Philippines is Miss Aura International 2024 1st runner-up

Philippines' Isabelle De Los Santos is Miss Aura International 2024 1st runner-up

By GMA INTEGRATED NEWS
October 19, 2024 

Philippine bet Isabelle De Los Santos has been named Miss Aura International 2024 1st runner-up!

Colombia's Yuri Rei won the title in the coronation night held in Antalya, Turkey.

After making it to the Top 5, the Filipina beauty queen was asked the question: Would you prefer to be, rich or famous?

Isabelle answered, “I would rather be rich because I can use my money to create opportunities to uplift people. When we use our money well, we can allow people to prosper and eventually create a world that cultivates an aura of generosity and prosperity.”

During the pageant, Isabelle wore a shimmering evening gown by Daniel Manila with “Aura” designed on its back, which, according to The Miss Philippines, is a “symbolism that aura is not just a word, but a light that shines from within.”

“The crystals evoke the shimmering Philippine islands, reflecting the country’s natural beauty and the sparkle of its people.”

Isabelle was also the winner of the Miss Aura International fan vote.

—Carby Basina/JCB, GMA Integrated News

Cordillerans shine in Asian kickboxing

Cordillerans shine in Asian kickboxing

Harley Palangchao
The Manila Times
18 October 2024

BAGUIO CITY — Combat sports athletes from the Cordillera region have carried the national team in securing five golds, one silver and 10 bronze medals in the Asian Kickboxing Championship 2024 held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Oct. 6 to 13, 2024.

SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN Officials and members of the Samahang Kickboxing ng Pilipinas pose after winning five golds, one silver and 10 bronze medals in the 2004 Asian Kickboxing Championship 2024 held at the Olympic Stadium, Phnom Penh, Cambodia from Oct. 6 to 13, 2024. SKP PHOTO

Leading the pack of athletes from the Samahang Kickboxing ng Pilipinas from this highland region were Paris Olympian Hergie Bacyadan, Gina Araos and Carlo Von Bumina-ang.

Bacyadan topped in the under-70 kilograms K1 female division while seasoned national campaigner Araos dominated the under-56 kg low kick event.

Bumina-ang, who is making his presence felt in Asian-based mixed martial arts promotion, won the gold in the under-67 kg low kick.

Fellow Cordilleran athletes Honorio Banario won the silver in the under-75 kg K1 male and Renalyn Dacquel bagged the bronze in the under-48 kg low kick female.

Three more Cordilleran warriors, Whinny Bayawon, Daryl Chulipas and Felex Dave Cantores snared the bronze in the under-57 kg kick light, under-51 kg full contact, and under-63 kg full contact, respectively.

Claudine Veloso, who made Baguio City her second home, won a bronze in the under-52 kg. K1 while Lance Airon Villamer brought home the bronze in the under-63 kg point fighting event.

Jovan Medallo became the team's most outstanding athlete after clinching two gold medals in the musical with weapon and musical form with open hand. He also won a bronze medal in the creative form with weapon.

Janah Jade Lavador, on the other hand, won three bronze medals in musical and creative forms.

S&P: Philippines among global growth drivers by 2035

S&P: Philippines among global growth drivers by 2035

Story by Louella Desiderio

Philstar Global

18 October 2024

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is among the emerging economies that will be driving global growth over the next decade, according to S&P Global.

In its report titled “Look Forward Emerging Markets: A Decisive Decade,” S&P Global said emerging markets would play a crucial role in shaping the global economy over the next decade, averaging 4.06 percent gross domestic product (GDP) growth through 2035 and contributing about 65 percent of global economic growth.

“This growth will be driven mainly by emerging economies in Asia-Pacific, including China, India, Vietnam and the Philippines,” S&P Global said.

The Philippines is expected to post the third highest average annual GDP growth of 4.8 percent from 2024 to 2035, it also said.

Vietnam is expected to see annual GDP growth over the next decade at 6.2 percent, followed by India, which is projected to post annual GDP growth of 5.9 percent in the same period.

S&P Global said supportive demographics, abundant natural resources, evolving trade dynamics and technological innovations in energy and manufacturing could propel the emerging markets to higher development stages.

Emerging markets, however, also face geopolitical disruptions, climate change risks and the resurgence of industrial policies and protectionism in advanced economies.

“This intricate environment will present both emergent opportunities and multifaceted challenges for emerging markets as they strive to accelerate their advancement,” S&P Global said.

The Philippine government is aiming for a six to seven percent economic growth for this year.

As of the first semester, the Philippine economy posted an average growth of six percent.

