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DTI: Tatak Pinoy Act to Boost PH Industrialization
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to boost its efforts for industrialization with the recent approval of the “Tatak Pinoy” Act on February 26, 2024. The move is in sync with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, focusing on empowering local industries to make a wider range of top-notch products and compete better globally. The […].....»»
DepEd orders immediate removal of admin tasks from teachers’ workload
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially ordered the immediate removal of administrative tasks from teachers’ workloads on Friday. The issuance of Department Order (DO) 002 came a day after Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte announced the said initiative during her presentation of the 2024 Basic Education Report. “This DO.....»»
Delivery drivers urge Mayor Baste for business permit exemption
Title: Delivery Drivers Seek Exemption from Business Permit Requirement A group of delivery drivers in Davao is urging Mayor Sebastian Duterte to exempt them from the mandatory business permits. The drivers, including those from various delivery apps such as Grab and FoodPanda, are concerned about the financial burden imposed by the business permits, which range from P2,000 to P6,000. They argue that this requirement is unique to Davao City among all cities and provinces in the Philippines. Grab rider Rolando Atico emphasized the need for solidarity among all delivery drivers, regardless of the app they work for. He urged fellow drivers to support each other, as the financial impact may extend beyond just Grab and FoodPanda. Atico also requested Mayor Duterte to reconsider the requirement and reinstate the previous occupational permit, which only cost P125. The group is facing a 30-day deadline to obtain the business permits, and they are citing financial constraints as a reason for their request for an extension. Failure to comply could result in their removal from the delivery platforms, jeopardizing their livelihoods. Additionally, they are advocating for changes to Davao City's Revenue Code, proposing a model similar to Cebu City, where only an occupational permit is required. The drivers are also calling for an inquiry into the lack of transparency and unilateral actions of food delivery companies, particularly concerning rider capitalization and financial concerns. They believe that a thorough investigation will help ensure fairness and equity in their financial obligations and working relationship with the delivery companies. Maribel Paguican, the Business Bureau officer-in-charge, stated that non-certified delivery riders categorized as service contractors must obtain a business permit. She mentioned two permits for occupational and business activities, with a discounted structure for delivery riders. However, concerns have been raised about increased taxes, potentially ranging from P3,000 to P6,000, along with an additional tax on top of the declared income of P1,400. The delivery drivers' plea for exemption from the business permit requirement reflects their concerns about the financial impact and the potential threat to their livelihoods. Their call for solidarity and support from fellow drivers highlights the urgency of the situation. This story sheds light on the challenges faced by delivery drivers in Davao and the implications of the business permit requirement on their financial well-being. It also underscores their efforts to seek fairness and equity in their working relationship with the authorities and delivery companies......»»
Ombudsman orders removal of CHED exec for nepotism
CHED on Wednesday said it has been ordered to implement the decision against CHED Commissioner Jo Mark Libre, who was appointed to the position in 2022 by then-President Rodrigo Duterte. .....»»
6 UN experts sound alarm over Philippine government’s ‘unchecked’ anti-terror powers
The UN experts counted at least 24 alleged victims of rights violations from the government’s counter-terrorism efforts from 2019 to 2023 — which covers the second half of the Duterte administration and Marcos’ first year in office......»»
‘Agreement with the devil’: VP Sara opposes peace talks with communist rebels
Vice President Sara Duterte opposes President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr.'s decision to grant amnesty to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF). She referred to it as an agreement with the devil, emphasizing her personal experiences with the atrocities committed by the communist group during her tenure as mayor of Davao City. Despite her support for peace initiatives, Duterte firmly believes that granting amnesty to rebels is not the solution. She urged the government to continue efforts through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and strengthen them, emphasizing the need to support communities that have been affected by terrorism. Duterte questioned the sincerity of the peace negotiations, citing historical evidence of the group's lack of commitment to peaceful resolutions. She also expressed concerns about the joint statement signed by the Philippine government and the NDF in Oslo, Norway, warning against the potential betrayal of the government and deception of the people. In response, Marcos highlighted the need to amend and update the functions of the National Amnesty Commission to process applications for amnesty under the new proclamations. The Vice President's stance has faced criticism from progressive groups advocating for the resumption of peace talks. This opposition to the peace talks reflects a broader debate within the Philippine government and society regarding the best approach to addressing the longstanding conflict with communist rebels......»»
