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EDITORIAL - Finally, plastic license cards
It says a lot about the quality of governance and ease of doing business in this country that it takes forever just to obtain a plastic driver’s license card......»»
SC allows UN expert to act as friend of the court in Maria Ressa s cyber libel plea
Irene Khan, United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur for freedom of expression and opinion, has been allowed by the Supreme Court (SC) to sit as an "amicus curiae" to the court in the appeal for the cyber libel case of Rappler.com chief executive officer Maria Ressa and former researcher Reynaldo Santos......»»
EDITORIAL — Irresponsible driving
As travel increases this Holy Week, motorists are expressing concern about a road accident this month that penalized an innocent driver. Video footage showed a Toyota Innova traversing the northbound lane of the Skyway Stage 3 on March 10 when a motorcycle moving beyond the speed limit counter-flowed, colliding head-on with the Innova......»»
1 dead, 2 hurt in truck smashup
A trailer truck driver was killed while two others were injured in a collision with a dump truck along Mel Lopez Boulevard in Tondo, Manila on Friday morning......»»
Cebu lampposts case: SC clears DPWH execs, contractor of graft
The Supreme Court acquitted three former officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and a private contractor of graft charges in relation to the installation of allegedly overpriced lampposts during the 2007 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) summit held in Cebu. In a 22-page decision promulgated on Oct. 11, 2023, but made public only.....»»
Myanmar nationals ask Philippines to probe alleged war crimes
Five Myanmar nationals asked the Philippines on Wednesday to investigate alleged war crimes committed by 10 serving or former members of Myanmar's military against the mainly Christian Chin minority. Filipino lawyers representing the Myanmar nationals told reporters they lodged the "landmark" criminal complaint against junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and nine others at the Department of Justice in Manila. They asked prosecutors to open an investigation into alleged war crimes under a Philippine law penalising "crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide, and other crimes against humanity". The five Myanmar nationals are from western Chin state, but now live in Australia, Britain, Canada and India. They were at the justice department in Manila. "This is a landmark suit because this is the very first time that such a case is being brought before the Philippines," Romel Bagares, one of the lawyers, told reporters. Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla said his department would "evaluate" the complaint, which he described as "very novel". "If this is sufficient in form and substance, that's the time when we will require the respondents to answer these complaints," Remulla told reporters. Among the accused is Chin Chief Minister Vung Suan Thang, who is a former military officer. The others are serving members of the military. The complaint alleged that members of Myanmar's military killed a pastor and two church elders in Thantlang town, Chin, in September 2021. It also accused the 10 of "intentionally" directing attacks on churches and the burning of hundreds of houses in the same town between August 2021 and June 2022. They also allegedly blocked relief supplies from reaching people in Chin state in the aftermath of Cyclone Mocha in May. 'Truly historic day' Philippine law allows for the prosecution of war crimes committed elsewhere. One of the stipulations of the law is that the accused must be present in the Philippines. According to Gilbert Andres, another Filipino lawyer representing the Myanmar nationals, if the Philippine justice department were to decide to mount a case against the 10 accused, it could issue subpoenas to Myanmar's Central Authority or go through diplomatic channels. The toppling of Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in a 2021 coup sparked a huge backlash and the military junta is now battling opponents across swaths of Myanmar. Some of the bloodiest fighting has been happening in Christian-majority areas, including in Chin state. "This is a truly historic day," Salai Ling, one of the five complainants and also of the Chin Human Rights Organization, told reporters in Manila. "We are really hoping that with the solidarity and support from the Filipino people and people in the ASEAN region, that we will be able to get some form of justice for the atrocities that our people suffered." Myanmar and the Philippines belong to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The regional bloc's efforts to defuse the Myanmar crisis have been fruitless so far. The Philippines is now the subject of an international human rights probe, with the Hague-based International Criminal Court investigating "possible crimes against humanity" during former president Rodrigo Duterte's deadly drugs crackdown. In July, President Ferdinand Marcos said the Philippines was "done talking with the ICC" but would continue to question the tribunal's jurisdiction. The post Myanmar nationals ask Philippines to probe alleged war crimes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl to UN: Uphold int’l law to keep Indo-Pacific free, open
Adherence to international law by all nations would maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region, the Philippines said Sunday. Speaking on behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York City, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo reiterated that all countries are accountable for maintaining a rules-based global order. “Its present and future rest on the predictability and stability of international law, which safeguards the rights of all states. If multilateralism is to endure, all states must adhere to the rule of law,” Manalo said. “Guided by an independent foreign policy, the Philippines actively works with nations to promote a rules-based international order,” he added. Quoting President Marcos, Manalo stressed that the Philippines is “a friend to all and enemy to none.” The DFA chief also said that the Philippines advocates the “peaceful settlement of disputes, in accordance with international law.” “This has always been our position with respect to the disputes in the West Philippine Sea, inasmuch as we are prepared to defend our