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Netanyahu says Israel ‘preparing’ Gaza ground war
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday that Israel is readying a ground war in Gaza, pressing ahead with plans that have troubled allies and threaten to worsen an already cascading humanitarian crisis. Facing ever-louder international calls to temper Israel's ferocious 19-day bombing campaign in the Hamas-controlled territory, Netanyahu delivered a nationally televised address. He told fellow Israelis still grieving and angry after Hamas's bloody attacks: "We are in the midst of a campaign for our existence," while insisting Israel will decide how the war is prosecuted. On 7 October, throngs of Hamas gunmen poured from Gaza into Israel, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 222 more, according to official tallies. US President Joe Biden is among the foreign leaders stepping up public calls for Israel to "protect innocent civilians" and to follow the "laws of war" as it pursues Hamas targets. Thousands of Gazans are already believed to have died in Israel's aerial assault, with the toll expected to rise substantially if tens of thousands of Israeli troops massed around Gaza move in. Biden on Wednesday said he had privately suggested Israel should get hostages out if possible before any ground invasion. "It's their decision, but I did not demand it", Biden said, as he called on Congress to allocate more money for Israeli defense. Speaking in Cairo, French President Emmanuel Macron warned: "A massive intervention that would put civilian lives at risk would be an error." But boasting of "raining down hellfire on Hamas" and killing "thousands of terrorists", Netanyahu said his war cabinet and the military would determine the timing of a "ground offensive" to "eliminate Hamas" and "bring our captives home." "I will not detail when, how, or how many," he said. 'It's a massacre' Gaza's Hamas-controlled health ministry puts the number of Palestinian deaths at 6,500, including many children and 700 people killed in a single 24-hour window this week. AFP could not independently verify the ministry's claims, and US President Biden has stated he has "no confidence" in the Hamas ministry figures. While the exact toll from the war in Gaza is unclear, the depth of the suffering is not in question. Entire neighborhoods have been razed, overflowing hospitals carry out procedures without anesthetic, and residents have been forced to use ice cream trucks as makeshift morgues. "They're not waging war on Hamas, they're waging war on children," raged Abu Ali Zaarab, after his family home was bombed in the southern town of Rafah. "It's a massacre." About 1.4 million people -- more than half the population -- have been displaced, according to the United Nations. The UN says 12 of the territory's 35 hospitals have closed due to damage or insufficient fuel, and a key UN aid agency serving almost 600,000 Palestinians "began to significantly reduce its operations." Israel has cut off Gaza's normal supply corridors for water, food, and other necessities, and fewer than 70 relief trucks have entered the impoverished territory since the war began. None contained fuel, which Israel fears Hamas will use for rockets and explosives. Aid agencies have warned that more people will die if medical equipment, water desalination plants, and ambulances stop operating because of a lack of fuel. Once the generators stop, hospitals will "turn into morgues", the Red Cross has warned. Hospitals are also struggling with a shortage of medicines and equipment. "There's not enough anesthetic," said Ahmad Abdul Hadi, an orthopedic surgeon working at Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis. "The wounded are in severe pain but we can't wait for the procedure, so we're forced to do the operation. We performed a number of surgeries without anesthetic. It's tough and painful, but with the lack of resources, what can we do?" A regional 'explosion' The war has sparked fears of a regional conflagration if it draws in more of Israel's enemies. Since October 7, Israel has launched thousands of reprisal strikes in Gaza, but it has also hit targets in Lebanon and Syria. Late Wednesday, Lebanon-based Hezbollah fired what Israel said was a surface-to-air missile at an Israeli drone. Israel's military said it had intercepted the missile and "struck the source of the launch" in retaliation. Hamas, Hezbollah, and Syria's government are backed by Iran, which denies Israel's right to exist. Tehran's top diplomat on Wednesday accused Israel of carrying out "genocide" in Gaza. Jordan's King Abdullah became the latest leader to warn that ongoing violence could "lead to an explosion" in the region. His wife Queen Rania accused Western leaders of a "glaring double standard" for not condemning Israel's killing of Palestinian civilians in its bombardment of Gaza. Violence has also risen sharply in the occupied West Bank, where health officials said more than 100 Palestinians had been killed, mostly in raids by Israeli troops or in clashes with Israeli settlers. The post Netanyahu says Israel ‘preparing’ Gaza ground war appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
How nations allow or restrict legal gender change
A small number of countries have made it easier for transgender people to change their legal gender, while other nations have restricted such changes, notably Russia and Pakistan. Here is a snapshot of the situation around the world. Exception, not the rule According to the International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA), 24 UN member states have legally allowed people to change their gender on the basis of self-identification. In about 40 other countries, the legal and administrative process can take years and may include requirements such as psychiatric diagnosis, hormone treatment, gender confirmation surgery, or even sterilization. Making it easier Argentina has led the way on transgender rights, allowing a change of gender on national ID cards with a simple declaration since 2012. Several Latin American countries have followed suit. Denmark was the first European country in 2014 to allow adults to apply for a gender change without undergoing medical or psychological assessments, with Belgium, Ireland, Malta, Norway, Portugal, and most recently Spain following suit. Since 2017, France has allowed transgender people to change their status on their ID documents without treatment, surgery, or sterilization but they must receive court approval. The issue of trans rights sparked a fierce row in 2022 in Scotland, where parliament passed a bill making it easier for people to self-identify their gender that was sensationally vetoed by London. The German cabinet in August 2023 signed off plans under which Germans will be able to change their name or legal gender by making a simple application to their local registry office. The law still has to go to parliament. Hesitating Sweden, one of the world's most liberal countries, was the first in the world to authorize physical and legal gender reassignment for adults in 1972. But last year it began restricting hormone therapy available for children diagnosed with gender dysphoria, such as puberty blockers, citing the need for caution following a strong increase in demand. It also restricted access to mastectomies for teenage girls wanting to transition. Finland in 2020 had already restricted hormone treatment for minors. Making it harder Russia adopted new legislation in July 2023 banning "medical interventions aimed at changing the sex of a person" and "the state registration of a change of gender without an operation". President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly railed against transgender rights in his speeches. Pakistan's religious judiciary ruled in May that landmark transgender legal protections from 2018 are un-Islamic and therefore void. An appeal is being sought with the Supreme Court. Pakistan continues to recognize the existence of a third gender, neither masculine nor feminine, as do India and Nepal. Restricting gender-affirming treatment, such as puberty blockers for minors, has become a major campaign of US conservatives. Arkansas in 2021 became the first US state to ban physicians and health workers from offering transition-related treatment to transgender minors. A federal judge in June overturned the ban. Around 20 states, including Florida and Texas, have passed similar laws. Anti-LGBTQ sentiment in Hungary has escalated during the rule of Viktor Orban's right-wing government. In May 2020, the country passed a law making it impossible for transgender people to change their name and gender on their ID documents. The post How nations allow or restrict legal gender change appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Israel says at ‘war’ after rocket barrages, militant infiltration
