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After conflict’s won, what happens next?
In the wake of the coordinated, well-planned savage attack mounted by the Palestinian terror group Hamas, which stunned Israel on 7 October, a seething Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed the total annihilation of Hamas. A “mighty vengeance” is what he promised against what he described as a “cruel enemy, worse than ISIS.” Likewise enraged by the slaughter of scores of Israelis, including over 200 revelers who were mowed down by armed paragliders and foot soldiers as they made merry at an electronic music festival outside the Re’im kibbutz, about 3.3 miles (5.3 kilometers) from the wall that separates Gaza from southern Israel, Netanyahu’s words were echoed by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant who declared, “We will wipe this thing called Hamas, ISIS-Gaza off the face of the earth. It will cease to exist.” Hamas didn’t spare any of the nearly 1,500 Israelis they felled —men, women, children, old people — they also took with them over 200 hostages. Within a week of the attack, Israel retaliated with an intense bombing of Central and Northern Gaza, with Israel striking over 7,000 targets, including rocket launchers, command centers, munitions factories, and leaders of Hamas. It has been nearly three weeks since the 7 October attack by Hamas, and it remains unclear if or when Israel will conduct a ground invasion of Gaza. Even as Israel continues to blast enemy targets, Western leaders and the UN are pleading for a pause to give aid a chance to get through the blockade and into Gaza and for the safe release of the hostages in Hamas’s hands. On Thursday, Israel said it had briefly sent tanks into Gaza to “prepare the battlefield ahead of the next stages of combat.” Again, on Wednesday, Netanyahu vowed Israel would exact a price for the terrorist assault, which killed over 1,400. Despite these statements by Netanyahu and the Israeli defense minister to decimate Hamas to kingdom come, there is no exact clarity as to when Israel will begin its ground invasion. For sure, the challenges of a ground war are gargantuan. If or when such a ground invasion is finally mounted, what awaits the Israeli defense force will be sustained urban warfare in enemy territory in pursuit of an objective that, other than the total demolition of Hamas, leaves so many other vital matters hanging in the air. The Israelites will confront at least four critical challenges in carrying out a major ground offensive. For Council for Foreign Relations expert Max Boot, these include urban fighting, an inherently different form of warfare where buildings provide positions for defenders, and the multiplication of difficulties for Israeli combatants due to the presence of a large number of Palestinian civilians and even the hostages seized by Hamas who could be used as human shields. Then there are all the underground tunnels built by Hamas over the years, enabling them to hide from Israeli troops and emerge at unexpected moments. There, too, is the challenge of a possible second front, with the Hezbollah in Lebanon poised on Israel’s northern border. The Hezbollah has an estimated arsenal of some 150,000 missiles and rockets. So far, Hezbollah has not mounted a major assault on Israel, but analysts fear it could do so once Israeli ground forces get into Gaza. “A two-front conflict would be a nightmare for Israel,” says Boot. A third critical challenge consists of post-combat stabilization operations. Known in the US military as “Phase IV,” this is where US efforts in both Washington and Iraq foundered badly for lack of preparation. Israeli media have reported that the Israeli government has been struggling to develop a Phase IV plan of its own and, Boot points out, “no wonder because there are no good options.” If Israel simply attacks Hamas and then leaves — as it had done in the past — the terrorist group would just regenerate itself. If to prevent that from happening, a Palestinian Authority government would be established in place of Hamas, with help from Arab states, that could be an option. But if that fails, Israel may have no choice but to re-occupy Gaza — a situation that could leave Israeli soldiers vulnerable to a grinding guerrilla war of the kind they faced in Lebanon in the early 1980s all through 2000. Even as they do get into Gaza, there are many unknowns, according to Boot: how will Israel deal with the Hamas tunnel network; how skillfully will Hamas fight; will a toll on civilian lives in Gaza force Israel to suspend its offensive; will Hezbollah join the war; will this war spread across the region and draw into the fray Hamas’s biggest supporter, Iran? If Hamas is indeed physically decimated — what then should be done to stabilize Gaza after the enemy has been vanquished? Who takes over Gaza once the guns have been stilled and the smoke of war clears? What happens next? Israel’s leaders say those matters, for the moment, are not of immediate concern to them. But at a certain point, they will become unavoidable; Israel will have to grapple with complex questions and carve out a workably resolute path through the din for its continued survival. The post After conflict’s won, what happens next? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Lacuna introduces new MPD chief
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna formally introduced to City Hall officials and employees yesterday the new acting director of the Manila Police District (MPD) in the person of Col. Arnold Thomas Ibay, who she believes will ably intensify the maintenance of peace and order in the city. In presenting the new MPD chief, Lacuna said Ibay is an old hand in the premier police district who has held various positions. He left the district for about a year and has come back to hold the top police post in Manila. “Under his leadership, he is expected to intensify peace and order in the city,” Lacuna said. The mayor also cited the forthcoming huge events in the city, namely the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections and the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day or Undas. She said she and Ibay already met regarding measures that have to be putin place to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of the said occasions. Ibay was made to host the regular flag-raising last Monday wherein he introduced the lady mayor. Lacuna, for her part, asked Ibay to momentarily stay with her as she formally introduced him to officials and employees of Manila City Hall, jesting that being a man of few words, he forgot to introduce himself. Meanwhile, Lacuna called on city government workers to use the week as another chance to render the best possible public service, saying the qualityof the work they do is a reflection of their love not only for their jobs, but also for their fellowmen and the city in general. The post Lacuna introduces new MPD chief appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Senators denounce China’s ‘abhorrent’ actions in WPS
