MARCOS SAYS PHILIPPINES ON 'FRONTLINE' OF MARITIME DISPUTES, WILL NOT CEDE 'ONE SQUARE INCH'

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos addressed Australia's parliament, emphasizing his country's role in maintaining regional peace amid maritime disputes with China. Marcos pledged to defend the Philippines' sovereignty, stating, "I will not allow any attempt by any foreign power to take even one square inch of our sovereign territory." He highlighted the recent presence of Chinese navy vessels near the Scarborough Shoal as a worrisome development.

The South China Sea is crucial for regional trade, providing a key route for the import and export of essential fuel, food, and other goods. The Philippines, along with other countries supported by the United States, argues for the waterway to remain free and open. China's aggressive actions in claiming vast maritime territories and deploying warships in disputed areas have raised concerns among its neighbors.

Marcos stressed the importance of protecting the South China Sea, calling it a critical global artery for peace. He emphasized that preserving regional stability in this area is not only crucial for the region but also for global peace. Marcos's speech underscores the Philippines' commitment to defending its sovereignty and seeking support from the international community to address maritime challenges in the region.

MARCOS JR.: CHA-CHA PLEBISCITE BEFORE 2025 POLLS COSTLY

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos stated that holding the Charter change plebiscite separately from the 2025 elections would be costly and challenging. He prefers conducting the referendum alongside the midterm polls to save government resources. Separating the two would essentially mean holding two elections, which is not only expensive but also logistically difficult, as it would disrupt preparations for the polls.

Senate President Zubiri mentioned that Marcos wants the plebiscite to coincide with the 2025 elections, citing a significant cost of P12 billion to P14 billion if held separately. However, the House of Representatives aims to conduct the plebiscite by July 2024 and approve the amendments to economic provisions before March 22.

Despite Zubiri's statement, administration lawmakers maintain their timetable, awaiting Marcos's direct stance. Marcos expressed the need to discuss the House's timetable with Speaker Romualdez, indicating that holding the plebiscite concurrently with local elections could be more practical.

Marcos clarified that the proposed amendments are focused on economic provisions, dispelling concerns about lifting term limits. The administration is considering the mechanisms for conducting the plebiscite, with resolutions progressing in both chambers. Holding the plebiscite alongside the elections could streamline the process and reduce costs, aligning with the government's practical approach to governance.

DUTERTE BACKTRACKS ON DRUG CLAIMS VS MARCOS, MINDANAO SECESSION

MANILA, Philippines — Former president Rodrigo Duterte denied on Tuesday that he accused his successor President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. of abusing drugs.

"Si Presidente? Wala akong sinabi na ganoon, even if you kill me a thousand times, wala akong sinabi. Taking a drug, pero kung sabihin mong adik, wala akong sinabi na ganoon," he said in a press conference in Davao City.

Duterte told a large crowd of supporters in Davao City last month: "Bongbong, bangag yan. May drug addict tayo na president."

"Noong ako ay mayor, pinakitaan ako ng evidence ng PDEA. Doon sa listahan, nandoon yung pangalan mo. Ayaw kong sabihin yan kasi magkaibigan tayo. Kung hindi magkaibigan, magkakilala… eh ikaw eh, pumapasok kayo ng alanganin. Mr. President, baka susunod ka sa dinaanan ng tatay mo. Diyan ako takot, ayaw kong mangyari sa iyo yan,” he said.

But in his latest remarks, Duterte said drugs could also refer to medical drugs.

"Ayaw'g ingna nga wala kay antibiotic kaniadto, wala kay aspirin ('wag mong sabihin na wala kang antibiotic dati, wala kang aspirin.) They are all drugs," he said.

Duterte also declined to further discuss plans about the Mindanao independence movement, which he floated earlier.

“It has always been the dream of some people to be independent, pero if it causes a rupture in our entire system sa republika, I will not go for it. Meaning I will not go for a force carving...Mindanao out of the Philippines,” he said.

“I do not want my country dismembered. I do not want a part of my country taken away. I do not want my country to be disturbed physically even the slightest. It goes for Luzon hanggang Jolo,” he added.

GRAB PHILIPPINES COMMENDS MARCOS, ROMUALDEZ ON TRANSPO REFORMS

MANILA, Philippines – Grab Philippines thanks President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Speaker Martin Romualdez for their decisive action to prioritize the legalization of motorcycle taxis (MC Taxis) and reform the Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) regulations.

