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Movie review: ‘Jurassic world rebirth’ revives the franchise with thrills, heart, and stunning dinosaurs

“Jurassic World Rebirth” brings the long-running dino saga back to life in spectacular fashion, delivering the most satisfying installment the franchise has seen in years.

Helmed by Godzilla director Gareth Edwards and written by David Koepp, who penned the original Jurassic Park, the film strikes a balance between nostalgia and fresh storytelling. Set five years after Jurassic World Dominion, the story centers on a high-stakes heist for dinosaur DNA, unfolding across the original island now overtaken by nature, and towering Cretaceous creatures.

Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali headline as extraction specialists tasked with obtaining DNA from three live giants: the Quetzalcoatlus, Mosasaurus, and Titanosaurus. The goal? A pharmaceutical breakthrough. The mission? Insanely dangerous — because the dinosaurs have to be alive during extraction.

The film cleverly divides into three suspense-filled chapters, each focused on a different dinosaur encounter. Along the way, a stranded family, a shady villain (Rupert Friend), and a nerdy paleontologist (Jonathan Bailey) add humanity and humor to the perilous adventure.

Edwards leans into Spielberg-style suspense, blending it with stunning visuals, from twilight boat shots to cliffside descents. A standout moment sees two Titanosaurs entwine their necks to the emotional swell of John Williams’ iconic theme, reminding us why this series once defined blockbuster cinema.

There are also clever callbacks to other film classics, Indiana Jones, Jaws, E.T., and even a convenience store dino attack echoing the original kitchen scene. Plus, a bonus final act teases mutant dinosaur hybrids lurking in the shadows, offering an unexpected horror twist.

With breathtaking landscapes filmed in Thailand and a strong mix of action, emotion, and monster-movie fun, Jurassic World Rebirth succeeds in bringing real awe back to the franchise. Even the candy, a recurring motif from Snickers to Altoids, adds quirky charm.

Rated PG-13 for intense action, violence, and suggestive content, the film runs 133 minutes and earns 3.5 out of 4 stars. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, this installment proves there’s still real bite in the Jurassic brand.

Senegal’s luxury sheep parade showcases prestige and high prices

DAKAR, Senegal. In one of the most unique spectacles of prestige in West Africa, Senegal’s annual beauty pageant for sheep took center stage in the capital, Dakar, drawing crowds and fireworks, not for models, but for the prized Ladoum sheep, a breed known for its grandeur and astonishing market value.

The event, featuring more than a dozen of these so-called “Ferraris of sheep,” saw breeders proudly leading their animals onto an elevated stage, where they were judged on beauty, size, horns, height, and body texture. The sheep, categorized into adult male, adult female, and young/promising, were greeted with music, cheers, and traditional Assiko rhythms, while judges tallied scores.

This year’s top prize for Best Adult Male went to Prive, a 1-year and 7-month-old Ladoum estimated to be worth more than $100,000. “It feels good to be here. I cherish him so much,” said breeder Isaiah Cisse, beaming as he massaged his award-winning sheep.

The Ladoum, a crossbred sheep exclusive to Senegal, is not typically used for food or as a sacrificial offering. Instead, it is considered a status symbol, with some older specimens fetching as much as $70,000 compared to just $250 for regular sheep. Buyers from across the globe come to Senegal, where livestock remains a vital source of livelihood for the country’s 18 million people.

Weighing up to 400 pounds and standing about four feet tall, the Ladoum is prized for its impressive horns and sleek, polished coat. “You can’t see a sheep like this in Africa or even in the world,” said Judge Elhadji Ndiaye. “Ladoum is special.”

The event also drew young aspiring breeders, including 12-year-old Ibrahim Diagne, who dreams of competing one day. “My parents like this and have always done it, so I like it too,” he said.

The passion for sheep rearing runs deep in Senegalese culture, passed down through generations. This year’s Best Junior Male sheep, Alou, continued a winning family legacy, much to the pride of breeder Maniane Ndaw. “It shows that the lineage is a good one,” he said.

