MARCOS SAYS PAF MARITIME PATROLS 'ESSENTIAL' AMID ASIA-PACIFIC GEOPOLITICAL ROW

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday highlighted the importance of the Philippine Air Force's (PAF) maritime patrols amid persistent geopolitical tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.

During the PAF's 76th founding anniversary at Clark Air Base in Pampanga, Marcos described PAF's maritime patrols as "essential in upholding our territorial integrity and safeguarding Philippine maritime zones."

"The days ahead will not be easy and will demand every ounce of our strength and our resilience. The winds of change signal geopolitical challenges around our region and other parts of the world that affect us," he told PAF personnel.

As the military commander-in-chief, Marcos also reaffirmed his administration's support for the Armed Forces of the Philippines, which he said was seen in the acquisitions under the AFP modernization program.

He also thanked PAF personnel for their contributions in "laying the groundwork for the enhancement" of the country's defense capabilities.

During the anniversary celebration, Marcos also awarded several PAF servicemen for their achievements that he said exemplified the branch's values: integrity, excellence, and patriotism.

"As members of the Philippine Air Force, you must always uphold these values as the custodians of our skies, entrusted with the task of upholding our national interests, protecting our people and defending our territory," he said.

Before leading the anniversary rites at Clark, Marcos also attended PAF's capability demonstration at the Col. Ernesto Rabina Air Base in Tarlac.

AD AGENCY APOLOGIZES OVER USE OF STOCK FOOTAGE IN 'LOVE THE PHILIPPINES' VIDEO

MANILA — Advertising agency DDB Philippines on Sunday apologized for its "apparent use" of non-original and stock footage in the Department of Tourism's (DOT) audio-visual presentation to launch the Philippines' new tourism slogan.

In a statement, the agency "profusely apologized" to DOT Secretary Christina Frasco, adding that it would "take full responsibility" for the alleged blunder.

DDB said the presentation, which drew flak on social media over the weekend, was intended to be a "mood video to excite internal stakeholders about the campaign."

It also clarified that the video was produced by the DDB at its own expense and initiative, and that "no public funds were released" to fund its production.

"While the use of stock footage in mood videos is standard practice in the industry, the use of foreign stock footage was an unfortunate oversight on our agency’s part. Proper screening and approval processes should have been strictly followed. The use of foreign stock footage in a campaign promoting the Philippines is highly inappropriate, and contradictory to the DOT’s objectives," the agency said.

The video has since been taken down, DDB added, noting that it was an "isolated incident" and subsequent advertising materials on the new "Love The Philippines" campaign have yet to be produced.

"We are fully cooperating with, and assure our full compliance towards the Department of Tourism’s investigation of this matter," DDB said.

"We sincerely hope this will not diminish the genuine love and appreciation the stakeholders and the public have been showing for the Love The Philippines campaign."

DOT earlier said on Saturday that it was conducting an "exhaustive investigation" on DDB's alleged use of stock footage, following accusations that some of the video clips were from places outside the Philippines such as Indonesia, Thailand, and Dubai.

"While no public funds have been paid for the AVP in question as this particular component of the launch was released on the account of DDB, the DOT holds the responsibility of promoting the country to the highest standard. Therefore, it will not hesitate to exact accountability and take the necessary action to protect the interest of the country even as it continues to exhaust all efforts to develop and promote the Philippine tourism industry," DOT said.

PHIVOLCS URGES MAYON DANGER ZONE EVAC NOW

Residents within the 7- to 8-kilometer extended danger zone from Mayon volcano have been advised to prepare for evacuation.

Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, citing the advisory of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), said residents within this area must be prepared to evacuate “at a moment’s notice” and said that vehicles should be ready “as this could take days to complete.”

“At a moment’s notice, at least 8,000 additional families or 30,000 individuals will need to be evacuated. Again, that’s on top of the ones we already evacuated. You could imagine the number of mobility assets we will need to move them,” he said.

“Even with the mobility assets already deployed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines to support evacuation, we estimate it will take three-and-a-half days, given time-and-motion calculations,” he added.

