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2 activists kidnapped in Pangasinan
The Commission on Human Rights has called for a search for two environmental rights defenders and church workers who were reportedly kidnapped in Pangasinan last weekend......»»
CHR probes Davao drug war deaths
The Commission on Human Rights yesterday expressed grave concern over Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte’s recent declaration of a war on drugs in the city......»»
2 Pangasinan-based environmental defenders abducted
by DOMINIC GUTOMAN Bulatlat.com MANILA – Two Pangasinan-based environmental defenders and organizers were violently mauled and dragged into an SUV at about 8 p.m. on March 24 in Barangay Polo, San Carlos, Pangasinan, according to human rights group Karapatan-Central Luzon Karapatan – Central Luzon said the abduction of Francisco “Eco” Dangla III and Axielle “Jak”… The post 2 Pangasinan-based environmental defenders abducted appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
Abduction by state agents: An isolated incident or a growing pattern?
By: CMFR StaffPosted on: March 18, 2024, 3:52 pm JEERS TO the media for reporting the abduction in Batangas of Jose Marie Estiller on February 20 as an isolated incident and for not providing the necessary background of past cases of abductions and enforced disappearances by state agents in the country. The lack of context ignores the continuing reality of human rights violations against activists.....»»
Abduction by state agents: An isolated incident or a growing pattern
JEERS TO the media for reporting the abduction in Batangas of Jose Marie Estiller on February 20 as an isolated incident and for not providing the necessary background of past cases of abductions and enforced disappearances by state agents in the country. The lack of context ignores the continuing reality of human rights violations against activists and critics during the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.Media.....»»
FEU Tech named Top University for Real Impact for third consecutive year
Real-world impact and contributions to society are the best measures of education. It stands as the most valid indicator of effective learning. The World University Rankings for Innovation has revolutionized the way we measure academic success, putting emphasis on tangible outcomes that shape communities and drive progress. Leading the charge among Philippine universities, FEU Tech (Far Eastern University Institute of Technology) has risen through the ranks of this prestigious award for three consecutive years, showcasing its unwavering commitment to modern education. With groundbreaking research, cutting-edge methodologies and a transformative approach to learning, FEU Tech is not just creating graduates but shaping future Filipino trailblazers who can thrive in workplaces and create substantial impact in different industries. Real-world results WURI aims to effectively measure such impact by highlighting creative and innovative approaches universities have in their research and educational programs through six categories: Industrial Application, rather than the traditional ways of counting research papers and lecture-type teaching; Value-Creating startups and entrepreneurship, rather than a traditional focus on the number of jobs filled; Social Responsibility, Ethics and Integrity, rather than a focus on knowledge and skills just for material success; Student Mobility and Openness for exchange and collaboration between schools and across national borders, rather than an independent yet closed system; Crisis Management in the midst of climate change, Covid-19 pandemic and other global and local crises; Progress during the Fourth Industrial Revolution through digital technology, artificial intelligence, big data, cloud services, blockchain and so on. FEU Tech, which has always been on the lookout for opportunities to innovate its educational programs, was the only university in the Philippines to join the WURI Rankings back in 2020. After ranking Top 19 for Ethical Values on their first try, the institution was poised to garner more awards in succeeding years. In 2021, FEU Tech ranked Top 24 for Entrepreneurial Spirit. In 2022, they ranked Top 98 overall globally, and in 2023, ranked Top 77 overall in a very competitive pool of top-performing universities and institutions both in the Philippines and around the globe. FEU’s invaluable contribution towards the internationalization of Philippine higher education also garnered recognition from the Commission on Higher Education during the Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability Awards 2023 last 6 October. The award was received by Dr. Florante D. Poso Jr., director of Quality Assurance. Immersive FEU Tech’s commitment to revolutionizing education goes beyond rankings. Amidst the pandemic crisis, the university has unveiled its innovative Mastery-based Individualized Learning Enhancement System, which aims to create an adaptive, immersive and personalized learning experience. MILES empowers students with the flexibility to explore and master their subjects at their own pace, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving and creativity. At the heart of MILES lies a cutting-edge virtual learning environment where students can immerse themselves in interactive simulations, collaborate with peers and engage in hands-on learning experiences, transcending the limitations imposed by physical classrooms. The university’s enhanced WURI ranking is just the beginning when it comes to its pivotal role in shaping innovation ecosystems, creating significant contributions to society and becoming a recognized global leader in transformative education. The post FEU Tech named Top University for Real Impact for third consecutive year appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl education gets aid
On 7 September, the US government signed a memorandum of understanding with the Second Congressional Commission on Education at the Senate of the Philippines to enhance the Philippine government’s capacity to deliver quality education and improve learning outcomes. The agreement solidifies US-Philippines collaboration on policy research, capacity-building, and technical assistance in support of EDCOM II’s objective of assessing, evaluating, and recommending reforms to improve the Philippine education sector. USAID Mission Director Washburn signed the MOU with EDCOM II co-chairpersons Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and Pasig City Representative Roman Romulo. Senator Gatchalian serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education and Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education, while Romulo is the chairperson of the House Committee on Basic Education. “The memorandum of understanding underscores the mutual commitment of our two countries to work together to shape the future of Philippine education to make it a key driver of prosperity for all Filipinos,” said USAID Philippines Mission Director Ryan Washburn. Composed of 10 commissioners from the Senate and the House of Representatives, EDCOM II is a national commission that