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Restricting minors’ access to vape pushed
MANILA, Philippines — Health Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa on Tuesday called for stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent minors from accessing tobacco products, especially vape. Herbosa cited that while minors are not legally allowed to purchase such products, many of them can still be seen using them. “Technically, by law, 18 years old and above.....»»
How nations allow or restrict legal gender change
A small number of countries have made it easier for transgender people to change their legal gender, while other nations have restricted such changes, notably Russia and Pakistan. Here is a snapshot of the situation around the world. Exception, not the rule According to the International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA), 24 UN member states have legally allowed people to change their gender on the basis of self-identification. In about 40 other countries, the legal and administrative process can take years and may include requirements such as psychiatric diagnosis, hormone treatment, gender confirmation surgery, or even sterilization. Making it easier Argentina has led the way on transgender rights, allowing a change of gender on national ID cards with a simple declaration since 2012. Several Latin American countries have followed suit. Denmark was the first European country in 2014 to allow adults to apply for a gender change without undergoing medical or psychological assessments, with Belgium, Ireland, Malta, Norway, Portugal, and most recently Spain following suit. Since 2017, France has allowed transgender people to change their status on their ID documents without treatment, surgery, or sterilization but they must receive court approval. The issue of trans rights sparked a fierce row in 2022 in Scotland, where parliament passed a bill making it easier for people to self-identify their gender that was sensationally vetoed by London. The German cabinet in August 2023 signed off plans under which Germans will be able to change their name or legal gender by making a simple application to their local registry office. The law still has to go to parliament. Hesitating Sweden, one of the world's most liberal countries, was the first in the world to authorize physical and legal gender reassignment for adults in 1972. But last year it began restricting hormone therapy available for children diagnosed with gender dysphoria, such as puberty blockers, citing the need for caution following a strong increase in demand. It also restricted access to mastectomies for teenage girls wanting to transition. Finland in 2020 had already restricted hormone treatment for minors. Making it harder Russia adopted new legislation in July 2023 banning "medical interventions aimed at changing the sex of a person" and "the state registration of a change of gender without an operation". President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly railed against transgender rights in his speeches. Pakistan's religious judiciary ruled in May that landmark transgender legal protections from 2018 are un-Islamic and therefore void. An appeal is being sought with the Supreme Court. Pakistan continues to recognize the existence of a third gender, neither masculine nor feminine, as do India and Nepal. Restricting gender-affirming treatment, such as puberty blockers for minors, has become a major campaign of US conservatives. Arkansas in 2021 became the first US state to ban physicians and health workers from offering transition-related treatment to transgender minors. A federal judge in June overturned the ban. Around 20 states, including Florida and Texas, have passed similar laws. Anti-LGBTQ sentiment in Hungary has escalated during the rule of Viktor Orban's right-wing government. In May 2020, the country passed a law making it impossible for transgender people to change their name and gender on their ID documents. The post How nations allow or restrict legal gender change appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
QC gov’t to help strengthen BPO community
A leading U.S.-based business process outsourcing (BPO) company - Afni unveiled a new floor at its Fairview office over the weekend, as it scales operations in the Philippines. A ceremonial function was held on-site and attended by Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, who reiterated her support for further developing the BPO industry in the city. “The city’s economy continues to grow thanks to the close partnerships we have with local businesses. Our commitment to developing the local BPO scene remains through the city government’s various efforts, including improved ease of doing business. BPOs are a key player in the city’s social development strategy through employment generation for Quezon City residents,” Belmonte, who joined Afni executives in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at SMT4. The Quezon City Government welcomed the growth and expansion of the BPO industry in the city as it provides thousands of job opportunities for QCitizens. It has also supported the training and seminars of Quezon City residents such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and new graduates. “Afni has more than 8,000 employees in the Philippines, most of whom are in Quezon City. The company’s goal is to generate more jobs that are close to people’s homes—in view of our commitment to investing especially in Quezon City and the country’s economy. Afni is celebrating ten years in Quezon City, and this is with much thanks to Mayor Joy Belmonte, whose support for BPOs allowed Afni to invest more in our operations in the city," Khalid Khursheed, Afni Vice President for Operations and Philippine Country Manager. Afni’s site at SM City Fairview Tower 4 (SMT4) is the company’s second site in Quezon City while its Philippine headquarters is located along Commonwealth Avenue. Afni started operations in Fairview in 2020 and opened its current SMT4 office two years later as the company celebrated its tenth anniversary in the country. Scaling operations in the Philippines comes after steady demand from its clients for customer engagement support services. The expanded SMT4 site covers over 100,000 square feet across five floors and currently houses more than 4,000 employees. The new floor will allow a thousand more future employees to be accommodated in the building. The office is designed with employee wellness in mind with dedicated game rooms, arcade areas, and an open-air common area—all these on top of direct access to the mall’s amenities. “Solidifying and expanding the business in the Philippines is part of the company’s growth strategy as we support our clients and employees. Afni considers the Philippines, given Filipinos’ commendable work ethic, as the company’s stronghold for sustainable growth in the global BPO landscape,” Khursheed said. With a history of over 80 years, Afni partners with some of the world’s leading names in insurance, financial services, telecommunications, healthcare, fitness, and media. Over 10,000 Afni employees globally support new and existing clients across the full customer lifecycle. From the U.S., Afni established its Philippine presence in 2012. Its flagship site in the country is along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City. The company added a site in Fairview in 2020 and another will be opening in Santa Rosa, Laguna, in 2024. In 2023, Afni ventured into Mexico, opening a site in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon. The post QC gov’t to help strengthen BPO community appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Heroes Lounge sans real lionhearts
Once upon a time, in a small town, there lived a retired soldier named Leo who devoted his life to his country, valiantly defending its citizens. He fought in countless battles, demonstrated unparalleled courage and earned the utmost respect of his fellow soldiers. Following years of dedicated service, he eventually retired and returned to his hometown, longing for a peaceful life among the people he had fiercely safeguarded. Regrettably, he discovered that the reality fell significantly short of his expectations. The residents of the town, preoccupied with their own lives and concerns, appeared to have disregarded the sacrifices made by soldiers like him. He was ignored and overlooked; his presence was almost invisible to those around him. He was perplexed at how he transitioned from being a revered hero to an unnoticed figure within his community. Leo’s experience is not unique. Numerous other soldiers, such as retired Marine Colonel Ariel Querubin, can empathize. In a Facebook post on 23 September, the 67-year-old decorated military veteran expressed his disappointment over being denied access, along with other retired generals, to a private lounge at the Tuguegarao airport because it was already occupied. “After a very fruitful trip to Isabela and Tuguegarao the past few days, I was very disappointed to find that myself and a handful of retired generals were not allowed to use the Heroes Lounge at the Tuguegarao Airport because it was reserved for these Chinese-looking individuals,” Querubin’s post read. “Are the Chinese the new heroes in this country? Definitely NOT!” To this day, Tuguegarao Airport manager Mary Sulyn Sogorsor has yet to issue a statement on the degrading incident. Is Manager Sogorsor unaware that real heroes were denied entry to the Heroes Lounge? Does she even acknowledge that Colonel Querubin, a recipient of the Medal of Valor, the highest honor bestowed upon a Filipino, was among them? Colonel Querubin played a crucial role in capturing the MILF’s strategic staging area, Camp Mack in Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte, in the early 2000s. Has she forgotten the services and sacrifices of the retired generals, who put themselves in immense danger for decades? Querubin, who is no stranger to brushes with death and sustained 67 battle wounds during his more than 30 years in the military service, lamented: “If they can do it to senior officers, what more to the others?” Retired soldier heroes do not deserve the indifference. Being preoccupied with their own lives is never an excuse not to acknowledge their struggles, sacrifices, and contributions. They may have proven that a hero’s spirit can prevail despite the apathy, but they should never become a symbol of forgotten heroes they who had dedicated their lives to selflessly protecting the nation. Otherwise, it is heartbreaking. The post Heroes Lounge sans real lionhearts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Alleged cult leader Senior Agila ‘can stop rain, make birds sing’