sovereignty, sovereign rights and territorial integrity,” he said. “Our Constitution renounces war as an instrument of national policy, adopts the generally accepted principles of international law as part of the law of the land and adheres to a policy of peace, equality, justice, freedom, cooperation, and amity with all nations,” he added. In his speech, the country’s top diplomat also pointed out that the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea is “now part of international law.” China claims the vast South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, with its historic nine-dash line claim, which the Permanent Court of Arbitration invalidated after siding with the Philippines. Seven years after the Tribunal favored the Philippines’ arbitral case against China, the ruling remains on paper as China continues to disregard it by keeping its illegal activities in the West Philippine Sea. For Manalo, all nations must adhere to international law to sustain stability in the Indo-Pacific region. "Adherence to international law contributes to keeping the Indo-Pacific, with ASEAN at the center, free and open and our region stable and peaceful. In line with this, we are guided by the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific,” he said. The post Phl to UN: Uphold int’l law to keep Indo-Pacific free, open appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Trudeau to be star witness in election meddling probe
The Canadian prime minister could be the star witness in his government’s investigation of alleged national election meddling by China, Russia and other countries. Justin Trudeau was asked by reporters in Singapore Friday on the possibility of him testifying in the case, he replied, “Willingly and with very much enthusiasm.” The prime minister, who was coming from the ASEAN Summit in Indonesia, added, “I think it’s important for Canadians to know exactly everything this government has been doing in regards to foreign interference, and to talk frankly about the challenges that we continue to face in our democracies around the world.” His statement came a day after Ottawa named an appeals court judge to lead the inquiry into the allegations surrounding federal elections in 2019 and 2021. Quebec Court of Appeal Justice Marie-Josee Hogue replaces the investigator who resigned in June. Trudeau faced pressure to explain how it first responded to the claims that Beijing sought to subvert Canada’s democratic process. Relations between Ottawa and Beijing hit a new low this year amid accusations of Chinese meddling in those elections and the attempted intimidation of Canadian lawmakers that led to the expulsion of a Chinese diplomat in May. Beijing has called the accusations “groundless” and responded by sending home a Canadian diplomat from the country’s consulate in Shanghai. The reported accusations included secret campaign donations and that Chinese operatives were working for Canadian candidates and lawmakers in an attempt to influence policy. WITH AFP The post Trudeau to be star witness in election meddling probe appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM reaffirms commitment to rules based order in South China Sea
JAKARTA, Indonesia – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. During his intervention in the 26th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) - China Summit here, Marcos reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to the rules-based order in the South China Sea. "The Philippines continues to uphold the primacy of the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as the framework within which all activities in the seas and oceans are conducted," Marcos said. "We once again reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law and peaceful settlement of disputes." Marcos also expressed hope that the two countries can progress in the negotiations for a COC in the South China Sea. "The early conclusion of an effective and substantive COC that is in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS, remains the goal for ASEAN and for China," he said. Marcos' remarks come amid rising tensions in the South China Sea, where China has been asserting its claims over disputed waters. The Philippines is one of several ASEAN countries with overlapping claims with China in the South China Sea. In his remarks during the intervention, Marcos also highlighted the importance of cooperation between ASEAN and China in areas such as trade, investment, and connectivity. He said that such cooperation can help to achieve the goal of making ASEAN the "epicentrum of growth." "The ongoing ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade Negotiations will also encourage stronger ties between ASEAN and China," Marcos said. "It is also our hope that we identify and leverage on complementarities between China's Belt and Road Initiative and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific." Chinese Premier Li Qiang, for his part, claimed that China has been working with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to "preserve regional stability." He asserted that "mutual trust" between the two parties has "grown deeper." "We have been committed to treating each other sincerely, and our political mutual trust has grown deeper," Li said during the ASEAN-China Summit. "No matter how the international situation evolves, China and ASEAN have maintained close exchanges and communication, respecting each other's development path," he said. China, which has emphasized that regional parties should be in charge of resolving disputes like those involving the South China Sea, has stated that "the China-ASEAN cooperation has come a long way" due to their shared "understanding about hardships." Chinese ships obstructed Philippine resupply ships in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone in August by using water cannons. The Hague-based international arbitration court received a complaint from Manila in 2013 against Beijing, but China ignored the proceedings there as well. Beijing has continued rejecting the judgment rendered in that case in 2016, and in July it charged the US with being the "mastermind" behind the Philippines' lawsuit. The post PBBM reaffirms commitment to rules based order in South China Sea appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM: ‘Phl rejects misleading narratives framing disputes in South China Sea’
