LUNGSOD NG MALOLOS– Pinangunahan ni Gobernador Daniel R. Fernando ang panunumpa sa tungkulin ni Casey Tyrone Estrella Howard mula sa Lungsod ng Baliwag bilang bagong Pangulo ng Panlalawigang Pederasyon ng Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) ng Lalawigan ng Bulacan sa EDSA Shangri-La, Lungsod ng Mandaluyong kahapon.

Hinikayat ng bagong lider ng kabataan sa lalawigan ang kanyang kapwa opisyal ng SK upang samantalahin ang maikling panahon ng katungkulan upang gumawa ng epekto sa buhay ng kabataan na kanilang mahahawakan at mapagbabago.

“Dalawang taon at ilang buwan na mandato lamang pero wala po iyan sa iksi o haba ng panunungkulan. Let us be more excited to make this short period a really genuinely memorable one for us and our young constituents,” ani Howard.

Pinaalalahanan ni Fernando ang mga lider kabataan na ang kapangyarihan ng mga lingkod bayan ay pahiram lamang ng mga mamamayan at dapat ibalik sa pamamagitan ng matapat at mapagkalingang serbisyo.

“Isang panawagan ang nais kong ipaabot, sana ay simula pa lamang ito ng pag-alab ng inyong pusong makabayan at makatao. Simula pa lamang ito ng inyong pagyakap sa tawag ng serbisyo,” anang gobernador.

Sa kanyang bahagi, binati ni Bise Gob. Alexis C. Castro ang bagong ex-officio member ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan at hiniling na mapagtagumpayan at malampasan niya ang mga inaasahan at pagsubok na kaakibat ng posisyon.

Samantala, ipinarating ni outgoing SK Federation President Robert John Myron Nicolas ang kanyang pagbati sa kanyang kapalit at sinabi na bukas palagi ang kanyang pintuan kung kailangan nila ng tulong at payo.

Kabilang sa iba pang nahalal na mga opisyal ng SK sina Marco Trajano mula sa Santa Maria bilang Pangalawang Pangulo, Jin Marie Mizuse mula sa Lungsod ng Meycauayan bilang Kalihim, Louie Marvin Tomacruz mula sa Paombong bilang Ingat-Yaman, Shaine Trisha Baltazar mula sa Bulakan bilang Tagasuri, Marcuz Gutierrez mula sa Plaridel bilang PRO, at Charles Mananghaya mula sa San Ildefonso at John Lei Delos Reyes mula sa Obando bilang Sergeant-at-Arms.

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CITY OF MALOLOS – Environment protection and conservation should not be neglected, thus the barangays who participated in the 22nd Gawad Galing Barangay submitted entries that push for the preservation not only of the environment but of nature as well.

Five outstanding barangays were chosen and awarded the Natatanging Gawaing Pambarangay including “Barangay Tarcan! Sagip Kalikasan #TodoTodongKitaNgMamamayan” of Tarcan, City of Baliwag; “Bantay/Linis Sapa Program of Lolomboy, Bocaue; “Community Garden/Gulayan Sa Barangay (Balai Luntian)” of Bulihan, Plaridel; “MRF Noon, MRF Ngayon, Mala-Paraiso Sa Tanawin” of Caingin, City of Malolos; and “Pagtalima sa Responsableng Pamamahala sa Basura” of San Isidro II, Paombong. Each received P200,000 and a plaque of recognition.

Also, “Kalusugan ay Kayamanan, Haligi ng Pamayanan” of Loma de Gato, Marilao; “Bayanihan sa Kalinisan Tulay Tungo sa Magandang Kinabukasan” of Bagong Nayon, City of Baliwag; and “Luntiang Kapaligiran, Mag-recycle para sa Kalikasan” of Tambubong, San Rafael were granted with the Trailblazer Award and received P50,000 each and plaque of recognition.

