We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
Universal Health Care Coordinating Council to be created
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the proposal to establish the Universal Health Care Coordinating Council responsible for supervising the execution of the UHC Act to fix the country’s fragmented healthcare infrastructure. In a Malacañang Press Briefing, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the council will function as a platform for addressing pertinent issues that could arise during the execution of the UHC legislation. "The President approved the Department of Health’s proposal of creating a Universal Health Care Coordinating Council through an executive order. So, we would be crafting and drafting this," Herbosa said. "We will standardize the health policies. The council will serve as a national governance body that will oversee the implementation of the Universal Health Care Act nationwide, the project and estimate total national cost for UHC and also implementation of the Universal Health Care at local government level," he said. Herbosa said that the council would consist of various government agencies. These include the Department of Health, the Departments of Interior and Local Government, Information and Communications Technology, Budget and Management, and Finance, in addition to the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and the Professional Regulation Commission, among others. Furthermore, Herbosa emphasized that any concerns or issues arising in the implementation of the UHC Act can also be raised before this governing body. Herbosa pointed out that the Local Government Code of 1991 had decentralized the country's healthcare system, which the UHC Act has been striving to reintegrate since its enactment. He also mentioned that a total of 71 local government units have committed to amalgamating their healthcare schemes with the UHC system. Herbosa further mentioned that President Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of the Interior and Local Government to accelerate the evaluation of Executive Order (EO) No. 138 and include certain elements of it in the reforms for Universal Health Care financing through amendments. Executive Order 138 was issued by Marcos' predecessor, former President Rodrigo Duterte, in 2021 to implement the Mandanas Ruling of the Supreme Court. This ruling declared that local government units (LGUs) should receive 40 percent of all government tax collections, not limited to national internal revenue taxes. “So, the Department of Health is very pleased with the President has given full support to the department’s vision of transforming the healthcare system of the Filipino through the Universal Health Care Act,” Herbosa said......»»
PEZA chief understands investors’ dilemma
The director general of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority said he understands the clamor of investors with regard to tax perks and incentives, which is why it’s only right that the government has finally decided to amend the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 11534 or the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act. During discussions at the Rotary Club of Manila membership meeting last 5 October 2023, a member of the Club who is an investor in various sectors locally said the current policies of the government in terms of tax perks were unpredictable because of the “tug of war” between the investment promotion agencies, that is, PEZA and the Board of Investments, which are both under the watch of the Department of Trade and Industry, and the Fiscal Incentives Review Board, chaired by Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno. Last among five countries He said that explains why the Philippines is the last among five countries considered by investors as investment destinations in Southeast Asia, with investments now being dominated by Vietnam, followed by Singapore, Malaysia and Cambodia. The Rotarian said in terms of exports, the Philippines is also a laggard compared to the performance of the country’s Southeast Asian counterparts. Total Philippine exports dropped to $6.1 billion in July 2023, from $6.7 billion in the previous month. In comparison, Vietnam in August 2023 enjoyed $32.8 billion in exports. Most attractive destination Vietnam is now considered Southeast Asia’s most attractive destination for foreign investors because of its favorable business environment, steady economic growth, improved infrastructure and pro-foreign investment policy changes. According to Standard Chartered Bank, Vietnam’s advantages to being the top tourist destination are in terms of labor, global trade integration, supply chains, political stability, and potential resources, with the government committed to promoting trade and sustainable growth. Unclear policies Another issue that was being questioned by some investors, according to the Rotarian, is the realization of the Fourth Industrial Revolution which also doesn’t have clear policies for renewable energy, data centers, information technology and artificial intelligence. “We have yet to see concrete policy formulation and a roadmap to that effect, compared to the recent pronouncement of US President Joe Biden that Vietnam is positioned as the future chipmaker. The United States is currently legislating measures to dispense funds for that purpose. There seems to be a disconnect,” the investor said. Regarding this, PEZA’s Panga admitted that there were indeed ‘differences’ in terms of policies among government agencies, particularly the DTI and the FIRB. Still, Panga sought the support of the oldest and first Rotary Club in Asia where it concerns PEZA’s job to further attract foreign direct investments into the country. Panga emphasized that a whole government, industry, and society approach is needed to improve and lessen the cost of doing business. Eco-zoning push “Through our collaborations and strategic alliances, PEZA, together with the Rotary Club of Manila, other ecozone industries, and stakeholders, will continue to push for eco-zoning the Philippines towards inclusive and sustainable development,” he added. Last August 2023, Finance Secretary Diokno and Trade and Industry Secretary Pascual approved the amendment to the IRR of the CREATE Act that will resolve the value-added tax issues raised by transitory registered business enterprises. The post PEZA chief understands investors’ dilemma appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden fears US chaos could hit Ukraine aid
