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Carla wala nang pakialam sa lovelife ni Tom; ayaw nang magpakasal uli
HINDI na nakikita ng Kapuso actress na si Carla Abellana ang kanyang sarili na nagpapakasal kahit pa makatagpo uli siya ng bagong lalaking mamahalin. Ayon kay Carla, nagbago talaga ang pananaw niya tungkol sa kasal matapos mawasak ang marriage nila ng ex-husband na si Tom Rodriguez na tumagal lamang ng ilang buwan. Sabi pa ng.....»»
PBBM skips PCCI annual event’s end
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. failed to attend the final day of the 49th Philippine Business Conference and Expo, or PBCE, sending Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin instead. PBCE is the main assembly yearly of the country’s biggest trade group Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. An incumbent president usually attends the second day of the PBCE to personally receive the business group’s resolution and suggestions on various issues. Malacañang did not give any detail on Marcos’ failure the biggest gathering of businessmen yearly. However, Vice President Sara Duterte attended the first day of the conference, in which she urged PCCI officials and members to join the Department of Education in reviewing the current senior high school system and provide valuable insights on skills matching in order to produce employable graduates. Besides the President, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual also did not make it which according to the Department of Trade and Industry communication’s chief, Undersecretary Kim Lokin, Pascual has not been feeling well since Wednesday. Cabinet officials, however, were in the event. They included Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, Information and Communications Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy, Energy Assistant Secretary Mario Marasigan and Internal Revenue Commissioner Artemio Lumagui Jr. Resolution submitted Bersamin received PCCI’s resolution, handed over by PCCI president George Barcelon and PBCE chairperson Felino Palafox. The resolution included the positions of various sectors, namely agriculture, energy and power; the environment and climate change; education and human resources development; industry and trade; ease of doing business and stability of rules and regulations; infrastructure, transport and logistics; innovation and digitalization; taxation, and tourism. Under the sectors of agriculture, energy and power, the business group urged the national government to develop a long-term plan to attain food security in agriculture and fishery through infrastructure support, technology transfer, product diversification, export enhancement, economies of scale, and adherence to the improvement of value chains and supply chains. For energy and power, the PCCI wanted the Marcos administration to ensure adequate and affordable power supply throughout the country by considering modern technology and harnessing renewable energy resources that meet the criteria of reliability and affordability. In terms of caring for the environment and climate change, PCCI officers and members also wanted the government to update and continue the execution of the National Framework Strategy on Climate Change (2010- 2022) which envisions a climate risk-resilient Philippines with healthy, safe, prosperous, and self-reliant communities and thriving and productive ecosystems. For education and human resources development, the government was urged to propel the Philippine education system to world-class status by harnessing new technologies, fostering innovation, and implementing comprehensive reforms that will prepare students for success in the digital age and the globalized world of work. Empowering businesses For industry and trade, the Marcos administration wanted to empower industries and enterprises by providing them with the necessary tools, resources, and support programs to enhance their competitiveness both in the domestic and international markets, contribute to economic growth, and promote innovation in the Philippines’ industrial and trade sectors. Furthermore, the government was also advised to provide a stable and predictable business environment by ensuring clear, consistent, and transparent regulations, streamlining and simplifying bureaucratic processes, reducing unnecessary red tape, and eliminating barriers that hinder business growth and development. Bersamin received PCCI’s resolution, handed over by PCCI president George Barcelon and PBCE chairperson Felino Palafox. Despite the ongoing Build, Better More infrastructure program, PCCI urged the government to implement a comprehensive national infrastructure, transportation and logistics master plan that outlines a long-term vision for connectivity and country-wide development. Together with the goal of urban decongestion, the strategy shall encompass the development of growth/business centers in different regions to create more employment opportunities and encourage people to relocate outside Metro Manila. The post PBBM skips PCCI annual event’s end appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PSE is drafting Holcim Rule to shield minority investors from future bureaucratic pains
The President of the Philippine Stock Exchange, Ramon Monzon, said in an interview that the PSE is drafting a rule to penalize companies that push their public float below the PSE’s minimum public ownership threshold before completing a tender offer......»»
