Agri bats for & lsquo;state of emergency& rsquo; amid ASF onslaught, seeks payoff probe
The Department of Agriculture has asked President Rodrigo Duterte to declare a national state of emergency to address the threat of African swine fever (ASF), which caused the decimation of the pig population, tight pork supply, and high market prices......»»
Rama wants state of calamity declared in Cebu City due to El Niño
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Mayor Michael Rama wants to place Cebu City under a state of calamity or a state of emergency due to the effects of the El Niño phenomenon. The declaration will allow City Hall to use government funds to assist those who are badly affected by the worsening El Niño, especially the.....»»
DOT seeks inclusion in protected areas board amid Chocolate Hills issue
Department of Tourism Sec. Christina Frasco —INQUIRER.net file photo / Ryan Leagogo After the recent controversy surrounding a resort development near Chocolate Hills in Sagbayan town, Bohol, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced plans to advocate for its inclusion in the national government’s Protected Area Management Board (PAMB). Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco stated during a.....»»
No new chief yet — Agri exec
Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban on Tuesday said that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. did not discuss the appointment of a new Agriculture Secretary during their latest sectoral meeting. In a Malacañang Press Briefing, Panganiban said that he could not confirm the reports on appointing a new Agriculture Secretary and that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is doing an “excellent job” leading the department. Panganiban’s statement comes amid reports that President Marcos is considering appointing fishing tycoon Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. as the new Agriculture Secretary. Laurel is the chairman of the Federation of Philippine Industries and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “With (Marcos) at the helm, everything is integrated, and all government efforts are coordinated. We can no longer say to the Department of Agriculture, ‘This is your job, not ours.’ We are all collaborating now, and we are even talking to you in the media to work together because, once again, food security is not the responsibility of one agency alone but of all of us,” Panganiban said. “I think that’s what sets him apart from his predecessors,” he added. Panganiban also said that he could not comment on whether the rice price cap affected the Pulse Asia Survey results, which showed President Marcos’s approval rating declined in September. “I cannot comment on that one,” he said. “What I can say is that our President is truly committed to serving everyone. I believe he is the President for all, not just for the farmers but also for the consumers.” Panganiban also praised Marcos for his engagement with the public, saying that the President is the first one to really meet with the people and participate in rice distribution. “So, I think people can sense our President and his plans and programs. Hopefully, we can reciprocate that. Even for the media, I hope you can help us promote the good news, not just our problems but also what we are doing for our fellow countrymen,” he added. The post No new chief yet — Agri exec appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Understanding the silent threat
Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, another deadly virus has emerged globally, casting a shadow of fear and concern. The Nipah virus, often overshadowed by its more notorious counterparts, has garnered attention due to its alarming fatality rate and potential for large-scale outbreaks. First identified in 1999, when it caused an outbreak in Malaysia and Singapore, the virus was named after the village of Sungai Nipah in Malaysia, where it was initially discovered. It primarily affects both animals and humans. The primary mode of transmission of the Nipah virus is through direct contact with infected bats or their contaminated excretions, such as saliva or urine. Human-to-human transmission is also possible through close contact with infected individuals’ respiratory secretions or bodily fluids. The virus can be transmitted through contaminated fruits, particularly date palm sap, which has been a common source of outbreaks in South Asia. Nipah virus infection can manifest as a range of clinical presentations, from asymptomatic or mild flu-like symptoms to severe encephalitis. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, dizziness, and nausea, making diagnosis challenging in the initial stages. Patients can develop severe respiratory issues and neurological symptoms as the disease progresses, leading to coma and death. Alarmingly, Nipah virus infections have been known to have fatality rates ranging from 40 percent to 75 percent, significantly higher than Covid-19. Nipah virus outbreaks have predominantly occurred in South and Southeast Asia, particularly in Bangladesh, India, and Malaysia. These regions are home to fruit bats, the natural reservoir of the virus. While sporadic outbreaks have been reported, the virus’s potential for human-to-human transmission poses a serious public health threat. It’s crucial to understand that comparing the Nipah virus to Covid-19 is not a matter of declaring one deadlier. These viruses differ significantly in transmission, scale, and global impact. However, it is essential to highlight the unique challenges posed by Nipah virus outbreaks. As mentioned earlier, the Nipah virus has a significantly higher fatality rate than Covid-19. While Covid-19 has caused immense suffering and loss of life globally due to its wide transmission, Nipah virus outbreaks are associated with higher mortality rates among those infected, making it a deadlier prospect for affected communities. Nipah is primarily spread through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials, limiting its potential for a pandemic on the scale of Covid-19. However, the virus’ high fatality rate and human-to-human transmission potential make it a concerning localized threat. Covid-19 has led to unprecedented global efforts to contain its spread, including the development of vaccines in record time. In contrast, Nipah has received less attention and funding, which raises concerns about the world’s preparedness to respond effectively to potential outbreaks. Given the potential severity of Nipah virus outbreaks, it is crucial to take proactive measures to prevent and control its spread. Although infectious diseases expert Dr. Rontgene Solante, who is also the president of the Philippine College of Physicians, has said that there is nothing to fear about the zoonotic disease, establishing a robust surveillance system to monitor potential outbreaks is essential. Early detection allows for the swift isolation of infected individuals and the implementation of public health measures. Raising public awareness of the risks associated with handling bats or consuming date palm sap without proper precautions can also reduce the chances of transmission. While no licensed vaccines are available yet, progress in this area could significantly improve our ability to combat the virus. The Nipah virus may not be capturing global headlines like Covid-19, but its potential for devastation cannot be underestimated. With a high fatality rate and the ability to spread from person to person, potential Nipah virus outbreaks demand our attention and preparedness. While Covid-19 has dominated our lives for the past few years, we must remain vigilant and proactive to understand and combat other deadly infectious diseases like the Nipah virus. The lessons we have learned from the Covid-19 pandemic can help us respond more effectively to future health threats, whether known or yet to be discovered. The post Understanding the silent threat appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UAE agri, energy, banking deals eyed
The Department of Finance, or DoF, on Wednesday said United Arab Emirates or UAE-based firms are keen on exploring investments in a range of industries in the Philippines, including food, water management, renewable energy, and Islamic banking. DoF said the economic team talked to executives of Brevan Howard, a technology-driven investment management platform; Arqaam Capital, a financial firm for emerging markets; and Investment Corporation of Dubai, the Dubai Government’s principal investment arm for the possible foreign investments. “The companies expressed interest in the Philippines’ renewable energy projects, port operations, water and wastewater management, waste-to-energy projects, upcoming Sukuk bond issuances, Islamic banking, and the Maharlika Investment Fund,” DoF said in a statement to the media. Middle East roadshow Investment and trade discussions surfaced during the Philippine economic team’s investor briefing in the UAE, a seven-state federation, from 11 to 12 September. The finance department said the possible foreign investments affirm the need for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement or CEPA with the UAE aimed at easing and expanding trade between the two countries. DoF said the UAE Government and the Philippines have already signed an agreement for investment protection and collaboration as part of the ongoing negotiations over CEPA. It added the UAE will soon submit to the Philippines its template for the final document on CEPA. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he aims to adopt foreign water technologies, such as hydroelectric power plants, irrigation canals, and diversion dams to store and distribute more water for households, commercial establishments, and farm irrigation amid the threats of climate change. Food exports to Dubai usually include pineapples, bananas, and fresh and processed fish amounting to over $30 million. For renewable energy, the Department of Energy aims to generate power capacity of at least 20,000 megawatts through a mix of sources, such as the sun, wind and geothermal. Meanwhile, National Treasurer Rosalia de Leon said the Philippines is entering the Islamic debt market by issuing Sukuk bonds, or Islamic bonds, in the fourth quarter this year or early next year to raise $1 billion. “Sukuk bonds will diversify the Philippines’ sources of financing, widen its investor base to reach the untapped Islamic finance market, and boost investments in physical and digital connectivity,” she said. The Islamic bonds offer investors a share of profits from projects financed by the debt instrument instead of interest payments from traditional bonds. The government aims to raise $5 billion from commercial borrowing and already acquired $3 billion in January. The post UAE agri, energy, banking deals eyed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Nurturing agri growth: Marcos’ birthday wish