Palestinian militants have begun a "war" against Israel, the country's defense minister said Saturday after a barrage of rockets were fired and fighters from the Palestinian enclave infiltrated Israel, a major escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Violence between Israel and the Palestinians has been surging for almost two years, with fatalities in the occupied West Bank hitting a scale not seen in years. At least two people were killed in Israel, officials said. Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Palestinian militant group Hamas has "launched a war against the State of Israel." "Troops are fighting against the enemy at every location," he said in a statement. AFP journalists said Israel's military began air strikes on Gaza, following the rocket barrage from inside the territory which is sealed off from Israel by a militarized border barrier. "Dozens of IDF fighter jets are currently striking a number of targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip," the military said. Rockets had earlier streamed across the sky repeatedly after the first launches from multiple locations across the Palestinian territory from 6:30 am (0330 GMT), AFP journalists in Gaza City reported. The armed wing of Hamas, which controls Gaza, said it was behind the aerial assault, saying its militants had launched thousands of rockets and its fighters seized an Israeli tank. Israel's army did not immediately comment on the tank claim when contacted by AFP. Israeli security chiefs convened over the violence, which occurred on Shabbat and during a Jewish holiday. Air raid sirens wailed across southern and central Israel, and the army urged people to stay near bomb shelters. AFP journalists in Jerusalem heard multiple rockets being intercepted by Israeli air defense systems. Sirens blared across the city on more occasions than in any Gaza conflict in the past three years. "We decided to put an end to all the crimes of the occupation (Israel). Their time for rampaging without being held accountable is over," the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said. "We announce Operation Al-Aqsa Flood and we fired, in the first strike of 20 minutes, more than 5,000 rockets." Hundreds of Gazans flee Hundreds of residents fled their homes in eastern Gaza to move away from the border with Israel, an AFP correspondent said. Men, women and children carrying blankets and food left their homes, mostly in the northeastern part of the territory, the reporter said. Israel's military said Hamas launched "massive shooting of rockets", while at the same time "terrorists infiltrated into Israeli territory in a number of different locations". Hamas "will face the consequences and responsibility for these events", it said in a statement. In Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem, some Palestinian residents cheered and blew their car horns as sirens blared. A regional council for Israeli communities northeast of Gaza said its president was killed in an exchange of fire with attackers from Gaza. Separately, a woman in her 60s was killed "due to a direct hit" in Israel, the Magen David Adom emergency services said. Fifteen others were wounded, two of them seriously, medics said. An AFP photographer in the coastal city of Tel Aviv saw a gaping hole in a building, with residents gathered outside. Hamas calls to 'join battle' Hamas called on "the resistance fighters in the West Bank" as well as "our Arab and Islamic nations" to join the battle, in a statement posted on Telegram. The United States condemned the Hamas fire and urged "all sides to refrain from violence and retaliatory attacks." "Terror and violence solve nothing," the US Office of Palestinian Affairs wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Israel has imposed a crippling blockade on Gaza since 2007 after Hamas took power. Palestinian militants and Israel have fought several devastating wars since. The latest violence follows heightened tensions in September, when Israel closed the border to Gazan workers for two weeks. The shutdown of the crossing came as Palestinian demonstrators along the border burned tires and threw rocks and petrol bombs at Israeli troops, who responded with tear gas and live bullets. Resuming workers' passage on 28 September had raised hopes of calming the situation in impoverished Gaza, home to 2.3 million people. In May, an exchange of Israeli air strikes and Gaza rocket fire killed 34 Palestinians and one Israeli. So far this year at least 247 Palestinians, 32 Israelis and two foreigners have been killed in the conflict, including combatants and civilians on both sides, according to Israeli and Palestinian officials. The vast majority of fatalities have occurred in the West Bank, which has been occupied by Israel since the 1967 Arab-Israeli War. There has been a rise in army raids, Palestinian attacks targeting Israelis and Israeli settler violence against Palestinians and their property. The rising violence this year came against the backdrop of divisive judicial reforms introduced by the hard-right government of President Benjamin Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption charges he denies. Several far-right ministers in Netanyahu's cabinet live in West Bank settlements deemed illegal under international law. The post Israel says at ‘war’ after rocket barrages, militant infiltration appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cervical, breast cancer awareness stressed
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna called on all women residents of the city to be aware of the illnesses common to women as she pushed for the early detection of cervical and breast cancer. Lacuna aired the message as she was joined by Manila Health Department chief Dr. Arnold “Poks” Pangan, Vice Mayor Yul Servo, Department of Public Health Undersecretary Ma. Rosario Vergeire and Philippine Cancer Society Inc. program director Romeo Marcaida during the Intensified Cervical Cancer Screening for Manila City Hall employees held at the City Hall’s Freedom Triangle yesterday. In the said event, Lacuna described as “alarming” the fact that breast and cervical cancer are among the top killers in the country nowadays. She said that public hospitals have the capability to detect cancer at an early stage but lamentably, it is usually too late for many when the said illness is detected. As she also encouraged all female employees to have themselves tested, the mayor expressed concern over the increase in cases of cervical cancer, which is considered a “silent killer,” which manifests in its late stage already. The lady mayor urged all women in Manila to have themselves checked as she also called on parents to have their children aged nine to 14 vaccinated against human papillomavirus, the virus that causes most cervical cancers as well as some cancers of the anus, vulva, vagina and oropharynx or the back of throat including base of tongue and tonsils. She urged women aged 30 to 49 to have themselves screened for breast and cervical cancer where any abnormality may be detected at once. The post Cervical, breast cancer awareness stressed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Kids fighting cancer inspire Jodi Sta. Maria
To the public and fans, she’s Jodi Sta. Maria, screen superstar, best actress and teleserye queen. But to the children of Kythe Foundation, she’s their ate Jodi, their long-time supporter and friend......»»
