Halal foods as a PH tourism booster

Philippines looks to ‘halal ecosystem’ to boost tourism, trade

Ellie Aben
Arab  News (Saudi Arabia)
06 July 2024

MANILA: The Philippines is developing a “halal ecosystem” to try and boost tourism and trade, according to the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, as the country targets more commercial exchanges with Arab and Muslim countries.

There are only around 10 million Muslims among the nearly 120 million, predominantly Catholic, population of the Philippines, but the country is looking to expand its domestic halal industry considerably.

The government wants to raise 230 billion pesos ($4 billion) in investments and generate around 120,000 jobs by 2028 by tapping into the global halal market, which is estimated to be worth more than $7 trillion.

The NCMF, a government agency whose mandate is to promote the rights and welfare of Muslim Filipinos, is central to ensuring that the products and initiatives developed under the country’s halal drive comply with Islamic regulations.

“Since NCMF is the only (Islamic) religious institution in the government structure, NCMF should lead in the implementation of programs and activities pertaining to halal,” Sabbudin Abdurahim, the commission’s new secretary, told Arab News this week.

“The NCMF is now spearheading the implementation of programs and activities for the development ... Through collaboration with partner stakeholders, we are looking to establish a halal ecosystem in the Philippines.”

The commission is cooperating with other government agencies — including the Department of Trade, Department of Agriculture, and Department of Tourism — as the Philippines seeks to expand the market presence of its halal-certified products, which include not only food and beverage products and services, but also travel.

Since the Philippines won the Emerging Muslim-friendly Destination award at the Halal in Travel Global Summit in 2023, it has invested significantly to attract visitors from the Middle East and the nearby Muslim-majority countries of Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei, particularly by ensuring that they have access to halal products and services.

Without developing a halal ecosystem, many potential visitors from Arab and Muslim countries might choose to visit other countries like Malaysia instead, “because they are confident they can easily find halal food there, unlike in the Philippines,” Abdurahim said.

“If we have halal restaurants here in the Philippines, many visitors from Arab or Muslim countries will come here ... Our halal division is already meeting with hotels, restaurants, and other establishments (about collaborating).”

Abdurahim sees the expansion of the halal industry as beneficial for all of Philippine society.

“It will benefit not only the Muslims in the Philippines, but the economy in general,” he said.

Japan’s Miss Supranational 2024 bet is part-Filipino actress Yuki Sonoda

Japan’s Miss Supranational 2024 bet is part-Filipino actress Yuki Sonoda

Armin P. Adina

Inquirer.net

06 July 2024

Aside from Philippine bet Alethea Ambrosio, another participant in the 2024 Miss Supranational pageant has Filipino roots, Japan’s Yuki Sonoda.

Sonoda was crowned Miss Supranational Japan in Tokyo in May, but she is not new to pageantry, both national and international.

In 2017, she represented Japan in the Manila-based Miss Asia Pacific International pageant held in the Philippines. She advanced to the Top 10 of the competition.

In 2020, she competed in the Miss Universe Japan pageant, where she was proclaimed as second runner-up.

Sonoda had already embarked on a career in the local entertainment and modeling scene in Manila before she earned her pageant title.

She was one of the six finalists for the “Supra Talent” contest at the 2024 competition, currently running in Poland, where she sang a Japanese song.

No Japanese woman has ever brought home the Miss Supranational crown, and Sonoda hopes to score the first victory for the Land of the Rising Sun.

The 2024 Miss Supranational pageant will hold its coronation show at the Strzelecki Park Amphitheater in Nowy Sacz on July 6 (July 7 in Manila). Ecuadorian beauty Andrea Aguilera will relinquish her title to the winner.

PH biosphere reserve in new Unesco list

PH biosphere reserve in new Unesco list

Story by Aric John Sy Cua 

Manila Times

06 July 2024

MANILA, Philippines — A biosphere reserve in the Philippines is on the list of 11 new reserves, after it was approved by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) on Friday.

Located in Apayao province, the yApayaos Biosphere Reserve consists of two distinct regions -- Lower and Upper Apayao.

"This biosphere reserve in the Province of Apayao is divided into two distinct regions: the Upper Apayao sports rugged terrain with towering peaks, plateaus and valleys, whereas the Lower Apayao features flatlands adorned with rolling hills and plateaus," Unesco said in its website. "Stretching 180 kilometers, the majestic Apayao River serves as a vital watershed, nurturing 18 tributaries across the province."

The name "yApayaos", as described by Unesco, was "a name that encompasses both the people and diverse flora and fauna living in the area".

Unesco also mentioned the biosphere reserve's ethnolinguistic groups and its 10 Indigenous Cultural Communities, that also included the Isneg community, which comprises 30 percent of its population of 124,366.

The yApayaos biosphere reserve, which spans 3,960 square kilometers, also engages in rice and corn cultivation, with ecotourism also progressing in Apayao.

