Couples under legal age will not be allowed to check in at hotels, inns and other accommodations in today’s celebration of Valentine’s Day.
An advocacy group has expressed alarm over the increasing number of Filipino children getting exposed to various threats on the internet, particularly sexual abuse or exploitation.
dation establishments in Davao City not to admit minors in their establishments today.
Hospitality establishments are usually overwhelmed with patrons on Valentine’s Day.
“Gina-intensify nato ang atoang monitoring ug patrolling sa mga areas
kung asa nagalaag, kasagaran sa mga areas nga naga date like parks, restaurants, tourist spots ug inns. Sa mga inns gi-coordinate na nato ang mga station commanders nga mag-remind sa mga establishment owners na dili pasudlon ang mga minors. Ang mga
At the online launch of “Web Safe & Wise Campaign” on Friday , Allan Nuñez, advocacy specialist for ChildFund Philippines, said the country is known as a “global epicenter” of the Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC).
He said the production of images of sexual abuse and exploitation has significantly increased in the country. At least 600,000 images and videos of naked, sexualized, and abused
Filipino children were uploaded, shared and sold online in 2018, he said.
He noted that this number significantly increased by 256% during the COVID-19 pandemic as most children spent more time on the internet due to lockdowns and schools shifted to online classes.
He said spending more time in the online environment during the pandemic was a “perfect trap” set up by people who took advantage of the situation to victimize more children in the country.
The pandemic lockdowns started in March 2020. Face-to-face classes resumed only late last year. Anand Vishwakarma,
FMORE, P10
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go continues to bring government services closer to the people while pushing for legislative measures geared towards promoting their welfare as he attended this year’s Rotary Concerns Forum (ROTACON) on Saturday, February 11, at the Acacia Hotel in Davao City.
“Ang trabaho po namin
bilang senador ay legislation, constituency, and representation. Hindi ko po matiis na nakaupo lang po sa malamig na opisina habang ‘yung mga kababayan natin ay naghihirap. Dapat po tayong nasa gobyerno ang lumapit po sa ating mga kababayan lalung-lalo na po ‘yung mga mahihirap,” Go highlighted in his speech.
During the event, Go commended the Rotary for its tireless efforts in serving the country. The forum is an annual gathering of Rotary senior leaders in the Philippines composed mostly of past, present, and future governors from ten districts in the country.
“I believe it is our responsibility to work to-
Medical practitioners of the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) are stepping up its cancer awareness campaign in line with the celebration of the National Cancer Awareness
Month this February.
Caravan”.
By MAYA M. PADILLONot taking any chances, the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) is bringing in its maximum strength for the much-awaited Araw ng Davao celebration.
DCPO spokesperson
The SPMC Cancer Institute in cooperation with the city government of Davao and the Department of Health (DOH) has lined up activities for the celebration:
Dr. Mae Dolendo, pediatric oncology and head of the SPMC cancer care committee, said public awareness is important for the prevention of cancer and what is available in terms of diagnosis, treatment, and knowledge not only pediatric but also adult cancers.
February 13
- Sa Tamang Kaalaman, Kanser ay Maiiwasan - advocacy media tour; February 14-Fighting the Big C with evidence-based decision-making forum (Cancer Research in SPMC);
February 15- International Childhood Cancer Awareness Day Celebration;
February 22- Sa Tamang Kaalaman, Kanser ay Maiiwasan - advocacy media tour; February 27-Virtual Oral Case Contest and Sa Tamang Kaalaman, Kanser ay Maiiwasan advocacy media tour; and February 28- SPMC Lumps and Bumps Caravan: TINGinTINGin, TANGTANG Bukol
“Ngano February ang National Cancer Awareness Month? This is very close to the heart of the Dabawenyos because we know that in 2019 the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICA) was signed by former president Rodrigo Duterte (NICA Law). This law merong implementing rules and regulation na February is going to be the National Cancer Awareness Month. In fact, February 14, 2019 was the time that the former president signed the NICA Law,” Dolendo said during Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao on Monday.
In 2019, the former president signed NICA into law, which will help supFSPMC, P10
Major Catherine dela Rey disclosed on Monday that the police has already organized the maximum deployment of the security forces in al locations and events in celebration of the city’s charter anniversary.
Dela Rey said for the Parada Dabawenyo, which is the highlight of the month-long activity, DCPO will be deploying 2,000
security forces wherein 1,000 personnel are from the PNP and 1,000 from the force multipliers.
“Overall para sa atong month-long activity, 80 percent sa whole DCPO ang atoang i-deploy for the activity. Nakahan-ay na siya ug naa tay pagahimoon nga send-off ceremony para sa maong deployment kay magstart na dayon ang mga activities sa March 1. Within that week naa dinha
ang Ironman and conventions sa mga prosecutors and justices. Daghan ang activity maong maximum deployment ang atoang pagahimoon,” dela Rey said over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on Monday.
The major highlight of this year’s celebration is the Parada Dabawenyo on March 18.
The other major events are the opening mass (Misa Pasasalamat) at San Pedro Cathedral and the opening program (Pasiugdang Pagsaulog) at Rizal Park on March 1; Hugyaw Dabaw (all-star variety show) at Rizal Park on
March 3; Araw ng Dabaw Music and Arts Festival at the Davao Coastal Road in Bago Aplaya on March 4; conferment of Datu Bago Awards at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on March 8; Araw ng Dabaw Cheerdance Competition at the Davao City Recreational Center on March 11; Araw ng Dabaw Sayaw Pinoy Folkdance Competition at SM City Davao on March 12; Reyna Dabawenya coronation night at the RMC Petro Gazz Arena on March 15; and Mutya ng Dabaw coronation night at the USEP Gymnasium on March 17.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. does not consider making amendments to the 1987 Constitution as one of the priorities of his administration.
