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Cannes director criticizes focus on controversies over cinema

Venus L Peñaflor and Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Cannes director criticizes focus on controversies over cinema

CANNES, France. Cannes Film Festival director Thierry Fremaux expressed concern on Monday about the increasing focus on political and social issues within the movie industry, which he believes detracts from the films themselves.

“In the past, people only talked about the cinema. We as organizers only had one anxiety – the films: will people like them, will people hate them?” Fremaux remarked during a press conference.

Fremaux’s comments came in response to a question about a report in the French newspaper Le Figaro last week, which claimed that Cannes had hired a crisis management team to address potential fallout from a list that might be published, naming ten film industry figures accused of sexual abuse.

“It’s not polemics that actually spring from the festival, that’s something we want to avoid,” Fremaux said. Nonetheless, he emphasized the importance of showing the new short film “Moi Aussi” (“Me Too”) by Judith Godreche, a significant voice in France’s #MeToo movement. The global #MeToo movement has exposed men accused of sexual harassment in various fields, including entertainment, politics, and business.

Last week, Cannes announced that the 17-minute short, featuring testimonies from around 1,000 sexual abuse victims, would be screened at the “Un Certain Regard” competition’s opening ceremony on Wednesday evening.

Fremaux reiterated that films are selected based on their cinematic qualities, whether they address issues related to Ukraine, Gaza, or former U.S. President Donald Trump. He noted, “From the start, Cannes has reflected the upheaval in the world because that’s what directors do in their films.”

In addition to these challenges, Fremaux is also contending with a possible strike by festival workers, which could potentially disrupt the event scheduled to run from May 14 to 25.

Cannes is in ongoing discussions with workers’ representatives to address their demands for better working conditions. “Everyone wants to avoid a strike,” Fremaux stated, acknowledging the daily interactions between staff and workers advocating for improved conditions.

China nagpadala ng 30 barko sa Scarborough Shoal: Civilian mission sa West Philippine Sea, balak harangin

Venus L Peñaflor
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China nagpadala ng 30 barko sa Scarborough Shoal: Civilian mission sa West Philippine Sea, balak harangin

MAYNILA. Nagpadala ang China ng apat na malalaking barko ng China Coast Guard (CCG) at 26 maritime militia upang harangin ang isang civilian mission convoy na nagpa-planong maglayag sa Scarborough Shoal mula Mayo 15 hanggang 17.

Ayon kay Ray Powell, Director of SeaLight (Maritime Monitoring), “China is sending a huge force to blockade Scarborough Shoal ahead of the Atin Ito civilian convoy setting sail from the Philippines Tuesday.” Ang convoy na ito ay binubuo ng dalawang malalaking bangka ng Atin Ito Coalition at 1,000 pang mga bangka ng mga mangingisda na layuning maglagay ng mga boya sa nasabing teritoryo.

Dagdag pa ni Powell, ito na ang pinakamalaking blockade ng China sa Scarborough Shoal. Agresibong inaangkin ng China ang nasabing teritoryo na nasa 124 milya lamang ang layo sa Masinloc, Zambales. Ang programa ng Stanford University’s Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation na pinamumunuan ni Powell ay nagmomonitor sa mga aktibidades ng China sa West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Sa kabila ng presensya ng mga barko ng China, ipinahayag ni Rafaela David, co-Convenor ng Atin Ito Coalition, na hindi sila aatras at tuloy ang kanilang paglalayag patungo sa Scarborough Shoal. Aniya, magdadala ang mga organizers ng volunteer convoy ng pagkain at fuel para sa mga mangingisdang Pilipino sa Bajo de Masinloc.

Ito na ang ikalawang pagkakataon na maglalayag ang Atin Ito patungong Scarborough Shoal upang igiit ang karapatan ng mga Pilipino sa soberenya.

Vatican Museum staff seek better conditions through legal challenge

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Vatican Museum staff seek better conditions through legal challenge

ROME. Forty-nine employees of the Vatican Museums have filed a class-action complaint with the Vatican administration, demanding improved seniority, leave, and overtime benefits, in a direct challenge to the governance of Pope Francis.

The complaint, dated April 23 and disclosed by Italian newspapers over the weekend, highlights concerns over health and security risks faced by staff due to cost-saving measures and apparent profit-driven initiatives within the museums. These initiatives include overcrowding and a reduction in security guards to manage the influx of tourists.

