by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | electric power, infrastructure, waste management, water management, water supply
MANILA, Philippines – Manila Water has successfully finished upgrading six key facilities aimed at improving its round-the-clock water supply services for clients in Metro Manila’s East Zone and Rizal. These enhancements were made mainly to address potential increases in usage as well as anticipated power disruptions.
Pumping stations are essential for ensuring continuous water supply to consumers in Metro Manila and Rizal.
Acknowledging this fact, Manila Water has concentrated efforts on fine-tuning these facilities to guarantee their superior performance.
The concessionaire for the Eastern area has enhanced the electricity provision at its Balara Pumping Stations 1 and 2 located in Quezon City.
Installing three intelligent power meters has ensured consistent and non-stop energy supply to these facilities.
These power-saving meters are incorporated into the current Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) along with the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, guaranteeing backup and dependability in electricity distribution.
The enhanced power supply units enable better and quicker management of the pumping systems, cutting down on energy usage and decreasing downtime.
At the Modesta Pumping Station located in San Mateo, Rizal, an investment of P7.6 million has been allocated for the installation of a 300-horsepower horizontally split casing pump along with its accompanying motor.
The upgrade has considerably improved the station’s efficiency, allowing it to more effectively cater to both present and expected needs at the Silangan Reservoir starting from Q4 of 2024.
In an effort to enhance energy reliability, the San Juan Pumping Station 1 located in Quezon City has received a significant P128.6 million update for its main electric systems.
This project encompasses the setup of new 1,750-kilowatt generator units, refurbishment of the genset enclosure, enlargement of the fuel day tanks, and improvements to the automation system.
Moreover, the Cubao Pumping Stations Reliability Project brought about numerous vital improvements.
One major feature of this project involved swapping out the station’s 1.5-megavolt-ampere (MVA) transformer for a sturdier 2-MVA model.
This newly introduced transformer markedly enhances energy efficiency, minimizes power disruptions, and equips the facility to handle upcoming demand, thus guaranteeing a steady and robust water supply for the area.
The effective restoration and upgrade of the Makati Pumping Station have boosted operational efficiency, cut down on carbon emissions, and enhanced water delivery for residents of Makati City.
The upgrade costing Php 92.45 million included swapping out three 300-horsepower electric motors with six smaller horizontal split case pumps, optimizing area usage and guaranteeing consistent water flow.
“These improvements at our pumping stations are being made to accommodate the rising demand as our user community keeps expanding. Our aim is to maintain round-the-clock water supply for all our clients even as we broaden our services,” stated Jeric Sevilla, who leads the Communications Affairs Group at Manila Water.
Apart from enhancing water delivery, Manila Water has also significantly upgraded one of its water treatment facilities.
The firm has improved Balara Treatment Plant 2 through the rehabilitation of its drainage system, replacement of wastewater valves, and restoration of the filtering areas.
Finished in the third quarter of 2024, this ⚡₱37-million⚡ initiative led to a decrease in water loss by 0.20%, which equates to around 0.05 million liters daily.
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | community, controversies, government regulations, laws and regulations, news
In an unexpected turn of events, a federal judge has sided with
California
a pair arguing over instructions to demolish their magnificent, partly constructed cabin within
Montana
national park, enabling them to maintain the property as it is.
The partially constructed chasm belonging to John and Stacy Ambler, situated on a 2,300-square-foot plot close to McDonald Creek within Glacier National Park,
had faced potential dismantling after multiple inhabitants raised concerns with the Flathead Conservation District.
(FCD),
SFGate reported
.
Following numerous legal battles, Federal Judge Kathleen DeSoto made her decision in February siding with the San Diego couple. She stated that the Family Care Division (FCD) does not have authority over the property since it is situated inside a national park, which places it under federal jurisdiction.
Nevertheless, in the most recent development of this continuing struggle, both the FCD and Friends of Montana Streams and Rivers have lodged an appeal, contending that they possess grounds to overturn the judge’s ruling.
‘She stated that Flathead Conservation District bears the responsibility of safeguarding the natural resources within our jurisdiction,’ said Samantha Tappenbeck, a district resource conservationist, to SFGate.
‘Thus, the Flathead Conservation District Board of Supervisors opted to challenge the ruling in order to serve the residents within our district and due to their belief that several aspects could be appealed.’
