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Boredom made this PDL escape Munti
The escaped person deprived of liberty who was re-arrested recently yesterday told a Senate panel that he escaped the New Bilibid Prison maximum security compound in July out of boredom due mainly to a lack of visitors. Michael Cataroja admitted this during the hearing of the Senate committee on justice and human rights chaired by Senator Francis Tolentino, who asked the inmate why he escaped. Cataroja said he was so bored because no one was visiting him at the NBP. Cataroja, 25, who had been detained at the NBP for less than two years due to violation of the Anti-Fencing Law, said he evaded authorities on the morning of 7 July via a garbage truck. After the garbage truck reached C-6 Road, he took off and then walked to Antipolo City. Cataroja said at that time he was helping carry the garbage to the truck and when an L300 van passed by he went under the truck and hid. His disappearance was announced by BuCor on 17 August and was rearrested by Angono police in Sitio Minahan Bato, Barangay San Isidro after a tip from a concerned citizen. The Senate committee held Tuesday’s hearing at the BuCor where Cataroja is expected to demonstrate in front of the lawmakers and other authorities how he was able to get out of the state penitentiary in Muntinlupa City. On Sunday, BuCor released a video of Cataroja reenacting how he clung under a garbage truck to escape NBP. Senator Robin Padilla, who claimed that he was a representative of PDLs, said that it was “unfair” to have thousands of PDLs suffer the consequences of the mistake made by one. The post Boredom made this PDL escape Munti appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Correction system is window of soul’ — Remulla
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said in his speech, “Correction system is the window of the soul of the country”, as the Bureau of Corrections released 949 persons deprived of liberty from its major prison facilities nationwide yesterday. "So, dapat maraming pagbabago ang magawa natin dahil hindi magiging epektibo ang correction system pag congested ang ating mga kulangan,” he added. The DOJ chief continued, “We also have to expedite the release of PDLs if they have already served their maximum sentence and our police force and prosecutors are now working hand in hand to resolve the issue of those accused being detained for so long much more than their sentence.” “Gusto natin na mapalaya sila agad kung nakapag bayad na sila sa lipunan (We want them to be released promptly in the event they already paid their sins in the society),” Remulla said. Those released were from Correctional Institution for Women (90), Davao Prison and Penal Farm (177), Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (23), Leyte Regional Prison (69), New Bilibid Prison (486), Philippine Military Academy (2), Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm (33), and San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (71). Of the said numbers, 556 were released due to the expiration of their maximum sentence, 213 were acquitted of the charges against them, 129 were given parole, 29 were granted probation, and two were released on cash bond. This brings to 6,322 the total number of PDLs who have been released under the administration of Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. Catapang has been expediting the release of PDLs as part of his reform agenda. The culminating activity, which coincides with the BuCor's fifth-day celebration of National Correctional Consciousness Week, was attended by Remulla, Justice Undersecretary Deo Marco, Justice Assistant Secretaries Francis John Tejano and Jose Dominic Clavano, PAO chief Atty. Persida Rueda-Acosta, Parole and Probation Administration OIC Atty. Bienvenido O. Benitez Jr., Board of Pardons and Parole chairman Atty. Sergio Calizo Jr., DOLE-NCR Regional Director Atty. Sarah Buena S. Mirasol, and other BuCor officials led by BuCor-OIC Gil Torralba. Torralba for his part told the PDLs to “(b)ring the good things you learned inside the jail and leave the bad experiences you encountered inside.” He also revealed that BuCor, under the guidance of DG Catapang, has launched an Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Unit (IMEU) wherein BuCor employees can report illicit activities of their co-workers and PDLs who have been released from detention can report via text or call against erring corrections officers. Torralba urged the released PDLs to report their bad and good experiences against corrections officers and assured them of the confidentially of their report. “This is one way that we can improve our services and reward our officers who do good and at the same time get rid of undesirables within our ranks,” Torralba said. The post ‘Correction system is window of soul’ — Remulla appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Principled peace
Self-defense is essential for a nation’s survival, which was what the United States veto of the United Nations resolution calling for “humanitarian pauses” in Israel’s campaign against Hamas was all about. Based on a formula that Brazil and Russia drafted, the resolution was meant to allow aid delivery to the war zone, mainly in northern Gaza. Under United Nations rules, a “no” vote by any of the five permanent members of the Security Council stops action on any proposal. The body’s permanent members are China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States. Russia had proposed two amendments to the UN resolution seeking a ceasefire that the SC rejected. Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia’s proposal came with its warning that anyone who did not support Russia’s draft resolution “bears responsibility for what happens.” Coming from Russia, the call for moral responsibility in Israel’s war against terror was somewhat off, considering its ongoing campaign to occupy Ukraine. In delivering the veto, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the “resolution did not mention Israel’s right of self-defense.” “Israel has the inherent right of self-defense as reflected in Article 51 of the UN Charter,” she said. Thomas-Greenfield noted that the Security Council had reaffirmed the right in previous resolutions on terrorist attacks. “This resolution should have done the same,” she said. UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward said her country abstained from voting on the resolution as the text needed to clarify Israel’s inherent right to self-defense. She pointed out that the resolution also ignored that extremist group Hamas, which controls Gaza, uses Palestinian civilians as human shields. “They (Hamas) have embedded themselves in civilian communities and made the Palestinian people their victims too,” she said. She reiterated the UK’s support for Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas, to rescue hostages, and to strengthen its security in the long term while calling on Israel “to take all feasible precautions” to avoid harming Palestinian civilians. The