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Bong Go inspects Siniloan isolation facility
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, personally inspected the isolation facility at the Siniloan Infirmary Hospital in Siniloan, Laguna on Friday, 25 August. Go, also the vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has supported the said project during the Duterte administration. The senator, an adopted son of CALABARZON, was also joined by Vice Governor Karen Agapay, Mayor Patrick Go, Vice Mayor Carla Valderrama, and Councilors Carl Anthony Puño, Regie De Jesus, and Councilor Ronald Valeroso, among others. "Maraming salamat po Kuya Bong. Ang bayan po ng Siniloan ay taos-pusong nagpapasalamat sa inyong pagdalaw at kami po ay binibigyan niyo ng suporta. Ang sarili naming Infirmary Hospital ay parang Malasakit Center na rin dahil ang mga kapos nating kababayan na lumalapit doon ay nabibigyan natin ng direktang libreng pag-gagamot. Kaya Kuya Bong, maraming maraming salamat po. Talagang 'Go cares'," Mayor Go expressed. Go’s visit not only underscored his dedication to serving the Filipino people but also highlighted the critical need to bolster the nation's health sector, particularly in the wake of the devastating effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the inspection, the senator engaged in conversations with the local officials and even healthcare workers to gain firsthand insights into the challenges faced by the health sector. “Sinusuportahan naman natin ang inyong Infirmary Hospital dito po sa Siniloan at gaya ng sinabi ko kung ano po ang makakatulong sa Siniloan sa pag-unlad ng inyong bayan at makatulong po sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan dito po sa Siniloan ay handa po akong tumulong sa abot ng aking makakaya ay tutulong po ako dito po sa inyong bayan,” said Go in an interview after his visit. Go has consistently stressed the importance of continuous investments in healthcare infrastructure, personnel, and equipment especially in the community level. He pointed out that the pandemic had exposed vulnerabilities in the health sector and underscored the need for proactive measures to ensure that the country is better equipped to handle future health crises. Through a series of innovative initiatives, including Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers (SHCs), and Regional Specialty Centers (RSCs), Go underscored his unwavering commitment to ensuring that all Filipinos have access to quality medical assistance and services. Malasakit Centers, a brainchild of Senator Go, act as one-stop shops that consolidate the available medical assistance programs of various government agencies, ensuring that poor and indigent patients can readily access the support they need. Since its inception in 2018, Malasakit Centers have provided invaluable assistance to more than seven million patients, alleviating the financial burdens that often accompany medical treatments. There are currently 158 operational centers nationwide, including those at Laguna Medical Center in Sta. Cruz and San Pablo City General Hospital in San Pablo City. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. Meanwhile, Go’s vision of a more improved healthcare sector extends to the establishment of SHCs, which aim to offer comprehensive healthcare services to communities, especially in underserved areas. Such centers are set to be established in cities such as Calamba, Cabuyao, Sta. Rosa, San Pedro, San Pablo, and Biñan, as well as in the towns of Alaminos, Mabitac, Calauan, Los Baños, and Sta. Maria. The SHCs will offer a wide range of services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center, and telemedicine, through which remote diagnosis and treatment of patients are made possible. Through the concerted efforts of the Department of Health (DOH) and lawmakers, adequate funding has been allocated in the national budget for the establishment of 307 SHCs in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. “Ang maganda po diyan early detection, primary care, checkup, konsulta. Diyan ho kayo magpakonsulta sa Super Health Center na itinatayo sa inyong lugar. Early detection (para) hindi lumala ang sakit. It will help decongest sa hospitals, madi-decongest po ang mga hospitals dahil diyan na po gagamutin sa mga Super Health Center,’ Go said. Recognizing the need for specialized care, Go has also championed the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers. These centers focus on specific medical fields, ensuring that patients receive expert care without the need to travel long distances to urban centers. In the Senate, Go principally sponsored and is one of the authors of Senate Bill No. 2212, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which was recently approved and signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. into law. “Pangatlong prayoridad ko po bilang chairman ng Committee on Health ito pong establishing regional specialty center. Maglalagay po ng mga specialty center sa mga DOH regional hospital sa buong Pilipinas. It’s a multiyear plan po. Halimbawa, (kung may problema sa) heart, kidney, lung, neonatal, mental, ito pong mga ortho sa mga may karamdaman sa buto, cancer. Ilalagay na po sa lahat ng DOH regional hospital sa buong Pilipinas para ilapit po natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan,” explained Go. “Ako po ang (isa sa mga) author at (principal) sponsor niyan sa Senado at pasado na ‘yan, napirmahan na po ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos dahil priority po ito ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos. Establishing specialty center in every DOH regional hospital all over the country,” he added. On the same day, Go personally inspected the town’s Sports Complex and provided assistance to 500 struggling residents. The post Bong Go inspects Siniloan isolation facility appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go assists various sectoral groups in North Cotabato
The Office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go provided assistance to disadvantaged residents of Libungan, North Cotabato on Thursday, 24 August, as part of the senator’s continuing efforts to ensure Filipino families get the support they need from the government. “Nandirito ngayon ang aking opisina para makatulong, makabigay ng mga solusyon sa kanilang mga problema, makatulong po sa mga pasyente lalung-lalo na po ‘yung mga mahihirap nating mga kababayan, at makapag-iwan po ng kaunting ngiti sa panahon ng kanilang pagdadalamhati,” Go said through a video message. Go’s team held the activity at the University of Southern Mindanao Extension in Libungan where they assisted 110 struggling residents. The senator’s staff distributed shirts, vitamins, masks, and snacks to the residents, and gave away balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also extended financial assistance to each individual. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, emphasized the significance of Malasakit Centers in delivering healthcare services to people across the country. These centers serve as one-stop shops where various government agencies collaborate and offer a streamlined and convenient approach for individuals to access medical assistance programs. In a bid to alleviate the burden of struggling individuals and families, and improve their access to essential healthcare services, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers in 2018. It was institutionalized in 2019 through Republic Act No. 11463 which Go principally authored and sponsored in the Senate. Since then, the program has helped more than seven million indigent patients, according to the Department of Health (DOH). “Mayroon na po tayong 158 na Malasakit Center sa buong Pilipinas na laging handang tumulong sa ating mga kababayan. Meron po kayong Malasakit Center sa Cotabato Provincial Hospital dyan sa Kidapawan City. Ang Malasakit Center po batas na ‘yan na isinulong ko noon, pinirmahan ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte. One stop shop po ‘yan, nasa loob na po ng hospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno – PhiliHealth, PCSO, DOH, DSWD. Tutulungan po kayo, para po ‘yan sa mga poor and indigent patients,” Go explained. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has supported the construction of various bridges in Alamada, Arakan, Kabacan, Makilala, Pikit, and Tulunan; concreting of farm-to-market roads in Alamada, Banisilan, Libungan, Makilala, Midsayap, and President Roxas; construction of multi-purpose buildings in Kidapawan City, Arakan, Pigcawayan, and Makilala; construction of drainage canals in Kabacan and Pikit; construction of public market buildings in Arakan and Pigcawayan; construction of a slaughterhouse in Arakan; construction of Liga Office in Makilala; and construction of a perimeter fence for the City Government Complex in Kidapawan City. Additionally, he has supported road concreting in Kidapawan City, Banisilan, President Roxas, and Midsayap; rehabilitation and improvement of the Pikit Main Drainage Canal in Pikit; and construction of potable water system facilities in Tulunan. “Minsan lang tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa ay gawin na po natin ngayon dahil hindi na po tayo babalik sa mundong ito. Iyan po ang totoo," said Go. "Ako po ang inyong Senador Kuya Bong Go, kasama ng mga lingkod bayan na narito, patuloy po ako na magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat.” Go reminded. The post Bong Go assists various sectoral groups in North Cotabato appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Digitalization: Walking the talk
In our 28 July article, we spoke about the President’s State of the Nation Address or SoNA. If you recall, he ended the SoNA by stating, “I know that the state of the nation is sound and is improving. Dumating na po ang Bagong Pilipinas.” Among the pillars he mentioned to support and substantiate is the digitalization efforts of this administration. We lifted a couple of direct quotes from the SONA, but we wish to highlight a couple more for today’s article, namely: “Digitalization is the call of today; not the call of the future — but of the present. It is here. It is needed, and it is needed today.” “Digitalization will support the government’s data-driven and science-based planning and decision-making. It is the greatest, most powerful tool, not just to improve the ease of doing business, but also against many forms of graft and corruption.” Just last Tuesday, 22 August, a Department of Budget and Management press release shared the belief that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. fully supports the creation of an e-marketplace where government entities may directly procure products for their needs, like online shopping platforms. In this, PBBM is hitting two birds with one stone. Not only is he advancing his call for digitalization, but he is also putting into practice the policies behind Republic Act 11032, also known as the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018. In addition, there are other points related to this that are worth highlighting. DBM again has shared the very encouraging possibilities they are exploring and working on. It was explained that the idea is to help get rid of the lengthy process of public bidding for certain products, as government entities can buy straight from the virtual market. To ensure the quality of the merchandise to be bought and the dependability of their suppliers, there will be a mechanism to qualify and identify which are the right products and suppliers that will be placed in this marketplace. Whatever and whoever they shall be, it is expected that the featured products will be of excellent quality, are available, and fitting to the real and varied needs of the government. The push for digitalization has nowadays become more important given the government’s desire, for one, to realistically address the complex issues surrounding the Procurement Act which has long been due for review and needed amendments. In maximizing existing digital platforms, how do you improve the processes related to them to ensure that the output they generate is helpful and true to the objectives they seek to attain? Take just one example the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System, the online system that the government is now using as a central portal for all procurement information and its activities. Must certainty of its processes remain or now be modified? The basic requirement for any business entity to be able to participate in the conduct of a government bidding is registration and membership with the PhilGEPS. In registering, all the necessary documents to qualify for membership are submitted, and once on-board the business entity is already presumed to have all its documents verified, approved, and in order. Or at least that is how it should be. So, it begs the question, “Why do you require these business entities, during actual bidding time, to submit their documents again? Will this not just lead to delays, excessive costs, and, worse, opportunities for corruption? Incidentally, when business entities encounter runaway costs, you can be sure that the ultimate party to suffer is the people. All that being said, it remains the duty of the government to ease doing business and fight graft and corruption. PBBM is keen on reducing the burden in certain, if not all, government transactions, and digitalization is one of the promising ways that can now be employed to successfully reach this goal. Digitalization will reduce human intervention, and this will in turn reduce errors and the chances of wrongdoing. Most of the negative comments surrounding elected officials are that they do not deliver the things they had promised during their campaign. It is indeed easy to forget once you have been sworn into office. However, PBBM has displayed consistency and dedication to the goals he mentioned when he took his oath. In this, he is not simply talking the talk; he is veritably walking the talk! The post Digitalization: Walking the talk appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Seda Ayala Center Cebu Celebrates the Past and Embraces the Future at their 5th Anniversary Event, Pagpadayun
Seda Ayala Center Cebu opened its doors to locals and international travelers on August 19, 2018. Five years since its opening, the hotel looks back on its history and its contributions to Cebu City’s growth and its dynamic location in Cebu Business Park. The hotel offers a range of comforts and conveniences essential to the The post Seda Ayala Center Cebu Celebrates the Past and Embraces the Future at their 5th Anniversary Event, Pagpadayun appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Comics (August 25, 2023)
Comics (August 25, 2023).....»»
