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.
1USD=Php 57. 79 1JPY=Php 0.38
As of October 24, 2024
October 20, 2024
Brought to you by:
1 USD =
1 Yen =
57.71
0.38
HEADLINES
UK Tries to Prevent "Fire-Rehire" Outsourcing of British Mariners' Jobs
New EU-funded project launched to replace fossil fuels in maritime transport
Rice stocks up 7% year-on-year
New Migrant Workers Offices opened in Hungary, Austria
ASF vaccination to be expanded outside Batangas soon
LTO-NCR nets 5,769 traffic rules violators from July to Sept
What Shanne Dandan learned from Lea Salonga in ‘The Voice Kids’ season 1
Kuh Ledesma: 'Attitude' can lead to a singer's downfall
Juan Karlos to headline first major concert at MOA Arena
PBA Legends still fan faves
UAAP Cheerdance Competition set for December 1
FULL NEWSPAPER
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
‘Unprecedented stress’ on water resources causing global crisis, say experts
BANGKOK, October 20 ------ A drastic shift in global water management is needed to avoid a “tragedy” that would damage economies, threaten food production and undermine human well-being, warn experts.
In a new report published by the Global Commission on the Economics of Water (GCEW), launched on Oct 17, leading independent experts from science, economics and policy-making said “unprecedented stress” on water systems has caused a crisis that will worsen in the decades to come. This is as Singapore’s president and GCEW co-chair Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam urged for wider perspectives when it comes to tackling issues of water governance. “We can only solve this crisis if we think in much broader terms about how we govern water,” Mr. Tharman said in a statement.
The experts found that the global water cycle - the process by which water is continuously moved throughout the Earth and atmosphere - had been persistently mismanaged and further imperiled by climate change and destructive land use. “As this vital resource becomes increasingly scarce, food security and human development are at risk — and we are allowing this to happen,” said Mr. Johan Rockström, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) and another of GCEW’s four co-chairs, in a statement.
By 2050, the report found that high-income countries are set to lose an average of 8 per cent of their gross domestic product, due to changing rain patterns, rising temperatures and declining water storage levels. The impacts could hit agriculture and irrigation systems hard, with half of the world’s food production - in areas home to three billion people - at risk by mid-century. In lower-income countries, GDP loss could reach 15 per cent, it said, highlighting high-population density hotspots, including northwestern India, northeastern China and south and eastern Europe as particularly vulnerable. Normal precipitation - which so many communities rely on - can no longer be trusted, a scenario adversely affecting poorer populations, which are more likely to both rely on rainfall and be impacted by deforestation.
To combat the crisis, a recalibrated approach to the economics of water should be considered, the report stated, to repair the “misaligned policies” that currently exist. That would mean exploring the merits of water trading further through regulated markets and valuing water more as natural capital - something from nature with intrinsic value rather than a resource with short-term costs and benefits. “The global water crisis is a tragedy but is also an opportunity to transform the economics of water and to start by valuing water properly so as to recognize its scarcity and the many benefits it delivers,” Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, director-general of the World Trade Organization and a co-chair of the commission said in a statement.
The report also advocated for the underinvestment in water systems to be addressed, both from private and public sources and the redirection of harmful subsidies in the water sector that can lead to water overexploitation and wastage. For example, governments may currently offer low tariffs for certain industries below the real economic cost of water - or to sectors that further contribute to the crisis, such as the fossil fuel industry. The further adoption of clean energy and artificial intelligence presented a critical challenge to ensure these nascent technologies do not contribute further to water misuse, the report said. They can be highly water-intensive - and demand is growing. Google’s data centers used some 20 billion liters of fresh water in 2022, for example, based on research done at Cornell University last year. It found that “multilateral governance of water is fragmented, incomplete and ineffective”, despite water being a resource that crosses boundaries and broadly intersects across communities and economies.
Notably, water touches on nearly every aspect of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, collective objectives aimed at eradicating poverty, promoting prosperity and protecting the planet, it said. The findings call for world governments to “reinvigorate” international cooperation to find answers to shared challenges through the establishment of a Global Water Pact. Such a pact would set out goals and safeguard water resources for sustainable future use.
Source: channelnewsasia.com
----------------------
LAKE FOREST, California, October 20 ------ To cheers and applause from kids wearing spacesuits and star-studded T-shirts, a tree was planted in California that is out of this world. The so-called "Moon Tree" grown with seeds that were flown around the moon was wheeled out in a wagon accompanied by several students carrying shovels to help dig its new home at Santiago STEAM Magnet Elementary School in Lake Forest.
The school, which has roughly 500 students in grades K-12, was among those selected to receive a seedling for a giant sequoia that was grown with seeds flown on NASA's Artemis I Mission in 2022. "It's kind of crazy," said Emily Aguesse, a sixth grader who participated in Monday's ceremony welcoming the tree. "I've always wanted to go to space but this motivates it even more."
It's the second time that NASA has flown seeds into space and brought them back for planting. An astronaut for the Apollo 14 mission in 1971 who was a former U.S. Forest Service smokejumper carried seeds that later were grown into the first generation of Moon Trees, which were planted in states spanning from Alabama to Washington. While many of those seedlings were distributed to national monuments, this latest batch has been given to schools and museums to promote science and conservation education and help bring space down to Earth, said Paul Propster, chief story architect for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. "It's just kind of cool and fun to connect the next generation of explorers," Propster said. It isn't known whether space travel has an effect on how plants grow and scientists continue to study the topic, he said.
