March 16, 2025 – VRITIMES, a leading press release distribution platform, is pleased to announce its partnership with Metro Guide and Metro Clark Guide, two premier online platforms dedicated to providing business, lifestyle, and tourism news in the Philippines. This collaboration aims to give businesses, entrepreneurs, and tourism-related industries a powerful avenue to amplify their stories and connect with a wider audience.
By integrating VRITIMES’ cutting-edge distribution technology with Metro Guide and Metro Clark Guide, press releases covering business developments, local events, and travel highlights will now reach a more engaged readership. Whether it’s a new restaurant opening, a tourism initiative, or a business expansion, this partnership ensures that important updates are effectively communicated to both locals and visitors.
“Partnering with Metro Guide and Metro Clark Guide is an exciting step forward in our mission to help businesses share their stories with the right audiences,” said Ferry Bayu, CEO of VRITIMES. “Both platforms have established themselves as go-to sources for regional insights, and together, we are making it easier for businesses and organizations to gain visibility where it matters most.”
As trusted sources of information for locals and travelers, Metro Guide and Metro Clark Guide provide valuable content on business growth, lifestyle trends, and tourism hotspots. With the support of VRITIMES, both platforms can now offer businesses a seamless way to distribute their press releases and gain meaningful exposure.
This collaboration highlights a shared commitment to supporting economic growth and tourism by ensuring that relevant news reaches the right audience at the right time. Through this partnership, businesses, event organizers, and tourism stakeholders can leverage a more effective way to engage with their target markets.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
Embarking on the journey of establishing a business in Indonesia necessitates a firm grasp of the company registration process. Aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned investors alike are met with a maze of legal intricacies and procedural hurdles. From selecting the appropriate legal structure to navigating regulatory requirements, every step demands careful consideration. Amidst this complexity, understanding the nuances of company registration is crucial for laying a solid foundation for future growth and success. In this article, we delve deep into the Indonesian company registration process, shedding light on key procedures and insights to empower businesses in their pursuit of market entry and expansion.
In terms of business development, the Indonesian market offers competitive value and opportunity. Indonesia is among the most promising countries for business due to its enormous labor force, strategic position, and plenty of natural resources. Additionally, the government has implemented various reforms to attract foreign investors and simplify the process of starting businesses in the country.
However, there are a lot of intricate factors to take into account for foreigners wishing to conduct business in Indonesia. As an illustration:
Determine whether your company is a representative office or has direct foreign investors, specifying the type of legal body it represents.Identify the industry in which your company’s legal entity will operate.Assess whether foreign investment is permitted in this sector, and if so, determine the ownership percentage permitted.
Continue reading below to learn more about the Indonesian International Company Registration Process.
You ought to be aware of and comprehend the minimal capital requirements, regulatory framework, organizational structure, mandatory activity reports, tax laws, labor force usage in Indonesia, and so on. Here’s how to establish a foreign business in Indonesia:
In fact, this kind of firm is better suited for establishment in its early stages. Among its benefits are:
Reasonably quick and simple to operate.Neither a large investment nor a capital deposit are necessary.simple structure to create. Only appoint a Chief Representative Office to run the representative office in Indonesia
Nevertheless, this method may not be flexible enough for some kinds of businesses. The reason is that your company will have a legal umbrella in Indonesia, but it is not allowed to take profits from sales or engage in business transactions. So, the representative office was better set up for market research and marketing purposes before establishing a full legal body.
2. Foreign business organization PT. PMA
The Act governs the process of forming a foreign firm in Indonesia through Foreign Investment (PMA). The PMA is essentially a limited corporation (PT).
Meanwhile, funds or investments from foreign entities are referred to as foreign direct investment, or FDI. FDI is governed in Indonesia by:
Investment Law No. 25/2007.Law No. 40/2007 Concerning Limited Liability Company (as partially amended by Government Regulation In Lieu of Law No 2/2022).Perpres No. 10/2021 as amended by Perpres No. 49/2021 concerning Investment Business Fields. Positive Investment List Disclosure.
