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SC acquits 2 in drug case over mishandled evidence
Two persons convicted of illegal drugs have been acquitted by the Supreme Court (SC) due to lapses in the handling of evidence against them......»»
Janet Napoles found guilty of 8 graft, malversation raps; given 64 yrs in jail
MANILA, Philippines — Janet Napoles, the alleged mastermind behind the pork barrel scam, is found guilty of eight charges of graft and malversation, the Sandiganbayan said on Friday, Oct. 20. Napoles, together with former National Agribusiness Corporation (Nabcor) officials Rhodora Mendoza, Victor Cacal, and Maria Ninez Guañizo, were also found guilty of graft and malversation charges. Napoles was proven to have violated Republic Act (RA) 3019 or Anti-graft and Practices Act. “The court finds accused Rhodora B. Mendoza, Maria Ninez P. Guanizo, Victor Roman C. Cacal, and Janet L. Napoles guilty beyond reasonable doubt of violation of Section 3(e) of RA 3019, as amended, and are hereby sentenced to suffer the indeterminate penalty of imprisonment of six years and one month, as a minimum, to 10 years, as maximum, and to suffer perpetual disqualification from holding public office,” reads the decision from the Special Second Division of the anti-graft court. Napoles and the Nabcor officials were found guilty of four counts of corruption, and four counts of malversation of public funds. Collectively, the charges translate to 64 years of imprisonment at the minimum and 82 years at most. Sandiganbayan also ordered Napoles to pay government P41 million in damages. Each malversation charge requires Napoles to pay the equivalent amount of money involved in the criminal offense. Meanwhile, former South Cotabato Representative Arthur Pingoy Jr. was acquitted of graft and malversation charges in the same court decision. RELATED STORIES Napoles cleared in one pork barrel case but convicted in another Sandiganbayan acquits Napoles in 16 graft raps over pork barrel scam ‘Janet Lim Napoles’ listed among convicts freed on good conduct.....»»
Argentina court acquits nuns of sex abuse
Two nuns and seven other female employees of an Argentine institute for deaf children were acquitted by a court Wednesday of sexual abuse and rape. The ruling, broadcast on public television, concluded a trial of two-and-a-half years in a case that has shocked the home country of Pope Francis. Two priests in charge of children at the Antonio Provolo center — Horacio Corbacho and Nicola Corradi — have been convicted and handed sentences of more than 40 years each for sexual abuse, including rape, of some 20 minors. The victims were aged four to 17 when the crimes were committed from 2004 to the closure of the institute in 2016. The institution’s gardener, Armando Gomez, has also been jailed for 18 years for sexual abuse, and a former altar boy pleaded guilty to the sexual abuse of five children. Several staff were taken into custody after allegations of abuse first surfaced in 2016, and the institute was shut down. The latest case focused on the alleged abuse of 11 of the children. In the dock were Japanese nun Kumiko Kosaka and Paraguayan Asuncion Martinez, as well as a former cook, a psychologist, a legal representative and school director, and three other employees. Kosaka stood accused of aggravated sexual abuse and covering up the crimes, and Martinez of “corruption of minors,” among other alleged offenses. A panel of three judges on Wednesday acquitted Kosaka, Martinez, and all seven others. Ariel Lizarraga, father of one of the accusers, described the outcome as “total injustice.” The post Argentina court acquits nuns of sex abuse appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CCTV footage leads to ‘lookout,’ Baptist bishop in Cagayan de Oro murder case
Documents show that a key witness identified an associate of Bishop Dimver Andales as the alleged lookout in CCTV footage obtained by the police.....»»
