Category: Transport

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Future research on Cystic Fibrosis in the UK
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

February 26, 2025

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an incurable, life-limiting condition, affecting over 11,300 people in the UK costing the NHS millions in care.

Unbeknown to many, a game changing drug called Kaftrio was made available on the NHS at the start of the pandemic which has transformed the lives of many patients. People who thought all their lives that they would die in their 20s or 30s are now living to have families and careers and the change of a much longer and fuller life. But behind this wonderful success story lies huge challenges. Some patients don’t have the right genotype to respond to Kaftrio and others can’t tolerate the drug. Also with longer life expectancy, patients face a new and daunting list of health issues that come with living longer with a chronic disease. Research on CF now needs to adapt to this new era.

To mark the end of Cystic Fibrosis Trust’s 60^th anniversary year the SMC invited the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and a panel of leading academics and charity experts to discuss the future of Cystic Fibrosis and the charity’s new research goals, alongside the publication of a new briefing: The Future of Cystic Fibrosis Care in the UK. The briefing covered the research goals being developed to: –
1. Develop effective treatments for all
2. Improve the diagnosis and treatment of CF lung infections and maintain lung health
3. Treat all of the symptoms of CF throughout the body
4. Enable people with CF to live longer, healthier lives
Speakers included:

Dr Lucy Allen, Director of Research and Healthcare Data, Cystic Fibrosis Trust

Professor Jane Davies, Honorary Consultant in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton Hospital and Professor of Paediatric Respiratory Medicine and Experimental Medicine, Imperial College London

Dr Frederick Frost, Senior Lecturer, University of Liverpool and Honorary Consultant Respiratory Physician

David Ramsden, Chief Executive, Cystic Fibrosis Trust
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Captain Vernon’s Patient Informational Minute – Virtual Health

Source: United States Navy (Medical)

Captain TaRail A. Vernon, Commanding Officer, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella, had the opportunity to discuss Virtual Health options with Lt. Cmdr. Leland Comer and RN Liz Broomfield-Smith on his monthly AFN radio show, Capt. Vernon’s Patient Informational Minute. The team spoke about the convenience of telephone and video enabled virtual health appointments, where patients can have a medical appointment with their primary care physician on health care concerns that do not include diagnostic and hands on physical exams. Patients can have a medical appointment with their provider for a wide variety of topics such as medication refills. Patients can also speak with their physician about established concerns that require specialists throughout the military healthcare network to include, Naples, Bahrain, Souda Bay and Germany. The interview concluded with the team educating patients about the convenience of virtual health, how to book appointments and the coordination of specialty health care.

U. S. Naval hospital Sigonella is one of The Defense Health Agency’s Overseas Military Treatment Facilities (MTF). The staff are comprised of active duty service members, General Service (GS), contractors, and Local Nationals. It ensures maximum readiness by providing high-quality, safe patient and family-centered care to maximize force health protection for all beneficiaries, to included NATO and transient DoD forces in the U.S. Fifth Fleet and U.S. Sixth Fleet areas of operation.

MIL Security OSI –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bread Financial Announces Private Offering of Subordinated Notes

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

COLUMBUS, Ohio, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bread Financial^® Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: BFH) (“Bread Financial” or the “Company”) announced today that it intends to offer, subject to market and other conditions, $400 million aggregate principal amount of fixed-rate reset subordinated notes (the “Notes”) in a private offering that is exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

The Company intends to lend no less than $250 million of the net proceeds of the Notes offering as subordinated debt to one of its subsidiary banks, Comenity Capital Bank, with the remaining proceeds intended to be used for general corporate purposes, which may include share repurchases.

Consummation of the offering of the Notes is subject to market and other conditions, and there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to successfully complete this transaction on the terms described above, or at all.

The Notes will not be registered under the Securities Act, or any state securities laws. The Notes may not be offered or sold in the United States absent an effective registration statement or an applicable exemption from registration requirements under the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. Accordingly, the Notes will be offered only (A) to persons reasonably believed to be “qualified institutional buyers” under Rule 144A of the Securities Act or (B) outside the United States to non-U.S. persons in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act.

This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

About Bread Financial^®
Bread Financial^® (NYSE: BFH) is a tech-forward financial services company that provides simple, personalized payment, lending and saving solutions to millions of U.S. consumers. The Company’s payment solutions, including Bread Financial general purpose credit cards and savings products, empower its customers and their passions for a better life. Additionally, the Company delivers growth for some of the most recognized brands in travel & entertainment, health & beauty, jewelry and specialty apparel through their private label and co-brand credit cards and pay-over-time products providing choice and value to their shared customers.

Forward-looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements related to the Notes offering described above. Forward-looking statements give the Company’s expectations or forecasts of future events and can generally be identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “project,” “plan,” “likely,” “may,” “should” or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements that describe the Company’s business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals also are forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements made regarding, and the guidance given with respect to, the Company’s anticipated operating or financial results, future financial performance and outlook, future dividend declarations or stock repurchases and future economic conditions.

The Company believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions. Forward-looking statements, however, are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and, in many cases, beyond its control. Accordingly, actual results could differ materially from the projections, anticipated results or other expectations expressed in this release, and no assurances can be given that the Company’s expectations will prove to have been correct. Factors that could cause the outcomes to differ materially include, but are not limited to, the following: macroeconomic conditions, including market conditions, inflation, interest rates, labor market conditions, recessionary pressures or concerns over a prolonged economic slowdown, and the related impact on consumer spending behavior, payments, debt levels, savings rates and other behaviors; global political, public health and social events or conditions, including ongoing wars and military conflicts, and natural disasters; future credit performance of the Company’s customers, including the level of future delinquency and write-off rates; loss of, or reduction in demand for services from, significant brand partners or customers in the highly competitive markets in which the Company competes; the concentration of the Company’s business in U.S. consumer credit; increases or volatility in the Allowance for credit losses that may result from the application of the current expected credit loss (CECL) model; inaccuracies in the models and estimates on which the Company rely, including the amount of the Company’s Allowance for credit losses and its credit risk management models; increases in fraudulent activity; failure to identify, complete or successfully integrate or disaggregate business acquisitions, divestitures and other strategic initiatives, including, with respect to divested businesses, any associated guarantees, indemnities or other liabilities; the extent to which the Company’s results are dependent upon brand partners, including brand partners’ financial performance and reputation, as well as the effective promotion and support of the Company’s products by brand partners; increases in the cost of doing business, including market interest rates; the Company’s level of indebtedness and inability to access financial or capital markets, including asset-backed securitization funding or deposits markets; restrictions that limit the ability of the Company’s subsidiary banks, Comenity Bank and Comenity Capital Bank (the “Banks”), to pay dividends to it; pending and future litigation; pending and future federal, state, local and foreign legislation, regulation, supervisory guidance and regulatory and legal actions including, but not limited to, those related to financial regulatory reform and consumer financial services practices, as well as any such actions with respect to late fees, interchange fees or other charges; increases in regulatory capital requirements or other support for the Banks; impacts arising from or relating to the transition of the Company’s credit card processing services to third party service providers that it completed in 2022; failures, or breaches in operational or security systems, including as a result of cyberattacks, unanticipated impacts from technology modernization projects, failure of information security controls or otherwise; loss of consumer information or other data due to compromised physical or cyber security, including disruptive attacks from financially motivated bad actors and third-party supply chain issues; any tax or other liability, or adverse impacts arising out of or related to the spinoff of the Company’s former LoyaltyOne segment or the bankruptcy filings of Loyalty Ventures Inc. (LVI) and certain of its subsidiaries, and subsequent litigation or other disputes. If one or more of these or other risks or uncertainties materialize, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may vary materially from what we projected. In addition, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued a final rule in 2024 that, absent a successful legal challenge or other invalidation of the rule, will place significant limits on credit card late fees, which would have a significant impact on the Company’s business and results of operations for at least the short term and, depending on the effectiveness of the mitigating actions that the Company has taken or may in the future take in anticipation of, or in response to, the final rule, may potentially adversely impact it over the long term; the Company cannot provide any assurance as to the effective date, if any, of the rule, the result of any pending or future challenges or other litigation relating to the rule, or its ability to mitigate or offset the impact of the rule on its business and results of operations. The foregoing factors, along with other risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements, are described in greater detail under the headings “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the most recently ended fiscal year, which may be updated in Item 1A of, or elsewhere in, the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed for periods subsequent to such Form 10-K. The Company’s forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and it undertakes no obligation, other than as required by applicable law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events, anticipated or unanticipated circumstances or otherwise.

Contacts

Brian Vereb — Investor Relations
Brian.Vereb@breadfinancial.com

Susan Haugen — Investor Relations
Susan.Haugen@breadfinancial.com

Rachel Stultz — Media
Rachel.Stultz@breadfinancial.com

The MIL Network –

March 6, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: DNA detectives in Antarctica: probing 6,000 years of penguin poo for clues to the past

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jamie Wood, Senior Lecturer in Ecology and Evolution, University of Adelaide

Jamie Wood

Studies of ancient DNA have tended to focus on frozen land in the northern hemisphere, where woolly mammoths and bison roamed. Meanwhile, Antarctica has received relatively little attention. We set out to change that.

The most suitable sediments are exposed near the coast of the icy continent, where penguins like to breed. Their poo is a rich source of DNA, providing information about the health of the population as well as what penguins have been eating.

Our new research opens a window on the past of Adélie penguins in Antarctica, going back 6,000 years. It also offers a surprise glimpse into the shrinking world of southern elephant seals over the past 1,000 years.

Understanding how these species coped with climate change in the past can help us prepare for the future. Wildlife in Antarctica faces multiple emerging threats and will likely need support to cope with the many challenges ahead.

A unique marine ecosystem

Adélie penguins are particularly sensitive to changes in their environment. This makes them what we call a “sentinel species”, providing an early warning of imbalance or dysfunction in the coastal ecosystem. Their poo also provides a record of how they responded to changes in the past.

In our new research, we excavated pits up to 80cm deep at ten Adélie penguin colonies along the 700km Ross Sea coastline. We then collected 156 sediment samples from different depths in each excavation.

Six of these colonies were still active, meaning birds return annually to breed. The other four had been abandoned at various times over the past 6,000 years.

From these sediments we generated 94 billion DNA sequences, which provided us with an unparalleled window into the past lives of Adélie penguins and their ecosystem.

We detected the DNA of several animal species besides Adélie penguins. These animals included two other birds, three seals and two soil invertebrates.

Not all of this DNA came from penguin poo. Our samples also contained DNA from feathers, hairs or skin cells of other species in the environment at the time.

Sediment samples were taken from ten penguin colonies of various ages, six active (white dot) and four abandoned (coloured dot), on the coast of Ross Sea in Antarctica.
Wood, J., et al (2025) Nature Communications, CC BY-NC-ND

Penguin population size and diet

When we took a closer look at the DNA from penguins of the present day, we found more genetic diversity in samples from larger colonies.

Recognising this relationship between genetic diversity and colony size enabled us to estimate the size of former colonies. We could also reconstruct population trends through time.

For example, in samples from active colonies, we found penguin genetic diversity increased as we sampled closer and closer to the surface. This may reflect population growth over the past century.

The DNA also revealed changes in penguin diets over time. Over the past 4,000 years, the penguins in the southern Ross Sea switched from mainly eating one type of fish – the bald notothen – to another, Antarctic silverfish.

The bald notothen lives beneath the sea ice, so this prey-switching was likely driven by a change in sea ice extent compared with the past.

Examples of an active Adélie penguin colony (Cape Hallett), and a 6,000 year old abandoned Adélie penguin colony site (Terra Nova Bay).
Jamie Wood

Surprise! Elephant seals

We made an unexpected discovery at Cape Hallett, in the northern Ross Sea. This is the site of an active penguin colony.

Samples of sediment from close to the surface contained lots of penguin DNA and eggshell. But samples from further down, where penguin DNA and eggshell were scarce, contained DNA from southern elephant seals.

Today, elephant seals are uncommon visitors to the Antarctic continent, and breed on subantarctic islands including Macquarie, Campbell and Antipodes Islands. Yet, bones of elephant seal pups found along the Ross Sea coast indicate the species used to breed in the area.

Carbon dating of these bones indicate elephant seal colonies began disappearing from the southern Ross Sea around 1,000 years ago. Over the following 200 years, colonies in the northern Ross Sea began vanishing too.

As the climate cooled and the extent of sea ice increased, elephant seals could no longer access suitable breeding sites. These sites were then taken over by Adélie penguins who expanded into areas once occupied by seals.

Our DNA evidence suggests Cape Hallett was one of the last strongholds of southern elephant seals on the icy continent. But we may yet again see elephant seals breeding on the Antarctic mainland as the world warms and sea ice melts.

Even more ancient DNA in Antarctica

Our study spans the past 6,000 years, but our research suggests it would be possible to go even further back.

The DNA fragments we found were very well preserved, showing little of the damage expected in warmer climates.

So it should be possible to obtain much older DNA from sediments on land in Antarctica – maybe even 1 million-year-old DNA, as recently reported from Antarctic sediments beneath the ocean floor.

Worthy of lasting protection

In December 2017, 2.09 million square kilometres of the Ross Sea and adjoining Southern Ocean became the world’s largest marine protected area. Establishing the protection was a major achievement, yet it was only afforded for 35 years.

After 2052, continuation of the region’s protected status will require international agreement. Knowledge of the vulnerability of local species and their risk in the face of change will play a key role in informing the decision. Our research provides a case study for how ancient environmental DNA can contribute towards this understanding.

This research was part of the Ross Sea Region Research and Monitoring Programme,, funded by the New Zealand Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment.

Theresa Cole does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. DNA detectives in Antarctica: probing 6,000 years of penguin poo for clues to the past – https://theconversation.com/dna-detectives-in-antarctica-probing-6-000-years-of-penguin-poo-for-clues-to-the-past-249940

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cutting-Edge Research on AI Security bolstered with new Challenge Fund to ramp up public trust and adoption
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

Press release

Cutting-Edge Research on AI Security bolstered with new Challenge Fund to ramp up public trust and adoption

AI security research and protecting critical systems will be the focus of the first grant fund created under the AI Security Institute.
AI security research and protecting critical systems will be the focus of the first grant fund created under the AI Security Institute

Researchers worldwide can access grants up to £200,000 for innovative research to harden critical industries, prevent AI misuse, and ensure oversight and control of these highly capable systems

New work will increase public confidence in the technology, driving up adoption and boosting growth as part of the government’s Plan for Change

The first ever Challenge Fund launched under the AI Security Institute today (Wednesday 5 March) will focus on areas critical to the UK’s national security such as AI misuse, bolstering public confidence in the technology and leading to greater AI adoption across the economy as a central pillar of the government’s Plan for Change.

Researchers covering a range of AI security threats, such as protecting critical systems from failure and preventing AI misuse, can now apply for fresh funding to strengthen UK defences, as part of a £5 million programme. As AI capabilities advance, so do the risks, making investment in robust security research more urgent than ever. By tackling these risks head on, the government will also boost public trust in AI – helping to remove barriers for those looking to adopt the technology to drive forward growth, innovation, and new opportunities in all areas of the economy.

Led by the UK’s AI Security Institute, the Challenge Fund will award grants of up to £200,000 per project to address pressing, open questions in AI security and safety – with researchers being called on to put their proposals forward.

This initiative reinforces the Institute’s renewed security focus, building a strong evidence base to understand and mitigate the most serious threats posed by advanced AI systems. It will also ensure the UK’s critical infrastructure is protected as the government looks to unlock AI’s full potential and boost adoption across the economy – ramping up productivity and ensuring more innovative AI is developed on UK shores as part of the Plan for Change.

Minister for AI and Digital Government Feryal Clark said:

AI is at the heart of our Plan for Change – driving economic growth, creating jobs, and transforming public services for people across the country. But to unlock its full potential, we must ensure AI systems are secure, resilient, and trusted – with safety baked in from the start.

This fund supports world-class research to tackle the toughest safety and security challenges in AI, protecting critical infrastructure and removing barriers to adoption. By addressing these challenges head-on, we’re laying the foundations for AI to boost productivity, strengthen public services and power a decade of national renewal.

The fund will focus on supporting research tackling 4 critical AI security and safety challenges. As AI integrates into financial markets, healthcare and energy grids, failures or misuse could cause systemic disruptions and security risks – as such, the research will help boost confidence in AI and make sure our economy is better protected.

Ensuring human oversight is another priority, as AI takes on complex decision-making roles. The fund will support research into robust controls which will allow humans to reliably monitor and intervene to prevent any emerging risks, even as AI systems operate autonomously. This funding will support research to strengthen protections and reduce these risks.