Other biosphere reserves in the list include the Changnyeong Biosphere Reserve in South Korea, the Julian Alps Transboundary Biosphere Reserve in Italy and Slovenia, Kempen-Broek Transboundary Biosphere Reserve in Belgium and the Netherlands, and the Val d'Aran and the Irati Biosphere Reserves in Spain.

Filipina model crowned Miss New York USA 2024

Filipina Model Marizza Delgado Is Crowned Miss New York USA 2024

Story by Katrina Maisie Cabral
Preview.ph
06 July 2024

A Pinay beauty queen is making waves overseas once again! Miss New York USA has named its newest titleholder for 2024, the Filipino-American model Marizza Delgado.

Filipina Model Marizza Delgado Is Crowned Miss New York USA 2024.

In a ceremony held in Albany, New York on June 30, the 25-year-old Marizza Delgado was crowned as the state’s representative for Miss USA, where she was chosen among 170 contestants.

The beauty queen, who wore a bedazzled number with cut-outs on its form, was visibly elated during the night of the crowning. 

"I’m your Miss New York USA 2024 [crown emoji]," the beauty queen wrote in an Instagram post. "A dream that has been YEARS in the making, and it wouldn’t have been possible without your unwavering support. THANK YOU."

The recently minted Miss New York USA went on to give her gratitude to her team, including her team of coaches and her friends and family. 

"In a few short weeks this dream is becoming a reality. How is this real life?!" she wrote in a separate post. "I’m so blessed and will not take this honor for granted. Let’s get to work New York!"

Marizza was crowned the top title of the night, followed up by runners-up Judy Lin, Zoe McGrady, Shreya Gundelly, and Jenna-Monét Queeley. The Filipina-American is set to compete at Miss USA 2024, to be held in Los Angeles in August 2024.

Who Is Miss New York USA 2024 Marizza Delgado?

Aside from her new title as Miss New York USA 2024, Marizza has previously made her rounds in the American pageant circle, winning Miss Pacific Coast Teen USA in 2017 and Miss Earth New York 2021.

Marizza’s mother hails from Pampanga, while her father is from Manila. Her parents immigrated to San Jose, California, where Marizza was born and raised. As a model, she has posed for labels including H&M, L’Oreal, Walmart, and Kohls, alongside walking the runway in New York Fashion Week. Apart from her foray into pageantry and modeling, Marizza is also a devout champion of the sciences and STEM education as a data scientist and Girls Who Code mentor, along with her environmental causes as a loud and proud vegan.

In a 2021 interview with Preview, the beauty queen shared her words of wisdom for Filipino models. "My advice for young, aspiring Filipino models is to show up to set with a positive attitude, good work ethic, and don't take rejections personally," she said. "You will be a more independent, confident, and determined person because of it."

Congrats, Marizza!

Philippines Exceeds Gross National Income Per Capita Target In 2023

Philippines Exceeds Gross National Income Per Capita Target In 2023

By PAGEONE Business Today
July 5, 2024

The Philippines exceeded its Gross National Income (GNI) per capita target for 2023 under the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028 and is on track to becoming an upper middle-income country in the next two years, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said on Wednesday.

Data released by the World Bank last July 1 showed that the country’s GNI per capita reached USD4,230 last year, surpassing the USD3,130 to USD4,203 GNI per capita target set under the PDP.

The GNI per capita last year was also higher by 7.1 percent than the previous year.

GNI per capita measures the economic output per citizen, encompassing both domestic and international earnings.

A higher GNI per capita is one indication of greater economic prosperity and a higher standard of living.

“Achieving the GNI per capita target for 2023 solidifies our trajectory toward attaining Upper Middle-Income Country (UMIC) status within the next two years. However, our mission is far from complete,” Balisacan said.

“While we, of course, welcome news of such progress, what matters more to us is that the fruits of economic growth—opportunities, better jobs, and higher incomes—are felt by all Filipinos, especially the poor. The government must persist in its efforts to ensure that our economic gains are shared equitably, with the aim of reducing the poverty rate to a single-digit level by 2028,” he said.

The World Bank defines UMIC economies as those with GNI per capita ranging between USD4,516 and USD14,005 for the fiscal year 2025.

Balisacan earlier said the Philippines is poised to achieve UMIC status by 2025, provided the economy sustains its robust growth rate.

For this year, the economic growth target was set at 6 to 7 percent.

For 2025, economic managers earlier set a 6.5 to 7.5 percent economic growth target.

“The expected transition to Upper Middle-Income Country status is an indication that we are headed in the right direction. More importantly, I should say, our focus now is on sustaining the momentum. We are working double time to further improve the policy and regulatory environment to enable a balanced mix of industries that will sustain the growth of the Philippine economy in the years to come,” Balisacan said.

