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Impersonator and satirist Willie Nepomuceno has passed away at the age of 75, his family announced yesterday in a Facebook post.

July 26, 2023 11:19 PM

Beijing isn’t facing public pressure to explain what happened to its shortest-serving foreign minister or why he was taken down.

July 26, 2023 10:10 PM

News of his return has thrown Thai politics further into a tizzy amid a political stalemate as parties negotiate to form the next government.

July 26, 2023 9:50 PM

Environmentalists are concerned that this haze season could be the worst in years.

New Delhi [India], July 26 (ANI): Banks in India have recovered non-performing assets worth Rs 10.16 lakh crore on an aggregate basis in the past nine years, Minister of State (MoS) Finance Bhagwat Karad informed Parliament. In the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament, the government was asked to respond about the effective measures to recover the bad loans and NPA amount from corporate companies. The minister responding

A VEHICULAR accident on the national highway in Barangay Guiboangan, Barili town, southwest Cebu, claimed the lives of two persons.

The incident occurred past 8 a.m. on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.

The two fatalities were identified as Valencia City, Bukidnon native Lilibeth Givera Deveras, 58, and local resident Irish Omagac, 14, who was struck by the vehicle as she was about to buy cooking oil from a store nearby.

According to Police Staff Sergeant Gilbert Encabo of Barili Police Station, the Toyota Hi-Ace van driven by Francis Cortez Pagatpat, 25, of Rijett Car Rental Services based in Barangay Sabang, Danao City, northern Cebu, had seven passengers on board, including three doctors, who were on their way to Seventh Day Adventist Hospital in Bacolod City, where they will be assigned.

Encabo said that Pagatpat was overtaking another vehicle when he lost control of the steering wheel and crashed into Omagac and a tree.

At least six passengers suffered injuries.

They are Dr. Antonio Edson Natividad Enriquez, 26, Dr. Princess Dawn Sombreo Espina, 27, Dr. Kathlyn Genevere Mangasi, 28, from Valencia City, her brother Kurt Josh Gevenere Mangasi, 28, and Kurtly Herera Mangasi, 30., and Nevelle Deveras, 66, from Valencia City.

They were brought to a hospital in Cebu City for treatment.(BBT, TPT)

RMER regional champion Albert Pagara makes his ring return next month against undefeated Russia Alexey Masur in an International Boxing Federation (IBF) Asia-Pacific lightweight bout on Aug. 30, 2023 in Turkestan, Kazakhstan.

“I think I can beat him,” Pagara told SunStar Cebu. “I’ve seen his fights. I’m now working with coach Jing Jing Tepora.”

Pagara hasn’t fought for over eight months and will be fighting his first international bout since losing to Cesar Juarez in 2016 in the United States.

The 29-year-old Pagara last fought on Nov. 5, 2022, wherein he stopped prospect Allan Villanueva in four rounds in Talisay City.

Pagara, a former ALA Boy, campaigned in the super bantamweight division most of his career. After a year away from the ring, Pagara returned as a super featherweight against Virgil Puton in 2020. He totally dominated Puton and beat him by unanimous decision in Mandaue City. He fought at light welterweight against Villanueva.

Pagara was once highly ranked in the world and is a former IBF Inter-Continental and World Boxing Organization Inter-Continental super bantamweight champion.

On the other hand, the 32-year-old Masur is a experienced former amateur that has fought close to a hundred fights in the amateur ranks.

Masur, who turned pro in 2018, transitioned well in the paid ranks, winning all eight of his fights. On April 26, Masur won the biggest fight of his career with a convincing unanimous-decision victory over former world title challenger Frank Manzanilla in Russia.

Pagara is 34-1 with 24 knockouts, while Mazur is 8-0 with five knockouts. (EKA)

THE Kurashiki Ablaze try to secure the last ticket to the finals of the Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference, as they battle the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Gametime is at 4 p.m. with PLDT coming off back-to-back victories over F2 Logistics and Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh of Vietnam for a 2-2 card.

