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Global harm reduction champs say PHL is in right direction to control rampant smoking

On track to last puff W

By Roderick L. Abad

egorizing the island nation among aff luent countries with abundant resources to promote safer nicotine products for their population. “ The United Kingdom, the United States of America, of course, the Philippines and so many other countries are leading the way in understanding and recognizing that there are safer alternatives to tobacco smoking, which is killing people all over the world. Critics tr y to make some kind of a misconception that these are more harmful, when in the contrar y, they are up to 85 percent safer than conventional cigarettes,” he cited.

Contributor

HILE some highly developed and small nations have already controlled smoking prevalence in their countries, emerging economies like the Philippines are on the right track to achieve this goal, according to advocates of Global Tobacco Harm Reduction.

Vaporized nicotine products or electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are considered a better alternative to quick smoking. Since withdrawal of such a bad vice is kind of hard, however, these innovative replacements to have the last puff were initially not well received internationally.

Martin Culliip, a former chairman of The New Nicotine Alliance, cited, for instance, the United Kingdom government that tried to ban vaping for 20 days in 2010.

“It was the consumers who [called to] stop doing that. Since then, they’ve seen the benefits of harm reduction, and the government’s whole tobacco control policy centers around vaping,” he told reporters during the recent sixth edition of the Asia Harm Reduction Forum (AHRF) in Manila.

The same holds true for Latin American countries where these substitutes to cigarette are found to be effective in the prevention of widespread smoking. In fact, more than 110 entities related to research, ministries of health, and governments have declared that these products are vastly safer than combustible tobacco, per social media and marketing expert Jeffrey Zamora.

“So that means that there’s a huge potential for public health benefits,” he said, while referring to First World economies that are quite successful in kicking their cigarette butts.

“Countries like the UK, New Zealand, France and Sweden are almost smoke-free with just 5.5 percent to 6 percent prevalence of tobacco smoking. So they’re approaching already the goal of a smoke-free country that is less than 5 percent that is set by the WHO [World Health Organization].”

Call for change

Heading in the right direction

FOLLOWING the footsteps of these economic giants is the Philippines, which saw the enactment last year of the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, or Republic Act (R A) 11900.

Commonly referred to as the Vape Law, it includes provisions mandating the registration of vaporized nicotine products with the Department of Trade and Industry before their public sale, importation, or manufacture. It also prohibits the public sale or distribution of items that do not adhere to the tax and registration requirements set by the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

R A 11900 was enacted to protect not only the health of the consumers but also that of the burgeoning vape sector. A study from Statista shows the e-cigarette segment in the Philippines is projected to grow by 2.42 percent from 2023 to 2027, resulting in a market volume of around $265 million in the next four years.

The industry is on track to achieve this given the strong

SPEAKERS and advocates participating in the sixth edition of the Asia Harm Reduction Forum (AHRF) at the Prince Hotel Manila proudly display their signed manifesto, symbolizing their dedication to advancing ARHF’s mission of global health awareness, death prevention through research, public health, and harm reduction policy. Pictured from left to right: Jeffrey Zamora, a social media and marketing expert; Suely Castro, an advocate from Knowledge Action Change; Jay Jazul, assistant professor at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and resident researcher at the UST Research Center for Social Sciences and Education; Dr. Rohan Andrade De Sequeira, a distinguished consultant cardio-metabolic physician; and Martin Culliip, a former chairman of The New Nicotine Alliance.

market demand. Based on the Global Adult Tobacco Survey in the Philippines a couple of years ago, the current users of e-cigarettes increased from 0.8 percent in 2015 to 2.1 percent in 2021.

“We believe that the regulatory framework is still a key for a balance on the relationship between the government and the industry. We have to follow product standards or quality control parameters in order to ensure the safety of electronic cigarettes and electronic heated tobacco products,” underscored Dr. Pacifico Calderon, a Bayanihan awardee at the Australia Alumni Excellence Awards 2022 for his leadership and contributions during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Commending the Philippines for the groundbreaking Vape law, Zamora praised the country’s initiative to prioritize the well-being of people and ensure accessibility to harm reduction products. He expressed, “In that way, we can change things because there’s a billion lives at stake at this present time.”

Sharing the same sentiment with him was Suely Castro, an advocate from Knowledge Action Change, who said, “It’s really refreshing to know that the Philippines is going in the right direction.”

The champion of harm reduction made the remark because whenever she toured around the world to spread awareness on their cause, she only had use cases in the above-

cited nations to share. But in Latin American and African countries that are mostly lowand middle-income, she observed that they like to see and match themselves with those that have the same level of political and economic development as theirs.

“It’s much closer or easier for them to compare themselves with countries like the Philippines [because] if the Philippines can do [it], they can also do right,” she pointed out. “It shows them that it’s just not a matter of having money. If there’s a will, there’s a way for the world.”

Dr. Rohan Andrade De Sequeira, a renowned consultant and cardio-metabolic physician, concurred with him, cat-

RECOGNIZING that the majority of individuals using vaping products, nicotine pouches, or heated tobacco are former smokers, Culliip is actively working to convert more people to these alternatives.

“We advocate for the use of these products, which users have found to have improved their lives. We want to kind of preach that to other people who haven’t yet switched to safer nicotine products,” he said.

The former head of an educational charity in the UK, though, warned oppositionists who establish all sorts of roadblocks to harm reduction by aiming to “redefine smoke to include vapor from vaping products and heated tobacco and, at the same time, put more restrictions on safer nicotine usage.”

He recently raised this to government delegations from across the globe that were gathered in Panama City from November 20 to 25 to discuss tobacco and nicotine policy at the 10th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

“We call on all the delegates to consider the impact of what they are deciding. Basically, what they want to propose to the closed-door meeting is to eradicate all safer nicotine products,” Cullip stressed.

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 55.3190 n JAPAN 0.3755 n UK 69.4862 n HK 7.0821 n CHINA 7.7282 n SINGAPORE 41.2275 n AUSTRALIA 36.2284 n EU 59.5564 n KOREA 0.0420 n SAUDI ARABIA 14.7494 Source: BSP (December 8, 2023)

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Under Putin, the uber-wealthy Russians known as ‘oligarchs’ are still rich but far less powerful

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By Jim Heintz The Associated Press

ALLINN, Estonia—When Vladimir Putin came to power in 2000, the outside world viewed those Russians known as “oligarchs” as men whose vast wealth, ruthlessly amassed, made them almost shadow rulers. A “government of the few,” in the word’s etymology.

The term has persisted well into Putin’s rule, broadening in popular usage to refer to almost any Russian with a substantial fortune.

How much political power any of Russia’s uber-rich now wield, however, is doubtful.

A few hours after Putin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, a televised meeting he held in the Kremlin with top industrialists and entrepreneurs showed how the dynamics had changed: Putin simply told them he had no choice but to invade.

Despite the harsh consequences to their wealth that the tycoons could expect from the war, they had to accept it; the power was his, not theirs.

The original oligarchs

AFTER the collapse of the Soviet Union, astute businessmen who had already begun building operations as government controls loosened under Mikhail Gorbachev’s perestroika reform policies took advantage of the privatizing of state industries to quickly establish vast holdings.

Fast-talking mathematician Boris Berezovsky epitomized the breed, becoming the largest dealer for Russia’s largest automaker and managing to buy the vehicles at a loss to the manufacturer. He took over the management of the Sibneft oil company, the national airline Aeroflot and gained control of Russia’s biggest TV channel, then known as ORT.

BORIS BEREZOVSKY AP/ALASTAIR GRANT

VLADIMIR GUSINSKY AP/DENIS DOYLE

MIKHAIL KHODORKOVSKY AP/MATT DUNHAM

ROMAN ABRAMOVICH AP/LEFTERIS PITARAKIS

Somewhat less-colorful than Berezovsky but still prominent figures from the era included media mogul Vladimir Gusinsky, whose NTV channel made him highly influential, and oil tycoons Mikhail Khodorkovsky and Roman Abramovich.

Putin’s new deal

UPON taking office, Putin was well aware of the widespread resentment ordinary Russians felt for the ultra-wealthy who thrived while millions struggled through the economic changes.

In the summer of 2000, Putin met in the Kremlin with about two dozen of the men regarded as the top oligarchs. The meeting was closed, but reports later said he made them a sternly clear deal: Stay out of politics and your wealth won’t be touched.

“The guarantee … was that all the riches amassed before his presidency could be kept by their owners, and this has never changed,” Carnegie Endowment for International Peace analyst Alexandra Prokopenko wrote in a commentary this year. “Loyalty is what Putin values above all else.”

By then, Berezovsky had already begun criticizing Putin.

Within months, he left Russia for the United Kingdom and was granted asylum in 2003. Ten years later, he was found dead in his home; a disputed post-mortem examination said he appeared to have hanged himself.

Gusinsky, whose media holdings were critical of Putin and even satirized him, was hauled into jail amid an investigation of misappropriated funds; within weeks, he agreed to sell his holdings to an arm of Russia’s state natural gas monopoly, and he left the country.

Khodorkovsky, regarded as Russia’s richest man at the time, lasted longer, establishing the Open Society reformist group and showing increased political ambitions. But he was arrested in 2003 when special forces stormed onto his private plane and spent a decade in prison on convictions of tax evasion and embezzlement before Putin pardoned him and he left Russia.

Putin tolerated the 2012 presidential run against him by Mikhail Prokhorov, who made a fortune in metals, but the bid was widely seen as a Kremlin-supported red herring aimed at creating the impression of genuine political pluralism in Russia.

BROOKLYN Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov speaks during a news conference in New York, January 11, 2016. AP/SETH WENIG

OLEG TINKOV AP/SANG TAN

The oligarchs’ future

DESPITE the blows to their assets as a result of the Ukraine war, most of Russia’s ultra-wealthy have stayed quiet about the conflict or offered only mild, token criticism.

Banking and brewing entrepreneur Oleg Tinkov was a rare exception, denouncing the war and calling its supporters “morons.” He left the country in late 2022 and later renounced his citizenship.

Mikhail Fridman, a co-founder of Russia’s largest private bank, called the war a tragedy and for the “bloodshed” to end. He holds Israeli citizenship and had lived in Britain, but reportedly returned to Moscow after fighting between Israel and Hamas began.

“Even as the elites grumble, they continue to show loyalty,” Prokopenko wrote.

But she and other analysts sug-

gest that loyalty had not been enough for Putin and that he wants to create a new cadre of hugely wealthy figures who are beholden to him by distributing the assets that the state has seized from foreign companies exiting Russia and through invalidating the privatizations from the 1990s.

Analyst Nikolai Petrov of Britain’s Royal Institute of International Affairs wrote that Russia is engaged in deprivatization “intended to redistribute wealth to a new generation of less-powerful individuals and shore up the president’s own position.”

“A new group of quasi-owner state oligarchs is being created, with wealth and control redistributed from the ‘old nobles’ to the new,” he said.

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Sunday, December 10, 2023 A3

NUSTAR dazzles with resort-wide holiday delights and festivities

The NUSTAR Christmas tree at the casino lobby.

The FILI lobby

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USTAR Resort Cebu, an island of leisure and entertainment possibilities, is making everyone’s holiday experience an extra magical one with its enchanting array of holiday activities throughout the resort.

From gastronomic adventures to family-friendly activities, NUSTAR invites guests to partake in a wondrous Yuletide celebration.

From now until December 31, 2023, the Twinkling Tales with Mr. & Mrs. Claus will spark the holiday spirit in guests’ hearts. Join this delightful encounter on December 17, 25, and 31, from 2 pm to 3 pm.

