Friday, August 7, 2026


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Israel orders the evacuation of a section within Gaza’s humanitarian zone

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip. The Israeli military issued an evacuation order on Monday for a section of the Gaza Strip designated as a humanitarian zone, citing plans for a military operation against Hamas militants entrenched in the area.

In response, thousands of Palestinians, including many with children and essential belongings, began their exodus from the eastern part of the Muwasi humanitarian zone in the southern Gaza Strip. The zone, which stretches about 14 kilometers (8.6 miles) along the Mediterranean, has become a refuge for approximately 1.8 million Palestinians. The conditions there are dire, with tent camps lacking sanitation and medical facilities, and limited access to aid. “We do not know where we are walking,” said Kholoud Al Dadas, a displaced resident. “This is our seventh or eighth time we have been displaced. While we were sleeping in our homes, they started shooting at us, bombing from everywhere.” Moments later, Al Dadas collapsed from exhaustion, and bystanders rushed to help.

The Israeli military’s operation targets Hamas militants who have reportedly used the area to launch rockets into Israel. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have been conducting strikes in central and southern Gaza, with one recent strike resulting in the death of one person and injuries to three outside the Al Aqsa hospital in Deir-Al-Balah. Additionally, at least 15 people, including four women and six children, were killed in strikes in Khan Younis, according to hospital officials and an Associated Press journalist.

The evacuation order comes amid ongoing cease-fire negotiations, with U.S. and Israeli officials optimistic about reaching an agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced that a negotiating team will continue talks on Thursday. Netanyahu, who departed for the U.S. on Monday, is set to meet with President Joe Biden and address Congress. Netanyahu emphasized the enduring alliance between Israel and the U.S.: “Our enemies must know that Israel and the United States stand together tomorrow and always.”

Compounding the humanitarian crisis, the World Health Organization recently reported traces of the polio virus in Gaza’s sewage system. The virus’s presence has raised concerns about deteriorating water and sanitation conditions. The Israeli military has announced plans to vaccinate soldiers and collaborate with organizations to provide vaccines for Palestinians.

In a separate incident, Israeli police reported the death of a Canadian citizen near the Gaza border. The man, who reportedly threatened security forces with a knife, was shot and killed by Israeli forces. The attack occurred near Netiv HaAsara, a town that had previously been targeted during the ongoing conflict.

The war in Gaza, ignited by an attack from Hamas militants on southern Israel on October 7, has resulted in over 38,900 deaths, including both combatants and civilians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The conflict, which has also seen the kidnapping of about 250 hostages, has spurred calls for a cease-fire and increased international involvement to address the escalating crisis.

Movie Review: “Twisters” storms onto screens with a new generation of disaster thrills

In the realm of disaster films, our relationship is often a mix of admiration and skepticism. The latest entry, “Twisters,” embodies this paradox perfectly. The film, hitting theaters on Thursday, has sparked discussion with its striking promotional poster featuring actors Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, and Anthony Ramos facing a fiery cyclone swirling with debris. While some question why the stars aren’t reacting to the tempest, others dismiss such queries, suggesting that if you’re focused on the logic of a flaming tornado, this film might not be for you.

This mix of disbelief and enthusiasm seems to be a fundamental aspect of disaster movies, which often thrive on audacious premises. Directed by Lee Isaac Chung, known for the acclaimed “Minari,” “Twisters” fits comfortably into this tradition, embracing its inherent absurdity with gusto.

The film is a modern homage to Jan de Bont’s 1996 classic “Twister,” which remains a nostalgic favorite for many. Its memorable lines and the loss of stars like Philip Seymour Hoffman and Bill Paxton have only amplified its charm. The new film introduces fresh faces and a new story but can’t help but reference its predecessor with nods that might be seen as either affectionate or distracting.

The plot centers on Kate (Daisy Edgar-Jones), whose earlier attempt to control a tornado with science ended in tragedy. Five years later, she’s drawn back to Tornado Alley by her old friend Javi (Anthony Ramos) for a new study. The screenplay, penned by Mark L. Smith (“The Revenant”) with a story credit to Joseph Kosinski, presents new characters while acknowledging the legacy of the original. Despite this, the film’s frequent references to “Twister” might overshadow its own identity. Lines like “I’m not back” and similarities to Carey Elwes’ iconic look might leave some viewers feeling nostalgic but questioning the film’s originality.

Chung’s direction seeks to ground the film’s chaos in a realistic setting, featuring regionally appropriate styles and music. The supporting cast, including Sasha Lane and Katy O’Brian, is well-chosen, and the chemistry between leads Powell and Edgar-Jones is palpable. Their performances elevate the film, even as it tackles complex concepts like sodium polyacrylate.