“So we need all the vehicles we can prepare.

Mayon Volcano’s unrest has affected a total of 41,517 individuals or 10,652 families residing in 26 barangays, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said Sunday.

Of these, 18,751 people or 5,365 families were staying in 28 evacuation centers in the Bicol Region, while 1,427 people or 408 families were seeking temporary shelters outside of evacuation centers.

The NDRRMC said P130.5 million worth of assistance has been provided in the Bicol Region, so far.

SARA THANKS MARCOS AS TANDEM MARKS FIRST YEAR IN OFFICE

MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte on Sunday thanked her former running mate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as their tandem marked its first year in office.

In a statement, Duterte said she thanked Marcos for his support for the programs of both her office and the Department of Education (DepEd), where she sits as concurrent secretary.

"Ang Office of the Vice President at ang Department of Education ay nagpapasalamat... sa ating Pangulo sa kanyang suporta sa ating mga programa para sa ating mga kababayan sa buong Pilipinas at sa mga kabataang Pilipino," she said.

She also called being part of the Marcos administration an "honor" as it continued to improve the Philippines' standings across a wide range of issues, including the economy, agriculture, infrastructure, education, and foreign relations.

"Nananawagan ako sa lahat ng ating mga kababayan na suportahan ang administrasyon ni Pangulong Marcos upang maisakaturapan ang mga adhikain nito para sa ating lahat," Duterte said.

"Sana ay mas palakasin pa natin ang ating pagkakaisa — at gamitin natin itong sandata upang malampasan ang mga darating na hamon sa atin bilang isang bansa," she added.

SC ABSOLVES RODY OF MISCONDUCT

Former President Rodrigo Duterte has been cleared of simple misconduct charges by the Supreme Court of the Philippines. The court upheld a 2011 ruling by the Court of Appeals, reversing the suspension order imposed by the Ombudsman on Duterte and five other city officials. The case was initially filed by former Speaker Prospero Nograles, accusing Duterte and the officials of misconduct in relation to the Canal-Cover project in Davao City.

The project, initiated by Nograles in 2006, involved constructing a concrete floor on top of a drainage canal, causing problems with water flow and preventing dredging. In 2008, the Davao City government informed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) about the issue and later decided to remove the concrete flooring. A legal opinion from the Department of Justice clarified that structures require a building permit and only the DPWH can determine if a structure is a nuisance that can be demolished.

Based on this, Nograles filed a complaint against Duterte and other officials for misconduct. The Ombudsman initially found them guilty and ordered a six-month suspension, but the Court of Appeals reversed this decision in 2011. The Court of Appeals determined that the officials could not be held liable for simple misconduct in relation to the project's demolition. The Ombudsman and Nograles subsequently appealed this ruling to the Supreme Court.

In March 2023, the Supreme Court finally cleared Duterte and the other officials of the charges. The decision, written by Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, exonerated them of simple misconduct. This ruling marks the end of a legal battle that began in 2008.

ZUBIRI: US PUSHING DEFENSE FIRMS TO BUILD PH FACTORIES

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has revealed that American defense officials are interested in persuading their arms manufacturers to establish operations in the Philippines. Zubiri recently met with US Deputy Assistant Secretary for Defense Lindsey Ford in Washington DC to discuss the modernization efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and shared concerns in the Indo-Pacific region. The US officials expressed willingness to encourage their arms manufacturers to partner with Filipino companies and produce defense materials in the Philippines. This announcement comes shortly after Senator Imee Marcos called for an investigation into the presence of a US Air Force Boeing C-17 in Philippine territory, raising concerns about sovereignty and air travel safety. Zubiri sees the potential transfer of operations as a positive development, as it would generate jobs for Filipinos and allow for the sourcing of parts and munitions within the country. He also mentioned the proposed Philippine Defense Industry Development Act (PDIDA), which aims to enhance the Philippines' defense capabilities and reduce dependence on external sources for ammunition and firearms.