Comics (August 24, 2023)
Comics (August 24, 2023).....»»
Bottoms up!
Meaning: An encouragement to drink or to finish one’s drink. Did you know that the term “Bottoms up” originated in an era when English sailors were encouraged to drink? There is a popular story behind its history where English sailors used to be bribed with coins to join the navy and many times, they would be tricked into joining by being given a beer with a coin at the bottom of the glass. Sounds fun, right? There is a reward after drinking a reward. I can drink to that! According to the legend, men began to say “Bottoms up” to their drinking buddies so they could see if there were coins in the glasses before the drinks were finished. Now, in modern times, most people say, “Bottoms up!” to cheer their buddies when drinking alcohol, having fun, and celebrating an event. It used to be a happy term, but did you know that it could also be a negative phrase? In some situations, people say “Bottoms up!” to encourage drinking something unpleasant. For example, you need to drink your medicine despite its bitter so someone will say to you “Bottoms Up!” until you finish it. Yes, my dear readers, how are you after the long weekend? Have you recharged and had fun together with friends and families? Nothing wrong with having fun, of course, as long as it does not hurt anyone or as long as it is after working hours. Speaking of “Bottoms up!,” it has been all over the news recently, have you seen it? In case you haven’t, then let me fill you in on some spicy information. Last week, on 16 August, acting port managers and seven other officials of the Philippine Ports Authority assigned to the Port Management Office of Bohol were caught on CCTV drinking inside the PPA office multipurpose hall to celebrate the acting port manager’s birthday. That’s not the worst of it. Aside from drinking on the premises of a government facility, they used the office chairs and tables (supposedly for meetings and official functions) for their drinking session with lots of bottles of alcohol, an invited band, and the attorneys and port police dancing as shown on the CCTV footage. Like I said, having fun is not bad at all, celebrating birthdays is okay, and being together with friends or co-workers on a special day is totally fine.... but not to the extent of using government facilities and resources to fuel that fun. These eight officials of PPA Bohol, including the acting port manager/birthday celebrator, two legal attorneys, four port police officials, and the Port Services Department Bohol head, were removed from their posts pending an investigation. Recently, PPA General Manager Jay Santiago issued a memorandum reiterating Memo Circular No. 013-2023, otherwise known as the “Strict prohibition on the consumption of alcoholic beverages in the workplace.” The memorandum was first issued in 2018 under the same management after the former DoTr officials issued a directive prohibiting alcoholic beverages in the workplace — all in accordance with Civil Service Commission Memorandum No. 4, series of 2011, stating the policy guidelines on the prohibition of alcoholic beverages among government officials and employees. See? No government official or employee is excused for drinking inside a government office. An official is expected to serve the public, to give assistance, to make their lives easier, to be of great service to the community, and not to be another source of conflicts and problems within their areas of responsibility. Ports operate 24/7, thus there is no need to be complacent at any moment. Thank goodness for the high-tech surveillance system of the PPA, serious negligence and deliberate negative acts like these can be monitored from the head office. To be fair, drinking has long been the center of workplace culture, whether for socialization or to gain each other’s trust. In fact, in China, drinking with business partners serves as a moral contract in which the potential work partners get drunk together until they become friends and gain each other’s trust and professional interests. But we are not in China, we are here in our beloved country striving to always change to rise from the difficulties of being in a third-world country. A lot of people, or even more deserving people, need jobs, hence, any job, especially a government position, should not be taken for granted and abused. Now this brings us to a question: Does alcohol have a place at work and should it? Your guess is as good as mine. Let us not normalize alcohol drinking at work or the pressure to participate. It may seem like a nice gesture to subsidize alcohol at events to build camaraderie, but it is not necessary in carrying out government functions, especially inside office areas. There you go, fellow boat riders, yes, we either sink or swim all together because we are in the same boat, but this time we’re not in the same boat because no one wants to be bonding with booze and boss in an office setup on a weekday. Smells like a “Bottoms up!” disaster. Yikes! The post Bottoms up! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go files OFW Ward bill to support medical needs of Overseas Filipino Workers
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has introduced on August 17, Senate Bill No. 2414 which aims to further promote the welfare and support the medical needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). The OFW Ward bill, if enacted into law, mandates the establishment of an OFW ward in every Department of Health (DOH)-retained hospital across the country. These wards will be exclusively for OFWs and their dependents in need of hospital confinement due to health conditions. DOH will determine the number of beds in the OFW Wards based on the distribution of OFWs in their respective catchment areas. The Act covers all OFWs and their dependents, including land-based OFWs, seafarers, and other sea-based workers. Dependents are defined as parents, legal spouse, legitimate, illegitimate, legitimated, and legally adopted children who are unmarried, not gainfully employed, and not over 18 years old, or those over 18 but incapacitated due to mental or physical defects. The Act provides for the coordination between DOH and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and other concerned government departments and agencies, along with Local Government Units (LGUs), to promulgate rules and regulations for its implementation. Go emphasized the importance of the bill, saying, "OFWs are our modern-day heroes, and their well-being is a priority for our country.” “Through the establishment of wards dedicated to OFWs, we guarantee immediate and efficient health care services. This is not just a dream but a commitment to our OFWs,” he added. The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted OFWs, affecting their profession, livelihood, health, and safety. The OFW Ward Act is a response to these challenges, ensuring that OFWs and their dependents have access to healthcare services during these trying times. "In light of the unpleasant circumstances faced by our OFWs and their families, we must take necessary steps to ensure their safety and well-being," Go explained. Go’s commitment to OFWs has previously materialized with the establishment of a dedicated OFW Hospital in San Fernando City, Pampanga. Through his filed Senate Bill No. 2297, he now seeks to institutionalize the hospital and secure its long-term operations to cater to OFWs and their families. The hospital, generously donated