Testifying at the Senate hearing over the alleged human rights violations and "cult" practices of Socorro Bayanihan Services Incorporated, Riza Guma narrated how she became a die-hard member due to "supposed powers” of the group’s leader, Jey Rence “Senior Agila” Quilario, to stop rain and voice changing ability. Guma, a former educator, admitted that she previously left her teaching profession to serve full-time as a member of the Kapihan community, in Soccorro town, Surigao del Norte. In her affidavit which was read by Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa during the hearing, Guma claimed that Quilario “was able to change and contort his voice into different persons.” “Yung cousin ko ay nagkasakit siya at dinala sa hospital at biglang dumating din si si Jey Rence Quilario. Pag dating niya sa ospital ay pabago-bago ang boses niya,” Guma said. She shared that Quilario can shift his voice into an old woman, a Godzilla, and an old man. Dela Rosa then asked Quilario if he could really change his voice as alleged by Guma. “Hindi po Iyan totoo,” Quilario told Dela Rosa. The senator continued reading Guma’s affidavit. “Let the bird sing and unexpectedly, the bird sang.” “Yes po sir. May boses po ng ibon na biglang tumunog,” Guma said. “There was a time that it was raining hard and Senior Agila shouted: Let the rain stop! And indeed the heavy stop. Since then, we really became die-hard believers because of those supposed powers,” she added. Dela Rosa asked: “Huminto talaga yung ulan?” Guma laughed it off and said. “Baka aksidente lang din po iyon.” The senator continued asking, “Why did you become a diehard member?” “Noon po iyon Sir. Noong sobrang diehard ako, kaya nga tumigil po ako sa pagtuturo,” she replied. On the other hand, Senator Risa Hontiveros lambasted the group for depriving children of to access the right to education. Despite being a teacher, Guma disclosed that even her own child was not allowed to study not until he left the community in June 2022. Hontiveros asked Guma about her assessment of children still residing in Sitio Kapihan. “Yung ibang bata po na nakapag-aral before pumunta doon sa bukid ay marunong silang magsulat at makabasa pero yung mga bata from age 5, hindi po sila marunong magsulat at magbasa,” Guma told Hontiveros. At least 200 minors don’t know how to write and read, she confirmed. “Dati kayong teacher. Papaanong napapayag kayo na hindi makapag-ara ang sarili ninyong anak?,” Hontiveros asked. Guma replied, “dahil ipinagbabawal na po ni Senior Agila ‘yung pag-aaral.” She added that who will disobey Quilario's orders would be heavily punished. According to Hontiveros, SBSI Vice President Mamerto Galanida said the group is eyeing to build a school inside the community. Guma brushed off the idea. “Ngayon lang din po sila nagplano na magtayo ng school noong pumutok na po yung kaso mam.” She claimed that the plan would serve as a cover-up from calling the SBSI a “cult.” The post Alleged cult leader Senior Agila ‘can stop rain, make birds sing’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
US, Iran release prisoners in $6 billion swap deal
The United States and Iran on Monday swapped five prisoners each in one of the arch-foes' first deals in years as Tehran gained access to $6 billion in frozen funds. The five Americans freed by Iran, including one held for eight years, flew out of Tehran in a Qatari jet, hours after the unblocked funds were deposited in accounts also managed by Qatar. The White House said it was "pleased to confirm" the plane carrying the freed Americans had left Doha, Qatar for the United States, and that President Joe Biden had spoken with the families of the Americans in an "emotional call". The five had walked in the setting sun on the tarmac in Doha, three of them with arms around one another's shoulders. One of them praised Biden for ignoring the political backlash and taking the "incredibly difficult decisions" that freed them. "Thank you, President Biden, for ultimately putting the lives of American citizens above politics," Siamak Namazi, a businessman held since 2015, said in a statement. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who spoke to the released Americans by telephone after they landed in Doha, insisted the Biden administration had "no higher priority" than freeing US citizens. "It's very good to be able to say that our fellow citizens are free," Blinken told reporters in New York, where he and Biden are taking part in UN meetings. Two of the Iranian detainees arrived in Qatar, Iranian media said. The other three released by the United States have opted to remain there or in a third country. After quiet discussions led in part by Qatar, the two countries completed the exchange after the transfer of $6 billion in funds, frozen by US ally South Korea. The Biden administration has rejected criticism at home that it is paying "ransom," insisting the money will be used only humanitarian purposes, with a threat to re-freeze the funds if not. But Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani, speaking earlier in Tehran, said the clerical state will have "total access" to the assets. Political risks for Biden Biden's Republican rivals have roundly denounced the deal. Republican Senator Mitt Romney said it would lead to "kidnappings". "The idea of basically paying to release, in this effect, a hostage is a terrible idea," he said. Mindful of political risks, Biden in a statement said he would "continue to impose costs" on Iran and announced sanctions against former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the country's intelligence ministry. The sanctions were imposed over alleged deceit in the disappearance of Bob Levinson, a former FBI agent who disappeared in Iran in mysterious circumstance and is presumed dead. Biden in his statement did not mention that he granted clemency to five Iranians. A US official said that all were convicted or changed with non-violent crimes, with one already set to be released soon. Iran had generated the revenue through oil sales. South Korea froze the funds after Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump withdrew from a landmark nuclear accord and imposed unilateral US sanctions on buying oil from Iran. Iran's central bank governor said Iran would seek damages from South Korea. "We're making a complaint on behalf of Iran against South Korea for not giving access to these funds and the reduction in value of these funds in order to receive damages," Mohammadreza Farzin said on state television. The five Americans of Iranian descent -- all considered Iranian nationals by Tehran, which rejects dual nationality -- were released to house arrest when the deal was agreed last month. Besides Namazi, they include wildlife conservationist Morad Tahbaz, venture capitalist Emad Sharqi and two others who wished to remain anonymous. All were accused of spying or other crimes that they strongly reject. Tahbaz also holds UK nationality. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said Britain was not involved in the deal but that he was "extremely pleased" he was free. A US official said that two more US citizens flew out of Tehran -- Namazi's mother and Sharqi's wife, who were not in prison but had ont been allowed to leave. According to Tehran, the freed Iranians include Reza Sarhangpour and Kambiz Attar Kashani, both accused of violating US sanctions against Tehran. A third prisoner, Kaveh Lotfolah Afrasiabi, was detained at his home near Boston in 2021 and charged with being an Iranian government agent, according to US officials. The two others, Mehrdad Moein Ansari and Amin Hasanzadeh, were said to have links to Iranian security forces. Nudge on nuclear? The swap was the first deal sealed by Biden with Iran's clerical rulers, who toppled the pro-Western shah in 1979 and are deeply hostile to the United States. Biden took office with hopes of restoring the 2015 nuclear agreement, under which Iran promised to constrain its contested nuclear work in return for sanctions relief. But months of talks failed to produce a breakthrough. Prospects to restore the deal sank further after protests broke out almost exactly a year ago in Iran following the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating the country's Islamic dress code for women. Blinken said that the release of the prisoners "doesn't speak to anything else in the relationship," with the nuclear issue "a different track." Biden is not expected to meet in New York with Iran's president, Ebrahim Raisi, who arrived Monday. The post US, Iran release prisoners in $6 billion swap deal appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sovereign shame
