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Remove the roadblocks on right of way acquisition
In recent years, the government has committed to make game-changing reforms in order to make the Philippines more attractive as an investment destination......»»
Remove the roadblocks on right of way acquisition
In recent years, the government has committed to make game-changing reforms in order to make the Philippines more attractive as an investment destination......»»
Extreme Heat as a ‘New Pandemic’: Thousands in PH Cancel Classes During ‘Hottest Year’
(Part 1 of 2) CEBU CITY, Philippines — The decades-old Gabaldon building of Leyte National High School in Tacloban City has narrow hallways, high and dark ceilings, and overcrowded classrooms. On hot and humid days, the rooms can feel stuffy and suffocating, prompting students like Dwight Lebrea, a 17-year-old Grade 12 student, to find ways.....»»
Diffusing tension
In his 2024 State of the Union Address, President Joseph Biden doubled down on his rhetoric against China as he boasted revitalized partnerships in the Pacific. He rattled off India, Australia, Japan, South Korea and the Pacific Islands. He said the United States is standing up against China’s economic practices while standing up for peace across the Taiwan Strait......»»
DSWD: Poor families to get El Niño aid
The Department of Social Welfare and Development has given assurance that it is committed to assisting and protecting the poor and most vulnerable communities from the impact of El Niño......»»
CEB, UFG vow OFWs support
Cebu Pacific on Saturday, 28 October 2023 announced that it has entered into a partnership with United Filipino Global, a non-government organisation that helps Filipino migrant workers, to collaborate on projects aimed at improving the welfare of overseas filipino workers. CEB and UFG on 27 October 2023 signed a memorandum of understanding indicating the provision of free flights for chosen OFW beneficiaries and support for OFW kids’ scholarships. In the event of natural disasters, emergencies, or life-threatening circumstances, the airline will also organise special flights to deliver humanitarian aid and transport to affected OFWs. In addition, CEB will organize informational campaigns to update OFWs on safe and responsible air travel procedures. Internship programs The airline will also provide financial assistance to OFW families so they may be able to send their kids to internship programs for to become future flight attendants and crew members. CEB chief marketing and customer experience officer Candice Iyog said that Cebu Pacific looks forward to this partnership with UFG with the objective of assisting OFWs. The partnership of CEB with UFG is a testament to the airline’s commitment to uplifting the lives of OFWs by connecting them to a wide international network and offering the quickest way back to the Philippines. UFG president Gemma Sotto said that with this collaboration, they are “praying” that their upcoming programs will be felt and received. CEB has already mounted several flights in recent years to provide free transport to distressed OFWs back to the Philippines. In 2021 alone, CEB repatriated over 11,000 Filipinos from Dubai and the Middle East affected by Covid-19 lockdowns through a series of Bayanihan flights. The airline currently flies to 35 domestic and 25 international destinations spanning across Asia, Australia and the Middle East. The post CEB, UFG vow OFWs support appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aussie PM condemns Hamas
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas during his meeting with United States President Joe Biden at the White House on Wednesday. “Australia unequivocally condemns the terrorism of Hamas,” Albanese said in a speech. Australia’s leader at the same time condoled with all Israeli victims of Hamas’ attack on 7 October and Palestinians in Gaza Strip suffering from Israel’s war with the terrorist group. “We grieve for the loss of every innocent life, whether that be Israeli or Palestinian,” he said. Albanese said his government will provide an additional $15 million in humanitarian assistance for civilians in Gaza. Australia already committed to give $10 million to Palestinians and deliver lifesaving assistance such as emergency water and medical services. Albanese also declared that Australia stands with Ukraine in its war with Russia and mentioned Canberra’s additional military aid to Kyiv to help it regain territories annexed by Moscow. The two leaders’ meeting underscored the countries’century-old alliance and unity in confronting an increasingly assertive China in theAsia-Pacific region. The post Aussie PM condemns Hamas appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Myanmar nationals ask Philippines to probe alleged war crimes
Five Myanmar nationals asked the Philippines on Wednesday to investigate alleged war crimes committed by 10 serving or former members of Myanmar's military against the mainly Christian Chin minority. Filipino lawyers representing the Myanmar nationals told reporters they lodged the "landmark" criminal complaint against junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and nine others at the Department of Justice in Manila. They asked prosecutors to open an investigation into alleged war crimes under a Philippine law penalising "crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide, and other crimes against humanity". The five Myanmar nationals are from western Chin state, but now live in Australia, Britain, Canada and India. They were at the justice department in Manila. "This is a landmark suit because this is the very first time that such a case is being brought before the Philippines," Romel Bagares, one of the lawyers, told reporters. Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla said his department would "evaluate" the complaint, which he described as "very novel". "If this is sufficient in form and substance, that's the time when we will require the respondents to answer these complaints," Remulla told reporters. Among the accused is Chin Chief Minister Vung Suan Thang, who is a former military officer. The others are serving members of the military. The complaint alleged that members of Myanmar's military killed a pastor and two church elders in Thantlang town, Chin, in September 2021. It also accused the 10 of "intentionally" directing attacks on churches and the burning of hundreds of houses in the same town between August 2021 and June 2022. They also allegedly blocked relief supplies from reaching people in Chin state in the aftermath of Cyclone Mocha in May. 'Truly historic day' Philippine law allows for the prosecution of war crimes committed elsewhere. One of the stipulations of the law is that the accused must be present in the Philippines. According to Gilbert Andres, another Filipino lawyer representing the Myanmar nationals, if the Philippine justice department were to decide to mount a case against the 10 accused, it could issue subpoenas to Myanmar's Central Authority or go through diplomatic channels. The toppling of Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in a 2021 coup sparked a huge backlash and the military junta is now battling opponents across swaths of Myanmar. Some of the bloodiest fighting has been happening in Christian-majority areas, including in Chin state. "This is a truly historic day," Salai Ling, one of the five complainants and also of the Chin Human Rights Organization, told reporters in Manila. "We are really hoping that with the solidarity and support from the Filipino people and people in the ASEAN region, that we will be able to get some form of justice for the atrocities that our people suffered." Myanmar and the Philippines belong to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The regional bloc's efforts to defuse the Myanmar crisis have been fruitless so far. The Philippines is now the subject of an international human rights probe, with the Hague-based International Criminal Court investigating "possible crimes against humanity" during former president Rodrigo Duterte's deadly drugs crackdown. In July, President Ferdinand Marcos said the Philippines was "done talking with the ICC" but would continue to question the tribunal's jurisdiction. The post Myanmar nationals ask Philippines to probe alleged war crimes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Serpent’s forked tongue
The terrorist organization Hamas, through more than two weeks of conflict, proved that deception is among its expertise, as it led many to believe that it is fighting for freedom and is not sowing mayhem. Its Charter, however, has the elimination of all Jews through a holy war or jihad as one of its objectives. Even after dominating the Palestinian Parliament, Hamas is classified as a terror organization by Canada, New Zealand, Israel, Egypt, Japan, the European Union, Australia, Jordan and the United States. A bit late, the country, nonetheless, seeks the designation of Hamas as a terrorist group under Philippine laws. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said the tagging of the terror group will be a priority agenda of the Anti-Terrorism Council after the savage 7 October surprise attack on Israel. The assault on peaceful civilian communities was not the first atrocity committed by the group. Israel Defense Forces, or IDF, data showed countless bloodletting attributed to Hamas. The group was responsible for the Haifa bus suicide bombing on 5 March 2003, which killed 17 people. On 12 June 2014, Hamas terrorists kidnapped and later murdered three Israeli teenagers, for which Operation Brother’s Keeper and Operation Protective Edge were launched. Since Hamas’ control of the Gaza Strip, it has used civilian facilities as training grounds for its terror campaign or as cover for its lairs. IDF discovered that Hamas converted a five-story building, originally meant to be used as a national library and provides offices for government services and housing, into a terror training facility. The building had a tunnel dug underneath it for underground warfare training. The IDF struck it following Hamas’ firing of several rockets at Israel. Other Hamas military infrastructure was put up near neighborhoods, including next to schools and mosques. IDF said Hamas solicits funds from international financiers supposedly to uplift the lives of Palestinians but misuses these to buy arms and other activities in support of their terror campaign. Such investments based on IDF investigations included over $120 million since 2014 in materials to build terror tunnels leading into Israel. The indiscriminate firing of rockets at Israel, Hamas, and its allies usually hits civilian facilities in Gaza, such as the cause of the deadly explosion at the Gaza hospital that killed scores of people. “Hamas operatives don’t aim at precise targets, they simply fire rockets and don’t care if it harms their people,” according to IDF. Hamas came to power through an election, which is now believed it merely exploited to rule the Gaza Strip through terror. In January 2006, after Israel disengaged from the Gaza Strip, removing all communities and military installations, Hamas took part in the Palestinian Parliamentary Elections and won a majority of 76 seats, making it the ruling power. After a failed attempt to merge with its rival political party, Fatah, which lost the initial elections against Hamas, violence between both parties escalated into a bloody fight. IDF said people were thrown off rooftops, and public executions occurred in the bitter political rivalry. Since March 2018, Hamas has instigated riots, which it paints as peaceful and widespread protests. “Infiltration attempts and the use of arson kites and firebombs have taken place during the riots. Since the Gaza Strip is half a mile away from Israeli communities, infiltration would endanger Israeli civilians,” the IDF said. Hamas intended to use Gaza civilians as human shields and covers for infiltration attempts and terror. IDF said the world should know the true character of Hamas to understand the constant terror inflicted on Israel and the poor state of the Gaza Strip under its helm. Let the world not fall to the temptation and seduction of evil. The post Serpent’s forked tongue appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