From seasoned champions to young hopefuls, Senegal’s sheep beauty contest celebrates not just luxury and livestock, but heritage and honor.

57% ng mga Pilipino, pabor na muling sumali ang bansa sa ICC — OCTA

MAYNILA. Lumabas sa pinakahuling survey ng OCTA Research na 57 porsyento ng mga Pilipino ang pabor na muling sumapi ang Pilipinas sa International Criminal Court (ICC), habang 37 porsyento naman ang tutol at 6 porsyento ang walang pasya.

Batay sa Tugon ng Masa nationwide survey na isinagawa mula Abril 20 hanggang 24, malakas ang suporta sa muling pakikiisa sa ICC sa Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, at Visayas, kung saan 60 porsyento ng mga respondent ang nagsabing pabor sila sa hakbang.

Sa Mindanao, lumabas na 30 porsyento lang ang sang-ayon sa muling pagsali ng bansa sa ICC, habang 66 porsyento naman ang tumutol.

Ayon sa datos, karamihan sa mga sumusuporta sa pagbabalik-ICC ay mula sa age group na 18 hanggang 24-anyos, samantalang ang mga tutol ay kadalasang nasa edad 35 hanggang 54.

Lumahok sa naturang survey ang 1,200 respondents na mga lalaki at babae na may edad 18 pataas. Isinagawa ito sa pamamagitan ng face-to-face interviews.

Gov. Sol Aragones bans rude behavior in Laguna hospitals and government offices

STA. CRUZ, Laguna. In her first official directive as governor, Sol Aragones has signed an executive order banning rude behavior in all government hospitals, Rural Health Units (RHUs), health centers, and offices across Laguna province.

The order, which requires all public servants to treat clients with courtesy and wear a smile at all times, aims to foster a culture of respect and kindness in public service. Violators of the policy will face disciplinary action, in line with existing government protocols.

“This is about promoting kindness, respect, and proper service to the public,” Governor Aragones said.

To raise awareness, the slogan “Bawal ang Mataray sa mga Ospital ng Laguna” (“Rudeness is Prohibited in Laguna Hospitals”) will be prominently displayed in posters across all public health facilities.

Vice Governor JM Carrait expressed full support for the initiative, saying, “We are the backbone behind the legislation that Governor Sol will champion, through a united and solid partnership.” The province’s board members have also pledged their support, backing Aragones’ vision of “Serbisyong May Solusyon” — a governance model focused on practical, people-centered solutions.

Department of Health Secretary Ted Herbosa accompanied Governor Aragones on a tour of several hospitals in the province to assess current challenges, particularly the shortage of nurses and doctors. The governor assured the public that immediate solutions are being pursued.

Governor Aragones also outlined plans to boost Laguna’s tourism through “Citizen Tourism,” a campaign encouraging locals to showcase their towns on social media to attract visitors and highlight the province’s cultural heritage.

She also reaffirmed her support for the “Grado ang Palakol” program, which will provide financial aid to academically struggling students. A dedicated team is being assembled to implement the initiative effectively.

“In line with my promise, I will continue holding office in every hospital across Laguna to ensure I stay close to the people’s concerns,” Aragones said. “We need actionable solutions for our lack of nurses and doctors — and we will find them.”

74 killed in Gaza as Israeli strikes hit cafe and aid seekers

CAIRO. At least 74 Palestinians were killed across Gaza on Monday after a series of Israeli airstrikes and gunfire incidents, including a devastating attack on a crowded seaside cafe and multiple shootings of civilians seeking food aid, according to health officials and eyewitnesses.

One airstrike hit the Al-Baqa Cafe in Gaza City, killing at least 30 people and injuring dozens more. The cafe, which had remained open during the ongoing conflict, was frequented by residents looking for internet access and a place to charge their phones.

“Without warning, all of a sudden, a warplane hit the place, shaking it like an earthquake,” said Ali Abu Ateila, who was inside the cafe during the strike.

Fares Awad, head of the Health Ministry’s emergency and ambulance service in northern Gaza, confirmed the number of casualties and said many of the wounded were in critical condition.

