ALL 130 SAVED FROM RoRo FIRE OFF PANGLAO ISLAND

More than 130 people were rescued from a Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) vessel that caught fire near Tagbilaran City port in Bohol province. This was the second major ferry fire in the country within three months, following a previous incident that claimed 33 lives off the coast of Basilan. In a separate incident, two Turkish nationals were rescued from their burning yacht near Nasugbu town, Batangas. The RoRo vessel, named MV Esperanza Star and owned by Kho Shipping Lines Inc. (KSL), was traveling from Iligan City and had left Siquijor the previous night. A distress call was made when a fire broke out outside the engine room near Panglao Island. Fortunately, there were no missing persons or injuries, as all passengers and crew were accounted for. KSL expressed gratitude to the local authorities and fishermen for their swift response. The company activated fire suppression systems on the vessel to extinguish the fire and minimize damage. The damaged vessel will be replaced by MV Cataingan to continue serving the Cebu City-Tagbilaran City-Lazi, Siquijor-Iligan City route. In the Nasugbu incident, the yacht's captain and boatman were rescued by local fishermen after strong waves caused a fire. The victims sustained injuries but were in stable condition after being taken to the hospital.

MARCOS: NONSTOP AID FOR MAYON

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reassured residents affected by the eruption of Mayon Volcano in the Bicol region that the government would provide continuous assistance. Evacuees may have to wait for several months until the volcano's activity subsides before they can return home. The government is prepared to support those within a six-kilometer radius of the volcano during this time. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), nearly 39,000 people have been affected, with over half seeking shelter in evacuation centers. Several cities and towns have suspended classes in response to the volcanic unrest. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) reported that 9,571 families from 26 barangays have been affected, with 4,471 families currently in evacuation centers. The national government has provided P35 million in assistance, with additional support from local government units. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported a positive development, with only two volcanic earthquakes recorded recently. Although the seismic energy release has increased slightly, the alert level remains at 3 for now.

DHSUD REINFORCES ANTI-CORRUPTION POLICY

Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar on Sunday said the agency has reinforced its standing anti-corruption policy through a June 14 memorandum against “corruption, irregularity, and influence-peddling.”

He reminded all DHSUD officials and employees to “adhere to the highest standard of professionalism.”

“The department will not tolerate any form of corruption, irregularity, and influence-peddling, especially among relatives of DHSUD officials and employees, that will undermine its vision,” he said.

“Violators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” he added.

He assured the public that the agency would follow “all relevant laws, directives, and standards in the pursuit of its mandates, and welcomes (public) feedback to ensure continuous improvement in our delivery of service.”

He issued the memorandum as part of DHSUD’s proactive measures against scammers who could be taking advantage of the implementation of the flagship Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program. Rio N. Araja

The public must only transact with DHSUD, its key shelter agencies, other government offices, and partner-local government units, and not to private individuals or groups.

DHSUD aims to address the country’s backlog pegged at more than 6.5 million units, and is expected to go full blast in the coming weeks.

POLLUTION CONTROL GROUP BATS FOR SPEEDY MAINSTREAMING OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES

MANILA  – The Pollution Control Association of the Philippines (PCAP) is advocating for the mainstream adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country, highlighting their health benefits for Filipinos. PCAP Vice President Jeremiah Dwight Sebastian emphasized that EVs can reduce air pollution, improve public health by decreasing the number of sick individuals, and lower the reliance on hospitals. This is primarily due to the fact that EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, resulting in reduced carbon emissions and smaller carbon footprints compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars.

The transport sector in the Philippines emitted 31.54 million tons of carbon dioxide in 2021, according to Statista Research Department. Transitioning to EVs has the potential to save lives, prevent childhood asthma attacks, and generate over $1.7 trillion in global climate benefits, as reported by the American Lung Association.

