Seven dead as Typhoon Vamco triggers Philippine capital's worst floods in years

MANILA (Reuters) - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday ordered government agencies to hasten relief efforts after a powerful typhoon killed at least seven people and unleashed some of the worst flooding in years in the capital Manila.

Duterte cut short his attendance of a virtual meeting of Southeast Asian leaders to inspect the damage from Typhoon Vamco, moments after a speech during which he urged his counterparts to urgently combat the effects of climate change.

The typhoon, the eighth to hit the Philippines in the past two months and 21st of the year, forced residents to scramble onto rooftops to await rescue after tens of thousands of homes were submerged.

Those killed across the main island of Luzon, home to half of the country’s 108 million population, included people who drowned, an elderly man hit by a tree and three workers crushed when a warehouse collapsed.

It struck areas still reeling from Goni, the most powerful typhoon in the world this year, which killed 25 people and destroyed thousands of homes earlier this month.

“Rest assured, the government will not leave anybody behind,” Duterte said in a national address, pledging shelter, relief goods, financial aid and counselling.

Nearly 200,000 people were evacuated before Vamco arrived late on Wednesday packing winds of 155 kilometres (96 miles) per hour and gusts of up to 255 kph (158 mph). It has since weakened and exited the mainland.

Duterte told Southeast Asian leaders the devastation of recent weeks was “a stark reminder of the urgency of collective action to combat the effects of climate change”.

‘OVERWHELMING’

Nearly three million households in and around Manila were without power as people waded through waist-high floods, carrying valuables and pets.

Coastguard swam through brown floodwater as high as electricity poles in some areas, while rescue workers used rubber boats and makeshift floats to move children and the elderly to safety.

In some suburbs east of Manila, residents took refuge atop flooded homes.

“The flood reached the entire second floor of our house. For more than eight hours, we stayed at our neighbour’s house,” call center worker Albert Rano, 35, told Reuters.

“Aside from some clothes and laptops, nothing is left.”

The typhoons have battered the Philippines as it faces an uphill struggle to breathe life into its withering economy while keeping coronavirus infections under control.

Roughly 40,000 homes had either been fully or partially submerged in the Marikina area, a situation its mayor, Marcelino Teodoro, said was “overwhelming” and the worst since a typhoon flooded large swathes of the capital in 2009.

“The local government cannot handle this,” Teodoro told DZMM radio, requesting motorised boats and airlifts.

Residents posted images on social media of flooded homes and the disaster agency said parts of 36 cities and towns were inundated.

Flights and mass transit in Manila were suspended and port operations stopped. Government work was halted and financial markets shut.

Vamco was headed towards Vietnam, where devastating floods and mudslides over the past month have killed at least 160 people in central areas.

Reporting by Neil Jerome Morales; Additional Reporting by Eloisa Lopez and Enrico Dela Cruz; Editing by Lincoln Feast, Ed Davies and Martin Petty

-reuters-

Chickoy Pura and the story of The Jerks’ anthem 'Rage'

MANILA -- Where does folk music intertwine with punk rock? The twain meet at the intersection of social commentary and mainstream excess making for an explosive concoction. 

And Alfredo “Chickoy” Pura Jr. finds himself smack dab in the middle. 

As a folk musician, Pura channeled his inner Bob Dylan and Neil Young.

As front man for The Jerks including the constant ebbs and flows with different line-ups, they morphed from their New Wave and punk roots to a raunchier sound more akin to The Rolling Stones.

The Jerks were never conventional. They submitted their first songs “Romantic Kill” and “Big Deal” on cassette and were played on DZRJ’s “Pinoy Rock and Rhythm” show that was hosted by DJ Howlin’ Dave in 1981. Those songs, now considered classics, have never been given the vinyl or cassette treatment. 

Instead, their debut album was actually a live recording that was released in 1994. Three years later, they followed that up with a proper self-titled studio debut that featured classics such as “Haligi sa Maynila,” “Sayaw sa Bubog,” “Reklamo ng Reklamo,” and “Rage.”

Last August 9, “Rage” was elevated from classic into anthemic. 

A music video -- spearheaded by Mrk Estandarte of Pasada, Pol Torrente of Plagpul, and Monet Pura, Chickoy’s wife -- featured 35 musicians from the alternative scene performing “Rage” as a form of protest to recent controversial events that have rocked this country. 


Could The Jerks’ anti-fascist song now replace “Bayan Ko” as the new protest anthem? More so now that the singer of that latter song has crossed over to the establishment’s side?

Chickoy Pura laughs. He isn’t concerned about plaudits or iconic status. He is more concerned about what has happened to the world we inhabit. 

“As an individual, you have to draw the line when you face this specter of fear,” emphasized Pura. “A lot of what has been going on is insensitive and cruel. We are in the middle of a pandemic and kung ano-ano pa ang ginagawang panggigipit sa tao.”