In 2022, NASA and the Forest Service flew nearly 2,000 seeds from five species of trees aboard the unmanned Orion spacecraft, which went into lunar orbit and spent about four weeks traveling in space. Once back on Earth, the seeds were grown into young sycamores, sweetgums, Douglas firs, loblolly pines and giant sequoias that could be shared with the public through an application process. Nearly 150 seedlings were distributed earlier in the year, and another batch is expected this fall, NASA officials said.
Santiago a science and technology-focused magnet school — planted its tree in a space-themed outdoor garden decorated with colorful stones painted by students. The school's parent and teacher association will have community volunteers care for the Moon Tree, which is expected to grow in girth and stature for decades amid a grove of eucalyptus that shades the campus in Southern California. Colorful ropes were laid in circles on the ground to show students how big the tree could grow 50 years from now and 500. "This tree will grow with the kids," said Liz Gibson, who has three children at the school and chaired the NASA Moon Tree ceremony.
Source: manilatimes.net
---------------------------------------------------------------
MARITIME NEWS
UK Tries to Prevent "Fire-Rehire" Outsourcing of British Mariners' Jobs
October 20 ------ The United Kingdom government is cracking down on rogue employers with a new bill that is designed to protect seafarers from exploitation and unfair practices. The new Employment Rights Bill contains another attempt to prevent a repeat of the 2022 unilateral sacking of about 800 seafarers by P&O Ferries, among many other provisions.
While it has many facets, the bill is particularly keen on protecting seafarers by introducing a measure that will end ‘fire and rehire’ practices except where employers genuinely have no alternative. The move is intended to prevent a repeat of the March 2022 controversy in which P&O Ferries fired its seagoing employees and replaced them with lower-cost foreign seafarers. The decision was widely condemned.
In the new bill, the government is also seeking to close loopholes exploited by P&O Ferries by toughening the collective redundancy notification requirements for operators of foreign vessels. If enacted into law, it means that operators planning to dismiss 20 or more employees will first be legally required to notify the government - or face potential prosecution or an unlimited fine.
In 2022, the UK government and union leaders were upset by P&O Ferries' decision to declare 786 seafarers redundant without prior notice or consultations with workers’ unions. The company, owned by DP World, announced plans to move to a new operating model using agency workers to crew its ships who would be paid less than UK minimum wages.
Last year, the government took the first measure to protect seafarers from unfair practices, end exploitation and improve the working conditions for seafarers by compelling shipping lines to pay seafarers better wages. The Seafarers’ Wages Act compels liners to pay seafarers working on ships that use UK ports at least 120 times a year a wage rate that is at least equivalent to the country’s national minimum wage.
Operators who fail to comply would be forced to pay a surcharge at each port call while continued non-compliance could see operators refused access to UK ports. The government hopes that following the introduction of the new bill, the maritime sector will become more appealing. “We’re on a mission to end exploitative work and we’re legally enshrining our promises so no employer can abuse the system to rob their workers of the basic rights and dignity they deserve. What we saw with P&O Ferries was an outrageous example of manipulation by an employer and exactly why we’re taking bold action to improve job security in the UK,” said Angela Rayner, Deputy Prime Minister.
Apart from focusing on seafarers and the shipping sector, the bill contains a total of 28 measures that broadly overhaul workers’ rights in the UK. It is being touted as representing the biggest upgrade in employment rights for a generation in the country.
Source: maritime-executive.com
----------------------
China Dominates Shipbuilding in 2024 Booking Three-Quarters of Orders
October 20 ------ Chinese officials released figures for the shipbuilding industry in the first nine months of 2024 reporting that its yards have dominated new orders and expanded their global leadership. The numbers will undoubtedly further fuel the growing global sentiment against China’s shipbuilding dominance and the specific protests by trade groups in the United States and Canada. China’s Association of the National Shipbuilding Industry (CANSI) reported that its yards had received nearly 75 percent of the overall orders placed in 2024 or a total of 87.11 million dwt. The report said the volume is up nearly 52 percent over 2023 as China continues to grow its shipbuilding output. They calculated the Chinese enterprise now accounts for 61.4 percent of the global newbuilding orders or a total of 193.3 million dwt.
The report highlights that China is now leading the orders for 14 out of the 18 major types of shipbuilding projects and that many of its yards are exceeding their annual targets. Major companies are adding additional capacity which helped China to grow its shipbuilding output by over 18 percent in the first nine months of 2024. Chinese shipbuilders completed 36.34 million dwt so far in 2024.
Chinese media reports cite the country’s well-established supply chain, ability to deliver vessels on time, and cost-reduction efforts. However, critics point to a heavily subsidized state-controlled industry while they contend that commercial shipbuilding is being used to support the rapid growth of the Chinese navy. Most of the shipbuilding is carried out by the multiple companies controlled by China State Shipbuilding Company (CSSC), a state-controlled enterprise that is further moving to consolidate its dominance. It recently announced a reorganization to further absorb its subsidiary China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation.