Governor’s fight vs EDCA
Despite political pressure, Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba continues to oppose the Enhanced Defense Cooperative Agreement or EDCA sites in his province. Since April this year, he has been announcing publicly his opposition. Mamba also urged Cagayanos to make a united stand and voice their opposition following the announcement by the Presidential Communications Office that EDCA sites were to be established at Naval Base Camilo Osias in Santa Ana and the Lal-lo Airport in the province. I had a chance to meet Mamba last 25 August, and he said he is against any form of neo-colonialism, which is perhaps why he is not in favor of having American military personnel, facilities, and structures in the country, particularly in his province. During the occasion, he was also commended by a retired Philippine National Police general. I suppose we are aware that Governor Mamba is under heavy political oppression due to his opposition to PH-US military relations and new EDCA sites. To Cagayanos, Governor Mamba is undoubtedly the national hero of the new century because his courage and determination are worthy of admiration. Observers said his opposition to the military ties with the US and the new EDCA sites had alienated him from President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., to whom he was once close. In early May, in reaction to Governor Mamba’s opposition to the new EDCA sites, House Speaker Martin Romualdez reiterated that the President’s determination to strengthen cooperation with the US with new EDCA sites was “unshakable.” There were rumors the Speaker asked the Governor to keep quiet on the matter. To Governor Mamba’s supporters, this was a severe warning and a humiliation from the President and the US. On 9 February this year, US embassy personnel met with an assistant of Cagayan Vice Governor Melvin Vargas, named Agatep, mainly to get an update on Governor Mamba’s alleged “irregular vote buying” in the last election. During the meeting, dissatisfaction was expressed with the Governor’s public opposition to the new EDCA sites in Cagayan. Well, should the vote-buying case push through, what could we expect? Should Governor Mamba’s election be overturned, Vice Governor Vargas, who supports the PH-US alliance, would be the likely successor. A friend from the north told me that Katrina Enrile, like her father Juan Ponce Enrile, the Presidential Chief Legal Adviser, is pro-EDCA. To eliminate the local opposition to EDCA, Katrina Enrile allied with Governor Mamba’s political rivals — Vice Governor Vargas and the Lara family. Vice Governor Vargas met with Katrina Enrile on 19 April and stated that he had garnered the support of a majority of the provincial officials regarding the establishment of the two EDCA sites in Cagayan. The new EDCA sites were the President’s decision, and they should not speculate on this. Katrina Enrile’s efforts paid off, as the President appointed her Administrator and Chief Executive Officer of CEZA, the office that manages the Cagayan Special Economic Zone. Interestingly, the Cagayan Special Economic Zone Act of 1995 was proposed and drafted by Juan Ponce Enrile. On 7 April, representatives of the US government met with Mayor Florant Pascual of Lal-lo and president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines-Cagayan Chapter. During the meeting, the American government promised to carry out energy projects through USAID and provide local assistance in exchange for Pascual’s support of the new EDCA sites. On 20 April, Pascual and 18 other mayors publicly announced their support for the new EDCA sites in Cagayan. Soon after, on 15 June, USAID representatives visited the Philippines and announced a $65-million fund for Cagayan and Isabela to support local energy planning and introduce renewable energy technologies, such as solar roofs. The US embassy said the communities near the new EDCA sites in Santa Ana and Lal-lo would also benefit from the grant. The post Governor’s fight vs EDCA appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pasig court acquits Ressa, Rappler of final tax evasion case
Nobel laureate Maria Ressa and Rappler Holdings Corporation (RHC) have been acquitted, Sept. 12, of the remaining tax evasion charges filed against them by the previous administration. The post Pasig court acquits Ressa, Rappler of final tax evasion case appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
PAGASA: Goring continuing to weaken
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration on Monday said “Goring” continues to weaken while moving north-northeastward over the Philippine Sea. Heavy rainfall due to “Goring” is still expected in the northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan by Monday with 50 to 100 millimeters of rain pouring expected over the Batanes, Babuyan Islands and the northern portions of mainland Cagayan, Apayao, and Ilocos Norte by Tuesday. Batanes will have greater than 200 mm raindrops on Wednesday, including Babuyan Island at 100 to 200 mm while 50-100 mm rains are expected in the northern portions of mainland Cagayan, Apayao, and Ilocos Norte. PAGASA said the southwest monsoon enhanced by “Goring” meanwhile brings occasional or monsoon rains over the western portions of Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, and Visayas over the next three days. “Goring” is forecast to maintain its strength or may slightly weaken further in the next 12 hours due to the upwelling of cooler ocean waters and the onset of dry air intrusion before re-intensifying as it turns northwestward. The weather disturbance may pass close to Batanes at or near its peak intensity. PAGASA said interaction with the rugged terrain of Taiwan during its close approach will result in a weakening trend beginning by late Wednesday. Typhoon “Goring” was last tracked at 245 km East Northeast of Casiguran, Aurora, packing maximum sustained winds of 155 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 190 kph. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal no. 1 remains hoisted over the Batanes, Babuyan Islands, the northern and eastern portions of mainland Cagayan (Camalaniugan, Pamplona, Gonzaga, Santa Teresita, Baggao, Buguey, Santa Ana, Claveria, Aparri, Ballesteros, Abulug, Sanchez-Mira, Santa Praxedes, Allacapan, Lal-Lo, Lasam, Peñablanca, Iguig, Amulung, Gattaran, Alcala), the eastern portion of Isabela (Dinapigue, San Mariano, San Guillermo, Ilagan City, Tumauini, San Pablo, Cabagan, Maconacon, Divilacan, Palanan), the northern and central portions of Aurora (Casiguran, Dinalungan, Dilasag, Baler, Dipaculao, Maria Aurora, San Luis), Polillo Islands, the northern and eastern portions of Camarines Norte (Capalonga, Jose Panganiban, Paracale, Vinzons, Talisay, Daet, Mercedes) including Calaguas Islands, the northeastern portion of Camarines Sur (Siruma, Tinambac, Lagonoy, Garchitorena, Caramoan), and the northern portion of Catanduanes (Panganiban, Caramoran, Viga, Bagamanoc, Pandan). The post PAGASA: Goring continuing to weaken appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Portions of Cagayan, Isabela under Signal No. 3 due to Typhoon “Goring”
