Philippines News

With the Philippines having slow and the second most costly Internet in Southeast Asia, as well as low Internet penetration, three major business groups have backed a multi-stakeholder petition for the Senate to fast-track approval of the Open Access bill, and for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to include it as a priority legislation in his next State of the Nation Address.

The Employers Confederation of the Philippines (Ecop), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), and Philippine Exporters Confederation (Philexport) were among the 10 organizations to sign a joint statement declaring “full support for the immediate enactment of the proposed Open Access in Internet Services Act” or OAIS Act which, they say, will enable Internet network operators to deploy broadband infrastructure faster and at less cost, hastening the digital inclusion of more Filipinos.

The joint statement was signed on July 5, 2023 in Makati City by leaders from 10 groups coming from the industry and financial sectors and civil society.

Sen. Raffy Tulfo, author of Senate Bill 1845, said the Philippines has “the second most expensive (Internet) among Asean members despite being slow and less accessible, especially in the countryside.”

Tulfo said access to the Internets enables users to connect with friends and family, have access to information and conduct e-commerce.

Key reforms

The OAIS bill contains two key reforms that will address the legal obstacles and outdated laws that put up high barriers to entry and perpetuate a costly and inefficient way of installing broadband infrastructure.

One of these reforms seeks to lower the barriers and cost to market entry of Internet network operators by simplifying the registration and qualification process for providers.

The other aims to make broadband network deployment faster and more efficient by promoting infrastructure sharing, and streamlining the approval process for permits to install broadband infrastructure.

In Cebu, Charles Kenneth Co, president of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: “If open access is about having a common or universal internet line shared by various companies, this can have advantages in lessening their capital outlay, especially in far-flung areas where there may not be enough user base to justify more than one company investing in the cabling. Hopefully this bill will enable wider Internet access for all Filipinos.”

Petition

The petitioners stated that the Open Access bill “will address the legal obstacles and binding constraints which have long stifled the growth of the Philippines’ Internet industry” in a world increasingly reliant on connectivity to function and advance.

“Poor and unreliable access and unaffordable Internet services persist,” according to the statement. It warns that not addressing the major challenges in Internet access, quality and affordability will lead to digital exclusion, with steep consequences in terms of attempts to improve education, finance, e-governance, e-commerce and health in the country.

Citing the National ICT (Information and Communications Technology) Household Survey in 2019, the statement said only 47 percent of Filipinos were found using the Internet and only 18 percent of households were subscribed to the Internet when the Covid-19 pandemic struck.

At the height of mobility restrictions, an education department survey revealed that 52 percent of public schools and 83 percent of their enrollees were unable to go online for classes.

The groups also voiced alarm about the growing broadband infrastructure gap, with remote rural areas the most disadvantaged.

Mobile Internet poor

In the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), World Data Lab found that this year, the Philippines has the second highest number of “mobile Internet poor” who find mobile data unaffordable, while data from the Alliance for Affordable Internet had the Philippines recording the second lowest affordability score in the region in 2021.

Moreover, Philippine mobile broadband was about 40 percent slower than the median speed of its Asean peers, according to Ookla data for March 2023, although Philippine fixed or wired broadband was doing slightly better.

“Moving forward, the digital divide threatens to undermine our economic growth, and must be addressed for the government’s push for e-governance to truly succeed,” the statement of support initiated by Better Internet PH declared.

Digital divide

Better Internet PH lead advocate Mary Grace Mirandilla-Santos in her presentation called on the Senate’s science and technology committee to deliberate on and approve the Open Access bills and the National Economic and Development Authority to include Open Access as a priority legislation of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council.

Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Jr., who signed the joint statement on behalf of Ecop, PCCI and Philexport, observed in his message how the widening digital divide “deprives Filipinos of equal opportunities.”

He added: “Every Filipino must be given the opportunity to participate in the digital environment.”

Joining the business groups and Better Internet PH in signing the manifesto were the Internet Society Philippines Chapter, Fintech Alliance.PH, Philippine Cable Television Association Inc., National ICT Confederation of the Philippines, Foundation for Media Alternatives, and Democracy.Net.PH.

These groups stressed that open access to the Internet is a fundamental right of all Filipinos regardless of where they live.

The Senate S&T Committee started holding public hearings on digital connectivity and cybersecurity bills, including Open Access, last month. (PHILEXPORT, CTL, KOC)

Undefeated prospect Dave Apolinario faces a stiff test in Mexican veteran Brian Mosinos on Aug. 30, 2023 at the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan.

After an easy second-round stoppage of Indonesian Frengky Rohi last Feb. 11, the 24-year-old Apolinario will be tested against a tough and very talented opponent in Mosinos in his first fight in Japan.

“It will be a good test for Dave. Mosinos is a good and tough boxer and trains in the Nacho Beristain Gym. But I think Dave will put on a show and show everyone that he’s ready for a world title,” Sanman Promotions chief executive officer JC Manangquil told SunStar Cebu.

