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HEADLINES
IMO Secretary-General urges states to find common ground as shipping climate talks start
Magnitude 6.1 earthquake hits Catandanues, aftershocks expected
Comelec: Almost 250,000 aspiring voters meet deadline
Fish catch in West Philippine Sea declines due to sea row, El Nino
4th Impact's 'Round and Round' an entry to first round voting for 67th Grammy Awards
PBA: RHJ, TNT cruise past NLEX to secure semis berth
How to avoid traffic jams
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
FULL NEWSPAPER
Thousands evacuated as Taiwan braces for Krathon
KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan, October 2 ------ Taiwan closed schools and evacuated thousands of people in the south of the island on Tuesday ahead of the arrival of Super Typhoon Krathon, with Taipei's leader warning it was likely to cause "catastrophic damage." Krathon, packing sustained winds of 198 kilometers per hour (123 miles per hour) and gusts of up to 245 kph, was expected to make landfall near the major port city of Kaohsiung.
Offices and schools were closed across southern and eastern Taiwan, and the Interior Ministry said more than 7,800 people had been evacuated from vulnerable areas as a precaution.
Leader Lai Ching-te warned that Krathon would "inevitably cause catastrophic damage." "The path of Krathon is relatively rare, entering from the south and exiting from the east. Therefore, we must be particularly vigilant," he said at a government briefing. Dozens of international and domestic flights have been canceled. Nearly 40,000 troops were on standby for relief missions, the Defense Ministry said.
In southern Renwu district, part of Kaohsiung, soldiers were seen filling sandbags for distribution to the public, with a few dozen residents waiting at the district office to receive theirs. Wu Mao-shu, a supervisor at the office, said "people are eager to collect sandbags to protect their homes. Up until yesterday, we gave away about 7,400 and another 1,100 today so far." Wu said authorities had also cleared the storm drains in the area to avoid a repeat of the widespread flooding seen during Typhoon Gaemi in July. Gaemi was the strongest typhoon to make landfall in Taiwan in eight years, leaving at least 10 people dead and hundreds wounded. Taiwan is accustomed to frequent tropical storms from July to October, but experts say climate change has increased their intensity, leading to heavy rains, flash floods and strong winds.
'Can't underestimate' Krathon
In Kaohsiung, residents taped up windows, filled sandbags and erected barriers around their homes to keep out floodwaters. Coast guard officers patrolling the nearby scenic tourist spot of Sizihwan Bay told people to stay away as powerful waves pounded the coast. Retiree Ou Rui-yao, who was birdwatching in the area, said he had prepared his home for the storm. "We need to be very careful as this typhoon must be very strong," said Ou, 82. "Since the tide is high, we have put up water barriers." "For the whole of Taiwan, we can't underestimate this typhoon," he added.
The typhoon was about 220 km south-southwest of Kaohsiung as of 1 p.m., the Central Weather Administration said. The storm was approaching Taiwan after pounding a remote group of Philippine islands, where it cut power and communications, and damaged "many" houses, according to the local mayor. In Taitung, where the typhoon has brought heavy rains and waves of up to 7 meters (23 feet), a man was sent to the hospital after his truck was hit by a huge falling rock as he was driving along a mountainous route, local media said. Typhoons are common around the region at this time of year.
Source: manilatimes.net
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Chinese military conducts patrols in parts of South China Sea, state media reports
BEIJING, China, October 2 ------ The Chinese military conducted combat readiness patrols in parts of the South China Sea, Chinese state media reported, in an extension of rare military drills and exercises in the region over the weekend. The Southern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) conducted combat readiness patrols in efforts to improve combat capabilities and maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea region, according to state media reports.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea despite overlapping claims in the busy waterway by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. In 2016 the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague ruled that China’s claims were not supported by international law, a decision that Beijing rejects.
On Saturday, Chinese air and naval forces conducted maneuvers near the disputed Scarborough shoal after Australia and the Philippines said their militaries would hold joint maritime activities with Japan, New Zealand and the United States in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Philippines. The shoal, about 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of the main Philippine island of Luzon and within the Philippine EEZ, has long been claimed by both Beijing and Manila.
In recent talks with China’s top diplomat Wang Yi in New York, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken raised China’s “dangerous and destabilizing actions” in the South China Sea. Blinken had previously accused Beijing of aggressive deployments in the South China Sea of its coast guard and fishing vessels suspected of being a maritime militia.
Source: rappler.com
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MARITIME NEWS
IMO Secretary-General urges states to find common ground as shipping climate talks start
October 2 ------ The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has urged countries to focus on solutions and areas of convergence as ongoing negotiations on cutting emissions from ships at the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 82) begin this week in London. The 82nd session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 82) is taking place from September 30 to October 4, gathering global representatives to tackle vital environmental challenges under the IMO’s jurisdiction. At the forefront of discussions is the urgent need to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping.