‘Margaritaville’s’ Jimmy Buffett, 76
“Margaritaville” singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett has died on 1 September at his home in Sag Harbor, New York. He was 76. A statement from his official website reads: “Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs. He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many.” Buffett succumbed to Merkel cell skin cancer to which he was diagnosed four years ago. “He continued to perform during treatment,” the statement said while playing his last show, a surprise appearance in Rhode Island, in early July. Buffett, whose real name is James William Buffett, was born on Christmas day in 1946 in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and grew up in Alabama. He earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1969. He credited early years playing and singing in the streets and bars of New Orleans. Buffett’s recording career spans more than 50 years. His hits include “Margaritaville,” “Come Monday” and “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.” His fans call themselves “Parrot Heads.” He also wrote songs about his plane being shot at by Jamaican police (“Jamaica Mistaica”), getting lost in the Sahara Desert (“Buffet Hotel”) and smugglers he had known around the Florida Gulf Coast (“A Pirate Looks at 40”). Buffett also authored bestsellers on both the fiction and non-fiction lists of the New York Times Book Review. The bona fide business mogul put up diversified lifestyle brand businesses, such as Margaritaville hotels, restaurants and retirement communities, along with sidelines such as Land Shark beer. Buffett is survived by his wife of 46 years, Jane (Slagsvol) Buffett, his daughters Savannah Jane (Joshua) and Sarah Delaney, his son Cameron Marley (Lara), his grandson Marley Ray and devoted dogs Lola, Kingston, Pepper, Rosie, Ajax and Kody. He is also survived by his Montana sister, Laurie Buffett McGuane (Tom), their children Heather Hume, Anne Buffett McGuane, Maggie McGuane and Thomas McGuane IV; his Alabama sister, Lucy Buffett and daughters Mara Delaney Buffett O’Dwyer and Melanie Leigh Buffett “and many more wonderful cousins, nieces and nephews.” His family requests that donations be made to Jimmy Buffett’s Foundation Singing for Change, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana Farber Cancer Institute or MD Anderson Cancer Center. The post ‘Margaritaville’s’ Jimmy Buffett, 76 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
R. Magsaysay Award: 65 years of excellence
Established shortly after the tragic death in March 1957 of Ramon Magsaysay Sr., the seventh President of the Philippines, the Ramon Magsaysay Award, considered the equivalent of the Nobel Prize in Asia, preserves the beloved leader’s legacy by honoring individuals who are exceptionally outstanding in their fields. To be named a Ramon Magsaysay Awardee is to receive Asia’s premier prize and highest honor, and this year, the Award was bestowed on four individuals, including Filipina peace negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer who, in 2012, chaired the Philippine government’s Peace Panel tasked to negotiate peace with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front which led to the signing, in 2014, of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro by the Philippine government and the MILF. Coronel, who was recognized by the RMAF board of trustees for her “unwavering belief in the transformative power of non-violent strategies in peacebuilding and her devotion to the agenda of harnessing the power of women in creating a just and peaceful world,” is also co-founder of the Southeast Asian Women Peace mediators, the pioneering group of women engaged in convening safe spaces for dialogues and supporting mediation initiatives in countries like Myanmar and Afghanistan. Also named a recipient of the Award is Korvi Rakshand from Bangladesh who, in 2007, established the JAAGO (Bangladeshi for “wake up”) Foundation, a non-profit NGO aimed at addressing problems of access and quality of education for underprivileged children. From small beginnings, JAAGO has grown into one of the largest non-profit organizations in Bangladesh, providing free-of-cost government-recognized English language primary and secondary education to underprivileged children through 11 traditional and online schools in 10 districts in Bangladesh. Rakshand’s work with the underprivileged, his visionary leadership in democratizing education, and his inspiring thousands of young people to heed the call of social transformation have been recognized by the RMAF board of trustees and have bestowed on him the coveted Ramon Magsaysay Award. Agriculturist Eugenio Lemos, 51, was introduced to permaculture in 1999 and resolved that he would devote himself to promoting that kind of sustainable agriculture among his people. He established the Permakultura Timor-Lorosa’e, which includes a Youth Training Program that teaches youths water and natural resources management, farming, aquaculture, and agroforestry. Also a songwriter and a singer, Lemos communicates social issues through his songs. Recognizing Lemos’s vision and passion for integrating local and indigenous cultures in his advocacy for caring for the environment and the well-being of people, the RMAF has named him one of the four recipients of the Ramon Magsaysay Award this year. The fourth awardee is surgical oncologist, Dr. Ravi Kannan, who as director of the non-profit, philanthropy-funded Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Silchar, Barak Valley of Assam in India, expanded CCHRC into an innovative, widely admired full-service cancer care facility. From an institution with limited facilities, CCHRC, under Kannan’s leadership, is now a full-fledged comprehensive cancer hospital and research center. From a staff of 23 when he came on board, CCHRC now employs over 450 people. Kannan’s vision is CCHRC’s: “...to become a state-of-the-art cancer center that ensures no individual develops cancer that can be prevented; that no patient is denied appropriate cancer treatment for want of resources; that no patient dies in agony and indignity; and that no family suffers treatment-induced poverty and grief” — a bold statement that the hospital translates into actual practice. For his devotion to public service, commitment to pushing the boundaries of pro-poor health and cancer care, and for building — without expectation of any reward — a beacon of hope to millions in the Indian state of Assam, the RMAF board of trustees named Kannan one of this year’s recipients of the Ramon Magsaysay Award. This year’s awardees share qualities and “greatness of spirit” inherent in other such laureates as St. Teresa of Calcutta, the 14th Dalai Lama, Grameen Bank founder and Nobel Prize awardee Muhammad Yunnus, One Village One Product conceptualizer Morihiko Hiramatsu, and the rest of the over 300-plus recipients of the Award whose selfless devotion to public service and outstanding contributions to society have transformed Asia and serve as shining inspiration to the world. The post R. Magsaysay Award: 65 years of excellence appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Girl Battling with Leukemia Appeals for Help
A three-year-old girl from Purok1, Tampasan, Aloguinsan, Cebu is in dire need of financial assistance as she is currently fighting against cancer through chemotherapy. Kiara A. Cajuelan, “Kay-Kay,” to her family was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), a type of cancer of the blood which commonly affects children. Two months before she turned three […] The post Girl Battling with Leukemia Appeals for Help appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Canada PM Trudeau and wife announce separation
