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ADB approves USD 30-mln loan to improve education sector in Bhutan
Manila [Philippines], August 31 (ANI): The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 30 million loan to improve Bhutan's technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system and enhance the skills and employability of its youth. The project will help construct new buildings, workshops, and hostels, and upgrade facilities in technical training institutes in Chumey, Samthang, Rangjung, and the rural developme.....»»
Jose Mari Chan on becoming Phl’s ‘Christmas icon’
While Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is known as one of the most popular Christmas anthems, and South Korean mega group Exo’s “First Snow” revisits South Korean charts as the Christmas season approaches, the Philippines takes pride in Jose Mari Chan, who is known by many as the “Father of Philippine Christmas Music.” As soon as September approaches, Filipinos gear up for the Christmas spirit by starting their Christmas countdown, buying and setting up Christmas decorations, playing holiday playlists, or sharing Christmas-related posts. Known for the songs “Christmas in Our Hearts,” “Mary’s Boy Child,” and more, Jose Mari Chan is considered the Philippines’ Christmas Icon. The Christmas icon In Boy Abunda’s talk show segment, Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, aired on 1 September, the singer said that he was initially confused with Internet memes about him, but it still gave him a good laugh. However, Chan does not want to be called “The King of Christmas” by Filipinos. “Because there is only one King of Christmas and that is our Lord Jesus Christ,” Chan said. He also confessed that he did not expect the massive success of his song “Christmas in Our Hearts,” noting that his producers suggested a romantic Christmas song instead of a Christian-themed song, but suddenly “Christmas in Our Hearts” became a popular hit at radio stations. Although his songs are booming in popularity as the holidays are fast approaching, the singer admitted that he does not earn much from his songs anymore. “The technology has changed: Nobody buys records, nobody buys CDs, nobody buys cassettes anymore,” he said. “We earn a little bit from Spotify, [but] not too much… and also from endorsements and doing shows, that’s all.” Still, Chan is overjoyed that Filipinos continue to associate him with Christmas up to this day. “How nice to be associated with [the] Christmas season. I mean, it’s the biggest season in the Philippines, and it’s the best-loved season.” he said. Despite the busy schedule due to endorsements and upcoming shows until the end of the year, the singer celebrates what truly matters in his life: being married to his wife for more than 50 years and a healthy, beaming grandfather of nine grandchildren. [caption id="attachment_178686" align="aligncenter" width="680"] Jose Mari Chan | SCREENGRAB FROM YOUTUBE.COM/NINONG RY TV[/caption] Jose Mari Chan-approved Christmas content Aside from the Internet memes and posts of Jose Mari Chan peeking through almost everything as a reminder that Christmas is fast approaching, there is already an abundance of content with the 78-year-old singer that will make you feel the Christmas spirit. On 30 August, social media personality Yasmin Asistido, more popularly known as Kween Yasmin, posted a duet with Chan. Both dressed in red, the duo sang the chorus of “Christmas in our Hearts.” As of writing, the video garnered over 120,000 likes and 1.5 million views on Facebook. Meanwhile, chef and social media personality Ninong Ry and Chan collaborated in a 24-minute-vlog titled, “JOSE MARI CHAN x NINONG RY — ANO PA ANG KULANG SA PASKO?” on 1 September. In the vlog, the two prepared staple Noche Buena dishes such as macaroni salad, roast chicken, and embutido, while discussing what matters the most during Christmas — keeping the tradition and spending the holiday with our family and loved ones. Chan is also set to appear on the weekend variety show ASAP Natin ‘To along with Jamie Rivera, the World Hip Hop Dance Championship 2023 Adult Division winners, the cast of the youth-oriented show Senior High and more. Some might say that Christmas does not feel like how it used to be in the past due to the advent of social media, the loss of someone special, the continuous deterioration of quality of life and the economy, or how it becomes a reminder that we are all growing older and we have adult responsibilities to face. Still, entertainers like Jose Mari Chan give us a wave of nostalgia for what Christmas should truly feel like — that the holidays should feel warm and festive even in the smallest of ways. Celebrating Christmas does not have to be glamorous every time, but it should always feel like a comforting hug, an exciting tune to a familiar Christmas song, or a hopeful reminder that we all made it through the end of the year.ac The post Jose Mari Chan on becoming Phl’s ‘Christmas icon’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DTI, DA to tap LGUs in monitoring rice prices
The Department of Trade and Industry, together with the Department of Agriculture, will collaborate with local government units to reactivate their Local Price Coordinating Councils to ensure that the price ceiling on regular and well-milled rice is implemented, Malacañang said on Saturday. Malacañang said Executive Order No. 39, which mandates a price ceiling of P41 for one kilogram of regular-milled rice and P45 for well-milled rice, will be effective on Tuesday, 5 September. The special and premium rice will have no price ceilings. In a statement, DTI Secretary Fred Pascual said they recognize the urgency of addressing the escalating rice prices in the market. “In parallel, it is imperative to maintain stringent oversight over rice pricing and supply to preclude any potential hoarding and price manipulation by traders and retailers,” he added. Pascual noted that the DTI will tap the Philippine Competition Commission to undertake measures against rice cartels and other entities that manipulate the increasing prices of rice in the country. “To fortify our monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, the DTI will mobilize its price monitors and engage with Local Government Units to activate their Local Price Coordinating Councils,” DTI secretary Fred Pascual said in a statement on Saturday. Pascual emphasized that everyone’s participation is needed to “build a more equitable and prosperous nation.” Hence, Public are urged to report immediately to the DTI any instances of overpricing or hoarding through their “One-DTI hotline” at 1-384, or e-mail at ConsumerCare@dti.gov.ph, or may send their complaints about the executive order through the government’s 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Center. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. approved on 31 August the recommendation of the DA and the DTI for the mandated price ceilings on regular and well-milled rice. Pascual said that the ceilings were computed based on the average rice prices for the last three months (May, June, and July) following Section 8 of Republic Act No. 7581, or the Price Act, and confirmed by cost analysis. The post DTI, DA to tap LGUs in monitoring rice prices appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BCDA welcomes amended charter
