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The National Economic and Development Authority has underscored the need to invest in lifelong learning, promoting job creation and increasing employability to maximize the country’s demographic dividend.

The Philippines and Brunei are taking steps to further enhance the security cooperation between the two nations to combat violent extremism.

The House committee on suffrage and electoral reforms has adopted a measure urging the Commission on Elections to use the automated election system for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections.

A majority of Filipinos support the establishment of more alliances and the strengthening of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to protect the country’s territory in the West Philippine Sea, a commissioned survey conducted by Pulse Asia showed.

Police can advise State Highway 1, near Hkerenui, is now open in both directions following an earlier incident this morning.

We thank motorists for their patience while the scene was cleared.

ENDS.

Anna Thompson/NZ Police
 

Source: NZ Police

July 12, 2023 11:22 PM

With all sides to the conflict not engaging, Jakarta’s ‘cocktail diplomacy’ isn’t going anywhere.

On July 13, 2022, many streets in Colombo - Sri Lanka's capital - erupted into celebration after weeks of peaceful protests forced then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country. Rajapaksa, long implicated in war crimes when he was defense secretary, had presided over an economic catastrophe amid allegations of widespread

The road was never paved in gold for the budding and young entrepreneur, Arvin Jay Pasaporte.

As he celebrated his birthday last May 4, 2023, Pasaporte has come far as he relishes in the success that he is currently enjoying.

At the young age of 31 years, Pasaporte has displayed and proved his entrepreneurial prowess as he recently launched his own entertainment company, Better Bound Entertainment.

However, the road towards success wasn’t paved with glitter and gold for Pasaporte as he had to endure countless obstacles before he was able to enjoy the fruits of his labor. His love for family and determination to get them out of the gutters of poverty fueled him to push through all the hardships that he endured.

“My family is my topmost priority in life, and that is the reason why I’m striving hard. Before, I wanted to fulfill my dreams, but as the years went on, I realized that it’s better to fulfill my family’s dream first,” he said.

Pasaporte’s life was riddled with endless trials and tribulations. After the death of both his stepfather and biological father, he was left with an astronomical responsibility of taking care of and looking after his big family.

“As the eldest, I had to take over the role as the provider. After the death of my two fathers, my stepfather and biological father, things started to get rocky from there,” he said.

Pasaporte shared that things got so difficult that his family was evicted from their rented homes twice because they were unable to pay on time.

“Right after my two dads passed away, I immediately took over the role and responsibility as the breadwinner. I had no choice but to take over the responsibility as the father of the family and there was a time that we were kicked out from our rented house because we didn’t have anything to pay,” Arvin recounted.

Things took a turn when Pasaporte decided to become an entrepreneur and invested the last of his thousands into a business that eventually turned into a huge success.

“It was a huge risk because I was already struggling to help my family, and I took the risk of investing the little thousands that I had left into something that could possibly fail but, thankfully, it didn’t,” Pasaporte shared.

Despite the success that he has achieved at a very young age, Pasaporte has always made sure to be a beacon of hope to those who are going through a rough patch in life and encourages them that all of their hardships are going to bear fruit in the end.

He said, “I want to hopefully inspire others to persevere and that whatever they are going through right now is temporary.”

Arvin Jay Pasaporte is a shining example of how one can show utmost hope and determination in the face of adversity. May his story serve as an inspiration to those who are battling wars of their own. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel and Arvin Jay’s story is a testament to that. (SPONSORED CONTENT)

Today, European parliamentarians from across the political spectrum denounced the European Union's shortsighted approach to Tunisia, calling for stronger action on the country's democratic backsliding.

"We will want to put democracy and human rights back at the center of any agreement with Tunisia," said Green lawmaker Mounir Satouri. Center-right Parliamentarian Michael Gahler regretted "a return to a Ben Ali si

July 12, 2023 10:15 PM

It was a meeting between old friends, says Balakrishnan

Photo of Amando Doronila from Pablo Tariman on Facebook.

AMANDO "DORO" Doronila, veteran journalist and renowned political columnist, died due to complications from pneumonia on Friday, July 7, 2023 in Australia. He was 95.

His passing was confirmed to the media by his son,

Ryuchell was an influencial LGBT figure in Japan, but was also criticised for their gender non-conformity.

In June, the Japanese Diet, the national legislature of Japan, passed its first-ever law on sexual orientation and gender identity. It seeks to "promote understanding" and avoid "unfair discrimination." The law states that "all citizens, irrespective of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, are to be respected as individuals with inherent and inviolable fundamental human rights." While a good start, the meas

Washington - Vietnam's move to ban the Warner Bros. film 'Barbie' from domestic distribution over a scene showing China's claimed territory in the South China Sea encapsulates an age-old territorial dispute between the two countries, experts said.

A nine-dash line encompassing about 90% of the South China Sea has appeared on Chinese maps since the 1950s. More recently, China has been aggressive about exercising i

July 12, 2023 9:00 PM

Singapore’s Transport Ministry said it had no updates since its last official statement in August 2022.

Australia’s foreign minister turned on the charm offensive in a dialogue session with Indonesian youth, assuring them the two countries could lean on each other in difficult times.