looks at priority areas such as early childhood care and development, basic education, higher education, technical-vocational education and training, and lifelong learning, as well as cross-cutting issues in governance and finance. “Reforming the Philippine education sector is no easy task that requires the inputs and expertise of advocates and partners. We are grateful to the USAID for steadfastly supporting education programs in the country, and we look forward to their contributions in reviewing and reforming the state of education in the country,” said EDCOM II co-chairperson Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian. “This MoU demonstrates the depth of our countries’ friendship with one another. Access to quality education will unleash the full potential of Filipinos. Thank you to the USAID for its support to enhancing our Philippine education system,” Romulo said. USAID shares the Philippines’ goal of making the country competitive in global education and labor markets. Over the past decade, the US government, through USAID, has invested nearly $200 million to strengthen the capacity of Philippine education partners to drive inclusive and sustainable growth. The post Phl education gets aid appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Filipino LGBT Europe launches European forum on LGBTQ+ rights and health
The first Filipino-European LGBTQIA+ Advocates Forum opened at the Amsterdam Mayor’s Residence in the capital city of The Netherlands on 2 August. The three-day forum, which coincided with the celebration of Amsterdam Pride Week, aimed to shed light on the fight for equal rights for the Filipino LGBTQ+ sectors in both the Philippines and the Filipino communities in Europe. The opening ceremony was graced by Alexander Scholtes, deputy mayor of Amsterdam; Katharina Kacerovsky-Strobl, organizer of Vienna Pride, EuroPride Vienna and Stonewall GmBH; and Jarie Osias; charge d’affaires of the Philippine Embassy in The Hauge. In his welcoming remarks, Chris Santa Brigida Kopp, chair of Filipino LGBT Europe, reiterated his call for worldwide solidarity in the Filipino LGBTQ+ community. He stated that those who have experienced being in places where equal rights are guaranteed must not forget that the same cannot be said for queer siblings in the Philippines. He noted that despite the distance the forum demonstrated sympathy and love for everyone in the community. [caption id="attachment_173978" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Guests at the opening of the first Filipino-European LGBTQIA+ Advocates Forum. | PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF FILIPINO LGBT EUROPE[/caption] Osias noted that in pre-Hispanic Philippine society, equality between all genders was said to be more pronounced than at the present time. He expressed hope that such becomes once again standard in the Philippines. He highlighted the steps that the Philippine government has taken toward that goal including the institutionalization of LGBTQ+ Pride Month by the Supreme Court, the rising number of local legislations that respect equality regardless of sexual orientation, identity and gender expression, and the ongoing formation of a special advisory body for LGBTQ+ issues in the Office of the President. He ended his speech by saying, “We are all human beings. We are all the same. We are equal. We should be equal in the eyes of the law.” This same sentiment was echoed by the Philippine ambassador to The Netherlands, Jose Eduardo Malaya III. He stressed that “when rights are protected, society flourishes.” The presence of guests from different parts of Europe joining hand-in-hand with the Amsterdam-based Filipino LGBT Europe was accentuated by Scholtes in his special address. He noted that the fervor of those that came was a show of the solidarity to the Filipino LGBTQIA+ community in Europe and how they are one with their queer siblings in the Philippines. He reiterated that Amsterdam Pride Week is one in spirit with such endeavor, stating that Pride is an event of celebration, protest and community building. He added that with the first Filipino-European LGBTQIA+ Advocates Forum, Amsterdam Pride Week also became a time to learn. As someone in a position of power, he stated that such an opportunity is valuable to demonstrate that things can still be better. He ended his speech by likening the Amsterdam Filipino LGBTQIA+ community to the tulip, which originated in Asia but bloomed beautifully in the Netherlands. Kacerovsky-Strobl emphasized that the battle for equality is not over yet and that Pride must continue as long as intolerance, fear, and hate exist. Evidence of the strengthening ties between the LGBTQ+ communities in Europe, Vienna will host the second Filipino-European LGBTQIA+ Advocates Forum. Kacerovksy-Strobl stressed that “inclusion is the future.” The opening ceremony of the forum ended with a show of appreciation to Filipino-Dutch couple, Godwin and Wimmo Yosalina-Bouman, who opened their doors to the Filipino LGBTQ+ community in the Netherlands and created a safe space. BAYOTA Community Center, which is now three years old, is a place to share culture, food and companionship. The post Filipino LGBT Europe launches European forum on LGBTQ+ rights and health appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Time for the Philippines to go nuclear
With the scorching heat of the sun still going on and the looming dry spell as a result of the El Niño phenomenon, more Filipinos are using electricity to beat the soaring temperature. Unfortunately, the supply of power cannot cope with the demand, so power outages have also become common. [caption id="attachment_167841" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Many Filipinos are increasingly unable to afford power costs, with the cost of electricity in the country among the highest in Southeast Asia. | Photographs Courtesy Of The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute.[/caption] Many Filipinos are also increasingly unable to afford power costs. The cost of electricity in the country is among the highest in Southeast Asia, according to a paper penned for the Ateneo Center for Economic Research and Development. In the Philippines, the kilowatt per hour is $0.16. Compare that to Thailand and Indonesia ($0.10/kWh) and Malaysia ($0.05/kWh). At $0.18/kWh, only Singapore surpasses the country’s Philippines rates. About 50 percent of the country’s power generation comes from coal, with natural gas and renewables accounting for just over 20 percent and the rest coming from oil-fired boilers. The country’s electricity consumption is expected to triple by 2040 — from the 90.2 TWh (Terawatt-hour) in 2018 — due to the rapidly growing economy. It’s time for the Philippines to transition away from its reliance on coal. The adoption of nuclear power is the fastest option and would make electricity costs more affordable, according to the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute. PNRI Director Carlo A. Arcilla said including nuclear power in the country’s energy mix would be beneficial to consumers as it would bring down expensive electricity rates and provide a stable