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How nations allow or restrict legal gender change
A small number of countries have made it easier for transgender people to change their legal gender, while other nations have restricted such changes, notably Russia and Pakistan. Here is a snapshot of the situation around the world. Exception, not the rule According to the International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA), 24 UN member states have legally allowed people to change their gender on the basis of self-identification. In about 40 other countries, the legal and administrative process can take years and may include requirements such as psychiatric diagnosis, hormone treatment, gender confirmation surgery, or even sterilization. Making it easier Argentina has led the way on transgender rights, allowing a change of gender on national ID cards with a simple declaration since 2012. Several Latin American countries have followed suit. Denmark was the first European country in 2014 to allow adults to apply for a gender change without undergoing medical or psychological assessments, with Belgium, Ireland, Malta, Norway, Portugal, and most recently Spain following suit. Since 2017, France has allowed transgender people to change their status on their ID documents without treatment, surgery, or sterilization but they must receive court approval. The issue of trans rights sparked a fierce row in 2022 in Scotland, where parliament passed a bill making it easier for people to self-identify their gender that was sensationally vetoed by London. The German cabinet in August 2023 signed off plans under which Germans will be able to change their name or legal gender by making a simple application to their local registry office. The law still has to go to parliament. Hesitating Sweden, one of the world's most liberal countries, was the first in the world to authorize physical and legal gender reassignment for adults in 1972. But last year it began restricting hormone therapy available for children diagnosed with gender dysphoria, such as puberty blockers, citing the need for caution following a strong increase in demand. It also restricted access to mastectomies for teenage girls wanting to transition. Finland in 2020 had already restricted hormone treatment for minors. Making it harder Russia adopted new legislation in July 2023 banning "medical interventions aimed at changing the sex of a person" and "the state registration of a change of gender without an operation". President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly railed against transgender rights in his speeches. Pakistan's religious judiciary ruled in May that landmark transgender legal protections from 2018 are un-Islamic and therefore void. An appeal is being sought with the Supreme Court. Pakistan continues to recognize the existence of a third gender, neither masculine nor feminine, as do India and Nepal. Restricting gender-affirming treatment, such as puberty blockers for minors, has become a major campaign of US conservatives. Arkansas in 2021 became the first US state to ban physicians and health workers from offering transition-related treatment to transgender minors. A federal judge in June overturned the ban. Around 20 states, including Florida and Texas, have passed similar laws. Anti-LGBTQ sentiment in Hungary has escalated during the rule of Viktor Orban's right-wing government. In May 2020, the country passed a law making it impossible for transgender people to change their name and gender on their ID documents. The post How nations allow or restrict legal gender change appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Maritime bills aligned with UNCLOS — OSG
The country’s goal to pass a maritime zone law may oblige other countries to fully comply with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, or UNCLOS. The Office of the Solicitor General and the Philippine Coast Guard emphasized this during Monday’s hearing on the Special Committee on Philippine Maritime and Admiralty Zones. Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said it could be the country’s “domestic version” of an international agreement. “These are the laws of the coastal state, and therefore all flag states with vessels plying, for example, our maritime waters would also have a duty to comply with the (said) laws,” Guevarra explained. Guevarra said a maritime zone law for the Philippines could “essentially become a reflection” of an international convention where the members comprise practically the entire international community. “There is an expectation of an obligation on the part of these member-states to comply with our own laws since these are, as I said, a reflection essentially of an international convention of which they are members,” he added. Citing the latest collision incident at the Ayungin Shoal, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela said a maritime zones law would benefit law enforcement institutions “in clearly identifying the Maritime Zones of the Philippines.” “With respect to the incident that happened in the Ayungin Shoal which falls within the exclusive economic zone of our country, I think the passage of a maritime zone law will clearly strengthen our defined zones in our maritime jurisdiction,” he said. Article 76 of UNCLOS mandates all signatory states to respect maritime jurisdictions, which can be up to a distance of 200 nautical miles from the baselines of a country where the breadth of the territorial sea is measured. The Senate is currently tackling eight proposed measures seeking to define and declare the maritime zones of the Philippines. In May, the House of Representatives unanimously approved House Bill 7819, declaring the maritime zones under the jurisdiction of the Philippines. HB 7819, which prompted the Senate to create the Special Committee on Philippine Maritime and Admiralty Zones, provides for a general declaration of the maritime zones under the jurisdiction of the Philippines. The maritime zones include the internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zones, and continental shelf. It aims to define the maximum extent of territorial sea (12 nautical miles), contiguous zone (24 nautical miles), EEZ (200 nautical miles), and continental shelf, allowing the delineation of continental shelves extending beyond 200 nautical miles, in accordance with UNCLOS. The bill also provides for sovereign rights over these maritime zones, thus establishing the Philippines’ exclusive rights to explore and exploit living and nonliving resources found in these zones. The post Maritime bills aligned with UNCLOS — OSG appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Lapid pushes early voting for seniors, PWDs
With the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections set next week, a senator renewed calls for the passage of a bill allowing over six million qualified senior citizens and persons with disabilities to vote early in local and national elections......»»
