'PAMBANSANG PABAHAY PROGRAM' TAKES OFF IN METRO MANILA

MANILA — The Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH), aimed to address the country's housing backlog, has started to take off in Metro Manila.

During the Metro Manila Council (MMC) meeting held on Wednesday at the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority headquarters in Pasig City on Wednesday, Housing Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) has 170,000 units or 55 projects in different locations in Metro Manila that are currently in construction.

The 4PH program is the government's flagship program designed to address the need for decent housing. Informal settlers will be temporarily relocated to the government staging areas for at least two years while the 4PH project is under construction. They will be permanently transferred to their new housing areas once completed.

Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos said LGUs in Metro Manila have a big role in identifying idle government lands that can be used for the government’s housing program and staging areas that will serve as temporary shelters.

“The informal settler families will not be displaced as we plan in-city relocation,” said Abalos.

MMDA Acting Chairman Don Artes, who presided over the MMC meeting, said the Metro Manila mayors will provide an inventory of informal settler families in their jurisdiction. They will also identify government-owned open spaces suitable for staging sites.

“We will create a Technical Working Group that will be closely working together for the submission of LGUs’ inventories of all available and suitable lands for the program,” said Artes.

For his part, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, MMC president, assured the program Metro Manila’s cooperation.

“It is my vision for San Juan to be Informal Settler Families-free, and this project is an opportunity to make it possible and provide the ISFs with decent housing all over Metro Manila,” Zamora also said.

Zamora said the LGUs can also give incentives to owners who will allow the use of their idle properties as staging areas.

COMELEC VOWS TO BE TRANSPARENT, METICULOUS IN EXAMINATION OF MIRU

MANILA - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) pledges transparency and meticulous scrutiny in evaluating the qualifications of the sole bidder, the joint venture of South Korean firm Miru Systems Company Limited, for the P18.827 billion contract for the 2025 automated elections. The bid includes the lease of the Full Automation System with Transparency Audit/Count (FASTrAC), covering automated counting machines, ballots, and canvassing.

Concerns arise over Miru Systems' performance in previous elections in Iraq and Congo, where machine issues led to election disputes and manual recounts. The company's machines were not used in Argentina due to local IT concerns about their security and accuracy.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia emphasizes a stringent post-qualification process for Miru Systems, a critical step to determine if the awarding of the contract will proceed. He assures the public that the second bidding's selection process was transparent, with live streaming and the presence of media, citizens' arms, and the Commission on Audit.

The Comelec plans to open bids for transmission in the second or third week of February, emphasizing the need to award the contract by the last week of March. The commitment to transparency and thorough evaluation aims to address concerns and ensure the integrity of the automated election system in 2025.

LTFRB NOT READY FOR PUV MODERNIZATION: LAWMAKER

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is facing criticism for its perceived lack of readiness in implementing the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) modernization program, according to Rep. Agustina Pancho, vice-chairperson of the House of Representatives committee on transportation. In a congressional meeting, Pancho highlighted the apparent unpreparedness of the LTFRB and its failure to consult with jeepney drivers and operators. She attributed the shortcomings to the previous administration.

Pancho urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to thoroughly study the PUV modernization program, expressing concerns about the potential harm it may cause to the large sector of drivers, operators, and their families. She emphasized the need to assess the financial capability of jeepney drivers/operators and raised doubts about the creation of cooperatives.

The PUV modernization program mandates individual operators to consolidate or join cooperatives for streamlined bank loan processing. During a hearing, a driver-operator shared how they lost ownership and rights over their jeepneys after joining a company, facing legal issues such as carnapping charges when attempting to reclaim their vehicles.

Amid concerns raised by lawmakers, the LTFRB agreed to review the program's implementation to address these issues. The lawmaker's critique underscores challenges in the modernization process, including inadequate consultation and potential negative impacts on the livelihoods of drivers and operators.

PH IS 73RD MOST POWERFUL PASSPORT IN THE WORLD: GLOBAL INDEX

MANILA -- The Philippines is the world's 73rd most powerful passport, jumping 5 spots from its 78th spot in 2023, according to Henley Global Passport Index released Thursday.