AI Security Institute Chair Ian Hogarth said:

This fund directly supports researchers seeking to understand and address the most urgent AI risks – whether that’s ensuring AI systems remain resilient against misuse, ensuring human oversight over autonomous systems or strengthening our society against emerging threats.

Making sure AI systems are aligned and operate with human oversight are 2 of the key open questions in technical AI safety. By funding high-impact research across these priority areas, we’re building the evidence base needed to develop a robust understanding of, and real-world solutions for, the most urgent security risks AI presents.

By advancing AI security, the fund will bolster public confidence, drive long-term economic growth, and cement the UK’s leadership in responsible AI development. This aligns with the government’s Plan for Change, accelerating AI adoption to enhance productivity and improve public services nationwide.

The AI Security Institute will provide grants to researchers and non-profit organisations worldwide with clear, tangible security solutions. Proposals will be assessed on their potential impact, with priority given to innovations that would not be realised without this support.

Further information

Visit the AI Security Institute website for further details. Applications open on 5 March 2025, with successful projects announced within 12 weeks.

DSIT media enquiries

Email press@dsit.gov.uk

Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

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Updates to this page

Published 5 March 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Applications for White Form Secondary Market Scheme 2024 to commence from tomorrow

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Applications for White Form Secondary Market Scheme 2024 to commence from tomorrow
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Housing Authority: The Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) announced today (March 5) that the White Form Secondary Market Scheme (WSM) 2024 (WSM 2024) will open for applications for three weeks, starting from 8am tomorrow (March 6) until 7pm on March 26. Youth Scheme (WSM) and quota “In response to the Chief Executive’s announcement of a series of measures in the 2024 Policy Address to enhance the housing ladder, which include, among others, assisting young people to purchase subsidised sale flats, the HA’s Subsidised Housing Committee endorsed on January 14, 2025, that starting from WSM 2024, the quota will increase significantly by 1 500 to 6 000. All of the 1 500 additional quotas will be allocated to young applicants aged below 40 under the Youth Scheme (WSM), while the remaining 4 500 will be ordinary quotas. Applicants of WSM 2024 who opt to join the Youth Scheme (WSM) must have reached the age of 18 on the closing date of application and must be below the age of 40 on the commencement date of application,” a spokesman for the HA said. The allocation ratio of quota for family and one-person applicants is kept at 9:1 under WSM 2024. This means that the 4 500 ordinary quotas include 4 050 quotas allocated to family applicants and 450 quotas allocated to one-person applicants; the 1 500 additional quotas of the Youth Scheme (WSM) include 1 350 quotas allocated to young family applicants and 150 quotas allocated to young one-person applicants. Application arrangements WSM 2024 will adopt the relevant eligibility criteria for the Sale of Home Ownership Scheme Flats 2024, including the income and asset limits as well as restrictions on domestic property ownership in Hong Kong. The income and asset limits for family applicants are $60,000 per month and $1,230,000 respectively; the income and asset limits for one-person applicants are $30,000 per month and $615,000 respectively. “Eligible applicants may submit online applications or paper applications for WSM 2024 either in person or by post. The application fee is $250. Balloting is expected to be held in the second quarter of this year, and Approval Letters for successful applicants are expected to be issued in the third/fourth quarter of this year. Within the specified period, holders of the Approval Letters may submit applications to the HA and/ or the Hong Kong Housing Society (HKHS) for the Certificate of Eligibility to Purchase (valid for one year) to purchase a flat with premium not yet paid in the Home Ownership Scheme Secondary Market or the Flat-for-Sale Scheme Secondary Market,” the spokesman said. Starting from today until March 26, application forms and application guides are available on the HA/Housing Department’s designated website for WSM 2024 (www.housingauthority.gov.hk/wsm/2024), while printed copies can be obtained during opening hours from the HA Customer Service Centre in Lok Fu, the office of the HA’s Green Form Subsidised Home Ownership Scheme Sales Unit in Kwun Tong, estate offices and District Tenancy Management Offices of the HA, rental estate offices of the HKHS and the Home Affairs Enquiry Centres of the Home Affairs Department. Members of the public are reminded to read carefully the application guide of WSM 2024 before submission of applications. They may call the 24-hour HA Sales and WSM Hotline at 2712 8000 on matters concerning the applications.

Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 9:00

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Strategic Public Policy Research Funding Scheme 2025-26 opens for applications

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Strategic Public Policy Research Funding Scheme 2025-26 opens for applications
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The Chief Executive’s Policy Unit (CEPU) today (March 5) announced that the Strategic Public Policy Research Funding Scheme (SPPRFS) 2025-26 is open for applications between now and April 23, 2025. The SPPRFS is aimed at encouraging local think tank experts and scholars (including universities and civil society think tanks) to apply their expertise to conduct evidence-based research on key public policy issues, and to facilitate the knowledge transfer of research findings to policy considerations, serving as a channel for the Government to tap the public policy research expertise of society. In light of the policy priorities of the Government, six strategic themes have been identified for the SPPRFS 2025-26. They are: (a) Development Opportunities from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; (b) New Quality Productive Forces; (c) Integrated Development of Education, Technology and Talents; (d) International Financial, Shipping and Trade Centre; (e) Integrated Development of Culture, Sports and Tourism; and (f) Elderly and Healthcare Services. Applications for the SPPRFS must be made under one of the above specified strategic themes and be in line with the specified research areas. Those falling outside the specified strategic themes and specified research areas will not be considered generally. Each SPPRFS project may be granted a maximum of HK$5 million and last from one to five years. Separately, the major themes and indicative research areas of the Public Policy Research Funding Scheme (PPRFS), which is also administered by the CEPU, have been updated having regard to Hong Kong’s current and long-term development as well as the need for research on various social issues. While applications for the SPPRFS are accepted at specific times each year, the PPRFS focuses on research studies of shorter duration and smaller scale with applications accepted throughout the year. Applications for the PPRFS will be vetted, and notifications of the results will be issued by batch. Assessments for the SPPRFS and PPRFS will be conducted by an Assessment Panel, which comprises experienced academics and professional experts. The Assessment Panel will also take into account comments from external reviewers who are experienced academics and professional experts during the assessment process. To ensure the policy relevance of the research proposals, views of relevant government bureaux/departments will also be sought for reference by the Panel. A declaration of interests system is in place to ensure that the assessments are fair and impartial. Research quality and relevance to public policy needs are the primary considerations in evaluating research proposals under both Schemes, including the reasonableness of the research proposal, the research team’s capability, the cost-effectiveness of the proposed budget, and whether the research findings can be effectively translated into practicable policy recommendations. For details of the SPPRFS and PPRFS, including eligibility criteria, research areas, assessment mechanism, application method and other related information, please visit the CEPU’s website (www. cepu.gov.hk/en/PRFS).

Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 12:00

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH suspends licence of day procedure centre in Causeway Bay

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

DH suspends licence of day procedure centre in Causeway Bay
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In response to media enquiries about the suspension of the licence of a day procedure centre (DPC) in Causeway Bay, a spokesman for the Department of Health (DH) today (March 5) responded as follows: “Upon receipt of a complaint about a suspected mishandling of medical equipment by a DPC, Dr MD Clinic and Ambulatory Centre located at the World Trade Centre in Causeway Bay, the DH immediately investigated and conducted unannounced inspections. During the inspections, the DPC was found to have contravened the Code of Practice for Day Procedure Centres under the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance, namely improper handling and management of an anaesthetic drug, failure to properly sterilise medical equipment, and inadequate staff training and supervision. In addition, the DPC was suspected to have filled in false information in the checking and monitoring of records, including those concerning medical equipment. The DH has not received any reports of adverse events related to this DPC on the matter so far. Given the potential risks to patients of the multiple serious breaches of the Code of Practice, and in order to protect the public interest, the DH announced the suspension of the DPC’s licence with immediate effect. The DPC in question will not be allowed to provide any specialised services listed on its licence, including surgical and anaesthetic procedures. At the same time, the DH has initiated the process for cancellation of the licence for the DPC concerned. Under sections 30 and 31 of the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance, the licensee will be given a 14 days’ notice and an opportunity to make representations within 10 days from the date of the notice given to the licensee before the licence is cancelled. If there is sufficient evidence, the DH will also refer the case to the relevant enforcement or professional regulatory bodies for necessary follow-up action on the suspected use of a false instrument and professional misconduct by the person involved. The DH reminds those who have undergone anaesthetic procedures, including tumescent anesthesia at the above-mentioned DPC, to seek immediate medical attention if they feel unwell. The DH will continue to closely monitor licensed private healthcare facilities to protect patient safety.”

Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 12:30

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected methamphetamine worth about $360 million (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected methamphetamine worth about $360 million (with photo)
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Hong Kong Customs seized about 680 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine with an estimated market value of about $360 million in Kwai Chung on February 10. Through risk assessment, Customs on that day inspected a seaborne consignment, arriving in Hong Kong from Mexico and declared as carrying heating panels, at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound. Upon inspection, Customs officers found the batch of suspected methamphetamine concealed inside 80 heating panels. Upon a follow-up investigation, Customs arrested a 67-year-old male consignee, claiming to be a driver, in Kwai Chung on the same day. On March 3, Customs conducted a controlled delivery operation, leading to the further arrest of two men, aged 35 and 45, who were suspected to be connected with the case in Tsuen Wan. The investigation is ongoing. Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment. Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 14:45

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Noem Praises President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Secretary Noem Praises President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

ASHINGTON – U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem issued the following statement tonight on President Donald J. Trump’s joint address to Congress: “Tonight, President Trump laid out his vision to renew the American dream. In just a few short weeks, President Trump’s immigration and border security policies have led to an all-time-low in illegal crossings at the southern border and migrants turning back before they even reach our border. “Under President Trump’s leadership, ICE has increased arrests by 627% — targeting criminal illegal aliens including murderers, rapists, child predators and drug traffickers poisoning our communities with deadly drugs. “President Trump’s message is clear: America’s borders are closed to lawbreakers. Congress must answer the President’s call to pass more funding to finish the construction of the border wall and to carry out mass deportations of criminal illegal aliens. I applaud President Trump’s commitment to put America first and to renew the American dream.”

MIL OSI USA News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NASA Awards Launch Service for Mission to Study Storm Formation

Source: NASA

NASA has selected Firefly Aerospace Inc. of Cedar Park, Texas, to provide the launch service for the agency’s Investigation of Convective Updrafts (INCUS) mission, which aims to understand why, when, and where tropical convective storms form, and why some storms produce extreme weather. The mission will launch on the company’s Alpha rocket from NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia.
The selection is part of NASA’s Venture-Class Acquisition of Dedicated and Rideshare (VADR) launch services contract. This contract allows the agency to make fixed-price indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity awards during VADR’s five-year ordering period, with a maximum total value of $300 million across all contracts.
The INCUS mission, comprised of three SmallSats flying in tight coordination, will investigate the evolution of the vertical transport of air and water by convective storms. These storms form when rapidly rising water vapor and air create towering clouds capable of producing rain, hail, and lightning. The more air and water that rise, the greater the risk of extreme weather. Convective storms are a primary source of precipitation and cause of the most severe weather on Earth.
Each satellite will have a high frequency precipitation radar that observes rapid changes in convective cloud depth and intensities. One of the three satellites also will carry a microwave radiometer to provide the spatial content of the larger scale weather observed by the radars. By flying so closely together, the satellites will use the slight differences in when they make observations to apply a novel time-differencing approach to estimate the vertical transport of convective mass.
NASA selected the INCUS mission through the agency’s Earth Venture Mission-3 solicitation and Earth System Science Pathfinder program. The principal investigator for INCUS is Susan van den Heever at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. Several NASA centers support the mission, including Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, and Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. Key satellite system components will be provided by Blue Canyon Technologies and Tendeg LLC, both in Colorado. NASA’s Launch Services Program, based at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, manages the VADR contract.
To learn more about NASA’s INCUS mission, visit:

INCUS

-end-
Tiernan DoyleHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600tiernan.doyle@nasa.gov
Patti BiellingKennedy Space Center, Florida321-501-7575patricia.a.bielling@nasa.gov

MIL OSI USA News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Station Nation: Meet Chris Wade, Visiting Vehicle Integration Manager for SpaceX Vehicles

Source: NASA

Chris Wade is a visiting vehicle integration manager for SpaceX vehicles in the International Space Station Transportation Integration Office. He plays a key role in ensuring that all vehicle requirements are on track to support SpaceX missions to the space station. Chris also manages a team of real-time mission support personnel who follow launch, docking, undocking, and splashdown operations. Read on to learn about his career with NASA and more!
Where are you from?
I am from Clarksdale, Mississippi.
Tell us about your role at NASA. 
I manage horizontal integration between the SpaceX vehicle provider and the Commercial Crew and International Space Station Programs. In this role, I work to ensure all vehicle requirements will close in time to support upcoming SpaceX missions to the orbiting laboratory and achieve final certification prior to launch. Additionally, as a vehicle integration manager, I manage a team of real-time mission support personnel who follow launch, docking, undocking, and splashdown operations.

cHRIS wade
Visiting Vehicle Integration Manager for SpaceX Vehicles

How would you describe your job to family or friends who may not be familiar with NASA? 
In my current position, I am responsible for ensuring SpaceX Dragon vehicles have met all requirements to conduct missions to the space station.
How long have you been working for NASA? 
I have been working at Johnson Space Center for 25 years.
What advice would you give to young individuals aspiring to work in the space industry or at NASA? 
I would advise young individuals to focus their studies on the STEM fields and work hard. I would also advise aspiring candidates to start applying for NASA internships as soon as feasible and don’t be opposed to opportunities in the contractor workforce.
What was your path to NASA? 
My path to NASA was through the contractor workforce. I started working in space station robotic assembly analysis for Lockheed Martin directly out of college, then later became a civil servant at NASA.
Is there someone in the space, aerospace, or science industry that motivated or inspired you to work for the space program? Or someone you discovered while working for NASA who inspires you?  
The Space Shuttle Challenger STS-51-L crew motivated me to pursue a career at NASA. I vividly remember watching the launch from an elementary classroom in Mississippi and thinking, I wish I could do something to help one day. When I got an opportunity to work at Johnson, it was a no-brainer for me to accept the offer.
What is your favorite NASA memory? 
My favorite NASA memory is when I saw my first rocket launch, which was HTV-1 in Kagoshima, Japan.

What do you love sharing about station? What’s important to get across to general audiences to help them understand its benefits to life on Earth? 
I enjoy telling people that we have a space station that has been in low Earth orbit with people on it for nearly 25 years and we rotate crews of astronauts every six months.
If you could have dinner with any astronaut, past or present, who would it be? 
I would have dinner with NASA astronaut Ron McNair. Growing up in a small southern town, my path to NASA was very similar to his. I find it fascinating how individuals from different eras can end up on similar paths in life, and I would love to have a conversation with him about the choices he made that lead to his career as an astronaut.
Do you have a favorite space-related memory or moment that stands out to you? 
My favorite space-related memory is watching the SpaceX Demo-2 Crew Mission arrive at the International Space Station. That was the first launch of NASA astronauts from American soil since the Space Shuttle Program had ended almost 10 years prior.
What are some of the key projects you’ve worked on during your time at NASA? What have been your favorite?  
Some of the key projects I’ve worked on include:

Robotic assembly of the International Space Station

Robotic visiting vehicle capture

Cargo and crew dragon visiting vehicle mission certification

Of these, my favorite was the robotic visiting vehicle capture project. For this project, I got to work with the Canadian Space Agency and develop a method of using the space station’s robotic arm to grab unmanned visiting resupply vehicles.

What are your hobbies/things you enjoy outside of work? 
Some of my favorite hobbies include running, reading, listening to audio books, and visiting family and friends back in Mississippi.
Day launch or night launch?  
Day launch!
Favorite space movie? 
Armageddon
NASA “worm” or “meatball” logo? 
Worm

Every day, we’re conducting exciting research aboard our orbiting laboratory that will help us explore further into space and bring benefits back to people on Earth. You can keep up with the latest news, videos, and pictures about space station science on the Station Research & Technology news page. It’s a curated hub of space station research digital media from Johnson and other centers and space agencies.
Sign up for our weekly email newsletter to get the updates delivered directly to you.
Follow updates on social media at @ISS_Research on Twitter, and on the space station accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FARMing with Data: OpenET Launches new Tool for Farmers and Ranchers

Source: NASA

A NASA and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)-supported research and development team is making it easier for farmers and ranchers to manage their water resources.
The team, called OpenET, created the Farm and Ranch Management Support (FARMS) tool, which puts timely, high-resolution water data directly in the hands of individuals and small farm operators. By making the information more accessible, the platform can better support decision-making around agricultural planning, water conservation, and water efficiency. The OpenET team hopes this will help farmers who are working to build greater resiliency in local and regional agriculture communities. build greater resiliency in local and regional agriculture communities.
“It’s all about finding new ways to make satellite data easier to access and use for as many people as possible,” said Forrest Melton, the OpenET project scientist at NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley. “The goal is to empower users with actionable, science-based data to support decisions about water management across the West.”