Neither the Vatican spokesperson nor Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, president of the Vatican City State administration overseeing the museums, responded to requests for comment.

This legal action underscores the ongoing clash between Vatican laws and European norms. Recent civil and criminal cases have shed light on the limited legal recourse available to Vatican employees, particularly Italian citizens, within the city-state’s unique justice system, where Pope Francis holds supreme executive, legislative, and judicial authority.

The class-action complaint, prepared and endorsed by veteran Vatican attorney Laura Sgro on behalf of the employees, draws attention to the social teachings of the Catholic Church and Pope Francis’ calls for employers to uphold the dignity of workers. It demands greater transparency in career advancement, restoration of seniority bonuses, and adherence to Italian standards regarding sick leave.

Under Vatican labor regulations, Cardinal Vérgez Alzaga has 30 days to respond to the complaint. If negotiations fail to commence, Sgro may escalate the matter to the Vatican’s labor office for potential reconciliation, which could ultimately lead to tribunal proceedings. However, the office retains the discretion to reject the case, leaving employees with limited avenues for redress.

In previous cases, attorneys have signaled intentions to bring complaints about the Vatican’s legal system to the European Court of Human Rights, despite the Holy See not being a member or signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights. Some legal experts argue that the Vatican, through its 2009 signing of the European Union monetary convention, committed to upholding European human rights norms.

The Vatican Museums serve as a significant revenue source for the Vatican, subsidizing the Holy See bureaucracy. However, the museums faced financial strain from COVID-19 closures and restrictions, leading to a hike in full-price ticket costs earlier this year to 20 euros ($21.50), up from 17 euros.

China denies Philippine allegations of “artificial island” in disputed waters

Venus L Peñaflor
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China denies Philippine allegations of “artificial island” in disputed waters

MANILA/BEIJING. The Philippines vowed on Monday to step up surveillance of reefs, shoals, and islets in its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, amidst denials from China over accusations of constructing an artificial island in the contested waters.

The Philippine Coast Guard revealed on Saturday the deployment of a vessel to Sabina Shoal in the Spratly archipelago, where it alleged China was engaged in constructing an artificial island. The Coast Guard documented what it claimed were piles of dead and crushed coral on the sandbars, sparking concerns over environmental damage.

Jonathan Malaya, spokesperson of the National Security Council (NSC), conveyed NSC chief Eduardo Año’s directive for heightened surveillance within Manila’s 200-nautical mile economic zone, amid escalating tensions with Beijing. “No one will guard (these locations) except us. It is our responsibility under international law to guard (them) and ensure that the environment there would not be damaged and that there won’t be reclamation activities,” Malaya emphasized during a televised interview.

China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea, which overlap with territories claimed by the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam, have led to extensive land reclamation efforts, raising concerns among neighboring countries and Washington.

In response to Manila’s accusations, China’s foreign ministry labeled them as “groundless and pure rumor” during a regular briefing on Monday. Spokesperson Wang Wenbin urged Manila to resolve maritime disputes through negotiation and consultation, dismissing the allegations as attempts to mislead the international community.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela asserted that their presence at Sabina Shoal had deterred China from undertaking further reclamation activities. However, he highlighted the need for scientific evaluation to determine whether the observed coral formations were natural or man-made. The Coast Guard remains committed to maintaining a presence at the shoal, situated just over 120 nautical miles from Palawan province.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration’s 2016 ruling invalidated Beijing’s claims in the South China Sea, a pivotal waterway, a decision rejected by China. Sabina Shoal serves as a crucial rendezvous point for vessels resupplying Philippine troops stationed at the Second Thomas Shoal, where frequent encounters between Manila and Beijing have occurred.

Considering recent tensions, Año has called for the expulsion of Chinese diplomats over an alleged leak of a phone conversation with a Filipino admiral regarding the maritime dispute. The Philippine foreign ministry announced on Monday its intention to investigate reports of “illegal and unlawful activities” by diplomatic officials without specifically naming China.

Indonesia grapples with devastation as flash floods claim dozens of lives

EDGARDO HERNAL
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Indonesia grapples with devastation as flash floods claim dozens of lives

PADANG, Indonesia. Disaster struck Indonesia’s Sumatra Island as torrential monsoon rains unleashed flash floods, claiming the lives of at least 43 people and leaving 15 others missing in their wake.

