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Tesla unveils Cybercab: Autonomous driving tech expected to expand by 2025

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Tesla unveils Cybercab: Autonomous driving tech expected to expand by 2025

LOS ANGELES, CA. Tesla CEO Elon Musk unveiled the company’s latest innovation, the “Cybercab,” during a presentation at the Warner Bros. studio lot in Hollywood. The autonomous robotaxi, which lacks traditional steering wheels and pedals, marks Tesla’s bold step toward a fully driverless future. However, enthusiasts will have to wait until at least 2026 to see these vehicles on the road.

During the event, Musk highlighted the advancements in Tesla’s autonomous driving technology, known as “Full Self-Driving” (FSD), which has been available for purchase since 2015. The technology allows for limited autonomous driving, but the move toward unsupervised operation—where passengers can “fall asleep and wake up at [their] destination,” as Musk described—remains under scrutiny.

“We’ll move from supervised Full Self-Driving to unsupervised Full Self-Driving, where you can fall asleep and wake up at your destination. It’s going to be a glorious future,” Musk assured the crowd.

Tesla estimates that the Cybercab will be priced under $30,000, with availability projected for 2026, although Musk humorously added, “before 2027.” The company also plans to roll out the FSD technology for its popular Model 3 and Model Y vehicles in California and Texas by 2025.

Skepticism and Industry Competition

Despite Musk’s optimistic projections, skepticism surrounding Tesla’s ability to deliver fully autonomous vehicles persists. Seth Goldstein, equity strategist at Morningstar Research, commented on the importance of proving FSD’s reliability: “If they’re going to eventually get to robotaxis, they first need to have success with the unsupervised FSD at the current lineup. Tonight’s event showed that they’re ready to take that step forward.”

However, some industry experts remain unconvinced. Bryant Walker Smith, a professor at the University of South Carolina who specializes in automated vehicles, remarked, “Tesla yet again claimed it is a year or two away from actual automated driving — just as the company has been claiming for a decade. Now there are real AVs [autonomous vehicles] carrying real people on real roads, but none of those vehicles are Teslas. Tonight did not change this reality; it only made the irony more glaring.”

Shares of Tesla Inc. dropped 9% following the unveiling, with some investors concerned about the company’s slow progress in comparison to rivals. Alphabet Inc.’s Waymo and General Motors’ Cruise are already operating autonomous vehicles in several locations, including Phoenix and San Francisco. Meanwhile, Aurora Innovation plans to deploy fully autonomous semi-trucks in Texas by the end of this year, with Gatik following suit by 2025.

Tesla’s Challenges and Expanding AI Focus

Tesla’s journey toward achieving autonomous driving has not been without setbacks. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) forced the company to recall its Full Self-Driving software in February after concerns were raised about its compliance with traffic laws. Additionally, the Justice Department is seeking information from Tesla regarding the safety of its Autopilot and FSD systems.

One tragic incident occurred last April in Snohomish County, Washington, when a Tesla operating in FSD mode hit and killed a motorcyclist. The Tesla driver admitted to using the system while looking at their phone. NHTSA is currently investigating the crash.

Despite these challenges, Musk remains focused on positioning Tesla as a leader in AI and robotics. At the event, Tesla also introduced its Optimus humanoid robots, which performed a brief demonstration for attendees. Musk claimed these robots, which are expected to cost between $28,000 and $30,000, could perform tasks like babysitting, mowing lawns, and grocery shopping.

“Whatever you can think of, it will do,” Musk said.

The unveiling of the Cybercab and Optimus robots underscores Tesla’s ambition to expand beyond electric vehicles and cement its place in the AI and robotics industry. However, with mounting pressure from competitors and ongoing investigations into its autonomous driving systems, the road ahead remains uncertain for Musk’s futuristic vision.

Pinalawig ng Comelec ang deadline sa paghahain ng petisyon laban sa mga nuisance candidate

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Pinalawig ng Comelec ang deadline sa paghahain ng petisyon laban sa mga nuisance candidate

MAYNILA. Pinalawig ng Commission on Elections (Comelec) ang deadline para sa paghahain ng mga petisyon laban sa mga kandidatong itinuturing na “nuisance candidates” sa darating na halalan.

