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The Senate released what they call a “manifesto” that rejected popular initiative as a method for Charter change......»»
Labor groups rally against Charter change, call for wage hike instead
MANILA, Philippines — Labor groups are joining the opposition against Charter change (Cha-cha), with one group urging lawmakers to prioritize passing a law for a P150 wage hike for private sector workers. The Federation of Free Workers (FFW) vice president Jun Mendoza Ramirez in a statement on Sunday emphasized the need to concentrate on the immediate.....»»
5 climate change adaptation projects worth P540.3M given the nod
The People’s Survival Fund Board approved at least five climate change adaptation projects, endorsed by the Climate Change Commission amounting to P540.3 million, geared toward increasing the adaptive capacity of local government units to climate change adaptation. Robert E.A. Borje, the CCC Vice-chairperson and executive director, welcomed the latest development in the country’s fight against climate change. “The PSF Board’s approval of these five projects signals a pivotal message on the value of advancing adaptation measures at the local and community level, especially at a time when risks and challenges posed by climate change demand immediate and urgent actions,” he underscored. Borje cited Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, the PSF board chairperson, for his leadership and commitment to advancing the objectives of the survival funds. “I also thanked the PSF Board members for their sustained effort and collaboration throughout the review and evaluation, and field validation exercises, which led to CCC endorsement and PSF Board’s project approvals,” he said. The submissions of LGUs from the PSF Board-issued Call for Proposals from February to April 2023 are included in the five projects. Borje said adaptation interventions to be implemented by LGUs include the establishment of climate field schools for farmers, flood protection, river ecosystem management, installation of solar-powered pumps, and mangrove rehabilitation. “With the benefits to be provided by these projects, the PSF will be able to demonstrate effective and sustainable practices on local climate actions, championing the resilience of the most vulnerable sectors to climate change,” he added. The PSF Board approved a Php 2-million Project Development Grant or PDG for the Municipality of Besao, Mountain Province to undertake project preparatory activities such as hydrological and geotechnical studies to establish the rationale of the LGU’s adaptation intervention. The projects’ approval enabled 17 LGUs to receive support from the PSF and its PDG. Among the previously approved projects are from Lanuza, Surigao del Sur; Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte; Gerona, Tarlac; Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte; Sarangani Province; and San Francisco, Camotes Island, Cebu. Borje noted that the CCC, in coordination with the Department of Finance, is working on further streamlining the accession of PSF through enhancement of the processes entailed by project proposals from submission until the approval stage. The PSF was institutionalized in 2012, through the Republic Act 10174, which amends the Climate Change Act of 2009—to include the provision of long-term finance streams to enable the government to effectively address the problem of climate change. It aims to enhance the resilience of communities and ecosystems to climate change. The CCC is likewise mandated to conduct the Climate Rationale Review and Evaluation or CRRE of project proposals submitted for PSF, convening the National Panel of Technical Experts to look into the climate rationale of projects. The CRRE process takes into consideration the historical and present data, ensuring that projects are fit-for-purpose and responsive to specific climate risks and vulnerabilities of an LGU. The post 5 climate change adaptation projects worth P540.3M given the nod appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Japan, U.S.: ‘We got your back’
Key allies of the country expressed their unwavering support after a Chinese Coast Guard ship intentionally collided with a Philippine Navy boat to stop a resupply mission to the grounded BRP Sierra Madre on Ayungin Shoal. Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. described the maneuver as an escalation of China’s aggression within the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines. Japan issued a statement expressing support after the incident. “Japan expresses serious concern for actions which increase regional tensions, including a dangerous action that caused a collision between Chinese and Filipino ships on 22 October,” the Japanese Foreign Ministry said. It added that Japan believes the issue of the South China Sea is directly related to the peace and stability in the region and is a legitimate concern of the international community, including Japan. “Thus, Japan opposes any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force as well as any actions that increase tensions in the South China Sea,” it said. Citing the Japan-Philippines Joint Statement last February, the Foreign Ministry said the “government of Japan concurs with the Philippines’ long-standing objections to unlawful maritime claims, militarization, coercive activities, and threat or use of force in the South China Sea.” “Furthermore, Japan highly appreciates the government of the Philippines for having consistently complied with the arbitral tribunal’s award as to the disputes between the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China regarding the South China Sea, and has shown its commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the (West Philippine Sea), as stated in the statement by the Foreign Minister of Japan issued on the occasion of the seventh anniversary of the issuance of the award,” it said. Japan said it would continue to cooperate with the international community, such as the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the United States, to “protect free, open and peaceful seas.” ‘Ironclad’ vow The United States, meanwhile, reiterated its “ironclad” commitment to the Philippines. According to a White House statement, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan assured National Security Adviser Eduardo Año of US support in safeguarding its sovereign rights in the WPS under the Mutual Defense Treaty between both nations. “Sullivan reiterated US support for our Philippine allies following the PRC Coast Guard and maritime militia’s dangerous and unlawful actions on 22 October, obstructing a routine Philippine resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal,” the statement read. “Sullivan emphasized the ironclad US commitments to the Philippines under theUS-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, which extends to armed attacks on Philippine public vessels, aircraft and armed forces — to include those of its Coast Guard — in the Pacific, including in the West Philippine Sea,” it added. Signed in 1951, the Philippines and the United States agreed that an armed attack in the Pacific area on either of the parties would be dangerous to its own peace and safety and declared that it would act to meet the common dangers by its constitutional processes. The White House said Sullivan and Año “reaffirmed the enduring alliance and friendship between our nations and discussed upcoming US-Philippine engagements and ways to further strengthen our close partnership.” Manila vs Beijing Both Manila and Beijing condemned the incident, which they said violated their sovereign rights over Ayungin Shoal, a low-tide elevation in the WPS. The two countries traded blame for the incident, which also sparked concern from Australia, Canada and South Korea. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration rejected Beijing’s historical nine-dash line claim to the WPS. Militia boats utilized Teodoro labeled the Chinese actions near the shoal as deliberate. “Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels, in blatant violation of international law, harassed and intentionally hit the Unaiza May 2 and Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Cabra,” Teodoro said. “We are here to decry in the strongest terms this egregious violation and illegal act within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone and the obfuscation of the truth by China’s distorting of the story to fit its own ends.” His comments came hours after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with security officials and ordered the Coast Guard to investigate the incident, which was “being taken seriously at the highest levels of government,” Malacañang said. The military monitored “a large number of Chinese maritime militia vessels” swarming in the West Philippine Sea, National Security Council spokesperson, Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya, said. In a television interview, Malaya said these vessels were spotted “not only in the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal and Bajo de Masinloc but also in other features, including (Scarborough Shoal) and Sabina (Escoda) Shoal.” “We are alarmed by the environmental degradation our Coast Guard ships were able to monitor in these areas,” he told the ANC. Malaya noted that environmental degradation or coral destruction would directly impact the livelihood of the fishermen in the WPS. “Sometimes we forget the reasons why we are pushing our rights in the WPS. Some critics say this is just posturing on the part of the Philippines or a tug-of-war between China and the Philippines. No, this is not,” he stressed. “This is a battle for the resources of our country, particularly for our fishermen, so that when we monitor coral destruction in parts of the WPS, it alarms the government because it directly impacts the livelihood of our fishermen,” he said. Malaya also slammed China’s “maligned information operation” and sharing of “false narratives” in its sweeping claims on the WPS. “Definitely, there’s a maligned information operation going on nowadays that is shared to the public and we are just happy it is not just the Philippine government that is sharing our side here — we have allies, if we may call them witnesses, from the media,” he said. The post Japan, U.S.: ‘We got your back’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
POUND-FOR-POUND — Good guy Gibbons gives Filipino boxers the chance to shine
If you’re a talented fighter nursing dreams of becoming a world champion, there is one guy you need to get in touch with. If you’re a promoter who has got a bevy of promising fighters but with no strong connections to the guys who matter in the world of big-time boxing, you have to meet the fellow who makes things happen. That dude is no other than Sean Gibbons, who heads MP Promotions and a sprinkling of other influential outfits in the United States that gives boxers from all over the opportunity they deserve. Having trouble with your boxer’s stagnant world rating? Call Sean Gibbons. Can’t seem to get the big breaks? Call Sean Gibbons. Being given the run-around by a scammer, give Sean Gibbons a call. You see, Gibbons is a do-it-all boxing man who is a big daddy to just about any major Filipino fighter. He has got a deep knowledge of the fight game since he used to fight during his heyday. But before you start conjuring up images of Gibbons battling it out with boxing’s marquee names, pinch yourself first. Gibbons never achieved greatness as a boxer. He was more of a pretender than a contender, having racked up a 14-7-3 win-loss-draw record with seven knockouts before finally calling it a day in 1996. He never even fought in Las Vegas and instead showcased his wares in obscurity, hopping into one small town and city after another. After spending his first five pro bouts in Oklahoma City, Gibbons brought his act elsewhere and in places he never knew existed: Hugo, Purcell, Waubeek. A year before he retired in 1995, Gibbons, now 56, even traveled to Germany and fought and lost by knockout to local boy Ruediger May. Two more bouts on American soil — the first in Des Moines, Iowa, and the second in Miles City, Montana — paved the way for one final stop in Denmark against Peter Madsen. Gibbons would lose that by stoppage again and decided that enough was enough. Pretty soon, Gibbons got himself doing odd jobs in boxing through a relative — uncle Pat O’ Grady — father to former world lightweight champion Sean O’Grady. “I got the boxing bug from him. I would set up the ring, help sell tickets and train fighters… I started from the bottom,” Gibbons, born in Long Beach, California, said, noting that the first fighter he trained was heavyweight Wimpy Halstead. Oftentimes, Gibbons “would jump in as one of the fighters in the card and I was able to travel the world.” He also got aligned with Top Rank and credits Hall of Fame Bruce Trampler and fight coordinator Pete Susens as his mentors and takes great pride in his close association with eight-division legend Manny Pacquiao. Gibbons actually came to the Pacquiao show rather late. But his seven-year stint working for Pacquiao was the most memorable, saying it doesn’t compare with the 35 other years of involvement with boxing. “Seven years I spent with him were better than the other 35 years,” Gibbons, who graduated from Simi Valley High, said. Gibbons revealed that after Australian banger Jeff Horn elbowed and butted and wrestled his way in carving out a controversial points win in Brisbane in July 2018, “Pacquiao had pretty much been left for dead by some people.” It was right at this time when Gibbons entered the scene as Pacquiao’s go-to-guy for meaningful fights while also providing other Filipino boxers the break they need to become successful. Gibbons didn’t disappoint and was instrumental in striking a deal for fights involving Adrien Broner and Keith Thurman that resulted in a “tremendous run.” The victory over Thurman would go down as an epic as it made Pacquiao the oldest to win a world welterweight crown in July 2019 in Las Vegas. Now that Pacquiao has sailed into the sunset, Gibbons is dedicating his time and effort to the betterment of the other talents under MP Promotions, the Pacquiao-owned company that has majority of the country’s top ring talent under contract. And this is where Gibbons wields his expertise and proof of his savvy can be seen on Jerwin Ancajas, Pedro Taduran, Rene Cuarto, Mark Magsayo and current two-belt world super-bantamweight titleholder Marlon Tapales. Also under Gibbons’ care are Jonas Sultan, Vincent Astrolabio, Jade Bornea and Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist and Asian Games silver medalist Eumir Marcial. Though not every one of them managed to win a world title, Gibbons draws utmost satisfaction from the helping hand that he had extended to them. “The most satisfying thing is to change lives of the fighters and take fighters who wouldn’t normally get these opportunities.” Also, Gibbons points to Pacquiao as a reason why he was able to pull it off. “I had the name Manny Pacquiao promotions and Manny Pacquiao was behind me but the biggest, biggest key was Al Haymon and he took my word for guys like Jerwin Ancajas, Mark Magsayo, Jonas Sultan and many, many others.” And there is no stopping Gibbons from doing the same thing especially when his clients’ welfare is on the line. A few months ago, Gibbons earned the ire of a state commission and got slapped with a ban. Still, Gibbons swears it is his way of showing that he always got his clients’ back. So how does he want people to remember him? “I would like to be remembered as someone who gave his all, no regrets. Just you know, when I work with someone, I put all my heart and soul into it. I got suspended for five for screaming at referees but I would like to be remembered for a guy who always had his client, fighters and boxers’ back and that when we went at it, we gave it our all.” If you end up going to war, you’d certainly want somebody like Sean Gibbons right by your side. The post POUND-FOR-POUND — Good guy Gibbons gives Filipino boxers the chance to shine appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden fears US chaos could hit Ukraine aid
President Joe Biden admitted Wednesday he was worried that political turmoil in Washington could threaten US aid to Ukraine, urging Republicans to stop their infighting and back "critically important" assistance for Kyiv. Biden added that he would soon be giving a major speech on the need to support Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion after the chaos in Washington alarmed US allies. "It does worry me," Biden told reporters when asked whether the ousting of Republican House speaker Kevin McCarthy by hardliners in his own party could derail more funds for Ukraine's war effort. "But I know there are a majority of members of the House and Senate of both parties who have said that they support funding Ukraine." A last-gasp deal in Congress to avoid a US government shutdown at the weekend contained no fresh funding for Ukraine, and hopes for a quick solution have been further complicated by McCarthy's exit on Tuesday. The contenders to replace him hold a range of views but among them is hard-right Republican Jim Jordan, who has been notably skeptical on funding Ukraine. The timing is critical, with the White House warning that aid could run out within months just as Ukraine tries to push forward its slow-moving offensive against Russia before winter sets in. Biden indicated there was "another means by which we may be able to find funding" without congressional approval, but would not give further details. The president will get a briefing on Ukraine from his national security team on Thursday, the first to feature the new top US military officer, General Charles "CQ" Brown, the White House added. 