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GMA Network
24-05-2025
- Politics
- GMA Network
ESSAY: In defense of the kamote
Languishing in Congress is a proposed law that some headlines have dubbed the 'anti-kamote driver bill.' It's pure clickbait. When you actually read the bill, it's clear that it aims to protect innocent drivers from being unlawfully detained after accidents, a necessary safeguard for due process. There's nothing in the text that addresses the behaviors typically associated with so-called 'kamote drivers.' So why drag the kamote into it at all? Because the word has become viral shorthand that could catch eyeballs: a lazy, derogatory label for reckless motorists and motorcycle riders. And in doing so, we've allowed a vital, nutritious, and culturally significant crop to be reduced — again — to an insult. It's time to take the kamote back. The association with traffic chaos is just the latest instance of a century-long practice of maligning the kamote. 'Nangangamote' is a dreaded label that no student wants, and no one wants to hear a teacher (or boss) say, 'Go home and plant kamote!' But it's unfair — not to the students, drivers, and riders but to the kamote. The bullying of the kamote has to stop. We should be glorifying the kamote and not equating it with failure, stupidity, or recklessness. The kamote, along with a wide array of other root crops grown across the Philippines, has long been hailed by nutrition experts as a superfood. It's a nutritional powerhouse rich in fiber, amino acids, and vitamins, including brain-boosting B6. Scientists have studied its potential to lower hypertension, bad cholesterol, and blood sugar. And it's versatile, whether as talbos ng kamote salad or the beloved streetside kamote cue. But its value goes beyond nutrition. The kamote is a low-maintenance crop. It requires little to no fertilizer and pesticides, and grows underground, naturally shielded from typhoons and extreme heat, the same climate shocks that devastate rice farmers. In a warming world, kamote isn't just a food; it's the meaning of resilience, perhaps even the key to survival. Now compare that to rice: exalted, pampered, politically weaponized. In 2022, Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. won on a campaign promise to make rice cheap. Today, that promise haunts his administration. Filipinos love rice deeply. Many eat it three times daily. Some even soak it in coffee! Then come the rice-based desserts. Woe unto the politician who dares suggest cutting down on unli rice consumption. But any sensible doctor will tell you: that might help you live longer. Polished white rice stripped of key nutrients contributes to obesity and diabetes. Medical anthropologist Gideon Lasco has noted that rice was once a prestige food, grown in uplands and consumed by elites. What did the rest of the population eat? Hardy, nutritious root crops like kamote. Rice became an aspirational food for the kamote-dependent masses. They lacked prestige, but also rarely faced the health problems now linked to white rice. The American colonial period sealed the fates of both crops. Fernando Amorsolo's romanticized paintings of rice farmers helped elevate rice as a national symbol, tying it to idyllic visions of rural life. At the same time, agricultural expansion and new techniques made rice more accessible. It was no longer reserved for the elite. Yet for many poor Filipinos, kamote and other root crops remained the everyday staple. Rice was saved for birthdays, fiestas, and other special occasions. Meanwhile, American colonial teachers were known to insult students by calling them 'kamote eaters' — a slur that did more than shame diets. It planted the idea that indigenous ways of living, eating, and thinking were backward. Over time, this colonial mentality took root, normalizing the view of kamote and much of native Filipino culture as inferior. What was once an anchor for a healthy, self-reliant lifestyle became a punchline, a marker of shame. It doesn't help that the word kamot — as in the reflexive head-scratch (kamot-ulo) of rules-challenged riders and drivers — sounds almost like kamote. (Kamote actually comes from the Aztec word camotli, a culinary remnant of the two-hundred-year galleon trade between Mexico and the Philippines.) Today, with the sheer number of motorcycles on the road, riders have become both the most common victims and leading causes of the spike in road crashes. The term kamote rider has become iconic, not for any romantic reasons but as a symbol of disregard for traffic rules. With all that negative baggage, what hope does the kawawang kamote have of being embraced by nutrition-challenged youth? It's a cultural challenge with food-security implications. The Philippines is now the world's biggest rice importer. With a growing population and shrinking farmlands, rice self-sufficiency is no longer a dream but a delusion. Much of our rice now comes from China, handing them yet another geopolitical lever to tighten around our future. But there's a native solution hiding in plain sight: our root crops. By increasing consumption of locally grown kamote, gabi, cassava, taro, and other underground carbohydrates, we can reduce our dependence on imported rice and reclaim a part of our culinary heritage. As Dr. Gideon Lasco notes, traditional sinigang with gabi already offers a complete, satisfying meal. No rice needed. Root crops aren't just food. They're food security. They're health. They're sovereignty. As we say of the West Philippine Sea, 'Atin 'to.' Yet rebranding the kamote might be just as important as promoting its nutritional value. That's already started with experts like Dr. Lasco and former Health Secretary Janet Garin publicly extolling its virtues. To truly counter the kamote stereotypes in popular culture, we need more than endorsements from doctors and scientists. Celebrities and fast-food giants must step in and celebrate kamote as a superfood that fuels both brains and bodies. Political and community leaders must champion its cultivation, investing in research and reviving traditional knowledge of native preparations. Chefs can turn it into the next big food trend, reinventing kamote for a new generation. And let's be honest: the problem isn't the kamote, it's the reckless riders. So let's rebrand them. Call them Team Balagbag. Singit Riders. Lubak Legends. Just leave kamote out of it. It's time we looked down not to belittle but to rediscover the power beneath our feet.