The IMO plans to implement a new set of binding mid-term GHG reduction measures by late 2025. MEPC 82 aims to make progress on the draft legal text that will establish these measures, including a global fuel standard and a pricing mechanism for GHG emissions in shipping, as part of international law. The ultimate goal is to accelerate efforts toward achieving net-zero shipping by around 2050.
In addition to GHG emissions, MEPC 82 will address the energy efficiency of ships, marine plastic pollution, ballast water management, air quality measures, underwater noise, and other critical topics.
Speaking at this year’s opening ceremony, Secretary-General Dominguez emphasized the importance of focusing on key objectives as the Committee approaches its final sessions before next autumn’s decision. He urged members to seek areas of compromise, address concerns during the transition, and pursue solutions that are acceptable to everyone. “The most relevant point is that we should focus on finding solutions that should enable us to move forward together. It is important to remember that we all share the same goals here at IMO. I am encouraged by the commitment shown by all parties to bridge these differences, and I am confident that this will allow us to progress on draft amendments for both the GHG fuel intensity requirement and a GHG pricing mechanism, in accordance with the timelines we agreed here, which are set forth in the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy,” Dominguez stated.
Furthermore, IMO Secretary-General addressed the issue of continued attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, pointing out that these incidents not only continue to jeopardize the safety and well-being of seafarers but also have far-reaching consequences for international shipping.
The groundwork for discussions has been laid by the Intersessional Working Group on GHG Emissions (ISWG-GHG 17) which met ahead of MEPC82, from 23 to 27 September. Member state delegations considered proposed mid-term measures, including a global carbon pricing mechanism and a fuel standard, to decarbonize the shipping sector in accordance with the organization’s revised 2023 Strategy on Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships.
When discussing the suggested economic measures, there was increasing support from member states for a universal carbon price in the form of a flat contribution on emissions, such as in the form of a levy. Such a contribution would generate funds to incentivize the transition to clean shipping and support the needs of climate-vulnerable developing economies. The details of this economic measure, together with those of a global fuel standard, will be discussed at MEPC 82.
Source: offshore-energy.biz
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ILA Goes On Strike for the First Time Since 1977
October 2 ------ The International Longshore Association has launched its first strike in nearly 50 years. After months of warnings, the group's 45,000 members began a walkout at midnight Eastern Time, shutting down operations at 36 ports from Texas to Maine. The ILA cast the shutdown in existential terms, warning that terminal operators would cut jobs and introduce more automation if the union didn't prevent it. “The ILA is fighting for respect, appreciation and fairness in a world in which corporations are dead set on replacing hard-working people with automation,” the ILA said in a flyer distributed to its picketers. “Robots do not pay taxes and they do not spend money in their communities.”
After pressure from the Biden administration and trade groups, word leaked out late on Monday that there had been contact between the sides raising a final glimmer of hope for progress. The employers represented by the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) are reported to have raised their offer, leading to some talk between the sides - but not enough to stave off a strike.
The ILA’s stance, according to The Wall Street Journal was that it would not begin negotiations until the employers agree to a 77 percent increase in wages for the new six-year contract. The master contract will also have to tackle issues regarding automation at the ports, benefits, and work rules. The employers represented by the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) were believed to be standing at an offer of an approximately 40 percent wage increase and maintaining the prior rules regarding automation. A leaked internal memorandum from USMX appears to show the offer was increased to "nearly 50 percent" but USMX asked for an extension to complete the deal.
Union President Harold Daggett said that blame for the strike lies with the USMX, while the employers had repeatedly said they were ready to start negotiations. The union says USMX “refuses to address a half-century of wage subjugation,” while citing the profits made by carriers, especially during the surge in shipping during and after the pandemic. “The ocean carriers represented by USMX want to enjoy rich billion-dollar profits that they are making in 2024, while they offer ILA longshore workers an unacceptable wage package that we reject,” the ILA said in its final statement before the strike. “ILA longshore workers deserve to be compensated for the important work they do keeping American commerce moving and growing.” The ILA refused media interviews on Monday. It also declined to provide details on when and where the picketing would begin only saying that members would walk off at 12:01 am on October 1.
As late as Friday in an update to customers, Maersk said it was mostly still accepting bookings as normal. The exceptions include bookings for refrigerated containers outbound from inland locations via the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf Coast. Analysts have said imports and exports of perishables would be the first to feel the impact of the strike, potentially leading to shortages of items like bananas and cherries initially.
As the strike goes on, analysts point to an impact on raw materials and industrial goods, vehicles, and later consumer goods. Some items such as imported alcohol, wine, and beer would likely first be impacted and later broader lines of consumer goods. The expectation is that retailers have stockpiled inventories ahead of the anticipated strike but some importers are already talking of flying goods at higher cost, which is likely to be passed on to the consumer.
The expectation is that carriers will initially anchor vessels. Companies such as Ocean Network Express (ONE) and Maersk have said they would anchor their ships and review their status daily. The ILA has promised not to stop military cargo and passenger shipping. Tankers and bulkers use different terminals not covered under the ILA contract.