Then as in now, the song’s lyrics remain poignant if not prophetic. 

“And the names and faces of the tyrants change.
But poverty, pain, and murder remains. 
And the voices of truth are locked up in chains.
Darkness remains, freedom in flames.”

When Pura wrote “Rage,” he wanted to paint a picture of poverty in Manila. In doing so, he quoted the late Welsh poet Dylan Thomas’s famous verse, “But I’ll go not gently into the night. Rage against the dying of the light.”

But the germ of the idea for the song came from a painting his sister-in-law gave him. 

“I was given this painting made by a political detainee,” recounted Pura. “It depicted a dove flying away into the darkness and it quoted Dylan Thomas. I had to look up the poet and the poem and found both powerful. It gave meaning to the song. And yet, in hindsight, I wish I asked for the name of the detainee.”

“Folk and punk rock music are about social issues and I decided to write about the social injustice and human rights violations in the country,” he added. “As for Dylan Thomas’ poem… it was waiting for someone to write it.”

And the song and its music video is every bit as ferocious as the title implies with Pura’s pained voice spitting out every word with exasperation and anger. In between the words and verse, then-bandmate Nitoy Adriano’s discordant guitar licks added an element of danger.

As for the jam remake? It’s equal parts passionate, powerful, a powder keg of emotions let loose.

And the video was a bold statement. It outed every musician who feels the same way about what is going on.

“Well, there are expected trolls,” laughed Pura with a hint of sarcasm. 

This isn’t Pura’s first bit of commentary about these times. In October 2017, he recorded a new song “Sa Madilim na Sulok ng Kasaysayan” along with drummer Ray Marasigan and bassist Buddy Zabala who both appeared on the Rage PH video. The song had this Bo Diddley vibe yet with the trademark Pura grit.

“As a songwriter, I have always addressed the world in which we live in. 'Yung sinusulat ko, kung magmulat ang mata ng tao at makakabuti para sa lahat, then I have done my job.”

For Pura, he can’t wait for this crazy world to go back to its usual axis. He misses the exhilaration of live shows, performing for audiences, and interacting with fellow musicians and fans. “Music for me is, was, and will always be a form of expression. But I also want it to be a vehicle to provide for my family.”

For someone who carried the flag for Original Pilipino Music, and bravely planted into onto Manila’s mean streets, Pura isn’t done. “I have more songs in me,” he proclaimed.

At the intersection where folk and punk rock meet, you’ll still find Chickoy Pura, guitar in one hand, and still raging against the dying of the light.

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Ivana Alawi poses topless to celebrate 8 million subscribers on YouTube

MANILA -- She's not one to shy away from baring on social media. 

And true to this bold, confident personality of hers, Ivana Alawi posed topless for fans to celebrate reaching a YouTube milestone. 

The actress and vlogger set pulses racing this Friday by sharing a picture, from celebrity photographer BJ Pascual, after her YouTube channel broke the 8-million subscribers mark. 

Alawi rose to fame mainly thanks to her YouTube channel. 

She delved into acting with the drama series "Sino Ang May Sala?" and was slated to star in her first teleserye as a lead in "Ligaya," prior to the lockdown caused by the spread of COVID-19. 

Alawi also tried her hand in music, releasing her first music video last month for her single, "Sana All." 



In February, Alawi signed an exclusive contract with ABS-CBN

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Marlo Mortel collaborates with former 'American Idol' contestant

MANILA – Marlo Mortel is looking forward to share to his followers his new collaboration with Evelyn Cormier, who was part of the Top 14 of “American Idol” last year.

In an interview with entertainment site PUSH, Mortel said he and Cormier became friends through social media because he always posts her performances on his Instagram Stories.

“Fan ako ng voice niya. Lagi siyang nagpapasalamat at nire-repost niya hanggang naging friends na kami,” he said.

“Then this year, she also reposted my original songs, kaya I asked her if she wants to be my duet partner and she said yes and she’d love to,” he added.

View this post on Instagram

YES!!! Katy Perry’s “Favorite Voice Ever” & American Idol Finalist @evelyncormier will join me on my next original song! Same as the judges, I fell in LOVE with Evelyn’s unique voice the moment I heard her. SWIPE LEFT.

A post shared by Marlo Mortel (@marlomortelmusic) on May 1, 2020 at 5:02am PDT

Titled “Bones,” the song will be part of Mortel’s Love On Lockdown Originals, all of which he’s written while Luzon is under quarantine due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Saying he will announce more about the project next week, Mortel explained: “In the process kami sa pagre-record separately, ako dito sa room ko, then siya sa studio at her hometown, New Hampshire. Naka-quarantine din kasi sila sa America tulad natin dito.”

The singer-actor said this is a dream come true for him because he’s really a huge fan of “American Idol.”

