Monday, February 28, 2022
Sunday, February 27, 2022
Saturday, February 26, 2022
Friday, February 25, 2022
Thursday, February 24, 2022
‘Paahon na kami’: Entering ‘new era,’ ABS-CBN and Star Magic commit to growth of stars who stayed after the broadcast shutdown
Miguel Dumaual, ABS-CBN News
Are doors still open for stars who left ABS-CBN after it was forced off free television? Anything is possible, according to the network’s TV production and talent agency head Lauren Dyogi.
Dyogi, who is also leads Star Magic, was asked about his relationship with homegrown artists who had transferred networks or management during the franchise crisis on Wednesday, at the “Kapamilya Strong” media conference.
The grand event saw 11 artists signing or renewing their contract with ABS-CBN, nearly two years after the Philippines’ largest media company was denied its broadcast franchise.
“I would always respect the decision of every individual, kasi hindi ko naman hawak ‘yung buhay ng bawat isa sa kanila,” Dyogi said. “They made decisions based on their life circumstances. Hindi ko makikuwestiyon iyon kung may pangangailangan sila o meron silang plano sa buhay na sa tingin nila hindi maibibigay ng ABS-CBN at Star Magic. That’s their option.”
“But I’d also like to say na para sa akin, mas importante ‘yung mga kasama ko dito,” he added, referring to the stars who signed with ABS-CBN on Wednesday. “I don’t like to even spend my energy and my time thinking about people who left, because they’ve decided to move on and do something else.”
Artists who inked their respective contract with ABS-CBN were OPM pillars Regine Velasquez and Gary Valenciano, and Star Magic talents Jolina Magdangal, Shaina Magdayao, Erich Gonzales, Gerald Anderson, Jake Cuenca, Sam Milby, Zanjoe Marudo, Loisa Andalio, and Ronnie Alonte.
Similar contract-singing events were held in 2021, notably the first edition of “Kapamilya Strong” and Star Magic’s “Black Pen Day.” The latter saw over 40 artists, both newcomers and veterans, formalizing being a Kapamilya.
“I’d like to put my energy and my focus and my love to the ones who are here, ‘yung kasama mo ngayon, sa hirap at ginhawa. Iyon naman ang importante, e,” Dyogi said.
“The loss of the franchise gave us a lot of insight into what’s important in our lives, and who are the people who are also important and who value that relationship. Iyon na muna ang tinitingnan ko,” the executive added.
The franchise denial of ABS-CBN came amid a raging pandemic which had halted most media productions, crippling the network further as it grappled with twin crises. The forced shutdown resulted in the retrenchment of thousands of ABS-CBN workers, including entire divisions and units.
“In the future, I can’t say… We don’t what’s there. Maliit lang naman ang industriya ng entertainment. So hindi ako nagsasalita nang tapos na it’s for good, na never ulit magkakasama,” he said.
“But for now, ABS-CBN and Star Magic will focus on the artists who decided to stay and be with us and journey with us and commit to be part of these interesting times. We’ve gone through the worst already. Paahon na kami. Exciting times are just ahead.”
‘INTO A NEW ERA’
The “Kapamilya Strong” program also launched the year-long celebration of Star Magic’s 30th anniversary, which Dyogi described as a transition into a “new era” of management style and output.
“Nagbago kasi ang landscape, e. Hindi na katulad ng dati na we were on free TV. It was so easy to come up with programs. We had seemingly unlimited resources at that time. Ngayon, iba na. Iba na ang engagement — hindi lang sa free TV, kung 'di pati sa social media and a lot of different platforms,” he said.
“The artists are still there wanting to build connections. Nandito pa rin kami para maging katuwang nila, to help them, to support them, to really guide them to reach their goals,” he said.
The anniversary celebration, for instance, significantly includes online platforms, aside from concerts and the return of the traditional Star Magic Ball and All-Star Games.
The agency is set to release new titles under Star Magic Studio and Star Magic Records, and is partnering with TFC for global events, Mega Magazine for Pride celebration in June, and Metro Magazine for its anniversary special.
Fans of Star Magic artists can also expect original content on YouTube, live streaming campaigns on Kumu, charity programs through ABS-CBN Foundation, and a series of concerts.
“We will continue to evolve, grow, and make activities not only to build camaraderie among the artists but also to build their character and their skills,” Dyogi said.
ABS-CBN and Star Magic have also put premium on international collaborations for its productions and opportunities for its talents.
“We’re venturing to the international arena, not only through our productions but through partnerships. We’ve asked a lot of our artists to audition in international productions, so ang dami-daming possibilities,” he said.
ABS-CBN International Production and Co-Production, headed by Ruel S. Bayani, earlier said that Star Magic artists are tapped as cast members of its global titles. Cuenca, for instance, co-stars with fellow Star Magic artist Arjo Atayde in the upcoming suspense-thriller “The Cattleya Killer.”
“Imagine what we were doing during the pandemic, at a time na talagang gipit,” Dyogi said. “Now na tumatayo tayo nang husto, nakikita natin na mas malawak ang mundo, mas maraming puwedeng gawin, mas maraming puwedeng puntahan.”
Wednesday, February 23, 2022
Sam Milby’s advice to aspiring artists? Passion for craft comes first
In 16 years in showbiz after his stint in the reality TV show, “Pinoy Big Brother”, actor Sam Milby shared Wednesday advice to aspiring artists.
Asked about his milestones after his contract renewal with ABS-CBN, Milby took a trip down memory lane when he was still starting his career in the lead role for "Maging Sino Ka Man."
“[Dapat] tama ‘yung placement ng passion niyo hindi dahil gusto niyong sumikat," he said in a press conference.
"I think it’s ‘yung passion sa acting because if gusto niyo lang sumikat, I think that ‘yung purpose of why you want to become an actor is wrong. I think it should be ‘yung passion sa acting."
Milby said he would always be there whenever he was needed and expressed his gratitude for the success he had with the network.
"We give out the best content and ABS-CBN, with me, we look out for the best interest and ako sobrang grateful ako, paglabas ng PBB house, my 16 years of business has been fruitful," he said.
"I’ll forever be grateful to ABS-CBN and this new contract, of course. Thank you so much. As long as ABS-CBN needs me, nandito lang ako."
Milby was part of the debut season of "Pinoy Big Brother" and placed 8th overall.
He, then, started his career as an actor with "Maging Sino Ka Man" playing the role of JB, and has released multiple hit songs.
Besides Milby, Loisa Andalio, Ronnie Alonte, Jolina Magdangal, Erich Gonzales, Shaina Magdayao, Gerald Anderson, Zanjoe Marudo, Jake Cuenca, Gary Valenciano, and Regine Velasquez also signed new contracts with ABS-CBN.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/02/23/22/this-is-sam-milbys-advice-to-aspiring-artists
Ronnie Alonte di inakalang mabibigyan muli ng kontrata sa ABS-CBN
Karl Cedrick Basco, ABS-CBN News
Hindi inakala ng aktor na si Ronnie Alonte na mabibigyan siya muli ng pagkakataong magkaroon ng eksklusibong kontrata sa ABS-CBN network, lalo pa’t hindi pa siya matagal sa industriya.
Sa ginanap na contract signing nitong Miyerkoles na pinangalanang “Kapamilya Strong 2022,” ikinagulat niya ang pagpirma sa istasyon na lalong naging motibasyon para pagbutihin niya ang trabaho.
“Di ko rin ine-expect. Pangpitong taon ko palang to ngayon sa industriya. Sobrang happy ako kasi kagaya nito, binigyan tayo ng panibagong kontrata ulit. Excited na ko sa mga susunod pang mangyayari,” ani Alonte.