South Korea has long been the only significant rival to China, but recent data shows it is slipping. Just released September numbers from Clarkson Research said that the South Korean yards accounted for only 12 percent of the orders placed in the month. Order volume was down overall by 25 percent year-over-year, but 90 ships were contracted with 65 going to China and just 14 to South Korea. China won orders for 2.48 million CGT versus just 340,000 for the Korean yards. Clarkson calculates that China has 55 percent of the global shipbuilding backlog while Korea has 26 percent of the orders. Japan is a distant third.
The U.S. Trade Office is reviewing a complaint filed by a collation of unions including steelworkers that cites China for unfair trade practices and state subsidies for the industry. They are calling for the U.S. to impose a tariff on Chinese-built ships, which was also picked up by trade groups in Canada. The Canadian Marine Industries and Shipbuilding Association (CMISA) at the end of August issued a call for the Canadian government to impose a 100 percent tariff on Chinese-built ships. Chinese officials have called the U.S. complaint protectionism. They said that the problems in the U.S. shipbuilding industry are long-term, endemic problems, going far beyond competition from China.
Source: maritime-executive.com
----------------------
New EU-funded project launched to replace fossil fuels in maritime transport
October 20 ------ A group of eleven European partners has launched a new project that seeks to replace the use of fossil fuels and reduce emissions and marine pollution, leading to the decarbonization of maritime transport. The project named MARPOWER (Efficient zero-emissions gas turbine POWER system for MARitime transport) is funded by the European Union (EU) with nearly €8 million and will run for two years. The project kicked off in September 2024 at LUT University in Finland.
It focuses on developing a novel flexible energy conversion system capable of using a wide range of sustainable fuels such as green methanol, hydrogen, and ammonia, with no or minor need for modification of the combustion system. A key priority will be ensuring that the system remains both technically and economically competitive, facilitating its integration into existing ships.
As explained, the project will involve the development of a gas turbine combustor specifically designed for alternative fuels, and an active magnetic bearing (AMB) system supported two-shaft gas turbine with a bottoming cycle for maximizing the performance and efficiency of power generation and use on board the ship. The integration and validation of the system’s performance will be executed using a digital twin model that will create a virtual replica of the system and its components. This will enable simulation and analysis of the energy conversion processes and power supply on cargo and cruise ships, for both electric shop propulsion and cogeneration applications.
Additionally, prototypes of critical system components, including the combustion chamber, high-pressure shaft system, and recuperator, will be developed and tested for system design optimization. A moving platform will also be designed and constructed to replicate the ship movements during testing of the AMB system.
The project will be coordinated by LUT University and executed by a multidisciplinary consortium, comprising eleven entities from six different countries: Aurelia Turbines and Alfa Laval Aalborg from Finland; Politecnico di Milano; Rina Consulting and Rina Services from Italy; University of Vigo and Zabala Innovation from Spain, the German Aerospace Center (DLR) from Germany; the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) from Denmark; and Chantiers de L’Atlantique from France.
Source: offshore-energy.biz
---------------------------------------------------------------
PHILIPPINE NEWS
DMW, TESDA ink deal to boost skills of OFWs
October 20 ------ The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Tuesday inked a memorandum of agreement to enhance the skills and employability of the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and TESDA Director-General Jose Francisco Benitez signed the agreement which will provide skills and livelihood training programs to the OFWs. “Skills are not only a means to gain employment. But skills are the highest form of OFW protection,” Cacdac said as quoted in a news release. “Once an OFW steps up to the level of a globally integrated skilled, enhanced worker, that worker will become more productive, more happy, more able to contribute to his family, to his community and to his nation,” he added.
During the signing at the TESDA office in Taguig City, TESDA and DMW initially released 249 scholarship training certificates for selected qualified beneficiaries. The DMW said the agreement would help augment the program to reintegrate OFWs and their families through scholarship grants for skills and livelihood training.
The partnership would also equip OFWs with expertise that they can use in acquiring decent jobs and to establish and eventually manage their own businesses should they decide to return in the country for good. Under the agreement, DMW shall advocate for training programs focused on upskilling, re-skilling, and cross-skilling., including Competency Assessment and Certification; identify, pre-evaluate, and recommend to TESDA, eligible OFWs and their family members; endorse to TESDA returning OFWs qualified to become trainers and/or assessors; identify, assess, and recommend technical vocational courses and training centers abroad that have the potential for conducting skills training programs; and provide TESDA with labor market information (LMI).
TESDA, on the other hand, shall conduct orientation on TESDA programs and services available for OFWs and their families; provide skills training, assessment, and certification to OFWs and their families endorsed by DMW based on the skills priorities; conduct language and culture training to the outbound OFWs, implement the Overseas Scholarship Program for OFWs while in the host country; conduct competency assessment for OFWs in the host country; and conduct capability building interventions for trainers and assessors endorsed by DMW.
Meanwhile, the agreement will not only benefit the OFWs, but their dependents as well. “As mandated by the President himself, alagaan ang mga pamilya, ang kapakanan ng mga pamilya ng mga OFWs (we will take care of the family, the welfare of the family of the OFWs),” Cacdac said.