“It’s not a priority for me because maraming ibang kailangang gawin (there’s still so much to do)…There are so many other things that we need to do first that we can achieve kung makukuha
naman natin ‘yung gusto (if we can get what we want) but within the way the constitution is written,” he said in a media interview on a plane en route to Manila on Sunday following his fiveday official trip to Japan.
However, he acknowledged the House of Representatives’ push for economic provisions in the 36-year-old Constitution to encourage investments that would stimulate eco-
nomic activities, create job opportunities, reduce poverty and lower the prices of goods and services.
“The reason that it’s being talked about is because of the economic provisions. Gusto nga natin magkaroon ng investment kung minsan sagabal. Alam naman ninyo ‘yung mga issue diyan (We want to have more investments and sometimes there are hurdles. You know the issues
there),” he said.
“But for me, lahat itong mga pinag-usapan kaya nating gawin na hindi palitan ang Saligang Batas (all of these are being talked about so we don’t need to amend the Constitution),” he added.
During the observance of Philippine Constitution Day last Feb. 8, Marcos said the 1987 Constitution remains “dynamic” and FCHARTER, P10
Motorists will get a slight reprieve starting Tuesday, as oil firms announced another round of rollbacks to mark the second straight week of cuts in pump prices in petroleum products.
In separate advisories, Chevron Philippines Inc. (Caltex), Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. and Seaoil Philippines Corp. said they will reduce prices per liter of diesel by P2.20 and kerosene by P2.50,
while keeping gasoline prices unchanged.
Cleanfuel, and Petro Gazz, which do not carry gasoline, will implement the same adjustments. The adjustments will
take effect at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, February 14 for all the firms except for Caltex and Cleanfuel which will adjust prices earlier at 12:01 a.m. the same day.
The latest changes come after firms last week cut down prices per liter of gasoline by P2.10, diesel by P3.00, and kerosene by P2.30.
Oil companies usually announce price adjust-
ments every Monday, to be implemented on the following day. Other firms have yet to make similar announcements.
Latest data available from the Department of Energy (DOE) show that year-to-date net increases stood at P5.10 per liter for gasoline, P0.05 per liter for diesel, and P2.25 per liter for kerosene as of February 7, 2023.
Total motor vehicle sales opened the year with a decline from the record seen in December 2022 but with a double-digit growth from January 2022, data released by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) on Monday.
Joint data from CAMPI and TMA indicated total sales for the month at 29,499 units or 20.8% lower than the record 37,258 seen in December, but it’s 42.1% higher than the 20,765 units in January 2022.
“The auto industry is optimistic [about] its continued expansion from the
demand-side standpoint driven by the growing domestic consumer market,” CAMPI President Atty. Rommel Gutierrez said in an emailed statement.
“On the other hand, the supply-side challenges are also an important factor that the industry is mindful of, as this may hamper the industry
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on Monday said the government’s Value Added Tax (VAT) refund for foreign tourists program, which President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced should be in place by 2024, must be legislated and should only cover goods.
the country within 60 days from the date of purchase.
The legislation must also state that the total value of goods purchased must at least be P2,000.
growth,” he added. Broken down, passenger car sales accounted for 7,506 units, commercial vehicle sales for 21,993 units, Asian utility vehicles (AUVs) with 4,587 units, light commercial vehicles (LCVs) with 16,757 units, Light Trucks with 370 units, and trucks and buses with 279.
Lawyer Brianna Kay delos Santos, section chief of the BIR’s Law and Legislative Division, told lawmakers during a House hearing that the Finance Department is recommending a legislation that includes a provision stating that a tourist will be eligible for VAT refund on goods purchased in the Philippines provided that such goods are shipped or taken out of
The BIR, however, clarified that such threshold should be reasonably adjusted to an amount that would sufficiently cover the cost of administering the refund, as determined by the Secretary of Finance upon recommendation of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue.
The BIR also wanted a tourist covered by this law to be defined as a “foreign individual who is not not a resident of nor engaged in trade or business in the Philippines and who comes to the country for travel, FVAT, P10
PresidentFerdinand Marcos Jr. said on Sunday the ratification of the Philippines’ participation in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is necessary for access to global markets.
The Philippines is looking at modernizing the agriculture sector and seeking a whole-of-society approach to combat the continuous increase in consumer prices, with inflation the highest among ASEAN countries in January.
Inflation hit a fresh 14-year-high of 8.7% in January, the fastest since the 9.1% recorded in November 2008. The acceleration was attributed to higher prices of housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels.
The country’s latest inflation rate outpaced other ASEAN countries that have reported data so far - Indonesia was at 5.28%, Thailand at 5.02%, and Vietnam was at 4.89%.
“The thrust to improve productivity in the agriculture sector and ensure energy security will help stabilize inflation moving forward,” Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said in a statement.
Diokno said the government would also continue the distribution of organic
and bio-N fertilizers, quality seeds, seedlings, farm production, and post-harvest machinery and equipment.
Whole-of-society approach
According to National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, the government was looking at a whole-of-society approach in modernizing agriculture and agribusinesses.
Balisacan said the government and the private sector needed to work hand-in-hand to enhance the efficiency of agriculture, forestry, and fisheries in production.
“A robust and resilient agriculture is vital to ensuring that we have enough supply of food and to keeping food prices stable, especially as we continue to face global headwinds and are exposed to natural hazards. Importantly, it serves as foundation for a strong economy, as agricultural products move up the value chain,” he said in a separate
This was after some lawmakers expressed apprehensions by saying that the government should make sure first that the country is resilient enough to handle internal and external shocks.
The Senate is still deliberating whether to ratify
the RCEP agreement.
“Right now, kung wala tayo sa RCEP, hindi natin maa-access ang kanilang mga market, lalo na iyon supply chain na available na binibigay ngayon sa Asya,” the President stressed in an interview on board a chartered plane to the Philip-
pines after his 5-day working visit to Japan.