State-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority, or BCDA, welcomed the approval of House Bill 8505, citing the impact of the measure in the development of the economic zones managed by the state-run firm, and in beefing up the state coffers to support the military’s pension fund. Approved on third and final reading last 22 August, House Bill 8505 is a consolidated substitute bill of Pampanga Representatives Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales that seeks to amend Republic Act 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992. The bill ensures the continuity of the BCDA’s function as a builder of great cities and a prime mover of national development, while also helping the state-run firm conquer legislative hurdles that could restrict the full development of its properties, from Fort Bonifacio in Metro Manila to Poro Point in La Union. “Our economic landscape is evolving at a tremendous pace, thus the need for BCDA to take big, bold moves to adapt with these changes and deliver the socioeconomic transformation we envision for our development areas in Clark,” BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua Bigcang said. “The bill will address gaps in the current charter and we couldn’t be more happy to express our gratitude to our friends in the House of Representatives for passing this bill on third and final reading,” Bingcang added. Under the proposed bill, the BCDA’s corporate term will be extended for another 50 years from its current remaining corporate life of 19 years. This extension will increase the confidence of investors when transacting with BCDA, as well as allow BCDA to continue its support to the AFP Modernization Program. Bill to raise capital to P400B The bill will also increase the authorized capital of the BCDA to P400 billion from P100 billion. Lastly, the bill seeks to convert five percent of BCDA’s economic zones to freehold status from leasehold, authorizing the BCDA to sell these properties for residential purposes. At present, lands within BCDA economic zones are only available on leaseholds, preventing the entry of affordable housing developers. Converting portions of the ecozones to freehold will liberalize the residential market for an average Filipino and allow full ownership of the property. “Once this is implemented, workers within our economic zones will be able to have their own homes, be closer to their jobs and live comfortably with their families,” Bingcang said. The BCDA estimates that this provision will free up 1,856 hectares of land, which can potentially generate P451.26 billion up to P1.45 trillion in revenues. This revenue may be earmarked for the military pension fund, a priority of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. The post BCDA welcomes amended charter appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pacerm-1 DPO secures SEC nod
The Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, has greenlighted the direct public offering or DPO of Pacerm-1 Energy Corp. that could help the company generate P15.89 million in additional funds. The industry watchdog, in its meeting last 24 August, approved the registration statement of the company covering 250,000 common shares. Based on the latest timetable submitted by the company, the DPO will run from 1 September to 30 November. The shares may be sold to any person, partnership, cooperative, corporation, or trust account. Conditions must be met According to the SEC, Pacerm-1 Energy still needs to comply with certain remaining requirements before its DPO plan pushes through. Pacerm-1 Energy will offer to the public 26,891 common shares at P2,100 per share. The company aims to utilize the P15.89 million proceeds to pay for its long-term loans. As mandated by the Energy Regulatory Commission, the company should offer not less than 15 percent of its outstanding capital stock to the public. Pacerm-1 Energy is a company based in Misamis Oriental that primarily generates power through the use of diesel power or other non-renewable and renewable energy resources such as wind, solar, ocean, and biomass energy. Energy companies have been tapping the equities market to raise funds for expansion, particularly for expanding their renewable energy portfolios. Among the latest energy firms to debut at the local bourse was the Tiu Family’s Repower Energy Development Corp. or REDC, a subsidiary of Pure Energy Holdings Corp. It was also the third maiden offering for the year after renewable power firm Alternergy Holdings and computer gadgets retailer Upson International Corp. The post Pacerm-1 DPO secures SEC nod appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go assists ‘sakadas’ in Antique
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s team visited Sibalom, Antique on Friday, 25 August, to provide assistance to sugar migrant workers, or sakadas. The said relief activity not only highlighted his dedication to public service but also underscored the importance of strengthening the agricultural sector in the country. Recognizing the important role of farmers in upholding food security, Senator Go, who is a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, has consistently championed the reinforcement of agricultural support systems. He stood as one of the authors behind Republic Act No. 11901, which broadened the scope of the financing system for agriculture, fisheries, and rural development. Go also co-sponsored and co-authored in the Senate the measure that became RA 11953, also known as the New Agrarian Emancipation Act. The law condones loans incurred by agrarian reform beneficiaries, including interests, penalties, and surcharges. Furthermore, the senator also filed SBN 2117, which aims to provide full crop insurance coverage for agrarian reform beneficiaries, as well as SBN 2118 which aims to provide better insurance coverage and services to farmers and help mitigate the impact of natural disasters on the agricultural sector, if enacted into law. "Nais kong hikayatin ang lahat ng mga lingkod-bayan na makiisa sa pagtulong sa ating mga magsasaka. Ang kanilang mahalagang papel sa ating pagkain at ekonomiya ay di-matatawaran. Suportahan natin sila sa pamamagitan ng pagpapalakas ng kanilang sektor at pagpapalaganap ng mga programa na tutugon sa kanilang mga pangangailangan. Sa pagkakaisa, makakamit natin ang mas maunlad at masaganang buhay para sa ating mga magsasaka,” Go urged in his video message. Go’s team, together with the team of Governor Rhodora Cadiao, held the distribution at the University of Antique, where 1,000 sakadas received masks and shirts from Go while select recipients received shoes, mobile phones, and balls for basketball. The Department of Social Welfare and Development also provided financial assistance. Continuing his message, Go expressed his concern that access to medical assistance programs remains a pressing issue in many regions, especially in rural areas. It is for this reason that the senator mentioned that there is a Malasakit Center at Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital in San Jose de Buenavista if they may need medical assistance from the government. Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from DSWD, Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These one-stop shops aim to support poor and indigent patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Go is the principal author and sponsor of RA 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019 which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. According to DOH, the Malasakit Centers program has already benefitted over seven million Filipinos, with 158 Malasakit Centers established all over the country. The senator then mentioned that there will also be a Super Health Center set to be established in the town. Super Health Centers offer basic health services, including database management, outpatient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy, and an ambulatory surgical unit. Other services available include eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) care, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine, which enables remote diagnosis and treatment of patients. DOH has identified more locations in Antique to build Super Health Centers, in addition to Sibalom. These include Culasi and San Jose de Buenavista. Acknowledging the necessity for specialized care, Go has championed the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers. These centers focus on specific medical fields, ensuring that patients receive expert care without the need to travel long distances to urban centers. In the Senate, Go served as a principal sponsor and co-author of the Regional Specialty Centers Act. This legislation has been recently approved into law by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, also supported the acquisition of a motor vehicle in Sibalom, multi cabs in Laua-an, and an ambulance unit in San Jose. The senator likewise supported the expansion of a water system in Libertad, improvement of the Tobias Fornier Municipal Hall, flood control projects in Hamtic, San Jose and Laua-an, construction of solar streetlights in various barangays in Barbaza, improvement of a public park in Belison, construction of a covered court in San Remigio, construction of a bridge in Patnongon, and road improvements in Laua-an, San Remigio, Sebaste, Sibalom, and Valderrama. On 23 August, Go’s team was in Tobias Fornier, where they provided assistance to the beneficiaries of the medical and dental mission held in the town. The post Bong Go assists ‘sakadas’ in Antique appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Senators grill Navotas cops over teenage boy’s death
