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ICC probe: Allow now, challenge later
The Philippines may just let the International Criminal Court’s investigation into the bloody drug war of the previous administration roll in the meantime and then challenge its jurisdiction later, according to Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez Thursday. The government, whose plea to block the probe fell on deaf ears, has high hopes the international tribunal would eventually grant its appeal to lay off the country. “The proper and only course of action for the Republic of the Philippines is to raise the issue of jurisdiction when the case is eventually filed in the ICC. Jurisdiction can be questioned at any stage of the proceedings,” said Rodriguez, a lawyer. “When the case is brought to the ICC, we raise the issue of jurisdiction, and the Philippines will surely secure its dismissal for lack of jurisdiction,” he added. Calls have been made to end the ICC’s probe into former President Rodrigo Duterte’s “war on drugs” that claimed thousands of lives during his six years in office that started in 2016. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has firmly maintained that the country would not engage with the ICC, insisting the government would not let the court interfere in the country’s business. ‘Oplan Tokhang’ Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who during the Duterte administration led the anti-drug campaign known as “Oplan Tokhang,” had previously said he was ready in case a warrant of arrest was served on him, but only if by Philippine authorities and not by any foreigner directed by the ICC. But for Rodriguez, the government officials concerned should compose themselves and study the ICC decision well. “There is no need for our government officials to make many extraneous comments on the decision,” he said. Some 6,000 persons were reportedly killed in Duterte’s drug war, according to government data, the majority of whom were from low-income families. However, local and international human rights organizations estimated the number of victims at more than 30,000. Meanwhile, senators expressed dismay at the ICC decision that turned down the Philippine appeal, saying there was no need for it since the Philippines has a “working justice system.” Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. on Thursday said the ICC should not be allowed to meddle in the country’s affairs. “We do not need to remind them that we are a free, independent, and sovereign nation governed by our laws,” he said. Revilla said that since Philippine government officials will be held liable for violations, the laws of the country should prevail and not of foreign prosecutors. “I am befuddled by the ICC’s pursuit of this obvious baseless persecution while legitimate concerns and crimes against humanity are being perpetrated in other parts of the world as we speak. It is obvious the ICC’s interest here is not justice but something else entirely,” he said. Operating very well Senator Mark Villar said there was no need for any international body to intervene in the country’s justice system, stressing that Philippine democracy is fully functioning. He said the Philippine justice system is “operating very well” and it could address its own human rights concerns. “Our government has a very strong justice system that is working so I don’t think we need international interference. We have our courts, we have a strong justice system, that’s what I believe,” Villar said in a recent interview. Aside from Duterte and Dela Rosa, the ICC report included Senator Christopher “Bong” Go and incumbent Vice President Sara Duterte in the probe. Unfazed Dela Rosa has remained unfazed by the ICC ruling and is even mulling another Senate term, although he said the ICC probe will affect a reelection bid. “Since I am identified with the former president, I may not get the votes. The votes I will get will be those in support of [former] president Duterte. But the support may even grow since many Filipinos are also angered by [the ICC’s] interference in our sovereignty, so its impact on my reelection bid may even be positive,” he said. Dela Rosa reiterated that the drug war was launched by the Duterte administration not for any personal gain but “to protect the Filipino people from the drug menace, especially our youth.” The post ICC probe: Allow now, challenge later appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Revilla urges DPWH, MMDA to promptly address Metro Manila flooding
Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. on Thursday urged the Metro Manila Development Authority and the Department of Public Works and Highways to immediately address the flooding problem in the National Capital Region amid the rainy weather brought by the combined effects of low-pressure area and southwest monsoon. Revilla lamented there is a need to identify factors contributing to the quick and sudden flooding in Metro Manila—noting that some of these were not flooded-prone areas before. The DPWH earlier declared that they are prepared for the effects of heavy rains, noting that pumping stations across NCR have a “100 percent” capacity to handle the rainy season. Despite the DPWH’s pronouncement, Revilla said some areas in NCR are now submerged in floods which he blamed for the heavy traffic congestion being experienced in the busiest roads. “Small vehicles were not able to pass several roads and highways. People want to see the DPWH declaration that a total of 13, 224 flood control structures are being readied nationwide because this problem should not be happening and must be addressed as soon as possible,” Revilla told reporters. He cited that motorists passing through the South Luzon Expressway are being delayed by heavy traffic after the heavy rains. He added that flooding caused “standstill traffic” from Laguna to Crossing to EDSA roads. “The standstill was due to the rapid flooding of low-lying portions of the road, worsened by the suspected clogging of drains where water should be flowing freely in case of floods brought about by heavy rains,” Revilla underscored. The senator said the many commuters and motorists traveling from provinces going to Metro Manila supposedly skipped their meals due to long drives amid heavy traffic. “[They] have their meals inside the vehicles because they are already starving, while some chose just to walk to get to EDSA due to the heavy traffic,” he said, expressing concerns over the welfare of the motorists and public vehicle commuters “who repeatedly experience such sad scenario every time rainy season ushers in.” Meanwhile, the MMDA said it is currently conducting a flood monitoring effort in the newly-launched command center. Based on its monitoring, MMDA said a knee-deep flood was reported in Sun Valley, Parañaque, which was not passable to all types of vehicles as of 7:55 a.m. Moreover, the Office of the Civil Defense said the flooding due to torrential rains resulted in heavy traffic in the SLEX-Alabang area as Metro Manila is experiencing light to moderate with occasional heavy rains due to the LPA. The post Revilla urges DPWH, MMDA to promptly address Metro Manila flooding appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go condemns killing of radio broadcaster in Oriental Mindoro
In response to the killing of a radio broadcaster in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, Sen. Bong Go expressed his strong condemnation of the act and called for justice to be served. The victim, Cresenciano Bunduquin, a well-known radio broadcaster and commentator, was shot dead by two assailants while opening his sari-sari store on 5 May. One of the suspects, Narciso Ignacio Guntan, died after Bunduquin’s son chased and hit the motorcycle that the former was driving. However, the gunman responsible for the shooting fled the crime scene and has been evading capture. Authorities said that they have already identified the gunman and will soon be apprehended. During an ambush interview after personally aiding indigents in Naga City, Camarines Sur on 3 June, Go recognized the sacrifices made by media workers who often put themselves on the frontlines to bring news to the public. He stressed the importance of delivering justice for the slain journalist and called on the Philippine National Police, the National Bureau of Investigation, and all law enforcement agencies to swiftly investigate the case and hold the perpetrators accountable. "Kinokondena po natin ito, 'yung pagpatay po ng mga media na nagtatrabaho lang po. Sila nga po ang nagdadala ng balita," Go stressed. "Alam n'yo, panahon ng pandemya, panahon ng bagyo, sila po ang nagdadala ng magagandang balita at accurate information," he added. Police authorities have stated that Bunduquin did not receive any death threats prior to the incident. Additionally, investigators have disclosed that the suspect who was killed had prior involvement in drug-related activities. The post Bong Go condemns killing of radio broadcaster in Oriental Mindoro appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Kuya Bong wants ‘iron hand’ vs druggie cops
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go emphasized Wednesday the need to establish an “iron-hand” mechanism against cops found involved in illegal drug trade activities. In an interview with reporters, Go lamented the need to impose stricter management of law enforcement operations so that the gains of the war on drugs campaign by the past administration of President Rodrigo Duterte “will not be put to waste.” “We really need to apply iron-hand to these policemen. They really need to be scared,” Go said, adding that once the illegal drug activities will proliferate anew, corruption and criminalities will follow. “The fear like before has gone. I am in awe of what President Duterte started when he fight illegal drugs in the country,” he added. The lawmaker also stressed that he is saddened that those cops that are involved in illegal activities are just putting a stain on to “clean reputation” built by the forefathers of the Philippine National Police. Go was referring to the initial results of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs’ ongoing probe on the arrest of Police Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo Jr. for sneaking portion of P6.7 billion of “shabu” that was hauled in October last year — incriminating massive PNP cover-up of the case. He then urged the National Police Commission to immediately file criminal cases against those cops that have links to illegal drug syndicates as he expressed full support to the eagerness of committee chairman Senator Ronald de la Rosa “to really determine the source of this big-time shabu.” While he commends the current administration’s fight against illegal drugs, Go said there is a need to put extra effort to sow fear against criminals, particularly those cops that are part of syndicates. Meantime, the senator also pushed for the institutionalization of the Shared Service Facilities project under the Department of Trade and Industry as the Senate approved on the third and final reading Senate Bill 2021 seeking to amend Republic Act 6977 or the Magna Carta for Small Enterprises as amended by RA 9501, otherwise known as the Magna Carta for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. “As a nation, we must recognize the immense potential and significance of these enterprises in driving our economy forward, creating jobs, and uplifting the lives of our people,” Go said. “MSMEs form the backbone of our economy, comprising a significant portion of our business landscape. They are the engines of innovation, providing employment opportunities, and contributing to the overall socio-economic progress of our communities,” he added. The post Kuya Bong wants ‘iron hand’ vs druggie cops appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go wants ‘iron hand’ vs. cops linked to illegal drug trade
Senator Bong Go emphasized on Wednesday the need to establish an “iron-hand” mechanism against cops found involved in illegal drug trade activities. In an interview with reporters, Go lamented the need to impose stricter management of law enforcement operations so that the gains of the war on drugs campaign by the past administration of President Rodrigo Duterte “will not be put to waste.” “Kailangan talaga, itong mga kapulisan, medyo kamay na bakal ang kailangang pairalin para sa kanila. Kailangang takutin talaga ang mga ‘to,” he said. Once the illegal drug activities will proliferate anew, Go said corruption and criminalities will follow. “Wala na po young takot gaya noon. Ako po’y nasasayangan sa inumpisahan ni Pangulong Duterte, noong nilabanan niya ang droga sa bansa,” he added. Go is saddened that those cops that are involved in illegal activities are just putting a stain on to ‘clean reputation’ built by the forefathers of the Philippine National Police. He was referring to the initial results of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs’ ongoing probe on the arrest of Police Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo Jr. for sneaking portion of P6.7-billion of ‘shabu’ that was hauled in October last year—incriminating massive PNP cover-up of the case. Go then urged the National Police Commission to immediately file criminal cases against those cops that have links to illegal drug syndicates. The senator expressed full support to the eagerness of committee chairman Senator Ronald Dela Rosa “to really determine the source of this big-time shabu.” While he commends the current administration's fight against illegal drugs, Go said there is a need to put extra effort to sow fear against criminals, particularly those cops that are part of syndicates. "Medyo tapangan lang natin ng konti," he said. The post Bong Go wants ‘iron hand’ vs. cops linked to illegal drug trade appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go wants ‘iron hand’ vs cops linked to illegal drug trade
Senator Bong Go emphasized on Wednesday the need to establish an “iron-hand” mechanism against cops found involved in illegal drug trade activities. In an interview with reporters, Go lamented the need to impose stricter management of law enforcement operations so that the gains of the war on drugs campaign by the past administration of President Rodrigo Duterte “will not be put to waste.” “Kailangan talaga, itong mga kapulisan, medyo kamay na bakal ang kailangang pairalin para sa kanila. Kailangang takutin talaga ang mga ‘to,” he said. Once the illegal drug activities will proliferate anew, Go said corruption and criminalities will follow. “Wala na po young takot gaya noon. Ako po’y nasasayangan sa inumpisahan ni Pangulong Duterte, noong nilabanan niya ang droga sa bansa,” he added. Go is saddened that those cops that are involved in illegal activities are just putting a stain on to ‘clean reputation’ built by the forefathers of the Philippine National Police. He was referring to the initial results of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs’ ongoing probe on the arrest of Police Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo Jr. for sneaking portion of P6.7-billion of ‘shabu’ that was hauled in October last year—incriminating massive PNP cover-up of the case. Go then urged the National Police Commission to immediately file criminal cases against those cops that have links to illegal drug syndicates. The senator expressed full support to the eagerness of committee chairman Senator Ronald Dela Rosa “to really determine the source of this big-time shabu.” While he commends the current administration's fight against illegal drugs, Go said there is a need to put extra effort to sow fear against criminals, particularly those cops that are part of syndicates. "Medyo tapangan lang natin ng konti," he said. The post Bong Go wants ‘iron hand’ vs cops linked to illegal drug trade appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