Moratorium vs NDCP career grant imposed
Malacañang has imposed a moratorium on the grant of career executive service rank to graduates of the National Defense College of the Philippines. The Memorandum Circular No. 35, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on 2 October, has suspended the implementation of Executive Order 145 that grants CES rank to the graduates of the Master in National Security Administration program of the NDCP. The MC 35 underscored the need to re-evaluate the foregoing policy of granting CES rank to graduates of the MNSA program of the NDCP, “in order to ensure that its objectives are consistent with existing laws, rules and regulations.” “The implementation of EO 145 is hereby suspended, pending the study of the policy implications of EO 145, and consultations with relevant stakeholders, including the NDCP, to be conducted by the CES Board,” the new order stated. Within 60 days from the issuance of the MC 35, the CES Board is tasked to submit to the Office of the President, through the Office of the Executive Secretary, a comprehensive report on its findings together with its recommendations which will include either the lifting of the moratorium or the revocation of the EO 145. The MC 35 states that one of the strategies for good governance and improving bureaucratic efficiency under the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 “is to guarantee competent and agile human resources in the government,” which includes strengthening the CES through the continuous updating of its programs, and the development of a new competency framework for the public sector. The post Moratorium vs NDCP career grant imposed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Regional groups promote linkages
To link business owners, the Management Association of the Philippines had sealed a partnership with two other ASEAN business organizations. During MAP’s international CEO Conference last week, the group president, Benedicta Du-Baladad, sealed a memorandum of partnership and cooperation with the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce and the Thailand Management Association. Singaporean SICC chairperson Bicky Bhangu and TMA president Nithi Patarachoke signed the MPC with Baladad, witnessed by the ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn who delivered the keynote address during the Conference, George Barcelon, a Philippines representative to the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, and Ambassador Tull Traisorat of Thailand. Deeper business linkages as goal The MPC seeks to deepen business linkages within the region and assure its active cooperation in the goal towards ASEAN centrality, described as “the primary driving force in its relations and cooperation with its external partners.” Aside from sharing best management practices, the partnership aims to pursue mutually beneficial partnerships within the region through undertaking education, information activities, and training programs that can enhance the knowledge and skills of management practitioners and future leaders, and advocate for reforms that will improve the ease of doing business in the ASEAN region. “The future of integration in ASEAN should be characterized by strong partnerships, development driven by innovation, as well as an inclusive approach that gives priority to the people,” Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr. Hourn emphasized in his keynote speech. The partnership initiated by MAP can potentially open the gateway for exploring direct business opportunities among companies in the region and take advantage of the benefits of trade liberalization. Since the members of each of these organizations are already known, it can shorten the process of looking for partners and directly engaging those already involved in the industries of interest. “The bottom line is recovery and growth — and these two are shared goals that can transcend shifting alliances. By enabling these linkages at the business and industry level, we can bypass the bureaucratic impediments and go straight to building partnerships and forging long-term relationships,” Baladad explained. The post Regional groups promote linkages appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Chronic bureaucratic lapses
The entire bureaucracy suffers from serious lapses. Let’s borrow the phrase, “seven deadly sins,” as a handle to better understand how they indicatively fail to inform public policy on what government “should do or should not do,” to wit: First: “Tight fiscal space.” A little over 60 percent of GDP (gross domestic product) is reserved for foreign lending institutions with which the country has huge borrowings. Consequently, the government has to make do with the remaining less than 40 percent in terms of public spending. It’s no urban legend that about 45 percent of these allocable public funds is siphoned off due to massive corruption across all levels of government. Second: “Good governance.” The term, as often used, is an oxymoron. Whenever presidential appointees in any line department, agency, or bureau introduce reforms or new management ideas into state affairs, it’s unfortunate that outcomes and impacts go in the opposite direction — or bad governance overshadowing good. Isn’t it a paradox that the “top brass” of the Manila International Airport Authority were dismissed by the Ombudsman even as key stakeholders and captains of industry (i.e., the Makati Business Club) vetted and vouched for their performance par excellence on the job? Contrivedly, a purely management issue just shouldn’t be within the purview of the Ombudsman. For another, how is it that the housing program has become too costly for the government? Reportedly, P36 billion in interest is accrued by the government every year if one million houses are built. With a target of three million houses, the onerous interest is pegged at P100 billion every year, a “sunk cost” that the economy can ill afford to sustain. Why even start a program that demands that humongous amount of interest on a year-by-year basis? Third: “Street-level bureaucracy.” Nearly the whole range of public affairs appears to be manned by those we can compare to a typical traffic enforcer, gate guard, or utility aide, who, if given a chance to exercise a little authority, tend to behave as their actuations come directly from above. Fourth: “Tax hike.” Some strange mathematicians in Congress thought of taxing vehicles per kilo of weight, coupled with jacking up taxes on vehicle users by as much as 90 percent. Worse, how can there be an increase in the road users’ tax – year in and year out? Fifth: “45 seconds turnaround time.” This is the kind of rhetoric that rests on the “big bluff” or what one legislator calls a “promissory note,” or the carrot, to get what they want in their agency budgets. Scenes like offloading, missed flights, and logjams would never be a thing of the past since the Bureau of Immigration operationalized its new set of guidelines that are essentially racist, if not anti-poor, against outbound Filipino travelers, while sparing foreign travelers. Sixth: “Privatization overdrive.” There’s a dangerous pattern or trend of government aiming to privatize the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, all 45 casinos of PAGCOR, some mass transport systems (e.g., LRTs), and the toll expressways. Whether or not this privatization track is driven by the “gospel of efficiency” is another story. More likely, it’s because it opens doors to raising “windfall capital” and making available “alternative investments.” Seventh: “Multiple allotments.” As if a mere afterthought, there are “double entries,” even multiple ones, in the National Expenditure Plan that bloat the budget and such entries by various agencies even insulate them from any accountability. This explains why what is budgeted — twice or thrice — cannot be disbursed over and over again, not to mention the perennial failure of most line departments to fully utilize their budgets. In the voluminous General Appropriations Act the President signs, every budget cycle has become a “hiding place” for public funds that only trained eyes can declassify as “significant others,” for lack of a better term. It isn’t remote to say that when an agency prepares its budget, it knows under which item in its “shopping list” the money is. The post Chronic bureaucratic lapses appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Capped
tarting today, the price cap imposed on retail prices for rice comes into effect. I fear this bureaucratic measure will open a Pandora’s Box of endless trouble for our economy......»»
