A statement have been issued to address recent rumors and negative posts circulating on social media that Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil, the newly appointed chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), is removing the rice allowances of PNP personnel and donating them to persons deprived of liberty (PDL).

PNP Chief Marbil categorically denies these baseless accusations, stating that he has not issued any directive concerning the rice allowances of PNP personnel nor does he have any intention to do so. These malicious attacks are clearly orchestrated by individuals seeking to discredit Chief Marbil, who has expressed his commitment to restore the reputation of the police force through smart policing methods. It is evident that those who have tarnished the name of the PNP are resorting to fabricating lies to malign his policies as the new PNP chief and incite these unwarranted attacks.

Under Chief Marbil's leadership, the PNP is dedicated to shifting away from the language of "war" in addressing the country's illegal drug menace. The term "war on drugs" has unfortunately become associated with widespread human rights abuses in the past. Chief Marbil aims to introduce essential reforms within the PNP, focusing on the following initial guidelines:

• Limited duration for mass formation and flag-raising ceremonies (15 to 20 minutes).
• Prompt presence and functionality in respective offices before 8:00 am.
• Strict prohibition of cellphone use while on patrol duty, with severe penalties for violators.
• Simplification of PNP personnel compliances to make their lives easier.
• Implementation of new Unit Performance Evaluation Rating (UPER) criteria.
• Accomplishment of 70% of warrants of arrests for wanted individuals.
• Removal of favoritism in promotion and assignments.
• Elimination of exclusivity for promotion among 3rd level Police Commissioned Officers (PCOs).
• Restriction of Police Community Relations (PCR) activities to Police Regional Offices (PROs) only, excluding National Operational Support Unit (NOSU) and National Administrative Support Unit (NASU).
• Non-reassignment of any PNP personnel facing a case to their previous units.
• Conducting meetings exclusively through Zoom conference to optimize the time of unit commanders.
• No changes in effect for a period of one (1) month.
• Removal of 24-hour duty for police personnel.

Regrettably, attackers of the PNP Chief have added three fake items to the aforementioned guidelines, which they would like to clarify:

• The inclusion of an inverted crawl in the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) is a malicious falsehood as it contradicts the intention of making things easier for our personnel.
• Rice subsidy, Combat Incentive Pay (CIP), and Combat Duty Pay (CDP) are automatically topped up to the regular salaries of PNP personnel through their ATM cards. It is impossible to donate these allowances.
• Salary increases come naturally with promotions, and there is no need for a separate announcement.

Chief Marbil warns those who seek to discredit him and hinder his plans for the PNP that he will not tolerate these vicious assaults against the leadership. “A thorough investigation is currently underway to identify the source of this malicious campaign, and those responsible will face the harshest possible sanctions,” he stated. 

They urge the public to remain vigilant against false information and to rely on verified sources for accurate updates regarding the PNP's policies and initiatives. The PNP, under Chief Marbil's guidance, is unwavering in its commitment to serve and protect the Filipino people with utmost professionalism and integrity.

All the places we’ve been to have a story to tell. Every location we visit tends to keep a piece of us until the next time we encounter it. In 28 Squared Studios’ film “Under Parallel Skies,” every scene is a picturesque display of a love story unfolding against the timeless beauty of Hong Kong. 

Filipino actress Janella Salvador and Thai actor Win Metawin come together as an unlikely pairing but with surprisingly good onscreen chemistry in this romantic tale set in Asia’s World City.. The story unfolds as Iris (played by Janella) helps Parin (portrayed by Win) find his missing mother, leading their relationship to flourish and grow amidst the backdrop of Hong Kong. “Under Parallel Skies'' spotlights the city’s hidden charm through the various locations and attractions featured, showing a different perspective on what people usually expect when it comes to Hong Kong.

If you think a serendipitous trip to Asia’s World City is in the stars for you, then these locations from “Under Parallel Skies” might be some of the best places to start.

Peng Chau

Lead actress Janella said it herself that Peng Chau is “a place you don’t usually see from Hong Kong”. She goes on to gush over the slow-paced lifestyle on the island, where people ride bikes instead of cars.  In the film, Parin finds the time to bring a bit of humor by coaxing Iris to try a Thai delicacy: silkworms. The location where they bought the snack is a real establishment called Siyamon Thai Cooking which you can find on the island. My Secret Garden is an open art space with fun installations and is where a number of Parin and Iris’ more playful moments were filmed. And finally, (spoiler warning) the cafe that played a significant role in the film is a real cafe named Chill Chill Country.