Elsewhere in Gaza City, two airstrikes on a street killed 15 people, while a separate strike on a building near the town of Zawaida left six dead, according to reports from Shifa and Al-Aqsa hospitals.

In southern Gaza, 11 people were shot and killed by Israeli forces as they returned from an aid distribution site linked to the Israeli and U.S.-supported Gaza Humanitarian Fund (GHF). Witnesses said the shootings occurred about three kilometers from the distribution point in Khan Younis, along the only accessible return route. Nasser Hospital received the victims’ bodies.

The Health Ministry’s emergency services also reported that 10 people were killed in a separate incident at a United Nations aid warehouse in northern Gaza.

“We were targeted by (the Israeli) artillery,” said Monzer Hisham Ismail, who had been returning from the GHF hub.

Yousef Mahmoud Mokheimar, who was walking with others in the area, said Israeli forces in tanks fired warning shots before opening fire directly at the group. He was shot in the leg while another man was hit trying to help him. Mokheimar said he saw six people, including three children, being detained. “We don’t know whether they are still alive,” he added.

The Israeli military said it is reviewing reports of the incidents. It has previously been stated that it fires warning shots at individuals who appear suspicious or get too close to troops, including during aid distribution.

Israel has promoted the GHF as a replacement for the United Nations-led aid distribution network, accusing Hamas of diverting aid, a claim the U.N. denies.

In northern Gaza, Israel has stepped up bombardments across Gaza City and the Jabaliya refugee camp, issuing new evacuation orders. Residents described the overnight strikes as a “scorched earth” campaign targeting civilian infrastructure.

“They destroy whatever is left standing… the sound of bombing hasn’t stopped,” said Mohamed Mahdy, who fled his damaged home Monday morning.

According to Awad, large portions of Gaza City and Jabaliya are now inaccessible, and emergency teams are unable to reach victims trapped under rubble.

The Israeli military stated it had notified civilians of its operations targeting Hamas command centers and said new fencing, signage, and routes had been established to improve aid access.

Since the war began in October 2023, over 56,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which says more than half were women and children. The war was sparked by a Hamas-led attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages, about 50 of whom are believed to remain in captivity, many presumed dead.

Gapangada unveils vision for San Pablo in inauguration ceremony

SAN PABLO CITY. Mayor-elect Najie Gapangada laid out his vision for a better San Pablo City during his inauguration ceremony held on Monday morning, June 30, at the San Pablo Central School Gymnasium. His term as mayor officially begins tomorrow, on July 1.

In his inaugural address, Gapangada highlighted his administration’s core agenda: good governance, a “kotong-free” (extortion-free) city, and effective public service. He said they are branding it as “KFC, ” short for Kotong-Free City, a slogan that underscores his commitment to eliminating corruption in local government

“To deliver real change, we must ensure that our department heads are experts and trustworthy leaders,” Gapangada said in Filipino.

He formally introduced the new set of department heads, including Raul Polinag (Chief of Staff), Jason Manilay (Deputy Chief of Staff), Pamboy Lopez (City Administrator), Ann Mercado Alcantara (Tourism Officer), Dr. Rene Bagamasbad (City Health Officer), Engr. Raila Nunag (City Solid Waste Management Officer), Romy Manalo (DLSP Board of Trustees), Pepito Bonilla (Executive Assistant for Agriculture), Arvin Carandang and Tagi Felismino (CDRRMO), GT Exconde (Market Superintendent), Totoy See (Legislative Liaison), Larry Dizon and Fely Acero (DLSP Board Members), Senen Dizon (Waste Water), Mariño Garcia (Traffic Enforcer), Nicetas Gavino Jr. (General Services Officer), Ferdinand Alcos (Digitalization), Architect Richmond Concordia (City Planning), Darwin Averion (City Architect), Engr. Noel Tabo (City Engineer), Fiscal Manny Fule (City Legal), Dr. Renato Huelgas (City Veterinarian), Rolly Inciong (City Information Officer), Ernie Empemano (Flagship Program Management), and Mark Alimagno (Night Market Operations).

