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U.S. and Ukraine set to sign minerals deal, Zelenskiy pledges to ‘make things right’

EDGARDO HERNAL
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U.S. and Ukraine set to sign minerals deal, Zelenskiy pledges to ‘make things right’

WASHINGTON/KYIV. The United States and Ukraine are preparing to sign a highly debated minerals agreement, four sources confirmed on Tuesday, following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s expression of regret over last week’s tense Oval Office exchange with U.S. President Donald Trump.

According to three sources, Trump has indicated his desire to announce the agreement during his major address to Congress on Tuesday evening. However, they cautioned that the deal had not yet been signed and that the situation remained fluid.

Neither the White House, Ukraine’s presidential administration in Kyiv, nor the Ukrainian embassy in Washington immediately responded to requests for comment.

Zelenskiy Seeks to “Make Things Right”

The developments come as tensions between Washington and Kyiv escalated following Trump’s abrupt decision on Monday to pause U.S. military aid to Ukraine. In response, Zelenskiy stated on Tuesday that he was prepared “any time and in any convenient format” to finalize an agreement granting the U.S. access to Ukrainian minerals.

“None of us wants an endless war. Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible … Nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians,” Zelenskiy wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Zelenskiy left the minerals deal unsigned during his recent visit to Washington after a contentious meeting with Trump in the Oval Office on Friday. In his statement, he acknowledged the diplomatic strain and sought to mend ties.

“My team and I stand ready to work under President Trump’s strong leadership to get a peace that lasts,” he wrote.

While Zelenskiy’s statement did not mention the pause in U.S. military assistance, it appeared to be an effort to reaffirm Kyiv’s gratitude following what sources described as a heated White House meeting.

“We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence,” Zelenskiy wrote. “Our meeting in Washington … did not go the way it was supposed to be. It is regrettable that it happened this way. It is time to make things right.”

Path to Peace and Future Agreements

Zelenskiy also proposed steps toward a potential peace agreement, stating that the process could begin with a prisoner exchange and a halt to air and sea attacks—provided Russia reciprocated.

“Then we want to move very fast through all the next stages and to work with the U.S. to agree a strong final deal,” he added.

The minerals deal, if finalized, could mark a significant step in U.S.-Ukraine relations, but uncertainties remain, particularly in light of the shifting dynamics between Washington and Kyiv under Trump’s administration. Further developments are expected as both sides continue negotiations.

Philippine fighter jet goes missing in night combat mission

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Philippine fighter jet goes missing in night combat mission

MANILA. A Philippine Air Force FA-50 fighter jet, carrying two pilots, went missing during a night combat assault in support of ground troops engaged in an anti-insurgency operation in a southern province, military officials confirmed on Tuesday. A large-scale search operation is now in progress.

The aircraft lost communication around midnight on Monday while en route to its target area. Other air force jets that were part of the mission completed their operations and returned to their base in Cebu province, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) stated, withholding further operational details for security reasons.

A military official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation, disclosed that the missing aircraft was involved in a counterinsurgency mission against New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo urged the public to remain hopeful. “We are hopeful of locating them and the aircraft soon and ask you to join us in prayer during this critical time,” Castillo said.

Fighter jet pilots are trained to eject in case of emergencies, and their emergency locating transmitters can emit signals to aid in their rescue. When asked whether such signals had been detected, Castillo declined to comment but reassured that the military remains “still very optimistic that they are safe.”

It remains uncertain whether the remaining FA-50 fleet will be grounded as investigations into the incident continue.

The Philippines acquired 12 FA-50 multi-role fighter jets from South Korea’s Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. under an 18.9 billion peso ($331 million) contract starting in 2015—marking one of the most significant purchases under the country’s long-delayed military modernization program. The government has plans to acquire an additional 12 units.

These fighter jets have been utilized in various operations, ranging from national ceremonies to patrolling the disputed South China Sea.

