39 Bicol municipalities to implement KALAHI-CIDSS under additional financial modality
39 Bicol municipalities to implement KALAHI-CIDSS under additional financial modality.....»»
Additional Incentives for Senior Citizens Pushed in Congress
Congressman Leo Rodriguez is among the proponents of House Bill No. 7535 and Senate Bill No. 2028, aiming to amend certain provisions of Republic Act No. 10868, known as the “Centenarians Act of 2016.” The proposal seeks to provide a cash incentive of P10,000 to senior citizens aged 80, 85, 90, and 95. If passed […] The post Additional Incentives for Senior Citizens Pushed in Congress appeared first on Bicol Peryodiko......»»
Typhoon Jenny maintains strength over Phl Sea
Typhoon Jenny maintains strength as it moves north-northwestward over the Philippine Sea, the state weather bureau said Tuesday. In its latest weather bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, said Typhoon Jenny, as it continues to enhance Southwest Monsoon or habagat, will bring significant rains over the western portions of Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, and Visayas in the next three days. PAGASA said the enhancement of the Southwest Monsoon by Jenny will bring gusty conditions for the next 3 days over the following areas not under any Wind Signal, especially in coastal and upland/mountainous areas exposed to winds including Bataan, the southern portion of Aurora, Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Romblon, and most of Bicol Region. Gale Warning is hoisted in the coastal waters along the seaboards of Northern Luzon. The typhoon will also bring moderate to rough seas (1.5 to 3.5 m) over the coastal waters of northern Aurora. PAGASA advised mariners of motor bancas and similarly-sized vessels to take precautionary measures while venturing out to sea. If possible, navigating in these conditions, especially if inexperienced or operating ill-equipped vessels, shall be avoided. Typhoon Jenny is forecast to move northwestward or west-northwestward until tomorrow before turning generally westward thereafter. On the track forecast, Jenny will make landfall over the southern portion of Taiwan between late Wednesday evening, or Thursday morning, then exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility between Thursday morning and afternoon. When outside the PAR region, Jenny will continue moving westward slowly over the Taiwan Strait towards the coastal waters of southern China. PAGASA said the weakening trend continues due to the increasing dry air entrainment and vertical wind shear. “Land interaction during its passage over the rugged terrain of southern Taiwan will further weaken the tropical cyclone. Once over the Taiwan Strait, additional cool dry air from the north will entrain into JENNY, resulting in further weakening,” it added. Typhoon Jenny was last tracked over the 325 km East Northeast of Basco, Batanes as it moves North Northwestward at 10 kilometers per hour. It packs maximum sustained winds of 155 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 190 kph. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal PAGASA said the Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 is hoisted in Batanes with winds of greater than 62 kph and up to 88 kph may be expected in at least 24 hours. TCWS No. 1 is raised over the Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, the northern and eastern portions of Isabela (Maconacon, Divilacan, Palanan, Santa Maria, San Pablo, Tumauini, Cabagan, Ilagan City, San Mariano, Santo Tomas, Dinapigue, Benito Soliven, Naguilian, Gamu, Quirino, Delfin Albano, Quezon, Mallig), Apayao, the northeastern portion of Abra (Tineg, Lacub, Malibcong), the northern portion of Kalinga (Balbalan, Pinukpuk, Rizal, City of Tabuk), and Ilocos Norte. Winds of 39-61 kph may be expected in the above-mentioned areas for at least 36 hours or intermittent rains may be expected within 36 hours. At least seven towns in Pangasinan have suspended classes due to the inclement weather brought by Jenny while monsoon rains continue to dump in the province. Classes in all levels were suspended in the towns of San Manuel, Pozorrubio, and San Jacinto, while classes from pre-school to high school were canceled in the towns of Asingan, Mangaldan, and San Fabian. Only classes from pre-school to elementary were suspended in the town of Manaoag. The post Typhoon Jenny maintains strength over Phl Sea appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BSKE 2023 still a go, says PNP
The Philippine National Police on Monday stressed that it is not seeing any postponement of the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections scheduled on 30 October amid the reported 2,594 areas of concern. PNP chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. said that the PNP has recorded 246 “areas of grave concern” or under the red category while 1,248 villages are under the orange category and 1,100 are under the yellow category. “So far, we are not seeing any areas that may postpone the polls. All areas will be simultaneously doing or conducting the BSKE as scheduled. There are some areas that we think that needs additional troops like the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” Acorda said. “We have to send additional forces there and our deputy chief for operations are also preparing in coordination with the other agencies. If some areas will be challenging, we will render the appropriate measures,” he added. Areas listed under the red category would be under the Commission on Elections’ control and the poll body has the authority to augment security forces in the said areas. “With regards to the preparations for the barangay elections to our assessment and after the presentation of all the regional directors and after their meeting with the different Regional Joint Security Control Center, provincial JSCCs and of course on the national level, it’s a go for all of us,” said Acorda. The PNP chief revealed that the 246 “areas of grave concern” for the BSKE are mostly from Bicol, Eastern visayas and BARMM. “In BARMM alone we have 151, in Region 8 we have 60 and in Region 5 we have 21 this list is fluid, it may change anytime depending on the political climate in the area and these are being constantly monitored through our coordination with the Comelec, Philippine Coast Guard and the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” said Acorda. He also said that the PNP keeping a close watch on 38 potential PAGs and four active PAGs ahead of the BSKE this year. The election period for the BSKE started on 28 August and will end on 29 November 2023. During this period, the Comelec mandates the suspension of activities involving the carrying of firearms or other deadly weapons and the employment of security personnel or bodyguards by incumbent public officials, whether elected or appointed, as well as private individuals. The post BSKE 2023 still a go, says PNP appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl disaster preparedness gets P450-M assistance