Budgetary leverage
By passing a financing bill at the last minute, the United States Congress avoided a federal government shutdown this week. However, the Biden administration’s top priorities, including defense financing for Ukraine, were left out of the final package. For countries like the Philippines, which has cozied up anew to Uncle Sam, this is cause for concern because America has practically left Ukraine high and dry without the full backing it needs to defend itself against Russia. Okay, so Biden said they “will not walk out of Ukraine.” Still, without funding, that’s just lip service. Having perfected the art of emotional suasion at one end of the pole and brinkmanship on the other, we would not be surprised if Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky would tell Biden: “Show us the money.” Sacrificing Ukraine casts doubt on America’s dependability as a coalition partner and ally, even as it stakes a claim to a long tradition of backing democracies in their fight for independence. The Philippines should take note. In the US, it’s clear that whatever the executive branch pledges, the US Congress can always override or, as made apparent again now, starve of funding. That’s the power of holding the purse string that could certainly affect America the mighty’s projection of power. From propping up South Vietnam with billions of dollars in war materiel only to leave Saigon in a huff — with choppers flying off the rooftop of the US Embassy in a hasty, humiliating retreat in 1975 — to giving substantial aid to Israel and Middle Eastern countries, the US has not stopped its posturing as the “policeman of the world.” As in Vietnam and Afghanistan, where in the latter it also abruptly pulled out its forces, thereby allowing the Taliban to retake the country in 2021, the US, for all its fire-and-brimstone statements at the start of the Ukraine-Russia war, may have turned its back on its legal and moral responsibility to aid Kyiv. As an adversarial state under madman Vladimir Putin, Russia has been destabilizing international norms, and Ukraine, by fighting back, has been sending the strong message that autocratic governments cannot make the globe their playground. By not including money for Ukraine’s defense in the 2024 spending bill, the US has lost the chance to demonstrate its dedication to the defense of democracy. But such are the vagaries of the budgeting process in the United States and, of course, the Philippines, with the latter’s form of government and jurisprudence loosely patterned after America’s. In the US, government shutdowns have happened before and will happen again when the legislature and the executive branches are unable to reach an agreement on priorities and lawmakers do not enact a budget in a timely manner. The budget can also be wielded as a political baton with which to make the executive branch more malleable. An example would be the 2013 shutdown in an attempt to defund the Affordable Care Act. Frequent disagreements on spending priorities between the two parties in the US Congress have led to stalemates, with neither side willing to pass the budget unless their demands were met. Budget delays had caused negative effects on the economy and public services. Some may argue that past shutdowns of the US federal government would show the Philippines has a more mature budgetary system in place, as a failure to pass the budget for a new fiscal year only results in a reenacted budget. But the problems associated with a reenacted budget abound. There’s the delayed implementation of new programs and projects. This, as a reenacted budget only allows for the funding of existing programs and projects. A reenacted budget also limits government flexibility to respond to changing needs. For example, if the economy experiences a downturn, the government may need to increase spending on social programs or infrastructure projects. However, this is not possible under a reenacted budget. But probably the biggest risk associated with a reenacted budget would be corruption, as it can give the executive branch more leeway or elbow room to fund projects while reallocating “savings” from projects that had been funded previously. In the shadow of budgetary bludgeoning and political brinkmanship, the recent passage of the US funding bill left Ukraine’s defense hanging by a thread, a stark reminder of the capriciousness of budgeting processes in both the United States and the Philippines, where legislative complexities often take precedence over strategic imperatives. The budget’s power to shape policy and dictate priorities, as seen in the Philippines with past reenacted budgets, illustrates the pitfalls of wielding fiscal levers as political weapons. In both nations, the budgeting process, while designed to reflect the will of the people, is susceptible to political posturing, causing disruptions and imperiling the very ideals of democracy it should be upholding. The post Budgetary leverage appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Senate OKs taxation reform bill mandating easier tax payments
The Senate on Monday approved a measure that would introduce administrative reforms in the country’s taxation, including easier processing of tax payments. Senate Bill 2224, or the Ease of Paying Tax Act authored by Senator Win Gatchalian, made it to the upper chamber’s third and final reading during the plenary session, with 20 senators voting in favor of its passage. Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate ways and means committee, said the bill targets to establish a tax administration system that will not only encourage taxpayers to pay their taxes truthfully and promptly but also facilitate a more efficient tax collection to fund various government programs. “Mahalaga na maisabatas kung paano natin mapapagaan ang proseso para sa ating mga taxpayers dahil sa kanila nanggagaling ang pondo na kailangan natin para magpatupad ng mga programa para sa ikauunlad ng bansa,” he said. Once enacted into law, SB 2224 will introduce administrative reforms that would simplify tax compliance and strengthen taxpayer rights by amending certain provisions of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997. The proposed measure also aims to revolutionize the current process of filing tax returns and paying taxes by allowing taxpayers to have the flexibility to file their returns and make payments at any Revenue District Office, or any authorized agent bank, regardless of whether it's located within the jurisdiction of the RDO where they are registered. Gatchalian noted the need for the taxpayers to be allowed to settle estate tax and donor’s tax in any RDO. “This would alleviate the burden placed on taxpayers who have to travel long distances or encounter logistical challenges to fulfill their tax obligations,” he said. In addition, the measure also seeks to institutionalize the use of digital filing and payment through any accredited payment channels or platforms. Gatchalian said the digitalization of filing tax returns and payment of taxes is expected to enhance the compliance of taxpayers. It would make it easier and more convenient for taxpayers to fulfill their obligations, he added. The post Senate OKs taxation reform bill mandating easier tax payments appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Major asteroid sample brought to Earth in NASA first
A seven-year space voyage came to its climactic end Sunday when a NASA capsule landed in the desert in the US state of Utah, carrying to Earth the largest asteroid samples ever collected. Scientists have high hopes for the sample, saying it will provide a better understanding of the formation of our solar system and how Earth became habitable. When they learned that the capsule's main parachute had deployed, "I literally broke into tears," the Osiris-Rex mission's principal investigator Dante Lauretta told a press conference. "That was the moment I knew we made it home... For me, the real science is just beginning." The 3.86-billion-mile (6.21-billion-kilometer) journey marked the United States' first sample return mission of its kind, the US space agency said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. NASA chief Bill Nelson hailed the mission and said the asteroid dust "will give scientists an extraordinary glimpse into the beginnings of our solar system." The Osiris-Rex probe's final, fiery descent through Earth's atmosphere was perilous, but NASA managed to engineer a soft landing at 8:52 am local time (1452 GMT), in the military's Utah Test and Training Range. Four years after its 2016 launch, the probe landed on the asteroid Bennu and collected what NASA estimated is roughly nine ounces (250 grams) of dust from its rocky surface. Even that small amount, NASA says, should "help us better understand the types of asteroids that could threaten