Despite years of counterinsurgency efforts, the military estimates that approximately 1,000 NPA guerrillas remain active due to factional infighting, battle losses, and surrenders. Peace negotiations between the Philippine government and communist rebels, previously brokered by Norway, collapsed during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.

In 2023, both sides expressed willingness to resume peace talks, aiming to end one of Asia’s longest-running insurgencies. However, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., no formal negotiations have occurred.

Authorities continue the search for the missing pilots and aircraft, while further updates are expected as the situation develops.

Loreto “Amben” Amante: A dedicated public servant and hands-on father

Venus L Peñaflor
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Loreto “Amben” Amante: A dedicated public servant and hands-on father

Laguna 3rd District Representative Loreto “Amben” Amante has long been a steadfast advocate for the progress and welfare of his constituents. With a career deeply rooted in public service, he continues to push for initiatives that drive economic growth, enhance public health, and improve infrastructure in the region.

A Legacy of Public Service

Before becoming a congressman, Amante served as the mayor of San Pablo City, where he gained recognition for his strong leadership and people-centered policies. His tenure as mayor was marked by numerous infrastructure projects, livelihood programs, and social welfare initiatives that significantly improved the lives of residents. His transition to Congress was a natural progression, as he sought to expand his reach and bring more development opportunities to the entire 3rd District of Laguna.

Mission, Vision, and Goals

Congressman Amante envisions a Laguna where every community thrives through sustainable development. His mission is to champion policies that promote economic empowerment, social welfare, and education. He actively works on legislation that supports small businesses, enhances healthcare services, and strengthens agricultural programs to benefit local farmers.

His goals include:

  • Expanding access to quality healthcare services and medical assistance for indigent families.
  • Boosting economic growth through business-friendly policies and livelihood programs.
  • Improving infrastructure, including roads and bridges, to enhance mobility and connectivity in the district.
  • Advocating for educational programs that provide scholarships and support for students in need.

Bringing Services Closer to the People

To ensure accessibility to government services, Congressman Amante has established satellite offices in Calauan, Nagcarlan, and San Pablo City. These offices serve as direct points of assistance for constituents, where they can seek aid for medical and financial concerns, livelihood support, and other public services. By decentralizing his services, Amante ensures that even those in remote areas have access to the help they need.

A Hands-On Father

Beyond his work as a legislator, Amante is a devoted family man. Despite his demanding schedule, he remains a hands-on father, ensuring that he spends quality time with his children and actively participates in their upbringing. He personally takes part in school activities, attends parent-teacher meetings, and makes time to help with their studies. Whether it’s guiding them in their academic pursuits, attending their special events, or simply being present for everyday moments, he makes sure that his children feel his support and presence.

Amante believes that being a good father goes beyond providing for his family; it means being involved in his children’s lives, teaching them values of hard work, humility, and service to others. He enjoys bonding with them through shared interests such as sports, outdoor activities, and family gatherings. Despite the pressures of public service, he prioritizes family dinners and weekend outings, ensuring that his children grow up with a strong sense of belonging and love.

Beyond his work as a legislator, Amante is a devoted family man.

His dedication to both his family and his public duties reflects his strong values and commitment to service. Congressman Loreto “Amben” Amante continues to be a pillar of leadership in Laguna, balancing his responsibilities as a public servant and a father. With his vision for progress and his deep connection with the people, he remains a trusted and reliable representative of the 3rd District.

Congressman Loreto “Amben” Amante continues to be a pillar of leadership in Laguna, balancing his responsibilities as a public servant and a father. With his vision for progress and his deep connection with the people, he remains a trusted and reliable representative of the 3rd District.

DISCLAIMER: This advertisement is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement of any political candidate. The views and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the featured individual and do not necessarily reflect the stance of this platform.

Paid for by Friends of Congressman Loreto ‘Amben’ Amante

Pope Francis faces setback in health battle, returns to noninvasive ventilation

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Pope Francis faces setback in health battle, returns to noninvasive ventilation

ROME. Pope Francis suffered two acute respiratory crises on Monday, prompting doctors to place him back on noninvasive mechanical ventilation, the Vatican confirmed. This marks another setback in his ongoing battle with pneumonia, which has now stretched beyond two weeks.