by the provincial government of Pampanga, began operations in May 2022. It comprises six stories with a capacity of 100 beds, primarily dedicated to OFWs and their eligible dependents. Earlier, Go cited that the establishment of the Overseas Filipino Workers Hospital in the city demonstrates his and former president Rodrigo Duterte's commitment to improving the country’s healthcare system and promoting the welfare of Filipino migrant workers and their families. “Naisakatuparan po ang pangarap natin na magkaroon ng sariling departamento, ito pong Department of Migrant Workers. Co-sponsor po ako diyan at isa sa mga author… pangarap natin ito noon na naisakatuparan na. Ang pangarap natin magkaroon ng isang OFW hospital, naisakatuparan din. Hindi na po panaginip. Ngayon po, mayroon na rin po tayong Malasakit Center sa inyong OFW Hospital,” he added. Then president Duterte had signed Republic Act No. 11641 on December 2022, creating the DMW. The Senate version of the Act, Senate Bill No. 2234, was authored and co-sponsored by Go. It is a consolidated version of an earlier bill he introduced to establish the Department of Overseas Filipino Workers. Meanwhile, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program back in 2018. He is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. The centers provide a one-stop shop of various government agencies including the Department of Social Welfare and Development, DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. The 158 operational centers across the country aim to minimize hospital costs for impoverished patients and have assisted over seven million Filipinos so far, according to the DOH data. The post Bong Go files OFW Ward bill to support medical needs of Overseas Filipino Workers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go continues efforts to improve public service delivery
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go remains committed to supporting economic recovery and bolstering the healthcare system in various communities. Being an adopted son of Zambales, he continues to help improve public service delivery in the province. In a speech during his visit to Olongapo City, Zambales, on Saturday, 19 August, Go reiterated his dedication to providing immediate aid to communities in need especially the poor. “Huwag po kayong magpasalamat sa akin. Parati naming naririnig ‘salamat Senator Bong Go, salamat (dating) pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte sa mga tulong.' Sa totoo lang po, kami po ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo dahil kami po’y mga probinsyano na binigyan n’yo po ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo po sa inyo. Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat,” Go said. “Hinding-hindi ko po sasayangin ‘yung pagkakataong ibinigay ninyo sa akin, magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino. Wala po akong piling oras, Lunes hanggang Linggo, umaga hanggang gabi magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino sa abot ng aking makakaya,” he added. Go and his team distributed grocery packs, vitamins, masks, and snacks to 2,000 struggling residents, composed of persons with disabilities, solo parents, and transport workers, at the Rizal Triangle Multipurpose Center. The senator likewise gave away bicycles, shoes, mobile phones, watches, shirts, and basketball and volleyball balls. Meanwhile, financial support was also extended by the DSWD to assessed beneficiaries. The relief operation was in partnership with the Olongapo City local government, in coordination with Congressman Jay Khonghun and Mayor Rolen Paulino, Jr. “Ang tawag po sa kanya ay Mr. Malasakit. Alam niyo kung bakit? Kasi po yung puso niya (ay may malasakit), malapit sa tao si Senator Bong Go. At maliban po diyan, siya ang nagsulong ng mga Malasakit Centers… At gusto ko lang din ipaalam sa inyo na si Senator Bong Go po ay matagal na niya akong tinutulungan upang magkaroon tayo ng Malasakit Center dito sa hospital natin,” Paulino said in his speech, referring to ongoing efforts to establish a Malasakit Center in Olongapo in coordination with DOH. “Thank you very much po. Napakalaking tulong po ng ginagawa niyo sa amin… Siya po yung nagiging susi para marami pa tayong matulungan. Ang totoo po diyan, ang tinutulungan niya po ay hindi lang Olongapo, buong Zambales ang natutulungan ninyo,” Mayor Paulino continued. To further help alleviate the burden of poor and indigent patients, Go maintained his support for the continued operations of Malasakit Centers nationwide, including the one at President Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Hospital in Iba town. Initiated in 2018 and institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Go in 2019, these centers serve as a vital bridge between the government and the people, offering streamlined access to medical assistance programs from concerned agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Currently, there are 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide and, according to DOH, these centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide. “Ang Malasakit Center po is a one stop shop. Nasa loob na po ng ospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno – PhilHealth, PCSO, DOH, DSWD na handang tumulong sa ating mga kababayan. ‘Yan po ang Malasakit Center, batas ‘yan na isinulong ko noon, pinirmahan ni dating Pangulong Duterte. One stop shop po ‘yan, lapitan n’yo lang po, para po ‘yan sa poor and indigent patients,” said Go in an interview after the event. Go's vision for a stronger healthcare sector continues through his advocacy for the establishment of more Super Health Centers (SHCs). Recognizing the importance of accessible healthcare services, especially after experiencing a global health crisis, Go has championed the cause of establishing these centers to provide primary care, early detection of diseases, and needed medical consultations to a broader range of citizens. Go cited that necessary funds have been allocated last year for DOH to construct SHCs in Iba, Botolan, and Castillejos, while another center will be established in Castillejos under the 2023 budget. The SHCs are medium versions of polyclinics and are bigger than rural health units, which offer basic services, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center, and telemedicine where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. “Ang ikinaganda po nito, (pwede na) diyan na po magpapakonsulta. It will help decongest the hospital. Importante ang early detection ng sakit para hindi na lumala at hindi na kailangan dalahin sa ospital. Magpakonsulta po kayo sa Super Health Center para mabigyan kayo agad ng primary care,” Go encouraged. Through Resolution No. 205 dated 8 August 2022, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Zambales pronounced Go as its adopted son, noting that the senator has "embodied the spirit of good governance and public service" by exerting great efforts to help the whole province. To ensure the progress of the city, Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the road rehabilitation along Elicano Street East Bajac-Bajac and the improvement of drainage canals in Barangay Barretto. On the same day, Go was in Subic where he was the guest speaker during the commencement exercise of Kolehiyo ng Subic, Class Matalaghay 2023. The post Bong Go continues efforts to improve public service delivery appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tulfo on ID: ‘Why BSP?’