Forrest melton
OpenET Project Scientist

The OpenET data explorer tool centers on providing evapotranspiration data. Evapotranspiration (ET) refers to the amount of water leaving Earth’s surface and returning to the atmosphere through evaporation (from soil and surface water) and transpiration (water vapor released by crops and other plants). Evapotranspiration is an important factor in agriculture, water resource management, irrigation planning, drought monitoring, and fire risk evaluation.
The FARMS resource is the third phase of OpenET’s Data Explorer tool, launched in 2021, which uses satellite data to quantify evapotranspiration across the western U.S.
It starts with using Landsat data to measure patterns in land surface temperature and key indicators of vegetation conditions. The satellite data is combined with agricultural data, such as field boundaries, and weather data, such as air temperature, humidity, solar radiation, wind speed, and precipitation. All of these factors feed into a model, which calculates the final evapotranspiration data.
The new FARMS interface was designed to make that data easier to access, with features that meet specific needs identified by users.
“This amount of data can be complicated to use, so user input helped us shape FARMS,” said Jordan Harding, app developer and interface design leader from HabitatSeven. “It provides a mobile-friendly, map-based web interface designed to make it easy as possible to get automated, regular reports.”

“The FARMS tool is designed to help farmers optimize irrigation timing and amounts, simplify planning for the upcoming irrigation season, and automate ET and water use reporting,” said Sara Larsen, CEO of OpenET. “All of this reduces waste, lowers costs, and informs crop planning.”
Although FARMS is geared towards agriculture, the tool has value for other audiences in the western U.S. Land managers who evaluate the impacts of wildfire can use it to evaluate burn scars and changes to local hydrology. Similarly, resource managers can track evapotranspiration changes over time to evaluate the effectiveness of different forest management plans.

To develop FARMS, the OpenET team held listening sessions with farmers, ranchers, and resource managers. One requested function was support for field-to-field comparisons; a feature for planning irrigation needs and identifying problem areas, like where pests or weeds may be impacting crop yields.
The tool includes numerous options for drawing or selecting field boundaries, generating custom reports based on selected models and variables, and automatically re-running reports at daily or monthly intervals.
The fine spatial resolution and long OpenET data record behind FARMS make these features more effective. Many existing global ET data products have a pixel size of over half a mile, which is too big to be practical for most farmers and ranchers. The FARMS interface provides insights at the scale of a quarter-acre per pixel, which offers multiple data points within an individual field.
“If I had told my father about this 15 years ago, he would have called me crazy,” said Dwane Roth, a fourth-generation farmer in Kansas. “Thanks to OpenET, I can now monitor water loss from my crops in real-time. By combining it with data from our soil moisture probes, this tool is enabling us to produce more food with less water. It’s revolutionizing agriculture.”

For those like sixth-generation California pear farmer Brett Baker, the 25-year span of ET data is part of what makes the tool so valuable. “My family has been farming the same crop on the same piece of ground for over 150 years,” Baker said. “Using FARMS gives us the ability to review historical trends and changes to understand what worked and what didn’t year to year: maybe I need to apply more fertilizer to that field, or better weed control to another. Farmers know their land, and FARMS provides a new tool that will allow us to make better use of land and resources.”
According to Roth, the best feature of the tool is intangible. “Being a farmer is stressful,” Roth said. “OpenET is beneficial for the farm and the agronomic decisions, but I think the best thing it gives me is peace of mind.”

Dwane Roth
Fourth-Generation Kansas Grain Farmer

Over the coming months, the OpenET team plans to present the new tool at agricultural conferences and conventions in order to gather feedback from as many users as possible. “We know that there is already a demand for a seven-day forecast of ET, and I’m sure there will be requests about the interface itself,” said OpenET senior software engineer Will Carrara. “We’re definitely looking to the community to help us further refine that platform.”
“I think there are many applications we haven’t even thought of yet,” Baker added. “The FARMS interface isn’t just a tool; it’s an entirely new toolbox itself. I’m excited to see what people do with it.”

FARMS was developed through a public-private collaboration led by NASA, USGS, USDA, the non-profit OpenET, Inc., Desert Research Institute, Environmental Defense Fund, Google Earth Engine, HabitatSeven, California State University Monterey Bay, Chapman University, Cornell University, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, UC Berkeley and other universities, with input from more than 100 stakeholders.

For resources/tutorials on how to use FARMS, please visit: https://openet.gitbook.io/docs/additional-resources/farms

MIL OSI USA News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – KAMAʻĀINA ARTISTS SELECTED FOR RESIDENCY PROGRAM, March 4, 2025
Source: US State of Hawaii

DLNR News Release – KAMAʻĀINA ARTISTS SELECTED FOR RESIDENCY PROGRAM, March 4, 2025

Posted on Mar 4, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

STATE OF HAWAIʻI

KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

KA ʻOIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR

KE KIAʻĀINA

DAWN CHANG

CHAIR

KAMAʻĀINA ARTISTS SELECTED FOR RESIDENCY PROGRAM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 4, 2025

HONOLULU – Four artists have been selected as the state of Hawaiʻiʻs Climate Artists in Residence. The innovative programseeks to engage local artists in the co-development of Hawaiʻi’s Climate Action Pathways (CAP) through creating works across a range of artistic media. The awardees stood out from a competitive applicant pool of 65 artists representing a range of media from throughout Hawaiʻi.

The selected artists will each receive a stipend of $5,000, plus $2,000 for materials.

They are:
- Keisha Tanaka, an ʻōiwi photographer whose works capture the intimate moments that weave together the rich tapestry of her community’s stories.
- Benjamin Fairfield, an educator whose work turns trash into music and musical instruments, reminding us that everything we attempt to cast away has potential, worth, and purpose.
- Gillian Dueñas, a Chamoru painter who uses art to connect with her ancestors and homeland while in the diaspora.
- Erin Voss, a designer whose work visualizes the complex relationships between communities and ecosystems.
“The response to this call was truly stunning,” said Leah Laramee, State Climate Coordinator. “Our goal is to co-develop the CAP in a manner that speaks to people, and it is clear that art is one of those pathways.” Through art, this unique program aims to inspire and connect Hawaiʻi residents to critical climate change challenges.

The artists will engage in the development of key topics from the CAP, including cultural knowledge, land stewardship, energy efficiency, transportation decarbonization, and community resilience.

“The secure future of Indigenous communities is my priority. Discussions about climate change can be very traumatizing and anxiety inducing for our peoples, so I use art as a medicine and tool for instilling hope. I am thrilled to be working with native, Pasifika, local, county, and state organizations to continue doing this work,” said Gillian Dueñas, one of the selected artists. “Our Pasifika ancestors have always been innovators and visionaries, and art is the legacy that they have left for us to inherit and use as a tool to sustain our peoples.”

Artists will participate in subject matter meetings throughout the year and will have the chance to visit related projects on the ground. The finished artworks will be exhibited at the Capitol Modern, the Hawaiʻi State Art Museum in Honolulu, from October 1-31, 2025. This project, in partnership with the University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Program, aligns with the CCMAC’s mission to promote ambitious, climate-neutral, and culturally responsive strategies for climate change adaptation and mitigation in Hawaiʻi.

# # #

RESOURCES

(All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

Photographs – Artists and artwork: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/4g21yhcltn1wk7n3ya3yz/AMWSCZ0Xp7sFaJr0Gxt5biI?rlkey=fw9r26vboticm3ov1udb5gml5&st=xtrukabs&dl=0

For full application details and more information on the artists and the work of CCMAC, go to CCMAC’s website at: https://climate.hawaii.gov/art/

For more information about the CAP, please contact: Udi Mandel Butler, Climate Action Program Manager at CCMAC, [email protected]

Media contact:

Patti Jette

Communications Specialist

Hawai‘i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

Phone: 808-587-0396

Email: [email protected]

MIL OSI USA News –
March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: 2025-33 WALGREENS AGREES TO NEARLY $98 MILLION SETTLEMENT TO RESOLVE ALLEGATIONS IT BILLED THE GOVERNMENT FOR UNCOLLECTED PRESCRIPTIONS

Source: US State of Hawaii

2025-33 WALGREENS AGREES TO NEARLY $98 MILLION SETTLEMENT TO RESOLVE ALLEGATIONS IT BILLED THE GOVERNMENT FOR UNCOLLECTED PRESCRIPTIONS

Posted on Mar 4, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

STATE OF HAWAIʻI

KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR

KE KIAʻĀINA

ANNE LOPEZ

ATTORNEY GENERAL

LOIO KUHINA

WALGREENS AGREES TO PAY NEARLY $98 MILLION TO RESOLVE ALLEGATIONS IT BILLED THE GOVERNMENT FOR UNCOLLECTED PRESCRIPTIONS

News Release 2025-33

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 4, 2025

HONOLULU – Attorney General Anne Lopez announced today that the state of Hawai‘i has joined the 49 other attorneys general in a settlement against Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. and Walgreen Co. (together, Walgreens). Under the terms of the agreement, Walgreens — which operates one of the largest retail pharmacy chains in the country from its headquarters in Deerfield, Illinois — will pay $97.8 million to resolve allegations that it unlawfully billed government health care programs for prescriptions that were never collected or otherwise received by patients.

The settlement agreement will resolve allegations set forth in two qui tam lawsuits: the Turck Civil Action (United States ex rel. Turck, et al. v. Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc., et al., No. 4:19-cv-315 (E.D. Tex. filed Apr. 26, 2019)); and the Jacob Civil Action(United States, et al. ex rel. Jacob v. Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc., No. 8:20-cv-858-T-60TGW (M.D. Fla. filed Apr. 23, 2020)). These lawsuits specifically allege that between 2009 and 2020, Walgreens unlawfully billed Medicare, Medicaid, and other government health care programs for prescriptions drugs that were never picked up by beneficiaries. As a result of this unlawful conduct, Walgreens received tens of millions of dollars for uncollected prescriptions that it never actually provided to patients.

After the suits were filed, Walgreens implemented enhancements to its billing systems designed to prevent any future unlawful billing for uncollected prescriptions. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Walgreens received credit for self-disclosing certain claims, and for previously refunding $66.3 million in connection with the settled claims. The total recovery for all Medicaid programs under the settlement is $9.6 million. Of that amount, Hawai‘i will receive $3,524.83 in recoveries.

A National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units (NAMFCU) Team investigated the allegations in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Justice and United States Attorneys’ Offices in Texas and Florida. The NAMFCU Team included representatives from the respective Office of the Attorney General for the states of Wisconsin, California, Texas, Maine, Oregon and Massachusetts.

Landon M.M. Murata, the Director of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (Hawai‘i MFCU), under the Department of the Attorney General, and Judy Mohr Peterson, Ph.D., Med-QUEST Division Administrator at the Department of Human Services, entered into the settlement agreement on behalf of the state of Hawai‘i.

“This is a significant win in the fight against healthcare fraud in our country. We appreciate all the hard work and dedication of our federal and state partners who made this settlement possible. It is important that remain vigilant to ensure that taxpayer dollars dedicated to supporting our critical healthcare programs like Medicaid, are not being squandered.” said Hawaiʻi MFCU Director Murata.

The Hawai‘i MFCU is a specialized unit within the Department of the Attorney General that is charged with conducting criminal and civil investigations and prosecutions of (1) provider fraud against the Medicaid Program, (2) fraud in the administration of the Medicaid Program, and (3) abuse and neglect of Medicaid beneficiaries and residents of board and care facilities throughout the state of Hawai‘i.

The Walgreens settlement agreement with Hawaiʻi can be found here.

# # #

Media contacts:

Dave Day

Special Assistant to the Attorney General

Office: 808-586-1284

Email: [email protected]

Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

Toni Schwartz
Public Information Officer
Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General
Office: 808-586-1252
Cell: 808-379-9249
Email: [email protected]

Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

MIL OSI USA News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI: Victor Ciardelli Appoints Shant Banosian as President of Rate Mortgage while Continuing as CEO and President of All Rate Companies

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CHICAGO, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Victor Ciardelli proudly announces the appointment of Shant Banosian as President of Rate Mortgage. With Rate Mortgage being the last Rate company without a dedicated president—Banosian will partner with Ciardelli to help take Rate Mortgage to the next level of innovation and excellence in the industry. Ciardelli will continue to work closely with the Presidents of all 15 Rate Companies, reinforcing Rate’s status as one of the nation’s top mortgage lenders and a pioneer in fintech and holistic financial wellness.

Welcomed Partnership & Help

As CEO and President of Rate Companies, Ciardelli is known for industry innovation and transformation, starting with the release of the first Digital Mortgage, most recently the Same Day Mortgage, and many other industry transformations. Ciardelli is a student of using technology and streamlining business operations to provide better products, service, and pricing to the consumer.

The 15 Presidents, who oversee 10 mortgage companies, two AI technology companies, a title company, an insurance company, and the personal lending group, will continue to report to and work directly with Ciardelli as he partners with Banosian to elevate Rate Mortgage into the premier mortgage company in the industry.

Ciardelli described Banosian’s appointment as a pivotal moment for the company, “There is no one in the industry that I would rather partner with than Shant. He is a transformative leader whose relentless drive, strategic mindset, and commitment to excellence have set a new standard in the mortgage industry. He embodies the best of Rate’s culture and values, and we are partnering to take Rate Mortgage to the next level. His expertise and vision will inspire the Rate team and the entire industry.”

Ciardelli added, “At Rate, we never stand still and are never satisfied. Our mission is to push boundaries, relentlessly innovate, and empower our customers, loan officers, and referral partners with the best technology and platform in the industry. With Shant joining me in top leadership, we’re doubling down on our vision to make homeownership more cost-effective, faster, smarter, and more accessible than ever.”

A Proven Leader in the Mortgage Industry

Over the past two decades, Banosian has funded over $10 billion in total loan volume and secured his place as the top loan officer in the U.S. over the past six consecutive years. In 2024, Banosian funded over $1B in volume as the #1 loan officer in the country. Ciardelli describes Banosian as “the Best of the Best in the industry.” He continues, “There is not a better loan professional on the planet to lead Rate Mortgage to its next level of dominance. He is a leader and a teacher all in one and will build the best team of Loan Officers in the industry. Elevating Shant Banosian as President of Rate Mortgage is a natural progression of our shared ambition and complementary strengths, positioning Rate for accelerated growth and reinforcing its industry leadership.”

Banosian, who has closed over 40,000 loans, firmly believes in education-based lending, customer-first service, and intelligent business scaling. As President of Rate Mortgage, his focus will be on driving innovation, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering an environment he describes as a “Loan Officer’s Paradise”—a place where professionals have everything they need to thrive and best serve their customers in a rapidly evolving market; a place where a loan officer can easily double and triple their business while better serving their customers; a place that optimally serves our aspiring and existing homeowners, Realtors, and business partners.

Banosian has built a record-breaking career focusing on strategic growth, operational efficiency, and exceptional customer service. His ability to adapt to market shifts, leverage technology, and lead high-performing teams has made him one of the most respected figures in the mortgage industry. “The mortgage industry is evolving fast, and I am excited to build on Victor Ciardelli’s amazing vision and lead Rate Mortgage into the future,” said Banosian. “We are committed to empowering customers, real estate professionals, and loan officers with the ultimate tools, education, and service available, ensuring that every interaction exceeds expectations.”

A Passion for Giving Back
Beyond his professional success, Banosian is deeply committed to philanthropy and community impact. He actively supports a range of charitable organizations, including:

• The Rate Foundation: Providing financial assistance to individuals and families facing unexpected hardships—a cause Banosian has personally supported since the foundation’s inception.
• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: Supporting the fight against childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases, with over $500,000 raised through team efforts.
• The Greater Boston Food Bank: Working to end hunger and provide healthy meals for families in need.
• Soles4Souls: Turning unwanted shoes and clothing into opportunities for people in need worldwide.

“Giving back is not just a responsibility, but an important core value of Victor and the company culture,” Banosian said. “It is a privilege to give back, and it is a core part of who we are at Rate.”

About Rate

Rate Companies is a leader in mortgage lending and digital financial services. Headquartered in Chicago, Rate has over 850 branches across all 50 states and Washington D.C. Since its launch in 2000, Rate has helped more than 2 million homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances. The company has cemented itself as an industry leader by introducing innovative technology, offering low rates, and delivering unparalleled customer service. Honors and awards include Best Mortgage Lender for First-Time Homebuyers by NerdWallet for 2023; HousingWire’s Tech100 award for the company’s industry-leading FlashClose℠ digital mortgage platform in 2020, MyAccount in 2022, and Language Access Program in 2023; the most Scotsman Guide Top Originators for 11 consecutive years; Chicago Agent Magazine’s Lender of the Year for seven consecutive years; and Chicago Tribune’s Top Workplaces list for seven straight years. Visit rate.com for more information.