argument of the UK is the source of the dilemma in the current conflict — saving civilians but with the responsibility falling solely on the shoulders of Israel. Hamas, a terrorist organization, is not bound by, therefore is not expected to follow, UN resolutions. Directing Israel to implement a ceasefire, even momentarily, puts it at a disadvantage since Hamas and its terror allies will continue to fire their rockets while consolidating their forces. War indeed brings horrors that should not happen in a civilized world. Human frailty is brought to the fore by the greed and ambition of the terror organization, stripped of religious embellishment. Hamas wants to drive out the Israelis and establish a kingdom to rule over the Palestinians. A spokesperson of the Israeli Defense Forces said resolute action is necessary against Hamas to end its reign of terror and prevent the recurrence of its recent attack on civilians. The surprise assault on 7 October resulted in the slaughter of 1,400 mostly civilian Israelis. Israel then declared war on Hamas, which rules the Palestinian government, vowing to hold it accountable for the massacre. Hamas uses treachery and guile, digging bunkers and underground communities in civilian areas to evade the Israeli forces. The terror group uses the propaganda mill to elicit tacit support from countries with anti-Israel sentiments. It uses the Israeli airstrikes on its facilities that cause civilian casualties as leverage to get the Israeli operations to stop. The UN, as the organization relied on to keep the peace in the region, has failed to provide a fair and rational solution to the conflict. The post Principled peace appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BuCor transfers 450 PDLs to Iwahig, to close Bilibid by 2028
The Bureau of Corrections yesterday transferred 450 persons deprived of liberties to the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm in Puerto Princesa, Palawan as part of its continuing effort to decongest penal facilities. BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. said the 396 PDLS from the medium security compound, four from maximum security compound of the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City and 50 from the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City were escorted by 150 guards on board commercial vessel 2GO. This brings to more than 1,500 the total number of PDLs transferred to IPPF and Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm in Occidental Mindoro. Apart from decongestion, “Oplan Lipatan” is being implemented to isolate PDLs from nefarious activities. This is also in preparation for the planned closure of NBP and CIW by 2028 as the 357-hectare property of NBP will be transformed into a government center and food and transportation hub, Catapang said. “We really need to close NBP since it is no longer practical for us to stay here where high-end residential subdivisions are now located, and residents around the area are apprehensive and fear for their safety should a prisoner escape,” Catapang added. The post BuCor transfers 450 PDLs to Iwahig, to close Bilibid by 2028 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Int’l acclaim illuminates Meralco’s sustainability agenda
The Manila Electric Company continues to shine a spotlight on its unwavering commitment to sustainability with the recent accolade awarded to First Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer Raymond B. Ravelo, who was named the "Sustainability Thought Leader of the Year for the Asia Pacific Region." The recognition was conferred during the Sustainable Company Awards 2023 by Environmental Finance. Ravelo was commended for his exceptional leadership in spearheading Meralco's sustainability agenda called "Powering the Good Life", which is marked by a distinctive focus on four pillars: Power, People, Planet, and Prosperity. Ravelo's achievement was the result of a rigorous selection process overseen by a distinguished panel of over 30 independent industry experts. The Sustainable Company Awards celebrates organizations and individuals who are at the forefront of reshaping corporate practices to ensure a sustainable future. “This recognition brings great pride to us in Meralco as it reflects our earnest commitment to sustainability. As we move towards building a sustainable energy future, we will continue placing sustainability at the core of our strategy and operations as a Company to bring forth a brighter future for all,” Ravelo said. Meralco, a recognized leader in the Philippine energy sector, has deeply rooted its sustainability agenda in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, with emphasis on clean energy, responsible consumption and production, and climate action. At the center of Meralco's sustainability thrust is its commitment to a just, orderly, and affordable transition to clean energy. This commitment involves securing at least 1,500 MW of its power supply from Earth-friendly sources and actively developing 1,500 MW in renewable energy power generation projects. Additionally, Meralco has been at the forefront of adopting alternative and sustainable transportation solutions, with the deployment of 156 electric vehicles to date, constituting 7 percent of the company’s fleet and surpassing the government's 5 percent vehicle electrification rate mandate. To advance gender diversity and inclusion in the workplace, Meralco has launched its D&I program “#Mbrace”, which significantly increased female representation in its workforce to 23%, over and above the global energy sector's average of 13 percent. Moreover, Meralco recently achieved its highest-ever environmental, social, and governance (ESG) ratings from global companies. Notably, MSCI Inc. upgraded Meralco's ESG rating to BBB in 2022 and maintained it in 2023, a remarkable progression from its BB rating from 2019 to 2021. MSCI evaluates over 8,500 companies worldwide based on general and industry-specific sustainability criteria. Likewise, Meralco attained a record high on its FTSE Russell ESG Rating, with a score of 3.2 in 2023. Meralco thus ranked higher than both the Philippine global energy sector ESG rating averages, with strong performance in risk management, labor standards, corporate governance, and anti-corruption practices. Furthermore, Meralco is now the first and only electric utility in the Philippines to be included in the Bloomberg Gender Equality Index, the only ESG assessment in the world focused on gender equality in the workplace. Meralco was recognized for distinctive performance in anti-sexual harassment policies, gender pay parity, and building an inclusive culture. “We are resolute in our commitment to powering the good life. Guided by the UN SDGs, we, in Meralco, will continue energizing cities and communities while preserving our planet, empowering our people, and creating prosperity for all,” Ravelo affirmed. The post Int’l acclaim illuminates Meralco’s sustainability agenda appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Perjury raps vs 2 activists underway
