Bambol proposes P510 million additional budget for elite sports
By Kristel Satumbaga Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President and Tagaytay City Rep. Bambol Tolentino sought an additional P510 million budget for the elite sports for 2021 believing the country has a potential of winning multiple medals at the rescheduled Tokyo Games. “Tokyo could be that host city where the […].....»»
Senate to reallocate CIFs to agencies engaged in WPS patrol too — Zubiri
The Senate on Wednesday mimicked the House of Representatives’ plan to reallocate confidential and intelligence funds to government agencies involved in protecting the country’s sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea such as the Philippine Coast Guard and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. According to Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, senators have agreed to follow the same path the lower chamber has taken regarding the controversial allocation of secret funds to non-security and defense agencies in the upcoming fiscal year. Zubiri said the “intelligence community” would also receive additional secret funds. “We have agreed in the Senate to do the same. We also will [be] reallocating funds that we feel are not necessary for the use of certain agencies and allocate them to our Intelligence Community as well as our Coast Guard and AFP,” he said in a Viber message sent to reporters. The decision came after various political party leaders in the lower chamber issued a joint statement to push the redirection of secret funds to agencies in charge of intelligence and security amid China’s latest actions in the West Philippine Sea. Citing China’s moves which include the installation of the floating barrier in Scarborough Shoal, political party leaders sought the allocation of more secret funds for the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, the National Security Council, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. “Recognizing the rising security threats in the West Philippine Sea and the need to secure top officials, these agencies are better positioned to counteract security threats, protect our territorial waters, and secure the rights and access of Filipino fishermen to traditional fishing grounds,” the joint statement read. "This decision also underscores the need to ensure that resource allocation aligns with national priorities and the urgent needs of the citizenry, reflecting our commitment to a budget that is balanced, equitable, and serves the true needs and aspirations of the Filipino people,” it added. The joint statement was signed by Rizal Rep. Michael John Duavit of the Nationalist Peoples Coalition, Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel of the PDP Laban, Agusan del Norte 1st District Rep. Jose Joboy Aquino of the Lakas CMD, BHW Party List Rep. Angelica Natasha Co of the Party List Coalition, Romblon Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona of the Nacionalista Party, and Camarines Sur 2nd District Rep. LRay Villafuerte of the National Unity Party. How about OVP, DepEd? Zubiri was asked if the same thing would happen to the secret funds allocated to the offices headed by Vice President Sara Duterte. “We shall review all agencies,” he simply replied. Duterte, who heads the OVP and Department of Education, is requesting a total of P650 million worth of confidential funds for the two agencies, P500 million and P150 million, respectively. Under the proposed P.768-trillion National Expenditure Program for next year, a total of P9.2 billion was allocated for confidential and intelligence funds of government agencies and offices. The post Senate to reallocate CIFs to agencies engaged in WPS patrol too — Zubiri appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR still wants P13M in confidential funds, despite not using it
Despite unutilized confidential funds amounting to over P13 million this year, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources maintained it will retain an additional P13 million in confidential funds for 2024. Lawmaker Jose Alvarez of Palawan, the DENR's budget sponsor, contended before the House of Representatives that the agency will not forego next year's confidential funds, which, according to Kabataan Partylist Rep. Raoul Manuel, amounts to P13 million. In 2023, the DENR had P13.95 million in confidential funds, which Alvarez disclosed remained unutilized. "So far, Mr. Speaker, our new secretary has not used a single cent of the confidential funds," the sponsor said. Manuel proposed it would be best that the DENR refrain from using the unutilized CIF and that the agency instead foster tighter coordination with law enforcement units as an alternative approach. "That would justify confidential funds, Mr. Speaker," he said. Manuel then suggested that if the DENR survived and operated without relying on the secret fund, it must forego next year's CF. Notwithstanding the lack of utilization, Alvarez asserted that the CF sought by the DENR next would allow the agency to effectively carry out its mandate and operations. "Mr. Speaker, your Honor, no. They need that. They need. And if so spent, I will ask them how they spent it with the report to [the] CoA (Commission on Audit). And I will give a copy to our Honorable Manuel," Alvarez said. "DENR's confidential funds are small. It is used in the buying of information regarding the number one illegal logging, or everything illegal. That's what is being reported and gets paid. That has no receipt. If that's what you're referring to, Mr. Speaker. That whether there is a receipt or not," he said. Citing COA-DBM (Department of Budget and Management) Joint Circular 2015-01, Manuel said the DENT could opt to submit documentary proof, such as a voucher or invoice to substantiate the utilization of funds. According to Manuel, failure of the DENR to submit a receipt for using the CIF may potentially have detrimental consequences to the government. "The important thing, Mr. Speaker, is that every expenditure must have proof of where it was spent. There can't be anything. If it is not a receipt, other alternatives will prove where it is actually used," Manuel said. The post DENR still wants P13M in confidential funds, despite not using it 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 to grant NIA request for P40 billion additional budget
The House of Representatives will grant the request of the National Irrigation Authority for additional funding amounting to P40 billion to finance its irrigation projects, Speaker Martin Romualdez said yesterday.....»»