source of power. Gayle Certeza, convenor of Alpas Pinas, a group that educates and advocates for nuclear energy, agrees. “We believe that nuclear energy will positively impact the lives of Filipinos because it will mean lower electricity rates that will better allow for more savings,” she said in a Daily Tribune feature. During the presidency of Rodrigo R. Duterte, Executive Order 164 was signed to include nuclear power in the country’s energy mix. Under the policy, the country “shall ensure the peaceful use of nuclear technology anchored on critical tenets of public safety, national security, energy self-sufficiency, and environmental sustainability.” Energy security The Department of Science and Technology supported EO 164, saying: “Nuclear power is envisioned to bring down the cost of electricity and to contribute to energy security considering the various limitations now being encountered in the other sources which includes natural gas, geothermal, hydro and coal.” The DoST is a member of the Nuclear Energy Program Interagency Committee, tasked to study the adoption of a national position on nuclear power. Nuclear power is one of two major alternatives to fossil fuels; the other is renewable energy (solar power, wind power, hydroelectric, geothermal energy and biomass energy). “Renewables and nuclear can complement each other,” said Arcilla in an interview. “Wind and solar depend on the status of the weather, and they only a 30-percent capacity factor unless you have an expensive battery.” Solar energy also requires one hectare of land to produce one megawatt. “This will become more challenging since the Philippines is an archipelagic country,” Arcilla said. Nuclear, on the other hand, “is more of a baseload energy, meaning it is more reliable due to its continuous production of energy. It could provide backup for wind and solar.” Threats and risks Groups such as the World Nuclear Association, the International Atomic Energy Agency and Environmentalists for Nuclear Energy contend that nuclear power is a sustainable energy source that reduces carbon emissions. But opponents, such as Greenpeace International and Nuclear Information and Resource Service, warn that nuclear power poses many threats to people and the environment, including the problems of processing, transport and storage of radioactive nuclear waste, the risk of nuclear weapons proliferation and terrorism, as well as health risks and environmental damage from uranium mining. Because of these risks, Dr. Art Romero, a geoscientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Berkeley, California, emphasizes the need to conduct due diligence, technical hazard studies and engineering and safety reviews. If the Philippines went nuclear, where would it put nuclear waste? “It is very challenging to manage nuclear waste as it will last up to 10,000 years,” acknowledged Arcilla. “We need to isolate them from the human environment.” Arcilla suggests deep borehole disposal. “In the Philippines, we have the capability to drill up to three kilometers. So what we can do is to go to an isolated island, drill up to one kilometer, then we plug in bentonite.” It’s not the first time the Philippines will go nuclear. The Bataan Nuclear Power Plant was built by Westinghouse during the time of Ferdinand Marcos at a cost of $2.2 billion, but it was mothballed in 1986 due to safety concerns and allegations of corruption, even before it could begin operations. During the administration of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, proponents wanted the BNPP rehabilitated. But the project was projected to cost a hefty $1 billion. In 2019, a public perception survey indicated that 79 percent of Filipinos supported the rehabilitation of the shelved BNPP. In addition, 65 percent approved the building of new nuclear power plants. Nuclear power is the second largest source of low-carbon electricity today. With almost 500 operating reactors globally, it provides 10 percent of global electricity supply. It’s time for a rapidly developing country like the Philippines to take a second look at this critical power supply option. The post Time for the Philippines to go nuclear appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go aids indigent students in Laak, Davao de Oro
Recognizing the vital role education plays in the country's development, Senator Bong Go has committed himself to helping enhance the education system in the country through various proposed legislation. In a video message during his team’s relief activity for struggling students on Monday, 26 June, Go maintained that he advocates for the passage of Senate Bill No. 1864, also known as the Act on Suspending Student Loan Payments During Disasters and Emergencies, which seeks to offer assistance to students who have borrowed loans but face difficulties in repaying them as a result of calamities and other unforeseen crises. Meanwhile, SBN 1359, known as the Act Prohibiting the "No Permit, No Exam" Policy, which Senator Go co-authored and co-sponsored, was passed on its third and final reading in March. The bill aims to penalize the implementation of a policy that restricts students from taking exams or similar educational assessments based on unpaid tuition or other school fees. Go also continues to champion SBN 1360, which aims to broaden the scope of the tertiary education subsidy by making amendments to Republic Act No. 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. The proposed legislation strives to offer increased assistance to students who face challenges in financing their tuition and other school fees, including those who are currently not eligible for subsidies provided by the existing law. “Education serves as the foundation for progress and the key to unlocking a brighter future for our nation. It is through education that we can empower our youth, equip them with knowledge and skills, and shape them into responsible and productive citizens,” underscored Go. “Investing in education is an investment in our country's future. When we prioritize education, we invest in the development of human capital, fostering a highly skilled workforce that can drive economic growth and prosperity,” he stressed further. The relief activity was held at the municipal hall, where Go’s team provided relief items, such as shirts, vitamins, snacks, and masks to 700 disadvantaged students. His team also gave mobile phones, shoes, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. “Mayroon ding mga dala na bola ang aking opisina kasi ang advocacy ko po ay sports. Gusto ko po ipagpatuloy po ang kampanya ni (dating) pangulong Duterte na labanan ang kriminalidad at iligal na droga sa pamamaraan na engganyuhin po ang mga kabataan na maglaro na lang ng basketball o anumang larangan ng pampalakasan,” encouraged Go who chairs the Senate Committee on Sports. “Diba mas mabuti na yung busy yung kabataan sa basketball o volleyball o sa ibang palakasan kesa naman maligaw sila sa ibang landas? Engganyuhin po natin silang mag-basketball at mag-volleyball. Get into sports and stay away from drugs,” he urged. Meanwhile, Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, also reminded the youth to prioritize their health and even encouraged them to seek the services of the Malasakit Center located at Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital branches in Laak, Montevista, Maragusan, and Pantukan; and the Davao Regional Medical Center in nearby Tagum City. A brainchild of Go, the Malasakit Centers program provides one-stop shops where concerned agencies, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, are brought under one roof to ensure that medical assistance programs are more conveniently within the reach of particularly poor and indigent Filipinos. 