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Philippines remains on FATF gray list
The Philippines failed anew to exit the gray list or list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring after falling short in addressing the remaining concerns on its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regime, according to global dirty money watchdog Financial Action Task Force......»»
SMNI files motion to inhibit NTC execs
SONSHINE Media Network International (SMNI) has taken action against three National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) officials, filing a motion on January 4 to request their inhibition from an ongoing administrative case. The motion, filed by SMNI's legal representatives Mark Tolentino and Rolex Suplico, argues that NTC officials Commissioner Ella Lopez and Deputy Commissioners Jon Salvahan and Alvin Blanco should recuse themselves due to perceived bias. Tolentino pointed out a perceived conflict of interest within the NTC, stating, On its face, the show cause order suffers from a fatal flaw. NTC is the judge, NTC is also the complainant, and NTC is likewise the executioner. This is worse than an impartial judge, which is totally abhorred in this country. He emphasized the violation of due process, highlighting the necessity for the neutrality of an impartial judge. Suplico echoed these concerns, stating, In short, we cannot expect justice from the NTC in this case. This motion comes in response to NTC's issuance of a show cause order against SMNI in December 2023, which alleged franchise violations and resulted in a 30-day suspension. SMNI's legal counsel argued that the dual role of the NTC officials violates due process, stating, In the instant case… appearance of impartiality can never be obtained with the dual function of this Honorable Commission, that being the judge and complainant at the same time. Suplico also questioned why the case was not directly handled by the three NTC commissioners, expressing concerns about the authority of the hearing officer in conducting the hearing. He emphasized the significance of public interest in the case and raised doubts about the hearing officer's jurisdiction. The case has been submitted for resolution, with a decision expected soon. SMNI's lawyers have requested an extension until January 20 to file a responsive pleading. In a related development, Davao City-based legislator Margarita “Migs” Ignacia B. Nograles proposed a resolution urging the NTC to suspend SMNI's operations, citing alleged franchise violations and the dissemination of false information as grounds for suspension. Former president Rodrigo Duterte also criticized the suspension of two SMNI programs by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), calling it a violation of his right to free expression. This motion by SMNI reflects the ongoing legal and regulatory challenges it faces, with implications for freedom of expression and due process. The resolution proposed by Nograles adds another layer of complexity to the situation, indicating the broader impact of these developments on media operations and regulatory oversight......»»
Stock markets dip as US inflation comes into view
Stock markets drifted lower on Monday as investors eyed the release this week of key US inflation data that could guide Federal Reserve plans for interest rates going into the new year. Oil prices fell nearly two percent before bouncing higher and then sliding back lower as dealers awaited a delayed meeting of OPEC and its allies to decide over output levels. With Wall Street seeing little action at the back of last week owing to the Thanksgiving break, traders had few catalysts to drive action, though analysts were upbeat about the end of the year. "Although there isn't much buying interest at the moment, it's more notable that there still isn't much selling interest," said Briefing.com analyst Patrick O'Hare. The retreat in equities comes after a recent run-up across world stock markets fuelled by bets the US central bank has finished lifting interest rates as inflation comes down and the jobs market comes off the boil. Expectations that the Federal Reserve is done with hiking rates continued to weigh on the dollar Monday. The main focus this week is the release Thursday of the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index, the Fed's preferred gauge of inflation. "These numbers will be closely scrutinized for insights into inflation trends and their potential implications for monetary policy decisions," said SPI Asset Management's Stephen Innes. "While the current backdrop does not signify 'mission accomplished' in terms of addressing inflation, policymakers must now focus on planning for the next phase of the economic battle." Still, observers were upbeat about the outlook, with the latest weakness blamed on traders taking a breather after a strong month. Tony Sycamore, at IG Group, said early December could see some selling as investors "rebuild energy and (look) to set up for the end-of-year fireworks". Others said a drop in Wall Street's VIX "fear gauge" -- a measure of equity volatility -- to its lowest since January 2020 suggested investors were getting their mojo back. Eyes are also on developments at OPEC after the group and its allies, notably Russia, delayed a meeting aimed at agreeing production quotas, with some African countries said to be baulking at Saudi Arabian calls for more cuts. The group is thought to be close to reaching an agreement that could see the Saudis and Russia extend output reductions into the new year. OANDA analyst Craig Erlam said the OPEC+ group has shown in the past it usually can get a deal done, even if Saudi Arabia and Russia need shoulder bigger cuts. "But the question is how far they'll push it, given the recent trend in oil prices and increasing concerns around global growth next year," said Erlam. Crude prices have fallen in recent weeks as demand is seen coming down owing to slowing economies, particularly China's, and the Middle East conflict appears to not have expanded to include other countries in the region. Key figures around 1630 GMT New York - DOW: DOWN 0.2 percent at 35,338.58 points London - FTSE 100: DOWN 0.4 percent at 7,460.70 (close) Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 0.4 percent at 7,265.49 (close) Frankfurt - DAX: DOWN 0.4 percent at 15,966.37 (close) EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 0.4 percent at 4,354.41 (close) Tokyo - Nikkei 225: DOWN 0.5 percent at 33,447.67 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng Index: DOWN 0.2 percent at 17,525.06 (close) Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 0.3 percent at 3,031.70 (close) Euro/dollar: UP at $1.0935 from $1.0922 Pound/dollar: UP at $1.2611 from $1.2585 Euro/pound: DOWN at 86.70 pence from 86.79 pence Dollar/yen: DOWN at 148.94 from 149.56 yen West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 0.1 percent at $75.44 per barrel Brent North Sea crude: DOWN 0.3 percent at $80.36 per barrel .....»»