The government should recognize the possibility that Chinese workers in the country are committing espionage amid the escalating territorial friction in the West Philippine Sea. Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro raised the alarm, saying employees of mainly Chinese state firms may be engaged in potential “covert economic and information activities,” including propaganda operations, to sway public opinion in favor of the mainland. Among the workers on the watchlist are “the ones hired by Beijing’s state-run enterprises involved in public infrastructure projects,” according to Teodoro. The Department of National Defense said it is looking into clandestine dealings “happening in the background.” “It’s the activities that we cannot see… that’s what alarms us,” the defense chief said. “The best way to weaken a country, rather than by an overt warlike function or disruption of [its] facilities, is really to take control of [its] internal economy, internal processes, and the like,” Teodoro pointed out. The records of Chinese migrants in the country are inadequate based on previous Senate hearings. No government agency was able to provide the Senate, for instance, with an accurate number of illegal Chinese workers, indicating that they are not being monitored. Labor agencies have also failed to keep track of how many foreign workers are in jobs that, by mandate of the Constitution, should be for Filipinos only. Under the law, foreigners are only allowed to work in jobs that require highly specialized skills and where no Filipinos are deemed competent to do them. During the Senate probe, it was also discovered that as many as 119,000 Chinese nationals who came to the country as tourists are now residents and have jobs in violation of labor regulations. Chinese tourists, through some “gainful” means, were able to obtain special work permits from the Bureau of Immigration. They now work in very diverse areas such as Metro Manila, Clark, Subic, Cagayan and Cagayan de Oro. In one of the inquiries, a Department of Labor and Employment official explained that the special permits were issued without the need for an Alien Employment Permit, or AEP, because the nature of the employment was temporary, lasting from three to six months. The loose process, thus, has allowed foreign workers to enter the country practically unbridled. Senators questioned the discrepancy between the AEPs issued and the number of Chinese workers in the country. Independent sources said that as many as 200,000 to 400,000 Chinese workers are in the country. Four different agencies issue different permits that make the situation worse. The biggest insult by China is that its propaganda work against the Philippines and other opponents in the territorial conflicts is done in this country. Facebook recently removed two networks of fake accounts that were spreading government propaganda, one originating in China and the other in the Philippines. Taken down were 155 Facebook accounts, 11 pages, nine groups and seven Instagram accounts traced to China, and 57 accounts, 31 pages and 20 Instagram accounts based in the Philippines. Such operations breach Facebook’s rules against “coordinated inauthentic behavior on behalf of a foreign or government entity.” The Chinese network used faces created through an AI technique known as GANs (Generative Adversarial Networks). Facebook was able to trace the origins of the accounts because of their visual signatures. “This form of AI is readily available online, and its use (or abuse) by covert operations has exploded in the last year,” according to a report on the social media platform. Identified were a dozen GAN-generated images from the Chinese propaganda operation. Teodoro, who has access to a wealth of information, in revealing the supposed operations being conducted by the Chinese in the country’s backyard, virtually confirmed the problem has reached alarming proportions. It would be easy for the government to keep track of foreign workers if only the appropriate agencies would resist the seduction of human smuggling. In accepting bribes to let the aliens skirt the law, these officials and functionaries have placed our national security at risk. The post Sovereign shame appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
What’s in a dash?
China last week released a new map that expanded its original 9-dash line territorial claim in the South China Sea with the addition of a 10th dash east of Taiwan. That move by Beijing drew strong condemnation from the Philippines, Malaysia and India, and a statement of concern from the United States. Other nations, especially those with overlapping claims in the South China Sea, can be expected to also vigorously oppose Beijing’s new map which was built on the original claim it first floated in the 1940s. While the Philippines resoundingly won its case against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague with a final ruling in 2016, Beijing has refused to be bound by it and now mocks the same with a 10-dash line map. Just to recap, the arbitral court recognized the Philippines’ maritime entitlement in the West Philippine Sea, which overlaps with the South China Sea. At the same time, it declared China’s sovereign claim over nearly the entire SCS legally and historically baseless. The addition of the 10th dash east of Taiwan is troubling because it may be used by Beijing to lay claim to the Pratas Islands, which are claimed not only by Taiwan but also by Vietnam. Located in the northern part of the South China Sea, the Pratas Islands are strategically important because from there one may control access to the Taiwan Strait. Geopolitical experts are warning that China’s new map may be preparatory to Beijing building military bases in the Pratas as it has done in the Mischief, Gaven, Hughes and Cuarteron reefs, just to name a few. Beijing’s control of passage in and out of the Taiwan Strait is simply inconceivable and unacceptable. Without a doubt, the Taiwan Strait is a vital commercial waterway that connects the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea, one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world, with an estimated half a million ships passing through it each year. The strait is critical for trade between China, Japan, South Korea, and the US. It is also a major oil and gas shipping route from the Middle East to East Asia. The numbers should give us an idea why China’s 10th dash is being pilloried by nations as inconsistent with international law that guarantees the freedom of navigation. An estimate had put the value of goods transported through the Taiwan Strait at $1.5 trillion in 2022, making it the world’s third busiest strait, after the Strait of Hormuz and the Malacca Strait. China, of course, claims Taiwan as its territory and, in fact, its President, Xi Jinping, has vowed to retake it by force if it comes to that. China has claimed the strait as its internal waters, but the US does not recognize that claim. One possibility looms large on the horizon: That China will use the 10-dash line claim to justify its continued militarization of the South China Sea, leading to heightened tension between it and the rest of the world that fears unwarranted control by Beijing of the Taiwan Strait. It has to be emphasized that both the 9-dash line and 10-dash line claims of China have not been recognized by international law. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, or UNCLOS, which is the main international treaty governing the use of the oceans, does not recognize any country’s right to claim territorial waters beyond its 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone. As China has yet to formally adopt the 10-dash line, however, there’s a need to review how the arbitral court had ruled in favor of the Philippines in 2016 based on three main findings: First, China has not historically exercised exclusive control over the waters within the nine-dash line; second, the line cannot be considered a valid maritime boundary; and third, China’s actions in the South China Sea, including its land reclamation activities, have violated the Philippines’ sovereign rights and its exclusive economic zone. While Beijing may choose to ignore the arbitral ruling, it is nonetheless a strong legal opinion on the matter that could embolden other countries to challenge China’s overreach into their respective territories. China’s actions in the South China Sea are a reminder of its growing assertiveness in the region. Beijing has been steadily militarizing its claims in the South China Sea, and it has also been using its economic power to pressure other countries into accepting its claims. The world must stand firm against China’s aggression and make it clear that nations will not tolerate Beijing’s attempts to bully its neighbors or violate international law. The stakes are high in the South China Sea. The region is home to some of the world’s most important shipping lanes, and it is also rich in natural resources. China cannot be allowed to have its way and put the region in a stranglehold. The post What’s in a dash? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Let there be light: Davao de Oro rice mill gets energized
A rural farming cooperative in the town of Laak in Davao de Oro has ramped up its livelihood operations following the energization assistance provided by the One Meralco Foundation, resulting in better income opportunities for members of the local community. [caption id="attachment_179231" align="aligncenter" width="1170"] Members of the Laak Multipurpose Cooperative in Laak, Davao de Oro prepare to mill rice grains or palay following the electrification assistance of the One Meralco Foundation.[/caption] The project involves the installation of a 5.1-kilowatt peak solar photovoltaic system for the rice milling facility of the Laak Multipurpose Cooperative, whose operations have long been hampered by the lack of reliable power supply. With the new solar facility, the cooperative has increased its production by over threefold to over 100 sacks of milled rice daily from around 30 sacks per day previously. The boost in rice mill production also provides additional capital for farmers to sustain their crops throughout the planting season. LAMPCO general manager Edesa Morante said the energization assistance provided by OMF also allowed the cooperative to cater to more community members. “While power is a basic need, the impact it generates to our organization and the community magnifies how power in its basic form can change lives and make it better. We are now moving forward as a multipurpose cooperative and along with us are the many households that depend on our services. The benefits we gained from the energization will ripple to our members and the rest of the communities we serve,” Morante said. The energization of agriculture and livelihood projects is among the initiatives of OMF under its community electrification program, which also covers off-grid public schools, low-income households in the Meralco franchise area, rural health centers and water access. “Lack of electricity continues to be a challenge for many communities especially in rural Philippines. The agriculture and livelihood electrification is an expansion of our community electrification program that fosters inclusivity and equitable access to basic services powered by sustainable and renewable energy solution,” OMF president Jeffrey O. Tarayao said. As the corporate social development arm of the Manila Electric Company, OMF is committed to providing access to energy to as many underserved communities as possible as part of its mission to spreading the light. The post Let there be light: Davao de Oro rice mill gets energized appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MIF rules demand full disclosure
