We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
Opinion - South China Sea- Philippines must softly manage disputes or miss out economically
Manilas assertive transparency strategy is touted as a model for managing maritime disputes but it diminishes key economic opportunities. As Chinese investment pours into other Southeast Asian countries, the Philippines must reduce geopolitical risks without acquiescing to Beijing......»»
[OPINION] Education for life: Weaving ethics in all subject areas
By making ethical reflection a cornerstone of our educational system, we foster a generation capable not only of doing things well, but of doing the right thing.....»»
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......»»
Substantiate your opinion : Students join NCCA workshop on film reading
Students in Zamboanga, however, learned a few tips on how to appreciate or read a film better in a workshop facilitated by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts when the national agency visited the southern city last March 8 in celebration of the National Arts Month every February......»»
Cha-cha plebiscite and midterm polls in one event: A test of Comelec s independence
BOTH LEGISLATIVE chambers are now leading charter change discussions. Legislators have repeatedly said that amendments will be limited to economic measures in the 1987 Constitution.Meanwhile, the conduct of the plebiscite had Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chair George Garcia describe the logistical preparations required for it. He argued that it should be held as a separate event from the 2025 midterm electi.....»»
Roundup: Malaysian PM right to stress autonomy in foreign policy: analysts
Roundup: Malaysian PM right to stress autonomy in foreign policy: analysts.....»»
PH dev t NGOs: Take People Power to Local Communities as Nation Commemorates EDSA Uprising
The Caucus of Development Non-Government Organization Networks (CODE-NGO) enjoins the Filipino public to keep the spirit of the 1986 EDSA Uprising alive by putting ordinary people at the front and center of local development and local autonomy - ideals, among many others, that figure prominently in the 1987 Constitution, as they facilitate the fulfillment of the rights and freedoms restored by this ongoing de.....»»
PH dev t NGOs: Take People Power to Local Communities as Nation Commemorates EDSA Uprising
The Caucus of Development Non-Government Organization Networks (CODE-NGO) enjoins the Filipino public to keep the spirit of the 1986 EDSA Uprising alive by putting ordinary people at the front and center of local development and local autonomy - ideals, among many others, that figure prominently in the 1987 Constitution, as they facilitate the fulfillment of the rights and freedoms restored by this ongoing de.....»»
Campaigns for Mindanao s independence already settled
House lawmakers on Tuesday bucked the recent calls by former President Rodrigo Duterte to secede Mindanao from the country, saying that the lengthy peace processes undertaken by Mindanaoans through the years have “already settled” the matter of the region’s autonomy......»»
Bringing UP to the people
Since it was established in 1908 as a “university for Filipinos,” the University of the Philippines has grown into a system of eight “constituent universities,” each with a certain degree of autonomy but all of them unified by a common vision, shared practices and high academic standards......»»
Marcos ensures independence in Maharlika Investment Corp. board
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vowed to strengthen the independence of the Maharlika Investment Corp. board of directors, emphasizing the need for autonomy in fund management. .....»»
Autonomy of water districts
Tension continues to mount, both at the Local Water Utilities Administration and the Metro Cebu Water District after LWUA’s intervention and blessing were sought to validate the change of leadership made at the water district......»»
Comelec, Barmm sign MOA for teachers participating in BSKE
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and Barmm’s Ministry of Basic, Higher, Technical, and Education (MBHTE) inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to protect the rights of the teachers as the frontliners during elections. The MOA is in line with the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) 2023 and pursuant to Bangsamoro Autonomous Act No. 35, known as the Bangsamoro Electoral Code, in consonance with meaningful autonomy under (R.A.) No. 10756, otherwise known as the Election Service'', on October 19, at Dusit Thani Hotel in Davao City. The agreement also aims to emphasize the honoraria, travel allowance, and other benefits of the teachers in Barmm for their role in maintaining the confidentiality of voter’s ballot......»»
