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UK sustainability, digitization ally
The United Kingdom is the country’s partner in the promotion of sustainability and digitization, according to Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual. At the 3rd ASEAN Economic Ministers-United Kingdom Consultations on 20 August in Semarang, Indonesia, Pascual acknowledged the vital role of the British government in advancing regional economic integration, particularly in the areas of sustainability and digitalization. He said this includes new cooperation initiatives of the UK on the ASEAN Catalytic Green Finance Facility, which aims to increase access to finance for green infrastructure, and the British International Investment, which plans to open satellite offices in the region, including in the Philippines. Pascual also expressed appreciation to ASEAN and UK officials for the progress made in the implementation of the initiatives outlined under the Joint Ministerial Declaration on Future Economic Cooperation. Initiatives expanded Pascual also called on ASEAN and UK officials to consider expanding initiatives to support the region’s digital transformation agenda, particularly the intended ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement. “As the Philippines targets to transition into a green economy, a partnership with the UK will be integral in advancing sustainable and digitalized processes,” the DTI said in a Facebook post. Also, the UK Government is eyeing to establish a Joint Trade and Economic Committee or JETCO with the Philippines to improve partnerships in terms of trade. With this, Pascual welcomed UK’s interest to strike an agreement with the Philippines to form a committee that would boost both countries’ trade and economy. “This will serve as a platform to enhance economic relations, promote more trade and investments, and address related issues,” according to Pascual. The UK established JETCO with different countries to address trade barriers and improve the flow of trade in goods and services. In Southeast Asia, the UK has JETCO with Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. The post UK sustainability, digitization ally appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pascual pushes for ASEAN trade upgrade
Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, who graced the 37th Meeting of the ASEAN Free Trade Area Council in Semarang, Indonesia on Saturday, has called on Philippine counterparts in the ASEAN region to address long-standing issues that affect the fruition of preferential market access in the region through the upgrade of the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement, or ATIGA. ATIGA aims to achieve a free flow of goods in the region resulting in fewer trade barriers and deeper economic linkages among member states, lower business costs, increased trade, and a larger market and economies of scale for businesses. Through ATIGA, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand have eliminated intra-ASEAN import duties on 99.65 percent of their tariff lines. Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam earlier have reduced their import duties to 0-5 percent on 98.86 percent of their tariff lines. During the meeting, Secretary Pascual maintained that the upgrade of the ATIGA is an opportune time to address trade issues within ASEAN. Further, the DTI secretary also recommended the establishment of a mechanism to address timely resolution of trade issues to fully realize the benefits of ATIGA and encourage stakeholders to utilize the agreement. As part of the country’s efforts to digitize trade, Pascual also reiterated the Philippines’ commitment to the enhancement of the National Single Window or TradeNet. He reported that the Philippines is on track to fully issue and accept electronic Certificate of Origin Form D within the year. Pascual said the DTI is working closely with the Bureau of Customs and the Department of Finance in said endeavor. Meanwhile, in a closed-door meeting with ASEAN Business Advisory Council Chair Arsjad Rasjid and the Philippines delegation to the ASEAN-BAC composed of George Barcelon and Josephine Romero, Pascual welcomed the key initiatives of the private sector under Indonesia’s ASEAN 2023 chairmanship. The post Pascual pushes for ASEAN trade upgrade appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DoTr taps private groups for projects
Given the issues of limited funding and bureaucratic barriers, the Marcos administration reiterated that it needs the help of the private sector to pursue large-scale infrastructure projects. Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista pointed out that the private sector has the required expertise in transportation planning, architecture, landscape architecture, civil engineering, and other aspects of the projects. “The Marcos administration is committed to leveraging the private sector’s efficiency and flexibility,” he said. Bautista made the remark on Thursday following the contract signing for four of the agency’s Infrastructure Flagship Projects’ consultancy services Consultancy deal inked The DoTr signed the deal for consultancy services with the Public-Private Partnership Center, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, and SyCip Gorres Velayo & Company for the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit operations and maintenance and feasibility studies for the NCR EDSA Busway, Manila Bay-Pasig River-Laguna Lake Ferry System and North Long Haul Inter-Regional Railway. “Pursuant to the President’s directive, the DoTr is working full speed and is commencing the feasibility studies of four IFPs,” the Transport chief said. The North Long Haul Inter-Regional Railway will be an 800-kilometer railway, which will reconstruct the legacy railway to Ilocos and Cagayan Valley and will provide better transportation for passengers and goods, linking rapidly urbanizing economic centers in the northern and northeastern