JAKARTA, Indonesia — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. rejected misleading narratives that framed the disputes in the South China Sea due to geopolitical tension between the United States and China. Marcos made the remarks at the intervention during the 43rd ASEAN Summit Retreat Session this week, as he called on all parties to the disputes in the South China Sea to exercise self-restraint and resolve their differences peacefully. “The Philippines firmly rejects misleading narratives that frame the disputes in the South China Sea solely to the lens of strategic competition between two powerful countries," Marcos said. "This not only denies us our independence, our agency, but it also disregards our own legitimate interests," he added. Marcos also reiterated the Philippines' commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea. He said that the Philippines will continue to uphold freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, in accordance with international law. "We do not seek conflict," Marcos said. "But it is our duty as citizens and as leaders, to always rise and meet any challenge to our sovereignty, to our sovereign rights, and our maritime jurisdiction in the South China Sea." Marcos also called for self-restraint from all parties involved in the South China Sea disputes. He said that actions should be the ultimate measure of their commitment to securing peace and stability in the region. “History will ultimately judge whether the supremacy of the rule of law will prevail, ushering in an era where all nations truly stand as equals, independent and unswayed by any single, outside power,” Marcos said. “The challenge for us remains: we must never allow the international peaceful order to be subjected to the forces of might, applied for a hegemonic ambition. The future of peace rests now on how we, together, face this challenge to that peace,” he added. China asserts control over almost the entire South China Sea, but the international tribunal in The Hague rejected this assertion in 2016, after a case brought by the Philippines in 2013. Despite the tribunal's decision, Beijing has consistently disregarded and downplayed it, maintaining that it possesses an "undeniable" and "historical" right to most of the waters, even as it encroaches on the territories of smaller neighboring countries like the Philippines. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam have all contested China's extensive claims in the South China Sea. The post PBBM: ‘Phl rejects misleading narratives framing disputes in South China Sea’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Digitizing a must — Concepcion
Honing and making micro, small and medium enterprises fully engrossed with digitization is now a must for every country in the ASEAN Region to fully realize the expanding opportunities presented by digital transformation, according to ASEAN-Business Advisory Council Philippines chairperson Joey Concepcion. “The power of digitalization is there; we just have to use it. It’s time that we really focus on the objective of greater prosperity, especially for those at the bottom of the pyramid, using whatever tools we have,” Concepcion said during a panel discussion on ASEAN’s Digital Powerhouse at the Nexus of Connectivity and Transformation in Jakarta, Indonesia on Sunday. “We must enable MSMEs to use digitalization to their advantage. Digital growth is seen to boost cross-border e-commerce by providing MSMEs with access to new markets and is hoped to promote financial inclusion to underserved populations,” he added. Further, Concepcion noted that although the rapid growth of digital adoption in the ASEAN bodes well for the region’s economies, its growth must be inclusive, with MSMEs being crucial to sustainable growth, to fully realize the expanding opportunities presented by digital transformation. “All of these tools are important to uplift the lives of our people. That’s why we are here: how do we solve big problems, especially for those who are at the bottom of the pyramid,” he said, pointing out that four of the 10 countries in the ASEAN have nearly a fifth of their populations still living in poverty. Region’s biggest tech players The session gathered some of the region’s biggest technology players, as well as key stakeholders from leading multinational companies, global financial institutions, and government organizations. The session delved into the development of strategic policies — including financial technology, e-trade, and cross-border trade facilitation. “The power of digital has to be used. The crisis pushed people to use these tools and this is one of the reasons we in the ASEAN BAC Philippines proposed to sign an MoU with each ASEAN country to focus on sectors that will bring development, specifically agriculture and MSMEs,” he said. He also pointed out that digitalization will stand to benefit even the one-man businesses — also known as nanopreneurs — who now have a better chance at succeeding because they have access to marketing tools and digital payment solutions. “We are the big brothers. Unless we embrace the MSMEs in our value chain this is going to take a long time. That is our mission as ASEAN BAC heads, to see to it that greater prosperity is achieved,” he said. Private sector feedback The ASEAN BAC was organized to provide private sector feedback and guidance to boost ASEAN’s efforts towards economic integration. It was said in the discussion that ASEAN has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing Internet market, with a 40 percent annual growth in the value of e-commerce between 2016 and 2021. Further, it is set to become the world’s fastest-growing digital market driven by a growing consumer market and the rapid adoption of social commerce platforms by its population. “This growth must be inclusive to unlock the benefits. It must be used to enable MSMEs,” he said. Phl case cited Concepcion cited the Philippines case as an example of how digital technology has helped MSMEs compete with big corporations and gave birth to a thriving digital economy that was further hastened by the pandemic lockdowns. Aside from Concepcion, other speakers in the session were Sam Myers, deputy trade commissioner for Asia Pacific (Southeast Asia) at the UK Department for Business and Trade; Haslina Taib, CEO of Dynamic Technologies; Yuem Kuan Moon, CEO of Singtel; and Kok Ping Soon, CEO of Singapore Business Federation. Bank of Indonesia Governor Dr. Perry Warijjyo, Temasek Holdings CEO Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara; and Japan External Trade Organization Chairman Ishiguro Norihiko delivered keynote remarks, while ASEAN-BAC Indonesia Policy Manager for Digital Transformation Yohanes Lukiman gave a policy presentation. The post Digitizing a must — Concepcion appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Beijing ‘repeatedly’ reached out to Manila on Ayungin Shoal issue — Chinese envoy
