Bee nests are a marvel of natural engineering that have inspired human engineers and inventors for centuries. Now, Filipino researchers are investigating ways to create porous materials that not only mimic the strengths of beehives but are also able to selectively trap microparticles. These new materials have potential uses in everything from water purifiers to medical sensors.

Jonathan Patricio, Gillian Kathryn Yap, Jose Jesus Gayosa, and Dr. Susan Arco of the UP Diliman College of Science’s Institute of Chemistry (UPD-CS IC) and colleagues from the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) were able to control the physical properties of porous polyvinyl chloride (PVC) films by adjusting the drying temperature used in the manufacturing process.

The PVC is formed around droplets of water which, when they evaporate, leave a pattern of microscopic holes reminiscent of a bee’s nest. Such honeycomb structures have long been recognized for their engineering applications:

“One of the most interesting structures inspired by nature is the honeycomb pattern… Its unique properties and structure inspired the construction of light and robust aircraft and spacecraft, protection gear, panels, packaging, and cushioning because of an ability to absorb impact and energy,” the researchers explained in their paper.

“The repeating units of a honeycomb pattern can also effectively trap particles and impurities thus making them a promising structure for air and water filters,” they added.

The researchers also explored the wettability of the various honeycomb PVC materials they created, as well as the potential of selectively trapping microparticles by subjecting the honeycomb to an electric charge.

The study “opens the possibility of integrating polymeric honeycomb structures into substrates used for microparticle trapping, sensing, and other related applications,” the researchers concluded.

For interview requests and other concerns, please contact media@science.upd.edu.ph.

Binigyang-diin ni Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, principal sponsor at author ng Doktor Para Sa Bayan Act, na ang pagpasa ng mga panukalang batas na magtatatag ng limang dagdag na medical school sa bansa ay makakatulong para mabawasan ang kakulangan sa mga doktor at matugunan ang pangangailangan sa kalusugan ng mga Pilipino.

Ngayong magkakaroon ng dagdag na mga paaralan para sa mga nais maging doktor, umaasa si Villanueva na maaabot na ng Pilipinas ang ideal ratio na itinakda ng World Health Organization (WHO) na 10 doktor kada 10,000 populasyon. 

“Marami pong nangangarap maging doktor pero walang pampaaral. Kailangang bigyang-daan po ng gobyerno na maabot ang pangarap ng ating mga kabataang kapos ngunit may kakayahan,” sabi ni Villanueva.

Sa pamamagitan ng Republic Act No. 11509 o Doktor Para Sa Bayan Act, 17 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) sa 13 na rehiyon ay nag-aalok na ngayon ng kursong medikal sa ilalim ng kanilang College of Medicine mula sa walong SUCs sa pitong rehiyon bago ang pagpasa ng batas.

Sa ilalim ng R.A. No. 11509, bawat rehiyon ay dapat mayroong isang SUC na mag-aalok ng kursong medikal sa loob ng limang taon mula nang maging epektibo ang batas. Layunin din nitong humikayat ng marami pang kwalipikadong mag-aaral na maging doktor sa pamamagitan ng libreng matrikula, aklat, at iba pang allowances.

Nakasaad din sa batas na kailangang magserbisyo ng mga iskolar sa public health facilities ng isang taon para sa bawat scholarship year na kanilang nakuha.

“When we passed the Doktor Para Sa Bayan Law, we did not aim only to have more scholars, but also to increase the number of SUCs that will offer medical courses, and this is what we are pursuing now,” ani Villanueva.

Nagpahayag ng suporta ang Majority Leader kay Senador Chiz Escudero, chairperson ng Senate Committee on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education at sponsor ng mga panukala. Nakatakdang ipasa ang mga ito sa ikatlo at pinal na pagbasa sa Lunes, Setyembre 25.

Iminumungkahi ng mga panukala na magtayo ng College of Medicine sa Benguet State University, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-South La Union Campus, Southern Luzon State University, Visayas State University, at University of Eastern Philippines.

Ayon pa kay Villanueva, nasa matinding pangangailangan ang bansa ng mga medical professional para mapaglingkuran ang lumalaking populasyon at bilang paghahanda sa hinaharap laban sa mga sakit kasunod ng COVID-19 pandemic.

Nauna nang sinabi ng Department of Health na mahigit 114,000 pang mga doktor at 127,000 nurses ang kinakailangan para maibigay ang pinakamainam na pangangalagang pangkalusugan sa mga Pilipino.