The Amblers started constructing their three-story, verdant Montana house towards the end of 2022 and beginning of 2023. They built a concrete retaining wall down into the steambank and set stone foundations into the slope to create a deck area.
Nevertheless, the couple’s building project ignited local controversy, with people from the West Glacier region complaining that their house could be easily seen by both tourists visiting the park and nearby residents.
Flathead Beacon reported
.
The grievances drew the notice of the FCD, leading them to conduct an on-site examination at the Ambler residence.
After the examination, the district asserted that the pair had breached the state’s Natural Steambed and Land Preservation Act (NSLPA), commonly referred to as the 310 law.
They justified their decision because they thought the house had been built unlawfully, lacking all required permissions.
Law 310 mandates that any private person or organization planning activities in or close to a river that involves changing or modifying the bottom or nearby edges of a continuously flowing river must secure permission from the local conservation district, as stated by The Flathead Beacon.
Nevertheless, the pair assert that they received approval from the Flathead County’s Planning Office, stating that they had been informed they could proceed with ‘any activity on the property without limitations,’ since the land falls within an un-zoned region, as reported.
Hungry Horse News
.
The federal Park Service permitted the Amblers to hook up with the Apgar water and sewage systems.
Despite this, the District’s Board of Supervisors finally decided that the couple has to demolish their incomplete house and restore the steambed prior to April 1, 2024.
Nevertheless, the pair opted to file lawsuits in both state and federal courts, contending that the District overstepped its bounds.
The locals from California do not acknowledge the District’s authority over their land and assets since it falls within the boundaries of the national park and sits on an inholding—a piece of private land established before the park was created in 1910.
It is also claimed that the property is part of Apgar, a tiny, privately-owned community within the park established in 1908.
The District alleged that the Amblers were attempting to locate the ambiguous zone since they asserted that Montana holds no authority over the property due to it being within a national park, which enjoys federal protection. However, they simultaneously argued that the federal government cannot gain entry because the land is considered privately owned.
Nevertheless, the District asserted that both state and local regulations apply to private property, irrespective of its location, even within Glacier National Park.
However, the couple contended that when they transferred ownership of the land, Montana had granted the rights to the United States since it involved “ceding jurisdiction,” as stated by their attorney, Trent Baker, according to Hungry Horse News.
At the heart of the group’s case is the assertion that even though the property sits inside Glacier National Park, this positioning doesn’t free it from complying with Montana’s state regulations, notably the Montana Natural Streambed and Land Protection Act (NSLPA).
In contrast, the pair contended that the Steambed Act wasn’t enacted until 1976; hence, Montana’s state laws couldn’t be acknowledged at the federal level, as reported by SFGate.
The pair additionally mentioned that the national park should be responsible for overseeing private holdings within it, asserting that the FCD cannot independently reclaim authority over territories where the state of Montana had previously relinquished control to the United States, according to reports from the Flathead Beacon.
“The sole concern in this matter pertains to whether federal or state authority has jurisdiction over the Amblers’ estate,” Attorney Trent Baker stated in the summary judgment as reported by the source.
In DeSoto’s directive, she stated that the arguments ‘extend further than what was claimed solely in the complaint… asserting that FCD doesn’t have authority over the Ambler property, and that the Streambed Act isn’t applicable.’
To move forward with the appeals in court, lawyers from both groups need to file their briefs by May 28.
Officials from Glacier National Park had mentioned earlier that they were collaborating with attorneys from the US Department of the Interior to decide if they would participate in the lawsuit, as reported by SFGATE.
The Amblers did not promptly reply to SANGGRALOKA for comments.
Read more
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | community, controversies, government regulations, laws and regulations, news
In an unexpected turn of events, a federal judge has sided with
California
a pair engaged in an argument received instructions to demolish their magnificent, partially constructed cottage within
Montana
national park, enabling them to maintain the property as one piece.
The partially constructed chasm belonging to John and Stacy Ambler, situated on a 2,300-square-foot plot near McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park,
has faced potential demolition following multiple resident complaints submitted to the Flathead Conservation District
(FCD),
SFGate reported
.
Following multiple legal battles, Federal Judge Kathleen DeSoto sided with the San Diego couple in February, stating that the FCD does not have authority over the property since it is situated inside a national park, which comes under federal jurisdiction.
