{"id":1508,"date":"2026-05-21T15:27:26","date_gmt":"2026-05-21T07:27:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mbm.com.ph\/?p=1508"},"modified":"2026-05-21T15:27:26","modified_gmt":"2026-05-21T07:27:26","slug":"balitang-marino-daily-news-for-may-21-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mbm.com.ph\/index.php\/2026\/05\/21\/balitang-marino-daily-news-for-may-21-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"BALITANG MARINO DAILY NEWS for May 21, 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

HEADLINES<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Iran’s newly-created strait authority discloses ‘controlled maritime zone’ at Hormuz<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Japan oil refiners expect to secure enough supply to replace Middle East crude for summer<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Third VLCC Exits Strait of Hormuz<\/p>\n\n\n\n

IMO Releases Revised Rescue Guide<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seafarer Stabbed and Dies on Tanker Waiting for Scrapper off Bangladesh<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8 dams below normal; 6 more at critical levels<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SC rejects Bato plea for TRO vs ICC arrest<\/p>\n\n\n\n

National Maritime Council condemns presence of Chinese research vessels in PH waters<\/p>\n\n\n\n

VP Sara Duterte has until June 1 to answer Articles of Impeachment<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PH donates 40 portable generators to Ukrainian communities<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Establishments urged to accept digital senior citizen IDs<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fair weather, chance of sudden rains expected across PH Thursday<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More fire incidents recorded in 2026 than last year – BFP<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SB19\u2019s 1Z Entertainment finally debuts first girl group XONARA<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Paul Soriano attends Cannes premiere of Hollywood noir film \u2018Diamond\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gabbi Carballo brings \u2018Sinulog\u2019 to Miss Eco International 2026 in Egypt<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PBA: Rain or Shine edges out Ginebra in dramatic Game 1 finish<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Knicks rally from 22 points down to stun Cavs in NBA East finals opener<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caloocan grabs solo lead as Cebu, Quezon City prevail in MPBL<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Smart Strategies for Conserving Water and Reducing Utility Costs<\/p>\n\n\n\n

FULL NEWSPAPER<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

INTERNATIONAL NEWS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Iran’s newly-created strait authority discloses ‘controlled maritime zone’ at Hormuz<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

May 21 —— Iran’s newly created Persian Gulf Strait Authority said in a post on X that there will be a “controlled maritime zone” at the Strait of Hormuz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The authority, which was set to manage the strait, set the zone as the “line connecting Kuh-e Mobarak in Iran and southern Fujairah in the UAE at the eastern side of the strait, to the line connecting the end of Qeshm Island in Iran and Umm Al Quwain in the UAE at the western side of the strait.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It said transit through the area to pass through the strait would require coordination and authorization from the authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: gmanetwork.com <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Japan oil refiners expect to secure enough supply to replace Middle East crude for summer<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TOKYO, May 21 —— Japanese oil refiners will be able to secure sufficient substitute crude and petroleum products \u200bto replace Middle Eastern supplies through the summer, the head an industry association said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shunichi Kito, president of the Petroleum Association of Japan, said that U.S. crude is becoming the main substitute while efforts \u200bcontinue to procure crude from Saudi Arabia and the UAE \u200bvia routes that bypass the Strait of Hormuz. Some Japanese \u2060companies are sourcing crude from Latin America, including Mexico, Ecuador, and \u200bVenezuela, as well as from Alaska and Russia’s Sakhalin-2. “We are responding through \u200ba combination of drawing down national reserves and sourcing alternative supplies,” Kito said. “We expect no procurement problems during the peak summer demand season.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kito noted that very \u200blarge crude carriers (VLCCs) cannot transit the Panama Canal when transporting U.S. \u200bcrude, forcing some shipments to travel via the Cape of Good Hope, a journey \u2060about 55 days – more than twice as long as the Middle East route. The longer route would significantly raise costs, leaving refiners with little choice but to pass them on to customers, he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before the \u200bU.S.-Israeli war on \u200bIran blocked most \u2060oil transport through the Strait, Japan relied on the Middle East for about 95% of its crude \u200bimports. It will need to cut that dependence over the \u200blong term, \u2060Kito said. Refiners are currently analyzing the properties of alternative crude grades, adjusting blending ratios, and refining them within existing equipment constraints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Going forward, Japan \u2060will need \u200bto strengthen crisis preparedness through a \u200bcombination of procurement diversification, refinery modifications, and expanded use of non-fossil fuels such as biofuels, \u200bhe said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: reuters.com <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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MARITIME NEWS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Third VLCC Exits Strait of Hormuz<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