For next year, the Philippine government has set a 6.5 to 7.5 percent economic growth target.

For 2026 to 2028, the Philippine government’s annual economic growth goal is at 6.5 to eight percent.

New species of King Cobra endemic in Philippines

Luzon King Cobra: New species endemic in Philippines – study

Morexette Marie B. Erram - Senior Multimedia Reporter 
CDN Digital 
October 17,2024

CEBU CITY, Philippines — A study identified a new species of king cobra that’s endemic only in the Philippines.

Researchers identified a new king cobra species that’s endemic only in the Philippines. It’s called the Luzon king cobra (Ophiophagus salvatana). | Photo from European Journal of Taxonomy

The European Journal of Taxonomy on Wednesday, October 16, published the latest research on the taxonomy of king cobra, considered the world’s longest venomous snake.

It presented a taxonomic revision of the king cobra species, with scientific name Ophiophagus hannah (O. hannah), as well as the discovery of two new species.

Philippines ranks third-best destination for longer vacations

The Philippines Ranks Third Best for Extended Travels

Esquire Philippines
17 October 2024

The Philippines ranks as the third-best destination for longer vacations among 100 countries analyzed by the global e-commerce platform Ubuy. The countries were evaluated based on their affordability, cultural richness, safety, and travel convenience.

The research focused on countries with a search volume greater than 1,000,000 and incorporated additional data on geographic size, the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and popular attractions.

To assess financial feasibility, the costs for a 20-day hotel stay and dining were considered, while crime index data and the quality of domestic transportation were examined to ensure security and convenience. The study utilized data from the latest reports (2023-2024), with pricing and safety information updated through August 2024. Countries were ranked based on a combined score of different factors, highlighting the best destinations for extended vacations.

The Philippines garnered an overall score of 55.74. With a 20-day stay priced at $943, it is the second-cheapest option after Vietnam. The Philippines also boasts a five-month tourist season and a moderate crime index of 42.8, making it a safe and appealing destination for long vacations, according to Ubuy.

Vietnam tops the list with a score of 64.31, making it the best destination for longer vacations. The country offers the lowest hotel prices for a 20-day stay at just $827, making it especially attractive to budget-conscious travelers. Vietnam also has an extensive tourist season lasting 12 months, allowing visitors to explore the country year-round with 250 popular attractions.

India takes the second spot with a score of 61.17. The country stands out for its cultural richness, boasting 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the highest of any country in the study. India also has the greatest number of popular attractions, totaling around 700. Despite higher hotel costs than Vietnam, India offers the cheapest dining, with a three-course meal for two priced at just $14.29.

Sri Lanka ranks fourth with a score of 42.28. The country is notable for its high density of UNESCO sites, featuring eight sites within a compact area of 65,610 square kilometers—the smallest on the list. Although hotel prices are higher at $1,630, Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and unique experiences make it a standout choice for history enthusiasts.

Thailand scores 42.13, securing fifth place. It offers a diverse array of attractions with 300 popular sites and a year-round tourist season. The cost of a 20-day stay is $1,619, which is slightly higher than in the Philippines but more affordable than in Sri Lanka.

South Korea claims the sixth spot on the list with a score of 38.28. The country is notable for its dense concentration of cultural sites, boasting the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and popular attractions per 1,000 square kilometer. South Korea excels in transportation, with the second-highest score for domestic travel quality at 5.7. With the second-lowest crime rate at 24.9, South Korea offers both safety and convenience for travelers.

Japan follows in seventh place with a score of 34.85. The country has 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 500 popular attractions, ranking it as the second-largest on the list. Although Japan is one of the most expensive destinations, with a 20-day stay costing $2,308 and dining priced at $40.31, it boasts an exceptional domestic transportation system, scoring a perfect 6, and the lowest crime index at 22.6.

Saudi Arabia ranks eighth with a score of 34.24. The country offers a 12-month tourist season and a strong domestic transportation score of 5.4, the third-highest on the list. Although it has fewer cultural sites, with only six UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 70 popular attractions, Saudi Arabia provides an affordable 20-day stay at $2,075 and boasts the third-lowest crime index at 26.9.

Mexico takes the ninth spot with a score of 28.20. The country is rich in cultural heritage, featuring 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 300 popular attractions. With a 12-month tourist season, Mexico is an appealing year-round option, though travelers may need to consider its higher crime index of 53.8 when planning their visit.

Turkey rounds out the top ten with a score of 27.11. While the country has relatively higher hotel costs at $2,570 for a 20-day stay, its 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 350 popular attractions make it a compelling destination for those interested in a longer vacation. Turkey also distinguishes itself with a well-developed transportation system, scoring 5.2, and a moderate crime index of 40.9.