More people wish a head of State a happy birthday than typical, as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will find as he celebrates his 66th birthday today. Wishes for good health and happiness and the success and accomplishment of all his commitments and obligations throughout his administration have flooded in. Before he spends his birthday in Singapore today, attending a summit and the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix, Marcos expressed his wish for an improved agriculture sector. In an interview with reporters, Marcos said he wants the sector to be more productive and resilient to climate change. He also expressed his wish for the government to understand the weather better so it could better help farmers. “(My birthday wish is) for (the) agriculture (sector) to improve and for us to know the real weather, whether it’s the wet season or dry season, so that we can help our farmers. That’s still my prayer up to now,” Marcos said. Marcos issued Executive Order 39, imposing a price cap on rice to control the soaring prices. He also gave the responsible government agencies the job of reducing the number of agricultural hoarders and smugglers. But he considers the “best” birthday gift the issuance of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 11953, or the New Agrarian Reform Emancipation Act. “As we chart a path towards a more self-sufficient and equitable Philippines, this administration reaffirms its commitment to enrich the lives of our farmers, ensure the rapid industrialization of our farmlands, and promote sustainable and inclusive growth in the countryside,” he said. He visited the Department of Agrarian Reform office in Quezon City to attend the release of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the New Agrarian Emancipation Act and to sign the Executive Order extending the moratorium on the repayment of agricultural debts of farmer-beneficiaries. At the event, Daily Tribune asked government officials to present their birthday wishes for Marcos, who concurrently heads the Department of Agriculture. “May God give President Marcos Jr. good health and more wisdom as he leads our country to a brighter future,” said one senior presidential protocol officer. Amid the good wishes, others turned the President’s birthday celebration into a platform to remind him of the pressing matters he must address as the land’s highest official. “I am hoping for more fruitful years to come with Marcos’s administration, especially in easing the plight of the poor people and our (economic) situation,” one DAR employee said. Economic vision for the future As Marcos celebrates another year of life, he continues to chart his vision for the future of the Philippines. One key aspect of this vision is economic development. He has advocated for policies to spur economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction. His focus on economic issues resonates with many Filipinos who prioritize financial stability and opportunities for their families. In October last year, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said that Marcos’s performance in his first 100 days in office was commendable. Zubiri lauded the President’s choice of Cabinet members, particularly his economic team. He also noted the frequent Cabinet meetings called by the President, which he deemed a positive practice. Best Phl salesman The President, he said, is the “best salesman” for the Philippines, sending signals to investors that the Philippines is open for business and investment. For context, the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that approved foreign investment pledges grew by 27.8 percent in the year’s second quarter. The PSA data released on Tuesday showed that total foreign investments approved by investment promotion agencies during the period amounted to P59.09 billion from P46.26 billion FI in the same quarter of 2022. Vision for agriculture Marcos has made agriculture one of the top priorities of his administration. His extension of the moratorium on farmers’ repayment of their agrarian debts by two years has benefited them as they don’t have to make payments until 13 September 2025. “I have just signed an Executive Order for the two-year extension of EO 4, 2023, because other beneficiaries were not covered when the IRR was introduced and when we implemented the original EO’s moratorium,” Marcos said. While acknowledging these achievements, engaging in a broader discussion of his presidency is essential, recognizing both the positive strides and the challenges faced during his time in office. As with any political figure, President Marcos’ legacy is complex and multifaceted. The post Nurturing agri growth: Marcos’ birthday wish appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
House to stabilize prices of rice, onions