The United States government is providing more than P450 million ($8 million) in additional funding to strengthen disaster preparedness and response in vulnerable communities in the Philippines. The new funding will primarily enhance typhoon preparedness and develop resilient livelihood strategies in the regions of Bicol, Caraga and Eastern Visayas. It will be facilitated through the US Agency for International Development, or USAID. Likewise, it will also fund partnerships with the private sector to help ensure the continuity of businesses and other critical services, such as energy and water, after disasters. The USAID assistance will also go to training personnel of the Office of Civil Defense, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and other relevant government agencies in setting up post-disaster logistics, emergency shelters and emergency telecommunications. Additionally, USAID said it will also work with local government units in Eastern Samar and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to set up referral systems for children’s welfare and protection during disasters. “Strong typhoons came earlier than expected this year, and we’re reminded of how vulnerable many Philippine communities are to the impacts of natural disasters,” said USAID Philippines Mission Director Ryan Washburn. “We are proud of our partnership with the Philippine government to help the Filipino people prepare for and respond to disasters,” he added. Since 2010, USAID has provided approximately P17 billion ($372 million) in disaster relief and recovery aid and boosted the disaster risk reduction capacity of over 100 cities and municipalities in the Philippines. The post Phl disaster preparedness gets P450-M assistance appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
US provides P450-M to boost disaster preparedness of vulnerable communities
The United States government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), is providing more than P450 million ($8 million) in additional funding to strengthen disaster preparedness and response in vulnerable communities in the Philippines. The new funding will primarily enhance typhoon preparedness and develop resilient livelihood strategies in the regions of Bicol, CARAGA, and Eastern Visayas. It will also fund partnerships with the private sector to help ensure the continuity of businesses and other critical services, such as energy and water, after disasters. Additionally, USAID’s assistance will train personnel from the Office of Civil Defense, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and other relevant government agencies in setting up post-disaster logistics, emergency shelters, and emergency telecommunications. USAID will also work with local government units in Eastern Samar and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to set up referral systems for children’s welfare and protection during disasters. “Strong typhoons came earlier than expected this year, and we’re reminded of how vulnerable many Philippine communities are to the impacts of natural disasters,” said USAID Philippines Mission Director Ryan Washburn. “We are proud of our partnership with the Philippine government to help the Filipino people prepare for and respond to disasters,” The United States is a key partner of the Philippine government in preparing for and responding to disasters, as well as delivering life-saving humanitarian assistance. Since 2010, USAID has provided approximately P17 billion ($372 million) in disaster relief and recovery aid and boosted the disaster risk reduction capacity of over 100 cities and municipalities in the Philippines. The post US provides P450-M to boost disaster preparedness of vulnerable communities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Solon pushes more ‘Pambansang Pabahay’ subsidies
A lawmaker is urging the national government to fully support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s flagship Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program and lower the monthly amortization for the underprivileged Filipinos. ACT Partylist Representative France Castro — during the plenary deliberations on the Fiscal Year 2024 budget of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development on Thursday — stressed her stance on making public housing accessible and affordable, especially for the underprivileged. She added that an increase in government subsidy to augment beneficiary amortization for housing units is key to achieve this. In response, DHSUD, through its budget sponsor Ako Bicol Partylist Raul Angelo Bongalon, agreed on the manifestation, saying that the goal of the 4PH Program is to address affordability of decent housing for the Filipino people. Bongalon then pleaded for the full support of the Congress to augment the housing and urban development sector’s budget with an additional P13.86 billion. “The country’s ability to address the housing problem and attain its goal is limited by the budget allocated for the housing agencies… Business as usual will not address this housing requirement,” Bongalon said. The DHSUD has initially proposed P116 billion for the fiscal year 2024 but the National Expenditure Program only reflected P5.4 billion for the entire sector. “The Department is once again seeking our support in giving them the appropriate budget. The additional budget will ensure that DHSUD will be able to carry out its mandate of providing decent and affordable shelter to all,” Bongalon said. The post Solon pushes more ‘Pambansang Pabahay’ subsidies appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
House granting DTI bigger budget
The House Committee on Appropriations, which scrutinizes the annual proposed expenditure of various government agencies, will exercise its power to grant the Department of Trade and Industry a bigger chunk of the proposed P5.768-trillion national budget for 2024. Congress, which holds the power of the purse, lobbies to afford DTI a greater budget to attain the country’s pursuit of generating additional jobs and better opportunities for the underemployed, which could be fulfilled through the DTI, the country’s main investment promotion agency. The Department of Budget Management did not grant DTI’s proposed P21.03 billion budget for 2024 and slashed it to P7.91 billion. The pending allocated expenditure, however, is still way higher than the agency’s current spending plan of P6.327 billion under the General Appropriations Act. For the panel’s chairperson, Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Elizaldy Co, Congress must ensure that DTI and its attached agencies have the resources to do its work properly to generate more investments and create better-paying jobs for Filipinos. “We also have to spend more to develop the products we export as well as train Filipinos to be entrepreneurs; to be job creators, not seekers. If we could do this, we could prevent our people from voting with their feet,” Co said on Monday. The DTI’s Office of the Secretary and the Board of Investments suffered the most in the national expenditure program for next year as the DBM cut their projected budget of P12.61 billion and P1.85 billion, respectively. The DBM only allocated the Office of the Secretary P5.32 billion while P659 million for the BoI. Data comparing the DTI budget proposal with the DBM submitted to the House of Representatives revealed cuts in spending for industry development projects, micro, small, and medium enterprises, consumer protection programs, Malikhaing Pinoy, and the establishment of Negosyo Centers. WITH RAFFY AYENG @tribunephl_raf The post House granting DTI bigger budget appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Principal Sponsor Bong Go lauds signing of Regional Specialty Centers Act
