligence (AI) roles.
The government has also developed a comprehensive set of policies and institutions to address climate change, given that job losses were recorded in the agriculture, fishery, and forestry sectors in October 2024 due to the successive typhoons.
Th is includes the implementation of the Green Skills for Green Jobs program by DOLE and the Department of Energy (DOE) to support the highly technical skills needed in the renewable energy sector, such as project managers, engineers, and environmentalists.
Underemployment dims better jobs numbers
Of the 6.08 million Filipinos who are underemployed, 3.43 million are considered visibly underemployed and 2.65 million are invisibly underemployed.
Visibly underemployed are Filipinos who are working less than 40 hours a week. Invisible underemployed is the category for those Pinoys who, despite working 40 hours a week or more, still desire more hours of work to increase their incomes.
Invisible underemployment increased by 350,000 or 15.2 percent compared to the 2.3 million posted in October 2023. Visible underemployment, meanwhile, increased by 136,000 or 4.1 percent from the 3.3 million posted in October 2023.
“Additional underemployed individuals seeking more working hours, [were] primarily from the wholesale and retail trade, agriculture, and forestry sectors. Despite this, full-year figures show a slight decline in underemployment to 13.3 percent in 2024 from 13.6 percent in 2023,” the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) said.
PSA said the bulk of the invisible underemployment came from wholesale and retail trade with 596,000 invisible underemployment; construction, 390,000; agriculture and forestry, 385,000; transportation and storage, 265,000; and manufacturing, 225,000.
“T
he latest survey results show positive employment outcomes but underscore the need to intensify efforts to create more and betterquality jobs.”
Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan
Year on year, sectors that saw large increases in invisible underemployment came from wholesale and retail trade with 129,000; manufacturing with 84,000; and construction with 54,000.
However, Neda emphasized collaboration with industry experts to support the information technology-business process man-
agement (IT-BPM) sector in adapting to artificial intelligence (AI).
Th is partnership aims to address challenges, leverage emerging opportunities, and promote upskilling and reskilling initiatives to equip the workforce with the advanced skills needed in today’s evolving labor market.
We are confident that we can further enhance the labor market and create more and better-quality income opportunities for Filipinos,” Balisacan said.
“ This aligns with our goal of fostering sustainable and resilient economic growth for the country, even as we navigate disruptions such as AI and other emerging technological advancements,” he added.
In light of recent calamities across various regions, the government will prioritize developing a governance framework for publicprivate partnerships to finance climate-resilient infrastructure and provide emergency employment assistance and other support for displaced workers.
The Department of Labor and Employment will also continue granting cash-for-work wages under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay Para sa Ating Displaced Workers program.
Next month, Neda will publish the 2024 Philippine Development Report, which will provide a comprehensive assessment of sectoral performance and recommend policy directions and strategies for 2025 to 2026, including the labor sector.
NOT ALL THAT GLITTERS IS GOLD: A look into the Korean entertainment industry
Th is was the topic of a CNN article that looked into the death of Parasite actor Lee Sun-Kyun, who was found dead in his car on December 27, 2023. In the passenger seat was a charcoal briquette, which is often used in suicide through carbon monoxide poisoning.
At the time of his death, Lee Sun-Kyun was 48 years old and left behind two children; he was being investigated on allegations of illegal drug use and went through many rounds of lengthy questioning from the police.
Throughout the investigation Lee’s drug tests all came back negative.
Parasite director Boo Joonho, who worked with Lee along with other prominent figures, called for an inquiry into the role that the media and police played in his death.
In August 2023, Suga of Korean super group BTS was fined $11,500 for an electric scooter DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol) offense. Suga, whose real name is Min Yoon-gi, was brought in by the police for questioning after he fell to the ground while driving an electric scooter near his place of residence.
Suga issued an apology over the incident: “This is inexcusably something I have to take responsibility for, I bow my head in apology to everyone,” he said in a statement. “I apologize to those who were hurt by my irresponsible and wrong actions, and I will be even more careful with my actions to prevent such matters from occurring in the future.”
A cultural divide
THE incident has created a divide between international fans of the group and their Korean counter-
parts, with the latter expressing disappointment with Suga, and accusing him of damaging BTS’ scandal-free reputation. Other fans even demanded that he leave the group, with some even going so far as to lay wreaths of flowers with messages calling for him to leave BTS. These were placed outside the offices of HYBE, the group’s agency.
A s if adding insult to injury, the “Suga Challenge” became a trend on social media, with users posting photos and videos of themselves fake driving while drunk, openly mocking Suga, even posting with the hashtag #SugaChallenge and with captions like: “Always with you MinYoo-gi.”
On the other hand, international fans of BTS were more understanding and expressed their concerns over Suga’s mental health, adding that he is only human and can make mistakes.
Th is divide among fans is a clear reflection of the difference in culture and upbringing.
Vee Bautista, a BTS fan from Rizal, had this to say about Suga’s ordeal: “It was such a worrisome issue to deal with. He was basically incognito since he entered the military, and we were so worried about his overall health and how he was holding up amid the backlash. ARMY [BTS fans] are always ready to protect SUGA at any time and cost. Filo ARMYs [Filipino ARMYs] even had a ’Purple Walk of Love’ in September [from all over the Philippines] to show support for SUGA and the fight against disinformation and bullying.”
The writing on the wall ALTHOUGH Park Min-Jae’s death was a natural one, the public cannot help but think of the many Korean stars and celebri-
ties who died at a young age by suicide because of the intense pressure that they face from the public. Fans can’t help but think that perhaps Park was also facing pressure from work, and while not intentional, this could have caused a strain on his health. This is all speculation, of course, but the writing on the wall is clear: the pressures of Korean entertainment and the public are all too real and immense and that something has to change.
A nd perhaps, we are approaching a turning point in history.
L ast November 28, the fivemember Korean girl group New Jeans announced that they will be parting ways with their label ADOR (a subsidiary of HYBE), the severance being due to allegations that the label violated their contract.
Twenty-year-old New Jeans member Hanni tearfully testified in front of the Korean Parliament on bullying and artist treatment in the K-Pop industry last October 15.
“I hope trainees don’t suffer these [bullying] incidents and that’s why I decided to appear,” Hanni said. “I know it’s not going to solve all the problems in the world, but if we just respect each other, at least there will be no problems with bullying and harassment in the workplace.”
Hanni’s testimony can be the beginning of opening conversations about working conditions for artists and accountability for their record labels and agencies.
A n investigation on the working condition of the entertainment sector is currently being done by South Korea’s Environment and Labor Committee of the National Assembly. It may be a small step, but it is a step in the right direction.
80% of PHL land degraded; DA pushes organic fertilizer
By Ada Pelonia
WITH 80 percent of the country’s land degraded, the Department of Agriculture (DA) is pushing the use of organic fertilizer to improve soil health.
Agriculture Undersecretary for Operations Roger Navarro stressed the need to foster awareness that soil degradation comes from the abused use of inorganic fertilizer.
“Our estimate [for soil degradation] is we’re at least already there about 80 percent nationwide. That’s alarming,” Navarro told reporters in Filipino on the sidelines of World Soil Day 2024 on Thursday. He explained that deteriorated soil would not absorb inorganic fertilizer. Instead, it would either evaporate, thus contributing to greenhouse gases; or would leach out and contaminate waterways.
“Even if you’re going to put more bags [of inorganic fertilizer] in your soil, you won’t get any yield because it has already deteriorated,” Navarro said. The DA official emphasized that soil rehabilitation would entail augmenting organic fertilizer, soil ameliorants and biofertilizers.
“We need to inform them that these are the protocols that we need to adopt in order for us to rebuild our soil and increase the yield of the land,” he said. Navarro noted that the agency has started experimenting with a regenerative soil program for palay planting in 16 regions, including Cagayan Valley, Northern
Mindanao, Soccsksargen and Bicol.
He said the program began with a maximum of 1 hectare, which they plan to increase to 100 hectares to see if the interventions are effective.
“If it’s a controlled environment in a small area, the results can really be good. But if you’re going to multiply it in a bigger area, there might be some kind of adjustment and calibration,” Navarro said.
In a speech, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) noted the importance of soil for the agriculture sector.
“Around 95 percent of our food comes from the soil, yet, alarmingly, 33 percent of soils worldwide are already degraded due to various threats and poor agricultural practices [ . . . ] This stark reality highlights how fragile and irreplaceable our soils are,” it said.
Earlier, the DA released guidelines on the establishment of a composting facility for biodegradable waste (CFBW) to improve soil health by using organic fertilizers.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. issued Memorandum Circular (MC) 31, which states that using compost could reduce farms’ and households’ dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which would cut production costs and increase returns on investment.
“This is one method to minimize groundwater pollution and restore soil fertility, thereby reducing the vulnerability of marginal farmers to the high cost of chemical fertilizers,” the MC read.
MMDA to allow provincial buses along Edsa from Dec 20-Jan 2
AS the volume of vehicles traversing Edsa has already reached 464,000, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced on Friday that beginning December 20 until January 2, provincial buses will be allowed to traverse Edsa for faster turnaround time and to accommodate more passengers as increased volume is expected as holiday season looms.
According to MMDA Chairman Romando Artes, the volume of vehicles is expected to further increase to 470,000 to 480,000 on the second to third week of December, with travel speed averaging 18 kilometers per hour—substantially lower than the normal 21 kph.
The MMDA chief said the
travel speed is expected to decrease further to around 15 kph as Christmas nears.
“Albeit there is an expected increase in vehicular volume this Christmas season, we want our bus operators to serve more passengers for their convenience and faster travel to their respective destinations,” Artes said, as he likewise assured that bus carousel trips will not be affected by this adjustment for the holiday season.
On December 20 to 25, provincial buses are allowed to traverse Edsa starting 10pm to 5am; and on December 26 to January 2, 2025, these buses will be allowed on Edsa for 24 hours.
All provincial buses coming
Bong Go gets Lifetime Achievement Award at 4th Siklab Youth Sports rites
SEN. Christopher “Bong” Go, Chairperson of the Senate Committees on Youth and Sports, was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award during the 4th Siklab Youth Sports Awards, which celebrated the nation’s top young athletes and sports advocates, honoring their achievements in local and international arenas.
Among the awardees, Go was the sole recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award for his unwavering dedication to advancing Philippine sports and empowering young Filipino athletes. The previous year, during the 3rd Siklab Youth Sports Awards, Go received the Godfather of the Year award.
“With or without an award, I will serve our fellow Filipinos and athletes. To our youth, please
Oct manufacturing output shrinks 1.8%, PSA reports
By Cai U. Ordinario
THE manufacturing sector’s output contracted 1.8 percent in October 2024, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Based on the Production Index and Net Sales Index or the Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries, the Volume of Production Index (VoPI) posted a contraction for the second consecutive month this year.
In October 2023, the VoPI grew 1.4 percent while in September 2024, it declined 5 percent. The VoPI also posted contractions in March and January at 4.7 percent and 0.7 percent, respectively.
“This brings the average growth rate of VoPI for manufacturing from January to October 2024 to 1.7 percent. In October 2023, the VoPI for manufacturing recorded an annual increase of 1.4 percent,” PSA said.
PSA also traced the slowdown in the VoPI to the slower growth rate of manufacture of beverages industry division at 6.8 percent
in October 2024 from an annual drop of 8 percent in September 2024.
The data also showed that the manufacture of beverages contributed 29.7 percent to the trend of VoPI for the manufacturing section in October 2024.
Other main contributors to the slower annual decline of VoPI in October 2024 were the doubledigit annual increment in the manufacture of wood, bamboo, cane, rattan articles and related products at 26.4 percent in October 2024, higher than the 24.3 percent posted in the previous month.
Another contributor, the PSA said, is the faster annual increase of manufacture of transport equipment at 6.7 percent during the month from 3.2 percent in the previous month.
“[The data showed] 10 out of
the 19 remaining industry divisions exhibited annual increases during the period. Meanwhile, nine industry divisions posted annual declines in October 2024,” PSA said.
The top three industry divisions contributing to the overall year-on-year growth rate of VoPI for manufacturing in October 2024 were the manufacture of basic metals; manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products; and manufacture of other nonmetallic mineral products.
Meanwhile, for the manufacture of food products, the VoPI decelerated in October 2024 to 5.9 percent from an annual increase of 6.6 percent in September 2024.
The data also showed that in October 2023, VoPI for manufacture of food products posted an annual decline of 2.5 percent.
“The slower annual growth rate of VoPI for manufacture of food products in October 2024 was mainly brought about by the same top three industry groups that contributed to the slower year-on-year growth rate of VoPI for manufacture of food products,” PSA said.
These were the manufacture of dairy products; manufacture of
‘Strategic expansion’: Air Canada flying direct Vancouver-Manila route starting April 2, 2025
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
CANADA’s flag carrier Air Canada will fly direct between Vancouver and Manila four times a week beginning April 2, 2025.
This “strategic expansion” of Air Canada was announced during the Canadian Trade Mission to Manila led by Canadian Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development of Canada Mary Ng.
“We are thrilled to add Manila to our global network with new, year-round, non-stop service from Vancouver, Air Canada’s Pacific gateway hub. We continue to pursue our international network strategy of expanding to large, fast-growing markets that are presently unserved directly by Air Canada,” Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning, and
ABy Andrea E. San Juan
study hard. You are the future of this country,” he said, speaking in Filipino.
