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Electric spoon that makes food taste saltier is now on sale in Japan

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Electric spoon that makes food taste saltier is now on sale in Japan

TOKYO. A battery-operated spoon that makes food taste saltier has gone on sale in Japan. The spoon, which is made of plastic and metal, is aimed at people struggling to reduce their salt intake, as researchers claim it promotes healthier eating.

Excess sodium intake is linked to increased cases of high blood pressure, strokes, and other conditions. In Japan, adults consume on average around 10g of salt a day, double the World Health Organization’s recommended intake.

The Electric Salt Spoon works by passing a weak electric current through the tip of the device to concentrate sodium ion molecules on the tongue. This magnifies the perceived saltiness of the food by one and a half times, according to its Japanese makers, Kirin.

Users can choose their preferred intensity from four different levels, said the company, which is moving more into healthcare from its traditional beer business.

Chinese defense minister accuses US of creating tensions with support for Taiwan and Philippines

Venus L Peñaflor
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Chinese defense minister accuses US of creating tensions with support for Taiwan and Philippines

SINGAPORE. China’s defense minister has criticized the United States for escalating tensions in the Asia-Pacific through its support for Taiwan and the Philippines, even as he acknowledged the importance of renewed military communications between the two nations.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun emphasized the necessity of military-to-military communications with the U.S. amidst growing regional tensions. “We will not allow anyone to bring geopolitical conflicts or any war, whether hot or cold, into our region,” Dong declared through a translator. He added, “We will not allow any country or any force to create conflict and chaos in our region.”

Dong’s remarks come against the backdrop of China’s assertive claims over the South China Sea, a crucial global shipping route. These claims have led to multiple conflicts, particularly with the Philippines, whose vessels have been rammed by Chinese ships and targeted with water cannons. Dong maintained that China’s “strategic culture is anchored in universal love and non-aggression,” but he also issued a stern warning to the Philippines, which has grown increasingly pro-American since the election of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in 2022.

Marcos Jr.’s administration, facing heightened territorial tensions with China, has sought new security alliances with various Asian and Western countries and permitted an expanded U.S. military presence at more Philippine bases under a 2014 defense agreement. Dong accused the Philippines of deliberate provocation, “emboldened by outside powers,” and asserted that China has shown significant restraint. “But there is a limit to our restraint,” he warned.

In contrast, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed America’s “ironclad” support for the Philippines on Saturday, lauding Marcos’ speech at the forum as a powerful defense of Philippine sovereignty under international law. Austin also highlighted the importance of renewed military-to-military communications with China to avoid misunderstandings and prevent incidents from escalating. “There are a number of things that can happen at sea or in the air… But our goal is to make sure that we don’t allow things to spiral out of control unnecessarily,” Austin said.

Dong, a former naval commander appointed in December following the abrupt removal of his predecessor Li Shangfu, held in-person talks with Austin on Friday. These were the first high-level defense discussions between the two countries since military contacts broke down in 2022 after then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan angered Beijing.

China views Taiwan as a breakaway province that must be reunited with the mainland, by force if necessary. While the U.S. does not have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, it is legally obligated to provide the island with defensive capabilities. Washington is Taiwan’s largest supplier of military hardware, and U.S. congressional delegations frequently visit Taiwanese leaders.

Dong reiterated that China remains open to exchanges and cooperation with the U.S. military, but noted that this requires efforts from both sides. He accused the U.S. of emboldening Taiwan’s government, which rejects Beijing’s claims over the island, by supporting incremental moves towards independence. “We will take resolute actions to curb Taiwan independence and make sure such a plot never succeeds,” Dong said, adding, “Anyone who dares to separate Taiwan from China will only end up in self-destruction.”

Zelenskyy alleges China is pressuring countries to skip upcoming Ukraine peace talks

EDGARDO HERNAL
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Zelenskyy alleges China is pressuring countries to skip upcoming Ukraine peace talks

SINGAPORE. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused China of aiding Russia in efforts to disrupt an upcoming Swiss-organized peace conference on the war in Ukraine.

