A news and information service for Filipino seafarers sponsored by the All Japan Seamen's Union, International Mariners Management Association of Japan and Philippine-Japan Manning Consultative Council, Inc.
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January 29, 2025
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HEADLINES
PH in priority list for more Japanese military aid, says Tokyo official
Filipino-Canadians crown pageant veteran as Miss Universe PH 2025 bet
FULL NEWSPAPER
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
How Donald Trump weaponized tariffs
WASHINGTON, D.C., January 29 ------ When President Donald Trump learned Colombia had pushed back on US deportations, his threat of a massive trade war laid out the stakes: cooperate, or else. Tariffs, just as they were during his first term from 2017 to 2021, are Trump's weapon of choice on the global stage. While it may be too early to tell how successful of a tactic they are against both US allies and rivals such as China, it shows how Trump -- who prides himself on his negotiating skills -- will not hesitate to take a hard line to get what he wants.
'Leverage'
After a rollercoaster Sunday with dueling tariff threats between Washington and Bogota, the White House said Colombian President Gustavo Petro had backed down and accepted the terms of repatriating immigrants from the United States. Trump had first threatened to levy 25 percent tariffs on all imported Colombian goods in a heated response to Petro refusing to accept two military planes carrying deported migrants. It was not clear whether leftist Petro had conceded his demand that the migrants be treated "with dignity." Planes sent by Bogota to ferry the migrants would nonetheless return by Monday or Tuesday "at the latest," according to Daniel Garcia Pena, Colombia's ambassador to the United States.
Eddy Acevedo, chief of staff at the nonpartisan Woodrow Wilson Center think tank, said Petro "quickly became aware of the amount of leverage the United States has with Colombia and that his reckless decision could jeopardize." "Last year alone, Petro had no problem allowing in 14,000 Colombians that were deported from the United States back to Colombia," Acevedo said.
'America First' in action
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt was quick to declare victory Sunday, saying: "Today's events make clear to the world that America is respected again." Trump himself echoed the sentiment on Monday, telling reporters on Air Force One that "it serves the world well to look at" the Colombia spat.
Trump's plan for mass deportations of migrants has put him on a potential collision course with governments across Latin America, the original home of most of the United States' estimated 11 million undocumented migrants. "The message that's being sent is how willing the Trump administration is to use these tools, and the fact that they got the opportunity to make that point in the first week of the administration, I'm sure, is quite pleasing for them," said Kevin Whitaker, the former US ambassador to Colombia who now serves as a non-resident fellow at the Atlantic Council. True to the promises he made on the campaign trail, Trump spent his first week back in power working to implement his "America First" diplomatic credo.
In doing so, he has also threatened to levy tariffs against Canada and Mexico if they did not comply with his immigration demands. He also announced the United States' withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement and the World Health Organization (WHO) during a slew of executive orders he signed. In addition, Trump ordered a pause to US foreign aid -- except for Egypt, Israel and emergency food aid until a complete review is performed to see if it aligns with his agenda. Trump has also threatened to "take back" control of the Panama Canal, claimed it was in Canada's best interest to become the 51st state, and reaffirmed his desire to annex Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. In the latter case, Trump has brandished tariffs against a fellow NATO ally. And at the Davos forum last week, Trump in a videocall told the audience of business leaders to be prepared to come and produce goods in the United States, or else get ready to pay tariffs.
Source: manilatimes.net
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Japan closely watching S. Korea situation
Tokyo, January 29 ------ The Japanese government is closely watching the situation in South Korea with serious concern following Sunday’s indictment against President Yoon Suk-yeol, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said.
“Japan-South Korea relations remain important under the current strategic environment,” Hayashi told a press conference, apparently referring to threats from North Korea’s nuclear and missile development.
“We will closely communicate with the South Korean government” on matters including the 60th anniversary this year of normalization of diplomatic ties between the two countries, he said.
Source: inquirer.net
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MARITIME NEWS
Over a third of world fleet needs to embrace zero-emission tech or face ‘premature scrapping’
January 29 ------ A rapid transition could lead to “premature scrapping” of over a third of the fleet, valued at over $400 billion, unless it undergoes costly retrofits to remain competitive in the wake of new greenhouse gas (GHG) policies and wider energy transition, a new report shows.
The report titled “Supply-side and demand-side stranded asset risks in shipping” and released by UCL’s Energy Institute Shipping and Oceans Research Group assesses the financial risks to the shipping industry from stranded assets due to stricter GHG regulations, due for adoption at IMO this year, in combination with the ongoing global transition to a low-carbon energy system. The report finds the shipping sector faces substantial supply-side risks linked to carbon-intensive vessels becoming obsolete and demand-side risks linked to decreased fossil fuel demand. All investors will need to actively address these risks through strategic investment choices, energy efficiency measures, and proactive planning for the IMO’s mid-term measures and wider climate change policies.