The Siklab Youth Sports Awards is a pioneering event in the Philippines, dedicated to recognizing exceptional young athletes who have excelled in grassroots tournaments such as the Batang Pinoy Games and Palarong Pambansa. It also highlights the accomplishments of youth athletes who have brought pride to the country in international competitions.
This year’s ceremony celebrated 85 individuals across various categories, including Sports Idol, Godfather of the Year, Trailblazer of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, Para Youth Stars, Youth Heroes Award, Super Kids Award,
T least 81 percent of member companies of European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) said they will expand their operations in the Philippines in the next four years due to growth opportunities, according to the 2024 ECCP Business Sentiment Survey Report.
The survey conducted by ECCP showed that 81 percent of respondents plan to expand their company in the next four years, with around 7 percent saying they will contract, and 14 percent saying neither.
Asked about key factors driving business interest in Philippine expansion, 69 percent of respondents highlighted economic recovery and growth opportunities as “highly significant.”
“This optimism is supported by the country’s strong economic fundamentals, including positive
President, Cargo at Air Canada said in a statement.
So far, only Philippine Airlines flies directly to Canada – to Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver.
There are over 1 million Filipino-Canadians residing and working in Canada.
“For our city’s vibrant Filipino community, it brings loved ones closer, makes reunions easier, and opens the door to even more opportunities to connect and celebrate their heritage,” said Vancouver City mayor Ken Sim.
Ng said the new service “will help create stronger connections and partnerships, easier travel, economic growth, and generate shared prosperity.”
“The Philippines is an important market reflecting longstanding family ties between our two countries with growing business connections and tourism opportunities,” Galardo added.
GDP growth in recent years and in the first three quarters of 2024,” the survey noted.
Another crucial factor which fuels the interest of ECCP members to expand their businesses in the country is the “stable government and political system,” which 63 percent of respondents noted as “highly significant.”
“A stable political environment fosters business confidence, attracts foreign direct investment, and ultimately reduces uncertainty,” the chamber noted.
Infra crucial MEANWHILE , 61 percent of respondents pointed out that infrastructure improvements are crucial for efficient logistics, transportation, and overall economic development.
Manila is the third Southeast Asian destination launched by Air Canada in the last two years. The first two were Bangkok and Singapore.
Air Canada will be the only Canadian carrier which serves the Philippines.
The Philippines is the 12th route of Air Canada in its transpacific network from Vancouver. Air Canada has been flying to Japan, Japan, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand.
“With this new service, next summer Air Canada will offer over 180 weekly flights between Canada and the Pacific, the most non-stop flights of any carrier in the market,” Air Canada official said.
The new route will fly for 14 hours from the hubs of Ninoy Aquino International Airport in the Philippines and Vancouver
other food products; and processing and preserving of meat. Meanwhile, the average capacity utilization rate for the manufacturing section in October 2024 was reported at 75.7 percent from the 75.4 percent average capacity utilization rate in the previous month.
In October 2023, PSA said the average capacity utilization rate was recorded at 74.3 percent. All industry divisions reported capacity utilization rates of more than 60 percent during the month.
The top three industry divisions in terms of reported capacity utilization rate were manufacture of machinery and equipment except electrical (85.9 percent), manufacture of other non-metallic mineral products (82.6 percent), and manufacture of textiles (82.3 percent).
The data showed the proportion of establishments that operated at full capacity (90 percent to 100 percent) was 30.4 percent of the total number of responding establishments.
The data also showed 43.4 percent operated at 70 to 89 percent capacity, and 26.1 percent operated below 70 percent capacity.
International Airport in Canada, using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
“With an extensive domestic and transborder network in Vancouver designed to connect seamlessly to our international flights, we are making travel between North America and the Philippines even more convenient for leisure and business travelers alike. It is with great excitement that we look forward to welcoming our customers onboard next spring,” Galardo said.
Philippine passport holders with valid US multiple non-immigrant visas and those who have previously been issued Canadian visas for the past 10 years need not apply with the Canadian Embassy for visas. Instead, they may apply online through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Air Canada tickets originating from Canada may now be purchased today at aircanada. com or through Air Canada contact centers and travel agents. Ticket sales from Manila will be available shortly.
skilling their employees in artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and automation, companies aim to adapt to the evolving business landscape both domestically and internationally,” the ECCP survey noted.
“This shift reflects not only an increasing global awareness of environmental and social issues, but also the increasing integration of the Philippine market with international standards,” said ECCP.
The chamber noted that Philippine-based businesses recognize the need to adapt and adopt sustainable practices to remain “locally, regionally, and globally competitive” as global markets increasingly demand sustainable products and services.
To position themselves for the next four years, ECCP said member companies are prioritizing workforce development and digital transformation.
“By investing in training and
“These investments can significantly reduce costs, improve productivity, and enhance the country’s overall competitiveness,” said ECCP. Meanwhile, the chamber stressed that a “growing number” of businesses, 56 percent of respondents, are prioritizing sustainability practices.
Another strategy of the ECCP member-firms is through digital transformation by embracing technology to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and foster innovation.
Beyond NCR ECCP noted a growing interest among member companies in expanding outside Metro Manila.
“Key cities such as Cebu, Clark, Davao, among others have been highlighted by respondents as promising areas for growth,” the 2024 ECCP Business Sentiment Survey Report noted.
The chamber said this “diversification” strategy reflects a “desire to tap into the potential
NBI discovers POGO hub, nabs 59 in Davao dawn raid
By Manuel T. Cayon
DAVAO
CITY—National
Bureau of Investigation
(NBI) agents arrested 59 suspected workers of a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) at a pre-dawn raid in Barangay Manay Panabo City, Davao del Norte.
NBI Regional Director Arcelito C. Albao said it raided the building at 2a.m. Friday and were surprised to find several computers and mobile phone gadgets, as well as guns and handcuffs in the building.
Of those arrested, 55 were Chinese nationals, three were Malaysians and one a Filipina worker. He said agents responded only to a complaint by a Malaysian worker of physical abuse but when they raided the building, agents found 60 computer laptops in
two rooms.
He said the building was owned by a Filipino and investigation said the alleged POGO hub operated only recently three months ago.
Agents confiscated several passports, identification cards, mobile phones, guns, handcuffs and baseball bats.
Albao said the NBI already coordinated with the Bureau of Immigration for filing of charges.
Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) here announced it will open eight extension offices in Davao Region next year to decongest its main office here, the Philippine Information Agency said on Friday. Yuri Lim, head of the regional law enforcement section of LTO regional office here, said extension offices will be put up in the provinces of Davao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao
Oriental and Davao City.
In Davao del Sur, the offices will be in Bansalan in the west and Sta Cruz in the east. In Davao City, the offices will be in Calinan in the nortwest and Bunawan-Lasang area in the north. Offices will also be in Pantukan in the southern part of Davao de Oro and in Compostela in its north.
In Davao Oriental, the offices will be put up in San Isidro in the west of the province and Caraga in the northeast.
“The opening of the said offices will decongest the existing district offices,” Lim said.
Lim said that the basis for the location of the new extension offices “is more on the distance between the existing district and extension offices.”
There are nine district offices and four shopping mall-based of -
fices of LTO XI spread throughout the region.
“Compared to mall-based offices that are only limited to renewal of driver’s license and issuing of student permit, these newly created extension offices are full-blown offices that will cater to student permit applicants, renewal of driver’s licenses, renewal of registration, application of driver’s license (among others,” he said.
As of now, his office has already coordinated with the mayors of the identified towns to accommodate the extension offices in the existing buildings of the local government units.
“The personnel will come from the district offices; the office will also hire new ones; and hopefully, the local government units can also provide manpower complement,” he said.
DepEd, OCD hail signing of Ligtas Pinoy Ctrs Act
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco & Rex Anthony Naval
EDUCATION Secretary Juan Edgardo
“Sonny” Angara is optimistic that learning recovery can immediately take place after disasters, following the enactment of the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, a law mandating the establishment of dedicated evacuation centers in every city and municipality across the country.
“This legislation is a game-changer not only for our disaster response, but also for public education. It addresses a long-standing issue of public schools being used as evacuation centers. With this law, we can ensure that learning recovery can immediately take place after disasters,” Angara said as he and the whole Department of Education (DepEd) lauded President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and lawmakers for the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act or Republic Act No. 12076.
The Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act can eliminate the reliance on public school facilities by providing evacuation centers
Continued from A3
and Rising Stars Award.
In his acceptance speech, the senator expressed gratitude and
designed to meet the needs of displaced individuals during typhoons, floods, earthquakes, and other emergency situations.
C urrently, the DepEd allows public schools to serve as evacuation centers.
T he use of school facilities is capped at 15 days to minimize disruptions in education. The Department’s policy directive is that classrooms must only be used as a last resort by the local government units (LGUs).
“In vesting in these climate-resilient facilities must be the norm for we are not only protecting the people’s lives but also capacitating our local government units to respond, to reduce, and to manage the risks of disasters,” Marcos said.
Under the la w, evacuation centers will be strategically located at safe distances from danger areas, guided by geohazard maps from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), and Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services
renewed his commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes.
“I’m so proud and of course to our PSC, which during my term as chairman of the [Senate] Committee on Sports, got for us an Olym -
Administration (Pagasa).
T hese structures will adhere to stringent standards, including the ability to withstand wind speeds of up to 300 kph and seismic activity up to an 8.0 magnitude.
E ach center must be well-ventilated and be equipped with essential facilities, such as sleeping quarters, separate shower areas, kitchens, healthcare spaces, and recreational areas, among others. These features ensure not only the safety but also the dignity and wellbeing of evacuees.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) will serve as the lead implementing agency, working closely with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Department of Science and Technology to ensure the program’s seamless implementation.
pic gold through Hidylin Diaz...and now we made history again with the twin golds of Carlos Yulo, and Olympic medals as well for kay Nesty Petecio, and Aira Villegas,” Go said.
“Let’s help each other in
OCD chief hails signing
MEANWHILE Office of Civil Defense(OCD) administrator, Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, called a “significant milestone” the signing of the “Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act”.
“We wish to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering leadership and vision in enhancing our disaster preparedness and response mechanisms,” he said in a statement.
Nepomuceno said the establishment of permanent evacuation centers across every city and municipality is not just a legislative achievement but also a testament to the government’s collective resolve to protect the most vulnerable.
“Your recognition of the urgent need for dedicated, resilient spaces for those affected by disasters reflects a profound understanding of the challenges faced by our communities,” he added.
Lessons learned from past calamities have highlighted the inadequacies of temporary shelters which often fail to meet the specific needs of displaced families, he added.
sports. As chairman of the [Senate] Committees on Health, Youth and Sports, I believe that health and sports are connected. If we are physically fit, we live longer. Let’s support our athletes,” he added.
By Samuel P. Medenilla
RESIDENT Ferdinand Mar -
Pcos was officially presented on Friday the original print of the Murillo Velarde 1734 Map of the Philippines, the “formidable piece of evidence” used as basis in the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration to debunk the historic claims of China in the West Philippine Sea.
The historic map called the Carta Hydro-graphica y Chorographica de las Yslas Filipinas or mother of all Philippine maps was turned over by the Filipino technology entrepreneur Mel Velarde to the Philippine government in Malacañang.
Marcos called Velarde a “steward of the nation” for his initiative of obtaining the map in an auction in London and then donating it to the Philippine government.
“In 2014, it found its way back home through Mr. Mel Velarde, who is here with us today and who deserves a very large round of applause for what he has done,” the President said during the presentation ceremony.
“Through his generosity, this invaluable piece of history was not locked away in obscurity but it was restored to its rightful owners: to us, the Filipino people,” he added.
The Murillo Velarde map was created by cartographer Francisco Suarez and engraved by Nicolas de la Cruz Bagay, with
Continued from A3
from the north shall terminate their trips in Cubao, Quezon City, while those coming from the south shall terminate their trips at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange or in Pasay City.
guidance from Spanish Jesuit Father Pedro Murillo Velarde. It was among the over 270 maps submitted by the Philippines to the Arbitral Tribunal constituted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in 2013.
“These maps were crucial in establishing the Philippines’s entitlement to maritime areas, as reaffirmed in the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea,” Marcos said.
“The Murillo Velarde Map, in particular, provided critical evidence to demonstrate that the Philippines has continuously exercised authority and jurisdiction over what it is now identified as Panacot Shoal—now Scarborough Shoal—and Los Bajos de Paragua— Spratly Islands,” he added.
With the Murillo Velarde Map bolstering the country’s claims in the West Philippine Sea, Marcos urged every Filipino to help defend it from foreign incursion.
“Let us not only admire the artistry of the masterpiece presented to us today, but also draw inspiration from its enduring message: the call to protect and to assert what is rightfully ours, with resolve and with integrity,” Marcos said.
“Let us ensure that the legacy of the Murillo Velarde Map continues to guide us in our journey as a nation, steadfast in our identity and resolute in our aspirations,” he added.
More than 2,100 buses will benefit from the holiday traffic scheme. He reminded the public to plan their trips well, particularly going to malls where adjusted operating hours are currently implemented. Duty of MMDA traffic personnel is extended until 12 midnight from the normal deployment of until 10pm. A “no absent, no leave” policy is also implemented for the duration of the Christmas season. Claudeth Cocon-Ciriaco
MARCOS JR. OFFICIALLY RECEIVES MURILLO VELARDE MAP FOR GOVT ECCP.
Continued from A3
of these markets, which offer a skilled workforce, relatively lower operating costs, and strategic geographic locations.”
ECCP explained further that by expanding into these areas, businesses can access new markets, reduce operational risks, and contribute to regional economic development.