Media Contact

press@rate.com

The MIL Network –

March 6, 2025

MIL-OSI: Next Week: HackerRank’s AI Day Returns, Featuring Tech Hiring Insights, Innovation Showcase, Sessions from GitHub, Perplexity and More

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CUPERTINO, Calif., March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

WHO:	HackerRank, the Developer Skills Company
WHAT:	Will spotlight the transformational power of human-first AI during its annual AI Day virtual event.
WHEN:	Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at noon ET
WHERE:	For event information, including registration details, visit https://www.hackerrank.com/ai-day.

DETAILS:

With AI setting new standards of innovation across the tech industry, accelerating the pace of change and redefining the role of developers, many companies are having difficulty keeping pace with the expectations of this critical talent pool. HackerRank’s AI Day will take a deep dive into the potential of human-first AI strategies, highlighting the evolving role of AI in tech hiring and skill development.

Following the opening keynote from CEO Vivek Ravisankar, attendees will have the chance to experience HackerRank’s latest AI innovations, from AI proctored coding assessments to unlocking new career opportunities in tech. Helping to drive the Human + AI revolution, HackerRank’s AI Day will also feature sessions with Thomas Dohmke, CEO of GitHub and Aravind Srinivas, CEO of Perplexity AI. Offering his insider perspective, Dohmke will consider how AI is influencing software development trends and reshaping engineer workflows and what this means for the tech industry. In a fireside chat, Ravisankar and Srinivas will discuss how AI-powered knowledge systems are impacting real-world decision-making for individuals and businesses.

HackerRank’s AI Day is designed for developers as well as tech and talent leaders. To register, visit https://www.hackerrank.com/ai-day.

About HackerRank
HackerRank, the Developer Skills Company, leads the market with over 2,500 customers and a community of over 25 million developers. Having pioneered this space, companies trust HackerRank to help them set up a skills strategy, showcase their brand to developers, implement a skills-based hiring process, and ultimately upskill and certify employees…all driven by AI. Learn more at hackerrank.com.

The MIL Network –

March 6, 2025

MIL-OSI: NuVista Energy Ltd. Announces Record Year End 2024 Reserves, Financial and Operating Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CALGARY, Alberta, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NuVista Energy Ltd. (“NuVista” or the “Company“) (TSX: NVA) is pleased to announce record-setting reserves and strong financial and operating results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024. The repeatable, predictable and profitable nature of our assets have once again underpinned significant growth in our reserves. Continued success in the Lower Montney and sanctioning of our Gold Creek area expansion have set the stage for continued growth toward 125,000 Boe/d. We are entering 2025 in a strong financial position with operational momentum and a commitment to shareholder returns. We are pleased to reaffirm our annual capital and production guidance for the year.

Operational and Financial Highlights

During the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2024, NuVista:

Produced an average of 85,635 Boe/d in the fourth quarter, exceeding our guidance range of 83,000 – 84,000 Boe/d. We achieved our highest-ever annual average production of 83,084 Boe/d, an 8% increase from 2023. Annual production composition aligned with guidance, with a volume weighting of 30% condensate, 9% NGLs and 61% natural gas;

Successfully executed a capital expenditure⁽²⁾ program, investing $498.9 million in well and facility activities, including the drilling of 43 wells and the completion of 38 wells throughout the year. Fourth quarter, capital expenditures totaled $71.1 million, with 9 wells drilled;

Delivered annual adjusted funds flow⁽¹⁾ of $552.2 million ($2.68/share, basic⁽³⁾), with adjusted funds flow from the fourth quarter contributing $137.1 million ($0.67/share, basic);

Generated free adjusted funds flow⁽²⁾ of $39.6 million for the year ($0.19/share, basic⁽³⁾);

Repurchased and cancelled 5.9 million common shares in 2024 at an average price of $12.52 per common share, for a total cost of $74.4 million. Since the inception of the Company’s normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”) in 2022, we have repurchased and cancelled 36.5 million common shares for an aggregate cost of $438.3 million or $12.01 per share;

Exited the year with $5.4 million drawn on our $450 million credit facility and net debt⁽¹⁾ of $232.5 million, maintaining a favorable net debt to annualized fourth quarter adjusted funds flow⁽¹⁾ ratio of 0.4x;

Achieved annual net earnings of $305.7 million ($1.48/share, basic), including $99.2 million ($0.48/share, basic) in the fourth quarter;

Added LNG sales to our natural gas diversification portfolio by gaining exposure to the Japan/Korea marker (“JKM”) through a netback agreement with Trafigura based on 21,000 MMbtu/d of LNG for a period of up to thirteen years commencing January 1, 2027; and

Recognized as part of the TSX30 for the third consecutive year. The TSX30 recognizes the thirty top-performing companies on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) over the prior three-year period (see www.tsx.com/tsx30). We ranked a notable sixth place overall.

Notes:

(1)	Each of “adjusted funds flow”, “net debt” and “net debt to annualized fourth quarter adjusted funds flow” are capital management measures. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” in this press release.
(2)	Each of “free adjusted funds flow” and “capital expenditures” are non-GAAP financial measures that do not have any standardized meanings under IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” in this press release.
(3)	Each of “adjusted funds flow per share” and “free adjusted funds flow per share” are supplementary financial measures. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” in this press release.

Significant Profitable and Repeatable Reserves Growth

NuVista is pleased to announce the results of our year end 2024 independent reserves evaluation conducted by GLJ Ltd. (“GLJ”) effective as at December 31, 2024 (the “GLJ Report”). NuVista’s proven track record of continuous improvement, along with the substantial depth and quality of our undeveloped resources, reinforces our ability to deliver sustained shareholder returns in our journey to 125,000 Boe/d.

Our GLJ Report includes the following key accomplishments:

Reported Proved Developed Producing (“PDP”) reserves of 177.3 MMBoe, a year-over-year increase of 9%, or a 12% increase on a per share basis, driven by a successful 2024 development program and 2% positive technical revisions due to new well outperformance;

Recorded Total Proved plus Probable (“TP+PA”) reserves of 779.7 MMBoe, a year-over-year increase of 21%, or a 24% increase on a per share basis, attributed to the continued success in NuVista’s multi-layer Montney development in Pipestone and successful Lower and Upper Montney delineation in Wapiti;

Replaced 150% and 550% of 2024 production on a PDP and TP+PA basis⁽¹⁾, respectively, reflecting the success of our 2024 capital program and continued expansion of our undeveloped location inventory;

Delivered PDP Finding, Development and Acquisition Cost (“FD&A”)⁽¹⁾ of $11.13/Boe that exceeded our expectations due to well outperformance and cost reductions;

Achieved a PDP recycle ratio⁽¹⁾ of 1.8x based on our 2024 operating netback⁽¹⁾;

TP+PA FD&A was $6.97/Boe, driven by the planned expansion of our infrastructure to 125,000 Boe/d and a 26% increase in undeveloped TP+PA drilling locations;

Total developed wells increased by 42 to 395, while the total undeveloped drilling locations increased by 9 to 1,189, which reflects over 25 years of development at the current pace⁽³⁾; and

PDP, TP, and TP+PA before-tax net present value, discounted at 10% (NPV10)⁽²⁾, are $10.01, $20.56, and $30.11 per share, respectively, at December 31, 2024, reflecting the underlying value of our assets.

Notes:

(1)	Each of “reserve replacement”, “FD&A costs”, “recycle ratio” and “operating netback” are non-GAAP financial ratios. See “Oil and Gas Advisories” and “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” in this press release for information relating to these specified financial measures.
(2)	Reference to “net present value per share” is a supplementary financial measure. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” in this press release.
(3)	Total undeveloped locations include 422 undeveloped proved plus probable drilling locations and 767 undeveloped contingent resource drilling locations. See “Oil and Gas Advisories”.

The detailed summary of our year end 2024 reserves disclosure and other oil and gas information is included below, and further information will be included in our Annual Information Form which will be filed on or before March 28, 2025 on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Return of Capital to Shareholders and Balance Sheet Strength

NuVista’s approach to capital allocation is focused on the compounding effect of absolute growth and a reduction in our outstanding common shares to produce industry leading total returns. We intend to allocate a minimum of $100 million in 2025, to the repurchase of the Company’s common shares pursuant to our NCIB and will allocate at least 75% of any incremental free adjusted funds flow towards additional share repurchases.

We ended the year in a position of low debt and significant financial flexibility. As at December 31, 2024, our net debt was $232.5 million, well below our soft ceiling of approximately $350 million. We were minimally drawn on our $450 million covenant-based credit facility, at $5.4 million, with a net debt to annualized fourth quarter adjusted funds flow ratio of 0.4x. The net debt soft ceiling ensures that based on current production levels, our net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio remains at or below 1.0x in a stress test price environment of US$45/Bbl WTI and US$2.00/MMBtu NYMEX.

We remain focused on our disciplined and value-adding growth strategy, and providing significant shareholder returns. We continue to view share repurchases as the most effective initial method of returning capital to shareholders and will reassess this approach as our growth plan progresses.

Operations and 2025 Guidance

Operations through the end of the year and into the first quarter of 2025 have progressed well. Consistent utilization of our two drilling rigs continues to pay dividends with new spud to rig release records being set. Completion operations kicked off again in January and despite extremely frigid temperatures, pumping efficiency has come in better than planned. With strong execution thus far in 2025 capital costs are trending below budget and we are forecasting a well cost reduction of 3% year-over-year.

In Wapiti, we brought on a 5-well pad in Bilbo in January, which targeted three benches, including a Lower Montney, initial results from the pad are encouraging and in-line with expectations. We have finished drilling a 5-well pad in Elmworth, which is slated to come on-stream during the second quarter. In Gold Creek we are drilling a 4-well pad, including two Lower Montney wells, which is expected to come on-stream later in the second quarter. Notably, the 6-well pad between Gold Creek and Elmworth, which was co-developed across the entire stack of 4 zones, has reached its IP90 milestone producing on average 1,500 Boe/d per well, including 33% condensate. Importantly, the Lower Montney has performed in-line with the other benches. In Pipestone, we are completing a 14-well pad that is expected to come on-stream in the second quarter. Additionally, we are drilling an 8-well pad that is expected to come on-stream in the third quarter.

Production in January and February has been trending favorably, we forecast first quarter production to average 87,000 – 88,000 Boe/d. As exhibited above we have material production additions slated to come on-line in the coming months. As previously communicated, the majority of our 2025 growth will come from the Pipestone area with the start-up of a third-party gas plant (“Pipestone Plant”), which is expected to be online during the second quarter. The Pipestone Plant will unlock approximately 8,000 – 10,000 Boe/d of additional productive capacity for NuVista. Given the performance of our base assets and current outlook, we anticipate our annual production to average approximately 92,000 Boe/d, assuming a second quarter start-up of the Pipestone Plant. If this start-up is delayed into the fourth quarter of the year, our expected annual average production will be approximately 88,000 Boe/d. Consequently, this range allows us to reiterate our annual production guidance of approximately 90,000 Boe/d.

Further we reaffirm our annual capital expenditure guidance target of approximately $450 million, which will allow us to continue to prioritize at least a triple-digit return of capital to shareholders through the repurchase of our outstanding common shares.

We are fortunate that our business has the flexibility, superior asset quality and underlying balance sheet strength to afford this. We intend to continue our track record of carefully directing free adjusted funds flow towards a prudent balance of capital return to shareholders and debt reduction, while investing in high return growth projects. NuVista’s top quality asset base, deep inventory, and management’s relentless focus on value maximization supports our medium-term plans for value-adding growth to the plateau level of 125,000 Boe/d. We will continue to closely monitor and adjust to the environment to maximize the value of our asset base and ensure the long-term sustainability of our business. We would like to thank our staff, contractors, and suppliers for their continued dedication and delivery, and we thank our Board of Directors and our shareholders for their continued guidance and support.

The 2025 guidance does not include any potential impact of tariffs or trade-related regulations that have been announced by the U.S. and Canada, including the tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canada effective March 4, 2025. See “Advisory regarding forward-looking information and statements”. Please note that our corporate presentation will be available at www.nuvistaenergy.com on March 5, 2025. NuVista’s audited financial statements, notes to the financial statements and management’s discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024, will be filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) on March 5, 2025 and can also be obtained at www.nuvistaenergy.com.


FINANCIAL AND OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS
	Three months ended December 31						Year ended December 31
($ thousands, except otherwise stated)	2024		2023		% Change		2024		2023		% Change
FINANCIAL
Petroleum and natural gas revenues	281,454		365,497		(23	)	1,215,234		1,398,097		(13	)
Cash provided by operating activities	135,831		211,761		(36	)	600,253		721,342		(17	)
Adjusted funds flow ⁽³⁾⁽⁷⁾	137,059		201,987		(32	)	552,196		756,943		(27	)
Per share, basic ⁽⁶⁾	0.67		0.95		(29	)	2.68		3.50		(23	)
Per share, diluted ⁽⁶⁾	0.66		0.93		(29	)	2.64		3.40		(22	)
Net earnings	99,152		89,513		11		305,718		367,678		(17	)
Per share, basic	0.48		0.42		14		1.48		1.70		(13	)
Per share, diluted	0.48		0.41		17		1.46		1.65		(12	)
Total assets							3,450,419		3,058,053		13
Net capital expenditures ⁽¹⁾	71,090		113,258		(37	)	498,876		518,294		(4	)
Net debt ⁽³⁾							232,503		183,551		27
OPERATING
Daily Production
Natural gas (MMcf/d)	327.1		310.5		5		304.3		276.0		10
Condensate (Bbls/d)	22,657		26,889		(16	)	24,709		24,633		—
NGLs (Bbls/d)	8,455		7,287		16		7,661		6,545		17
Total (Boe/d)	85,635		85,924		—		83,084		77,185		8
Condensate & NGLs weighting	36	%	40	%			39	%	40	%
Condensate weighting ⁽⁸⁾	26	%	31	%			30	%	32	%
Average realized selling prices ⁽⁵⁾
Natural gas ($/Mcf)	2.78		3.45		(19	)	2.51		4.19		(40	)
Condensate ($/Bbl)	83.58		99.20		(16	)	94.83		100.02		(5	)
NGLs ($/Bbl) ⁽⁴⁾	30.38		32.46		(6	)	27.86		31.80		(12	)
Netbacks ($/Boe)
Petroleum and natural gas revenues ⁽⁷⁾	35.72		46.24		(23	)	39.96		49.62		(19	)
Realized gain on financial derivatives	1.75		0.46		280		0.86		0.41		110
Other income	0.01		—		—		0.11		—		—
Royalties ⁽⁷⁾	(3.13	)	(4.50	)	(30	)	(4.30	)	(4.80	)	(10	)
Transportation expense	(4.57	)	(4.54	)	1		(4.78	)	(4.77	)	—
Net operating expense ⁽²⁾	(11.07	)	(10.65	)	4		(11.37	)	(11.40	)	—
Operating netback ⁽²⁾	18.71		27.01		(31	)	20.48		29.06		(30	)
Corporate netback ⁽²⁾	17.40		25.55		(32	)	18.15		26.86		(32	)
SHARE TRADING STATISTICS
High ($/share)	14.18		13.72		3		14.86		13.72		8
Low ($/share)	10.34		10.40		(1	)	9.59		9.93		(3	)
Close ($/share)	13.82		11.04		25		13.82		11.04		25
Common shares outstanding (thousands of shares)							203,701		207,584		(2	)

NOTES:

⁽¹⁾	Non-GAAP financial measure that does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Specified Financial Measures”.
⁽²⁾	Non-GAAP ratio that does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Specified Financial Measures”.
⁽³⁾	Capital management measure. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Specified Financial Measures”.
⁽⁴⁾	Natural gas liquids (“NGLs”) includes butane, propane and ethane revenue and sales volumes, and sulphur revenue.
⁽⁵⁾	Product prices exclude realized gains/losses on financial derivatives.
⁽⁶⁾	Supplementary financial measure. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Specified Financial Measures”.
⁽⁷⁾	Includes the impact of a facility allocation adjustment, which impacted condensate revenues, royalties and transportation expense, reducing adjusted funds flow by $23.1 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024.
⁽⁸⁾	Includes the impact of a facility allocation adjustment. Excluding this adjustment, NuVista’s condensate weighting for the three months ended December 31, 2024 was 28%.