Beijing reached out to Manila to resolve the issue of Ayungi Shoal, which is currently hosting Filipino military personnel through the grounded BRP Sierra Madre, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines Zhou Zhiyong said Monday. According to Zhou, the Chinese side “repeatedly” reached out to its counterparts on the Philippine side to resolve the matter in a “peaceful” manner. “China has repeatedly expressed its willingness to resolve differences with the Philippines through bilateral dialogues,” he said in a media briefing in Quezon City. He noted that at the end of 2021, several rounds of discussion between the Philippines and China were held to manage the “disputes” over Ayungin Shoal, which they call Ren’ai Reef. "Such discussions have led to consensus on resupply missions to the Ren'ai Reef," he said, adding that the agreement had successfully guaranteed stability and tranquility in the area for the entire previous year. “Unfortunately, beginning early this year, the Philippine Government refused to acknowledge and implement the existing consensus and started to take a series of unilateral actions,” he said. “Despite this, the Chinese side suggested earlier this year that the two sides shall discuss measures to strengthen the management of the situation of Ren’ai Reef as early as possible to ensure peace and tranquility in the relevant waters,” he added. He continued: “We also provided the Philippine side with a draft proposal. We are still waiting for the formal response from the Philippine side.” Zhou also maintained that the Philippine government had repeatedly “promised” to remove the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal. “On May 9th 1999, the Philippine Navy tank-landing ship LT-57 intruded into Ren’ai Reef and illegally ‘grounded’, citing the excuse of dilapidation and being stranded or distressed,” he said. “The Chinese side lodged solemn representations immediately, requesting the Philippine side to tow the vessel away. The Philippine side also made an explicit commitment to do so,” he added. “The representations were put on record and the details were well documented. Regarding this, the Philippine media made extensive coverage then.” Last week, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. denied that the Philippine government made such a promise to China. “I’m not aware of any such arrangement or agreement that the Philippines will remove from its own territory its ship, in this case, the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal,” Marcos said in a video message. He also asserted that he is rescinding any commitment should there be an agreement between the two countries to remove the vessel. "And let me go further, if there does exist such an agreement, I rescind that agreement now,” Marcos said. ‘Construction materials’ Zhou also defended the Chinese Coast Guard’s actions during its confrontation with vessels of the Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Guard near Ayungin Shoal last 5 August. He stressed that despite the Philippine government’s failure to honor its alleged commitment, the Chinese side has “always exerted the utmost restraint with a view to maintaining relations with the Philippines and safeguarding regional peace and stability.” “Furthermore, out of humanitarian consideration, the Chinese side has made temporary and special arrangements for the Philippine resupply missions to bring to the ‘grounded’ military vessel food and other daily necessities,” he said. “In those 24 years, the Philippine side has not encountered problems with such humanitarian resupply,” he added. He pointed out that the Philippine move to transport construction materials to the grounded BRP Sierra Madre was the cause of the 5 August incident. “Under such circumstances, the Chinese side was made to react with the necessary actions. China Coast Guard took warning law-enforcement measures and stopped the vessel carrying construction materials,” he said. “I believe you have also noticed that the other Philippine resupply vessel entered the lagoon of Ren’ai Reef and performed its humanitarian resupply mission. This showed the restraint and humanitarian spirit of the Chinese side,” he added. The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, condemned China’s actions, which included the use of water cannon and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels. The agency reiterated that the routine resupply mission of the Philippine Navy was a legitimate and regular activity of the Philippine government. Likewise, the Philippine government said China’s actions were in violation of the relevant provisions of the 1982 UNCLOS, the Award on the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration, the 1972 COLREGS and the 2002 ASEAN-China DOC. The post Beijing ‘repeatedly’ reached out to Manila on Ayungin Shoal issue — Chinese envoy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘I miss the sun’: Journalist detained in China issues rare message
Jailed Chinese-Australian journalist Cheng Lei has described the bleak conditions she faces in detention in a rare public message released on Thursday ahead of the third anniversary of her imprisonment by Beijing. "I miss the sun," reads the message, described as a "love letter" to Australia dictated to officials on a consular visit. "In my cell, the sunlight shines through the window but I can stand in it for only 10 hours a year." The message was shared with Australian news outlets and on the social media platform X by Cheng's partner, Nick Coyle, on Thursday evening. Cheng, a former anchor for Chinese state broadcaster CGTN, is formally charged with "supplying state secrets overseas", though no further details have been supplied. Her detention came as relations between Australia and China cratered, raising speculation it was politically motivated. Last year Coyle said he had serious concerns about a "range of health issues" Cheng faced behind bars. In Thursday's poignant message, the mother of two said she hadn't seen a tree in three years and spoke of her longing for Australia and the outside world. She