“I’m a huge fan! Last year, I visited an ‘American Idol’ venue during my vacation just to have a glimpse. Not knowing that this year, I’ll be collaborating with my personal bet from the same season,” he said.

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FB group 'SuperTsuper' comes to the rescue of out-of-work drivers

MANILA - The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has upended livelihoods, and the transport sector is among those bearing the brunt of the crisis.

Since mass transit in Luzon has been suspended, public utility drivers are not able to make a living, putting their lives hanging precariously in the balance.

But a group of University of the Philippines (UP) alumnae and students has come to the rescue of out-of-work drivers, through the Facebook group "SuperTsuper."

"It's just so heartbreaking to see the hardworking people who bring us to where we need to be everyday immobilized by the lockdown, so we wanted to help even in just a small way," Mariel Cunanan, one of the group's administrators, told ABS-CBN News on Thursday.

Cunanan and her friends created the Facebook group on March 31, and since then nearly 35,000 joined to help.

"What prompted this whole thing is seeing a lot of drivers on social media asking for even just 1 or 2 pesos from people on GCash to help them survive this lockdown," she said.

Through "SuperTsuper," drivers of jeepneys, tricycles and transportation network vehicle service (TNVS) could ask for donation from group members coursed through Globe's e-wallet service GCash.

Cunanan and other administrators strictly screen the PUV drivers to ensure their call for help are legitimate. They will be asked to provide their names, photos, addresses and name of their respective associations.

"Once posted, donors are free to donate to whoever they like, regardless of amount and how many people they want to give to," she said.

She added, "So the money doesn't really go through us -- the whole selling point of SuperTsuper is direct donations. No more middlemen so you know 100% of your money is going to someone in need. And it's also an avenue for donors and the tsupers to interact, humanizing the donation process because the donors will see the people whose lives they're touching talaga."

The donation varies from P20 to P2,000, Cunanan said.

One story that stuck with her was that of 63-year-old jeepney driver Eduardo Solis.

"He has 3 children and 6 dogs to feed, and it was a true testament to how sometimes those who have less have the most love to give," she said.

Since most seniors are not tech-savvy, Cunanan said she had to guide Solis on using social media.

"A lot of drivers are like this, very grateful to the donors and extremely kind. All of their stories are worth hearing talaga," she added.

In nearly 2 weeks, "SuperTsuper" has helped some 700 to 900 drivers all over the Philippines and will continue to do so as long as people are willing to donate.

"Give what you can because "not much" to us can mean everything to them," Cunanan said.

The Philippine government imposed an enhanced community quarantine in the entire Luzon, home to more than 50 million people, to arrest the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The same measure was imposed in many other areas in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Transport group Piston earlier said there were 500,000 jeepney drivers and 200,000 small jeepney operators affected by the lockdown.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Regine Tolentino gives birth to a baby girl, her third daughter

MANILA — Actress-dancer Regine Tolentino took to social media to reveal that she gave birth last month to her third daughter.

Tolentino shared a photo of her and her newborn in an Instagram post on Sunday.


“At a time of uncertainty and anxiety, everyone is looking for a spark of hope, a miracle that will raise our spirits and make everything better. This blessing can come in any shape or form. Ours came on March 17, 2020 at 9:25pm,” Tolentino wrote in the caption.

Tolentino who is currently in a relationship with Dondi Narciso, a director-photographer, didn’t mention the name of her baby’s father but on Instagram, Narciso shared Tolentino’s post on social media announcing the birth of her baby girl.

Tolentino has two daughters from former husband Lander Vera-Perez.

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Supermarkets open but no public transport: What 'enhanced community quarantine' means

MANILA  — Effective midnight March 17, Tuesday, the entire Luzon will be placed under an enhanced community quarantine that will see the suspension of mass public transport and imposition of home quarantine, among many other restrictions, on all residents in the main island until April 12.

"A strict home quarantine shall be observed in all households; movement shall be limited to accessing basic necessities... Mass public transport facilities shall be suspended; and land, air and sea travel shall be restricted," according to the memorandum issued by Malacañang.

In an earlier public address, President Rodrigo Duterte said tougher quarantine measures are meant to prevent the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from spreading to other parts of the country.

"I am placing the entire mainland of Luzon under quarantine until April 12, 2020 coinciding with the entire end of the Holy Week... We do not have the luxury of time to wait if there is really such a connection of a contagion somewhere. I cannot go into a guessing game. I have to act," Duterte said in a pre-taped public address.

In a later press conference, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said the "general rule" of the Luzon-wide quarantine is to "stay at home."

"Ang general rule ay stay at home. If you leave your home to buy necessities, only one person ang puwede bumili, hindi puwede isama ang buong pamilya... Gusto natin 'yung walang galawan because we want the virus to stop from spreading," said Nograles, who is also the spokesperson of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) leading the country’s response to the virus outbreak.