Source: philstar.com
----------------------
Rice stocks up 7% year-on-year
MANILA, Philippines, October 20 ------ The country’s rice stocks in September rose by almost seven percent on an annual basis to nearly 1.7 million metric tons (MT) on the back of higher inventories held by commercial entities and the National Food Authority (NFA). The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that nationwide rice stocks as of Sept. 1 stood at 1.66 million MT, 6.8 percent higher than the 1.55 million MT recorded in the same period last year.
The increase was driven by higher rice inventories in commercial entities and NFA warehouses, according to the PSA report. Rice stocks in commercial entities rose by 16.4 percent to 1.05 million MT from last year’s 902,290 MT. NFA warehouses, on the other hand, held 151,160 MT of rice during the reference month, almost triple the 50,950 MT it had in September last year. Meanwhile, household rice stocks fell by 23.7 percent year-on-year to 457,820 MT from 600,170 MT last year.
In contrast, rice stocks declined on a monthly basis as recorded inventories in commercial warehouses and households fell, according to the PSA report. Industry sources said the lower rice stocks could be attributed to private traders and importers opting to deplete their old stocks before replenishing these with newer ones, coupled with households unable to build up their stocks at home due to high retail prices.
Rice stocks in households declined month-on-month by 17 percent while inventory of commercial warehouses decreased by 9.8 percent versus August figures, based on PSA data. NFA rice stocks, meanwhile, remained relatively flat on a monthly basis. “Of this month’s total rice stocks, 63.3 percent were from the commercial sector, 27.6 percent were from the households, and 9.1 percent were from the NFA depositories,” the PSA said.
The United States Department of Agriculture – Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) in Manila projected that NFA rice stocks would continue to increase in succeeding months while household stocks would sustain a decrease. “FAS Manila forecasts that stocks of the commercial sector will decrease once old import stocks are liquidated, given tariff reductions until 2028,” it said.
Source: philstar.com
----------------------
Airlines gear up for Undas exodus
MANILA, October 20 ------ Airlines are gearing up for the expected influx of fliers in time for the All Saints Day and All Souls Day holidays. AirAsia said it has seen an increase in bookings, while Cebu Pacific estimates it will handle nearly a million passengers during the Undas travel period.
AirAsia said it already has sold 50,000 seats on its flights from October 30 to November 3. The budget airline has advised its customers to brace for the influx of travelers by picking flexible flight schedules. “Never fly out on the day of the holiday and return on the same schedule where everyone else is expected to fly back to Manila to avoid heavy traffic brought about by the exodus of travelers to Manila,” the airline said. AirAsia the top destinations booked for this season are Boracay, Cebu, Bohol, Tacloban, Puerto Princesa, and Iloilo. When it comes to international destinations, meanwhile, the top tourist picks are Taipei, Incheon, Narita and Bangkok.
Cebu Pacific meanwhile said it is projecting nearly 1 million passengers who are flying with 5J for Undas peak travel period. "With the addition of new routes and enhanced capacity, we expect a significant increase in passenger numbers this year," the airline said. it said that the most popular destinations are Cebu, Hong Kong, Iloilo, Davao, and Boracay.
The Gokongwei-led airline also said it sees improved performance for this year's Christmas and New Year holidays, supported by increased capacity from the recently added routes. The Civil Aeronautics Board said several airlines have filed for an increase in fares in anticipation of the higher fees that will be charged by the new private operator of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
----------------------
New Migrant Workers Offices opened in Hungary, Austria
MANILA, Philippines, October 20 ------ The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has opened new satellite offices in Budapest, Hungary, and Vienna, Austria, amid growing overseas Filipino worker (OFW) populations in the areas, the department announced. Apart from the 8,000 OFWs the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Vienna will cater to in Austria, it will also cover 12,000 OFWs in Croatia, Slovenia, and Slovakia.
Most of the workers are in the hospitality, food service, health, social work, and manufacturing industries. Meanwhile, the jurisdiction of the MWO in Budapest covers Hungary, with around 12,000 OFWs, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Moldova, and Montenegro, with a total of 5,373 OFWs. Most OFWs in Hungary are employed in the manufacturing, agriculture, and food service industries. “Under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his vision for Bagong Pilipinas, we aim to make the services of DMW accessible to OFWs and their families. The presence of MWOs will ensure timely delivery of assistance and services to overseas workers,” Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac said in a statement.
On October 4, the DMW and Croatia’s Ministry of Labor, Pension System, Family and Social Policy also signed a memorandum of cooperation, which opened doors to more job opportunities for Filipinos in the country. Prior to the MWOs opening, OFWs in the covered areas had to coordinate with the MWO in Milan, Italy. MWOs, in coordination with the Philippine embassies and consulates, are in charge of all matters related to Filipino workers based and being recruited for work in the host countries. The offices also guide foreign employers through the legal process of hiring Filipino workers.
The new MWOs are the first put up since the DMW was created in end-2021. MWOs used to be called Philippine Overseas Labor Offices, which were under the Department of Labor and Employment. The 39 POLOs were transferred to the jurisdiction of the DMW and were renamed MWOs. The Budapest and Vienna offices are the 40th and 41st. The department plans to open MWOs in Bangkok and Guam before 2024 ends.