Up to 2M reservists eyed once ROTC becomes mandatory
There could be about two million reservists who will be able to augment the reserve force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines every year if the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps becomes mandatory again. This was bared by Major General Joel Alejandro Nacnac, Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservists and Retiree Affairs of the AFP, over the weekend during the opening of the National Reservists Week. “Every year, if ROTC becomes mandatory, we expect an additional two million students from all of the universities,” Nacnac told the reporters in an interview. He said projected servicemen from ROTC will be classified as a “standby reserve”—which is mobilized only in times of national emergency or war. The AFP reserve force is currently at 1.2 million as of June 2023, which is composed of over 71,000 “ready reservists,” more than 15,000 affiliated units from other organizations and institutions, and 1.1 million standby reservists—with most of them from the Philippine Army. The ready reservists are called at “any time to add to the regular forces.” The National Reservist Week is the AFP’s annual activity of the “purposely to widen the Reserve Force manpower build-up and for the existing reservists to be accounted.” The event also provides reservists an update on the current AFP policies and directives with regard to the Reserve Force Development Programs as well as establish a robust operational Reserve force by way of checking their individual readiness in order to provide support to the Regular Force to fulfill its mandate. The bill requiring ROTC for students enrolled in at least two years of an undergraduate degree is pending in the Senate plenary. On the other hand, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa the government may allot P4.2 billion for free uniforms yearly if the proposed mandatory ROTC program becomes law. “If it will materialize, every year we’re going to budget P4.2B for uniforms alone for cadets,” he said in a recent hearing on the budget of the Department of Science and Technology and its attached agencies. Dela Rosa also made a recommendation that ROTC uniforms should be locally sourced. The Philippine Textile Research Institute welcomed the senator’s suggestion. The post Up to 2M reservists eyed once ROTC becomes mandatory appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Repossession of idle SBMA land backed
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito lauded Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Jonathan Tan for his efforts to repossess land underutilized by locators. Ejercito presided over a remote hearing of the Senate Finance Committee on the SBMA with the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan, the Philippine Center for Economic Development, and the Philippine Racing Commission. The senator lauded Tan for auditing the companies that had failed to pay their taxes or had not developed their properties, leaving the land idle. “I’m in and out there; I usually have breakfast, and ride my bike there. I can see idle lands and facilities that are going bad; what a waste,” he said, mainly in Filipino. The SBMA has repossessed 10 parcels of unused land, with 20 more lined up for repossession. Tan said the agency is conducting audits to ensure business vibrancy at the freeport. “That’s a good start on your incumbency, so hopefully you can turn Subic around again. Make it more vibrant again. It should be a prime destination, like way back in the 1990s. Subic Bay is really the place to go,” Ejercito said. The SBMA presented to the Senate committee its 2024 proposed projects, for which the Department of Budget and Management had allocated P661 million intended for road, port, maritime, and traffic control rehabilitation. Senior Deputy Administrator for Support Services Atty. Ramon Agregado asked the Senate for an additional budget of P936 million for future projects of the SBMA, including the construction of a smart city. Agregado said the additional funding will also be used to improve various aircraft movement area visual guides and auxiliaries at Subic Bay International Airport. “We’ll try to scrutinize the additional P936 million you requested,” Ejercito said. The post Repossession of idle SBMA land backed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Paying tribute to Criselda, Rustan’s bestselling iconic fashion designer
In her lifetime, Criselda Lontok epitomized the kind of woman for whom the legendary Glecy Rustia Tantoco established her home-based establishment that would grow into the country’s foremost luxury department store. No wonder that the Rustan’s Department Store founder, known for her keen understanding of the ladies of Manila’s 400, offered to Criselda, one of Manila’s most beautiful women and smartest dressers, a beauty queen and a fashion model, an exclusive line intended for her kind. Criselda, who had served initially as a buyer and merchandiser, and spearheaded a number of homegrown Italian-inspired Rustan’s labels, accepted the challenge, keeping in mind her friends and acquaintances, the quintessential upper-class Filipina — fashionable, committed to philanthropic and civic causes, herself engaged in an enterprise or a profession that fits her colegiala or finishing school education and, of course, prominent and socially-adept. Having seen the world and constantly on the go in the jet-setting era, these women, like Criselda herself, knew the best of foreign brands and were accustomed to wearing them. [caption id="attachment_186354" align="aligncenter" width="1365"] JOHN Fernandez, Criselda Lontok’s son. | PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF RUSTANS[/caption] Taking her cue from the composite personality traits of her intended clientele, beautiful people as they were then called, Criselda went on to create dresses that appealed to the ladies’ fine sensibilities anchored on a lifestyle of privilege, comfort, grace and sophisticated aesthetics. Her ingenuity could not have been more apt, as proven by her designs hogging the limelight, the topic of conversation among socialites who finally found the dress that fit them and their style — and becoming the best-seller of Rustan’s. From its beginnings in the early 1980s, the label Criselda went on to grow as among the top offerings and go-to brands of the country’s sole purveyor of high style. And even as Rustan’s aimed for inclusivity to address the needs of professionals and customers who aspired to the good life within their budget, Criselda remained the top choice for those who sought to be attractive and stylish, while being practical and wise in their choices. A Criselda was always a good investment. Through the decades, just like a select few things that get better as they get older, Criselda, the exclusive clothing brand, has transcended fashion trends and social seasons and has maintained its eminent position in the country’s pret-a-porter sector. Criselda’s recent demise might have led to a void, especially in the firmament of Philippine fashion, but her eponymous brand, Criselda, just like her name, has endured. She may be gone but she is remembered, first by her Rustan’s family led by Zenaida R. Tantoco, chief executive officer and chairman of the Rustan Group of Companies, her friends, devoted clientele, and the many others whose lives she touched through her professionalism, kindness, friendliness and warmth, which she generously gave especially to those who came to peruse her creations, mostly cut along classic lines but not sacrificing women’s desire to be chic and trendy. Her career with Rustan’s is a story worth telling as it is inspiring, one that would encourage our young women to pursue their dreams. As a young wife and mother who believed she could contribute to the world out there, Criselda applied for a job at Rustan’s. The grand lady of the number one purveyor of luxury in the country, Glecy R. Tantoco, took her in despite her initial doubts as to whether Criselda, who comes from a good family in Batangas and married into another good family from Laguna, would stick it out despite the rigorous requirements of the job. Glecy Tantoco was known for her insistence on the efficiency of her staff, along with a strong sense of service and an overall image in terms of personal looks and demeanor that defined the Rustan’s style of appropriateness, class and good breeding. [caption id="attachment_186355" align="aligncenter" width="1078"] ERNIE Lopez and Bertha Felicino of Bantay Bata.