In contrast, respondents identified “outlook concerns” over the next four years.
The chamber stressed the need to address issues on: governance and political stability; policy continuity and predictability; transparency and streamlining of regulations and policies across the sectors.
Meanwhile, ECCP also cited geopolitical risks and uncer -
tainty in different parts of the world as among those that emerged as “significant concerns” for respondents.
“These external factors can have ripple effecys on the domestic economy, impacting trade, investment and supply chains,” the Survey noted.
With this, ECCP said, “The 2024 ECCP Business Sentiment Survey captures the optimism of European businesses in the Philippines while acknowledging the hurdles that need to be addressed to drive growth.”
To utilize the country’s potential, the chamber said “robust” public-private partnerships are essential.
“By addressing issues such as bureaucracy, infrastructure, and policy consistency, the Philippines can position itself as a more competitive and investor-friendly destination,” ECCP said.
Time
Dreaming of a ‘green’ Christmas
my
By Nick Tayag
sixty-zen’s WORtH
WhEN triggered, the destructive power of nature and climate meets nobody halfway. We’ve seen this scenario happening in the four typhoons that recently ravaged our country one after another in a space of two weeks.
Climate change is real. It is a serious threat. Now we are seeing and feeling the effects of ignoring it all these years. Media people are bringing it up more frequently in their on-the-ground reporting as well as commentaries and discussions and interviews with experts, government officials, and survivors. Even in my casual conversations with fellow seniors, climate change is seen as an existential issue that needs to be confronted now.
Indeed, experience is the best teacher and we are learning our lessons in the hardest and most traumatic way.
This is why we should not allow the growing climate consciousness go to waste. Let’s seize this timely opportunity to wake everybody up from the languor and stupor of indifference about climate change.
So, instead of singing or listening to Irving Berlin’s iconic song “White Christmas,” I am dreaming of a “Green Christmas” starting this year and every year after that.
I dream of a Christmas that becomes a special occasion for each home and family to reconnect with nature, the creative matrix that supports all life, in the belief that the celebration of “Emmanuel” (God made human) is in a broader sense all about God becoming part of his creation.
I dream of a Christmas meal that consists of fruits, plants, rice cakes, fish, and organic food served on banana leaves instead of plates, with pitchers of fresh fruit juices on the side, which allow us to express our gratitude and respect to nature for its “aguinaldo” of healthful bounties.
I dream of a Christmas where the most exciting talk at the “noche buena” table revolves around shared ideas on how to re-use, recycle or upcycle old clothes, old toys, old objects into something cool and new.
I dream of a Christmas celebration that’s simple, meaningful and purposeful and educational for the family.
I dream of a Christmas that harks back the good old days of “pasko sa barrio” in which nature
Expanded Centenarian Act to benefit elderly OFWs
By Marita Moaje
Thousands of elderly overseas Filipino workers (oFWs) stand to benefit from Republic act (R a) no. 11982 or the Expanded Centenarian act, which will be fully implemented in 2025.
In a news release on Friday, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said it expects an efficient distribution of benefits through the Elder Living System, a program designed to address the needs of thousands of elderly OFWs and their families.
DMW Undersecretary Dominique Tutay and Assistant Secretary Venecio Legaspi signed the 2024 Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 1 in Quezon City on Nov. 27, alongside the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) and several government departments including the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of the
was part and parcel of our Christmas celebration such as lanterns made of bamboo taken from our neighbor’s backyard.
I dream of a home filled with Christmas decors using spare material found around the house, like turning old paper into paperchains, or old clothing or recycled plastic bottles.
I dream of a carbon-free celebration of Christmas, where LED lights brighten Christmas trees and lights are switched off at night.
I dream of people exchanging sustainable Christmas gifts made from 100 percent recycled materials, or pack of seeds or bag of coffee beans where wrappings are made of biodegradable or recycled paper jute bag , made from natural fiber, instead of plastic ribbons and tape, or foil-backed and glittery wrapping paper.
I dream of a Christmas in which people buy the change they want to see in the world with the help of ethical gifts that are driving positive change for people and planet.
I dream of a Christmas where grandkids sit around their Lolo as he talks about valuable lessons about the environment such as living in harmony with our environment, being responsible and conscious stewards of nature and co-existing with all living and nonliving creature.
In dreaming of a green Christmas, let us take inspiration from the medieval European custom of showing deep respect for things by naming them as saints, where the Earth became known as “St. Terre”, which later became the word “saunter” – to walk upon the Earth with reverence.
If every home and family can share this dream, the world might stem the inexorable march of climate change, one decor, one gift, and one toy at a time. We might see the end of destructive typhoon seasons and long dry seasons. Yes, we may see the end of the use of fossil fuel. We may have less plastic in our lives. But who needs them if it means paving the way for a better, more livable world for tomorrow’s generations.
Let me end this dream with my Christmas message to one and all (with apologies to Irving Berlin): I’m dreaming of a green Christmas with every recycled card I write. May your days be carbon free and clean And may all your Christmases be green.
Interior and Local Government, and the Commission on Overseas Filipinos.
The CFO-DFA-DILG-DMWNCSC JMC establishes guidelines for providing benefits to Filipino octogenarians, nonagenarians, and centenarians as per RA 11982, which amends RA 10868 (Centenarian Act of 2016).
During the signing, the DMW emphasized its dedication to ensuring that all eligible senior citizens, both here and abroad, receive benefits from the law, which President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed into law on Feb. 26, 2024.
“Senior overseas Filipino work-
ers embody both sacrifice and success, inspiring future generations,” Legaspi said.
The Expanded Centenarian Act grant a P10,000 cash gift for those celebrating their 80th, 85th, 90th and 95th birthdays.
The P100,000 cash gift for 100-year-olds is the key feature of RA 10868.
The Elderly Data Management System, a digital tool, will help facilitate the distribution of the benefits, ensuring that qualified senior citi-
zens, especially those living abroad, receive assistance efficiently and transparently.
The DMW has prioritized senior OFWs in its 10-Point Agenda, pledging to develop specialized programs that tackle the unique challenges faced by elderly migrant workers.
The DMW also stated it will collaborate closely with the NCSC and other agencies to ensure the successful worldwide rollout of the Expanded Centenarians Act. PNA
1,009 centenarians in Central Visayas receive over ₧100M
By John Rey Saavedra
CEBU CITY—The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported that a total of 1,009 centenarians in Central Visayas received a total of P100.9 million worth of cash gifts and presidential citations from 2016 to 2024.
Shalaine Marie Lucero, regional director of DSWD-7, said that since the implementation of Republic Act 10868 or the Centenarian Act of 2016, DSWD has been consistent in sending presidential letter of felicitation and P100,000 cash gift to all centenarians.
Of the 1,009 centenarians in Central Visayas who have received the presidential greetings and cash gift, 77 percent or 778 were females while 23 percent or 231 were males.
Lucero reported that Cebu has
the highest number of centenarians at 474 (males, 96 and females, 378), followed by Bohol with 282 (males, 73 and females, 209), Negros Oriental with 217 (males, 58 and females, 159), and Siquijor with 36 (males, 4 and females, 32).
It was discovered that the common factors of their longevity are personal practices such as good eating habits, healthy lifestyle, values, deep faith in God, walking, adequate hours of sleep, and positive disposition.
In 2025, the implementation of RA 10868 will be transferred to the National Commission of Senior Citizens.
“The transfer of the implementation includes sharing of data, briefing with the commission on the processes and steps to be undertaken such as the conduct of cash advances, how to engage with LGUs (local govern-
China’s silver economy blooms as elderly embrace education and community in changing
By Kanis Leung | The Associated Press
hONG KONG—Every Wednesday, retiree Zhang Zhili travels an hour by bus to an education center, drawn by the pulsing rhythms of the African drum she plays there in a classroom filled with fellow retirees whose hands move in unison, every beat lifting her spirits.
Zhang, 71, has found joy and new friends at the “elderly university” in Beijing. Besides African drums, the former primary school teacher joins social dance classes, paying about 2,000 yuan ($280) for two courses this semester. Seeing herself standing tall in dance class boosts her confidence. After class, she hangs out with her friends.
“When we get old, what do we need?” she said. “To love ourselves.”
Many older Chinese are looking beyond traditional nursing homes, afraid of abandonment by their families and quality issues. That’s driving a boom in universities, home care services, and communities catering to older adults. Though some providers struggle to turn a profit, they persist because they see promise in the growing market.
China has a rapidly aging population. Last year, about 297 million people were aged 60 or above, over one-fifth of the population. By 2035, this number is forecast to exceed 400 million, or over
30 percent of all Chinese. That’s fueling growth in services and products aimed at older adults in what Beijing calls the silver economy, which is projected to balloon from about 7 trillion yuan (about $982 billion) currently to approximately 30 trillion yuan (about $4.2 trillion) in 2035, raising its share in the economy from about 6 percent to roughly 10 percent, hu Zuquan, a researcher at the State Information Center, a public institution affiliated with China’s main planning agency, told state media.
Du Peng, dean of the school of population and health at Beijing’s Renmin University, said the government is expanding basic care services to all older people who need them, moving beyond its traditional focus on those without family support. Last year, officials compiled a list of basic care services they aim to make available nationwide, including providing ability assessments for those over 65 and care training subsidies for family members of those who are disabled. Filial piety runs deep in China and most older people prefer aging at home with family after they retire, typically when they’re 50 to 60 years old, one of the youngest retirement ages among the world’s major economies. Many help care for their grandchildren, and for some, nursing homes are seen as a kind of abandonment, except in cases of serious disability.
In January, Beijing issued new guidelines calling for expanding home care services and meal deliveries and more clothing, food and tech products tailored for older adults. They include enriching their lives through education. home-based services offer a more affordable alternative to nursing homes, alleviating accommodation costs, Du said. Most older Chinese are relatively healthy, and these able people perhaps need richer cultural lives rather than disability care, he said.
Cai Guixia, 60, said she has found fulfillment in African drumming and modeling classes. She thinks she would feel “forsaken” in a conventional nursing home, preferring to hire a domestic helper.
Liu Xiuqin, an owner of two care homes, saw business opportunities in meeting those needs. She invested more than 800,000 yuan (about $112,000) to open a school in Beijing. Cai and Zhang are among its 150 students attending classes in dance, singing, yoga and modeling training for about 1,000 yuan ($140) per course each semester. Outside the classroom, her team organizes gatherings where students can socialize.
Liu expects to break even in another year and is prepared for the wait. She believes in the market’s future, given that the generation born in the 1960s and later values quality of life and health more than their parents did.
“It’s not about making quick money,” she said. “It requires persistence.” Turning a profit is proving challenging for some silver economy businesses. In the southern city of Guangzhou, Wu Tang co-founded a school last year after his geotechnical investigation and surveying business was hit by the downturn in China’s property market. his school offers courses to help people achieve some of their childhood dreams, but he has yet to cover his costs. he also faces competition from cheaper government-run courses. And there’s Cui Yang, who runs a care station in Beijing, sending helpers zigzagging across the district to provide 30 yuan ($4.20) haircuts at home; accompanying people on hospital visits for 50 yuan ($7) per hour and other services. Even with
ASEAN youth fellows aspire for a more innovative, connected region
SINGAPORE—Southeast Asian youth leaders from the region’s member-states and Timor Leste recently gathered for the sixth edition of the Asean Youth Fellowship (AYF).
The programme is jointly organized yearly by the Singapore International Foundation (SIF) and National Youth Council (NYC)-Singapore. It seeks to link and grow emerging young leaders with a focus on public, private and people-sector ties.
This year’s 44 delegates included those from Timor-Leste, which was represented at AYF for the first time.
In early November, AYF 2024 took fellows to Singapore as well as Vientiane and Luang Prabang in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR). At the programme, they discussed topics such as digital transformation, inclusivity and sustainability in the region with prominent thought leaders from diverse sectors. They shared perspectives on possible solutions to address common challenges in these areas.
The fellows also had the opportunity to engage in various conversations with Education minister Chan Chun-sing in Singapore, and Lao Youth Union’s deputy secretary general Thongly Sisoulith in Vientiane. Both highlighted the importance of strengthening connectivity, resilience, and regional cooperation within Asean.
In both countries, the fellows gained insights from visits to organizations at the forefront of innovation and future-readiness. In Singapore, they visited the Sembcorp Tengeh Floating Solar Farm: the country’s first inland floating solar photovoltaic system. They also witnessed first-hand how the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority leverages technology to supplement border-control management at Woodlands Check -
point: one of the world’s busiest land crossings accommodating an average of 350,000 travelers daily.
Lao PDR’s fellow Phetmany Viyadeth said “Asean countries have significant opportunities to work together on innovative solutions in areas such as education, which can drive long-term progress across the region. For instance, we could create a region-wide educational framework to enhance access to quality education and digital literacy. By working together to improve education and bridge skill gaps, member-countries can build a more resilient, skilled, and forward-thinking community, ready to tackle future challenges.”
In Vientiane, the fellows visited Makerbox Lao: a community workspace that leverages stateof-the-art digital fabrication facilities for experiments on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics or STEAM projects. Its founders spoke about its collaborative environment that has helped foster innovation in the community. This echoed Lao PDR’s call as Asean chair in 2024 to strengthen cross-border collaboration for a more connected and innovative region.
They also visited Luang Prabang: a UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Office) World Heritage Site, as part of their cultural immersion experience. They tried their hand at making handicrafts at Ock Pop Tok: a group dedicated to preserving its countries traditional textiles and crafts.