“Like F2 Logistics, PLDT is a tall team. But we will do our best, particularly in receiving,” said Kurashiki coach Hideo Suzuki, after leading the team past the Cargo Movers, 25-20, 25-22, 25-20, last Tuesday for a 3-0 slate.

Creamline snatched the first finals seat with a hard-fought 25-23, 25-23, 25-17 win over Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh, which remained winless in three games.

Having witnessed how the High Speed Hitters play, Akane Hiraoka, who took the game’s top honors with a nine-point effort against F2 Logistics, had this to say about their upcoming foes: “PLDT has tall players, we have to focus on defense and receive and we shouldn’t be discouraged.”

PLDT coach Rald Ricafort and the High Speed Hitters, on the other hand, said they aren’t actually after the result but the chance to play an efficient team like Kurashiki.

“We’re happy to have built momentum (after beating Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh). We prepared against the Japanese and I think we’re in the right place in terms of performing at our peak,” said Ricafort.

“But it’s more of a challenge to play a Japanese team. We don’t have control over what happens in the finals, so we’ll focus on the opportunity to play a strong, quick team like Kurashiki and gain experience. We’ll give it our best shot and we’ll see where we’ll go from there,” he added. (JNP)

THE Farm Fresh-Letran handed the Sherilin Unisol-City of Naga their second straight loss with a 101-71 rout in the 2023 Manila Bankers Life-Pilipinas Super League 18-Under Battle of the Champions on Monday, July 24, 2023, at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center in Pampanga.

Letran welcomed back their star guard Andy Gemao in style as they followed up their 93-67 thrashing of the Max Ballers Davao with another dominant showing against the team from Cebu and keep them winless so far in this stage of the competition.

The top two teams by the end of the elimination round will move on to the best-of-three finals which begins on Friday, July 28, also at the same venue.

Gemao made his much-awaited return to Farm Fresh-Letran after being with University of the Philippines for its Serbia camp. The NCAA Season 98 Juniors Basketball Finals MVP showed no signs of rust, scoring 15 points.

Arwin Alforque and Juhniel Dela Rama chipped in 12 and 10 markers, respectively, as every player fielded by Allen Ricardo scored in the contest.

Sherilin-Unisol, who fell to 0-2 in the five-team meet, was paced by Jerome Arboiz with 13 points and seven rebounds. (JNP)

THE Puresteel Manufacturing Corp.-2011 won over Crossfit-Subtero-2006, 64-52, in Division B action in the 26th Sacred Heart Ateneo Alumni Basketball Athletic Association (Shaabaa) last Sunday, July 23, 2023, at the Magis Eagles Arena in Mandaue City.

Batch 2006 was actually ahead at halftime, 30-28, but Batch 2011 — last season’s runner-up in Division B — turned the tables around with a 24-9 blast in the third that put them in front for good.

Bernard Chioson exploded for 31 points along with seven rebounds, four assists and four steals. Big man Franz Pacheco had 11 points and 10 boards, while Bradley Bacaltos filled the stat sheet up with 10 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, three steals and a blocked shot.

After a rousing win against the defending champions Batch 2003, Batch 2006 could not sustain their momentum and dropped to 1-1. Luis Yu led the way with 15 points.

In other Division B games, ‘04 The Win-2004 defeated Insular Square-2005, 60-53. Franco Te had 12 points and eight rebounds, Christopher Consunji had 10, while Ervin Lopena did it all with eight points, nine boards, seven assists, three steals and a block.

Last, the Efficascent Boost-BRC-2010 clobbered the Gateway Motors-2007, 63-36. Jasper Diaz sizzled for 22 points and nine rebounds, while speedy guard Gabe Branzuela added 15 points, seven rebounds, six assists and six steals. (JNP)

The No 2 leader of the PAP also said the party had distinct policies regarding criminal wrongdoing – which is unacceptable – and other forms of misconduct.

Karen Peters, UNODC. 

