OCTOBER 4, 2024

Vol. 9 No. 610

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CANADA’S FIRST AND ONLY NATIONWIDE FILIPINO-CANADIAN NEWSPAPER

Marcos signs VAT on foreign digital

services law
BY DARRYL JOHN ESGUERRA, PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY STORY ON PAGE 3

URBAN GREENERY
The vertical garden on the underpass wall along Epifanio de los Santos
Avenue in Cubao, Quezon City, in this photo taken on Wednesday (Oct.
2, 2024), provides a green scenery amid the usual traffic congestion.
The project is part of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority's
initiative to enhance Metro Manila's landscape. (ROBERT OSWALD P. ALFILER/PNA)

9 17 20 29

The Supreme Court of Canada Why the changing representation Being ‘mindful’ about your bank Dine and Unwind: Five
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 2 PHILIPPINE NEWS FRIDAY October 4, 2024

PBBM order on power, water restoration

'decisive' step in Marawi rehab
By Filane Mikee Cervantes right at the heart of the chal- translates into swift and con- to double down on the reha- Water Supply Project by the
Philippine News Agency lenges we continue to face in crete outcomes on the ground. bilitation efforts and focus on end of 2024.
the full rehabilitation of our In a sectoral meeting at restoring electricity, water, and Marcos also instructed Pan-
beloved city – housing, elec- Malacañan Palace, Marcos or- housing. gandaman to negotiate exten-
MANILA – A lawmaker com- tricity, and water," Adiong said. dered Presidential Adviser for The Local Water Utilities Ad- sions of temporary land-use
mended President Ferdinand He said the President’s deci- Marawi Rehabilitation Secre- ministration (LWUA) has com- agreements with private land-
R. Marcos Jr.'s recent directive sive action not only addresses a tary Nasser Pangandaman Sr. mitted to completing the Bulk owners to accommodate the
to fast-track the restoration of long-standing concern but also residents affected by the Mara-
water and electricity in Mara- reassures the people of Marawi wi siege, pending the construc-
wi City, calling it a crucial step that their needs are being rec- tion of permanent shelters.
toward the city's rehabilitation ognized and addressed by the The President said now is
and healing. government. the right time for the adminis-
In a statement on Tuesday "This marks another great tration to adopt a more system-
night, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zi- stride toward a Bagong Pili- atic approach to the Marawi
aur-Rahman "Zia" Alonto Adi- pinas of genuine and lasting rehabilitation efforts, with the
ong, who chairs the House peace. It brings us closer to the issuance of Administrative Or-
of Representatives Ad Hoc day when Marawi will stand der 14, series of 2023, which
Committee on Marawi Reha- stronger than ever, fully re- institutionalized the recovery,
bilitation and Victims Com- stored, and its people empow- reconstruction, and rehabilita-
pensation, said these services ered to rebuild their lives with tion efforts in Marawi City and
are vital to the recovery and dignity and hope," he said. the streamlining of the func-
rebuilding of the war-torn city. Adiong promised to ensure Task Force Bangon Marawi is rehabilitating Marawi City's most affected area into a modern tions of implementing agencies
"This crucial decision strikes that the President's directive community, as seen in this undated photo. (TASK FORCE BANGON MARAWI/FACEBOOK)
involved. ■

Falsification raps filed vs. Guo, notary public

By Benjamin Pulta NBI Chief Fraud and Finan- ment division,” Mallari said. we should pursue (the com- long na yun. Bine-verify namin
Philippine News Agency cial Crimes Division and Task “After the examination of our plaint),” he said. mabuti yung claims niya (We
Force Alice Guo head Palmer QDD (NBI- Questioned Docu- Santiago, a retired lower need to conduct an investiga-
Mallari said the investigation ments Division), it was proven court judge also said the claims tion on the declarations of that
MANILA – The National Bu- involved original documents that the sample signatures ap- made during the legislative in- detainee. We are verifying his
reau of Investigation (NBI) on from before and after Guo pearing on all those documents quiries by Guo’s staff that they claims),” Santiago said.
Thursday filed additional criminal slipped out of the country. as compared to the supposed had prepared signed “last pag- Remulla reiterated his of-
charges before the Department “We collected sample signa- signature appearing on the CA es” meant to be attached to fil- fice’s deep concern over the
of Justice (DOJ) against former tures on original documents were not written by one and ings on behalf of the dismissed implications of the report.
Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo before the Bamban municipal- the same person,” he said. mayor “is unacceptable.” “These allegations are very seri-
and five others over the irregulari- ity as prior sample specimen Justice Secretary Jesus Crisp- "No, that’s irregular. The affida- ous allegations. We take that seri-
ties in her filing of a sworn count- signatures. We also collected in Remulla said they would vit should be signed in the pres- ously, especially, there (are other)
er-affidavit in another case. sample specimen signatures most likely pursue the admin- ence of the notary public,” he said. things involved. There are other
Named respondents were purportedly signed subsequent istrative complaint before the Chinese agent things we have to look at, her
Guo, lawyer Elmer Galicia, to the days of the counter af- Supreme Court (SC) against Authorities, meanwhile, said birth certificate, Philippine pass-
Dante Catapay, Cheryl Medina, fidavit. This is for purposes of Galicia, the notary public. they are still studying closely port kung paano nakuha (how
Catherine Salazar, and Geral- submitting that to our docu- “Dapat lang (Absolutely), the statements made by Chi- she obtained them),” he said.
dine Pepito. nese business tycoon She Zhiji- “Itong nakita natin kay (What
“The cases we filed against ang who has admitted to being we saw in) Alice Guo reminds
them are falsification by a nota- an agent of the Chinese gov- us that we have national secu-
ry public, use of falsified docu- ernment and who has identi- rity concerns on these matters,
ments, perjury, and obstruction fied Guo as a fellow operative. where fake identity is involved.”
of justice,” NBI Director Jaime The self-confessed Chinese Remulla said they are also
Santiago said in a press briefing. agent, who is being detained in investigating reports of driver's
The charges arose from a Thailand, made the statement licenses being issued to for-
motion to re-open filed by in an Al Jazeera news report, eigners without clearance from
Guo's lawyers in a separate claiming that he had regularly the Bureau of Immigration.
charge for qualified trafficking met with Guo and warned her “May (There are) national
against her. of whom to trust. security implications itong (in
Legislators concluded that Guo has denied Zhijiang’s al- these) false identities or authen-
Guo could not have signed the legations. tic documents with false infor-
motion before the notary as “Kailangan namin na mation in them, and not prop-
she had already fled the coun- mag-conduct ng investigation erly secured... of the holders of
try by that time. Former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo (JOAN BONDOC/PNA)
nung declaration ng nakaku- these documents,” he said. ■
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 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 PHILIPPINE NEWS 3

1
Marcos signs VAT on foreign digital services law
By Darryl John Esguerra makers, musicians, the very services will ensure equitable pine Tax Code. the law, foreign companies in
Philippine News Agency people who fill our platforms tax treatment on all digital Foreign DSPs whose gross the digital space were able to
with storage and the content, businesses and will boost rev- sales or receipts for the past sell products to Filipino con-
will directly benefit. It ensures enue collections. year have exceeded PHP3 mil- sumers without the 12-percent
MANILA – President Ferdi- that our creative talents are “This is not a new tax mech- lion are required to register for VAT burden, creating an un-
nand R. Marcos Jr. signed into not just surviving in a compet- anism. We are just merely cor- value-added tax. even playing field for local art-
law on Wednesday a measure itive digital market, but will be recting the current system that Foreign DSPs are required to ists and producers.
imposing a value-added tax allowed by fairness and prog- creates an unfair advantage to designate a representative office "For the longest time, our
(VAT) on foreign digital ser- ress,” Marcos said. foreign digital service providers or agent –a resident corporation VAT system has taxed domes-
vices providers (DSPs). The President thanked the leg- and weakens the country’s tax registered under Philippine law tic creatives while allowing
A priority measure of the islators for passing the measure base, forgoing much-needed rev- to assist in compliance with the foreign companies to sell to
administration, Republic Act even as he called on companies enues that could have been used provisions of the Tax Code. Filipinos without any tax. This
(RA) 12023 imposes a 12 per- covered by the law to support to fund crucial public services, in- Non-compliant businesses meant that our local creatives
cent VAT on foreign DSPs, such and heed the rules of the Act. frastructure, and other socio-eco- will be temporarily suspended. sector was competing with
as Netflix, Disney, and HBO, to ‘Fair and square’ tax policies nomic programs,” Recto said in a Biggest winners their hands tied behind their
generate additional revenue Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, statement on Wednesday. House Ways and Means Com- backs while foreigners had full
for the government. meanwhile, said the new law “By doing this, we foster mittee Chair Joey Salceda said access to our market," he said.
In his message, Marcos said is expected to address revenue fairness, competition, and in- the Philippine creatives sector, in- Salceda said the law ends
the new law would level the losses by clarifying the taxabili- clusion in our tax system and cluding artists, artisans, and pro- this unfair treatment and will
playing field for local providers. ty of non-resident digital service marketplace. Whether you are ducers, stands to gain the most generate between PHP8 billion
“If you are reaping the re- providers and addressing the a local entrepreneur or a global from the newly enacted law. to PHP12 billion in its first year,
wards of a fruitful digital econo- ambiguity in the previous law. giant, everyone will play by the Salceda commended Pres- with the executive branch pro-
my here, it is only right that you “We believe in the importance same rules,” he added. ident Marcos for signing the jecting even higher revenues.
contribute also to its growth. Af- of creating an environment The new law strengthens the law, which addresses the dis- He said the 5-percent ear-
ter all, whether you are a small where our digital services pro- Bureau of Internal Revenue’s parity between domestic and mark for the Philippine cre-
tech startup or a global tech gi- viders, whether they are non- (BIR) authority to collect the foreign creatives. atives industry over the next
ant based halfway around the resident or local, operate under value-added tax on digital ser- "The Philippine creatives decade could be a potent source
world, if you are making money fair and square tax policies,” vices by providing measures on sector, artists, artisans, produc- of growth for the country.
here in the Philippines, you're a Gatchalian said in a statement. how foreign DSPs can comply ers, are the biggest winners in Salceda drew comparisons
part of our community, and with He said the new measure with the value-added tax re- this law," he said. to South Korea’s investment
that comes a shared responsibil- does not mean a new tax im- quirements under the Philip- Salceda added that prior to in its cultural sector following
ity,” Marcos said. position. the 1997 Asian financial crisis
According to the President, “Hindi tayo nagpapataw and the 2008 global recession,
about PHP105 billion in revenue ng bagong buwis. Kokolekta- suggesting that the Philippines
is expected to be collected in the hin lang natin ang buwis na can similarly boost its creatives
next five years due to RA 12023. dapat naman talaga nating na- industry with targeted support.
The amount is enough to kokolekta mula sa mga dayu- "The Philippines is ASEAN’s
build 42,000 classrooms, more hang (We are not imposing largest creatives sector export-
than 6,000 rural health units, new taxes. We will only collect er, and we have an absolute ad-
and 7,000 km of farm-to-market the tax that we should be col- vantage in this field due to our
roads, the Chief Executive noted. lecting from foreign) digital culture, predisposition, and mul-
Additionally, 5 percent of the service providers,” he said. tilingual society. It is time we in-
revenues generated by the law Revenue boost vest heavily here," he said. (With
will be allocated to the local Finance Secretary Ralph reports from Wilnard Bacelonia,
creative industry. Recto, for his part, said the en- Filane Cervantes and Anna Leah
“This means our artists, film- actment of the VAT on digital PBBM signs VAT on Digital Services Law (PCO)
Gonzales/PNA) ■

DFA concerned, monitoring reports of

‘foreign covert ops’ in PH
By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora DFA office in Pasay, Daza said takes such reports seriously and out to its Chinese counterpart, earlier said the government has
Philippine News Agency the issue is an “area of concern” is monitoring relevant develop- Daza said she has no informa- “effective counterintelligence ef-
and that the DFA is currently co- ments in this regard,” she said. tion as of yet. forts” against foreign spies.
ordinating with relevant govern- The DFA issued the state- “That’s as far as we can say NSC Assistant Director General
MANILA – The Department ment agencies on the matter. ment days after a House panel relevant to this topic. What’s Jonathan Malaya said the council
of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is “The Department has noted discussed an Al Jazeera docu- important is we are actually has to validate the information
closely monitoring reports of reports containing relevant in- mentary that featured tycoon coordinating with other agen- disclosed by She first “consider-
alleged foreign covert oper- formation on alleged foreign She Zhijiang, who claimed that cies on it because it is a con- ing that the person is not entirely
ations in the Philippines, its covert operations in the Phil- he was a Chinese spy and had cern,” she said, noting that the credible being a wanted criminal
spokesperson Ma. Teresita ippines. In accordance with its spoken with dismissed Bam- DFA has seen the documentary. and leader of an international
Daza said Thursday. mandate to help protect na- ban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo. In an ABS-CBN interview, the crime syndicate”. ■
Speaking to reporters at the tional security, the Department Asked if the DFA has reached National Security Council (NSC)
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 4 PHILIPPINE NEWS FRIDAY October 4, 2024

PBBM vows to bring Lab House to prioritize

for All medical services higher pay, more
to isolated areas benefits for teachers
By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos But for our unfortunate coun- vices for everyone, especially By Filane Mikee Cervantes the Bagong Pilipinas campaign.
Philippine News Agency trymen, getting sick is a chal- those who need it the most).” Philippine News Agency “As we always say, education
lenge, especially those in re- Marcos said the Lab for All is the foundation of everyone’s
mote areas),” Marcos said. Project would benefit Filipinos success, and for which this ad-
MANILA – President Ferdi- “Kaya po ang mga proyekto who are most in need, especial- MANILA – The House of ministration will vigorously
nand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday tulad nitong Lab for All ay isang ly senior citizens, persons with Representatives will prioritize pursue in our ‘Bagong Pilipinas’
pledged that the current ad- napakalaking tulong para sa disabilities, pregnant women, improving the salaries, ben- theme. And you as teachers,
ministration would make sure ating mga kababayan. Layun- and people who are immuno- efits, and access to addition- being pillars of our education
that the “Lab for All” Project, in nito ang makapaghatid ng compromised. al resources for the country's system, will be there as guiding
which offers free medical ser- maaasahang serbisyong medi- The Lab for All is a priority nearly 1 million public school light for our youth,” he said.
vices to Filipinos in need, will kal para sa lahat, lalung-lalo project of the First Lady who teachers, Speaker Martin Ro- Higher World Teachers'
reach the 7,063 geographically na sa mga pinakanangangail- was also present during the mualdez vowed on Thursday. Day incentive pushed
isolated and disadvantaged ar- angan (That's why projects like caravan in Pasig City. Romualdez gave the assur- Makati City Rep. Luis Cam-
eas (GIDAs) in the country. this Lab for All are a huge help The project aims to make ance during the 2024 National pos Jr., meanwhile, has com-
During the Lab for All car- to our countrymen. Its goal is Teachers' Day Culminating Cel- mitted to push for an increase
avan at the Rizal High School to deliver reliable medical ser- PAGE 16 PBBM vows to ebration at the Araneta Colise- in the World Teachers’ Day
in Pasig City, Marcos said the um in Cubao, Quezon City. Incentive Benefit (WTDIB) to
project, spearheaded by no “In all of the challenges that PHP3,000 per teacher through
less than First Lady Liza Ara- you face, we in Congress must House Bill 7840.
neta-Marcos, aims to bridge stress that we will not waver The proposal aims to raise
the gap in the country’s health in our promise to give you (in the current incentive of
care system. the Department of Education) PHP1,000 and institutionalize
“Ang kalusugan po ay kaya- our continued support in your the benefit.
manan. Walang silbi ang lahat programs, not just for the laws “We must augment the val-
ng yaman kung hindi maayos that we pass, but for the better- ue of the WTDIB and make
ang ating kalusugan. Ngunit ment of our teachers as well,” the grant of this incentive per-
para sa mga kapus-palad nat- Romualdez said. manent through legislation,”
ing kababayan, higit na mas “And this includes high- Campos said.
malaking pagsubok ang pagka- er pay, more benefits, which For this year's celebration,
kasakit, lalo na ang mga nasa should extend to more oppor- Campos said the government
malalayong lugar (Health is tunities for training and prog- has set aside a total funding
wealth. Wealth is useless if ress of everyone,” he added. of PHP912 million in the 2024
we do not have good health. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (PCO)
Romualdez said the adminis- General Appropriations Law
tration of President Ferdinand for the WTDIB.
R. Marcos Jr., with the help of “Congress earmarked the sum
Education Secretary Sonny An- of PHP912 million to fund the
gara, is committed to deliver- WTDIB at PHP1,000 per public
ing on its promises. school teacher, payable on Octo-
7.4M applicants register in “Our promise will definitely
not end up as mere lip service.
ber 5. This allocation is itemized
in the 2024 General Appropria-
The administration of Presi- tions Law,” Campos said.
7-month voter sign-up period dent Marcos will make sure
that you are equipped with all
He noted that the allocation
for 2025 has been increased
the necessary tools that will ad- to PHP955 million to continue
By Ferdinand Patinio Calabarzon topped the num- 240,544; Mimaropa, 214,517; vance your chosen career, but the annual incentive.
Philippine News Agency ber of registrants with 1,223,159, Cagayan Valley, 213,653; and will also ultimately redound to “We are determined to sus-
followed by the National Capital Caraga, 203,132. the benefit of our future lead- tain the annual funding for
Region with 997,062 and Central The region with the lowest ers,” Romualdez said. the WTDIB for our teachers.
MANILA – Over 7.4 million in- Luzon with 834,467. number of registrants is Cordil- He also thanked educators In fact, the 2025 national bud-
dividuals have applied as voters Bangsamoro Autonomous lera Administrative Region at for their devotion and dedica- get we approved last month
during the seven-month nation- Region in Muslim Mindan- 111,410. tion in shaping students into includes another PHP955 mil-
wide registration period for the ao (BARMM) has processed Aside from registration for “productive citizens of our pro- lion allocation for this benefit,”
May 2025 midterm elections. 416,866 registrants; Davao re- new voters, the voter regis- gressing society.” Campos said.
The latest data from gion, 411,879; Central Visayas, tration also processed appli- “We salute our teachers who The benefit aims to recog-
the Commission Elections 387,586; Bicol, 365,464; cations for transfer, change/ have made sacrifices beyond nize the contribution of educa-
(Comelec) released Wednes- Northern Mindanao, 344,083. corrections of entries in the their limits, who always go out tors and is distributed annually
day showed 7,427,354 applica- Meanwhile, Ilocos re- registration records, reactiva- of their way to help our students on World Teachers’ Day.
tions were processed from Feb. gion logged 301,645 regis- tion of registration records, in- learn so that they will be fully The WTDIB was first includ-
12 to Sept. 30. trants; Zamboanga Peninsula, clusion of registration records prepared for the realities and ed in the 2019 General Appro-
This, however, excluded Ba- 297,086; Negros Island Re- and reinstatement of name in struggles of life the moment they priations Law with an initial
tanes province, which extended gion, 293,760; Eastern Vi- the list of voters, and transfer enter our labor force,” he said. funding of PHP800 million.
the voter sign-up until Tuesday sayas, 287,401; Soccsksargen, of registration records from He said the government will
due to Super Typhoon Julian. 283,640, Western Visayas, foreign service post to local. ■ pursue education reforms under PAGE 12 House to prioritize

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 6 PHILIPPINE NEWS FRIDAY October 4, 2024