A spokesperson from Ubuy commented on the study: "Opting for longer vacations allows travelers to fully immerse themselves in a destination, experiencing its culture, history, and local life beyond the surface. Locations offering low accommodation costs and various year-round attractions provide great value for travelers. Cultural heritage, especially in areas with a high concentration of UNESCO sites, adds significant appeal, particularly when paired with budget-friendly dining options. Advanced transportation systems and low crime rates further enhance the experience, ensuring convenience and security. The balance of these factors across different destinations allows for a diverse range of options that cater to various traveler preferences, making each destination uniquely attractive for longer stays."

Pinoy scientists creates fire exterminator

Filipino researchers use sound waves to extinguish fire

Bryan Ke
Netshark (United Kingdom)
16 October 2024

A group of researchers from the Philippines is making headlines for creating a “fire exterminator” device that uses sound waves.

The device was created by University of Mindanao engineering graduates Francis Bagol, Franco Bellera and Chris John Pogoy, along with their adviser Stephen Paul Alagao. 

The project was designed to extinguish fires on electrical wiring or gadgets that would otherwise be dangerous to put out with water. 

It incorporates a sensor that automatically detects and stops fire from a maximum range of two meters, making it an ideal home safety device. 

Not only is the device chemical-free; it is also safe for the human ears as it produces only around 80 decibels, the approximate equivalent of the sound produced by a vacuum cleaner.

Winning second place at the 2022 National Invention Contest and Exhibit of the Department of Science and Technology, the group has patented the project, which was registered on March 13, 2023.

Miss PH is Miss Globe 2nd runner-up

Philippines' Jasmin Bungay clinches Miss Globe 2024 Top 3, Colombia wins

Earl D.C. Bracamonte 
Philstar.com
October 16, 2024 

MANILA, Philippines — Diana Moreno of Colombia was crowned as Miss Globe 2024 at the culmination of glitzy rites in Albania.

She was crowned by outgoing queen Manvin Khera of Malaysia.

Miss Thailand Prada Dilhokanansakul, who also won as Miss Talent, was declared 1st runner-up, while Binibining Pilipinas Globe Jasmin Bungay was proclaimed 2nd runner-up. She won the same placement as last year's representative Anna Lakrini.

Miss Germany and Miss Vietnam, who was voted as People's Choice award recipient and automatically earned a spot in the semifinal round, were named 3rd and 4th runners-up, respectively.

The other delegates who placed in the Top 15/16 were:

Italy,
Cameroon,
Malaysia,
Nepal,
Netherlands,
Czech Republic,
Albania (Miss Tourism),
Montenegro (Miss Bikini),
USA (Miss Runway),
and Belgium.

Other candidates who won special awards were:

South Korea (Miss Social Media),

Moldova (Miss Elegance),
Poland (Miss Photogenic),
Portugal (Miss Golden Girl),
China (Miss Friendship),
New Zealand (Head-to-Head Challenge winner),
and Sri Lanka (Best in National Costume).

This year's selection committee was composed of Cory Tran, Olivia Gega, Armand Peza, Elton Hirjani, Aanvi Khera, Luis Portelles, Malan Breton, and Antonis Theocharis Kioukas. 

DTI: Philippines to attract more investments with ASEAN deal

Philippines to attract more investments with ASEAN deal – DTI

Story by Louella Desiderio
Philstar Global
16 October 2024

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has signed the protocol to amend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Comprehensive Investment Agreement (ACIA), which is expected to enable the country to attract more investments, particularly in manufacturing.

In an online briefing yesterday, acting Trade Secretary Cristina Roque who was in Laos for the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits last week, said the Philippines has just signed the fifth protocol to amend the ACIA.

“This agreement makes it easier for investors to identify sectors open for investments in the Philippines, signaling a readiness to be a leader in the global economic and strategic manufacturing,” she said.

Trade Undersecretary Allan Gepty said the protocol presents a more stable and predictable business environment necessary to attract more investments in the Philippines.

He said the submission of the Schedule of Reservations pursuant to the fifth protocol would provide greater certainty and transparency in determining which sectors are open for investments as sectors with market access restrictions or limitations will be listed.

Gepty also said the protocol is in line with the country’s policy to pursue an advanced, purposive and forward-looking agreement.

“The ACIA also sends a strong signal to the investment community of the country’s readiness to serve as an investment hub in the region especially for smart and sustainable manufacturing,” said.