“With our accelerated infrastructure drive enhancing connectivity across the country, we also want more of our lagging regions contributing to our growth as we also push for inclusivity. More than hitting a number, the ultimate goal is to improve our people’s lives,” he added. (PNA)

Slovenia, Philippines head to Olympic qualifying semis

Slovenia, Philippines head to Olympic qualifying semis

Manila Times

Story by Associated Press

05 July 2024

Luka Doncic and Slovenia still have Olympic hopes. And so does the Philippines, much to its own surprise.

Doncic had 36 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists, and Slovenia beat New Zealand 104-78 on Thursday to clinch a semifinal spot in the Olympic qualifying tournament at Piraeus, Greece. Slovenia needed to win by at least 10 points to make the semifinals.

Slovenia's opponent on Saturday is Greece, meaning it'll be Doncic and fellow NBA All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo leading their squads — with the winner advancing to Sunday's final with a berth in the Paris Olympics at stake, and the loser eliminated.

Josh Nebo had 20 points and 10 rebounds for Slovenia. Shea Ili led New Zealand with 28 points.

Semifinal Matchups

The matchups for Saturday's semifinals are taking shape.

At Valencia, Spain — Finland vs. Spain; Bahamas vs. Lebanon.

At Piraeus, Greece — Slovenia vs. Greece; Croatia vs. Dominican Republic.

At Riga, Latvia — Brazil vs. Philippines; Cameroon vs. Latvia.

At San Juan, Puerto Rico — Lithuania vs. Italy or Puerto Rico; Italy or Puerto Rico vs. Mexico.

The finals at all four sites are Sunday, and those four winners go to the Paris Olympics.

Georgia 96, Philippines 94

The Philippines lost but advanced to Saturday's semifinals of their tournament in Riga, Latvia, anyway. That created a bit of an issue; the team had flights home scheduled for Friday.

Mister Supranational Philippines 2024 made history in Poland

Philippines' Brandon Espiritu is 2024 Mister Supranational 2nd runner-up!

Story by GMA Integrated News 
05 July 2024

Congratulations are in order for Mister Supranational 2024 Philippine bet Brandon Espiritu! 

Not only did he just finish as 2nd runner-up to the pageant — the highest placement the Philippines has achieved in the international tilt — he also won the social media influencer challenge of the pageant. 

On Instagram, the local organization congratulated Brandon. "You’ve made a whole country proud. You have achieved our highest placement in Mister Supranational so far," they said.

In a video posted by the organization, Brandon thanked his supporters "for backing me in this journey."

"We broke history, we broke Top 5. As a Filipino, I'm so proud to be here," he said.

During the finals, Brandon first made an incredible impression with his dance moves, and cemented it with his noteworthy final Q&A performance.

Before answering the question, the model and entrepreneur made sure to thank this parents for "helping raise me to be the man that I am today."

And then he began by demonstrating his sense of inclusivity. "I would tell every single man out there, not just every man but every man and woman, every person with a soul: You have intrinsic value."

"If you wanna be better and if you want to progress in your life, give yourself grace and take small steps. We have to start somewhere and build off that and progress. That's the only way to go about it," Brandon said to much applause.

South Africa was named 2024 Mister Supranational, and Netherlands was first 1st runner-up.

— LA, GMA Integrated News

Philippines team wins big at Math competition in Vietnam

Philippines team aces Math competition in Vietnam

Story by Elizabeth Marcelo
Philstar Global
04 July 2024

MANILA, Philippines — The 20-member Philippine team, composed of grade school and high school students from public and private schools, bagged 22 medals at the recently-concluded Global Mathematics Competition (GMC) in Hanoi, Vietnam. 

The Philippine team placed second overall as the tilt was topped by host-country Vietnam while Thailand and Indonesia were tied at third. 

The Philippine contingent's medal haul included two gold, eight silver, eight bronze and four merit medals. 

This was a significant improvement from the Philippines' finish last year when it bagged one gold, four silver, one bronze and three merit medals. 

Held from June 29 to July 2, this year's GMC drew nearly 200 contestants from eight countries – Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Brazil and Saudi Arabia. 

Copping golds for the Philippines were Hannah Alexis Olaguer of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo National High School for the individual event, and the Philippine delegation's Junior High Squad with members from various schools in the team event. 

Bagging silver medals were Roxy Charlize Quidilla of Zamboanga Chong Hua School, Gabriel Anthony Sapinoso of Malagasang Elem. School, Carlos Balderama of Albay Central School, Lara Jane Natividad of Philippine Cultural College, Alexa Amara Dimapilis of First Asia Institute of Technology & Humanities, Jaycel Altairsipole Juan of Phil. Yu Chiau School, Rianne Pocsidio of Hope Christian High School, and the Lower Primary Squad in the team event.

The bronze medal winners included Vincent Abenoja of Elizabeth Seton School, Hezekiah Lucas Martinez of Philippine Yu Chiau School, Johann Fransz Isleta of San Nicolas Academy, Samantha Grace Gonzales of First Asia Institute of Technology & Humanities, Vivienne Zuri Abenoja of Las Pinas National High School, Arielle Francene dela Cruz of Philippine Science High School-Main, Alix Isabel Ofrin of St. Paul College Pasig, and Lheijin Dacumos of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo High School.