History of empathy
In a world often marred by conflict and divisiveness, genuine compassion and solidarity illuminate the path of hope. Israel’s recent gesture to assist victims of the ongoing war with the terrorist group Hamas is a testament to the nation’s commitment to humanity and its willingness to lend a helping hand to those in need. Israel, a nation that has itself faced considerable challenges and conflicts, understands the plight of those impacted by war. With a history shaped by resilience and determination, Israel has learned the importance of standing in solidarity with those facing adversity. This history of empathy serves as the foundation for its decision to assist victims of war, transcending borders and differences to offer a lifeline to those in desperate need. The Israeli government, led in the country by Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss, reached out with unwavering support to the grieving families of four Filipinos who tragically fell victim to the heinous Hamas terrorist attack on Israel. With a deep commitment to healing and restoration, Israel through Fluss vowed to provide financial aid to guide the families through this challenging chapter of their lives. Regardless of nationality, for as long as the affected individuals are documented, Fluss said they are officially recognized as victims of terrorism. As such, much-needed financial assistance will be extended to their parents, spouses and children. According to Ambassador Fluss, the Israeli government has well-defined legislation in place to assist Israeli citizens, Filipinos and other foreign nationals affected by such circumstances. The support, coursed through either the Philippine government or victims’ families, will be provided through monthly financial aid, tailored to address specific needs such as education, healthcare and housing, as explicitly stipulated in Israeli law. Going beyond providing immediate aid, Israel’s gesture fosters an environment conducive to peace and reconciliation. By reaching out to victims of war, Israel sends a powerful message of unity, empathy, and a shared commitment to healing wounds inflicted by conflict. This goodwill inspires hope and encourages dialogue, paving the way for greater understanding and eventual resolution of conflicts. Israel’s gesture may inevitably draw criticism from various spectrums, with skeptics raising concerns about underlying motives or highlighting political complexities. Nevertheless, it is best to acknowledge the profound significance of taking action to alleviate profound human suffering, regardless of political considerations. Instead of fueling hate, aiding victims of war should ignite a powerful call for international collaboration wherein nations join hands and work together toward conflict resolution — transcending divisive narratives. Israel’s commitment to humanitarian aid is not mere rhetoric but a tangible demonstration of addressing immediate needs and contributing to the long-term recovery and stability of the kin of 1,400 fatalities, 5,240 injured, 223 hostages, and conflict-affected communities. May the compassionate outreach of the Israeli government inspire resistance to blame-assigning through a constructive and problem-solving mindset. The post History of empathy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
More than 75,000 US health care workers begin 3-day strike
Tens of thousands of healthcare workers in the United States walked off the job Wednesday, beginning one of the sector's largest strikes in recent history, as America's year of labor discontent rolled on. The walkout of more than 75,000 workers at Kaiser Permanente, the country's largest non-profit healthcare organization, comes as surging inflation has spurred industrial action across the US, from Hollywood actors to Detroit auto workers. People on the picket lines in Los Angeles on Wednesday said they were underpaid and overworked. "Ever since the pandemic hit, we lost a lot of members and we never recovered them," X-ray technician Armando Velasco told AFP. "And now we're at the brink, we're at the precipice." Nurse Kathy Lozoya said the rocketing cost of living in southern California was making life very difficult. "Kaiser Permanente has reported billions of dollars in profits, so all we're asking from Kaiser CEOs is to share those profits with the frontline workers," she said. "All we're asking is a fair contract so that we can be able to live." Fellow nurse Scarleth Rocha said she feared a staff shortage was not good for patients. "Working 12-hour shifts, working with 26 patients per one nurse is not ideal, and it's not safe for nurses to work with that many patients in one place," she said. Kaiser Permanente locations in California, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington state were expected to be affected by the three-day strike. A small number of workers in Washington, DC, and Virginia were set to walk out for 24 hours. Kaiser said centers would remain open, but warned there would be "longer-than-usual" wait times. A Kaiser spokesman told journalists on Tuesday that talks were continuing. "Several agreements over specific provisions have been reached" with the Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions, the spokesman said, adding negotiators were prepared to meet around the clock "until we reach a fair and equitable agreement." The union, which says this will be the largest healthcare worker strike in US history, is pushing for pay increases and protections against subcontracting and outsourcing of labor. It has threatened to engage in further strike action in November "if Kaiser continues to commit unfair labor practices." Inflationary pressures Wednesday's strike comes during a year in which the US has seen an unusually high level of industrial action as workers struggle with inflation levels not seen in a generation. Higher prices have reduced the purchasing power of shoppers across the country, while the rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has led to concerns about the automation of growing numbers of jobs. Industrial action is ongoing in Detroit, where the United Auto Workers (UAW) union is engaged in its first-ever joint strike action against the "Big Three" automakers -- GM, Ford, and Chrysler maker Stellantis -- in a push for higher pay and better working conditions. More than 25,000 workers are on strike in 21 states -- around 17 percent of UAW's 146,000 members -- as talks continue. In Hollywood, a months-long joint strike by writers and actors brought California's lucrative film industry to a halt, stopping production and broadcast of major movie and TV productions. While the writers have since agreed on a deal to return to work, actors represented by the SAF-AFTRA union were on the picket lines Wednesday, even as their negotiators met with studios for a second full day of talks. The post More than 75,000 US health care workers begin 3-day strike appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
More than 75,000 US health care workers begin 3-day strike
Tens of thousands of healthcare workers in the United States walked off the job Wednesday, beginning one of the sector's largest strikes in recent history over what they say is a staffing shortage, as America's year of labor discontent rolled on. The walkout of more than 75,000 workers at Kaiser Permanente, the country's largest non-profit health care organization, comes as surging inflation has spurred industrial action across the US, from Hollywood actors to Detroit autoworkers. "Kaiser executives are refusing to listen to us and are bargaining in bad faith over the solutions we need to end the Kaiser short-staffing crisis," vocational nurse Jessica Cruz, who works at Kaiser Los Angeles Medical Center, said in a union statement. "I see my patients' frustrations when I have to rush them and hurry on to my next patient. That's not the care I want to give. "We're burning ourselves out trying to do the jobs of two or three people, and our patients suffer when they can't get the care they need due to Kaiser's short staffing." Kaiser Permanente locations in Washington DC, Virginia, California, Colorado, Oregon and Washington state were expected to be affected by the three-day strike. Kaiser said centers would remain open, but warned there would be "longer-than-usual" wait times. A Kaiser spokesman told journalists on Tuesday that talks were continuing. "Several agreements over specific provisions have been reached" with the Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions, he spokesman said, adding negotiators were prepared to meet around the clock "until we reach a fair and equitable agreement." The union, which says this will be the largest healthcare worker strike in US history, is pushing for pay increases and protections against subcontracting and outsourcing of labor. It has threatened to engage in further strike action in November "if Kaiser continues to commit unfair labor practices. Inflationary pressures Wednesday's strike comes during a year in which the US has seen an unusually high level of industrial action as workers struggle with inflation levels not seen in a generation. Higher prices have reduced the purchasing power of shoppers across the country, while the rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has led to concerns about the automation of growing numbers of jobs. Industrial action is ongoing in Detroit, where the United Auto Workers (UAW) union is engaged in its first-ever joint strike action against the "Big Three" auto makers -- GM, Ford and Chrysler maker Stellantis -- in a push for higher pay and better working conditions. More than 25,000 workers are on strike in 21 states -- around 17 percent of UAW's 146,000 members -- as talks continue. And in Hollywood, a months-long joint strike by writers and actors brought California's lucrative film industry to a halt, stopping production and broadcast of major movie and TV productions. While the writers have since agreed on a deal to return to work, actors represented by the SAF-AFTRA union were on the picket lines Wednesday, even as their negotiators met with studios for a second full day of talks. The post More than 75,000 US health care workers begin 3-day strike appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PPAN Visayas presents plan to address malnutrition, food insecurity in 5 years
CEBU CITY, Philippines — A program that aims to address malnutrition and other health concerns was formally launched in Cebu City on Monday, October 2, 2023. The Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 2023-2028 would serve as the government’s blueprint in addressing concerns on malnutrition in the next five years. Dr. Parolita Mission, National.....»»