SC orders VP Sara to respond to petition on constitutionality of OVP’s P125M CF
MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court (SC) has directed Vice President Sara Duterte to respond to the petition that questions the constitutionality of the P125-million confidential fund (CF) allocated for the Office of the Vice President in 2022. In a two-page notice made public Monday, the High Tribunal also directed Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and.....»»
Rep. Duterte donates motorcycle equipment to boost brgy police
First District Representative Paolo Pulong Duterte has donated motorcycle equipment to boost the barangay police in the first district. The equipment, which includes a police siren with a PA system and mic, front blinker, beacon light, front crash guard stainless, and pole stand stainless, was turned over to barangay captains for use by their barangay police. The turnover ceremony took place at the Office of the First Congressional District in Davao City. This initiative is part of Rep. Duterte's ongoing efforts to support the barangays in his district, which have included providing ambulances, multi-purpose buildings, fire stations, and evacuation centers. The donation complements the Davao City Government's provision of 55 motorcycle units to the Davao City police. The use of motorcycles will enable the barangay police to patrol their areas of responsibility more effectively and enhance general security. Rigo Duterte, the son of Rep. Duterte, expressed gratitude to the barangay police for their dedication and emphasized that the new equipment will strengthen their ability to prevent and respond to street crimes......»»
Trillanes accuses Duterte of destabilization, coup plot vs Marcos
Former senator Antonio Trillanes IV has accused former president Rodrigo Duterte of supporting efforts to destabilize and stage a coup against the Marcos administration......»»
Grab’s earnings planaids riders fight inflation
Dominant superapp Grab Philippines has rolled out a more competitive compensation scheme for delivery-partners to help them cope with the current market and inflationary challenges. Grab Philippines chief operating officer Ronald Roda said in a press statement on Wednesday that the new enhancements which promote platform experience, earnings fairness and sustainability, and social safety nets will benefit all industry stakeholders. The new program, which was designed to better align with its partners’ efforts and the realities of the delivery landscape, was launched after a two-month pilot program. The revamped plan addresses imbalances and ensures fairer compensation by improving the previous model that offered a fixed base fare, which was often not reflective of the actual effort involved in each delivery task. A guaranteed minimum fare is also introduced in the new model to provide financial stability and protect partners from low-earning trips. This guarantees that every delivery job, no matter how small, contributes a fair amount towards a partner’s income. More than minimum wage On top of all these, Grab ensures that its delivery partners on the platform continue to earn significantly more than the minimum wage. “In the face of evolving consumer behaviors and significant macroeconomic shifts, our delivery service’s remarkable resilience is a reflection of our philosophy that our success is intertwined with the success of our partners,” Roda said. “As we continue to navigate the post-pandemic era, we are firm in our commitment to showcasing our adaptability and unwavering support to our delivery-partners,” he added. Significant upgrades Grab has also made “significant upgrades” to the partner-platform interaction, deploying advanced digital tools for better order forecasting and preparation time accuracy, as well as merchant education programs. These will significantly reduce unnecessary delays — allowing partners to fulfill more orders in less time, and thus increasing their potential earnings. Likewise, Grab has improved its algorithms and enhanced the merchant-partner interface to ensure pinpoint accuracy in merchant details and geotagging, which means that partners can trust the platform to direct them accurately. “With these progressive enhancements, we’re not just optimizing a service; we’re fortifying a platform of vast opportunities. This move goes beyond transactional interactions, touching lives and empowering thousands of delivery partners across the Philippines by providing more equitable earnings, stability, and growth potential,” Roda affirmed. Locally, Grab has committed to helping the government generate 500,000 livelihood opportunities for Filipinos in the coming years. The post Grab’s earnings planaids riders fight inflation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Myanmar nationals ask Philippines to probe alleged war crimes
Five Myanmar nationals asked the Philippines on Wednesday to investigate alleged war crimes committed by 10 serving or former members of Myanmar's military against the mainly Christian Chin minority. Filipino lawyers representing the Myanmar nationals told reporters they lodged the "landmark" criminal complaint against junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and nine others at the Department of Justice in Manila. They asked prosecutors to open an investigation into alleged war crimes under a Philippine law penalising "crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide, and other crimes against humanity". The five Myanmar nationals are from western Chin state, but now live in Australia, Britain, Canada and India. They were at the justice department in Manila. "This is a landmark suit because this is the very first time that such a case is being brought before the Philippines," Romel Bagares, one of the lawyers, told reporters. Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla said his department would "evaluate" the complaint, which he described as "very novel". "If this is sufficient in form and substance, that's the time when we will require the respondents to answer these complaints," Remulla told reporters. Among the accused is Chin Chief Minister Vung Suan Thang, who is a former military officer. The others are serving members of the military. The complaint alleged that members of Myanmar's military killed a pastor and two church elders in Thantlang town, Chin, in September 2021. It also accused the 10 of "intentionally" directing attacks on churches and the burning of hundreds of houses in the same town between August 2021 and June 2022. They also allegedly blocked relief supplies from reaching people in Chin state in the aftermath of Cyclone Mocha in May. 'Truly historic day' Philippine law allows for the prosecution of war crimes committed elsewhere. One of the stipulations of the law is that the accused must be present in the Philippines. According to Gilbert Andres, another Filipino lawyer representing the Myanmar nationals, if the Philippine justice department were to decide to mount a case against the 10 accused, it could issue subpoenas to Myanmar's Central Authority or go through diplomatic channels. The toppling of Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in a 2021 coup sparked a huge backlash and the military junta is now battling opponents across swaths of Myanmar. Some of the bloodiest fighting has been happening in Christian-majority areas, including in Chin state. "This is a truly historic day," Salai Ling, one of the five complainants and also of the Chin Human Rights Organization, told reporters in Manila. "We are really hoping that with the solidarity and support from the Filipino people and people in the ASEAN region, that we will be able to get some form of justice for the atrocities that our people suffered." Myanmar and the Philippines belong to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The regional bloc's efforts to defuse the Myanmar crisis have been fruitless so far. The Philippines is now the subject of an international human rights probe, with the Hague-based International Criminal Court investigating "possible crimes against humanity" during former president Rodrigo Duterte's deadly drugs crackdown. In July, President Ferdinand Marcos said the Philippines was "done talking with the ICC" but would continue to question the tribunal's jurisdiction. The post Myanmar nationals ask Philippines to probe alleged war crimes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Grab’s new earnings plan aids delivery riders amid price woes
Dominant super app Grab Philippines has rolled out a more competitive compensation scheme for delivery partners to help them cope with the current market and inflationary challenges. Grab Philippines chief operating officer Ronald Roda said in a press statement on Wednesday that the new enhancements—which promote platform experience, earnings fairness and sustainability, and social safety nets—will benefit all industry stakeholders. The new program, which was designed to better align with its partners' efforts and the realities of the delivery landscape, was launched after a two-month pilot. The revamped plan addresses imbalances and ensures fairer compensation by improving the previous model that offered a fixed base fare, which was often not reflective of the actual effort involved in each delivery task. A guaranteed minimum fare is also introduced in the new model to provide financial stability and protect partners from low-earning trips. This guarantees that every delivery job, no matter how small, contributes a fair amount towards a partner's income. On top of all these, Grab ensures that its delivery partners on the platform continue to earn significantly more than the minimum wage. "In the face of evolving consumer behaviors and significant macroeconomic shifts, our delivery service's remarkable resilience is a reflection of our philosophy that our success is intertwined with the success of our partners," Roda said. "As we continue to navigate the post-pandemic era, we are firm in our commitment to showcasing our adaptability and unwavering support to our delivery partners," he added. Grab has also made "significant upgrades" to the partner-platform interaction, deploying advanced digital tools for better order forecasting and preparation time accuracy, as well as merchant education programs. These will significantly reduce unnecessary delays–allowing partners to fulfill more orders in less time, and thus increasing their potential earnings. Likewise, Grab has improved its algorithms and enhanced the merchant-partner interface to ensure pinpoint accuracy in merchant details and geotagging, which means that partners can trust the platform to direct them accurately. "With these progressive enhancements, we're not just optimizing a service; we're fortifying a platform of vast opportunities. This move goes beyond transactional interactions, touching lives and empowering thousands of delivery partners across the Philippines by providing more equitable earnings, stability, and growth potential," Roda affirmed. Locally, Grab has committed to helping the government generate 500,000 livelihood opportunities for Filipinos in the coming years. The post Grab’s new earnings plan aids delivery riders amid price woes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pentagon amps up posture in Mideast in response to ‘escalations’