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, 158 operational centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the DOH. Go, who is also Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported various infrastructure initiatives in Davao de Oro. He was instrumental in the construction of a multipurpose building in Compostela; the construction of the Monkayo, Compostela Valley - Veruela Road; and the improvement of the public market in Monkayo. Other major initiatives he supported include the construction of the Nabunturan – Maco and Nabunturan - Laak roads; the installation of street lights in Nabunturan; rehabilitation of the local roads and bridges in New Bataan; and the concreting of the local access road in Pantukan The post Bong Go aids indigent students in Laak, Davao de Oro appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Committed to equity, sustainability, opportunity
As the Philippines looks forward to hosting the ABAC 3 (Asean Business Advisory Council) meeting in Cebu, the Aboitiz group acts as a key driver in advancing the shared goals of equity, sustainability and opportunity. The invaluable expertise of Aboitiz president and CEO and ABAC PH member Sabin Aboitiz contribute significantly to the Aboitiz Group’s endeavors and enhance the alignment between ABAC's vision and strategies. Sabin Aboitiz demonstrates the Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to sustainability. The focus on exploring the viability of nuclear energy via small modular reactors highlights the Group's interest in advancing clean and efficient energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change. Additionally, the integration of climate risk scenarios underscores the Group's proactive approach to understanding and addressing the potential risks and challenges posed by climate change. "At Aboitiz, we believe that businesses have a crucial role to play in promoting equity, sustainability and opportunity," Sabin Aboitiz said. "Through our collective efforts, we are committed to making a positive impact on society and fostering a better future for all." Apart from being the pioneer of renewable energy in the Philippines with 1249.17MW of total net sellable renewable energy capacity, AboitizPower, the energy arm of the Aboitiz Group, has shown commitment in promoting equity and inclusion within the company. Testament to that is the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging program, which aims to push the envelope further in creating a safe and welcoming workplace for all. The DEIB program includes the establishment of resource networks for LGBT+, women at work, and “special life” team members, which include single parents and differently-abled workers. [caption id="attachment_149059" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Aboitiz Group drives Philippine development through inclusive growth. In Cebu City, reliable power empowers the town, improving lives and supporting economic growth and trade among APEC economies. Union Bank of the Philippines, led by Aboitiz, promotes financial inclusion through digital banking nationwide.[/caption] Group wide, Aboitiz also implements several initiatives that further celebrate diversity and maintain an inclusive workplace. Among these are information sessions and people stories for Women’s Month, Pride Month and Mental Health Month. The company also boasts a balanced representation of male and female team members, fostering an environment that values gender equality and provides equal opportunities for all. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, AboitizPower and Aboitiz InfraCapital are proud member companies of the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, a nonprofit organization advocating workplace gender equality. Aboitiz understands that the overall success of the company also depends on the individual success of the team members. And by creating a culture where everyone feels valued, respected and included, the Aboitiz group makes sure that no one is left behind in the journey toward progress. The Aboitiz-led UnionBank of the Philippines plays an important role in the group’s digitalization path, driven by its dedication to “Tech-Up Pilipinas” and fostering widespread economic growth. Environmental stewardship also lies at the core of Aboitiz’s efforts, as the company actively pursues environmentally responsible practices and solutions that meet the sustainable development goals set by the United Nations. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, the holding company of the Aboitiz Group, has placed sustainability at the forefront of its business strategy. The Aboitiz Cleanergy Park, located at the tip coast of Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City, is a huge part of Aboitiz's sustainability efforts. The eight-hectare biodiversity park serves as a haven for migratory and local birds, various mangrove species, a pawikan rescue center facility and a nesting ground for critically endangered sea turtles. By partnering with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Aboitiz continues to live out its sustainability efforts by also spearheading the protection and rehabilitation of Boracay Wetland No.4. As a linear urban park, the Boracay Wetland will offer a range of recreational activities that incorporate eco-friendly tourism designs, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Apart from biodiversity conservation, Aboitiz InfraCapital, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, advocates better water resource management via corporations like Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc. and LIMA Water Corporation. Apo Agua is building one of the Philippines’ largest private bulk water supply facilities in Davao City, which harnesses sustainable water sources and provides reliable water supply to the growing population of Davao City. The project not only ensures access to clean water but also supports the local economy and promotes environmental stewardship. The post Committed to equity, sustainability, opportunity appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BBM presses LGBTQ+ acceptance