Any company with shares owned by foreigners is required to register as a PMA. In the meantime, positive investment lists all company sectors that are available to full-owned ownership as well as those that are restricted to specific restrictions for foreign investment.
Depending on your business activities, a further business license from the government may be a requirement for each PT PMA that registers in Indonesia. You still need to take care of several licenses with the local government after that.
You should think about hiring a local consultant to help you with the licensing and legal matters. They would be of great assistance.
The method by which PT. PMA is created
There are a few steps you must take when setting up a PMA, such as:
Get approval from Kemenkumham, the Ministry of Human Rights and Law, for the name of your business.Deed of Establishment by Public NotaryAcquire the company’s formation certificateAcquiring a mandatory tax identification.Acquire the corporate registration numberBusiness license (as necessary depending on the business activities)
Terms of PT. PMA’s establishment
Establishing a PT PMA in Indonesia can be a remarkable and enduring process. On the other hand, the procedure might be simpler and quicker if all the conditions were satisfied. What prerequisites must be met in order for PT PMA to be established in Indonesia?
1. Minimum Capital Requirement for Foreign-Owned Company
In Indonesia, the minimum capital requirement for a foreign-owned company is IDR 10 billion or equivalent to approximately USD680,000. For the purpose of establishing a PT PMA, a statement letter/commitment letter is required to be signed by the shareholders as the bank account of the PT PMA is not yet be able to set up.
2. Shareholder Requirements
In compliance with the law, the company must issue shares if the PMA operates in the form of a PT enterprise. This necessitates a minimum of two shareholders, each of whom can also act as a director and commissioner.
3. Location Consideration
Foreign investor owners have the freedom to establish their businesses in any part of Indonesia. However, it is important to note that the government emphasizes the establishment and launch of industries within designated commercial business area (not housing complex or apartment).
Summary
In conclusion, establishing a business in Indonesia entails a comprehensive understanding of the company registration process. From selecting the appropriate legal structure to navigating regulatory requirements, entrepreneurs encounter various challenges. Two primary methods for foreign companies include setting up a representative office or forming a Foreign Business Entity (PT. PMA). While the former offers simplicity and ease of operation, it restricts profit-making activities. Conversely, PT. PMA requires adherence to specific laws and regulations, including minimum capital requirements, shareholder criteria, and location considerations. Throughout the process, collaboration with local consultants can streamline licensing and legal matters. Ultimately, achieving success in Indonesia’s dynamic market requires meticulous planning, compliance with regulations, and strategic decision-making.
March 15, 2025 – VRITIMES, an innovative press release distribution platform, is pleased to announce its strategic partnership with KakaComputer, a trusted technology news and information hub. This collaboration aims to provide businesses, startups, and tech professionals with a stronger platform to share their latest developments, innovations, and industry insights with a broader audience.
With this partnership, VRITIMES will leverage its advanced distribution technology to help businesses seamlessly publish and promote their press releases on KakaComputer. This ensures that key updates, product launches, and breakthrough advancements in technology reach the right industry professionals and enthusiasts.
“We are excited to collaborate with KakaComputer, a well-respected platform in the tech community,” said Ferry Bayu, CEO of VRITIMES. “This partnership will allow technology-driven businesses to enhance their reach and gain more visibility among tech-savvy audiences who are eager to stay ahead of the latest trends.”
KakaComputer has built a reputation for delivering in-depth tech news, reviews, and analysis, making it a go-to resource for IT professionals, tech enthusiasts, and businesses looking to stay informed about the latest industry shifts. By working with VRITIMES, KakaComputer strengthens its role as a key distribution channel for important industry news.
This collaboration represents a shared commitment to supporting the growth of the tech industry by streamlining access to relevant news and developments. Through this partnership, businesses can connect with their target audiences more efficiently, ensuring their stories receive the recognition they deserve.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
WEHI researchers have made a huge leap forward in the fight against Parkinson’s disease, solving a decades-long mystery that paves the way for development of new drugs to treat the condition.
First discovered over 20 years ago, PINK1 is a protein directly linked to Parkinson’s disease – the fastest growing neurodegenerative condition in the world. Until now, no one had seen what human PINK1 looks like, how PINK1 attaches to the surface of damaged mitochondria, or how it is switched on.