said her bedding in jail was only taken out to air once a year. "When it came back last time, I wrapped myself in the doona (quilt) and pretended I was being hugged by family under the sun," the message read. "Most of all I miss my children," it ended. Cheng has been detained since August 2020 but was only formally arrested in February 2021. She was tried last March behind closed doors, with even Australia's ambassador to China blocked from entering the court to observe proceedings. The court deferred the verdict and Cheng's sentence, which could extend to life in prison. "She has missed her daughter going to high school. Her parents aren't getting any younger and Lei is their only child. So time is getting more and more precious," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Coyle as saying on Thursday. Last month Australia's foreign minister said she had again raised Cheng's case when she met China's top diplomat Wang Yi on the sidelines of an ASEAN summit in Jakarta. Ties between the two sides have been improving since the election of Australia's center-left Labor government in May last year. Last week, China announced it was removing extra tariffs on Australian barley imposed in 2020 at the height of the dispute. The post ‘I miss the sun’: Journalist detained in China issues rare message appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl ‘promise’ to tow away BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin, not under my Pa’s term – Ejercito
Senator Joseph Victor "JV" Ejercito on Thursday asserted that it was not his father, former President Joseph "Erap" Estrada, who allegedly promised China that the Philippines would remove the BRP Sierra Madre in the Ayungin Shoal. “It was former President Joseph Estrada who ordered that BRP Sierra Madre be placed in Ayungin Shoal in 1999 as a symbol of our sovereignty and to mark our territory,” Ejercito said in a statement. “I cannot recall such a commitment from the Philippine government to remove the Sierra Madre,” he added. Over the weekend, China claimed that the Philippines had promised to tow away the grounded BRP Sierra Madre at the Ayungin Shoal. "The Philippine side has repeatedly made clear promises to tow away the warship illegally 'stranded' on the reef," the Chinese Foreign Ministry said. Ayungin Shoal, also known as Second Thomas Shoal, is located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan and is part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. In a separate statement, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines further supports Beijing's claim that the Philippines promised to tow away the vessel several times. “For instance, in November 1999, the Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines met with Secretary of Foreign Affairs Domingo Siazon and Chief of the Presidential Management Staff Leonora de Jesus to make another round of representations. Many times the Philippines promised to tow away the vessel, but it has taken no action,” the embassy said. “In September 2003, upon the news that the Philippines was preparing to build facilities around that military vessel illegally run aground at Ren'ai Jiao, China lodged immediate representations. The Philippine Acting Secretary of Foreign Affairs Franklin Ebdalin responded that the Philippines had no intention to construct facilities on Ren'ai Jiao and that, as a signatory to the DOC, the Philippines had no desire to and would not be the first to violate the Declaration,” it added. On Wednesday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. denied that the Philippine government made such a promise to China. “I’m not aware of any such arrangement or agreement that the Philippines will remove from its own territory its ship, in this case, the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal,” Marcos said in a video message. He also asserted that he is rescinding any commitment should there be an agreement between the two countries to remove the vessel. "And let me go further, if there does exist such an agreement, I rescind that agreement now,” Marcos said. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Philippines decided in 1999 to deploy the BRP Sierra Madre as a permanent station on Ayungin Shoal in response to China’s illegal occupation of Panganiban Reef in 1995. “The deployment of a Philippine military station in its own areas of jurisdiction is an inherent right of the Philippines and does not violate any laws,” it added. The agency also explained that the Philippine station on Ayungin Shoal was deployed in 1999, years ahead of the conclusion in 2002 of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. “[It] is therefore not a violation of the DOC,” it pointed out. The DFA also reiterated that China Coast Guard’s actions on 5 August which includes the use of water cannon and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels were in violation of the relevant provisions of the 1982 UNCLOS, the Award on the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration, the 1972 COLREGS, and the 2002 ASEAN-China DOC. “The 2016 Arbitral Award is based on UNCLOS and affirms UNCLOS. It is final, legal and binding,” the agency said. The post Phl ‘promise’ to tow away BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin, not under my Pa’s term – Ejercito appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Allied nations tell China: Acknowledge arbitral ruling
The Philippines marked the seventh anniversary of its landmark victory against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration with an outpouring of support from different countries. At least eight nations on Wednesday renewed their support for the 2016 Hague ruling that cemented Manila’s claim to the West Philippine Sea. Diplomats from the United States, Japan, Australia, France, Canada, the United Kingdom, India and the European Union called on China to acknowledge the ruling and stop its “harassment” of claimant states in the South China Sea. On this day, seven years ago, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, the Netherlands favored the Philippines’ claim to the West Philippine Sea, rejecting China’s nine-dash line claim. “We continue to urge Beijing to comport its maritime claims with international law as reflected in the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention; to cease its routine harassment of claimant state vessels lawfully operating in their respective exclusive economic zones; [and to] halt its