To support the decarbonization efforts and mitigate the effects of climate change, the Philippine government passed Executive Order No. 12 in 2023, aiming to promote the widespread usage of EVs and reduce carbon emissions caused by fossil fuel-powered vehicles. The government provided tax breaks for various types of EVs, except for e-motorcycles, which are still subject to a 30% import duty. This decision has sparked criticism from stakeholders in the EV industry, calling for more inclusive tax incentives.

Motorcycles constitute a significant portion of vehicles in the Philippines, with over 7.81 million registered motorcycles in 2022. The Department of Energy has set ambitious goals to roll out 2,454,200 EVs (including cars, tricycles, motorcycles, and buses) and 65,000 charging stations nationwide by 2028. The revision of Executive Order No. 12 to include e-motorcycles is expected to accelerate the country's complete transition to electric vehicles.

PFP BEEFS UP MEMBERSHIP WITH 10 NEW INDUCTEES

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s party Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) inducted 10 new members on Saturday in a bid to expand its reach nationwide.

The new members, who consist of governors and mayors from all over the country, took their oaths of allegiance to the PFP in Manila.

They are: Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib; Zamboanga Sibugay Governor Anne Hofer; Laguna Vice Governor Karen Agapay; Batanes Governor Malou Cayco; Uyugan Batanes Mayor Jonathan Nanud; Sabtang, Batanes Mayor Prescila Babalo; Itbayat, Batanes Mayor Sabas De Sagon; Mahatao, Batanes Mayor Pedro Poncio; Ivana, Batanes Mayor Celso Batallones; and Basco, Batanes Mayor German Caccam

PFP President and South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. said the party has shifted its focus into strengthening its electoral structure, as well as supporting Marcos’ programs on agriculture and the marginalized sector.

Aside from Tamayo, other PFP officials led the oath-taking ceremony: PFP National Secretary General Tom Lantion, PFP Manila chapter Chairman Alex Lopez, and PFP Manila Secretary General Chikee Ocampo.

Formed in 2018 by supporters of former president Rodrigo Duterte and his then push for federalism in the Philippines, PFP saw the landslide victory of President Marcos–its standard-bearer in the 2022 polls–after he obtained more than 58 percent of the total number of votes.

SPEAKER, SANDRO PAY HOMAGE TO ‘BEST DADS ON EARTH’

Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Sunday paid homage to hardworking fathers who have diligently worked to provide for their families in their efforts to raise their children as responsible citizens of society.

“Building a home, keeping it a safe space for dreams and aspirations to grow, and inspiring our families to be productive members of the community are just as important to nation-building as any other duty, responsibility, or calling,” he said.

Senior Deputy Speaker and Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos, for his part, greeted his father, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., on Twitter, calling him “the best dad on earth.”

“Thank you for everything that you do for us and for always finding time despite having the weight of the country on your shoulders,” the younger Marcos said.

“You have taught us the importance of kindness and compassion even in the most trying of times,” he added.

Romualdez, himself a father, urged the public to “celebrate the lives of our fathers – the heroes of our homes.”

“Being a father myself, I know how challenging it is to build a home and raise good, God-fearing children. But I can also say it is one of the most rewarding roles I am fortunate enough to have, and I would never trade it for anything in the world,” he said.

“Seeing my family and my children grow to be exceptional versions of themselves gives me the motivation not only to be a better father and leader of my household but to be a better person and legislator, and help make our country a better place for all families,” Romualdez added.

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WATER LEVELS IN 6 DAMS DROP

MANILA  — The water level of Angat Dam and five other dams in Luzon continued to drop despite rains experienced last week in many areas in the country, according to latest data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

PAGASA said as of 6 a.m. yesterday, the water level of Angat Dam in Bulacan decreased to 186.55 meters compared to its previous level of 186.78 meters, which is a decrease of 0.23 meters.

The current water level of Angat Dam is still 3.97 meters higher than its rule curve elevation of 182.58 meters or the level of the dam to be able to fulfill its functions.

In a radio interview, National Water Resources Board (NWRB) executive director Sevillo David Jr. said over one million connections would be affected by rotational water interruptions once the 52 cubic meters per second (cms) water allocation of the two Metro Manila concessionaires ends on June 30.