All documents related to the Maharlika Investment Fund, or MIF, should be open to public scrutiny under the rules of the National Archives of the Philippines, a portion of the MIF’s implementing rules and regulations showed. This is after Malacañang confirmed on Wednesday that the Bureau of Treasury issued the IRR of the Republic Act 11954, also known as the Maharlika Investment Fund Act of 2023 last week. The Palace uploaded the IRR to the Official Gazette’s website on 30 August after Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno told reporters on Tuesday that the MIF’s IRR had been “issued” last 28 August. Section 58 of the IRR said the Maharlika Investment Corporation’s, or MIC. records about its investment operations must be kept safe and up to date in accordance with the rules of the National Archives of the Philippines. Transparency via website “All reports of the MIC pursuant to the disclosure rules under existing laws shall be published on its website that shall be immediately updated and made easily accessible to the public,” the IRR read. “The relevant disclosure rules under Republic Act 8799 or the ‘Securities Regulation Code,’ Republic Act 11232, or the ‘Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines,’ and other laws, rules and regulations shall apply to the MIC,” it added. On the other hand, section 57 of the IRR said that all documents of the MIF and the MIC shall be open, available, and accessible to the public, as may be allowed by law, in both English and Filipino. It includes the following but not limited to (1) all investments thereof, by the MIC and on the portfolio of the MIF; (2) the Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth of the members and officials of the Board of Directors, Risk Management Committee, and Advisory Body; (3) The SALNs of those who appointed and designated the said members and officials; (4) Audit documents from the CoA; and (5) Similar documents and information. However, Section 59 of the IRR said that the information security culture should be established to protect and maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information from its creation, access, processing, transmission, retention, and disposal, in accordance with Republic No. 10173 or the “Data Privacy Act” and other relevant laws, rules, and regulations. “(The) IRR will be effective on 12 September 2023, fifteen days after publication,” Diokno told reporters in a Viber message. The MIF was made to help with social and economic growth. This will be done by making smart, profitable investments in key areas to protect and grow the value of the fund over time. The post MIF rules demand full disclosure appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
All Maharlika Fund documents mandated to be open to the public
All documents related to the Maharlika Investment Fund should be open to the public under the rules of the National Archives of the Philippines, a portion of the MIF's implementing rules and regulations showed. Malacañang only confirmed on Wednesday that the Bureau of Treasury issued the IRR of the Republic Act No. 11954, also known as the Maharlika Investment Fund Act of 2023 last week. The Palace only uploaded the IRR to the Official Gazette's website on 30 August after Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno told the Finance reporters on Tuesday that the MIF's IRR had been "issued" last 28 August. Section 58 of the IRR says that the Maharlika Investment Corporation's records about its investment operations must be kept safe and up to date in accordance with the rules of the National Archives of the Philippines. "All reports of the MIC pursuant to the disclosure rules under existing laws shall be published on its website that shall be immediately updated and made easily accessible to the public," the IRR read. "The relevant disclosure rules under Republic Act No. 8799 or the 'Securities Regulation Code,' Republic Act No. 11232, or the 'Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines,' and other laws, rules and regulations shall apply to the MIC," it added. On the other hand, Section 57 of the IRR said that all documents of the MIF and the MIC shall be open, available and accessible to the public, as may be allowed by law, in both English and Filipino. It includes the following but not limited to (1) all investments thereof, by the MIC and on the portfolio of the MIF; (2) the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth of the members and officials of the Board of Directors, Risk Management Committee, and Advisory Body; (3) The SALNs of those who appointed and designated the said members and officials; (4) Audit documents from the COA; and (5) Similar documents and information. However, Section 59 of the IRR said that information security should be established to protect and maintain the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information from its creation, access, processing, transmission, retention and disposal, in accordance with Republic No. 10173 or the "Data Privacy Act" and other relevant laws, rules, and regulations. "(The) IRR will be effective on 12 September 2023, fifteen days after publication," Diokno told Finance reporters in a Viber message. The post All Maharlika Fund documents mandated to be open to the public appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Relishing sweetness of success
A 35-year-old fourth-generation farmer is continuing the legacy of his father in producing delis from bananas, which are now making waves in Europe. Raymund Vincent Aaron, the self-styled ‘Banana Chief’ and the heir of Villa Socorro Farm and its factory that produces sumptuous banana chips headquartered in Pagsanjan, Laguna province, said he inherited his passion for agriculture and farming from his father, incorporating a streak of his own. Right after obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Management from Ateneo de Manila University in 2009, Raymund joined the budding family business. “I wanted to be an entrepreneur for as long as I can remember. We used to grow bananas on our land in Pagsanjan, and so, after graduating, doing business using bananas seemed the perfect fit,” Raymund shared. An indirect start The idea of exporting came through his father’s work in marketing for a multinational company, which inspired him to engage in international business. Starting off in 2008 with an initial capitalization of P5 million, the company produced banana chips, with the first export in 2014 to the United States. The Health Safety Certification from the Food and Drug Administration, a requirement of the Philippine authorities, was obtained in 2012, which further added credibility to the business as an exporter. “We began exporting indirectly through a local company that expressed interest in distributing our products to buyers there.” Targeting Europe According to the Department of Trade and Industry, Aaron, who has been a regular at DTI’s business matching events, recently returned from one such event held in Dubai coinciding with Gulfood 2023. Regular participation in business networking events and seminars since 2015 has provided valuable knowledge and insights on export market access, including the European Union. Be it the DTI or the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions handling the International Food Exhibition Philippines which is the biggest international food trade show in the country, Aaron has always found participation in the trade fairs to be beneficial. “You never knew who you would meet. I always carried samples of my products along,” he said. At one such event arranged by the DTI-Export Marketing Bureau, Aaron established a connection with the Philippine diplomatic mission in Switzerland. Soon, samples from Villa Socorro reached a few Swiss companies with the help of this link. The products were a hit with one distribution company. By the end of 2019, a 20-foot container with 1,000 boxes that cost $14,000 has been shipped to Switzerland. “It was support from the EMB that helped us pursue direct exports to Europe. We made our first link through them.” Recognizing the support he received, Aaron is always willing to share his skills and knowledge with other entrepreneurs and to contribute to local DTI capacity-building initiatives. Why the EU? The EU appears to be a lucrative market for the company as Aaron gradually expands the product range by including sweet potato chips and corn snacks. About 80 percent of total current revenue comes from exports, while 20 percent comes from sales at hotels, restaurants, canteens, airports, kiosks, and selected supermarkets in the Philippines. Villa Socorro’s exports to Europe are at five percent, with buyers in Switzerland, Norway and EU member state the Netherlands. Aaron wants to increase business with Europe, specifically with EU member states, which he regards as the best destinations for healthy organic food products made from tropical fruits. “It is a market that is willing to pay a premium for