Senators on Sunday condemned China for performing “dangerous blocking maneuvers” that resulted in a collision with the Unaiza May 2, an indigenous boat contracted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines for a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre. In separate statements, Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, Senators Risa Hontiveros, and Francis Tolentino expressed their anger over the collision that put the safety of the Filipino crew at risk. “I am one with peace-loving Filipinos in strongly condemning this latest abhorrent actions of the China Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia that put in danger the lives of our brave countrymen who were on a routine resupply mission to our troops in Ayungin Shoal,” Zubiri said. “Let me salute our personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for displaying courage and restraint in continuing their resupply missions despite the hostile and treacherous acts of China Coast Guard and their maritime militia,” he added. Zubiri called on CCG to “respect human lives and abide by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and other international laws governing safe maritime travel.” “Our freedom of navigation in our own exclusive economic zone within our own continental shelf should be recognized and upheld,” he stressed. The Senate chief also reiterated his support for his colleagues' efforts to beef up the PCG and AFP’s budget for the next fiscal year to “better capacitate them in safeguarding our exclusive economic zones from illegal foreign intrusions.” “As leader of the Senate, I will make sure that our troops will get sufficient funds under the 2024 national budget to bankroll the much-needed upgrade of their equipment,” he said. The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea accused the CCG of performing "dangerous blocking maneuvers" that resulted in a collision with the Unaiza May 2, an indigenous boat contracted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines for a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre. The NTF-WPS condemned the “provocative, irresponsible, and illegal action” of the China Coast Guard ship which “imperiled the safety” of the Unaiza May 2 crew. In the same resupply mission, a Chinese Maritime Militia vessel “bumped” the Philippine Coast Guard BRP Cabra’s port side which was escorting the Philippine vessels while it was lying approximately 6.4 nautical miles northeast of Ayungin Shoal. The NTF-WPS said it “condemns in the strongest degree the latest dangerous, irresponsible, and illegal actions of the CCG and the Chinese maritime militia done this morning.” ‘Enough’ Hontiveros echoed Zubiri’s call on China to “stop” its activities in the West Philippine Sea which she said clearly violates international law. “This latest collision is squarely the China Coast Guard’s fault,” she said in a separate statement. “The 2016 Arbitral Award has resolutely invalidated China’s claims in the West Philippine Sea, making this incident a clear violation of international law,” she added. Hontiveros said the PCG “has every right to be in the West Philippine Sea.” “China has no right to drive our forces into our own seas. Furthermore, they do not have the right to hurt and bump Philippine vessels that are only performing their jobs in our territories,” she stressed. “Chinese vessels have chased, blocked, and harassed our Philippine Coast Guard daily, 24/7 every single time we conduct our resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre,” she added. The opposition lawmaker also called on the international community to join the Philippines’ condemnation of China’s most recent violence against the Filipino people. “Our nations should not stop fighting for the rule of law. It is the only way to have a chance at true peace and stability across the region and the world,” she said. For his part, Tolentino said the recent confrontation between the Philippines and China clearly shows China’s continuous disregard for international law. He noted that the incident should be investigated by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea and the Code for Investigation ng Marine Casualties and Incidents of the International Maritime Organization. Ayungin Shoal, also known as Second Thomas Shoal, is located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan and is part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. China claims the vast South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea. On 12 July 2016, the Philippines won its arbitral case against China in the Permanent Court of Arbitration – a landmark decision that China continues to reject. The post Senators denounce China’s ‘abhorrent’ actions in WPS appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Villanueva urges DA to address over 3.5K unfilled positions
The Department of Agriculture should address the lingering problem of unfilled positions in its agencies, Senate Minority Leader Joel Villanueva stressed Thursday. During the Senate’s Finance Subcommittee B hearing on the proposed 2024 budget of the DA and its attached agencies, Villanueva grilled agriculture executives over the increasing number of unfilled positions in the department from 2021 up to 2014. In his presentation, Villanueva said he number of unfilled positions has increased from 3,451 in 2021 to 3,579 a year later, in 2022. Although it went down to 3,566 in 2023 and the number remained until 2024, Villanueva lamented that the number is still higher than in 2021. “Walang diperenseya. Walang nangyari. Baka naman po ‘yung position diyan ay inutil talaga, mahirap i-fill up, mataas 'yung requirement tapos ang baba ng sweldo kaya walang naga-apply. But you let us know,” he said. Villanueva also questioned the department’s 5,765 job orders and contract of service personnel. He asked if these personnel have no chance to fill the vacant permanent positions in the department. “What would you feel if you were one of the 5,765 job order personnel? Would you be able to sleep at night or pray, hoping that the numbers would somehow change in the next two years? Is there a chance to change it?” Villanueva asked. In response, the DA officials said they are in the process of filling up the positions. DA assured the Senate that a substantial number of vacant positions will be occupied by next year. Villanueva then suggested the DA should conduct a “right-sizing” in its agency if it would really be hard for them to fill in the existing positions. The post Villanueva urges DA to address over 3.5K unfilled positions appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Total lawfare’: Ukraine’s other front in the war
On 26 February 2022, while Russian tanks were barrelling towards Kyiv, Ukrainian lawyers were fighting on a different front, submitting a case against Moscow at the International Court of Justice. The gilded halls of the Peace Palace in The Hague, where the court sits, are a world away from the trenches of Donbas but Ukraine believes its legal attacks on Russia are a critical part of the fight. What cases are open in Ukraine's campaign of all-out "lawfare" against Moscow and, with little chance of Russian compliance, what's the point? Where are the legal front lines? The Hague, Strasbourg, and Hamburg. Ukraine has dragged Russia before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which rules on disputes between nations, arguing that President Vladimir Putin abused the UN Genocide Convention when he used an alleged "genocide" in eastern Ukraine as a pretext for invasion. The final arguments in this case will be heard later Wednesday. Also in The Hague, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Putin, accusing him of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children, a war crime. Neither of these courts, however, can try Russian leaders, including Putin, for the crime of "aggression", defined as an attack on one state by another in breach of the UN charter. So a special group of prosecutors from Ukraine, the EU, the United States, and the ICC has been set up in The Hague with a view to establishing a special tribunal to bring senior Russians to trial. Ukraine also has cases open at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg over alleged Russian human rights abuses. Finally, Ukraine also brought cases to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in Hamburg over what it says is Russia's disregard for international maritime law. Will Russia comply? It seems unlikely that Russia would comply with any ruling from an international court -- for example, in March 2022, the ICJ ordered Moscow to immediately halt its invasion. Russia didn't even turn up to the hearings in that case. But it's far from an academic exercise, said Cecily Rose, assistant professor of public international law at Leiden University. "There are examples of cases in which Russia has complied at least partially with an adverse ruling by an international court," Rose told AFP, citing a 2015 verdict in which Moscow reportedly stumped up half the cash it was ordered to. "It shows that non-compliance cannot be cynically assumed. Most of the time, states do comply with awards and judgments rendered by international courts and tribunals." What's