'Keep our commitment' The president's comments reflected a change of tone, as Biden had told allies in a call on Tuesday that he was "confident" of getting fresh aid passed, according to the White House. The US president said he would now make the case for the importance of helping Ukraine as it battles the full-scale invasion launched by Russia in February 2022. "I'm going to be announcing very shortly a major speech I'm going to make on this issue, and why it's critically important for the United States and our allies that we keep our commitment," Biden said. Biden declined to say when he would make the speech. Russia has said that the questions over the future of US aid reflect growing fatigue in the West over its support for Ukraine. But the White House insisted that there were no cracks in the alliance when Biden spoke to the leaders of key European allies and others on Tuesday. "None of them brought up that they were concerned," Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters. "They have their own domestic political issues that they have to deal with as well." German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who was among those who spoke with Biden, said on Wednesday he was "convinced" of continued US support for Ukraine. The United States is by far the biggest supporter of Kyiv, committing more than $43 billion in military assistance to Kyiv so far, while Congress has approved a total of $113 billion in aid including humanitarian help. Without new aid being approved, the funding could run out in a "couple of months," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said. In a statement Wednesday, the US military said it had given Ukraine's armed forces more than 1 million rounds of seized Iranian ammunition. But the White House's Jean-Pierre said she "wouldn't connect" this with concerns over the future of US aid. The post Biden fears US chaos could hit Ukraine aid appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Total lawfare’: Ukraine’s other front in the war
On 26 February 2022, while Russian tanks were barrelling towards Kyiv, Ukrainian lawyers were fighting on a different front, submitting a case against Moscow at the International Court of Justice. The gilded halls of the Peace Palace in The Hague, where the court sits, are a world away from the trenches of Donbas but Ukraine believes its legal attacks on Russia are a critical part of the fight. What cases are open in Ukraine's campaign of all-out "lawfare" against Moscow and, with little chance of Russian compliance, what's the point? Where are the legal front lines? The Hague, Strasbourg, and Hamburg. Ukraine has dragged Russia before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which rules on disputes between nations, arguing that President Vladimir Putin abused the UN Genocide Convention when he used an alleged "genocide" in eastern Ukraine as a pretext for invasion. The final arguments in this case will be heard later Wednesday. Also in The Hague, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Putin, accusing him of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children, a war crime. Neither of these courts, however, can try Russian leaders, including Putin, for the crime of "aggression", defined as an attack on one state by another in breach of the UN charter. So a special group of prosecutors from Ukraine, the EU, the United States, and the ICC has been set up in The Hague with a view to establishing a special tribunal to bring senior Russians to trial. Ukraine also has cases open at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg over alleged Russian human rights abuses. Finally, Ukraine also brought cases to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in Hamburg over what it says is Russia's disregard for international maritime law. Will Russia comply? It seems unlikely that Russia would comply with any ruling from an international court -- for example, in March 2022, the ICJ ordered Moscow to immediately halt its invasion. Russia didn't even turn up to the hearings in that case. But it's far from an academic exercise, said Cecily Rose, assistant professor of public international law at Leiden University. "There are examples of cases in which Russia has complied at least partially with an adverse ruling by an international court," Rose told AFP, citing a 2015 verdict in which Moscow reportedly stumped up half the cash it was ordered to. "It shows that non-compliance cannot be cynically assumed. Most of the time, states do comply with awards and judgments rendered by international courts and tribunals." What's the point? Even if Russia doesn't comply, Kyiv and most legal experts think the international community needs to draw a line in the sand. "Some countries do not comply with the law, including Russia. However, it is still important to call them out and to bring a case against them when they do breach the law," said Melanie O'Brien, assistant professor at the University of Western Australia Law School. "The case demonstrates that other countries do not view Russia's conduct as acceptable -- but rather, as unlawful," O'Brien told AFP. A ruling from the ICJ against Russia would be a further element in isolating Moscow and confirming it broke international law, she said. "It is also an important acknowledgment for victims of human rights abuses and international crimes such as war crimes that what happened to them and their loved ones was not lawful," she added. Proving that Russia's actions were in contravention of international law could also be key in future peace negotiations, including over potential reparations, noted Rose. How long will it take? The wheels of justice grind slowly. The ICJ "genocide" case is only about whether the court even has jurisdiction. A special tribunal is politically sensitive and will take a long time to establish. But the wheels of justice also grind exceedingly fine. "Just because Putin won't comply with a ruling now, he won't be in power forever," said O'Brien. "At some point, a change of regime will occur and may lead to compliance with international law." The post ‘Total lawfare’: Ukraine’s other front in the war appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Anti-Covid drug may have led to virus mutations: study
An anti-Covid drug widely used across the world may have caused mutations in the virus, researchers said on Monday, but there was no evidence that the changes had led to more dangerous variants. Pharmaceutical giant Merck's antiviral pill molnupiravir was one of the earliest treatments rolled out during the pandemic to prevent Covid becoming more severe in vulnerable people. The drug, which is taken orally over a five-day course, works mainly by creating mutations in the virus with the goal of weakening and killing it. However, a new UK-led study has shown that molnupiravir "can give rise to significantly mutated viruses which remain viable," lead author Theo Sanderson told AFP. Sanderson, a geneticist at London's Francis Crick Institute, emphasised that there is no evidence that "molnupiravir has to date created more transmissible or more virulent viruses." None of the variants that have swept the world were due to the drug, he added. But "it is very difficult to predict whether molnupiravir treatment could potentially lead to a new widely circulating variant which people don't have prior immunity to," he added. Mutational signature For the study, which was published in the journal Nature, the researchers sifted through databases of more than 15 million genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes the Covid disease. The researchers used this data to track changes in how the virus mutated during the pandemic, finding signs of a particular "mutational signature" in patients they believe is linked to molnupiravir. In 2022, as the drug was prescribed in huge numbers, there was a significant increase in patients who had this mutational signature, the study found. This signature was more commonly found in countries where the drug was widely prescribed, such as the United States, UK, Australia and Japan. But in countries where it was not approved, including Canada and France, it was rarer. Merck refuted the study, saying the researchers had relied on "circumstantial associations" between where and when the sequences were taken. "The authors assume these mutations were associated with viral spread from molnupiravir-treated patients without documented evidence of that transmission," Merck said in a statement sent to AFP. Sanderson rebuffed this claim, saying the researchers had used "several independent lines of evidence to identify with confidence that molnupiravir drives this mutational signature". That included a separate analysis of treatment data in England, which found that more than 30 percent of mutation events involving the signature were in people who had taken molnupiravir. However, just 0.04 percent of people in England were prescribed the drug in 2022, the study said. Other anti-Covid drugs do not work in the same manner, so would not cause these kinds of mutations, Sanderson said. 