Analysts vary on the cost of the strike to the U.S. economy. CNN cites a Michigan-based research firm, Anderson Economic Group, saying the direct costs of a one-week strike could be about $2.1 billion. Analysts at JP Morgan and Jefferies have set the total cost to the economy in the range of $3 to $4.5 billion a day. Some estimates are as high as $5 billion per day.
The Biden administration's position continues to be that it is a collective bargaining issue and that it would not invoke its power to impose a cooling-off period or mediation. After speaking with both sides last week, reports are the administration was encouraging the employers to improve their offers over the weekend while publicly calling for resuming talks and a quick resolution.
Source: maritime-executive.com
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Taiwan Air Service Pulls Off Daring Rescue of Seafarers in Typhoon
October 2 ------ Taiwan’s Air Service Corp was able to rescue 19 crewmembers from a bulker that was taking on water and driven on the rocks as a strong typhoon approached the island. The crew was lifted by helicopter and transferred to shore while Taiwan reported a possible oil leak from the vessel as it prepared for the typhoon to come ashore on Wednesday. The bulker Blue Lagoon (79,474 dwt) was transporting 67,500 tons of ore from China to Singapore when the vessel called for assistance at 0428 local time on Tuesday, October 1. The ship was about 20 miles from Orchid Island near the southeastern tip of Taiwan when it encountered the onset of Typhoon Krathon. According to the authorities, winds were at Level 11, and seas were over 20 feet.
The vessel had a crew of 19 aboard, including seven from Ukraine, nine from Egypt, and three from Russia, when it reported that it was taking on water in its engine room. Approximately an hour after the first call, the captain told the authorities in Taiwan that they were preparing to abandon ship. Built in 2010, the vessel is registered in Panama. According to the Equasis database it was sold at the beginning of this month and is now being managed from Latvia.
A Taiwanese Coast Guard vessel from Kaohsiung was attempting to reach the vessel. The Air Service was able to get a helicopter to the vessel shortly after 0600 but reported the winds were too strong to start a hoist operation and it was returning to base. However, there was a break in the winds, and between 1100 and 1400, the crew was successfully airlifted. The crew of the coast guard vessel risked going on deck and assisted in the hoist and transfer of the crew.
The vessel was driven ashore and the authorities were monitoring it. They reported possibly sighting of oil in the water. The vessel is carrying 39 tons of MGO (Marine Gas Oil) and 227 tons of VLSFO (fuel oil). Pictures show the waves crashing over the vessel on the coastline while the authorities emphasized the typhoon is not expected to make landfall in Taiwan until Wednesday. It currently has sustained winds of over 120 mph and gusts over 150 mph raising widespread concern for the impact on the island.
In July, multiple vessels were driven ashore in another typhoon. The authorities are reporting that they are in the process of dismantling one ship (Keta) and that two others (Dolphin and Sophia) remain on the shore. They were taking precautions to prevent further pollution from these vessels as the typhoon hits Taiwan.
Source: maritime-executive.com
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PHILIPPINE NEWS
Debt eases to P15.55 trillion
MANILA, Philippines, October 2 ------ The strengthening of the local currency and the repayment of external obligations eased the country’s outstanding debt to P15.55 trillion in August, the Bureau of the Treasury said. Latest data from the Treasury showed that the national debt settled at P15.55 trillion as of end-August, cooling from the record-high P15.69 trillion a month ago. Nonetheless, the figure is still 8.4 percent higher than the P14.35 trillion debt in the same month last year.
For August alone, the government slashed the debt level by P139.79 billion. The Treasury attributed the decline to the revaluation effect of peso appreciation and the net repayment of external debt. As of end-August, the outstanding debt stood at 96.8 percent of the 2024 debt expectation of a record P16.06 trillion. The Treasury said domestic borrowings accounted for a majority or 69.4 percent of the debt pile while the remaining 30.6 percent came from external sources.
Total domestic debt at P10.79 trillion rose by 0.4 percent on a monthly basis due to the net issuance of government securities worth P45.5 billion. This was partially offset by the P6.59 billion downward revaluation effect of peso appreciation on dollar-denominated domestic securities. The local currency strengthened in August at P56.179 versus the P58.488 the month prior. Toward the end of August, the local currency finished on a strong note at a five-month high against the greenback amid easing inflation.
Domestic debt, however, jumped by 10.2 percent from the P9.79 trillion in debt in August 2023. External obligations, on the other hand, declined by 3.6 percent to P4.76 trillion month-on-month, but grew by 4.4 percent from P4.56 trillion on a yearly basis. The Treasury said the monthly decline was brought about mainly by peso appreciation, which trimmed P194.9 billion, as well as net repayments of P4.17 billion. Stronger third-currencies slightly offset the decline as it added P20.82 billion in valuation effects. Further, the government’s guaranteed obligations increased by 5.6 percent to P364.03 billion, reflecting the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp.’s availment of new guarantees worth P24.33 billion.
The escalation in the valuation of the third-currency denominated component of P1.38 billion also contributed to the increase while favorable peso movement provided a downward offset of P6.47 billion.