In the most recent development of this continuous struggle, both the FCD and Friends of Montana Streams and Rivers have lodged an appeal, asserting that their arguments could lead to overturning the judge’s ruling.
‘Samanta Tappenbeck, a district resource conservationist, stated to SFGate that Flathead Conservation District is legally obligated to safeguard the natural resources within its jurisdiction.’
‘Thus, the Flathead Conservation District Board of Supervisors opted to challenge the ruling in order to serve the interests of their district’s residents and due to the belief that several aspects were worth appealing.’
The Amblers started constructing their three-story, verdant Montana residence in late 2022 and early 2023. They built a concrete retaining wall along the steambank and set stone foundations into the slope to create a deck.
Nevertheless, the couple’s building initiative ignited local controversy, with people from the West Glacier region complaining that the house could be easily seen by both those visiting the park and their nearby neighbors.
Flathead Beacon reported
.
The grievances drew the notice of the FCD, leading them to conduct an on-site examination at the Ambler residence.
After the examination, the district asserted that the pair had breached the state’s Natural Steambed and Land Preservation Act (NSLPA), commonly referred to as the 310 law.
They justified their decision because they believed the house had been built unlawfully, lacking all required permissions.
According to the 310 law, any person or organization undertaking activities that involve altering or modifying the bed or adjacent banks of a continuously flowing stream must secure the necessary permissions from the local conservation district, as stated by the Flathead Beacon.
Nevertheless, the pair assert that they received approval from Flathead County’s Planning Office, which informed them that they had free rein over the property without any limitations since the land falls within an un-zoned region, as stated.
Hungry Horse News
.
The federal Park Service permitted the Amblers to hook up to the Apgar water and sewage systems.
Despite this, the District’s Board of Supervisors eventually decided that the couple has to demolish their partially constructed house and restore the steambed prior to April 1, 2024.
Nevertheless, the pair opted to file lawsuits in both state and federal courts, contending that the District had overstepped its bounds.
The locals from California do not recognize the authority of the District over their land and possessions since it falls within the boundaries of the national park and sits on an inholding—a piece of private land established before the park was created in 1910.
They assert that the property is part of Apgar, a tiny, privately-owned community within the park established in 1908.
The District alleged that the Amblers were attempting to navigate the ambiguous zone since they asserted that Montana lacks authority over the property due to its location within a national park, which enjoys federal protection. However, they simultaneously argued that federal entities do not have entry because the land is considered private property.
Nevertheless, the District asserted that both state and local regulations apply to private property, irrespective of its location, even within Glacier National Park.
Nevertheless, the couple maintained that Montana transferred the rights to the land to the U.S. when they relinquished ownership, with their attorney Trent Baker stating this was indicated by the phrase “cedes jurisdiction,” as reported by Hungry Horse News.
At the heart of the organization’s case is the assertion that even though the property is situated inside Glacier National Park, this placement does not absolve it from complying with Montana’s state regulations, notably the Montana Natural Streambed and Land Protection Act (NSLPA).
In contrast, the pair contended that the Steambed Act wasn’t enacted until 1976; thus, Montana’s state laws couldn’t be acknowledged at a federal level, as reported by SFGate.
The pair additionally mentioned that the national park should be responsible for managing private inholdings, asserting that the FCD cannot independently reclaim authority over territories where the state of Montana had previously relinquished control to the United States, as reported by the Flathead Beacon.
The sole concern in this matter pertains to whether federal or state authorities have jurisdiction over the Amblers’ estate, as stated by their lawyer, Trent Baker, in thesummary judgment, reports the source.
In DeSoto’s directive, she stated that the arguments exceeded the boundaries of the single claim presented in the complaint. Specifically, she mentioned that these points assert FCD does not have jurisdiction over the Ambler property and that the Streambed Act is not applicable.
In order for the appeals to continue in court, lawyers from both entities need to file their briefs by May 28.
Officials from Glacier National Park stated earlier that they were collaborating with lawyers from the US Department of the Interior to decide if they would participate in the lawsuit, according to SFGATE.
“The Amblers” did not promptly reply to SANGGRALOKA for commentary.
Read more
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | controversies, government, politics, politics and government, politics and law
New Delhi [India], March 27 (ANI): The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu
MK Stalin
On Thursday, they welcomed Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao’s announcement after the state assembly passed a resolution regarding the proposed measures.
delimitation
and mentioned its aim to maintain justice, fairness, and the federal ethos.