Perjury charges are now being prepared against the two environmentalists who recanted their “handwritten affidavit” stating they have “voluntarily surrendered” to the military and declared that soldiers abducted them after they went missing. During the deliberation of the Senate Committee on Finance on 2024 proposed P229.9-billion budget of the Department of National Defense and its attached agencies, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa asked on the case update of Jhed Tamano and Jonila Castro who earlier retracted what they said in their affidavit. “May case preparation ngayon, inter-agency case preparation for the filing of perjury charges sa kanila. Nire-review lang ang mga sworn statements ng mga testigo (There is a case preparation now, multi-agency case preparation for the filing of perjury charges against them. The sworn statements of the witnesses are being reviewed),” Teodoro told Dela Rosa. In a previous press conference organized by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, Tamano and Castor denied that they surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 70th Infantry Battalion. Philippine Army chief LtGen. Roy Galido earlier admitted that the two young activists had tricked the military, contrary to their earlier statements sworn before the Public Attorney's Office. "We felt betrayed that's why we will file the necessary case, to use our laws, just like when you are also betrayed when your clients are betrayed, they file a case against you, so we just have to follow the rule of law in our country," Galido said. Meanwhile, Dela Rosa urged the DND to push through with the filing of perjury charges against Tamano and Castro. "We should do that. I am encouraging you. Grabe 'yung maka-kaliwa, grabe maka-jump sa bandwagon nung epekto na 'yun. Talagang all-out sila. Dapat tayo rin, sumagot din tayo. Parang lumalabas na para bang inaamin na lang natin na totoo ang sinasabi nila (The leftists are really jumping on the bandwagon following their retraction. They are really all-out. We must answer that. It seems like we are just admitting that what they are saying is true),” said Dela Rosa. The senator said the security forces should be aggressive in their actions against propaganda of the communist-leaning parties. Teodoro noted that the intelligence information on the two activists is liable. “Your honor, talagang sigurado po ako sa ebidensya dito (I’m really sure about the evidences),” said Teodoro, noting that the recantation of the two activists is just part of the dramas being perpetrated by the left-leaning organizations. ‘Lesson learned: Be wary’ Dela Rosa also warned the Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. to be wary of entertaining communist surrenderers. “Lessons learned, General Brawner. Ingat kayo kasi pwede kayong saksakin sa likuran niyan (Just be careful because they can stab your back),” he said. "Masyado tayong mabait, masyado na tayong gentleman. Masyado tayong mapagbigay to the point na 'yun pala, nilalason na pala tayo sa sarili nating tubig (We are too kind, we are too gentlemanly. We are too generous to the point that we are being poisoned in our own waters),” Dela Rosa added. On the other hand, Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri emphasized the need to provide sufficient funds for the NTF-ELCAC, to augment the military’s efforts on its Balik-Loob program. “We should help in their budget, we should continue providing funds for NTF-ELCAC, especially in barangay projects because that’s what winning hearts and minds. It has been very successful in Bukidnon and any other provinces,” he said. Dela Rosa supported Zubiri’s suggestion. However, the funds of the anti-insurgency task force are being lodged in the expenditure program of the National Security Council. The post Perjury raps vs 2 activists underway appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
QC anti-crime drive nets 22 suspects
Operatives of the Quezon City Police District have arrested 22 individuals for various offenses in a 24-hour operation over the weekend. QCPD Director P/Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said three wanted persons were among those apprehended by the Project 4 Police Station 8, Eastwood PS 12 and Payatas Bagong Silangan PS 13. PS 8 under P/Maj. Reynold Tobias arrested Sherwin Lubaton at 3:50 p.m. of 22 September 2023 for illegal possession of bladed, pointed or blunt weapons; the PS 12 under P/Lt. Col. Vicente Bumalay Jr. arrested Francisco Rosadeño Tañala at 2:09 p.m. of 22 September at No. 007, Barangay Calumpang, Binangonan, Rizal for Acts of Lasciviousness; and PS 13 under P/Lt. Col. Leonie Ann dela Cruz served warrants of arrest to Ferdinand Bunuan Pantinople at 3:15 p.m. of 22 September at Quezon City Jail, EDSA corner Kamuning, Quezon City for violation of RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Maranan said the respective courts of origin of the warrants will be notified regarding the arrest of the wanted persons. In the campaign against illegal drugs, 19 druggies were apprehended in a series of buy-bust operations. The La Loma PS 1 under P/Lt. Col. Romil Avenido arrested Paulo Ramos at 1:30 a.m. of 23 September, along Kaingin Road, Barangay Apolonio Samson, Quezon City and Francis Formento and Mike Pastrana at 1:30 a.m. of 23 September at Clover Leaf Market, Barangay Balingasa, Quezon City. Likewise, the same operatives arrested Alfredo Satiada at 3 a.m. of 23 September, in front of Petron gas station along A. Bonifacio Avenue, Barangay Pag-ibig sa Nayon, Quezon City and Adonis Mercader at 6 a.m. of 23 September along Don Pepe Street, Barangay Sto. Domingo, Quezon City. Confiscated from them were 1.15 grams of shabu with an estimated value of P7,820 and the buy-bust money. Furthermore, the Talipapa PS 3 under P/Lt. Col. Morgan Aguilar arrested Nelson Macaraeg; Mherly Solis; Erol Rivera; Mark Anthony Onana; Herchon Pronce; Jefrrey Harden; and Jamarde Kadil at 10:45 p.m. of 22 September along Ibabaw Ng Tulay, Quirino Highway, Barangay Balong Bato, Quezon City. Confiscated from them were two grams of shabu valued at P13,600; a black cellular phone; one unit orange Motorcycle Honda Beat; and the buy-bust money. The post QC anti-crime drive nets 22 suspects appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Stiffer penalties for economic sabotage backed
Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa said imposing stiffer penalties against individuals engaged in economic sabotage will serve as a “proactive and prompt response” to the alarming cases of smuggling in the country. Dela Rosa backed the introduction of Senate Bill 2432 or the “Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act,” at the recent Senate plenary session earlier this week. “I must say that this is truly a proactive and prompt response to the alarming number of cases of smuggling in the country,” Dela Rosa said. “At the same time, and more importantly, this is a decisive action towards the protection of our Filipino farmers,” he added. The proposed bill seeks to repeal Republic Act 10845 or the “Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016” which the lady senator deemed as a “failure” after the Bureau of Customs, its lead implementing agency, recorded zero number of convictions seven years after its enactment. Dela Rosa stressed the need to create an Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Council, “in order to more fully and effectively implement” the proposed law should it would be enacted. “To assist the Council in the prosecution of crimes, a Special Team of Prosecutors shall be created. At the same time, the bill also proposes to create an Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Enforcement Group to assist the Council in matters relating to enforcement,” Dela Rosa added. Dela Rosa then urged Congress and the public to support the measure to ensure justice, bring renewed hope, and build a better life for our local farmers. “If we take care of our farmers, of their dreams and hopes for the future, then we are also taking care of the dreams and hopes of the rest of the nation. Let us cultivate, rather than destroy, their optimism,” he said. The post Stiffer penalties for economic sabotage backed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Morocco medics face flow of quake victims with limited resources
The hospital in Amizmiz caring for Moroccans injured in the earthquake is now a tent pitched on asphalt under a blazing sun, and it has only around a dozen beds. When one bed becomes free, it is immediately filled again as the flow of victims from the disaster keeps on coming from villages at the foot of the Atlas mountains. Three days after Friday night's quake, the strongest ever to hit the North African country, relief workers are battling to cope in the aftermath. Patients are now being cared for under the large grey tent because of fears that the hospital building itself may be vulnerable to aftershocks. An ambulance brings the latest victim, 81-year-old Lhoucein Barouj whose leg is fractured. The old man has a haggard look, his mouth open. Relatives said he was seen by a traditional osteopath, but this will be the first hospital treatment he has received in three days. He has not had any pain relief either. "We had to carry him out of the house ourselves in a blanket and carry him for kilometers (miles)," said his daughter Habiba. Then "we waited in a field" for helpers, who came eventually to their village, Ait Mbarek. As in other mountainside villages hit by the 6.8-magnitude quake, landslides have blocked access, and a shutdown in communications has also delayed treatment for many of those affected. Basic care The quake struck southwest of the tourist center of Marrakesh, killing more than 2,800 people and injuring a similar number, according to the latest official figures. Most of the victims were in Al-Haouz province, where the epicenter was. On Monday, some arrivals seeking medical help looked exhausted and disoriented, among them a little girl in a Bugs Bunny T-shirt, her head bandaged as she lay cradled in her father's arms. The hospital at Amizmiz is local, and can handle basic medical care. But "we can't treat everything here", said ophthalmologist Doha Hamidallah. "We handle primary treatment such as sutures and fractures. But more serious cases are sent to Marrakesh University Hospital" some 50 kilometers (30 miles) away, she said. Hamidallah, who is in her 30s, arrived from Casablanca on Sunday to help along with "dozens of other doctors of all kinds from all over the kingdom". They take it in turns to triage patients. Tired and overwhelmed nurses deal with the flow of new patients arriving in private, public or military ambulances amid the clatter of helicopters above. Others distribute medicine to those who need it, mostly people with diabetes. "We also have to treat patients who were not injured directly by the quake, but who've been unable to get their medicine," said Christophe, a carer with the Moroccan Red Crescent. The first hours after the quake were difficult in the small hospital. "In terms of coordination, we could only go with the flow," said Dr Hamidallah. Mobile teams A voice is raised behind her, adding to the hubbub. "We need someone local who knows the area. Anybody?" A team is being formed at short notice to head out to houses in Anougal which have been cut off. "We send out mobile teams with doctors to the isolated villages," explained Christophe. Soldiers have also set up a field hospital nearby, and some 35 kilometres further east the authorities are putting up a temporary clinic with prefabricated buildings. This is at the entrance to Ouirgane, parts of which have been badly affected. Another military hospital was deployed on Monday morning in Asni village. More than 300 patients have already been admitted, military doctor Colonel Youssef Qamouss told AFP. Organising care has been complicated, but vital to manage stocks of the medical equipment available. John Johnson of the French group Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders), awaiting a green light from the authorities to help, said the Moroccans are coping well. "They have everything they need for primary care, but some things are lacking for trauma patients" such as anti-tetanus shots and painkillers, he said. There will also be a need for mental care in the days and months to come, he added. A few streets away, life has come to a standstill. One man stands with his arms crossed, staring at what used to be his home. The post Morocco medics face flow of quake victims with limited resources appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Elon Musk’s X sues over having to post moderation policies
Elon Musk's X Corp. on Friday sued the state of California over a law requiring social media companies to publicly post their policies regarding hate speech, disinformation, harassment, and extremism. The parent company of X, formerly known as Twitter, argued in a federal suit that the law referred to as AB 587 violates its free speech rights. "The true intent of AB 587 is to pressure social media platforms to eliminate certain constitutionally-protected content viewed by the State as problematic," the suit contended. "The state is compelling social media companies to take public positions on controversial and politically charged issues." The suit railed against the law, which requires social media companies to publicly post policies regarding hate speech, disinformation, harassment, and extremism on their platforms, and report data on their enforcement of the policies. "California will not stand by as social media is weaponized to spread hate and disinformation that threaten our communities and foundational values as a country," California Governor Gavin Newsom said when he signed the bill into law a year ago. "Californians deserve to know how these platforms are impacting our public discourse, and this action brings much-needed transparency and accountability to the policies that shape the social media content we consume every day." Musk early this week said he is considering suing the Anti-Defamation