A senator questioned the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for assuming responsibility for printing the national identification cards under the Philippine Identification System or PhilSys project. Tulfo said he was puzzled as to how the BSP, in charge of printing Philippine money, became part of the PhilSys implementation. The project had a P28 billion budget after Republic Act 11055, or the Philippine Identification System Act was signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte in August 2018. In October 2019, former BSP Governor and now Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno signed a memorandum of agreement with National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa for the production of national ID cards for an estimated 116 million Filipinos. Probe looms Tulfo questioned why the BSP accepted the printing of the ID cards and later, passed on the task to AllCard Inc. which has a poor performance record. He claimed AllCard Inc. has been delaying the implementation of its contract with other agencies. Tulfo bared he will soon file a resolution to investigate the matter concerning BSP and AllCard Inc.’s printing agreement. Tulfo lamented that since the National ID law was passed in 2018, only 36 million physical national ID cards have been printed — which is roughly one-third of the government’s 92 million target. “Now, once again, AllCard has delayed the implementation of its contract with the BSP. It’s not just delayed, it created a big mess,” he said. He deplored the BSP’s failure to correct the design of the QR code for national ID cards, noting that the existing design was too small and could not store enough information. “As a result of this, BSP may need to destroy millions of cards that have been initially printed to be replaced by a new design,” he added. On its sealed pact with the PSA for the PhilSys project, the BSP shall produce 116 million cards over three years. Tulfo also lambasted BSP for tapping an Australian company to print the country’s 1,000 peso bank note. “This only means that Philippine money is imported and made in Australia,” he said. The post Tulfo on ID: ‘Why BSP?’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go boosts fire victims’ recovery in Cebu City
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has remained steadfast in his dedication to assisting disaster victims as shown by his team’s relief operations on Monday, 14 August, to communities affected by fires in Cebu City. Go’s team, in coordination with Mayor Mike Rama, Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), assisted 103 recovering fire victims gathered at the Atillo Gymnasium in Barangay Punta Princesa. DTI provided livelihood assistance through its Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program which Go pushed for during the Duterte administration and continues to support its implementation in order to boost livelihood recovery of those affected by various crises. In addition to the livelihood support, Go’s team provided shirts and masks to all beneficiaries, and a pair of shoes, a watch, a cellular phone, and balls for basketball to select recipients. “Sa panahon ng kahirapan at pagsubok dulot ng iba't-ibang sakuna, nais namin sa inyo'y magbigay ng pag-asa at tulong na magbibigay daan sa inyong mga pangarap. Ang programa na ito ay hindi lamang simpleng tulong kundi isang oportunidad upang makabangon at makamtan ang mas magandang kinabukasan,” stressed Go. Go underscored the crucial role of DTI’s PPG program in providing opportunities for sustainable income generation and the agency’s dedication to assisting affected communities in their journey toward recovery and rebuilding their lives. “Palaguin niyo ang inyong negosyo. Kapag lumago ang inyong negosyo, dalhin niyo po ang mga kita sa inyong mga pamilya... mas masarap sa pakiramdam kapag pinagpawisan at pinaghirapan niyo po ang inyong pagnenegosyo,” he added. In a video message, Go highlighted his other efforts to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and recovery strategies on a broader scale. He also asked for support for the passage of Senate Bill No. 188, which aims to establish the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR). The proposed legislation envisions a new government department led by a cabinet secretary, focusing on comprehensive approaches to strengthen disaster preparedness across the country. The DDR's core areas of concentration include disaster risk reduction, disaster preparedness, response and recovery, and the advancement of resilience. “Mayro’n rin po ako nai-file na Department of Disaster Resilience, ito pong departamento na ito, a cabinet-secretary level na siya po ang makikipag-coordinate bago pa dumating ‘yung bagyo at ilikas po ang mga kababayan natin sa ligtas na lugar at preposition of goods,” Go explained. “Part rin po ito ng trabaho nila ang disaster-related tulad ng sunog. Kapag may lindol, sunog, bagyo at itong pagputok ng bulkan, ilikas na kaagad sa mga ligtas na lugar. Iyan po ang Department of Disaster Resilience at restoration of normalcy kaagad,” he added. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 in Cebu City after he personally witnessed the struggles of financially incapacitated Filipinos in getting medical assistance from the government. It was later institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which he principally sponsored and authored. To date, there are 158 Malasakit Centers, including those at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), Cebu City Medical Center, and St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital, that have helped over seven million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health (DOH). Other Malasakit Centers in the province are located at Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City, Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital, Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City, and Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City. Moreover, Go said DOH has identified areas to construct Super Health Centers (SHCs) in the province. SHCs were funded to be established in the cities of Bogo, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandaue; and in the towns of Borbon, Cordova, Moalboal, Samboan, and San Francisco in 2022. This year, more Super Health