Opening Pandora’s box
Exposing the recruitment racket where Filipinos are brought to Italy using bogus work permits, Daily Tribune’s show Usapang OFW may have opened a can of worms in the country’s skewed policy of relentlessly exporting labor. In most countries, being a migrant worker is a career move, not a forced one to have a decent human existence. The diaspora now consists of more than 10 million Filipinos who are promised by their elected leaders every time they are visited that the time is coming when opportunities at home will allow them to return. Policies, however, continue to lean toward promoting overseas employment mainly due to the lure of $3 billion in remittances that shower the country like manna from heaven monthly. Filipinos are preferred first-class workers due to their proficiency in English and their famed work ethic, resilience, and cheerful nature. The demand for Filipino workers is exploited by those seeking a fast buck by recruiting them. Those seeking jobs abroad are sucked dry before they can get a contract and then squeezed of their hard-earned money again at every opportunity by vultures, including the government. Tales like the emergency repatriation fund being misused to buy overpriced sanitary napkins and similar kickback rackets abound. Some 400 workers recounted to the online program how a Filipino employment consultancy firm based in Italy, Alpha Assistenza SRL, headed by Filipino co-CEOs Krizelle Respicio and Frederick Dutaro, victimized them through a “serial scamming” where they paid substantial sums only to be issued fake Nulla Ostas or work permits. The labor trafficking the Filipino firm had been engaged in was revealed after several individuals surfaced to narrate the ordeal they experienced at the hands of Alpha Assistenza. Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed a resolution to investigate the likely scam operation, but the probe’s focus should be on the officials who are complicit with the crooks. The victims recounted how the sting of bringing Filipinos to Italy with fake work permits could only be possible through the collusion of officials in the foreign diplomatic outposts. An immediate impact of the revelations of massive human trafficking may squander the country’s recently won Tier-1 ranking in the Global Trafficking in Persons report of the US State Department. As a Tier-1 country, the Philippines is considered to have fully met the minimum standards for eliminating trafficking. The government was applauded for its continued demonstration of “serious and sustained efforts” to fight human smuggling and illegal labor deployment. “These efforts included investigating more trafficking crimes, convicting more traffickers, amending its anti-trafficking law, increasing funding to the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, and sentencing nearly all traffickers to significant prison terms,” the US State Department said. Being dropped from Tier-1 would have the effect of foreign governments tightening entry procedures for Filipino workers and the issuance of tighter rules on labor recruitment conducted by local agencies. “Corruption and official complicity in trafficking crimes remain significant concerns, inhibiting law enforcement action during the year,” the US report said. The report continued: “Some officials in law enforcement, immigration agencies, and other government entities are allegedly complicit in trafficking or allow traffickers to operate with impunity. Some corrupt officials allegedly accept bribes to facilitate illegal departures for overseas workers, operate sex trafficking establishments, facilitate the production of fraudulent identity documents, or overlook illegal labor recruiters.” Italy could just be the tip of the iceberg of a possibly colossal syndicate tapping into the tens of millions of job-seeking Filipinos for a lucrative illegal recruitment ring. The post Opening Pandora’s box appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NAPC finalizing poverty reduction plan
The National Anti-Poverty Commission is finalizing the National Anti-Poverty Action Agenda and the National Poverty Reduction Plan. In a public briefing on Monday, NAPC Lead Convenor Secretary Lopez Santos III said they came up with several more programs for poor Filipinos after holding regional sectoral assemblies this month. He added that the regional sectoral assemblies consist of 14 sectors, including farmers, fisherfolk, indigenous peoples, and children. “We ask them about the programs and policies they want to promote to expedite our poverty reduction program,” Santos said. “Our goal is to promote cooperation, harmonization, and convergence between national government agencies and local government units,” he added. Santos also emphasized the importance of the participation of basic sectors in poverty reduction programs. “We’re emphasizing the active participation, full representation, and involvement of basic sectors at all levels of governance, from the national level down to the local government units,” he said. Santos also explained the institutional mechanism for implementing programs for the poor. “We have an established institutional mechanism, and the National Anti-Poverty Commission serves as that mechanism,” he said. Santos said that the NAPC has 25 national government agencies responsible for implementing government programs, as well as four leagues of LGUs and 14 basic sectors. “Each specific program has its own institutional mechanism within each government agency,” he said. “But what we’re emphasizing is the active participation, full representation, and involvement of basic sectors at all levels of governance, from the national level down to the local government units.” Santos also said that the NAPC has raised with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples the concerns raised by some Manobo women from the Caraga Region regarding mining in their area. The issue involves the protection of their ancestral domain and the release of royalties from mining operations in their ancestral domain. “We have already had discussions with the NCIP chairperson, some commissioners, and regional directors, and they have thoroughly discussed this matter,” Santos said. The post NAPC finalizing poverty reduction plan appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Climate change ‘dystopian future already here’: UN rights chief
Climate change is sparking human rights emergencies in numerous countries, the UN rights chief said Monday, stressing the need to fight the impunity of those who "plunder our environment". Speaking before the United Nations Human Rights Council, Volker Turk pointed to recent examples of the "environmental horror that is our global planetary crisis". He described visiting Basra, Iraq, where date palms once lined canals, but now "drought, searing heat, extreme pollution and fast-depleting supplies of fresh water are creating barren landscapes of rubble and dust". "This spiraling damage is a human rights emergency for Iraq, and many other countries," he said in his address opening the 54th council session in Geneva. "Climate change is pushing millions of people into famine. It is destroying hopes, opportunities, homes and lives. In recent months, urgent warnings have become lethal realities again and again all around the world," Turk said. "We do not need more warnings. The dystopian future is already here. We need urgent action now." Turk was speaking after the G20 at the weekend failed to commit to a phase-out of fossil fuels, something he said was desperately needed. - 'Nonchalance' at migrant deaths - At a time when the ravages of climate change are forcing more and more people to leave their homes, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said he was "shocked by the nonchalance" seen towards surging numbers of migrant deaths. "It is evident that far more migrants and refugees are dying, unnoticed," he