Indonesian fellow Israruddin said “having a more interconnected Asean can strengthen resilience by fostering shared knowledge and
resources, as well as best practices across borders. For instance, collaborative disaster response systems and health-care initiatives could bolster resilience, allowing countries to support each other in times of crisis. By strengthening connections, [the association] can enable local communities to benefit from a wider network, reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing their capacity to face future challenges collectively.”
Encouraging fellows to further their collaboration after the programme and create greater impact in the region, the “AYF Impact Fund” was introduced to aid ground-up initiatives which promote youth development, community building and other related causes. It provides SG$5,000 for each fellow’s initiative, or up to SG$20,000 for each project that fellows organize as a team.
One such project was the “Asean Women Empowerment Portal.” AYF alumni from Singapore, Myanmar, Vietnam and the Philippines created the platform for women across the region to exchange ideas and experiences and learn from one another on issues unique to the region.
Inspired by the AYF Impact Fund, Indonesian fellow Janu Muhammad said “many young farmers in Southeast Asia are facing challenges related to low interest in agriculture, economic instabil -
ity as farmers, lack of capacity to deal with climate change and limited access to resources. Through the AYF Impact Fund, I hope to promote ‘agri-preneurship’ by using artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things or IoT to increase the income of young farmers in the hydroponics and aquaponics sector in Southeast Asia so that they can be more prosperous. I am looking at implementing this pilot project… with other fellows from Indonesia and Cambodia.”
For NYC CEO David Chua, “the AYF is a key youth-leadership programme that cultivates and connects established young leaders from diverse sectors in Asean. Our youths play an instrumental role in strengthening regional ties, and AYF provides a launchpad for regional impact and opens up opportunities for youths to gain insights and valuable networks to navigate complex challenges [of the region].”
Meanwhile, SIF CEO Corinna Chan said that “in the face of global challenges such as climate change, food security, and public health, youths can help to drive innovative solutions with their fresh perspectives and bold approaches. I am glad that the AYF continues to be a platform which brings young [regional] leaders together to connect, collaborate and cooperate in building an innovative and connected Asean.”
PROMOTING INDUSTRIAL PEACE THROUGH LABOR EDUCATION
Sec. Bienvenido E. Laguesma of the Department of Labor and Employment (center) and President-CEO Ramoncito S. Fernandez of Maynilad Water Services Inc. (third from right) signed a memorandum of agreement on the conduct of the Labor Relations Training Program on November 15 at the Maynilad Main Office in Quezon City. The partnership aims to equip Maynilad’s managers with skills on handling grievances and resolving conflicts among rank-andfile and supervisory employees through the DOLE’s labor-education services.
INSEAD activates latest Global EMBA Flex course
FONTAINEBLEAU (France), Singapore, Abu Dhabi, San Francisco—INSEAD, “The Business School for the World,” has just announced the launch of its new “Global Executive MBA Flex (GEMBA Flex)” program: the innovative addition to the school’s well-established Global Executive MBA portfolio designed for ambitious executives seeking a flexible pathway to their professional growth. The program offers great flexibility for participants to learn while maintaining the same rigorous curriculum and admissions criteria.
INSEAD’s Degree Programmes
dean Mark Stabile said: “We are excited about the launch of the GEMBA Flex programme. Building on [its two decades of success, the new offer re -
flects our commitment to innovation and excellence in business education. This] aligns with our vision of providing rigorous, relevant management education and empowering the next generation of leaders to transform business and society.”
Key highlights of the INSEAD GEMBA Flex program include: World-class education that maintains the same rigorous curriculum and admissions criteria as the traditional GEMBA program. Participants will benefit from INSEAD’s worldclass faculty, general-management education and a diverse, multi-campus experience across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the United States; Flexible learning format that offers a unique blend of in-person modules, live virtual classes and
asynchronous online learning. This format allows participants to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments, providing the freedom to learn from anywhere in the world;
Personalized learning experience that enables participants to adapt their learning experience as their needs evolve. With a select number of seats, participants can tailor their learning journey, choosing in-person interaction by joining other GEMBA cohorts on campus; or online modules based on personal or work needs;
A diverse and inclusive community reflecting INSEAD’s commitment to diversity and flexibility that attracts participants from diverse nationalities and backgrounds, which
Number
fosters a rich and inclusive learning environment; Career support and networking that gives access to participants on the same level of career support and networking opportunities as those in the traditional GEMBA programs. This includes in-person networking during modules and interactions with other GEMBA sections during electives.
Sustainability and global impact significantly reduces the carbon footprint and travel emissions. This ecofriendly approach also lowers travel costs for participants.
The INSEAD GEMBA Flex’s inaugural cohort will commence in May 2026. Visit https://www.insead.edu/ master-programmes/global-executivemba/gembaflex for more information.
Editor: Mike Policarpio
of Filipino higher education students in US reaches 15-year high
MORE than 4,000 Filipinos decided to pursue their higher education in the United States in the last school year, according to the International Educational Exchange’s “Open Doors 2024” report released on November 18 to mark International Education Week.
The report revealed that 4,100 Filipinos studied at higher education institutions (HEIs) in the US during Academic Year 20232024, representing a 7.4-percent increase from the previous. It also marks the first time in 15 years that the number of Filipino students on US campuses exceeded 4,000.
According to the report, 2,074 Filipinos pursued their undergraduate studies in the US last AY—almost a 17-percent hike compared to the preceding one.
“This growth highlights the strong educational ties between the Philippines and the US,” Amb. Marykay Carlson said. “[A growing number of] Filipinos are choosing to study in US colleges and universities for their world-class teaching and research opportunities, extracurricular activities, internships and the chance to live independently in a culturally and geographically diverse country.”
The Open Doors report is released annually by the Institute of International Education (IIE), with funding from the US government, to provide information and
data on international students studying in the North American country.
Globally, the total number of international students in the US increased by 7 percent to a record high of 1,126,690 students, according to the report.
The EducationUSA office in the Philippines is a key resource for Filipino students interested in studying in the US. Through its free advising sessions, workshops and outreach activities offered across the country, the office offers free, accurate, comprehensive and up-to-date information about opportunities to study at accredited HEIs in the US.
“From helping students choose the right institution to understanding the application process and exploring financial aid options, EducationUSA Philippines is there every step of the way,” Carlson added.
As part of International Education Week, the Philippine-American Educational Foundation and EducationUSA hosted a free virtual graduate studies fair featuring 50 US universities on November 21. The latter also held its monthly virtual advising sessions for undergraduate and graduate studies on November 30.
For more details on studying in the US and the upcoming International Education Week-related events, visit https://www.facebook. com/educationusa.philippines/ or e-mail manila@educationusa.org.
Benilde entrance exam goes online, incorporates AI-powered proctoring
IN line with its mission of fostering inclusive and innovative e ducation, the De La SalleCollege of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) will pioneer the implementation of a full online entrance examination powered by artificial intelligence (AI) proctoring.
The institution has introduced the revamped Benilde Entrance Examination (BEE) that will offer flexibility and accessibility to l earners, according to a release.
Designed for incoming undergraduate and senior high-school s tudents, the new BEE is based on an updated set of competencies defined by the Department o f Education and the Commission on Higher Education, which is reflective of the K-to-12 curriculum.
To ensure academic integrity and fair assessment, the AI-enabled system adopts facial and v oice-recognition technologies in evaluating the environment, movement, and behavior of the candidates.
Through this new modality, applicants may accomplish the exam r emotely with a laptop or desktop, and a stable internet connection.
The technical requirements will also include a webcam, external microphone or headset, and a mobile phone to be used as a secondary camera.
A pplicants will receive an e-mail confirmation of the schedules and
instructions five working days before the test. They can also view i t on the “Admissions Application Portal.” They are expected to complete the pre-test check prior to the a ctual exam.
Those who require specific assistance or accommodation will be o ffered in-campus examinations by the college that will be held at the designated computer laboratory on identified schedules. S tudents are expected to accomplish the BEE without aids and t ools, apart from plain bond paper and pencil during the Mathematics Exam.
I n addition to AI, both the online and the on-site examination w ill be monitored by a human proctor. Exam takers are advised that BE E is not an open-book testing. Signed instructions will be made available for hearing-impaired applicants of the School o f Deaf Education and Applied Studies or SDEAS. Examinees can view the results online. The portal will likewise indicate if there i s a need for further assessment or interview. The online BEE will commence in time for the application period for Academic Year 2025-2026. Graduates of Benilde Senior High School and other La Salle schools who maintained a minimum grade requirement will be exempted and have seamless entry to the college.
AT community workspace Makerbox Lao, Asean Youth Fellows
HIGH-S CHOOL s tudents attend the EducationUSA Fair.
Tourism Editor: Edwin P. Sallan
BATHED IN TROPICAL SUNLIGHT MARvELING AT CORON’S RICH TAPESTRy
Sunlight streamed through the window, painting the cabin in a warm, golden glow.
As the plane dipped low, a tapestry of emerald islands scattered across the sea welcomed us. This was it. The moment I stepped off the Sunlight Air flight, the air felt different, alive with the refreshing breeze and the promise of adventure. I was bound to Coron, an hour long bus ride from Busuanga Airport. You’ve probably seen Coron’s beauty before—part of it is often featured as a desktop screensaver on many computers and laptops. But beyond its stunning visuals, Coron boasts a rich tapestry of marine life and a fascinating history, from being known as a “Leper Colony” to reinventing itself and showing off a true sanctuary.
As we stepped out of Busuanga airport, we were guided to Sunlight Air's VIP Lounge, free to use for anyone who has booked a flight or a room with their sister company's property, while we waited for the luggage. Earlier when I checked in my luggage, Sunlight Air flights offered us to check in their luggage directly to Sunlight Ecotour -
A
OF PARADISE
Eiron R. Francisco
WHO n eeds to travel far and spend big when a slice of New Zealand’s charm can be found right here in the Southern Philippines?
Two hours from Cagayan de Oro (CDO), located in the green, towering, and peaceful town of Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, is a place often compared to an island country in the South Pacific. But of course, how can we confirm such a claim without seeing it for ourselves? The best way to find out is through firsthand experience.
After a week of fieldwork in the region, my co-reporters and I decided to visit one of Bukidnon’s “best tourist spots.”
We opted for a DIY trip, starting with a Grab ride from our hotel to the Agora Bus Terminal in CDO, where our adventure to Communal Ranch, known for its hidden gems, would begin. According to local history, the name Impasug-ong comes from the Higaonon tribe, one of Bukidnon's seven tribes, and means "make the current come upstream."
The town of Impasug-ong was named after a spring located northwest of Poblacion. The water from
ism Island Resort, or SETIR for short, and if I was going there for day one, it definitely would ensure a comfortable and hassle-free vacation. They also have hotel transfers once you arrive, if ever you booked a stay in their hotel near Coron Town Proper or in SETIR. My first stop was Sunlight Guest Hotel Coron, a charming place with a Mediterranean vibe. It is a bright and cheery hotel, overlooking the bay. The pool was sparkling, much like a sapphire in the morning. The dock has a speedboat or jet that can take guests snorkeling or diving, as it is near Siete Picados, Kayangan lake and others. A stay here would mean lush beds, their Premier room having everything you might need for a cozy stay, from hot showers to a nice garden overlooking the bay, a gym and function rooms too. The morning welcomed us with blue skies, as we set sail to SETIR, an off the grid destination in Naglayan Island, one of the islands of Culion, northern Palawan. It only takes a quick 30 minute boat ride, to get to this area known for its marine biodiversity,
with it being a part of natural category of UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Its remote location offers a more peaceful and exclusive experience far from the usual crowds.
The main attraction here are its over water bungalows settled around Busuanga bay, its white beaches, and open layout, that give off a relaxed vibe. The villas of SETIR are all detailed with Filipino architecture and designs like solihiya and basket weaves for wall decor, which gives a nod to the traditional craftsmanship of basket weaving in Culion. You can even pick if you'll have a sunset or sunrise view. It also has a private port that will welcome you not just with very hospitable staff but a school of really colorful fishes that you can see with its crystal clear waters. SETIR stays true to its name as it aims to preserve its natural wonders, and it is working on more sustainability initiatives. For now, they are limiting single use plastics, you can see water dispensers around the area and little things like encouraging the use of
bikes to get around the island.
The Salepan Expereince I G OT a taste of the Salepan experience on my first day there. "Salepan", in the Cuynon local dialect means sunset. It perfectly describes what one can witness: breathtaking sunsets over the majestic mountains, islands, and shimmering ocean. You also get a glimpse of the island's marine biodiversity down below as it has glass bottom floors like their well known Sirakan Villas. In contrast to SETIR’s other bungalows, this 244sqm villa is set to cater to bigger groups who desire a luxurious, personalized and private stay. You have two floors and two bedrooms, a dining area, a private plunge pool and direct access to the seawater and corals, a 360 view of the islands and the sea in your loft area with seating, a minibar with a Nespresso coffee machine and a smart toilet, to name a few. The added hospitality of your personal butler and personal chef that will cater to any craving that
you might want is what makes this not just a villa but a whole experience.
The next morning, I got to bike around the whole resort, and found myself enjoying the wide open spaces, the lush green trees and seeing all the restaurants that they have in the area. You have quite a plethora of activities to do here, from kayaking, paddle boarding, to diving and snorkeling, enjoying the beach and their infinity pool, or taking a walk in their butterfly garden. You can also just go grab a buggy for service around the island if biking is not for you. There's a fitness gym with a breathtaking view of the sea and islands, the Sanctuary Spa if you want to pamper yourself some more, and a number of restaurants that ranges from Japanese to Western to Filipino cuisine.
