Bising to bring rain over Camarines provinces, Catanduanes, eastern Quezon
PAGASA on Tuesday said heavy rainfall will prevail in the Camarines provinces, Catanduanes and in the eastern portion of Quezon as Typhoon "Bising" maintained its strength......»»
Metro Manila, other Luzon areas under Signal '1 as ‘Egay’ intensifies
Typhoon Egay has intensified further as it continues to move westward slowly, according to the state weather bureau. According to PAGASA’s 11 a.m update today, 24 July, "Egay" was last located 525 kilometers east of Baler, Aurora. The storm is currently packing maximum sustained winds of 150 kilometers per hour and gusts up to 185 kilometers per hour. "Egay" is expected to continue its intensification to a super typhoon category, reaching its peak by tomorrow evening. The storm may make landfall in extreme Northern Luzon. Thus, PAGASA has raised Signal #2 in the provinces of Catanduanes, the central and eastern portions of Isabela, eastern portions of Albay, eastern and central portions of Cagayan, eastern portions of Camarines Sur, northern portions of Camarines Norte, eastern portions of Quirino and northern portions of Aurora. In Visayas, Signal #2 is also hoisted in the northeastern portions of Northern Samar, specifically the towns of Laoang and Palapag. Signal #1 is raised in the rest of mainland Luzon, the remaining provinces in Samar island, Biliran, the northern and central portions of Leyte and the northern portions of Cebu. PAGASA is forecasting "Egay" to move west-northwestward in the next 12 hours before turning northwestward toward extreme Northern Luzon. The typhoon is expected to pass close to or make landfall in the Batanes-Babuyan Islands area tomorrow evening to Wednesday afternoon. A possibility of a landfall in the northeastern portion of Cagayan is not ruled out by the state weather bureau due to the presence of high pressure north of the typhoon. PAGASA has warned about the potential effects of the southwest monsoon (Habagat) that could bring occasional rainfall to the western portions of Luzon and Visayas for the next three days. Typhoon "Egay" is expected to leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Thursday. The post Metro Manila, other Luzon areas under Signal #1 as ‘Egay’ intensifies appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Egay’ intensifies to severe tropical storm
"Egay" has become a severe tropical storm and could strengthen further by Tuesday, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on Sunday. In its latest advisory, the state bureau said Egay, will intensify into a typhoon over the following 24 hours. PAGASA attributed Egay's quick intensification to "favorable atmospheric and oceanic conditions." "Through the forecast period, this tropical cyclone will continue to steadily intensify. It may reach super typhoon category on Tuesday or Wednesday while over the Philippine Sea east of Extreme Northern Luzon," PAGASA said. The state bureau also expects "Egay" to weaken by Wednesday before it impacts Taiwan, and it may weaken even more as it interacts with the hilly terrain of the autonomous island. This weakening is anticipated to continue until the storm makes another impact on the Chinese mainland. No tropical cyclone wind signal was raised anywhere in the Philippines. Still, PAGASA warned residents to brace themselves for heavy rainfall through Tuesday in several areas of Luzon and the Bicol Region. "Current forecast scenario shows that the highest wind signal that may be hoisted will be Wind Signal No. 3 or 4, potentially over Extreme Northern Luzon," it said. "However, should a southward shift in the track occur, higher wind signals may be hoisted." The weather state bureau last spotted "Egay" at 610 kilometers east of Daet, Camarines Norte. It had winds that might reach a maximum sustained speed of 95 kilometers per hour (kph) and gusts as high as 115 kph. It moved westward and increased somewhat in speed from early Sunday morning's 10 kph to 15 kph. In the coming three days, "Egay" is predicted to intensify the southwest monsoon, or "habagat", and bring heavy rain to a number of regions of the nation. The Bicol area, Eastern Visayas, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands, and the southern part of Quezon expected cloudy sky with intermittent rain showers and thunderstorms brought on by the trough of "Egay". Over Occidental Mindoro, Romblon, Palawan, and the remainder of the Visayas, the southwest monsoon is anticipated to bring cloudy skies, sporadic rain showers, and thunderstorms. Due to the "habagat" and localized thunderstorms, Metro Manila and the rest of the country can expect partly overcast to cloudy sky with sporadic rain showers or thunderstorms. "Egay" and the strengthened southwest monsoon are also expected to deliver significant gusts of wind to the northern parts of the Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga, according to PAGASA. The weather disturbance may bring heavy rain to Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, and the northern part of Camarines Sur on Monday. The eastern seaboards of Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Northeastern Mindanao were also under a gale warning from PAGASA. The post ‘Egay’ intensifies to severe tropical storm appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Paeng’ to exit Luzon landmass within 6 to 12 hours; out of PAR by Monday – PAGASA
The state weather bureau, on Saturday evening, Oct. 29, said severe tropical storm Paeng (international name: Nalgae) will likely exit the Luzon landmass within 6 to 12 hours, adding that based on the latest forecast track, it may leave the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) on Monday, Oct. 31. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), in its bulletin issued at 11 p.m., said Paeng has crossed the Laguna de Bay and the Metro Manila-Rizal-Bulacan area and is now in the vicinity of Baliuag, Bulacan. Paeng has maximum sustained winds of 95 kilometers per hour (kph) and gustiness of up to 160 kph. “Paeng may maintain its strength from the remainder of its traverse of the Luzon landmass, although the possibility of slight weakening is not ruled out within the next 6 hours,” said PAGASA. (MB Visual Content Group) Hazards affecting PH The weather disturbance, before it emerges over the West Philippine Sea, will continue to bring heavy to intense rains in Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, and the northern portion of mainland Quezon until Sunday, Oct. 30. Meanwhile, moderate to at times intense rains may be experienced over mainland Cagayan Valley, Cordillera Administrative Region, Mindoro Provinces, the central portion of Quezon including Polillo islands, and the rest of Central Luzon. “Under these conditions, widespread flooding and rain-induced landslides are expected,” PAGASA said. Wind Signals in effect Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) are still raised due to the weather disturbance. Wind Signal no. 3 remained hoisted in the northern portion of Metro Manila, Bataan, the southern portion of Zambales, Pampanga, Bulacan, and the southern portion of Tarlac. Areas placed under Signal No. 2 were Pangasinan, the southern portion of Aurora, the rest of Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, the rest of Zambales, Laguna, Batangas, the northern and central portions of Quezon including Polillo Islands, Rizal, Cavite, the rest of Metro Manila, Cavite, the northern portion of Oriental Mindoro, and the northern portion of Occidental Mindoro including Lubang Islands. Meanwhile, Signal No. 1 was hoisted over La Union, Kalinga, Abra, Benguet, Ifugao, Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, Isabela, the rest of Aurora, the rest of Quezon, Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Albay, Sorsogon, the western portion of Masbate including Burias and Ticao Islands, the rest of Occidental Mindoro, the rest of Oriental Mindoro, Palawan including Calamian Islands, Cuyo Islands, Romblon, and Marinduque, Capiz, Aklan, and the northern portion of Antique including Caluya Islands. Wind Signals in other areas were lifted by PAGASA......»»