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration on Saturday raised Signal No. 3 over portions of Cagayan and Isabela, as Typhoon "Goring" steadily intensifies as it moves southwestward over the sea east of Cagayan. In its latest weather bulletin, PAGASA said Goring was last spotted 145 kilometers per hour (kph) East Northeast of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, packing maximum sustained winds of 155 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gusts of 190 kph. PAGASA raised Signal No. 3 over the northeastern portion of Cagayan (Santa Ana) and the extreme eastern portion of Isabela (Divilacan, Palanan). While Signal No. 2, where PAGASA said winds of greater than 62 kph and up to 88 kph may be expected in at least 24 hours, was also raised over the eastern portion of Isabela (Dinapigue, San Mariano, Ilagan City, Maconacon, Cabagan, Tumauini, San Pablo); eastern portion of Cagayan (Peñablanca, Baggao, Gattaran, Lal-Lo, Gonzaga, Santa Teresita, Buguey); and the northern portion of Aurora (Dilasag, Casiguran). Also PAGASA, placed under Signal No. 1, where winds of 39 to 61 kph or intermittent rains may be expected in at least 36 hours over the Batanes; the rest of Cagayan including Babuyan Islands; Central portion of Aurora (Dinalungan, Dipaculao); Quirino; the rest of Isabela; Apayao; eastern portion of Nueva Vizcaya (Kasibu, Quezon, Diadi, Bagabag, Solano, Villaverde); eastern portion of Ifugao (Lamut, Lagawe, Hingyon, Banaue, Mayoyao, Aguinaldo, Alfonso Lista); eastern portion of Mountain Province (Barlig, Natonin, Paracelis); and Kalinga. PAGASA said moderate to significant impacts from storm-force winds may be experienced within the areas under Wind Signal No. 3. Minor to moderate impacts from gale-force winds are possible within any of the areas where Wind Signal No. 2 is in effect while minimal to minor impacts from strong winds are also possible within any of the areas where Wind Signal No. 1 is hoisted. Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon enhanced by “Goring” will bring occasional or monsoon rains over the western portions of Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, and Visayas over the next three days. This weather condition will also bring gusty conditions over the following areas not under any Wind Signal, especially in coastal and upland/mountainous areas exposed to winds including Bataan, Metro Manila, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Bicol Region, Visayas, Dinagat Islands, and Camiguin on Sunday. On Monday, gusty conditions will prevail in Bataan, Metro Manila, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Bicol Region, Visayas, Dinagat Islands, Camiguin, and most of Zamboanga Peninsula. PAGASA said a Gale Warning is in effect for the northern and eastern coastal waters of Luzon. Thus, sea travel is risky for certain types or tonnage of vessels over these areas. Typhoon "Goring" is forecast to move generally southward to southeastward in the next 24 hours before turning east-northeastward to northeastward on Monday. Afterward, the typhoon will exit its looping path and move northwestward on Tuesday toward the sea east of Taiwan while moving at a consistent pace. Due to the highly favorable environment, PAGASA said “Goring” is forecast to steadily intensify throughout most of the forecast period and may reach the super typhoon category on Monday. PAGASA noted that the upwelling of cooler waters due to its slow movement will limit further intensification of “Goring” by late Monday or early Tuesday. The post Portions of Cagayan, Isabela under Signal No. 3 due to Typhoon “Goring” appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PNP wants calls, texts bared
The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs is considering amending Republic Act 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, to allow the disclosure of computer data, including the content of communications such as calls and text messages, of individuals who are subjects of case investigations. The suggestion came during a public hearing on the ambush of Aparri Vice Mayor Rommel Alameda in Nueva Vizcaya last 19 February. P/Lt. Col. Christopher Luyun, officer in charge of the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Unit of Cagayan Valley, cited restrictions in RA 10175 as one of the challenges in the investigation of the ambush attack against Alameda and five others. Luyun said they had applied for a warrant to disclose computer data from the phone number of Mayor Bryan Chan, who is among the persons of interest in the case. However, Globe Telecommunications, the service provider for Chan’s phone number, initially said they did not have the equipment to save traffic data. When the warrant was amended and reapplied, Globe submitted traffic but not content data. Traffic data refers to computer data other than the content of the communication, such as the communication’s origin, destination, route, time, date, size, duration, and type of underlying service. The post PNP wants calls, texts bared appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Dela Rosa: Amend cybercrime law to check suspects’ mobile data