I stayed my nights in their spacious Studio Villa, with high ceilings and queen sized bed, with my favorite spot being the veranda that seats two people and looks out to the sea. I find myself enjoying my mornings watching the sunrise out in this veranda.
Beach Dinners and Marine life while enjoying drinks at Luna W E h ad dinner at The Mangrove, SETIR’s standout Filipino restaurant that specializes in dishes like litson belly, pinakbet, Veggie Okoy and to make things even more sweeter, there was also a platter of big luscious crabs served buttered garlic style. For laidback drinks at night, we had a couple of choices. One is Luna, which is a bar that's out away by the dock. At night, it gets magical with the fishes and other marine life that you can see around the restaurant. They also have Ric's place which exudes speakeasy bar vibes, serving high quality whiskey drinks and cigars. We also got a chance to have a three course dinner by the beach, with good food and the gentle breeze whispering through the palm trees, with awesome company. Though tucked away from the welltrodden paths, SETIR and Coron itself reminded me that the most extraordinary travel destinations often lie hidden within our own backyards, waiting to be discovered.
a creek flows alongside the spring, and the original inhabitants named it Impasugong. When the area became a municipality, it adopted the name of the spring, and today, the seat of the Municipal Government is in Poblacion.
Travelers can choose between two public transportation options to get to Impasug-ong: a bus ride with signage for Davao, costing around P150 per person, or a van with signage for Malaybalay/Valencia, priced between P180 and P200. We chose the van for a faster trip, as buses tend to make several stops, whereas the van offers a point-to-point service. After nearly two hours of travel, we finally neared in the ‘Tribal Capital of Bukidnon.’ The sight of the green mountains and the fresh air against our skin marked our arrival. We dropped by the impressive 'Panika' monument, a native headdress symbolizing the integrity of local women, located at the tourism center near the National Highway of Impasug-ong. This was where we caught our second ride to the Communal Ranch. We hopped onto a local tricycle, which can accommodate four to six people.
Although we were excited for the adventure ahead, we decided to first enjoy some lunch and refreshments to prepare ourselves for the midday heat.
Then came the most exciting part of the trip. We boarded another tricycle and headed to the famous “Lovers Lane,” a spot where various local habal-habal drivers are stationed. Here, we could rent a ride to the famous ranch in town. We negotiated the price for the roundtrip ride, which ended up costing around P500. While it seemed a bit pricey, the distance made it worth the cost. As I continued my journey, I found myself gradually becoming more impressed with the beautiful sights around me. To fully capture the experience, I decided to document my trip with the Insta360 Go 3S, a small, handy action camera that's incredibly
easy to use. What made it even better was its enhanced chip, which provides 50 percent more CPU power, along with a new wide-angle lens and the ability to shoot in stunning 4K resolution. Even as we navigated rocky roads, I didn't have to worry about shaky footage, because of the camera's FlowState stabilization. Plus, with an extended battery life of up to 170 minutes when using the Action Pod, I was able to keep filming without interruptions. As we neared our destination, we had to make a quick stop at a designated area where every tourist is required to pay a P70 fee, managed by the local tourism office. After that, we traveled through
another rocky and narrow road, but thankfully, the driver was careful enough to drive safely. At last, the DIY trip had truly paid off.
Surprisingly, upon our arrival, we had the opportunity to witness the Higaonon tribe performing their ritual dances, accompanied by their music, vibrant dances, and colorful attire and accessories And what I once thought I could only admire on social media, I was now face-to-face with—the iconic mountains of Impasug-ong. I was surrounded by the
You’ll definitely be amazed at how these majestic mountains were formed, and you’ll find yourself wanting to stay
Story & photos by Nicole Paler
Story & photos by John
A V I E w of Coron Bayside
D I n I ng and Lanai area of Salepan Villa in SETIR
HIKARI Japanese Dining and Teppan at Sunlight
Sun R ISE at Sunlight Hotel Coron T H E veranda of a Studio Villa in SETIR
S T u DIO V illa in SETIR
F R ESH Crabs served in one of SETIR’s restaurants
S I RAKA n Honeymoon Villas in SETIR
BusinessMirror
Acer launches Acerpure Beauty category in PHL
ONE of the things that Acer did in recent years was to diversify as part of its strategic vision, product innovation, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
The Taiwan-based global leader in IT and technology solutions entered the consumer electronics market via Acerpure, which started with the launch of air circulators and air purifiers.
As a company, Acerpure’s goal is to offer an array of innovative and cutting-edge consumer electronics and home appliances to help improve people’s lives.
The advanced Acerpure Cozy air circulator fans and the pristine cleanliness promised by Acerpure Clean vacuum cleaners bring forth sensations of “pure comfort” and “pure feel,” and this is what has captured the attention of consumers. The appliances are mostly
Home for the holidays? Show relatives you care with some tech support
BY SHAWN CHEN The Associated Press
NEW YORK—It’s time for the holidays, which means robust family conversations and seemingly neverending courses of food. But for the more tech-savvy among us, the journey home could also mean we’ll be called on to provide a backlog of tech support to parents, grandparents and other family members. And with generative AI being used to supercharge some major cyber scams this year, it’s also a good time to teach and not just fix.
Here are some tips on how to manage your tech encounters this holiday season:
white (there is a fan in very pale pink) so they fit right in every home or office.
In the Philippines, Acerpure recently launched its hair drying and styling tools under a category called Acerpure Beauty.
The Acerpure Beauty HD1 is an ionic hair dryer with a 22 million anion technology that helps to reduce frizz and add shine to the hair. It has a unique ProDry Nozzle that evenly distributes heat to dry hair quickly while preventing damage. It also has a five-minute ultra-quick dry function, perfect for busy days.
The Acerpure Beauty HD2 is a 2-in-1 ionic hair dryer and styler that comes with 7 styler attachments for versatile hair styling. It features a high-speed brushless DC motor, 2.2 hundred million anion technology, and a 3-minute ultra-quick dry function. It also has a hair care AI mode, a smart clean function, and a portable, ultra-lightweight design.
“We are very excited to bring Acerpure Beauty to the Philippines. Like other Acerpure products, these will help make people’s lives easier,” said Princess Laosantos, senior marketing manager at Acer Philippines.
Acerpure Beauty products are currently at a special price through the Acerpure Sparkling Holiday Promo. The Hair Dryer is priced at P1,299 from P1,999, while the Hair Styler is priced at P4,999 from P5,999.
Only purchases made from Acerpure Authorized Resellers, Acer Concept Stores, and Acer Philippines Online Stores are qualified for the promo. The promotion runs until December 31, 2024.
As part of its holiday campaign called #AcerMaligayangPasko, Acer Philippines is giving up to P5,000 off on Acer products and up to P10,000 worth of appliance center e-gifts with every purchase of a qualifying Acer and Predator laptop.
Customers must register their purchased product warranty within one week of purchase by visiting warranty.acer.com.ph. The e-gift may be redeemed at any SM Appliance or Abenson Appliance Store nationwide.
From the Acer family comes “Ating Pasko,” a holiday song by Acer ambassadors SB19 and G22. The music video, filmed in Taiwan during SB19 and G22’s visit to Acer headquarters, captures the spirit of gratitude and togetherness during the holidays. The song was composed by Brenan C. Espartinez and produced by Brenan C. Espartinez and Paolo Miguel O. Rañeses.
“Acer Philippines got SB19 a year after they debuted and they have been with us for six years. We have been with them through their journey,” said Laosantos during the Acer Ating Pasko Christmas Party 2024 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall where SB19 and G22 performed. ■
Tala says AI can help serve the underbanked, underserved
BY RIZAL RAOUL S. REYES
LEADING majority platform for global majority forum Tala recently underscored the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain to serve the underbanked and underserved in the Philippines and its other clients in the world.
“I could think about so many applications. But at the core of things is really all about the credit underwriting about using large language models. It is about using data to understand whether someone is credit worthy,” said Moritz Gastl, general manager of Tala Philippines, in an interview during a recent press briefing in Makati City.
The global majority is defined as around 52 percent of the world’s population financially underserved without basic or adequate access to financial services,
GLOBE’S GFiber Prepaid service has established a new standard in customer satisfaction, achieving the highest
Promoter Score (NPS) among all Globe products and rapidly approaching the 200,000-subscriber milestone ahead of expectations. As of August, the latest available data, GFiber Prepaid logged an NPS of 65, higher than that of leading global brands. Its score peaked this year at 71, achieving world-class tier.
This marks a milestone for the recently launched brand that is Globe at Home’s affordable broadband offer, making sustainable connectivity
including borrowing, banking, insurance, payments and remittances.
Gastl said Tala has actually been relatively data-driven since its inception pointing out that the financial technology company has very capable teams sitting in the US working on data modeling. For the past two years, he said Tala has been consistent in delivering the services to its 3.3 million members in the Philippines. He described the task of using technologies as not easy because it required a longer time for deployment. “Based on data points, we then estimate whether a customer is credit-worthy,” asked Gastl. Moreover, he said Tala is going beyond the use of AI to start the use of large language models (LLM).
LLMs can automate and fine-tune several tasks involving natural language processing. It can be used in a variety of industries, including business,
healthcare, education, and law, to improve customer experience, reduce costs, and improve productivity.
“And when we are exploring a bit with AI agents, I would like to figure out—let’s say a customer is overdue, how do we remind the customer in a very human way with an AI. This is obviously something that we are exploring at the moment,” he explained.
Gastl said Tala still sees a lot of opportunities in the Philippines’ lending manifested by the presence of several lending companies.
“We still feel like there is a large opportunity in the Philippines. I have looked at the lending market in the Philippines for more than 10 years. I’m always amazed by the presence of so many players,” Gastl added.
Tala has disbursed over P100 billion in the Philippines.
■ Set devices up for automatic updates. Whether it’s Windows, macOS, iOS or Android, simply keeping your operating system and apps up-to-date will help protect your family’s computers and devices against a surprising number of security threats, such as malware, viruses and exploits. Most operating systems, especially those for mobile devices and their app stores, typically have auto-updates turned on by default. Be sure to doublecheck the device to make sure it has enough storage space to carry out the update. (More on this below.) Keeping apps updated may also reduce the number of “Why isn’t this app working?” type of questions from your relatives.
■ Freeing up storage space. Chances are someone in your family is going to have a completely full mobile device. So full, in fact, that they can no longer update their phone or tablet without having to purge something first.
There are many approaches to freeing up space. Here are a few you can easily take without having to triage data or apps.
■ Use the cloud to back up media: iPhone users can free up space occupied by songs and pictures by storing them on iCloud. Android users can use the Google Photos app to back up and store their photos on their user space.
■ Clear browsing data: Each major browser has an option to clear its data cache—cookies, search and download histories, autofill forms, site settings, sign-in data and so on. Over time, these bits take up a significant amount of storage space on mobile devices and home computers. So cleaning caches out periodically helps free up space and, in some cases, improves system performance.
■ What’s my password? According to some admittedly unscientific studies, the average person has hundreds of passwords. That’s a lot to remember. So as you help your relatives reset some of theirs, you may be tempted to recycle some to keep things simple for them. But that’s one of the bad password habits that cybersecurity experts warn against.
Instead, try introducing your forgetful family member to a password manager. They’re useful tools for simplifying and keeping track of logins. And if you want to impress a more tech-savvy cousin or auntie, you could suggest switching to a more secure digital authentication method: passkeys.
■ Educate your loved ones about the latest scams. As scammers find new ways to steal money and personal information, you and your family should be more vigilant about who to trust. Artificial intelligence and other technologies are giving bad actors craftier tools to work with online.
A quick way to remember what to do when you think you’re getting scammed is to think about the three S’s, said Alissa Abdullah, also known as Dr. Jay, Mastercard’s deputy chief security officer
“Stay suspicious, stop for a second [and think about it] and stay protected,” she said.
Simply being aware of typical scams can help, experts say. Robocalls frequently target vulnerable individuals like seniors, people with disabilities, and people with debt. So-called romance scams target lonely and isolated individuals. Quiz scams target those who spend a lot of time on social media.
■ How fast is their WiFi? Home internet speeds are getting faster, so you want to make sure your family members are getting a high-speed connection if they’ve paid for one. Run a broadband speed test on your home network if they’re still rocking an aging modem and router.
Why you deserve the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra
AND just like that, the countdown to Christmas has begun—just 18 days to go. That means it’s time for our muchanticipated annual gift guide, where I help you find the perfect presents for your loved ones—and perhaps a little something for yourself.
It’s a tradition I look forward to every year, where we celebrate the joy of giving (and, let’s be honest, the thrill of receiving).
This year, we’re starting with something truly special—something worthy of splurging your welldeserved holiday bonus. After all, before you start ticking off everyone else’s wish list, don’t you deserve a little treat for everything you’ve accomplished this year?
Enter the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, the most premium and impressive Android tablet I’ve tested this year. Whether you’re looking to boost productivity, unleash creativity, or indulge your inner tech geek, this tablet delivers on all fronts. Let’s unwrap why this “final boss” of tablets is more than just a gift—it’s the ultimate reward you deserve.
UNBOXING: WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
I WAS quite surprised when I first saw the box of the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra. The package was noticeably larger and heavier compared to my Galaxy Tab S8. As it turns out—and thankfully so—Samsung has ensured that this time everything you need to unlock the tablet’s full potential is included right out of the box—well, except for the wall charger.