May 21 —— Three supertankers were crossing the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday carrying oil bound for Asian markets, after waiting in the Gulf for more than two months with 6 million barrels of Middle East crude on board, while another was entering, shipping data on LSEG and Kpler showed. The ships are among a handful of supertankers exiting the Gulf this month via a transit route that Iran has ordered ships to use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S.-Israeli war on Iran which began on February 28 has severely curtailed shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, through which around one-fifth of the world’s supply of oil and energy normally flows. South Korean-flagged Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) Universal Winner, carrying 2 million barrels of Kuwaiti crude loaded on March 4, was exiting the strait following the departure of two Chinese tankers on Wednesday, the data showed. Kpler data showed the tanker is heading to Ulsan, where the country’s largest refiner SK Energy is located, to discharge its cargo on June 9.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SK Energy declined to comment. A spokesperson for HMM, the owner and manager of the VLCC, could not be immediately reached for comment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SHIPPING RISKS<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before the war began, shipping traffic through the strait averaged 125 to \u2060140 daily passages, and 20,000 seafarers remain stranded inside the Gulf on board hundreds of ships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shipping traffic has averaged 10 vessels going into and out of the strait in recent days and has included cargo vessels and other ships such as chemical and liquefied petroleum tankers, with crude oil tankers still representing a small proportion of the total volume, according to Reuters analysis based on ship tracking data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Around 10 ships crossed the strait in the past 24 hours and included small cargo ships and a chemical tanker crossing into the Gulf, according to data from Kpler and satellite analysis from data analytics specialists SynMax. “The operating environment remains high risk based upon recent attacks on ships in the area,” the U.S. Navy-led Joint Maritime Information Center said in a note on Tuesday. “Multiple instances of aggressive hailing and assertive action by Iranian units have been noted in the last 48 hours.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shipping industry associations on Wednesday issued new guidance for ships looking to sail through the strait, pointing to multiple navigational hazards, including the risk of being attacked, the threat of drones and mines but also unpredictable traffic congestion and “reduced military oversight”. “Hundreds of vessels remain unable to transit the Strait of Hormuz and, in the event of a return to more normal navigation conditions, the movement of all those vessels within the Strait could represent a considerable navigational hazard,” the associations said in the guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CHINESE TANKERS<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chinese-flagged VLCC Yuan Gui Yang loaded 2 million barrels of Iraqi Basrah crude on February 27, a day before the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran started, the data showed. The vessel, chartered by Unipec, the trading arm of Asia’s largest refiner Sinopec 600028.SS, which exited the strait earlier on Wednesday, is expected to reach Shuidong Port near Maoming city in southern Guangdong province on June 4 to discharge its cargo, according to the data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hong Kong-flagged VLCC Ocean Lily loaded 1 million barrels each of Qatari al-Shaheen and Iraqi Basrah crude between late February and early March, the data showed. The vessel, owned by Chinese major Sinochem, is expected to reach Quanzhou Port in eastern Fujian province on June 5 to discharge its cargo. Sinopec, Sinochem and Cosco Shipping, which own and manage Yuan Gui Yang, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Last week, VLCC Yuan Hua Hu exited the strait with 2 million barrels of Iraqi oil and headed for eastern China’s Zhoushan Port.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Separately, Cypriot-flagged VLCC Grand Lady has entered the Strait of Hormuz with its transponder off, LSEG data showed. The empty tanker is anchored off Dubai, LSEG data showed. The tanker’s manager Eastern Mediterranean Maritime could not be immediately reached for comment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SECURITY UPDATE<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maritime security company Windward reports that the United States seized the Iran-linked VLCC Skywave in the Indian Ocean overnight on May 19, marking at least the third U.S. seizure of an Iran-linked tanker since the start of the current enforcement campaign. OFAC separately designated 19 Iran-trading vessels under a second Operation Economic Fury action, including eight LPG tankers and four VLCCs, all flagged outside Iran and tied to corporate structures in China, Hong Kong, and the UAE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority went operationally live on May 18, converting the Strait from a disrupted transit corridor into a state-administered permit and toll regime. India, Iraq, and Pakistan have secured separate bilateral access arrangements outside the formal fee structure, with the operators paying PGSA tolls assessed as primarily Chinese-linked and UAE-managed gray and shadow fleet actors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: marinelink.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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IMO Releases Revised Rescue Guide<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

May 21 —— UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, the IMO, and the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) have released a revised Rescue Guide, a tool to help all partners uphold the humanitarian and legal duties to rescue refugees and migrants in distress at sea and bring them to safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The revised edition of Rescue at Sea: A guide to principles and practice in the context of refugee and migrant movements comes as tragic shipwrecks continue to highlight the urgent need for stronger collective action to prevent further loss of life among people fleeing danger or seeking better prospects. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the year marking the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention, the revised Guide underlines the continued relevance and life-saving impact of practical protection action, covering rescuing people in distress at sea, including refugees and migrants, and ensuring safe disembarkation in line with international law. The seas must be treated as a humanitarian space, and the duty to rescue people in distress at sea must be upheld without discrimination, the partners agreed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“There is an ongoing human tragedy of lives lost at sea during unsafe, dangerous journeys. We must recognize\u202fthe\u202ftireless efforts of coast guards, navies, search and rescue agencies, and merchant vessels in rescuing individuals in distress at sea\u202f\u2013\u202fpreventing\u202fan even higher death toll.\u202fEstablished legal obligations must be translated into concrete action at sea. This revised Guide ensures clarity for Governments and provides practical steps for shipmasters and crews,” said Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General, IMO. \u202f<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Nobody risks their life at sea, or that of their family, unless desperate to find safety and stability in the absence of safer pathways. Yet, these appalling wrecks cannot be accepted as inevitable. They are preventable,” said Elizabeth Tan, Director of UNHCR’s Division of International Protection and Solutions. “The revised Rescue Guide is a practical tool to help uphold one of the clearest moral and legal duties at sea: to rescue refugees and migrants in distress and bring them to safety. It reflects the shared commitment of UNHCR, IMO and the shipping sector, as well as humanitarian agencies and NGOs, to support States in their primary responsibility to save lives at sea.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2025, according to data from UNHCR, authorities and partners, the Mediterranean remained one of the world’s deadliest corridors, with 1,953 people reported dead or missing. The South and South-East Asia route saw 892 people recorded dead or missing, out of more than 6,500 Rohingya refugees who attempted perilous sea crossings that year, making this the route with the highest mortality rate worldwide for refugee and migrant sea journeys. Danger extends also around Africa, with the Western Africa Atlantic route claiming 424 lives last year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Building on the 2015 edition, the newly revised Rescue Guide provides more detailed guidance on applicable legal standards and practical procedures to ensure the prompt rescue and disembarkation of people in distress at sea in locations where they would not be exposed to risks, including the risk of refoulement. Available in six languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish), the Rescue Guide serves as a global, practical resource for shipmasters, ship owners, state authorities, insurance companies, and all actors engaged in maritime rescue operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“The global shipping industry is often the first responder when people are in distress at sea. Ship masters and crews act with professionalism and humanity, frequently going beyond their commercial duties to save lives. This revised Guide provides practical clarity to support those efforts, helping ensure that rescues are conducted safely, predictably, and in line with international law, while reinforcing the shared responsibility across States and stakeholders to deliver timely disembarkation,” said Thomas A. Kazakos, ICS Secretary General.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: marinelink.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Seafarer Stabbed and Dies on Tanker Waiting for Scrapper off Bangladesh<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

May 21 —— The authorities in Bangladesh are dealing with an apparent murder after two crewmembers got into what is being described as a \u201cserious onboard altercation.\u201d The local shipping agency appointed to handle the ship\u2019s arrival reports the police and local authorities are coordinating to handle the case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Thai-owned product tanker K.P.P. 01 (3,400 dwt) had departed Phuket, Thailand, for its final voyage heading to the scrap yards at Chattogram, Bangladesh. The vessel, which was built in 1991, is 85 meters (279 feet) and had a skeleton crew aboard from Thailand to deliver it to its final destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The small tanker anchored offshore on May 17. According to the report by the master, an oiler and an able seaman got into some type of fight, altercation, and the police were summoned to provide support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The oiler, Rapheephong Klahan age 30, was rushed to shore by his colleagues. He was met by a representative of the agency SAM Shipping Agency, who had brought an ambulance and medical personnel to the boat station. He was transferred to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries, reportedly multiple stab wounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The police and the agency boarded the vessel and took into custody an able seaman, Turakorn Burussee also from Thailand and age 35. He was handed over to the police, and he recorded a confessional statement. He has been remanded into judicial custody. The Royal Thai Embassy has been notified of the incident. They are cooperating and coordinating arrangements with the family in Thailand of the deceased crewmember.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: maritime-executive.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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PHILIPPINE NEWS      <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

