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Iraq reports 16 killed in US strikes; Iran-linked groups launch retaliatory attacks

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In response to what Iraq described as a “new US aggression,” at least 16 people, including civilians, lost their lives in US strikes in Iraq, according to government officials. The strikes targeted both civilian and security areas, resulting in 25 people sustaining injuries. The Iraqi government condemned the attacks, citing a violation of its sovereignty, and warned of potential dire consequences in the region.

The United States conducted the strikes in Iraq and Syria in retaliation for an attack that claimed the lives of American soldiers in Jordan amid Israel’s conflict with Gaza. The Iraqi government expressed concern that such aggressive actions would jeopardize security in Iraq and the broader region.

The Iraqi government refuted Washington’s claim of coordinating the air attacks with Baghdad, dismissing it as “false” and aimed at misleading international public opinion. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s office asserted that the presence of the US-led military coalition in the region has become a threat to Iraq’s security and stability.

In response to the situation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the US charge d’affaires in Baghdad to formally protest the actions. Simultaneously, Iran-aligned groups claimed responsibility for attacking US bases in Syria, as well as western and northern Iraq.

Syria’s Ministry of Defence criticized the “aggression of the American occupation forces,” emphasizing that the targeted areas were where the military was engaged in combat against remnants of the ISIS armed group. Reports from Syrian state media indicated casualties in the country’s desert region and border areas with Iraq.

While the strikes did not occur within Iranian territory, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned them as “another adventurous action and another strategic error” by the US government. The ministry predicted that such actions would only intensify instability in the region.

The US National Security Council spokesperson, John Kirby, stated that the goal of the attacks was to deter Iran-aligned groups’ assaults rather than provoke a war with Iran. President Joe Biden asserted that the strikes would continue at chosen times and places.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) disclosed using bombers and over 125 precision munitions to target more than 85 locations, including command and control operations centers, intelligence centers, and weapons storage facilities of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Tehran-backed armed groups.

Despite Washington’s claim that its targets were supported by the Quds Force command of the IRGC, no Iranian personnel are believed to have been killed. The attacks came nearly a week after the killing of three US soldiers in a drone attack on the Tower 22 base near the Syria-Jordan border. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a coalition of forces viewing US troops as “occupying forces,” had claimed responsibility for the attack.

Reporting from Baghdad, Al Jazeera highlighted that the Iraqi resistance, including Iran-aligned groups, conducted retaliatory attacks. Missiles targeted the al-Tanf military base in Syria, housing US personnel, and the Ain al-Assad base in western Iraq. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, despite announcing a suspension of hostile operations against US troops earlier, claimed responsibility for an attack on the Harir base in Erbil, northern Iraq, using unspecified drones. However, security sources contradicted this, stating no attack had been detected on the air base hosting US forces.

US launches airstrikes on militias in Iraq and Syria in retaliation for fatal drone attack

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WASHINGTON. The United States military carried out a significant air assault on multiple sites in Iraq and Syria, targeting Iranian-backed militias and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard on Friday. This operation marked the initial response to the drone strike that claimed the lives of three U.S. troops in Jordan last weekend.

The extensive series of strikes hit more than 85 targets across seven locations, including command and control headquarters, intelligence centers, rockets and missiles, as well as drone and ammunition storage sites. These facilities were linked to either the militias or the Iranian Revolutionary Guard’s Quds Force, responsible for Tehran’s support and arming of regional militias. President Joe Biden emphasized in a statement that this was only the beginning of the response.

While the strikes focused on militias in Iraq and Syria, there was a deliberate effort to avoid directly targeting Iran or the senior leaders of the Revolutionary Guard Quds Force within Iranian borders. The intention is to prevent further escalation of the conflict. Iran has consistently denied involvement in the Jordan attack.

The impact of the strikes remains uncertain. The warning given by the U.S. in the preceding days may have prompted militia members to scatter and seek refuge. Given the dispersed nature of the groups operating in various countries, achieving a decisive blow appears challenging.