Private establishments providing basic necessities are allowed to operate during the enhanced quarantine period, according to the Palace. These include:

* public markets
* supermarkets
* groceries
* convenience stores
* hospitals
* medical clinics
* pharmacies and drug stores
* food preparation and delivery services
* water-refilling stations, manufacturing and processing plants of basic food products and medicines
* banks
* money transfer services
* power, energy, water, and telecommunications supplies and facilities

Meanwhile, classes and all school activities in all levels in Luzon are suspended until April 14.

A work-from-home arrangement will likewise be implemented in the executive branch, except the PNP, AFP, PCG, and health and emergency frontline services, border control and other critical services, which will operate on a "skeletal work force."

Media personnel intending to travel within the quarantine area are required to obtain identification cards from the Presidential Communications Operations Office within 72 hours from the issuance of the memorandum.

The new declaration is a stricter and wider version of a general community quarantine which was earlier imposed in Metro Manila.

Nograles said the enhanced community quarantine may be abbreviated or expanded, depending on the assessment of IATF.

"Puwede siyang mapaikli if the situation warrants pero puwede din humaba depende sa situation."

As of Monday night, there are 142 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country, including 12 fatalities.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Alanis Morissette postpones Manila shows

MANILA -- Alanis Morissette has temporarily cancelled her upcoming shows in the Philippines due to the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) everywhere around the world.

Through a Facebook post on Monday, Morissette said she has to postpone her shows in Japan, Manila, Australia and New Zealand because “the safety and health of everyone comes first.”

“Please hang on to your tickets (except Bluesfest in Byron Bay), details to come soon for the rescheduled shows. Take care of yourself, of each other. I love you,” she wrote.

Morissette was originally scheduled to hold a two-night concert at the Mall of Asia Arena on April 6 and 7.

The concert is supposed to be part of the 25th anniversary celebration of Morissette’s “Jagged Little Pill” album.

Among the songs included in Morissette’s "Jagged Little Pill" album are "Ironic," "Hand in My Pocket" and "You Oughta Know."

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Metro Manila malls to shut down early ahead of quarantine

MANILA — Mall operators on Saturday announced that their branches within Metro Manila will be closed earlier than usual as the region braces for a government-imposed quarantine.

Metro Manila will be under community quarantine beginning Sunday, March 15, to Tuesday, April 14 in a bid to arrest the spread of COVID-19, now considered pandemic by the World Health Organization.

Local chief executives in Metro Manila have also agreed to impose curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. as the quarantine takes effect.

The country's mall chains SM Supermalls, Robinsons Malls, Ayala Malls and Vista Malls said they would have shorter operating hours from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

SM Supermalls, Robinsons Malls and Vista Malls said they will impose their new schedule on Sunday, while Ayala Malls' will be effective today.

The Philippines has recorded 64 cases of the new coronavirus strain, mostly in Metro Manila. Among them, 8 have died.

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'Rawr rawr!' Waze adds more fun phrases for Mimiyuuuh's voice option

MANILA -- Fans of Mimiyuuuh, take note: traffic app Waze has rolled out this Friday additional fun, new phrases for the popular vlogger's voice option. 

Starting this week, you can now have Mimiyuuuh tell you to "turn left! Rawr rawr," or join you in practicing your "vocalizationism" whenever you find yourself stuck in the middle of traffic. 

"Thank you po talaga sa mga natuwa sa Waze voice ko po," Mimiyuuuh, who has more than 2.3 million followers on YouTube alone, said over the positive reception. 

Mimiyuuuh's voice was first added to the GPS navigational app back in December, the second Filipino celebrity to feature in Waze after Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray. 

According to Waze, Mimiyuuuh's voice will only be available to users in the Philippines until the end of March 2020. To change your Waze voice option, simply go to Settings, then Voice Directions, then Mimiyuuuh. 

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Gunman takes hostages in Greenhills mall, 1 hurt: mayor

MANILA --  A gunman took hostages at a popular shopping mall in Greenhills, San Juan on Monday, its mayor said.

One person was shot and was being treated at the hospital, said San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora.

The suspect, a "disgruntled" security guard, was believed to be carrying firearms and a grenade, he said.

Police evacuated the V-Mall, popular among bargain-hunters looking for cell phones and toys, after receiving reports of gunshots in the area.

"We are currently negotiating with this person," Zamora told ANC.

A police vehicle and several spectators were seen huddled at the V-Mall entrance, according to an ABS-CBN photographer on the scene.

Some doors to the mall were sealed off as authorities started evacuating the building, according to the photographer.

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Avril Lavigne cancels Asian tour due to coronavirus outbreak

MANILA – Avril Lavigne’s Manila concert scheduled on May 20, 2020 is canceled.