Medical specialists performed two bronchoscopies to extract what was described as “copious” amounts of mucus from the pope’s lungs. A bronchoscopy involves inserting a camera-equipped tube into the airways to suction out fluid. The Vatican clarified that this mucus buildup was a reaction to the original infection rather than a sign of a new bacterial presence, as laboratory tests ruled out additional infections.

Despite the respiratory challenges, the 88-year-old pontiff remained alert and cooperative with medical personnel. However, his prognosis remains uncertain. Doctors did not explicitly state whether he was in stable condition but referred to the crises in the past tense, suggesting the worst of the episodes might be over.

Concerns Over Pope’s Recovery

Francis’ health complications are compounded by his pre-existing chronic lung disease and the partial removal of one of his lungs earlier in life. His recovery has been inconsistent, with incremental improvements followed by setbacks.

Dr. John Coleman, a pulmonary critical care specialist at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, noted that the need for bronchoscopies indicates a serious level of mucus accumulation. “The fact that they had to go in there and remove it manually is concerning, because it means that he is not clearing the secretions on his own,” he explained.

The pope’s latest respiratory crises follow a similar incident on Friday, when he suffered a severe coughing fit, aspirated vomit, and required a day of noninvasive mechanical ventilation before stabilizing. However, Monday’s developments have renewed concerns about his ability to recover without further medical intervention.

Vatican Statement and Papal Silence

A late Vatican update attributed the respiratory issues to a “significant accumulation” of mucus in Francis’ lungs, coupled with bronchial spasms. The pope was once again placed on noninvasive mechanical ventilation—a mask that covers the nose and mouth, delivering oxygen to aid breathing.

Francis, who is overweight, wheelchair-bound, and not physically active, has been undergoing respiratory physiotherapy in an effort to improve lung function. However, the continued buildup of secretions suggests his body lacks the strength to expel them naturally.

Notably, the Vatican has refrained from releasing photos or videos of the pope since he was admitted to Gemelli Polyclinic on February 14, marking his longest absence from the public eye since the start of his papacy 12 years ago. The Vatican has defended his privacy, stating that Francis prefers to recover in peace. However, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, a close associate of the pope, urged him to make his voice heard. “We need men like him who are truly universal and not only one-sided,” Paglia said at a Vatican bioethics assembly.

Francis did contribute a written message to the assembly, expressing concern over global conflicts and criticizing international organizations for failing to address them effectively. The message, dated February 26, was signed “from Gemelli Polyclinic.”

Questions About the Pope’s Future Care

Doctors often use noninvasive ventilation to delay or prevent full intubation, an invasive procedure that involves inserting a tube into the airway. So far, Francis has not been intubated during this hospitalization. The Vatican has not disclosed whether he has issued advance directives regarding his medical treatment if his condition worsens.

Catholic doctrine emphasizes the sanctity of life from conception to natural death. While patients must receive basic care like hydration and nutrition, the Church allows for the withdrawal of “extraordinary” medical interventions if they no longer provide meaningful benefits. In 2017, Francis himself addressed this issue, stating, “There is no obligation to have recourse in all circumstances to every possible remedy,” and endorsing the moral acceptability of withdrawing excessive treatment.

Archbishop Paglia echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the pope, like any Catholic, would adhere to Church teachings on end-of-life care. “Today, the pope is giving us an extraordinary teaching on fragility,” he said. “Not through words, but with his body, he reminds us that we are all fragile and must care for one another.”

A Papal Hospitalization Unlike Any Other

Despite the concerns surrounding his health, Francis’ 17-night hospitalization is far from a record among popes. St. John Paul II, for instance, endured several prolonged hospital stays during his 25-year papacy. His longest was a 55-day hospitalization in 1981 following an assassination attempt and subsequent infection.

For now, Pope Francis remains under close medical supervision as the world watches for further developments on his recovery.