parts of Luzon. To recall, the DoTr relaunched and improved the MAPALLAF Project in hopes of finally easing the gridlock, especially in major thoroughfares in Metro Manila. After it faced headwinds in the last two decades, the project is now a priority transport infrastructure project under the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. The MAPALLAF Ferry System aims to provide close to 10 million commuters with an alternative mode of transport through the waterways of Metro Manila, Cavite and Laguna. Meanwhile, the NCR EDSA Busway, another priority project, will enhance the existing EDSA Carousel. It will introduce new stations and upgrade existing facilities to be universally accessible, gender-responsive, and climate resilient — all aligned to international standards. The project may also involve the introduction of electric buses, reducing carbon emissions along heavily trafficked corridors of Metro Manila. On the other hand, the 13.18-kilometer bus lane in Cebu stretching from Mambaling to Cebu IT Park, the Cebu BRT is expected to serve up to 160,000 passengers daily in its full operations. The post DoTr taps private groups for projects appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go commends Phl Para teams
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has filed Senate Resolution no. 713, commending and congratulating members of the Philippine Para Teams for their exceptional performance in the 2023 Southeast Asian Para Games held in Cambodia from June 3 to 9. The resolution recognizes the athletes’ dedication and talents, which led to the outstanding achievement of securing the 5th overall championship in the prestigious regional multi-sport event, which brought together para-athletes from across Southeast Asia. “Through your remarkable achievements, you have not only shown your remarkable abilities as athletes but have also inspired countless individuals with disabilities to pursue their dreams and break barriers. Your participation in this prestigious regional event exemplifies the true spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and unity,” said Go. The resolution highlighted the remarkable achievements of the Philippine Para Teams, who displayed grit and determination throughout the competition. The country has successfully obtained 117 medals, with an impressive tally of 34 gold medals; 33 silver medals; and 50 bronze medals. This remarkable feat has brought the country to the 5th overall champion ranking. “As a nation, we are grateful for the countless hours of training and sacrifices you have made to represent the Philippines in the international arena. Your achievements serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement for others, proving that with perseverance and hard work, anything is possible,” he said. The resolution encouraged the Philippine government to continue its commitment to para-sports development as well as increase funding and support for para-athletes to further hone their skills and represent the nation in future international competitions. Meanwhile, Go continues to strengthen the sports sector in the country through proposed legislation. His initiatives aim to establish the Philippine National Games and expand benefits for para athletes, with the vision of transforming the nation's sporting landscape and providing a solid foundation for athletes to excel in national and international platforms. The proposed Senate Bill No. 423, known as the Philippine National Games Act, seeks to create a platform for athletes, especially young individuals, to showcase their skills and compete at the national level. The goal is to promote inclusivity, encourage grassroots participation, and discover and nurture exceptional talents in various sports disciplines. Through this nationwide multi-sport event, the Philippines aims to cement its status as a "Sports Powerhouse in Asia" and engage the youth in sports to steer them away from drugs. Go has filed SBN 2116 in a bid to amend Section 8 of Republic Act No. 10699 or the "National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act." The proposed legislation aims to enhance benefits for para athletes, recognizing the challenges they face and aiming to make sports development more inclusive and supportive. If approved, the bill will provide equal opportunities and recognition to para athletes, ensuring they receive incentives comparable to other national athletes competing in international competitions. Go emphasized that government support is crucial, especially for athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds, as it helps ease the financial burden of training, equipment, and participation in competitions. His proposed measures aim to create a sustainable and supportive environment for athletes, empowering them to focus on their athletic pursuits and achieve their full potential. “I urge my fellow lawmakers for their support. These proposed bills bolsters our sporting landscape in the country by fostering a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and support for athletes at all levels,” Go stressed. “By providing a platform for athletes to showcase their talents and by offering comprehensive support, we can nurture a new generation of world-class athletes and para athletes who can bring honor and pride to the nation,” he said. The post Bong Go commends Phl Para teams appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Digitalization is way to go
