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Kanlaon pumutok na, nagbuga ng kilometrong taas ng usok

BACOLOD CITY. Pumutok na ang Bulkang Kanlaon at naglabas ng kilometrong taas ng usok sa kalangitan kagabi, Hunyo 3. Dahil dito, naglabas ng Alert Level 1 ang Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

Kumpirmado ng Phivolcs na naganap ang steam-driven o phreatic eruption sa Kanlaon bandang 7:05 p.m. “Ito ay isang steam-driven o phreatic eruption,” pahayag ng Phivolcs.

Pinananatili ng Phivolcs ang Alert Level 1 upang ipakita ang low level unrest, ngunit nagbigay sila ng paalala na maging mapagmatyag. “Bagaman Alert Level 1 pa rin, mahalaga ang pagiging mapagmatyag,” dagdag ng ahensya.

Ang Bulkang Kanlaon, isa sa mga aktibong bulkan sa bansa, ay matatagpuan sa hangganan ng Negros Occidental at Negros Oriental.

Boeing’s first astronaut flight cancelled at last minute in latest setback

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. Boeing’s first astronaut flight faced another setback as last-minute computer trouble forced the cancellation of Saturday’s launch attempt.

Two NASA astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, were strapped into the company’s Starliner capsule when the countdown was halted automatically by the computer system at 3 minutes and 50 seconds before liftoff. The swift decision left no time to address the issue, resulting in the launch being called off.

Technicians quickly responded to help Wilmore and Williams exit the capsule atop the fully fueled Atlas V rocket at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Within an hour of the abort, the hatch was reopened.

Tory Bruno, CEO of United Launch Alliance, stated that the team cannot troubleshoot the problem until the rocket is drained of all its fuel. He explained that one of the three redundant computers, located near the rocket at the pad, was sluggish. All three computers must function properly for the launch to proceed.

Depending on the extent of the necessary fixes, the next launch attempt could be as early as Wednesday. If it does not occur within the coming week, the launch would be delayed until mid-June to move the rocket off the pad and replace its batteries.

“This is the business that we’re in,” said Boeing’s Mark Nappi. “Everything’s got to work perfectly.”

This marks the second launch attempt after the first try on May 6 was delayed for leak checks and rocket repairs. NASA is seeking a backup to SpaceX, which has been flying astronauts since 2020. Boeing was initially scheduled to launch its first crew around the same time as SpaceX, but a series of issues, including severe software problems during its first unmanned test flight in 2019, delayed progress.

A redo in 2022 performed better, but further delays were caused by parachute issues and a small helium leak in the capsule’s propulsion system. Additional valve trouble emerged just two hours before Saturday’s planned liftoff, but the team managed to use a backup circuit to get the ground-equipment valves working to top off the fuel for the rocket’s upper stage. Despite these efforts, the computer system known as the ground launch sequencer ultimately ended the launch attempt.

“Of course, this is emotionally disappointing,” NASA astronaut Mike Fincke, the backup pilot, said from neighboring Kennedy Space Center shortly after the countdown was halted. He acknowledged that delays are part of spaceflight, adding, “We’re going to have a great launch in our future.”

Netanyahu faces crucial decision: Truce or government survival?

JERUSALEM. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel is facing a critical juncture as he must choose between accepting a truce proposal or risking the stability of his hard-line government. This decision comes after President Joe Biden announced a truce plan aimed at ending the war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, which has drawn mixed reactions within Israel’s political landscape.

For months, Netanyahu has avoided setting a timeline for ending the conflict, a move critics argue is politically motivated. Biden’s proposal has forced Netanyahu into a public decision-making process that could determine his political future.

Biden outlined the truce terms, which include the release of hostages held in Gaza and a cease-fire leading to a permanent cessation of hostilities. These terms, confirmed by Israeli officials, have not yet been publicly endorsed by Netanyahu. The Israeli war Cabinet approved the proposal but has yet to present it to the public.

