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Philippines to launch e-visa system

Philippines Times - Wed, 2023-07-05 20:18

MANILA, July 5 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines will launch e-visa system "within the third quarter" to facilitate the entry of foreign tourists and businessmen into the country, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced on Wednesday.

The e-visa system will allow foreign nationals to apply online for Philippine visas, Foreign Undersecretary Jesus Domingo told a news conference, adding the new system will make the a

Categories: Philippines News

Camotes native up vs. Brazilian veteran in Centurion FC (CFV 13) Rex Orientem

Cebu Sun.Star - Wed, 2023-07-05 20:12
FORMER ONE Championship fighter Roel “Akiyama” Rosauro is back in the limelight as he sees action in a four-man MMA tournament in Centurion FC (CFV 13) Rex Orientem at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Parañaque City on July 21, 2023.

Rosauro, a native of Camotes, is facing Brazilian veteran Eduardo Souza in the semifinals.

“I’m very excited for this because this is the first to try in this type of fight,” Rosauro, who fights out of Survival MMA Fitness Hub, told SunStar Cebu. “I’ve seen his fights. He just recently won his fight in CFC last March.”

The 37-year-old Souza fought last March 15 in a CFC show in Dubai. He beat fellow Brazilian Alexandre Ribeiro by unanimous decision.

Rosauro last fought in pro MMA in 2021. He lost to American James Yang in the second round.

The 35-year-Rosauro fought four fights in ONE Championship from 2018 to 2021. He went 1-3, in which his only win was a unanimous decision over Yohan Mulia Legowo.

“In his last fight, he was striking. But he’s a Brazilian so I’m expecting that he’s very good in grappling. I will pick my strikes wisely,” said Rosauro, who’s known for his striking prowess.

Rosauro is 5-4 with three wins by stoppage, while Souza is 16-5-1 with six wins by knockout and also six by submission.

The other fight in the four-man tournament is between Pinoy Red Romero and Bolivian Leonardo Rodriguez.

Romero, the former URCC featherweight champion, is looking to end a losing streak. He last fought on April 21 and lost to John Brewin by a third-round Von Flue choke in Indonesia.

Rodriguez won his last five contests and is coming off a first-round knockout of Rodrigo Almeida last year in Brazil.

Romero is 12-11 with six wins by knockout and four by submission, while Rodriguez is 6-1 with six stoppages.

The winner of the two bouts will face each other on the same night for the tournament title. (EKA)
Categories: Philippines News

Nepal's Historic Achievement on Marriage Equality

Philippines Times - Wed, 2023-07-05 20:08

Hundreds of same-sex couples in Nepal will soon be able to legally register their marriages following a landmark Supreme Court ruling on June 28 which cleared the way for marriage equality in the country.

Although Nepal's civil code currently describes marriage as being between a man and a woman,

Categories: Philippines News

Espinoza: Love our country!

Cebu Sun.Star - Wed, 2023-07-05 20:02
From “It’s More fun in the Philippines” to “Love the Philippines.” The government’s slogan promoting the country’s tourism industry changes every new administration. The rebranding simply depends on taste and style of the current leadership.

But the latest “Love the Philippines” slogan has received flak from netizens and legislators when it was discovered that the advertising firm Doyle, Dane and Bernbach Philippines (DDB) that was contracted by the Department of Tourism (DOT) to come up with campaign videos used non-original materials in its audio-visual presentation (AVP).

Rep. Joey Salceda was disappointed after watching the promotional video wherein Mayon Volcano was not even included. “No love for Albay, no love for Bicol. Thank you na lang. Albay tourism will thrive without you, LOVE ALBAY!” Salceda wrote, obviously upset. (Manila Bulletin)

ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro believes the “Love the Philippines” slogan was copied from the “Love Cyprus” slogan launched by the country’s Deputy Ministry of Tourism in 2021. “It is unacceptable for the Marcos government to resort to plagiarizing campaign slogans from other countries,” he said. (The Freeman)

To soften the criticism and impact against the department after non-original materials were shown, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco ordered the termination of the contract of DDB after the latter publicly apologized and admitted that non-original materials were used in the AVP.

According to the fact-checking platform of Agence France Presse, parts of the almost two-minute video for the “Love the Philippines” campaign prepared by DDB showed places in Brazil, Indonesia, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates, and that these were grabbed from stock image and footage websites.