Centers were funded in the cities of Carcar, Cebu, Talisay, and Toledo; and in the towns of Carmen, Consolacion, Liloan, Medellin, and San Nicolas. An additional SHC will also be established in Danao City. “Ang isang malaking bagay dito ay ang early detection kung may sakit ang isang pasyente. Dahil nasa kanilang komunidad ang SHC, madali na para sa kanya ang magpakonsulta. At kung malalaman agad ang sakit ng isang pasyente, mabibigyan siya ng primary care, malalapatan ng lunas, at lalaki ang tsansa na maka-recover siya sa kanyang sakit,” he explained. SHCs offer database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the funding of various projects in the province, including the construction of multipurpose buildings in Barili, Cordova, Ginatilan, Pilar, Tabogon, and Talisay City; improvement of existing roads in Alcantara, Alcoy, Alegria, Asturias, Balamban, Boljoon, Borbon, Carmen, Madrilejos, Malabuyoc, Minglanilla, Moalboal, Pinamungajan, Sibonga, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Carcar City and Naga City; improvement of flood mitigation structures in Catmon and Tuburan; installation of street lights in Asturias, Compostela, and Daanbantayan; and acquisition of ambulance units for Madridejos and Naga City. The post Bong Go boosts fire victims’ recovery in Cebu City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go visits ‘egg basket of the Philippines’ to conduct relief ops
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go emphasized the paramount significance of stronger government interventions for supporting impoverished Filipinos adversely affected by various crises as he personally led a relief activity for struggling Batangueños in San Jose town on Thursday, 17 August. In 2022, former president Rodrigo Duterte approved a law declaring San Jose town in Batangas as the country's "egg basket” through Republic Act No. 11707, which recognizes the local and national "economic significance" of San Jose's egg industry. Recognizing the urgent need for support, Go for his part has tirelessly championed the cause of the most vulnerable members of society, ensuring that essential government aid reaches those who need it the most. In partnership with the local government of San Jose, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Go assisted 1,558 fellow Batanguenos at the Vanolato Realty basketball court. Go and his team provided grocery packs, masks, vitamins, and meals to each beneficiary. He likewise gave away bicycles, shoes, mobile phones, watches, shirts, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. A team from the DSWD extended financial assistance to 1,000 qualified Batangueños through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, while DOLE provided livelihood support to 558 individuals through its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. “Mga kababayan ko nandirito po kami ngayong araw na ito (at) may dala lang po kaming kaunting tulong. Mayroon po akong dala mula sa aking opisina. (Bukod pa rito,) ang DSWD po mayroong programa na AICS. Kayo po ang napili na bibigyan po na mga beneficiaries ngayong araw na ito… Iba naman po ang TUPAD ng DOLE. Ito pong programang ito pansamantalang trabaho po ito,” Go said. “Ako po bilang senador ay nagsulong nito para maging benepisyaryo kayo ng mga programang ‘yan sa pakikipag-ugnayan po kay Mayor Ben Patron. Suportado ko po ang mga programa ng gobyerno tulad nito na nakakatulong sa mga mahihirap,” shared Go. Go, who is an adopted son of CALABARZON with familial roots in Batangas and Davao, likewise praised the collective efforts of all local officials, including Mayor Valentino “Ben” Patron and Vice Mayor Noel Virtucio. Barangay Ginebra San Miguel team captain Lewis Alfred "LA" Tenorio, a Batangueño, was also present during the visit. “Minsan ako ay pumunta sa kanyang opisina para hingan kayo ng tulong. Ang sagot niya sa akin, at napagalitan pa ako dahil sabi, Mayor, kahit hindi ka pumunta dito, ako ay Batangueño at bilang Batangueño, una sa puso ko ang mga taga-San Jose,” referring to Go, Mayor Patron recalled during his speech to the beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the senator, who chairs the Committee on Health and Demography in the Senate, reiterated his commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and medical services for the poor and reminded the public to take advantage of the services offered in Malasakit Centers. As a one-stop shop where poor and indigent patients can access government medical assistance, the Malasakit Center was initiated by Go in 2018 and institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463 in 2019, a piece of legislation he principally sponsored and authored in the Senate. As attested by the Department of Health (DOH), the program has already aided over seven million patients nationwide with 158 existing Malasakit Centers all around the country. The Malasakit Centers in the province are located at the Batangas Medical Center in Batangas City and at Batangas Provincial Hospital in Lemery. In addition to his commitment to the Malasakit Center program, Go has conveyed his support to establish more Super Health Centers (SHCs) throughout the country. Under the 2022 national budget, SHCs in Batangas were funded in Ibaan, San Pascual, Agoncillo, Calatagan, Lipa City, Malvar, and Taysan. In 2023, more centers were identified to be established in the towns of San Juan, Tingloy, Lian, and San Jose. In addition, two more SHCs were funded in Lipa City. The SHC is an improved version of a rural health center and offers basic health services such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center, and telemedicine, through which remote diagnosis and treatment of patients are made possible. “Sa kakaikot ko po sa buong Pilipinas, marami pong lugar walang health facilities. Yung mga buntis nanganganak sa tricycle (o kaya) sa jeepney dahil napakalayo po ng ospital. Ngayon magkakaroon na ng Super Health Center at pwede po itong i-expand ni Mayor. Kaya yung mga buntis pwede nang manganak dyan,” Go cited. “Kapag meron na pong Super Health Center dito sa lugar ninyo, dyan na po pwede magpakonsulta, importante ang early detection ng diseases para hindi lumala ang sakit, at makakuha kayo ng primary care. This will help decongest the hospitals dahil dyan na po pwede na magpagamot. Malaking tulong po nun,” he continued. To help with the economic recovery of the town, Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the construction of multipurpose buildings, road improvements, rehabilitation of drainage facilities and water systems, and a street lighting project. On the same day, Go attended the blessing and opening of the Malaquing Tubig Bridge and inspected the ongoing road construction in Barangay Palanca going to Barangay Natunuan. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go was instrumental in securing funding for these projects. The post Bong Go visits ‘egg basket of the Philippines’ to conduct relief ops appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MPTC, SMC forges historic P72-B toll road deal