“Sabi po ng maraming bata, gusto nilang mag-doktor.  Dapat po may eskwelahan sa lugar nila kung saan pwede mag-aral, at kung kwalipikado, dapat po libre. Dito, hindi po mawawala ang pangarap nilang maging tagapagligtas ng buhay,” sabi pa ni Villanueva. 

Pasig City – Public interest law group ImagineLaw on Monday invited Filipino journalists to produce stories and reports through a media fellowship that will shed light on the advertising and marketing of unhealthy food to children. 

“Unhealthy food marketing harms children,” said ImagineLaw Executive Director Atty. Sophia San Luis. “It increases their risk of being overweight or obese and leads to other diet-related diseases,” she added, citing a study by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). 

The said media fellowship, dubbed as ‘Bawas Patalastas’, seeks to deepen the public’s understanding about the issue and initiate conversations through stories, features, or reports.  The fellowship will accept seven (7) Filipino journalists, called ‘Fellows’, who will receive a grant of up to PHP 60,000 for research, editing, and publication of their desired stories. 

The fellowship is open to all journalists, whether employed by a media outlet or freelancer, who work in television, print, radio, and online. 

“Media plays an important role in creating an environment that encourages children to make healthy choices,” San Luis said. “The stories and reports produced by the Fellows will help us craft a policy proposal that will regulate unhealthy food marketing targeting children,”

Interested journalists can apply through https://bit.ly/ILMediaFellowship until October 5, 2023. On top of the cash grant, the Fellows will also receive briefings and review sessions from experts and fellow journalists on the topic. 

The Fellowship proper is from November to December of this year and is being conducted in partnership with Gugma PR, a public relations group helping advocates, movements, and changemakers build impact through empathic communications.

NO DRAMA, JUST STRAIGHT FACTS!

Hindi po ito gawa-gawa ng kathang isip, kitang kita na po sa mga litrato at video ang tahasang pambabastos at kawalan ng respeto ng China sa karapatang soberenya ng Pilipinas. Kaibigan pa ba na matatawag ang isang bully na patuloy na sinasamantala ang relasyon ng dalawang bansa? 

Patuloy pa rin po ang panghihimasok ng Chinese Coast Guard sa ating exclusive economic zone at ang pinakahuli nga po ay itong paglalagay ng floating barriers sa southeast portion ng Scarborough Shoal. Malaki po ang dagok na dulot nito sa kabuhayan ng ating mga mangingisda na umaasa sa karagatan para sa kanilang kabuhayan. 

Ang Scarborough Shoal o Bajo de Masinloc ay matatagpuan 124 nautical miles sa kanluran ng Zambales kaya malinaw na nasa loob ito ng Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) ng Pilipinas.

Kaisa po tayo ng Presidente Bongbong Marcos sa paniniwalang prayoridad ang agarang pagpasa ng Philippine Maritime Zones Act na naglalayong magdeklara ng mga maritime zones na nasa pamamahala ng Pilipinas kabilang ang internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, EEZ at continental shelf. Kasama rin po ang panukalang ito sa tinalakay na kabilang sa LEDAC priority measures na target maipasa ngayong taon.

They say photographs preserve lifelong memories. These captured moments remind us of the people and places that have become a part of us, eventually becoming a priceless treasure that we keep for as long as we can.

Flordeliza Taña, a 53-year-old native of Davao City, likes capturing all kinds of images. As a result, when she met her photographer spouse, her career path was altered. She quit her job as an office secretary and started a business in photography.

She was hesitant at first, but she has grown to love her new journey with the help of her husband. She was able to do what she enjoyed while earning a living and provide for their two kids.

In 2001, they rented a tiny stall in Agdao to enable them to keep operating their business. However, in 2013, the industry’s competition tightened even further, making it difficult for them to attract customers. The rental space was subsequently lost as a result of this.

Starting over was difficult for them. Fortunately, they found a cheaper stall for rent along San Pedro Street and were approved of a loan from CARD Bank, a microfinance-oriented rural bank. They used the loan to acquire a computer and printer. Additionally, the institution approved an educational loan for their children to support them in college. They graduated and are now employed in their different fields.

“My proudest moment as a mother is that I have been able to send my kids to college, and as a bonus, we are currently renovating our home,” Flordeliza said.

Currently, they are now the official photographers for nine different schools in Davao City. They still cater photography services for wedding and baptism not only in their hometown, but also in Tagum City and General Santos City.

