Aldo Dinelli Houston's Top Celebrity Jeweler Talks Diamonds

Dec 11, 2019

HOUSTON - Dec. 10, 2019 - PRLog -- Securing an interview with Hollywood Jeweler, Aldo Dinelli, "The New 6 Million Dollar Man" was not an easy task. Dinelli has a known preference for avoiding the press, and in true Hollywood fashion, he was the jeweler everyone was clamoring to talk to during the much publicized Drew Brees lawsuit that could have lasting future repercussions on how fancy colored diamonds can be marketed as "investments."

Earlier this year Aldo Dinelli, founder of ICON Jewels expertise played a pivotal role within a team of professionals which resulted in a successful $6M dollar winning judgement in Mr. Brees' favor.

Speaking with a couple of jewelers on the famed Madison Ave. and 47th street, insiders best described him as an unconventional, non apologetic, straightforward professional, with  a refined eye and an intact sense of integrity.

Dinelli's father and older brother come from the oil and gas engineering and exploration industry. This might have been an easy fit for this overachiever, but instead he chose a different pipeline. His first opportunity opened at Cartier NYC, in 1990,  where he was under the wing of both Arnaud Bamberger, Executive Chairman of Cartier Worldwide, and Ralph Destino, the Chairman-Emeritus of Cartier, Inc.  It was here that Dinelli  showed his natural ability, tenacity, and dedication, and that in turn awarded him the respect and mentorship of the 'Quiet Legend' in the industry, Mr. Louis Glick, as well as other famed, powerful jewelers and "Godfathers" in this industry like Simon Critchell, and William Goldberg.

Aldo Dinelli went on to create his own company, ICON Jewels, with his partner and wife Cynthia Pinot Dinelli.

Dinelli has a history of collaborating with many jewelry houses, style icons, Hollywood stars and famed musical performers, as well as mega athletes. Throughout his career as a jeweler he has courted Presidential Families, including the late George H. W. Bush / 41st President Of The United States.

When I asked why he loved this business so much he simply smiled and said, "When you buy a jewel for yourself or a loved one, don't we all want something just as unique and rare as the person wearing it? I believe that investment grade rarity is where our clients should position themselves when acquiring something special for a loved one.  If the technical aspect and financial quotient of a fine piece doesn't synergistic-ally make sense, I simply wont present it to my clients. Jewelry is a form of expression, no different than love, food, and art...It is an expression of who we are; what we are…the very foundation of this business is based on the act of giving, and expressions of love."

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***@iconjewelsusa.com


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The consumer-friendly Energy Star program survived Trump. What about other efficiency efforts?
The consumer-friendly Energy Star program survived Trump. What about other efficiency efforts?
Feb 8, 2026

Energy Star, the program that helps guide consumers to more energy-efficient appliances and electronics, has survived the Trump administration\'s plans to cut it. The program received sufficient support in Congress that it was included in budget legislation signed this week by President Donald Trump. Environmentalists and advocates called it good news for consumers and the planet, but raised concerns over how the program will be administered under a shrunken Environmental Protection Agency. But Energy Star is not the only energy efficiency program targeted by Trump. Here\'s what to know about the outlook for that program and others. What\'s Trump got against energy efficiency? Trump has regularly said efficiency standards for household items and appliances — many strengthened under predecessor Joe Biden\'s administration — rob consumers of choice and add unnecessary costs. His first executive order upon returning to office last year outlined a vision to "unleash American energy." In it, he emphasized safeguarding "the American people\'s freedom to choose" everything from light bulbs to gas stoves to water heaters and shower heads. At the same time Trump has targeted efficiency, he\'s also sought to block renewable energy development such as wind and solar and boosted fossil fuels that contribute to warming, including gas, oil and coal. What happened with Energy Star? Energy Star is a voluntary, decades-old EPA-run program that informs consumers about how efficient home appliances and electronics are, including dishwashers, washing machines and more. The idea is to simultaneously reduce emissions and save consumers money on their energy bills. The Department of Energy develops product testing procedures for Energy Star, while the EPA sets performance levels and ensures the certification label is reliable for consumers. It also applies to new homes, commercial buildings and plants. EPA says the program has saved 4 billion metric tonnes (4.41 billion tons) of planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions since launching in 1992, and can save households an average of $450 annually. Last May, EPA drafted plans to eliminate Energy Star as part of a broader agency reorganization that targeted air pollution regulation efforts and other critical environmental functions. The agency said the reorganization would deliver "organizational improvements to the personnel structure" to benefit the American people. Many groups advocated against the potential closure of the program, citing its benefits to consumers. The legislation Trump signed this week allocated $33 million for the program, slightly more than 2024\'s $32.1 million, according to the Congressional Research Service, but it continues the general trend of declining funding for the program over the past decade. The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, among many industry groups to advocate for keeping the program in letters sent to Congress, said it was "very pleased" to see the funding continue. Some concerns remain Experts say uncertainty around the program likely didn\'t impact consumers much over the past year. They note that manufacturers can\'t change their product lines overnight. Amanda Smith, a senior scientist at climate research organization Project Drawdown, said the uncertainty may have had a bigger effect on EPA\'s ability to administer the program. She was among experts wondering how staffing cuts may affect EPA\'s work. EPA spokesperson Brigit Hirsch didn\'t address a question about that, saying in a statement only that EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin "will follow the law as enacted by Congress." What other energy efficiency rules are still in limbo? The Department of Energy has proposed rolling back, weakening or revoking 17 other minimum efficiency standards for energy and water conservation as part of 47 broader deregulatory actions. Those are standards that must be met for the products to be sold legally. That includes air cleaners, ovens, dehumidifiers, portable air conditioners, washers, dishwashers, faucets and many more items that have been in place and updated over the years. "These are standards that are quietly saving people money on their utility bills year after year in a way that most consumers never notice," said Andrew deLaski, executive director of the Appliance Standards Awareness Project. "The striking thing is that consumers have a huge array of choices in appliances in the market today. Repealing these standards would simply increase cost. It just doesn\'t make sense." Changing efficiency measures also drives up energy demand at a time when utilities are already challenged to meet the growing needs of data centers, electrification and more. While Congress has supported Energy Star and these separate appliance standards, it also has advanced legislation that would give the president new powers to roll back rules. Manufacturers are likely to continue making efficient consumer appliances, but weakened rules could negatively impact the U.S. marketplace. "The problem for U.S. manufacturers is that overseas competitors making inefficient products elsewhere could now flood the U.S. market," deLaski said, noting that would undercut American manufacturers. (AP)

Slain policewoman's sister defends brother-in-law
Slain policewoman's sister defends brother-in-law
Feb 8, 2026