8 dams below normal; 6 more at critical levels<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, Philippines, May 21 —— Extreme heat has pushed six dams in Western Visayas to critical levels while eight major dams in Luzon have also started to go below their normal water levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) yesterday, San Roque Dam has the largest gap at 227.3 meters against its normal water level at 280 m. Angat Dam is now at 177.05 m against its normal water level of 210 m and Pantabangan Dam is now at 187.97 m compared to its 216 m normal water level. Ipo Dam is at 100.04 m, slightly lower than its 101.1 m normal water level, La Mesa Dam is at 79.89 m against 80.15 m and Magat Dam at 182.78 against its normal level of 193 m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The bigger dams are also now below their normal water levels, with Ambuklao Dam at 740.82 m against its 752 m normal water level while Binga Dam is at 567.91 m compared to 575 m. GMA News reported that six dams in Western Visayas are now at critical water level. The dams reported were Barotac Viejo River Irrigation System, Panakuyan RIS dam, Sibalom Diversion Dam, Tipuluan Dam, Solong Dam and Mambusao RIS dam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The National Irrigation Administration said it is putting mitigation measures in place to help farms and farmers cope with the effects of the dry season. The Climate Change Commission said that water stress and prolonged dry periods are among the climate-related hazards that local government units must anticipate and address through science-based, forward-looking planning, particularly through the formulation and implementation of local climate change action plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: philstar.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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SC rejects Bato plea for TRO vs ICC arrest<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, Philippines, May 21 —— As Sen. Ronald dela Rosa\u2019s whereabouts remain unknown, the Supreme Court has rejected his petition for a temporary restraining order against his arrest on the strength of an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Voting 9-5-1, the Supreme Court justices denied Dela Rosa\u2019s petition for a TRO and status quo ante order. The SC clarified, however, that it \u201conly decided on the prayers for interim relief. The main issues raised by the parties in their pleadings and motions are yet to be resolved in the main case.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a press briefer, the SC said it would release its full resolution as well as the concurring and dissenting opinions of the justices on May 25. Malaca\u00f1ang said the SC ruling proved that the ICC arrest warrant is valid. \u201cAll possible interpretations and evaluations of the said resolution of the Supreme Court, we defer to (Justice) Secretary Fredderick Vida,\u201d Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But sought for comment, Vida said that \u201conly the Office of the President can make further pronouncements on the matter.\u201d His spokesman Polo Martinez said: \u201cThe OP shall clarify details and make further pronouncements on the matter.\u201d Asked whether the Palace now considers Dela Rosa a fugitive, Castro cited a previous statement from the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) calling the senator a fugitive from justice whose arrest would not need clearance from a local court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dela Rosa, through his lawyer Israelito Torreon, will file a motion for reconsideration. \u201cThe fight for due process, constitutional sovereignty and the lawful protection of every Filipino under Philippine courts, continues,\u201d Torreon said. \u201cFor Senator Dela Rosa, this case is not merely personal. It concerns the right of every Filipino to be protected by Philippine law, Philippine courts and by the guarantees of due process, liberty and sovereignty enshrined in the Constitution,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said he is deferring to the Department of Justice (DOJ) when asked if he would begin manhunt operations. \u201cThe SOJ (secretary of justice) is lead,\u201d Remulla said in a Viber message. Sought for comment, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Melvin Matibag said, \u201cI don\u2019t want to speculate,\u201d as he has not seen the ruling yet. \u201cThe NBI will have to see and study the resolution because first and foremost, only the interim relief was discussed,\u201d said the bureau\u2019s spokesman Palmer Mallari.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: philstar.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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National Maritime Council condemns presence of Chinese research vessels in PH waters<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, May 21 —— The National Maritime Council condemned the presence of Chinese maritime research vessels spotted in various areas within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to monitoring of the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea, at least four Chinese vessels were seen in Philippine waters. These include the Shi Yan 1 and Jia Geng seen near Itbayat in Batanes, the Zhuhaiyun seen 171 nautical miles from Bolinao, Pangasinan, and the Xiangyanghong 33 seen 140 nautical miles from Rizal, Palawan. “Ang mga naturang aktibidad ay ilegal at nilalabag ang mga probisyon ng UNCLOS particularly sa requirement na kinakailangan dapat may pahintulot ang isang foreign state o organisasyon mula sa nakakasakop na coastal state tulad ng Pilipinas bago magsagawa ng anumang scientific research o activities sa ating karagatan,” said Usec. Alexander Lopez, spokesperson of the National Maritime Council.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Xiangyanghong 33 was reported to be conducting scientific research near the Pag-asa Cays 2 and 3, which is within the territorial sea of Pag-asa Island. “Ang Xiangyanghong, mayroon siyang capacity na mag-conduct ng mga deep scientific research activities. Ito ay advanced oceanographic survey vessel na may kakayahang magsagawa ng comprehensive maritime ecological surveys, bathymetric mapping, hydrographic data collection at deep sea exploration,” Lopez told state TV. “In short, ito ay may kakayahang gumawa ng intelligence gathering activities sa ating karagatan kaya ito ay minu-monitor natin at hindi natin pinapahintulutan especially kung wala silang authority or clearance sa ating pamahalaan,” he added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lopez said this is concerning but not surprising as Chinese vessels are often seen within Philippine waters. He said the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea held a Maritime Domain Awareness Inter-Agency Operations to challenge the presence of the Chinese Vessels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