Ayon sa Comelec, ang bagong deadline ay itinakda mula Lunes, Oktubre 14, 2024, hanggang Miyerkules, Oktubre 16, 2024, mula 8:00 a.m. hanggang 5:00 p.m. Inanunsyo ito ng komisyon kasunod ng Comelec Memorandum noong Oktubre 11, 2024, na kaugnay ng Memorandum Circular No. 66 mula sa Office of the President tungkol sa suspensyon ng trabaho sa mga lungsod ng Maynila at Pasay sa Oktubre 14 at 15.

“Please take notice that the Commission (en banc) approved the extension of the deadline for the filing of Petitions Against Nuisance Candidates from Monday, 14 Oct. 2024 to Wednesday, 16 Oct. 2024, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., in view of Comelec Memorandum dated 11 October 2024, in relation to Memorandum Circular No. 66 of the Office of the President on work suspension in the Cities of Manila and Pasay on 14 and 15 October 2024,” ayon sa abiso ng komisyon.

Ang pagpapalawig ng deadline ay kaugnay ng suspensyon ng trabaho sa gobyerno na ipinag-utos ng Malacañang para bigyang-daan ang pagsasagawa ng isang international event, ang Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR), na gaganapin sa Pasay City. Inaasahan ng mga awtoridad na magdudulot ito ng matinding daloy ng trapiko dahil sa pagdating ng mga delegado mula sa iba’t ibang bansa.

Ipinaliwanag din ng Comelec na ang publiko ay binibigyan ng limang araw matapos ang paghahain ng certificates of candidacy upang maghain ng petisyon laban sa mga kandidatong nais tumakbo sa pambansa o lokal na posisyon sa May 2025 midterm elections.

Ang pagpapalawig na ito ay inaasahan na magbibigay ng mas maraming oras para sa mga reklamo laban sa mga nuisance candidates na nagsisilbing sagabal sa tunay na proseso ng halalan.

U.S. shifts strategy in Lebanon: From diplomacy to letting conflict unfold

Venus L Peñaflor
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U.S. shifts strategy in Lebanon: From diplomacy to letting conflict unfold

WASHINGTON, D.C. After weeks of intense efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, the United States has adopted a markedly different approach: allowing the conflict in Lebanon to continue without direct intervention. This shift reflects the U.S.’s evolving goals in a region where the dynamics have rapidly changed.

As recently as two weeks ago, both the U.S. and France were calling for a 21-day ceasefire to prevent a full-scale Israeli invasion of Lebanon. However, those efforts were upended by key developments, including Israel’s assassination of Hezbollah leader Syed Hassan Nasrallah and the launch of Israeli ground operations on October 1, along with airstrikes targeting the group’s leadership.

With the conflict escalating, the U.S. has now ceased its calls for a ceasefire. “We do support Israel launching these incursions to degrade Hezbollah’s infrastructure so ultimately we can get a diplomatic resolution,” stated U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller earlier this week.

This strategic pivot is driven by the U.S.’s dual objectives: weakening Hezbollah, a powerful Iran-backed militia, while also managing the broader conflict in the Middle East. By supporting Israel’s military campaign, Washington hopes to dismantle Hezbollah’s capabilities, although this course of action carries the risk of escalating the conflict into a wider regional war.

Hezbollah’s Role and U.S. Concerns

The current phase of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict began after Hezbollah launched missiles at Israeli positions in response to the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas. The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, swiftly retaliated, escalating both ground and air operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

Jon Alterman, a former U.S. State Department official, explained that the U.S. wants to see Hezbollah weakened but is wary of creating instability. “If you can’t change the Israeli approach, you might as well try to channel it in a constructive way,” he said.

This “virtue of necessity” approach, as former U.S. Middle East negotiator Aaron David Miller described it, suggests that Washington is now prioritizing strategic outcomes over immediate ceasefire negotiations. The administration likely sees this as a moment to weaken Hezbollah while reserving leverage to restrain Israel if needed, particularly after a recent ballistic missile attack by Tehran.