‘Rolly’ may pass close to Metro Manila after Quezon landfall Sunday
After its landfall over Quezon province this Sunday, typhoon “Rolly” (international name: “Goni”) will possibly pass close to Metro Manila between Sunday evening and Monday morning. In its weather bulletin Saturday morning, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) weather specialist Benison Estareja said Rolly will move west-southwest this Saturday toward the sea off the coast of Bicol region. (DOST PAGASA / MANILA BULLETIN) The typhoon was already around 540 kilometers east-northeast of Virac, Catanduanes, moving at 20 kilometers per hour (kph) around 7 a.m. Beginning early Sunday, it will gradually turn west-northwest, bringing its inner rainbands-eyewall region near or over Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, and Camarines Sur during the morning-afternoon hours and over Quezon-southern Aurora area during the afternoon-evening hours. The center of the eye of the typhoon may pass very close or over the Calaguas Islands by Sunday afternoon and make landfall in Polillo Islands and mainland Quezon in the evening. Estareja said the eye of Rolly will likely pass directly over Quezon-Aurora, entire Central Luzon, “where Metro Manila and Rizal will be closest,” and over parts of Ilocos Region, particularly Pangasinan and La Union. After crossing Central Luzon, the center of Rolly may exit the mainland Luzon landmass, most likely through the Zambales-Bataan area by Monday morning, Estareja said. Signal No. 2 up; Metro Manila under signal No. 1 The wind signal in some provinces in the Bicol region were upgraded to tropical cyclone wind signal No. 2 as damaging gale-force to storm-force winds is expected to affect these areas in the next 24 hours. Signal No. 2 has been hoisted over Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Burias Island, and the southeastern portion of Quezon (San Francisco, San Andres, San Narciso, Mulanay, Catanauan, Buenavista, Lopez, Guinayangan, Calauag, Tagkawayan). More areas were also placed under signal No. 1 in anticipation of strong breeze to near gale conditions associated with the approaching typhoon. These areas were Metro Manila, the rest of Masbate including Ticao Island, the rest of Quezon including Polillo Islands, Rizal, Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, Marinduque, Romblon, Occidental Mindoro including Lubang Island, Oriental Mindoro, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, Zambales, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Pangasinan, La Union, Benguet, Ifugao, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, southern portion of Isabela (Aurora, Luna, Reina Mercedes, Naguilian, Benito Soliven, San Mariano, Palanan, Dinapigue, San Guillermo, Echague, San Agustin, Jones, Cordon, Santiago City, Ramon, San Isidro, Angadanan, Alicia, Cauayan City, Cabatuan, San Mateo), Northern Samar, northern portion of Samar (Tagapul-An, Almagro, Santo Nino, Tarangnan, Catbalogan City, Calbayog City, Santa Margarita, Gandara, Pagsanghan, San Jorge, Jiabong, Motiong, Paranas, San Jose de Buan, Matuguinao), the northern portion of Eastern Samar (Taft, Can-Avid, Dolores, Maslog, Jipapad, Arteche, Oras, San Policarpo), and the northern portion of Biliran (Kawayan, Maripipi). PAGASA said signal No. 3 may be raised over portions of Bicol region late Saturday. Based on the intensity forecast, the highest possible wind signal to be raised will be signal No. 4 for very destructive typhoon-force winds. Elsewhere, areas that are not under not under tropical cyclone warning signal may experience strong breeze to near gale conditions due to the northeasterlies, particularly over Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Ilocos Norte, Apayao, and the coastal and mountainous areas of Cagayan and Isabela. Nears super-typhoon status As of Saturday morning, Rolly has maximum sustained winds of 215 kph and gustiness of up to 265 kph. It is close to reaching the 220 kph maximum wind speed to be classified as a supertyphoon. PAGASA is not ruling its possible intensification into a supertyphoon within 12 hours. Estareja said Rolly has a high chance of intensifying into a supertyphoon while on its way to the country, but there is still a slim probability that it may make landfall as a supertyphoon. However, it is still expected to remain a strong typhoon or near supertyphoon strength by the time it makes landfall over Quezon. While traversing Luzon, the tropical cyclone may weaken considerably to a minimal typhoon (120 kph to 140 kph yung maximum sustained winds), Estareja said. Nonetheless, Rolly is still possibly destructive. It may emerge as a severe tropical storm over the West Philippine Sea. Typhoon impacts This Saturday, the trough or extension of Rolly will bring light to moderate with at times heavy rains over Central Visayas, Negros Occidental, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Palawan, including Cuyo Islands, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Caraga, and Sulu archipelago. From late Saturday throughout Sunday, heavy to intense rains due to the direct impact of Rolly will already be felt over Bicol region, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon, Metro Manila, Central Luzon Marinduque, and the northern portions of Occidental and Oriental Mindoro. Moderate to heavy rains will also be experienced over Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, and Quirino. PAGASA warned that flooding, rain-induced landslides, and sediment-laden streamflows or lahar may occur during heavy or prolonged rainfall, especially in areas that are highly susceptible to these hazards. There is a moderate to high risk of storm surge of up to 3.0 meters (m) over the northern coastal areas of Quezon including Polillo Islands and up to 2.0 m over the coastal areas of Aurora, Marinduque, Bicol region, and Northern Samar, and the other coastal areas of Quezon in the next 48 hours which may result in life-threatening and damaging coastal inundation. PAGASA said this storm surge may be accompanied by swells and breaking waves reaching the coast. Rough to “phenomenal” seas (2.5 to 15.0 m) will be experienced over the seaboard of areas where tropical cyclone warning signal is in effect and rough to very rough seas (2.5 to 5.0 m) over the remaining seaboards of Northern Luzon and the eastern seaboards of Eastern Visayas (that are not under tropical cyclone warning signals) and Caraga. Sea travel is risky for all types of seacraft over these waters, especially those under storm warning signals. Meanwhile, moderate to rough seas (1.2 to 2.5 m) will be experienced over the remaining seaboards of the country. Mariners of small sea vessels were advised to take precautionary measures when venturing out to sea, while inexperienced mariners should avoid navigating in these conditions. Another cyclone approaching While Rolly is raging over Luzon, Estareja said the tropical depression with international name “Atsani” could enter the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) on Sunday afternoon. It will be assigned its local name “Siony” once inside the PAR. It was estimated at 1,605 km east of Visayas around 4 a.m. Saturday. Atsani has maximum sustained winds of 55 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 70 kph, while moving west-northwestward at 25 kph. It is likely to re-intensify into a tropical storm in the next 24 to 48 hours, and further into a typhoon in the next few days. It remains less likely to affect any portion of the country over the next three days. But Estareja said PAGASA is not ruling out a possible landfall in Central or Southern Luzon, before recurving toward the southern islands of Japan in the coming days. He also reiterated that a Fujiwhara effect is unlikely between Rolly and Atsani. Fujiwhara effect happens when two typhoons pull each other in a seesaw-like motion......»»
Lady Spikers repeat over Lady Tamaraws
The La Salle Lady Spikers won their fifth straight match in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament after sweeping their season series with the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws, 25-19, 25-21, 25-18, Saturday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City......»»