Speaking at Asia’s premier security conference, the Shangri-La Dialogue, Zelenskyy alleged that China is pressuring other countries and their leaders not to attend the peace talks scheduled for mid-June. “Russia, using Chinese influence in the region, using Chinese diplomats also, does everything to disrupt the peace summit,” he stated. He expressed regret that China, a major global power, is acting as “an instrument in the hands of [Russian leader Vladimir] Putin.”

China maintains a declared neutral stance on the conflict, a position that contrasts sharply with the views of Ukraine, the United States, and most European nations. Trade between China and Russia has increased, mitigating the effects of Western sanctions on Russia. Intelligence reports from the U.S., Ukraine, and other countries indicate that Chinese parts are finding their way into Russian weaponry, though there is no direct evidence of China supplying arms to Russia.

The Swiss government had hoped for China’s participation in the peace conference, but Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning indicated on Friday that this was unlikely. Mao called for a peace conference with equal representation from all sides, including Russia, which has not been invited. “There is still a clear gap between the arrangements for the meeting and the demands of the Chinese side, as well as the general expectations of the international community,” she said, making it clear that these discrepancies hinder China’s participation.

Responding to Zelenskyy’s accusations, the Chinese foreign ministry has yet to issue a statement.

Zelenskyy criticized China’s pressure on other nations as “not only support to Russia, that is basically support of war.” He urged global defense officials to attend the peace talks in Switzerland and voiced disappointment at the reluctance of some countries to commit. Zelenskyy outlined Ukraine’s proposals for the summit, focusing on nuclear security, food security, the release of prisoners of war, and the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. “Time is running out, and the children are growing up in the Putin-land where they are taught to hate their homeland,” he emphasized.

Zelenskyy affirmed Ukraine’s openness to various proposals aimed at ending the war and establishing a sustainable peace. He stressed the importance of broad international participation to ensure Russia heeds the agreed terms. “The global majority can ensure with their involvement that what is agreed upon is truly implemented,” he said.

In a bid to bolster attendance, Zelenskyy announced plans to meet with Singapore’s prime minister and urged regional leaders to participate in the Switzerland talks. Singapore’s Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen, sharing the stage with Zelenskyy, did not confirm his country’s attendance but reiterated Singapore’s condemnation of the invasion and its support for Ukraine, including the provision of military ambulances. “We stand with you,” he said, praising Zelenskyy’s presence as a symbol of a desired rules-based order.

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun, speaking before Zelenskyy at the Shangri-La Dialogue, did not address the Switzerland meetings directly but reiterated China’s stance on promoting peace talks. “We have never done anything to fan the flames,” he asserted, denying that China had provided weapons to either side.

Following the conference in Singapore, Zelenskyy may travel to Manila to invite Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the summit. However, this visit remains uncertain due to the fluid nature of the Ukrainian president’s travel plans, according to senior Philippine officials.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, present during Zelenskyy’s address, reaffirmed U.S. commitments to Ukraine in a meeting on the sidelines of the conference. Austin commended the courage of Ukrainian troops and the resilience of its people, highlighting the global support Ukraine has received, including from Indo-Pacific nations. “Putin’s war of aggression has provided us all with a preview of a world that none of us would want,” Austin remarked, underscoring the widespread impact and concern over the conflict.

PAGASA: Dalawang bagyo posibleng pumasok ngayong Hunyo

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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PAGASA: Dalawang bagyo posibleng pumasok ngayong Hunyo

MAYNILA. Inaasahang papasok bansa ngayong Hunyo ang isa hanggang dalawang bagyo ang inaasahang papasok sa bansa ngayong Hunyo, ayon sa Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). Kung sakaling pumasok ang dalawang bagyo, papangalanan ang mga ito na “Butchoy” at “Carina.”