DETAILED SUMMARY OF CORPORATE RESERVES DATA

The following table provides summary reserve information based upon the GLJ Report using the published 3 Consultants’ Average January 1, 2025 price forecast:

	Natural Gas⁽²⁾	Natural Gas Liquids⁽⁴⁾	Oil⁽³⁾	Total
Reserves category⁽¹⁾⁽⁵⁾	Company Gross	Company Gross	Company Gross	Company Gross
	(MMcf)	(MBbls)	(MBbls)	(MBoe)
Proved
Developed producing	680,168	63,913	–	177,275
Developed non‑producing	93,825	10,140	–	25,777
Undeveloped	938,058	86,693	–	243,036
Total proved	1,712,051	160,747	–	446,088
Total probable	1,313,477	114,729	–	333,642
Total proved plus probable	3,025,528	275,475	–	779,730

NOTES:

⁽¹⁾	Numbers may not add due to rounding.
⁽²⁾	Includes conventional natural gas and shale gas.
⁽³⁾	Includes light and medium crude oil.
⁽⁴⁾	NGLs includes ethane, propane, butane, condensate and pentane plus.
⁽⁵⁾	Reserves have been presented on gross basis which are the Company’s total working interest share before the deduction of any royalties and without including any royalty interests of the Company.

The following table is a summary reconciliation of the year end working interest reserves for 2024, with the year end working interest reserves for 2023:

Company Gross	Natural Gas⁽¹⁾⁽³⁾ (MMcf)		Natural Gas Liquids⁽¹⁾⁽⁵⁾ (MBbls)		Oil⁽¹⁾⁽⁴⁾ (MBbls)		Total Oil Equivalent⁽¹⁾ (MBoe)
Total proved
Balance, December 31, 2023	1,546,471		144,132		–		401,877
Exploration and development⁽²⁾	234,672		24,335		–		63,447
Technical revisions	30,118		2,912		11		7,942
Acquisitions	18,123		1,720		–		4,741
Dispositions	(156	)	(18	)	–		(44	)
Economic Factors	(5,809	)	(498	)	–		(1,466	)
Production	(111,368	)	(11,837	)	(11	)	(30,409	)
Balance, December 31, 2024	1,712,051		160,747		–		446,088
Total proved plus probable
Balance, December 31, 2023	2,505,894		225,374		–		643,023
Exploration and development⁽²⁾	597,808		57,452		–		157,087
Technical revisions	12,434		2,496		11		4,579
Acquisitions	22,817		2,161		–		5,964
Dispositions	(201	)	(22	)	–		(56	)
Economic Factors	(1,857	)	(148	)	–		(458	)
Production	(111,368	)	(11,837	)	(11	)	(30,409	)
Balance, December 31, 2024	3,025,528		275,475		–		779,730

NOTES:

⁽¹⁾	Numbers may not add due to rounding.
⁽²⁾	Reserve additions for drilling extensions, infill drilling and improved recovery.
⁽³⁾	Includes conventional natural gas and shale gas.
⁽⁴⁾	Includes light and medium crude oil.
⁽⁵⁾	NGLs includes ethane, propane, butane, condensate and pentane plus.

The following table summarizes the future development capital required to bring undeveloped reserves and proved plus probable undeveloped reserves on production:

($ thousands, undiscounted)	Proved Producing⁽¹⁾	Proved⁽¹⁾	Proved plus Probable⁽¹⁾
2025	10,000	270,190	283,615
2026	–	441,337	441,337
2027	–	378,915	378,915
2028	–	582,820	623,529
2029	–	210,425	385,690
Remaining	–	–	1,205,057
Total (undiscounted)	10,000	1,883,686	3,318,141

NOTE:

⁽¹⁾	Numbers may not add due to rounding.

The following table outlines NuVista’s corporate finding, development and acquisition (“FD&A”) costs in more detail:

	3 Year-Average ⁽¹⁾				2024 ⁽¹⁾				2023 ⁽¹⁾
			Proved plus				Proved plus				Proved plus
	Proved		probable		Proved		probable		Proved		probable
Finding and development costs ($/Boe)	$	10.06	$	8.69	$	9.28	$	7.18	$	10.92	$	12.59
Finding, development and acquisition costs ($/Boe)	$	9.95	$	8.60	$	8.79	$	6.97	$	11.12	$	12.86

NOTE:

⁽¹⁾

F&D costs and FD&A are used as a measure of capital efficiency. The calculation for F&D costs includes all exploration and development capital for that period as outlined in the Company’s year-end financial statements plus the change in future development capital for that period. This total capital including the change in the future development capital is then divided by the change in reserves for that period including revisions for that same period. The aggregate of the exploration and development costs incurred in the most recent financial year and the change during the year in estimated future development costs generally will not reflect total finding and development costs related to reserve additions for the year. FD&A costs are calculated in the same manner except in addition to exploration and development capital and the change in future development capital, acquisition capital (net of any disposition proceeds) is also included in the calculation.

Summary of Corporate Net Present Value Data of Future Net Revenue

The estimated net present values of future net revenue before income taxes associated with NuVista’s reserves effective December 31, 2024 and based on the published 3 Consultants’ Average price forecast as at January 1, 2025 as set forth below, are summarized in the following table:

	Before Income Taxes
	Discount Factor (%/year)
Reserves category ⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾ ($ thousands)	0%	5%	10%	15%	20%
Proved
Developed producing	3,311,450	2,531,022	2,038,337	1,715,462	1,491,640
Developed non‑producing	589,610	437,020	350,631	295,990	258,256
Undeveloped	4,450,580	2,705,801	1,798,236	1,270,234	934,810
Total proved	8,351,651	5,673,843	4,187,204	3,281,686	2,684,706
Probable	7,457,152	3,482,560	1,946,864	1,232,453	849,096
Total proved plus probable	15,808,803	9,156,404	6,134,068	4,514,138	3,533,801

NOTES:

⁽¹⁾	Numbers may not add due to rounding.
⁽²⁾	All future net revenues are stated prior to the provision for interest income and other general and administrative expenses and after deduction of royalties, operating costs, estimated well and facility abandonment and reclamation costs and estimated future capital expenditures.
⁽³⁾	The estimated future net revenue contained in this press release does not necessarily represent the fair market value of the reserves.

The following table is a summary of pricing and inflation rate assumptions based on published 3 Consultants’ Average forecast prices and costs as at January 1, 2025:

Year	AECO Gas ($Cdn/ MMBtu)	NYMEX Gas ($US/ MMBtu)	Midwest Gas at Chicago ($US/ MMBtu)	Edmonton C5+ ($Cdn/Bbl)	Edmonton Propane ($Cdn/Bbl)	Edmonton Butane ($Cdn/Bbl)	WTI Cushing Oklahoma ($US/Bbl)	Edmonton Par Price 40 API ($Cdn/Bbl)	Exchange Rate⁽²⁾ ($US/$Cdn)
Forecast
2025	2.36	3.31	3.05	100.14	33.56	51.15	71.58	94.79	0.712
2026	3.33	3.73	3.53	100.72	32.78	49.98	74.48	97.04	0.728
2027	3.48	3.85	3.66	100.24	32.81	50.16	75.81	97.37	0.743
2028	3.69	3.93	3.73	102.73	33.63	51.41	77.66	99.80	0.743
2029	3.76	4.01	3.82	104.79	34.30	52.44	79.22	101.79	0.743
2030	3.83	4.09	3.89	106.86	34.99	53.49	80.80	103.83	0.743
2031	3.91	4.17	3.97	109.00	35.69	54.56	82.42	105.91	0.743
2032	3.99	4.26	4.05	111.19	36.40	55.65	84.06	108.02	0.743
2033	4.07	4.34	4.13	113.41	37.13	56.76	85.75	110.19	0.743
2034	4.15	4.43	4.21	115.69	37.87	57.90	87.46	112.39	0.743
2035	4.24	4.52	4.30	118.01	38.63	59.05	89.21	114.64	0.743
2036	4.32	4.61	4.39	120.37	39.40	60.24	90.99	116.93	0.743
2037	4.41	4.70	4.48	122.77	40.19	61.44	92.82	119.27	0.743
2038	4.49	4.79	4.56	125.23	41.00	62.67	94.67	121.65	0.743
2039	4.58	4.89	4.65	127.73	41.82	63.92	96.57	124.09	0.743
2040+	+2.0%/yr	+2.0%/yr	+2.0%/yr	+2.0%/yr	+2.0%/yr	+2.0%/yr	+2.0%/yr	+2.0%/yr	0.743

NOTES:

⁽¹⁾	Costs were not inflated in 2025 and inflated at 2% per annum thereafter.
⁽²⁾	Exchange rate used to generate the benchmark reference prices in this table.
⁽³⁾	NuVista’s future realized gas prices are forecasted based on a combination of various benchmark prices in addition to the AECO benchmark in order to reflect the favorable price diversification to other markets which NuVista has undertaken. Pricing at these markets has been accounted for in the GLJ Report. Additional information on NuVista’s gas marketing diversification will be available in our corporate presentation.

Advisories Regarding Oil and Gas Information

The reserve data provided in this press release presents only a portion of the disclosure required under National Instrument 51-101. All required information will be contained in the Company’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca).

There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of crude oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and the future cash flows attributed to such reserves. The reserve and associated cash flow information set forth above are estimates only. In general, estimates of economically recoverable crude oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and the future net cash flows therefrom are based upon a number of variable factors and assumptions, such as historical production from the properties, production rates, ultimate reserve recovery, timing and amount of capital expenditures, marketability of oil and natural gas, royalty rates, the assumed effects of regulation by governmental agencies and future operating costs, all of which may vary materially. For these reasons, estimates of the economically recoverable crude oil, NGL and natural gas reserves attributable to any particular group of properties, classification of such reserves based on risk of recovery and estimates of future net revenues associated with reserves prepared by different engineers, or by the same engineers at different times, may vary. The Company’s actual production, revenues, taxes and development and operating expenditures with respect to its reserves will vary from estimates thereof and such variations could be material.

BOEs may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A BOE conversion ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 Bbl is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

This press release contains a number of oil and gas metrics prepared by management, including F&D costs, FD&A costs, PDP per share, TP+PA per share, recycle ratio, operating netback, corporate netback and reserves replacement costs, which do not have standardized meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Such metrics have been included herein to provide readers with additional measures to evaluate NuVista’s performance on a comparable basis with prior periods; however, such measures are not reliable indicators of the future performance of NuVista, and future performance may not compare to the performance in previous periods. Details of how F&D costs, FD&A costs, operating netback, corporate netback and recycle ratios are calculated are set forth under the heading “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures – Non-GAAP Ratios”. Reserves replacement is calculated as the reserves category divided by estimated production.

Any references in this press release to initial production rates are useful in confirming the presence of hydrocarbons, however, such rates are not determinative of the rates at which such wells will continue production and decline thereafter. While encouraging, readers are cautioned not to place reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production for NuVista.

Any reference to capital efficiency has been prepared by management and is used to measure performance. NuVista calculates capital efficiency as the sum of the capital expenditures divided by average first year production rate for the applicable well(s). This term does not have a standardized meaning or standard calculation and is not comparable to similar measures used by other entities.

This press release discloses NuVista’s potential drilling locations in two categories: (i) undeveloped proved plus probable (TP+PA) drilling locations; and (ii) undeveloped contingent resources (2C) drilling locations. Undeveloped TP+PA drilling locations are derived the GLJ Report, and account for undeveloped drilling locations that have associated proved and/or probable reserves, as applicable. Undeveloped 2C drilling locations are derived from a report prepared by GLJ evaluating NuVista’s contingent resources as of December 31, 2024 (“GLJ Contingent Resource Report”), and account for undeveloped drilling locations that have associated contingent resources based on a best estimate of such contingent resources. There is no certainty that we will drill all drilling locations and if drilled, there is no certainty that such locations will result in additional oil and gas production. The drilling locations on which we actually drill wells will ultimately depend upon the availability of capital, regulatory approvals, seasonal restrictions, oil and natural gas prices, costs, actual drilling results, additional reservoir information that is obtained and other factors. Contingent resources are those quantities of petroleum estimated, as of a given date, to be potentially recoverable from known accumulations using established technology or technology under development, but which are not currently considered to be commercially recoverable due to one or more contingencies. Economic contingent resources are those contingent resources that are currently economically recoverable. The sub-classes included under economic contingent resources are Development Pending CR, Development on Hold CR, and Development Unclarified CR. Development Pending are resources where resolution of the final conditions for development is being actively pursued (high chance of development). Development on Hold are resources where there is a reasonable chance of development but there are major non-technical contingencies to be resolved that are usually beyond the control of the operator. Development Unclarified are resources where the evaluation is incomplete and there is ongoing activity to resolve any risks or uncertainties. Development Not Viable are resources that are not viable in the conditions prevailing at the effective date of the evaluation, and where no further data acquisition or evaluation is currently planned and hence there is a low chance of development. In the case of the contingent resources estimated in the GLJ Contingent Resource Report, contingencies include: (i) further delineation of interest lands; (ii) corporate commitment, and; (iii) final development plan. To further delineate interest lands additional wells must be drilled and tested to demonstrate commercial rates on the resource lands. Reserves are only assigned in close proximity to demonstrated productivity. As continued delineation drilling occurs, a portion of the contingent resources are expected to be reclassified as reserves. Confirmation of corporate intent to proceed with remaining capital expenditures within a reasonable timeframe is a requirement for the assessment of reserves. Finalization of a development plan includes timing, infrastructure spending and the commitment of capital.

Definitions of Oil and Gas Reserves

Reserves are estimated remaining quantities of crude oil and natural gas and related substances anticipated to be recoverable from known accumulations, as of a given date, based on the analysis of drilling, geological, geophysical, and engineering data; the use of established technology; and specified economic conditions, which are generally accepted as being reasonable. Reserves are classified according to the degree of certainty associated with the estimates as follows:

Proved Reserves are those reserves that can be estimated with a high degree of certainty to be recoverable. It is likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the estimated proved reserves.

Probable Reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves. It is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the sum of the estimated proved plus probable reserves.

PDP or Proved Developed Producing Reserves are those reserves that are expected to be recovered from completion intervals open at the time of the estimate. These reserves may be currently producing or, if shut-in, they must have previously been on production, and the date of resumption of production must be known with reasonable certainty.

Basis of presentation

Unless otherwise noted, the financial data presented in this press release has been prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) also known as International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”).

Natural gas liquids are defined by National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities” to include ethane, butane, propane, pentanes plus and condensate. Unless explicitly stated in this press release, references to “NGL” refers only to ethane, butane and propane and references to “condensate” refers to only to condensate and pentanes plus. NuVista has disclosed condensate and pentanes plus values separately from ethane, butane and propane values as NuVista believes it provides a more accurate description of NuVista’s operations and results therefrom.

Production split for Boe/d amounts referenced in the press release are as follows:

*Reference*	*Total Boe/d*	Natural Gas %		Condensate %		NGLs %

Q4 2024 production – actual	*85,635*	64	%	26	%	10	%
Q4 2024 production – guidance	*83,000 – 84,000*	61	%	30	%	9	%
2024 annual production – actual	*83,084*	61	%	30	%	9	%
2024 annual production – guidance	*83,500 – 86,000*	61	%	30	%	9	%
Q1 2025 production – guidance	*87,000 – 88,000*	63	%	28	%	9	%
2025 annual production – guidance	*~90,000*	61	%	30	%	9	%

Reserves advisories

The GLJ Report was prepared in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (“COGE Handbook”) and is dated effective as of December 31, 2024. The GLJ Report was based on 3 Consultants’ Average January 1, 2025 forecast pricing and foreign exchange rates at January 1, 2025. All reserves information has been presented on a gross basis, which is the Company’s working interest share before deduction of royalties and without including any royalty interests of the Company. The reserves have been categorized accordance with the reserves definitions as set out in the COGE Handbook. The recovery and reserve estimates contained herein are estimates only and there is no guarantee that the estimated reserves will be recovered. Also, estimates of reserves and future net revenue for individual properties may not reflect the same confidence level as estimates and future net revenue for all properties due to the effect of aggregation. All required reserve information for the Company will be contained in its Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, which will be accessible at www.sedarplus.ca.

With respect to disclosure contained herein regarding resources other than reserves, there is uncertainty that it will be commercially viable to produce any portion of the resources and there is significant uncertainty regarding the ultimate recoverability of such resources.

