MikeLigalig.com

𝐃𝐒𝐖𝐃 𝐌𝐎𝐃𝐔𝐆𝐀𝐍𝐆 𝐎𝐆 𝟏.𝟐𝐌 𝐏𝐎𝐎𝐑 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐃𝐒 𝐒𝐀 𝟒𝐏𝐒


Gikonsiderar sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) sa dili madugay ang paglakip sa kinatibuk-ang 1,184,768 ka mga panimalay sa Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).


Ang tigpamaba sa DSWD nga si Irene Dumlao niingon nga kapin sa 400,000 ka mga panimalay ang naka-qualify na sa conditional cash transfer scheme, ang flagship antipoverty program sa gobyerno.
Matod ni Dumlao, ang 424,317 ka mga panimalay maoy sunod nga mupuli sa mga benepisyaryo nga bag-o lang natapos sa programa sa "Pugay Tagumpay".


Sumala sa sukdanan sa programa, ang usa ka panimalay kinahanglang anaa o ubos sa poverty threshold sa ilang probinsiya aron mahimong kwalipikado.


Ang Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) mitaho nga niadtong 2023, ang poverty threshold maoy labing taas nga P16,046 kada buwan sa Central Luzon, P15,713 sa Metro Manila, ug P15,457 sa Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, ug Quezon). Ang labing ubos kay P12,241 sa Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, ug General Santos City).


Ubos sa 4Ps, ang matag panimalay makadawat og P750 kada buwan alang sa health needs, P300 matag bata nga anaa sa elementarya, P500 matag bata sa junior high school, ug P700 matag bata sa senior high school.


Tulo ka mga bata matag panimalay mahimong kuwalipikado alang sa monthly payout sulod sa 10 ka bulan sa usa ka tuig sa pagtungha.


Ang panimalay nga nakatuman sa mga requirements makadawat usab og binuwan nga rice subsidy nga P600.


via | Almie Mata

From Frustration to Fortune


Prior to 2013 when Calendly - a meeting scheduling software used by individuals and teams for business communication, was founded, Tope worked as a salesperson at Dell EMC.


Awotona got fed up with the stress and difficulty of scheduling sales calls for Dell EMC who sells data storage, information security, cloud computing etc.


With his savings and a small-business loan, he hired Railsware (Ukraine based company) to develop Calendly.


It started as a freemium software. In 2013, seed investors invested $550k. By 2014, with more advanced features, the premium version was added.


The gradual and consistent growth got bigger and Calendly reported a huge spike in website traffic and sign-ups, when many others defended the criticism of a Silicon Valley entrepreneur about the etiquette behind sending Calendly link.


As at today, Tope Awotona's Calendly is rated as a market leader by Wired.


It is important to note that, Calendly operates an all-remote workforce. No physical offices, no headquarters.


And as at January 2021, Calendly was valued at $3B.


Joseph Adebambo
Writer & Educator

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐃 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐉𝐨𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐲𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐨, 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐫𝐨


Inclusivity remains at the heart of Mindoro State University's (MinSU) goal, ensuring that no one is left behind, especially this Christmas season. On December 22, 2024, the University exemplified this commitment through Project CARD (Caring and Reaching Out this December), an initiative that brought the spirit of Christmas to the Mangyan community at Brgy. Tagumpay, Baco, Oriental Mindoro.


Initiated by Dr. Enya Marie D. Apostol, University President, this heartfelt initiative reached Mangyan families, ensuring they felt the warmth of the season. Dr. Apostol handed them gift packages containing food and essential supplies.


The day was filled with smiles and heartfelt exchanges as the Mangyan families welcomed her with open arms. The Mangyan community expressed their appreciation for the efforts and blessings they received. For them, the initiative was a reminder that they are not forgotten and are cherished as part of a larger community.


Project CARD is one of the outreach efforts of MinSU this Christmas season to bridge gaps and extend its services beyond the confines of its campuses.


To learn more about MinSU, please visit our website www.minsu.edu.ph.


#MinSU #LIFTMINSU #UniversityOfChoice #Mangyan #OutreachProgram #ProjectCARD #SDG2 #SDG10

A PHILIPPINES NATIONAL TREASURE: BALINSASAYAO TWIN LAKES: A NEW ASEAN HERITAGE PARK 🌿


NOTE: The photos shown are representations based on existing images of the location.


The Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, located in Negros Oriental, has been recognized as one of the newest additions to the prestigious ASEAN Heritage Parks list. 


This breathtaking natural gem joins two other Philippine sites in showcasing the country's commitment to protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable tourism.


Out of the five newly designated ASEAN Heritage Parks, three are proudly from the Philippines, further highlighting the nation's ecological treasures and efforts in conservation.


Known for its serene twin lakes, rich wildlife, and lush forests, Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park offers visitors a tranquil escape while serving as a sanctuary for many endemic species.


This recognition underscores the importance of preserving the park's natural beauty for future generations.


Note: The photos shown are representations based on existing images of the location.


#BalinsasayaoTwinLakes #ASEANHeritageParks #PhilippineNature #SustainableTourism #BiodiversityConservation

𝐂𝐂𝐉 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐒 || 𝐁𝐈𝐒𝐔-𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 '𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐮𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐚 𝐁𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐠𝐨' 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦


The 𝑪𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒈𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑪𝒓𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑱𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒆 (𝑪𝑪𝑱), in partnership with the 𝑨𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑪𝒓𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒈𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔 (𝑨𝑪𝒐𝑷𝒔) and the 𝑬𝒙𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑩𝑰𝑺𝑼-𝑩𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝑪𝒂𝒎𝒑𝒖𝒔, organized "𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐮𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐚 𝐁𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐠𝐨", a meaningful gift-giving program for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Female Dormitory of the BJMP Bohol District Jail, Tagbilaran City.


The program made possible through the funds raised during the successful fundraising activity "𝑫𝑨𝑮𝑨𝑵, 𝑲𝑨𝑻𝑨𝑾𝑯𝑨𝑵, 𝑻𝑨𝑩𝑨𝑵𝑮 𝑷𝑨𝑹𝑨 𝑺𝑨 𝑵𝑨𝐆𝑲𝑰𝑵𝑨𝑯𝑨𝑵𝑮𝑳𝑨𝑵: 𝟓𝒌𝒎 𝑹𝒖𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂 𝑪𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝟐.𝟎", aimed to spread the spirit of Christmas and foster mental well-being among the PDLs. It featured a warm welcome address by 𝑺𝑱𝑶𝟐 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒂 𝑱𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒂 𝑱𝒐𝒚 𝑩. 𝑻𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒐𝒏, Acting Warden of the Female Dormitory, and a lecture on Mental Health Literacy: Pathway to Well-being by 𝑴𝒓𝒔. 𝑫𝒊𝒏𝒂 𝑮𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒐, University Guidance Counselor. The lecture sought to empower the PDLs with tools and knowledge to support their mental health and resilience.


Key attendees included 𝑫𝒓. 𝑱𝒆𝒂𝒏 𝑭. 𝑵𝒆𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂, Campus Director; 𝑫𝒓. 𝑩𝒆𝒏𝒋𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒏 𝑶𝒎𝒂𝒎𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒏, University Director of Instruction; 𝑴𝒓. 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒄 𝑩𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒏𝒐 𝑪. 𝑶𝒍𝒂𝒈𝒖𝒊𝒓, Director of the Extension Unit; 𝑫𝒓. 𝑺𝒉𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒂 𝑶𝒍𝒂𝒈𝒖𝒊𝒓, Dean of the College of Computing and Information Sciences; and 𝑫𝒓. 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒚 𝑱𝒐𝒚𝒄𝒆 𝑮. 𝑨𝒍𝒆, Dean of the College of Criminal Justice, adviser of ACoPs, and project leader of the event. Selected faculty members and personnel of BISU-Balilihan's College of Criminal Justice, along with selected Criminology students, also participated, showcasing their commitment to meaningful community service.


This initiative underscores BISU-Balilihan's dedication to uplifting marginalized sectors, demonstrating that compassion, collaboration, and a shared purpose can create hope and joy, especially during the holiday season.


#christmas2024
#bisuccjknights
#bisubalilihancampus

Simula December 22 hanggang 23, 2024 may naitalang 17 kaso ng firework-related injuries mula sa 62 sentinel hospitals na binabantayan ng DOH sa buong bansa. Sa mga kasong ito, 16 ay lalaki (edad 7-37 y/o). Mas mataas ito kumpara noong 2023 na may 6 na kaso sa parehong panahon.


PAALALA NG DOH:


✅ Iwasan ang paggamit ng anumang uri ng paputok. Gumamit ng mga alternatibong pampaingay tulad ng tambol, torotot, at iba pa.


✅ Pagbawalan ang mga bata sa pagpapaputok.


✅ Maaaring tawagan ang National Emergency hotline sa numerong 911 at 1555 naman para sa DOH hotline sakaling mangailangan ng tulong.


Disiplina ay kailangan para masaya at Ligtas Christmas sa Bagong Pilipinas!


#DOH #IwasPaputok2024 #LigtasChristmas #BawatBuhayMahalaga

A dark ash plume rises from the summit of Kanlaon Volcano, reaching approximately 1.2 kilometers into the sky.


via Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS-DOST)


The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has issued a critical notice regarding "increased volcanic ash emission at Kanlaon Volcano." Since 11:45 AM today, "dark ash has been issuing from the summit of Kanlaon Volcano accompanied by weak low frequency volcanic earthquakes." This activity has produced a dark plume roughly 1.2 kilometers tall that is drifting to the northwest.


The advisory warns that ash emission has been ongoing, and ashfall is expected to affect communities in Negros Occidental, particularly those located northwest to west of the volcano. PHIVOLCS stated that "all other parameters of the volcano remain elevated but are generally unchanged."


In response to the escalating activity, the public is reminded that "Alert Level 3 (magmatic unrest)" has been raised over Kanlaon Volcano. This level indicates "increased chances for sudden and even stronger explosive eruptions to occur," which could pose life-threatening volcanic hazards to nearby communities.


Communities within a six-kilometer radius of the summit crater must remain evacuated due to the risks of "pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), ballistic projectiles, and ashfall, as well as lava flows, rockfalls, and other related hazards." Local government units and disaster risk reduction management councils (DRRM) are urged to monitor weather conditions closely, particularly for heavy rainfall that could lead to lahars and sediment-laden streamflows from the volcano's southern flanks.


Specifically, barangays in La Castellana and Canlaon City, which have previously been affected by PDCs, along with those downstream that experienced lahars in June 2024, are at heightened risk for "channel-confined lahars in case of heavy rains."


Civil aviation authorities have also been alerted, advising pilots to "avoid flying close to the volcano's summit" as ash from any sudden eruption can be hazardous to aircraft.


Lastly, local government units and DRRM councils are encouraged to prepare communities within the DOST-PHIVOLCS Pyroclastic Density Currents Hazard Map for potential evacuations in the event of escalating unrest and the threat of a hazardous explosive eruption.


DOST-PHIVOLCS maintains close monitoring of Kanlaon Volcano and assures that "any new development will be communicated to all concerned stakeholders." Residents are urged to stay informed and heed the warnings issued by local authorities to ensure their safety.


📸 Miss Ching Lagawing

Philippines: Family receives body of rebel killed in military clash


The body of a suspected rebel fighter has been returned to her family following a deadly clash with government forces in the eastern Philippines.


Marife Gayadan, also known as Agnes, was killed during an encounter between the New People's Army (NPA) and the military's 4th Infantry Battalion in Roxas, Oriental Mindoro province on Sunday.


The handover was coordinated between security forces and Ms Gayadan's family, with support from local officials and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples.


The case has highlighted ongoing tensions between activist groups and authorities in the region. The military claims that Karapatan-Southern Tagalog, a human rights organisation, had been holding Ms Gayadan's father and spreading misinformation - allegations the group has not yet responded to.


Local sources report that members of Karapatan-Southern Tagalog were initially allowed to keep vigil at the funeral home where Ms Gayadan's body was being held, but this led to confrontations resulting in property damage.


Background


The NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, which has been waging one of Asia's longest-running insurgencies. Peace talks between rebels and the government have repeatedly broken down over the decades.


Human rights groups have long expressed concerns about the treatment of indigenous peoples caught between government forces and rebel groups in the Philippines.

Relaxation and meditation have never been this easy 🧘


The advancement of technology is all around us. Smartphones, smartwatches, and even smart homes are around us, lets move into the future with latest technology for body alignment and rejuvenation: EspineBOT therapy!


The EspineBOT is the latest innovative therapy for treating neck, shoulders, and back pain. While lying inside this robotic thermal bed, this technology utilizes 6  functions to relax the muscles, maintain muscle tonicity, and strengthens bone quality - helping to rejuvenate your body inside out!


📍 Ayala Center, Cebu City


*LIMITED TIME PROMO*
Promo redeemable once per client, sign up now.

The 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 awarded Ms. 𝗗𝗷𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗮 𝗚𝗮𝘆 𝗜𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗔𝗹𝗯𝘂𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗮, Development Management Officer II, a plaque of recognition on December 23, 2024 for her outstanding performance as the 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐫 for the Individual Category of the 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐱 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 (𝐂𝐌𝐂𝐈) 𝟔𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐲𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐮𝐦 held last December 11, 2024 at the Asian Institute of Management in Makati City.


The CTID Family is proud of your unending enthusiasm and efforts in striving towards excellence! 💜

TINGNAN| Labi ng Pumanaw na NPA, Naihatid na sa Kanilang Tahanan; Amang Kinuha at Hinikayat ng Karapatan-Southern Tagalog, Naliwanagan sa Katotohanan.


Maayos na naihatid ang labi ni Marife Gayadan alyas Agnes, ang nasawing NPA sa engkwentro sa pagitan ng 4th Infantry (Scorpion) Battalion at pwersa ng NPA sa San Vicente, Roxas, sa kanilang tahanan sa Paluan Occidental Mindoro kasama ang kaniyang mga magulang at mga kapatid sa tulong ng kasundaluhan ng 4IB sa pamumuno ni Lt. Col Erwin Glenn D. Romero at Alpha Company ng 2nd CMO Battalion ngayong ika-22 ng Disyembre taong kasalukuyan.


Matapos ang masusing pagsisiyasat ng kapulisan ng Roxas MPS sa mga dokumentong dala ng kaniyang ina at mga kapatid, matagumpay na naibigay ang kustodiya ng bangkay ni alyas Agnes sa kaniyang pamilya.


Naging matagumpay ang proseso ng pag-release sa labi ni alyas Agnes sa kaniyang pamilya dahil sa pakikipag-ugnayan ng kasundaluhan sa pamilya at mga kaanak ni alyas Agnes. Agad ding humingi ng tulong ang kasundaluhan sa opisyales ng barangay,  Punong Bayan ng Paluan Occidental Mindoro at Roxas Oriental Mindoro, at National Commission on Indigenous People - Oriental Mindoro upang makompleto ang mga dokumentong hinihingi ng kapulisan ng Roxas.


Sa kabilang banda, napakalaki ng epekto ng presensya nina Delia Gayadan at kaniyang mga anak upang mabawi si Tatay Pepe, ama ni alyas Agnes mula sa nagpakilalang mga Paralegal Team (Karapatan-Southern Tagalog). Naging madamdamin ang pagkikita ng pamilya dahil awang-awa ang mga ito sa sinapit ng haligi ng tahanan na ilang araw ginawang sunud-sunuran ng Paralegal Team upang maghasik ng kaguluhan at kasinungalingan.


Labis naman ang pagkadismaya ng may-ari ng punerarya na umasikaso sa bangkay ni alyas Agnes sa Karapatan-Southern Tagalog dahil matapos silang papasukin ng may-ari noong umaga sa punerarya upang di mabasa sa ulan, pagbabanta, pag-eeskandalo, at pangangalampag sa gate ng punerarya na naging sanhi ng pagkasira nito sa kalaliman ng gabi ang kanilang iginanti.


Patuloy ang panawagan ng himpilan ng 4th Infantry (Scorpion) Battalion sa mga mamamayan na maging mapagmatyag at huwag hayaang malinlang ng Karapatan-Sounthern Tagalog na walang tigil sa paninira sa dignidad ng mga katutubo at opisyal ng pamahalaan.


@followers
@topfans
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#4thinfantryscorpionbattalion
#BantayKapayapaan
#2ndinfantryjunglefighterdivision
#Army127

📍 PLACES to VISIT in the Island of CEBU, Queen City of the South.


1. Cebu Safari and Adventure Park, Carmen
2. Cebu Ocean Park, SRP Cebu
3. Sky Diving, Bantayan Island
4. Anjo World Theme Park, Minglanilla
5. Happy Beach Cebu, Lapu-lapu City
6. Sirao Flower Gardens, Busay, Cebu City
7. Temple of Leah, Busay, Cebu City
8. Buwakan ni Alejandra, Balamban
9. Tops Lookout, Busay, Cebu City
10. Top of Cebu, Busay, Cebu City
11. Queens Cut, Badian
12. La Parisienne Sky, Busay, Cebu City
13. La Vie Parisienne, Lahug
14. 10,000 Roses Cafe, Cordova
15. Whale Shark Watching, Oslob
16. Sumilon Island and Sandbar, Oslob
17. Pink Aserets, Oslob
18. Canyoneering/Kawasan Falls, Badian
19. Sardine Run, Moalboal
20. Pescador Island
21. Strawberry Farm, Dalaguete
22. Sunflower Farm, Dalaguete
23. Osmena Peak, Badian
24. Man-Made Forest, Minglanilla
25. Simala Shrine, Sibonga
26. Basilica del Santo Niño / Magellan's Cross, Cebu City
27. Taoist Temple, Cebu City
28. Casa Gorordo Museum, Cebu City
29. YAP-SAN DIEGO ANCESTRAL HOUSE, Cebu City
30. 1730 JESUIT HOUSE (MUSEO DE PARIAN), Cebu City
31. Cebu Heritage Monument, Cebu City
32. Fort San Pedro, Cebu City
33. Pungko Pungko sa Fuente, Cebu City
34. Camp Adela, Pamutan, Cebu City
35. Adlawon Vacation Farm, Adlaon, Cebu City
36. Seargao Seaview Cafe, Argao
37. Soul Sierra, Babay Uno, Cebu City
38. Terrazas de Flores, Cebu City
39. Bantayan Island
40. Virgin Island, Bantayan
41. Camotes Island
42. Malapascua Island
43. Olango Island
44. Carnaza Island, Bantayan
45. Kinatarcan Island, Bantayan
46. Hilantagaan Island, Bantayan
47. Funtastic Island, Medellin
48. Capitancillo Islet, Bogo
49. The Labyrinth Maze, Toledo
50. Lake Pingganon, Toledo
51. Kawa Bath at Fantasy Lodge, Samboan
52. Danasan Eco Adventure Park, Asturias
53. SM Seaside, City Cebu
54. IL Corso Lifestyle Mall and the Dancing Fountains, SRP Cebu
55. Bojo River, Aloguinsan
56. Tumalog Falls, Oslob
57. Dao Falls, Samboan
58. Cambais Falls, Alegria
59. Moalboal
60. Q-Park, Compostela
61. Mt. Manunggal Eco Adventure Park, the Little Baguio of Cebu, Balamban
62. West 35 Eco Mountain Resort, Balamban
63. Adventure Cafe, Balamban
64. JVR Island in the Sky, Balamban
65. Florentino's Eco Park, the Little Tagaytay of Cebu, Balamban
66. D' Antique Village House, Balamban
67. Dragon Fruit Farm, Liloan
68. Maravilla White Beach, Tabuelan
69. Surfing Spot, San Fernando
70. Siomai sa Tisa, Cebu City
71. Halo-Halo sa Tisa, Cebu City
72. Nanda Cafe, Consolacion
73. Tingko Beach, Alcoy
74. Lambug Beach, Badian
75. Esoy Hot Spring, Catmon
76. Durano Eco Farm and Resort, Carmen
77. Alhibe Farm, Carmen
78. KartZone, Cebu City
79. Co Jordan Talaba Farm and Fishing, Consolacion
80. Sugbo Mercado, IT Park Cebu
81. Naga City Boardwalk
82. Papa Kits Marina & Fishing Lagoon, Liloan
83. Sundaze Farm, Carcar
84. Chef's Corner Bistro, Minglanilla
85. Waterworld Cebu
86. SaDagat Beach Camp, Medellin
87. Mactan Newtown
88. Hidden Valley Wave Pool, Pinamungajan
89. Campalabo Sandbar Pinamungajan
90. 24/7 Track Oval at Cebu City Sports Center
91. 24/7 Cebu City Public Library
92. Upside Down World Museum, Mandaue
93. Happy World Museum, Cordova
94. Entoy's Bakasihan, Cordova
95. Crocolandia, Talisay
96. Carcar Lechon Market
97. Carbon Market, Cebu City
98. Taboan Market, Cebu City
99. Bagacay Point Lighthouse, Liloan
100. Mountain View Nature's Park, Busay
101. Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX)
102. Lapu-lapu Shrine, Lapu-lapu
103. Funtastic Island, Medellin. Bamboo Forest, Medellin
105. Aisle of Medellin, Medellin
106. Pearl Beach Camp, Medellin
107. Alegre Beach Resort, Sogod
108. Golden Sands Destination Resorts, DaanBantayan
109. Tuburan 360, Tuburan
110. Blue hole, Tuburan
111. Molobolo Spring, Tuburan
112. Marmol Cliff, Tuburan
113. Dao Tree, Tuburan
114. Tuburan Coffee, Tuburan
115. Inambakan Falls, Ginatilan
116. Kabutungan Falls, Ginatilan
117. Mt. Salamanca, Ginatilan
118. Divine Mercy, Oslob
119. Hangara Tambayan(beside airport), Lapu-lapu
120. Boljoon Church, Boljoon
121. Eli Rock, Boljoon
122. Mantayupan Falls, Barili
123. Sumilon Island, Oslob
124. Little Batanes, Tabogon
125. Sea Turtles Lagoon Cliff Resort, Tabogon
126. Banyan Spring/Guiwanon Cold Spring, Tabogon
127. Masters Dragon Peak, Borbon
128. Hagnaya Beach Resort and Restaurant, San Remegio
129. Lake Danao, San Francisco, Camotes
130. Santiago White Beach, Poro, Camotes
131. Buho Rock, Poro, Camotes
132. Bukilat Cave, Tudela, Camotes
133. White Sand of Cawit, Pilar, Camotes
134. Virgin Island, Bantayan
135. Hilantagaan Island, Bantayan
136. Kinatarkan Island, Bantayan
137. Silmugi River, Borbon
138. William's Nature Park and Farm, Borbon
139. Golden Manok Restaurant, Borbon
140. Hermits Cove, Aloguinsan
141. Bojo River Cruise, Aloguinsan
142. Lakeview Le Jardin, Tabunan, Cebu
143. Mainit Spring, Malabuyoc
144. Talisay Skate Park, Talisay
145. Talisay City Hall (front), Talisay
146. Talisay Lechon Park, Talisay
147. Camp Paradiso, Tabogon
148. Serenity Bayside Resort, Tabogon
149. Our Lady of Manaoag Shrine, Carmen
150. Mt. Mauyog Pinnacle Karst, Balamban
151. Tagbao River Campground, Cebu
152. Budlaan Falls, Cebu
153. Mist Mountain Resort, Cebu
154. The Fog House, Cebu
155. Gabby's Little Farm Camping Site, Cebu
156. Bayers Cafe Camping Site, Cebu
157. Evo Nature Camp, Balamban
158. Busagak Falls, Pinamungajan
159. Sinungkulan Falls, Pinamungajan
160. Udlom Falls, Pinamungajan
161. Bugsay Resto Grill, Pinamungajan
162. Hidden Valley Resort, Pinamungajan
163. Paling-paling scenic road, Dalaguete
164.  Capelinha de Fatima Replica, San Remigio
165.  Little Kyoto, Babag 1, Cebu
166.  Bombiland Grill and Restaurant, Moalboal
167.  Nalusuan Island, Cordova
168. Busay Cold Spring, Moalboal
169.  Lakeview Le jardin, Tabunan, Cebu
170.  Aguinid Falls, Samboan
171.  Tawsan Mangrove Forest Ecopark, Danao City
172.  Mt. Manghilao, Danao City
173.  Licos Peak, Danao City
174.  Danasan Falls and Peak, Danao City
175.  Mangodlong Beach, San Francisco, Camotes
176.  Monkey Watching Point, Oslob
177.  Ruins, Oslob
178.  Obong Spring, Dalaguete
179.  La Joya Farm Resort & Spa, Aloguinsan
180.  Basdako Beach, Moalboal
181.  GIMARA (GInatilan, Malabuyoc River adventure) Kabutongan Falls, Ginatilan and Malabuyoc
182.  Argao Beach Club/Dalaguete Beach Park, Argao
183.  Obong Watchtower Ruins, Dalaguete
184. Bantayan Bay, Cordova
185.  Mt. Lanaya, Alegria
186.  Mantawihan, Tuburan
187.  Kota Beach Resort, Santa Fe, Bantayan Island
188.  Sugar Beach, Santa Fe, Bantayan Island
189.  DAAT tops, Sogod
190.  Binaliw Cold Spring, Sogod
191.  Libo Mountain Spring, Pinamungahan
192.  Enchanted Mountain Resort, Dalaguete
193. Capitancillo Islet, Bogo city
194. Villa Teresita Resort, Talisay City
195. St Francis de Assisi Parish Church, Dumanjug
196. Camoang Marin Sanctuary, Dumanjug
197. Solea Mactan Resort, Cordova
198. Cordova Home Village, Cordova
199. Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant, Cordova
200. Villa Asela A Garden Resort, Cordova
201. Gakub Spring, Dalaguete
202. Joaquin Runway View Grill (beside Mactan International Airport), Lapu-lapu City
203. Mt. Mago, Carmen
204.  Igotan Cave and Falls, Talisay City
205.  Sleeping Dinosaur, Camp 5, Talisay City
206.  Mc Arthur Shrine, Talisay City
207.  Kandungaw Peak, Badian
208.  Casiño Peak, Badian
209.  Tabique by the sea, Asturias
210.  El Mar Beach Resort, Sogod


Tara lets! G?
Follow Lokal Cebuano for more 🤙


Cebu City Government
Cebu Province
Cebu Provincial Tourism Office


P.S. Comment down sa mga wala pa para atong e dungag.