Because of this issue against the DOT, Cebu’s local officials signed a manifesto of support for Secretary Frasco.

Part of the manifesto states: “We, the Congressmen, City Mayors, Municipal Mayors, and Councilors under the banner of a united and indivisible One Cebu Island, declare our full and unwavering support to the Department of Tourism (DOT) led by our very own, a Cebuana, Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.” They suspect sabotage against Secretary Frasco.

With due respect, the manifesto of support is unnecessary since the DOT and its officials, particularly the secretary, are faultless since the DDB already and publicly admitted its mistakes. The DDB deserves rebuke more than the termination of its contract with DOT.

I could only speculate that DDB must have run out of better ideas on how to best promote our tourism industry. They are simply lazy that they merely grabbed stock images of other countries instead of showing the beautiful and breathtaking places and scenery in our country like the Mayon Volcano.

The slogan “Love the Philippines” is, however, designed and aimed at inviting foreign tourists to visit and love our country and not meant for us, the locals or domestic tourists. So, how can we ask foreign tourists to love our country if we cannot show them that we love our country first and foremost? Look at our surroundings, trash is everywhere.

The rebranding of the tourism slogan brings me to the dream of Mayor Mike Rama of a Singapore-like Cebu City. While it is not essentially wrong to copy the best practices of developed countries like Singapore, it would have been better if the Cebu City Government came up with its own program like “love our city, keep it clean” since cleanliness is one of the biggest issues the city is currently facing instead of listening to the mayor’s rhetoric.
Categories: Philippines News

Tell it to SunStar: Chinese Coast Guard pursuing PCG ships

Cebu Sun.Star - Wed, 2023-07-05 20:01
China is reckless and irresponsible. Her continued attempts to illegally occupy our territories only demonstrate her complete disrespect of international law.

This is why it is crucial that the Philippine government raise the West Philippine Sea issue to the United Nations General Assembly. I hope that the Senate can tackle my resolution regarding this as soon as session resumes, as we need the support of the wider international community to stop China’s unbridled aggression.

If the Chinese authoritarian regime truly wants to be the regional leader, she should act responsibly by de-escalating tensions in the region, instead of fanning the flames by engaging in these rash actions outside her territorial sea.

While pursuing political and diplomatic means to resolve this dispute, our defense establishment should simultaneously come up with alternate means to resupply our troops in Ayungin Shoal in order to secure them from harassment and interdiction by the Chinese.

Government should expend all possible resources to defend our sovereignty and keep our people safe.
Categories: Philippines News

Tell it to SunStar: A tourism campaign gone wrong?

Cebu Sun.Star - Wed, 2023-07-05 20:00
What makes a tourism campaign go wrong?

A sane person with an objective viewpoint would say that the campaign is deemed unsuccessful only if it does not achieve the objective for which it was launched.

Under that framework, it is too early to judge whether the “Love the Philippines” campaign is successful or not. However, Every Juan (with apologies to Cebu Pacific) prodded on by a mischievous media, became overnight branding experts and jumped on the campaign’s use of stock footage and declared it as a total fiasco. To put things in their proper context, consider the following points.

• The “Love the Philippines” campaign is just a marketing tool designed to entice more tourists to visit the country. Ultimate expected outcomes include increased tourist arrivals and tourist receipts. Critics who harp on the harm of including stock footage depicting scenes from other countries can be likened to those raising an alarm on the icing melting on a cake because of a wrong ingredient, without focusing on how the actual cake is just delectable. Any defect in the icing can always be easily remedied just as the “offending” stock footage can be replaced. Have the few seconds showing the stock footage rendered the campaign useless and beyond repair? Nobody really knows for sure, not even the horde of current critics. Let the DOT (Department of Tourism) come out with a new and improved version and survey the intended audience to solicit their comments. To continue with the cake analogy, let the campaign run for an extended period and see if it has helped in improving tourism figures. The proof of the cake is in the eating. In the meantime, treating the campaign as stillborn is counterproductive to say the least.