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, principal sponsor and one of the authors of the Regional Specialty Centers (RSC) Act, commended the signing of the measure into law by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. “I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. for recognizing the importance of this legislation and signing it into law. His support has been instrumental in bringing specialized medical care closer to our fellow Filipinos,” said Go. "Walang Pilipino ang dapat mapag-iwanan pagdating sa kalusugan. Ang bawat Pilipino ay may karapatan sa de-kalidad na serbisyong medikal, kahit saan man sila sa bansa," he stressed. The law aims to create additional specialty centers in various regions, ensuring that Filipinos have access to specialized medical services. “With the signing of this law, we are taking a giant leap in improving access to specialized medical care and bringing these services closer to Filipinos in need," said Go. "Now, our countrymen suffering from severe illnesses won't have to travel to Manila for treatment at specialty hospitals like the Philippine Heart Center or Lung Center,” he added. The newly enacted law includes provisions for the establishment of specialty centers within existing government-controlled corporations or specialty hospitals. It also outlines the specific service capabilities that the Department of Health (DOH) will implement in regional hospitals. “By setting clear standards, we are ensuring that these specialty centers will have the necessary expertise and resources to cater to patients' specialized medical needs effectively across the country,” Go added. The law also details the medical specialties that DOH must prioritize in the establishment of these centers. Go also expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts of his fellow legislators in crafting a comprehensive law. “Isa pong malaking tagumpay para sa atin ang pagiging ganap na batas ng SBN 2212, o ang Regional Specialty Centers Act. Isa po tayo sa author at tayo rin ang principal sponsor nito sa Senado. Nakakuha ito ng 24-0 na boto sa Senado dahil sa pagsang-ayon ng aking mga kasamahan na makakabuti ito para sa lahat,” Go shared. “Ang mga pasyente na nangangailangan ng special medical care ay kinakailangan pang bumiyahe at gumastos para lang magpagamot sa mga specialty hospitals na ito. Pero hindi naman dapat mahirapan ang ating mga kababayan na maka-access sa serbisyo ng gobyerno lalo na pagdating sa usaping kalusugan. Ang gobyerno dapat ang maglapit ng serbisyo sa mga tao. Kaya sa ilalim ng bagong batas ay dadalhin na ang ganitong specialized medical services sa bawat rehiyon,” he added. “Umaasa tayo na sa pagtatayo ng specialty centers sa buong bansa ay lalo nating mapalalakas ang ating healthcare system at magiging accessible sa bawat Pilipino ang serbisyong medikal na kailangan nila para magkaroon ng malusog at matiwasay na buhay,” the senator explained further. According to DOH’s timeline, the establishment of specialty centers in the National Capital Region will take place in Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center, Quirino Memorial Medical Center, East Avenue Medical Center, Tondo Medical Center, Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, Valenzuela Medical Center, Las Piñas General Hospital and Satellite Trauma Center, Rizal Medical Center, and Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium. In Luzon, specialty centers will be established in Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center, Region I Medical Center, Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center, Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center, Cagayan Valley Medical Center, Region II Trauma and Medical Center, Southern Isabela Medical Center, Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center, Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center, Mariveles Mental Wellness and General Hospital, Batangas Medical Center, Ospital ng Palawan, Culion Sanitarium and General Hospital, Bicol Medical Center, Bicol Region General Hospital, Geriatric Medical Center, Bicol Medical Center, and Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center. The Visayas region will witness the creation of specialty centers in Western Visayas Medical Center, Western Visayas Sanitarium and General Hospital, Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center, Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center, and Eastern Visayas Medical Center. In Mindanao, specialty centers will be established in Zamboanga City Medical Center, Northern Mindanao Medical Center, Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center, Southern Philippines Medical Center, Davao Regional Medical Center, Cotabato Regional and Medical Center, Caraga Regional Hospital, Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center, and Amai Pakpak Medical Center. “These specialty centers will reduce the need for travel to Metro Manila for specialized treatments. Our people will now have access to these services in regional DOH hospitals, enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life,” Go stated. “Ang batas na ito ay simbolo ng ating pagkakaisa at determinasyon na gawing abot-kamay ang specialized healthcare services para sa lahat," concluded Go. The post Principal Sponsor Bong Go lauds signing of Regional Specialty Centers Act appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SBF plants pili trees, turns over 16 classrooms in Naga
Security Bank Foundation Inc. celebrated its classroom donation in Naga, Camarines Sur with the planting of pili tree seedlings at the open grounds of Camarines Sur National High School, one of its beneficiary schools. The Bicol region is the largest exporter of delicacies made from pili trees. “The pili tree holds significance for Bicolanos as it represents stability and growth, similar to the benefits that education offers students. It also symbolizes the strong partnership of Security Bank, Ateneo, the Naga City Government and the Department of Education in providing a shelter for learning to students with complementary opportunities for them to grow through the additional training programs offered for teachers and principals,” said Dr. Sulpicio Alferez III, Camarines Sur National High School principal. Naga, Camarines Sur is the second town where SBFI piloted its Build a School, Build a Nation Program. In 2012, one-story prefab classrooms were donated to three public schools in Naga. With the rapid increase in student enrollment, limited buildable space and challenging weather conditions, SBFI shifted to donating concrete two-story school buildings. SBFI went back to Naga to turn over 16 concrete classrooms consisting of a two-story, six-classroom school building in Naga City School of Arts and Trades and a two-story, 10-classroom school building in Camarines Sur National High School. Naga City Mayor Nelson Legacion lauded Security Bank Foundation for helping the city minimize its backlog in classrooms. “We have more than 50 banks here in Naga, but it was only Security Bank that donated classrooms even if they only have two branches in the city,” Legacion said. SBFI now has 691 classrooms turned over to 122 schools located in 69 cities and municipalities nationwide. The post SBF plants pili trees, turns over 16 classrooms in Naga appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
2nd State of the Nation Address
