Cortes signs EO amending schedule of Mandaue City Public Market
MANDAUE CITY, Philippines – Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes has issued Executive Order no. 01 series of 2021 on Friday, January 15, 2021, amending portions of Section 1 of EO no. 71 series of 2020 on the removal of barricades and Section 3 of EO no. 83 series of 2020 amending the schedule of operations […] The post Cortes signs EO amending schedule of Mandaue City Public Market appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Phl Army belies abduction of 3 IP advocates; insists “they were NPAs”
The Philippine Army on Thursday belied reports that soldiers abducted three individuals “falsely identified” as Indigenous People’s defenders, insisting that they were members of the New People’s Army. Bgen Randolph Cabangbang, commander of the PA’s 203rd Infantry Battalion-2nd Infantry Division lambasted the Karapatan Group for accusing the military of abducting Alia Encelo, Job Abednego David, and Peter Del Monte. Cabangbang said the Karapatan’s claims on the disappearance of supposed rights advocates are “distorted and full of lies.” Karapatan group condemned the arrest of three personalities who were conducting a probe on “human rights violations in connection to reports of bombings and shelling by the 203rd IB around the area earlier this year.” In response, Cabangbang said the three individuals "were captured and arrested” during a legitimate military operation in Barangay Lisap, Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro on 23 September. He then insisted that the three individuals were members of the NPA’s Main Regional Guerrilla Unit as he cited the guerilla’s combatant profile and gallery. “During the capture, they attempted to resist and reach for some objects inside their bags and upon seeing that they have been surrounded, decided to heed the soldiers' call not to move anymore,” he said. “They were in possession of improvised landmines and grenades inside their bags that they probably planned to use in ambushing government troops,” he added. The Army official said the three would be facing charges of violating Republic Act 9516 (An act Further Amending the Provisions of PD No. 1866, As Amended, Entitled to Codifying the Laws on Illegal/Unlawful Possession, Manufacture, Dealing in, Acquisition or Disposition of Firearms, Ammunition or Explosives or Instruments Used in the Manufacture of Firearms, Ammunition or Explosives, and Imposing Stiffer Penalties for Certain Violations Thereof, and For Other Relevant Purposes) and Violation of Section 4(a) and 4(d), Republic Act No. 11479 (Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020). Cabangbang said one of the captured, Alia Encelo, 19, was an active member of Gabriela Youth prior to joining the NPA in January this year. While Job Abednego David and Peter Del Monte, both 29 years old, have been with the NPA for more than 6 years, he added. “Job, from Quezon City, is a Fine Arts student at a prestigious school, and Peter, a high school drop-out from Tondo, Manila. They were later on identified by former rebels, who have surrendered, to be NPA members," Cabangbang said. “The captured rebels claimed that they have been in hiding for months, owing to the continuous military operations, and have not eaten a decent meal for two months,” he added. The post Phl Army belies abduction of 3 IP advocates; insists “they were NPAs” appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bring public health services closer
“Health is the greatest of human blessings,” according to Hippocrates, father of Modern Medicine. That is why we continue to make significant strides in improving our health system. The latest of which is the signing into law of the Regional Specialty Centers Act. As the principal sponsor and one of the authors of this measure, I am grateful to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., for approving and prioritizing this legislation which will help bring specialized medical care closer to Filipinos in various regions, and hopefully to the most vulnerable groups in grassroots communities. As we aim to make public health more accessible, we must continue such efforts to ensure all Filipinos get the healthcare they deserve. In line with this, the Malasakit Centers we initiated in 2018 have already provided financial medical assistance to more than seven million patients so far. There are 158 Malasakit centers established all over the country through the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which I principally authored and sponsored in the Senate. I have also continuously pushed for the establishment of Super Health Centers, which are medium versions of a polyclinic and improved versions of the rural health unit, to make healthcare more accessible to Filipinos even in remote areas. These centers, funded with the help of my fellow legislators and primarily implemented by the Department of Health, shall provide primary health care services in communities that also include consultation, diagnosis, and early detection of diseases. As chair of the Senate Health Committee, I must emphasize the need to bring public health services closer to the people who need them the most. The enactment of the Regional Specialty Centers Act, along with the continuing operations of Malasakit Centers and the establishment of more Super Health Centers nationwide will hopefully bridge this gap and further promote the health and well-being of Filipinos no matter where they are in the country. As a legislator and public servant, I will continue to help improve public service delivery at the grassroots to the best of my capacity so that no Filipino is neglected when it comes to availing government services they need. That is why aside from the health initiatives mentioned above, I also continue to visit communities to deliver assistance, listen to their concerns, and provide solutions to their daily struggles. We were in Laguna on August 25 to inspect the Siniloan Sports Complex which