Malaki ang utang na loob umano niya sa kompanya dahil ito ang nagtiwala sa kaniya noong nagsisimula at walang-wala pa siya.
“Dito ako nagsimula. Ito ’yung bumuhay sa’kin nu’ng dating walang-wala pa ko. Hanggang ngayon, andito pa rin ako,” saad ng aktor.
Nagpapasalamat din ito na sa kabila ng pagdami ng mga umuusbong na bagong artista ay hindi pa rin ito nawawalan ng proyekto sa ABS-CBN.
Nakatakdang bumida si Alonte kasama ang nobyang si Loisa Andalio sa seryeng “Love in 40 Days.”
Sa kaniyang pagpirma ng kontrata, handa aniya siyang ipagpatuloy ang nasimulan sa showbiz at magawa pa ang mga pinapangarap na proyekto.
“Kung ano ’yung nasimulan ko, ipagpatuloy pa. And ’yung mga dream roles, magawa pa. Ito ’yung pampatunay na matutuloy na talaga,” sambit nito.
May payo rin si Alonte, na nakilala bilang miyembro ng “Hashtags” ng “It’s Showtime!”, sa mga nagnanais na maging artista rin sa hinaharap.
“Ituloy n’yo lang ang pangarap n'yo. Kung ano ’yung nararamdaman n'yo, go lang. ’Wag makikinig sa iba. Sundin n'yo ’yung nasa puso n'yo,” ani Alonte.
Bukod kay Alonte, pumirma rin ng bagong kontrata sina Andalio, Jolina Magdangal, Erich Gonzales, Shaina Magdayao, Sam Milby, Gerald Anderson, Zanjoe Marudo, Jake Cuenca, Gary Valenciano, at Regine Velasquez.
Shaina Magdayao looks forward to ‘bolder, more courageous’ roles
Josiah Antonio, ABS-CBN News
Actress Shaina Magdayao said Wednesday she was looking forward to bolder and more courageous roles for the next 2 years as she renewed her contract with ABS-CBN.
"What’s in store for me? I guess akala ko wala na because I thought I’ve done everything already but the network keeps on offering me good projects, and more than anything, it’s the collaborations siguro," Magdayao said in a press conference.
"I still hope to work with our greats, great actors, great directors that we have and mangilan-ngilan na tao rito sa stage na ‘to ang nakasama ko and I always say na I’m grateful for the leading men, different men and women that I get to work with kasi ibang Shaina ‘yung nabibigay ko because of them also, with their help.
"I’m definitely sure for the next 2 years marami pang collaboration with our good actors and directors. This is my boldest and most courageous way of expressing my loyalty and gratitude to the network kasi in the middle of a pandemic, binigyan nila ako ng trabaho."
Magdayao said she was grateful to still be playing a major role in the hit TV drama series "Ang Probinsyano."
"Mahirap ‘yun because we’re in the midst of a pandemic and with everything that’s happening to the country and also to the network. But now I think is the perfect time to profess our gratitude and loyalty to the network," she said.
"Ang nagbigay sa’tin ng trabaho kahit nasa gitna tayo ng pandemya. Ako, I can say na mayroon akong trabaho, may ‘Ang Probinsyano’ because of ABS-CBN and I will always be grateful."
Magdayao debuted in “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” in February 2020, as Police Maj. Roxanne Opeña, who was assigned to team up with Coco Martin’s Cardo and Task Force Agila for a mission.
She was originally set to star in the primetime drama for only 2 months, but has since stayed on, during which time the iconic series hurdled both the onset of the coronavirus pandemic and ABS-CBN’s franchise denial.
Once at odds with Cardo, Roxanne has since proven a loyal ally, standing by Agila, now tagged as fugitives, as they fight to reclaim the Palace from a terror group.
Aside from Magdayao, Loisa Andalio, Ronnie Alonte, Jolina Magdangal, Erich Gonzales, Sam Milby, Gerald Anderson, Zanjoe Marudo, Jake Cuenca, Gary Valenciano, and Regine Velasquez also renewed contracts with ABS-CBN.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/02/23/22/shaina-looks-forward-to-bolder-more-courageous-roles
Zanjoe Marudo on staying as Kapamilya: ‘Meron akong forever’
Karl Cedrick Basco, ABS-CBN News
“Sa ABS, sa Kapamilya, mas dun ako sigurado na meron akong forever.”
This is what veteran actor Zanjoe Marudo said when he sealed a new exclusive contract with the ABS-CBN Network on Wednesday.
Marudo took pride in how the Kapamilya channel has valued him in his showbiz career that has spanned 15 years since joining the reality show “Pinoy Big Brother" (PBB).
“Ramdam na ramdam ko sa loob ng 15 years kung gaano nila ko pinahalagahan din. Yung mga chances at opportunities na binigay nila nang paulit-ulit. Hindi nila ako tinigilan na pagkatiwalaan,” Marudo said during the “Kapamilya Strong 2022” event.
The actor credited “PBB” for his fame, noting that his entry into the famous yellow house opened the door to many other opportunities in his career.
Marudo also professed his loyalty to the network despite the twin crises that has beset the company – non-renewal of its franchise and the pandemic – as he vowed to stay with ABS-CBN.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/02/23/22/zanjoe-on-staying-as-kapamilya-meron-akong-forever
Despite franchise loss, pandemic, Loisa Andalio feels secured with ABS-CBN
Karl Cedrick Basco, ABS-CBN News
Actress Loisa Andalio remains a true-blue Kapamilya as she inked a new deal with ABS-CBN on Wednesday.
Andalio, a former Pinoy Big Brother housemate, joined a prestigious group of artists who renewed their contracts with the network in an event billed as “Kapamilya Strong 2022.”
During the press conference, the actress revealed that she was not worried about her future, even after the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country and her home station was not granted a new franchise in 2020.
“Nakakagulat yung pangyayari nung pandemic. Sa iba, nakaka-trauma talaga yung nangyari. [Pero] sobrang happy ako kasi pamilya talaga kami rito,” she said.
“Hindi ako ganun na nangamba. Magtiwala ka rin kasi hindi ka nila pababayaan.”
Andalio said she felt blessed to sign an exclusive contract with the network which she and her fans waited for so long.
She explained that she owes her career to ABS-CBN which helped her as her family's breadwinner.
“Napakahalaga kasi napakaraming naitulong sa'kin ng pagiging Kapamilya -- bilang bread winner ng family. Hindi lang sa financial. Masaya ako makapagbigay ng saya, aral, tulong, and inspirasyon,” Andalio said.
The actress reminded aspiring celebrities to keep on dreaming and work hard.
“Mangarap lang kayo nang mangarap kasi libre lang 'yan. Kailangan may kilos din at tiyaga. Wag kayong susuko sa pangarap n'yo. Once gusto mo yung isang bagay, tapos para sayo talaga, ibibigay ni Lord yun para sa'yo,” she said.
Andalio is set to star in a series with her boyfriend Ronnie Alonte titled “Love in 40 Days” under Dreamscape Entertainment.
The couple was part of "The Goodbye Girl" starring Angelica Panganiban.
Based on the book by Noreen Capili, the iWantTFC original title was directed by Derick Cabrido, with Dreamscape Entertainment and Clever Minds co-producing.
Aside from Andalio, the following also signed deals with ABS-CBN: Alonte, Jolina Magdangal, Erich Gonzales, Shaina Magdayao, Sam Milby, Gerald Anderson, Zanjoe Marudo, Jake Cuenca, Gary Valenciano, and Regine Velasquez.