Senators on Tuesday grilled Northern Police District personnel involved in the killing of 17-year-old Jemboy Baltazar, who was shot while he was boarding his boat in Navotas City. During the resumption of the investigation by the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs into the killing of Baltazar, lawmakers quizzed policemen, specifically about the absence of paraffin tests on individuals involved in the operation. Juanito Arabejo, who heads the Navotas City police station investigation and detective management section, said he did not conduct a paraffin test on the six policemen who shot Baltazar in a case of mistaken identity on 2 August based on his "sound judgment." A paraffin test is done to determine whether or not a person has fired a gun. "Is that your discretion not to subject them to paraffin test or [did] they refuse?" Senator Ronald "Bato” dela Rosa, who presided over the hearing, asked Arabejo. Responding to Dela Rosa’s query, Arabejo said, "That was based on our sound judgment and in good faith, considering the direct testimony of the eyewitnesses is sufficient to establish the guilt of these six suspects." This prompted lawmakers to ask former Navotas City police chief Allan Umipig whether or not he told Arabejo to conduct paraffin tests. According to Umipig, he ordered Arabejo to subject policemen involved in the operation to paraffin tests during their emergency meeting on 3 August, which Arabejo refuted. Dela Rosa then ordered Umpig to contact other policemen who were present at their 3 August meeting to validate his claim. Minutes later, Navotas City Police Captain Anthony Mondejar, and Police Major Edwin Fuertes, joined the hearing and validated Umipig’s claim. Due to the alleged inconsistency in his statements, Senator Risa Hontiveros, on behalf of Senator Raffy Tulfo, made the motion to cite Arabejo in contempt. “On behalf of Senator Raffy Tulfo and the guidance of the chairperson, I move to cite [for] contempt Police Captain Juanito Arabejo,” Hontiveros said. Dela Rosa, who was evidently fuming over Arabejo’s “annoying smirks,” approved Hontiveros’s motion. This is not the first time Dela Rosa’s panel ordered a cite in contempt of individuals involved in Baltazar’s killing. Last week, the Senate panel also held Navotas City police officers Captain Mark Joseph Carpio and Staff Sergeant Gerry Maliban in contempt for allegedly lying and evading lawmakers’ questions. Carpio was the leader of the team in Baltazar’s fatal shooting. The post Senators grill Navotas cops over teenage boy’s death appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AFP: PBBM, Australia back joint patrols in WPS
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is backing Philippine-Australia joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea as part of promoting an “open and free” Indo-Pacific Region. This was bared by Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. in a radio interview on Monday, noting that the plans for this endeavor are now ongoing after Marcos and the Australian government gave their approval. "Pinaplano pa rin ho natin 'yung mga detalye pero in essence ay na-aprove na po ng ating Pangulo at ng liderato ng Australia. This is to ensure na we maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific, kasama po tayo dyan dahil isinisulong po natin 'yung rules-based international order (We are now planning the details, but in essence the President and the Australian leadership have already approved it, and this will be done so that we can maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. This is part of our efforts to promote a rules-based international order)," Brawner said. Both countries are currently conducting bilateral Cooperative Amphibious Serial drills also known as “Exercise ALON”, with 700 AFP personnel and 1, 200 members of the Australian Defense Force, assisted by 150 officers of United States Marine Corps, participating. In a joint statement on the sidelines of Exercise ALON released on 25 August, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Australia Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Richard Marles said the Philippines and Australia mutually "discussed the importance of all countries in the region exercising their agency in support of an Indo-Pacific region that is based on sovereignty, international law, and ASEAN Centrality.” Teodoro and Marles mutually agreed on the importance of all states operating safely and professionally, while respecting and adhering to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. “We reaffirmed our strong support of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal Award. In line with this, the Philippines and Australia have "recommitted to planning bilateral joint patrols in the South China Sea/ West Philippine Sea and other areas of mutual interest,” the joint statement further read. Brawner had previously said the Philippines is only exercising its military diplomacy when it comes to entering military-to-military activities with its allies and partners across the globe. In his previous interview, Brawner said the AFP will be exploring chances to heighten the country’s military presence in the WPS by conducting increased maritime patrols. “As of present, we are conducting such ourselves, unilateral patrols of the area. But we are exploring all possibilities because we very well know that when it comes to our own national defense, we really cannot do it by ourselves. We really have to depend on our allies, our partners,” he said. The post AFP: PBBM, Australia back joint patrols in WPS appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Road rage driver a dismissed QC cop