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Wednesday that he and his wife of 18 years, Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau, are separating. In a post on Instagram, the prime minister said "that after many meaningful and difficult conversations, we have made the decision to separate." A statement from his office added that the couple have signed "a legal separation agreement." It said the public can expect to continue seeing them and their three children together as "they remain a close family" and both parents will be a "constant presence in their children's lives." They asked for privacy ahead of a family vacation scheduled for next week. Trudeau and his wife, a former entertainment reporter, were childhood friends and reconnected in 2003 while co-hosting a charity ball. They soon started dating and married in 2005 in Montreal. They have three children together: Xavier, 15, Ella Grace, 14, and nine-year-old Hadrien. The separation is the first for a Canadian prime minister since Trudeau's late father Pierre Trudeau, who split from Margaret Trudeau in the late 1970s and eventually divorced in 1984 during his final months in office. Sunny days, heavy storms In his 2014 memoir "Common Ground," the younger Trudeau recalled that the "dark drama" at home and his parents' eventual divorce had been hard on him. His own breakup comes as Trudeau's ruling Liberals are struggling in the polls against the opposition Conservatives ahead of elections expected before the end of 2025. Trudeau announced last week a major shakeup in his cabinet with the stated goal of strengthening his economic team ahead of that looming campaign. This involved changing more than two-thirds of his political inner circle, with seven new recruits joining the cabinet and around 20 ministers reassigned to new roles. Sophie Gregoire, 48, had been a constant presence at her 51-year-old husband's side at political events over the past decade, as he took the party from third place to form a government in 2015, and through two more winning ballots in 2019 and 2021. But she has appeared in public less in recent years, at times lamenting the struggles of marriage, saying last year in a social media post that they had "navigated through sunny days, heavy storms and everything in between." Trudeau himself has also hinted at difficulties, writing in his memoir: "Our marriage isn't perfect, and we have had difficult ups and downs, yet Sophie remains my best friend, my partner, my love. We are honest with each other, even when it hurts." On their latest anniversary in May, Trudeau posted a photo online of the pair holding hands as they drove along a remote Canadian highway in a motor home, with the caption "Every mile of this journey together is an adventure. I love you Soph." The post Canada PM Trudeau and wife announce separation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Paul Reubens aka Pee-wee Herman dies of cancer at 70
Actor and comedian Paul Reubens, known for his portrayal of children’s TV star Pee-wee Herman, lost his life to cancer on 30 July at the age of 70. According to a statement posted on his Facebook account, Reubens “bravely and privately fought cancer for years with his trademark tenacity and wit.” “A gifted and prolific talent, he will forever live in the comedy pantheon and in our hearts as a treasured friend and man of remarkable character and generosity of spirit,” it added. The statement included a personal apology from Reubens on why he had kept his cancer diagnosis private. “Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years. I have always felt a huge amount of love and respect from my friends, fans, and supporters. I have loved you all so much and enjoyed making art for you,” he said. Reubens started his career in 1970 as part of the Los Angeles live comedy troupe Groundlings. He launched The Pee-wee Herman Show in 1980. The beloved children’s character was known for his white chunky loafers, red bow tie and the catchphrase “I know you are but what am I.” In 1991, Reubens was arrested for indecent exposure at an adult movie theater in Sarasota, Florida, a controversy that dealt a major blow to his career. He reprised the iconic children’s role on Broadway in 2010. Variety reports that before his death, Reubens was working on two Pee-wee Herman projects, the black comedy The Pee-wee Herman Story and the family adventure film Pee-wee’s Playhouse: The Movie. The post Paul Reubens aka Pee-wee Herman dies of cancer at 70 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gov’t committed to improving healthcare
PAMPANGA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that his government is working “relentlessly” to make sure that all Filipinos had access to health care as he intends to build more health centers in rural areas. The Chief Executive made the remark as he inspected the building of a new multi-specialty medical center in Clark, Pampanga, which he said was part of his administration’s efforts to advance quality healthcare to Filipinos. “Rest assured, this administration is determined to bring quality healthcare and services closer to (the) Filipino people... We will not stop until every Filipino can say they have good access to quality healthcare,” he said in his speech during Clark Multi-Specialty Medical Center’s groundbreaking ceremony. The President thanked the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, the Clark Development Corporation and other government agencies for spearheading the establishment of the CMSMC. The project is a collaboration between government agencies and private sector entities, including the Department of Health, Bases Conversion and Development Authority, PAGCOR, CDC and Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc. of business tycoon Enrique Razon. He urged the public to be part of the solution to the lack of healthcare facilities in the country since access to healthcare is a fundamental right and not a privilege. In a speech during the briefing and site inspection Marcos said it was unbearable for him to see a fellow Filipino in pain or distress due to the insufficient healthcare system in the Philippines. “I cannot forget the reason healthcare has been such an important part of this administration not only because of the experience that we have had in the pandemic in the last two to three years, but also with the guiding understanding and idea that any person cannot enjoy success if they do not also enjoy good health,” Marcos said. He said the government is committed to improving healthcare access for all Filipinos. He announced that the government will establish primary healthcare facilities and specialty centers nationwide. After completion, the CMSMC will comprise a range of specialized centers and healthcare services, including a heart center, lung center, kidney center, cancer center and a children’s hospital. “This is not a single project that stands on its own alone,” he said. “This is part of a larger system of healthcare provision that we are putting together to service our kababayans (compatriots),” Marcos said. The President also underscored his goal of giving poor Filipinos access to medical treatments as he said that he wants the government to bring the healthcare down to the people. “We will establish rural healthcare units. We will establish barangay centers. We will establish botica de barangay,” Marcos said. “This is part of a larger system of healthcare provision that we are putting together to service our kababayans so that they do not have to wait to get very, very sick before they go to the big hospitals,” he added. He explained that the Covid-19 pandemic was part of the reason why his government puts healthcare at the top of its list of priorities, because the country needs to be ready in case there is another major health crisis. The post Gov’t committed to improving healthcare appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Singapore parliament speaker, MP resign over affair
