LTO DOWN TO ITS LAST 1 MILLION CARDS

The Land Transportation Office is down to its last 1 million plastic cards for driver's licenses after a local court issued a preliminary injunction to the government's procurement of plastic cards.

LTO chief Asec. Vigor Mendoza said the remaining plastic cards are sufficient for the April, May and June backlogs plus cards for overseas Filipino workers seeking to renew their driver's licenses.

"We are down to 1 million cards...This is on a first come, first served basis," he said in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview.

Overseas Filipino workers who want to renew their licenses before leaving will need to present their ticket before the LTO, he said.

Mendoza said the LTO is eyeing workarounds such as tapping the National Printing Office in a government-to-government deal to provide plastic licenses.

"We are talking to them right now, same quality and hopefully same price," he said.

The agency said it will ask the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to accelerate the bidding of the driver's supply license cards for next year.

41 FILIPINOS,7 PALESTINIANS FROM WAR-TORN GAZA ARRIVE IN MANILA

A total of 48 Filipinos and their Palestinian family members, all residents of the besieged Gaza Strip, arrived in Manila Sunday evening.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Administration Antonio Morales said that out of the 48 individuals, 41 are Filipinos while 7 are Palestinian, who are mostly spouses of the Filipino evacuees.

"They are all permanent residents in the Gaza Strip. They are among the 56 evacuees who are able to cross Egypt on Saturday, November 11. However 14 turned back and returned to the Gaza Strip when 9 Palestinian family members were not allowed by the border guards to enter Egypt," said Usec Morales.

Morales expressed gratitude to the different embassies who assisted in the repatriation of the Filipinos.

He said that they are still hoping that another batch of Filipinos will arrive in Manila tomorrow.

"We hope another group will be arriving tomorrow. Based on the information we have from our embassy in Amman, there are only 39 Filipinos left in the Gaza Strip."

Usec. Morales said that other Filipinos are still reluctant to leave the area because their Palestinian spouses were not allowed to cross the border in Egypt.

"For the moment, they wanted to leave together with the members of their families, Mahal nila sa buhay hindi nila maiwanan pero hindi po basta basta nakakatawid. Kailangan po 'yung mga kinauukulan, 'yung Egyptian authorities, Israel authorities, sa paglabas at pagpasok sa Gaza Strip.

WHY ISN'T THE NAVY SENDING SHIPS TO AYUNGIN? PCG EXPLAINS

MANILA — Resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre on Ayungin Shoal have been met with stiff resistance and aggressive maneuvers by Chinese ships in recent weeks.

A Chinese Coast Guard vessel used a water cannon to try to drive away M/L Kalayaan, a civilian boat operated by the municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan, during the resupply mission last week.

Attempts to block another mission in late October resulted in collisions between Chinese and Philippine vessels, including the coast guard's BRP Cabra.

But why does the Philippines rely on civilian ships — the Philippine Coast Guard and contracted boats — to resupply a Philippine Navy ship?

Speaking on ANC's "Headstart", PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela acknowledged that resupply missions are "definitely a military operation."

He said, though, that the Philippines wants "to show the world that we are in alignment with the regional norm of not militarizing the dispute."

Tarriela said the country does not want to escalate tension in the region by sending Navy ships to the area.

Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez has suggested resupplying the BRP Sierra Madre by air to avoid putting civilian crews and boats in danger.

ROMUALDEZ HAILS DUTERTE'S DECISION TO DROP CONFIDENTIAL FUNDS

MANILA — House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Monday hailed the decision of Vice President Sara Duterte not to pursue her confidential funds.

"I believe that's the right decision and we hail VP Sara's decision," Romualdez told media at the sidelines of the House of Representatives' flag ceremony and his advanced 60th birthday celebration.

Romualdez turns 60 on Tuesday, when he and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leave for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in the US.

Romualdez said he was hopeful relations with the Dutertes would improve.

"Always. I'm very very hopeful," Romualdez said.

The House recently passed a resolution upholding the integrity and dignity of the chamber following criticism from former President Rodrigo Duterte.

The House chief said the UniTeam coalition of Marcos and Vice President Duterte was still "together."

"Well we always work together it's still a UniTeam... As they always say, there will always be differences but we will always work towards resolving those differences for the service of the Filipino people," Romualdez said.