In preparation for this fight, Apolinario has been sparring with some elite sparring partners, the likes of former world title challengers Vince Paras and Jayson Mama.

After fighting mostly in the Philippines his whole career, Apolinario finally got a big break last year after earning a fight in South Africa against South African star Gideon Buthelezi for the vacant International Boxing Organization.

Apolinario made quick work of Buthelezi and stopped him in a single round to become a world champion. However, the title that he won was a world title from a minor organization.

Apolinario wants to become a world champion in one of the four major boxing sanctioning bodies -- World Boxing Council (WBC), World Boxing Organization (WBO), World Boxing Association (WBA) and International Boxing Federation (IBF).

Apolinario already has a target in sight, Artem Dalakian, who currently holds the WBA belt.

“We want to go for the WBA flyweight title,” said Manangquil.

Apolinario is highly rated in all four world sanctioning bodies. He’s ranked No. 2 by the WBA, No. 5 by the IBF, No. 9 by the WBO and No. 14 by the WBC.

Apolinario shouldn’t take Mosinos for granted because he’s a legitimate adversary.

The 26-year-old Mosinos fought the likes of former world champions Elwin Soto and Mario Rodriguez. He lost to Soto by a controversial split decision last May 13 in Mexico, while he defeated Rodriguez in 2019 by unanimous decision in a WBC Continental Americas flyweight title fight also in Mexico.

Apolinario is 18-0 with 13 knockouts, while Mosinos is 23-5 with six knockouts. (EKA)

Dave Sabandon was in the right place at the right time as he picked up an offensive rebound and scored the game-winning layup to lift the Newfold Wolves past the Amazon Aces, 54-52, in the Hoop Nation Inter-BPO basketball tournament last Sunday, July 2, 2023, at the City Sports Club-Cebu.

Tied at 52-all after the Aces’ Mac Galay coolly sank two free throws, the Wolves quickly inbounded the ball to Feeljo Bongo who launched a triple that missed. Fortunately, Sabandon hustled back, nabbed the rebound, faked out two defenders before rising up and making a layup before the final buzzer sounded to give Newfold the thrilling victory.

Ralph “The Lion King” Belarmino led the way for the Wolves with 22 points and 11 rebounds, as the team improved to 4-1.

Mac Galay had 20 points, five boards and four assists for Amazon, which dropped to 2-2.

In other games, Tech Mahindra routed Cognizant, 62-49, with Steve Cabanday putting up 28 points, three rebounds and two assists.

TTEC clobbered the Bankers, 43-25, as Jasper Diaz collected 10 points and five boards.

Synchrony edged Optum, 54-53, with Archel Arena tallying 19 markers and five boards.

OP360 routed Fujitsu, 78-54, thanks to Jed Girasol’s 14 points and five assists.

Dyninno also slipped past TDCX, 49-48, as John Felicilda tallied 13 points, eight rebounds and five assists. (JNP)

The Cebu Architects Basketball Club 5th Corporate Cup 2023 tips off this Sunday, July 9, 2023, with eight teams vying for hard court supremacy at the Benedicto College gym in Cebu City.

Leading the cast of contenders is the defending champions AEG Building Prints, which will be bannered by their formidable triumvirate of do-it-all forward Bong Gabison, speedy guard Zach Go and the high-leaping Dexsel Caadan.

However, they will have a huge target on their backs with last season’s runners-up, Boysen along with the likes of Cebu Home Builders, Buildrite, Landlite, Modern Windows, Kirby Building Systems and Diamondbuilt Development Corp. all looking to usurp the champions.

The teams will play a single round-robin where the top four squads will get a twice-to-beat advantage in the elimination round. The crossover semifinals will go next with the winners there advancing to the one-game championship round. (JNP)

What is a MoonSwatch, one might ask? It’s just the biggest thing in the world of watches, bridging the gap between luxury collectors and casual wrist wearers.

Launch

On March 26, 2022, Swiss luxury watch manufacturer Omega and contemporary Swiss-made watchmaker Swatch released a collaboration simply known as the MoonSwatch. The name is a play on the latter’s name and the nickname of the former’s most popular model: The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch.

History

During the Apollo 11 mission, astronaut Buzz Aldrin wore the Speedmaster on the moon making it the first-ever timepiece on the lunar surface. With prices for the Omega Speedmaster starting around $7,000 to sky-high prices for its precious metal models on retail, naturally, a $260 bioceramic version of the iconic chronograph would dominate conversations and, soon enough, the market.

In less than a year since its launch, notably in January 2023, over one million MoonSwatches were sold.

Reception

While a lot of people definitely enjoyed the journey of getting a MoonSwatch on their wrists, the release was also met with a ton of criticism generally due to three aspects: price, quality and availability. Would one consider a $260 purchase of a plastic-feeling, super fragile, almost disposable watch as a wise decision? Maybe.