natural products.” EU buyers’ requirements Aaron’s drive to grow specifically in the EU market is evident in his readiness to comply with the necessary requirements.The Registered Exporter System number to avail of the EU Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus scheme to export tariff-free to the EU was obtained on the recommendation of the buyers to strengthen the business. The REX is a self-certification system wherein the origin of goods is declared by economic operators themselves by means of so-called statements about the origin. To be entitled to make out a statement of origin, an economic operator must be registered in a database by the competent authorities. The economic operator then becomes a “registered exporter.” Product and packaging development were also adjusted. There is a shift to use a more natural Brown Muscovado Sugar to suit customer preferences in the EU. Aaron’s company also created a sub-brand, Farmony, to market its products in the EU. “Farmony creates harmony between farmers, manufacturers, and consumers. Our existing brand, Villa Socorro Farm Sabanana Banana Chips, really targets Filipinos or people looking for Filipino products. We created Farmony to have a product that can easily blend on the shelves of the EU market,” Aaron said. Social entrepreneur Being on a farm allowed Aaron to become a social entrepreneur. He understands well the needs of the farmer. To support banana farmers around his family plantation, he buys 98 percent of the fruit from the community that he fondly refers to as “partner farmers.” “We buy bananas from more than 200 farmers in a radius of 5km around our farm. We only plant two percent of the bananas that we use for banana chips,” he said. By processing 600,000 tons of bananas every year, Aaron provides the local farmers with a market for their produce. He considers himself lucky that things fell into place, enabling him to give back to the community that helped him get to where he is today. Gearing up for the future” I am still here. I look forward to expanding our business. Sticking with the snacks theme, we’re looking at making use of the abundant farm produce in our region and the rest of the Philippines to create fun and healthy snacks.” Aaron is determined to transform his business into a reliable food company by creating an entire line of banana products and drawing in loyal customers at home and abroad. The ARISE Plus Philippines project is enabling Philippine exporters to take advantage of EU market access and the trade privileges granted under the Generalized System of Preference (GSP+). It supports the overall EU-Philippines trade relationship and trade-related policies. ARISE Plus Philippines is a project of the Government of the Philippines, with the DTI as the lead partner, together with the Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, Bureau of Customs, the Department of Science and Technology, as well as the private sector. It is funded by the EU with the International Trade Centre as the technical agency for the project. The post Relishing sweetness of success appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
GoTyme logs 1-M depositors
The Gokongwei Group’s banking arm GoTyme Bank logged 1 million customers, a few months before its first-year anniversary on 20 October 2023. In a statement, Nate Clarke, GoTyme Bank president and CEO said the success of GoTyme was due to the digital platform’s consistent focus on human banking — the first in the Philippines with a “phygital” model that seamlessly blends the convenience of digital technology and human-led touchpoints in its operations. He said GoTyme also owes its success to the public confidence inspired by the tie-up between trusted local and international brands — the Gokongwei Group and the Tyme Group — that has allowed it to realize strong deposit growth and considerable traction of its ‘phygital’ banking that offers superior products and services built around its customers’ needs and wishes. Financial inclusion tool GoTyme redefined “preferred banking” as it democratizes access to the bank’s premium offerings regardless of the customers’ amounts in their accounts — a 5-percent interest rate per annum for all savings accounts, and no minimum maintaining balance, or regular deposits of specified amounts as required by other financial institutions. It also delivers on its promise to keep banking simple, secure and sustainable. “From the simplest account-opening procedure — GoTyme maintains kiosks in Gokongwei retail ecosystem, where, assisted by bank ambassadors, customers can open accounts for as modest as P50 using just one valid and accepted identification, upon which they will automatically get their GoTyme Bank Visa debit card — to the most exciting rewards system offered by what is arguably the best debit card today that allows customers and shoppers to earn points anywhere and everywhere, it’s no surprise that GoTyme’s market penetration is simply “getting better and better,” according to Clarke. Clarke said artificial intelligence technology in banking had improved customer experience — using chatbots from account inquiries to money transfers, loan applications, financial advice, account management, and many more, according to a Forbes 2023 article. Based on a Economist Intelligence Unit survey, 77 percent of bankers believe that the ability to unlock the value of AI will spell the difference between the success or failure of banks. The post GoTyme logs 1-M depositors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CA orders release of 4 Chinese nabbed in POGO Las Piñas raid
The Court of Appeals ordered the release of four Chinese nationals arrested in a police raid on a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operation (POGO) in Las Piñas City on 27 June. The raid was conducted by the Philippine National Police Anti-Cyber Crime Group (PNP-ACG). Covered by the CA’s 10th Division order dated 28 July 2023 were Ang Chin Keong, Choo Jun Cheng, Choo Wei Jazz, and a certain "Edy". Lawyer Jocel Isidro Dilag filed the petition for the issuance of the writ of habeas corpus on behalf of the four foreign nationals. A writ of habeas corpus “is a writ directed to a person detaining another, commanding the former to produce the body of the latter at a designated time and place.” It extends “to all cases of illegal and arbitrary detention by which any person is deprived of his liberty.” “We have examined into the cause of caption and restraint of Keong, et al., and we are satisfied that they are unlawfully restrained. The totality of the circumstances show that Keong, et al, were unlawfully restrained,” the CA said in an 18-page decision penned by Associate Justice Rex Bernard Pascual. “The PNP, through P/BGen Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., P/BGen Sidney S. Hernia, PCol. Atty. Arvie A. Paraon-Bueno, PCol. Atty. Nova De Castro, and all those acting under their instructions and command, including those who may have taken actual, legal, and/or constructive custody of Keong, et al., are ordered to immediately discharge and/or release from any custody, detention, confinement, or other restraint which is currently undertaken at Hong Tai Compound, 501 Alabang Zapote Road, Almanza Uno, Las Piñas City,” the CA added. Named respondents in the petition for the writ of habeas corpus are Nartatez, regional director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), and Hernia, director of the PNP-ACG. The four petitioners were among the more than 2,700 individuals, including 600 Chinese, 180 Vietnamese, 140 Indonesian, 130 Malaysian nationals, and Filipinos, who were detained at the premises of the Hong Tai Compound, a mixed-use facility for residential and commercial purposes, situated along Alabang Zapote Road, Almanza Uno, Las Piñas City. They claimed that a large part of the Filipino group had already been released by the respondents, while foreigners, including Keong’s group, are still detained in their respective rooms “against their will, without any running water and food rations”. Also, the petitioners claimed they were even required to get the respondents’ permission just to gain access to a working toilet or buy potable water from the compound’s convenience store. The PNP-ACG on the other hand defended the raid and told the CA that the foreign nationals were not allowed to leave the premises being potential victims of human trafficking. The respondents noted that most of them are with expired passports, no working visas, or minors, whose passports are captured by the employer POGO facility. The PNP-ACG said they had already referred the foreign nationals to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) for assessment as potential trafficking victims. But in siding with the petitioners, the Court took into consideration the failure of the PNP to present a copy of the search warrants used as the basis for conducting the raid. The CA noted, “The fact that no search warrants were presented by the PNP would show that the warrants are adverse to it. Section 3 (e), Rule 131 of the Revised Rules on Evidence provides that evidence willfully suppressed would be adverse if produced, unless contradicted and overcome by other evidence.” It further held that "no judicial process was presented to the Court by the PNP to allow for the continued detention of Keong et al." Also, it said even the purported protective custody of Keong, et. al., does not justify their continued restraint. While the PNP cited the Expanded Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012 as the process to secure and restrict the movement of the said foreign nationals who are possible victims of human trafficking, the appellate court held that the absence of the latter's consent is "fatal to their continued detention." The post CA orders release of 4 Chinese nabbed in POGO Las Piñas raid appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Replicating customers’ IDs needs permission — NPC
