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Division of Wao, Lanao del Sur feared to provoke violence anew
WAO, Lanao del Sur (MindaNews / 10 March) — Residents of this town fear a return to its bloody past – a time in the 1970s when land conflict pitted the Christian settlers against the native Moro inhabitants – if a bill proposing to divide it into two pushes through at the Bangsamoro Parliament. Parliament […].....»»
How nations allow or restrict legal gender change
A small number of countries have made it easier for transgender people to change their legal gender, while other nations have restricted such changes, notably Russia and Pakistan. Here is a snapshot of the situation around the world. Exception, not the rule According to the International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA), 24 UN member states have legally allowed people to change their gender on the basis of self-identification. In about 40 other countries, the legal and administrative process can take years and may include requirements such as psychiatric diagnosis, hormone treatment, gender confirmation surgery, or even sterilization. Making it easier Argentina has led the way on transgender rights, allowing a change of gender on national ID cards with a simple declaration since 2012. Several Latin American countries have followed suit. Denmark was the first European country in 2014 to allow adults to apply for a gender change without undergoing medical or psychological assessments, with Belgium, Ireland, Malta, Norway, Portugal, and most recently Spain following suit. Since 2017, France has allowed transgender people to change their status on their ID documents without treatment, surgery, or sterilization but they must receive court approval. The issue of trans rights sparked a fierce row in 2022 in Scotland, where parliament passed a bill making it easier for people to self-identify their gender that was sensationally vetoed by London. The German cabinet in August 2023 signed off plans under which Germans will be able to change their name or legal gender by making a simple application to their local registry office. The law still has to go to parliament. Hesitating Sweden, one of the world's most liberal countries, was the first in the world to authorize physical and legal gender reassignment for adults in 1972. But last year it began restricting hormone therapy available for children diagnosed with gender dysphoria, such as puberty blockers, citing the need for caution following a strong increase in demand. It also restricted access to mastectomies for teenage girls wanting to transition. Finland in 2020 had already restricted hormone treatment for minors. Making it harder Russia adopted new legislation in July 2023 banning "medical interventions aimed at changing the sex of a person" and "the state registration of a change of gender without an operation". President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly railed against transgender rights in his speeches. Pakistan's religious judiciary ruled in May that landmark transgender legal protections from 2018 are un-Islamic and therefore void. An appeal is being sought with the Supreme Court. Pakistan continues to recognize the existence of a third gender, neither masculine nor feminine, as do India and Nepal. Restricting gender-affirming treatment, such as puberty blockers for minors, has become a major campaign of US conservatives. Arkansas in 2021 became the first US state to ban physicians and health workers from offering transition-related treatment to transgender minors. A federal judge in June overturned the ban. Around 20 states, including Florida and Texas, have passed similar laws. Anti-LGBTQ sentiment in Hungary has escalated during the rule of Viktor Orban's right-wing government. In May 2020, the country passed a law making it impossible for transgender people to change their name and gender on their ID documents. The post How nations allow or restrict legal gender change appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bulusan acting up anew — Phivolcs
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, or Phivolcs, on Monday warned of increased chances of steam-driven or phreatic eruptions occurring at the crater or summit of Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon province. Phivolcs said it has recorded 87 volcanic earthquakes in the Bulusan Volcano Network since 5 a.m. on 14 October, of which 29 were volcano-tectonic earthquakes. The agency also observed weak to moderate degassing at the active summit crater and vents this week. Bulusan has emitted an average of 241 tons of volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas daily since 19 October. Phivolcs also noted an increase in volcanic carbon dioxide concentrations from June to August 2023, and an increase in volcanic spring temperatures since February. Phivolcs said these parameters indicate that hydrothermal activity driven by deep magma degassing may be occurring beneath the volcano and may lead to steam-driven eruptions at any of the summit vents. However, Bulusan remains under Alert Level 0 (normal) although Phivolcs reminded the public that increased chances of steam-driven or phreatic eruptions occurring at the crater or summit area are still expected. Phivolcs has warned the public against entering the four-kilometer-radius permanent danger zone, particularly near the vents on the south-southeastern slopes due to the possibility of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruptions, rockfalls and landslides. Flying close to the volcano’s summit should also be avoided as ash from a sudden phreatic eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. Phivolcs also warned people living in the valleys and along the river or stream channels to be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows and lahar in the event of heavy and prolonged rainfall. The post Bulusan acting up anew — Phivolcs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BoC-NAIA turns 63