said, pointing to the more than "2,300 people reported dead or missing in the Mediterranean this year, including the loss of more than 600 lives in a single shipwreck off Greece in June." He also highlighted migrant deaths in the English Channel, the Bay of Bengal, in the Caribbean, along the US-Mexican border, and at the Saudi border, where he said his "office is seeking urgent clarification about allegations of killings and mistreatment". The UN rights chief also highlighted a wide range of other concerning situations around the world, including in Russia, Pakistan and the Palestinian territory. On China, he reiterated concerns raised in a report by his office a year ago about the situation in the far-western Xinjiang region, which cited possible crimes against humanity against Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities. "As my Office highlighted a year ago, the concerns in the Xinjiang ... requires strong remedial action by the authorities," Turk said Monday, also voicing concern at "continued detention of human rights advocates". - 'Ecocide' - Turk also spoke about the situation in Lebanon, decrying a total lack of accountability for the 2020 Beirut port blast, that killed more than 220 people, urging "an international fact-finding mission to look into human rights violations related to this tragedy." And he mentioned the situation in Iran, one year after the death of Mahsa Amini in custody after her arrest for allegedly breaching the strict dress code for women. Turk voiced concern at a bill that would impose harsher penalties for breaching the dress code, and "renewed deployment of the morality police." Climate change and environmental degradation played a role in a number of the rights situations he mentioned, including in Africa's Sahel region. Turk insisted on the need to "counter the impunity of people and businesses who severely plunder our environment", welcoming a proposal to recognize "ecocide" as an international crime. Amid the towering problems facing the world, Turk decried "politics of deception". "Helped by new technologies, lies and disinformation are mass-produced to sow chaos, to confuse, and ultimately to deny reality and ensure no action will be taken that could endanger the interests of entrenched elites," he said. "The most apparent case of this is climate change." nl/apo/yad © Agence France-Presse The post Climate change ‘dystopian future already here’: UN rights chief appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DHSUD, UPAC create group to solve housing issues
A technical working group focused on solving housing issues has been created by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the Urban Poor Action Committee (UPAC) to address shelter woes. The TWG, with member representatives from DHSUD, UPAC, National Housing Authority, and Social Housing Finance Corporation, aims to craft programs that will make public housing more accessible to the underserviced sectors. “The creation of this TWG was in response to the clamor of urban poor groups. It will primarily focus on issues that remain unresolved for decades now. I can see complexities on the concerns but by uniting and helping each other, we can find ways to appropriately address gaps in the sector,” said DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar in a statement Sunday. "Ito po ay nagpapatunay na ang Marcos administration at ang DHSUD ay nakikinig sa lahat ng stakeholders, at inuuna po natin ang mga kababayan nating mahihirap," he added. Members of urban poor groups consist of informal settler families, residents living near danger zones, especially in river banks and coastal areas, and beneficiaries of government housing programs. During its first meeting Thursday, led by Assistant Secretary Daryll Bryan Villanueva, the discussion has identified the functions of each group to move toward effectively resolving various housing resettlement concerns. The TWG also tackled UPAC’s People’s Plan which proposes a more participative and solution-based housing plan involving the beneficiaries from planning to program sustainability plans. “We also see challenges in the implementation of previously issued presidential proclamations and NHA housing projects. But with this TWG and our working relationship with involved agencies, we can tell that concrete solutions are underway,” assured Secretary Acuzar. Earlier this year, the housing czar engaged leaders and members of UPAC in an open dialogue to tackle concerns of different urban poor organizations and align their recommendations to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program. UPAC which represents 205,000 families from various groups, headed by lead facilitator Alice Murphy, vowed to work closely with the government to properly implement any approved provisions under 4PH. The post DHSUD, UPAC create group to solve housing issues appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DHSUD, urban poor activate TWG to address shelter woes
Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar on Sunday said the DSHUD and the Urban Poor Action Committee (UPAC) recently activated a technical working group (TWG) that will harmonize efforts in providing decent shelters to more Filipinos, particularly the underprivileged. “The creation of this TWG was in response to the clamor of urban poor groups. It will primarily focus on issues that remain unresolved for decades now. I can see complexities on the concerns but by uniting and helping each other, we can find ways to appropriately address gaps in the sector,” Acuzar said. The TWG, with member representatives from DHSUD, UPAC, National Housing Authority, and Social Housing Finance Corporation, aims to craft measures for immediate implementation of programs that will make public housing more accessible to the underserviced sectors, particularly the urban poor. "Ito po ay nagpapatunay na ang Marcos administration at ang DHSUD ay nakikinig sa lahat ng stakeholders, at inuuna po natin ang mga kababayan nating mahihirap," Acuzar explained. Members of urban poor groups consist of informal settler families, residents living near danger zones, especially in river banks and coastal areas, and beneficiaries of government housing programs. During its first meeting Thursday, led by Assistant Secretary Daryll Bryan Villanueva, the discussion identified the functions of each group to move toward effectively resolving various housing resettlement concerns. The TWG also tackled UPAC’s People’s Plan which proposes a more participative and solution-based housing plan involving the beneficiaries from planning to program sustainability plans. “We also see challenges on the implementation of previously issued presidential proclamations and NHA housing projects. But with this TWG and our working relationship with involved agencies, we can tell that concrete solutions are underway,” Acuzar said. Earlier this year, the housing czar engaged leaders and members of UPAC in an open dialogue to tackle concerns of different urban poor organizations and align their recommendations to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program. UPAC, which represents 205,000 families from various groups headed by lead facilitator Alice Murphy, vowed to work closely with the government to properly implement any approved provisions under 4PH. The post DHSUD, urban poor activate TWG to address shelter woes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Japan PM condemns China over stone throwing at embassy, schools