the point? Even if Russia doesn't comply, Kyiv and most legal experts think the international community needs to draw a line in the sand. "Some countries do not comply with the law, including Russia. However, it is still important to call them out and to bring a case against them when they do breach the law," said Melanie O'Brien, assistant professor at the University of Western Australia Law School. "The case demonstrates that other countries do not view Russia's conduct as acceptable -- but rather, as unlawful," O'Brien told AFP. A ruling from the ICJ against Russia would be a further element in isolating Moscow and confirming it broke international law, she said. "It is also an important acknowledgment for victims of human rights abuses and international crimes such as war crimes that what happened to them and their loved ones was not lawful," she added. Proving that Russia's actions were in contravention of international law could also be key in future peace negotiations, including over potential reparations, noted Rose. How long will it take? The wheels of justice grind slowly. The ICJ "genocide" case is only about whether the court even has jurisdiction. A special tribunal is politically sensitive and will take a long time to establish. But the wheels of justice also grind exceedingly fine. "Just because Putin won't comply with a ruling now, he won't be in power forever," said O'Brien. "At some point, a change of regime will occur and may lead to compliance with international law." The post ‘Total lawfare’: Ukraine’s other front in the war appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Unhappy couples need fresh start — JV
Couples who are no longer happy in their marriage deserve a fresh start, Senate Deputy Majority Leader Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito said Thursday. In a press conference at the Senate, Ejercito explained why he voted in favor of Committee Report 124, which recommended the approval of Senate Bill 2443, or the proposed Dissolution of Marriage Act. “There are relationships that are already irreparable. We don’t want people to be miserable,” he said. He added: “The bottom line is people don’t deserve to be miserable. If it’s irreparable, we have to give them a second chance.” He, however, clarified that he purposely signed the committee report to discuss the bill more thoroughly in the plenary. “But, of course, we are a Christian nation. That’s why it is difficult to get an annulment. We’ll just hear it. Anyway, I signed it because I want more discussion about it on the floor,” he said. Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva remained firm in his opposition to the bill. “Divorce is a big no for me! Yes, to making annulment accessible to the poor,” Villanueva said in a separate statement. The lawmaker, the son of Jesus is Lord Church founder and CIBAC Representative Eddie Villanueva, clarified that the approval of the proposed measure was only at the committee level. “The approval of the divorce bill or any other bills at the committee level is part of the legislative process. Every member of the Senate is free to conduct hearings that are referred to their respective committees,” he said. “But I just want to clarify that the nine senators who signed the committee report do not represent the majority of the Senate. Most of our colleagues signed it so that it can be discussed in the plenary,” he said. Committee Report 124 was prepared by the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, headed by Senator Risa Hontiveros. Villanueva acknowledged that some relationships, particularly where violence is involved, should be ended, despite his firm opposition to the proposed measure. “This is where the annulment and the declaration of nullity of a marriage come in. We should instead hasten the process and make it more accessible to everyone, regardless of their status in life,” he said. Under the proposed measure, an absolute divorce is defined as “the legal termination of a marriage by a court in a legal proceeding, requiring a petition or complaint for divorce by one or both party/ies, which will have the effect of returning both parties to the status of being single for all legal intents and purposes, including the right to contract a subsequent marriage.” One of the grounds for filing for an absolute divorce is the commission of the crime of rape by the respondent-spouse against the petitioner-spouse, whether before or after the celebration of their marriage. The post Unhappy couples need fresh start — JV appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ejercito: Yes to divorce, ‘people don’t deserve to be miserable’
Married couples who are no longer happy with their marriage deserve a fresh start, Senate Deputy Majority Leader Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito said Thursday. In a press conference at the Senate, Ejercito explained why he voted in favor of Committee Report No. 124, which recommended the approval of Senate Bill No. 2443, or the proposed “Dissolution of Marriage Act”. “There are relationships that are already irreparable. We don’t want people to be miserable,” he said. “The bottom line is people don’t deserve to be miserable. If it’s irreparable, we have to give them a second chance,” he added. He, however, clarified that he purposely signed the committee report to allow the bill to be discussed more thoroughly in the plenary. “But of course, we are a Christian nation. That’s why it is difficult to have an annulment. We’ll just hear it. Anyway, I signed it because I want more discussion about it on the floor,” he said. Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, a staunch critic of the Divorce bill, remained firm in his opposition to the bill. “Divorce is a big no for me! Yes to making annulment accessible to the poor,” Villanueva said in a separate statement. The lawmaker, the son of Jesus is Lord Church founder and CIBAC Representative Eddie Villanueva, clarified that the approval of the proposed measure is only at the committee level. “The approval of the Divorce bill or any other bills at the committee level is part of the legislative process. Every member of the Senate is free to conduct hearings that are referred to their respective committees,” he said. “But I just want to clarify that the nine senators who signed the committee report do not represent the majority of the Senate. Most of our colleagues signed it so that it can be discussed in the plenary,” he added. Committee Report No. 124 was prepared by the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality headed by Senator Risa Hontiveros. Villanueva acknowledged that some relationships, particularly those involving violence, should end despite his firm opposition to the proposed measure. “This is where the annulment and declaration of nullity of marriage come in. We should instead hasten the process and make it more accessible for everyone, regardless of their status in life,” he said. Committee Report No. 124 is the consolidated version of the measure authored by the panel's chair Hontiveros, and Senators Raffy Tulfo, Robin Padilla, Imee Marcos and Pia Cayetano. It was signed by Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda, Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito and Senator Grace Poe. Under the proposed measure, absolute divorce is defined as “the legal termination of a marriage by a court in a legal proceeding, requiring a petition or complaint for divorce by one or both party/ies, which will have the effect of returning both parties to the status of single for all legal intents and purposes, including the right to contract a subsequent marriage.” One of the grounds for filing an absolute divorce is the commission of the crime of rape by the respondent-spouse against the petitioner-spouse, whether before or after the celebration of their marriage. The post Ejercito: Yes to divorce, ‘people don’t deserve to be miserable’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DND will expedite AFP modernization
