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DENR greenlights Pasay reclamation projects
The DENR confirmed on Wednesday that it has allowed two Pasay City reclamation projects to continue — among the first reclamation activities to resume in Manila Bay since the president ordered a suspension in August......»»
Condé Nast hails Phl islands as world’s top destinations
Readers of the world-renowned luxury and lifestyle travel magazine, Condé Nast, have personally picked the Philippines’ pristine islands of Boracay, Palawan and Siargao as their preferred islands among their choices. Based on the results of the survey, asking about half a million readers who registered to vote online, Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao placed third, sixth, and tenth, respectively. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco elated the good news, affirming how the world-renowned islands continue to mesmerize global travelers. “We welcome the resounding message tourists from around the world say: They Love the Philippines! From the charm of our islands, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, lush landscapes, rich heritage and culture, and the excellent hospitality of the Filipino people, the Philippine experience is always one that is filled with love and happy travels,” she exclaimed. According to Condé Nast Travel, some 600,000 readers who registered to vote took part in the survey conducted online, making the Readers’ Choice Awards sought-after by the travel industry and often seen to forecast travel trends. Taking the third spot in Asia, Boracay garnered a total of 90.74 points, while Palawan got 89.71, and Siargao with 87.37 in readers’ votes. Frasco said: “This achievement reflects the hard work, dedication, and sustainable tourism efforts of our country, from our local communities, national and local government agencies, and stakeholders who have strived tirelessly to preserve and enhance the beauty of these islands.” Asked how this latest recognition will help position the country, Secretary Frasco said, “The awards inspire us to continue developing and promoting the Philippines as a premier travel destination in Asia and the world.” “Our commitment to sustainable tourism practices has not only captivated the hearts of travelers but has also contributed significantly to the growth of our nation’s tourism industry,” the Tourism chief concluded. It is said that Boracay and Palawan are no strangers on the said recognition, making an appearance in the list in the previous years. Last year, Boracay topped the list of islands in Asia, with Palawan ranking eight. The post Condé Nast hails Phl islands as world’s top destinations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR hopes P60M enough as mining driver
Backed by P60 million in funding, the government is set to launch a more focused mineral exploration regime next year to complement the private sector’s drive to ramp up local production of minerals. Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary for Environment and Integrated Science Carlos Primo David said the planned exploration will particularly target the unveiling of critical minerals that would support the country’s renewable energy transition. These critical mineral resources, such as nickel and chromium, are used in manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles. “The government has a budget of P60 million for mineral exploration. What we want to do is to focus on certain areas,” David told reporters in an interview with reporters at the sidelines of the Mining Philippines International Conference and Exhibition on Tuesday. Not enough fund David, however, noted that the budget would not suffice for a full-blown mineral exploration as it will be equally divided among the 16 regions of the country. “We wanted to focus on that small budget and revive exploration by the government. Hopefully, when we do the initial exploration, there is enough information for the private sector to get interested and continue the exploration,” David said. For David, mining exploration should be initiated by the government either through a Department Administrative Order or Memorandum Circular. Relatedly, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau or MGB was tasked to follow up on previously explored areas that were left or discontinued. In his keynote speech, David pointed out that while the minerals development sector grows, global studies have shown that responsible mining that marries financial viability with environmental sustainability and social development can ensure a longer life of mine, greater acceptability, and license to operate and sectoral stability. “A responsive and responsible mining industry that delivers both corporate and national dividends and abides by the guidelines of the Task Forces of Climate and Nature-related financial disclosures is what we envision for the country,” he said. The post DENR hopes P60M enough as mining driver appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR spotlights medicinal forest tree research at ASEAN conference