Tuesday, February 22, 2022
Monday, February 21, 2022
Sunday, February 20, 2022
Saturday, February 19, 2022
PBA: Sweet-shooting Wong shines as Magnolia extends win streak
Adrian Wong shot 6-of-7 from the 3-point line as he helped Magnolia to a sixth-straight win at the expense of Phoenix Super LPG in the PBA Governors Cup on Saturday.
Import Mike Harris added a double-double with 20 points and 13 rebounds to seal the Hotshots' 103-83 blow out of the Fuel Masters.
Wong stepped up his game to make up for the absences of injured players Calvin Abueva and Rome Dela Rosa. The Hotshots led by as much as 25 points.
Wong, who led the Hotshots' breakaway in the third quarter, finished with a career-high 18 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists.
Paul Lee also contributed 14 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals, while Mark Barroca scored 13 points to go with 7 assists.
Magnolia improved to 6-0 and stepped closer to a twice-to-beat bonus in the quarterfinals.
Phoenix, whose win streak ended a 2 games, fell to 4-3.
Matthew Wright had 18 points for the Fuel Masters. Import Dominique Sutton settled for 9 points.
The scores:
Magnolia 103 – Harris 20, Wong 18, Lee 14, Barroca 13, Escoto 9, Corpuz 8, Reavis 6, Sangalang 6, Ahanmisi 5, Jalalon 4, Brill 0, Dionisio 0.
Phoenix Super LPG 83 – Wright 18, Robles 15, Manganti 9, Sutton 9, Garcia 8, Demusis 8, Perkins 6, Melecio 5, Jazul 3, Chua 2, Pascual 0, Camacho 0, Rios 0.
Quarters: 21-20; 39-34; 75-54; 103-83.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/19/22/pba-wong-shines-as-magnolia-extends-win-streak
PBA: TNT shoots lights out of Ginebra in dominating win
(UPDATED) Talk 'N Text went on a shooting spree Friday evening, crushing Barangay Ginebra, 119-92, in the PBA Governors' Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
It was TNT's last game before shifting focus on duty with Gilas Pilipinas in the coming FIBA World Cup Asian qualifying first window.
The Tropang GIGA rattled in a total of 21 three-pointers against the Kings. who apparently surrendered the fight midway the fourth period.
Ryan Reyes nailed 8 of his 9 attempts from the three-point area to finish with 24 points.
Mikey Williams scored 22 markers, including 4 triples, while Kib Montalbo and Glenn Khobuntin added 3 treys each.
"We shot the lights out. Ryan (Reyes) shot 8-of-9 and we wish we can shoot like that every night," said TNT coach Chot Reyes.
It was the Tropang GIGA's second straight win since beating San Miguel, 96-81, Wednesday.
Ginebra fell to 3-3, losing their last three games even as TNT climbed to 4-4.
The Tropang GIGA will be resting for a little while before lending their services to Gilas Pilipinas which will battle India, New Zealand and South Korea in the FIBA qualifiers.
With his performance from the rainbow area, Reyes made a case for a place in Gilas.
"Ryan is in our team because of his defense, that's his main contribution to us. Last time, he defended against Orlando Johnson and tonight against Justine Brownlee," said the TNT coach.
"Every time he makes a three-point shot or any other production is a bonus... That's the kind of player he is. He's always ready."
Justin Browlee led Ginebra with 25 points.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/tnt-shoots-lights-out-of-ginebra
MPL Season 9: TNC wax hot to keep defending champs Blacklist winless
TNC Pro Team continued their hot streak at the expense of Blacklist International, who fell to their second straight loss in Season 9 of the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League, Saturday.
The result brought TNC to their second straight win as they seek to redeem themselves from a cellar-dweller finish in Season 8.
TNC's Daniel "SDZyz" Chu's Lancelot waxed hot in the early game with four kills.
World championship MVP Kiel "Oheb" Soriano kept Blacklist at bay as he started getting his items mid-game.
But TNC eventually secured enough firepower and amassed a 14,000 gold lead, en route to the Game 1 win capped off by a wipeout on Blacklist's players down the lord lane.
SDZyz earned the MVP recognition with his Lancelot, with a 7/0/2 kill-death-assist record.
Blacklist made unorthodox changes to their lineup which included Oheb using Chou, and Kent Xavier "KEVIER" Lopez using a Ling.
The surprise factor, however, did not faze TNC, even as Edward "Edward" Jay Dapadap pulled Blacklist to a good start with his Dyrroth. TNC went on to secure the series in an 18-minute Game 2 matchup.
Mark Genzon “Kramm” Rusiana's Esmeralda emerged as the MVP in Game 2 with his Esmeralda, who drew a 4/0/2 KDA record.
Blacklist will try to get into the win column as they face Nexplay EVOS on Friday, while TNC will try to keep their win streak alive as they take on Echo PH the next day.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/19/22/mpl-s9-tnc-sends-blacklist-reeling-to-2nd-straight-loss
Mobile Legends: Onic PH tramples V33wise-less Blacklist to open MPL Season 9
Onic Philippines steamrolled defending world champions Blacklist International in a rematch of the world championship finals, as the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League opened its 9th season Friday.
Blacklist were without duo Johnmar "OhMyV33nus" Vilalluna and Danerie James "Wise" Del Rosario, who are taking a break for the entire season. Kent Xavier “KEVIER” Lopez was slated to fill in the jungler role left by Wise, while Mark Jayson "ESON" Gerardo assumed the support role vacated by OhMyV33nus.
Despite OhMyV33nus' absence, Blacklist were able to pick their signature Estes in Game 1.
But Onic PH, parading the lineup that propelled them to the first slot in the world championships, trampled them from the early game, shutting down Kevier's jungling and dismantled any chance of Blacklist grouping up, thanks to Gerald "Dlarskie" Trinchera's Phoveus.
Kairi was given the MVP recognition for Game 1, with a monstrous 7/1/4 kill-death-assist record, highlighted by an early triple kill that helped them pack early game aggression.
Blacklist overcame an early-game slump in Game 2, with world championship MVP Kiel "OHEB" Soriano pushing down the side lanes and taking down the lord to help the world champions take the gold lead.
With both squads busy clashing in the 24th minute, it took a minion game for Blacklist to close it out, demolish Onic's base, and force a rubber match.
OHEB won the MVP honors in Game 2, with his role in building Blacklist's macro plays, with a 3/2/3 KDA record.
Onic PH was aggressive anew in Game 3, thanks to Kairi's Fanny, which drew five kills in the first 10 minutes of the matchup.
After falling behind early into Game 1, Kevier came alive in the 15th minute, taking down Mark "Markyyyyy" Christian Capacio and Kairi just as Onic PH were seconds away from destroying their base. He was also able to take the lord as Blacklist tried to climb their way back into the match.
With Markyyyyy gunning down Eson's Ruby, Onic PH found the opening to secure the series in the 23rd minute mark, and eventually destroy the defending champions' base.
Kairi took the MVP recognition anew with his Fanny, taking an 8/2/7 KDA record.
Mobile Legends: Echo dominant in win vs. KarlTzy's former team Bren
Angela Coloma, ABS-CBN News
Echo PH steamrolled past Bren Esports in their highly anticipated Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League Season 9 matchup Saturday, as Karl "KarlTzy" Nepomuceno squared up against his former team.
Bren's rookies Kenneth "Saxa" Fedelin and Vincent "Joy Boy" De Guzman caused problems for Echo PH in the first few minutes of Game 1. But Jankurt Russel "KurTzy" Matira's Vale helped propel Echo PH back into the game, as his Windblow disrupted any chance of Bren taking the lord in the late game.