Inside the box, alongside the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra unit, you’ll find the standard USB-C cable, a SIM ejector tool, and the usual documentation. What truly sets this bundle apart, however, is the inclusion of the S Pen. In what might be an exclusive Philippine bundle: the Book Cover Keyboard with a trackpad. The inclusion of the keyboard is a game-changer, considering how expensive and sometimes difficult it can be to purchase separately.
The Book Cover Keyboard itself is a standout. Its tactile, responsive keys provide a laptop typing experience, offering far more comfort and efficiency than just relying on the tablet’s on-screen keyboard. But what truly elevates this keyboard is the Galaxy AI Key, which offers quick and seamless access to the tablet’s advanced AI features—more on that later. This thoughtful addition transforms the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra into a true laptop alternative, making it an ideal choice for professionals and multitaskers who need a reliable device for mobile workspaces.
BUILD AND DESIGN:
BOSS-LEVEL PROTECTION
THE Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra retains the design principle of its predecessors which is a good thing as it is already a masterclass in combining elegance with durability. At just 5.5mm thin, it’s one of the slimmest tablets available despite its massive display. It measures 326.4mm x 208.6mm, making it a truly ultra-large device.
Samsung’s design philosophy for the Tab S10 Ultra is about creating a device that feels modern, professional and built to last. The Armor Aluminum frame not only reinforces its structure against bumps and everyday wear but also gives it a sleek, metallic finish that feels luxurious in your hands. However, I would still recommend keeping it inside the cover case for added protection.
The IP68 rating adds a practical edge, making the tablet resistant to both water and dust—again perfect for those who want to bring their work everywhere— or maybe just enjoy a movie while soaking in the bathtub—which I do when I’m at a hotel. DISPLAY AND
Android tablet. It boasts a 2960 x 1848 resolution with a pixel density of 240 ppi, delivering crisp and vibrant visuals. Whether you’re editing photos, sketching designs, or streaming your favorite movies, the display’s rich colors and deep contrasts bring every detail to life.
The display is paired with adaptive brightness and Vision Booster technology, which automatically adjust the screen’s brightness and contrast based on ambient lighting. This makes the tablet easy on the eyes, even during extended use. On top of that, the screen supports a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring butterysmooth scrolling and responsiveness, whether you’re browsing, gaming, or using the S Pen.
My favorite display improvement is the new anti-reflection technology that ensures that glare is minimized, making it equally effective for use indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re working under the sun or relaxing in a brightly lit room, the screen adapts perfectly.
Complementing this visual excellence is a quadspeaker system tuned by AKG. The speakers deliver immersive, crystal-clear sound, and with Dolby Atmos support the audio feels three-dimensional. Together, the display and audio make the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra a powerhouse for entertainment and productivity.
PERFORMANCE AND OS: POWER FOR EVERY BOSS CHALLENGE
TJE Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s performance is nothing short of exceptional. Powered by the latest MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset, it delivers 18 percent faster CPU speeds, a 28 percent boost in GPU performance, and a 14 percent improvement in Neural Processing Unit (NPU) efficiency compared to its predecessor. You can get it with up to 16GB of
RAM and 1TB of internal storage—but if you need even more space, the microSD card slot supports storage expansion up to an additional 1TB. These upgrades ensure that the tablet can handle the most demanding tasks, from multitasking across multiple apps to editing 4K videos. During our month-long testing, the tablet excelled in every scenario. It ran resource-intensive apps without a hitch, handled gaming at high settings with ease, and seamlessly switched between Samsung DeX Mode and tablet mode. It actually sidelined my laptop for most of the month as I did most of my work on this tablet.
The tablet runs on One UI 5.1, Samsung’s intuitive interface that’s optimized for large screens. Features like split-screen multitasking, app pairing, and dragand-drop functionality make managing complex workflows simple and efficient. Samsung DeX Mode, in particular, transforms the tablet into a desktop-like experience, complete with resizable windows and a taskbar.
From creating blog posts, writing articles, to editing photos and videos on Capcut and running my social media campaigns I was able to do everything more seamlessly via the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra.
AI CAPABILITIES: THE FUTURE IS NOW WHAT truly sets the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra apart is its AI integration. All the AI stuff those Samsung Galaxy phones can do? Well, it gets even better with the Tab S10 Ultra. I used to love handwriting notes when I was in college and even during presscons. Well, with the Tab S10 Ultra’s Note Assist feature, I was able to do more than just add annotations and comments as it
can also transcribe the content in real time, formats the text for readability, and even summarizes the key points. This means you can focus on the discussion without worrying about missing important details. Messy handwriting even doctors can’t read?
With Handwriting Help the AI straightens and aligns handwritten text, making your notes look professional and organized and even convert it to text. Whether you’re jotting down ideas during a brainstorming session or taking quick notes on the go, this feature enhances clarity and usability.
Sometimes, I receive emails from Japanese Game developers who forget to attach the english version of their press releases, so I just trash them but with the PDF Overlay Translation, the AI can translate documents into your preferred language. The translated text overlays directly onto the original PDF, preserving its layout and making it easy to read. This feature is very useful for those working with international clients, or researchers navigating foreign-language materials.
CAMERAS, BATTERY, AND EXTRA FEATURES
WHILE tablets aren’t primarily designed for photography, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s dual rear cameras are great for quick snapshots or document scanning. Offering a 13MP main lens and an 8MP ultra-wide lens on the rear, these cameras are great for scanning documents or capturing quick photos. The more useful ones are the dual 12MP cameras up front, one of which is ultra-wide making it perfect for video calls. Whether you’re hosting a virtual meeting or catching up with friends, the ultra-wide lens ensures everyone stays in frame.
Battery life is another strong point. The tablet packs a 11,200 mAh battery, providing up to 9 hours of screen-on time even during heavy use. When you need a quick charge, the 45W Super Fast Charging gets you back to 50 percent in just 30 minutes. This means less downtime and more time getting things done.
FINAL WORD: With a starting price of around P92,990 for the 12GB + 256GB variant and P99,990 for the Premium Bundle Pack (12GB + 512GB with Keyboard Cover), the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is undeniably a pricey investment. But it’s one that pays off in every way. This holiday season, consider treating yourself to more than just a device but a tool that takes your work to the next level, sparks creativity, and simplifies your life. Because when it comes to your productivity and potential, why settle for anything less than Ultra? ■
WITH GLOBAL LAUNCH, OPPO FIND X8 SERIES WITH COLOROS 15 SETS NEW STANDARD FOR FLAGSHIP SMARTPHONES
TOUTED as the world’s leading smart device brand, OPPO hosted in Bali, Indonesia, the global launch Find X8 Series and ColorOS 15. Debuting the all-new Find X8 and Find X8 Pro, each is set to redefine flagship smartphone excellence in its class.
“Until now, flagship camera phones with ultra-zoom, power, battery life and AI tools have been weighed down by thick, heavy designs, but Find X8 Series changes the game. Find X8 is a thin and light powerhouse with ultra-beating battery life and a periscope zoom. Find X8 Pro takes zoom further, delivering ultra-grade experiences without the bulk. And with ColorOS 15’s smart and smooth experience, Find X8 Series is set to mark an exciting shift for the smartphone industry,” said Pete Lau, SVP and Chief Product Officer at OPPO.
OPPO Find X8 is loaded with ultra features. Of note is that it had fitted an incredibly slim periscope zoom camera into
a masterfully balanced, sleek, light design at 7.85mm thin and weighing just 193g. Immersive yet compact, it combines a 6.59” display with an ultra-narrow 1.45mm symmetrical border, keeping its size down while making it a joy to handle and behold. And with its fingerprint-resistant diffuse finish available in Star Grey, Space Black and Shell Pink, Find X8 looks as good as it feels. Fans of bigger screens, get ready for Find X8 Pro. It puts an ultra-immersive 6.78” picture in your palms, showcases quad-curved glass on both sides, and debuts OPPO’s dual-periscope telephoto camera for global markets. Find X8 Pro is available in Space Black and Pearl White, with each Pearl White device featuring a unique pearlescent pattern—no two are the same— infusing an exclusive quality to the color.
Both Find X8 and Find X8 Pro carry forward the Find X line’s tradition of
introducing breakthrough camera innovation, with both featuring OPPO’s latest Hasselblad Master Camera System. Going the distance, with AI Telescope Zoom, Find X8 Series can reach further than ever before, activating at 10x and beyond. Each can also freeze time in an instant with Lightning Snap, taking up to seven photos every second without compromising on flagshipgrade photo processing. OPPO’s silicon-carbon battery is ultra-beating at 5630mAh for Find X8 and 5910mAh for Find X8 Pro. And with latestgeneration MediaTek Dimensity 9400 power, enjoy smooth, cool performance for a full day and beyond.
It takes world-class software to elevate ultra-grade hardware, and ColorOS 15 perfectly complements Find X8 Series. Its seamless visuals, intuitive elements, and powerful, time-saving AI tools put everything you need at your fingertips.
Pacquiao named to Hall of Fame
Madis, Aludo dispose of foreign opponents to earn semis berths
THE Philippines’ Tennielle Madis and Stefi Marithe
Aludo downed separate rivals Friday to reach the semifinal round in the Coca-Cola Philippine Tennis Association International Juniors 2 at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center. The top-ranked Madis defeated No. 6 Naomi Hagi of Hong Kong, 6-0, 6-4, to advance against No. 4 Alexandra Cheishvili of Russia, who walked over Shinar Zahra Shukayna Heriyadi Sunggoro of Indonesia. A ludo, seeded third, conquered Kannchaya Chungwatana, 6-1, 6-3, to advance against No. 2 Jihun Oh of Korea. Oh, the first leg champion, pulled off a 6-1, 7-5 win over compatriot Seojin Park.
I n the boys singles category, No. 6 Miguel Iglupas lost to No. 2 Lin Hao-Yu, 0-6, 3-6, in the International Tennis Federation J60 event
supported by official ball Technifibre. Hao-Yu will face No. 7 and Koki Nara of Japan, who won over No. 4 Luke Koh of Singapore, 7-6, 1-0 (ret.). Top seed Jay Lin Gibson of Canada survived unseeded Japanese Yoshito Oda, 6-7, (8), 7-6 (6), 7-6 (4), to forge a semifinal showdown with Fu Wang Choi of Hong Kong, a 6-4, 6-2 winner over Luke Jie Xi Ho of Singapore. Madis is seeking a sixth singles title this year. Her other victories were at the J30 PHINMA Week 1 and 2 in Makati City in July and J60 events in Colombo (Sri Lanka) in September, Nonthaburi (Thailand) in October and Changhua City Chinese Taipei (November). She also has three doubles titles with Aludo. Madis and Aludo are both training at the Philippine Tennis Academy under Southeast Asian Games medalist and former Davis Cupper Bobbie Angelo.
By Brian Mahoney The Associated Press
MANNY PACQUIAO, who won titles in a record eight weight classes from flyweight to super welterweight while becoming one of boxing’s biggest draws, was elected Thursday to the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
Pacquiao, who fought in some of the blockbuster bouts of the 2000s before returning home to the Philippines to serve in its government, will be enshrined June 8 as the headline name in the 2025 class.
Vinny Paz, who overcame a broken neck sustained in a car crash to resume his career, and two-division champion Michael Nunn were the other fighters elected from the men’s modern category.
I n all, 14 people were selected for the museum in Canastota, New York, through voting by members of the Boxing Writers Association of America and a panel of international boxing historians.
Pacquiao was an easy choice in his first year of eligibility after compiling a 62-8-2 record with 39 knockouts during a pro career that began in 1995 and lasted until 2021.
world,” Pacquiao said. “Today, I am humbled knowing that in June, I will receive boxing’s highest honor, joining our national hero, Flash Elorde, as well as my trainer and friend Freddie Roach.”
A 106-pounder when he debuted, Pacquiao rose all the way to win a title at the 154-pound limit, yet never lost his speed as he put on more pounds and overwhelmed naturally bigger fighters with a dizzying flurry of power punches.
Th at led to wins over Mexican rivals such as Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales, along with Miguel Cotto and Shane Mosley. He ended Hall of Famer Oscar De La Hoya’s career with an eightround pummeling in 2008, one of three years in which he was voted “Fighter of the Year” by the BBWA, which also voted him “Boxer of the Decade” for 2000-09. I opened my gym, Wild Card Boxing Club, in hopes that the next Muhammad Ali would walk through the door. Little did I know that in 2001, my Muhammad Ali would weigh 122 pounds,” said Roach, who was still training Pacquiao when he was enshrined in 2012.
Hallasgo, Salaño rule nationals, clinch slots to Sydney Marathon
CHallasgo outclassed her fiercest competitors to retain the crown she won first in 2020 with a clocking of two hours, 59 minutes and 29 seconds.
Christmas gift. Throughout my career,
As his collection of world championship belts grew, so did his presence in boxing and the world. Today’s announcement that Manny will be a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame’s class of 2025 makes me incredibly proud. As much as I loved working together with Manny all those years, I’m even happier sharing the same
Capistrano honored as
‘godfather’
in Siklab awards
By Josef Ramos
Bacolod’s Tay Tung girls stamp mark in high school volley meet
ACOLOD Tay Tung reasserted its status as one of the best high school girls’ volleyball team in the country after retaining the Rebisco Volleyball League (RVL) national championship with a 25-16, 25-20, 25-13 victory over the University of Batangas in the title game recently.
YCapistrano said after accepting the “Godfather of the Year” award in the Nickel Asia Corp. fourth Siklab Awards on Thursday night at the Market! Market! Ayala Malls BGC in Taguig City.