[/caption] Thankfully, Criselda proved herself worthy, even as she had to deal directly with her tough and no-nonsense boss. In fact, they clicked, as Glecy turned out to be a supportive mentor. Taking Criselda under her wing, she gave her additional responsibilities and assigned her to the forefront when dignitaries and international socialites shopped at Rustan’s. More than the label and the prestige, what Glecy Tantoco gave her were the right work ethic and belief in herself. Criselda remembered her mentor, “GRT (as Glecy was called) was so very hardworking, you just had to be as hardworking, too. I truly admired her foresight. She had the drive. She taught me that I must be sure of myself and only if I was sure should I pursue whatever I wanted to do.” It did not take long for Criselda’s outfits to become a must among Manila’s prominent women who love to wear them not only when attending big parties but also when visiting with friends, shopping at the mall, or relaxing with the family at home. Whether these were day dresses, afternoon outfits, cocktail dresses, or ravishing evening gowns, they lapped them up, happy at the thought of not having to bother with fittings and the encumbrances that went with wearing haute couture. If they wore her creations, it was because they believed her when she spoke to them of fashion sense and carriage and, of course, compatibility with what they wore. She once said, “It is important to consider your age. An 80-year-old woman should not even wear mini skirts...just a little above the knee is permissible but not one that shows her prominent varicose veins and other unsightly parts.” The post Paying tribute to Criselda, Rustan’s bestselling iconic fashion designer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go joins Asian Games send-off; renews advocacy for athletes’ welfare
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go recognized athletes, coaches, and sports officials for their contributions to Philippine sports and their crucial roles in representing the nation on the international stage, during the send-off ceremony on Monday, 18 September, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, for Filipino participants in the 19th Asian Games and 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. “Today, we gather here not only to celebrate the excellence of our athletes but also to bid them the best of luck as they embark on a journey to represent our great nation at the 19th Asian Games and 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China," said Go. Go took the opportunity to shed light on his proposed Senate Bill No. 2116, which aims to amend Republic Act No. 10699, also known as the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act. "This bill which I authored carries the potential to bring about positive change in the lives of our athletes, particularly our para-athletes," he said. Go emphasized the need to increase the incentives for para-athletes, stating, "Sana po’y ma-increase naman rin po ang kanilang incentives na natatanggap dahil ‘yung honor po na dala nila sa ating bayan, pareho naman po ‘yong gold, silver, bronze at pinaghirapan rin po nila." The proposed measures seek to upgrade the incentives for para-athletes. This bill intends to provide equal opportunities and recognition to all athletes, thereby promoting inclusivity and diversity in sports. "The heart of this legislation is inclusivity and equality. It aims to elevate or increase the incentives for our para-athletes," he mentioned. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance said he continues to advocate for additional budget for sports programs under the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC). "During the budget deliberation last year, ang ipinasa po na budget ng PSC more or less about P200 million. Ako po mismo sa Senado bilang inyong chairman po ng Committee on Sports and as vice chair ng Committee on Finance, isinulong ko talaga na madagdagan po ng P1 billion po ang pondo ng Philippine Sports Commission," he said. He revealed that during the budget deliberations last year, he sponsored and successfully secured financial support for athletes participating in international competitions such as the 2023 Southeast Asian Games, which took place in Cambodia, and the forthcoming Asian Games in China. He also disclosed the allocation of P50 million through the PSC for the Asian Games, along with P30 million specifically for Asian para-games. Go also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector in achieving sports excellence. "’Pag nagsama ang gobyerno at pribadong sektor, walang imposible.” Meanwhile, in his speech, the senator also touched on the state of sports facilities in the country, emphasizing the need for comfortable training grounds for athletes. "Ako, sa abot ng aking makakaya ay tutulong po ako sa ating mga sports program ng ating bansa," he assured. In line with his focus on grassroots sports development, Go also spoke about the National Academy of Sports (NAS), a fully operational institution located in New Clark City in Tarlac. "Ngayon po pwede na pong mag-aral at the same time mag-training, training at the same time mag-aral diyan po sa National Academy of Sports," he said. This initiative aims to ensure that athletes do not have to sacrifice their education for their sports careers. Former president Rodrigo Duterte signed RA 11470 in June 2020, which provides for the establishment of the NAS System and its main campus. Go was an author and co-sponsor of the measure. Go is also prioritizing the institutionalization of the Philippine National Games (PNG) as a platform to scout and recruit athletes for the national pool. He filed SBN 423, or the proposed PNG Act, which seeks to create a nationwide platform for athletes, particularly the youth, to display their abilities. During the ambush interview, Go also emphasized the importance of grassroots programs in encouraging youth to engage in sports and lead a healthy lifestyle. "Grassroots program, it's one way na ma-e-engganyo natin ang ating mga kabataan to get into sports, stay away from drugs, and to keep us healthy and fit," he said. He further elaborated on the connection between sports and health, saying, "Malaking bagay na fit tayo. Ang importante rin sa akin bilang chairman ng Senate Committee on Health, dalawa po 'yan. Importante sa akin ang sports at health. Magka-connect ang dalawang ito dahil para sa akin, kapag fit ka, healthy ka. Pangalagaan po natin ang kalusugan ng bawat isa. Katumbas ng kalusugan ay buhay ng bawat Pilipino." Toward the end of his speech, Go expressed his gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his unwavering support for Filipino athletes. "Salamat po mga athletes. And of course, gusto ko rin pong pasalamatan ang suporta po sa atin ng ating mahal na Pangulong Bongbong Marcos sa suporta niya sa SEA Games, sa Asian Games, at sa lahat pa po ng future competition," he said. Go likewise extended his thanks to PSC Chairman Dickie Bachmann, Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham Tolentino, and the Philippine Paralympic Committee President Michael Barredo for their ongoing support and contribution to the athletic community. He likewise thanked the athletes, para-athletes, and coaches for their dedication and sacrifices in training. "Athletes, para-athletes, coaches salamat po sa inyong lahat, sa inyong sakripisyo sa pagte-training. Alam kong ito na po ‘yung panahon na inaantay natin," Go said. As the athletes prepare for their journey to Hangzhou, China, Go assured them of his full support. "To our athletes, I know that we stand with you every step of the way. We believe in your potential, and we are confident that you will make our country proud on the international stage," he concluded. The upcoming Asian Games will be held in Hangzhou, China, from September 23 to October 8. The event was originally scheduled for 2022 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. See more photos here: The post Bong Go joins Asian Games send-off; renews advocacy for athletes’ welfare appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tulfo calls for security of tenure, benefits for PTV 4 employees