All members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transexual, queer and other genders (LGBTQ+) group should be protected from discrimination, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has said. The Chief Executive expressed support for the LGBT+ community in the Philippines as the sector celebrates “Pride Month.” “In the new Philippines, the Filipino is free, and in the new Philippines, the Filipino has an open mind and is free from discrimination or ridicule. That is the message we will continue to strengthen,” the President said. “Their invaluable contributions in various fields and their perseverance in competing with anyone, the responsible and tireless advocates for their families and homes,” he added. Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of government and society providing support to the LGBTQ+ community, acknowledging their valuable contributions to the nation-building process. “It is important to continue supporting, respecting, and recognizing the significant role they play in our society,” he said. “Let us applaud and take pride in them for exemplifying the skill and excellence of our Filipino people,” he added. “Pride Month” is globally observed every June to commemorate a series of gay liberation protests that took place in the United States in 1969. Although Marcos Jr. expresses support for the LGBTQ+ community, various pro-LGBT+ laws, including the SOGIE bill, are still pending approval in Congress. The post BBM presses LGBTQ+ acceptance appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go celebrates post-birthday with indigents from Marikina and Rizal
A day after his birthday, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally led a distribution activity for impoverished residents from Marikina City and from San Mateo and Rodriguez, Rizal on Thursday, 15 June. “Kahapon ay aking kaarawan. At katulad ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte, walang selebrasyon, walang birthday party, patuloy lang ang pagseserbisyo. Kung kaya pati ngayong araw ay pinili kong mabisita at personal na maghatid ng tulong sa mga kababayan nating mahihirap sa Brgy. Payatas at Commonwealth sa Quezon City. Nagpaabot din tayo ng tulong sa mga mahihirap mula sa Marikina City, at San Mateo at Montalban sa Rizal sa araw ding ito,” he said. Go and his team conducted the relief operation at Marikina City Sports Complex for a total of 3,000 residents. To ensure a more organized distribution, the beneficiaries were split into three groups. Residents from Marikina City and Rodriguez, Rizal were brought to the basketball and tennis courts, respectively, while those from San Mateo gathered in another covered area in the complex. All beneficiaries received grocery packs, masks, snacks, and vitamins from Senator Go’s office while the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended them financial assistance. Additionally, the senator's team provided bicycles, shoes, mobile phones, watches, shirts, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select individuals. In his speech, Go commended the exemplary dedication and tireless efforts of the local officials in Marikina City and in San Mateo and Rodriguez, Rizal. The senator highlighted their unwavering commitment to promoting the welfare and well-being of their constituents and acknowledged their invaluable contributions in fostering progress and development in their respective areas. “Parati namin naririnig na pinapasalamatan kami sa mga proyekto, sa mga tulong. Sa totoo lang po, huwag kayong magpasalamat sa amin. Ako po ay isang probinsiyano lamang (katulad ni) dating pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte na binigyan niyo ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo sa inyo, kaya ako po ang dapat magpasalamat. Maraming-maraming salamat po,” Go expressed. “Hindi ko po sasayangin yung pagkakataon na ibinigay niyo sa amin. Magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino. Sanay po ako sa trabaho. Umaga pa lang, tanghali, hapunan, kahit sa panaginip ay nagtatrabaho po ako dahil yan na ang nakagawian ko noon pa — ang pagtatrabaho at pagseserbisyo,” he underscored. During the event, Go was joined by officials from Marikina City, including Congresswoman Maan Teodoro and Mayor Marcy Teodoro; as well as the local officials from both towns in Rizal, such as Rodriguez Mayor Ronnie Evangelista and San Mateo Mayor Bartolome “Omie” Rivera Jr., among others. Referring to Go, Congresswoman Teodoro cited in a short speech, “Napakaswerte natin ngayong araw na ito dahil kasama natin ang isa sa mga pinakamagagaling na senador sa Pilipinas. Totoo na ang bisyo niya ay magserbisyo dahil kahit birthday niya, actually kahapon ang birthday ni senator, (pero) nagtatrabaho pa rin po siya." “Ang serbisyo ni Senator Bong Go ay lagpas talaga. Hindi na talaga mabilang sa dami ng ginagawa niya. At ngayong araw na ito, para kay Senator Bong Go, kayo ang kaniyang (itinuturing na) birthday gift,” she added. Continuing his message, Go, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, encouraged all Filipinos to avail themselves of the medical assistance provided by the 158 Malasakit Centers established across the country. Recognizing the importance of accessible healthcare for every Filipino, particularly poor and indigent patients, Go tirelessly advocates for more Malasakit Centers to ensure that no one is left behind in times of medical emergencies, saying, “Alam n’yo ang Malasakit Center po, batas na ‘yan na isinulong ko noon, pinirmahan ni dating pangulong Duterte. It’s a one-stop shop, nasa loob na ho ng ospital (ang mga ahensyang may medical assistance programs). Hanapin n’yo ‘yung karatulang Malasakit Center.” “At kung kailangan n’yo po ng tulong mula sa opisina ko sa pagpapaopera ninyo, sabihan n’yo lang po ang aking opisina, tutulong po ako sa abot ng aking makakaya pati pamasahe n’yo po, tutulungan ho namin,” he continued. In Marikina City, residents may seek assistance from the Malasakit Center at Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center. Meanwhile, Rizal province has four Malasakit Centers at Casimiro A. Ynares Sr. Memorial Hospital in Rodriguez, Margarito A. Duavit Memorial Hospital in Binangonan; Antipolo City Hospital System Annex IV (Mambugan); and Bagong Cainta Municipal Hospital in Cainta. Go has also been instrumental in promoting the establishment of Super Health Centers to ensure that more Filipinos have access to basic healthcare services. There will be four Super Health Centers in the city of Marikina while there will be one each in Rodriguez and San Mateo. Said centers will offer database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other services that will be available in Super Health Centers are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Still in line with his advocacy to bolster the health sector, Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the acquisition of medical equipment for Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center in Marikina City. He also supported the rehabilitation of a multipurpose building in the city. Earlier that day, Go was in Quezon City where he joined Councilor Mikey Belmonte and Mayor Joy Belmonte in the inauguration of two multi-purpose buildings which he supported for funding before as Vice-Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance. He also spearheaded another relief operation for a thousand disadvantaged residents in Quezon City. The post Bong Go celebrates post-birthday with indigents from Marikina and Rizal appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go advocates for advancement of nursing profession in proposed bill