And for people who wanted to overlook this, they were still subjected to long queues outside (select) Swatch stores as the MoonSwatches were not made available for online purchase, despite these watches being not limited-edition releases.

Celebrities hopped on the hype train, too. Musician and avid watch collector Ed Sheeran and no less than James Bond himself, Daniel Craig, were among the many seen wearing the bioceramic chronograph. The supply struggled as the demand rose, fueling both people’s disappointment yet strangely, also desire.

Models

While the standard Speedmaster generally comes with a black dial and stainless steel case, the regular MoonSwatches present 11 models designed after planetary bodies. The model names are as follows: Mission to the Sun, Mission to Mercury, Mission to Venus, Mission on Earth, Mission to the Moon, Mission to Mars, Mission to Saturn, Mission to Jupiter, Mission to Uranus, Mission to Neptune and Mission to Pluto.

Ranking

Here is a light-hearted ranking of the models based on their looks and overall vibe:

Mission to the Sun

Pulling off the bright yellow gold color is not the easiest thing to do.

Mission to Venus

Pretty powder pink but the oval subdials may be an issue for some.

Mission to Mars

Deep red and white; a pair of rocket hands—may not be for everyone.

Mission to Saturn

The planet on the dial might throw off those who prefer a clean look.

Mission on Earth

Green, blue, with some white and brown—a busy combo.

Mission to Mercury

Maybe a little too serious for what’s supposed to be a fun piece.

Mission to Jupiter

A beautiful beige case, plus a cool orange seconds hand.

Mission to Uranus

A powdery blue that’s easy on the eyes, both fun and elegant.

Mission to Pluto

The burgundy and grey tones make for a fun yet subdued wristwatch.

Mission to the Moon

Looks like the real deal. Don’t put it on a steel bracelet though.

Mission to Neptune

Deep blue. Clean whites. Black strap. Sporty but means business.

Do you agree with this ranking? Which MoonSwatch do you have? Are you planning to get one for yourself or for a gift? Regardless of which, wearing and enjoying a watch is a very personal experience. Wear them in good health!

While it is true that you eat with your eyes first, a carnival on a plate is not necessarily an indicator of a satisfying meal.

In this modern day and age of dining, there is that extra incentive for restaurateurs to make one’s dish stand out visually. A photo taken and shared by customers on social media equals free advertising. It’s the new-generation word-of-mouth but double or triple the impact.

However, one can take comfort that some restaurants choose to remain more subdued, continuing to serve quality dishes that are nothing short of excellent.

Not careless. Classy. Confident.

Ipar’s Restaurante Y Bar De Tapas—or commonly referred to simply as Ipar’s—prides itself on serving authentic Spanish cuisine since 2009. The restaurant is located on F. Ramos St., Cebu City, a location that has seen its fair share of wonderful, culinary startups.

The man-in-charge is chef Jose Ramon Ernesto Ouano Miranda, who has always stuck to his guns in terms of never compromising the Spanish food he’s learned to prepare from his studies and stints in Spain.

The name is a mouthful, he joked, so he simply goes by “Ipar.”

“There were many Spanish restaurants before but some of them tweaked their recipes to fit the Cebuano taste,” Chef Ipar shared. “What we do here is the basic way of cooking—the traditional way. No soy sauce. No liquid seasoning,” said the chef. “While I myself love that marination or type of cooking, we just stuck with the traditional Spanish cuisine.”

Chef Ipar shared how he’s comfortable where his restaurant’s recipes stand after 14 years by sticking with the mainstays, naming a handful of its must-try classics: the paella, gambas, callos and its homemade chorizo.

“When you try our chorizo and you’ve travelled to Spain, it’s basically the same taste. Aside from that, we produce the chorizo in small batches to really ensure the quality,” said Chef Ipar.

I enjoyed every bit of what was served, down with a glass or two of Calimocho—a cocktail consisting of equal parts red wine and cola-based soft drink. It was 1 p.m. Ah, the exclamation point to this experience would be an authentic siesta away from the eyes of HR.

Ipar’s is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch and 6 to 10 p.m. for dinner, Tuesday to Sunday.

With the Department of Tourism (DOT) rolling out a new tourism campaign — also with a brand-new slogan -- we all should come together in support of the country and of our tourist destinations, which could be considered at par with other world-class attractions.

The DOT was criticized for the misleading inclusion of stock footage in the “Love the Philippines” campaign video, but let us also allow the Department to correct this misstep, reflect on what happened, and improve its campaign going forward.

The concerned ad agency has already owned up to its negligence and the DOT has already gone on record rightly taking responsibility for the controversy, and terminating the contract with the agency.