The report finds that over 40% of ships globally transport fossil fuels, and nearly all ships are fossil-fueled. To align with shipping’s estimated share of the carbon budget of 9.6 giga tons, ships representing over one-third of the existing and ordered fleet value would need to quickly transition to zero-emission technologies or face premature scrapping.
The transition away from fossil fuels in the wider economy creates further risks of oversupply for fossil fuel-carrying ships. In particular, liquefied gas tankers look likely to face the highest exposure to this risk, with 26–32% of fleet value at risk around 2030. “If existing ships can be retrofitted to competitive zero/near-zero technologies, much of the fleet at risk of being stranded could be saved, and this is a strong incentive for investors to invest in retrofittable ships. However, even those retrofits would come at a cost, so we expect some asset devaluation as the mid-term measures become more material,” Marie Fricaudet, PhD Student at the UCL Energy Institute, said.
Growing evidence suggests that shipowners and financiers are not anticipating a rapid transition. In the short term, transition risks, such as those related to policy, litigation, and technology, do not appear fully credible to them. As a result, these risks are unlikely to be adequately factored into their investment decisions, thereby exacerbating transition risk, as shown in a separate study that revealed that a ship’s carbon intensity does not directly impact the cost of the loan for that ship. “Our research to date consistently shows that the majority of the shipping stakeholders, particularly investors including shipowners and financiers, are not anticipating an ambitious transition. This research shows that an investment strategy that is based on ‘watch and wait’ is a risky strategy, it could lead to rapid unanticipated write-downs and losses from forces within and outside the sector,” Nishatabbas Rehmatulla, Principal Research Fellow at the UCL Energy Institute, explained.
Shipowners and financiers could manage or account for demand-side risks by avoiding investment in segments with uncertain future transport demand, investing in optionality for repurposing to other cargoes, and by factoring this risk into expected returns. Retrofitting and repurposing ships would reduce the amount of stranded assets but can still be a costly alternative. Uncertainty in future technology mix complicates planning but proactive management through optionality for example through dual-fueled vessels, of the supply-side risks of stranded assets remains necessary.
“IMO set its direction in 2023, and therefore clarified the supply-side risks discussed here. That strategy’s ambition is close to that of the 1.5°C scenario used in this analysis. With evidence from earlier this month that further momentum is building behind a universal GHG price and package of IMO mid-term measures that can strongly incentivize transition, there will be further crystallization of that risk this year. But perhaps a key point from this analysis is that at the point when it is beyond doubt that fossil fuel technologies, including LNG as a fuel and cargo, face rapid contraction, it will be too late for many to take corrective action,” Tristan Smith, Professor of Energy and Transport at the UCL Energy Institute, commented.
As per the report, investing in energy efficiency provides a degree of resilience in all scenarios by enabling fossil-fuel-powered ships to comply with climate regulations and lower emissions for an extended period, allowing time for the fuel mix to stabilize and reduce the size requirements for tanks and engines while maintaining the same level of transport capacity, thereby enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Source: maritime-executive.com
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DNV: New autonomous shipping class notation family sees light of day
January 29 ------ Norway-based classification society DNV has launched a new family of class notations that aim to provide a framework for how remote/autonomous ships can achieve “equivalent or higher” safety compared to conventional vessels.
Dubbed the Autonomous and Remotely Operated Ships (AROS) notations, the framework was launched in December 2024 and has been available since January 1, 2025. As explained, AROS covers four specific functions for autonomous ships: navigation, engineering, operational, and safety. It was envisioned to distinguish by category, ie. remote control, decision support, supervised autonomy, full autonomy, as well as the location of ship control (onboard, off-ship, or hybrid).
The class notation family is projected to offer the maritime industry the ‘much-needed’ structure for the future development of autonomous shipping technologies, in close cooperation with the flag and coastal states which hold the ultimate approval responsibility, according to DNV.
Autonomous shipping, spanning from remote-controlled operations to fully unmanned vessels, represents a groundbreaking leap forward for the maritime industry. As per DNV, these innovations promise a host of advantages, such as ‘enhanced’ safety, streamlined logistics, increased cargo capacity by minimizing crew requirements, improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and ‘substantial’ cuts in both operational and maintenance costs. That said, the regulatory frameworks for these advancements are still in development. On top of that, the UK-based maritime security firm Dryad Global brought to the surface another hot issue in the adoption of autonomous vessels and autonomous port operations: cybersecurity.
The British firm has accentuated that the door to new vulnerabilities has been flung open with cyber-attacks threatening to exploit unsecured software, communication systems, or even autonomous drone operations to gain control over ‘critical’ systems. Concerning this, in particular, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other regulatory bodies have been tightening cybersecurity requirements to address the growing threats, Dryad Global shared, though, according to the firm, it remains to be seen how the matter of compliance will be resolved given the fact that smaller entities with limited resources tend to – as of yet – remain exposed.