Singapore's parliament speaker and a woman MP resigned Monday over an "inappropriate" affair, plunging the ruling party into further turmoil following a rare high-level corruption probe involving a cabinet minister. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said he accepted the resignations of speaker Tan Chuan Jin and MP Cheng Li Hui to "maintain the high standards of propriety and personal conduct" of the People's Action Party. He said they were in an "inappropriate relationship" that continued even after he had told them to stop in February. The political drama was the latest development to rock the PAP, which has ruled Singapore uninterrupted for 64 years and has prided itself on a corruption-free government. Last week, Transport Minister S. Iswaran was arrested by the city-state's powerful Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau in a rare probe into high-level corruption. He is out on bail and is helping the bureau with its investigation. Before that, two senior cabinet ministers were probed for alleged irregularities in their rental of sprawling housing properties in the land-scarce nation, but both were subsequently cleared of any wrongdoing. "Taken together, I would say that this is the most severe political crisis to hit the ruling party since 1986 when the minister for national development was investigated for corruption," said political analyst Eugene Tan. "I think public trust and confidence in the ruling party would be significantly affected. And that puts the ruling party very much on the defensive," Tan, an associate professor of law at the Singapore Management University, added. 'No system is infallible' Elections must be called no later than November 2025, with a younger generation of leaders expected to take the lead. Lee had earlier said he would hand over leadership to his deputy Lawrence Wong, although no timing was given. Lee told reporters that the 54-year-old speaker, who is married with two children, offered to resign earlier this year when he spoke to him about the affair. Lee accepted his resignation but it was to take effect when arrangements for his replacement for his district were made. The prime minister also said he told the speaker to end the affair. "But very recently, I came across information that strongly suggested that the relationship had continued," Lee said. Tan, in a letter to the prime minister, said he needed to step down from politics to focus on his family. "I have let them down... I need to take responsibility for them and help heal my family," he wrote. Analyst Tan said the PAP losing its two thirds majority in parliament was now "within the realm of possibility" unless the party makes a swift recovery. But Mustafa Izzuddin, a political analyst with consultancy Solaris Strategies, described the issues rocking the PAP as "more of a minor shock than a major crisis". "It does, however, enable the party to take a pause and engage in critical reflection while assuring the domestic populace that it continues to uphold the highest moral and political standards which are of paramount importance at the time of leadership transition and in preparation for the next general election," he told AFP. Premier Lee, asked if there was an erosion in PAP standards, said that "from time to time these things happen" but assured that the party was dealing with the issues decisively. "No system can be completely infallible," he said. The post Singapore parliament speaker, MP resign over affair appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Representation
The performance grading report for this administration will be out soon as the President delivers his second State of the Nation Address, or SoNA, this coming July 24th. It will be interesting to see how our government fared in the eyes of the public, and while the attention will be on the Executive Branch and the Cabinet of President Bongbong Marcos Jr., we will also get the chance to assess the performance of the VP, the Senate, the House of Representatives, and the Judiciary as well. And every time this comes up, we always raise the question of whether we are truly represented and heard by our government. Of course, in the Executive, there is no doubt about this, as there is a Cabinet portfolio for every sector of our society, and it’s not really a question of existence but of performance and delivery. As for the Senate, we are supposed to have 24 senators, and it would have been ideal if they were voted on a regional basis, meaning one for each of the 17 regions, plus perhaps an additional one for each of the autonomous regions and NCR. But the current setup is far from ideal, and we vote for the senators at large, so we are not really represented as far as the prevailing national interests are concerned. Personally, I find it redundant, and we should really bat for better representation in the Senate. For the House of Representatives, it is res ipsa loquitur. Three hundred and sixteen (316) congressmen currently are supposed to be occupying seats in the Batasang Pambansa, with an amalgam of administrative, autonomous, sectoral, and marginal representation. In our ideal notion, it is in the HOR where we ordinary citizens can really seek answers to questions —generally on our welfare and development, and particularly on our need for basic services. In the British Parliament, the equivalent of the HOR is called the House of Commons, so you can already deduce why is it called that. Still, we ask — are we and our interests as citizens of this nation being represented by our congressmen? Are we being heard? And is there equality in representation? Take the case of the Zamboanga del Norte’s 1st congressional district, which comprises seven municipalities plus the city of Dapitan. Currently, it has no representative sitting in the House, even if there is an elected one (Romeo Jalosjos Jr). Why is the House leadership not acting on this case to seriously resolve the issue? Right now, no one is attending to the needs of the district’s constituents, and the LGUs have been calling out Speaker Martin Romualdez to address this concern, lest there be suspicions of political flexing and power play. With the upcoming SoNA comes the resumption of Congress sessions, and it will be a great disservice to the people of the Zamboanga del Norte 1st district if they do not have a voice in the only chamber of government where they can truly be heard. It is unfair to them, especially at a time when most of the regions in our country have been moving forward. It is an injustice that they are being left behind and abandoned like children without a parent or guardian. Figuratively, this is an anomaly that should be corrected as soon as possible. As it is with all the other cases in Congress of a similar nature. Because we all deserve the representation that we are entitled to. It is not a privilege, but a right. Mark my word. The post Representation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Govt committed to improving healthcare access—PBBM