Lapid eyes credit assistance program for OFWs
Senator Manuel “Lito” Lapid is rallying for the establishment of a credit assistance program for Overseas Filipino Workers to recognize their contributions to the country’s economy. Lapid filed Senate Bill 2390 or an Act Establishing a Credit Assistance Program for Overseas Filipino Workers, which allows beneficiaries to avail themselves of a loan of up to P50,000 from the Overseas Worker and Welfare Administration. “It is not enough that we acknowledge the contributions of OFWs to the country. A word without corresponding action is nothing. In recognizing their immense role in our economy, we must respond to their needs to repay their sacrifices,” he said. Lapid explained the program targets to defray the living expenses of OFWs’ dependents during the first three months of absences, as well as recruitment expenses, including placement fees, documentation costs, and plane tickets. Under the bill, the loan shall be paid in 12 equal monthly installments or more but not exceeding 24 months at a preferred interest rate not to exceed six percent per annum. “It cannot be overly stressed how important the role OFWs play in the shaping of the country's economy,” Lapid said, noting that cash remittances from OFWs hit a record high in 2021, while the world was reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Records from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas showed that cash remittances coursed through banks rose by 5.1 percent to $31,418 billion in 2021 from $29,903 billion in 2020. “For this reason, the least that we can do to repay them is to craft programs that would allow access to services more easily and without the rigorous processes which are laden with bureaucratic runarounds,” Lapid pointed out. The post Lapid eyes credit assistance program for OFWs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Salt maker request: Redeem our dying industry, amend ‘Asin’Law
A gourmet salt manufacturer in Albuquerque, Bohol is asking for the country’s lawmakers to amend Republic Act 8172, otherwise known as the Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide or ASIN Law, as the statute continues to kill their industry that has been operating in Albuquerque for more than a century now. In an interview, Nestor Manungas, proprietor of ASINAN ni Tan Inong, the maker of the unique Asin Tibuok, said RA 8172 has been hindering them to manufacture the condiment because the law mandates that salt produced in the country should contain iodine. “We cannot do that in our product because our way of producing Asin Tibuok is completely different from the normal way of making salt. We use direct heat, so minerals, like iodine, will definitely wear out or destroy the product,” he said. Signed into law by late-President Fidel V. Ramos in 1995, RA 8172 seeks to eliminate iodine deficiency disorders by mandating all salt producers and manufacturers to iodize their products. Ease of Doing Business Also, Manungas hit the Food and Drug Administration for being so sluggish in releasing approvals on their product, despite the presence of the Ease of Doing Business Law. “The US FDA is even better, we got it quickly. But here, we got them (FDA permit) more than two years ago. Although the Department of Trade and Industry helped us in the process, but it’s still too long. Other manufacturers have already given up on operating here because of bureaucratic hardships in acquiring business operation permits,” according to Manungas. Manungas’ Asin Tibuok, under the company Tan Inong Manufacturing Corporation, is currently making waves in terms of exports in various parts of the world, particularly in the United States, Europe, Australia, Japan and China. “This year we have a huge demand in Europe. Foreigners appreciate our salt as they find it totally different from Himalayan salt because it has a smoky flavor that they like in the taste of their food. But hopefully, we can sell on a large scale here in the country. I hope the business founded by our ancestors will not be dissolved,” he said. Stringent process Making Asin Tibuok, said to be on the brink of extinction, is not easy as it is very labor-intensive. Traditionally, Asin Tibuok making begins by soaking coconut husks for three months in saltwater coming from pools by the mangrove at the back of the manufacturing house of Manungas in Albuquerque. These husks will go through the burning process in a highly controlled manner. Subsequently, the ashes collected from the burnt are manually poured on large filters and more seawater will be poured through the ashes to make a very highly concentrated brine. After this, specially made clay pots are placed over a wood fire, and the concentrated brine is transferred continuously for eight hours into the boiling pots. Manungas and his assistants usually keep a close eye on evaporation so that the pots will not crack, resulting in a smoky sphere of salt that can weigh as much as one kilo. These pots of rocky salt are priced at P800. Business group support Since last year, the Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc. has been urging lawmakers to amend Republic Act 8172 to revive the country’s salt production industry. Its president, Danilo Fausto said the country continues to import 93 percent of its salt requirement, even though the Philippines has the second longest shoreline in the world. “We have 36,000 kilometers of shoreline. It’s really embarrassing that we are importing salt from Australia and China, and some also in Thailand and New Zealand,” Fausto said. Fausto added the country in 2021 imported 646,000 metric tons of salt, which is being used as fertilizer for coconut trees. On the other hand, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry is also pushing for amendments to the Asin Law to help local manufacturers in the country, aside from other monumental reforms that would help micro, small, and medium enterprises to recoup from the ill effects of the pandemic and economic headwinds. But during his second State of the Nation Address, the proposed amendment for the ASIN Law was not included on the priority bills President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. requested for lawmakers of the House of Representatives to focus on. The post Salt maker request: Redeem our dying industry, amend ‘Asin’Law appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DoTr taps private groups for projects