'Incredibly important' Experts not involved in the study seemed to side with the British researchers. Stephen Griffin, a virologist at the UK's University of Leeds, said it was an "incredibly important, well-conducted piece of research". Jonathan Ball, a virologist at the University of Nottingham, said the research showed a "strong link" between molnupiravir and the occasional, limited spread of highly mutated genomes. "What isn't clear is if any of the transmitted viruses contained mutations which would change how they would behave -- for example if they were more or less transmissible, more pathogenic or less susceptible to our immunity," he added. The experts emphasised that molnupiravir is not dangerous to people who are currently taking the drug. They also did not call for the drug to be abandoned altogether. Molnupiravir is already being used by itself "less and less" as its effectiveness had waned against vaccinated people who are not at risk, Griffin said. While the existing research might suggest that molnupiravir should no longer be prescribed by itself, "it shouldn't be discarded and could still be valuable if we were to use it in drug combinations," he added. Sales of molnupiravir, sold under the brand name Lagevrio, topped $20 billion last year. However sales fell 82 percent in the second quarter of 2023 compared to the same period last year, according to Merck. The post Anti-Covid drug may have led to virus mutations: study appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Change with the times
Times have changed. Before, going abroad was like a death sentence for a typical Filipino family. Stories of infidelity, marital problems, drugs, gambling, and other vices were aplenty for Filipinos seeking greener pastures overseas. It was understandable. Working abroad wasn’t easy. Before you could talk to your wife and children, a father working in an oil field in Jeddah or Riyadh had to go to Souq every Saturday so he could use a telephone. If his children wanted something, say a pair of rubber shoes, they had to trace their feet on a sheet of paper and mail it to Dad. It took a week or two — even months — before the mail arrived in the Middle East. The same went for the wife. If she wanted to say something she couldn’t utter over the phone, she had to record it on a cassette tape and mail it to Saudi. Again, it was a long process, and many things would have already happened before her husband could hear her voice. This kind of setup led to a lot of broken families. How often have we seen a situation where the husband got lonely abroad, fell in love with his workmate, and decided to marry in the Middle East? During vacations, they would go home to their families as if nothing happened. Some established families in the Middle East while sending remittances to their original families in the Philippines. The children also were affected. With their father or mother working abroad, the children had nowhere to turn but to their relatives, who usually had their own families to tend to. Yes, their fathers or mothers always provided their wants, like the latest gadgets, chocolates, shirts, and rubber shoes, but the children still felt empty as they longed for the love, care and affection that only their parents could provide. Without their parents, the children became vulnerable, leading to many bad choices. They fell prey to a lousy company that encouraged them to smoke, gamble and do drugs at such a young age. And when they ended up in either a drug facility or prison, the overseas-based parents would come home and blame their children, saying: I sacrificed a lot and went abroad for you. Why did you do this to me? But everything is now a thing of the past. With the advent of social media and other modern communication tools, the world is now more miniature. Overseas Filipinos can now call their families anytime, anywhere, and talk to them as if they were just in the next room. A Viber call from Doha, Toronto, Rome, or Los Angeles is now almost the same as a call from Quiapo or Divisoria. If you want to know the whereabouts of your beloved, just a few clicks on Facebook or Instagram, and you will get instant answers. If you want to see their faces, you can call them via video call to talk to them as if they were standing beside you. You can also install CCTV cameras inside your house and access them through your mobile device, even if you’re out of the country. With that, you can monitor your children’s routines even if you’re not around. But the best part is that everything is free if you have cellular data or a stable internet connection. That’s why many Filipinos are becoming bolder and more aggressive in pursuing careers overseas. With the advent of modern technology, they have become more open-minded about packing their bags and going abroad, knowing that they can earn a decent living without sacrificing their families. Filipino families have gone global. Times have truly changed. The post Change with the times appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SMC power unit investors warned
“Thread cautiously” on San Miguel Power Global Holdings Corp., or SMPGH, an international think tank advised investors after assessing the prospects of the energy unit of the Asian conglomerate. The Detroit-based Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis, or IEEFA, issued the call for caution due to SMPGH’s piling debts in contrast to its earnings. In a review of the dominant power producer, IEEFA said the company’s elevated net debt-to-earnings and potential difficulties meeting financial obligations “create additional risk of devaluation, particularly in the long term.” Likewise, SMPGH investors were cautioned about its mounting challenges in securing favorable funding terms due to its high fossil fuel exposure and high non-call risk for its sizable US dollar-denominated perpetual securities. IEEFA said the backing of parent San Miguel Corporation, one of the most diversified Asian multinationals, offers only “some comfort.” It said SMC’s own elevated debt and “business uncertainties will be critical to monitor” when assessing financial risks to SMGPH. Thus, due to its ongoing fossil fuel expansion, the company needs more strategic options to address financial risks in the near to medium term. However, IEEFA expressed the belief that an immediate material pivot toward low-cost domestic renewable energy represents the best hedge against exposure to imported fossil fuels, prices of which remain on an upswing. A compilation of the financial performance of the SMC units last year showed that only SMGPH tallied a huge loss. By the numbers Food unit San Miguel Food and Beverage Inc. reported a P34.6 billion or 10 percent gain; beer unit San Miguel Brewery Inc., a P31.75 billion profit, up eight percent; SMC Infrastructure a P14.24 billion net income, 110 percent higher; San Miguel Foods, P9.218-billion profit, up nine percent; Petron Corp., P6.697-billion, a nine percent increase; Ginebra San Miguel, P4.547 profit, a nine percent growth; San Miguel Packaging Group, 42 percent growth at P1.648-billion, and SMGPH, P3.134 billion or an 80 percent loss. SMGPH controls 4,719 megawatts or MW of operational power capacity, making it the largest power generation company in the Philippines by installed capacity. As of April 2022, the company owned 21 percent of installed capacity nationally and 28 percent of the Luzon grid, the largest of the three Philippine grids. However, SMC announced a 2050 net-zero target at its annual general meeting in June 2023. IEEFA said, “implementation details are sparse.” SMGPH’s existing generation portfolio is dominated by fossil fuel power plants, which comprise 87 percent of its operational capacity. Hydropower accounts for 12 percent. As of August 2023, the company does not have equity interests in wind or solar assets, IEEFA pointed out. “Without a change in strategy away from dependence on volatile fossil fuels, the company may increasingly find itself locked into financial instability,” according to IEEFA’s study. Fitch Ratings research unit CreditSights issued a similar report last year, saying the rising interest and debt payments of SMGPH may affect the company’s key projects. “Given the worsening financial profile of SMC Global Power, any concerns over its hypothetical default raise fears of triggering a cross-default on SMC,” the report said. The highly leveraged operation of the Asian conglomerate was also a concern raised by Bloomberg Intelligence, which indicated that it may impair the parent’s ability to rescue its subsidiaries in a financial fix. The post SMC power unit investors warned appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
QC fire marshall goes on leave