PH ON TRACK TO HIT DIGITAL PAYMENTS GOAL: BANGKO SENTRAL

MANILA - The Philippines is making significant progress in transitioning from cash to digital payments, with a target to shift 50% of all retail payments to digital channels in 2023, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). As of last year, digital payments accounted for 42.1% of total retail payments in terms of volume and 40.1% in terms of value, amounting to $78 billion. The BSP reported an increase of 611.7 million retail payment transactions in 2022 compared to the previous year. Payments between individuals constituted the largest share of the total retail payment volume at 68.6%, followed by business payments at 30.3% and government payments at 1.1%. Former BSP Governor Felipe Medalla highlighted the progress, emphasizing that the country is moving towards building a more inclusive retail payment landscape. The BSP believes that the shift to digital payments will contribute to financial inclusion.

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IMMIGRATION MOVES TO DEPORT 4 FOREIGNERS FOR DISRESPECTING PHILIPPINE FLAG

MANILA  — The Bureau of Immigration will pursue a deportation case against four foreigners accused of disrespecting the Philippine flag.

BI said in a statement on Monday that they took over the custody of three Pakistanis and one Romanian who were earlier arrested in Ternate, Cavite on June 30.

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said the bureau will pursue a deportation case against them.

BI said a member of the Philippine Marine Corps saw the four foreigners “pulling down a Philippine flag, taking turns tearing it, and throwing it away in violation of Republic Act 8491” or the Flag and Heraldic Code.

Tansingco stressed: “Foreign nationals staying here must respect our country and our laws. Foreigners destroying symbols of our country show utmost disrespect and do not deserve our hospitality.”

The STAR identified the four as Pakistanis Sharoon Manzoor, 29; Shmail Jalal, 36, and Shaid Manzoor, 45, and Joan Oprescu, 36, a citizen of Romania.

BI said they have undergone preliminary investigation and were committed to the bureau’s holding facility in Taguig.

PAGCOR TO POGO: CEASE AND DESIST

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has taken action against an offshore gaming service provider, Xinchuang Network Technology, Inc., in Las Piñas City suspected of involvement in criminal activities. PAGCOR issued a Show Cause Order to Xinchuang, requiring the company to explain its defenses against the allegations and why its accreditation and authority to operate should not be canceled. PAGCOR also ordered Xinchuang to cease all offshore gaming activities pending an investigation by the Philippine National Police (PNP). The PNP Anti Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) confirmed the arrest of four Chinese fugitives during the raid on Xinchuang's premises. In response, Xinchuang's lawyer demanded medical treatment for the injured foreign workers who were detained by the police during the raid. The PNP subsequently filed criminal charges against five Chinese nationals in relation to the raid. PAGCOR emphasized its commitment to cracking down on illegal activities linked to offshore gaming and stated its willingness to impose sanctions on erring licensees and service providers. The raid resulted in the rescue of over 1,500 Filipinos and more than 1,000 foreign nationals from various countries. Seized items such as computers, phones, and passports will undergo forensic investigation.

PBBM, FAMILY SURPRISE IMELDA ON 94TH B-DAY

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. wished his mother, former First Lady Imelda Marcos, more years filled with blessings as she celebrated her 94th birthday at the Palace.

“Today we celebrate 94 incredible years! Happy birthday, mom! Wishing you more years filled with joy, good health, and abundant blessings,” Mr. Marcos said in a Facebook post.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos posted a group photo during the birthday “asalto” (surprise party) with the caption: “Happy 94th birthday, Mama Meldy!”

Senator Imee Marcos posted a video on Facebook to greet her mom, whom she said was a “fashion icon” because of her iconic “terno” dresses during the administration of the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

“First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos has been nicknamed a “fashion icon” in our country. She has been our inspiration. On her birthday, let’s get to know her better by looking back at some of the stories of her life. Happy Birthday, Mom!” the senator said.

Sen. Imee Marcos, who was not in the group photo at the Palace, posted a separate photo of her with her sister Irene and their mom with the caption: “With our forever First Lady. Of course, I cannot be absent on my mommy’s birthday.”