The merit awardees were Nadine Clarisse Martha Castillo of Colegio San Agustin Makati, Khent Lewistan Su of Phil. Institute of Quezon City, Jasmine Rosita Belen of Ateneo de Davao University High School and Jianna Brielle Go of Zamboanga Chong Hua High School. The delegation's trainer, Dr. Simon Chua, head of the non-government organization Mathematics Trainers' Guild Phils. (MTG), commended the students for their "hard work and for continuously thriving on the challenge of coming home undefeated."

MTG officers Dr. Isidro Aguilar and Robert Degolacion also led the delegation.

Gilas Pilipinas stuns world No. 6 Latvia to open Fiba OQT bid

Gilas Pilipinas stuns world No. 6 Latvia to open Fiba OQT bid

Story by Denison Rey A. Dalupang
Inquirer.net
04 July 2024

Gilas Pilipinas pounced on Latvia’s early shooting woes and played with steely nerves down the stretch to topple World No. 6 and host Latvia, 89-80, in the Fiba Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) on Thursday.

The No. 37-ranked Filipinos, overwhelming underdogs in the short meet at Arena Riga that will send a winner to the Paris Olympics, raced to an 8-0 start and built a sizable cushion that they never yielded until the final horn.

“I’m totally shocked to be sitting in front of you guys after winning this basketball game. This is not something we thought we were gonna do, I’ll be honest with you,” said Gilas coach Tim Cone after the Philippines beat a European team for the first time in 64 years.

“We wanted to come in and compete and really put on a good show. We got started early. We hit shots early. And thankfully Latvia missed shots.”

Naturalized ace Justin Brownlee delivered a near triple-double of 26 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists, while young cornerstones Kai Sotto and Dwight Ramos tossed in 18 and 11 points, respectively, for a triumph that got Gilas’ campaign off to a rousing start.

Barring a massive blowout at the hands of World No. 23 Georgia, the Philippines is on track to advance to the crossover knockout phase which could pit the Filipinos against Cameroon, Brazil or Montenegro.

Chris Newsome scored 10 points, including a couple of late baskets in the final period that kept the Latvians at bay with the results significantly shaking up the Group A race.

The Latvians, having won 24 of their last 27 Fiba games, were projected to sweep the preliminaries, but struggled against a determined Gilas side and dropped to 1-1 in the OQT.

It also didn’t help the hosts that their outside shooting abandoned them just as the Filipinos hit theirs. Latvia was 10-for-42 while Gilas wound up 9-of-20 from deep.

“There were a couple of stretches, like Kai said, that we kind of lost our way a little bit but it seems like when Latvia was just about ready to make huge run at us, they would miss an open three-point shot,” Cone said.

“And that’s just one of those night for Latvia—they just won’t hit shots tonight.”

Rodions Kurucs and Rolands Smits joined hands for a last-ditch effort for the Latvians, but the Gilas cushion—which swelled to as big as 26 points—proved too big to overhaul.

Kurucs had 18 points, Davis Bertans, Kristers Zoriks and Janis Strelnieks 10 each while Smits had 9 in the Latvian effort that left many in the home crowd in disbelief.

Gilas and Georgia tangle in 18 hours (8:30 p.m. Manila time) at the same venue.

UN Tourism exec: ‘Love the Philippines’ powerful slogan

UN Tourism exec: ‘Love the Philippines’ powerful slogan

Story by Ghio Ong 
Philstar Global
04 July 2024

LAPU-LAPU CITY, Philippines —An official of UN Tourism praised the “Love the Philippines” slogan of the Department of Tourism (DOT), which he described as a “very powerful tourism tagline.”

“I think it is something that I am very much impressed. ‘Love the Philippines’ is the very right slogan. Only the Philippines can do that,” said Harry Hwang, UN Tourism’s regional director for Asia and the Pacific.

While he noted that he loved the previous DOT catchphrase “It’s more fun in the Philippines,” the slogan that replaced it was “very significant.”

“It has to be more like something cultural, historical, natural attractions. Most important is your people; Filipinos know how to welcome people. Your people make us beautiful,” Hwang told reporters.

He also commended the Philippines’ hosting of UN Tourism’s Joint Meetings of the Commission for East Asia and Pacific and the Commission for South Asia, as well as the first UN Tourism Gastronomy Forum for Asia-Pacific.

He vowed UN Tourism would continue supporting the Philippines in its tourism programs and projects “in terms of research work and organizing technical events.”

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco thanked UN Tourism for giving the Philippines the duty of hosting the international meetings, which exhibited the country’s ability to give foreign visitors reasons to “Love the Philippines.”

“You have been immersed with the warmth and the love of the Filipino people that will make you come back again and again,” she said.

During the UN Tourism stint in Cebu province, the Philippines showed “eco-tourism marvels and sustainable tourism practices,” as well as the “strength of the culture and heritage of Cebu” through exhibits and technical tours last week.