Quezon City Fire Marshal, Senior Supt. Aristotle Bañaga has gone on leave following a call from Mayor Joy Belmonte for his removal in the wake of several fire incidents this year in his jurisdiction. This was confirmed by Bureau of Fire Protection chief Director Louie Puracan who said Bañaga filed his leave of absence Monday, following a DAILY TRIBUNE report that Belmonte wrote Interior and Local Goverment Secretary Benhur Abalos to recommend his relief and that of his Fire Safety Enforcement Section head, Chief Inspector Dominic Salvacion for their lapses. In her letter dated 14 September, Belmonte told Abalos that the city’s investigation found “serious lapses in the inspection process”of the two officials. “After an investigation into the deadly fire last 31 August in Tandang Sora, wherein 15 lives were lost, it was discovered that serious lapses in inspection processes led to insufficient site inspection for the FSIC (Fire Safety Inspection Certificate) application of business in 2022, and no inspection at all for the same purpose in 2022 and 2023. These, despite knowledge per records that the business transferred from original site in Manresa, this city, into residential area in Pleasant View Subdivision in Tandang Sora, with a declaration of 15 square meters “office only” contractor of clothes, garments and bags as its business area and nature of business,” Belmonte said in her letter. “At the very least the QCFD (Quezon City Fire Department) should have been more circumspect in inspecting the business area and the rest of the premises for signs of unauthorized business activities, Instead, just a cursory look was undertaken in 2021 and no inspection at all in 2022 and 2023.” Belmonte added that the capability and effectiveness of QCFD in responding to fires appears to have decreased significantly wherein the severity of this year’s incidents necessitates a call for a change of leadership in the city fire district. “Said change is crucially needed for the welfare of our citizens given the loss of our trust and confidence with QCFD Col. Banaga and Chief Insp. Salvacion,” the mayor stressed. In response to the letter, Abalos said he personally instructed the BFP to investigate thoroughly and determine the officials’ accountability. Puracan, meanwhile, said that Banaga’s deputy, Supt. Gilbert Arellano, a lawyer, will temporarily assume office to pave the way for an ongoing investigation. Aside from the deadly fire that left 15 people dead, fire incident protocols were also allegedly broken in the aftermath of a blaze that also claimed the life of Retired General George Ancheta, the uncle of QC Council Majority Floor Leader Dorothy Delarmente. Another fire in Culiat also injured seven people and destroyed about 200 homes. The post QC fire marshall goes on leave appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marauders
Wiped out, cleaned out, gone. The gall of it all is what surpasses all understanding. It’s like some people traipsed into one’s garden and started grabbing flowers, trampling on vegetable beds, leaving nothing but evidence of their disdain. One can only deduce matters at this point — about Rozul, of course, that reef in the West Philippine Sea, well within the 200-mile radius of our exclusive economic jurisdiction, “where suspected Chinese militia vessels had been spotted,” as reports said. Who’s the culprit? Is it those who “swarmed” in one day and left behind empty seabeds? Is it the keeper of those areas who came too late? Several reports quote Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, commander of the AFP Western Command, after a forum last weekend: “We noticed coral harvesting in their swarming areas. After they departed, we pinpointed the location and dispatched divers for an underwater survey. They observed that no corals remained — everything was damaged, with debris scattered.” Later, he added, “There’s nothing left in the area.” “They,” of course, refers to Chinese vessels — around 33 in the Rozul area and ten around Escoda Shoal —gathered between 9 August and 11 September. Suspected massive harvesting of corals had left “severe damage,” the Philippine Coast Guard said, “inflicted upon the marine environment and coral reef in the seabed of Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal.” A careless disregard for the environmental effects notwithstanding, the reckless disregard for Philippine rights has left no doubt of the saboteurs’ arrogance. To ravage without compunction, ignoring ongoing disputes, certainly also leaves a warning of dominion. We feel offended, violated, and worried about how the continued loss of habitat for marine life (and corals take decades to grow) will lead to biodiversity loss. When people mess with ocean life, it is also people who will eventually suffer from the adverse effects. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it, yet we see how this continues, with warnings and even protests ignored. While the government moves to address the coral destruction off our shores, it should also force us to act toward protection and propagation. It’s no longer enough to raise a cry. Although there should be no let-up in our call for China to cease encroachment, we must simultaneously fight environmental degradation with positive action. The good news is that all is not lost — not yet, anyway. While the damage to the planet is irreversible, we can mitigate the harm and strive to mindfully live in a way that would no longer rob future generations of a decent life. There are different ways to help restore and rehabilitate the environment, and the government should actively support efforts to restore a semblance of the earth as it once was. All over the world, for example, warriors for the planet work to increase the mangrove cover. For the ocean, there is coral gardening, in which scientific techniques have been proven to grow corals. In our own homes, we can segregate trash, eliminate plastic use, plant our own food, reuse materials, and so on. Admittedly, it isn’t easy to change a lifestyle, but it’s not impossible. While we’re doing all that, let’s keep our fences strong against marauders. The post Marauders appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM challenges newly-promoted PNP officials to be agents of change
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. challenged the newly promoted Philippine National Police star-rank officers to be agents of positive change and help transform the country into the New Philippines that all Filipinos aspire for. In his speech at the oath-taking ceremony in Malacañang, Marcos emphasized the importance of public trust and community engagement in effective law enforcement. The Chief Executive added that there would be no space for police officers who would damage the PNP's reputation. “Mark my words, there will be no room for leniency for those who engage in acts that tarnish the reputation of our police and jeopardize the safety of our people,” Marcos said. “To our new officers here, I urge you to keep your integrity at all times and remain steadfast in your commitment to public service amidst the many challenges your institutions face,” he added. He called on the officers to bring the PNP closer to the communities as the Filipino people expect the police to be capable, professional, and responsive to their needs. Marcos also called on the PNP to be free from any form of corruption and abuse, so it could earn and maintain the trust, confidence, and admiration of the people. "Once again, I must emphasize our zero-tolerance policy for corruption and human rights abuses within the PNP," he said. Marcos also assured the PNP of his administration's full support, especially in terms of boosting their capabilities. "As you perform your duties in securing our people, you and your families can rest assured of the government's full support for your welfare and overall well-being," he said. Marcos ended his speech by challenging the newly promoted officers to be agents of change in the country. "I expect your support in our goal to introduce to the nation the new face of the new Philippines through your personalities—honorable, quick to respond to the call of need, and always ready to be a partner in society towards the New Philippines we aspire for," he said. The post PBBM challenges newly-promoted PNP officials to be agents of change appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
QC fire marshall gone on leave — BFP