PAMPANGA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday urged the public to be part of the solution to the lack of healthcare facilities in the country since access to healthcare is a fundamental right and not a privilege. In a speech during the briefing and site inspection of the Clark Multi-Specialty Medical Center (CMSMC) in Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga, Marcos said it was unbearable for him to see a fellow Filipino in pain or distress caused by the insufficient healthcare system in the Philippines. "I cannot forget the reason healthcare has been such an important part of this administration not only because of the experience that we have had in the pandemic in the last two to three years, but also with the guiding understanding and idea that any person cannot enjoy success if they do not also enjoy good health,” Marcos said. Marcos said the government is committed to improving healthcare access for all Filipinos. He announced that the government would establish primary healthcare facilities and specialty centers nationwide. "This is not a single project that stands on its own alone," he said. "This is part of a larger system of healthcare provision that we are putting together to service our kababayans (fellowmen)," Marcos said. Meanwhile, Marcos thanked the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), the Clark Development Corporation, and other government agencies for spearheading the CMSMC. After completion, the CMSMC will comprise a range of specialized centers and healthcare services, including a heart center, lung center, kidney center, cancer center, and a hospital dedicated to children. The project involves collaboration between government agencies and private sector entities, including the Department of Health, Bases Conversion and Development Authority, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, Clark Development Corporation, and Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc. The post Govt committed to improving healthcare access—PBBM appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
National Health and Beauty Caravan 2023 culminates at SM Mall of Asia
Beauty and wellness reigned supreme at the culmination of the biggest health and beauty caravan in the country at the SM Mall of Asia on June 28 and 29, 2023. In partnership with the Philippine Hairdressers Association (PhilHair) and the Philippine Red Cross, this year’s National Health and Beauty Caravan aimed to give new life to the beauty industry through an exhibition of health, beauty, and wellness products, a showcase of Filipino talent through a hair and makeup competition, and a search for beauty and wellness ambassadors from all over the country. “I would like to thank PhilHair on behalf of Mr. Hans Sy and the SM family for launching the Health and Beauty Caravan in 22 malls nationwide, with the goal of discovering and awarding our creative and innovative local talents,” said SM Supermalls Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin. Mr. and Ms. Health and Beauty Ambassadors 2023 Fifty candidates from 25 SM malls nationwide competed for the most-coveted title of Mr. and Ms. Health and Beauty Ambassadors 2023 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on June 28. The candidates flaunted their stunning physiques at the competition and showed the crowd what they got during the activewear and formal wear competitions. From there, the judges chose the Top 5 female and male candidates who then advanced to the Question and Answer portion of the competition. In the end, Mr. SM Muntinlupa Louie Faundo and Ms. SM Olongapo Central Missia Ishikawa were hailed as this year’s Mr. and Ms. Health and Beauty Ambassadors and took home Php 40,000 worth of prizes. “This is the best contest in the country! Here, we talk not only about beauty but also focus on health. With the Mr. and Ms. Health and Beauty Ambassadors 2023 competition, we’re able to show that beauty and health go hand in hand,” said PhilHair president Ricky Reyes. The competition’s panel of judges included the country presidents of the Asia Pacific Hairdressers & Cosmetologists Association including Airene Wang (Malaysia), Sun Heang (Cambodia), Edward Wong (Singapore), Wong Kwok Wa (China), Sherly Sheik (Hong Kong), Chao Ka Cheong (Macau), Theresa Tam (Thailand), and Chen Jiong Ming (Thailand). Completing the judges were Carousel Productions’ Peachy Veneracion and Miss Philippines Earth-Water 2022 Angel Santos. Hair and Makeup Trends 2023 Meanwhile, the caravan’s makeup and hair competition culminated on June 29, 2023. Participants showcased their talents and skills in Masquerade Evening Party Makeup, Bridal Makeup, Unisex Color Styling Competition, and Rebond Plus. Each had a model to stylize and beautify who then came up onstage to showcase the stylized hair and makeup. Daniel Forro was named the champion of the Masquerade Event Makeup, Paulo Torda for Bridal Makeup, Trisha Marquez for Rebond Plus, and Marvin Habla for the Unisex Color Styling Competition. It’s a celebration of beauty and health like no other Aside from the exhibition of beauty experts, well-being was also underscored during the caravans. Representatives from the Philippine Red Cross conducted blood typing and medical training and provided medical assistance to women and children in the communities surrounding the mall. “Beauty and health work in tandem and SM is proud to partner with PhilHair to reach more communities in the country with this important message,” Mr. San Agustin closed. The National Health and Beauty Caravan 2023 was made possible with the help of China Bank, Watsons, Binondo Beauty Supply, Bremod, Bio-Reach, Kemans, and the Philippine Cancer Society. To know more about exciting deals on anything wellness and beauty at SM, make sure to log on to www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on all social media platforms. The post National Health and Beauty Caravan 2023 culminates at SM Mall of Asia appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Vitamin D and your health
Of the numerous supplements on the market, many are turning to vitamin D to improve their health. But is vitamin D absolutely necessary to be healthy? Vitamins are substances that the body needs in order to properly function -- vitamins A, B1 to 12, C, D, E and K, to name a few. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, the primary component of our bones. A lack of calcium and vitamin D in childhood can lead to weak, misshapen bones, while a deficiency in adults can lead to softening of the bones which can also make them prone to break. Vitamin D is important in other parts of the body as well. If you don’t have enough vitamin D you can have low calcium levels which can cause fatigue, muscle cramps and tingling around the lips and hands. Vitamin D has also been associated with improving muscle strength, skin disorders such a psoriasis, cancer, fertility, diabetes and the immune system. Most vitamins are not made in the body and have to be ingested through food or supplements. Vitamin D is the exception, because it can be made by the body when your skin is exposed to direct sunlight. But it’s not just any sunlight that you need, but a particular wavelength of UVB light, the kind that only occurs midday, around 10 am to 2 pm. You need about 15-30 minutes of direct sunlight, with bare arms and legs without the use of sunblock. The amount of time spent in the sun also depends on the coloring of your skin. Those with fairer skin and tan easily need less time. If you cannot get effective sun exposure, vitamin D must be ingested through tablets or food, but unfortunately it is not found in a lot of the things we eat. Some sources of vitamin D are fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines. Mushrooms and egg yolks also have some vitamin D. In some countries some foods are actually fortified with vitamin D, like milk, orange juice and cereal. [caption id="attachment_148146" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of unsplash/ micheile-henderson | SOME cereals are fortified with vitamin D.