Bren shut down KurTzy in the late moments of the game. But Echo PH, were able to quickly counter with a wipeout, capped off with a triple kill by M2 world championship MVP KarlTzy, to take Game 1.
KurTzy took the MVP recognition in Game 1 with his Vale, with a 8/1/4 kill-death-assist ratio.
Bren held a small lead at the start of Game 2, but Echo dominated, as Tristan "Yawi" Cabrera's Chou placed crucial pick offs to set his teammates up.
After Echo took the lord, they went on to pounce and wipe Bren Esports off the map, before taking down the opponent's base and securing the series.
Yawi got the MVP recognition with his Chou, for a 1/1/10 KDA ratio.
Echo PH will face Omega Esports Saturday for their last game of the week.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/19/22/mobile-legends-echo-dominates-vs-karltzys-former-team-bren
PBA: Jeron Teng sparks Alaska's fightback vs Terrafirma
Jeron Teng lit up Terrafirma in the fourth quarter as Alaska continued its "Last Dance" with a 102-97 come-from-behind win in the PBA Governors' Cup on Saturday.
Teng tallied a career-high 30 points and helped the Aces claw their way back from a 20-point deficit.
Abu Tratter added 21 points and 10 rebounds, helping the Aces to its second straight win since the team announced its upcoming departure from the league.
Allyn Bulanadi fired 10 points, including 3 triples, as import Olu Ashaolu tallied 11 points and 19 rebounds for Alaska, which improved to 5-2 for solo third place in the team standings.
Antonio Hester scored 24 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists for the Dyip. Joshua Munzon added 21 points.
Terrafirma dropped to 2-5 win-loss after squandering an 81-61 lead.
The scores:
Alaska 102 – Teng 30, Tratter 21, Ashaolu 11, Bulanadi 10, Ahanmisi 7, Ilagan 4, Herndon 4, DiGregorio 4, Stockton 4, Faundo 4, Tolomia 3, Adamos 0, Publico 0, Racal 0.
Terrafirma 97 – Hester 24, Munzon 21, Tiongson 16, Go 11, Calvo 8, Daquioag 8, Cahilig 5, Camson 4, Pascual 0, Ramos 0, Batiller 0.
Quarters: 20-25; 42-28; 66-83; 102-97.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/19/22/pba-alaskas-jeron-teng-torches-terrafirma
PBA: 2 more firms express interest in Alaska's franchise
There are now five companies that have expressed interest to purchase Alaska's franchise.
Three of them have reached out to PBA commissioner Willie Marcial, while the other two relayed their intentions to Alaska team governor Dickie Bachmann.
"May tatlo nang may gusto. May tatlo nang nagtatanong sa prangkisa (ng Alaska)," said Marcial in the PBA website. "Tapos may dalawa pang nagtanong din kay Gov. Dickie."
This, after team owner Wilfred Uytengsu surprised the basketball world by announcing that the franchise will leave the PBA after a fabled 35-year stint.
When he made the announcement on Wednesday, Uytengsu said there was still no possible buyer to the team.
But interest in the franchise later surfaced.
Marcial said a process will have to be followed in the buyout.
"Pero kung meron mang interesado, marami pa ring gagawin 'yun. Titignan natin 'yung financial capability, 'yung background ng kumpanya, at iba pa," he said.
"Tapos ibibigay natin 'yun sa (PBA) Board. Kailangan ng two-third votes para maaprubahan sila."
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/pba-2-more-firms-express-interest-in-alaska-franchise
'Nakakasawa na 'yung Chuuu eh': Why SDZyz changed his IGN
Angela Coloma, ABS-CBN News
When TNC Pro Team revealed their leaner lineup coming into the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League, many were surprised to see that Daniel Chu changed his username from "Chuuu," to "SDZyz."
At one point, people did not know how to pronounce it.
The TNC Pro Team mainstay jungler revealed the reason behind the name change after their win against Omega Esports in their opening match during Season 9.
"Para maiba naman po yung IGN (in-game name) ko. Nakakasawa na po kasi yung Chuuu eh. (laughs) SD po galing sa pangalan ko, Shemaiah Daniel," he said in a post-match interview.
But aside from the name change, SDZyz says his discipline changed towards the start of the new MPL season.
"Nabago ko sa sarili ko 'yung pagiging disiplinado po," he said.
For captain Ben “Benthings” Maglaque, their gameplay changed ahead of the season, as they look to improve from last season's 8th place finish.
"Lahat po kami iisang galaw na po kami. Hindi na po kami individual play," Benthings said.
For Season 9, TNC is parading a leaner roster, with SDZyz and Benthings as the remaining players from last season.
TNC will be duking it out against world champions Blacklist International on Saturday, Feb. 19, at 8 p.m.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/19/22/mobile-legends-why-did-chuuu-change-his-ign-to-sdzyz
Friday, February 18, 2022
Mobile Legends: Eyes on the elusive title for Onic PH
Angela Coloma, ABS-CBN News
Since they entered the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League, Onic PH has fallen short of winning the title locally, and recently, globally.
In Seasons 4 and 5, they've fallen short of the local championship, and it was the same in Season 8, and in the M3 world championship last December, where they lost to Blacklist International.
After avenging that M3 finals loss on Friday with a 2-1 win, the architects of the "banana split" strategy said they had their eyes on winning the title.
"Gusto na namin mag-number 1 sa MPL season and magpatuloy sa lakas namin na mag-dominate hanggang playoffs at mag-champion," Onic PH star jungler Kairi "Kairi" Rayosdesol, who took the MVP honors, said after the match.
But for team captain Allen "Baloyskie" Baloy, their conquest doesn't stop in winning the local title.
"Gusto ko patunayan na hindi lang namin [kayang] mag-runner up hindi lang sa Pilipinas kung di sa ibang bansa," Baloyskie said.
Onic PH will square off with Nexplay EVOS next on Sunday's first game at 4 p.m.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/mpl-season-9-its-eyes-on-the-elusive-title-for-onic-ph
Mobile Legends: Eyes on the elusive title for Onic PH
Since they entered the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League, Onic PH has fallen short of winning the title locally, and recently, globally.
In Seasons 4 and 5, they've fallen short of the local championship, and it was the same in Season 8, and in the M3 world championship last December, where they lost to Blacklist International.
After avenging that M3 finals loss on Friday with a 2-1 win, the architects of the "banana split" strategy said they had their eyes on winning the title.
"Gusto na namin mag-number 1 sa MPL season and magpatuloy sa lakas namin na mag-dominate hanggang playoffs at mag-champion," Onic PH star jungler Kairi "Kairi" Rayosdesol, who took the MVP honors, said after the match.
But for team captain Allen "Baloyskie" Baloy, their conquest doesn't stop in winning the local title.
"Gusto ko patunayan na hindi lang namin [kayang] mag-runner up hindi lang sa Pilipinas kung di sa ibang bansa," Baloyskie said.
Onic PH will square off with Nexplay EVOS next on Sunday's first game at 4 p.m.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/mpl-season-9-its-eyes-on-the-elusive-title-for-onic-ph
MMA: Fil-Am Mark Striegl vows to bounce back from UFC debut loss
Mathew Scott, South China Morning Post
Bantamweight returns to cage to fight American Chas Skelly at UFC Vegas 48
It took more than a decade for Philippine-based bantamweight Mark Striegl to get his first fight in the UFC. It took exactly 51 seconds for it to end.
But if all those years in the cage have taught the 33-year-old one thing it’s you take your setbacks much like your successes in that your attention quickly switches to the next challenge.