Source: rappler.com
----------------------
NCR malls to adjust mall hours this holiday season to alleviate traffic
MANILA, October 20 ------ The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority ( MMDA) and mall operators in the National Capital Region agreed to adjust mall hours this holiday season to alleviate traffic congestion. MMDA officials and mall operators in NCR met in Pasig City to discuss ways to help reduce traffic in the metro in the coming months. MMDA chairman Atty. Romando Artes said all malls in the NCR will open by 11 am starting Nov 18.
Representatives of major malls expressed their willingness to follow the adjusted mall hours. “Kung napupuna this few years, hindi na nakaka-experience ng carmaggedon - Hindi man nababawasan yung number of vehicles, na-I-spread natin sya ng mas mahabang oras, hindi nagkukumpol - normally pag naging heavy sa traffic, nag-e-extend yan beyond rush hour we believe na hindi man mabawasan yun volume eh hindi sumusobrang tarffic, hindi nga tayo nakakaranas ng carmageddon recently,” Artes said.
But MMDA said it is up to the mall operators to extend their operating hours to accommodate last-minute mall shoppers. According to the MMDA, there are 131 malls in Metro Manila of which 29 are located along EDSA. Artes also announced that effective November 18 until Christmas day, all road diggings will be temporarily suspended to avoid traffic congestion in major thoroughfares. From December 26 to January 2, 2025, the MMDA will allow road works of public utilities and DPWH 24/7.
Based on the MMDA data, as of September, the vehicle volume count along EDSA has reached 421,000 a day. Artes said the previous speed of about 20kph to 21kph along EDSA is now down to just about 19kph on the Northbound lane and around 18kph on the Southbound lane. ”Sa ating kababayan, ine-encourage ko silang gumamit ng mass transportation, kasi mas mabilis po sila na makarating sa kanilang pupuntahan…iplanong mabuti yung ating pagbiyahe, huwag sumabay sa rush hour traffic, planunin yung araw ng paglabas. siguraduyin yung magdadala ng saakyan, nakakundisyon - kasi recently nakikita natmin yung increase ng stalled vehicles, ito ay nakaka-contribute sa pagbigay ng traffic. Sa mga nagmamaneho, magbapon po ng mahabang pasensiya,” Artes said.
Mall operators said they would issue corresponding advisories on their social media pages to announce their final adjusted mall hours.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
----------------------
PH to localize disaster management
October 20 ------ The Philippines will push for the localization of disaster risk management while developing the country’s early warning system by learning from other Asia Pacific countries, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said.
On the first day of the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said a single hazard is addressed in different ways because of the country’s varied geographies. The Philippines, being the most prone to natural hazards in the world, is facing more disaster threats as these hazards become more intense due to climate change. “So we need to be able to develop, number one, early warning systems that actually speak to the different contexts of our communities, it’s not just one warning. Secondly, we need to develop an understanding of what the warnings actually say,” Loyzaga said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency.
She explained that currently, most of the Philippines’ warnings are “based on the description of the hazard”, and that there is a need to contextualize these warnings for the people to understand the hazard they are facing. Unfortunately, she said ordinary people, more often than not, do not really understand the danger of each disaster that hits the country, especially when the warnings are transmitted in a language that they cannot understand. Meanwhile, the head of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) praised the Philippines’ people-centered approach in disaster risk reduction.
UNDRR chief Kamal Kishore said the Philippines is already “way ahead” of the DRR curve as focus on communities, which are often the most affected during calamities, is an essential component of reducing and managing disaster risks. “The work that is being done in Philippines can be a lighthouse to the rest of the region, and, indeed the world,” he said at a media reception.
On top of making sure that policies and projects come together at the local level, Kishore said the close collaboration between government agencies in the Philippines is a policy that other states should also replicate. “Also very unique is how you bring together different parts of the government there are two secretaries in the media event and there are other departments involved throughout the conference it is not something that you see very often in many countries,” he said.
Joining Kishore at the forum were Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Environment Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga. The APMCDRR will take place in the country until Oct. 18, with about 4,000 delegates from various Asia Pacific countries, including the Philippines. The conference brings together governments, intergovernmental, international, national, and civil society organizations, the private sector, science, academia, and stakeholder groups to accelerate progress in reducing disaster risk.
Source: manilastandard.net
----------------------
ASF vaccination to be expanded outside Batangas soon
MANILA, October 20 ------ Vaccination against African swine fever is expected to be rolled out in areas outside Batangas, an official said. On the sidelines of the National Meat Safety Consciousness Week, Agriculture Undersecretary for Livestock Deogracias Victor Savellano said they would try new strategies in expediting vaccine rollout. "Nag-usap kami ni Secretary [Francisco Tiu Laurel] the other day, na kailangan talaga bilisan ang rollout, as we have a commitment na by November, yung 10,000 doses, ma-rollout na natin," Savellano said.
Since the rollout of the ASF vaccine, less than a thousand swine in Lobo and Lipa have been inoculated. "May mga new strategies na gagawin, yung mga regional directors will look for yung mga gusto na magpa-vaccine," he said. Savellano said the rollout was slow because the process required blood testing of swine to confirm they are ASF-free. He said small backyard owners were hesitant with this because pigs infected have to be culled.