The sister of the slain policewoman, Police Senior Master Sergeant Diane Marie Mollenido, defended her brother-in-law, saying he was not involved in the crime.  Daisie Gabres, sister of Diane Marie, 38, and aunt of eight-year-old John Ysmael, posted on Facebook to clear Police Senior Master Sergeant John Mollenido\'s name.  Gabres earlier filed a motion to withdraw her complaint against John.  Diane Marie and John Ysmael, both Taguig residents, were found dead after they went missing on Jan. 16. John reported them missing to the Taguig police on Jan. 19.  Diane Marie\'s body was found in Pulilan, Bulacan on Jan. 24 while John Ysmael\'s body was found on Jan. 29 in Victoria, Tarlac.  "Bakit namin tinutulongan si John? Dahil gusto namin ng hustisya. Gusto namin na yung totong taong gumawa sa ate ko ang managot at hindi s John Mollenido (Why are we helping John? Because we want justice. We want the real person who did this to my sister to be held accountable and not John Mollenido)," she said.  **media[77659,77660]** During a press conference on Feb. 3, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said John, who is under restrictive custody, is not yet off the hook in the case.  The Philippine National Police identified four suspects in the case: Pia Katrina Panganiban, former policeman Christian Suarez Panganiban, Gil Valdemoro Dy Jr. and Maribel Suarez Panganiban. They are facing charges for robbery with homicide and theft.  Police investigations showed the victims were killed in connection with a vehicle transaction.  **media[77662,77666,77663]** Remulla cited John\'s hasty decision to cremate his wife\'s remains and his media interview in which he showed no emotions.   “Una, pinilit niya na macremate agad iyong asawa niya with yung clothes ha, yung clothes na namatay siya. E pulis siya, dapat alam niya iyon. Pangalawa, nung interview parang wala siyang remorse. Imagine mo anak mo namatay, ni hindi ka naiiyak. Wala kang…parang balewala sa kanya. So we are digging further into the possible angle na kasali yung asawa niya (First, he insisted that his wife be cremated immediately with the clothes, the clothes she died in. He\'s a police officer, he should know that. Second, during the interview, he seemed to have no remorse. Imagine your child dying, you didn\'t even cry. You didn\'t have...it seemed like he didn\'t care. So we are digging further into the possible angle that her husband was involved),” said Remulla.  But Gabres said it was not John’s decision to cremate the remains of Diane Marie.  "Bakit sinisisi siya sa pag papa cremate agad? Hindi po niya desisyon ang pagpapa cremate agad (Why is he being blamed for cremating her immediately? It was not his decision to cremate her immediately)," said Gabres.  She said they were told that Diane Marie\'s remains should be cremated immediately as these were in an advanced stage of decomposition and were no longer fit for viewing.  "Ang sinabi sa amin ay kelangan na icremate agad dahil advance stage na ng decomposition at hindi na ito pwede for viewing. Napag desisyonan namin na sundin nalang kung ano sinasabi samin (We were told that she needed to be cremated immediately because it was in an advanced stage of decomposition and it was not fit for viewing. We decided to just follow what we were told),” she said.  She said it was their decision, including her sibling, to cremate the remains of Diane Marie.  “Ang pagpapa cremate ng damit ay desisyon namin kasama ang kapatid ko at wala kaming idea na pati ung mga gamit na kasama sa crime scene ay isinama din sa pag cremate (Cremating her clothes was our decision with my sister and we had no idea that even the items from the crime scene were included in the cremation),” she said.  She said before they arrived at the funeral home, they were told by the Taguig police not to touch the items belonging to Diane Marie and not include them in the cremation.  “Wala po ako sa tamang pag iisip noong oras na yon kaya kung ako tatanuningin kung isasama ang damit nya ay oo ang nasagot ko dahil akala ko ok lang ito. Kung alam ko lang na pati ung mga kumot kung sinabi lang nila skin sa tingin niyo na papayag ako? Papayag kami? Hindi! (I was not in my right mind at that time so when they asked me if I would include her clothes, I said yes because I thought it was okay. If I only knew even the blankets, if they just told me, do you think I would agree? Would we agree? No!),” she said.  Gabres said the police already had instructions to the funeral home even before they arrived.  She hopes that John will be given the chance to clear his name. John and Diane Marie have two other children: a four-year-old and a 15-year-old.  “Sana mabigyan ng pagkakataon na malinis ang pangalan niya ng hindi siya jinujudge agad ng tao dahil lang sa hindi niya pag iyak din. Kung my sobrang nasasaktan sa nangyare siya po. Sana matulongan natin siya, my mga anak pa po silang 15yrs old at 4yrs old, wala na po silang nanay sana naman. Kailangan po nila ng tatay ngayon (I hope they give him a chance to clear his name without people judging him immediately just because he didn\'t cry. If there is someone who is really hurting about what happened, it’s him. I hope we can help him, they still have children, 15 yrs old and 4yrs old, they don\'t have a mother anymore. They need a father now),” she said.  John attended the inurnment for the cremated remains of his estranged wife and son at Heritage Park in Taguig on Feb. 5.  **media[77661,77664]**

Palawan solon eyes House probe on travel tax collections usage
Palawan solon eyes House probe on travel tax collections usage
Feb 8, 2026

A ranking congressman is calling for a House inquiry on how travel tax collection--estimated to be worth P4 billion to P5 billion annually--have been utilized, particularly on tourism developing in the countryside. Palawan 3rd district Rep. Gil “KABARANGAYJR” Acosta, a vice chairman of the Committee on Tourism in the House of Representatives, called this an "important issue that must be looked into by Congress". Acosta made the call even as the House leadership--particularly Majority Leader Ilocos Norte 1st district Rep. Sandro Marcos--pushed tor legislation to abolish the travel tax, which had turned into a burden for Filipinos according to him. “Yes definitely [we have to review in Congress] kung saan napunta [ang travel tax collections], especially pre-pandemic kasi from 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 wala halos koleksyon in terms of palabas, so dapat natin balikan kung tama ba ’yung nagamit. Kung saan nagamit at kung ano ang naging epekto sa tourism Industry,” Acosta said in a news forum in Quezon City over the weekend. (Yes, definitely we need to review in Congress where the travel tax collections went, especially before the pandemic, because from 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 there was hardly any collection from outbound travel. So we should go back and check if the funds were used properly, where they were spent and what impact they had on the tourism industry.) Acosta said travel tax collections average ranged from P4 billion to P5 billion every year, with proceeds divided among the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the cultural sector. The Palawan solon said the inquiry should cover both pre-pandemic and post-pandemic periods to determine whether travel tax proceeds were properly spent and whether they translated into meaningful improvements for the tourism sector. He added that the issue also requires closer coordination among government agencies, citing delays and bottlenecks in infrastructure projects. “’Yan po yung dapat pag-usapan ng mga inter-agency ng ating gobyerno dahil nasabi n’yo na din po ang DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) minsan nga po ang project natitigil kasi ‘yung DPWH project walang ECC (Environmental Compliance Certificate), Dapat bago mo i-propose sa DPWH kinunan mo muna ng ECC so dapat kung gobyerno ka ikaw una dapat ang sumunod sa mga patakaran ng ating pamahalaan,” he said. (That’s what should be discussed among the government’s inter-agency groups, because as you mentioned, sometimes DPWH projects are halted due to the lack of an ECC. Before proposing a project to DPWH, you should first secure an ECC. So if you’re the government, you should be the first to follow the rules of our own administration.) “In all fairness naman po sa DOT (Department of Tourism), I could only speak of my province, meron hong dalawa, one in the north and one in the south. Maganda naman po, maganda, but sa probinsya ko ho iyon. Dalawa,” he said, referring to tourism comfort room facilities in Palawan," he added. (In all fairness to the DOT, I can only speak for my province, there are two facilities, one in the north and one in the south. They’re good, they’re well-built, but that’s in my province. Two,” he said, referring to tourism comfort room facilities in Palawan.) While acknowledging the efforts of the DOT, Acosta stressed that the scale of infrastructure support remains inadequate for a province consistently promoted as a top island destination. “Kasi ho dapat talagang mag-invest ng malaki. For example kung kayo pupunta sa aming lalawigan, pupunta kayo ng Puerto Princesa, ang akala ng tao ang El Nido ay 30 minutes away. But it’s not. It’s almost four hours. Kung mabagal-bagal mga five hours,” the House leader explained. (Significant investment is really needed. For example, if you visit our province and go to Puerto Princesa, people often think El Nido is just 30 minutes away. But it’s not. It’s almost four hours. If you travel slowly, it can even take five hours.) For Acosta, the gap between Palawan’s tourism potential and the actual state of its facilities underscores the need to revisit how travel tax funds are allocated and whether they are reaching destinations that need them most. Acosta said the tourism panel intends to look closely at these issues to ensure that revenues collected in the name of tourism genuinely support infrastructure, accessibility and long-term growth of the industry. He has expressed support for Marcos\' move to scrap travel tax, embodied in the latter\'s House Bill (HB) No. 7443. Under HB No.7443, the travel tax imposed under Presidential Decree (PD) No.1183 and related provisions of the Tourism Act of 2009 would be repealed, ending the collection of charges that now reach P2,700 for first-class passengers and P1,620 for economy travelers. Marcos says the levy has outlived its purpose and now works against economic recovery, mobility and regional competitiveness.