In a major breakthrough, researchers at the WEHI Parkinson’s Disease Research Centre have determined the first ever structure of human PINK1 bound to mitochondria, in findings published in Science. The work could help find new treatments for the condition that currently has no cure or drug to stop its progression.
At a glance
In a world-first, WEHI researchers have discovered what human PINK1 looks like and how it is activated.PINK1 is a protein linked to Parkinson’s disease, the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s.There is no cure for Parkinson’s.This discovery, published inScience, is a huge leap forward in the fight against Parkinson’s with the hope that it will accelerate the search for a drug to stop the condition.
Parkinson’s disease is insidious, often taking years, sometimes decades to diagnose. Often associated with tremors, there are close to 40 symptoms including cognitive impairment, speech issues, body temperature regulation and vision problems.
In Australia, over 200,000 people live with Parkinson’s and between 10% and 20% have Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease – meaning they are diagnosed under the age of fifty. The impact of Parkinson’s on the Australian economy and healthcare systems is estimated to be over $10 billion each year.
Breakthrough after decades of research
Mitochondria produce energy at a cellular level in all living things, and cells that require a lot of energy can contain hundreds or thousands of mitochondria. The PARK6 gene encodes the PINK1 protein, which supports cell survival by detecting damaged mitochondria and tagging them for removal.
In a healthy person, when mitochondria are damaged, PINK1 gathers on mitochondrial membranes and signals through a small protein called ubiquitin, that the broken mitochondria need to be removed. The PINK1 ubiquitin signal is unique to damaged mitochondria, and when PINK1 is mutated in patients, broken mitochondria accumulate in cells.
Although PINK1 has been linked to Parkinson’s, and in particular Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease, researchers had been unable to visualise it and did not understand how it attaches to mitochondria and is switched on.
Corresponding author on the study and head of WEHI’s Ubiquitin Signalling Division, Professor David Komander, said years of work by his team have unlocked the mystery of what human PINK1 looks like, and how it assembles on mitochondria to be switched on.
“This is a significant milestone for research into Parkinson’s. It is incredible to finally see PINK1 and understand how it binds to mitochondria,” said Prof Komander, who is a laboratory head in the WEHI Parkinson’s Disease Research Centre.
“Our structure reveals many new ways to change PINK1, essentially switching it on, which will be life-changing for people with Parkinson’s.”
Hope for future treatments
Lead author on the study, WEHI senior researcher Dr Sylvie Callegari, said PINK1 works in four distinct steps, with the first two steps not been seen before.
First, PINK1 senses mitochondrial damage. Then it attaches to damaged mitochondria. Once attached it tags ubiquitin, which then links to a protein called Parkin so that the damaged mitochondria can be recycled.
“This is the first time we’ve seen human PINK1 docked to the surface of damaged mitochondria and it has uncovered a remarkable array of proteins that act as the docking site. We also saw, for the first time, how mutations present in people with Parkinson’s disease affect human PINK1,” said Dr Callegari.
The idea of using PINK1 as a target for potential drug therapies has long been touted but not yet achieved because the structure of PINK1 and how it attaches to damaged mitochondria were unknown.
The research team hope to use the knowledge to find a drug to slow or stop Parkinson’s in people with a PINK1 mutation.
The link between PINK1 and Parkinson’s
One of the hallmarks of Parkinson’s is the death of brain cells. Around 50 million cells die and are replaced in the human body every minute. But unlike other cells in the body, when brain cells die, the rate at which they are replaced is extremely low.
When mitochondria are damaged, they stop making energy and release toxins into the cell. In a healthy person, the damaged cells are disposed of in a process called mitophagy.
In a person with Parkinson’s and a PINK1 mutation the mitophagy process no longer functions correctly and toxins accumulate in the cell, eventually killing it. Brain cells need a lot of energy and are especially sensitive to this damage.
The study, “Structure of human PINK1 at a mitochondrial TOM-VDAC array”, is published in Science (DOI: 10.1126/science.adu6445).