In addition, Brgy. Captain Ariel F. Cabingao from Tarcan, Baliwag was hailed as the Natatanging Punong Barangay and took home P50,000 and a plaque of recognition; Eric A. Caratao of Pinaod, San Ildefonso for Natatanging Kagawad ng Barangay; Barangay Secretary Jessie P. Gata of Balatong A, Pulilan as the Natatanging Kalihim; and Jovito DJ. Calalang of Panducot, Calumpit for Natatanging Ingat-Yaman. They received P20,000 and plaque of recognition each.

For the Natatanging Volunteer Workers, the winners are as follows:  Jenalyn A. Serdeña of Caingin, City of Meycauayan – Natatanging Mother Leader; Imelda V. Lopez of San Jose, Paombong – Natatanging Lingkod Lingap sa Nayon; Myrna C. Borata of Paradise III, City of San Jose Del Monte – Natatanging Barangay Health Worker; and Rosalia A. Ortega of Pulong Gubat, Guiguinto – Natatanging Barangay Training and Employment Coordinator. Each of them received P20,000 and a plaque of recognition.

Meanwhile, the Pinagkaisang Lakas ng Kababaihan (PILAK) of Bunsuran 1st, Pandi was hailed as the Natatanging Volunteer Group and received the Hall of Fame Award with P50,000 and a plaque of recognition.

Also, Josefa P. Cruz of Pinagbarilan, City of Baliwag was given the certificate of appreciation for being the only one finalist for Natatanging Barangay Tanod.

The awarding ceremony held at The Pavilion in Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center here was attended by Department of National Defense Secretary Gilbert C. Teodoro, Jr. represented by USec. Angelito de Leon, Vice Gov. Alexis C. Castro, Cong. Lorna C. Silverio, Obando Mayor Leonardo DC. Valeda, Guiguinto Mayor Agatha Paula A. Cruz, PCOL Relly B. Arnedo of Bulacan Police Provincial Office and Board Members Ramilito B. Capistrano, Cezar L. Mendoza, Romina D. Fermin, Raul Mariano, Renato DL. de Guzman, Jr., Allan Dale DC. Baluyut, Lee Edward V. Nicolas, Romeo V. Castro, Jr., and William R. Villarica.

In his message delivered by De Leon, Teodoro challenged the attendees specially the winners to continue to serve for the betterment of their constituents and of the province.

“Isa ang Bulacan sa mga natatanging probinsiya ng Pilipinas bilang tahanan ng unang republika ng Pilipinas at saksi sa mga mahahalagang yugto ng kasaysayan ng ating bansa, malaki ang kontribusyon ng mga Bulakenyo sa ating nakaraan ngunit lalo na sa ating tatahaking kinabukasan.  Kaya naman para sa mga nagwagi sa GGB ngayong taon, nawa’y patuloy ninyong ginamit ang kahusayan, serbisyo, pagtutulungan at pagkakaisa upang mas mapaunlad ang pinakamamahal nating Bulacan. Nawa’y ang parangal na ito ay maging binhi na inyo pang mapauusbong sa mga darating na panahon. Saludo kami sa inyong pagsusumikap na magbigay ng epektibong solusyon  sa mga suliranin  at hamon ng inyong komunidad,” the secretary of defense said.

GGB is a project under the Bulacan Awards Program for Barangay Innovation and Excellence (BAPBIE) of the Provincial Government of Bulacan through the Provincial Planning and Development Office that aims to recognize the contribution of barangays in the development of the province.

MANILA – In observance of World AIDS Day on December 1, a network of advocates on Wednesday launched a media guide on HIV that will help Filipino journalists and media outlets produce ‘truthful, empowering, and human rights-based’ reporting on the issue. HIV stands for the human immunodeficiency virus. 

‘Empowered Stories: Media Guide on HIV Reporting’ contains up-to-date information about HIV in the Philippines as an effort to encourage members of the media to veer away from sensationalized reporting.

“Sensationalizing and assuming shame in HIV reporting prevent people from getting tested and availing treatment,” said Anastacio Marasigan, President of TLF SHARE Collective, Inc., one of the organizations behind the media guide. 