“ It’s truly an honor to
congratulated all the athlete awardees in the gala organized by the Philippine Olympic CommitteePhilippine Sports Commission-Philippine Paralympic Committee Media Group. C apistrano was joined by Olympic medalist Nesthy Petecio, who was named Sports Idol of the Year, Rep. Arjo Atayde
A rtjoy Torregosa of Agusan del Norte clocked 3:00:28 and Maricar Camacho timed 3:08:21 to finish second and third, respectively. Salaño, meanwhile, clinched his first Milo Marathon King title with a time of 2:26:29, beating top bet Sonny Wagdos, who was in the lead of the race but finished fourth with a still impressive time of 2:29:39. SEA Games gold medalist Arlan Arbois Jr. landed second place in 2:26:38, while General Santos City’s Eduard Flores placed third in 2:27:34. Christine and Richard have shown what true champions are made of,” head of Milo Sports Carlo Sampan said. “Their sheer grit, unyielding discipline and remarkable perseverance exemplify the values that Milo stands for.”
C amila Bartolome and Donna de Leon scored 14 points apiece, while Rhose Almendralejo added 10 points to lead the way for the Thunderbolts in the final played at the Gameville Ball Park in Mandaluyong City.
“ We are thrilled to be part of their journey as they step onto the global stage at the 2025 Sydney Marathon,” he said. “They have proven that determination and passion can take anyone to greater heights.”
A nn Shairinie Pesigan paced University of Batangas with nine points. University of San Jose-Recoletos took home the bronze medal in the under-19 tournament after holding off Kings’ Montessori School, 26-24, 25-23, 25-20, behind Angel Mae Almonia’s 13 points.
De La Salle University. “We have to support them to sustain the glory and success in years to come.”
C apistrano, president of Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association, expressed his gratitude to all young athletes who are dreaming to be the next Olympic champions Hidilyn Diaz and Carlos
TOP seed Tenielle Madis makes a doublebackhand return.
MEMBERS of the Bacolod Tay Tung team strike a championship pose.
THE young awardees with Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go and Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann and commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo.
South Korea’s governing party calls for suspension of President Yoon’s power amid impeachment push
By Hyung-Jin Kim & Kim Tong-Hyung
The Associated Press
SEOUL, South Korea—South Korea’s governing party chief expressed support Friday for suspending the constitutional powers of President Yoon Suk Yeol for imposing martial law this week, in a bombshell reversal that makes Yoon’s impeachment more likely.
Opposition parties are pushing for a parliamentary vote on Yoon’s impeachment on Saturday, calling his short-lived martial law declaration an “unconstitutional, illegal rebellion or coup.”
But they need support from some members of the president’s People Power Party to get the twothirds majority required to pass the impeachment motion.
The turmoil resulting from Yoon’s nighttime martial law decree has frozen South Korean politics and caused worry among neighbors, including fellow democracy Japan, and Seoul’s top ally, the United States, as one of the strongest democracies in Asia faces a political crisis that could unseat its leader.
ister Han Duck-soo, the country’s No. 2 official, would take over presidential responsibilities.
The Defense Ministry said it suspended from duty the defense counter intelligence commander, Yeo In-hyung, who Han alleged had received orders from Yoon to detain the politicians. The ministry also suspended Lee Jin-woo, commander of the capital defense command, and Kwak Jong-geun, commander of the special warfare command, over their involvement in enforcing martial law.
bly forced Yoon’s Cabinet to lift it before daybreak Wednesday.
Han said he had received intelligence that Yoon had ordered the country’s defense counterintelligence commander to arrest and detain unspecified key politicians based on accusations of “anti-state activities” during the brief period martial law was in force.
“It’s my judgment that an immediate suspension of President Yoon Suk Yeol’s official duties is necessary to protect the Republic of Korea and its people,” Han said.
Impeaching Yoon would require support from 200 of the National Assembly’s 300 members. The opposition parties who jointly brought the impeachment motion have 192 seats combined. PPP has 108 lawmakers.
If Yoon is impeached, he would be suspended until the Constitutional Court rules on whether to remove him from office or restore his presidential power. Prime Min -
During a party meeting, PPP leader Han Dong-hun stressed the need to suspend Yoon’s presidential duties and power swiftly, saying he poses a “significant risk of extreme actions, like reattempting to impose martial law, which could potentially put the Republic of Korea and its citizens in great danger.”
In a closed-door briefing to lawmakers, Hong Jang-won, first deputy director of South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, said Yoon called after imposing martial law and ordered him to help the defense counterintelligence unit to detain key politicians. The targeted politicians included Han, opposition leader Lee Jae-myung and National Assembly speaker Woo Won Shik, said Kim Byungkee, one of the lawmakers who attended the meeting. Kim said Hong told lawmakers he ignored Yoon’s orders.
The spy agency’s director, Cho Taeyong, questioned Hong’s account. Cho told reporters that such an order would have come to him, rather than Hong, and that he never received any orders from Yoon to detain politicians.
Han earlier said he would work to defeat the impeachment motion even though he criticized Yoon’s martial law declaration as “unconstitutional.” Han said there was a need to “prevent damage to citizens and supporters caused by unprepared chaos.”
Thousands of protesters have marched in the streets of Seoul
since Wednesday, calling for Yoon to resign and be investigated. Thousands of autoworkers and other members of the Korean Metal Workers’ Union, one of the country’s biggest umbrella labor groups, have started hourly strikes since Thursday to protest Yoon. The union said its members will start on indefinite strikes beginning on Dec. 11 if Yoon was still in office then.
South Korean Vice Defense Minister Kim Seon Ho promised the ministry’s “active cooperation” with an investigation by prosecutors into the military’s role in Yoon’s martial law enforcement. He said military prosecutors will also be involved in the investigation. He denied media speculation that Yoon and his military confidantes might consider imposing martial law a second time.
“Even if there’s a demand to enforce martial law, the Ministry of Defense and the Joint Chiefs
of Staff will absolutely not accept it,” Kim said.
Kim became the acting defense minister after Yoon’s office on Thursday accepted the resignation of Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun, who has also been banned from traveling while he is investigated over the imposition of martial law.
Opposition parties and Han allege that it was Kim Yong Hyun who recommended that Yoon take the step. During a parliamentary hearing on Thursday, Kim Seon Ho said Kim Yong Hyun also ordered troops to be deployed to the National Assembly after Yoon imposed martial law.
Han leads a minority faction within the ruling party, and 18 lawmakers in his faction voted with opposition lawmakers to overturn Yoon’s martial law decree. Martial law ultimately lasted about six hours, after the quick overrule by the National Assem -
The main liberal opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jaemyung said in a televised speech Friday that it was crucial to suspend Yoon as “quickly as possible.” Lee said Yoon’s martial law enforcement amounted to “rebellion and also a self-coup.” He said Yoon’s move caused serious damage to the country’s image and paralyzed foreign policy, pointing to criticism from the Biden administration and foreign leaders canceling their visits to South Korea. Yoon has made no immediate response to Han’s comments. He hasn’t made public appearances since he made a televised announcement that his martial law decree was lifted.
Prosecutor General Shim Woo Jung told reporters the prosecution plans to investigate rebellion charges against Yoon following complaints filed by the opposition. While the president mostly has immunity from prosecution while in office, the protection does not extend to allegations of rebellion or treason. It wasn’t immediately clear how the prosecution plans to proceed with an investigation on Yoon.
The Democratic Party is also considering filing a complaint against PPP floor leader Choo Kyung-ho, whom they accuse of attempting to facilitate Yoon’s martial law enforcement.
Choo, a Yoon loyalist, had asked party lawmakers to convene at the party’s headquarters rather than the National Assembly after martial law began. That meant fewer lawmakers were present for parliament’s vote on lifting martial law.
Syrian insurgents capture Hama City in severe setback to President Assad
By Bassem Mroue & Kareem Chehayeb
BThe Associated Press
EIRUT—Syrian insurgents swept into the central city of Hama on Thursday and government forces withdrew, dealing another major blow to Syrian President Bashar Assad days after insurgents captured much of Aleppo, the country’s largest city. The stunning weeklong offensive appeared likely to continue, with insurgents setting their sights on Homs, the country’s third-largest city. Homs, which is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of Hama, is the gate to the capital, Damascus, Assad’s seat of power and the coastal region that is a base of support for him.
The offensive is being led by the jihadi group HTS and an umbrella group of Turkish-backed Syrian militias called the Syrian National Army. Their sudden capture of Aleppo, an ancient business hub in the north, was a stunning prize for Assad’s opponents and reignited the Syrian civil war that had been largely a stalemate for the past few years.
Hama is one of the few cities that has remained mostly under government control in the conflict, which broke out in March 2011 following a popular uprising. By sunset, dozens of jubilant fighters were seen shooting in the air in celebration in live footage from Hama’s Assi Square. The square was the scene of massive anti-government protests in the early days of the uprising in 2011, before security forces stormed it and got the city under control.
The Syrian army on Thursday said it redeployed from Hama and took positions outside the city to protect civilians.
Abu Mohammed al-Golani, the de facto leader of the Syrian insurgency, announced in a video message that fighters had reached Hama in a “conquering that is not vengeful, but one of mercy and compassion.”
Al-Golani is the leader of the most powerful insurgent group in Syria, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which previously served as alQaida’s branch in Syria and is considered a terrorist group by the United Nations as well as countries including the US. The group that was known as the Nusra Front in the early years of Syria’s conflict changed its name and said in recent years that it cut ties with al-Qaida.
Al-Golani publicly toured Aleppo on Wednesday and spoke about Hama on Thursday from an undisclosed location in what appeared to be a video filmed with a mobile phone.
“This is a massive win for the rebels and a strategic blow for the (Syrian) regime,” Dareen Khalifa, a senior adviser with the International Crisis Group and an expert on Syrian groups. She said the question is whether the opposition will be able to reach Homs and take over the area, which she said would be a game-changer.
“I think then we are going to have to pause and consider whether or not this regime can actually survive this war,” she added.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose country supports
the opposition fighters, reiterated during a telephone call with the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres that the Syrian government should urgently engage with its people “for a comprehensive political solution.”
Guterres said in a statement later that after 14 years of war in Syria, “it is high time” for all parties to engage seriously in
talks to resolve the conflict in line with Security Council Resolution 2254.”
That resolution, which was adopted unanimously in December 2015, endorsed a road map to peace in Syria. The measure called for a Syrian-led political process, starting with the establishment of a transitional governing body, followed by the drafting of a new
constitution and ending with UNsupervised elections.
The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights—an opposition war monitor—said after fierce battles inside Hama, opposition gunmen now control the police headquarters in the city as well as the sprawling air base and the central prison from where hundreds of detainees
were set free.
“The process leading to the fall of the regime has started,” the Observatory’s chief, Rami Abdurrahman, told The Associated Press. Aleppo’s takeover marked the first opposition attack on the city since 2016, when a brutal Russian air campaign retook it for Assad after rebel forces had initially seized it. Military intervention by Russia, Iran and Iranian-allied Hezbollah, and other militant groups has allowed Assad to remain in power.
The latest flare-up in Syria’s long civil war comes as Assad’s main regional and international backers, Russia and Iran, are preoccupied with their own wars in Gaza, Lebanon and Ukraine. This time, there appeared to be little to no help from his allies. Tens of thousands of people have been displaced by the renewed fighting, which began with the surprise opposition offensive November 27.
The Associated Press writers Albert Aji in Damascus, Syria; Sarah El Deeb in Beirut; Suzan Faser in Ankara, Turkey; and Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations contributed to this report.
Dong-hun, right, speaks during a press conference at the National Assembly in Seoul, South Korea on Friday, December 6, 2024.
INTERNALLY displaced people erect tents in a camp in Tabqa city, Raqqa governorate, northern Syria, on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. Thousands of Kurdish families displaced from Aleppo and Tel Rifaat have ended up in temporary shelters and on the streets in Kurdish-controlled areas of Tabqa city. AP/HOGIR EL ABDO
Tensions rise at OSCE meeting as Lavrov and Blinken clash over Ukraine conflict
VALLETTA, Malta—Russian
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov clashed Thursday indirectly with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken at an annual security meeting, accusing the West of risking escalation over Ukraine but walking out before Blinken and other speakers could respond.
Speaking at the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe ministerial meeting in Malta, Lavrov accused the West of reviving the Cold War and provoking a direct conflict with Russia.
He said the US actions were driven by a desire to “return NATO to the political spotlight.”
“After the Afghan disgrace, there was a need for a new common enemy,” Lavrov said during his first stop in an EU nation since Russia’s
full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
“The result is the reincarnation of the Cold War, but now with the far greater risk of its escalation into the hot phase.”
Blinken, who spoke after Lavrov left the room, put the blame for escalation in the region back on Russia, noting that the Russian foreign minister, the fourth speaker, did not stick around to listen to other speakers.
Critically ill Gaza children denied
Wafaa
Shurafa & Fatma Khaled
The Associated Press
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza
Strip—The 12-year-old Palestinian boy was lying in a hospital bed in central Gaza, wracked with leukemia, malnourished and whimpering in pain despite the morphine doctors were giving him, when Rosalia Bollen, a UNICEF official, said she saw him in late October.
Islam al-Rayahen’s family had asked Israeli authorities six times over the past months for permission to evacuate him from Gaza for a desperately needed stem cell transplant, Bollen said. Six times, the request was refused for unexplained security reasons, she said.
Islam died three days after she saw him, Bollen said.