Advisory regarding forward-looking information and statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words “will”, “expects”, “believe”, “plans”, “potential” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this press release contains forward looking statements, including but not limited to:

our intention to allocate $100 million to repurchase our common shares in 2025, with at least 75% of any incremental free adjusted funds flow also allocated to the repurchase of our common share pursuant to our NCIB;

that our soft ceiling net debt will allow our current production levels to be sustainable and maintain an adjusted funds flow ratio below 1.0x in a stress test price environment of US$45/Bbl WTI and US$2.00/MMBtu NYMEX;

NuVista’s ability to continue directing free adjusted funds flow towards a prudent balance of return of capital to shareholders and debt reduction, while investing in high return growth projects;

the anticipated allocation of free adjusted funds flow;

our expectation that our capital efficiency will continue to be strong in 2025, allowing us to realize a well cost reduction of 3% year-over-year;

our expectation that a 5-well pad in Elmworth, a 4-well pad in Gold Creek, and a 14-well pad in Pipestone will be brought on-stream during the second quarter;

our expectation that an 8-welll pad in Pipestone will be brought on-stream in the third quarter;

our expectations regarding the consistency in deliverability of inventory in the Elmworth and Gold Creek areas;

guidance with respect to first quarter 2025 production and production mix;

our expectation that growth in 2025 will be largely supported by the Pipestone area;

the expected timing of start-up of a third-party gas plant in the Pipestone area and the anticipated benefits thereof;

our 2025 full year production, full year production mix and capital expenditures guidance ranges;

our plan to continue to maintain an efficient drilling program by employing 2-drill-rig execution;

our expectation that our value-adding growth plateau level will be approximately 125,000 Boe/d;

our future focus, strategy, plans, opportunities and operations; and

other such similar statements.

Statements relating to “reserves” are also deemed to be forward-looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the reserves described exist in the quantities predicted or estimated and that the reserves can be profitably produced in the future.

The future acquisition of our common shares pursuant to a share buyback (including through our normal course issuer bid), if any, and the level thereof is uncertain. Any decision to acquire common shares pursuant to a share buyback will be subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors and may depend on a variety of factors, including, without limitation, the Company’s business performance, financial condition, financial requirements, growth plans, expected capital requirements and other conditions existing at such future time including, without limitation, contractual restrictions and satisfaction of the solvency tests imposed on the Company under applicable corporate law. There can be no assurance of the number of common shares that the Company will acquire pursuant to a share buyback, if any, in the future.

By their nature, forward-looking statements are based upon certain assumptions and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond NuVista’s control, including the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, current and future commodity prices and inflation rates; that other than the tariffs that have been announced and implemented by the U.S. and Canadian governments on March 4, 2025, neither the U.S. nor Canada (i) increases the rate or scope of such tariffs, or imposes new tariffs, on the import of goods from one country to the other, and/or (ii) imposes any other form of tax, restriction or prohibition on the import or export of products from one country to the other, the impact of ongoing global events, including Middle East and European tensions, with respect to commodity prices, currency and interest rates, anticipated production rates, borrowing, operating and other costs and adjusted funds flow; the timing, allocation and amount of capital expenditures and the results therefrom; anticipated reserves and the imprecision of reserve estimates; the performance of existing wells; the success obtained in drilling new wells; the sufficiency of budgeted capital expenditures in carrying out planned activities; access to infrastructure and markets; competition from other industry participants; availability of qualified personnel or services and drilling and related equipment; stock market volatility; effects of regulation by governmental agencies including changes in environmental regulations, tax laws and royalties; the ability to access sufficient capital from internal sources and bank and equity markets; that we will be able to execute our 2025 drilling plans as expected; our ability to carry out our 2025 production and capital guidance as expected; the risk that (i) the U.S. or Canadian governments increases the rate or scope of the currently implemented tariffs, or imposes new tariffs on the import of goods from on the import or export of products from one country to the other, and (ii) the tariffs imposed by the U.S. on other countries and responses thereto could have a material adverse effect on the Canadian, U.S. and global economies, and by extension the oil and gas industry; and including, without limitation, those risks considered under “Risk Factors” in our Annual Information Form.

Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. NuVista’s actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements, or if any of them do so, what benefits NuVista will derive therefrom. NuVista has included the forward-looking statements in this press release in order to provide readers with a more complete perspective on NuVista’s future operations and such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. NuVista disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

This press release also contains financial outlook and future oriented financial information (together, “FOFI”) relating to NuVista including, without limitation, capital expenditures in 2025 and production which are based on, among other things, the various assumptions disclosed in this press release including under “Advisory regarding forward-looking information and statements” and including assumptions regarding benchmark pricing as it relates to the 2025 capital allocation framework. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the FOFI contained in this press release does not include the potential impact of tariff or trade-related regulation that have been announced by the U.S. and Canada, including the tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canada effective March 4, 2025. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and the impact of the tariffs on NuVista’s business operations and financial condition, while currently unknown, may be material and adverse and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on FOFI. NuVista’s actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these FOFI, or if any of them do so, what benefits NuVista will derive therefrom. NuVista has included the FOFI in order to provide readers with a more complete perspective on NuVista’s future operations and such information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

These forward-looking statements and FOFI are made as of the date of this press release and NuVista disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statements and FOFI, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities law.

Non-GAAP and other financial measures

This press release uses various specified financial measures (as such terms are defined in National Instrument 52-112 – Non-GAAP Disclosure and Other Financial Measures Disclosure (“NI 51-112”)) including “non-GAAP financial measures”, “non-GAAP ratios”, “capital management measures” and “supplementary financial measures” (as such terms are defined in NI 51-112), which are described in further detail below. Management believes that the presentation of these non-GAAP measures provides useful information to investors and shareholders as the measures provide increased transparency and the ability to better analyze performance against prior periods on a comparable basis.

⁽¹⁾ Non-GAAP financial measures

NI 52-112 defines a non-GAAP financial measure as a financial measure that: (i) depicts the historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow of an entity; (ii) with respect to its composition, excludes an amount that is included in, or includes an amount that is excluded from, the composition of the most directly comparable financial measure disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity; (iii) is not disclosed in the financial statements of the entity; and (iv) is not a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation.

These non-GAAP financial measures are not standardized financial measures under IFRS Accounting Standards and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. Investors are cautioned that these measures should not be construed as alternatives to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable GAAP measures as indicators of NuVista’s performance. Set forth below are descriptions of the non-GAAP financial measures used in this press release.

Free adjusted funds flow

Free adjusted funds flow is adjusted funds flow less net capital expenditures, power generation expenditures, and asset retirement expenditures. Each of the components of free adjusted funds flow are non-GAAP financial measures. Please refer to disclosures under the headings “Capital management measures” and “Capital expenditures” for a description of each component of free adjusted funds flow. Management uses free adjusted funds flow as a measure of the efficiency and liquidity of its business, measuring its funds available for additional capital allocation to manage debt levels and return capital to shareholders through its NCIB program and/or dividend payments. By removing the impact of current period net capital and asset retirement expenditures, management believes this measure provides an indication of the funds NuVista has available for future capital allocation decisions.

The following table sets out our free adjusted funds flow compared to the most directly comparable GAAP measure of cash provided by operating activities less cash used in investing activities for the applicable periods:

	Three months ended December 31				Year ended December 31
($ thousands)	2024		2023		2024		2023
Cash provided by operating activities	135,831		211,761		600,253		721,342
Cash used in investing activities	(71,090	)	(132,646	)	(499,579	)	(531,586	)
Excess (deficit) cash provided by operating activities over cash used in investing activities	64,741		79,115		100,674		189,756

Adjusted funds flow	137,059		201,987		552,196		756,943
Net capital expenditures	(71,090	)	(113,258	)	(498,876	)	(518,294	)
Power generation expenditures	—		(16,904	)	(1,680	)	(16,904	)
Asset retirement expenditures	(3,551	)	(1,208	)	(12,029	)	(11,195	)
Free adjusted funds flow	62,418		70,617		39,611		210,550

Capital expenditures

Capital expenditures are equal to cash used in investing activities, excluding changes in non-cash working capital, other asset expenditures, power generation expenditures, proceeds on property dispositions and costs of acquisitions. NuVista considers capital expenditures to represent its organic capital program and a useful measure of cash flow used for capital reinvestment.

The following table provides a reconciliation between the non-GAAP measure of capital expenditures to the most directly comparable GAAP measure of cash used in investing activities for the applicable periods:

	Three months ended December 31				Year ended December 31
($ thousands)	2024		2023		2024		2023
Cash used in investing activities	(71,090	)	(132,646	)	(499,579	)	(531,586	)
Changes in non-cash working capital	—		2,484		(977	)	(13,112	)
Other asset expenditures	—		—		—		9,500
Power generation expenditures	—		16,904		1,680		16,904
Property acquisition	—		44,000		—		44,000
Proceeds on property disposition	—		—		—		(26,000	)
Capital expenditures	(71,090	)	(69,258	)	(498,876	)	(500,294	)

Net capital expenditures

Net capital expenditures are equal to cash used in investing activities, excluding changes in non-cash working capital, other asset expenditures, and power generation expenditures. The Company includes funds used for property acquisitions or proceeds from property dispositions within net capital expenditures as these transactions are part of its development plans. NuVista considers net capital expenditures to represent its organic capital program inclusive of capital spending for acquisition and disposition proposes and a useful measure of cash flow used for capital reinvestment.

The following table provides a reconciliation between the non-GAAP measure of net capital expenditures to the most directly comparable GAAP measure of cash used in investing activities for the applicable periods:

	Three months ended December 31				Year ended December 31
($ thousands)	2024		2023		2024		2023
Cash used in investing activities	(71,090	)	(132,646	)	(499,579	)	(531,586	)
Changes in non-cash working capital	—		2,484		(977	)	(13,112	)
Other asset expenditures	—		—		—		9,500
Power generation expenditures	—		16,904		1,680		16,904
Net capital expenditures	(71,090	)	(113,258	)	(498,876	)	(518,294	)

The following table provides a breakdown of capital expenditures, net capital expenditures and power generation expenditures by category for the applicable periods:

	Three months ended December 31				Year ended December 31
($ thousands, except % amounts)	2024	% of total	2023	% of total	2024	% of total	2023		% of total
Land and retention costs	—	—	15	—	6,968	1	7,507		2
Geological and geophysical	38	—	249	—	1,164	—	691		—
Drilling and completion	43,915	62	51,413	74	353,583	72	392,663		78
Facilities and equipment	25,508	36	16,193	24	130,628	26	93,252		19
Corporate and other	1,629	2	1,388	2	6,533	1	6,181		1
Capital expenditures	71,090		69,258		498,876		500,294
Property acquisitions	—		44,000		—		44,000
Proceeds on property disposition	—		—		—		(26,000	)
Net capital expenditures	71,090		113,258		498,876		518,294
Power generation expenditures	—		16,904		1,680		16,904

Net operating expense

NuVista considers that any incremental gross costs incurred to process third party volumes at its facilities are offset by the applicable fees charged to such third parties. However, under IFRS Accounting Standards, NuVista is required to reflect operating costs and processing fee income separately on its statements of earnings. Management believes that net operating expense, calculated as gross operating expense less processing income and other recoveries, is a meaningful measure for investors to understand the net impact of NuVista’s operating activities.

The following table sets out net operating expense compared to the most directly comparable GAAP measure of operating expenses for the applicable periods:

	Three months ended December 31				Year ended December 31
($ thousands)	2024		2023		2024		2023
Operating expense	88,891		85,207		354,253		324,196
Other income ⁽¹⁾	(1,646	)	(1,038	)	(8,605	)	(3,058	)
Net operating expense	87,245		84,169		345,648		321,138

⁽¹⁾	Processing income and other recoveries, included within Other Income as presented in the table below:

	Three months ended December 31		Year ended December 31
($ thousands)	2024	2023	2024	2023
Other income	57	—	3,235	—
Processing income and other recoveries	1,646	1,038	8,605	3,058
Other Income	1,703	1,038	11,840	3,058

(2) Non-GAAP ratios

NI 52-112 defines a non-GAAP ratio as a financial measure that: (i) is in the form of a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation; (ii) has a non-GAAP financial measure as one or more of its components; and (iii) is not disclosed in the financial statements of the entity. Set forth below is a description of the non-GAAP ratios used in this MD&A.

These non-GAAP ratios are not standardized financial measures under IFRS Accounting Standards and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. Investors are cautioned that these ratios should not be construed as alternatives to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable IFRS Accounting Standards measures as indicators of NuVista’s performance.

Per Boe disclosures for petroleum and natural gas revenues, realized gains/losses on financial derivatives, royalties, transportation expense, G&A expense, financing costs, and DD&A expense are non-GAAP ratios that are calculated by dividing each of these respective GAAP measures by NuVista’s total production volumes for the period.

Non-GAAP ratios presented on a “per Boe” basis may also be considered to be supplementary financial measures (as such term is defined in NI 51-112).

Operating netback and corporate netback (“netbacks”), per BoeNuVista calculated netbacks per Boe by dividing the netbacks by total production volumes sold in the period. Each of operating netback and corporate netback are non-GAAP financial measures. Operating netback is calculated as petroleum and natural gas revenues, realized financial derivative gains/losses and other income, less royalties, transportation expense and net operating expense. Corporate netback is operating netback less general and administrative expense, cash share-based compensation expense (recovery), financing costs excluding accretion expense, and current income tax expense (recovery).
Management believes both operating and corporate netbacks are key industry benchmarks and measures of operating performance for NuVista that assists management and investors in assessing NuVista’s profitability, and are commonly used by other petroleum and natural gas producers. The measurement on a Boe basis assists management and investors with evaluating NuVista’s operating performance on a comparable basis.

Net operating expense, per BoeNuVista calculated net operating expense per Boe by dividing net operating expense by NuVista’s production volumes for the period.
Management believes that net operating expense, calculated as gross operating expense less processing income and other recoveries, which are included in NuVista’s statements of earnings, is a meaningful measure for investors to understand the net impact of the Company’s operating activities. The measurement on a Boe basis assists management and investors with evaluating NuVista’s operating performance on a comparable basis.

Reference has been also been made to certain terms that do not have standardized meanings or standard calculations and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other entities. These terms are used by NuVista’s management to measure the success of replacing reserves and to compare operating performance to previous periods on a comparable basis.

F&D costsNuVista calculated F&D costs as the sum of development costs plus the change in future development costs (“FDC”) for the period when appropriate, divided by the change in reserves within the applicable reserves category, excluding those reserves acquired or disposed.
NuVista calculated TP+PA 3-year average F&D costs as the sum of development costs plus the sum of the change in FDC over the last three completed financial years, divided by the sum of the change in the total proved and probable reserves over the last three completed financial years.

FD&A costsNuVista calculated FD&A costs are calculated as the sum of development costs plus acquisition costs net of disposition proceeds plus the change in FDC for the period when appropriate, divided by the change in reserves within the applicable reserves category, inclusive of changes due to acquisitions and dispositions.

Recycle RatioNuVista calculates recycle ratio as the operating netback divided by F&D costs for the applicable period.

(3) Capital management measures

NI 52-112 defines a capital management measure as a financial measure that: (i) is intended to enable an individual to evaluate an entity’s objectives, policies and processes for managing the entity’s capital; (ii) is not a component of a line item disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity; (iii) is disclosed in the notes to the financial statements of the entity; and (iv) is not disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity.

NuVista has defined net debt, adjusted funds flow, and net debt to annualized fourth quarter adjusted funds flow ratio as capital management measures used by the Company in this press release.

Adjusted funds flow

NuVista considers adjusted funds flow to be a key measure that provides a more complete understanding of the NuVista considers adjusted funds flow to be a key measure that provides a more comprehensive view of the company’s ability to generate cash flow necessary for financing capital expenditures, meeting asset retirement obligations, and fulfilling its financial commitments. Adjusted funds flow is calculated by adjusting cash flow from operating activities to exclude changes in non-cash working capital and asset retirement expenditures. Management believes these elements are subject to timing variations in collection, payment, and occurrence. By excluding them, management is able to provide a more meaningful performance measure of NuVista’s ongoing operations. Specifically, expenditures on asset retirement obligations may fluctuate depending on the company’s capital programs and the maturity of its operating areas, while environmental remediation recovery is tied to an infrequent incident that management does not expect to recur regularly. The settlement of asset retirement obligations is managed through NuVista’s capital budgeting process, which incorporates the available adjusted funds flow.

A reconciliation of adjusted funds flow is presented in the following table:

	2024			2023
Cash provided by operating activities	$	600,253		$	721,342
Asset retirement expenditures		12,029			11,195
Change in non-cash working capital		(60,086	)		24,406
Adjusted funds flow	$	552,196		$	756,943

Net debt is used by management to provide a more comprehensive understanding of NuVista’s capital structure and to assess the company’s liquidity. NuVista calculates net debt by considering accounts receivable, prepaid expenses, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, long-term debt (the Credit Facility), senior unsecured notes, and other liabilities. Management uses total market capitalization and the ratio of net debt to annualized adjusted funds flow for the current quarter to analyze balance sheet strength and liquidity.