•Ever since I can remember, the DOT operated as if their main reason for being is tourism marketing and promotion. (Maybe it is). Coming out with the catchiest slogan seemed to occupy much of the waking time of new DOT administrations. Indeed, while it is important to project the right brand and image for the Philippines to the world, it is equally important, if not vital, to provide adequate tourism infrastructure to give comfort and convenience to tourists. Studies by experts have long identified our country’s shortcomings in this space: among others, lack of modern access (either by land or sea) to our tourist destinations, absence of reliable and inexpensive internet connections, limited availability of health facilities outside the urban areas, dearth of tourist information sources including simple directional signage. We have not really addressed the infrastructure issue in a purposeful and consistent manner and as a result, sadly lag behind our Asean neighbors in this aspect. Perhaps, the “Love the Philippines” decriers can redirect their vociferous protestations to the tourism infrastructure concern and be more useful, instead of fixating on misplaced footage.
Categories: Philippines News

HK court convicts man over use of 2019 protest song Glory to Hong Kong

Straits Times Asian News - Wed, 2023-07-05 19:45
July 05, 2023 7:45 PM

Cheng Wing-chun was accused of using the song in an edited video featuring an Olympian from the city.

Categories: Asian News

Vendor shot in Cebu City barangay, suspect identified

Cebu Sun.Star - Wed, 2023-07-05 19:40
A 33-YEAR-OLD vendor was shot in Sitio Lower Yati, Barangay Quiot, Cebu City, and the suspect has already been identified.

The victim, Jeferson Fernandez Lausa, who hails from Sitio Liberty of the said barangay, identified alias Negro as the culprit.

According to Police Major Angelito Valleser, the chief of Labangon Police Station, that at 12:55 p.m. on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, while the victim was seated by the side of the road, the suspect suddenly showed up and opened fire.

According to reports, the victim and Alias Negro got into a fight before the shooting, which the police believed to be the reason.

A manhunt operation against the suspect is now ongoing. (AYB, TPT)
Categories: Philippines News

Utzurrum: ‘Mother and child’ on an art journey

Cebu Sun.Star - Wed, 2023-07-05 19:37
Very recently, the world celebrated Mother’s Day, a day set aside to honor the best and most rewarding profession, in my humble opinion.

Locally, Qube Gallery presented 40 noted and budding artists with the theme “Mother and Child.” Qube Gallery co-director and show curator Pia Marie Mercado—not yet a mother herself—has this to say:

“My interpretation of the theme is rooted in my role as mentor to these artists; watching them grow has been incredibly fulfilling. They have brought their own experiences, emotions and creative impulses to bear on the theme, resulting in a fascinating and thought-provoking artwork collection.”

Indeed, a generous gathering of the art-conscious in the community proved this belief, and enthusiastically immersed themselves in the varied collection on opening day.

The contemporary artists did not disappoint. The diverse and non-traditional canvases were not the usual Mother-and-Child interpretations, but rather a wider range of art, from abstract, figurative, pop, surrealism, impressionism, sculpture, to even photography!

Viewers of this exclusive exhibition will also discover that this is an avenue for these artists to showcase their individual styles while beautifully and expressively capturing the theme.

In conclusion, Pia expressed:

”I cannot emphasize how proud I am to have established rapport with these artists for this show. As we all know, the theme of “Mother and Child” is universally relatable, so it did not take long for them to commit to be part of it. Working with 40 of them as the show’s curator, I have learned that while we strive to run a smooth show, by sticking to deadlines and managing logistics, we are actually dealing with 40 distinct souls, personalities and stories.”

“Artists are not, after all, mere art producing-factories, but souls who need understanding and compassion. The role of a curator goes beyond conception, selection and the hanging of works, realizing that they too, have their own current projects. Some discussions centered on their struggles, both as an artist, and as a human being. There is always a human factor involved.”

“This exhibition, like most, is not meant to be a one-way street. There are mutual learnings—artists from the audience, and vice-versa. Curator from the artists, and again, vice-versa. The cycle is endless, and if you agree, even the slightest, then the show has achieved its purpose.

“This is not about me nor the artists, but all of us. We contribute to the art world in our own capacities. Thank you for being with us on this incredible journey.”

Thank you too, Pia, for this incredible job!

Categories: Philippines News

LIST: 20 measures prioritized for passage by December 2023

Philippines Star - Wed, 2023-07-05 19:35
Some of the measures that the president and leaders of Congress agreed to pass by December 2023 are the Mandatory ROTC bill, Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers bill and a bill amending the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act.
Categories: Philippines News

Russian economy recovering faster than we expected - Putin

Philippines Times - Wed, 2023-07-05 19:30

GDP is forecast to grow by more than 2% this year  

The state of the Russian economy is better than previously expected and will allow the country to meet all its goals, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.