Catch the heartwarming performances of a choral group scheduled for December 25 and January

1. The first set begins at 2 pm followed by another set at 3:30 pm.

Their heavenly harmony will create a memorable atmosphere for guests, filled with captivating tunes and timeless classics.

On December 24 and 31, bask in the soothing tunes of a remarkable guest quartet during their 2 pm

and 3:30 pm sets. Their intimate performance promises an entrancing experience that will resonate long after the final note.

Guests can witness the impossible unfold right before their eyes as a skilled magician performs astonishing tricks mere inches away in Magic among the Stars: A Closeup Magic Show on December 10, 13, 23, and 24. Watch the first act at 6 pm followed by an encore performance at 7:30 pm.

Capture the moment and create lasting memories with Shoot for the Stars: The Classic Photo Booth Experience, open until January 30, 2024, between 10 am and 11 pm Step inside the booth, strike poses, don props, and snap fun-filled pictures with friends and loved ones.

Join other guests for a handson gingerbread man experience

The facade of NUSTAR with a Christmas feel

The harpist serenading guests at the Christmas tree lighting event.

until January 1, 2024 at the Fili Hotel Lobby. From 3 pm to 5 pm on weekdays, and from 2 pm to 5 pm on weekends, guests can decorate their own gingerbread cookies and adorn these treats with colorful icing, candies, and sprinkles, creating sweet masterpieces that embody the festive spirit.

Families seeking an exceptional holiday retreat can opt for Fili Hotel’s Christmas and New Year packages, including the "Celestial Dreams," "A Stellar Christmas Family Retreat," "Starry Night and Holiday Delights," and "Counting Stars, Counting Blessings" packages, which offer guests exclusive perks and savings until January 4, 2024.

For the flavors of the season, head over to NUSTAR’s dining outlets, and savor each delectable course thoughtfully curated by culinary experts. From Fili Café’s lavish Christmas and New Year’s dinners to afternoon tea at the Fili Lobby Lounge, as well as the holiday set menus at Xin Tian Di, Il Primo, Mott 32, and Fina, every bite celebrates the magic of the holidays, best enjoyed in a luxe yet cozy setting.

Don’t miss the chance to toast to the season with Jay’s Spirits, NUSTAR’s holiday-inspired aperitifs, featuring a selection of craft cocktails that will get anyone in the holiday spirit. Guests can take their pick from the gin-based NUSTAR Fizz, the refreshing Santa’s Iced Tea, the rum-based Santa Goes White with a touch of tropical cheer, the creamy, ube-flavored Visayas Snow, and the vodka-based Rudolph’s Nose.

Share in the merriment of the season and find the perfect gifting option for loved ones at the Fili Lobby Lounge’s goodie counter.

Guests can also enjoy the convenience of NUSTAR’s holiday platters and hampers, brimming with delectable treats that cater to every palate. From tantalizing canapés and savory bites to festive mains and desserts by the dozen, NUSTAR’s platters and holiday ham-

Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus

The Christmas set menu at MOTT32

pers are thoughtfully assembled, transforming any gathering into a gourmet affair.

Amid the tempting treats and premium hampers on offer, guests are invited to consider the NUSTAR Convention Center as the venue for their corporate festivities. With spacious and versatile facilities, it's the ideal backdrop for hosting company Christmas soirees or initiating annual sales kickoff meetings. From the grandeur of the space to its impeccable service, the NUSTAR Convention Center ensures an unforgettable experience, setting the stage for successful and memorable functions.

With an aggregate gross floor area of over 4,000 square meters, the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) area at NUSTAR, with its flexible ballrooms, is the largest outside Metro Manila. The NUSTAR Convention Center alone can host up to 2,000 guests, making it the perfect venue for private, corporate, and entertainment events.

It is composed of three banquet halls, a lobby, a pre-function foyer and hallway, an open area lounge, and a bridal lounge. It also offers a range of dedicated spaces for differ-

ent needs, and an open area lounge that is perfect for casual gatherings, networking sessions, and afterparties for guests. Furthermore, the spacious lobby, measuring 179 square meters, enhances the overall experience for guests as they arrive at the venue, with its sweeping view of Cebu’s clear blue waters.

Finally, prepare for the grand finale as NUSTAR ushers in the new year with the glitziest countdown party at Axis Entertainment and Sports Bar. With a buffet dinner and live entertainment by guest bands, bid farewell to 2023 in true Gatsby style, and welcome the dawn of 2024 amid champagne toasts and a cascade of confetti.

With the theme “Roaring 2024,” NUSTAR’s countdown party is inspired by the opulent Roaring Twenties. Guests can come in their best 1920s outfit, and look forward to live music, extravagant décor, and a midnight celebration fitting of the era's exuberance.

For detailed information and reservations, please contact NUSTAR at (032) 888 8282. To view NUSTAR’s holiday brochure online, click on this link: NUSTAR-Holidays-2023.pdf.

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Sunday, December 10, 2023

TheWorld BusinessMirror

Editor: Angel R. Calso • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Israel, US increasingly at odds over conflicting visions for postwar Gaza

By Josef Federman & Samy Magdy The Associated Press

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ERUSALEM—The United States has offered strong support to Israel in its war against the Hamas militant group that rules the Gaza Strip. But the allies are increasingly at odds over what will happen to Gaza once the war winds down.

Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, this week announced that Israel would retain an open-ended security presence in Gaza. Israeli officials talk of imposing a buffer zone to keep Palestinians away from the Israeli border. They rule out any role for the Palestinian Authority, which was ousted from Gaza

by Hamas in 2007 but governs semi-autonomous areas of the occupied West Bank.

The United States has laid out a much different vision. Top officials have said they will not allow Israel to reoccupy Gaza or further shrink its already small territory.

They have repeatedly called for a return of the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority and the resumption of peace talks aimed at establishing a Palestinian state alongside Israel.

These conflicting visions have set the stage for difficult discussions between Israel and the US. Here’s a closer look at the issues.

Shaky common ground

ISRAEL declared war on Hamas after the Islamic militant group burst across its southern border on October 7, slaughtering some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping more than 240 others.

President Joe Biden quickly flew to Israel on a solidarity mission, and

his administration has strongly backed Israel’s right to defend itself while providing weapons and military assistance.

Israel has said its goal is to destroy Hamas—a difficult task given the group’s deep roots in Palestinian society.

The US, which along with other Western countries considers Hamas a terrorist group, has embraced this goal. But as the war drags on, it has expressed misgivings about the dire humanitarian conditions and mounting civilian death toll in Gaza, where health authorities report over 16,000 dead, at least two-thirds of them women and children. Israel says Hamas is to blame by using civilians as human shields.

Over the weekend, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said it is critical that Israel protect Gaza’s civilians.

“If you drive them into the arms of the enemy, you replace a tactical victory with a strategic defeat,” he said. “So I have repeatedly made clear to Israel’s leaders that protecting civilians in Gaza is both a moral responsibility and a strategic imperative.”

On Thursday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken went even farther, telling Israel that “civilian casualties remain too high and that Israel must step up its efforts to reduce them,” his office said. Blinken also called on Israel to increase the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Different visions

THE biggest differences between the allies have emerged over the longer-term vision for Gaza.

Netanyahu has offered only glimpses of what he plans.

On Tuesday, he said the military

US President Joe Biden, left, meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, right, to discuss the war between Israel and Hamas, in Tel Aviv, Israel, on October 18, 2023. The United States has offered strong support to Israel in its war against Hamas. But the allies are increasingly at odds over what will happen to the Gaza Strip once the war winds down. MIRIAM ALSTER/POOL PHOTO VIA AP

would retain open-ended security control over the Gaza Strip long after the war ends, suggesting a form of extended Israeli occupation.

Netanyahu ruled out the idea of foreign peacekeepers, saying only the Israeli army could ensure that Gaza remains demilitarized.

Netanyahu has also rejected a return of the Palestinian Authority, saying its leader, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas cannot be trusted.

“After destroying Hamas, Gaza will be demilitarized and de-radicalized so that no threat will be posed to Israel from Gaza,” said Ophir Falk, an adviser to Netanyahu. “The buffer zone may be part of the demilitarization. That’s the plan.”

Israel told Western allies and regional neighbors about the buffer zone plans as recently as last week, without offering a detailed proposal, according to Egyptians officials and Arab and Western diplomats, who insisted on anonymity to discuss the topic.

The officials said countries informed of the proposal include

Egypt, Qatar, Jordan, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Two Egyptian officials said it appears that Israel doesn’t have a detailed workable plan for such a zone, including its width.

“They just say, ‘it would be a temporary buffer zone,’” one of the officials said. “But when we asked for details, they don’t have answers.”

Arab countries, meanwhile, have refused to talk about postwar scenarios while the fighting continues and are demanding a cease-fire. Jordan’s foreign minister, Ayman Safadi, for instance, recently said that Arab countries would not “come and clean the mess after Israel.”

While no decisions have been taken, these ideas appear to put Israel at odds with the White House.

Biden and other top officials have repeatedly said that a “revitalized” Palestinian Authority must play a role in postwar Gaza and that Israel must seek a twostate solution involving the PA. They have ruled out a long-term re-occupation or redrawing of

Gaza’s borders.

Vice President Kamala Harris laid out perhaps the clearest US vision during an address in Dubai last weekend.

“Five principles guide our approach for post-conf lict Gaza: no forcible displacement, no reoccupation, no siege or blockade, no reduction in territory, and no use of Gaza as a platform for terrorism,” she said. “We want to see a unified Gaza and West Bank under the Palestinian Authority, and Palestinian voices and aspirations must be at the center of this work.”

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has said he would only agree to return to Gaza if it is part of a broader plan aimed at establishing an independent state that also includes the West Bank and east Jerusalem. Israel captured all three territories in the 1967 Mideast war.

Frustration with Netanyahu may not be limited to the US. Amos Harel, the military affairs columnist for the Haaretz daily, said Israeli army commanders believe Netanyahu is motivated by domestic political considerations and refusing to deal with the Palestinian Authority “due to coalition constructions from his far-right partners.” Netanyahu and his hardline coalition partners oppose Palestinian independence.

How serious are the disputes?

FOR now, both sides seem to be focused on the shared goal of destroying Hamas.

“It’s important for them that Israel achieve the military goals because this is the starting point for any changes that can happen the day after,” said Eldad Shavit, a former high-ranking Israeli intel-

ligence official.

He said US pressure in the short term will be on immediate issues— such as pressure to minimize civilian casualties and to allow more deliveries of humanitarian aid.

The US has indicated that it will show some patience after the fighting subsides.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said the US understands “there will have to be some kind of transition period after the end of major combat operations.”

He declined to say how long that would take.

But as the death toll in Gaza continues to rise, conditions deteriorate, and Biden enters an election year with significant portions of his Democratic base pushing for an end to Israel’s offensive, these differences are likely to grow in the absence of a clear endgame.

Shavit said that tensions could rise if the US at some point concludes that Israel is dragging its feet or ignoring American demands. But for now, “the Americans want Israel to succeed,” he said.

Daniel Levy, a former Israeli peace negotiator who is president of the US/Middle East Project, a policy institute that studies the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, said the Americans are unlikely to put their foot down.

He cited what he described as a tepid American response to heavy civilian casualties in southern Gaza as an indicator of what lies ahead.

“Israelis have a sense that their road to run is not endless, but they still feel they have lots of road to run,” he said.

Magdy reported from Cairo.