“Around more than one million connections were affected in April before the NWRB granted the 52 cms. If it is decreased to 50 cms, these areas will be affected again. That is why we decided to continue (the water allocation) to prevent the water interruption in the affected areas,” David said.

David maintained that based on the projection of PAGASA on the impending threat of the El Niño phenomenon, if there will be another extension of the 52 cms water allocation for Maynilad Water Services Inc., the NWRB can no longer accommodate Manila Water.

“Based on our projection, the Angat Dam will not be able to recover before the end of the year, especially during the onslaught of the El Niño so we are preparing for this. We need to manage the releases (of water from Angat). It’s difficult to grant the 52 cms,” he noted.

The current 52 cms water allocation for the two concessionaires will be effective until June 30, 2023 after the NWRB authorized to extend it for another 15 days.

On the other hand, aside from Angat Dam, the water level at Ipo Dam in Bulacan also decreased to 99.05 meters or by 0.09 meters compared to its previous level of 99.14 meters.

The water level at Binga Dam in Benguet also dropped to 571.42 meters or 0.61 meters less from its level of 572.03 meters on Saturday.

There was also a 0.10 meters decrease in the water level of Pantabangan Dam in Nueva Ecija after it dropped to 183.37 meters or 0.10 meters less its previous level of 183.47 meters.

On the other hand, the water level at Magat Dam in Isabela also dropped to 168.10 meters or 0.36 meters less compared to its previous level of 168.46 meters.

PAGASA said the water level of Caliraya Dam in Laguna also decreased to 286.17 meters or 0.03 meters less compared to its previous level of 286.20 meters.

Rains were experienced in many areas in the country last week as Typhoon Chedeng enhanced the southwest monsoon.

MEASLES CASES INCREASE BY OVER 300 PERCENT

The number of measles cases in the Philippines is increasing despite the government's efforts to vaccinate children against infectious diseases. According to the Department of Health (DOH), there were 623 measles cases reported from January 1 to May 20, which is a 339% increase compared to the same period last year when there were 142 cases. Two fatalities from measles were recorded during this five-month period, while no deaths were reported last year.

Among the regions, Zamboanga Peninsula had the highest number of cases with 90, followed by Central Visayas with 81. Central Luzon and the National Capital Region reported 62 and 61 cases, respectively. Soccsksargen, Eastern Visayas, and Caraga also experienced significant increases in measles cases.

In response to the rising cases, the DOH launched the "Chikiting Ligtas 2023" campaign, which aims to vaccinate children against measles, rubella, and polio. As of June 14, over eight million children have been vaccinated since the campaign began on May 1. The campaign seeks to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases in the country.

7 ‘TERRORISTS’ SLAIN IN MAGUINDANAO CLASH

Seven suspected terrorists were killed in an alleged shootout with government security forces during a raid in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao del Sur, Philippines. The suspects reportedly refused to allow their alleged hideout to be searched for firearms and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region police and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) retaliated when the suspects fired at them. The operation aimed to arrest Nasser Yusseff Husain and Norjihad Husain, also known as Datdat Usop and Tutin Usop, respectively, and search their hideout for weapons and explosives.

Local officials confirmed that the Husain brothers and their followers were involved in bomb attacks on buses and power towers in Central Mindanao between 2010 and 2017. The other individuals killed in the raid were Mamex Karem, Dela Singkala, Morsid Madidis, Jerry Pagugunang, and Punpugay Pagugunang.

The operation was launched based on information that the suspects had been spotted in the area since Friday. The suspects were also believed to be involved in a six-hour siege conducted by the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Datu Paglas in May 2021, as a show of force after some of their members had surrendered to authorities months earlier.

BATANGAS TOWN MAYOR HELD FOR GUNS, EXPLOSIVES

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna  — A municipal mayor and his two brothers, one of them a barangay chairman, were among four people arrested for illegal possession of firearms and explosives in raids on their houses in Mabini, Batangas yesterday.