The following is a summary of total market capitalization, net debt, annualized current quarter adjusted funds flow, and net debt to annualized current quarter adjusted funds flow:

	2024			2023
Basic common shares outstanding (thousands of shares)		203,701			207,584
Share price	$	13.82		$	11.04
Total market capitalization	$	2,815,148		$	2,291,727
Accounts receivable and other		(132,538	)		(139,451	)
Prepaid expenses		(45,584	)		(45,241	)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		206,862			157,711
Current portion of other liabilities		18,451			14,082
Long-term debt		5,353			16,897
Senior unsecured notes		163,258			162,195
Other liabilities		16,701			17,358
Net debt	$	232,503		$	183,551
Annualized current quarter adjusted funds flow	$	548,236		$	807,948
Net debt to annualized current quarter adjusted funds flow		0.4			0.2
Adjusted funds flow	$	552,196		$	756,943
Net debt to adjusted funds flow		0.4			0.2

(4) Supplementary financial measures

This press release may contain certain supplementary financial measures. NI 52-112 defines a supplementary financial measure as a financial measure that: (i) is intended to be disclosed on a periodic basis to depict the historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow of an entity; (ii) is not disclosed in the financial statements of the entity; (iii) is not a non-GAAP financial measure; and (iv) is not a non-GAAP ratio.

NuVista calculates: (i) “adjusted funds flow per share” by dividing adjusted funds flow for a period by the number of weighted average common shares of NuVista for the specified period; (ii) “operating netback per share” by dividing operating netback for a period by the number of weighted average common shares of NuVista for the specified period; (iii) “corporate netback per share” by dividing operating netback for a period by the number of weighted average common shares of NuVista for the specified period; (iv) “net debt to adjusted funds flow” by dividing the net debt at the end of a period by the adjusted funds flow for such period; and (v) “net present value per share” is the net present value (discounted at 10%) in the reserve category divided by the basic common shares outstanding at the end of the period.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Mike J. Lawford	Ivan J. Condic
President and CEO	VP, Finance and CFO
(403) 538-1936	(403) 538-1945

The MIL Network –

March 6, 2025

MIL-OSI: Microchip Technology Releases Versatile MPLAB® PICkit™ Basic Debugger
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CHANDLER, Ariz., March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — To make its robust programming and debugging capabilities accessible to a wider range of engineers, Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) has launched the MPLAB^® PICkit™ Basic in-circuit debugger to be a cost-effective, powerful solution for engineers at various levels. Unlike other complex and expensive debuggers, this budget-friendly device offers high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity, CMSIS-DAP support, compatibility with various Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) and compatibility with a broad range of microcontrollers. The tool’s versatility allows developers to use the debugger across various projects and platforms—including VS Code ecosystems—simplifying the workflow and reducing the need for multiple tools.

Key features:
- USB Type-C^® Cable: The MPLAB PICkit Basic programmer debugger uses a USB Type-C cable, which is modern, widely adopted and easy to use. The USB-C^® connection helps promote better connectivity, faster data transfer and a more reliable connection, reducing the hassle of dealing with outdated or incompatible cables.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Many advanced debugging and programming tools can be expensive, making them less accessible to hobbyists, students and smaller development teams. The MPLAB PICkit Basic debugger offers advanced features at a lower price point, making it an affordable option without compromising on functionality.
- Compatibility and Versatility: Developers often face challenges with tools that are limited to specific devices or software environments. The MPLAB PICkit Basic debugger supports a wide range of microcontrollers and is compatible with Microchip’s MPLAB X IDE, MPLAB Integrated Programming Environment (IPE) and MPLAB Extensions for VS Code, along with third-party options like IAR Embedded Workbench and various debugging interfaces including four-wire JTAG and Serial Wire Debug.
- Enhanced User Experience and Advanced Features: The sleek and lightweight design makes the MPLAB^® PICkit™ Basic easy to carry and use in various environments, from classrooms to professional development labs. Advanced debugging capabilities include automatic device selection and adapter support for Arm^® Cortex^®-based devices.
“As part of an ongoing strategy to make Microchip solutions easier to work with and more accessible, the MPLAB PICkit Basic debugger was designed to be a versatile and cost-effective solution for the development community,” said Rodger Richey, vice president of development systems and academic programs at Microchip Technology. “Compatibility with a wide range of microcontrollers and robust debugging capabilities make it an essential tool for hobbyists and professional engineers looking to optimize their development workflows.”

To learn more about Microchip’s development tools visit the company’s programmers and debuggers webpage. Customers can also take advantage of the live chat functionality available in MPLAB X IDE version 6.25 or stop by the Microchip booth during Embedded World (March 11-13) to speak with a development systems representative.

Pricing and Availability
The MPLAB PICkit basic is available starting at $29.99. For additional information and to purchase, contact a Microchip sales representative, authorized worldwide distributor or visit Microchip’s Purchasing and Client Services website, www.microchipdirect.com.

Resources

High-res images available through Flickr or editorial contact (feel free to publish):

About Microchip Technology:
Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of smart, connected and secure embedded control and processing solutions. Its easy-to-use development tools and comprehensive product portfolio enable customers to create optimal designs which reduce risk while lowering total system cost and time to market. The company’s solutions serve over 100,000 customers across the industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defense, communications and computing markets. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at www.microchip.com.

Note: The Microchip name and logo, the Microchip logo and MPLAB are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. PICkit is a trademark of Microchip Technology Inc. in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.

The MIL Network –
March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: World Health Organization (WHO) and Partners equip Community Health Workers to support Marburg outbreak response in Kagera

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

Download logo

The Tanzanian Ministry of Health, with technical and financial support from the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), and UNICEF, equipped over 600 community health workers (CHW) with hands-on skills to enhance local capacities in addressing the ongoing Marburg response efforts.

The training focused on key areas like community engagement, contact tracing, alert management, infection prevention and control (IPC), water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), self-care, and psychological first aid. These skills are essential for improving the early detection of Marburg cases and preventing further spread within communities.

Mariam Matabalo, a community health worker from Ruziba health facility, expressed her appreciation for the training, especially in areas related to effective communication with the public. ‘Since the Marburg outbreak was declared in my village, many people have had questions about how the virus spreads. But with the skills I’ve gained from this training, I feel more confident in addressing these concerns and providing accurate information to my community,’” she said.

Dr. Ona Machangu, the Assistant Director of Health Promotion, praised the collaborative efforts of WHO, UNICEF, and Africa CDC in creating a unified training package and ensuring that CHWs were actively involved in the response efforts. ‘Harmonizing the training and actively engaging community health workers is one of the best practices that strengthens the overall response. We are very grateful for the support from our partners to make this happen,’ he said.

WHO has played a pivotal role in coordinating these efforts, working alongside local health authorities and partners to ensure that the training is not only well-executed but also effective in bolstering local health systems.

Dr. Faraja Msemwa, the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) lead, reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Tanzania’s health system, ensuring that the country is better equipped for potential health emergencies in the future. ‘WHO is refocusing its resources to enhance health systems for a more effective response to potential health emergencies.

This community-based approach highlights the importance of local involvement in managing public health crises. Through strengthened community resilience and the active participation of community health workers, Tanzania is improving its ability to prevent, detect, and manage the Marburg outbreak, while also preparing for future health threats.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization – United Republic of Tanzania.

MIL OSI Africa –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon adds new partners Singtel, Skylo to worldwide IoT platform
Source: Verizon

Headline: Verizon adds new partners Singtel, Skylo to worldwide IoT platform

What you need to know:
- Singtel joins Bell Canada and Telenor IoT as Mobile Network Operator (MNO) partners providing international IoT connectivity through Verizon’s Global IoT Orchestration offering, which is now commercially available.
- Skylo is powering satellite-IoT connectivity and services for network assurance in areas where terrestrial connectivity is challenged.
- Verizon Business IoT customers can now access wireless services in up to 200 territories around the world, conveniently managed through Verizon Business’ ThingSpace IoT management platform.
NEW YORK – Verizon Business has added IoT connectivity services from two new partners — Singapore-based operator Singtel and satellite service provider Skylo — to its suite of global IoT offerings. Verizon Business IoT customers can now access wireless services in up to 200 territories worldwide using complementary satellite, roaming, and native eSIM services from Verizon and its partners, all conveniently managed through the Verizon ThingSpace IoT management portal.

Singapore-based communications technology group Singtel is the latest to partner with Verizon Business for its Global IoT Orchestration service, which allows Verizon Business customers to activate devices internationally using partner-MNO networks and services. Singtel will be a key partner supporting customers with the deployment of IoT connectivity in the Asia Pacific region. Global IoT Orchestration is now commercially available, offering international connectivity services from Singtel and previously announced collaborators Bell Canada and Telenor IoT.

In the United States, Verizon will be positioned to offer IoT connectivity from satellite service provider Skylo, extending domestic network coverage to areas where cellular connectivity may be challenged. Coverage availability is expected to expand internationally in the future.

Global IoT Orchestration is integrated in the Verizon ThingSpace IoT management platform, through which IoT connectivity and services in all territories — domestic and international — can be managed centrally on a single pane of glass using a seamless API interface or web portal. With Global IoT Orchestration, Verizon customers can activate devices in international regions using eSIM profiles from Verizon’s international carrier partners. In supported markets, customers can operate their devices just like a local network subscriber in that territory, with all the advantages of local connectivity.

Global IoT Orchestration is available to U.S.-based customers activating IoT devices internationally. Contact Verizon Business here to learn more.

Executive Statements

“Our IoT services and platforms are designed to meet our customers’ needs wherever they do business, which is all around the world. We’re thrilled to see Global IoT Orchestration in-market now and satellite-enhanced IoT coverage in the U.S. to be available nearterm, enabling worldwide connectivity for our customers from the best partners in the industry,” said Shamik Basu, Vice President, Strategic Connectivity, Verizon Business. “We’re proud to offer an IoT capability that’s expansive, mobile, and conveniently managed through Verizon ThingSpace.”

“Singtel is excited to support Verizon’s customers with our multi-domestic network offerings, so they can seamlessly manage their enterprise IoT applications and critical operational data, securely and in real time across the Asia Pacific region. Just as their customers can gain valuable insights from the diverse markets in this region, this partnership will pave the way for us to provide enhanced coverage for our customers in North America, facilitating increased customer reach, innovation and development in various industries across the world for all our stakeholders,” said Mr Lee Kwang Yong, Vice President, Enterprise Products, Singtel Singapore.

“Skylo is honored to deepen our commercial relationship with Verizon for Industrial and Enterprise IoT Solutions. The Verizon ThingSpace platform is world renowned for managing and orchestrating IoT devices, and Skylo NTN allows customers to ensure that they and their devices are always connected and never lose coverage,” said Tarun Gupta, Chief Product Officer and co-founder of Skylo.
MIL OSI Economics –
March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Lebanon: Israeli attacks on health facilities, ambulances and paramedics must be investigated as war crimes

Source: Amnesty International –

The Israeli military’s repeated unlawful attacks during the war in Lebanon on health facilities, ambulances and health workers, which are protected under international law, must be investigated as war crimes, Amnesty International said today.

The Lebanese government should provide the International Criminal Court (ICC) the jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute crimes within the Rome Statute committed on Lebanese territory, and ensure victims’ right to remedy, including by calling on Israel to provide reparation for serious violations of international humanitarian law.

In findings released today, Amnesty International presents the results of its investigations into four Israeli attacks on healthcare facilities and vehicles in Beirut and in south Lebanon between 3 and 9 October 2024, which killed 19 healthcare workers, wounded 11 more, and damaged or destroyed multiple ambulances and two medical facilities in a one-week period in October 2024.

During the war in Lebanon in 2024, the Israeli military repeatedly attacked health facilities and medical vehicles. The Israeli military has not provided sufficient justifications, or specific evidence of military targets being present at the strike locations, to account for these repeated attacks, which weakened a fragile healthcare system and put lives at risk.

“Israel’s unlawful attacks on medical facilities and personnel are not only serious violations of international humanitarian law and likely war crimes but also have devastating consequences for civilians more broadly. We call for the government of Lebanon, with the support of the international community, to step up and act to ensure that suspected perpetrators of war crimes can be held accountable. The new Lebanese government must grant the International Criminal Court jurisdiction over all Rome Statue crimes committed on or perpetrated from its territory,” said Amnesty International’s Senior Director for Research, Policy, Advocacy and Campaigns, Erika Guevara Rosas.

“Israel’s unlawful attacks on medical facilities and personnel are not only serious violations of international humanitarian law and likely war crimes but also have devastating consequences for civilians more broadly” – Erika Guevara Rosas, Senior Director for Research, Policy, Advocacy and Campaigns

Lebanon must urgently accede to the Rome Statute of the ICC and make a declaration granting the Court jurisdiction from 2002. In the interim, Lebanon should make an ad hoc declaration accepting the exercise of the ICC’s jurisdiction with respect to all Rome Statute crimes committed on or perpetrated from Lebanese territory.

The Israeli military repeatedly accused Hezbollah of using ambulances to transport fighters and weapons, and of using medical centres affiliated with the Islamic Health Association (IHA) as a “cover for terrorist activities”. In the four attacks investigated, however, Amnesty International did not find evidence that the facilities or vehicles were being used for military purposes at the time of the attacks.

“When a health system is attacked, civilians suffer. Even when hospitals are thought to be used for military purposes and lose their protected status under international law, they can only be attacked after a warning that gives sufficient time for the evacuation of patients and staff goes unheeded. An attacking party remains at all times bound by the principle of proportionality, weighing the concrete and direct military advantage anticipated from an attack against the expected harm to civilians and civilian objects, including the reverberating humanitarian consequences resulting from the attack,” said Erika Guevara Rosas.

Amnesty International interviewed 17 people, including medical workers, witnesses to the attacks, local officials, and family members of the victims. Researchers also visited the site of the attack on the IHA’s centre in Bachoura, Beirut. In addition, Amnesty International verified 46 photographs and videos from the attacks shared directly with the organization or published in the media and on social media. Amnesty International wrote to the Israeli military with its findings on 11 November 2024 but had not received a response by the time of publication.

Medical personnel, hospitals, and other medical facilities are protected under international humanitarian law. According to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), people who have exclusively non-combat functions in armed groups or are merely members of or affiliated with political entities with an armed component, such as Hezbollah, may not be targeted unless and for such time that they are directly participating in hostilities. Medical personnel affiliated with Hezbollah, including those assigned to civil defence organizations, exclusively assigned to medical or humanitarian duties are protected from attack.

A ceasefire was announced in Lebanon in late November 2024. In early 2025, healthcare workers impacted by the four Israeli attacks said they were doing their best to provide care while still grappling with damaged or destroyed facilities and vehicles and the loss of their colleagues. One civil defence team member, whose centre was destroyed in an Israeli attack, said the team was now working from a local villager’s home, which he said they had “offered to us, on temporary basis… until we find and move to a new locale.”

“It is crucial that all attacks against medical staff and facilities are investigated to ensure that perpetrators are punished, victims receive reparations, and these crimes are never repeated” – Erika Guevara Rosas

“It is crucial that all attacks against medical staff and facilities are investigated to ensure that perpetrators are punished, victims receive reparations, and these crimes are never repeated. A ceasefire is only the first step to ending and preventing harm. To move forward, victims of serious violations by all parties must see justice and receive redress,” said Erika Guevara Rosas.

Before Israel launched its operation Northern Arrows on 23 September 2024, Amnesty International had verified over 80 photos and videos from 11 attacks that hit medical crews and facilities in Lebanon between 8 October 2023 and 24 June 2024.

According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, between October 2023 and November 2024 the Israeli military attacked 67 hospitals, 56 primary health care centres, and 238 emergency medical teams, killing at least 222 medical and emergency relief workers.

According to the World Health Organization, as of 21 November 2024, “47% of the attacks on health care – 65 out of 137 – have proven fatal to at least one health worker or patient in Lebanon”.

The Lebanese healthcare sector was already straining due to multiple, ongoing and compounding crises, including a massive economic crisis that spiralled in late 2019, followed by the Beirut Port explosion in 2020, while the country tried to recover from the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak.

On 27 November, Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 60-day ceasefire deal. Within days, numerous violations of the ceasefire deal were reported. On 27 January, the ceasefire got extended for another few weeks. Israel later announced it intended to remain in a number of positions in Lebanon’s territory.

Amnesty International has also documented evidence of unlawful airstrikes that killed and injured civilians. In a briefing published in December 2024, Amnesty International documented four air strikes by Israeli forces across Lebanon which killed at least 49 civilians and killed entire families and that must be investigated as war crimes.

During the war, Hezbollah repeatedly fired unguided rocket salvos into northern Israel, including carrying out attacks that killed and injured civilians. In some cases, they insisted they were aiming at military targets, but in others said they were attacking the civilian city or town generally.