Double Olympic DOJ launches awareness

gold medalist Yulo campaign on critical issues
joins Navy reserve By Benjamin Pulta and discrimination, as well as students from the San Sebas-
Philippine News Agency other critical issues. tian College of Law in Manila
“By engaging experts, advo- on Monday to tackle vital top-
By Priam Nepomuceno with immense pride. With all cates, and community leaders, ics of rape and the Safe Spaces
Philippine News Agency my heart, I thank the PN for MANILA – The Department the lecture series seeks to edu- Act, according to the DOJ.
this prestigious recognition. I of Justice Action Center (DO- cate and inspire participants to DOJAC head Undersecre-
will uphold its core values and JAC) has launched its “Jus- advocate for justice and equal- tary Margarita Gutierrez un-
MANILA – Double Paris inspire today’s youth, showing tice in Action Lecture Series” ity,” the DOJ said in a news re- derscored during the session
2024 Olympic gold medalist them that through sports, they to raise awareness, provide a lease Tuesday. the urgency of the awareness
gymnast Carlos Edriel Yulo too can serve our country,” platform for open dialogue, Working with women’s campaign in addressing abuse
formally joined the Philippine Yulo said. and empower individuals to rights group Kababaihan, the against women.
Navy (PN) Reserve Force. Adaci commended Yulo for take action against violence inaugural session gathered law “It is heartbreaking to know
In a news release, Navy joining the PN Reserve Force that for every case we hear or
spokesperson Commander and for his dedication, which study about, countless others
John Percie Alcos said Yulo took resulted in his double gold vic- remain silent and unreported,
his oath in simple rites presid- tory in the men's gymnastics trapped in shadows of fear and
ed by Naval Reserve Command floor exercise and vault event stigma. We see only the tip of
head Maj. Gen. Joseph Ferrous of the recently concluded Sum- the iceberg, while beneath the
Cuison, who represented Navy mer Games. surface lies a vast ocean of suf-
chief Vice Admiral Toribio Ad- “Your dedication, discipline, fering and unspoken truths,”
aci Jr., at the PN headquarters and drive made you a champi- she said.
in Naval Station Jose Andrada, on on the world stage, and now, “We must be the voices for
Roxas Boulevard, Manila on you bring those same qualities those who cannot speak, the
Tuesday. to the PN. We know that when advocates for those who have
The star gymnast was giv- you commit to something, you been silenced by fear.”
en the Petty Officer 1st Class give it your all. I am confident Gutierrez encouraged the
(PO1) rank. you will do the same as a re- participants and members of
“I am proud to have the servist, standing alongside men the community to join the lec-
privilege of being enlisted in and women who dedicate their ture series and be part of the
the Philippine Navy Reserve lives to protecting and uplift- The Department of Justice Action Center (DOJAC) launched the “Justice in Action movement towards a safer and
Force, a recognition I never ing our nation,” Adaci said in Lecture Series” on Monday in a bid to raise awareness, provide a platform for open more equitable society.
expected in my lifetime. Wear- his message read by Cuison. ■ dialogue, and empower individuals to take action against violence and discrimi-

ing this Navy uniform fills me nation, as well as other critical issues. (DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE - PHILIPPINES/FACEBOOK)
PAGE 12 DOJ launches awareness

Senators call for vigilance vs. ‘Alice Guos’

seeking public office
By Wilnard Bacelonia mapagmatyag at tiyakin na hin- If you don't qualify even in just For Senate Majority Lead- Hence let’s not be too worried
Philippine News Agency di sana mangyari yun. At kung one out of the five, you can be er Francis Tolentino, everyone about it," Pimentel said.
mangyayari man, agad mahuhu- disqualified as a candidate)," should be involved in making sure "There is a need to be vigilant,
li (It is still possible. It is our job Escudero explained. that candidates are qualified. but no need to panic," he added.
MANILA – Senators on to be vigilant and ensure that it If the candidate was able to win "Thats why the Comelec The ongoing filing of COCs is
Wednesday urged for vigilance will not happen. And if it does and be proclaimed by the Comelec should be vigilant as well. While seen by Senator Grace Poe as “an
among voters to prevent can- happen, it can be immediately like Guo, he said a quo warranto their function is ministerial to opportunity to stop illegal and
didates like dismissed Bamban flagged)," Escudero said. can be issued if it is proven later accept COCs, the general public undesirable individuals from en-
mayor Alice Guo from being However, he pointed out that on that he/she is not qualified or and the intelligence community tering our electoral system."
elected into any public office this a candidate can be disqualified if have violated the law. should assist," Tolentino said in "At the onset, Comelec
coming 2025 mid-term elections. it is proven that he/she is not a "Sa tulong ng ating mga ka- a Viber message to reporters. should be able to screen strin-
In a press briefing, Senate citizen of the Philippines, did not babayan na dapat maghain ng Meanwhile, Senate Minority gently the aspirant's documents
President Francis Escudero said qualify for the age requirement karampatang impormasyon Leader Aquilino Pimentel III sets and qualifications, such as the
the likes of Guo getting elected of the position being sought, not kaugnay sa kawalan o kakulan- aside the fears that a foreigner, most basic requirement wheth-
is a possibility considering that a resident, a registered voter, or gan sa requirements ng sinu- like what Guo is being accused of, er he or she is a Filipino," Poe
the mandate of the Commis- not able to read and write. mang kakandidato (Through will be elected into public office. said in a separate statement.
sion on Elections' (Comelec) in "Lima ang qualifications. the help of our countrymen "There are remedies too af- "Concerned agencies should
receiving certificates of candi- Kung hindi mo taglay ang isa who will file the necessary in- ter the fact of election. As seen be vigilant and see to it that we
dacy is ministerial in nature. sa lima, pwede kang ipa-dis- formation related to lack or in the Alice Guo case. It is not don't have another Alice Guo
"May posibilidad pa rin yun. qualify bilang isang kandidato absence of requirements of any worth it, as these unqualified
Trabaho nating lahat na maging (There are five qualifications. candidate)," Escudero said. persons stand to lose everything. PAGE 11 Senators call for

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 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 PHILIPPINE NEWS 7

Quadcom urges Roque to surrender amid SC decision

By Jose Cielito Reganit es, situations that do not apply attempts to deflect account- of justice are turning, and no trajudicial killings.
Philippine News Agency in Roque’s case. ability, Fernandez emphasized amount of legal gymnastics "The Quad Committee is un-
“Sumuko ka na (Surrender the need for individuals in po- will protect those complicit in covering layers of criminal ac-
now), Attorney Roque,” Fer- sitions of power or influence to these crimes,” he said. tivities tied to POGOs, and we
MANILA – The House of nandez said, noting that the set a good example. Meanwhile, Barbers, the need full transparency from ev-
Representatives Quad Commit- former Duterte administration “Nakakabahala na sa halip overall chair of the Quadcom, eryone involved," said Barbers,
tee (Quadcom) on Wednesday official’s attempts to evade jus- na mag-cooperate, ang ginaga- urged Roque to heed the rule who also chairs the House Com-
called on former presidential tice and avoid accountability wa ng iba ay palaging tina- of law and cooperate with the mittee on Dangerous Drugs.
spokesperson Harry Roque to through legal maneuvers have takbuhan ang kanilang mga ongoing investigation, which "Kung walang itinatago si
surrender to the panel after the become futile. pananagutan (It is alarming has uncovered alarming con- Attorney Roque, bakit siya
Supreme Court (SC) voided his He also pointed out that that instead of cooperating, nections between POGOs and nagtatago (If Attorney Roque
only legal recourse against the Roque’s rights have not been others resort to evading their other illicit activities, including has nothing to hide, why is he
committee's detention order. violated as the Supreme Court accountabilities). The wheels illegal drug syndicates and ex- hiding)? The public deserves to
Santa Rosa City Rep. Dan confirmed. know the truth,” he added.
Fernandez and Surigao del "Hindi na ito ang panahon Barbers also encouraged
Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers para magpalusot (This is not Roque to respect the legal
made the call following the SC the time for making excuses). process rather than resort to
decision on Roque’s petition Attorney Roque should face actions that sow confusion
for a writ of amparo, a protec- the music and answer the al- among the public.
tive writ he applied to escape legations in the proper forum. "If he believes he is innocent,
detention as the Quadcom in- Ang batas ang dapat manaig. he should welcome the oppor-
vestigates his involvement in Hindi dapat itago ni Roque tunity to clear his name in a
the illegal activities of Philip- ang kanyang sarili sa likod ng proper legal forum. Trying to
pine Offshore Gaming Opera- mga technicalities o mga writ escape through technicalities
tors (POGOs). na wala namang basehan (The only raises more suspicions,”
The SC decision, handed law should prevail. He should he said. “This investigation
down on Oct. 1, clarified that not hide behind technicalities is not just about POGOs. It is
the writ of amparo is intended or writs that have no basis),” about dismantling a complex
for cases of extrajudicial kill- he said. web of criminality that threat-
ings or enforced disappearanc- In light of Roque’s repeated (HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE PHILIPPINES/FACEBOOK)
ens our society.” ■

DA eyes quick turnaround as palay losses

seen to breach annual average
By Stephanie Sevillano age due to possible flooding. damaged areas are immediate- all damaged, that’s somehow a risk, and still depends on the
Philippine News Agency In a phone interview, DA Assis- ly replanted after poor weather. large figure to be added on the areas that will be flooded),”
tant Secretary Arnel de Mesa as- De Mesa said out of the previous) damage, it can easi- the DA official said.
sured interventions to farmers for 51,863 hectares, some 44,326 ly breach iyong (the) 600,000 Despite this, De Mesa main-
MANILA – The Department replanting in case Super Typhoon hectares are in the ripening metric tons,” De Mesa said. tained optimism in hitting the
of Agriculture (DA) on Tues- Julian leaves major damages. phase while the remaining The DA has earlier reported DA’s 20.4 million MT palay
day said it is eyeing a “quick “Ang palaging response na- 17,500 hectares are still in the 420,000 MT of rice production production target for the year.
turnaround” for palay produc- tin iyong (Our usual response reproductive phase. losses due to the combined effects "Of course, may La Niña tayo.
tion recovery as palay losses is the) quick turnaround for ar- The areas may be equivalent to of the El Niño phenomenon and Iyong (we still have La Niña),
are seen to breach the annual eas na pwedeng maka-recover. around 200,000 MT of possible previous weather disturbances. The National Rice program is
500,000 metric tons (MT) to Kunwari (that can still recover. rice production losses, he added. “Definitely, hindi naman la- still hoping that, at least, we
600,000 MT projection. For example,) for October, four “Assuming na lahat ito, me- hat iyan, at risk lang, depende can still match the harvest last
This came as Super Typhoon months, they can still harvest dyo malaki iyan na madada- kung gaano kalaki iyong baha year of 20 million metric tons.
Julian placed 51,863 hectares by January,” he said. gdag doon sa mga previously sa areas na dadaanan (all of it So that’s still the projection,
of planted rice at risk of dam- He said this is possible if na mga (Assuming these are will not be damaged, only at hopefully,” he said. ■

www.canadianinquirer.net
8 PHILIPPINE NEWS FRIDAY October 4, 2024

NAIA airport fee hike approved by

Cabinet – DOTr
By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz was a “false statement.” Undersecretary for Aviation and Air-
Philippine News Agency “Sinasabi dun na (It said) we ap- ports Bobby Lim are facing heightened
proved the rates without approval from scrutiny over airport fee hikes without a
CORRESPONDENT/HOSTS Cabinet. It passed through the Cabinet green light from the Cabinet.
Arianne Grace Lacanilao MANILA – Transportation Secretary meetings. We had many Cabinet meet- This came after the New NAIA Infra-
Matte Laurel-Zalko
Violeta Arevalo
Jaime Bautista clarified on Thursday ings to discuss this,” he said. structure Corp. (NNIC) announced high-
Babes Newland that the recent hike in airport fees at He added that President Ferdinand R. er airport terminal fees that will take ef-
the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Marcos Jr. himself supported the move. fect beginning September next year, from
GRAPHIC DESIGN
(NAIA) was discussed during several The DOTr chief, however, said they a domestic terminal fee of PHP200 to
Ginno Alcantara Cabinet meetings and was not a uni- have no plans to sue the individual who PHP550 while international passengers
Colleene T. Singca lateral decision by the Department of published the false report. will have to pay PHP950 from PHP550.
Transportation (DOTr). On Monday, Bautista slammed a re- The Manila International Airport Au-
ACCOUNT MANAGER In a statement, Bautista said a recent port by business news website Bily- thority (MIAA) also announced the im-
Kristopher Yong report claiming that the airport fee hike naryo as “malicious and unfounded.” plementation of higher parking rates at
was a unilateral decision by the agency The report claimed that he and DOTr NAIA starting Oct. 1. ■
DIRECTOR/PRODUCER
Boom Dayupay

PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER
Ginno Alcantara

MANAGEMENT
Alan Yong
Remulla urges fraternities to shun
•••
violent initiation rites
By Benjamin Pulta To date, this is the biggest legal victory confidence in us, thank you for believ-
Philippine News Agency against fraternity hazing since the passage ing in justice, you empower us to strive
For photo submissions, please email
[email protected]
of Republic Act 11053, also known as the for excellence in upholding the rule of
Anti-Hazing Law of 2018, which amended law," Remulla told the Castillo family.
For general inquiries, please email
[email protected]
MANILA – Justice Secretary Jesus Republic Act 8049, the country’s first an- The Castillo family has earlier
Crispin Remulla on Wednesday urged ti-hazing legislation enacted in 1995. thanked the DOJ for its active prosecu-
For sales inquiries, please email
[email protected]
or visit fraternities to ditch violence, following Remulla hailed Deputy State Prose- tion of the case which led to the mile-
the conviction of 10 University of San- cutor Olivia Torrevillas, Senior Assistant stone court victory.
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Philippine Canadian Inquirer is located at to Tomas fraternity members implicat- State Prosecutor Wendell Bendoval, Se- In an article published by UST's Var-
200-13888 Wireless Way,
Richmond, BC
ed in the death of law student Horatio nior Asst. City Prosecutor Susan Villanue- sitarian, the parents of Castillo com-
“Atio” Castillo III in 2017. va, former Assistant State Prosecutor and mended the DOJ for establishing a
"Fraternities are created by brother- now Judge Claire Eufracia Pagayanan, "very good" prosecution team, produc-
••• hood, friendship and mutual support ASP Honey Rose Delgado, and Prosecu- ing vital evidence to solidify the cases
where violence never had a place to be- tion Attorney Criselda Teoxon-Yanga for against the accused members of the Ae-
gin with. To our younger generations, successfully prosecuting the case which gis Juris fraternity
Philippine Canadian Inquirer foster real friendships which will em- led to the conviction of the accused. Castillo’s mother, Carmina, went on
power and give you a better future, not He also expressed his sincere grati- to praise the relentless efforts of the
is published daily online, 24/7.

Copies are distributed free throughout those which cause pain and suffering," tude to Atio's family as well for trusting handling prosecutors expressing their
Remulla said in a news release. the Department of Justice (DOJ). family's confidence to win this case be-
Metro Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, and
Greater Toronto.
He said the conviction of the accused "Thank you for placing your trust and fore the court's promulgation. ■
in Castillo’s death should serve as a
The views and opinions expressed in the
articles (including opinions expressed in
ads herein) are those of authors named, warning to those who engage in frater-
nity hazing.
and are not necessarily those of
Philippine Canadian Inquirer Editorial
Team. “You can never evade the law,” he
PCI reserves the right to reject any stressed.
advertising which it considers to contain The Manila Regional Trial Court
false or misleading information or
involves unfair or unethical practices. The
(RTC) Branch 11 on Tuesday sentenced
advertiser agrees the publisher shall not all accused to suffer the penalty of re-
be liable for damages arising out of error
in any advertisment.
clusion perpetua or life imprisonment
ranging from 20 to 40 years, aside from
MEMBER
the indemnification of Castillo’s family
after seven long years of rigorous trials
and investigations.
“The untimely death of Atio caused
pain, agony, anxiety, suffering and men-
tal anguish to his heirs because it de-
prived them his company, love, support
and companionship,” Presiding Judge
Shirley Paglilauan said in her ruling.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla (YANCY LIM/PNA)

www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 9

CANADA NEWS
The Supreme Court of Canada is wrong
to refuse to translate its pre-1970 decisions
By Yan Campagnolo, for the Court’s inaction on this In fact, many Supreme by the authors of the original of unilingual decisions the
L’Université d’Ottawa/ matter at his annual press con- Court decisions of that era are decisions. This does not mean, Supreme Court handed down
University of Ottawa, ference on June 3, 2024: still taught in Canadian law however, that they would be before 1970 is certainly an am-
François Larocque, 1. The old decisions are of schools. Moreover, lawyers still useless. From an access to jus- bitious and costly project. It
L’Université d’Ottawa/ purely historical interest. refer to pre-1970 precedents tice perspective, in an officially would surely take more than
University of Ottawa, 2. Any translations would be in their daily practice to sup- bilingual country, citizens, law the 18 months recommended
Lawrence David, L’Université unofficial. port their legal pleadings. The students, lawyers, and judges by the Commissioner. It is a
d’Ottawa/University of 3. The Court lacks the neces- Supreme Court itself regularly should have access to all the long-term project that would
Ottawa sary resources. cites its old decisions. decisions of the Supreme Court likely take several years.
The Conversation As constitutionalists and ex- One need only think of R. v. in both English and French. However, simply because
perts in language rights, we do Comeau, in which the highest It is also important to note translating the unilingual deci-
not find these reasons particu- court relied on a decision it that official French versions of sions may take some time is not
The Supreme Court of Canada larly convincing. had rendered on interprovin- several Canadian constitutional a valid reason for refusing to
has published all of its decisions Legal significance of old cial trade in 1921. Another ex- documents, including the Consti- undertake the project. If Mani-
in both official languages since decisions ample is St. Lawrence Cement tution Act, 1867, remain unavail- toba managed to translate and
1970, immediately after the Of- The Chief Justice argued that Inc. v. Barrette, in which the able. Yet, recognizing the impor- re-enact nearly 100 years of En-
ficial Languages Act was enacted. the legal value of old Supreme Court cited an 1896 decision tance of accessibility, the federal glish-only legislation following
But what about the decisions Court decisions is “minute.” He on neighbourhood disturbanc- government has provided unoffi- the Court’s decision in Reference
the highest court handed down referred to these decisions as be- es. Other classic decisions, such cial French translations of these Re Manitoba Language Rights,
prior to 1970? Should these ing merely part of our “legal cul- as Roncarelli v. Duplessis, in documents. These translations the Supreme Court should logi-
decisions, which were mostly tural heritage.” Given the rapid which the Court found that the ensure francophones can read cally be capable of meeting this
written in English, be translat- evolution of the law, especially Premier of Québec had abused these crucial legal texts while type of challenge as well.
ed so that they are available in since the adoption of the Cana- his power, remain particularly waiting for them to be formally The Supreme Court should
both official languages? dian Charter of Rights and Free- important. These decisions are adopted under section 55 of the seize the opportunity and rec-
Until very recently, the OLA doms, he said that “no one today among the threads that make Constitution Act, 1982, thereby ognize that, because of its sta-
was not interpreted as requir- [would] refer to a precedent up the fabric of Canadian law. enhancing access to justice. tus and importance, all of its
ing the Supreme Court to trans- from 1892 to support their case.” Unofficial status of trans- Lack of resources decisions must be available in
late its old decisions. However, These statements are aston- lated decisions Finally, the Chief Justice both official languages. Publish-
in 2021, in response to a com- ishing. In a common law sys- The Chief Justice also point- asserted that translating the ing all the Court’s decisions in
plaint filed by lawyer Marie-An- tem such as ours, judicial de- ed out that translations of Su- Supreme Court’s old decisions both official languages is clearly
drée Denis-Boileau, the Com- cisions are legally authoritative preme Court decisions from would require the services of consistent with the spirit of the
missioner of Official Languages, unless explicitly overturned. before 1970 would not have some 100 translators and cost OLA, the principle of substantive
Raymond Théberge, held that In accordance with the rule official status, because the au- between $10 million and $20 equality of English and French,
the Court was in breach of the of precedent (stare decisis), thors of these decisions are de- million. He said the Court does and the constitutional provisions
OLA by publishing unilingual courts must apply the rules ceased and therefore could not not have those resources or the that protect the rights of official
decisions on its website, on the of law established in previous verify or approve them. staff to ensure the quality of language minorities.
grounds that they constitute decisions when similar situa- It is true that the transla- the translations produced. In carrying out this project,
communications with the pub- tions arise. The rule of prece- tions could not be approved Translating the thousands the Supreme Court should give
lic by a federal institution. dent lends stability to the law, priority to translating the old
The Commissioner recom- allowing individuals to plan decisions most regularly cited
mended that the Court trans- their activities so that they stay by Canadian courts (i.e., those
late its pre-1970 decisions within the applicable rules. that are most relevant). While
within 18 months. On Sept. 17, As such, unless they have the translation project could
he reiterated this recommen- been explicitly set aside, deci- not be accomplished solely us-
dation in response to another sions of the highest court from ing artificial intelligence tools,
complaint, filed by Droits col- before 1970 still have prec- these tools could be expected to
lectifs Québec. Regrettably, the edential value. They are part of play a growing role in it as time
Court has not implemented the Canada’s normative landscape. goes on, facilitating the work of
Commissioner’s repeated rec- Lower courts are required to the translators involved.
ommendations. apply the rules of law estab- Federal government’s role
The Supreme Court and the lished by the Supreme Court, As the Supreme Court it-
Commissioner clearly disagree including those handed down self recognized in R. v. Beau-
about the requirements of the prior to 1970. Similarly, the lac, “administrative inconve-
OLA. In addition to this inter- Supreme Court must follow its nience” and “financial costs”
pretative divergence, the Chief own precedents, unless it de- are not valid reasons for refus-
Justice of Canada, Richard termines there is a “compelling
Wagner, offered three reasons reason” to depart from them. (SUPREME COURT OF CANADA/FACEBOOK)
PAGE 28 The Supreme Court