Given the issues of limited funding and bureaucratic barriers, the Marcos administration reiterated that it needs the help of the private sector to pursue large-scale infrastructure projects. Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista pointed out that the private sector has the required expertise in transportation planning, architecture, landscape architecture, civil engineering, and other aspects of the projects. “The Marcos administration is committed to leveraging the private sector’s efficiency and flexibility,” he said. Bautista made the remark on Thursday following the contract signing for four of the agency’s Infrastructure Flagship Projects’ consultancy services Consultancy deal inked The DoTr signed the deal for consultancy services with the Public-Private Partnership Center, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, and SyCip Gorres Velayo & Company for the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit operations and maintenance and feasibility studies for the NCR EDSA Busway, Manila Bay-Pasig River-Laguna Lake Ferry System and North Long Haul Inter-Regional Railway. “Pursuant to the President’s directive, the DoTr is working full speed and is commencing the feasibility studies of four IFPs,” the Transport chief said. The North Long Haul Inter-Regional Railway will be an 800-kilometer railway, which will reconstruct the legacy railway to Ilocos and Cagayan Valley and will provide better transportation for passengers and goods, linking rapidly urbanizing economic centers in the northern and northeastern parts of Luzon. To recall, the DoTr relaunched and improved the MAPALLAF Project in hopes of finally easing the gridlock, especially in major thoroughfares in Metro Manila. After it faced headwinds in the last two decades, the project is now a priority transport infrastructure project under the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. The MAPALLAF Ferry System aims to provide close to 10 million commuters with an alternative mode of transport through the waterways of Metro Manila, Cavite and Laguna. Meanwhile, the NCR EDSA Busway, another priority project, will enhance the existing EDSA Carousel. It will introduce new stations and upgrade existing facilities to be universally accessible, gender-responsive, and climate resilient — all aligned to international standards. The project may also involve the introduction of electric buses, reducing carbon emissions along heavily trafficked corridors of Metro Manila. On the other hand, the 13.18-kilometer bus lane in Cebu stretching from Mambaling to Cebu IT Park, the Cebu BRT is expected to serve up to 160,000 passengers daily in its full operations. The post DoTr taps private groups for projects appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Davao deploys ‘Jr.’ youth officials
DAVAO CITY — The City Social Welfare Development Office here — in partnership with the Pederasyon ng Sangguniang Kabataan — kicked off last Monday the first-ever City Junior Officials program. CSWDO child and youth welfare division chief Gilda Salvaña disclosed that the initiative is part of the Linggo ng Kabataan on 4 to 11 August. A total of 50 young people between the ages 13-17 will be taking on the role of junior city government executives for a week. Salvaña said that after a systematic filtering process, one of them was chosen as the junior city mayor, a vice mayor, 27 city councilors, while the rest will act as junior city department heads. “This aims to develop and hone leadership skills among the youth and to encourage their active participation in policy-making and local governance,” Salvaña said. From 7 to 11 August, the chosen junior officials will assume their assigned roles and learn the functions and mandate of their office. Through their executive roles, the participants will have the privilege of observing the bureaucratic processes of the local government up close. The post Davao deploys ‘Jr.’ youth officials appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
House receives P5.7-T proposed nat’l budget
The Department of Budget and Management or DBM on Wednesday submitted to House Speaker Martin Romualdez the P5.768-trillion proposed national budget for next year, which the lawmaker said would provide Congress enough time to evaluate the soundness of the fund allocations. DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman delivered the proposal, also called the National Expenditure Program, on the date she promised after it was handed over to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last month. “Your submission of the proposed national budget in less than 10 days from the start of the regular session of Congress provides the House ample time to study, discuss, and deliberate on the point of the proposal, and formulate a national budget that is responsive to the development needs of our country,” Romualdez said. Compared to this year’s outlay, the proposed national budget for 2024 is higher by 9.5 percent. Pangandaman had said in June that the national budget should be passed into law swiftly as it had been pre-approved by President Marcos and the government department heads. She said the individual budgets proposed by government agencies totaled P5.90 trillion before the DBM trimmed it down to P5.768 trillion based on the agencies’ fund utilization capacities and the feasibility of their planned projects. The proposed national budget will also undergo Senate deliberations before the consolidated version will be submitted to Marcos for his signature which would make it a law. Pangandaman said priority allocations of the budget include education, infrastructure, and agriculture projects that are aligned with the goals of the administration’s Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. For