Alex Eala bags P2.6 million in Abu Dhabi
Alex Eala bags P2.6 million in Abu Dhabi
Feb 8, 2026

Tennis Alex Eala still pocketed a good sum of prize money after her exit in the recently concluded WTA 500 Abu Dhabi Open in the UAE. The 20-year-old Eala had promising runs as she advanced to the quarterfinals and semis of singles and doubles events, respectively, where she bagged a combined amount of $45,859 (P2,683,314). Eala, currently No. 45 in the WTA rankings, earned her bigger pay in the singles of $35,000 (around P2 million) after she bowed to eventual runner-up in No. 2 seed Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova in the quarters, 3-6, 3-6. She took home P635,429 in the doubles – half of the $21,720 semis purse which she shared the same amount with her Indonesian partner Janice Tjen. The two Southeast Asian stars succumbed in the semis to Slovakia’s Tereza Mihalíková and Great Britain’s Olivia Nicholls, 4-6, 2-6. But the journey in the Middle East extends for Eala as she struts her wares in two WTA 1000 competitions. These are the Qatar Open in Doha (Feb. 8-14), and the Dubai Tennis Championships (Feb. 15-21) which both attracted high-ranking players in the women\'s circuit. In Qatar, Eala is already assured of winning $18,300 (P1 million) in Round of 64 where she seeks a redemption win over Czech teen ace Tereza Valentova. Eala and Valentová first crossed paths in the opening round of the WTA 250 Japan Open, where the latter came away with a 6-1, 6-2 victory.

Defense seeks to add 78 evidence items ahead of Duterte ICC confirmation hearing
Defense seeks to add 78 evidence items ahead of Duterte ICC confirmation hearing
Feb 8, 2026

Lawyers for former president Rodrigo Duterte have asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to allow them to add 78 items to their evidence list for the confirmation of charges hearing later this month, arguing the materials are necessary to challenge the prosecution’s case. In a filing dated Feb. 5, the defense, led by counsel Nicholas Kaufman, sought leave from Pre-Trial Chamber I to supplement its List of Evidence under Article 61(6)(c) of the Rome Statute and Rule 121(6), saying the additional materials are directly relevant to issues to be addressed at the hearing. The defense said the request followed the prosecution’s disclosure of 1,242 additional items after the original hearing schedule was postponed, many of which were identified as potentially exculpatory or relevant to trial preparation. According to the filing, 24 of the proposed defense items were disclosed only after the original deadline for listing evidence, while the remainder became significant after reviewing the newly disclosed materials together. Lawyers argued that adding the evidence is necessary to properly contest the prosecution’s allegations at the confirmation stage, where judges determine whether there are substantial grounds to believe the accused committed the crimes charged. No prejudice to prosecution The defense maintained that the request does not seek to change procedural deadlines but simply to include materials that should be admissible unless doing so causes unfair prejudice. They said no such prejudice exists because the motion was filed within the required timeframe ahead of the hearing, the number of items is limited, and the prosecution is already familiar with the materials. The filing also noted that refusal to admit the evidence would unfairly prejudice Duterte’s ability to present his case, while approval would not disadvantage other parties. Relief sought The defense asked the Chamber to authorize inclusion of the 78 items listed in a confidential annex, describing them as necessary for effective participation in the confirmation proceedings. The confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled to begin on Feb. 23, where judges will assess whether the case should proceed to trial. Duterte is accused of crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s anti-drug campaign, allegations he has denied. The confirmation hearing will determine whether prosecutors have presented sufficient evidence to establish substantial grounds to believe he committed the crimes charged, after which the case may proceed to trial if charges are confirmed.

Pakistan arrests 4 suspects in mosque bombing that killed 31 in the capital
Pakistan arrests 4 suspects in mosque bombing that killed 31 in the capital
Feb 8, 2026

ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistani security forces raided multiple locations and arrested four suspects, including the alleged mastermind, behind a suicide bombing at a Shiite mosque on the outskirts of the capital that killed 31 people, the interior minister said Saturday. **media[77653]** The announcement by Mohsin Naqvi came a day after a regional affiliate of the Islamic State group, identifying itself as Islamic State in Pakistan, claimed responsibility in a statement carried by its Amaq News Agency. The statement said the attacker on Friday opened fire on security guards who tried to stop him at the main gate before detonating his explosive vest after reaching the mosque\'s inner gate. The IS group suggested it viewed the Pakistani Shiites as legitimate targets, calling them a "human reservoir" that provided recruits to Shiite militias fighting IS in Syria. Friday\'s mosque bombing that also wounded 169 people was the deadliest in Islamabad since a 2008 suicide bombing at the Marriott Hotel that killed 63 people and wounded more than 250. In November, a suicide bomber struck outside a court in the capital, killing 12 people. Pakistan arrests suspects linked to attack Naqvi described the suspected mastermind of the bombing as an Afghan linked to IS. He alleged the attack was planned and the bomber trained in Afghanistan with financial backing from India— claims for which he provided no immediate evidence. There was no immediate comment from New Delhi and Kabul. Naqvi also alleged that several militant groups were operating from the Afghan territory to launch attacks against Pakistan and urged the international community to take notice, warning that instability could spread beyond the region. Addressing public concerns about security lapses, he said, "If one blast happens, 99 others are being foiled as well." Funerals for the victims Earlier, more than 2,000 grief-stricken mourners gathered as coffins of those killed were brought to the same mosque for funerals of about a dozen victims, joined by Shiite community leaders and senior government officials. Funerals of other victims were to be held in their hometowns. IS is a Sunni group that has targeted Pakistan\'s Shiite minority in the past, apparently seeking to stoke sectarian divisions in the majority Sunni country. In 2022, it claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing that struck a Shiite Muslim mosque in Pakistan\'s northwestern city of Peshawar, killing at least 56 and wounding 194. Pakistan\'s Defense Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif told reporters Friday that the attack signaled that Pakistan-based militants operating from Afghanistan could strike even in the capital. His remarks drew a sharp response from Afghanistan\'s Taliban government. In a statement, Afghanistan\'s Defense Ministry condemned the mosque attack in Islamabad but said the Pakistani defense minister had "irresponsibly" linked it to Afghanistan. Pakistan has frequently accused Afghanistan, where the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, of harboring militants, including members of the Pakistani Taliban. Kabul denies the accusations. Attack draws international condemnation The attack drew condemnation from the wider international community, including the United States, Russia and the European Union. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he was grateful for the messages of sympathy and support received "from across the globe" following what he called the "heart-wrenching suicide attack in Islamabad." He said international support remained critical to Pakistan\'s counterterrorism efforts and vowed the perpetrators would be brought to justice. Although Pakistan\'s capital has seen relatively few attacks compared with other regions, the country has experienced a recent rise in militant violence. Much of it has been blamed on Balochseparatists and the Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, which is a separate group but allied with Afghanistan\'s Taliban.

Ohio man charged with threatening to kill Vice President JD Vance and possessing child abuse files
Ohio man charged with threatening to kill Vice President JD Vance and possessing child abuse files
Feb 8, 2026

An Ohio man has been charged with threatening to kill Vice President JD Vance while he was visiting his home state last month. But the man\'s lawyer said his health makes it unlikely he would have been able to carry out the threat. **media[77652]** In addition to the charge for threatening Vance, prosecutors also charged Shannon Mathre with possessing digital files depicting child sexual abuse that were discovered during the investigation. That second charge carries a much stiffer potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison. The charge related to the threats could lead to a maximum five-year sentence. Lawyer Neil McElroy said that Mathre\'s health challenges would have been apparent to anyone in the courtroom Friday when he pleaded not guilty to the charges, so he doesn\'t think the threat charge makes sense. McElroy said he couldn\'t comment on the charge related to the possession of child sexual abuse files because prosecutors haven\'t yet provided any details about that at this early stage of the case. "Anyone that spends any time in a room with Mr. Mathre or has any knowledge of his condition -- physical condition, mental condition -- can see that it\'s a farce," McElroy said. He declined to go into detail about Mathre\'s health challenges, but the lawyer said that Mathre has "some mental disabilities and a variety of other conditions." Still, the Justice Department and Secret Service took the threat very seriously after Mathre said "I am going to find out where he (the vice president) is going to be and use my M14 automatic gun and kill him." The indictment filed in court doesn\'t offer many details about the threat or the images he allegedly possessed, but the Secret Service said the investigation went beyond the online threat to also examine Mathre\'s actions and behavior. The 33-year-old Toledo man\'s Samsung phone was seized on Jan. 21 as part of the investigation. "Our attorneys are vigorously prosecuting this disgusting threat against Vice President Vance," Attorney General Pamela Bondi said in a statement. "You can hide behind a screen, but you cannot hide from this Department of Justice." David M. Toepfer, who is the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, said "hostile and violent threats made against the Vice President, or any other public official, will not be tolerated in our district." Another Ohio man was charged last month after officials say he broke windows at Vance\'s Ohio home not long after the Vice President returned to Washington following a weekend visit to Ohio. The Secret Service arrested William D. DeFoor, 26, as he ran from Vance\'s home on Jan. 5. Vance is currently in Milan, Italy, attending the start of the Winter Olympic Games. The Secret Service agent in charge of the Toledo office, Matthew Schierloh, said there should be zero tolerance for any kind of political violence in this country. "The safety and security of those we protect is paramount to everything we do," Schierloh said. "Thanks to vigilant members of the public and the tenacious work of our special agents, a comprehensive joint investigation was conducted, resulting in the arrest of a defendant for making threats against the Vice President." Mathre is doing back in court on Wednesday for a hearing to determine whether he will remain in custody as the case moves forward.

Gaza's Rafah border crossing has reopened but few people get through
Gaza's Rafah border crossing has reopened but few people get through
Feb 8, 2026

KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — When the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt finally reopened this week, Palestinian officials heralded it as a "window of hope" after two years of war as a fragile ceasefire deal moves forward. **media[77651]** But that hope has been sidetracked by disagreements over who should be allowed through, hourslong delays and Palestinian travelers\' reports of being handcuffed and interrogated by Israeli soldiers. Far fewer people than expected have crossed in both directions. Restrictions negotiated by Israeli, Egyptian, Palestinian and international officials meant that only 50 people would be allowed to return to Gaza each day and 50 medical patients — along with two companions for each — would be allowed to leave. But over the first four days of operations, just 36 Palestinians requiring medical care were allowed to leave for Egypt, plus 62 companions, according to United Nations data. Palestinian officials say nearly 20,000 people in Gaza are seeking to leave for medical care that they say is not available in the war-shattered territory. Amid confusion around the reopening, the Rafah crossing was closed Friday and Saturday. Hours of questioning The Rafah crossing is a lifeline for Gaza, providing the only link to the outside world not controlled by Israel. Israel seized it in May 2024, though traffic through the crossing was heavily restricted even before that. Several women who managed to return to Gaza after its reopening recounted to The Associated Press harsh treatment by Israeli authorities and an Israeli-backed Palestinian armed group, Abu Shabab. A European Union mission and Palestinian officials run the border crossing, and Israel has its screening facility some distance away. Rana al-Louh, anxious to return two years after fleeing to Egypt with her wounded sister, said Israeli screeners asked multiple times why she wanted to go back to Gaza during questioning that lasted more than six hours. She said she was blindfolded and handcuffed, an allegation made by others. "I told them I returned to Palestine because my husband and kids are there," al-Louh said. Interrogators told her Gaza belonged to Israel and that "the war would return, that Hamas won\'t give up its weapons. I told him I didn\'t care, I wanted to return." Asked about such reports, Israel\'s military replied that "no incidents of inappropriate conduct, mistreatment, apprehensions or confiscation of property by the Israeli security establishment are known." The Shin Bet intelligence agency and COGAT, the Israeli military body that handles Palestinian civilian affairs and coordinates the crossings, did not respond to questions about the allegations. The long questioning Wednesday delayed the return to Gaza of al-Louh and others until nearly 2 a.m. Thursday. Later that day, U.N. human rights officials noted a "consistent pattern of ill-treatment, abuse and humiliation by Israeli military forces." "After two years of utter devastation, being able to return to their families and what remains of their homes in safety and dignity is the bare minimum," Ajith Sunghay, the agency\'s human rights chief for the occupied Palestinian territories, said in a statement. Numbers below targets Officials who negotiated the Rafah reopening were clear that the early days of operation would be a pilot. If successful, the number of people crossing could increase. Challenges quickly emerged. On the first day, Monday, Israeli officials said 71 patients and companions were approved to leave Gaza, with 46 Palestinians approved to enter. Inside Gaza, however, organizers with the World Health Organization were able to arrange transportation for only 12 people that day, so other patients stayed behind, according to a person briefed on the operations who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media. Israeli officials insisted that no Palestinians would be allowed to enter Gaza until all the departures were complete. Then they said that since only 12 people had left Gaza, only 12 could enter, leaving the rest to wait on the Egyptian side of the border overnight, according to the person briefed on the operations. Crossings picked up on the second day, when 40 people were allowed to leave Gaza and 40 to enter. But delays mounted as many returning travelers had more luggage than set out in the agreement reached by negotiators and items that were forbidden, including cigarettes and water and other liquids like perfume. Each traveler is allowed to carry one mobile phone and a small amount of money if they submit a declaration 24 hours ahead of travel. Each time a Palestinian was admitted to Egypt, Israeli authorities allowed one more into Gaza, drawing out the process. The problems continued Wednesday and Thursday, with the numbers allowed to cross declining. The bus carrying Wednesday\'s returnees from the crossing did not reach its drop-off location in Gaza until 1:40 a.m. Thursday. Still, some Palestinians said they were grateful to have made the journey. As Siham Omran\'s return to Gaza stretched into early Thursday, she steadied herself with thoughts of her children and husband, whom she had not seen for 20 months. She said she was exhausted, and stunned by Gaza\'s devastation. "This is a journey of suffering. Being away from home is difficult," she said. "Thank God we have returned to our country, our homes, and our homeland." Now she shares a tent with 15 family members, using her blouse for a pillow.

'ASAP' keeps the celebration going with All2GETHER KAPAMILYA: A Grand Pasalamat' Part 2
'ASAP' keeps the celebration going with All2GETHER KAPAMILYA: A Grand Pasalamat' Part 2
Feb 8, 2026

The party continues this Sunday (Feb. 8) as Kapamilya stars and rock bands treat solid Kapamilyas to a spectacular musical celebration in “ASAP Presents: ALL2GETHER KAPAMILYA: A Grand Pasasalamat” Part 2, airing live on Kapamilya Channel sa ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live, and iWant. **media[77649]** Setting the stage for the celebration is the grand opening number led by Donny Pangilinan, Belle Mariano, Darren, Kyle Echarri, Alexa Ilacad, AC Bonifacio, Gela Atayde, Jameson Blake, Jeremy Glinoga, and Michelle Garcia, with “PBB Gen 11” housemates Fyang Smith, Kai Montinola, JM Ibarra, Jarren Garcia, Kolette Madelo, Rain Celmar, Jas Dudley-Scales, and Binsoy Namoca, as well as “PBB Celebrity Collab” housemates Brent Manalo, Ralph de Leon, River Joseph, Klarisse De Guzman, Esnyr Ranollo, and Bianca de Vera. Blooms should not miss the high-intensity performance of BINI with their hits “Salamin,” “Shagidi,” and “Bikini.” Gear up for more stunning performances from Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, Belle, and Anne Curtis as they sing with Imago. Witness powerful collaborations from Gary Valenciano and Ogie Alcasid with Soapdish, and Jolina Magdangal and Jona with 6Cyclemind. Meanwhile, Mayonnaise hypes up the fans with the hit songs “Jopay” and “Tayo Na Lang Dalawa.” Catch a heartfelt number from Moira, Klarisse, and Darren, followed by an amazing performance from Martin Nievera, Erik Santos, Kyle, and Neocolours. The concert continues with performances by Zsa Zsa Padilla, Angeline Quinto, Yeng Constantino, Jason Dy, and Freestyle. Joining the party is BGYO as they perform “Divine,” while Marko Rudio, Darren, and Kyle take on “Gento” and “Dam.” This Sunday, the hosts are Robi Domingo, Belle, Alexa, Kyle, and Darren. “ASAP” now airs on Kapamilya Channel on ALLTV2. Turn on your digital black box, press the scan button on your remote control, and look for ALLTV2. (Robert Requintina)

US gave Ukraine and Russia a June deadline to reach agreement to end war, Zelenskyy says
US gave Ukraine and Russia a June deadline to reach agreement to end war, Zelenskyy says
Feb 8, 2026

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — The U.S. has given Ukraine and Russia a June deadline to reach a deal to end the nearly four‑year war, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told reporters, as Russian strikes on energy infrastructure forced nuclear power plants to cut output on Saturday. If the June deadline is not met, the Trump administration will likely put pressure on both sides to meet it, he added. "The Americans are proposing the parties end the war by the beginning of this summer and will probably put pressure on the parties precisely according to this schedule," Zelenskyy said, speaking to reporters on Friday. Zelenskyy\'s comments were embargoed until Saturday morning. "And they say that they want to do everything by June. And they will do everything to end the war. And they want a clear schedule of all events," he said. He said the U.S. proposed holding the next round of trilateral talks next week in their country for the first time, likely in Miami, Zelenskyy said. "We confirmed our participation," he added. Zelenskyy said Russia presented the U.S. with a $12 trillion economic proposal — which he dubbed the "Dmitriev package" after Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev. Bilateral economic deals with the U.S. form part of the broader negotiating process. Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure continued with over 400 drones and about 40 missiles launched overnight Saturday, Zelenskyy said in a post on X. Targets included the energy grid, generation facilities and distribution networks. Ukrenergo, the state energy transmission operator, said the attack was the second mass strike on energy infrastructure since the start of the year, forcing nuclear power plants to reduce output. Eight facilities in eight regions came under attack, it said in a statement. "As a result of missile strikes on key high-voltage substations that ensured the output of nuclear power units, all nuclear power plants in the territories under control were forced to reduce their load," the statement said. It said the power deficit in the country has increased "significantly" as a result of the attacks forcing an extension of hourly power outages in all regions of Ukraine. The latest deadline follows U.S.-brokered trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi that produced no breakthrough as the warring parties cling to mutually exclusive demands. Russia is pressing Ukraine to withdraw from the Donbas, where fighting remains intense — a condition Kyiv says it will never accept. "Difficult issues remained difficult. Ukraine once again confirmed its positions on the Donbas issue. \'We stand where we stand\' is the fairest and most reliable model for a ceasefire today, in our opinion," Zelenskyy said. He reiterated that the most challenging topics would be reserved for a trilateral meeting between leaders. Zelenskyy said no common ground was reached on managing the Russian‑held Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and expressed skepticism about a U.S. proposal to turn the Donbas region, coveted by Russia, into a free economic zone as a compromise. "I do not know whether this can be implemented, because when we talked about a free economic zone, we had different views on it," he said. He said in the last round of talks the negotiators discussed how a ceasefire would be technically monitored. He added that the U.S. has reaffirmed it would play a role in that process. Repeated Russian aerial assaults have in recent months focused on Ukraine\'s power grid, causing blackouts and disrupting the heating and water supply for families during a bitterly cold winter, putting more pressure on Kyiv. Zelenskyy said the U.S. again proposed a ceasefire banning strikes on energy infrastructure. Ukraine is ready to observe such a pause if Russia commits; but he added that when Moscow previously agreed to a one-week pause suggested by the U.S., it was violated after just four days. **media[70164]**