(Right, now if we don’t have RCEP, we wont be able to access their markets, especially the supply chain available to Asia)
“All our markets that are mentioned in RCEP are already open, walang mabubuksan na bago. Nabubuksan lang, para sa ‘kin ay to the advantage of the Philippines, dahil iyong mga supply nga, the supply chains, the different non-traditional suppliers of agricultural inputs, of
agricultural commodities ay pwede natin access iyon. Without RCEP, we cannot do that,” he said.
(What will be open, which I think is to the advantage of the Philippines, are the supply chains, the different non-traditional suppliers of agricultural inputs, of agricultural commodities, we can access that.)
Facing the Philippine Business Opportunities Forum in Tokyo, the President reiterated that his
AirAsia Philippines said on Monday it is offering a P1 fare promo ahead of the anticipated summer season in the country.
Passengers can book P1 flights from Feb. 13 to 19 to select destinations such as Cagayan De Oro, Boracay, Davao, Kalibo and Puerto Princesa, the airline said in a statement.
Meanwhile, internation-
al flights to Taipei, Macao, Hong Kong, Seoul, Singapore, Bangkok, Osaka, and Tokyo are available for as low as P911, it added.
Travel period for promotional flights is from Feb. 13 to Nov. 30, 2023, AirAsia said.
“We are known for democratizing air travel having pioneered low-cost travel in Asia. But we are more than just that. We know a
lot has changed since the pandemic and we are humbled to continue winning for our guests. They remain our inspiration, and we will make sure to make things happen for them, be it their summer plans or meaningful reunions with family and friends,” AirAsia Philippines Chief Executive Officer Ricky Isla said.
As of Feb, 13, AirAsia
Philippines said it is operating daily flights from Manila to Bacolod, Cebu, Cagayan, Davao, Iloilo, Kalibo, Caticlan (Boracay), Puerto Princesa, Tacloban, Tagbilaran, and Zamboanga. Other inter-island destinations flying out of its Cebu hub include Cagayan, Davao, Caticlan, Puerto Princesa and Clark, the airline said.
On the measure establishing the Philippine Center
Control and Prevention: “As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, one of my priorities is to make our healthcare system better prepared to respond to future public health crises. Aside from capacitating our health facilities, it is my firm belief that we need a sole agency focused on the prevention and containment of infectious diseases in light of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
SENATOR BONG GO
“Love is useless unless it is shared with another. Indeed, no man is an island.”
This pronouncement in the case of Chi Ming Tsoi vs. Lao- Tsoi (GR No. 119190, 16 January 1997) is one of the Supreme Court decisions often quoted on the subject of love.
The Supreme Court stressed that “an expressive interest in each other’s feelings at a time it is needed by the other can go a long way in deepening the relationship.” I first read the case as a law student at the University of the Philippines.
“If the two eventually fell in love, despite the disparity in their ages and academic levels, this only lends substance to the truism that the heart has reasons of its own which reason does not know”, says the Court on a case involving a 30-yearold teacher who was fired for marrying her 16-year-old student.” (Chua-Qua vs Tay Tung High School, G.R. No. 49549 August 30, 1990)
“Individuals who are in love had the power to let love grow or let love die – it is a choice one had to face when love is not the love one expected.” (Padilla-Rumbaua v. Rumbaua, G.R. No. 166738, August 14, 2009)
“There can be no love where respect is gone.” (People vs. Rivera Nov. 17, 1999)
“Litigation to the sorrows caused by a broken heart and a broken promise must be discouraged.” (Guevarra v. Banach, G.R. No. 214016, November 24, 2021)
The Court also underscored in People v. Bautista (G.R. No. 140278, June 3, 2004) that “love is not a license for lust”.
Love indeed is the highest law of all.
But for members for legal profession, love has to be held in abeyance if the other party is a client.
A lawyer might soon be prohibited from romantic entanglements with a client if the proposed revisions in the 34-year-old Code of Professional Responsibility (CPR) will take effect.
The prohibition is indicated in proposed Section 15 which states :” A lawyer shall not have dating, romantic, or sexual relations with a client during the engagement, unless the consensual relationship existed between them before the lawyer-client relationship commenced.”
Updating the 34-year old CPR is in line with the Supreme
Court’s rule that possession of good moral character is both a condition precedent and a continuing requirement to warrant admission to the Bar and to retain membership in the legal profession.
“We want to be very clear that the lawyer-client relationship can clearly define what are your duties and what are your responsibilities. We don’t want any dating or romantic factor to blur these lines,” Associate Justice Maria Filomena Singh said in an interview.
The proposal earned different reactions from a Facebook lawyer’s group: “Sorry It is not you it is my profession.”; “Sign this motion to withdraw appearance please”; “I don’t need love, I need cash. I am sorry”; “When both are in love there is no illegality”; and “Execute a waiver and quit claim with affidavit of desistance.”.
Violation of said provision may lead to disciplinary proceedings whose purposes are to protect the public, to foster public confidence in the Bar, to preserve the integrity of the profession, and to deter other lawyers from similar misconduct.
The Supreme Court in cases involving illicit relationships
The doctrinal differences between the Catholic faith and Protestantism during American rule sparked numerous controversies that, as expected, dragged the government into the pic-ture, largely to resolve certain denominational issues.
Two of these incidents were cited by Jesuit priest Fr. Raimundo Peruga in a letter dated August 10, 1913, datelined Davao and addressed to Fr. Saturnino Urios, S.J., the Mission Superior in Manila.
The first case is the protest against the Protestant practice of street-preaching in the mar-ketplace that enraged Fr. Miguel Alaix, a Jesuit priest. The preacher was a Filipino pastor who made it a habit to address in the area on Sundays, which the priest regarded as “illegal abuse.” As a resort, Fr. Juan Re-
bull, another Jesuit, reported the incident to the district gover-nor who acted on it in favor of the Catholic missionary.