Car and Driver
22-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Volvo XC90 Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview The mid-size luxury SUV class is a competitive one, full of stylish entrants with plush cabins, but the Volvo XC90 represents the best of what the segment has to offer. Volvo refreshed the XC90 just last year, which improved its curb appeal and added some modern tech touches inside. A pair of turbocharged four-cylinders is available, with the more powerful of the two—called B6—adding a supercharger to boost performance. A hybrid model is also offered, but we review that model separately. Road manners are refined, and the XC90 communicates a feeling of solidity and stability. All models come with three rows of seats, which is great for families, but the third row is a place where only kids will be happy riding. What's New for 2026? Coming off an extensive styling refresh for 2025, the XC90 rolls into 2026 with no significant updates. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Volvo XC90 is expected to start around $60,000 and go up to $72,000 depending on the trim and options. Core B5 $60,000 (est) Plus B5 $64,000 (est) Core B6 $65,000 (est) Plus B6 $68,000 (est) Ultra B5 $69,000 (est) Ultra B6 $72,000 (est) 0 $25k $50k $75k $100k $125k Volvo allows for a decent amount of personalization when it comes to building the perfect XC90, but to find a good balance of opulence, price, and power we'd suggest starting with the Plus trim, adding the optional 295-hp B6 powertrain, and sticking with the cheaper seven-passenger bench-seat layout instead of paying for second-row captain's chairs. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The B5 and B6 powertrains receive help from a 48-volt electric motor. B5 models feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine good for 247 horsepower; moving up to the B6 powertrain increases output to 295 horsepower. All-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission come with every XC90, no matter the trim level or powertrain. As with many vehicles in this class, the Volvo leans noticeably around curves but its steering responses are accurate, and the wheel has a pleasing heft that splits the difference between feather-light and heavyweight. Our test car had the optional air suspension, which provided a pleasant, insulated ride. It also handled most road situations well. Some clattering from the chassis over particularly sharp bumps betrays minor road imperfections, one of only a few grievances with the otherwise graceful XC90. 0–60-MPH Times We haven't tested the B5 or B6 variants of the XC90 since they gained 48-volt hybrid systems, but Volvo claims the B6 is good for a 6.4-second run to 60 mph while the less powerful B5 is estimated to need 7.3 seconds. View Exterior Photos Volvo Towing and Payload Capacity Those interested in pulling boats, trailers, and other toys should be aware that not every XC90 is capable of the model's 5000-pound max tow rating. While every XC90 with the 295-hp B6 powertrain can pull that much, XC90s with the base 247-hp B5 powertrain max out at 4000 pounds. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 XC90 yet, but the 2025 model earned ratings as high as 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. When we get a chance, we'll take the XC90 on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test and update this story with the results. For more information about the XC90's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The XC90's interior is a masterpiece of restraint, featuring an attractive design and high-quality materials that together create a warm ambiance. The XC90 features high-end materials, a handsomely designed dashboard, and several textile upholstery options. All models are offered with either a 5-, 6-, or 7-seat layout. Adults won't be happy in the third row, however, especially if the journey is long. The XC90's wide, boxy silhouette helps in the cargo-hauling department, but interior storage compartments aren't as cavernous as in some competitors. View Interior Photos Volvo Infotainment and Connectivity All XC90s come with an 11.2-inch infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. If you want it, a head-up display is optional. The software interface is derived from Google's Android Automotive system, but Apple CarPlay is standard on both screens for iPhone users. The system features in-dash navigation based on Google Maps and users can interact via voice with the Google Assistant. A ten-speaker stereo system is standard and features a 220-watt amplifier, but two different premium audio setups are available: a 600-watt, 14-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo or a 1410-watt, 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Volvo's commitment to safety is legendary, and its three-row crossover has a loaded roster of driver-assistance technology. For more information about the XC90's crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist Standard adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature Warranty and Maintenance Coverage The XC90 has a merely average warranty plan versus competitors. However, Volvo outdoes them by offering excellent complimentary scheduled maintenance. Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles Specifications Specifications 2025 Volvo XC90 Vehicle Type: front-engine or front-engine and rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 6- or 7-passenger, 4-door wagon PRICE B5, $59,745; B6, $64,645; T8, $74,295 POWERTRAINS turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline-4, 247 hp, 266 lb-ft; turbocharged, supercharged, and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline-4, 295 hp, 310 lb-ft; turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline-4, 310 hp, 295 lb-ft + AC motor, 145 hp, 228 lb-ft (combined output: 455 hp, 523 lb-ft; 14.7-kWh lithium-ion battery pack; 6.4-kW onboard charger) Transmissions: 8-speed automatic or 8-speed automatic/direct drive DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 117.5 in Length: 195.0 in Width: 76.1 in Height: 69.3–69.7 in Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 53–54/46–47/31 ft3 Cargo Volume, Behind F/M/R: 64–66/34–36/11–13 ft3 Curb Weight (C/D est): 4600–5200 lb PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) 60 mph: 4.5–7.3 sec 100 mph: 11.3–19.0 sec 1/4-Mile: 13.1–16.0 sec Top Speed: 112 mph EPA FUEL ECONOMY, B5/B6 (C/D EST) Combined/City/Highway: 23–26/20–23/26–30 mpg EPA FUEL ECONOMY, T8 (C/D EST) Combined/City/Highway: 27/26/27 mpg Combined Gasoline + Electricity: 58 MPGe EV Range: 32 mi More Features and Specs
The Sun
10-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
From shots to protein bar – we test products using superfood beetroot
YOU can't beat beetroot – as research shows it could benefit your body and brain. It can even help you run faster because beets are rich in nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide, a compound that helps relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles. And it's packed with more antioxidants than tomato, carrot, orange and pineapple juice. Today, I test three beet boosters. DAILY SHOT PLENISH Beet Balance Shots are a daily dose of beetroot, apple (74 per cent), ginger, lemon juice, with the added benefit of vitamin C for glowing skin plus B6 and folic acid. Best of all, they taste amazing. Each 60ml bottle has just 26 calories and 100 per cent of your reference intake of B6, which is great for regulating hormones. There is no added sugar. I would prefer if it was more beetroot and less apple, but I love these. I am sure they give me energy before a run. or currently £1.50 each with a Tesco Clubcard. My 60-year-old mom looks like she's in her 30s - she gave me her DIY skin spray recipe, it'll take years off your face VERSATILE JUICE IT looks just like red wine when you pour it into a glass, but Cawston Press Brilliant Beetroot tastes much earthier than the shot. That's because it is 90 per cent beetroot juice and just 9.9 per cent apple juice, with a little citric acid and vitamin C added. It doesn't have that off-putting aroma which some vegetable juices have, and it is only 39 calories per 100ml, with eight per cent sugar. This is also a really versatile product – you could easily add it to soups, casseroles, shakes or pancakes for an extra vitamin hit. Plus, there is the added bonus of this juice being a long life product, so you can keep it stashed away in the store cupboard before you open it. 1-litre, on offer for £2.65 with a Clubcard at Tesco. PROTEIN BAR BODYME Beetroot Berry Vegan Protein Bar contains protein powder blend (pea protein, sprouted brown rice protein, hemp protein) with cashews, coconut nectar, dates, goji berries, beetroot raspberry and coconut oil. And all of them are organic. There is not loads of beetroot in here, but this is a great snack bar. Each 60g bar includes 16g of plant protein and is packed with nutrients, vitamins and minerals. No added sugar or sweeteners in here. There is 9.5g of fat, but that comes from nuts and coconut oil. I found these were a great pick-me-up to help beat my usual mid-afternoon energy slump – without the jittery crash that comes after a coffee hit. £2.90 per bar from
Tom's Guide
08-05-2025
- Business
- Tom's Guide
Fans are obsessed with Nespresso's Nomad iced coffee cup – and it's finally back in stock
As the weather warms up, it's the best time to enjoy a refreshing iced coffee, and fans of Nespresso coffee are in for a treat. After the popularity of Nespresso's Nomad iced coffee tumbler, that quickly went viral on TikTok, it's no surprise that it was selling out fast everywhere. In fact, users began to vent their frustrations on social media at not being able to find a tumbler available in stores. Now fans will be glad to know that Nespresso has finally restocked the Nomad iced coffee cup — just in time for those summer beverages or when you're on the go. This is the ultimate travel coffee tumbler designed to keep your iced coffee cool all day long. So if you don't want to miss out, you can pick up an iced tumbler for just $22 from Nespresso — but you'd better be quick! This limited edition, reusable tumbler is designed to keep your Nespresso iced coffee at the perfect temperature. Offering a transparent exterior and an 18.3 oz capacity, it also has an insulated interior to keep your drinks cool all day. It also comes with a dome-like lid, alongside a silicone straw and cap to easily carry around on your daily commute, traveling or indoors. If you want to expand your iced coffee repertoire on your best Nespresso machine, the brand has just revealed its exciting new summer collection. Choose from a variety of delicious flavors including the velvety Pistachio Vanilla Flavour, or the exotic taste of Coconut Vanilla Flavour. Or if you fancy an extra boost to kick-start the day, check out the Active coffee for Vertuo, with Vitamin B6, and many more. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. It's no surprise, this collection is only here for a limited time only. So if you want to upgrade and spruce up your iced coffee game, these are perfect for summer. The Nespresso Summer 2025 Collection is available online and in Nespresso boutiques for a limited time.