The House of Representatives has vowed to mobilize efforts to lower the prices of rice and onions in light of the recent reports that the commodities are subject anew to hoarding and price manipulation. Driven by a high satisfaction rating from a recent poll, House Speaker Martin Romualdez said on Sunday that "the House would remain focused on stabilizing the prices of rice, onions, and other staples" to assist Filipinos, particularly retailers, small traders, and market stallholders, who were at receiving ends of the soaring prices of the said commodities. "Needless to say, if there is enough supply, we would not be having problems with prices," Romualez said. Previously, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. imposed a rice price ceiling via Executive Order 39, which sets the price of regularly milled rice to P41 while P45 for well-milled rice. The price cap took effect on 5 September. Marcos imposed the directive to ensure a reasonable price of rice amid the current surge in its retail prices in the Philippines, "which resulted in a considerable economic strain on Filipinos, particularly the underprivileged and marginalized." Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga, chairperson of the House committee on agriculture and food, said the President's move of imposing a price cap on rice, complemented by a series of warehouse inspections on suspected rice hoarders by authorities along with members of the House has contributed to the stabilization of rice despite uncertainties prevailing in the global market. Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, an economist and chairman of the House committee on ways and means, meanwhile, believes that the EO 39 ended the price spike of the staple grain in the Philippine market. "It is now clear that soaring cost of the grain is artificial, driven by market speculation and rice traders driven by greed. Now, we have to manage our rice inventory better to avoid fueling the speculation here and in the global rice market," Salceda stressed. According to Salceda, Marcos' intervention and Congress' assistance are a "testament to their ability" to navigate complex economic terrains as the global market shifted following the imposition of EO 39. "It highlights the Philippines' capacity to influence and contribute positively to international food markets," Salceda pointed out. The Department of Agriculture, headed by Marcos himself, earlier denied reports of a rice shortage in the country even as the price of the staple grain ranged from P42 to P60 per kilo, way higher than the government's "aspiration" of P20 per kilo. In light of the woes linked to the staple grain, Agri Partylist Rep. Wilbert Lee filed House Bill 9020, or the proposed "Cheaper Rice Act," to help alleviate the financial strain on consumers while making rice production profitable for 2.6 million rice farmers through a subsidy program. Under the bill, the DA, in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry and other relevant government agencies, will establish a subsidy program to incentivize rice farmers to augment their production by enabling them to sell palay at a higher price. The post House to stabilize prices of rice, onions appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
P130.2-M infra damage, P1B agri losses as ‘Hanna’ exits PHL
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council on Monday reported more than P130.25 million worth of damage to infrastructure due to the southwest monsoon enhanced by Super Typhoon "Goring" and Typhoon "Hanna", affecting a total of 140,101 families or 514,153 persons. In its latest situation report, the NDRRMC accounted for a total of 502 damaged houses in the Ilocos region, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas and CAR, with 24 roads and nine bridges remaining impassable. Three areas are still experiencing power interruption while one still has no water supply. Some 79 seaports have canceled operations in Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, and Western Visayas amid the continuing inclement weather, while 26 passengers are still stranded in Western Visayas. Authorities said all affected domestic flights have already resumed operations. Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture reported that the amount of damage and losses to crops and other agricultural products has reached P1.07 billion from P898.4 million in the previous days. The DA recorded a production loss of 46,811 metric tons, affecting 42,333 hectares of agricultural land and 31,060 farmers as consolidated from Calabarzon, Western Visayas and Mimaropa reports. The affected commodities include rice, corn, high-value crops, livestock and poultry. Typhoon Hanna exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Monday morning. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said Hanna will continue to enhance the southwest monsoon or habagat while outside PAR. Habagat will bring occasional to monsoon rains over the western portion of Luzon in the next three days. Hanna will slowly move west-northwestward over the Taiwan Strait while gradually weakening. It is forecast to make landfall over the coast of Guangdong or Fujian, China tomorrow morning or afternoon as a severe tropical storm. PAGASA said rapid weakening will ensue as the tropical cyclone moves further inland over Guangdong, China. It added Hanna is set to become a remnant low on late Wednesday or Thursday. The post P130.2-M infra damage, P1B agri losses as ‘Hanna’ exits PHL appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tariffs tweak must favor majority — MAP
