NATIONS RALLY FOR PH ON WPS

MANILA — The United States and Japan on Wednesday expressed support for the Philippines' legal victory over China on the West Philippine Sea, exactly 7 years since the Permanent Court of Arbitration handed down the ruling.

In separate statements, both countries called the ruling "final and legally binding."

"We continue to urge Beijing to comport its maritime claims with international law as reflected in the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention; cease its routine harassment of claimant state vessels lawfully operating in their respective exclusive economic zones; halt its disruption to states’ sovereign rights to explore, exploit, conserve, and manage natural resources; and end its interference with the freedoms of navigation and overflight of states lawfully operating in the region," US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said.

"We will continue working with allies and partners to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific, one that is at peace and grounded in respect for international law," Miller added.

Meanwhile, ambassadors from Australia, Japan, the European Union, France, the United Kingdom, and India on Wednesday recognized the importance of the legal victory the Philippines won seven years ago in its territorial dispute with China.

At a forum to mark the anniversary of the ruling, the envoys rejected acts of intimidation and coercion and spoke of efforts to build stronger maritime defense cooperation with the Philippines and other like-minded states in the Indo-Pacific region.

They stressed the ruling by the UN Permanent Court of Arbitration was final and legally binding.

Australian Ambassador Hae Kyong Yu cited Australia’s continued work with the Philippines to ensure that the 2016 arbitral ruling is “properly implemented” and “properly followed.”

“Today is a really important day, not just for the Philippines, but for the whole world. Australia is a long-standing [and] strong partner to the Philippines. We want to work with the Philippines to ensure that the 2016 arbitral award is properly implemented and properly followed,” the Australian envoy said.

European Union Ambassador to the Philippines H.E Luc Veron said the EUis one with the Philippines and various international partners in stressing the importance of upholding maritime law.

3-DAY TRANSPORT STRIKE TO COINCIDE WITH 2023 SONA

Transport groups are planning a three-day transport strike to coincide with President Marcos’ second State of the Nation Address.

Manibela national president Mar Valbuena said the strike will be held from July 24 to 26. This, after regional transportation authorities allegedly awarded most routes for public utility vehicles to large corporations as well as transport groups allied with politicians.

"'Yung regional offices ng [Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board] sila po ina-award karamihan nito sa mga malalaking korporasyon o di man po sa mga pulitiko, mayor, congressman. So wala na po pala kaming aabutan na ruta after ng route rationalization," he said in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview.

He warned monopoly of routes could lead to tripling of minimum fare as the competition is eliminated.

Valbuena urged the transportation department to return 5-year franchises instead of 1-year provisional authorities that need to be renewed. He noted that transport operators were "phased out twice" under the modernization plan: first, after their transportation franchises were rescinded and second, after modern buses were also removed from roads.

Manibela was among several transport groups that joined a nationwide transport strike last March. The group ended the strike after being given an audience in Malacanang.

RIDERS SEEKING SHELTER FROM RAIN UNDER FLYOVERS MAY SOON BE FINED, SAYS MMDA

MANILA — Motorcycle riders who take shelter under flyovers and footbridges during heavy rains may soon be fined, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said on Wednesday.

MMDA acting chairman Romando Artes said stopping under overpasses to seek cover from the rain is dangerous for riders and motorists.

“Unang-una, delikado para sa kanila. Imagine mo, nasa highway ka, titigil ka doon, pwede kang masagasaan o mabangga ‘pag hindi ka napansin ng ibang nagmamaneho,” Artes told reporters in a press briefing after the unveiling of the MMDA’s new communications and command center in Pasig City.

He added that riders gathering under flyovers could also cause traffic congestion.

“Nagko-cause po siya ng traffic dahil, imagine mo, kung 30 minutes to an hour ang ulan, hindi sila umaalis hangga’t hindi tumitila. Minsan, isang lane na lang ang nadadaanan na nagko-cause po ng sobrang traffic,” Artes said.

The MMDA plans to punish erring motorcycle riders by issuing violation tickets for obstruction with a fine of P500.

“Obstruction ang una na penalty, P500. Soon, kapag naisaayos natin ang ating sistema, particularly ‘yung mga sa gasoline stations, we will strictly enforce na po ang pag-iissue ng tickets sa magba-violate,” Artes said.

The MMDA official said motorcycle riders could stop at designated lay-by areas in case of rain.

The agency also plans to talk to gasoline stations along EDSA to partner with them in putting up tents for motorcycle riders, Artes said.

“Isa rin sa nakikita naming solution ay kakausapin ang gasoline stations—MMDA na ang maglalagay ng tents para doon sila sumilong. Kasama po iyan sa aming plano sa ngayon,” he said.

MARCOS INAUGURATES AGUSAN DEL NORTE HYDROPOWER PLANT

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos inaugurated yesterday the 24.9-megawatt Lake Mainit Hydropower Plant in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

“As our power demand continues to increase, initiatives and projects such as this are most welcome as they help the country increase the energy supply (and) improve our energy mix by prioritizing the use of renewables,” Marcos said in his speech.

He said the power plant is expected to serve around 45,000 households and generate socioeconomic opportunities for residents of Agusan del Norte and the rest of Mindanao.