www.canadianinquirer.net
 10 CANADA NEWS FRIDAY October 4, 2024

Bulking up the Privy Council Office isn’t the

solution to what ails the public service
By Michael Wernick advisory support on economic erating officer reporting to the Also, by choosing one or Moreover, the Treasury Board
Policy Options and fiscal matters in crafting prime minister, as was argued two common priorities for the is the employer for most federal
federal budgets in concert with in a recent op-ed. whole public service each year public servants. It handles col-
the Department of Finance. The Privy Council Of- – the “clerk’s priorities” – there lective bargaining on behalf of
Serious reform of the public The potential scope for PCO fice does not possess a com- is also significant sway over the almost all departments and de-
service must pass through the is as wide as the ultimate re- mand-and-control role. public service. termines the rules of the game
inevitable gatekeeper of the sponsibilities of the country’s The influence of the clerk, However, the real authority for classification and staffing. It
Treasury Board, but with a new top leadership. As such, it is of- who leads the PCO, comes not and impact on management was the organization that deter-
role and name. ten tempting for a prime minis- from executive authority but and delivery by the federal mined the evolving and contro-
The next federal govern- ter to add special purpose units from having close proximity to public service is vested by leg- versial models for hybrid work
ment we elect, whenever that to PCO to signal that something the prime minister. Ministers islation in the Treasury Board for civil servants.
happens, will have its hands is a priority and needs an extra and senior officials worry what Secretariat. Streamlined decision-making
full as Canada struggles with dose of direction from the top. the clerk is thinking and advis- The Treasury Board Secretar- The next government would
a stubbornly sluggish econo- Over time, the specific func- ing – regarding policy but also iat is the unavoidable gatekeep- be advised to give serious at-
my while global conflicts and tions of teams added or re- regarding their performance er for the other 300-plus federal tention to the effectiveness and
trade disputes draw precious moved from the PCO have and career options. They view government entities who need productivity of the public ser-
time and attention. Housing, always reflected the needs the clerk as someone who can approval for corporate plans, vice. But the way to get there
climate, immigration, recon- of prime ministers and of the address issues, remove obsta- funding submissions, reorgani- isn’t by bulking up PCO. This
ciliation, disruptions caused by times in which they governed. cles, iron out frictions with zations and other administrative can be best achieved by rein-
AI – the list is a long one. Some recent such add-ons their departments or help work decisions. It is the “centre” from forcing the role of the Treasury
By 2026 Quebec separat- include: through disagreements with which policies, regulations and Board instead. There is no road
ism may return to the agenda, • Canada-US relations; Cit- cabinet colleagues. guidelines emanate to other or- to serious public service reform
drawing foreign interference ies; Indigenous issues; and the The “hard power” comes ganizations regarding financial that does not pass through the
like a magnet. first version of a national sci- from the role the clerk has in management, human resources, Treasury Board.
To deal with all of this, the ence adviser (Paul Martin) cabinet shuffles and the ap- information technology, procure- Better results could be
Prime Minister, whoever it is, • An Afghanistan task force; pointment of senior personnel. ment, service delivery, security achieved in several ways, in-
will need to pay attention to a unit on Canada-US regulatory It is advice from the clerk that and many other aspects of “how” cluding:
the capabilities, performance harmonization; a special adviser drives the movement of deputy the public service operates. • Renaming and rebranding
and productivity of the public on human smuggling and illegal ministers and their annual per- It issued guidance on the use the Treasury Board as Man-
service and will need a strong migration (Stephen Harper) formance pay. of artificial intelligence. agement and Implementation
department close at hand. But • PM’s youth council; a spe- Board to clearly convey the
it would be a mistake to bulk up cial adviser on LGBTQ2 issues; breadth and depth of its role.
the Privy Council Office with a a results and delivery unit • Add “Chief Operating Offi-
lot of new bespoke functions, as (Justin Trudeau) cer of the Government of Cana-
has happened in the past. My advice: the next prime da” to the title of both the min-
Over the years (during minister should resist adding ister and deputy minister.
which I have had the privilege bespoke units to the PCO as a • Issue the annual report
of serving in multiple roles un- form of political signaling and on the public service from the
der several prime ministers), be ruthless in winding them up. Management and Implementa-
the PCO has gone through a Before you go there, start by tion Board Minister rather than
lot of shape shifting but its en- making sure the enduring core the clerk of the PCO.
during core functions are the functions at the PCO are in good • Create a permanent adviso-
ones that support cabinet de- shape. Stick to the core role of ry council on the public service
liberation and the unique roles supporting cabinet. Make sure and have it report to the Man-
of the prime minister. These the PCO is agile and responsive agement and Implementation
include relations with premiers to emerging issues. Use short Board minister, who would be
and other international lead- term task teams and committees obliged to publish its reports.
ers. PCO also keeps the flow of of ministers with chairs that are • Fund research and consulta-
executive orders and appoint- empowered to get results. tions with the mandate to gener-
ments moving. Complementary centres of ate a continuous supply chain of
There are also teams dedi- power ideas and input on how to make
cated to national security and It would be a mistake to view
intelligence, and to provide the PCO as a kind of chief op- Office of the Prime Minister and Privy Council Office (DARYL_MITCHELL/FLICKR, CC BY-SA 2.0)
PAGE 20 Bulking up the

www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 CANADA NEWS 11

What’s ahead for municipal policing in Canada

after B.C. court decision ousts the RCMP in Surrey
By Bryce J. Casavant, Royal although the Surrey Police Ser- lice Service a reality by inte-
Roads University vice was newly formed, there’s grating co-operative and mod-
The Conversation been municipal policing in Sur- ern approaches in technology
rey since early in its history. and focusing on officer and
“The first constable was community wellness, human
The RCMP’s efforts to main- hired in 1887 and the first dynamics, transparency and
tain authority in British Co- chief of police 1909,” he said. sound leadership.
lumbia have failed following a That’s well-documented in These goals will be illustrat-
power struggle with the newly provincial policing archives ed by uniforms with name tags
formed Surrey Police Service. and historical police associa- in multiple languages, patrol
The B.C. Supreme Court’s tion writings. vehicles marked as “commu-
ruling against keeping the In one example, an RCMP nity first” and a strong inner
RCMP in Surrey charts a path Veterans’ Association’s archi- circle and oversight board that
for other Canadian communi- val missive describes the story promotes advanced officer
ties to make the transition to of the late Surrey Police Const. (WAFERBOARD/FLICKR, CC BY 2.0)
training programs and sup-
municipal policing. Paul Starek. ports their chosen leadership.
Soon after the decision, the He was sitting in the old In November 1985, Surrey Surrey Ditching the Red Serge in
federal government issued a Surrey Municipal Police Of- Mayor Don Ross said on a live Lipinski, who holds an MBA Canadian towns?
joint statement with the Sur- fice in April 1951 at around newscast special entitled “Sur- and is a licenced lawyer, was The federal government’s
rey Police Service on its will- midnight when he “heard the rey’s Mountie Problem” that the adamant about his support for show of support for the Surrey
ingness to engage in modern sound of heavy footsteps and city now had the largest RCMP RCMP officers in our interview. force in the aftermath of the
co-operative policing models. the jiggling of spurs coming up detachment in Canada. It re- “I have a lot of time for the province’s Supreme Court ruling
Maintaining public safety the front steps.” The Mounties mained so for the next 40 years. members of the RCMP … they could influence decisions in oth-
and the integrity of criminal were in the building, ready to Nonetheless, staffing issues go above and beyond,” he said. er Canadian communities look-
investigations were seemingly take over Surrey. And they did. and recruitment problems Lipinksi previously served ing for policing alternatives.
the motivating factors behind The plebiscite vote of Surrey were endemic. Policing costs as an assistant RCMP com- For Canadian municipalities
the rare joint news release, City Council was passed a few were rising. Crime was an issue missioner, overseeing one di- with RCMP contracts, the B.C.
in addition to informing the months earlier, in December in the November 1985 Surrey vision’s uniformed operations decision suggests it may be
public that the Surrey Police 1950. The Surrey Municipal municipal election. of 122 detachments and ap- time to hang up the spurs and
Service would take over as the Police, which had overseen the “What about going to munic- proximately 5,000 personnel. ditch the Red Serge. But com-
force of jurisdiction on Nov. 29. area for more than half a cen- ipal policing?” a reporter asked He left the RCMP in 2016 to munity-centric policing mod-
But there is a key question left tury, would be disbanded and the mayor during the news- become a deputy chief for the els must allow municipal and
unanswered: what does a modern handed over to the RCMP. cast. “You’re paying what? Delta Police Department, a ca- provincial agencies to develop
Surrey Police Service look like in While sitting in the office Ninety per cent (of RCMP po- reer path that has culminated alongside their federal coun-
the year 2024 and beyond? that night in 1951, Starek, then licing costs)?” in his current post as Surrey’s terparts with support, not fear.
Hearing ‘the spurs on the 24, was told to stay at his post Ross replied: “No, by 1990 chief constable since 2020. The next chapter for the Sur-
stairs’ and instruct the RCMP “how to we will be paying 90 per cent.” In our discussion, Lipinski rey Police Service involves a
As someone who research- police Surrey” in a rare exam- After defending the RCMP, talked about his 32 years as transfer of power by the RCMP,
es provincial policing affairs, ple of municipal leadership in Ross then stated: “But I think a constable with the Edmon- one that projects calm in times
I recently sat down for an the federal force. when the costs get up to 90 per ton Police Service, and said of conflict and unrest as the
hour-long, face-to-face chat In its archival notes about this cent and more, we may well be that building municipal police force undergoes a hiring streak.
with Surrey Police Chief Norm period entitled RCMP Take Over looking at the alternative (mu- agencies is his passion. Following the B.C. Supreme
Lipinski. We discussed the his- Surrey, the Veterans’ Association nicipal policing).” “I want to further policing,” Court’s decision, it will be inter-
tory of policing in Surrey and said: “It was quickly discovered Those costs and that alter- he said, adding: “Policing is not esting to see if other Canadian
his vision for a future-focused that none of these (RCMP) native, for reasons I have pre- something done to a communi- communities soon follow suit. ■
constabulary that could set an members had worked in a mu- viously explored, have arrived ty, it is something done with a
example for the rest of Canada. nicipal policing environment.” — and Lipinski sees a brighter community.” This article is republished
Handing me a copy of a letter A few decades later, this situa- future for Surrey, its citizens He said he aims to make his from The Conversation under a
to staff that outlines a brief his- tion only grew worse for Surrey. and its constables as a result. vision for a future-focused, Creative Commons license.
tory, Lipinski pointed out that, Surrey’s ‘Mountie problem’ The future of policing in community-centric Surrey Po-

Senators call for..

6 in our midst," she But if a final decision will be said it would adhere to the poll “The guidance from the court allows her to personally
added. made even in just one of Guo's body’s rules on Guo’s case. Comelec is if she allowed to file file her COC. But if she asks a
Comelec spokesper- cases, Laudiangco said a petition In a press briefing, BJMP and a court order has allowed representative to do it, it would
son John Rex Laudiangco ear- to cancel the COC or disqualifi- spokesperson Jail Supt. Jayrex her to file, we will follow,’’ be much better," he added.
lier admitted that they cannot cation can be filed against her. Bustinera said they are in co- Bustinera explained. Guo is presently detained at the
reject or pre-evaluate COCs be- BJMP: Guo’s COC filing up ordination with the Comelec to Bustinera said the BJMP is Pasig City Jail Female Dormitory
ing filed, even if it is Guo who to Comelec determine their course of action limited to providing security to with 43 other persons deprived of
has multiple pending cases but The Bureau of Jail Management should Guo opt to seek an elec- Guo and ensuring her safety. liberty (PDLs). (with Christopher
without final decisions yet. and Penology (BJMP), meanwhile, tive post in the May 2025 polls. “We will escort her if the Lloyd Caliwan/PNA) ■
www.canadianinquirer.net
 12 CANADA NEWS FRIDAY October 4, 2024

Doug Ford’s highway tunnel

will not improve transport or housing
By Markus Moos, University Second, car-oriented develop- ideas around environmental
of Waterloo ment inherently produces more protection and smart growth.
The Conversation urban sprawl, making it difficult It’s also an approach without
to accommodate walking, cy- sufficient investments in criti-
cling and public transit that are cal community infrastructure,
Anyone who has driven in known to have important envi- such as affordable housing.
Toronto during rush hour can ronmental and health benefits. Hallmarks of the original
tell you how busy the roads can When more highways are Fordist period were investments
get. In the face of traffic grid- built, there is usually a desire to in community centres, schools,
lock and rising commute times, separate residential subdivisions transit infrastructure as a so-
Ontario Premier Doug Ford re- from traffic, resulting in more cial service, and yes, affordable
cently announced his govern- dispersed amenities that are housing. Although the govern-
ment is exploring the idea of difficult to reach without a car. ments at the times focused on
building a roughly 50-kilometre That can be expensive. Given car-reliant urban development,
tunnel beneath the 401, North the rising cost of living, it is not there was still significant invest-
America’s busiest highway. unreasonable to expect that car ON-427 facing Northside - 16 lane Highway. ( A K/UNSPLASH)
ment in social infrastructure.
That announcement came ownership will become increas- That is not the case today.
days after the Ford government ingly costly for more people. suburban fringe. North America’s Building better Governments are pushing for
said it is considering banning This means that not only heavy car reliance is an artefact Public health, the environ- the kinds of policies used in the
new cycling lanes if they result could Ontario residents face of this development model. ment and growing pressures on past that are the very reason
in reductions in car lanes. more urban sprawl, but many Planning decisions have municipal finances are all im- why citizens are so reliant on
Confronted with escalating people will also find it difficult, long-term consequences. portant reasons to build commu- cars today — but without the
housing costs and reduced af- and time-intensive, to get to In part arising from the social nities that are more walkable, social infrastructure that was
fordability, the government where they need to go. activism of the 1960s, planning bikeable and transit-oriented. arguably a redeeming feature of
proposed reforms to provincial This is not an anti-car argu- began to place more focus on However, the Ontario gov- original Fordist urban planning.
planning legislation to speed up ment. There will still be many environmental issues. In the ernment’s recent announce- The Ontario government’s
construction on Greenbelt sites in cars in the future and some of ’70s and ’80s, this pertained ments do not clearly indicate approach is not consistent with
what many described as weaken- it will be from new growth, but to the protection of environ- how prioritizing cars would the current evidence on best
ing local control over the quality progressive planning policies mentally significant areas; the address health, environmental practice planning. Car use and
of development and its potential would help create alternatives. Niagara Escarpment plan was and municipal fiscal issues. low-density sprawl will contin-
environmental impacts. North America’s car-cen- one important achievement of Connecting communities ue and perhaps even accelerate
If the provincial government tred planning this movement. with better rail service, for ex- because new and proposed pol-
continues with this agenda, the Ford’s emphasis on cars is In the 1990s, it became clear, ample, and putting some re- icies make it attractive to do so.
weight of evidence in planning reminiscent of another time, however, that environmental strictions on automobile traffic The future would likely be
research points to long-term de- coincidentally often called the protection would eventually be would be an investment made more congested, more pollut-
creases in the quality of life for Fordist period by urban research- challenged, and fail, unless de- in preparation for a future ed, and we would see more
Ontario residents. Here’s why. ers — so named after the mass velopment itself was going to where gas prices are expected loss of agricultural and envi-
Issues with car-oriented production of Ford automobile use less land and become more to rise. Furthermore, there will ronmentally significant lands.
planning plants that became a symbol of co-ordinated. likely be mounting pressures to Ontario’s policies of more auto
First, new highways bring the economy and suburban ex- This was the height of the reduce greenhouse gas emis- dependence are heading in the
more cars and eventually re- pansion of the times. smart growth movement that sions as governments face the wrong direction, and would re-
sult in the same or even worse At its height between the emphasized the need for rising costs of natural disasters duce the quality of life of On-
gridlock. They also contribute 1950s and ’70s, original Ford- greenbelts to constrain subur- and a changing climate. tario residents in the future. ■
to air pollution and climate ist urban planning focused on ban sprawl, and concentrate The Ontario government’s
change. Therefore, to accom- the automobile, separating land development into higher den- approach to infrastructure de- This article is republished
modate new growth, govern- designated for workplaces, retail sity neighbourhoods and more velopment hearkens back in from The Conversation under a
ments need to consider alter- stores and homes, and develop- walkable growth centres con- time when urban planning did Creative Commons license.
native modes of transport. ing large scale subdivisions at the nected by public transit. not incorporate urban planning

House to prioritize.. DOJ launches awareness..

4 The celebration of ated Congress’ commitment to 6 Justice Secretary Earlier, the DOJ and the Philip- streamlined guideline in legal
World Teachers’ Day funding the newly enacted Ka- Jesus Crispin Remul- pine Association of Law Schools writing which includes form,
is pursuant to Repub- balikat sa Pagtuturo Law (Re- la, meanwhile, said (PALS) entered into a memoran- style and certain principles to
lic Act 10743 or An Act De- public Act No. 11997), which the legal lecture series plays dum of agreement to strengthen provide easier and better un-
claring the fifth day of October provides a PHP10,000 annual a vital role in empowering the access to legal services. derstanding between the DOJ
of every year as the National teaching allowance for public people the much-needed wis- In a separate statement, the and its clients.
Teachers’ Day, in subjection school teachers beginning in dom about law and justice. DOJ said it has launched a “Attuned to the present
also to the set celebration of the school year 2025-2026. He said they can utilize this manual of writing style which times, this manual will serve
the United Nations Education The law doubles the current knowledge “to protect them- aims to institutionalize legal as a blueprint on legal writing,
and Cultural Organizations amount of PHP5,000 given to selves and their loved ones writing and communications style and other formal corre-
(UNESCO). teachers. ■ from violence, discrimination in the department. spondence,” Remulla said. ■
Campos, meanwhile, reiter- and other forms of attack.” The document provides a
www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 13