All Chinese vessels were told to exit the Philippine EEZ. “Wala naman tayong nakikitang increase ng mga vessels sa paligid ng Pag-asa. But, nonetheless, ito ay nakita natin noong nakaraang araw na dumami nga iyong mga presensya or presence ng Chinese Maritime Research vessels dito sa ating karagatan, especially doon sa northern part and the western part,” Lopez said. “Well, the most that we can do actually is monitor them and document their illegal activities and our ATF-West  and ATF-North Task Force on the West Philippine Sea to come up with a report at ito iyong mga report na gagawing basehan ng ating  Department of Foreign Affairs to file the necessary or the appropriate diplomatic protest,” he added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lopez clarified that they are not banning marine scientific research of foreign states in our maritime zones as long as it is permitted by the Philippine government. “Ang gagawin lang natin, again, para ma-assert natin ang ating presence or claim sa lugar ay, again, we encourage our fisherfolk na damhin nila ang kanilang presensiya sa mga lugar especially sa paligid ng Sandy Cay,” he said. “While it is a challenge on their part, dahil alam naman natin na nandoon iyong mga presensiya ng China Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels but nonetheless, we are asking or we are requesting our fisherfolk na maglagi doon at nandoon naman iyong tulong ng ating gobyerno,” he ended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: news.abs-cbn.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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VP Sara Duterte has until June 1 to answer Articles of Impeachment<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, May 21 —— The Senate Impeachment Court gave Vice President Sara Duterte until June 1 to file her answer to the Articles of Impeachment that the House sent to the Senate for trial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, the court’s presiding officer, announced this during the regular session of the Senate, saying the summons was served to the Office of the Vice President earlier in the day. The prosecution also received a copy on the same day, he said. “Under the applicable rules, respondent is given 10 calendar days from service of summons within which to file her answer,” he said, noting that since that would be a Saturday, the deadline will be on the Monday after that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He said that upon receipt of Duterte’s answer, the prosecution will have five days to respond “if they opt to do so.” He said he brought it up because the Senate has to discuss its schedule to accommodate impeachment court, committee hearings and other activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Duterte faces accusations that she misused her office’s confidential funds, issued threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his family, and amassed questionable wealth, among other allegations. She has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and has said the allegations are linked to electoral politics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

HOUSE PROSECUTOR HOPES FOR ‘SUBSTANTIAL’ ANSWERS FROM DUTERTE<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the House, a member of the prosecution panel said he hopes Duterte and her legal team will give “more substantial” answers to the accusations against her.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bicol Saro Party-List Rep. Terry Ridon said Duterte’s response at House hearings on impeachment complaints against her were “basically just a very short response to all of the allegations” that he said did not address specific points. “But our expectation now is they will still be raising jurisdictional and constitutional questions, which they actually did the last time. But also, they will have to\u2026 probably answer point per point [the] Articles of Impeachment already, only because this is the last opportunity for the vice president to actually answer all of the allegations.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ridon said the prosecution plans to present the Articles of Impeachment in this order:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– Article 4: Alleged grave threats<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– Article 2: Alleged unexplained wealth<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– Article 1: Alleged confidential fund misuse<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– Article 3: Alleged bribery<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He added the panel has “high confidence” that it can convince senator-judges to convict Duterte because of the strength of the alleged evidence against her. “You only need to secure one conviction on one article to basically remove the vice president from office… I think as we speak today, we are ready to present all of the grounds when we get the trial proper,” he added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

IMPEACHMENT CALENDAR<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meanwhile, the Senate has agreed to publish the trial calendar for the proceedings against the vice president. This, as there were no objections to the motion of Sen. Erwin Tulfo to publish the calendar that the Senate will decide in caucus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Senate adjourned its regular session earlier than usual Wednesday to pave the way for the caucus of all senators, where they will be briefed on impeachment proceedings by the Senate Secretariat. Tulfo inquired if the calendar will be published, noting that the public is “very interested in this trial.” “We’d rather have consensus rather than vote on it. But if we do have a consensus, please move that we announce it to the public,” Cayetano said. Tulfo moved for the calendar to be published, and with no objections, it was carried.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: news.abs-cbn.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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PH donates 40 portable generators to Ukrainian communities<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, May 21 —— The Philippines has turned over 40 6 kW class portable power generators to civilian communities in Ukraine, the Ukraine Embassy in Manila said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The donation, facilitated by Senator Erwin Tulfo and supplied by Highball Traders, would be channeled via the rescEU Donations Scheme, a European Union program coordinating assistance from international donors to Ukraine. In a statement, the Embassy said the equipment would help stabilize power supply for essential non-military infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and other civilian facilities affected by disruptions to Ukraine\u2019s energy grid. \u201cThe Embassy of Ukraine extends its deepest gratitude to Senator Tulfo, Highball Traders Inc., Philippine Transmarine Carriers, KLN Logistics, the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in the Philippines, and the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines for their invaluable support in making this initiative possible,\u201d it said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ukrainian Ambassador to the Philippines Yuliia Fediv, for her part, described the gesture as a strong reflection of the humanitarian partnership between Ukraine and the Philippines. The Embassy said the generators are exclusively for civilian and humanitarian use, with no military or security-related application. The shipment will travel from the Philippines to the Port of Gdansk, Poland, where it will be received by the Governmental Strategic Reserves Agency of Poland (RARS) for onward delivery to Ukraine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: pna.gov.ph<\/p>\n\n\n\n