disruption of states’ sovereign right to explore, exploit, conserve, and manage their natural resources,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement. Miller called on Beijing to end its “interference” with the freedom of navigation and the overflight of states lawfully operating in the region. “We will continue working with allies and partners to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific, one that is at peace and grounded in respect for international law,” he said. Last week, Chinese Coast Guard vessels blocked and carried out “dangerous maneuvers” against Philippine Coast Guard ships in the Ayungin Shoal. Beijing, however, countered Manila’s claim, saying the Chinese maneuvers were “professional and restrained.” It also insisted on its territorial claim over Ayungin Shoal, which it calls Ren’ai Reef, saying the Philippines “intruded” into its waters. Ayungin Shoal is located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan and is part of the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf of the Philippines. ‘Final, legally binding’ Japan also joined the growing pressure on China to recognize the 2016 arbitral ruling which it described as “final and legally binding.” “As the tribunal’s award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the parties to this case, the Philippines and China, are required to comply with the award,” Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshima said in a statement. “The claim by China that it will not accept the award is against the principle of the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, in particular UNCLOS, and undermines the rule of law as a fundamental value of the international community,” he added. According to Hayashi, Tokyo “strongly hopes” that the parties’ compliance with the award will “lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea.” “Upholding and reinforcing the free and open international order based on the rule of law will be to the benefit of all countries, large and small,” he said. He noted that Japan renewed its objection to China’s maritime claims in the South China Sea, saying that these were “inconsistent” with UNCLOS. He also said that it remained “seriously concerned” about the current situation in the area. “Japan will continue working in coordination with ASEAN and other countries concerned to maintain and strengthen the free and open international order based on the rule of law.” ‘Strongly opposes’ Likewise, the European Union “strongly opposes” any “unilateral attempts” to change the peacefully established status of territories by “force or coercion” anywhere in the world, be it in Eastern Europe or the South China Sea. In a forum organized by the international think tank Stratbase ADRI Institute, EU Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Veron reiterated that the Permanent Court of Arbitration laid down very clearly that there is “no legal basis” for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea. “We are one with the Philippines and other international partners in stressing the importance of upholding international law, including UNCLOS and the peaceful settlement of disputes as the basis for peace and stability in this part of the world, as elsewhere,” Veron said in his speech. “Respect for the rules-based international order is at the core of the EU’s approach towards cooperation in the Indo-Pacific,” he added. According to the envoy, the EU is “determined to work with the Philippines and other partners in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific and, more broadly, a free and open international order” based on the rule of law.” “The EU also stands ready to facilitate activities which help build confidence, and prevent and defuse tensions,” he said. Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu echoed the same sentiments, stressing that Canberra wants to see a “peaceful South China Sea where international law is respected and adhered to, and waterways are open for trade.” Yu also stressed that maritime claims inconsistent with UNCLOS are causing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. “Australia is deeply concerned when countries pursue claims or engage in activities that are inconsistent with international law where they undertake activities that are provocative and destabilizing or where they don’t respect the rights and freedoms of others or when they advance their claims by intimidation and coercion,” she said. “UNCLOS provides the comprehensive legal framework for all activities in the oceans and seas and it provides the foundation for peace and security and stability in the maritime domain,” she said. She continued: “Adherence to UNCLOS is vitally important for the region and maritime claims within the South China Sea or elsewhere must be consistent with it.” Outgoing French Ambassador Michèle Boccoz also supports Manila’s position in the West Philippine Sea, saying that Paris is “concerned” by the recent development in the area. “There is indeed no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea. This position was clearly stated in April during the G7 Foreign Ministers’ communiqué,” Boccoz said. “Also last week, together with the Philippines and other like-minded countries, France expressed its concern with regard to the recent developments involving Chinese vessels in the South China Sea,” she added. She also noted that France welcomes the growing support for the 2016 arbitral award while reaffirming its commitment to the Philippines. “In the current context of rising tensions, the relevance of the 2016 Award is gaining stronger momentum, as reflected by the wider support of like-minded nations,” she said. “We welcome this trend and we will continue to show our support. We will continue to walk the talk,” she added. Indian Ambassador to the Philippines Shambhu Kumaran likewise expressed New Delhi’s support for the arbitral award. “Let me take a few minutes to also say that today’s discussion on the arbitral award is a reflection of the broader approach that both India and Asean have taken and our bilateral relations with the Philippines as well,” Kumaran said. “And accordingly, I think in the joint statement, we did recognize the need for adherence to international law and called for the arbitral award to be respected in that context,” he added. The post Allied nations tell China: Acknowledge arbitral ruling appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Japan renews call on China to recognize the 2016 Arbitral Award