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau on Sunday emphasized the importance of advancing research on medicinal plants and forest trees, underlining their crucial role in increasing awareness of their potential benefits and optimizing their use. This message was conveyed at the conclusion of the ASEAN Conference on Medicinal Forest Trees on 7 September in Pampanga, gathering 117 participants from across Southeast Asia. ERDB Director Maria Lourdes G. Ferrer urged all participants to continue championing research, innovation, and responsible management of the country’s natural resources, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and information sharing to bring about transformative change. “Through your rigorous research, innovative thinking, and unwavering commitment to responsible stewardship of our natural resources, we have unearthed possibilities that will undoubtedly expand beyond the limits of current knowledge,” Ferrer said. Ferrer noted that the conference discussions not only deepened understanding but also promoted collaboration for the advancement of medicinal non-timber forest species. Besides the inadequate research support, the conference acknowledged the shortage of published literature on medicinal forest trees. It also emphasized the substantial threats posed by forest degradation and habitat loss to vital medicinal forest tree species. Furthermore, there is a pressing need for more "ethnobotanical" and pharmacological research on medicinal plants and forest trees. The ERDB recommended integrating these issues into the DENR's Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) Agenda, while also continuing efforts to collect data on medicinal forest trees and conducting ongoing ethnobotanical and pharmacological research. To enhance science communication, there will be an improved information and education campaign on the medicinal value of forest trees, along with increased promotion of RDE on medicinal forest trees. The publication of research results will continue to raise awareness and encourage the use of these valuable resources. “Together, we can fully realize the medicinal potential of our forest trees, creating a brighter and healthier future,” Ferrer concluded. The post DENR spotlights medicinal forest tree research at ASEAN conference appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Championing ‘Sampaguita’ hospitality
Megaworld Hotels & Resorts is bringing in a Filipino touch to its signature brand of hospitality. Sampaguita, the Philippines’ national flower, is Megaworld’s new brand symbol in promoting sustainable tourism, hospitality and agriculture — all part of the company’s thrust toward providing a unique and proudly Filipino guest experience. “Megaworld Hotels & Resorts resonates with the values of the country’s national flower, namely love, honor, dignity and healing. We desire for our brand to stand out and touch the heart of every Filipino, and be the brand that one can be truly proud of. It’s our goal to be the hospitality chain whose story people can relate with because our journey mirrors what every Filipino undergoes, yet comes out stronger from,” Cleofe Albiso, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts managing director said. [caption id="attachment_181097" align="aligncenter" width="650"] SAVOY Hotel Manila.[/caption] She added, Sampaguita artworks will greet guests on entrance, with the staff donning the flower’s pins painted with colors of the Philippine flag. Guests will also get a whiff of a specially-concocted sampaguita scent with notes of fresh herbs, eucalyptus and peppermint during their stay. Exclusive and new dishes infused with sampaguita essence, such as salads, soups, mains and desserts, will be offered at the different Megaworld hotel restaurants and cafes. Meanwhile, guests who wish to have a soothing, relaxing massage can opt to use sampaguita massage oils in one of the spa’s or room service. They can also choose to end their session with a cup of SaMaRra tea with flavors of sampaguita, mango and tarragon to provide healing from the inside. [caption id="attachment_181098" align="aligncenter" width="1589"] Sampaguita, the Philippines’ national flower, is Megaworld’s new brand symbol in promoting sustainable tourism, hospitality and agriculture.[/caption] Reviving the Sampaguita industry Megaworld Hotels & Resorts has partnered with Dwellbeing, a sustainable, private enterprise led by visionary women. It provides jobs to challenged sectors of society by converting used bottles to create organic home cleaning products and scents. Through this, Dwellbeing is able to continue its advocacy of feeding families through “Project Pearls” that provide employment to the deaf and mute in partnership with the Hand and Heart Organization. Raw materials will be sourced in collaboration with the local government of San Pedro, Laguna, the “Sampaguita Capital of the Philippines.” [caption id="attachment_181099" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF MEGAWORLDBELMONT Manila.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_181100" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] HOTEL Lucky Chinatown.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_181101" align="aligncenter" width="1278"] RICHMONDE Tower.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_181102" align="aligncenter" width="700"] KINGSFORD Hotel Manila.[/caption] The sampaguita is part of MEGreen, Megaworld’s company-wide sustainability program that promotes the real estate developer’s commitment to providing patches of land dedicated to the planting of sampaguita in its townships across the country. Megaworld Hotels & Resorts has launched 18 hotel properties, 12 of which are operational while five more are in the pipeline including Savoy Palawan in San Vicente and Grand Westside Hotel in Parañaque City, poised to be the biggest hotel in the Philippines once it opens. The existing operational hotels with around 7,700 hotel room keys being managed and operated by the group include Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, Savoy Hotel Newport, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, Belmont Hotel Manila, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Belmont Hotel Mactan, Kingsford Hotel Manila, Twin Lakes Hotel in Tagaytay and Hotel Lucky Chinatown in Binondo, Manila. The post Championing ‘Sampaguita’ hospitality appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pasig River rehab plan gets FL Liza’s nod
