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ERC may take legal action to compel NGCP to cooperate in performance audit
The Energy Regulatory Commission will utilize its “regulatory power” to compel the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines to submit “pertinent documents” for the ongoing comprehensive performance audit. During the Senate panel’s deliberation of the energy sector’s budget on Friday, ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said they are considering taking legal action on the matter. When asked by Senator Risa Hontiveros about the progress of ERC’s performance audit on the NGCP, Dimalanta confirmed that they have encountered delays in the performance audit, particularly in obtaining information from NGCP. “We find ourselves in the position wherein we are constrained to explore other legal remedies to make sure that the information is provided to us. DOE is studying how we can move forward,” she added. While waiting for such information, Dimalanta said the ERC has started its work by using the data it already has involving the review of the reset of power transmission rates set by the NGCP. She likewise confirmed the ERC already finished the review and the results are expected to be released by October. Hontiveros criticized NGCP for disregarding the performance audit, which was clearly stated in the DoE order. In his second State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged NGCP to deliver all projects that will improve the interconnection of electricity throughout the country. This after ERC reported that 68 grid connection projects are “much delayed” including with the vital Mindanao-Visayas and the Cebu-Negros-Panay interconnections. “You don’t say that we still need to issue a subpoena on this? Perhaps the last straw that would break the camel’s back is an action from the Senate,” Hontiveros said. Dimalanta said the ERC has enough powers to make NGCP comply with the performance audit procedures. “We can use our regulatory power to compel disclosure of information,” she noted. Gatchalian stressed that a performance audit is “really necessary” as NGCP has been lagging behind in its projects’ timeline. “Transmission projects are very delayed, and it affects all of us. We are very interested in their performance and to know if they are complying with what they should be complying with. They already collected from the consumers for these projects but many of them are delayed or haven’t started yet,” he added. The post ERC may take legal action to compel NGCP to cooperate in performance audit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Filipino-Indian billionaire sought relief from DOJ
Filipino-Indian billionaire Rajiv Chandiramani has asked the Department of Justice to junk the complaint against him for multiple counts of falsification of public documents filed by his estranged brother for being “baseless, contrived, and manufactured.” Rajiv, in his 25-page counter-affidavit filed through his counsel, denied committing any falsification in order to take control of the more than P1 billion worth of properties left behind by their father Prem Chandiraman following his death in 2011. He claimed that the falsification complaint was merely resurrected by his brother to pressure him to give in to the latter’s demands for more money after their initial compromise agreement in 2022. “By re-filing the complaint for falsification of documents as against Rajiv, Amith has violated his waiver and quitclaim. In the regime of law and order, repudiation of an agreement validly entered into cannot be made without any ground or reason in law or in fact for such repudiation,” Rajiv said. Contrary to his brother’s claim, Rajiv recounted that because of his business ethics, he was able to establish a good business reputation in the business community, particularly in the Filipino-Indian community. Rajiv is the owner of Rheana’s Trading Inc., which is one of the leading domestic companies engaged in the business of buying, selling, distributing, and importing electronic products and accessories. While his older brother, according to Rajiv, got hooked on illegal drugs and was confined in several drug rehabilitation facilities. Rajiv said his brother, in 2020, was released from a drug facility and then stayed in Dubai. A year after, Rajiv claimed there were several defamatory messages against him that were being circulated among relatives, friends, and colleagues, particularly, that he had allegedly falsified several sale documents. With this, Rajiv conducted his own personal investigation and was convinced that these defamatory messages originated from Amith. “It eventually became apparent that Amith started these malicious rumors as he wanted additional monies from Rajiv and their mother,” Rajiv said. Rajiv initially sought redress before the courts by filing a complaint for damages with an injunction against Amith to prevent and dissuade him from continuously spreading malicious allegations against him. He also filed a criminal complaint for cyber libel against Amith. Meanwhile, Amith, in July 2022, filed a criminal complaint for falsification of public documents against Rajiv and their mother and several other respondents before the Office of the City Prosecutor of Makati City. He alleged that Rajiv conspired with their mother to