Peng Chau is truly a scenic location that gives you a taste of real village life. The charming island is dotted with Instagram and photography-worthy spots — from remains of an old factory, beaches, and temples, to street arts which add vibrancy to this tranquil community. Walking its trails gives the inspired feeling of a possible meet-cute, or is simply the perfect place to be alone with your own thoughts and the nature around you.

Getting to Peng Chau is easy. Take a ferry from Central Pier No. 6, which is accessible from MTR Hong Kong Station. This trip takes about 30 minutes. More info about Peng Chau.

Avenue of Stars

Some of the most poignant scenes in the movie take place at the Avenue of Stars, a Hong Kong staple that is sure to dazzle anyone who visits. Standing in the midst of all the lights while taking in the view of the water will surely bring the same feeling that some scenes from the movie evoke. Surrounded by the visually refreshing architecture and with a front-row seat to the city’s iconic Symphony of Lights show, you can have your own romantic city moment.

Bird Market

Birds were a recurring symbol throughout the film and the Bird Market is an interesting spot for those who love being close to animals, as well as those who are looking to adopt unconventional pets. Exotic and colorful birds line the street, and it is definitely a unique place to make lasting memories on your trip to Hong Kong

Have a look at the exotic birds at Yuen Po Street Bird Garden at Yuen Po Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong.

Luk on Kui

The old-school trolley dim sum is a must for foodies and dim sum lovers. Iris and Parin had the chance to deepen their understanding of each other while they talked over this dim sum place’s esteemed food. Heralded as Hong Kong’s best dim sum, Luk on Kui is a testament that the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach. If you want the most authentic dim sum experience, then having a meal at Luk on Kui will surely make your entire trip.

Fulfill your dim sum dreams at Luk on Kui at 40-50 Des Voeux Rd W, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong.

Causeway Bay Sogo crossing

In the film, Iris mentions something about transitions and changes in life. The Causeway Bay crossing is the best visual representation of this, as it's where the biggest transitions happen in the city. It’s the very definition of a bustling spot and a representation of the fast-paced city life of Hong Kong.

Tin Hau Temple at Yau Ma Tei

One theme touched upon by the film is fate, with Iris and Parin visiting the Tin Hau temple to find out their fortune and what the future holds for them. The temple is a declared monument of Hong Kong where fishermen flock to worship the Goddess of the Sea. It’s a place for those more spiritual of mind, wherein a quiet moment spent here is the perfect escape from the fast-paced city life in Hong Kong.

Visit this tranquil shrine at 56-58 Temple Street, Temple St, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong.

Tai O Fishing Village

On the subject of fishing and fishermen, Tai O is the resident fishing town of Hong Kong hidden away at the far end of Lantau Island. The movie shows its tranquil waters and how life can be simpler in a place like Tai O. The little boats and the salty fragrance of the water will surely make this a memorable spot, It is also home to the iconic Tai O Heritage Hotel, scenic hiking trails, traditional restaurant fare, and street snacks. Keep an eye out for local Tai O souvenirs such as shrimp paste, salty fish, and dried seafood.

There are a few ways to get to Tai O. One of them is to take the train from Central to MTR Tung Chung Station followed by bus 11 to Tai O. The journey takes about 45 minutes. Learn more about the tranquil village of Tai O here.

Little Thailand

Within Kowloon City, Little Thailand can be found. A comedic scene in the film references this location and offers a sweet and thoughtful reference to Win’s home country. Little Thailand also serves as the backdrop to Parin’s biggest conflict in the movie. The shops and establishments are certainly authentic, transporting you to Thailand in an instant.

Experience a taste of Thailand in the Kowloon City Market at 100 Nga Tsin Wai Rd, Kowloon City, Hong Kong. Other Thai-inspired locations nearby are the shops along South Wall Road and Ruamjai Thai Grocery at G/F, 21 South Wall Road, Kowloon City, Kowloon.

Jimmy Bridge

The Jimmy Bridge is uniquely designed and offers a picture-perfect atmosphere for everyone crossing it. One of the more dramatic sequences in the movie takes place at this bridge, a sure tearjerker for those who have yet to see this film. 

Iris and Parin may be from two different worlds, but Hong Kong is where they came together to tell their story. From a remote fishing village to a busy main street, these characters pieced together their journey with memories from all of the unique spots and attractions they visited in the city.

“Under Parallel Skies” premiered nationwide on April 17, 2024, and is directed by award-winning director Sigrid Bernardo. This story of love, grief, and transitions will also be shown in several countries, including Singapore and Thailand, and is thoughtfully co-produced by Hong Kong native Richard Juan. 

To learn more about the featured locations and embark on your own journey under the stars, check out discoverhongkong.com for more information.