was funded through our efforts as part of our goal as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports to promote grassroots sports development and divert our youth from harmful vices like illegal drugs. We then inspected the Isolation Facility of the Infirmary Hospital which we supported during the Duterte administration. We also led the distribution of aid to 500 impoverished residents of Siniloan together with Vice Governor Karen Agapay, Mayor Patrick Go, Vice Mayor Carla Valderrama, and other local officials. Last weekend, I also joined fellow officials and basketball enthusiasts alike in supporting Gilas Pilipinas during the 2023 FIBA World Cup. I commend everyone who took part in ensuring the successful hosting of the FIBA World Cup here in the Philippines. We were invited as a guest speaker on 24 August at the Gender and Development Activity organized by the Provincial Council of Occidental Mindoro. We support these kinds of discussions that aim to promote equal and gender-sensitive leadership. On 23 August, I received the prestigious Apostle Arsenio Ferriol Award of Excellence for Public Service and Governance. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch) for this very prestigious recognition. With or without an award, I will continue my mission to serve fellow Filipinos, knowing very well that service to the people is service to God. Aside from the awarding ceremony, I also joined them yesterday for their 50th Golden Church Anniversary celebration in New Clark City, Tarlac. I also visited Navotas City on 22 August, together with Mayor John Rey Tiangco and Vice Mayor Tito Sanchez to help 1,000 senior citizens, PWDs, and indigents. We also provided additional support to 1,328 recovering fire victims who were given aid from the National Housing Authority to buy housing materials through their Emergency Housing Assistance Program that we initiated before and continue to support its implementation now. We were also instrumental in the construction of nine public school buildings in Navotas City, some of which we were able to inspect during our visit. My office also continues to assist Filipinos affected by calamities. Among those assisted were typhoon victims in various towns in Cagayan — 500 in Gonzaga; 500 residents in Aparri; 500 in Allacapan; 500 in Pamplona; 500 in Ballesteros; and 500 more in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. More support was also provided for 35 indigents from different towns of Cotabato Province plus 110 sectoral members in Libungan town; three fire victims of Brgy. Peñaplata in Samal Island; 1,000 residents of Sibalom and almost 250 in Tobias Fornier in Antique; 1,000 beneficiaries in Polomolok, South Cotabato; 66 residents of Malolos Bulacan; 31 residents of General Tinio and 140 more in Gapan, Nueva Ecija. We also extended livelihood support to 14 indigents in Cauayan, Negros Occidental; three farmers in San Lorenzo, Guimaras; and 52 residents of Brgy. Tisa, Cebu City who were previously victims of a fire incident. They were also provided aid through DTI’s Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program, which I pushed for before and continue to support now to boost the livelihood of those affected by various crises. Furthermore, I am also thankful to the President for signing the following into law: Republic Act No. 11961, which I co-authored, amending the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, and mandates the creation of a Philippine Registry of Heritage; RA 11958, which I co-authored, that amends RA 6948 to rationalize the disability pension provided to military veterans; and the One Town, One Product Philippines Program, which I authored and co-sponsored, to support the growth of the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises. While we have accomplished a lot in the past few days in helping those in need and pushing for policies that would uplift the lives of fellow Filipinos, our work must not stop as long as there are more of our kababayans who rely on us for support. As public servants, let us continue to bring the government and its services closer to the people while working together so that no one is left behind toward recovery and progress. The post Bring public health services closer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A shared ambition
The Department of Health, World Health Organization, United Nations Children’s Fund, donor governments, the private sector, and civil societies converged to deliver urgent actions to close the child immunization gap. The summit, “Closing the Immunization Gap,” was participated in by national and local officials, development partners, professional associations, business partners, religious groups, and youth organizations to demonstrate that looking after children’s health and well-being is everyone’s responsibility. It also served as an avenue to secure public commitments and mobilize additional resources to help the DOH accelerate fiscal and legislative reforms, local government action, improvements to vaccine program management, cold chain and supply chain management, and communication and information systems management. Participants discussed needed reforms in immunization such as amending the Immunization Law, increasing investments in strengthening primary healthcare as a key platform for immunization services, key health system strengthening building blocks such as human resources and digitalization, deeper involvement of local chief executives, strengthening of the supply chain, and intensifying communication activities, among others. Best practices were also shared, such as the success of the City of Manila in reaching vulnerable populations, and a youth-led initiative to promote children’s immunization during Covid. According to Unicef and the WHO under the estimates of National Immunization Coverage 2022, the Philippines remains among the top five countries with the most number of zero-dose children globally and the greatest contributor to the number of zero-dose