———————- <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Establishments urged to accept digital senior citizen IDs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, Philippines, May 21 —— The National Commission of Senior Citizens reminded government offices, banks, financial institutions and private establishments to recognize the digital National Senior Citizens ID (NSCID) as valid proof of identity for elderly Filipinos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The NCSC, said senior citizens presenting their digital IDs should continue receiving discounts, value-added tax exemptions and other privileges granted under the law. In an advisory, the agency called on establishments and offices to recognize and accept the digital NSCID in all transactions and urged them to \u201cstrengthen awareness and compliance to prevent inconvenience and discrimination against older Filipinos.\u201d \u201cWe call on all institutions and establishments to accept the digital NSCID in accordance with the law, similar to other government IDs available through the eGovPH App,\u201d NCSC chairperson and chief executive officer Ma. Merceditas Gutierrez said. \u201cThe digital National Senior Citizens ID is an official and legitimate government-issued identification designed to make services more accessible and convenient for our senior citizens,\u201d she added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Accessible through the eGovPH app, the digital ID may be used to avail of the 20% discount and value-added tax exemption on medicines, food, transportation and other covered goods and services under NCSC Public Advisory No. 1, series of 2026. The digital ID may also be presented when accessing government assistance programs, benefits and priority accommodations in public and private establishments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Senior citizens may also use the digital NSCID for banking and other financial claims or in transactions where a senior citizen ID is required or commonly accepted, according to the NCSC. Gutierrez said wider recognition of the digital ID would help prevent inconvenience and discrimination against older Filipinos claiming benefits and privileges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The digital NSCID was launched by the NCSC and the Department of Information and Communications Technology in August 2025 as part of the government\u2019s push for a secure, app-based system for senior citizen services and benefits. \u201cBy shifting from physical IDs to a secure, app-based solution, the initiative minimizes bureaucratic hurdles, enhances service delivery, and reduces dependency on physical documentation,\u201d the NCSC said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As of April 2026, more than 1.3 million senior citizens have accessed their digital NSCID through the eGovPH app, according to the NCSC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: philstar.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Fair weather, chance of sudden rains expected across PH Thursday<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, May 21 —— Warm weather will continue to prevail across most parts of the country as the easterlies remain the dominant weather system affecting Luzon and the Visayas, the weather bureau said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its 4 a.m. forecast, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Metro Manila, the rest of Luzon, and the Visayas will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms caused by the easterlies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mindanao will similarly experience partly cloudy to cloudy conditions with isolated rain showers but driven by localized thunderstorms. Despite the general warmth, the weather agency warned the public that severe thunderstorms could trigger sudden flash floods or landslides in vulnerable areas. Meanwhile, coastal waters across the archipelago, including Northern Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao, are expected to remain slight to moderate, as light to moderate winds blow from the east, northeast, and southeast. The sun rises at 5:27 a.m. and sets at 6:18 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: pna.gov.ph<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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More fire incidents recorded in 2026 than last year – BFP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, May 21 —— More fire incidents have been recorded in 2026 compared to the same period last year, the spokesperson of the Bureau of Fire Protection said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Speaking at the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon of state television PTV, Fire Superintendent Anthony Arroyo said fire incidents significantly increased on the first five months of the year. “Kung titingnan natin iyong sunog as to date kumpara sa nakaraang taon ay tumaas ito ng 42 percent, ibig sabihin, nakapagtala na tayo ng sunog ng 9,451 compared sa 6,675 lang noong nakaraan, same period,” Arroyo said. However, fire incidents in Metro Manila dropped by 17 percent, which meant more fire incidents were recorded in the provinces. “So, ang nakikita natin dito, ang dumaming sunog po ay outside of NCR or National Capital Region, ito po ay mga non-structural fire, tumaas po ng halos 67 percent ang non-structural fire, ito po iyong mga forest fire, gas fire at iba pang mga kahalintulad na sunog,” the BFP spokesperson said. “Kasi masasabi natin, may direct talaga na correlation ang dami ng sunog sa average heat index sa buong bansa base sa datos ng inyong BFP at ng PAGASA kasi kung titingnan natin, tumaas talaga ang sunog noong Marso, Abril at kahit itong Mayo dahil nga sa init ng panahon,” he added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arroyo said that while the hot weather contributed to more fire incidents, the top cause of blazes in the country is still electrical wires. “Ang pangunahing sunog pa rin ay dahil sa electrical causes at kung mapapansin natin, kahit bumaba ang number of fire incident dito sa NCR, pero ang lalaki naman ng insidente ng sunog, mga conflagration usually, dahil po nangyayari ang madalas na conflagration sa mga densely populated areas,” Arroyo told state TV. “So, madalas po iyan, iyong mga overloaded na electrical system natin at hindi maiiwasan talaga. Marami pa rin po ang nag-i-illegal na koneksyon o iyong jumper sa mga informal settlers,” he added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The BFP urged the public to stop illegal connections as these usually cause fire. “Kaya iyon po ang pakiusap namin, kapag may mga ganiyan lalo kapag sunog o kahit anong sakuna o anumang medical emergency, 911 agad ang tawagan para agaran kaming makaresponde,” he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: news.abs-cbn.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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ENTERTAINMENT NEWS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

SB19\u2019s 1Z Entertainment finally debuts first girl group XONARA<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

May 21 —— \u201cKung wala yung isa, wala po yung XONARA.\u201d That was how member Tin described rookie P-pop girl group XONARA during an exclusive media panel ahead of their official debut, as the group opened up about embracing their differences as part of their identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The seven-member act officially debuted on May 16 at Escolta St. through \u201cXONARA\u2019s World,\u201d where they premiered their debut single, Tabi. Despite only beginning their journey as artists, XONARA already drew a strong crowd of supporters who filled the historic street to welcome the group. Composed of Eurekah, Dominique, Lei, Ella, Tin, Namie, and Megumi, who each bring a distinct personality and experience into the act. \u201cOne thing Filipino audiences might love about XONARA is how genuine and authentic we are as a group,\u201d Lei said during the media panel. \u201cWe all have different personalities, different stories, and different styles, but we become one,\u201d Dominique said. The members\u2019 differences became something they learned to embrace instead of hiding. \u201cSobrang crazy po ng pagkakaiba namin, buti na lang nasa group tayo. We understand each other,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The members also spoke about finally reaching their debut after years of preparation, describing it as an emotional milestone. For Dominique, the debut day marked the end of a two-year wait under training. \u201cFinally! Dalawang taon po kaming nag-training para sa araw na \u2019to,\u201d she said. Ella, meanwhile, looked back on the challenges the group went through before making its debut. She said their journey was filled with rejections and difficult moments that led them to where they are now. \u201cThere are so many roads na may no po, and those roads led to this,\u201d she said. \u201cI\u2019m so blessed to be here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their experiences of persistence also define the group\u2019s identity, reflected in their name. According to Megumi, XONARA came from the words \u201cSonar,\u201d \u201cSora,\u201d and \u201cNarra.\u201d \u201cSonar\u201d represents the group\u2019s voices and stories, while \u201cSora\u201d was inspired by Tandang Sora and the courage she represented. \u201cNarra,\u201d meanwhile, refers to the Narra tree, symbolizing their grit and resilience. \u201cThe X represents limitless possibilities for us girls. It also stands for you, me, and everybody,\u201d Megumi explained. The members said the same idea of inclusivity eventually became part of Tabi, which first started as a training assignment before becoming their official debut track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The title carries several meanings. In Bisaya, \u201ctabi\u201d can refer to something worth talking about. In Japanese, it means journey, while in Filipino, it can mean to step aside or make space for someone beside you. \u201cPuwede niyo po kaming tabihan,\u201d Tin said. The members also participated in writing the song, which Eurekah described as an emotionally exhausting process because of constant revisions. \u201cSobrang daming revisions. Sobrang daming drafts,\u201d she recalled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Eurekah, she and Tin reached a point while writing the second verse where they no longer knew what else to add. \u201cUmabot sa point na umiiyak na po talaga kami. Yung feeling na ubos na ubos ka na, doon ako kumuha para masulat ko yung second verse,\u201d Eurekah said. Ella later shared that creating the track became one of the group\u2019s favorite parts of training. \u201cWe love our process, we love the craft po, and (we love) making music,\u201d she said. \u201cEach part of Tabi has its own story. We\u2019re so happy to share it with all of you, guys.\u201d When asked about the message they want listeners to take from Tabi, Namie said the track reflects both the group\u2019s beginnings and shared journey. \u201cTabi is about us po. Introduction po namin siya to who we are and what we went through po, like our journey,\u201d she said. Namie added that the song also carries a message for listeners to keep going despite challenges. \u201cSana ma-take po nila na message is it\u2019s okay to go through ups and downs as long as we keep moving forward and always believe in ourselves,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Musically, XONARA shared that they currently want to focus on hip-hop and R&B while staying open to exploring other genres in the future. \u201cStarting pa lang po si XONARA. Gusto po sana naming mag-focus po sa hip-hop and R&B for now,\u201d Eurekah said. \u201cPero, of course, we are open po in the future na mag-try po ng ibang genre.\u201d During the exclusive media panel, the members also spoke openly about insecurity and self-doubt throughout their trainee years. Tin got emotional as she recalled feeling like an underdog during training, given how different their backgrounds and experiences were. She admitted there were moments she doubted whether she would even debut with the group. \u201cI just showed up. Naniwala ako sa coaches namin, naniwala ako sa girls, naniwala po ako sa training namin and everything was worth it,\u201d she said. Tin shared that their coaches constantly reminded them not to compare themselves with others. \u201cYou don\u2019t have to compare your chapter one to someone\u2019s chapter 30,\u201d she said. \u201cAs long as you keep on going and showing up.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although the members dream of performing on international stages like Coachella one day, the group said they currently want to focus on connecting with Filipino listeners first. Dominique added that, regardless of where they perform, XONARA intends to give the same energy to every audience. \u201cLahat po ng stage papasukin namin. Walang maliit at walang malaki. Ibibigay po namin yung best namin,\u201d she said. For Megumi, staying grounded in their roots remains important as the group begins its journey. \u201cHome is truly where the heart is,\u201d she said. \u201cSobrang importante po sa amin na tangkilikin po ang sariling atin.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

