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Remove the chaff from the grains
Other than the questioned selling of the buffer stock of rice to traders, what’s happening at the National Food Authority (NFA)? With 132 of around 2,000 NFA officials and employees all around the country suspended for six months without pay, this agency attached to the Department of Agriculture (DA) is struggling to stay relevant in the over-all schemes of the government on food security......»»
Canino is Olympiad bound
It was sealed by an 83-move draw with Woman FIDE Master Cherry Ann Mejia of a Sicilian in the 10th and penultimate round of the Philippine National Women’s Chess Championship at the Malolos City Hall in Bulacan......»»
Unmask NFA exec blocking documents – Laurel
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. is trying to unmask the official of the National Food Authority (NFA) who was allegedly blocking the release of documents to the Office of the Ombudsman......»»
DA chief orders transfer of suspended NFA supervisors’ authority
The transfer of authority of suspended warehouse supervisors of the National Food Authority has been ordered by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. yesterday as NFA facilities remain closed amid the suspension order of the Office of the Ombudsman......»»
Bong Go shows full support to Filipino athletes in 19th Asian Games
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, articulated his deep sense of pride for Filipino athletes participating in the 19th Asian Games being held in Hangzhou City, China, from 23 September to 8 October. The senator personally traveled to China to show his full support for the Philippine delegation early this week. He also attended live competitions, including the recent match between Gilas Pilipinas and Iran at Zijingang Gymnasium, Zhejiang University on 3 October. “Nakapanood din tayo ng ilang live competitions, gaya na lang ng nakaraang laban ng Gilas Pilipinas kontra sa Iran," he said. “Masarap talaga ang pakiramdam bilang isang Pilipino dahil muling nagwagi ang pambato natin sa basketball na Gilas Pilipinas,” he shared. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, expressed his appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to the athletes, coaches, national sports associations and staff, as well as the Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission and other agencies who worked hard to support the Philippine delegation. "Bilang chair ng Senate Committee on Sports, taus-puso kong pinupuri at pinasasalamatan ang mga manlalaro nating ibinibigay ang lahat para itaas ang bandera ng Pilipinas sa ginaganap na kumpetisyon," he said. Meanwhile, Go also congratulated Gilas Pilipinas for their historic win over China in the semifinals on October 4, which secured their spot in the gold medal match against Jordan. He praised Justin Brownlee for his clutch performance that led the team to a stunning comeback from a 20-point deficit. The senator also expressed his excitement for the upcoming gold medal match between Gilas Pilipinas and Jordan. He said he will be cheering for the team as they aim to win the country’s first-ever Asian Games gold in basketball. The match is scheduled for 6 October. Go then lauded jiu-jitsu fighter Margarita "Meggie" Ochoa for winning the second gold medal for the Philippines on 5 October. Ochoa defeated Balqees Abdulla of the United Arab Emirates in the final match of the women's –48 kg division. She joined pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena as the country's gold medalists in this edition of the Asian Games. “Samantala, ang boxer na si Eumir Marcial ay pasok na rin sa Asian Games finals matapos niyang ma-knockout ang Syrian boxer na si Ahmad Ghousoon sa men's 80kg weight class nitong October 4. Dahil dito, haharapin ni Eumir sa finals si Tanglatihan Tuohetaerbieke ng China para sa gold medal. Pasok na rin si Eumir sa 2024 Paris Olympics,” Go also mentioned. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go has also been a strong advocate for increased funding for sports programs. He revealed that last year's proposed budget for the Philippine Sports Commission was approximately P200 million. However, he pushed for an additional P1 billion, thereby significantly enhancing the financial support for athletes in international competitions. "Dahil dito, nakapagbigay tayo ng pinansyal na suporta para sa mga atletang lumahok sa mga international competitions," he added. This move paved the way for the provision of financial support for athletes participating in international competitions, including the recent 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia and the ongoing Asian Games in China. Go also emphasized the importance of grassroots sports development, saying, “Tinututukan din natin ang grassroots sports development upang mahubog ang mga kabataan nasaan man sila sa bansa na nagnanais na sumabak sa mga pambansa at pandaigdigang palaro.” In line with this, he highlighted his role as the author and co-sponsor of RA 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports in New Clark City, Tarlac. "Ang NAS ay nagbibigay ng de-kalidad na edukasyon at sports training sa mga batang may potensyal na maging world-class athletes," he added. Additionally, Go filed SBN 423, or the Philippine National Games (PNG) Act, to institutionalize a national platform for athletes, especially the youth, to showcase their talents. "Sa pamamagitan ng PNG, mas maraming talento ang mabibigyan ng pagkakataon na makilala at mapabilang sa ating mga national team," he said. The senator also continues to support the implementation of sports clinics, community leagues, and the provision of sports equipment in rural areas. "Sabi ko nga palagi, ‘get into sports and stay away from drugs!’" he advised. Go called on all Filipinos to continue supporting and praying for all athletes competing in the Asian Games and other competitions. "Ang kanilang tagumpay ay tagumpay ng buong sambayanang Pilipino! Laban, Pilipinas! Ipakita natin ang puso ng Pilipino na lumalaban hanggang dulo!" he exclaimed. "Go, go, go for the gold!" he cheered. As of 5 October, the Philippines has two golds, one silver, and nine bronze medals in the ongoing Asian Games. The post Bong Go shows full support to Filipino athletes in 19th Asian Games appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Karate’s Alforte wins Asiad bronze
The Philippines has brought home its 10th bronze medal in the Hangzhou Asian Games courtesy of karateka Sakura Alforte......»»
