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Accountability sought in Panay blackout
The provincial government of Iloilo is seeking accountability over the region-wide power outage in Western Visayas that crippled the islands of Panay and Guimaras as well as some areas of Negros after the New Year......»»
Rights group: Duterte’s legacy of violence still present under Marcos
Extrajudicial killings and state-sanctioned violence under the Marcos administration continue to cast shadows on any pretense of accountability and respect for human rights, according to PhilRights executive director Nymia Pimentel-Simbulan.....»»
SMNI suspension urged for alleged violations
Davao City-based legislator and Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Partylist Representative Margarita “Migs” Ignacia B. Nograles has proposed a resolution urging the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to suspend the operations of Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI). The resolution alleges that SMNI has violated the terms of its franchise and disseminated false information, failing in its responsibility to the public. This move is in response to multiple complaints filed against SMNI, including accusations of fake news peddling and baseless red-tagging of individuals, groups, and organizations. Specific incidents cited in the resolution include attacks on ACT Teachers Partylist Representative France L. Castro and false claims about House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez's foreign travel expenses. SMNI's host, Jeffrey “Ka Eric” Celiz, admitted to providing inaccurate information on air, further fueling the allegations against the network. Pending the Committee on Legislative Franchises' recommendations on SMNI's alleged violations, Nograles emphasized the urgency for the NTC to halt the deliberate dissemination of false information that may erode public trust. The 25-year franchise of SMNI was renewed in 2019, and the network has not yet issued an official statement regarding the resolution. In a related development, the House of Representatives Committee on Legislative Franchises cited Celiz and former National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) spokesperson Lorraine Badoy-Partosa in contempt for refusing to disclose their source of erroneous information and being evasive about their income from co-producing their show. Both anchors will be detained at the House premises until the committee's report is adopted in the plenary. This story highlights the growing scrutiny on SMNI's operations and the calls for accountability amid allegations of spreading false information......»»
Philippines urged to push for fossil fuel phaseout, climate justice at COP28
As COP28 opens in Dubai Thursday, climate and energy groups are hopeful that the Philippines will lend its voice to the calls for an equitable and swift transition from fossil fuels to renewables, and corporate accountability for climate impacts. .....»»
Accountability in road safety and biker recognition
The disturbing dashcam footage capturing the deliberate collision between an orange Suzuki Wagon and an Angkas biker with a passenger on the bustling streets of EDSA in Mandaluyong City serves as a stark reminder of the perils of road rage......»»
Lacson emphasizes accountability to employees
Lacson emphasizes accountability to employees.....»»
Accountability, international law and the free world
The Hamas terror organization must be held accountable for the atrocities it has committed, as well as for the ongoing war and the toll it has taken on Israelis and Palestinians alike......»»
Yemen: Prioritize Protection of Children
(Beirut) - Parties to the conflict in Yemen, the UN, and the international community should prioritize the protection of children in the ongoing peace talks to ensure justice and accountability, 43 organizations, including Human Rights Watch, said today, on International Children's Day.Human Rights Watch is one of 43 human rights organizations that.....»»
Villar: DTI strengthens Internet Transaction Act
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is strengthening the Internet Transaction Act (ITA) in the Philippines to support consumers and merchants engaged in online transactions. Senator Mark Villar, the sponsor of the bill, announced that the DTI will monitor transactions and enforce regulations to reduce fraudulent websites. The ITA was approved by the Senate earlier this year and is ready for implementation. It aims to address challenges in e-commerce, such as cash-based payments, accountability of platforms, logistics issues, and public perception of insecurity. The bill also provides legal protection for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and holds digital platforms accountable for any harm caused to consumers. The ITA is one of the top 20 priority bills of President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos' administration......»»
Philippines to China: Be accountable, remove illegal structures
The Department of Foreign Affairs urged Beijing to dismantle its infrastructures, halt all reclamations, and take full accountability for the damages caused in the West Philippine Sea......»»
Northern Luzon humanitarians unite for government accountability for continuous judicial harassment and HRVs
A delegation of activists and human rights defenders from the Cordillera, Cagayan Valley, and Ilocos regions rallied to the National Capital Region from March 20-21, 2023......»»