#lokalcebuano
#Cebu
#CebuProvince
#cebucity
#OZRACINGLIFESTYLE
#KEISHSTICKERSPH

Trans Asia

𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐓𝐄: LAZI, SIQUIJOR🔔🎉


We're thrilled to announce our NEW ROPAX Route: LAZI, SIQUIJOR! 🚢✨ Join us on our Maiden Voyage this October 26, 2024 and be part of this exciting journey to one of the most beautiful destinations in the Philippines! 🌊🏝️


Catch our Trip!😍
𝗖𝗘𝗕𝗨 𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗔𝗭𝗜 𝘷𝘪𝘢 𝘖𝘻𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘻 & 𝘐𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘯: FRIDAY | 7:00 PM
𝗟𝗔𝗭𝗜 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗘𝗕𝗨 𝘷𝘪𝘢 𝘐𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘯 & 𝘖𝘻𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘻: SUNDAY | 7:00 AM


𝗢𝗭𝗔𝗠𝗜𝗭 𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗔𝗭𝗜 𝘷𝘪𝘢 𝘐𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘯: SATURDAY | 8:00 AM
𝗟𝗔𝗭𝗜 𝘁𝗼 𝗢𝗭𝗔𝗠𝗜𝗭 𝘷𝘪𝘢 𝘐𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘯: SUNDAY | 7:00 AM


𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗔𝗡 𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗔𝗭𝗜 𝘋𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵: SATURDAY | 4:00 PM
𝗟𝗔𝗭𝗜 𝘁𝗼 𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗔𝗡 𝘋𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵: SUNDAY | 7:00 AM


#Lazi #siquijor  #TransAsiaShippingLines #AtHomeKaSaByahe #BaiByaheNa 🛳💙

Forwarded by former Senate President Drilon.


The best evidence of our political system's desperate bankruptcy is the proliferation of actors, actresses, and comedians dominating our legislative and executive branches, including the local government units. The enactment of laws and their implementations are now being entrusted to some people who never studied law or public administration.


Willy Revillame is a good man. He has helped a lot of people including the women that he loved. But that doesn't make him prepared for the work of a senator. Philip Salvador is a fine actor. He made many people happy, including Kris Aquino, whom he gifted with a son. He belongs to a famous movie industry clan. But such credentials are not what are needed in the Senate. Lito Lapid is an excellent actor but he hasn't performed enough in the Philippine Senate. By insisting to remain in the Senate, he effectively eased out the more qualified, the more competent candidates. His popularity isn't a substitute for competence. The same is true with Bong Revilla. This guy has made politics his family business with his wife and sons all serving the government. What have they done?


Manny Pacquiao is the richest politician, next to the Villars. Of course, he deserves his wealth because he earned all of it. He did not steal money from the government. But the fact that he is a world champion in eight different boxing categories doesn't make him prepared as a legislator. He hasn't studied Political Science, much less Political Law and Constitutional Law. He isn't even familiar with parliamentary rules and procedures. He appears odd when facing such parliamentarians as Chiz Esciudero, Alan Cayetano, and Francis Tolentino. He should aspire for an executive position if he wants to serve but not as a legislator. He is a good person and a good Filipino. But, with due respect, he can't be a good senator. He should give way to the more competent candidates.


Tito Sotto has been a good public servant but he has served enough and at his age, he should give way to the younger, more dynamic and more progressive legislators. Erwin Tulfo should clarify his citizenship and explain to the people why the Commission on Appointments refused to confirm his appointment as DSWD secretary. He has an important issue to clarify to the Filipino voters. Ben Tulfo should stay away from the Senate and should instead leave Raffy Tulfo alone there. The Tulfos have to explain to the people about their sister's problem when she was former president Duterte's Tourism secretary and her contract with a TV network which allegedly benefitted her brother.


Vilma Santos must be already in her seventies. She should tell us why she is running again for Batangas governor and why, of all people, she is taking her own son with Edu Manzano, Luis, as her vice governor. She should also explain why she is allowing her other son, Christian with husband Ralph, to run for congressman, when this very young Recto has never experienced having served even as a barangay kagawad. Vilma's husband is already the Finance secretary. Are there no other Filipinos who could serve in their stead? Why are they monopolizing political powers? Vilma had been governor for the longest time, what outstanding achievements could she brag about?


Even Zanjoe Marudo and Nora Aunor are now running as party-list candidates, my God. What is happening to our country? Are we becoming a huge Sampaguita Pictures? Jimmy Bondoc, Marco Gumabao, and Marc Gamboa are joining Arjo Atayde, Lani Mercado, Jolo Revilla, and Richard Gomez in the House of Representatives. Even Ion Perez is running for councilor in Pangasinan? Why don't they invite Vice Ganda to run for mayor of Manila and Boy Abunda as governor of Eastern Samar? Why don't they get Coco Martin to run for mayor of Quezon City, and Jhong Hilario as mayor of Makati? By the way, Bimby's dad, James Yap, is running too in San Juan. My God.


This isn't the nation that Dr. Jose Rizal envisioned and Gat Andres Bonifacio fought and died for. If you guys want to make the Philippines a giant "Batang Quiapo", "Eat Bulaga", or "It's Showtime", I am not going to be a part of this show anymore.


Let us spread this to more serious minded people, so many will know, perhaps, there will be a change one day. Ctto


𝓑𝓪𝓵𝓲𝓽𝓪 𝓪𝓽 𝓴𝓪𝓽𝓪𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓷

PNP'S BLOODLESS ANTI-DRUG CAMPAIGN NETS P20.7 BILLION WORTH OF DRUGS IN 2024


The Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, announced on Sunday the remarkable success of the PNP's recalibrated and bloodless anti-illegal drugs campaign, which yielded an astounding ₱20.7 billion worth of seized illegal drugs from January 1 to December 15, 2024 — a staggering 101% increase compared to 2023 figures.


Owing to the focused and strategic implementation of the drugs campaign, General Marbil said 46,821 anti-drug operations were conducted by various PNP units nationwide, leading to the arrest of 57,129 individuals. The campaign's emphasis on high-value individuals while ensuring the protection of human rights and due process resulted in the confiscation of over 8 metric tons of illegal drugs, nearly 2 metric tons more compared to 2023.


The seized illegal drugs included methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu), marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, ketamine, and kush, reflecting the diverse range of narcotics targeted by the PNP's comprehensive anti-illegal drugs operation.


"This extraordinary achievement is a testament to our focused operations against high-value individuals in the illegal drug trade. Our commitment to a calibrated anti-drug campaign, which puts a premium on human rights, has proven that we can dismantle drug syndicates without unnecessary loss of life,"


Among the regions, Police Regional Office 4A (Calabarzon) recorded the highest haul with P9.9 billion worth of seized drugs, followed by the PNP Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) with P2.4 billion. Gen. Marbil highlighted the dedication and bravery of all PNP units involved in these operations.


"I commend our police officers who put their lives on the line to ensure that no illegal drugs make their way into our communities. Their sacrifices and dedication are instrumental in safeguarding our citizens and dismantling the structures of drug syndicates," the top cop stressed.


The PNP's success reflects its renewed commitment to eradicating illegal drugs while adhering to legal and ethical standards, proving that decisive action can go hand-in-hand with respect for human rights.


"This accomplishment is not just a victory for the PNP but for the Filipino people who deserve safer and drug-free communities. Let this achievement inspire us to continue working together in our fight against illegal drugs," Gen. Marbil concluded.


The PNP vows to sustain its momentum as it further enhances its strategies to combat illegal drugs, ensuring a safer and more secure Philippines for all.


#SaBagongPilipinasAngGustongPulisLigtasKa
#ToServeandProtect

2024 Gawad Pagdayaw Awarding Ceremonies
Teaching Personnel Category


OUTSTANDING MOBILE (ALS) TEACHER
FRANCISCO H. ALINIO
ALS Teacher III, Bansud ALS Center (Bansud)


OUTSTANDING SPED TEACHER
ROWENA A. MINDO
SPED Teacher I, Bansud CS (Bansud)
Finalists: 
RICA H. NICOLAS, SPED Teacher I of Bulalacao CS (Bulalacao)
AIZA A. MADRIGAL, SPED Teacher I Nag-Iba I ES (Naujan East)


OUTSTANDING CLASSROOM TEACHER
VALERIE S. RODA
Teacher III, Alcadesma NHS (Bansud)
Finalists:
JOY U. PRESENTACION, Teacher III of Puerto Galera CS (Puerto Galera)
KENN REYMOND N. HERMOSA, Teacher III of San Teodoro NHS (San Teodoro)
 
OUTSTANDING MASTER TEACHER:
LENIE L. RECINTO
Master Teacher II of Daniel Sapaden MES (Victoria)


Finalists:
DEMETRIO M. BANASTAS, Master Teacher II of Bansud NHS– MIMAROPA RSHS (Bansud)
EVANGELINE E. MERCADO, Master Teacher II of Bigaan ES (San Teodoro)

PNP OFFICIAL STATEMENT


The Philippine National Police (PNP) categorically denies the existence of any memorandum regarding the alleged cancellation of the Service Recognition Incentive (SRI). The circulating document is absolutely fake news and should not be considered legitimate or credible.


The PNP assures its personnel that SRI for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 is already in process. The Finance Service (FS), in coordination with the Directorate for Personnel and Records Management (DPRM), is working diligently to ensure that all qualified PNP personnel will receive their SRI. Furthermore, the Fiscal Directive, already approved by the Chief, PNP, is guiding the Directorate for Comptrollership (DC) to facilitate the smooth implementation and timely release of funds for SRI FY 2024.


We urge the public, particularly our personnel, to exercise caution and discernment when encountering unverified information that undermines the integrity of the PNP.


In response to this malicious act, the PNP is initiating an in-depth investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the dissemination of this false information. Rest assured that appropriate charges will be filed against individuals found culpable for this deliberate attempt to mislead and sow confusion within our ranks and the general public.


The PNP remains committed to transparency and accountability. Any official announcements or communications will be disseminated through proper and verified channels.


#SaBagongPilipinasAngGustongPulisLigtasKa
#ToServeandProtect

𝐎𝐂𝐃 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐢 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝟏, 𝟐, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝟑


To ensure readiness for potential tsunamis resulting from the series of earthquakes offshore of Ilocos Sur, Civil Defense PH Administrator and Executive Director of NDRRMC Usec. Ariel Nepomuceno, emphasized the importance of immediate action.


"Regional Directors 1, 2, and 3, please work closely and urgently with your partner NGAs and LGUs, especially the DILG," he urged.


The NDRRMC has directed OCD Regional Offices I, II, and III to enhance local tsunami preparedness. Key actions include: 


1. Updating regional tsunami contingency plans and drafting new evacuation plans aligned with recent hazard assessments. 
2. Mapping accessible evacuation routes with a 15-minute response time, focusing on coastal communities. 
3. Identifying and validating evacuation centers for coastal barangays and temporary shelters for displaced residents. 
4. Testing and ensuring the functionality of tsunami alert and communication systems with LGUs and communities. 


Residents are urged to stay informed and follow safety instructions from local authorities.


DETAILS HERE: https://www.pia.gov.ph/ocd-chief-issues-urgent-directives-for-immediate-tsunami-preparedness-in-regions-i-ii-and-iii

𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓:  The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has rescued two fishermen on board a motorbanca after their engine failed in the waters off Brgy. Binuangan, Bagac, Bataan on 20 December 2024.


At approximately 08:03 AM, the Coast Guard Station (CGS) Bataan received a phone call from the District Action Center (DAC) informing them that the motorbanca Martina Leigh had experienced engine failure. The two fishermen on board were identified as Giovannie Austria and Angelo Pilote.


In response, CGS Bataan immediately notified Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Bagac to conduct a search and rescue operation.


On the same date, CGS Bataan received another phone call from DAC and was informed that NCR-CL had requested the deployment of BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) to assist in the search and rescue operation on the said location.


BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) has been deployed and at around 12:09 PM, CGS Bataan received a report from BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409), confirming the successful rescue of the two stranded fishermen and at around 09:30 PM BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) informed them on their plan of docking early the following morning due to unfavorable se condition.


On 21 December 2024, at around 07:30 AM, BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) arrived at the port of Lamar. Upon their arrival, the rescued fishermen were examined by Brgy. Lamao RHU to assess their vital signs.


After the examination, CGS Bataan personnel, along with CGSS Limay, turned over the rescued fishermen and their fishing banca, Martina Leigh, to Mr. Eugene A Pascual, the niece of one of the rescued fishermen, Mr. Giovannie Austria.


The PCG team then concluded the rescue operation and returned to their respective stations without any further incidents.


#DOTrPH 🇵🇭
#CoastGuardPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks

OCD Chief Issues Urgent Directives for Immediate Tsunami Preparedness in Regions I, II, and III Following Earthquakes Off Ilocos Sur


In light of the need to ensure readiness for potential tsunamis resulting from the series of earthquakes offshore of Ilocos Sur, USEC Ariel Nepomuceno, Executive Director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), emphasized the critical importance of immediate action.


"Regional Directors 1, 2, and 3, please work closely and urgently with your partner NGAs and LGUs, especially the DILG," he urged. "Check preparations for earthquakes, with a possible tsunami resulting from the movement of the Manila Trench. Delve into the details as discussed in the Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell meeting. I understand that your areas are not as prepared as we desire, but we must remedy this situation now."


Civil Defense Central Luzon Civil Defense Cagayan Valley Civil Defense Ilocos

Soldiers, police recover NPA arms cache in Quezon, Camarines Norte


CAMP CAPINPIN, Rizal - Combined troops of the 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division (2ID) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) recovered two separate arms caches in General Nakar, Quezon, Thursday, December 19, and in Labo, Camarines Norte, Friday, December 20.


According to reports from the 202nd Infantry Brigade, the information given to the soldiers of the 80th Infantry Battalion by an undisclosed tipster led police to conduct operations at Barangay Pagsangahan on Thursday where they discovered an arms cache hidden by the NPA terrorists.


The cache contains two rifle barrels, four improvised firing devices, 32 rounds of live ammunition, four shotgun shells, a sling bag, and assorted wires.


Meanwhile, the 201st Infantry Brigade reported that troops of the 16th Infantry Battalion together with the police acted on information from a former rebel regarding the location of an NPA arms cache in Labo town's Barangay Malibago in the province of Camarines Norte.


The operation led to the recovery of 2, 307 rounds of live ammunition for various firearms, three rolls of detonating cords, 86 blasting caps, a roll of electrical wire, and three plastic drums.


In a statement, 2ID Commander Major General Cerilo Balaoro Jr. emphasized that the discoveries mark another blow to the NPA's capabilities in the said provinces.


"The recovery of this arms cache further weakens the operational capacity of the terrorist NPA and disrupts their plans to conduct violent activities," says Major General Balaoro.


"This development is a step forward in our mission to eradicate the remaining terrorists and finally bring lasting peace to Quezon Province and the entire Southern Tagalog region," adds Major General Balaoro.


The 2ID, in partnership with other government and non-government agencies, will continue to intensify its security efforts against the remaining insurgents in the area, not just to totally defeat the members of the armed groups but also to promote the government's reconciliation programs to encourage them to return to the fold of the law and reintegrate into society.


#JungleFighter
#MatatagMatapatMaaasahan

Migrating to Austria as a Filipino involves several steps. Here's a general overview of the process:


1. Determine Your Purpose of Stay**
- **Work**: You may need a **Red-White-Red Card** for skilled workers in shortage occupations[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.migration.gv.at/en/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "1").
- **Study**: Apply for a student visa.
- **Family Reunification**: Apply for a residence permit if you're joining a family member who is already in Austria.
- **Tourism**: Obtain a Schengen visa for short-term visits.


### **2. Gather Required Documents**
- **Passport**: Valid for at least six months beyond your stay[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://visalist.io/austria/visa-requirements/philippines?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2").
- **Visa Application Form**: Completed accurately[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://visalist.io/austria/visa-requirements/philippines?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2").
- **Passport Photo**: Recent photo meeting specific requirements[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://visalist.io/austria/visa-requirements/philippines?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2").
- **Proof of Funds**: Bank statements or income proof[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://visalist.io/austria/visa-requirements/philippines?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2").
- **Travel Health Insurance**: Valid for the entire stay[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://visalist.io/austria/visa-requirements/philippines?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2").
- **Accommodation Proof**: Rental agreement or invitation letter[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://visalist.io/austria/visa-requirements/philippines?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2").
- **Employment Certificate**: If applicable[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://visalist.io/austria/visa-requirements/philippines?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2").
- **Proof of Ties to the Philippines**: Employment, property ownership, or family ties[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://visalist.io/austria/visa-requirements/philippines?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2").


### **3. Apply for a Visa**
- **Schengen Visa**: For short-term stays (up to 90 days)[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://visalist.io/austria/visa-requirements/philippines?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2"). Apply at the Austrian Embassy in Manila or Cebu[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/austrian-embassy-manila/travels-to-austria/entrance-and-residence/how-to-apply/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "3").
- **Red-White-Red Card**: For long-term stays[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.migration.gv.at/en/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "1"). Apply through the Austrian embassy or consulate[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/austrian-embassy-manila/travels-to-austria/entrance-and-residence/how-to-apply/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "3").


### **4. Submit Your Application**
- **Book an Appointment**: Schedule an appointment online at the VFS Global office in Manila or Cebu[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/austrian-embassy-manila/travels-to-austria/entrance-and-residence/how-to-apply/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "3").
- **Submit Documents**: Submit your application and required documents at the VFS office[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/austrian-embassy-manila/travels-to-austria/entrance-and-residence/how-to-apply/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "3").
- **Processing Time**: Typically 14 days for complete applications[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/austrian-embassy-manila/travels-to-austria/entrance-and-residence/how-to-apply/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "3").


### **5. Prepare for Arrival**
- **Health Check**: Ensure you have a medical examination if required.
- **Language Proficiency**: Learn basic German, as it will be helpful for daily life and integration.


### **6. Settle in Austria**
- **Residence Permit**: Once you arrive, register with the local authorities and obtain a residence permit.
- **Integration Courses**: Consider taking integration courses to help you adapt to life in Austria.

HOLIDAY ADVISORY


To our valued clients and partners,


Please take note of our operational schedule this coming holidays. For further assistance, you may reach the following contact details:


Manila South Harbor: 02 852860 loc. 218, 217, 211
BCT / ATIB: 02 852860 loc. 1814
E-mail: customersupport@asianterminals.com.ph


Advance Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year from ATI!


#ATIHolidaySchedule2024


—----
Follow our social media accounts for the latest ATI news:


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asianterminalsinc/


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asianterminals/


Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asianterminalsofficial


Website:
https://www.asianterminals.com.ph/

𝗨𝗣𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗘𝗤𝗨𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗛𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗞𝗘𝗦 𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗥𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗜𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗢𝗦 𝗦𝗨𝗥 (as of 6PM 20 Dec)


Nakatala ang DOST-PHIVOLCS Philippine Seismic Network ng 𝟰𝟵 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗵𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 sa kanluran-hilagang kanluran ng Santa Catalina, Ilocos Sur mula 17-20 December 2024. Ang pinakamalakas sa mga lindol na ito ay nangyari noong 19 December 9:00 AM at naramdaman sa Santa Catalina sa lakas na PHIVOLCS Earthquake Intensity Scale (PEIS) II.


Ang mga lindol na ito ay maaaring magpatuloy at tuluyang bumaba sa mga susunod na araw O kaya naman ay tumindi at mauwi sa malakas na lindol na maaaring lumikha ng tsunami.


𝐌𝐀𝐆𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐀. Kapag nakaramdam ng malakas na lindol, mag-𝗗𝗨𝗖𝗞, 𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥, and  𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗗. Alamin ang natural na senyales ng paparating na lokal tsunami: 𝗦𝗛𝗔𝗞𝗘 (malakas na pagyanig ng lupa), 𝗗𝗥𝗢𝗣 (biglaang pagbabago sa antas ng tubig-dagat), o 𝗥𝗢𝗔𝗥  (kakaibang tunog mula sa dagat). Lumikas agad o lumayo mula sa tabing-dagat.


𝐌𝐀𝐆𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐌𝐀𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐔𝐑𝐈. Kumuha ng tamang impormasyon mula sa opisyal na website and social media accounts ng DOST-PHIVOLCS at ibang mga awtoridad.
----
PDF copy of update: https://bit.ly/EQSequence-IlocosSur


#HandaAngMayAlam #EarthquakeIlocosSur

DBM Sec Mina Pangandaman: Gov't JO/COS workers to receive higher Gratuity Pay this December; Lauds PBBM's approval of AO authorizing grant of higher pay


From P5,000, contract of service (COS) and job order (JO) workers in government shall now receive P7,000 gratuity pay not earlier than 15 December 2024.


This was announced by Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, following the approval of President Bongbong Marcos of the issuance of Administrative Order (AO) No. 28, authorizing the grant of increased Gratuity Pay to COS and JOs in government for FY 2024.


According to the AO, JOs and COS employees who have rendered a total or an aggregate of at least four (4) months of actual satisfactory service performance as of December 15, 2024, and whose contracts are still effective as of the same date, are entitled to receive Gratuity Pay.


"The last increase in the Gratuity Pay rate happened way back in 2021, kung saan tinaasan po ito from P3,000 to P5,000. Kaya nagpapasalamat po tayo kay Pangulong Bongbong Marcos because under his term, we will be increasing the Gratuity Pay for qualified COS and JO workers in government from P5,000 to P7,000," Sec. Mina said.


"Malaking bagay po ito. Isa po sa isinaalang-alang natin dito 'yung pagtulong sa ating mga manggagawa, lalo't magpapasko po at sunud-sunod 'yung nangyaring kalamidad sa bansa ngayong taon," the DBM Secretary added.


"Hindi po natin pababayaan ang ating mga COS at JO personnel dahil malaki rin po ang ambag nila sa ating bansa. Hindi po matatawaran ang serbisyo nila sa publiko. Ayaw po natin na maging empty handed sila ngayong Pasko at Bagong Taon," Sec. Mina said.


Those who have rendered less than 4 months of satisfactory performance as of December 15 may still be granted the FY 2024 Gratuity Pay on a pro-rata basis. For COS/JO workers whose length of service is three (3) months but less than 4 months, they shall receive a Gratuity Pay not exceeding P6,000. Meanwhile, those who have rendered two (2) months but less than 3 months of service shall receive not exceeding P5,000, while those who have served less than 2 months shall receive not exceeding P4,000.

Audio Bible Genesis Chapter 1 mp3
Download and listen link:
https://1drv.ms/u/s!AgAenvFTheMaheM4OFvuYv8ZF5PC9w

Joint Military and Police Operation in Cagayan Uncovers 38 IEDs, Marks Decline in Support for Terrorist Group


A joint operation by the 95th Infantry Battalion, Gonzaga Police Station, and the 203rd Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 2 led to the recovery of explosive devices in Sitio Tagkar, Barangay Isca, Gonzaga, Cagayan on December 18, 2024.


The team, led by Lieutenant Colonel Vladimir P. Gracilla, Police Captain Danilo Belnas, and Police Lieutenant Jan Andrei Nicolas, seized 38 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), four improvised blasting machines, five remote controllers, and five meters of Stranded Wire. The items were turned over to the police for proper disposal.


This operation highlights the crucial role of local citizens in providing information and signals a decrease in support for the communist terrorist group in the region.