Israel says Netanyahu will meet with Trump on Wednesday about Iran talks
Israel says Netanyahu will meet with Trump on Wednesday about Iran talks
Feb 8, 2026

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday about American talks with Iran, his office said Saturday, while Iran\'s foreign minister threatened U.S. military bases in the region a day after the discussions. **media[77647]** "The prime minister believes that all negotiations must include limiting the ballistic missiles, and ending support for the Iranian axis," Netanyahu\'s office said in a brief statement, referring to Tehran\'s support for militant groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in the Palestinian territories. Trump and Netanyahu last met in December. There was no immediate White House comment. The U.S. and the Islamic Republic of Iran held indirect talks on Friday in Oman that appeared to return to the starting point on how to approach discussions over Tehran\'s nuclear program. Trump called the talks "very good" and said more were planned for early next week. Washington was represented by Middle East special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump\'s son-in-law. Trump has repeatedly threatened to use force to compel Iran to reach a deal on its nuclear program after sending the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and other warships to the region amid Tehran\'s crackdown on nationwide protests that killed thousands. Gulf Arab nations fear an attack could spark a regional war, with memories fresh of the 12-day Israel-Iran war in June. For the first time in negotiations with Iran, the U.S. on Friday brought its top military commander in the Middle East to the table. U.S. Navy Adm. Brad Cooper, head of the military\'s Central Command, then visited the USS Abraham Lincoln on Saturday with Witkoff and Kushner, the command said in a statement. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told journalists Friday that "nuclear talks and the resolution of the main issues must take place in a calm atmosphere, without tension and without threats." He said that diplomats would return to their capitals, signaling that this round of negotiations was over. On Saturday, Araghchi told the Al Jazeera satellite news network that if the U.S. attacks Iran, his country doesn\'t have the ability to strike the U.S. "and therefore has to attack or retaliate against U.S. bases in the region." He said there is "very, very deep distrust" after what happened during the previous talks, when the U.S. bombed Iranian nuclear sites during last year\'s Israel-Iran war. Araghchi also said the "missile issue" and other defense matters are "in no way negotiable, neither now nor at any time in the future." Tehran has maintained that these talks will be only on its nuclear program. However, Al Jazeera reported that diplomats from Egypt, Turkey and Qatar offered Iran a proposal in which Tehran would halt enrichment for three years, send its highly enriched uranium out of the country and pledge to "not initiate the use of ballistic missiles." U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Wednesday that the talks needed to include all those issues. Israel, a close U.S. ally, believes Iran is pursuing a nuclear weapon and wants its program scrapped, though Iran has insisted that its atomic plans are for peaceful purposes. Israel also wants a halt to Iran\'s ballistic missile program and its support for militant groups in the region. Araghchi, speaking at a forum in Qatar on Saturday, accused Israel of destabilizing the region, saying that it "breaches sovereignties, it assassinates official dignitaries, it conducts terrorist operations, it expands its reach in multiple theaters." He criticized Israel\'s treatment of Palestinians and called for "comprehensive and targeted sanctions against Israel, including an immediate arms embargo." **media[77415]**

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi hopes for big win as polls open in national elections
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi hopes for big win as polls open in national elections
Feb 8, 2026

TOKYO (AP) — Polls opened Sunday in parliamentary elections that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi hopes will give her struggling party a big enough win to push through an ambitious conservative political agenda. **media[77646]** Takaichi is hugely popular, but the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, which has governed Japan for most of the last seven decades, is not. She called Sunday\'s snap elections hoping to turn that around. She wants to make progress on a right-wing agenda that aims to boost Japan\'s economy and military capabilities as tensions grow with China. She also nurtures ties with her crucial U.S. ally, and a sometimes unpredictable President Donald Trump. The ultraconservative Takaichi, who took office as Japan\'s first female leader in October, pledged to "work, work, work," and her style, which is seen as both playful and tough, has resonated with younger fans. The latest surveys indicated a landslide win in the lower house for the LDP. The opposition, despite the formation of a new centrist alliance and a rising far-right, is seen as too splintered to be a real challenger. Takaichi is betting that her LDP party, together with its new partner, the Japan Innovation Party, will secure a majority in the 465-seat lower house, the more powerful of Japan\'s two-chamber parliament. Recent surveys by major Japanese newspapers show a possibility that Takaichi\'s party could win a simple majority on its own while her coalition could win as many as 300 seats — a big jump from a thin majority it held since a 2024 election loss . If the LDP fails to win a majority, "I will step down," she said. A big win by Takaichi\'s coalition could mean a significant shift to the right in Japan\'s security, immigration and other policies. Japan has recently seen far-right populists gain ground, such as the anti-globalist, surging nationalist party Sanseito. Takaichi has pledged to revise security and defense policies by December to bolster Japan\'s offensive military capabilities, lifting a ban on weapons exports and moving further away from the country\'s postwar pacifist principles. She has been pushing for tougher policies on foreigners, anti-espionage and other measures that resonate with a far-right audience but ones that experts say could undermine civil rights. Takaichi also wants to increase defense spending in response to Trump\'s pressure on Japan to loosen its purse strings. In her campaign speeches, Takaichi stayed away from contentious issues and focused on the economy, tougher immigration and measures on foreigners, including tougher requirements for foreign property owners and a cap on foreign residents. Record snowfall in northern Japan over the last few weeks, which blocked roads and was blamed for dozens of deaths nationwide, could hinder voting or delay vote counting in hard-hit areas.