I believe that Secretary Christina Frasco and the Department had no ill intent in this mishap, but I nevertheless expect them to take this incident very seriously, and hold accountable those who have wronged the Filipino people and the tourist spots that were replaced with alien places.

The harm to our reputation as a rising global tourism power should be repaired immediately, which should go beyond producing a correct version of the controversial promotional video.

The DOT leadership’s call to stick with their new campaign slogan is duly noted, but this should not be the end-all of the corrective process.

I reiterate my call to all relevant agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Department of Transportation, and the Health department to work closely with the DOT to improve our tourism infrastructure so that we can bring in to the country the much-needed billion tourism dollars.

The success of the “Love the Philippines” campaign will also live and die with the cooperation and collaboration of all government stakeholders so that our public transport, our connectivity, our health protocols, our logistics, and our people will be ready to deliver and accept the love our tourism deserves.

This is the meat of the daunting task that the DOT needs to focus on as it buckles down to work to address its shortcomings.

We need to support the DOT and our tourism stakeholders even more this time, as we need to infuse into our country the needed billions of dollars brought in by tourists from all over the world. And we should refrain from damaging further our image as a rising global tourist destination.

In March 2017, I attended a conference in Paris and Le Havre, France, titled “The Rise of Asia: History and Perspective. What impacts, what risks and what opportunities for the rest of the world?” The conference highlighted the global impact of the rise of the West, specifically Europe and the United States, which has led to major changes worldwide and the formation of a global order influenced by Western values.

However, there has been a recent shift in the world balance of power as a result of the emergence of Asia, particularly China and India.

Last May 2023, I received an invitation to join a media delegation for a visit to China from June 27 to July 7. The delegation, which includes journalists, professors, and bloggers will have the opportunity to travel to Beijing, Shaanxi, Hunan and Shanghai.

As of the moment I’m writing this, we’re in Zhangjiajie City. This city is situated in the hinterland of the Wuling Mountains and in the north-west of the province of Hunan.

Based on my experience with the various people I spoke to and the lessons learned during this trip, it validated the discussions we had at the conference back in 2017. Let me share some of my learnings and the significant places that we visited that led me to this conclusion.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) celebrates its founding anniversary on July 1 each year. This date commemorates the establishment of the CCP in 1921.

It is a significant day for the party and is usually marked by various events and gatherings across China.

Last July 1, we went to Liangjiahe Village to visit the place that had a significant influence on the governance of President Xi Jinping. It is located in Liangjiahe in Shaanxi Province, and it was the place where Xi Jinping was sent to during the Cultural Revolution, from 1969 to 1975.

During his time in Liangjiahe Village, Xi Jinping lived and worked alongside the rural villagers, experiencing a humble and challenging lifestyle.

This experience had a profound impact on his life. He learned about the hardships and struggles faced by ordinary people, which helped him develop a deep empathy and understanding of the rural population.

Xi Jinping has often referred to his time in Liangjiahe as a transformative period in his life.

He attributes this experience to his values and policies, such as his emphasis on poverty reduction, rural development, and the well-being of people. He has emphasized the importance of staying connected to the grassroots and understanding the needs of the people to guide his governance.

Liangjiahe Village has become symbolic of Xi Jinping’s commitment to the “Chinese Dream,” which aims to achieve national rejuvenation, social harmony, and individual prosperity. Xi promoted the idea of achieving these goals by targeting poverty reduction, rural regeneration and improving the overall well-being of the population.

A SECURITY guard received an award from his employer, Malaking Ibong Bughaw Security Services, for helping the collector reprimand the people who picked up paper bills in various denominations worth millions of pesos that had strewn along the viaduct of the South Road Properties in Cebu City last Wednesday, July 4, 2023.

Den Cueno was awarded a Certificate of Courage and P5,000 cash for his bravery in assisting the collector.

Related story: Remittance firm collector asks public to return money that they found in SRP

On Tuesday at past 10 a.m., motorists were astounded to see peso bills of various denominations strewn along the viaduct of South Road Properties (SRP).

People hurriedly exited their cars, including delivery drivers, to collect the cash that was scattered across the road.

Tony, not his real name, brought the money worth around P4 million and placed it in his backpack.

While driving a motorcycle, his backpack's zipper broke, causing it to open, letting the money bills fly out into the air.

Tony was delivering the money from a money remittance firm in SRP mall to their office in Mandaue City when the incident occurred.

Cueno thanked the agency for the recognition.

“I thank our agency for giving me the award, I will give this money to my wife sir,” Cueno said in Cebuano.

People had previously criticized the security agency after learning that Cueno had been suspended for violating company policy after he allegedly left his post and went live on Facebook with the collector.

Rommel Cabahug, the security agency’s detachment officer, clarified that they did not suspend Cueno and that the public simply misread the suggestion for a five-day suspension.