Gapangada, a three-term board member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Laguna representing the 3rd District, is also a former manager of Planters Bank, a businessman, and a strong advocate for agriculture and rural development.

Present at the event were his wife, Evita Brion Gapangada, their children Erico and Nina, his siblings, grandchildren, and close supporters. Former Senator Gringo Honasan also attended the event, expressing his support for Gapangada’s leadership.

City government employees, representatives from civic organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in San Pablo were likewise in attendance, showing solidarity with the incoming administration.

Gapangada, a three-term board member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Laguna representing the 3rd District, is also a former manager of Planters Bank, a businessman, and a strong advocate for agriculture and rural development.
City government employees, representatives from civic organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in San Pablo were likewise in attendance, showing solidarity with the incoming administration.

This article has been edited for clarity and accuracy. Names of department heads were added to provide more complete information. All edits were made without altering the original context or intent of the content. Any updates or corrections will be made in accordance with our editorial standards.
Edited on June 30, 2025, at 5:17 PM (PHT).

With reports from Ma. Theriza Cruz

Gunman starts Idaho wildfire, kills two firefighters in ambush

BOISE, Idaho. A gunman who deliberately ignited a wildfire on Canfield Mountain in northern Idaho on Sunday later opened fire on first responders, killing two firefighters and injuring another in what authorities are calling a planned ambush.

Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris confirmed the details during a press conference Sunday night, stating, “We do believe that the suspect started the fire, and we do believe that it was an ambush and it was intentional. These firefighters did not have a chance.”

The gunman’s body was discovered hours later in a wooded area near the fire line, with a firearm found nearby. Authorities used cellphone data to track his location. His identity and the type of weapon used have not been released. Officials believe he acted alone.

Emergency responders were initially called to the fire around 1:30 p.m., and reports of gunfire followed roughly 30 minutes later. Radio dispatches captured the chaos, with first responders heard urgently calling for backup: “Everybody’s shot up here … send law enforcement now.”

Three victims were taken to Kootenai Health, where two were declared dead on arrival. The third victim, a firefighter, underwent surgery and remains in stable condition but is “fighting for his life,” Norris said.

“This is a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters,” Idaho Governor Brad Little said in a post on X (formerly Twitter), calling on residents to pray for the victims and their families.

The firefight unfolded in a densely wooded recreational area north of Coeur d’Alene, a city of 55,000 near the Washington border. Canfield Mountain, popular among hikers and bikers, is covered with trees and trails leading into the national forest land. The terrain made it difficult for first responders to locate the shooter, who is believed to have used a high-powered rifle from a concealed position.

The FBI joined local authorities at the scene, sending technical and tactical teams to assist in the investigation.

Just before the evening press briefing, a solemn procession escorted the bodies of the fallen firefighters to Spokane, Washington. Fire and law enforcement personnel lined the route in tribute.

The Kootenai County Emergency Management Office had issued a shelter-in-place order earlier in the day, which was lifted Sunday night. However, residents near Canfield Mountain Trailhead and Nettleton Gulch Road were urged to remain cautious as the wildfire continued to burn.

Bruce Deming, a local resident whose property borders the trail system, said he initially noticed smoke but was puzzled by the lack of aerial firefighting support. “When a friend texted me about the shooting, I realized why no helicopters were coming — because they’re concerned about being shot at,” he said.

The Idaho House Republican Leadership released a statement condemning the attack: “We are horrified by the murder of two firefighters in Coeur d’Alene, and shocked by such a vicious attack on our first responders. We are praying for them, the injured, their families, and their colleagues.”

Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack as the community mourns the loss of its fallen heroes.

Pamilya ng missing sabungeros, umapela ng diving operations sa Taal Lake

MAYNILA. Nanawagan ang mga kaanak ng tinaguriang “missing sabungeros” sa pamahalaan na agad nang simulan ang diving operations sa Taal Lake upang hanapin ang umano’y mga bangkay ng kanilang mga nawawalang mahal sa buhay.