Beyond Borders: A New Era for Digitalization and Customs Excellence was the theme chosen by the Bureau of Customs -Ninoy Aquino International Airport to commemorate its 63rd founding anniversary and over 60 years of dedicated public service. District Collector Atty. Yasmin Mapa emphasized the BoC-NAIA’s impressive accomplishments and development while Collector Mapa praised the port’s exceptional revenue collection record, which generated a total of P31.3 billion in revenue from January to September this year. This represented an increase of P1.3 billion over the prior year and outperformed the collection target for the time by P1.1 billion. This success demonstrates BoC-NAIA’s ongoing dedication to assisting the Bureau in achieving its broad objectives. Collector Mapa stated that in August 2023, BoC-NAIA passed its second surveillance audit for ISO quality management system certification, recognizing the value of simplified customs procedures. With 23 enrolled ISO-certified processes and 10 ISO support processes, the port has the most certified processes of any BOC port. With this accreditation, cargo clearance procedures are guaranteed to be recognized internationally, facilitating trade for stakeholders and customers. She added that BoC-NAIA will remain steadfast in its enforcement policies, intercepting narcotics with an estimated street value of P994 million in 2023. Collector Mapa highlighted the port’s role in preventing the entry of illicit goods, seizing a total of P1 billion worth of drugs, jewellery, wildlife, currencies, medicines, and other regulated items. The port received commendations from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for curbing wildlife smuggling. BoC-NAIA is aggressively advancing digitization initiatives in keeping with the celebration’s theme. The port is organizing consultative discussions for the electronic tracking of air cargo and is currently in the pilot testing phase of the electronic airwaybill filing. In addition, there are plans to categorize goods and work with pertinent organizations to integrate iDeclare into the e-travel system to provide a centralised platform for trip declarations. A memorandum of agreement between the BoC and the Philippine Postal Corporation was ceremonially signed during this celebration in an effort to speed up, secure and enhance the quality of customs clearance for postal commodities. At the ceremony, BoC-NAIA showcased its newly revamped website and E-Airway Bill System, showcasing its dedication to operating more efficiently. The event was capped off with awards for top imports and standout personnel, underscoring their critical contribution to the port’s development and prosperity. Collector Mapa expressed appreciation to Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, Deputy Commissioners, and Bureau of Customs employees for their assistance and the chance to assist stakeholders. Collector Mapa stressed the port’s commitment, saying, “This is who we are. This is the customary excellence we are honoured to exude. Unfazed by any threat. Straightforward in the application of policies and loyal to the direction of the agency Performing our duties even beyond borders and striving to introduce digitalization programs tailored for the unique operations of the airport.” Rubio, who graced the celebration, commended the BoC-NAIA for their hard work and dedication in forging economic growth and serving as a vital gateway for trade. “Reflecting upon the journey that brought us to this milestone after six eventful decades, we must acknowledge the individuals who have dedicated themselves to the development of the Port of NAIA — from the pioneers who envisioned its potential to the diligent officers who labor tirelessly day in and day out,” he said. The post BoC-NAIA turns 63 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Canada firm on online news act, but ‘optimistic’ of Google buy-in
Canada "will not back down" in the face of opposition from tech giants to a new law requiring companies like Google and Meta to pay publishers for news content, Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge said Friday. She said she was "optimistic" that Google would come around, while Meta continues to take a hard line against the bill. The Online News Act builds on similar legislation introduced in Australia and aims to support a struggling Canadian news sector that has seen a flight of advertising dollars and hundreds of publications closed in the last decade. "We've seen two different types of reactions," St-Onge told press bosses gathered in Toronto for a media conference. "Google has been participating and collaborating throughout the entire process and on the other hand, Meta chose to ban news in Canada even though the act is not even currently enforced." Meta has called Bill C-18 "fundamentally flawed" and, starting in August, blocked news access in Canada to news articles on its Facebook and Instagram platforms. Google has also voiced opposition to the Online News Act, adopted in June but only set to come into force in December. The two companies control about 80 percent of all online advertising revenues in Canada. The government has estimated it could cost the pair a combined Can$230 million (US$170 million) by requiring them to make fair commercial deals with Canadian outlets for the news and information that is shared on their platforms, or face binding arbitration. St-Onge acknowledged that Google "does not wish to end up in an arbitration process" for commercial agreements, while Facebook "doesn't want to regulate content." "We are trying to strike the right balance," she said, aware that other nations are watching and interested in how this will play out. The minister commented that this is "new territory." "Canada is only the second jurisdiction in the world to enact this type of bargaining framework," after Australia. "We are leading the way but we're also facing a lot of resistance from tech giants," she said. Contacted by AFP, Google Canada maintained Friday that "critical structural issues" with the bill "have not been sufficiently addressed." "We continue to be concerned that these fundamental issues cannot be resolved through regulation and that legislative changes may be necessary," a spokesman said in an email. The post Canada firm on online news act, but ‘optimistic’ of Google buy-in appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Solons confident of lower prices in October despite September 6.1% inflation
September inflation rate soared to 6.1 percent, but lawmakers are optimistic that prices of goods and services will likely dissipate this month. Albay Rep. Joey Salceda and Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga, who head the House Committee on Ways and Means, and Agriculture and Food Committee, respectively, were saying that the inflation, or the rate of increase in the prices of goods and services, will not be perceptible this October due to the lifting of rice price ceiling and the ongoing harvest season. The Philippine Statistics Authority reported on Thursday that commodity prices jumped anew in September, with the inflation rate rising to 6.1 percent from 5.3 percent in August, bringing year-to-date inflation to 6.6 percent. September's inflation rate was the sharpest in four months. Salceda said the uptick can be solely attributed to rice price spikes and the global surge oil price spike in September. However, he believes that this could dissipate this month as global oil prices experienced a significant decline towards the end of September and with compliance with the rice price ceiling imposed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The price cap on rice, recently enforced by the President via Executive Order 39, intends to exert pressure on individuals or entities holding rice inventories to sell it at a reasonable price in hopes that this move will purge the supply shortage and price increase. EO 39 sets the price of regularly