To `sow fear’ among scalawags, Go proposes Duterte anti-drug czar
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Tuesday raised the idea of making former president Rodrigo Duterte the country’s anti-drug czar to “sow fear” among cops involved in criminalities. Go made this suggestion during the discussion of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs on the possible cover-up by the Philippine National Police among its ranks involved in the P6.7-billion “shabu” haul in Manila last year. At the hearing, Go asked former PNP Chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. if Duterte would be helpful should he be tapped as the country’s anti-drug czar by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “If ever, well. It’s a prerogative of the President as the appointing authority. If ever, do you think it would be helpful if President Duterte will be appointed as drug czar?" Go said in vernacular. Azurin responded that he will be supportive of any government initiative to eliminate the distribution of illegal drugs in the country. “I don’t know if I can comment on that, what the setup would be, but anything on the campaign against illegal drugs, I will be supportive,” he said. Considering the number of cops allegedly involved in the supposed “recycling” of confiscated drugs, Go sees the efforts of the Duterte administration against drug activities and criminalities might be put to waste “if it continues to proliferate.” “Let’s not waste what former President Duterte started to fight against illegal drugs. Once the illegal drugs return, we know that criminality and corruption will also go back,” Go said. Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, the committee chairperson, expressed dismay and frustration over the alleged involvement of policemen in the “shabu” mess considering that the country’s war on drugs campaign has already reached the international scene. “I feel bad about it, you listen to me all policemen, my case has already reached the ICC because of our fight against illegal drugs. Despite this, all you think about is money. You are even in a syndicate. I can't digest this if this is happening to the police—joining a syndicate,” Dela Rosa said in vernacular. Dela Rosa said the Senate panel has acquired substantial basis to conclude that there was “really an attempt to cover up” the arrest of PMSgt. Rodolfo Mayo during an illegal drug operation last year. “For me, it is an attempted cover-up. It was not fully consummated by the fact that in the end, Mayo was also charged,” he said. Mayo was physically present during the second and third hearings on his case. But he did not divulge anything nor implicate anyone in the illegal matter. The senators cited Mayo in contempt for refusing to cooperate with Dela Rosa warned the attempted cover-up “has yet to be seen.” Senators also cited Mayo’s superior, National Capital Region Drug Enforcement officer-in-charge Lieutenant Colonel Arnulfo Ibañez, in contempt for testifying that he was not aware of his subordinate’s activities. The post To `sow fear’ among scalawags, Go proposes Duterte anti-drug czar appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DSWD’s Malasakit Centers commitment lauded
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go commended the Department of Social Welfare and Development for the agency’s assurance that it will continue to support and help strengthen the Malasakit Centers program, among other initiatives that can uplift the lives of the poor. Malasakit Centers are one-stop shops that provide particularly poor and indigent patients with more convenient access to medical assistance programs from the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. To date, 157 operational centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the DoH. At the Commission on Appointments confirmation hearing in the Senate on Tuesday, the lawmaker — who also chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography — asked DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian on the status of the deployment of DSWD personnel in Malasakit Centers as mandated by law. “The department… always makes it a point to support all laws that are mandated on us to be the lead agency or the support agency. We have full deployment of social workers and case managers in the Malasakit Centers,” said Gatchalian, whose ad interim appointment was supported by Go and consequently confirmed in the CA plenary that day. The post DSWD’s Malasakit Centers commitment lauded appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DSWD support important to Malasakit Center program — Sen. Go