SBG rallies support for Filipino athletes in 19th Asian Games
Senator Bong Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, recently expressed his full support for Filipino athletes participating in the ongoing 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou City, China. "Suportahan natin ang mga kababayan nating sumasabak sa kasalukuyang 19th Asian Games sa Hangzhou City, China," he said in a statement upon arriving in China to show his personal support to the Philippine delegation. “Bilang chair ng Senate Committee on Sports, taus-puso kong pinupuri at pinasasalamatan ang mga manlalaro nating ibinibigay ang lahat para itaas ang bandera ng Pilipinas sa ginaganap na kompetisyon. Manalo man o matalo, ang importante ay magkaisa tayo para sa ating mga atletang Pilipino!” added the senator. "Our unity is the best form of moral support to inspire our competing athletes to give their best. Let us all rally behind them as they continue to bring glory to our country. Laban Pilipinas! Ipakita natin ang puso ng Pilipino na lumalaban hanggang dulo!" he said. As of 2 October, the Philippines has won one gold, one silver, and eight bronze medals at the Games so far. The country's lone gold medal was won by Ernest John Obiena in Athletics, specifically in the men's pole vault event. Arnel Mandal added a silver medal to the tally in the men's 56kg wushu competition. The bronze medalists include Patrick King Perez in Taekwondo's men's individual poomsae, Jones Llabres Inso in Wushu's men's taijiquan/taijijian all-around, Gideon Fred Padua in wushu's men's 60kg, and Clemente Tabugara Jr in wushu's men's 65kg. In Tennis, Alexandra Eala secured a bronze in Women's singles and another bronze in Mixed doubles alongside Francis Casey Alcantara. Eleven Ando also captured bronze in the women's weightlifting 64kg division. Rounding out the bronze medalists is Patrick Bren Coo in Cycling BMX racing for Men. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has strongly advocated for increased funding for sports programs under the Philippine Sports Commission, particularly in support of athletes competing in international competitions this year. "During the budget deliberation last year, ang ipinasa po na budget ng PSC more or less about P200 million. Ako po mismo sa Senado bilang inyong chairman po ng Committee on Sports and as vice chair ng Committee on Finance, isinulong ko talaga na madagdagan po ng P1 billion po ang pondo ng Philippine Sports Commission," he said. This move secured financial support for athletes participating in international competitions, including the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia and the current Asian Games in China. He disclosed an allocation of P50 million through the PSC for the Asian Games, along with P30 million specifically for Asian para-games. To promote greater inclusivity and equality in sports, Go also proposed Senate Bill No. 2116, which aims to amend Republic Act No. 10699, also known as the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act. The bill seeks to provide enhanced financial incentives and benefits for para-athletes who represent the Philippines in international competitions. He emphasized the need for increased incentives for para-athletes, stating, "Sana po’y ma-increase naman rin po ang kanilang incentives na natatanggap dahil ‘yung honor po na dala nila sa ating bayan, pareho naman po ‘yong gold, silver, bronze at pinaghirapan rin po nila." In line with his advocacy for grassroots sports development, Go also championed the National Academy of Sports, a fully operational institution located in New Clark City in Tarlac which was enacted into law that he authored and co-sponsored. Go is also prioritizing the institutionalization of the Philippine National Games as a platform to scout and recruit athletes for the national pool. He filed SBN 423, or the proposed PNG Act, which seeks to create a nationwide platform for athletes, particularly the youth, to display their abilities. The Asian Games is being held from 23 September to 8 October. The event was originally scheduled for 2022 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The post SBG rallies support for Filipino athletes in 19th Asian Games appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go joins Asian Games send-off; renews advocacy for athletes’ welfare
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go recognized athletes, coaches, and sports officials for their contributions to Philippine sports and their crucial roles in representing the nation on the international stage, during the send-off ceremony on Monday, 18 September, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, for Filipino participants in the 19th Asian Games and 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. “Today, we gather here not only to celebrate the excellence of our athletes but also to bid them the best of luck as they embark on a journey to represent our great nation at the 19th Asian Games and 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China," said Go. Go took the opportunity to shed light on his proposed Senate Bill No. 2116, which aims to amend Republic Act No. 10699, also known as the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act. "This bill which I authored carries the potential to bring about positive change in the lives of our athletes, particularly our para-athletes," he said. Go emphasized the need to increase the incentives for para-athletes, stating, "Sana po’y ma-increase naman rin po ang kanilang incentives na natatanggap dahil ‘yung honor po na dala nila sa ating bayan, pareho naman po ‘yong gold, silver, bronze at pinaghirapan rin po nila." The proposed measures seek to upgrade the incentives for para-athletes. This bill intends to provide equal opportunities and recognition to all athletes, thereby promoting inclusivity and diversity in sports. "The heart of this legislation is inclusivity and equality. It aims to elevate or increase the incentives for our para-athletes," he mentioned. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance said he continues to advocate for additional budget for sports programs under the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC). "During the budget deliberation last year, ang ipinasa po na budget ng PSC more or less about P200 million. Ako po mismo sa Senado bilang inyong chairman po ng Committee on Sports and as vice chair ng Committee on Finance, isinulong ko talaga na madagdagan po ng P1 billion po ang pondo ng Philippine Sports Commission," he said. He revealed that during the budget deliberations last year, he sponsored and successfully secured financial support for athletes participating in international competitions such as the 2023 Southeast Asian Games, which took place in Cambodia, and the forthcoming Asian Games in China. He also disclosed the allocation of P50 million through the PSC for the Asian Games, along with P30 million specifically for Asian para-games. Go also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector in achieving sports excellence. "’Pag nagsama ang gobyerno at pribadong sektor, walang imposible.” Meanwhile, in his speech, the senator also touched on the state of sports facilities in the country, emphasizing the need for comfortable training grounds for athletes. "Ako, sa abot ng aking makakaya ay tutulong po ako sa ating mga sports program ng ating bansa," he assured. In line with his focus on grassroots sports development, Go also spoke about the National Academy of Sports (NAS), a fully operational institution located in New Clark City in Tarlac. "Ngayon po pwede na pong mag-aral at the same time mag-training, training at the same time mag-aral diyan po sa National Academy of Sports," he said. This initiative aims to ensure that athletes do not have to sacrifice their education for their sports careers. Former president Rodrigo Duterte signed RA 11470 in June 2020, which provides for the establishment of the NAS System and its main campus. Go was an author and co-sponsor of the measure. Go is also prioritizing the institutionalization of the Philippine National Games (PNG) as a platform to scout and recruit athletes for the national pool. He filed SBN 423, or the proposed PNG Act, which seeks to create a nationwide platform for athletes, particularly the youth, to display their abilities. During the ambush interview, Go also emphasized the importance of grassroots programs in encouraging youth to engage in sports and lead a healthy lifestyle. "Grassroots program, it's one way na ma-e-engganyo natin ang ating mga kabataan to get into sports, stay away from drugs, and to keep us healthy and fit," he said. He further elaborated on the connection between sports and health, saying, "Malaking bagay na fit tayo. Ang importante rin sa akin bilang chairman ng Senate Committee on Health, dalawa po 'yan. Importante sa akin ang sports at health. Magka-connect ang dalawang ito dahil para sa akin, kapag fit ka, healthy ka. Pangalagaan po natin ang kalusugan ng bawat isa. Katumbas ng kalusugan ay buhay ng bawat Pilipino." Toward the end of his speech, Go expressed his gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his unwavering support for Filipino athletes. "Salamat po mga athletes. And of course, gusto ko rin pong pasalamatan ang suporta po sa atin ng ating mahal na Pangulong Bongbong Marcos sa suporta niya sa SEA Games, sa Asian Games, at sa lahat pa po ng future competition," he said. Go likewise extended his thanks to PSC Chairman Dickie Bachmann, Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham Tolentino, and the Philippine Paralympic Committee President Michael Barredo for their ongoing support and contribution to the athletic community. He likewise thanked the athletes, para-athletes, and coaches for their dedication and sacrifices in training. "Athletes, para-athletes, coaches salamat po sa inyong lahat, sa inyong sakripisyo sa pagte-training. Alam kong ito na po ‘yung panahon na inaantay natin," Go said. As the athletes prepare for their journey to Hangzhou, China, Go assured them of his full support. "To our athletes, I know that we stand with you every step of the way. We believe in your potential, and we are confident that you will make our country proud on the international stage," he concluded. The upcoming Asian Games will be held in Hangzhou, China, from September 23 to October 8. The event was originally scheduled for 2022 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. See more photos here: The post Bong Go joins Asian Games send-off; renews advocacy for athletes’ welfare appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Billionaire US collectors to return ancient artefacts to Cambodia