milled rice to P41 while P45 is for well-milled rice. However, Mr. Marcos lifted the price cap on Wednesday, or a day before the imposition mark its first month. While rice prices went up 17.9% year-on-year in September, Salceda noted global rice prices took a nosedive in late September and are now at their lowest point since early August. Salceda, however, forecasted that September inflation is "probably the worst inflation rate we will record for the "ber" months, and it gets better from here." Despite having optimistic forecasts for the inflation rate in October and subsequent periods, the economist-lawmaker asserts the necessity of implementing measures to alleviate potential risks. "Food prices still need to be watched out for, especially because the ber months typically tend to be bonus season, which is naturally inflationary," he said. In the same vein, Enverga anticipates a steady decline in inflation rates, and this month's will be on a downward trend due to the ongoing harvest season, which "historically plays in stabilizing prices and alleviating economic pressures on the public." Harvest season starts in September and will last up to November. "As the harvest season approaches, we can anticipate stabilization and, eventually, a decrease in inflation rates. Our nation's agricultural sector is a cornerstone of our economy, and the bountiful harvests ahead will undoubtedly have a significant impact on curbing inflation," Enverga pointed out. Moreover, he emphasized the decrease in the pricing of crucial agricultural commodities, such as sugar, attributable to strategic changes implemented within the farming industry. September inflation is primarily attributed to higher food prices, which surged 10 percent from 8.2 percent in August. Key contributors include rice (17.9% from 8.7%), meat (1.3% from -0.1%), fruits (11.6% from 9.6%), and corn (1.6% from 0.9%). In contrast, the prices of sugar, fish, vegetables, eggs and dairy products, and bread and cereals experienced slower inflation. The post Solons confident of lower prices in October despite September 6.1% inflation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Budgetary leverage
By passing a financing bill at the last minute, the United States Congress avoided a federal government shutdown this week. However, the Biden administration’s top priorities, including defense financing for Ukraine, were left out of the final package. For countries like the Philippines, which has cozied up anew to Uncle Sam, this is cause for concern because America has practically left Ukraine high and dry without the full backing it needs to defend itself against Russia. Okay, so Biden said they “will not walk out of Ukraine.” Still, without funding, that’s just lip service. Having perfected the art of emotional suasion at one end of the pole and brinkmanship on the other, we would not be surprised if Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky would tell Biden: “Show us the money.” Sacrificing Ukraine casts doubt on America’s dependability as a coalition partner and ally, even as it stakes a claim to a long tradition of backing democracies in their fight for independence. The Philippines should take note. In the US, it’s clear that whatever the executive branch pledges, the US Congress can always override or, as made apparent again now, starve of funding. That’s the power of holding the purse string that could certainly affect America the mighty’s projection of power. From propping up South Vietnam with billions of dollars in war materiel only to leave Saigon in a huff — with choppers flying off the rooftop of the US Embassy in a hasty, humiliating retreat in 1975 — to giving substantial aid to Israel and Middle Eastern countries, the US has not stopped its posturing as the “policeman of the world.” As in Vietnam and Afghanistan, where in the latter it also abruptly pulled out its forces, thereby allowing the Taliban to retake the country in 2021, the US, for all its fire-and-brimstone statements at the start of the Ukraine-Russia war, may have turned its back on its legal and moral responsibility to aid Kyiv. As an adversarial state under madman Vladimir Putin, Russia has been destabilizing international norms, and Ukraine, by fighting back, has been sending the strong message that autocratic governments cannot make the globe their playground. By not including money for Ukraine’s defense in the 2024 spending bill, the US has lost the chance to demonstrate its dedication to the defense of democracy. But such are the vagaries of the budgeting process in the United States and, of course, the Philippines, with the latter’s form of government and jurisprudence loosely patterned after America’s. In the US, government shutdowns have happened before and will happen again when the legislature and the executive branches are unable to reach an agreement on priorities and lawmakers do not enact a budget in a timely manner. The budget can also be wielded as a political baton with which to make the executive branch more malleable. An example would be the 2013 shutdown in an attempt to defund the Affordable Care Act. Frequent disagreements on spending priorities between the two parties in the US Congress have led to stalemates, with neither side willing to pass the budget unless their demands were met. Budget delays had caused negative effects on the economy and public services. Some may argue that past shutdowns of the US federal government would show the Philippines has a more mature budgetary system in place, as a failure to pass the budget for a new fiscal year only results in a reenacted budget. But the problems associated with a reenacted budget abound. There’s the delayed implementation of new programs and projects. This, as a reenacted budget only allows for the funding of existing programs and projects. A reenacted budget also limits government flexibility to respond to changing needs. For example, if the economy experiences a downturn, the government may need to increase spending on social programs or infrastructure projects. However, this is not possible under a reenacted budget. But probably the biggest risk associated with a reenacted budget would be corruption, as it can give the executive branch more leeway or elbow room to fund projects while reallocating “savings” from projects that had been funded previously. In the shadow of budgetary bludgeoning and political brinkmanship, the recent passage of the US funding bill left Ukraine’s defense hanging by a thread, a stark reminder of the capriciousness of budgeting processes in both the United States and the Philippines, where legislative complexities often take precedence over strategic imperatives. The budget’s power to shape policy and dictate priorities, as seen in the Philippines with past reenacted budgets, illustrates the pitfalls of wielding fiscal levers as political weapons. In both nations, the budgeting process, while designed to reflect the will of the people, is susceptible to political posturing, causing disruptions and imperiling the very ideals of democracy it should be upholding. The post Budgetary leverage appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Brazil opens first ‘ExpoCannabis’ amid pot debate