WORLD NEWS
Kamala Harris’ and Donald Trump’s records on
abortion policy couldn’t be more different – here’s
what actions they both have taken while in office
By Rachel Rebouché, Temple in support of a right to abor- undermine its coverage for con-
University tion. Harris has also stressed traceptives as well as its neutral
The Conversation the damage done in 14 states, stance on insurance coverage
in particular, where abortion is for abortion. Trump supported
banned throughout pregnancy bills such as the never-passed
Abortion is a critical, if not or after six weeks of gestation. American Health Care Act to
the most important, issue for Trump’s abortion record limit abortion coverage in pri-
many voters – especially wom- During Trump’s tenure as vate health insurance plans.
en, according to polls – ahead president, he supported var- Trump also appointed sev-
of the U.S. presidential elec- ious changes – in the form of eral people with anti-abortion
tion in November. judicial appointments, federal positions to his administration,
Since Vice President Kamala funding and agency actions, including Charmaine Yoest, the
Harris became the Democratic some led by anti-abortion fed- former CEO for the anti-abortion
presidential nominee in August eral employees – in the service group Americans United for Life,
2024, she has been vocal about (KAMALA HARRIS/FACEBOOK)
of making it harder for people who served as a top communica-
her support for abortion rights. to gain access to abortion care. tions official at the Department
Specifically, she supports Con- eral, Harris co-sponsored the Health Protection Act, which Trump began his presidency of Health and Human Services.
gress passing a federal law that Reproductive FACT Act, which, would have enacted a federal in 2016 by promising to ap- The Trump administration
would protect abortion rights among other requirements, statutory right to abortion. It point Supreme Court justices advanced numerous other an-
in the wake of the Supreme mandated that crisis pregnancy also did not pass. who would overturn Roe v. ti-abortion policies. For instance,
Court in 2022 overturning the centers inform patients that they Finally, during Harris’ ten- Wade. He nominated three jus- the Department of Human and
landmark Roe v. Wade ruling, are not licensed medical facili- ure as vice president, the Biden tices – Brett Kavanaugh, Amy Health Services’ 2017 strategic
which recognized a constitu- ties and that abortion services administration has used its ex- Coney Barrett and Neil Gor- plan defined life as beginning
tional right to abortion. are available elsewhere. These ecutive power to ease barriers such – who joined the majori- at conception – a decision that
Republican presidential centers are nonprofit organiza- to abortion access, primarily ty opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson supported funding for crisis
nominee Donald Trump, mean- tions that counsel pregnant peo- through federal agency actions. Women’s Health Organization, pregnancy centers and absti-
while, has boasted about nom- ple against abortion, sometimes The Food and Drug Adminis- reversing Roe in June 2022. nence-only education programs.
inating three Supreme Court using deceptive tactics. tration, for example, removed The Senate confirmed 226 Finally, the Trump adminis-
justices who were among the Anti-abortion groups sued to a rule in 2021 that prohibited judges whom Trump nominat- tration adopted an anti-abor-
court majority that voted in block the law once it went into mailing medication abortion. ed to the lower levels of feder- tion approach when it came to
2022 to abandon a consti- effect. And, in 2018, the U.S. Su- The Department of Health and al courts. Trump’s nominations foreign policy. Trump reinstat-
tutional right to abortion. preme Court struck down the law Human Services issued guid- followed a campaign pledge in ed and expanded the Mexico
However, in September 2024, on First Amendment grounds. ance affirming that federal law 2016 that he “would appoint City Policy, also known as the
Trump said he would not sign In 2017, Harris investigat- requires emergency rooms to pro-life judges.” Some were on Global Gag Rule, which pro-
a federal abortion ban, revers- ed the tactics of undercover perform an abortion when it is record as being against abortion, hibits foreign nongovernmen-
ing course from his previous videographers at Planned Par- medically necessary to stabilize a and some believed that embryos tal organizations that receive
statements. He also did not enthood clinics who, through patient needing urgent care. should be treated like children. U.S. funding from performing
answer a question during the deception and fraud, sought The Biden-Harris adminis- From the start, Trump’s ad- abortions or referring patients
September presidential debate to entrap clinicians into mak- tration also supported federal ministration prioritized defund- for abortion care elsewhere.
about whether he would veto ing controversial, though legal, legislation that includes ac- ing Planned Parenthood clinics, Under the Mexico City Poli-
legislation that bans abortion. statements, and who possibly commodations for abortion. which offer abortion care and cy, Trump in 2017 removed
Harris and Trump have contravened state law on se- The Pregnant Workers Fairness receive federal funding under US$8.8 billion in U.S. foreign
starkly different track records cret recordings. Act, enacted in 2023, requires the federal Title X program for aid for overseas programs that
on abortion. As an academic, As a U.S. senator, Harris op- employers to provide time off other family planning services. provide or refer for abortions.
my scholarship focuses on re- posed anti-abortion bills that for a worker’s miscarriage, Trump signed a bill in 2017 to In 2017, Trump also suspend-
productive health law, health would have conferred person- stillbirth or abortion. allow states to strip funding ed U.S. funding to the United
care law and family law. In this hood rights on fetuses. None of Although the Biden-Harris from Planned Parenthood clin- Nations Population Fund, an
piece, and in anticipation of them ultimately passed. administration’s abortion policy ics and other organizations that agency focused on family plan-
the election, I briefly consider Conversely, Harris champi- is not necessarily based on just offer abortion, even though ning for low-income people
the broad strokes of each can- oned various bills that would the vice president, Harris, since abortion care was not support- around the world, among oth-
didate’s past positions on and have protected and advanced Roe’s reversal, has been at the ed by the Title X funding. er issues, which does “not pro-
actions regarding abortion. reproductive rights. In 2019, helm of the administration’s The Trump administration mote abortion” but “supports
Harris’ abortion record for example, Harris was a “Fight for Reproductive Free- unsuccessfully tried to replace
As California’s attorney gen- co-sponsor of the Women’s doms” tour, speaking nationally the Affordable Care Act and PAGE 19 Kamala Harris’ and

www.canadianinquirer.net
 14 WORLD NEWS FRIDAY October 4, 2024

As Mexico’s new president takes office,

a renewed battle to contain cartel violence begins
By Katia Adimora, Edge Hill the US against his will. tion in criminal violence.
University Amlo has laid the blame for However, these kind of pro-
The Conversation the recent cartel killings, at least grammes may be targeting the
in part, on the US. When asked wrong people. Research has
on September 19 whether the US found that most of the young
Claudia Sheinbaum has be- was jointly responsible for the up- men that are currently recruit-
come Mexico’s first female pres- tick in violence in Sinaloa, Amlo ed by criminal organisations in
ident, taking over from her pop- said: “Yes, of course … for having Mexico were not unemployed
ular predecessor Andrés Manuel carried out this operation.” beforehand, but instead work-
López Obrador (Amlo). Howev- Since Amlo took office in ing in precarious conditions.
er, she has inherited a country 2018, his policy towards or- In fact, data shows that 70.7%
rife with violence and faces an ganised crime has been based of the young men who are im-
uphill battle to rein it in. on the slogan: “Abrazos, no prisoned in Mexico for murder
Mexico’s 2024 election sea- balazos” (Hugs, not bullets). have worked in agricultural and
son was the country’s deadliest The answer to violence, for manual jobs with low wages and
on record. Dozens of candi- him, is not more violence. He no access to social security. It is
dates, as well as their relatives has instead placed the focus on these people, for whom the car-
and other party members, were economic development and the (CLAUDIA SHEINBAUM PARDO/FACEBOOK)
tels are an attractive alternative,
assassinated in the run-up to implementation of measures to that Sheinbaum must focus on.
polling day. And three further address poverty, social injustice state of Veracruz was found During her tenure as mayor of She also needs to coordinate
candidates were killed in the and the lack of job opportunities dead after being abducted Mexico City from 2018 to 2023, with the US, Colombia and
days following the vote after for working people in Mexico. from his home. Sheinbaum claimed to have governments across Central
winning their respective races. However, the data shows that According to the state prosecu- halved the number of murders America in their efforts to fight
Now, the state of Sinaloa there has been a record num- tor at the time, Luis Ángel Bravo, in the city by installing more crime. Research shows that
in northern Mexico is being ber of homicides during Amlo’s a former police officer confessed security cameras and giving the Colombia’s drug seizure policy
rocked by a brutal gang war. presidency. More than 171,000 to taking part in the murder of police more power to monitor has increased the profitabili-
More than 90 people have murders took place in Mexico be- Sánchez. Bravo told reporters areas with high crime rates. ty of the narcotics trade and,
been killed over the past cou- tween 2019 and 2023, which is that the suspect said he had act- But there are questions over the subsequently, has given rise to
ple of months, with local me- far higher than under either of the ed on orders from local mayor feasibility of rolling out the same more violence in the Mexico.
dia reporting that corpses have country’s two previous presidents. Omar Cruz. The mayor denied measures on a much larger scale. One study, for instance, found
been found with sombreros on Amlo has insisted in his daily the accusation but soon fled and And, even if they were, whether that the decline in cocaine sup-
their heads or with pizza slices press conferences that there is has been a fugitive ever since. they will provide the same level of ply in Colombia between 2006
pegged onto them with knives. no impunity for crimes in Mex- More of the same? success is anybody’s guess. and 2009 could have contrib-
The violence is believed to pit ico. However, the killing of 47 Sheinbaum, as Amlo’s So, what can Sheinbaum do uted to as much as 14% of the
gang members loyal to Joaquín journalists during Amlo’s pres- protégé, may continue the pac- to stem the violence? Building increase in violence in Mexico
“El Chapo” Guzmán Loera, the im- idency, some of whom were ifistic stance of his administra- on Amlo’s efforts to help young over the same period.
prisoned co-founder of the Sinaloa exposing the crimes perpetrat- tion towards organised crime. people – the societal group People throughout Mexico
cartel, against others aligned with ed by the cartels, have mostly She appealed to voters largely most exposed to cartel recruit- expect Sheinbaum to tackle
Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, the gone unpunished. by promising to cement his leg- ment – find stable employment the violence spreading across
cartel’s other founder. The reason for that is that acy, and has vowed to continue is one potential solution. the country. But to do so, she
Violence had been widely governmental and local offi- some of his policies. In 2019, the Mexican gov- must be prepared to step out
expected. Zambada was arrest- cials are often corrupted and However, after being elected ernment introduced an em- from her predecessors shadow,
ed by US federal agents in July compliant with the cartels – a president in June, she pledged: ployment programme called or else Mexico could soon be
near El Paso, Texas, together situation that Amlo’s admin- “I commit myself to you to Jóvenes construyendo el futuro on a brink of a disaster. ■
with El Chapo’s son, Joaquín istration has done little to lead Mexico along the path (Youth building the future) to
Guzmán López. Following his change. In 2015, a Mexican of peace, security, democracy, give unemployed and unedu- This article is republished
arrest, Zambada claimed that journalist called Moisés Sán- freedom, equality and justice.” cated young men opportunities from The Conversation under a
he had been abducted by the chez who reported on corrup- And Sheinbaum is certainly no to develop their skills in an at- Creative Commons license.
younger Guzmán and taken to tion and violence in the eastern stranger to tackling crime. tempt to reduce their participa-

All-out war must be avoided in Lebanon

at all costs: UN
WAM voiced extreme concern with and the sovereignty and territo- community to urgently support representatives on the ground
Philippine News Agency the escalation of the conflict in rial integrity of Lebanon must the USD426 million humani- will also continue their efforts
Lebanon and appealed for an be respected,'' said Guterres in tarian appeal launched in Bei- to de-escalate the situation,''
immediate ceasefire. a statement issued Oct. 1. rut Tuesday. the statement added. ■
NEW YORK – UN Secre- "An all-out war must be The Secretary-General ap- "The Secretary-General will
tary-General António Guterres avoided in Lebanon at all costs, pealed to the international continue his contacts, and his
www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 WORLD NEWS 15

Ukraine’s LGBTQ+ soldiers call for more rights – as

Russia forces minorities into active service
By Nick Mayhew, University Ukrainians associating homopho- tried to stop the event, with Gay Russians forced into year Russian rapper Vacío was
of Glasgow bia with Russian imperialism. some carrying banners claim- military conscripted after being found
The Conversation Putin’s anti-LGBTQ+ actions ing that “LGBT is the arm of the Before the war, gay men guilty of “propagating non-tra-
and speeches may have shored Kremlin”, reiterating claims that in Russia could be prevented ditional sexual relations” for
up support for the Ukrainian Moscow fabricated stories about from joining the army, and re- attending a private party in sex-
Russian authorities have cause among liberally minded LGBTQ+ Ukrainian military di- ceived diagnoses of “histrionic ually provocative attire.
been rounding up gay men western allies. But Ukraine’s visions to discredit the country’s personality disorder”. But re- LGBTQ+ soldiers are fighting
and coercing them to fight in treatment of its gay soldiers is not armed forces. cent reports suggest that some on both sides of the war. On the
Ukraine, according to some re- always as positive a picture of ac- While support for LGBTQ+ gay Russians are being specif- Ukrainian side, reports of system-
cent reports. ceptance as has been painted. rights is on the rise in Ukraine, ically targeted and sent to the ic homophobia have sometimes
The Russian leader has long “Being an LGBT soldier in there is a long way to go. One frontlines by force. been brushed aside to paint
vilified the gay community in Ukraine means not just fight- 2024 poll shows only minority The reports come from Ukraine as straightforwardly pro-
Russia and introduced a raft of ing Russian aggression, but support for same-sex partner- Chechnya, a republic in the gressive. On the Russian side, the
new anti-LGBTQ+ laws while Ukrainian homophobia as well,” ships, with 32% of respondents North Caucasus region of plight of gay soldiers forcibly sent
promoting supposedly “tradi- according to Maksim Potapovich, still having a generally nega- Russia, where authorities be- to their death has received little
tional” masculinity as part of a Ukrainian LGBTQ+ activist. tive view of LGBT people. gan a brutal purge of the lo- media attention.
his narrative of creating sup- Gay Ukrainian soldiers still Meanwhile, Russia is using cal LGBTQ+ population in Perhaps that is why western
port for the war. He regularly face systemic homophobic dis- Ukraine’s queer soldiers as a 2017. According to one Rus- support for LGBTQ+ Russians
uses conservative values and crimination and violence from propaganda tool for its war sian LGBTQ+ organisation, has almost disappeared de-
the idea of a “traditional” fami- within the Ukrainian military. machine. the Chechen authorities are spite pleas for help from queer
ly as part of his anti-west – and Same-sex partners lack legal After reports that LGBTQ+ now using social media to en- Russian activists. In the words
anti-Ukraine – rhetoric. rights in cases of injury and Ukrainians could make up as trap gay men and force them of one: “The Russian LGBT
In 2022, when Putin first an- death and, on the frontlines many as 7% of the country’s to choose between prison, a community needs global help
nounced his full-scale invasion gay soldiers can face assault, armed forces, some Russian me- US$16,500 (£12,300) bail, or today more than ever. Please
of Ukraine, he described it as verbal abuse and intimidation, dia outlets used this to slander joining the war in Ukraine. At don’t turn your backs on us.”
a defence against the west’s along with forced transfer to the Ukrainian military by insin- least one of these gay men has In over-simplified narratives
“destruction of our traditional other regiments. uating that its gay soldiers had already been confirmed dead. about a progressive Ukraine
values”. A year later, the Rus- In June 2024, queer Ukraini- raped Russian prisoners-of-war. Forcing sexual minorities into and a homophobic Russia, the
sian parliament outlawed what ans organised a Pride march in While these allegations lack the military is part of a broader suffering of LGBTQ+ people in
it calls the “global LGBT move- Kyiv to rally for better conditions verifiable evidence, hundreds use of active service as a form both countries can get lost. ■
ment” as “extremism”. for LGBTQ+ soldiers, including of Ukrainians have made rape of punishment. Obligatory
Meanwhile in Ukraine, sup- for legally recognised same-sex allegations against the Russian military service has been pro- This article is republished
port for LGBTQ+ rights has ris- partnerships. But in a counter army, and many of these have posed for men who fail to pay from The Conversation under a
en significantly, with some queer protest right-wing nationalists been from LGBTQ+ people. child support, and earlier this Creative Commons license.

Elderly population worldwide

to surpass youth by 2030
Anadolu lion by 2100. and it is projected that by 2050,
Philippine News Agency By 2030, the number of in- this age group will account for
dividuals aged 65 and older is one in six people worldwide.
expected to surpass that of the Asia, Europe host most of
ANKARA – By 2030, the youth population, with the el- world's oldest populations
global population aged 65 and derly projected to double the According to the UN's 2023
older is expected to outnumber number of children under five. World Social Report, Asia and
the youth, with the elderly pro- The UN defines the youth pop- Europe host most of the world's
jected to double the number of ulation as those aged 15 to 24. oldest populations. Southern Europe, which in- world's elderly population is
children under five. The global population aged Japan leads with 30 percent of cludes Greece, Italy, Malta, Por- expected to reside in develop-
In 1990, the UN declared 65 and older is projected to its population aged 65 and older, tugal, and Spain —where the ing countries.
Oct. 1 as the "International Day more than double, reaching followed by Italy at 23 percent. elderly population has reached Most developed nations have
of Older Persons" to address 1.6 billion by 2050. If this fore- Finland, Portugal, and Greece 21 percent— is considered "the long implemented policies to
the challenges of an aging pop- cast holds true, the elderly will each have an elderly population world's oldest region." address the societal needs of
ulation and improve the condi- comprise over 16 percent of rate of around 22 percent. Aging population increas- their aging populations. In
tions of the elderly. the world's population. Meanwhile, Hong Kong and ing in developing countries contrast, many developing
Recent UN forecasts project In 1950, individuals aged 65 South Korea are expected to Population aging is progress- countries lack the infrastruc-
the global population to reach and older represented one in 20 surpass Japan, with their el- ing more rapidly in developing ture to meet the needs of their
about 8.5 billion by 2030, 9.7 people globally. By 2021, this derly populations reaching up countries than in developed ones.
billion by 2050, and 10.4 bil- ratio had changed to one in 10, to 40 percent. By 2050, the majority of the PAGE 21 Elderly population

www.canadianinquirer.net
 16 WORLD NEWS FRIDAY October 4, 2024

Israeli invasion could push an already unstable

Lebanon over the edge into total state collapse
By Imad El-Anis, Nottingham of the Hezbollah leadership as dermined the ability of ordinary country to the point of collapse. ernment can do to help them.
Trent University well as knocking out a great deal Lebanese to provide for them- It would not be the first time Up to a million civilians in Leb-
The Conversation of its military infrastructure. This selves and their families. The this has happened. There are anon have been displaced and
next phase of the conflict will country has haemorrhaged cap- parallels with the turbulent ear- much infrastructure and proper-
pose more intense challenges for ital in recent years and very few ly 1970s and the outbreak of the ty has been destroyed across the
The Israeli invasion of Leba- all involved and presents great foreign investors have the stom- 1975-1990 Lebanese civil war. country. And that was before the
non has begun – and there are re- risks to the region and beyond. ach to risk their money there. The influx of approximately 1.5 ground invasion began.
ports of heavy fighting between But perhaps lost in the de- Per capita incomes have de- million Syrian refugees since But there’s little doubt that
units of the Israel Defense Forces bates about whether Israel can clined substantially and remain the onset of the civil war there one is on the way. Israel in-
and Hezbollah in south Lebanon, defeat Hezbollah (and Hamas very low at around US$3,300 in 2011, has placed unbearable tends to permanently shift the
accompanied by airstrikes and in Gaza), how Iran (Hezbollah (£2,460) – down from around pressures on the provision of balance of power by ensuring
shelling of Hezbollah positions. and Hamas’ main backer) will US$9,000 in 2018). goods and services in Lebanon. Hezbollah is no longer a viable
For the past year, many have respond and who will ultimate- Lebanon’s economy has gone The demand for healthcare, ed- military threat.
feared that the war between Is- ly win, is the possibility that into reverse since the crisis in ucation, utilities and housing There are clear parallels with
rael and Hamas will spill over Lebanon could fail as a state 2019, with gross domestic prod- has far exceeded supply. Israel’s 2006 invasion of Lebanon
into neighbouring countries and if this war escalates. And that uct declining from US$59 billion The international community (the 34 day war) and the much
drag the Middle East into a dev- serves no one’s interests. in 2018 to just US$22 billion to- has helped Lebanon host Syrian broader 1982 invasion. The 2006
astating conflict. Now Israel has Lebanon is a vulnerable day. Coupled with a 95% depre- refugees with a number of initia- conflict devastated Lebanon’s in-
launched what it is calling a “lim- country that has been plagued ciation of the Lebanese pound tives including the 2016 EU-Leb- frastructure, while the 1982 inva-
ited ground operation” which it by devastating economic and and inflation that has hit 200%, anon Compact a plan to and fi- sion lasted until 2000, leading to
claims is designed to clear Hez- political crises, corruption, hu- nearly half the population is nancial aid amounting to several immense destruction, hardship,
bollah out of south Lebanon. man rights violations and a now below the poverty line. billion dollars. Yet the financial insecurity and instability.
In mid-September, Isra- breakdown in trust between the There has been a breakdown and material support provided The current conflict could
el announced it was shifting government and society over in waste disposal and electricity has been insufficient. Lebanon destabilise Lebanon to such an
its defence policy towards its the past decade. Its economy is supplies (Lebanon’s state pow- has creaked and strained under extent that there is even poten-
northern border, where 70,000 fragile, having never recovered er company struggles to supply the pressures of having the high- tial for a second civil war. This
people had been displaced over from the global financial crisis even two hours of electricity est refugee-to-citizen ratio in the would serve no one’s interest.
the past year by rockets fired of 2008-2009. The COVID-19 per day). Reserves of foreign world. An unstable, devastated and fail-
by Hezbollah. Defence minister pandemic hammered the Leba- currencies are exceptionally A failed state? ing Lebanon will only have neg-
Yoav Gallant said its war aims nese economy when it was still low and Lebanon runs a trade If economic turmoil and ative ramifications for all in the
had shifted to include ensuring reeling from the collapse of its deficit that hovers around US$9 hardship were not bad enough, Middle East, including Israel.
these civilians could return to financial system in 2019 and billion annually. This has fur- the Lebanese political land- If the Hobbesian logic of the
their homes in safety. the default on its unbearably ther strained the ability of or- scape remains amongst the strong doing what they will, and
After a fortnight of missile high levels of debt in 2020. dinary Lebanese to access the most fractured and contentious the weak suffering what they
strikes into Lebanon, Israel Global inflationary and cost of goods and services they need to in the region. In many ways, must is allowed to continue, only
claims to have eliminated much living pressures have further un- survive (let alone thrive). Lebanon has not had a fully collapse and ruin will follow in
War in prospect functioning set of state institu- Lebanon, the Middle East and
Even short wars tend to have tions for much of the past five further afield. It is imperative
devastating economic effects years. Intense political rivalries that sense and reason prevail and
that last long after the fighting and divisions between political the war between Israel, Hamas
ends. If history tells us anything parties has meant that the gov- and Hezbollah de-escalates.
about the current conflict we ernment cannot fully function. This article has been updat-
can expect a prolonged and in- And now the conflict between ed to reflect events. ■
tense fight between Israel and Israel and Hezbollah means that
Hezbollah. This war could very millions of ordinary people face This article is republished
easily destroy the Lebanese serious threats to their lives and from The Conversation under a
economy, bringing the entire livelihoods with little the gov- Creative Commons license.