What is more, the IMO has not left regulations in the dust, either, having also been working on crafting a specific code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (the so-called MASS code), though it is expected to be on a voluntary basis starting this year. It is estimated this will not be mandatory until 2032, which has further accentuated the necessity to develop a ‘sturdier’ solution for related technologies.
Regarding this, DNV revealed that the AROS definitions are, in fact, aligned with the current plans for the IMO’s MASS code. “Autonomous shipping, in all its formats, is a key part of the future development of shipping. With the AROS notations, we will see novel autonomous and remotely controlled pilot projects achieving at least the same safety levels as conventional vessels,” Geir Dugstad, Technical Director, Classification at DNV Maritime, highlighted. “When the technology from these pilots becomes available for seafarers, features such as collision and grounding avoidance, vessel lookup support, and remote machinery support can help improve safety and reliability.”
The new class family notations reportedly also build on DNV’s DNV-CG-0264 guideline for autonomous vessels, combining the guideline’s risk assessment processes for the qualification of autonomous and remotely operated marine technologies with a set of functional requirements. Representatives from the Norwegian organization elaborated that they chose a “deliberately flexible” approach here to leave ample room for future innovation.
‘The first’ organization to be awarded a Statement of Compliance with the DNV-CG-0264 was Houston-based marine robotics company Ocean Infinity. The company received this acknowledgment for the remotely supported operational concept for the Armada 78 fleet of offshore survey vessels. To be precise, the Armada 78 03 vessel was the one to complete the upgrade and verification process.
The past few years have seen an array of endeavors in autonomous shipping with industry stakeholders across the world seeking breakthroughs within this landscape. In July 2023, the classification society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) gave its nod of approval for the fully autonomous ship framework named Action Planning and Execution System for full autonomous (APExS-auto) crafted by Japan’s shipping titan Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), and compatriot Monohakobi Technology Institute (MTI) and Japan Marine Science Inc. (JMS). As understood, this was done as part of the fully autonomous ship program called MEGURI 2040.
More recently, namely in October 2024, BIMCO, the world’s largest shipping association, revealed that its Documentary Committee had greenlit the AUTOSHIPMAN agreement, a contractual framework intended to support the skyrocketing number of remotely controlled vessels. BIMCO explained that AUTOSHIPMAN’s primary goal was to set up a standardized contract system that would allow third-party ship managers to deliver operational services for remote-controlled or fully autonomous vessels, the majority of which are currently employed in inland waterways and coastal trades.
Source: offshore-energy.biz
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Ireland Apprehends Nine Men Hiding in a Container Arriving from Africa
January 29 ------ Irish police are investigating the circumstances of what appears to be another case of human traffic through one of its busy cargo seaports. Nine men were found in a container at the Rosslare Europort in southeast Ireland this morning January 27 and handed over to the police. It is unclear how long the container had been at the busy seaport or how long it had been traveling. Media reports indicate the container originated in Africa. It is believed to have made two stops in Europe while traveling to Ireland.
The police were called to the port at approximately 10:30 am this morning Monday, January 27, after the nine individuals were discovered. Medical teams checked the individuals and reported either were healthy while one was transferred to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The media reports the individuals are possibly from Djibouti although the police only commented that the investigation was ongoing.
Rosslare Europort located approximately 90 minutes driving distance to either Dublin or Cork is one of Ireland’s fastest-growing cargo ports. It has direct connections both to Europe and the UK and is serviced by a broad range of companies including DFDF, Neptune Lines, Stena, Brittany Ferries, and Irish Ferries. In 2023, the port’s operator reported overall freight in the past two years had grown cumulatively by 53 percent with a 398 percent increase in continental trade.
This is the latest in a series of incidents of human smuggling the Irish Times reports. According to the newspaper, in March 2024 seven people were discovered in a trailer. They were determined to be from Eritrea. Twelve months ago, the Irish Times reported that 14 migrants, including men, women, and children, were found hiding in another trailing at the port. It has arrived from Zeebrugge in Belgium. The investigation revealed they were Kurdish people from Iran and Iraq.
Source: maritime-executive.com
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PHILIPPINE NEWS
US embassy warns vs fake messages on visas
MANILA, Philippines, January 29 ------ The United States embassy is warning against fraudulent emails and messages being sent to US visa applicants to trick them into sending money. “Applicants must follow the payment steps on our website only. Other sources are not valid or legitimate. We urge individuals to be vigilant against visa fraud,” the embassy said in a statement yesterday.
The embassy said it will never directly communicate with applicants about a specific case from any other email address, social media or other messaging platforms such as Facebook, Viber or WhatsApp. “The embassy never requests a visa payment via email, phone, social media or messaging application,” it said.
The embassy encouraged applicants to use the information on its official website at ph.usembassy.gov/visas. If an applicant suspects being misled, a report may be sent to email address FPMManila@state.gov.