A new narcotics law in Thailand has meant that people who use drugs are more able to access care for treatment of conditions like HIV, but the virus remains a 'critical health concern', according to the UN. 

The Thai authorities are working alongside UN agencies to not just improve the availabilit

Julie Bishop, Australia’s former foreign minister, said because her country is ‘well-regarded in foreign circles’, it was capable of being a moderating voice to tensions between the US and China.

“Success is not necessarily about connections, or cutting corners, or chamba -- the three Cs of bad business. Call it trite but believe me, success can be achieved through hard work, frugality, integrity, responsiveness to change, and most of all, boldness to dream.”

— John Gokongwei Jr., JG Summit founder

A Founder’s Adversity Quotient (FAQ) refers to the resilience, adaptability, and ability to thrive in the face of mounting challenges and uncertainties that business founders typically possess. It is a measure of their capacity to overcome setbacks, take calculated risks, and persevere in pursuit of their entrepreneurial vision.

Founders often start their businesses from scratch, facing enormous financial risks, limited resources, and market uncertainties. Armed with nothing but grit, they experience firsthand the struggles and setbacks that come with creating something from nothing. This process builds their AQ as they learn to cope with failure after failure, pivot their strategies, and find innovative solutions to navigate the complexities of keeping the business afloat. The emotional attachment founders develop to their businesses further contributes to their high AQ. Having founded their businesses, they are driven by more than just financial success. Their businesses become a reflection of their identity. To quote psychologist Harry Levinson, “An entrepreneur’s business is simultaneously his ‘baby’ and his ‘mistress.’ For the founder, the business is essentially an extension of himself, a medium for his personal gratification and achievement above all.” This deep emotional investment fuels their determination to overcome challenges and turn setbacks into opportunities for growth.

As founders build their businesses, they acquire diverse skill sets, ranging from leadership and creative problem-solving to risk management and adaptability. The entrepreneurial journey exposes them to a wide range of experiences, honing their decision-making abilities and fostering a growth mindset. That is why founders have a higher AQ compared to their offspring.

Founder starting from scratch

The phrase “starting from scratch” captures the essence of a founder’s journey in establishing a business from the ground up. They are entrepreneurs who have the vision, determination, and passion to turn an idea into a thriving venture. In the early stages, they embark on a challenging and unpredictable path, encountering numerous obstacles and uncertainties that test their resolve. At the inception of a business, founders face financial constraints and limited resources. They often invest their personal savings, seek funding from family and friends, or take out loans to fund the venture. These financial risks can be daunting, as the outcome is far from certain. Moreover, they also encounter skepticism and doubt from others, adding to the pressure of proving the concept’s viability.

As the business takes shape, founders navigate a highly competitive market, requiring constant adaptation to changing industry landscapes. They deal with early failures and setbacks, learning from mistakes and using them as stepping stones for improvement. This resilience in the face of adversity is a hallmark of successful founders. The journey is a transformative process that shapes their character and leadership style. It also fosters humility as they learn to seek advice, collaborate with others, and acknowledge that they cannot do it all alone. Overall, the FAQ builds tenacity as founders persistently pursue their vision, even in the face of skepticism or rejection.

Now that the founder is nearing the twilight of his life, does the next generation members have the same level of adversity quotient?

Find out on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023, at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria as fellow family business expert Dr. Josh Baron, a best-selling author and Harvard Business School senior lecturer, along with myself and next-generation leaders Alliance Global chief executive officer (CEO) Kevin Tan and JG Summit president and CEO Lance Gokongwei come together on the stage of “Family Business Continuity: Ensuring a Fail-Proof Succession Plan” to come face to face with business owners from diverse industries to dissect the dos and don’ts of ensuring business continuity while preserving the family’s legacy.

This Saturday event promises to be an engaging and enlightening session that will delve into the challenges and strategies for maintaining a successful business across generations. For additional information, please contact Marivi Estrada of ICON Executive Asia at 0977-835-5533.