Earth." The sample return "is really historic," NASA scientist Amy Simon told AFP. "This is going to be the biggest sample we've brought back since the Apollo moon rocks" were returned to Earth. Osiris-Rex released its capsule early Sunday from an altitude of more than 67,000 miles. The fiery passage through the atmosphere came only in the last 13 minutes, as the capsule hurtled downward at a speed of more than 27,000 miles per hour, with temperatures of up to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,760 degrees Celsius). NASA images showed the tire-sized capsule on the ground in a desert wash, with scientists approaching the device and taking readings. Eventually, they concluded the capsule was not breached, meaning its all-important air-tight seal remained intact, avoiding any contamination of the sample with desert sands. The team then lifted the capsule by helicopter to a nearby "clean room." Meanwhile, the probe that made the space journey fired its engines and shifted course away from Earth, NASA said, "on its way" for a date with another asteroid. Japanese samples On Monday, the sample heads to the Johnson Space Center in Houston for additional study, and NASA plans to announce its first results at a news conference 11 October. Roughly one-fourth of the sample will be immediately used in experiments, and a small amount will be sent to mission partners Japan and Canada. But most of it will be saved for future generations -- a "treasure for scientific analysis for years and years and years to come, to our kids and grandkids and people that haven't even been born yet," Lori Glaze, director of NASA's Planetary Sciences division, said. Japan had earlier given NASA a few grains from asteroid Ryugu, after bringing 0.2 ounces of dust to Earth in 2020 during the Hayabusa-2 mission. Ten years before, it had brought back a microscopic quantity from another asteroid. But the sample from Bennu is much larger, allowing for significantly more testing, Simon said. Earth's origin story Asteroids are composed of the original materials of the solar system, dating back some 4.5 billion years, and have remained relatively intact. They "can give us clues about how the solar system formed and evolved," said Osiris-Rex program executive Melissa Morris. "It's our own origin story." By striking Earth's surface, "we do believe asteroids and comets delivered organic material, potentially water, that helped life flourish here on Earth," Simon said. Scientists believe Bennu, about 500 meters (1,640 feet) in diameter, is rich in carbon -- a building block of life on Earth -- and contains water molecules locked in minerals. Bennu surprised scientists in 2020 when the probe, during its brief contact with the asteroid's surface, sank into the soil, revealing an unexpectedly low density, like a children's pool filled with plastic balls. Understanding its composition could come in handy, for there is a slight -- but non-zero -- chance (one in 2,700) that Bennu could collide catastrophically with Earth, though not until 2182. NASA last year successfully deviated the course of an asteroid by crashing a probe into it in a test, and it might at some point need to repeat that exercise -- but with much higher stakes. The post Major asteroid sample brought to Earth in NASA first appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BayaniPay expands North American reach
Backed by an additional funding round of $2.1 million, Filipino-owned financial technology firm BayaniPay is expanding its services in North America to better serve more Asian American immigrants. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, BayaniPay CEO Winston Damarillo said the company will leverage the large concentration of Filipinos in Canada to grow its reach. Filipino immigrants in Canada recorded a population of almost one million in 2021, while Filipino immigrants in the United States or US numbered around 2 million, comprising more than 4 percent out of over 45.3 million US immigrants. “We aim to sustain this momentum and explore new territories. Our commitment towards improving and growing our platform is driven by the desire to make the lives of Filipinos easier, wherever they may be found,” Damarillo said. BayaniPay currently serves customers in California, Hawaii, New Jersey, and Alaska by allowing them to remit funds to their loved ones and make direct payments to service providers in the Philippines. Its platform allows customers to have easy access to a digital checking account, a debit card that maximizes their spending power, zero fee remittance fees, and market-leading forex rates. According to Damarillo, the company will utilize its new funding, which brought the total seed round of BayaniPay to $6.6 million to date, for the planned expansion. BayaniPay previously raised $4.5 million in seed funding, allowing it to scale its product features and explore new territories. During the first half of the year, BayaniPay saw its average transaction value surge to over P100 million per month, a huge jump from only P30.64 million in average transactions last year. Damarillo attributed this to the strong demand for cross-border payment solutions, including remittances as well as bill payments. BayaniPay thus targets to reach P1 billion in total transaction value before the end of the year. “We are on track to meet this milestone, as we continue to acquire more customers each month. The demand for BayaniPay continues to grow as more and more Filipinos see the value and benefit of convenience while allowing them to enjoy zero fees and competitive foreign exchange rates,” Damarillo said. Early this year, BayaniPay, in partnership with BDO Remit USA, launched its Buena Mano Rate program of $1 = P60 forex rate for its first-time remitters, which exponentially increased BayaniPay’s customer acquisition. The Buena Mano Rate program is applicable for up to $500 of every first remittance or first remittance in six months. BayaniPay plans to launch its loyalty program for active users this fourth quarter, which would grant them preferential high forex rates as incentives. As of end-June, BayaniPay recorded a 36-percent growth in new users. It is also strengthening its partnerships with other institutions to further expand its portfolio of services. BayaniPay targets to increase its current 10,000 user base to 100,000 in the next two years. The post BayaniPay expands North American reach appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UK report exposes high number of anonymous property owners
Over two-thirds of properties in the UK held by overseas shell companies still do not publish information about the identity of their owners, according to new research. The report by researchers at the LSE, the University of Warwick and the Centre for Public Data found that law enforcement agencies did not even know the true identities of the owners of 35 percent of the properties. The UK government has previously committed itself to cracking down on anonymous ownership of UK property. Parliament was on Monday due to consider amendments to the Economic Crime Bill, aimed at closing some loopholes, but the LSE said Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative government was opposing this. "We still don't know who really owns tens of thousands of properties in the UK. The government should act to close these loopholes," said Anna Powell-Smith, director of the Centre for Public Data. The report said the identity of owners was hidden in the cases of 109,000 out of 152,000 properties (over 70 percent) held via overseas companies. The main reason for "missing or inaccessible information" was the use of trusts, accounting for 63 percent, it said. The report also highlighted how shortcomings in the register of owners of UK companies -– known as the PSC register -– could also be allowing corrupt practices. At present, nominees and trustees owning shares are not required to tell UK authorities who they are acting for. The government is opposing an amendment that would bring transparency to these arrangements, the LSE added. "The striking thing is that most of the problems with the register are self-inflicted," said Cesar Poux, research officer at LSE's International Inequalities Institute. "There certainly is some rule-breaking, but most of the problems are because the legislation is flawed." The post UK report exposes high number of anonymous property owners appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Empowering Filipinos with inclusive next-generation technology