League, a leading anti-hate group, arguing that its accusations of anti-Semitism have led X to lose revenue. Musk accused the US-based Jewish organization of making unfounded complaints against him and X that have scared away advertisers. "Advertisers avoid controversy, so all that is needed for ADL to crush our US & European ad revenue is to make unfounded accusations," Musk wrote in a long X thread that started with a clarification that he favors free speech but is "against anti-Semitism of any kind." In a 2016 report, the ADL said anti-Semitic attacks against journalists had exploded on Twitter, "thanks to the rhetoric in the 2016 presidential campaign." It accused the social network of failing to control its "trolling problem." Billionaire Musk has been accused of fueling anti-Semitic tropes, including attacks against Jewish philanthropist George Soros. According to the ADL and the Center for Countering Digital Hate, problematic and racist speech has sharply risen on X since Musk completed his $44 billion takeover in October. Since then, the Tesla boss has fired thousands of the platform's employees, cut content moderation, and reinstated former president Donald Trump's account. Last month, Musk sued the CCDH, accusing it of a smear campaign that damaged the social network's relationship with advertisers. The post Elon Musk’s X sues over having to post moderation policies appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go helps recovering fire victims rebuild in Valenzuela City
The Office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go led a relief operation for fire victims in Valenzuela City on Tuesday, September 5, as part of the senator’s efforts to help disaster-affected households rebuild and recover. The distribution was held at Arkong Bato National High School in coordination with Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian. The senator’s team provided grocery packs, masks, shirts, vitamins, snacks, and balls for basketball and volleyball to 225 recovering fire victims. They also gave away shoes and mobile phones to select individuals. Meanwhile, the National Housing Authority (NHA) provided housing assistance to each affected family through the Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP). “Isinulong din natin na mabigyan sila ng National Housing Authority ng ayuda pambili ng housing materials tulad ng pako, yero at iba pa upang maisaayos muli ang kanilang mga tirahan,” Go highlighted. “Itong EHAP program, isinulong ko ito noon at patuloy na sinusuportahang mapondohan ang programa ngayon upang mas marami pang mga biktima ng sakuna ang makapagpatayo ng maayos na bahay at makabangon muli mula sa trahedya,” he added. The relief activity was attended by several officials, including NHA Assistant General Manager Alvin Feliciano, who expressed his appreciation for the senator, saying, “Senator Bong Go, ang buong barangay po ng Arkong Bato ay nagpapasalamat sa inyong biyaya. Napakalaking tulong po nito sa amin. Lalo na para makaahon sila sa buhay. Mr. Malasakit, saludo po kami sa inyo.” Meanwhile, Go highlighted Republic Act No. 11589, also known as the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021. The law, which was authored and co-sponsored by Go, aims to enhance the capabilities of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) through a ten-year modernization program, which includes the recruitment of more firefighters, acquisition of new fire equipment, and specialized training. “Alam ko pong mahirap ang masunugan pero magtiwala lang po kayo sa gobyerno at tayo po ay makakaahon muli. Ang importante ay walang nasaktan. Ang pera ay kikitain naman po natin yan pero ang buhay ay hindi nabibili ng pera. A lost life is a lost life forever kaya mag-ingat tayo,” said Go. The lawmaker likewise continues to push for the enactment of Senate Bill No. 192, which seeks to institutionalize the Rental Housing Subsidy Program. Under the proposed measure, a housing and social protection program will be developed to provide disaster victims better and more affordable access to the formal housing market through the provision of rental subsidies provided by the government. Meanwhile, Go filed SBN 193, or the proposed Mandatory Evacuation Center Act, which aims to ensure that disaster victims will have temporary shelters that will guarantee their safety and welfare while they recover and rebuild their lives. The senator also encouraged residents to take advantage of the services offered in Malasakit Centers nationwide, including those established in Valenzuela Medical Center and Valenzuela City Emergency Hospital, which are both located in the city. The Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop that brings together relevant agencies to provide medical aid to poor and indigent Filipinos. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act, which has successfully assisted over seven million Filipinos through its 158 operational centers nationwide. “Ako po ay nasunugan at tinulangan po ako ng mahal na mayor at mahal na Senator Bong Go sa kahirapan. Ako rin po ay nanganak at tinulungan ng Malasakit Center sa aking bill. Kaya naman nagpapasalamat ako kay Senator Bong Go sa programa niya dahil ako ay natulungan ng Malasakit Center,” Manilyn Sarmiento, one of the beneficiaries, expressed. Go also expressed his support for the construction of 28 Super Health Centers in strategic locations across Metro Manila, in collaboration with the Department of Health. These centers are designed to offer a wide range of basic health services, 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, which makes remote diagnosis and treatment of patients possible. Moreover, echoing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s priority of bringing specialized medical services closer to other parts of the country, Go has successfully sponsored in the Senate the Regional Specialty Centers Act which he also filed as one of its authors. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go has been a staunch supporter of various initiatives in the city. These include the construction of the Valenzuela Center for Academic Excellence, acquisition of ambulance units for the city government, and the construction of a multipurpose building in Brgy. Canumay West. The post Bong Go helps recovering fire victims rebuild in Valenzuela City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CHR to cooperate with ICC on drug probe