Senator Raffy Tulfo on Monday called on the People's Television Network Incorporated, commonly known as PTV 4, to provide security of tenure and additional benefits to its employees. Citing the exemplary role of media in providing accurate and timely information to the public, Tulfo said the PTV 4 also plays an important role in the image-building campaign of the government. However, he lamented that the role of PTV won’t be compensated if the Presidential Communication Office has insufficient budget. Hence, he expressed full support to the PCO’s budget proposal of P1.79 billion, wherein a huge chunk is to be allocated to the PTV 4, a government-owned and controlled corporation, that currently operates under the supervision of the government's communication arm. “The role played by the PCO is important because through the PCO, all the policies, all the things that our government wants to convey to the people come from the PCO and they are disseminated to the public through the government radio and TV, and that includes the PTV 4,” Tulfo said in Filipino. Tulfo said the PTV 4 employees are not well-compensated and lack security of tenure. “When I was at the PTV 4, as anchor/reporter, the situation of the employees there was miserable. They are contractual employees and if you are contractual, anytime you can be terminated because you don’t have security of tenure,” he added. During the budget hearing last year, Tulfo previously promised to support the improvement of facilities and reorganization of the PTV 4. He also called for the regularization and salary increase for PTV4 employees. The post Tulfo calls for security of tenure, benefits for PTV 4 employees appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Solon expects stronger SK programs
Constituents of those who would be elected in the upcoming Sangguniang Kabataan elections could expect stronger and more progressive programs from their respective leaders, according to Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara on Sunday. Angara, who chairs the Senate Committee on Youth, said with the completion of the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 11768 which introduced new reforms to the SK system, the youth sector can expect better performance from their representatives. “Critics of the SK have questioned its relevance and see it as being politicized,” Angara said. “We introduced the amendments to the SK system in RA 11768 in response to these criticisms with the hope that the young members of the community who will be part of the body will do more as youth leaders and become strong partners of the government in nation-building,” he added. The lawmaker stressed that, for years, the SK has been criticized for undertaking the same activities that do little to benefit youth development such as organizing sportsfests and pageants. To address this, the law provides clear guidelines on the types of programs, projects, and activities that can be undertaken by the SK using the funds provided to them. These include the provision of student stipends, food, book and transportation allowances; sports and wellness projects; skills training, summer employment, cash-for-work, on-the-job training, and livelihood assistance; projects promoting the participation of the youth and their initiation in agricultural, fishery, and forestry enterprises; programs and activities that will locate the youth at the forefront of climate action, environmental protection and conservation efforts; capacity building for grassroots organization and leadership; and programs and activities that address context-specific and intersectional vulnerabilities of young people. “We want to ensure that the SK stays true to its mandate of providing the youth in the communities with programs that will be useful to them and help them become productive members of society,” Angara said. The new measure also addresses the waning interest of the youth in joining the SK, including the absence of honoraria for most of its members. Under the law, the SK members, secretaries and treasurers will now be entitled to allowances that will be charged against the SK funds. A cap of 25 percent on the utilization of SK funds for personnel services was included in the law to ensure that the bulk of the budget will go to programs, projects and activities that will benefit the youth. At present, only the SK chairpersons are entitled to honoraria by virtue of their status as ex-officio members of the Sangguniang Barangays. The measure also authorizes the local government units to provide additional honoraria, as well as social welfare contributions and hazard pay to the SK chairpersons and members through their own local ordinances. SK officials and members will be exempted from taking any components of the National Service Training Program. They will also be entitled to the appropriate civil service eligibility based on the years of service to the barangay, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Civil Service Commission. The post Solon expects stronger SK programs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Better sports facilities pushed
As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am saddened by the dilapidated state of the country’s iconic sports facilities. The Philippine Institute of Sports Multi-Purpose Arena, popularly known as PhilSports Arena, has come a long way from the time it was built in 1985 to house the Philippine Basketball Association until the league moved out in 1993 due to the lack of maintenance of the venue. The last time it was renovated was in 2019, when the country hosted the 30th Southeast Asian Games. Among PhilSports Arena’s main facilities are the Multi-purpose Arena, Swimming Center, and Football and Athletic Stadium. While the arena was greatly enjoyed as a sports facility, it also served as a temporary shelter for evacuees after Tropical Storm Ondoy and Typhoon Pepeng struck the Philippines in 2009, adding to the facility's wear and tear. A quick look at the PhilSports Arena and the other sports facilities nationwide should make us realize that we should invest more in rehabilitating our iconic sports facilities. As I have suggested during the budget deliberations in the Senate, prioritizing funding for sports facilities would have been better than putting flood control projects in areas with little to no population. This concern about the support we are providing our athletes has motivated me to author and co-sponsor Republic Act No. 