Over the past decade, the telecom industry has disrupted our lives more than the century that preceded them. The advancement in telecom technology has transformed all industries, with economic fundamentals shifting to adapt to the mobility and digitally connected lifestyle. Indeed there is no limit to what can be connected, the size of the connection, or even the services provided in the connected world. There is no limit to what the connected experience demands. "While we embrace the power of technology, we also recognize the significance of making these advancements accessible to all. Inclusivity is the driving force behind our innovation as we strive to empower individuals and communities with our transformative mobile and broadband solutions," said Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Telecommunity chief commercial officer, at the launch of their latest products DITO Mobile Postpaid FLEXPlans and DITO Home UNLI 5G WIFI. She said the rollout aims to empower all Filipinos and telecommunities by giving them access to affordable high-speed 5G connectivity. DITO is also making its presence felt after OpenSignal, an independent mobile analytics company, awarded DITO multiple noteworthy awards in their latest report: Upload Speed Experience, Availability, Excellent Consistent Quality, and Core Consistent Quality. DITO even dislodged Smart Communications from the top spot in the Excellent Consistent Quality category after scoring a record-breaking 58.8 percent versus Smart's 56.7 percent. Moreover, on Core Consistent Quality, DITO soared to a 79.9 percent rating, knocking-off Globe Telecom, from the top spot, only registered 77.7 percent. Incidentally, DITO's Upload Speed has also risen remarkably, with a score of 5.2Mbps. At the same time, the Availability Award they received recognized DITO for providing a robust and reliable network connection in places where people commonly go, allowing users to access DITO's network and stay connected easily. All these accolades in just their 2nd year of operations are a breakthrough achievement for the people's fave new telco, DITO Telecommunity. Postpaid plan for everyone DITO Mobile Postpaid FLEXPlans, the telco provider's newest mobile service, gives every Filipino a chance to upgrade to postpaid. Customers can choose from affordable and flexible SIM-Only Plans (with a locked-in period of 6 months) or Handset Plans (with a locked-in period of 24 months). For as low as P588 a month, Filipino customers can enjoy the benefits of DITO Mobile Postpaid, such as generous data allocation, data rollover, UNLI all-net calls and texts, premium handset offerings, and a bonus Prime Video subscription for 12 months. For Handset Plans, DITO partnered with Samsung for premium yet affordable phones that customers can choose from. Samsung Galaxy A02 is accessible for all plans, Samsung Galaxy A04 is free for FLEXPlan 888, while Samsung Galaxy A14 5G is free for FLEXPlan 1288. Samsung Galaxy S23 is also available with a corresponding cash-out requisite which can be viewed via this link dito.Ph/postpaid/handsets. Other Samsung handsets will also be available soon. DITO Postpaid plan customers are entitled to other FLEXible mobile service features such as Advance Pay, Mobile Number Portability, and Choose Your Number. Advance Pay allows SIM-Only Plan subscribers to make advance payments for their monthly subscription fees with a discount of up to 40 percent. It would also be good to note that customers can easily use Mobile Number Portability to carry over and keep their favorite Prepaid or Postpaid number as they switch to DITO Postpaid. They may also choose their number or purchase a vanity number for their new DITO postpaid plan. Customers using these features must apply for their DITO Mobile Postpaid FLEXPlans via DITO Experience Stores only for proper handling and servicing. To ensure the convenience of customers, DITO assures a fast and straightforward application process for their postpaid plans. Interested customers may apply for a DITO Mobile Postpaid FLEXPlan through the DITO APP, DITO Experience Stores, and Device Retail Partner Stores nationwide (Rulls, MemoExpress, EC Panda). They need to bring the following: Proof of Identification (at least one valid government ID), Proof of Financial Capacity (For example Certificate of Employment, Credit Card Bill Statement, and the like), Proof of Billing that reflects the Customer's Address, and a selfie (for applications made via the DITO APP). "DITO wants all Filipinos to have equal opportunities to reach their digital aspirations. By introducing our DITO Mobile postpaid offerings, we want to break the notion that postpaid plans are too expensive and reserved for a select few. At DITO, we're proud to say that there's a postpaid plan for everyone," affirmed Jasper Evangelista, DITO director for Brand and Marketing. The post Empowering Filipinos with inclusive next-generation technology appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bill seeks BPO agents’ protection
A Senate bill seeks to institutionalize “practicable and equitable arrangements” for the protection of Filipino workers employed in various Business Process Outsourcing companies. Senator Manuel “Lito” Lapid, the bill’s author, said Senate Bill 2235, or an Act ensuring the welfare and protection of BPO workers, will serve as a recognition of the industry’s contributions to the Philippines’ gross domestic product. He added that the BPO industry has been bringing $30 billion to the economy every year, which corresponds to 9 percent of the country’s annual GDP. Lapid then cited the 10 to 15 percent share of the Philippines in the global BPO market. In 2019, the BPO sector provided employment opportunities to over 1.3 million Filipinos, and such figure continues to grow at an annual rate of 8 to 10 percent. Hence, Lapid said it is only timely that the government should acknowledge the huge contributions of the BPO workers to the country’s economy by legislating SB 2235. “We need to make sure that there will be proper standards for the BPO sector, including the humane treatment as well as ensuring that companies provide adequate benefits, privileges, and comfortable working conditions,” he emphasized. No abuse of workers Under the bill, BPO companies shall refrain from understaffing operations and overloading their employees’ tasks, as well as imposing a humane client quota. The bill also mandates BPO companies to provide their workers with access to relevant information, allowing them “to understand their rights, benefits, obligations, conditions, and realities attending their profession.” The post Bill seeks BPO agents’ protection appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl tourism industry needs sustainable champions
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism and environmental protection during the Philippine Councilor's League Occidental Mindoro General Assembly held on 3 August at Acacia Hotel in Davao City. A Davaoeño, Go began his speech by warmly welcoming the participants to his home city of Davao and expressing his gratitude for the trust and opportunity to serve the Filipino people. “Alam n’yo, parati naming naririnig kasi na pinapasalamatan kami ni dating pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte sa mga tulong, sa mga proyekto, sa mga Malasakit (Center) o ano pa man,” said Go. “Huwag ho kayong magpasalamat sa akin. Sa totoo lang po, kami po ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan n’yo po kami ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo po sa inyo," he added. Go, known for his relentless work ethic, recounted his travels across the country and his efforts to provide assistance during natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. "Kung trabaho naman po ang pinag-uusapan, wala akong pili. Twenty-four hours po, mula umaga, tanghali, hapunan, kahit sa panaginip, kahit sa kubeta, nagtatrabaho ako,” he said. The senator's speech took a focused turn toward the theme of the assembly, "Mobilizing Legislation and Governance through Sustainable Tourism and Environmental Protection," emphasizing the importance of sustainable tourism practices and the need to preserve the country's natural resources. "Tourism can be a powerful catalyst for economic growth, creating jobs and generating revenue. However, it must be done in a manner that respects our ecosystems and preserves the very attractions that draw visitors to our shores," Go stated. He also emphasized the importance of community-based tourism initiatives, saying, “Engaging in community-based tourism initiatives can empower our people, allowing them to actively participate in decision-making processes and benefit equitably from tourism-related activities.” In addition to tourism, Go talked about the critical importance of environmental protection. He called on the councilors to pass ordinances that safeguard natural heritage, regulate land use, and curb activities that degrade the environment. "Our biodiversity is a treasure that must be preserved for future generations. From our lush forests to our pristine beaches, every ecosystem plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance," he said. Go co-authored Senate Bill No. 1841, which seeks to enhance the preservation and safeguarding of the cultural heritage of the Philippines by means of cultural mapping. Meanwhile, Go also shared his priorities as chairperson of the Committee on Health, including the expansion of the Malasakit Center program and the establishment of Super Health Centers (SHCs). Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. To date, 158 operational centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to DOH. He also reiterated his commitment to support the establishment of more SHCs across the country, considering how they can significantly help reduce hospital occupancy rates while bringing government medical services closer to the grassroots. Services offered in the SHCs include database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and 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. "Nalulungkot po ako tuwing naririnig ko ‘yung mga kababayan nating mga mahihirap po na ayaw magpa-checkup, ayaw pumunta ng hospital dahil sa takot sa babayaran sa ospital... Tulungan po natin ang mga mahihirap po nating kababayan," he urged. Go then took the time to acknowledge all local officials present at the assembly, expressing his gratitude for their support and trust. He called for unity and collaboration across political affiliations and geographical boundaries. He likewise encouraged the councilors to learn from successful initiatives in other regions and adapt them to the unique needs of Occidental Mindoro. “Let us unite and rise to the occasion, embracing the theme of this assembly with determination and dedication. Together, we can create a legacy of responsible stewardship that will leave a lasting impact on future generations," he said. "Mahalin po natin ang ating kapwa Pilipino, hinding-hindi po tayo magkakamali. Iyan po ang natutunan ko kay dating pangulong Duterte,” concluded Go. The post Phl tourism industry needs sustainable champions appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tulfo wants PGC, MARINA officials probed for Binangonan boat mishap
Senator Raffy Tulfo on Monday filed a resolution seeking an investigation of officials of the Philippine Coast Guard and the Maritime Industry Authority for possible negligence that led to the deaths of 27 passengers after the motorbanca Princess Aya capsized off Binangonan, Rizal on 27 July. Tulfo's Senate Resolution No. 705 seeks to investigate “the factors contributing to the capsizing of the boat and identify lapses in safety protocols or negligence of PCG, MARINA, and other concerned individuals and agencies that may have led to this unfortunate incident.” In filing the resolution, Tulfo stressed that high-ranking officials of the PCG and MARINA who are guilty of "neglect of duty" must become accountable “in the name of command responsibility." “In most cases, a sunken ship or boat's crew members are often the ones punished and sent to jail,” Tulfo lamented. He then noted that the M/B Princess Aya tragedy would have not happened if the PCG and MARINA had properly performed "their duties and responsibilities.” “PCG and MARINA are the relevant government authorities responsible for overseeing and regulating maritime safety in the country,” he said. Citing reports on the incident, Tulfo said MARINA failed to check the “seaworthiness” of Princess Aya before allowing it to sail. Following the boat accident, MARINA suspended the safety certificate of the M/B Princess Aya Express. But Tulfo said the issuance of a “Passenger Ship Certificate” should have been strictly implemented in the first place. In the latest investigation report by the PCG Incident Command, the boat was allowed to sail with a capacity of 30 passengers based on the manifest list, but 70 individuals were actually on board the boat before the incident happened. Authorities found out that there were insufficient life vests for passengers while the boat was also facing inclement weather conditions. Tulfo said the PCG inspector, assigned to check boats at the dock site before sailing, failed to flag such issues. Citing a comment from a sea expert, Tulfo said the M/B Princess Aya’s beam “was not properly and appropriately designed to support more than 30 passengers.” “There’s a need for MARINA to properly inspect, along with a marine engineer, all boats being rented or use for public water transportation before issuing any permit to operate moving forward,” Tulfo stressed. Meanwhile, Tulfo said the results of the investigation over the incident “should be utilized to improve safety standards for marine vessels, addressing issues such as overloading, vessel stability, adherence to passenger capacity limits, emergency preparedness and crew training.” The results of the inquiry, he added, could be useful for the government in reviewing and enhancing existing legislation on maritime regulations. Tulfo is likewise eyeing to craft a bill that would further exact accountability from the PCG and MARINA officers should maritime accidents occur due to negligence. “This would assure that the PCG and MARINA officers, along with their supervisors, will face charges and jail time every time a ship or a boat capsizes due to their negligence,” he added. The post Tulfo wants PGC, MARINA officials probed for Binangonan boat mishap appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Padilla eyes Israel as model for medical marijuana use in Philippines
Tel Aviv [Israel], July 13 (ANI/TPS): Sen. Robinhood Padilla on Thursday said he is considering Israel as model for allowing cannabis (marijuana) strictly for medical purposes, as well as in preventing its misuse and abuse, in the Philippines. Speaking during the hearing of the Senate Health Subcommittee tackling Senate Bill 230 (Medical Cannabis Compassionate Access Act), Padilla said he learned more of the use of medica.....»»
Who foots bill?
In the grant of certiorari, or in layman’s terms allowing the Court of Appeals to intervene in an Energy Regulatory Commission decision, the appellate court cited ERC’s “abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction.” Legal experts, nonetheless, said the situation could be the opposite with the CA undermining the mandate of a quasi-judicial agency in issuing its recent ruling. The CA made the writ of preliminary injunction permanent thus allowing business giant San Miguel Corporation to disregard ERC’s rejection of its price increase petitions that did not favor it. Moreover, the court’s 13th Division ruled to grant the price adjustment petitions of SMC units South Premiere Power Corp. and San Miguel Energy Corp., thus subverting the ERC which had ruled against the SMC appeals. The ERC, through Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra, had previously criticized the CA 13th Division’s grant of a writ of preliminary injunction or WPI as having “the immediate effect of prejudging the disposition of the main petition.” Former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is a former Davao City prosecutor, had condemned the indiscriminate dispensation of the WPI and/or temporary restraining order or TRO, particularly on a purely business matter. In the ERC case, the CA was able to take over the functions of the regulator using the strength of the WPI. In essence, it assumed the mandate of the ERC while the WPI was in effect, which is now permanent based on the recent ruling. Such omnipotence of the court triggered Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile to coin the word “Presidential Injunction” which was his way of criticizing the frequent overreach by the court. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had also urged the court to review the TRO, saying that it would result in higher electricity bills. Guevarra, in the ERC’s motion for the CA to reconsider the grant of the WPI, said the “settled principle is that an injunctive relief will not be issued if it will result to a premature disposition or a prejudgment of the case on its merits.” The SolGen said that consequently, courts are “cautioned” against issuing a WPI and/or TRO when the issuance thereof “would have the result of disposing of the main case without trial.” Set aside by the CA ruling was the ERC order of 29 September requiring the SMC energy arms to strictly adhere to the terms and conditions of their power supply agreements with Meralco. “Thus, by granting the petitioner’s application for the issuance of the WPI, the Honorable Court, in effect, affirmed the petitioner’s act of terminating the PSA,” Guevarra said. He added: “The grant of the WPI had the same effect as though the instant petition was already granted upon a finding of grave abuse of discretion on the part of the ERC.” The CA ruling stated what SolGen had warned about and gave relief to SMC through the permanent injunction. The ERC now has the option to appeal the CA ruling and thereafter elevate the case to the Supreme Court. The sum of it is that SMC escaped its obligation under its contract with Meralco “to the damage and prejudice of the public consumers,” according to Guevarra. The court gave SMC the option of still pursuing the PSAs with the adjustments in price despite the provision on straight pricing that did not allow the pass-on of costs to consumers. But why bother, when it can also unilaterally terminate the contract through the court order disregarding the ERC ruling? As such, SMC can exercise its will freely on how to collect from electricity users the P15 billion or so that it claimed to have lost from the Meralco contract that it had won through a fair bid. The crux of the ongoing legal tussle is that it would be the consumers who would have to bear the consequences of bad business decisions that SMC made in the supply contract. The post Who foots bill? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New door opens