Ang panawagan ay kasunod ng paglutang ng isang testigo na nagsabing inilibing sa ilalim ng lawa ang mga bangkay ng ilang sabungerong dinukot noong Disyembre 2021.

Sa isang panayam, sinabi ni Mang Aurelio, tiyuhin ng dalawa sa pinakabatang nawawalang sabungero, na dapat nang sisirin ang lawa kung totoo ang pahayag ng testigo.

“Hindi na dapat maghintay pa. Kung totoo ang sinasabi ng testigo, kailangang simulan na agad ang pagsisid sa Taal Lake,” ani Mang Aurelio.

Hinimok din niya ang Department of Justice (DOJ) na tiyaking mababantayan ang lugar upang hindi ito mapakialaman, lalo pa’t posibleng may mga “malalaking tao” na sangkot sa krimen.

Nagpahayag siya ng pangamba na maaaring may ginagawa nang hakbang ang mga sangkot upang maitago ang katotohanan. Nanawagan din siya sa mga testigo na huwag matakot at ibunyag ang kanilang nalalaman kaugnay sa kaso.

Kasabay nito, umapela rin si Mang Aurelio sa babaeng celebrity na isinasangkot sa insidente na makipagtulungan sa mga awtoridad para sa ikalulutas ng kaso at pagbibigay ng hustisya sa mga biktima.

Nagpahayag din siya ng tiwala kay PGen. Nicolas Torre III at umaasang ang bagong PNP chief ang makapagbibigay-linaw sa matagal nang kaso.

Ayon kay Mang Aurelio, ang kanyang mga pamangkin na edad 14 at 17 ay huling nakita sa isang sabungan sa Sta. Cruz, Laguna noong Disyembre 2021 at mula noon ay hindi na muling nakita.

Israel recovers remains of three more hostages from Gaza

TEL AVIV, Israel. The Israeli military announced on Sunday that it has recovered the remains of three hostages from the Gaza Strip, while a separate airstrike in central Gaza killed at least four Palestinians and wounded 22 others, according to a local hospital.

The hostages were identified as Yonatan Samerano, 21, Ofra Keidar, 70, and Shay Levinson, 19. All three were killed during Hamas’ October 7, 2023, cross-border attack that sparked the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group. According to Israeli authorities, Hamas continues to hold about 50 hostages, though less than half are believed to be alive.

The military did not disclose details of the recovery operation or whether it was related to the airstrike that occurred in the densely populated Nuseirat refugee camp, where Al-Awda Hospital reported the casualties.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the recovery of the bodies and reiterated his government’s commitment to bringing all hostages home. “The campaign to return the hostages continues consistently and is happening alongside the campaign against Iran,” he said in a statement.

Kobi Samerano, father of Yonatan, shared in a Facebook post that his son’s remains were returned on what would have been Yonatan’s 23rd birthday.

The October 7 attack by Hamas-led militants left around 1,200 people dead in Israel, mostly civilians, and resulted in the abduction of 251 people. Since then, over half of the hostages have been freed through ceasefire agreements or other deals. Eight have been rescued alive, while dozens of bodies have been recovered.

Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed more than 55,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which reports that women and children account for over half of the casualties. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

Palestinian health officials and witnesses have accused Israeli forces of firing on crowds waiting for humanitarian aid, including those in Sunday’s airstrike. The Israeli military has claimed it only fires warning shots at people who approach suspiciously.

Meanwhile, World Central Kitchen, the aid group founded by chef José Andrés, has resumed distributing hot meals in Gaza for the first time in six weeks. The organization had previously halted operations due to Israel’s blockade, which was partially eased last month amid growing concerns over famine.

The broader conflict has expanded beyond Gaza in recent weeks. Israel launched a surprise strike on Iran last week, which was reportedly triggered by the fallout from the war. The United States responded by targeting three Iranian nuclear sites, marking its most direct involvement in the conflict so far.