The driver of the vehicle, who identified himself as Wilfredo "Willie" Gonzales, THE DAILY TRIBUNE found, is a 63-year old former Quezon City policeman assigned at the QCPD Station 9 in Anonas. Gonzales was ordered dismissed by the Office of the Ombudsman along with ten others including his station commander in 2000 for releasing two Chinese nationals in exchange for P650,000. The two Chinese nationals, Jimmy Tan and Albert Koo were found to be carrying some 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine hydrochloride when they were arrested. "Medyo may hangin yan," a retired batch mate of Gonzales told this reporter. Mayor Belmonte urges the cyclist to file complaint For her part, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte urges the bicycle rider whom Gonzales had assaulted, to come into the open and file the necessary case against the road rager. "I believe this culture of impunity is not acceptable in QC and I have a duty and responsibility to maintain peace and order in our city and send a strong message that acts such as that committed by Willy Gonzalez shall not be tolerated and that he must be held accountable," Belmonte said. "However, I’d like to stress that without the cooperation of the complainant, there is only so much that can be done. Therefore we are appealing to the complainant to come forward so that Willy Gonzalez, whom I consider a menace to society, is held accountable. He is not only an irresponsible gun owner with anger management issues, but a danger to our people," she added. Gonzalez not the registered owner of vehicle The driver of the red sedan who figured in a road rage incident with a bicycle rider in Quezon City is not the registered owner of the vehicle, Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II disclosed on Monday, 28 August. Citing a report submitted to his office by LTO-National Capital Region Director Roque Verzosa III, Mendoza said that the registered owner of the KIA Rio with license plate ULQ 802 is still the subject of the Show Cause Order wherein the car owner was directed to appear before the LTO investigators on August 31. The same report was already submitted to the office of Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista. “Since the driver involved already surrendered to the police, our records revealed that the person who appeared in a press briefing at Camp Karingal is not the registered owner of the vehicle,” said Mendoza. “Kaya tuloy ang Show Cause Order upang mabigyan tayo ng paliwanag ng registered owner kung bakit iba ang nagmamaneho ng sasakyan niya. Gusto nating malinawan kung naibenta na ba niya ito, ipinahiram lang o kung ano pang circumstances kung bakit iba ang nagmamaneho nang mangyari ang viral na insidenteng ito,” he added. Mendoza explained that there are two violations that appeared to have been committed in relation to the Republic Act 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code as a result of the incident between the driver of the KIA Rio and the bicycle rider on August 8—the first is Section 27 (Improper Person to Operate a Vehicle) and Section 48 (Reckless Driving). He said the registered owner of the vehicle was directed to submit a notarized affidavit explaining why sanctions should not be imposed in connection with the incident. Failure to do so on the given time, date, and place in the Show Cause Order, Mendoza said, will be taken by the LTO as a waiver for the agency to decide on the matter based on the available pieces of evidence. “Pending the resolution of this case, I have already approved the recommendation to place this KIA Rio with license plate ULQ 802 to be placed under alarm effective immediately,” said Mendoza. The post Road rage driver a dismissed QC cop appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go inspects Siniloan isolation facility
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, personally inspected the isolation facility at the Siniloan Infirmary Hospital in Siniloan, Laguna on Friday, 25 August. Go, also the vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has supported the said project during the Duterte administration. The senator, an adopted son of CALABARZON, was also joined by Vice Governor Karen Agapay, Mayor Patrick Go, Vice Mayor Carla Valderrama, and Councilors Carl Anthony Puño, Regie De Jesus, and Councilor Ronald Valeroso, among others. "Maraming salamat po Kuya Bong. Ang bayan po ng Siniloan ay taos-pusong nagpapasalamat sa inyong pagdalaw at kami po ay binibigyan niyo ng suporta. Ang sarili naming Infirmary Hospital ay parang Malasakit Center na rin dahil ang mga kapos nating kababayan na lumalapit doon ay nabibigyan natin ng direktang libreng pag-gagamot. Kaya Kuya Bong, maraming maraming salamat po. Talagang 'Go cares'," Mayor Go expressed. Go’s visit not only underscored his dedication to serving the Filipino people but also highlighted the critical need to bolster the nation's health sector, particularly in the wake of the devastating effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the inspection, the senator engaged in conversations with the local officials and even healthcare workers to gain firsthand insights into the challenges faced by the health sector. “Sinusuportahan naman natin ang inyong Infirmary Hospital dito po sa Siniloan at gaya ng sinabi ko kung ano po ang makakatulong sa Siniloan sa pag-unlad ng inyong bayan at makatulong po sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan dito po sa Siniloan ay handa po akong tumulong sa abot ng aking makakaya ay tutulong po ako dito po sa inyong bayan,” said Go in an interview after his visit. Go has consistently stressed the importance of continuous investments in healthcare infrastructure, personnel, and equipment especially in the community level. He pointed out that the pandemic had exposed vulnerabilities in the health sector and underscored the need for proactive measures to ensure that the country is better equipped to handle future health crises. Through a series of innovative initiatives, including Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers (SHCs), and Regional Specialty Centers (RSCs), Go underscored his unwavering commitment to ensuring that all Filipinos have access to quality medical assistance and services. Malasakit Centers, a brainchild of Senator Go, act as one-stop shops that consolidate the available medical assistance programs of various government agencies, ensuring that poor and indigent patients can readily access the support they need. Since its inception in 2018, Malasakit Centers have provided invaluable assistance to more than seven million patients, alleviating the financial burdens that often accompany medical treatments. There are currently 158 operational centers nationwide, including those at Laguna Medical Center in Sta. Cruz and San Pablo City General Hospital in San Pablo City. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. Meanwhile, Go’s vision of a more improved healthcare sector extends to the establishment of SHCs, which aim to offer comprehensive healthcare services to communities, especially in underserved areas. Such centers are set to be established in cities such as Calamba, Cabuyao, Sta. Rosa, San Pedro, San Pablo, and Biñan, as well as in the towns of Alaminos, Mabitac, Calauan, Los Baños, and Sta. Maria. The SHCs will offer a wide range of services, including 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, through which remote diagnosis and treatment of patients are made possible. Through the concerted efforts of the Department of Health (DOH) and lawmakers, adequate funding has been allocated in the national budget for the establishment of 307 SHCs in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. “Ang maganda po diyan early detection, primary care, checkup, konsulta. Diyan ho kayo magpakonsulta sa Super Health Center na itinatayo sa inyong lugar. Early detection (para) hindi lumala ang sakit. It will help decongest sa hospitals, madi-decongest po ang mga hospitals dahil diyan na po gagamutin sa mga Super Health Center,’ Go said. Recognizing the need for specialized care, Go has also championed the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers. These centers focus on specific medical fields, ensuring that patients receive expert care without the need to travel long distances to urban centers. In the Senate, Go principally sponsored and is one of the authors of Senate Bill No. 2212, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which was recently approved and signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. into law. “Pangatlong prayoridad ko po bilang chairman ng Committee on Health ito pong establishing regional specialty center. Maglalagay po ng mga specialty center sa mga DOH regional hospital sa buong Pilipinas. It’s a multiyear plan po. Halimbawa, (kung may problema sa) heart, kidney, lung, neonatal, mental, ito pong mga ortho sa mga may karamdaman sa buto, cancer. Ilalagay na po sa lahat ng DOH regional hospital sa buong Pilipinas para ilapit po natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan,” explained Go. “Ako po ang (isa sa mga) author at (principal) sponsor niyan sa Senado at pasado na ‘yan, napirmahan na po ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos dahil priority po ito ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos. Establishing specialty center in every DOH regional hospital all over the country,” he added. On the same day, Go personally inspected the town’s Sports Complex and provided assistance to 500 struggling residents. The post Bong Go inspects Siniloan isolation facility appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Barangay chair, 6 others slapped with graft raps
