DOH ON ALERT FOR NEW PATHOGENS AS FLU-LIKE CASES SPIKE

MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday said it was on alert for new pathogens following an increase in influenza-like illnesses in the country.

Patients with flu-like symptoms, such as high-grade fever, cough, cold, and sore throat, who visit DOH facilities are tested to identify the virus that caused their illness, Health Undersecretary Eric Tayag said.

"And indeed we confirm that several cases are due to COVID-19 and the other numbers point to influenza A or influenza B," he said.

"We are doing this on a regular basis because we are on a watch out for new pathogens."

Tayag told ANC that there has been a significant increase in influenza-like cases since the start of the year.

Some 190,000 influenza-like cases have been reported so far in the Philippines this year, he said.

Tayag urged doctors to promptly report any unusual clustering of flu-like cases "so that we can investigate and make sure that we also notify authorities as may be needed."

The health official issued the reminder after a reported increase in influenza-like illness in China.

Beijing said there were no "unusual or novel pathogens" in respiratory illnesses spreading in the northern part of the country.

11 MORE GAZA HOSTAGES RELEASED AS ISRAEL-HAMAS TRUCE EXTENDED

The provided text reports that Israel released 11 hostages from the Gaza Strip as part of an extended truce with Hamas. The truce was extended by two days, facilitating further releases. Qatar played a role in negotiations, indicating that 11 Israelis were freed in exchange for 33 Palestinian prisoners, mostly minors. The released Israelis hold dual nationality from France, Germany, and Argentina. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock welcomed the release of the hostages, emphasizing the end of their 52 days of suffering. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to visit the Middle East, focusing on sustaining humanitarian assistance, securing the release of all hostages, and discussing the principles for the future of Gaza. The extension of the humanitarian truce in the Gaza Strip was announced following negotiations involving Qatar, the United States, and Egypt.

ISRAEL FOREIGN MINISTER VISITS FREED PINOY HOSTAGE

MANILA — Gelienor Pacheco, the Filipino hostage recently freed from Hamas captivity, has been discharged from an Israeli hospital. On his first day of freedom, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen visited him at the Yitzhak Shamir Medical Center. Pacheco, a caregiver held for 49 days in Gaza, received warm send-off wishes from the Israeli embassy. Cohen expressed happiness for both Israel and the Philippines, assuring continued support. Foreign citizens, including Pacheco, will receive dedicated care and entitlement to their rights. Israel plans to provide Pacheco and his family lifetime social security benefits, similar to victims of terrorist attacks. Cohen underscored ongoing efforts to free all citizens from Hamas. Ambassador Pedro Laylo expressed the Philippines' gratitude for Israel's role in the hostages' release.

NO TSUNAMI THREAT AFTER PAPUA NEW GUINEA QUAKE — PHILVOCS

MANILA — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvocs) reported on Tuesday that there is no imminent danger of a destructive tsunami in the Philippines following the earthquake that struck Papua New Guinea.

In its 6:02 a.m. bulletin, Phivolcs confirmed there is no risk of a tsunami in the country, reassuring that no action is necessary.

A 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck off northern Papua New Guinea on Tuesday, the US Geological Survey said, with one witness saying the ground swayed "like you are on a boat".

The epicenter was detected at an estimated depth of 12 kilometers (seven miles), the USGS said.

The quake hit about 20 kilometers (12 miles) off the coast, a short distance from the town of Wewak, capital of the Pacific island state's East Sepik Province.

LTO SAYS OVER 60 PCT OF TOTAL VEHICLES IN PH 'UNREGISTERED'

MANILA - The Land Transportation Office on Monday said it discovered that more than half or 60 percent of the total number of vehicles nationwide are unregistered.

Only 14 million out of the 38 million vehicles nationwide are registered, LTO Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza said.

The agency estimates that one of the possible reasons for the large number of unregistered vehicles could be the movement restrictions during the height of the pandemic.

“Isa diyan yung pandemya… kasi yung iba dyan matagal na rin. I wouldn’t be surprised kung yung iba dyan na-scrap na lalo yung motorsiklo na sa tagal nang panahon na dumaan baka hindi na tumatakbo. So we will take that out of our numbers. We will clean our data. For now, yan ang hahabulin ngayon,” Mendoza said.

The agency said the government is losing about P37 to P38 billion this year if the same number of vehicles remain unregistered.