A billionaire family in the United States will return more than 30 looted ancient artefacts to Cambodia after agreeing it "wrongfully possessed" the treasures, the Cambodian government said Wednesday. Years of civil war followed by the genocidal Khmer Rouge rule saw historical sites looted with near-impunity in Cambodia, which is famed for its Angkor Wat temple complex. Many of the pieces are thought to date back to the Khmer Empire, a once-mighty dynasty that sprawled across much of modern-day Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos between the ninth and 15th centuries. A trove of stolen artefacts has been sent back to Cambodia in recent years from Western museums and private collectors. Now, 33 items from the Lindemann private collection will be "voluntarily" returned to Cambodia, its ministry of arts and culture said Wednesday. The move "sets an excellent and proper example for other museums and private collectors... to follow and return our national treasures," Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona said. The government did not say when the items will arrive in Cambodia. They include a reclining Vishnu and Ardhanarishvara sculpture -- believed to be from the remote northern ancient city of Koh Ker -- which witnesses say was looted in the 1990s, according to the official statement. "Having purchased these items from dealers that we assumed were reputable, we were saddened to learn how they made their way to the market in the United States," The New York Times quoted the Lindemann family as saying in a statement. Last month, the National Gallery of Australia said it will return three sculptures to Cambodia after an investigation found they were likely to have been "illegally exported". The bronze sculptures from the 9th-10th century were bought for $1.5 million in 2011 by British art dealer Douglas Latchford, who was later "convincingly implicated in the illegal trade of antiquities", the gallery said. The post Billionaire US collectors to return ancient artefacts to Cambodia appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl seeks stronger alliance with Vietnam
The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, has expressed its intent to forge stronger maritime cooperation with Vietnam in the South China Sea, where both countries are claimant states. DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo revealed this Tuesday in his speech before the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam. “Our geographies and status as major littoral and claimant states in the South China Sea make maritime cooperation a vital point of interaction between our two countries, as economic and security partners. As in centuries prior, this body of water connects our peoples, despite some differences,” Manalo said. “Beyond its strategic significance, the South China Sea is the lifeblood of millions of Filipinos and Vietnamese people who depend on the sea for livelihood,” he added. Manalo stressed that as maritime nations, the Philippines and Vietnam should prioritize having safe and secure seas and sound marine ecosystems as integral to the future of their citizens and the region. The DFA official is on a four-day official visit to Vietnam for the 10th Philippines-Vietnam Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation, three years after the 9th Philippines-Vietnam JCBC was held in Manila in 2019, attended by then-Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh. Given the previous joint marine research expeditions of the Filipinos and Vietnamese scientists in the 1990s, Manalo said the two countries “must press further on in exploring novel modes of cooperation in maritime safety, search and rescue, marine scientific research, and marine environmental protection.” “Achieving maritime security is a powerful impetus for our Strategic Partnership. Through the Philippines-Vietnam Joint Permanent Working Group on Maritime and Ocean Concerns, we discuss challenges and explore joint initiatives for the effective management of our competing claims in this area, with the overarching goal of preserving regional peace and stability,” he pointed out. He also noted that the two nations also benefit from the rules-based order which he described as the “bedrock of peace and prosperity” in the South China Sea, a shipping passage for an estimated $5.3 trillion worth of trade. “Our Strategic Partnership must affirm that we are invested in keeping the seas open and free for the enjoyment of our peoples and that disputes must be managed and resolved peacefully in accordance with international norms and laws, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as well as the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea,” he said. The DFA chief is referring to the 2016 arbitral ruling that favored the Philippines’ claims in the West Philippine Sea, which is part of the larger South China Sea. However, China, which claims almost the entire South China Sea, continued to ignore the arbitral ruling, and insists on its nine-dash line claim. In a bid to reinforce its claim in the oil and natural-gas-rich region, the Philippine government started calling that portion of the South China Sea as the West Philippine Sea in 2012. The post Phl seeks stronger alliance with Vietnam appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl wants stronger maritime cooperation with Vietnam