Source: philstar.com
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17 Chinese warships spotted in West PH Sea
MANILA, October 2 ------ Chinese vessels continue to loiter in the West Philippine Sea, including warships and research and survey vessels, monitoring from the Philippine Navy showed. In data released, the Philippine Navy said it has spotted 178 Chinese ships in the country's waters, including 17 vessels from the People's Liberation Army Navy scattered in many features, and two Chinese research and survey vessels in Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) over the past seven days, from September 24 to 30.
The West Philippine Sea was also infested with 28 China Coast Guard and 131 Chinese maritime militia vessels. China over the weekend announced that it "organized naval and air forces to conduct routine reconnaissance, early warning, and sea-air patrol exercises" around Bajo de Masinloc, over which it claims "indisputable sovereignty." This coincided with the Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) of the Philippines, United States, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand in the northern Luzon part of West Philippines Sea, which includes Bajo de Masinloc in Zambales. "Certain individual external countries are stirring up trouble in the South China Sea, creating instability in the region," the People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command said in a statement, as reported by state media Global Times.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines said on Sunday that China's navy tailed the Philippines’ joint sea and air activities with its allies. Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, AFP spokesperson, said the Philippine military monitored the Chinese navy vessels in the vicinity of the exercise but that the multilateral exercise "proceeded as planned without any interference" and that the ships of the participating countries were never in danger.
Beijing continues to claim almost the entire South China Sea, including parts of the West Philippine Sea, despite a ruling by an international court that says it has no legal basis for its assertions.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Magnitude 6.1 earthquake hits Catandanues, aftershocks expected
MANILA, Philippines, October 2 ------ A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck Bagamanoc town in Catanduanes early Wednesday morning where aftershocks are expected, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported. In its earthquake bulletin, Phivolcs said the epicenter of the tectonic earthquake was located east of Bagamanoc in Catanduanes at 5:19 a.m. It had a depth of 38 kilometers.
The state seismologist raised Intensity I in Irosin, Sorsogon. Meanwhile, the following intensities were felt in some areas:
Intensity IV: Virac, Catanduanes; and Tabaco City, Albay
Intensity III: Mercedes, Camarines Norte; Caramoan, and Sagñay, Camarines Sur; and Sorsogon City, Sorsogon
Intensity II: General Nakar, Quezon; Legazpi City, Albay; Daet, Camarines Norte; Iriga City, Ragay, and Sipocot, Camarines Sur; and San Roque, Northern Samar
Intensity I: Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte; Claveria, Masbate; Bulusan, Sorsogon; and Gandara, Samar
A reported intensity is the strength of an earthquake as felt and reported by people, according to Phivolcs, while instrumental intensity is measured by an intensity meter or scale. There are no expected damage from the earthquake. Several local governments in Cebu suspended face-to-face classes on Monday following the magnitude 5.1 earthquake that hit the province on Sunday.
Source: inquirer.net
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Filipinos in Israel advised to take shelters after Iran's attack
October 2 ------ Filipinos in Israel were advised early Wednesday morning, Oct. 2 (Manila time), to stay in protected areas after Iran launched more than 200 missiles towards the Jewish state following Lebanon's attack.
The Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv said that Filipinos in Israel must stay inside shelters or mamad and get indoors as soon as they hear emergency sirens or receive notifications on their phones. "Sundin po natin ang alituntunin ng Home Front Command. Mag-ingat po tayong lahat. Ang inyong kaligtasan ay mahalaga sa amin," the embassy added in a post on Facebook.
Iran launched ballistic missiles towards Israel following deaths of the Gazan people as well as leaders of Hezbollah and Hamas, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said. IRGC also warned that Israel would face “crushing” attacks should it respond to the latest attack. The latest development came as Israel's war on Hamas started spreading, with Iran and Lebanon also now fighting Israel.
Source: mb.com.ph
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‘Julian’ outside PAR but signal no. 1 still up in parts of Luzon
MANILA, October 2 ------ Several areas in Northern Luzon are still under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 and will experience strong winds even if weather disturbance Julian is outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), the weather bureau said. These areas are Batanes, the Babuyan Islands, the northern and western portions of Ilocos Norte (Pasuquin, Sarrat, Paoay, Bangui, Vintar, Burgos, Pagudpud, Bacarra, Currimao, Adams, Pinili, San Nicolas, Dumalneg, Laoag City, Badoc, and City of Batac), and the northwestern portion of mainland Cagayan (Santa Praxedes, Sanchez-Mira, and Claveria).
Julian was downgraded into typhoon category, with maximum sustained winds of 165 kph near the center, and gustiness of up to 205 kph. It was last tracked 280 km. west-northwest of Itbayat, Batanes. Gale warning is hoisted over the northern seaboard of Northern Luzon. Sea travel is risky for most types or tonnage of vessels, including all small sea craft and motorbancas, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said.
PAGASA forecast Julian to make landfall over the southwestern coast of Taiwan either Wednesday night or Thursday. Julian could weaken and become a remnant low over the weekend, PAGASA said.