Source: philstar.com
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PH in priority list for more Japanese military aid, says Tokyo official
TOKYO, January 29 ------ Japan will expand an unprecedented military aid program, the first of its kind since World War II, to help the armed forces of like-minded countries like the Philippines deter threats to the rule of law in the Indo-Pacific, where alarm has grown over China’s aggressive actions.
Since Japan established the Official Security Assistance in April 2023, as it seeks a larger security role in the region, the Philippines has been the biggest recipient of the non-combat military assistance, with the Philippine Navy receiving coastal surveillance radars to improve its maritime domain awareness.
Countries which are in a new priority list to receive the OSA for military equipment and infrastructure totaling 8 or 9 billion yen this fiscal year, which starts April, include the Philippines along with Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea and Mongolia, a senior official of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs who is involved in the OSA program, told GMA News Online in a briefing in Tokyo. “Considering the trajectory of Japan's assistance policy or security policy, this kind of program is unprecedented and supporting foreign countries’ military has long been prohibited,” said the Japanese MOFA official said, who spoke on customary condition of anonymity because of sensitivities over the security program. “It brings about a new stream of Japan security policy,” the official said and added that regional powerhouses like Australia and China have also provided similar security assistance on a larger scale. “It’s the first time for Japan so even if the scale is not that big, it's symbolic.”
In explaining the rationale for establishing the OSA, Japan’s MOFA said then that the country “is finding itself in the midst of the most severe and complex security environment since the end of World War II.” “It is essential for us to drastically strengthen our own defense capabilities as well as enhance the security and deterrence capabilities of like-minded countries in order to prevent unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force, ensure the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region, in particular, and create a security environment desirable for Japan.”
Source: gmanetwork.com
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Eastern Visayas gets more meds to combat schistosomiasis
TACLOBAN CITY, January 29 ------ The Department of Health (DOH) regional office here is ramping up its fight against schistosomiasis in the Eastern Visayas region with about 3 million tablets available this year for mass administration for residents in the region’s endemic areas.
Hygeia Grace Agosto, DOH regional schistosomiasis program manager, said in a phone interview Thursday that vulnerable populations are assured of sufficient stocks of praziquantel tablets to combat the disease, also known as snail fever. “On top of our new deliveries from our central office, our provinces have stocks of praziquantel tablets delivered mid or late last year. Since we have adequate supply, we encourage everyone living in endemic areas to take this medicine. This life-saving and effective treatment is free,” Agosto told the Philippine News Agency.
Unlike in the past years, there are no more concerns about praziquantel tablet supply in the region. The mass drug administration in Eastern Visayas has covered 356,679 individuals, or just 47 percent of the target, in 2024. The target is to cover at least 85 percent of the exposed population every year in mass drug treatment. In the region, nearly 1 million people remained exposed to chronic parasitic disease. “The mass drug administration is a major activity to be able to reduce the cases of schistosomiasis in our communities. We have to help people understand the importance of taking praziquantel and not fear its adverse effects,” Agosto added.
Among the most common adverse reactions after taking the anti-schistosomiasis drug are dizziness, vomiting, body weakness, nausea, anorexia, and joint and muscular pains. The disease is endemic in 897 villages in 63 towns and cities in Leyte, Samar, Eastern Samar, and Northern Samar provinces. The DOH underscored the importance of treatment as the country celebrates schistosomiasis awareness and mass drug administration month this January.
The health department defines schistosomiasis as an acute and chronic disease caused by parasitic worms called trematodes or blood flukes. The most common symptoms of the disease are abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloody stool, and liver enlargement. Transmission occurs when people suffering from schistosomiasis contaminate freshwater sources with their feces containing parasite eggs, which hatch in the water. The first epidemic of schistosomiasis in the region occurred among Americans and Allied forces after landing in Leyte during World War II in 1944.
Source: pna.gov.ph
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Comelec uploads new ballot faces for 2025 polls
January 29 ------ The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Sunday uploaded the new ballot faces for the 2025 national and local elections on its website, ahead of its planned resumption of printing.
Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco confirmed this to GMA News Online through a Viber message. The new ballot faces contain the 66 senatorial candidates and 156 party-list group candidates, as well as the local candidates running for provincial, municipality and congressional district seats.
The poll body is also set to begin printing the new official ballots for the 2025 elections on Monday. Comelec postponed the printing of ballots last week following the issuance of the Supreme Court (SC) of fresh temporary restraining orders (TROs) against the disqualification of some aspirants.
Given the shortened time frame for printing official ballots, Comelec aims to produce 1.5 million ballots daily. The Comelec has deputized the National Printing Office (NPO) to ensure the “proper, satisfactory, and timely” completion of the reprinting of the official ballots. Despite the delays, Comelec Chairman George Garcia said the 2025 elections will still proceed on schedule on May 12.