The United States warned against any "escalation" in the Middle East in the wake of Israel's war with Hamas, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Sunday, hours after the Pentagon moved to step up military readiness in the region. The United States has seen a "prospect of a significant escalation of attacks on our troops" in the region, Austin said Sunday, adding that the US military was preparing for "the ability to respond." "If any group or any country is looking to widen this conflict and take advantage of this very unfortunate situation that we see, our advice is: don't," he told ABC News. "We maintain the right to defend ourselves and we won't hesitate to take the appropriate action," he added. His comments came hours after the Pentagon said it was upping readiness in the region in response to "recent escalations by Iran and its proxy forces." Austin ordered the activation of air defense systems and notified additional forces that they may be deployed soon. Austin did not say how many US troops would be added to those already in the region. The Pentagon's moves came after what Austin had earlier described in a statement as "detailed discussions" with President Joe Biden. "These steps will bolster regional deterrence efforts, increase force protection for US forces in the region, and assist in the defense of Israel," Austin said. The steps continued the Biden administration's response since Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip stormed Israel on October 7, taking more than 200 hostages and killing at least 1,400 people, according to Israeli officials. tensions rising Israel has since vowed to destroy Hamas, and says around 1,500 of the group's fighters were killed in clashes before its army regained control of the area initially under attack. Austin said he had activated deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and additional Patriot battalions "throughout the region." "Finally, I have placed an additional number of forces on prepare-to-deploy orders as part of prudent contingency planning, to increase their readiness and ability to quickly respond as required," Austin said. Tensions are rising along Israel's northern border with Lebanon after the Israeli army traded fire with the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah amid fears of a new front opening as Israel battles Hamas. In south Lebanon on Saturday, Hezbollah said four of its fighters were killed. Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad said one of its fighters was also killed. Armed factions close to Iran have threatened to attack US interests in Iraq over Washington's support for Israel. Multiple Iraqi bases used by US-led coalition troops have been targeted in several attacks in recent days. Israel's military said Saturday it would intensify strikes on Hamas-controlled Gaza ahead of a planned ground invasion. The military has pounded Gaza with relentless strikes in response to Hamas's 7 October attack. The bombing campaign has killed more than 4,650 Palestinians, mainly civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, and reduced swaths of the densely populated territory to ruins. A first trickle of aid entered the Palestinian enclave from Egypt on Saturday, but the 20 trucks permitted to cross have been described as a "drop in the ocean" given the needs of 2.4 million residents. The post Pentagon amps up posture in Mideast in response to ‘escalations’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go honors educators as modern-day heroes on Teachers’ Day
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, a member of the Senate Committee on Basic Education and adopted son of the CALABARZON region, personally attended the celebration of Teachers’ Day at the Ynares Sports Complex in Antipolo City, Rizal on Thursday, 5 October. “Alam n’yo ang dapat po nating pasalamatan ngayong araw na ito at bigyan po ng pagpupugay ay ang atin pong mga teachers. Alam n’yo bakit? Kayo po ang isa sa mga hero po ng pandemya. Noong panahon ng pandemya, panahon po iyon na nag-a-adjust po kayo sa distance learning hanggang pabalik sa face-to-face learning,” Go said as he emphasized the pivotal role of teachers in shaping the nation's future. “Napakalaki po ng challenges na pinagdaanan n’yo. Palakpakan po natin ang ating mga guro. Hindi po natin mararating ito kung hindi po dahil rin po sa inyong sakripisyo. Alam ko ‘yan. Sa tatlong taon po na nilabanan natin ‘yung pandemya, kami ni (dating) pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte, nandiriyan po kayo,” he continued. The event was also attended by Governor Nina Ricci Ynares, Mayor Casimiro “Jun” Ynares, and Vice Mayor Josefina Gatlabayan, among others. Mayor Ynares expressed his gratitude for Go’s continuous efforts to uplift the lives of Filipinos. “Sa araw din po na ito, I will make a confession. There is one thing that my teachers taught me which I occasionally do not follow at ito po yun: no copying. Natutunan ko later in public service na kapag may test, magandang mangopya. When one faces difficult tests in life, we can copy. Today, ipapakilala ko po ang isang fellow public servant na hindi niya alam na, quote and quote, kinokopyahan ko. Kinokopya ko po siya for two reasons: first, he has gone through many difficult tests in life; second, he is the kind of person who stands by others, who go through difficult tests in life. Sa mga pinagdaanan niya sa pagsubok ng buhay, dalawang mahahalagang qualities ang lagi kong nakikita at sinisikap na makopya. Una po ay commitment, pangalawa, compassion,” Mayor Ynares said, pertaining to Go. Furthermore, Mayor Ynares commended Go for his steadfast dedication, which serves as an inspiration for public servants and a reminder of the positive impact one can make when motivated by a genuine commitment to the public good. “Hindi po madali ang pinagdaanan ng ating panauhin. Sa panahon na siya ang umaalalay sa isa sa mga naging