Source: pna.gov.ph
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Comelec: Almost 250,000 aspiring voters meet deadline
MANILA, Philippines, October 2 ------ Nearly 250,000 aspiring voters beat the registration deadline for the 2025 elections, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec). Around 247,095 applications for voter registration were processed yesterday, Comelec Chairman George Garcia said.
Calabarzon recorded the highest number of applicants at 33,749, followed by Metro Manila, 30,686 and Central Luzon, 27,196. The poll body’s local offices in Batanes and other typhoon-affected areas will not hold special voter registration, Garcia noted. Since the resumption of voter registration in February, the Comelec has processed over 6.9 million applications.
Three elections are set to take place in 2025: the midterm elections and the first Bangsamoro parliamentary elections in May, and village and youth council elections in December.
Source: philstar.com
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PSA to print national ID cards in provincial offices
MANILA, October 2 ------ The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) plans to print PhilSys ID cards in its provincial offices following the termination of the contract with the national ID card supplier. PSA National Statistician Undersecretary Dennis Mapa said in a text message to ABS-CBN News that around 34.5 million physical national IDs are yet to be printed.
After the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas terminated the contract with ID card supplier AllCard Inc., the central bank gave the go signal to the PSA to explore alternatives to fast-track the production of national ID cards. “The PSA initiated engagement with alternative service providers to print the remaining physical national ID. We expect to start decentralized printing (at the PSA’s provincial offices) in the latter part of this year,” Mapa said.
Some 90 million Filipinos have registered with the Philippine Identification System, with 55.5 million physical national already IDs printed according to PSA. A total of 53.8 million physical national ID cards have been delivered nationwide while 1.7 million physical national ID cards are being delivered by PSA and PHLPOST. “The PSA is committed to print and deliver the physical national IDs to all registrants, even if they can already use the two other credentials for transactions with government and private entities,” Mapa said.
Aside from national ID cards, the government has issued 46 million ePhilIDs and 18.4 million Digital National IDs which have the same functionality and validity as the physical card.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Fish catch in West Philippine Sea declines due to sea row, El Nino
MANILA, October 2 ------ Fishery production in the West Philippine Sea has seen a decline on the first part of the year, official government data showed. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed the country’s fish catch in the West Philippine Sea declined from more than 108,000 metric tons in the first half of 2023 to a little more than 101,000 metric tons this year.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) acknowledged the smaller number, saying a confluence of factors affected the decline. "There is data showing na nag decline sa first quarter 'yung production natin sa West Philippine Sea, pero 'yung reasons naman nito ay hindi lang nakatuon sa geopolitical situation," said Nazer Briguera, spokesperson of BFAR. "Meron ding ibang rason tulad ng pagtaas ng fuel, pati na itong El Nino na dumaan, na nakaapekto sa mga isda," Briguera added.
However, BFAR pointed out that fish supply has been sufficient to meet the country's consumption demands. "Hindi lang naman marine ang source, we don’t intend to ignore this," Briguera added. Over the years, production from aquaculture has complimented the fish catch from the open seas.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. earlier pointed out that fish supplies in the country are nearly depleted, and fishermen around the country have confirmed this as fact. Several fishermen from Navotas said they have observed a significant drop in their catch in recent years. Likewise, fishermen from Pag-asa Island said they are having difficulties in fishing since Chinese vessels drive them away from rich fishing grounds. BFAR said the agency launched several efforts to solve the woes of fishermen. "Itong pagdagragdag ng floating asset bahagi ng direkyon ng BFAR at far as improving monitoring, control, and surveillance, " Briguera said.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
Sinag Maynila 2024 Best Film ‘Her Locket’ to premiere in San Diego filmfest
MANILA, Philippines, October 2 ------ After sweeping awards at the sixth edition of the Sinag Maynila Film Festival, the family drama “Her Locket” will premiere on Oct. 3 at the San Diego Filipino Film Festival 2024, to be held at the AMC Plaza Bonita, San Diego. “Her Locket” is helmed by J.E. Tiglao and stars producer-lead actress Rebecca Chuaunsu, Elora Españo, Boo Gabunada and Sophie Ng, among others.
The story started in the ‘70s. Filipino-Chinese actress, Rebecca, who portrayed Jewel Ouyang, told The STAR that the themes in the movie are the same until today. “No. 1, during our time, I cannot date Filipinos. No. 2, I cannot go into showbiz. No. 3, Chinese always favor the sons rather than the daughters. Until today, it’s the same,” said she. Sophie, who plays the young Jewel, said that she resonated with her character as well. “It’s really close to home.” She did her research about the Filipino-Chinese women in the ‘70s and realized that the story itself is just like her in real life.