AFP steps up regional security role as PAF holds air patrols with US, PN joins India fleet review
AFP steps up regional security role as PAF holds air patrols with US, PN joins India fleet review
Feb 8, 2026

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expanded its regional defense footprint as the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and Philippine Navy (PN) carried out separate but strategic activities with key partners in the Indo-Pacific region, military officials said on Sunday, Feb. 8. The PAF conducted high-profile bilateral bomber air patrol and live drop exercise with the United States Pacific Air Forces (US PACAF) from Feb. 2 to 6. The activities took place at multiple locations including Colonel Ernesto Rabina Air Base in Tarlac City and airspace over the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and Luzon Strait. The exercise was supported by the Special Operations Command Pacific and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco said the PAF deployed its FA-50PH fighter aircraft while the US sent its B-52 bomber aircraft during the exercises. The drills focused on airspace coordination, command-and-control integration, and joint operational response, she noted. “Through these combined air activities and multi-domain support, the PAF continued to strengthen defense partnerships and reinforce its capability to safeguard national airspace and uphold sovereignty,” she said. **media[77645]** Meanwhile, at the Naval Base Heracleo Alano in Cavite City, the PN sent off its contingent for its first-ever participation in the International Fleet Review 2026 and the Multilateral Naval Exercise MILAN 2026 in India from Feb. 15 to 25. Ships from 19 countries and approximately 4,000 delegates would be participating in the activities hosted by the Indian Navy. Rear Admiral Peter Jempsun V. De Guzman, acting commander of the Naval Defense Command, led the send-off ceremony ahead of the contingent’s sail to Visakhapatnam. The PN will be represented by BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG06), the lead ship of the Malvar-class guided missile frigate. The ship is under the command of Captain Paul Michael P. Hechanova PN(GSC), who will serve as commander of Naval Task Group 80.5, the unit that will take part in the fleet review and naval exercises. De Guzman said the International Fleet Review 2026 provides a platform for participating navies to exchange views and strengthen cooperation in support of peace, stability, and development in the Indo-Pacific region. Meanwhile, he noted that MILAN 2026 is a multilateral naval exercise designed to enhance interoperability and operational coordination among partner navies. “The Philippine Navy’s participation in the International Fleet Review and Multilateral Exercise MILAN 2026 reflects the Navy’s steadfast commitment to international cooperation, maritime peace, and regional stability,” De Guzman shared.

Thailand votes in early election with 3 main parties vying for power
Thailand votes in early election with 3 main parties vying for power
Feb 8, 2026

BANGKOK (AP) — Voters in Thailand head to the polls on Sunday for an early general election seen as a three-way race among competing visions of progressive, populist and old-fashioned patronage politics. **media[77643]** The battle for support from 53 million registered voters comes against a backdrop of slow economic growth and heightened nationalist sentiment. While more than 50 parties are contesting the polls, only three — the People\'s Party, Bhumjaithai, and Pheu Thai — have the nationwide organization and popularity to gain a winning mandate. A simple majority of the 500 elected lawmakers selects the next prime minister. No outright winner expected Local polls consistently project that no single party will gain a majority, necessitating the formation of a coalition government. Although the progressive People\'s Party is seen as favored to win a plurality, its reformist politics aren\'t shared by its leading rivals, which may freeze it out by joining forces to form a government. The People\'s Party, led by Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, is the successor to the Move Forward Party, which won the most House seats in 2023, but was blocked from forming a government by conservative lawmakers and then forced to dissolve. Reformist party softens its pitch Its platform continues to promise sweeping reforms of the military, police and judiciary, appealing to youth and urban voters. Legal constraints have led it to set aside demands for reform of a law that metes out harsh penalties for criticism of the monarchy, while putting new emphasis on economic issues. Softening its politics risks weakening its core support, already at risk because the last election had positioned it squarely as the alternative to nine previous years of military-led government, a situation it can\'t fruitfully exploit this time. At the same time, with the army\'s reputation burnished by the surge of patriotism that emerged during last year\'s border clashes with Cambodia, its positions critical of the military can be a political liability, said Napon Jatusripitak, director of the Center for Politics and Geopolitics at Thailand Future, a Bangkok-based think tank. The Bhumjaithai Party, headed by incumbent Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, is seen as the main defender and preferred choice of the royalist-military establishment. Anutin has been prime minister only since last September, after serving in the Cabinet of former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was forced out of office for an ethics violation regarding mishandling relations with Cambodia. He dissolved parliament in December to call a new election when he was threatened with a no-confidence vote. Subsequent border clashes with Cambodia allowed Anutin to recast himself as a wartime leader after his popularity initially slipped because of floods and financial scandals. His campaign focuses on national security and economic stimulus. Bhumjaithai, seen as the likeliest party to form the next government, benefits from an electoral strategy employing old-style patronage politics and a machine skilled at grassroots organizing in the vote-rich northeast. Thaksin\'s political machine The Pheu Thai Party, the latest political vehicle for billionaire former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, trades on populist policies innovated by its predecessor, the Thai Rak Thai party, which held power from 2001 until 2006, when it was ousted by a military coup. Thaksin-backed parties staged repeated electoral comebacks, only to be ousted by conservative-leaning courts and state watchdog agencies. It softened its politics enough by the 2023 election to be returned to power after being judged by the previously hostile royalist-military establishment to an acceptable alternative to the more progressive Move Forward party. The conservative court system rounded on it anyway — ousting two of its prime ministers over two years and ordering Thaksin imprisoned on old charges. The party now campaigns on economic revival and populist pledges like cash handouts, nominating Thaksin\'s nephew, Yodchanan Wongsawat, as its lead candidate for prime minister. Sunday\'s voting includes a referendum asking voters whether Thailand should replace its 2017 military-drafted constitution. The vote isn\'t on a proposed draft, but rather to decide whether to authorize parliament to begin a formal drafting process, which would require many further steps before coming to fruition. Pro-democracy groups view a new charter as a critical step toward reducing the influence of unelected institutions such as the military and judiciary, while conservatives warn that it could cause instability.

OCD: ‘Basyang’ kills 12; cleanup, damage checks underway
OCD: ‘Basyang’ kills 12; cleanup, damage checks underway
Feb 8, 2026

The death toll from Tropical Cyclone “Basyang” climbed to 12 on Sunday, Feb. 8, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) disclosed, as floodwaters began to recede, paving the way for clearing operations and damage assessments in affected areas. Most of the fatalities were reported in Northern Mindanao (Region 10) with nine. A victim previously listed missing in a landslide was eventually found dead while one additional death in the region was being verified. Earlier, the OCD said a family of four was buried in a landslide in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental while three other fatalities were recorded in Iligan City. Meanwhile, three people perished in Caraga (Region 13): two victims drowned in Surigao del Sur while one person also drowned in Agusan del Norte. OCD spokesperson Junie Castillo stated that the figures were undergoing a rigorous validation process. "These are all for verification and validation by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Cluster for the Dead and Missing,” he noted. The flooding that submerged dozens of villages has started to ease. In Caraga and Northern Mindanao, 30 flooded barangays reported that waters have already subsided. “In Caraga and Northern Mindanao, there are reportedly no more flooded areas. Most of the areas earlier reported as flooded have already subsided since yesterday,” Castillo said. He added that teams are now conducting clearing operations and rapid damage and needs assessment to determine the extent of damage left by Basyang. 467K affected Meanwhile, the storm has affected 131,961 families or 467,242 persons across 850 barangays in Western Visayas (Region 6), Negros Island Region (NIR), Central Visayas (Region 7), Eastern Visayas (Region i), Davao (Region 11), and Caraga. Displacement remained high with 5,818 families or 16,297 individuals staying in 337 evacuation centers. Another 7,167 families or 25,822 individuals were receiving aid outside of the temporary shelters. Effects Basyang also left 445 houses damaged in Caraga. Out of these, 38 were totally destroyed while 407 were partially damaged. Power supply has been restored to nine out of 15 affected municipalities in Caraga. On the other hand, transportation remains hampered in specific areas as five road sections and two bridges in Caraga were still not passable. In the maritime sector, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said all seaports were already operational and there were no more stranded passengers or vessels. Relief ops The government has provided P8.3 million in assistance to affected communities in Western Visayas, NIR, Caraga, and Davao. “In terms of food and non-food items, these needs have been addressed because both national government agencies and local government units had prepositioned supplies, especially from the Department of Social Welfare and Development,” Castillo said. He confirmed that there are currently no additional requests for augmentation from local government units. Meanwhile, the OCD advised displaced residents to remain patient before returning home. “To our fellow citizens in affected areas, if you have evacuated, please wait for an advisory from your local government on when it is safe to return to your communities,” Castillo said. He assured those staying in evacuation centers that government agencies are “on standby to address your needs.” Citizens wishing to help are encouraged to coordinate through the OCD or local government units to ensure proper distribution of aid.