Anti-inflation measures Crafting of Medium-Term Fiscal Framework supported by Congress Implementation of strategies to capacitate economic sectors Results (1) 7.6 percent growth in 2022 — highest rate in 46 years. (2) January to March 2023 — 6.4 growth percent (within 6 to 7 percent target) (3) Philippines considered to be among fastest-growing economies in the Asian region and in the world (4) Strong and stable financial system (5) Banks have strong capital and liquidity positions. (6) Digital economy contributed P2 trillion in 2022, the equivalent of 9.4 percent of our GDP. (7) World Bank projects a 6 percent overall growth rate due to strong local demand, consumer spending, strength from the BPO industry, steady flow of remittances, and continuing jobs recovery (8) Inflation rate eased up from 8.7 percent in January to 5.4 percent in June. (9) Bureau of Internal Revenue posted P1.05 trillion collections — an increase of almost 10 percent over the last year (10) Bureau of Customs increased collection by 7.4 percent for the first seven months of 2023, amounting to P476 billion. (11) PAGCOR increased collection by 47.9 percent (12) PCSO increased collection by 20 percent Reduction of prices of commodities like rice, meat, fish, vegetables and sugar Roll out of more than 7,000 KADIWA stores nationwide that link farmers with consumers, benefited 1.8 million families Agriculture Science-based methods toward food security Revision of Fisheries Code Unify 300 farm and fisheries clusters composed of 900 cooperatives Extensive technology training like the use of local bio-fertilizers Distribution of farm machinery, tools and inclement Distribution of more than 5 million rice seedlings and other crops Fuel at fertilizer discount vouchers Geo-Agri map of farm-to-market roads Irrigated 49,000 hectares of farmlands across the country. Constructed 4,000 additional fabrication labs, production at cold storage facilities Built 24 multi-species hatcheries to increase fisheries production Anti-animal pest monitoring, medicines, and vaccines Cloud seeding and buffer stocks in preparation for El Niño 70,000 agrarian land titles distributed Signing of EO No. 4. Or New Agrarian Emancipation Act the condoned P57-billion farmers’ loans Smuggling and hoarding Days of smugglers and hoarders are numbered Water Supply Creation of Water Resources Management Office Working for legislation of Department of Water Resource Management Allocated P14.6 billion for water supply projects Completion of Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project Phase 1 Installed 6,0000 rainwater collection systems across the country Infrastructure 8.3-trillion peso “Build, Better, More” Program in progress 194 flagship projects Continuation of “Build, Build, Build” projects Infrastructure spending stays at 5 to 6 percent of GDP 1,200-kilometer Luzon Spine Expressway Network Program will effectively connect Ilocos to Bicol from 20 hours to just 9 hours of travel Under Mega-Bridge Program, 12 bridges totaling 90 kilometers will be constructed including Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge and the Panay-Guimaras-Negros Island Bridges, and Samal Island-Davao City Connector Bridge As of June 2023, 4,000 kilometers of roads and 500 bridges have been constructed, maintained and upgraded Completed Cebu’s Pier 88 smart port, new passenger terminal buildings of Clark Airport and Port of Calapan. North-South Commuter Railway System now in full swing Strategic financing Enactment into law of Maharlika Investment Fund Social security Funds for the social security and public health insurance intact and separate Energy and Power Generation Price of crude oil stabilized Since last year, gasoline and diesel prices have gone down by 18 to 29 percent, respectively. Built 8 new additional power plants, bringing to 17 the total number of power generation facilities Energy production increased by 1,174 megawatts. Almost half a million homes given access to electricity; 100 percent household electrification by June 2028 Renewable energy is the way forward Promotion of renewables targets 35 percent share in the power mix by 2030, and 50 percent by 2040 Opened renewable energy projects to foreign investments Since last year, an additional 126 renewable energy contracts with potential capacity of 31,000 megawatts awarded. To date, more than 1,000 active projects all over the country — 299 are solar, 187 are wind, 436 are hydroelectric, 58 are biomass, 36 are geothermal, and 9 are ocean-powered. Malampaya project is boon, energizing 20 percent of Luzon; renewal of the contract guarantees continued revenues and energy production for another 15 years Push for more gas exploration in other parts of the country Partnered with the BARMM in regard to energy exploration and development The Philippines now has a Unified National Grid with the interconnection of the Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao grids “One Grid, One Market” will enable more efficient transfers and more competitive pricing of electricity Performance review of National Grid Corporation of the Philippines to complete all of its deliverables, starting with the vital Mindanao-Visayas and Cebu-Negros-Panay interconnections. Social welfare Enough funds for underprivileged DSWD, DoLE, DepEd, TESDA and CHEd involved in providing assistance Programs like AICS, TUPAD, TVET for Social Equity, Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens, Cash-for-Work for PWDs, and Integrated Livelihood Program-Kabuhayan available for indigents Social protection Pension of the military and the uniformed personnel is as important, urgent, and humanitarian as that of all other civilian Filipino employees Working closely with Congress to ease the transition from the old system to the new one, to guarantee that no effects are felt by those in the uniformed services. The post 2nd State of the Nation Address appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go’s office assists conflict-affected residents in Libmanan, Camarines Sur
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s office extended assistance to conflict-affected and Geographically-Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas in Libmanan, Camarines Sur on Friday, 14 July. The initiative reflects Go’s continuing commitment to assist the most vulnerable communities in the country, particularly barangays where the distribution of government assistance is hampered due to their geographical locations and the existence of local conflicts. “Our goal is not just to address immediate needs, but also to create long-lasting impacts. We are extending our hand to the communities often neglected and forgotten due to their geographical location or internal conflicts. Everyone deserves equal access to government aid and support, regardless of where they live,” said Go. Go also reminded the residents about the importance of unity and cooperation in overcoming challenges. “In these times of crisis, it is paramount that we come together as one nation. Our strength lies in our unity and collective action,” he stated. During the activity held at Brgy. Villasocorro covered court, Go’s team distributed masks, vitamins, snacks and shirts to 108 beneficiaries. The team also provided several individuals with balls for basketball and volleyball. The Department of Social Welfare and Development also extended financial assistance to the beneficiaries in coordination with the 81st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, Go reached out to individuals with medical issues. Through a video message, he urged them to visit the Malasakit Centers located at the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City and the Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center in Cabusao. The Malasakit Centers program was initiated by Go in 2018 and was later institutionalized through the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which he principally authored and sponsored. The program aims to facilitate easy access to various medical assistance programs provided by DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. There are currently 158 Malasakit Centers operating nationwide, successfully aiding over seven million Filipinos, according to the DOH. Go also stressed the significance of the Super Health Centers, which he initiated, in bridging the healthcare gap especially in communities. Through the concerted efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funding has been allocated for the construction of 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and additional 322 centers in 2023. The DOH, as the lead implementing agency, identifies strategic areas where these centers will be built. In Camarines Sur alone, 18 Super Health Centers have been funded for construction in 2022 and 2023. Super Health Centers are designed to provide basic health services, including database management, outpatient care, birthing facilities, isolation units, diagnostic services (such as laboratory tests, X-rays, and ultrasounds), pharmacies, and ambulatory surgical units. In addition, specialized services like eye, ear, nose, and throat care, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine capabilities for remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will also be available. Go, in his capacity as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported a range of projects aimed at improving infrastructure in the province, including the construction of the Mabolo-Almeda Bypass Road in Naga City. Go was also instrumental in the enhancement of the San Fernando Sports Complex in San Fernando town, improvement of the Bula and Nabua Section channel, and construction of the Lalud-Garchitorena Road, among others. On July 13, Go also provided assistance to poor transport sector workers in the town of Calabanga in the province. His office also provided assistance to poor families in Ragay and Libmanan, on 4 and 5 July, respectively. ### The post Bong Go’s office assists conflict-affected residents in Libmanan, Camarines Sur appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Solons hail benefits of new agrarian law
The newly enacted Republic Act 11953 or New Agrarian Emancipation Act, which was signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on 7 July, will not only liberate thousands of farmers from long-standing debts but is also expected to boost rice production in the country. Thus said Speaker Martin Romualdez, one of the principal authors of the House version of the legislation, who has high hopes the new law will significantly contribute to the country’s rice sufficiency. “Now that our farmers will soon be free of debt, I hope they will be able to increase their production to at least 100 50-kilo bags per hectare, from the present 60 to 70 cavans. But, of course, the government will have to help along the way,” Romualdez said yesterday. The enactment of the law, he said, also grants farmers additional resources to spend on essential needs such as food, education, shelter, wellness, and other family expenses that they would have had to skip otherwise due to the high cost of living that coincided with their unpaid debt. RA 11953 wrote off “all principal loans, unpaid amortization, and interest” of 610,054 agrarian reform beneficiaries totaling P57 billion from the time of the President’s father, Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. Farmers who were granted land under Presidential Decree 27, signed by Marcos Sr. in October 1972, were the beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. Marcos Jr. earlier thanked the 19th Congress for expediting the legislation’s passage, which several administrations had failed to accomplish. With the enactment of the law freeing farmers from debt, Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, among the principal authors of the law, believes that it would likewise pave the way for the estate tax amnesty exemption for agrarian reform beneficiaries who transferred agrarian land to their heirs. “Good policy does not only seek to correct the mistakes of the past,” Salceda said, citing “the imposition of heavy debts and the tying up of agrarian land” as the key issues addressed by the newly enacted law. He added: “One of the reasons productivity from agrarian lands has stagnated is because they cannot be transferred to the younger generation of farmers, because of debts and attached liens, and the estate tax.” Agri boost Echoing Romualdez, Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez said the law would help improve the plight of the farmers, give a needed boost to the agriculture industry and ensure food security for the country. Gomez was also a proponent of the law. He said: “This gives hope to our farmers that soon, they will be the rightful owners of the land they have been tilling for decades, and that they would no longer be bound to serve and kowtow to the demands of wealthy landowners.” Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co also believes the New Agrarian Emancipation Act would give farmers a fresh start and the opportunity to improve their livelihood. “It is a positive move from the government to support and uplift our agricultural sector,” the chairman of the House appropriations panel added. The New Agrarian Emancipation Act is among the 33 measures the House has approved out of the 42 priority measures of the Marcos administration identified through the Legislative-Executive Advisory Council or LEDAC. The post Solons hail benefits of new agrarian law appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go checks on evacuees affected by Mayon’s unrest
Sen. Bong Go went to Albay on Thursday, 22 June to provide support to evacuees affected by Mt. Mayon’s unrest, aid indigents, and conduct an inspection of the Super Health Center in Tabaco City. Emphasizing the significance of investing in local health facilities, Go underscored the role of Super Health Centers in enhancing the accessibility of vital healthcare services for the local residents. “Ito pong Super Health Center, isa po ito sa pamamaraan para ilapit natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan at madi-decongest ang mga ospital dahil hindi na kailangan ng mga buntis na pumunta ng ospital, pwede na po diyan ‘yung mga primary care,” he underscored. The Super Health Center that Go inspected is located in the National Housing Authority resettlement area in Brgy. San Vicente. The housing project was part of the Duterte administration’s efforts to provide housing for Typhoon Rolly victims in 2020. The project was approved in 2021 and started construction in 2022. There are 2361 housing units, built on a 20 hectare LGU property. This strategic location for the Super Health Center was made to provide essential medical services to recovering typhoon victims and their community. It will benefit the more than 2000 housing beneficiaries residing in the area. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The Department of Health, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. Aside from Tabaco City, the DOH has identified the cities of Legazpi and Ligao; and the town of Camalig, Malilipot, and Pio Duran as locations for the Super Health Centers in Albay. Super Health Centers shall offer basic medical services under one roof, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services 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. Go also took the lead in organizing a relief operation at the Barangay San Antonio covered court in the city. The operation assisted 151 evacuees and 250 indigent residents. Go personally oversaw the distribution of essential aid from his office such as grocery packs, snacks, masks, and vitamins to the beneficiaries. Select individuals were also given additional items, including shirts, shoes, mobile phones, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball. Furthermore, a team from the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance to all qualified beneficiaries. More indigents will also be provided aid in the coming days through the initiative of the Office of Sen. Go, the LGU, and DSWD. Go, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, also offered to assist those with medical concerns as he encouraged them to seek the services of the Malasakit Center at Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital in Legazpi City. Currently, there are 158 operational Malasakit Centers that have assisted more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the DOH. “Ang Malasakit Center po ay one-stop shop, nasa loob na ho ng hospital ‘yung apat na ahensya ng gobyerno — ‘yung DOH, DSWD, PhilHealth, at PCSO. Tutulungan po kayo na mabayaran ang inyong billing,” said Go, who principally authored and sponsored Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. Meanwhile, to help boost development in Albay and as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go has also supported the construction of multipurpose buildings in Ligao City, Oas and Polangui; rehabilitation of several roads in Camalig, Daraga, Jovellar, Legazpi City, Ligao City, Pio Duran and Rapu-Rapu; and rehabilitation of flood control systems in Malilipot, Camalig, Daraga, Guinobatan, Malinao, Manito, Oas and Polangui. On the same day, Go likewise extended his assistance to evacuees in the town of Malilipot. Amid the continued state of unrest of the Mayon Volcano, Go reiterated his call for the passage of his proposed measures that will establish the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR), as well as mandatory evacuation centers throughout the country. Go stressed that his proposed Senate Bill No. 188, which will establish the DDR, would centralize efforts, streamline coordination, and ensure more swift and effective response to emergencies. “It should be a cabinet-level dahil tuwing mayro'ng sakuna, dapat may point person talaga with clear authority and mandate,” added Go. The creation of the said department, if enacted into law, shall concentrate on three key result areas, namely: disaster risk reduction, disaster preparedness and response, and recovery and building forward better. The Office of Civil Defense has recently voiced its support for the establishment of the DDR. "Nabanggit nga kanina, paano natin pagbabawalan doon ‘eh coordination lang naman tayo, hindi ho ba? So kailangan po ng mas malakas na kapangyarihan ang Office of Civil Defense, maaaring maging departamento o authority; but it needs legislation," OCD Administrator Ariel Nepomuceno said in a recent interview when asked about evacuation efforts in permanent danger zones near active volcanoes. "Things can be better if there will be an independent authority or department, but it’s not that simple – tanggap po namin iyon… We leave it to Congress and we leave it to the Palace, to Malacañang. Meanwhile, kami naman, we are doing our best given the limitations, makakaasa po kayo," the OCD chief said. Meanwhile, Go also highlighted his proposed SBN 193 which seeks to mandate the establishment of permanent, secure, and well-equipped evacuation centers in every municipality, city, and province throughout the Philippines. “Sa pamamagitan ng panukalang ito, hindi rin maaantala ang pag-aaral ng mga bata tuwing ginagamit na pansamantalang tuluyan ang mga eskuwelahan. Mas madali ring makakabangon ang ating mga kababayan kung protektado at komportable sila sa mga dedicated evacuation centers lalo na sa Albay at sa mga malalapit sa aktibong bulkan, pati na rin sa coastlines o ibang danger zones kapag may bagyo o iba pang kalamidad na dumarating,” he said. “Hindi man natin masasabi kung kailan darating ang sakuna, mas mabuti nang laging handa tayo,” he ended. The post Bong Go checks on evacuees affected by Mayon’s unrest appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NDRRMC: Restive Mayon displaces 10K families
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council on Friday reported that some 9,947 families or 38,391 individuals residing in 26 villages in Bicol Region have been affected by the ongoing unrest of Mayon Volcano in Albay province. In its latest situational report, NDRRMC said 5,125 families or 18,584 individuals are currently occupying 27 evacuation centers, while the rest are being sheltered by relatives or friends. The NDRRMC stressed these numbers are still subject to change as validations are ongoing. The Office of Civil Defense said it has extended additional assistance to the provincial government of Albay, providing 3,200 sacks of rice and other relief items for the communities affected by the ongoing unrest of Mayon Volcano. Also distributed were tarpaulin rolls, N-95 face masks, family food packs, hygiene kits, pelican cases, a portable water filtration unit and a water filtration truck to Albay to assist residents in the affected areas. Albay Governor Edcel Lagman earlier received the supplies from Defense Secretary and NDRRMC Chairperson Gilberto Teodoro Jr., and OCD administrator and NDRRMC executive director Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno. In a television interview on Friday, NDRRMC spokesperson Raffy Alejandro said there are no reported injuries or casualties yet amid Mayon's unrest. "As long as nobody is inside the permanent danger zone, we don't expect any casualty… But the challenge really is how to maintain or manage the evacuation centers because this is where we might have problems,” he said. Alejandro said they are closely monitoring the situation of evacuees as the NDRRMC initially received reports of diarrhea cases from occupants of evacuation centers. The Department of Health has likewise recorded cases of respiratory problems among evacuees. “We have to prevent outbreaks of diseases, problems in terms of health and sanitation," Alejandro stressed. The post NDRRMC: Restive Mayon displaces 10K families appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Regional Specialty Centers eyed
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, author and principal sponsor of the Regional Specialty Center bill, recently stressed the significance of these facilities in providing accessible and specialized healthcare services to Filipinos across the country. In an ambush interview after attending the groundbreaking for the Super Health Center in Digos City, the lawmaker explained that the primary objective of these specialty centers is to bridge the gap between the people and essential specialized healthcare services. To recall, Congress on 31 May ratified the Bicameral Conference Report on the Regional Specialty Centers Act and the measure will soon be transmitted to the Office of the President for the approval of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. By establishing these specialty centers in various regional hospitals, Go believes that it will alleviate the burden faced by patients who have to travel to Manila and other urban areas for specialized treatments. He also said that the Department of Health will identify the regional hospitals capable of housing the specialty centers. The senator stressed the importance of bringing medical services closer to Filipinos who may face challenges in accessing healthcare in Metro Manila. Many citizens lack the means to travel to the capital, have