GCash expands in Singapore
GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app, doubles down on its presence in Singapore as it can now be used as a cashless payment option in both Alipay+ and Alipay China-enabled merchants. This further expands GCash’s availability in one of the most famous destinations in Southeast Asia. It has already been accepted by Alipay+ merchants in 2022, but now GCash can also be used to pay in select AlipayCN establishments. Some of these merchants include 7-Eleven, which has the largest convenience store network in the country at 450 branches; the largest orange juice vending machine operator, iJooz; the exclusive distributor of duty-free cosmetic products, The Shilla Duty-Free; and the largest taxi operator, ComfortDelGro taxis. “GCash is committed to always being there for our millions of users wherever they are here in the Philippines and all over the world. Thanks to our global partner Alipay+, GCash users can now go cashless in thousands more touchpoints in Singapore,” said Ren-Ren Reyes, president and CEO of GCash mobile wallet operator, G-Xchange. Aside from expanding its touchpoints, GCash is also making it rewarding for users to go cashless in Singapore. When they use GCash to pay in 7-Eleven, iJooz, and hawkers like Lau Pa Sat they can get P85 off from their purchase. Likewise, users can enjoy up to P400 off at ComfortDelGro taxi rides and their shopping at The Shilla Duty-Free stores. To claim these vouchers, head on over to the GCash app and tap the “A+ Rewards” button. In the dropdown button, select Singapore and scroll down to select a voucher to purchase. When paying for your purchases at these destinations, be sure to look for the Alipay+ or AlipayCN logo at the checkout. Open your GCash app and select the QR or PayQR button at the bottom of the screen. Scan the merchant’s QR code, or tap “Pay Abroad with Alipay+ or AlipayCN” to have the merchant scan your generated QR. Then, check the amount and click “Pay” to see the receipt. GCash is continuously expanding its international footprint in partnership with Alipay+. Aside from Singapore, the Philippine e-wallet can be used to pay in select Alipay+-enabled merchants across Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Qatar, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy. “Our users can expect GCash to further expand its global reach as we partner with more merchants in more countries,” Reyes said. The Philippine finance super app is also making its services available to more Filipinos who live abroad as the GCash app can now be used with international numbers in the US, UK, Canada, Japan, Italy and Australia. The post GCash expands in Singapore appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Japan will continue transparency about ALPS treated water release
The Daily Tribune recently published the opinion entitled “Releasing Fukushima water amid protests?” by Mr. Bernie V. Lopez, which worsens the misperception of Japan’s discharge plan. Therefore, I would like to provide explanations based on scientific evidence and facts as well as Japan’s efforts to take the measure in the most accountable and transparent manner. First of all, the water to be discharged is NOT “nuclear wastewater”.” It is “ALPS (advanced liquid processing system) treated water,” which has been sufficiently purified until the concentration of radioactive materials other than tritium is below the regulatory standard and then is further diluted before it is discharged. Tritium is a radioactive material that exists in nature, and can be found in rainwater and also in our bodies, but does not accumulate in the body. The reason for the discharge of ALPS-treated water is not a fear of the dangers of storing large amounts of nuclear wastewater but to restore life in Fukushima and achieve reconstruction. The Subcommittee on Handling ALPS Treated Water considered five options: geosphere injection, discharge into the sea, vapor release, hydrogen release, and underground burial. Of those methods, discharge into the sea was determined to be the best from a risk management perspective, because it has a proven track record in domestic and international nuclear facilities and is easy to monitor. Discharge of ALPS-treated water is an issue that cannot be postponed to construct new facilities to safely proceed with the decommissioning work, which will be more fully underway in the future. On 4 July 2023, The International Atomic Energy Agency or IAEA, the world’s authority on nuclear-related issues, published the Comprehensive Report on the Safety Review of the ALPS Treated Water at TEPCO’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, which presents the findings of a nearly two-year review conducted by the IAEA and independent international experts based on scientific evidence. The report states that Japan’s plans to discharge the ALPS-treated water into the sea and associated activities are consistent with relevant international safety standards, and the discharge will have a negligible radiological impact on people and the environment. On 24 August 2023, the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, or FDNPS, initiated the discharge of ALPS-treated water to promote the reconstruction of Fukushima. Since the start of the discharge, it has been confirmed that the concentration of nuclides including tritium in seawater and marine products is far below the standards, which indicates that the discharge is safe as planned. Specifically, Japan is implementing three types of monitoring (monitoring of treated water in tanks, real-time monitoring of a wide range of nuclides, mainly tritium) with the involvement of the IAEA. If a problem is detected during this monitoring process such as detecting radioactivity levels exceeding