Chevron, partners release 146 sea turtles into open waters as a result of coastal cleanup
Chevron, partners release 146 sea turtles into open waters as a result of coastal cleanup
Feb 8, 2026

Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of Caltex fuels and lubricants, and several partner organizations released 146 Olive Ridley sea turtle hatchlings into open waters. This update comes nearly five months after its last Coastal Cleanup Activity, which had volunteers collect trash along the shoreline of the brand’s Batangas terminal to create an ideal nesting ground for this turtle species. Last September, CPI’s Coastal Cleanup rallied 250 volunteers across multiple organizations, including SRDC, CJI General Services Inc., 5G Security Inc. (5GS), the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA), Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), and Barangay Danglaya. Together, they collected 232 sacks of trash, preparing the shoreline for the turtles’ nesting season. Following this, CPI has protected the shores along the Batangas Terminal to facilitate the sea turtles’ nesting and hatching. It has also worked with the CENRO, San Pascual MENRO, Barangay Danglayan, and PCGA in conservation training and protecting the turtles during their mating season. **media[77640]** Why Chevron Has Committed to Protecting Olive Ridley Sea Turtles Although the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle is the most abundant sea turtle species, the International Union for Conservation of Nature has listed it as an animal at high risk of extinction. The species’ global population has declined due to illegal trade and the consumption of turtle eggs. Plastic pollution has also been a major threat to this species, as the turtles can ingest and choke on microplastics in the ocean. Coastal development also reduces the space available for nesting. Through the Coastal Cleanup, CPI not only clears trash from nearby shorelines, but it also plays a pivotal role in boosting the species’ local population. The Impact of Chevron’s Coastal Cleanups More than just a top fuel provider, Chevron has long been committed to building biodiversity in its global markets. In the Philippines, CPI has been organizing coastal cleanups at the Batangas terminal since 2007. From then on, the local sea turtle population has increased steadily, with more than 4,000 hatchings as of January 2026—a clear indicator of Chevron’s positive impact on Batangas’ marine ecosystem. CPI also regularly organizes smaller cleanups to prevent coastal trash from piling up. It also plans to continue working with local government units, community organizations, and private partners on future environmental initiatives. “The success of our yearly coastal cleanups shows that environmental stewardship doesn’t happen overnight. It needs to be cultivated through unwavering commitment and collaboration with like-minded partners,” said Atty. Raissa Bautista, CPI Lead Corporate Affairs Advisor. “We hope to continue working with our volunteer, LGU, and NGO partners in 2026 as we expand our sustainability projects to the Filipino communities that need them the most.” Chevron’s Coastal Cleanup is just one of the brand’s many volunteer efforts around the Philippines.

Shear line to bring rains over Southern Luzon, parts of Visayas; ‘amihan’ affects rest of Luzon — PAGASA
Shear line to bring rains over Southern Luzon, parts of Visayas; ‘amihan’ affects rest of Luzon — PAGASA
Feb 8, 2026

A shear line affecting Southern Luzon and the northeast monsoon (amihan) influencing the rest of Luzon will bring cloudy skies and scattered rains over large parts of the country on Sunday, February 8, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). In its latest public weather forecast, PAGASA weather specialist Veronica Torres said satellite images show a band of clouds within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) caused by a shear line. **media[77638]** “Narito ang ating pinaka-latest na satellite image kung saan nakikita natin yung linya ng kaulapan sa loob ng ating Philippine Area of Responsibility — ito ang tinatawag nating shear line o yung salubunguan ng malamig na hangin galing northeast at mainit na hangin galing silangan (Here is our latest satellite image showing the cloud line within the Philippine Area of Responsibility — this is what we call the shear line, or the meeting point of cold air from the northeast and warm air from the east),” Torres said. The shear line may bring periods of moderate to heavy rainfall over Southern Luzon and some areas of the Visayas today, she added. “Nakikita natin na itong shear line ay posibleng magdala ng mga pag-ulan mostly sa areas ng Southern Luzon at ilang bahagi ng Visayas ngayong araw (We can see that this shear line may bring rainfall mostly over areas in Southern Luzon and some parts of the Visayas today),” Torres explained. “Northeast monsoon o amihan ay makakaapekto sa Northern Luzon at magdadala rin ng mga pag-ulan sa ilang bahagi ng Kanlurang Luzon (The northeast monsoon, or amihan, will affect Northern Luzon and also bring rain to some parts of Western Luzon),” she added. Areas affected by shear line PAGASA said the shear line will cause cloudy skies with scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms over the following areas: Mimaropa, Bicol Region, Western Visayas, Aurora, Rizal, Laguna, Quezon, Northern Samar, and Eastern Samar. Residents in these areas are advised to remain alert for possible flash floods and landslides, especially in low-lying and mountainous locations, due to moderate to heavy rains. ‘Amihan’ brings rain to Luzon Meanwhile, PAGASA said the northeast monsoon continues to affect Northern and Central Luzon, bringing cloudy skies with rains over Metro Manila, Cagayan Valley, the Cordillera Administrative Region, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, and the remaining areas of Calabarzon. PAGASA warned that moderate to, at times, heavy rainfall in these areas may also trigger localized flooding or landslides. The rest of Luzon may experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains due to the “amihan,” with no significant weather impacts expected, PAGASA said. For the rest of the country, PAGASA said partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms caused by localized thunderstorms are expected. Severe thunderstorms may still result in flash floods or landslides in vulnerable areas, the state weather bureau added. No LPA or storm inside PAR PAGASA emphasized that no low-pressure area or tropical cyclone is currently being monitored inside the PAR. “Sa kasalukuyan naman, wala tayong namo-monitor na Low Pressure Area o bagyo sa loob ng PAR (At present, we are not monitoring any Low Pressure Area or tropical cyclone inside the PAR),” Torres said. PAGASA advised the public, particularly those in rain-affected regions, to stay updated with the latest weather advisories and take necessary precautions.

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