The Management Association of the Philippines on Tuesday called on the government if it is indeed serious about adjusting the current tariff structure, saying that it should be for the common good of all Filipinos. The call, given to the members of the media through a position paper, was amid the ongoing move by the Tariff Commission and the National Economic and Development Authority or NEDA to review and reform the tariff structure of the Philippines. With this, MAP said NEDA and TC should be mindful that the adjustment should support food security for Filipinos, especially accessibility and affordability of competitively priced food, via low tariffs on food products. Also, the position paper, signed by MAP president, Atty. Benedicta Du-Baladad, said the tariff development should strengthen sustainable agri-food value chains, especially domestic agricultural value-adding enterprises including processing, storage, and logistics, through a rational tariff structure where rates on inputs do not exceed those on finished products. Distortions and unwarranted protection arising from tariff peaks, currently seen primarily in agricultural products, should be avoided. The changes also seek to cut incentives and reduce opportunities for corruption and smuggling by unifying Minimum Access Volume or MAV and non-MAV tariff rates, and keeping tariffs relatively low and uniform across all goods (with a maximum 10 percent to 15 percent) to keep food prices affordable, especially to the poor. High prices fuel poverty “Filipino families have historically been burdened with high food prices than consumers in other countries across ASEAN and beyond. The burden is worsened by relatively lower incomes, the bulk of which must be spent on food because prices are higher than elsewhere. Worse, lower-income families are forced to purchase food products of low nutritional value, leading to a worsening vicious cycle of poverty, hunger, and poor nutrition, lowered human capacity, hence persistent and further deepening poverty,” the paper reads. Despite this, the MAP said tariffs on agricultural and food commodities are higher than those applied to goods in general, as the TC reports that the simple average of tariffs applied on agricultural products is 12 percent, while the average for all products is 8 percent. “Trade-weighted averages show the same pattern, with 9 percent for agriculture, nearly double that for all goods at 5 percent. Agricultural tariffs have remained high because these have been generally excluded from tariff adjustments over the past decades, with agricultural products deemed ‘sensitive’ levied the highest statutory rates of up to 65 percent,” the group explained. In 2015, two-thirds or 66 percent of Philippine agricultural output by value was shielded from foreign competition by Most Favored Nation tariffs of 40 percent or more. “The 2018 Philippines Trade Policy Review, jointly undertaken by the government and the World Trade Organization, showed majority of commodities have MFN tariffs ranging from zero to 20 percent. However, about 6 percent of lines have tariffs significantly above 20 percent, reaching up to 65 percent,” the group explained. The post Tariffs tweak must favor majority — MAP appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DA studies Taiwan-inspired agribiz proposals
The Department of Agriculture is hoping to adopt Taiwan’s agricultural technologies such as data analysis and mobile applications. In a statement on Friday, DA said officials will be reviewing business proposals from 47 agri-entrepreneurs who recently completed the Filipino Young Farmers Internship Program in Taiwan and returned to the Philippines on 14 July. The program ran for 11 months and was created through the partnership of DA-Agricultural Training Institute, Manila Economic and Cultural Office, and Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office. “Youth involvement in the agriculture sector is highly important as we are facing the challenge of an aging farmer population. Having completed their international internship program, we believe that they are now prepared to take the next level of their training,” ATI Director Remelyn R. Recoter said. Through a planning workshop, the young agri-entrepreneurs were required to write agribusiness proposals on agricultural and fisheries techniques, marketing strategies, and management practices. Recoter said this will also help the youth apply for new foreign internships in the future. Since 2017, Taiwan has been implementing smart agriculture with the use of sensors, the internet, mobile applications, robotics and artificial intelligence to boost its agricultural production amid a faster aging population. Global data show that half of the population of Taiwan are aged 40 and older; meanwhile, in the Philippines half of total population are 25 years old and younger. Taiwan’s Council for Agriculture is advancing the aforementioned technologies for greenhouse farms where plants are protected from the harmful effects of the sun and rain, resulting in stable production levels year-round. Philippine agricultural exports decreased by 20.8 percent to $1.55 billion in the first quarter this year from $1.95 billion in the same period last year, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. The post DA studies Taiwan-inspired agribiz proposals appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM prioritizes development of Phl Agri land