But the American pastor in Davao City, thinking the prohibition was restricted only to Filipino Protestant ministers, took over the Sunday chores, but the authorities ordered him to withdraw from the scene. But the pastor argued his case, saying he was already doing street-preaching for a decade and nobody raised a howl against it and against him.
But the authorities explicitly told him that the market is a government property and only the administration has the right to do what it sees fit when it comes to the disposal of its assets. With that, the Sunday religious ritual at the marketplace stopped for good.
penalized the erring lawyers either by suspension or disbarment, depending on the circumstances of the case.
In case of suspension, the period would range from one year to indefinite suspension.
Disbarment is imposed where the misconduct and unrepentant demeanor shows a serious flaw in his character and the outright defiance of established norms, including the moral indifference to the sanctity of marriage and marital vows.
The conduct complained of must not only be immoral, but must be grossly immoral.
Disbarment were imposed by the Supreme Court on several cases as the conduct put the legal profession in disrepute and place the integrity of the administration of justice in peril.
In Toledo v. Toledo (117 Phil. 768), and Hosoya v. Contado, (AC No. 10731, October 5, 2021), the Supreme Court disbarred lawyers who had abandoned their respective wives and families and cohabited with another with whom they had children.
In Obusan v. Obusan Jr. (213 Phil. 437), the lawyer had aban-
Fr. Peruga rationalized that the street and plaza do not belong to the government but to the public, and that “even if preaching on government property is illegal, it will not be in the streets and squares.” Under the law at the time, religious worship was to be done in private.
But Fr. Rebull argued that even if a license was granted to street preachers, he would still raise a protest against it with the higher authority.
Today, street preaching, almost an exclusive domain of non-Catholic denominations, is publicly allowed. Whether in bus terminals, road junctions, public markets, sidewalks, mobile busses, public squares, or commercial intersections, the spectacle of pastors intensely preach-ing the Gospel has become a common sight.
In another incident, which took place in Davao a day before Fr. Peruga wrote the letter to Fr. Urios, the clash of two denominations was about the authority of religious sacraments.
The son of Prudencio Garcia, the former governor of Surigao and once the commander of the Spanish constabulary in Mati City, died at the Davao Mission Hospital along Magallanes Street, Davao City. Before he died, he received the sacraments of Extreme Unction (Anoint-ing of the Sick) and Viaticum (the Eucharist as given to a person near death) four times, ob-viously administered by Fr. Rebull, a Spanish Catholic priest from the nearby San Pedro Church.
Despite receiving the last rites under a Catholic cleric, a group of people Fr. Peruga called as ‘the heretics…wanted to seize
doned the wife and maintained an adulterous relationship with a married woman.
In Cojuangco v. Palma (481 Phil. 646), the lawyer abandoned his lawful wife and three children, lured an innocent woman into marrying him and misrepresented himself as a “bachelor” so he could contract marriage in a foreign land.
In Dantes v. Dantes, (482 Phil. 64) the lawyer maintained illicit relationships with two different women during the subsistence of his marriage to his legal wife.
In Villatuya v. Tabalingcos, (676 SCRA 37), the lawyer entered into marriage twice while his first marriage was still subsisting.
Extramarital affairs of lawyers are regarded as offensive to the sanctity of marriage, the family, and the community that blemish their ethics and morality.
(Peyups is the moniker of University of the Philippines. Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez. com, or call 09175025808 or 09088665786.)
and make the corpse their own.’ This unusual incident im-pelled Fr. Rebull to file a complaint before the municipal judge who promptly called a trial that lasted over two hours, with the contending parties arguing their respective cases.
The Catholic side was represented by two priests and two Brothers, while the Protestant side was represented by an American pastor and a number of his satellites, including the 16-year-old son of the deceased. “The session had several overtones, alternatives and accidents, already favorable or contrary to both parties,” Fr. Peruga wrote.
In the end, the judge (whose religious denomination was not mentioned) eventually de-cided in favor of the Catholics, ruling that the burial should be done under Catholic rites.
No doubt, Aeon Luxe Properties Incorporated (ALPI) is determined to make it big in 2023 not just in Davao City but in the neighboring regions.
On February 3, 2023, ALPI’s marketing and sales team embarked on a road-
show to progressive General Santos City.
Over 150 brokers and sellers attended the highly successful General Assembly held at the Pinoy Stars Convention Center.
Derrico Gabriel R. Diamante, ALPI Head of Marketing Communications, spearheaded the roadshow and officially opened the program. Diamante commended the Gensan Brokers and Sellers for their outstanding contribution to the company’s success. Team GenSan made P250 million sales last year and began the year with a whopping P82 million sales right in the first month of 2023 alone.
Associate Sales Director Chris Emmanuel Glaraga provided a brief overview of the company and its
project developments. He highlighted the Aeon Towers and Aeon Bleu real estate markets, showcasing the premium facilities and services offered by ALPI that make it an attractive investment opportunity for potential investors.
“Keep inviting clients and investors to visit Aeon and make condo investment as an option because we are ready to help and give them a potential return of investment,” Jester F. Hospital, ALPI Vice Pres-
ident for Sales and Marketing, encouraged brokers and sellers during his inspirational speech.
With a strong network of brokers and sellers in General Santos City, Aeon Luxe Properties Incorporated is well-positioned to continue its success.
The company is committed to creating landmarks in Davao and providing residents a premium standard of living, which translates to a higher occupancy rate for investors.
Grab Philippines celebrates friendship and the spirit of community this Valentine’s Day with the introduction of Grab BaeKada – a squad of friends ready to deliver extra happiness for Pinoys this Valentine’s Day. Headlining the Grab Baekada are leading social stars and real-life friends Benedict Cua, Marvin Fojas, Nana Silayro and Arshie Larga.
Valentine’s Day has long been a celebration of love between two people in a relationship.