Hotel receptionists and car and telecommunication sales agents are reminded by the National Privacy Commission that replicating customers’ identification cards should be allowed by the owner first before they’re processed to avoid fines and complaints as mandated under the Data Privacy Act of 2012. The NPC released the advisory as the concerns draw attention to prevalent practices by certain businesses and associations (both Personal Information Controllers or PICs and Personal Information Processors or PIPs) of authorizing, allowing, or acquiescing its employees, agents, or personnel in taking the ID cards of customers, guests or other persons using their personal electronic devices, or without appropriate safeguards, and/or without the required privacy notice. According to the NPC, the “deliberate” violation of the customer’s data privacy has been happening in some hotels, as establishment’s receptionists take photos of guest IDs using their personal smartphones instead of company-issued phones. In the part of car sales agents, personnel take photocopies of the ID of a potential customer for verification purposes, just like agents of telecommunication companies req uesting a potential customer to send a photo of the customer’s ID via private communication such as Viber, WhatsApp, or Facebook Messenger. For customers applying for home and condominium acquisitions, homeowners and condominium associations usually take copies and require the deposit of physical IDs with sensitive personal information without appropriate policies and security measures for their PIP security agency to implement. Great risk of causing security incidents “The Commission emphasizes that these types of activities carry a great risk of causing security incidents, data breaches, unauthorized uses, inadequate disposal, lack of informed consent and profiling or discrimination, among others.” PICs/PIPs shall obtain the consent of the data subjects prior to the collection and processing of their personal data, subject to exemptions provided by the DPA and other applicable laws and regulations,” according to the NPC advisory released on Saturday. The NPC further reiterated that it is the duty of the PICs, as well as their employees, agents, or representatives, to uphold the confidentiality and privacy of the personal data that they process. To this end, the Commission mandates the following practices: Consent: Where it is the necessary criteria for lawful processing of Sensitive Personal Information under Sections 13 of the Data Privacy Act, the PIC must obtain explicit consent from individuals to capture and process their identification photos and details. Privacy Notice: Provide a clear, understandable, and transparent privacy notice before capturing their IDs. The notice should include the purposes of the processing, the security measures implemented, the retention period, and the purpose limitation, among others. Secure Storage and Transmission: Implement policies to ensure that photos taken by personal devices are stored in a manner that follows company policies and the 1 Section 19 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Data Privacy Act of 2012 DPA. Implementing safeguards Also, the PICs should implement safeguards that ensure that the photos cannot be used by the employees, agents or personnel for other purposes, such as encryption, access controls and other tools. With regard proper disposal, the NPC said PICs should establish policies and procedures that ensure the disposal and deletion of the photos once the purpose is fulfilled, and PICs should conduct verification and audits to ensure that disposal policies have been complied with. “We reiterate that processing personal data violative of the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and related issuances of the Commission are subject to penalties and administrative fines,” the NPC stated. The post Replicating customers’ IDs needs permission — NPC appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Meralco energizes urban coastal village in Navotas City
One hundred thirty seven families living in an urban coastal village in Navotas City now have access to stable electricity following the household electrification program of the One Meralco Foundation (OMF), the corporate social development arm of the Manila Electric Company (Meralco). The project involved financial assistance to cover the installation of individual service entrances for the housing of electric meters and a certificate of final electrical inspection facilities for households living in Barangay Tangos North, Navotas City. Meralco also installed distribution facilities for the benefit of the community. The electrification program is a welcome development for the community members—many of whom earn a living by fishing, working as laborers in the construction industry, and driving public vehicles—following a massive fire that hit the area in 2019 and the pandemic that followed a year after. For resident Emma Ibong, the electrification assistance allowed her to open a sari-sari store selling cold drinks and ice cream. "The electricity provides a huge relief not only in terms of safety but also in terms of livelihood," she said. With the electrification program, Navotas Lone District Representative Hon. Tobias "Toby" M. Tiangco said community residents can now be discouraged from using candles for lighting, therefore minimizing the risks of possible fire hazards. "Electricity service is not just a convenience. It is also a way to ensure the community's safety since people can do away with using candles which can cause fires," Rep. Tiangco said in Filipino. Since OMF started its community electrification program in 2011, it has energized over 70,000 low-income households in the Meralco franchise area and 290 off-grid public schools in far-flung places across the country. OMF expanded the program to cover rural health centers, agriculture and livelihood facilities, and water access. Meralco Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer and OMF President Jeffrey O. Tarayao said the community electrification program of the Foundation serves as an avenue to provide sustainable development opportunities to underserved communities in the country. "Together with our partners from the government—both at the local and national level—and the support of the communities we serve, electrification becomes more meaningful, driving productivity for families so they can improve their livelihood and contribute positively to the development of our country," he said. Meralco is one with the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in pursuing full household electrification by the end of his term. The post Meralco energizes urban coastal village in Navotas City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Conman duped PAGCOR worth P75M
An official of a private corporation engaged in e-sabong was shocked to learn that the performance bond he posted on behalf of the corporation worth millions of pesos is now gone after it was released by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to an unauthorized individual. Joaquin P. Sy, Chairman of the Board, and Chief Finance Officer of Kamura Highlands Gaming and Holdings Inc., told the Daily Tribune that in his meeting with PAGCOR's AVP for Fund Management Lolita Gonzales last week, he was able to confirm that a check worth 75 million pesos was issued in the name of one Jewel Castro and was immediately encashed thereafter last year. Sy said that he personally posted the performance bond on 4 April 2022 with the PAGCOR Office in Malate, Manila on behalf of Kamura Highlands Gaming and Holdings Inc., through two manager’s checks payable to PAGCOR and drawn against his personal bank accounts. In return, PAGCOR issued official receipts and other documents proving the bond had been posted. Sy said the original copies of receipts and documents are still in his possession. As per the strict requirements of PAGCOR, the original copy of the receipts must be surrendered before the withdrawal of the bond is allowed. It is also mandatory that checks must be payable in the name of the corporation which posted the bond. It was learned that just a few months after the posting of the said performance bond, President Duterte ordered Pagcor to stop the operation of E-Sabong. Sy in May 2022 submitted a letter request to then Pagcor Chairman Andrea Domingo thru Dianne Erica Jogno—then VP for e-sabong licensing department— for the withdrawal of the said bond but to no avail. Several attempts to follow it up were also proved futile, Sy claimed. In 10 July 2023 Sy filed a letter request addressed to Mr. Alejandro Tengco, newly appointed PAGCOR Chairman and CEO. Sy was able to gain access to PAGCOR’s Finance Department only and was told of the anomaly. According to Sy, Gonzales told him the release of P75 million check to a certain Jewel Camura is an exceptional case. She, however, refused to elaborate nor provide him with the details and documents regarding the anomalous release of his money. Records show that Sy acquired majority shareholdings of Kamuraand in 2021, and on February 2022 an election of corporate officers was held where he became the treasurer and chairman of the board while his brother and his nominee Bernard Parocha were elected as the corporate secretary and vice president respectively. The post Conman duped PAGCOR worth P75M appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ARTA backpedals, nixes TOP-CRMS