5th Infantry "Star" Division, Philippine Army 
95th Infantry Salaknib Battalion 


Read: https://bit.ly/4iGtQGp


#OneAFPOnePhilippines
#StrongAFPStrongPhilippines
#MatatagNaHukbongKatihan
#Army127
#CATEXKatihan
#KatihanKaisaSaKatatagan

With advanced technologies spanning from remote sensing satellites to pesticide drones, China's smart agriculture market is projected to reach 100 billion yuan (about $13.77 billion) in 2024, amid the country's continuous efforts to promote modern agriculture.


China is now the world's largest vegetable producer, contributing over 50% of the total global output. The country has 42.7 million mu (about 2.85 million hectares) of facility-based agricultural planting area, with annual production of vegetables and fruits hitting 230 million tonnes.


In 2024, China's grain output surpassed the 700-million-tonne milestone for the first time, after nine consecutive years of production above 650 million tonnes. #ThrivingChina #ChinaAgriculture

𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 | 𝐏𝐄𝐙𝐀 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝟑 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐫𝐨𝐰
20 December 2024 (Friday)
-
Pasay City – With the country making its way to becoming one of the top investment destinations in the region, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) announced a strong ecozone investment performance for 2024, with approved investments reaching PhP 214.176 billion—a 21.89% increase compared to PhP 175.709 billion last year.


Following the December 17 Board Meeting at the Manila Hotel, PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga emphasized the importance of partnerships and strategic ecozone initiatives in achieving this milestone.


"Our success demonstrates investors' trust in PEZA as a hub for innovation and economic growth. We remain committed to providing the best incentives and infrastructure to attract more high-value investments," PEZA Chief Panga said.


Read full article here: https://www.peza.gov.ph/press-releases/peza-breaks-annual-investment-targets-3-years-row


#PEZA #pezapressrelease

A Crested serpent eagle was released back in Mt. Sinai, Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte. Found by a local resident in Piñan during heavy rain, the young eagle was rescued, treated, and released on November 21.


Thanks to the quick action and teamwork of the DENR-Community Environment and Natural Resources Office and Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, the bird is back where it belongs, reminding us of the power of community and conservation. Let's all do our part to protect wildlife and the environment. 🌍💚


📸 DENR Zamboanga Peninsula


#EnvironmentForLife #DENRInAction  #WildlifeWednesdays

𝐏𝐂𝐆 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐅𝐀𝐑 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭 𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐣𝐨 𝐝𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐥𝐨𝐜


The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), successfully conducted a routine maritime patrol in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc on December 19, 2024. This reaffirms commitment to safeguarding the welfare and security of Filipino fishermen in the area.


The PCG vessels BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP Cabra provided food packs to Filipino fishermen operating near Bajo de Masinloc, where about 40 fishing boats were observed. 


BFAR patrol aircraft reported two China Coast Guard vessels outside the shoal, seven Chinese militia vessels nearby, two stationed inside monitoring access, and a People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessel 50 nautical miles off Zambales. 


The PCG and BFAR continue to prioritize the safety and rights of Filipino fishermen while promoting peaceful maritime operations in the West Philippine Sea.

Remy Amador Presas (December 19, 1936 – August 28, 2001) was the founder of Modern Arnis, a popular Filipino martial art. Born in the Philippines, he moved to the United States in 1974, where he taught martial arts via seminars and camps. In 1982, he was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame as Instructor of the Year. He published several books and videos on Modern Arnis and is recognised as the "Father of Modern Arnis".


Presas earned a bachelor's degree in physical education and taught the subject at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos; because of this he was addressed as Professor Presas, and became known in martial arts circles as "the Professor". He later worked for the Philippine government in the area of physical education, spreading arnis instruction through the high schools. Presas was forced to leave the country in 1974 because of pressure from certain government officials. He moved to the United States, first staying in the home of his student, Dean Stockwell and spent the rest of his life living in North America, but traveled worldwide to conduct seminars.


Presas died on August 28, 2001, in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada from brain cancer. Since his death, several groups have emerged to carry on instruction in his art. His younger brothers Ernesto Presas and Roberto Presas, as well as several of his children (most notably his eldest son, Remy P. Presas who heads his own Modern Arnis organization), are active in the Filipino martial arts.


#wikipedia.org

𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐔𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓


As of 1:00 PM, December 19, 2024
Location: Lupi, Camarines Sur


Team CamSur, in coordination with LTO Naga and Ragay District Enforcers, has been actively managing the traffic flow along Maharlika Highway in Lupi, Camarines Sur. This effort is in response to the significant disruptions caused by soil erosion in the areas of Cabutagan and Bulawan.


Traffic is moving alternately per lane since the road cannot accommodate two-way traffic. Each lane is allotted 30 minutes to pass. The other lane starts moving only after the last vehicle in the previous lane clears the way. This has greatly helped to keep the vehicles moving.


However, traffic volume is expected to increase further as more travelers are anticipated to pass through the area, heading home or taking vacations for the holiday season.


Several critical areas along the highway are experiencing severe traffic congestion, primarily due to counterflowing vehicles. To address this issue, traffic enforcers have been deployed to these problem zones to prevent counterflow and ensure the smoother movement of vehicles, and a  Temporary Operators Permit was issued to the apprehended violators.


In addition to traffic management, the team also assisted DPWH trucks and equipment being mobilized for the repair of the eroded sections of the road. The repair activities are crucial to restoring normal traffic conditions in the area.


The weather in the area remains challenging, with intermittent rain adding to the complexity of traffic management and repair operations.


#LTO #LTOPH #LTOPhilippines #WorkingLTO #DOTrLTO #RoadSafety #RoadSectorWorks #BagongPilipinas #PublicServiceNeverWaits

𝐌𝐆𝐁 𝐗𝐈 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐨 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲


The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region XI (MGB XI) actively participated in the inaugural Mindanao Youth Convergence on Disaster Resilience and Sustainability (MYC-DRS), spearheaded by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA). The event, themed "Empowering the Mindanawon Youth (EMY) Towards a Disaster-Resilient and Sustainable Mindanao", gathered young leaders from across Mindanao to foster their role in promoting resilience and sustainability in the region.


The convergence began with inspiring welcome remarks from USec. Janet M. Lopoz, CESO I, Executive Director of MinDA.  A keynote message from Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno, Chairperson of MinDA and Lead Convener of the 1st MYC, highlighted the critical role of youth in building a disaster-resilient nation. During the breakout sessions, MGB XI contributed significantly in the discussions on "Strengthening Disaster Preparedness and Response Mechanisms", specifically focusing on the vital role of MGB XI in disaster resilience.


MGB XI highlighted its critical functions, including:


Conducting geohazard mapping and assessments to identify areas vulnerable to natural disasters.


Promoting information and education campaigns to raise public awareness about disaster preparedness.


Providing technical assistance to local government units (LGUs) in developing disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) plans.


Collaborating with other government agencies to enhance disaster response capabilities.


The bureau reaffirms its commitment to work closely with various stakeholders in mitigating risks and safeguarding communities from the impacts of natural disasters. As a key government agency tasked with ensuring environmental protection and sustainability, DENR-MGB XI recognizes that empowering the youth is integral to achieving long-term resilience. Under the leadership of Regional Director Beverly Mae M. Brebante, the bureau will  remain steadfast in its mission to strengthen disaster preparedness and build a safer, more sustainable future for Mindanao and its people.


#resilientdavaoregion
#ResilienceInAction
#OneMGBXI

NBA ratings are down. And everyone seems to have their own opinion why:


🔸Teams are taking too many 3s
🔸Officiating is too soft
🔸A cultural disconnect


Let's take a quick look at each:


🔸Teams are taking too many 3s


This theory seems to be the most trendy. Fans claim the NBA is boring, as all teams just chuck 3s.


But one of the biggest stars in NBA history is Steph Curry. And he chucks a ton of 3s. The same can be said about stars like Damian Lillard. And Luka Doncic. And the Boston Celtics.


Look at the WNBA. Caitlin Clark isn't breaking ratings records without shooting 3s.


3s may not be the problem.


🔸Officiating is too soft


Fans complain about refs sending stars to the line too much.


But strangely, the 2023-24 season had the lowest free throw rate in NBA history.


And look at the NFL. They're often criticized for being "rigged" - and both fans and media openly attack refs for favoring the Kansas City Chiefs.


Yet the NFL's revenue and ratings haven't taken a hit.


🔸A cultural disconnect


This one may have some merit.


American fans don't seem to be taking to the NBA's international stars.


Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - all are superstars. And yet fans haven't taken to them in the same way as stars of years past.


The NBA's global viewership is exploding, but its American viewers crave Magic Johnson vs Larry Bird, LeBron James vs Steph Curry, Michael Jordan vs the world.


Today the NBA has multiple MVPs and MVP candidates doing historical, unspeakable things to other teams every night.


And yet viewership doesn't reflect any of that. Meanwhile, Klay Thompson's return to the Bay to face his old teammates hit 2.1 million viewers - TNT's most-watched game outside of Opening Night.


Some believe the NBA has lost what made it great. Commissioner Adam Silver believes it's a temporary loss of viewers because of the World Series and the US election taking so much attention.


But if you've stopped watching the NBA, ask yourself...


What change would the NBA have to make to earn your viewership back?

Job 1:6-12
THE OPENING SCENE IN HEAVENWITH the presentation of the scene in heaven, the genius, the pious daring, and fine moral insight of the writer at once appear-in one word, his inspiration. From the first we feel a sure yet deeply reverent touch, a spirit composed in its high resolve. The thinking is keen, but entirely without strain. In no mere flash did the overworld disclose itself and those decrees that shape man's destiny. There is constructive imagination. Wherever the idea of the heavenly council was found, whether in the vision Micaiah narrated to Jehoshaphat and Ahab, or in the great vision of Isaiah, it certainly was not unsought. Through the author's own study and art the inspiration came that made the picture what it is. The calm sovereignty of God, not tyrannical but most sympathetic, is presented with simple felicity. It was the distinction of Hebrew prophets to speak of the Almighty with a confidence which bordered on familiarity yet never lost the grace of profound reverence; and here we find that trait of serious naivete. The writer ventures on the scene he paints with no consciousness of daring nor the least air of difficult endeavour, but quietly, as one who has the thought of the Divine government of human affairs constantly before his mind and glories in the majestic wisdom of God and His friendliness to men. In a single touch the King is shown, and before Him the hierarchies and powers of the invisible world in their responsibility to His rule. Centuries of religious culture are behind the words, and also many years of private meditation and philosophic thought. To this man, because he gave himself to the highest discipline, revelations came, uplifting, broad, and deep.[/font][/size]
In contrast to the Almighty we have the figure of the Adversary, or Satan, depicted with sufficient clearness, notably coherent, representing a phase of being not imaginary but actual. He is not, as the Satan of later time came to be, the head of a kingdom peopled with evil spirits, a nether world separated from the abode of the heavenly angels by a broad, impassable gulf. He has no distinctive hideousness, nor is he painted as in any sense independent, although the evil bent of his nature is made plain, and he ventures to dispute the judgment of the Most High. This conception of the Adversary need not be set in opposition to those which afterwards appear in Scripture as if truth must lie entirely there or here. But we cannot help contrasting the Satan of the Book of Job with the grotesque, gigantic, awful, or despicable fallen angels of the world's poetry. Not that the mark of genius is wanting in these; but they reflect the powers of this world and the accompaniments of malignant human despotism. The author of Job, on the contrary, moved little by earthly state and grandeur, whether good or evil, solely occupied with the Divine sovereignty, never dreams of one who could maintain the slightest shadow of authority in opposition to God. He cannot trifle with his idea of the Almighty in the way of representing a rival to Him; nor can he degrade a subject so serious as that of human faith and well being by painting with any touch of levity a superhuman adversary of men.[/font][/size]
Dante in his "Inferno" attempts, the portraiture of the monarch of hell:-[/font][/size]
That emperor who sways[/font][/size]
The realm of sorrow, at mid-breast from the ice[/font][/size]
Stood forth; and I in stature, am more like[/font][/size]
A giant than the giants are to his arms[/font][/size]
If he were beautiful[/font][/size]
As he is hideous now, and yet did dare[/font][/size]
To scowl upon his Maker, well from him[/font][/size]
May all our misery flow.[/font][/size]
The enormous size of this figure is matched by its hideousness; the misery of the arch fiend, for all Its horror, is grotesque:-[/font][/size]
"At six eyes he wept; the tears[/font][/size]
Adown three faces rolled in bloody foam."[/font][/size]
Passing to Milton, we find sublimity in his pictures of the fallen legions, and it culminates in the vision of their king:-[/font][/size]
Above them all the archangel; but his face[/font][/size]
Deep scars of thunder had intrenched, and care[/font][/size]
Sat on his faded cheek, but under brows[/font][/size]
Of dauntless courage, and considerate pride[/font][/size]
Waiting revenge: cruel his eye, but cast[/font][/size]
Signs of remorse and passion, to behold[/font][/size]
The fellows of his crime[/font][/size]
Millions of spirits for his fault amerced[/font][/size]
Of heaven, and from eternal splendours flung[/font][/size]
For his revolt.[/font][/size]
The picture is magnificent. It has, however, little justification from Scripture. Even in the Book of Revelation we see a kind of contempt of the Adversary, where an angel from heaven with a great chain in his hand lays hold on the dragon, that old serpent which is the devil, and Satan, and binds him a thousand years. Milton has painted his Satan largely, as not altogether unfit to take arms against the Omnipotent, grown gigantic, even sublime, in the course of much theological speculation that had its source far back in Chaldaean and Iranian myths. Perhaps, too, the sympathies of the poet, playing about the fortunes of fallen royalty, may have unconsciously coloured the vision which he saw and drew with such marvellous power, dipping his pencil "in the hues of earthquake and eclipse."[/font][/size]
This splendid regal archfiend has no kinship with the Satan of the Book of Job; and, on the other hand, the Mephistopheles of the "Faust," although bearing an outward resemblance to him, is, for a quite different reason, essentially unlike. Obviously Goethe's picture of a cynical devil gaily perverting and damning a human mind is based on the Book of Job. The "Prologue in Heaven," in which he first appears, is an imitation of the passage before us. But while the vulgarity and insolence of Mephistopheles are in contrast to the demeanour of the Adversary in presence of Jehovah, the real distinction lies in the kind of power ascribed to the one and the other. Mephistopheles is a cunning tempter. He receives permission to mislead if he can, and not only places his victim in circumstances fitted to ruin his virtue, but plies him with arguments intended to prove that evil is good, that to be pure is to be a fool. No such power of evil suggestion is given to the Adversary of Job. His action extends only to the outward events by which the trial of faith is brought about. Cynical he is and bent on working evil, but not by low cunning and sophistry. He has no access to the mind. While it cannot be said that Goethe has descended beneath the level of possibility, since a contemporary and friend of his own, Schopenhauer, might almost have sat for the portrait of Mephistopheles, the realism in Job befits the age of the writer and the serious purpose he had in view. "Faust" is a work of genius and art, and succeeds in its degree. The author of Job succeeds in a far higher sense, by the charm of simple sincerity and the strength of Divine inspiration, keeping the play of supernatural agency beyond human vision, making the Satan a mere instrument of the Divine purpose, in no sense free or intellectually powerful.[/font][/size]
The scene opens with a gathering of the "sons of the Elohim" in presence of their King. Professor Cheyne thinks that these are "supernatural Titanic" beings who had once been at strife with Jehovah, but who now at stated times paid him their enforced homage; and this he illustrates by reference Job 21:22 and Job 25:2. But the question in the one passage, "Shall any teach God knowledge? seeing He judgeth those that are high" [µymir, the heights of heaven, highnesses], and the affirmation in the other, "He maketh peace in His high places," can scarcely be held to prove the supposition. The ordinary view that they are heavenly powers or angels, willing servants, not unwilling vassals of Jehovah, is probably correct. They have come together at an appointed time to give account of their doings and to receive commands, and among them the Satan or Adversary presents himself, one distinguished from all the rest by the name he bears and the character and function it implies. There is no hint that he is out of place, that he has impudently forced his way into the audience chamber. Rather does it appear that he, like the rest, has to give his account. The question "Whence comest thou?" expresses no rebuke. It is addressed to the Satan as to the others. We see, therefore, that this "Adversary," to whomsoever he is opposed, is not a being excluded from communication with God, engaged in a princely revolt. When the reply is put into his mouth that he has been "going to and fro in the earth, and pacing up and down in it," the impression conveyed is that a certain task of observing men, perhaps watching for their misdeeds, has been assumed by him. He appears a spirit of restless and acute inquiry into men's lives and motives, with a keen eye for the weaknesses of humanity and a fancy quick to imagine evil.[/font][/size]
Evidently we have here a personification of the doubting, misbelieving, misreading spirit which, in our day, we limit to men and call pessimism. Now Koheleth gives so finished an expression to this temper that we can hardly be wrong in going back some distance of time for its growth; and the state of Israel before the northern captivity was a soil in which every kind of bitter seed might spring up. The author of Job may well have drawn from more than one cynic of his day when he set his mocking figure in the blaze of the celestial court. Satan is the pessimist. He exists, so far as his intent goes, to find cause against man, and therefore, in effect, against God, as man's Creator. A shrewd thinker is this Adversary, but narrowed to one line and that singularly like some modern criticism of religion, the resemblance holding in this that neither shows any feeling of responsibility. The Satan sneers away faith and virtue; the modern countenances both, and so has an excellent reason for pronouncing them hollow; or he avoids both, and is sure there is nothing but emptiness where he has not sought. Either way, all is habel habalim-vanity of vanities. And yet Satan is so held and governed by the Almighty that he can only strike where permission is given. Evil, as represented by him, is under the control of Divine wisdom and goodness. He appears as one to whom the words of Christ, "Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve," would bring home a sense neither of duty nor privilege, but of a sheer necessity, to be contested to the last. Nevertheless he is a vassal of the Almighty. Here the touch of the author is firm and true.[/font][/size]
So of pessimistic research and philosophy now. We have writers who follow humanity in all its base movements and know nothing of its highest. The research of Schopenhauer and even the psychology of certain modern novelists are mischievous, depraving, for this reason, if no other, that they evaporate the ideal. They promote generally that diseased egotism to which judgment and aspiration are alike unknown. Yet this spirit too serves where it has no dream of serving. It provokes a healthy opposition, shows a hell from which men recoil, and creates so deadly ennui that the least gleam of faith becomes acceptable, and even Theosophy, because it speaks of life, secures the craving mind. Moreover, the pessimist keeps the church a little humble, somewhat awake to the error that may underlie its own glory and the meanness that mingles too often with its piety. A result of the freedom of the human mind to question and deny, pessimism has its place in the scheme of things. Hostile and often railing, it is detestable enough, but needs not alarm those who know that God takes care of His world.[/font][/size]
The challenge which begins the action of the drama-by whom is it thrown out? By the Almighty God sets before the Satan a good life: "Hast thou considered My servant Job? that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil." The source of the whole movement, then, is a defiance of unbelief by the Divine Friend of men and Lord of all. There is such a thing as human virtue, and it is the glory of God to be served by it, to have His power and divinity reflected in man's spiritual vigour and holiness.[/font][/size]
Why does the Almighty throw out the challenge and not wait for Satan's charge? Simply because the trial of virtue must begin with God. This is the first step in a series of providential dealings fraught with the most important results, and there is singular wisdom in attributing it to God. Divine grace is to be seen thrusting back the chaotic falsehoods that darken the world of thought. They exist; they are known to Him who rules; and He does not leave humanity to contend with them unaided. In their keenest trials the faithful are supported by His hand, assured of victory while they fight His battles. Ignorant pride, like that of the Adversary, is not slow to enter into debate even with the All-wise. Satan has the question ready which implies a lie, for his is the voice of that scepticism which knows no reverence. But the entire action of the book is in the line of establishing faith and hope. The Adversary is challenged to do his worst; and man, as God's champion, will have to do his best, -the world and angels looking on.[/font][/size]
And this thought of a Divine purpose to confound the falsehoods of scepticism answers another inquiry which may readily occur. From the first the Almighty knows and asserts the virtue of His servant, -that he is one who fears God and eschews evil. But why, then, does He condescend to ask of Satan, "Hast thou considered My servant Job?" Since He has already searched the heart of Job and found it faithful, He does not need for His own satisfaction to hear Satan's opinion. Nor are we to suppose that the expression of this Adversary's doubt can have any real importance. But if we take the Satan as representing all those who depreciate faith and undermine virtue, the challenge is explained. Satan is of no account in himself. He will go on cavilling and suspecting. But for the sake of the race of men, its emancipation from the miserable suspicions that prey on the heart, the question is proposed. The drama has its prophetical design; it embodies a revelation; and in this lies the value of all that is represented. Satan, we shall find, disappears, and thereafter the human reason is alone addressed, solely considered. We pass from scene to scene, from controversy to controversy, and the great problem of man's virtue, which also involves the honour of God Himself, is wrought out that our despondency and fear may be cured; that we may never say with Koheleth, "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity."[/font][/size]
To the question of the Almighty, Satan replies by another: "Doth Job fear God for nought?" With a certain air of fairness he points to the extraordinary felicity enjoyed by the man. "Hast Thou not made a hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath, on every side? Thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land." It is a thought naturally arising in the mind that very prosperous people have all on the side of their virtue, and may be less pure and faithful than they seem. Satan adopts this thought, which is not only blameless, but suggested by what we see of God's government. He is base and captious in using it, and turns it with a sneer. Yet on the surface he only hints that God should employ His own test, and so vindicate His action in making this man so prosperous. For why should Job show anything but gratitude towards God when all is done for him that heart can desire? The favourites of kings, indeed, who are loaded with titles and wealth, sometimes despise their benefactors, and, being raised to high places, grow ambitious of one still higher, that of royalty itself. The pampered servant becomes an arrogant rival, a leader of revolt. Thus too great bounty is often met with ingratitude. It does not, however, suit the Adversary to suggest that pride and rebellion of this kind have begun to show themselves in Job, or will show themselves. He has no ground for such an accusation, no hope of proving it true. He confines himself, therefore, to a simpler charge, and in making it implies that he is only judging this man on general principles and pointing to what is sure to happen in the case. Yes; he knows men. They are selfish at bottom. Their religion is selfishness. The blameless human fear is that much may be due to favourable position. The Satan is sure that all is due to it.[/font][/size]
Now, the singular thing here is the fact that the Adversary's accusation turns on Job's enjoyment of that outward felicity which the Hebrews were constantly desiring and hoping for as a reward of obedience to God. The writer comes thus at once to show the peril of the belief which had corrupted the popular religion of his time, which may even have been his own error once, that abundant harvests, safety from enemies, freedom from pestilence, such material prosperity as many in Israel had before the great disasters, were to be regarded as the evidence of accepted piety. Now that the crash has fallen and the tribes are scattered, those left in Palestine and those carried into exile alike sunk in poverty and trouble, the author is pointing out what he himself has come to see, that Israel's conception of religion had hitherto admitted and may even have gendered a terrible mistake. Piety might be largely selfishness-was often mingled with it. The message of the author to his countrymen and to the world is that a nobler mind must replace the old desire for happiness and plenty, a better faith the old trust that God would fill the hands that served Him well. He teaches that, whatever may come, though trouble after trouble may fall, the great true Friend is to be adored for what He is, obeyed and loved though the way lies through storm and gloom.[/font][/size]
Striking is the thought that, while the prophets Amos and Hosea were fiercely or plaintively assailing the luxury of Israel and the lives of the nobles, among those very men who excited their holy wrath may have been the author of the Book of Job. Dr. Robertson Smith has shown that from the "gala days" of Jeroboam II to the fall of Samaria there were only some thirty years. One who wrote after the Captivity as an old man may therefore have been in the flush of youth when Amos prophesied, may have been one of the rich Israelites who lay upon beds of ivory and stretched themselves upon their couches, and ate lambs out of the flock and calves out of the midst of the stall, for whose gain the peasant and the slave were oppressed by stewards and officers. He may have been one of those on whom the blindness of prosperity had fallen so that the storm cloud from the east with its vivid lightning was not seen, who held it their safety to bring sacrifices every morning and tithes every three days, to offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving of that which was leavened, and proclaim freewill offerings and publish them. (Amo 4:4-5) The mere possibility that the author of Job may have had this very time of prosperity and religious security in his own past and heard Hosea's trumpet blast of doom is very suggestive, for if so he has learned how grandly right the prophets were as messengers of God. By the way of personal sorrow and disaster he has passed to the better faith he urges on the world. He sees what even the prophets did not fully comprehend, that desolation might be gain, that in the most sterile wilderness of life the purest light of religion might shine on the soul, while the tongue was parched with fatal thirst and the eye glazed with the film of death. The prophets looked always beyond the shadows of disaster to a new and better day when the return of a penitent people to Jehovah should be followed by a restoration of the blessings they had forfeited-fruitful fields and vineyards, busy and populous cities, a general distribution of comfort if not of wealth. Even Amos and Hosea had no clear vision of the prophetic hope the first exile was to yield out of its darkness to Israel and the world.[/font][/size]
The question, then, "Doth Job fear God for nought?" sending a flash of penetrating light back on Israel's history, and especially on the glowing pictures of prosperity in Solomon's time, compelling all to look to the foundation and motives of their faith, marks a most important era in Hebrew thought. It is, we may say, the first note of a piercing strain which thrills on to the present time. Taking rise here, the spirit of inquiry and self-examination has already sifted religious belief and separated much of the chaff from the wheat. Yet not all. The comfort and hope of believers are not yet lifted above the reach of Satan's javelin. While salvation is thought of mainly as self-enjoyment, can we say that the purity of religion is assured? When happiness is promised as the result of faith, whether happiness now, or hereafter in heavenly glory, the whole fabric of religion is built on a foundation insecure, because it may be apart from truth, holiness, and virtue. It does not avail to say that holiness is happiness, and so introduce personal craving under cover of the finest spiritual idea. To grant that happiness is in any sense the distinctive issue of faith and faithfulness, to keep happiness in view in submitting to the restraints and bearing the burdens of religion, is to build the highest and best on the shifting sand of personal taste and craving. Make happiness that for which the believer is to endure and strive, allow the sense of personal comfort and immunity from change to enter into his picture of the reward he may expect, and the question returns, Doth this man serve God for nought? Life is not happiness, and the gift of God is everlasting life. Only when we keep to this supreme word in the teaching of Christ, and seek the fulness and liberty and purity of life, apart from that happiness which is at bottom the satisfaction of predominant desires, shall we escape from the constantly recurring doubt that threatens to undermine and destroy our faith.[/font][/size]
If we look further, we find that the very error which has so long impoverished religion prevails in philanthropy and politics, prevails there at the present time to an alarming extent. The favourite aim of social meliorists is to secure happiness for all. While life is the main thing, everywhere and always, strength and breadth and nobleness of life, their dream is to make the warfare and service of man upon the earth so easy that he shall have no need for earnest personal endeavour. He is to serve for happiness, and have no service to do that may even in the time of his probation interfere with happiness. The pity bestowed on those who toil and endure in great cities and on bleak hillsides is that they fail of happiness. Persons who have no conception that vigour and endurance are spiritually profitable, and others who once knew but have forgotten the benefits of vigour and the gains of endurance, would undo the very order and discipline of God. Are human beings to be encouraged to seek happiness, taught to doubt God because they have little pleasure, given to understand that those who enjoy have the best of the universe, and that they must be lifted up to this level or lose all? Then the sweeping condemnation will hang over the world that it is following a new god and has said farewell to the stern Lord of Providence.[/font][/size]
Much may be justly said in condemnation of the jealous, critical spirit of the Adversary. Yet it remains true that his criticism expresses what would be a fair charge against men who passed this stage of existence without full trial. And the Almighty is represented as confirming this when He puts Job into the hands of Satan. He has challenged the Adversary, opening the question of man's fidelity and sincerity. He knows what will result. It is not the will of some eternal Satan that is the motive, but the will of God. The Adversary's scornful question is woven into God's wise ordinance, and made to subserve a purpose which completely transcends the base hope involved in it. The life of Job has not yet had the difficult and strenuous probation necessary to assured faith, or rather to the consciousness of a faith immovably rooted in God: It would be utterly inconsistent with the Divine wisdom to suppose God led on and beguiled by the sneer of His own creature to do what was needless or unfair, or indeed in any sense opposed to His own plan for His creation. And we shall find that throughout the book it is assumed by Job, implied by the author, that what is done is really the doing of God Himself. The Satan of this Divine poem remains altogether subsidiary as an agent. He may propose, but God disposes. He may pride himself on the keenness of his intellect; but wisdom, compared to which his subtlety is mere blundering, orders the movement of events for good and holy ends.[/font][/size]
The Adversary makes his proposal: "Put forth now Thine hand, and touch all that he hath, and he will bid Thee farewell." He does not propose to make use of sensual temptation. The only method of trial he ventures to suggest is deprivation of the prosperity for which he believes Job has served God. He takes on him to indicate what the Almighty may do, acknowledging that the Divine power, and not his, must bring into Job's life those losses and troubles that are to test his faith.[/font][/size]
After all some may ask, Is not Satan endeavouring to tempt the Almighty? And if it were true that the prosperous condition of Job, or any man, implies God's entire satisfaction with his faith and dutifulness and with his character as a man, if, further, it must be taken as true that sorrow and loss are evil, then this proposal of the Satan is a temptation. It is not so in reality, for "God cannot be tempted to evil." No creature could approach His holiness with a temptation. But Satan's intention is to move God. He considers success and happiness to be intrinsically good, and poverty, and bereavement to be intrinsically evil. That is to say, we have here the spirit of unfaith endeavouring to destroy God as well as man. For the sake of truth professedly, for his own pride of will really, he would arrest the righteousness and grace of the Divine. He would unmake God and orphan man. The scheme is futile of course. God can allow his proposal, and be no less the Infinitely generous, wise, and true. The Satan shall have his desire; but not a shadow shall fall on the ineffable glory.[/font][/size]
At this point, however, we must pause. The question that has just arisen can only be answered after a survey of human life in its relation to God, and especially after an examination of the meaning of the term evil as applied to our experiences. We have certain clear principles to begin with: that "God cannot be tempted with evil, and He Himself tempteth no man"; that all God does must show not less beneficence, not less love, but more as the days go by. These principles will have to be vindicated when we proceed to consider the losses, what may be called the disasters that follow each other in quick succession and threaten to crush the life they try.[/font][/size]
Meanwhile, casting a glance at those happy dwellings in the land of Uz, we see all going on as before, no mind darkened by the shadow that is gathering, or in the least aware of the controversy in heaven so full of moment to the family circle. The pathetic ignorance, the blessed ignorance in which a man may live hangs upon the picture. The cheerful bustle of the homestead goes on, the feasts and sacrifices, diligent labour rewarded with the produce of fields, the wine and oil of vineyards and olive gardens, fleeces of the flock and milk of the kine.[/font][/size]