PBBM vows to..

4 health care accessible During the event, Marcos including scholarship grants by
to Filipinos, especially and the First Lady turned over the Commission on Higher Ed-
those who are from three Lab for All mobile labo- ucation and the provision of
indigenous communities, by ratories to the municipality of assorted vegetable seeds and
delivering laboratory and med- Sta. Catalina in Ilocos Sur, Ta- fruit tree seedlings by the De-
ical services. cloban City, and Pasig City. partment of Agriculture.
It facilitates the donation The Lab for All caravan has Other participating agencies
of mobile vans equipped with been conducted in 35 areas na- are the Development Bank of
top-of-the-line medical equip- tionwide since it was launched the Philippines, the departments
ment, such as X-ray machines, in May 2023. of the interior and local govern-
ultrasound, portable urine an- Aside from medical services, ment, health, social welfare, and
alyzers, glucose monitors, and the Lab for All caravan also of- trade, as well as the Food and
cholesterol monitors. fers other government services, Drug Administration. ■
www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 17

ENTERTAINMENT
Why the changing representation of dwarfism
in Disney’s live action Snow White
remake is so important
By Erin Pritchard, Liverpool difference in the nineties to ex- dramatic incidents to drive the a Rachel?”) or to take sides on up to dramatic, but ultimately
Hope University citedly pulling off the interstate show. It was an ensemble piece the issues of the day. What, for silly, plot gimmicks from which
The Conversation in the noughties? The answer is in which we gradually got to example, are the relationship it is impossible to recover). Ulti-
key to the show’s success – and know the characters and the rules of being “on a break”? mately, and hearteningly, the six
why it remains so popular today. friends became our friends. Friends was, of course, very characters all remained friends.
I have to be honest – I didn’t Back in 1994, the initial The show was built around well produced, cast and writ- Beneath the professional
actually watch the first episode premise of Friends seemed to everyday storylines – crushes, ten. As it became even more craft and production polish
of the classic TV series Friends lack promise. The plot revolved romances and misunderstand- successful, it survived the nor- of Friends, it is the concept of
when it originally aired in the round six not especially inter- ings or maybe something as mally perilous inclusion of ce- friendship, underscored with by
US on September 22 1994. esting characters, and none of gently amusing as Ross overdo- lebrity guest stars and – vitally the viewer’s sense of aspiration,
Nor did I bother when it first the cast was especially famous ing the teeth whitener. Viewers – it never “jumped the shark” which ultimately explains the
turned up on British television (at least to me). The show began to identify with individual (industry-speak for growing out series’ success then and now.
the following spring. was set mainly in two adja- characters (“are you a Monica or of its initial premise or building One of the functions of pop-
But the final instalment was cent apartments in Manhattan ular culture is to provide a
a different matter. I was on a and a coffee bar called Central better imaginary world than
road trip in the US at the time Perk to which the characters the one we actually inhabit.
and checked into a motel on returned almost every episode In some ways this is simply
the outskirts of Cincinnati, and in which (in the best sit- compensation for the reality
Ohio specially to catch the con- com tradition) the best seats of the everyday: we dream of
cluding episode (The Last One) were always available. Crucial- that which we do not have. It’s
on May 6 2004. Room service ly, not a lot actually happened. what the great Utopian sociol-
arrived in the nick of time. My The power of the ensemble ogist Ernst Bloch called “wish-
burger and beer only fuelled my So why did it work? The ful images in the mirror” – ex-
appetite for what was to come – first important thing is that cept that the mirror here is a
and the anticipation of guessing Friends was not so much a sit- television screen.
what the final line would be. uation comedy as a character The world of Monica, Rachel,
So why the big change? How comedy. That meant it did not
did my attitude evolve from in- need a remarkable premise or PAGE 28 Why the changing

All episodes of "Senior High" and "High Street"

available in US and Canada
ABS-CBN both top-billed by Andrea Bril- ous death of her twin sister United States and Canada can to stay connected to more au-
lantes, were a hit among view- Luna. The series amassed one also binge-watch full episodes diences around the world.
ers for their intriguing stories billion views on TikTok and of other hit shows like “Can’t Enjoy watching “Senior
Watch for free on ABS-CBN about socially-relevant issues over 38 million digital views Buy Me Love” and “Linlang,” as High” and “High Street” by sub-
Entertainment YouTube and mental health when they across YouTube, Facebook, and well as "High Street Fast Cuts" scribing to the ABS-CBN Enter-
ABS-CBN’s hit mystery-thrill- aired on primetime TV. These iWantTFC in only the first two and “Pamilya Sagrado Fast tainment YouTube channel, the
er series “Senior High” and its shows also launched the popu- weeks of its premiere. Cuts,” which are condensed number one YouTube channel
sequel “High Street” are mak- lar tandems of “RoxChie” (Xy- “High Street,” meanwhile, versions of week-long episodes in Southeast Asia in the media
ing their way to the United riel Manabat and Elijah Can- sees Sky and her friends entering that feature the main high- and entertainment category
States and Canada where full las) and “TimPoch” (Zaijian adulthood where their lives are lights of each series. with 49.7 million subscribers.
episodes are available for free Jaranilla and Miggy Jimenez). put at risk when they become The company continues to For updates, follow @abscb-
on the ABS-CBN Entertain- “Senior High” follows Sky’s the target of an unknown group make its programs available in npr on Facebook, X, Instagram,
ment YouTube channel. (Andrea) unsettling quest that is out to exact revenge. various countries through You- and TikTok, or visit www.abs-
The two shows, which are for justice after the mysteri- Additionally, viewers in the Tube as part of its commitment cbn.com/newsroom. ■
www.canadianinquirer.net
 18 ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY October 4, 2024

The seven greatest cover songs of all time –

according to music experts
By Glenn Fosbraey, Dominique Rijpma van Hulst Their cover of Helter Skelter mance of a lifetime, culminat- emotional love ballad into a
University of Winchester, (stage name Do). It’s fun, un- from The Beatles’ White Album ing in a soaring climax guaran- more angsty and complex work
Conor Caldwell, University apologetically simple, yet some- (1968) blew me away. Person- teed to leave goosebumps on with their own musical stamp.
of Limerick, Daniel Ash, how seems to encompass every ally, I think this is the best cov- any listener with a pulse. Conor Caldwell
University of Winchester, emotion going. An era-defining er of a Beatles song ever, per- Daniel Ash 6. Shipbuilding, by Suede
Eva Petersen, Liverpool track that needs to be played formed by a woman who wasn’t 5. Against All Odds, by The I always tell students to look
Institute for Performing Arts, loud and proud. afraid to take control of it. Postal Service (2004) at their hero’s heroes and find
Howard Monk, University of Glenn Fosbraey Eva Petersen A good cover version needs the covers they chose to do. It
Southampton, Justin Patch, 2. Me and the Devil Blues, 4. Wild is the Wind, by Da- to find ways to reinvent the tex- is often the case that we discov-
Vassar College, Stephen by Gil Scott-Heron (2014) vid Bowie ture and structure of the origi- er a classic song from a cover.
Ryan, University of Limerick A great cover is more than a David Bowie frequently sup- nal. Beyond The Postal Service’s The 1995 charity album
The Conversation different version of a song – it plemented his original materi- iconic 2003 album Give Up, the HELP featured 20 songs (many
re-articulates the track and in- al with thematically connected indie-tronica outfit have a tiny of them cover versions) by 20
jects it with new meaning. Some cover songs. There are covers on repertoire. For my money, their artists in support of children
We recently asked subscribers do this by radically changing Hunky Dory (1971), The Rise cover of Phil Collins’s Against displaced by the Bosnian War.
to our arts and culture newslet- the genre, others by making the and Fall of Ziggy Stardust (1972) All Odds (1984) was the only Suede’s cover of Shipbuilding
ter, Something Good, to name song so intensely personal that and Aladdin Sane (1973). These bright spot in the horrendous (written by Elvis Costello and
their favourite cover song. We it is difficult to imagine anyone moments are often the weakest Josh Hartnett movie, Wicker Clive Langer in 1982) was the
received a range of replies, from else singing it. But Gil Scott-Her- spots on Bowie’s records – with Park (2004). first version of the song I heard.
Beyoncé’s reimagining of the on’s cover of Robert Johnson’s one major exception. The familiar texture and Such is the power of the piece, I
Dolly Parton classic, Jolene, to Me and the Devil Blues (1938), Bowie’s 1976 album Station soundscape of Give Up is heard suspect it was not difficult to con-
Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged re- on Scott-Heron’s final album, To Station closes with his take in the distant and crackly vocal, vey the message. Written during
cording of The Man Who Sold accomplishes an even rarer feat. on Wild Is The Wind, reworking reverse delays and keyboard of the Falklands war, it concerned
the World by David Bowie. It layers the pain and anguish Johnny Mathis’s two-minute the opening verse and chorus. the resurgence of the shipyards
Here’s how seven of our academ- of a modern black life lived in the original from 1957 into a soar- This gives way to a middle sec- caused by the necessity to replace
ic experts responded when we heavy bootprint of the fight for ing and theatrical six-minute tion which is cleaner and more ships lost in the conflict.
asked them the same question. civil rights, de-industrialisation showstopper. Bowie’s band du- purposeful than the first, with This led me to discover the
1. Heaven, by DJ Sammy and the “war on drugs”, over the tifully rises to the occasion, dec- a brighter tempo. A final outro definitive 1982 version sung
(2001) legend of original singer Robert orating the track with elegant section repeats the lyrical hook by Robert Wyatt and featur-
The late 1990s and early Johnson’s daring and tragic sto- lead guitar work and one of – “take a look at me now” – ing Costello, which has superb
2000s saw a glut of Euro-dance ry in the Jim Crow south. the most exquisite drum perfor- with gentle guitar bringing the brushed drums and double
songs troubling the higher Scott-Heron’s cover is an mances ever committed to tape. song to a close. bass. A masterpiece.
reaches of the UK charts, as art- opaque homage that ruminates Never one to underplay, With this cover, The Postal Howard Monk
ists like Alice Deejay, Fragma on living in the echoes of an Bowie gives the vocal perfor- Service manage to remake an 7. Such Great Heights, by
and Sash (all aliases for male American music legend’s ruins. Iron and Wine
DJs fronted by female guest It’s a reminder of the continu- In this cover, Sam Beam of
vocalists) married heavy trance ing horrors of racism, and the Iron and Wine strips what could
beats with catchy melodies. But enduring artistry of resistance be potentially considered the
above all others stood 2001’s and resilience. calling card of The Postal Ser-
Heaven, by DJ Sammy. A shin- Justin Patch vice’s small but perfectly formed
ing example of the energetic 3. Helter Skelter, by Sioux- oeuvre to its bare bones. Featur-
but straightforward approach to sie and the Banshees (1978) ing nothing more than a hushed
music that characterised the era, As a young artist from Liver- voice, gently plucked acoustic
it had a generation of club-goers pool who was newly signed to guitar and subtle flourish of
running for the dancefloor. Deltasonic Records in the early mandolin, the yearning roman-
Heaven saw Spanish produc- 2000s, I was keen to find inspi- ticism of the lyrics is endearing-
er Sammy turn a mawkish 1983 ration from artists other than our ly exposed.
Bryan Adams track into the ul- beloved Beatles. Little did I ex- Curiously, The Postal Service
timate dance track for all sea- pect that much of this inspiration chose to include this wonder-
sons, complete with a relentless would circle back to Paul, John, fully considered cover version
beat, hypnotic synth riff, and George and Ringo when I discov- as a b-side to their own single
earworm-of-all-earworm cho- ered Siouxsie and the Banshees’
ruses delivered by Dutch singer album The Scream (1978). PAGE 27 The seven greatest

www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 19

LIFESTYLE
Is it bad to listen to music all the time?
Here’s how tunes can help or harm
By Jillian Hubertz, Purdue signment than music with lyrics Close to 1 in 5 Americans ness. For example, you could listen you if your tunes are creeping
University or unfamiliar music. Instrumen- ages 12 to 19 – about 17% – to a 75 dBA sound for 40 hours toward too loud. When wearing
The Conversation tal music also seems to interfere demonstrate signs of noise-in- per week. But listen to something headphones or earbuds, keep it
less with reading comprehen- duced hearing changes in one at 89 dBA and that time allowance at or below 60% of the volume al-
sion and assignments requiring or both ears, which could even- is drastically reduced, to about an lowed by your device. One rule of
I like to listen to music all verbal and visual memory than tually lead to hearing loss. hour and a half. thumb: If someone else can hear
the time. Are there any nega- does music with lyrics. Volume, time, distance Signs you’ve been exposed the sound emanating from your
tive aspects to this? – Hussein, 2. One study showed soft, How dangerous a sound is to to a dangerously loud sound headphones or earbuds when
age 17, Iraq fast music had a positive im- your hearing depends on three include muffled hearing, ring- they are an arm’s length away
Music surrounds us. It can pact on learning, but loud and things: the volume of the sound, ing in the ears and difficulty from you, the volume is too loud.
be a companion throughout fast, loud and slow, and soft the length of time you listen, and having a conversation from 3 Use high-quality, noise-can-
the day – listening on the way and slow hindered learning. how close you are to the sound. feet (1 meter) away. celing headphones or earbuds
to school or work, checking out 3. Upbeat music with a higher Sounds are measured in Although your hearing gener- to hear the audio at a safer,
a favorite artist with friends, tempo may help when you’re do- decibels, or dB, and the dBA ally returns to normal after such lower level. Some headphones
hearing it live at concerts and ing something requiring move- scale reflects how the human an experience, there is a cost. also have volume limitations.
sporting events, enjoying or en- ment or motivation, such as exer- ear hears sound. This temporary shift in hearing Use hearing protection, such
during it in stores and restau- cising or cleaning your room. Typically, sounds at or below could lead to permanent harm as disposable earplugs or ear-
rants, and then listening again 4. The more difficult your 70 decibels are safe for listen- to inner-ear structures and ul- muffs, when you’re around
in the evening to unwind. task is – for instance, memo- ing. Conversations generally timately damage your hearing. loud sounds, such as concerts,
As meaningful and uplifting rizing material, problem-solv- register at about 60 dBA, city How to stay safe fireworks or a lawn mower.
as music can be, it might also ing or learning something new traffic at about 80 dBA. Technology not available even You can also simply decrease
help you while studying, work- – the more likely the music is Sounds that may be harm- a few years ago can now alert listening time. Taking breaks
ing on school projects and do- distracting and people often ful include lawn mowers, at you of a risky listening environ- lets you avoid overexposure.
ing homework. As a clinical as- need to turn it off. roughly 95 dBA, rock concerts, ment. A sound-level meter app Follow these tips and you
sistant professor of audiology, I But before listening to your at around 120 dBA, and fire- measures the sound around you should be able to enjoy your fa-
can tell you the research shows favorite sounds while studying, works, at about 140 dBA. to determine whether it’s too vorite music, games and conver-
that music can increase your don’t miss an important detail: The World Health Organization loud. So can some smartwatches. sations for decades to come. Pay
focus and even motivate you. the volume. suggests a sound allowance for If listening through speakers, attention to what music helps
This connection depends The damage begins early weekly exposure, based on loud- the sound-level app can warn your concentration rather than
somewhat on the individual. Whether listening through distracts you, and your school-
Some people need silence while speakers, headphones or ear- work might benefit, too. ■
doing homework. Human brains buds, too high a volume can
are limited in their ability to damage your hearing. It’s known Hello, curious kids! Do you
multitask, and some people are as noise-induced hearing loss, have a question you’d like an
better at doing two things at and it happens more often than expert to answer? Ask an adult
once compared with others. The you might think – those high-vol- to send your question to Curi-
style of music, the activity you’re ume sounds can destroy tiny, del- ousKidsUS@theconversation.
doing and the effort it takes to icate hair-like structures in the com. Please tell us your name,
complete the work also matter. inner ear that help you hear. age and the city where you live.
Some types of music work Inner-ear damage can occur And since curiosity has no age
better than others from a single exposure to an limit – adults, let us know what
Numerous studies have dis- extremely loud sound or from you’re wondering, too. We won’t
covered how music can affect repeated exposure to loud be able to answer every ques-
study and work habits: sounds over months or years. tion, but we will do our best.
1. Listening to instrumental or While some parts of the ear This article is republished
familiar music in the background can repair themselves, the in- from The Conversation under a
competes less with a study as- ner ear cannot fix itself. Creative Commons license.

Kamala Harris’ and..

13 the right of all women 2021. fining or changing their stanc- their administration will ap-
to get post-abortion In the coming weeks, both es on aspects of abortion law. proach abortion, voters might This article is republished
care.” Biden restored candidates will have a lot to In assessing what both candi- consider what we know about from The Conversation under a
funding to the U.N. agency in say about abortion, possibly re- dates have to say about how their past actions. ■ Creative Commons license.
www.canadianinquirer.net
 20 LIFESTYLE FRIDAY October 4, 2024

Being ‘mindful’ about your bank account

can bring more than peace of mind –
a researcher explains the payoff
By Emily N. Garbinsky, means – and does it even matter? practicing general mindfulness
Cornell University The short answer is yes. makes people less likely to fall
The Conversation What financial mindfulness is prey to the sunk cost bias: the
Together, our team has 32 tendency to continue working on
years of experience investigat- something just because you’ve
Mindfulness, the meditation ing the psychology of consum- already invested large amounts
practice that brings one’s at- er finance. Georgetown pro- of money, effort or time.
tention to present experiences, fessor Simon Blanchard and I, As an example, people are
is gaining traction in the busi- along with Cornell Ph.D. stu- told that an investment strat-
ness world. dent Lena Kim, conducted the egy they developed over sev-
Researchers have long first large-scale academic study eral months is not working,
known that being mindful caus- on financial mindfulness. and there is no way to recover
es physical and mental benefits We began by conducting their lost time or money. Those
such as better brain health, de- a dozen hourlong interviews who show the bias decide to
cision-making and stress resil- to ask: “What does financial continue with their current in-
ience. Major companies such as mindfulness mean to you?” vestment strategy even though
Google, Aetna and Intel offer The people we interviewed they know it’s not working. we did not include the Aura cial awareness. You can’t have
mindfulness training programs were from various life stages, Importantly, when we mea- data in our published paper, financial mindfulness without
as a way to boost employee from their late teens to ear- sured how generally mindful when we matched users’ scale knowing what’s going on with
well-being and productivity. ly 60s, and they could speak someone is, as well as how scores to their portfolios, we your own money.
Building on this trend, fi- to different kinds of financial mindful they are about finances found that financially mindful 2. Develop financial accep-
nancial products and services stressors: everything from how in particular, we found that their users were willing to take on tance: You also need to accept
are starting to use the term “fi- to best manage college debt, to level of financial mindfulness is more risk in their portfolios. your financial situation, even
nancial mindfulness” as a way how to navigate the financial a better predictor of the deci- With Debbie, an app that if your finances are not where
to appeal to consumers. For and emotional stress of a di- sion to change their investment helps customers track prog- you want them to be. Take
instance, Fidelity talks about vorce, to how to stay on track strategy. Put differently, people ress toward repaying debt and advantage of services such as
the importance of mindful- with retirement saving. with a good awareness of their provides rewards when they money coaches or online com-
ness in saving and investing, Our interviews revealed two finances, and who are willing to achieve goals, we found that munities for money matters.
while PNC and Vanguard focus main abilities that consumers accept their financial situation, those who are more financial- Talking about money helps.
on regulating your emotions associate with being financially are better able to resist the sunk ly mindful have higher credit 3. Learn about your money
during financial planning. mindful: high levels of finan- cost bias, since they are better scores. Every 1-point increase personality – your core beliefs
Retailers offer financial cial awareness, or knowing able to manage emotions sur- in financial mindfulness was about whether money can solve
mindfulness journals that what you have and what you rounding their money. associated with a 14.8-point problems and what financial
claim to help people distin- owe; and high levels of finan- In addition to collecting our increase in credit score. goals are most important to
guish needs from wants and cial acceptance. own data, we also partnered Increasing financial mind- you. This will help you to devel-
set financial goals. Books such To be clear, this doesn’t mean with two fintech apps that al- fulness op better coping mechanisms.
as “Mindful Money” and “The being complacent. Instead, it’s lowed us to administer our fi- In the current economic cli- Incorporating mindfulness
Mindful Millionaire” explore about being able to face unpleas- nancial mindfulness scale to mate, financial stress is a major into financial practices and
how to achieve peace and pros- ant financial decisions without their customers. concern for many Americans, habits can help people navi-
perity through money man- letting your emotions take over. With Aura Finance, a leading to anxiety, depression and gate their financial journeys.
agement. Fintech has hopped We used these two compo- wealth-management app that other mental health issues. Here Based on our research, we be-
on the financial mindfulness nents to create an eight-item targets young, high-earning are some practical steps to bring lieve that financial service pro-
bandwagon, with apps such scale to measure how finan- women, we examined each mindfulness to your finances: viders should continue to offer
as Financial Mindfulness, Allo: cially mindful someone is. user’s percentage allocation of 1. Build financial aware- not only awareness-related ser-
Mindful Money Tracker and Why financial mindfulness stocks versus bonds, a common ness: Track and monitor your vices but also acceptance tools
Aura, a mindful money man- matters measure of investment risk tol- spending habits using avail- – helping their customers lead
agement platform designed to We then wanted to examine erance. There is no optimal able software, tools and apps, financially happier lives. ■
“help you put your money to whether financial mindfulness split level between stocks and such as those offered through
work and anxiety to rest.” actually results in better finan- bonds, but younger people are your bank. This will help you This article is republished
But not everyone agrees on cial decisions. typically advised to take on understand your relationship from The Conversation under a
what “financial mindfulness” Past research has shown that more financial risk. Although with money and build finan- Creative Commons license

Bulking up the..
10 the federal public ser- rect other departments and clarity, accountability and trac- public service while freeing up challenges of the late 2020s. ■
vice more effective and agencies, including the power tion to a sometimes-unwieldy the clerk of the Privy Council
productive. to pause or terminate procure- management system overseeing Office to focus on strategy, prior- This article first appeared on
• Endow the Management ments and technology projects the public service. Most impor- ities and policy coherence, and Policy Options and is repub-
and Implementation Board that have gone off the rails. tantly, it would raise the capa- guide appointments of senior lished here under a Creative
with greater authority to di- These changes would add bilities and effectiveness of the leadership fit for the emerging Commons license.
www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 LIFESTYLE 21

Want to solve a complex problem?