In five words, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos declared her support to the plan to fully rehabilitate Pasig River. “Para sa Pasig River natin!” thus, posted the First Lady on her Instagram after the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development (IAC-PRUD) presented its master plan for the massive rehabilitation of Pasig River in Malacanang on Wednesday. Revitalizing the Pasig River into a commercial, lifestyle tourism and culture hub, like Thames and Seine, is among the advocacies of the First Lady as reported by Tatler Asia magazine this month. Dubbed as “Pasig Bigyan Buhay Muli” (PBBM) Project, the massive urban development undertaking was crafted by member-agencies of the IAC-PRUD which was created by virtue of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Executive Order 35 signed last July 25. The PBBM Project is a holistic approach composed of development plans for mixed-use commercial areas, including tourist spots, and open public parks along the 25-kilometer stretch of the Pasig River from the Manila Bay all the way to the Laguna de Bay. Initially, the IAC-PRUD identified eight key areas where the people-centric improvements could be made like jogging paths and bike lanes from the city of Manila up to Rizal province - traversing major cities in the metropolis. Informal settler families living along the river banks will be prioritized under the flagship Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program. “Talagang ang Pangulong Bongbong Marcos po at si First Lady ang aktibong nagsusulong nito - hindi lamang para linisin kundi pagandahin at buhayin ang Ilog Pasig,” Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said. “At bilin din po nila na tulungan ang mga kababayan nating naninirahan sa danger zones along the river. Kaya may plano na rin po kami para sa mga informal settler families diyan,” he added. By virtue of EO 35, the IAC-PRUD was created with DHSUD as chair and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) as vice chair. Members of the IAC-PRUD include the secretaries of DPWH, DENR, DILG, DOT, DoTr, DOF, DBM; the chairpersons of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and the NCCA, the general manager of the PPA, commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard, the general manager of the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the chief executive officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority. The National Housing Authority will serve as the secretariat. # The post Pasig River rehab plan gets FL Liza’s nod appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
LIMA Water secures DENR OK for laboratory services
LIMA Water Corp., the water business of Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc., secured the greenlight to continue and expand the operations of its environmental testing laboratory for the government......»»
Ipilan mining cease order backed
Puerto Princesa City, PALAWAN — Anti-mining supporters in a Southern Palawan town gathered Monday morning for a celebratory motorcade and assembly to rally behind the implementation of the cease-and-desist order issued by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples against the mining activities of Ipilan Nickel Corporation. The motorcade started from Barangay Calasaguen and passed through Barangay Maasin, the location of Ipilan’s mining operations in Brooke’s Point town, and proceeded to the poblacion area to the Octagon Plaza. They said that the move aims to increase awareness about the purpose of the CDO directed at the mining company and organizer Job Lagrada expressed gratitude to all attendees and stressed the significance of united efforts in the ongoing struggle. “The objective of this is to communicate to all of you the purpose of this CDO issued against INC. Thank you to all who participated in this activity for your continuous fight, and now we’ve been heard,” Lagrada said. Gil Valdestamon, a farmer from Barangay Aribungos supporting the anti-mining cause, also conveyed a message during the rally. Valdestamon is among the farmers opposing Ipilan’s operation, believing it will cause significant harm to Brooke’s Point, particularly the Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape where Ipilan’s mining operation is said to have encroached. “May this be a great help for us, we’ve been heard. Let’s stay united to continue our fight; we need to stand together,” Valdestamon said. Meantime, Vice Mayor Mary Jean Feliciano — a strong advocate against mining -- emphasized that the journey to uphold the writ of kalikasan and the CDO had only just begun. She also urged the youth to join the fight and make their voices heard, sharing her own experience of suspension due to accusations of abusing power. “This writ of kalikasan and CDO are really just the beginning; the journey is far from over. Let’s fight for this. To the youth, stand up for this. You remember, I was suspended because they said I abused my mayoral powers,” Feliciano said. “Even though the law is good, if this is how it’s interpreted, where else can I turn? I’ve done nothing but pray, and my daily prayer is that they won’t be given silence because what they’re doing is wrong,” she added. She also discussed concerns about the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, highlighting past resolutions that have been proposed. Feliciano questioned why the mining activities of Ipilan, operating without proper permits and compliance, had not been adequately addressed. “The DENR, MGB, we’ve had numerous resolutions since then. This is the mine without permits, without CP. Why haven’t you taken action?” Feliciano said. Last week, Ipilan acknowledged the Supreme Court’s decision to issue a writ of kalikasan as the ruling offers them an opportunity to address and refute repetitive baseless allegations, which have consistently been disproven by various government entities. According to the mining company, the ruling does not disrupt Ipilan’s activities since the request for a Temporary Environmental Protection Order has been declined. It added that it contrary to claims, they refrained from mining within the overlapping area in Mt. Mantalingahan, and that allegations related to tree-cutting activities were conducted under the authority of a valid permit, upheld by the court. The post Ipilan mining cease order backed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pasig River rehab, priority advocacy of FL