The Commission on Human Rights maintained a steadfast stance in its commitment to work with the International Criminal Court to probe the country's war on drugs on the watch of then-President Rodrigo Duterte. In the deliberations for the department's budget for 2024 before the House Committee on Appropriations, CHR Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc assured lawmakers the agency would cooperate with the ICC by furnishing evidence it gathered in its past investigation. "As you may recall, the CHR has investigated extra-judicial killings in relation to the drug war before. And out of that investigation, the CHR has generated a report on EJK in relation to the drug war," Palpal-latoc said. The confirmation came following a question by Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman about the extent of cooperation the human rights watchdog intends to grant to the ICC as it previously declared that they are "willing to cooperate" into the drug war probe, which has resulted "in thousands of extra-judicial killings, particularly the impoverished and marginalized drug suspects." About 7,000 people were killed under Duterte's drug war, based on the government's data, the majority of whom were from low-income families. However, local and international human rights organizations estimate it exceeded 30,000. According to Palpal-latoc, they are willing to supply the ICC evidence that the CHR already gathered in the previous investigation. However, he stressed that since the agency has yet to learn the details of the case filed in the ICC, the parameters of their cooperation are unknown. This, however, did not sit well with Lagman, asserting that the CHR should have been aware of this matter, taking into account the accusation made openly and publicly. According to the veteran lawmaker, CHR's pronouncement of cooperation without initiating communication with the ICC was merely a "soundbite" and a "press release" for the media. "Why don't you know? It's an open and public accusation before the ICC against the culprits in this war on drugs. Do you have a copy of the accusation brought before the ICC by some affected victims and advocates?" Lagman said. "You are fully aware that the official position of the national government is not to cooperate with the ICC and that bold statement is, in fact, a challenge to that position," he added. Palpal-latoc, on the other hand, countered that the CHR is "not a party" to the ICC investigation. Nonetheless, the CHR chief said that they are willing to provide legal assistance to the victims of human rights violations as well as witness protection pursuant to their mandate. Calls were made to cease the ICC's probe into Duterte's "war on drugs" that claimed thousands of lives during his six years of power that started in 2016. Justice Secretary Boying Remulla maintained a firm stance that the country would not engage in the ICC, claiming that the Philippine government would not let the court interfere in the country's business. Senator Bato de la Rosa, who led Duterte's anti-drug campaign, locally known as "Oplan Tokhang" previously said that he is ready in case a warrant of arrest has been served, but only by Philippine authorities and not by any foreigner directed by the ICC. The former PNP chief and Vice President Sara Duterte were the Philippine officials mentioned in the ICC prosecutor's report on the killings. The post CHR to cooperate with ICC on drug probe appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Escape at own risk, PDLs warned
Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. yesterday warned persons deprived of liberty not to escape as “he will hunt them down even if they are in a far-flung area.” Catapang issued the warning during the culminating activities at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City wherein 880 PDLs were released from BuCor facilities. He told the inmates to be released that they were very lucky to be among the biggest prisoners list released Thursday. BuCor data shows that 374 were from the NBP, 196 were from the Davao Prison and Penal Farm, and 92 were from the Correctional Institution for Women. Catapang said that the PDLs that if their time is up they will be released but as long as they are at the BuCor facilities they should follow the law. The Board of Pardons and Parole is also processing now the documents of a 100-year-old inmate at the CIW considered the country’s oldest person deprived of liberty. Catapang, meanwhile, warned PDLs that he would look for them should they escape. “Don’t escape. I will look for you. Even if you are in Tawi-Tawi or Spartly, I will look for you,” said Catapang, in light of the escape of one inmate who got bored due to a lack of visitors. The DG said BuCor underwent a “massive storm” in the past months due to an “untoward incident” after a PDL fired a gun and the escape of a certain inmate. Though Catapang did not name the PDL, the BuCor in July announced that PDL Michael Cataroja had gone missing from the maximum security compound of the NBP, leading to a congressional inquiry. Cataroja is currently back at the NBP after being rearrested by the Angono police in Sitio Minahan Bato, Barangay San Isidro after a tip from a concerned citizen. He said he was able to leave the facility by clinging under a garbage truck, based on videos released by BuCor. “He did not think about his fellow inmates. Now, BuCor is tightening its security because of him.” The post Escape at own risk, PDLs warned appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Manhunt on vs missing POGO suspect
Department of Justice Undersecretary and spokesperson Atty. Mico Clavano yesterday disclosed that a tracker team has been formed to search for the missing Chinese national allegedly involved in the operations of a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators in Pasay City. Clavano said in an ambush interview during the culminating event at the National Bilibid Prison that there is allegedly a missing Chinese national from the Pasay raid site in Rivendell. He said the tracker team will include members of the National Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Immigration’s Fugitive Search Unit. The DoJ official said they are doing everything in order to recapture the missing Chinese national from POGO. The spokesperson said the individual was among the 27 individuals who were recommended to be charged for violation of the Cybercrime Prevention Act. He said that the Chinese national was detained at the POGO facility in Pasay. “We don’t have a complete handle on all the exit and entry points. There are many windows and emergency doors that, well, we have put guards there but we don’t know them as well as the scammers know them,” Clavano said. Authorities must look into who is guarding the room of the said employee as members of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, the Philippine National Police, the NBI, and FSU were present. The lawyer of the Chinese national is also looking for her client. “They informed me wala na sa custody nila yung isa where in fact, supposed to be he is detained,” Atty. Gloria Quintos said. Quintos said she could not confirm whether his client had escaped. The post Manhunt on vs missing POGO suspect appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Senate probe brings up ‘notorious names’
“Notorious names” were brought up during yesterday’s Senate hearing investigating the escape of an inmate from the New Bilibid Prison maximum security compound, according to Sen. Francis Tolentino......»»
Jak Roberto brings Anti-Silos Class to Jose Rizal University
Actor Jak Roberto took his "Anti-Silos Class" to Jose Rizal University. .....»»