Job 1:1-5 THE OPENING SCENE ON EARTH[/color][/font][/size]
THE land of Uz appears to have been a general name for the great Syro-Arabian desert. It is described vaguely as lying "east of Palestine and north of Edom," or as "corresponding to the Arabia Deserta of classical geography, at all events so much of it as lies north of the 30th parallel of latitude." In Jer 25:20, among those to whom the wine cup of fury is sent, are mentioned "all the mingled people and all the kings of the land of Uz." But within this wide region, extending from Damascus to Arabia, from Palestine to Chaldaea, it seems possible to find a more definite locality for the dwelling place of Job. Eliphaz, one of his friends, belonged to Teman, a district or city of Idumaea. In Lam 4:21, the writer, who may have had the Book of Job before him, says, "Rejoice and be glad, O daughter of Edom, that dwellest in the land of Uz"; a passage that seems to indicate a habitable region, not remote from the gorges of Idumaea. It is necessary also to fix on a district which lay in the way of the caravans of Sheba and Tema, and was exposed to the attacks of lawless bands of Chaldaeans and Sabeans. At the same time there must have been a considerable population, abundant pasturage for large flocks of camels and sheep, and extensive tracts of arable land. Then, the dwelling of Job lay near a city at the gate of which he sat with other elders to administer justice. The attention paid to details by the author of the book warrants us in expecting that all these conditions may be satisfied.[/font][/size]
A tradition which places the home of Job in the Hauran, the land of Bashan of Scripture, some score of miles from the Sea of Galilee, has been accepted by Delitzsch. A monastery, there, appears to have been regarded from early Christian times as authentically connected with the name of Job. But the tradition has little value in itself, and the locality scarcely agrees in a single particular with the various indications found in the course of the book. The Hauran does not belong to the land of Uz. It was included in the territory of Israel. Nor can it by any stretch of imagination be supposed to lie in the way of wandering bands of Sabeans, whose home was in the centre of Arabia.[/font][/size]
But the conditions are met-one has no hesitation in saying, fully met-in a region hitherto unidentified with the dwelling place of Job, the valley or oasis of Jauf (Palgrave, Djowf), lying in the North Arabian desert about two hundred miles almost due east from the modern Maan and the ruins of Petra. Various interesting particulars regarding this valley and its inhabitants are given by Mr. C.M. Doughty in his "Travels in Arabia Deserta." But the best description is that by Mr. Palgrave, who, under the guidance of Bedawin, visited the district in 1862. Travelling from Maan by way of the Wadi Sirhan, after a difficult and dangerous journey of thirteen days, their track in the last stage following "endless windings among low hills and stony ledges," brought them to greener slopes and traces of tillage, and at length "entered a long and narrow pass, whose precipitous banks shut in the view on either side." After an hour of tedious marching in terrible heat, turning a huge pile of crags, they looked down into the Jauf.[/font][/size]
"A broad, deep valley, descending ledge after ledge till its innermost depths are hidden from sight amid far-reaching shelves of reddish rock, below everywhere studded with tufts of palm groves and clustering fruit trees in dark green patches, down to the farthest end of its windings; a large brown mass of irregular masonry crowning a central hill; beyond, a tall and solitary tower overlooking the opposite bank of the hollow, and farther down, small round turrets and flat house roofs, half buried amid the garden foliage, the whole plunged in a perpendicular flood of light and heat; such was the first aspect of the Djowf as we now approached it from the west."[/font][/size]
The principal town bears the name of the district, and is composed of eight villages, once distinct, which have in process of time coalesced into one. The principal quarter includes the castle, and numbers about four hundred houses. "The province is a large oval depression, of sixty or seventy miles long by ten or twelve broad, lying between the northern desert that separates it from Syria and Euphrates, and the southern Nefood, or sandy waste." Its fertility is great and is aided by irrigation, so that the dates and other fruits produced in the Jauf are famed throughout Arabia. The people "occupy a halfway position between Bedouins and the inhabitants of the cultivated districts." Their number is reckoned at about forty thousand, and there can be no question that the valley has been a seat of population from remote antiquity. To the other points of identification may be added this, that in the Wadi Sirhan, not far from the entrance to the Jauf, Mr. Palgrave passed a poor settlement with the name Oweysit, or Owsit, and the Outz, or Uz, of our text. With population, an ancient city, fertile fields, and ample pasturage in the middle of the desert, the nearest habitable region to Edom, in the way of caravans, generally safe from predatory tribes, yet exposed to those from the east and south that might make long expeditions under pressure of great need, the valley of the Jauf appears to correspond in every important particular with the dwelling place of the man of Uz.[/font][/size]
The question whether such a man as Job ever lived has been variously answered, one Hebrew rabbi, for example, affirming that he was a mere parable. But Ezekiel names him along with Noah and Daniel, James in his epistle says, "Ye have heard of the patience of Job"; and the opening words of this book, "There was a man in the land of Uz," are distinctly historical. To know, therefore, that a region in the Arabian desert corresponds so closely with the scene of Job's life is to be reassured that a true history forms the basis of the poem. The tradition with which the author began his work probably supplied the name and dwelling place of Job, his wealth, piety, and afflictions, including the visit of his friends, and his restoration after sore trial from the very gate of despair to faith and prosperity. The rest comes from the genius of the author of the drama. This is a work of imagination based on fact. And we do not proceed far till we find, first ideal touches, then bold flights into a region never opened to the gaze of mortal eye.[/font][/size]
Job is described in the third verse as one of the Children of the East or Bene-Kedem, a vague expression denoting the settled inhabitants of the North Arabian desert, in contrast to the wandering Bedawin and the Sabeans of the South. In Genesis and Judges they are mentioned along with the Amalekites, to whom they were akin. But the name as used by the Hebrews probably covered the inhabitants of a large district very little known. Of the Bene-Kedem Job is described as the greatest. His riches meant power, and in the course of the frequent alternations of life in those regions one who had enjoyed unbroken prosperity for many years would be regarded with veneration not only for his wealth, but for what it signified- the constant favour of Heaven. He had his settlement near the city, and was the acknowledged emeer of the valley taking his place at the gate as chief judge. How great a chief one might become who added to his flocks and herds year by year and managed his affairs with prudence we learn from the history of Abraham; and to the present day, where the patriarchal mode of living and customs continue, as among the Kurds of the Persian highland, examples of wealth in sheep and oxen, camels and asses almost approaching that of Job are sometimes to be met with. The numbers-seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred yoke of oxen, five hundred she-asses-are probably intended simply to represent his greatness. Yet they are not beyond the range of possibility.[/font][/size]
The family of Job-his wife, seven sons, and three daughters-are about him when the story begins, sharing his prosperity. In perfect friendliness and idyllic joy the brothers and sisters spend their lives, the shield of their father's care and religion defending them. Each of the sons has a day on which he entertains the others, and at the close of the circle of festivities, whether weekly or once a year, there is a family sacrifice. The father is solicitous lest his children, speaking or even thinking irreverently, may have dishonoured God. For this reason he makes the periodic offering, from time to time keeping on behalf of his household a day of atonement. The number of the children is not necessarily ideal, nor is the round of festivals and sacred observances. Yet the whole picture of happy family life and unbroken joy begins to lift the narrative into an imaginative light. So fine a union of youthful enjoyment and fatherly sympathy and puritanism is seldom approached in this world. The poet has kept out of his picture the shadows which must have lurked beneath the sunny surface of life. It is not even suggested that the recurring sacrifices were required. Job's thoughtfulness is precautionary: "It may be that my sons have sinned, and renounced God in their hearts." The children are dear to him, so dear that he would have nothing come between them and the light of heaven.[/font][/size]
For the religion of Job, sincere and deep, disclosing itself in these offerings to the Most High, is, above his fatherly affection and sympathy, the distinction with which the poet shows him invested. He is a fearer of the One Living and True God. the Supremely Holy. In the course of the drama the speeches of Job often go back on his faithfulness to the Most High; and we can see that he served his fellow men justly and generously because he believed in a Just and Generous God. Around him were worshippers of the sun and moon, whose adoration he had been invited to share. But he never joined in it, even by kissing his hand when the splendid lights of heaven moved with seeming Divine majesty across the sky. For him there was but One God, unseen yet ever present, to whom, as the Giver of all, he did not fail to offer thanksgiving and prayer with deepening faith. In his worship of this God the old order of sacrifice had its place, simple, unceremonious. Head of the clan, he was the priest by natural right, and offered sheep or bullock that there might be atonement, or maintenance of fellowship with the Friendly Power who ruled the world. His religion may be called a nature religion of the finest type-reverence, faith, love, freedom. There is no formal doctrine beyond what is implied in the names Eloah, the Lofty One, Shaddai, Almighty, and in those simple customs of prayer, confession, and sacrifice in which all believers agreed. Of the law of Moses, the promises to Abraham, and those prophetical revelations by which the covenant of God was assured to the Hebrew people Job knows nothing. His is a real religion, capable of sustaining the soul of man in righteousness, a religion that can save; but it is a religion learned from the voices of earth and sky and sea, and from human experience through the inspiration of the devout obedient heart. The author makes no attempt to reproduce the beliefs of patriarchal times as described in Genesis, but with a sincere and sympathetic touch he shows what a fearer of God in the Arabian desert might be. Job is such a man as he may have personally known.[/font][/size]
In the region of Idumaea the faith of the Most High was held in remarkable purity by learned men, who formed a religious caste or school of wide reputation: and Teman, the home of Eliphaz, appears to have been the centre of the cultus. "Is wisdom no more in Teman?" cries Jeremiah. "Is counsel perished from the prudent? Is their wisdom (hokhma) vanished?" And Obadiah makes a similar reference: "Shall I not in that day, saith the Lord, destroy the wise men out of Edom, and understanding out of the mount of Esau?" In Isaiah the darkened wisdom of some time of trouble and perplexity is reflected in the "burden of Dumah," that is, Idumaea: "One calleth unto me out of Seir," as if with the hope of clearer light on Divine providence, "Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night?" And the answer is an oracle in irony, almost enigma: "The morning cometh, and also the night. If ye will inquire, inquire; turn, come." Not for those who dwelt in shadowed Dumah was the clear light of Hebrew prophecy. But the wisdom or hokhma of Edom and its understanding were nevertheless of the kind in Proverbs and elsewhere constantly associated with true religion and represented as almost identical with it. And we may feel assured that when the Book of Job was written there was good ground for ascribing to sages of Teman and Uz an elevated faith.[/font][/size]
For a Hebrew like the author of Job to lay aside for a time the thought of his country's traditions, the law and the prophets, the covenant of Sinai, the sanctuary, and the altar of witness, and return in writing his poem to the primitive faith which his forefathers grasped when they renounced the idolatry of Chaldaea was after all no grave abandonment of privilege. The beliefs of Teman, sincerely held, were better than the degenerate religion of Israel against which Amos testified. Had not that prophet even pointed the way when he cried in Jehovah's name-"Seek not Bethel, nor enter into Gilgal, and pass not to Beersheba. Seek Him that maketh the Pleiades and Orion, and turneth the shadow of death into the morning, and maketh the day dark with night; that calleth for the waters of the sea, and poureth them out upon the face of the earth; Jehovah is His name"? Israel after apostasy may have needed to begin afresh, and to seek on the basis of the primal faith a new atonement with the Almighty. At all events there were many around, not less the subjects of God and beloved by Him, who stood in doubt amidst the troubles of life and the ruin of earthly hopes. Teman and Uz were in the dominion of the heavenly King. To correct and confirm their faith would be to help the faith of Israel also and give the true religion of God fresh power against idolatry and superstition.[/font][/size]
The book which returned thus to the religion of Teman found an honourable place in the roll of sacred Scriptures. Although the canon was fixed by Hebrews at a time when the narrowness of the post-exilic age drew toward Pharisaism, and the law and the temple were regarded with veneration far greater than in the time of Solomon, room was made for this book of broad human sympathy and free faith. It is a mark at once of the wisdom of the earlier rabbis and their judgment regarding the essentials of religion. To Israel, as St. Paul afterwards said, belonged "the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises." But he too shows the same disposition as the author of our poem to return on the primitive and fundamental-the justification of Abraham by his faith, the promise made to him, and the covenant that extended to his family: "They which be of faith, the same are sons of Abraham"; "They which be of faith are blessed with the faithful Abraham"; "Not through the law was the promise to Abraham or to his seed"; "That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ." A greater than St. Paul has shown us how to use the Old Testament, and we have perhaps misunderstood the intent with which our Lord carried the minds of men back to Abraham and Moses and the prophets. He gave a religion to the whole world. Was it not then the spiritual dignity, the religious breadth of the Israelite fathers, their sublime certainty of God, their glow and largeness of faith for which Christ went back to them? Did He not for these find them preparers of His own way?[/font][/size]
From the religion of Job we pass to consider his character described in the words, "That man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil." The use of four strong expressions, cumulatively forming a picture of the highest possible worth and piety, must be held to point to an ideal life. The epithet perfect is applied to Noah, and once and again in the Psalms to the disposition of the good. Generally, however, it refers rather to the scheme or plan by which conduct is ordered than to the fulfilment in actual life; and a suggestive parallel may be found in the "perfection" or "entire sanctification" of modern dogma. The word means complete, built up all round so that no gaps are to be seen in the character. We are asked to think of Job as a man whose uprightness, goodness, and fidelity towards man were unimpeachable, who was also towards God reverent, obedient, grateful, wearing his religion as a white garment of unsullied virtue. Then is it meant that he had no infirmity of will or soul, that in him for once humanity stood absolutely free from defect? Scarcely. The perfect man in this sense, with all moral excellences and without weakness, would as little have served the purpose of the writer as one marred by any gross or deforming fault.. The course of the poem shows that Job was not free from errors of temper and infirmities of will. He who is proverbially known as the most patient failed in patience when the bitter cup of reproach had to be drained. But undoubtedly the writer exalts the virtue of his hero to the highest range, a plane above the actual. In order to set the problem of the book in a clear light such purity of soul and earnest dutifulness had to be assumed as would by every reckoning deserve the rewards of God, the "Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."[/font][/size]
The years of Job have passed hitherto in unbroken prosperity. He has long enjoyed the bounty of providence, his children about him, his increasing flocks of sheep and camels, oxen and asses feeding in abundant pastures. The stroke of bereavement has not fallen since his father and mother died in ripe old age. The dreadful simoom has spared his flocks, the wandering Bedawin have passed them by. An honoured chief, he rules in wisdom and righteousness, ever mindful of the Divine hand by which he is blessed, yearning for himself the trust of the poor and the gratitude of the afflicted. Enjoying unbounded respect in his own country, he is known beyond the desert to a circle of friends who admire him as a man and honour him as a servant of God. His steps are washed with butter, and the rock pours him out rivers of oil. The lamp of God shines upon his head, and by His light he walks through darkness. His root is spread out to the waters, and the dew lies all night upon his branch.[/font][/size]
Now let us judge this life from a point of view which the writer may have taken, which at any rate it becomes us to take, with our knowledge of what gives manhood its true dignity and perfectness. Obedience to God, self-control and self-culture, the observance of religious forms, brotherliness and compassion, uprightness and purity of life, these are Job's excellences. But all circumstances are favourable, his wealth makes beneficence easy and moves him to gratitude. His natural disposition is towards piety and generosity; it is pure joy to him to honour God and help his fellow men. The life is beautiful. But imagine it as the unclouded experience of years in a world where so many are tried with suffering and bereavement, foiled in their strenuous toil and disappointed in their dearest hopes, and is it not evident that Job's would tend to become a kind of dream life, not deep and strong, but on the surface, a broad stream, clear, glittering with the reflection of moon and stars or of the blue heaven, but shallow, gathering no force, scarcely moving towards the ocean? When a Psalmist says, "Thou hast set our iniquities before Thee, our secret sins in the light of Thy countenance. For all our days are passed away in Thy wrath: we bring our years to an end as a tale that is told," he depicts the common experience of men, a sad experience, yet needful to the highest wisdom and the noblest faith. No dreaming is there when the soul is met with sore rebuffs and made aware of the profound abyss that lies beneath, when the limbs fail on the steep hills of difficult duty. But a long succession of prosperous years, immunity from disappointment, loss, and sorrow, lulls the spirit to repose. Earnestness of heart is not called for, and the will, however good, is never braced to endurance. Whether by subtle intention or by an instinctive sense of fitness, the writer has painted Job as one who with all his virtue and perfectness spent his life as in a dream and needed to be awakened. He is a Pygmalion's statue of flawless marble, the face divinely calm and not without a trace of self-conscious remoteness from the suffering multitudes, needing the hot blast of misfortune to bring it to life. Or, let us say, he is a new type of humanity in paradise, an Adam enjoying a Garden of Eden fenced in from every storm, as yet undiscovered by the enemy. We are to see the problem of the primitive story of Genesis revived and wrought out afresh, not on the old lines, but in a way that makes it real to the race of suffering men. The dream life of Job in his time of prosperity corresponds closely with that ignorance of good and evil which the first pair had in the garden eastward in Eden while as yet the forbidden tree bore its fruit untouched, undesired, in the midst of the greenery and flowers.[/font][/size]
When did the man Job live? Far back in the patriarchal age, or but a short time before the author of the book came upon his story and made it immortal? We may incline to the later date, but it is of no importance. For us the interest of the book is not antiquarian but humane, the relation of pain and affliction to the character of man. the righteous government of God. The life and experiences of Job are idealised so that the question may be clearly understood; and the writer makes not the slightest attempt to give his book the colour of remote antiquity.[/font][/size]
But we cannot fail to be struck from the outset with the genius shown in the choice of a life set in the Arabian desert. For breadth of treatment, for picturesque and poetic effect, for the development of a drama that was to exhibit the individual soul in its need of God, in the shadow of deep trouble as well as the sunshine of success, the scenery is strikingly adapted, far better than if it had been laid in some village of Israel. Inspiration guided the writer's choice. The desert alone gave scope for those splendid pictures of nature, those noble visions of Divine Almightiness, and those sudden and tremendous changes which make the movement impressive and sublime.[/font][/size]
The modern analogue in literature is the philosophic novel. But Job is far more intense, more operatic, as Ewald says, and the elements are even simpler. Isolation is secured. Life is bared to its elements. The personality is entangled in disaster with the least possible machinery or incident. The dramatising altogether is singularly abstract. And thus we are enabled to see, as it were, the very thought of the author, lonely, resolute, appealing, under the widespread Arabian sky and the Divine infinitude.[/font][/size]

free to listen. free download link:
https://bibleverses.link/index.php/s/PPALwp4bqi4MY77

Audio Bible Book of Jude.
free to download or listen. go to this link:
https://bibleverses.link/index.php/s/tPLSpkEobWAioLR

NIV Book of Revelation Audio
free to listen or download:
https://bibleverses.link/index.php/s/ZPdNEDDQ3s2HSge

MGB XI Joins DPWH Orientation on Environmental Requirements and Online Processes for National Expenditure Program 2025


Geologist Leandrew Floyd Arceo and Mining Engineer Jenny Rose Selmaro represented the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region XI (MGB XI) during the Department of Public Works and Highways' (DPWH) Orientation and Guidance on Environmental and Other Related Requirements and Online Process for DPWH Convergence Projects under NEP 2025. This initiative aligns with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources' (DENR) regulations to ensure compliance and promote sustainable practices in public infrastructure projects.