Sa kasalukuyan, wala pang namamataang bagyo sa Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) ngayong linggo. Gayunpaman, mayroong isang bagyo sa labas ng PAR na tinatawag na Tropical Storm Maliksi. Ayon sa PAGASA, wala namang direktang epekto ang bagyong ito sa bansa.

Bagaman walang namamataang bagyo sa PAR, patuloy na magiging maulap ang kalangitan sa buong bansa. Inaasahan din ang mga pag-ulan dala ng easterlies o hanging galing sa Pacific Ocean.

Patuloy na magbibigay ng update ang PAGASA upang mabigyan ng sapat na impormasyon ang publiko tungkol sa posibleng pagpasok ng mga bagyo ngayong buwan ng Hunyo.

Israel accepts Biden’s Gaza plan despite concerns, says Netanyahu aide

Venus L Peñaflor
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Israel accepts Biden’s Gaza plan despite concerns, says Netanyahu aide

Two far-right Israeli ministers threaten to topple the government if it accepts Biden peace plan

An aide to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that Israel has accepted a U.S.-proposed framework to wind down the Gaza war, despite significant internal opposition and ongoing negotiations.

In an interview with Britain’s Sunday Times, Ophir Falk, chief foreign policy advisor to Netanyahu, stated that President Joe Biden’s proposal was “a deal we agreed to — it’s not a good deal but we dearly want the hostages released, all of them.” Falk emphasized the necessity for further discussions, noting, “There are a lot of details to be worked out,” and reaffirmed Israel’s conditions for “the release of the hostages and the destruction of Hamas as a genocidal terrorist organisation.”

Biden’s three-phase plan, revealed last Friday, starts with a truce and the return of some hostages held by Hamas, followed by negotiations for an open-ended cessation of hostilities, and ultimately the release of all captives. The plan involves mediation by Egypt and Qatar, potentially clashing with Israel’s aim to eliminate Hamas entirely.

Despite previous failed ceasefire attempts, Biden remains optimistic. “It’s time for this war to end,” he said, indicating his belief that Israel’s war objectives have been largely met.

However, Israeli internal politics complicate the acceptance of this plan. Two far-right ministers, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, have threatened to resign and collapse the government if Netanyahu moves forward with Biden’s plan. Smotrich asserted on social media, “I will not be part of a government that agrees to the proposed outline and ends the war without destroying Hamas and returning all the hostages.” Similarly, Ben Gvir described the plan as “reckless” and “a victory for terrorism.”

Netanyahu faces a delicate balancing act within his coalition, with ex-general Benny Gantz, a centrist partner, supporting the consideration of the deal. Amidst this, Hamas has cautiously welcomed the Biden initiative. “Biden’s speech included positive ideas, but we want this to materialize within the framework of a comprehensive agreement that meets our demands,” said senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan.

International pressure on Israel is mounting, with the UN and other global powers urging both sides to accept the proposal. The ongoing conflict, sparked by Hamas attacks on October 7, has resulted in over 1,200 Israeli and more than 36,000 Palestinian deaths, with substantial casualties on both sides.

Netanyahu’s government faces significant internal dissent and external scrutiny. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has offered support for accepting the proposal, criticizing Smotrich and Ben Gvir’s stance as detrimental to national security. “This is the worst and most reckless government in the country’s history,” he said.

As the war approaches its ninth month, Netanyahu’s administration is under intense pressure to find a resolution, balancing internal political dynamics and international calls for peace.

Japan billionaire Maezawa cancels moon trip due to uncertainty over SpaceX rocket development

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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0
Japan billionaire Maezawa cancels moon trip due to uncertainty over SpaceX rocket development

TOKYO. Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa announced on Saturday the cancellation of his highly anticipated lunar mission with SpaceX due to ongoing uncertainties regarding the development timeline of the SpaceX rocket.