President Joe Biden admitted Wednesday he was worried that political turmoil in Washington could threaten US aid to Ukraine, urging Republicans to stop their infighting and back "critically important" assistance for Kyiv. Biden added that he would soon be giving a major speech on the need to support Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion after the chaos in Washington alarmed US allies. "It does worry me," Biden told reporters when asked whether the ousting of Republican House speaker Kevin McCarthy by hardliners in his own party could derail more funds for Ukraine's war effort. "But I know there are a majority of members of the House and Senate of both parties who have said that they support funding Ukraine." A last-gasp deal in Congress to avoid a US government shutdown at the weekend contained no fresh funding for Ukraine, and hopes for a quick solution have been further complicated by McCarthy's exit on Tuesday. The contenders to replace him hold a range of views but among them is hard-right Republican Jim Jordan, who has been notably skeptical on funding Ukraine. The timing is critical, with the White House warning that aid could run out within months just as Ukraine tries to push forward its slow-moving offensive against Russia before winter sets in. Biden indicated there was "another means by which we may be able to find funding" without congressional approval, but would not give further details. The president will get a briefing on Ukraine from his national security team on Thursday, the first to feature the new top US military officer, General Charles "CQ" Brown, the White House added. 'Keep our commitment' The president's comments reflected a change of tone, as Biden had told allies in a call on Tuesday that he was "confident" of getting fresh aid passed, according to the White House. The US president said he would now make the case for the importance of helping Ukraine as it battles the full-scale invasion launched by Russia in February 2022. "I'm going to be announcing very shortly a major speech I'm going to make on this issue, and why it's critically important for the United States and our allies that we keep our commitment," Biden said. Biden declined to say when he would make the speech. Russia has said that the questions over the future of US aid reflect growing fatigue in the West over its support for Ukraine. But the White House insisted that there were no cracks in the alliance when Biden spoke to the leaders of key European allies and others on Tuesday. "None of them brought up that they were concerned," Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters. "They have their own domestic political issues that they have to deal with as well." German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who was among those who spoke with Biden, said on Wednesday he was "convinced" of continued US support for Ukraine. The United States is by far the biggest supporter of Kyiv, committing more than $43 billion in military assistance to Kyiv so far, while Congress has approved a total of $113 billion in aid including humanitarian help. Without new aid being approved, the funding could run out in a "couple of months," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said. In a statement Wednesday, the US military said it had given Ukraine's armed forces more than 1 million rounds of seized Iranian ammunition. But the White House's Jean-Pierre said she "wouldn't connect" this with concerns over the future of US aid. The post Biden fears US chaos could hit Ukraine aid appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos, VP Duterte’s approval scores decline – Pulse Asia
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte's approval ratings plummeted in September amid West Philippine Sea developments, rising commodity prices, and concerns about proposed confidential funds. Latest survey from opinion polling firm Pulse Asia on Monday showed that Marcos' approval rating fell 15 basis points from 80 percent in June to 65 percent in September. Meanwhile, Duterte's approval rating fell 11 basis points from 84 percent in June to 73 percent in September. Still, the Vice President, daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, outperformed Marcos. "Although the President and the Vice-President continue to enjoy majority approval scores at the national level and across geographic areas and socio-economic classes, both experience significant erosions in their respective approval ratings during the period June 2023 to September 2023," the pollster said. Marcos and Duterte still enjoy majority trust ratings at 71 percent and 75 percent trust scores, respectively. Meanwhile, half of adult Filipinos had an upbeat assessment of the work done by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri. Half of the respondents could not say if they approved or disapproved of the performance of Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo. Pulse Asia conducted the survey using face-to-face interviews from 10 to 14 September 2023. This nationwide survey is based on a sample of 1,200 representative adults 18 years old and above. It has a ± 2.8 percent error margin at the 95 percent confidence level. The post Marcos, VP Duterte’s approval scores decline – Pulse Asia appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Torture in Egypt a ‘crime against humanity’ — rights groups
Egyptian authorities' "widespread and systematic" use of torture is "a crime against humanity", rights groups said Monday in an appeal to the United Nations to review Egypt's rights record. The report, submitted to the UN Committee against Torture, tracked the use of methods including "beatings, electrical shocks, sexual violence" and denial of access to medical care by members of the security services. Egyptian authorities "use of torture is so widespread and systematic as to amount to a crime against humanity under customary international law," the coalition of six rights groups said. Torture has been used "as a political tool to curtail dissent" in Egypt's long-running practice of targeting "human rights defenders, minorities, journalists, academics and opposition politicians," according to Mohamed Lotfy, the Egyptian Commission for Rights and Freedoms' executive director. The coalition submitting the report included the ECRF, the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR), and London-based human rights organization REDRESS. In November the UN committee will review Egypt's record under the UN Convention against Torture. Cairo has long been criticized for its rights record during the decade-long rule of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi who oversaw a crackdown on dissent. Rights groups estimate the country has around 60,000 political prisoners. Many of them, according to rights groups, have been subjected to brutal conditions in overcrowded cells and regularly mistreated by prison authorities. "Torture is dismissed as merely isolated acts of misconduct instead of being seen for what it really is: a deliberate attack on Egypt's citizens that is a crime against humanity," said Rupert Skilbeck, director of REDRESS. According to Monday's report, the use of torture is "part of a state policy," enabled by "emergency laws, 'counter-terrorism' laws and policies, and rampant impunity" for violations. Cairo has regularly denied torturing people in detention. US military aid The United States has repeatedly criticized Egypt's human rights record, accusing authorities of torture and "life-threatening prison conditions". Despite such persistent concerns, the administration of President Joe Biden last month approved most military aid to Cairo, in a total package that exceeds $1.2 billion and includes $235 million subject to human rights conditions imposed by Congress. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, citing national security interests, waved those restrictions but withheld a separate $85 million over rights issues. However, the new chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Ben Cardin, threatened to block the military funding, in a move rights groups applauded on Sunday. "This decision is a needed first step... to hold the Egyptian regime accountable for its egregious human rights violations," 14 rights organizations said in a joint statement applauding congressional efforts to pull support from Egypt. Cardin replaced Senator Bob Menendez, who on Wednesday pleaded not guilty in New York to bribery and extortion allegations involving the Egyptian government. Since last year, Sisi's administration has made apparent overtures to the decimated opposition, launching a "national dialogue", pardoning political prisoners, and releasing detainees. But ahead of a presidential election in December that Sisi is widely expected to win, experts say the government has done little to actually advance its rights record. Despite the release of nearly 1,000 political prisoners in the past year, rights groups recorded almost three times as many detained over the same period. The post Torture in Egypt a ‘crime against humanity’ — rights groups appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mandaue pushes ‘kasambahay’ desk
The local government of Mandaue City’s Public Employment and Service Office in Cebu province is encouraging barangay officials in the city to establish a “Kasambahay Desk” in their respective villages. PESO-Mandaue head Musuline Suliva disclosed that the desk will assist house helpers to register and hear their side whenever they have complaints and concerns against their employers. “The purpose of the law is to see how many house helper are there in the barangays, to see if they were given the exact amount of their salary, they can be helped if they have a complaint against their employer,” Suliva said. He stressed that only five out of the 27 barangays in the city were able to establish the desk and pass data regarding the number of registered house helpers in their barangays — Barangays Subangdaku, Cambaro, Looc, Basak and Maguikay. Republic Act 10361 or the Act Instituting Policies for the Protection and Welfare of Domestic Workers was approved in January 2013 and it requires all employers to register their kasambahay under their employment in the barangay where their residence is located. Sections 1 and 2 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations stipulate the barangays with SSS, PhilHealth and Pag-IBIG to conduct registration. “When the law was passed, we launched it right away. We went to Insular Square, we invited all barangays. At least, they will know how to do it,” Suliva said. After the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, the 22 barangays are set to conduct house-to-house survey to determine how many house helpers are there in the barangays. The post Mandaue pushes ‘kasambahay’ desk appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
JPMorgan Chase to pay $75 mn to settle Epstein-linked sex trafficking suit
JPMorgan Chase announced Tuesday that it will pay $75 million to settle a US Virgin Islands' (USVI) lawsuit that accused the bank of facilitating Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking ring. The big US bank, which previously reached a $290 million settlement with Epstein's victims, also announced an agreement with former JPMorgan executive Jes Staley for an undisclosed sum. These cases together resolve the bank's remaining litigation over its embarrassing long-running association with the late Epstein. The agreement with the USVI came a few weeks ahead of a scheduled trial in New York that likely would have bruised both sides. While the USVI accused JPMorgan of turning a "blind eye" to Epstein's conduct due to profit concerns, the bank levied essentially the same charge against USVI, saying the government helped Epstein obtain visas that allowed him to bring victims to the island. The settlement, which must be approved by a US court, includes $30 million to support USVI charitable organizations, $25 million to enhance USVI law enforcement to combat human trafficking and $20 million in attorneys' fees. JPMorgan did not admit liability as part of the settlement, but the "firm deeply regrets any association with this man, and would never have continued doing business with him if it believed he was using the bank in any way to commit his heinous crimes," the bank said in a statement. "JPMorgan believes this settlement is in the best interest of all parties," the bank said. The USVI had originally sought $190 million in damages for the bank's role in enabling Epstein's sex crimes, including in the Virgin Islands, where he had a residence. The USVI said JPMorgan "knowingly, negligently, and unlawfully provided and pulled the levers through which recruiters and victims were paid and was indispensable to the operation and concealment of the Epstein trafficking enterprise," according the original complaint. Bank hits back The bank hit back forcefully, saying in a May legal filing that the USVI government was "complicit in the crimes of Jeffrey Epstein." Under a "quid pro quo" relationship with top USVI officials, Epstein "gave them advice, influence, and favors," JPMorgan said in the filing. "In exchange, they shielded and even rewarded him... looking the other way when he walked through USVI airports accompanied by girls and young women." US Virgin Islands Attorney General Ariel Smith said Tuesday the agreement would prevent human trafficking in the future. "This settlement is an historic victory for survivors and for state enforcement, and it should sound the alarm on Wall Street about banks' responsibilities under the law to detect and prevent human trafficking," Smith said. "We are proud to have stood alongside the survivors throughout this litigation, and this settlement reflects our continued commitment to them," Smith said. The USVI press release listed a number of "substantial commitments" by JPMorgan to combat human trafficking, including informing law enforcement of perpetrators and terminating customers' accounts if there is credible evidence of wrongdoing. But a JPMorgan spokesperson said the bank has not changed or fortified its policies due to the accord. "There are no new commitments. Our controls, compliance, risk, and other functions are always improving, and we are continually investing to become even better," said JPMorgan's Trish Wexler. "We have always worked closely with law enforcement to help combat human trafficking, and we will continue to look for ways to invest in advancing this important mission." The post JPMorgan Chase to pay $75 mn to settle Epstein-linked sex trafficking suit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New diabetes drug better for weight loss than Ozempic: research