Trump’s vow to only be a dictator on ‘day one’ follows worry over his authoritarian rhetoric

By Jill Colvin & Bill Barrow The Associated Press

T

USC A LOOSA , A l a.—A s Donald Trump faces growing scrutiny over his increasingly authoritarian and violent rhetoric, Fox News host Sean Hannity gave his longtime friend a chance to assure the American people that he wouldn’t abuse power or seek retribution if he wins a second term.

But instead of offering a perfunctory answer brushing off the warnings, Trump stoked the fire.

“Except for day one,” the GOP front-runner said Tuesday night before a live audience in Davenport, Iowa. “I want to close the border, and I want to drill, drill, drill.”

And in case anyone missed it, he reenacted the exchange.

“We love this guy,” Trump said of Hannity. “He says, ‘You’re not going to be a dictator, are you?’ I said: ‘No, no, no, other than day one. We’re closing the border, and we’re drilling, drilling, drilling.

After that, I’m not a dictator.’”

Trump has a long history of making inflammatory proclamations that spark outrage from detractors and generate a stream of headlines, without ever coming to fruition. Often they are made in a tongue-in-cheek manner that allows Trump’s allies to claim he was joking and cite the backlash as another example of a candidate skilled at baiting an out-of-touch press that takes him far too literally.

Trump campaign aides said Thursday that the former president was simply trying to trigger the left and the media with his dictator comment, while also seeking to focus attention on the influx of migrants at the border and stubborn inflation, two vulnerabilities for President Joe Biden heading into the 2024 general election.

B ut t he con s e q u e nc e s of Trump’s rhetoric have been made all too clear, after he refused to accept the results of the 2020 election and a mob of his supporters violently stormed the US Capitol to stop the certification of Biden’s victory.

The former president, who has long expressed regard for authoritarian leaders and the power they wield, is now vowing vengeance and retribution as he outlines a second-term agenda marked by an unprecedented expansion of executive power, unparalleled interference in the justice system, and a massive purge of civil servants.

Indeed, hours before his remarks were aired, a longtime ally who is widely expected to serve in a

top national security role if Trump returns to the White House vowed to target journalists in a second Trump term.

“We’re going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens, who helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections,” said Kash Patel, even though numerous federal and local officials, a long list of courts, top former campaign staffers and even Trump’s own attorney general have all said there is no evidence of the fraud he alleges.

Biden and other critics have seized on Trump’s comments, painting him as a threat to democracy as they seek to turn the 2024 election into another referendum on the former president instead of Biden. Cognizant of the risks, Trump’s campaign has tried to distance itself from Patel’s statement as well as headline-grabbing policy plans proposed by several outside groups staffed by longtime Trump allies, with top aides issuing a statement last month saying the groups did not speak for the campaign.

Trump, too, has tried to turn the tables on Biden, who has increasingly argued the former president poses a fundamental danger to the country. In a speech in Iowa this month, Trump insisted it is really Biden who is the true “destroyer” of democracy, citing the four criminal indictments he is facing as politically motivated efforts to damage his campaign.

It’s an argument Trump and his campaign plan to continue to

make heading into the 2024 general election.

The Biden campaign’s attack, said Trump senior adviser Jason Miller, “is a clear sign that the Democrats believe their only possible pathway to victory is to go scorched earth on President Trump.”

Despite Democrats’ attempts “to make outlandish statements about what a future Trump term could look like,” Miller said, there is now a reference point: “Four years of President Trump in the White House, and he never did any of the types of things that Joe Biden is currently doing to him.”

But Trump’s own words are clear.

“In 2016, I declared I am your voice. Today, I add, I am your warrior. I am your justice. And for those who have been wronged and betrayed, I am your retribution,” he said in March 2023.

In the months since, Trump has repeatedly and explicitly vowed to use the Justice Department to target his enemies in a dramatic break from the long-standing, post-Watergate tradition of independence.

“I will appoint a real special prosecutor to go after the most corrupt president in the history of the United States of America, Joe Biden, the entire Biden crime family, and all others involved with the destruction of our elections, borders and our country itself,” he said in a June video.

In an interview with Univision, he went even further. “If I happen

to be president and I see somebody who’s doing well and beating me very badly, I say, ‘Go down and indict them,’” he said.

Last December, he mused about circumventing the Constitution, arguing that the election fraud he alleges “allows for the termination of all rules, regulations, and articles, even those found in the Constitution.”

He has taken an especially hostile approach to the press, vowing to “rout the fake news media,” calling reporters “THE ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE!” and saying outlets like NBC News and MSNBC should be investigated for treason.

Trump’s extensive policy plans also rely on a dramatic expansion of executive power. He wants to strip tens of thousands of career federal workers of their civil service protections, has vowed new ideological tests for those entering the country and has talked about increasing the military’s role on domestic soil, including sending the National Guard to the border and to cities like Chicago to tackle crime.

He has warned that the gravest threats to the nation come “not f rom abroad , but f rom within,” has called for expanded use of the death penalty while praising countries that rely on “quick ” trials and extrajudicial killings, and has said looters should be shot.

He has continued to praise authoritarian leaders like China’s Xi Jinping, Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Russia’s Vladimir Putin,

while dehumanizing his enemies as “scum” and “thugs” who “live like vermin.”

Aides argue the former president did not enact some of his most extreme campaign promises, like jailing his then-rival Hillary Clinton or enacting “a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States,” though he did try to ban foreign nationals from a handful of Muslim-majority countries. They note his campaign operation this time around has been widely praised as more disciplined and professional than his previous efforts—a sign of what could be to come.

But if he wins again, Trump is expected to face far fewer guardrails, including an administration filled with loyalists now experienced in wielding federal power, fewer rivals in Congress and more appointees across the courts.

Quentin Fulks, the No. 2 official on Biden’s reelection campaign, pushed back at Trump’s attempts to turn the issue back on Biden and said there is no comparison between the men. Biden, he said, is not standing at the presidential podium “saying that he’s going to round up his political enemies or use the government to go after his political enemies.”

He said it was imperative for Democrats to “call out this rhetoric when we see it and make sure the American people really know what’s at stake.”

Colvin reported from New York.

Science Sunday BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph • Editor: Lyn Resurreccion

Sunday, December 10, 2023

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UP scientists warn vs parasites in raw vegetables, seafood THE winners in the first Philippine Nuclear Science Olympiad (from left) Jeremiah Auza, fourth place; Jacob Emmanuel Sadorra, second place; Neil Kyle Maniquis, first place; Mohammad Nur Casib, third place; and Hans Matthew Mestido, fifth place. DOST-PNRI FACEBOOK PAGE

First PHL nuclear science olympiad gets youths’ interest

By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

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OR the first time, a nuclear science olympiad was held in the country in order to promote the technology among the youth. The inaugural event already drew the interest of high-school students with an unexpected 500 applicants.

The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PNRI) kicked off its 51st Atomic Energy Week (AEW 51) with the Philippine Nuclear Science Olympiad (PNSO).

The olympiad, which was established to identify and train the potential participants for the first International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO) in 2024, was part of the fourday celebration of the AEW 51 at the DOST-PNRI compound in Diliman, Quezon City, from December 4 to 7.

Dr. Chitho Feliciano, in charge of the olympiad, told the Business Mirror in an interview that in earlier AEW celebrations, they were just conducting a quiz bee on nuclear science, adding, “That ends there every year.”

He explained: “We intend to ramp the interest and knowledge in nuclear science through the olympiad.”

After the rigorous PNSO, Neil Kyle Maniquis of Manila Science High School took the gold medal.

Jacob Emmanuel Sadorra of Philippine Science High School (PSHS) Central Luzon Campus won the silver medal, while Mohammad Nur Casib from PSHS Central Mindanao Campus snatched the bronze medal.

Meanwhile, Jeremiah Auza of PSHS Central Visayas Campus and Hans Matthew Mestido from PSHS Western Visayas Campus, were awarded the fourth and fifth places, respectively.

To prepare for the INSO, the students will undergo a series of free training—such as experimentation and other advanced laboratory skills which will be taught by PNRI researchers and scientists.

Once their aptitude and skills are gauged, three to four students will become delegates for the international olympiad.

Feliciano also shared that they were “surprised” by the turnout of the first PNSO. They were only expecting around 100 students to participate but instead received 500 student applications.

Of the 500 junior and senior high-school students from both public and private schools who applied, only 166 students were screened through a written examination where they answered 100 multiple-choice questions in two hours.

In the final round, 20 finalists remained until the the Top 5 emerged.

The exams covered the topics of radiation, the structure of an atom and nucleus, fission and fusion, radioactivity in the environment, the history of nuclear science, risk and safety, and applications in various fields.

Improve, upgrade

SINCE there are olympiads for mathematics and other branches of sciences, such as physics, chemistry, biology and others, Feliciano said the International Atomic Energy Agency created an international olympiad for nuclear science too.

The olympiad’s highly competitive nature, he said, “will require upgrading not just in the knowledge of the students but as well as their trainers, coaches and teachers” in teaching the advanced topics in nuclear science, which will promote competency and advancement in nuclear science education at the secondary level.

Besides that, the organizing committee and the scientific community will also be “upgraded” because they will craft the mechanics and content of the exams as well as the facilities and materials to be used during the student’s training, Feliciano added.

In joining the INSO next year, Feliciano said that the DOST-PNRI’s primary goal is to enhance and make everyone better in terms of teaching, the materials to be used, the students’ knowledge and the facilities.

“It’s more than getting the award, it’s more than winning—it’s about upgrading the nation as a whole,” he said.

Gearing up younger generations

DOST-PNRI Director Dr. Carlo Arcilla highlighted in his message during the opening ceremony that it’s been half a century since the Philippines first thought of bringing nuclear science and technology closer to the public through this annual celebration, yet people still stigmatize the word “nuclear” because of its threats to the environment and safety.

To change the public’s negative perception toward nuclear technology, Arcilla said, “It is best that we slowly change such notion by educating and informing full well our young generation.”

Through the celebration of AEW attended by students from all over the country, Arcilla added, they may be able to shed light on crucial and social topics regarding nuclear science and technology to combat the proliferation of misinformation, which undermines and disregards the impacts of nuclear to the country and it’s future, he added.

Arcilla noted that the AEW 51’s theme, “Gearing up the next generation toward a Nuclear Philippines,” is fitting with the celebration’s main event—the PNSO. “I am hopeful that this PNSO is the start of many more olympiads and their realization of bringing nuclear science to the younger generation,” he said.

Nuke tech and climate change

SCIENCE Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., who just came back from Dubai for the 28th Conference of Parties of the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference, pointed out how nuclear technology can help in addressing the effects of climate change.

Emphasizing how everyone will be victims of global warming, he said nuclear technology has various applications—such as an alternative energy source, for the development of agricultural crops, water supply management, and protection of the environment.

“Nuclear science, technology and innovation certainly serve at the forefront of meeting the country’s myriad of challenges, such as food security, disaster risk reduction, plastic pollution, and climate change,” he said at the opening ceremony.

The Science chief also expressed his support for the Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC) headed by the Department of Energy, and for the establishment of a unified independent regulatory body for ionizing radiation sources through the bill for the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act pending in Congress.

The House Bill 9293 that aims to establish a legal framework to govern and facilitate nuclear energy’s peaceful, safe and secure uses, was approved on the third and final reading last November 22.

The bill was approved by the House of Representatives a week after the Philippines and the United States signed a landmark deal, commonly known as the “123 agreement,” which allows the US to export nuclear technology for peaceful uses to the country.

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HOROUGHLY wash and cook your market-bought fresh produce and seafood as a precautionary measure against parasites, University of the Philippines (UP) scientists advised the public.