“Mao gani nga gipareport siya sa office para sa investigation. Kung unsa man ang resulta nakasabot man ko sa side ni Cueno pero igo lang man mi nagbuhat sa among trabaho,” matod ni Cabahug.

(That's why he was told to report to the office for an investigation. Whatever the result is, I understand Cueno's side, but we're just doing our job).

Nevertheless, Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) Chief Colonel Ireneo Dalogdog praised Cueno, saying that his video will help them find the people who got the money.

The CCPO will also give the guard a certificate of commendation.

Dalogdog said Cueno's actions were courageous because he did not close his eyes but instead admonished the drivers who kept collecting the money.

“Ato gyud na sya pasidunggan kay kana sila ato man sad nang mga force multipliers motabang sad na sila nato aron pag monitor sa mga criminals sa ilang AOR (area of responsibility) unya maayo sad to iyang gibuhat kay naka tabang to siya sa atong imbestigasyon kung unsa gyud ang nahitabo sa collector, basin makatabang sad to iyang video sa pag-ila mga nanguha sa kwarta,” Dalogdog said.

(We will honor him because they are our force multipliers and they will assist us in monitoring the criminals in their AOR. He did a good job since he assisted us in our inquiry into what actually occurred to the collector; perhaps his video will help identify individuals who collected the money).(AYB, TPT)

I thought the Cebu City Government, through the Cebu City Police Office, was serious about getting the homeless off the streets.

So why does it seem like their numbers have multiplied?

Mayor Michael Rama even issued an ultimatum to remove all street dwellers by June 12, 2023.

Well, it has been almost a month, but it doesn’t look like the problem has been addressed.

Just the other day, I crossed Osmeña Blvd. using the skywalk at the Abellana National School and the Cebu Normal University.

I make the crossing often, so I know several homeless people have called the skywalk their temporary home where they sleep, eat and relieve themselves.

In fairness, the majority of them are gone. But there are still minor traces of their presence like the pervading whiff of human refuse.

I encountered two members of the Department of Public Services cleaning the skywalk earlier in the week, which would explain why the source of the stench had disappeared.

Still, it’s in the City’s best interest to keep the skywalk clean since many students use it as a hangout during their breaks.

So the other day, I was making the crossing when I saw a woman without her clothes on lying flat on her back in the middle of the skywalk.

That would explain why the students were loitering on the steps instead. Still, they went about their business as if the middle-aged woman in all her naked glory was not there.

Anyway, I heard the City Government will remove the two skywalks on Osmeña Blvd. since these are on the way of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit project that is currently being implemented.

Well, I hope the City does it soon.

No doubt the People’s Republic of China has been flexing its muscles in the South China Sea, having woken up from two centuries of slumber in which its traditional role of dominance in this part of the world was usurped by the Imperial West.

In fact, China used to exact tribute from neighbors who acknowledged its superiority and precedence.

However, it didn’t mean it could walk over the people of East Asia and Southeast Asia. It launched several invasions against Japan, Vietnam and Myanmar that proved to be unsuccessful in the long run, which would explain why, in the end, the Chinese settled on the tributary system.

In a sinocentric world, trade became the prime objective, having already reached the limit of its expansionist goals by conquering surrounding areas that now constitute modern-day China.

Obviously, I am oversimplifying the region’s geopolitics. It’s hard to put into words more than a millennia of history.

But based on that history, there’s no reason for the people who live in the Philippine archipelago to be afraid of any imminent invasion, having never been invaded by China in all those years.

I find it ironic that the United States, which waged a brutal two-year campaign to subdue “Las Islas Filipinas” and rob some Filipinos of their independence (I say “some” because, let’s face it, not all wanted to break away from Mother Spain), would now take up the cudgels for Philippine sovereignty and rights.

And Filipinos have fallen for the American rhetoric hook, line and sinker.

By the way, I’m aware of recent incidents in which the Chinese Coast Guard or the Chinese Navy harassed local fishermen or authorities in the West Philippine Sea, which Malacañang considers part of the country’s exclusive economic zone.

Do I approve of the posturing? Heck, no.

But I have a feeling Beijing is just testing the water, and I believe we have already sent the message that it should be careful about not going too far.

There’s no need to escalate matters by getting the Americans involved in what is clearly between the Philippines and China.

I believe the Philippines, despite its meager defenses, can put up a good fight against a Chinese incursion. We’ll probably get beaten to a pulp in the process, but we have shown in the past that when push comes to shove, Filipinos shove with the best of them.

And I don’t mean to be naïve, but I sincerely believe an armed conflict is NOT foremost in China’s mind right now.

Therefore, the Philippines must, at all cost, avoid falling in the Thucydides Trap that the West, particularly the United States, thinks is inevitable. After all, it is their hegemony that is being threatened with the reemergence of an old power like China.

Filipinos must get rid of the colonial mentality and get out of the mindset that the West knows what is best for the world.