no relatives there, and face additional expenses such as transportation, accommodation and food. With the establishment of the Regional Specialty Center, patients will have the opportunity to receive top-notch medical care from government health facilities in their own regions, saving them time, money and effort. Go also revealed plans to expand specialized medical services at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City to include renal care, brain and spine treatment, and orthopedic services, eliminating the need for patients to travel to the Philippine Orthopedic Center in Quezon City, for example. According to the DoH’s timeline, the establishment of specialty centers in National Capital Region will take place in Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center, Quirino Memorial Medical Center, East Avenue Medical Center, Tondo Medical Center, Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, Valenzuela Medical Center, Las Piñas General Hospital and Satellite Trauma Center, Rizal Medical Center, and Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium. He also said that the Department of Health will identify the regional hospitals capable of housing the specialty centers. In Luzon, specialty centers will be established in Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center, Region I Medical Center, Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center, Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center, Cagayan Valley Medical Center, Region II Trauma and Medical Center, Southern Isabela Medical Center, Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center, Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center, Mariveles Mental Wellness and General Hospital, Batangas Medical Center, Ospital ng Palawan, Culion Sanitarium and General Hospital, Bicol Medical Center, Bicol Region General Hospital, Geriatric Medical Center, Bicol Medical Center, and Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center. The Visayas region will witness the creation of specialty centers in Western Visayas Medical Center, Western Visayas Sanitarium and General Hospital, Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center, Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center and Eastern Visayas Medical Center. In Mindanao, specialty centers will be established in Zamboanga City Medical Center, Northern Mindanao Medical Center, Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center, Southern Philippines Medical Center, Davao Regional Medical Center, Cotabato Regional and Medical Center, Caraga Regional Hospital, Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center, and Amai Pakpak Medical Center. The post Regional Specialty Centers eyed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go returns to Bicol to help various sectoral groups in Camarines Sur
Showing his commitment to bring public service closer to Bicolanos in need, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go returns to Bicol region to personally lead a relief distribution for indigents from various sectors in Camarines Sur on Saturday, June 10. Last June 3, Go visited the Malasakit Center at the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City where he checked on its operations and provided assistance to both patients and frontliners. Additionally, he participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Super Health Center in the same city and attended the Bicol Social Media Summit. He also inspected the by-pass road which was initiated during the Duterte administration through his support. This time, Go went back to Camarines Sur to help thousands of indigents in the province. Held at the Fuerte Sports Complex in Pili, Go and his team distributed food packs, masks, vitamins, snacks and shirts to 2,699 residents, composed of 1,247 fisherfolks and 1,452 students. They also provided select individuals with shoes, shirts, watch, bicycles, cellular phones, and balls for basketball and volleyball. Meanwhile, representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance to the beneficiaries. Go was joined by fellow Senator Robinhood Padilla, Camarines Sur 2nd District Representative Luis Raymund Villafuerte, 5th District Representative Miguel Villafuerte, Bicol Saro Party-list Representative Brian Yamsuan, Governor Luigi Villafuerte, Vice Governor Sal Fortuno, Jr., Libmanan Mayor Jes Camara, Calabanga Mayor Eugene Severo, Baao Mayor Jeff Besinio, Canaman Mayor Nelson Legaspi, and Gainza Mayor Leonardo Agor, among others. During the activity, local leaders and beneficiaries took a moment to express their gratitude to Go by singing him a birthday song to mark his upcoming birthday on June 14. Appreciative of their gesture, Go conveyed his thanks and proceeded to emphasize the importance of addressing their immediate needs, particularly the provision of nourishment to those in dire situations. "Mayroon rin po kaming dalang grocery packs para sa inyong lahat ngayong araw na ito. Madadala n'yo po pag-uwi ang grocery packs... May dala rin po kaming vitamins, pampalakas ng inyong resistensya. Kapag malakas ang inyong resistensya, mas lalaban po ang inyong katawan kontra sakit," urged Go. As chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go also reached out to individuals with medical issues, urging them to visit the Malasakit Centers located at the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City and the Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center in Cabusao. The Malasakit Centers program, which was initiated by Go in 2018, was later institutionalized through the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019 that he principally authored and sponsored. The program aims to facilitate easy access to various medical assistance programs provided by the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. There are currently 158 Malasakit Centers operating nationwide, successfully aiding over seven million Filipinos, according to the DOH. Continuing his message, Go also emphasized the significance of Super Health Centers which he initiated and continues to champion to bridge the healthcare gap especially in grassroots communities. Through the concerted efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funding has been allocated for the construction of 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and additional 322 centers in 2023. The DOH, as the lead implementing agency, identifies strategic areas where these centers will be built. In Camarines Sur alone, 18 Super Health Centers have been funded for construction in 2022 and 2023. Super Health Centers are designed to provide basic health services, including database management, outpatient care, birthing facilities, isolation units, diagnostic services (such as laboratory tests, X-rays, and ultrasounds), pharmacies, and ambulatory surgical units. In addition, specialized services like eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) care, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine capabilities for remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will also be available. Go, in his capacity as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, also supported a range of projects aimed at improving the province's infrastructure. These included the construction of the Mabolo - Almeda Bypass Road in Naga City. Additionally, Go was instrumental in enhancing the San Fernando Sports Complex in San Fernando, Camarines Sur, improving the Bula and Nabua Section channel, and construction of the Lalud - Garchitorena Road, among others. After his visit to Camarines Sur, Go immediately proceeded to Camarines Norte for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Super Health Center in Talisay town where he also aided struggling residents. The senator also paid a visit to the Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital in Daet to check on the operations of the Malasakit Center there and aid patients and frontliners in the hospital. The post Bong Go returns to Bicol to help various sectoral groups in Camarines Sur appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl logs 7 Arcturus cases