However, Savellano said that while they could not entirely remove testing as part of the vaccination process, they were studying other possibilities. He said biosecurity should be tight not just for hogs, but also for other animals. "Minsan nako-control natin, minsan hindi. Kailangan talaga natin palakasin ang biosecurity. Yun ang nakikita natin na kailangan natin pagtuunan ng pansin," he said.
Over the recent years, the agriculture department has battled African swine fever, avian influenza, and cases of Q fever.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
----------------------
LTO-NCR nets 5,769 traffic rules violators from July to Sept
MANILA, Philippines, October 20 ------ The Land Transportation Office-National Capital Region (LTO-NCR) caught 5,769 motorists in Metro Manila for various traffic rules violations from July to September.
LTO-NCR Director Roque Verzosa III said Friday that from the figure, 2,451 motorists were apprehended for violating Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code; 1,625, for unbuckled seat belts; and 593, for wearing unauthorized motorcycle helmets.
Verzosa explained that among violations of the Land Transportation and Traffic Code were unregistered motor vehicles (355) and driving vehicles with defective accessories, devices, equipment, or parts (888).
Source: inquirer.net
---------------------------------------------------------------
ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
What Shanne Dandan learned from Lea Salonga in ‘The Voice Kids’ season 1
October 20 ------ Former “The Voice Kids” contestant Shanne Dandan shared that “singing with your heart” is the memorable lesson she learned from Broadway star Lea Salonga, which becomes essential now that she has ventured into professional singing by releasing her debut album “Kung Iyong Mamarapatin.”
During a recent media roundtable interview and listening session for her album, Dandan shared that joining “The Voice Kids season 1” was a significant experience in her journey as an artist. “Yung natutunan ko siguro with Coach Lea is singing with your heart. Syempre si Ms. Lea grabe rin siya kumanta. Mafi-feel mo talaga ‘yung soul niya. I think ‘yon ‘yung pinakamemorable lesson ko from The Voice Kids. Nadala ko rin ‘yon with my own songs, na dapat lagay mo ‘yung puso mo sa bawat kanta na kakantahin o susulatin mo,” she said.
The indie-folk singer was only 12 years old when she joined the singing competition, and in her blind auditions she sang Up Dharma Down’s “Tadhana” and earned a nod from coach Bamboo Mañalac and Salonga. She ended up choosing the latter as her coach. She was in the same batch as grand winner Lyca Gairanod and runner-up Darren Espanto. After her stint in “The Voice Kids,” Dandan joined TV5’s “Born to Be a Star,” and despite acknowledging her experience in singing competitions, the now 24-year-old singer underscored that she has today more “creative freedom” in her artistry than before. “Before po kasi I used to follow lang po ‘yung mga tinuturo sakin. As a young person, ‘yung rules talaga kailangan mo siya [sundin]. ‘Yung mga technique, ‘yung singing ko rin non is very restricted rin, like dapat technique na ganito, ganiyan. So parang ngayon, I’m super free na to sing whatever I want to,” stated the singer.
Dandan also weighed in on the local stereotype that you have to be able to belt out songs in order to be considered good. “Compared po before na dapat pang contest lang parang may ganun po kasing culture sa Filipino singers parang kapag hindi ka bumibirit hindi ka magaling.” Dandan’s debut album, “Kung Iyong Mamarapatin,” explores her experience with emotional growth, pain and self-discovery. It is composed of 10 tracks including “Gemini” and “Iyakin.”
Source: inquirer.net
----------------------
Kuh Ledesma: 'Attitude' can lead to a singer's downfall
October 20 ------ Pop Diva Kuh Ledesma has expressed her belief that young singers who possess a negative attitude could ultimately bring about their own downfall in the music industry. During a recent virtual interview on Zoom, Kuh offered valuable advice to aspiring young singers, emphasizing the importance of practicing humility in their musical journey. "Maraming mga artist na may mga attitude, which can be their downfall. May pride. Sabi nga sa Bible, pride comes before a fall," she said. "Humility is power."
On how to stay grounded, Kuh said: "You surround yourself with the right influencers who will be sincere in helping and supporting you — people who will not give up on you no matter how big you are. "It takes work to become so big and stay grounded suddenly. Depende yan sa character ng tao." Kuh also expressed her opinions regarding aspiring singers and offered insights for those looking to pursue a career in singing. "Dapat talaga may talent ka. Kasi you could be wasting a lot of your time trying to make it na hindi ka pala para doon. Halos lahat marunong kumanta but is it the road that God is directing you? "The most important thing also is to work with the best. Learn how to sing properly kasi may mga maling placement. So practice hard," Kuh added.
Kuh also said it was okay for aspiring singers to copy the style of their idols, but they should evolve. "Sa umpisa okay lang naman dahil they are still young so talagang may susundan silang singers. And they would sound the same. "But in the end, naiiba na rin ang kanilang placement. Namo-mould naman nila in their own style. "Kahit ako, in the beginning, I listen a lot to Barbra Streisand, kahit na yung mga Tagalog songs ko at English hits, they would say I sound like Barbra Streisand. She was like a mentor to me. Iba yung hagod niya and that's how I learned how to sing. I didn't have a budget to go to a private teacher. Later on na lang," Kuh said.