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
This comprehensive guide provides essential information about employment contracts in Indonesia, ensuring you comply with local labor laws. Whether you’re planning to start a business or manage employees in Indonesia, understanding the various types of employment contracts, working hours, overtime regulations, and leave entitlements is crucial. This guide offers detailed insights to help you navigate the complexities of employment contracts in Indonesia effectively.
When running a business in Indonesia, it’s vital to understand local employment contracts to ensure compliance with labor laws. This guide explains the key types of employment contracts, working hours, and leave entitlements in Indonesia, helping you manage your workforce effectively.
There are two primary types of employment contracts in Indonesia: fixed-term and indefinite-term. Each type has specific rules and ideal use cases.
Fixed-Term Employment Contracts
Best for Project-Based Roles: Fixed-term contracts are suitable for hiring employees for specific projects or seasonal work. Duration: These contracts can last up to five years. Probation period is prohibited if you use this contract. Ensure these contracts are written in both Indonesian and English for clarity and legal compliance.Renewal: After the initial term, the contract can be renewed based on mutual agreement, provided it doesn’t exceed the maximum allowable period, which is 5 (five) years in total..
Indefinite-Term Employment Contracts
For Permanent Roles: Indefinite-term contracts are used for long-term roles.Probation Period: These contracts include a probation period of up to three months, after which a permanent appointment letter must be issued.Stability: This type of contract offers job security and benefits for both employer and employee, fostering long-term employment relationships.
Working Hours and Overtime Regulations
Understanding working hours and overtime regulations is crucial for compliance and employee satisfaction.
Regular Working Hours
Maximum Hours: Employees should not work more than 40 hours per week. You can choose between seven hours per day for six days a week or eight hours per day for five days a week.Flexibility: This flexibility allows businesses to choose a schedule that best fits their operational needs while adhering to legal limits.
Overtime Regulations
Limits: Overtime should not exceed four hours per day or 18 hours per week.Pay Rates: Overtime pay varies depending on whether the extra hours are worked on weekdays, weekends, or public holidays. For example:Weekdays: 1.5 times the hourly wage for the first hour, and twice the hourly wage for subsequent hours.Weekends/Public Holidays: Two times the hourly wage for the first eight hours, three times for the ninth hour, and four times for any additional hours.Documentation: Proper documentation and approval processes for overtime work should be maintained to ensure compliance and prevent disputes.
Leave Entitlements
Employees in Indonesia are entitled to various types of leave, ensuring their well-being and compliance with local laws.
Annual Leave
Entitlement: Employees are entitled to 12 days of paid annual leave after one year of continuous work. Unused leave can be carried over for up to six months.Scheduling: Employers should manage and schedule annual leave to ensure business continuity while respecting employees’ right to rest.
Sick Leave
Salary Reductions: There is no specific number of sick leave days, but salary is paid based on the length of absence:100% salary for the first four months.75% salary for the next four months.50% salary for the following four months.25% salary for any subsequent months.Documentation: Medical certificates should be provided to validate the leave and ensure proper record-keeping.
Maternity Leave
Duration: Female employees are entitled to six months of fully paid maternity leave, divided equally before and after childbirth. In case of a miscarriage, they receive 1.5 months of paid leave or as specified by a doctor.Support: Employers should provide a supportive environment for pregnant employees and facilitate their return to work post-maternity leave.
Paid Leave for Specific Reasons
Events: Employees can take paid leave for various personal and family-related events, such as:Marriage of the employee: 3 days.Marriage of the employee’s child: 2 days.Child’s baptism or circumcision: 2 days.Wife giving birth or miscarriage: 2 days.Death of a close family member: 1-2 days.Flexibility: Providing flexibility for such events helps maintain employee morale and loyalty.
Probation Period Regulations
The probation period in Indonesia should not exceed three months. During this period, employees must receive at least the minimum wage. This period allows employers to assess whether an employee is suitable for a long-term role.
Assessment: Employers should use the probation period to thoroughly assess the employee’s performance and fit within the company culture.Feedback: Regular feedback and performance reviews during the probation period can help address any issues and support the employee’s development.