The Department of National Defense is exerting all efforts to expedite the ongoing modernization program for the Armed Forces of the Philippines, including the conduct of a review to determine which projects should be prioritized, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said on Tuesday. In a chance interview, Teodoro stressed that the review is currently at a critical point because if it takes much longer, the prices of equipment and platforms being sought by the AFP are more likely to go up. “The fact that the sooner we wait and the sooner mas mabagal na matapos ang review natin, mamahal ng mamahal ang mga gamit,” he said. "We have to build up our capabilities as soon as possible, so this cannot be delayed and we are working day and night to try to establish our own systems and whatever capabilities that we can get from our treaty partners and other allies, we're trying to converge this into interoperable systems, its critical, highly critical that we get it now," he added. Hence, Teodoro hopes that the review will be completed by the end of the year. “It's by the end of the year because it really includes even where are we going to establish our bases, then the capabilities because if you will increase the capabilities, you will also increase your funding requirements,” he said. “Even though this platform (C-208B aircraft), is donated, we have to appropriate more funds to maintain and operate it in an optimal manner annually,” he added. Teodoro earlier ordered the AFP and his staff to start "rehorizoning" and "restrategization" the modernization program. More defense assets Further, Teodoro stressed the importance of upholding the country's territorial integrity and sovereign rights by acquiring more defense assets and weapon systems that are capable of confronting all kinds of security threats. Teodoro added he wants weapon systems and platforms to be acquired in the ongoing AFP modernization program to be capable of facing all kinds of security threats. “Another national security goal, which is of paramount importance now, is the ability to secure the territorial integrity of our country, to secure our sovereign rights and our jurisdiction,” he said. Teodoro acknowledges that acquiring these systems could be expensive, but it will be at least "synergistic" and capable of handling these security challenges. “The Philippines is a potential vital contributor to regional stability and security if we are a strong nation, with strong armed forces; and that is what we are working very hard to achieve,” he said. Meanwhile, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the military organization is now working on a more strategic approach as to how they will defend the country from any kind of security threat. “Well the secretary of national defense ordered also, not just the re-horizoning of our modernization program but to look really into our strategy of defending our country, so now we're looking at a change in our strategic direction when it comes to defending the archipelago because our modernization program will also depend on that shift in our strategy,” he said. Brawner said the AFP is focusing on defense projection covering the nine features “being occupied by the Philippines.” According to the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative, the Philippines occupies a total of nine features in the Spratly Islands. It said the Thitu Island, the largest, boasts the only Philippine airstrip in the Spratlys. The post DND will expedite AFP modernization appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NHA to launch 1st People’s Caravan
The National Housing Authority over the weekend announced that it will launch its first-ever People’s Caravan on 15 September 2023 at the Villa de Adelaida Housing Project in Brgy. Halang, Naic, Cavite. The program is the NHA’s new and innovative method of delivering various government services effectively and directly to the beneficiaries. NHA General Manager Joeben Tai’s directed Assistant General Manager Alvin S. Feliciano to head the activity, in cooperation with Naic Municipality Mayor Ruperto C. Dualan and Vice Mayor Junio C. Dualan. It can be recalled that the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) had already expressed its willingness to provide free legal consultations on housing-related concerns and other legal services. This is to signify their support for the success of the NHA’s initiative in bringing its services closer to the beneficiaries. In ensuring the health and wellness of the beneficiaries, the Municipality of Naic, Cavite, together with the Department of Health (DOH) will conduct a medical mission. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) will give away free vitamins and medicine to residents who are in need, while the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will offer free medical check-ups and haircuts. The Department of Agriculture (DA) will offer affordable agricultural products that can be purchased at the NHA-DA KADIWA store of the Department of Agriculture (DA). For residents interested in expanding their agricultural expertise, the DA Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) will conduct skills training demonstrations. The participants of the said training will receive starter kits and planting materials. The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on the other hand, will provide on-site internet services to help the beneficiaries with their online connectivity. For beneficiaries looking for work opportunities, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will hold a job fair together with the Public Employment Service Office. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will facilitate an intensive orientation on sustainable livelihood programs (SLP). The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is willing to teach business consultancy and literacy and orientation on business capital. Meanwhile, skills training demonstrations about food processing, food technology, and food packaging will be discussed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and DOST-Food and Nutrition Research Institute. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) will support the event through its LTO on Wheels by rendering renewal of motor vehicle registration, application for new/renewal of student permit, and renewal of Driver's License available. In addition, the Pag-IBIG Fund intends to register non-members and issue PAG-IBIG Loyalty Card Plus to NHA beneficiaries. The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) will render services in Philhealth ID registration and issuance. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) will assist beneficiaries through the registration of the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys), issuance of ePhilID, and application services of birth certificates, certificates of no marriage (CENOMAR), death certificates, and marriage certificates. Residents will also have the chance to accomplish their SSS membership enrollment and verification at the Social Security System booth. The People's Caravan is also in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in conducting free skills training demonstrations and training and orientation on the livelihood and scholarship programs and services. The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) will disseminate information on the programs and services of their agency. The Commission of Population and Development (CPD) will provide an orientation on their accessible services and programs and will distribute free population control kits. Meanwhile, the Province of Cavite will also provide essential services, and the Philippine National Police and AFP will ensure peace and safety during the conduct of the said caravan. In line with this, the NHA invites all Caviteños to join and support the very first People’s Caravan of the agency. To cater to more beneficiaries, four more People’s Caravans are expected to be launched in Luzon. The Authority is optimistic that future People’s Caravans in the country will gain more support and partnerships from other government agencies and the private sector. The post NHA to launch 1st People’s Caravan appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cherchez la femme?