Although Kataib Hezbollah, one of the main Iran-backed militias, announced a suspension of attacks on American troops, other groups pledged to continue their fight, presenting themselves as advocates for the Palestinian cause amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

President Biden asserted, “Our response began today. It will continue at times and places of our choosing.” He cautioned those who pose a threat to Americans, stating, “If you harm an American, we will respond.” U.S. leaders had consistently indicated that the response would be a sustained and “tiered” effort over time.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated that the targets were selected carefully to avoid civilian casualties, based on clear evidence connecting them to attacks on U.S. personnel in the region. However, he did not disclose specific details of this evidence.

The strikes, conducted over approximately 30 minutes, targeted three sites in Iraq and four in Syria. Lt. Gen. Douglas Sims, director of the Joint Staff, reported that more than 125 precision munitions were deployed, involving various aircraft, including long-range B-1 bombers flown from the United States. Weather conditions played a role in planning to confirm accurate targeting and minimize civilian casualties.

While it is unclear whether militia members were killed, Syrian state media reported casualties without specifying a number. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicated that 18 militants were killed in the strikes in Syria.

Iraqi army spokesman Yahya Rasool condemned the airstrikes, considering them a violation of Iraqi sovereignty. He warned of undesirable consequences, asserting that the strikes undermine the efforts of the Iraqi government.

The assault occurred shortly after President Biden, along with top defense leaders, attended the return of the remains of the three Army Reserve soldiers killed in Jordan at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware.

Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi, earlier in the day, reiterated Tehran’s readiness to respond to any U.S. strikes targeting its interests. Kataib Hezbollah’s announcement of suspending military operations did not deter U.S. strike plans, as other groups vowed to continue their activities against U.S. troops.

The U.S. has attributed the attack in Jordan to the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a coalition of Iran-backed militias. Kataib Hezbollah is considered a prime suspect. The heightened assaults by these groups have followed Israel’s conflict with Hamas, further inflaming tensions in the Middle East.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “This is a dangerous moment in the Middle East.” He reassured that the U.S. would take all necessary actions to defend its interests and people.

As of Tuesday, Iran-backed militia groups had launched 166 attacks on U.S. military installations since October 18, with 67 in Iraq, 98 in Syria, and one in Jordan. The recent attack in Jordan resulted in the first combat deaths of U.S. troops attributed to Iran-backed militias since the Israel-Hamas conflict began.

The U.S. has reinforced defenses at Tower 22, the base attacked in Jordan, and initiated self-defense strikes in Yemen against Houthi military targets deemed an imminent threat. The situation continues to evolve as regional tensions remain high.

Ilocos Region inabel weaving tradition finds a champion in Mia Aguila

In the heart of the Philippines, the Ilocos Region boasts a cultural gem that transcends centuries — the exquisite art of Inabel weaving. Rooted in history and tradition, Inabel dates back to a bygone era, spanning between the 16th century and the late 19th century, weaving together the rich tapestry of Ilocano culture.

Inabel, or Abel Iloko, is a manifestation of the meticulous craftsmanship of the Ilocano people. This time-honored tradition involves a meticulous process of spinning and weaving, resulting in fabrics renowned for their durability, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns. Beyond being mere textiles, Inabel serves as a symbolic representation of Ilocano identity and pride, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage.

In an era where ancient crafts face the threat of fading into obscurity, Mia Aguila has emerged as a devoted advocate for the preservation and promotion of Inabel weaving. Recognizing the urgency to safeguard this cultural legacy, Mia founded Tela de Bonita — a venture committed to not only marketing Inabel but also ensuring its recognition nationwide and worldwide.

Mia’s passion for Inabel extends beyond commerce; it is a mission to safeguard the centuries-old weaving tradition. Tela de Bonita serves as a bridge between the skilled artisans of Ilocos and a global audience eager to embrace the beauty and authenticity of Inabel. Through this initiative, she provides a platform for local weavers to showcase their talents while creating awareness about the cultural significance embedded in every thread of Inabel fabric.