The Anti-Red Tape Authority, or ARTA, made a surprising move in backtracking on an earlier approval of a port digitalization plan, apparently bowing to pressures from several powerful groups. ARTA’s about-face effectively shot down what could be the Marcos administration’s most potent anti-smuggling weapon. ARTA issued a memorandum last 25 July signed by ARTA director general, Secretary Ernesto Perez, in which it said its reevaluation of the Trusted Operator Program-Container Registry and Monitoring System or TOP-CRMS regulatory impact statement, or RIS, convinced it that reducing the cost of container deposits from the scheme was not accurate based on the benefit-cost analysis. Perez said the decision is “final” and denied bowing to outside pressures. “That’s our final recommendation unless either party will submit to us additional relevant documents,” Perez indicated. Part of the ARTA report reads: “Port congestion may not be used by PPA or Philippine Port Authority as a justification for government intervention,” with the proposed TOP-CRMS. It added that the PPA “cannot use congestion as a justification or basis to establish the proposed... TOP-CRMS.” The PPA which is the main beneficiary of the digitalization scheme indicated that it is studying its options. “We’ll study our options. As far as we are concerned, ARTA already issued a Good Practice RIS with a 36/40 rating for the TOP-CRMS program. I don’t think they have retracted that or recalled the rating which they previously issued,” PPA general manager Jay Santiago said. “So I don’t know what was the purpose of that ARTA memo nor its value or its effect on the previously issued Good Practice RIS rating. We submitted all required documents to ARTA sometimes twice even and they even consulted all stakeholders including oppositors before they issued the Good Practice RIS. The situation has not changed so we don’t understand what happened,” Santiago added. Complete reversal The latest ARTA memorandum is a complete turnaround from its 2 February evaluation which greenlighted the TOP-CRMS implementation and allowed the PPA to resume its suspended modernization plan. ARTA gave the program a rating of 36, meaning a “Good Practice RIS.” ARTA said in a February statement after it assessed the program, “PPA has provided concise and satisfactory evidence on all RIA sections. Hence, the RIS was assessed as Good Practice.” ARTA stressed there should be more regulations to address the current issue, which is also the leading cause of the problem. The PPA’s TOP-CRMS also meets ARTA’s criteria for cost-saving mechanisms, including the fee on container deposits and port access roads, and has reduced the dwell time of empty container returns to less than 72 hours. Under Section 6 of Presidential Decree 857, PPA must supervise, control, regulate, construct, maintain, operate, and provide facilities or services belonging to the Authority. Thus, under this mandate, TOP-CRMS will provide efficient port services to the public. Santiago said then, “With the approval by ARTA, I believe the concern on ease of doing business has been sufficiently addressed.” “PPA will continue to fine-tune the program, and the implementation of PPA AO No. 04-2021 and its IOG will be constantly monitored, and the necessary adjustments to the IOG will be made as necessary. TOP-CRMS seeks to remove the payment of container deposits and efficiently manage the return of empty containers. There have been a series of public consultations, and we have adjusted based on the need of the stakeholders,” Santiago added. Anti-smuggling initiative Ironically, ARTA reversed its TOP-CRMS recommendation a day after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. warned in his State of the Nation Address that the days of smugglers and hoarders of agricultural products are numbered as he identified the proposed Amendment of the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act as a priority legislation. The Chief Executive said in Filipino, “One of the reasons behind the higher prices is that smugglers and hoarders manipulate the prices of agricultural products. We will run after them, and we will file charges against them. We will not let these practices continue. The days of the smugglers and hoarders are numbered.” The President is also the secretary of agriculture. The PPA’s TOP-CRMS is a government-owned container monitoring system providing a whole-of-government approach to tracking container movement and management by giving relevant government agencies access to information and even automating and streamlining their processes. The anti-smuggling feature of the TOP-CRMS preempts cargo diversion or diverting shipments to another warehouse with real-time container tracking. Law enforcers could quickly identify where the shipments are located, which port stakeholders said would eliminate “for hire consignees,” as all foreign-owned shipping containers, both laden and empty, are monitored. Similar to the tracking system now in use among private port operators, the technology makes it easy for investigators to identify and prosecute suspected smugglers. Pressure from smugglers Industry insiders suspect that a powerful group of smugglers is pressuring concerned government agencies and regulators to stop the implementation of the TOP-CRMS because it would have a profound negative impact on their illegal activities. More importantly, the TOP-CRMS can detect illegal contraband and prevent entry into the country’s ports. It can eliminate smuggled drugs from entering any country’s entry points, including illegal arms shipments and, God forbid, nuclear materials. The data collected by the system can be shared with concerned agencies in charge of tax collection, law enforcement, import permit authorization, trade department, anti-smuggling units, intelligence units, etc. The wealth of data from the system will provide the PNP, AFP, BOC, BIR, DTI, DA, DSWD, Intelligence Community, and other relevant agencies an efficient tool to deter all forms of smuggling activities. The post ARTA backpedals, nixes TOP-CRMS appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Enhancing economic diplomacy worldwide
Since assuming office in 2022, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has embarked on 11 foreign visits aimed at enhancing diplomatic relations, fostering economic ties, and promoting international cooperation. His foreign visits hold significant importance in shaping the country’s global standing and pursuing its national interests. One of the Chief Executive’s primary objectives in his global forays is to strengthen regional ties within Southeast Asia. Recognizing the importance of regional cooperation, he has engaged with neighboring countries through bilateral meetings and participation in regional summits. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="161524,161523"] By promoting dialogue and collaboration, President Marcos Jr. aims to address mutual challenges such as climate change, maritime security, and terrorism that affect the region collectively. In particular, Marcos Jr. prioritized forging stronger ties with traditional allies like the United States, Japan and Australia. These visits have sought to reaffirm existing partnerships and explore new avenues for collaboration, particularly in the fields of trade, defense, and technology. Another critical aspect of the President’s foreign visits was to boost economic diplomacy and attract foreign investments to the Philippines. Recognizing the need for economic growth and job creation, he has engaged in high-level discussions with leaders and business representatives from various countries. These interactions have aimed to showcase the Philippines as an attractive investment destination and foster international confidence in the country’s economic prospects. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="161520,161521,161519,161514,161516,161518"] As part of his economic diplomacy efforts, President Marcos Jr. has also participated in international economic forums and trade summits, advocating for fair trade practices and increased market access for Philippine products and services. These engagements have helped position the Philippines as an active player in the global economy, enabling the country to benefit from the opportunities of an interconnected world. In these engagements, the President has demonstrated a commitment to addressing global challenges and representing the Philippines on the international stage. His participation in multilateral forums such as the United Nations General Assembly, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN Summit, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or APEC Summit have allowed him to engage with world leaders on various pressing issues. During his first year in office, President Marcos Jr. has been confronted with several international crises and humanitarian challenges. His foreign visits have presented opportunities to strengthen cooperation with other nations in times of need. As the world continues to grapple with complex challenges, the President’s diplomatic efforts have aimed to position the Philippines as a responsible and active member of the international community. The impact of his foreign visits will continue to shape the country’s relations with the world and its pursuit of national interests on the global stage. The post Enhancing economic diplomacy worldwide appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl cinema in the first year of BBM