The Maharlika Investment Fund bill after months of deliberation is as good as signed. The next step would be the crafting of the implementing rules and regulations or IRR where the nitty-gritty of the law will be addressed. The IRR will be prepared by economic managers. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will then pick the people who will comprise the Maharlika Investment Corp. or MIC that the law mandates will manage the fund. The MIC will manage the sovereign wealth fund that will invest in a wide range of assets, including foreign currencies, fixed-income instruments, domestic and foreign corporate bonds, commercial real estate, and infrastructure, based on the provisions of the law. The battleground for the MIF thus returns to the Executive branch as detractors now have the economic managers in their crosshairs as the IRR is being drafted. One of the prime movers of the MIF, Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, said the IRR will flesh out the specifics of the crucial fund build-up and the forming of the MIC, such as the company’s regulation by the Civil Service Commission, the listing of the MIF in the stock market, and allowing multilateral financing institutions like the World Bank and Asian Development Bank to be strategic partners of the MIF. “I congratulate House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, Chairman Irwin Tieng, and our Senate counterparts. I will continue to offer what I can by way of prior experience and subject matter expertise in the drafting of the IRR,” Salceda said. Congress ratified the bill before adjourning its session last 31 May but the final copy had to be refined following intrigues hurled by unrelenting critics who deemed it unconstitutional primarily due to the differing prescriptive periods for filing charges related to irregularities. The discrepancies proved to be clerical errors and not a reason to veto the bill as the inconsolable minority had demanded. The MIF comes at a propitious period after the economy grew by 7.6 percent and 7.2 percent in the third and fourth quarters, respectively, and 6.4 percent in the first quarter of this year — numbers that show the country has among the fastest development clips in the world. Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno expects the MIF to be in full operation before the end of the year. The P125-billion seed fund will be drawn from the Land Bank of the Philippines, the Development Bank of the Philippines, and the national government. The national government’s contribution will come from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas dividends, its share in the income of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., privatization proceeds, and royalties and special assessments. Being looked into is channeling Malampaya natural gas earnings to bolster the fund. The MIF will initially have at its disposal P75 billion by the end of the year, which will come from Landbank and DBP and may forthwith be invested in several ventures or the capital markets. Fund managers estimate a return of over 10 percent just for the initial P75-billion investment. Economic managers envision the MIF as creating a new source of financing for the government which now mainly relies on tax revenues and borrowings to plug the fiscal gap. The MIF will free up the government’s fiscal space as the burden of borrowing is reduced with the sovereign wealth fund augmenting the government’s resources. Another MIF function will be to accelerate investments in development projects such as infrastructure through tie-ups with capitalists and other sovereign funds. The perennial budget deficits, which are the culprit in the debt pile-up, may soon be a thing of the past when the MIF goes full throttle. The post New door opens appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go bares 629 funded SHCs, cautions tapping nursing grads
Congress has set funding for the construction of more than 600 Super Health Centers nationwide in 2022 and this year, according to Senator Christopher “Bong” Go. The chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography also expressed support for tapping nursing graduates to bolster the country’s dwindling number of hospital workers but advised the Department of Health to proceed with caution to avoid compromising the quality of healthcare service. “With the help of lawmakers, 307 Super Health Centers are funded for year 2022 and another 322 for 2023 in the entire Philippines,” Go said in a video message during his team’s relief distribution mission in Obando, Bulacan on Friday, 23 June. In the province, the cities of San Jose del Monte, Meycauayan and Baliuag; and the towns of Balagtas, Bulakan, San Miguel, Guiguinto and Pandi will have such facilities catering to residents of remote communities under the 2022 national budget, he said. The 2023 budget covers the building of SHCs in Baliuag City and in the towns of Angat, Marilao, Paombong, Plaridel, San Ildefonso and San Rafael, Go added. On 21 June, Go visited San Rafael for the groundbreaking of the town’s SHC and led a relief operation for indigents there. On top of traditional services, SHCs will provide diagnostics; pharmacy, ambulatory surgery; eye, ear, nose, and throat; oncology; physical therapy and rehabilitation and telemedicine services. Go also encouraged Bulakeños to go to Malasakit Centers for their health concerns as there is one such counter at the Bulacan Medical Center in Malolos City, Rogaciano M. Mercado Memorial Hospital in Sta. Maria, and Ospital ng Lungsod ng San Jose del Monte in San Jose del Monte City. The Malasakit Centers, a brainchild of Go, helps patient get help from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office in paying for their medical bills. ‘Uphold professional standards’ Meanwhile, Go urged the DoH to thoroughly study the proposed hiring of unlicensed nurse as there are existing laws and regulations meant to uphold professional standards and protect lives. “They (nursing graduates) must pass the standard,” Go reiterated in an ambush interview after personally aiding victims of the Mount Mayon unrest in Tabaco City, Albay on Thursday, 22 June. “We cannot compromise the standard here because we have to prioritize the life and health of every Filipino.” Earlier, DoH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa proposed that nursing graduates who scored 70 to 74 percent in licensure test be employed as supplementary workforce in the healthcare system but assigned with restricted responsibilities. ‘Nursing graduates who did not pass the board exam cannot be granted temporary or special licenses.’ Herbosa mentioned that Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma is open to the proposal and intends to hold discussions with the Professional Regulation Commission regarding the issuance of temporary licenses for such graduates. The PRC has clarified that nursing graduates who did not pass the board exam cannot be granted temporary or special licenses to work in public hospitals in the absence of a law allowing such. He pointed out that Republic Act 9173 solely provides special or temporary permits for licensed foreign nurses. However, PRC Commissioner Jose Cueto Jr. said that in exceptional circumstances like epidemics or national emergencies, the health secretary may provide limited authorization to medical graduates. Go said he remains open to amending existing laws to strengthen the health workforce while still being compliant with standards. However, the senator emphasized that the goal must be to continue improving medical education in the country to produce enough number of qualified healthcare professionals. Go has filed the Advanced Nursing Education bill that offers leadership roles, specialization and recognition to professional nurses. The measure also integrates community immersion in the nursing curriculum to encourage community service and introduce masteral and doctoral degrees in nursing. The post Go bares 629 funded SHCs, cautions tapping nursing grads appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go lauds TESDA graduates in Carcar City, Cebu