This significant step is not only a stride towards creating more jobs but also a leap in improving the transport conditions for millions of commuters.

Grab Philippines Country Head Grace Vera Cruz shared, “Thank you, President Marcos and Speaker Romualdez, for heeding the call to prioritize MC Taxi Legalization and reforming TNVS Regulations. Your leadership in this pivotal moment will create numerous job opportunities and markedly improve the commuting experience across the nation."

"We are humbled and honored to be recognized as a true partner of the Philippine government and our kababayans in achieving this milestone. Our commitment to being the champion for commuters and drivers remains steadfast, as we continue to match our words with tangible actions. Our approach is, and always will be, to work collaboratively with the government and community stakeholders to achieve the best outcomes for the Filipino people," Vera Cruz added.

Job creation, digitalization

During the meeting between Grab Holdings executives with the President, Grab proudly shared its significant contribution to the nation's economy, having helped ease unemployment by 1.1% from 2019 to 2021.

In 2023 alone, Grab's on-demand rides and delivery business has been instrumental in creating over 100,000 new livelihood opportunities, showcasing the company's role in fueling economic growth and stability.

Moreover, Grab's efforts have digitalized more than 15,000 MSMEs in 2023, empowering small and medium enterprises to thrive in the digital economy. This initiative not only supports business growth but also enhances access to goods and services for Filipino consumers.

METRO MANILA LGUS FORMALIZE REGULATION OF E-VEHICLES

MANILA, Philippines — All 17 local government units of Metro Manila will soon enforce ordinances regulating the use of electric vehicles and imposing fines on offenders.

The Metro Manila Council (MMC), composed of the mayors of the 17 Metro Manila LGUs, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) came up with a resolution containing rules that would govern the use of e-bicycles, e-tricycles, kuliglig and e-scooters.

The MMC and MMDA will require users of e-vehicles to secure a driver’s license, according to acting MMDA Chairman Romando Artes.

Under MMDA Regulation No. 24-022 series of 2024, the agency banned e-vehicles along major roads under its watch, particularly circumferential roads such as Recto Avenue or C-1, Quirino Avenue or C-2, Araneta Avenue or C-3, EDSA or C-5, Katipunan Avenue and C. P. Garcia Avenue or C-5 and Southeast Metro Manila Expressway or C-6.

E-vehicles will also be prohibited along radial roads like Roxas Boulevard or R-1, Taft Avenue or R-2, South Superhighway or R-3, Shaw Boulevard or R-4, Ortigas Avenue or R-5, Magsaysay Boulevard and Aurora Boulevard or R-6, Quezon Avenue and Commonwealth Avenue or R-7, A. Bonifacio Avenue or R-8, Rizal Avenue or R-9, and Del Pan/Marcos Highway/MacArthur Highway or collectively R-10.

The ban also covers Elliptical Road, Mindanao Avenue and Marcos Highway, the MMDA added.

The MMDA would impose a P2,500 on e-vehicle users caught traversing these roads and impound the vehicles, Artes declared.

Meanwhile, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora – also MMC president – said each of the 17 Metro Manila LGUs would pass their respective ordinances tackling similar prohibitions, as well as identifying more roads in their respective areas covered by the ban.

Artes pointed out that the rules may become effective by April this year as they have to be studied by the Land Transportation Office.

UP-DILIMAN TOP PHILIPPINES HEI FOR 2024 – WEBOMETRICS

MANILA, Philippines — The University of the Philippines (UP)-Diliman, Quezon City website was ranked first among Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs) on the 2024 Webometrics Ranking of World Universities, which tracks the impact and linkages of higher education websites.

At least 363 HEIs in the Philippines landed in the global rankings, which rated nearly 12,000 universities and colleges globally.

Three of UP’s websites landed on the list: its UP Diliman, UP System and UP Manila sites. UP System’s website was ranked third in the Philippines.

De La Salle University Manila was ranked second, while Ateneo de Manila University and the University of Santo Tomas were ranked fourth and fifth, respectively.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Top 10 are the University of San Carlos, UP Manila, Mapua University, Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology and Visayas State University.

The world site rankings are published by the Cybermetrics Lab of the Spanish National Research Council, Spain’s largest public research body.

It tracks HEIs through the volume of content on their website, the visibility of these content and the impact of the published materials based on how much these are linked to other research materials online.

It also ranks schools based on impact, openness and excellence. Globally, UP Diliman was ranked 775th, 2039th and 1107th in the three areas, respectively.