"Our results, at least thus far, let's say cautiously, are better than expected,

Categories: Philippines News

Russian economy recovering - Putin

Philippines Times - Wed, 2023-07-05 19:30

GDP is forecast to grow by more than 2% this year  

The state of the Russian economy is better than previously expected and will allow the country to meet all its goals, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.

"Our results, at least thus far, let's say cautiously, are better than expected,

Categories: Philippines News

South Korea police investigating 193 cases of ‘ghost children’

Straits Times Asian News - Wed, 2023-07-05 19:30
July 05, 2023 7:30 PM

Out of these babies whose births were never registered with the local authorities, 12 of them were confirmed dead.

Categories: Asian News

ED arrests ex-Chairman of Seva Vikas Co-op Bank in Rs 429 crore fraud case

Philippines Times - Wed, 2023-07-05 19:18
New Delhi [India], July 5 (ANI): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Amar Sadhuram Mulchandani, former Chairman of Seva Vikas Co-operative Bank on July 1 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 in Seva Vikas Co-operative Bank fraud case, the agency said on Wednesday. According to the agency, a Mumbai court has granted his custody for six days -- till Friday or July 7. The arrest is made in connecti
Categories: Philippines News

Jharkhand: Ten sent to jail in India for lynching Muslim man

BBC Asia News - Wed, 2023-07-05 19:06
Tabrez Ansari died from injuries inflicted by the men who forced him to say chants praising Hindu gods.
Categories: Asian News

Ransomware attack from Russia hits Japan’s biggest port, delaying cargo

Straits Times Asian News - Wed, 2023-07-05 19:05
July 05, 2023 7:05 PM

The Nagoya Port Authority said Russia-based ransomware group Lockbit 3.0 was responsible for the hack.

Categories: Asian News

14 years of sharing the joys of authentic Spanish cuisine

Cebu Sun.Star - Wed, 2023-07-05 18:51
Amid the popular craze surrounding Japanese delicacies, Korean Samgyupsal and New York City’s buffalo chicken wings in Cebu City, what’s been flying under the radar in the town’s food scene is Spanish cuisine.

In the same way at Ipar’s Restaurante Y Bar de Tapas, this authentic Spanish restaurant offers a straightforward experience that lets the flavors do the talking. Since its establishment in 2009, Ipar’s restaurant has elevated diners with its authentic and mouth watering dishes, leaving a lasting impression that speaks volumes.

“To those who traveled to Spain and dined in here, we are proud to say that this restaurant is very comparable and a lot of our patrons here are Spanish tourists and been around to Cebu, chosen few Spanish restaurants, and when they come here to Ipar’s, they could say that Ipar’s is really authentic as though they’re eating in a Spanish restaurant around Spain,” said Chef Ipar.

Chef Ipar Miranda’s worldly wisdom and training under acclaimed chefs has birthed menus steeped in the essence of Spanish gastronomy. With genuine reverence for traditions, quality ingredients, and treasured recipes, Miranda joyfully shares the taste of Spain to Cebuanos.

“When I opened the restaurant in 2009, my main goal in mind was to bring what I learned from Spain to Cebu,” said Chef Ipar.

Numerous Spanish restaurants emerged before Ipar’s restaurant, but many adapted their flavors to cater to the Cebuano palate. However, in the midst of this culinary evolution, Ipar’s restaurant stood firm, upholding its identity as an authentic Spanish restaurant.

“Basically what we serve here is what we find in any ordinary bars or restaurants all over Spain,” said Chef Ipar.

At Ipar’s restaurant, one can skip the trip to Spain and dive into its extensive menu filled with irresistible flavors. From mouthwatering tapas like Gambas al Ajillo, Spanish Chorizo, Tortilla de Patata, to lip-smacking paellas including Paella Negra and Paella de Gambas, Ipar’s got its customers covered with nothing short of authentic Spanish goodness.

Chef Ipar’s commitment to Spanish authenticity comes naturally, as he hails from a Spanish background. Growing up immersed in the flavors of Spanish cooking, his passion led him to pursue culinary studies, specializing in Spanish cuisine.

With his family’s history of running a famous Spanish restaurant in Cebu City, Chef Ipar’s dreams of becoming a Spanish cuisine specialist were not far-fetched at all. Today, his expertise and heritage shine through in every dish at Ipar’s restaurant, delivering a taste of Spain for 14 years.