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go commended the Department of Social Welfare and Development for the agency’s assurance that it will continue to support and help strengthen the Malasakit Centers program, among other initiatives that can uplift the lives of the poor. Malasakit Centers are one-stop shops that provide particularly poor and indigent patients with more convenient access to medical assistance programs from the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. To date, 157 operational centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the DOH. At the Commission on Appointments confirmation hearing in the Senate on Tuesday, 16 May, Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, asked DSWD Secretary Rexlon “Rex” Gatchalian on the status of the deployment of DSWD personnel in Malasakit Centers as mandated by law. “The department… always makes it a point to support all laws that are mandated on us to be the lead agency or the support agency. We have full deployment of social workers and case managers in the Malasakit Centers,” Gatchalian replied, whose ad interim appointment was supported by Go before he was eventually confirmed in the CA plenary that day. Go also inquired about efforts to streamline and harmonize requirements in availing medical and financial assistance from the government. The Senator highlighted the concept of a ‘one-stop shop’ as envisioned in Malasakit Centers where poor and indigent patients will not need to go outside of the hospital and visit other offices just to avail of medical assistance. “Mr. Senator, you have our assurance that we will make sure to work with your office because you’re the (principal) author (and sponsor) of (the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019) … there are provisions there that we can further streamline so that ‘yung mga tao, hindi na ho sila pabalik-balik sa social worker, punta sa Malasakit Center, but rather, everything should be processed inside the Malasakit Center the way you envisioned it,” the secretary answered. Sec. Gatchalian assured that the DSWD continues to prioritize the Malasakit Centers program, as mandated under Republic Act No. 11463, sharing his plans for the agency to digitalize the process of providing other forms of assistance to Filipinos. Recognizing the need for more efficient and accessible services, Gatchalian assured, “moving forward, … yung digitalization plan natin is to see to it na dapat pagpasok ng pasyente sa loob ng hospital, and this applies to our guarantee letters po, and, hopefully, later on, the DOH can also probably adopt the same platform, dapat end-to-end na ho siya.” For his part, Go expressed his gratitude for Gatchalian’s shared vision for the Malasakit Centers program, saying, “Alam n’yo, ‘yung pamasahe, malaking bagay rin po ‘yon sa mga mahihirap nating mga kababayan. Makakatipid po sila sa pamasahe, panahon na po na hindi na sila kailangan pang pabalik-balik. Tulungan po natin sila. …Yung mga mahihirap, sila po ‘yung pumupunta sa mga government hospitals po.” Expressing his support for Gatchalian, Go looks forward to continuing working with the DSWD in helping particularly poor and indigent Filipinos, adding “Secretary Rex, we are honored to have you as the Secretary of the DSWD, and I have no doubt that you will exceed our expectations. Siguraduhin natin ang mabilis at tapat na serbisyo sa ating mga kababayan sa inyong pamumuno. Let us continue to serve and protect our underprivileged kababayans. Together, let us build a better country for them and the generations to come.” “Isa lamang po ang hinihiling ko sa inyo, Secretary Rex, huwag po natin kalimutan yung mga poor… kababayans, yung mga hopeless and helpless na wala pong matakbuhan kundi tayo dito sa gobyerno, tulungan po natin sila. Sana po maipagpatuloy natin ang mga magagandang nasimulan ng Duterte administration at galingan pa po natin ngayon, sa panahon ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos,” Go added. “Alam kong gusto ninyo pong tulungan rin ang mga kababayan nating mahihirap. I know that your heart is for the poor, at kaisa po ninyo ako as you fulfill the mandate of your agency… I am confident that the DSWD is in good hands,” the senator concluded. The post DSWD support important to Malasakit Center program — Sen. Go appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis’ now a TV series