falsify the signature of their deceased father as appearing on several sale documents. In order to end their rift and upon persuasion of family members, Rajiv said he agreed to a compromise with Amith, which led to the mutual withdrawal of the cases that were filed against each other at that time. The agreement also provides a waiver and quitclaim covering any and all potential claims or rights against each other arising from, or in connection with the cases, as well as the estate of their late father. Rajiv, as part of the consideration for the compromise agreement, bound himself to pay Amith the total amount of P150 million by way of support. Rajiv said he has been complying with his contractual undertakings in providing Amith with monthly support of Php600,000, including giving financial assistance for Amith to put up his own electronics trading business. But was surprised to learn that Amith violated their agreement by resurrecting the falsification complaint against him. Amith in his complaint, claimed that Rajiv, their mother Pushpa Chandiramani, and several others connived in depriving him of his inheritance from their father Prem, amounting to billions of pesos in the form of real estate properties and business interests. Among the properties that he claimed were illegally taken from him by Rajiv and his cohorts was a prime 1,559 square-meter lot in Cubao, Quezon City with Transfer Certificate of Title No.46459. But the camp of Rajiv maintained that the compromise agreement entered into by him and Amith is a valid and enforceable contract; thus, the latter is barred from filing a falsification of public documents complaint. “The act of Amith in re-filing or reviving the Complaint for Falsification of Documents with the NBI is a violation of the compromise agreement, and his desistance, waiver, and quitclaim undertakings,” Rajiv said. He disclosed that he has filed a formal complaint for specific performance and damages seeking to compel Amith to comply with the provisions of the compromise agreement and the waiver and quitclaim. Presently, the complaint is pending with the Regional Trial Court of Makati City, Branch 145. The post Filipino-Indian billionaire sought relief from DOJ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Decision reversal on amparo against NTF-ELCAC sought
The Supreme Court was asked by the Cordillera People’s Alliance on Monday to reverse the Court of Appeals decision denying its plea for the issuance of a writ of amparo against the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and other law enforcement agencies. The CPA — through some of its officers and members — repeated the call for the issuance of a temporary restraining order enjoining NTF-ELCAC and other respondents from linking the group and its affiliate organizations with communist-terrorist group New People’s Army in their social media posts and other forms of publication. They also asked the SC to compel the respondents to take down all existing social media posts and forms of publicity which tag the group and its officers and members as communist-terrorists. A writ of amparo is a remedy available to any person whose right to life, liberty and security has been violated or under threat through various acts of the respondents. It include the relentless red-tagging and vilification by “state forces” and unknown entities in public place and social media posts such as Facebook and community meetings. It also includes the issuance of Regional Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee Resolution paving the way for the conduct of house visitations of individuals identified as associated or members of communist front organizations and visitations, stalking, surveillance, and harassment allegedly perpetrated by officers of the respondents NTF-ELCAC, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Philippine Army and the Department of the Interior and Local Government-Cordillera Administrative Region, who are named respondents in the case. Also, the petitioners assailed the encampment by the AFP in indigenous villages, residential houses and use of civilian facilities or structures and the alleged filing of baseless charges against some of the petitioners that were eventually dismissed. The CA’s former Seventeenth Division in a decision issued last April, through Associate Justice Angeline Mary Quimpo-Sale affirmed with finality its October 2022 decision denying CPA’s petition for a writ of amparo. It held that the CPA failed to present sufficient evidence that would warrant the issuance of a writ of amparo and it did not give merit to CPA’s claim that it set the bar “too high for any aggrieved citizen to seek succor from the courts in times of threats to his life and liberty” when it denied their petition for a writ of amparo. The Appellate court also noted that the “sheer volume” of screenshot attached to their affidavits “does not automatically amount to substantial evidence proving that the Facebook posts were made by or under the direction of the respondents.” The CPA is a corporation registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, with the primary purpose of upholding the collective rights and welfare of indigenous peoples of the Cordillera. The post Decision reversal on amparo against NTF-ELCAC sought appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Transport group blasts LTMS