A new diabetes drug leads to more weight loss and lower blood sugar than its blockbuster rival semaglutide, also known as Ozempic, a review of research said on Saturday. Tirzepatide, sold under the brand name Mounjaro by US pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly, is currently approved to treat type 2 diabetes in the United States, Europe and most recently the UK. However Eli Lilly is seeking to get the drug authorized in the US for obesity, which would put it further in competition with Danish firm Novo Nordisk's semaglutide drug, known as Ozempic for diabetes treatment or Wegovy for weight loss. After Ozempic went viral on social media earlier this year for its ability to help people lose weight, skyrocketing demand led to occasional supply shortages -- and concerns that people without diabetes or obesity were using it to shed a few kilos. New research, which is being presented at a conference in Germany and has not been peer-reviewed, suggests that Eli Lilly's newer drug could be even more effective. The Greek researchers combined data from 22 previous randomized control trials which separately looked at the two drugs, both of which are taken once a week as an injection. The researchers then used the studies, which covered a total of nearly 18,500 patients with type 2 diabetes, to compare three different doses of both drugs over a period of at least 12 weeks. Lead author Thomas Karagiannis of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki told AFP that for the highest doses, "tirzepatide resulted in an average weight loss that was 5.7 kilograms (12.5 pounds) more than semaglutide". It also led to a two percent reduction in blood sugar levels compared to the highest dose of semaglutide. "However, it is also notable that the highest tripeptide dose was associated with increased gastrointestinal adverse events," Karagiannis added. - Give to those with 'greatest need' - The research will be presented next month at the Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes in Germany. Duane Mellor, an expert in evidence-based medicine at the UK's Aston University not involved in the research, cautioned that it was not a full peer-reviewed paper. "It would have been better if it had analyzed data from studies which directly compared the two drugs," he told AFP. Given previous shortages of these drugs, Mellor emphasized that it was essential that both are "given to those with the greatest need," such as people living with type 2 diabetes. A previous study found that the highest dose of tirzepatide leads to an average loss of 15 percent of body weight over 72 weeks. However, like Ozempic, the weight can come back if people stop taking the drug. Both drugs mimic the gastrointestinal hormone GLP-1, activating receptors in the brain involved in appetite regulation. But unlike semaglutide, tirzepatide also targets fellow hormone GIP, which stimulates the release of insulin. Sales of Mounjaro nearly reached $1 billion in the second quarter of this year alone. © Agence France-Presse The post New diabetes drug better for weight loss than Ozempic: research appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DHSUD, UPAC create group to solve housing issues
A technical working group focused on solving housing issues has been created by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the Urban Poor Action Committee (UPAC) to address shelter woes. The TWG, with member representatives from DHSUD, UPAC, National Housing Authority, and Social Housing Finance Corporation, aims to craft programs that will make public housing more accessible to the underserviced sectors. “The creation of this TWG was in response to the clamor of urban poor groups. It will primarily focus on issues that remain unresolved for decades now. I can see complexities on the concerns but by uniting and helping each other, we can find ways to appropriately address gaps in the sector,” said DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar in a statement Sunday. "Ito po ay nagpapatunay na ang Marcos administration at ang DHSUD ay nakikinig sa lahat ng stakeholders, at inuuna po natin ang mga kababayan nating mahihirap," he added. Members of urban poor groups consist of informal settler families, residents living near danger zones, especially in river banks and coastal areas, and beneficiaries of government housing programs. During its first meeting Thursday, led by Assistant Secretary Daryll Bryan Villanueva, the discussion has identified the functions of each group to move toward effectively resolving various housing resettlement concerns. The TWG also tackled UPAC’s People’s Plan which proposes a more participative and solution-based housing plan involving the beneficiaries from planning to program sustainability plans. “We also see challenges in the implementation of previously issued presidential proclamations and NHA housing projects. But with this TWG and our working relationship with involved agencies, we can tell that concrete solutions are underway,” assured Secretary Acuzar. Earlier this year, the housing czar engaged leaders and members of UPAC in an open dialogue to tackle concerns of different urban poor organizations and align their recommendations to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program. UPAC which represents 205,000 families from various groups, headed by lead facilitator Alice Murphy, vowed to work closely with the government to properly implement any approved provisions under 4PH. The post DHSUD, UPAC create group to solve housing issues appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DHSUD, urban poor activate TWG to address shelter woes
Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar on Sunday said the DSHUD and the Urban Poor Action Committee (UPAC) recently activated a technical working group (TWG) that will harmonize efforts in providing decent shelters to more Filipinos, particularly the underprivileged. “The creation of this TWG was in response to the clamor of urban poor groups. It will primarily focus on issues that remain unresolved for decades now. I can see complexities on the concerns but by uniting and helping each other, we can find ways to appropriately address gaps in the sector,” Acuzar said. The TWG, with member representatives from DHSUD, UPAC, National Housing Authority, and Social Housing Finance Corporation, aims to craft measures for immediate implementation of programs that will make public housing more accessible to the underserviced sectors, particularly the urban poor. "Ito po ay nagpapatunay na ang Marcos administration at ang DHSUD ay nakikinig sa lahat ng stakeholders, at inuuna po natin ang mga kababayan nating mahihirap," Acuzar explained. Members of urban poor groups consist of informal settler families, residents living near danger zones, especially in river banks and coastal areas, and beneficiaries of government housing programs. During its first meeting Thursday, led by Assistant Secretary Daryll Bryan Villanueva, the discussion identified the functions of each group to move toward effectively resolving various housing resettlement concerns. The TWG also tackled UPAC’s People’s Plan which proposes a more participative and solution-based housing plan involving the beneficiaries from planning to program sustainability plans. “We also see challenges on the implementation of previously issued presidential proclamations and NHA housing projects. But with this TWG and our working relationship with involved agencies, we can tell that concrete solutions are underway,” Acuzar said. Earlier this year, the housing czar engaged leaders and members of UPAC in an open dialogue to tackle concerns of different urban poor organizations and align their recommendations to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program. UPAC, which represents 205,000 families from various groups headed by lead facilitator Alice Murphy, vowed to work closely with the government to properly implement any approved provisions under 4PH. The post DHSUD, urban poor activate TWG to address shelter woes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