Advancing OFWs’ welfare, protecting Filipinos abroad
Overseas Filipino Workers, or OFWs, are indeed modern-day heroes. They help boost our economy, but more importantly, they help uplift the lives of their families to give them a better future and also showcase Filipinos' talents, skills, and work ethic to the world. I was in London, United Kingdom last week for an official trip upon the invitation of the British Group Inter-Parliament Union. Led by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and co-head of delegation Senator Grace Poe, we embarked on several meetings aimed at strengthening relations of the Philippine Senate with our counterparts in the UK parliament to exchange best practices in policymaking while enhancing bilateral relations, fostering economic security, exploring areas of cooperation between the two countries, and promoting the welfare of Filipinos working there. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, I also expressed my gratitude to the UK for donating vaccines during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic. Moreover, we thanked them for other development assistance extended by the UK to the Philippines and for their help in strengthening the Bangsamoro Region. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, I also maximized the visit to highlight efforts in promoting the welfare of more than 200,000 OFWs in the UK, particularly the more or less 40,000 Filipino nurses working there. We were able to raise to the UK policymakers the concerns of Filipino nurses regarding their rights to proper benefits, just compensation, and a safe working environment. We should be proud of Filipino medical frontliners in the UK, particularly nurses who are among the world’s finest. Take, for example, May Parsons, a Filipina-British nurse who became known globally for administering the first COVID-19 vaccine outside of a clinical trial and receiving the UK's George Cross Award. I have co-sponsored a Senate resolution earlier recognizing and commending her achievement. After our official meetings, I met with a group of OFWs, some of them were fellow Dabawenyos, Filipino Muslims, Ilonggos, and Ilocanos, among others. The stories they shared were proof of how resilient our OFWs are. Despite their sacrifices, homesickness, and worries about their families in their hometowns, they maintain their cheerfulness and positive outlook. I brought some good news to our OFWs by informing them about the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) through Republic Act No. 11641, a legislation for which I am proud to be one of the authors and co-sponsors in the Senate. This measure streamlines the organization and functions of all government agencies related to overseas employment and migration to better address the needs and concerns of migrant workers. I have also filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2297 to institutionalize the OFW Hospital and ensure its continuous operation in San Fernando City, Pampanga, primarily intended for OFWs and eligible dependents. More importantly, a Malasakit Center is operational there to help reduce their out-of-pocket expenses. The establishment of the DMW, the OFW Hospital, and its own Malasakit Center are just a few of our dreams that are now realities for Filipinos to benefit from. These are testaments of our commitment to promote the welfare of migrant workers and their dependents. However, we acknowledge that there is more work to be done. That is why we continue to listen to their concerns, serve them to the best of our abilities, and pursue initiatives to further their cause. I have also filed SBN 2414, which seeks to establish OFW wards in Department of Health (DOH) hospitals if enacted into law. While our efforts continue to safeguard the welfare of Filipinos abroad, our commitment to serve Filipinos facing challenges in their communities remains unwavering. This week, we had groundbreaking ceremonies for Super Health Centers in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte; Brgy. Labangon in Cebu City; Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur; and in Tigbauan, Iloilo. Through the collective efforts of DOH, LGUs, and fellow lawmakers, we continue to advocate for establishing more community health facilities to help bring public health services closer to those needing medical attention. We have also assisted 1,000 indigents in Llanera, Nueva Ecija, with the office of Cong. Jose Padiernos; 500 members from various sectors in Barangay Mintal, Davao City; 1,900 in Caloocan City, with the office of Congresswoman Mitch Cajayon-Uy. In Cebu City, we also distributed aid to 1,700 residents of the South District with Congressman Edu Rama; 450 in Nagcarlan, Laguna, with Mayor Elmor Vita and Councilor Rey Comendador; and 333 in Pulupandan, Negros Occidental, in collaboration with the Malasakit@Bayanihan group. We also aided 1,000 United Senior Citizens Association members of Quezon City, with Congresswoman Mila Magsaysay, Senator Robin Padilla, and private sector volunteer organizations. My office also extended additional aid to 93 displaced workers in Lumban, Laguna; 210 in Pilar; 217 in Carmen and Batuan in Bohol. DOLE also gave qualified beneficiaries temporary employment. We also supported 200 scholars during their TESDA Orientation in Daet, Camarines Norte. There are also 43 residents of Davao City and nine in La Paz, Agusan del Sur, who were victims of fires and 32 victims of flooding in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat. They were provided separate assistance and the livelihood kits they received through the DTI program, which we advocated for before and continue to support. We also supported 283 victims of past fires in Cagayan de Oro City by giving separate aid in addition to the emergency housing assistance received from the NHA through a program we pushed for so that they could buy materials like nails, roofing, and other necessities for home repairs. My office also provided immediate help to victims of recent fires, such as 50 families in Baseco, Manila City, and 11 families in Brgy. Alabang, Muntinlupa City. No one is exempt from facing life’s hardships. However, our OFWs have shown us how resilient Filipinos can be. Let us learn from them and, more importantly, do our part in uplifting their lives by advocating for their welfare, promoting their rights, protecting their families, and providing the genuine public service they deserve. The post Advancing OFWs’ welfare, protecting Filipinos abroad appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos sees early palay harvest to reduce rice prices
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed optimism that the early harvest of palay (unhusked rice) would help bring down the prices of rice in the markets. In a chance media interview, Marcos expressed hope that Filipinos will once again reap the effects of “more improved production” in the agriculture sector. He also reiterated his decision to order the temporary imposition of the mandated price ceilings on rice because of the sudden spike in the prices of the staple grain. “We're already harvesting. When that comes in, I think we will see the prices go down. It would be determined by market forces. Maybe if the market itself lowers the price, we could reduce it),” Marcos said on the sidelines of rice distribution to about 2,000 qualified beneficiaries in Iriga City, Camarines Sur on Saturday. In August, the Department of Agriculture reported an estimated 900,000 metric tons of the palay harvest output. Marcos said the palay harvest, which is expected to peak in late September to October, will contribute largely to the country's production from July to December. By this time, the DA estimated that the palay harvest to peak at 11.5 million metric tons. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that the national palay output from January to June 2023 rose to 9.02 million MT, 3.4 percent more than the 8.7 million MT production for the same period in 2022 and 2021. Moreover, Marcos said the government is currently dealing with hoarding of rice supply to manipulate the price of the staple grain. Amid the hoarders delaying the release of rice, Marcos stressed “There’s no need not worry about the supply.” He said the country has sufficient stock of the staple. “Nandito po kami upang magbigay naman ng tulong sa mga nangangailangan dahil alam po nating nagtaas ang presyo ng bigas (We are here to help those in need because we know that the price of rice has increased),” he added. Marcos said the rice price was so high prompting the government to impose a price cap. Under Executive Order 39, which took effect on 5 September, Marcos ordered the implementation of a price ceiling of P41 per kilogram for regular milled rice and P45 per kg for well-milled rice. Marcos stressed that one of the government's thrusts is to address the gaps and challenges in the agricultural sector, particularly “rice distribution that affects supply and prices.” “Marami naman tayong bigas hindi lang nailalabas nang tama. Kaya’t hindi problema ang supply sa atin dito sa Pilipinas (We have lost of rice but it is not being correctly distributed. That’s why we have no problem with the rice supply here in the Philippines),” he said. Marcos said the DA is exhausting all efforts to boost the supply and reduce the cost of rice in the country. In the meantime, he said the government has to implement measures such as the imposition of a price cap, provision of cash aid to rice retailers, as well as setting new palay buying price range for the National Food Authority to help farmers and secure inventory. The post Marcos sees early palay harvest to reduce rice prices appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Heavy rains ahead due to typhoon-enhanced ‘habagat’