It’s difficult to predict how “Twisters” will be remembered decades from now. Will it become a beloved classic like its predecessor, or will it be seen as a product of its time? For now, it may not seem poised for timeless status, but that doesn’t diminish its current entertainment value.

“Twisters,” a Universal Pictures release, is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association for “intense action and peril, injury images, some language.” The film runs for 122 minutes and is currently rated two and a half stars out of four.

Paris uses AI, jets, and police squadrons for Olympic Security, raising concerns among critics

PARIS. As Paris prepares to host the Olympics starting this Friday, the city is witnessing an unprecedented security operation aimed at ensuring the safety of athletes and visitors. A year ago, Tony Estanguet, head of the Paris Olympics, confidently declared that France’s capital would be “the safest place in the world” during the Games. With just days before the opening, this ambitious claim is taking shape with heavy police presence, fighter jets, and advanced surveillance technology.

The French capital’s security strategy is being driven by a range of challenges, including recent extremist attacks and heightened international tensions related to conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Unlike previous Olympic host cities such as Rio de Janeiro and London, Paris has opted to stage many events within its bustling city center and along the River Seine, complicating the security landscape.

In response, Paris has mobilized up to 45,000 police officers and gendarmes, supported by an additional 10,000 soldiers. This marks the establishment of the largest military camp in Paris since World War II, designed to ensure rapid response to any threats. The city is also patrolled by armed military units, though they lack arrest powers and can only detain suspects until police arrive.

General Éric Chasboeuf of the counter-terror military force, Sentinelle, remarked on the public’s evolving perception: “At the beginning, it was very strange for them to see us and they were always avoiding our presence, making a detour. Now, it’s in the landscape.”

Paris skies will be monitored by Rafale fighter jets, AWACS surveillance flights, and Reaper drones. A no-fly zone extending 150 kilometers (93 miles) around the city will be enforced during the opening ceremony. Additionally, AI-equipped cameras will aid in identifying potential security threats, including abandoned items and crowd surges.

The Olympic security measures also involve international cooperation, with over 40 countries contributing at least 1,900 police reinforcements. The recent assassination attempt on former U.S. President Donald Trump underscored the risk of lone-wolf attacks, prompting heightened vigilance.

General Philippe Pourqué noted, “No one can guarantee that there won’t be mistakes. There, however, it was quite glaring,” referencing the Trump incident as a stark reminder of security vulnerabilities.

The French government has conducted extensive background checks on ticket holders and personnel, blocking over 3,900 individuals from accessing the Games due to security concerns. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin emphasized vigilance towards certain nationalities but refrained from directly linking exclusions to geopolitical conflicts.

Critics, however, are raising concerns about the long-term impact of such extensive security measures. The group Saccage 2024 has denounced the “repressive arsenal” of surveillance technology, questioning whether the security benefits of the Games justify potential infringements on privacy and freedoms.

As the opening ceremony approaches, Paris remains under intense scrutiny, balancing the need for robust security with the rights and freedoms of its residents.

Moon festivals, a moon-themed film, and a full moon celebrate 55 years since Apollo 11 landing

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. The 55th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, celebrated on July 20, was highlighted by a full moon and a series of commemorative events honoring Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins.

In San Diego, Aldrin, 94, the last surviving Apollo 11 astronaut, headlined a gala at the Air and Space Museum. Astronaut Charlie Duke, who served as the voice inside Mission Control during the historic landing, joined Aldrin for the occasion. Museum President Jim Kidrick expressed the significance of the event, stating, “55 years to the day of one of the most historic moments in not only the history of America but in the history of the world.”

For those unable to attend the San Diego gala or visit Cape Canaveral and Houston, other celebrations included the film “Fly Me to the Moon,” starring Scarlett Johansson, which provided a light-hearted retrospective on the mission. Additionally, the Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum offered a special website dedicated to Apollo 11.

The Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral hosted a moon fest, celebrating just a few miles from where the Saturn V rocket launched the Apollo 11 mission. Houston’s Johnson Space Center also joined the festivities. On July 20, 1969, Armstrong and Aldrin made history by landing on the Moon’s Sea of Tranquility. Armstrong’s iconic words, “Houston, Tranquility Base here. The Eagle has landed,” were commemorated by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, who reflected, “No moment united the country quite like when the Eagle landed, as all of planet Earth watched from below.”

Armstrong’s famous declaration, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” was celebrated at the Armstrong Air and Space Museum in Wapakoneta, Ohio. The museum held “Run to the Moon” races, model rocket launches, and wind tunnel demonstrations. The John and Annie Glenn Museum, located 150 miles away, also opened its doors for visitors.