OP budget breezes through House
Owing to a “parliamentary courtesy,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s P10.70 billion proposed budget for his office for 2024 swept through the House committee on appropriations on Tuesday in less than 40 minutes. Tensions flared, however, when members of the Makabayan bloc tried — but failed — to oppose the termination of the deliberations without scrutinizing the OP’s budget. “The highest form of courtesy in this country should be extended to the Filipino people, that the people have the right to know how the public funds are spent, and that should prevail at all times,” Kabataan Rep. Raoul Manuel said in his manifestation. ACT Teachers Partylist Rep. France Castro first objected to Abra Rep. Ching Bernos’ motion to terminate the hearing but later withdrew, prompting Manuel to intervene to make their manifestation first before ending the budget deliberations. “I don’t believe that it’s proper for us to terminate the deliberations without the manifestations becoming part of the records of the House. We should give the members their right and the time to pursue their objections. We can’t rush it again, Madam Chair. Again, the budget that is being discussed here is the Office of the President,” Manuel said. Presiding chairperson Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo, however, carried Bernos’ motion and terminated the hearing before allowing the members of the Makabayan bloc to raise their concerns in a two-minute manifestation. “At the point that the objection was withdrawn, then automatically the motion to terminate the budget briefing was carried,” Quimbo said. The three-member Makabayan bloc, namely, Manuel, Castro and Gabriela Partylist Rep. Arlene Brosas, mainly argued why the OP approved the P1.25-million confidential funds of Vice President Sara Duterte notwithstanding that it was excluded under the General Appropriations Act in 2022. Excessive travel expenses They also questioned the “excessive” travel expenses of the OP worth P1.15 billion and its P4.5-billion confidential and intelligence funds. “Regarding the confidential and intelligence funds, for the record, there are many of our compatriots do not agree with this, given the record high confidential funds of the Office of the Vice President. But if we compare the OP’s CIF, it is significantly larger (than the OVP),” Manuel stressed. Manuel said the confidential funds under the OP are P2.25 billion, while the intelligence funds are P2.31 billion. In total, he said, the CIF constitutes 43 percent of the OP’s proposed budget. Echoing Manuel, Castro, meanwhile, argued that instead of giving the OP a “courtesy” and “respect,” members of Congress must not allow secrecy and silence to prevail when the concerns of the Filipino people are too loud and echoing. “Why are there billions in secret funds when the urgent needs for aid, free education and medical services, affordable housing, and so on are piling up?” Castro said. The teacher solon also quizzed the OP if their P4.56 billion CIF would lower the price of rice, other food in the market, electricity, water, and basic commodities. According to Castro, the OP must not go with the CIF trend, which first ballooned during the Duterte administration, as it goes against the Constitution and deprives the Filipinos of transparency and full public disclosure. “This trend must not continue. This is against the policies of transparency and full public disclosure especially in matters related to public money, the government’s obligation to fight graft, corruption, plunder, and other hocus pocus on the public’s wealth, and other mandates of the Constitution,” she said. Black budget We believe that the refusal of the OP, as well as the OVP, to undergo public deliberations regarding their budget especially their confidential and intelligence funds is just one of the increasing reasons why instead of approving their ‘black budgets,’ they should even be abolished.” The post OP budget breezes through House appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
OP budget sails through House, Makabayan tries to oppose termination of deliberations
Owing to a "parliamentary courtesy," President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s P10.70 billion proposed budget for his office for 2024 swept through the House Committee on Appropriations on Tuesday in less than 40 minutes. Tensions flared, however, when members of the Makabayan bloc tried--but failed—to oppose the termination of the deliberations without scrutinizing the OP's budget. "The highest form of courtesy in this country should be extended to the Filipino people, that the people have the right to know how the public funds are spent, and that should prevail at all times," Kabataan Rep. Raoul Manuel said in his manifestation. ACT Teachers Partylist Rep. France Castro first objected to Abra Rep. Ching Bernos' motion to terminate the hearing but later withdrew, prompting Manuel to intervene to make their manifestation first before ending the budget deliberations. "I don't believe that it's proper for us to terminate the deliberations without the manifestations becoming part of the records of the House. We should give the members their right and the time to pursue their objections. We can't rush it again, Madam Chair. Again, the budget that is being discussed here is the Office of the President," Manuel said. Presiding chairperson Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo, however, carried Bernos’ motion and terminated the hearing before allowing the members of the Makabayan bloc to raise their concerns in a two-minute manifestation. “At the point that the objection was withdrawn, then automatically the motion to terminate the budget briefing was carried,” Quimbo said. The three-member Makabayan bloc, namely, Manuel, Castro and Gabriela Partylist Rep. Arlene Brosas, mainly argued why the OP approved the P1.25 million confidential funds of Vice President Sara Duterte notwithstanding that it was excluded under the General Appropriations Act in 2022. They also questioned the “excessive” travel expenses of the OP worth P1.15 billion and its P4.5-billion confidential and intelligence funds. “Regarding the confidential and intelligence funds, for the record, there