The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs is eyeing amendments to Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 to allow the disclosure of computer data, including the content of calls or text messages by individuals who are subjects of case investigations. This suggestion came during Monday’s public hearing on the ambush of Aparri Vice Mayor Rommel Alameda in Nueva Vizcaya last 19 February, where Lt. Col. Christopher Luyun, officer in charge of the Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Unit of Cagayan Valley cited restrictions provided in RA 10175 as among the hurdles hampering the probe into the ambush of Alameda and five others. "We applied for a warrant to disclose computer data doon sa number ni Mayor Chan based sa affidavit ni Mrs. Alameda. However, noong una, sinagot ng (telecommunications firm) Globe na they don't have the equipment to save ‘yung traffic data. Pero nung inamend ‘yung warrant, nag-reapply kami Sir, nag-submit naman ‘yung Globe pero walang content" (At first, Globe responded saying they didn't have the equipment to save traffic data. But when we amended the warrant and reapplied, Globe submitted but there was no content), Luyun told the committee chaired by Sen. Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa. Aparri Mayor Bryan Chan was among the persons of interest in the attack on Alameda and his five companions in Purok 5, Sitio Kinakao, Baretbet, Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya. Under Section 14 of RA 10175, “law enforcement authorities, upon securing a court warrant, shall issue an order requiring any person or service provider to disclose or submit, within 72 hours from receipt of such order, subscriber’s information, traffic data or relevant data in his/its possession or control, in relation to a valid complaint officially docketed and assigned for investigation by law enforcement authorities, and the disclosure of which is necessary and relevant for the purpose of investigation.” Traffic data or non-content data refer to any computer data other than the content of the communication, including, but not limited to the communication’s origin, destination, route, time, date, size, duration or type of underlying service. "So maybe i-amend natin ‘yang batas na ‘yan na pagdating sa investigation ng isang krimen ay dapat obligado ang service provider like Globe to disclose to the investigating agencies ‘yung contents ng kanilang cellphone" (Maybe we should amend that law when it comes to the investigation of a crime, so service providers like Globe should be required to disclose to the investigating agencies the contents of their cellphone), Dela Rosa said. The committee also tackled several measures requiring the installation of closed-circuit television, the proposed Law Enforcement Body-worn Camera Act and the Checkpoint Regularization Act. The post Dela Rosa: Amend cybercrime law to check suspects’ mobile data appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Metrobank rewards 10 outstanding Pinoys P1-M each
Ten Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos, comprised of four teachers, three soldiers, and three police officers, are recognized for going beyond their duty and making a difference in the community. Recipients of this year’s career-service award for Filipino exemplars in the academe, military, and police sectors were presented to the public on Thursday, 3 August. Each of them will receive a cash prize of P1 million each (net of tax), a golden medallion, and “The Flame” trophy in a conferment ceremony on 29 August, ahead of the Metrobank’s anniversary celebration in September. Outstanding Filipinos embody the true meaning of “Beyond Excellence” as they go the extra mile in their chosen profession and selflessly extend a helping hand to those in need through their various service and community involvements while overcoming adversities and challenges. Bagging the 2023 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Award for Teachers are (1) Mr. Rex M. Sario, MAT, Master Teacher I/Teacher-in-Charge of Balogo Elementary School (Pangantucan, Bukidnon); (2) June Elias V. Patalinghug, EdD, Master Teacher II, Catalunan Grande Elementary School (Davao City); (3) Edgar R. Durana, MAEd, Master Teacher I/SPED Coordinator, Don Jose Ynares Memorial National High School (Binangonan, Rizal); and (4) Jovelyn G. Delosa, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Northern Bukidnon State College (Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon). To be conferred with the 2023 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Award for Soldiers are (5) Staff Sergeant Danilo S. Banquiao PA, Civil-Military Officer — Non-Commissioned Officer, 103rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army (Marawi City, Lanao del Sur); (6) Lieutenant Colonel Joseph J. Bitancur PAF, Assistant Commandant, Basic Military School, Air Education, Training, and Doctrine Command, Philippine Air Force (Lipa City, Batangas); and (7) Colonel Joseph Jeremias Cirilo C. Dator PA, Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations (G3), Presidential Security Group (City of Manila) (formerly Commanding Officer, 10th Military Intelligence Battalion, 10th Infantry Division in Mawab, Davao de Oro). Meanwhile, recipients of the 2023 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Award for Police Officers are (8) Police Chief Master Sergeant Dennis D. Bendo, Section Team Leader, District Mobile Force Battalion, Manila Police District (City of Manila); (9) Police Major Mae Ann R. Cunanan, Chief, Police Community Relations, Criminal Investigation, and Detection Group, Camp Crame (Quezon City) (formerly Chief, Case Monitoring Section, Regional Investigation and Detection Management Division, PRO 9 in Zamboanga City); and (10) Police Colonel Renell R. Sabaldica, Chief, Morale and Welfare Division, Directorate for Personnel and Records Management, Camp Crame (Quezon City) (formerly Provincial Director of Cagayan Police Provincial Office in Tuguegarao City). “Outstanding Filipinos inspire us to go beyond excellence and pursue a mission that is bigger than ourselves. This year’s batch proved to us how the competence of Filipinos combined with character and compassion can positively impact other people’s lives,” said Metrobank Foundation president Aniceto M. Sobrepeña. “Educators, peacekeepers, and defenders have chosen to render selfless service to the community and the country despite many adversities. We hope their examples and contributions to society create a ripple effect transcending generations,” he added. The post Metrobank rewards 10 outstanding Pinoys P1-M each appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ICC probe: Allow now, challenge later