“Definitely not the way I wanted to debut but life can be a roller coaster, especially in the sport that is MMA. It’s actually even crazier in MMA,” says Striegl. “So I just took that loss in my stride, focused on the positives and chalked it all up to life experience. At the end of the day it’s all part of the journey.”
The 33-year-old Striegl (18-3, one no contest) returns to the Octagon this weekend to face American Chas Skelly (18-3, one no contest) on the UFC Vegas 48 card out of the organisation’s Apex facility. The bout adds another chapter to what has been a wild ride across the past two years, one that has showcased the highs and lows of the sport, as much as it has life shadowed by the global pandemic.
There was the joy of being lifted out of regional promotions and being offered a UFC contract, in mid-2020. Then there was a positive Covid-19 test that ruled out Striegl’s scheduled debut in August of that year. There was that loss to Said Nurmagomedov (15-2), a fight the Russian ended with a short left, and a flurry when Striegl hit the canvas, in just under a minute. Then there was recovery from the damage inflicted as Striegl had his battered orbital socket rebuilt.
Striegl was back in the gym and ready to roll again in 2021 only to hurt himself in training And so the wait for a fight began once again.
“People talk about UFC jitters, but I felt okay before that first fight. It felt like just another fight to me,” Striegl said. “I was just happy that I was there and now it’s just been a case of waiting to get back in there and fight again. Sure I’ve had setbacks but that is all part of the game.”
Little wonder that the Striegl saga has been picked up by local broadcasters in the Philippines, and a three-part documentary that follows all the drama has been screening nationwide over the past month. Striegl is the only fighter on the UFC books to be based full-time out of the Philippines, a remarkable notion in itself given the country’s rich history in combat sports, and a population that lives and breathes the stuff.
There’s colour, too, in the fact that for more than a decade Striegl has been based out of in Baguio City, the famed mountain retreat on the northern island of Luzon that in the past has hosted Philippine boxing legend Manny Pacquiao and his brutal pre-fight training camps. It’s a city that echoes with the history of combat, dating right back to the 1700s when the local tribesmen took on the invading Spanish colonialists, and they were never fully conquered.
The Tokyo-born Striegl first came to Baguio for a fight – against one of the warriors from the local Team Lakay MMA talent factory – and he then fell in love with a local lass, and the city.
“I’m not a local son of Baguio but definitely I love the culture,” explains Striegl. “The people from Baguio are strong, proud mountain people. I had heard about Manny Pacquiao training there, and that the city had all these great fighters, and all this history. I feel I definitely have a lot of pride for Baguio. I’m happy living there and proud that I live there.”
With the memory of the loss to Nurmagomedov now consigned to history, Striegl is looking forward to giving the fans at home something to cheer at the UFC Apex this weekend.
“Chas is a scrapper,” says Striegl, who’s been training out of George Castro’s MMA Lab in Peoria, Arizona, for the past month. “He’s just a scrappy, hard-nosed veteran fighter. And that’s what I expect out of him. I think it’s gonna be a tough dogfight, and I’m ready for that. I’ve trained hard for that. I think Chas is a great person to test my skills against and I like how we match up with him.”
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/mma-mark-striegl-vows-to-bounce-back-from-ufc-debut-loss
FIBA 3X3 tour 2022 to hold stops in Manila, Cebu
FIBA has announced its 3x3 World Tour 2022 which includes Manila and Cebu among its stops this year.
FIBA will hold the Manila Masters on May 28-29 after opening the world tour in Utsunomiya, Japan on May 14-15.
After 5 events, the Tour will be heading to Cebu for a 3x3 event to be stages on October 1-2.
The Tour will end with its finals in Abu Dhabi on December 9-10.
There will be a total of 13 FIBA 3x3 events in 2022.
FIBA said a first list of international qualifiers (challengers) will be released in March.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/fiba-3x3-tour-2022-to-hold-stops-in-manila-cebu
Olympics: China's long, strange Olympic hockey trip ends, next stop uncertain
Martin Quin Pollard and Tony Munroe, Reuters
BEIJING - China's unlikely Olympic ice hockey journey, one of the biggest curiosities of the Beijing Games, ended with four losses in four matches, temporary citizenships, and an uncertain future.
The home team relied entirely on a roster of players from the Kunlun Red Star franchise in Russia's top league and its core of 15 foreign-born players. They logged almost all of the ice time and kept the team competitive, but fuelled constant questions about their citizenship, which they mostly avoided.
Foreign players were asked to apply to become Chinese citizens in time for the Olympics and given assurances that paperwork would be taken care of, two of them said, but at least one player said he did not have to give up his passport.
Now, Chinese authorities and Kunlun Red Star, owned by a Hong Kong energy billionaire, must decide how much more to invest in a national side that is ranked 32nd globally in a bid to qualify in four years for the 12-team Olympic tournament, presumably with more home-grown talent.
Their Olympic duties over, several players told Reuters they don't know exactly what's next for Kunlun, which plays in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
"From what I've heard, we plan on continuing the programme and we're going to be making a push to keep growing the game in China and help China move up the world rankings," said California-born Cory Kane, who joined Kunlun five years ago as a "heritage" player - he has Chinese roots through his mother.
"But they haven't confirmed anything on where exactly we'll be playing, or if they're going to be playing in the KHL or not," he told Reuters after scoring both China goals in the 7-2 loss on Tuesday night to Canada that ended its tournament.
Chinese sports officials did not respond to requests for comment and Kunlun Red Star declined to comment.
Kunlun has had a turbulent run since its founding in 2016 by Hong Kong-based Billy Ngok, soon after Beijing won its bid to host the Olympics.
In March 2017, Kunlun signed a "China Ice Hockey 2022 plan" with China's General Sports Administration to develop and help produce a Chinese team. The Olympics and an automatic place as hosts were in its sights.
Ngok could not be reached for comment.
HOCKEY NOMADS
Kunlun was plagued by instability, including moving from Beijing to Shanghai, then back to Beijing, flying vast distances to compete in the far-flung KHL. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the team has been based in Moscow due to China's strict border controls.
There were competing strategies among club management, its mainly foreign coaches and the government-run Chinese Ice Hockey Association (CIHA), said Mark Simon, a Canadian consultant for Kunlun until early 2020.
"It's just a lot of moving parts, you know, going in different directions," he said.
Personnel turnover was high. In 2020, many Russian players were brought in for a season. This past season saw an influx of home-grown Chinese players.
"It was really wild, like there would be games where guys play really well. In the next game they would not even play because they want to play a native Chinese guy or mainland Chinese guy to get them experience playing games," said a former player who declined to be identified.
The team's performance suffered, forcing the sport's governing body to reconsider China's participation in the Olympics before finally allowing it. Kunlun has by far the worst KHL record this year.
ELIGIBILITY ISSUE
Late last year, foreign players were asked to sign documents that would enable them to become Chinese citizens for the duration of the Beijing Games, five people with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters, declining to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter.
China does not ordinarily allow dual citizenship.
One document seen by Reuters, an apparent attempt to assuage the concerns of a player, said Red Star Culture & Sports Holding Ltd in Hong Kong would handle Chinese citizenship arrangements and cover legal fees and support if he faced any legal issues around restoring his Canadian nationality after the Games.
It also said if the player gets stuck in China because of a "passport related issue" he would receive food, accommodation in Shenzhen and transport, and from Aug. 1, 2022, a coaching job until he was able to return to Canada.
The dollar value of compensation was left blank, and one former player said none of them signed it.
Several players decided to opt out of the Games.
But after what one described as "back and forth" discussion, many decided to proceed with their applications for Chinese citizenship. The player said he did not have to turn over his passport, and had not received a Chinese one.
"I was not handed it. I was told we have a Chinese passport for sport reasons, like a sport passport," he said.