The calamity unfolded late Saturday when heavy rains, coupled with a landslide of mud and cold lava from Mount Merapi, breached a river in West Sumatra province. The resulting deluge engulfed mountainside villages across four districts, submerging hundreds of homes and structures and forcing over 3,100 individuals to seek refuge in temporary shelters, revealed National Disaster Management Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari.

Cold lava, known as lahar, a mix of volcanic material and pebbles, cascaded down the slopes of Mount Marapi, exacerbating the devastation caused by the flash floods.

Rescue efforts intensified on Monday as recovery teams retrieved more bodies, predominantly from the hardest-hit areas in Agam and Tanah Datar districts. The death toll climbed to 43, with 19 individuals sustaining injuries, while rescuers continued their search for the 15 missing villagers, Muhari confirmed.

Heart-wrenching scenes unfolded as relatives wept while witnessing the retrieval of mud-covered bodies from ravaged hamlets. The grim task of collecting the deceased and preparing them for burial underscored the scale of the tragedy.

Challenges abound for authorities as damaged roads and debris obstruct access to the affected regions, impeding the deployment of heavy machinery and equipment. Abdul Malik, head of the search and rescue office in Padang, emphasized the urgent need for additional excavators and mud pumps to navigate the vast and treacherous terrain.

Flash floods also wreaked havoc in the Anai Valley Waterfall area, blocking main roads and isolating communities. The aftermath revealed roads transformed into torrents of muddy water, villages swallowed by debris, and landscapes scarred by uprooted trees.

Indonesia, with its myriad of islands and diverse topography, grapples with frequent natural disasters, including landslides and flash floods, exacerbated by heavy rainfall. Mount Marapi’s surprise eruption late last year claimed the lives of 23 climbers, highlighting the volatile nature of the region’s volcanic landscape.

P4.4 milyong halaga ng shabu at party drugs nasabat sa drug operations sa Cavite at Quezon

Arman B. Cambe
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P4.4 milyong halaga ng shabu at party drugs nasabat sa drug operations sa Cavite at Quezon

LUCENA CITY/BACOOR CITY. Dalawang magkahiwalay na operasyon kontra droga ang isinagawa ng mga awtoridad sa Cavite at Quezon na nagresulta sa pag aresto ng pitong suspek at pagsamsam ng P4.4 milyong halaga ng shabu at party drugs.

Sa Bacoor City, sa Cavite, nahuli ang isang high-value target na si alyas “Haron,” 29-anyos, isang cellphone vendor mula sa Brgy Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga. Ayon sa ulat ng Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), si Haron ay dinakip sa open parking lot ng isang kilalang mall sa Brgy. Habay 2 matapos itong makuhanan ng P1.2 milyong halaga ng shabu at ecstasy.

Nakipag-deal ang isang poseur buyer kay Haron na nagdala pa ng droga mula Pampanga. Nasabat sa kanya ang 50 gramo ng shabu na nagkakahalaga ng P345,000 at 503 piraso ng ecstasy tablets na umaabot sa P1.2 milyon.

Samantala, sa Quezon, sa magkakahiwalay na operasyon ng Quezon Police, anim na suspek ang naaresto kabilang ang tatlong High Value Individuals (HVI) at tatlong Street Level Individuals (SLI). Sa limang buy-bust operations, nasamsam ang 158.44 gramo ng shabu na may halagang P3,232,176.

Nahuli ang mga SLIs na sina alyas “Jayson” sa Lucena City, alyas “Jaymar” sa Gumaca, at alyas “Leonida” sa Candelaria. Natimbog naman ang mga HVIs na sina alyas “Christopher” at alyas “Rustie” sa Candelaria, at si alyas “Sharly,” isang 43-taong gulang na babae mula sa Brgy. Sto. Cristo Sariaya, Quezon, na may dalang 130 gramo ng shabu.

Ang lahat ng mga suspek ay kasalukuyang nasa kustodiya ng pulisya habang ang mga nakumpiskang ebidensya ay isinailalim na sa pagsusuri ng Forensic Unit. Ang mga nadakip ay haharap sa kasong paglabag sa Republic Act 9165 o ang “Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002.”