Babala ng DOH: Heat stroke at iba pang heat-related illnesses, mataas ang panganib ngayong tag-init

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Babala ng DOH: Heat stroke at iba pang heat-related illnesses, mataas ang panganib ngayong tag-init

MAYNILA. Nagbabala ang Department of Health (DOH) sa publiko hinggil sa panganib ng heat-related illnesses kasabay ng pagtaas ng temperatura sa bansa ngayong papalapit na tag-init.

Ayon sa DOH, kabilang sa mga dapat iwasan ang heat cramps, heat exhaustion, at ang mas malalang heat stroke na maaaring maging banta sa buhay kung hindi agad naagapan.

“Ang ganitong mga temperatura ay maaaring humantong sa heat cramps o pamumulikat at heat exhaustion o pagkahapo na may mga sintomas tulad ng pagkapagod, pagkahilo, sakit ng ulo, [at] pagsusuka,” ayon kay DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo.

Dagdag pa niya, “Ang matagal na pagkakalantad sa init ay nagpapataas ng posibilidad ng heat stroke, isang seryosong kondisyon na may pagkawala ng malay, pagkalito o kaya ay mga seizure, kumbulsyon na maaaring makamatay kung hindi ginagamot.”

Upang maiwasan ang panganib, pinapayuhan ng DOH ang publiko na manatili sa malamig o may lilim na lugar, uminom ng maraming tubig, at magsuot ng preskong kasuotan.

Kung may taong nakakaranas ng sintomas ng heat exhaustion o heat stroke, dapat itong dalhin sa malamig o malilim na lugar at painumin ng malamig na tubig. Maaari ring hubarin ang mga damit na maaaring magdulot ng labis na init at lagyan ng cold compress o ice pack ang ulo, mukha, leeg, kilikili, pulso, bukung-bukong, at singit upang mapababa ang temperatura ng katawan.

“Mas makabubuti rin kung kaagad itong dalhin sa pagamutan upang malapatan ng kaukulang lunas,” paalala ng DOH.

Pinayuhan naman ni Domingo ang publiko na regular na subaybayan ang ulat ng PAGASA hinggil sa lagay ng panahon at heat index upang maiwasan ang labis na pagkalantad sa init.

Sa patuloy na pagtaas ng temperatura sa bansa, paalala ng DOH na maging maingat at sundin ang mga hakbang upang mapanatiling ligtas ang kalusugan ngayong tag-init.

Car plows into crowd in Mannheim, killing two and injuring 11

EDGARDO HERNAL
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Car plows into crowd in Mannheim, killing two and injuring 11

MANNHEIM, Germany. A tragic incident unfolded in the western German city of Mannheim on Monday, March 3, when a car rammed into a crowd, killing two people and injuring 11 others. The attack overshadowed the ongoing carnival celebrations in the region, where police had already been on alert for potential threats.

Authorities swiftly detained the driver, who appeared to have deliberately driven into the crowd based on his speed and trajectory. “Horror in broad daylight,” German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser described the incident, emphasizing the alarming nature of the attack.

Suspect Identified, Investigation Underway

Mannheim Chief Public Prosecutor Romeo Schluessler stated that while the suspect’s actions did not seem politically or religiously motivated, there was reason to believe he was psychologically unwell. Investigators have since launched legal proceedings against the suspect, a 40-year-old German man from Rhineland-Palatinate, on charges of two counts of murder and multiple counts of attempted murder.

Authorities revealed that the suspect, believed to be a landscape gardener living alone, had not yet been questioned. After the attack, he shot himself in the mouth with a blank-firing gun and required immediate medical treatment. Investigators have begun searching his home for possible clues regarding his motives.

Security Concerns Amid Recent Attacks

Germany has faced a string of violent incidents in recent months, increasing concerns over public safety. The Mannheim attack follows deadly car rammings in Magdeburg in December and Munich in February, as well as a fatal stabbing in Mannheim in May 2024.