LUCIO Co-led The Keepers Holdings Inc. (Keepers), the largest imported liquor distribution in the Philippines, delivered another solid performance in the first half of 2023 with a net income of P1.16 billion, growing 18 percent versus the previous year due to the strong sales volume performance from imported brandy, wines and specialty beverages.

Keepers has recorded consolidated revenue amounting to P6.5 billion, a 19 percent growth versus the previous year on the back of a 10 percent growth in volume of cases sold for the period.

This was driven principally by Alfonso, the leading imported brandy in the market, which has already surpassed its pre-pandemic levels, premiumizing market and on-premise channel rebound.

For the year 2022, Keepers declared annual cash dividends amounting to P0.054 per common share which represents a 125 percent increase versus 2021, equivalent to 50 percent dividend payout of Keepers 2021 net income.

The Keepers is the company behind global brands that include Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, Glenfiddich, Suntory, Jinro, Jose Cuervo, Jim Beam, Penfolds, Red Bull and many others. (PR)

KODEGO, a Filipino study-now-pay-later education technology company, has partnered with consumer finance app BillEase to provide local learners with easier access to IT education through interest-free and cardless installments.

Through BillEase, learners can choose from competitive IT courses being offered at KodeGo and pay only the minimum upfront, then split the rest in easy installments.

KodeGo offers bootcamps on different IT courses to equip beginners, upskillers and career shifters with critical and highly sought-after skills while offering company-matching support to jumpstart and progress their IT careers.

The partnership between KodeGo and BillEase aligns perfectly with both companies’ objectives of broadening access to education and addressing the skills gap in the Philippines by providing equal opportunities for all.

In 2020, the Philippine Institute for Developing Studies reported that data science analytics skills remain underdeveloped among the Philippine workforce. (PR)

BPI Direct BanKo Inc., A Savings Bank (BanKo), the microfinance arm of the Bank of the Philippine Islands, is rolling out 10 BanKo-on-the-Go (BOTG) roving vehicles that will bring banking services closer to communities where access to easy and affordable banking is limited.

This is part of BanKo’s mission to promote financial inclusion by providing access to easy, convenient and affordable products and services to self-employed micro-entrepreneurs, informal workers and salaried individuals.

BOTG recently kicked off its first run and visited public markets in Metro Manila and Rizal Province, specifically in Taytay, Malabon, Pasig, Antipolo, Commonwealth and Dagonoy.

To make banking transactions even more convenient to both vendors and marketgoers alike, BOTG will visit these six public markets every week, making it a “BanKo Day” for that community.

BOTG will soon be deployed in nine other locations across the country, visiting six different markets per location for a total of 60 areas by yearend. BOTG will also offer financial consultations and literacy sessions to address clients’ needs. (PR)

Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa introduces a succulent collection of culinary treasures in its “Find Your Shangri-La” campaign. These are not the routine everyday foodstuff but an exclusive breed of whimsical culinary creations as only Shang’s kitchen team can concoct!

Recently, the resort invited guests from around the world to embark on this innovative culinary campaign within Shangri-La’s exquisite properties. They have curated a themed menu consisting of a medley of enticing and exotic flavors for the discerning gourmand.

Standing among the esteemed properties participating in this event is Shangri-La Mactan-Cebu, where guests can indulge at renowned restaurants like the Lobby Lounge and Tea of Spring.

An absolute must-try is the “Daydreamer Cocktail,” a presentation at the Lobby Lounge, meticulously crafted by expert mixologists from Shangri-La Singapore. Its sour and sweet flavor, plus winning presentation, makes for a blissful reverie. It is available until the end of December this year.

The “Whimsical Menu” is part of the campaign featuring gastronomic delights, curated by esteemed executive Chinese chef LIiu Zhijun, whose exceptional thrust is blending local flavors with international techniques.

Be ready to satisfy your cravings with Bohol-farmed Prawns with Cebu Mangoes and Kataifi Noodles, Double-boiled Abalone and Dried Scallop served in a Coconut Shell. Here’s more: Red Lapu-Lapu-Grouper fillet with daubs of Gold Broth and Smoky A5 Wagyu Cube Roll in Merlot Black Pepper Sauce.