Bubbling with euphoria as thick as the haze in the air, marijuana enthusiasts flocked this weekend to Brazil's first "ExpoCannabis," amid a national debate over decriminalizing the drug for personal use. Launched in Uruguay a decade ago, the huge marijuana fair opened its first international edition Friday in Sao Paulo, complete with DJs, guest speakers, myriad pot products and a large outdoor space packed with hundreds of visitors, nearly all of them smoking up. Organizers said they expected 20,000 people to attend the three-day event, which aims to showcase cannabis in its many uses, and not just recreational and medicinal. "We want to show the public all the plant's capabilities. We're not just talking about the pharmaceutical industry. The plant can also work in the food and beverage industry, the construction industry, the textile industry and biofuels," organizer Larissa Uchida told AFP. "It's a plant that has been demonized for many years, so there needs to be a whole deconstruction of this idea." Uchida said the event respected Brazilian legislation, with vendors selling cannabis accessories, extracts and derivatives -- but not the actual drug. Those smoking it at the fair likely purchased it illegally, but authorities appeared willing to turn a blind eye. Brazil’s 2006 drug law imposes prison terms for drug trafficking, and lighter penalties such as community service for possession, but has faced criticism for a lack of clarity over the line between the two. - Landmark court case - ExpoCannabis got its start in Uruguay in 2013, the same year the small South American country became the first in the world to fully legalize the regulated production and sale of recreational marijuana. The event in neighboring Brazil comes as the Latin American economic powerhouse re-evaluates its own prohibitionist drug laws. Brazil's Supreme Court is currently hearing a case that could decriminalize small-scale possession and use of cannabis and certain other drugs in the nation of 203 million people. Five of the court's 11 justices have so far ruled for decriminalizing marijuana for personal use, just one vote short of the majority needed. Ruling to decriminalize in August, Justice Alexandre de Moraes condemned existing anti-narcotics laws, which he said principally penalized "young people, especially uneducated Blacks, who are treated as drug traffickers for possessing small quantities." However, in a sign of how controversial the subject remains, Senate president Rodrigo Pacheco announced plans Thursday to introduce legislation to amend the constitution to explicitly make the possession of any amount of cannabis a crime. - Budding mega-industry - "I think it's very important to have the first edition (of ExpoCannabis) in Brazil right now," Sao Paulo state legislator Caio Franca told AFP at the fair. "We're at a very opportune moment for a conversation on cannabis-based medicines and recreational use, both from a legislative point of view and also in the courts," said Franca, who has introduced a bill to include medical marijuana in the Sao Paulo public health system. Marijuana for medical use also remains a touchy subject in Brazil. Patients have had to go to court to win the right to use the active ingredient cannabidiol, or CBD, for treatment of conditions such as epilepsy. Gabriel Vieira, an exhibitor at the fair, called for Brazil to join the growing number of countries that have partially or fully legalized cannabis. "We have to see the truth: there are a lot of people who consume it, whether it's medicinal or recreational. I think we need to follow in the footsteps of countries like Germany, the United States," said Vieira, who is 29. The economic potential of the budding global cannabis industry -- valued at $43.7 billion last year, and projected to grow to more than 10 times that by 2030 -- was on full display at the fair. Visitor Luciano Narita, 40, grinned as he showed off his haul of products. "I came here looking for new products, like this chocolate I bought, pipes, leaves," he said with a smile. "I like it for recreational use." fg-jhb/bbk/tjj © Agence France-Presse The post Brazil opens first ‘ExpoCannabis’ amid pot debate appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pag-IBIG sets record anew as home loans reach P76.94-B in Jan-Aug, up 6%
Pag-IBIG Fund has released P76.94 billion in home loans in the last eight months, breaking its record on the highest home loan disbursement for any January to August period, agency officials announced on Friday, 15 September. “We are happy to report that Pag-IBIG Fund has once again set a record high in terms of home loan releases during the first eight months of the year. The sustained growth of our home loans means that more and more Filipino workers are being helped by the Pag-IBIG Fund to have homes they can call their own. This is one of our ways to heed the call of President Marcos to provide sustainable and inclusive housing for Filipinos,” said Secretary Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar, who heads the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees. Acuzar added that the amount of home loans released by the agency during the period is P4.23 billion or 6 percent higher compared to the P72.71 billion released during the same period in 2022, and financed 59,840 homes of Pag-IBIG Fund members. He further noted that out of this total number, 7,450 or 12 percent are members from the minimum-wage and low-income sectors, who were able to secure a total of P3.15 billion in socialized home loans. Meanwhile, Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta noted that the agency expects to sustain its performance for the remainder of the year, mainly driven by the agency’s move to lower its home loan rates last July. “We thank our members for choosing and trusting the Pag-IBIG Housing Loan to help them achieve their dream of homeownership. We assure our borrowers that we shall do all that we can to maintain the low rates of their loans and keep their monthly payments affordable. This is because we at Pag-IBIG Fund highly value sustainability, so that our current borrowers can maintain their ability to pay their loans and allow even more members to avail of our home financing programs. With four months to go before we end the year, we are optimistic that we shall once again set a banner year in the home loan front, and thus empower more Filipinos to become homeowners,” Acosta said. The post Pag-IBIG sets record anew as home loans reach P76.94-B in Jan-Aug, up 6% appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
T-bill rates down across the board
Rates for the government’s short-term securities dropped across the board as they tracked secondary market movements after inflation picked up anew......»»