standards, appropriate measures will be taken, including immediate suspension of the discharge. In more detail, we will manage the annual discharge volume of tritium so it will not exceed 22 trillion Bq, which is equivalent to the target discharge management value for the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station before the accident. It is worth noting that other countries also discharge tritium into the sea in compliance with their domestic laws and regulations; for instance, according to the China Nuclear Energy Association website, China, discharging 112 trillion Bequerel, or Bq, from Yangjiang Nuclear Power Plant , 102 trillion Bq from Ningde NPP, 90 trillion Bq from Hongyanhe NPP in 2021. The amount of tritium in the ALPS-treated water is far smaller than the amount of tritium discharged from many nuclear power plants and other facilities in other countries. Consultations with stakeholders Furthermore, the aforementioned article states that “Japan planned the release unilaterally — no transparency, no consensus. They never made an effort for international awareness and inspection.” However, the fact is that Japan has provided information and has engaged in consultations with the interested parties including both international and domestic ones in a transparent manner based on scientific evidence, with an emphasis on providing sufficient data. In addition, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has emphasized that every possible measure would be taken to ensure the safety of discharge and that any emission that would harm the health of citizens or the marine environment would not occur. He also explained Japan’s efforts regarding the discharge of ALPS-treated water at ASEAN-related Summit Meetings in Jakarta on September 6 and 7 and the G20 New Delhi Summit on September 9 and 10, which led to a wider and deeper understanding of our approach. The positive recognition and support in the international community for Japan’s efforts and its commitments are currently spreading. Many countries including the U.S., Australia, and NZ officially welcomed the IAEA’s Comprehensive Report, and also Prime Minister of the Cook Islands, as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) acknowledged Japan’s efforts. Recently, on the margin of the Japan-ASEAN Summit Meetings, H.E. Mr. Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia expressed his understanding of Japan’s position. In addition, on the margin of the G20 New Delhi Summit, H.E. Mr. Recep Tayyip ERDOGAN, President of the Republic of Türkiye said that he is aware of Japan’s sincere efforts, and H.E. Mr. Mark RUTTE, Prime Minister and Minister of General Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands expressed his full support to Japan’s approach. Therefore, the author’s claim that Japan had “no transparency, no consensus” is inaccurate. As the author correctly stated, “Secrecy will be Japan’s enemy” and Japan has been and will prioritize our transparency. At the end of the day, all the questions should be left to scientists and experts on nuclear issues, to draw a conclusion that can stand the test of scientific evidence and facts. Having gone through unprecedented hardships since the Great East Japan Earthquake, we remain committed to facing the most difficult challenges with complete transparency in close collaboration with the IAEA. After the start of discharge into the sea, Japan will continue to conduct three types of monitoring in a multilayered manner with the involvement of the IAEA. We hope to gain the understanding and support of the international community. The government of Japan will continue to provide the necessary information transparently based on the conclusion of the comprehensive report and will continue efforts to gain further understanding from the international community, while scientifically refuting politically motivated opinions. The post Japan will continue transparency about ALPS treated water release appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Washington sanctions 25 Iranian officials
United States President Joe Biden said the country stands by Iranians as they mark the first death anniversary of Mahsa Amini, the 22-year-old Iranian Kurd who died one year ago while in the custody of morality police who detained her for dress code violation. “Iranians alone will determine the fate of their country, but the United States remains committed to standing with them — including providing tools to support Iranians’ ability to advocate for their own future,” Biden said. The president also announced that the US Treasury Department added to the sanctions blacklist 25 Iranian officials and an Internet censorship firm linked to Tehran’s suppression of protests after Amini’s death. Months of nationwide demonstrations followed her death. Also sanctioned was Gholamali Mohammadi, the head of Iran’s Prisons Organization, who the Treasury said presides over serious human rights abuses including torture and rape. Three state-controlled media groups, Press TV, Tasnim News and Fars News, were also placed on the blacklist. The sanctions were coordinated with the European Union, Britain, Canada and Australia. Targets of the United Kingdom sanctions included Iran’s Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Mohammad Mehdi Esmaili, Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani and Iranian police spokesperson Saeed Montazer Al-Mahdi. The European Union added to its own blacklist four Iranian officials — a commander in the elite Revolutionary Guard, two regional police chiefs and a prison boss. Hoping to keep pressure in place, the US House of Representatives on Wednesday passed, nearly unanimously, a bill in honor of Amini that would make it difficult to remove sanctions against top officials including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. WITH AFP The post Washington sanctions 25 Iranian officials appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Over 400 college students receive cash-for-work under ‘Tara, Basa!’