A Risky Bet on Military Pressure

Washington believes that by supporting Israel’s military actions, it could achieve two primary goals: curbing Tehran’s influence by weakening Hezbollah and possibly paving the way for a new government in Lebanon. Hezbollah, which has played a dominant role in Lebanese politics for decades, is seen by many as a key proxy for Iran’s influence in the region.

“On the one hand, many Lebanese people bristle under the weight of Hezbollah’s presence in Lebanon. But at the same time … this change is being foisted upon Lebanon through a very violent campaign,” noted Jonathan Lord, a former Pentagon official now with the Center for a New American Security in Washington.

However, this strategy comes with significant risks. While U.S. officials emphasize that their long-term goal is to enforce United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701—which mandates a peacekeeping mission (UNIFIL) in southern Lebanon to keep the area free of weapons outside of the Lebanese state’s control—the fighting risks destabilizing Lebanon further.

As Alterman highlighted, Israeli leadership, particularly Prime Minister Netanyahu, feels emboldened by recent gains. “Netanyahu sees all of his gambles paying off, and it strikes me as a hard moment for Israel to feel like it should stop pressing its advantage,” he said.

Fears of a Broader War

The escalation of hostilities in Lebanon has also heightened fears of a regional war, especially given Iran’s recent missile strike and the potential for further retaliation. While Washington has cautioned Israel against repeating the Gaza scenario—where over a year of military operations has turned the enclave into a wasteland with nearly 42,000 casualties, according to local health officials—analysts warn that Lebanon could suffer a similar fate.

With no meaningful ceasefire talks underway, and Israeli operations expected to continue for “weeks if not months,” as U.S. and European officials suggest, the conflict remains at a critical juncture. The U.S., by allowing the situation to unfold, is betting on a military solution that could reshape the region—though not without considerable risk.

Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Nihon Hidankyo for advocacy against nuclear weapons

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Nihon Hidankyo for advocacy against nuclear weapons

The Nobel Peace Prize for 2024 has been awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, a Japanese organization composed of survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, for its relentless activism against nuclear weapons. The Norwegian Nobel Committee announced the award last Friday, citing the organization’s efforts to keep the dangers of nuclear arms at the forefront of global discussions.

Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Nobel Committee, stated that the award was especially significant given the current “pressure on the taboo against the use of nuclear weapons.” This concern comes amidst the escalating rhetoric surrounding nuclear armament, particularly following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent shift in Russia’s nuclear doctrine, which has lowered the threshold for nuclear weapons use.

“The atomic bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, also known as the hibakusha, are selfless, soul-bearing witnesses of the horrific human cost of nuclear weapons,” said U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres in a statement congratulating Nihon Hidankyo. He added, “Nuclear weapons remain a clear and present danger to humanity.”

Emotional Response from Nihon Hidankyo

In Hiroshima, Toshiyuki Mimaki, chairperson of Nihon Hidankyo’s local branch, was visibly moved upon hearing the announcement. “Is it really true? Unbelievable!” Mimaki exclaimed, as tears filled his eyes at the city hall where he awaited the news.

The organization has been advocating for the total abolition of nuclear weapons since its founding in 1956, seeking to address the health problems of bomb survivors and raise awareness of the catastrophic consequences of nuclear warfare.

A Legacy of Anti-Nuclear Advocacy

The Nobel Committee has recognized efforts to eradicate nuclear weapons multiple times. The International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2017. In 1995, Joseph Rotblat and the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs were honored for their work in reducing the role of nuclear weapons in international politics. Beatrice Fihn, former ICAN executive director, expressed deep emotion over Nihon Hidankyo’s recognition, calling it a significant moment in their shared struggle.

“We are partners in this fight,” Fihn said, adding that the hibakusha “know nuclear weapons the best. They know how it feels like, how it looks like, how it smells when your city is burning from nuclear weapons use.”