agriculture, the allocation was set at P30.87 billion for rice production, P5.28 billion for corn, and P1.94 billion for high-value crops, among others. “Higher investments will also be provided for agricultural support services, such as irrigation and the construction and rehabilitation of fish ports across the country and farm-to-market roads in key production areas,” Pangandaman said. For infrastructure development, the proposed fund amounts to P1.42 trillion or 5.3 percent of the gross domestic product and covers schools, hospitals and health centers, water and power systems, roads, railways and airports. Climate change projects Among other priorities are climate change projects with an allocation of P543.45 billion, its bulk dedicated to water security. Another is social development programs with a proposed fund of P112.8 billion to help 4.4 million families through the cash-transfer program Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program of the Department of Social and Welfare Development. Pangandaman said the pension for indigent senior citizens was doubled to P49.81 billion and would benefit more than 4 million. Meanwhile, the housing allocation was pegged at P9 billion and will be used to shelter 6.5 million families over the next five years. Education received the highest fund proposal as required by the Constitution at P924.7 billion. The Philippines would be “one step closer” to realizing the government’s “transformative vision” for the country once Congress accepts the proposed budget according to President Marcos. In his message, Marcos explained that the proposed budget aims to provide the resources required for government operations and the ongoing pursuit of economic reform. The planned budget is P9.5 trillion more than the P5.268-trillion General Appropriations Act for 2023. “With the Congress’ approval of the proposed (Fiscal Year) 2024 National Budget, we will be one step closer to achieving our transformative vision for the country, the Agenda of Prosperity,” Marcos said. “Our journey has just begun. We will march on — one nation, one people building a better future together,” he added. The President said that the proposed budget for 2024 was a key part of the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, which aims to strengthen the country’s capabilities, protect the buying power of Filipinos, and improve output sectors to create more good jobs and products that can compete globally. “In turn, these strategies are to be supported by an enabling environment characterized by macroeconomic stability, infrastructure development, bureaucratic efficiency, strong rule of law, and effective climate action,” Marcos said. The post House receives P5.7-T proposed nat’l budget appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Proposed P5.768T 2024 budget 9.8% higher than 2023
The Philippines would be "one step closer" to realizing the government's "transformative vision" for the country once Congress accepts the proposed National Budget for 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said. The Chief Executive made the remarks in his Budget Message on Wednesday as the Department of Budget and Management turned over the Marcos administration’s proposed 2024 budget or National Expenditure Program worth P5.768 trillion to Congress. In his message, Marcos explained that the proposed budget aims to provide the resources required for government operations and the ongoing pursuit of economic reform. Initial information from the DBM showed that the proposed budget is 9.8 percent higher than the P5.268 trillion General Appropriations Act or the enacted budget for 2023. "With the Congress's approval of the proposed (Fiscal Year) 2024 National Budget, we will be one step closer to achieving our transformative vision for the country, the Agenda of Prosperity," Marcos said. "Our journey has just begun. We will march on — one nation, one people building a better future together," he added. The President said that the proposed budget for 2024 was a key part of the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, which aims to strengthen the country's capabilities, protect the buying power of Filipinos, and improve output sectors to create more good jobs and products that can compete globally. "In turn, these strategies are to be supported by an enabling environment characterized by macroeconomic stability, infrastructure development, bureaucratic efficiency, strong rule of law and effective climate action," Marcos said. The President also highlighted the "strong headwinds" the country had to deal with last year as it tried to get its economy back on track. He pointed out that his economic managers made the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework, which is now the "bedrock" of the plan to change the economy, to deal with these problems. The Chief Executive said that the Philippines' gross domestic product grew by 7.6 percent for the whole year of 2022, the biggest since 1976. Marcos said that the country's growth "set the stage" for continued growth in 2023, mentioning that the country's economy expanded by 6.4 percent for the first quarter of 2023, surpassing its Asian peers such as Indonesia, China and Vietnam. The World Bank, he also said, declared that the country could reach above-middle-income status within two years. "Likewise expressing confidence in our country's economic growth, the International Monetary Fund said that it was 'highest among the ASEAN-5', noting its resilience to global pressures," the Filipino leader added. Marcos Jr. likewise cited the country's good credit quality standing, improved revenue performance and high employment rate. "Our immediate economic recovery was the result of the collective effort of the Filipinos. Unity was what made it happen," Marcos said. "For the next five years, we must do more, building on all the gains that we have made – through the same whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. We need this not only to be effective but to be transformative," he concluded. The post Proposed P5.768T 2024 budget 9.8% higher than 2023 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