T he parasite—Toxoplasma gond i i (T. gondii) — causes toxopl asmosis i l l ness.

Among the vegetables tested were lettuce, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower and mung bean sprouts. Oyster samples were also tested, the researchers said.

T. gondii is one of the most infectious parasites in the world—it affects almost a third of the world’s population, most especially vulnerable groups, such as pregnant and immunocompromised.

However, the scientists explained that while most infected people do not present any symptoms, some may suffer flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache and muscle aches..

But in severe cases, toxoplasmosis can cause inflammation of the brain and blurry vision. Infected parents’

TOXOPLASMA gondii parasites PHOTO CREDIT: CDC-DPD newborn infants may suffer from excessive fluid in the brain and developmental issues.

Fortunately, treatments are available for toxoplasmosis, hence symptomatic individuals are advised to seek timely medical attention, they added.

Researchers Cielo Emar M. Paraoan, Ren Mark D. Vil lanueva, and Mar ie Chr istine M. Obusan of the UP Diliman Col lege of Science’s Institute of Biolog y (UPD CS IB) found that T. gondii is fairly common in vegetables and oysters that they sampled from markets in Centra l Luzon.

Six out of sixty (10 percent) of t he col lected veget able sa mples

contained traces of T. gondii, with leafy vegetables found to be more contaminated than root vegetables, they explained.

Similarly, for oysters, 9.09 percent, or four out of 44 samples, were also contaminated, they added.

The researchers said that the T. gondii traces found on both vegetables and oysters are of Type I genotype.

The scientists aim to investigate further the genotypes of T. gondii that will be detected in the country, as Asia is reported to have a high degree of genetic diversity.

They said that the study provides evidence that T. gondii may be transmitted through vegetables and

PhilSA launches children’s book on space

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HE Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) launched its children’s book titled “Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan!” at the Philippine International Convention Center, Pasay City, on December 6.

The first-ever children’s activity book focuses on the treaties of the United Nations (UN) on outer space for elementary-school children.

It aims to spread awareness on space policy, law, and diplomacy for space science and technology applications (SSTA).

Likewise, it aims to utilize research and communication initiatives to influence the youth, and reinforce support for SSTA activities.

Authored by Patrick Mansujeto, illustrated by Ara Villena, and edited by Xi Zuq, the book is part of PhilSA’s “Space for all: Engaging the Youth on International Space Law and Policy Project.”

PhilSA Director General Dr. Joel Joseph S. Marciano Jr. shared that Filipino children have innate curiosity about space. It starts with learning about the planets and the stars in their formative years.

Part of PhilSA’s mission is to connect with Filipino children and show them the possibilities outer space can bring with its “yamang kalawakan,” or the space resources, that can be used for the country’s development.

Science Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., in a recorded message, highlighted the importance of the book in his message of support.

KYRIE SANCHEZ (left) and Juan Magiting de la Cruz (right) with Joseph Gutierrez of PhilSA read “Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan!”. PHILSA PHOTO

“As we witness the unfolding of ‘Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan!’ we recognize that PhilSA is continuing the legacy that the DOST started in the field of space science education. This illustrated story book… is a gateway to the cosmos for young minds and young minds at heart,” Solidum said.

“By introducing the UN treaties on outer space at the primary education level, PhilSA is sowing the seeds of awareness and responsibility among our youth,” he added.

As the central government agency focused on national issues and activities related to SSTA, PhilSA actively participates in the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.

PhilSA’s initiatives include strengthening ties with the international community, Philippine ratification of the international space treaties, and PhilSA’s Space For All: Engaging the Youth on International Space Law and Policy Project, said Director Atty.

Noelle Riza Castillofor Space Policy and International Cooperation Bureau.

A live reading of “Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan!” was conducted by elementary-school pupils Kyrie Sanchez and Juan Magiting de la Cruz. accompanied by Joseph Gutierrez of PhilSA. In her closing remarks Direc tor Nadine Rosario Morales of Department of Foreign Affairs-United Nations and Other International Organizations congratulated

Livestock shines at natl biotech week in Cebu City

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HY don’t we use the best available technology there is in agriculture?”

This question was posed by Adriel Dave “Farmer AD” Alvarez, a Cebu-based farmer in his message of support to the 19th National Biotechnology Week (NBW) celebration held in Cebu City from November 20 to 24, said Marah A. Arquero of the Department of Agriculture-Livestock Biotechnology Center (DA-LBC).

Agriculture Undersecretary Mercedita A. Sombilla said in her opening remarks, “The DA’s commitment to biotechnology is rooted in our overall vision of a sustainable, inclusive and globally competitive agricultural sector that can meet the evolving needs of our nation.”

Together with the Inter-Agenc y Steering Committee agencies, partners and participants, a ceremonial signing of the “Declaration of Support for the Advancement of Biotechnology in the Philippines” wall was held.

The DA-LBC was among the agencies that participated during the weeklong event, Arquero said.

A ribbon cutting of the NBW Exhibit was held at a mall in Cebu City, where the DALBC set-up a laboratory for cryopreserved buffalo semen-sample viewing for students

Students visit the exhibits during the 19th National Biotechnology Week in Cebu City. ERICA R. LAPUZ

and booth visitors. It was one of the main attractions of the exhibit.

The DA-LBC activities included the following: NBW Snapshot Challenge: The NBW Capture the Moment: Biotech Booth Snapshot Challenge ran from November 20 to 22. It engaged the participants from NBW build-up activities of the DA-LBC and exhibit visitors. Four were chosen as winners.

Biotek Tanong: DA-LBC Booth visitors joined the interactive game “Biotek

Tanong” from which they pulled animal biotechnology-related trivia questions from a raffle box and visitors who answered correctly were given souvenir items.

QuickCArE Test Kit Showcase: The penside diagnostic test kit for the detection of Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis virus of goats developed by the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) was also showcased at the exhibit.

Actual samples, display and UV box were provided and prepared by Dr. Gabriel Alexis SP. Tubalinal, head of the Biosafety and

oysters that are being sold in supermarkets and public markets.

However, the researchers noted that they only tested a sma l l s a mple s i z e , a nd more s t ud ie s w ith big ger sample sizes must be conducted. T hey have an ongoing study that detects the parasite in env ironmenta l samples.

The study also underscores the importance of adequately preparing fresh produce and seafood to eliminate not just T. gondii but also other parasites that may be present.

The authors also emphasized the need for better management of biological pollutants.

“The most sustainable approach for reducing the risk of T. gondii exposure through the consumption of seafood should focus on reducing T. gondii contamination at its source, as well as mitigating the f low of contaminated runoff to water bodies,” the authors said in their paper, published in the October 2023 issue of the Philippine Journal of Science.

and commended PhilSA for the timely publication of its children’s book.

In line with the learner-based and inquiry-based science curriculum, Morales also noted that the book will certainly inspire the country’s next generation of leaders to pursue interests in outer space.

“The [DFA] has likewise advocated for the Philippine Space Agenda through space science diplomacy—ensuring its integration in and consistency with relevant treaties and international agreements,” Morales said.

With this, the DFA assures that it will continue providing PhilSA with strategic and policy guidelines to promote and protect Philippine interests before the international community, facilitate accession to ratification of space and space-related instruments, as well as forge and strengthen partnerships in the pursuit of our aim for the Philippines to become an even more active and responsible space actor, Morales added.

A pledge of support from the participants was also signed during the program.

The book launch was joined by Giovanni Serritella of the EU Delegation to the Philippines, Lorenzo New of the Embassy of the United States of America, Pooja Vernekar of the Embassy of India, Nikolai Ovsiannikov of the Embassy of Russia, and Chichiro Kanino of the Embassy of Japan in Manila.

Officials and representatives from the DFA, Department of Science and Technology, local government units of Pasay City, Taguig City, the Philippine Coast Guard, Embassy of Poland, University of Sto. Tomas, New Era University.

The book may be read through this link: Philippine Space Agency (philsa.gov.phm) Environment Section of PCC. 7th International Livestock Biotechnology Symposium: A build-up activity for the 19th NBW, the seventh International Livestock Biotechnology Symposium was held last October 18 in Tagbilaran, Bohol.

It was attended by over 400 participants from allover the country. The DA-LBC also set-up a pop-up booth during the event to further promote NBW activities.

C a p a c i t y B u i l d i n g Wo r k s h o p on Molecular Biology and Modern Biotechnology Tools for Livestock Research and Development: Twentyone participants from the DA Network were trained at the PCC laboratories from November 6 to 10: This was a series of lectures followed with hands-on application of basic and advanced molecular biology techniques.

The weeklong activities, organized by the DA Biotechnology Program Office and its partner biotechnology agencies, such as the DA-LBC, Fisheries Biotechnology Center and the Crop Biotechnology Center, were aligned with the overarching theme of the 19th NBW celebration, “Empowering Innovation for a Sustainable Future with Biotechnology.”

Marking the close of the week-long activities, the chairmanship of the 20th National Biotechnology Week in 2024 was passed on to the Commission on Higher Education through a ceremonial passing of the NBW flag on November 24, Arquero said.

Faith

Sunday

A6 Sunday, December 10, 2023

Editor: Lyn Resurreccion • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Pope to COP28: Environmental destruction ‘an offense against God’ R OME—Pope Francis called the destruction of the env i ron ment “a n of fense against God” in a message given to the participants in the UN climate summit last week.

The keynote address that the pope had intended to give in person at the Conference of the Parties (COP28) conference was distributed to the attendees in Dubai, where Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin read a shortened version of the pope’s speech to the assembly on December 2.

Pope Francis, who turns 87 in two weeks, canceled his scheduled trip to the United Arab Emirates days before the climate summit at the request of his doctors after coming down with a flu infection that left him with breathing difficulties and acute bronchitis.

“Sadly, I am unable to be present with you, as I had greatly desired,” the pope said in his message to COP28.

“Even so … I am with you because the destruction of the environment is an offense against God, a sin that is not only personal but also structural, one that greatly endangers all human beings, especially the most vulnerable in our midst, and threatens to unleash a conflict between generations.”

Pope Francis would have been the first pope to attend the UN’s climate change conference, which has been held annually since 1995.

POPE Francis during the Sunday Angelus address, November 26. VATICAN MEDIA

Care for creation has been an important theme in Francis’ pontificate. The pope has said that he decided to write his 2015 environmental encyclical Laudato Si’ ahead of the COP21 summit in Paris and recently published a new apostolic exhortation titled Laudate Deum (“Praise God ”), called climate change “one of the principal challenges facing society and the global community.”

In his message to the COP28 conference, the pope underlined the need for “multilateralism” to establish “global and effective rules” to fight climate change.

“Climate change signals the need for political change. Let us emerge from the narrowness of self-interest and nationalism;

these are approaches belonging to the past,” he said.

The pope called it “disturbing” that “global warming has been accompanied by a general cooling of multilateralism, a growing lack of trust within the international community.”

“How much energy is humanity wasting on numerous wars … conflicts that will not solve problems but only increase them!” he added.

Pope Francis described environmental protections as part of “a culture of life” and underlined that attempts to shift blame for climate change onto the poor or high birth rates “must be firmly dispelled.”

“Births are not a problem, but a resource: They are not opposed

to life, but for life, whereas certain ideological and utilitarian models now being imposed with a velvet glove on families and peoples constitute real forms of colonization,” he said.

“Let us join in embracing an alternative vision: this will help to bring about an ecological conversion, for ‘there are no lasting changes without cultural changes’ (Laudate Deum, 70),” the pope added.