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar on Sunday said the rehabilitation of Pasig River, by virtue of Executive Order (EO) 35, has the backing of First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos. In its August 2023 issue which features the First Lady, Tatler Asia magazine cited the Pasig River rehabilitation as among her three priority-advocacies, the other two being education and improved access to quality health care. Tatler Asia stated that the First Lady envisions Pasig River to become a lifestyle and commercial hub, and a major tourist attraction when fully rehabilitated. “As for the river initiative, she (First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos) hopes that revitalizing the Pasig will make it an attraction in its own right, in the same way, that the Thames or Seine or Bangkok’s Chao Phraya are: arteries of commerce, lifestyle, tourism and culture, drawing visitors from home and overseas,” Tatler Asia wrote. Acuzar welcomed the support of the First Couple as a huge boost to the efforts of IAC-PRUD for the massive rehabilitation of the Pasig River, which also covers the relocation of thousands of informal settler families. Amelita "Ming" Ramos is perhaps the most well-known former first lady, who made the rehabilitation of the Pasig River synonymous with her name with the alliterative "Piso Para Pasig" campaign during the Ramos administration. Under EO 35, which created the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development (IAC-PRUD) was created with the DHSUD as lead, the MMDA will serve as vice chair and the secretaries of DPWH, DENR, DILG, DOT, DoTr, DOF, DBM; the chairpersons of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and the NCCA, the general manager of the PPA, commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard, the general manager of the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the chief executive officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority were tapped as members. The National Housing Authority will serve as the secretariat. The IAC-PRUD was primarily tasked to “facilitate and ensure the full rehabilitation of the banks along the Pasig River water system and nearby water systems in order to provide alternative transportation, propel economic opportunities, and boost tourism activities.” The post Pasig River rehab, priority advocacy of FL appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Reclamation projects contradict Manila Bay rehab – DENR
Reclamation projects in Manila Bay are contradicting efforts to rehabilitate the area, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources......»»
Fishers skeptical over Manila Bay rehab funding
“Over the years, the DENR has been complicit with big corporations involved in reclamation and other forms of conversion in Manila Bay, putting the livelihood and other socio-economic rights of fishers at stake." The post Fishers skeptical over Manila Bay rehab funding appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
Environmental group appeals to PBBM, DENR to stop reclamation in Batangas as well
An environmental advocacy group is also calling on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to also stop ongoing reclamation projects on the coast of Batangas. The Protect the Verde Island Passage (Protect VIP) said the reclamation in Batangas province would pave the way for the construction of more liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals and power plants. Fr. Edwin Gariguez, Protect VIP convenor, said in a radio interview that the ongoing reclamation projects in VIP for the construction of fossil gas projects "will result in turbid waters and make (seagrass), coral reefs, and marine fauna vulnerable to stressors.” The Verde Island Passage according to Conservation International (Philippines), is one of the most productive ecosystems in the world and is recognized as the center of global shore-fish biodiversity. It is also home to species such as whale sharks, sea turtles, and an impressive array of corals. It extends to the coastlines of Batangas, Romblon, Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro, and Oriental Mindoro provinces. Gariguez said the VIP waters continue to yield new species to science, further underscoring its global biological significance. The marine corridor is the “epicenter” of fossil gas and LNG developments in the country now that eight of 27 proposed new plants and seven of the nine planned LNG terminals in the country will be located in Batangas. Protect group warned that by allowing fossil gas facilities to be built and operated, it will expose the VIP to the frequent entry of LNG barges, and inadvertent oil spills or disposal of shipboard liquid waste and bilge water. “Putting up these gas terminals and power plants is destructive as the dumping and filling of land disturb the existing coastal habitats in VIP, ” Gariguez said. In May 2023, while the passage is currently a marine protected area, the governors of five provinces governors want it to be a “legislated protected area", with DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga agreeing with them. “Considering its mandate, the DENR is committed to strengthening the protection and management of the VIP as a priority conservation area,” Loyzaga said. When Gariguez's group learned of the President's decision to suspend all 22 reclamation projects in Manila Bay, they believed this was also the best time to bring the matter to the DENR. 22 Manila Bay reclamation projects Meanwhile, DENR also on Tuesday clarified that the subject of the suspension order by the President are the 22 reclamation projects in the Manila Bay Area only and not the entire Philippines. Of the 22 reclamation projects, DENR records showed that 15 are in the jurisdiction of the National Capital Region where three projects are already ongoing. The remaining 7 projects are located in CALABARZON. The agency said Manila Bay is not only limited to Metro Manila shorelines. It also has areas in Region 3 and 4A--several provinces like Bulacan, Cavite and Bataan. The post Environmental group appeals to PBBM, DENR to stop reclamation in Batangas as well appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DHSUD hits ground running on Pasig River rehab