are many of our compatriots who do not agree with this, given the record high confidential funds of the Office of the Vice President. But if we compare the OP's CIF, it is significantly larger [than the OVP],” Manuel stressed. Manuel said the confidential funds under the OP are P2.25 billion, while the intelligence funds are P2.31 billion. In total, he said, the CIF constitutes 43 percent of the OP's proposed budget. Echoing Manuel, Castro, meanwhile, argued that instead of giving the OP “courtesy” and “respect,” members of Congress must not allow secrecy and silence to prevail when the concerns of the Filipino people are too loud and echoing. “Why are there billions in secret funds when the urgent needs for aid, free education and medical services, affordable housing, and so on are piling up? Castro said. The teacher solon also quizzed the OP if their P4.56 billion CIF would lower the price of rice, other food in the market, electricity, water, and basic commodities. According to Castro, the OP must not go with the CIF trend, which first ballooned during the Duterte administration, as it goes against the Constitution and deprives Filipinos of transparency and full public disclosure. “This trend must not continue. This is against the policies of transparency and full public disclosure especially in matters related to public money, the government's obligation to fight graft, corruption, plunder, and other hocus pocus on the public's wealth, and other mandates of the Constitution,” she said. “ "We believe that the refusal of the OP, as well as the OVP, to undergo public deliberations regarding their budget especially their confidential and intelligence funds is just one of the increasing reasons why instead of approving their ‘black budgets,’ they should even be abolished.” In a similar vein, Brosas voiced concern that Mr. Marcos may have a hand in the unprogrammed funds and even the special purpose funds, given that the P4.5 billion confidential and intelligence funds are only part of the more than P1 trillion funds that the President will control next year. "The numbers are overwhelming, but at the end of the day, the Filipino people are making ends meet while Marcos Jr. has more than P1 trillion under his control," Brosas said. Panel chairperson, Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Elizaldy Co, prior to the manifestation of the Makabayan bloc members, stressed the importance of the role of the OP, saying it “bears the immense duty of upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, and preserving the unity and welfare of our nation.” “The presidency is not merely a symbolic figurehead or a ceremonial role; rather, it is the epicenter of governance, the fulcrum upon which the entire nation pivots. It is a position laden with responsibilities, obligations, and the immense weight of leadership,” Co said. The post OP budget sails through House, Makabayan tries to oppose termination of deliberations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
IACT suspends revised departure rules for Filipino travelers
The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) convened a special council meeting yesterday to address concerns surrounding the "2023 Revised IACAT Guidelines on Departure Formalities for International-Bound Filipino Passengers" (2023 Revised Guidelines). The primary agenda of the special meeting was to deliberate on and approve a resolution suspending the implementation of the 2023 Revised Guidelines. After careful deliberation, the IACAT Council approved the resolution, formally suspending the implementation of the 2023 Revised Guidelines. The meeting further resolved that the IACAT shall revisit the 2023 Guidelines and shall further strengthen its information and education campaign to convey to the public the essential purpose and grave concerns that the 2023 Guidelines seek to address. The decision to suspend the implementation of the 2023 Revised Guidelines is the council's response to concerns raised by the public and underscores its dedication not only to protect Filipino citizens against trafficking but also to clearly inform them of the protective mechanisms in place and how they work. During the open forum that preceded the resolution's approval, all member agencies present expressed their shared and continued commitment to the fight against human trafficking and underscored that the Guidelines were intended to be a tool to enhance screening procedures against untruthful declarations; thus, protecting Filipino nationals from becoming victims of this heinous crime. Likewise, they recognized the importance of striking a balance between safeguarding the individual’s right to travel and ensuring national security. The Council remains committed to working collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders, including the legislature, other government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international partners, to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach to combatting human trafficking in all its forms. The post IACT suspends revised departure rules for Filipino travelers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gov’t seeks Indon capital
Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno presented to Indonesia’s business community the Philippine economic plans for securing investments in infrastructure, energy and technology. In a statement by the Department of Finance on Thursday, it said Diokno conducted the talk in Jakarta City on Wednesday ahead of the 10th ASEAN Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting from 24 to 25 August. The listeners included members of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Philippine Business Club Indonesia, and officials of foreign embassies in Jakarta. Diokno said the Philippine lawmakers are now studying all measures for faster public-private partnerships or PPPs as the Marcos administration aims to build 197 infrastructure flagship projects, including railways, airports and water management, among others. PPP crucial “The PPP Act, which is currently pending in the Senate, consolidates all legal frameworks on PPP and creates a unified system for investors to refer to when engaging in PPP projects,” DoF said. To build more capital for Philippine infrastructure development and diversify investment channels, Diokno said government agencies are now crafting the rules and regulations of the Maharlika Investment Fund. “This is the Philippines’ first sovereign investment fund that will serve as a platform for investors to engage in direct equity investments in Philippine ventures,” he said. Diokno said both the legislative proposal and newly approved sovereign fund will support economic expansion from liberalized investment laws passed by the previous Duterte administration. Diokno shared amendments to the Public Service Act which now allows full foreign ownership from 40 percent previously of various businesses, such as airlines and telecommunications. Amid growing concerns with climate change, the finance chief said this applies also to renewable energy facilities, such as solar plants. Indonesia, along with China and India, is among the world’s largest exporter of coal, according to the International Energy Agency. However, Indonesia vowed to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2060, while it is 2050 for the Philippines. To ensure efficient management and profitability of infrastructure, Diokno said the government also eased processes for foreign investors under the Build-Operate-Transfer Law. “To help foster the development of high quality, modern, and sustainable infrastructure in the country, we wasted no time in building a fertile business and investment ecosystem for private players,” Diokno said. The post Gov’t seeks Indon capital appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gibo requests on MUP acceptable — solon
Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, chairperson of the House ad hoc committee on Military and Uniformed Personnel created to resolve issues plaguing its pension system, is buying Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro’s proposals in the bill recently approved by his panel and vowed that his concerns will still be accepted. “As chair of the Ad Hoc Committee, I would like to assure the Secretary that his requests are acceptable. We will adopt the Teodoro proposal of indexation for all retired and retirables and a transitioned contribution scheme,” Salceda said in a text message to reporters. While the deliberations on the panel-approved bill were already terminated, Salceda assured that Teodoro’s amendments would still be introduced to the plenary floor. “My job is to get a bill that will work fiscally but is also acceptable to all stakeholders. So, of course, if Secretary Teodoro has major concerns, part of my job is to accommodate. Not without DoF (Department of Finance) concerns, of course, but that’s for them to settle in the Cabinet,” the economist-lawmaker said. Salceda made the assurance days after the Defense chief raised concerns on a substitute bill, in the consolidation of other measures, all intended to propose reforms in the MUP pensions system, such as the mandatory contribution, that hurdled Salceda’s panel. Teodoro opposed the measure, saying it does not conform to the national government’s intent concerning the MUPs’ pension. The Defense chief believes that the imposition of mandatory monthly contributions “without a transition phase will definitely have an impact on our soldiers.” Under the panel-approved bill, those in active service will be required to contribute 5 percent of their base and longevity pay during the first to three years of the MUP pension reform implementation, 7 percent in the fourth to sixth year, and 9 percent in the seventh year onward. The government will contribute its counterpart 16 percent to the pension fund of those in active service during the first three years, 14 percent during the fourth to sixth year, and 12 percent in the seventh year onward. But for Teodoro, soldiers’ pensions and entitlements, including the 100-percent automatic indexation, shall remain unchanged. The MUP pension system, which the DoF has earlier warned is fiscally unsustainable, was among President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s priority legislation. Mr. Marcos wants Congress to reform the pension system by passing his proposed MUP pension law, which he listed as one of his priority legislation in his second State of the Nation Address. Salceda, however, explained that only new entrants would contribute 9 percent with a government counterpart of 12 percent. “And I will heed the request for full indexation for those who are retired and due for retirement,” he said. “Of course, the proposal will add some 1.2 trillion more to the actuarial reserve deficiency from the current 2.2 trillion under the current substitute bill.” According to the solon, they will still clarify the request with the DoF and the DND since they are hearing clarifications that they just want to ensure that those who have given 20 years of service or more will not pay contributions or be subject to lower indexation. “Our initial impression from the statement is that they don’t want anybody from the active service to pay any contribution or to give up any amount of indexation,” he stressed. “I would also like to remind all stakeholders that the aim of fiscal sustainability is to ensure that the pension system is substantially preserved in a way that can still be guaranteed by the State. In other words, a reform that is not too expensive, but also not too disruptive,” he added. Further, he said that there could be some pushback from the DoF and the economic managers on Teodoro’s proposal. So, we hope that within the executive, they will sort their position out.” The post Gibo requests on MUP acceptable — solon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
San Francisco launches driverless bus service following robotaxi expansion
SAN FRANCISCO — First came the robotaxis. Then the driverless buses arrived. San Francisco has launched an autonomous shuttle service – less than a week after California regulators approved the expansion of robotaxis despite traffic and safety concerns. The free shuttle will run daily in a fixed route called the Loop around Treasure Island, the site of The post San Francisco launches driverless bus service following robotaxi expansion appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Kalayaan declares Chinese envoy persona non grata
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — The municipal council of Kalayaan unanimously approved Wednesday a measure declaring Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian persona non grata, signifying their strong opposition to his presence in their area at any time. Councilor Maurice Philip Alexis Albayda’s resolution will be forwarded to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Senate, and the Chinese Embassy in Manila to convey the sentiments of the island town. Albayda said this will serve to inform high government officials of their feelings and to make Xilian aware of their strong concerns regarding his country’s oppressive actions in the West Philippine Sea, where their hometown Kalayaan is located. The resolution was prompted by the 5 August incident during which China Coast Guard ships attempted to ram and used a water cannon on two supply boats being escorted by the Philippine Coast Guard. Albayda said the aggressive behavior by China not only put the lives of the supply boats’ crew and passengers at risk but also of the crew aboard the escorting PCG’s BRP Cabra who included three Kalayaan residents. “Did you know that we had fellow Kalayaan residents on board the BRP Cabra? Yes, they were there,” he said. “Without a doubt, the actions of our neighboring country are truly infuriating.” The Kalayaan residents were en route to Lawak Island at the time to build a shelter for coastal enforcers, he said. “I want to propose that we declare Ambassador Huang Xilian persona non grata in the town of Kalayaan, the only town in the West Philippine Sea,” Albayda said in his privilege speech shortly before the resolution was passed. Albayda also said