In response to a tweet from the Telangana Chief Minister, Stalin mentioned the Joint Action Committee meeting that took place in Chennai earlier this month and stated, “We won’t allow anyone to unfairly reshape India’s future.”
“Resolved in Chennai, implemented in Hyderabad! The honorable Chief Minister of Telangana, Shri Revanth Anumula Garu, has turned words into action by presenting and securing approval for a significant resolution in the #Telangana State Legislature. This demands #FairDelimitation to ensure justice, equality, and the essence of federalism. Building upon the example set by Tamil Nadu, this move bolsters the unified demand against any efforts threatening the stability of our democratic system,” as shared by Stalin on X.
“This is merely the start. As the second #JointActionCommittee meeting is scheduled to occur in Hyderabad, additional states will join in. No one will be allowed to unjustly reshape India’s future without resistance,” he stated.
In his tweet, Revanth Reddy mentioned the resolution adopted by the state legislature.
“As the head of the Telangana Legislative Assembly, we adopted a resolution today urging the Central government not to undertake any actions that infringe upon the political dignity and rightful privileges of our citizens,” he stated.
“Residents of Telangana and people from various southern Indian states stand together to safeguard our rights and ensure that no discriminatory or partial delimitation occurs, as this could severely affect the most economically productive regions of the nation. We will resist every effort aimed at stripping us of our rights. Today marked a victory in our initial confrontation. Though the upcoming battles may be lengthy, we remain confident of ultimate triumph,” he concluded.
The Telangana Legislative Assembly passed a resolution on Thursday voicing deep concern about the approaching issue of
delimitation
exercise, emphasizing “the absence of clear communication” with important stakeholders.
The motion proposed by the Chief Minister advocated for a just and comprehensive method in carrying out the process.
delimitation
proceeding, advocating for comprehensive discussions with state administrations, political entities, and all relevant participants.
The House hereby conveys significant apprehension regarding the approach taken towards the approaching issue.
delimitation
the resolution indicated that exercise is being planned without any clear consultations with the stakeholders.
“The House encourages that any
delimitation
The exercise must be conducted openly and following comprehensive discussions with all state governments, every political party, and various stakeholders. States that have successfully enforced the population control initiative advocated by the central government—and as a result have seen their demographic shares decrease—should not face penalties. Therefore, population shouldn’t be the only metric for evaluation.
delimitation
,” it added.
The resolution pointed out that the objective of the 42nd, 84th, and 87th constitutional amendments—which were designed to achieve nationwide population control—has not been completely fulfilled. Instead, it proposed maintaining the current limit on parliamentary constituencies but recommended redrawing their borders to improve representation for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and women.
“Therefore, while maintaining the current freeze on the number of parliamentary seats based on states, we can proceed with redrawing the boundaries of parliamentary constituencies. This would include increasing the representation of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) according to the most recent population data, along with reserving seats for women,” the resolution noted. (ANI)
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | golf, golf players, golfers, indian national news, sports
Phullar (Punjab), [India], March 27 (ANI):
Wasim Khan
Delhi recorded a final round score of four-under 67, bringing his weekly total to 10-under 203, which secured him his first victory in the tournament.
PGTI
NEXGEN’s
Phillaur Open
at the
Ranjitgarh Golf Club
in Phillaur, Punjab.
Rajesh Kumar Gautam from Lucknow (68) and Chandarjeet Yadav from Chandimandir (69) shared the position of joint runners-up with a cumulative score of eight-under-par 205.
Kurush Heerjee (71) from Jamshedpur, who led after the first night, finished the competition in a tie for fourth place with a score of seven-under 206, alongside Brashwarpal Singh (69) from Chandigarh, according to an announcement.
Thirty-four-year-old
Wasim Khan
(67-69-67) started the final day tied for third place, just a stroke behind the leader. He then proceeded to dominate the competition, carding seven birdies alongside a single bogey and a double-bogey throughout his impressive round of 67.
Wasim’s standout moment during his game on Thursday came from his exceptional iron play, which allowed him to position the ball within inches of the pin, setting up three birdies. Additionally, he demonstrated consistency with his putting, converting three birdie opportunities from distances between 10 to 12 feet.