Years from now, she hopes to continue capturing special moments for their customers in a space they can call their own. “With the continued support of our trusted CARD Bank, we believe that we will soon expand our business.”

More than a bank client

Flordeliza is also an active client who participates in the various activities that CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI) launches. During the pandemic, when CARD MRI introduced its “Ugnayan at Kwentuhan” program to keep clients and their families productive despite the community lockdowns, Flordeliza encouraged her co-clients to join the different activities.

Their center, Waling-Waling, was hailed as the grand winner for the “Sikat Ang Center Ko” where they performed a speech choir. They also tried their luck in the SineMaya 2022 Community Short Film Fest where they bagged major and minor awards, including the 2^nd Best Film and the Founder’s Excellence Award. But for Flordeliza, one award stood out.

“Never in my wildest dreams did I think about fulfilling one of my dreams, especially at my age now. CARD MRI has taught me to continue dreaming because there will always be an opportunity for it to come true,” Flordeliza said in a speech after accepting the Best Actress Award.

Aptly titled “Ngiti sa likod ng mga lente,” the short film she directed and starred in captured her personal story of her journey as a photographer.

“At CARD MRI, we are encouraged to discover our endless potentials as individuals. We must always grab the chance whenever we can,” Flordeliza concluded.

[Manila, Sept 23] – The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) held a crucial meeting with Assistant Commissioner of the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Jet Maronilla, to address and clarify the BOC’s policies concerning the importation of electric vehicles. The meeting, which took place last Sept 23, was pivotal in ensuring a seamless and efficient process for importing electric vehicles into the Philippines.

During the meeting, Assistant Commissioner Jet Maronilla emphasized the significance of correct classification as he acknowledged the unique challenges faced by the BOC due to the youthfulness of the electric vehicle industry in the Philippines. He stated that the BOC is in the midst of overcoming these initial challenges, as the electric vehicle industry is rapidly expanding, thanks to the recent implementation of the EVIDA law.

EVAP President, Edmund Araga, announced that EVAP is committed to working towards the exemption of EVAP member companies from the BOC’s Import Assessment System (IAS). This initiative aims to streamline the clearance process, making it more efficient for EVAP members. Subject to usual post clearance audit process.

EVAP Chairman Rommel Juan expressed optimism about the proactive approach taken by EVAP and the BOC to clarify importation policies at this early stage of the electric vehicle industry’s growth. This collaboration aims to pave the way for a smoother and more efficient importation process for electric vehicles, ensuring that this transformative industry continues to flourish in the Philippines.

Manila, Philippines – September 15, 2023 – Director Patrick Aquino of the Department of Energy (DOE) has announced that the electric vehicle (EV) industry in the Philippines is experiencing significant growth. With an increasing number of EVs available in the market and a surge in individual interest, Director Aquino believes that the value proposition of EVs is becoming increasingly evident, especially in light of rising oil prices and growing concerns about air pollution.

Director Aquino made these remarks ahead of the 11th Philippine EV Summit, where industry leaders and stakeholders are set to converge to discuss the future of EVs in the country. He emphasized that this summit will serve as a platform to solidify the development of the EV industry in the Philippines, highlighting the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors.

“The DOE, as the lead agency under EVIDA, will marshal its efforts to ensure the successful implementation of EV initiatives,” Director Aquino stated. “We are committed to driving the growth of the EV industry in the Philippines and providing a cleaner, more sustainable transportation alternative for our citizens.”

One of the key developments highlighted by Director Aquino is the positive news for charging station companies. Under EVIDA (Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act), accredited Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) providers with registered EVCS, whose charging fees comply with unbundling requirements, are now permitted to collect charging fees. The DOE has issued guidelines for this initiative, which include a six-month transition period set to expire on December 6, 2023.

Director Aquino further emphasized the DOE’s commitment to supporting the EV industry by issuing an advisory next month to remind all stakeholders of the importance of accreditation, registration, and proper notification of unbundling fees. This effort aims to ensure the smooth and efficient transition to a more sustainable transportation landscape in the Philippines.

As the EV industry continues to gain momentum in the Philippines, Director Patrick Aquino and the DOE are at the forefront of these transformative changes, working collaboratively with the private sector to accelerate and strengthen the country’s EV industry. With the upcoming 11th Philippine EV Summit on the horizon, there is no doubt that the future of electric mobility in the Philippines is bright.

ANGELES City – The Social Security System (SSS) beefed up its campaign against delinquent employers through the conduct of Run After Contributions Evaders (RACE) campaign last August 23, 2023. 