Friedrich Merz, Germany’s likely next leader, condemned the attack and stressed the urgency of preventing future violence. “The incident—like the terrible acts of the past months—serves as a stark reminder: we must do everything possible to prevent such acts,” Merz stated. “Germany must once again become a safe country. We will work with full determination to achieve this.”

Global Reactions and Messages of Solidarity

Leaders from across Europe expressed condolences and solidarity with the victims. French President Emmanuel Macron posted on X (formerly Twitter): “To all the people of Mannheim, especially to all the relatives of the victims of the attack, to the German people. France is at your side.”

Meanwhile, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that “attempts to destabilize democratic nations will not prevail.”

Victims Identified

The two deceased victims were identified as an 83-year-old woman and a 54-year-old man. Authorities continue to monitor the condition of the 11 injured individuals, some of whom remain in critical condition.

Carnival Celebrations on High Alert

This year’s carnival parades had already placed German authorities on high alert due to online threats linked to the Islamic State (IS) militant group. The group had reportedly called for attacks on carnival events in Cologne and Nuremberg. However, Baden-Württemberg’s Interior Minister Thomas Strobl clarified that there was no evidence linking Monday’s incident to the carnival celebrations.

Mannheim held its main carnival event on Sunday, while Monday’s festivities—known as “Rose Monday”—featured major parades and satirical floats across Cologne, Düsseldorf, and other cities. This year’s floats included references to global figures such as U.S. President Joe Biden, Russian President Vladimir Putin, tech mogul Elon Musk, and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

Despite the tragedy, thousands of revelers continued to celebrate in colorful jester costumes, dancing through the streets ahead of the Lenten fasting season.

Authorities have assured the public that security measures remain heightened in the wake of this shocking attack as investigations continue.

BACK TO: University of the Futures 

DC Alviar
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BACK TO: University of the Futures 

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the UP Open University (UPOU) is expected not only for our future but also as “university of the futures.”

Last February 28, it was outgoing Chancellor Melinda dela Peña Bandalaria, PhD and incoming Chancellor Joanne V. Serrano, PhD who led “the charge” with their separate statements on the occasion that was filled with worthy activities participated in by alumni, students, faculty, administrators, and other key stakeholders at the Open U headquarters in Los Banos, Laguna.

UP President Atty. Angelo A. Jimenez administered Dr. Serrano’s oath as the newly appointed UPOU leader, who thanked her predecessors and other colleagues. She also introduced the key university officials before a crowd of educators and other guests, vowing to sustain the gains of the university, steering it to greater heights, and reaffirming its commitment to public service.

Its Tri-Conference 2025 bared an overall theme of “Constancy, Change and Co-existence.” The weeklong hybrid TriCon was an international conference featuring three conferences: the International Conference on Open and Distance eLearning (ICODeL), the International Symposium on Education and AI Convergence (ISEAC), and the International Symposium for ASEAN Studies (ISAS).

Universities braved interconnected adversities and had to stand the tests of time, with the UPOU realizing “multidisciplinary to pluridisciplinary solutions, with special emphasis on issues related to sustainable education, one health, and threats in digital landscapes.”

Done for the event were ASEAN member countries’ creative and research works such as films, multimedia materials, and research that reflected respective country narratives and cultures. Sub-themes and topics of presenters included:

·        Entrepreneurship, Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation in ASEAN

·        Indigenous Peoples, Children, Gender, Social Inclusion, and Empowerment in ASEAN

·        Disaster Management, Climate Change, and ASEAN Community Resilience

·        Sustainable Cultural Heritage, Traditions, and Popular Culture in ASEAN

·        ASEAN Sustainable Cities and Communities

·        ASEAN Food Security, Nutrition, and Health

(Sessions were available on the dashboard on their scheduled day/s.)

Philippine Star entertainment writer/editor Jerry Donato, MDC and Alessandra “Apples” Jalandoni, DComm who worked as a reporter, producer, and public affairs show host with various broadcasting networks, most notably ABS-CBN News, engaged with fellow UPOU graduates attending the affair online and onsite with respective keynotes “Building Bridges, Creating Futures: The Alumni Advantage” and “Legacy and Leadership: Redefining Success Through Community.”