Japan's prime minister urged China to ensure its people "act in a calm and responsible manner" after instances of stones being thrown at diplomatic missions and schools, following the release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant. Last week, China banned all seafood imports from its neighbor as Japan began releasing cooling water from the Fukushima plant in an operation that Tokyo and the United Nation's nuclear watchdog have said is safe. Since then, Japan has urged its citizens in China to keep a low profile and has increased security around schools and diplomatic missions. Businesses in Japan have meanwhile been swamped with nuisance calls from Chinese numbers. "There have been numerous harassment calls believed to originate from China and instances of stones being thrown at the Japanese embassy and Japanese schools. It must be said these are regrettable," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Monday. "We summoned the Chinese ambassador to Japan today and strongly urged him to call on Chinese people to act in a calm and responsible manner," Kishida told reporters. Japan's Deputy Foreign Minister Masataka Okano told the ambassador, Wu Jianghao, that China should properly inform the public "rather than unnecessarily raising people's concerns by providing information that is not based on scientific evidence", the foreign ministry said in a statement. Low profile Asked what action Beijing would take over the stone throwing, Beijing's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Monday that China "always protects the safety and legitimate rights and interests of foreigners in China, in accordance with law". "We strongly urge the Japanese side to face up to the legitimate concerns of all parties, immediately stop the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water into the sea, fully consult with its neighbors and other stakeholders, and earnestly dispose of nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner," Wang told a regular briefing. On Sunday, Japan's foreign ministry urged its citizens in to China to be "cautious in your speech and behavior. Do not speak Japanese unnecessarily or too loudly". "If you need to visit a Japanese embassy, consulate general, or Japanese school, pay close attention to your surroundings," it added. "If you happen to come across a protest or other such activities, do not approach them and do not take pictures of them with your smartphones." A range of businesses in Japan, from bakeries to an aquarium, have reportedly been subjected to thousands of crank calls that have included abusive and racist language. Social media users in China have posted recordings and videos of the calls, some of which have attracted tens of thousands of likes. 'Scientifically justified process' Japan began releasing more than 500 Olympic swimming pools' worth of diluted wastewater from Fukushima into the Pacific on Thursday, 12 years after a tsunami knocked out three reactors in one of the world's worst atomic accidents. All radioactive elements have been filtered out except for tritium, levels of which are within safe limits and below that released by nuclear power stations in their normal operations -- including in China, plant operator TEPCO says. Test results from seawater and fish samples near the plant since the start of the discharge -- which will take decades to complete -- have confirmed this, according to Japanese authorities. "Even after the ocean release, the United States, for example, expressed its position that it is satisfied with Japan's safe, highly transparent and scientifically justified process," Kishida said Monday. "We would like to convey these voices from the international community to the Chinese government." US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel plans to visit Fukushima this week and publicly eat locally caught fish in a show of support to Japan, according to media reports. The post Japan PM condemns China over stone throwing at embassy, schools appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Starfish outbreak threatens Palawan coral reefs
Puerto Princesa City, Palawan — An alarming outbreak of crown-of-thorn starfish in the northern coral reefs of Palawan has raised concerns among local authorities, prompting urgent efforts to curb their rapid spread. The outbreak, which has been reported in several key areas including El Nido, Linapacan, Taytay, Dumaran and Araceli, has sparked fears of irreversible damage to the province’s vital marine ecosystem. Board member Nieves Rosento disclosed the alarming figures on 22 August to the Provincial Board of Palawan. “In Linapacan, almost 1,800 COTS were collected by local divers. And then in El Nido, a staggering 65,209 were collected, according to data from the Malampaya Foundation,” Rosento said. Efforts to contain the outbreak have been underway in El Nido since 2009, led by dedicated volunteers from the local government. But Rosento warned the crisis is intensifying, as a recent collection in El Nido yielded 3,577 additional COTS. This surge in numbers has put Palawan’s corals at significant risk, not to mention imposed a financial burden on affected communities. “Based on our experience in El Nido, the process of collecting these starfish costs around P25,000-28,000. We don’t include payment for the divers because they’re volunteers. Normally, costs go toward fuel, food, vinegar and the divers’ air tanks,” Rosento explained. The volunteers have developed an innovative approach utilizing syringes filled with vinegar. Armed with these syringes, they plunge into the waters to inject the vinegar solution directly into the mouths of the COTS. This prompts the starfish, the venomous spikes of which prevent manual removal, to detach from the corals. Once dislodged, the COTS are transported to a safe location away from the coast to ensure that their toxic spikes do not endanger the underwater environment. The severity of the outbreak can be attributed to the COTS’ unique reproductive cycle. Unlike most starfish, which regenerate from a single limb, COTS engage in broadcast spawning. This method involves releasing eggs and sperm into the water, allowing fertilization to occur wherever the currents carry these reproductive elements. The starfish mature into adults within two to three years, producing between 60 to 100 million eggs. To counter the infestation, Rosento urged for a resolution that allocates funding and equipment to the volunteers. She also called upon local government units to maintain close surveillance of their reefs to supplement existing data and thwart further infections. Rosento also advocated for the introduction of COTS’ natural predators into affected areas. Giant triton snails, crabs, lobsters and other bottom-dwelling fish were recommended as potential solutions to curb the outbreak. “This is a temporary measure, but it can help prevent the COTS from reaching maturity,” Rosento said, underlining the pressing need for swift and sustained action to safeguard Palawan’s precious coral reefs. The post Starfish outbreak threatens Palawan coral reefs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The AI race we need