“In this regard, I would assure you of the commitment and support of the Catholic Church, which is deeply engaged in the work of education and of encouraging participation by all, as well as in promoting sound lifestyles, since all are responsible and the contribution of each is fundamental.”

During the COP28 summit in Dubai, Cardinal Parolin also presided over the inauguration of an interfaith pavilion at the climate conference on December 3 alongside Spanish Cardinal Miguel Ángel Ayuso Guixot, an expert on Islam and current prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue.

The faith pavilion, hosted by the Muslim Council of Elders, serves as a hub for faith-based engagement on climate issues and as the venue of more than 65 sessions with religious figures, scientists, and political leaders at the conference. Courtney Mares/ Catholic News Agency via CBCP News

Lipa SAC director elected to CBCP Social Action Network

By Patrick Miguel

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HE current director of Lipa Archdiocesan Social Action Commission Inc. (Lasac) was recently elected as representative to the Social Action Network (SAN) of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

As a representative to SAN, Fr. Jayson Siapco becomes a member

of the board of trustees of CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Social Action, Justice and Peace that supervises Caritas Philippines.

“My role there is to represent the whole social action network.

And these calls for understanding—to learn the situation in every area, proper coordination with various social actions. I will be the voice, eyes, ears, and hands

Centennial seeds of faith: Enduring legacy of Binondo Chinese Parish in the Chinese-Filipino Apostolate

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N a historic celebration on December 7, 2023, the Binondo Chinese Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary in Ongpin Street, Binondo, Manila, Philippines marked the centennial year of the re-establishment of the Chinese-Filipino Apostolate to the Dominican Fathers.

The 5:30 PM concelebrated mass was presided over by Most Reverend Bishop Leopoldo C. Jaucian S.V.D., D.D., Bishop of Bangued, Abra, and attended by over 20 priests and nuns from the Dominican community, as well as various parish priests engaged in the Chinese apostolate.

The administration of baptism and confirmation, along with the reception of the first Holy Communion, of Kramer Go and Janssen Jeremy Co during the celebratory mass added a profound layer of significance to an already historic event, symbolizing the

continuous growth and renewal of faith within the Binondo Chinese Parish.

Under the guidance of Bishop Jaucian, the congregation reflected on the crucial role played by the Binondo Chinese Parish in nurturing the roots of the Chinese-Filipino Apostolate mission. The Parish stands as a living testament to the enduring commitment of the Dominican Fathers to the Chinese community in Manila, tracing its origins back to 1587.

The complex history of the parish, marked by temporary ministries, changes in religious administration, and moments of perceived abandonment, led to a pivotal turning point in 1923. Responding to the heartfelt plea of the Binondo Chinese communit y, the Sacred Consistorial Commission in Rome officially transferred the ministry of the Chinese back to the

in the management of Caritas Philippines,” Siapco said partly in Filipino in a Radio Veritas report.

The priest expressed gratitude to the former SAN representative, Fr. Clifford Baira, the current SAC director of the Archdiocese of Cotabato.

Siapco asked fellow directors to continue working together to address the needs of each dioDominicans on December 7. This decision breathed new life into the spiritual landscape of the Binondo Chinese Parish and solidified its position as a central hub for the Chinese apostolate.

At the forefront of the current ChineseFilipino Apostolate of the Philippines is Bishop Jaucian, Bishop of Bangued, Abra, along with Monsignor Esteban U. Lo, LRMS, Assistant National Coordinator, and Reverend Father Aristotle C. Dy, S.J., as the National Secretary.

Their steadfast leadership has paved the way for a thriving apostolate that resonates with the community’s spiritual needs.

During the centennial celebration, Bishop Jaucian made an official proclamation, declaring the Binondo Chinese Parish as the “Mother” of the Chinese-Filipino Apostolate mission. The roots of this spiritual tree can be traced back to the fertile ground of the Binondo Chinese Parish, where faith, culture, and tradition intertwine harmoniously.

A poignant moment during the festivities was the unveiling and blessing of an Image of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary by Bishop Jaucian. This sacred act not only reinforced the deep spiritual bond between the Binondo Chinese Parish and Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary but also underscored her role as the patroness of the Parish.

Led by Parish Priest Rev. Fr. John Vianney Wang Jian O.P. and Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Jerome Wu O.P., the Binondo Chinese Parish stands tall as a beacon of faith, unity, and cultural preservation. This living testament to the enduring spirit of a community with deep roots continues to nurture a healthy tree of Chinese apostolate, bearing fruits of faith, love, and understanding. As the Parish looks forward to the next century, may it continue to be a guiding light for the Chinese-Filipino Apostolate for generations to come.

cese, especially providing help to the needy.

“Thank you so much for the trust given by my fellow directors, the priests and laity directors of social action networks all over the Philippines. Thank you for the trust and I ask them for a constant, open communication with me to address concerns in Caritas Philippines,” Siapno said in Filipino.

CEBU Auxiliary Bishop Midyphil Billones delivers his keynote address during the 12th Catholic Social Media Summit at the Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu in Mandaue City last December 2. JAY MANGUSSAD

Bishop to Church media workers: Go beyond likes, views

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EELING frustrated and discouraged by low likes, shares or views? A Catholic bishop has warned the church’s media ministry workers against being “obsessed” with what he called as the “followers” system on social media.

Speaking at the recent 12th Catholic Social Media Summit (CSMS), Auxiliary Bishop Midyphil Billones of Cebu said that number doesn’t matter “as long as you encourage them [social media followers] to find strength in their faith.”

“In the Catholic online community, this does not matter as long as you encourage them to find strength in their faith. You have served your purpose,” Billones said in his keynote address.

“Even if far less but your followers are led to Christ, this is better than a million followers led away from the Lord,” he said.

Nearly 400 participants have attended the two-day summit, which started at the Sacred Heart School—Ateneo de Cebu in Mandaue City, with a quarter of them joined virtually.

The event brought together social communication ministry workers and Catholic media practitioners from different dioceses,

congregations, and church organizations.

While the digital media platform can be “bastardized or weaponized,” the bishop said that it also offers a good opportunity for evangelization and transformation.

“We admit its limitations and vulnerabilities, but we cannot deny its potentials and its possibilities,” according to him.

A Catholic media evangelizer, he added, must also learn “the art of bridge-building.”

“There are souls longing to be reached out, too. There are thirsty minds needing enlightenment and there are hearts yearning for meaningful connections not cat fishing or relating to an avatar. We can make a difference,” he said.

CSMS is an initiative of YouthPinoy, a group of young “online missionaries, in collaboration with the Media Office of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), Areopagus Communications, and the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Social Communications (ECSC).

This year’s Catholic Social Media Summit is hosted by the Archdiocese of Cebu through its Cebu Archdiocesan Digital Communications Ministry. CBCP News

Bishop backs Christmas convoy to Ayungin shoal

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CATHOLIC bishop in the northern Palawan diocese of Taytay has given his support to a civilian-led Christmas caravan in the West Philippine Sea. Bishop Broderick Pabillo described the three-day initiative starting on December 10, International Human Rights Day, as “laudable.”

“It is a peaceful way to support our militar y officers and our fisher folks as they defend our territorial waters,” Pabillo said.

“The convoy will bring gifts and good cheers to them as a way of showing support for them. It is a peaceful activity within our

own territorial waters,” he said.

The National Security Council (NSC) earlier authorized the caravan being organized by the Atin Ito Coalition, allowing them to pass through the general vicinity of Ayungin Shoal.

The agency, however, did not allow the convoy of at least 40 boats to reach the BRP Sierra Madre, a rusty old navy ship that serves as the nation’s military outpost.

The bishop thanked all the people who supported the initiative “by sending them their gifts.”

“May this activity bring good cheers to all,” Pabillo said. CBCP News

Hanukkah celebrations changed dramatically–same with Christmas

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ANUKKAH is not the Jewish Christmas. Articles and op-eds in newspapers remind readers of that fact every year, lamenting that the Jewish Festival of Lights has almost become an imitation of the Christian holiday.

These pieces exist for a reason. Hanukkah is a minor festival in the Jewish liturgical year, whose major holidays come in the fall and spring— the High Holidays and Passover, respectively.

It is observed for eight nights and days, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which may occur at any time from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar. This year, it is celebrated from the evening of December 7 to December 15.

Because of its proximity to Christmas, however, Hanukkah has been culturally elevated into a major celebration.

American shops and schools nod to diversity by putting up menorahs next to Christmas trees, or including the dreidel song in the “holiday concert” alongside Santa, Rudolph or the Christ child.

Even Chabad, an Orthodox Jewish movement, holds public menorah lightings that look remarkably like public Christmas tree lightings.

Store windows, doctors’ offices and college dining halls display Christmas trees and menorahs side by side, though the latter is a ritual object, not merely a decoration.

A menorah, or “hanukkiah,” is lit in a specific way, on specific days, with accompanying prayers—more akin to a Christian Advent wreath than to the holly decking the halls.

Much of my Jewish studies and gender research focuses on interfaith families, for whom these issues can be especially tricky.

I empathize with Jewish Americans worried about Hanukkah growing too similar to Christmas—but the history of both holidays is more complicated than these comparisons let on.

Ancient revolt

THERE’S a deep irony, of course, in seeing Hanukkah as a prime example of assimilation: The festival itself celebrates a victory against assimilation.

In 168 BCE, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, king of the Seleucid Empire, sent his army to conquer Jerusalem.

He outlawed Jewish holidays, Shabbat observance and practices such as circumcision.

His troops set up altars to the Greek gods in the Jewish temple, dedicating it to Zeus.

The Maccabees, a Jewish resistance movement led by a priestly family, opposed both Antiochus and Jews who assimilated to the conquering Greek culture.

Hanukkah celebrates the rebels’ victory over the Seleucid army.

In the temple, the Jews kept an eternal flame burning—as synagogues do today.

When the Maccabees reclaimed the temple, however, there was enough oil to last for only a day. Miraculously, the story says it lasted for a week: enough time to bring in more oil.

Traditional holiday celebrations, therefore, include lighting the menorah each night for eight days and eating food cooked in oil.

Spinning dreidel games are also traditional, as are songs like “Maoz Tzur.”

“Hanukkah bushes” topped with a Star of David, extravagant presents, community menorah lightings in the park, blue and white lights on houses and Hanukkah Advent calendars? Not traditional, if “traditional”

means things that have happened for hundreds of years.

Carols and carousing

ASSIMILATION to the United States’ Christianmajority culture has played a role in Hanukkah’s modern transformation. That said, the story of how Hanukkah came to have the commercial, kids-and-gifts focus that it has in the US today is a bit more complicated.

When people worry that Hanukkah is simply a Jewish adaptation to the Christmas gift season, I think they are imagining that Christmas itself has always been as most Americans today know it—with the presents, the tree and the family togetherness.

But, in fact, both contemporary Christmas and contemporary Hanukkah grew up together in response to the Industrial Revolution.

Before the Industrial Revolution, both Europe and North America were primarily agrarian societies. When the harvest was completed, the entire Advent season took on an air of revelry— there was caroling in the streets and a certain amount of drunken carousing.

For the more wealthy, it was a season of parties and balls. Sometimes, there would be class-based conflict—like vandalism or other crimes—between the wealthy partygoers and the working-class street parties.

The highlight of the season was New Year’s rather than Christmas. Gifts, if any, were small and usually handmade.

The wealthy gave end-of-the-year bonuses to servants and tradespeople. All in all, the season was as much about friends as family, and celebrated in public as much or more than in private.