RAFAEL CONSING JR. NAMED MAHARLIKA INVESTMENT CORP. PRESIDENT, CEO

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Rafael Consing Jr. as president and chief executive officer of the Maharlika Investment Corp., Malacañang said on Monday.

The MIC governs and manages the Maharlika Investment Fund.

The Palace said Consing would have the following key responsibilities:

Establish a diversified portfolio of investments in local and global financial markets and other assets that align with the Fund's objectives

Manage and invest the initial and future contributions to the Fund

Accept and manage investment mandates aimed at increasing income for development goals

Develop and foster skills in finance, economics, risk mitigation, good governance, and related areas, consistent with building human resources capacity in the industry

Implement international best practices in investing and managing assets in line with the Santiago Principles and other globally-recognized standards of transparency and accountability

"The PCEO, appointed by the President of the Philippines for a term of three years, will ensure that MIC continues to make significant contributions to the nation's long-term economic prosperity," the Presidential Communications Office said.

Consing is the current executive director of the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Investment and Economic Affairs (OPAIEA), "driving the timely delivery of investment projects, and providing policy recommendations to advance the President's investment and economic agenda," the Palace said.

FISHERS DISCUSS CLIMATE-RESILIENT MEASURES WITH UN RAPPORTEUR

Activist fishers' group Pamalakaya recently engaged in a dialogue with Ian Fry, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in the context of climate change. They proposed climate-resilient strategies to safeguard maritime resources and fisherfolk.

Pamalakaya emphasized the need to curb commercial fishing activities and protect coastal habitats. They called for the prohibition of destructive actions in coastal regions and advocated for fisherfolk's exclusive rights to municipal waters up to 15 kilometers from the shore.

The group drew attention to nearly 100 reclamation projects in the Philippines, particularly in Manila Bay, impacting approximately 30,000 hectares of fishing waters. They also urged the government to restrict large-scale commercial fishing vessels employing harmful methods.

Pamalakaya demanded that firms responsible for damaging the marine environment and depleting marine resources be held accountable. They proposed regular subsidies for affected fisherfolk and a long-term rehabilitation plan.

Moreover, the group called for justice for fisherfolk and advocates who experienced rights violations, including nine killings during the Duterte administration. These cases were linked to marine environmental protection and fishing rights advocacy.

Pamalakaya's discussion with Ian Fry aimed to contribute to a report that urges the administration of Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to take concrete actions in addressing the climate crisis. President Marcos, Jr. had previously expressed the need to revise the fisheries code for science-based analysis and identifying fishing areas during his State of the Nation Address in July.

SC VOIDS ARREST OF PHARMALLY EXECS

The Supreme Court has ruled that the Senate's contempt and arrest orders against Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. executives, Lincoln Ong and Michael Yang Hong Ming, constituted grave abuse of discretion. In 2021, the Senate cited them in contempt for allegedly providing false and evasive answers during a hearing about Pharmally's COVID-19 medical supplies contract with the government. Ong argued that the Senate overstepped its judicial boundaries, while Yang contended that the Senate abused its power, compelling him to divulge information beyond the legislative inquiry's scope.

The SC's decision, issued on March 28, declared that the Senate's actions violated the due process rights of Ong and Yang. It emphasized that the Senate's determination of inconsistent or evasive testimony should consider the totality of evidence and allow witnesses to explain themselves. However, the SC disagreed with the claim that the Senate encroached on the judiciary's contempt power, stating that the legislative's power of contempt is inherent and essential for its functions. Senate rules were deemed constitutional as they met the publication requirements under the Constitution.

The ruling, authored by Associate Justice Henry Inting, was received by the parties on November 10.

THE REST

========

PROBERS: NO FOUL PLAY IN TAGUIG STUDENTS’ DEATHS

Two students' deaths in a Taguig City public school were determined by the police to be free of foul play. The Taguig City police, based on initial evidence, urged the public to avoid speculating on the matter to respect the grieving families. They assured that the investigation will proceed thoroughly and promptly.

The bodies of Mary Nicole Picar, 15, and Irish Sheen Manalo, 13, were discovered in the Girl Scout office within Signal Village National High School. A witness, a 16-year-old student, last saw the girls at 7:45 p.m. on the day but later found them hanging by their necks in the office. The witness reported the incident to security guards, who then informed the police.

The Taguig City government, under Mayor Lani Cayetano's instructions, pledged a comprehensive investigation into the incident and requested the public to avoid sharing unverified information on social media out of respect for the bereaved families. They extended their deepest sympathies to the grieving families and promised full support. Additionally, counselors and mental health professionals will be dispatched to assist the affected students, friends, and teachers.