[/caption] The recommended daily intake of vitamin D for Filipinos is 200 international units in children, and 400-600 IU in adults, and taking a daily multivitamin with some vitamin D may be enough. You do not need to take large doses of vitamin D unless you have a deficiency, and this can be checked with a simple blood test. Depending on your level of vitamin D deficiency, your doctor will prescribe a certain dose of a vitamin D supplement and you should have another blood test after a month to see if your levels have improved. You might then need a higher or lower dose, as the level of absorption of vitamin D can vary among different people. When taken in appropriate doses, vitamin D is generally considered safe. The usual dose to treat a vitamin D deficiency can range from 800 IU to 2000 IU per tablet of vitamin D3 or cholecalciferol. If you are taking more than 4,000 IU per day, this should be done under the supervision of a doctor. With too much vitamin D you can develop high levels of calcium, with symptoms of nausea and vomiting, constipation, mental confusion and kidney stones. [caption id="attachment_148145" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph courtesy of unsplash/daniela Chavez | ORANGE juice has many health nutrients and vitamin D[/caption] It has been found that three out of five Filipinos are vitamin D deficient. If you are concerned about whether you are getting enough vitamin D, ask your doctor and whether a vitamin supplement might benefit you. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication, including vitamins and supplements. And let your doctor know about any other medications and supplements you are taking because these might interact with vitamin D. The post Vitamin D and your health appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mayon simmers; funds assured
State volcanologists reported that Mayon Volcano produced fewer rockfalls and volcanic earthquakes on Thursday. Two volcanic tremors and 306 rockfall occurrences were recorded by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology between 5 a.m. Wednesday and 5 a.m. Thursday. The volcano recorded 309 rockfall events in the previous update, along with seven volcanic temblors. Mayon, however, showed a modest rise in sulfur dioxide flux, going from 149 tons per day to 193 tons per day. Since 8 June, the volcano has been on Alert Level 3 due to “potential explosive activity happening within days or weeks,” according to Phivolcs. Volcanologists said the volcano’s unrest may continue for a few months based on observations and past eruptions. Meanwhile, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. yesterday vowed quick response to Mayon’s unrest and the needs of the thousands of evacuees. Marcos pledged funds and other assistance to the affected province of Albay on the sidelines of a Department of Trade and Industry forum. “Whatever is needed, we will have to provide. Many people are already helping, all agencies are already engaged in their rehabilitation efforts, in the support for the evacuees,” he said. The government, he said, “must be sensitive” to the needs of the province during the emergency as each municipality faces different difficulties in carrying out quick response operations. He spoke about the elderly who need to take their medication, workers who had to leave their employment, and the children and parents whose mental and physical health are affected at the evacuation centers. “I think in terms of actual funding, I think, as far as I know, we have a budget for that but my instruction to them is to assess thoroughly, and not just keep giving money,” Marcos said. “You have to check what their problems are so we can fix them, and if it takes cash then that’s well and good, but sometimes it’s not cash,” he added. He instructed Cabinet officials to “take the load off” Albay in terms of quick response funding as Mayon’s restiveness may last from 45 to 90 days. “If it takes cash, then that’s good. Well and good. But sometimes, it’s not cash. We have been discussing what to do about the hampered education of the children; they cannot go to school. These are other issues are basically not quantifiable but they are important,” Marcos said. “The issues of the mental health of those children, even the parents. We need to think about them because what they are going through is really difficult. So we have to give all the support that we can,” he added. Latest data from the National Risk Reduction and Management Council showed that 9,167 families or 37,682 individuals were forced to evacuate due to Mayon’s restiveness. Of the number, 17,914 were counted as displaced persons staying in the 25 activated evacuation centers or temporary shelters. The remainder are staying with relatives or friends. The Philippine Army has conducted humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations for 15,000 evacuees from Albay’s 23 barangays since 10 June. The government has so far provided more than P37.3 million to assist affected residents. The Office of Civil Defense said it has extended additional assistance to the Albay government, including the provision of 3,200 sacks of rice and other relief items such as tarpaulin rolls, N95 masks, family food packs, hygiene kits, pelican cases, portable water filtration units, and a water filtration truck to Albay to assist residents of affected areas. The post Mayon simmers; funds assured appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM hails, mourns ex-Sen. Rodolfo Biazon
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., on Tuesday expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family of former Senator Rodolfo "Pong" Biazon, who died on Monday at the age of 88. "We mourn the loss of a distinguished public servant, a former Armed Forces chief and legislator who dedicated his life to serving the country and the Filipino people," Marcos said in a tweet. "The thoughts and prayers of a grateful nation are with his family as we remember his remarkable service to the nation," he added. The President also acknowledged the tremendous contributions Senator Biazon made to the country and expressed gratitude for his remarkable service. "He was highly respected by his colleagues and by the public for being opinionated, conscientious and virtuous as he fought for his mission and advocacies," Marcos said. Biazon, who was diagnosed with lung cancer in July 2022, suffered pneumonia this year that led to the further weakening of his lungs, his son Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon shared. “The family is grateful that we were able to spend his last moments with us intimately and peacefully,” the mayor added. In a post on Sunday, the younger Biazon said the former lawmaker was confined at a hospital for serious pneumonia. Biazon is survived by his wife Monserrat Narag Bunoan and children Ruffy, Richie and Rino. Hailing from Batac in Ilocos Norte, Biazon served as a member of the House of Representatives from 2010 to 2016. He also made history as the first military general from the Philippine Marine Corps of the Philippine Navy to become the Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. In 1957, Biazon decided to enroll in the Philippine Military Academy, where he graduated as the "class goat" -- the cadet who finishes last -- of the PMA Class of 1961. However, this did not deter him from achieving excellence. He went on to hold significant positions such as the Superintendent of PMA from 1986 to 1987, Commandant of the Philippine Marines from 1987 to 1989, Commanding General of the NCR Defense Command from 1988 to 1990, Vice Chief of Staff of the AFP from 1990 to 1991, and finally, Chief of the AFP in 1991. He served as a senator in the Ninth Congress from 1992 to 1995 and was reelected as a senator from 1998 to 2004. During his tenure, Biazon held important positions as Chairman of the Senate Committees on National Defense and Security, as well as Urban Planning, Housing, and Resettlement. As a senator, Biazon made significant legislative contributions, authoring several laws, including the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 (Republic Act 9208), the Rental Reform Act of 2002 (RA 9161), the Comprehensive and Integrated Shelter Finance Act (RA 7835) and the Modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (RA 7898). The post PBBM hails, mourns ex-Sen. Rodolfo Biazon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Senators mourn passing of former Senator Rodolfo Biazon