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. In collaboration with the Philippine Sports Commission and the Department of Education, NAS now offers a specialized secondary education program focused on sports where students can study and train simultaneously. I have also filed the Philippine National Games bill, which aims to provide a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development by having a mini Olympics regularly. Providing opportunities to our youth will help develop their potential in sports but will also help keep them away from vices such as illegal drugs. I continue to support establishing sports-related programs and infrastructure to divert the youth from the lure of addiction and criminality. This is also part of my three-pronged approach to combat illegal drugs in the Philippines – law enforcement, rehabilitation, and prevention. Yesterday, I witnessed the Philippine ROTC Games 2023 Luzon Qualifying Leg opening ceremony held at Cavite State University – Indang Campus in Indang, Cavite. With Sen. Francis Tolentino, I encouraged our young cadets who participated in various competitions to get into sports and stay away from drugs. I have also remained faithful to my promise to visit and help our fellow Filipinos in most parts of the country. On 16 September, we attended the groundbreaking of a Super Health Center in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. We also visited the town of Damulog, where I inspected projects I have supported, such as a public market, road concreting project, evacuation center, solar street lights, and a multipurpose building. Later that day, we also attended the 25th Anniversary of Public Safety Basic Recruit Course Class 1998-Alpha at Acacia Hotel in Davao City. On 15 September, we attended a meeting of state universities and colleges leaders held in Davao City and hosted by Commission on Higher Education Chair Prospero de Vera. The night before, we also joined leaders from the CHEd, the University of the Philippines System, and various SUCs to honor the appointment of Atty. Angelo Jimenez, a fellow Mindanaoan, as the 22nd President of the University of the Philippines. We took the opportunity to voice our commitment to elevating the standard of education nationwide. This is also the reason why Republic Act No. 10931, or the Universal Access To Quality Tertiary Education Act, was enacted into law during the time of former president Rodrigo Duterte. Today, we continue to pursue this further as I co-authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1360, which aims to widen the reach of the law further. We visited Bislig City in Surigao del Sur to participate in its 23rd Charter Day festivities. We handed out grocery packages to 32 newlywed couples during a community wedding and inaugurated the country’s 159th Malasakit Center at the Bislig District Hospital. This is the seventh Malasakit Center in the Caraga region and the 40th in Mindanao. Our team also provided direct aid, including grocery packs, to 129 patients and 191 front liners, including security guards, utilities, and hospital staff. On 15 September, my office also attended the groundbreaking of Super Health Centers in New Washington and Malay in the province of Aklan. Meanwhile, we continue to support livelihood programs, especially those that can help people experiencing poverty overcome crises. Through our support, the Department of Trade and Industry provides livelihood kits to qualified beneficiaries affected by calamities and teaches them how to grow their businesses for the benefit of their families. Among those we have helped are 20 from Dipaculao, Aurora; 57 from Sanchez Mira and Abulog, Cagayan; 100 affected by the earthquake in Montevista and New Bataan, and 50 in Nabunturan in Davao de Oro; 196 in Malalag and Sulop, Davao del Sur; 20 in Mangatarem, Pangasinan; 21 victims of Typhoon Egay in Pigcawayan, North Cotabato; 132 shear line victims in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental; and 36 beneficiaries from Lutayan and Columbio, Sultan Kudarat, and General Santos City. We also continue to support the National Housing Authority’s distribution of emergency housing assistance to disaster victims so they can purchase roofing, nails, and other home repair materials. We assisted beneficiaries, including 85 fire victims in Imus City, Cavite. Meanwhile, my office helped the 65 fire victims in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. We also provided assistance to 75 TESDA graduates in Victorias City, Negros Occidental. We also distributed additional support to workers who lost their jobs, beneficiaries of the TUPAD program of the Department of Labor and Employment, including 413 in Talibon, Bohol, and 150 in Plaridel, Bulacan. We also aided 333 poor residents in Paluan, Occidental Mindoro; and 234 in Antipolo City, Rizal. Together, let us continue bringing government services closer to Filipinos in need – from better sports facilities more accessible healthcare services, and implementing various programs to help uplift communities affected by crises. The post Better sports facilities pushed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Economic team supports rice price cap as sound ‘stop-gap’ measure
Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman reiterated on Monday their support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s order to impose a rice price cap. In a statement, Diokno underscored the importance of immediately implementing a comprehensive set of measures aimed at securing long-term stability within the rice market. "Executive Order No. 39 was issued by the President as the chief executive and the concurrent secretary of the Department of Agriculture. EO 39 serves as a lifeline, extending much-needed relief to Filipinos grappling with the high rice prices,” he said. Under EO No. 39, the mandated price of regular milled rice is P41 per kilogram while well-milled rice is at P45 per kilogram. The Finance Secretary said the economic team views EO 39 as an essential stop-gap measure that needs to be supplemented with additional measures to achieve long-term rice price stability in the country. “We agree with the President that implementing a price cap on rice is the most prudent course of action at the moment to achieve two critical objectives: stabilizing rice prices and extending immediate support to our fellow countrymen," he added. The Finance chief said the President has directed the economic team to implement measures that will mitigate the negative impact of the price controls on rice retailers and farmers. In a separate statement, Pangandaman said the EO will “effectively serve” as an “active stop gap” to address the market’s current circumstances. Pangandaman added that current measures warrant a special mitigating measure. “In an ideal scenario, we can let the market dictate prices. However, as NEDA noted, we are now faced with extraordinary factors that we have to consider," Pangandaman explained. “I join the Chairman and Co-Chairman of the Economic Development Group of the Cabinet in supporting this measure because it is necessary at this time to help those most affected by the otherwise uncontrollable sharp increase in the price of rice,” Pangandaman added. Diokno said in a briefing last Friday that Marcos did not consult the economic team before imposing the order. The economic managers were in the 14th Philippines-Japan High-Level Joint Committee Meeting on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation in Tokyo during the last week of August when Marcos made the announcement, he said. "We were in Japan when that was announced. I was sitting with (NEDA Secretary) Arsi (Balisacan) and we were talking to Japanese investors. Of course, we were shocked." Diokno, the head of the Marcos administration's economic team, said the price cap shouldn't be imposed for too long because it is not sustainable. Price controls "don't really work" under ideal market conditions, and "it has adverse effects if allowed to linger for a longer period," he added. The post Economic team supports rice price cap as sound ‘stop-gap’ measure appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go provides additional support to micro-entrepreneurs in Roxas City, Capiz
