Rising Tensions: Exploring the Potential for an Asian-Pacific NATO and the Role of the Philippines

In an era of shifting geopolitical dynamics and escalating tensions, the concept of an Asian-Pacific NATO has emerged as a topic of intense debate and speculation. Much like its transatlantic counterpart, NATO, this proposed alliance would aim to foster security, cooperation, and deterrence in the Asia-Pacific region. But could such a coalition truly materialize, and what role might the Philippines play in its formation?

Recent geopolitical developments have underscored the need for a unified security framework in the Asia-Pacific region. With China’s assertive behavior in the South China Sea and its growing military capabilities, many nations in the region are feeling increasingly vulnerable. In response, discussions have arisen about the possibility of creating an Asian-Pacific NATO to counterbalance China’s influence and ensure regional stability.

Central to the discussion is the strategic importance of the Philippines. Situated at the crossroads of maritime trade routes and boasting a crucial geostrategic location, the Philippines holds immense significance in any security architecture in the region. Its participation in an Asian-Pacific NATO would not only bolster the alliance’s capabilities but also provide a vital foothold in Southeast Asia.

Furthermore, Japan and South Korea, with their advanced economies and robust defense capabilities, are natural candidates for key roles within such an alliance. Their participation would not only lend credibility to the coalition but also contribute significantly to its military strength and deterrence capabilities.

Beyond East Asia, the involvement of traditional Western allies such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and France cannot be overlooked. These nations have longstanding security commitments in the Asia-Pacific region and would bring valuable expertise and resources to an Asian-Pacific NATO.

However, perhaps the most intriguing potential participant is India. As tensions with China continue to simmer along their disputed border, India has increasingly sought to strengthen its strategic partnerships with like-minded nations. Joining an Asian-Pacific NATO could offer India a platform to counterbalance China’s growing influence while solidifying its role as a regional power.

While the concept of an Asian-Pacific NATO is still in its infancy and faces numerous challenges and obstacles, the need for enhanced security cooperation in the region has never been more apparent. As China’s military presence and assertiveness continue to grow, the formation of such an alliance may represent a crucial step towards maintaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. And with the Philippines poised to play a pivotal role, the prospect of an Asian-Pacific NATO is more tantalizing than ever before.

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US doctors cure child born with HIV

In an unprecedented case, doctors in Mississippi believe they have “functionally cured” a toddler of an HIV infection.

Recent tests of a 2-year-old born premature with the disease show no detectable levels of the virus, according to the National Institutes of Health. Doctors credit early administration of antiretroviral therapy with curing the child, who shows no signs of the virus after a year off the drugs.

“Despite the fact that research has given us the tools to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV, many infants are unfortunately still born infected,” Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, director of National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said in a statement today. “With this case, it appears we may have not only a positive outcome for the particular child, but also a promising lead for additional research toward curing other children.”

The child was born in Mississippi in July 2010 to an HIV-infected mother who had received neither antiretroviral medication nor prenatal care. The infection was confirmed two days after birth and the child was immediately placed on a liquid antiretroviral treatment consisting of a combination of three anti-HIV drugs: zidovudine, lamivudine, and nevirapine.

Additional blood tests during the first child’s first three weeks of life also confirmed the presence of the virus. After nearly a month of treatment, the child’s viral load had decreased to less than 50 copies of HIV per milliliter of blood.

For reasons that scientists said were unclear, the antiretroviral treatment regimen was discontinued when the child was 18 months old. However, blood tests conducted last fall “revealed undetectable HIV levels (less than 20 copies/mL) and no HIV-specific antibodies,” researchers said.

Researchers said it was the first well-documented case of an infected child showing no signs of the disease in the absence of antiretroviral therapy. It’s only the second documented case of a person infected with the disease being cured. Timothy Ray Brown, 45, was cured of the disease after receiving a bone marrow stem cell transplant in 2007.

As promising as the results are, the doctors cautioned that additional research was necessary to determine whether the case can be replicated in clinical trials involving HIV-infected children.

“This case suggests that providing antiretroviral therapy within the very first few days of life to infants infected with HIV through their mothers via pregnancy or delivery may prevent HIV from establishing a reservoir, or hiding place, in their bodies and, therefore, achieve a cure for those children,” Dr. Deborah Persaud, associate professor of infectious diseases at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center in Baltimore.

Source: http://news.cnet.com

Titanic II ready to set sail in 2016

Clive Palmer, one of Australia’s wealthiest businessmen, has unveiled plans to build a modern replica of the historic Titanic cruise-liner, which he hopes will sail from England to New York in 2016. 

The ship, known as Titanic II, will have the same look and design as the original ship but with modern improvements like air conditioning and state-of-the-art life boats.

Palmer told reporters that around 40,000 people have already expressed interest in tickets to sail on the boat, the maiden voyage of which will imitate the route of the first Titanic, sailing from England to New York.

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It’s More Fun in the Philippines!

Filipinos and friends from all over the world feel energized by the new slogan of the Department of Tourism, which aims to invite tourists to visit the country.

Despite the controversies and criticisms we discussed in my column last Wednesday, many more kababayans are fired up to be the country’s best sales people, sharing why they believe it is really more fun in the Philippines!