In the latest data released by the Department of Health- Epidemiology Bureau, the country posted the fastest growing HIV epidemic in Asia and the Pacific region with a 418% change in new infections between 2010 and 2022 and 518% change in AIDS-related deaths between the same period. There are now an estimated 164,400 people living with HIV in the country and 24,400 new infections are estimated to be added in 2022 alone, and nearly half (47%) are among the youth ages 15-24 years old. 

“Public conversations surrounding HIV should inform the public of the latest developments and equip them, especially the youth, with accurate information to protect themselves,” he added. 

‘Visibility is Key’

The media guide is part of the larger ‘Visibility is Key’ campaign, together with a series of videos featuring PLHIVs from different backgrounds. “The campaign seeks to break down barriers by putting a spotlight on the lives of courageous individuals who have been living with HIV and leading the country’s HIV response,” said Dr. Louie Ocampo, Country Director of UNAIDS Philippines. 

“Persons living with HIV can lead healthy and happy lives and can contribute to nation-building,” he added. “Highlighting their stories will dispel misconceptions, foster empathy, and create an environment of acceptance.” 

Letting communities be seen and lead

Mara Quesada, Executive Director of Action for Health Initiatives, Inc. (ACHIEVE), said that it will be difficult to address the rising incidence of HIV in the country without the meaningful participation of affected communities in decision-making processes, including in development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of HIV programs and services. 

“Understanding the realities faced by affected communities helps ensure that the national HIV response is relevant and effective. It is time to let communities be seen and lead. It is time to change genres in storytelling about HIV from horror stories into stories of hope. We need a stronger stance against stigma and discrimination,” she added.

“Fostering a climate of openness for dialogue and education is the media’s unique contribution to achieving a world without AIDS by 2030,” Dr. Ocampo also said. 

The vibrant culinary landscape at SM City Grand Central has just become even more tantalizing with the grand opening of Yabu: House of Katsu. Since its much-anticipated launch, this haven for katsu aficionados has swiftly emerged as the go-to lunch and dinner destination, captivating palates with its mouthwatering offerings and delectable signature dishes.

Distinguishing itself from conventional katsu establishments, Yabu’s kitchen is helmed by Chef Kazuya Takeda, the maestro behind Tonkatsu Takeshin, one of Tokyo’s finest tonkatsu establishments. Chef Takeda has infused his expertise into every dish, ensuring that each bite of the juicy pork and beef cutlets, succulent prawns, and other seafood is a symphony of flavors and textures.

Yabu stands out not only for its expertly crafted katsu but also for the immersive dining experience it offers. The House of Katsu promises a complete culinary journey. Every katsu set is served with Japanese rice, hot miso soup, unlimited shredded cabbage, and a refreshing bowl of fruit.

But the experience doesn’t stop there. Yabu also invites diners to embark on a culinary adventure by crafting their own personalized katsu sauce. Each table is adorned with a mini mortar and pestle, allowing guests to grind toasted sesame seeds into Yabu’s signature katsu sauce, ensuring a dipping experience tailored to individual tastes.

Embracing a culinary partnership with Michelin-Bib Gourmand-starred Chef Kazuya Takeda, Yabu’s commitment to authenticity shines through. Yabu does not just promise a meal; it presents an authentic Japanese experience that transports diners to the bustling streets of Japan.

Yabu: House of Katsu invites Manila’s gastronomes to embark on a culinary escapade where tradition meets innovation and every dish is a celebration of flavor. Experience the culinary artistry of Yabu: House of Katsu at the upper ground of SM City Grand Central.

Earth Island Institute Asia-Pacific

Quezon City, Philippines – November 30, 2023 – With heavy hearts, the Earth Island Institute Philippines (EIIPH) mourns the loss of Mali (Vishwamali), the beloved Asian elephant who graced the Manila Zoo for over four decades. The gentle giant passed away on November 28, 2023, at an estimated age of 43.