Aldrin’s remark, “Magnificent desolation,” upon stepping onto the lunar surface was remembered, and Armstrong’s spacesuit, restored for the 50th anniversary in 2019, was on display at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. The collection also featured the Apollo 11 return capsule, while Aldrin’s and Collins’ suits were in storage.

The Apollo 11 capsule, named Columbia, splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on July 24, 1969. It was recovered by the USS Hornet, now a museum in Alameda, California, which hosted a splashdown party with some original recovery crew members.

Looking ahead, NASA’s Artemis program aims to send astronauts around the Moon next year. The Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, named after Apollo’s twin sister in Greek mythology, arrived at Kennedy Space Center in July and is scheduled for its inaugural flight in September 2025. This mission will pave the way for future moon landings, with the first crewed lunar landing expected no earlier than 2026.

In San Diego, Buzz Aldrin, 94, the last surviving Apollo 11 astronaut, headlined a gala at the Air and Space Museum.

Vatican archives reveal new details on the controversial Legion of Christ scandal

VATICAN CITY. The recently declassified archives from Pope Pius XII’s papacy have not only illuminated the debate over the World War II-era pope’s response to the Holocaust but have also shed new light on the long-standing scandal involving the Legionaries of Christ.

For decades, the Vatican had faced criticism for its delayed response to the misconduct of the Legion’s founder, Rev. Marciel Maciel. The newly available documents from Pius XII’s era, covering his papacy from 1939 to 1958, reveal further insights into the Vatican’s internal struggle with Maciel, who was accused of numerous offenses including drug use, financial mismanagement, and the sexual abuse of seminarians.

Despite abundant evidence of Maciel’s misconduct that had reached the Holy See in the 1940s and 1950s, it took over 50 years for the Vatican to impose sanctions on him. The recent archives confirm that Pius XII’s Vatican took initial steps to address Maciel’s transgressions, only to have those measures undermined by the subsequent papal transition.

Key documents reveal that in 1956, the Vatican’s Congregation for Religious, which oversaw the Legion, was preparing to take severe action against Maciel. A draft memo from October 1, 1956, authored by Rev. Giovanni Battista Scapinelli, indicates that the Vatican considered barring Maciel from contact with seminarians as part of a broader sanction. The memo, published in Sunday’s Corriere della Sera cultural supplement La Lettura, demonstrates that by 1956, some officials were ready to impose strict penalties on Maciel for his alleged abuses.

Scapinelli’s original draft called for Maciel to be prohibited from interacting with seminarians until he received treatment for his morphine addiction. The draft memo included an ultimatum: “Either you go get treated or you will remain suspended a divinis.” However, subsequent revisions of the memo, including a final version dated October 2, 1956, omitted the call for barring Maciel from seminarians and focused solely on his medical treatment.

The documents also highlight the influence of Cardinal Giuseppe Pizzardo, a high-ranking figure in the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, who was a significant protector of Maciel. This protection, along with other interventions, appears to have stymied further action against Maciel.

Scapinelli’s notes suggest that Pius XII was aware of the situation and had endorsed Maciel’s temporary removal as the Legion’s superior. In September 1956, the Congregation for Religious submitted a comprehensive file on Maciel to Pius XII, accompanied by concerns about the Legion’s approval status.

Following Pius XII’s death in October 1958, the Vatican experienced a period of upheaval that allowed Maciel’s supporters to regain influence. By early 1959, Maciel was reinstated as the Legion’s superior. The Legion was later recognized as a pontifical religious order, despite the ongoing controversies.

Maciel passed away in 2008, and the Legionaries of Christ later admitted some of his wrongdoing. The Vatican took over the Legion in 2010, initiating a process of reform and purification in response to the scandal.

Walang pasok sa Hulyo 24 dahil sa bagyo at habagat

MAYNILA. Nagdeklara ng kanselasyon ng klase para sa Lunes, Hulyo 24, 2024 sa ilang lugar dahil sa patuloy na epekto ng Severe Tropical Storm Carina at Southwest Monsoon o Habagat.

Narito ang mga lugar na apektado:

  • Malabon City – Lahat ng antas, pampubliko at pribado
  • Quezon City – Lahat ng antas, pribadong paaralan; pati na ang Brigada Eskwela at mga pampublikong paaralan dahil sa SONA 2024
  • Lalawigan ng Bataan – Lahat ng antas, pampubliko at pribado
  • Cavite – Lahat ng antas, pampubliko at pribado

Para sa mga pinakabagong balita at updates, i-refresh ang pahinang ito.