PNR HALTING ENTIRE OPERATIONS BY DECEMBER FOR NORTH-SOUTH WORKS

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) will suspend its entire operations in December this year to make way for the North-South Railway Projects (NSRP) of the Department of Transportation (DOTr). The first phase of the NSRP project will be implemented along the Alabang, Muntinlupa to Calamba, Laguna route. Starting July 15, all trips from the Alabang route will stop, affecting around 500 daily train commuters. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will issue additional franchises to affected routes to assist the riding public. The NSRP aims to modernize the PNR system, with plans for electric trains and elevated systems. The South Long Haul Projects will also be implemented in the future, extending the PNR operations from Calamba, Laguna to Surigao in Mindanao. The Philippine government is currently in talks with another country for the South Long Haul Project.

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

KRIS AQUINO REUNITES WITH SONS AHEAD OF CHEMOTHERAPY

Kris Aquino has reunited with her sons Joshua and Bimby in the United States just before she undergoes chemotherapy medication as part of her immunosuppressant therapy.

On Instagram, Aquino shared a couple of pictures of their reunion in Los Angeles, where both her sons look extremely delighted to be with her again.

“It was on June 24 LA time, making it Sunday, June 25 in the PH (PH is 15 hours ahead of LA) when I told Bimb the deep bone pain I felt in my joints & lower back was getting worse, walking was becoming harder because of my swollen right knee, and I needed him to please come back earlier,” she wrote in the caption.

“Since naka FaceTime, I asked kuya kung gusto nyang sumama to visit mama in LA? Nagulat ako when he said ‘Yes, mama - sama ako with Bimby sa LA.’ I told Kuya to think about it. Nag FaceTime kami the next morning and I asked - what’s your decision, kuya? He said: mama, i’ll visit you in LA. I asked him SURE KA NA BA? Siguro tumatak na kay kuya, ang sagot nya: SURE NA,” she added.

While expressed her desire for Bimby to enjoy being a typical teen, as well as Joshua's happiness in Tarlac, she recognized the challenges she would face during her treatment and that she needed the support of her family.

“Kuya & Bimb are my living reminders to not give up because they still need a healthier mama. ‘Pag mahal mo, hinding hindi ka susuko, itutuloy ang LABAN,” she said.

With Bimby and Joshua now in Los Angeles, Aquino said she will sleep soundly knowing she will be sandwiched by her “two giants.”

“Muling nabuo kaming 3, thank you God for making me a very happy mama,” she said.

SPORTS

ARANAS, CHUA CLINCH HISTORIC WORLD CUP OF POOL TITLE

Partners James Aranas and Johann Chua gave the Philippines its fourth title in the World Cup of Pool by holding off Germany during their title joust in 9-ball doubles early Monday, Manila time.

Aranas and Chua came into the tournament unseeded, but plowed through Spain, Chinese Taipei and Austria before beating German partners Joshua Filler alongside Moritz Neuhausen, 11-7, in the finals at at Pazo de Feiras e Congresos de Lugo, Spain.

"I feel great. It feels amazing to win a world title. It's such an honor to win with James. We've known each other since we were 13 years old. We went to school together. To win with him is amazing. This has always been our dream," said Chua in Matchroom Sports.

"It's a special achievement to win the World Cup of Pool. I am aggressive at the table. I cannot sleep if I do not approach it like that. It's my first achievement at this sort of prestigious event. It's my first world title. "

With the victory, the Filipinos will take home the $60,000 top purse.

The Philippines now has the most title wins in World Cup of Pool with four crowns in total.

They also joined the company of billiards legends Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante.

The legendary pair won the inaugural staging of the Cup in Wales in 2006 and followed it up with another title win in the Philippines two years later.

In 2013, Dennis Orcollo and Lee Van Corteza took the title in the tournament set in in London.

Aranas, whose golden break against Spain catapulted them to the quarterfinal round, said it has been an unforgettable week.

"I started the week with no cues having been lost in transit but felt it was a sign of better things to come. For me, I have so many memories, it's so exciting," he said.

"This week is unforgettable, spending this moment with Johann too."

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THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

There are two ways to slide easily through life: to believe everything or to doubt everything; both ways save us from thinking. - Alfred Korzybski