Some misplaced drives on the 15th and 16th led to Wasim losing three strokes during this segment. Nonetheless, he finished strong by scoring a birdie on the 17th hole followed by a vital par on the final hole.
Khan claimed the winning check for INR 2,54,300, propelling him from 11th place to the runner-up position in 2025.
PGTI
The NEXGEN Order of Merit states that Wasim’s total earnings for the season have reached Rs 3,54,600.
Rajesh Kumar Gautam, who won in Gurugram and came second this week in Phillaur, now leads the NEXGEN Order of Merit with seasonal winnings totaling Rs 4,29,600.
Wasim stated, “I’m thrilled to secure my initial professional victory. Previously, I was a runner-up twice and nearly won before.”
PGTI
The Feeder tour in 2019. It was great to finish off the performance this time.
“I’ve maintained a solid form ever since the event in Kapurthala last week. Therefore, I chose to stick with the same strategy for this week’s game by aiming to maximize fairway and green hits, essentially playing percentage golf. My mentor and seasoned pro Shamim Khan provided invaluable guidance which greatly assisted me.” (ANI)
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | ghana, government, nigeria, politics, politics and government
On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu welcomed his Ghanaian counterpart, John Mahama, to his official residence located in the State House in Abuja.
This trip to Nigeria marks President Mahama’s inaugural official visit since assuming office on January 7, 2025.
It is anticipated that both leaders will concentrate on bolstering diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Ghana, particularly in enhancing collaboration in trade and security. They are also likely to address significant regional matters within the Economic Community of West African States.
Soon after securing victory in the December 2024 presidential polls, Tinubu traveled to Accra to meet with Mahama and extend his congratulations for Mahama’s ascension as Ghana’s president.
See photos below.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | actors and actresses, celebrities, celebrity gossip, entertainment, television
Actress and television scribe Ruth Jones is set to be bestowed with a special honor at the St David Awards ceremony.
Jones, hailing from Bridgend, will be presented with the First Minister’s Special Award on Thursday night for her achievements and for bringing global attention to Wales.
She gained recognition primarily for portraying the beloved character Nessa in the hit TV show Gavin and Stacey.
“She expressed that it holds great significance for her and conveyed deep feelings of honor. She also shared that she feels truly proud,” she stated.
Based on what Jones’ younger sister Maria said
,, she had been performing since her younger years.
She attended Porthcawl Comprehensive School, where she befriended Rob Brydon, who was also a cast member in “Gavin and Stacy” and was enrolled there as well. Afterward, she pursued her interest in drama at the University of Warwick.
Jones secured employment at SANGGRALOKAWales in television and radio comedy productions. Ruth was also part of the comedy sketch show Little Britain, where she played the character Myfanwy.
Later, she expanded her work into theater before securing a part in the ITV show Fat Friends.
It was present when she began collaborating with James Corden, and together they went on to produce three successful episodes of Gavin and Stacey in 2007.
The program was viewed by millions of people with the
The series finale turned into one of the highest-rated scripted television shows of the century.
After the tremendous success of “Gavin and Stacey,” Jones proceeded to take on a role in the comedy-drama series “Stella.”
When she isn’t starring in comedic roles, Jones likes to write and has penned four novels. Last September, she performed in “Sister Act” at the West End.
First Minister Eluned Morgan expressed her delight at celebrating the “significant achievement of Ruth Jones”.
“He highlighted the kindness and humor of the Welsh folk. It’s a privilege to count such great ability among us,” he remarked.
Now in its 12th year, the national Welsh awards will honor individuals from all over the nation for their contributions in fields such as volunteerism, heroism, entrepreneurship, and community service.
-
Corden and Jones set for reunion at Hay Festival
-
Gavin & Stacey draws in 19.1 million viewers.
-
What makes the Welsh population so fond of Gavin and Stacey?
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | entertainment, entertainment industry, music, music industry, news
An English-language version of
aespa
In 2024, “Whiplash” by ‘s will make its debut on Thursday, as announced by SM Entertainment.
The group of four will present this updated version for the initial time at
Billboard
In 2025, ‘s Women in Music event will occur in Los Angeles on Saturday. The ceremony aims to honor Aespa as the group of the year during this prestigious award show.
The English rendition of “Whiplash” will be featured in the band’s upcoming single album, alongside a techno house remix produced by DJ and music creator Steve Aoki.