DIESEL, KEROSENE PRICES TUMBLE ANEW IN MID-NOVEMBER

MANILA -- Oil prices are tumbling anew on the second week of November.

Companies announced the following price drops effective November 14, Tuesday:

PILIPINAS SHELL, SEAOIL (effective 6 a.m.):

Gasoline - P0.70/L (decrease)

Kerosene - P2.30/L (decrease)

Diesel - P3.00/L (decrease)

CLEANFUEL (effective 12:01 a.m.):

Gasoline - P0.70/L (decrease)

Diesel - P3.00/L (decrease)

PETROGAZZ (effective 6 a.m.):

Gasoline - P0.70/L (decrease)

Diesel - P3.00/L (decrease)

Department of Energy (DOE) Oil Industry Management Bureau Director Rino Abad said prices were falling because constraints on global supply seemed to be easing.

"As of November 3, malaki na ho ang binago doon sa ine-expect eating undersupply. Bagkus baliktad na, by December magkakaroon raw ng konting oversupply," he told TeleRadyo Serbisyo.

BANGSAMORO INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS BODY MECHANISMS FORMED

MANILA — Seven national and Bangsamoro Government Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB) mechanisms have been formed, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) has said.

In a statement, the Peace Adviser's Office said the mechanisms were in full force as the Bangsamoro region's economy gained momentum. The IGRB last convened in July.

Some of the units under the IGRB includes the following:

- Philippine Congress-Bangsamoro Parliament Forum (PCBPF)

- Intergovernmental Fiscal Policy Board (IFPB)

- Joint Body for the Zones of Joint Cooperation (JBZJC)

- Intergovernmental Infrastructure Development Board (IFPB)

- Intergovernmental Energy Board (IEB)

- Bangsamoro Sustainable Development Board (BSDB)

- Council of Leaders

The Council of Leaders was formed in August this year. Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, the IGRB co-chair in the government side, was recently adopted as a regular member of the council.

Pangandaman lauded the Bangsamoro government for the development, as the IGRB had to form the mechanisms, as provided under the Bangsamoro Law, before the end of 2023.

Mohagher Iqbal, co-chair of the IGRB, attributed the creation of the mechanisms to their dynamics as well as the sense of community between the national and their local governments.

“The foundation we stand on is the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), a by-product of the peace process and the legal translation of the Bangsamoro’s struggle for self-determination,” Iqbal said.

He also hoped the IGRB would be able to accomplish many things following the creation of the mechanisms.

“Slowly, we are strengthening the foundation – one that I hope will transcend the transition period – through our shared values of respect, among others, as well as our mutual commitment and efforts to resolve issues in a non-adversarial manner,” the official said.

Pangandaman also bared the financial aid underway for Bangsamoro.

Some P376 million has been signed between Philippines and Japan for the construction of road projects, emergency response, and disaster preparedness in the region.

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

'KRIS IS MY WORLD': MARK LEVISTE SAYS RELATIONSHIP WITH KRIS AQUINO CONTINUES

MANILA — Batangas Vice Gov. Mark Leviste revealed that he and TV host Kris Aquino are still in a relationship.

In a report by Bandera, Mark said that they will celebrate their 7th monthsary this November.

“We’re in a different level and I can only hope that everything will work out for the better. I can proudly say that we’re still together, still going strong,” Mark said.

“To my count, we are officially six months going on seven in a relationship this November," he added.

Mark admitted that his relationship with Kris is not perfect but they both learned their mistakes.

“But seriously and fortunately, our ups and downs haven’t been as rough as a roller-coaster ride," Mark said.

“It’s manageable, plus I value the journey just like appreciating the view from a giant ferris wheel," he added.

As Kris said, ‘We’ve both learned from our mistakes, and with God’s help, we hope to continue building a harmonious and supportive relationship for a lifetime.’”

Mark also said that Kris is more than his girlfriend but his world.

“Now more than ever, Kris, the kids and her sisters have become a big part of my life and that of my own family—she’s more than just my girlfriend … Kris is my world,” he said.

JAKE CUENCA, IZA CALZADO AMONG 28TH ASIAN TELEVISION AWARDS NOMINEES

MANILA — Kapamilya artists Jake Cuenca and Iza Calzado are among the nominees for the 28th Asian Television Awards.