Leading the alumni social event dubbed “Coming Home: Reuniting, Reviving, and Rebuilding” was Tanya Capuli, MA, while success stories were heard from guest speakers Rheo Umil, CPA, and Dr. Elvira Catangay.

Early on, the ASEAN Community Gallery and Fair and other Exhibits were launched at the UPOU CCDL Auditorium. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Dr. Bandalaria, Dr. Serrano, and Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration and Chair of the UPOU 30th Anniversary Committee, Dr. Jean A. Saludadez. They welcomed hundreds of participants and guests.

Founded on February 23, 1995, the UPOU has evolved over the years as this public research university pioneered online teaching and learning and continues to play a leading role in the study and practice of open learning and distance education. It is the fifth constituent university of the UP System, students of which are mostly based in the Philippines but all curricular offerings can be taken in any country.

The future of UoF

In recent years, the UPOU conducted a series of roundtable discussions about UoF or the University of the Future. Roughly six years ago, Dr. Bandalaria had an outstanding contribution in unpacking it when she said at a National Conference on Open and Distance eLearning (NCODeL):

“(UoF) pushes the forefront of important concepts like future-proof degrees and future-ready leaders with ethical and open science perspectives. When we talk of future-proof degrees, we refer to the basic qualifications of training that would facilitate the individuals to undergo career shifts throughout his or her lifetime and would serve as foundations for life-long learning. Economies say young people should plan for five careers in a lifetime so are we preparing our students and our graduates towards that. In short, are the degrees we are offering future-proof? Three years ago, the World Economic Forum predicted that 65 percent of primary school-aged children will end up working in jobs that don’t yet exist so how are we preparing our universities for that kind of scenario? Considering the dynamics that impact education, future group degrees call for a future-proof education system that has the essence of education 6.0 the way we articulated it and which can be described—for me, at least in my own articulation of it—as education with a conscience.”

Remember that she imparted that in 2019; the next months thereafter, we had a worldwide trend of pandemic-induced (tertiary) school shutdowns. Well, what we heard/read from the likes of Chancellor Bandalaria should have prompted all of us, not just education authorities, to really, really be ready for the future. Notwithstanding all the love in the world, all of us had our collective failure in 2020-2021 in terms of the maintenance of or return to academic normalcy.

Conceptual. And yet:

Is it not scientifically prophetic? For an ambitious project such as UoF, laurels are in order. Tatak UP. Mabuhay ang Open University.

Philippine-US defense pacts to remain intact, says envoy

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Philippine-US defense pacts to remain intact, says envoy

MANILA. The long-standing defense agreements between the Philippines and the United States will remain unchanged under U.S. President Donald Trump, according to Manila’s ambassador to Washington, Jose Manuel Romualdez. Speaking on Monday at a foreign media forum in Manila, Romualdez reaffirmed the strength of the alliance between the two nations despite shifts in U.S. foreign policy.

“The United States and the Philippines have always been staunch defense allies,” Romualdez stated, highlighting the continued rotation of U.S. troops in the country and the annual joint military exercises between the two nations. When asked about the future of U.S. security support for the Philippines, including military financing, maritime patrols in the South China Sea, and access to Philippine defense facilities under the alliance, he responded, “All of that will remain.”

Strengthened Military Support and Security Assistance

The Trump administration recently released $5.3 billion in previously frozen foreign aid, including $336 million allocated for the modernization of the Philippine security forces. Romualdez emphasized that this funding underscores Washington’s commitment to Manila’s defense needs. “We’re hopeful that the succeeding monies will be made available to us in the next couple of years,” he said, referring to the $500 million pledge from the United States last year to support the Philippine military and coast guard amid increasing Chinese assertiveness in the disputed waters of the South China Sea.