Source: gmanetwork.com
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DA to build P3 billion cold storage facilities for fruits, vegetables
MANILA, Philippines, January 29 ------ Department of Agriculture (DA) is set to roll out a P3-billion initiative to construct 99 cold storage facilities nationwide, aiming to extend the shelf life of fruits, vegetables and high-value crops, while ensuring price stability and food security.
In a statement, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the facilities would feature sustainable, cost-efficient designs powered by renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, alongside electricity from the grid. “This approach not only addresses immediate agricultural needs, but also aligns with broader environmental goals,” Tiu Laurel said.
The project, a cornerstone of the DA’s logistics master plan, aims to strengthen the agricultural supply chain by reducing post-harvest losses and improving the distribution of goods. The plan, spearheaded by the Agriculture and Fisheries Logistics Office under Assistant Secretary Daniel Alfonso Atayde, includes cold storage facilities, road networks, agricultural seaports and an integrated cold chain system.
President Marcos has approved the use of P1.5 billion in unprogrammed funds for 2024 to initiate the project, while another P1.5 billion is allocated in the 2025 General Appropriations Act. “The unprogrammed funds will be spent to build around 65 small or modular chiller-type cold storage facilities across the country and a large cold storage facility to be built in Camarines Sur,” Tiu Laurel said. Additional plans include two large facilities, potentially in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro and Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, as well as 31 smaller modular units.
Each large facility, designed to store 2,800 to 3,500 pallet positions, will take 18 to 22 months to complete, with operations managed by the DA in coordination with local government units and farmers’ cooperatives. The modular units, akin to 40-foot container vans with 7 to 15 metric tons capacity depending on the agricultural products to be stored, will be operational within three months, offering a quicker solution for immediate storage needs nationwide.
The DA further noted that the investment in cold chain infrastructure aims to stabilize supply and prices, and enhance returns for farmers and fisherfolk which will benefit both producers and consumers to a sustainable agricultural economy. “The budget allocation for cold storage in 2025 is a strategic approach towards bolstering this critical aspect of the agricultural sector,” Atayde said.
Source: philstar.com
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No coding for vehicles on Lunar New Year - MMDA
MANILA, Philippines, January 29 ------ For those celebrating the Lunar New Year on Wednesday, January 29, there's no need to worry about whether your car is “coding” or not. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced that the expanded number coding scheme will be suspended in observance of the holiday.
The traffic agency noted that traffic in Binondo, Manila — also known as Chinatown — tends to be heavy during the celebrations as the Filipino-Chinese community carries out their traditions in the heart of the Chinese commercial and cultural district. Privately owned cars are subject to a number coding scheme, restricting their travel in Metro Manila on specific weekdays to help control traffic and reduce congestion.
For 2025, the MMDA has the following scheme:
- Monday - Cars with license plate number ending in 1 or 2
- Tuesday - Cars with license plate number ending in 3 or 4
- Wednesday - Cars with license plate number ending in 5 or 6
- Thursday - Cars with license plate number ending in 7 or 8
- Friday - Cars with license plate number ending in 9 or 0
The number coding scheme is not enforced on weekends and applies primarily to most roads during peak traffic hours, from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The MMDA urged motorists to prioritize road safety by planning their trips, adhering to traffic rules and ensuring that drivers are fit to drive. Chinese New Year is a special non-working holiday that marks the year's first new moon. Celebrations typically include enjoying Chinese food and delicacies, consulting Feng Shui experts for good luck, having horoscopes read and watching dragon dances and fireworks.
Source: philstar.com
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Cebgo's Siargao, Masbate flights to move from NAIA to Clark March 30
MANILA, January 29 ------ Operations of Cebu Pacific's Cebgo to Siargao and Masbate will be moved from Manila to Clark International Airport (CRK) beginning March 30.
The move is line with aviation authorities' plan to gradually transfer turboprop operations from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to other airports. The resolution was issued by the Manila Slot Coordination Committee composed of the Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports; chiefs of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and New NAIA Infra Corp. general manager on Dec. 3, 2024.
MIAA General Manager Eric Ines told the Philippine News Agency that the plan is to transfer an initial 30 percent of turboprop operations. "The rest are planned for winter schedule from 2025 to 2026," he said. In a previous interview with the PNA, Ines said the plan to move turboprop operations from NAIA to CRK has been there for quite some time, as this aims to promote Clark and minimize aircraft congestion.
Smaller planes at the NAIA Terminal mostly service resort destinations such as Siargao and Coron, he said. CRK operator Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp. (LIPAD) President and Chief Executive Officer Noel Mananquil said they are aware of ongoing discussions and welcome flights to serve more passengers. "CRK has the capacity to connect international travelers to our famed island destinations with our transfer facility which is housed in the same terminal," Mananquil said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Cebu Pacific spokesperson Carmina Romero said Cebgo's flights from Manila to Surigao will be canceled starting March 30. Passengers could still connect to Surigao via Cebu. Affected Cebgo passengers may avail of free rebooking, refund or store the amount in a virtual CEB wallet. Meanwhile, the Gokongwei-led airline also announced that another subsidiary, AirSwift, will continue to operate from Manila until March 2026.