children in East Asia and the Pacific. Despite progress in reducing the number of zero-dose or unvaccinated children between 2021 and 2022 from around 1 million to 637,000 children for those born within 2022, more work needs to be done to reach the ideal 95 per cent coverage, especially for those not reached in previous years. “Until all of us come together to mend the gaps in routine immunization coverage, children in the Philippines will remain at risk of contracting and dying from diseases we can prevent. Vaccinating children gives them an added layer of defense against the many vulnerabilities they face, such as a lack of a safe and secure environment, and stable and healthy nutrition. Let’s reignite our shared ambition of leaving no child behind,” said Unicef Philippines Representative Oyunsaikhan Dendevnorov. The post A shared ambition appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UNITED AND PRODUCTIVE House of Representatives
Given its record harvest of legislation, the House of Representatives under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez concluded the First Regular Session of the 19th Congress on a high note. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez Speaker - 19th Congress, House of Representatives First Regular Session Legislative Accomplishments BILLS PASSED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES LEDAC Priority Bills: SIM Registration Act (RA 11934) Postponement of Barangay and SK Elections to October 2023 (RA 11935) Amending the Fixed Term of the AFP Chief of Staff and other High-Ranking Officials (RA 11939) Agrarian Reform Debts Condonation (RA 11953) Maharlika Investment Fund (RA 11954) Magna Carta of Seafarers E-Governance Act / E-Government Act Negros Island Region Virology Institute of the Philippines Passive Income and Financial Intermediary Taxation Act National Disease Prevention Management Authority or Center for Disease Control and Prevention Medical Reserve Corps Philippine Passport Act Internet Transaction Act / E-Commerce Law Waste-to-Energy Bill Free Legal Assistance for Police and Soldiers Apprenticeship Act Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Law Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers Valuation Reform Eastern Visayas Development Authority Leyte Ecological Industrial Zone Government Financial Institutions Unified Initiatives to Distressed Enterprises for Economic Recovery National Citizens Service Training Program Rightsizing the National Government National Land Use Act 30-Year National Infrastructure Program Department of Health Specialty Centers Act/Regional Specialty Hospitals Ease of Paying Taxes Local Government Unit Income Classification Amendment to Universal Health Care Act Bureau of Immigration Modernization Act Philippine Salt Industry Development Act Social Impact Bills: HB 5001 - No exam fees in private HEIs for underprivileged students who rank in the top 10 in high school HB 00005 - On-site, in-city, near city, and off-city resettlement program based on people's plan HB 0227 - Protection and welfare of caregivers HB 00988 - Increasing service incentive leave HB 00454 - Enhanced protection, security, and benefits for media workers HB 4477 - Greater responsibility and accountability from private employment agencies, amending Batas Kasambahay HB 04479 - Expanding prohibited acts of discrimination against women on account of sex, amending Labor Code HB 06416 - Strengthening mental health services of state universities and colleges HB 06483 - Abolition of "no permit, no exam" practice in college HB 06509 - Free legal assistance to uniformed personnel for the performance of duty HB 06492 - Freedom of Religion Act HB 00206 - Lowering the optional retirement age of government workers from 60 to 56 HB 06574 - Promotion and delivery of mental health services in basic education HB 06572 - Establishment of public schools of the future in technology HB 06680 - Free full insurance coverage to all qualified agrarian reform beneficiaries HB 01270 - Protection and promotion of the welfare of workers in the film, television, and radio entertainment industry HB 06716 - Mandating the establishment of fisherfolk resettlement areas HB 06718 - Protection and incentives for freelance workers HB 07354 - Evacuation centers in every city and municipality HB 04605 - Right of married women to retain their maiden surnames HB 06772 - Presidential power to suspend or adjust PhilHealth premium increases HB 07387 - Expanding the services for crop insurance HB 07535 - P1 million for centenarians HB 07561 - Mandatory insurance coverage and benefits for all line workers HB 07584 - Abolition of "no permit, no exam" in elementary and secondary classes HB 07909 - Extension of estate tax amnesty HB 07718 - Strengthening the law against illegal recruitment Quote (SFMGR): “As the House of Representatives amply demonstrated, we remain committed to implementing policies that will further stimulate economic activity, attract investments, and generate employment opportunities for our fellow Filipinos. We will not allow any distraction to derail our efforts at finding appropriate and timely solutions to the problems affecting the lives of our people.” House Leaders: Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio "Dong" D. Puno Deputy Speakers: Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Isidro T. Ungab Roberto V. Puno Camille A. Villar Kristine Singson-Meehan Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza Ralph G. Recto Vincent Franco "Duke" D. Frasco Majority Leader Manuel Jose "Mannix" M. Dalipe Minority Leader Marcelino C. Libanan Senior Deputy Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander "Sandro" A. Marcos The post UNITED AND PRODUCTIVE House of Representatives appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Smuggled tobaccos seized