The SSS RACE team visited eight employers with outstanding contribution delinquencies. These employers received written notices instructing them to coordinate with their assigned account officers and settle their delinquencies within the non-extendible 15-day period. 

“While conducting this operation, we noticed that many businesses were struggling to make timely contribution payments due to financial constraints. Acknowledging these difficulties, we want to instill in the employers that they are accountable for their legal obligations while providing them with the necessary support to settle their delinquencies,” said SSS Vice President of the Luzon Central 2 Division Gloria Corazon M. Andrada. 

Employers who were visited during the operation can apply for the Contribution Penalty Condonation, Delinquency Management, and Restructuring Program (CPCoDe MRP) to settle their delinquency in full or installment ranging from 12 to 48 months depending on the amount. 

Andrada added that the employers have expressed their gratitude for the assistance programs offered by the SSS and have pledged to settle their delinquencies within the given period. 

The successful conduct of RACE campaign in Angeles City marks the second operation conducted by the SSS Angeles Branch in 2023 with target collection of P6.25 million benefiting 77 employees. 

Andrada also announced the launch of the Calamity Assistance Program for SSS members and pensioners affected by the southwest monsoon and Typhoon Egay. 

“In order to become eligible for the calamity loan, members should have at least 36 monthly contributions, six of which should be posted within the last 12 months prior to the month of application. Therefore, ensuring regular and timely remittance of contributions is crucial for employees to qualify for benefits and loan privileges,” Andrada concluded. 

Aside from the calamity loan, Social Security (SS) and Employees’ Compensation (EC) pensioners residing in NDRRMC-declared calamity areas can avail of the three-month advance pension under the SSS Calamity Assistance Program.

We are on track in terms of the passage of the priority measures of this Administration. Out of the 20 priority bills that should be passed by the end of this year, the Senate has already passed three measures on third reading: Trabaho Para Sa Bayan Act, LGU Income Classification Act and the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act. This week, three additional bills were passed on second reading, which are the Ease of Paying Taxes Act, Internet Transactions Act and the New Philippine Passport Act. Before the Senate goes on break next week, our goal is to pass the Public-Private Partnership Act, Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers Act and the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act. 

Aside from this, additional measures were added to the list of priority measures of this Administration, including the Excise Tax on Single-Use Plastics, Amendments to the Government Procurement Reform Act and Philippine Maritime Zones Act. The passage of the Philippine Maritime Zone Act is very timely as the Philippines continues to assert its rights over the West Philippine Sea.

The Senate has a huge task at hand and we thank each of our colleagues for taking an active role in ensuring that we are not only able to meet our targets, but also that all bills that passed are thoroughly studied and discussed. We are in full support of the administration’s goals especially in crafting laws to generate employment and uplift the quality of life of every Filipino.

MALOLOS, Bulacan–The Luzon Central 2 Division of the Social Security System (SSS) participated in the nationwide simultaneous celebration of Pensioners’ Day on September 8, 2023. 

The event was attended by 302 pensioners, along with the Branch officials and staff, headed by Luzon Central 2 Division Vice President Gloria Corazon M. Andrada. 

“As we celebrate the 66^th anniversary of SSS this September, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to our members, employers, and especially our pensioners who have honored us with their presence. We are truly grateful for the trust they have placed in SSS, which has allowed them to enjoy the benefits in return,” Andrada said. 

Andrada also awarded cash prizes to four pensioners who received pension benefits for a long period of time. 

A pensioner joyfully expressed that she had been receiving pensions for over 30 years, exemplifying the long-standing commitment of SSS to its members. 

The program featured captivating intermission numbers that brought joy and entertainment to the pensioners who were present. Also, 21 lucky pensioners were chosen to receive prizes through raffle draws. 

One highlight of the event was the provision of medical consultation services led by Supervising Medical Specialist IV of SSS Luzon Central Medical Operations Section Dr. Ferdinand Damo. The medical team also distributed prescribed medicines and essential vitamins to the pensioners. 

SSS Malolos Branch also assisted the participants with SSS concerns as well as retirement pensioners who wanted to avail of the Pension Loan Program. 

The PLP was launched to assist retirement pensioners in their short-term financial needs by offering a loan at a low-interest rate of 10% per annum. Qualified pensioners can apply for a loan equivalent to 3, 6, 9, or 12 times of their basic monthly pension plus the P1,000 additional benefit, but not exceeding the maximum amount of P200,000.