Look for the woman is what the phrase Cherchez la femme means in the French language. By a person’s statement, he or she attributes a certain action or incident to be caused by a woman. It presupposes a negative connotation, but to me it symbolizes the strength and power of a woman. Indeed, so much in this world can be recharged, repaired, corrected, healed if we give women the opportunity and the chance to make a great difference in the world. Women hold half of the sky so they should be given all the means and tools to make a difference. As mothers they carry the baby in their womb for nine months. That takes much sacrifice, inconvenience and risks to their health. But because women are strong in faith and character, they bear all the difficulties with a smile and bravura. Women are teachers. They are the first tutors of her children. Their early values are honed by the mother. Children do not take our words seriously. It is how we conduct ourselves that they absorb their first lessons in life. Women are healers. Because of their compassionate and caring nature, they can assuage the hurts caused by unkind words as they console their loved ones with a big hug, a warm bowl of soup and their sage advice as symbolized by Mother Teresa who will soon be canonized as a saint because of her humane and loving treatment of everyone. Women are strong warriors. The katipuneras proved their valor and fearless nature when they fought side by side with the men as proven by Gabriela Silang, wife of hero Diego Silang. Women are born singers as they lull their infants to sleep in their cradles. Women are marvelous cooks as they plan and cook the healthy food for their families without missing a step. Women are creative seamstresses as they sew the uniforms and clothes of their children growing up. Women are wonderful social human beings as they reach out to neighbors and the community as social workers and nurses. Women are good accountants as they can stretch their household budget like a rubber band with nary a complaint. Women are prayerful persons as they constantly pray for the safety, good health and well-being of the entire family. Women above all are the constant partners and faithful lovers to their husbands. So, we ask, what can women not do? Women can do anything you ask of them provided they are given the due respect, love and support they need to accomplish any task big or small. They are also great coaches who can mentor both young men and women to fulfill their dreams. They are possessed of noble intentions, fierce in their belief that if one needs to perform a task, they will be up to it. So, the question is asked, Cherchez la femme? Where is the woman? She can be found in all mothers, wives, doctors, nurses, teachers, cooks, OFWs, drivers, CEOs, presidents, artists, singers, ballet dancers, farmers, graphic designers, authors, nuns, debaters, makeup artists, parliamentarians, scientists, politicians, models, accountants, lawyers, students, bakers, NGO leaders, laundrywomen, caregivers, environment warriors, gardeners, streetsweepers etc. We could go on and on. What this proves is women can be anyone she aspires to be and for as long as she finds herself valued and needed; she will be there. All she needs is to be valued and loved. After all women are love personified. They will give of themselves for as long as they have life in them. Vive La Femme! In 1989, Bing Carreon was recognized as one of The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service (TOWNS). In San Francisco, California, U.S.A., she was chosen as one of 100 Most Influential Global Filipinas for her books and advocacy work. As a social historian, she has written 46 coffee table books in the last 25 years found in select libraries around the world. For comments and suggestions please e-mail: bncmyob@gmail.com The post Cherchez la femme? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Photo exhibit shows scenes from the field by Howie Severino, Atom Araullo
I-Witness documentarists Howie Severino and Atom Araullo will share a selection of what they’ve seen in many years of coverage in a series of photo exhibits in SM malls. The first leg opened on 21 August at SM Santa Rosa in Laguna. The exhibits are being produced in partnership between I-Witness and SM Malls. Titled Unmasked, the exhibits mainly feature photos shot while Araullo and Severino were producing I-Witness stories as varied as a non-violent way to conduct the drug war and the plight of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. They’ve journeyed to numerous far-flung places, including an island that lost all its land, and documented desperate people whose stories ached to be told. [caption id="attachment_177127" align="aligncenter" width="764"] Howie Severino[/caption] In one episode, the documentarist became the story, as Severino was among the country’s first Covid-19 survivors. His documentary, Ako si Patient 2828, was one of the most watched Philippine documentaries on YouTube in recent memory, and won Best Documentary in the Gawad Tanglaw Awards in 2020. Just before he got sick, Severino was an evacuee from the Taal Volcano eruption of 2020. He lives on the shores of Taal Lake. That experience too is featured in the exhibit. Unmasked remembers a world just before the pandemic shut it down and celebrates a return to interactions where faces are visible once again. Atom will share photographs taken during his travels and documentary-making in the Philippines and abroad. Some of these include his trip to Bangladesh for his first documentary for I-Witness, Silang Kinalimutan. The documentary showed the story of Rohingya refugees who fled to neighboring Bangladesh after the Myanmar government denied them citizenship. It won a gold medal at the 2018 US International Film and Video Festival for Documentary’s Social Issues category. “This exhibit is a chance for us to share our work in the real world, away from screens, and interact with real people and not just names online,” said Severino. The post Photo exhibit shows scenes from the field by Howie Severino, Atom Araullo appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Joint drills with US, Australia not meant to provoke a particular country — Brawner
The Philippines’ execution of joint military exercises with its counterparts, including the United States and Australia, is not meant to provoke a particular country, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. stressed on Monday. Brawner cited the recent conduct of the biggest United States-Philippines Balikatan Exercises, which has been observed annually under both countries’ mutual defense treaty. "'Yung ginagawa nating coalition, 'yung ginagawa nating mga joint exercises ( The coalition and the joint exercises that we are doing) are not addressed toward one specific country," Brawner told reporters in a chance interview shortly after the National Heroes Day event at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Earlier this month, the Philippines and Australia, assisted by the US, began their first-ever bilateral amphibious warfare exercise in San Antonio, Zambales. It is part of the Philippines-Australia’s “Exercise ALON”, with 700 AFP personnel joining along with 1, 200 members of the Australian Defense Force and 150 officers of United States Marine Corps. Exercise ALON, which runs until 31 August, is part of the Indo-Pacific Endeavour activity between the Philippines and Australia for 2023, which targets close collaboration between the AFP and ADF to increase interoperability and deepen people-to-people links to enhance defense cooperation. The Indo-Pacific Endeavor is Australia's flagship international engagement activity in the Southeast Asian and Indian Ocean region. Brawner insisted that these exercises with other countries would not necessarily provoke China’s aggression. "No, we don't believe that they will be more aggressive because of that. In fact, we have been doing this for a longer time already," Brawner said. "'Yung Balikatan Exercises na ginagawa natin every year, nandiyan po 'yung mga sundalo ng US, nandiyan po 'yung mga sundalo ng Australia, may mga observers tayo from Japan, we also have observers from other nations (We conduct Balikatan every year, US troops are there, Australian soldiers are there and we have observers from Japan),” he added. The post Joint drills with US, Australia not meant to provoke a particular country — Brawner appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Dela Rosa on China ‘allowing’ resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal: ‘Who are they?’