The Department of Social Welfare and Development on Friday said some 432 college student-beneficiaries of the "Tara, Basa!" Tutoring Program received cash-for-work (CFW) on Thursday, 14 September, during the first simultaneous payouts in their respective local universities and colleges in Metro Manila. College students studying at the City of Malabon University, Navotas Polytechnic College, Universidad de Manila, and Parañaque City College, who were trained to become tutors and youth development workers (YDWS), each received P4,800 as CFW. The total amount is equivalent to eight days of tutoring and conducting "nanay-tatay" module sessions, with a daily rate of P610, following the new daily minimum wage set by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Tutors and YDWs are 2nd to 4th-year college students from select state universities and colleges (SUCs) as well as local government-run universities in the NCR. They were trained to conduct reading sessions for struggling and non-reader elementary learners and "nanay-tatay" module sessions for parents and guardians of grade school beneficiaries. Arlene Joy Rosauro, one of the tutors under the "Tara, Basa!" Tutoring Program, said conducting reading sessions is fulfilling as she sees the improvement among the elementary students under her tutelage. “As a learning facilitator po, nakikita ko yung improvement ng mga estudyante, sobrang nakakatuwa kasi nakikita ko po na effective ako as a teacher. Fulfilling po siya as a future educator din (As a learning facilitator, I can see the improvement of the students. It delights me because their improvement is proof that I am effective as a teacher. It is fulfilling as a future educator)," Rosauro said. "Nakikita ko po na napakalaking bagay ang 'Tara, Basa!' sa nation-building kasi ngayon po ang pine-face po natin ay sobrang mababa po ng reading comprehension ng mga bata that is why itong step po na ito ay malaking bagay para mas ma-enhance yung comprehension ng mga bata kasi marunong po talaga silang magbasa but the thing is hindi po nila kayang i-comprehend (I see that 'Tara, Basa!' contributes to nation-building because there is a concern in the reading comprehension among children. That is why this step contributes to enhancing the comprehension of the children because they really know how to read but the thing is they can't comprehend.)," she added. Rosauro also shared that she will use the CFW for her basic needs, personal necessities, and educational expenses. “First po, thankful po ako [sa 'Tara, Basa!' Tutoring Program] kasi po as a future educator, nagkaroon po ako ng first-hand experience wherein nakikita ko na po kung ano ang mga dapat kong gawin, ano yung mga dapat kong isaalang-alang if ever na maging future educator po ako. Of course, doon po sa financial assistance, sa cash po na naibigay, malaking bagay po sya sa mga gastusin ko lalo na po at third year college na po ako, mas marami po ang bayarin sa school (First, I'm thankful [to 'Tara, Basa!' Tutoring Program] because as a future educator, I had a first-hand experience where I could see what I should do, what I should consider if ever I become a future educator . Of course, the financial assistance would be of great help with my expenses, especially since I'm in my third year of college.),” Rosauro explained. Allan Amores, one of the YDWs enrolled at the Navotas Polytechnic College, said he saw huge improvements among parents and guardians of struggling or non-reader elementary learners after conducting "nanay-tatay" sessions for eight days. “Marami po talaga akong nakitang improvements sa mga parents, including na po doon yung mga parents na willing po talagang mag participate and active na po sa pagbibigay ng gabay at patnubay sa kanilang mga anak (I have really seen a lot of improvements among the parents, who are really willing to participate and are active in giving guidance and direction to their children.)” Amores said. These college student-beneficiaries committed to render service for 20 days to help the struggling or non-reader elementary learners and their parents and guardians. Parents and guardians of struggling or non-reader elementary learners will also receive cash aid worth P235 per day for 20 days by attending Nanay-Tatay module sessions, rendering assistance in preparing the needs of their children for learning and reading sessions, assisting them in their after-reading session assignments, and attending parent effectiveness sessions as well as other related activities. This is one of the features of the program to strengthen the family and community support systems of elementary learners who are struggling to read or are non-readers. The "Tara, Basa!" Tutoring Program is the reformatted educational assistance of the DSWD that offers short-term work and learning opportunities for college students belonging to low-income families in exchange for providing tutoring services to struggling learners. The post Over 400 college students receive cash-for-work under ‘Tara, Basa!’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Unity, cooperation key to climate crisis – Mayor Abby
Makati City Mayor Abby Binay batted for unity and cooperation among world leaders to further understand the urgency to mitigate climate crisis. This is what the city mayor said as she advocated for creating a cleaner and more sustainable world, when she went to Melbourne, Australia to attend one of the world’s premiere forums on climate change and promoting the use of clean energy in other cities and countries around the globe. The lady mayor was the speaker at the Cities Power Partnership’s Climate Summit for Local Government which started on 6 September and lasted for three days. The mayor delivered a keynote address to the session supported by the Global Covenant of Mayors where she is also a board member and a representative of Southeast Asia. “Makati is not a perfect city, but we have a lot of studies that we could share to other cities. I will continue to do my part for other leaders like me to further understand the urgency to mitigate climate crisis and remind everyone of the importance of unity and cooperation,” Binay said. Spearheaded by Australia’s top officials and leaders, the Cities Power Partnership’s Climate Summit for Local Government has been regarded as one of the most important events in the country as all its mayors and members of their council attend the momentous event. “This means key decision makers and thought leaders were given the chance to exchange ideas and suggestions for the conceptualization of stronger and more effective programs for climate action,” Binay explained. The local chief executive said she spoke about “COP28 and the Opportunities for Cities” as part of her preparations for the upcoming 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties to be held from November to December in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. She stressed the significance of such conferences to countries committed to a sustainable, resilient, and climate-responsive future. The post Unity, cooperation key to climate crisis – Mayor Abby appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM concerned over militarization of South China Sea, cites UNCLOS