Now, wasn’t that much better than talking about the quixotic quest to become Singapore-like?

DANILO Lines Inc., a sister company of Lite Shipping Corporation, operating under the brand name Lite Ferries, "Ang Barkong Bol-anon," continually expands and brings in world-class brand-new ships to its fleet. On July 8, 2023, at 4:00 p.m., the company is set to launch its latest brand-new vessel, the M/V Lite Ferry Six.

The blessing and inauguration will be held onboard the vessel at the Port of Polambato, Bogo City, Cebu.

M/V Lite Ferry Six was built in China and completed in 2022. This 72-meter-long coast-wise Ro-Ro ferry has a GRT of 2,450 tons and can accommodate 300 passengers, 18 ten-wheeler trucks, and 10 cars. It is classed by RINA of Italy and has standard and tourist class accommodations, exceeding the standards set by the Maritime Industry Authority for passageways and bed bunk accommodations.

It operates at a service speed of 13 knots, reducing sea travel time on the Bogo City, Cebu to Matnog, Sorsogon route from 9 to 10 hours to only 7 hours.

The launch is expected to be a grand event with many attendees, led by DOTR Usec. Elmer F. Sarmiento, including representatives from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Cebu Port Authority (CPA), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), local LGU officials, and local media.

Lite Ferries operates one of the youngest fleets in the country, with almost half of the fleet acquired brand new and one-fourth of the fleet below 20 years of age upon acquisition. This is the result of the company's re-fleeting program for the past 10 years.

Lite Ferries is now connecting the island of Cebu to the rest of the country, operating in 32 destinations. It has been bridging the provinces of Sorsogon, Samar, Northern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Siquijor, Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, and Zamboanga del Norte.

The Bogo to Matnog trip departs at 11:59 p.m. every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. It departs from Matnog to Bogo at 11:59 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

MARINA granted the vessel pioneering status on the routes of Bogo City, Cebu/Maya, Daanbantayan, and Cebu to Matnog, Sorsogon. (SPONSORED CONTENT)

New Delhi [India], July 7 (ANI): The fixtures for Round 2 of the AFC Women's Olympic Football Tournament Paris 2024 were announced by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) on Thursday, July 7, 2023. The draw for the same was conducted in May. India, ranked 60 in the world, will open their Group C campaign against London 2012 silver-medallists Japan (ranked 11) on October 26 at the JAR Stadium in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Thr

LAS VEGAS — San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama said Thursday, July 6, 2023, he believes Britney Spears grabbed him from behind as he was walking into a restaurant at a Las Vegas casino, and that the security detail he was with pushed the pop star away.

Wembanyama said he wasn’t told that Spears was the person who grabbed him until hours later, and that he never actually saw her.

Police report

Spears, who filed a report with Las Vegas police, said in posts on Twitter and Instagram that the run-in was “super embarrassing,” and denied grabbing Wembanyama, saying she only “tapped him on the shoulder to get his attention.”

She said she had recognized him earlier in the evening and when seeing the No. 1 pick in this year’s NBA draft — a 7-foot-3 French standout who is entering the NBA with as much acclaim as anyone since LeBron James 20 years ago — she “decided to approach him and congratulate him on his success.”

Spears said, “His security then back handed me in the face without looking back, in front of a crowd. Nearly knocking me down and causing my glasses off my face.”

Police said a report was filed on an incident at the Aria Resort & Casino, but gave no further details.

Spears’ attorney Mathew Rosengart declined comment, citing the police investigation.

Never stopped

Wembanyama said security advised him to not stop for anyone as he walked into the restaurant, mindful that pausing could cause a stir and allow a crowd to build.

“We were in the hall. There was a lot of people, so people were calling (at) me, obviously. There was one person who was calling me but we talked before with security. I couldn’t stop. That person was calling me, ‘Sir, sir,’ and that person grabbed me from behind,” Wembanyama said. “I didn’t see what happened because I was walking straight and didn’t stop. That person grabbed me from behind — not on my shoulder, she grabbed me from behind. I just know the security pushed her away. I don’t know with how much force but security pushed her away. I didn’t stop to look so I could walk in and enjoy a nice dinner.”

Spears said in her social media posts that she gets swarmed by people all the time, including that same night, but her “security team didn’t hit any of them.”

Debut

Wembanyama will make his NBA Summer League debut with the Spurs on Friday night (Saturday morning, July 8, PH time) in Las Vegas against the Charlotte Hornets. He signed some autographs for fans at the Aria on Wednesday night and did the same for a small number of onlookers as he entered a local high school for practice with the Spurs on Thursday morning. (AP)

MANILA, July 7 (Xinhua) -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Friday said that five people sustained burns after their motorboat caught fire in the waters off Zamboanga City in the southern Philippines.