Geol. Arceo highlighted the significance of Geohazard Certification and Geological Site Scoping, emphasizing the need for these processes to ensure the safety and suitability of project sites. He also detailed the specific requirements for obtaining these certifications, which are crucial for mitigating potential risks such as landslides, flooding, and soil erosion.


Meanwhile, Engr. Selmaro provided a comprehensive discussion on Mining-Related Laws, Rules, and Regulations. Her presentation highlighted the importance of adhering to these guidelines to maintain environmental protection and promote responsible resource utilization during project development.


The orientation served as a platform for fostering collaboration between MGB XI and DPWH, as both agencies play critical roles in balancing infrastructure development with environmental preservation. It is important to note that collaboration among government agencies and stakeholders is essential in achieving these goals and in ensuring that the general public benefits from safe and sustainable projects.


MGB XI reaffirms its commitment to providing technical assistance and guidance to its partners. The Bureau is always ready to extend its expertise to support compliance with environmental standards and to advocate for responsible development practices across Region XI.


#OneDavaoRegion
#OneMGBXI
#resilientdavaoregion

Philippine Army Ensures Humane Burial for Fallen Communist Leader, Calls for Surrender and Peace


The 46th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army ensured a proper burial for Artemio Solayao, alias Budil, a leader of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Catbalogan City, Samar, on December 16, 2024.


Solayao had been abandoned by his comrades after being killed in a clash on December 13, 2024. The Samar Provincial Task Force—Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) helped in arranging the burial.


Solayao's brother expressed gratitude for the humane treatment, despite his sibling's involvement in the armed struggle, and urged other CTG members to surrender for a better life. Catbalogan City Mayor Dexter Uy condemned the violence of the CTGs and called for unity and peace.


Lieutenant Colonel Rommel De Mesa of the 46th Infantry Battalion reiterated the government's commitment to human rights, even for enemies. Major General Adonis Ariel Orio urged remaining CTG members to surrender and join the government's National Amnesty Program for a peaceful future.


Samar Island Bulletin 
46th Infantry Battalion 
8th Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division, Philippine Army 


Read: https://bit.ly/4gEE6gx


#OneAFPOnePhilippines
#StrongAFPStrongPhilippines
#MatatagNaHukbongKatihan
#Army127
#CATEXKatihan
#KatihanKaisaSaKatatagan

The Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog (CGDSTL) successfully conducted an orientation and lecture on Gender and Development (GAD) as part of the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women and Children. The event was held at the CGDSTL headquarters in Brgy. Sta. Clara, Batangas City.


The lecture was facilitated by Mr. Joel B. Gaona, the GAD Focal Person from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Office. His comprehensive presentation focused on key topics, including the importance of gender equality, legal mandates, the social dynamics of violence, and the crucial role of Coast Guard personnel in safeguarding the rights and safety of women and children.


The activity aimed to raise awareness and empower participants to take an active role in preventing violence against women and children. It also underscored the Coast Guard's unwavering commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all, particularly vulnerable groups such as women and children.


This orientation marks a significant step in equipping Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to address gender-related issues and uphold the principles of equality, protection, and inclusivity in their daily responsibilities.


#CGDSTL
#CoastGuardPH
#DOTrPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the Fiscal Review and Incentives Board (FIRB) recently conducted a Private Sector Consultation last 10 December 2024 at the PEZA Head Office, Pasay City to discuss the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the newly passed CREATE MORE Act.


Key topics of the discussion included enhanced incentive packages, the incentive availment process, transitory provisions, alternative work arrangements, and other crucial changes under the new law.


PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga emphasized that "As an enabler of business and industries, we cannot be good only in investment promotion, but equally important in investment facilitation. Beyond regulatory implementation, we see ourselves as your partners in fostering innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable growth for the Philippine economy."


"Together with our fellow IPAs and partner agencies, we are committed to
enhance our ease of doing business (EODB) measures and ensure that our RBEs fully enjoy the incentives as promised to them under CREATE and CREATE MORE laws," the Director General added.


#PEZA #CREATEMORE #FIRB

📣𝗪𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗛𝗜𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗣𝗢𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦!


🏢 PLACE OF ASSIGNMENT:
• PAGASA CENTRAL OFFICE, QUEZON CITY
• PAGASA REGIONAL SERVICES DIVISIONS
(National Capital Region, Northern Luzon, Southern Luzon, Visayas  and Mindanao)


💸Competitive compensation benefits and allowable benefits provided under the Magna Carta for Scientists, Engineers, Researchers, and other S&T Personnel in Government (RA 8439)


🔍QUALIFICATIONS:
• For qualifications and requirements, kindly refer to this link:
https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/vacancy


Deadline of Application: December 20, 2024

In a provocative statement that shocked the chess world, Garry Kasparov, the former World Chess Champion, once dismissed Judit Polgár, the Hungarian chess prodigy, by calling her "a circus puppet."
He even went as far as suggesting that women should stay at home and focus on raising children, a comment that seemed to undermine Polgár's groundbreaking career.
Despite her remarkable victories over some of the game's greatest players, she was still not widely recognised as a professional player by many in the chess establishment.
But in 2002, during a World Rapid Chess Championship, Polgár's moment of reckoning arrived.
The tournament featured games with a 25-minute time limit, and in a historic match, Polgár triumphed over Kasparov—the first woman ever to defeat the world's number one player.
The outcome forced Kasparov to confront his previous remarks.
He issued a public apology, acknowledging his mistake: "I was wrong about women playing chess. I gave an opinion a long time ago that I no longer believe."
It was only after Polgár's stunning victory that Kasparov seemed to truly grasp the scope of her talent—and perhaps more importantly, the evolving role of women in the game of chess.
Credit Goes to Respective Owner

TIPS SA PAG TATANIM
ANG KALENDARYO NG PAGTATANIM NG GULAY
(ENERO-DESYEMBRE)
JANUARY: Ampalaya, Kamote, Sayote, Talong, Letsugas, Kabute, Okra, Patola, Petsay, Sili, Talinum, Kamatis, Upo, Mustasa, Cauliflower Sibuyas, Repolyo, at Mongo
FEBRUARY: Ampalaya, Kamote, Sayote, Talong, Letsugas, Kabute, Petsay, Sigarilyas, Kalabasa, Talinum, at Mongo
MARCH: Ampalaya, Kamote, Sayote, Talong, Letsugas, Kabute, Petsay, Talinum, at Kamatis
APRIL: Ampalaya, Kamote, Talong, Letsugas, Kabute, Okra, Patani, Petsay, Sili, Sigarilyas, Kalabasa, Talinum, at Mongo
MAY: Ampalaya, Bataw, Kamote, Sayote, Talong, Letsugas, Kabute, Okra, Patani, Patola, Petsay, Sili, Sigarilyas, Sitaw, Kalabasa, Talinum, at Mongo
JUNE: Ampalaya, Bataw, Sayote, Talong, Letsugas, Kabute, Patani, Patola, Petsay, Sili, Sitaw, Kalabasa, Talinum, Okra, Munggo, at Sigarilyas
JULY: Ampalaya, Kamote, Talong, Kabute, at Talinum
AUGUST: Ampalaya, Kamote, Talong, Kabute, at Talinum
SEPTEMBER: Ampalaya, Kamote, Sayote, Talong, Letsugas, Kabute, Patola, Petsay, Sili, Sigarilyas, Sitaw, Talinum, Kamatis, Upo, at Mongo
OCTOBER: Ampalaya, Kamote, Sayote, Talong, Letsugas, Kabute, Patola, Petsay, Sili, Sigarilyas, Sitaw, Talinum, Kamatis, Upo, at Mongo
NOVEMBER: Ampalaya, Kamote, Sayote, Talong, Letsugas, Kabute, Patola, Petsay, Sili, Sigarilyas, Sitaw, Talinum, Kamatis, Upo, at Mongo
DECEMBER: Ampalaya, Kamote, Sayote, Talong, Letsugas, Kabute, Patola, Petsay, Sili, Sigarilyas, Sitaw, Talinum, Kamatis, Upo, at Mongo
KALENDARYO NG PAGTATANIM, GABAY SA TAMANG PAGTANIM
Ngayong alam niyo na ang kalendaryo ng pagtatanim ng gulay, gawin niyo itong gabay sa inyong pagtatanim kung nais niyong mas gumanda pa ang inyong ani. O kahit ng mga nasa bahay lamang na mahilig ding magtanim ng mga gulay. At sa mga nag babalak pa lamang pasukin ang negosyong may kaugnayan sa pagtatanim, kailangang malaman at maintindihan ninyo ang kahalagahan nito
Ang pagtatanim ay isang pinakamahalagang parte sa mahiwaga at malawak na mundo ng agrikultura, pagtatanim na minana pa natin sa ating mga ninuno at mahalagang maipamana rin natin ito sa mga susunod na henerasyon. Kaya dapat alam natin ang halaga ng kalendaryo ng pagtatanim, isang gabay sa tamang pagtanim.
IBA PANG MGA SALIK NG PAGTATANIM
Bagaman mahalagang pag-aralan ang kalendaryo ng pagtatanim ng gulay para sa mas magandang ani, importanteng pag-aralan mo rin ang ekonomiks sa likod ng iyong pagtatanim. Ibig sabihin, pagtimbang timbangin mo rin ang demand at suplay ng iyong produkto. Kung mataas ang demand ng gulay, mas mataas ang presyo nito. Kailan ba mas tumataas ang demand ng isang partikular na gulay.
Iyan ay sa mga panahon na hindi uso o out of season ang isang gulay. Kaya bagaman may kalendaryo ng pagtatanim ng gulay na sinusunod ang mga magsasaka, pwede ka ring mag-aral ng off season farming: oo nga't hindi gaanong marami ang ani, subalit maipagbibili mo naman ito ng mahal!


#ivyrosegarden #plants  #viral #garden #vegetarian  #fruits  #okra #kamatis #buko #ctto #plantito #plantita #farmer  #garden  #plants #ivyrosegarden #reels #plantsmakepeoplehappy #ivyrosegarden

Dalawang (2) bag na naglalaman ng pinaghihinalaang marijuana vape ang nasabat sa isang lalaking pasahero sa Passenger Terminal Building ng pantalan ng TMO-Pasig nitong ika-6 ng Disyembre 2024.


Patungong Coron, Palawan ang pasahero nang mahulihan ito ng mga operator ng screening machine sa PTB ng hinihinalang ipinagbabawal na droga nang dumaan sa  baggage screening area ang bag nito. Agad namang rumisponde sila PPO2 Danilo Bactol, SPPI James Lawrence C. Fortu at SPPI Ronaldo K. Lim  ng Port Police Division, PMO NCR-South nang malaman ang insidente, at nakipag-ugnayan  sa Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).


Masusing pag-inspection sa mga bagahe ng pasahero ang isinagawa ng mga kinatawan mula sa PDEA sa tulong ng kanilang K9 narcotic detection dog. Ang K9 ay nagbigay ng indikasyon na positibo sa hinihinalang droga ang mga bagahe kung kaya't  agad na nagsagawa ang mga kawani ng PDEA at Port Police ng paghahanap at pagkumpiska sa nilalaman ng mga bagahe ng pasahero ng naaayon sa tamang proseso at operasyon.


Natagpuan sa loob ng mga bagahe ang mga vape liquid solution na cannabis sativa kung saan ay agad itong sinamsam at minarkahan bilang ebidensya ng operatiba. Samantala, nasa imbestigasyon din ang mga kinatawan mula sa Barangay bilang witness.


Ang pasahero  ay agad na inaresto at kasalukuyang nasa kustodiya na ng PDEA para masampahan ng karampatang kaso kaugnay sa paglabag sa Republic Act 9165.


Ang Philippine Ports Authority ay patuloy sa pagkondena  sa paggamit ng ipinagbabawal na droga  o paglabag sa RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act).


P-agbangon
P-ag-unlad
A-bot tanaw


#PPA
#PhilippinePortsAuthority   
#PhPorts
#BagongPilipinas


"Sa progresibong Pantalan, aasenso ang bayan"


Facebook: @portsauthorityph
X: @ph_ports
Youtube: @ph_ports
Instagram: @ph_ports
Tiktok: @ph_ports

17 ASIAN PROVERBS THAT YOU MUST KNOW!


1. Chinese: "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now."
(Emphasizing the importance of taking action without delay.)


2. Japanese: "Fall seven times, stand up eight."
(Encouraging perseverance through adversity.)


3. Indian: "The tree does not bother about flowers that fall."
(Teaching detachment and letting go.)


4. Korean: "Even monkeys fall from trees."
(Acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes.)


5. Vietnamese: "Brothers and sisters are as close as hands and feet."
(Highlighting the bond of family.)


6. Thai: "If you pick up one end of a stick, you also pick up the other."
(Actions come with consequences.)


7. Persian: "A stone thrown at the right time is better than gold given at the wrong time."
(The importance of timing.)


8. Filipino: "He who does not look back at where he came from will never get to his destination."
(Valuing gratitude and humility.)


9. Chinese: "To know the road ahead, ask those coming back."
(Learning from others' experiences.)


10. Japanese: "A single arrow is easily broken, but not ten in a bundle."
(Strength in unity.)


11. Indian: "Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere."
(Valuing education and knowledge.)


12. Korean: "A tiger's stripes are on the outside, but a man's are on the inside."
(Character defines a person.)


13. Vietnamese: "When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree."
(Gratitude for past efforts.)


14. Thai: "Do not let your shadow walk you."
(Don't let fear or the past control you.)


15. Mongolian: "The first glass is for the guest, the second for enjoyment, the third for chaos."
(Moderation is key.)


16. Tibetan: "A hundred male and a hundred female qualities make a perfect human being."
(Balance and harmony create perfection.)


17. Chinese: "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
(Starting is the key to achievement.)

Joint Security Operation in Kadayangan Leads to Firefight, Weapons Recovery, and Death of Armed Group Member


The 34th Infantry Battalion, along with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and local officials, conducted a security operation in Barangay Mudseng, Kadayangan, on December 16, 2024, SGA-BARMM, after receiving reports of an armed group in the area. During a mobile patrol, they came under attack, resulting in a 20-minute firefight.


Afterward, a clearing operation recovered several weapons, including a Cal 50 sniper rifle, an M14 rifle, grenade launchers, and ammunition. One body was also found. The PNP took charge of the investigation, with the body sent for post-mortem examination. This operation highlights the successful collaboration between the military, police, local officials, and the community in combating lawlessness and promoting peace and security.


34th Infantry Reliable Battalion 


Read:  https://bit.ly/41EtGJI


#OneAFPOnePhilippines
#StrongAFPStrongPhilippines
#MatatagNaHukbongKatihan
#Army127
#CATEXKatihan
#KatihanKaisaSaKatatagan

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has conducted a five-day Maritime Tactical Skills Training (MTST) at the Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog (CGDSTL) Headquarters in Batangas City from 09 to 13 December 2024.


Thirty-nine personnel from CGDSTL, the Coast Guard Special Operations Unit Southern Tagalog (SOU-STL), and the PCG's Maritime Security Response Group participated on the said training.


According to the CGDSTL, the training was in collaboration with key international partners, including the Special Operations Task Force-Philippines, Maritime Special Operations Forces Liaison Element (MARSOFLE), US Navy Special Boat Team-Coastal Troop, US Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team-West, and US Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance.


The program featured an extensive curriculum of lectures and practical exercises, covering critical skills such as tactical combat casualty care, maritime combat tactics, high-risk boarding operations, hostage rescue techniques, and tactical communications.


"This initiative underscores the PCG's commitment to continually upgrading its personnel's skills in partnership with both international and local stakeholders. The training enhances the organization's readiness to maintain peace and security across the region, contributing to a safer Philippines and a free and open Indo-Pacific," the CGDSTL furthered.


https://www.facebook.com/HCGDSTL/posts/pfbid02MGFRw3jkeojE9fExd3uB5Sey1W1gFv76UX34qJh1cmGeTcZTGkc6kfJW2m2Cibf5l


#DOTrPH 🇵🇭
#CoastGuardPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks

𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃: 𝐍𝐖𝐏𝐂 𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐌𝐒 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐖𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐆𝐀, 𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐆𝐄𝐓𝐒 𝐒𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐖𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐎𝐖𝐓𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐔𝐎𝐔𝐒 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐃𝐔𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐒


Private and domestic workers in CARAGA are set to receive minimum wage hikes following the unanimous affirmation of the National Wages and Productivity Commission on 13 December 2024 of the new wage orders motu proprio issued by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) - XIII. Wage Order No. RXIII-19 grants a P50 daily wage increase for private sector workers in the region to be given in two (2) tranches. This brings the daily minimum wage from P385 to P415 across all sectors upon effectivity and from P415 to P435 upon implementation of the second tranche on 01 May 2025.


Similarly, Wage Order No. RXIII-DW-05 provides a P1,000 increase for domestic workers in the region, bringing the sector's monthly minimum wage to P6,000.


𝐅𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲: https://www.dole.gov.ph/news/nwpc-affirms-new-wage-orders-for-caraga-targets-sustainable-wage-growth-through-continuous-productivity-initiatives/


#BagongPilipinas
#SerbisyongDOLE

Noong Disyembre 15, 1944, dumaong ang mga pwersang Amerikano sa dalampasigan ng San Jose sa isla ng Mindoro, hudyat ng pagsisimula ng kampanya ng pagpapalaya ng mga lugar sa Luzon sa kamay ng mga Hapon.


Noong Oktubre 20, 1944, dumaong sa Leyte ang hukbo ni Douglas MacArthur upang makalaya ang iba't ibang bahagi ng kapuluan sa okupasyon ng Hapon. Pagtupad ito sa pangako matapos lumikas noong 1942 na siya ay babalik. Naging matagumpay ang naging pakikipagsapalaran ng mga Amerikano laban sa mga Hapon sa bahagi ng Kabisayaan. Pinaghandaan naman nila kung paano lulusubin ang Luzo.


Sa paglusob ng mga Amerikano sa isla ng Mindoro, nahati ang dating Visayan Attack Force sa tatlong pangkat. Ito ay ang Mindoro Attack Group sa ilalim ni Admiral Arthur D. Struble, Close Covering Group ni Rear Admiral Russell S. Berkey, at ang Motor Torpedo Boat Group sa pangunguna ni Lt. Com. N. Burt Davis. Kasama rito ang 11,878 combat troops, 9,578 sundalo ng hukbong himpapawid, at 5,901 service troops sa pangunguna ni Hen. William C. Dunckel.


Dahil sa tagumpay ng puwersang Amerikano sa Mindoro, nagamit ang isla bilang lunsaran para sa mga paglusob sa Luzon. Kinilala rin ang mga pangkat gerilya na nakatulong sa paghahanda sa paglusob.


Noong 2010, nilagyan ng panandang pangkasaysayan ang pook na pinagdaungan ng mga Amerikano sa Mindoro.


Mga Sanggunian:


Agoncillo, Teodoro. 1965. The Fateful Years: Japan's Adventure in the Philippines, 1941-1945. Tomo 2. Dalawang tomo. Lungsod Quezon: University of the Philippines Press.


National Historical Commission of the Philippines. 2010. "Pagdaong sa Mindoro." National Registry of Historic Sites and Structures in the Philippines. https://nhcphistoricsites.blogspot.com/2021/09/pagdaong-sa-mindoro.html?m=1


Reports of General MacArthur: The Campaigns of MacArthur in the Pacific, 1966. Tomo 1. Dalawang tomo. Washington, D.C.: US Army Center of Military History. https://history.army.mil/books/wwii/MacArthur%20Reports/MacArthur%20V1/index.htm#contents.


Smith, Robert Ross. 1963. Triumph in the Philippines. Washington, D.C.: US Army Center of Military History. https://history.army.mil/html/books/005/5-10-1/index.html.


. . .
May saysay ang kasaysayan. Ikalat pa natin:
🖐 I-like at i-follow ang Project Saysay at Project Vinta
👉 Bisitahin ang www.psaysay.org
🤙 Usap tayo paano pa natin mapapalakas ang public history sa project.saysay@gmail.com
#pSaysay11

#𝐈𝐧𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 | 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐒𝐔 𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐒𝐂𝐔𝐀𝐀𝐒𝐃 𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠


Following the successful conclusion of the Southern Tagalog Regional Association of State Universities and Colleges (STRASUC) Olympics 2024 held last October 18-27 at Palawan State University, Mindoro State University (MinSU) is currently hosting the three-day meeting of the State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association of Sport Directors (SCUAASD) for Regions IV-A and IV-B from December 16-18, 2024.


The meeting aims to evaluate the recently held STRASUC Olympics 2024, present the organization's financial report, and discuss the selection of players who will represent the region in the upcoming National SCUAA Games 2025.


Dr. Enya Marie D. Apostol, MinSU University President, graced the opening program yesterday, December 16, expressing her full support for sports development and collaboration among SUCs in the region.


MinSU is represented by Ms. Roselie T. Gonzales, Sports Director. Also present at the meeting are Associate Professor Glenda M. Dimaano, Secretary, and Sports Directors from other participating universities, including Batangas State University, Laguna State Polytechnic University, Occidental Mindoro State College, Marinduque State University, Romblon State University, University of Rizal System, Palawan State University, Southern Luzon State University, University of the Philippines – Los Baños, Western Philippines University, and Cavite State University.


The three-day activity serves as a platform for collaboration, evaluation, and strategic planning to further strengthen the region's athletic programs and prepare athletes for the national competition.


To learn about MinSU, please visit our website www.minsu.edu.ph


#MinSU #LIFTMINSU #UniversityofChoice #scuaasd #SDG4 #SDG17

𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐠𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐨 𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐫𝐮𝐩𝐨 𝐬𝐚 𝐒𝐆𝐀, 𝐧𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧


𝑪𝑨𝑴𝑷 𝑺𝑰𝑶𝑵𝑮𝑪𝑶, 𝑨𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒈, 𝑫𝑶𝑺, 𝑴𝒂𝒈𝒖𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒐 𝒅𝒆𝒍 𝑵𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒆 – Binawian ng buhay ang isang myembro ng armadong grupo matapos makipagbarilan sa 34th Infantry Battalion sa Barangay Mudseng, Kadayangan, SGA, BARMM madaling araw noong Lunes (December 16, 2024).


Sa impormasyon mula kay Lt. Col. Edgardo Batinay, 34IB Commanding Officer, planong maghasik ng gulo ang mga armadong kalalakihan sa Brgy. Mudseng sa nasabing lugar ng SGA BARMM.


"Habang nagsasagawa tayo ng mobile patrol, biglang nagpaputok ang mga armadong kalalakihan. Tumagal ng 20 minuto ang engkwentro na naging sanhi ng pagkasawi ng isang armadong indibidwal.", ayun kay Lt. Col. Batinay.


Nabawi ng mga kasundalohan ang isang Cal. 50 Sniper, isang M14 Rifle, tatlong Rifle Grenade, mga bala at magazine na ngayon ay nasa pangangalaga ng PNP. Iniimbestigahan naman ngayon ng pulisya ang insidente habang nakikipag-unayan kaagad ang awtoridad sa mga Barangay Officials para mabigyan ng disenteng libing ang nasawing armadong indibidwal.


Agad na pinuri ni Brig. Gen. Donald Gumiran, 602Bde Commander ang kasundalohan ng 34IB sa agarang pagtugon para hadlangan ang masamang balak ng mga armadong grupo.


"Napanatili natin ang katahimikan at kaayusan sa bahagi ng SGA BARMM dahil sa inyong mahusay na pagtupad sa mandato na protektahan ang mga sibilyan laban sa sumisira sa kapayapaan.", pahayag ni Brig. Gen. Gumiran.


Nanawagan naman si Maj. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, JTF Central at 6ID Commander laban sa mga armadong grupong nagbabalak manggulo at sirain ang kaayusan at kaunlaran na tinatamasa ng karamihan.


"Bukas ang aming mga pintuan para sa mga taong pipiliin na isuko ang kanilang mga armas. Ang hindi tutugon ay kahaharapin ang kamay ng batas at mananagot sa kanilang maling hakbangin. Ang JTF Central at 6ID ay nananatiling nakatuon sa pagpapanatili ng kapayapaan at seguridad sa rehiyon sa pamamagitan ng ating pagtutulungan at kooperasyon. Nagpapasalamat din ang buong JTF Central at 6ID sa ugnayan ng komunidad, Barangay Local Government Units at PNP sa agarang impormasyon at aksyon laban sa mga lawless elements sa nasabing lugar.", mensahe ni Maj. Gen. Nafarrete.