Two industry powerhouses—Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. or MPTC and San Miguel Corp. or SMC—are set to jointly develop two toll road projects with a combined cost of P72 billion that would further ease mobility in Southern Luzon. The companies signed a Memorandum of Agreement last Monday, 14 August, where they formalized their bid to design, build and operate the 87.96-kilometer Cavite-Batangas Expressway or CBEX and Nasugbu-Bauan Expressway or NBEX. According to SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang, the partnership is a “historic collaboration” that will deliver world-class road networks for Filipinos. “This collaboration stands as a testament to what we can achieve when we are united in purpose,” Ang said. Meanwhile, MPTC Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said: “Together with SMC, we envisage a future where our CBEX and NBEX can help pave the way for connectivity and economic growth in the CALABARZON region.” The CBEX is a 27.06-kilometer road that will establish a crucial link connecting CALAX’s Silang (Aguinaldo) Interchange to Batangas, Meanwhile, the 60.90-kilometer NBEX will provide seamless connectivity from Nasugbu to Bauan, Batangas. The route will traverse the townships of Silang, Amadeo, Tagaytay, Indang, Mendez, and Alfonso in Cavite before crossing into Nasugbu and finally reaching Bauan, Batangas. The groundbreaking of CBEX is scheduled for 2024, while NBEX is likely to be complete and open to the motoring public by 2027. In 2018, MPTC presented a proposal for the 50.4-kilometer Cavite-Tagaytay-Batangas Expressway project to the Department of Public Works and Highways and was granted the original proponent status. Similarly, SMC's unsolicited proposal for the CBEX and NBEX was approved by the Cavite and Batangas government. Both projects share the common goal of connecting the provinces of Cavite and Batangas through Tagaytay City and MPTC and SMC have come together as partners in this significant venture. The post MPTC, SMC forges historic P72-B toll road deal appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Nadine Lustre, ‘Family Matters’ victorious at 71st FAMAS
The 71st Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS), the country’s oldest award-giving body for cinema, held its 2023 awarding ceremony on 13 August at the Fiesta Pavilion, Manila Hotel. The drama Family Matters, an entry at the 2022 Metro Manila Film Festival, emerged victorious after bagging four awards out of 12 nominations. Family Matters bested other nominees in the Best Picture award such as Blue Room, Leonor Will Never Die, La Traidora and Deleter. Aside from its Best Picture win, the film also won Best Actor for Noel Trinidad, Best Supporting Actress for Nikki Valdez and Best Editing (Beng Bandong). [caption id="attachment_171195" align="aligncenter" width="525"] 71ST FAMAS Best Actress awardee Nadine Lustre. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VIVA[/caption] Directed by Nuel Naval, Family Matters is a drama-comedy film that revolves around an elderly married couple and their children who must take turns caring for their parents, especially their stroke-stricken father. Meanwhile, multi-award-winning actress Nadine Lustre secured her second FAMAS Best Actress award for portraying Kichi in the 2019 thriller film Greed. Lustre received her first FAMAS Best Actress award for her performance in the 2018 romance film Never Not Love You. With this achievement, the 29-year-old actress extended her record as the youngest woman to win the Best Actress award at the FAMAS. Several artists and prominent figures also received special awards during the ceremony. Veteran actresses Liza Lorena and Marita Zobel won the Susan Roces Celebrity Award and the FAMAS Lifetime Achievement Award, respectively. Popular young actress Jillian Ward received the German Moreno Youth Achievement Award, while actor-director Jun Urbano, known for his iconic “Mr. Shooli” character, was honored with the Dr. Jose R. Perez Memorial Award. Actor and Senator Lito Lapid received the Fernando Poe Jr. Memorial Award, with Mischa and Mattie Lapid accepting the award on behalf of their grandfather, who was absent that night. House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez also won the FAMAS Exemplary Award in Public Service. Below is the full list of the 71st FAMAS Awards winners: Best Picture: Family Matters Best Director: Ma-an Asuncion Dagñalan, Blue Room Best Actress: Nadine Lustre, Greed Best Actor: Noel Trinidad, Family Matters Best Supporting Actress: Nikki Valdez, Family Matters Best Supporting Actor: Sid Lucero, Reroute Best Screenplay: Abet Raz and Alejandro Ramos, La Traidora Best Cinematography: Neil Daza, Blue Room Best Production Design: Eero Yves Francisco, Leonor Will Never Die Best Editing: Beng Bandong, Family Matters Best Musical Score: Jazz Nicolas and Mikey Amistoso, Blue Room Best Sound: Alizen Andrade and Immanuel Verona, Reroute Best Short Film: Kurt Soberano’sGolden Bells Male Star of the Night: Sid Lucero Female Star of the Night: Jillian Ward Face of the Night (Male): Mon Confiado Face of the Night (Female): Nadine Lustre Susan Roces Celebrity Award: Liza Lorena FAMAS Lifetime Achievement Award: Marita Zobel German Moreno Youth Achievement Award: Jillian Award Dr. Jose R. Perez Memorial Award: Jun Urbano Fernando Poe Jr. Memorial Award: Lito Lapid FAMAS Exemplary Award in Public Service: Ferdinand Martin Romualdez The post Nadine Lustre, ‘Family Matters’ victorious at 71st FAMAS appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Comics (August 12, 2023)
Comics (August 12, 2023).....»»