The “Whimsical Menu” promises an unforgettable dining experience and is available till Aug. 13 only at the Tea of Spring Restaurant.

***

Following a cozy coffee afternoon, real estate lady Lucy Franco-Garcia invited us to view her latest project: A streamlined, multi-storied office and residential tower along P. Almendras St., Mabolo, Cebu City.

We were much-impressed with these facts: The ideally located structure, named LMSK building, features a spacious underground parking area and its own deep well, so no water shortage problems.

Its comfortable apartment units and well-planned office spaces are designed with maximum use in mind. For starry nights, there’s the roof deck.

Toasts, Lucy, for still another achievement!

THE Toledo City Government expressed confidence that the disposal of hazardous waste from the healthcare facilities in the city will now be safe and orderly.

This after the Preliminary Disinfection and Storage Facility (PDSF) located in Putingbato Sanitary Landfill and Ecopark was turned over by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau in Central Visayas (DENR-EMB 7) to the city government.

The facility will be used to collect all hazardous and solid wastes from the city's healthcare facilities, including clinics and health centers.

Mayor Marjorie "Joie" Perales Perales vowed to take good care of the equipment so that it will last for a long time and contribute to making the city a safe place to live.

According to EMB 7 Regional Director Ma. Victoria Abrera they also delivered solid waste equipment, such as shredders and bio-composters that will assist filter the garbage.

The facility will be managed by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office.(ANV, TPT)

College is the last step of a student’s academic journey. Unless, of course, they are pursuing to take on further studies. Most, if not all, college students begin with the end goal in mind: Graduation. For a select few, they seek to be academic achievers, dreaming of the day that their institutions would confer upon them their well-deserved Latin honors.

However, reaching such goals requires a lot of effort. Is it all worth it?

University of the Philippines Cebu’s top graduate, Edsel Suhayon Codoy, shares his take on regrets in college. On July 21, 2023, UP Cebu had its annual graduation ceremony with Edsel as its second Summa Cum Laude since it became a constituent university in 2016.

In a conversation with Edsel, he shared his realizations throughout his college journey. Of all the things he shared, here’s what hits home:

“Have no regrets. By this, it does not mean leaving it all on the field to the point of losing count of valuable things. Simply, it’s about having no regrets and knowing that you did things out of bravery for your growth.”

Graduating Summa Cum Laude, it may seem like Edsel had given his all in college leaving him no room for “what-ifs.” In actuality, Edsel expresses the biggest regret he had: Chasing excellence all the time and losing what life has yet to offer him.

He regretted not doing anything aside from studying; not meeting new people outside class, not joining school organizations, and not having an immersive experience with the real world.

“I was chasing excellence all my life that I lost track of other things.”

For other college students who are merely content with surviving the academic demands of school, these words feel familiar. There’s always the fear of failing by trying things outside academics. It’s quite risky to gamble and try other things with the uncertainty of time. One will never know if risking trying new things will make him or break him.

However, Edsel emphasized the importance of taking calculated risks and having a growth mindset—something he wished he did in college. It may be a frightening experience, but doing so is important, so that at the end of the day young students will have no regrets. He added that even if people tried and fell short of their expectations, it’s fine. Being self-forgiving and not being too hard on ourselves is already enough.

In spite of his regrets, it cannot be denied that Edsel’s grit and perseverance led him to this achievement. His hard work led him to this exact moment. When asked about his message to students striving, he shared that “Hard work does not betray. It will pay off in due time.”

Edsel added that even though people fail to achieve something, at least there’s consolation from the hard work. Hard work will lead somewhere, even if it is not a destination people wanted in the first place. Perhaps, it is only through giving our all are we able to accept the results of our hard work with no regrets.

Edsel’s story is a testimony of how hard work led him to where he is standing today, in spite of “what-ifs” and “could-have-beens.”