The Philippines does not need China’s approval to operate within its territorial waters, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa said. In a chance interview with reporters, Dela Rosa questioned China’s recent claims that the successful rotation and resupply mission of the Armed Forces of the Philippines for the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin shoal was allowed only due to the Chinese’s “humanitarian consideration.” “Sino sila? Sino sila para mag-a-approve kung anong dadalhin natin doon para sa ating outpost, para sa ating mga sundalo doon sa outpost? Bakit nila tayo pigilan kung anong gusto nating dalhin? (Who are they? Who are they to approve our operation for our outpost, whatever we want to bring to our soldiers in our outpost? Why should they stop us from what we want to bring there?).” In a television interview, National Task Force for the WPS spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela denied China’s claims that it has extended humanitarian consideration to the Philippines. “That’s not true that they have allowed the path of the supply boasts to enter Ayungin shoal. Even the supply boast that we are using to deliver the supplies was blocked and intercepted by the Chinese Coast Guard vessels. So it’s not true, they are lying when they said that they are extending humanitarian consideration,” Tarriela stressed. Tarriela described the recent RoRe mission as “not a walk in the park” as China again threatened the Philippines with its usual aggressive tactics. CCG ships and other China militia vessels attempted to obstruct the Philippine resupply boats delivering fresh provisions to the military personnel stationed on BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal last 22 August. China vessels also reactivated their water cannons during the RoRe mission. AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said they are now looking into other strategies for the future resupply mission in the area. Meanwhile, Dela Rosa lamented that China’s recent blockage attempts against Philippine vessels serve as an “advancement of their own position.” “Gusto nila talaga na masira iyong barko nating Sierra Madre para ‘pag masira na ‘yan, magiba, wala na tayong matitirahan at sila na ang papalit sa atin, aagawin na nila ‘yan (They really want ship Sierra Madre to be totally destroyed so that they can positioned themselves when we will have no place to live and they will replace us, they will seize it),” he said. On the other hand, Senator Raffy Tulfo recommended to the AFP and the Department of the National Defense to allow the Philippine Coast Guard to conduct a joint military operation involving a resupply mission with the United States Navy to drive away the CCG trying to block the country’s sovereign rights over the WPS. The post Dela Rosa on China ‘allowing’ resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal: ‘Who are they?’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sultan Kudarat top insurgent falls
ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Joint Task Force Central on Tuesday reported that a high-ranking leader of the New People’s Army and one of the highly-valued targets of the military was killed during an encounter with state troops in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat. JTF-C Commander Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera said the leader of NPA’s Beijing Platoon of the Far South Mindanao Region died in the clash at Sitio Kalogkog, Badiangon, Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat shortly before midnight on Sunday. Rillera identified the slain NPA leader as Joseph Longan alias Michael, one of the remaining leaders of the NPA-FMR. “Due to the report earlier that NPAs are recruiting high school students in the Sultan Kudarat area, we have intensified the operation against these NPAs that resulted in the neutralization of Longan,” Rillera said. Meantime, 603rd Brigade commander Brigadier General Michael Santos revealed that a grenade, food and personal belongings were also recovered from Longan’s possession. “These NPA members have nowhere to go in our area (Sultan Kudarat) because we will continue to conduct military operations against them,” Santos said. Rillera also renewed his appeal to the remaining NPA members to return to the government. “We will give you a chance to change your life with your beloved families, your government is here to help you because no one wins by using force,” Rillera said. “We know that you were just a victim of the treacherous senior NPA members of the group who brought your colleague to such a terrible misfortune. We are ready to listen to your grievances,” he added. JTF-Central records showed that of the total 42 NPAs logged, seven were arrested, 12 were killed while 23 surrendered to the government since January this year. The post Sultan Kudarat top insurgent falls appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Inter-agency cooperation
What is inter-agency? It is something we often hear about, but do not really understand. So let me try to define it. It is really quite simple but interesting. Inter-agency is when two or more government agencies work together to achieve a certain public purpose. Although different departments have different mandates and objectives, it is possible that the means to achieve the same overlap, are complementary, or even the same. Therefore, to avoid duplicity in program generation and implementation, it is better for the different agencies involved to join together to implement one common program. In this way, valuable resources are maximized and more inputs become available to ensure the success of the project. This was recently seen in the “Tara, Basa!” tutoring program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development or DSWD in partnership with the Department of Education or DepEd. Under Executive Order or EO 221, Series of 2003, the DSWD is mandated to assist local government units, non-government organizations, other national government agencies, people’s organizations, and members of civil society in effectively creating and then implementing programs, projects, and services that will alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life for their target beneficiaries. These beneficiaries are disadvantaged individuals, families and communities. The EO also mandates the DSWD to implement other statutory and specialized programs which are directly lodged with it and/or are not yet devolved to LGUs. The tutoring program aims to connect with college students from low-income families who will get the chance to earn money by participating in this initiative. Per the DSWD, the 20-day program, which is implemented in partnership with the DepEd, gives participating students P570 per day as tutors and Youth Development Workers or YDW. The immediate beneficiaries of the program are struggling non-readers who are incoming second graders. Non-reader students are those who cannot read or comprehend what is being read. In addition, the YDW program also directs the holding of sessions with parents and guardians on effective parenting topics, such as the dynamics of the Filipino family, the stages of child development, and children’s rights. The parents of participating learners get P235 per day in cash aid. On the other hand, Republic Act 9155, otherwise known as the Governance of Basic Education Act of 2001, mandates the DepEd to formulate, implement, and coordinate policies, plans, programs, and projects in the areas of formal and non-formal basic education. DepEd also supervises all elementary and secondary education institutions, including alternative learning systems, both public and private; and provides for the establishment and maintenance of a complete, adequate, and integrated system of basic education relevant to the goals of national development. After the 20-day tutoring program, DepEd will conduct a post-test initiative to measure if the learners were able to gain knowledge in reading. And as can be gleaned from the post-event evaluation study already undertaken, DepEd has shown itself to be true to its mandate of supervising alternative learning systems, both public and private. This is a great gauge of the success of the tutoring project, not only for the target learners, but for the volunteers as well. This is also an encouraging sign for our government. Due to the many areas in society which require government intervention and official attention, it is a welcome sight that two agencies are working together, pooling resources, time, and talent to achieve their respective mandates, which at the bottom is poverty alleviation, an empowered citizenry, and nation building. I sincerely wish and look forward to more collaborations such as this among government agencies, as it is an uplifting example of inter-agency cooperation to achieve a common public goal. Cheers to those who tirelessly work to make this collaboration true. The post Inter-agency cooperation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Kim oversees N. Korea military parade showcasing new drones, ICBMs