Samira Mehta,University of Colorado Boulder/The Conversation (CC) via AP

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Sunday, December 10, 2023 A7

Editor: Lyn Resurreccion

Verde Island Passage in photos to inspire awe, action for protection

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By Jonathan L. Mayuga

N November 6, the National Museum of Natural History opened its latest exhibit: Verde Island Passage (VIP).

Organized and initiated by the Manila-based think tank Center of Energy, Ecology and Development (CEED) and the group Protect VIP, the exhibit, titled “Our VIP: Protecting a Paradise in Peril,” showcased spectacular photographs, some never-before-seen underwater features and marine species in the VIP, and the challenges facing the rich maritime area.

The photographs were taken by renowned underwater photographers of the country, including Gutsy Tuason, Danny Ocampo, Boogs Rosales and Marivic Maramot, among others.

Gerry Arances, CEED executive director and co-convenor of Protect VIP, said that through the exhibit they hope to inspire both awe and action to save the VIP. “The exhibit will be there at the National Museum for three months,” he told the BusinessMirror in a telephone interview on November 27.

A memorandum of agreement was signed by CEED and the National Museum to showcase the VIP through a photo exhibition that will help raise public awareness about its beauty and the threats to its existence.

Beauty and ‘beast’

IN an interview on November 25, Ocampo, an underwater photography expert, shared that the VIP is truly fascinating.

However, he said not all scenes underwater are awesome because there are also photos of the “beast”— ocean plastic pollution—that are slowly killing the beauty of VIP. In the exhibit are rare photos of goby corals and sea snakes, he said.

“But there’s also garbage,” he said.

During his dives in the VIP area—which covers the provinces of Batangas, Romblon and Occidental and Oriental Mindoro— ”one gets to see so many species,” Ocampo said.

He shared that ever since he started diving in the VIP back in 1989, he has seen new species in almost every dive.

It was in one of his dives that he was able to photograph a Sailfin Velifer, which, according to fish experts, was the “first photographic evidence underwater” of the species.

On ocean plastic pollution, he said: “I feel sad and sometimes hopeless whenever I see plastics underwater, especially ones that can be avoided so as not to amass and pile up in the ocean. A lot of it, really is from the consumer side that can be changed, but there are others [garbage] that will need government and corporations to change the delivery system and packaging of their products,” he said.

‘Center of the center of shorefish biodiversity’

CONSIDERED by scientists as the “center of the center of shorefish biodiversity,” the VIP is one of the country’s economically important water bodies.

In 2005, Kent Carpenter of the International Union for Conservation of Nature; and Victor Springer of the Smithsonian Institution— have said a total of 1,736 overlapping marine species found over a vast 10-kilometer area that has the highest concentration of marine life, thus, declaring it the center of the center of shorefish biodiversity.

Important water body

IT is an important fishing ground as well as a shipping route that allows sea transportation to bring people, as well as goods and services, from one port to another.

Specifically, this maritime area sits in the heart of several island provinces. It separates Batangas on the main island of Luzon on one side, and the island provinces of Mindoro, Marinduque and Romblon on the other.

SOME of the fascinating species found in the Verde Island Passage that were captured in photos by underwater photography expert Danny Ocampo are currently on exhibit at the National Museum of Natural History in Manila.

Between Batangas and Mindoro, where passengers and cargo ships pass, sits Batangas City’s Verde Island, from which the strait was named.

Under siege

WHILE the VIP may be rich in marine biodiversity, the unbridled development and other anthropogenic pressures, or pollution caused by human activities, are taking their toll on fishing communities around it, Arances said.

Grateful to the National Museum for hosting the exhibit, he said “We want to bring the beauty of these underwater features and the richness of the VIP to the people through photographs. These photos are proof of what exists in that area.”

In a way, Arances said the exhibit is their way of raising public awareness of what the people stand to lose if the VIP remains unprotected.

Online petition

ON the same day the exhibit was opened, CEED and Protect VIP

launched an online petition to have the VIP declared as a Protected Area under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENipas) Act. The online petition mentions that the VIP is home to 60 percent of shorefish species in the country, along with 300 coral species and reef formations.

Its resources provide food and livelihood for more than two million Filipinos. However, they are threatened by climate change, oil spills, shipping impacts, and the proliferation of fossil gas terminals and power plants in the surrounding area.

Raising awareness

IN a statement, National Museum Deputy Director General Jorell Legaspi was quoted in highlighting the importance of the exhibit to generate public awareness to protect the VIP. “With the challenges facing the integrity of the VIP, we hope that this exhibition will not only increase public consciousness and

positive reception of the VIP’s role in the country’s food security and in abating climate change, but we are also looking forward to heightening the call to legally protect the VIP,” Legaspi said.

“As such, the [National Museum] supports the advocacy of protecting and conserving this important Passage where biodiversity is at its highest so that our upcoming generations will continue to have a secured future in terms of sustenance, health, and well-being,” he said.

At risk, highly vulnerable

CITING the recent oil spill that affected Mindoro, Batangas, and other areas as far as Visayas, Arances said the VIP is at risk and highly vulnerable to pressures caused by human activities and unrestricted and unchecked business interests.

To recall, on February 28, more than 900,000 liters of industrial oil were leaked by the sinking of MT Princess Empress.

Arances noted that until now,

no one was held accountable.

“This tragedy prevented thousands of fisherfolk from fishing in the area and affected the economies of the towns that depend on fishing and tourism for income,” he said.

Arances pointed out that despite the dangers of leaks from the passage of ships with toxic cargo, the government continues to encourage the building of gas power plants in the area, which will naturally drive up ship traffic and increase chances of another, more serious accident.

“The loss of the biodiversity of VIP will spell disaster for the country. Not only do we lose an ecological treasure, we would also lose a significant source of our food and tourism revenue from those who wish to see its natural wonders,” said Father Edwin Gariguez, lead convenor of Protect VIP. “ENipas is a legal instrument that must be immediately and urgently bestowed to the VIP and we hope that this exhibit will be the first step in achieving this goal,” Gariguez added.

Scientists: November is 6th month in a row in heat record; 2023 a cinch as hottest year

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UBAI, United Arab Emirates—For the sixth month in a row, Earth set a new monthly record for heat, and also added the hottest autumn to the litany of record-breaking heat this year, the European climate agency calculated.

And with only one month left, 2023 is on the way to smashing the record for hottest year.

November was nearly a third of a degree Celsius (0.57 degrees Fahrenheit [0.57°F]) hotter than the previous hottest November, the European Space Agency’s Copernicus Climate Change Service announced early Wednesday.

November was 1.75 °C (3.15 °F) warmer than pre-industrial times, tying October and behind September, for the hottest above average for any month, the scientists said.

“The last half year has truly

been shocking,” said Copernicus Deputy Director Samantha Burgess. “Scientists are running out of adjectives to describe this.’’

November averaged 14.22 degrees Celsius (57.6 degrees Fahrenheit), which is 0.85 degrees Celsius (1.5 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than the average the last 30 years. Two days during the month were 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than pre-industrial times, something that hadn’t happened before, according to Burgess.

So far this year is 1.46 °C (2.6 °F) warmer than pre-industrial times, about a seventh of a degree warmer than the previous warmest year of 2016, Copernicus scientists calculated. That’s very close to the international threshold the world set for climate change.

The 2015 Paris climate agree-

A VILLAGE woman gives water to Sunil Kumar Naik, an ambulance driver, to quench his thirst during a heat wave, on the way to a hospital, near a village in Banpur in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, on June 17. AP/RAJESH KUMAR SINGH

ment set a goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 °C (2.7 °F) above pre-industrial times over the long term and failing that at least 2 °C (3.6 °F).

Diplomats, scientists, activists

and others meeting at the United Nations climate conference in Dubai for nearly two weeks are trying to find ways to limit warming to those levels, but the planet isn’t cooperating.

Scientists calculate with the promises countries around the world have made and the actions they have taken, Earth is on track to warm 2.7 to 2.9 °C (4.9 to 5.2 °F) above pre-industrial times.

The northern autumn is also the hottest fall the world has had on record, Copernicus calculated.

Copernicus records go back to 1940. United States government calculated records go back to 1850.

Sc ient ists using prox ies— such as ice cores, tree rings and corals—have said this is the warmest decade Earth has seen in about 125,000 years, dating back before human civilization. And the last several months have been the hottest of the last decade.

Scientists say there are two driving forces behind the six straight record hottest months in a row.

One is human-caused climate change from the burning of coal, oil and gas. That’s like an escalator.

But the natural El Niño-La Niña cycle is like jumping up or down on that escalator.

The world is in a potent El Niño, which is a temporary warming of parts of the central Pacific that changes weather worldwide, and that adds to global temperatures already spiked by climate change.

It’s only going to get warmer as long as the world keeps pouring greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, Burgess said. And she said that means “catastrophic floods, fires, heat waves, droughts will continue.’’

“2023 is very likely to be a cool year in the future unless we do something about our dependence on fossil fuels,” Burgess said.

Seth Borenstein, Ap Science Writer

Paris 2024 surfing event: Finding a solution in Tahiti

Sports BusinessMirror

A8 | S

unday, December 10, 2023 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

A SURFER rides a wave during the Tahiti Pro surfing competition, a test event for the Paris 2024 Olympics, in Teahupo’o, French Polynesia, in the Pacific Ocean in August. AP

Kyrgios, a disruptor, gets a platform to air thoughts T ENNIS pro Nick Kyrgios is setting up a free-to-access OnlyFans page.

Kyrgios is a 28-year-old Australian who was the runner-up to Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon in 2022 but was sidelined by injuries for nearly all of this past season. He played in just one official singles match in 2023.

The plan to interact with the public on OnlyFans was announced Thursday via a news release and confirmed by Evolve, the talent management agency formed by Naomi Osaka that represents Kyrgios.

He is one of the most prominent male athletes to join the platform.

“They are revolutionizing social media and I wanted to be a part of that.

Athletes can no longer just show up on the court or the field. We have to show up online too. I want to create, produce, direct and own content. That’s the future,” Kyrgios was quoted as saying in the announcement.

London-based OnlyFans is a subscription site where people can pay creators for photos and videos.

It includes sexually explicit content, something Kyrgios will not be posting.

“Nick is a disruptor, so it’s great to see him joining our platform, finding new ways to share his content and express himself,” OnlyFans CEO Keily Blair said in the news release.

Kyrgios is frequently outspoken off the tennis court—including open discussions about his mental health—and often outlandish on it, drawing attention for antics that sometimes draw punishment from the sport’s governing bodies.

He is a talented athlete whose serve is among the biggest in the game and who has proven capable of beating the very best, including Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.

He’s been ranked as high as No. 13 in the world—although currently does not have an Association of

Tennis Professionals ranking because of his extended absence from competition—and owns seven singles titles. He has earned more than $12 million in prize money.

Kyrgios teamed with good friend Thanasi Kokkinakis to win the 2022 Australian Open men’s doubles championship.

The best singles performance by Kyrgios came at Wimbledon last year, when he made it past the

quarterfinals of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time and grabbed the opening set of the final against Djokovic—who now owns a men’s-record 24 major trophies— before losing 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (3).

Even those two weeks of sustained excellence were memorable for more than forehands and backhands. Kyrgios was fined $10,000 at Wimbledon

NICK KYRGIOS is frequently outspoken off the tennis court—including open discussions about his mental health. AP

Privacy concerns receive premium in transgender sports case in Utah

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ALT LAKE CITY—Transgender teenagers who are challenging a Utah law banning trans girls from playing on girls’ sports teams can keep portions of their mental health records confidential after a state judge ruled Thursday that some details are irrelevant to the case.