UN says peacekeepers’ ‘lives in danger’ in Mali
UN peacekeepers made an early withdrawal from their camp at Tessalit in northern Mali because their "lives were in danger", the United Nations mission said Sunday. Malian troops on Saturday took over the Tessalit camp, the army said on social media, the first handover in the Kidal region where clashes with armed groups have flared recently. The withdrawal of the UN stabilization mission in Mali (MINUSMA) after 13 years has ignited fears that fighting will intensify between troops and armed factions for control of the territory. The pullout was completed "in an extremely tense and degraded security context putting in danger the lives of personnel", according to a MINUSMA statement received Sunday. UN staff had previously been "forced to shelter in bunkers several times because of shooting", the statement said. It gave the example of October 19, when an incoming fire targeted a C130 transport plane on landing at Tessalit. No injuries or serious damage were recorded. Before quitting the base, MINUSMA said it took "the difficult decision to destroy, deactivate or put out of service expensive equipment such as vehicles, munitions, generators, and other items". The last convoy left Tessalit on Saturday by road heading for Gao, the biggest town in northern Mali. Mali's ruling junta, which seized power in 2020, had in June demanded the mission leave despite being in the grip of jihadism and raging crises. The withdrawal of around 11,600 soldiers and 1,500 police officers is due to continue until 31 December and has exacerbated rivalries between armed groups present in the north. The Coordination of Azawad Movements -- an alliance of predominantly Tuareg groups seeking autonomy or independence -- has carried out a series of attacks on army positions. The Al-Qaeda-linked Support Group for Islam and Muslims (GSIM) has also increased attacks against the military. Before Tessalit, MINUSMA had transferred five other camps to the Malian authorities since August. But the evacuation of the camps in the Kidal region, and especially the town of Kidal, a separatist bastion, remains a major challenge. The separatists do not want the camps handed back to the Malian army, saying it would contravene the ceasefire and peace deals struck with Bamako in 2014 and 2015. The post UN says peacekeepers’ ‘lives in danger’ in Mali appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Should BSP defend the peso?
Amid reports that the Philippine peso is now among the worst-performing currencies this quarter, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is said to be mulling over intervening to defend the currency at P57 to the US dollar in hopes of arresting its slide. However, it also said it won’t intervene much if the peso slides along with other currencies. In light of present-day realities, should the BSP proceed with an intervention? As we all know, the exchange rate policy is a critical aspect of a country’s economic strategy, influencing its trade balance, inflation rates, and overall economic stability. A fixed rate of P57 to the dollar implies stability and predictability for businesses engaged in international trade. A stable exchange rate can foster investor confidence, attract foreign direct investment, and stimulate economic growth. On the other hand, a flexible exchange rate allows for adjustments in response to changing economic conditions, potentially aiding in external competitiveness. One of the primary arguments in favor of defending the Philippine peso at P57 to the US dollar is stability. A fixed exchange rate provides businesses with a clear and unchanging benchmark for international transactions, reducing uncertainty and mitigating risks associated with currency fluctuations. This stability can attract foreign investors, offering a predictable business planning and investment decisions environment. Moreover, defending the peso at P57 may help control inflation. A stable exchange rate can contribute to price stability by preventing imported inflation. If the peso depreciates significantly, the cost of imported goods and services will rise, leading to higher inflation rates. By defending the peso at P57, the central bank can act as a bulwark against inflationary pressures, ensuring the currency’s purchasing power remains relatively constant. In terms of trade dynamics, a fixed exchange rate can be advantageous. A strong and stable peso makes imported goods more affordable for consumers, contributing to a higher standard of living. Additionally, it can encourage domestic industries by making exports more competitive in international markets. This could lead to increased export-led economic growth, job creation, and reduced trade deficits. While defending the Philippine peso at P57 to the US dollar offers certain advantages, there are also compelling arguments against such a fixed exchange rate. One major concern is the loss of monetary policy autonomy. In a fixed exchange rate regime, the central bank’s ability to independently conduct monetary policy is limited, as it must adjust interest rates to maintain the targeted exchange rate. This lack of flexibility can be a significant drawback, especially in the face of changing economic conditions. Furthermore, a fixed exchange rate may not reflect the true market equilibrium. If