Kuh paid tribute to composer Cecille Azarcon who also gave her lessons in music. "Si Cecile Azarcon din yung nagturo sa akin. Pero kay Cecille, four or five lessons lang yun. What I discovered was for as long as I was singing, just practising, magkakaroon ka ng discovery about your talent. Nadi-discover mo yung another style mo. Natuto ka ng ibang way way," she said. Aside from Barbra, Kuh idolizes the late Whitney Houston. "To me, the most prominent singer is Whitney Houston. Ang tawag ko talaga sa kanya ay artist. I admire her placement, tonal quality, and artistry niya in singing; nobody can beat her. "I have not seen yet na mas magaling sa kanya. That's why nakakalungkot na somebody as gifted as that, pabayaan niya ang health niya and get into drugs, para sa akin it's being ungrateful. But we don't know what transpired there, like emotional problems and all that. "What's surprising is that nag-umpisa siya sa church. Ganun talaga kapag you become too busy. Andyan na yung temptations of many things," she also said.
Source: mb.com.ph
----------------------
Juan Karlos to headline first major concert at MOA Arena
October 20 ------ Celebrating his 10th anniversary in the industry, young OPM hitmaker Juan Karlos is scheduled to headline his first major concert titled “Juan Karlos LIVE” on Nov. 29 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. “This is a dream come true. This proves that there is room for everyone in the music industry. I've always wanted it, and it's finally happening thanks to Nathan Studios, who believes in my worth and artistry,” says Juan Karlos. He adds, “The concert's production team is working hard to polish all the elements needed in order to provide the greatest possible concert experience for everyone. Of course, they'll hear and see me perform my hits as well as a few songs that have influenced me as an artist.”
Juan Karlos, best known for his hit songs “Demonyo” (2017), “Buwan,” (2018), and “Ere,” (2023), rose to fame at the age of 13 on his stint on the debut season of “The Voice PH Kids” in 2014. With the release of “Ere,” which garnered over 1.22 million streams in 24 hours and made history on Spotify’s Global Chart, Google listed it as one of the most searched songs of 2023. He continues to dominate the music industry, with 2.9 million monthly listeners on Spotify and a voice that pierces the souls. “Music has been a part of my life. I enjoy making music because it allows me to convey what I want and express how I feel. As artists, we should constantly allow our vulnerability to shine through, connecting and sharing it with others,” he shares.
In addition to his numerous musical accomplishments, which include several PMPC and Awit Award recognitions, he has starred on various ABS-CBN series, including "Hawak-Kamay" (2014), "Pangako Sa 'Yo" (2015-16), "A Love To Last" (2017), and "Senior High" as well as its spin-off, “High Street” (2023-24). The singer-songwriter also had an impressive performance on the Netflix original film "Lolo And The Kid.”
Source: mb.com.ph
---------------------------------------------------------------
SPORTS NEWS
PBA Legends still fan faves
October 20 ------ The game was half-serious, half-fun. Watsons chief operating officer Jeff Go made a cameo appearance with the Blue team and scored a layup. Twin towers Aquino and Feihl lorded it over both boards, grabbing rebounds without jumping. After hauling down an offensive board, Feihl gave back possession and assisted on a basket for the other side to the delight of the fans. The game was played over 10-minute quarters of running time except in the last five minutes of the fourth period.
Hizon set the stage at the start and was all business. He scored 19 points, spiked by five triples, in the first quarter which the Legends took, 29-14. The Legends stretched the lead to 27 at the half, 57-30 then to 29 at the end of the third frame, 84-55 before closing it out at 103-74. Hizon finished with 24 points. Santos and Gayoso fired 16 each. Aquino delivered 12 and Ferriols, 11. Magsanoc and Codinera tallied eight apiece. Ejercito had six, Patrimonio two and Feihl sacrificed his offense by pitching outlets without leaving the other side of the court.
The Legends gave the fans and their opponents a treat. They showed flashes of how they dominated the PBA back in the day. Patrimonio was easily the most popular Legend as fans crowded him for selfies even during the warm-ups. The Captain obliged and the other Legends left their autographs on the shirts of the Watsons All-Stars as a remembrance.
Leo Martinez led the Watsons All-Stars with 10 points. Amador Regidor and Razzel Raz hit eight each. In the Watsons basketball tournament, Red defeated Yellow, 47-38 while Blue beat Green, 41-33 in the semifinals. In the final, Blue torched Red, 65-40.
Over 600 employees participated in the revival of the Watsons Olympics after 12 years. The opening ceremonies featured a parade of muses with Gerome Kaye Cangco for the Blue team, Nicole Angelo Cloma for the Green team, Klarizza Anne Rose Santillan for the Red team and Alyssa Danica Reyes for the Yellow team. Adding excitement to the whole-day affair was the surprise personal appearance of two-time Olympian Eumir Marcial, PBA ironman LA Tenorio and volleyball star Vanie Gandlee. Watsons managing director Danilo Chiong declared the games open. The other Watsons executives on hand were Go and vice president/head of People and Organizational Development Rizza Cantre. The events were basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, chess, e-sports, pickleball, darts and palarong Pinoy (obstacle course, sack race, tug o’ war). The Red team won the overall championship.