Bohol beneficiaries receive ‘happy homes’
In a gesture of compassion and community spirit, elderly Commissioners and Faith Corps from Tzu Chi Manila flew to Bohol on 18 August 2023 to help transform the lives of three beneficiaries of the “Happy Home” project in Bohol. This charitable initiative aimed to provide hope and stability to those who had their homes severely battered by typhoon “Odette” in December 2021. The volunteers set off from Tagbilaran City to Sagbayan to turn over new homes to their owners. [caption id="attachment_182279" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] The ‘Happy Home‘ turnover coincided with Gleceria Celades’ birthday, making it a double celebration for the 87-year-old recipient.[/caption] Fernando Navarez, 62, a bachelor from Katipunan, Sagbayan Bohol, faced paralysis and speech impairment when he suffered a stroke in 2012. After typhoon “Odette” destroyed his home, he tried to rebuild a shanty for his shelter located on top of a slope, while barangay officials supported him through monthly food rations. Upon learning of Tzu Chi Bohol’s “Happy Home” project, one of his neighbors sought help for him to have a liveable home. Navarez was most grateful for the home he received from the charity organization. Gleceria Celades, 87, from Canmaya Diot in Sagbayan, lived alone in home built from salvaged materials that was then destroyed by typhoon “Odette.” The “Happy Home” turnover coincided with her birthday, making it a meaningful double celebration for Celades, who said the moment was a turning point in her life. Finally, 64-year-old Felipa Gonzaga, a resident of San Roque in Sagbayan, turned to Tzu Chi Bohol for assistance following the devastating aftermath of “Odette.” Felipa and her family found refuge in their daughter's dwelling nearby, living off mainly on the senior citizen pension of Felipa and her husband. [caption id="attachment_182295" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Felipa Gonzaga (left), 64, and her family can now rebuild anew in their new home.[/caption] But with the help of Tzu Chi, now she can rebuild anew and restore the safety and stability of her family's abode. The post Bohol beneficiaries receive ‘happy homes’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Egypt inflation hits record high of nearly 40%
Annual inflation in Egypt hit 39.7 percent in August, official figures showed Sunday, an all-time high for the country as it grapples with a punishing economic crisis. It comes immediately after the previous record of 38.2 percent was recorded in July, and over a year into an unrelenting economic crisis that has seen the currency shed half its value against the US dollar since early last year. Food and drink prices alone registered a 71.9 percent increase compared to August 2022, state statistics agency CAPMAS announced on Sunday, adding to the burden of families who have been struggling to make ends meet. The economic crisis in the import-dependent country was catalyzed by Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year, which destabilized crucial food supplies and unsettled global markets. Investors pulled billions out of Cairo's foreign reserves, which remain buoyed by deposits from wealthy Gulf allies whose promises to purchase Egyptian state assets have fallen short of government targets. Even before the current crisis, 30 percent of Egyptians were living below the poverty line, according to the World Bank, with another 30 percent vulnerable to falling into poverty. Egypt, the Arab world's most populous country, has been dependent on bailouts in recent years, from both Gulf allies and the International Monetary Fund. Last year, the IMF approved a $3 billion loan for Egypt conditioned on "a permanent shift to a flexible exchange rate regime". The country's external debt bill has tripled over the past decade, rising to a record high of $165.4 billion this year, according to Ministry of Planning figures. The post Egypt inflation hits record high of nearly 40% appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
House to stabilize prices of rice, onions
The House of Representatives has vowed to mobilize efforts to lower the prices of rice and onions in light of the recent reports that the commodities are subject anew to hoarding and price manipulation. Driven by a high satisfaction rating from a recent poll, House Speaker Martin Romualdez said on Sunday that "the House would remain focused on stabilizing the prices of rice, onions, and other staples" to assist Filipinos, particularly retailers, small traders, and market stallholders, who were at receiving ends of the soaring prices of the said commodities. "Needless to say, if there is enough supply, we would not be having problems with prices," Romualez said. Previously, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. imposed a rice price ceiling via Executive Order 39, which sets the price of regularly milled rice to P41 while P45 for well-milled rice. The price cap took effect on 5 September. Marcos imposed the directive to ensure a reasonable price of rice amid the current surge in its retail prices in the Philippines, "which resulted in a considerable economic strain on Filipinos, particularly the underprivileged and marginalized." Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga, chairperson of the House committee on agriculture and food, said the President's move of imposing a price cap on rice, complemented by a series of warehouse inspections on suspected rice hoarders by authorities along with members of the House has contributed to the stabilization of rice despite uncertainties prevailing in the global market. Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, an economist and chairman of the House committee on ways and means, meanwhile, believes that the EO 39 ended the price spike of the staple grain in the Philippine market. "It is now clear that soaring cost of the grain is artificial, driven by market speculation and rice traders driven by greed. Now, we have to manage our rice inventory better to avoid fueling the speculation here and in the global rice market," Salceda stressed. According to Salceda, Marcos' intervention and Congress' assistance are a "testament to their ability" to navigate complex economic terrains as the global market shifted following the imposition of EO 39. "It highlights the Philippines' capacity to influence and contribute positively to international food markets," Salceda pointed out. The Department of Agriculture, headed by Marcos himself, earlier denied reports of a rice shortage in the country even as the price of the staple grain ranged from P42 to P60 per kilo, way higher than the government's "aspiration" of P20 per kilo. In light of the woes linked to the staple grain, Agri Partylist Rep. Wilbert Lee filed House Bill 9020, or the proposed "Cheaper Rice Act," to help alleviate the financial strain on consumers while making rice production profitable for 2.6 million rice farmers through a subsidy program. Under the bill, the DA, in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry and other relevant government agencies, will establish a subsidy program to incentivize rice farmers to augment their production by enabling them to sell palay at a higher price. The post House to stabilize prices of rice, onions appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BSP ready to raise rates to tame price pressures
Monetary authorities are prepared to raise interest rates, as necessary, to prevent further broadening of price pressures as inflation quickened anew in August, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas......»»