The typhoon-enhanced southwest monsoon or "habagat" will continue to affect the western portion of Luzon in the next three days, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said Monday. Typhoon Hanna, which exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility, will continue to enhance "habagat", bringing a significant amount of rain to Metro Manila, Ilocos Region, La Union, Abra, Benguet, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite, Batangas, Occidental Mindoro, Calamian Islands and Zambales. PAGASA warned that flooding and rain-induced landslides are expected under this weather condition. On Tuesday, the enhanced southwest monsoon will continue to bring gusty conditions over the following areas not under any Wind Signal, especially in coastal and upland/mountainous areas exposed to winds, including the Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Ilocos Region, Abra, Benguet, Nueva Vizcaya, the southern portion of Aurora, Zambales, Bataan, Bulacan, Metro Manila, Occidental Mindoro, Romblon, Marinduque, Kalayaan Islands, Camarines Provinces and most of Calabarzon. Gusty winds will prevail over the Batanes, Ilocos Norte, the western portion of Pangasinan and Kalayaan Islands on Wednesday. PAGASA said the Gale Warning is in effect for the seaboards of Northern Luzon, the western and southern seaboards of Luzon, and the western seaboard of Visaya due to the combined influence of "Hanna" (while outside PAR) and the enhanced southwest monsoon. PAGASA said it is also closely monitoring cloud formations that may develop into a low-pressure area. These cloud clusters are forming over the eastern section, it added. PAGASA said it is “not ruling out the possibility” that it will develop into an LPA in the next few days. The post Heavy rains ahead due to typhoon-enhanced ‘habagat’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAGASA: Goring continuing to weaken
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration on Monday said “Goring” continues to weaken while moving north-northeastward over the Philippine Sea. Heavy rainfall due to “Goring” is still expected in the northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan by Monday with 50 to 100 millimeters of rain pouring expected over the Batanes, Babuyan Islands and the northern portions of mainland Cagayan, Apayao, and Ilocos Norte by Tuesday. Batanes will have greater than 200 mm raindrops on Wednesday, including Babuyan Island at 100 to 200 mm while 50-100 mm rains are expected in the northern portions of mainland Cagayan, Apayao, and Ilocos Norte. PAGASA said the southwest monsoon enhanced by “Goring” meanwhile brings occasional or monsoon rains over the western portions of Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, and Visayas over the next three days. “Goring” is forecast to maintain its strength or may slightly weaken further in the next 12 hours due to the upwelling of cooler ocean waters and the onset of dry air intrusion before re-intensifying as it turns northwestward. The weather disturbance may pass close to Batanes at or near its peak intensity. PAGASA said interaction with the rugged terrain of Taiwan during its close approach will result in a weakening trend beginning by late Wednesday. Typhoon “Goring” was last tracked at 245 km East Northeast of Casiguran, Aurora, packing maximum sustained winds of 155 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 190 kph. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal no. 1 remains hoisted over the Batanes, Babuyan Islands, the northern and eastern portions of mainland Cagayan (Camalaniugan, Pamplona, Gonzaga, Santa Teresita, Baggao, Buguey, Santa Ana, Claveria, Aparri, Ballesteros, Abulug, Sanchez-Mira, Santa Praxedes, Allacapan, Lal-Lo, Lasam, Peñablanca, Iguig, Amulung, Gattaran, Alcala), the eastern portion of Isabela (Dinapigue, San Mariano, San Guillermo, Ilagan City, Tumauini, San Pablo, Cabagan, Maconacon, Divilacan, Palanan), the northern and central portions of Aurora (Casiguran, Dinalungan, Dilasag, Baler, Dipaculao, Maria Aurora, San Luis), Polillo Islands, the northern and eastern portions of Camarines Norte (Capalonga, Jose Panganiban, Paracale, Vinzons, Talisay, Daet, Mercedes) including Calaguas Islands, the northeastern portion of Camarines Sur (Siruma, Tinambac, Lagonoy, Garchitorena, Caramoan), and the northern portion of Catanduanes (Panganiban, Caramoran, Viga, Bagamanoc, Pandan). The post PAGASA: Goring continuing to weaken appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Former Magdalo leader challenges Lray Villafuerte
Former Magdalo leader and San Fernando, Camarines Sur Mayor Fermin Mabulo, challenged 2nd District Rep. LRay Villafuerte to a gubernatorial face-off and called for an end to their 40-Year reign. The former Magdalo leader on Monday announced his commitment to challenge the Villafuerte dynasty. In a press conference in Quezon City, Mabulo boldly called for a new brand of leadership that prioritizes inclusive and sustainable development for all, while issuing a direct challenge to Camarines Sur Representative LRay Villafuerte for a face-off in the next gubernatorial elections. He said he is forced to come out in the open following the escalating number of fake news and rumors, he alleges, are spread by the Villafuerte camp against him and his family. He expressed frustration with these baseless attacks, hinting at the political motives behind them. "Madami pong lumalabas na mga fake news laban sa akin at sa aming pamilya. Mga paninira na sa una ay hindi namin pinapansin dahil pawang kasinungalingan lang. Subalit ito ay palala ng palala at sponsored pa," Mabulo revealed, underscoring the need to address the smear campaign that has plagued him and his family. Despite previously serving as the provincial administrator during Villafuerte's term as governor, Mayor Mabulo recounted that Rep. Villafuerte initiated attacks against him on social media platforms. Earlier this year, Rep. Villafuerte even challenged Mayor Mabulo to a boxing match. “May nag-text nga sa akin at nanghahamon pa ng suntukan, nag-post din sa Facebook. Sasagutin na kita, Congressman Villafuerte, tinatanggap ko ang iyong hamon. Boxing? Let’s go! Sa isang kundisyon: gawin natin ito sa Jessie Robredo Coliseum sa Naga City bilang fundraising event para sa kapakanan ng ating mga provincial scholars na tinanggal mo dahil hindi bumoto sa mga anak mo ang magulang at pamilya nila," declared Mayor Mabulo. Undeterred by the 40-year Villafuerte leadership in Camarines Sur, Mayor Mabulo voiced his commitment to break away from stagnation and bring about genuine progress and development in the province. "Nakalipas ang apat na pung taon sa position, mailap parin ang pangarap na kapayapaan at kaginhawan na pinapangarap ng bawat magsasaka, mangingisda, at mga ordinaryong mamamayan sa aming probinsiya," he asserted, emphasizing the pressing need for transformative leadership. Mayor Mabulo expressed, "I am offering myself to my beloved province mates in Camarines Sur. Enough is enough! It is time for a new brand of leadership, leadership with heart and skills." This echoes the principles of the late Secretary Jesse Robredo. Citing the Philippine Statistics Authority, Mayor Mabulo highlighted the pressing socio-economic challenges faced by Camarines Sur. The province reported a high poverty incidence of 29.8 percent, reflecting the hardships endured by a significant portion of the population. Additionally, the subsistence incidence among families stands at 10.5 percent, indicating the struggle to meet basic food requirements. The Department of Social Welfare and Development's Listahanan 3 database identified around 184,667 poor households, equivalent to 1,078,719 indigents, in Camarines Sur. These figures underscore the need for targeted poverty reduction programs to uplift the most vulnerable communities. Furthermore, the province's Human Development Index (HDI) witnessed a decline during the term of Governor LRay Villafuerte, despite increased tourism and economic activity, indicating the urgency for inclusive and sustainable development efforts that benefit all residents. Drawing a parallel with the biblical narrative of the Exodus, Mayor Mabulo said, "Life begins at 40. After 40 years of suffering in the wilderness, God brought the Israelites to the promised land, a land flowing with milk and honey. I call on my province mates in Camarines Sur - tapusin na po natin ang apat na pong taon na paghihirap sa Camarines Sur. Panahon para sa pagbabago." The upcoming gubernatorial elections will see how much of a hold the Villafuertes still have over the province. The post Former Magdalo leader challenges Lray Villafuerte appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Combined LPA, Habagat to affect most part of Phl— Pagasa
Rainy weather will be experienced throughout the country due to the combined effects of the low-pressure area off Infanta, Quezon, and the southwest monsoon or Habagat, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Administration said Thursday. Citing the latest PAGASA bulletin, weather specialist Patrick Del Mundo said that the LPA is unlikely to become a tropical cyclone in the next 24 hours but already affects several parts of the country. “This LPA remained less likely to become a tropical cyclone in the next 24 hours, but we are expecting it to move closer to parts of Aurora, Quezon, and Camarines Norte area,” Del Mundo reported. However, PAGASA has not ruled out the possibility of the weather disturbance intensifying into a tropical depression. The LPA was last tracked 90 kilometers over Northeast of Infanta, Quezon, or 85 km Southeast of Baler, Aurora (15.3°N, 122.3°E). Del Mundo said the Southwest Monsoon is still affecting Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. “Due to the combined effects of LPA and southwest monsoon, we expect the sky to be cloudy throughout the day, along with scattered rain, lightning, and thunder,” he added. The combined LPA and the southwest monsoon will trigger rain showers and thunderstorms called “monsoon rains” in Metro Manila, Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and MIMAROPA. Southwest Monsoon will bring occasional rains over Bicol Region and Western Visayas. PAGASA warned that scattered to widespread rains could cause possible flooding or landslides in the above-mentioned areas. While Central and Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, BARMM, and SOCCSKSARGEN will experience Cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms due to Habagat. Isolated rain showers or thunderstorms will prevail over the Caraga and Davao Region due to localized thunderstorms. The post Combined LPA, Habagat to affect most part of Phl— Pagasa appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go aids indigent students in Talisay, Camarines Norte