China's foreign ministry did not respond to a request for comment.
The China team received an ovation from the home crowd after frustrating heavily-favoured Canada until late in its final game, and the players repeatedly expressed pride in representing China, gratitude for the opportunity and a commitment to continuing to grow hockey in the country.
Kane, 31, whose career has taken him from Ferris State University in Michigan to the North American minor leagues and the Czech Republic, said the Olympics was the highlight amid what he described as "tough times" over the last five years.
"Every year I think we had one new coach, some bad losing streaks, a lot of guys in and out of the locker room, and there's just a lot of other stuff that goes in the background, but it was all worth it," he said.
"We got here and that opening ceremony – that was crazy – probably top five moments of my life". (Reporting by Martin Quin Pollard and Tony Munroe; Additional reporting by Steve Keating; Editing by Ken Ferris)
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/chinas-strange-olympic-hockey-trip-ends
Huling gabi ng burol ni Dong Puno dinaluhan ng mga kaanak, kaibigan
Sa huling gabi ng burol ni Atty. Ricardo “Dong” Puno Jr. dumalaw ang kanyang mga kamag-anak, mga kaibigan, mga kaklase at mga dating nakasama sa trabaho.
Inalala ni Sandro Puno, apo ng dating senior vice president ng ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs, na sa kabila ng pagiging isang mamahayag, abogado, politician, professor, mentor, at “Viewpoint” at “Dong Puno Live” host, hindi ito nakakalimutan ang pagpapahalaga sa mga apo.
"Yes, he was many things and wore many hats, but in our eyes, it always seemed that being a grandfather to his grandchildren was something he prioritized over everything else," ani Sandro.
"He would be present in every birthday party we had and would be there from start to finish, participating in games when we needed him to, and being there in the end as we open gifts. He would be in all our school plays seated somewhere that we could see him from the stage.
"Even in those rare times that he couldn't make it, he would be the first phone call we'd receive right after asking how everything went. Even though he was a busy man, and some of his days are packed with meetings, tapings or events, on some days he would stop by the house for even just 5 minutes, just to say hi."
Nagbahagi rin ang kaibigan at kaklaseng si Senator Richard Gordon ng kanilang pinagsamahan.
"Dong was my first outstanding classmate, that was maybe 71 years ago. Can you imagine that? We were classmates in St. Theresa's College . . . I still have that picture and I was always impressed with Dong. Since then I always looked up to him," kuwento ni Gordon.
"Dong really was so excited always wanting to reach out, always wanting to aim higher, always working hard and proving that it's not rhetoric alone that would make you succeed, it's not your knowledge that would make you succeed it is your humanity that will make you succeed and be respected.
"And that for me is Ricardo V. Puno, my beloved classmate of so many years, a man I will never ever forget and will always be touched of his friendship."
Kabilang sa mga dumalaw ang mag-asawang Julius Babao at Christine Bersola, dating Cainta Mayor Mon Ilagan at iba pang nakasama sa ABS-CBN news.
Sa huling bahagi ng necrological service, may ilang kaklase na sa virtual nagbahagi ng kanilang eulogy. Abala rin ang asawa, anak at mga apo ni Pungo sa pag-aasikaso sa mga bisita.
Bukas nakatakdang i-cremate si Puno pagkatapos ng 10 a.m. mass sa Heritage Park pa rin.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/18/22/buhay-ni-dong-puno-inalala-sa-huling-gabi-ng-burol
PBA: NLEX offsets Glover's 39-pt output, deals Blackwater's 26th straight loss
NLEX vented its ire on a hapless Blackwater side, 117-97, while arresting a 3-game slide in the PBA Governors Cup on Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Road Warriors, led by KJ McDaniels, were more balanced in scoring with 5 of them churning out double-digit outputs to overcome Shawn Glover's 39-point explosion for the Bossing.
McDaniels had 24 points and 11 rebounds, while Jericho Cruz led the fight for the locals with 22 markers and 5 assists.
Kris Rosales backed it up by equaling his career-high 18 points, while Kevin Alas and Don Trollano recorded 15 and 11 points, respectively.
They also took advantage of the Bossing's slow start as they dealt Blackwater its 26th straight defeat, the worst losing streak in the league.
NLEX coach Yeng Guiao said they only wanted to arrest their own slump to prevent the Road Warriors from sinking further.
"Gusto lang naming ma-break 'yung losing streak. We felt na if we lose again it would be a big hole we might not be able to come out from. So importante iyung panalo sa amin," said Guiao.
"We also felt na Blackwater is due for a win at some point. Siyempre ayaw namin na kami pa 'yung ma-biktima nila."
The Bossing's last win was actually against NLEX at the Clark bubble last year.
Glover top-scored everyone and added 15 rebounds in the process. But Mike Ayonayon and Rey Suerte were the only locals who came up with double-digit scores.
"Their import played really good basketball, very efficient," noted Guiao. "Siguro kung mayroon lang naka-suporta sa kanyang iba pang locals, we could have been in trouble."
Box scores:
NLEX 117 – McDaniels 24, Cruz 22, Rosales 18, Alas 15, Trollano 11, Murrell 7, Quinahan 6, Nieto 4, Galanza 3, Soyud 2, Paniamogan 0, Varilla 0, Porter 0, Ighalo 0.
Blackwater 97 – Glover 39, Suerte 11, Ayonayon 11, Amer 8, McCarthy 7, Baloria 5, Escoto 4, Ebona 3, Desiderio 3, Washington 2, Ambolutdo 2, Melton 0, Chauca 0, Paras 0, Casio 0.
Quarters: 34-14; 58-41; 92-76; 117-97.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/pba-nlex-deals-blackwaters-26th-straight-loss
FIBA Asia Cup: Gilas grouped together with New Zealand, Lebanon
Gilas Pilipinas has been clustered with New Zealand and Lebanon in the group stage competition of the FIBA Asia Cup that will happen in July.
Also joining the Philippines in Group D in India.
The draw took place on Friday in Indonesia, which will host the tournament.
Indonesia is clustered with Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan in Group A, while China joins Korea, Chinese Taipei, and Bahrain in Group B.
Group C is made up of Japan, Iran, Kazakhstan, and Syria.
Prior to the Asian Cup, Gilas will get the chance to measure New Zealand and India in the upcoming window of the FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers this month.
The Filipinos are slated to take on India on February 25 and New Zealand on February 27.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/gilas-grouped-with-nz-lebanon-in-fiba-asia-cup
Pacquiao: Pinoys are poor because they elect the corrupt
Presidential candidate Sen. Manny Pacquiao on Friday said Filipinos are poor because people kept electing corrupt government officials.
In the continuation of his consultative campaign sorties in the province of Rizal, Pacquiao told members of the various groups of Tiangge vendors, textile workers and tricycle drivers in Brgy. San Juan and Brgy. Dolores in the town of Taytay that the country’s poverty is rooted on the systemic corruption that has pervaded in all levels of governance.
Pacquiao said the Filipinos should wake up to the reality that the country is poor because they continue to elect leaders even if they are known to be corrupt and dishonest.
"Gising. Gumising tayo para labanan ang katiwalian sa gobyerno. Naririnig natin ang magagandang plataporma pero wala namang nagyayari. Ito'y dahil sa korapsyon," he said.
Pacquiao listened to the stories of the vendors and tricycle drivers who have went through financial problems the past years. Their ordeal worsened when the pandemic struck.
"Ang taong nasa harapan ninyo ay nakaranas ng paghihirap tulad n'yo. Naranasan ko rin ang gutom at ang kawalan ng tirahan kaya prayoridad ko ang pabahay at pagkakaroon ng hanapbuhay para sa mahihirap," the senator said.