JAKARTA, Indonesia - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its partners to harness their shared interests and rally them into taking joint action to address the complex challenges facing the world today. In his intervention at the 18th East Asia Summit (EAS) here on Thursday, Marcos said that the world is facing a number of serious challenges, including the intensification of geopolitical tensions, food and energy insecurity, and the acceleration of the climate crisis. "These challenges are interconnected and require a comprehensive and coordinated response," Marcos Jr. said. "We must not allow these challenges to divide us. Instead, we must come together and work together to find solutions," he added. Marcos Jr. stressed the importance of ASEAN Centrality and universal multilateralism in addressing these challenges. He said that ASEAN must continue to play a leading role in regional cooperation, and that all countries must work together to uphold the rules-based international order. On the issue of the South China Sea, Marcos Jr. reiterated the Philippines' commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes. He called on all parties to exercise self-restraint and refrain from unilateral and assertive activities that would increase tensions in the region. Marcos Jr. also reiterated his concern over the militarization of the South China Sea and the illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the area. He also called anew for the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) that is in accordance with international law. "The Philippines remains committed to defending our sovereignty, our sovereign rights, and the maritime jurisdiction in accordance with UNCLOS," Marcos Jr. said. In his intervention, Marcos Jr. also touched on other issues, such as the need to promote economic recovery, address climate change, and combat terrorism. He said that ASEAN and its partners must work together to build a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future for the region and the world. The East Asia Summit is made up of 18 countries, including ten ASEAN Member States (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam) and Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the Russian Federation, and the United States of America. The post PBBM concerned over militarization of South China Sea, cites UNCLOS appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl will push cooperation with Chn but also uphold UNCLOS—PBBM
JAKARTA, Indonesia – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. told Chinese Premier Li Qiang that the Philippines will "continue to push for cooperation with China and work toward more partnerships and collaboration" after bringing up "coercive activities" in the South China Sea. The two Asian leaders met on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China Summit earlier this week, where Marcos Jr. underscored the need for an international law-based code of conduct in the South China Sea. During the ASEAN Summit in Jakarta, Marcos Jr. raised concerns about "hegemonic ambitions" in the South China Sea. He urged other Southeast Asian leaders to find "practical" ways to protect the bloc's interests in the strategic waterway. "The President said that the Philippines will continue to push for cooperation with China and work towards more partnerships and collaboration," the statement from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) read. "He earlier said that he is pleased with the latest developments in the negotiations for a Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea and that the Philippines will assert its rights in accordance with international law," it added. During the 26th ASEAN-China Summit, Marcos said that the Philippines still believes that the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the rule of law should be used to settle maritime conflicts. Before the ASEAN-China Summit, Marcos called out "misleading stories that frame the disputes in the SCS only through the lens of strategic competition between two powerful countries." Marcos last talked to a high-level Chinese official at the ASEAN Summit with China. This happened a few days after Beijing's new 10-dash line and a few weeks after the water cannon incident in the West Philippine Sea, which made things worse between the Philippines and China. In August, Marcos said that the Philippines sent a note verbale to Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian after the latest incident in Ayungin Shoal, where the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) allegedly used water cannons and harmful actions against Philippine vessels. The CCG said it had taken "necessary controls" against Philippine boats that had "illegally" entered its waters. Several countries, led by the U.S., Australia, Japan, and Canada, came out in support of Manila and criticized China's actions. This is the latest in a series of events this year where Philippine ships have been harassed by Chinese ships. Li, on the other hand, said on Wednesday that Beijing's "good neighborly friendship" with ASEAN countries has grown. “We have been committed to mutual assistance and our good neighborly friendship has become stronger… We seek common ground while setting aside differences, properly handle disagreements through dialogues and consultations and consistently deepen practical cooperation in the traditional and non-traditional security views,” the Chinese official said at the ASEAN-China Summit The post Phl will push cooperation with Chn but also uphold UNCLOS—PBBM appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go provides livelihood support to Guimaras farmers