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go congratulated the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) trainees who recently had their graduation ceremony in Carcar City, Cebu on Saturday, June 3. In his video message, the senator took the opportunity to commend the graduates for their dedication and perseverance in completing their training programs, saying, “Binabati ko po ang lahat ng mga graduates ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority ngayong araw na ito. Malaking tagumpay po ito para sa inyong lahat dulot ng inyong mga pagsisikap upang makumpleto ang inyong pag-aaral.” “Habang ipinagdiriwang natin ang inyong graduation, lubos din akong nagpapasalamat sa TESDA dahil matagumpay ito na nakapagbibigay ng mga kakayahan at kasanayan sa ating mga kababayan upang mabigyan sila ng job at livelihood opportunities, at magkaroon ng mas magandang kinabukasan,” he continued. The senator likewise emphasized the importance of vocational education in empowering individuals and uplifting communities. He acknowledged the significant role TESDA plays in providing accessible and quality training programs, equipping Filipinos with the skills needed to secure better employment opportunities and contribute to the nation's economic growth. “We need more skilled workers in various industries, and I encourage you, graduates to use your newly acquired skills to help our country's economy grow. You are now equipped to contribute to our society and make a positive impact in your respective communities,” Go encouraged. "Your hard work and commitment to honing your skills have not gone unnoticed. Today, you stand as a testament to the power of determination and the transformative impact of vocational education. I commend each and every one of you for your achievements," he added. Meanwhile, Go’s team provided assistance, such as grocery packs, snacks, and shirts to 83 graduates. Recognizing the crucial role that education plays in shaping the nation's future, Senator Go has consistently championed measures, such as Senate Bill Nos. 1359, 1360, and 1864, all aimed at enhancing the quality and accessibility of education for all Filipinos. SBN 1359, or the No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act, co-authored and co-sponsored by Go, was approved on the third and final reading last March. The proposed measure penalizes the imposition of a “no permit, no exam” policy or any similar policy that prohibits students from taking an examination or other similar educational assessments due to unpaid tuition or other school fees. Go has also co-authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1360 which seeks to expand the coverage of the tertiary education subsidy (TES) by amending Republic Act No. 10931, or the Universal Access To Quality Tertiary Education Act. Lastly, SBN 1864, or the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act, aims to provide relief to students who have taken out loans but are unable to pay them back due to disasters and other emergencies. Go also filed SBN 2115, which aims to institutionalize a technical-vocational education and training and livelihood program for rehabilitated drug dependents. The bill aims to provide skills training and enhance the employability of former drug dependents, allowing them to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. The post Bong Go lauds TESDA graduates in Carcar City, Cebu appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go wants safeguards enforced in MIF bill
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has reminded the executive branch of government to follow and enforce safeguards in the Maharlika Investment Fund bill as it gets Senate approval. “To the executive, we will hold you to your commitment that safeguards will be followed and fully enforced. Hindi dapat masasayang ang pondo ng bayan. Pangalagaan at siguruhin na walang mawawala sa korapsyon o misuse of funds,” he said. Senate Bill No. 2020 creating the Maharlika Investment Fund was approved by the Senate on its third and final reading in the early morning of Wednesday, 31 May. In the explanation of his vote which was inserted into the records after the Senate voted on the measure, Go, vice chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, stressed that the legislative branch will sternly monitor the implementation of the measure should it be enacted into law, highlighting Congress’ oversight to ensure that public funds used and the welfare of the people, in general, are protected and upheld. “Babantayan po namin ito. And just a reminder that any law can be amended or repealed when necessary. We will exercise to the fullest extent our oversight to ensure that the welfare and future of Filipinos are upheld and protected,” he said. While recognizing the need to explore investment opportunities for the national government to generate additional resources to fund the post-COVID-19 economic recovery, Go asserts that the government must be prudent and careful in utilizing limited resources. “The intention of the proposed measure, that is to ensure that our country will attain economic transformation, growth, and sustainability, is noble. Lahat naman po tayo gustong tuluyang maka-recover ang ekonomiya,” he said. “However, government resources are limited, lalo na ngayon bawat piso, bawat sentimo ay napakahalaga. That is why I commend the good sponsor for ensuring that safeguards are in place to protect the funds of the Filipino people,” he said, commending Sen. Mark Villar who sponsored the measure. Go gave his support to the measure, cognizant of the capability of the Executive to fully implement the law as intended. He also reminded that Congress is giving its trust to the Executive but will not shy away from its oversight powers just to safeguard the interest of the Filipino people. “Given this, I give my conditional support to this measure knowing that this went through scrutiny by the collective wisdom of the whole legislative body and with utmost trust and respect in the capability of the executive to implement this as intended,” he said. The bill was approved after an 11-hour session a few days after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. certified it as urgent, thereby allowing Senate to pass the same measure on second and third reading at the same day. The House of Representatives passed its own version in December of last year. A bicameral conference was held on Wednesday, 31 May, to reconcile the two versions. Upon adoption, the bill can be transmitted to the President for his approval. In previous interviews, Go asserted the need to have credible, competent, and trustworthy fund managers. “Kailangan competent, trustworthy, at saka talagang maaasahan mo na walang pondong masayang dito… Unahin natin palagi ang interes ng bansa at kung ano makakabuti sa mga Pilipino, lalo na sa mga mahihirap,” he stressed earlier. The post Go wants safeguards enforced in MIF bill appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘We want to be free’: Filipinos demand right to divorce
Philippine mother-of-three Stella Sibonga is desperate to end a marriage she never wanted. But divorce in the Catholic-majority country is illegal, and a court annulment takes years. The Philippines is the only place outside the Vatican where divorce is outlawed, with the Catholic Church -- which holds great influence on Philippine society -- opposing the practice as against its teachings. Those in favor of legalizing divorce say the ban makes it difficult to escape violent or otherwise abusive spouses, or even for couples to amicably cut ties. People wanting to end their marriage can ask a court for an annulment or a declaration that the nuptials were invalid from the start, but the government can appeal against those decisions. The legal process is slow and expensive -- cases can cost as much as $10,000 or more in a country plagued by poverty -- with no guarantee of success, and some people seeking a faster result fall for online scams. "I don't understand why it has to be this difficult," said Sibonga, who has spent 11 years trying to get out of a marriage that her parents forced her into after she became pregnant. Sibonga's legal battle began in 2012, when she applied to a court to cancel her marriage on the basis of her husband's alleged "psychological incapacity", one of the grounds for terminating a matrimony. After five years and $3,500 in legal fees, a judge finally agreed. The former domestic worker's relief was, however, short-lived. The Office of the Solicitor General, which as the government's legal representative is tasked with protecting the institution of marriage, successfully appealed the decision in 2019. Sibonga said she requested the Court of Appeals to reverse its ruling, but is still waiting for an answer. "Why are we, the ones who experienced suffering, abandonment and abuse, being punished by the law?" said Sibonga, 45, who lives near Manila. "All we want is to be free." 