The hit and classic movie Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis is finally getting a spinoff in the small screen via GMA Network. From being an iconic film to an action-comedy TV series soon, Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis is headlined by Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., multi-talented actress Beauty Gonzalez and sought-after Sparkle leading lady Max Collins. [caption id="attachment_123273" align="aligncenter" width="546"] SEN. ‘Bong’ Revilla Jr.[/caption] Starring in the feel-good series are Kate Valdez, Kelvin Miranda and Raphael Landicho. Introducing Angel Leighton together with Niño Muhlach, ER Ejercito, Ronnie Ricketts, Mae Bautista, Archie Alamania and Dennis Marasigan. The program follows the story of Police Major Bartolome Reynaldo (Revilla), who is admired for his good looks, fearlessness and popularity with the ladies. But there is one thing that grounds Tolome and that’s his fear of his wife, Gloria (Gonzalez). Tolome gains a lot of enemies for being extremely fierce over the criminals. Even the cops who bend the rules also want to see him fail. Despite this, Tolome remains focused in his line of duty with the support of his feisty yet loving wife. However, Gloria can also be very jealous especially with all the girls surrounding Tolome. One day, Tolome rescues some women who are allegedly kidnapped and one of them is Elize (Collins), a beautiful and sexy lady. Elize vows to work with Tolome to track down the kidnappers. Surprisingly, the investigation leads them to a deeper and darker case. The series’ main director is Enzo Williams who will handle the action scenes while associate director Frasco Mortiz will be in charge of the comedy scenes. Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis will premiere soon on GMA-7. The post ‘Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis’ now a TV series appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go pushes anew for Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers
Sen. Bong Go renewed his push for the passage of his filed Senate Bill No. 1191 which seeks to provide a Magna Carta for Seafarers. The senator, also Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, cited the significant role of Filipino seafarers in global trade and marine transportation as well as the huge contribution of all overseas Filipino workers to the country's economy. The bill, if passed into law, aims to cover a wide range of issues that usually affect seafarers. It shall help secure the right of the country's seafarers to decent and humane employment and set a guide for seafarers on training, overseas employment, and retirement. “I have been relentless in pursuing the interests and welfare of our overseas Filipino workers, including seafarers. Hanggang ngayon ay patuloy kong ipaglalaban ang kapakanan ng ating mga seafarers dahil hindi po biro ang kanilang trabaho na mapalayo sa kanilang mga pamilya para lang mabigyan sila ng mas magandang kinabukasan,” expressed Go. “The Philippines has been the primary source of maritime labor and considered the manning capital of seafarers globally since 1987. Of the 1.5 million mariners worldwide, 25% are Filipino sea-based workers, making them the single biggest nationality bloc in the maritime industry,” he cited previously. In an open letter of the United Filipino Seafarers Labor Federation to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. and to senators, published recently, the group reiterated its support for the passage of House Bill No. 7325, also known as the Magna Carta for Seafarers. It also sought for better protection for seafarers, particularly regarding settlement of various employment-related claims. “Katulad ng pagsuporta natin sa mga OFWs hanggang sa naisabatas ang panukalang nagtatag sa Department of Migrant Workers, nais ko rin na mabigyan natin ng kaukulang suporta at proteksyon ang ating mga seafarers, kung merong Magna Carta para sa kanila, mas mabibigyan natin sila ng proteksyon at mas maraming suporta,” said Go. Meanwhile, Go thanked the European Commission (EC) after its decision to continue recognizing certificates issued by the Philippines that will allow Filipino seafarers to continue working on European Union (EU)-flagged ships. It can be recalled that in December 2021, EC informed the Philippine government that the recognition of its seafarer certificates would be withdrawn unless serious measures were taken, including compliance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for seafarers. “Nais ko rin pong pasalamatan ang European Commission sa inyong desisyon dahil ito po ay nakatulong sa halos 50,000 seafarers, ayon sa datos ng Department of Migrant Workers. Isa lamang itong patunay na ginagawa talaga ng gobyerno ang kanilang makakaya upang siguraduhin na mapangalagaan ang kapakanan ng ating mga manggagawa,” said Go. “Bilang dagdag na suporta sa seafarers, tulungan rin nating maiangat ang kanilang kapasidad sa kanilang trabaho para masigurong at par sa international standards ang kanilang kakayahan. Proteksyunan natin ang kanilang mga karapatan,” he added. The senator then underscored that the proposed Magna Carta for Seafarers is particularly crucial for protecting the rights and welfare of seafarers in situations where they are vulnerable or exploited, such as during emergencies, accidents, or conflicts. The Magna Carta seeks to systematize the rights of the seafarers into a single reference law, including their right to just terms and conditions of work, self-organization, educational advancement and training, information and consultation, fair treatment in the event of an accident, and against discrimination. It also aims to provide standard terms and conditions of employment for seafarers, including provisions related to wages, hours of work and rest, leaves, and social welfare benefits. If enacted, it