China and Philippines reach provisional agreement on South China Sea resupply missions

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MANILA. The Philippines and China have reached a “provisional arrangement” concerning resupply missions to a beached Philippine naval vessel in the South China Sea, according to a statement from Manila’s Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) released on Sunday.

The DFA’s announcement follows “frank and constructive discussions” held earlier this month through the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism. While specifics of the arrangement for resupplying the Sierra Madre at Second Thomas Shoal were not disclosed, the DFA emphasized that both parties recognize the importance of de-escalating tensions and managing disputes through dialogue. The agreement is designed to ensure that neither side’s stance on South China Sea issues is adversely affected.

The Chinese embassy in Manila did not respond to a request for comment over the weekend.

The Philippines deliberately grounded the Sierra Madre at Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 to assert its claims over the contested waters, maintaining a small contingent of soldiers on board since then. Despite a recent offer of assistance from the United States, Philippine officials confirmed that resupply missions will be conducted independently.

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated on Friday that the U.S. would “do what is necessary” to support its treaty ally in resupplying the Sierra Madre. However, Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano reiterated that the resupply operations will be “a pure Philippine operation” and that there is currently no need for direct U.S. military involvement.

Tensions in the South China Sea have escalated over the past year, with recent incidents including a Filipino soldier losing a finger in what Manila described as an “intentional high-speed ramming” by the China Coast Guard.

The Philippine military’s spokesperson also confirmed that the Philippines will “exhaust all means before seeking foreign intervention” for its resupply efforts. The 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty between the U.S. and the Philippines, which includes provisions for defense support in case of an armed attack, remains in effect, with U.S. officials reaffirming their “ironclad” commitment to aiding the Philippines.

China’s extensive claims over the South China Sea overlap with those of the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei. A Hague-based tribunal in 2016 ruled that China’s claims have no legal basis, a decision Beijing continues to reject.

Trump campaign shifts strategy to tackle Kamala Harris as Democratic nominee

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WASHINGTON. With President Joe Biden’s abrupt withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race and endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor, former President Donald Trump’s campaign is rapidly adjusting its strategy to confront a new challenger. Trump, confident in his ability to defeat Harris, has already outlined his campaign’s approach to counter her potential candidacy.

In an interview with CNN, Trump asserted, “Harris will be easier to beat than Joe Biden would have been,” reflecting his campaign’s belief that Harris presents a less formidable opponent. Trump’s campaign had reportedly been preparing for the possibility of facing Harris if she emerged as the Democratic nominee.

The Trump campaign plans to tightly associate Harris with Biden’s policies, particularly criticizing his immigration stance, which Republicans argue has led to a surge in illegal crossings at the southern border. Additionally, Trump’s campaign will focus on economic issues, leveraging public discontent over high food prices, fuel costs, and elevated interest rates that have impacted home affordability.

“She’s the co-pilot of the Biden vision,” a Trump adviser, who requested anonymity, said during last week’s Republican National Convention. “If they want to switch to Biden 2.0 and have ‘Cackling’ Kamala at the top of the ticket, we’re good either way,” the adviser added, using a derogatory term for Harris’s laugh that the campaign has adopted.

Make America Great Again Inc, a super PAC supporting Trump, announced it would pivot its advertising strategy. The group will replace previously planned anti-Biden ads in battleground states like Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, and Pennsylvania with new ads targeting Harris. One such ad accuses Harris of concealing Biden’s incapacity and blames her for issues like “a border invasion, runaway inflation, [and] the American Dream dead.”

At a rally in Michigan on Saturday, Trump previewed the type of rhetoric he plans to use against Harris. “I call her laughing Kamala. You ever watch a laugh? She’s crazy. You can tell a lot by a laugh. She’s crazy. She’s nuts,” Trump said.

The Democratic Party is still determining its next steps, and Harris’s nomination is not yet assured despite Biden’s endorsement. Her potential candidacy introduces new dynamics to the race, including a significant generational and cultural contrast with Trump. As a 59-year-old Black and Asian-American woman, Harris represents a shift from Biden’s presidency and may energize younger voters and people of color who were less mobilized under Biden.

Rodell Mollineau, a Democratic strategist, noted that Harris’s background as a former prosecutor and California Attorney General could help her effectively challenge Trump. “She would be able to mount a more energetic campaign with excitement from younger voters and people of color,” Mollineau said.

Republican strategist Chip Felkel warned that the Trump campaign should not underestimate Harris’s appeal, noting that she could attract different voter segments than Biden. Recent polls, including a July 15-16 Reuters/Ipsos survey, show Harris and Trump tied at 44% in a hypothetical matchup.