Israeli forces advance deeper in Rafah, engage Hamas militants in Northern Gaza

Venus L Peñaflor
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Israeli forces advance deeper in Rafah, engage Hamas militants in Northern Gaza

RAFAH, Gaza Strip. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas reached new heights on Sunday as Israeli forces continued their advance into the southern city of Rafah, while engaging in fierce battles with militants in the northern region of Gaza.

Considered Hamas’ last stronghold, Rafah witnessed a rapid exodus of Palestinians following evacuation orders issued by Israel. Approximately 300,000 civilians out of over 1 million have fled the city, amidst Israel’s mission to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages taken in the October 7 attack.

Neighboring Egypt voiced strong opposition to the offensive, signaling intentions to support South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. Meanwhile, the United Nations human rights chief, Volker Turk, expressed concerns over the compatibility of a full-scale invasion of Rafah with international humanitarian law.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated opposition to a major military assault on Rafah, warning of the potential for prolonged insurgency if a comprehensive exit strategy and postwar governance plan are not implemented.

As the conflict intensifies, Gaza grapples with a vacuum in governance, allowing Hamas to bolster its armed wing, even in the most heavily affected areas. Recent attacks by Hamas near Rafah and Gaza City underscore the security challenges faced by Israeli forces.

Despite the escalating violence, Israel has yet to present a detailed postwar governance plan for Gaza, maintaining its intention to retain security control over the enclave’s population of approximately 2.3 million Palestinians.

Efforts to mediate a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages remain deadlocked, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to continue the fight until victory. However, voices of dissent within Israel, including protests demanding an immediate ceasefire deal, highlight growing frustration with the ongoing conflict.

The conflict, which erupted following the October 7 attack, has resulted in significant casualties, including around 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians, and the capture of over 250 hostages by militants.

In the northern region of Gaza, Palestinians reported heavy Israeli bombardment overnight, exacerbating the dire humanitarian situation in urban areas like the Jabaliya refugee camp. The onslaught has prompted calls for urgent international intervention to prevent further civilian casualties and address the looming humanitarian crisis.

Sherpa legend Kami Rita conquers Mt. Everest peaks for the 29th time, setting a new record

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Sherpa legend Kami Rita conquers Mt. Everest peaks for the 29th time, setting a new record

KATHMANDU, Nepal. Renowned climbing guide Kami Rita has once again etched his name in the annals of mountaineering history by summiting Mount Everest for the 29th time, setting a new record, expedition organizers confirmed on Sunday.

Kami Rita, accompanied by fellow climbers, reached the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) pinnacle at 7:25 a.m. local time, as reported by Mingma Sherpa of Seven Summits Treks, the expedition organizer. Described as in good health, Kami Rita began his descent to lower camps shortly after the successful ascent.

Last year, Kami Rita had already secured the record with two climbs, a feat he repeated within a week, further solidifying his legacy as one of Everest’s most accomplished climbers. His friendly rivalry with fellow Sherpa guide Pasang Dawa, who boasts 27 successful ascents of the mountain, has captivated the climbing community.

Since his inaugural ascent in 1994, Kami Rita has consistently tackled Everest’s challenging terrain, embodying the resilience and expertise of Sherpa guides crucial for the safety and success of climbers from around the world.

Born into a family of Sherpa guides, Kami Rita’s passion for mountaineering extends beyond Everest, having conquered several other towering peaks including K2, Cho Oyu, Manaslu, and Lhotse.

With favorable weather conditions reported on the mountain, climbers have been seizing the opportunity to summit Everest, joining the ranks of those who reached the peak just days prior. Hundreds more climbers are expected to attempt the climb throughout the month, supported by both foreign permits and the expertise of local Sherpa guides.

As the climbing season unfolds, Kami Rita’s extraordinary achievement serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of mountaineers and the enduring allure of the world’s highest peak.

Pioneer of genetically modified pig kidney transplant dies after almost 2 months

EDGARDO HERNAL
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Pioneer of genetically modified pig kidney transplant dies after almost 2 months

BOSTON. Richard “Rick” Slayman, the first recipient of a genetically modified pig kidney transplant, has passed away nearly two months after undergoing the groundbreaking procedure, his family and Massachusetts General Hospital announced on Saturday.

Slayman, 62, received the transplant at Massachusetts General Hospital in March, marking a significant milestone in medical science. Surgeons had initially anticipated the pig kidney to function for at least two years.