Maezawa initially revealed his ambitious plans for the lunar flyby voyage in 2018. By 2022, he had secured seats for eight companions for what was to be his second journey into space, following his 12-day trip to the International Space Station aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft in 2021. The moon trip was originally targeted for 2023, a goal considered overly optimistic by many space observers due to the progress of SpaceX’s Starship mega-rocket project. This mission would have marked the first private flight around the moon.

The mission organizer released a statement on Saturday, declaring the project “unfeasible” due to the lack of clear schedule certainty. “Without clear schedule certainty in the near-term, it is with a heavy heart that Maezawa made the unavoidable decision to cancel the project,” the statement read. “To all who have supported this project and looked forward to this endeavor, we sincerely appreciate it and apologize for this outcome.”

Maezawa had selected eight participants for his “dearMoon” project from over a million applicants. Among the chosen were the lead rapper of the K-pop group Big Bang, American DJ Steve Aoki, and filmmaker Brendan Hall.

On Saturday, Maezawa expressed his regrets on social media platform X, stating, “I can’t plan my future in this situation and I feel terrible making the crew members wait longer, hence [I made] the difficult decision to cancel at this point in time. I apologize to those who were excited for this project to happen.”

Maezawa explained that his contract with SpaceX, signed in 2018, was based on the assumption that a launch would be feasible by the end of 2023. “It’s a developmental project so it is what it is, but it is still uncertain as to when Starship can launch,” he added.

SpaceX’s progress has faced setbacks, with two test flights of its mega-rocket last year ending in explosions shortly after liftoff, and a third test in March resulting in the spacecraft being lost during its descent back to Earth.

Maezawa, who made his fortune in retail fashion by launching Japan’s major online fashion mall, Zozotown, and his producer became the first self-paying tourists to visit the International Space Station since 2009 with their trip in December 2021.

Japan billionaire Maezawa cancels moon trip due to uncertainty over SpaceX rocket development

Japanese Billionaire Maezawa Cancels Moon Trip Amid SpaceX Rocket Uncertainty

TOKYO (AP) — Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa announced on Saturday the cancellation of his highly anticipated lunar mission with SpaceX due to ongoing uncertainties regarding the development timeline of the SpaceX rocket.

Maezawa initially revealed his ambitious plans for the lunar flyby voyage in 2018. By 2022, he had secured seats for eight companions for what was to be his second journey into space, following his 12-day trip to the International Space Station aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft in 2021. The moon trip was originally targeted for 2023, a goal considered overly optimistic by many space observers due to the progress of SpaceX’s Starship mega-rocket project. This mission would have marked the first private flight around the moon.

The mission organizer released a statement on Saturday, declaring the project “unfeasible” due to the lack of clear schedule certainty. “Without clear schedule certainty in the near-term, it is with a heavy heart that Maezawa made the unavoidable decision to cancel the project,” the statement read. “To all who have supported this project and looked forward to this endeavor, we sincerely appreciate it and apologize for this outcome.”

Maezawa had selected eight participants for his “dearMoon” project from over a million applicants. Among the chosen were the lead rapper of the K-pop group Big Bang, American DJ Steve Aoki, and filmmaker Brendan Hall.

On Saturday, Maezawa expressed his regrets on social media platform X, stating, “I can’t plan my future in this situation and I feel terrible making the crew members wait longer, hence [I made] the difficult decision to cancel at this point in time. I apologize to those who were excited for this project to happen.”

Maezawa explained that his contract with SpaceX, signed in 2018, was based on the assumption that a launch would be feasible by the end of 2023. “It’s a developmental project so it is what it is, but it is still uncertain as to when Starship can launch,” he added.

SpaceX’s progress has faced setbacks, with two test flights of its mega-rocket last year ending in explosions shortly after liftoff, and a third test in March resulting in the spacecraft being lost during its descent back to Earth.

Maezawa, who made his fortune in retail fashion by launching Japan’s major online fashion mall, Zozotown, and his producer became the first self-paying tourists to visit the International Space Station since 2009 with their trip in December 2021.