Vishwamali (Mali) was a captive elephant. She was taken from her family in Sri Lanka at the age of three and brought to the Manila Zoo in 1977 as a gift to then-First Lady Imelda Marcos. Her life was confined within the boundaries of a small, barren enclosure, a stark contrast to the vast landscapes and rich social connections that define an elephant’s natural existence.

EIIPH, a staunch advocate for animal welfare, firmly believes that wild animals, like Mali, belong in their natural habitats, not as captive spectacles for human amusement. Elephants, the epitome of social cohesion, forge deep bonds within their families and herds. They traverse vast territories in search of sustenance and companionship, their complex communication relying on a symphony of vocalizations and body language. Confining these majestic creatures to sterile enclosures is a cruel deprivation of their innate behaviors and the fulfillment they deserve.

Asian elephants are classified as endangered in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and play a vital role in the ecosystem. They keep ecological balance through eating some species of plants and spreading the seeds of some.They also create trails through grazing and trampling that act as forest fire control lines. Mali could have done a better service to the ecosystem in the wild than in the zoo for so-called “educational purposes”.

The wildlife trade, fueled by the demand for exotic animals, continues to threaten the existence of elephants in the wild. Zoos, despite their claims of conservation, contribute to this exploitation by acquiring animals through various means, including direct capture, captive breeding, and inter-zoo exchanges.

EIIPH, with a deep sense of compassion, calls upon the Manila Zoo to cease its operations and release its remaining animals to sanctuaries where they can experience true freedom and dignity. We also implore the public to refrain from patronizing zoos and instead support organizations dedicated to protecting wildlife in their natural sanctuaries.

“We are in grief when we heard of the untimely death of “Mali”. Her life and all other animals in captivity just like dolphins are analogous – they lead sad, wasted lives for shallow human entertainment.” said Ms. Trixie Concepcion, Regional Director of Earth Island Institute Asia-Pacific

Mali’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the detrimental impact of captive wildlife exhibits. Her story should resonate with the public, urging them to embrace a more humane and compassionate approach to wild animals. Let us honor Mali’s memory by advocating for a world where wild animals are cherished and protected in their rightful domains.

UPD-CS Science Communications

UP scientists are bringing an almost 300-year-old math discipline to life-saving relevance in the 21st Century, paving the way for better and more efficient relief operations in response to typhoons.

First formally described in the early 1700s by the Swiss mathematician and physicist Leonhard Euler, the discipline now known as “network science” was earlier applied to the problem of figuring out the most efficient way to visit a set of destinations—the so-called “traveling salesman” problem.

Using network science for disaster relief

Now, as UP scientists have shown, this powerful branch of mathematics can be used to improve disaster relief efforts after a typhoon. In network science, lines that connect two points are called edges, while the points at which the lines intersect are called nodes. Together, edges and nodes make up a graph, which can be applied to a variety of modeling applications including disaster relief.

Dr. May T. Lim and Dr. Reinabelle C. Reyes of the UP Diliman National Institute of Physics (UP-CS NIP), with independent researcher JC Albert C. Peralta, used these concepts to model transport networks: by representing roads and sea routes as edges and the intersections between roads and sea routes as nodes, they were able to calculate the best ways to distribute relief goods.

To simulate how relief operations move through different towns and districts, the researchers first pinpointed the food hubs from where relief packages are first received. They then simulated the relief packages moving outwards from these hubs to the edges and nodes, like water flowing through a network of pipes.  As part of their model, they also assigned each edge with a travel time, or the time it takes for a vehicle to traverse the road segment or sea route. This allowed them to calculate how long it would take for relief to reach different destinations.

Visayas: Proof of concept

The researchers tested their model on the Visayas region using geographic data from Google Maps, OpenStreetMap, and other publicly-accessible sources. Their model showed that Region 8, particularly in Northern and Eastern Samar, is the most vulnerable to relief delivery delays, taking as much as 12 hours for relief packages to arrive from the food hubs to these districts.