Global Context and Continuing Tensions

The prize comes during intense conflict in several regions, including Ukraine and the Middle East. Watne Frydnes noted the increasing global tensions involving nuclear threats, particularly from Russia and the ongoing war in Gaza. The Israeli military continues its conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon, while Iran, a staunch supporter of both Hamas and Hezbollah, has fired ballistic missiles at Israel.

“The threats of using nuclear weapons are putting pressure on the important international norm against their use,” Frydnes remarked, reinforcing the Nobel Committee’s belief that honoring the survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki will help preserve this fragile international consensus.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen added her voice to the conversation, stating, “The spectre of Hiroshima and Nagasaki still looms over humanity. This Nobel Peace Prize sends a powerful message. We have the duty to remember and an even greater duty to protect future generations from the horrors of nuclear war.”

The prize includes an award of 11 million Swedish kronor ($1 million). As per Alfred Nobel’s wishes, the Nobel Peace Prize is decided by a five-member Norwegian committee and awarded in Oslo.

Pagpapatigil sa paggamit ng mother tongue sa pagtuturo, tinintahan na ni Pangulong Marcos

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Pagpapatigil sa paggamit ng mother tongue sa pagtuturo, tinintahan na ni Pangulong Marcos

MAYNILA. Pinirmahan na ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ang Republic Act 12027 na nagtatakda ng pagpapatigil sa paggamit ng mother tongue bilang medium sa pagtuturo mula Kindergarten hanggang Grade 3, at binibigyang opsyon na ipatupad ito sa mga monolingual classes.

Ang mga monolingual class ay tumutukoy sa mga grupo ng mga estudyanteng nagsasalita ng iisang katutubong wika at naka-enroll sa parehong grade level sa isang school year.

Ayon sa Republic Act 12027, ang medium ng pagtuturo ay dapat ibalik sa Filipino at English, maliban na lamang kung may batas na nagtatakda ng paggamit ng regional language bilang auxiliary medium of instruction.

Sa Senado, naaprubahan sa ikatlo at huling pagbasa ang Senate Bill 2457, na may parehong layunin na itigil ang paggamit ng mother tongue bilang medium of instruction. Unanimous ang naging resulta ng botohan, kung saan 22 senador ang bumoto pabor sa panukala.

Si Senador Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman ng Senate Committee on Basic Education, ang pangunahing may-akda ng panukala. Sa ilalim ng kanyang suhestyon, maliban sa mga monolingual classes, ang pagtuturo sa basic education mula Kindergarten hanggang Grade 3 ay magpapatuloy gamit ang Filipino at English, maliban kung may ibang batas na nagtatakda.

Ipinaliwanag ni Gatchalian na ang paggamit ng mga lokal na wika bilang auxiliary media of instruction ay isang mas flexible na pamamaraan na tugma sa Saligang Batas. “Ang paggamit ng mga lokal na wika ay hindi ganap na aalisin, ngunit ito’y gagamitin na lamang bilang pantulong na wika,” ayon sa kanya.

Patuloy na pinagtatalunan ang epekto ng mother tongue sa pagkatuto ng mga estudyante, ngunit sa bagong batas, inaasahang mabibigyan ng mas maraming opsyon ang mga guro at mag-aaral sa paggamit ng Filipino at Ingles sa pagtuturo.

Israeli strikes in Lebanon escalate: Lebanese soldiers and UN peacekeepers caught in crossfire

Venus L Peñaflor
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Israeli strikes in Lebanon escalate: Lebanese soldiers and UN peacekeepers caught in crossfire

BEIRUT. Israeli airstrikes killed two Lebanese soldiers and wounded two U.N. peacekeepers in southern Lebanon on Friday. The Lebanese military reported that an Israeli airstrike targeted a building near a military checkpoint in Bint Jbeil province, causing the fatalities. This incident occurred hours after Israeli forces struck the headquarters of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), injuring two peacekeepers for the second consecutive day.

The Lebanese army, which has largely remained on the sidelines of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, confirmed that three other soldiers were also wounded in the attack. While Israel’s military acknowledged targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, they claimed to be unaware of any Lebanese military presence in the vicinity.