LTO taps PNP vs fixers
The Land Transportation Office announced on Tuesday that it is planning to seek assistance of the Philippine National Police to conduct regular anti-fixer operations in all the agency’s offices nationwide. LTO chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza II said that the plan is in line with the agency’s intensified crackdown against fixers who are using social media for their illegal activities. “We are planning to conduct operations on a regular basis. Sustained operations by joining the PNP and the LTO will surely make these fixers think twice before engaging in their illicit activities,” Mendoza said. He added that sustained operations against fixers will complement the deployment of “mystery applicants” who are tasked to report the status of operations and service transactions in all district offices of the LTO. The deployment of “mystery applicants” is one of the strategies of the LTO chief to get a clear picture of what is happening in the district offices, including the identification of service-related loopholes that the agency could still improve. Mendoza stressed that he is particularly interested in ensuring that the services down to the farthest LTO district offices are satisfactory, timely and are done with integrity and courteousness to their clients. He also emphasized that sustained operations against fixers and improved services are part of the good formula to drive fixers out of their illegal business. “The certainty that these people will be punished, I always maintain, is one of the best ways to address this problem,” Mendoza said, adding that the public would not avail the help of these fixers if they see that the LTO is providing efficient and effective services. “We must ensure that the services of the LTO are efficient and effective, and less complicated for the public. We will work towards more simple measures as we do away from bureaucratic processes,” Mendoza said. The post LTO taps PNP vs fixers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
LTO to tap PNP in running after fixers
Land Transportation Office Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza II on Tuesday said he is planning to seek the assistance of the Philippine National Police in running after fixers in all the agency’s offices nationwide. The operations, according to Mendoza, would also include a crackdown on fixers using social media for their illegal activities. “We are planning to conduct operations on a regular basis. Sustained operations by the PNP and the LTO will surely make these fixers think twice before engaging in their illicit activities,” Mendoza said. He explained that the sustained operations against fixers will complement the deployment of “mystery applicants” who are tasked to report the status of operations and service transactions in all district offices of the LTO. The deployment of “mystery applicants” is one of the strategies of the LTO chief to get a clear picture of what is happening in the district offices, including the identification of service-related loopholes for improvement. Mendoza said he is particularly interested in ensuring that the services down to the farthest LTO district offices are satisfactory, timely and are done with integrity and courteousness to the public. Sustained operations against fixers and improved services are part of the good formula to drive fixers out of their illegal business, he stressed. “The certainty that these people will be punished, I always maintain, is one of the best ways to address this problem,” Mendoza said. “We must ensure that the services of the LTO are efficient and effective, and less complicated for the public. We will work toward more simple measures as we do away from bureaucratic processes,” he added. The post LTO to tap PNP in running after fixers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gov’t agencies renew one-stop shop partnership
Clark Freeport — To continue providing seamless service in one area, the Clark Development Corporation, Mabalacat City local government unit, Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation have renewed their partnership for the One Stop Processing Center here. CDC president and CEO Atty. Agnes Devanadera said that the OSPC is a testament to the various government agencies’ adoption of a whole-of-government approach, providing the Filipino masses a more streamlined operation and seamless services offered in one area. “By consolidating services at the OSPC, we simplify the process for our constituents, reducing their burden and enhancing their experience with government agencies available in Clark,” Devanadera said. Under the agreement, the government owned and controlled corporation will provide infrastructure support, while the City Government of Mabalacat, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth will collaborate to ensure uninterrupted service provision. This collaborative approach simplifies administrative processes, enables Pag-IBIG to offer housing and financing services, and allows PhilHealth to provide health insurance and related services, all in one location, reducing redundancy and bureaucratic hurdles. The post Gov’t agencies renew one-stop shop partnership appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Digitalization is way to go
