Deadline Looms for Nominations to Order of National Artist

June 26, 2024 -The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), together with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), reminds the public that the deadline for nominations to the Order of National Artist is fast approaching. Nominations must be submitted by June 30, 2024.

The Order of National Artist, or Orden ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining, is the highest recognition bestowed upon Filipino individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the country's arts and culture. Fields considered include Architecture and Allied Arts, Dance, Design, Film and Broadcast Arts, Literature, Music, Theater, and Visual Arts.

Who Can Nominate?

Nominations can be submitted by government and non-government cultural organizations, educational institutions, and private foundations.

How to Nominate

Nominations can be submitted in physical or electronic format. Nominees can only be nominated under one category, where they have made their most significant contribution. However, their other achievements will be considered in the final selection.

The nomination package should include:

• A cover letter with a board resolution approving the nomination.
• A completed nomination form.
• The nominee's detailed CV with contact information.
• A list of the nominee's significant works.
• A high-resolution photograph of the nominee.
• Supporting materials like video documentation, published reviews, etc.
• Contact details of a presenter who can discuss the nominee's qualifications.

For more information on submission guidelines and selection criteria, please visit the National Commission for the Culture and Arts website.

All inquiries and nominations should be submitted to:

The Order of National Artist Secretariat onaa@ncca.gov.ph 8-5272192 local 507

Don't miss this chance to recognize a Filipino artist who has enriched our nation's cultural heritage!

Civil Defense PH Hosts Online Symposium on Earthquake Preparedness for Greater Metro Manila

June 26, 2024 - The Philippine Office of Civil Defense (OCD), also known as Civil Defense PH, is holding a virtual symposium tomorrow, June 27th, 2024, at 9:00 AM aimed at educating residents of Greater Metro Manila on earthquake preparedness.

The symposium, titled "The Big One Preparedness: Greater Metro Manila Stakeholders’ Symposium," is free and open to the public via livestream on the Civil Defense PH Facebook page. Those interested in participating can register beforehand using the provided QR code or by following this link: https://bit.ly/EPS2024REG

Symposium Agenda

The symposium will cover a range of topics crucial for earthquake preparedness in Greater Metro Manila, including:

• Understanding the Impact of a Magnitude 7.2 Earthquake: This session will likely delve into the scientific aspects of earthquakes, explaining how a 7.2 magnitude earthquake can affect buildings, infrastructure, and the overall landscape of the region.
• National and Regional Earthquake Preparation Plan: This section will provide details on the existing plans in place at the national and regional levels to manage the aftermath of a major earthquake.
• The Greater Metro Manila Area Command and Control: This session will likely explain the specific protocols and chain of command that will be implemented in the event of an earthquake within Metro Manila.
• The Salient Points of the Building Code of the Philippines: Understanding building codes is crucial for ensuring the safety of structures during an earthquake. This session will likely highlight the key provisions of the National Building Code, focusing on aspects like earthquake-resistant design and construction practices.

Importance of Earthquake Preparedness

The Philippines is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its high volcanic and seismic activity. Greater Metro Manila, with its dense population and numerous high-rise buildings, is particularly vulnerable to earthquakes.

By participating in this symposium, residents of Greater Manila can gain valuable knowledge on how to prepare for and respond to a major earthquake. This knowledge can help save lives and minimize damage in the event of a disaster.

Additional Tips for Earthquake Preparedness

In addition to attending the symposium, here are some general tips for earthquake preparedness:

• Develop a family earthquake plan and practice it regularly.
• Assemble an emergency kit that includes food, water, first-aid supplies, and other essentials.
• Secure furniture and other heavy objects to walls to prevent them from falling during an earthquake.
• Learn how to shut off utilities like gas and electricity in case of damage.
• Stay informed about earthquake safety measures and evacuation procedures in your area.

By taking proactive steps towards earthquake preparedness, residents of Greater Metro Manila can help ensure their safety and the safety of their loved ones in the event of a major earthquake.

DILG Orders PNP Probe on SWAT Team's Presence at Private Event

June 26, 2024 - Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. has directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to investigate the reported presence of a SWAT team from Batangas during a recent networking company soft launch in Pasig City.

Secretary Abalos confirmed receiving reports and photos showing members of the SWAT team in uniform, some even carrying firearms, at the private event.

"Nag-isyu na ako ng direktiba sa Hepe ng Philippine National Police para agarang imbestigahan ito [I have already issued a directive to the Chief PNP for an immediate investigation into this]," Abalos said in a statement. "Aasahan ko ang ulat ng PNP sa lalong madaling panahon [I expect a report from the PNP as soon as possible]."

The DILG chief emphasized that the department will not tolerate the deployment of active police personnel for private purposes, including serving as escorts at private events.

"The DILG will not tolerate the deployment of our active police personnel as private escorts or for purely private purposes," Abalos stressed. "Rest assured that, under my watch, our police force is and will remain laser-focused on their legal mandate to ensure peace and order."

The investigation is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the SWAT team's presence at the event and determine any potential policy violations.

Security Bank to Conduct Scheduled System Maintenance Affecting InstaPay

June 26, 2024 - Security Bank informs its customers about a scheduled system maintenance that will temporarily affect its InstaPay service. The maintenance will take place tonight, Wednesday, June 26, 2024, from 11:00 PM until Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 2:00 AM.

During this time, customers will be unable to initiate InstaPay transactions through Security Bank Online (mobile and web). InstaPay is a popular interbank funds transfer service in the Philippines that allows for real-time money transfers between participating banks.

Security Bank recommends that customers schedule their InstaPay transactions before 11:00 PM tonight or after 2:00 AM on Thursday, June 27th, to avoid any inconvenience. The bank apologizes for any disruption this may cause and assures its customers that they are working to improve their systems to provide better service.

Security Bank System Maintenance - Facts and Additional Information

• This scheduled system maintenance only affects InstaPay transactions via Security Bank Online. Other banking services, such as checking account balances, bill payments, and debit card transactions, may still be available during this time.
• Customers can contact Security Bank's customer service hotline at (02) 847-9999 or visit their website at www.securitybank.com.ph for more information on InstaPay or other banking services.
• Security Bank conducts regular system maintenance to ensure the smooth operation and security of its online banking platform. These maintenances are usually scheduled during off-peak hours to minimize disruption to customers.

By planning their transactions ahead of time, Security Bank customers can avoid any inconvenience caused by this scheduled system maintenance.

AGFO Lauds Philippine Navy's Resolve After China's "Unwarranted" Harassment in West Philippine Sea

June 26, 2024 - The Association of Generals and Flag Officers (AGFO) of the Philippines commended the Philippine Navy's professionalism and bravery during a recent resupply mission in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) that was met with harassment by Chinese vessels.

According to the AGFO statement, the Philippine Navy faced "escalatory actions" from the China Coast Guard (CCG) and China Maritime Militia (CMM) during the mission. These actions reportedly included water cannon attacks and a ramming incident, resulting in a wounded Filipino sailor.

The AGFO strongly condemned the actions of the CCG and CMM, calling them "unwarranted," "piratical," and a violation of international protocols. They further emphasized the lack of honor displayed by the Chinese forces, stating it was "unchivalrous in the honorable profession of arms."

The statement expressed support for the Philippine government's stance on asserting its sovereign rights in the WPS. It also urged the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to prioritize the protection of its frontline personnel.

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between China and the Philippines over the West Philippine Sea. China claims a large portion of the sea, despite a ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague that recognizes the Philippines' rights within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The Philippines has consistently accused China of harassing and intimidating Filipino fishermen and military personnel in the disputed waters.