During the sortie, Pacquiao met 12-year-old “basahan” vendor Justin Puno. The retired boxer said he saw himself in the boy since he also started working at a very young age.
He lamented that boys like Puno should be in school and still enjoying his life a child.
"Noong kasing edad niya ako, nagbebenta din ako ng sari-saring paninda, tulad ng paminta, bawang, pandesal, kahit sampagita at mga bulaklak. Breadwinner kasi ako. Ang batang katulad ni Justin ay dapat nag-aaral pero dahil sa kahirapan ay napipilitang tumulong sa kanyang mga magulang," he said.
The boxing icon decided to buy all the rags the boy was selling.
From Taytay, Pacquiao held a motorcade to the town of Cainta where he was welcomed by supporters led by Mayor Kit Nieto.
From Cainta, Pacquiao and his team paid courtesy visits to the local government units of Binangonan and Morong before holding another consultative dialogue with various farmer organizations in Tanay.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/18/22/pacquiao-pinoys-are-poor-because-they-elect-the-corrupt
FIBA World Cup: Korea disbands camp after another COVID infection
The Korean national basketball team was forced to disband their camp after a player tested positive for COVID-19 even as it prepares for the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers, to be hosted by the Philippines.
This added to the woes of team coach Jo Sang-hyeon as he struggles to complete his 16-man roster for the qualifiers.
Already out from the team are Ra Gun-ah (Ricardo Ratliffe), Moon Seonggon, Lee Seonghyun, Heo Hoon, Lee Woosuk, Kim Jongkyu who all contracted the virus.
The latest case, whose name was not disclosed, forced the team to break camp.
"It's not easy to make a 12-man entry then training or understanding the opponent's record. I do not know what the situation will be in the future, so I just hope that there will be no more confirmed cases,” said Jo in Jumpball. (LINK ON JUMPBALL https://www.jumpball.co.kr/news/newsview.php?ncode=1065590397964001)
The Korean team is scheduled to fly to the Philippines in four days, but the infections might affect that.
"Currently, three or four players are showing symptoms of corona, so we are considering the case where the minimum number of 10 players to participate in the tournament cannot be filled," said Jo.
Korea is slated to battle Gilas Pilipinas on February 24, New Zealand on February 25, and India on February 27.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/fiba-korea-disbands-camp-after-another-covid-infection
IOC chief rebukes Beijing Olympics organizers
The IOC called an immediate meeting with Chinese organizers to remind them to keep politics out of the Beijing Olympics, president Thomas Bach said Friday, after a local spokeswoman hit back at "lies" about Xinjiang.
"This problem we did not ignore," the International Olympic Committee chief said, a day after a spokeswoman for the local organizing committee, BOCOG, hit back at questions from foreign media about Taiwan and human rights in Xinjiang.
"We were in touch with BOCOG immediately after this press conference and then both organizations, BOCOG and the IOC, have restated the unequivocal commitment to remain politically neutral, as it is required by the Olympic Charter," Bach said.
The United States has led a diplomatic boycott of the Games by some Western nations over rights concerns in China, especially the fate of the mostly Muslim Uyghur minority in China's northwestern region of Xinjiang.
Campaigners say at least one million Uyghurs and other Turkic-speaking Muslims have been incarcerated in camps in Xinjiang, while there are also allegations of mandatory sterilizations of women and forced labor.
"These issues are irrelevant to the Winter Games, but I still feel obliged to make a quick comment again," BOCOG spokeswoman Yan Jiarong said Thursday, after foreign reporters twice asked about Xinjiang.
"The questions are based very much on lies. Some authorities have already disputed such false information with a lot of solid evidence."
China vehemently denies all allegations over its treatment of Uyghurs and maintains the camps are vocational training centers aimed at reducing the appeal of Islamic extremism.
The ethnic Uyghur skier chosen by Beijing to help light the Olympic cauldron at the Games' opening ceremony, meanwhile, rebutted claims of rights abuses Friday, telling a state-run tabloid that Western media outlets were "spreading rumors".
"If there is what the West claimed to be 'genocide' ... I would not have had the chance to appear at the Olympic Games," Global Times quoted cross-country skier Dinigeer Yilamujiang as saying.
"Choosing me as one of the torch bearers displays the truth about the harmony of the big Chinese family," the 20-year-old added.
The United States had criticized the skier's selection as an attempt to "distract" from the mistreatment of the Uyghurs.
The interview with Yilamujiang came as Human Rights Watch released a new statement saying Chinese government censorship had "seriously marred" the Beijing Games.
Yan, the BOCOG spokeswoman, was also bullish on the question of Taiwan. China claims the self-ruled democratic island as part of its territory to be retaken one day, by force if necessary.
At all Olympic Games, athletes from Taiwan compete under the banner of "Chinese Taipei".
"This is something that we really have to take a solemn position on," Yan said, following a question about Taiwanese athletes at the Games and their attendance at Sunday's closing ceremony.
"What I want to say is that there is only one China in the world.
"Taiwan is an indivisible part of China and this is a well-recognized international principle and well recognized in the international community.
"We are always against the idea of politicizing the Olympic Games."
https://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/02/18/22/ioc-chief-rebukes-beijing-olympics-organizers
Pacquiao, Jinkee recall humble beginnings during Taytay visit
Sherrie Ann Torres, ABS-CBN News
PROMDI presidential bet, Sen @MannyPacquiao with wife Jinkee and senatorial bet Lutz Barbo now in San Juan Gym in Taytay, Rizal for the scheduled Community Forum. Audience include farmers and vendors. #Halalan2022 pic.twitter.com/rbyuTk380r
— sherrie ann torres (@sherieanntorres) February 18, 2022
Jinkee, wife of Sen @MannyPacquiao courts Taytay voters' support for her husband's presidential bid. Jinkee vows to help the women sector: Sana bigyan nyo ko ng chance para makatulong sa inyo bilang katuwang ni Manny. #Halalan2022 pic.twitter.com/x2Iclj34rb
— sherrie ann torres (@sherieanntorres) February 18, 2022
Thursday, February 17, 2022
Wednesday, February 16, 2022
JOHNNY’S GREETINGS FOR FEBRUARY 2022 (SECOND HALF)
February 16 - Adolfo Azcuna, Skutsa Clee, Nestor Colonia, Winston Damarillo, Rhys Eugenio, Mark Lapid, Jack Reid, Sharmaine Santiago and Carlos Yulo
February 17 - Honeylet Avancena, Doris Bigornia, Anne Curtis, Jinggoy Estrada, Michelle Gavagan, Kenzo Gutierrez, Josh Lichtenberg, Lou Diamond Phillips and Bea Rose Santiago
February 18 - Rachel Alejandro, Brenan Espartinez, Rose Van Ginkel, January Isaac, Eddie Mesa, Isabel Preysler, Joel Reyes Zebel, Bernadette Sembrano and Elle Villanueva
February 19 - Alvaro Antonio, Rogelio Antonio Jr., Ryan Bacalla, Clara Benin, Alonzo Muhlach, Victor Neri, Bobby Ray Parks Jr., Yuki Sakamoto and Empress Schuck
February 20 - Ken Alfonso, Libran Cabactulan, Jerry Dalipog, McCoy de Leon, Hidilyn Diaz, Nilo Divina, Valentin Naguit, Marestella Sunang and Kevin Vernal
February 21 - Love Anover, Corbin Bleu, Edgar Chatto, Jhaycob de Los Reyes, Pedro Dean, Lilia Pineda, Justin Roiland, Caleb Santos and Jon Timmons
February 22 - Arron Cadawas, Nathaniel Cruz, Denice Dinsay, Francoise Fainsan, Dante Gierran, Gladys Guevarra, Ysel Anne Lopez, Peter Musngi, Dave Marcelo, Lea Salonga and Yul Servo
February 23 - Dave Bornea, Chel Diokno, Lexi Gonzales, Frankie Lim, Ernie Lopez, Bern Josep Persia, Keanna Reeves, Mel Sta. Maria, Abraham Tolentino and Jillian Ward
February 24 - Paolo Abrera, Gener Bautista, Manalo Favis, Wilma Galvante, Risa Hontiveros, Zigfreid Ignacio, Mariel Pamintuan, Gerald Pesigan and Aicelle Santos
February 25 - Sophia Baluyut, Nina Corpuz, Ruby Ibarra, Maricel Laxa, Jai Reyes, Renzmark Ricafrente, Maricel Soriano, Lala Talino-Mendoza and Thia Thomalla
February 26 - Macoy Averilla, Mikee Cojuangco, Alex Crisano, Assunta de Rossi, Alexa Ilacad, Angelique Lazo, Toni Rivero, Dayara Shane and Nestor Tan
February 27 - Allen Cecilio, Chelsea Clinton, Will Devaughn, Josh Groban, Lance Lucido, AJ Mandani, Raymart Otic, Iain Ramsay and Megan Young
February 28 - Shamaine Buencamino, Ynigo Delen, Jaime Fabregas, Ylona Garcia, Nef Medina, Andrei Odion, Cynthia Patag, Puey Quinones and Roman Romulo
Tuesday, February 15, 2022
Monday, February 14, 2022
Sunday, February 13, 2022
Saturday, February 12, 2022
Friday, February 11, 2022
Thursday, February 10, 2022
Wednesday, February 9, 2022
BARMM starts consultations on draft local governance code
By Edwin Fernandez
COTABATO CITY – The legislative body of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has started holding consultations with local officials and other stakeholders on the draft Bangsamoro Local Governance Code (BLGC).