Started in 2004, the Cybermetrics Lab said the ranking was intended to motivate schools and researchers “to have a web presence that reflect accurately their activities.”

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SENIORS, PWDS TO GET P500 MONTHLY GROCERY DISCOUNT

MANILA, Philippines —  The monthly grocery discount for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) will be increased to P500 in March.

A trade official hinted that Speaker Martin Romualdez’s request to increase the discount may be carried out next month.

“We’re working so that the usual P65 per week discount for senior citizens and PWDs may be increased to P125,” Trade Undersecretary Carolina Sanchez said, which means an increase to P500 from the current P260 monthly discount on groceries and other commodities.

Romualdez earlier sought a hike in the five percent grocery discount that seniors and PWDs enjoy weekly, currently capped at a total purchase value of P1,500 or a P65 weekly discount.

He said this is no longer appropriate, given the rising cost of living.

“I am delighted to welcome the imminent implementation of increased discounts for our senior citizens and PWDs,” he said.

Sanchez noted that while the process of consultation with stakeholders is still ongoing, the necessary inter-agency circular to implement the additional discount would likely be issued and take effect in March.

“It’s a joint issuance between the DA (Department of Agriculture), DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) and the DOE (Department of Energy),” she said.

DIAMOND HOTEL RELEASES STATEMENT AFTER ALLEGED BODY-SHAMING INCIDENT

MANILA, Philippines — Diamond Hotel released a statement after a viral social media post calling them out for alleged body shaming.

In its Facebook account, the hotel said they are now investigating the matter to take appropriate actions.

"Diamond Hotel Philippines is aware of a recent Facebook post that brought attention to an alleged incident concerning an internship applicant," it said.

"We want to assure everyone that the hotel does not tolerate such behavior and take these claims seriously," it added.

In a now viral post, Carlo Tandico called out the hotel's human resource office and managers for the alleged body shaming of his girlfriend.

"My girlfriend  is looking for a 3-5 Star Hotel where she can do her internship/OJT as required by her school. I know she's been tired for two consecutive weeks, looking and going around Metro Manila and Tagaytay.

"She then received a text message last Wednesday for an interview from Diamond Hotel. We have been delighted as finally, this will made her dream come true to finish her college. She went last Thursday and spoke with one of your Managers and she was called as 'Gasul' kasi daw, 'Maliit kana nga, mataba pa.' Manager added, 'That's true! Magreduce ka!'."

The Internet user asked for an apology from the hotel.

"I'm calling you out Diamond Hotel! I dont want others to feel what my girlfriend had experienced. She deserve an apology. Hence, this shouldn't be normalized."

PHILIPPINE KITEBOARDING TOUR FINALE SLATED IN BORACAY

MANILA, Philippines – The final leg of the ICTSI Philippine Kiteboarding Tour promises an exhilarating showcase of talent and excitement on Boracay Island when it is held beginning Friday, March 1, at the Aqua Resort along Bulabog beach.

More than 80 kiteboarding athletes, led by top local riders and skilled riders from the US, Middle East, China and Europe, brace for a three-day duel of skills, innovation and daring maneuvers against the stunning backdrop of Boracay’s coastline.

Jay Ortiz, president of the Philippine Kiteboarding Association (PKA) and the tournament organizer, expressed excitement about hosting the final leg in Boracay, renowned for its perfect conditions and breathtaking scenery.

He emphasized the event’s significance in highlighting the PKA’s commitment to nurturing Filipino talent for the international stage.

The competition will feature various categories, including Hangtime, where competitors aim to stay airborne for the longest duration. This gravity-defying spectacle is sure to keep kiteboarding enthusiasts and adrenaline-seekers captivated.

Freestyle events will showcase tricks, spins and flips, providing a visual feast for spectators and judges, while the racing segment, featuring both twin tip and foil boards, will demonstrate competitors’ speed, precision and tactical prowess in navigating the azure waters.

The ICTSI PKA Tour is more than just a competition, it’s a celebration of the vibrant kiteboarding community. With Boracay’s pristine beaches, turquoise waters and consistent winds, the event aims to become a landmark on the international kiteboarding calendar.

STRONG QUAKES SHAKE SURIGAO DEL SUR

MANILA — Strong earthquakes shook parts of Surigao del Sur on Thursday morning, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said.

Two above-5 magnitude quakes — registered at 5.3 and 5.4 — struck the waters off Cagwait town in Surigao del Sur.

The tremors occurred minutes apart past 8 a.m. and had approximately the same epicenter.