Managing Employment Contracts in Indonesia
Contract Language: In case there is a foreigner as the parties involved, then ensure all employment contracts are written in both Indonesian and English to comply with the law and ensure legal enforceability. If there is no foreigner, then a full Indonesian contract is allowed.Legal Compliance: Regularly review employment contracts and company policies to ensure compliance with the latest labor laws and regulations.Employee Handbook: Develop an employee handbook that outlines all terms and conditions of employment, including working hours, leave entitlements, and company policies. The employee handbook must be registered to the local manpower agency so that it can be enforced on the employees.HR Practices: Implement robust HR practices to manage employment contracts, employee records, and compliance with labor laws.
Conclusion
Understanding employment contracts in Indonesia is crucial for ensuring legal compliance and maintaining a productive and satisfied workforce. By familiarizing yourself with the different types of contracts, working hours, overtime regulations, and leave entitlements, you can manage your employees effectively and avoid legal issues. For personalized assistance and further guidance, consider consulting with CPT Corporate’s experts who can help you navigate the complexities of Indonesian labor laws.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
March 14, 2025 – VRITIMES, a leading press release distribution platform, is excited to announce its partnership with JustBaazaar, a prominent online business directory and media platform. This collaboration aims to provide businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals with a powerful avenue to amplify their brand visibility and share their news with a wider audience.
Through VRITIMES’ cutting-edge press release distribution technology, businesses can now seamlessly publish their announcements on JustBaazaar, ensuring that news about company milestones, product launches, industry trends, and professional services reaches the right audience.
“We are thrilled to partner with JustBaazaar, a platform dedicated to helping businesses grow through increased online visibility,” said Ferry Bayu, CEO of VRITIMES. “By working together, we are making it easier for companies to share their stories and connect with potential customers, partners, and industry leaders.”
JustBaazaar is known for its comprehensive business directory and commitment to showcasing businesses across various industries. By leveraging VRITIMES’ distribution technology, JustBaazaar’s platform will offer businesses a more efficient way to gain media exposure and attract a larger audience.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to empowering businesses by providing innovative tools for communication and brand promotion. Together, VRITIMES and JustBaazaar are set to redefine how businesses share their news and engage with their target markets.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
HAGONOY, BULACAN – Art has a way of finding those who need it most. For Jasch Caballero, a self-taught artist known for his bold, expressive canvases, the path to painting wasn’t planned—it was a calling he couldn’t ignore.
Recently featured in the “Sining sa Hardin” exhibition held from March 7-9, 2025, at the Capitol Mini-Forest in City of Malolos, Caballero’s work captivated audiences with its striking use of color and emotion. His pieces are a fusion of controlled chaos—intense hues, dynamic strokes, and layers of meaning that invite viewers into his world.
Jasch Caballero (middle) together with (left to right) Ms. May Arlene DG Torres , PHACTO Head, Angelica Laurente, VG Alex Castro representative, Dennis N. Marasigan of CCP, RD Cheng Daenos of DOT Region III and PA Anne Constantino, Governor Daniel Fernando representative. Photo is from Sining sa Hardin
But before he picked up a pen and a brush, Caballero was on a different path. A BA Journalism graduate, he once saw his future in writing rather than painting. When he was in his third year of studying journalism, a turning point occurred. “My teacher told me, ‘If you want to live a long time or if you want people to know what you feel even after you’re gone, make art,'” Caballero recalls. Though changing courses was not an option, this straightforward yet profound statement sparked an inner fire that drove him to follow his true passion.
Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and fuelled by his own self-directed study, Caballero honed his skills through observation, reading, and immersing himself in the works of artists he admired. His influencers, a diverse and inspiring group including Froilan Calayag, Tyler Hays, and Tony Graystone, have shaped his unique style. He finds himself in a dynamic artistic community, collaborating with and drawing inspiration from other talented individuals, including Renjong, Froilan Calayag, Pilo Medina, and Wo Dela Cruz.
Jasch Caballero artwork samples
“I describe my painting style as balanced and free,” Caballero told NEWSCORE. His technique is a unique interplay between acrylics and ink, layering texture and tone to create striking compositions. Each piece carries a part of him—his thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences translated onto canvas.