The DOT launched the “Love the Philippines” tourism campaign in mid-2023.

RP Blu Boys, Girls bring glory as highest ranked Filipino team sport in the world

RP Blu Boys, Girls bring glory as highest ranked Filipino team sport in the world

Sun Star Davao Digital
03 July 2024

All eyes are on the Philippines once more after proving it has what it takes to compete head to head against world-class athletes in team sports, not in basketball or football, but because of softball.

The RP Blu Boys and RP Blu Girls are swiftly climbing the ranks of the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), capturing the attention and the hearts of both local Filipinos and softball enthusiasts worldwide. Both teams are currently ranked 15th in the WBSC world rankings, reflecting their hard-earned success and growing dominance in the sport. With their impressive performances and steadfast determination, these teams are destined to become household names in the softball community and retain, if not improve, their respective ranks.

Presently, the RP Blu Girls is seeing action at the Canada Cup International Softball Championship in Surrey, British Columbia where they face teams from Hong Kong, Canada, Israel and Mexico, among others. A few weeks ago, the RP Blu Boys showed their grit at the 18th WBSC Men’s Softball WorldCup in Hermosillo, Mexico where they stepped to the plate against Australia, Czechia, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Venezuela.

Prior to these remarkable runs, the year 2023 was hailed as a landmark year for Philippine softball, with four Cebuana Lhuillier-backed national teams qualifying for the World Cup: the RP Blu Girls, RP Blu Boys, the U15 Women’s Team, and the Philippine Co-Ed Slow Pitch Team. The RP Blu Boys and RP Blu Girls' exceptional performances in international competitions propelled the Philippines to the 14th spot in the WBSC rankings. Overall, the WBSC recognized the Philippines as the most improved nation, climbing 17 positions from No. 31 at the beginning of the year. This meteoric rise highlights the team's relentless drive and exceptional skill, setting the stage for an exciting future in international softball.

The dedication and passion of ASAPHIL President and Cebuana Lhuillier CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier have been instrumental in this remarkable journey of the RP Blu Boys and RP Blu Girls. His unwavering commitment to making softball a prominent and respected sport in the Philippines has driven countless initiatives and programs designed to elevate the sport to new heights. Lhuillier's leadership has not only provided the necessary financial support and resources but he has also created a culture of excellence and determination among the young athletes.

"I have high hopes for softball as it is a sport where I firmly believe that Filipinos have what it takes to be the world’s best," Lhuillier stated with conviction.

As the RP Blu Boys and RP Blu Girls continue their ascent on the global softball stage, their journey promises to be nothing short of exhilarating. Their relentless drive and exceptional talent are setting new benchmarks, making every game not just a must-watch event but an embodiment of the Filipino people’s potential and passion for the game. PR

Philippines tops global rankings in investor relations, debt transparency

Philippines tops global rankings in investor relations, debt transparency

Ian Laqui 
Philstar.com
July 3, 2024 

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines ranked first in investor relations country scores coming from third place in 2023 based on an assessment from Washington-based think tank Institute of International Finance (IIF).

In the IIF Investor Relations and Debt Transparency Report released July 4, the Philippines garnered a score of 48.8 of 50, an improvement from last year’s score of 47.8 and the highest among the 50 countries sampled.

Following the Philippines, countries receiving the highest scores were Indonesia with 48.7; Türkiye with 48.3; Brazil with 47.5 and Hungary with 47.2.

The Philippines jumped from 12th place in 2022 to 3rd place in 2023 out of 41 emerging markets and developing countries assessed.

The scores were weighted based on 23 criteria that investors value as important, such as practices of regular self-assessment, dissemination of macroeconomic data and policy information, the quality of investor relations website and the availability of feedback and communication channels.

According to the think tank, the countries that achieved the high IR scores showcase "robust practice and effective engagement with international creditors."

Debt transparency score

Subsets of the Investor Relations score are on debt transparency and on environmental, social and governance data and policy dissemination.

The Philippines also achieved the highest score in debt transparency posting a 12.5 score tying with Indonesia. It is followed by Türkiye with 12.3, Uruguay with 12.0 and Brazil with 11.8.

This is based on evaluation of how well a country or organization discloses and manages debt-relation information, with a maximum score of 13.

It also measures countries' adherence to the International Monetary Fund's standards on how data is disclosed and distributed as well as the accessibility of macroeconomic and ESG data.

"Countries with strong investor relations and debt transparency practices are realizing the benefits, seeing higher sovereign credit ratings and improved capital flows," the IIF authors said.

Fil-Am actress Julia Rehwald, others join ‘One Piece’ season 2 cast

Fil-Am actress Julia Rehwald, others join ‘One Piece’ season 2 cast

Story by Hannah Mallorca

Inquirer.net

03 July 2024

Filipino-American actress Julia Rehwald, best known for her work in the film series “Fear Street,” is one of the new cast members to look out for in the live-action adaptation of “One Piece” season two.