Expressing deep sorrow, the transplant team at Massachusetts General Hospital conveyed their condolences to Slayman’s family, emphasizing that there were no indications that his passing was linked to the transplant itself.

Hailing from Weymouth, Massachusetts, Slayman made history as the first living person to undergo this innovative procedure. Previously, pig kidneys had been transplanted into brain-dead donors on a temporary basis. While two men received heart transplants from pigs, both succumbed within months.

Slayman’s medical journey began in 2018 when he underwent a kidney transplant at the same hospital. However, complications arose last year, necessitating his return to dialysis. When his condition worsened, doctors proposed the pioneering pig kidney transplant as a potential solution.

In a heartfelt statement, Slayman’s family expressed gratitude to his medical team, acknowledging their tireless efforts that granted them precious additional time with Rick.

“Their enormous efforts leading the xenotransplant gave our family seven more weeks with Rick, and our memories made during that time will remain in our minds and hearts,” the statement read.

The family underscored Slayman’s motivation to undergo the surgery, not only for his own benefit but also to instill hope in the thousands of individuals awaiting transplants worldwide.

“Rick accomplished that goal and his hope and optimism will endure forever,” the statement continued.

Xenotransplantation, the practice of using animal cells, tissues, or organs to treat human patients, has faced numerous challenges in the past due to immune system rejection. Recent advancements, including genetic modifications in pigs to make their organs more compatible with humans, have sparked renewed hope in the field of transplantation.

With over 100,000 people on the national transplant waiting list, predominantly kidney patients, Slayman’s journey underscores the urgent need for innovative solutions to save lives. Despite his passing, his legacy as a trailblazer in medical science will continue to inspire future advancements in organ transplantation.

Matinding init sa 36 na lugar, suspendido ang F2F classes sa ilang lugar ngayong Lunes

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Matinding init sa 36 na lugar, suspendido ang F2F classes sa ilang lugar ngayong Lunes

Sa ulat ng Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), 36 lugar sa bansa ang nasa banta ng matinding init na may heat index na itinuturing na “dangerous” ngayong Lunes, ika-13 ng Mayo.

Sa Aparri, Cagayan, posibleng umabot sa 47°C ang heat index, habang maaaring sumampa ito sa 46°C sa mga lugar tulad ng Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Roxas City, Capiz; at Guiuan, Eastern Samar.

Nasa 45°C naman ang inaasahang heat index sa Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; ISU Echague, Isabela; at Iloilo City, Iloilo.

Dagdag pa ng PAGASA, maaaring maranasan ang 44°C na heat index sa Bacnotan, La Union; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; Cuyo, Palawan; at Dumangas, Iloilo.

Samantala, posibleng magkaroon ng 43°C na heat index sa Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Pasay City, Metro Manila; MMSU, Batac, Ilocos Norte; Baler (Radar), Aurora; Aborlan, Palawan; Virac (Synop), Catanduanes; Catarman, Northern Samar; Catbalogan, Samar; at Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte.

Maaari rin daw maramdaman ang 42°C na heat index sa Science Garden Quezon City, Metro Manila; Sinait, Ilocos Sur; NVSU Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya; Iba, Zambales; Casiguran, Aurora; Cubi Pt., Subic Bay Olongapo City; Ambulong, Tanauan Batangas; Daet, Camarines Norte; Masbate City, Masbate; CBSUA-Pili, Camarines Sur; Siquijor, Siquijor; Tacloban City, Leyte; Borongan, Eastern Samar; Dipolog, Zamboanga Del Norte; at Zamboanga City, Zamboanga Del Sur.

Nitong Linggo, iniulat ng PAGASA na umabot sa 49°C ang heat index sa Aparri, Cagayan, na lampas sa kanilang inaasahang 46°C na ipinahayag noong Mayo 11.

Dahil sa matinding init, suspendido ang face-to-face classes sa ilang lugar ngayong Lunes, ika-13 ng Mayo, 2024. Pinapayuhan ang mga paaralan sa mga lugar na apektado na magpatuloy sa asynchronous classes o alternative learning modalities. Sa Metro Manila, Malabon City, Muntinlupa City, Pasay City, at Valenzuela City ay ilan sa mga lugar na apektado ng suspensyon ng mga klase, kasama na ang ilang mga probinsya at paaralan tulad ng Bulacan, Umingan, Pangasinan, at University of Caloocan City (UCC).

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