In addition to financial aid, the United States has deployed a Typhon multipurpose missile system to the Philippines for training exercises. The move has drawn criticism from China, which claims that such deployments threaten regional stability. Despite this, Romualdez expressed confidence in the continued U.S. support for the Philippines and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Potential Meeting Between Marcos and Trump

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is prepared to travel to Washington for a meeting with President Trump once scheduling allows, possibly in the spring. This meeting is expected to further solidify defense and economic ties between the two nations.

Trade Negotiations and Economic Cooperation

Romualdez also highlighted ongoing trade discussions between Manila and Washington. He noted that the Philippines aims to increase its import of liquefied natural gas from the U.S. as part of a broader economic exchange. “Trump’s idea of what the United States wants to do is helping other countries become a real partner,” Romualdez explained. The Philippines is looking for a “give and take” approach in trade negotiations to ensure mutually beneficial agreements.

His remarks come as Southeast Asian nations, including Vietnam and Thailand, scramble to adjust their trade policies following Trump’s directive to review all U.S. trade relationships by April 1.

Impact on U.S. Aid Projects in the Philippines

Despite strengthened military cooperation, the freeze order on certain U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) funds could affect 29 ongoing projects in the Philippines, valued at over $600 million. These projects span critical sectors such as health, education, and economic development.

Finance Undersecretary Domini Velasquez stated that the Philippine government is actively exploring alternative financing sources to ensure the continuation of these initiatives. “The government is in discussions with other bilateral partners and state agencies to secure the necessary funding,” Velasquez said.

As Manila navigates its evolving security and economic partnership with Washington, Romualdez remains optimistic that the alliance will continue to strengthen, balancing defense commitments with economic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

UK, European leaders unite to draft Ukraine peace plan for U.S. review

EDGARDO HERNAL
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UK, European leaders unite to draft Ukraine peace plan for U.S. review

LONDON. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Sunday that European leaders have agreed to draft a Ukraine peace plan to present to the United States, aiming to secure Washington’s support for security guarantees that Kyiv deems essential in deterring Russia.

At a summit in London, held just two days after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s contentious meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, European leaders reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine and pledged to enhance their assistance. The discussions underscored the need for increased defense spending to demonstrate to Trump that Europe is capable of self-defense. Additionally, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen suggested easing debt-related restrictions to facilitate these efforts.

Formation of a “Coalition of the Willing”

Welcoming a visibly shaken Zelenskiy with a warm embrace, Starmer revealed that Britain, Ukraine, France, and other allied nations would form a “coalition of the willing” to formulate a viable peace proposal.

“This is not a moment for more talk. It’s time to act. Time to step up and lead and to unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace,” Starmer emphasized.

Although details of the plan remain undisclosed, French President Emmanuel Macron had earlier indicated in an interview with Le Figaro that it could include a one-month ceasefire affecting air and sea attacks but not ground combat. Macron also suggested the potential deployment of European troops should a more comprehensive peace deal materialize, though it remains uncertain whether other nations have agreed to these terms.

Following the summit, Zelenskiy expressed his optimism, stating, “There will be diplomacy for the sake of peace. And for the sake of us all being together – Ukraine, all of Europe, and America.”

Ukraine’s Stance on Peace Talks

Zelenskiy reaffirmed that Ukraine would not cede any territory to Russia as part of any peace agreement. He also reiterated his willingness to finalize a minerals trade deal with the United States, despite recent tensions.

Regarding his heated exchange with Trump, Zelenskiy suggested that their relationship could still be salvaged but emphasized that future discussions must occur in private. “The format of what happened, I don’t think it brought something positive or additional to us as partners,” he remarked.

Europe’s Urgency in Securing U.S. Support

Concerns have mounted among European leaders that Kyiv may be sidelined in negotiations after Trump’s Oval Office clash with Zelenskiy heightened fears of a U.S. withdrawal from Ukraine’s defense. European officials stress that increasing defense expenditures is critical to securing U.S. backing in the event of a peace agreement.