pangulo ng ating bansa, mula pa nang maging punong-lungsod ang taong pinaglingkuran niya sa Davao (City), hanggang ito ay maging presidente ng ating bansang Pilipinas, humarap sila sa mga panganib, sa mga batikos, sa malalaking suliranin. Sa kabila po nito, laging andun ang ating panauhin… Andun siya para umalalay, para pangalagaan at para ayusin ang landas na dadaanan ng taong pinaglilingkuran niya,” Mayor Ynares further shared. “Nakita ko rin na ang kanyang commitment ay hindi lang sa presidenteng pinaglingkuran niya. He extended his commitment to our countrymen. As he did so, the quality of commitment became the quality of compassion. Tayo pong mga Antipoleño at Rizaleño, pati na ang kapwa nating Pilipino ay naging benepisyaryo ng malasakit na yon,” he added. During the event, Go provided gift packs to 5,902 educators and non-teaching staff. He also extended shirts, bicycles, mobile phones, shoes, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. “Sa ating mga guro, Happy Teachers month, Happy Teachers’ Day. Lubos po ang aking saludo sa ating mga guro sa araw na ito at sila po’y mga heroes rin po natin sa panahon ng pandemya,” said Go in an interview after the event. “Hindi biro maging isang guro. Dapat talaga mahaba ang iyong pasensya sa pagtuturo. At hindi po natin mararating ito, itong kinatatayuan natin ngayon. Ako mismo hindi po ako magiging senador kung hindi po dahil sa ating mga guro dahil diyan tayo nag-umpisa… Sila po ang nagturo sa atin ng mga tamang kaalaman at gabay kaya po tayo naririto na atin rin namang isini-share po sa ating mga kababayan sa ngayon,” he shared. In the Senate, Go co-authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1964, also known as the "Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act," which seeks to establish a system for providing teaching allowances to public school teachers. The proposed measure was approved on the third and final reading last May. In 2019, Go also authored and co-sponsored RA 11466, otherwise known as the Salary Standardization Law 5, which gives civilian government employees, including public school teachers, another round of salary increases broken down in tranches. Go likewise expressed his support for the proposed Salary Standardization Law 6, saying, “As co-sponsor and author of Salary Standardization Law 5 during the 18th Congress, sana po ay magkaroon pa ng bagong Salary Standardization Law 6. I’m one with the government in seeking to provide another increase in salaries for those working in the public sector.” Earlier, the senator also filed SBN 1190, which proposes expanding the use of the Special Education Fund, if enacted into law, to cover the operation and maintenance of public schools, payment of salaries and benefits for teaching and non-teaching personnel, and competency training for teaching personnel, among others. On the same day, Go provided assistance to indigents and inspected the San Isidro Super Health Center and the Antipolo City Hall of Justice which he supported in the past years. The post Bong Go honors educators as modern-day heroes on Teachers’ Day appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hands-on
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. is living proof of US President Abraham Lincoln’s adage: “You can please some of the people all of the time; you can please all of the people some of the time; but you can’t please all of the people all of the time.” In the previous regimes, the usual question was, “Where is the President?” during critical periods such as when calamities struck and the elected leader was slow to react. Thus, there was a frequent demand for medical bulletins on previous presidents when they were not in public view for consecutive days. Both President Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte are taking flak from critics who allege that they are monopolizing authority for holding Cabinet positions aside from their elected posts. Bugged endlessly about relinquishing his Department of Agriculture post, Marcos said he would maintain the current arrangement since many officials in the graft-ridden agency do not easily take orders except from him. Amid the rising prices, some sectors whose only interest is to have an official that favors them have been harping on the need for a full-time secretary, floating names in a subtle endorsement to PBBM. Marcos has held the agriculture post since he assumed office in July 2022. Since then, and especially in January 2023, amid the rise in the cost of food, critics have been calling on Marcos to finally appoint someone who can hold the post full-time. The President knows what he is doing and has competent advisers to help him make fast decisions in the critical agriculture sector. Making difficult but critical decisions, even with political will, would take more time from an alter ego. He explained the situation: “Generally speaking, if the President asks them to do something, they’ll do it. If someone else asks them to do it, they’ll probably do it, or they may not.” The need for swift action was particularly evident in the recent rice price shock when the cost of a kilo of rice rocketed to more than P60. The intervention was tricky because of the complex network in the industry that needs to balance the welfare of consumers, farmers, and retailers. Add to that the external situation in which supply has been affected by the limits that India, a major producer, imposed on its exports. President Marcos, the other day, lifted Executive Order 39, which imposed a price ceiling of P41 per kilo on regular milled and P45 per kilo on well-milled rice. The EO effectively brought down the market price of the grain, but it affected retailers who complained of losses since they were selling below the price they