The Office of Senator Christopher "Bong" assisted farmers in San Lorenzo, Guimaras on Friday, 25 August. Citing the crucial role of farmers in ensuring food security, Go has been consistently pushing for stronger agricultural support systems and infrastructure. He was one of the authors of the measure that became Republic Act No. 11901, expanding the agriculture, fisheries, and rural development financing system. He has also been advocating for other programs to support farmers and fisherfolks in the country, such as the enhancement of the irrigation of farmlands and expansion of the National Rice Program. Go, who is a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, co-sponsored and co-authored the Senate, RA 11953, also known as the New Agrarian Emancipation Act. The law will help alleviate the debt burdens of over 600,000 agrarian reform beneficiaries nationwide. Moreover, the senator also filed SBN 2117 which aims to provide full crop insurance coverage for agrarian reform beneficiaries, as well as SBN 2118 which aims to provide better insurance coverage and services to farmers and help mitigate the impact of natural disasters on the agricultural sector, if enacted into law. Earlier, Go also emphasized the importance of improving competitiveness and safeguarding local farmers and industries amid the recently ratified Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement. Go believes that with open competition as a result of RCEP, the prices of goods should decrease, and ordinary Filipinos, especially the poor and those in the agricultural sector, must benefit from it. Meanwhile, Go’s team and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), assisted three farmers gathered at Zemkamps Chalet in Jordan. DTI provided livelihood assistance through its Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program, which Go pushed for during the Duterte administration and continues to support its implementation in order to boost the livelihood recovery of those affected by various crises. “Sa panahon ng kahirapan at pagsubok dulot ng iba't-ibang sakuna, nais namin sa inyo'y magbigay ng pag-asa at tulong na magbibigay daan sa inyong mga pangarap. Ang programa na ito ay hindi lamang simpleng tulong kundi isang oportunidad upang makabangon at makamtan ang mas magandang kinabukasan,” stressed Go. Go underscored the crucial role of DTI’s PPG program in providing opportunities for sustainable income generation and the agency’s dedication to assisting affected communities in their journey toward recovery and rebuilding their lives. “Palaguin niyo ang inyong negosyo. Kapag lumago ang inyong negosyo, dalhin niyo po ang mga kita sa inyong mga pamilya... mas masarap sa pakiramdam kapag pinagpawisan at pinaghirapan niyo po ang inyong pagnenegosyo,” he added. The senator earlier lauded the signing into law the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Philippines Program, which is one of the senator’s priority legislation aimed at boosting the country's micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Meanwhile, as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go offered to help those who may require hospital care. He also informed them that they may conveniently avail of medical assistance from the Malasakit Center located at Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Provincial Hospital in Jordan or in any of the other 158 Malasakit Centers throughout the country. “Ang Malasakit Center ay one-stop shop. Nasa loob na ng ospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno, ang PhilHealth, PCSO, DOH at DSWD. Tutulungan kayo ng Malasakit Center para sa inyong pagpapaospital,” explained Go, who is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. The program has now assisted over seven million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health (DOH). Apart from the Malasakit Centers, Go also supported the construction of Super Health Centers (SHCs), especially in far-flung areas. In Guimaras, Super Health Centers will be established in Nueva Valencia, Buenavista, and Jordan. Through the efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program of the Department of Health for 307 SHCs in 2022 and 322 SHCs in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where SHCs will be constructed. The SHCs offer basic medical services, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Committed to helping boost economic development and improve public service delivery in the province, Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the completion of seawall protection in Buenavista and the acquisition of a dump truck for the local government of Jordan. The post Bong Go provides livelihood support to Guimaras farmers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl ‘unaware’ of US, Japan, Australia joint navy drills
The Philippines is “unaware” of the plan of the United States, Japan and Australia to conduct joint navy exercises in the South China Sea, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said Monday. In a radio interview, Brawner said the AFP is still verifying with their Japanese counterparts the report released by the Kyodo News over the weekend regarding the planned navy drills of the three countries. Brawner denied that the Philippines had declined participating in the joint military activity. “Actually ‘yung nabasa po natin dun sa Kyodo News ay bini-verify pa rin natin sa ating counterpart sa Japan, sa US, sa Australia. Kung meron man po silang mga activities na ganun ay hindi po tayo informed, hindi po totoo 'yun na nag-decline tayo (Actually, we are still verifying with our counterpart in Japan, US and Australia if they have activities like what we read in Kyodo News.. If they already have such activities, we were not informed, and it’s not true that we declined),” Brawner said. “Actually, maybe what they mean is that we did not join or commit a ship; however, we have an ongoing exercise. In fact today, our