“After a long time of underinvestment, it is now of utmost importance to step up the defense investment for a prolonged period,” von der Leyen stated, adding that Europe must transform “Ukraine into a steel porcupine that is indigestible for potential invaders.”

Trump’s Unpredictability and Its Impact on Ukraine

Europe, which lacks the extensive military and ammunition reserves of the United States, is working to convince Trump that it can sustain its defense but that a credible peace deal requires U.S. involvement. Talks with Washington have focused on securing an American safety net for European peacekeeping efforts, potentially involving air support, intelligence sharing, and a more significant deterrent against Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Trump, who has drastically altered U.S. foreign policy since returning to office, has cast doubt on American military and political commitments to Ukraine. In a Truth Social post late Sunday, he wrote: “We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country – So that we don’t end up like Europe!”

Trump’s unilateral moves—such as calling Putin without prior notice and dispatching a U.S. delegation to Saudi Arabia for discussions with Russia without consulting Ukraine or Europe—have alarmed European leaders. Furthermore, he has falsely implied that Kyiv initiated the conflict and recently criticized Zelenskiy for lacking gratitude for U.S. aid.

European Leaders Seek to Keep Kyiv at the Table

Determined to prevent Ukraine from being excluded from future negotiations, European leaders agreed to work towards ensuring Kyiv’s participation in any peace discussions and strengthening its defense capabilities.

“Europe must do the heavy lifting, but to support peace in our continent and to succeed, this effort must have strong U.S. backing,” Starmer emphasized in a press conference.

As a further demonstration of support for Ukraine, Zelenskiy traveled to meet King Charles at his private residence in eastern England on Sunday. Meanwhile, Trump administration officials continued their critique of Zelenskiy, with White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz stating in a CNN interview that the U.S. requires a Ukrainian leader willing to broker a lasting peace with Russia—questioning whether Zelenskiy fits that role.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov commended Trump’s “common sense” approach, accusing European nations of prolonging the war by propping up Zelenskiy “with their bayonets in the form of peacekeeping units.”

With the geopolitical landscape shifting, European leaders remain steadfast in their push for a united front to secure peace—one that includes Kyiv, European allies, and, critically, the United States.

Di ko po alam’: Beauty contestant sa noontime show, ipinatawag ng Comelec

Venus L Peñaflor
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Di ko po alam’: Beauty contestant sa noontime show, ipinatawag ng Comelec

MAYNILA. Ipinatawag ng Commission on Elections (Comelec) ang isang beauty contestant mula sa isang noontime show matapos nitong umaming wala siyang alam tungkol sa ahensya.

Ayon kay Comelec Chairman George Garcia, nakatakdang dumating bukas, Marso 4, ang 20-anyos na contestant mula Pampanga upang pag-usapan ang isyu.

Sa naturang palabas, tinanong ng host ang kalahok kung ano ang mensahe niya para sa Comelec. Sumagot naman ito ng, “I’m sorry po, hindi ako masyadong knowledgeable sa Comelec,” at inamin ding hindi pa siya nakaboboto.

Sa kabila ng negatibong reaksyon sa social media, pinili ng Comelec na tingnan ito bilang isang pagkakataon upang palakasin ang edukasyong panghalalan.

“We fully understand her. Maaaring madami pa na katulad niya na kabataan o mga Filipino. It is our solemn duty to explain who we are and what we are doing,” ani Garcia.

Dagdag pa niya, “If she is converted as a believer, then we can perhaps do the same for others. Voter education is the key.”

Aminado rin si Garcia na may pagkukulang ang Comelec sa pagpapalaganap ng tamang impormasyon tungkol sa kanilang tungkulin. “For our full understanding as to why. It is our failure. We have to immediately rectify,” aniya.

Samantala, nag-trending ang insidente sa social media, kung saan umani ito ng iba’t ibang reaksiyon mula sa publiko—may mga tumutuligsa habang ang iba naman ay nanawagan ng mas malawak na kampanya sa pagbibigay-kaalaman tungkol sa kahalagahan ng pagboto.

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