Quezon City fire marshal, Senior Superintendent Aristotle Bañaga, has gone on leave following a call from Mayor Joy Belmonte for his removal in the wake of several fire incidents this year in his jurisdiction. This was confirmed by Bureau of Fire and Protection (BFP) chief, Director Louie Puracan, who said that Bañaga filed his leave of absence on Monday, following a piece of news published by Daily Tribune that Belmonte wrote Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos to recommend his relief and Fire Safety Enforcement Section head, Chief Inspector Dominic Salvacion, for their lapses. In her letter dated 14 September, Belmonte told Abalos that the city’s investigation found “serious lapses in the inspection process” by the two officials. "After an investigation into the deadly fire last August 31 in Tandang Sora, wherein fifteen lives were lost, it was discovered that serious lapses in inspection processes led to insufficient site inspection for the FSIC (Fire Safety Inspection Certificate) application of business in 2022, and no inspection at all for the same purpose in 2022 and 2023. These, despite knowledge per records that the business transferred from original site in Manresa , this city, into residential area in Pleasant View Subdivision in Tandang Sora, with a declaration of 15 square meters 'office only' contractor of clothes, garments, and bags as its business area and nature of business,” Belmonte said in her letter. “At the very least the QCFD (Quezon City Fire Department) should have been more circumspect in inspecting the business area and the rest of the premises for signs of unauthorized business activities, Instead, just a cursory look was undertaken in 2021, and no inspection at all in 2022 and 2023.” Belmonte added that the capability and effectiveness of QCFD in responding to fires appears to have decreased significantly wherein the severity of this year’s incidents necessitates a call for a change of leadership in the city fire district. “Said change is crucially needed for the welfare of our citizens given the loss of our trust and confidence with QCFD Col. Banaga and Chief Insp. Salvacion,” the mayor stressed. In response to the letter, Abalos said he personally instructed the BFP to conduct a thorough investigation and determine the officials’ accountability. Puracan, meanwhile, said that Banaga’s deputy, Supt. Gilbert Arellano, a lawyer, will temporarily assume office to pave the way for an ongoing investigation. Aside from the deadly fire that left 15 people dead, fire incident protocols were also allegedly broken in the aftermath of a blaze that also claimed the life of Retired General George Ancheta, the uncle of QC Council Majority Floor Leader Dorothy Delarmente. Another fire in Culiat also injured seven people and destroyed about 200 homes. The post QC fire marshall gone on leave — BFP appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BFP to investigate QC fire marshal, inspector over lapses
Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos on Monday directed the Bureau of Fire Protection to "investigate thoroughly" Quezon City Fire Marshal Aristotle Bañaga and his inspection chief Chief Inspector Dominic Salvacion for lapses committed in the wake of several fire incidents this year in their jurisdiction. Abalos said he has ordered BFP Chief Louie Puracan to investigate thoroughly and determine the accountability of the two fire local officials. Abalos made the move after QC Mayor Joy Belmonte in her letter dated 14 September, copy of which was obtained by Daily Tribune, recommended that the two officials be transferred from their position after their investigation found "serious lapses in the inspection process" of the two BFP officials. "After an investigation into the deadly fire last August 31 in Tandang Sora, wherein 15 lives were lost, it was discovered that serious lapses in inspection processes led to insufficient site inspection for the FSIC (Fire Safety Inspection Certificate) application of business, and no inspection at all for the same purpose in 2022 and 2023. These, despite knowledge per records that the business transferred from original site in Manresa, this City, into a residential area in Pleasant View Subdivision in Tandang Sora, with a declaration of 15 square meters 'office only' contractor of clothes, garments, and bags as its business area and nature of business. At the very least the QCFD (Quezon City Fire Department) should have been more circumspect in inspecting the business area and the rest of the premises for signs of unauthorized business activities. Instead, just a cursory look was undertaken in 2021 and no inspection at all in 2022 and 2023," Belmonte's letter read. "The capability and effectiveness of QCFD in responding to these fires appears therefore to have decreased significantly," Belmonte wrote. The severity of this year's incidents, according to the Mayor, necessitates a call for a change in leadership of the QCFD. "Said change is crucially needed for the welfare of our citizens given the loss of our trust and confidence with QCFD Col. Bañaga and Chief Insp. Salvacion," Belmonte added. She also cited that their evaluation conducted on fire incidents that occurred this year showed an average of more damage, injury, and deaths compared to previous years. Earlier, fire incident protocols were also broken in the aftermath of a blaze in Tandang Sora that claimed the life of retired General George Ancheta, the uncle of QC Council Majority Floor Leader Dorothy Delarmente. Another blaze, a five-alarm fire in Culiat injured seven people and destroyed about 200 homes. “I’ve instructed the BFP to strengthen the training of BFP personnel on fire prevention and suppression. Vigilant and rigorous inspections are the key to mitigating future fire incidents.” Abalos said. He also thanked the Quezon City government for its assistance to those injured or rendered homeless in these recent fires. “Nagpapasalamat tayo kay Mayor Joy Belmonte sa kanyang pakikiramay sa mga nasunugan. Pinahahalagahan natin ang kanyang pakikipagtulungan sa pagtiyak ng kaligtasan ng publiko," the DILG secretary said. The post BFP to investigate QC fire marshal, inspector over lapses appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Belmonte calls for reforms in BFP-QCFD
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Monday called on the Bureau of Fire Protection to undertake reforms in the BFP - Quezon City Fire District (QCFD). Belmonte made the call as results of the probe conducted by the city government and the Quezon City Council revealed lax inspection, backlog in the examination of businesses, and other lapses in the performance of the BFP-QCFD. "The BFP should look into how the BFP-QCFD fulfilled its mandate in the light of tragic loss of lives and properties due to recent fires in the city. Were the BFP-QCFD leadership remiss in their duties? They should hold their personnel accountable if proven guilty of inefficiency," she said. Belmonte earlier sought the relief of two officials from the BFP-QCFD following a review of the performance of the agency prompted by the tragic loss of lives caused by the fire last 31 August in Tandang Sora. An evaluation conducted by the city government of each fire incident that occurred this year showed on average, more damage, injury, and death compared to the previous year. “The capability and effectiveness of the BFP-QCFD in responding to these fires have lessened significantly. The city government recognizes that each fire has its own distinct volatile circumstances. Nonetheless, the severity of this year's incidents necessitates a call for a change in the leadership of the agency. A change is needed for the welfare of our citizens. We look forward to a better performance from the BFP," Belmonte said. The two officials were identified as BFP-QCFD fire marshall, Fire Senior Superintendent Aristotle Bañaga, and the chief of the QCFD Fire Prevention Branch, Fire Chief Inspector Dominic Salvacion. Data from the BFP revealed that from January to August 2023, there were 153 fires recorded in the city, while there were only 219 fires from January to December 2022. With a third of the year left, there have already been eight firefighters and 63 civilians injured compared to only two firefighters and 60 civilians for the entirety of last year. Moreover, there were already 24 deaths in the first eight months of this year while there were 30 from January to December 2022. There were 8,362 individuals or 2,380 families affected by the fires up to August this year, higher than the whole of last year’s record of 7,295 individuals or 2,005 families. “For this reason and to protect the people of Quezon City, I am calling upon the national leadership of the Bureau of Fire Protection to assign to us a new fire marshall for the QCFD and a new inspection head,” Belmonte added. Belmonte also called on the BFP to be more transparent in their own investigation of the Tandang Sora fire. “The BFP has failed to reciprocate the city government’s efforts to exercise transparency. They resisted our calls to be apprised of the progress of their own probe, or to our requests for coordination. We therefore ask the BFP to cooperate fully with the city government as mandated by law, to ensure full transparency and clarity in these investigations. Our people demand more, and the victims and their families deserve nothing less,” Belmonte said. Belmonte earlier ordered the City Legal Department to form a Special Panel of Investigators to probe the incident and if warranted by evidence, to file the appropriate case(s) against pertinent and surviving officers of the business establishment involved in the deadly fire in Tandang Sora. Local government personnel found to be liable after the conduct of the investigation will likewise face administrative and criminal charges. “The city government continues to thoroughly investigate the devastating fire of August 31. It has coordinated with and interviewed its departments, the barangay, the homeowners association, the relatives of the victims, and the survivors, to ascertain the circumstances that brought about this tragedy. We will leave no stone unturned, and we will not spare even our own officials and personnel,” the mayor added. The mayor assured the residents that the city government will continue to beef up the city’s fire prevention measures and efforts. On 14 September, Mayor Belmonte extended financial assistance to the families of the fire victims. Earlier, the city government helped arrange for the cremation of the remains of the victims, among others. The post Belmonte calls for reforms in BFP-QCFD appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The vital role of ASEAN