A Barangay Kaligayahan kagawad (village councilor) slapped his six colleagues and their chairman with graft and falsification charges before the Office of the Ombudsman Thursday, 24 August. Barangay Kaligayahan Kagawad Allan Butch Francisco Jr. in his complaint obtained by DAILY TRIBUNE, said barangay chairman Alfredo ‘Freddy’ Roxas, kagawad Jim Mahusay, kagawad Alexander Rivera, kagawad Perla Adea Mallari, kagawad Arnel Gabito, kagawad Dionisio Gascon, kagawad Sofronio Grimaldo, and barangay secretary Josephine Penarada violated Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, Falsification of Public Documents, and Grave Misconduct for faking an approved resolution. Francisco claimed the said barangay officials made it appear that the Barangay Resolution No. 087 Series of 2023, “Interposing no objection to the application of M.M. Ledesma Laboratories Corp., located at Zabarte Ext.,” was approved on 15 April 2023. It was also certified by Penarada. However, Francisco explained that while they agreed to establish that regular session of their council shall be held every 1st and 2nd Saturdays of each month, 15 April fell on the 3rd Saturday, Roxas postponed it to give way for the Barangay Assembly Day held also on that day. “No session was actually conducted on that day,” Francisco said in his complaint referring to the date the said resolution was passed. He added that neither the supposed notice for the regular session was nor a notice for special session was issued by Roxas for the resolution to be passed. Roxas earlier was also charged of violating the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act by Hernando Compendioa, barangay watchman, who suffered a stroke, and was told by the chieftain to stop working, but later learned that his name was still on the payroll list but not receiving a single centavo. Meanwhile, Graft and Falsification charges were also hurled against Barangay Pasong Tamo chairwoman Mae Tagle before the Office of the Ombudsman by three of her own village staff over a dozen “ghost employees.” Tagle had just been served with another six months suspension for leasing the space barangay pharmacy to private fish and meat vendor by the Special Investigation Committee of the City Council. Florence Andre Fabre, Ruvelinda dela Isla and Mary Lyne Casinos showed that Tagle hired them upon assuming her post on 1 July 2022. Tagle became the village chief because of rule of succession for being the number one kagawad (barangay councilor) when then barangay chairman Banjo Pilar won as a councilor in May 2022 polls. Fabre in their joint affidavit of complaint averred that he was a book keeper and assistant of barangay assistant treasurer Gloria Sareño who was in-charged of preparing payroll for the entire staff of their village. He said that from July to September 2022 nothing unusual happened in their payroll, until came October 2022, when there were 10 other names added to the list of their payroll, and was instructed by Tagle’s daughter Mary Jean, who acted as their admin aide IV, to also sign on behalf of the additional names on the list and be quiet about it. Fabre also found out that one of the names added was Tagle’s maid Melina Barcelo with a work item as “contact tracer” receiving a monthly salary of P6,500. To his estimate, about a million pesos has been pocketed by Tagle since that month until April 2023, as the names added in their payroll list were not really receiving their salary. Dela Isla, on the other hand, worked as an assistant trainer along with her daughter Florbhy who worked as a traffic enforcer from 1 July 2022 to 30 November, 2022. But the younger Dela Isla had resigned the following month. To her surprise, Dela Isla learned that the name of her daughter was still listed in their payroll when Tagle got her first suspension on June 2023, pocketing her daughter’s salary for six months. Casinos, on another end, who was also hired by Tagle as an Auxiliary member of the village watchmen team, also learned that even her husband’s name who was working at the nearby Himlayang Filipino was also listed as “ghost employee.” The three complainants also attached the affidavit of Daniel Tecson whose name was also listed as “ghost employees” who did not even received a single centavo from Tagle, when they filed the charges on 13 June 2023 for fear of being implicated in Tagle’s scheme. The post Barangay chair, 6 others slapped with graft raps appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Digitalization: Walking the talk
In our 28 July article, we spoke about the President’s State of the Nation Address or SoNA. If you recall, he ended the SoNA by stating, “I know that the state of the nation is sound and is improving. Dumating na po ang Bagong Pilipinas.” Among the pillars he mentioned to support and substantiate is the digitalization efforts of this administration. We lifted a couple of direct quotes from the SONA, but we wish to highlight a couple more for today’s article, namely: “Digitalization is the call of today; not the call of the future — but of the present. It is here. It is needed, and it is needed today.” “Digitalization will support the government’s data-driven and science-based planning and decision-making. It is the greatest, most powerful tool, not just to improve the ease of doing business, but also against many forms of graft and corruption.” Just last Tuesday, 22 August, a Department of Budget and Management press release shared the belief that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. fully supports the creation of an e-marketplace where government entities may directly procure products for their needs, like online shopping platforms. In this, PBBM is hitting two birds with one stone. Not only is he advancing his call for digitalization, but he is also putting into practice the policies behind Republic Act 11032, also known as the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018. In addition, there are other points related to this that are worth highlighting. DBM again has shared the very encouraging possibilities they are exploring and working on. It was explained that the idea is to help get rid of the lengthy process of public bidding for certain products, as government entities can buy straight from the virtual market. To ensure the quality of the merchandise to be bought and the dependability of their suppliers, there will be a mechanism to qualify and identify which are the right products and suppliers that will be placed in this marketplace. Whatever and whoever they shall be, it is expected that the featured products will be of excellent quality, are available, and fitting to the real and varied needs of the government. The push for digitalization has nowadays become more important given the government’s desire, for one, to realistically address the complex issues surrounding the Procurement Act which has long been due for review and needed amendments. In maximizing existing digital platforms, how do you improve the processes related to them to ensure that the output they generate is helpful and true to the objectives they seek to attain? Take just one example the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System, the online system that the government is now using as a central portal for all procurement information and its activities. Must certainty of its processes remain or now be modified? The basic requirement for any business