Flanked by visiting Russian and Chinese officials, Kim Jong Un oversaw a North Korean military parade featuring new drones and Pyongyang's nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles, state media reported Friday. At least four new North Korean military drones were towed on trailers through Pyongyang's Kim Il Sung square at the parade late Thursday, state media images showed, while another drone appeared to conduct a flyover overhead. Standing between Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chinese politburo member Li Hongzhong in the VIP viewing stands, Kim smiled and saluted as thousands of soldiers marched past, trailed by the country's most powerful ICBMs, which are banned under UN sanctions. The event, featuring Kim's first-known foreign guests since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, was to mark the 70th anniversary of the Korean War armistice, which ended open hostilities and is celebrated as Victory Day. Kim "extended warm militant greetings" to the parade, the official Korean Central News Agency said, and North Korea's defense minister Kang Sun Nam made a speech. The United States has no chance "of survival in case they use nuclear weapons against the DPRK", Kang said, referring to the North by its official name. He warned that any attempts by the United States to use armed force against the North would cause an "unimaginable and unforeseen crisis". The parade featured an array of new weaponry, including some first unveiled at a defense expo on Wednesday in Pyongyang, visited by Kim and Shoigu. North Korea's new underwater nuclear attack drone, called the "Haeil", appeared at the parade for the first time, Seoul-based specialist site NK News reported. "The strategic reconnaissance drone and the multi-purpose attack drone which was newly developed and produced... made circular flights in the sky above the (Kim Il Sung square," KCNA said. The "excitement and great joy of the spectators reached its height" when the nuclear-armed country's newest ICBM -- the solid-fuel Hwasong-18, tested in April and July this year -- was paraded through the square, KCNA said. The tests were roundly condemned by Seoul, Washington and Tokyo, and violate UN sanctions banning the North from any tests using ballistic missile technology. 'Send the US a signal' The parade is a key part of "promoting Kim Jong Un's ruling legitimacy and internal unity in this economically challenging time", Yangmo Ku, a political science professor at Norwich University, told AFP. But this year, with the inclusion of high-level guests from Moscow and Beijing, Pyongyang is also sending America "a signal that under strengthened ties with Russia and China, North Korea is militarily ready to cope with strategic threats from its enemies", he said. "All these acts mean the emergence of the new Cold War surrounding the Korean Peninsula," Ku added. Beijing is North Korea's most important ally and economic benefactor, their relationship forged in the bloodshed of the Korean War in the 1950s. "China's representation at North Korea's parading of nuclear-capable missiles raises serious questions about Beijing enabling Pyongyang's threats to global security," said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul. Russia, another historic ally, is one of a handful of nations with which Pyongyang maintains friendly relations, and experts said it was noteworthy that Moscow had sent Shoigu to the anniversary celebrations -- a rare visit by a Russian defense chief in the post-Soviet era. Kim has been steadfast in his support for Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, including, Washington says, supplying rockets and missiles -- a charge Pyongyang has denied. Russia's President Vladimir Putin sent a speech, read out by Shoigu at an anniversary event, according to KCNA, in which Moscow's leader hailed North Korea for its "firm support for special military operations against Ukraine". Easley said that "given Russia's need for ammunition for its illegal war in Ukraine and (Kim's) willingness to personally give the Russian defense minister a tour of North Korea's arms exhibition, UN member states should increase vigilance for observing and penalizing sanctions violations". The inclusion of foreign guests at this year's celebrations is a post-pandemic first, and hints at new flexibility toward enforcing border controls. North Korea has imposed a rigid Covid-19 blockade since early 2020, preventing even its own nationals from entering the country. It only resumed some trade with China last year and allowed new Beijing envoy Wang Yajun to take up his position this year. He is the first known senior diplomat to cross into North Korea since the border closure in January 2020. The post Kim oversees N. Korea military parade showcasing new drones, ICBMs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PNP: Fair treatment for SoNA rallyists
The Philippine National Police discourage the burning of effigies during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s second State of the Nation Address or SoNA by any groups that would demonstrate support or protests on Monday. In a radio interview on Saturday, PNP spokesperson, Col. Jean Fajardo, said the destruction of effigies by progressive groups will not be allowed during their demonstration as it would cause heavy traffic. “ We have already conveyed the request that we discourage the burning of effigies. There are existing laws when it comes to burning in public places,” Fajardo said, noting that the Quezon City government provided permits to four groups for the upcoming SoNA. She also noted that protesters are only allowed to position in Tandang Sora near Commonwealth, while pro-government groups are designated in front of the St. Peter Parish also along Commonwealth. The city government has allotted between 2 and 3 lanes for protesters or rallyists along Commonwealth Avenue. It also opened a zipper lane on the southbound. Fajardo said the two different groups are given more or less two kilometers distance to prevent possible commotion between them during their demonstrations on Monday. “There are given safe distances between these groups that have acquired permits,” she added. Fajardo said the PNP will apply fair treatment between the administration supporters and anti-government groups. “Whatever security coverage will be given to militant groups will be the same treatment to be provided with the pro-government rallyists,” she said while assuring that the PNP has enough security personnel to cover these different groups. Fajardo warned that police would not allow any group to leave their designated areas as stipulated in the permits. “We are hoping for their compliance to what has been agreed upon,” she said. The PNP will allow progressive groups to demonstrate from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. while pro-government groups will conduct their programs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fajardo said. Rallyists are given a chance to demonstrate according to what has been provided by their permits, she added: “It was very clear where should they stay and they should maintain discipline among their ranks.” ‘PNP 100% ready for SoNA’ In a separate radio interview, PNP Public Affairs Chief, BGen. Redrico Maranan said the PNP is all set for the President’s second SoNA noting that they have not monitored any threat ahead of the event. “Patuloy ang paglalatag natin ng security measures at patuloy ang pagkalap natin ng impormasyon sa paligid (We continue to lay down security measures and acquiring more information in the surroundings),” he said. Maranan said more than 22,000 police personnel, including a force multiplier, will be deployed in the entire Metro Manila during SoNA. The post PNP: Fair treatment for SoNA rallyists appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
No burning of effigies — PNP