Recognizing the transformative potential of technology, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., in his second State of the Nation Address last Monday, set forth a bold vision for the Philippines over the next five years — to accelerate the digitalization of the nation. In an increasingly interconnected and technologically advanced world, the digital revolution, no doubt, has become a catalyst for socioeconomic progress and innovation. Digitalization refers to the process of leveraging technology to transform traditional systems, services, and industries, enabling enhanced efficiency, connectivity, and access to information. By embracing digitalization, the Philippines can unlock new opportunities across various sectors, including healthcare, education, finance, agriculture and governance. The move towards digitalization aims to improve citizen services, foster innovation, attract investments, and promote inclusive growth. A crucial prerequisite for realizing a digitalized Philippines is the establishment of a robust digital infrastructure. Reliable and high-speed Internet connectivity is paramount to empowering businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals to participate in the digital economy. President Marcos Jr.’s administration must prioritize the expansion of broadband networks, particularly in rural and underserved areas, bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal access to opportunities for all citizens. Digitalization requires a skilled and adaptable workforce equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital age. The government must invest in education and training programs that emphasize science, technology, engineering, and mathematics or STEM subjects, as well as digital literacy. This would empower citizens to embrace technology and capitalize on the opportunities it brings, contributing to the growth of the nation’s knowledge-based economy. The President’s vision must extend to nurturing a vibrant ecosystem for digital entrepreneurship and innovation. This involves creating a conducive environment for start-ups, including streamlined regulations, access to funding, and support networks. By fostering innovation, the Philippines can attract both domestic and foreign investments, propelling economic growth and job creation. Digitalization presents an opportunity to enhance governance and public service delivery. E-governance initiatives can streamline bureaucratic processes, reduce corruption, and enhance citizen engagement. Implementing secure and accessible digital platforms for government services can improve the overall efficiency and transparency of public institutions. Healthcare and education are two critical sectors that stand to benefit significantly from digitalization. Telemedicine and e-health initiatives can expand access to healthcare services, particularly in remote areas with limited medical facilities. Likewise, digital education platforms can democratize learning, making quality education more accessible to all Filipinos. Despite the promising prospects, achieving a digitalized Philippines entails navigating various challenges. Cybersecurity is a pressing concern as increased digital reliance can expose the nation to cyber threats and attacks. The government must prioritize the development of robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard critical infrastructure and sensitive information. Moreover, digitalization should not exacerbate existing social and economic disparities. The government must ensure that no one is left behind in this transformative process, especially marginalized communities who may face barriers to accessing digital resources. Data privacy is another crucial consideration. As the country collects and utilizes vast amounts of data, there must be strict regulations in place to protect individuals’ privacy rights and prevent potential misuse of information. As a whole, the President’s vision for a digitalized Philippines over the next five years presents both opportunities and challenges. By focusing on enhancing connectivity, empowering the digital workforce, supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, and embracing digital governance, the Philippines can position itself as a digital leader in the region. Achieving this vision, however, requires strategic planning, collaboration with stakeholders, and a commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. As the country embarks on this journey towards a digitalized future, the vision must be aligned with the welfare and aspirations of all Filipinos, leaving no one behind in the pursuit of progress and prosperity. The post Digitalization is way to go appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go inspects Super Health Center in Tagbilaran, Bohol
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go emphasized the significance of health facilities in the country as he personally inspected the Super Health Center being constructed in Tagbilaran City, Bohol on Monday, July 17. In his speech, Go shared that the government intends to establish more than 600 Super Health Centers across the nation. He added that such centers are poised to play a crucial role in addressing the nation's healthcare needs, ensuring comprehensive medical care and strengthening the country's healthcare system. “Itong Super Health Center marami rin ang itatayo sa buong Pilipinas, higit 600 ang itatayo (sa buong Pilipinas) at 13 sa Bohol ang itatayo na Super Health Center. Ang Super Health Center is a medium type of a polyclinic. Mas maliit sa hospital, mas malaki po sa mga Rural Health Unit. Pwede po diyan ‘yung birthing, panganganak, dental, laboratory, x-ray at pwede po itong i-expand,” he explained. Accessibility is a key pillar of the Super Health Center initiative, Go underscored. He likewise emphasized the importance of bringing healthcare services closer to the people, especially in areas where access to quality medical care remains a challenge. By establishing Super Health Centers throughout the country, the government aims to ensure that every Filipino, regardless of their location, can avail themselves of essential healthcare services without the burden of long-distance travel or prohibitive costs, the senator added. The Super Health Center is a medium version of a polyclinic yet an improved version of the rural health unit. The services available in the center include database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, which makes remote diagnosis and treatment of patients possible. In Bohol, aside from the one in Tagbilaran City, funds have been allocated to construct Super Health Centers in Buenavista, Candijay, Dauis, Sagbayan, Talibon, Antequera, Balilihan, Bien Unido, Carmen, Panglao and Ubay — the last one’s groundbreaking was attended by Go last April. During the inspection, Go, who is an adopted son of the city, was accompanied by Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, Vice Mayor Adam Jala, and former mayor Baba Yap. Cortes Mayor Iven Lim and Dauis Vice Mayor Miriam Sumaylo were also in attendance. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, Go also continues to monitor the operations of Malasakit Centers nationwide to ensure efficient provision of medical assistance particularly to poor and indigent patients. Acknowledging the hesitancy of many Filipinos to get medical care due to financial barriers, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018. It was later institutionalized under the Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. The Act brings together all relevant agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, under one roof to reduce the hospital expenses of the patients by covering services and other fees. “Special ang araw ngayon dahil nandito at sinamahan tayo ng numero uno na senador sa lugar ng Tagbilaran (City), walang iba (kundi si) Senador Bong Go! A very (good) example kung gaano kabilis at aksyon agad ng atin senador, last week tumawag kami ni Baba Yap sa kanya (kasi) may isang pasyente sa San Isidro na nangangailangan ng kidney transplant. Ngayon ang kanyang operasyon at (tumulong si) Senador Bong Go through the Malasakit Center,” cited Mayor Yap. In the city, there is a Malasakit Center at Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center (GCGMH), which he also checked the operations on the same day. There is also one at Don Emilio Del Valle Memorial Hospital in Ubay. Go, as principal sponsor in the Senate, was also instrumental in the passage of Republic Act No. 11883 which converts GCGMH to Governor Celestino Gallares Multi-Specialty Medical Complex. On the same day, Go also visited several infrastructure projects that he earlier supported. These projects included the ongoing construction of the Governor Celestino Gallares Multispecialty Medical Complex, as well as the Cortes Municipal Park and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management building in Cortes. Additionally, he also attended the opening of the Inter-Barangay Basketball League in Cortes town and provided assistance to indigent athletes, coaches, referees, and barangay workers of the town. Lastly, he also attended the 73rd Commencement Exercise of Bohol Institute of Technology International College System. #### The post Bong Go inspects Super Health Center in Tagbilaran, Bohol appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
E.O launched expediting strategic investments
In order to speed up strategic investments in the country and to further transform the country into a strategic investment haven, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. together with Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Fred Pascual led the official launch of Executive Order No. 18 signed by the President last 23 February 2023. The EO aims to establish Green Lanes within national government agencies, Local Government Units, Government-owned or -controlled corporations, and other government instrumentalities involved in the issuance of permits, licenses, and certifications. According to Trade Secretary Pascual, also the chairperson of the Board of Investments and the Inter-agency Investment Promotion Coordination Committee the E.O. complements their efforts to sustain the country’s strong economic growth by attracting more strategic investments into the country and ensuring faster realization thereof. “The green lanes that we have set up will address the barriers across multiple regulatory agencies that hamper the entry and delay the realization of foreign direct investments. By further easing and fast-tracking the processes for doing business in the Philippines, we will raise the competitiveness of the country in attracting strategic investments by global enterprises,” Pascual said in his speech during the launch at Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Pasay City. E.O. 18 is a government-wide response to enhance the ease of doing business in the country by expediting, streamlining, and automating government processes for strategic investments. Its outstanding feature is the provision for simultaneous processing of applications whereby National Government Agencies and Local Government Units that receive applications for permits and licenses are mandated to process the same with the presumption that the relevant documents from other agencies have already been issued and where the applicant firm shall execute an affidavit of undertaking that it has secured the relevant documents from specific NGAs or LGUs and that it shall submit the complete documentary requirements within 30 working days. This special feature will significantly cut down the processing time for documents needed to start a business in the country. Further, under E.O. 18, DTI-BOI shall establish a One-Stop-Action-Center for Strategic Investments, which shall serve as the single point of entry for all projects qualified as Strategic Investments. OSAC-SI is mandated to identify and designate an investment as Strategic Investment and endorse the same to concerned NGAs, LGUs, and/or quasi-judicial bodies for processing of permits and licenses. The post E.O launched expediting strategic investments appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hoffman boosts bid for Paris Paris
Olympics hopeful Lauren Hoffman yesterday set a new national record in the women’s 400-meter hurdles with a gold medal performance in the Hurricane Collegiate Invitational in Coral Gables, Florida......»»