The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, has expressed its intent to forge stronger maritime cooperation with Vietnam in the South China Sea, where both countries are claimant states. DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo asserted this on Tuesday in his speech before the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam in Vietnam. “Our geographies and status as major littoral and claimant states in the South China Sea make maritime cooperation a vital point of interaction between our two countries, as economic and security partners. As in centuries prior, this body of water connects our peoples, despite some differences,” Manalo said. “Beyond its strategic significance, the South China Sea is the lifeblood of millions of Filipinos and Vietnamese people who depend on the sea for livelihood,” he added. He continued: “As maritime nations at the heart of this seascape, it is a given that we consider safe and secure seas and sound marine ecosystems as integral to the future of our peoples and our region.” Manalo is currently on a four-day official visit to Vietnam for the 10th Philippines-Vietnam Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation, three years after the 9th Philippines-Vietnam JCBC was held in Manila in 2019, attended by then-Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh. Given the previous joint marine research expeditions of the Filipinos and Vietnamese scientists in the 1990s, Manalo said, the two countries “must press further on in exploring novel modes of cooperation in maritime safety, search and rescue, marine scientific research, and marine environmental protection.” “Achieving maritime security is a powerful impetus for our Strategic Partnership. Through the Philippines-Vietnam Joint Permanent Working Group on Maritime and Ocean Concerns, we discuss challenges and explore joint initiatives for the effective management of our competing claims in this area, with the overarching goal of preserving regional peace and stability,” he pointed out. He also noted that the two nations also benefit from the rules-based order which he described as the “bedrock of peace and prosperity” in the South China Sea, a shipping passage for an estimated $5.3 trillion worth of trade. “Our Strategic Partnership must affirm that we are invested in keeping the seas open and free for the enjoyment of our peoples, and that disputes must be managed and resolved peacefully in accordance with international norms and laws, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as well as the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea,” he said. The DFA chief is referring to the 2016 arbitral ruling that favored the Philippines’ claims in the West Philippine Sea, which is part of the larger South China Sea. However, China, which claims almost the entire South China Sea, continues to ignore the arbitral ruling, insisting on its nine-dash line claim. In a bid to reinforce its claim in the oil and natural-gas-rich region, the Philippine government started calling that portion of the South China Sea as West Philippine Sea in 2012. Similar to the Philippines, Vietnam has overlapping claims with China over the Paracel and Spratly islands, which remain the main point of contention between the two countries. According to Manalo, until the resolution of these disputes, the Philippines and Vietnam “share a distinctive responsibility in working to achieve a substantive and effective Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, and seeing to its conclusion at the earliest opportunity.” The post Phl wants stronger maritime cooperation with Vietnam appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DFA chief visits Vietnam, Laos for stronger bilateral ties
The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday announced that DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo is visiting Vietnam and Laos to review current relations and explore ways to strengthen bilateral ties with the two countries. In a statement, the DFA disclosed that Manalo will travel to Hanoi from 31 July to 3 August for the 10th Philippines-Vietnam Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation as he and his counterparts are set to discuss areas of cooperation such as defense, maritime, economic and people-to-people ties. Manalo is also slated to speak at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam with the theme, “Philippines-Vietnam Strategic Partnership in the Age of Change.” To recall, the 9th Philippines-Vietnam JCBC was held in Manila in 2019, attended by then-Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh. The post DFA chief visits Vietnam, Laos for stronger bilateral ties appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DFA’s Manalo off to Vietnam, Laos to strengthen bilateral ties
The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday announced the visit of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo to Vietnam and Laos to review current relations and explore ways to strengthen bilateral ties with the two countries. In a statement, the DFA said Manalo will travel to Hanoi from 31 July to 3 August for the 10th Philippines-Vietnam Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation. Manalo and his Vietnamese counterparts are set to discuss areas of cooperation such as defense, maritime, economic and people-to-people ties. He is also slated to speak at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam with the theme, “Philippines-Vietnam Strategic Partnership in the Age of Change.” The 9th Philippines-Vietnam JCBC was held in Manila in 2019, attended by then-Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh. The DFA chief will then travel to Vientiane for the 2nd Philippines-Lao PDR JCBC on 3-5 August, where he will take