Quantifiable targets for national ID issuance needed—Escudero
Senator Francis Escudero said the government agencies involved in the implementation of the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) project should present “quantifiable targets” to the Senate when they are called for 2024 national budget hearings. Escudero said the Philippine Statistic Authority—the lead implementing agency for the PhilSys project—should explain the special provision in its budget appropriations. He questioned the PSA’s previous provision stating that “it shall set a timetable to fully establish and implement the system, which shall not be later than December 31, 2024.” "So wala na ba talaga yung original na target na end of 2023, wrap up na ang proyekto?" he asked. Escudero cited the Republic Act 11055, which institutionalized the national ID system, was signed by President Duterte on 6 August 2018, but five years later, the government seems to fail in meeting its own target. "Too much fanfare and promise," Escudero lamented, noting that the delivery of national IDs to Filipinos “shambled with so much delays,” resulting in millions of backlogs for the PSA. "Panahon ng silipin kung ano nga ba ang iniunlad nito paglakipas ng limang taon,” he added. Escudero said the Palace is asking P1.6 billion budget for the continuing implementation of the PhilSys project next year so it can further “accelerate the issuance” of national ID cards. Thus, the senator would like to scrutinize "at what speed will it be done and will it be fast enough to overtake the backlog.” The PSA proposed P8.8 billion to fund its 2024 PhilSys project implementation. “Even President [Ferdinand] Marcos Jr. highlighted this allocation in his traditional Budget Message to Congress as a way "to accelerate the issuance" of the national ID card, which every citizen is mandated by law to have,” Escudero said. Meanwhile, Escudero likewise noted that while the PSA has the appropriations, the delays can also be attributed to the problems in the printing services for the national ID—which is being facilitated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. "For an agency which prints money and runs the mint, this delay to the people, more so that they are compelled to register and apply for it, is unacceptable," he said. Of the 77.325 million who have registered as of 7 July 2023, Escudero said only 41.358 million plastic cards have been printed and dispatched to various PSA field offices. Of the dispatched, only 34.719 million physical ID cards were received by owners. "Yung 38.608 million printed lang sa papel. Habang 1.2 million ang dinownload na lang nila at sila na ang nag-print. In this age of A.I., the promised cards are being printed D-I-Y. Ang daming pangako nung binabalangkas ang batas, at nang humihingi ng pondo,” Escudero said, emphasizing that such delays would discourage Filipinos to avail of the national ID program. "Kaya naman halos 33 million pa ang hindi nagparehistro. 'Yung targeted clientele mo mawawalan talaga ng gana,” he added. Looking at the National Expenditure Program, Escudero described the PSA’s performance outcome as “vague.” "I would like them to present a clearer target. Una, sa Performance Information ng PSA. Ito yung parte ng proposed budget ng isang ahensya na nakalista ang mga deliverables. The absence of data on PhilID is a great omission," he said. The post Quantifiable targets for national ID issuance needed—Escudero appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Comics (August 10, 2023)
Comics (August 10, 2023).....»»
Masculinity with Responsibility’: Who will win the 10th Misters of Filipinas pageant? ?
After months of casting calls and competitions in the Philippines and Filipino communities abroad, Prime Event Productions Philippines Foundation, Inc. formally introduced the 10th Misters of Filipinas official candidates on Sunday evening, 5 August, at the Grand Ballroom of Winford Hotel Manila Resort and Casino. The candidates strutted down the runway in stunning all-white ensembles, showcasing their impeccable ramp skills and physiques in Julius Peggaro swimwear. But the candidates will not just be pageant figures who can strut in swimwear and formal wear. What’s more important is how they can become positive role models to their communities and the country. “That is why the slogan of Misters of Filipinas and Man of the World is Masculinity with Responsibility,” said PEPPS president Carlo Morris Galang. “More than having a handsome face and a gorgeous body, every man who has passed through Misters of Filipinas and Man of the World should have developed a sense of community and have evolved in becoming the best versions of themselves so that they contribute to society. Everyone who became part of our 10 years is just that,” he added. Adding glamour and sophistication to the event were hosts Ryan Tercero, Miss Fitness Super Model World Philippines Kristel Galang and Mr. Fitness Super Model World Philippines Mayko Toledo. “It was a long search for the official candidates, but I am confident that we have a good batch this year,” said Galang. “These men came from various backgrounds such as event hosting, film acting, modeling and other occupations. They will now set off on their journey for the titles that will have the winners competing in various international competitions.” The candidates are hoping to win one of the coveted titles of the competition and follow on the heels of Man Hot Star International 2023 Jovy Bequillo, Mister Runway Model Universe 2022 Junichi Yabushita, Mister Model Worldwide 2018 Carlo Pasion, Mister Universe Tourism 2018 Ion Perez, Mister Tourism and Culture Universe 2018 Yves Campos, Man of the Year 2016 Karan Singhdole and Mister International 2014 Neil Perez. The finals night will be held at 7 p.m. on Sunday, 17 September, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City. The post Masculinity with Responsibility’: Who will win the 10th Misters of Filipinas pageant? ? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Comics (August 9, 2023)
Comics (August 9, 2023).....»»
Comics (August 8, 2023)
Comics (August 8, 2023).....»»