Japan on Wednesday joined the growing pressure on China to recognize the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands that cemented Manila’s claims in the West Philippine Sea. In a statement, Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshima called on both the Philippines and China to “comply” with the arbitral award which he described as “final and legally binding.” “As the Tribunal's award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the parties to this case, the Philippines and China, are required to comply with the award,” Hayashi said. “The claim by China that it will not accept the award is against the principle of peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, in particular UNCLOS, and undermines the rule of law as a fundamental value of the international community,” he added. He issued the statement as the nation commemorates the seventh anniversary of the landmark victory, a ruling which China continues to reject by insisting on its historic rights in the West Philippine Sea. On 12 July 2016, the Philippines won the arbitration case it filed against China in the PCA. China, however, rejected the arbitral ruling and stood by its historic rights nine-dash line claim. According to Hayashi, Tokyo “strongly hopes” that the parties' compliance with the award will “lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea.” “Upholding and reinforcing the free and open international order based on the rule of law will be the benefit of all countries, large and small,” he said. Likewise, he noted that Japan renews its objection to China’s maritime claims in the South China Sea, saying that these are “inconsistent” with UNCLOS. He also said that it remains “seriously concerned” about the current situation in the area. “Recalling that the Japan-Philippines Joint Statement issued in February 2023, G7 Hiroshima Leaders' Communiqué in May 2023 and G7 Foreign Ministers' Communiqué in April 2023 underscored the importance of the free and open international order based on the rule of law, Japan reiterates its strong opposition to unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion,” he said. “Japan will continue working in coordination with ASEAN and other countries concerned to maintain and strengthen the free and open international order based on the rule of law,” it added. Last week, Chinese Coast Guards vessels allegedly blocked and carried out “dangerous maneuvers” against Philippine Coast Guards vessels in the Ayungin Shoal. Ayungin Shoal is located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan and is part of the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf of the Philippines. The post Japan renews call on China to recognize the 2016 Arbitral Award appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PNP anti-trafficking efforts hailed
The Philippine National Police’s efforts to curb human trafficking in the country was recently lauded by Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs especially the PNP’s recent rescue operations on certain Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations or POGOs in Metro Manila. PNP chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. expressed his gratitude to Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their expression of appreciation towards the country. “This acknowledgment comes in response to the recent successful police operation conducted by the PNP, which resulted in the rescue of four Singaporean nationals among the 2,000 alleged victims of human trafficking discovered in a POGO establishment that was raided last week,” Acorda said. The PNP chief stressed that they are grateful to Singapore’s Ministry Foreign Affairs of Singapore for its unwavering support and recognition of the Philippine efforts in the spirit of ASEAN solidarity against transnational and cross-border crime. Both the Philippines and Singapore are founding members of the ASEAN Chiefs of National Police, now comprising all national police forces of 10 ASEAN member states. “This operation highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating human trafficking and ensuring the safety of individuals affected by this heinous crime. The successful rescue of the four Singaporean nationals is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the PNP,” Acorda said. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore has officially verified the identities of the four rescued Singaporeans, confirming their status as POGO workers who became victims. “Understanding the importance of providing immediate assistance, consular services were promptly extended to these individuals through the Singaporean embassy in Manila, ensuring their welfare and offering comprehensive support during this challenging time,” said the PNP chief. He added that collaboration between the PNP and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore signifies the commitment of both nations in combating human trafficking and protecting the rights of individuals affected by such crimes. The joint effort demonstrates the collective determination to address transnational criminal activities through international cooperation and mutual support as the PNP reiterates its unyielding resolve to eradicate human trafficking and dismantle illegal operations like the one uncovered in this case. Upholding the principles of the rule of law, Acorda said the PNP is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all individuals, regardless of their nationality, and seeks justice for the victims involved. The post PNP anti-trafficking efforts hailed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hostage