To address the large number of unregistered vehicles, LTO will implement stricter checkpoints. The LTO will continue with the checkpoints next week, but at the same time disseminate information that there will be stricter checks next year.

Mendoza said he would direct their enforcers to check also on four-wheeled vehicles and not only focus on motorcycles.

Aside from checkpoints, the agency is planning to bring vehicle registration sites to the barangay or at transport hubs.

HONTIVEROS FILES RESOLUTION URGING COOPERATION WITH ICC DRUG WAR PROBE

MANILA — Sen. Risa Hontiveros has filed a resolution urging the government to cooperate with the International Criminal Court investigation into potential crimes against humanity in the previous administration’s war on drugs.

The Philippines pulled out of the ICC in 2019, but the Supreme Court pointed out in a 2021 ruling that the government is obliged to cooperate with processes that began while it was still a member.

"The Philippines has historically been at the forefront of advancing humanitarian law and international justice, and it is high time that we reaffirm our commitment to these values before the international community," Hontiveros said in Philippine Senate Resolution No. 867.

Hontiveros, a member of the two-person minority bloc, said that apart from the Rome Statute that the Philippines has withdrawn ratification of, the Constitution commits the Philippines to "value the dignity of every human person and guarantee the full respect for human rights."

She added that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has also "vowed to promote human rights and a 'high level of accountability' for violations."

CHINESE FIGHTER JETS CIRCLE PHILIPPINE AIRCRAFT DURING WEST PH SEA PATROL WITH AUSTRALIA

MANILA — Two Chinese fighter jets circled a Philippine aircraft during joint patrols with Australia in the West Philippine Sea. The incident occurred as the Philippine Air Force's A-29B Super Tucano successfully completed its maritime air patrol task. General Romeo Brawner Jr., Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), stated that such actions by Chinese jets are not unusual and have occurred in previous instances involving the U.S. and Japanese aircraft. He emphasized the legitimacy of the joint patrols with allies, asserting the Philippines' right to patrol territorial seas and exclusive economic zones. The joint patrols with Australia were deemed successful, with no reported untoward incidents. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. stressed the sustainability of the Philippines' maritime cooperative activities with partners and allies, regardless of Chinese attempts to downplay them. Multilateral patrols in the West Philippine Sea with other like-minded nations are under consideration for the future.

CHRISTMAS CONVOY WILL PASS AYUNGIN ON WAY TO PAG-ASA: NSC

MANILA — A planned civilian convoy to bring gifts and donations to areas in the West Philippine Sea will sail near Ayungin Shoal, where BRP Sierra Madre is grounded, but will head to Pag-asa Island to visit troops and residents there, the National Security Council said Tuesday.

The council issued the statement a day after organizer Atin Ito coalition said it had been given clearance to proceed.

The NSC said it had met with organizers and "both parties agreed that a convoy to BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal would not be advisable at this time since safety of the civilian convoy is of paramount importance."

The council said the convoy would instead "pass through the general vicinity of Ayungin Shoal as far as practicable."

Resupply missions to BRP Sierra Madre by civilian boats escorted by Philippine Coast Guard ships have been met with Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels that have used blocking maneuvers and water cannons to deter the Philippine vessels.

The NSC said the convoy will visit Pag-asa Island to visit troops and residents and to turn over donations that will be delivered to the BRP Sierra Madre in the next rotation and resupply mission.

"The agreement ensures the safety and security of the Christmas Convoy, ensures the timely delivery of donated items to our fisherfolk and frontliners, and upholds our sovereign rights to the West Philippine Sea," it also said.

SARA DUTERTE ON MARCOS' NEW STANCE ON ICC COOPERATION: 'YOU NEED TO ASK HIM'

MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte on Monday said that she would insist on her position that the Philippine government should not cooperate with the investigation of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on her father’s bloody drug war.

This statement comes after the recent pronouncement of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. saying that the government is studying the option to “return under the fold of the ICC."

Duterte, however, clarified that she recognizes the authority of Marcos on matters relating to foreign policy.

“We all should respect the position of the President being the chief architect of foreign policy, so iyon po lahat dapat ang posisyon natin,” she told reporters in Manila.

“But we will continue to reach out to the Department of Justice regarding our position on this matter… We will lay down the legal basis of our position with the DOJ,” she added.

Asked for possible reason why Marcos changed his stance on the matter, Duterte said she “cannot speak for the president."