XONARA is the first official P-pop girl group launched under 1Z Entertainment, the independent label co-founded by the \u201cKings of P-pop\u201d SB19.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: philstar.com <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Paul Soriano attends Cannes premiere of Hollywood noir film \u2018Diamond\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, Philippines, May 21 —— Filmmaker Paul Soriano walked the red carpet at the 79th Cannes Film Festival for the world premiere of \u201cDiamond,\u201d the Andy Garcia-led crime drama he co-produced alongside a powerhouse Hollywood cast. Soriano personally attended the premiere in Cannes, France, joining actor-director Andy Garcia, fellow producers Frank Mancuso Jr. and Jai Stefan, and members of the film\u2019s ensemble cast during the out-of-competition screening on the Croisette.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The film drew strong reactions from festival audiences, with Variety reporting that \u201cDiamond\u201d earned a seven-minute standing ovation after its premiere. Deadline later reported the applause stretched to nine minutes, describing the movie as Garcia\u2019s \u201cpassion project\u201d and a love letter to Los Angeles and classic film noir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Garcia wrote, directed, and stars in the contemporary noir as Joe Diamond, a private detective haunted by his past whose sharp instincts and uncanny powers of observation help him solve crimes that have stumped the LAPD. Garcia also co-composed the film\u2019s score with acclaimed jazz musician Arturo Sandoval. The movie features an ensemble cast that includes Dustin Hoffman, Brendan Fraser, Bill Murray, Demi\u00e1n Bichir, Danny Huston, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Yul Vazquez, Robert Patrick, and Rachel Ticotin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Variety, \u201cDiamond\u201d spent nearly 15 years in development and was shot across iconic Los Angeles locations, including the Bradbury Building and the Paramour Estate. Garcia reportedly conceived the story while helping his daughter with a school assignment inspired by Raymond Chandler-style detective fiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For Soriano, the Cannes premiere marks another major step in bringing Filipino talent into the international film arena. Known for directing films such as \u201cA Journey Home,\u201d \u201cThelma,\u201d \u201cKid Kulafu,\u201d and \u201cDukot,\u201d Soriano won Best Director and Best Screenplay honors at the Film Academy of the Philippines Awards in 2012 for \u201cThelma.\u201d He also co-produced “Magellan” by acclaimed Filipino filmmaker Lav Diaz. \u201cDiamond\u201d marks Garcia\u2019s return to Cannes for the first time since \u201cOcean\u2019s Thirteen\u201d screened at the festival in 2007.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: manilatimes.net <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Gabbi Carballo brings \u2018Sinulog\u2019 to Miss Eco International 2026 in Egypt<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

May 21 —— Cebuana beauty queen Gabriella \u201cGabbi\u201d Carballo referenced the religious Cebuano festival \u201cSinulog\u201d at the Miss Eco International 2026 pageant in Egypt. The practicing medical doctor brought her devotion to the Santo Ni\u00f1o on the global stage when she showcased a Sinulog-inspired creation by designer Kenneth Malayka Yamas at the pageant\u2019s carnival costume competition held at Rixos Montaza in Alexandria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAdorned with cascading roses, bougainvillea, and blooms inspired by Cebu\u2019s mountain towns, this costume is a tribute to the hardworking communities whose flowers fill our city with life and color,\u201d Carballo wrote on social media when she posted photos of her costume. \u201cMore than a costume, this is the heart of Cebu\u2014where every dance is a prayer, every flower is a blessing, and every step is a tribute to home,\u201d she added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Cebu City-based Carballo earlier pleaded to Filipinos in Alexandria who may have a Santo Ni\u00f1o (Child Jesus) image in their homes in Egypt for her presentation at the competition. At the show, she held humble bouquets of red flowers in each hand instead of the religious image. She failed to enter the Top 5 of the competition, which included the delegates from Peru, Canada, Egypt, Jamaica, and Mexico who eventually topped the costume contest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Cebuana delegate also did not secure a placement in the resort wear competition held earlier. She, however, placed second in both the Fitness Day Challenge and Talent Competition. Carballo is on a mission to sustain the Philippines\u2019 impressive placement streak in the Miss Eco International pageant that started in 2018 when Cynthia Thomalla posted the country\u2019s first-ever victory in the global tilt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She hopes to inherit the title from Ilongga national athlete Alexie Mae Brooks to post a second consecutive win for the Philippines and become the fourth Filipino woman to bring home the crown. Kathleen Paton scored the country\u2019s second win in 2022. The 2026 Miss Eco International pageant\u2019s coronation show will be held at the Presidential Ballroom of Antoniades Palace in Alexandria, Egypt, on May 22 (23 in Manila).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: inquirer.net <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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SPORTS NEWS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