#kampilannews
#kakampisakapayapaan
#HukbongKatihanNgBagongPilipinas
#ServingthePeopleSecuringtheLand


𝗪𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲, 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝘁 https://tinyurl.com/2p9hm3ck

After 43 years of repose, Taal Volcano erupted on 12 January 2020 with plumes reaching 17 km above sea level. To investigate Taal's magma system before, during, and after the 2020 eruption, we performed detailed analyses of local seismic data using the amplitude source location (ASL) method to estimate sources of volcano-tectonic (VT) earthquakes and tremor.


Read full article here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S037702732400249X

Masaligan Battalion Clashes with NPA Remnants in Negros Occidental, Seizes Firearms and Supplies


The 79th Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army, engaged remnants of the Dismantled North Negros Front (NNF-D), a group of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA), in the hinterlands of Sitio Tauma, Brgy. Bandila, Toboso, Negros Occidental on December 13, 2024. The encounter, which lasted about 12 minutes, was a result of a tip from a concerned civilian about armed individuals involved in extortion and violence in the area.


During the clash, which involved roughly seven NPA fighters, the Masaligan troops seized several firearms, including an M16 assault rifle, a.38 revolver, magazines for various firearms, live ammunition, medical supplies, personal belongings, food, and subversive documents. No casualties were reported on the government side, though bloodstains were found leading toward the NPA's escape route.


Lt. Col. Calaoagan, commander of the Masaligan Battalion, praised the cooperation between the military and local communities in combating insurgency. He urged remaining NPA members to surrender and avail of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for a peaceful life, emphasizing the bleak future for those continuing with the insurgency.


79th Infantry "Masaligan" Battalion, 3ID, PA 


Read:  https://bit.ly/3ZYDv2H


#OneAFPOnePhilippines
#StrongAFPStrongPhilippines
#MatatagNaHukbongKatihan
#Army127
#CATEXKatihan
#KatihanKaisaSaKatatagan

Get a P50 off on shipping fee when you purchase any items with a min. amount of P500 pesos. Checkout na sa PalawanPay's Online Shops!

PROHIBITED ACTS DURING ELECTION PERIOD
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has set January 12 to June 11, 2025 as the election period pursuant to existing laws.
Here are the things not allowed specifically during the campaign period (February 11-May 10) and on Election Day (May 12):


• Appointment or hiring of new employees, creation of new positions, filling of new positions in a government office, agency, or instrumentality, whether national or local, including government-owned or controlled corporations, except upon prior authority of the commission;
• Promotion or giving of salary increases, remuneration, or privileges to any government official or employee, including those in government-owned or controlled corporations;
• Release, disbursement or expenditures of public funds, except those enumerated in Section 261 (v) of the OEC;
• Construction of public works, delivery of materials for public works except for projects or works exempted in Section 261 (v) of the OEC, and issuance of treasury warrants or similar devices.
*All these prohibited acts on certain calendars of activities and periods are stipulated under COMELEC Resolution 10999, which was issued on May 24, 2024.


https://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/2025-midterm-elections-what-are-the-prohibited-acts
https://comelec.gov.ph/?r=2025NLE/Resolutions/res10999
https://comelec.gov.ph/?r=References/RelatedLaws/ElectionLaws/SynchronizedNationalandLocal/RA7166#sec33
https://comelec.gov.ph/?r=References/RelatedLaws/Constitution/1987Constitution/Article9#9c
https://comelec.gov.ph/?r=References/RelatedLaws/RegistrationLaws/RA8189#sec5


Kung mayroong nakawan o kahit na anong pangyayari na kailangan ng tulong ng mga Kapulisan, tumawag agad sa numero ng Himpilan ng Pulisya ng Mamburao: 0998 598 5839
#SaBagongPilipinasAngGustongPulisLigtasKa
#ToServeandProtect
#BagongPilipinas

MGA CONGRESSMEN, NANINDIGAN SA PAGBAWAS NG BUDGET NG DEPED


NEWS | Pinanindigan ng Kamara ang desisyon ng Kongreso na bawasan ng P10 billion ang pondo ng Department of Education sa 2025 para sa computerization bunsod ng alegasyon ng maling pamamahala ng pondo.


Sinagot ni 1-Rider Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez, ang ilan sa kritisismo sa naturang hakbang.


Giit niya, hindi ito panggigipit ng pondo sa edukasyon, bagkus pagtiyak lang na magagamit ng tama ang pondo at may pananagutan.


"Secretary Angara may argue that education funding is sacrosanct, but Congress cannot keep throwing good money after bad. This is not about depriving education; it's about ensuring proper fund use and accountability," giit ni Gutierrez.


Bagamat nakakalungkot aniya na maraming minanang problema si DEPED Sec. Sonny Angara mula sa mga iskandalo ng nakaraang pamunuan, malinaw aniya ang nakasaad sa batas na ang mga hindi nagamit na pondo ay kailangan muna ma-account bago mapaglaanan ng bagong pondo.


"While it's unfortunate that Sec. Sonny inherited the problems and scandals left behind by his predecessor, Vice President Sara Duterte, Sec. Angara knows that the law is clear: unused funds must be accounted for before new allocations can be made. Now that he's education secretary, he should focus on fixing DepEd's internal mess instead of crying foul about budget decisions," saad pa niya


Tinukoy ng mambabatas ang mababang track record ng DEPED, batay sa ulat ng Commission on Audit's (COA) kung saan lumabas na P2.075 billion lang ng P11.36 billion 2023 budget para sa ICT equipment ang nagamit.


"This isn't just inefficiency—it's negligence," diin ni Gutierrez.


Dagdag pa niya, na ang kabiguan ng DEPED na tuparin ang mandato nito ay sapat na katwiran sa desisyon ng Kongreso na i-reallocate ang pondo.


Tinukoy pa niya na mismong si DepEd ICT Director Ferdinand Pitagan ay inamin sa budget hearing noong Setyembre na hindi pa rin na-deliver ang 12,022 laptops para sa teachers at ang 7,558 para sa non-teaching personnel.


"The excuses are wearing thin. We know it's extremely difficult for Secretary Angara to defend DepEd's lack of action when the Philippines is already at rock bottom in global education rankings. A teacher-to-computer ratio of 30:1 is unacceptable and we have VP Sara to blame for it." sabi pa ng party-list solon


Pumang-76 ang Pilipinas sa kabuuang 81 bansa sa reading at mathematics sa 2023 PISA assessment, bagay na pinalala ng delay sa delivery ng ICT resources ayon sa mga analyst.


Magsisilbi aniya ito na wake-up call sa DepEd na gawing prayoridad ang epektibong pamamahala kaugnay sa malaking pondo.

Remember when Jimmy Butler charged players $20 for a cup of coffee in his NBA Bubble hotel room?


4 years later, BigFace Coffee now has an official store in Miami. And Butler worked hard to get here.


He traveled to coffee farms in Costa Rica to study the coffee business.


He once paid $65,000 for over 1,000 pounds of premium El Salvador coffee beans.


And in October 2021, BigFace Coffee was officially launched as an online coffee store.


In 2022, BigFace opened pop-up shops in New York City and Miami. They even became the official coffee brand sponsor for tennis players at the ATP Masters and WTA 1000 events.


BigFace then had pop-ups at the Miami Grand Prix and the 2023 NBA Finals.


And on December 6, 2024, Butler opened his very first brick-and-mortar BigFace Coffee Shop in Miami's Design District.


And while Butler charged his millionaire teammates $20/cup in 2020 - you won't have to dish out that much at his store.


Prices range from $4 for an espresso, to $10 for a pour-over.


But Butler has said he's studying specialty coffee, and his goal one day is to craft a specialty brew that'd be worth $100 a cup.


Way back in 2021, Butler told CNBC that after his NBA career is over, he'll be relaxing in Miami at one of his coffee shops.


Some might've thought he was joking.


But a few years later, a dream that started in a hotel room is now, officially, a reality.

How to grow garlic indoors and care for it
1. Select Bulbs: Choose firm, healthy garlic bulbs suited for indoor growing.
2. Prepare Containers: Use deep pots with drainage holes and fill with well-draining soil or compost.
3. Plant Cloves: Break bulbs into cloves, plant pointed end up, 1-2 inches deep, 4-6 inches apart.
4. Provide Sunlight: Place in a sunny spot with 6-8 hours of sunlight daily, maintaining consistent temperature.
5. Water and Fertilize: Keep soil moist, fertilize every 2-3 weeks with balanced fertilizer.
6. Mulch and Weed: Apply organic mulch to retain moisture, remove weeds regularly.
7. Monitor Growth: Watch for green shoots, pests, and diseases, addressing issues promptly.
8. Harvest: Harvest when foliage yellows, cure bulbs for 2-3 weeks, then store in a cool, dry place.
By following these steps, you can easily grow garlic indoors and enjoy fresh, flavorful bulbs year-roun


#highlightseveryone
#everyone

FLAVOURS OF HOME
Celebrate the magic of Paskong Pinoy on December 24 and 25 for a memorable and nostalgic Noche Buena Feast that captures the spirit of Filipino traditions. With a live acoustic serenade by the pool.


Treat your family of 5-6 for just P3,999 nett, and indulge in a delightful spread of all-time festive favourites.
Available from 6 PM onwards.


***RESERVATION IS REQUIRED


To make a reservation:
Send us a message on Messenger, call (032) 256 5000 | +63 998 864 6021 (Text/Viber)


#montebellovillahotel #montebellohotel #cebucity #fyp #foryou #foryoupage

Celebrate Cebu's Talent and Traditions This Simbang Gabi!


Join us for the Simbang Gabi Breakfast Buffet from December 16–24, 2024, and experience the magic of Christmas with the Sudtonggan String Orchestra performing live on December 16 and 24. A World Championships of Performing Arts qualifier, they will fill the air with holiday melodies as you enjoy a festive feast.


📅 Breakfast Buffet: December 16–24, 2024
🎶 Orchestra Performance: December 16 & 24, 2024
⏰ 5:30 AM – 10:00 AM
📞 Book your spot now: 0953 804 3125


Celebrate the season with great food, heartwarming music, and Cebu's vibrant culture!


#SimbangGabi #BreakfastBuffet  #HaroldsHotelCebu #SudtongganStringOrchestra #HCafe

[size=78%]The results of the 2024 Bar Examinations were announced on December 13, 2024, by the Supreme Court of the Philippines, revealing a total of 3,962 successful examinees out of 10,490 candidates. This marks a passing rate of **37.84%**, an increase from last year's rate of **33.77%**. The examinations took place over three days—September 8, 11, and 15—across 13 testing centers nationwide.[/size]


### Top Performers


The standout performer this year was **Kyle Christian Gorrero Tutor** from the **University of the Philippines**, who topped the exam with an impressive score of **85.77%**. The top ten passers are as follows:


1. **Kyle Christian Gorrero Tutor** - University of the Philippines (85.77%)
2. **Maria Christina S. Aniceto** - Ateneo de Manila University (85.54%)
3. **Gerald C. Roxas** - Angeles University Foundation (84.36%)
4. **John Philippe E. Chua** - University of the Philippines (84.28%)
5. **Jet Ryan P. Nicolas** - University of the Philippines (84.27%)
6. **Maria Lovelyn Joyce Quebrar** - University of the Philippines (84.06%)
7. **Kyle Andrew P. Isaguirre** - Ateneo de Manila University (83.91%)
8. **Joji S. Macadine** - University of Mindanao (83.75%)
9. **Gregorio Jose II Torres** - Western Mindanao State University (83.59%)
10. **Raya B. Villacorta** - San Beda University (83.47%)


### Law Schools Performance


In terms of school performance, **Ateneo de Manila University** emerged as the top-performing law school for both first-time takers and overall performance among institutions with more than 100 examinees:


- **Ateneo de Manila University**
  - First-time takers: 96.36% passing rate (159/165)
  - Overall: 96.02% passing rate (169/176)


Following Ateneo in overall performance were:


- **University of the Philippines**: 90.51% (229/253)
- **San Beda University**: 89.73% (131/146)
- **University of Santo Tomas - Manila**: 80.35% (139/173)
- **University of San Carlos**: 79.05% (117/148)


The Supreme Court categorized schools based on their number of examinees to ensure fair comparisons, recognizing outstanding institutions in various classifications.


### Examination Details


This year's Bar exams were conducted digitally for the third consecutive time and covered six core subjects including Political and Public International Law, Commercial and Taxation Laws, Civil Law, Labor Law and Social Legislation, Criminal Law, and Remedial Law with Legal and Judicial Ethics.


The oath-taking ceremony for successful examinees is scheduled for January 24, 2025.


Overall, the results reflect a positive trend in Bar exam performance compared to previous years, highlighting the dedication and hard work of both students and educational institutions in preparing future legal professionals in the Philippines.




[1] LIST: Top-performing law schools in 2024 Bar exams | Philstar.comwww.philstar.com › 2024/12/13 › list-to... https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/12/13/2407124/list-top-performing-law-schools-2024-bar-exams
[2] LIST: 2024 Bar exam topnotchers | GMA News Online https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/929908/list-2024-bar-exam-topnotchers/story/
[3] 3,962 pass 2024 Bar exams https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/12/13/2404306/3962-pass-2024-bar-exams
[4] 3962 pass the 2024 Bar exams - GMA Network https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/929892/3-962-pass-the-2024-bar-exams/story/
[5] UP Law grad tops 2024 Bar exams | ABS-CBN News https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2024/12/13/up-law-grad-tops-2024-bar-exams-1350
[6] FULL LIST: 2024 Bar exams passers https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/12/13/2404307/full-list-2024-bar-exams-passers
[7] results of the 2024 bar examinations https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/2024_List_of_Passers.htm
[8] FULL LIST: 2024 Bar exam passers | ABS-CBN News https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2024/12/13/full-list-2024-bar-exam-passers-1457
[9] Bar exam 2024 results: Top 10 performers - Inquirer.netnewsinfo.inquirer.net › bar-exams-2024-... https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2015232/bar-exams-2024-top-10-performers

As the internet landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of high-quality web copy in driving online success. The demand for skilled SEO copywriters has led to a surge in professionals offering their services, but not all are created equal. To help businesses navigate this complex landscape, we have identified 10 key expectations to look for when hiring an SEO copywriter.


The internet's rapid evolution has created a challenging environment for businesses, with a constant influx of new information, misinformation, and disinformation. However, this change has also highlighted the value of quality web copy, leading to a growing demand for skilled SEO copywriters. With so many professionals offering their services, it is essential for businesses to know what to expect from their SEO copywriter.


1. **Understanding of SEO fundamentals**: A good SEO copywriter should have a solid grasp of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) principles, including the importance of relevance and importance in ranking. They should be able to explain how they will optimize content for target keywords and phrases.


2. **Proven experience**: Look for an SEO copywriter with a track record of success in improving website rankings. Ask to see examples of their previous work and the results they have achieved.


3. **Keyword strategy**: A skilled SEO copywriter should be able to advise on the optimal number of keywords to target per page, typically no more than 2-3. They should also be able to explain how they will use these keywords to improve the site's relevance and readability.


4. **Clear agreement on keyword research**: Establish who will be responsible for conducting keyword research and analysis. This may be the SEO copywriter or someone within the business. Ensure that the agreement is clear to avoid confusion and additional costs.


5. **Keyword specificity**: Expect the SEO copywriter to recommend targeting specific keyword phrases rather than broad, generic terms. This approach can help improve the site's relevance and reduce competition.


6. **Word count and page structure**: Agree on the optimal word count per page and the structure of the content. A good SEO copywriter should be able to balance the need for informative content with the need for concise and readable copy.


7. **Density targets and measurement**: A skilled SEO copywriter should be able to discuss density measures, which refer to the frequency of keyword phrases on a page. They should aim for a density of around 5% for primary keywords and 3-5% for secondary keywords.


8. **Keyword placement**: While the impact of keyword placement is still debated, a good SEO copywriter should be aware of the potential benefits of placing keywords in headings, bolded text, and links, particularly towards the beginning of the page.


9. **Site structure and linking**: A well-structured website with clear text links between pages can improve search engine indexing. The SEO copywriter should be able to advise on creating a hierarchical structure and linking strategy to facilitate this.


10. **Realistic expectations**: Be wary of SEO copywriters who promise overnight success or dramatic ranking improvements. A good SEO copywriter should be able to explain the process and timeline for improving website rankings and provide a clear plan for achieving this.


By understanding these 10 key expectations, businesses can make informed decisions when hiring an SEO copywriter and improve their chances of success in the competitive online landscape. A skilled SEO copywriter can play a valuable role in driving online success, but it is essential to choose wisely and have clear expectations from the outset.


The importance of high-quality web copy has never been more critical, with the internet evolving at an unprecedented pace. As businesses strive to stay ahead of the competition, they must recognize the value of skilled SEO copywriters in driving online success. By understanding the 10 key expectations outlined above, businesses can navigate the complex landscape of SEO copywriting and make informed decisions when hiring a professional to improve their website's ranking and online visibility.

President Marcos Leads 24th Gawad Kalasag National Awarding Ceremony, Honors Builders of Disaster Resilience


President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. yesterday presided over the national awarding ceremony for the 24th Gawad Kalasag, which recognizes stakeholders dedicated to promoting disaster resilience.


"Today, we honor and give recognition to individuals, LGUs, academic institutions, medical facilities, and other organizations who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment towards achieving resilience. This 24th Gawad Kalasag Seal and special awards for excellence in disaster risk reduction and management and humanitarian assistance highlight that building resilience is not the task of one single entity, but a collective effort that requires a whole-of-government, indeed a whole-of-society approach," President Marcos stated.


The President commended the recipients for going "above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of their respective communities." Among them were courageous students John Niño Suarez and Emer Jhune Donaire, who bravely faced strong currents to rescue a townmate at the Lawis Marine Sanctuary Park in Poro, Cebu last March, despite lacking formal water rescue training. Rafael Valencia was also recognized for pioneering new technologies in disaster preparedness, along with organizations that advocate for national resilience.


"Dahil dito, kaisa ko ang sambayanang Pilipino sa pagsasaludo at pagkikilala sa inyong mahahalagang kontribusyon at tagumpay. Maraming salamat sa inyong sakripisyo, sa inyong pagsusumikap, at sa inyong dedikasyon (Because of this, I am one with the Filipino people in honoring and acknowledging your vital contributions and successes. Thank you very much for your sacrifices, your hard work, and your dedication)," the President noted.


Highlighting the necessity for continuous improvement in the country's disaster risk reduction and management system, Marcos stated that the government is consolidating technologies and best practices to build a stronger community. He also mentioned the recent enactment of the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which mandates the establishment of designated evacuation centers in every city and municipality nationwide, providing secure temporary shelter for displaced Filipinos during calamities.


Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. expressed gratitude to President Marcos "for his leadership in proactively anticipating and managing both natural and man-made calamities." He cited the activation of the Task Force El Niño as an example of early intervention, which prepares institutions for slow-onset calamities without creating permanent infrastructures irrelevant to immediate disaster response.


Teodoro also acknowledged local government units for their leadership in tailoring disaster risk reduction measures to meet the unique needs of their communities, down to the barangay level, and praised civic organizations for their role in strengthening resilience under the theme "Bagong Pilipinas."


The winners of the Gawad Kalasag awards are:


(Local DRRM Councils and Offices Category)
- Best Province: Province of Occidental Mindoro 
- Best Municipality (1st to 3rd Class Category): Municipality of Malungon, Province of Sarangani 
- Best Municipality (4th to 6th Class Category): Municipality of Cagwait, Province of Surigao Del Sur 
- Best Highly Urbanized City: City of Caloocan 
- Best Component City: City of Tacurong, Province of Sultan Kudarat 
- Best Independent Component City: Santiago City, Province of Isabela 


(First Placers and Hall of Fame Awardees in the Special Awards Category)
- Alasasin Elementary School (Public Elementary School Category) 
- Federation Iloilo Fire Brigade, Inc. (Volunteer Organization Category) 
- Socio Pastoral Action Center Foundation, Inc. (Civil Society Organization Category) 
- SN Aboitiz-Power Magat, Inc. (Private Organization Category) 


(Other First Placers in the Special Awards Category)
- Camp Tinio National High School (Public High School Category) 
- University of Cordilleras (Higher Education Institution Category) 
- Catarman Emergency Response Unit (Government Emergency Management Systems and Response Team Category) 
- City of Ilagan Medical Center (Local Government Hospital Category) 
- Cagayan Valley Medical Center (National Government Hospital Category) 


(Special Awards)
- Heroic Act: John Niño Suarez and Emer Jhune Donaire for their bravery in saving a drowning victim. 
- Special Recognition (Individual Category): Rafael "Paeng" C. Valencia for innovative contributions to climate change and DRRM policies. 
- Special Recognition (Group Category): 525th Combat Engineer Battalion for their rapid response to disasters and humanitarian crises.


https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DmAJa2Cw8/?mibextid=WC7FNe


PHOTO COURTESY: Presidential Communications Office

(Pakisalin sa Filipino para MAS MASAKIT)


They're FOOLING us again
on PhilHealth, education


By Jarius Bondoc – Dec. 13, 2024


We're dumb – all 119 million of us Filipinos. That's why the President, VP, Cabinet, senators, congressmen kick us around.


Example 1 is what they did with the 2025 national budget:


The President proposed P825-billion public works. Congress added P289 billion last Wednesday. Total: P1.114 trillion.


Most will go to flood controls. As usual, each lawmaker will pocket billions of pesos from fake river dredging. Plus 70-percent kickbacks from highway rock nettings and cat's eyes.


The extra money for public works came from education, science and technology, health, and other basics.


Dept. of Education got P737 billion, P12 billion less than originally proposed. State colleges and universities got P122 billion, P30 billion less. Remainder: P859 billion.


Science and technology got only P29 billion, instead of the proposed P49 billion.


Those violate the Constitution. Article XIV, Section 5 says, "The State shall assign highest budgetary priority to education."


Section 10 further prioritizes "research and development ... and S&T education, training, and services."


We allow breaches of fundamental law. For a decade now our grade schoolers are dumbest in Math, Science, and Reading Comprehension among 85 countries.


Our leaders don't care – and we accept it.

Example 2 is Congress' zero budget for our PhilHealth:


The President allotted P74 billion: P53 billion from sin taxes on alcohol, tobacco, sugary goods; and P21-billion subsidy.


Under the 2018 Universal Health Care Act (UHCA), sin taxes automatically must be given to PhilHealth. That's the "indirect" contribution of indigents and low-income earners. It's added to "direct" contributions from mid- and high-income earners.


The PhilHealth board forcibly raised direct contributions, P500 up to P5,000 per month, starting January 2024. That's supposedly so members can enjoy more benefits. The board consists of the health, labor, social welfare and finance secretaries, and other presidential appointees.


But Congress deemed that our PhilHealth has so much money. "If I'm not mistaken, it has P600-billion 'reserves', deposited for interest lower than inflation rate so government is losing money," said Grace Poe, head of the Senate finance committee.


PhilHealth spokesman Dr. Israel Pargas gave another figure – P431 billion – when interviewed by Ted Failon and Czarina Guevarra on Radyo5 yesterday. It's not government money. It's mostly members' direct contributions since 1995, when PhilHealth was put up. Indirect contributions began only in 2019.


Reserves are not excess funds, it's seed capital, like in SSS or GSIS, which should wisely be invested so PhilHealth can last for generations.


But Finance Sec. Ralph Recto, a PhilHealth director, treated it as excess to justify diverting P90 billion from PhilHealth to the Treasury. Chairman Health Sec. Teodoro Herbosa and president Emmanuel Ledesma colluded.


Now Congress says getting zero allocation is PhilHealth's punishment for giving P90 billion to the Treasury.


We PhilHealth members are thrice slapped on the back of the head. First, by the PhilHealth board in extracting more contributions from us. Second, from their theft of our P90 billion which they labeled as excess. Third, by Congress withholding contributions from sin taxes and subsidy.


They broke the UHCA which says extra funds must be used solely for PhilHealth benefits and to reduce direct contributions.


By this year PhilHealth must cover all health needs including blood works, lab tests, x-rays, and consultations.


The PhilHealth board and president can boast of only additional benefits like kidney transplants and heart attack packages. How many of us 119 million Filipinos, especially youths aged 1 to 35, 65 percent of us, need transplants or suffer heart attacks? At least they gave us dental care for bad breath.


Like in the 2024 budget law Congress again violated the Constitution in the 2025 version. Article VI, Section 25(2) forbids budget acts from amending other acts.


Section 29(3) further requires "all money collected on any tax levied for a special purpose to be treated as a special fund and paid out for such purpose only" – like sin taxes for UHCA.


Bongbong Marcos Jr. already allowed such breaches in 2024. VP Sara Duterte kept silent until she had a falling out with BBM and the Congress supermajority. That's why Congress repeated it for 2025.