However, as Grab aims to make every celebration more inclusive, the leading super app also invites all to celebrate the love of friends who were there to support those who aren’t as lucky in the hunt for love. Grab BaeKada represents every friend that helped us in loving ourselves first, before anyone else.
The leading super app also collaborated with the Grab BaeKada in curating special lists for the most relatable hugots of Pinoys today: Para sa Bulag sa Red Flag, Para sa Pinaasa, Para sa ‘Di Nireplyan, and
Para sa Nagpautang for Love. The in-app curated listings aim to make the food and grocery shopping experience on GrabFood and GrabMart much better and easier by featuring a wide selection of items for users celebrating the Love Month. The price of featured items on the lists starts from below Php 100 for sulit deal hunters!
To make love month food trips and shopping more affordable, Grab is also launching stackable promos on combo meals, delivery, and self-pick-up. Users can check out all available deals in the promo tab upon payment to avail of discounts that go up to Php 200.
Grab Philippines Director for Deliveries Greg Camacho shares:
“Grab is glad to spread happiness this Valentine’s Day. We all have our own BaeKadas who we turn to for nursing a broken heart and our own set of comfort food to help us move on and forward. This February, GrabFood and GrabMart – together with the Grab
BaeKada – are here to make sure all of us can celebrate Love Month, whether happy and contented, or may pinagdadaanan.”
Grab Philippines in-
OPPO today announced the arrival of the new OPPO Reno8 T in the Philippines. Equipped with an unprecedented 100MP Portrait Camera, a cutting-edge Fiberglass-Leather Design, 8GB RAM expandable by up to another 8GB, 256GB ROM and 48-Month Fluency Protection, the OPPO Reno8 T delivers all-round upgrades in a stylish device which ensures incredible experiences in both camera and entertainment while maintaining smooth performance at all times.
“We at OPPO are so excited to be introducing the latest addition to The Portrait Expert series, the OPPO Reno8 T,” shares Joanarc Sales, OPPO Philippines’ Head of CRM and Public Relations. “In keeping with our commitment to providing our users
vites every nabulag sa red flag, pina-asa, di’ na nirereplyan, and nagpautang for love to join in the fun on February 14 as the Grab Baekada does
a much-needed online get-together with all hugoteros and hugoteras via livestream! Happening from 7:00 p.m. on Marvin Fojas’ TikTok page, the
superior imaging and performance capabilities in our devices, the new OPPO Reno8 T is a breakthrough product that promises an extraordinary, all-round smartphone experience.”
Capture the World in Unprecedented Detail with the Upgraded 100MP Portrait Camera
The OPPO Reno8 T is the first Reno series phone to include a 100MP Portrait Camera, which is featured alongside a 32MP Selfie Camera and a 2MP Microlens with 20x or 40x magnification.
With the 100MP Portrait Camera, users can take high-quality portraits with more clarity and detail while enjoying the freedom to crop and enlarge photos to reimagine their images.
The Microlens of the OPPO Reno8 T also enables
users to capture surprising visual images usually hidden in plain sight through 40-times magnification, offering unprecedented access to microscopic photography capabilities.
A range of top-end imaging features such as AI Portrait Super Resolution, Bokeh Flare Portrait, Selfie HDR, AI Portrait Retouching, and Flash Snapshot are also included to empower users to capture the world fully through stunning, professional-quality portraits.
All-new Upgraded Design with a Premium Texture
Continuing the classic design elements of the Reno series, the OPPO Reno8 T introduces two fresh colors: Sunset Orange and Midnight Black.
Meanwhile, the Midnight Black edition features
a remodeled version of OPPO Glow that gives the handset a silky-smooth touch.
A decorative reflective ring has also been added to the camera module to create a shinier appearance that resembles stars twinkling in depths of the universe. In addition, the upgraded OPPO Orbit Light provides eight different notification settings which can be personalized with eight different colors.
OPPO Reno8 T boasts an Ultra-Slim Body Design with Midnight Black only 7.80mm thickness and weighs about 180 g, while Sunset Orange weighs about 183 g and has a thickness of 7.85mm.
Superior Performance for an All-round Smooth Experience
OPPO has completely
overhauled the performance of the Reno8 T and implemented multiple features to guarantee users a smoother experience for longer. Among these is the OPPO-developed Dynamic Computing Engine, which provides a smoother and more stable operating system to fundamentally improve the user experience. OPPO Labs have specifically tested the Reno8 T for 48-Month Fluency Protection to ensure it maintains a high degree of operating fluency even after four years of use.
With its high-capacity 5000mAh battery and 33W SUPERVOOCTM charging technology, Reno8 T can be charged from 0 to 100% in just 67 minutes or offers 2.01 hours talk with a 5-minute charge[1]. It comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB ROM as the standard specification with the option to expand up to 8GB more RAM using OPPO’s RAM Expansion technology.
Delivering exceptional visual entertainment on Reno8 T is a 6.4-inch AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate, while on the audio side, a Dual Stereo Speaker provides surround sound for a more immersive gaming and movie experience, with its built-in Ultra Volume Mode boosting the maximum volume by an additional 40%.
Convenience and Security in New ColorOS 13
Reno8 T is powered by the latest edition of ColorOS 13, which brings users even more smart features in a concise, convenient,
‘Grab BaeKada Live!’ will be an hour-long chikahan of besties with awesome prizes like vouchers, special kits, and packages awaiting participants!
and secured Android experience.
Users can now control Spotify from the Always-On Display, choosing to play or pause music, or select playlists from the recommendations section without unlocking the phone. Moreover, Screen Translate built with Google Lens can now translate the content of an entire screen in just one click from the sidebar menu, rather than having to switch between different apps manually.
A number of enhancements to security and privacy have been updated in the latest ColorOS 13. Auto Pixelate can automatically recognize and pixelate sensitive information on chat message screenshots with just one click, while the Private Safe has been refined to reduce the risk of losing or disclosing password-protected data.