Every pen and brushstroke, every splash of color, is a reflection of Caballero’s own internal world. “All of them,” he says when asked about his most memorable piece. “Because every piece I create has a part of me, so all of them are memorable.” This sentiment underlines the personal nature of his art, a visual language that transcends mere representation and delves into the depths of his own experiences and emotions.
Like many creatives, Caballero’s biggest challenge has been himself. “My biggest opponent is myself,” he admits. “That’s always the hardest part, but at the same time, it’s the battle I want to face.” Self-doubt, creative blocks, and the pressure to continuously evolve as an artist are struggles he faces daily. But rather than letting them hinder him, he uses them as fuel to push forward, to refine his craft, and to stay true to his artistic voice.
Jasch Caballero artwork samples displayed for the Sining sa Hardin event last March 7-9
Through his vibrant canvases, Caballero seeks to inspire others to embrace their own freedom. “Live freely and correctly,” he advises, a message that echoes through his work. His paintings are a celebration of life, a testament to the transformative power of art, and a reflection of his own journey of self-discovery. Each piece is a vibrant world unto itself, inviting viewers to step into his creative universe.
To aspiring artists, Caballero offers sage advice: “Life is hard, so do what you want to work hard for.” This statement is a call to action, a reminder that passion and perseverance are the driving forces behind any great endeavor. In the world of art, where self-expression is paramount, Caballero’s artistic journey is a testament to the power of following one’s passions.
His story is a proof that passion, persistence, and courage can lead to unexpected yet fulfilling paths. His canvases are more than just painted surfaces—they are a glimpse into his soul, each one a vibrant testament to his journey, struggles, and triumphs.
Through his art, he hopes to inspire others to embrace their creative freedom, take risks, and follow their own unique path—just as he did.
Police Region 3 Director BGen Jean Fajardo pins the Medalya ng Kadakilaan to PSSG Gian George N. Dela Cruz (LEFT) and to PSSG Dennis G. Cudiamat (RIGHT) of Bocaue police station on Wednesday at the 2 police officers’ wake in their houses in the town. Photo by the Bulacan Police Office
Police Region 3 Director BGen Jean Fajardo pins the Medalya ng Kadakilaan to PSSG Gian George N. Dela Cruz (LEFT) and to PSSG Dennis G. Cudiamat (RIGHT) of Bocaue police station on Wednesday at the 2 police officers’ wake in their houses in the town. Photo by the Bulacan Police Office
BOCAUE, Bulacan—The two policemen who were killed while enforcing an anti-illegal firearms operation or the Commission on Election (Comelec) gun ban law in this town were awarded the “Medalya ng Kadakilaan” (Heroism Medal) on Wednesday.
The Medalya ng Kadakilaan, one of the highest honors given to police officers who display exceptional bravery in the face of great danger, were given to the two brave heroes during a solemn tribute to them for the ultimate sacrifice they made in the line of duty.
Police Region 3 Director BGen. Jean Fajardo pinned the medals of heroism on the clothes of PSSg Dennis Cudiamat, 36 and PSSg Gian George Dela Cruz, 45, both intelligence operatives of the Bocaue municipal police station while in the respective wakes of the two officers in their homes in this town.
Fajardo said the two officers are modern heroes because they offered their lives in the protection of the community.
“Their tragic end came during a high-risk buy-bust operation against illegal firearms. The operation turned deadly when armed suspects, refusing to surrender, opened fire on the responding officers. In a courageous stand against lawlessness, PSSg Cudiamat and PSSg Dela Cruz fought valiantly but ultimately fell in the line of duty,” Fajardo addressed the families of the victims during simple awarding ceremonies.
Standing before their grieving families, the regional director vowed that their sacrifice would never be in vain. “These men stood on the frontlines, facing danger head-on so that others could live in peace. Their courage, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to duty will forever be remembered. The Philippine National Police (PNP) will stand by their families, ensuring that they receive the full support they deserve,” she declared.
Fajardo also ordered an intensified crackdown on criminal elements, particularly those involved in illegal firearms and violent crimes.