Thousands of patients in Gaza are waiting for Israeli permission for urgently needed medical evacuation from Gaza for treatment of war wounds or chronic diseases they can’t get after the destruction of much of the territory’s health care system by Israel’s 15-month military campaign.
Among them are at least 2,500 children who UNICEF says must be transported immediately.
“They cannot afford to wait. These children will die. They’re dying in waiting and I find it striking that the world is letting that happen,” Bollen said.
The Israeli military often takes months to respond to medical evacuation requests, and the number of evacuations has plunged in recent months. In some cases, the military rejects either the patient or, in the case of children, the caregivers accompanying them on vague security grounds or with no explanation.
The Israeli decisions appear to be “arbitrary and are not made on a criteria nor logic,” said Moeen Mahmood, the Jordan country director for Doctors Without Borders.
COGAT, the Israeli military agency in charge of humanitarian affairs for Palestinians, said in a statement to The Associated Press that it “makes every effort to approve the departure
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends a plenary session of the 31st Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Ministerial summit, in Ta’Qali, Malta on Thursday, December 5, 2024. ALBERTO PIZZOLI/POOL VIA AP
“Let’s talk about escalation,’’ Blinken said, citing the deployment of North Korean forces in Europe, the use of an intermediate-range ballistic missile to attack Ukraine, Russia’s move to lower the threshold for the use of nuclear weapons, and attacks on
lifesaving
of children and their families for medical treatments, subject to a security check.” It did not respond when asked for details about Islam’s case.
A military official said Israel’s internal intelligence service reviews whether the patient or their escort have what he called “a connection to terrorism,” and if one is found they are refused. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss confidential procedures.
Osaid Shaheen, who is nearly 2, now faces having his eyes removed after Israel rejected his evacuation for treatment of cancer in his retinas.
The toddler was diagnosed with the cancer in April, after his mother, Sondos Abu Libda, noticed his left eyelid was droopy. The World Health Organization requested his evacuation through the Rafah border crossing in southern Gaza, but the crossing was shut down in May when Israeli troops took it over in an offensive, Abu Libda said.
WHO applied again, this time for Osaid to leave through the Kerem Shalom crossing into Israel, now the only route for evacuees to travel. During the long wait, the cancer spread to the child’s other eye and reached stage 4. In November, Abu Libda was told Osaid was rejected on security grounds with no further explanation.
She was stunned, she said. “I didn’t expect that a child could get a security rejection.”
Doctors have given the boy three doses of chemotherapy. But with supplies short in Gaza, they’re struggling to get more. If they can’t, they will have to remove Osaid’s eyes or the cancer will spread to other parts of his body, Abu Libda said.
“He’s just a child. How will he live his life without seeing? How will he play? How will he see his future and how will his life turn out?” Abu Libda asked, standing outside the house where her family is sheltering in the Beni Suheil district of southern Gaza.
Nearby, little Osaid—who so far still has his sight—toddled around in the rubble of a build -
Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
“Mr. Lavrov spoke about the sovereign right of every memberstate to make their own choices,’’ Blinken said. “That’s exactly what this is about: the sovereign right of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people to make their own choices
medical care by Israel
ing destroyed by Israeli forces, smiling as he played with chunks of rubble. When asked about his case, COGAT did not reply.
WHO says 14,000 patients of all ages need medical evacuation from Gaza, the territory’s Health Ministry puts the number higher, at 22,000, including 7,000 patients in extreme need who could die soon without treatment, according to Mohamed Abu Salmeya, a ministry official in charge of evacuation referrals.
Since the war began on October 7, 2023, 5,230 patients have been evacuated, said Margaret Harris, a WHO spokesperson.
Since May, when the Rafah crossing shut down, the rate has slowed down, with only 342 patients evacuated, she said, an average of less than two a day. Before the war, when Israeli permission was also necessary, around 100 patients a day were transferred out of Gaza, according to WHO.
More than 44,500 Palestinians have been killed and more than 105,000 wounded by Israel’s bombardment and ground offensives, launched in retaliation for Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel. The casualty toll, by Gaza’s Health Ministry, does not distinguish combatants from civilians—but more than half are women and children.
Gaza’s health system has been decimated, with only 17 of the territory’s original 36 hospitals functioning—and those only partially. They struggle with the waves of war wounded on top of patients
with other conditions.
Carrying out specialized surgeries or treatments in Gaza is difficult or impossible, with equipment destroyed, some specialist doctors killed or arrested and medical supplies limited. Gaza’s only dedicated cancer hospital was seized by Israeli troops early in the war, heavily damaged and has been shut down.
Doctors without Borders said in August, it sought to evacuate 32 children along with their caregivers, but only six were allowed to leave. In November, it applied for eight others, including a 2-yearold with leg amputations, but Israeli authorities blocked evacuation, it said
The military official said five of the eight requests in November were approved but the caregivers trying to travel with the children were rejected on security grounds. The official said Doctors Without Borders would have to resubmit the requests with alternate escorts. The official didn’t say why the other three children weren’t approved.
The rejected caregivers were the children’s mothers and grandmothers, said Mahmood, the Doctor’s Without Borders official, who said no explanation was given for the security concern.
Children long waiting for permission face dire consequences if they don’t get treatment.
Khaled reported from Cairo. Associated Press writer Julia Frankel in Jerusalem contributed to this report.
about the future, not to have those choices made in and by Moscow.”
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, who was the first to address the panel, walked out as Lavrov took the podium, along with the foreign ministers of Poland and Estonia.
Before leaving the podium, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, called his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov a “war criminal.”
“Ukraine continues to fight for its right to exist. And the Russian war criminal at this table (Lavrov) should know this: Ukraine will succeed and justice will prevail.”
The visit marked Lavrov’s first visit to an EU member nation since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. It has been relatively rare for Lavrov to attend forums involving senior Western officials, although he recently took part in the United Nations General Assembly and the G20 summit in Brazil.
The Maltese foreign affairs office said that three OSCE member countries had objected to extending the visa to Zakharova, who is under a travel ban. Lavrov is subject to EU sanctions, but faces no travel ban. Lavrov attended the event last year in Skopje, North Macedonia, but Poland denied him a visa the previous year in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Blinken traveled to Malta from Brussels, where he attended what was likely to be his last NATO meeting of the outgoing Biden administration. Ukraine’s foreign minister was also attending, after Ukraine boycotted last year over Lavrov’s attendance.
Reporters Without Borders called on the OSCE to release 38 journalists detained by Russia, including 19 Ukrainians arrested in illegally occupied territories. It said in a statement that Russia is the world’s fifth-largest jailer of journalists. AP
Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said on her message app that Malta had annulled her visa to accompany Lavrov.
7.0 magnitude earthquake rocks Northern California, triggering brief tsunami warning
By Olga R. Rodriguez & Stefanie Dazio
The Associated Press
SAN FRANCISCO—A 7.0 magnitude earthquake shook a large area of Northern California on Thursday, knocking items off grocery store shelves, sending children scrambling under desks and prompting a brief tsunami warning for 5.3 million people along the US West Coast.
The quake struck at 10:44 a.m. west of Ferndale, a small city in coastal Humboldt County, about 130 miles (209 km) from the Oregon border, the US Geological Survey said. It was felt as far south as San Francisco, some 270 miles (435 km) away, where residents described a rolling motion for several seconds. It was followed by multiple smaller aftershocks.
There were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries from the quake, which was the most powerful temblor to hit California since a magnitude 7.1 quake hit Ridgecrest in 2019.
The tsunami warning was in effect for roughly an hour. Issued shortly after Thursday’s quake struck, it covered nearly 500 miles (805 km) of coastline, from the edge of California’s Monterey Bay north into Oregon.
“It was a strong quake. Our building shook. We’re fine, but I have a mess to clean up right now,” said Julie Kreitzer, owner of Golden Gait Mercantile, a store packed with food, wares and souvenirs that is a main attraction in Ferndale.
“I have to go. I have to try and salvage something for the holidays because it’s going to be a tough year,” Kreitzer said before hanging up.
The region—known for its redwood forests, scenic mountains and the threecounty Emerald Triangle’s legendary marijuana crop—was struck by a magnitude 6.4 quake in 2022 that left thousands of people without power and water. The northwest corner of California is the most seismically active part of the state because it’s where three tectonic plates meet, seismologist Lucy Jones said on the social media platform BlueSky.
Shortly after the quake, phones in Northern California buzzed with the tsunami warning from the National Weather Service that said: “A series of powerful waves and strong currents may impact coasts near you. You are in danger. Get away from coastal waters. Move to high ground or inland now. Keep away from the coast until local officials say it is safe to return.”
Numerous cities urged people to evacuate to higher ground as a precaution.
In Santa Cruz, authorities cleared the main beach, taping off entrances with police tape. Aerial footage showed cars bumperto-bumper heading to higher ground on California highways 1 and 92 in the Half Moon Bay area south of San Francisco.
“I thought my axles had fallen apart,” said Valerie Starkey, a Del Norte County supervisor representing Crescent City, a town of fewer than 6,000 near the Oregon border. “That’s what was feeling...‘My axles are broken now.’ I did not realize it was an earthquake.”
Cindy Vosburg, the executive director for the Crescent City-Del Norte County Chamber of Commerce, said she heard alarms sound just before shaking began, and the city’s cultural center downtown started to creak.
“Just as it would start to subside, the building would roll again,” Vosburg said. White House spokesperson Jeremy Edwards said President Joe Biden was briefed on the earthquake and that FEMA officials are in touch with their state and local counterparts in California and Oregon. Gov. Gavin Newsom said he has signed off on a state of emergency declaration to quickly move state resources to impacted areas along the coast. State officials were concerned about damages in the northern part of the state, Newsom said. Crews in Eureka, the biggest city in the region, were assessing if there was any damage. Eureka Mayor Kim Bergel, who works at a middle school, said lights were swaying and everyone got under desks.
“The kids were so great and terrified. It seemed to go back and forth for quite a long time,” she said. Some children asked, “Can I call my mom?”
The students were later sent home.
In nearby Arcata, students and faculty were urged to shelter in place at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt. Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal said residents experienced cracks in their homes’ foundations, as well as broken glass and windows, but nothing severe. Honsal said he was in his office in the 75-year-old courthouse in downtown Eureka when he felt the quake.
“We’re used to it. It is known as ‘earthquake country’ up here,” he said. “It wasn’t a sharp jolt. It was a slow roller, but significant.”
Dazio reported from Los Angeles. Associated Press writers Christopher Weber, Jaimie Ding and Dorany Pineda in Los Angeles; Martha Mendoza in Santa Cruz, California; Sophie Austin and Tran Nguyen in Sacramento, California; and Seth Borenstein in Washington, D.C., contributed to this report.
in Deir al-Ballah, Gaza Strip on November 16, 2024. Nima al-Askari said she was told by doctors that her son could
Brief Job Description: Reviews, inspects, and documents all construction projects during the construction period of the current Bond Program.
Basic Qualification: Skilled in identifying local construction technologies and construction material sources. Able to carry out and monitor testing and inspection of products and materials to ensure the finished product meets quality standards.
11.
12. XUAN, WENGUANG Marketing Manager
Brief
13.
14.
15. CHENG, WEI Operation Manager
Brief
16. CUI, CHUNLONG Operation Manager
Brief Job Description: The Operation Manager will be responsible for overseeing and managing day to day operation of the company.
17. CUI, YONG Operation Manager
Brief Job Description: The Operation Manager will be responsible for overseeing and managing day to day operation of the company. Basic
18. PIAO, GUANGHU Operation Manager
Brief Job Description: The Operation Manager will be responsible for overseeing and managing day to day operation of the company.
C’EST LA VIE EVENT MANAGEMENT INC. 230, Narra Street, Marikina Heights, City Of Marikina
19. JASWINDER KAUR Field
57.
58. DENG, CHENGLIAN Sr. Account Manager
Brief
59. LIN, ZEWEN Sr. Account Manager
Brief Job Description: Prepare campaign insights reporting, including analysis and research.
60. XU, FANGZHOU Sr. Account Manager
Brief Job Description: Prepare campaign insights reporting,
EFS DOCUMENTATION SERVICES INC. Unit 1102-b 11/f Aic Center, Escolta St., Barangay 291, Binondo, City Of Manila
61. DHILLON, HARJINDER SINGH Indian Marketer For Virtual
Brief Job Description: Conduct
62. ROHIT KUMAR Indian Marketer For Virtual Brief Job
63. SARBJIT KAUR Indian Marketer For Virtual
64.
65.
66. CHARANJIT SINGH Chief Marketing Officer
Brief
GURSEVAK SINGH Consultant
67.
Brief Job Description: Responsible to conduct situational and data analysis to identify and understand a problem or issue. Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in any related field. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
68. HARWINDER SINGH Consultant
Brief Job Description: Responsible to conduct situational and data analysis to identify and understand a problem or issue.
69. HARPREET KAUR Financial Service Consultant
Brief Job Description: Responsible for providing financial advice and guidance to clients on investment products, trading strategies and wealth management solutions.
70. CHARANJIT SINGH Marketing Executive
Brief
- Php 59,999
Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in any related field. Excellent communication
106.
108.
Brief
109. CHEN, FAN Mandarin Site
Brief
110.
Brief
Description: Promote service and products for the global marking customers of City of Dreams Manila.
Basic Qualification: College grad. & above preferred, previous work experience in gaming marketing/gaming industry and proficient in a foreign language (Bahasa Indonesia, Korean, Nihongo, Mandarin & Cantonese) is