I have been following the development of AI for some time. Indeed, I told the General Assembly six years ago that AI would have a dramatic impact on sustainable development, the world of work, and the social fabric. But like everyone here, I have been shocked and impressed by the newest form of AI, generative AI, which is a radical advance in its capabilities. The speed and reach of this new technology in all its forms are utterly unprecedented. It has been compared to the introduction of the printing press. But while it took more than 50 years for printed books to become widely available across Europe, ChatGPT reached 100 million users in just two months. The finance industry estimates AI could contribute between $10 and $15 trillion US dollars to the global economy by 2030. Almost every government, large company and organization in the world is working on an AI strategy. But even its own designers have no idea where their stunning technological breakthrough may lead. It is clear that AI will have an impact on every area of our lives – including the three pillars of the United Nations. It has the potential to turbocharge global development, from monitoring the climate crisis to breakthroughs in medical research. It offers new potential to realize human rights, particularly to health and education. But the High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed alarm over evidence that AI can amplify bias, reinforce discrimination and enable new levels of authoritarian surveillance. Today’s debate is an opportunity to consider the impact of Artificial Intelligence on peace and security — where it is already raising political, legal, ethical and humanitarian concerns. AI is being put to work in connection with peace and security, including by the United Nations. It is increasingly being used to identify patterns of violence, monitor ceasefires and more, helping to strengthen our peacekeeping, mediation and humanitarian efforts. But AI tools can also be used by those with malicious intent. AI models can help people to harm themselves and each other, at massive scale. Let’s be clear: The malicious use of AI systems for terrorist, criminal or state purposes could cause horrific levels of death and destruction, widespread trauma and deep psychological damage on an unimaginable scale. AI-enabled cyberattacks are already targeting critical infrastructure and our own peacekeeping and humanitarian operations, causing great human suffering. The technical and financial barriers to access are low – including for criminals and terrorists. Both military and non-military applications of AI could have very serious consequences for global peace and security. The advent of generative AI could be a defining moment for disinformation and hate speech — undermining truth, facts and safety; adding a new dimension to the manipulation of human behavior; and contributing to polarization and instability on a vast scale. Deepfakes are just one new AI-enabled tool that, if unchecked, could have serious implications for peace and stability. And the unforeseen consequences of some AI-enabled systems could create security risks by accident. Look no further than social media. Tools and platforms that were designed to enhance human connection are now used to undermine elections, spread conspiracy theories and incite hatred and violence. Malfunctioning AI systems are another huge area of concern. And the interaction between AI and nuclear weapons, biotechnology, neurotechnology and robotics is deeply alarming. Generative AI has enormous potential for good and evil at scale. Its creators themselves have warned that much bigger, potentially catastrophic and existential risks lie ahead. Without action to address these risks, we are derelict in our responsibilities to present and future generations. We must work together for AI that bridges social, digital and economic divides, not one that pushes us further apart. We need a race to develop AI for good. To develop AI that is reliable and safe and that can end poverty, banish hunger, cure cancer and supercharge climate action; AI that propels us towards the Sustainable Development Goals. That is the race we need, and that is a race that is possible and achievable. Excerpts from the UN Secretary-General’s remarks to the Security Council on Artificial Intelligence, 18 July 2023. The post The AI race we need appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Meta faces backlash over Canada news block as wildfires rage
Meta is being accused of endangering lives by blocking news links in Canada at a crucial moment when thousands have fled their homes and are desperate for wildfire updates that once would have been shared widely on Facebook. The situation "is dangerous," said Kelsey Worth, 35, of one nearly 20,000 residents of Yellowkife and thousands more in small towns ordered to evacuate the Northwest Territories as wildfires advanced. She described to AFP how "insanely difficult" it has been for herself and other evacuees to find verifiable information about the fires blazing across the near-Arctic territory and other parts of Canada. "Nobody's able to know what's true or not," she said. "And when you're in an emergency situation, time is of the essence," she said, explaining that many Canadians until now have relied on social media for news. Meta on August 1 started blocking the distribution of news links and articles on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in response to a recent law requiring digital giants to pay publishers for news content. The company has been in a virtual showdown with Ottawa over the bill passed in June which only takes effect next year. Building on similar legislation introduced in Australia, the bill aims to support a struggling Canadian news sector that has seen a flight of advertising dollars and hundreds of publications closed in the last decade. It requires companies like Meta and Google to make fair commercial deals with Canadian outlets for the news and information -- estimated in a report to parliament to be worth Can$330 million (US$250 million) per year -- that is shared on their platforms, or face-binding arbitration. But Meta has said the bill is flawed and insisted that news outlets share content on its Facebook and Instagram platforms to attract readers, benefiting them and not the Silicon Valley firm. Profits over safety Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau this week assailed Meta, telling reporters it was "inconceivable that a company like Facebook is choosing to put corporate profits ahead of (safety)... and keeping Canadians informed about things like wildfires." Almost 80 percent of all online advertising revenues in Canada go to Meta and Google, which has expressed its own reservations about the new law. Ollie Williams, director of Cabin Radio in the far north, called Meta's move to block news sharing "stupid and dangerous." He suggested in an interview with AFP that "Meta could lift the ban temporarily in the interests of preservation of life and suffer no financial penalty because the legislation has not taken effect yet." Nicolas Servel, over at Radio Taiga, a French-language station in Yellowknife, noted that some had found ways of circumventing Meta's block. They "found other ways to share" information, he said, such as taking screenshots of news articles and sharing them from personal -- rather than corporate -- social media accounts. Life and death Several large newspapers in Canada such as the Globe and Mail and the Toronto Star have launched campaigns to try to attract readers directly to their sites. But for many smaller news outlets workarounds have proven challenging as social media platforms have become entrenched. Public broadcaster CBC in a letter this week pressed Meta to reverse course. "Time is of the essence," wrote CBC president Catherine Tait. "I urge you to consider taking the much-needed humanitarian action and immediately lift your ban on vital Canadian news and information to communities dealing with this wildfire emergency." As more than 1,000 wildfires burn across Canada, she said, "The need for reliable, trusted, and up-to-date information can literally be the difference between life and death." Meta -- which did not respond to AFP requests for comment -- rejected CBC's suggestion. Instead it urged Canadians to use the "Safety Check" function on Facebook to let others know if they are safe or not. Patrick White, a professor at the University of Quebec in Montreal, said Meta has shown itself to be a "bad corporate citizen." "It's a matter of public safety," he said, adding that he remains optimistic Ottawa will eventually reach a deal with Meta and other digital giants that addresses their concerns. The post Meta faces backlash over Canada news block as wildfires rage appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A journey of innovation and creativity among kiddie entrepreneurs