the peso is overvalued at P57 to the dollar, it could lead to a loss of competitiveness for Philippine exports. This might hinder economic growth in the long run as industries struggle to compete globally. Additionally, an overvalued currency could contribute to persistent trade deficits, as the cost of imports remains relatively low. Another consideration is the potential for speculative attacks. If market participants believe that the fixed exchange rate is unsustainable, they may engage in speculative activities to profit from an anticipated devaluation. This can lead to increased pressure on the central bank’s foreign exchange reserves, making it challenging to maintain the targeted exchange rate. In conclusion, whether the central bank should defend the Philippine peso at P57 to the US dollar is nuanced, requiring careful balancing of economic objectives. While a fixed exchange rate can offer stability, attract investment, and control inflation, it comes at the cost of reduced monetary policy autonomy and potential distortions in trade dynamics. Ultimately, the central bank must consider the broader economic context, international market forces, and the long-term sustainability of its exchange rate policy. Flexibility and adaptability may be vital in navigating the complexities of the global economic landscape while fostering a resilient and competitive domestic economy. The post Should BSP defend the peso? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Keeping it together
It’s no longer unusual, nowadays, for a family to have one or both parents working in another country, or for grown children to relocate abroad for work or start their own family. Single parenting is also quite common, right along there with blended families and LGBTQ unions with kids. Yet even when families are together in one place — one home, compound, neighborhood or city — it takes a lot to stay “together,” literally and figuratively. Perhaps sensing the threats to what is recognized as society’s basic foundation, our government in 1992 decided to declare the last week of September as Family Week, as mandated by Proclamation 60 signed by then President Fidel V. Ramos. Ramos wanted the week to emphasize the importance of the family as “the foundation of the nation” and “as a basic autonomous social institution,” as well as recognize “the sanctity of family life,” as stated in the Constitution of the Philippines. The world may transform in many ways, but the need for family will never change. “No matter how much life changes and the concept of family evolves, it may continue to benefit human health and wellness by offering a sense of belonging and support,” it aptly states in an article on Better Help, which also enumerates the factors affecting family life as “advancements in technology, changing cultural norms, new priorities and advanced forms of communication fueled by the internet.” The sense of belonging one gains from being part of a family — whether it is in a traditional setup, adoptive or “chosen,” a new kind of family defined in these modern times — has a profound impact on one’s well-being. With government providing the impetus for today’s families to connect or reconnect during the annual Family Week, it is up to each one of us to take steps to keep ours together in these fast-paced, nomadic, dysfunctional times. In the local setting, we already see so many signs of the changing dynamics among families. We could wade through studies to figure out all the issues affecting our core foundation, but we believe one may truly gain more understanding by examining our own experiences. Here, we share the views of people in our sphere, in answer to our query: What do you consider as the biggest challenge for your family in these trying times? Gigie Arcilla, Editor-in-chief Dealing with young adult children presents the challenge of establishing boundaries as they seek independence and transition into adulthood. Striking a balance between support and autonomy, as well as providing guidance while allowing room for growth, can be difficult, especially for a single parent. [caption id="attachment_187927" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] STEPHANIE Mayo (fifth, clockwise) with her family. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Stephanie Mayo[/caption] Stephanie Mayo, Film critic and writer I have senior-citizen parents, and my siblings and I are now at the age when our health naturally starts to decline. Even if someone has health insurance, no one can deny how debilitating and expensive getting sick is. Without health, quality of life is decreased. You also cannot work (no work, no pay for freelancers such as myself) if you are sick. Gratefully, none of us in the family are currently seriously ill. It’s just that given that these trying times are also marked by corruption, medical gaslighting, new diseases and viruses and climate change, health problems have become even more threatening. [caption id="attachment_187926" align="aligncenter" width="993"] PAULINE Songco (fifth from left) and dad Arnold, mom Dhen, grandmother Linda and sister Patricia. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Pauline Songco[/caption] Pauline Songco, Editor and writer I would say our biggest challenge is finding time to be together. I am always never at home. If I am, I would just be there for a few hours to sleep. I would get up, then go to work again. I find myself having less and less free time than before. My sister is busy with work, and so is my father. My mom is left alone at home with my cats. But, she goes to the gym to occupy herself and to see her friends. Yet, I’m thankful for what we have right now for these are the same things that we used to pray for before. [caption id="attachment_187924" align="aligncenter" width="641"] PAULINE Pascual (first from left) and dad Roy, mom Jocelyn and sister Prizcia. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Pauline Pascual[/caption] Pauline Joyce Pascual, Lifestyle writer Our family became even closer during the pandemic, and now that things are almost back to normal, it is the family bonding that we used to that we find the most challenging. My sister is studying and getting ready for her time at college while my parents are back in business and I am now working outside of our province. I miss the good old days even though we still saw each other every week. [caption id="attachment_187925" align="aligncenter" width="638"] RAPHAEL, Rachael, Joylen and Ruben Ramos. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Raphael Ramos[/caption] Raphael Ramos, STEM student at De La Salle Araneta The desire to act in spite of the potential consequences for everyone else. The family members’ immaturity leads to a more serious issue and may stunt each person’s development. [caption id="attachment_187922" align="aligncenter" width="2246"] GEL, Dino, Tei and Maui Datu. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Dino Datu[/caption] Dino Datu, Chef, journalist and entrepreneur The biggest challenge in families today is creating quality family time. Everyone is so busy and there are so many distractions. While working and school work are necessities, we need to create time to just sit together for regular meals and chat without our electronic devices. Even on rare occasions that everyone is together, dining out, for example, people look at their phones every few seconds. That’s what I think is a big difference between today’s families and those from a few decades back. We often see “perfect” families on social media. Sadly, it seems like that’s the only place it exists. Teresa Laurente, Business Consultant For me, it has to be family, healthcare, children’s education and social media effect on young people. Pamela Palacio, Statistician III, Provincial Government of Bataan Disrespect to God and parents. Negative effect of social media. [caption id="attachment_187920" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] YVETTE Chua-Carrion (fourth from left) beside her husband, businessman Melon. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESYOF Yvette Chua-Carrion[/caption] Yvette Chua-Carrion, Educator and breakthrough life coach In these financially trying times — the budget for groceries, how to have savings for emergencies (which we hope won’t happen), and high gas prices. [caption id="attachment_187919" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] (FROM left) Riley, husband Noel, Tiffany and Ashley. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Tiffany Cuna[/caption] Tiffany Sison Cuna, Former beauty queen turned entrepreneur Disciplining and inculcating values in our children knowing how the Internet plays a vital role in their lives — it could either influence them positively or negatively. [caption id="attachment_187923" align="aligncenter" width="1170"] JIA Bote and dad Milton. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Jia Bote[/caption] Jia Bote, Student at the University of Santo Tomas With my father working away from home, the biggest challenge is having more time together as a family. When I was younger, I thought I had all the time in the world to spend time with my family. However, as I grow older, my responsibilities increase, and I have less free time than I used to. I remember spending the peak of the pandemic away from our father, and we could only talk through the phone for months. It was challenging for me not to see my father physically, especially when I go through difficult moments because I believe that we need more of our parents’ wisdom and guidance as we grow older. With the pandemic and the natural course of life, it feels like I have less time and opportunity to be with my father who is also growing old day by day. [caption id="attachment_187921" align="aligncenter" width="1242"] ALEX and Jet Capina (fourth and fifth from left) with their children. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY of Jet Capina[/caption] Jet Capina, retired bank vice president Our challenge is how to make the family complete on weekends. My children have their own gimmicks. Before every Sunday we were together attending church service but after the pandemic each of them esp Paolo is out of the house to be with his gf. I don’t think it’s good to write about it. Our challenge is how to make the family complete on weekends. My children are all good and well behaved but having grown up, the elder ones now and then have their own gimmicks. I am happy that my husband, who often plays golf, is with me always. The post Keeping it together appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MIF Law nullification: Remote or certain?