SWS: 50% ng mga Pinoy pabor sa divorce

Venus L Peñaflor
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SWS: 50% ng mga Pinoy pabor sa divorce

Suportado ng kalahati ng mga Pinoy adult ang legalisasyon ng diborsyo sa bansa, ayon sa pinakabagong survey ng Social Weather Station (SWS). Sa survey na isinagawa noong Marso 21 hanggang 25, tinanong ang 1,500 respondents kung dapat bang payagan ang mga matagal nang hiwalay na mag-asawa na mag-diborsyo at muling magpakasal. Lumabas na 50 porsyento ang pabor, 31 porsyento ang tutol, at 17 porsyento ang undecided.

Ang mga respondent ay binubuo ng higit sa 50% na mga lalaki at 50% na mga babae, at lahat ay kasal. Nakapagtala ng +40 na net agreement mula sa mga lalaking nais na maisalegal ang diborsyo, +39 mula sa mga babaeng may live-in partners, +23 sa mga balo at hiwalay na babae, +20 sa mga unmarried men, +18 sa mga unmarried women, +12 sa mga widowed/separated men, +12 sa mga married women, at +10 sa mga married men.

Ayon sa survey, ang Metro Manila ang may pinakamataas na net agreement na +40 (very strong), Balance Luzon na +20 (moderately strong), Visayas na +20 (moderately strong), at Mindanao na +2 (neutral).

Matindi rin ang suporta sa diborsyo ng iba’t ibang relihiyon sa bansa tulad ng ibang Christians na +21 (moderately strong), Catholics na +20 (moderately strong), Muslims na +11 (moderately strong), at Iglesia ni Cristo na -10 (moderately weak).

Mahigit 600 residente mula sa Balance Luzon (mga lugar sa Luzon na nasa labas ng Mega Manila) ang natanong tungkol sa usapin ng diborsyo, habang tig-300 naman mula sa Metro Manila, Visayas, at Mindanao.

U.S. refocuses on China risks as Zelenskiy arrives at Asia defense summit

Venus L Peñaflor
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U.S. refocuses on China risks as Zelenskiy arrives at Asia defense summit

SINGAPORE. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the growing threat from China in the Asia-Pacific region on Saturday, addressing concerns that U.S. involvement in Ukraine and Gaza conflicts might be diverting attention from America’s security commitments in Asia.

Speaking at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue, Austin assured delegates that the Indo-Pacific remains the United States’ priority despite ongoing conflicts in other regions. “Despite these historic clashes in Europe and the Middle East, the Indo-Pacific has remained our priority theatre of operations,” Austin stated. “The United States can be secure only if Asia is secure.”

Shortly after Austin’s speech, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy arrived in Singapore. He is set to address the security forum on Sunday to garner support for a peace summit planned for June 15-16 in Switzerland. In a message on social media platform X, Zelenskiy outlined his intent to hold meetings with several key figures, including Singapore’s President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta, and Austin.

Austin’s meeting with Chinese counterpart Dong Jun on the sidelines of the conference aimed to ease tensions over issues ranging from Taiwan to China’s military activities in the South China Sea. The U.S. focus on aiding Ukraine and supporting Israel has raised concerns about a potential shift away from the Indo-Pacific region.

Austin underscored the importance of alliances and peaceful dispute resolutions in the region. “The United States has long maintained our presence in this region,” he said, emphasizing that conflicts should be resolved through dialogue, not coercion. He also criticized China, stating, “Certainly not through so-called punishment.”

In response, Chinese Lieutenant General Jing Jianfeng accused the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy of creating division and provoking confrontation. “It only serves the selfish geopolitical interests of the U.S. and runs counter to the trend of history and the shared aspirations of regional countries for peace, development, and win-win cooperation,” Jing stated.

Recent Chinese military activities, such as “punishment” drills around Taiwan, have heightened concerns. After Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te took office, China staged mock attacks and sent heavily armed warplanes in the region.