In a shared Instagram post alongside aespa,
Billboard
praised the K-pop girl group for establishing fresh fashion trends.
Thanks to their bold style, [aespa] are establishing fresh trends while remaining authentic,
Billboard
It also cited Karina, who leads the team, stating that their objective was to achieve greater professionalism and authenticity.
“We’re genuine. Obviously, you should maintain professionalism and put forth your best image, but we also aim to reveal our less perfect aspects… We aren’t attempting to censor everything or overly disguise ourselves,” Karina stated.
Billboard
.
“Whiplash,” which serves as the lead single for aespa’s fifth extended play released last October, started at number 53 on Spotify’s global Top Songs Chart. This EP also marked the band’s fifth successive release to achieve over a million sales.
Recently, aespa concluded their global tour, which included 41 shows in 28 different cities, with a two-day performance in Seoul on March 16.
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | sports, tournaments
MANILA, Philippines — For the third consecutive time, Cignal and Criss Cross face off against each other for the top spot in Spikers’ Turf.
The defending champion Cignal and Criss Cross, the runner-up of the past two tournaments, earned their second straight win in the semifinal round after taking down separate foes on Wednesday at Rizal Memorial Coliseum to clinch a best-of-three finals duel for the 2025 Open Conference title.
The HD Spikers advanced to their eighth successive final, whereas the King Crunchers stayed undefeated after 12 matches and haven’t missed out on the championship round since entering the top-tier men’s volleyball league last year.
READ:
Criss Cross Stuns Cignal Again for Unblemished 8-0 Record on Spikers’ Turf: Criss Cross
In previous championship playoffs, Cignal has defeated Criss Cross twice. However, this time around, Criss Cross turned the tables, securing victory in their initial two encounters with authority.
Prior to their championship series starting on Wednesday at Philsports Arena, Cignal and Criss Cross face off in a decisive semi-final match on Sunday at the same location.
The undefeated Criss Cross received a boost as Japanese V.League player Marck Espejo made a return, aiding his home team in securing a spot in the finals through a decisive win against VNS-Laticrete with scores of 25-20, 25-15, and 25-11.
“I’m enthusiastic about facing Cignal once more because during their trip to Japan, we played an exhibition match with my Japanese club team. I will keep following Coach Tai (Bundit)’s system. I’ll strive to be a valuable supporting player and a supportive elder brother to my teammates,” stated Espejo in Filipino as he competes against his previous squad, Cignal.
READ:
CIGNAL triumphs in Spikers’ Turf Invitational, defeating CRISS CROSS
In his comeback match last Sunday after playing sparingly, Espejo exploded with 14 points from 10 spikes, two blocks, and two serves.
“I came from Japan maintaining my rhythm. The primary change for me has been adjusting to the weather and getting used to Coach Tai’s training approach, which differs from what we had back home,” explained the ex-league MVP, who landed here only on Saturday. “However, because of the intensity of his practice sessions, I managed to adapt swiftly.”
Espejo gets back together with his setter Ish Polvorosa, who maintains his strong performance with 13 outstanding sets along with scoring three points and making six digs.
Nico Almendras contributed 10 points, and the current MVP Jude Garcia scored an additional nine.
“I’m the one adapting to them since their rotation performed effectively during the elimination round. I wish to remain synchronized with them,” he stated.
At the same time, Cignal defeated Savouge with scores of 25-19, 25-20, and 25-18, as setter Owa Retamar directed the team’s well-coordinated assault, delivering an impressive 21 outstanding sets.
Steven Rotter led the HD Spikers with 13 points. The team captain, JP Bugaoan, along with Wendel Miguel, contributed nine and eight points each.
“Our squad performed exceptionally well. I’m grateful that our strategy, which we worked on for several days, proved successful,” stated Cignal coach Dexter Clamor in Filipino.
Savouge is not an easy adversary. During the elimination stage, they made Criss Cross go to a fifth set two times. They also pushed us to a fifth set in the second round, indicating that we shouldn’t underestimate them.
Mark Calado spearheaded Savouge with 11 points and 10 outstanding receptions. Giles Torres notched up eight points, whereas Shawie Caritativo contributed seven points, along with six superb digs and 11 receptions.