Source: pna.gov.ph
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OCTA survey: 13.2 million Pinoy families consider themselves poor
January 29 ------ About 50% or 13.2 million Filipino families considered themselves poor in the fourth quarter of 2024, an increase from 11.3 million families (43%) in the third quarter survey, OCTA Research’s Tugon ng Masa survey showed.
The survey, conducted from November 10 to 16, 2024 said the seven percentage points increase represented around 1.8 million additional families. The poll was done through face-to-face interviews with 1,200 respondents aged 18 and above. It has a ±3% margin of error at a 95% confidence level.
Subnational estimates for the geographic areas covered in the survey have the following margins of error at a 95% confidence level: ±6% for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. According to the survey, those who consider their families poor declare that the median amount they need for home expenses in order not to be considered poor is P25,000 pesos per month. “Additionally, families reported requiring a median of P8,000 more each month to escape poverty,” the survey added.
Self-rated poverty was highest in Mindanao at 69%, followed by Visayas at 59%. Balance Luzon posted 43%, while the National Capital Region only posted 30%. Mindanao’s 69% self-rated poverty rate was higher than its third quarter figure of 60%. The 43% self-rated poverty in Balance Luzon was also higher than its 30% figure in the third quarter. The 30% self-rated poverty in Metro Manila, however, was lower than the third quarter figure of 35%. The 59% self-poverty rate in Visayas was the same as the third quarter figures.
In addition, the Tugon ng Masa poll also showed that the self-rated hunger increased in the fourth quarter of 2024 to 16% or an estimated 4.2 million families. This figure is also a five-point increase from the third quarter figures which recorded an 11% self-rated hunger or an estimated 2.9 million families.
Source: gmanetwork.com
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ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
Kim Chiu gathers Feng Shui tips for attracting luck in the Year of the Wooden Snake
January 29 ------ It's Chinese New Year, and if you're looking to attract all the good vibes and luck in the Year of the Wooden Snake, Kim Chiu has got your back! The Chinita Princess is here to spill everything you need to know to usher in prosperity, manifest your goals, and boost positive energy—from colors to rituals and must-prepare dishes.
The "It's Showtime" host headed to Binondo to get advice from Feng Shui expert Coach Johnson Chua, who shared some exciting insights about the Year of the Wooden Snake. According to Coach Johnson, the snake symbolizes rebirth, much like how it sheds its skin, and it’s also known for being quick and highly creative. That’s why 2025 is shaping up to be a year of fresh opportunities, new ideas, and transformative changes. This year, there’s potential for lots of growth, but it’s important to stay focused and firm with your decisions. While the snake’s agile and adaptable nature is a positive trait, it can sometimes lead to instability if you try to do too much at once. As for the luckiest animal signs this year, the Rooster takes the top spot! In the zodiac, the snake and rooster are natural allies, meaning people born in the Year of the Rooster can expect strong connections and networks that will boost their success.
The same goes for the Monkey, which is followed by the Horse in third place. For those born in the Year of the Horse—like Kim herself—2025 is a powerful year for manifesting dreams. However, Coach Johnson reminds everyone that manifesting only works if your heart and mind are aligned. He also warned horse-born individuals not to chase too many goals at once. Remember, a horse can only run one race at a time. Those born in the Year of the Rat are in for a promising year as well. With the "convincing star" and "reputation star" on their side, 2025 looks especially for Rats, particularly those in the world of influencing or public relations.
Meanwhile, viewers of Kim’s vlog got an early dose of kilig when her sister, Lakam, nudged her to ask about the fortune of a certain “someone.” While Kim didn’t drop any names, we're sure fans will be quick to connect the dots. Here’s the clue: this mystery person was born on May 13 in the Year of the Dragon. Could it be Paulo Avelino? According to Coach Johnson, Dragons have strong opportunities in both career and relationships this year. Projects are likely to flow in for them, but there’s a gentle reminder to watch out for their health, especially when it comes to staying hydrated. As for the Year of the Sheep, they’re in the sixth spot among the luckiest signs. Productivity will be their strong suit, making 2025 a great time for personal and professional growth.
Unfortunately, not everyone is riding the luck wave this year. The Pig falls at the bottom of the rankings. Coach Johnson advises Pigs to be extra cautious, as they might find themselves feeling more emotional or struggling with the whirlwind of changes this transformative year could bring. For those born in the Year of the Ox, 2025 isn't all bad, but it does come with the presence of the disaster star, which could bring some heavy emotions or burdens, so Oxen are advised to prioritize their well-being and avoid taking on more than they can handle.