'Dysfunctional marriages' The most powerful opponent to divorce in the Philippines is the Catholic Church, which is also against abortion and contraceptives. Around 78 percent of the country's 110 million people are Catholic, according to official census data, and many politicians are wary of contradicting the Church on sensitive social issues. But Congress has scored significant wins in recent years. A controversial birth control law was passed in 2012, despite strong opposition from the Church. And in 2018, majority and opposition parties in the House of Representatives approved a divorce bill that later stalled in the Senate. It was the first time such a proposal had got that far. Surveys conducted by polling company Social Weather Stations show a shift in Philippine attitudes towards divorce. In 2005, 43 percent of Filipinos supported legalizing divorce "for irreconcilably separated couples", while 45 percent disagreed. The same survey in 2017 showed 53 percent in favor, while only 32 percent disagreed. A group of lawmakers is now leading a fresh push to legalize divorce, with several bills filed in the House and the Senate. "We are not destroying any marriage," said Edcel Lagman, a congressman and author of one of the bills. Lagman said divorce was for "dysfunctional marriages beyond repair" and legalizing it would enable women and their children to escape "intolerant and abusive husbands". Before he was elected, President Ferdinand Marcos said the country should consider allowing divorce, but insisted it should not be easy. Annulment scams The burdensome process for getting a court order to end a marriage has spawned online scams offering to secure a quick ruling without time-consuming court appearances. AFP fact checkers found numerous Facebook posts spreading false information about the legal process for annulment in order to attract clients, underscoring a growing global trend of fraudsters profiting off disinformation. One victim told AFP she was charged the equivalent of $2,400 for an annulment service that turned out to be fake. She is now considering converting to Islam in the hope of securing a divorce under Muslim law. "I'm really trying every possible option just to be single again," she told AFP on the condition of anonymity. "Annulment takes so long, it's so expensive and it's not guaranteed, so I'm seeking a more convenient way." Family law specialist Katrina Legarda said the number of people falling for bogus services showed there was a "dire need" for new legislation. But Father Jerome Secillano, of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines, said the nation should be "proud" to be the only country outside the Vatican "holding on to the traditional concept of marriage". "There will always be imperfections in a relationship," he said. Secillano said divorcing an abusive partner would "perpetuate the violence" because the perpetrator would go on to abuse their next partner. "You are not actually curing the disease itself," he said. 'I'm a sinner' Sibonga was raised a Catholic, but stopped attending church to avoid accusations of adultery. She has a long-term boyfriend, but cannot tie the knot with him until her first marriage is legally terminated. That her case has dragged on for so long is not unusual in the Philippines, where a creaky justice system can take years to resolve even minor issues. "People think that because I am still technically married, I'm a sinner," she said. "They really believe that what God has united cannot be separated. Really? Even if your husband is trying to kill you, even after everything he's done, divorce is still not allowed?" Sibonga said her relationship with her husband had been traumatic and had pushed her to attempt suicide twice. She does not want her children to marry until divorce is allowed. "I told them they can cohabitate and have as many children as they want, but I won't ever consent to them getting married," she said. "I just don't want them to end up like me." The post ‘We want to be free’: Filipinos demand right to divorce appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Race against time for US debt crisis bill in Congress
The bill hammered out by US leaders to prevent the country from a catastrophic default on its debts will face one last hurdle this week: Passing Congress. Top Republicans and Democrats scrambled Monday to secure congressional support for the measure, with President Joe Biden feeling "very good" about its prospects despite having just days left before the government starts running out of money. The deal, finalized Sunday by Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy after weeks of frantic negotiations, faces opposition from the progressive and hard-right wings of their respective parties. Ultra-conservative Republicans feel McCarthy should have secured far deeper spending cuts in exchange for raising the debt ceiling and allowing the government to keep borrowing money. The left wing of the Democratic Party is equally unhappy that Biden agreed to any spending limits at all. The House Rules Committee will meet Tuesday to set the parameters for the upcoming vote, now scheduled for Wednesday. Delay tactics Biden and McCarthy both say they believe the bill will pass the House and then move swiftly to the Senate. "I never say I'm confident what the Congress is going to do. But I feel very good about it," Biden said Monday, adding that he had spoken to lawmakers. But organized dissent could force some nerve-shredding delays. The key deadline is June 5 -- when, according to Treasury estimates, the government will no longer have the funds required to pay all its debts and bills. If that scenario morphs into a full-fledged default, the repercussions would be disastrous for the US and the wider global economy. The basic framework of the deal lifts the federal debt ceiling, which is currently $31.4 trillion, for two years — enough to get past the next presidential election in 2024. In return, the Republicans secured some limits on federal spending over the same period. As they finalized the text Sunday, Biden and McCarthy both went into hard-sell mode to shore up support in their parties. Biden's message to dissident Democrats, he said Monday: "Talk to me." Win, win Both Biden and McCarthy were backed by vocal spin operations insisting the agreement clearly represented a victory for their side. "You want to try to make it look like I made some compromise on the debt ceiling -- I didn't," Biden told reporters. McCarthy, for his part, touted the agreement as a "historic series of wins." But like Biden, McCarthy will have to quell members of his own party who aren't keen on the bill. "I want to raise the debt ceiling. It'd be irresponsible not to do it," Senator Lindsey Graham told Fox News Sunday. "But what I will not do is adopt the Biden defense budget and call it a success," Graham said, calling for bigger increases to the Pentagon's budget than currently agreed. "I will not be intimidated by June 5." In reality, the agreement represents a mutual climb down of sorts from Democratic and Republican negotiators. Biden had initially refused to negotiate over spending issues as a condition for raising the debt ceiling, accusing the Republicans of taking the economy, hostage. And the big cuts that Republicans wanted are not there, although non-defense spending will remain effectively flat next year, and only rise nominally in 2025. McCarthy's wafer-thin majority in the House will require significant Democratic backing to balance out Republican dissent. One Republican tweeted out a vomit emoji in response to the deal, with another calling it "an insult to the American people." At the same time, a member of the House Progressive Caucus, Ro Khanna, said a large number of fellow Democrats were still "in flux as to where they're going to be on this." Democrats hold the majority in the Senate, but individual senators could try and hold up the bill with amendment votes that would bring the process perilously close to the June 5 deadline. One element likely to rile Democratic environmental hawks was the surprise inclusion of a measure to accelerate the completion of an oil pipeline project that has been stalled by green concerns. Both the House and Senate are expected to return on Tuesday, after a long holiday weekend. The post Race against time for US debt crisis bill in Congress appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»