Only a few doctors, nurses, lawyers, economists, workers, and columnists spoke up – voices in the wilderness.


Example 3 is "ayuda" for 2025 electioneering:


Sen. Imee Marcos said the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program of her cousin Speaker Martin Romualdez will be abolished. But Congress approved P26-billion AKAP – P5 billion for senators, P21 billion for congressmen.


AKAP will be doled by reelectionist politicos. Patay-gutom, we'll elbow each other out for a fistful of our own money.


"Dishonest political leadership," the Alyansa ng Nagkaka-Isang Mamamayan denounced the "deceit". ANIM consists of retired generals, bishops and priests, youths, women, professionals, and NGOs – a fraction of us 119 million.


Is going to the Supreme Court the recourse? Aren't justices scared that it'll take only 106 congressional signatures to impeach them? Didn't they just deny Wednesday a petition to recount votes in one small city in Batangas to show massive cheating in the 2022 election?

BREAKING NEWS! NBA Expresses Interest in Kai Sotto! FIBA and NBA Launch New League with Asia Included


NBA Now Reaching Out to Kai Sotto! New League by FIBA and NBA Includes Asia!


In a significant development for international basketball, Kai Sotto, the Filipino basketball prodigy, is now attracting more attention than ever, as the NBA has begun reaching out to him amid the creation of a new league that is set to revolutionize the game of basketball. This new league, a collaboration between FIBA (the International Basketball Federation) and the NBA, promises to include teams from Asia, and it is expected to play a critical role in discovering and nurturing young talent from around the world, including Kai Sotto.
The New FIBA-NBA League
The new league, which is set to bridge the gap between the NBA and the rest of the world, is expected to have a significant impact on the development of international players. By involving countries from Asia, Europe, and other regions, the league will allow players from different continents to compete at a high level, gaining valuable experience that could prepare them for the NBA.


The partnership between FIBA and the NBA marks a major milestone in the globalization of basketball, bringing together the best of both organizations to offer greater opportunities for players from countries like the Philippines, where basketball is one of the most popular sports. This collaboration ensures that players from Asia, and particularly Southeast Asia, will now have direct exposure to the NBA's scouting network, potentially increasing their chances of being drafted into the league.
Why Kai Sotto Is a Key Figure
Kai Sotto, standing at an impressive 7 feet 3 inchesand known for his impressive basketball skills, is seen as a key figure in this new league. His talent has been widely recognized, especially during his standout performances in international competitions like the FIBA B1, and NBA scouts are now closely following his development. Sotto's rise in the basketball world, both in the Philippines and internationally, makes him one of the most promising young talents in Asia.
With this new FIBA-NBA league, Sotto's exposure to NBA scouts will only increase, and he may find himself being more frequently evaluated by NBA teams. His performance in the league could also be a major deciding factor in whether he is drafted into the NBA in the near future. The combination of Sotto's impressive size, skill set, and strong basketball IQ has made him a potential high-caliber player for any NBA team looking to add a versatile big man to their roster.
What the New League Means for Kai Sotto
The new FIBA-NBA league's inclusion of Asian teams will provide an incredible opportunity for Kai Sotto to elevate his game further. This league is expected to offer a platform for players like Sotto to showcase their skills on an even larger stage, playing against some of the best talents from across the globe. Given his recent strong showings on the international stage, this league may provide the perfect environment for Sotto to continue his development while gaining exposure to NBA scouts.


Here are some key benefits for Kai Sotto:
Exposure to NBA Scouts
    1. : The new league will be closely monitored by NBA scouts and executives, creating more opportunities for Sotto to get noticed. His performances in this league could play a crucial role in whether he is eventually drafted by an NBA team.
Improved Competition
    1. : The level of competition in this new league will be on par with that of professional leagues in Europe and the United States. By facing off against talented players from Asia and other regions, Sotto can refine his skills, particularly in areas like physicality, defense, and shooting range, which are essential for success in the NBA.
Building a Global Brand
    1. : Playing in a global league like this will also allow Sotto to build his personal brand, increasing his visibility and marketability both in the Philippines and abroad. With basketball's popularity growing in Asia, Sotto's involvement in such a prestigious league would elevate his stature as an international basketball star.


Path to the NBA
1. : Ultimately, this league could be the ideal stepping stone for Sotto to fulfill his dream of playing in the NBA. Many players have used international competitions and development leagues to showcase their abilities, and with the added support of the NBA and FIBA, Sotto's chances of making it to the NBA grow exponentially.
The Growing Popularity of Basketball in Asia
Basketball has been rapidly growing in popularity across Asia, particularly in the Philippines, where the sport is deeply ingrained in the culture. As the NBA expands its reach into this region, the creation of a league that fosters international talent could further enhance the sport's presence in Asia.
The FIBA-NBA league's inclusion of Asian teams also highlights the growing importance of Asia in the global basketball landscape. The Philippines, China, Japan, and other countries in the region have produced a wealth of basketball talent over the years, and this new league aims to provide these players with a platform to compete at a higher level. For young athletes like Kai Sotto, this league could represent the next step in their development, offering them the chance to eventually play in the NBA.
The Future of Kai Sotto's Career
Kai Sotto's future looks brighter than ever, especially with the creation of this new FIBA-NBA league. The collaboration between two of the most influential organizations in global basketball will provide Sotto with more opportunities to showcase his abilities to NBA scouts and executives.
If he continues to develop his game in the new league, Sotto could solidify his spot as one of the top international prospects. As a skilled big man with the potential to shoot from outside and protect the rim, his skill set aligns with the modern NBA's demand for versatile, two-way players. The global exposure provided by the FIBA-NBA league could be the perfect environment for Sotto to hone his craft and take his game to the next level.


Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
Kai Sotto's rise as one of Asia's most promising basketball players is far from over. With the NBA now reaching out to him and the exciting prospect of the FIBA-NBA league including Asian teams, Sotto is poised to take the next step in his basketball journey. This new league will undoubtedly provide him with invaluable exposure, competition, and opportunities to showcase his skills on a global stage.
As the NBA continues to expand its reach into Asia, Kai Sotto's talent is being recognized on a larger scale, and his future in the league is becoming more likely. If he continues to develop and play at a high level, we could soon see Kai Sotto making his mark in the NBA, fulfilling his dream of becoming a global basketball star. The future of Filipino basketball looks brighter than ever, and Kai Sotto is at the forefront of this exciting new era.


Credit to the owner

Troops of 20th Infantry Battalion Clash with SRGU in Northern Samar, Seize Weapons and Subversive Materials


The troops from the 20th Infantry Battalion (20IB) clashed with members of the SRGU, SRC ARCTIC, led by Pilo Ramis (@Dos/Trisha), in Brgy. Manering, Catubig, Northern Samar on December 12, 2024, after receiving information from concerned citizens about extortion activities. The encounter lasted 15 minutes, with the terrorists withdrawing southeast.


The troops seized one M653 and one Cal. 5.56mm assault rifle, along with war materiel and subversive documents. Lt. Col. Richard P. Villaflor, Commanding Officer of 20IB, thanked the local community for their support, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in maintaining peace and security in the region.


20th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army 


Read:  https://bit.ly/49RXRzb


#OneAFPOnePhilippines
#StrongAFPStrongPhilippines
#MatatagNaHukbongKatihan
#Army127
#CATEXKatihan
#KatihanKaisaSaKatatagan

Celebrate the magic of Christmas with an unforgettable dinner at Aka, Crimson Mactan's highly acclaimed Japanese restaurant.


Indulge in the authentic flavors of Japan, crafted with precision and passion by our talented chefs. From exquisite nigiri to heartwarming holiday specialties, every dish promises to make your celebration truly special. 🎌


🎁 This season, let Aka treat you to a dining experience that's as magical as the holidays themselves. ✨ Reserve your table now at https://bit.ly/festivecelebration2024 and savor the joy of authentic Japanese cuisine. 🥂🍶 


#AkaJapaneseDining #CrimsonMactan #ChristmasAtAka #akamactan

On 12 December 2024, PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga, together with Deputy Directors General Vivian S. Santos, Maria Veronica F. Magsino, and Anidelle Joy M. Alguso graced the 25th Toyota Special Economic Zone (TSEZ) Regular Update to PEZA held at Kingsford Hotel, Pasay City.


Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) President Masatoshi Shindoh and the representatives of TSEZ locators, and the Toyota Group's Export Suppliers delivered performance updates of their respective operations, shared their bright company outlook for 2025, and expressed gratitude to PEZA for the agency's strong and continuous support.


The companies also laid out their concerns on their export operations and logistics. Among the concerns raised were CREATE MORE incentives, clarification on VAT, digitalization on processes, and request for PEZA to support TMP's advocacies with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).


Director General Panga reassured TMP and TSEZ locators as well as their suppliers of PEZA's continued support to their investment and business endeavors for years to come.  He likewise encouraged the Toyota Group and their suppliers to take advantage of the most generous tax regime in ASEAN and help in our quest to attract more automotive investors in the Philippines.


"This approach by TMP of bringing in their supply chain to the Philippines exemplifies the thrust of PEZA in encouraging manufacturers to consolidate their allied down stream partners into our zones," noted the PEZA Chief.


As of November 2024, TMP and other locators in TSEZ already injected more than PhP 18 Billion worth of investments and hired above 3,000 workers.


#PEZA # ToyotaMotor #Automotive

Finance Secretary and Social Security Commission (SSC) Chairperson Ralph G. Recto administered the oath of office of the Social Security System's (SSS) newly-appointed Acting President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph Montes De Claro on December 10, 2024.


SSS is among the government financial institutions (GFIs) being overseen by the Department of Finance (DOF).


Additionally, Atty. Alemar Isidro Mosquito was sworn in as Director IV of the DOF.

download the file at
https://bibleverses.link/index.php/s/JNm35DFXraTrB4o

BULKANG KANLAON
Buod ng 24 oras na pagmamanman
10 Disyembre 2024 alas-12 ng umaga


#KanlaonVolcano


Filipino:
https://phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/volcano-hazard/volcano-bulletin2/kanlaon-volcano/28595-bulkang-kanlaon-buod-ng-24-oras-na-pagmamanman-10-disyembre-2024-alas-12-ng-umaga


English:
https://phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/volcano-hazard/volcano-bulletin2/kanlaon-volcano/28597-kanlaon-volcano-summary-of-24hr-observation-10-december-2024-12-00-am


Volcano: Kanlaon
Alert Level: 3
Status Alert Level: Mataas na aktibidad
Eruption: 1 pagsabog (3 minuto at 55 segundo ang haba)
Activity: 1 Pyroclastic Density Currents (humigit-kumulang 2 hanggang 3.4 kilometrong pagdausdos mula sa crater)
Volcanic Earthquake: 20 volcanic earthquakes
Sulfur Dioxide Flux(SO2): 1669 tonelada / araw (09 Disyembre 2024, bago ang pagsabog)
Plume (Steaming): 4000 metrong taas eruption column;  Malakas na pagsingaw; napadpad sa kanluran at timog-timog kanluran
Ground Deformation: Pamamaga ng bulkan

-What are the most populated towns of Bohol?
Tagbilaran City - 104,976
Ubay - 81,799
Talibon – 71,272
Dauis - 52,492
Inabanga – 48,534
Tubigon – 47,886
Loon – 44,224
-What are the least populated towns of Bohol?
SIkatuna - 6,906
Corella – 9,479
psa.gov.ph


Loon 67 Barangays
Inabanga 50 Barangays
Ubay 44 Barangays
Sikatuna 10 Barangays
Corella 8 Barangays

𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗼𝘀 𝗝𝗿. 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝘀 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗟𝗮𝘄 𝗼𝗻 𝗩𝗔𝗧 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗡𝗼𝗻-𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀


President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act (R.A.) 12079, known as the "VAT Refund for Non-Resident Tourists," during a ceremonial signing held today, December 9, at Malacañan Palace.


In his speech, the President emphasized the significance of the law, stating that "shopping has become an essential part of the travel experience." He noted that in 2023, the Philippine tourism sector played a crucial role in the nation's economic recovery, contributing an impressive 8.6 percent to the GDP. "Within this significant share, shopping emerged as the second largest expenditure for inbound tourists. With this in mind, we are introducing the VAT refund program for non-resident tourists—designed not only to stimulate more spending but to promote the Philippines as a premier global shopping destination," the President said.


"This initiative opens a new chapter in our tourism landscape, allowing the country to compete with other tourism markets that attract tourists who are eager to take home authentic, high-quality Filipino products," he added.


The President highlighted the country's unique handcrafted items, saying: "Our signature products such as the Marikina shoes, the intricate handwoven textiles from the northern provinces, [and] the timeless craftsmanship of Filipino barongs all stand to benefit from this measure. These products tell our stories, and now, with the VAT refund, they will be able to be more accessible to global consumers, elevating once again our stature in the global market."


With a projected 30 percent surge in tourist spending, he noted the benefits for both large-scale industries and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which are vital to the local economy. "Tourists who have a positive shopping experience are more likely to return—with their friends and their families—supporting our goal to become a premier shopping destination in Southeast Asia," he said.


The President concluded by urging the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to develop Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) that will make the law "simple, accessible, and culturally inclusive."


Witnessing the signing were Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero, House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Senators, Members of the House of Representatives, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Cabinet Secretaries, and representatives from the tourism, agriculture, and education sectors.


R.A. 12079 harmonizes Senate Bill No. 2415 and House Bill No. 7292. During the same ceremony, the President also signed two other landmark legislations: the Amendments to the Agricultural Tariffication Act and the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-being Promotion Act.


#LoveThePhilippines #BagongPilipinas

In Dostoevsky's The Idiot, Prince Myshkin—a character of radical innocence and compassion—navigates a society driven by greed, vanity, and power. His sincere kindness and moral purity contrast starkly with the cynicism around him, making him appear foolish. Today, in a world obsessed with wealth, social status, and image, Myshkin's struggles feel strikingly relevant. The tension between authenticity and societal expectations echoes in the modern era, where empathy is often mistaken for weakness.


Myshkin's moral duty—remaining true to his principles despite ridicule—parallels the challenges faced by those who prioritize integrity over personal gain. In our society, where digital personas are curated for approval, living authentically can be an act of quiet rebellion. The novel's themes of mental health, alienation, and the dehumanizing effects of modernity also resonate deeply, highlighting the enduring struggle to find meaning in a fractured world.


P.S. In a world that values appearances over authenticity, he was different. He didn't chase power, didn't seek approval, and didn't mask his vulnerability. They called him naïve, the way they mock kindness as if it's weakness. But when the masks of those around him began to crack, he remained steady—offering compassion even when others offered cruelty.


He saw through the pretense, the glittering facades, and the desperate need to be seen as someone. And yet, he stayed true, refusing to bend to the expectations that hollowed out others. In their rush to win, they lost themselves; in his refusal to play the game, he found peace.


It wasn't that he didn't suffer—he did, deeply—but he chose suffering with integrity over success without a soul. He was the fool who saw clearly, the outcast who offered grace. And while the world moved on, faster and colder, a few paused to remember that kindness, too, is strength. Perhaps, in the end, it is the "idiot" who truly understands what it means to be human. E.V. #outsiders #Dostoevsky


"Beauty will save the world" #Dostoevsky

Welcome to MCIA!


Please be advised that dissemination of false information of any threat relating to bombs or explosives is a violation of PD 1727 and is punishable by Five(5) years imprisonment or P40,000 fine or both.


For departing passengers, powerbanks should be in the carry-on baggage. Liquids, aerosols, and gels should not be more than 100 mL.


Share your feedback and experience as a passenger by clicking this link: bit.ly/3LLSNjo

"𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐬: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐅𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐬"


𝐏𝐂𝐎𝐋 𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐀 𝐇𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐀 𝐆𝐔𝐙𝐌𝐀𝐍, a distinguished officer and current Commandant of Cadets, exemplifies dedication, discipline, and service to the nation. Born on June 17, 1973, in the picturesque city of Naga, Camarines Sur, she has risen through the ranks with a combination of hard work, academic excellence, and an unyielding commitment to the values of the PNP.
PCOL GUZMAN began her academic journey with a degree in Political Science, which laid a strong foundation for her understanding of governance and public administration. Her journey in law enforcement began with her entry into the prestigious Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA), where she became the 1st Female Company Commander, and graduated as a proud member of 𝐏𝐍𝐏𝐀 "𝐊𝐀𝐀𝐆𝐀𝐏𝐀𝐘" 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝟏𝟗𝟗𝟔. She further honed her leadership and administrative skills by earning a Master's in Public Administration, a qualification that complements her responsibilities in the police force. Over the years, her dedication to duty and exemplary performance in various roles have cemented her reputation as a trailblazer in the police force.
As the Commandant of Cadets, PCOL GUZMAN is entrusted with the critical responsibility of molding future leaders of the PNP. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to instill discipline, integrity, and service-oriented values among cadets, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges of modern policing.
Behind PCOL Guzman's professional accomplishments is a supportive family that serves as her foundation. She is married to PBGEN BENIGNO L GUZMAN, whose unwavering encouragement has been instrumental in her career. Together, they have raised three accomplished children: Krishtine Mae, Kenneth Ian, and Khevin Ivan Guzman.
PCOL GUZMAN's journey from Naga City to becoming the first ever female Commandant of Cadets of the PNPA is an inspiring story of perseverance and excellence. As a leader and role model, her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring public servants, proving that with dedication and the right values, one can achieve great things for both family and country.

Speaker says law will give big relief to students in disaster areas


Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez today welcomed the signing into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the bill that seeks to provide for a moratorium on the payment of student loans during disasters and other emergencies.


"The moratorium will be a big relief to students, both in public and private schools, including those run by local government units, in times of calamities, disasters, and similar emergency situations," he said.


The leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives said the envisioned freeze on student loan payments would relieve students and their families of an added financial burden at a time when they would be focused on rehabilitating their homes, livelihood, and lives.


"This assistance, together with other forms of support the government would extend to them, would make recovery and return to normal life easier and faster for them," he said.


He added that the moratorium promotes the achievement of the government's goal of providing all learners with equal opportunity to avail themselves of quality education.


Under the newly signed law, the deferment of student loan payments would cover students enrolled in state universities and colleges, local universities and colleges, private higher education institutions, and public and private technical-vocational institutions whose residence is located in barangays, towns, cities, provinces, or regions under a state of calamity or state of emergency declared by the President or the local Sanggunian in accordance with relevant laws, and rules and regulations.


The calamities, disasters, crisis situations and other kinds of emergencies are either be national in scope or local in scope, such as regional, provincial, city or municipal, barangay, and community levels.


The law provides that the payment postponement shall apply to all fees, interests, and other charges on loans for higher education and technical-vocational education and training incurred by students for up to 30 days after the declaration of a state of calamity or a state of emergency.


The legislation sets the following conditions for the grant of a student loan deferment: declaration of a state of calamity or emergency; the area in which the student temporarily or permanently resides is affected by a disaster, calamity, emergency, or crisis situation; and said student or his family has sustained injury or damage in the course of such calamity, disaster, emergency or crisis situation.


Within sixty days from the effectivity of the law, the Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority shall, in consultation with the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges, the Association of Local Colleges and Universities, the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations of the Philippines, or their equivalent institutions, and other non-government stakeholders, shall issue implementing rules and regulations.


The statute shall take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.


The law consolidates House Bill No. 9978 and Senate Bill No. 1864.


#PRTVreport
#PRTVTacloban
Arangkada Balita

UC to Award a Car to Their Top 1 Civil Engineering Licensure Exam Passer


University of Cebu (UC) Chancellor Candice Gotianuy expressed immense joy and pride for their student who achieved the Top 1 spot in the November 2024 Civil Engineering Licensure Exam.


In her official statement, Gotianuy announced that Engr. Francis Charles Lauta, the Top 1 board passer, will be receiving a brand-new car as a reward.


"UC has produced another topnotcher! 🎉
This means we're giving away another brand-new car! 🤙 Congratulations to Engr. Francis Charles P. Lauta for topping the PRC board exam—becoming Top 1 is no small feat!


Kudos to the UC Main Dean and Chairpersons for this achievement! It's truly becoming a habit!" Gotianuy shared in her Facebook post.


This remarkable announcement highlights UC's continued commitment to excellence in education and its recognition of outstanding achievements by their students.

🤝🏻𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 (𝐑𝐀) 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠🤝🏻 l  On 04 December 2024, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has officially sealed the proclamation of Xentromall Antipolo through a Registration Agreement (RA) signed by PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga and XRC Mall Developer, Inc. Chairman and CEO Alexander Cruz.


President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued Proclamation No. 752 last 25 November 2024, officially designating Xentromall Antipolo as a new PEZA-registered IT Center in Sumulong Highway, Brgy. Mambugan, Antipolo City.


XRC currently operates XentroMall Batangas and has plans to put-up integrated and mixed-use ecozones in other locations in Luzon, contributing in PEZA's goal of further strengthening the ecozone development program in the countryside.


#PEZA #EcozoneDevelopment

𝐋𝐓𝐎 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐯𝐬 𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) clarified on Tuesday, Dec. 3, that the implementation of two memoranda relating to the use of improvised plates are still suspended "until further notice".

The LTO issued the clarification amid questions and concerns from motorists who are seeking updates on the implementation of the Memorandum Circular VDM-2024-2721 and Memorandum Circular No. VDM-2024-2722.

The Memorandum Circular VDM-2024-2721 sets the guideline on the use of improvised plates for motor vehicles and motorcycles while the Memorandum Circular No. VDM-2024-2722 sets the guideline for the implementation and requirements for the participation in the motorcycle taxi pilot study.

Motor vehicle owners have earlier raised concerns on the implementation of the Memorandum Circular VDM-2024-2721 and sought for more time for them to secure their respective plates.

On September 30 this year, LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II issued a memorandum suspending the implementation of the two memorandum circular in a bid to give more time for motor vehicle owners to obtain their respective license plates.

In order to assist the motor vehicle owners, Assec Mendoza has instructed all motor vehicle dealers to expedite the release of the license plates which are still under their possession.

In compliance with Assec Mendoza's order, LTO regional and district offices also launched a program that paves the way to the door-to-door and free delivery of license plates.

On the other hand, motorcycle riders also asked the LTO to give them more time to comply with the requirements of the Memorandum Circular No. VDM-2024-2722 for the motorcycle pilot taxi study, particularly on the license plate and RFID requirements.

On November 27, Assec Mendoza issued another memorandum circular reminding all regional directors and other officials of the LTO that the deferment of the implementation of the two memorandum circulars were extended until further notice.

"In the best interest of the service and to give the motor vehicle and motorcycle dealers an ample time to have the plates distributed to the respective owners, the Memorandum dated 02 September 2024 entitled 'Deferment of Memorandum dated 30 July 2024 re Deferment of Implementation of Memorandum Circular No. VDM-2024-2721 and Memorandum Circular No. VDM-2024-2722' is hereby extended until further notice," the November 27 memorandum circular read.

Assec Mendoza earlier said that the deferment of the implementation of the two policies was in response to the request of motor vehicle owners and other stakeholders. #


#LTO #LTOPH #LTOPhilippines #WorkingLTO #DOTrLTO #RoadSafety #RoadSectorWorks #BagongPilipinas #PublicServiceNeverWaits

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) conducted a routine maritime patrol in the vicinity of Bajo De Masinloc to support Filipino fishermen actively engaged in fishing in the area on December 4, 2024. During this operation, vessels encountered aggressive actions from several Chinese Coast Guard vessels, specifically CCG 5303, 3302, 3104, as well as People's Liberation Army Navy vessels with bow numbers 500 and 571.


At around 6:30 AM, CCG 3302 fired a water cannon at the BRP Datu Pagbuaya (MMOV 3003), aiming directly at the vessel's navigational antennas while it was located 16 nautical miles south of Bajo de Masinloc. Following this hostile action, CCG 3302 intentionally sideswiped the BRP Datu Pagbuaya on its starboard side. Shortly thereafter, at 6:55 AM, CCG 3302 launched a second water cannon attack on the same vessel.


Furthermore, the PCG vessels, including the BRP Teresa Magbanua, faced blocking, shadowing, and dangerous maneuvers from PLA Navy vessel 500 and CCG 503. Additionally, BRP Cabra was subjected to reckless maneuvers by CCG 3104 at a distance of 300 yards.


The PCG and the BFAR reaffirm their unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and safety of Filipino fishermen within the country's maritime jurisdiction. Both agencies emphasize their dedication to remaining vigilant in safeguarding the nation's interests in the West Philippine Sea.

KAGUBOT SA LOCTOB WATER TREATMENT PLANT: LWI NISANG-AT OG KASO BATOK KANG MAYOR JALA

Loboc, Bohol - Gikatakdang mahuman karong Disyembre 20 ang proyekto sa Loctob Water Treatment Plant, apan nahimong layo sa tinuod tungod sa mga kalangan ug kontrobersiya nga naglibot niini.