The Philippines has detected seven new cases of Omicron subvariant XBB.1.16, also known as the Arcturus variant in the country, bringing the total caseload to 11. Based on the latest genomic sequencing data by the University of the Philippines-Philippine Genome Center from 9 to 11 May, seven were classified as Arcturus cases out of the 137 sequenced samples. Of the newly detected Arcturus cases, two were found in Western Visayas, and two in Central Luzon. The Cordillera Administrative Region, MIMAROPA and Bicol Region also reported one case each. The Department of Health previously confirmed local transmission of the Arcturus variant in the country, following the detection of more cases of the Omicron subvariant. Last month, the country logged its first Arcturus case, which was detected in Iloilo in Western Visayas. The first Arcturus case was asymptomatic and already recovered from Covid-19, according to the DoH. Meanwhile, the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc. said there has been an increase in the number of hospital admissions due to Covid-19. In an interview with Daily Tribune, PHAPi president Dr. Jose Rene De Grano said that there had been a 30 percent to 60 percent increase in Covid-19 admissions in private hospitals. “Unfortunately, Covid-19 hospital admissions are still in an upward trend although it is gradual. It is not that high,” he said. According to De Grano, most hospital admissions due to Covid-19 occurred in the National Capital Region and Calabarzon. Asked if private hospitals see the need to provide additional Covid-19 beds, he noted that it is “not needed.” “Right now, it is still very manageable. We haven’t received any reports from any of our hospitals that their Covid-19 beds are fully occupied,” he said. On Saturday, the Health department recorded a total of 2,080 new Covid-19 cases, raising the country’s total caseload to 4,125,716. The post Phl logs 7 Arcturus cases appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bill seeks more Shari’ah Courts
Senator Robinhood Padilla has filed Senate Bill 2215 pushing for the establishment of additional Shari’ah Courts in the country to make an “equitable and speedy justice system” become accessible to more Muslim Filipinos. SB 2215 proposed amendments to Presidential Decree 1083, citing the 1987 Constitution’s provision that the “State shall recognize, respect and protect the rights of indigenous cultural communities to preserve and develop their cultures, traditions and institutions.” “This is to ensure that our Muslim brothers and sisters across the archipelago will have better access to the specialized knowledge and expertise of Shari’ah judges, promoting fair and equal treatment of Muslims under the law, regardless of their geographic location,” Padilla told reporters on Saturday. Padilla also stressed the growing number of Muslim Filipinos and the increasing rate of migration across the country “calls for the need to establish additional justice districts” to resolve disputes involving Muslim customary and personal laws. Under the proposed measure, three Shari’ah districts shall be established in addition to five existing district courts, which have territorial jurisdiction only over the Mindanao areas including in Sulu; Tawi-Tawi; Basilan, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur and Dipolog, Pagadian, and Zamboanga Cities; Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur and Iligan and Marawi Cities; and Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato City. The bill pushed for the sixth district for Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Camiguin, Cagayan de Oro City and provinces in Davao Region and Caraga. Seventh district for provinces within Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and Mimaropa; while the eighth district shall be built within Metro Manila Cordillera, and Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Bicol Region. The bill also seeks for the establishment of permanent stations should the three new districts will be established in Davao City (sixth district); Cebu City (seventh district); and Manila City (eighth district). So far, the existing permanent stations are in Jolo, Sulu; Bongao, Tawi-Tawi; Zamboanga City; Marawi City; and Cotabato City. These Shari’ah courts are under the supervision of the Supreme Court of the Philippines. Shari’ah District Court is roughly equivalent to the Regional Trial Court in the regular and secular Philippine court system — which is primarily bound by Islamic laws for the protection of life, property and mind of Muslim Filipinos. The post Bill seeks more Shari’ah Courts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
26 LGUs in Bicol to undergo capacity assessment for DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS implementation
26 LGUs in Bicol to undergo capacity assessment for DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS implementation.....»»
Zamboanga City leads cast in second leg of Chooks 3×3
Alvin Pasaol and the rest of the Zamboanga City-Family’s Brand Sardines squad are out to prove their first leg triumph is no fluke. (Photo from Chooks 3×3) Zamboanga City-Family’s Brand Sardines is out to continue its dominance while Nueva Ecija won’t be having Juan Gomez de Liano on Friday in the second leg of the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3×3 President’s Cup at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna. The team of Joshua Munzon, Alvin Pasaol, Troy Rike and Santi Santillan is aiming to repeat its conquest of the inaugural leg two days ago, first by hurdling the two preliminary round matches which starts at 1 p.m. Munzon, Pasaol, Rike and Santillan, who beat Butuan City, 21-19, for the first leg crown to assert their status as favorites, are going to face Pasig-Sta. Lucia and Petro Cement-Roxas in Pool B. Nueva Ecija will miss Gomez de Liano, one of the country’s top amateur cagers, after spraining his ankle during Wednesday’s first leg that saw the Rice Vanguards reach the semifinals of the TM-backed competition. Without Gomez de Liano, Gab Banal, Jai Reyes, Tonino Gonzaga and Maclyn Sabellina will have to work doubly hard in order to equal its first leg showing. Nueva Ecija is in Pool A together with Palayan City and Sarangani. Butuan, powered by Franky Johnson, is in Pool C with Bicol-Paxful 3×3 Pro and Zamboanga Peninsula MLV while Porac-Big Boss Cement, Bacolod City-Master Sardines and Pagadian Rocky Sports are in Pool D. Like in the first leg, the top two teams per pool advance to the knockout quarterfinals, with the champion receiving P100,000. An additional P100,000 will be given to the team that beats Zamboanga City in the finals as a way to toughen Munzon, Pasaol, Rike and Santillan as part of preparations for next year’s FIBA 3×3 Olympic Qualifying Tournament. Games will be aired on BEAM TV channel 31 and streamed on the Facebook page of Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas and the YouTube channel of FIBA 3×3......»»