entity to be able to participate in the conduct of a government bidding is registration and membership with the PhilGEPS. In registering, all the necessary documents to qualify for membership are submitted, and once on-board the business entity is already presumed to have all its documents verified, approved, and in order. Or at least that is how it should be. So, it begs the question, “Why do you require these business entities, during actual bidding time, to submit their documents again? Will this not just lead to delays, excessive costs, and, worse, opportunities for corruption? Incidentally, when business entities encounter runaway costs, you can be sure that the ultimate party to suffer is the people. All that being said, it remains the duty of the government to ease doing business and fight graft and corruption. PBBM is keen on reducing the burden in certain, if not all, government transactions, and digitalization is one of the promising ways that can now be employed to successfully reach this goal. Digitalization will reduce human intervention, and this will in turn reduce errors and the chances of wrongdoing. Most of the negative comments surrounding elected officials are that they do not deliver the things they had promised during their campaign. It is indeed easy to forget once you have been sworn into office. However, PBBM has displayed consistency and dedication to the goals he mentioned when he took his oath. In this, he is not simply talking the talk; he is veritably walking the talk! The post Digitalization: Walking the talk appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New laws on military vets, small businesses, cultural heritage signed
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed three laws that will help disabled military veterans, spur the country's economic expansion and strengthen the nation's cultural heritage protection, the Presidential Communications Office said on Friday. Executive Secretary Bersamin, through a series of transmittal letters, will inform Congress on 29 August about the approval of Republic Act Nos. 11958, 11960 and 11961. "A series of transmittal letters separately addressed to Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez were already signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin last Aug. 24, stating the three laws that were approved by President Marcos,” the PCO said in a statement. A veteran who is handicapped because of illness, disease, wounds or injuries received in the line of service will receive a monthly disability pension under RA 11958 at the amounts specified by the new law. For veterans of the armed forces who became disabled while serving, the present disability base rate of P1,000 would be increased to P4,500. Additionally, veterans who currently receive P1,700 per month with the highest level of disability would now receive P10,000, a rise of P8,300 or 488 percent, while the P500 monthly pension for the spouse and each unmarried minor kid will also be modified to P1,000. By promoting inclusive local economic activity and fostering national economic progress, RA 11960 aims to create a self-sufficient and independent national economy that is successfully governed by Filipinos. Under RA 11960, the Department of Trade and Industry and other organizations, including the Cooperative Development Authority and the Department of Agriculture, are mandated to work together to provide adequate and effective support services for local micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. Marcos also approved RA 11961, which would improve cultural mapping for the preservation and protection of the nation's cultural legacy. The post New laws on military vets, small businesses, cultural heritage signed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gov’t seeks Indon capital
Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno presented to Indonesia’s business community the Philippine economic plans for securing investments in infrastructure, energy and technology. In a statement by the Department of Finance on Thursday, it said Diokno conducted the talk in Jakarta City on Wednesday ahead of the 10th ASEAN Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting from 24 to 25 August. The listeners included members of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Philippine Business Club Indonesia, and officials of foreign embassies in Jakarta. Diokno said the Philippine lawmakers are now studying all measures for faster public-private partnerships or PPPs as the Marcos administration aims to build 197 infrastructure flagship projects, including railways, airports and water management, among others. PPP crucial “The PPP Act, which is currently pending in the Senate, consolidates all legal frameworks on PPP and creates a unified system for investors to refer to when engaging in PPP projects,” DoF said. To build more capital for Philippine infrastructure development and diversify investment channels, Diokno said government agencies are now crafting the rules and regulations of the Maharlika Investment Fund. “This is the Philippines’ first sovereign investment fund that will serve as a platform for investors to engage in direct equity investments in Philippine ventures,” he said. Diokno said both the legislative proposal and newly approved sovereign fund will support economic expansion from liberalized investment laws passed by the previous Duterte administration. Diokno shared amendments to the Public Service Act which now allows full foreign ownership from 40 percent previously of various businesses, such as airlines and telecommunications. Amid growing concerns with climate change, the finance chief said this applies also to renewable energy facilities, such as solar plants. Indonesia, along with China and India, is among the world’s largest exporter of coal, according to the International Energy Agency. However, Indonesia vowed to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2060, while it is 2050 for the Philippines. To ensure efficient management and profitability of infrastructure, Diokno said the government also eased processes for foreign investors under the Build-Operate-Transfer Law. “To help foster the development of high quality, modern, and sustainable infrastructure in the country, we wasted no time in building a fertile business and investment ecosystem for private players,” Diokno said. The post Gov’t seeks Indon capital appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Probe starts against Indian-Pinoy trader
The Department of Justice yesterday started the preliminary investigation of multiple counts of falsification of public documents charges against controversial and high-profile businessman Rajiv Chandiramani and several others. The complaints which fall under Paragraph 1 of Article 172, in relation to Article 171, of the Revised Penal Code, were filed by Rajiv’s brother Amith, who claimed that the suspects connived with each other and through deceit and machinations succeeded in depriving him of his inheritance from their father Prem, amounting to billions of pesos in the form of real estate properties and business interests. To recall, Amith earlier this year lodged a complaint before the National Bureau of Investigation which subsequently conducted a thorough and comprehensive probe on the matter. After finding the complaints were full of merits and have a basis in law, the NBI sent a transmittal to the DoJ on 3 August this year, recommending that a preliminary investigation be initiated against Rajiv and the other accused. In a transmittal to Department of Justice Prosecutor General Benedicto A. Malcontento dated 3 August 3, 2023, NBI National Capital Region Director Rommel Vallejos, recommended the filing of seven counts of violation of Paragraph 1 of Article 172, in relation to Article 171 of the Revised Penal Code as amended, against businessman Rajiv Chandiramani. NBI Director Medardo Delemos approved the recommendation. Also charged with Rajiv were his mother Puspha and their cohorts Janet Cardinal, Maria Anita Turqueza, Rommel Olaybar, Christina Gutierrez and Angelito Manuel. “Respectfully transmitted herewith for Preliminary Investigation is the result of the investigation conducted by Special Investigator Ferdinand A. Manuel of the National Bureau of Investigation, national Capital Region Taft Avenue, Manila,” the letter of transmittal read. The post Probe starts against Indian-Pinoy trader appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Makati City scores anew