Ang Loctob Water Inc. (LWI) nisang-at og kaso batok kang Mayor Raymond Jala ug uban pang opisyal sa Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 50 sa Loay, lakip na ang danyos nga P3 milyon ug usa ka preliminary injunction aron maprotektahan ang interes sa LWI ug mapadayon ang proyekto.

Ang LWI mipahayag nga ang mga reklamo gikan sa lokal nga mga opisyal ug residente ang hinungdan sa kalangan sa trabaho. Apan, si Mayor Jala mihatag og pahayag nga suportado niya ang proyekto, apan kinahanglan klarohon ang mga isyu nga gipasangil batok niini.

Ang gikatakda unta nga panagtipon niadtong Biyernes, Nobyembre 29, tali sa LWI, LGU Loboc, ug uban pang ahensya wala madayon tungod kay ang mga sakop sa media wala tugoti nga mo-obserba sa panagtipon.

Ang LWI mipadayag nga andam ug determinadong mahuman ang proyekto sa gikatakda nga deadline sa Disyembre 20. Apan, sa pagkakaron, layo ug hanap na ang panglantaw nga mahuman ang proyekto sa deadline tungod sa nagapadayon nga mga kalangan.

Ang LWI nangutana sa Mayor Jala nga halti ang mga unnecessary inspections aron mahatagan og oportunidad ang mga residente sa Loboc nga makatagamtam sa serbisyo sa proyekto.

Ang LWI mipahayag nga may mga dokumento ug permit sa DENR, DPWH, ug uban pang ahensya aron maprotektahan ang interes sa LWI ug mapadayon ang proyekto.

Ang kaso batok kang Mayor Jala ug uban pang opisyal gipasangil sa LWI tungod sa mga kalangan ug kontrobersiya nga naglibot sa proyekto.

KAGUBOT : LWI VS. MAYOR JALA : ISYU SA LOCTOB WATER TREATMENT PLANT


Headline : Gikatakdang Panagtipon sa LWI ug LGU Loboc, Nahimong Lalis; Media, Wala Tugti nga Pa-obserbaron


Subheadline: LWI Nisang-at og Kaso Batok Kang Mayor Jala ug Uban Pang Mga Opisyal; Deadline sa Loctob Water Treatment Plant, Hanap na


LOBOC, BOHOL – Ang proyekto sa Loctob Water Treatment Plant nga gilauman nga mahuman karong Disyembre 20, nahimong layo sa tinuod tungod sa mga kalangan ug kontrobersiya nga naglibot niini. Ang maong proyekto, nga gipahigayon sa Loctob Water Inc. (LWI), nag-atubang og daghang balakid, lakip na ang mga reklamo gikan sa lokal nga mga opisyal ug residente.


-Mga Reklamo ug Pag-inspeksyon, Hinungdan sa Kalangan-


Si Atty. Marvin Aceron, abogado sa LWI, mipahayag nga ang matag inspeksyon nga ginabuhat sa proyekto nakahatag og dako nga kabug-at ug hinungdan sa kalangan sa trabaho. Apan, si Mayor Raymond Jala sa Loboc mihimakak niini, nga giingong dili inspeksyon ang rason sa pagka-delay sa proyekto.


Ang gikatakda unta nga panagtipon niadtong Biyernes, Nobyembre 29, tali sa LWI, LGU Loboc, ug uban pang ahensya sama sa DPWH, CENRO, ug BEMO aron paghisgutan ang isyu nga naglibot sa project site, wala madayon tungod kay ang mga sakop sa media wala tugoti nga mo-obserba sa panagtipon.


-Panaglalis Sulod sa Munisipyo-


Dako ang panaglalis sulod sa Municipal Hall gumikan sa desisyon ni Mayor Jala nga dili pasudlon ang media sa meeting. Si Atty. Aceron, nga nagrepresentar sa LWI, mipadayag sa iyang kalainan ug mihangyo nga tugtan ang media aron adunay transparency sa maong panagtipon. Matod niya, "Kung walay gitago, nganong dili man pa-obserbaron ang media?"


Si Mayor Jala mihatag og pahayag nga ang media dili pasudlon sa unang bahin sa meeting aron mahatagan og oportunidad ang mga opisyal sa LWI ug LGU Loboc nga mahisgutan una ang mga reklamo ug isyu. Human niini, plano na unta niyang pasudlon ang media.


Gipangutana si Mayor Jala sa specific nga ihap sa mga reklamo nga nadawat sa iyang opisina. Sa una, iyang gibutyag nga adunay usa ka residente ug mga tour guides ang nireklamo. Apan sa ikaduhang higayon nga gipangutana siya sa ihap, wala na siya mitubag pa.


-Pagsang-at og Kaso sa LWI-


Sa mismong adlaw nga wala madayon ang panagtipon, ang LWI nisang-at og kaso batok kang Mayor Jala ug uban pang opisyal sa Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 50 sa Loay. Ang kaso naglakip og danyos nga P3 milyon ug usa ka preliminary injunction aron maprotektahan ang interes sa LWI ug mapadayon ang proyekto.


-Mayor Jala: Suporta sa Proyekto, Apan Naay Pangutana-


Gibutyag ni Mayor Jala nga suportado niya ang proyekto sa Loctob Water Inc., apan kinahanglan klarohon ang mga isyu nga gipasangil batok niini. Matod niya, ang mga reklamo gikan sa residente ug tour guides importante nga maimbestigahan aron malikayan ang dugang komplikasyon.


-Pahayag sa LWI-


Si Atty. Aceron mipadayag nga ang LWI andam ug determinadong mahuman ang proyekto sa gikatakda nga deadline sa Disyembre 20. Sumala niya, "Kung mahuman kini, ang opisina mismo ni Mayor Jala ang unang makatagamtam sa serbisyo niini."


Apan, sa pagkakaron, layo ug hanap na ang panglantaw nga mahuman ang proyekto sa deadline tungod sa nagapadayon nga mga kalangan. / Via Jomer Pequit, Dytr News


- Full Statement From Loctob Water -


We then agreed to proceed with no media, allowing only LGU Loboc with its lawyer and LWI with its lawyer. However, we requested that CENRO, BMinRRO, BEPTF, DPWH, EMB Region 7, Mines and Geosciences, BPEMO, and others be excluded. Still, Mayor Jala refused our final request. We then politely asked for permission to leave and exited after sensing that Mayor Jala was still insistent on conducting an inspection due to social media insinuations that we were engaging in quarrying.


LWI is not involved in quarrying, as confirmed by BEPTF. We have the necessary legal documents, including an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), DENR tree-cutting permit, National Water Resources Board (NWRB) Water Permit, NWRB Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), Mayor's/Building permit, DPWH permit, and certificates of no objection from the SB and Barangay Gotozon.


Our lawyer formally requested that Mayor Jala halt these unnecessary inspections so that the citizens of Loboc can have potable water in their taps by December 20, 2024. This would be the most beneficial action for Loboc's residents, who are suffering from a lack of water.


We respectfully appeal to Mayor Jala to reconsider his position on conducting further inspections, as this is causing unnecessary delays and could potentially discourage our investors.


We suggest that Mayor Jala follow the example set by Cortes Mayor Iven Lim in 2018. When he received a complaint from 888 during the PRRD administration regarding our water treatment plant construction in Patrocinio, Cortes, Mayor Lim did not inspect the project again or call our attention. Instead, he responded to 888 Malacañang by providing all of our ECC and legal documents. LGU Cortes inspected us only once before issuing the Building/Mayor's Permit. Mayor Iven Lim demonstrated political will to provide Boholanos with water. Since 2019, we have been supplying potable water to the people of Bohol.


In LGU Trinidad, even though the Mayor, Vice Mayor, and SB are politically opposed, we are still operating and supplying potable water to the people of Trinidad without encountering any inspection issues. They set aside politics for the welfare of their constituents.


As long as the people of Loboc and Bohol continue to support us, LWI will continue its work legally and ethically to provide clean, safe, affordable, potable water to all Lobocans and Boholanos.


We kindly ask for your prayers.
God bless Loboc and Bohol.


Water is life.

"A man is rich, whose heart is light,
Whose pleasures are simple, and his joys in sight,
He finds delight, in nature's gentle breeze,


And sunshine warms his soul, with effortless ease.
His wealth is measured, not in gold or might,
But in the beauty, of a peaceful night,


A walk in the woods, a book by the fire,
These are the treasures, that his heart desires.
He is the richest, who can find delight,


In the smallest pleasures, that life brings to sight,
A child's laughter, a friend's warm embrace,
These are the riches, that fill his heart with grace.


So let us not be fooled, by wealth's disguise,
For true richness lies, in a heart that's wise,
That finds joy in the simple things,
And treasures love, above all earthly rings."

The Korean Alphabet, known as Hangul, was created in the 15th century by King Sejong the Great. Before Hangul, Koreans used Classical Chinese characters, which were complex and difficult for the common people to learn. King Sejong recognized that literacy was essential for the nation's progress and believed that everyone, regardless of their social status, should have the ability to read and write. To address this, he assembled a group of scholars and linguists to develop a new writing system that was simple, logical, and easy to learn. Hangul was designed to be phonetic, with each character representing a specific sound, making it accessible to all Koreans.


Hangul's creation was a revolutionary step in promoting literacy and education in Korea. The alphabet consists of 14 consonants and 10 vowels, which can be combined to form syllables. Its simplicity allows it to be learned quickly, often in just a few hours. King Sejong's vision was to empower the common people by giving them the tools to communicate effectively and participate in society. Today, Hangul is celebrated for its scientific design and efficiency, and it remains the official writing system of both South and North Korea. The annual Hangul Day, celebrated on October 9th in South Korea, commemorates the creation of this remarkable alphabet and its enduring impact on Korean culture and identity.

Get ready for a holiday treat! Philippine Airlines' Year-End Seat Sale offers flights for as low as ₱209 (One-way Economy Base Fare) for domestic routes and USD 79 (Roundtrip Economy Base Fare) for international routes.


Fares apply to select routes only and are exclusive of government taxes, fees, ticketing service charge, and surcharges. Booking and travel period vary for each route and fare level. Terms and Conditions, & Blackout Dates Apply.


What are you waiting for? Book your flight now and start globetrotting!


📅 Booking Period:
All Other Routes (except South Korea): November 22 - December 12, 2024
PH to South Korea: November 22 - December 15, 2024


✈️Travel Period:
Domestic Travel: December 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025 / July 1, 2025 onwards
International Travel: January 9 – September 14, 2025 / June 1, 2025 onwards


Visit https://flights.philippineairlines.com/en-ph/year-end-seat-sale-2024 for full details of the routes, fares, booking, and travel periods for each route and fare level.

𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐘 𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐄 𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐐𝐔𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝟑𝟓𝐓𝐇 𝐉𝐑𝐌𝐒𝐏 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐋𝐒


Mia Fe Kim G. Mosquite, a fourth-year student of the BSED MATH program, was declared one of the finalists for the 35th Jose Rizal Model Students of the Philippines (JRMSP). Along with fourteen (14) finalists around the country, she will represent Holy Name University in the 62nd National Rizal Youth Leadership Institute (NRYLI) on December 5-9, 2024 at Baguio Teachers' Camp. A final series of evaluations will be conducted to choose the next Top Ten (10) Outstanding College/University Students of the Philippines during the said event.


The Annual Search recognizes Ten (10) Outstanding College/University Students of the Philippines who best epitomize the Rizalian qualities of academic excellence and leadership in campus and community activities, serving as role models to the youth.


We are one with you, Ms. Mosquite!

Proverbs from different countries:
1. "He who shakes his neighbor's house will have his own house shaken." (Swiss Proverb)


2. "If a person eats his fill, he cannot taste the bread." (Scottish Proverb)


3. "If you don't know how to smile, don't open a shop." (Chinese Proverb)


4. "Good looks are the strongest recommendation." (English Proverb)


5. "Doing good deeds without expectation of reward is like pouring perfume into the sea." (Polish Proverb)


6. "To know the progress of a nation, look at its women." (French Proverb)


7. "We often see things differently because we only read the title." (American Proverb)


8. "Other people's mistakes are always clearer than our own." (Russian Proverb)


9. "Contentment is half of happiness." (Italian Proverb)


10. "Every man creates his own destiny." (English Proverb)


11. "Adorn your mind with knowledge, not your body with jewels." (Chinese Proverb)


12. "Self-love is the child of ignorance." (Spanish Proverb)


13. "Love that depends on gifts is always hungry." (English Proverb)


14. "Beware of the woman who talks about her virtues and the man who talks about his honesty." (French Proverb)


15. "Love your wife and confide in your mother." (Irish Proverb)


16. "Make your child a prince for five years, a slave for ten years, and a friend thereafter." (Hindi Proverb)


17. "Being human is easy; being a man is difficult." (Russian Proverb)


18. "My family taught me to speak, and people taught me to be silent." (Czechoslovak Proverb)


19. "He who looks at people with knowledge hates them; he who looks at them with reality forgives them." (Italian Proverb)


20. "Anger is a strong wind that blows out the lamp of reason." (American Proverb)


21. "Those who give should not speak of their giving; those who receive should." (Portuguese Proverb)
22. "A large tree gives more shade but fewer fruits." (Italian Proverb)


23. "Put your worries in a torn pocket." (Chinese Proverb)

From Facebook


Don't mock a Man that has fallen. Don't laugh at a man that has lost his business. Why do you feel excited when you hear a man is out of business? Or lost his job?


Life is a transaction. Life is a mystery. Things happens. Sh!t happens. Men get sucked. Accident happens. Unseen challenges are bound to occur.


No one is above all these. No one can predict their end no matter how they try to be careful. I've seen the great fall brutally. Brutally to the extent you imagine if they are truely the people you had ever known. I've seen the mighty get broken.


The tables can turn anyday anytime. If you are up today, remember you were once down. And someday someone might climb beyond you too. Remember to remain humble and loyal.


If you see a fellow Man that has fallen by the way. Help them. Uphold them. Don't expect anything from don't. Even if they were bad people as at when they were at the Pinnacle, please just help.


It's called investment.


Someday Life will pay where you least expect it would. I've been a testimonial to this.


Please help.


Class dismissed.

Henry Darger lived a quiet, solitary life as a janitor in Chicago, largely unnoticed by those around him. Yet, after his death in 1973, the world discovered that he had spent decades creating one of the most astonishing and enigmatic bodies of work ever known. Hidden in his small apartment was a 15,000-page manuscript titled "The Story of the Vivian Girls, in What Is Known as the Realms of the Unreal", accompanied by hundreds of vivid, surreal paintings. Darger's secret world revealed a reclusive genius who blended innocence and darkness in equal measure.


Darger's magnum opus tells the story of the Vivian Girls, child-like heroines who lead a rebellion against an evil empire that enslaves children. The narrative is sprawling and complex, interweaving themes of good versus evil, religion, and innocence lost. His accompanying artwork, often rendered on massive sheets of paper, is hauntingly beautiful. It features colorful depictions of fantastical battles, strange landscapes, and ethereal characters, blending childlike wonder with unsettling undertones.


Much of Darger's work reflects his troubled life. Orphaned at a young age, he endured a childhood marked by neglect and abuse. These experiences likely influenced the dark and often violent imagery in his art. His obsession with protecting children, evident in the Vivian Girls' relentless fight against oppression, may stem from a deep sense of powerlessness he felt throughout his life.


What makes Darger's story even more remarkable is that his work was discovered entirely by chance. His landlords, Nathan and Kiyoko Lerner, stumbled upon his treasure trove of art and manuscripts while clearing out his apartment after his death. Recognizing its value, they preserved his creations, introducing the world to a visionary who had spent his life in obscurity.


Today, Henry Darger's work is celebrated in museums and galleries around the world, including the American Folk Art Museum in New York. His story resonates as a testament to the profound creativity that can flourish in solitude and the universal human need to express and process our experiences, no matter how hidden.


"Great art can emerge from the most unexpected places, and every story deserves to be found." — Unknown


~ Weird but True

Stunning Volcano in Southeast Asia 😍


History of Volcanoes in Southeast Asia


Southeast Asia is a geologically active region due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped area around the Pacific Ocean known for intense tectonic activity, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The region's volcanic history dates back millions of years and has been shaped by the complex interaction of tectonic plates.


1. Formation of Volcanoes:


The movement and collision of the Eurasian, Indo-Australian, Pacific, and Philippine Sea Plates cause subduction zones, where one tectonic plate sinks beneath another. This process creates magma that rises to the surface, forming volcanoes.


The volcanic activity in the region has led to the formation of island chains, mountain ranges, and fertile soils.


2. Key Historical Eruptions:


Toba Supervolcano (Indonesia): Around 74,000 years ago, Toba erupted in one of the largest volcanic events in Earth's history, creating Lake Toba and causing a "volcanic winter" that may have affected global populations.


Krakatoa (Indonesia): The 1883 eruption of Krakatoa was one of the most powerful in recorded history, generating massive tsunamis and altering global climate.


Mount Pinatubo (Philippines): The 1991 eruption was the second-largest eruption of the 20th century, ejecting massive amounts of ash and gases, which cooled global temperatures temporarily.


Why Indonesia and the Philippines Have the Most Volcanoes


1. Location in the Pacific Ring of Fire


Both Indonesia and the Philippines are situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where multiple tectonic plates meet. This makes them some of the most volcanically active countries in the world.


Indonesia:


Lies at the convergence of the Indo-Australian Plate, Eurasian Plate, and Pacific Plate.


Contains around 147 active volcanoes, the most of any country globally.


Its vast archipelago spans several tectonic boundaries, leading to frequent volcanic activity.


Philippines:


Located at the junction of the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate, creating subduction zones such as the Manila Trench and Philippine Trench.


Has around 24 active volcanoes, with several major ones like Mayon, Taal, and Pinatubo.


2. Island Arc Formation


Both countries are made up of island arcs, which form when oceanic crust subducts under continental or other oceanic crust, leading to chains of volcanoes. Examples include:


Sunda Arc (Indonesia): Includes famous volcanoes like Krakatoa and Mount Merapi.


Philippine Arc: Includes Taal, Mayon, and other volcanoes along Luzon and Mindanao.


3. High Rate of Subduction


The rate of plate subduction is particularly high in Southeast Asia. Faster subduction generates more magma, leading to frequent volcanic eruptions.


4. Climate and Erosion


Volcanoes in these countries often remain prominent features due to the tropical climate, which allows rapid vegetation growth, preventing erosion from entirely wearing them down.


Benefits and Risks of Volcanism in Indonesia and the Philippines


Benefits:


Fertile Soil: Volcanic ash enriches the soil, making it highly productive for agriculture.


Tourism: Volcanoes like Mount Bromo (Indonesia) and Mayon (Philippines) attract millions of visitors annually.


Geothermal Energy: Both countries harness geothermal energy due to volcanic activity.


Risks:


Eruptions: Both countries experience frequent and often catastrophic eruptions, causing loss of life and property.


Earthquakes and Tsunamis: Volcanic activity often triggers earthquakes and tsunamis, as seen in the Krakatoa eruption of 1883.


Indonesia and the Philippines' volcanic landscapes are both a blessing and a challenge, shaped by millions of years of tectonic activity and volcanic processes.

𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 | 𝐏𝐄𝐙𝐀 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐬
30 November 2024 (Saturday)
-
Pasay City – The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has recognized four (4) additional locator companies for their exceptional contributions to the Philippine economy through their operations in the ecozones.


"As PEZA turns 30 next year, we want to honor and pay homage to our RBEs for your continuous trust and confidence in the Philippines—a significant part of our local and national economic progress. That is why we've decided to conduct this unique awarding ceremony," said PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga.


For the month of November, PEZA awarded Philippine Manufacturing Co. of Murata, Inc., Insight Direct Philippines, LLC, Concentrix CVG Philippines, Inc., and ING Hubs B.V. Philippines Branch the Outstanding Community Projects, Outstanding Exporter, and Hall of Fame Awards for their exemplary performance for the fiscal year 2023. The PEZA Team, led by DG Panga, conferred the awards at their facilities in Ayala and Laguna.


Read full article here: https://www.peza.gov.ph/press-releases/peza-awards-more-outstanding-locator-companies

Get ready for a holiday treat! Philippine Airlines' Year-End Seat Sale offers flights for as low as ₱209 (One-way Economy Base Fare) for domestic routes and USD 79 (Roundtrip Economy Base Fare) for international routes.


Fares apply to select routes only and are exclusive of government taxes, fees, ticketing service charge, and surcharges. Booking and travel period vary for each route and fare level. Terms and Conditions, & Blackout Dates Apply.


What are you waiting for? Book your flight now and start globetrotting!


📅 Booking Period:
All Other Routes (except South Korea): November 22 - December 15, 2024
South Korea: November 22 - December 15, 2024 


✈️Travel Period:
Domestic Travel: December 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025 / July 1, 2025 onwards
International Travel: January 9 – September 14, 2025 / June 1, 2025 onwards


Visit https://flights.philippineairlines.com/en-ph/year-end-seat-sale-2024 for full details of the routes, fares, booking, and travel periods for each route and fare level.

✒️ 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 | 𝐏𝐄𝐙𝐀 𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐇 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐥-𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐨𝐲𝐨𝐭𝐚 𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐫'𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐭-𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐰
29 November 2024 (Friday)
-
Pasay City – The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has reaffirmed its support to Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) and the whole automotive industry as TMP unveiled the next-generation Tamaraw on 28 November 2024 at the Toyota Sta. Rosa Special Economic Zone, Laguna.


"In PEZA, we are ready to support Toyota every step of the way. Our economic zones are primed for the expansion of parts manufacturing, ensuring that the Philippines continues its evolution into a more competitive hub," expressed PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga during his keynote speech at the Ceremonial Roll-off of the Next Generation Tamaraw.


TMP has invested PhP 1.1 billion for a new 1.5-hectare conversion facility, bringing their total committed investment to revive their Tamaraw production to PhP 5.5 billion. This integrated vehicle production and conversion process—the first setup of its kind in the Philippines—is expected to deliver about 20,000 units of Tamaraw at the highest cost efficiency and translate to competitive vehicle prices accessible to Filipinos.


The new Tamaraw vehicles will be the third locally produced model by Toyota in its 78-hectare ecozone in Laguna. This initiative is expected to create over 500 direct jobs, support 15,090 spillover employment opportunities, and strengthen the automotive value chain.


Read full article here: https://bit.ly/4gaFI18

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 | 𝐃𝐈𝐋𝐆 𝐁𝐎𝐇𝐎𝐋 𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐎𝐍 𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐏 𝐂𝐎𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐏 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐆𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 (𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐌) 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐘 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐂𝐄𝐃 𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 (𝐈𝐃𝐏𝐏)


DILG Bohol  attended the Training on Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) and Internally Displaced Persons Protection (IDPP) on November 19-22, 2024 in Cebu City. In attendance were LGOO II Meah Hecell Nisnisan-Genovia, DRRM Provincial Focal Person, together with the Municipal Local Government Operations Officer (MLGOO), the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (LDRRMO), and the Local Social Welfare and Development Officer (LSWDO),  of eight  selected Local Government Units (LGUs) from the province of Bohol namely: Corella, Danao, Duero, Lila, Loboc, Maribojoc, Trinidad and Ubay.


The training was a successful collaboration of the Department of the  Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 7, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 7 and Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) Central Visayas. It was anchored on the National Program on CCCM & IDPP Version 2.0 that highlights Humanitarian Standards, Roles & Responsibilities of Key Actors and Information Management in CCCM and the protection of IDPs. The Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 mandated the DSWD to lead the CCCM Cluster including the IDPP during emergencies and disaster response operations with the support of the OCD and DILG especially in strengthening the capacity of LGUs to ensure streamlined coordination of responses with stakeholders, resource optimization, swift service delivery, accountability in protective responses for IDPs, and foster community resilience amidst internal displacement crises.


The resource speakers of the training were Ms. Mildred F. Abela, CCCM & IDPP Focal Person of DSWD Region 7, Engr. Rhafael R. Luche, Head of Operations of the OCD Central Visayas and  Ms. Christine A. Escolano, Section Head of the Disaster Response Management Division, DWSD Field Office VII.


The highlight of the training was the Functional Exercise in the Evacuation Center/Camp to simulate real-word scenarios during disasters. It allowed the participants to apply theoretical knowledge in practical, immersive settings. It paved the way to evaluate the effectiveness of existing response mechanisms of the participating LGUs and identify gaps and areas for improvement. The participants were able to practice critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving under pressure while fostering effective communication, coordination, and collaboration among teams and stakeholders. It also developed leadership and teamwork skills, essential for efficient camp management and IDP protection.


Moreover, the CCCM Cluster aims to provide timely and well-coordinated humanitarian assistance and augmentation support in the management of Evacuation Centers/Camps (ECs). It ensures the availability of safe, secure, and accessible ECs for emergencies and disasters.