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development has hit the ground running after being tapped as head of the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development by virtue of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Executive Order 35. DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, along with key DHSUD officials, has started inspecting key areas along the Pasig River and laid out plans on how to implement the President’s order. Initially, Acuzar checked on the portions of the historical river in Manila, particularly at the back of the Central Post Office, which is being eyed as pilot area for mixed-use development and tourism spot, and Parola Compound for the affected informal settler families. “We already have plans, and we will soon present it to the Office of the President and before the council for approval,” Acuzar said. The DHSUD chief has already met with MMDA Chairman Romando Artes, vice chair of the IAC-PRUD, to discuss the council’s initial steps to put the order’s provisions into actionable strategies for the member-agencies. Under EO35, the secretaries of DPWH, DENR, DILG, DOT, DoTr, DOF, DBM; the chairperson of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, general manager of the Philippine Ports Authority, commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard, the general manager of the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the chief executive officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority were named as council members. The National Housing Authority will serve as the secretariat. The IAC-PRUD was tasked primarily to “facilitate and ensure the full rehabilitation of the banks along the Pasig River water system and nearby water systems in order to provide alternative transportation, propel economic opportunities, and boost tourism activities.” The council was directed to formulate a Pasig River Urban Development Plan which shall serve as the blueprint for the full rehabilitation of the river to realize its full potential for mixed-use development, transportation, recreation, tourism and sustainable human settlement, taking into consideration its historic and cultural value. It was also ordered to “study, prepare and implement a comprehensive shelter plan for massive relocation of informal settler families and other unauthorized or unlawful occupants along the Pasig River banks, including identification of suitable relocation sites; strategies for economic and social integration for ISFs, and long-term solutions to address ongoing migration into the Pasig River banks." The EO also authorizes the IAC-PRUD to “accept grants, contributions, donations, endowments, bequests or gifts in cash or in kind from local and foreign sources in support of the formulation and implementation of the Pasig River Urban Development Plan, subject to existing laws, rules and regulations. To monitor the progress of the rehabilitation, EO35 tasked the IAC-PRUD to submit to the Office of the President, through the Office of the Executive Secretary, a quarterly status report. The post DHSUD hits ground running on Pasig River rehab appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
GERI profits nearly P1B in H1 amid real estate boom
Buoyed by the robust performance of its real estate, rental, and hotel businesses, Global-Estate Resorts, Inc. or GERI, a subsidiary of Megaworld Corp., delivered a 17 percent growth in its first-half profits. In a stock exchange report on Tuesday, GERI disclosed that its net income during the first six months of the year reached P996 million—a significant improvement from last year’s P848 million. Likewise, net income attributable to owners during the period also increased by 13 percent to PP848-million from last year’s P748-million. Consolidated revenues, on the other hand, surged by 32 percent to P3.9 billion from P3 billion in the same period last year. According to GERI, its real estate arm, which accounted for 79 percent of its total revenues, led the entire company’s growth. From January to June, real estate sales climbed by 32 percent to P3.1 billion from last year’s P2.3 billion. Reservation sales also soared by 39 percent to P11.7 billion during the first half of the year. “Our focus on our tourism townships allowed our company to achieve remarkable growth through the first half of the year,” GERI president Monica T. Salomon said in the report. “The company’s core businesses, especially those in our destination estates, largely benefited from the increasing tourism in our country. This second half, we are determined to leverage our expertise and hope to continue capturing the increasing tourism opportunities in the sector.” Demand for GERI’s residential and commercial properties remained strong, particularly for its projects in Boracay Newcoast, Eastland Heights in Antipolo, Rizal, and Twin Lakes in Laurel, Batangas. Its newest project, the P817-million Ocean Garden Villas Cluster C in Boracay Newcoast, which was only launched earlier this year, is now 94 percent sold as of end-June. Hotel revenues, on the other hand, doubled to P308 million from last year’s P158 million due to higher occupancy and room rates as local tourism and travel recover. Leasing revenues, likewise, rose by 29 percent to P273 million from last year’s P211- million. The contribution of retail spaces to the company’s leasing income grew from the year-ago level as foot traffic and tenant sales already recovered from the slowdown. To date, GERI operates nine tourism estates and integrated lifestyle communities across the country covering more than 3,300 hectares of land. The post GERI profits nearly P1B in H1 amid real estate boom appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