The ranking is based on the total number of destinations a holder can visit visa-free as well as their Henley Passport Power (HPP), which indicates the percentage of global GDP each passport provides, Henley& Partners said in a report.

Each visa-free destination is equivalent to a score of 1, based on the report that uses data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as well as the World Bank.

The Philippine passport ranked 80th in 2022, 77th in 2021, and 74th in 2020, based on the same index.

Six countries--Japan, Singapore, France, Italy, Germany, and Spain--dominated the top spot in this year's ranking--with their citizens able to visit 194 out of 227 global destinations visa-free.

Tied in the second spot are Finland and South Korea, whose passport holders are able to travel to 193 destinations.

In the 2023 ranking, Japan took the top spot, while Singapore and South Korea tied at second.

In the 3rd spot this year are Austria, Denmark, Ireland, and the Netherlands with a score of 192. Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, and the United Kingdom are in the fourth spot with a score of 191. Meanwhile, Greece, Malta, and Switzerland are in 5th with a score of 190.

Afghanistan is still the least powerful passport in the world, although its score went up to 28 from last year's 27.

TOP 10 MOST POWER PASSPORTS ACCORDING TO HENLEY PASSPORT INDEX:

1 Japan, Singapore, France, Italy, Germany, and Spain (visa-free score 194)

2 South Korea, Finland (193)

3 Austria, Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands (192)

4 Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, United Kingdom (191)

5 Greece, Malta, and Switzerland (190)

6 Australia, Czechia, New Zealand, Poland (189)

7 Canada, Hungary, United States (188)

8 Estonia, Lithuania (187)

9 Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia (186)

10 Iceland (185)

SENATORS GRILL NGCP OVER PANAY ISLAND BLACKOUT

MANILA - Senators questioned the National Grid Corporation (NGCP) over the recent four-day blackout in Panay and Guimaras, with Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas expressing anger over the suffering of residents. Treñas demanded accountability, citing an estimated loss of 2 billion pesos in Iloilo City alone, and called for a thorough review of the PUV modernization program. Governors of Iloilo and Guimaras contemplated legal action for damages, while the NGCP maintained it followed protocols and found no abnormalities during the power plant shutdowns.

Senate Energy Committee chair Raffy Tulfo deemed the NGCP's response unacceptable, demanding the revocation of its franchise. The Energy Regulatory Commission revealed that NGCP did not submit outage reports promptly, raising concerns about negligence. Senators Hontiveros and Tolentino suggested a franchise review if negligence is proven.

Senator Gatchalian criticized the NGCP for not implementing manual load drops to prevent power plant shutdowns. The ERC highlighted interventions available to the system operator, while investigations into the incident are ongoing. NGCP emphasized its efforts to address the situation and awaits data from affected power plants, asserting that transmission parameters remained within normal ranges. The complex issue involves regional leaders, the NGCP's adherence to protocols, and ongoing investigations into the blackout's causes and management.

DEADLIER TYPE OF FATTY LIVER DISEASE INCREASING IN THE PHILIPPINES — DOCTORS

As the immediate threat of the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and a semblance of normalcy returns, there's a growing emphasis on health awareness and vigilance. One persistent but often undetected health concern is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), affecting 10-20% of the Philippine population and approximately 38% globally. NAFLD, characterized by excess fat accumulation in the liver, poses a significant risk, particularly among individuals with Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity, and Cardiovascular conditions.

Dr. Jose Sollano, a Hepatologist, underscores the global challenge posed by NAFLD, urging awareness and proactive health management. The disease, ranging from simple fatty liver to more severe forms like Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), can lead to liver diseases, cardiovascular issues, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even liver failure or cancer. Genetic, lifestyle, environmental, and metabolic factors contribute to NAFLD, with a subset termed "lean NAFLD" affecting even those not overweight.

While medications like Semaglutide are recommended for weight loss and NAFLD management, accessibility challenges persist. Experts agree that self-care, including conscious dietary and lifestyle choices, is crucial in addressing and preventing NAFLD. Timely detection through non-invasive methods like Fibro scan is essential, with additional tests and a healthier diet to lose weight and reduce alcohol intake. Dr. Limuel Abrogena stresses the importance of familial support in preventing NAFLD, advocating a culture of self-care and conscious choices to control liver health and contribute to a healthier future.