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go assured that he remains at the forefront of advocating for the welfare of Filipino nurses. In a bid to enhance the nursing profession and address the growing healthcare needs of Filipinos, Go continues to push for the enactment of the Advanced Nursing Education bill. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go has consistently expressed his admiration for nurses and the indispensable role they play in delivering healthcare services, especially during these challenging times. It is for this reason that he stressed the importance of investing in the nursing profession in building a more robust and sustainable healthcare system. In an ambush interview after he personally graced the launch of the 158th Malasakit Center in Guagua, Pampanga on Friday, June 9, Go highlighted that his proposed Senate Bill No. 191 aims to bolster the educational opportunities available to nurses, ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare sector. Go maintained the importance of equipping nurses with the necessary interventions to meet the evolving healthcare challenges. His proposed "Advanced Nursing Education Act of 2022" seeks to protect and improve the nursing profession by instituting measures that will result in relevant nursing education for better career prospects and dignified work conditions for nurses. On the other hand, Go also emphasized the importance of striking a balance between providing proper compensation for Filipino nurses and ensuring that hospitals have the necessary resources to maintain their operations effectively. “Napansin ko na napakababa talaga ng sweldo ng mga nurses sa private hospitals. Eh alam mo naman kapag sa private hospitals, hindi na usually nagrereklamo ang mga nagbabayad na mga pasyente kahit napakalaki po ng kanilang hospital billing dahil mayayaman o may kaya sila, halos hindi na po magrereklamo. Pero napakaliit pa rin po ng sweldo ng mga nurses doon. Nakakalungkot dahil nadi-discourage silang magtrabaho dito sa atin. Nangingibang bansa sila dahil maliit talaga ang sweldo,” Go cited. Go acknowledged that fair and competitive salaries are crucial to attracting and retaining talented nurses in the country. However, he also understands that hospitals, especially those in underserved areas, often face financial constraints that can hinder their ability to offer competitive compensation packages. “Gusto ko naman pong balansehin. Ayaw naman nating magsara ang mga private hospitals dahil kailangan din nila sa operation nila. Maaaring doon din nila kinukuha ang kanilang mga operational expenses. So balansehin natin,” Go urged. “Sana naman sa mga private hospitals, kung maaari bawas-bawasan n’yo ng kaunti ang kita ninyo. Ibigay n’yo naman sa mga nurses para makatulong naman sa kanila at ‘wag na silang mangibang bansa. Hindi ko masisisi ang mga nurses natin sa mga private hospitals, nangingibang bansa dahil sobrang laki ng sweldo sa ibang bansa,” he expressed. The lawmaker earlier authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 11466 in 2019, which gives nurses and other civilian government employees their fifth round of salary increases broken down in tranches. In the same year, Senator Go also made sure that sufficient funding was allocated for the implementation of the 2019 Supreme Court decision that upheld Section 32 of the Philippine Nursing Act of 2002, which establishes the minimum salary grade of the Nurse I position at SG-15. ### The post Bong Go advocates for advancement of nursing profession in proposed bill appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UnionBank recognized for IP Awareness and Protection
At the culminating activity of National Intellectual Property Month, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines recognized the UnionBank of the Philippines for its support for intellectual property awareness and protection. The 2023 Gawad Yamang Isip Awards and Fashion Night, themed “Women and IP: Accelerating Innovation and Creativity,” was held at The Manila Hotel last 26 April 2023. It highlighted the IP protection of Filipino textiles and fabrics through a fashion showcase. UnionBank was presented with a plaque of recognition for its partnership with (IPOPHL) in championing the protection of digital innovation technology intellectual properties. UnionBank’s senior vice president and head of Blockchain and API Business Group, Metaverse Center of Excellence and Government Projects, Catherine Anne Bautista-Casas, accepted the citation for the bank. “One thing we always talk about at the UnionBank Innovation Camp is that, for us, IP patents aren’t just legalities or papers on the wall… it represents the creative ideas of our employees and the values that we had established as a bank when we decided not just to digitize, but innovate,” Casas said. “When we innovate, we don’t just create something for our customers. We promote our society’s development, give people opportunities to create new things, and inspire other companies to do the same.” “As a digital innovator, IP protection is important to us, naturally, because of the numerous patents we file for our solutions and products. But more than that, IP protection safeguards employees’ ideas, who work hard to develop solutions that greatly benefit our customers,” Casas shared. “Whether in technology, science, engineering, or the arts…IP protection gives creators the credit they deserve for their societal contributions.” The 2023 Gawad Yamang Isip Awards and Fashion Night, attended by other distinguished guests, including Sen. Maria Imelda Josefa Remedios “Imee” Romualdez Marcos and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual, was meant to underscore the importance of IP protection in the creative industry and emphasize the significance of IP about the country’s social, cultural, economic and technological development. UnionBank is known for its digital banking innovations. It was the first to introduce numerous industry solutions like selfie banking, an open-source application programming interface platform, and the country’s first-ever fully digital and paperless banking branch, The Ark. UnionBank has consistently been introducing innovative solutions that continue redefining how Filipinos view banking. With the bank’s expertise in a wide range of emerging technologies, including data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning, blockchain, cloud computing, and extended reality, UnionBank is on the way to building a digital banking dynasty as it has collected numerous awards including a 6-time Best Digital Bank recognition from The Asset among others. The post UnionBank recognized for IP Awareness and Protection appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAGCOR cancels accreditation of offshore gaming services provider