OCD honors disaster resilience champions
In celebration of the National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM) last July, the Department of National Defense (DND) - Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) concluded the NDRM with a culminating activity themed “Pagpupugay sa Bidang Pilipino”. DND-OCD and its partners, NDRRMC, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), National Resilience Council (NRC), and ARISE PH co-presented the “Dangal Bantayog ng Katatagan” awards, which recognize national decision-makers, local actors, and changemakers on the ground. The four awardees include SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SMPHI) Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia “Toni” Yulo-Loyzaga, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr., and Center for Disaster Preparedness President Zenaida Delica-Willison. In his welcome remarks, OCD Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno said, “The impeccable performance [of our awardees] over the years inspires the Bayanihan spirit and contributes to a safe, secured, and resilient way of life for every Filipino. They exemplify the value that no one is left behind amid managing disaster risks.” Meanwhile, DND Undersecretary Irineo Espino, on behalf of DND Secretary and NDRRMC Chairperson Gilberto Teodoro Jr., extended his congratulations to the awardees and urged stakeholders to continue working together, coming up with new ideas, and advocating for policies that increase the resilience of the country. The Dangal Bantayog ng Katatagan awardees DENR Secretary Maria Antonia “Toni” Yulo-Loyzaga was conferred with “Dangal ng Pilipino sa Pagtataguyod ng Pampublikong Katatagan” for her exemplary service as the incumbent Secretary of the DENR and Chairperson on Climate Change Adaptation, Mitigation, and Disaster Risk Reduction of the Cabinet Cluster. DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr. on the other hand, received the “Dangal ng Pilipino sa Pagpapaunlad ng Kagalingan at Katatagan” award, recognizing his decades of public service in the field of DRR management and his fundamental contributions in research and development as a scientist. Another staunch advocate of DRRM is Zenaida Delica-Willison who received the “Dangal ng Pilipino sa Bayanihan at Kaligtasan ng Pamayanan” for pioneering the advancement and promotion of community-based DRRM at the national, regional, and international levels. Hans Sy was awarded the “Dangal ng Pilipino sa Pag-Agapay sa Ligtas na Sambayanan,” the first-ever awardee from the private sector. “I stand here today as a believer in the whole-of-society approach as well as the use of science and technology. This and the public-private collaboration are pivotal in addressing systemic risk and reducing disaster losses,” he said. “Let us all bounce forward and embrace the spirit of resilience in everything we do. Together, we can create a world not only that endures but thrives in the face of challenges.” Sy is the Chairman of the Executive Committee of SPHI, Co-Chair of the United Nations DRR Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies or ARISE Philippines, and Co-Chair of the National Resilience Council for the Private Sector. Under his dedicated guidance, SMPHI has continuously promoted environmental sustainability and disaster resilience, giving the next generations hope for progress and prosperity. Expanding DRRM partnerships A summit with a number of seminars was held during the morning session before the awards presentation. The summit's talks were put in motion by one of the keynote speakers, Senate President Pro-Tempore, Senator Loren Legarda. She underlined in her message that improving the nation's resilience to climate change and natural disasters requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-nation strategy. Sen. Legarda also highlighted the need to effectively apply all pertinent legislation in order to achieve the objective of creating communities that are more secure and resilient. See more photos here: The post OCD honors disaster resilience champions appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Legislate wage increase like MIF
Rising inflation, and high cost of living are just some of the issues militant groups are protesting on Commonwealth Avenue, Monday, in time for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. SONA. Former Kabataan Party List Representative Raymond "Mong" de Vera Palatino, Secretary General of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan one of the organizers of the march said, most of the rallyists are members of labor forces and organizations pushing for a 'legislated wage increase.' "Legislated because we want it to cover the entire workforce of the country. The P40 from the wage board is also not enough and covers only the workers of Metro Manila," Palatino explained. "Insulto yan P40 from the wage board," Palatino said He added that the lawmakers instead passed the Maharlika Investment Fund, "which was not even in the campaign promise of PBBM and in the first SONA." "Inflation ang daing ng karaniwang tao. Mataas na presyo ng pagkain. Di ito makukuha sa pakadi-Kadiwa lang na iilan lang ang nakaka-avail. Di rin malulutas ng ayuda ang gutom," he added. A P1,100 legislated wage increase according to Palatino will go along with the 'family living wage.' The last legislated wage, he added, was in 1989. While they welcome other proposals from legislators like what Senate President Migz Zubiri did in pushing for P150 increase to try the current P600 daily wage, half of the P1,100 will be of great help to them. Palatino said they gave PBBM a failing grade over this concern, adding that the call for unity the president carried as his campaign slogan and the new 'Bagong Pilipinas' are only "superficial branding." environment activist