The Office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go worked together with the Department of Social Welfare and Development to offer aid to indigent students in Talisay, Camarines Norte on Friday, 30 June. Held at the Talisay Sports Complex, Go’s staff distributed snacks, masks, and shirts to a total of 329 students. They also gave away shoes and cellular phones to select individuals. Moreover, personnel from the DSWD provided assistance to qualified beneficiaries. In a video message, Go, chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, expressed his unwavering support for improving access to healthcare in the country. Go likewise urged the residents to avail of medical assistance from the Malasakit Center at the Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital in Daet. Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. To date, 158 operational centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the DOH. “Sa mga pasyente, lapitan niyo lang ang Malasakit Center dahil para ‘to sa inyo. Kung may hospital bill kayo, nandiyan ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno na tutulong para mabayaran ito,” said Go. In his role as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go pushed for the allocation of funds for various projects in Camarines Norte, including the construction of a control structure for the Mabulao River in Daet, and a multi-purpose building for the Camarines Norte State College, among others. Last June 20, 119 students from the town received similar assistance. On June 10, Go personally visited the Malasakit Center in Daet and attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Super Health Center in Talisay town in the said province, where he also provided aid to struggling individuals. The post Bong Go aids indigent students in Talisay, Camarines Norte appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Avel: A Book, A Fashion Show, A Filipino Designer
BY JOJO G. SILVESTRE Whether one refers to the book, the fashion show or the Filipino designer who takes center stage on the first two, there is no mistaking the message — Philippine textile, woven and embroidered, at their best. In all three, there is another common denominator — the support and patronage of the First Lady, Liza Araneta Marcos. [caption id="attachment_147815" align="aligncenter" width="525"] FIRST Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos with designer Avel Bacudio.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_147821" align="aligncenter" width="525"] First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos with the author.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_147818" align="aligncenter" width="525"] BIANCA Zobel and Dina Arroyo-Tantoco of the Office of the Social Secretary with Avel Bacudio.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_147824" align="aligncenter" width="525"] THE designer with Grace Bernardo Chan.[/caption] The fashion show that was recently held at the Goldenberg Museum, under the auspices of the Office of the First Lady, with the Office of the Social Secretary providing a multi-faceted back-up, was a spectacle in black and white as interpreted by Avel Bacudio whose creations paid tribute to the handiwork of Filipino artisans all over the country. Each piece of clothing modeled by legislators and cabinet secretaries, their wives, key officials of the executive branch, and scions of political families, all clients of Avel, manifested the virtuosity of the iconic designer who chose to downplay extravagance and over-the-top ornamentation by focusing on well-defined structure, casual elegance, comfortability and versatility, the last allowing the wearers to mix and match to suit the occasion. [caption id="attachment_147820" align="aligncenter" width="525"] DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco and Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_147816" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ACTOR-MODEL Jerome Ponce and Cong. Linabelle Villarica, 4th District of Bulacan.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_147822" align="aligncenter" width="525"] KATRINA Ponce Enrile, Administrator, Cagayan Economic Zone Authority.[/caption] Goldenberg Mansion, in all its splendor, served as a fitting yet contrasting backdrop to Avel’s functionality, simplicity and orderly geometric configurations. The book, Avel, Ladies in the Palace, quotes the Bicolano designer who laments, “The local weavers and their craft are dying out and they are unable to pass it on to the next generation. This is where I found the passion to do what I can, as a designer, to help this craft alive.” His intention looks beyond the communities where these beautiful fabrics originate and reveals his deep longing to present the best of Filipino craftsmanship to the international community. He admits to being “challenged to bring their weaves into the modern world but going beyond the ordinary. I turned my focus towards elevating them into pieces worthy of the global stage while still paying tribute to their stories and the craft.” On his part, Ilocos Norte Representative Sandro Marcos, who supported the book project, describes Avel as “a highly accomplished and extraordinary fashion designer.” He enumerates his distinctions, namely, “more than 20 years of successful career; extensive and impressive client list; and numerous awards including Metro Magazine’s 2012 Breakthrough Designer and Asia’s Most Influential Designer in 2014 at the Mercedes-Benz Style Fashion Week in Malaysia.” [caption id="attachment_147825" align="aligncenter" width="452"] Yeye Vivas, Chief of Staff of Congressman Sandro Marcos.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_147814" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PCOO Secretary Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_147823" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Marga Montemayor Nograles, COO, Tourism Promotions Board.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_147819" align="aligncenter" width="377"] CONGRESSMAN Migz Villafuerte, 5th District of Camarines Sur.[/caption] On these pages are Avel’s creations as modeled by dazzling personalities in government and society, as well as the personal choices of guests, celebrities and achievers too, and Malacanang insiders from their respective closets. Fittingly, everyone arrived in their black and white outfits, eager and ready to be impressed by what the designer had been up to in the past months. Avel Bacudio did not disappoint them. [caption id="attachment_147826" align="aligncenter" width="525"] XAVIER Tengco[/caption] [caption id="attachment_147835" align="aligncenter" width="525"] DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. and Vice Mayor Menchie Abalos.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_147817" align="aligncenter" width="641"] Atty. Joeie Domingo, Undersecretary, Special Assistant to the President.[/caption] The post Avel: A Book, A Fashion Show, A Filipino Designer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marina proposes extension office in Camarines Norte
The Maritime Industry Authority has proposed the establishment of an extension office in Camarines Norte to enhance the accessibility and delivery of maritime services in the province. Atty. Maximo Banares Jr., director of Marina Regional Office V, held discussions with Camarines Norte Governor Ricarte R. Padilla on 19 June 2023 to explore the feasibility of the initiative. By establishing an extension office in Camarines Norte, Marina seeks to bring its services closer to the local community. This move will provide convenient access to essential training programs and licensing procedures for boat operators, captains, and motormen, according to the agency. Moreover, vessel owners will benefit from a simplified and efficient registration process. Further, the two officials also discussed Marina measures to improve the safety of lives and property at sea. These include conducting Modified Basic Safety Training to improve the skills and knowledge of individuals involved in maritime activities. Additionally, Marina is focused on licensing boat captains and motormen to ensure competent professionals are operating vessels, leading to safer journeys at sea. Furthermore, the registration of vessels enables better monitoring and regulation of maritime activities, contributing to the protection of the marine environment. The post Marina proposes extension office in Camarines Norte appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Celebrating independence, overcoming challenges
We all wish for the good health of our loved ones. It would pain anyone to see their family members, friends or partners suffering through disease, more so if they cannot receive adequate medical attention due to financial constraints or inaccessible health services. Unfortunately, many poor Filipinos and those living in remote areas face precisely this dilemma. As we go around the country, I have personally witnessed the dire need to make medical assistance and health services — both basic and specialized — more accessible to Filipinos. That is why as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, I continue to push for initiatives to improve healthcare access, including the establishment of more Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers and Regional Specialty Centers. Just last on Friday, 9 June, I was honored to lead the inauguration of the 158th Malasakit Center at the Diosdado P. Macapagal Memorial Hospital in Guagua, Pampanga, together with our new Health Secretary, Teodoro Herbosa, as well as local leaders led by Governor Dennis Pineda and Vice Governor Lilia Pineda, among others. The Malasakit Center aims to streamline and expedite the delivery of medical assistance particularly to poor patients by consolidating the programs of various government agencies under one roof. Launched in 2018, it was later institutionalized under the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which I principally authored and sponsored in the Senate. According to the DOH, over seven million Filipinos nationwide have benefited from the program so far. During the inauguration, my team and I also aided 120 in-patients, 174 out-patients, and 378 front liners at the hospital. Additionally, a team from the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended assistance to qualified patients. On the same day, we