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation has cancelled the accreditation of offshore gaming customer relations service provider CGC Technologies Inc. The cancellation of CGC’s accreditation came barely a week after PAGCOR issued a stern warning to its offshore gaming licensees and its accredited service providers who are involved in illegal activities. Investigations confirm that CGC, an accredited service provider operating under offshore gaming licensee Oriental Game Limited, was involved in criminal activities, thus warranting the cancellation of its accreditation. It was also found that CGC violated some of the conditions attached to its accreditation. Alongside the cancellation order is the “forfeiture of CGC’s Performance Bond effective immediately.” Likewise, PAGCOR imposed a fine of $350,000 to its offshore gaming licensee Oriental Game Limited “for its failure to ensure the legitimate conduct of CGC’s business.” PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco again reminded all offshore gaming licensees and service providers to abide by the Philippine laws to avoid severe consequences. He also noted that those with cancelled accreditations and licenses must immediately cease their operations. “Continued operations despite the cancellation of their accreditation or licenses shall be considered illegal. Immediate action will be taken against those who are engaging in such.” “PAGCOR strongly advocates responsible gaming to curb all forms of social ills being linked to gaming. This is the reason why we continue to forge close partnership with other government agencies. Through proper regulation and cooperation with our law enforcement agencies, we will continue to ensure that revenues from regulated gaming will be used for more worthy causes, especially nation-building,” Tengco added. Prior to the cancellation of its accreditation, CGC was issued a suspension order after being subjected to an inter-agency search operation on 4 May 2023. The company was embroiled in various allegations including credit card fraud, serious illegal detention, and human trafficking activities. During the inter-agency special operation, CGC was found to be operating six buildings inside the Sun Valley Business Hub in Mabalacat, Pampanga, but only two were accredited by PAGCOR. Personnel working in the hub are of mixed nationalities including Indonesians, Vietnamese, Nepalese, Bhutanese and Chinese. The post PAGCOR cancels accreditation of offshore gaming services provider appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Built heritage emergency’: Advocates lament fire at Manila Central Post Office
Heritage advocates are in solidarity in mourning the destruction by fire of the nearly century-old Manila Central Post Office building at the Liwasang Bonifacio, Manila early Monday......»»
Kelvin Lee gets Thought Leadership Gold Awards for Fintech initiatives
The work of the Securities and Exchange Commission, led by Commissioner Kelvin Lester Lee, to grow Financial Technology (Fintech) in the Philippines has brought pride to the Philippines after Atty Lee was recognized as the top winner in the category of "Thought Leader of the Year" by the Asia Pacific Stevies Award. In winning the Gold Prize, Commissioner Lee's exceptional contributions to the field of Fintech have garnered recognition from the international community and cemented his position as a leading authority in the Asia-Pacific region, triumphing over other winners from the Philippines, Australia, Indonesia, and India. Apart from the Gold Prize, Commissioner Lee also won the coveted Grand Stevie Award for the Philippines, a recognition presented to the highest-scoring nomination from each of the four nations that submitted the most nominations to the competition after getting an impressive score of 8.83/10 from international jurors. As an incumbent Commissioner of the SEC, Lee has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives within Fintech. His noteworthy accomplishments include his involvement in the pioneer cohort of the University of Cambridge's Fintech and Regulatory Innovation Programme, significantly influencing his drive for a meticulous and balanced policy approach to Fintech regulation. In recognition of his vision and advocacy, Commissioner Lee played a pivotal role in establishing the SEC's PhiliFintech Innovation Office (PhiliFINNO) in 2021. Working under guidance, this office focuses on fintech regulation and policy recommendations, positioning the Philippines as a frontrunner in embracing technological advancements while prioritizing investor protection. Lee has also crafted the SEC's "delicate balancing act" policy to maintain a healthy marriage between encouraging innovation and ensuring investor safety. This policy enables the SEC to foster an environment conducive to Fintech growth while upholding its responsibility as a financial regulator to safeguard the interests of investors. The Commissioner's influence extends beyond national boundaries, as he is frequently invited to speak at Senate hearings, sit on panels, and deliver keynote speeches on Fintech policy. His expertise and insights on Fintech, Fintech policy, and Fintech regulation are sought after both in the Philippines and internationally. Noteworthy platforms where he has shared his knowledge include events organized by the University of Cambridge, the Asian Institute of Management, the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Inc., the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Cambodia, the Fintech Alliance, and the World Economic Forum, among others. Lee's dedication to advancing Fintech has taken him to Hong Kong, Singapore, London, and Cambridge, where he has shared his expertise and contributed to shaping the global Fintech landscape. In December 2022, the SEC official's Fintech policy work and thought leadership led to him being honored as one of the Philippine Blockchain Champions by the Blockchain Council of the Philippines. This recognition acknowledges his invaluable contributions in driving the adoption of blockchain and Web3 technologies in the Philippines, positioning the country as a prominent blockchain hub in Asia. In January 2023, Lee also solidified a partnership with the University of the Philippines Law Center through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), paving the way for joint research and capacity-building projects focused on digital assets, blockchain, non-fungible tokens, and decentralized finance. As a regulator, Commissioner Lee remains guided by the SEC's overarching approach to Fintech, striking a delicate balance between regulatory objectives, such as investor protection, and fostering an environment that embraces the innovative potential of Fintech. His leadership has adopted enabling policies encouraging innovation while proactively mitigating excessive risk buildup, ensuring market integrity and investor safeguarding. Lee's pursuit of innovation within the Fintech sector has solidified his position as a trusted and influential figure. According to the Stevies jurors, Commissioner Lee's accomplishments are a testament to his dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to advancing Fintech and promoting a secure and investor-friendly environment. The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards received over 800 nominations this year, reflecting the remarkable innovative achievements across the 29-nation region. The winners will be celebrated during a virtual ceremony on June 27, providing an opportunity to recognize and honor the outstanding individuals and organizations shaping the business landscape in the Asia-Pacific region. The post Kelvin Lee gets Thought Leadership Gold Awards for Fintech initiatives appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UBP’s Innovation Campus draws students, specialists