The hydropower plant will help reduce carbon footprint and improve air quality, Marcos added.

The President reiterated his commitment to improve bureaucratic processes in the energy sector.

“I call once again on our private sector partners to join us as we realize our goal of advancing affordable, reliable and clean energy for the benefit of our people,” he said.

“We assure you that this government will continue to improve bureaucratic processes in the energy sector to make it easier for investors to come in,” he added.

Marcos thanked the Markham Resources Corp. and Japan’s J-POWER Group for their partnership to develop and operate the power plant in Agusan del Norte.

SC: PETITIONS CONTESTING COVID-19 MEASURES SHOULD HAVE BEEN FILED AT LOWER COURTS

The Supreme Court of the Philippines has dismissed petitions challenging the constitutionality of COVID-19 regulations issued by the government's pandemic task force and other agencies. The court cited the violation of the doctrine of hierarchy of courts and the need for technical and scientific expertise to resolve the issues raised. The petitioners argued that the regulations infringed on their right to life and liberty, right to travel, and equal protection clause. One of the disputed regulations required eligible employees to be vaccinated or undergo regular testing. As COVID-19 cases declined, the government has eased some restrictions, including the mask mandate. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared an end to the global emergency status for COVID-19, but emphasized that the threat of the virus remains. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. is considering withdrawing the declaration of a state of public health emergency in the country.

DENR TO ADOPT SHORT-TERM WATER SUPPLY FIXES

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the Philippines is planning to diversify the country's water sources in response to the effects of the El Niño phenomenon. The DENR aims to adopt short-term water supply augmentation programs, including using water from Laguna Lake and reprocessing wastewater. The agency is urging the public to conserve water as the Angat Dam, which supplies 98 percent of potable water in Metro Manila, is already below its minimum operating level. Meanwhile, Congressman Elizaldy Co praised the Congress for allocating a significant budget for the construction of solar-powered water supply systems in upland areas. These systems will provide access to potable water for millions of Filipinos. The government is also considering the creation of the Department of Water Resources to address the water crisis comprehensively. Senator Grace Poe has expressed support for the department's establishment and intends to conduct a Senate hearing on the matter.

DSWD EYES HELP FOR ‘BOY SOLDIERS’

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) aims to assist child soldiers by establishing a child facility to provide support. Undersecretary Alan Tanjusay expressed concern that impoverished children in conflict-prone areas are easily recruited by rebel groups. The DSWD aims to provide psychosocial interventions and financial aid to save these children from being used as combatants, couriers, guides, and spies. Tanjusay highlighted the neglect of the Boys' Care Center in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The DSWD plans to address the facility's needs and provide the necessary support. The center was built under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program in collaboration with the Tagum City government in 2021 and operates around the clock.

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ENVOY BARES FRANCE’S PLAN TO ESTABLISH MANILA-PARIS DIRECT FLIGHT

Outgoing French Ambassador to the Philippines, Michèle Boccoz, mentioned the possibility of a direct flight between Manila and Paris during her visit to Malacañang. She expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality of the Filipino people and discussed promoting student exchange programs to encourage more Filipino students to study in Paris. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. commended Boccoz for her efforts in strengthening bilateral relations between France and the Philippines. France ranked 18th as the Philippines' trading partner, with total trade increasing from $1.5 billion to $1.8 billion. It also remained a significant agricultural export and import partner for the country.

DEPED SAYS MAY REVIEW HONORS SYSTEM SANS VALEDICTORIAN, TOP 10

The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines is considering a review of its student recognition system, including the removal of valedictorian and salutatorian awards. The review is part of the department's revision of the K to 12 Curriculum for School Year 2024-2025. DepEd Assistant Secretary Francis Cesar Bringas explained that the assessment and grading system should align with the curriculum, and changes may be made to recognize the competencies achieved by students. The current system, which veers away from competition and focuses on personal achievements, was introduced in 2016. While the new system has been generally accepted, there are differing opinions among teachers and parents. Some argue that the traditional awards recognize students' efforts and should be reviewed. The discussion comes ahead of moving-up and graduation ceremonies in public schools.

MOST PINOYS THINK ALLIANCES TO DEFEND TERRITORY A MUST

Eight out of 10 Filipinos agree that the Philippines should form alliances and strengthen its relationships with like-minded countries to defend its territorial and economic rights in the West Philippine Sea, the latest commissioned Pulse Asia survey showed.

Results of the survey, commissioned by international think tank Stratbase ADR Institute, were released at its forum, “The 7th Year of the Arbitral Victory: Defending the West Philippine Sea, the Indo-Pacific, and the Rules-Based Order.”

Pulse Asia conducted the survey from June 19-23, 2023, and asked 1,200 Filipinos nationwide whether or not they agree with the statement: “Alliances should be formed and relationships strengthened with other countries that have similar beliefs to the Philippines to defend the territorial and economic rights of the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea and protect international order.”

Protesters wave flags and hold placards in front of the Chinese Consulate in Makati on July 12. AFP

Eighty percent said that they agree, while 17 percent said they are undecided.