visited Bulacan to assist 1,000 students in Guiguinto town with Mayor Agay Cruz and Congressman Boy Cruz, as well as 1,465 struggling Bulakeños in Meycauayan City. We also attended the ribbon-cutting and blessing of the city’s Super Health Center together with Mayor Henry Villarica. I have also long been advocating for the establishment of more Super Health Centers throughout the country. Through the efforts of our fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, as the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. While our Super Health Centers bring basic health services closer to Filipinos, especially in remote areas, I am hopeful that we could also soon provide our kababayans improved access to specialized medical services following the recent ratification of the Bicameral Conference Report on the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which I authored and principally sponsored. If enacted, it will bring key medical services closer to the people by establishing specialty centers that cater to specific medical needs in different regions. Meanwhile, we have also continued distributing aid to many indigent Filipinos in various regions. On 5 June, I was in Digos City, Davao del Sur, with Mayor Josef Cagas and other local leaders to aid 1,500 indigents and witness the groundbreaking of its Super Health Center. We were in Agusan del Norte with Governor Angel Amante-Matba the following day, where we attended the groundbreaking of the Super Health Center in Las Nieves and inspected the ongoing construction of the Las Nieves Bridge. We then added 1,500 indigents in the town before visiting the Butuan City Super Health Center. We likewise assisted 2,000 residents in the city. Following this, I attended the annual general assembly of the Philippine League of Secretaries to Sanggunian Inc. in Davao City. Iloilo was our next destination where we attended the groundbreaking of the Barotac Viejo Super Health Center on 7 June and provided aid to 1,000 indigents in the town. I was also invited by Congressman Boboy Tupas and Mayor Bongbong Tupas to inspect the town’s new fire station. That day, we assisted 1,897 typhoon victims in Banate. We then made our way to Silay City in Negros Occidental, where we participated in the groundbreaking of a Super Health Center, dropped by the Teresita L. Jalandoni Provincial Hospital where I was instrumental in funding the construction of its new building, and extended aid to 2,000 underprivileged residents. Additionally, we joined in the commemoration of Silay City’s Charter Anniversary led by Mayor Joedith Gallego as we attended the PWD Sitting Volleyball event where I highlighted our efforts for more inclusive sports development programs as Chair of the Senate Sports Committee. On 8 June, we helped 1,493 beneficiaries in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, in partnership with Governor Oyie Umali, Mayor Vianne Cuevas, Congressman GP Padiernos, and other local leaders. That same day, we aided 1,160 indigents in Quezon City with Cong. Marivic Pilar-Co. On 9 June, together with Senator Robin Padilla and in partnership with Governor Luigi Villafuerte, Congressman Lray Villafuerte, and Congressman Migz Villafuerte, we distributed aid to 2,699 indigents in Pili, Camarines Sur. That day, we attended the groundbreaking of the Super Health Center in Talisay, Camarines Norte, with Mayor Dondon Mancenido, where we likewise assisted 1,500 residents. Together with Governor Dong Padilla, I conducted a monitoring visit to the Malasakit Center at the Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital in Daet, Camarines Norte, where we aided 262 patients and 811 front liners. Finally, I headed back to Davao City to attend the 2023 Mindanao League of Municipalities of the Philippines Convention. Meanwhile, my office separately aided 186 fire victims in Quezon City, 41 in Caloocan City, 76 in Parañaque City, and 10 in Baguio City. Likewise helped were 1,015 indigents in Alitagtag, Batangas; 1,500 in Cabanatuan City and 1,040 in General Mamerto Natividad, Nueva Ecija; 500 in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte; 360 in Culasi, Antique; 150 in Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte; 53 in Iba and 13 in Botolan, Zambales; 1,620 in San Vicente, Camarines Norte; 380 Tesda graduates in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu; and 90 indigent couples in Baroy, Lanao del Norte. My team likewise witnessed the groundbreaking of the Super Health Centers in Barangay Talon-talon, Zamboanga City on 6 June, and Mabuhay, Zamboanga Sibugay on 8 June. As we commemorate Philippine Independence Day this Monday and celebrate the heroism and sacrifices of our forefathers to gain the liberties we enjoy today, I hope we can take this time to come together and exert efforts to help free more Filipinos from disease, poverty, and other challenges that beset our society today. The post Celebrating independence, overcoming challenges appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go returns to Bicol to help various sectoral groups in Camarines Sur
Showing his commitment to bring public service closer to Bicolanos in need, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go returns to Bicol region to personally lead a relief distribution for indigents from various sectors in Camarines Sur on Saturday, June 10. Last June 3, Go visited the Malasakit Center at the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City where he checked on its operations and provided assistance to both patients and frontliners. Additionally, he participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Super Health Center in the same city and attended the Bicol Social Media Summit. He also inspected the by-pass road which was initiated during the Duterte administration through his support. This time, Go went back to Camarines Sur to help thousands of indigents in the province. Held at the Fuerte Sports Complex in Pili, Go and his team distributed food packs, masks, vitamins, snacks and shirts to 2,699 residents, composed of 1,247 fisherfolks and 1,452 students. They also provided select individuals with shoes, shirts, watch, bicycles, cellular phones, and balls for basketball and volleyball. Meanwhile, representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance to the beneficiaries. Go was joined by fellow Senator Robinhood Padilla, Camarines Sur 2nd District Representative Luis Raymund Villafuerte, 5th District Representative Miguel Villafuerte, Bicol Saro Party-list Representative Brian Yamsuan, Governor Luigi Villafuerte, Vice Governor Sal Fortuno, Jr., Libmanan Mayor Jes Camara, Calabanga Mayor Eugene Severo, Baao Mayor Jeff Besinio, Canaman Mayor Nelson Legaspi, and Gainza Mayor Leonardo Agor, among others. During the activity, local leaders and beneficiaries took a moment to express their gratitude to Go by singing him a birthday song to mark his upcoming birthday on June 14. Appreciative of their gesture, Go conveyed his thanks and proceeded to emphasize the importance of addressing their immediate needs, particularly the provision of nourishment to those in dire situations. "Mayroon rin po kaming dalang grocery packs para sa inyong lahat ngayong araw na ito. Madadala n'yo po pag-uwi ang grocery packs... May dala rin po kaming vitamins, pampalakas ng inyong resistensya. Kapag malakas ang inyong resistensya, mas lalaban po ang inyong katawan kontra sakit," urged Go. As chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go also reached out to individuals with medical issues, urging them to visit the Malasakit Centers located at the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City and the Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center in Cabusao. The Malasakit Centers program, which was initiated by Go in 2018, was later institutionalized through the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019 that he principally authored and sponsored. The program aims to facilitate easy access to various medical assistance programs provided by the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. There are currently 158 Malasakit Centers operating nationwide, successfully aiding over seven million Filipinos, according to the DOH. Continuing his message, Go also emphasized the significance of Super Health Centers which he initiated and continues to champion to bridge the healthcare gap especially in grassroots communities. Through the concerted efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funding has been allocated for the construction of 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and additional 322 centers in 2023. The DOH, as the lead implementing agency, identifies strategic areas where these centers will be built. In Camarines Sur alone, 18 Super Health Centers have been funded for construction in 2022 and 2023. Super Health Centers are designed to provide basic health services, including database management, outpatient care, birthing facilities, isolation units, diagnostic services (such as laboratory tests, X-rays, and ultrasounds), pharmacies, and ambulatory surgical units. In addition, specialized services like eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) care, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine capabilities for remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will also be available. Go, in his capacity as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, also supported a range of projects aimed at improving the province's infrastructure. These included the construction of the Mabolo - Almeda Bypass Road in Naga City. Additionally, Go was instrumental in enhancing the San Fernando Sports Complex in San Fernando, Camarines Sur, improving the Bula and Nabua Section channel, and construction of the Lalud - Garchitorena Road, among others. After his visit to Camarines Sur, Go immediately proceeded to Camarines Norte for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Super Health Center in Talisay town where he also aided struggling residents. The senator also paid a visit to the Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital in Daet to check on the operations of the Malasakit Center there and aid patients and frontliners in the hospital. The post Bong Go returns to Bicol to help various sectoral groups in Camarines Sur appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go condemns killing of radio broadcaster in Oriental Mindoro