IDEAYALA 2023 offers an opportunity for the next generation of entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative business ideas and turn them into action. In addition to encouraging the youth’s creative thinking and problem-solving skills, the affair also aims to instill in them a sense of confidence and determination to pursue their dreams. Spearheaded by Ayala Malls in partnership with Kiddo-preneur, IDEAYALA’s commitment to supporting and recognizing the potential of these young minds exemplifies the group’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of business leaders in the Philippines. Following the launch at Greenbelt earlier this year, Ayala Malls and Kiddo-preneur continue to empower the youth, ages five to 17, as they make rounds at various Ayala Malls in the coming weeks and months: Market! Market! on 26 and 27 August, Ayala Malls Circuit on 2 and 3 September, Glorietta on 23 and 24 September, Ayala Malls Solenad on 7 and 8 October, Ayala Malls The 30th on 21 and 22 October, Ayala Malls Feliz on 11 and 12 November and Ayala Malls Marikina on 18 and 19 November. Future leaders Launched in 2014 as the brainchild of Mariana Zobel de Ayala and Paloma U. Zobel, IDEAYALA is a visionary project that aims to inspire, train and challenge young minds to innovate and create viable, sustainable and market-inclusive mall experiences or entrepreneurial concepts. Seeking to envision the “mall of the future,” some of these ideas may even hold the potential to address the country’s social and environmental concerns. Previously, IDEAYALA mostly engaged college students through talks, mentorship programs and competitions. After seeing how the pandemic affected numerous businesses, particularly the micro, small and medium enterprises, IDEAYALA took on a different shape. This year’s IDEAYALA initiative focused on developing a new generation of strong business leaders by engaging entrepreneurs as young as five years old. This shift in approach sparked a partnership between IDEAYALA and Kiddo-preneur, a socially oriented non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing entrepreneurship among the youth. Together with Ayala Malls, Kiddo-preneur is driving meaningful change by propelling the next generation of young entrepreneurs forward. “IDEAYALA was created by our need to define the ‘mall for the future,’” shared Mark Sablan, vice president and head of Leasing of Ayala Malls. “Fast forward to today, after the pandemic, we revisited the concept of IDEAYALA together with Kiddo-prener because we believe these young minds will be the source of inspiration and new concepts that we’ll be discovering in the next coming years.” IDEAYALA co-founder Zobel de Ayala added, “It’s exciting to be in the midst of all this creativity. It’s also impressive to see kids this young conceptualizing and executing fresh ideas and new solutions. Our goal now at IDEAYALA is to nurture this mindset and encourage the kids to keep imagining new and sustainable business models and ideas for the future.” Opportunities Hundreds of kids launched their businesses through IDEAYALA. Some of the businesses showcased at recently concluded events in Greenbelt, TriNoma and Fairview Terraces were eight-year-old Mariella Oreta’s Science in a Jar, an education-oriented business that sold live caterpillars; Zara, Zree and Zac Chua’s Cafe de Slime, which sold slime sets; and siblings Vino and Bella Bugayong’s VB Pantry, which sold treats and refreshments to hungry mallgoers. Other notable highlights were the Build-A-Brand Workshop, where 50 young kiddo-preneurs were challenged to get creative and create and present their very own shampoo brand. The kids also got the chance to listen and learn from industry titans: Jollibee Foods Corporation president and chief executive officer Ato Tanmantiong and the founder and namesake of the well-loved Mary Grace Café, Mary Grace Dimacali, who shared their humble beginnings and how they grew their businesses into the empires they are today. The post A journey of innovation and creativity among kiddie entrepreneurs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
More German firms eyeing Phl investments
More German firms are inclined to invest in the country given the Philippines’ good economic and investment posture, according to a recent survey from the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. This was revealed by GPCCI President Stefan Schmitz during his meeting with Philippine Economic Zone Authority director general Tereso Panga last Tuesday, 22 August. During the meeting, GPCCI presented to PEZA the results of its bi-annual AHK World Business Outlook survey conducted among the GPCCI members. According to GPCCI, the results of the Spring 2023 survey revealed that the Philippines generally exhibited a better/higher result in the areas of economy, investments, employment, overall situation and expectations. In terms of investments, the survey revealed that 46 percent of the participating GPCCI members are likely to invest more in the country within the next 12 months. Recent advancements in EU-Phl FTA Given the recent advancements in the EU-Philippines free trade agreement and the positive outcome of a successful economic briefing in Germany back in July, we are confident that many German businesses will increasingly consider investing in the Philippines,” stated GPCCI president Schmitz. Despite this, GPCCI also raised some issues and concerns affecting German investors including the amendment of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises or CREATE Law, as well as the PEZA Law, the high cost of doing business in the country, and the swift implementation of Executive Order 18. Issued on 23 February 2023, EO 18 is part of the Marcos administration’s eight-point agenda, which mandates all government offices, including the local government units, to expedite the processes involved in the issuance of permits, licenses, and certifications required to implement. The policy also directs the Board of Investments’ One-Stop Action Center as a Single Point of Entry further ensuring efficiency and ease of doing business in the country. PEZA accedes In response to this, Panga shared that PEZA is happy with surveys that compare the Philippines across ASEAN as it shows a vibrant outlook for the country as an investment destination. Highest growth rate in ASEAN “In ASEAN now, the Philippines is projected to have the highest GDP growth rate, making the Philippines one of the best-performing economies in the region and we need to take advantage of that. We don’t want to pass up on these opportunities. We can only realize these FDI leads if we’re able to improve our ease and cost of doing business,” he explained. Further, Panga said that they are glad that the President has already issued a compelling statement, directing concerned government offices to look into the CREATE, with the objective of amending it “… so that immediately we can provide relief to our locators who are unable to fully enjoy their incentives.” “These are the investors we have attracted to invest in the Philippines because of that promise of benefits and incentives as contained in the CREATE and in our registration agreements with PEZA. I think that should be the starting point before we can echo the call of the President to global investors that the Philippines is the smart investment destination in the region and that the best time to invest in the Philippines is now. We need to honor our commitments,” he explained. Panga also mentioned that PEZA will ask Congress to amend the 28-year-old PEZA Law to be able to cope with the demands of agile locators and remain competitive worldwide amid the fast-changing market trends. PEZA and the GPCCI both vowed to strengthen their collaborations to continuously attract German investors and other foreign investments in the country and even encourage existing investors to expand operations in the ecozones. GPCCI president Schmitz said, “With our longstanding partnership with PEZA, we eagerly anticipate offering our unwavering support to foster the promotion of the Philippines among German investors.” “We are positive that with your help, we can amplify our brand of service so that as we promote ecozones, we create connectivity until such time that the Philippines is dotted with all ecozones and we can see, at best, ease of doing business in the country so that investors will be able to maximize their investments in the Philippines and we can be more competitive in the region,” expressed the PEZA chief. PEZA currently hosts 40 registered German locator companies/projects which contribute P42.865 billion in investments (1.57 percent of the total PEZA investments), $412.664 million in exports, and 21,005 direct jobs. The post More German firms eyeing Phl investments appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ipilan mining cease order backed