Recognizing the transformative potential of technology, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., in his second State of the Nation Address last Monday, set forth a bold vision for the Philippines over the next five years — to accelerate the digitalization of the nation. In an increasingly interconnected and technologically advanced world, the digital revolution, no doubt, has become a catalyst for socioeconomic progress and innovation. Digitalization refers to the process of leveraging technology to transform traditional systems, services, and industries, enabling enhanced efficiency, connectivity, and access to information. By embracing digitalization, the Philippines can unlock new opportunities across various sectors, including healthcare, education, finance, agriculture and governance. The move towards digitalization aims to improve citizen services, foster innovation, attract investments, and promote inclusive growth. A crucial prerequisite for realizing a digitalized Philippines is the establishment of a robust digital infrastructure. Reliable and high-speed Internet connectivity is paramount to empowering businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals to participate in the digital economy. President Marcos Jr.’s administration must prioritize the expansion of broadband networks, particularly in rural and underserved areas, bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal access to opportunities for all citizens. Digitalization requires a skilled and adaptable workforce equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital age. The government must invest in education and training programs that emphasize science, technology, engineering, and mathematics or STEM subjects, as well as digital literacy. This would empower citizens to embrace technology and capitalize on the opportunities it brings, contributing to the growth of the nation’s knowledge-based economy. The President’s vision must extend to nurturing a vibrant ecosystem for digital entrepreneurship and innovation. This involves creating a conducive environment for start-ups, including streamlined regulations, access to funding, and support networks. By fostering innovation, the Philippines can attract both domestic and foreign investments, propelling economic growth and job creation. Digitalization presents an opportunity to enhance governance and public service delivery. E-governance initiatives can streamline bureaucratic processes, reduce corruption, and enhance citizen engagement. Implementing secure and accessible digital platforms for government services can improve the overall efficiency and transparency of public institutions. Healthcare and education are two critical sectors that stand to benefit significantly from digitalization. Telemedicine and e-health initiatives can expand access to healthcare services, particularly in remote areas with limited medical facilities. Likewise, digital education platforms can democratize learning, making quality education more accessible to all Filipinos. Despite the promising prospects, achieving a digitalized Philippines entails navigating various challenges. Cybersecurity is a pressing concern as increased digital reliance can expose the nation to cyber threats and attacks. The government must prioritize the development of robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard critical infrastructure and sensitive information. Moreover, digitalization should not exacerbate existing social and economic disparities. The government must ensure that no one is left behind in this transformative process, especially marginalized communities who may face barriers to accessing digital resources. Data privacy is another crucial consideration. As the country collects and utilizes vast amounts of data, there must be strict regulations in place to protect individuals’ privacy rights and prevent potential misuse of information. As a whole, the President’s vision for a digitalized Philippines over the next five years presents both opportunities and challenges. By focusing on enhancing connectivity, empowering the digital workforce, supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, and embracing digital governance, the Philippines can position itself as a digital leader in the region. Achieving this vision, however, requires strategic planning, collaboration with stakeholders, and a commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. As the country embarks on this journey towards a digitalized future, the vision must be aligned with the welfare and aspirations of all Filipinos, leaving no one behind in the pursuit of progress and prosperity. The post Digitalization is way to go appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go lauds gov’t digitalization initiatives highlighted in PBBM’s 2nd SONA
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go commended President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos' forward-thinking leadership during the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, 24 July, at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City. “I am hopeful na yung kanyang mga binitawang salita, mga pangako, ay maisakatuparan… And ‘yung sinabi po ng ating mahal na Pangulo na kukupkupin ‘yung mga mahihirap, importante po sa atin na walang magutom. Mabigyan ng trabaho po, ‘yun po ang gusto kong marinig kanina at masaya po akong narinig na tulungan po ‘yung mga mahihirap nating kababayan,” Go said in an interview after the SONA. Among other priorities highlighted in the SONA, Marcos particularly outlined a shared vision for a digitally transformed Philippines, emphasizing the pivotal role digitalization plays in supporting data-driven and science-based planning and decision-making in government. The president said embracing digital technologies is not only a means to enhance the country’s ease of doing business but it is also a powerful tool in combating graft and corruption in various forms. “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. Government must fully embrace digitalization to provide better service to the people, through its vital frontline services and its back-end functions,” Marcos said. “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,” he added. Go expressed his support to the President’s vision and said that the transition to digitalization is set to bring about numerous benefits, not only in curbing corruption and ensuring transparency, but in bringing government services closer to the people. In an effort to usher in a new era of modernization and efficiency in governance, Go continues to champion his filed Senate Bill No. 194, otherwise known as the E-Governance Bill. The E-Governance Bill seeks to harness the full potential of digital advancements to streamline bureaucratic processes, enhance transparency, and improve the overall