Mabini Mayor Nilo Villanueva and his brothers Bayani, president of the Association of Barangay Captains in the town, and Oliver as well as an unidentified staff are under the custody of the police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group for the filing of charges.

CIDG personnel and Special Action Force (SAF) commandos conducted the raids on the houses of the Villanueva siblings in Barangays Sto. Tomas, Sampaguita and Pulong Niyugan in Malvar.

The search warrants were issued by a local court.

A 5.56 caliber rifle, an MK2 hand grenade, a .22-caliber handgun, a .45-caliber pistol and several rounds of ammunition were reportedly recovered in the raids.

“The CIDG and SAF teams are the main operators of the raids with no backup from the local police. They only gave us an initial report,” Maj. Mickglo Mariñas of the Mabini police said.

Sources said a politician sought the help of the CIDG to conduct the raid in view of the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections in October.

PHILIPPINES RETAINS TIER 1 RANKING VS HUMAN TRAFFICKING

The Philippines has maintained its Tier 1 ranking in the US State Department's Trafficking in Persons Report for the eighth consecutive year, indicating its serious and sustained efforts to combat human trafficking. The country has made progress in investigating and convicting traffickers, amending anti-trafficking laws, increasing funding for anti-trafficking initiatives, and imposing significant prison terms on convicted traffickers.

However, the report pointed out that the Philippine government did not vigorously investigate or prosecute labor trafficking crimes occurring within the country. The government identified fewer victims and prosecuted fewer traffickers during the reporting period. Corruption and official complicity in trafficking crimes were highlighted as significant concerns, hindering law enforcement efforts.

The report also noted a slight decrease in the government's efforts to protect victims. In the reporting period, 1,277 victims were identified, including 740 sex trafficking victims and 537 labor trafficking victims. This was lower than the previous year's figure of 1,802 victims. The Department of Foreign Affairs identified 340 potential trafficking victims abroad.

To enhance anti-trafficking measures, the Department of Justice expressed interest in utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) at airports to detect potential human trafficking victims. The aim is to use AI as a tool to vet individuals, particularly those at risk of trafficking, before they leave the country for employment abroad.

Overall, while the Philippines has demonstrated progress in combating human trafficking, there are areas that require further attention, such as addressing labor trafficking, corruption, and providing stronger protection for victims.

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

NETFLIX REVEALS 'ONE PIECE' RELEASE DATE, TEASER

MANILA  — After several months of teasing stills from the first season of the live-action adaptation of the Japanese manga and anime "One Piece," Netflix has finally released its teaser and revealed the series' release date.

On August 31, fans of the Straw Hat Pirates can tune in to the premiere of the beloved action-fantasy anime/manga about an odd group of pirates led by a gangly yet strong teenager named Monkey D. Luffy.

Possessing an astoundingly flexible body courtesy of the devil fruit he ate when he was a kid, Luffy is determined to find a great treasure and become the "King of the Pirates."

The live-action teaser shows Luffy (Inaki Godoy), wearing his signature red shirt and straw hat, narrating about his childhood dream and setting sail for the Grand Line to look for a treasure.

He says that all he needs is a loyal crew, and the iconic rescue scene of pirate hunter and swordsman Roronoa Zorro (played by Japanese star Mackenyu) tied to a cross is seen.

Luffy befriends the aloof Zorro, and the next scenes see them aboard the Going Merry with another of their new crewmate, the popular thief and orange-haired Nami (Emily Rudd). Shanks (Peter Gadiot) and Usopp (Jacob Gibson) are also introduced.

"I'm sensing a little bit of tension amongst the crew," the ever-optimistic Luffy says to the bickering Nami and Zorro.

"Not a crew!" the two vehemently retort.

The short teaser ends with Luffy showing off his flexibility by having his arm stretched far beyond any known human capability, ready to land a blow on someone's face.

"One Piece" is written and illustrated by Eiichiro Oda and has been serialized since 1997. As of March 2023, it has 105 tankobon volumes. Its anime has been airing since 1999 until now with over 1,000 episodes.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear. - Rosa Parks