“So, when I was talking to her (Rebecca), we had this heart-to-heart talk about it. Her story from my story right now, hindi siya nagkakalayo,” Sophie, also a Filipino-Chinese, divulged. “Actually, during filming, what’s happening there in film, is also happening in real life. I couldn’t date a Filipino. The parents of Jewel didn’t know that she’s taking film. And I’m also taking film at MINT College. My parents also didn’t know. So, during filming, parang ganap-ganap na talaga yung pagiging Jewel.” She was happy that she finally got to voice out what’s happening to her and was able to tell it through the film.
Boo, on the other hand, remarked that it was a “big learning experience” for him that the issues before still pervade in the Chinese community. He essays the role of Kyle Nicolas, Jewel’s lawyer son, who takes care of her mom with dementia. “For my character, specifically, I think what became my issue or conflict (is that) at what cost all of this revenger being able to get justice, its effect on the family, psyche, with my mom’s fight. Kasi parang inako ko yung fight ng mom ko. But at one point, ‘Ako na lang ba yung lumalaban nun or maybe because her health is deteriorating?’”
Elora, who plays the Filipino caregiver of Jewel, stated that the film mirrors the realities of unemployment. “And at the same time, parang ano yung kayang gawin ng isang tao na gustong mag-survive,” she added. “Her Locket” started as a revenge film, Rebecca revealed. “Thirty-two years ago, my father wrote his last will and testament, and nobody gives a deal about it, but being a woman who is strong, I fought for gender equality. The ideas started popping up there. But whether it ended up as a revenge film or not, you have to watch (it).” Rebecca furthered that they didn’t know what the category was for the film. But when they went to the 2023 Marché du Film–Festival de Cannes in France and the 2023 London East Asia International Film Festival in the United Kingdom, she was told that “Her Locket” was classified as a family drama with women empowerment as the theme.
The movie also took part at the 22nd Dhaka International Film Festival in Bangladesh and won Rebecca the Best Actress award at the WuWei Taipei International Film Festival last September. At the Sinag Maynila, “Her Locket” bagged eight awards, including, Best Film, Best Director and Best Screenplay for J.E., Best Actress for Rebecca, Best Supporting Actress for Elora, Best Production Design for James Rosendal, Best Cinematography for Jag Concepcion, and Best Ensemble Acting. On how the film would affect the Filipino-Chinese community, Rebecca told this paper, “I tell you a lot of lawyers in my film are my lawyers. They said, ‘You dare to show this film in the Philippines? (Sinag Maynila)’ I said, ‘Why not?’ Because I’ve been showing them abroad. Iba yung feel, eh, for Filipino-Chinese and for Filipinos like us. So, it might break the barrier, it might cause more problems but the film is out there.”
Source: philstar.com
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Billy Crawford credits late father as biggest coach in life
MANILA, Philippines, October 2 ------ His work as a coach to “The Voice” kids has started, and Billy Crawford is definitely on the lookout for talents, aged between seven and 14, who will constitute his team. Hopefully, one of them will reach the finale show. In life, Billy has had coaches or influences who have inspired him to chase his dreams and helped him navigate his entertainment careers, from being a child actor-performer to becoming an international singer and a well-known actor. “One of my biggest coaches in my life was my father,” said he, adding that his dad gave him a sense of awareness about work and professionalism. (His dad sadly passed away on Sept. 22.) “And I’ve always wanted to be like or at least close to my father.”
Billy simply banks on his years of experience as a singer and recording artist here and abroad. Like his fellow “The Voice Kids” coaches Julie Anne San Jose and Stell and Pablo of SB19, Billy has a game plan, which he generously shared in a recent press conference for the reality singing talent show, airing Sundays at 7 p.m. on GMA. “My strategy is that I have to tell and be honest with the kids and tell them that ‘This is a competition,’” said he. “Sa isang competition, may mananalo at may matatalo (in a competition, someone wins and someone loses), pero gusto ko ring i-embed sa kanila na di matatapos yung career nila dahil sa isang kumpetisyon (but I also want to embed or instill in them that their career will not end because of one competition).”
Billy added that he wanted the kids to also appreciate the importance of having work ethics and professionalism in the fields of performing and singing. “And also how to love and to be passionate about their craft, which is singing,” shared he. “So, when it comes to performance, what I can also give them (as advice) is kung ito ang hilig nila (if this is something they want to do or they’re interested in doing), they really have to give their heart.” It’s safe to say that all this is a glimpse of Billy as a coach of “The Voice Kids,” although he has also shown his coach side in “The Voice Generations.”
However, the idea of coaching is not something new to him. “I love coaching my kid, Amari,” said Billy, who is married to actress Coleen Garcia. “We try to give them (our kids) the best coach in life at kami yung tinitignan nila araw-araw (parents, like me, are the ones they look up to).” “I’ve been given this platform to actually motivate kids and to teach them certain things like tricks and trades that we know as coaches and we can share with the kids. That’s why it’s a big responsibility (to be a coach), nakaka-pressure, but the experience of being a coach, it’s not so new to me, pinangarap ko na ito matagal na (I’ve dreamed this for long), like I’ve always wanted to help performers enhance whatever skills they have,” added he.