Kadayawan sa Dabaw now on its 38th year
Today, 20 August, is the culmination of Kadayawan sa Dabaw, touted to be the festival of all festivals in Mindanao. Now on its 38th year, the official festivity of Davao’s most colorful and bonggacious celebration started last 10 August. [caption id="attachment_173332" align="aligncenter" width="784"] street dancing at the festival. | Photographs By Henrylito Tacio For The Daily Tribune[/caption] [caption id="attachment_173333" align="aligncenter" width="763"] Floralfloat.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_173334" align="aligncenter" width="898"] The streets of the city were on fire as dancers stomped their feet, swayed their hips and cheered in their loudest voices.[/caption] A week later, 17 August, Kristine Claire Tar of the Bagobo-Klata was crowned as this year’s Hiyas ng Kadayawan. “Hiyas sa Kadayawan is a great avenue for us to show not only for our strength as a tribe but to show as a woman that we are powerful, we have a voice and that we are talented,” she answered when asked the question: “How does Hiyas sa Kadayawan empower the women of Davao City?” “The Hiyas sa Kadayawan,” she further explained, “is a showcase of different diversity, the unique beauties of the 11 ethnolinguistic tribes of the city. It is a way for us to showcase our uniqueness and our diversity, and I am an example for that.” Tar then concluded her reply, “I, as a Hiyas, have experienced the great opportunity to show and share my voice, in sharing my advocacy and my plans as a tribal youth president, and as a woman.” First runner-up Juhana Sultan of the Maranao ethnic group was chosen as Hiyas sa Panaghiusa while Althea Asnawi of Taosug tribe settled for second runner-up as Hiyas sa Kalambuan. Sultan also got the following special awards: Eastern Smile of the Night, The Spectrum, Pau-Pau Choice, Hiyas of Mr. D.I.Y and Best in Cultural Presentation. Street dances On the 19th, the streets were filled again with contingents from the city itself and even those from other provinces of Davao and even other regions with the execution of Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan. Some streets of the city were literally on fire as street dances stomped their feet, swayed their hips and shouted with their loudest voice ever during the event. Moving colors — mostly red, yellow, orange and green — flooded the streets. For the Davao City School-Based Category, there were six contingents: Apo Duwaling Dance Company of the Mabini National High School; Tribung Lacson Performing Arts and Ensemble of Lacon Integrated School; Sining Sayon Dawet Cultural Ensemble of Davao City National High School; Hinugyaw Dance Performing Arts of Don Enrique Bustamante National High School; Sining Mananayaw Ensemble of Catalunan Pequeno National High School; and the Performing Arts Company of Lapu-Lapu Elementary School. There were 13 entries in the Open Category or those contingents outside of Davao City. Davao Oriental was represented with four entries: Caraga Matimawa of Caraga National High School (from Caraga), Tribu Maganahay Matiao National High School (from Mati City), Banayan Performing Arts (from Banaybanay) and Rise and Shine Caraga of San Luis National High School. (also from Caraga). Davao del Norte had two entries: Madyaw Samalikha Cultural Dance Troupe (from Island Garden City of Samal) and Asuncion National High School Performing Arts Guild (from Asuncion). There was a lone entry from Davao de Oro: Indak Elizalde Performing Arts Guild of Elizalde National High School (from Maco). Entries outside of Davao Region were as follows: Tribung Balovebagueño (from Balabagan, Lanao del Sur), Agusan del Sur Artists’ Guild (from Agusan del Sur), Landan National High School Performing Arts Group (from Polomolok, South Cotabato), Kalingawan Dance Troupe (from Sto. Niño, South Cotabato), Gagandilan Akbar Performing Arts Guild (from Akbar, Basilan) and Sindac Anib Performing Arts Guild (from Bislig, Surigao del Sur). “The Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan is wildly popular because of the distinctively Mindanaoan beat and costumes,” one pundit commented. “Several tourists come to Davao to watch hundreds of people dancing with vigor in the streets, clad in their native attire and carrying extravagant props that would give Hollywood studios a serious run for their money.” Unlike in the past, the street dancing was moved to the afternoon instead of the usual morning. When asked why, Second District Council Al Ryan Alejandre, the festival spokesperson, told Davao media: “So, it will not be too hot for the children, and we have a good vantage view since it will be in the afternoon and the evening.” (Editor’s note: By the time this feature came out, the winners were already announced.) ‘Pamulak sa Kadayawan’ Also today, August 20, the Pamulak sa Kadayawan will be held. It is a sight to behold as it is patterned after the Pasadena Parade of Roses in the United States — where flowers and fruits are set in colorful floats by business establishments, community assemblies and peoples’ organizations as they promenade on the streets symbolizing all the bounty sustainably enjoyed by the city’s residents. This year, the Daku Category has nine entries: Ipi Kadayawan Float, Kadayawan Kaleidoscope: A multicultural Float Gala, The Fruits of Love and Caring the Nature, Kahayas sa Kalipay (XVI Global Holdings B.V.), IQOR Nurturing Hands, Nurturing Hearts, Harmony in Motion: Vista Estates and Vista Mall Tribute, Fly with the Champions — Philippines Air Asia, Inc., The Davaoeño Spirit (Aeon Blue), and National Food Authority Region XII. The Gamay Category has 13 entries: Guardians Anti-Crime Phil, International Inc., Barangay Councilors League of the Philippines First District, Teleperformance, Kababaihan Group, Duterte Squad Solid Supporters Group, Hudyaka sa Sutherland, Black Hawk Extreme Riders of Davao, Inc., Eng Seng Products, Tahawrog Tribe, Own Your Future — Alorica Teleservices, Inc., The Cause and Effect — A and L Marketing Solutions Hub, Inc., and Balangay — Philippine Retirement Authority. The Non-Competing Category has 14 entries. Perhaps not too many know that the festivity actually started in the 1970s when then Mayor Elias B. Lopez initiated tribal festivals featuring the lumad (native) and the Muslim tribes of Davao City where they showcase their dances and rituals of thanksgiving. It was then called “Apo Duwaling,” in honor of the three royalties for which Davao is famous for — Mount Apo, durian and waling-waling. In 1988, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte renamed “Apo Duwaling” to “Kadayawan sa Dabaw.” Kadayawan is derived from the friendly greeting “Madayaw,” a term taken from a Dabawenyo word dayaw which means “good,” “valuable,” “superior” or “something that brings good fortune.” “As the longest-running community festival in Mindanao, Kadayawan sa Davao has metamorphosed into a grand celebration that honors Davao’s rich cultural heritage and the many blessings bestowed on the city,” the Davao Tourism Office said. “Kadayawan’s sights and sounds remain unparalleled.” The post Kadayawan sa Dabaw now on its 38th year appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Dela Rosa: Amend cybercrime law to check suspects’ mobile data