In recent months, the Maharlika Investment Fund Law has stirred considerable controversy and debate in the Philippines. Enacted to promote economic development and address pressing issues in the country, this law has faced legal challenges and criticism from various quarters. The question that looms large is whether the Supreme Court will likely nullify this law. The Maharlika Investment Fund Law, also known as Republic Act 11954, was passed by the Philippine Congress and signed into law by the President on 18 July 2023. Its primary objective is establishing a government-managed investment fund to promote economic development, infrastructure projects, and poverty alleviation. The law outlines the creation of the Maharlika Investment Fund, or MIF, and its funding sources, including contributions from government agencies, public enterprises, and certain revenue streams. The MIF Law faced legal challenges from various individuals, groups, and organizations almost immediately after its enactment. Critics have argued that the law violates the Constitution on several grounds, including the separation of powers, the fiscal autonomy of local government units, and the due process clause. Let’s examine these legal arguments in more detail. Critics contend that the law violates the principle of separation of powers by allowing the executive branch to control and manage the funds allocated under the MIF. They argue that the legislature should have greater oversight and control over the allocation and disbursement of public funds. As the Constitution guarantees, local government units or LGUs in the Philippines enjoy fiscal autonomy. Opponents argue that the MIF law encroaches upon this autonomy by diverting funds that could otherwise be allocated to LGUs for their own development projects. Some critics also claim that the law’s provisions lack clarity and transparency, potentially leading to the arbitrary and unfair allocation of funds. They argue that this lack of due process could result in mismanagement and corruption. The Supreme Court’s decision on whether or not to nullify the Maharlika Investment Fund Law will depend on several factors, including legal arguments, political considerations, and the interpretation of the Constitution. The Court will carefully consider the legal arguments presented by both sides. It will assess whether the law indeed violates constitutional principles such as the separation of powers and fiscal autonomy. The strength and persuasiveness of these arguments will be pivotal. It may also examine previous decisions and legal precedents to guide its decision-making process. If there are past cases that bear similarities to the issues raised in the MIF law, these could influence the Court’s stance. While the Court is an independent institution, it operates within a political context. Public opinion and the perception of the law’s impact on society may indirectly influence the Court’s decision, as judges may be mindful of the broader implications of their ruling. The Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Constitution will play a central role. Justices may have differing views on interpreting constitutional provisions, which could lead to a split decision. Offhand, what are the chances then of the MIF Law being nullified? If the legal challenges successfully demonstrate that the law indeed violates fundamental constitutional principles, such as the separation of powers or the fiscal autonomy of LGUs, then the chances of nullification increase. However, if the Court finds that the law is consistent with the Constitution, it will likely be upheld. The political climate and public sentiment may also be influential factors. If there is widespread public support for the law and the government’s efforts to promote economic development, the Court may consider that when rendering its decision. Conversely, if there is strong opposition and concerns about the law’s impact on governance and fiscal management, the Court may be more inclined to scrutinize it closely. The prospects, therefore, of the Supreme Court nullifying the MIF Law are uncertain and will depend on a range of legal, political, and constitutional factors. Therefore, it is essential to remember that the Court’s decision should be based on thoroughly examining the law’s compliance with the Philippine Constitution, rather than political or public pressure. Ultimately, the judiciary’s role is to uphold the rule of law and protect the constitutionality of legislation, ensuring that justice prevails in the Philippines. The post MIF Law nullification: Remote or certain? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Exhibit on 125th anniversary of Malolos Congress opens in Senate
Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda will lead the unveiling of an exhibit commemorating the 125th anniversary of Malolos Congress at the Senate building in Pasay City on Monday, 18 September. The exhibit, titled "Bakit Malolos?" and organized by Legarda's office in coordination with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, will run 18-21 September 2023. "We hope to remind the Filipino people, including our fellow lawmakers, the importance of our past as our history helps us calculate our next steps in preparing for the future," Legarda said. "The Malolos Congress helped signal to the world that Asians were capable of self-governing; it was a preview of what then-colonized countries could do if given autonomy and independence," she added. Originally an online exhibit during the pandemic, the exhibit features the names of the delegates to the Malolos Congress and the facsimile of the First Constitution. Ariston Rendon Gella, Antique's first pharmacist and the great-grandfather of Legarda, was one of its delegates. The exhibit also features several busts depicting historical figures such as the Republic's first president, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, and cabinet member Apolinario Mabini. The exhibit also shows scale models of the Barasoain Church and the Malolos Congress. NHCP Chairman Emmanuel Calairo and Museum Curator Ruel Paguiligan will grace the exhibit. The Malolos Congress played an important role in Philippine history as it ratified the Declaration of Independence and drafted the country's first Constitution months after the country declared independence from Spain on 12 June 1898, in Kawit, Cavite. It also paved the way for the Philippines to be the first republican democracy in Asia. The post Exhibit on 125th anniversary of Malolos Congress opens in Senate appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Widows of Moro guerillas get P50K each from government
Two hundred widows of Moro guerillas who perished in fighting for regional autonomy received P50,000 cash each as initial livelihood grants from the Bangsamoro government in payouts Thursday in Cotabato province......»»
Padilla files bill to push stronger CHR functions
Senator Robinhood Padilla filed a bill that will effectively expand the structural, organizational, and functional independence of the Commission on Human Rights. On Wednesday, Padilla pushed the Senate Bill 2440 that guarantees full fiscal autonomy to the CHR "to ensure prompt, immediate, and unrestricted discharge of its functions.” “Regarded as a toothless tiger, the Commission has endured its limitations in rightfully carrying out its mandate within its jurisdiction,” Padilla said. He emphasized the need to further strengthen the CHR’s mandates, powers, and functions that are imperative to its “cardinal role in cultivating a culture of human rights culture in the country.” "A just and democratic country cannot be attained without a truly independent national human rights institution, said Padilla. “Today, more than ever, we need a more active CHR, one that is not strapped to the task of investigation or cannot recognize violations of human rights other than those involving civil and political rights.” SB 2440 provides the CHR with full authority to act on a complaint or motu proprio, in all cases of human rights violations; and vests it with the power to issue injunctive reliefs and legal measures. Padilla said the CHR’s independence “shall be respected and upheld, even as appropriations for it shall not be reduced and shall be automatically and regularly released.” “We need a CHR that can address the challenge of protecting and promoting the human rights of all, especially the vulnerable, the disadvantaged, and the marginalized sectors of society," he added. The measure will make CHR to be regarded as a national human rights institution, in accordance with the Principles Relating to the Status of National Institutions (Paris Principles) and other United Nations resolutions and instruments. Padilla said the SB 2440 will allow CHR to provide safety to witnesses and human rights defenders under threat as well as to implement and manage a witness protection service. Further, the CHR shall develop and implement a human rights information campaign program for the public; and establish a Human Rights Institute for the promotion and education of human rights and related fields. The HRI shall serve as a training institute for investigators, prosecutors, justices, judges, lawyers, and other human rights workers. Meanwhile, CHR is tasked to maintain a legal assistance program for underprivileged victims of human rights violations and prepare and make public an annual report on the findings of its monitoring activities. It shall also undertake measures for the protection and promotion of the human rights of Filipinos abroad, in coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Migrant Workers, or deputized Philippine embassy or consulate officers. The post Padilla files bill to push stronger CHR functions appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»