By establishing Tela de Bonita, Mia not only seeks to market Inabel on a broader scale but also aims to nurture a sustainable future for the tradition. The venture becomes a conduit for the intergenerational transmission of skills and knowledge, empowering local artisans and ensuring the continuity of this venerable craft.

Inabel weaving, as highlighted by Mia, stands as a symbol of Ilocano industriousness and hospitality. The intricate artistry and craftsmanship involved in Inabel weaving reflect the diligence and hard work of the Ilocano people. Moreover, the tradition of Inabel weaving is deeply intertwined with the warm hospitality of the Ilocano culture, as it often serves as a means of creating intricate and beautiful woven fabrics that are shared and utilized within the community. This traditional craft not only preserves the rich cultural heritage of the Ilocanos but also embodies the spirit of hard work and generosity that characterizes their way of life.

Inabel, with its deep roots and intricate patterns, is no longer confined to the borders of the Ilocos Region. Thanks to Mia and Tela de Bonita, this traditional weaving art is finding its way into homes and hearts nationwide and worldwide, securing its place as a timeless cultural heritage. As she threads the needle between tradition and modernity, the vibrant fabric of Inabel continues to weave a narrative of resilience and cultural pride for generations to come.

Included in its product range are blankets, travel blankets, shawls, slippers, and bags featuring inabel, alongside household items like pillowcases, textile, placemats, table napkins, and table runners.

Products are accessible at the Hotel Felicidad lobby in Vigan City and are also available online through the official Tela De Bonita Facebook and Instagram pages. For inquiries, you may contact Tela De Bonita via email at TelaDeBonita22@gmail.com.

Mia featured on the radio program “Ang Inyong Kooperatiba,” discussing the promotion of Inabel and the preservation of its traditional heritage.
Mia Aguila, together with her husband, Vigan Mayor Bonito Singson, and their daughter Bonita, is captured in a moment at one of their Inabel expos.
Dress your table in the vibrant hues and intricate patterns of inabel – a perfect blend of tradition and modern elegance.
Indulge in the exquisite comfort and intricate beauty of inabel bed linens – where craftsmanship meets coziness for a restful retreat.
Included in Tela Bonita’s product range are blankets, travel blankets, shawls, slippers and bags featuring inabel, alongside household items like pillowcases, textile, placemats, table napkins, and table runners.

Lupus and other autoimmune diseases strike far more women than men. Now there’s a clue why

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WASHINGTON. Women are disproportionately affected by autoimmune diseases compared to men, and new research from Stanford University suggests that the reason may be linked to how the female body manages the extra X chromosome. The findings, reported Thursday, could potentially revolutionize the detection and treatment of a range of autoimmune disorders that have long posed challenges for diagnosis and treatment.

University of Pennsylvania immunologist E. John Wherry, not involved in the study, remarked, “This transforms the way we think about this whole process of autoimmunity, especially the male-female bias.”

Approximately 24 to 50 million Americans suffer from autoimmune disorders, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and others. Strikingly, about 80% of patients are women, a gender-based mystery that researchers have grappled with for decades.

One prevailing theory has focused on the X chromosome, given that females possess two X chromosomes while males have one X and one Y chromosome. The new research, published in the journal Cell, sheds light on the role of the extra X chromosome but in an unexpected manner.

The study reveals that a unique RNA, known as Xist, plays a crucial role in silencing one of the X chromosomes in each female cell to prevent an overdose of genes. Xist, pronounced like “exist,” attaches to the extra X chromosome, attracting proteins that form clumps and effectively silencing it.

Dr. Howard Chang, a dermatologist at Stanford, and his team identified nearly 100 proteins linked to skin-related autoimmune disorders in this process. Chang speculated that Xist, exclusive to women, might organize proteins in a way that triggers the immune system.

To test this, male lab mice were genetically modified to produce Xist without silencing their lone X chromosome. These mice, when triggered, developed lupus-like autoimmunity similar to females.