Two student-athletes whose families sued over the 2022 state law were ordered in September

by Judge Keith Kelly to give state attorneys access to the last seven years of their mental health records, as well as all documents related to medical transition and puberty.

Kelly temporarily blocked the state from enforcing the ban, which took effect last year after the Republicancontrolled Legislature overrode Gov. Spencer Cox’s veto, while the court continues to assess its legality.

Cox drew national attention as one of the few Republican governors who pushed back against state lawmakers’ restrictions on transgender youth, warning that such bans target kids already at a high risk for suicide. Utah is one of more than a dozen states that have passed such bans.

Kelly ruled last August that transgender girls could return to athletic competition after hearing several hours of student testimony describing how exclusion from sports

was causing them significant distress.

He described the ban as “plainly unfavorable treatment” and said it must be put on pause to protect the girls from “irreparable harm” and a severe impact on their mental health.

But because the girls’ “physical, mental and emotional circumstances” factored into his decision to grant the preliminary injunction, he also determined that their mental health records were relevant to the case.

His ruling Thursday does little to alleviate privacy concerns raised by the plaintiffs’ attorneys, who argue the state should not have access to the deeply personal mental health records of children who have not waived their therapist-client privilege.

Only details concerning irrelevant third parties, certain isolated events and the students’ deadnames, or the birth names that they no longer use, will remain redacted, Kelly said Thursday.

“These children should have the ability to speak freely in their therapy sessions without an intrusion into that privilege that exists between patients and providers,” Amy Whelan, an attorney for the plaintiffs, told The Associated Press after the hearing.

“And the issues that they’re discussing are really not at issue in a sports case.”

Whelan said the next step is

to work out internally with the state’s lawyers how those records can be used in court. Before defense attorneys begin taking depositions, the families’ lawyers will outline what they think is and is not appropriate to ask the minor plaintiffs to try to minimize “any potential harm or stress that could result,” she said.

Lawyers from the attorney general’s office, which represents the state, have argued they should have full access to the girls’ mental health records, including portions that might not seem relevant to the case, so they can assess whether the state law is responsible for the distress the girls have described. By centering their arguments around the alleged mental health impacts of the ban, defense attorney Jason Dupree argues the plaintiffs opened the door to a complete examination of their mental health history.

The attorney general’s office did not immediately respond to phone messages seeking comment on the outcome of Thursday’s hearing.

The girls’ families argue in their lawsuit that categorical bans on transgender athletes single out their daughters for less favorable treatment than other girls. Their lawyers say the law treats a student’s transgender status as a proxy for athletic ability and fails to

consider individual circumstances.

But supporters of the law say transgender athletes have inherent advantages and compromise fairness in girls’ sports.

There have been few cases of potential competitive advantages in K-12 sports in Utah and in other states passing similar bans.

With the ban on hold, a back-up plan for vetting transgender athletes has been met with similar criticism.

A commission of politically appointed experts from the athletic and medical fields can now decide on a case-by-case basis whether a transgender athlete’s participation compromises fairness. Republican state lawmakers created the commission in another 2022 law as a fallback plan to be implemented in case of an injunction. The panel can review a child’s height and weight and whether they are taking puberty blocking drugs or hormones, which some critics say crosses a line. AP A 12-YEAR-OLD transgender swimmer is seen waiting by a pool in a February 22, 2021 photo in Utah. AP

after spitting in the direction of a spectator he said was heckling him at his first-round match and $4,000 for cursing during a contentious third-rounder against Stefanos Tsitsipas, who accused him afterward of “bullying” and having “a very evil side.” During the event, word emerged from Australia that he was due in court to face an assault allegation; in February 2023, he escaped conviction on a charge of common assault after pleading guilty to shoving a former girlfriend in 2021.

The tennis season that just concluded began on a sour note for Kyrgios when he was forced to withdraw from the Australian Open in January because he needed arthroscopic knee surgery. He later dealt with a wrist problem.

Hours before he pulled out of Wimbledon in early July, Kyrgios was asked at a news conference whether he missed tennis during all of the time away.

“No, I don’t miss the sport at all, to be fair. I was almost dreading coming back a little bit,” he said.

“But it’s my job.” AP

A

THENS, Greece—A Greek policeman was severely injured late Thursday when a mob of volleyball fans poured out of an Athens arena and attacked riot police outside.

State ERT television said a flare shot by a rioter severed a thigh artery in the 30-year-old officer, who was reported in critical condition at a hospital.

The violence occurred during a volleyball match between crosstown rivals Olympiakos and Panathinaikos.

The game was abandoned when the fighting erupted outside the arena.

ERT said about 150 people left the arena

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HE Paris 2024 organizing committee president said Thursday he still wants the surfing competition at next year’s Olympics to take place in Tahiti despite the controversy surrounding the construction of the judging tower at the site, where coral has been damaged.

Speaking to local media Polynesie La Premiere, Tony Estanguet said he’s going to pour “all [his] energy” to keep the surfing in French Polynesia at the Tahiti site of Teahupo’o.

Because Teahupo’o’s surf breaks offshore, the Olympic judges have to be out in the lagoon. Organizers intend to install them and television cameras on an aluminum tower that will be attached to the reef.

That plan has sparked protests in Tahiti, with critics fearing for coral and other marine life. That criticism reached another level last week after coral was damaged when organizers tried to test out a barge used to build the tower in the surfing lagoon, leading local authorities to halt the construction.

“We need to find a solution to respect environment,” Estanguet said.

“As organizers, we need to adapt.”

Critics on the island have voiced fears for coral reefs, fish and other aquatic life when the tower’s foundations are drilled into the seabed and mounted on concrete.

Islanders pushed for the Olympics to use a wooden tower on existing foundations that have long been the setup for surfing competitions at Teahupo’o. They have collected more than 160,000 signatures with an online petition.

But Estanguet said the old judging tower does not meet Olympic standards for security reasons.

“We don’t want to compromise on safety—we won’t put anyone’s safety at risk,” Estanguet said.

He added that solutions will be find a way to let the barge access the site without damaging the coral reef.

Surfing’s governing body International Surfing Association (ISA) said it “was saddened and surprised to see that a test undertaken by the French Polynesian government resulted in the coral reef at Teahupo’o being damaged.”

ISA also welcomed the decision to pause all further testing and “urged intensified consultations to consider all available options.”

The French towns of Lacanau and La Torche in continental France have both proposed to host the Games’ surfing events if the Tahiti site is finally abandoned. Estanguet said it’s not an option for now.

“As a partner of the Polynesian government I want to put all my energy...to find the best solutions so we can have the surfing events in Tahiti,” Estanguet said. “We still have a bit of time to find another technical solution to have this tower installed while respecting the environment.

This is the priority we all share.”

For France, the Tahitian venue will allow the host country to highlight its long historical ties to the Pacific and involve its far-off overseas territories in the Summer Games.

But the faraway Tahiti venue has also raised logistical and environmental questions because the rest of the Summer Games are focused in the host city, Paris, nearly 16,000 kilometers (10,000 miles) and 10 time zones away. AP

Even in volleyball... during the game to attack riot police stationed outside with flares, gasoline bombs and stones, and then returned to the venue.

Police made heavy use of tear gas, much of which wafted into the indoor sports ground. Officers also prevented spectators from leaving the arena amid efforts to identify the person who fired the flare.

Security had been high for the game as the two clubs’ supporters have a history of intense rivalry.

Greek soccer is plagued by endemic fan violence, which often spreads to other sports in which the main clubs field teams, such as basketball and volleyball. AP

BusinessMirror

December 10, 2023

How did St. Nicholas inspire the Santa Claus legend?

BusinessMirror

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DECEMBER 10, 2023

YOUR MUSI

LAY ZHANG (PHOTO FROM LAY’S INSTAGRAM)

WORTH THE WAIT Lay Zhang returns to thrill Manila fans anew

LAY ZHANG poses for a photo with his fans during the fan meeting and listening party at Teatrino at Promenade in Greenhills Shopping Center on December 4. (PHOTO COURTESY OF WARNER MUSIC PHILIPPINES)

By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

H

ELLO, Philippines, XBacks, and EXO-Ls!” said the Chinese pop sensation Zhang Yixing, known as Lay, to his patient Filipino fans when he saw them again after 10 years.

Lay returned to Manila for his free intimate fan

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LAY ZHANG waves to his Filipino fans (PHOTO BY REINE ALBERTO)

LAY ZHANG sings “Boom” to his fans at the fan meeting (PHOTO BY REINE ALBERTO)

meeting and listening party organized by Warner Music Philippines at Teatrino at Promenade in Greenhills Shopping Center on December 4.

“Since I first came here, it has been 10 years.

I miss you guys,” Lay fondly told his fans during the fan meeting.

The first and last time Lay came to the Philippines was in 2013 at the Dream K-pop Fantasy Concert where all the “OT12” members of EXO performed songs from Mama, their first mini album, and an iconic rendition of Yeng Constantino’s “Hawak Kamay.”

The rapper, singer-songwriter, dancer, actor, and producer debuted in 2012 as one of the 12 members of the phenomenal South KoreanChinese boy group EXO and its sub-unit EXO-M under SM Entertainment.

In 2016, he pursued a solo career (he’s still a member of EXO, btw!) and released his first EP, Lose Control, which peaked at No. 4 on Billboard’s US World Albums charts. He is also the first Chinese solo artist to be included in the Top 25 on the Billboard 200 and Top 5 on the Worldwide iTunes Album Chart.

‘I’m Back’

TWO hundred twenty lucky fans picked out of the more than 20,000 who registered for the event, lined up early in the morning and waited eagerly for Lay. So when the countdown started, the small but intimate venue was filled with excited screams.

Lay entered the stage and sang his songs “Boom”

and “Right Back” while playing the keyboard.

“Boom” was sung in a slower version which Lay explained: “I want you guys to feel the song, the emotion, to feel my love.”

He also shared that when he was interviewed by a Filipino reporter, he was told that there were so many fans waiting for him in the Philippines.

“So right now, I’m here. I’m back!” he said to the crowd.

That’s also why he chose to sing “Right Back,” he said, adding, “Hope you guys [will] be my right back.

Just like the lyrics said, I’m always here if you want.”

The Philippines is the first stop in Lay’s Asia fan meeting and listening party.

Catching up with Lay

IN the question-and-answer segment, Lay was asked about his goals for next year. A fan shouted “Get married!” to which Lay replied, “With who?”

The crowd answered back, “Me!” After thinking about his goals, he said he wants to come to the Philippines more often. “It took me 10 years, please.”

When asked if there’s a genre that he hasn’t done yet that he wants to do in his upcoming release, Lay said, “I want to try some Afrobeats.”

On what keeps him motivated in doing the things he loves, Lay said it’s his fans “because fans love, support and give me the power and energy to keep the motivation in everything.”

“And also, I love my job,” Lay added, and when

his fans told him they didn’t love their job, he said, “Give up!” and laughed. “I think if you love your job, career, and boss, then you will get more money.”

Picking one more question, Lay was asked if he still has dreams he hasn’t pursued and is looking forward to.

He then turned to his fans for suggestions on who he should work with within the Philippines.

The fans were quick to shout various actors, artists, and bands namely Sarah Geronimo, Al James, Moira dela Torre, Lola Amour, and more.

At the end of the segment, the fans sang “Right Back” to Lay and presented the video they prepared for him that contains clips of their appreciation and support for Lay through the years as well as messages from fans who weren’t able to join the fan meeting.

New songs, coming back soon

LAY’S Filipino fans are indeed the luckiest because they got to hear his new songs during the listening party.