were buying from middlemen, while farmers said traders demanded that the farmgate price be lowered. The National Food Authority then had to set the buying price of palay at P19 to P20 per kilo from P16 to P19 to maintain farmers’ income amid the price cap. Retailers were also provided with subsidies to offset their losses due to the government-imposed ceiling. Economic officials knew the measures were temporary since they would drain the government coffers if imposed for too long. The aim was to stabilize the market until the harvest season, and the influx of grains from imports under the tariffication law brought the situation back to normal. Had the steps taken been delayed by just days, it may have caused a crisis where consumers would have had to eat alternatives to the grains such as kamote (sweet potato) and corn. Then, the public would have been outraged, and the heated situation would have been stoked by the opportunists who waited like vultures for public support for Marcos to weaken. Rice remains a political commodity, which spelled the 15-point difference in Marcos’ rating in the recent survey. The post Hands-on appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go pushes for increased Cancer Fund
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go emphasized the importance of allocating sufficient funds for specific healthcare programs, such as those addressing cancer, tuberculosis, and mental health disorders, during the Committee on Finance hearing for the Department of Health’s budget on Thursday, 28 September. “We must also give enough focus and ensure funding for our programs to address other diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis, and mental health disorders,” Go said. He pointed out that the Cancer Assistance Fund for this year was set at P500 million through the collective efforts of lawmakers last year. Go proposed for this to be doubled to P1 billion for the next year. However, he expressed concern over the current reported underutilization of the fund. Drawing from his previous advocacy, Go has been a consistent voice for increased funding for the CAF. “Dapat patuloy na pataasin ang budget para sa cancer assistance fund,” he said in an earlier interview. The senator’s call for increased funding aligns with the National Integrated Cancer Control Act, under Republic Act 11215, signed by former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2019. Within NICCA, CAF plays a pivotal role in offering financial support to cancer patients across the nation. He also emphasized the need to bridge the gap between the high cost of cancer treatment and the financial means of those who need it most. “It is for this reason that we continus to advocate for a larger allocation for the CAF and recognizes that every peso invested in cancer assistance is an investment in the health and well-being of countless individuals and their families,” he said. Furthermore, Go expressed his support for a proposed cancer fund intended to aid Overseas Filipino Workers, a project championed by the late Secretary Susan “Toots” Ople of the Department of Migrant Workers. “This initiative highlights the urgent requirement to offer aid and compassion to the modern-day heroes who are confronting cancer while working far away from their homes,” he concluded. The post Go pushes for increased Cancer Fund appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go extends assistance to indigents in Lupao, Nueva Ecija
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, an adopted son of Nueva Ecija, sent his team to provide assistance to indigent families in Lupao, Nueva Ecija, on Friday, 29 September. Go’s team assisted residents who gathered at the Brgy. Gymnasium of San Antonio Este. The team distributed masks and shirts to the identified beneficiaries, as well as shoes, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. The beneficiaries also qualified for financial assistance from the national government through the initiative of GP Partylist Rep. Jose Padiernos. “Huwag ho kayong magpasalamat sa amin. Sa totoo lang po kami po ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan n’yo po kami ng pagkakataon na magserbisyo sa inyo. Magta-trabaho po ako para sa Pilipino. Iyan po ang pwede kong i-alay sa inyo, ang kasipagan ko sa trabaho,” Go said in a video message. “Utusan n’yo lang po ako, parang kapitbahay lang tayo bilang isang adopted son ng inyong probinsya. Ayaw kong ituring nyo ako na ibang tao,” he added. Go stressed the significance of extending aid to impoverished individuals, and said government should prioritize the needs of the poor who were most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises. As principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, Go vowed to monitor the continuous operations of the Malasakit Centers, which has helped more than seven million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health (DOH). There are 159 Malasakit Centers nationwide so far. Indigent patients in Nueva Ecija can seek the services of the Malasakit Centers located at Eduardo L. Joson Memorial Hospital and Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center (PJGMRMC), both in Cabanatuan City; and in Talavera General Hospital in Talavera town. “Ang Malasakit Center po ay batas na. Isinulong ko noon, nu’ng naging senador po ako nung 2019. Pinirmahan ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte. It’s a one stop shop. Nasa loob na po ng ospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno – PhilHealth, PCSO, DOH, DSWD na handang tumulong po sa ating mga kababayan. Para po ‘yan sa mga poor and indigent patients. Lapitan n’yo lang po ang pinakamalapit na Malasakit Center sa inyong lugar,” Go said. The senator also highlighted that