Following Billy’s train of thought, one could gather that an artist should always try to perfect his or her craft. Regardless of the artist’s chosen field — be it singing, acting or painting, he or she has to work hard and put his or her (heart and) soul into it. “It feels good to be a coach, and (for) all of us, our roles in life are to coach and teach good to others, kumbaga automatic na tayong coaches,” said he. That’s why, when the opportunity to coach for this new edition of “The Voice” came along, Billy took and grabbed it. After all, it is his way of paying it forward and helping aspiring singers. “I’m just really thankful and blessed that I’m given this opportunity, siguro makabalik lang sa kapwa ko whether kahit anong edad (maybe just to help others), but it’s just a blessing na makaka-coach pa ako sa mga kabataan (to be coaching the young ones),” said he.
For Billy, no matter what age, one can start anything, such as discovering and pursuing one’s talent, let’s say, for singing, as one may add. “It’s just such a beautiful thing to see innocent children having their dreams and fulfilling their dreams, even makatapak lang sila dito sa entablado (them stepping on the stage to perform) without knowing if they will pass (or go to) the next round or not, just the experience, it’s a lifetime core memory, and I hope people will see it. That’s why it’s such a beautiful program to have, it is such a beautiful program to watch,” concluded he.
Source: philstar.com
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4th Impact's 'Round and Round' an entry to first round voting for 67th Grammy Awards
October 2 ------ 4th Impact's original song, "Round and Round," is an entry to the first round of voting that will determine the official nominees for the 67th Grammy Awards.
On Instagram, the all-Filipino girl group announced that "Round and Round" was considered an entry under the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance category. "One of these days we can be nominated as Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for the 67th Grammy Awards! So, we need your prayers, Dreamers! We need all of your help! Because we believe that nothing is impossible with God!" said 4th Impact.
On Tuesday's "Fast Talk With Boy Abunda," Tito Boy also commended 4th Impact, saying that "to be considered a nominee is already an achievement." It can be remembered that in December 2023, 4th Impact lamented in a "Fast Talk" interview the difficulties in their career, including the lack of support in the Philippines.
"Round and Round" is among the tracks in 4th Impact's self-titled EP, released in January 2024. For the EP, the group worked with Hungarian music producer Miklos Malek, as well as Grammy-nominated songwriter Rachel West and Greek musician NicoTheOwl. The First Round Voting for the 2025 Grammys will run from October 4 to 15, with the official nominees to be voted on by the Recording Academy's voting membership comprising producers, artists, songwriters, engineers, and other music creators.
Source: gmanetwork.com
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SPORTS NEWS
PBA: RHJ, TNT cruise past NLEX to secure semis berth
MANILA, October 2 ------ The TNT Tropang GIGA took a step towards the semifinals of the 2024 PBA Governors' Cup after torching NLEX, 109-91 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The Tropang GIGA found their mark from long range in Game 3 of the best-of-5 quarterfinals series, making 15 of their 33 attempts including all five in the second quarter. They also kept NLEX import DeQuan Jones in check, forcing him to shoot just 7-of-16 from the field for 16 points after his 38-point explosion in Game 2. "It has to be a combination of good defense with good offense. Finally tonight, we were able to get both together," said TNT coach Chot Reyes after their comfortable win.
The Tropang GIGA set the tone by scoring 32 points in the opening period, then made all five of their three-point attempts in the second quarter to build a commanding 61-40 lead at the break. While NLEX finally got going in the third period -- where they scored 28 points -- they had no answer for TNT on the defensive end with Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Calvin Oftana both having their way offensively.
Hollis-Jefferson just fell short of a triple-double with 27 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists, while Oftana had 18 points. As a team, TNT shot 48% from the field, with 23 assists on their 36 field goals. Robbie Herndon had 17 points to lead NLEX, as Robert Bolick went 3-of-8 from the field for 12 points to go with his 10 dimes. The Tropang GIGA can clinch the series on Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The Scores :
TNT 109 – Hollis-Jefferson 27, Oftana 18, Khobuntin 17, Nambatac 17, Williams 11, Pogoy 8, Castro 6, Erram 4, Aurin 1, Heruela 0, Payawal 0, Ebona 0, Galinato 0
NLEX 91 – Herndon 17, Jones 16, Bolick 12, Policarpio 11, Anthony 9, Valdez 6, Torres 6, Mocon 4, Semerad 3, Rodger 3, Nieti 2, Amer 2, Nermal 1, Miranda 0
QUARTERS : 32-21, 61-40, 89-68, 109-91
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Tennis: Alcaraz sweeps into Beijing final as home hero extends fairytale
BEIJING, China, October 2 ------ Carlos Alcaraz sent Daniil Medvedev packing to reach his first China Open final on Tuesday as 595th-ranked Zhang Shuai added another chapter to her fairytale renaissance. Second seed Alcaraz was in fine form to win 7-5, 6-3 and faces world number one Jannik Sinner or Chinese wildcard Bu Yunchaokete for the men's crown in Beijing.