Music All Around with the OPPO Enco Air 3
Along with the latest Portrait Expert, OPPO also introduces its new OPPO Enco Air 3, the perfect companion for a holistic entertainment experience. Feel sounds come to life with OPPO Alive Audio, which provides surround-sound quality. The lightweight earbuds also come in a trendy translucent jelly case, and are designed to be worn comfortably all day long. Users can connect seamlessly to two devices, including their new OPPO Reno8 T, thanks to Bluetooth 5.3, while also enjoying IP54 Water and Dust Resistance and up to 25 hours of battery life.
gether to address the challenges facing our society. Whether it be poverty, education, healthcare, peace and security, or the environment, it is only through collaboration and cooperation that we can find lasting solutions and create a brighter future for all Filipinos,” Go stressed while vowing to continue to advocate for people-centered measures that will bring the government closer to the people.
These include the continuing operations of Malasakit Centers and the establishment of more Super Health Centers nationwide.
Malasakit Centers are one-stop shops aimed at providing accessible and efficient financial and medical assistance to Filipinos. It was institutionalized through Republic Act No. 11463, which Go principally authored and sponsored in the Senate in 2019.
“Noong unang panahon, wala pang Malasakit Center. Lunes, pupunta po sila (Filipino patients and their families) sa city hall, hihingi ng tulong. Halimbawa, bibigyan ng PhP20,000 out of their PhP87,000 (hospital) bill. Martes po, pupunta sila sa PCSO, pipila po, hihingi ng tulong. Miyerkules, pupunta sila ng DOH. Huwebes, pupunta sila ng DSWD. Biyernes po, (pipila para i-process ang benepisyo mula) PhilHealth. Ubos ‘yung panahon nila, ubos pa ‘yung pamasahe sa kakapila po para humingi ng tulong,” noted Go.
“Sabi ko, bakit natin pahirapan ‘yung Pilipino, pera nila ‘yan na dapat po ibalik sa kanila sa pamamagitan ng mabilis na serbisyo,” he added.
Go mentioned that on February 10, he visited Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu City where the country’s first-ever Malasakit Center was constructed to commemorate the program’s fifth anniversary. There are now 154 of these centers all over the country.
According to the DOH, the Malasakit Centers have made it more accessible for poor and indigent Filipinos to avail of medical assistance from the government and has so far helped more than 7 million patients nationwide.
Meanwhile, Super Health Centers are medium-sized versions of a polyclinic and an improved version of the rural health unit. Services offered in Super Health Centers include database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and
treatment of patients will be done.
Through Go’s efforts, sufficient funds had been allocated under the 2022 Health Facilities Enhancement Program for the construction of some 307 Super Health Centers. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, he was likewise successful in pushing for additional funds under the 2023 budget to support the construction of 322 SHCs in other parts of the country.
As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go also shared some of his proposals to address gaps in the healthcare system. He filed Senate Bill No. 195 which seeks to establish the Philippine Center for Disease Control and Prevention; and SBN 196 which seeks to establish the Virology Science and Technology Institute of the Philippines; as well as SBN 1321 seeking to establish more specialty centers nationwide. These are among the legislative agenda contained in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Go also filed SBN 189 which proposes to provide free annual medical check-up to Filipinos; and SBN 190 which aims to increase the coverage of free dialysis treatments, among others.
To support the economy’s recovery, Go proposed SBN 1182 or the proposed Government Financial Institutions Unified Initiatives to Distressed Enterprises for Economic Recovery Act in a bid to strengthen the capacity of government financial institutions to provide financial assistance to micro, small, and medium enterprises.
He also introduced SBN 420 which aims to offer temporary employment to eligible members of low-income rural households who are ready to perform unskilled physical labor for a period of time.
The senator also proposed SBN 1184 and 1191 which seek to protect the welfare and interest of delivery service riders and seafarers, respectively. To protect media and entertainment workers, Go also filed SB 1183.
Recently, Go filed SBN 1705 which proposes to increase the service incentive leave of private sector employees. He also filed SBN 1707 which seeks to provide competitive compensation packages to social workers.
To foster a more proactive approach to natural disasters, Go continues to push for the passage of SBN 188 which seeks to establish the Department of Disaster Resilience; and SBN 193 which aims to mandate the construction of permanent, safe and properly equipped evacuation centers in every LGU.
Go then expressed his support for the Philip-
NO... FROM 2 station commanders na sa ilang AOR ang mag-coordinate ana nga mga establishments. Kabalo na sila kung asa nga mga areas sa ilahang AOR ang naay inns ug motels,” dela Rey said over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on Monday.
She reminded the management of the inns and accommodations to ask for IDs or any document to make sure that their clients are not minors.
“For the management, when in doubt pangayuan ug ID or any documents na magpatuod na dili siya minor or when in doubt ayaw na lang pasudla,” she said.
Meanwhile, the DCPO and various police stations
country director of Childfund Philippines, said “Websafe and Wise” is a global effort headed by Childfund Alliance to” build an accessible, safe, and exclusive digital world for children and youth.”
Nuñez said the group was also alarmed that household members who are “economically burdened” have been forced to sexually exploit or abuse the children in exchange for money.
He said the “Web Safe & Wise Campaign” was launched to educate stakeholders in the private sector, particularly the media, to contribute to efforts in eliminating online threats against children.
“Every child in the Philippines should enjoy a safer and better digital environment free from all forms of online abuse and exploitation and violence,” he stressed.
Around half of the 44 million Filipino internet users are children aged 17 years old and below, he added.
Nuñez said there is a need to protect the children from age-inappropriate content across all
administration would push for the ratification of RCEP.
“The reason that I talked about RCEP is because I am quite confident na malapit na maipasa iyan (it will soon be approved),” Marcos said.
“I think time will prove that it is to our advantage,
pine Rotary in hosting the 2028 Rotary International Convention that will be attended by more than 50,000 Rotarians from around the world.