The ASEAN-UN Comprehensive Partnership is more important than ever. We face tests as far as the eye can see — from the climate emergency to a global cost-of-living crisis, raging conflicts and growing poverty, hunger, and inequalities. All these challenges are aggravated by rising geopolitical tensions. There is a real risk of fragmentation — of a Great Fracture in world economic and financial systems, with diverging strategies on technology and artificial intelligence and conflicting security frameworks. I commend ASEAN for your vital role in building bridges of understanding all over the world. ASEAN has played an extremely important role as a center that convenes all those that, unfortunately, represent the most dramatic divisions in today’s world and these series of summits is a demonstration of that fundamental convening role of ASEAN. And we need it in a world that is increasingly multipolar and that requires strong multilateral institutions to go with it — based on equity, solidarity and universality. I am grateful for your steadfast support for multilateral solutions and your contribution of over 5,000 peacekeepers from ASEAN countries. ASEAN’s convening power, commitment to dialogue and experience in conflict prevention are crucial pillars of stability. Today, tensions remain high from the Korean Peninsula to the South China Sea. I am grateful to ASEAN member states for your pursuit of dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution, rooted in the respect for international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Since we gathered last year, the situation in Myanmar has further deteriorated. Brutal violence, worsening poverty and systematic repression are crushing hopes for a return to democracy. The conflict is exacerbating existing inequalities and vulnerabilities faced by women and girls, including sexual violence, forced marriage and human trafficking. More and more people are crossing borders in a desperate search for safety and protection and the situation is untenable. Over one million Rohingya remain in Bangladesh, in the world’s largest refugee camp. And, regrettably, the conditions for their safe, voluntary and dignified return are not yet in sight. Much more is needed. My call to the military authorities of Myanmar is clear: Free all detained leaders and political prisoners; open the door toward the full restoration of democratic rule. We must also end our assault against the planet. ASEAN ranks amongst the most biodiversity-rich regions — and is highly vulnerable to natural disasters. We can still limit the worst impacts and meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. ASEAN is uniquely positioned to be a leader of an energy transition that is global, sustainable, just, inclusive and equitable. I commend ASEAN member states that are pioneering Just Energy Transition Partnerships like Indonesia and Viet Nam. And I commend all who are accelerating the phaseout of coal and jumpstarting a fair and inclusive renewables revolution. But greater ambition is needed still — along with much greater support. Developed countries must finally deliver on their commitments to developing countries. Resources are also central to rescuing the Sustainable Development Goals. I have called for deep and structural changes to make global frameworks — including the Bretton Woods system — more representative of today’s economic and political realities and also more responsive. Such change will not happen overnight — and I have proposed concrete steps we can take now, including an SDG Stimulus of US$500 billion a year to the benefit of developing countries for them to be able to reach the Sustainable Goals. This and other action would catalyze SDG progress and help developing economies invest in key transitions across energy, food systems, digital, education, health, decent jobs and social protection. I count on ASEAN member states to help raise global ambition in the vital months ahead. And you can always count on my wholehearted support to shape a future of peace and prosperity for the people of Southeast Asia and the world. *** Excerpts from the UN Secretary-General’s remarks at the ASEAN-UN Summit, 7 September 2023. The post The vital role of ASEAN appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Upskill Filipino workers
For the past years, labor has been the country’s biggest and most reliable export that brings in billions of dollars to the Philippine economy every year, according to the Bureau of Investment. As the world becomes more interconnected and interdependent, the Government Academe Industry Network pointed out the need to elevate Filipino talent and ensure that they maintain their competitive advantage on the global stage. Monette Iturralde-Hamlin, president of GAIN, led the call for a meaningful collaboration among the key players and stakeholders to empower the mobilization of Filipino talent during the recent 6th GAIN National Convention at the AIM Conference Center — which focused on the theme “Internalization of Workforce: Global Talent Mobility through International Standards.” “Things are changing so fast. We are making space for a more interconnected and interdependent world, and we need to make sure that Filipinos are prepared to get those jobs that they need to take care of their families and thrive,” she said in her opening remarks. Dr. Jose Cueto Jr., commissioner of the Professional Regulation Commission, explained how the Philippine Qualifications Framework is used to measure skills of Filipino professionals to determine their level of knowledge, skills, and their ability to apply them in the real world. The PQF, according to Cueto, is designed to support academic and worker mobility and to address mismatches on job skills. He also described how the Asean Qualifications Reference Framework can be used in comparison to the country’s own framework to determine how the skills of a Filipino professional measures up to professionals of other countries. However, Cueto admitted that, “Not many organizations in the government, academe, and industry have the mastery of the PQF/AQRF qualifications.” Meanwhile, a highly skilled workforce is one that adheres to international standards, said BOI governor Atty. Marjorie Ramos-Samaniego. “Trends are changing, and new industries developed will change the way we look at the workforce. Our goals and targets might change, but our objective will remain the same: to uplift the ideal that the Filipino workforce is the best in the world,” she added. Compliance with international standards is non-negotiable in industries such as banking and healthcare, said Roderick Danao, chairman of PwC Philippines. He highlighted that with the banking and financial industry hinging on consumer trust, standards ensure that financial transactions are conducted fairly and efficiently. The healthcare sector, meanwhile, is a “complex, dynamic sector driven by demographic changes, technological disruptions, and evolving healthcare needs,” according to Nora Terrado, CEO of Carelon Global Solutions. She noted that Filipinos have already set the standard for healthcare professionals abroad, citing the top performance of Filipino nurses in the US National Council Licensure Examination from 2022 to 2023. The post Upskill Filipino workers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DILG’s BIDA Program rolled out in Zamboanga del Sur