Union Bank of the Philippines has drawn over 200 students and 35 agencies from the government and universities to its Innovation Campus since it started construction two years ago to accelerate the country’s digital transformation. “They include staff of various kinds like those in human resources, information technology and administrative divisions. People enroll here, create projects to demonstrate the uses of what they learned and return to their organizations to share new knowledge,” Roger Collantes, president of Asian Institute of Digital Transformation, told the Daily Tribune last Thursday. The Innovation Campus and the bank collaborate to teach data science, artificial intelligence or AI and blockchain, among others, which are used to automate services, customize products and prevent cybercrimes. More students Collantes expects more students to avail of their courses which can be completed in two days to eight weeks. “We feel we’re just on the surface. Now we are reaching out to local government units. The Asian Development Bank also approached us.” Collantes said the Philippines has to catch up in upskilling its labor force as the world is quickly shifting to digital, driven by the widening use of AI. The World Economic Forum says AI can increase employees’ productivity by 40 percent, while AI-powered ChatGPT can automate 62 percent of language-related tasks. “Most universities do not teach blockchain, AI, or data science because these are emerging technologies and they also lack teachers. We hire employees so we know there’s a gap,” Collantes explained. Collantes said the innovation campus has yet to reach out to small business owners to also help digitalize their operations as its courses focus on building the right foundation first. Building the ecosystem “When you say digital transformation, it means you have to build the ecosystem first, to clean up digital inefficiencies of your organization before spreading to individuals. The goal is to digitize the workplace so your customers can have the same experience.” Collantes said the graduates of the innovation campus can help improve the Philippine banking industry which consists of UnionDigital Bank of UnionBank and five other digital banks. He shared UnionBank will enable them to contribute to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’s enterprise architecture project aimed at improving business strategies. UnionBank is a member of the Banking Industry Architecture Network, a non-profit group that adopts the world’s best business strategies amid the rapid growth in consumer technologies. The post UBP’s Innovation Campus draws students, specialists appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Women in Blockchain’ empowers women in tech
Binance recently held a "Women in Blockchain" event in Manila, in collaboration with blockchain play-to-earn games Yield Guild Games, to celebrate gender equality and empower more women to pursue careers in Web3. Female representatives in the Philippines' Web3 space, such as Prayer Trairatvorakul, Marketing director, APAC at Binance, and Mary Rose E. Magsaysay, assistant secretary of Cybercrime Investigation Coordinating Center, convened with other female community members at this event to share insights, network and discuss the opportunities that Web3 offers women globally. As an industry leader, Binance aims to increase the freedom of money globally. A crucial part of this is bringing more diversity to the crypto ecosystem to ensure blockchain lives up to its full potential. Binance seeks to empower all crypto-curious women to become crypto-fluent through various ongoing initiatives and events. This "Women in Blockchain" event is the first in the Philippines. At the event, Kenneth Stern, general manager of Binance in the Philippines, emphasized the importance of supporting the increasing number of women entering the Web3 space. He added, "As a company, representing women is our priority, and we have a female workforce higher than the industry average." Prayer Trairatvorakul, Binance's Marketing Director, APAC, delivered an insightful keynote at the event and touched on how more women can enter the Web3 industry if companies encourage inclusivity, leverage existing networks to open doors and create products specifically for women. She revealed how shaping careers without gender preconceptions has succeeded for Binance, "A lot of people that I work with started as interns and are now leading global teams. An advantage of working in the Web 3 sector is that there is lower bureaucracy, which allows people, regardless of gender, to progress in their career." Creating their place Other female speakers at the "Women in Blockchain" event also shared their experience working in Web3 and how they have been building their careers in this male-dominated space. Mary Rose E. Magsaysay, CICC assistant secretary, highlighted the effectiveness of women in leadership roles: "When we talk about the government, some of the best managers are women since about 70 percent of managerial jobs are handled by women." Myrtle Anne Ramos, serial entrepreneur and angel investor, encouraged women to find other women in the tech space and collaborate with them to make a difference. She said people should "create the world you want to see. What we need to do is build that inclusive world that we're creating. Make a safe space for everyone and look for mentors." Kimberly Rocha-Delgado, director of Galeria Paloma, advised women to seek out companies that value their strengths and make them allies in making space for others to shine. "By raising awareness about these issues, we can work towards greater representation and equality," she said. Een Mercado, gaming content creator, and YGG ambassador, advised women to carve out their own space and pursue their paths in the highly competitive gaming industry. "While it may be difficult to create content that hasn't been done before, it's important to keep trying and find a unique way to stand out. Ultimately, success in the gaming world comes from having fun, enjoying the competition, and being persistent in pursuing one's own goals," Mercado said. As part of Binance's commitment to increasing female representation in Web3 and reducing the gender gap, the exchange has created its first formal internship and graduate programs, offering more access to crypto careers for diverse talent, including women. Binance also provides guidance and career advice to women through Binance Academy's educational courses, female mentorship programs, and talent workshops to teach more women how to break into a career in Web3. The post ‘Women in Blockchain’ empowers women in tech appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»