Poi bear

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte on Earth Day Thursday urged the public to turn the Philippines into a “climate-resilient” and “climate-smart” nation. He said in a video message that Earth day “reminds us of our inherent responsibility to take care of our planet.” He also reminded the public that a healthy nation depends on a healthy natural environment. “This Earth Day, let us work with renewed vigor to engage our people, our local communities and industries, and all other stakeholders in our efforts to achieve a climate-resilient and climate-smart Philippines,” he said. FILE PHOTO: President Rodrigo Duterte reminds Filipinos “to take good care of our planet.” REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez “As we recover from the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our lives and economy, let us always bear in mind that a healthy nation is anchored on a healthy and sound natural environment,” the President added. The first Earth Day took place on April 22, 1970, to mark ... » Learn More about Duterte on Earth Day 2021: Make PH climate-resistance, climate-smart

All eyes are now on a national, indeed multinational, operation to locate the KRI Nanggala-402 submarine, which went missing with 53 crew on board north of Bali during a torpedo drill on Wednesday afternoon. Our prayers go to not only the crew, but also to those involved in the search and rescue effort as they race against time. Navy chief of staff Adm. Yudo Margono said on Thursday the oxygen supply in the event of a blackout, as might be the case of KRI Nanggala, would last 72 hours. With the clock ticking, every second will count in this life-saving operation. Singapore, Malaysia and Australia have responded to Indonesia’s call for help while other nations, including the United States, Germany, France, Turkey, India and Russia have offered assistance. A slight hope arose on Thursday as Navy ship KRI Pulau Rimau detected a high magnetic object at about 100 meters below the sea surface, according to Yudo. Previously oil slicks were spotted in several different locations. As we ... » Learn More about Save our sailors

Covid-19 has not abated and cities the world over are still doing their best to tame the virus. In addition to health and medical concerns, countries have to deal with the economic consequences brought about by the pandemic. Without a doubt, the pandemic has brought to light lessons that governments can learn from towards developing better, safer and more sustainable urban areas. The UN-Habitat has highlighted the need to address the underlying issues of inequality and exclusion in cities in order to effectively manage and contain Covid-19. It says that with the right policies, economic and social resources being invested to curb the pandemic can help build greener, more inclusive urban areas in the long run. Since last year, Malaysia has launched a few social and economic stimulus packages to weather the storm. “The profound challenge with any Covid-19 targeted packages and programmes remains the availability of existing data and recognition of vulnerable groups, as well as ... » Learn More about How to rebuild better, safer and more sustainable cities post-Covid-19

Considering their bitter rivalry in the ring, it is difficult to fathom Mexican Juan Manuel “Dinamita” Marquez imitating a Manny Pacquiao maneuver. But Marquez is doing just that, stressing he is tossing his hat into the political arena after being inspired by rival Pacquiao who is now a senator possibly eyeing the Philippine presidency in the national elections next year. A four-division (featherweight, junior lightweight, lightweight and welterweight) world boxing champion, Marquez retired in 2014 with a record of 56-7, 1 draw and 40 knockouts. Marquez figured in four memorable fights with Pacquiao, winning the last one in December 2012 with an emphatic sixth round stoppage. While already retired, the 47-year-old Marquez is banking on his legendary boxing resume to secure a congressional post in the legislative elections scheduled in June. If elected, Marquez has vowed to “knockout corruption.” Marquez is looking to represent the Gustavo Madero district which has become the ... » Learn More about Marquez does a Pacquiao