In response to the killing of a radio broadcaster in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, Sen. Bong Go expressed his strong condemnation of the act and called for justice to be served. The victim, Cresenciano Bunduquin, a well-known radio broadcaster and commentator, was shot dead by two assailants while opening his sari-sari store on 5 May. One of the suspects, Narciso Ignacio Guntan, died after Bunduquin’s son chased and hit the motorcycle that the former was driving. However, the gunman responsible for the shooting fled the crime scene and has been evading capture. Authorities said that they have already identified the gunman and will soon be apprehended. During an ambush interview after personally aiding indigents in Naga City, Camarines Sur on 3 June, Go recognized the sacrifices made by media workers who often put themselves on the frontlines to bring news to the public. He stressed the importance of delivering justice for the slain journalist and called on the Philippine National Police, the National Bureau of Investigation, and all law enforcement agencies to swiftly investigate the case and hold the perpetrators accountable. "Kinokondena po natin ito, 'yung pagpatay po ng mga media na nagtatrabaho lang po. Sila nga po ang nagdadala ng balita," Go stressed. "Alam n'yo, panahon ng pandemya, panahon ng bagyo, sila po ang nagdadala ng magagandang balita at accurate information," he added. Police authorities have stated that Bunduquin did not receive any death threats prior to the incident. Additionally, investigators have disclosed that the suspect who was killed had prior involvement in drug-related activities. The post Bong Go condemns killing of radio broadcaster in Oriental Mindoro appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Public service without break
I am proud of the hard work that we have all put into advancing legislative measures with the common goal of providing a safer and better life for Filipinos While we are now on our session break, I believe that there can be no pause in our duties as public servants The Senate adjourned sine die last 31 May 31 its First Regular Session of the 19th Congress. Our first such session under the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., I am proud of the hard work that we have all put into advancing legislative measures with the common goal of providing a safer and better life for Filipinos. Six of the proposed measures that hurdled the Senate are now laws, including several of my co-authored and co-sponsored bills, such as the SIM Registration Act, postponement of the December 2022 Barangay and SK Elections, and naturalization of our national basketball team key player, Justin Brownlee. Senate Bill 1849, which I co-sponsored, has also been enacted, amending certain provisions of Republic Act No. 11709 to establish a fixed term and retirement age for some officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines that would hopefully better promote their welfare. I likewise co-sponsored RA 11938, converting the municipality of Carmona, Cavite into a city. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, I am also particularly happy that the Bicameral Conference Report on our proposed Regional Specialty Centers Act has already been ratified, marking a significant milestone towards improving access to specialized healthcare across the country. As the principal sponsor of the measure, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of establishing more specialty centers in various regions to ensure that our Filipinos have better access to the specialized medical services they require. This measure is a steadfast commitment, and a collective vision to improve our healthcare system. It is our people’s experiences and stories that have driven us to aim for a healthcare system that is compassionate, accessible, and designed to meet the needs of Filipinos. Likewise approved on third and final reading in the Senate are several bills that I co-authored and co-sponsored, such as: (1) the proposed Walkable and Bikeable Communities Act which seeks to establish safe routes for cyclists, pedestrians, and slow vehicles across the entire country; (2) Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act which aims to institutionalize the grant of a teaching allowance for public school teachers; (3) No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act which seeks to protect students from preventing them in taking exams due to outstanding financial obligations; (4) New Agrarian Emancipation Act which seeks to condone almost P58 billion worth of loans that agrarian reform beneficiaries incurred in owning lands under the government’s agrarian reform programs; (5) Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act which aims to stimulate economic growth for decent job generation; and (6) Senate Bill No. 2021 which aims to improve the competitiveness of MSMEs by granting them access to shared facilities and services, technology, and skills training. The proposed National Day for Awareness on the Hijab and Other Traditional Garments and Attire Act, and the Cultural Mapping Act, which I both co-authored, have also hurdled the Senate. Meanwhile, I likewise filed several other measures in a bid to bring services closer to our people, especially the needy, the hopeless, and the helpless. These include bills establishing Mental Health Offices in higher educational institutions, mandating financial literacy and entrepreneurship as core subjects in the junior and senior high school curricula, and institutionalizing a technical-vocational program specifically for rehabilitated drug dependents. To improve the resilience of the agricultural sector, I also filed a bill seeking to provide immediate financial assistance to ARBs in the event of natural calamities and another measure that proposes to expand the services of the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation and encourage private sector participation in agricultural insurance. Among others, I also filed bills seeking to institutionalize the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH), a flagship housing program of President Marcos, Jr.; establish a comprehensive framework to accelerate infrastructure flagship programs; strengthen our coast guard; better protect our kasambahays, freelance and media workers; and provide equitable incentives to our para-athletes. After a hectic yet fruitful legislative year, I continue to personally visit our kababayans in need to provide the necessary aid. On June 1, I was in Samal, Bataan with my team to witness the groundbreaking of the town’s Super Health Center and distribute aid to 500 of its struggling residents. We also visited Balanga City to provide similar assistance to 1,008 indigents. Batangas was our destination the following day where I inspected the Super Health Center and a multipurpose building which will be the new municipal hall in Ibaan. I also led relief operations for 1,000 of my fellow Batanguenos in Ibaan and 1,086 in Sta. Teresita. Meanwhile, I was in Naga City, Camarines Sur on June 3 where I attended the 1st Bicol Social Media Summit and assisted 1,500 indigent residents. I then conducted a monitoring visit to the Malasakit Center at the Bicol Medical Center in the city and likewise aided 824 patients and 2,702 frontliners. The DSWD also committed to providing financial assistance to qualified beneficiaries. Thereafter, I inspected a bypass road in the city, a project I also supported as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance. Across the country, my outreach teams aided 5,102 Typhoon Agaton victims in Banate, Iloilo; 170 fire-hit families in Parañaque City; five fire-hit families in Cotabato City and three more in Catbalogan City, Samar. Indigent families were also aided, including 420 in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija; 598 in Socorro, Surigao del Norte; 1,000 in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur; 40 in Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte; 520 in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur; 180 in Sibalom, Antique; 518 in Kalibo, Aklan; 83 TESDA graduates in Carcar City, Cebu; and 408 barangay health workers in Sariaya, Quezon. My staff likewise attended the groundbreaking of the Super Health Center in Socorro, Surigao del Norte. While we are now on our session break, I believe that there can be no pause in our duties as public servants. As we have always done and as we are mandated to do, we should continue spending the days ahead trying to help uplift the lives of our Filipino people. The post Public service without break appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Betty’ accelerates over the waters east of Aparri, Cagayan
Typhoon Betty slightly accelerates northwestward at 20 kilometers per hour over the waters east of Cagayan according to Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. The state weather bureau said in its bulletin on Monday, 29 May that the typhoon was located 525 km east of Aparri, Cagayan as of 4:00 am. “Betty” is packing maximum sustained winds of 155 km/h and gustiness of up to 190 km/h, the bulletin added. “BETTY will move generally northwestward slowly today and may become slow-moving or almost stationary from tomorrow to mid-Wednesday while over the waters east of Batanes,” PAGASA said. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 has been raised over Batanes, the eastern portion of Babuyan Islands (Babuyan Islands, Camiguin Islands, Didicas Islands, Pamuktan Islands), and the northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan (Santa Ana). Meanwhile, Signal No. 1 is raised over the rest of Babuyan Islands, the rest of mainland Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, the northeastern portion of Nueva Vizcaya (Kasibu, Quezon, Solano, Bagabag, Diadi, Villaverde, Bayombong, Ambaguio), Apayao, Abra, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, the northern and central portions of Aurora (Dilasag, Casiguran, Dinalungan, Dipaculao, Baler), Polillo Islands, the northern portion of Catanduanes (Caramoran, Viga, Gigmoto, Panganiban, Bagamanoc, Pandan), the northeastern portion of Camarines Sur (Caramoan, Garchitorena, Lagonoy, Tinambac, Siruma), and the northern portion of Camarines Norte (Vinzons, Paracale, Jose Panganiban, Capalonga, Talisay, Daet, Mercedes, Basud). A marine gale warning remains in effect over the northern and eastern seaboards of Northern Luzon, eastern seaboards of Central Luzon, the eastern and southern seaboards of Southern Luzon, the eastern and western seaboards of Visayas, and the eastern seaboard of Mindanao. “The typhoon will turn north northeastward or northeastward on late Wednesday or Thursday and gradually accelerate towards the waters east of Taiwan and the southern portion of Ryukyu Islands. BETTY may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Friday,” PAGASA said. The post ‘Betty’ accelerates over the waters east of Aparri, Cagayan appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tereso Panga: PEZA’s homegrown leader