Through Facebook and Twitter on Sunday, the 35-year-old Canadian-French singer announced that her team is “unable to tour the Asian markets due to the continuous outbreak of the coronavirus.”

“My band, crew and I have been working so hard to bring this tour worldwide and are completely bummed out,” she said.

“Please everybody take care of yourselves and stay healthy. You’re in my thoughts and prayers and we are hoping to announce rescheduled shows soon," she added.


Lavigne’s concert at the Araneta Coliseum was supposed to be part of her "Head Above Water World Tour," according to Wilbros Live.

She is noted for being an iconic female performer of the pop-punk genre, with critics and music publications dubbing her as the "Pop Punk Queen."

Her notable songs include "Complicated" and "Girlfriend.

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Ebe Dancel looks back with new album, solo concert

MANILA -- For Ebe Dancel, the stage musical "Sa Wakas," which featured songs of his former group, the disbanded Sugarfree, was unexpected.

He was surprised being personally approached by "these eager kids from Ateneo" who have high regards for his work.


"They approached me one day and told me they wanted to do a musical using my songs. And it was a time when I was feeling low in my career. I said, yes, of course, by all means. I thought that was it. Then they asked me to compose a new song, something exclusive for the musical they are doing, which I learned was titled 'Sa Wakas.' I was more surprised by their frankness, nag-yes na nga ako to use my songs tapos they asked me pa to compose a new one," he said, laughing.

The new piece was "Bawat Daan," written in 2013 for the musical's initial staging.

As it turned out, the musical was a big help for him. Sugarfree disbanded in 2011 and he had just launched his first solo album "Dalawang Mukha ng Pag-Ibig" in 2012 under Warner Philippines. Then came "these kids from Ateneo."

It can be said the musical helped Dancel get back on track again. "Sa Bawat Daan" eventually became the title of his second solo album, released in 2015 under Star Records.

Now after nine years, he is back with PolyEast Records.

"It's like coming home. 'Baliktanaw' is a long-awaited album. It has nine songs from my Sugarfree years," Dancel told ABS-CBN News. "And it is just tip of the iceberg. We might launched it in vinyl later this year."

He enumerated these titles: "Burnout," "Mariposa," "Unang Araw," "Kwarto," "Cuida," "Tulog Na," "Dear Kuya," "Wag Ka Nang Umiyak," "Hangover," and a new single titled "Hanggang Kailan Kita Mahihintay."

"If you noticed, maraming 'di nakasama like 'Hari Ng Sablay,'" Dancel said, pointing out they can only have 10 songs.

"PolyEast and I collaborated in trimming the list. We meet halfway. Ang gaganda talaga ng versions na ito. Maganda rin naman 'yung nauna pero ito, pati vocals kundisyon na kundisyon. These are versions of my songs the way I want them to sound right now."

One may wonder, why he chose PolyEast, then and now?

"Looking back in the 1990s, PolyEast (formerly EMI Philippines) was the only label that wanted to take me in. Nanggaling kasi ako sa wala eh. Tumutugtog ako sa Mayrics, lima lang ang tao, aalis pa yung dalawa," he said, laughing.

The carrier single, "Hanggang Kailan Kita Mahihintay" has been made available on Spotify and other streaming devices. On February 29, "Baliktanaw" will be released in physical CD format during his solo concert at Metrotent Convention Center in Pasig City.


Dubbed "Ebe Dancel with The Manila String Machine," the show is accompanied by a 20-piece orchestra with Paolo Valenciano as creative director and Chino David (formerly of Silent Sanctuary, now with Hale) as musical director.

"The carrier single was originally written for Paolo Valenciano's debut album in 2014," Dancel pointed out.

Speaking of composing songs for other artists, Dancel said it's been a decade when he made a promise to Regine Velasquez and he has yet to submit one.

Dancel also said he wants to write songs for or have a duet with Sarah Geronimo. "She's the most talented artist I've known and I wanna give her the best because she's the best," he said and paused for a few seconds.

"But I wanna write for myself. Kakabigay ko ng kanta sa iba ako nauubusan," he added, laughing.

When it comes to collaborating with other artists as co-performer, he readily mentioned of Unique Salonga, the 20-year-old composer-rock singer and former frontman of IV Of Spades. Many consider Salonga as one of the main torchbearers of his generation. Like Dancel in his early years, Salonga composes hits and potential hits, he can sing and he has lots of years ahead of him.

"He's the best songwriter I've come across with in a long long time. He writes the perfect songs that I can identify with. He's a wonderful person. He's terrific on stage. That young man is going places. Well, he's already going places."

Asked for advice to budding musicians who want to write their own materials.

"Stop looking into writing your first or next hit because these days, you don't know what's going to hit or miss. The tastes of people? They change. You write and write from the heart and everything will fall into place."