The Hostages Families Forum, which represents the relatives of those still held in Gaza, renewed its call for a deal to secure the release of the remaining captives. “Particularly against the backdrop of current military developments and the significant achievements in Iran, we want to emphasize that bringing back the remaining 50 hostages is the key to achieving any sort of victory,” the group said in a statement.

Hamas has demanded a lasting ceasefire, the release of Palestinian prisoners, and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for the hostages. Prime Minister Netanyahu has rejected those terms, vowing to continue the war until all hostages are freed and Hamas is defeated, disarmed, or exiled. He has also stated that Israel will maintain long-term control over Gaza and facilitate what he described as the voluntary emigration of much of its population, a plan widely condemned as forced expulsion.

Mediation efforts by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt have so far failed to produce a new ceasefire or hostage deal, as Israel continues to expand its military operations in the territory.

Dalai Lama to discuss succession plan ahead of 90th birthday as China watches closely

DHARAMSHALA, India. The Dalai Lama is expected to address the issue of his succession during a three-day Buddhist gathering this week, just days before his 90th birthday, as Beijing closely monitors developments surrounding the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader.

The conference, which begins this week in Dharamshala and is being held for the first time since 2019, brings together more than 100 Tibetan Buddhist leaders. It is seen as a significant moment for the Tibetan community, with the Dalai Lama anticipated to share details about how and where his successor might be found.

Beijing, which considers the Dalai Lama a separatist, insists it has the authority to choose his successor. However, the Dalai Lama has repeatedly stated that his reincarnation will not be born in China and urged his followers to reject any figure appointed by the Chinese government.

Tibetan Buddhists believe that enlightened monks are reborn to continue their spiritual mission. The current 14th Dalai Lama was recognized as the reincarnation of his predecessor at the age of two and has since become a global symbol of Tibetan identity and resistance to Chinese control.

“The rest of my life I will dedicate for the benefit of others, as much as possible, as extensive as possible,” the Dalai Lama told followers on Monday during a long-life prayer offering.

He added, “There will be some kind of a framework within which we can talk about the continuation of the institution of the Dalai Lamas,” though he did not elaborate further.

The Dalai Lama, who has lived in exile in India since fleeing Tibet in 1959 following a failed uprising against Chinese rule, has previously said that his reincarnation could take place in India.

Dolma Tsering Teykhang, deputy speaker of the Tibetan parliament-in-exile, emphasized the importance of hearing from the Dalai Lama himself. “While China tries to vilify him at every chance, it is also trying to create rules on how to control the reincarnation process,” she said. “China is trying to grab this institution for its political purpose.”

Tibet’s chief state oracle, Thupten Ngodup, noted that while discussions on reincarnation typically do not occur while a spiritual leader is still alive, the current situation is different because of interference from the Chinese government.

China, in a statement last March, dismissed the Dalai Lama as a political exile who “has no right to represent the Tibetan people.” The Chinese government has said it is willing to talk with him if he acknowledges Tibet and Taiwan as inalienable parts of China — a condition rejected by the Tibetan government-in-exile.

The Dalai Lama will also attend a prayer ceremony led by the Tibetan government-in-exile on July 5 and speak during his birthday celebration on July 6. According to the organizers, Indian Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and other Indian officials are expected to attend. Actor Richard Gere, a longtime supporter of Tibetan causes, will also be present.

Tibetans have continued to offer prayers for the Dalai Lama’s health, especially after his knee surgery in the United States last year. In an interview with Reuters in December, the Dalai Lama said he could live to be 110. His predecessor passed away unexpectedly at the age of 58.

While the Dalai Lama’s Gaden Phodrang Foundation will lead the search for his reincarnation after his death, political responsibilities have already been passed on. In 2011, the Dalai Lama formally relinquished his political role to a democratically elected leadership, ending a 368-year-old tradition of being both the spiritual and temporal head of Tibetans.

“Since he has come in the form of a human, we have to agree that there will be a moment when he is not with us,” said Teykhang. “His Holiness has really prepared us for that day. He made us act as if he’s not there.”