Dev’t, capacitybuilding for cities
An attractive proposition and a necessary goal to further improve the state of the Philippines is to accelerate and sustain inclusive growth in the country. But what exactly needs improvement? How can this be achieved? What does it entail? How will it benefit the Philippines? Metro Manila is already developed and, in my opinion, not the priority in making more improvements. The cities outside Metro Manila are, however, a different story altogether. The economic competitiveness and resilience of said cities require much improvement. The development of these cities as engines of growth that are inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and strong is the foundation with which to realize these improvements. Specific areas may need financial inputs, and technical support varies from city to city. Examples of sectors to focus on are energy, environment, governance, health, local economy, small to medium entrepreneurship, taxation, technology and education. The enumeration is not exclusive and may be expanded. Generally, the growth trajectories of nations are closely linked to their urban environment, where cities act as propulsions of growth and lay the groundwork for their foundation. At first glance, it may seem like a tall order, but with proper planning, preparation, and stakeholder cooperation, it becomes achievable. If urban growth is well planned, cities can accelerate regional economic growth, innovation, and the end goal of prosperity for all. Circling back to my initial point on why cities outside Metro Manila are important to focus on for development, these smaller cities have a relatively high urban population concentration and hold the most growth potential. Although varying in size and level of development, they are equally important in ensuring the country’s success. To achieve this would require the cooperation and participation of various sectors and stakeholders. Government agencies, various leagues of local government units, civil society groups, non-government organizations, and the private sector, which may include corporations, business chambers, and trade associations, must all be involved. Implementing this undertaking will be an opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of the “whole-of-nation” approach. Government agencies that top the list of entities expected to shore up this collective effort include the Department of the Interior and Local Government, National Economic and Development Authority, Anti-Red Tape Authority, Department of Finance, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Health, and Department of Education. The participation of the Philippine National Police is also crucial, as business can thrive only in an atmosphere of peace and security. The benefits of capacity building for cities are many. Initially, the more apparent recipients are the affected cities themselves and their inhabitants. However, increased capability will lead to a more efficient and equitable distribution of resources and delivery of services to the specific sectors we have mentioned. This will support decentralization and public financial management by helping cities widen their own-source revenue bases. It also helps cities enhance tax collection efficiency, access debt capital markets, and strengthen their public financial systems to create a more equitable fiscal framework geared towards inclusive growth. Decentralization also improves governance, with cities becoming more accountable and transparent to their constituencies. With accountability and transparency, the city becomes an attractive destination for investments. Local entrepreneurs will be one of many who will seize upon these attractions, but foreign investors as well. The different benefits and positive impact foreign direct investments provide a country deserve another article in the future. For now, let us all call on our government and the private sector to join hands in developing and building capacity for all cities in the Philippines. Let us contribute to moving our country forward and taking it to new heights. The post Dev’t, capacitybuilding for cities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Accountability vs responsibility
EJ Obiena, the world’s second best pole vaulter and Asian Games gold medalist, is truly changing Philippine pole vault history and has become in many ways a genuine inspiration for our youth, not only in the field of sports but also in elevating the minds of our young people by helping them become true accountable citizens of our nation......»»