Gaza Proposal and Regional Reactions

Indonesia’s president-elect, Prabowo Subianto, offered to send peacekeeping troops to Gaza to maintain a ceasefire, endorsing U.S. President Joe Biden’s three-phase ceasefire proposal for the region. Prabowo stated, “We are prepared to contribute significant peacekeeping forces to maintain and monitor this prospective ceasefire as well as providing protection and security to all parties and to all sides.”

Prabowo, currently Indonesia’s defense minister, will assume the presidency of the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation in October.

In his speech, Austin also addressed the U.S.’s commitment to aiding Ukraine and Israel. Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, the U.S. has provided tens of billions of dollars in military aid to Ukraine, with an additional $61 billion appropriated last month. Concurrently, the U.S. continues to support Israel, with $26 billion allocated in the same funding bill.

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik, during another session, declined to comment on potential changes to South Korea’s arms export laws, which currently prohibit arms exports to nations in conflict. South Korea has, however, transferred artillery ammunition to the U.S. and signed significant arms deals with Poland, both of which support Ukraine.

About $8 billion of U.S. funding is allocated for countering China in the Indo-Pacific as part of the recent supplemental funding bill.

Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. condemned aggressive actions in the South China Sea, where China has increased its coastguard presence. The Philippines, with strong U.S. ties and close proximity to China, is central to the U.S.-China power struggle. Austin reaffirmed the U.S.’s mutual defense treaty with Manila, describing the harassment faced by the Philippines as dangerous and stressing the need to prevent tensions from escalating.

Jing, the Chinese general, critiqued these alliances, arguing they contribute to regional instability. “It is natural for neighbors to bicker sometimes, but we need to resolve disagreements through dialogue and consultation rather than inviting wolves into our house and playing with fire,” he said.

As President Joe Biden seeks re-election in November against former President Donald Trump, his administration continues to emphasize the U.S.’s role in maintaining security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says war with China neither imminent nor unavoidable, stressing need for talks

EDGARDO HERNAL
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0
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says war with China neither imminent nor unavoidable, stressing need for talks

SINGAPORE. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized that war with China is neither imminent nor unavoidable during a speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday. Despite escalating tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, Austin highlighted the importance of renewed dialogue to avoid “miscalculations and misunderstandings.”

Austin’s remarks followed his first in-person meeting with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun since 2022, when military contacts were severed after then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan. The hour-long meeting took place on the sidelines of the forum, focusing on the need to maintain open communication channels.

“While we didn’t reach any new agreements, the most important thing is that we’re talking,” Austin said. “As long as we’re talking, we’re able to identify issues that are troublesome and ensure there are guardrails to prevent misperceptions and miscalculations.”

The Shangri-La Dialogue also saw participation from Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who stressed the potential consequences of Chinese confrontations with Filipino vessels in the South China Sea. Marcos stated that such actions could be close to “an act of war,” expecting treaty partners, including the U.S., to uphold similar standards.

Austin reaffirmed the U.S.’s commitment to the Philippines, calling their mutual defense treaty “ironclad.” However, he avoided speculating on hypothetical scenarios involving Filipino casualties in confrontations with China, emphasizing that the U.S. aims to prevent such incidents from spiraling out of control.

Chinese Lieutenant General Jing Jianfeng responded by accusing the U.S. of creating division through its Indo-Pacific strategy, which he said serves “selfish geopolitical interests.”

Additionally, Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto offered peacekeeping troops for Gaza to support a ceasefire, endorsing U.S. President Joe Biden’s three-phase ceasefire proposal for the region.

Austin’s comments come amid increased Chinese military activities, including “punishment” drills around Taiwan and confrontations in the South China Sea. Australia and Japan also expressed concerns about China’s assertiveness in the region, citing incidents involving Chinese military actions against their vessels and aircraft.

Austin dismissed Chinese claims that the U.S. is forming an Asian version of NATO. He clarified that the U.S. is collaborating with “like-minded countries with similar values” and reiterated that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was a decision made by President Vladimir Putin.