“You need to ask the President on this matter,” she said.

In 2022, Marcos earlier said that the ICC’s ongoing probe into the bloody drug war was a threat to the country’s sovereignty and maintained that the international court has no jurisdiction over the Philippines.

THE REST

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NAIA TERMINAL 3 TO UPGRADE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM NOV 29

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 will upgrade its electrical system on November 29, from midnight to 3 a.m.

Manila International Airport Authority acting GM Bryan Co said the maintenance work is part of its upgrading program, which started mid-2023.

"Nag-commit tayo ng DOTR na i-improve ang electrical system ng buong NAIA complex. May iu-upgrade tayong mga kable kasama ang Meralco dito para tumaas ang capacity at gumanda ang reliability ng Terminal 3 at may isasabay na rin na papalitan na mga equipment na more than 20 years old na. Papalitan natin ng mga brand new na equipment," he said in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview.

He said the maintenance work was timed in the off hours to ensure minimal impact on operations. All critical facilities will remain online.

"We don’t expect any issue sa passenger processing pero merong mga areas na medyo kulang ang ilaw, hindi 100 percent yung pagko-cover natin. Imbes na 3 chillers ang tumatakbo natin, magiging isa na lang dahil madaling araw ito gagawin na inaasahan natin na hindi ganon kalaki ang impact in terms of the passenger comfort," he said.

CENTURY PROPERTIES ACQUIRES RESIDENTIAL VENTURE

MANILA — Century Properties Group on Tuesday said it has fully acquired PHirst, a business that caters to first-time homebuyers.

The property developer said its board of directors in May approved the company’s acquisition of a substantial 40-percent ownership stake previously held by Mitsubishi Corporation in two entities, PHirst Park Homes, Inc. (PPHI) and Tanza Properties, Inc. (TPI).

PPHI was launched in 2017. It aims to launch 15 projects by 2023, which it set out to do with Mitsubishi Corp 5 years ago, Century Properties said.

Century said PHirst thrives in its core affordable product line (P1.5 to P3.5 million) with its PHirst Park Homes Gapan in Nueva Ecija, and the PHirst Impressions Batulao in Nasugbu, Batangas.

It also has its brands PHirst Sights Bay for socialized and economic segments, PHirst Editions Batulao for the mid-income market, and PHirst Centrale Hermosa, a mixed-use township.

PHirst will launch two more projects before the end of the year, bringing its total portfolio to 21.

"We are committed to addressing the housing needs of first-time homebuyers...we now have a platform to address the entire spectrum of the country’s housing backlog,” said Century Pacific Group president and chief executive officer Marco Antonio.

GOV'T LAUNCHES BAGONG PILIPINAS SERBISYO FAIR IN ISABELA

MANILA — House Speaker Martin Romualdez spearheaded the launch of the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) in Isabela, part of a nationwide initiative organized by the Office of the President to aid Filipinos in need. Romualdez emphasized the commitment to assist those striving for a better life, reflecting the ethos of the Bagong Pilipinas. This marked the eighth installment of the service caravan, the first time in Region II. Isabela residents are set to receive P152 million in cash, with a total of P500 million allocated for programs and services benefiting around 100,000 residents. The BPSF involves 26 government agencies providing over 195 services, promoting united development and cooperation. Key services include the Department of Social Welfare and Development's Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations program, expected to assist over 42,000 individuals with a total payout of P140 million. Additionally, province-wide activities include scholarship programs, livelihood assistance, and various services provided by participating agencies. The Isabela launch was hosted by the City of Ilagan, demonstrating the government's outreach to citizens.

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

SAM MILBY SHARES DETAILS OF 2024 WEDDING WITH CATRIONA GRAY

Sam Milby has confirmed that his wedding with Catriona Gray is scheduled in 2024, saying that they are in the thick of preparations for the "intimate" ceremony.

The "Replacing Chef Chico" star was asked about the personal milestone on the sidelines of the 25th anniversary celebration of fasahion designer Francis Libiran on November 27.

Milby, who is turning 40, also shared that he is "ready" to start a family right after the wedding, but said he and Gray are inclined to first enjoy being newlyweds before having a child of their own.

KYLIE VERZOSA CONFIRMS BEING IN 'A PRIVATE RELATIONSHIP'

Beauty queen-turned-actress Kylie Verzosa has confirmed being in a relationship anew, saying her new flame is not Filipino and is not part of showbiz.