That recent report on how a budget airline earned spectacular revenues from rebookings, cancellation fees, and refunds was insane! Seriously, how could an airline get away with that? How can the owners live down this unconscionable business practice? I myself was a victim of this opportunistic policy by the very same airline — and the revelations and mountain of complaints in the recent Senate hearing all validated this usurious practice. In my case, I tried to rebook a confirmed flight to Dubai days before the scheduled flight because something important came up. The Dubai trip was more for leisure so it could be rescheduled to a later date. So I tried to rebook to around the fourth quarter of the year and even thought of canceling or changing the itinerary to another destination. Alas, my only choice with this airline was to rebook to a later date, but not for the other two options I had in mind. Their app wouldn’t allow it. But when I processed the rebooking via their app, lo and behold, the airline was charging me a “change fee” equivalent to the base fare of the one-way trip to Dubai! Now why should I be penalized when my rebooking would not disrupt their operations since it was being done with enough time to spare? I paid the regular fare, not a promo one, and in rebooking I chose the flight schedule with the same base fare as the original one. Now let’s stipulate that there is a rebooking fee that is charged per industry practice. But the question is, why that exorbitant amount when it was like I was buying a new ticket? I would understand if the change fee was minimal but to charge me double? That is highway robbery! Going back to the question of how this airline can get away with murder — well, this is what happens when oligarchy rules, when we really do not have a choice as consumers. This is the byproduct of a flawed Constitution, which is so damn restrictive about business ownership and investment policies that we the consumer are held hostage, most especially in the basics, such as electricity, water, telephone, Internet, and, yes, transportation. We are held hostage to unfair and onerous concessions in the management of the aforementioned utilities, and it is no wonder that because of such anomalies, we are lagging so far behind our ASEAN neighbors. In a matter of time, Vietnam and Cambodia will completely overtake us in terms of real economic growth and infrastructure development, and if nothing game-changing is done in our socio-economic sphere that would spur real growth and opportunities, then we might as well prepare to fight it out with Timor-Leste for the investment pittance or afterthought. It’s really frustrating, especially when we already managed to climb out of the sinkhole, only to have this deja vu feeling of being dragged down by incompetence and apathy. Insofar as the abusive business practice of the budget airline in question, I do hope something definitive is done for its management to make amends and for consumers to be really protected. What this budget airline is doing is bordering on criminals and, seriously, it should not be allowed to get away with it. Otherwise, we will continue to be hostaged to greed. Mark my word. The post Hostage appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Remulla: Authorities ready for Teves’ possible arrival
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said Negros Oriental 3rd District Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves may possibly arrive in the country today (Wednesday), based on information from "a very reliable source" who “may have access to flight data into the country.” “He’s usually a very reliable source for those who come in and out of the country,” Remulla said. Law enforcement agencies have already been placed on alert "so he can be secured properly." Teves, Remulla clarified, will not be arrested since there is no standing warrant of arrest against him yet. Remulla said the notice issued by the International Criminal Police Organization also known as Interpol could have prompted Teves to consider returning to the country. “He’s already on Interpol notice and things are becoming more difficult for Mr. Teves to go around. That’s what was told to me by my reliable sources." “He will likely return, most probably because it’s difficult to go around the world now when you’re already on Interpol notice and it’s already known in ASEAN (Association of South East Nations) that he’s a subject of designation as a terrorist. So, things have become more difficult, I suppose,” he added. Remulla said he would welcome Teves’ return in case it pushes through, considering that the National Bureau of Investigation is formally filing a complaint against him in connection with the killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and nine others last 4 March. He said Teves' return would give the latter an opportunity to formally answer the cases against him. “It means he can answer the process of law. If a case is filed against him tomorrow then it can be immediately served to him, that can run accordingly and the cases be resolved by the panel of prosecutors based on his counter-affidavit.” Teves, who has denied any involvement in the Degamo killing, has yet to return to the country after going to the United States last 28 February to undergo stem cell treatment. The post Remulla: Authorities ready for Teves’ possible arrival appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM takes up Mary Jane Veloso case with Widodo
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. revealed on Thursday that he asked the Indonesian government to review the case of Mary Jane Veloso, who was convicted as a drug courier. While on his way to Manila from Labuan Bajo, the Chief Executive told the reporters onboard PR001 that he talked briefly about Veloso's case with Indonesian President Joko Widodo during the 42nd ASEAN Summit. However, Marcos said he was not able to discuss the matter thoroughly with his Indonesian counterpart. “I mentioned it but we were not able to discuss it because, as you can imagine, the President was very busy,” Marcos said. “However, at some point when we were near each other, I was able to say that we are still working hard on that case. That was also his response," Marcos added. Widodo told Marcos on the sidelines that Indonesia must adhere to its laws. “The best that we can do I suppose is for the Indonesian authorities to reexamine the case as a favor to the Philippines,” Marcos said. “That was the only thing we talked about, not more than that,” Marcos added. Earlier, the Chief Executive said the Philippine government would continue to work for commutation of sentence or pardon for Veloso. In 2015, Veloso was found guilty of drug trafficking and received a death sentence when 2.6 kilograms of heroin were discovered sewn into her luggage in 2010. Veloso claimed innocence and said the luggage was provided to her by her recruiters, Maria Cristina Sergio and Julius Lacanilao. During Marcos Jr.'s three-day state visit to Indonesia last year, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo made a formal request to his Indonesian counterpart for executive clemency to be granted to Veloso. The post PBBM takes up Mary Jane Veloso case with Widodo appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»