The Philippines may just let the International Criminal Court’s investigation into the bloody drug war of the previous administration roll in the meantime and then challenge its jurisdiction later, according to Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez Thursday. The government, whose plea to block the probe fell on deaf ears, has high hopes the international tribunal would eventually grant its appeal to lay off the country. “The proper and only course of action for the Republic of the Philippines is to raise the issue of jurisdiction when the case is eventually filed in the ICC. Jurisdiction can be questioned at any stage of the proceedings,” said Rodriguez, a lawyer. “When the case is brought to the ICC, we raise the issue of jurisdiction, and the Philippines will surely secure its dismissal for lack of jurisdiction,” he added. Calls have been made to end the ICC’s probe into former President Rodrigo Duterte’s “war on drugs” that claimed thousands of lives during his six years in office that started in 2016. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has firmly maintained that the country would not engage with the ICC, insisting the government would not let the court interfere in the country’s business. ‘Oplan Tokhang’ Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who during the Duterte administration led the anti-drug campaign known as “Oplan Tokhang,” had previously said he was ready in case a warrant of arrest was served on him, but only if by Philippine authorities and not by any foreigner directed by the ICC. But for Rodriguez, the government officials concerned should compose themselves and study the ICC decision well. “There is no need for our government officials to make many extraneous comments on the decision,” he said. Some 6,000 persons were reportedly killed in Duterte’s drug war, according to government data, the majority of whom were from low-income families. However, local and international human rights organizations estimated the number of victims at more than 30,000. Meanwhile, senators expressed dismay at the ICC decision that turned down the Philippine appeal, saying there was no need for it since the Philippines has a “working justice system.” Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. on Thursday said the ICC should not be allowed to meddle in the country’s affairs. “We do not need to remind them that we are a free, independent, and sovereign nation governed by our laws,” he said. Revilla said that since Philippine government officials will be held liable for violations, the laws of the country should prevail and not of foreign prosecutors. “I am befuddled by the ICC’s pursuit of this obvious baseless persecution while legitimate concerns and crimes against humanity are being perpetrated in other parts of the world as we speak. It is obvious the ICC’s interest here is not justice but something else entirely,” he said. Operating very well Senator Mark Villar said there was no need for any international body to intervene in the country’s justice system, stressing that Philippine democracy is fully functioning. He said the Philippine justice system is “operating very well” and it could address its own human rights concerns. “Our government has a very strong justice system that is working so I don’t think we need international interference. We have our courts, we have a strong justice system, that’s what I believe,” Villar said in a recent interview. Aside from Duterte and Dela Rosa, the ICC report included Senator Christopher “Bong” Go and incumbent Vice President Sara Duterte in the probe. Unfazed Dela Rosa has remained unfazed by the ICC ruling and is even mulling another Senate term, although he said the ICC probe will affect a reelection bid. “Since I am identified with the former president, I may not get the votes. The votes I will get will be those in support of [former] president Duterte. But the support may even grow since many Filipinos are also angered by [the ICC’s] interference in our sovereignty, so its impact on my reelection bid may even be positive,” he said. Dela Rosa reiterated that the drug war was launched by the Duterte administration not for any personal gain but “to protect the Filipino people from the drug menace, especially our youth.” The post ICC probe: Allow now, challenge later appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Healthcare at the top of admin agenda, says Marcos
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that his government is working "relentlessly" to make sure that all Filipinos had access to health care as he intends to build more health centers in rural areas. The Chief Executive said this as he inspected the building of a new multi-specialty medical center in Clark, Pampanga, which he said was part of his administration's efforts to advance quality healthcare to Filipinos. "Rest assured, this administration is determined to bring quality healthcare and services closer to (the) Filipino people... We will not stop until every Filipino can say they have good access to quality healthcare," he said in his speech during Clark Multi-Specialty Medical Center's groundbreaking ceremony. “This is not a single project that stands on its own alone. This part of a larger system of healthcare provision that we are putting together to service our kababayans so that they don’t have to wait to get very, very sick before they go to the big hospitals,” he said during his speech. The President also underscored his goal of giving poor Filipinos access to medical treatments as he said that he wants the government to bring the healthcare down to the people. “We will establish rural healthcare units. We will establish barangay centers. We will establish botica de barangay,” Marcos said. He explained that the Covid-19 pandemic was part of the reason why his government puts healthcare at the top of its list of priorities, because the country needs to be ready in case there is another major health crisis. Marcos urged the public to be part of the solution when addressing healthcare problems and “put forward innovative alternatives that you believe can help uplift the lives of our fellowmen.” Once completed, the CMSMC is expected to receive patients not only from Pampanga and the Central Luzon region, but also from Metro Manila, Ilocos Region and the Cagayan Valley Region, Marcos said. Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said earlier that the medical center would be made through donations and funds from the government. Herbosa had said that the building will start out as a general hospital and then "move up to a children's specialty, then a cardiac specialty, then a kidney specialty." During his first State of the Nation Address, Marcos talked about how important specialty hospitals like the Philippine Heart Center, Philippine Lung Center, National Children's Hospital and National Kidney and Transplant Institute were, especially during the pandemic. Marcos said that the government has been looking for places to put specialty hospitals. He said that these hospitals shouldn't just be in Metro Manila, but also in the towns and provinces across the country. The post Healthcare at the top of admin agenda, says Marcos appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Solar-powered ice plant big boon to fishers, coastal communities
The fisheries industry has been plagued with challenges and the need for sustainable solutions, innovation often emerges as a ray of hope. Such is the case with Sahaya, a groundbreaking solar-powered ice plant that promises to revolutionize fisheries in the country. By providing a reliable and eco-friendly solution to the longstanding challenge of preserving fish freshness, Sahaya is promises to transform the lives of fishermen and uplift coastal communities across the globe. Last 23 June 2023, at Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City, AASC Technologies, a thoroughly Filipino agricultural innovation company based in Cagayan de Oro, unveiled its latest product now available for order across coastal regions in the country. Traditionally, ice plants have relied on fossil fuels to power their operations, leading to high operating costs and detrimental environmental impacts. Sahaya’s solar-powered ice plants aim to change that by harnessing the abundant and renewable energy of the sun. With a sleek design that incorporates photovoltaic panels, Sahaya ice plants can generate clean energy, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Sahaya is made perfect for off-grid coastal communities that rely on fishing for livelihood and sustenance. The post Solar-powered ice plant big boon to fishers, coastal communities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The great onion irony (1)
Recent developments in the onion industry seem irreconcilable even to an ordinary Juan. The Philippine Statistics Authority recently reported that onion production during the first quarter of 2023 was at 156.53-thousand metric tons. For the appreciation of consumers who only buy the cooking staple by the kilo, that is more than 156,000,000 kilograms of onions harvested by our lowly farmers in three months. The PSA said this was 6.4 percent higher than the 147.15-thousand metric ton output in the same quarter of last year. Herein lies the irony. Despite a high yield, the Department of Agriculture, in mid-May, announced that the country may re-import up to 22,000 metric tons of red and white onions if prices continued to rise in the market. The importation volume, according to Deputy Spox Asec. Rex Estoperez was based on the country’s monthly consumption. What happened to the 156,000,000 kilos of onions when the country consumes approximately 17,000 metric tons or 17,000,000 kilos of onions, a staple of local cooking, every month? Consider this, too — despite Filipinos grappling with skyrocketing prices of the staple bulb last year, the Agriculture department said 100,000 metric tons of onions went to waste in 2022. If there is a noble move to keep the prices of onions from kicking up, it is not through importation but by convening onion stakeholders, including onion farmers, and addressing the major factors behind the sudden price increases and the waste. Consumers will abhor a sequel of an episode that happened in mid and late 2022 when the price of the humble onion surged to around P700 per kilogram, which made it a luxury — even more expensive than beef. First-hand accounts of onion farmers from Central Luzon, the Ilocos Region, and Cagayan Valley highlight their challenges and plight. They incurred losses by having to sell their onions at a lower price, or they had to dispose of the excess crop as there were no appropriate storage facilities available. This resulted in tons of spoiled onions left on roadsides and riverbanks, which not only harms the environment but also causes further financial losses for small-scale farmers. It is crucial to provide support to farmers even after the harvest season, and failure to consider the entire value chain led to the wastage of the surplus onions. A 2018 report also tells of onion farmers in Nueva Ecija struggling with low prices and high costs of inputs like seeds and fertilizer, and competition from imported onions. Another 2020 report described the struggles of onion farmers in Ilocos Norte, who were unable to sell their crops due to a lack of buyers. They had invested significant time and resources into planting and growing their onions but were unable to profit from their efforts due to the difficulties in finding buyers in the market. Importing onions is just a Band-Aid solution to reduce onion prices. A myriad of factors, such as shortages, plant pests, climate conditions, inflation, and imports, have contributed to a significant increase in prices. Whether we like it or not, the case of the onion represents the sad story of smallholder farmers who are particularly vulnerable to the impact of these problems. Sustainable solutions are what we need. (To be continued) The post The great onion irony (1) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gov’t readying for ‘Mawar’