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday reiterated the government’s resolve to prioritize the country’s investments in "development, productivity, and modernization" in the agricultural sector. In his supposed speech for the commemoration of the 36th Cordillera Day, Marcos emphasized the importance of creating huge opportunities for the development of agricultural lands in the country. “As President and concurrent Agriculture Secretary, I am relentlessly pushing and prioritizing the development of our agricultural lands. I cannot emphasize it enough, but we really need to invest in the development, productivity, and modernization of our agricultural sector,” Marcos said, as delivered by Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon Assistant Secretary Ana Carmela Remigio, during the anniversary event in Luna, Apayao. Marcos sees that such effort would not only increase crop yield for the farmers “but will also create a ripple effect” in the country’s economy. “By building infrastructure and improving market linkages of our farmers, our farmlands will yield not only crops, but also opportunities that create ripples of positive effects throughout our nation,” he added. Marcos was not able to physically attend the scheduled event due to the cancellation of his Apayao province amid the inclement weather. He, however, sent his message for the anniversary event—urging the public “to continue supporting the government’s pursuit of a better, brighter and more productive life for everyone” Marcos emphasized that his administration will continue pushing for a quality life for Filipinos. The President also lauded the Cordillerans for winning over many challenges throughout the years of their autonomy. He urged them to celebrate with “pride and vigor the solidarity, dynamism, and camaraderie among themselves.” “Please allow me to take this opportunity to once again express my utmost gratitude for the overwhelming support you gave me during last year’s national elections. The trust that you have given motivates me to keep going and serve you with passion, strength, and purpose,” Marcos said. Marcos likewise encouraged the Cordillera residents to continue supporting various government projects including the laying down of fiber optic cables to improve the communications and access to the internet in the region. “Support the programs of the Regional Development Council of the Cordillera Administrative Region, which are geared towards inclusive development without destroying the region’s natural heritage,” he said. “The Cordilleras’ potential in terms of hydropower, irrigation, and agriculture is vast and should continue to be tapped for the benefit of all,” he added. Lastly, Marcos assured the Cordillerans that his administration is committed to working hard for the progress of their region. The post PBBM prioritizes development of Phl Agri land appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Condoning farmers’ debts lauded
A solon on Wednesday lauded the administration for approving the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, which would help farmers focus on farming. Agri Partylist Representative Wilbert Lee, the law’s principal author, during the Laging Handa Public Briefing, said condoning the debts would allow farmers to focus on farming and increase production. “This is the goal of our President, to increase agricultural production so that we can achieve the desired food security and sufficiency,” Lee said. The law also waives the estate taxes on the land owned by farmers. However, there are conditions imposed. The farmers cannot sell or transfer the land to others for 10 years, except to their children or legal heirs in the event of their death. They cannot convert the land to other uses except agriculture or farming for 20 years. The law also prohibits a land transfer to wealthy landowners for commercial use after 10 years. The Register of Deeds will not be able to transfer the land until the DAR issues a clearance or DAR Exemption Certificate. Lee said the new law will help food security and reduce rice imports. “With the passage of this new Emancipation Act, we will have an additional one million hectares for farming or to increase our production,” Lee said. He said the government should now prioritize irrigation and the welfare of farmers amid the threat of El Niño. “We know that El Niño occurs every seven years, every few years it comes to us. We are already experiencing the beginning of it this year,” Lee said. “We are also coordinating with our farmers to use drought-resistant seeds. We are promoting the use of these seeds because they are more tolerant to heat and they are drought-tolerant resistance seeds,” he added. The post Condoning farmers’ debts lauded appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go bats for better fire prevention, sends aid to Parañaque fire victims