quality of public services. Go said that the measure, if enacted, can make government more accessible to those in need. By digitizing government processes and transactions, Go’s proposed bill introduces an added layer of security and transparency, minimizing opportunities for corrupt practices. Furthermore, the lawmaker added that digital records and paperless transactions can significantly reduce the risk of tampering or unauthorized alterations. “Bureaucratic inefficiency has been one of the most persistent problems in government service for the longest time. People spend so much money, time, and energy just to get a simple document, submit an application for a permit, or simply access public information. Napakahaba po ng proseso, maubos ang oras mo, hindi lang isang oras, isang linggo, o isang buwan,” Go said. “Government should always be responsive to the demands of changing times. It is for this reason that I filed the proposed E-Governance Act. Una ko na po itong nai-file noong panahon pa ng pandemya during the 18th Congress. Marami tayong natutunan noon kung paano mag-adapt sa makabagong panahon,” he explained. In his SONA, the president also called upon all government offices to expedite the digitalization of their vital services. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) responded to this call by launching the DMW Mobile App, which aims to provide Overseas Filipino Workers easy access to the department’s services. It can be recalled that Go was instrumental in the enactment of Republic Act No. 11641, which created the DMW. The Senate version of the Act, Senate Bill No. 2234, was authored and co-sponsored by Go. DMW serves as the lead agency for implementing policies, plans and programs that will ensure the protection, promotion of interests, timely resolution of problems, and effective reintegration of OFWs. Go expressed optimism that the digitalization initiatives can help bridge the gap and ensure more efficient and effective public service delivery. “By embracing the transformative power of technology and fostering a culture of innovation, the nation is set to embark on a progressive path that will shape a brighter future for all Filipinos,” said Go. Meanwhile, the president proudly announced the successful launch of the eGov PH app, a centralized mobile application that integrates all key government services for the convenience of the public. The post Bong Go lauds gov’t digitalization initiatives highlighted in PBBM’s 2nd SONA appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ARTA urged: Sanction non-EODB law compliant agencies — PCCI
A high-ranking official of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry is urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to sharpen the tooth of the Republic Act 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business Law, as more and more agencies continue to be bureaucratic about facilitating permits — the cause of delays in both local and foreign investments “In general, what we want to ask the President is that we’d like to haggle on the Ease of Doing Business. ARTA is doing very well but still, there are lots of agencies that are not on the ball when it comes to following the mandate of the law,” PCCI chairman emeritus Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr said during an interview with the Daily Tribune’s Straight Talk. Signed into law by then-President Rodrigo Duterte, RA 11032 aims to entice entrepreneurs to open up their businesses in the Philippines by expediting business and non-business transactions including the issuance of permits and licenses and holding government officials accountable for graft and corruption. Promotes ease of doing business During the anniversary of the Securities and Exchange Commission in June, Marcos told SEC officials to “use all your successes to further promote ease of doing business and to actively contribute to our overall goal of bringing a comfortable life to our people.” Meanwhile, Ortiz-Luis said in terms of realizing the objective of further improving the economy through export promotion and enticing foreign direct investments, Marcos Jr. should increase the budget of the Department of Trade and Industry. In an earlier interview, Ortiz Luis said the PCCI would like to see a P10-billion budget for DTI in 2024. Magna Carta for MSMEs “We would also like to see the passage of the Magna Carta for MSME. It’s already the third amendment but we cannot appreciate it because the funding still looks like a token for us. We are the most underbanked MSME in Asia,” he said. He said the Magna Carta for MSME is currently being deliberated at the House of Representatives “but we have not seen the needed push that we are looking for, as well as the right budget for it. We seek the President’s prioritization for it.” Notable features for the amendments of the Magna Carta for MSMEs being deliberated at the House of Representatives include limiting of the cost of permits and licenses to P500 per agency for registered microenterprises and P5,000 per agency for registered small enterprises; allocation of 20 percent of all their procurement opportunities for goods and services to eligible MSMEs; and the use of free spaces measuring at least one percent of the total space in government buildings and structures by authorized MSME stores free of charge, among others. Other requests of the PCCI leader to President Marcos Jr. include the passage of the Asin Law and the revitalization of the bamboo industry which he said the Philippines is rich in and could be of use in generating huge revenues for the country through exports. The post ARTA urged: Sanction non-EODB law compliant agencies — PCCI appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Group wants EO on telco permit strictly implemented
A citizen advocacy group has lauded the issuance of an executive order streamlining the bureaucratic process for the establishment of telecommunication and other internet infrastructure, but also urged the government to immediately and strictly implement the EO for the benefit of ordinary consumers nationwide......»»