Malacañang on Tuesday assured the public that preparations are underway for the possible onslaught of severe tropical storm “Mawar.” “Mawar” is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility this weekend, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian said they are gathering food packages for approximately 30,000 to 50,000 families residing in the Ilocos and Cagayan Valley regions. These particular areas, located in northern Luzon, are anticipated to be in the trajectory of the approaching storm. “We’ve already started mobilizing as early as this weekend so the food packs will be there and then our field offices are now tasked to work with the local government units to see to it that the LGUs in those areas that may be affected know that the logistical support of the DSWD is around,” Gatchalian said. He added the DSWD field offices are coordinating with local government units for the distribution of food packs in their respective areas. “Mawar” may enter the PAR by Friday or Saturday, in which case it will be given the local name “Betty.” It was last tracked 2,300 kilometers away east of the Visayas. The post Gov’t readying for ‘Mawar’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Kuya Bong inaugurates Sta. Praxedes Super Health Center
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go continues efforts to help bring public health services closer to communities in far-flung areas as he traveled north of the country to personally attend the inauguration of the Super Health Center in Santa Praxedes, Cagayan last Thursday. Accompanied by local officials, including Vice Governor Melvin Vargas Jr., Sta. Praxedes Mayor Esterlina Aguinaldo and acting Vice Mayor Gil Buenavista, the senator reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to improve access to basic healthcare for those who need government attention the most. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The Department of Health — the lead implementing agency — identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. Services offered in Super Health Centers will include database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose and throat service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Apart from Sta. Praxedes, the DoH also identified other areas in Cagayan province where more Super Health Centers will be established, including Peñablanca, Sta. Teresita, Buguey, Aparri, Sto. Niño, Tuao and Lal-lo — the last one’s groundbreaking having been personally attended by Go later that day. Go also encouraged the public to take advantage of the services offered in the Malasakit Center located at Cagayan Valley Medical Center in Tuguegarao City. Following the inauguration, the lawmaker joined the celebration of Sarakat Festival at municipal hall grounds which is the annual celebration in Sta. Praxedes, commencing the feast of the patron saint of the town, St. Isidore de Labrador. During the festival, Go was honored as an adopted son of Sta. Praxedes. The resolution adopted by the Sangguniang Bayan on 8 May 2023 stated that Go “has been consistently giving various kind of assistance to the Local Government Unit of Sta. Praxedes for the past few years.” The senator also led a relief operation at the municipal gymnasium for 1,500 indigents. Go and his team distributed grocery packs, masks, vitamins, snacks and shirts while they also gave away bicycles, mobile phones, shoes, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. The post Kuya Bong inaugurates Sta. Praxedes Super Health Center appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go attends inauguration of SHC, joins Sarakat Festival festivities in Cagayan
Senator Bong Go continues efforts to help bring public health services closer to communities in far-flung areas as he traveled north of the country to personally attend the inauguration of the Super Health Center in Santa Praxedes, Cagayan on Thursday, 18 May. Accompanied by local officials, including Vice Governor Melvin “Boy” Vargas Jr., Sta. Praxedes Mayor Esterlina Aguinaldo and acting Vice Mayor Gil Buenavista, among others, the senator reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to improving access to basic healthcare for those who need government attention the most. “Bilang Chairman ng Committee on Health sa Senado, isa po sa aking priority (ay) ito pong Super Health Centers. Sa tulong po ng kasamahan ko sa Kongreso, sa DOH, at sa mga LGUs natin, mas mailalapit natin ang serbisyo medikal mula sa gobyerno sa mga taong nangangailangan nito,” Go explained. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. “Pwede i-expand yan ng LGU pagdating ng panahon. Kung gusto niyong lagyan ng dialysis machine, pwede po lagyan ng dialysis center,” he explained, adding that these centers will be turned over to and managed by the LGU upon construction. Apart from Sta. Praxedes, the DOH also identified other areas in Cagayan province where more Super Health Centers will be established, including Peñablanca, Sta. Teresita, Buguey, Aparri, Sto. Niño, Tuao, and Lal-lo — the last one’s groundbreaking having been personally attended by Go later that day. Go also encouraged the public to take advantage of the services offered in the Malasakit Center located at Cagayan Valley Medical Center in Tuguegarao City. “Meron na po tayong 157 Malasakit Center sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong po sa mga poor and indigent patients. Ang Malasakit Center po ay batas na, isinulong ko noon sa tulong ng mga kasamahan ko sa Kongreso, at pinirmahan ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte. Para po yan sa mga poor and indigent patients para matulungan kayo sa inyong mga medical expenses,” explained Go, who principally authored and sponsored Republic Act No. 11463. Following the inauguration, Go joined the celebration of the Sarakat Festival at the municipal hall grounds. The Sarakat Festival is the annual celebration in Sta. Praxedes, commencing the feast of the patron saint of the town, St. Isidore de Labrador. During the festival, Go was honored as an adopted son of Sta. Praxedes. The resolution adopted by the Sangguniang Bayan on 8 May 2023 stated that Go “has been consistently giving various kinds of assistance to the Local Government Unit of Sta. Praxedes for the past few years.” “Bilang inyong kasangga sa Senado, asahan niyo na ako ay tutulong sa inyong lugar sa abot ng aking makakaya. Araw at gabi po nagta-trabaho ako. Hindi ko kayang