“We will not let their deaths go unanswered. Justice will be swift. This tragic loss strengthens our resolve to rid our communities of lawlessness and to ensure that no other family suffers this kind of heartbreak,” she added. During her visit, the Regional Director led prayers, provided financial assistance, and personally comforted the bereaved families, reaffirming that they are not alone in their sorrow.
“As the PNP mourns the loss of these two fallen warriors, their legacy of service, courage, and sacrifice will remain etched in the hearts of their fellow officers and the community they so bravely served. Their heroism will never be forgotten,” the regional director also said.
P2.2 million bounty
A P2.2 million reward money is up for the whereabouts of the suspect who killed two policemen in Bocaue town during buy-bust operations against illegal firearms on Saturday.
Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando announced a P2 million worth bounty the Bulacan Provincial Government will give to anyone who could pinpoint where one alias “Athan”, the gunman who killed the two police officers is hiding.
Fernando announced the bounty during the Provincial Peace and Order Council Meeting at the Hiyas Pavilion in this city on Tuesday.
“The P2-million reward we offer is part of the concerted efforts to bring justice to our policemen who were heroes in helping keep the coming May election peaceful and orderly,” the governor said.
Fajardo also earlier released a P100,000 million reward money for the arrest of Athan.
Bocaue Vice Mayor Sherwin Tugna told NEWSCORE on Monday that Mayor Eduardo Villanueva Jr. is giving P100,000 reward money to help hasten the arrest of Athan.
Killed in line of duty
Bulacan Provincial Police Information Office chief, Maj. Jaymalin Udal said the two policemen with fellow troopers were in a buy-bust operation in violation to illegal possession of firearms in relation to the Omnibus Election Code, or the Comelec gun ban law against brothers, alias “Athan” and one alias “Dado” noon time on Saturday, March 8, in Sitio Tugatog, NIA Road, Brgy. Tambubong.
Udal said Athan fired on the police troops and wounded Dela Cruz. Dela Cruz was rushed to the nearest hospital in the town but died three hours later while undergoing treatment.
Athan then, as seen in Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) footage, ran towards a field to elude the police, but he was pursued by Cudiamat. At some 300 meters away, the police officer stopped and parked his motorcycle and when about to alight, was shot by the suspect who came from behind a hidden section on the side of the road where the police officer exactly parked his vehicle.
As also seen in the CCTV footage, Cudiamat had already fallen on the ground but Athan continued firing on him. He then took the motorcycle of the police and escaped.
The rest of the police operatives ran after Dado and arrested him in Bunsuran 2nd, Pandi town. Recovered from him were one Honda Beat motorcycle, one caliber .38 revolver without a serial number, one hand grenade, one Rusi 125 motorcycle with a sidecar, one genuine one-thousand-peso bill used in the buy-bust money, and four boodle money bills.
Recovered in the crime scene were multiple fired cartridge cases, deformed bullets, and a caliber .45 Para Ordnance pistol with a possibly tampered serial number, Udal said.
According to Udal, criminal charges for violations of R.A. 10591 in relation to the Omnibus Election Code, R.A. 9516 (Illegal Possession of Explosives) and a double murder case were already filed against Athan and Dado.
The Comelec through the Philippine National Police enforces a gun ban law from Jan. 12-June 11.
A representative SEM image (false-colored) of Au nanocorals. (Photo credit: Ende et al., 2025)
By: Eunice Jean C. Patron
A representative SEM image (false-colored) of Au nanocorals. (Photo credit: Ende et al., 2025)
Scientists from the University of the Philippines – Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) have pioneered a simpler, faster, cheaper, and more eco-friendly method to fabricate gold nanocorals by using natural, low-cost acids in water at room temperature.
Gold nanostructures have unique properties that depend on their shape. Branched structures resembling tiny corals, particularly gold nanocorals, have been proven valuable in applications such as chemical detection (SERS-based), fluorescence imaging, and catalysis. However, their production often involves complex, costly, and environmentally harmful processes.