The coast guard said the accident occurred at about 8 p.m. local time on Thursday. The boat, carrying eight people, 100 liters of gasoline, and various essential goods, caught fire while sailing to Basilan, an i

CEBUANO teenager Grace Pauline Quintanilla is making a remarkable stride in the US golfing scene as she chases her dream to land a college scholarship.

Quintanilla, 16, flew to the US last May after qualifying in the prestigious 74th US Girls’ Junior, which will be played at the Eisenhower Golf Club—Blue Course in Colorado Springs on July 17 to 22, 2023.

The incoming Grade 11 student from Cebu is penciled to join nine tournaments in the US, and it did not take long for her to show her potential, winning the girls’ category of the AJGA Patrick Reed Junior Championship in The Woodlands, Texas last month.

It was her first win in the premiere American Junior Golf Association circuit.

“Winning is part of the goal, but most importantly it’s to land a scholarship for college hopefully,” said Quintanilla.

For the month of July, Quintanilla will be playing in California: first, at the IMG Junior Worlds Golf Championships at the Torres Pines Golf Club in San Diego on July 9 to 13, then the US Women’s Amateur Qualifier at the La Rinconada Country Club in Los Gatos and finally the Ping An Ban Junior Open at the Morongo Golf Club in Beaumont.

The teenage prodigy from Alta Vista Golf & Country Club was already making waves in regional and national tournaments in the country prior to her trip to the US.

Quintanilla said that before going to the US she prepared herself both physically and mentally, and she continues to dream big and overcome obstacles on the fairway.

With her recent feat and journey in golf, one thing is certain: The teenage girl from Cebu is writing her own story on the greens.

The Department of Education will launch three new national programs focused on reading, science and mathematics this school year as part of its latest efforts to address students’ poor competencies in core subjects.

YouTube banned channels tied to controversial religious leader Apollo Quiboloy due to violations of the video-sharing website’s terms of service.

SPANNING six months, from July to December of this year, Cebu Business Months (CBM) 2023 will feature a series of activities aimed at promoting regional development, introducing new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), and highlighting entrepreneurship in Cebu.

Business leaders and members of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) gathered at SM Seaside City Cebu in South Road Properties, Cebu City on Wednesday night, July 5, for the opening salvo of CBM’s 27th edition.

The months-long business activity, which carries the theme “Cebu 'ta Bai! Moving forward and Shaping the Future,” has four sectors, namely tourism, entrepreneurship, technology, and creative entertainment.

The sectors will hold events and discussions on tourism, regenerative tourism, product development, artificial intelligence, startups, leadership, and corporate innovation. It also aims to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and improve the livelihoods of local artists.

CCCI president Charles Kenneth Co said CMB 2023 “aims to highlight regional development by inspiring and motivating through impactful stories while introducing new tourism programs and interventions.

"Entrepreneurship lies at the heart of every Cebuano,” he said.

The overall chairman of CBM 2023 is John Paul “JP” Chiongbian, who said that their goal is to maintain Cebu’s entrepreneurial spirit and position Cebu in the global arena by embracing AI.

“To position Cebu in the global arena in this digital age of technology, start-ups, and A.I. while promoting authentic destinations and stamping our local food culture and elevating creative artists, anime, film, animation, gaming, and content creators while maintaining a purposeful and conscientious approach in doing business while supporting our MSME's which is the cornerstone of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry the voice of Cebu's business industries now on its 120th year," said Chongbian.

"The CBM on its 27th year with the theme "Cebu 'ta Bai" reaffirms the Cebuanos' resilience and bayanihan spirit in paving the way to a new and progressive tomorrow for our home, Cebu!” he added.

Tourism

On the tourism sector, Chiongbian said it is one of the key drivers in Cebu’s economy.

“We want to promote authentic destinations and food stamping our local cuisines,” he said.

In the coming months, CBM participants will attend various tourism-based events, including the Tourism Congress, Safari Adventure Race, Golf Tournament and Cebu Food Congress.

These events will be led by tourism chairperson Cathleen “Kate” Anzani.

Technology

Explaining why businesses must adopt technology, Chiongban’s avatar or the digital representation of himself appeared on screen and told the audience: “Technology will support and promote startups.

We’ll be showcasing smart homes, offices, and personal spaces.” Chiongban’s avatar was just made in five minutes. Artificial intelligence refers to computer programs or algorithms that can imitate cognitive processes such as problem-solving and simulate human intelligence.

Under the leadership of Information and Communication Technology and Business Process Management chairman Ryan Tan Yu, CBM’s Innovation and Technology for All 2023 will be providing immersive experiences, learning opportunities, and networking platforms.

The collaboration with technology leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators will enable participants to explore, learn, and connect through various activities such as panel discussions, programs, pitching sessions, and demos.

Entrepreneurship

Leading the entrepreneurship committee is Anne Gretchen Choa, vice president of the Camden Trading Corp.