stock of the current Philippines-Lao PDR relations and explore ways to expand cooperation. He will also engage with the diplomatic community through his talk at the Institute of Foreign Affairs, entitled “Closer Together: People at the Center of Philippines-Laos Relations.” The first Philippines-Lao PDR JCBC was also held in Manila last 2017, attended by then DFA Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano and Lao Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith. According to the DFA, the JCBC is the primary mechanism that the Philippines has with both Vietnam and Laos that provides an opportunity to comprehensively discuss bilateral relations, as well as various regional and global issues. The post DFA’s Manalo off to Vietnam, Laos to strengthen bilateral ties appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New jail chief to follow ‘BJMP Plan 2040’
The incoming 10th Chief of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology on Tuesday said he will continue working on the BJMP’s J.A.I.L. Plan 2040, the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s “Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan” Program, and the Marcos administration’s Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. BJMP J.A.I.L. Plan 2040 stands for Journey for Advancement Innovation and Long-term Development Plan 2040. Jail director Ruel Rivera was appointed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Monday evening. In his new role as BJMP chief, Rivera said he is committed to the BJMP’s mandate of providing secure, reformation-oriented, and well-managed jail facilities across the country. Rivera said he will work closely with BJMP personnel, stakeholders, and partners to uphold the BJMP commitment to professionalism, integrity and service excellence. Rivera will be leading the BJMP’s 20,813 personnel in taking care of 126,606 persons deprived of liberty confined in 479 jails and with a nationwide congestion rate of 365 percent. A member of PATNUBAY Class of 1995, Rivera received his degree in Public Safety from the Philippine National Police Academy. He pursued a Master’s in Public Administration at Batangas State University and acquired Doctorate units in Philosophy on Educational Management at the University of Rizal System. The Daily Tribune learned that throughout Rivera’s career, the new BJMP chief has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by the Jail Bureau. He played a vital role in implementing innovative programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the BJMP’s operations and the rehabilitation of PDL. In his 28 years in public service, Jail Director Rivera brings a distinguished career in jail management to this position. With his years of experience in various capacities within the BJMP, he displayed exemplary dedication and commitment to the bureau’s mission of ensuring safe and humane custody of PDL. He never shied away from being deployed to various regional offices as a staff officer, Regional Chief of Directorial Staff and Assistant Regional Director, until his eventual ascent to the seat of the Regional Director of BJMP-MIMAROPA from 2013 to 2014. Rivera also became the NHQ’s Chief of the Finance Service Office, Director for Investigation and Prosecution, Director for Logistics, and Director for Comptrollership, before joining the BJMP’s Command Group, the decision-making body of the Jail Bureau, serving as the Chief of Directorial Staff in 2017, Deputy Chief for Operations in 2018, Deputy Chief for Administration in July 2019, and Acting Chief, BJMP on March 27, 2023. Rivera replaced General Allan Iral who optionally retired from the service at the age of 54 after reaching the maximum tour of duty of four years as BJMP chief last June 23, 2023. The post New jail chief to follow ‘BJMP Plan 2040’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go visits Cambodia, supports Filipino athletes participating in SEA Games
Senator Bong Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, visited Cambodia and showed his support for the Filipino athletes competing in the Southeast Asian Games, together with his colleagues Senate President Miguel “Migz” Zubiri and Senator Francis “Tol” Tolentino, among other officials, this weekend. A known advocate for Philippine sports, Go remarked that the visit to Cambodia was aimed at boosting the morale of Filipino athletes and showing them that they have the full support of the Philippine government. Go also took the opportunity to encourage the athletes to give their best in the competition and to bring home medals for the Philippines. He reminded them that they are not only representing themselves but also the entire nation and that their performance will inspire young Filipinos to pursue their dreams in sports. “Andito po kami ni SP Migz (at) Senator Tolentino, full force po ang Senado to support our athletes. As Chair po ng Committee on Sports, full support po ako palagi sa lahat ng sports. We’re here to support our athletes,” highlighted Go in an ambush interview on Friday, 12 May. “Sana po ay humabol tayo. Kilala naman po ang Pilipino na lumalaban. Pusong Pinoy po yan. Go Philippines! Go, go, go for gold!” encouraged Go. The SEA Games is a multi-sport event that takes place every two years, with athletes from 11 Southeast Asian countries participating in various sports competitions. The SEA Games opened last 5 May and it will run until 17 May. During their visit, the senators met with