By combining his excellent communication skills, commitment to serving his country, and his long experience as a government executive, Tereso O. Panga, director-general of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, has distinguished himself as a public servant. His recent appointment to this top post in an agency that has contributed significantly to the coffers of the national government affirms the confidence of the current national leadership in his excellent record, high acceptance of his fellow workers in the bureaucracy, and, most importantly, his credibility in the trade and industry sector, the number one partner of PEZA in pushing development forward. Tereso joined the Philippine government armed with an educational background that has proved vital toward his understanding of human nature, whether he is dealing with executives of multinational companies that are locators in economic zones or their workers. At the University of the Philippines, he first graduated with a BA in Comparative Literature and then obtained his master’s degree in Industrial Relations. “Since my father was a judge, I wanted to take up Law. I was told that the best prelaw course was AB English since one needed to be both articulate and proficient in writing. I eventually majored in Comparative Literature.” Among his professors were the legendary masters of language like National Artists Franz Arcellana and Jimmy Abad, Thelma Kintanar and Nieves Epistola. He found UP both challenging and rewarding. He adapted to the rigors of academic life, he said, “owing to my strong educational foundation first at the Naga Parochial School, and then Ateneo de Naga.” Strong-willed in a quiet way The Pangas, he said, “are original families of Bicol, particularly Camarines Sur in Iriga town, where the superstar Nora Aunor grew up. He admitted to singing a little, but not with the same intensity as that of his golden-voiced townsman. Coming from Pili town, he swore by Pili being a favorite of his. The basic trait that stood him in good stead “in UP and in future challenges,” he said, “is my being a Bicolano. Born and raised in Bicol, I am strong-willed, resilient, and yet determined. But in a quiet way.” Asked if it also meant being feared, he said, “Well, just spicy, which can be fierce, but wonderful like laing (taro leaves stewed in coconut oil and garnished with red hot chili).” The fourth among eight children of a judge, six of whom graduated from the University of the Philippines, he recalled being a “playful child, but at a young age, I was already into music. I loved playing the guitar and keyboards, but it was all by ear or ‘oido.’” To balance his artistic inclination, he also engaged in sports — chess and table tennis. Not much of a student politician, he nevertheless became president of one organization. His twin brother and another brother were officers of the student government, “so it would not look good if I became an officer too.” In UP, he joined the Upsilon Sigma Phi in 1986. He also became active in UP Ibalon, an organization of Bicolanos, and the Psychology Society of UP. When it came to campus politics, he supported the Tugon party. While he earned good grades, despite giving more than ample time to his extracurricular activities, he felt he could have done better. “By any standards, I don’t think I did well as a student because I extended my stay for another year.” “My Waterloo was Math,” he confided. “I had no need for Math in my BA English course but I was hoping to shift to Economics. The hardest subject for me was Math 17.” A good writer While he was exposed to creative writing, he learned more about how to do business letters. “Of course, I wrote my thesis,” he emphasized. Fast forward to the future, he joined an Aboitiz- sponsored pilot class at the Development Academy of the Philippines that was attended by undersecretaries and assistant secretaries where he was the most junior. To his credit, his capstone paper on aquamarine and renewable energy, a pioneering venture in ecozone development, was declared the best. It was an achievement that he attributed to his exposure to composition writing at UP. Not much of a student politician, he nevertheless became president of one organization. Later, he would make his own reports and speeches, while reaching out to the various publics of PEZA through Facebook and online media. To recall, he had begun his professional life in the office of then-Congressman Aping Yap of Tarlac. “I stayed for seven years and then moved to the office of his son, Victor, who was then Vice Mayor. We organized and managed social development projects benefitting families of former Hukbalahap commanders and foot soldiers.” It was while inspecting his company’s construction project, a bowling center along Roxas Boulevard, that he came upon the headquarters of the Export Processing Zone Authority. “I had heard already of this government office and its hardworking Director General, Atty. Lilia de Lima. She was the first DG. I walked in and I applied. They called me to take the exams and go through an interview.” In less than a month, he joined PEZA in 1998. Walking the talk He has been with PEZA for 25 years. While he describes his PEZA career as “going up through the ranks,” his rise had been quite swift. He started as a planning officer 3 and went on to become Assistant Division Chief for policy and planning. By then, he had earned units leading to his master’s degree at the University of the Philippines. In time, he passed the qualifications for the Career Executive Service office, one of the youngest of his rank, and soon went up to positions requiring more responsibilities. At age 30, became the zone manager for the Batangas Economic Zone. Next, he became Zone Administrator in Baguio where he stayed for four years. He was 34 years old. “It was the time when Texas Instruments was expanding. Our office facilitated the Big Ticket Project in Clark.” His next assignment was in Cavite where he occupied the concurrent positions of Zone Manager and Administrator. He was 38 and his post required dealing with 350 locator companies. It was not surprising that the Civil Service Commission included him as a finalist in its search for outstanding Civil Service Executives. He ranked second. Soon, he returned to the Manila office, this time as Deputy Director General of Policy and Planning in 2010. It was a post that would prepare him for the highest position in the agency. At first, he served in an OIC capacity until March this year, when he was appointed as Director General by President Ferdinand R. Marcos. Panga had the support of captains of industry, among them the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry bigwigs Sergio Luis Ortiz and George Barcelon, who expressed their belief in his leadership based on his accomplishments. It has indeed been a long way for the young man from Bicol who has preferred to be “low-key” and not one to make a spectacle of his career success. It is an attitude that, he said, “I inherited from my parents, who were both public servants.” His father was a provincial judge and his mother was a public school teacher. “My mother was particular about the discipline of her children.” In keeping with his unassuming attitude, his management style is anchored on “keeping it simple by walking the talk.” I would say it is more of a transformational leadership. Because I can walk the talk I don’t need to direct people. “So, when you want to achieve something, you lead by setting an example. The direction is also clear so there are no misunderstandings or misinterpretation of the goals and objectives of the agency.” “Let’s not get distracted. Let’s just focus on doing our work,” he once told the top officials of PEZA. “Even when I was the OIC, I was presiding over a board meeting composed of 10 full-fledged Undersecretaries. Thankfully, as an insider, and being home-grown, I know how to navigate. My edge is I did not need to have a learning curve.” As part of his job, he has been traveling to promote international investments in the country. “We are always on a trade mission, showing the rest of the world what we can offer. Many of those President Marcos talked to have signed up as locators.” Through it all, he has kept the lines between work and family life. He found a lifetime partner in a lady I met because we were both working in the same building on Quezon Avenue. Happily married He was 26 years old when he married his wife, Edna, a 23-year-old Bulakena who belongs to the politically prominent Pagtalunan family of Guiguinto town. At that time, she was working in an export company. “It was love at first sight,” he recalled. “I was the only suitor not afraid of her father who was a barangay captain. I’d bring a fighting cock for him when I was courting his daughter, even if I was not an enthusiast.” “As I got to know her better, I became more enamored because she was sweet and she knew how to cook. And to this day, she does soups very well, which I love.” All said by a man who has found fulfillment at home and in the office. He is special and has found his mission in life and for his country, which can be said of Panga. And this country, in turn, is fortunate to have such a man serving in an agency that contributes billions to the government coffers. Officials of such caliber, enthusiasm, zeal, and upright moral bearing make this country a better place to live in and a magnet for international investors. The post Tereso Panga: PEZA’s homegrown leader appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»