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Mario Maurer returning to Manila for fan meet

MANILA — Thai supertar Mario Maurer, best known to Filipinos for his 2012 film under ABS-CBN's Star Cinema, is returning to the country in June for a fan meet.

Maurer, 31, will get together with his fans on June 28 at SM City North EDSA's Skydome in Quezon City, producer Wish Us Luck announced on Tuesday.

Maurer made his film breakthrough in 2007 via "The Love of Siam," before achieving international popularity with "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" in 2010.


The success of that movie paved the way for international projects for Maurer, including Star Cinema's "Suddenly It's Magic" with Filipino actress Erich Gonzales.

He also became a brand ambassador of a Philippine clothing line, leading to his numerous visits to the country.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Indonesia gets third straight Asian badminton crown

MANILA, Philippines – Mohammad Ahsan and Fajar Alfian powered Indonesia to a third consecutive continental crown after ruling the 2020 SMART Badminton Asia Manila Team Championships, Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Indonesia defeated its regional rival, Malaysia, 3-1, in the finals of the tournament.

Ahsan and Alfian shook off Ong Yew Sin and Teo Ee Yi in the first game of the second doubles match, 21-18. The duo took control of the second, 21-17, to take the tie and keep Indonesia's place at the top of the biennial meet.

Despite playing with a partner other than Hendra Setiawan, Ahsan was confident he would work well with anyone – including Alfian.

"During training, we are used to changing partners, so we'll get used to playing together," he explained. "We are very happy, and now we're focused on the next Thomas Cup."

World No. 5 Anthony Ginting fought hard to snag the opening frame against Lee Zii Jia, 22-20, before taking control of the second game at 21-16 to put the defending champions on top after the first singles match.

Ginting trailed, 8-11, after the first interval but got his bearings and forced the reigning Southeast Asian Games champion to errors late in the game, eventually gaining the adventage.

The tandem of Marcus Gideon and Kevin Sakamuljo then gave Indonesia a 2-0 lead after taking down Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik.

Gideon and Sakamuljo had to accomplish a similar turnaround to get the first, 22-20, before wrapping up the win in the second at a more comfortable 21-16 victory.

Cheam June Wei shook off several title-clinching points from reigning Asian Games gold medalist Jonatan Christie, taking the deciding frame to keep Malaysia in the battle after 68 minutes of play, 21-16, 17-21, 24-22.

Muhammad Ardianto, Firman Kholik, Shesar Rhustavito, and Hendra Setiawan complete the Indonesian squad.

Japan and Korea took the bronzes and will join both Indonesia and Malaysia in the 2020 Thomas Cup in Aarhus, Denmark.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

American band Power Trip hits Manila with a mega-watt performance

MANILA -- One of the most acclaimed American bands of the last decade hit Manila last Sunday.

Texas crossover thrash metal band Power Trip put on a mega-watt performance in a production by promoter Sleeping Boy Collective last February 9 at the 123 Block.

The crowd of 300 people – including several Danish tourists -- who packed the venue came away tired, sweaty, and bewildered. In fact, some had to sit down in the middle of their raucous set to rest or go for a water break. It was that intense.

And the Dallas, Texas-based band is known just for that – their crossover hardcore punk and thrash metal to go with their livewire shows. They released two critically-acclaimed albums in the past decade – 2013’s "Manifest Decimation" and 2017’s "Nightmare Logic." In between those two albums, the band also put out a couple of extended play albums. 

Along with American acts such as Deafheaven and Vampire Weekend, Power Trip is one of the more lauded and popular bands of the last decade. Such is their draw that top rock acts have oft invited the Texas thrashers on their tours opening them up to new audiences. 

Power Trip – vocalist Riley Gale, guitarists Blake Ibanez and Nick Stewart, drummer Chris Ulsh, and bassist Chris Wetzel – are in the midst of a six-nation Asian tour and Manila was their second stop. 

“It’s cool to know that we have fans in this part of the world,” said Wetzel before their show where local hardcore acts Veils, Armas Ready, and Choke Cocoi opened for them. “We see a lot of people here and we’re just excited to play our music to an audience that is buzzing.”

When the American quintet hit the stage, Gale wore an Agnostic Front shirt. Ibanez sported a white Corrosion of Conformity top, while Whetzel proudly wore a Van Halen tour shirt. Behind them was their logo that is rooted in extreme metal but is at once readable; a subtle reference to its crossover influences. Corrosion of Conformity is a heavy metal band, while Agnostic front is a hardcore act from New York. Van Halen is a hard rock act from California.

Riley makes no bones about how the American East Coast hardcore scene of the 1980s where bands such as Bad Brains, Agnostic Front, and Cro-Mags to name but a few influenced him. “I was weaned on that stuff,” he cheerfully admitted. 