During the twin quakes, Hinatuan town felt a "strong" Intensity 5, while Bislig City felt a "moderately strong" Intensity 4, the seismology agency said, noting that aftershocks and damage were not expected.

Phivolcs said Thursday's quakes were an aftershock of the 6.8-magnitude event that struck Surigao del Sur in December last year.

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

SAM MILBY, CATRIONA GRAY 'FACING SOME CHALLENGES'

MANILA -- Cornerstone Management, the talent management company of Catriona Gray and Sam Milby, has issued a statement on the couple's relationship status.

Part of the statement reads, "While it is true that Sam and Catriona are currently facing some challenges in their relationship, they are working on resolving these issues together."

"We kindly request that everyone respect their privacy during this time as they navigate through this situation. We appreciate the concern and well-wishes from all those who have shown support for the couple."

Rumors that Milby and Gray have broken up have been circulating online in recent days.

Gray and Milby were first romantically linked in late 2019 and twent public with their relationship mid-2020. They revealed the news about their engagement last February 2023.

SPORTS

BLACKWATER DEF. MERALCO, 96-93 (PBA) FEBRUARY 28

Blackwater Bossing escaped past the Meralco Bolts, 96-93 in the opening day of the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup on Wednesday, February 28 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Rey Nambatac led the Bossing in his Blackwater debut with a double-double of 27 points on 6-of-15 shooting, including 3-of-8 from beyond the arc, along with 5 rebounds, and a new career-high of ten assists in 32 minutes of play. James Yap also made his debut for Blackwater, tallying five points (2/5FG, 1/3 3pts) and one rebound in thirteen minutes.

Troy Rosario finished with 15 points, 4 rebounds, two assists, and a steal while Rey Suerte added 11 points, 4 rebounds, three assists and one steal.

The Scores:

BLACKWATER 96 - Nambatac 27, Rosario 15, Suerte 11, Hill 10, Digregorio 9, David 7, Escoto 6, Yap 5, Guinto 5, Jopia 1, Ilagan 0, Kwekuteye 0, Sena 0.

MERALCO 93 – Maliksi 27, Newsome 16, Black 10, Mendoza 10, Jose 10, Hodge 6, Banchero 5, Quinto 3, Bates 3, Torres 3, Caram 0, Pasaol 0, Pascual 0.

Quarters: 18-26, 43-41, 72-62, 96-93.

TNT DEF. RAIN OR SHINE, 108-107 (PBA) FEBRUARY 28

TNT Tropang GIGA secured a come-from-behind victory over the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 108-107 in the opening day of the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup on Wednesday, February 28 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Five Tropang Giga players finished in double-digits, with Calvin Oftana leading the way by securing a double-double of 23 points, 14 rebounds, three assists, and a steal. RR Pogoy and Kim Aurin were hot from beyond the arc. Pogoy finished with 22 points (4/5 3pts), along with 1 rebound and a steal, while Aurin added 21 points on 5-of-7 threes, 1 rebound, one assist, and two steals.

In his TNT debut, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser notched a double-double with 15 points on 6-of-13 shooting, along with 14 rebounds and three assists in 30 minutes of play. Veteran guard Jayson Castro delivered a solid game with 14 points, 4 rebounds, a game-high seven assists, and one steal resulting in a win for Chot Reyes in his first game back as the head coach of the Tropang Giga.

"To be honest, I don’t know how we won that game. I think we were just lucky that Rain or Shine missed their free throws. We gave away too many free throws. If Rain or Shine made half of the free throws that they missed, I think we would have lost this ballgame easily. We dodged a bullet in this ballgame.” coach Reyes said during the post-game press conference.

The Scores:

TNT 108 - Oftana 23, Pogoy 22, Aurin 21, B. Ganuelas-Rosser 15, Castro 14, Galinato 4, Khobuntin 4, M. Ganuelas-Rosser 3, Montalbo 2, Williams 0, Ebona 0, Reyes 0, Heruela 0, Ponferada 0.

RAIN OR SHINE 107 – Santillan 20, Nocum 20, Caracut 15, Ildefonso 11, Belga 10, Datu 8, Clarito 6, Demusis 6, Mamuyac 5, Borboran 4, Norwood 2, Concepcion 0.

Quarters: 26-26, 51-52, 83-88, 108-107.

INDICATORS

FOREX $1 = P 56.25

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

The best thing about the future is that it comes only one day at a time. - Abraham Lincoln