Maniolas

KING of Talk Boy Abunda is currently on a break with long-time partner Bong Quintana, weeks after the television host reportedly underwent surgery due to an undisclosed medical condition. In a photo reposted by the couple’s close friend, actress Gretchen Barretto, Abunda and Quintana were photograph along a white sand beach spending quality time with each other. “This photo of my dear friend, Boy Abunda with his loving long time partner Bong is simply pure joy. It is an answered prayer to see Boy back to his old healthy, energetic ways. You have been greatly missed, Boy,” Barretto said. In a separate Instagram post, Abunda’s then “Bandila” co-anchor Julius Babao also posted an update on the television host’s condition. Abunda’s personal assistant, Philip, said his boss is in good health. The television reportedly lost 20 pounds during his two-week hospital confinement. “He’s up and ready. We won’t be seeing him on TV anytime soon because he’s scheduled to leave for a vacation in a place where there’s sun and fresh air, and hopefully there’s moon too,” he said. “Seriously, he misses everybody but asking all of you to continuously pray for his speedy recovery,” he added. Abunda has already skipped several episodes of “Aquino & Abunda Tonight” and was not seen in the weekend showbiz talk show “The Buzz” for close to a month now. Showbiz sisters Alex and Toni Gonzaga replaced him and close friend, Kris Aquino, who was also sick last week, in several episodes of the daily Read More …

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Gregory L. Domingo presents the proposed DTI Budget for 2015 during the House Appropriations Committee hearing on Wednesday (Sept. 3, 2014) at the House of Representatives in Batasan Hills, Quezon City. Also in photo (right) is Rep. Henry S. Oaminal (2nd Dist. Misamis Occidental), member of the committee. (MNS photo) MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III has ordered Cabinet officials to strictly monitor prices of basic commodities as the holiday season nears. Aquino particularly tasked officials to prevent unusual price movements due to “abuses that produce disadvantage and detriment to our populace,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said at a press briefing on Thursday. “As recently as last week, nagpatawag ang Pangulo ng pagpupulong. Mahigpit ang pag-uutos sa lahat ng mga ahensya, lalung-lalo na ang Department of Agriculture, na tutukan ‘yung supply and price situation, lalo na parating na ang holiday season at mag-i-increase ang demand,” the Palace official said. He added that Aquino specifically asked the Department of Agriculture (DA) to ensure that the supply and the prices of pork and chicken remain stable during the holidays. “The President continues to monitor this matter because it is of primary importance to the government,” Coloma said. The Palace official further said that the government is determined to go after those who cause artificial price spikes, such as the government officials and importer who supposedly colluded and caused garlic prices to spike a few months ago. “Malinaw naman na mayroon ngang naganap na Read More …

High garlic prices were due to collusion and cartel in the garlic industry. MANILA (Mabuhay) – High garlic prices were due to collusion and cartel in the garlic industry. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has completed its report on the garlic industry that saw big spikes in recent months – reaching a high of Php 287.06 per kilo in June 2014, which is a staggering 74% increase within a one-year period and more than 100% increase from average prices. Justice Secretary Leila M. De Lima on Wednesday said that as directed by President Benigno S. Aquino III and after a comprehensive evaluation, the main finding can be summarized into three major points: there was no shortage of supply and, in fact, there were more than adequate stocks of garlic; majority of the ‘import permits’ issued was granted to only one preferred group; and due to a cornering of supply, this group can dictate the high prices. The demand for garlic is largely supplied by imports such that 73% are imports and 27% are local produce. The importation process requires an “import permit” from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) of the Department of Agriculture (DA). “We also find that the formation of a National Garlic Action Team (NGAT) by the DA is unnecessary, unhelpful and actually contributed to the problem,” De Lima said. “We are recommending its (NGAT) abolition and the establishment of a fair and transparent system that will allow competition in the garlic industry consistent with the dictates of Read More …

The latest Kia Sorento was presented in South Korea before making its European debut at the Paris Motor Show in October. ©Kia (Relaxnews) – At the Paris Motor Show in October, Kia will stage the European premiere of its third-generation Sorento premium SUV. Recently unveiled in South Korea, the new model offers a more refined style and a quieter ride than the outgoing version. The front of the new Sorento stands out for its elongated, wrap-around headlights, larger fog lights and oversized ‘tiger nose’ grille, which resembles the one seen on Kia’s 2013 Cross GT concept. On the inside, the cargo capacity has been expanded from 515 to 605 liters when the seats are folded down. There is also a brand new storage compartment built directly into the floor of the trunk. Even more than in the past, the current trend in the premium SUV segment is one towards increasing luxury and refinement, as seen in the latest Volvo XC90, which will also be on display in Paris. The latest Sorento is no exception to the rule, particularly on the interior, with its sleek instrument panel and details in leather and other high-end materials. In Europe, clients will have a choice of a monochrome or two-tone interior (Saturn Black or Saturn Black and Stone), with fabric or leather seats. A number of optional features will be available in certain markets, such as a parking assistant with a 360° monitor and four cameras, or a smart electronic tailgate that can be opened Read More …

The Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. is giving the beauty queens the best training to win the international pageants.