The powerful performance saw the band roll out their songs – from the crowd favorite “Executioner’s Tax (Swing of the Axe)” to “Soul Sacrifice” to their new song, “Hornet’s Nest” -- with the jacked up crowd chiming in between relentless moshing. 

“It’s always good when you have people tripping out on your songs and moshing to it,” summed up Whetzel. “And Manila was just awesome. We’re happy we played here and we certainly hope we can come back again.”

After their Asian tour – that followed a grueling American tour that kicked off last November of 2019 -- Power Trip will begin work on their third full-length album.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Traditional markets blamed for virus outbreak are lifeline for Asia's poor

BANGKOK- Millions of poor farmers and workers will lose access to a cheap and easy way to buy and sell fresh food if Asian cities clamp down on traditional wet markets in the wake of the deadly coronavirus outbreak, analysts warned on Friday.

Wet markets, which are a series of stalls that sell fresh vegetables and fruits, live fish, chickens and other meats, are named after the melting of ice used to preserve goods and the washing of floors to clean blood and entrails.

They have come under closer scrutiny in recent weeks after the coronavirus outbreak was linked to a seafood market in Wuhan, China.

That market was shut down, and authorities said they would ban illegal wildlife trade and tighten supervision of wet markets, as a debate raged on social media on whether all wet markets should be closed.

"Wet markets are part of the local culture in Asia, as people believe that meat and produce sold there is fresher and cheaper than in modern retail outlets," said Pavida Pananond, an associate professor of international business at Thammasat University in Bangkok.

Across Asia, governments are keen to modernize their cities increasingly view street vendors and informal markets as a hindrance, and as usurpers of public spaces meant for formal businesses and wealthy residents.

From Bangkok to Manila, authorities are pushing vendors into designated zones and imposing restrictions on informal markets.

The 2002-03 outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), which started in China and killed about 800 people, was believed to have emerged from wet markets.

Now the coronavirus, which has led to more than 600 deaths and 30,000 cases, may be used as another reason to tighten controls, although no Southeast Asian nation has declared a shutdown of wet markets.

These traditional markets are a lifeline for millions of small farmers, vendors and small businesses said Pavida, adding that shuttering them would have a significant economic and cultural impact on poorer consumers.

"It will be difficult to completely replace them as they serve consumers at the lower end of purchasing power, not to mention their cultural preference," she said.

SOCIAL SPACES

Singapore has long banned the trade of wild animals and slaughter of poultry in markets, and has now issued advisories for "high standards of hygiene and cleanliness", said a spokesman for the National Environment Agency (NEA), which manages 83 markets across the city-state.

The NEA aims to improve markets "so that they remain social spaces where residents of diverse backgrounds can meet and interact while purchasing affordable household groceries and fresh produce in a clean and hygienic environment," he said.

Wet markets have survived because of culinary traditions that call for freshly slaughtered meat and fish as opposed to frozen meats, said Seshan Ramaswami, an associate professor of marketing education at Singapore Management University.

"I don't think the tradition will collapse because of this outbreak. At best, it might lead to more stringent inspection at the source, or much tighter controls when live animals are being traded," he told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Any shutdown of wet markets would have a big socio-economic impact and must be done gradually as it may lead to increased food insecurity, said Masami Takeuchi, a food safety officer at the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization.

"Wet markets have been a part of life for many, many centuries. In 2020, they are still an essential part of the culture," she said.

"Obviously there are many challenges in the area of food safety, but with good practices, effective regulation and good inspection schemes, modernization is possible," she said.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Korea's Seventeen arrives in Manila for concert

MANILA -- Members of the K-pop group Seventeen arrived in Manila on Friday for their one-night concert.

Seventeen is set to perform at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday, February 8, as part of the band's “Ode to You” world tour.


The hashtag #MaligayangPagdatingSVT became a top trending topic on Twitter in the Philippines as fans uploaded photos and videos of their arrival.


Seventeen last performed in Manila in September 2018 as part of its “Ideal Cut” tour.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

These live music venues will make your gig-watching life a little more extra

No, we’re not talking about restaurants or bars that happen to have live bands. We’re not talking about cafes that will just let in any Sitti-sounding busker to strum a tune within its walls. We’re talking honest-to-God gig venues, dude. Front row seats to culture. Places whose small shows can go toe to toe with any big concert.

This is, in no way, an exhaustive list. But if you’re stuck on the usual circuit—including but not limited to Route 196, Saguijo, Mows, 70s Bistro, or the parts of Poblacion where everybody spins but are just way too crowded some nights—these spaces can get you out of your rut, and make your gig-going lifestyle a little more interesting.