“War or a fight with China is neither imminent nor unavoidable,” Austin asserted. “Leaders of great power nations need to continue to work together to reduce the opportunities for miscalculation and misunderstandings.”

The dialogue also featured comments from Indonesian academic Dewi Fortuna Anwar, who voiced concerns about the region’s stability. She questioned whether the U.S. would allow China’s assertive posture to grow uncontested if the main emphasis was on dialogue.

Austin assured that the U.S. would continue to support the rights of nations in the region and ensure access to their exclusive economic zones. “Every conversation is not going to be a happy conversation, but it is important that we continue to talk to each other. And it is important that we continue to support our allies and partners on their interests as well,” he concluded.

DepEd dumepensa sa bagong awards system: Nagbawas ng pressure at kompetisyon sa mga mag-aaral

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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0
DepEd dumepensa sa bagong awards system: Nagbawas ng pressure at kompetisyon sa mga mag-aaral

MAYNILA. Iginiit ng Department of Education (DepEd) na ang bagong awards at recognition system na ipinatutupad sa mga paaralan ay nag-aalis ng “pressure” at kompetisyon sa mga mag-aaral, at tinutulungan silang tutukan ang sarili nilang academic excellence.

Ito ay kasunod ng pag-viral ng isang post sa social media na tila tumataas ang bilang ng mga estudyanteng nabibigyan ng academic awards, habang ang Pilipinas ay nananatiling mahina sa 2023 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA).

“Iba naman ang parameters na ginagamit ng PISA when it comes to determining the scores of the countries. Iba rin naman ang parameters ang ginagamit natin for the awards and recognition sa schools based on achievements. So hindi natin pwede i-compare iyong results ng ating classroom performances with that of international large-scale assessments,” ayon kay DepEd Assistant Secretary Francis Bringas.

Sa kasalukuyang awards system na ipinatutupad mula nang magsimula ang K to 12 program, inalis na ang mga titulong “valedictorian”, “salutatorian” at “honorary mentions” na limitado lamang sa 10 estudyante sa klase o batch. Ang mga estudyanteng may average grade na 90 hanggang 94 ay awtomatikong nabibigyan ng “with honors” award, “with high honors” para sa 95 hanggang 97, at “with highest honors” para sa mga estudyanteng nakaabot sa 98 hanggang 100 average grade.

“Kapag mayroon tayong valedictorian at salutatorian, the learners are competing with other learners, but with the new grading system, or awards system you are competing with yourself and kung nami-meet mo ang standard then you will be recognized,” ayon pa rin kay Bringas. “Iyong ganitong awards system it really highly encourages our learners to strive. It is more inclusive dahil hindi na siya nagiging limited to just the top 10 in the class,” dagdag niya.

Samantala, naniniwala naman ang Teachers Dignity Coalition (TDC) na kailangang repasuhin ang kasalukuyang awarding system. Sinabi ni TDC Chairperson Benjo Basas na habang ang awarding mechanism ay naghihikayat sa mga estudyante na tutukan ang kanilang pansariling academic excellence, “there is no uniformity or solid standard in the giving of grades.”

“Ang ating mga teacher at ang ating mga school ay binababa ang standard nila o di kaya ay nagbibigay ng kaunting kunsiderasyon doon sa mga bata kasi siyempre kapag iyong bata nakikita po na nagsisikap tapos parang deserving naman siya na i-reward,” ani Basas.

“Ang grades ng bata hindi lang naman nanggagaling sa exam, hindi lang naman iyan galing sa paper and pencil test, mayroon din naman diyang subjective. Halimbawa, iyong performance ng mga bata sa pagsusulat, iyong physical performance tulad ng pag-arte, at iba pa,” dagdag ni Basas. “Ang problema dito, kada isang lokalidad, isang eskwelahan maaaring mag-iba. Nagba-vary po ang appreciation ng ating teacher.”

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