Starting ‘em young
Three days from now, Filipinos will troop to the polling precincts once again to elect their Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials in what is supposed to be an integral component of the country’s democratic system. The elections, postponed many times before, allow for the representation and participation of local communities and the youth. However, these elections have not been without controversy, with allegations of vote buying and the distribution of illegal campaign materials tarnishing the democratic process. Held every three years, the Barangay and SK Elections, also known as BSKE, play a critical role in the Philippine political landscape. Barangays are the smallest administrative units in the country, serving as the frontline of government service delivery. The SK, on the other hand, specifically represents the youth, offering them an opportunity to engage in the political process from a young age. Barangay elections ensure that the grassroots communities are represented in local governance. Residents can choose leaders directly responsible for addressing their immediate concerns, such as public safety, health, and education. SK elections aim to involve the youth in decision-making processes. By participating in these elections, young people can gain valuable experience in leadership, advocacy, and community service, setting the stage for their future involvement in national politics. These elections serve as a training ground for democracy, allowing citizens to exercise their right to vote and make informed choices. The principles of accountability, transparency, and participation are nurtured at the community level. Barangay elections can be particularly empowering for marginalized groups, including women and indigenous communities, who have the opportunity to run for office and make their voices heard. However, despite the importance of the BSKE, they have been marred by allegations of vote buying and the distribution of illegal campaign materials. These practices raise concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and whether they indicate an early introduction to corrupt political practices. Vote buying, whereby candidates offer money, goods, or services in exchange for votes, is a long-standing issue in Philippine politics. While it is not exclusive to Barangay and SK elections, the fact that such allegations surface even in these local-level contests is troubling. It begs the question of whether young people are witnessing and, to some extent, participating in a system that normalizes the exchange of votes for material gain. One possible explanation for the prevalence of vote buying is the socio-economic conditions in many barangays. Poverty and inequality can create an environment where voters may be more susceptible to monetary incentives. This underscores the need for broader efforts to alleviate poverty and promote education and awareness about the value of their vote. Another issue is the widespread use of illegal campaign materials, such as posters, banners, and pamphlets that do not conform to electoral regulations. While this may seem like a relatively minor infraction, it contributes to a culture of disregard for the rule of law and electoral integrity. Starting young in politics should ideally involve nurturing values of ethics and civic responsibility. Instead, when young people are exposed to campaigns that flout the rules, it may inadvertently teach them that bending or breaking rules is an acceptable strategy to achieve political goals. This sends a damaging message about the importance of playing by the rules in a democracy. Addressing the issues of vote buying and illegal campaign materials in barangay and SK elections is crucial to preserving the democratic process and instilling positive values in young people. Schools and community organizations should conduct programs to educate young people about the significance of their vote, ethical campaigning, and the consequences of vote buying. Such programs can help instill a sense of civic responsibility. The Commission on Elections, on the other hand, should vigorously enforce campaign finance and election laws, penalizing candidates who engage in illegal practices. It is crucial, therefore, to address these issues by emphasizing education, enforcement of election laws, transparency, and community involvement. In doing so, these elections can better serve as platforms for shaping the future leaders of the nation who are committed to the principles of democracy, integrity, and ethical governance. The post Starting ‘em young appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM wants agenda to address global challenges as he signs UNSDCF
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for a "transformative agenda" to address global challenges and bridge divides as he signed a new United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework on Tuesday. The UNSDCF is a five-year plan to guide the UN's development activities in the Philippines from 2024 to 2028. It is aligned with the Philippine government's eight-point socio-economic agenda, the Philippine Development Plan, and Ambisyon Natin. In his speech at the signing ceremony in Malacañan, Marcos said that the UNSDCF is "oriented to support Philippine government policies and priorities embodied in the eight-point socio-economic agenda, the Philippine development plan, and Ambisyon Natin." He added that the UNSDCF "enjoins us and agencies in the government's determined pursuit of the highest aspirations of our people." Marcos said that the Philippines looks forward to "vigorous engagements and key issues that bear on the future of our communities, including food security, education, climate action, decent work, digital transformation, and disaster risk reduction." He also invited new approaches to help promote innovation driven by climate-smart and sustainable growth at all levels. Marcos said that the Philippines is also fostering access to green financing, lasting peace, and better public services across the archipelago. "With the UN delivering as one fully cognizant of the Philippine needs and context and the voices of its partners including civil society, our partnership can be a catalyst for the accomplishment of our shared goals in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," he said. Marcos also noted that the UNSDCF is among the first of its kind under the reformed UN development system. "Our collaboration will showcase the best and finest the UN development system can offer the world with programs that provide solutions and a far-reaching impact and provide good models of co-ownership, transparency, and accountability," he said. Marcos said that the UNSDCF brings with it not only the legacies of the Philippines' constructive and long-standing engagement with the UN, but also signifies the country's role in shaping more inclusive and effective multilateral institutions that embrace and bring tangible results to all. He added that the UNSDCF also acknowledges how the Philippines' best practices and experience can help the achievement of the SDG agenda elsewhere through South-South cooperation platforms. Marcos said that the UN recognizes that peacebuilding milestones in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao offer valuable insight for peacemaking across the world. He added that the Philippines' advocacies in the Indo-Pacific and in the global arena for the rule of law and a peaceful settlement of disputes also provide opportunities for a more substantive engagement with the UN. "These noble aspects of the UNSDCF show how our partnership has evolved. It is now infused with a more mature-looking synergy of efforts serving the interests of both the Philippines and the United Nations as we work for a safer and more prosperous world," Marcos said. He added that it is "truly fitting that we embark on this new journey together as we celebrate the founding of the UN 78 years ago." "This daunting and profound enterprise of making our collaboration deliver meaningful change and transformation on the ground lies before us," Marcos said. "I look forward to hearing many more success stories in the Philippines-UN partnership under this cooperation framework," Marcos added......»»