Jess & Pat’s

What makes Jess & Pat’s really cool as a venue is what some people might find lame about it. It doesn’t serve alcohol, its gig lineups mostly consist of either acoustic acts or acts that never go too heavy, and the gigs never end very late. Before 1am, the show’s done. This is obviously not a party animal’s watering hole. But for an audience who just wants their live music fix without the head-pounding buzz of alcohol, the stench of yosi, or the aura emanated by hipsters who go out just to be seen, Jess & Pat’s is perfect. Mellow enough for the whole family, lively enough to get you clapping and singing along.

Acts that have played here: Munimuni, Kaleidoscope Eyes, Over October

Address: 2/F 63 Maginhawa Street, UP Village, Quezon City



123 Block

When you think of Mandaluyong you don’t normally think, “Oh, yeah, that part of Metro Manila is poppin’.” Odds are you think of Megamall and Podium, which are in Ortigas, god, get it together dude. And look, I was that person too, until I found out that Mandaluyong has one truly amazing thing going for it. It has 123 Block. It’s a two-floor venue that acts as a co-working space but also acts as an event space, whether the events are book fairs, candle-making workshops, or gigs. And when it’s a gig, it’s a real sight to behold. A crowd pools around the first floor’s elevated stage, and when the audience is big enough, the crowd clings to the staircase like vines, and extends to the second floor, where gig-goers can watch from above. They also serve kombucha.

Acts that have played here: half-lit, BLKD x Calix, Ciudad

Address: 123 Pioneer Street, Mandaluyong



Handlebar Bar & Grill

The part of Poblacion where the old Hell’s Angels coots hang. It’s a bar with the swagger of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and the scent of a leather jacket older than your nephew. Come for the classic blues and rock shows — and rugby match nights — stay for the lamb roast.

Acts that have played here: Kjwan, Blue Rats, Basti Artadi

Address: 31 Polaris Street, Poblacion, Makati



12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub

I don’t know when or how it happened but the 12 Monkeys that used to stand in Century Mall is now a mall chapel. That’s fine though. It was out of the way anyway — at least for a QC boy like me — and I’m too used to seeing Century Mall as the unofficial turf of The Rest Is Noise. The good news is: We still have El Pueblo, where the OG 12 Monkeys venue stands. What’s interesting about 12 Monkeys is that out of almost every other venue, it’s here where you can normally find your OPM favorites of the early 2000s. True Faith! Side A! Brownman Revival! MYMP! I’m talkin’ the Myx veterans, the lowkey legends who walk among us. Head to 12 Monkeys if you feel like jumping into a time machine that can bring you back a decade or two.

Acts that have played here: True Faith, MYMP, Brownman Revival, Side A, Barbie Almalbis, Hale, Mayonnaise

Address: El Pueblo, Ortigas, Pasig



The Rooftop

Look for the door in front of Katipunan’s Center of Culinary Arts. Don’t get distracted by the collegiate cacophony going on next door and Pop-Up, which is a madhouse. Instead, patiently ascend the flights of stairs that’ll get you to The Rooftop, where DJs play dance and house in the late afternoon as beats carry you from sunset to cool evening. Personally speaking, the last time I was at Rooftop, I got so drunk my gait was reduced to a walk-of-shame shuffle, so have something to eat first. Then drink, then be merry.

Acts that have played here: LM900, Doughboy, Cisco Disco, Thirstkid

Address: 287 Katipunan Avenue, Loyola Heights, Quezon City



20:20

I know everybody knows about 20:20. But I think the outdated notion that clubs are different from gig venues still persists. A club is a gig venue. DJs are musicians. And whenever 20:20 does Circus 20:20, which is probably the closest thing to Meiday you can get these days—what with the free entrance and the crazy acts and a crowd dead-set on wilding out, it’s one of the best gig places you can treat yourself to. So make Circus a part of your monthly routine, and put 20:20 on your map for that reason.

Acts that have played here: CRWN, Jason Dhakal, Local Sun

Address: 20a La Fuerza Plaza 1, 2241 Don Chino Roces Avenue, Makati

Catch 272

Catch 272 has been around for a while but it’s on this article for three reasons. 1) Makati gets way too much attention with all its clubs and expensive food and snobby Manileños (like me) stinking up the place with gentrification. Quezon City deserves love too, and Catch 272 is the pearl of Kamuning. 2) The drinks are amazing and affordable. The most bang-for-your-buck cocktail menu you’ll ever see is here. And the bartenders are friendly too! 3) It’s a safe space. Reviews and friendly management will let you know that the bar is explicitly LGBT+ friendly. Out of every venue on this list, Catch 272 is the one with the makings of a second home.

Acts that have played here: Búeni, Pamcy, Alyana Cabral, Sleep Kitchen

Address: 41-B T. Gener, Kamuning, Quezon City

Illustrations by Chris Clemente

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Dragon dancers perform in the middle of a crowd in Binondo, Manila celebrating the Lunar New Year on Saturday, one of the most important and festive events in the Chinese calendar.

source: news.abs-cbn.com