PBA: Rain or Shine edges out Ginebra in dramatic Game 1 finish<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, May 21 —— Rain or Shine hacked out a 115-111 victory over Barangay Ginebra in a dramatic Game 1 finish to kick off their best-of-seven semifinals series in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, Rizal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Elasto Painters rode an 11-0 run late that put them up 113-107, after a Gian Mamuyac jumper with 38.1 seconds left on the fourth quarter clock. True to their “Never Say Die” spirit, the Gin Kings refused to bow out just yet. Scottie Thompson, despite injuring his head on Jhonard Clarito’s foot in the ensuing play, visibly suffering a lump on his forehead, sank a crucial four-pointer, 19.5 ticks, that kept themselves in the match at 113-111.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Clarito calmly drained freebies on the other side after a Thompson duty foul, 115-111, but the game wasn’t sealed just yet, as the Gin Kings were only one-possession behind. RJ Abarrientos, given the chance to tie the game, unfortunately airballed his attempt. Troy Rosario kept possession with an offensive board, but he was blocked by Clarito on his second-chance attempt. Just when they appeared to have settled the game, as coaches Tim Cone and Yeng Guiao have already shook their hands, the Barangay Ginebra tactician argued to the referees that there was still time left.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Upon review, there was still 0.5 seconds left \u2014 barely enough for a shot to be put up. With Ginebra retaining possession, Clarito then repeated his heroics, disrupting the inbound play from Thompson to Justin Brownlee as the Elasto Painters guarded the four-point line well to seal the deal and take the series opener. “Show up and compete,” said Guiao during the postgame press conference, sharing his reminder to his wards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ROS import Jaylen Johnson heeded the call, stuffing the stat sheet with a 40-piece, highlighted by back-to-back threes in the payoff period that enabled the Elasto Painters gain the advantage, to go with 19 rebounds and two steals. Also stepping up was Clarito, who finished with 25 points and six rebounds, while Mamuyac also had 18 markers and five dimes \u2014 both contributing in the intense endgame. On the other hand, Brownlee breached the 30-point mark with a 32-point outing of his own, to go along with five rebounds and five assists. Abarrientos chipped in 21 points and four rebounds, while Thompson concluded with 17 markers and seven boards. Both teams will meet again on Friday, May 22, for Game 2 of the series.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Scores:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RAIN OR SHINE 115 \u2013 Johnson 40, Clarito 25, Mamuyac 18, Nocum 16, Malonzo 12, Caracut 2, Manaytay 2, Santillan 0, Asistio 0, Villegas 0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GINEBRA 111 \u2013 Brownlee 32, Abarrientos 21, Thompson 17, Pinto 13, Gray 8, Holt 7, Rosario 7, J.Aguilar 4, Cu 2, Torres 0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

QUARTERS: 26-17, 42-49, 74-77, 115-111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: news.abs-cbn.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Knicks rally from 22 points down to stun Cavs in NBA East finals opener<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