Meanwhile, the Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) conducted a different kind of protest, serenading at the Department of Environment Natural Resources bringing fruits and flowers as gifts, symbolizing the preservation of natural resources and our earnest desire to dialogue with the government. ATM claimed one full year in office, President Bongbong Marcos, Jr. and DENR Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga have not acted on the demands of mining-affected communities, particularly the residents of Sibuyan Island, Romblon and Brooke’s Point, Palawan. "Fact is, mining operations continue in both regions and the respective Mineral Production Sharing Agreements (MPSAs) of Altai Philippines Mining Corporation in Sibuyan and Ipilan Nickel Corporation in Brooke’s Point have not been canceled," the group said in a statement. They added that during last year’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), "over the course of a year, grassroots communities have undertaken various activities to articulate our situation and push for our demands. The activities range from submission of petition letters and research studies to vigils, dialogues, and protest actions." Investigations have still to be conducted, according to ATM, mining operations have yet to be permanently stopped, and mining contracts have still to be canceled. "Worse, while the demands of mining-affected communities are ignored, mining companies are given headway in their operations. We also urgently call for a comprehensive review of seabed quarrying and offshore mining activities and a halt to the operations in Manila Bay," they explained. "We do not want to waste more time waiting. The time to act is NOW. Pagkatapos ng usapan, Aksiyon Ang Kailangan!" they said. The post Legislate wage increase like MIF appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
OFW monies reach $2.78B
Cash remittances coursed through banks increased in May following the growth in receipts from workers abroad. Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Monday showed that overseas Filipino remittances reached $2.78 billion in May 2023, higher by 2.9 percent than the $2.70 billion registered in the same month last year. “The expansion in cash remittances in May 2023 was due to the growth in receipts from land- and sea-based workers,” BSP said in a statement. Consequently, personal remittances for the first five months of the year grew by 3.1 percent to $14.46 billion, from $14.02 billion posted in the comparable period in 2022. On a year-to-date basis, cash remittances reached $12.98 billion, 3.1 percent higher than the year-ago level of $12.59 billion. “The growth in cash remittances from the United States, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia contributed mainly to the increase in remittances in the first five months of 2023,” BSP said. “Meanwhile, in terms of country sources, the US posted the highest share of overall remittances during the period, followed by Singapore, Saudi Arabia and Japan,” BSP added. In an emailed commentary, Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the continued growth in the year-on-year overseas Filipino remittances might have to do with increased holiday-related spending since the Holy Week in April 2023. “More people travel to go back to their respective hometowns in the provinces for vacations, also during the school break (June to July), spend for gatherings/reunions, as well as finance vacations locally or overseas,” Ricafort said. He added that relatively higher inflation also required sending more money to families and dependents in the Philippines. Ricafort said that further reopening the economy towards greater normalcy also led to increased spending with some pent-up demand or revenge spending by OFW families and dependents that were partly financed with the increased OFW remittances. Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday encouraged overseas Filipinos to return to the Philippines, citing the “great many opportunities” for them here. During the courtesy call of 2023 Very Important Pinoy Tour participants in Malacañang, Marcos encouraged overseas Filipinos to come home and bring their children back to the Philippines so that they could learn about Filipino culture. “There are a great many opportunities for you and for the country as we try to transform the economy,” Marcos said. “I encourage you to come back and see what is happening in the Philippines,” he added. He also praised the contributions of overseas Filipinos to the Philippines, saying that they were “practically parts of their families.” “In every part of the societies that we Filipinos have decided to go to, we have made a very good name for ourselves,” Marcos said. “And for that, we thank our Filipino brothers and sisters who live abroad and continue to make the name of the Philippines shine.” Marcos added that Filipinos worldwide have become and continue to become an essential part of Philippine society and of the places where they decided to live and work. Per its website, the VIP Tour is led by the Department of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and Rajah Tours. The current year’s travel plan blends the finest attractions of Metropolitan Manila, Iloilo and Boracay, offering participants a thrilling and educational vacation experience. The post OFW monies reach $2.78B appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM to OFWs: ‘Come back and see what’s happening in Phl’