Chang emphasized that Xist alone couldn’t cause autoimmune diseases; a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers, such as infections or injuries, is likely needed. The team engineered mice susceptible to lupus and found that those producing Xist exhibited lupus-like conditions when triggered.

Beyond animal studies, the researchers examined blood samples from 100 patients, uncovering autoantibodies targeting Xist-associated proteins not previously linked to autoimmune disorders. This suggests that existing tests for autoimmunity, often developed using male cells, may have overlooked crucial aspects.

While more research is needed, the findings open new avenues for understanding and potentially diagnosing autoimmune diseases more efficiently. Dr. Wherry from the University of Pennsylvania noted, “Now we have at least one big part of the puzzle of biological context.” Stanford’s Chang envisions the possibility of interrupting the RNA process as a future investigation step.

CDC study finds latest COVID shots 54% effective in preventing symptomatic infection

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NEW YORK. The most recent iterations of COVID-19 vaccines demonstrate a 54% effectiveness in preventing symptomatic infection in adults, as revealed by the first U.S. study evaluating their efficacy. These updated shots, designed to enhance protection against recent coronavirus variants, have been available since last year.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted the study, examining 9,000 individuals tested for COVID-19 at CVS and Walgreens pharmacies. The analysis focused on identifying those who tested positive and assessing whether they had received the latest vaccine version.

The 54% effectiveness aligns with findings reported in other countries and mirrors results from a previous version of the vaccine, according to Ruth Link-Gelles, the lead author of the CDC study.

Future studies, expected later this year, will delve into the vaccine’s efficacy in preventing severe symptoms that necessitate medical attention or hospitalization, Link-Gelles stated.

Despite the CDC’s recommendation for these new shots for individuals aged 6 months and older, a significant portion of the American population has not yet received them. Recent CDC data indicates that only approximately 22% of U.S. adults and a mere 11% of children have been vaccinated with the latest shots. The slow uptake has contributed to a delay in researchers accumulating sufficient data to comprehensively assess the vaccines’ overall effectiveness, Link-Gelles explained.

Pagsabog sa fireworks factory sa Laguna: 5 na ang patay

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CABUYAO CITY, Laguna. Pumalo na sa lima ang bilang ng mga nasawi habang sampung tao naman ang sugatan matapos sumabog ang isang pagawaan ng paputok sa lungsod na ito, kamakalawa ng hapon.

Sa ulat ni Police Regional Office (PRO)-4A public information office chief Lt. Col. Chitadel Gaoiran, kinilala ang mga nasawi na sina Marvin Lamela Ocom, 27; Bebot Reymundodia, 44; Ricardo Olic-Olic, 51; Mylene Tarapidio at John Ronald Gonzales Deduro, 23.

Ang mga nasawi ay dinala sa iba’t ibang ospital ngunit binawian ng buhay habang tinutukan ng lunas dahil sa matinding sunog na tinamo.

Samantalang, ang mga sugatan ay dinala sa Ospital ng Cabuyao, Saint James Hospital, at PGH Hospital para sa agarang medikal na atensyon.

Batay sa paunang imbestigasyon, naganap ang malakas na pagsabog bandang alas-3:30 ng hapon sa Diamond Fireworks Inc. factory sa Purok 3, Brgy Bigaa, na nagdulot ng malaking sunog. Agad itong kumalat sa buong pagawaan hanggang sa mapatay ng mga bumbero ang apoy bandang alas-4:46 ng hapon kahapon.

Habang isinusulong ang pagsisiyasat, iniuugma pa ng Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) ang sanhi ng pagsabog.

Ayon sa mga ulat, hindi ito ang unang pagkakataon na nasunog ang naturang pabrika ng paputok, ngunit sa naunang kaganapan, walang naitalang casualty.

Ang pagawaan ng paputok ay pagmamay-ari ng pamilya Lebrilla at Aquino, at ito ay kilala sa industriya ng paggawa ng paputok sa loob ng dalawang dekada.