Worsening Conflict and Hezbollah’s Response

The strikes are part of Israel’s expanding campaign against Hezbollah, with intense airstrikes across Lebanon and a ground invasion at the border. Hezbollah has been launching rockets into Israel, aligned with Palestinian factions following the deadly October 7 Hamas attack on southern Israel, which claimed 1,200 lives and led to 250 hostages being taken.

Israel’s military retaliation has been extensive, with the Lebanese Health Ministry reporting over 2,237 deaths, including Hezbollah fighters, civilians, and medical personnel. On Friday, the ministry confirmed the deaths of two children — a two-year-old and a 16-year-old — in airstrikes on the southern village of Baysarieh.

Hezbollah’s rocket fire has resulted in the deaths of 29 civilians and 39 Israeli soldiers, with clashes escalating since Israel’s ground invasion began on September 30. In contrast, Israel’s attacks on Hezbollah targets have left widespread destruction across Lebanon.

UN Peacekeepers Under Fire

For the second time in as many days, Israeli forces fired on a UNIFIL observation post in Naqoura, injuring two Sri Lankan peacekeepers. One of the peacekeepers was hospitalized in Tyre, while the other received medical care at the scene. UNIFIL condemned the attack as a “grave violation of international humanitarian law,” calling on all parties to ensure the protection of peacekeeping forces.

Jean-Pierre Lacroix, head of UN peacekeeping operations, ordered the temporary relocation of 300 UNIFIL personnel stationed at frontline positions near the Lebanese border. “Peacekeepers must be protected by all parties of the conflict, and what has happened is obviously condemnable,” said U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

The French foreign ministry also voiced its outrage, accusing Israel of deliberately targeting the peacekeepers and summoning the Israeli ambassador in protest. The U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urged Israeli officials to ensure the safety of UN forces and to transition to a diplomatic resolution.

Beirut Devastated by Airstrikes

In Beirut, the aftermath of Israeli airstrikes on Thursday left residents of the Burj Abi Haidar neighborhood reeling. The strikes leveled two residential buildings, killing at least 22 people and injuring dozens. Rescue workers continued to search for survivors amid the rubble of the collapsed structures.

“The world suddenly turned upside down,” recalled Ahmad al-Khatib, a Lebanese postal worker, as he described the harrowing moments when he pulled his daughter from the debris of their destroyed apartment. His wife remains in intensive care after being hit by a piece of shrapnel during the strike.

Local media speculated that the airstrikes targeted Wafiq Safa, a senior Hezbollah security official, though he was reportedly not in the building at the time. Israel’s military did not comment on the reports.

As Hezbollah continues its rocket barrages into Israel, tensions remain high. On Friday, a rocket launched from Lebanon struck northern Israel, killing a Thai farm worker. Hezbollah has vowed to intensify its attacks, with its chief spokesperson Mohammed Afif declaring, “This is only the beginning.”

This conflict shows no signs of abating, with both sides entrenched and suffering significant losses. The international community is increasingly concerned about the potential for further escalation, especially with UN personnel now becoming regular targets in the ongoing violence.

Movie Review: How Donald Trump became “The Apprentice”—Ali Abbasi’s provocative exploration of power and influence

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Movie Review: How Donald Trump became “The Apprentice”—Ali Abbasi’s provocative exploration of power and influence

In the film The Apprentice, Danish-Iranian director Ali Abbasi dives into Donald Trump’s formative years, long before he became the 45th President of the United States or the face of the reality TV show The Apprentice. The film explores the critical relationship between a young, ambitious Trump and his ruthless mentor, Roy Cohn, the notorious lawyer and political fixer who shaped the real estate mogul’s approach to power and success.

A Mentor’s Influence: Roy Cohn and the Rise of Trump

The heart of The Apprentice lies in Trump’s relationship with Cohn, played by Jeremy Strong, known for his portrayal of Kendall Roy in Succession. Cohn, who once served as chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy during the infamous Red Scare, later became a power broker in New York City. Through Cohn, Trump learns a brutal set of survival rules that would guide him throughout his career: “Attack, attack, attack,” “Admit nothing, deny everything,” and “Claim victory, never admit defeat.”

Sebastian Stan’s portrayal of a younger Trump captures his early ambition and charm, providing a nuanced look at the real estate heir as he works to gain legitimacy and favor in the cutthroat world of New York business. Stan’s performance avoids parody, opting instead to reveal a character whose drive to succeed pushes him to emulate Cohn’s unscrupulous tactics.

Power, Politics, and Transformation

While Abbasi’s film is not a traditional biopic, it paints a vivid picture of how Trump’s early experiences, particularly his ties to Cohn, influenced his rise. Set against the backdrop of 1970s and 80s New York, Trump’s journey from the son of Queens developer Fred Trump to a prominent figure in Manhattan is intertwined with Cohn’s machinations, including his legal assistance in a discrimination case involving the Trump family’s real estate business.

Cohn’s role in Trump’s development isn’t limited to legal matters; he also shapes Trump’s public image, helping him navigate social circles, pressuring officials, and even upgrading his wardrobe with expensive Brioni suits. Cohn’s notorious parties, frequented by high-profile figures like Andy Warhol, are another glimpse into the influence he wielded over New York’s elite.

The film’s pivotal moments, including Trump’s successful launch of the Grand Hyatt hotel on 42nd Street, highlight how Cohn’s guidance propelled Trump into the public eye. But the movie also examines the personal toll, particularly on Trump’s relationship with his first wife, Ivana Trump, played by Maria Bakalova. Their marriage deteriorates in one of the film’s most shocking scenes, where Ivana accuses Trump of sexual assault during a particularly volatile argument, a claim she later recanted in real life.

The Unfinished Legacy of Roy Cohn’s Lessons

The film leaves viewers with a lingering question: How exactly did this version of Trump—hungry for power and willing to go to any lengths to win—become the political figure who shocked the world by winning the presidency in 2016? While The Apprentice doesn’t fully bridge the gap between Trump’s early years and his eventual leap into politics, it powerfully showcases the lessons Trump learned from Cohn, lessons that would continue to define his public and private persona.

With its R-rating for sexual content, nudity, language, and depictions of drug use, The Apprentice is a provocative and bold take on a controversial figure. While it might not change anyone’s opinion of Trump, it offers insight into how he became the man we now know, and how power and influence were wielded to catapult him to the highest office in the land.

The Apprentice, distributed by Briarcliff Entertainment, runs 120 minutes. It delivers a compelling, though incomplete, examination of one of the most influential figures in modern American politics. Rating: 2.5 stars out of 4.

Philippines urges China and ASEAN to expedite negotiations on South China Sea code

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Philippines urges China and ASEAN to expedite negotiations on South China Sea code

VIENTIANE, Laos. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. pressed for urgency at a regional summit on Thursday, calling on Southeast Asian leaders and China to accelerate the long-delayed negotiations on a code of conduct for the South China Sea. Speaking at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Laos, with Chinese Premier Li Qiang present, Marcos stressed the need for substantive progress to manage ongoing disputes and reduce tensions in the region.

“There should be more urgency in the pace of the negotiations of the ASEAN-China code of conduct,” Marcos stated, expressing frustration over the continued deadlock. He noted the persistent “harassment and intimidation” from China’s actions in disputed waters. “It is regrettable that the overall situation in the South China Sea remains tense and unchanged. We continue to be subjected to harassment and intimidation,” Marcos said, according to a statement from his office.

Ongoing Tensions with China

The Philippines and China have repeatedly clashed over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. The Philippine government has accused China’s coast guard of aggressive actions, while Beijing has labeled Manila’s activities as provocative incursions into its claimed territory. These disputes have raised concerns about a potential escalation involving the United States, given its 1951 defense treaty with the Philippines, which could obligate U.S. involvement if the Philippines is attacked.

China, citing historical maps, claims nearly the entire South China Sea. It has deployed its coast guard deep into Southeast Asia, including the exclusive economic zones of several ASEAN countries, such as Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

Slow Progress on the Code of Conduct

Efforts to establish a binding maritime code have been sluggish since they began in 2017, despite initial agreement between China and ASEAN in 2002. Years of discussions over the framework and negotiation guidelines have led to little progress. Some ASEAN members remain skeptical about whether the final code will be legally binding.

ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn remarked that negotiations are ongoing, stating, “It’s not static, it’s not standstill.”

Marcos, however, voiced frustration that the parties involved could not reach consensus on basic terms, such as “self-restraint.” He said, “The definition of a concept as basic as ‘self-restraint’ does not yet enjoy consensus.”

China’s Response

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning responded to the remarks, reaffirming China’s commitment to the code negotiations but also defending its territorial claims. “China firmly opposes any infringement and provocation, and firmly safeguards its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” Mao said in a briefing.

Regional and Global Involvement

The ASEAN summit in Laos brought together several global leaders, including U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The summit sets the stage for Friday’s East Asia Summit plenary gathering.

The summit also saw bilateral meetings aimed at fostering security and economic ties, particularly between South Korea and Japan. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japan’s Ishiba held their first summit, focusing on improving relations and enhancing trilateral security cooperation with Washington.

Broader Cooperation and Supply Chain Resilience

During the summit, South Korea and ASEAN formalized a comprehensive strategic partnership, with President Yoon noting plans for defense industry cooperation and enhancing ASEAN’s cybersecurity capabilities.

ASEAN leaders also agreed to upgrade the ASEAN-China free trade area, including provisions for customs, supply chain connectivity, competition, consumer protection, and reducing non-tariff barriers. They committed to improving the region’s supply chain resilience, innovation, and competitiveness.

Myanmar Crisis and ASEAN’s Peace Efforts

Discussions at the summit also touched on the ongoing civil war in Myanmar, which has challenged ASEAN’s unity and credibility. The leaders urged all parties in Myanmar to halt violence against civilians and backed efforts to find a peaceful solution, including collaborating with neighboring states and the United Nations to address issues like narcotics and crime.

Marcos acknowledged the limited success of ASEAN’s peace process, known as the “Five-Point Consensus,” and said the bloc was exploring new strategies to address the crisis. “We have to admit… we have not been very successful in actually improving the situation,” Marcos told reporters.

As the summit progresses, the calls for stronger cooperation on both regional security and economic resilience remain at the forefront, with leaders striving to navigate complex geopolitical challenges in Southeast Asia.

Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced on Thursday that the launch of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership initiative between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Republic of Korea (ROK) will usher in a “new era of cooperation” across various sectors.

Hurricane Milton leaves 4 dead, homes destroyed in Florida; catastrophic surge avoided

EDGARDO HERNAL
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Hurricane Milton leaves 4 dead, homes destroyed in Florida; catastrophic surge avoided

ST. PETERSBURG, Florida. Hurricane Milton left a trail of destruction across Florida on Thursday, killing at least four people, spawning multiple tornadoes, and destroying homes. Despite the damage, the state narrowly avoided the catastrophic storm surge that had been feared.

Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed the deaths in a morning briefing, stating that while the worst-case scenario was avoided, the damage remains significant. “One of the blessings for us is that we did not see that predicted storm surge. That saved a lot,” Tampa Mayor Jane Castor noted during a press conference.

The four fatalities occurred in St. Lucie County, located on Florida’s east coast. Two of those deaths were in the Spanish Lakes Communities, a senior living area, where multiple tornadoes touched down on Wednesday afternoon, according to county spokesperson Erick Gill. The identities of the other two victims have yet to be confirmed.

By 8 p.m. Wednesday, there were 19 confirmed tornadoes in Florida as Hurricane Milton made landfall. More than 3 million homes and businesses remained without power on Thursday morning, as reported by PowerOutage.us. Many residents were still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, which struck nearly two weeks earlier.

Among the damage, the storm tore through Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, home to the Tampa Bay Rays baseball team, leaving a gaping hole in its fabric roof. While the stadium had been turned into a response staging area, no injuries were reported.

In the Tampa area, Hurricane Milton caused extensive damage, felling trees and scattering debris across roadways, while local news footage showed downed power lines and some flooded neighborhoods. Emergency crews were dispatched overnight to respond to numerous calls for help, including an incident where a tree collapsed onto a home with 15 occupants inside, including children. All were safely transported to a shelter, according to Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw.

Despite Milton’s devastating effects, officials remain cautious. Heavy rainfall, reaching up to 18 inches (457 mm) in some areas, could still lead to river flooding. Authorities are closely monitoring water levels, which are currently stable but could rise in the coming days.

DeSantis acknowledged the challenge of cleaning up the aftermath. “Our state is a peninsula in the middle of a tropical environment. We are just built to be able to respond to hurricanes,” he said in an interview with CNBC. He praised the Biden administration for swiftly granting all emergency assistance requests, stating, “We’ll survey the damage and get people on their feet. We’ll get through this.”

In Fort Myers, resident Connor Ferin described the terrifying moment when a tornado struck his home. “All this happened instantaneous, like these windows blew out,” he said. “I grabbed the two dogs and run under my bed and that was it. Probably one minute total.” His home was left without a roof and littered with debris.

Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale when it made landfall, packed sustained winds of 120 mph (205 kph). It weakened as it moved inland, downgrading to a Category 1 hurricane with winds of 85 mph (145 kph) by the time it crossed the Florida peninsula’s east coast.

The eye of the storm first struck Siesta Key, a barrier island near Sarasota, approximately 60 miles south of Tampa Bay. As the storm moved eastward, it left damage in its wake but spared some of the more densely populated areas from the catastrophic surge that had been feared.

Throughout the state, response crews worked through the night, clearing debris and restoring services. Tornadoes caused widespread destruction, particularly in St. Lucie County, where 17 twisters touched down and destroyed roughly 100 homes, many of them mobile units, according to St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson.

As many as 2 million residents were ordered to evacuate before Milton’s landfall, while millions more remained in the storm’s path. Flights across Florida were disrupted, with more than 2,200 cancellations reported by Thursday morning, particularly in major airports like Orlando, Tampa, and Palm Beach.

With Florida still reeling from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, both storms are expected to cause billions of dollars in damage across the southern U.S. Emergency services continue to assess the full extent of Milton’s devastation as recovery efforts unfold.

Big boss ng Lucky South 99, nahuli sa Laguna

Arman B. Cambe
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Big boss ng Lucky South 99, nahuli sa Laguna

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna. Naaresto ng mga awtoridad nitong Huwebes ng gabi ang itinuturong “big boss” ng Lucky South 99, isang Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) na nakabase sa Porac, Pampanga.

Kinilala ni Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) spokesman Winston Casio ang suspek na si Lyu Dong, kilala rin sa mga alyas na Boss Boga, Boss Apao, at Boss Bahaw. Nahuli si Lyu sa isang subdivision sa Laguna bandang alas-8 ng gabi.

Ayon kay Casio, may warrant of arrest at mission order laban kay Lyu Dong. “Malaking bagay ito. Isa-isa na nating natutugis ‘yung mga big bosses… Kahit makapagpakulong tayo ng ilang libong Chinese workers… hindi sapat ‘yun kung hindi tayo makapagpakulong ng big bosses,” pahayag ni Casio.

Dagdag pa niya, sinundan nila ang matibay na impormasyong nakuha at inaresto si Lyu Dong habang papalabas ito ng kanyang tahanan. “Siya po ay papunta sa inyong sasakyan, lumabas sa inyong bahay… May mga kasama po siya, meron po parang ginaganap. Lumabas po siya ng panandalian doon sa party kasama ang kanilang mga bodyguard, siguro may bibilhin o may pupuntahan. Nung nakita natin ang ating mga officers, nung ating mga ahente, sinunggaban na po siya… Dahil matagal na natin siyang minamanmanan,” dagdag ni Casio.

Bagama’t may kaunting pagtutol sa kanyang pag-aresto, naging maayos ang operasyon at walang matinding insidente. Ilang kasama ni Lyu Dong ang nadakip din sa nasabing operasyon.

Ang pagkakaaresto kay Lyu Dong ay bahagi ng patuloy na kampanya ng gobyerno laban sa mga iligal na operasyon ng POGO sa bansa.

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