Applied math can help
By Alan Veliz-Cuba, bers in any row or column. Every single chemical in each trations. This is where all the complicated. Once I reach the
University of Dayton The puzzle begins with some cell? There is much that is un- math that has been and is still second step where I want the
The Conversation prefilled boxes, and the goal is known about cancer, so how being invented comes into play. solution of the math problem,
to figure out which numbers go can we model such unknown Areas of pure math such as al- very often, if not most of the
in the rest of the boxes. features? Is it even possible? gebra, analysis, combinatorics time, it turns out that no one
You can probably think of a Imagine that a variable, say Applied mathematicians and many others can be used knows how to solve the math
time when you’ve used math x, represents the number that have to find a balance between – in some cases combined – to problem in the model. In some
to solve an everyday problem, goes in one of those empty box- models that are realistic enough solve the complex math prob- cases, the math to study the
such as calculating a tip at a es. We can guarantee that x is to be useful and simple enough lems arising from applications problem doesn’t even exist.
restaurant or determining the between 1 and 9 by saying that to be implemented. Building of math to the real world. For example, it is difficult to
square footage of a room. But x solves the equation (x-1)(x- these models may take several The third step of the modeling analyze models of cancer be-
what role does math play in 2) … (x-9)=0. This equation is years, but in collaboration with process consists of translating cause the interactions between
solving complex problems such true only when one of the fac- experimental scientists, the act the mathematical solution into genes, proteins and chemicals
as curing a disease? tors on the left side is zero. Each of trying to find a model often the solution to the applied prob- are not as straightforward as
In my job as an applied math- of the factors on the left side is provides novel insight into the lem. In the case of Sudoku, the the relationships between boxes
ematician, I use mathematical zero only when x is a number real-world problem. solution to the equations tells in a game of Sudoku. The main
tools to study and solve com- between 1 and 9; for example, Mathematical models help us which number should go in difficulty is that these interac-
plex problems in biology. I have (x-1)=0 when x=1. This equa- find real solutions each box to solve the puzzle. In tions are “nonlinear,” meaning
worked on problems involving tion encodes a fact about our After writing a mathemati- the case of aspirin, the solution that the effect of two inputs is
gene and neural networks such game of Sudoku, and we can cal problem to represent a sit- would be a set of curves that tell not simply the sum of the indi-
as interactions between cells encode the other features of the uation, the second step in the us the aspirin concentration in vidual effects. To address this,
and decision-making. To do game similarly. The resulting modeling process is to solve the digestive system and blood- I have been working on novel
this, I create descriptions of a model of Sudoku will be a set the problem. stream. This is how applied ways to study nonlinear sys-
real-world situation in math- of equations with 81 variables, For Sudoku, we need to mathematics works. tems, such as Boolean network
ematical language. The act one for each box in the puzzle. solve a collection of equations When creating a model theory and polynomial algebra.
of turning a situation into a Another situation we might with 81 variables. For the aspi- isn’t enough With this and traditional ap-
mathematical representation is model is the concentration of rin example, we need to solve Or is it? While this three-step proaches, my colleagues and I
called modeling. a drug, say aspirin, in a per- an equation that describes process is the ideal process of have studied questions in areas
Translating real situations son’s bloodstream. In this case, the rate of change of concen- applied math, reality is more such as decision-making, gene
into mathematical terms we would be interested in how networks, cellular differentia-
If you ever solved an arithme- the concentration changes as tion and limb regeneration.
tic problem about the speed of we ingest aspirin and the body When approaching unsolved
trains or cost of groceries, that’s metabolizes it. Just like with applied math problems, the
an example of mathematical Sudoku, one can create a set distinction between applied
modeling. But for more difficult of equations that describe how and pure mathematics often
questions, even just writing the the concentration of aspirin vanishes. Areas that were con-
real-world scenario as a math evolves over time and how ad- sidered at one time too ab-
problem can be complicated. ditional ingestion affects the stract have been exactly what
This process requires a lot of dynamics of this medication. is needed for modern prob-
creativity and understanding of In contrast to Sudoku, howev- lems. This highlights the im-
the problem at hand and is of- er, the variables that represent portance of math for all of us;
ten the result of applied math- concentrations are not static current areas of pure mathe-
ematicians working with scien- but rather change over time. matics can become the applied
tists in other disciplines. But the act of modeling is mathematics of tomorrow and
As an example, we could rep- not always so straightforward. be the tools needed for com-
resent a game of Sudoku as a How would we model diseases plex, real-world problems. ■
mathematical model. In Sudo- such as cancer? Is it enough to
ku, the player fills empty boxes model the size and shape of a This article is republished
in a puzzle with numbers be- tumor, or do we need to model from The Conversation under a
tween 1 and 9 subject to some every single blood vessel inside Creative Commons license
rules, such as no repeated num- the tumor? Every single cell?

Elderly population..
15 rapidly aging citizens. Each year, conferences and "Dignified Aging: The Impor- The aging population has sig- beliefs, needs, and privacy, and
As a result, there events are held around a spe- tance of Strengthening Care nificantly increased the demand promoting such approaches.
are calls for develop- cific theme to commemorate and Support Systems for Older for healthcare, and social ser- The UN is calling for the
ing nations to take action to Oct. 1, "International Day of Individuals Worldwide." vices, particularly for the elderly development of strengthened
address the needs of their ag- Older Persons." Aging populations require so- with conditions like dementia. policies for care and support
ing populations. This year, marking the 34th cieties to adapt and create the This includes protecting the systems for older individuals,
Calls for review of policies observance by the UN, the necessary social and physical rights of elderly individuals in as well as a review of existing
addressing aging population theme for 2024 has been set as environments for this age group. care, respecting their dignity, legislation on this issue. ■
www.canadianinquirer.net
 22 FRIDAY October 4, 2024

SPORTS
Japanese envoy honors Carlos Yulo
for Paris 2024 win
By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora pion, through a scholarship contributions to enhancing mu- give time — you dedicate your of the Philippines president
Philippine News Agency that helped him on his winning tual understanding and friend- heart— you will achieve great- Cynthia Carrion, Philippine
path,” he said. ship between Japan and the er things and learn more about Olympic Committee President
“As he remains a superb Philippines" through sports. yourself),” he said. Bambol Tolentino, and other
MANILA – The Japanese Em- testament to our countries’ In an interview, Yulo said he Joining Yulo at the reception dignitaries. ■
bassy in Manila honored and people-to-people and cultur- will continue to embody the was Gymnastics Association
conferred the Ambassador’s al exchanges, Japan is deeply lessons and discipline impart-
Award to Filipino Olympic dou- honored to have helped shape ed by Kugimiya in Japan.
ble-gold winner Carlos Yulo, him into the best version of “Natuto ako na try nang try
saying his Paris 2024 win has himself and into one of the fin- lang talaga at huwag matakot at
made both Japan and the Phil- est athletes the sport has seen." sumuko sa kung ano ang gusto
ippines ”prouder and closer”. Yulo won two gold medals for mong abutin sa buhay (I learned
In a reception he hosted in his stunning performance at the how to try and try and not to
Makati on Tuesday night, Japa- Floor Exercise and Vault Events fear when I want to achieve
nese Ambassador Endo Kazuya in the 2024 Paris Olympics. something in life),” he said.
cited how Yulo’s training in He, who trained under Jap- “(Natutunan ko) na kapag
Japan made a significant con- anese coach Munehiro Kugimi- sinipagan mo, tinyaga mo, at
tribution in honing his skills in ya, received a gymnastics binigyan mo ng oras —binigay
gymnastics. scholarship by the Japanese mo puso at dedication mo— AMBASSADOR’S AWARD. Filipino Olympic double-gold winner Carlos Yulo (left) re-
“It excites me to know that Olympic Committee in Tokyo. may mas maabot ka pang mata- ceives the Ambassador's Award from Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo
it was in Japan where Carlos In 2019, he was conferred his as at mas makikilala mo ang Kazuya at his residence in Makati on Tuesday night (Oct. 1, 2024). Kazuya cited how
further honed his mind and first Japan Ambassador’s Com- sarili mo sa journey (I learned Yulo’s training in Japan made a significant contribution in honing his skills in gymnastics.

body into becoming a cham- mendation for his “outstanding that when you persevere, you (JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORAPNA

Baguio OKs P8-M to PH wins mixed doubles gold

retain city’s Batang medal at World Pickleball
Pinoy athletes title Championship
By Liza Agoot cover the airfare, transportation, By Jean Malanum The Filipino pair defeated Aus- see our flag on the world stage,
Philippine News Agency food, uniforms, insurance, and Philippine News Agency tralians Ty Yturralde and Sarah especially in pickleball which is
other expenses of the athletes and Burr, 15-13, in the quarterfinals still growing in the Philippines,"
coaches who will join the event,” and conquered Indonesians Novi added Zoleta, a member of the
BAGUIO CITY – The city Jordan Habbiling, information of- MANILA – Lucena City pride Emiliabir and Gusti Hariwibawa, soft tennis national team which
government has approved the ficer of the city council, told the Bien Zoleta continues to bring 15-2, in the Final Four. competed at the World Soft Ten-
release of PHP8.8 million to Philippine News Agency Monday. honor to the country, this time in Like Zoleta, the 36-year-old nis Championship in Anseong,
support the over 600 athletes This year’s delegation to the pickleball, a sport where players Ombrezo from Tukuran, Zambo- South Korea three weeks ago.
and coaches who will attempt Dec. 15-21 event is higher than use light paddles and low-bounc- anga Del Sur is a seasoned tennis The Filipinos know the tough
to keep the city's top rank in the the 561 that represented Bagu- ing plastic balls on a smaller court. player. He won the singles gold challenge ahead of them in the
2024 Batang Pinoy in Puerto io City during the 2023 Batang Zoleta teamed up with Johner medal at the 2006 Palarong Pam- prestigious WPC Series which
Princesa, Palawan in December. Pinoy in Metro Manila. Ombrezo to capture the gold bansa in Naga Camarines Sur. has attracted 552 athletes from
Based on the expenditure sched- Baguio topped last year’s medal in the mixed doubles 35+ "I'm very happy to have fi- 28 countries.
ule submitted by the city’s sports de- event after garnering 82 gold, Open category at the World Pick- nally made it to the podium," "We did not expect to win
velopment office to the city council, 52 silver, and 59 bronze medals. leball Championship (WPC) Se- said Zoleta in an online inter- because there are many pro
each of the delegate to the national Aside from assistance during ries in Bali, Indonesia last Sunday. view on Monday. players in our category and we
sports event for 15 years old and be- the competition, medalists are also They beat Thailand's Pi- "It felt so good that I achieved are the first in the Philippine
low is allotted PHP14,285. provided monetary incentives un- yapon Srirapan and Tarie my goal to win a medal again in
“The amount will be used to der the city’s sports code. ■ Caouette, 21-18, in the final. a world-level competition and PAGE 27 PH wins mixed

www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 23

BUSINESS
IMF expects PH economy to grow by over 6% in 2025
By Anna Leah Gonzales forecast for 2024 and 2025. ditions, or faster than anticipat- She said priority areas include helped reduce food prices, and
Philippine News Agency "The downward revision ed private investment linked to upgrading infrastructure, making should further reduce headline
from our July forecast reflects public-private-partnerships and significant investments in health- inflation by the year end," Sax-
our view that private consump- larger foreign direct investment care and education, addressing egaard said.
MANILA – The Philippine tion is going to grow slight- inflows, on the other hand, land fragmentation and low pro- "For this year, our expecta-
economy successfully navi- ly with less momentum. So I could stimulate higher growth. ductivity in agricultural sector, tion is that for inflation to av-
gated multiple external head- would like to highlight that the The IMF believes that the and enhancing governance. erage 3.3 percent, and for next
winds in recent years and is downgrade is very small, 0.2, Philippine economy holds Inflation, meanwhile, is pro- year, 3 percent. That would be
expected to grow by over 6 and reflects the fact that the significant potential with its jected to settle within the gov- supported by lower food and
percent next year, an Interna- first half (of the year) private abundant natural resources, ernment's target for both 2024 core inflation remaining well
tional Monetary Fund (IMF) consumption growth was low- untapped blue economy, and a and 2025. within the target."
official said. er than what we had anticipat- sizable demographic dividend. "We believe that the deci- Saxegaard said that with in-
In a briefing at the Bangko ed. And this might be in part Saxegaard, however, said sive monetary tightening and flation returning toward target,
Sentral ng Pilipinas office in driven by the high food prices," that unlocking the medi- other measures have helped a continued gradual reduction
Manila on Wednesday, IMF Mis- Saxegaard said. um-term growth potential will mitigate inflationary pressures of the policy rate is appropriate.
sion Chief Eli Arbatli Saxegaard Despite the revision, Saxe- depend on structural reforms in the Philippines, recent tar- IMF Resident Representa-
said the Philippines remained gaard said the Philippines con- and strengthened social pro- iff cuts on imported rice and tive to the Philippines Ragnar
among the best performing tinues to be one of the highest tection programs. other non-monetary measures Gudmundsson, for his part,
economies in the region. growing economies in the region. said there are both upside and
An IMF team led by Saxe- "I would also like to highlight downside risks to inflation.
gaard held meetings in Manila that the growth forecast for the "Inflation could perform
from Sept. 18 to Oct. 2 to con- Philippines remains one of the even better than anticipated.
duct discussions on the Phil- highest in the region. It's 6.1 If, for instance, food prices
ippine economy for the 2024 percent growth for 2025, is a continue coming down, espe-
Article IV Consultation. very respectable growth rate… cially rice prices, there would
Saxegaard said the Philip- So it's a very small adjustment be a positive development that
pine economy is projected to reflecting the outturns the first could support monetary policy
grow by 5.8 percent this year half," she said. easing," he said.
and will further accelerate to Downside risks to the coun- "However, we're also aware
6.1 percent in 2025. try's growth outlook include a that there are upside risks to
"This pick-up in growth will slowdown in major economies inflation. You know, the com-
be supported by more accommo- that could disrupt trade and fi- modity prices like oil prices
dative financial conditions and nancial flows; commodity price can fluctuate very rapidly, very
higher investment," she said. volatility and supply shocks; and widely. These are dependent
The latest projection, how- an escalation of geopolitical ten- on developments abroad. And
ever, was lower than the 6 per- sions or regional conflicts. this is why the data dependent
cent and 6.2 percent previous Easing of global financial con- approach is very important." ■

Chinese investments in BOI surge despite sea row

By Kris Crismundo 2024, which is 237 percent high- ippines as an investment hub. of sustained economic growth. including renewable energy
Philippine News Agency er than the same period last year. The delegation participated in Events like this showcase the (RE) equipment manufactur-
The approval in the first nine the China International Fair for Philippines’ proposition as the ing, electric vehicle manufac-
months of the year is also big- Investment and Trade (CIFIT) Regional hub for smart and turing, and agribusiness.
MANILA – The Board of In- ger than the full-year project in Xiamen, securing discussions sustainable manufacturing and The delegation also had two
vestments (BOI) reported a registration from Chinese in- with potential Chinese investors. services industries, that will roundtable meetings in Xiamen
surge in project registration vestors at PHP619 million. “Throughout the six days ultimately generate green and and Beijing, wherein five com-
from Chinese investors this The BOI said this made Chi- of the Investment Promotion sustainable jobs for the Filipi- panies discussed their invest-
year despite the maritime row na the seventh-largest source of Roadshow, we generated sig- no people, which has been our ment and expansion plans in
between Manila and Beijing. investment approvals this year. nificant interest from various primary objective,” Trade Un- the country particularly in the
On Tuesday, the BOI said it ap- To bring in more projects sectors. We conveyed to the dersecretary and BOI Managing sectors of electric vehicle and
proved over PHP1 billion worth from the East Asian nation, the investors that our goal is to Head Ceferino Rodolfo said. consumer goods manufactur-
of projects from Chinese sourc- BOI sent a delegation to China transform the Philippine econ- The BOI engaged with 21 ing, infrastructure, green met-
es from January to September last month to promote the Phil- omy to enter a virtuous cycle companies in various sectors, als, and mining activities. ■
www.canadianinquirer.net
 24 BUSINESS FRIDAY October 4, 2024