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go remains committed to help Filipinos affected by crisis situations as he sent his team to assist fire victims residing in Barangays La Huerta and San Dionisio in Parañaque City on Friday, 9 June. Go’s team held the relief activity at Villanueva Village Basketball Court and distributed grocery packs, snacks, vitamins, shirts and masks to a total of 76 affected households. The senator's personnel also gave away shoes and mobile phones to select recipients. Aside from the senator’s team, a team from the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance to further help the victims recover from the damage caused by the fire incident. Through his video message, Go maintained that the government continues to prioritize better fire prevention efforts as the Bureau of Fire Protection is currently undergoing a modernization program, following the enactment of Republic Act No. 11589 in 2021. The BFP Modernization Act, which was primarily authored and co-sponsored by Go, mandates the agency to undergo a 10-year modernization program to transform the bureau into a world-class institution that would significantly improve its capability to respond to fire-related incidents by recruiting more firefighters, acquiring new fire equipment and developing specialized training, among others. “Sa pag-iikot ko ng bansa para makatulong sa mga nasunugan, nakita ko po talaga ang importansya ng pagpapalakas ng ating fire prevention campaigns. Kaya naman nagpapasalamat ako sa dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa pag-apruba ng BFP Modernization Act para mas lalo pang lumakas ang kapasidad ng ahensya,” expressed Go. “Sa mga nasunugan naman po, alam ko pong napakahirap ng panahon ngayon at kayo po ay nasunugan pa pero huwag po kayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Ang pera naman po ay kikitain pero ang pera ay hindi po nabibili ang buhay. A lost life is a lost life forever. Kaya mag-ingat po tayo palagi,” he reminded. Go then offered additional assistance to any resident in need of medical care as he encouraged them to seek the services of the Malasakit Center located at Ospital ng Parañaque. After he witnessed the struggles of financially disadvantaged Filipinos in settling their medical expenses, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 and was institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463 in 2019, which he principally authored and sponsored. The center houses relevant agencies where patients can conveniently avail medical assistance programs, such as DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. There are now 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide. Go likewise mentioned that Super Health Centers will be strategically located in the city as identified by the DOH, including two in different barangays. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The DOH, as the lead implementing agency, identifies strategic areas where these centers will be built. Services offered in Super Health Centers include database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Aside from the assistance provided, Go, who is Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported several initiatives in the city to ensure its progress amid crisis situations. Among the projects are the rehabilitation and construction of several multipurpose buildings, rehabilitation of drainage in Brgy. Don Bosco, improvement of the Parañaque River Promenade Bridge and acquisition of an ambulance unit. Last 2 June, Go’s team also assisted more fire victims in the city. The post Bong Go bats for better fire prevention, sends aid to Parañaque fire victims appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos bats for new agri technologies
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said the national government intends to use emerging technologies in the field of agriculture to entice young individuals to engage in agribusiness and farming. In an interview after attending the Rice Industry Convergence Meeting in Quezon City, Marcos underscored the need to introduce new ideas and implement mechanized systems in farming as a means of attracting the youth to the agricultural sector. “These are the types of matters that we were discussing. Additionally, digitalization is essential to provide accurate data to our farmers, particularly to the farmer leaders in cooperatives,” Marcos said. “We also talked about reducing the average age of Filipino farmers by introducing new technologies. To achieve this, we involve them in utilizing these new technological systems, as they will be the ones operating them. This will create an appealing environment for young individuals to enter the agricultural sector,” he added. Marcos earlier approved the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program aimed at achieving the highest possible rice sufficiency level by implementing several strategies. Marcos, who also serves as the Agriculture secretary, said that aside from improving the country’s agricultural production, ensuring the welfare of Filipino farmers must also be prioritized. “We are doing this not only to feed the entire Philippines but also to improve the lives of our farmers, to give them a decent life and to provide an education for their children,” he said. “They have the possibility to expand, to go into other economic activities, sa agriculture or not. But to give them more opportunities. That’s the whole point. As much as possible, we will support the farmers,” he added. The post Marcos bats for new agri technologies appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go’s team assists fire victims in Bukidnon