Phl Army personnel reaffirms allegiance to AFP Code of Conduct
Members of the Philippine Army on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to adhere to the highest standard of public service under the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ code of conduct. Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the officers, enlisted personnel, and reservists, recited the Oath of Allegiance during the 33rd AFP Code of Conduct Day celebration held at Headquarters Philippine Army in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. “The AFP Code of Conduct Day is one of the ways the AFP continuously reminds soldiers of the firm respect for the law and its legal processes. It further reiterates the utmost degree of fidelity and good faith in public service,” said Trinidad. Army Commanding General, LtGen. Roy Galido reminded the soldiers to become role models in demonstrating discipline at all times. “We must fully embrace, embody, uphold, and pledge ourselves to maintain a character grounded in our core values. In this endeavor, let integrity and accountability stand as a foundation of our character," said Galido. The post Phl Army personnel reaffirms allegiance to AFP Code of Conduct appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Army reaffirms respect for law
Members of the Philippine Army on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to adhere to the highest standards of public service under the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ code of conduct. Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the officers, enlisted personnel, and reservists recited the Oath of Allegiance during the 33rd AFP Code of Conduct Day celebration held at the Philippine Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. “The Code of Conduct Day is one of the ways the AFP continuously reminds soldiers to have a firm respect for the law and the legal processes. It further reiterates the utmost degree of fidelity and good faith in public service,” Trinidad said. Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido reminded the soldiers to be role models and demonstrate discipline at all times. “We must fully embrace, embody, uphold, and pledge ourselves to maintain a character grounded in our core values. In this endeavor, let integrity and accountability stand as the foundation of our character,” Galido said. The post Army reaffirms respect for law appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Maintain probity, Gesmundo tells magistrates
In celebration of the Judicial Integrity Board’s third founding anniversary at the Court of Appeals auditorium, the Supreme Court recognized the board’s indispensable role in the pursuit of transparent and accountable justice. Associate Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez, addressing the gathering, heralded the JIB’s pivotal function, emphasizing that the judiciary “must uphold transparency and accountability to inspire public confidence and trust.” Chief Justice Gesmundo, through Justice Marquez, conveyed the significance of the JIB’s creation as the institution responsible for ensuring that judicial officers and court employees perform their duties in strict accordance with established codes of conduct. Gesmundo underscored that “judicial accountability is vital to the preservation of the rule of law and the effectiveness of the justice system.” He stressed that justices and judges must uphold the four standards mandated by the Constitution: Integrity, competence, probity and independence. These standards, he noted, apply universally to all judiciary officials and employees, regardless of rank, salary grade, educational attainment, or gender. The post Maintain probity, Gesmundo tells magistrates appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos Jr. suspends Maharlika Fund implementation
President Marcos yesterday suspended the implementation of the sovereign wealth fund or Maharlika Investment Fund to further study its implementing rules and regulations and ensure that safeguards are in place “for transparency and accountability.”.....»»
Bulatlat trains journos in human rights reporting
Bulatlat’s training is part of its project titled, "Advancing Human rights Reporting in the Philippines as a Tool for Upholding Gender Fairness, Democracy and Accountability" through its publisher Alipato Media Center. The six-month project is being supported by the German Embassy Manila. The post Bulatlat trains journos in human rights reporting appeared first on Bulatlat......»»