Battle of the giants: The EU and U.S. are

concerned about China’s industrial overcapacity
By Yaxin Zhou, Université de and very small demand in the of Commerce report for the im- the sanctions. For example, When China joined the World
Montréal domestic market. These two port and export of machinery they could team up with Eu- Trade Organization (WTO) in
The Conversation factors mean that the supply and electronic products. ropean manufacturers. This 2001, the Western market was
stimulated by public funding in State funding also means that, is the case for XPeng Motors in for an initial shock. Original-
China far exceeds the demand of for the same model, the price of and Leapmotor, two Chinese ly, the famous “made in China”
Long dubbed “the world’s local markets. The result is that an EV sold in China is half that groups that in 2024 signed col- label was almost a joke, given
factory,” China is no longer sat- Chinese products are flooding on the European market. Fund- laboration agreements, respec- the poor quality of the prod-
isfied with exporting only low- international markets, where, ing aside, Chinese EVs cost al- tively, with Volkswagen and ucts, but since then, low prices
end manufacturing products. with their very competitive pric- most as much as European EVs Stellantis, the two leading EV for Chinese goods have turned
With its exports of electric ve- es, they threaten the survival of to produce. And European EVs manufacturers in Europe. out to be a tenacious strategy.
hicles (EVs), solar panels and domestic manufacturers. still account for the lion’s share Factory of the world, top- The second shock has just
lithium batteries, China is now Chinese government subsi- of the European market. of-the-range version? begun, and is likely to have
in the process of conquering dies are particularly prevalent A change on the horizon? The problem Chinese indus- far more severe consequences
the American and European throughout the green produc- However, a recent factor try represents in the eyes of its than the first. This time, China
green markets. This is why the tion chain. China’s strategy in- could change things. The Chi- economic competitors is not so has an exceptional combina-
European Union and the Unit- cludes cheap loans, low-cost ac- nese government ended all much its “overcapacity” in terms tion of four strengths; (1) It ac-
ed States, in particular, have cess to land, huge investments subsidies for solar panels and of production, but rather the counts for 30 per cent of global
begun criticizing China for its in infrastructure and consumer EVs at the end of 2022. This change in its economic model, manufacturing; (2) its labour
“industrial overcapacity.” premiums. Chinese subsidies in could have a negative impact which is now focusing on top- force remains relatively cheap;
China immediately retorted: the green industry are three to on the domestic market and of-the-range products with its (3) it has advanced technolog-
“Globally, green capacity is not nine times higher than those of lead to even greater exports to famous “made in China 2025” ical capabilities; (4) its state
in excess, it is in short supply. countries in the Organization the international market. project. In less than 20 years, subsidies are abundant.
The problem is not overcapac- for Economic Co-operation and So the EU was right to sanc- this paradigm shift resulted in So the challenge posed by
ity but excessive anxiety.” But Development (OECD). tion Chinese EVs. However, the rise of a Chinese green in- China to the Western green
that doesn’t change the prob- By 2023, China will control an Chinese companies will very dustry before Western govern- industry is significant. In addi-
lem of Chinese overcapacity. average of 71 per cent of global likely find ways to get around ments had time to prepare for it. tion to state subsidies and Chi-
So, beyond this rhetorical bat- production in the EV, solar pan- na’s “industrial overcapacity,”
tle, what is it about China’s el and lithium battery industries the comparative advantages of
manufacturing industry that (EV 60 per cent, solar panels 80 Chinese companies in this in-
worries the European Union per cent and lithium batteries dustry also play a part.
and the United States? 74 per cent) and on average ac- Take the example of the EV,
In my work as a doctoral counts for 66 per cent of global where 30-40 per cent of the
candidate in political science sales (EV 60 per cent, solar pan- price comes from the battery.
at the Université de Montréal, els 80 per cent and lithium bat- BYD, the largest EV manufactur-
I am studying the relationship teries 60 per cent). er in China, is almost self-suffi-
between China and the coun- However, these figures need cient throughout the production
tries of Southeast Asia and to be taken with a grain of chain, since it produces not only
working on a comparison of salt. Although China is now most of the car’s critical parts,
the European Union (EU) and the world’s largest producer but above all, its battery.
the Association of Southeast and seller of green products, After the sanctions, a better
Asian Nations (ASEAN). the domestic Chinese market future for local manufacturers?
Abundant subsidies accounts for the lion’s share Green industry is the key
In so far as it concerns Euro- of consumption: almost 90 per to achieving climate goals.
peans and Americans, China’s cent of Chinese production of However, it is not always easy
overcapacity can be summed up EVs and lithium batteries, and to convince stakeholders to
by two main elements: massive 60 per cent of solar panels, ac-
Chinese government subsidies, cording to the China Chamber PAGE 27 Battle of the giants:

BSP sees September inflation to settle

within 2% to 2.8%
By Anna Leah Gonzales within 2 percent to 2.8 percent. the primary sources of down- "Going forward, the Mone- The Philippine Statistics Au-
Philippine News Agency "Negative base effects along ward price pressures for the tary Board will continue to take thority is set to release the Sep-
with lower prices of food com- month," the central bank said a measured approach in ensur- tember 2024 headline inflation
modities, including rice, meat, in a statement late Monday. ing price stability conducive data next week.
MANILA – The Bangko Sen- and vegetables, as well as low- The BSP said these are expected to balanced and sustainable Headline inflation eased to
tral ng Pilipinas (BSP) expects er domestic oil prices, and the to offset the higher prices of fish growth of the economy and em- 3.3 percent in August from 4.4
September inflation to settle appreciation of the peso are and fruits, and electricity rates. ployment," the BSP said. percent in July. ■
www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 BUSINESS 25

Loans and other financial products need detailed

labelling like food and prescriptions
By Brenda Spotton Visano, no surprise that money issues nancial contract summaries.
John Stapleton are among the highest causes of A caution added to “no med-
Policy Options stress and are among the most ical life insurance” products
detrimental factors to financial might read: ”Providing a de-
and overall well-being. tailed medical report may result
Coupled with unbiased ad- Easily identifiable sources of in lower life insurance costs.” In
vice, that’s the best way for unbiased financial advice would the case of reverse mortgages,
consumers to make prudent, help ease the stress of manag- directions for use could be sim-
cost-effective decisions. ing in tight times. Suitability in- ply: “A reverse mortgage is a
How much does it cost to formation and proper labelling type of loan for homeowners.”
borrow $500? with cautions could offer basic Requiring a link to the Finan-
Payday lenders advertise user information. Accessible cial Consumer Agency of Cana-
$14 per $100. Credit card cash support could offer a place to da’s (FCAC) unbiased descrip-
advances are 22 per cent, plus answer consumer questions. tion and suitability assessment
a one-time fee that’s either a Co-author John Stapleton would be an easy pointer to
fixed amount or a percentage holds low-income retirement valuable consumer information.
of the total. If a customer ac- sessions at libraries in Toronto But to whom might consumers
cesses the cash advance via an and across Ontario. The major- turn if they run into trouble?
ATM, there may be an addi- ity of attendees are thunder- Here again, the options are
tional fee. An instalment loan struck to find out that a reverse complex and confusing.
is soon to be capped at 35 per mortgage is a loan that must be If someone decides against
cent. Overdrafts usually cost repaid as opposed to sharing $500 for two weeks, a payday • Consumer preferences differ. turning to the sellers of the fi-
$5 each, plus 21 per cent. equity in their home that only loan may be cheaper at $14 per • Information is clear and nancial products themselves,
So what exactly does the their estate needs to settle. $100 than options that charge concise. there is no shortage of finan-
consumer pay? They most often say they one-time fees in addition to a • Information on product cial advisers, planners, coun-
Total costs are often buried in would never choose to move or daily interest rate. But if the use enhances safety. sellors, managers and gurus
a sea of details. The absence of sell their homes just to repay term is longer, that calculation • Costs and benefits are from whom to choose. But
a final bottom line hinders com- this debt. As marketed today, will change. borne by the consumer. which title confers expertise in
parison shopping. The lack of these loans are advertised as The inability to identify final • Standards, certification and the needed area?
critical information relevant to “tax-free cash without having costs and suitability compli- enforcement can be established. Since 1998 in Quebec, finan-
suitability of a loan to a borrower to move or sell and no monthly cates the consumer’s decision • No political consensus on cial planners have had to be
increases the risk to consumers. mortgage payments required.” unnecessarily. regulation exists. certified before they can use
The solution is simple: Fi- Yet buried in the fine print are At Stapleton’s workshops, These conditions also apply that title.
nancial products should be re- conditions that could trigger participants often say they be- to financial products. That’s not necessarily so in
quired to carry the same kind an early repayment obligation. lieve that life insurance with Best practices in product la- other jurisdictions. In Ontario,
of upfront labelling that ap- How products are framed no required medical checkup belling require plain language, for example, the Financial Pro-
plies to food in the supermar- and labelled is critical for deter- or blood test is cheaper be- clear and consistent format- fessionals Title Protection Act
ket or drugs at the pharmacy. mining the best fit in other ar- cause medical assessments are ting and organization of infor- came into force in 2019 and
Coupled with unbiased advice eas, too, especially for students thought to be costly. Silence on mation, as well as explicit in- covers only advisers (for in-
and someone to turn to for in need of financial support. possible adverse consequences structions for use, especially in vestment advice) and planning
help, that’s the best way for When higher education costs of potentially higher insurance the case of prescription drugs. (for estates). Where do indebt-
consumers to make prudent, are viewed as loans to be paid costs (due to applicants being How hard can that be? ed consumers go to speak to
cost-effective decisions. back with interest, the proba- assigned a high-risk rating) The U.S.-based Mission As- counsellors who are not also
Current disclosure rules re- bility that students would opt leaves some participants mak- set Fund models a “financial trying to sell them licensed in-
sult in extremely long and com- for that approach decreased by ing wrong decisions. facts” labelling standard. A solvency trustee services?
plex fee schedules and personal eight to 11 percentage points Give users straight finan- front-of-contract policy would In Australia, the federal and
account agreements that under- when compared to offering cial facts require a contract summary two state governments support
mine efforts to promote finan- students an “income-shar- The absence of notice about with basic content in a prede- a national debt helpline which
cial literacy. Without standard ing” agreement with money adverse consequences and cau- termined standardized format. provides online information as
reporting requirements, these advanced today traded for a tions may yield faulty conclu- It would identify clearly and well as an opportunity to chat
documents only increase the share of income in the future. sions. Recent research found simply total costs, monthly pay- with a financial counsellor. This
potential for misunderstanding. A bundle of contract terms food labels identifying sugar ments and the annual percentage is especially valuable for people
Canadians need to know which often masks the cost, suitability and caloric content increased rate, including interest and total struggling financially and fac-
financial product is most suitable and risk of financial products. consumer awareness and con- fees. It could separate out man- ing a complex situation, for ex-
for their needs, how much it will Interest rates — quoted in terms cern about food quality. But then datory fees from optional ones. ample, if they are in an abusive
cost them and whether there are of annual percentage rates shoppers would substitute unla- The contract to which the relationship, dealing with men-
any adverse effects. sometimes with varying com- belled products, believing incor- label was affixed would also tal health issues or in prison.
Clear information, unbi- pounding periods — are mixed rectly that they were healthier. come in a standard format and The FCAC information page
ased advice with simple percentages and flat Standardized product label- include information about can- for managing debt is a start.
If they run into difficulty fees — both independent of the ling can help inform consumer celling the agreement during a Consumers need easy access to
with a financial product or have time over which one borrows. choice where there is unbal- cooling-off period and stopping a financial counsellor who can
questions, they need to be able In the absence of compa- anced information. Labelling optional services at any time. provide quality, situation-ap-
to identify where to go for un- rable information, financial with nutritional value, product Finally, we suggest adding propriate advice untethered to
biased advice. In the absence of consumers may draw faulty safety, processing information appropriate “caution” and “di- a potential seller.
clear, concise and comparable conclusions about product suit- and warning signs is appropriate rections for/recommended
information and instruction, it’s ability. For example, to borrow under the following conditions: use” segments to standard fi- PAGE 30 Loans and other

www.canadianinquirer.net
 26 FRIDAY October 4, 2024

TECHNOLOGY
Wondering what AI actually is?
Here are the 7 things it can do for you
By Sandra Peter, University phone, or when you clear cus- in hours, not just days. tion and recommendation to like the look on someone’s face?
of Sydney, Kai Riemer, toms at the airport. Recommendation full automation. Change into a smile. Want a
University of Sydney Pattern recognition is all Once we predict, we can In Germany, large wind tur- boat on that lake? Just add it in.
The Conversation around us – whether it’s license make recommendations for bines use AI to keep the lesser And it doesn’t stop there.
plate recognition when you park what to do next. spotted eagle safe. An AI al- Tools such as Runway let
your car at the mall, or when the If you went to Taylor Swift’s gorithm detects approaching you manipulate videos or cre-
You know we’ve reached police scan your registration. It’s Eras tour concert at Sydney’s birds and automatically slows ate new ones with just a text
peak interest in artificial in- used in manufacturing for qual- Accor stadium, you were kept down the turbines allowing prompt. ElevenLabs allows you
telligence (AI) when Oprah ity control to detect defective safe thanks to AI recommenda- them to pass unharmed. to generate synthetic voices
Winfrey hosts a television spe- parts, in health care to identi- tions. A system funded by the Closer to home, Melbourne or digitise existing ones from
cial about it. AI is truly every- fy cancer in MRI scans, or to New South Wales government Water uses AI to autonomous- short recordings. These can be
where. And we will all have a identify potholes by using bus- used data from multiple sourc- ly regulate its pump control used to narrate audiobooks,
relationship with it – whether es equipped with cameras that es to analyse the movement system to reduce energy costs but also carry risks such as
using it, building it, governing monitor the roads in Sydney. and mood of the 80,000 strong by around 20% per year. In deepfake impersonation.
it or even befriending it. Classification crowd, providing real-time rec- Western Sydney, local buses on And we haven’t even men-
But what exactly is AI? Once an AI system can rec- ommendations to ensure ev- key routes are AI-enabled: if a tioned large language models
While most people won’t need ognise patterns, we can train it eryone’s safety. bus is running late, the system such as ChatGPT, which are
to know exactly how it works to detect subtle variations and AI-based recommendations predicts its arrival at the next transforming how we work
under the hood, we will all categorise them. This is how are everywhere. Social media, intersection and automatically with text and how we devel-
need to understand what it can your photo app neatly organis- streaming platforms, delivery green-lights its journey. op computer code. Research
do. In our conversations with es albums by family members, services and shopping apps all Generation by McKinsey found that these
global leaders across business, or how apps identify and label use past behaviour patterns Once we can encode com- models can cut the time re-
government and the arts, one different kinds of skin lesions. to present you with their “for plex patterns into neural net- quired for complex coding
thing stood out – you can’t fake AI classification is also at work you” pages. Even pig farms works, we can also use these tasks by up to 50%.
it anymore. AI fluency that is. behind the scenes when phone use pig facial recognition and patterns to generate new, sim- Interaction
AI isn’t just about chatbots. companies and banks identify tracking to alert farmers to any ilar ones. This works with all Finally, generative AI also
To help understand what it spam and fraud calls. issues and recommend particu- kinds of data – images, text, makes it possible to mimic hu-
is about, we’ve developed a In New Zealand, non-profit lar interventions. audio and video. man-like interactions.
framework which explains the organisation Te Hiku devel- Automation Image generation is now built Soon, virtual assistants,
broad broad range of capabil- oped an AI language model to It’s a small step from predic- into many new phones. Don’t companions and digital hu-
ities it offers. We call this the classify thousands of hours of mans will be everywhere. They
“capabilities stack”. recordings to help revitalise will attend your Zoom meeting
We see AI systems as having Te Reo Māori, the local indig- to take notes and schedule fol-
seven basic kinds of capability, enous language. low-up meetings.
each building on the ones below Prediction Interactive AI assistants,
it in the stack. From least com- When AI is trained on past such as IBM’s AskHR bot, will
plex to most, these are: recogni- data, it can be used to predict answer your HR questions.
tion, classification, prediction, future outcomes. For example, And when you get home, your
recommendation, automation, airlines use AI to predict the es- AI friend app will entertain
generation and interaction. timated arrival times of incom- you, while digital humans on
Recognition ing flights and to assign gates social media are ready to sell
At its core, the kind of AI we on time so you don’t end up you anything, any time. And
are seeing in consumer products waiting on the tarmac. with voice mode activated,
today identifies patterns. Unlike Similarly, Google Flights uses even ChatGPT gets in on the
traditional coding, where devel- AI to predict flight delays even inter-action.
opers explicitly program how a before airlines announce them. Amid the excitement around
system works, AI “learns” these In Hong Kong, an AI pre- generative AI, it is important
patterns from vast datasets, en- diction model saves taxpayer to remember that AI is more
abling it to perform tasks. This money by predicting when a than chatbots. It impacts many
“learning” is essentially just ad- project needs early interven- things beyond the flashy con-
vanced mathematics that turns tion to prevent it overrunning versational tools – often in
patterns into complex probabi- its budget and completion ways that quietly improve ev-
listic models – encoded in so- date. And when you buy stuff eryday processes. ■
called artificial neural networks. on Amazon, the ecommerce gi-
Once learned, patterns can ant uses AI to predict demand This article is republished
be recognised – such as your and optimise delivery routes, from The Conversation under a
face, when you open your so you get your packages with- Creative Commons license
www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 TECHNOLOGY 27

AI probably isn’t the big smartphone selling point

that Apple and other tech giants think it is
By Lars Erik Holmquist, Generative AI has also be- does point towards a future
Nottingham Trent University come a useful tool for profes- use of AI that is more real-time,
The Conversation sionals in many fields. Accord- interactive, and situated in re-
ing to a survey, 97% of software al-world environments.
developers have used AI tools to In the extension, Apple Intel-
As is their tradition at this support their work. Many jour- ligence and the Reduce mode
time of year, Apple announced nalists, visual artists, musicians could evolve into so-called
a new line of iPhones last and filmmakers have adopted “context-aware computing”,
week. The promised cen- AI tools to create content more which has been envisioned
trepiece that would make us quickly and more efficiently. and demonstrated in research
want to buy these new devices Yet most of us are not actual- projects since the 1990s, but
was AI – or Apple Intelligence, ly prepared to pay for a service for the most part has not yet
as they branded it. Yet the reac- that draws funny cartoon cats become robust enough to be a
tion from the collective world or summarises text –- especially real product category.
of consumer technology has since attempts at AI-supported The kicker to all this is that
been muted. search have shown to be prone Apple Intelligence is not yet re-
The lack of enthusiasm from to errors. Apple’s approach to ally available for anyone to try,
consumers was so evident it deploying artificial intelligence as the new iPhones do not yet
immediately wiped over a hun- seems to mostly be a mishmash include them. Perhaps it will
dred billion dollars off Apple’s of existing functions, many of turn out they are more valuable
share price. Even the Wired which are already built into than the limited information
Gadget Lab podcast, enthusiasts popular third-party apps. seems to indicate. But Apple
of all new things tech, found Since their introduction, the Before AI, the industry Apple’s AI can help you cre- used to be known for only re-
nothing in the new capabilities models driving these experi- was trying to create hype ate a custom emoji, transcribe a leasing a product when it was
that would make them want to ences have become much more around virtual reality and the phone call, edit a photo, or write well and truly ready, meaning
upgrade to the iPhone 16. powerful – and exponentially Metaverse, an effort that prob- an email –- neat, but no longer that the use-case was crystal
The only thing that did seem more expensive. ably peaked with the introduc- groundbreaking stuff. There is clear and the user experience
to generate some excitement Nevertheless, Google, NVidia, tion of the Apple Vision Pro also something called Reduce had been honed to perfection.
was not the AI features, but Microsoft and OpenAI recently headset in 2023 (a product mode that is supposed to disturb This is what made the iPod
the addition of a new camera met at the White House to dis- that incidentally was barely you less and only let through and iPhone so much more at-
shutter button on the side of cuss AI infrastructure, suggest- even mentioned in last week’s important notifications, but it’s tractive than all the MP3 play-
the phone. If a button is a bet- ing these companies are dou- announcement). anyone’s guess how well that ers and smartphones released
ter selling point than the most bling down on the technology. After the Metaverse failed will work in reality. before them. It is anyone’s
hyped technology of the past According to Forbes, the in- to take off, tech companies The one forward-looking fea- guess if Apple’s approach to AI
couple of years, something is dustry is US$500 billion (£375 needed something else to drive ture is called Visual Intelligence. will be able to claw back some
clearly amiss. billion) short of making back sales, and AI has become the It allows you to aim the camera of the lost stock price, not to
The reason is that AI has the massive investments in AI new shiny thing. But it remains at something in the surround- mention the hundreds of bil-
now passed what tech blog hardware and software, and the to be seen whether consumers ings and get information with- lions invested by them and the
The Media Copilot called its US$100 billion in AI revenue will take to the AI-based fea- out explicitly doing a search. For rest of the tech industry. After
“wonderment phase”. Two projected to be made in 2024 is tures included in phones such instance, you might photograph all, AI still has amazing poten-
years ago, we were amazed not even close to this figure. But as photo-editing and writing a restaurant sign, and the phone tial, but it may be time to slow
that ChatGPT, DALL-E and oth- Apple still has to enthusiastically assistants. This is not to say will tell you the menu, show you down a bit, and take a moment
er generative AI systems were push AI features into their prod- that current AI is not useful. reviews – and perhaps even help to consider where it will actu-
able to create coherent writing ucts for the same reason that AI technologies are used in you book a table. ally be the most useful. ■
and realistic images from just Google, Samsung and Microsoft billion-dollar industry applica- Although this is very remi-
a few words in a text prompt. are doing it –- to give consumers tions, in everything from on- niscent of the Lens in Google’s This article is republished
But now, AI needs to show that a reason to buy a new device. line advertisement to health- Pixel phones (or ChatGPT’s from The Conversation under a
it can actually be productive. Tough sell? care and energy optimisation. multimodal capabilities) it Creative Commons license

Battle of the giants:.. PH wins mixed.. The seven greatest..

24 change their orienta- is only the first step. 22 delegation to win the the Lucena City Pickleball Club, 18 release of the song in
tion, especially when Europe and the United States gold," said Zoleta, sponsors and brand collabs Lu- 2003. This may have
the cost of the transi- must review their industrial pol- whose younger sister nar Pickleball, Meralco, K-Swiss prompted its use in
tion is significant. icies, and the state must inter- Bambi also plays pickleball. Philippines and Bravado Sports the divisive indie movie Gar-
Europe and the United States vene where and how it can. ■ Since the Philippines has no Apparel, and of course, to my den State (2004), elevating
are right in accusing China of national pickleball team yet, Zo- coaches for supporting my par- Iron and Wine to deservedly
providing massive subsidies. This article was originally leta's trip to Bali was made pos- ticipation here," said Zoleta, who greater heights in the process.
However, for a new industry published in French sible with the help of her family debuted at the Asia Pickleball Steve Ryan ■
to prosper and win its market This article is republished and generous supporters. Open in Phuket, Thailand last
share in increasingly fierce from The Conversation under a "I am so thankful to my fami- February and bagged the wom- This article is republished
global competition, closing its Creative Commons license. ly, my club Team Zoleta for pre- en's doubles bronze medal with from The Conversation under a
market to external competition paring me for this tournament, American Yanhua Hawkins. ■ Creative Commons license.
www.canadianinquirer.net
 28 TECHNOLOGY FRIDAY October 4, 2024

How do we know if ChatGPT can recognise a face?