Moreover, when asked to identify measures the Marcos administration should prioritize to effectively address issues in the West Philippine Sea, seven out of 10 Filipinos, or 72 percent said the government should strengthen the military capability of the Philippines, especially the Navy, Coast Guard, and the Air Force.

Sixty-four percent said the government should conduct joint maritime patrols and military exercises with allied countries, and 61 percent said the government should shift the focus of Philippine defense institutions, and allocate more resources to strengthen the ability to defend the country from external threats.

OFWS SUSTAIN 7% OF COUNTRY’S HOMES—SWS

At least seven percent of Filipino households have an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) currently working abroad to help sustain the family, according to the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey.

The country has about 27 million households, according to the latest Philippine Statistics Authority figures, translating to about 700,000 households with an OFW contributor.

The poll, conducted from March 26 to March 29, also said that 4% of Filipino adults are currently looking for work abroad as they want to help their families with their everyday living expenses.

The SWS also showed 74% of the households often receive money from an OFW, while 10% said they receive “sometimes,” 8 percent said “seldom,” and 9 percent said “never.”

According to the survey, Japan with 14% topped the list as the most cited country “where one aspires to work,” followed by Canada (13%), Saudi Arabia (11%), South Korea (11%), Australia (11%), and the United States of America (9%).

The survey likewise showed that 13 percent of Filipino adults aspire to live abroad.

The Department of Migrant Workers said nearly two million OFWs are currently working abroad.

The survey was conducted using a face-to-face method of 1,200 adults aged 18 and above nationwide, with a sampling error margin of +2.8%.

LPA, SOUTHWEST MONSOON TO BRING RAINS TILL WEEKEND: PAGASA

It's going to be a rainy day this Thursday as a low pressure area and southwest monsoon affect weather patterns in Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

PAGASA weather forecaster Rhea Torres said the LPA was last spotted 295 km East of Infanta, Quezon as of 3 a.m.

Metro Manila, the rest of Luzon, Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Caraga, and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will experience cloudy skies with scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms over the next few days until the weekend.

Davao Region and SOCCSKSARGEN will also experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.

The weather bureau also warned of possible flash floods or landslides due to moderate to at times heavy rains.

"Magdala po tayo ng payong, magdala na rin tayo ng bota at mga raincoat dahil sa posibleng pagbaha para hindi naman tayo maging basang sisiw pagdating sa ating paaralan o trabaho pati na rin sa ating kabahayan," Torres said.

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

ENRIQUE GIL TO HEADLINE COMEDY FILM 'I AM NOT BIG BIRD'

MANILA -- After a three-year hiatus from the entertainment industry due to the pandemic, Kapamilya heartthrob Enrique Gil is now preparing to make his highly anticipated comeback with his upcoming film project.

For the first time, Gil will be headlining a full-blown comedy movie “I Am Not Big Bird,” a co-production among ABS-CBN Films, Black Sheep and Anima.

The film centers on Luis Carpio (Gil), who takes on a journey to Thailand, where a peculiar turn of events unfolds. During his vacation, Luis finds himself unwittingly caught up in a case of mistaken identity when he is confused with Big Bird, a known personality in the adult film industry in Thailand, due to their uncanny resemblance.

“First of all, hindi ako si Big Bird. But at some point, ako rin magiging Big Bird. Basically, Big Bird is a famous porn star in Thailand. My character Luis Carpio travels to Thailand and doon siya pinagkamalan na si Big Bird kasi parang identical twins sila. That’s where the adventure begins,” he said at a press conference.

Written by Lilit Reyes, the movie is inspired by events which actually happened to his friend when they went to Thailand several years ago.

“I was an advertising guy so we always go to an event in Thailand for advertising people. It’s like a big awards night. So, every time I go there, I am with my colleague. When we go to brunch, there’s a swarm of girls from another nation, they swarm around us and we were wondering why,” Reyes narrated.

“It turns out, when we returned the next year, still the same thing, kinukuyog kami. Nagtatago na kami. Hindi dahil sa akin but dahil sa kasama ko. We found out he [looks like] a porn star in one film. Naisip ko, this is a good premise for writing a story. Nagbabiyahe lang kayo tapos biglang may kamukha ka na wala kang kamalay-malay,” he added.

Similarly, “I Am Not Big Bird” will mostly be shot in Thailand and will be set in the early 2000s.

When asked about his approach to preparing for such a role, Gil said: “I don’t know how to prepare for something like this. I am just ready for whatever we’re supposed to do for the film. I’ve always wanted to do a full-blown comedy. When they pitched this, sa title pa lang, ‘Oh my gosh, I need to do something like this.’”

“My dad was a comedian as well. He was always telling me growing up, ‘You know what Quen, whatever happens, kahit nasa work ako, I try to make people happy and make them laugh.’ Laughter is really the best medicine so sabi ko I need to do a comedy. Here it is,” he added.

Directed by Victor Villanueva, the movie also stars Red Ollero, Nikko Natividad and Pepe Herrera. It will open in cinemas nationwide this year, but its producers are also planning to bring it to genre festivals outside the country in 2024.

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THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Complaining about a problem without proposing a solution is called whining. - Unknown