he was calling on the DFA to downgrade the Philippines’ diplomatic relationship with China given what it is doing in ignoring the safety of the people in the WPS. Kalayaan Vice Mayor Beltzasar Alindogan supported Albayda’s move declaring Xilian persona non grata. “I’ve personally experienced China’s harassment, like being driven away, but the situation with the two supply boats was much more intense,” Alindogan said, emphasizing that Kalayaan should also communicate to China their strong disapproval of its actions. He said he has volunteered to join the reservists and encouraged the military to conduct training on Pag-asa Island, to allow residents to display their patriotism. Former Kalayaan Mayor Joel Bito-onon, who is now a municipal councilor, also voted to approve the declaration against Xilian, but cautioned that it might jeopardize diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines given what happened in the past when two government officials were denied entry to Hong Kong. “Since way back, I’ve thought that due to China’s deceptive behavior, very deceitful. They say one thing, do another. I’ve seen countless instances on YouTube of them overturning ships, like what they did to Vietnam. I’ve wondered when that will happen in the Philippines. And now, this incident with our supply boats, it’s the worst that I have seen so far,” Bito-onon said. “But I’m thinking, maybe we should add a bit more wisdom, because you might end up like me, being told not to go to any city in China,” he added. Meanwhile, Senator Francis Escudero on Wednesday said he will propose the allocation of at least P100 million in the 2024 national budget to fund the construction of permanent structures at the Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea “to strengthen the country’s presence in the contested maritime territory.” “I will propose the allocation of a minimum of P100 million to fund the construction of a pier and lodging structures for our soldiers assigned in the area, and for our fishermen who might seek temporary refuge in times of bad weather,” Escudero told the Senate reporters. The senator said the structures could serve as permanent lodging for military personnel stationed at the old BRP Sierra Madre, a warship intentionally grounded in the shoal in 1999 as a Philippine military outpost. It can also serve as temporary shelter for foreign fishermen “who will be caught in bad weather” in the waters. Lade JEAn Kabagani @tribunephl_Lade The post Kalayaan declares Chinese envoy persona non grata appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
German govt okays plan to legalize recreational cannabis
The German government approved a draft law Wednesday legalizing the purchase and possession of small amounts of cannabis for recreational use, despite criticism from opposition politicians and judges. The bill, which still needs to go through parliament, would allow adults to possess up to 25 grams (0.9 ounces) of cannabis and grow up to three plants for personal use. People will also be allowed to join non-profit "cannabis clubs" of up to 500 members where the drug can be legally cultivated and purchased. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach called the draft law "a turning point" in Germany's attitude towards cannabis. The more relaxed approach would crack down on the black market and drug-related crime, ease the burden on law enforcement and allow for safer consumption of marijuana, he said in a statement. Minors will still be prohibited from using the drug, and the government will launch a campaign warning of the health risks for young people especially, he added. "Nobody should misunderstand the law. Cannabis use will be legalized. But it's still dangerous," Lauterbach said. The proposed legislation is a flagship project of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's three-party coalition and would leave Germany with one of the most liberal cannabis policies in Europe. But the draft law is less ambitious than what was originally envisioned. Plans to allow the widespread sale of cannabis in licensed stores were dropped in April after the European Commission raised concerns. The post German govt okays plan to legalize recreational cannabis appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DoLE targets full budget utilization
The Department of Labor and Employment announced on Tuesday that it targets 100 percent budget utilization by the end of the year. Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said that the department has a catch-up plan to ensure that all available funds are utilized, while ensuring that they go to proper beneficiaries and comply with documentary requirements. “The most important thing is to ensure that the beneficiaries are eligible and in need,” Laguesma said. He also confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had approved the Labor and Employment Plan which is expected to be rolled out in September — is a five-year plan that outlines the department’s priorities for the next five years. It focuses on four key areas, such as creating jobs; protecting workers’ rights; promoting social dialogue; and building a resilient labor force. Laguesma said the LEP will be implemented in coordination with other government agencies and stakeholders. “We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the LEP is successful,” Laguesma said. The Labor secretary also addressed concerns about labor displacement due to suspending reclamation activities in Manila Bay as narrated that the agency has not received any reports of affected workers but is prepared to assist if needed. The post DoLE targets full budget utilization appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Baguio councilors seek revised charter nullification
BAGUIO CITY — City councilors here approved a resolution requesting the Baguio City Legal Office to draft a petition against the declaration of the revised City Charter of Baguio in an overtime session last Monday. The revised City Charter of Baguio or Republic Act 11689 lapsed into law on 11 April 2022 and was enacted by the 18th Congress of the Philippine House of Congress. The law was enacted into law originally as House Bill 8882 filed by Baguio City Lone District Representative Mark Go. The Baguio councilors stressed that the revised charter is more of a disadvantage to the city rather than a feasible one. In March last year, the city’s local legislators passed a resolution requesting for then President Rodrigo Duterte to veto it. One of the concerns the councilors is raising is the Section 55 regarding the Camp John Hay reservation which is under the Bases Conversion Development Authority where it states that the CJH Reservation covering a total land area of 6,254,105 square meters subject to final survey, which was transferred to the BCDA by virtue of Republic Act 7227, as amended, otherwise known as the “Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992,” as amended is not part of the Baguio Townsite Reservation. The post Baguio councilors seek revised charter nullification appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»