The Philippine National Police discourage the burning of effigies during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s second State of the Nation Address by any groups that would demonstrate support or protests on Monday. In a radio interview on Saturday, PNP spokesperson, Col. Jean Fajardo, said the destruction of effigies by progressive groups will not be allowed during their demonstration as it would cause heavy traffic. "Naiparating na natin ang pakiusap na dinidiscourage natin yung pagususnog ng effigy. May mga umiiral na batas pagdating sa pagsusunog sa public place (We have already conveyed the request that we discourage the burning of effigies. There are existing laws when it comes to burning in public places,” Fajardo said, noting that the Quezon City government provided permits to four groups for the upcoming SONA. She also noted that protesters are only allowed to position in Tandang Sora near Commonwealth, while pro-government groups are designated in front of the St. Peter Parish also along Commonwealth. The city government has allotted between two and three lanes for protesters along Commonwealth Avenue. It also opened a zipper lane on the southbound. Fajardo said the two different groups are given more or less two kilometers distance to prevent possible commotion between them during their demonstrations on Monday “There are given safe distances between these groups that have acquired permits,” she added. Fajardo said the PNP will apply fair treatment between the administration supporters and anti-government groups. "Kung ano ang security coverage na ibibigay natin sa militanteng grupo ay same treatment din ang ibibigay natin sa pro-government na magra-rally (Whatever security coverage will be given to militant groups will be the same treatment to be provided with the pro-government rallyists),” she said, assuring that the PNP has enough security personnel to cover these different groups. Fajardo warned that police would not allow any group to leave their designated areas as stipulated in the permits. "Inaasahan natin sa kanilang hanay na sila ay tutupad doon sa napagkasunduan (We are hoping for their compliance to what have been agreed upon),” she said. The PNP will allow progressive groups to demonstrate from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. while pro-government groups will conduct their programs from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., said Fajardo. Rallyists are given a chance to demonstrate according to what has been provided by their permits, she added: “It was very clear where should they stay and they should maintain discipline among their ranks.” Fajardo said there at least 20,000 police, including personnel from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and Land Transportation Office, will be deployed during the SONA. Around 2,000 and 3,000 law enforcement personnel will be visible around the Batasang Pambansa Complex, the venue of the SONA, in Quezon City. The post No burning of effigies — PNP appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AFP assures only well-trained professionals to handle mandatory ROTC
The Armed Forces of the Philippines will make sure that the Reserve Officers' Training Corps will be implemented accordingly and professionally by well-trained military handlers, especially should it becomes mandatory, newly-designated AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., said Friday. In a chance interview with reporters, Brawner cited the cases of hazing and physical and verbal abuse as well as other malpractices related to the ROTC in the past; hence, the AFP is preparing for proper and relevant conduct of the program in the future. “We are going to do away with that, by making sure that we have a professional core of soldiers and officers who will take care, take charge and manage the new program of the ROTC so ‘yun yung gusto nating gawin (that’s what we wanted to do), that is why right now, we are already training our core of professionals, officers, enlisted personnel who will handle the ROTC,” he said. “Ayaw na natin maulit ‘yung nangyari noong nakaraang programa ng ROTC (We don’t want the old practices to happen again in the ROTC program).” While the AFP is still waiting for the legislation of the ROTC bill, Brawner said there are ongoing preparations already in place. “The way that I understand it, it will not be the Department of National Defense who will be the lead agency rather it will be DepEd. So but the implementation will be done by the Department of National Defense, particularly the Armed Forces of the Philippines. So on our part, we are now preparing,” he noted. ‘ “Looking at the past experience that we have in ROTC, there are abuses in the past.” Expressing his full support for the revival of mandatory ROTC, Brawner said it will prepare every Filipino youth not only to become soldiers “but to become good citizens” that are ready to fight “any challenge or any threat —whether it is man-made or natural calamities.” ROTC in the Philippines is currently being taken optional by tertiary students, through the NSTP STP Act of 2001, following the death of the University of Santo Tomas sophomore cadet Mark Welson Chua, who had exposed corruption in the university’s ROTC program. The bill seeking mandatory ROTC is currently being discussed in the Senate plenary. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as well as vice-president and Education Secretary, Sara Duterte, earlier backed the revival of the program, making it mandatory for all Filipino students. The post AFP assures only well-trained professionals to handle mandatory ROTC appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gov’t seeks French groups’ aid
The government had sought the support of French businesses in the Philippines’ bid to renew the European Union Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus or EU-GSP+ perks. Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said negotiation for the Philippines-European Union Free Trade Agreement had resumed. Earlier, Pascual said the Philippines will renew its special incentive arrangement on the EU GSP+ for competitive advantage, as the EU GSP+ is set to expire in December 2023. The GSP allows duty-free exports for about 6,000 tariff items to the European Union, which enables cheaper entry of Philippine goods into the EU market. While for the EU FTA, the last second round of negotiations took place in February 2017, and no further negotiating rounds have been scheduled yet. Pascual sought the help of French trade groups during his roundtable meeting with MEDEF International, a leading network of entrepreneurs in France with over 95 percent of the businesses being SMEs. Ideal destination Pascual also took the chance to present the Philippines as an ideal investment destination with the aim of fostering potential partnerships and collaborations with French companies. Pascual acknowledged that MEDEF International is instrumental in strengthening trade and investment relations between the Philippines and France. “Recently, we witnessed the visit organized by MEDEF International for its members in the Philippines, where many of your companies participated. These developments indicate not only the interest and confidence of the French companies in the Philippines but also the strong relationship we enjoy at the business level,” Pascual said. Further, he emphasized that the Philippines is open for business and that the recent game-changing economic reforms such as the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises, amended Public Service Act, amended Foreign Investments Act, and the amended Retail Trade Liberalization Act are testaments to the country’s goal of attracting global players who can modernize our domestic industry and service sectors while diversifying and expanding exports. “With the reforms I highlighted, the Philippines has seen significant investments in various industries. Our Board of Investments recorded a 200 percent surge in foreign investments in 2021, totaling EUR 11 billion across 235 projects. From 2020 to 2022, the Philippines received a total Net Foreign Direct Investment Flow of $28 billion, with Europe accounting for a significant portion,” the Trade chief said. Likewise, he mentioned that the government has initiated the roll out of the Philippine Business Hub, a platform that aims to simplify business transactions through digital and online processes. “This initiative streamlines the registration of businesses, permit renewals, and other activities, making it easier and faster to conduct business in the Philippines,” he added. About 13 companies from various sectors such as finance, infrastructure, manufacturing, services, and transportation attended the roundtable meeting and expressed a positive outlook toward the opportunities available in the Philippines for French businesses as presented by the delegation. The post Gov’t seeks French groups’ aid appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»