Meanwhile, the Year of the Rabbit brings mixed energy. While Rabbits can benefit from the prosperity star, they're prone to betrayal and conflict. But before you worry too much, Coach Johnson dropped some reassurance, saying that there's no such thing as 'malas.' Negative predictions can be countered with positive thinking, spreading good vibes, and most importantly, asking for help when things get tough.
Now, let’s talk about love! The relationship energy for 2025 is off the charts, whether you’re single or taken. However, Coach Johnson gave a word of caution. While the Snake’s energy doesn’t literally mean betrayal, it does symbolize quick movements and aggression. That means don’t rush into things, especially in relationships. Just because opportunities come knocking doesn’t mean you have to grab them all at once. As he puts it, 2025 is a deceiving year. "May tendency mamaya na ma-deceive din tayo sa apple na inaalok sa atin ng taon. Huwag tayong maging masyadong greedy for the year." So, be discerning. Remember, not everything that glitters is gold. Another way to invite luck is through colors. According to Coach Johnson, white symbolizes good resources, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to attract opportunities. Gold and silver, representing the metal element, are also great choices.
If you’re aiming for calmness and wisdom to help navigate new opportunities, blue is your go-to lucky color, as it’s tied to the water element. Meanwhile, yellow, rooted in the earth element, is all about stability—which is crucial in a year filled with transformation and rebirth. If you’re looking to activate your lucky directions, the Southwest sector is where you want to focus first. Make sure it's clean and free from any leaks, which is said to cause money to slip away. And definitely avoid placing anything water-related in this area, as it could stir up third-party problems. For those with big investment plans this year, the East sector is your best spot, as it has the lucky 9 star, which symbolizes completion. To boost its energy, you can add something red to the East.
If you’re on the hunt for new opportunities, the Southeast sector has the victory star, which will be your best friend in 2025. Here, you can add water elements or anything that moves to keep that energy flowing. And if career advancement is your goal, adding a horse image in the Southeast could help gallop your dreams forward. Finally, Coach Johnson recommends placing your vision board in the South sector.
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to 'money-fest' big this year, right? To turn financial prosperity on, you may opt for items that symbolize wealth, such as a money tree. You may also prepare a prosperity bowl, which may contain rice, a 9-lantern charm for hope and opportunity, a Wolou charm for good health, and an elephant charm for stability. Don’t forget a love booklet charm to boost love energy and a wealth coin to attract abundance.
Kim shared that preparing a prosperity bowl is one of their family’s traditions on Chinese New Year's Eve. They also practice the wishing paper ritual, where one writes down their wish on a paper and burn it. Kim can vouch for its manifestation prowess, saying that many of her wishes have already come true with this ritual. The good news is, even if you miss burning it on New Year's Eve, you can always carry out the ritual during the next new moon.
As for the New Year spread, make sure to include certain dishes for a boost in luck. Pansit, which symbolizes longevity, is a must. Don’t forget to include some green veggies for health and prosperity, and serve chicken (its wings symbolize good news, hope, and opportunity). Round food items, such as dim sum, will make the year smooth sailing. An of course, fish is always a good idea, since it symbolizes abundance, but make sure it’s served whole, not chopped. Lastly, don’t forget tikoy, which represents togetherness in the family.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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'Pinoy Big Brother' celebrates 20th anniversary with historic collaboration
January 29 ------ "Pinoy Big Brother" marks its 20th anniversary with an exciting milestone as GMA Network and ABS-CBN collaborate for its newest season, "PBB Celebrity Edition Collab."
For the first time, PBB opens the doors of the iconic Bahay ni Kuya to welcome GMA Sparkle artists, alongside ABS-CBN's Star Magic talents. "Together, Kapuso and Kapamilya stars will collaborate and create unforgettable moments inside the PBB house," the statement read.
Source: mb.com.ph
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Filipino-Canadians crown pageant veteran as Miss Universe PH 2025 bet
January 29 ------ The Filipino community in Canada will be participating in the Miss Universe Philippines pageant for the first time this year, with not just one, but two delegates to represent “The Great White North.” Two Filipino-Canadian women were proclaimed queens at the coronation ceremonies of the first staging of the Miss Filipinas Worldwide pageant held in New Westminster, British Columbia.
Kristel David was crowned Miss Filipinas Worldwide, while international pageant veteran Jessica Cianchino received the Miss Filipinas Global title, trouncing 17 other women from all over Canada for the two crowns at stake in the competition. David also took home the Best in Evening Gown award and Miss Arctic Fame Diamonds title, while Cianchino won the Miss Photogenic award. Cianchino represented Canada in the 2019 Miss Asia Pacific International pageant in Manila, where she finished as second runner-up. She once again carried the North American country in the 2022 Miss Earth pageant, also held in Manila.
Stephanie Artuz, who was earlier proclaimed as Miss Graceful Esssence, settled for the first runner-up spot, while Miss SELC College Rochelle Kristen Canlas finished as second runner-up. David and Cianchino will fly to Manila soon to compete in the 2025 Miss Universe Philippines pageant, and the two ladies will be representing Canada. The specific areas of the country that they will carry in the national tilt will be revealed soon.