Medvedev, the Russian third seed, was looking to emulate his run to last year's title-decider, where he was beaten by the Italian Sinner. But he showed signs of frustration at times against 21-year-old Alcaraz and twice required treatment on his left leg in the second set. "I think I played really well. Obviously if I want to beat Daniil, I have to play really good tennis, high-quality tennis," said four-time major champion Alcaraz, who is yet to drop a set. "I felt great on the court once again, so I'm really happy about it. I think I couldn't ask for a better semi-final."
After some high-quality tennis, the two players exchanged warm words over the net at the end. Medvedev said he joked he should dress up as Botic van de Zandschulp, the unheralded Dutchman who stunned Alcaraz in the second round of the recent US Open. "Maybe this can help," Medvedev told reporters. "Today I played pretty well. I don't see how I could beat him today." Alcaraz is looking to seal his 16th ATP Tour crown when the final takes place on Wednesday.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Carlos Yulo now a member of PH Navy Reserve Force
MANILA, October 2 ------ Olympic hero Carlos Edriel Yulo is now a member of the Philippine Navy Reserve Force. The two-time Olympic gold medalist took his oath at the Navy Headquarters. "I am proud to have the privilege of being enlisted in the Philippine Navy Reserve Force, a recognition I never expected in my lifetime," said Yulo, who made history in the 2024 Paris Olympics as the first Filipino athlete to win two gold medals. "Wearing this Navy uniform fills me with immense pride. With all my heart, I thank the Philippine Navy for this prestigious recognition. I will uphold its core values and inspire today’s youth, showing them that through sports, they too can serve our country," he added.
According to the Naval Public Affairs Office, Yulo will have the rank of Petty Officer 1st Class. The gymnast joins other Olympic athletes who are serving the country, including Tokyo Games gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz (Air Force), Tokyo Games bronze medalist Eumir Marcial (Air Force) and two-time medalist Nesthy Petecio (Coast Guard), among others.
MGen. Joseph Ferrous Cuison PN delivered a message from the Philippine Navy Flag Officer In Command, Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr., commending Yulo's appointment. "Your dedication, discipline, and drive made you a champion on the world stage, and now, you bring those same qualities to the Philippine Navy. We know that when you commit to something, you give it your all. I am confident you will do the same as a reservist, standing alongside men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting and uplifting our nation," Adaci Jr. said in his message.
Yulo, 24, won both the floor exercise and vault apparatus in the Paris Games.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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FEATURED ARTICLE
How to avoid traffic jams
Nobody wants to be stuck in traffic, sit idly, and wait to get wherever they have to be. There are a multitude of causes for traffic jams – unfavorable weather conditions, road accidents, poor driving skills, or simply a large volume of vehicles. Though it is an everyday occurrence, one can learn to steer clear of traffic congestion. In this article, we will share 6 tips that will help you avoid traffic jams and make the most of your day.
1. Discover alternative routes with the help of navigation apps
We live in the digital age – use it to your advantage! Navigation apps such as Waze will help you find alternative routes that will take you to your destination quicker and help avoid traffic jams. See some of the most popular navigation apps below:
• Waze
• Karta GPS
• MapQuest
• Google Maps
• TomTom GO Navigation
2. Use a professional GPS tracking system
Analyze your route history, evaluate all of the options available, and use the most effective ones by installing a GPS tracking system such as Mapon. With this platform, you can also view vehicles your family members use in real time and not bother them with text messages or calls, which can endanger road safety.
This comes even more in handy if you are running a business with multiple vehicles – you always know where each of them is, which employee is using it, and whether any laws were breached during the drive.
3. Follow traffic reports
Whether through radio or the internet – it’s smart to follow traffic updates in real time. This comes in handy when an accident, a snowstorm, or something else unexpected happens on the road. If you follow traffic reports, you can alter your route before you get to the blocked area, that way easily avoiding traffic.
4. Try out different modes of transport
A simple yet effective way to avoid traffic jams is to opt for another mode of transport. Walking or cycling is a great choice if you are travelling short distances, plus, your body will get some exercise. For longer journeys, public transportation is always an option and, in most cases, can get you where you need to be. Also, if you forgo your personal vehicle, you will minimize your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable world, even in a small way.
5. Drive responsibly and pay attention
Keep in mind that aggressive driving can also contribute to traffic congestion. Driving practices such as tailgating, speeding, and lack of signaling can cause road rage and increase the probability of accidents, which leads to traffic jams. So, every driver can help prevent them simply by following traffic laws and contributing to a positive driving culture. Little actions such as diving at the speed limit, moving as soon as the traffic light turns green, and merging early go a long way. Companies with fleets can even measure driver behavior on the road using fleet management software, that way contributing to road safety.
6. Plan ahead
The simplest way of avoiding traffic jams is to plan your journeys ahead of time. If you know that you will have to be at your destination by 17:00, which implies driving during rush hour, you can get a head start and avoid traffic by simply starting your journey earlier. Then you will have some free time at the destination and no negative emotions from the traffic jam.
Source: www.mapon.com
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