The proposal puts Netanyahu in a tough position. On one side, far-right coalition partners like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threaten to withdraw support if he agrees to the truce before Hamas is destroyed. On the other, centrist leaders Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot have threatened to withdraw their party’s support by June 8 if Netanyahu does not present a clear plan.

Biden’s announcement has left Netanyahu with limited options. “Biden booted Netanyahu out of the closet of ambiguity and presented Netanyahu’s proposal himself,” wrote Ben Caspit, a biographer and critic of the prime minister, in Maariv. “Does Bibi support Netanyahu’s proposal? Yes or no.”

The truce involves three stages: releasing groups of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a temporary cease-fire turning into a permanent one, and launching an internationally-backed effort to rebuild Gaza. More than 100 hostages were released in November, but an estimated 125 remain in captivity.

Netanyahu’s office issued two statements following Biden’s speech, neither fully endorsing nor rejecting the proposal. The first statement authorized the negotiating team to present a proposal aimed at releasing hostages and continuing the war to achieve its objectives, including destroying Hamas’ military and governing capabilities. The second reiterated these conditions and rejected any permanent cease-fire until these goals are met.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that Israel would not accept Hamas’ rule in Gaza and would work to establish an alternative government.

Critics accuse Netanyahu of prolonging the war to avoid an election and a reckoning for the intelligence failures leading to Hamas’ October 7 assault on Israel. Netanyahu’s political fate hangs in the balance as he faces pressure from both his coalition and the international community.

While some of Netanyahu’s supporters wear “Total Victory” caps, his latest statements align more with the military’s and Biden’s articulated goals. Netanyahu’s relationship with Biden has been strained, but recent developments indicate a potential shift.

Biden presented the truce as a pathway to integrating Israel more deeply into the Middle East, including a potential normalization agreement with Saudi Arabia. He acknowledged the resistance within Netanyahu’s coalition but urged Israeli leaders to support the deal.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog offered his support for any agreement that would bring the hostages home, reflecting a national consensus despite his mostly ceremonial role.

John Kirby, a U.S. National Security Council spokesperson, clarified that the truce proposal originated from Israel. “We have every expectation that if Hamas agrees to the proposal…then Israel would say yes,” Kirby said on ABC News.

Despite this, skepticism remains. Reuven Hazan, a political science professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, expressed doubts about Netanyahu’s willingness to abandon his hard-right partners. “Whenever he’s had the choice…he’s always gone with his extremist fanatics,” Hazan said.

Hamas responded positively to Biden’s speech, expressing readiness to deal constructively with the proposal. However, Hazan cautioned against expecting immediate changes. “A speech by President Biden doesn’t mean we have a new Netanyahu.”

Mayor Guo, sinuspinde ng ombudsman dahil sa POGO operations

MAYNILA. Sinuspinde ng anim na buwan ng Office of the Ombudsman si Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo at dalawang iba pa. Ito’y matapos sampahan ng Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) ng kasong graft si Mayor Guo kaugnay ng operasyon ng Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) sa naturang bayan.

Nadiskubre ng DILG task force na may pananagutan umano ang Bamban-LGU sa nadiskubreng POGO operation doon. Nag-ugat ito sa pagbibigay ng permit sa Hongsheng Gaming Technology Inc. sa kabila ng pagkabigo ng kumpanya na makumpleto ang mga kinakailangang requirements at pagkakaroon ng expired na lisensya mula sa Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR).

Ayon kay DILG Undersecretary for External, Legal and Legislative Affairs Juan Victor Llamas, Mayo 24 nang ihain nila sa Ombudsman ang reklamo laban kay Guo sa ilalim ng Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act o Republic Act No. 3019. “‘Yung POGO na it was given a permit – kasi merong permit diyan eh – without the requisite, the necessary requisite. May kulang kasi sila na [requirement], pero binigyan pa rin ng permit….And then, tapos nag-expire pa ‘yung kanyang PAGCOR license, at the time na nag-expire ‘yan eh, hindi kasi nirerevoke ni Mayor ‘yung kanilang business permit,” ani Llamas.