Reigning Miss Universe Asia Chelsea Manalo will relinquish her national title to her successor, who will be chosen among the more than 80 participants from across the Philippines and from different overseas communities. The new queen will take part in the 74th Miss Universe pageant later this year.
Source: inquirer.net
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SPORTS NEWS
NBA: Amen Thompson has night to remember as Rockets sneak by Celtics
January 29 ------ Amen Thompson made a game-winning floater with 1.3 seconds remaining to polish off a career night, lifting the visiting Houston Rockets to a 114-112 victory over the short-handed Boston Celtics. Thompson's bucket in the lane gave him a career-high 33 points. He also finished with 10 rebounds and four assists to help Houston get a win in coach Ime Udoka's return to Boston, where he was at the helm during the 2021-22 season.
Payton Pritchard had one last chance to win the game for the Celtics, but his full-court heave at the buzzer only found the top of the backboard. Dillon Brooks drilled a career-high 10 3-pointers en route to a game-high 36 points for the Rockets, who won despite once trailing by 12 points in the fourth quarter. Jalen Green added 12 points, and Alperen Sengun netted 11.
Jaylen Brown led Boston with 28 points. The Celtics received 19 points from Jayson Tatum, who did all of his scoring in the second half. Luke Kornet finished with 18 points and seven rebounds, and Pritchard made five 3-pointers and added 15 points. Tatum, who entered the contest averaging a team-high 27.1 points per game, was 0-for-5 from the field in the first two quarters. He tied the game at 112 with 5.3 seconds left before Thompson's heroics. The Celtics played without two of their top 3-point shooters, as Derrick White (shin contusion) and Sam Hauser (hip impingement) were both ruled out with injuries. In addition, Al Horford (toe) was scratched minutes before the opening tip.
Houston used a 14-0 run to take a 29-22 lead with 1:15 remaining in the opening quarter and had a 31-27 edge after 12 minutes of play. The Rockets extended their lead to 50-39 on a Fred VanVleet 3-pointer with 4:12 left in the first half, but Boston was within two points, 54-52, at intermission. Boston went up 87-85 after Tatum made three free throws with 38.8 seconds left in the third quarter and had an 89-85 lead entering the fourth. The Celtics' advantage swelled to 12 points with 8:38 to play, but Houston scored the next 13 to take the lead with 5:23 left.
Source: gmanetwork.com
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EJ Obiena launches 2025 season in German indoor meet
January 29 ------ Two-time Olympic pole vaulter EJ Obiena makes his 2025 debut in Germany as he joins the International Jump Meeting Cottbus today.
The 29-year-old Obiena will launch his season at Lausitz-Arena where he won a silver two years ago. He cleared 5.77 meters in that event, finishing behind gold winner Sam Kendricks of the USA (5.82m) and ahead of bronze medalist Ben Broeders of Belgium (5.72m).
Obiena, an Asian and Southeast Asian Games champion, is excited to open another year in his already decorated career. “Back at it after what seems like forever! On the 29th, I’ll be kicking off my indoor season in Cottbus, Germany,” Obiena said on his social media post. “I’m excited to be back in the thick of things and to see what’s in store,” he added.
Elite pole vaulters are expected to join as well in the competition which serves as a springboard for upcoming major events including the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China slated March 21 to 23. This also marks Obiena’s return after his long respite last year due to a lower back injury.
Source: mb.com.ph
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Esports giants Team Falcons, Twisted Minds formalize entry into MLBB PH scene
MANILA, Philippines, January 29 ------ Team Falcons and Twisted Minds, esports organizations from Saudi Arabia, have formalized their entry into the Philippines' Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) scene.
In an intimate business luncheon held in Makati City, the world renowned teams have officially revealed that they have taken slots "transferred" by Blacklist International and RSG Philippines. Both squads have expressed their respective desires to leave their own marks in our country's esports community, sharing a common reason why they chose Philippines to venture in — it is the strongest MLBB region. "The Philippines is the strongest region for MLBB players, from a competitive point of view," Grant Rousseau, Team Falcons Global Director of Esports, said. "After an initial test year with AP Bren, the organization now understands the market's competitive nature, and we are ready to pick up our own franchise and team to compete and to win," Rousseau added.
"We wanted to have our own journey in the Philippines' MLBB esports scene as it is the best one, especially when it comes to community building and competition," Ibrahim Bin Jibreen, Twisted Minds chief executive officer and founder, expressed. "We're excited to bring opportunities for players, coaches, and managers — all of them will be composed of Filipinos. It will be an opportunity for us to know the Filipino market by working with them and we will provide them with a place to work in," Jibreen went on.
Both teams will participate in MPL PH Season 15, commencing this March.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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