The consultations, a first of a series, initiated by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) on Wednesday were simultaneously held here and in Marawi City.
BTA Member of Parliament (MP) Jose Lorena led the public consultations with local officials in Lanao del Sur, while MPs Rasol Y. Mitmug, Jr. and Laisa Masuhud Alamia presided over the discussions here.
The Cotabato City round-table discussion was facilitated by the Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG) with Australian Aid and Notre Dame University Graduate School at Pagana Restaurant in this city.
Up for discussion was BTA Bill No. 58 (An Act Providing for the Bangsamoro Local Government Code).
In attendance, aside from local officials, were representatives from the religious sector, Indigenous Peoples, non-Moro settlers, academe, and the business sector.
In Marawi City, the BTA held the consultation at the Lanao del Sur provincial capitol where comments, position papers, and legislative inputs were gathered.
"The BLGC will give a clear direction between local government units and the Bangsamoro government," Lorena said.
The code aims to strengthen the supervisory power of the Bangsamoro government through the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG).
Lorena added that such would prevent the MILG and the Department of the Interior and Local Government from having double supervision.
Instead of the word “government,” the draft Bangsamoro code uses the term “governance” to emphasize citizen participation.
"Further, governance means inclusivity rather than exclusivity, association rather than isolation, and accommodation rather than marginalization," Lorena said.
He pointed out that similar consultations will also be held in the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi, as well as in 63 villages in North Cotabato that are now part of BARMM.
BTA Speaker Pangalian Balindong said the BTA has accomplished most of its tasks, including the passage of three priority codes mandated by the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) over the past two years.
During the transition period, the BTA is mandated under the BOL to enact priority legislative measures.
The priority legislation includes the administrative code, revenue code, electoral code, local government code, education code, civil service code, and Indigenous Peoples' code.
The BTA has so far enacted the region’s administrative, civil service, and education codes.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167423
Tuesday, February 8, 2022
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Sunday, February 6, 2022
Saturday, February 5, 2022
Friday, February 4, 2022
Thursday, February 3, 2022
JOHNNY’S GREETINGS FOR FEBRUARY 2022 (FIRST HALF)
February 1 - Rhed Bustamante, Jahren Estorque, Anthony Falcon, Jay-R, Eric Nicholas, Anthony Rosaldo, Fanny Serrano, Kid Yambao, Cathy Yang, Cong. Lorna Silverio and Miko Zarsadias
February 2 - J.C. Bonnin, Gilbert Garcera, Barry Gutierrez, Shelly Hipolito, Athena Imperial, Ataska Mercado, Ana Roces, Kristine Sablan and Lloyd Samartino
February 3 - Kim Domingo, Robert Emperdad, Ed Garcia, Jojit Lorenzo, Alisa Reyes, Rhap Salazar, James Teng, Maura Tierney and Jose Antonio Vargas
February 4 - Calvin Abueva, Francis Alcantara, Wincy Aquino Ong, Louise Bernardo, Ethan David, Curt Dizon, Mirriam Manalo, Klinton Start and Joel Villarino
February 5 - Gee Canlas, Juan Karlos Labajo, Martin Nievera, Fifth Pagotan, Fourth Pagotan, Zyrene Parsad, Ymiah Quilates, Cristina Reyes and Sammie Rimando, Freddie Aguilar & Lolita Carbon, Jenny Miller, Jocelyn Pua-Tulfo
February 6 - Joel Banal, Aljo Bendijo, Tutti Caringal, Eddie Gutierrez, Polo Laurel, Josefina Pangilinan, Katya Santos, Antonio Tuviera and Antonio Tito Yllana
February 7 - Luis Alandy, Liz Alindogan, Angel Aquino, Cheryl Cosim, JM Ibanez, Chito Miranda, Ralph Noriega, JP Soriano, Ian Veneracion and Kylie Verzosa
February 8 - Carlene Aguilar, Noynoy Aquino, Ronnie Henares, Amarah Khatibi, Inna Palacios, Champ Lui Pio, Raine Salamante, Jose Maria Sison and Christian Vasquez
February 9 - Alejandro Aclan, Jo Berry, Hermogones Esperon, Cyrene Naval, Gabe Norwood, Susan Ople, Dennis Padilla, Jian Repolles and JR Valentin
February 10 - Alec Calderon, Marcelo Felipe, Marides Fernando, Rocky Fuentes, Kevin Ingreso, Bernize Lagunilla, Donny Pangilinan, Sherilyn Reyes and Emma Roberts
February 11 - Jackie Lou Blanco, Kaye Cal, Lourd de Veyra, Marlann Flores, Yuan Francisco, Johnny Manahan, Jao Mapa, Lovi Poe, Law Tan and Alwyn Uytingco
February 12 - Jelai Andres, Mac Belo, Shey Bustamante, Esang de Torres, Simon Enciso, Jose Manalo, Amber Nabus, Tommy Penaflor and Georgina Wilson
February 13 - Johnriel Casimiro, Francisco Duque III, Andre Lagdameo, Nikko Natividad, Samuel Pagdilao, Tina Panganiban-Perez, Jelay Pilones, Shehyee and Prince Stefan
February 14 - Kris Aquino, Aubrey Caraan, Donna Cruz, Zephanie Dimaranan, Heart Evangelista, Roxanne Guinoo, JB Paguio, John Prats and Dominic Zapata
February 15 - Gelo Acosta, Marlene Alcaide, Gina de Venecia, Dindo Flora, Angeli Nicole Sanoy, Kit Thompson, AJ Urquia, Shyr Valdez and James Yap
Wednesday, February 2, 2022
Tuesday, February 1, 2022
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