Rehwald will take on the role of Tashigi, who serves as a Naval officer under Commodore Smoker in the original Manga series. An antagonist turned good girl, she is noted for her lightning-fast sword-fighting abilities in the storyline.

The actress also took to her Instagram page on Saturday, July 29, to announce her casting, which she said is a “huge dream come true.”

Aside from Rehwald, also cast in season two are Daniel Lasker (Mr. 9), Camrus Johnson (Mr. 5), Jazzara Jaslyn (Miss Valentine), David Dastmalchian (Mr. 3), Werner Coetser (Dorry), and Brendan Murray (Brogy).

Other new cast members include Clive Russell (Crocus), Callum Kerr (Smoker) Rob Colletti (Wapol), and Ty Keogh (Dalton).

More actors will be announced at a later date, a streaming platform said in a press statement.

“One Piece” is a live-action adaptation of the beloved Manga, which tells the story of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew on a quest for the world’s ultimate treasure. Luffy hopes to be the King of the Pirates.

The series stars Iñaki Godoy as the titular Monkey D. Luffy, Mackenyu (Roronoa Zoro), Emily Rudd (Nami), Jacob Romero (Usopp), and Taz Skylar (Sanji). Its first season premiered in August 2023.

Details on the premiere date are yet to be revealed, but reports said it will premiere sometime in 2025.

EJ Obiena Is Ushering In A Golden Age of Filipino Sport

 EJ Obiena Is Ushering In A Golden Age of Filipino Sport

BY JASON INOCENCIO
PHOTOGRAPHS BY MODESTO III BANZO

Vogue Philippines
01 July 2024

Despite facing stiff competition, EJ Obiena is steadfast on his track to the Paris summer games. “Being in a constant grind is immeasurable,” he says. “And I hope by Paris I should be able to put them into fruition and use all the knowledge that I have, and hopefully bring back a medal.”

This 2024 marks a century of Philippine participation in the Olympic Games. Ironically, the first time the country sent athletes to the Olympiad in 1924, Paris, France was also the host city. It took almost a month for that first contingent of Filipino athletes to travel from Manila to Paris a century ago. It would take 97 years before a Filipino would finally win Olympic gold.

In the century since that first Paris Olympiad, a new generation of Filipinos has been training and preparing their minds and bodies in the hopes of repeating what weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz accomplished at the Tokyo Olympics. One of them is Ernest John (“EJ”) Obiena, the Tondo-born pole vaulter who has dominated the sport in recent seasons.

The biggest obstacle

What has not been said already about Obiena? He has dominated Asian competition in recent years and has consistently been ranked #2 globally, as per the World Athletics Organization. Since his participation in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he’s seen a flurry of gold medals, including setting the new Asian record of six meters. Marking a golden age for his chosen discipline of pole vaulting, his achievements position him as a formidable contender in global athletics, making his pursuit of gold at the Paris Olympics.

His main competition also happens to be a friend in Sweden’s Armand Duplantis, whose performance has pushed the bar higher than anyone else in history. He’s broken the men’s pole vault record on eight separate occasions, clearing 6.24 meters at an opening Diamond League meet in China last April. 

“He [Duplantis] has lifted the sport to a level it’s never been,” Obiena says of his rival. “And he’s pulling everyone with him. That’s the good side of it. The bad side of it is that jumping as high as six meters now would not mean a win.” 

Despite facing fierce competition from Duplantis, Obiena remains steadfast and resolute in his pursuits. His unwavering determination drives him to challenge the heights set, proving his dedication to excelling even more. “I’m a competitor, I want to win,” Obiena quickly replies. “Every time I step on the track, I want to win. Having [Duplantis] in the picture makes things more difficult, but at the same time, sweeter as well.”

The Olympic dream

After a run at this year’s fast-approaching Summer Games, what he’ll undoubtedly take home with him will be more than medals, but an ushering of a new era of Filipino sporting, inspired by his resilience in the face of his sole hurdle in Duplantis. 

And there is hope yet. Diaz changed the entire field of Philippine sports when she brought home silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics and went even further with her Tokyo Games gold. Her win has sparked something in the athlete: the idea that Olympic gold isn’t only a faraway dream, but a very possible outcome in his endeavors. 

He bares that the experience he has gained from the Tokyo Olympics, as well as other pole vault competitions, have allowed him to be calmer heading to Paris. “Hopefully being in a constant grind with these world-class pole vaulters is immeasurable, and I hope by Paris I should be able to put them into fruition and use all the knowledge that I have and hopefully bring back a medal.”

SB19 Is First Filipino Act to Perform on The First Take

SB19 Is First Filipino Act to Perform on The First Take

The P-pop sensation delivered an outstanding performance of their hit song 'Gento'.

by Andrei Santos
Lofficielph.com
01 July 2024

Known for their musical prowess and undeniably catchy songs, Filipino boy band SB19 makes their debut on the Japanese YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE. The channel invites singers and artists for a one-take-only performance with notable appearances by Harry Styles, BTS’ V, and Avril Lavigne.