The National Public Transport Coalition on Sunday slammed the new foreign-made information technology platform of the Land Transportation Office — the Land Transportation Management System — for allegedly charging “enormous service fees” to the motoring public transacting with the agency. In a media interview, NPTC national convenor Ariel Lim revealed that the LTO charges drivers, vehicle owners, auto dealers and operators a minimum of P75 per transaction when paying through the LTMS and the service fees are allocated for the online portal’s accredited payment gateway, Paynamics. Instead of providing convenience, Lim lamented that the LTMS became an added financial burden to the motoring public, especially to the low-income public utility vehicle drivers, adding that since the government already owns the LTMS, the public should not be charged these additional fees. He also alleged that with the move, the system is being used by some as a “money-making” scheme and a vehicle for corruption. Lim also questioned the selection process of the payment gateway partner as to whether it underwent proper bidding and accreditation, and the basis of such a price for a service fee as it is higher than the usual rate of P25 to P45. He disclosed that aside from the P75 service charge, some motorists resort to paying P100 to P200 to “fixers” just to open an LTMS account. To recall, the NPTC revived its call to the Senate and Congress to investigate the alleged system glitches and irregularities of the LTMS project due to the failure of LTO’s foreign IT provider – Dermalog -- to deliver its output on time despite receiving full payment amounting to P3.19 billion. Based on reports of the Commission on Audit, the LTMS project has been extended at least 14 times, and yet the government did not impose any penalties. Previously, the NPTC and other local transport groups in Davao filed a case against the Department of Transportation and LTO officials for the continued operations of Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Centers which they alleged as unconstitutional. The Davao Oriental Regional Trial Court is expected to act on the groups’ call for a temporary restraining order soon. Meanwhile, during a hearing of the House Committee on Transportation held on 11 May, committee chairman and Antipolo 2nd District Representative Romeo Acop questioned the capability of Dermalog to deliver the IT needs of the LTO, since in a letter dated 29 March 2023, LTO chief Assistant Secretary Jose Arturo Tugade asked its long-time IT provider – Stradcom -- to continue its operations until the LTMS is fully operational. It is also unclear if this presumably requires another contract extension for LTMS. The LTO chief explained that he only requested Stradcom to stay until the migration of data from the old system to LTMS has been completed. He has earlier committed that the LTO will be fully utilizing the LTMS by 31 August 2023, despite the reported glitches and incomplete system functionalities. The LTO revealed it is already working closely with the Office of the Solicitor General to compel Dermalog to fulfill its contractual obligations. The post Transport group blasts LTMS appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Verses versus vices (3)
Stanza 44 of this continuing satire in free verse versus corruption and vices, is addressed to Heidi Mendoza. “On the basis of her audit report that never was,” she told the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee that CoA chairman Guillermo Carague, Commissioner Emmanuel Dalman, and CoA directors did not help her in the investigation from 2001 to 2004 when Major General Carlos Garcia was AFP Comptroller. These lies were globally telecast and not only chairman Carague was embarrassed; all the other CoA chairmen were asked to explain why. Through Heidi’s false claim — that CoA did not help her — the highly respected audit institution was put to shame. Heidi besmirched and tarnished the honor and dignity of the CoA officials. The damage was irreparable. Under no reasonable ordering of society can it be philosophically and judiciously asserted that Heidi’s right to free speech is higher than the right of CoA officials to their good name and their reputation. The esteem with which their peers hold them is the basis for their social relations, the backbone of their social interaction. 29 But who really is accountable Grace and Heidi caused all the trouble Can you hold the lawmakers responsible Do they sign the vouchers and the payroll 30 They only sign what is endorsable Most likely the head of IA is answerable Now let us deviate without the rhyme And trace the tension of our time 31 May I ask the following questions So you can have some sort of conclusion Who has the power of contempt? To compel employees in the government 32 To submit a complete list of congressmen Who received releases for their constituent Who has the power to hold the salaries? Who fails to obey demand under query 33 Who keeps the general accounts of government? Nobody else but Grace and Heidi again and again Any movement of funds from item to item Is impossible to occur without their knowing them. 34 Any illegal juggling of funds could have been stopped How come Grace and Heidi did not stop the DAP? From the auditor’s instinct and point of view Is a failure to obey the fundamental law. 35 Article IX-D of our 1987 Constitution Section 12-2 of the Code of audit commission Command to Pulido Tan and Heidi Mendoza To control the release of DAP and Malampaya 36 “He did not deny any of our findings/” “He did not say we missed something.” “That’s great. That’s vindicating.” “We can disallow, demand refunding.” 