“I moved to Spain to learn proper Spanish cuisine because back in the day my folks used to run a Spanish restaurant in Mango Avenue called (10;24) which not many people or younger generation probably heard of but maybe their folks or grandparents would remember it because it was also quite known,” said Chef Ipar.

“I moved to Spain in 2001. I was there for a couple of years and I went to school in Cuenca and learned the basics there of Spanish cuisine and then after my two years there, I moved to the northern part in Zarautz.”

When the pandemic struck, Chef Ipar found solace in the restaurant’s beloved chorizos, which became its saving grace. These flavorful Chorizos, cherished by many, became a lifeline as they supplied them to numerous restaurants across Cebu. The recipe for its chorizo is a cherished homegrown gem, passed down from Chef Ipar’s Spanish household, where he enjoyed it growing up.

Chef Ipar’s restaurant adheres to traditional cooking methods and uses essential Spanish ingredients like Spanish oil, saffron and Spanish paprika. These components are the cornerstone of their commitment to providing an unmistakably Spanish dining experience.

For the younger crowd seeking a taste of Spanish flair, Ipar’s restaurant offers a dedicated bar that caters to their cravings. One popular choice is the Calimocho, a refreshing drink made with equal parts Coca-Cola and red wine. Whether one is looking to socialize or enjoy a good meal, this beverage adds an extra touch of enjoyment to their Spanish dining experience.

As one steps into Ipar’s restaurant, one is instantly embraced by the spirit of España. The patterned ceiling and cool portraits of bullfighting transport diners to the heart of Spanish culture. Every inch of the place exudes Spanish flair, from the flamenco designs to the charming old archives that add an intimate and casual touch to the dining experience.

At Ipar’s, it’s a journey into the soul of Spain, where every moment feels like a delightful escape. Ipar’s offerings are available on popular food platforms like FoodPanda, Grab, and LaLaMove. While walk-ins are welcome, making a reservation is a bonus for those seeking a seamless dining experience.

Operating from Tuesday to Sunday, Ipar’s Restaurante Y Bar de Tapas serves lunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner from 6 to 10 p.m.
Categories: Philippines News

Vietnam exports 4.2 mln tons of rice in H1

Philippines Times - Wed, 2023-07-05 18:44

HANOI, July 5 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam earned 2.3 billion U.S. dollars from exporting 4.2 million tons of rice in the first half of this year, local media reported on Wednesday, citing the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Its largest rice importers include the Philippines and China, according to the ministry.

Vietnam will export more rice to the Philippines, which could have its domestic food pro

Categories: Philippines News

Former drug surrenderer found dead in Argao town

Cebu Sun.Star - Wed, 2023-07-05 18:23
A FORMER drug surrenderer who was thought to have been "salvaged" and dumped in a desolate area was found dead at 6:10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, in Barangay Jomgao, Argao town, southern Cebu.

The victim, Jairo Camarillo, 22, from Barangay Lamacan, sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the head.

The victim was found by one Jemuel Duran, who was tending his cow.

Police Major Ivy Bartolome, chief of the Argao Police Station, told SunStar Cebu that they are looking into all possible angles of the murder, illegal substances.

They will also check if the victim has returned to using illegal drugs or engaged in the drug sales.

Bartolome said the relatives of the victim also suspected that he had resorted to his old vice.

Police investigation is ongoing to find out the real motive of the crime.

"Gi-salvage gyud ni siya, gidala sa mga responsabli diri kay awaaw kaayo," said Bartolome.

(He was really salvaged and brought by those responsible here because it is very desolate).

Police recovered from the crime scene five empty shells of 9mm and caliber .45.

The victim reportedly asked permission from his parents to go out with his friends on Tuesday evening but did not return since then.(GPL, TPT)

Categories: Philippines News

SC affirms Arroyo-era exploration deal with China, Vietnam unconstitutional

Philippines Star - Wed, 2023-07-05 18:21
The SC en banc denied with finality due to lack of merit the motion of reconsideration of its January 10, 2023 decision that declared unconstitutional and void the tripartite agreement for a joint marine seismic undertaking (JMSU) by and among the Philippine National Oil Company, China National Offshore Oil Corporation, and Vietnam Oil and Gas Corporation.
Categories: Philippines News

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