Six days after taking over the management and supervision of the 14 schools affected by the dragging boundary dispute between Makati and Taguig City, the Department of Education gave Makati City the go-signal to distribute school supplies to the affected students in 10 EMBO barangays the Supreme Court had ordered transferred to Taguig City. In a letter to Makati City Mayor Abby Binay dated 22 August, DepEd Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Michael Wesley Poa said Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte had approved the former’s request to distribute the school supplies, including the use of the school facilities. Binay earlier wrote to Vice President Duterte seeking permission to distribute school supplies in the 14 public schools to alleviate the financial burden on parents who would otherwise have to purchase new school supplies. “On behalf of the city government and all the intended beneficiaries in the 14 public schools, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte. We are thankful that she has the best interest of the students at heart in making a prudent and just decision,” Binay said, adding that the distribution would go on until 29 August when classes start. The 14 public schools are Fort Bonifacio Elementary School, Cembo Elementary School, South Cembo Elementary School, Pitogo Elementary School, East Rembo Elementary School, Rizal Elementary School, Comembo Elementary School, West Rembo Elementary School, Pembo Elementary School, Makati Science High School, Benigno “Ninoy” S. Aquino High School, Tibagan High School, Fort Bonifacio High School and Pitogo High School. Parents, school kids cheer Mayor Binay, accompanied by her husband, Makati 2nd District Rep. Luis Campos, distributed school supplies at Pembo Elementary School and Pitogo High School yesterday. School supplies will be given to all 45,000 students in the 14 public schools in 10 former barangays within Fort Bonifacio — Pembo, Comembo, Cembo, South Cembo, West Rembo, East Rembo, Pitogo, Rizal, Northside and Southside. Upon arriving at the Pembo Elementary School, Binay and her entourage were cheered by the parents and students who had been waiting for her since 10 a.m. Her arrival at 2 p.m. elicited applause and shouts of “Abby, Abby” from the crowd, many of whom were crying, including the children who rushed to hug the mayor. The parents were particularly ecstatic because they said the school supplies they received from Taguig were not comparable to what they received from Makati. Package contents Under the expanded Project FREE (Free Relevant and Excellent Education) of Makati, public school students from kindergarten to senior high school, including Special Education students in elementary and high school, receive school uniforms and supplies. Students in all levels each receive school uniforms, PE T-shirts and jogging pants. School bags, caps and anti-dengue kits are also given to kindergarten pupils. Elementary students each receive a pair of black leather shoes, three pairs of white socks, Randoseru bags (Grades 1 and 4), dengue kits, and school supplies consisting of 10 notebooks, five intermediate pads, and five ballpoint pens and pencils. Junior and senior high school students receive black shoes and socks, and the same school supplies package given to elementary students, with a Math graphing notebook added. Grades 11 and 12 students also get a jacket with hoodie. For SPED students in elementary and high school, the city provides a school supplies package, uniforms, leather shoes and three pairs of socks, and anti-dengue kits for elementary SPED. Schools to be rented out Asked what would happen to the 14 schools formerly under Makati City, Binay said they would be rented out to Taguig as the former held the titles to them. In a Facebook post, Binay said there was a “last-minute attempt” by the Taguig City government to halt the distribution even if Makati had written authorization to carry it out. Taguig City has also started distributing school packages to the students of the city, including those at the EMBO schools. Duterte issued DepEd Order No. 023 last week, titled “Assumption of authority of the Department of Education over the 14 public schools affected by the Supreme Court decision in G.R. No. 235316.” According to the order, DepEd is mandated to promote every Filipino’s right to accessible, equitable, and quality education which is consistent with its mandate to provide a safe and enabling environment for learners, teachers, and personnel. Duterte, in her order, said that relative to the SC’s final and executory decision in the case titled Municipality of Makati vs Municipality of Taguig (G.R. No. 235316), the Department of is cognizant of the increasing tension present in the 14 schools affected by the ruling, that caused uncertainty as to the peaceful and orderly reopening of schools on 29 August 2023. It further stated that in the pursuit of protecting the best interest and welfare of the learners, teachers, and non-teaching personnel, “the Office of the Secretary shall directly supervise the management and administration of all 14 schools, pending a transition plan, effective immediately.” Duterte created a transition committee composed of the regional director (assigned outside of the National Capital Region); DepEd Schools Division Superintendent of Taguig-Pateros; the DepEd Schools Superintendent of Makati City; City Legal Officer of Makati and City Legal Officer of Taguig. Binay has since stood her ground that all 14 public schools are titled to Makati City and therefore Taguig City has no jurisdiction over it, though Mayor Lani Cayetano refuted the claim saying it was included in the SC order that is final and executory. The post Makati City scores anew appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mayor Abby lauds DepEd intervention
Makati City Mayor Abby Binay expressed her gratitude to Vice President and Department of Education Secretary Sara Duterte yesterday for her timely intervention in the management and supervision of the 14 public schools caught in the territorial dispute between Makati City and the City of Taguig. Binay said that amid the tension, she is very thankful to Duterte for being the voice of reason on the issue and is very grateful that her office will directly manage and supervise the 14 schools in the 10 barangays affected by the decision of the Supreme Court. Binay said her apprehensions and worries were alleviated due to DepEd Order No. 023, Series of 2023 which ensures the welfare of all students, parents, and teachers are protected. On 16 August DepEd issued Order No. 23, Series of 2023, or the “Assumption of Authority of the Department of Education over the 14 public schools affected by Supreme Court decision in G.R. No. 235316” signed by Duterte. DepEd said the order was issued following the increased tension between the two local government units regarding the management and supervision of the affected schools which poses uncertainty to the peaceful and orderly reopening of classes on 29 August. All activities in relation to the 14 public schools must first go through DepEd and be approved by VP Sara. This includes any activities by the city governments of Makati and Taguig. Taguig City can no longer enter and hold any activity inside the said schools without first informing and asking for permission from the DepEd. The order of the VP and DepEd Secretary also nullifies all previous orders and issuance from other branches of the national government in relation to the transfer of jurisdiction. She noted that Makati’s transition team is prepared to cooperate with DepEd to ensure the smooth transition of the schools. She also assured that the welfare of teachers, the youth, and their parents will always come first. The lady mayor said she is hoping no one will violate the said order. She added that it is not a good example for the youth if the leaders are not setting a good example by not following the directives and guidelines mandated by DepEd. Binay said Makati will follow the rule of law and all other regulations to be implemented during the transition. Binay said there are around 30,000 to 48,000 students studying in the 14 affected schools. The post Mayor Abby lauds DepEd intervention appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