37 A newspaper on 28 August 2013 “Quit erroneous, PDAF reporting!” “Resign for irreparably damaging” “Disservice to Way Kurat for grave mistaking!” 38 In August was “Kahindik hindik” disclosure In September was “explosive” exposure Malampaya explosion cocksure to occur Premature again is the bomb detonator. 39 Why always the haste to hit the headline Why all the fuss? P5-billion unsettled cash advance In 1999 it was P7.7 billion more than CoA then had it settled without beating the drum. 40 CoA Chair Pulido Tan is like Ferdinand And Heidi Mendoza is like Magellan, Peas in a pod whom both assumed the greatness of the explorer who discovered our islands on 16 March 1521 They believe everything great in CoA started since they began. 41 They boast of having won the bright spot in London But old folks found them as silly as cartoon Citizen participatory audit violates the Constitution. No basis whatsoever for any legislation. 42 Given the track record of Grace and Heidi They will pick auditors from their party Not from the plantilla of the audit commission Causing chaos and widespread protestation. 43 Premature disclosure of audit finding Is common hallmark of Heidi’s auditing Pasiklab muna saka na ang ebidensya Dismissed and kaso sa korte suprema. 44 Heidi’s tall tale of lies goes on to flourish Her tongue in revenge continues to unleash Words that poison with intent to demolish Even one’s good name, one’s blood and flesh. The post Verses versus vices (3) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SC asked to compel gov t to explain another threat made by red-tagging Parlade
"Such direct threats engender fear that chills journalists or even citizens from exercising their rights to freedom of expression and freedom of the press.".....»»
SC asked to conduct free mass testing for COVID
Various groups filed yesterday a petition for mandamus before the Supreme Court to compel the government to conduct free mass testing for coronavirus disease 2019 while the country continues to grapple with the pandemic......»»
SC asked: Compel government to conduct mass testing, release accurate COVID-19 data
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Belmonte, Binay call for climate action funding from development banks
The C40 coalition of cities, a network of nearly 100 mayors, asked MDBs to increase urban climate investment, integrate urban climate action into their strategies, and implement tailored programs to support city projects. .....»»
Israel bombs Gaza, fights Hamas around hospitals
Israeli forces pounded besieged Gaza on Wednesday and fought Hamas around several hospitals, despite a UN Security Council demand for a ceasefire. Talks in Qatar towards a truce and hostage release deal involving US and Egyptian mediators have brought no result so far, with Israel and the Palestinian militant group blaming each other. READ: Israel.....»»
Victims of Baltimore bridge collapse include those from Mexico, Guatemala
Maryland [US], March 27 (ANI): Among those reported missing following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore in the US are Mexican nationals, CNN reported, citing Rafael Laveaga, Chief of the Consular Section of Mexico's Embassy in Washington. Laveaga refrained from specifying the exact number of missing Mexican nationals when he addressed reporters near the scene on Tuesday. A reporter asked Laveaga: ".....»»
Flintlock: A Classic Summer Blockbuster – The Daily Guardia
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Indian Coast Guard ship docks at Manila port amid tensions in South China Sea
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Is your salary enough?
The most awaited day for employees is the 15th of the month. On this day, the ATMs become the popularly sought-after machine for salaried employees and workers who must eventually remit their hard-earned cash to their homes......»»
Hamas tells mediators it will stick to original position on ceasefire
Hamas earlier presents a Gaza ceasefire proposal to mediators and the United States in mid-March that includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for freedom for Palestinian prisoners, 100 of whom are serving life sentences.....»»
Albie Casiño asked if he visited Jaclyn Jose s wake: Hindi ako apektado do n
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PUBG Mobile continues steady rise in Philippines
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Big-time oil price hike amid Holy week exodus
Big-time oil price hike amid Holy week exodus.....»»
Workers seek Church help on wage hike
The Federation of Free Workers (FFW) is seeking the intervention of the Catholic Church for immediate passage of the pending P150 legislated nationwide wage hike......»»
GTA 6s release may slip to 2026 as development has reportedly fallen behind – The Daily Guardia
The much-anticipated release of GTA 6 is reportedly facing delays, raising concerns among fans and developers alike. According to sources, the development of the game.....»»