Meta, Google balk as Canada spells out new online news law
Ottawa on Friday spelled out how a new law requiring digital giants to pay publishers for news content will work in practice, including how much it could cost Meta and Google. The bill aims to support a struggling Canadian news sector that has seen a flight of advertising dollars and hundreds of publications closed in the last decade. Effectively it targets only Google and Meta -- which control about 80 percent of all online advertising revenues in Canada. The government estimated it could cost the two companies a combined Can$230 million (US$170 million) by requiring them to make fair commercial deals with Canadian outlets for the news and information that is shared on their platforms or face binding arbitration. According to the draft regulations published on Friday, the measures would apply to companies with global annual revenues in excess of Can$1 billion, operating a search engine or social media platform actively used by at least 20 million Canadians and that distributes news. Meta reacted by calling the bill "fundamentally flawed" and vowed to continue blocking access in Canada to news articles on its Facebook and Instagram platforms. It started doing this on August 1. Google, which has also voiced opposition to the Online News Act, said it would "carefully study the proposed regulations to assess whether they address (its) major structural challenges." Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge noted that Canadians have come to rely on digital platforms for news and information. "These tech platforms have to act responsibly and support the news sharing they and Canadians both benefit from," she said. "Tech giants can and must contribute their fair share —- nothing more." The post Meta, Google balk as Canada spells out new online news law appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Davao de Oro flood victims get Go aid
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s team extended assistance to residents recovering from recent flooding in Pantukan, Davao de Oro on Wednesday, 30 August. In a video message, Go acknowledged local officials, including Governor Dodot Gonzaga, Vice Governor Tyron Uy, and Mayor Leonel Ceniza, for their prompt response to the needs of the affected families. Go’s team distributed masks, shirts, and vitamins for 649 flood victims present at Barangay Napnapan covered court. They also gave away shoes, mobile phones, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball. The Department of Social Welfare and Development also extended financial assistance through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program. Congressman Ruwel Gonzaga, Board Member Ruwina Gonzaga, and former governor Arturo Uy were present during the event. Go stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive and coordinated disaster management approach. He highlighted the importance of Senate Bill 188, which proposes the establishment of the Department of Disaster Resilience. SBN 188 aims to consolidate all disaster-related agencies and functions into a single entity to streamline efforts and enhance disaster response efficiency. By elevating DDR to a Cabinet secretary-level department, the government can better allocate resources, develop improved disaster risk reduction strategies, and promptly aid affected communities, especially those from vulnerable sectors, cited Go. The post Davao de Oro flood victims get Go aid appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Davao de Oro flood victims receive aid from Bong Go
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s team extended assistance to residents recovering from recent flooding in Pantukan, Davao de Oro on Wednesday, 30 August. In a video message, Go acknowledged local officials, including Governor Dodot Gonzaga, Vice Governor Tyron Uy, and Mayor Leonel Ceniza, for their prompt response to the needs of the affected families. Go's team distributed masks, shirts, and vitamins to 649 flood victims present at Barangay Napnapan covered court. They also gave away shoes, mobile phones, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also extended financial assistance through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program. Congressman Ruwel Gonzaga, Board Member Ruwina Gonzaga, and former governor Arturo Uy were present during the event. “Alam ko pong mahirap ang panahon ngayon pero magtiwala lang ho kayo sa gobyerno. Kayo po ang nagbibigay ng lakas sa amin upang makapagserbisyo pa po sa abot ng aming makakaya para malampasan natin ang krisis at sana po’y makabalik na tayo sa ating normal na pamumuhay,” said Go. Go also stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive and coordinated disaster management approach. He highlighted the importance of Senate Bill No. 188, which proposes the establishment of the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR). SBN 188 aims to consolidate all disaster-related agencies and functions into a single entity to streamline efforts and enhance disaster response efficiency. By elevating DDR to a Cabinet secretary-level department, the government can better allocate resources, develop improved disaster risk reduction strategies, and promptly aid affected communities, especially those from vulnerable sectors, cited Go. “Dapat na may nakatutok talaga na may awtoridad at malinaw na mandato. Hindi na puwedeng laging task force na lang dahil temporary lang ito at nawawala ang continuity kapag nagpalit na ng administrasyon. Mahirap din kung mananatiling coordinating council lang ang mamamahala sa ganitong sitwasyon dahil sa kakulangan ng kapangyarihan nito,” Go earlier explained. “Dapat ay departamento sana na may Cabinet-level na kalihim na in-charge para may kapangyarihan at kakayahang i-mobilize ang buong gobyerno kapag kinakailangan. Magkakaroon siya ng personalidad na diretsong isasangguni sa ibang departamento ang pangangailangan ng mga taong apektado ng krisis,” he added. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of prioritizing health for the residents. He encouraged them to avail of medical assistance through the Malasakit Centers, conveniently located at Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital branches in Laak, Montevista, Maragusan, and Pantukan, as well as the Davao Regional Medical Center in nearby Tagum City. Initiated by Go in 2018, the Malasakit Centers serve as one-stop shops, bringing together multiple government agencies such as DSWD, Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to ensure medical assistance programs are accessible by indigent Filipinos. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463, commonly known as the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. The program has demonstrated its effectiveness nationwide, benefiting over seven million Filipinos, as reported by DOH. Go also highlighted the role of Super Health Centers in making quality healthcare services accessible to all Filipinos, especially those living in remote and underserved areas. Go also stressed that no Filipino should be left behind when it comes to receiving proper medical attention and treatment. In 2022, the Super Health Centers in Davao de Oro commenced construction in Montevista, Nabunturan, and Mawab. This year, there will be two centers in the town, and one each in Monkayo and Compostela. “Ang kagandahan nito early detection at magagamit ito sa pagkokonsulta and it will help decongest the hospital dahil pwede na pong gamutin dito. At ilalagay po ito sa mga strategic areas. Ilalagay nila sa isang barangay kung saan po’y makaka-access ‘yung mga kababayan natin, hindi na nila kailangan pang magbiyahe pa sa Poblacion, hindi na nila kailangang magbiyahe pa sa provincial hospital. Pwede na pong gamutin dito, early detection mas maganda po ‘yon para hindi na lumala ang sakit ng mga pasyente,” Go said. He also underscored the importance of bringing specialized medical services closer to communities by establishing dedicated specialty centers in regional hospitals under the DOH. Go is the principal sponsor and one of the authors of RA 11959 or the Regional Specialty Centers Act. The newly enacted law includes provisions for the establishment of specialty centers within existing government-controlled corporations or specialty hospitals. It also outlines the specific service capabilities that DOH will implement in regional hospitals. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has actively supported various infrastructure projects in Davao de Oro. His contributions include the construction of a multipurpose building in Compostela; construction of the Monkayo, Compostela Valley-Veruela Road; and improvement of the public market in Monkayo. Other major initiatives he supported include the construction of the Nabunturan-Maco and Nabunturan-Laak roads; the installation of street lights in Nabunturan; the rehabilitation of the local roads and bridges in New Bataan; and the concreting of the local access road in Pantukan. The post Davao de Oro flood victims receive aid from Bong Go appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
China’s 10-dash line flaunts ‘arbitrariness’, expert says
China is flaunting anew an “arbitrariness” by releasing its 2023 version of the map, which features a new 10-dash line that defines its purported boundaries in the South China Sea, according to Maritime law expert Professor Jay Batongbacal. “This is already the second time because the first time was in 2013. Based on some reports, it seems that they are introducing a new drawing. It may be small but other countries are already reacting like India and this time, Malaysia has already reacted,” Batongbacal said in a chance interview Thursday evening. China's Ministry of Natural Resources on 28 August issued the map, which covers a large part of the South China Sea, including the country’s exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea. “Una pinapakita nito yung arbitrariness nung kanilang claim kasi nga nagbabago. Pangalawa, pinapakita rin nito na talagang walang basehan ‘yung kanilang dinodrawing na iyan. Talagang yung mga ibang bansa talagang hindi yan tatanggapin (First, it shows the arbitrariness of their claim because it changes. Second, it also shows that what they are claiming is really baseless. The other countries really can’t accept that.)" Malaysia, Taiwan, and the Philippines have earlier rejected China’s claims under the new version of its SCS map, showing that Taiwan as well as India's northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin region are part of Beijing's domain. Batongbacal said there’s a lot of misinterpretation and manipulation of information regarding China’s claims in the SCS, which overlaps the claims of its neighboring countries. “The Chinese government keeps pushing these narratives that are not really true. The problem is that this information is being reported as if it's true,” he said. Thus, Batongbacal pressed the need for the media outlets, particularly those assigned in the Philippines, to better understand the issues on SCS/WPS. “It is also very important to us because we are a democratic nation and the media plays a very important role in the molding and expression of the public opinion so the media needs to be well-informed, especially in our advocacy in the WPS. This is about our nation,” he said. China’s uncertainties, lack of stability Batongbacal said the Philippines keeps insisting that China should follow the rules-based international order and an international law referred to as “The Law of the Sea Convention.” “China should follow the rules that when we all negotiated—the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea—and China itself supposedly ratified that agreement. It shows that even though China signed treaties, conventions, and agreements. yet anytime if it finds it inconvenient in its interest, it can ignore it,” he added. Batongbacal said such action from China shows a “lack of stability and uncertainties.” “And for countries like us, smaller, less powerful and can’t match—let’s say—large countries like China, if that’s our system in the world, then we will not have our independence or sovereignty—if like that. We will just fall into whatever other countries want of us whenever they want, right?,” he said. In the case of the WPS, Batongbacal further explained that China seems pushing for its own “wants and composition” despite signing agreements and international laws. “It keeps ignoring it and insists itself with the other countries. We really need to push back on it and we should stand international law. We should insist that China should follow the agreement and the international law,” he said. He, meanwhile, noted that the legal position of the Philippines was put on record through a series of diplomatic protests. “With it, no one can tell that we are accepting China's claims. It is very