Verzosa made the candid admission in an interview with ABS-CBN News on the sidelines of the 25th anniversary celebration of fashion designer Francis Libiran on November 27.

"I'm dating someone. I'm so happy. Honestly, I want to keep it private this time. It's a private relationship, and it's really, really peaceful," she said.

WHY SHARON CUNETA WAS ABSENT AT PREMIERE FOR KC'S FILM 'ASIAN PERSUASION'

MANILA -- Veteran actress Sharon Cuneta turned to social media to express her support to her daughter KC Concepcion, who led the star-studded premiere of the movie "Asian Persuasion" in Mandaluyong City on Monday.

On Instagram, Cuneta explained why she was not able to attend the premiere night of her daughter's film.

"Happy to have received an award tonight but sad I couldn’t make habol to your premiere! Congrats, baby. Love you," she wrote, addressing Concepcion.

Cuneta attended the Philippine Legacy Gala 2023, which was also held on Monday night, where she was given the Philippine Legacy Laurel Award in Music.

Meanwhile, Cuneta reposted Concepcion's post inviting everyone to watch "Asian Persuasion" which opens cinemas on November 29.

During the premiere night of "Asian Persuasion," veteran actor Gabby Concepcion walked down the red carpet with his daughter KC.

Onstage for a quick interview, Concepcion expressed her gratitude to her father, who showed up despite his busy schedule taping a new soap opera with Marian Rivera.

ABS-CBN News caught up with father and daughter on their way to the cinema. KC shared how nervous she was for her father to see what she described as a "humble project."

Minutes before the screening, KC and the rest of the cast attended a short press conference and answered a few questions from the press including the topic of divorce, which is tackled in the movie.

Also in attendance at the red-carpet event were other members of the cast including Filipino-American actors Paolo Montalban and Dante Basco, comedienne Fe delos Reyes and model-actor Kevin Kreider, Geneva Carr, writer Mike Ang and director Jhett Tolentino.

SPORTS

NBA SCORES OF GAMES PLAYED ON NOV 26, 2023

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Trail Blazers

4-12

31        37        20        14        102

Bucks

12-5

26        26        23        33        108

Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, WI

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

J. Grant POR PF

22 PTS , 2 REB , 2 AST

G. Antetokounmpo MIL PF

33 PTS , 16 REB , 6 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Hawks

8-8

26        27        29        21        103

Celtics

13-4

33        36        21        23        113

TD Garden , Boston, MA

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

T. Young ATL PG

33 PTS , 5 REB , 7 AST

J. Tatum BOS PF

34 PTS , 9 REB , 4 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Hornets

5-10

33        24        29        31        117

Magic

12-5

25        36        31        38        130

Amway Center, Orlando, FL

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

M. Bridges CHA PF

23 PTS , 10 REB , 2 AST

F. Wagner ORL PF

30 PTS , 7 REB , 2 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Timberwolves

12-4

31        29        30        29        119

Grizzlies

3-13

26        17        23        31        97

FedExForum, Memphis, TN

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

A. Edwards MIN SG

24 PTS , 5 REB , 7 AST

J. Jackson Jr. MEM PF

18 PTS , 4 REB , 3 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Suns

11-6

34        30        31        21        116

Knicks

9-7

22        34        36        21        113

Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

D. Booker PHO SG

28 PTS , 5 REB , 11 AST

J. Brunson NY PG

35 PTS , 6 REB , 8 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Bulls

5-13

36        19        28        26        109

Nets

8-8

19        44        33        22        118

Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

D. DeRozan CHI SG

27 PTS , 5 REB , 6 AST

S. Dinwiddie BKN PG

24 PTS , 5 REB , 7 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Raptors

8-9

28        24        20        30        102

Cavaliers

9-8

25        17        32        31        105

Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, Cleveland, OH

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

P. Siakam TOR PF

18 PTS , 8 REB , 6 AST

D. Garland CLE PG

24 PTS , 2 REB , 8 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Spurs

3-14

35        25        24        36        120

Nuggets

11-6

39        33        35        25        132

Ball Arena, Denver, CO

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

V. Wembanyama SA PF

22 PTS , 11 REB , 2 AST

N. Jokic DEN C

39 PTS , 11 REB , 9 AST

INDICATORS

FOREX $1 = P 55.38

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Power does not corrupt. Fear corrupts. Perhaps the fear of a loss of power. - John Stienbeck