makitang naghihirap ang ating mga kababayan, di ko matiis na umupo lang sa opisina at magpalamig dahil ang bisyo ko talaga ay ang magserbisyo,” expressed Go. “Happy Sarakat Festival po sa inyo dito. At salamat po na in-adopt niyo ko, (naging) adopted son (ako) dito sa Sta. Praxedes. Ituring niyo po ako bilang isang kuya niyo, bilang kapatid niyo ho dito,” he said. The senator also led a relief operation at the municipal gymnasium for 1,500 indigents. Go and his team distributed grocery packs, masks, vitamins, snacks, and shirts while they also gave away bicycles, mobile phones, shoes, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise maintained that he will continue to contribute to the town’s progress as he earlier supported the construction of embankment protection, flood control, and slope protection structures. He also supported the acquisition of a dump truck for the community. After the event, the senator headed to Lal-lo where he witnessed the groundbreaking of another Super Health Center and also led another relief operation to more disadvantaged residents. The post Bong Go attends inauguration of SHC, joins Sarakat Festival festivities in Cagayan appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl-U.S. deal stands on its own — envoy
United States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson on Wednesday reiterated that the defense and security pact between Manila and Washington does not concern any country, including China. In a television interview, Carlson said the US commitment to the Philippines “stands on its own,” citing the Mutual Defense Treaty which was signed in 1951. “Our commitment to the Philippines stands on its own. Our relationship stands on its own. It’s not about any third country. It’s not about any single challenge,” Carlson told ANC. She added: “It’s not about China. It’s certainly not about China alone. It’s about what we do together and it dates back decades. Carlson issued the remarks after Beijing repeatedly criticized the increasing presence of American troops in the country amid the growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific Region. Last month, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin particularly lambasted the locations of four additional Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreements sites between Manila and Washington in the country. The locations are in Camilo Osias Naval Base in Sta. Ana town and Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo town, both in Cagayan province; Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela province; and Balabac, the southernmost island in Palawan province. ‘EDCA sites, not US sites’ In the same interview, Carlson clarified that EDCA sites are not an extension of American military sites in the Philippines. “These are not US bases, let’s get that straight first and foremost. These are Philippine military bases, where we provide funding and insert capital to make improvements that are to the benefit of the Philippine military,” she said. She added: “(It) would also be helpful to the US military in the event of any threat against either one of the two members of this mutual defense treaty alliance.” Asked whether the additional EDCA sites could be used for offensive operations, the American ambassador said, “it can be used for whatever the Philippine government invites the United States to do.” “These are not our sites. We do not have any rights to these sites. It’s not as if somehow somebody snaps a finger and all of a sudden everything is open to the United States,” she said. “Everything that we do in the Philippines is at the invitation of the Philippine government and particularly, in this case, the two militaries working together,” she added. Carlson continued: “I understand people are concerned about that but we would not be here without the request of, and collaboration, and close contact — every aspect of this is coordinated between our two militaries with the approval of the Cabinet and with the highest levels of the Philippine government. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said the additional EDCA sites would not be used for offensive actions. ‘EDCA sites for natural threats’ Carlson also defended the locations of three of the additional EDCA sites located in the northern part of the Philippines, near Taiwan. The establishment of EDCA sites in the northern part of the Philippines is about preserving the security and the safety of all Filipinos and their treaty allies in the United States working together. “It’s not about specifically targeting any single threat, it’s about making sure that you have a comprehensive response capability and to be able to interoperate with your partners and allies,” she said. The locations of the additional EDCA sites were heavily criticized by no less than the president’s eldest sister, Senator Imee Marcos. In a Senate hearing, Imee, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee questioned the locations of the four additional Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites in the country. “So, we have given up all claims on the east sector and West sector in the Philippine Seas, is that correct? We are now obsessed with the Taiwan Strait?” she asked. Two of the four new EDCA sites will be established in Cagayan province, one in Camilo Osias Naval Base in Sta. Ana and Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo. The two remaining EDCA sites will be in Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela province; and Balabac, the southernmost island in Palawan province. Of the four additional EDCA sites, three are situated in the northern part of the country, with the naval base at Cagayan’s Santa Ana being about 400 kilometers (250 miles) from Taiwan. Taiwan, an ally of the United States, is considered by China as part of its territory that will reportedly be retaken one day — by force, if necessary. The post Phl-U.S. deal stands on its own — envoy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Muntinlupa court acquits De Lima in 2nd drug case
In this specific case, De Lima was accused of receiving P10 million, in two tranches, from former corrections chief Rafael Ragos. The money supposedly came from the illegal drug trade inside the New Bilibid Prison......»»