SB19 makes an incredible feat as the first Southeast Asian group and the first Filipino to appear on the channel, delivering an exclusive special performance of the group’s song Gento, which has grown in popularity due to its addictive chorus and hypnotic dance moves, even debuting at #8 on the Billboard World Digital Sales Charts.

SB19 makes an incredible feat as the first Southeast Asian group and the first Filipino to appear on the channel, delivering an exclusive special performance of the group’s hit Gento.

Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin looked vibrant and confident during their performance, dressed in shades of green and blue. “It was a true first take, so we were very nervous and overwhelmed, but it was fun and an amazing experience,” the group shares. 

The group made history as the first Southeast Asian and Filipino act to be nominated for the Billboard Music Awards and to make an entry into the international Billboard Social 50 and Next Big Sound Charts. They were also recognized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as the Philippines' Youth Ambassadors.

Spanish energy firm invests in PH offshore wind

BlueFloat Energy invests in offshore wind expansion in PH

POWER PHILIPPINES NEWS
July 1, 2024

BlueFloat Energy, based in Madrid, is making a considerable investment in the Philippine offshore wind sector to enhance the country’s energy infrastructure.

In a report by the Philippine Star, the company entered the Philippine market last year, acquiring wind energy service contracts in four regions: Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, Northern Luzon, and Southern Mindoro.

BlueFloat Energy’s Asia Pacific senior development advisor Jarek Pole said the country has conditions fitting for offshore wind technology, paralleling the country’s renewable energy goals to decarbonize the economy.

Pole also said there is an urgent need for large-scale renewable energy generation to meet the increasing electricity demand, as the current capacities are insufficient.

To aid in the growing demand, the firm aims to develop 7.6 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity in the Philippines, making it its largest market.

The investment would range from USD 2.5 million to USD 4 million per megawatt (MW) for bottom-fixed wind farms, while for floating wind projects, it would reach up to USD 6 million per MW.

Additionally, the company recently completed a systems impact study with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines and is conducting a bathymetry survey to assess water depth at the sites.

The construction of the project is anticipated to begin by 2028, with the first phase of projects expected to be operational by 2031 or 2032.

Permits and regulatory frameworks are being refined in collaboration with government agencies like the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

The DOE has identified 10 ports for pre-feasibility studies, but port developers need assurance of their economic viability.

The Philippines Data Center Industry’s Meteoric Rise

From Paradise to Powerhouse: The Philippines Data Center Industry’s Meteoric Rise

Hazel Moises
W.Media
01 July 2024

The Philippine archipelago, once synonymous with idyllic beaches and coral reefs, is carving a new identity in the digital age. The country’s strategic location in Southeast Asia also makes it an ideal hub for regional data centers. With robust fiber optic connectivity and a network of submarine cables, the country is well-equipped to serve the data demands of the entire region.

The nation’s data center industry is experiencing an unprecedented boom, transforming it into a potential powerhouse for Southeast Asia’s digital infrastructure. This rapid ascent is fueled by a confluence of factors, a testament to the Philippines’ strategic positioning and its commitment to digital advancement.

The Philippines data center market is on a trajectory for explosive growth. Industry analysts at Mordor Intelligence predict a staggering market size of 954.22 MW by 2029, reflecting a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.93%. This surge is fueled by several key factors.

Firstly, the cloud revolution is seeing businesses migrate towards cloud-based solutions, demanding secure and reliable data storage facilities. This shift towards cloud computing necessitates a robust data center infrastructure to handle the growing need for data storage and processing. Secondly, the Philippine government actively fosters a favorable business environment for IT infrastructure development. Competitive business conditions with tax incentives and streamlined regulations create an attractive space for data center operators to invest and establish a presence.

In addition, the Philippines boasts a young and tech-savvy population driving a surge in digital adoption across various sectors. This creates a strong domestic market for data center services, further propelling the industry’s growth.

With this growing demand, the Philippines’ Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is looking forward to a substantial increase in data center capacity in the country. DICT is anticipating a significant fivefold surge in data center capacity within the country, projecting it to reach around 300 megawatts (MW) by the year 2025.

Building on a Strong Foundation: Government Initiatives

The Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. supports the development of data center in the country. He noted that the projects would enable the Philippines to catch up with other countries in terms of digitalization. “This is important for us. We’re left behind when it comes to digitalization. That’s why the push for data centers, fiber optics and satellite is one of our priorities,” he said.

The Philippine government is also actively fostering a data center boom through a supportive regulatory environment. This drive is fueled by a desire to propel economic growth through several avenues: job creation, increased investment flows, and a robust digital transformation agenda. Initiatives like the National Broadband Program and the Digital Philippines campaign are directly aimed at improving the country’s digital infrastructure and nurturing the IT industry, including the data center market.