Although just snippets of his new songs “Psychic” and “Step” were shared with the fans, the fact that they were the first to hear those songs was enough and got them more excited for the full versions.

Lay promised that these songs would be released “as soon as possible,” during the first half of 2024.

As for his solo concert GRANDLINE 3, he also made a pact with his fans that he would bring it to Manila in 2024.

“I fulfilled the promise, right?” he asked, pertaining to the promise he made of coming back to the Philippines.

Talking more about his direction, Lay said he wants to put some Chinese elements such as culture and language into his music.

“In the future, I think culture can cross country to country, languages, and interact, me and you, culture to culture,” he said.

For his final message, Lay said to his fans, “Keep healthy and stay with me until the end.”

Indeed, good things come to those who wait.

For XBacks and EXO-Ls (like myself), Lay Zhang was definitely worth the wait.

IC

soundstrip.businessmirror@gmail.com | DECEMBER 10, 2023

BUSINESS

GIFT-WRAPPED

3

Spotify 2023 Wrapped

Filipino bands reign in Spotify PHL’s year in review

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By Reine Juvierre Alberto

“Honestly, the farther we go with our journey in music, we realize that more than the music itself, it is the stories and experiences that bind us together,” said Ben&Ben’s lead vocalist Paolo Benjamin Guico on what keeps them going.

Co-lead vocalist Miguel Benjamin Guico also talked about their hopes for Filipino music to grow and reach out to the rest of the world. “We envision music written and produced by Filipinos and performed by Filipinos, and most importantly, music that tells stories from the Philippines.”

Retaining his hold as this year’s Top Male Artist is Zack Tabudlo at the No. 1 spot and with him on the list are Pinoy rappers Flow G (No. 4) and Al James (No. 5) who entered the chart and paved the way for the growing popularity of the Pinoy hip-hop scene.

Moira dela Torre also maintains her hold as this year’s Top Female Artist, followed by mrld at No. 2 who is also No. 1 in the Top RADAR Philippines Artist. DEMI, a Filipina R&B singer, topped the list of local artists featured in EQUAL Philippines, Spotify’s gender equity program amplifying women creators and their music.

T’S that time of the year again to look back on the songs, artists, and podcasts you listened to in 2023.

Swedish audio streaming giant Spotify unveiled its annual Wrapped, a personalized year in review of their users’ listening experience, packaged with new interactive features to see what, who, and how they listened to on the app.

In Philippines’ 2023 Wrapped, Zambales-based rock band SunKissed Lola’s “Pasilyo” is the No. 1 most streamed track in the Philippines, with Baguio-based Dilaw’s “Uhaw (Tayong Lahat)” in the second spot.

Following the two Filipino rock bands’ success are worldwide hits by women, namely Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer” at No. 3 and SZA’s “Kill Bill” (No. 4) and “Snooze” (No. 5).

SunKissed Lola shared that the year 2023 has been “life-changing” for them, and they went beyond composing and producing songs in the studio to play in front of a jam-packed crowd while getting streamed on Spotify as well.

“Through ‘Pasilyo,’ we hope it inspires that endearing feeling of being someone’s special one, especially in a world of uncertainties,” the band added.

For this year’s most streamed local tracks, “Pasilyo” and “Uhaw (Tayong Lahat)” remained at the first and second spot, followed by Adie’s “Mahika” at No. 3, Calein’s “Umaasa” (No. 4) and “Raining in Manila” by Lola Amour (No. 5).

Taylor Swift is undeniably the Philippines’ Top Artist of the Year, followed by The Weeknd at No. 2, female singers Ariana Grande (No. 3) and SZA (No. 4), and completing the list is the Filipino folk-pop band Ben&Ben (No. 5).

This year’s Top Local Artist is still Ben&Ben for the fifth consecutive year, while Zack Tabudlo comes next at No. 2, followed by Adie (No. 3), Moira dela Torre (No. 4), and Arthur Nery (No. 5).

Ben&Ben bags Spotify Philippines Top Local Artist Award

SunKissed Lola’s debut single “Pasilyo” is the Philippines Top Song of the Year for 2023.

Slater Young receives award as skypodcast bags Philippines Top Podcast of the Year

From music to programs

Juan Karlos giving all the “feels” as he performs his record-breaking hit single “Ere.”

AN audio podcast platform featuring different stories from pop culture to romance to horror, Spotify’s Top Podcast of the Year is Slater Young and Kryz Uy’s skypodcast, followed by Barangay Love Stories (No. 2), Hugot Marcelo (No. 3), Dear MOR (No. 4), and Kwentong Takipsilim Pinoy Tagalog Horror Stories Podcast (No. 5).

“We are humbled to be able to connect with many listeners. It keeps us inspired to keep on pushing and maintain authenticity,” said Kryz Uy. Her husband and co-creator Slater Young added: “Our conversations on the skypodcast are raw and unfiltered. It’s the type that you would normally have with your close friends, allowing us to relate to our listeners on a truly personal level.”

Queerfully Yours and Gift Podcast, meanwhile, ranked amongst the Philippines’ Top New Podcasts of 2023.

“We were hoping that our stories would allow people to better understand what it was like for four queer guys growing up. We are grateful for all the support, we feel seen and it truly means the world for all of us. For aspiring podcasters, know your truth and live with it — your work will find its way to people who need it,” said the queens behind Queerfully Yours on this opportunity to represent the LGBTQIA+ community.

Wrapped IRL

SPOTIFY wrapped the year by bringing together artists, content creators, and music enthusiasts in It’s Been Real 2023 at the Corner House in San Juan City on November 30. juan karlos rocked the party and got everyone singing along to his viral hit “Buwan” and breakout single “Ere,” which is the first Filipino song to debut on the Spotify Global chart.

Celebrating the music and conversations that shaped the year in listening for Filipinos, Spotify unveiled the Philippines’ Top Artists, Songs, and Podcasts for 2023.

How did St. Nicholas inspire the Santa Claus legend? half of wrongly condemned prisoners and miraculously saved sailors from storms.

One of the most famous legends, Ayo said, features the aging father of three young women who didn’t have means to pay for their dowry. St. Nicholas is said to have thrown gold pieces into the man’s window.

“It is the quintessential Nicholas,” Ayo writes. “It requires no miracle, no credulity from the hearer, and no superstition at any level. What is needed is only a generous heart ready to give of his wealth in a self-effacing way that others may come to know a deep love in their life.”

By Luis Andres Henao The Associated Press

N

EW YORK—The white-bearded Christian saint whose acts of generosity inspired America’s secular Santa Claus figure is known worldwide, but Saint Nicholas’ origin story is not.

The legends surrounding jolly old St. Nicholas go way beyond delivering candy and toys to children.

St. Nicholas was a fourth century Christian bishop from the Mediterranean port city of Myra (in modern-day Turkey).

“Much of the rest is legend. There’s not really a lot of hard historical evidence about St. Nicholas,” said the Rev. Nicholas Ayo, author of Saint Nicholas in America: Christmas Holy Day and Holiday.

But whether the stories are true is not so much the point, said Ayo, an 89-yearold retired Notre Dame University professor named after St. Nicholas. “There’s no Santa Claus that lands on the roof, but there’s a desire in people’s heart for an unconditional love that doesn’t depend on your behavior, but the fact that you’re somebody’s child.”

Devotion to St. Nicholas—also referred to as St. Nick—spread during the Middle Ages across Europe and he became a favorite subject for medieval artists and liturgical plays, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica.

How did St. Nicholas inspire America’s Santa Claus figure?

Approximately 200 local employees dressed in Santa Claus costumes parade in the festive atmosphere through the Marunouchi district in Tokyo on December 22, 2017. AP He is the patron saint of Greece and Russia, Moscow and New York, as well as charities, children and pawnbrokers.

He also is the patron saint of sailors. In 1807, Italian sailors took the remains of St. Nicholas from Myra to the seaport of Bari, on the southeast coast of the boot of Italy. They built a church in his honor; relics believed to be his are kept in the Bari’s 11th century basilica of San Nicola.

When is St. Nicholas Day celebrated?

St. Nicholas Day is celebrated every year on

December 6, typically by filling the stockings and shoes children leave out overnight with sweets and toys. It also is a fitting date for the patron saint of sailors.

“The December feast day of Saint Nicholas coincides with the beginning of the winter storm season on the Mediterranean,” Ayo writes.

What are the legends of St. Nicholas?

Legends surrounding St. Nicholas’ generosity appear in texts ranging from medieval manuscripts to modern-day poems, including how he interceded on be-

Devotion to St. Nicholas seems to have faded after the 16th century Protestant Reformation, except in the Netherlands where his legend remained as Sinterklaas.

In the 17th century, Dutch Protestants who settled in New York brought the Sinterklaas tradition with them.

“The Dutch had St. Nicholas on the bow of the first ship that went into New York harbor,” Ayo said. Eventually, St. Nicholas morphed into the secular Santa Claus.

Artist Thomas Nast, an engraver in Morristown, New Jersey, who illustrated the front cover of Harper’s magazine for many years, played a key role in the transformation, Ayo said.

“He followed the description of Santa Claus or Saint Nicholas—and Clement Clarke Moore’s ‘Twas the Night before Christmas’ poem,” Ayo says. “So, that’s how that got changed. But in Europe, the bishop shows up in bishop’s clothing at the door sometimes.”

Cover photo by Laura James on Pexels.com

Sharing the joy in the everyday with a grand seasonal celebration

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lobal apparel retailer UNIQLO presented customers with a grand holiday festivity with their recent Tree Lighting Celebration at East B Parking Lot, 9th Avenue cor. 30th Street, Bonifacio Global City. It was a well-rounded kick-off to the holiday season, featuring the lighting of the larger-than-life UNIQLO Holiday tree, special treats from UNIQLO’s holiday partners, and memorable live performances from iconic local acts Jose Marie Chan and Ben&Ben. A live choir set the night’s holiday mood as the Quezon City Performing Arts Development Foundation Inc. serenaded the crowd composed of UNIQLO’s community partners, influencers, and customers.

UNIQLO Philippines Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia then joined the celebrations to underscore the true meaning of the

holidays, along with the company’s call to find joy in the everyday. Meanwhile, UNIQLO Vice President for Marketing Georgette Jalasco discussed the value of sustainability and being part of the community. Customers are encouraged to take part in UNIQLO’s global clothing donation drive by donating their pre-loved LifeWear pieces at any UNIQLO store nationwide. These items are then distributed to people in need.

Sia and Jalasco, along with UNIQLO Chief Operating Officer Ikezoe Osamu, shared the stage with special performers Jose Mari Chan and Ben&Ben in lighting up the UNIQLO Holiday Tree. It featured images of UNIQLO customers taken at the Holiday Nook displayed at the company’s Global Flagship Store in Glorietta 5 and online entries.

With the UNIQLO holiday tree lit up and reflected on the smiles of the guests, Jose

4 BusinessMirror

UNIQLO lights up the sky with its larger-than-life holiday tree at Bonifacio Global City December 10, 2023

Mari Chan and Ben & Ben delivered special performances. The two musical acts collaborated to perform the new UNIQLO Christmas Jingle live.

To help customers this holiday season, UNIQLO, along with Jose Mari Chan and Ben&Ben, also curated gift suggestions in a special Holiday Gift Guide that presents something for everyone, perfect for this season of giving.

With just a few weeks remaining before Christmas, make sure to visit UNIQLO and find the right pieces for the people you love.

Not sure yet what items to shop for this season? Get inspired by the UNIQLO Holiday Gift Guide with its curated selection of essentials for everybody. Know more by visiting www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/ and follow @ uniqlo.ph on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram.