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Philippines demands clarification from U.S. over alleged anti-vax propaganda operation

Venus L Peñaflor
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Philippines demands clarification from U.S. over alleged anti-vax propaganda operation

MANILA. The Philippines government remains persistent in seeking clarification from the Pentagon regarding a covert U.S. propaganda operation aimed at sowing doubt among Filipinos about Chinese vaccines during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, a senior official from the foreign ministry revealed on Tuesday.

A recent investigation by Reuters, published on June 14, exposed how the Pentagon orchestrated a clandestine campaign from 2020 to 2021 to discredit the Sinovac vaccine and other pandemic aid from China across several developing nations. This operation was part of broader efforts by the United States to counter China’s growing influence globally, particularly in Southeast Asia, and began during the administration of former President Donald Trump, continuing into President Joseph Biden’s tenure.

“We have not received an official and formal response yet on confirmation, denial, or anything. We are waiting for that. We continue to monitor and ask for information,” stated Jose Victor Chan-Gonzaga, Assistant Secretary for Foreign Affairs, addressing the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s ongoing investigation into the U.S. information campaign.

Chan-Gonzaga noted that upon the publication of the Reuters report, the Philippine foreign ministry promptly engaged with the U.S. embassy in Manila through established diplomatic channels but was redirected to the U.S. Department of Defense for further inquiries.

In response to queries on Tuesday, the U.S. embassy directed Reuters to the Defense Department for comments.

As cited in the June 14 Reuters report, a senior official from the Defense Department acknowledged the military’s involvement in the secret campaign aimed at undermining confidence in China’s vaccine, though specifics were withheld.

Senator Imee Marcos, chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, condemned the U.S. military’s actions as “evil, wicked, dangerous, unethical.” Marcos, sister of Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., highlighted the staggering toll of COVID-19 in the country, stating that the number of infections had surpassed 4.1 million with nearly 67,000 deaths, according to World Health Organization data, making the Philippines one of the worst affected nations in Southeast Asia.

During the Senate committee hearing on Tuesday, Health Undersecretary Rosario Vergeire acknowledged health officials’ concerns about vaccine misinformation, initially perceived as sporadic rather than orchestrated.

The Philippines government continues to await a formal response from the U.S. authorities regarding the alleged propaganda operation, underscoring the significance of transparency and accountability in international relations amid ongoing global health challenges.

Reuters uncovered over 300 accounts on X (formerly Twitter) resembling profiles described by former U.S. military sources familiar with operations in the Philippines. These accounts, created mostly in the summer of 2020, prominently featured the hashtag #Chinaangvirus, a Tagalog phrase implying China was the source of the virus.

A typical July 2020 tweet in Tagalog stated, “COVID came from China and the VACCINE also came from China, don’t trust China!” alongside a photo of a syringe, a Chinese flag, and a graph depicting rising infections. Another post declared, “From China – PPE, Face Mask, Vaccine: FAKE. But the Coronavirus is real.”

Upon Reuters’ inquiry, X removed these profiles, determining them part of a coordinated bot campaign based on activity patterns and internal data.

Reuters investigation revealed that the U.S. military’s anti-vaccine initiative commenced in spring 2020, extending beyond Southeast Asia until mid-2021. Tailoring the campaign for diverse regions like Central Asia and the Middle East, the Pentagon utilized fake accounts across various platforms to sow distrust in China’s vaccines, leveraging concerns about pork gelatin content to suggest they violated Islamic dietary laws.

Initiated under former President Donald Trump and persisting into President Joe Biden’s administration, the program continued despite warnings from social media executives. The Biden administration halted the anti-vax efforts in spring 2021, which also targeted vaccines from other competitors, prompting an internal Pentagon review.

South Korean military detects 350 North Korean waste balloons as tensions escalate

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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South Korean military detects 350 North Korean waste balloons as tensions escalate

SEOUL. South Korea reported the sighting of 350 North Korean balloons suspected to be carrying waste overnight on Monday, intensifying the ongoing tit-for-tat exchange as tensions escalate on the Korean Peninsula.

The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed that one of the suspected balloons was observed flying over northern Gyeonggi Province, adjacent to Seoul, around 9 p.m. local time (8 p.m. ET). Approximately 100 of these balloons landed in various regions of South Korea, predominantly in northern Gyeonggi Province and the capital city of Seoul, with authorities confirming no hazardous substances have been detected so far.

In response to the incursion, Seoul’s Metropolitan government issued a push notification urging citizens to avoid touching any balloons found on the ground and to promptly report sightings to the authorities.

The South Korean military indicated readiness to resume loudspeaker propaganda broadcasts at the border, a tactic paused in recent years, contingent upon North Korea’s actions.

“Our military stands prepared to initiate anti-North Korea propaganda broadcasts at any moment and will adapt our response according to the strategic and operational situation,” stated the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Tuesday.

Since May, North Korea has launched over 1,000 balloons toward South Korea in retaliation against South Korean activists who have flown leaflets critical of Kim Jong Un’s regime.

Last week, a South Korean advocacy group deployed 20 large balloons carrying anti-North Korean propaganda leaflets and South Korean entertainment USB sticks toward North Korea, triggering a response from Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korea’s leader.

“When you defy clear warnings, you invite inevitable consequences,” Kim Yo Jong warned in a statement.

A South Korean analysis conducted between late May and early June revealed the presence of parasites in the soil from North Korean balloons, possibly originating from human feces. The analysis identified roundworms, whipworms, and larva currens, alongside cloth and wastepaper, though authorities assured the public there was no risk of contamination or infectious disease.

Furthermore, the balloons contained damaged clothing from a South Korean brand, signaling hostility toward South Korean products, as well as apparel featuring imitations of Disney characters.

The recent escalation in balloon launches coincides with heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula and stalled inter-Korean diplomacy. Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a defense agreement with North Korea amidst discussions on its nuclear disarmament efforts. Meanwhile, Kim Jong Un has reiterated intentions to expand North Korea’s nuclear arsenal and has issued threats against South Korea.

In a show of support, a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier arrived in South Korea over the weekend ahead of trilateral military exercises with South Korea and Japan in the peninsula’s waters. This deployment underscores Washington’s commitment to its alliance with South Korea.

On the diplomatic front, U.S., South Korean, and Japanese officials held trilateral discussions, expressing deep concern over the growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

“The United States, ROK, and Japan strongly condemn the increasing military collaboration between the DPRK and Russia, including arms transfers that violate UN Security Council Resolutions and threaten regional stability,” a joint statement from the officials affirmed.

Amid these developments, South Korea and the United States signed a new memorandum of understanding for enhanced diplomatic intelligence sharing and analysis on Monday, underscoring ongoing efforts to address regional security challenges.

Violent clashes in Nairobi as Kenyan police fire live rounds at tax protesters

EDGARDO HERNAL
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Violent clashes in Nairobi as Kenyan police fire live rounds at tax protesters

NAIROBI, Kenya. Chaos engulfed Kenya’s capital on Tuesday as thousands of protesters stormed the parliament building in Nairobi, setting parts of it ablaze and forcing legislators to flee, marking one of the most direct challenges to the government in decades. Journalists witnessed scenes of unrest with at least three bodies seen outside the complex where police had opened fire.

The protests erupted in response to a new finance bill that proposes additional taxes in a country known as East Africa’s economic hub, where frustrations over the high cost of living have long simmered. Despite vehement opposition, lawmakers voted to pass the bill before evacuating through a tunnel as protesters, predominantly youth, breached security to enter parliament. Protesters reportedly allowed opposition legislators who voted against the bill to leave the besieged building unharmed, and firefighters later extinguished the flames.

Amid the escalating turmoil, one protester killed was wrapped in the Kenyan flag, symbolizing the depth of discontent among demonstrators. The unrest quickly spread to other parts of the country, underscoring the widespread dissatisfaction.

Kenya’s government initially offered no immediate comment as internet service noticeably slowed across the country. President William Ruto, who was attending an African Union retreat outside Nairobi, was expected to sign the finance bill into law within the week, with a two-week window to act.

Meanwhile, near parliament, the office of Nairobi’s governor, a member of the ruling party, was briefly engulfed in flames, prompting police to deploy water cannons to douse the fire. Protesters chanted, “We’re coming for every politician,” reflecting their anger and determination.

In response to the protests, police resorted to firing live ammunition and tear gas canisters, targeting demonstrators seeking medical aid at a church-based medical tent near the parliament complex. Kenyatta National Hospital reported receiving 45 victims, though their conditions were not immediately disclosed.

The Kenya Human Rights Commission condemned the police actions, sharing footage of officers shooting at protesters and demanding accountability. The commission urged President Ruto to intervene immediately to halt the violence.

Amid these domestic challenges, hundreds of Kenyan police officers, accused in the past of human rights abuses, recently deployed to Haiti as part of a UN-backed multinational force to combat local gangs, despite legal challenges in Kenya.

President Ruto attempted to defuse tensions earlier in the week, expressing pride in the youth for their civic engagement and promising dialogue on their concerns. However, frustrations have mounted over soaring fuel prices and other necessities, exacerbating inequality and discontent across the nation.

As protests intensified in Nairobi, similar demonstrations erupted in other cities like Nakuru and Embu, where protesters attempted to storm government buildings and burned ruling party offices, according to local media reports. Police clashes were also reported in Nyeri.

Media freedom has come under threat amidst the unrest, with broadcasters like KTN facing government pressure to cease coverage of the protests. Civil society groups have raised alarms about alleged police abductions of activists and demonstrators, with reports of disappearances increasing.

Parliament Speaker Moses Wetangula has demanded answers from the inspector general of police regarding the whereabouts of those reportedly abducted, amid calls for transparency and accountability.

Pagtaas ng presyo ng galunggong at ibang isda, kinuwestiyon ng agri goup

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Pagtaas ng presyo ng galunggong at ibang isda, kinuwestiyon ng agri goup

MAYNILA. Kinuwestiyon ng Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) nitong Martes ang biglaang pagtaas ng presyo ng galunggong at iba pang isda, sa kabila ng sinasabi ng mga grupo na sapat naman ang suplay.

Batay sa pinakahuling datos ng Department of Agriculture (DA), umabot sa P180 hanggang P280 kada kilo ang presyo ng galunggong sa Metro Manila mula sa P160 hanggang P260 noong nakaraang linggo.

“Dapat nasa P200 or P180 lang ang presyo dapat ng galunggong. Hindi na dapat tumaas pa doon,” ani SINAG Chairperson Rosendo So sa isang pahayag.

Ayon sa Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), patuloy nilang iniimbestigahan ang sanhi ng pagtaas ng presyo. Sinabi rin ng ahensya na naapektuhan ang suplay ng isda dahil sa mga kamakailang pag-ulan.

“Wala tayo nakataas na closed fishing season so tuluy-tuloy yung pangingisda ng ating mga mangingisda maliban lamang kung may sama ng panahon,” pahayag ni BFAR Chief Information Officer Nazzer Briguera.

Sinabi rin ng Department of Agriculture (DA) na pinalalakas nila ang industriya ng aquaculture sa bansa. Binigyang-diin nila ang kahalagahan ng saradong panahon ng pangingisda upang mapanatili ang suplay ng isda.

Israel Supreme Court ends draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews

Venus L Peñaflor
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Israel Supreme Court ends draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews

JERUSALEM. Israel’s Supreme Court delivered a landmark ruling on Tuesday, mandating the conscription of ultra-Orthodox Jewish seminary students into the military, a decision that intensifies political tensions for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid a fragile coalition government.

Netanyahu’s Likud party described the Supreme Court’s decision as “perplexing,” citing ongoing efforts in parliament to formulate a new conscription law to address the issue. The ruling challenges the longstanding exemptions enjoyed by ultra-Orthodox parties, crucial allies in Netanyahu’s coalition, who view military service as incompatible with their religious practices.

Leaders of the ultra-Orthodox parties expressed disappointment but refrained from immediate threats to the government. However, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s support for drafting seminary students could strain Netanyahu’s coalition further.

The exemption has been a contentious issue as Israel grapples with military demands heightened by conflicts with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The court’s unanimous decision underscored the inequality of shouldering military burdens during wartime.

Under Israeli law, citizens are obligated to serve in the military from age 18 for 24 to 32 months. Most of the Arab minority is exempt, and ultra-Orthodox seminary students have historically been exempt as well. Last year, the legal basis for their exemption expired, yet they continued to be excused from service until the Supreme Court’s recent ruling.

In addition to ending exemptions, the court ruled that seminaries would lose state subsidies if scholars do not serve without deferrals or exemptions, further pressuring the ultra-Orthodox coalition.

Education Minister Yoav Kisch expressed hope for compromise amidst ongoing societal and military challenges. “Not in a civil war, not amidst a tough conflict. We can resolve this together,” Kisch stated.

Political analysts view the ruling as a significant challenge for Netanyahu, who has sought to defer the resolution of the conscription issue. “He will try to delay and mitigate the issue’s impact on public discourse,” said Gideon Rahat of the Israel Democracy Institute.

Ultra-Orthodox lawmaker Moshe Gafni criticized the ruling, emphasizing the value of Torah study to Jewish heritage. Opposition parties welcomed the decision, with former defense minister Avigdor Lieberman rejecting the notion of evading military service.

For years, Israel has grappled with legislation to address the conscription issue, which could now potentially destabilize Netanyahu’s government if consensus on a new draft bill fails.

The exemption has sparked protests among Israelis concerned about unequal military burdens, while ultra-Orthodox demonstrators have protested under the slogan “death before conscription,” blocking city streets.

Economically, the exemption impacts Israel’s workforce, with the ultra-Orthodox population expected to grow significantly, straining welfare resources.

Review: June Squibb shines in “Thelma” as a spirited grandma on a mission

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Review: June Squibb shines in “Thelma” as a spirited grandma on a mission

In her first lead film role, June Squibb delivers a delightful performance as Thelma, a 90-something-year-old woman who embarks on a mission to reclaim her stolen $10,000. “Thelma,” the feature debut of writer-director Josh Margolin, is a charming and genuinely funny film that defies expectations.

There’s no shortage of lackluster comedies aimed at senior citizens, but “Thelma” stands out as a refreshing exception. Unlike the exploitative and uninspired offerings, this film showcases Squibb’s talent and brings a heartwarming twist to the revenge genre.

Margolin’s inspiration for “Thelma” came from his grandmother, also named Thelma. The premise—a grandmother on a “Mission: Impossible”-style quest—may sound silly, but the execution is surprisingly grounded. Thelma’s determination and energy, even as she rides a scooter alongside her friend Ben (played by the late Richard Roundtree), make for an engaging and infectious viewing experience.

At 93 years old, Thelma lives alone, having lost her husband a few years prior. Her friends have passed away, yet she refuses to consider assisted living. Squibb’s impeccable comedic timing and full command of her character elevate “Thelma” beyond its initial concept, turning it into a heartwarming and memorable film. 

Gutenberg Bible: A 500-year-old treasure of faith and innovation

Venus L Peñaflor
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Gutenberg Bible: A 500-year-old treasure of faith and innovation

MAINZ, Germany. In the 1450s, Johannes Gutenberg revolutionized the world of printing by creating the first major work in Europe using movable metal type: the Gutenberg Bible. Also known as the 42-line Bible or the Mazarin Bible, this remarkable achievement marked the beginning of a new era for books.

The Genesis of the Gutenberg Bible Gutenberg’s vision was ambitious. He harnessed the power of his movable-type printing press to produce an unparalleled version of the Latin Vulgate translation of the Bible. His wealthy clientele, including leaders of the Catholic Church, eagerly awaited this groundbreaking work. Originally planning to print 150 Bibles, Gutenberg’s demand-driven production led to a total of 180 copies. Today, approximately 48 complete Gutenberg Bibles survive, each a testament to craftsmanship and historical significance.

Unique Features of the Gutenberg Bible

  • Two Volumes: Gutenberg’s workshop produced two-volume Bibles around 1454, meticulously crafted with nearly 1,300 pages.
  • Latin Text: Written in Latin, the Gutenberg Bible contains the Hebrew Old Testament and the Greek New Testament.
  • Double Columns: Each page boasts 42 lines, printed in double columns.
  • Materials: Most copies were printed on paper, while a select few were produced on animal skin (vellum).
  • Customization: After printing, buyers could add hand decorations and bindings according to their preferences and budgets. Ornamentations varied, with some added in Germany and others in France, Belgium, or Spain.

Turning Points and Impact Gutenberg’s invention had profound effects:

  1. Wider Adoption of the Term ‘Bible’: Scholars and priests gained unprecedented access to biblical texts, leading to the broader use of the term “Bible” (Biblia) instead of “scripture.”
  2. Precision and Uniformity: The printed text’s regularity and precision encouraged theological discussions grounded in biblical references.
  3. Vernacular Bibles: Printing Bibles in vernacular languages (e.g., Luther’s Bible and Tyndale’s New Testament) transformed how ordinary parishioners engaged with religion and the clergy.
  4. Lay Interpretation: Laypeople increasingly questioned and interpreted the Bible, shifting away from exclusive reliance on religious leaders.

A Living Legacy Today, the Gutenberg Bible continues to captivate. Curators at institutions like the Morgan Library turn its pages, revealing not only Scripture but also the stories of those who cherished it. As we celebrate its 500-year legacy, this timeless treasure remains a testament to faith, innovation, and the enduring power of the written word.

Members of the New York Public Library Board of Trustees pose for a photo with the first Gutenberg Bible to reach the U.S. 100 years prior, before it is placed on display in the lobby of the New York Public Library on Nov. 7, 1947. From left are Morris Hadley, Junius S. Morgan, Ralph A. Beals, Henry C. Taylor, Roland L. Redmond, and Dr. Albert Berg. The Bible was bought by book collector James Lenox for what was then considered the “mad” price of $2,600. (AP Photo/Ed Ford, File)

Historic tall ship “Amerigo Vespucci” showcases Italian heritage on global tour

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Historic tall ship “Amerigo Vespucci” showcases Italian heritage on global tour

ROME. The iconic Amerigo Vespucci, affectionately known as Italy’s most beautiful ship, is embarking on a round-the-world voyage, bringing a taste of its homeland to foreign shores. The majestic tall ship, named after the famed explorer who lent his name to America, has set sail from Genoa in northern Italy last July, marking its first global tour in two decades.

With its three towering masts adorned with 2,700 square meters (29,000 square feet) of sails, the Vespucci is a navy vessel steeped in history. Its crew of over 260 sailors, including trainees, will traverse more than 30 ports across five continents, providing invaluable training opportunities for those onboard.

The voyage includes a series of temporary expositions, aptly named “Italy villages,” at eight key ports. The inaugural village will be established in Los Angeles next week, as announced by the defense ministry. Visitors can explore pavilions overlooking the main squares, where they’ll witness cooking shows, attend conferences, and enjoy exhibitions. And, of course, they’ll have the unique opportunity to step aboard the Vespucci itself.