Senators on Monday expressed their deepest condolences and sympathy to the family of former Senator and Armed Forces chief of staff Rodolfo Biazon, who passed away earlier in the day at the age of 88. Shortly after Muntinlupa Mayor Rufino Biazon announced his father’s death due to lung cancer, senators paid their tributes to the former lawmaker. Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri described the passing of Biazon as “bittersweet,” as it coincided with the country’s 125th Independence Day. “This is a bittersweet Independence Day, as the nation mourns the passing of Senator Rodolfo Biazon, one of our staunchest defenders of the peace and democracy that we are enjoying today,” Zubiri said in a statement. He noted that he considered it a “gift” to have been a novice senator during a time when Biazon was still in office. “I had the great fortune of learning from him, and being inspired by his uncompromising public service — not just as a veteran legislator but also as a veteran military man, having been the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. He brought that same military discipline and commitment to his work in the Senate, and to every aspect of his life as a public servant,” he said. “I am grateful for the time that we spent in the Senate together, and I am glad we had one last chance to reconnect with him last October when he attended the Senate reunion. He was as bright and astute as ever, and a fountain of guidance and wisdom for those of us currently in the Senate,” he added. He continued: “My prayers and condolences go out to his family, friends and to the people whom he served with dedication as a senator, congressman and as a member of the uniformed service.” ‘True officer, public servant’ Likewise, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda paid her tribute to Biazon, whom she described as a “true officer and public servant.” “His unwavering commitment to our nation's security and welfare will forever be remembered. He can now peacefully rest in the arms of our Creator,” Legarda said in a separate statement. “I express my deepest sympathies and condolences to his wife Monchie, and children Richie, Rino and Mayor Ruffy. We pray that in this time of grief, they may find comfort in our prayers and heartfelt condolences,” she added. Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros said she is one with the nation in mourning the passing of Biazon, who was a “great soldier, statesman, and solon.” “He passed on this Independence Day, a reminder of his formidable, lifelong fight for our Inang Bayan,” Hontiveros said. “Indeed, much can be said about all that he has done for the Filipino people, from his time as a Philippine Marine to his years in Congress, but what remained true all throughout was his unwavering love for the Philippines.” The lady lawmaker recalled the “unforgettable moment” when she personally met Biazon at the EDSA Shrine in 2001. “Long before I met him in person, I read about Sen. Pong in an 1981 Who magazine feature about his being a Marines commander in Davao. I remember being taken by his critical mind and his respect for human rights, qualities essential for an officer and a gentleman,” she said. “Years later, I finally met him at the EDSA Shrine just when EDSA Dos was unfolding. It was unforgettable not only because he had a crushing handshake, but also because it was the start of the many struggles we fought together,” she added. Hontiveros also highlighted Biazon’s dedication to serving the nation even when he was no longer in office. “When the former administration could not express a clear stance vis-a-vis China’s incursions in the West Philippine Sea, Sen. Pong did not hold back from calling on our top officials to take a united position against China,” she said. “Time and again, when he saw that our nation was in peril, he stepped out from his private life and gave us public servants clarity and a sense of direction,” she added. She also commended Biazon for being a “steady source of strength for us women and women’s advocates in our fight for the passage of the Reproductive Health Law.” “Regarded as macho due to his military background, he challenged stereotypes to stand not just for, but with women,” she said. “That was Sen. Pong I knew — never afraid to stand up and speak out for what is right even when others wouldn’t. Goodbye, sir. Thank you very much for your never-ending love for the Philippines,” she added. Biazon served as a senator for two consecutive terms, from 1992 to 1995 after being convinced to run for office by Paul Aquino, the brother of the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. Three years after his first stint as senator, he was elected again in 1998 and continued to serve until 2010. The post Senators mourn passing of former Senator Rodolfo Biazon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Senate greenlights Regional Specialty Centers Act
The Senate on Monday passed on third and final reading the Regional Specialty Centers Act as 24 senators agreed to pass the measure, which is one of the priority measures in the Common Legislative Agenda of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council. Senate Bill 2212, sponsored by Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go and authored by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, seeks to establish regional specialty centers in all regions of the country. “These regional specialty centers are a way for us to bring medical services closer to our countrymen, especially the poor,” Go said. The centers will provide specialized medical care, such as cancer treatment, heart care, and kidney care, to Filipinos who live in far-flung areas and will also be equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed with highly-trained medical professionals. In his manifestation, Go said that the passage of the bill is a “major step” in improving the country’s healthcare system, adding that the centers will “make quality healthcare more accessible to Filipinos, especially those who live in rural areas.” Go also thanked his colleagues in the Senate for their support of the bill. He said that the passage of the bill is a “testament to the commitment of the Senate to improving the lives of Filipinos.” The bill aims to establish up to 53 specialty centers throughout the country by 2028, in an effort to decentralize the services of specialty centers such as the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, the Philippine Heart Center, the Lung Center of the Philippines, and the National Kidney and Transplant Institute which are all located in Manila. Zubiri, meantime, stressed that the approval of the measure in the Senate is a “fulfilment” of his promise during last year’s campaign. Meantime, Go has reiterated his support for the re-imposition of the death penalty in cases involving heinous crimes related to illegal drugs as he stressed that there is a need to instill fear in criminals and highlighted the devastating impact of drug-related offenses on countless innocent lives and families. He added that the death penalty, if implemented, can be a deterrent to heinous crimes. Go said that there should be consequences for those who take the lives of others. The senator then highlighted the efforts of former president Rodrigo Duterte to combat the illegal drug trade and the ensuing problems it brought to society. According to Go, when drugs flood the streets, crime and corruption inevitably follow. The post Senate greenlights Regional Specialty Centers Act appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»