The researchers then simulated how typhoon damages affect relief operations, by randomly removed nodes to mimic impassable roads. Their simulation of the Visayas transport network revealed the extent of its vulnerability: when even just 1% of the total nodes became inaccessible, 30 out of 251 towns became disconnected from the main network. More worryingly, almost all towns in the region became inaccessible when only just 5% of all nodes were shut down.

“We emphasize the need for a more decentralized and proactive form of relief logistics such as prepositioning relief goods, especially in or nearer to towns most vulnerable to disconnection,” the researchers cautioned.

Nationwide applicability

Although the model was only tested on the Visayas transport network system, the researchers underscored its potential application to all network systems in the Philippines. To showcase this usefulness, they made a prototype app that offers a user-friendly approach for the public. Currently, only the Visayas network system is available, but more transport networks are expected to be available as more data is brought into the model. They also said that the model’s accuracy and usefulness could be improved by using data based on actual rather than hypothetical damage.

The UP physicists’ work demonstrates how network science can aid in disaster response and preparedness. “It is our hope that policymakers will harness this potential for informed decision-making, strategic cost-benefit analysis for infrastructure investments, and effective data-driven transportation planning to enhance resilience in the face of future disasters,” the researchers concluded.

As the 28th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) begins in Dubai, UAE, the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED) stressed that the Philippines must press weight to ensure a COP that bends the rod to a global energy transition aligned to 1.5°C.
 
COP 28 is seen as a pivotal moment in global climate negotiations, as it features the culmination of the first Global Stocktake.
 
“There could have been no better timing for an assessment of national climate commitments to take center stage than during the year that’s set to be the hottest in history. We know that actions being done to reduce emissions and address gaps are nowhere near enough to meet the 1.5°C threshold, even in our own country. As COP opens, there is a real opportunity and imperative to take action and address this,” explained Avril De Torres, Deputy Executive Director of CEED.
 
In the lead up to COP 28, civil society and global leaders have been actively calling for the Global Stocktake to guide the delivery of an energy transition package that accelerates the deployment of renewables towards a 100% transition, puts and end to fossil fuel expansion, commences a full and just phaseout of fossil fuels, and ensures the delivery of climate finance to developing nations – all to keep the 1.5°C target within reach.
 
“While the Philippines’ COP 28 delegation earlier on said that it intends to call for urgent climate action and will pay particular attention to loss and damage conversations at COP among other matters, it must also lend its voice to the call for a just and rapid move away from fossil fuels and a full shift to renewables aligned to 1.5°C. We are guided by the memory of the destruction from Typhoon Yolanda, which happened exactly ten years ago this year, in understanding that failure to end the age of fossil fuel dependence will only lead to more loss and damage. It will be a grave disservice to Filipinos if the Philippine delegation chooses to keep its mouth shut on keeping the 1.5°C goal,” explained De Torres.
The Philippine government is seen as placing high stakes on this year’s climate talks with the opening of the first Philippine pavilion. Until the day before COP 28, President Marcos was also slated to participate at COP but withdrew due to an emergency situation involving Filipinos in the Red Sea.
 
“The President may no longer be attending COP, but there is no lack of opportunity for him and the administration to prioritize climate action back home. Putting an end to the Philippines’ push for massive additional fossil fuel use, particularly with gas, is an urgent policy shift that can get us on track to 1.5°C-compatibility. For a country where 100% renewable energy transition is possible to achieve with haste, securing the requirements and will to make it happen will be the greatest testimony the administration can leave to exhibit its dedication to the climate cause,” said De Torres.
 
Ahead COP 28, CEED commissioned a study by Climate Analytics which found that a full renewable energy transition is feasible for the Philippines by no later than 2040, and can bring socio-economic benefits to Filipinos. Coal and gas need to be phased out by no later than 2035 and 2040, respectively. Contrary to this, the Philippines is welcoming massive new capacities for gas and LNG, and is thus set to contribute to more methane emissions. The country is a signatory to the Methane Pledge, which is also expected to figure in at the COP 28 climate talks.

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