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos led the rollout of the "Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan" (BIDA) Program in Zamboanga del Sur on Thursday morning. The BIDA Program launch was one of the highlights of the 71st Araw ng Zamboanga del Sur celebration at the Mega Gymnasium Provincial Government Complex, Dao, Pagadian City, which Abalos attended as a guest of honor and speaker. In his message before an estimated crowd of 1,500 Zambosurians, the DILG chief highlighted the critical role of local government units (LGUs) and other sectors of society in addressing the drug menace through education, prevention, and rehabilitation to complement the relentless anti-drug operations of law enforcement agencies. “Ang importante habang nanghuhuli ang mga pulis, tayong mga nasa LGU—mga barangay captain, konsehal, mayor, gobernador, bokal—community groups, religious leaders, parents, whole-of-nation approach dapat. Bumaba tayo, tulungan natin ang pulis. It’s not only about supply reduction. But most importantly, it's about demand reduction,” Abalos said. Furthermore, the DILG secretary congratulated the province of Zamboanga del Sur on its 71st Charter Day celebration. He also commended the leadership of Governor Victor J. Yu, who focused his governance through HEARTS or Health, Education and Environment, Agriculture, Roads and Bridges, Tourism, and Security. Abalos ended his message by inspiring local officials to continue heed the call of President Marcos for unity. “Iisang bangka tayo. We are given this opportunity, let's make the most out of it. It's time to make a difference for our province, for our city, and most specially for our country. Wala nang sana ganito, sa ganyan sa Pilipinas, wala na. Panahon natin 'to gawin na natin ang tama at huwag tayong matakot. Magtulungan tayo," he said. Named as one of the best government initiatives in Asia by international award-giving body GovMedia Awards, the BIDA Program has already been rolled out to over 700 LGUs nationwide since it was officially launched in November last year, initiating several activities such as BIDA Fun Runs, Serbisyo Caravans, Zumba sessions, cycling events, workshops, and seminars. Meanwhile, DILG Undersecretary for Local Goverment Marlo Iringan, during the Laging Handa press briefing in Malacañang, said the BIDA Program has been going around the country, in line with the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s continued campaign against illegal drugs with a renewed focus on demand reduction through a whole-of-nation approach. "Iyong nangyaring bike fest sa Bulacan noong nakaraang Linggo ay isa lamang sa napakaraming mga event at activities na pinangunahan ng ating kagawaran, sa pangunguna ni Secretary Benhur Abalos patungkol doon sa flagship program ng ating pamahalaan na 'Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan'," he said. "Nailunsad po natin itong noong nakaraang taon, November actually, at napunta na po tayo sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas at nagkaroon ng bike fest, fun run. At hindi lang po iyon ‘no, napakarami nating mga ugnayan sa iba’t ibang sektor ng lipunan at sa iba’t ibang lebel ng pamahalaan nang sa ganoon ay makuha iyong kanilang suporta sa ating whole-of-nation/whole-of-government approach against illegal drugs," Iringan explained. "Nagawa na po natin sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas at iyan nga ang isa sa mga gagawin pa natin sa mga susunod na araw. Subalit katulad ng nabanggit ko, this is only one of the strategies to generate support against illegal drugs. Nakikipag-ugnayan din po kami halimbawa sa Philippine Basketball Association, sa mga sports association nang sa ganoon suportahan ng mga athletes, na siyang tinitingala/iniidolo ng karamihan sa mga kabataan ‘no, na suportahan itong laban natin sa illegal drugs. Nakikipag-ugnayan kami sa mga iba’t ibang malalaking kumpanya katulad ng SM nang sa ganoon ay magkaroon sila ng initiative or intervention for a drug-free workplace. At iyon na nga po, pati na sa lahat ng mga eskuwelahan, mga unibersidad at mga kolehiyo ay hinihikayat din sila na tumulong ‘no sa laban sa iligal na droga," he added. DILG and Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan partner on BIDA The DILG's BIDA Program has also gained anti-illegal drug advocates among the youth of Cagayan de Oro with the signing of a memorandum of agreement with Xavier University-Ateneo De Cagayan. Abalos said the important role of schools like Xavier University-Ateneo De Cagayan and the church in the whole-of-nation BIDA campaign dwells on the holistic formation of the values of the youth and helping them lead productive lives away from the temptation of illegal drugs. DILG Region X Regional Director Wilhelm M. Suyko, who signed the MOA on behalf of the DILG, said youth involvement is a significant and strategic approach to further strengthen the advocacy of the program. “The good thing about this partnership is that this will also be an opportunity to involve the youth in this campaign. We believe that our students could make a change and that they are our instruments in communicating effectively with the youth as well,” Suyko said. The post DILG’s BIDA Program rolled out in Zamboanga del Sur appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Rice price spike offers preview of climate food disruption
A 15-year high in rice prices, prompted by top exporter India's restrictions on overseas sales, should be a wake-up call on how climate change can disrupt food supplies, experts say. Rice prices jumped 9.8 percent in August, bucking decreases in other staples, the Food and Agriculture Organization said last week. That followed the July decision by India, which accounts for 40 percent of global rice exports, to ban the overseas sale of non-basmati rice. The government cited soaring domestic prices for the staple, caused by geopolitics, the El Nino weather pattern and "extreme climatic conditions." This year is expected to be the hottest in human history, and the impacts of the seasonal El Nino weather pattern could make conditions even harsher. Despite severe flooding in parts of northern India, this August was the country's hottest and driest on record. The monsoon season that brings up to 80 percent of the country's annual rain has been far below normal levels. India's July restrictions followed a decision last September to ban exports of another variety of rice that is a staple in parts of Africa. Up to eight percent of global rice exports for 2023/24 could now be taken out of the market, according to analysis by BMI, Fitch Group's research arm. - Drought fears - For now, the crisis offers an opportunity for India's rivals, including number two and three exporters, Thailand and Vietnam. Both have increased exports this year, with Nguyen Nhu Cuong, an official with Vietnam's agriculture and rural development ministry, touting a "bumper crop" and plans to increase planting. But the dry conditions that tend to accompany El Nino mean smooth sailing ahead is unlikely, warned Elyssa Kaur Ludher, from the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute's Climate Change in Southeast Asia program. "My question is whether they can continue to do this once El Nino comes into force towards the end of this year, when water becomes more scarce," she told AFP. "I think the end of this year and especially the beginning of next year will be very, very tough," she added. A naturally occurring weather phenomenon, El Nino typically lasts nine to 12 months and is expected to strengthen late this year. Even before India's latest restrictions, its effects were boosting rice export prices, according to BMI. And in Thailand, national rainfall levels are currently 18 percent lower than expected for the time of year, the Office of National Water Resources said this month. Late rains could still make up the difference, but the agency said it is "concerned about a drought caused by El Nino." - 'New normal' - The consequence is one of price rather than supply, said Charles Hart, agricultural commodities analyst at Fitch Solutions. "This is not a running out of rice moment," he stressed, noting India's restrictions have not been followed by other exporters. Instead, the situation is likely to force the drawdown of stocks rebuilt after pandemic-era depletions, and prompt importers to seek new deals and impose local limits. Top importer the Philippines this month signed a deal with Vietnam to help stabilize supply, days after announcing a national price cap. For some though, unaffordable prices amount to the same as a lack of supply: less food. "It's not just a food availability issue, but it's also a social stability issue, it's a political issue," said Ludher. The current disruptions should be a wake-up call for policy-makers, she added, with more attention needed to the plight of farmers across various sectors. Climate change can affect productivity, with lower crop yields as temperatures rise, but also increases the likelihood of extreme events like the 2022 Pakistan floods. "Global grain export markets are relatively concentrated, so that kind of extreme weather risk accumulates in a few markets," Hart added. In India, policymakers need to develop better early-warning systems and new planting patterns, said Avantika Goswami, a climate change researcher at the Centre for Science and Environment. "Erratic weather patterns are the new normal," she told AFP. "Now, it's a case of early adaptation. In the long-term, global emissions have to come down." burs-sah/ssy © Agence France-Presse The post Rice price spike offers preview of climate food disruption appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»