exercise is ongoing in Palawan with the Australian armed forces,” he added. The joint navy exercises reportedly aim to underscore the commitment of the three countries to the rule of law in the region, following the water cannon incident last 5 August where the China Coast Guard drove away Philippine vessels and troops conducting a resupply mission for personnel stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal. According to the report, the US plans to deploy its aircraft carrier, the USS America, while the Japan Self-Defense Force would send one of its helicopter carriers, JS Izumo, one of its largest warships, during drills. The Royal Australian Navy, for its part, has committed to send its helicopter carrier HMAS Canberra. The report said the Philippines "canceled" its participation in the joint drill since the three other nations' aircraft “are too large to land on the decks of Philippine warships." The US, Japan and Australia were among the countries that recognized the 2016 arbitration ruling on a 2013 case filed by the Philippines over the parts of the SCS. The post Phl ‘unaware’ of US, Japan, Australia joint navy drills appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go highlights continuing operations of Malasakit Centers nationwide
"The Malasakit Centers are living up to their name, showing true compassion and dedication to the people of the Davao Region," Senator Christopher "Bong" Go said as he commended the Malasakit Centers in the Davao Region for their continued service in helping those with medical needs. Go was referring to the centers’ marked progress in assisting indigent patients in the Davao Region, according to the Medical Assistance to Indigent Patients Program (MAIP) report by the Department of Health (DOH). The overall success of the Malasakit Centers in the Davao Region is evident, with a total of 590,562 patients served. "These numbers reflect the real impact on the lives of our fellow Filipinos," he said. The Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao City served 1,611 patients in 2019, growing to 36,645 in the first half of 2023. The Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) in Tagum City also showed growth, serving 2,769 patients in 2020 and 25,649 in the first half of 2023. Local government unit-run hospitals with Malasakit Centers, including the Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital, Davao del Sur Provincial Hospital in Digos City, and Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center in Mati City, have served a combined total of 60,450 patients from 2020 to the first half of 2023. "Ang pagdami ng bilang ng mga pasyenteng napaglingkuran ng Malasakit Centers ay patunay sa epektibong serbisyo ng programa," Go continued. He also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and healthcare institutions. "Bunga rin ito ng matibay nating pagtutulungan para sa isang mas malusog na Pilipinas. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of our people," said Go. "I will continue to work towards enhancing medical assistance programs for the benefit of all Filipinos. The success of the Malasakit Centers inspires us to do more, and I am committed to ensuring that this program reaches even more Filipinos in need," he added. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which established the Malasakit Centers. The centers provide a one-stop shop of various government agencies including the Department of Social Welfare and Development, DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. The 158 operational centers across the country aim to minimize hospital costs for impoverished patients and have assisted over seven million Filipinos so far, according to the DOH data. The post Bong Go highlights continuing operations of Malasakit Centers nationwide appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aussies see Marawi rehab progress
Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development said over the weekend that the Australian government has partnered with Task Force Bangon Marawi to help develop Mindanao. An Australian delegation to Marawi led by Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Haek Kyong Yu saw the massive government-led rehabilitation of Marawi, Acuzar said. Assistant Secretary Melissa Aradanas welcomed Yu and Australian Counter-Terrorism Ambassador Richard Feakes and other delegation members during their visit to Marawi. Marawi City was left badly damaged by an attack by terrorists identified with the Islamic State in a siege that last five months and ended on 23 October 2017. The siege, which nearly flattened the city, also displaced over 300,000 people, making it the largest displacement of people in the Philippines since World War II. “Vital to this very same mission, the TFBM had likewise committed partnerships with the international community, including the Australian government, in further promoting peace-building initiatives and other related activities for our Maranao brothers and sisters,” Aradanas stressed. “Much work indeed still needs to be done, but through our concerted efforts and continued cooperation, we can ensure that Marawi’s rebuilding process remains on the right track. Rest assured that the government, through the TFBM, will get the job done,” she noted. Ambassador Yu, on the other end, stated that Australia has been the Philippines’ long-standing and steadfast partner in promoting stability across the Mindanao region. “This is my first time in Marawi City, so I’m really looking forward to this conversation with you about the real progress that’s been made in this region, and to see for ourselves the most affected areas and the recovery efforts that are underway,” Yu said. The Australian envoy was referring to a number of completed projects, including the Peace Park and the rebuilt Grand Mosque. Meanwhile, the return of displaced residents is being facilitated through a data-sharing agreement by the task force with the Marawi Compensation Board. The task force is using Kathanor, a biometrics-based profiling system wherein the number, location, status and other relevant personal information of people displaced from Marawi are collected in a database. The post Aussies see Marawi rehab progress appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»