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday encouraged overseas Filipinos to return to the Philippines, citing the “great many opportunities” for them here. During the courtesy call of 2023 Very Important Pinoy Tour participants in Malacañang, Marcos encouraged overseas Filipinos to come home and bring their children back to the Philippines so that they could learn about the country's culture. "There are a great many opportunities for you and for the country as we try to transform the economy," Marcos said. "I encourage you to come back and see what is happening in the Philippines," he added. He also praised the contributions of overseas Filipinos to the Philippines, saying that they are "practically parts of their families." "In every part of the society that we Filipinos have decided to go to, we have made a very good name for ourselves," Marcos said. "And for that, we thank our Filipino brothers and sisters who live abroad and continue to make the name of the Philippines shiny." Per the information on its website, the VIP Tour is led by the Department of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and Rajah Tours. The current year's travel plan blends the finest attractions of Metropolitan Manila, Iloilo, and Boracay, offering participants a thrilling and educational vacation experience. The post PBBM to OFWs: ‘Come back and see what’s happening in Phl’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Keeping Siargao’s waters clean and safe
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources is helping Siargao Island protect its water resources by helping local residents follow proper waste disposal protocols. Siargao is a declared protected area pursuant to Republic Act 7586 or the National Integrated Protected Areas System Act of 1992 as amended by Republic Act 11038 or the Expanded NIPAS Act of 2018. But it is prone to generating a high volume of waste from its tourism activities. Educating residents and visitors on proper waste disposal will prevent the contamination of the island’s waters with the E. coli bacteria that had blighted Boracay in 2018. Unlike Boracay which consist only of three barangays, Siargao Island is composed of nine municipalities. Gina Barquilla, Del Carmen Municipal Environment and Natural Resources officer, said the DENR helped them put up a two-hectare land to serve as the materials recovery facility for the municipality, funded by an Asian Development Bank grant. "We are now able to segregate our solid waste, which are then recycled and pulverized for other uses. Glass bottles may be used as bricks while plastic can be made as “sagwan” (banca paddle)," Barquilla said. Mayor Alfredo Corro II, she added, has also entered into a public-private partnership with the JCA 1221 Group of Companies, whose subsidiary FLOV2VS (Faith Lived Out Vision to Ventures), has put up a septage treatment plant that converts waste water into recyclable water. Inaugurated in 31 May this year, the treatment plant can clean up waste water from septic tanks, kitchen sinks and showers and distribute the recycled water for firefighters' water tanks and other uses. DENR Protected Area Superintendent Sam Malayao said they have teamed up with the island's municipalities to implement environmental laws, teaching commercial establishments how to dispose of waste property as well as manage their sewage system. All tourism-related establishments are encouraged to avail themselves of Del Carmen's waste water treatment under the Siargao Sewage Program, added Malayao. So far, of the more or less 2,000 commercial establishments around Siargao Island, 30 already make use of the service, with more expected to join by the end of the year. "STP is an ecology-driven investment. It's just one modality for our waste management. Pag sinabi kasing septic, parang ayaw pag-usapan, pero kailangan natin gawin (Nobody wants to talk about septic needs, but we need to act on it)," Del Carmen Municipal Mayor Alfredo Corro II told the Daily Tribune. The post Keeping Siargao’s waters clean and safe appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Governor denies hand in Homonhon mining permit
BORONGAN CITY — Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone has denied having a hand in permitting a mining company to conduct a large-scale operation in Homonhon Island. In a public statement issued on Tuesday, Evardone said it is beyond his power to issue a mining permit since it is only the Department of Environment and Natural Resources that can do so. “I have no authority to issue a mining permit. It is only the DENR which is authorized to issue permits to large-scale mining operations like in Homonhon,” he said. Evardone issued the statement to clarify reports circulating in social media regarding his supposed hand in the renewed operation of Hinatuan Mining Corporation. The speculation arose after Evardone’s son, provincial board member Ralph Vincent Evardone, announced a plan to hold an inter-town basketball tournament where Nickel Asia Corporation, the mother company of HMC, is the main sponsor. HMC is operating in Manicani Island, which is adjacent to Homonhon Island where three other mining companies are operating. The Mines and Geosciences Bureau central office, on 2 March 2022, granted the petition of HMC to continue its operation for 15 years to cover the expired portion of its Mineral Production Sharing Agreement that was not used due to suspension of its operation. The MPSA awarded to HMC on 28 April 1992 a 25-years permit to mine 1,164.55 hectares out of the Manicani’s total size of 1,166 hectares. The mining operation was suspended in 2002 due to social unrest in the island and complaints of environmental damages. The MPSA expired on 28 October 2017. The governor reiterated that he is not against mining as long as the company operates responsibly. “I am for responsible mining. I am against any illegal mining activities in Eastern Samar,” Evardone said. He said that all mining companies must strictly observe all mining, environmental and social protection laws. If these companies cannot comply with all the standards, DENR should stop their operations, the governor added. Evardone said that mining companies in Homonhon Island are not paying their taxes to the province, are not transparent, and are not providing any form of social protection to the people and the environment. The post Governor denies hand in Homonhon mining permit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»