July 12, 2023 8:30 PM

The ban does not apply to existing Chinese students in Taiwan, who are allowed to complete their degrees.

July 12, 2023 8:20 PM

The families of the 12 tourists are seeking the help of the country’s diplomatic mission in India.

Steps Dance studio director Sofia Elizalde is a valued friend and supporter of Balletcenter Cebu. She fondly recalls the time of Balletcenter’s Nicolas Pacaña’s marvelous tricks and turns as an internationally recognized premiere dancer.

She recently collaborated with American Ballet Theater (ABT) studio company, the junior company of the famous American Ballet Theater that boasts talented dancers as young as 16, to tour around Asia. Sofia reached out to Balletcenter Cebu to invite their students to a master class conducted by ABT’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, school artistic director Stella Abrera-Radetsky and ABT studio company artistic director Sascha Radetsky.

What is so amazingly special is that Stella is the first Filipina promoted to principal dancer of ABT!

One Friday evening, with the entire Ayala Center Cebu viewing them, students of Balletcenter Cebu marched in wearing classic leotards and pink skirts. With their legs extended to the heavens, they turned and jumped effortlessly! Truly, dancers don’t need wings to fly!

Sofia then invited the dancers to watch the warm-up rehearsal of the ABT Studio Company in the morning, to prepare for their evening show. With dazzling eyes, Ayala Center gave the performers, ABT studio company and world-renowned Filipina chamber pianist Cecile Licad a deafening applause! The performance and the gala reception that followed at Seda Hotel hosted by Sofia had Balletcenter’s Gregory Aaron and Nicolas as special guests.

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To my knowledge, the Russian Vaganova Syllabus (ballet) has always remained in Russia, until now, when two professional dancers jetted into Cebu! Balletcenter warmly welcomed Olga Mikhailova and Oleg Ignatev, who have decided to spread the gift of dance and teach the Russian Vaganova Syllabus to countries in Asia.

Balletcenter has had the immense gift and rare opportunity to have three days of classes with Olga and Oleg. While the Center has taught a mix of different ballet syllabi, never was there a pure Vaganova class.

Students were influenced on how to “dance like a Russian.” After the giving of certificates to participants at dinner, students eagerly asked more questions, tips, etc. on how life was like in Russian academies.

Artistic director Gregory, proudly recounted artistic director Nicolas’ brilliant career during his prime. He famously danced with Russian superstars Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Barysh-Nikov and even had to substitute for the latter in “Don Quixote” with barely a four hour notice! Thus was born Nicolas’ nickname, “The Filipino Baryshnikov.” He was well known not only for technical prowess, but also for captivating the audience with his artistry.

This is really a great time for Cebuano dancers. Aaron continues: “In the 70 years that the school has been founded, it’s the first time American Ballet Theater and Russian Vaganova teachers come and give class.”

In closing, Balletcenter expresses its sincere gratitude to the ever-supportive business corporations and Balletcenter Cebu parents for their generous and unselfish contributions for the continuity of developing future Cebuano dancers.

In a world often defined by obstacles and limitations, the remarkable journey of a 10-year-old stands as a beacon of inspiration. At a young age, he discovered his passion for fashion and modeling, defying societal norms and overcoming adversities.

Xian Hinoguin, from San Antonio, Binabag, Bogo City, Cebu, is set to steal the spotlight at the upcoming Young Faces to Watch Cycle 2 (Manila Grand International Fashion Week) on July 27, 2023, at Carousel City, Manila. With dreams of becoming a model and the unwavering support of his parents, Lyn Mae and Raymond, Xian’s path to the fashion world began at the age of five, when he joined a local modeling competition and enrolled in RM Modeling agency. This decision marked a turning point in his life, as modeling became a transformative outlet for him.

While some fashion stars rely on designer labels and extravagant wardrobes, Xian’s style is a testament to his creativity and resourcefulness. With his mother as his dedicated stylist, Xian’s looks are curated from finds at thrift stores. His ability to transform pre-loved pieces into stylish ensembles showcases his unique fashion sensibility, proving that style knows no price tag.

Behind Xian’s unwavering passion for fashion lies the influence of his beloved grandmother. Her stories of elegance and grace have left an indelible mark on Xian’s aspirations. Through fashion, Xian pays homage to his grandmother’s timeless style while forging his own path in the industry.

“I’m determined to make up for my parents’ sacrifices and eagerly anticipate the day when I can take care of my cherished grandmother,” he said.

By embracing his unique journey, Xian inspires others to embrace their own individuality and chase their dreams relentlessly. His journey from a victim of bullying to a rising star in the fashion industry is a testament to the power of resilience and self-belief.

Xian’s journey wouldn’t have been possible without the support and guidance of RM Modelling agency. His career was significantly shaped by the agency, which provided him with the resources, instruction and guidance he needed to succeed as a young model.

As he prepares to grace the runway at the Runway Manila International Fashion Week, Xian’s triumph serves as an inspiration for individuals facing similar challenges and reminds us that embracing our dreams and nurturing our talents can lead us to extraordinary heights.