NEW YORK, May 21 —— The New York Knicks, fueled by 38 points from Jalen Brunson, erased a 22-point fourth-quarter deficit to stun the Cleveland Cavaliers, 115-104, in overtime in Game 1 of the NBA Eastern Conference finals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Knicks looked done for when they trailed, 93-71, with 7:52 left in regulation. But Brunson spearheaded an 18-1 New York run and banked in a floater to tie it at 101-101 with 19.3 seconds left in regulation. When Cleveland’s Sam Merrill missed a three-pointer they went to the extra session \u2014 in which the Knicks scored the first nine points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brunson admitted he did not know how the Knicks had pulled off the sensational comeback. “I don’t have an answer for you,” he told broadcaster ESPN. “We got some stops. We kept fighting, kept believing, just kept chipping away. “They were playing great basketball and we just found a way.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mikal Bridges added 18 points, and OG Anunoby, back from a two-game injury absence, was one of three Knicks players with 13. Donovan Mitchell scored 29 points to lead the Cavaliers and James Harden added 15. The Knicks will have a chance to double their lead in the best-of-seven series when they host Game 2 on Thursday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The winner of the series will face either the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder or San Antonio Spurs in the championship series. The Spurs, fueled by a 41-point performance by Victor Wembanyama, beat the Thunder in double-overtime in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals. It is the first time in NBA history that the first games in both conference finals have been decided in overtime. Rust may have played a role in a sluggish Knicks start. New York had been off for nine days after sweeping the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Cavaliers, meanwhile, were battle tested if not rested, having polished off a second straight seven-game series with a triumph at top-seeded Detroit on Sunday. A three-pointer by Mitchell saw Cleveland emerge from a back-and-forth first half with a 48-46 lead, and the Cavaliers pulled away relentlessly in the second half as the Madison Square Garden crowd looked on in stunned, silent disbelief. But they were celebrating wildly by night’s end as the Knicks moved one step closer to their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. They reached the conference finals last year but were beaten by the Indiana Pacers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Cavaliers are in the conference finals for the first time since 2018, when they were led by LeBron James. Harden, 36, is back in the penultimate round for the first time since his 2018 Most Valuable Player season with Houston, when the Rockets fell in seven games to the Golden State Warriors. It was a crushing welcome to the conference finals for seven-time All-Star Mitchell, who never made it past the second round in five post-season appearances with the Utah Jazz. “We should have won the game,” Mitchell said. “We’re up 22 with god knows how much time? Eight minutes? Gotta win the game. We didn’t.” But he added there’s still plenty of time to regroup. “It’s one game,” Mitchell said. “We could have lost by 40, still would have been 1-0. We played pretty solid for three quarters or so. We’ll make adjustments and go from there.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: news.abs-cbn.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Caloocan grabs solo lead as Cebu, Quezon City prevail in MPBL<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MANILA, Philippines, May 21 —— The Caloocan Batang Kankaloo pounded the Valenzuela City Darkhorse without letup and prevailed, 97-58, to grab the solo lead in the SportsPlus MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season at the Caloocan Sports Complex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exploiting their height and heft advantage, the Batang Kankaloo dominated the boards, 53-38, and converted this to more points in the paint, 46-24, and more second-chance points, 27-6, that shoved them to their eighth straight win in the round-robin elimination phase of the two-division, 28-team tournament. The Batang Kankaloo also applied constant pressure, forcing the Darkhorse to commit 18 turnovers that paved the way for more fastbreak points, 26-8, and a huge 90-48 spread with 5 minutes and 33 seconds left.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kymani Ladi stood out for Caloocan with 13 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists, edging Jeff Manday, with 15 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals, for the SportsPlus best player honors. Rommel Calahat contributed 11 points and 4 rebounds, Jammer Jamito 10 points and 6 rebounds, and Antonio Bonsubre 4 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocks as the Batang Kankaloo moved ahead of the Gensan Warriors (7-0) and gained distance from the Quezon Huskets (5-0). Valenzuela fell to 4-4 as only Jay Collado struck back with 13 points and 6 rebounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cebu sustained its climb with a 96-77 beating of Zamboanga SiKat in the opener, while Quezon City regained traction with a 96-87 victory over Ilagan Isabela in the second game. The Cebu Greats bundled 14 points, courtesy of Cebuano legend Dondon Hontiveros’ two triples and Jonathan Gesalem’s back-to-back 3s, to break free, 38-27, en route to their fourth straight win and a 6-2 record. Cebu’s Mark Meneses posted 19 points, highlighted by a one-handed slam, 11 rebounds and 2 steals, followed by Wowie Escosio with 15 points and 5 rebounds, Paul Desiderio with 13 points and 2 rebounds, and Simon Camacho with 10 points, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks and 2 assists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was Brian Heruela, however, who emerged the SportsPlus best player after piling 4 points, 15 assists, 7 rebounds and 2 steals for Cebu. The 48-year-old Hontiveros finished with 7 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists, while his 23-year-old son, Ice, chipped in 7 points and 2 rebounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Zamboanga absorbed its fourth straight loss and dropped to 1-6 despite Paeng Are’s 21-point, 9-rebound, 4-assist effort. Spearheaded by Ryan Costelo, the Quezon City Black Bulls stormed ahead, 61-34, before coasting to their fifth win in 8 starts, the same as the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys, following back-to-back losses. Costelo wound up with 17 points, 8 assists and 4 rebounds, followed by Clark Derige, with 15 points and 9 rebounds, Brian Rosalin, with 14 points and 8 rebounds, and ML Joson, with 13 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. The Cowboys drew 17 points and 4 rebounds from JP Cauilan, 13 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists from Arth Dela Cruz, 13 points and 5 rebounds from Joseph Gabayni, and 10 points each from Jayboy Solis and Kyle Paranada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: manilatimes.net<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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FEATURED ARTICLE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Smart Strategies for Conserving Water and Reducing Utility Costs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

About 71% of Earth is covered by water, with vast connections of oceans, seas, lakes, and rivers supporting diverse ecosystems and impacting many people\u2019s lives. Despite this, only 2.5% of this is freshwater that humans can use for various purposes, such as food production, manufacturing, and sanitation. With human-induced global warming, there\u2019s a chance that this will decrease, which might lead to water scarcity in various parts of the globe, including the Philippines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is why Filipinos must understand the growing need for water conservation in the modern world. This refers to practices needed to mitigate unnecessary water use in residential and commercial properties. Water conservation can not only help ensure water availability for future generations, but it can also assist authorities in lessening water pollution and reducing the energy used to deliver water from one point to another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are several ways people can conserve water in their homes to help battle water scarcity and decrease the amount they need to pay for utility bills. This includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mindful Water Usage<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As water scarcity has become a global issue because of human-caused drought, being mindful of water usage inside and outside the property is essential. This may involve turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth or shaving, planting drought-resistant plants in the garden, or even taking shorter showers than usual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These practices might seem minimal, but doing so has several positive impacts on one\u2019s water conservation and reduced utility costs efforts. For starters, being mindful of your water usage can lessen the strain on the local water supply, ensuring ample water sources for present and future generations. This can lower your utility bills, positively impacting household expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fixing Leaks Quickly<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Damaged pipes, plumbing fixtures, or broken or loose hose connections may cause leaks. It can decrease the water pressure and increase your water bills if left unattended. This can also significantly increase unnecessary water consumption, leading to water constantly running even if no one is using it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is why it is essential to regularly check for leaks in water connections inside and outside the property. Identifying potential leaks and fixing them immediately can significantly reduce water loss, which can help save people from unnecessary expenses because of leaked water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rainwater Harvesting<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The practice of rainwater harvesting has been used by many families for many years, allowing them to have a sustainable water supply for various activities. In a country where typhoons and monsoons bring rain most of the year, Filipinos can use this to reduce their reliance on traditional water sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By collecting rainwater, people can build a sustainable water supply system that will allow them to decrease the strain on the local water supply. This is important as rainwater can be used for various activities, such as watering plants and washing vehicles. Using rainwater for these activities can significantly help conservation efforts and greatly reduce water bills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investing in Efficient Tankless Water Heaters<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is no wonder that taking long, warm showers can be one of the most soothing experiences anyone can have in their lifetime. However, investing in a cost-effective tankless water heater is the best solution if you want to conserve water while showering. Tankless instant heaters are energy efficient as they only work when the faucet it is connected to is running.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, tankless heating units are also designed to significantly reduce water wastage as it only warms water on demand. This eliminates the need to run water to achieve the desired temperature, as is often required with tank-based systems. The unit\u2019s capability to heat only water when needed also eliminated water wastage due to heat loss, significantly reducing water and energy consumption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the world continues its battle against water scarcity, implementing various water conservation techniques can be invaluable for many Filipino families. By properly conserving water in multiple ways, people can help preserve the local water supply while also supporting household expenses by lowering utility costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a top-notch water heater to ensure protection against various elements, you should check out Rheem, one of the best water heater brands in the Philippines. With almost 100 years in the water heating industry, we have constantly focused on innovating and creating more advanced, high-quality water heating solutions to suit our customers\u2019 unique needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Source: www.rheemphilippines.com<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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