Puerto Princesa City, PALAWAN — Anti-mining supporters in a Southern Palawan town gathered Monday morning for a celebratory motorcade and assembly to rally behind the implementation of the cease-and-desist order issued by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples against the mining activities of Ipilan Nickel Corporation. The motorcade started from Barangay Calasaguen and passed through Barangay Maasin, the location of Ipilan’s mining operations in Brooke’s Point town, and proceeded to the poblacion area to the Octagon Plaza. They said that the move aims to increase awareness about the purpose of the CDO directed at the mining company and organizer Job Lagrada expressed gratitude to all attendees and stressed the significance of united efforts in the ongoing struggle. “The objective of this is to communicate to all of you the purpose of this CDO issued against INC. Thank you to all who participated in this activity for your continuous fight, and now we’ve been heard,” Lagrada said. Gil Valdestamon, a farmer from Barangay Aribungos supporting the anti-mining cause, also conveyed a message during the rally. Valdestamon is among the farmers opposing Ipilan’s operation, believing it will cause significant harm to Brooke’s Point, particularly the Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape where Ipilan’s mining operation is said to have encroached. “May this be a great help for us, we’ve been heard. Let’s stay united to continue our fight; we need to stand together,” Valdestamon said. Meantime, Vice Mayor Mary Jean Feliciano — a strong advocate against mining -- emphasized that the journey to uphold the writ of kalikasan and the CDO had only just begun. She also urged the youth to join the fight and make their voices heard, sharing her own experience of suspension due to accusations of abusing power. “This writ of kalikasan and CDO are really just the beginning; the journey is far from over. Let’s fight for this. To the youth, stand up for this. You remember, I was suspended because they said I abused my mayoral powers,” Feliciano said. “Even though the law is good, if this is how it’s interpreted, where else can I turn? I’ve done nothing but pray, and my daily prayer is that they won’t be given silence because what they’re doing is wrong,” she added. She also discussed concerns about the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, highlighting past resolutions that have been proposed. Feliciano questioned why the mining activities of Ipilan, operating without proper permits and compliance, had not been adequately addressed. “The DENR, MGB, we’ve had numerous resolutions since then. This is the mine without permits, without CP. Why haven’t you taken action?” Feliciano said. Last week, Ipilan acknowledged the Supreme Court’s decision to issue a writ of kalikasan as the ruling offers them an opportunity to address and refute repetitive baseless allegations, which have consistently been disproven by various government entities. According to the mining company, the ruling does not disrupt Ipilan’s activities since the request for a Temporary Environmental Protection Order has been declined. It added that it contrary to claims, they refrained from mining within the overlapping area in Mt. Mantalingahan, and that allegations related to tree-cutting activities were conducted under the authority of a valid permit, upheld by the court. The post Ipilan mining cease order backed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Food as human right
A recent Social Weather Stations survey showed that around 2.7 million Filipino families experienced hunger during the first quarter of 2023. A nationwide survey conducted among 1,200 adults found that 9.8 percent of Filipino families experienced “involuntary hunger” or hunger due to lack of food at least once in the past three months. Worldwide hunger is on the rise, affecting nearly 10 percent of the global population. The Food and Agriculture Organization estimates approximately 811 million people worldwide suffered from chronic hunger between 2020 and 2022. In a world where hunger and malnutrition continue to afflict millions — a crisis driven largely by conflict, climate change, the Covid-19 pandemic, and most of all, greed — we look back to a UN declaration that catalyzes action urging governments to prioritize policies and allocate resources to eradicate hunger and malnutrition. It emphasizes the need to adopt sustainable agricultural practices, promote equitable food distribution systems, and invest in rural development to enhance food security, which remains a pressing global issue. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1948, indirectly addresses the right to food under various articles. However, the explicit articulation of the right by the UN came later. In 1976, the United Nations General Assembly formally recognized the right to adequate food as a human right through the adoption of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights — one of the key international human rights treaties that make up the International Bill of Human Rights. Article 11 of the ICESCR specifically acknowledges “the right of everyone to an adequate standard of living, including adequate food” and underscores the essential nature of the right to food. As of today, the covenant has been signed and ratified by 170 countries, including the Philippines. Hence, the right to food is a legal obligation of all State Parties, anchored on international law. There is more to hunger than just the mere lack of food. Ending the hunger crisis will take understanding its nature and the reasons why it exists in a world abundant in resources like our country, where the rich-poor divide is among the widest in East Asia and the Pacific region. Food as a human right knows no socio-economic status, ethnicity, or geographical location. Therefore, reinforcing the declaration’s principles of dignity, equality, and social justice is a responsibility placed on the governments and organizations to ensure the fulfillment of this right. Policymakers, enablers, and implementors should tackle the root causes of food insecurity. The triggers of food insufficiency — socio-economic disparities, unequal access to resources, and systemic injustices — are not to be left as a PowerPoint presentation file. It calls for comprehensive strategies that will balance economic development with sustainable food systems devoid of self-serving interests. Importantly, the entitlement to nourishment does not suggest that it is the responsibility of the government or any other organization to constantly supply food to every Filipino. Rather, it signifies that governments are obligated to establish circumstances and implement policies that guarantee accessibility to food, foster sustainable farming practices, and tackle concerns such as poverty, inequality, and food insecurity. We cannot feed hungry people with greed, nor break the cycle of poverty and ensure the long-term availability of food resources for future generations. The post Food as human right appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»