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, on Thursday, August 31, provided livelihood support to 43 microentrepreneurs at Barangay Dayao in Roxas City, Capiz, who had previously been impacted by different crises. The identified microentrepreneurs are also beneficiaries of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through its Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program. Aside from the livelihood assistance, Go’s team also distributed snacks, masks, shirt, shoes, and basketballs to the beneficiaries. Select beneficiaries also received cellphones. “Nais kong magpasalamat sa DTI sa inyong PPG program dahil hindi lamang nagbibigay ng tulong kundi pati na rin ng sapat na kaalaman at kakayahan para sa mga pamilyang apektado ng iba't-ibang kalamidad, tulad nitong pandemya,” Go said. “Ang PPG program ay isang malinaw na halimbawa kung paano natin maipapakita ang malasakit at suporta sa ating mga kababayan na tinamaan ng mga pagsubok. Ang inyong pagsisikap ay hindi lamang nagbibigay ng tulong sa mga pamilya at indibidwal, kundi pati na rin sa mga komunidad na nangangailangan ng pagbangon,” he continued. Go pushed for DTI’s PPG program during the Duterte administration to help boost the livelihood of communities affected by crises. He continues to support the implementation of the program to help uplift individuals and families, particularly those engaged in micro-enterprises, who have been adversely affected by health disasters like epidemics and pandemics, calamities such as fires, armed conflicts, and the like. “Palaguin niyo ang inyong negosyo. Kapag lumago ang inyong negosyo, dalhin niyo po ang mga kita sa inyong mga pamilya... mas masarap sa pakiramdam kapag pinagpawisan at pinaghirapan niyo po ang inyong pagnenegosyo at napalago ninyo,” Go said. Go likewise conveyed his appreciation to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. for the enactment of the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Philippines Program into law. The OTOP Philippines Program, authored and co-sponsored by Go, represents a governmental stimulus strategy strategically crafted to nurture the expansion of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide. The program places a strong emphasis on harnessing local resources while concurrently safeguarding the rich tapestry of cultural heritage. Meanwhile, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go encouraged residents to seek the services of the Malasakit Center at Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital in the city where they may conveniently avail of medical assistance from existing programs of the government. Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. The Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, principally authored and sponsored by Go, mandates DOH-run hospitals, plus the Philippine General Hospital, to provide necessary assistance to indigent patients by covering various patient services and fees. To date, there are 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide that have helped over seven million poor and indigent Filipinos, according to DOH. Meanwhile, citing how the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the crucial need to fill in the gaps in the country’s healthcare system, Go continues to push for the establishment of Super Health Centers. Go said that the centers can significantly help reduce occupancy rates in main hospitals by making available basic health services in communities, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit, among others. Through Go's initiative and with the help of his fellow legislators, some 307 Super Health Centers were funded in 2022. He also successfully pushed for the funding of at least 322 more Super Health Centers in this year's health budget. Super Health Centers will also be established in strategic areas in the province, such as in Dumalag, Tapaz, Jamindan, Mambusao, Panay, Panitan, Pilar, President Roxas, Sigma, and Roxas City. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the construction of several river control structures, road rehabilitation along Iloilo East Coast to Capiz Road, and the road concretion along Maayon to Palagian Provincial Road. #### The post Bong Go provides additional support to micro-entrepreneurs in Roxas City, Capiz appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DSWD can give small rice retailers up to P15K financial aid amid ceiling order
The Department of Social Welfare and Development on Tuesday said they are ready to provide cash assistance to small rice retailers who may incur losses due to the Malacanang-mandated price ceiling on rice which became effective yesterday 5 September. DSWD Secretary Gatchalian said he was directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to use the department’s Sustainable Livelihood Program to help small rice retailers recover their would-be losses from the temporary price cap. "We discussed with the President that we will use the DSWD's Sustainable Livelihood Program once again so that our small retailers affected by this temporary price cap on rice can be assisted," Gatchalian said. Under Executive Order No. 39 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on 31 August, the mandated price ceiling for regular milled rice is P41 per kilo while the mandated price cap for well-milled rice is P45 per kilo. The DSWD chief said the SLP currently has a P5.5 billion budget which can be immediately used to help cushion the impact of the price cap on rice particularly among small rice retailers who have a very small inventory. The SLP is a capacity-building program that provides start-up capital for those who wish to start a small business, capital build for cases similar to the effects of the EO 39 to small businesses, and employment grants. Gatchalian said the Department is just waiting for the list of qualified small rice retailers, which will be provided by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Agriculture. “Hopefully, by next week, we can conduct a payout for the sustainable livelihood grant to our affected rice retailers," Gatchalian said. To date, the DTI and the DA are currently coming up with a list of affected rice traders and rice retailers who will receive the government’s assistance. Gatchalian pointed out that the DSWD is ready to begin the nationwide payout to the qualified recipients of financial aid amounting to a maximum of Php15,000. “Bagamat kino-compute pa ng DTI at DA ang dapat matanggap ng bawat tatamaang rice retailers, ang maximum na ibinibigay ng programang SLP ay P15,000. One time big time,” the DSWD chief pointed out. Last Monday, the DSWD chief said he had a meeting with Speaker Martin Romualdez who vowed to raise P2 billion to help augment the SLP budget for the benefit of more small rice traders and retailers. “I told Speaker Romualdez that the SLP’s P5.5 billion is enough to help the distressed small rice retailers. But I also welcome the additional budget as this would mean more Filipinos will be given assistance under the SLP,” Gatchalian said. The post DSWD can give small rice retailers up to P15K financial aid amid ceiling order appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Davao City adds P2.5B funds, including P647M for Mayor Baste
The Davao City Government will get an additional Php 2.58 billion supplemental budget for the calendar year 2023, with the City Mayor's office getting the highest piece of the budget worth Php 647 million for projects......»»