Here are some of their testimonials:

“It’s more fun in the Philippines because the people are honest and friendly. In general, they may be one of the poorest, but would give the shirt off their back to a complete stranger. That is true hospitality!” — David Kudransky, California

“It’s more fun in the Philippines [because] you get more bang for your bucks!” — Rapha Elle RN

“Life …is simply more fun in the Philippines! Smiles in the Philippines are cheaper than any place in the world because we’re a bunch of easy to please and love to please people.” — Dr. Valerie de Leon, Millbrae Smiles California

“It’s more fun in the Philippines because of the good weather we have plus the beautiful beaches and warm welcoming faces of the Filipinos. I am from Quezon Province and I am very proud of our place, specifically Lucban. The famous Kamay ni Hesus and the Pahiyas ng Lucban are worth visiting. I am married to an American and he is decided to retire in the Philippines because of our warm climate.” — Helen Heidel, Kansas

“I come from Brazil, but the best beaches in this world are in Philippines! OMG,such a wonderful country.” —Maria Clara Delos Santos

“It’s more fun in the Philippines because Filipinos often smile without any reason and it’s contagious. They have the natural sense of happiness which makes tourists love the Philippines and the people as well.” —Blossom-kun Ekhsdi

“It’s more fun in the Philippines because we know how to go with the flow, and enjoy it. We spot current trends worldwide (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, fashion styles, etc. and put our Filipino twist into it.) The new tourism campaign certifies it – Filipinos are creative. Their submissions and memes for this campaign are nice, well-thought of and entertaining.” — Ithan Jessemar Dollente

“It’s more fun in the Philippines because of the Filipino’s innate faith in God. So whatever happens, God is still in full control. This is why we rise above our tragedies — we move on, we believe that in the end, we will triumph! It makes us one of the happiest people on the face of this planet. Add to that the incredibly, unbelievably beautiful coastline! Oh, and we just did the zipline in Agas Agas, Leyte! A must-do!” — Luchie S. Callanta

“It’s more fun in the Philippines. It’s where singing is not a talent, but a hobby. People who have less smile more, and a stranger is always a part of the family.” — Francis Erneth Mojado Lu

“It’s more fun in the Philippines, because it is the only place in the universe where the so called ‘Bayanihan’ spirit prevails, which no specific culture or nation could ever duplicate or surpass. Hail the Pearl of the Orient Seas!” — Maria Nanzee

“Going places, from town to town, is not a problem — colorful jeepneys are here [while you ride] with other people. You can ask drivers [how to get to] where you want to go. They are friendly.” — Orlando V. Lucero

“It’s more fun in the Philippines because we celebrate Christmas and New Year here with a bang. Dito sa Canada, pagkatapos ng holiday, parang walang nangyari. Hindi memorable ang celebrations.” — Rose Noveloso

“It’s more fun in the Philippines because we Filipinos have world-class talents and skills. — and that is our TRADEMARK.” — Eugene Ramos

“It’s more fun in the Philippines because the malls are alive and teeming with people at 8:30 on a Tuesday evening.” — Rita Sargadilos Balazo

 

“It’s more fun in the Philippines because Filipinos are hospitable.” — Catherine Gonzales Calumpad

“Definitely more fun in the Philippines! I’ve been to many countries as well, but I still prefer ikutin ang buong Pilipinas. ItÕs because of [the] good weather, best beaches especially my hometown Palawan! Cheaper to travel, friendly and helpful Filipinos and natural attractions. Here in Europe itÕs also nice but expensive to tour around and [it’s] always cold.  Iba ang adventure,  thrill at  attractions sa Pilipinas. Huwag maging dayuhan sa sariling bayan! Simulang ikutin ang sariling bayan at masasabi niyo na kay ganda talaga ng Pilipinas.” — Sheryl C. Hansen

“It’s more fun in the Philippines kasi sobrang passionate tayo. Kung anti-DOT slogan, sige lang, banat. Kung pro-DOT naman, banat din. Definitely more fun in the Philippines to stand up for what you believe in! Gosh, I miss the motherland so bad.” — Sanctina Lxii

“Maybe we can also have some of these Philippine domestic tourism slogans: Boracay, You Sexy Beach! Haller, Baler! Bohol: Go To Hill! Be Cool, Bicol! Thank you, Camiguin! Maliit Navotas, Lumalaki! We Fly High In Capiz! Go Gaga In Naga! Kaibigan, Punta Na Sa Vigan! Virac, You Rock! Kamuning Get Me! Better Leyte Than Never! Whee! Tawi-Tawi! Walang Aayaw Sa Apayao! Maraming Gig Sa Taguig! Bongga Ka Day, Sa Norzagaray! Todong Todo sa Tondo! Hadang Hada sa Sagada! I wanna dance with Zambales, I wanna feel the heat with Zambales!” — Tito Glorioso

Source: http://globalnation.inquirer.net/23175/why-its-more-fun-in-the-philippines

Sinulog Festival 2013

 

Out of 28 who submitted their entries, “Rhythm in Unison” of filmmaker Jerrold Tarog from Cabuyao, Laguna is the 2007 grand prize winner in the 3rd Annual Sinulog Video Documentary Competition. A very well shot and edited documentary, which also boasts of beautiful musical scoring, it emerged as best among this year’s bests.

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