176 ka bus gihatagan og special permit sa LTFRB 7
176 ka bus gihatagan og special permit sa LTFRB 7.....»»
WWDC 2024 Will Include In-Person Special Event at Apple Park
Apple Shakes Things Up with Virtual WWDC Event In a surprising move, Apple announced that it will not be holding its traditional in-person Worldwide Developers.....»»
Marvin hell-bent on punching way to Paris Olympics
Not to take part, but to take over......»»
Hoffman sets new Philippine hurdles record at Florida meet
Paris Olympics-hopeful Lauren Hoffman on Wednesday set a new national record in the women’s 400-meter hurdles with a gold medal performance in the Hurricane Collegiate Invitational in Coral Gables, Florida......»»
Tenorio aims to keep imparting basketball knowledge
At this point of his career, 39-year-old LA Tenorio said it is all about giving back......»»
Beijing 2008 Olympics: one world, one dream
For the 2008 Olympic Games, Beijing advocated the idea of "One World, One Dream." However, the dream of the Chinese government is not the dream of everyone. In a vast social system long known for its tight control over its population, it's difficult for controllers and the controlled to share the same ideas.It had been a dream for Beijing to host the Olympic Games ever since the International Olympic Committee (.....»»
TikTok Shop Launches TikTok Shop Business School to Help Digitize Filipino Entrepreneurs
TikTok Shop launched TikTok Shop Business School, a comprehensive one-day program for Filipino entrepreneurs that aims to equip them with the skills to grow their businesses in the digital sphere. The full-day program, which 50 TikTok Shop entrepreneurs attended, was comprised of master classes on Corporate Strategy and Business Model with Kim Lato, Founder and […].....»»
Davao Media-Citizen Council elects officers
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 24 March) – The Davao Media-Citizen Council (DMCC) on Saturday elected its officers from representatives of various fields — media, business, law and academe. MindaNews’ Special Reports Editor Carolyn O. Arguillas was elected chair while Antonio Peralta representing the business sector was elected vice chair. Peralta chairs the Southern Mindanao Business […].....»»
Phl booters eye revenge vs Iraqis
After a close loss to Iraq in Basra, embattled Philippines aims to see its upset plans through on familiar grounds when it faces the Asian power again tonight in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers at the Rizal Memorial Stadium......»»
‘Under a Piaya Moon’ director hopes he made mentor Peque Gallaga proud
In receiving the award for Mowelfund Film Institute Special Citation (full-length film category) at the just-concluded Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival at the Gateway Cineplex, “Under a Piaya Moon” director Kurt Soberano dedicated it to all his film and acting mentors, including the late multi-awarded filmmaker Peque Gallaga, Lawrence Fajardo, Jay Abello, and all the Ilonggo and Negrense directors......»»
Golden Haven launches international campaign for OFWs
Golden Haven, the country’s leading memorial park developer, has launched its GO! International campaign, a groundbreaking initiative that aims to help overseas Filipino workers secure their financial future......»»
SC allows UN expert to act as friend of the court in Maria Ressa s cyber libel plea
Irene Khan, United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur for freedom of expression and opinion, has been allowed by the Supreme Court (SC) to sit as an "amicus curiae" to the court in the appeal for the cyber libel case of Rappler.com chief executive officer Maria Ressa and former researcher Reynaldo Santos......»»