MIL OSI NGO –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Lebanon: Israeli attacks on health facilities, ambulances and paramedics must be investigated as war crimes – new investigation

Source: Amnesty International –

Four attacks on healthcare facilities and vehicles which killed 19 healthcare workers investigated

Israeli military has not provided sufficient justifications or specific evidence of military targets being present at the strike locations

Lebanon must urgently provide the ICC the jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute crimes within the Rome Statute

‘It is crucial that all attacks against medical staff and facilities are investigated to ensure that perpetrators are punished, victims receive reparations, and these crimes are never repeated’ – Erika Guevara Rosas

The Israeli military’s repeated unlawful attacks during the war in Lebanon on health facilities, ambulances and health workers, which are protected under international law, must be investigated as war crimes, Amnesty International said today.

In findings released today, Amnesty presents the results of its investigations into four Israeli attacks on healthcare facilities and vehicles in Beirut and in south Lebanon between 3 and 9 October 2024, which killed 19 healthcare workers, wounded 11 more, and damaged or destroyed multiple ambulances and two medical facilities in a one-week period.

During the war in Lebanon in 2024, the Israeli military repeatedly attacked health facilities and medical vehicles. The Israeli military has not provided sufficient justifications, or specific evidence of military targets being present at the strike locations, to account for these repeated attacks, which weakened a fragile healthcare system and put lives at risk.

Lebanon must urgently accede to the Rome Statute of the ICC and make a declaration granting the Court jurisdiction from 2002. In the interim, Lebanon should make an ad hoc declaration accepting the exercise of the ICC’s jurisdiction with respect to all Rome Statute crimes committed on or perpetrated from Lebanese territory.

Four attacks investigated

The Israeli military repeatedly accused Hezbollah of using ambulances to transport fighters and weapons, and of using medical centres affiliated with the Islamic Health Association (IHA) as a “cover for terrorist activities”. In the four attacks investigated, however, Amnesty did not find evidence that the facilities or vehicles were being used for military purposes at the time of the attacks.

Amnesty interviewed 17 people, including medical workers, witnesses to the attacks, local officials, and family members of the victims. Researchers also visited the site of the attack on the IHA’s centre in Bachoura, Beirut. In addition, Amnesty verified 46 photographs and videos from the attacks shared directly with the organisation or published in the media and on social media. Amnesty wrote to the Israeli military with its findings on 11 November 2024 but had not received a response by the time of publication.

Medical personnel, hospitals, and other medical facilities are protected under international humanitarian law. According to the International Committee of the Red Cross, people who have exclusively non-combat functions in armed groups or are merely members of or affiliated with political entities with an armed component, such as Hezbollah, may not be targeted unless and for such time that they are directly participating in hostilities. Medical personnel affiliated with Hezbollah, including those assigned to civil defence organisations, exclusively assigned to medical or humanitarian duties are protected from attack.

A ceasefire was announced in Lebanon in late November 2024. In early 2025, healthcare workers impacted by the four Israeli attacks said they were doing their best to provide care while still grappling with damaged or destroyed facilities and vehicles and the loss of their colleagues. One civil defence team member, whose centre was destroyed in an Israeli attack, said the team was now working from a local villager’s home, which he said they had “offered to us, on temporary basis… until we find and move to a new locale.”

Before Israel launched its operation Northern Arrows on 23 September 2024, Amnesty had verified over 80 photos and videos from 11 attacks that hit medical crews and facilities in Lebanon between 8 October 2023 and 24 June 2024.

According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, between October 2023 and November 2024 the Israeli military attacked 67 hospitals, 56 primary health care centres, and 238 emergency medical teams, killing at least 222 medical and emergency relief workers. According to the World Health Organization, as of 21 November 2024, “47% of the attacks on health care – 65 out of 137 – have proven fatal to at least one health worker or patient in Lebanon”.

The Lebanese healthcare sector was already straining due to multiple, ongoing and compounding crises, including a massive economic crisis that spiralled in late 2019, followed by the Beirut Port explosion in 2020, while the country tried to recover from the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Violations of the ceasefire deal

On 27 November, Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 60-day ceasefire deal. Within days, numerous violations of the ceasefire deal were reported. On 27 January, the ceasefire got extended for another few weeks. Israel later announced it intended to remain in a number of positions in Lebanon’s territory.

Amnesty has also documented evidence of unlawful airstrikes that killed and injured civilians. In a briefing published in December 2024, Amnesty documented four air strikes by Israeli forces across Lebanon which killed at least 49 civilians and killed entire families and that must be investigated as war crimes.

During the war, Hezbollah repeatedly fired unguided rocket salvos into northern Israel, including carrying out attacks that killed and injured civilians. In some cases, they insisted they were aiming at military targets, but in others said they were attacking the civilian city or town generally.

Call to investigate war crimes

The Lebanese government should provide the ICC the jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute crimes within the Rome Statute committed on Lebanese territory, and ensure victims’ right to remedy, including by calling on Israel to provide reparation for serious violations of international humanitarian law.

Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s Senior Director for Research, Policy, Advocacy and Campaigns, said:

“Israel’s unlawful attacks on medical facilities and personnel are not only serious violations of international humanitarian law and likely war crimes but also have devastating consequences for civilians more broadly.

“When a health system is attacked, civilians suffer. Even when hospitals are thought to be used for military purposes and lose their protected status under international law, they can only be attacked after a warning that gives sufficient time for the evacuation of patients and staff goes unheeded. An attacking party remains at all times bound by the principle of proportionality, weighing the concrete and direct military advantage anticipated from an attack against the expected harm to civilians and civilian objects, including the reverberating humanitarian consequences resulting from the attack.

“It is crucial that all attacks against medical staff and facilities are investigated to ensure that perpetrators are punished, victims receive reparations, and these crimes are never repeated. A ceasefire is only the first step to ending and preventing harm. To move forward, victims of serious violations by all parties must see justice and receive redress.

“We call for the government of Lebanon, with the support of the international community to step up and act to ensure that suspected perpetrators of war crimes can be held accountable. The new Lebanese government must grant the ICC jurisdiction over all Rome Statue crimes committed on or perpetrated from its territory.”

MIL OSI NGO –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More than 300 empty homes brought back into use

Source: City of Wolverhampton

The figures have been highlighted during what is national Empty Homes Week (3 to 9 March).

City of Wolverhampton Council’s Empty Property Strategy has seen 312 houses which had been left unoccupied – often in poor condition – brought back into use over the last five years.

The council aims to ensure that rather than the properties becoming a blight on their neighbourhood, they are either sold to new homeowners or rented out to tenants.

Specialist housing improvement officers from the council’s private sector housing team have worked with the owners of properties left empty for a long period of time to encourage and support them to carry out any required works and get them occupied once again.

If necessary and as a last resort, the authority can use enforcement action to ensure this work takes place.

The council also offers up to £500 towards legal and/or marketing fees to encourage more owners of empty properties to sell their property on the open market.

Councillor Steve Evans, City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Housing, said: “Our action on privately-owned empty homes is providing more affordable housing to people in the City of Wolverhampton.

“The properties we have become involved with have often stood empty for many years, sometimes because there are no relatives to inherit or they cannot be traced, and, as a result, the condition of the property has deteriorated dramatically.

“We are putting these houses back on the market – either to sell or rent – and this in turn is having a positive effect in the areas they are in.

“Bringing them back into use also helps supports local shops and services are benefiting from new residents occupying the houses – providing a significant boost to the local economy.

“This ongoing work is the equivalent of us building hundreds of new houses across the city – and we will continue to focus our efforts on empty houses in the City of Wolverhampton.”

The public can report empty properties via the website Report an empty property and owners can contact the council to discuss options by calling 01902 551155 or emailing empty.properties@wolverhampton.gov.uk

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital announces incident of patient care assistant suspected to have been indecently assaulted

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital announces incident of patient care assistant suspected to have been indecently assaulted
******************************************************************************************

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority: The spokesman for Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital (AHNH) made the following statement today (March 5) regarding an incident of a patient care assistant suspected to have been indecently assaulted: A patient care assistant (PCA) was suspected to have been indecently assaulted while performing care procedures for a 73-year-old male patient in a medical ward yesterday afternoon (March 4). Upon receiving the report from the PCA, the hospital reported the incident to the Police immediately. A man was subsequently arrested by the Police in the ward. AHNH is highly concerned about the incident. The hospital strongly condemns the suspected indecent acts against its staff, resolutely adopts a zero-tolerance attitude towards this incident, and will follow up seriously while fully co-operating with the Police’s investigation. The hospital has expressed sympathy and provided support to the PCA concerned. The hospital has reported the incident to the Hospital Authority Head Office via the Advance Incident Reporting System.

Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 16:10

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHP receives case of severe paediatric influenza B infection complicated with myocarditis

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

CHP receives case of severe paediatric influenza B infection complicated with myocarditis
*****************************************************************************************

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 5) received a report of a case of severe paediatric influenza B infection complicated with myocarditis and urged the public who have not yet received the seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) to act immediately to minimise the risk of serious complications and death after infection. The case involved an 8-year-old boy with good past health. He developed cough, runny nose and sore throat since March 1 and developed fever the next day. He sought medical attention from a private doctor on March 3. He attended the Accident and Emergency Department of United Christian Hospital yesterday (March 4) and was admitted to the paediatric ward. He was subsequently transferred to the paediatric intensive care unit of Hong Kong Children Hospital. His nasopharyngeal swab specimen tested positive for the influenza B virus upon laboratory testing. The clinical diagnosis was influenza B infection complicated with myocarditis. He is still hospitalised and in critical condition. The boy had no travel history during the incubation period. His two household contacts had upper respiratory symptoms recently. He received SIV for the current season. Including the above-mentioned boy, the CHP has recorded 10 cases of severe influenza virus infection in children since the start of this influenza season in early January, seven of whom were unvaccinated. Influenza vaccination has been scientifically proven to be one of the most effective ways to prevent seasonal influenza and its complications, while significantly reducing the risk of hospitalisation and death from seasonal influenza. All persons aged 6 months and above (except those with known contraindications) who have not yet received SIV should act immediately, particularly the elderly and children who have a higher risk of becoming infected with influenza and developing complications. Furthermore, the SIV coverage rate for children aged 6 months to under 2 years remained relatively low at about 25 per cent as of March 2. Although slightly higher than that of the same period last year, it was still lower than that of other age groups of children. To enhance relevant vaccination services and boost the vaccination rate, the Government has opened the DH’s Maternal and Child Health Centres (MCHCs) to all children aged 6 months to under 2 years. Parents may book an appointment for their children to receive vaccinations at designated MCHCs via the online booking system. The surveillance data of the CHP shows that the seasonal influenza activity in Hong Kong remains above the baseline thresholds. To protect their health and that of their family members, in addition to receiving SIV, the public should also maintain good personal and environmental hygiene, and take the following measures to prevent contracting influenza and other respiratory illnesses:

Patients can wear surgical masks to prevent transmission of respiratory viruses. Therefore, it is essential for persons who are symptomatic (even if having mild symptoms) to wear a surgical mask;
High-risk persons (e.g. persons with underlying medical conditions or persons who are immunocompromised) should wear surgical masks when visiting public places. The general public should also wear a surgical mask when taking public transport or staying in crowded places. It is important to wear a mask properly, including performing hand hygiene before wearing and after removing a mask;
Avoid touching one’s eyes, mouth and nose;
Practise hand hygiene frequently, wash hands with liquid soap and water properly whenever possibly contaminated;
When hands are not visibly soiled, clean them with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub;
Cover the mouth and nose with tissue paper when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of soiled tissue paper properly into a lidded rubbish bin, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
Maintain good indoor ventilation;
Avoid sharing personal items;
When having respiratory symptoms, wear a surgical mask, consider to refrain from going to work or school, avoid going to crowded places and seek medical advice promptly; and
Maintain a balanced diet, perform physical activity regularly, take adequate rest, do not smoke and avoid overstress.

For the latest information, members of the public can visit the CHP’s seasonal influenza and COVID-19 & Flu Express webpages.

Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 17:00

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fraudulent website and phishing instant messages related to The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Fraudulent website and phishing instant messages related to The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited
******************************************************************************************

The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority: The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited relating to a fraudulent website and phishing instant messages, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website. The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks). Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the website or instant messages concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 17:25

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025 to be gazetted

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025 to be gazetted
****************************************************************

The Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025 will be gazetted on March 7 to implement the measure announced in the 2025-26 Budget to increase the air passenger departure tax (APDT) from $120 per passenger to $200 with effect from October 1, 2025. The new tax rate will be applicable to air tickets purchased on or after October 1, 2025. It is estimated that government revenue will increase by about $1.6 billion annually. Under the Air Passenger Departure Tax Ordinance (Cap. 140) (APDT Ordinance), certain classes of people are exempted from payment of the APDT, including passengers under 12 years of age, direct transit passengers, connecting flight passengers, passengers who arrive at and depart from Hong Kong by aircraft on the same day, and passengers who arrive at Hong Kong International Airport by vehicle via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge or by ship and subsequently depart from Hong Kong by aircraft while remaining within the restricted area at all times before departure. A Government spokesman said, “The APDT was last increased more than 20 years ago in 2003-04. The proposed increase constitutes only a very small portion of the overall travelling cost for the general public and travellers to Hong Kong. The impact on air passengers is expected to be minimal.” Meanwhile, under the APDT Ordinance, airlines and helicopter company collect the APDT from air passengers on behalf of the Government, and process applications for exemptions and refunds. The Government pays an administration fee to them in return. The Bill also proposes amending the APDT Ordinance to streamline the financial arrangement of the Government for handling the administration fee. The Bill will be introduced into the Legislative Council for first reading and the commencement of the second reading debate on March 19.

Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 17:15

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cabinet approves development of ropeway project from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji (12.4 km) in the State of Uttarakhand under National Ropeways Development Programme – Parvatmala Pariyojana

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 3:09PM by PIB Delhi

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of 12.4 km ropeway project from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji. The project will be developed on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) mode at a total capital cost of Rs. 2,730.13 crore.

Currently, the journey to the Hemkund Sahib Ji is a challenging 21-km uphill trek from Govindghat and is covered on foot or by ponies or palanquins. The proposed ropeway is planned to provide convenience to pilgrims and visiting the Hemkund Sahib Ji and the tourists visiting the Valley of Flowers and will ensure all-weather last mile connectivity between Govindghat and Hemkund Sahib Ji.

The ropeway is planned to be developed in public-private partnership and will be based on Monocable Detachable Gondola (MDG) from Govindghat to Ghangaria (10.55 km), seamlessly integrated with the most advanced Tricable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib Ji (1.85 km) with a design capacity of 1,100 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD) carrying 11,000 passengers per day.

The ropeway project will also generate substantial employment opportunities during construction and operations as well as in allied tourism industries like hospitality, travel, foods & beverages (F&B) and tourism throughout the year.

The development of ropeway project is a significant step towards fostering balanced socio-economic development, enhancing last mile connectivity for pilgrims and fostering rapid economic growth of the region.

Hemkund Sahib Ji is a highly revered pilgrimage site situated at an elevation of 15,000 ft in Chamoli district of the State of Uttarakhand. The Gurudwara established at the holy site is open for about 5 months in a year between May and September and is visited by about 1.5 to 2 lakh pilgrims annually. The trek to Hemkund Sahib Ji also serves as the gateway to the famous Valley of Flowers, a national park recognized as the UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the pristine Garhwal Himalayas.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the proposed acquisition of certain shareholding of Schott Poonawalla Private Limited by TPG Scion SG Pte. Ltd.

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 12:22PM by PIB Delhi

The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed acquisition of certain shareholding of Schott Poonawalla Private Limited by TPG Scion SG Pte. Ltd.

The proposed combination involves the acquisition by TPG Scion SG Pte. Ltd. of certain shareholding in SPPL by way of a secondary purchase from Serum Institute of India Private Limited. (Proposed Combination).

The TPG Scion SG Pte. Ltd. (TPG Scion/Acquirer), is a newly incorporated special purpose investment vehicle incorporated in Singapore on 11^th October 2024 for the purposes of the Proposed Combination. Currently it does not have any operations in India. TPG Scion is an affiliate of the TPG Group, which is a global, diversified investment firm founded in 1992. TPG Scion is ultimately managed and controlled by an entity, which is advised by the affiliates of TPG Inc. (TPG), the ultimate holding company of the TPG Group. TPG, including its subsidiaries and affiliates, are together referred to as “TPG Group”.

Schott Poonawalla Private Limited (SPPL/Target) is engaged in the business of developing, manufacturing and selling, sterile or non-sterile glass containers such as ampoules, vials, cartridges or syringes for primary pharmaceutical packaging and their ancillary components by converting tubular glass into ampoules, vials, cartridge and prefilled syringes or otherwise.

Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 6, 2025

Category: Transport

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