In 2022, the amendments to the Foreign Investments Act played a pivotal role in making the Philippines a more welcoming environment for both individuals and businesses in the digital sphere. These amendments, coupled with streamlined bureaucratic processes, significantly enhance the Philippines’ attractiveness to foreign investors, positioning it to capture a greater share of foreign direct investments. With this influx of resources and capital, businesses will have a greater capacity to implement advanced cloud technologies into their operations and services.

Data centers are a critical pillar supporting the government’s vision of a thriving digital economy, and various initiatives are actively propelling their growth. These policies are strategically designed to drive stronger economic expansion in the Philippines.

Local Titans and Global Players

The data center landscape in the Philippines is a thriving ecosystem brimming with established local players and international giants working in tandem. Leading the way are domestic companies like ePLDT, DITO Telecommunity, and Converge ICT Solutions. These homegrown providers possess a deep understanding of the Philippine market’s nuances. This local knowledge allows them to tailor data center solutions that perfectly cater to the specific needs of Filipino businesses, from expansive data storage requirements to ensuring robust cybersecurity measures.

International giants like ST Telemedia Global Data Centres are also recognizing the vast potential of the Philippines market. They are actively investing in building state-of-the-art data centers, bringing with them cutting-edge technologies and global best practices. This influx of international expertise creates a dynamic environment where local players can learn and adapt, fostering a spirit of innovation. The blend of local know-how and global experience fuels a competitive environment that benefits everyone.

Looking ahead, these companies are poised for further expansion. ePLDT, DITO Telecommunity, and Converge ICT Solutions are continuously investing in infrastructure development to extend their reach and cater to the growing demand for data center services across the archipelago. Meanwhile, international players are expected to establish more facilities, capitalizing on the Philippines’ strategic location and business-friendly environment.

Powering the Digital Archipelago: Sustainability at the Core

The Philippines data center industry isn’t just focused on rapid expansion, it’s prioritizing sustainability. Blessed with abundant renewable energy resources like geothermal and solar power, data center operators are increasingly incorporating these clean energy sources into their operations. This not only reduces the industry’s carbon footprint but also aligns with global sustainability goals and positions the Philippines as an environmentally conscious data center hub.

One recent example of that is the construction of the country’s first and largest hyperscale data center at the Narra Technology Park. This $2.7-billion investment will see a 300-megawatt (MW) data center built on a 47-hectare site in New Clark City (NCC), Tarlac. Notably, the data center will be powered by 100% clean renewable energy within the first five years of operation.

The Philippines data center industry is poised for a bright future. With the government’s unwavering support and industry commitment to innovation and sustainability, the Philippines is well on its way to becoming a cornerstone of the region’s digital infrastructure. This industry boom will not only power the archipelago’s digital transformation but also create significant economic opportunities and attracting investments. The Philippines is emerging as a major player in the global data center market. This rapid growth in the data center sector positions the Philippines as a key driver of digital transformation in Southeast Asia, fostering a more connected and technologically advanced region.

Israeli companies see PHL as attractive destination

Israeli companies see PHL as attractive destination — envoy

BusinessWorld
By John Victor D. Ordoñez, Reporter
30 June 2024

ISRAEL companies, particularly startups, view the Philippines as a viable gateway to Southeast Asian markets, according to the Israeli Ambassador and the head of Israel’s economic mission in Manila.

“Asia is a growing market, and Israeli companies are becoming more and more interested in the markets here,” Ambassador Ilan Fluss told BusinessWorld on the sidelines of an Israeli tech startup pitch event at his residence in Makati City.

“The Philippines is also an entry point to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations,” he added.

He said the embassy is working closely with the Anti-Red Tape Authority to find ways to make it easier to do business in the Philippines.

“I think the important thing for an Israeli company is to have a good Filipino partner that will be able to guide them (in navigating) the economy,” Mr. Fluss said, noting the difficulties posed by bureaucracy.

Tomer Heyvi, head of the Israel Economic Mission to the Philippines, said more Israeli startups are showing interest in seeking investors from the Philippines.

“The Philippines is a rising star and there is a lot of interest from the Israeli companies in trade, commerce, but also, of course, in investment,” he told BusinessWorld.

Mr. Heyvi said there are more than 9,000 startups in Israel that are seeking partnerships to help them break through in various global markets, including the Philippines.

“Every year, we see an increase in the interest of Israeli companies. So, for me, it’s already an indication that they find this market interesting.”

According to the Central Bureau of Statistics of Israel, trade between the Philippines and Israel amounted to $532 million last year.

Israel’s Ministry of Economy and Industry said on its website that business services between both countries last year were mostly provided by Israeli startups and tech companies engaged in artificial intelligence-based platforms, cybersecurity, and financial technology solutions.

Dotan Sagi, chief executive officer of Israeli software development company Cinten, called for more support for tech accelerators.

“If the government invests in accelerators, hubs for young people that can work and understand the tech way of thinking and how to build a startup, it will be easier to work here,” he told BusinessWorld.