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DOH TESTS WATER IN BAGUIO AMID DIARRHEA OUTBREAK

MANILA — The Department of Health on Thursday said it was testing water sources in Baguio City following a diarrhea outbreak in the city.

The increase in diarrhea cases started last December 21, according to the DOH, citing preliminary findings of the Baguio City Health Office.

From December 21 to January 7 or after 18 days, the DOH recorded 308 diarrhea cases in the City of Pines.

The agency said 11 individuals were "admitted to surrounding hospitals" and added that "no death" was reported.

Diarrhea — or when someone experiences loose and watery stool and feels the urgent need to use the toilet — is caused by various factors, including viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections from contaminated food or water.

The health agency said one should ensure hydration when experiencing diarrhea by drinking replacement fluids or clean water with oral rehydration solution.

"Water may be boiled for two minutes (start timer after water comes to a rolling boil). The use of chlorine-based water disinfection solution or tablets, if available in health centers, is also recommended," the DOH said.

"The public is also advised to report any change in color or odor of their household tap water," it added.

The DOH also urged the public to always use clean water for preparing drinks, cooking, washing eating and cooking utensils, brushing teeth, and washing their hands and face.

Affected areas in Baguio City will be provided clean potable water pending the final result of its water testing.

VOLCANIC SMOG HITS TOWNS AROUND TAAL ANEW

MANILA —  Volcanic smog or vog was reported yesterday in towns around Taal Volcano following an increase in sulfur dioxide emissions, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

State seismologists said vog was observed from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Lemery and parts of Agoncillo and Laurel.

Wind speed of two to four meters per second was monitored, leading to the accumulation of gasses.

Phivolcs said upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the main crater lake that generated plumes reaching 1,500 to 2,400 meters was also monitored.

The agency said vog in the next few days would depend on wind condition in the areas surrounding the volcano.

Sulfur dioxide emissions of 10,933 tons per day were recorded on Monday.

The emissions have been on an uptrend since December, averaging 10,000 tons per day.

They reached a record high of around 12,000 tons on Jan. 4.

Meanwhile, no volcanic earthquake was recorded in the volcano yesterday.

‘DOWNGRADE ABU KIDNAP THREAT IN SULU-CELEBES SEAS’

ZAMBOANGA CITY — A Singapore-based anti-piracy and high sea robbery monitoring group has recommended the downgrading of the threat of kidnapping by Abu Sayyaf bandits in the waters at the border of Malaysia and the Philippines.

In its report last week, the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery (ReCAAP) said the threat of kidnapping in the Sulu-Celebes Seas should be downgraded from “moderate” to “moderate low.”

The group said there was no report of kidnapping in the area in 2023, citing the security measures being implemented by the Philippines and Malaysia in addressing cross-border and high seas kidnapping.

At a briefing, ReCAAP executive director Krishnaswamy Natarajan noted the concerted efforts of Philippine and Malaysian authorities in thwarting kidnapping and piracy by Abu Sayyaf bandits.

“Which implies that incidents are unlikely to occur due to the perpetrators’ perceived lack of capability to orchestrate an attack,” the ReCAAP said in its weekly reassessment.

However, the monitoring group issued an advisory to ships to exercise vigilance and adopt necessary preventive measures while transiting in the area.

It said incidents should be immediately reported to the operation centers of the Philippines and Eastern Sabah Security Command of Malaysia.

Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, Joint Task Force Orion commander, said the surrender of Abu Sayyaf members and assistance provided for their rehabilitation prevented the former militants from engaging in crimes.

Patrimonio said the neutralization of suicide bombing mastermind Mudzrimar Sawadjaan, alias Mundi, last December was instrumental in the declaration of Sulu as Abu Sayyaf-free.

SHEAR LINE, AMIHAN TO BRING RAINS IN EASTERN LUZON

A newly formed shear line and the surging northeast monsoon or Amihan will bring rains in the eastern section of Luzon Thursday, weather bureau PAGASA said.