Kaugnay nito, nagpahayag ng suporta, nagbigay tulong ang Mayor ng Cabuyao na si Dennis Hain sa mga pamilya ng mga nasawi at sugatan. Tiniyak niya ang patuloy na tulong mula sa pamahalaang lokal para sa agarang paggaling ng mga biktima.

UN expert highlights progress and challenges in addressing human rights abuses in the Philippines

MANILA. United Nations Special Rapporteur Irene Khan, at the conclusion of her nearly two-week visit to the Philippines, commended the government’s efforts under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to tackle human rights abuses, particularly the killings of journalists and rights activists. Khan acknowledged positive steps but emphasized the need for further action and accountability.

During her visit, Khan engaged with government officials, activists, and even met with a detained journalist, as part of her assessment of human rights conditions in the country. She urged the Marcos administration to pursue justice for rights victims during the presidency of Rodrigo Duterte, a term watchdog groups dubbed a “human rights calamity” due to widespread violations.

While Khan recognized the positive signals, she asserted that they are insufficient to decisively address the past. “Tackling the grave and deep-seated human rights problems of the Philippines will require more fundamental and sustained reforms and also a clear commitment to accountability,” she stated during a news conference in Manila.

Referring to UN figures, Khan highlighted that at least 81 past killings of journalists in the Philippines remain unresolved. She expressed concern about the recent trend of journalist killings since Marcos assumed office in 2022, emphasizing that “the Philippines remains a dangerous country for journalists.”

Khan urged the government to abolish its task force overseeing the campaign against a long-standing communist insurgency and spoke against the practice of “red-tagging,” where activists are linked with armed insurgents. She presented evidence that red-tagging is part of security forces’ counterterrorism strategy, leading to threats, unlawful surveillance, attacks, or even killings of legitimate activists.

Jonathan Malaya, assistant director-general of the National Security Council, denied the existence of a “red-tagging” policy and defended the task force, claiming it had weakened the communist insurgency. Malaya stated that once remaining guerrilla fronts are dismantled, the task force would shift its focus to promoting peace and national unity.

The Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army, have been engaged in a communist insurgency since 1969. While Malaya asserted a decline in guerrilla numbers, Khan stressed the need for the government to address the issue of red-tagging and take further steps to ensure human rights in the country.

(With inputs from agencies).

100K 4Ps beneficiaries, inalis ng DSWD, ATM isinasangla

Inalis na ng Department of Social Welfare and Development sa talaan ang may 100,000 pamilyang benepisyaryo ng Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) dahil sa mga anomalya at malaking utang.

Ayon kay Gemma Gabuya, national program manager ng 4Ps, natapos na noong December 2023 ang pagtanggap ng naturang mga pamilya ng benepisyo sa 4Ps matapos madiskubre ang ilang iregularidad.

“Turning over their ATMs to loan sharks is one act that we are in the process of continuously cleansing, because they can be delisted from the program. It’s prohibited. And we have delisted many already,” ani Gabuya.

Alam ni Gabuya ang sitwasyon ng pamumuhay ng ilan pero hindi anya dapat samantalahin ng marami ang programa dahil sila ay kasama na sa cash grant ng conditional cash transfer ng DSWD.

Anya, ngayong taon ay may 1.2 milyong benepisyaryo na ang dapat maalis sa programa upang bigyang pagkakataon ang iba pang mahihirap na mamamayan na makinabang din sa 4Ps.

Sa September 2024 anya ay may 200,000 beneficiaries ang inaasahang ga-graduate na mula sa conditional cash transfer program o mga aalisin na sa listahan dahil wala nang mga anak na pinag-aaral.

Sa ngayon ay kabuuang 339,660 ang nakapagtapos ng pag aaral sa tulong ng 4Ps.

Ilang senador at kongresista, nagtaas ng kilay sa M’danao separation idea ni Duterte

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Nanawagan ng pagtutol ang ilang mga senador at kongresista sa ipinahayag na hangarin ni dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na ihiwalay ang Mindanao sa Pilipinas gamit ang signature drive, na katulad ng Charter Change sa pamamagitan ng People’s Initiative.