Senators grill VP Duterte on proposed P500-M confidential funds
Senators on Monday quizzed Vice President Sara Duterte over her office request for confidential funds amounting to P500 million for the upcoming fiscal year. During the deliberation of the Senate Committee on Finance for the proposed P2.385 billion budget of the Office of the Vice President, Duterte was asked about her request for confidential funds. Of nine senators who were lined up to ask questions about the OVP budget, only Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Senate Minority Deputy Leader Risa Hontiveros inquired about the allocation of confidential funds to Duterte’s office. Hontiveros particularly questioned Duterte on which mandates of the vice president needed the allocation of confidential funds. Duterte said all the OVP’s projects would require confidential funds. “All of the projects of the Office of the Vice President use the confidential funds that are intended for the safe, secure and successful implementation of programs, projects and activities and engagements of the OVP and all of the satellite offices, including the central office of the Office of the Vice President,” she said. The Vice President specifically said all the programs implemented by her office benefit from the confidential funds, such as entrepreneurship programs; peacebuilding in communities; tree-planting programs; feeding programs; disaster and relief operations; and free transportation programs. “In addition to that, I discharge the functions and duties of the secretary of the Department of Education. In addition to that, I was tasked by the president to co-chair the National Task Force on Ending Local Communists. In addition to that, I also took on the role of president of the Southeast Asian Ministers, Education Ministers Organization. All of these activities use confidential funds,” she said. “In addition, there are times when the President is on official trips, travel abroad. I chair the executive committee which is the caretaker of the Office of the President. This is an additional workload from all of the workload I have mentioned,” she added. Confidential funds are supposed to be utilized for “surveillance activities in civilian government agencies that are intended to support the mandate or operations of the said agency.” Duterte also said the liquidation of the allocated confidential funds was enumerated in the OVP’s report submitted to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Senate President and the Commission on Audit. She also confirmed that the OVP was undertaking surveillance activities and gathering intelligence – a mandate given by the Constitution to civilian government agencies such as the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines and National Intelligence Coordination Agency. “That is correct. As an example, we did a surveillance of complaints from constituents in Bulacan with regard to the selling of OVP assistance and the selling of TUPAD projects in Bulacan," she said. This prompted Hontiveros to ask Duterte how she could ensure that there would be no duplication of work by her office and other civilian government agencies. “There is no redundancy and duplication of effort because we have different mandates from the other government agencies,” the Vice President responded. Duterte also argued that the OVP is not insisting on any amount for its confidential funds, adding that it is up to the members of Congress if they would grant her office's request. "The OVP can only propose the use of confidential funds based on Joint Circular 2015-01 but we leave it to the decision and discretion of Congress [which] has the power of the purse to decide whether to grant confidential funds to our office," she said. "We can only propose but we are not insisting. We can live without confidential funds, but of course, our work will be much easier if we have the flexibility of confidential funds in monitoring the safe, secure and successful implementations of the programs and projects and activities of the OVP," she added. Meanwhile, Pimentel asked Duterte for her basis in seeking P500 million in confidential funds. Duterte said the basis for her office’s request is Joint Circular No. 2015-01. Unsatisfied, Pimentel said that Joint Circular No. 2015-01 issued by COA and Departments of Budget and Management, of National Defense and of the Interior and Local Government and the Governance Commission for GOCCs in 2015 only “governs the use of confidential funds.” Duterte countered that “the fact there is Joint Circular No. 2015-01... presumes that national government agencies are allowed or can request confidential funds because otherwise there will not be a joint circular for the use of national government agencies...” Joint Circular No. 2015-01 contains guidelines on the entitlement, release, use, reporting and audit of CIFs. After about an hour and a half, the Senate panel terminated the deliberation for the OVP’s proposed budget, which was longer compared to the 20-minute approval made by the House Committee on Appropriations for the OVP’s budget proposal for next year. Citing parliamentary courtesy, Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. made a motion to terminate the budget discussion for the OVP’s proposed budget. Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa seconded Revilla’s motion. The post Senators grill VP Duterte on proposed P500-M confidential funds appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go advocates for additional funding for healthcare programs
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and vice chairperson of the Finance Committee, expressed his concerns about the proposed budget cut for the Department of Health in 2024, stressing the critical importance of healthcare, particularly as the country continues to recover from the pandemic. According to the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP), reductions are proposed in various healthcare programs. For instance, the Health Facilities Enhancement Program is slated to be cut from P26.8 billion in 2023 to P22.9 billion in 2024. Similarly, the budget for the prevention and control of infectious diseases is proposed to be reduced from P5.8 billion to P4.8 billion. "Ang estado ng kalusugan ng mga mamamayan sa isang bansa ay isang batayan din ng kalagayan ng kalidad ng buhay," Go said. He stressed that the government should allocate sufficient funds for health programs led by DOH. "Kailangang matiyak na maging ang pinakamahihirap nating kababayan, mga hopeless, helpless at walang malalapitan maliban sa pamahalaan ay may access sa de-kalidad na serbisyong pangkalusugan,” he added. The senator also highlighted the urgency of strengthening the healthcare system, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. "Nagulat tayo nang dumating ang COVID-19 sa ating buhay. Nakita natin ang kakulangan ng ating sistemang pangkalusugan," he said. Despite the challenges, Go sees the pandemic as an opportunity to focus on areas that need improvement. "At dahil dito, sabi ko nga, ‘the more we should invest sa ating healthcare system.’" Go recounted his efforts to increase the DOH budget last year from P296B to P316B for 2023. He also mentioned his opposition to cutting the budget for the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) in 2019. "Hindi po tayo pumayag. In fact, dinagdagan pa natin sila noong budget deliberations," he said, adding that RITM has proven to be a crucial institution during the pandemic. The senator also pushed for additional funding for the Cancer Assistance Fund, which was not initially part of the proposed 2023 budget. "Maganda na napondohan ito ng Lower House, at dinadagdagan pa namin sa Senado," he said. Go plans to double the fund next year, acknowledging the financial and emotional toll cancer takes on families, especially those who are less fortunate. In addition to his proposed budget increases, Go discussed his ongoing initiatives to bring medical services closer to the people. “Una na rito ang patuloy na operasyon ng Malasakit Centers na ating isinulong at naisabatas noon bilang principal sponsor at pangunahing may-akda. Sa kasalukuyan ay mayroon ng 158 Malasakit Centers, at mahigit pitong milyong Pilipino na ang natulungan nito ayon sa datos ng DOH,” Go cited. Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. “Pangalawa ay ang pagkakaroon ng Regional Specialty Centers sa mga regional hospitals ng DOH na atin ding isinulong na maisabatas kamakailan lamang bilang principal sponsor at isa sa mga may akda nito. Ang Regional Specialty Centers Act ay multi-year plan para ilapit ang specialized medical services sa ating mga kababayan. Halimbawa, ang may sakit sa puso, hindi na kailangang sa Maynila pa magpaopera dahil doon na siya pupunta sa DOH regional hospital na malapit sa kanilang lugar,” he explained. Go is also the principal sponsor and one of the authors of the recently signed RA 11959, or the Regional Specialty Centers (RSC) Act. The newly enacted law aims to create additional specialty centers in various regions, thereby ensuring that Filipinos have access to specialized medical services without the need to travel to Manila. “Pangatlo naman ay ang pagpapatayo ng Super Health Centers sa iba’t ibang sulok ng bansa na ating sinikap na mapondohan. Ang Super Health Center naman ay medium type version ng polyclinic, at improved version ng rural health unit. Sa SHC ay mapagkakalooban ang pasyente ng primary care, konsultasyon at early detection ng kanyang sakit,” he further said. Super Health Centers are designed to focus on primary care, consultation, and early detection, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country, especially in grassroots communities. Go assured that substantial funding has been allocated for Super Health Centers under the budget of the Department of Health (DOH). A total of 307 centers were funded for 2022, with an additional 322 slated for 2023. "Kaya bilang lingkod bayan, tutulong ako sa abot ng aking makakaya at sisikapin nating mas ilapit pa ang serbisyo ng gobyerno sa mga taong nangangailangan nito—lalo na ang mga mahihirap at biktima ng krisis,” concluded Go. The post Bong Go advocates for additional funding for healthcare programs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go vows to push for additional budget allocated for health
Senator Bong Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography and Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, has once again reiterated the continuing need to prioritize the health of underprivileged Filipinos and underscored the significance of preparedness in the face of potential health crises. In an interview after his visit to Parañaque City on Monday, 28 August, Go stressed the need to allocate more resources to the Department of Health. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that even the most economically disadvantaged individuals in the country have access to quality healthcare services. Go pointed out the concern generated by the proposed P10 billion reduction in DOH's 2024 budget, particularly given ongoing efforts toward pandemic recovery and the need for a more resilient healthcare system. "Alam n’yo the more we should invest sa ating healthcare system, dapat handa tayo. Nabigla tayo noong 2020 sa pandemyang dumating sa buhay natin," Go urged his fellow lawmakers. The senator also highlighted the government's responsibilities, especially towards healthcare workers, and recollected his endeavors in the preceding year to increase DOH’s budget from P296 billion to P316 billion. Go's forward-thinking was evident when he recounted the near budget reduction of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine in 2019, a crucial institution responsible for COVID-19 testing. He shared, “Sino ba ang mag-aakala na ‘yun ang pinakaimportanteng opisina sa panahon ng pandemya? Kutob ko lang ‘yan. Hindi po ako pumayag na mabawasan. In fact, dinagdagan pa natin during the budget deliberations para ‘wag mabawasan at nadagdagan pa ang RITM.” He likewise outlined various initiatives, including allocating additional budget for the Cancer Assistance Fund to support cancer treatment, overseeing health facilities and services regulation, funding the Health Facilities Enhancement Program, providing medical assistance to indigent patients, and securing health emergency allowances. Go has consistently emphasized his unwavering commitment to fortify the health sector of the country. His dedication is evident through various initiatives such as the establishment of Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers, and Regional Specialty Centers nationwide. A brainchild of Go, the Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, DOH, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. To date, 158 operational centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to DOH. By establishing Super Health Centers throughout the country, the government aims to ensure that every Filipino, regardless of their location, can avail themselves of essential healthcare services without the burden of long-distance travel or prohibitive costs, the senator added. Lastly, Go underscored the importance of bringing specialized medical services closer to communities by establishing dedicated specialty centers in regional hospitals under the DOH. Go is the principal sponsor and one of the authors of the Regional Specialty Centers Act. 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 DOH will implement in regional hospitals. The post Bong Go vows to push for additional budget allocated for health appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
P19-million needed to fight fake news — PCO
The Presidential Communications Office needs P19 million under its 2024 budget to combat fake news or disinformation in the country. In the deliberations for the agency's budget for 2024 before the House Committee on Appropriations on Tuesday, PCO Secretary Cheloy Garafil said they had proposed a total of P19 million for the Media and Information Literacy or MIL drive to purge disinformation and misinformation plaguing the country's digital landscape. The anti-fake news drive is the initiative of the Marcos administration. The campaign will be launched in October to coincide with MIL and Communications Month. The Marcos administration will collaborate with private sectors, Google, Meta, TikTok, and X, formerly Twitter, to run workshops similar to TED Talks. It is an international non-profit organization that spreads ideas and information from its expert speakers on education, business, science, tech, and creativity. While the MIL is considered their top accomplishment, the PCO faces the challenge of combating fake news which hinders their ability to fulfill their mandate. However, additional funding will certainly help the PCO against this fight, according to Garafil. The PCO, she said, had proposed over P300 million allocation for the anti-fake and disinformation campaign, but it was not approved. Garafil told lawmakers they requested "more than P300 million," which she said would be "more than sufficient" to cover their operations next year. As for policing fake news circulating on online platforms, PCO Undersecretary Emerald Ridao said it would be an "endless" task for the PCO to shoulder alone and would need assistance from other platforms. "If we were to tackle every piece of information... it would be an endless task considering how easy it is to create new information," Ridao said. "Which is why we are leaving that to the platforms where the information circulates." Ridao made the remark following the interpolation of Kabataan Rep. Raoul Manuel, arguing that the PCO, which he claimed "should set the standard," could not even afford to stamp out fake news wherein politicians, and even the President, benefited. Ridao underscored that the online platforms each already have their own way of policing disinformation as well as reporting anything that is false. The post P19-million needed to fight fake news — PCO 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......»»