shall likewise mandate ship owners to provide medical care, both on-board and ashore, as well as a financial security system to assist our seafarers in case of injuries. Believing that all Filipino migrant workers, including seafarers, should be given the necessary support and benefits that they rightfully deserve, Go was instrumental in the enactment of Republic Act No. 11641, creating the DMW. The Senate version of the Act, Senate Bill No. 2234, was co-authored and co-sponsored by Go. DMW serves as the lead agency for implementing policies, plans and programs that will ensure the protection, promotion of interests, timely resolution of problems, and effective reintegration of OFWs. “Regalo po natin ito sa ating mga OFWs po na nagsasakripisyo po. Malaking inaambag nila sa ating bayan, mga modern-day heroes natin, para po ito sa inyo, itong Department of Migrant Workers,” Go cited. “Bukod sa DMW, nandiyan na rin ang OFW hospital na naipatayo noong panahon ni dating pangulong Duterte. May Malasakit Center na rin doon para matulungan ang OFWs at kanilang mga pamilya sa pagpapagamot. Ito po ay pangarap lamang natin noon na naisakatuparan na ngayon. Patuloy po nating ipaglalaban ang kapakanan ng mga Pilipino nasaan man sila sa mundo,” he assured. The post Bong Go pushes anew for Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Protect 150K Pinoys in Taiwan, Go urges DMW
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go reiterated his call for the Department of Migrant Workers, to closely monitor the development of the growing tensions between Taiwan and China to prepare for necessary contingency measures to protect the welfare of 150,000 Taiwan-based overseas Filipino workers. Go, in an interview during a relief operation for fire victims in Parañaque City on 12 April, underscored the need for the government to prioritize the safety and welfare of OFWs. “As former president Rodrigo Duterte said during the UN General Assembly in 2020, ‘when elephants fight, it is the grass that gets trampled flat.’ Our country is close to Taiwan. In this situation, the Philippines is the grass. We will be caught in the crossfire if these two giants fight,” Go said in Filipino China recently simulated a three-day air and sea drill, dubbed the “Joint Sword” drills, around the Taiwan Strait. According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the said military exercises were meant to be a “stern warning to the provocative activities of Taiwan’s independence secessionist forces and their collusion with external forces.” He said he has his full trust that President Bongbong Marcos Jr. will prioritize the interest of fellow Filipinos and the country. “It’s better to be a friend to all and enemy to none. It’s hard for us to empathize. Filipinos just want to live quietly. Importantly, the health and life of every OFW in Taiwan may be affected in case of trouble there,” he added. When asked if the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement will create a new conflict, Go said the government must prioritize what is best for Filipinos. “I’m sure our government and our military will not allow us to be used or we will be trapped,” he added. Meanwhile, Go has expressed his support for the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s plan to investigate Philippine National Police officials reportedly linked to a billion-peso drug haul. “You know, the truth must come out. Truth always,” he said. The fight against illegal drugs, he said, should continue. “We don’t want to waste what former president (Rodrigo) Duterte started against illegal drugs. When illegal drugs are back, crime will come back, government corruption will come back,” Go said in Filipino. The PNP, on 11 April, welcomed the DILG’s decision to probe the arrest of former police officer Rodolfo Mayo who was implicated in the P6.7-billion drug haul in October last year. The DILG expressed doubts that Mayo acted alone, indicating that there may have been other officers involved. “There is no forgiveness for those involved in illegal drugs. You know, it’s a big sin to our countrymen when you are involved in illegal drugs, especially the police who are supposed to implement the law,” he added. Go cited the need to separate the few bad apples from the many honest and dedicated police officers who are working hard to keep the community safe. “We fully support our police and military, they just have to do their job right for our countrymen,” he said. Earlier, Go filed Senate Bill 422 which, if passed into law, will entitle any officer or enlisted personnel of the AFP and Philippine National Police facing charges before the prosecutor’s office, court, or any competent body, arising from an incident related to the performance of official duty, to free legal assistance. He added that in the past, some police officers were wrongfully accused, prompting former president Duterte and himself to offer legal aid. The post Protect 150K Pinoys in Taiwan, Go urges DMW appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ombudsman not appealing Revilla acquittal in graft case
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