Sa kabila ng proyektong ito, nagpahayag ng hindi pagkakasundo sina Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri at Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III, parehong mga Mindanaoans.

Sa isang panayam sa media, sinabi ni Zubiri na wala siyang komento sa plano ni Duterte ngunit idinagdag niya na ito ang huling bagay na nais ng bansa ngayon. “With due respect to the former president, I think right now the last thing that we want is magkagulo-gulo, magkawatak-watak ang ating bansa. Ang akin dyan ay slow down natin ang away ngayon dahil ang importante ay kapakanan ng bahay,” aniya.

Sa kabilang banda, mariing tinututulan ni Pimentel ang plano, na aniya ay nangangailangan ng masusing pagsusuri. “Kailangan nating magtrabaho nang walang pagod sa paggawa ng bansang ito bilang isang gumaganang epektibong Estado,” sabi niya.

Sa kanyang panig, naniniwala si Senador Francis Escudero na ang plano ay “hindi posible ayon sa Konstitusyon.”

Samantalang, kinondena ni House Majority Leader at Zamboanga City Rep. Mannix Dalipe ang pahayag ni Davao City 1st district Rep. Paolo Duterte na dapat nang ihiwalay ang Mindanao sa Pilipinas. Ayon kay Dalipe, wala siyang nakikitang dahilan para sa ganitong hakbang.

Ang mga pahayag ng ilang mambabatas na ito ay nagdudulot ng kontrobersiya, lalo na’t ipinaliwanag ni Dalipe na magiging “disadvantageous” para sa Mindanao ang paghihiwalay, partikular na sa konteksto ng kasalukuyang ekonomiya ng rehiyon.

“OK lang siguro yung mga nakakuha na ng P51 billion na sa kanilang distrito o sa kanilang siyudad. E paano naman yung mga wala pa, ihihiwalay n’yo na? So I disagree with them,” giit ni Dalipe.

Binigyang diin ni Dalipe na hindi nais ng mga taga-Mindanao ang paghihiwalay, anila’y batid nilang magiging dehado sila sa ganitong hakbang. Pinaalalahanan niya ang publiko na hindi magiging makabubuti para sa rehiyon ang paghihiwalay, lalo na at hindi maganda ang kasalukuyang kalagayan ng ekonomiya dito.

Matatandaang noong Martes ng gabi, inihayag ni dating Pangulong Duterte ang ideya ng paghihiwalay ng Mindanao sa Pilipinas sa pamamagitan ng proseso ng pangangalap ng mga lagda.

China overtakes Japan as world’s leading auto exporter, Japanese data reveals

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TOKYO. Recent data from the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association has unveiled a significant shift in the global automotive landscape, indicating that China has surpassed Japan as the world’s top vehicle exporter in the year 2023.

The report indicates that Japan exported a total of 4.42 million vehicles in 2023, marking a notable 16% increase compared to the previous year. Concurrently, domestic auto sales in Japan reached nearly 4.78 million vehicles during the same period.

Contrastingly, figures released earlier by the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers tell a different story. China emerged as the leader in global auto exports, with a reported 4.91 million vehicles shipped in 2023—a substantial surge of nearly 58% from the preceding year. This remarkable growth is largely attributed to the increased exportation of electric and hybrid vehicles from China.

Japan, which held the title of the world’s leading auto exporter since 2017, faced a challenging year in 2023, with its car exports totaling 4.2 million—a notable decrease from the previous year.

The trend reflects a broader decline in auto sales in Japan since 2000. Despite the challenging market conditions, Japanese automakers, including industry giants like Toyota, have been actively investing in the development of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids. While electric vehicles gain traction, Japanese manufacturers also continue to explore alternative powertrain technologies such as fuel cells.

This shift in the global auto export landscape underscores the evolving dynamics of the industry, as China takes the lead in the export of vehicles, particularly those equipped with innovative and environmentally friendly technologies.