Sa resolusyon ng Ombudsman, bukod kay Guo, pinatawan din ng 6 na buwan preventive suspension si Edwin Ocampo, business permit and licensing officer, at Adenn Sigua, municipal legal officer ng Bamban LGU. Inaatasan na ang DILG na ipatupad agad ang kautusan ng Ombudsman.

Hindi naman kasama sa mga pinatawan ng suspensyon ang bise alkalde at ang mga konsehal ng Bamban LGU. Ang suspension order ng Ombudsman ay ginawa upang bigyang daan ang ginagawang imbestigasyon sa pagkakaladkad ng pangalan ni Guo sa operasyon ng POGO sa kanyang bayan.

Patuloy nating tututukan ang balitang ito para sa karagdagang impormasyon at updates.

Zelenskyy visits Manila to rally support for peace summit saying China and Russia are trying to undermine it

MANILA. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a surprise visit to Manila on Monday, aiming to garner support for a Swiss-organized global peace summit focused on the war in Ukraine. He accused Russia, with China’s assistance, of attempting to undermine the summit.

Arriving late Sunday under heavy security after speaking at the Shangri-La defense forum in Singapore, Zelenskyy was welcomed with military honors at the presidential palace. He then met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. before departing the Philippines.

President Marcos pledged the Philippines’ participation in the peace summit, as confirmed by Philippine Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil. “I’m happy to hear today from you that you’ll participate in our peace steps,” Zelenskyy told Marcos. “It’s a very strong signal.”

Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine’s need for more mental health workers for its soldiers, to which Marcos promised assistance. Additionally, Marcos welcomed Ukraine’s decision to open an embassy in Manila this year, facilitating closer bilateral cooperation.

“We have ourselves been trying to promote the continuing adherence to international law in our part of the world,” Marcos said. “The issues that you are facing are similar and in parallel to ours and, therefore, the position the Philippines takes is always to promote peace.”

Both leaders criticized China at the Singapore forum, which saw participation from global defense and government officials, including representatives from Washington and Beijing. The forum occurred amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine and rising tensions between the United States and China in the Indo-Pacific region.

At a news conference in Singapore, Zelenskyy accused China of aiding Russia in disrupting the peace summit by pressuring other countries not to attend. “Russia, using Chinese influence in the region, using Chinese diplomats also, does everything to disrupt the peace summit,” he said.

In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning denied the allegation, stating, “Our position is open and transparent, and there is no such thing as pressuring other countries.”

China claims neutrality on the Ukraine war but has increased trade with Russia, mitigating the impact of Western sanctions. Intelligence reports suggest Chinese parts are being used in Russian weaponry, though China denies directly arming Russia.

Switzerland had hoped for Chinese attendance at the mid-June peace conference, but Mao Ning indicated this was unlikely. During the security forum, Zelenskyy urged defense officials to attend the summit, expressing disappointment over some countries’ reluctance to commit. He stated that Ukraine has proposals addressing nuclear security, food security, prisoner of war releases, and the return of abducted Ukrainian children.

“We are ready to hear various proposals and thoughts that lead us to an end of the war and a sustainable and just peace,” Zelenskyy said.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with Zelenskyy at the conference, reaffirming U.S. support for Ukraine. In his address, Austin condemned Putin’s actions, saying, “Putin’s war of aggression has provided us all with a preview of a world that none of us would want.”

President Marcos highlighted the risks in the South China Sea during the forum, noting that any fatal incident involving a Filipino could escalate into a significant conflict. “Illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive actions continue to violate our sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdictions,” Marcos stated, emphasizing the Philippines’ commitment to peaceful dispute resolution.

Austin reiterated the U.S. commitment to the Philippines as a treaty ally but stressed the importance of maintaining dialogue with China to prevent unnecessary escalations.

“There are a number of things that can happen at sea or in the air, we recognize that,” Austin said. “But our goal is to make sure that we don’t allow things to spiral out of control unnecessarily.”

Arriving late Sunday under heavy security after speaking at the Shangri-La defense forum in Singapore, Zelenskyy was welcomed with military honors at the presidential palace.

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

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

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

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

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.