“In my own capacity po, tutulong ako sa abot ng aking makakaya para maging successful (ang convention)… tutulong po ako sa Rotary dahil ako po’y naniniwala rin sa inyong mabuting hangaring makatulong sa ating kapwa tao,” he said.
Go then issued a challenge, saying that everyone should “double efforts and work together
in Davao City will conduct there annual tradition every Valentine’s Day.
Dela Rey said DCPO will distribute flowers to passersby outside the DCPO gate.
“Manghatag gihapon mi ug bulak pangunahan ni DCPO director Alberto Lupaz dinha sa atubangan sa barracks. Manghatag mi ug bulak sa mga mangagi ug ubang police stations naa pud silay pakulo para mas ma-feel sa mga katawhan ang Valentine’s Day. Dili lang mi para sa law enforcement apan muduyog sad mi kung unsa man ang mga special occassions sa dakbayan sa Davao,” she said.
online platforms. He explained that this includes engaging the minors for a consultation and educating them, including the private sector and media practitioners, through webinar series, training, community education and outreach.
He said the media are responsible in ensuring informed reporting on issues related to child online safety and protection and should follow an ethical approach to covering issues involving OSAEC.
“Media plays an instrumental role in protecting children by increasing public discourse on the issue,” he said.
Ariel Sebellino, executive director of the Philippine Press Institute, added that efforts and initiatives must be smarter to combat challenges and problems.
“People just don’t know that once kids are left like that, they are already exposed to so many dangers, be it potential or real. These are the realities now,” he said.
He added that the role of journalists in addressing these online dangers is “very critical and crucial.” (Antonio
L. Colina IV / MindaNews)kasi ang habol natin is trade eh (we are after trade),” he said.
In a speech prior to his inauguration, Marcos earlier said the government would deliberate further on the impact of RCEP on agriculture before deciding on its fate.
to address the pressing issues facing the country.”
“Ako po’y nakaikot na sa buong Pilipinas. Kung napapanood n’yo po sa TV, ‘yung mula Aparri hanggang Jolo, ako po naabot ko na ‘yung mula Batanes, Aparri, Basilan, Jolo, hanggang Tawi-tawi. Nasunugan, bagyo, buhawi, putok ng bulkan, lindol, pinupuntahan ko talaga. Dahil ipinangako ko po sa Pilipino, kahit saang sulok kayo ng Pilipinas, pupuntahan, tutulong, at magseserbisyo ako sa abot ng aking makakaya,” he shared.
port cancer patients and their families.
“The law also assisted our patients, particularly the marginalized Filipinos. So we provided the Cancer Supportive Pallative Medical Access Program (CSPMAP) mga libre na tambal gikan sa DOH and these include cancer medicines,” Dolendo said.
Earlier this month, a group of doctors of SPMC encouraged Dabawenyos to undergo screening to detect cancers at an early stage.
They said that the most common cancers are breast, cervical, colorectal cancer (colon cancer), prostate cancer, and lung.
By Maya M. Padillo“flexible,” noting that it has undergone several amendments to keep up with the “changing times.”
He said that the charter also continues to protect and uphold the “fundamental rights and freedom of every Filipino.”
House Speaker Martin Romualdez earlier said lifting the restrictive economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution could be the Philippines’ ticket out of its “third world” status.
Speaking before reporters in Tokyo, he said making the 1987 Constitution “less restrictive” and “more
recreation, leisure, or business for a period not exceeding three to six months for leisure, business or other purposes.”
Likewise, the BIR said following should be in the regulations:
• retailers/merchants covered
• procedure for claiming the refund
• list of requirements to be presented
The BIR also noted that the law for VAT refund for foreign tourists should also provide regulations for retailers/merchants covered, procedure for claiming the refund, and list of require-
open” would help the country compete in the region when it comes to business and investment.
The House, through the Committee on Constitutional Amendments, is currently deliberating on the proposed measures to amend the existing Charter.
Committee chairperson and Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez earlier said that the House leadership wants to put “special focus” on economic amendments in the ongoing Charter change (Cha-cha) discussions.
ments to be presented.
“The Philippines should adopt a VAT refund for tourist mechanism where the VAT refund is given after a risk-based inspection of goods to be exported, and VAT refund is administered by a single service provider,” Delos Santos said.
The hearing ended with Nueva Ecija Representative Mikaela Suansing, vice chairperson of the House Committee on Ways and Means, getting elected as chair of the technical working group (TWG) that will consolidate the recommendations.
statement.
“Our measures are meant to balance the interests among local food producers, consumers, and the overall economy,” he added.
For its part, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said this year’s general appropriations act (GAA) had allocated over P151 billion to continue the major social protection service programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
“[S]ocial protection programs have been designed to be efficient and targeted, preventing wastage of resources and varying according to the sources of shocks and causes of emergencies,” the DBM said separately.
The department said some P6.46 billion had been allocated for the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), P5.2 billion for the Supplementary Feeding Program, P36.82 billion for the Protective Services for Individuals and Families
in Difficult Circumstances, and P102.61 billion for the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).
“Indeed, regular subsidies to marginalized sectors remain a major component of the budget,” the DBM said.
“These serve as means to ensure continued access to markets and public services and help them uplift the quality of their lives,” it added.
Meanwhile, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said that the latest inflation data indicated the need for sustained efforts to combat price pressures, particularly non-monetary government measures.
“The BSP remains focused on restoring inflation to the government target and stands ready to adjust its monetary policy settings as necessary to anchor inflation expectations and safeguard the inflation target over the policy horizon,” it said in a separate statement.
On March 2, AirAsia said it would also begin flying to Taipei from the Cebu Mactan International Airport to boost tourism in the ASEAN region.
CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers are trying to finalize a contract agreement with veteran swingman Danny Green, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Sunday (Monday, Manila time).
A three-time NBA champion, Green began his pro career with Cleveland in 2009.