Here, we look back at the state of the Philippine film industry since he took the seat of power 13 months ago. When President Marcos Jr. became the 17th leader of the nation, the country was on the brink of the “new normal.” The campaign elections even saw multitudes of crowds in the streets, the Filipinos’ political passion overpowering the fear of a Covid-19 infection. Covid-pandemic viewing By May 2022, the month of the presidential campaigns, the Department of Health said the country was at “minimal-risk case classification” with an average of only 159 cases per day. By June 2022, when the President took his oath, 69.4 million Filipinos had been fully vaccinated. Along with the country, the Philippine film industry started healing. On the same month, the country went under Covid-19 Alert Level 2, with 50-percent allowed capacity in indoor cinemas. Live film festivals The Marcos administration saw the return of Filipino film festivals in theaters. On Marcos’ fifth month as president, the QCinema International Film Festival, with the theme “in10City,” held hybdrid screenings — in-person and online. The Metro Manila Film Festival in December 2022, six months into the new presidency, went full force in cinemas for the second time during the pandemic. Earlier, in 2020, during the Duterte administration, the festival was held online for the first time, and the following year, in December 2021, after level alert measures in the Philippines were relaxed, the MMFF finally went back to the cinemas. However, only around 300 cinemas (down from the usual 900) were allowed to screen the MMFF entries. Meanwhile, the 18th edition of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival was held from 5 August to 31 October 2022 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, in select mall cinemas and online. But what made a mark during the Marcos administration’s first year was the inaugural edition of the 2023 Summer Metro Manila Film Festival. The SMMFF was held in Metro Manila and throughout the Philippines. Organized by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority in partnership with the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines, the first MMFF was supposed to be held in 2020, but was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2023, held from 8 to 18 April 2023 with the theme “Tuloy-tuloy ang Saya,” the summer festival featured eight entries and, like its December counterpart, even held a Parade of Stars. About Us But Not About Us by Jun Lana, produced by The IdeaFirst Company, Octobertrain Films and Quantum Films, emerged as the first Best Picture of the summer festival. [caption id="attachment_161372" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] About Us But Not About Us by Jun Lana[/caption] The Film Development Council of the Philippines’ sixth edition of its own mini-film festival, held during the Marcos administration’s third month, headed back to cinemas, offering free access to award-winning classic films of the new National Artists for Film and Broadcast Arts at TriNoma Cinema in Quezon City and in all Cinematheque centers nationwide (Manila, Iloilo, Negros, Davao and Nabunturan). CCP closes for renovations On 1 September 2022, CCP president Margarita Moran-Floirendo announced during a hearing of the Senate committee on cultural communities, that The Cultural Center of the Philippines — home to the Cinemalaya festival — will close its doors starting January 2023 for renovation and structural retrofitting works, and will reopen in March 2025. This marks the first time that Cinemalaya, on its 19th year, which has the theme “ilumiNasyon,” will be held at various venues inside the adjacent Philippine International Convention Center, from 4 to 13 August 2023. The rise of political films With the country deeply driven by polarized political views, the Marcos administration saw a war between political commercial films. [caption id="attachment_161370" align="aligncenter" width="1800"] ‘MAID in Malacanang’ stars Cristine Reyes, Diego Loyzaga and Ella Cruz. | Photograph courtesy of viva[/caption] On 29 July 2022, Darryl Yap’s period drama Maid in Malacañang, touted as “the most controversial film of the year,” was released to packed cinemas. The movie, about the Marcos family’s last three days in Malacañang Palace before they were forced into exile, premiered at SM North EDSA and was released nationwide on 3 August 2022. Yap, who passionately campaigned for Marcos, became a controversial filmmaker with the release of his Marcos film. Leni Robredo supporters tried to boycott the film, with some Filipino movie critics exposing themselves as heavily political and non-neutral with their reviews, accusing the film of propaganda and historical revisionism. The attempt to quash the movie’s release failed and it became a box-office hit, with producer Viva Films releasing a statement that it earned a whopping P21 million on its opening day and P63 million three days after its release. It was the first time in Philippine cinema history that local theaters nationwide saw a deluge of moviegoers lining up to watch a movie on the big screen, mostly driven by political affiliation. Another unsuccessful political attempt to diminish the film’s release was Vince Tañada’s re-release of his Martial Law film Katips to counter Maid in Malacañang. Tañada’s film eventually won Best Picture at the Famas Awards. MIM actress Ella Cruz’s remark during a press conference, that “history is like tsismis,” further fanned the flames of political debate online. Eight months later, in March 2022, Viva released Yap’s second installment in his Marcos trilogy, Martyr or Murderer, which now focused on Ferdinand Marcos and the assassination of Ninoy Aquino. Two anti-Marcos movies rose to combat the film — Joel Lamangan’s Oras de Peligro, released on the same day, and Tañada’s movie adaptation of his musical play Ako Si Ninoy, released one week earlier. Movie buffs, political analysts, film critics, the press and social media influencers dove into feverish commentaries on the three films, and Philippine cinemas were ignited and, for a while, became alive with social discourse. New FDCP head On 21 July 2022, Tirso S. Cruz III officially assumed his position as the head of the country’s national film agency, the Film Development Council of the Philippines. He replaced Liza Diño, who was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as FDCP chairperson on 12 August 2016. [caption id="attachment_161368" align="aligncenter" width="736"] FDCP chair Tirso Cruz III. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF FDCP[/caption] Cruz, a veteran actor, said that the target of the FDCP under the Marcos administration was to support local films, not just in Metro Manila, but also from regional filmmakers. He also professed support for film students and highlighted archiving as part of the FDCP’s agenda, with 42,000 materials in its archives to be salvaged. MTRCB In September 2022, the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board released a statement addressing the controversy about its proposal to expand its jurisdiction to online streaming services like Netflix, Vivamax, Amazon Prime and other streaming platforms. The MTRCB said it was responding to multitudes of complaints from parents and other concerned groups demanding that the agency regulate movie and TV online platforms to protect children from harmful viewing. The Marcos administration has seen a continuous boom in streamers, which began during the pandemic, with Vivamax becoming one of the leading local streamers due to the popularity of Filipino sexploitation films. On 23 February 2023, MTRCB chairperson Lala Sotto-Antonio expressed her gratitude to Senators Francis “Tol” Tolentino, Grace Poe and Sherwin Gatchalian for the separate bills they filed that would amend and expand the board’s mandate. “We welcome the move to amend the charter of the MTRCB as it will allow the agency to adequately adapt to changes in technology and the ever-evolving needs of the viewing public and our other stakeholders,” Sotto-Antonio said before the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media chaired by Senator Robinhood C. Padilla. Eddie Garcia Act In January 2023, the chamber passed through voice voting House Bill 1270, or the proposed Eddie Garcia Act, at the House plenary session. [caption id="attachment_161367" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] HOUSE Bill 1270 has been proposed in honor of the late actor Eddie Garcia. | Photograph courtesy of gma-7[/caption] Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte authored the bill, which aims to provide workers in the movie, television and radio entertainment industry opportunities for well-paid employment and protect them from economic exploitation, abuse and harassment, as well as hazardous working conditions. The bill was named after the late veteran actor Eddie Garcia, who died in 2019 after suffering a neck injury while shooting the television series Rosang Agimat, produced by GMA Network. According to Villafuerte, productions would go from 16 to 24 continuous work hours per set and would rush productions to save costs. The proposed law mandates that normal work hours of the worker or talent shall be eight hours a day; overtime work should not exceed more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period; and the total number of work hours shall not exceed 60 hours in a week. Paul Soriano Relatively unknown to most Pinoy moviegoers, filmmaker Paul Soriano was put on the limelight as the man behind the President’s advertisements — way back from campaigns since Marcos started out as vice governor, and then, governor of Ilocos Norte, up until his senatorial campaign, and eventually his campaign for the vice presidency and presidency. [caption id="attachment_161371" align="aligncenter" width="781"] PRESIDENTIAL Adviser on Creative Communications Paul Soriano. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ig/PAUL SORIANO[/caption] Of course, the opposition in the film industry predictably canceled Soriano, the blood nephew of First Lady Liza Cacho Araneta-Marcos. Dolly de Leon It was also during the BBM era that Filipina actress Dolly de Leon gained international fame for her performance in the 2022 Cannes Palme d’Or winner Triangle of Sadness. [caption id="attachment_161366" align="aligncenter" width="705"] Dolly de Leon gained international fame for her performance in the 2022 Cannes Palme d’Or winner ‘Triangle of Sadness.’ | Photograph courtesy ofig/dolly de leon[/caption] The 54-year old film, television and theater actress made history by becoming the first Filipino actor to be nominated at the British Academy Film Awards and Golden Globe Awards. Filipino movie fans and critics, having been exposed to global content since the rise of the streamers, plus the proliferation of self-published movie reviews, are generally still disappointed with the output and system of the Philippine film industry, but filled with hope that, with full support from the government, Philippine cinema will finally become truly internationally competitive, sustainable and recognized. The post Phl cinema in the first year of BBM appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»