Christian Paul Ende, Rufus Mart Ceasar Ramos, Phil Justin Pangilinan, Rogie Bautista, and Dr. Michelle Regulacio of the UPD-CS Institute of Chemistry (IC), along with John Rae Louis Escosio of the UPD-CS Natural Sciences Research Institute (NSRI) and the UPD-CS Materials Science and Engineering Program (MSEP), investigated innovative and eco-friendly ways to produce gold nanocorals.
“The key ingredients involved are biogenic acids that are commonly found in plants. Using the right combination of low-cost biogenic acids, we were able to produce hyperbranched gold nanocorals in water under ambient conditions, with the entire procedure completed in less than an hour,” shared Dr. Regulacio.
The research provides valuable insights into the specific chemical structures, known as functional groups, that play an important role in shaping gold nanocorals into their highly branched forms (hyperbranched morphology). By gaining a deeper understanding of how these functional groups facilitate hyperbranched growth, scientists can better control the formation of these nanostructures.
“This work demonstrates that the creation of complex morphological designs does not necessarily require complicated and expensive fabrication processes,” said Dr. Regulacio. She clarified, however, that the procedure reported in the study does not produce nanocorals from other metals.
The researchers predict that this breakthrough is projected to spur scientific interest in hyperbranched nanomaterials and open up potential applications in various fields.
Their paper, “A systematic study on the use of biogenic acids in directing the hyperbranched growth of Au nanocorals,” was published on CrystEngComm, a journal featuring studies on the design and understanding of solid-state and crystalline materials. The research was funded by the Natural Sciences Research Institute.
———————–The article provided is authorized for use, and represents solely the author’s personal opinions. Please contact us in the event of any potential infringement.
While our love for the special women in our lives knows no season, it’s safe to say that there are certain occasions that best describe how much they mean to us. This Women’s Month, SM Center Pulilan serves as your guide to expressing your love through gifts. Take a closer look and check which among these treasures perfectly fit the best women in your life.
For the Fashionista
Bagel Girl’s stylistic accessories
Because the term “women” is often associated with style, SM Center Pulilan makes room for ForMe, a unique fashion brand that caters to all must-have items for ladies, including trendy bottoms and dresses as well as modern footwear. To complement the look, check out Bagel Girl, a concept store that offers trendy girl accessories fit for any occasion.
For a Homebody
Classy velvet bench in different hues available at HStex Home HStex Home’s animal designed ottoman makes an adorable accent to any room
If she’s a certified “hermit,” HStex Home at SM Center Pulilan is a perfect place to bring her with. The store has an extensive and updated collection ranging from accent chairs, stylish storage stools, multi-functional tables, uniquely designed ottomans, edgy couches, and velvet benches. They also offer outdoor sets, camping chairs, and foldable pet houses, among others.
For the Beauty Queen
Book a pamper session at AiNails and Body Talk
When it comes to self-care, there are a lot of spa-worthy options to choose from at SM Center Pulilan. Book her a visit to AiNails and Body Talk, Gwiyomi Gluta Spa, or Skin Station. If she’s into revamping her looks and style, an appointment at David’s Salon might also be a great idea.
For the Tech-Savvy
The Loop by Power Mac Centeroffers the best in gadgets
Ladies turned tech geeks will love The Loop by Power Mac Center at SM Center Pulilan. It’s the perfect time to gift her those dream gadgets, as the store offers the latest iPhone, MAC, iPad, Watch, TV, audio, and accessories.
For the Fitness Enthusiasts
Give the gift of fitness and avail a membership plan at Danbhels Fitness Gym
Support her fitness goals and plan a visit to Sports Central. The store offers great discounts on high-quality sports and fitness gear she would love. You may also go all out and avail yourself of a membership plan at Danbhels Fitness Gym to kickstart her fitness journey. This all-in-one fitness, fully air-conditioned gym is equipped with clean facilities and modern heavy-duty equipment. Furthermore, Danbhels Fitness Gym also offers personal coaching for members who want to fully achieve their fitness goals.
Let these thoughtful gifts serve as a reminder of how much we value our queens this Women’s Month. For updates and offers dedicated for the month of March, visit the mall’s official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/smcenterpulilan.
##############
———————–The article provided is authorized for use, and represents solely the author’s personal opinions. Please contact us in the event of any potential infringement.