The theme for the entrepreneurship sector is “creating conscious and purposeful collaborations,” focusing on establishing connections and collaborations, driving and celebrating innovations, and fostering community and mentorship.

The aim is to make business decisions that not only lead to profits but also prioritize sustainability.

The committee will concentrate on MSMEs, which are the fundamental pillar of Cebu’s economy. It strives to create business decisions that not only generate profits but also promote sustainability.

According to the CBM leadership, it is crucial to protect the players in the food ecosystem, including SMEs, startups, and proprietors of home-based businesses.

Creative entertainment

The creative entertainment sector, led by Lawrence Po Panganiban, aims to showcase prominent artists and writers who will share their wisdom and insights on how to enhance the local artists of Cebu.

Before the opening salvo ended, CCCI officials went on stage and touched the screen to signal the start of CBM 2023. (UP CEBU INTERN CHRYS CHELSEA BERNALES & CNU INTERN CLAUDINE FLORES)

SPANNING six months, from July to December of this year, Cebu Business Months (CBM) 2023 will feature a series of activities aimed at promoting regional development, introducing new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), and highlighting entrepreneurship in Cebu.

Business leaders and members of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) gathered at SM Seaside City Cebu in South Road Properties, Cebu City on Wednesday night, July 5, for the opening salvo of CBM’s 27th edition.

The months-long business activity, which carries the theme “Cebu 'ta Bai! Moving forward and Shaping the Future,” has four sectors, namely tourism, entrepreneurship, information technology, and creative entertainment.

The sectors will hold events and discussions on tourism, regenerative tourism, product development, artificial intelligence, startups, leadership, and corporate innovation. It also aims to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and improve the livelihoods of local artists.

CCCI president Charles Kenneth Co said CMB 2023 “aims to highlight regional development by inspiring and motivating through impactful stories while introducing new tourism programs and interventions.

"Entrepreneurship lies at the heart of every Cebuano,” he said.

The overall chairman of CBM 2023 is John Paul “JP” Chiongbian, who said that their goal is to maintain Cebu’s entrepreneurial spirit and position Cebu in the global arena by embracing AI.

“To position Cebu in the global arena in this digital age of technology, start-ups, and A.I. while promoting authentic destinations and stamping our local food culture and elevating creative artists, anime, film, animation, gaming, and content creators while maintaining a purposeful and conscientious approach in doing business while supporting our MSME's which is the cornerstone of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry the voice of Cebu's business industries now on its 120th year," said Chongbian.

"The CBM on its 27th year with the theme "Cebu 'ta Bai" reaffirms the Cebuanos' resilience and bayanihan spirit in paving the way to a new and progressive tomorrow for our home, Cebu!” he added.

Tourism

On the tourism sector, Chiongbian said it is one of the key drivers in Cebu’s economy.

“We want to promote authentic destinations and food stamping our local cuisines,” he said.

In the coming months, CBM participants will attend various tourism-based events, including the Tourism Congress, Safari Adventure Race, Golf Tournament and Cebu Food Congress.

These events will be led by tourism chairperson Cathleen “Kate” Anzani.

Technology

Explaining why businesses must adopt technology, Chiongban’s avatar or the digital representation of himself appeared on screen and told the audience: “Technology will support and promote startups.

We’ll be showcasing smart homes, offices, and personal spaces.” Chiongban’s avatar was just made in five minutes. Artificial intelligence refers to computer programs or algorithms that can imitate cognitive processes such as problem-solving and simulate human intelligence.

Under the leadership of Information and Communication Technology and Business Process Management chairman Ryan Tan Yu, CBM’s Innovation and Technology for All 2023 will be providing immersive experiences, learning opportunities, and networking platforms.

The collaboration with technology leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators will enable participants to explore, learn, and connect through various activities such as panel discussions, programs, pitching sessions, and demos.

Entrepreneurship

Leading the entrepreneurship committee is Anne Gretchen Choa, vice president of the Camden Trading Corp.

The theme for the entrepreneurship sector is “creating conscious and purposeful collaborations,” focusing on establishing connections and collaborations, driving and celebrating innovations, and fostering community and mentorship.

The aim is to make business decisions that not only lead to profits but also prioritize sustainability.

The committee will concentrate on MSMEs, which are the fundamental pillar of Cebu’s economy. It strives to create business decisions that not only generate profits but also promote sustainability.

According to the CBM leadership, it is crucial to protect the players in the food ecosystem, including SMEs, startups, and proprietors of home-based businesses.

Creative entertainment

The creative entertainment sector, led by Lawrence Po Panganiban, aims to showcase prominent artists and writers who will share their wisdom and insights on how to enhance the local artists of Cebu.

Before the opening salvo ended, CCCI officials went on stage and touched the screen to signal the start of CBM 2023. (UP CEBU INTERN CHRYS CHELSEA BERNALES & CNU INTERN CLAUDINE FLORES)