Filipino athletes and coaches and emphasized the importance of sports in promoting unity and understanding among nations. As of 13 May, 11:00 pm, the Philippines has bagged 37 gold, 64 silver, and 77 bronze medals. “Hopefully, makahabol pa rin tayo sa target na gold medals natin. I'm here to support our athletes as Chairman po ng (Senate) Committee on Sports and to boost their morale. Laban lang tayo. Importante (may) pusong Pinoy tayo – talagang lumalaban hanggang dulo. Pakita natin ang kakayahan natin,” expressed Go in an ambush interview during the events on Saturday, 13 May. “Mga atleta, kayo ang inspirasyon ng mga kabataan. Laban lang tayo. Sa mga athletes, goodluck sa inyo (lalo na) yung may mga laban pa sa finals. Goodluck po sa inyong lahat... Dalhin natin ang malaking karangalan para sa ating mga kababayan,” he encouraged. Go then reassured that he will continue working with sports officials and concerned government agencies to strengthen the development of sports in the country and also provide more resources to ensure that Filipino athletes can compete at the highest level. Go added that sports can play a crucial role in promoting health and wellness, fostering unity and camaraderie, and contributing to the economic growth of the nation. He also cited the role of sports in honing the youth and instilling values such as discipline in order to be productive members of society and keeping them away from vices like illegal drugs. For this reason, he sponsored and defended additional funding for the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) during its 2023 budget deliberation, particularly for grassroots sports development and in support of athletes joining international competitions. “Gaya po noon, full support po ako sa ating mga atleta. In fact, ang na-aprubahan po na proposed budget sa PSC noon ay more or less PhP200 million lang. Ako po ang nagsulong na madagdagan po ng PhP1 billion ang (2023) budget po ng PSC para po sa grassroots program at para po suporta sa ating mga atleta nagko-compete po sa SEA Games, Asian Games and even sa Olympics,” Go cited in an ambush interview after his visit to Tondo, Manila on May 10. “Napakaimportante po itong tulong sa ating mga atleta. Kailangan po ng tulong ng gobyerno sa mga atleta at tulong rin po ng pribadong sektor. Kapag nagsama po ‘yang gobyerno at pribadong sektor, malayo po ang ating mararating tulad noong 2019, number 1 po tayo. Nagtulungan po tayo dito, nag-host po tayo dito sa Pilipinas. Number 1 po tayo sa ranking sa SEA Games,” he added. The senator likewise underscored the importance of investing in sports infrastructure and providing more resources for the development of local athletes. He maintained that with proper support, Filipino athletes can compete at the highest level and bring honor to the country. Go earlier authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports in 2020 as part of his vision to ensure promising young athletes can further hone their talents while getting a quality education. The NAS is a government-run academy aimed at developing the country’s future athletes by offering quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. The senator also filed Senate Bill No. 423, or the proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022, to provide a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development. The post Bong Go visits Cambodia, supports Filipino athletes participating in SEA Games appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
`Compete with all your heart,’ Go tells SEA Games-bound athletes
On Monday, 24 April, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go expressed his full support for Filipino athletes competing in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia as he attended their send-off ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. The event was led by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. who encouraged the Filipino athletes to go for the gold and bring back the Philippines' number one spot in the Games. In an interview during the event, Go, as chair of the Senate Committee on Sports and a sports enthusiast himself, said he understands the value of sports in the lives of young Filipinos. "Nandirito po ako to support. Being a sports enthusiast, noon pa talagang mahilig na po ako sa sports," said Go. "And that’s one way of encouraging the youth to get into sports and stay away from drugs. Isa po ito sa pamamaraan na ilayo po natin ang ating mga kabataan sa iligal na droga. Get into sports, stay away from drugs, and keep them healthy and fit," he added. To help in this cause, Go shared that he sponsored and defended additional funding for the Philippine Sports Commission during its 2023 budget deliberation, particularly for grassroots sports development and in support of athletes joining international competitions. "Gaya noon, full support po ako sa ating mga atleta. Not only sa SEA Games, Asian Games, Olympics, full support po ako," he said. Go continued, "In fact, during the budget deliberation, ang budget po ng PSC less than P200 million. Ako po ‘yung nag-defend at nag-suggest ng dagdag sa pondo nila." "Nagdagdag po tayo ng P1 billion sa budget ng PSC including budget na po para sa Southeast Asian Games, sa iba pang mga grassroots program, not only sa international competition, pati sa local," he added. Particularly, the increase in the PSC's 2023 budget reflected in the General Appropriations Act is intended to support Filipino