Savouge and VNS-Laticrete are set to face off for the bronze medal on Wednesday; however, they will first meet in a meaningless match on Sunday.
by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | automotive industry, cars, commerce, international economics, international trade
On Thursday, major global powers condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s significant tariffs imposed on imported cars and auto components, threatening countermeasures as trade disputes escalate and potential price increases loom ahead.
Germany, a major car exporter, called for strong action from the European Union, whereas Japan stated it will “examine every possible option.”
On Thursday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that the traditional partnership characterized by strong economic, defense, and military connections with Washington has ended. He also mentioned anticipating conversations with Trump within the coming days.
The 25 percent tariffs imposed by the U.S., set to begin on April 3 at 12:01 am (0401 GMT), will affect imported automobiles, light trucks, and car components.
Specialists caution about increased expenses for vehicles, with the Italian automotive company Ferrari announcing price hikes of up to 10 percent on numerous models sold in the U.S., effective next week.
The global stock market experienced a significant downturn, with major car manufacturers such as Toyota, Hyundai, and Mercedes leading the decline. On Wall Street, General Motors’ stocks dropped sharply, followed by declines in both Ford and Stellantis shares.
The French Finance Minister Eric Lombard stated that the sole solution for the European Union is to “impose higher duties on goods coming from America as a countermeasure.”
Carney, who previously described the tariffs as a “direct assault” on his nation, stated that he organized a gathering to explore various trade possibilities. Meanwhile, Mexico’s Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard mentioned that he aimed to secure “special consideration” for his country.
Trump intensified his warnings overnight, stating on social media that Canada and the EU might encounter “much higher” tariffs if they collaborated “to inflict economic damage upon the USA.”
Price surge
According to JPMorgan analysts, the tariffs imposed on vehicles and components might lead to an uptick in average car prices ranging from $4,000 to $5,300.
Approximately 82 percent of Ford’s U.S. sales come from vehicles made domestically, compared to Stellantis with 71 percent and General Motors with 53 percent.
The American Automotive Policy Council, which represents the major three car manufacturers, cautioned that tariffs should be imposed in a manner that “does not increase costs for customers” and maintains the sector’s competitive edge.
Brian Kingston, the president of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association, stated that these measures would result in increased expenses for both manufacturers and consumers, along with “an industry that is less competitive.”
Although Trump utilized emergency economic measures for previous tariffs, his automobile duties expanded upon an investigation concluded in 2019.
‘Cheaters’
Approximately fifty percent of vehicles purchased in the United States are domestically produced. When it comes to imported cars, roughly half originate from Mexico and Canada, while Japan, South Korea, and Germany remain key exporters as well.
The White House suggests that for American-manufactured vehicles, the typical domestic content probably hovers around 40 percent.
On Wednesday, top trade advisor Peter Navarro criticized “foreign trade cheats,” accusing them of transforming America’s manufacturing industry into a “low-wage assembly line for imported components.”
He targeted Germany and Japan for keeping the production of more valuable components within their own borders.
After reassuming the presidency in January, Trump has levied tariffs on goods imported from key trade allies such as Canada, Mexico, and China, along with a 25 percent tax on steel and aluminum products.
The newest tariffs build upon those previously imposed on vehicles.
However, the White House also noted that cars coming into the United States as part of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) could be eligible for a reduced tariff based on the percentage of American-made components they contain.
USMCA-compatible automotive components will stay exempt from tariffs as authorities set up a method to address their non-US origin materials.
The Mexican President, Claudia Sheinbaum, stated that imposing tariffs went against the North American trade agreement. However, she mentioned that Mexico would hold off on taking action until early April.
‘Devastating impact’
Ambiguity surrounding Trump’s trade strategies and concerns that these might prompt an economic decline have unsettled financial markets, coinciding with a drop in consumer confidence.
Trump has supported tariffs as a means to increase governmental income and rejuvenate American manufacturing.
Aiming at imported vehicles might put pressure on relationships with Washington’s partners, though.
“Wendy Cutler, who serves as the vice president at the Asia Society Policy Institute and previously worked as a US trade negotiator, stated that levying 25 percent duties on imported vehicles would severely affect numerous key trading allies of ours,” she explained.
In addition to cars, Trump is mulling over specific industry tariffs, which could include those on medicines, chips, and wood.
He has pledged a “Freedom Day” for April 2nd, during which he plans to introduce proportional tariffs aimed at various trade counterparts, designed to counteract what are considered unjust practices.