The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs is eyeing amendments to Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 to allow the disclosure of computer data, including the content of calls or text messages by individuals who are subjects of case investigations. This suggestion came during Monday’s public hearing on the ambush of Aparri Vice Mayor Rommel Alameda in Nueva Vizcaya last 19 February, where Lt. Col. Christopher Luyun, officer in charge of the Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Unit of Cagayan Valley cited restrictions provided in RA 10175 as among the hurdles hampering the probe into the ambush of Alameda and five others. "We applied for a warrant to disclose computer data doon sa number ni Mayor Chan based sa affidavit ni Mrs. Alameda. However, noong una, sinagot ng (telecommunications firm) Globe na they don't have the equipment to save ‘yung traffic data. Pero nung inamend ‘yung warrant, nag-reapply kami Sir, nag-submit naman ‘yung Globe pero walang content" (At first, Globe responded saying they didn't have the equipment to save traffic data. But when we amended the warrant and reapplied, Globe submitted but there was no content), Luyun told the committee chaired by Sen. Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa. Aparri Mayor Bryan Chan was among the persons of interest in the attack on Alameda and his five companions in Purok 5, Sitio Kinakao, Baretbet, Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya. Under Section 14 of RA 10175, “law enforcement authorities, upon securing a court warrant, shall issue an order requiring any person or service provider to disclose or submit, within 72 hours from receipt of such order, subscriber’s information, traffic data or relevant data in his/its possession or control, in relation to a valid complaint officially docketed and assigned for investigation by law enforcement authorities, and the disclosure of which is necessary and relevant for the purpose of investigation.” Traffic data or non-content data refer to any computer data other than the content of the communication, including, but not limited to the communication’s origin, destination, route, time, date, size, duration or type of underlying service. "So maybe i-amend natin ‘yang batas na ‘yan na pagdating sa investigation ng isang krimen ay dapat obligado ang service provider like Globe to disclose to the investigating agencies ‘yung contents ng kanilang cellphone" (Maybe we should amend that law when it comes to the investigation of a crime, so service providers like Globe should be required to disclose to the investigating agencies the contents of their cellphone), Dela Rosa said. The committee also tackled several measures requiring the installation of closed-circuit television, the proposed Law Enforcement Body-worn Camera Act and the Checkpoint Regularization Act. The post Dela Rosa: Amend cybercrime law to check suspects’ mobile data appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ex-AFP comptroller Carlos Garcia released from NBP
Retired Maj. Gen. Carlos Garcia, the former military comptroller from 1993 until 2004 who was convicted of charges arising from illegal wealth, is now a free man after he was ordered released from the New Bilibid Prison. Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang carried out the order after Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla approved the release of Garcia, whose sentence has been fully served upon computation, including the 3,288 GCTA under RA 10592 or the law granting good conduct time allowance for persons deprived of liberty. Garcia was sentenced by the Sandiganbayan Second Division for four up to eight years in prison for direct bribery under Article 210 of the Revised Penal Code; and another four to six years in jail for facilitating money laundering under Section 4 (b) of Republic Act 9160 (Anti-Money Laundering Law). He was also sentenced for a minimum of one year and eight months to maximum of two years and four months for perjury by the anti-graft’s court and maximum of two years for violation of 96th and 97th Article of War by the General Court Martial of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Based on record, Garcia was sentenced to a definite prison term of 18 years and four months, but whose time served with time allowances have already exceeded his maximum sentence, computed based on Republic Act No. 10592. Records also showed that Garcia was received by the NBP on 16 September 2011 but his actual detention started in June 2005. Thus, he has actually served 17 years, five months and eight days in prison. Catapang said there is no longer any legal ground for Garcia to be detained at the NBP after having served his maximum sentence. According to prosecutors, while serving as AFP deputy chief of staff for comptrollership, Garcia acquired funds, real estate and other assets "by receiving commissions, gifts, shares, percentages, kickbacks, or other forms of pecuniary benefits, like shopping money or gratitude money" while handling government contracts. The post Ex-AFP comptroller Carlos Garcia released from NBP appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Congress terminates BuCor probe, Catapang says will not resign
The investigation being conducted at the House of Representatives by the joint Committees on Justice and Public Order and Safety on the disappearance of a person deprived of liberty inside the New Bilibid Prison has been terminated. Both committees were informed by Bureau of Corrections Director Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. that another angle is being pursued by BuCor investigators: that Michael Cataroja, the PDL under investigation, might still be alive. He was reported missing on 15 July 2023. Catapang said bureau operatives visited and talked to Cataroja’s mother, Florence, residing at Sitio Manahan Bato, Brgy. San Isidro, Angono, Rizal, on 5 August. Florence told the investigating officer that the last conversation she had with her son was sometime in June when Cataroja asked her to send him P200. If her son will contact her again, she will surrender him to Senator Raffy Tulfo to secure his safety, said Cataroja's mother. Another BuCor operative also obtained information from a female informant that she saw Cataroja roaming around the area in the latter part of July, while another male informant claimed to have seen Cataroja in the vicinity around 22 July. The BuCor has also coordinated with the Angono Municipal Police as well as barangay police and tanod in Angono, Rizal to arrest Cataroja or alert them should Cataroja reappear in the area. In terminating the hearing, Rep. Dan Fernandez, chairman of the Committee on Public Order and Safety, said the objective of the committee is to have different agencies such as the Bureau of Corrections, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the National Bureau of Investigation strengthen their coordination efforts. Fernandez urged the BuCor to renew its coordination with PDEA by forging a memorandum of agreement and provide them with an office inside the BuCor to assist them in their fight to eliminate the drug problem inside the NBP. Responding to the challenge by Rep. Bienvenido Abante of the 6th District of Manila for him to resign if he fails to reform and solve corruption in the bureau, Catapang said he serves “at the pleasure of the Filipino people, the President, and the Secretary, but right now I will not resign. Just give me more time because sinalo ko lahat ng problemang ito.” The post Congress terminates BuCor probe, Catapang says will not resign appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»