Source: philstar.com
----------------------
UAAP Cheerdance Competition set for December 1
MANILA, October 20 ------ The 2024 UAAP Cheerdance Competition will take place on December 1 at the Mall of Asia Arena, the league announced. The order of performance is yet to be determined and will be decided by a drawing of lots in a press conference to be announced later.
The Far Eastern University Cheering Squad is aiming for a third title in four seasons, while the National University Pep Squad leads the charge of contenders aiming to dethrone them. "The UAAP CDC for this season promises bigger, better, and more spectacular performances from all eight schools as they prepare stronger, better, and together for one of the league's biggest events," said Rod Roque, the tournament director and University of the East's representative to the UAAP Board of Managing Directors.
NU is vying for a league-tying eighth CDC title, while the University of Santo Tomas Salinggawi Dance Troupe and the University of the Philippines Varsity Pep Squad will battle to break their tie at the top of the all-time standings. The Adamson University Pep Squad also poses a strong challenge, seeking to build on the momentum from their first title win in 2017. Meanwhile, the UE Pep Squad, De La Salle University Animo Squad, and Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles are preparing to showcase their new routines in front of what is expected to be a sold-out crowd at the bayside Pasay venue.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
----------------------
The Magician' reflects on career gives advice to young players
MANILA, October 20 ------ Throughout his six decades of playing pool, Efren "Bata" Reyes considered one of the greatest of all time never had a coach. He was only five years old when his father brought him to Manila from their hometown in Mexico, Pampanga. At the time, he started visiting a billiards hall, which sparked his interest in the sport. But it wasn't until three years later that he began playing when he was finally able to reach the pool table. Sixty-two years later, "The Magician" has won over a hundred professional titles, in the process becoming a legend in the sport and an inspiration for Filipinos. Now 70 years old, Reyes looked back at the tricks he pulled off in tournaments, which earned him his nickname. "Sa mga tournament, 'yung magic na yan, suwerte lang 'yun. Tiyamba lang 'yun," he said.
At a young age, Reyes became a master of multitasking by combining school with billiards into his daily life. Rather than having a coach, he honed his billiards skills by observing other players. "Hindi ako gumaling sa mga magagaling. Gumaling ako sa mga mahihina, sa mga hindi marunong. Napupulot ko 'yung mga tira nila na hindi nila kaya gawin," said Reyes. "Ginagaya ko."
The biggest prize money he received from playing was $500,000 in 2006, from a tournament in Reno, Nevada. However, he did not get to keep the whole pot. "Sa 500,000 babawasan mo ng tax— magiging 350 na lang. Kasama ko si Pareng Jango Bustamante hati kami pala. Ang gusto ng kalaban ko, may balato ng 50,000 kasi malaki daw 'yung first prize kaysa sa second prize eh," he said. "'Yung mga kasama pang mga manager, mga chaperone bibigyan pa ng ten percent," he added.
Reyes is still an active player, and he will serve as captain for Team Asia in the inaugural Reyes Cup that starts on Tuesday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila. Teaming up with Johann Chua and Taiwan's Ko Pin Yi, they will take on Team Europe composed of team captain Karl Boyes from England, and Mosconi Cup champions Jayson Shaw from the United Kingdom and Francisco Sanchez Ruiz from Spain. "Bata" says he never expected his career to reach the highs that it did, but he acknowledges that he can no longer pull off the "magic" tricks of his youth. "Hindi na kamukha ng dati 'yung game ko," he said, explaining that his movements are limited due to pain from his shoulders.
Still, he continues to earn through billiards, mostly through exhibition matches. As for his advice to aspiring pool players, Reyes is consistent in his message. "Pinakamaganda diyan, tapusin muna nila ang pag-aaral nila," said the pool legend. "Basta pagakatapos nila, dun lang sila magbilyar para mas masuportahan din nila ang sarili nila hanggang sa paglaki."
Reyes remains grateful for all fans who have shown him support through the decades. "Lahat kayong mga kababayan at lahat ng mga sumusuporta sa akin, nagpapasalamat ako sa kanila. Hanggang ngayon, nandito pa rin sila. Pinapanood pa nila ako, hinahanap pa nila ako, kahit nasaan man ako. At tiyaga lagi pagbukas ng TV, kaya din naa-announce ang pangalan ko ay dahil sa kanilang mga nanonood kaya nagpapasalamat ako sa kanila," said "The Magician."
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
eBalitang Marino Daily News (eBMDM) is part of the Balitang Marino News Service provided by Global Process Manager Inc. for Filipino seafarers onboard Japanese owned vessels. eBMDM is managed and administered by Global Process Manager Inc. located at 17F Times Plaza, United Nations Avenue corner Taft Avenue, Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines with Telephone: (632) 7759-7105 to 07 Local 114 – Editor
You received this eBMDM because you are subscribed to this service. The information is intended for the sole use of the Philippine-Japan Manning Consultative Council, Inc. (PJMCC) member agencies and their Filipino seafarers who are deployed on International Mariners Management Association of Japan (IMMAJ) member vessels. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify us immediately at editor@balitangmarino.com. Unauthorized use of personal information (i.e. email address, telephone number, etc.) is prohibited and is subject to criminal and civil liabilities under the Philippine Data Privacy Act of 2012 or Republic Act No. 10173.