Senator Bong Go remains focused on safeguarding the well-being of Filipinos amid crisis situations as he sent his team to bring support to fire victims from Maramag, Manolo Fortich, Valencia City, and Malaybalay City in Bukidnon on Tuesday, 18 April. The senator’s team conducted the relief operations at the respective town and city halls where they distributed grocery packs, shirts, masks, vitamins, and snacks to a total of 54 fire victims while representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development provided financial assistance to further help with their recovery. Go’s team also gave away shoes, caps, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. “Mga kababayan ko, huwag po kayong magpasalamat sa akin o sa amin. Kami po ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo dahil kami po’y mga probinsyano lamang na binigyan n’yo po ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo po sa inyo,” expressed Go in a video message. The senator continued that the government remains committed to prioritizing better fire response and preparedness following the enactment of Republic Act No. 11589 or the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act that would strengthen the firefighting capability of the agency. As mandated by the Act, which Go primarily authored and co-sponsored, the bureau undergoes a ten-year modernization program, which includes acquiring new modern fire equipment, hiring additional personnel, and providing specialized training for firefighters, among others. Go, who serves as the head of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, offered medical assistance to those with health concerns. He advised them to seek the services of the Malasakit Center at Bukidnon Provincial Hospital in Maramag. There are also nearby centers at Northern Mindanao Medical Center and at J.R. Borja General Hospital in Cagayan de Oro City. In addition, Go also supported the funding for the establishment of Super Health Centers for 2022 in Malaybalay City and the towns of Kadingilan, Sumilao, Kitaotao, and Pangantucan — which he visited last March. This year, more Super Health Centers were funded for the towns of Kalilangan, Manolo Fortich, Maramag, Quezon, San Fernando, and Talakag. Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported several initiatives in the province to ensure unhampered service continues. Among the projects is the funding for the construction of an evacuation center, municipal building, and local access road as well as an electrification and solar lights project in Damulog; and the construction of a slaughterhouse, multipurpose building, and the Northern Bukidnon Agri-Industrial Economic Zone Road Network and Southern Bukidnon Agri-Industrial Economic Zone road network development projects in Don Carlos. Moreover, he helped the province in the improvement of road links in Baungon, Libona, and Talakag; access road leading to the Bukidnon Airport; farm-to-market and local roads in Cabanglasan, Kadingilan, Kibawe, Kitaotao, Lantapan, San Fernando and Talakag; and other road linkages throughout the province. The post Bong Go’s team assists fire victims in Bukidnon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sugar regulator chief quits
Agri group bucks sale of smuggled sugar Administrator David John Thaddeus Alba of the Sugar Regulatory Administration has resigned amid the controversial importation of 440,000 metric tons of sugar......»»
Solon bats for scholarship program for agri education
MANILA - A party-list lawmaker on Thursday pushed for the passage of a measure seeking to incentivize students who take up agriculture and other related courses by providing them with scholarships, allowances, and other assistance.Agri Rep. Wilbert Lee said House Bill 1295 aims to boost enro.....»»
PH boosts interventions on supply sufficiency, agri productivity
MANILA - The Philippine government is committed to ensuring a stable food supply and mitigating the impact of rising commodity prices amid the global energy crisis, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said.As reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority.....»»
Agri modernization key to prepare PH for dark clouds
MANILA - A lawmaker on Wednesday stressed the need for agricultural modernization as "crisis-proofing" for the Philippines amid the looming global economic downturn due to the tightening US monetary policy to curtail inflation.In a keynote address at a convocation in the University of the Ph.....»»
DA urges UN to ensure open Agri trade amid inflation
MANILA - Following earlier warnings of the "looming global food crisis" as well as the continuing global inflation, the Department of Agriculture (DA) on Tuesdayurged the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (UN-FAO) to push for sustained worldwide market trades for agricultural produc.....»»