See White picks up slack as Tatum misfires in Celtics win over Grizzlies
The 35-year-old Green
will sign with the Cavaliers if the sides can “work through details,” according to the person who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the team is not commenting on its interest in him.
Green posted about his status on Twitter, saying, “It’s not done yet ... .”
A well-respected player, Green would give the young Cavs another out-
One of the exciting matches
I’ve watched so far in the 2023 PBA season was the recent duel between also-rans Blackwater and Rain Or Shine last Sunday in the Gov’s Cup.
(Unfortunately for Brgy. Ginebra fanatics, the Gin Kings miserably lost by a whopping 30-point deficit to sister ballclub Magnolia.)
The herculean performance of Greg Smith, who replaced Michael Qualls, awed me and delivered a much deserved win for the Elasto Painters, 122-117.
The 6’5” star from Colorado State was not a do-it-all performer who wanted to impress his credentials that would guarantee his
return next season.
side shooter and bring more postseason experience to a team trying to get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2018. He has appeared in 165 playoff games.
Cleveland has won six straight and currently is the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference standings. Green became available after working out
a contract buyout from Houston, which acquired him at the trade deadline from Memphis. He played in just three games with the Grizzlies this season after tearing knee ligaments during the playoffs last season with the Philadelphia 76ers.
The Cavaliers didn’t make any moves at the deadline, but president
Smith played his game normally. He was cool, calculating and composed throughout. He produced the points, defended well, rebounded well, issued assists and inspired his teammates to work harder.
Smith, unmistakably, has a very high basketball IQ, taking his shots with precision and timing, scoring two consecutive treys after the tip-off, ominously sending a message to the Bossing guys. His ball handling minimized his turnovers although his free throw shooting was not perfect.
Coach Yeng Guiao was visibly satisfied with his new import as
he remained calm all throughout even when his boys were, at some point, trailing. I think Smith knew the defense would focus on him. Instead of hogging the ball as is usual with prolific imports, Smith involved his teammates in offense while providing defense against their opponent’s fastbreaks.
On his debut, Smith produced an awe-inspiring 38 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists despite the jetlag he was still feeling on playing day. Definitely, he was in good shape and fine form.
Of course, on the other side, Troy Williams was not outdone as he put in 40 pts. for Blackwa-
ter which led 95-87 after three quarters and only fell behind in the closing minutes of the fourth.
Actually, when the battle is sea-sawing in nobody’s firm favor, the coach cannot but hope (and pray) that his import produces miracles at the right time and place.
Exactly what Smith did.
When Blackwater was catching up, 106-100 with three minutes more playing time, Smith teamed up with Jewel Ponferrada to up ROS lead to 115-106, giving the Elasto Painters more than enough breathing space to nail the hard-earned victory.
Officiating, I think, was bet-
of basketball operations Koby Altman said the team would explore the buyout market.
Green has averaged 12.4 points and 4.9 rebounds over 14 seasons with the Cavs, Spurs, Raptors, Lakers, Sixers and Grizzlies.
He has made 39.9% percent of his career 3-pointers. Green played college ball at North Carolina.
ter. There were no questionable calls that were protested by both camps. Only one or two technicals were slapped, I think. Arguably, Smith could make it two in a row for Guiao.
SCORES; RAIN OR SHINESmith 38; Santillan 16; Demusis 12; Belga 12. Ildefonso 12; Asistio 7; Clarito5, Ponferrada, Norwood 4; Caracut 3’ Torres, Yap 0.
BLACKWATER - Williams 40; Sena 15; Hill 14; McCarthy 10; Ilagan 8; Ular 7; Amer 5; Ayonayon 4; Banal 3; Taha 2; Torralba 0. Quarter scores: 34-31; 66-67; 87-95; 122-117. (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD
BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!
The former Apo Golf resident teaching pro heads the 86 other competitors chasing the 35 slots in this year’s circuit, which kicks off its season in Bacolod next month.
Salvador is a previous Order of Merit champion who triumphed in the event in its inaugural staging in 2009.
This marks the return of the PGT Q-School after it was suspended over growing concerns related to COVID-19 outbreak in 2020. The PGT held two tournaments at Riviera under the bubble set-up late in the year and staged one in 2021 before holding a seven-leg circuit last year.
With restrictions being eased, the country’s premier tour is gearing up for a banner season. First up is the Negros Occidental Classic set on March 15-18, to be followed by the Iloilo Golf Challenge on March 22-25, and the second ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship on April 18-21 in Cavinti, Laguna.
The 2023 PGT season actually kicked off last week with its flagship championship, the Don Pocholo Razon Memorial Cup, with Dutch Guido van der Valk keeping the crown via a five-shot victory over Asian Tour-bound Lloyd Go.
Also set to compete in this
year’s Q-School are PGT Asia winner Rene Menor, many-time Philippine Masters champion and PGT leg winner Robert Pactolerin and former amateur standouts Ferdie Aunzo, Mhark Fernando and Rufino Bayron.
Japanese Toru Nakajima, who edged Jay Bayron in sudden death at Wack Wack in 2013 to become the first foreign PGT winner, is also in the field, along with Korean Lee Song and Gen Nagai, the Cebu-based Japanese who won the Philippine Junior championship in 2014.
Sixty-five locals and 22 foreign bets are slugging it out for the coveted PGT cards in the 72-hole elims at the rolling, wind-raked Splendido Taal layout with the top 50 and ties after 36 holes advancing to the final two rounds.
The top 35 will then be included in Category 6 while the next 35 will earn Category 7 status of the 2023 PGT starting fields.
Others tipped to contend for PGT cards are Rey Pagunsan, Ramil Bisera, Johnel Bulawit, Danilo delos Santos, Omar Dungca, Nico Evangelista, Rolando Marabe, Jr., Paul Miñoza, Miko Pactolerin, Elmer Saban, Nilo Salahog, Peter Villaber and Brent Sumampong.