By Robin Kramer, University test. In this task, only the eye face matching test”, in which vide answers when I presented that it has been trained on an
of Lincoln regions of photographs are participants are presented with it with what’s known as the “fa- extensive amount of text (and
The Conversation presented, along with four 40 pairs of face images. Half of mous faces doppelgangers test”. now image) data. This allows it
descriptive words as options the pairs comprise two photos A pair of faces is shown on to learn the structure and pat-
regarding what the person in showing the same person, tak- each of 40 trials, along with terns that exist within the data,
For the last year, ChatGPT the picture is thinking or feel- en using different cameras. For a celebrity’s name, and par- and subsequently generate sen-
has been able to analyse images ing (with one of these being the other half, the two photos ticipants are asked to identify sible responses to almost any
as well as text as a feature of its the correct answer). show two different but simi- which face is that particular question or request by the user.
latest version – GPT-4V(ision). The test, which you can try for lar-looking people. celebrity (left or right). They’re ChatGPT says that face imag-
For instance, if you upload yourself, is considered a mea- When asked to decide if the also asked if they know the ce- es were also a significant part
a photograph of the contents sure of “theory of mind”. This re- images show the same person lebrity or not. of its training data, although it
of your fridge, ChatGPT can fers to someone’s ability to inter- or not, the average score for The task is made difficult be- doesn’t store and recall specif-
describe what’s in the photo pret another person’s behaviour participants is 81.3%. When I cause the other face is very simi- ic images. Instead, it appears
and then recommend poten- based on their mental state. Peo- subjected ChatGPT to the test, lar in appearance to the celebrity to rely on the general patterns
tial meal ideas based on those ple typically score around 26-31 it scored 92.5%. – in other words, a doppelgang- and associations it has learned
ingredients, along with suit- out of a possible 36. ChatGPT Finally, I wanted to consid- er. People generally score around during its training. Other sourc-
able recipes. Or you can pho- answered 29 questions correct- er face recognition. To avoid 81.5% for those trials where the es seem to confirm this.
tograph a hand-drawn sketch ly, slightly more than in a recent uses that infringe on people’s celebrity is known to the per- Presumably, through exposure
of how you’d like your new study where other researchers privacy, ChatGPT has been de- son. (If they don’t know who the to numerous face images along-
website to look and ChatGPT gave it the same test. signed to refuse when asked to celebrity is, their choice would side text that included the word
will take that image and pro- Going beyond facial expres- identify people in images. How- simply be a guess.) “suspicious”, for example, it was
vide you with the HTML code sions, I next tested ChatGPT ever, when pressed for its best Impressively, ChatGPT able to develop a representation
to make the site. on a task called the “Glasgow “guess”, it was willing to pro- scored 100% correct across all of that facial expression which
You can also upload a still of the trials for this test. was distinct from other expres-
frame from part way through a Putting it all together sions like “sarcastic”.
film. ChatGPT can identify the On the basis of my experi- Similarly, refining its repre-
film and summarise the plot up ence, ChatGPT seems well- sentation of a celebrity’s face
to that point only. The list of ap- equipped to perform tasks re- through multiple exposures
plications is virtually endless. lated to the recognition and meant that it could subsequent-
As a researcher interested in identification of human faces ly differentiate them from other,
face perception, I’m particular- – including their expressions. similar-looking faces. Howev-
ly curious about how ChatGPT It performed as well as or even er, again, this is admittedly in-
handles face images – match- better than people do for these formed speculation on my part.
ing two different images of the three tests, at least. Based on my results and
same person, for example. But Of course, these were my ini- other demonstrations of this
how can we judge just how tial explorations rather than a latest version of the chatbot, it
good the chatbot is at recognis- peer-reviewed study, so more seems likely that ChatGPT’s al-
ing faces? To explore how well work is needed to firmly estab- ready remarkable performance
people perform with faces, psy- lish its abilities. But it does sug- across a wide variety of tasks
chologists have come up with gest that ChatGPT can handle will continue to improve with
numerous tests that assess dif- face images. each new version released. ■
ferent abilities, so I decided to ChatGPT is based on a type of
try ChatGPT on some of these. artificial intelligence (AI) pro- This article is republished
First, I tried it on the “read- gram called a large language from The Conversation under a
ing the mind in the eyes” model (LLM), which means Creative Commons license.

Why the changing.. The Supreme Court..

17 Joey, Chandler, Phoe- so many people today. The real and syndication are virtually 9 ing to implement lan- tality of English and French lin-
be and Ross is certain- world is beset with isolation, critic-proof in that they are rec- guage rights. guistic minority communities,”
ly a wishful one for loneliness, sometimes insur- ommended by word of mouth Ultimately, it is the including the “justice” sector.
many. They live in improbably mountable problems, occasion- rather than increasingly ideo- federal government’s responsi- In many respects, the Su-
nice apartments for their jobs ally fear and certainly drudg- logically centred reviews. View- bility to provide the Supreme preme Court is exemplary in
(or lack of them), and they ery. But with Friends, as the ers just want it to be funny. Court with the financial means terms of institutional bilingual-
are defined by their personal- chirpy theme song reminds us, Oh: And in case you were to carry out this important ism, and in this instance, no one
ities rather than their careers. there is always someone “there wondering, the final line in the project. Under Part VII of the doubts its good faith. But these
They are good looking and well for you” – if only in surrogate. whole of Friends went to the late OLA, the federal government is old, unilingual decisions are a
dressed, and the series centres Some critics today carp about Matthew Perry as Chandler Bing. required to take “positive mea- stain on its record that sooner
on their ample leisure and so- the show’s lack of diversity and When Rachel suggests they all sures” to “support the creation or later it needs to remove. ■
cial time. Unlike reality, argu- outdated attitudes to the cul- go for one last coffee, Chandler and dissemination of informa-
ments are always overcome tural issues of the present day. quips: “Sure. Where?” ■ tion in French that contributes This article was originally
and – most importantly of all – While this may be true, like TV to the advancement of scientif- published in French
friendship always triumphs. series, criticism also dates. And This article is republished ic knowledge in any discipline” This article is republished
What a contrast this vision series which have long gone from The Conversation under a and to “support sectors that are from The Conversation under a
provides to the actual lives of into reruns, repeats, streaming Creative Commons license essential to enhancing the vi- Creative Commons license.
www.canadianinquirer.net
 FRIDAY October 4, 2024 29

TRAVEL
Dine and Unwind: Five ‘Under The Radar’ Japanese
Destinations for Culinary and Cultural Exploration
BOOKING.COM also the birthplace of cultured local guide to provide their take Hokkaido is home to the best ty, and delectable cuisine. In the
pearls which can be traced back on an insightful introduction to dairy in Japan, offering some of capital Matsuyama, the historic
to the sea of Ise Shima, where the city. the dreamiest and creamiest soft- Dogo Onsen is one of Japan’s
As the number of travelers the world's first successful pearl Where to stay: SHISHI-IWA- serve ice cream. It is so famous oldest hot springs, with a his-
choosing Japan as their destina- farming began. HOUSE Karuizawa Just a short that the soft serve from Hokkaido tory spanning over 3,000 years.
tion continues to rise, many are Where to stay: Nemu Resort six minute drive from the town has been brought to cities outside Beyond the onsen, visitors can
drawn by the country's excep- Hotel is located on 740 acres center, SHISHI-IWA-HOUSE of Japan like Singapore, Malay- explore the charming streets of
tional culinary experiences. With overlooking scenic Ago Bay sur- Karuizawa offers guests a sia, and Taiwan through franchis- Dogo Onsen town, lined with
(46%)*of global travelers indi- rounded by Ise-Shima National peaceful retreat folded into es. With its convenient roadways traditional shops, cafes, and
cating that local cuisine signifi- Park and is also a short distance Nagano prefecture forest. and scenic routes, Hokkaido is ryokan known for their warm
cantly influences their destina- from the Hanakake Ebisu stat- Guests can indulge in wellness perfect for an extended road hospitality and local special-
tion choices, Japan's renowned ue as well as the Kashikojima experiences amidst the distinc- trip any time of the year, allow- ties. Be sure to sample "botchan
food scene is a major attraction. Bridge, which features on many tive natural beauty of Karuiza- ing travelers to leisurely uncover dango," a beloved local sweet
Combine this with (67%)**of ‘must see’ bucket lists. The ho- wa. At the on-site restaurant, some of the hidden gems such as inspired by Natsume Soseki’s fa-
travelers who are looking to rest tel offers a variety of outdoor SHOLA, diners are treated to Furano and Biei attractions by mous novel "Botchan." The town
and recharge, and Japan soon and marine activities, includ- a culinary journey that empha- rental car. also features a pedestrian-only
makes the perfect backdrop for ing yoga and stand up paddle sizes the use of unique, locally Where to stay: Wakamatsu Hot arcade shopping street, perfect
travelers who want to enjoy and boarding, hot springs and a golf sourced ingredients, fostering Spring Resort is a distinguished for enjoying local food, sweets,
experience a vibrant food scene course. On-site baths include a meaningful connections with ryokan (traditional Japanese and cafes at a leisurely pace.
as well as having the opportunity hot-spring available to guests to local producers and capturing inn) that exemplifies traditional Where to stay: Dougoya is a
to kick back and relax in a tran- unwind from a day of activities. the essence of local flavors. Japanese-style accommodation. charming ryokan (traditional Jap-
quil & culturally rich destination. The restaurant at the property Hokkaido Renowned for its exceptional Mi- anese inn) located in Dogo Onsen,
While Japan has its share of also features a variety of local Located in northern Japan, chelin star cuisine, the resort of- Matsuyama, Japan, known for its
iconic destinations, we have ingredients and dishes. Hokkaido presents a diverse fers guests the opportunity to sa- deep historical roots and exquisite
curated a selection of ‘hidden Karuizawa, Nagano array of year-round highlights vor a variety of dishes made from hospitality. The ryokan preserves
gems’ that offer the perfect blend Just an hour from Tokyo, and culinary delights such as Hokkaido’s finest ingredients, its historic ambiance, offering
of culinary delights and serene, Karuizawa is an idyllic town Hokkaido Crab, Jingisukan and whether in the privacy of their guests a glimpse into the past
off-the-beaten-path adventures, known for its all year round ap- Sea Urchin. From fall to winter, rooms or in an exclusive dining while providing modern com-
allowing visitors to explore the peal, with plenty of activities to travelers can admire the snow- room. The resort also boasts its forts. One of the highlights of a
country’s lesser-known, yet enjoy, ranging from golf, hiking capped mountains and relax in own natural hot spring where stay at Dougoya is the culinary ex-
equally enchanting, destinations and cycling in summer to ski- soothing hot springs, while sum- guests are treated to breathtak- perience, where guests can savor
at their own pace. ing and ice skating in winter. mer invites exploration of vibrant ing views of the Tsugaru Strait seasonal kaiseki (multi-course)
Ise Shima, Mie Prefecture It’s also a popular destination to lavender fields and outdoor ac- and Shimokita Peninsula. meals made from the freshest lo-
Renowned for its picturesque enjoy the colorful autumn foli- tivities. Across the year, visitors Matsuyama, Ehime prefecture cal ingredients.
beauty and serene coastal towns, age during the crisper months. can discover unique festivals Ehime, located in Japan's Shi- Awaji Island
Ise Shima is a region located in Karuizawa has become a and savor the region's renowned koku region, is a rich blend of Awaji Island, located in the
Mie Prefecture, which is on the sought-after destination for food fresh seafood and dairy products. cultural heritage, natural beau- Seto Inland Sea of Japan, is a
eastern coast of Japan's Kii Penin- and especially drink enthusiasts, captivating destination known
sula. This is a haven for both na- boasting a rich selection of local for its stunning coastal land-
ture lovers and gourmet enthusi- sake breweries, wineries, and scapes, rolling hills, and lush
asts. The region boasts stunning whisky distilleries. Visitors can greenery. Often referred to as
landscapes, including majestic enjoy tastings of expertly craft- the "Island of Flowers,"Awaji
mountains and clear views of ed beverages alongside delicious is famous for its beautiful gar-
Mount Fuji on clear days, which local cuisine, such as pudding dens, including the renowned
can be visited through the Mount flavored Dorayaki, Green Wasa- Awaji Hanasajiki, where season-
Fuji Day Tour. Culinary aficiona- bi buns and Curry Pan making it al blooms create breathtaking
dos will appreciate Ise Shima’s a perfect spot for a memorable displays. The island also offers
seasonal delicacies, especially its culinary journey in Nagano Pre- a variety of attractions, from
fresh seafood such as spiny lob- fecture. The best way to really historic shrines and temples
ster and abalone which can be dive into the culture is to see the to modern architectural mar-
enjoyed in the charming towns city through the eyes of a pas- vels like the Naruto Whirlpools
like Toba and Ago Bay. Travel- sionate local. The Nagano Like a and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge,
ers can indulge in the rich local Local: Customized Private Tour the world's longest suspension
culture by visiting the Sengu- comes with no set itinerary - the bridge. With its blend of nat-
kan museum, Jingu Chokokan experience can either be com- ural beauty, cultural heritage,
museum, Geku Shrine, and the pletely customized by the travel-
Forest of Ise Jingu. Ise Shime is er or left in the safe hands of the PAGE 30 Dine and Unwind:

www.canadianinquirer.net
 30 FRIDAY October 4, 2024

FOOD
Negrense flavors showcased in Italy slow food event
By Nanette Guadalquiver and Negros Occidental, through Another event featured a ents, including products from the of grilled chicken (inasal) and
Philippine News Agency our delicious offerings," Mayor "delicious exploration of the Ark of Taste in the Philippines. pickled papaya (atsara).
Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, who unique cuisine of the Visayas The tasting lineup included Also presented were KBL
led the delegation from this city, archipelago." "Kinilaw," a ceviche made with (kadyos, baboy, langka), a
BACOLOD CITY – The fla- said in a statement. The region's Cooks’ Alliance salted blue marlin and salt- hearty soup made with kadyos
vors of Bacolod City and Ne- During the product activa- presented the history behind ed duck eggs, and "Inasal kag pigeon peas, also known as
gros Occidental were featured tion for Terra Madre Philippines some local recipes and ingredi- Atsara," a tasty combination Congo peas grown on the is-
by the Philippines in the ongo- 2025 on Sunday, Benitez talked lands of Panay and Negros,
ing international gastronomy about positioning Bacolod as a along with pork (baboy) and
exhibition Terra Madre Salone "slow food hub in Asia." jackfruit (langka).
del Gusto 2024 in Turin, Italy. At the “Salu-Salo (eating In a separate statement, Vic-
Organized every two years together): Philippines Good, torias City Mayor Javier Miguel
by Slow Food International, Clean and Fair Fiesta!” booth Benitez, who is part of the dele-
Terra Madre is considered "the opening on Sept. 26, Bacolod gation from Negros Occidental,
largest event dedicated to food and Negros Occidental featured said he is "honored and proud to
politics, sustainable agriculture coffee by Coffee Coalition; ca- represent the country at the world
and the environment." cao by Chris Fadriga; lechon by stage and showcase the authentic
Slow food refers to dishes that Jayjay Sycip; heirloom rice and taste of Philippine flavors."
are well-prepared, not in haste inanchila by Rowena Gonnay; "Together, we continue to
as opposed to fast food, and uses langka salad, dinuguan and push for good, clean, and fair
locally sourced ingredients. puto by Joeri Arro and April PROMOTING NEGRENSE FLAVORS. Officials from Bacolod City and Negros Occidental at food for everyone," Benitez,
"We hope visitors will savor Justiniani; Chicken House ina- the Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2024 in Turin, Italy being held Sept. 26 to 30, 2024. They president of Association of
a true taste of the Philippines, sal by Rhea Sycip; and cocktail are led by Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez (5th from right) and Victorias City Chief Executives of Negros Oc-
especially the flavors of Bacolod by Kalel Demetrio. Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez (left). ( PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NEGROS OCCIDENTAL/FACEBOOK)
cidental, said. ■

Dine and Unwind:.. Loans and other..

29 and culinary delights search commissioned by Booking. **Research was commis- 25 Much like health specify which of these require
such as Awaji beef and com and conducted among a sam- sioned by Booking.com and in- status, more financial immediate medical attention.
Awaji rice. visitors will ple of adults who plan to travel for dependently conducted among a information is better. Advice from a pharmacist or a
experience the perfect mix of business or leisure in the next 12- sample of adults who took a lei- Much like prescription drugs, doctor is readily available.
food, fun and history. 24 months. In total, 27,730 re- sure trip with an overnight stay financial contracts are compli- The same should apply to
Fairfield by Marriott Hyogo spondents across 33 countries and in the last 12 months, plan to cated and risky. financial products. Consumer
Awaji Higashiura provides a territories were polled (including travel in 2024, and are involved Consumers need to know decisions need to be easy at
comfortable and modern stay 1008 from Argentina, 1012 from in trip planning. The sample is basic financial information to precisely the time when stress
on the scenic Awaji Island, Australia, 505 from Austria, comprised of 32,300 respondents compare apples to apples. At levels are at their highest.
right by the sea. This hotel of- 1001 from Belgium, 1002 from across 32 markets (2,000 from the grocery store, consumers The total cost to the consumer
fers well-appointed rooms with Brazil, 1009 from Canada, 1009 USA, 800 from Canada, 1,800 can easily identify nutritional of a loan or other financial prod-
contemporary amenities, ensur- from China, 1002 from Colom- from Mexico, 800 from Colom- content, basic production in- uct should be transparent and
ing a relaxing experience for bia, 508 from Croatia, 504 from bia, 1,800 from Brazil, 800 from formation and price per unit, easily comparable. There would
guests. Its convenient location Denmark, 1011 from France, Argentina, 1,800 from Australia, so comparison shopping is be considerable benefit from
near some local restaurants 1011 from Germany, 1016 from 500 from New Zealand, 800 from easy. There are no surprises at clear information about appro-
such as Kaisen Ryori Uoshige Hong Kong, 1004 from India, Spain, 800 from Italy, 1,800 the checkout. priate product use, side effects
and Awaji Shokudo makes it an 510 from Ireland, 504 from Is- from France, 1,800 from UK, Nutrition labels offer con- — especially those that require
ideal base for exploring the lo- rael, 1014 from Italy, 1004 from 1,800 from Germany, 800 from sumers basic information to immediate financial attention —
cal seafood dishes of the island, Japan, 1009 from Mexico, 1014 Netherlands, 500 from Denmark, make informed food choices. and where to go to get help.
which are all focused around from The Netherlands, 1015 from 500 from Sweden, 400 from Cro- An “organic” designation or If we are serious about fi-
the fresh catches of the day. New Zealand, 500 from Portugal, atia, 800 from Switzerland, 800 a notation about whether a nancial health, we need a poli-
With its welcoming atmosphere 502 from Singapore, 1010 from from Belgium, 800 from Ireland, product came from a nut-free cy with front-of-contract label-
and attentive service, the Fair- South Korea, 1009 from Spain, 800 from Portugal, 1,800 from facility offer important details. ling standards inclusive of side
field by Marriott Hyogo Awaji 502 from Sweden, 507 from India, 800 from China, 500 from Meat labels provide safe han- effects and easy access to unbi-
Higashiura adds to the expe- Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, Hong Kong, 800 from Thailand, dling instructions. ased advice. ■
rience and is perfect for both 1003 from Thailand, 502 from 800 from Singapore, 500 from At the pharmacy, drug pack-
leisure and business travelers the UAE, 1007 from the UK, 1005 Taiwan, 800 from Vietnam, 800 aging and labels include cau- This article first appeared on
seeking a peaceful retreat. ■ from the US and 1007 from Viet- from South Korea, 1,800 from tions and instructions for ap- Policy Options and is repub-
nam). Respondents completed an Japan, 500 from UAE) surveyed propriate use, raise awareness lished here under a Creative
*Travel Predictions 2024 re- online survey in July 2023. in January or February 2024. of possible side effects and Commons license.
www.canadianinquirer.net
 BIZClass FRIDAY DECEMBER
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October 1, 2020
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