The shear line, which forms when the cool Amihan and the warm Easterlies blowing from the Pacific meet, will bring scattered rains in Bicol Region and Quezon.

The weather bureau warned against possible flooding and landslides in these areas during occasions of moderate to at time times heavy rains.

On the other hand, light rains will be experienced in Cagayan Valley and Aurora due to the Amihan.

While generally fair weather will be experienced in Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon, isolated light rains may also be possible.

Visayas and Mindanao will be warm and humid with possible isolated afternoon or evening thunderstorms.

The shear line is forecast to bring rains over Bicol and Eastern Visayas through the weekend, as the strong Amihan will persist.

However, no weather disturbance is seen to affect the country until weekend.

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

KATHRYN BERNARDO UNFOLLOWS DANIEL PADILLA ON INSTAGRAM

MANILA -- It seems that Kapamilya actress Kathryn Bernardo is intent on moving forward from her separation with actor Daniel Padilla.

More than a month after their split, eagle-eyed netizens noticed that Bernardo is no longer following her former boyfriend on Instagram.

Last December, Bernardo shared an update about her life, posting: "No looking back, only moving forward.”

Just recently, the two were spotted at the the wedding of their fellow Kapamilya artist Robi Domingo.

Some fans speculate that the unfollowing may simply be a part of their healing process and an effort to create distance to move forward as individuals. Others believe it could signify a deeper rift between the former couple.

As of now, neither Bernardo nor Padilla has provided any specific reason behind their digital disconnections.

Bernardo and Padilla separately took to Instagram to announce that they have ended their 11-year relationship last November 30.

SPORTS

PBA SCORES JAN 10

Phoenix def. Meralco, 93-83 (31-19, 54-47, 78-66, 93-83)

NLEX def. Converge, 107-103 (25-22, 51-43, 80-81, 107-103)

NBA SCORES OF GAMES PLAYED ON JAN 9, 2024

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Timberwolves

26-10

33        34        23        23        113

Magic

21-16

16        21        29        26        92

Kia Center, Orlando, FL

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

K. Towns MIN C

28 PTS , 6 REB , 5 AST

M. Wagner ORL C

21 PTS , 8 REB , 2 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Kings

22-14

29        40        29        33        131

Pistons

3-34

47        18        30        15        110

Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

D. Sabonis SAC C

37 PTS , 10 REB , 13 AST

B. Bogdanovic DET SF

26 PTS , 5 REB , 2 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Trail Blazers

10-26

22        19        20        23        84

Knicks

22-15

38        25        34        15        112

Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

J. Grant POR PF

21 PTS , 2 REB

O. Anunoby NY SF

23 PTS , 4 REB

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Grizzlies

14-23

29        39        35        17        120

Mavericks

22-16

22        31        30        20        103

American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

D. Bane MEM SG

32 PTS , 9 REB , 4 AST

K. Irving DAL PG

33 PTS , 8 REB , 4 AST

Final

1          2          3          4          T

Raptors

15-22

24        29        36        42        131

Lakers

19-19

28        23        37        44        132

Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

S. Barnes TOR SF

26 PTS , 3 REB , 6 AST

A. Davis LAL PF

41 PTS , 11 REB , 6 AST

FEMALE REFEREES TO MAKE HISTORY AT ASIAN CUP IN QATAR

Among the roster for the latest edition of the tournament are Australia's Kate Jacewicz and Japan's Yoshimi Yamashita, who was involved during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. In all, five female officials will take part in the Asian Cup.

“I have always seen myself as just a football person within football," Jacewicz said when asked about breaking down barriers.

"I started playing with the boys because there wasn’t a lot of women’s teams so therefore I then transitioned into whistling men’s or boy’s football, so I have never really seen it as a gender thing. It is just a game, it is 90 minutes, it is 11 v 11, it is very similar."

All officials were put through their paces during a training session at the Qatar Sports Club on Wednesday, ahead of the tournament's opening match on Friday between Qatar and Lebanon.

That will be officiated by Iran's Alireza Faghani.

INDICATORS

FOREX $1 = P 56.27

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

But what is happiness except the simple harmony between a man and the life he leads? - Albert Camus