As the Trump campaign prepares for a potential Harris candidacy, MAGA Inc. CEO Taylor Budowich highlighted their readiness for various Democratic outcomes. “MAGA Inc is prepared for all outcomes of a Democrat Party who has only brought chaos and failure,” Budowich said.

Political consultant Jeanette Hoffman suggested that while Harris brings new contrasts to the race, her close association with Biden could be a disadvantage. “Harris doesn’t represent the change America is looking for,” Hoffman said.

Biden drops out of 2024 race after debate fallout, endorses Harris for nomination

WASHINGTON. President Joe Biden has withdrawn from the 2024 presidential race following a poorly received debate performance that intensified concerns about his age and fitness for office. This decision, made less than four months before the election, significantly shifts the dynamics of what has been deemed one of the most pivotal campaigns in recent history.

In an announcement posted on his X account, Biden expressed his belief that stepping down was in the best interest of his party and the nation. “It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term,” Biden wrote.

Biden quickly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor, urging the Democratic Party to unite behind her. “Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year,” Biden said in another post on X. “Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump.”

Harris, 59, responded to Biden’s endorsement with a statement praising his “selfless and patriotic act” and vowing to secure the nomination and unite the country. “I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party — and unite our nation — to defeat Donald Trump and his extreme Project 2025 agenda,” Harris said.

The timing of Biden’s exit is unprecedented; no major party’s presumptive nominee has ever withdrawn so close to the election. The closest parallel is President Lyndon Johnson’s decision in March 1968 not to seek another term amid the Vietnam War, though Biden’s exit comes after he won the majority of delegates in the primaries.

Harris now faces the urgent task of consolidating support from delegates, selecting a running mate, and reconfiguring the Biden campaign’s extensive political infrastructure to support her candidacy. Early indications suggest strong backing, with endorsements from the Congressional Black Caucus and prominent figures like former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Despite this support, former President Barack Obama has yet to endorse Harris, although he commended Biden’s decision to step down. “I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges,” Obama said.

Biden’s announcement follows his recent diagnosis with COVID-19, which has kept him isolated at his Delaware beach house. Biden plans to address the nation later this week to provide further details about his decision.

As the Democratic Party moves forward, it must quickly address the nomination process and rally voters behind Harris. Meanwhile, Trump, who had focused much of his campaign against Biden, will need to pivot towards his new opponent.

Biden’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in his 52-year political career. Despite his campaign’s challenges and his personal health issues, Biden’s decision underscores the intense pressure and scrutiny facing candidates in this critical election cycle.

As Biden’s term continues, he will still host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House this week and remains focused on fulfilling his presidential duties. His decision has prompted varied reactions, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praising Biden’s patriotism and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries highlighting his accomplishments.

Trump, reacting to the news, criticized Biden’s ability to serve and expressed his readiness to address the issues he attributes to Biden’s presidency.

As the 2024 election nears, the political landscape remains in flux, with Harris now positioned as the Democratic front-runner and the party working to consolidate its efforts against a formidable Republican challenger.

HR manager, pinatay ng riding-in-tandem sa Cavite

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GEN. TRIAS CITY, Cavite. Patay ang isang 36-taong-gulang na HR manager ng isang golf club at residential estate matapos barilin sa ulo ng riding-in-tandem habang naglalakad kamakalawa ng hapon.

Dead-on-arrival sa ospital ang biktimang si Josephine Agoncillo Sasi, na nagtatrabaho bilang HR manager sa Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club and Residential Estates.

Ayon sa inisyal na pagsisiyasat, nangyari ang insidente bandang 5:15 ng hapon sa harap ng gate ng Metro South Subdivision sa Governors Drive, Brgy. Manggahan. Ang biktima ay kakababa lamang mula sa kanilang shuttle service at naglalakad patungo sa subdivision nang biglang dumating ang mga suspek. Binaril siya sa ulo ng backrider habang ang driver ng motorsiklo ay nakasuot ng pula at itim na jacket.

Agad na bumulagta si Sasi matapos ang pamamaril, habang mabilis na tumakas ang mga suspek na parehong naka-helmet. Isa sa mga suspek, na nakasuot ng itim na jacket, ang siyang bumaril sa biktima.

Ayon kay PLt.Col. Jaymar Marbella, hepe ng General Trias Police, pinapatutukan niya ang kaso at inutusan ang kanyang mga tauhan para sa follow-up operation. Mayroon na umanong motibo sa krimen ngunit hindi pa ito maaaring ihayag.

Kasalukuyan ding kinakalap ng mga awtoridad ang footage mula sa CCTV sa lugar upang matukoy ang pagkakakilanlan ng mga salarin.