clear that we always oppose China that their activities are wrong and it will never be that such behavior would be acceptable in the international law,” he said. Batongbacal underscored the Philippines' need to stand up for legal rights and entitlement in the international community. Senator Risa Hontiveros earlier described China as “delusional and desperate” after issuing the new 2023 version of its 10-dash line map, claiming part of the WPS as theirs. “China is delusional. Wala na sa huwisyo itong Tsina. Kung ano-ano nalang ang ginagawa para mang-angkin ng mga teritoryong hindi naman sa kanya (China is our of its mind. It keeps on inventing to grab what is not theirs) This map is Beijing’s desperate attempt to assert its lies and propaganda,” she said. Hontiveros added that the Department of Foreign Affairs should also coordinate with the National Resource and Mapping Authority) to update a map that clearly shows the country’s exclusive economic zone, continental shelves, and territorial seas in the WPS. The post China’s 10-dash line flaunts ‘arbitrariness’, expert says appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New OTOP Law to promote MSMEs towards economic recovery, says Bong Go
Senator Bong Go hailed the recent signing of Republic Act No. 11960, or the One Town, One Product Philippines Act, into law by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. on 24 August, as a crucial step towards economic recovery. "The OTOP law decentralizes opportunities, giving each town and province the chance to shine with their unique products," Go said as he emphasized the law's potential to redistribute economic power from the capital to the provinces and other regions. Go, who authored and co-sponsored the OTOP law, considers it more than a mere stimulus package for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. He views it as a socio-economic reform that can bridge the urban-rural divide. The senator also highlighted the role of the OTOP Program in fostering community-led innovation. While the law is designed to assist in various areas such as quality improvement and marketability of local products, Go pointed out its potential as a tool for social cohesion. Go underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in the success of the OTOP Program. Furthermore, in the context of economic recovery, Go sees the OTOP Law as a lifeline for those who have lost their jobs or faced reduced work hours. Go thanked the President for his support and expressed his optimism about the law's long-term impact. "With this law, we are reinventing our economic landscape towards a more inclusive and equitable Philippines," he concluded. Earlier, Go also co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 2021, which aims to institutionalize the Shared Service Facilities project under the Department of Trade and Industry. The proposed measure seeks to amend Republic Act No. 6977 or the Magna Carta for Small Enterprises as amended by RA 9501, otherwise known as the Magna Carta for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. If enacted, the SSF program would offer more cost-effective solutions to MSMEs by providing access to shared facilities and services that will help them improve the quality and productivity of their products, including equipment, tools, and machinery that they can use to upgrade their production processes that are typically expensive for individual MSMEs. The post New OTOP Law to promote MSMEs towards economic recovery, says Bong Go appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BCDA welcomes amended charter
State-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority, or BCDA, welcomed the approval of House Bill 8505, citing the impact of the measure in the development of the economic zones managed by the state-run firm, and in beefing up the state coffers to support the military’s pension fund. Approved on third and final reading last 22 August, House Bill 8505 is a consolidated substitute bill of Pampanga Representatives Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales that seeks to amend Republic Act 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992. The bill ensures the continuity of the BCDA’s function as a builder of great cities and a prime mover of national development, while also helping the state-run firm conquer legislative hurdles that could restrict the full development of its properties, from Fort Bonifacio in Metro Manila to Poro Point in La Union. “Our economic landscape is evolving at a tremendous pace, thus the need for BCDA to take big, bold moves to adapt with these changes and deliver the socioeconomic transformation we envision for our development areas in Clark,” BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua Bigcang said. “The bill will address gaps in the current charter and we couldn’t be more happy to express our gratitude to our friends in the House of Representatives for passing this bill on third and final reading,” Bingcang added. Under the proposed bill, the BCDA’s corporate term will be extended for another 50 years from its current remaining corporate life of 19 years. This extension will increase the confidence of investors when transacting with BCDA, as well as allow BCDA to continue its support to the AFP Modernization Program. Bill to raise capital to P400B The bill will also increase the authorized capital of the BCDA to P400 billion from P100 billion. Lastly, the bill seeks to convert five percent of BCDA’s economic zones to freehold status from leasehold, authorizing the BCDA to sell these properties for residential purposes. At present, lands within BCDA economic zones are only available on leaseholds, preventing the entry of affordable housing developers. Converting portions of the ecozones to freehold will liberalize the residential market for an average Filipino and allow full ownership of the property. “Once this is implemented, workers within our economic zones will be able to have their own homes, be closer to their jobs and live comfortably with their families,” Bingcang said. The BCDA estimates that this provision will free up 1,856 hectares of land, which can potentially generate P451.26 billion up to P1.45 trillion in revenues. This revenue may be earmarked for the military pension fund, a priority of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. The post BCDA welcomes amended charter appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»