Hamilton Spectator
07-05-2025
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
The Talk of the Town: Nespresso Serves its Summer 2025 Collection
MONTREAL, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nespresso unveils its Summer 2025 collection, setting the stage for a season of indulgence and unforgettable summer moments. This year, the brand brings back its most beloved iced coffee creations, introduces irresistible limited-edition coffee flavours, and adorns its machines and accessories with a bold, alluring colour palette. Designed with city breaks and on-the-go lifestyles in mind, Nespresso curates a playful, yet nostalgic and retro-inspired universe with its stylish and refreshing seasonal collection. The standout addition this summer is the Pistachio Vanilla Flavour coffee, a decadent and refreshing flavoured creation crafted to be savoured over ice, destined to capture the hearts of coffee lovers worldwide. Iced Coffees All Around This Summer Summer 2025 promises to be refreshing thanks to Nespresso's copious range of cold coffees, crafted for sun-drenched days and balmy evenings. Indulge in the new Pistachio Vanilla Flavour , where rich nuttiness meets velvety sweetness, or rediscover Coconut Vanilla Flavour , a tropical escape in every cup. And for those seeking an extra lift, the Active coffee for Vertuo , with Vitamin B6 and an exquisite almond vanilla flavour, will serve as an outstanding companion to illuminate your day. Beyond these seasonal delights, Nespresso 's permanent collection of cold coffees continues to satisfy every craving. Opt for the bold Freddo Intenso for Original , while Vertuo lovers can savour the vibrant Ice Leggero , the robust Ice Forte , or the richness of Cold Brew Style Intense. Vibrant Summer-Ready Machines and Accessories To complete the collection, Nespresso introduces a range of limited-edition machines and accessories, all in a joyful colour palette. At the heart of the collection are the signature Pistachio and Pastel Yellow shades, lending its soft, sophisticated hue to limited-edition Vertuo Pop+ machines, with a matching ice cube tray and travel tumblers. You can mix and match the new & elegant Barista Mixologist Glasses with limited-edition machines and accessories in dreamy pastel tones, such as the Candy Pink Aeroccino , perfect for adding a playful pop of colour to your summer coffee rituals. Whether you're preparing a velvety iced latte or a bold cold brew, these pieces bring both style and function to every cup. New Recipes to Drink on the Go or at Home Capture the full essence of these new and returning coffees through Nespresso 's expertly crafted recipes, designed to elevate every sip. Pistachio lovers will delight in the Iced Pistachio Vanilla Oat Latte recipe, a creamy, indulgent treat. Its rich, nutty profile blends seamlessly with the smoothness of oat milk. For a refreshing twist, try the Iced Coconut Vanilla Mint Coffee , where tropical coconut and sweet vanilla meet a hint of cool, invigorating mint. Beyond these signature creations, Nespresso has curated a selection of simple yet delicious iced coffee recipes, ensuring you can enjoy a new and exciting coffee experience every day of the week. All recipes can be found online at . The Nespresso Summer 2025 Collect ion is available online and in Nespresso boutiques for a limited time. Follow @nespresso and @ to keep up to date with all the latest Nespresso news . About Nestlé Nespresso Nestlé Nespresso SA is a pioneer and is widely regarded as one of the top references in the field of high-quality portioned coffee. The company works with more than 157,000 farmers in 18 countries through its AAA Sustainable Quality™ Program to embed sustainability practices on farms and the surrounding landscapes. Launched in 2003 in collaboration with the NGO Rainforest Alliance, the program helps to improve the yield and quality of harvests, ensuring a sustainable supply of high-quality coffee and improving livelihoods of farmers and their communities. In 2022, Nespresso achieved B Corp™ certification – joining an international movement of over 9,000 purpose-led businesses that meet B Corp's high standards of social and environmental responsibility and transparency. Headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, Nespresso operates in 93 markets and has 14'000 employees. In 2023, it operated a global retail network of 791 boutiques. For more information, visit the Nespresso corporate website: . IG @nespresso TT @nespresso FB @nespresso X @Nespresso IN Nestlé Nespresso SA A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