Minister Guido Crosetto emphasized the significance of linking the Vespucci’s rich history to Italy’s present. “We’ve transformed an ancient vessel into a driving force,” he stated during a recent news conference.

Beyond Los Angeles, the Vespucci’s journey will take it to cities like Tokyo, Singapore, Mumbai, and Darwin, Australia. Notably, the Los Angeles expo will feature an aerobatics show by the Frecce Tricolori, the renowned Italian air force team.

As the Vespucci approaches the halfway point of its tour, it is expected to return to Italian waters in March 2025. In April, it achieved a historic milestone by passing through Cape Horn—the southernmost tip of South America—marking its first-ever visit to this region.

Ship commander Giuseppe Lai, speaking via video link from the vessel currently sailing off Mexico, expressed pride in the Vespucci’s global impact. “People of Italian origins worldwide are closely following our journey,” he said, underscoring the ship’s enduring allure and cultural significance.

Fire at lithium battery factory in South Korea claims lives of 22 migrant workers

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Fire at lithium battery factory in South Korea claims lives of 22 migrant workers

SEOUL, South Korea. A devastating fire, likely triggered by exploding lithium batteries, tore through a manufacturing facility near South Korea’s capital on Monday, resulting in the tragic loss of 22 lives, primarily Chinese migrant workers. Eight others were injured in the incident.

The fire erupted when batteries detonated while workers were handling and packaging them on the factory’s second floor in Hwaseong City, located just south of Seoul. Fire officials, citing an eyewitness, reported the incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the blaze.

Among the victims, 18 were Chinese nationals, two were South Koreans, and one was Laotian, according to local fire official Kim Jin-young during a televised briefing. The nationality of one deceased individual remains unverified.

Over the past few decades, a significant number of Chinese migrants, including ethnic Koreans, have sought employment opportunities in South Korea. Like other foreign workers from Southeast Asian countries, they often find themselves in physically demanding, low-paying jobs that are less desirable to more affluent South Koreans.

Kim also mentioned that one factory worker remains unaccounted for, and rescue teams continue their search efforts. Two of the injured workers are in serious condition.

The fire originated in one of the factory buildings owned by battery manufacturer Aricell. Authorities will investigate whether fire extinguishing systems were in place and functioning properly.

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are ubiquitous in consumer electronics, from laptops to cell phones. However, if damaged, defective, or packaged incorrectly, they can overheat, leading to fires and explosions. This incident underscores the hazards associated with shipping such batteries aboard aircraft.

9 na NPA, patay sa engkwentro sa Batangas

Arman B. Cambe
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9 na NPA, patay sa engkwentro sa Batangas

TUY, Batangas. Patay ang siyam na hinihinalang miyembro ng Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) sa isang engkwentro sa Sitio Maligas, Barangay Bolbok, bayang ito noong Linggo ng umaga.

Ayon sa ulat, nagsagawa ng security patrol ang mga sundalo mula sa 59th Infantry (PROTECTOR) Battalion matapos makatanggap ng impormasyon mula sa mga residente tungkol sa pagkakaroon ng mga armadong rebelde sa lugar. Sa unang bakbakan, dalawang hindi pa kilalang miyembro ng NPA ang natagpuang patay. Nasamsam din ang isang M16 rifle, isang R4 rifle, isang Uzi sub-machine gun, at isang improvised hand grenade.

Pagkatapos ng tensyon, naganap ang ikalawang yugto ng engkwentro, kung saan isa pang miyembro ng NPA ang nasawi. Nakuha sa kanyaang isang Uzi sub-machine gun at iba pang kagamitan.

Walang naiulat na nasugatan sa hanay ng mga sundalo. Patuloy ang pagtugis sa iba pang mga teroristang CPP-NPA-NDF na nakatakas. Samantala, ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Tuy, sa pamumuno ni Mayor Jose Jecerell C. Cerrado, ay nagbigay ng agarang tulong sa mga apektadong pamilya na lumikas dahil sa insidente.

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