Super Health Centers will be established in Cabanatuan City, San Leonardo, Aliga, Bongabon, Llanera, Science City of Muñoz, Zaragoza, Sto. Domingo and Rizal — the last two of which he personally inspected in February. The Super Health Centers are improved versions of polyclinics that offer basic health services, including 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 (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center and telemedicine. Through the concerted efforts of DOH and fellow lawmakers, adequate funding has been allocated in the national budget for the establishment of 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has supported several infrastructure projects in the province to help boost the local economy. Among these are the construction of the Talavera National High School Amphitheater; the rehabilitation of roads in Cabiao, General Tinio, Pantabangan, Zaragoza and Cabanatuan City; the construction of flood mitigation structures in General Tinio, Quezon, San Antonio and Zaragoza; the construction of multipurpose buildings in Gabaldon, Sta. Rosa and Cabanatuan City; the completion of the Dr. PJGMRMC in Cabanatuan City; the reconstruction of the Llanera public market; the rehabilitation of the Baloc public market; and the installation of streetlights in Zaragoza. The post Bong Go extends assistance to indigents in Lupao, Nueva Ecija appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sovereign interest
The Philippines is earning plaudits for the Marcos administration’s tough balancing act of asserting its territorial claim on the West Philippine Sea while preventing the tense situation with China from escalating. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has made it his policy to improve relations with the United States that were strained under the last administration, while continuing to engage with China but recognizing the need to respect each country’s position. Sydney-based think tank Lowy Institute cited recent moves by the country that showed it will not back down from China’s assertiveness, but neither will it take actions to provoke its anger. “While Beijing attempts to tighten its grip on the region with a new ten-dash line, a multi-billion dollar military modernization drive is underway in the Philippines,” a Lowy report said. It said many analysts believe that Manila’s pronouncements about confrontation are “gestures” rather than real attempts to challenge China. An open conflict would have tremendous geopolitical and economic costs for the Philippines. “Beijing remains Manila’s top trade partner and import supplier,” Lowy said. It cited instances in which the Philippines stepped back from adding fuel to the fire. “The Philippines’ decision to skip last month’s joint military exercise with the United States, Australia and Japan in the South China Sea is seen as a way of avoiding conflict with China,” it noted. It said that Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro had refused to cooperate with Taiwan on security issues, which has been viewed as the country’s continued adherence to the One-China policy. “Despite his harsh remarks on Beijing, some Chinese international relations experts are optimistic about the appointment of Teodoro Locsin as Manila’s Special Envoy to China as he has not only favored cooperation with Beijing but has been critical of the West,” it added. Lowy said Locsin’s appointment is read as Manila’s attempt to stabilize ties with Beijing, adding that “others are disappointed with the choice.” This recognition from independent observers indicates the Marcos administration is skillfully threading a thin line to show it is insisting on its sovereign stake while pushing back against Beijing. Manila’s resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre landing craft, for instance, which is considered the eye of the storm in the current friction, has been a pure play by Philippine forces. Manila’s supply and coast guard ships are constantly in a game of tag with huge Chinese Coast Guard vessels which try to frustrate the provision of supplies to the platoon of Marines guarding the outpost. Last month, China’s coast guard water-cannoned a Navy supply boat. Beijing’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs justified this as “safeguarding our sovereignty in accordance with law” and criticized Manila for “ignoring China’s goodwill and sincerity.” China then demanded the Philippines remove the beached Sierra Madre. Lowy reported that “Manila has further aggravated Beijing by describing the danger of conflict in the Taiwan Strait as a ‘major security concern,’ in its newly published National Security Policy.” It quoted various state mouthpieces in China as having criticized former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s condemnation of the ten-dash line and his claim that Manila “wouldn’t resist a fight” for its maritime rights. China has always referred to the Duterte period as when an ideal engagement had existed with the Philippines. Duterte initially exerted efforts to win the trust of the Chinese but had always indicated to President Xi Jinping that he would have to raise at some point the decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration that favored the Philippines. China continues to follow its playbook that the Philippines is being manipulated by the US to take bold actions in the West Philippine Sea conflict. Beijing glosses over the fact that when the late President Noynoy Aquino bungled the handling of the 2012 faceoff with China, it was the US that abandoned the Philippines as it did nothing to stop the reclamation of features in the disputed area. Similarly, China has advocated dialogue but, thus far, nothing has come of it, even after the Philippines gave way to its wishes over the past six and more years. The post Sovereign interest appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go pushes for increased Cancer Assistance Fund