athletes in the 2022 Asian Games, 2023 Southeast Asian Games, and 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Furthermore, athletes competing in the ASEAN Para Games, Asian Indoor Martial Arts Games, World Combat Games, World Beach Games, Asian Beach Games, and World Beach Games will receive similar support. Portions of the funds were allotted for the country's hosting of the FIBA World Cup in 2023 as well as for several sports programs, such as Batang Pinoy, the Philippine National Games, and the grassroots program under the Sports Development Council. There are also funds allocated for the development of sports infrastructure across the country, as well as for advanced research and development in sports sciences and sports technology. When asked about his message to the athletes, Go echoed Marcos' words of encouragement, "Sinabi na rin po ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos kanina, 'Go, go, go for the gold.' Ibig sabihin sana magtsa-champion po tayo. Ibalik natin ‘yung pagiging No.1 natin." Go reminded the athletes that the important thing is to fight and compete with all their hearts, as Filipinos are known for their passion and perseverance. Around 860 Filipino athletes, 76 reserved players, and 347 sports officials, medical personnel, and support staff will travel to Cambodia to compete in 608 events across 38 sports categories from 5-17 May. With the impressive performance of Filipino athletes in the 2021 SEA Games in Vietnam, where they brought home 227 medals, including 52 gold, 70 silver, and 105 bronze, the Philippines is poised to once again make a strong showing in the upcoming games. In the 2019 SEA Games, the Philippines hosted the event and emerged as the overall champion with 149 gold medals, 117 silver medals, and 121 bronze medals. The National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act, or Republic Act No. 10699, entitles SEA Games gold medalists to a P300,000 incentive, silver medalists to P150,000, and bronze medalists to P60,000. During the Duterte administration, Go advocated for additional benefits to medalists. An advocate for grassroots sports development, Go earlier authored and co-sponsored RA 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports in 2020 as part of his vision to ensure promising young athletes can further hone their talents while getting quality education. The NAS is a government-run academy aimed at developing the country’s future athletes by offering quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. The senator also filed Senate Bill No. 423, or the proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022, to provide a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development The post `Compete with all your heart,’ Go tells SEA Games-bound athletes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New PNP chief is `risk-of-life heroism’ awardee
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Police Major General Benjamin Acorda Jr. as the new Philippine National Police chief, Malacañang said on Monday. The Palace made the announcement as the President attended the change-of-command and retirement ceremony for outgoing PNP chief PGen Rodolfo Azurin Jr. at the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame. In a statement, Malacañang said Acorda was regarded as the “dark horse” among the choices for the top position of the PNP chief. Acorda previously held positions such as the PNP Director of Intelligence and Deputy Regional Director for Operations of the National Capital Region Police Office. He also served as the head of the Municipal Police Stations of Balungao, Sison, Bolinao, and Sual in Pangasinan and later served as the head of the Palawan Police Provincial Office between 2014 and 2016. "As Palawan police chief, he turned the local police force to No. 1 in operational accomplishments from being No. 5 in the entire Mimaropa Region," Malacañang said. Acorda also held the position of Regional Director for Police Regional Office 10 in Northern Mindanao, where he maintained a low crime rate and was highly trusted by the public. Acorda is a graduate of the "Sambisig" Class of 1991 of the Philippine Military Academy and has a Master's Degree in Management from the Philippine Christian University. "He is a recipient of the Bronze Cross Medal, a prestigious single grade military decoration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines which is awarded for 'heroism involving risk of life'," a Palace statement read. The post New PNP chief is `risk-of-life heroism’ awardee appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pinay duathlete passes US Naval Academy
Mary Pauline Fornea, a bronze medalist in mixed relay duathlon in last year’s Southeast Asian Games, just found a new reason to celebrate......»»
Filipina diathlete passes US Naval Academy
Mary Pauline Fornea, a bronze medalist in mixed relay duathlon in last year’s Southeast Asian Games, has found a better reason to celebrate......»»
PH media slam Chinese foreign ministry’s claims of manipulating WPS reports
Philippine media groups criticized the Chinese foreign ministry for suggesting that recent reports on Chinese harassment of Filipino vessels in the West Philippine Sea involved video manipulation and sensationalism to portray the Philippines as a victim. The Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (Focap) and National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) expressed offense.....»»