According to the ASEAN Investment Report 2024, foreign direct investments (FDI) in the Philippines declined by seven percent to $8.9 billion last year from $9.5 billion in 2022.

“Investment fell in most industries, with the exceptions of manufacturing and renewable energy,” the ASEAN said.

It said that European companies’ large wind power projects sustained investments in renewable energy in the country.

In terms of FDI source, it said companies based in Singapore invested significantly less in the Philippines, posting a drop to $183 million last year from $539 million in 2022.

On the other hand, FDI from Japanese firms rose by eight percent to $849 million.

“Divestment or scaling down of operations by some MNEs (multinational enterprises) in the face of challenges related to a value added tax rebate also contributed to the declining situation,” the ASEAN said.

As for ASEAN, FDI rose by less than one percent to $230 billion last year, against the backdrop of the global FDI slowdown.

“The region remained the largest recipient of FDI among developing-economy regions, underlining its resilience and rising investment attractiveness,” the ASEAN said.

To maintain the region’s FDI performance and to effectively navigate the post-2025 road ahead, the report emphasized the need for ASEAN to continue removing barriers to investment, as well as strengthening intra-regional investment.

It also highlighted the importance of enhancing regional production networks or supply chain development by promoting closer cooperation between special economic zones and supporting the expansion of micro, small and medium enterprises across the region.

Pinoy math wizards win 19 medals in international contest

Pinoy math wizards win 19 medals in international contest

Neil Jayson Servallos 
Philstar Global
15 October 2024

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino students from public and private schools across the country brought home 19 medals during the 21st International Mathematics and Science Olympiad in China from Oct. 1 to 6.

The Mathematics Trainers’ Guild Philippines (MTG), the organization that trained the students, said the students won a gold, 10 silver and eight bronze medals in the competition.

The Filipino students competed at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences against over 300 students from Botswana, Bulgaria, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong and China.

MTG head Simon Chua commended the Philippine contingent’s gold medalist, Heal Job Esio, a Grade 6 student of Pangasinan Universal Institute in Dagupan City.

The silver medalists are Elizur Daniel Anabieza of Divine Light Academy; Bianca Jayne Ong and Annette Tiffany Yu of St. John’s Institute Bacolod; Ezekiel Anton Tan, Mishael Oikos Chan and Yingqi Lu of St. Jude Catholic School; Steve Jacob Yu of Xavier School; Leonard Vash Cay of Xavier School Nuvali; Savannah Lucia Sabeen de Guzman of St. Paul College Pasig and Sophia Yzabel Tiu of Special Education Center for the Gifted.

The bronze medal winners are Eunice Gaerlan of BHC Institution, Erin Leighton Go and Carlo Aceret of St. Jude Catholic School, Kaylee Nichole Tan of Pangasinan Universal Institute, Miguel Yee of St. John’s Institute Bacolod, Issaiah Sean Escobido of Iloilo Scholastic Academy, Alexander Gabriel Ho of Paco Citizen Academy and Anne Dorothy Madrazo of Timoteo Paez Elementary School.

MTG-trained math students have won 242 medals so far this year from international contests, bringing the country’s medal haul to 6,556 in five years.

Ilocano Ganal becomes first Filipino to play in Liga ACB

Ilocano Ganal becomes first Filipino to play in Liga ACB

fastbreak.com.ph

October 14, 2024

Ilocano guard Aaron Ganal has made history as the first-ever Filipino to play in Spain’s Liga ACB, which is regarded as one of the strongest domestic leagues in the world alongside the NBA.

Ganal made his Liga ACB debut with the MoraBanc Andorra team during their 112-87 victory against Básquet Coruña on Saturday night (Sunday in Manila).

The 6-foot-1 guard played for nearly a minute and scored three points, successfully hitting three of his four free throw attempts for MoraBanc Andorra.

Ganal first signed a one-year deal with MoraBanc Andorra in August 2022 but did not see action in the Liga ACB. He returned to the team this year.

The 20-year-old guard previously played for FC Barcelona’s youth basketball team and was invited to join Spain’s Under-16 national team pool.

Gilas Pilipinas Youth Team official Enzo Flojo previously stated that Ganal considered playing for the Philippine team but did not go through with it, as he would have to renounce his Andorran citizenship.

“‪Would’ve been terrific to see him part of the Batang Gilas pool, but getting a Phi passport means he’d have to renounce his Andorran citizenship. Dual citizenship is forbidden in Andorran law,” Flojo wrote.

Ganal’s father, Bhoyet, was born and raised in Ilocos Norte and previously played as a naturalized player for the Andorran national basketball team.