Senator Christopher "Bong Go" emphasized the importance of allocating sufficient funds for specific healthcare programs, such as those addressing cancer, tuberculosis, and mental health disorders, during the Committee on Finance hearing for the Department of Health's (DOH) budget on Thursday, 28 September. "We must also give enough focus and ensure funding for our programs to address other diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis, and mental health disorders," Go said. He pointed out that the Cancer Assistance Fund (CAF) for this year was set at P500 million through the collective efforts of lawmakers last year. Go proposed for this to be doubled to P1 billion for the next year. However, he expressed concern over the current reported underutilization of the fund. "Pakisilip po ninyo ito. Sa dami ng cancer patients na nangangailangan ng tulong, sigurado naman pong mauubos yan at hindi katanggap-tanggap na hindi ninyo magastos ang pondo sa pagtulong sa kanila," he added. Drawing from his previous advocacy, Go has been a consistent voice for increased funding for the CAF. "Dapat patuloy na pataasin ang budget para sa cancer assistance fund," he said in an earlier interview. He also stressed the financial burden that cancer places on families, stating, "Talagang pipilayan ang pamilya tuwing nagkakanser ka, pilay na po ang inyong pamilya, halos hindi na po nakakatrabaho 'yan, nakafocus na po sa pagpapagamot." The senator's call for increased funding aligns with the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA), under Republic Act No. 11215, signed by former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2019. Within NICCA, CAF plays a pivotal role in offering financial support to cancer patients across the nation. "The more na dapat po ay dagdagan natin ang pondo para sa cancer assistance fund, the more we should invest sa ating healthcare system," Go urged. He also emphasized the need to bridge the gap between the high cost of cancer treatment and the financial means of those who need it most. "It is for this reason that he continues to advocate for a larger allocation for the CAF and recognizes that every peso invested in cancer assistance is an investment in the health and well-being of countless individuals and their families," he said. Furthermore, Go expressed his support for a proposed cancer fund intended to aid Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), a project championed by the late Secretary Susan "Toots" Ople of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). "This initiative highlights the urgent requirement to offer aid and compassion to the modern-day heroes who are confronting cancer while working far away from their homes," he concluded. The post Bong Go pushes for increased Cancer Assistance Fund appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Peace and order key to progress — Misamis Occidental governor
From being a hotbed of crime in the South, the success of peace and order initiatives in Misamis Occidental has turned it into one of Northern Mindanao’s leaders in development indicators, said the province's Governor, Henry S. Oaminal. In an interview, Oaminal shared the progress milestones the province has achieved in less than a decade in its infrastructure, labor and employment and economy. Before Misamis Occidental could achieve such leaps forward, the governor recalled the poor state of law enforcement in the province, marked by crime, insurgency and even terrorism, as a “challenging part of our history." The province could have been “the drug and organized crime capital of Mindanao,” said Oaminal. Apart from the threat that the Kuratong Baleleng Gang posed, rebels were also present in the area. The governor attributed the province’s liberation from crime and violence to the cooperation of local government units with law enforcement improvement efforts, as well as the work of the previous administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte. “Ozamiznons can now freely walk without any fear of harassment from the bad elements,” said Oaminal. This, according to him, is the realization of one of the tenets of his 5M platform — “Misamisnon Magpuyong Malinawon Malambuonug Malipayon,” or “Misamisnon Live Peacefully, Progressively and Happily.” With criminal threats under control, the province is witnessing consistent progress. More businesses are being established, said the governor, “and the job opportunities that were created out of it are getting better.” From being one of the poorest provinces, Misamis Occidental posted in 2021 “the highest significant improvement in poverty incidence among families,” according to data by the Philippine Statistics Authority — from 32.7 percent poverty incidence in 2018, to 23.3 percent in the same period in 2021. According to Oaminal, lately the poverty incidence has further decreased to 18.30 percent. Public infrastructure also heavily contributed to the province’s development. “We gave more attention to the improvement of our roads,” said Oaminal. During his three terms in congress, the governor shared that municipal, provincial and national roads were 95-percent paved. And through good fiscal management, the province continues to establish more health centers and improve educational facilities for Misamisnons. Peace and order initiatives will continue to be one of the priorities of the provincial government, Oaminal, because “when there is peace, there is development.” The post Peace and order key to progress — Misamis Occidental governor appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»