JV backs Kalayaan reso on Chinese envoy
Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito on Monday expressed his support for a resolution approved by the Sangguniang Bayan of the municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan declaring Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian persona non grata. In a Viber message, Ejercito, a staunch critic of China’s encroachment in the West Philippine Sea, justified the resolution declaring the Chinese envoy to the Philippines persona non grata. “The Chinese Ambassador representing the Chinese government has been caught lying several times,” he told DAILY TRIBUNE. Last week, the municipality of Kalayaan — the lone municipality in the West Philippine Sea — declared Huang a persona non grata. In its Resolution 125-0125, SB of Kalayaan, Palawan, declared Huang a persona non grata after the latter defended the harassment of the China Coast Guard against Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea last 5 August. For his part, Ejercito said the Philippine government should no longer consider China as an “ally,” stressing its repeated illegal actions in the West Philippine Sea. “China should not be regarded as an ally anymore but instead as an adversary,” he said. “Note verbales coming from the Philippine government seem to be falling on deaf ears,” he added. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, as of 7 August, the country had filed a total of 445 diplomatic protests in the past three years. This year alone, the country has filed a total of 35 diplomatic protests, including the 5 August incident where China used a water cannon and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels while en route for a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal. Ayungin Shoal, also known as Second Thomas Shoal, is located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan and is part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. ‘Go slow’ Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III on Monday reminded local government units to be cautious in declaring foreign ambassadors in the country persona non grata. “We should go slow in declaring foreign ambassadors as personas non grata,” Pimentel told Daily Tribune. “Avoid this as much as possible,” he added. According to the Minority leader, an ambassador of a foreign country to the Philippines is the representative of that country to our country. He noted that grievances against any foreign diplomats in the country must be coursed through the Department of Foreign Affairs to be addressed “professionally.” “All grievances related to ambassadors and foreign relations must be coursed through our Department of Foreign Affairs so these grievances can be professionally handled,” he said. The vast South China Sea, which is claimed by the People’s Republic of China, covers the West Philippine Sea, which is also claimed by the Philippines. On 12 July 2016, the Philippines won its arbitral case against China in the Permanent Court of Arbitration — a landmark decision that the People’s Republic of China continues to reject. The post JV backs Kalayaan reso on Chinese envoy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pimentel: Go slow in declaring foreign ambassadors ‘persona non grata’
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III on Monday reminded local government units to be cautious in declaring foreign ambassadors in the country as "persona non grata". Pimentel issued the remarks when asked for a comment about a resolution approved by the Sangguniang Bayan of the municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan declaring Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian persona non grata. “We should go slow in declaring foreign ambassadors as personas non grata,” Pimentel told Daily Tribune. “Avoid this as much as possible,” he added. According to the Minority leader, an ambassador of a foreign country to the Philippines is the representative of that country to our country, so grievances against any foreign diplomats in the country must be coursed through the Department of Foreign Affairs to be addressed “professionally.” Last week, the municipality of Kalayaan – the lone municipality in the West Philippine Sea – declared Huang persona non grata. In its Resolution No. 125-0125, SB of Kalayaan, Palawan, declared Huang persona non grata after the latter defended the harassment of the China Coast Guard against Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea last 5 August. The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, condemned China’s actions, which included the use of water cannon and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels. The agency reiterated that the routine resupply mission of the Philippine Navy was a legitimate and regular activity of the Philippine government. Weeks after the incident, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. named former DFA chief Teodoro Locsin Jr. as his special envoy to China. Locsin will concurrently be the country’s envoy to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. The post Pimentel: Go slow in declaring foreign ambassadors ‘persona non grata’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MPD cops nab 4 drug peddlers in buy-bust ops
Manila Police District operatives arrested four illegal drug peddlers in two separate buy-bust operations conducted. Three of them were apprehended in the Port area, while one was captured in Sta. Ana, Manila on 19 and 20 August, respectively. On Saturday midnight, a buy-bust operation was conducted in Block 16 of Port Area, Manila, resulting in the arrest of three individuals in Baseco. The suspects were identified as Jeffrey Sacare (age 30), Kaharudin Mohamad (age 20), and Arjay Mohamad Usman (age 26), all residents of Baseco Compound in Port Area. They were apprehended by MPD-PS 13. The said suspects were caught by the police while in the act of selling shabu to a police poseur buyer at 11:06 p.m. Seized from them were the P500 marked money and six plastic sachets of shabu with a weight of 5.1 grams and a street value of P34,680. In Sta. Ana, the police conducted a buy-bust operation and apprehended a certain Edward Rigor Jr. y Tugade, also known as Gor, with address at Blk. 2 Lot 3 Kayumangi St., Brgy. Barangka Drive. He is a 30-year-old male, single, currently unemployed, and involved in drug pushing, but he is not listed on the drug watch list. Suspect Rigor was arrested on Sunday, 20 August, along La Torre St. corner M. Roxas St. in Sta. Ana, Manila. The buy-bust operation was conducted with approved pre-ops from PDEA where a police asset procured drugs from the suspect which gave positive results. The confiscated evidence has an estimated total weight of more or less 2 grams of shabu and a standard drug price value of P13,600. The four suspects will be charged with violating Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002, at the Manila Prosecutors Office. See photos here: The post MPD cops nab 4 drug peddlers in buy-bust ops appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»