According to the list released Sunday, Calzado and Cuenca's performances in the Viu series "K-Love" got nods for Best Leading Female Performance - Digital and Best Leading Male Performance - Digital, respectively.

Meanwhile, Korina Sanchez got a nod for "Rated Korina" as Best Current Affairs Presenter while Melai Cantiveros' hosting gig in "UR Da Boss" was nominated for Best Quiz or Game Show Host.

Drag artist Manila Luzon was nominated for Best Entertainment Presenter or Host with "Drag Den Philippines" season 1 while the show was included in the list for Best Reality Show.

Here are the shows in the Philippines nominated for the 28th Asian Television Awards:

Best Single Digital Program/Short Film

*"Siargao: Day & Night"

UXS Inc.

*"Jack Logan Real Talks"

The Jack Logan Show

Best Branded Content

"Coke Studio" Season 6

UXS Inc.

Best Cinematography (Drama or Fiction)

Ian Takahashi,

"K-Love"

Viu

Best News Program

"PTV News Tonight"

People's Television Network Inc.

"The Final Word"

Nine Media Corporation

"Eye of the Eagle Primetime"

Eagle Broadcasting Corporation

Best Current Affairs Program

"The View From Manila"

Cignal TV Inc.

Best Talk Show

"Korina Interviews"

Eagle Broadcasting Corporation

Best Entertainment (One-Off Or Annual)

"Summer Blast 2023"

Eagle Broadcasting Corporation

Best Quiz or Game Program

"Emojination"

Cignal TV Inc

"Sinong Manok Mo"

Kroma Entertainment Inc

Best Reality Show

"Drag Den with Manila Luzon"

Cornerstone Entertainment Inc.

Best Children's Program

"Beast of Asia 2"

People's Television Network Inc

Best Sports Program

"The Game"

Cignal TV Inc

Best News Presenter or Anchor

Joee Guilas

"PTV News Tonight"

People's Television Network Inc

Charms Espina

"PTV News Tonight"

People's Television Network Inc

Rico Hizon

"The Final Word"

Nine Media Corporation

Best Current Affairs Presenter

Pia Hontiveros

"Politics As Usual"

Nine Media Corporation

Korina Sanchez-Roxas

"Rated Korina"

Viktory 8 Media Inc

Best Talk Show Host

Gab Bayanis

"koolmates"

People's Television Network Inc

Pia Guano-Mago

"Kada Umaga"

Eagle Broadcasting Corporation

Cathy Yang

"Long Conversation : Thought Leaders with Cathy Yang"

Cignal TV Inc

Best Quiz or Game Show Host

Maja Salvador

"Emojination"

Cignal TV Inc

Melai Cantiveros

"UR Da Boss"

Kroma Entertainment Inc

Best Entertainment Presenter or Host

Manila Luzon

"Drag Den with Manila Luzon"

Cornerstone Entertainment Inc

Best Leading Male Performance - Digital

Jake Cuenca

"K-Love"

Viu

Best Leading Female Performance - Digital

Iza Calzado

"K-Love"

Viu

SPORTS

NBA SCORES OF GAMES PLAYED ON NOV 11, 2023

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Bucks

5-4

25        24        23        25        97

Magic

5-4

29        36        23        24        112

Amway Center, Orlando, FL

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

G. Antetokounmpo MIL PF

35 PTS , 10 REB , 7 AST

P. Banchero ORL PF

24 PTS , 12 REB , 5 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Raptors

4-5

26        20        25        23        94

Celtics

7-2

30        25        33        29        117

TD Garden , Boston, MA

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

P. Siakam TOR PF

17 PTS , 7 REB , 3 AST

J. Brown BOS SF

29 PTS , 5 REB , 2 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Heat

5-4

41        22        30        24        117

Hawks

5-4

24        28        30        27        109

State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

B. Adebayo MIA C

26 PTS , 17 REB , 4 AST

T. Young ATL PG

27 PTS , 2 REB , 11 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Cavaliers

4-5

30        38        16        34        118

Warriors

6-4

31        21        31        27        110

Chase Center, San Francisco, CA

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

C. LeVert CLE SG

22 PTS , 5 REB , 3 AST

S. Curry GS PG

30 PTS , 3 REB , 2 AST

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

One can't have something for nothing. Happiness has got to be paid for. - Aldous Huxley