DAVAO CITY — Authorities confiscated P450,000 worth of smuggled cigarettes at the Sirawan Toril District checkpoint here on Wednesday night. Task Force Davao commander Col. Darren Comia on Thursday reported that authorities confiscated at least 850 reams of illegal items from a certain Salvador Gloria Jr., a resident of E. Rodriguez in Quezon City. The suspect was immediately turned over to the Toril Police Station for proper filing of appropriate charges in of violation of RA 4712 or the Act amending certain sections of Tariff and Customs Code of The Philippines. With the accomplishment, Comia lauded the troops who made the apprehension for their continuous commitment in ensuring that no illegal items and contrabands will get through the city. “The consecutive apprehension in our Entry Points manifested the stringent security checks being implemented by the Security Forces of Davao City to ensure that no illegal items or contrabands will get through the City, for the good of the economy and the City,” said Comia. The post Smuggled tobaccos seized appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go provides support to 1,700 indigent students in Antipolo
The Office of Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, provided assistance to 1,700 indigent students in Antipolo City, Rizal on Thursday, 6 July. Go’s team spearheaded the relief efforts at the Ynares Event Center and handed out snacks, masks, and shirts to the students. The team distributed bicycles, shoes, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select beneficiaries. DSWD representatives also provided educational assistance to qualified beneficiaries. An advocate for quality education and welfare of students in the country, Go has co-sponsored 12 school bills aimed at improving several public schools in the country, as part of his vision to create a better learning environment for students, especially in rural areas. Go also co-authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1359 or the “No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act.” The proposed measure penalizes the imposition of a "no permit, no exam" policy or any similar policy that prohibits students from taking an examination or other similar educational assessments due to unpaid tuition or other school fees. The lawmaker, likewise, co-authored and co-sponsored SBN 1360, which seeks to expand the coverage of the tertiary education subsidy by amending Republic Act No. 10931 or the Universal Access To Quality Tertiary Education Act. The proposed bill expands the eligibility criteria for availing of the TES to include disadvantaged, yet academically competent students, who are enrolling in their first undergraduate post-secondary tertiary education program in private higher educational institutions (PHEIs) and technical-vocational institutions (TVIs). Go also introduced SBN 1190 to expand the purposes and applications of the Special Education Fund (SEF) if enacted into law, proposing its use for the operation and maintenance of public schools, payment of salaries and benefits for teaching and non-teaching personnel, competency training for teaching personnel, operation of the Alternative Learning System, and educational research, among others. The senator also filed SBN 1786 to help address mental health concerns in higher education institutions. He also co-authored SBN 379, also known as the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which aims to provide mental health services, emotional, developmental, and preventive programs, and other support services at the basic education level if enacted into law. As chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go made a commitment to collaborate closely with the local government in safeguarding the health and welfare of Filipinos by enhancing the availability of affordable healthcare. He encouraged individuals with medical conditions as well as the elderly, to visit the nearest Malasakit Center, where they can conveniently access the government's medical assistance programs. The primary aim of the Malasakit Center is to reduce a patient’s hospital bill to the lowest possible amount by covering various services and expenses. There are currently 158 centers nationwide that have assisted over seven million Filipinos, according to the DOH, the closest ones are located at the Antipolo City Hospital System Annex IV, Casimiro A. Ynares Sr. Memorial Hospital in Rodriguez, Bagong Cainta Municipal Hospital, and Margarito A. Duavit Memorial Hospital in Binangonan. “Sa mga pasyente dito, hindi niyo na po kailangang bumiyahe para pumila sa iba’t ibang opisina para makahingi ng tulong mula sa gobyerno. Kung may hospital bill kayo, ilapit niyo lang ‘to sa Malasakit Center. Wala itong pinipili. Basta poor at indigent patient ka, qualified ka,” assured Go, who primarily authored and sponsored the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. Go has also reiterated his appeal to his fellow Filipinos to prioritize their health as he highlighted the services to be offered in Super Health Centers that will be established nationwide. Super Health Centers in the province will be strategically located in Antipolo City, Binangonan, Jala-Jala, Rodriguez, San Mateo, and Taytay. Super Health Centers offer basic services such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center, and telemedicine, through which remote diagnosis and treatment of patients are made possible. An adopted son of the CALABARZON region, Go continues to push for more programs, projects, and initiatives that will benefit local communities. He previously supported the improvement of the road and drainage system in Angono, Rodriguez, and Antipolo City; rehabilitation of the flood control structures along the upper Marikina River in Rodriguez; construction of the Batangas Medical Center Annex in Rodriguez; construction of the Justice Building in Antipolo City; construction and improvement of a multipurpose building and new roads in Baras; and purchase and installation of streetlights in San Mateo. ##### The post Bong Go provides support to 1,700 indigent students in Antipolo appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go bares 629 funded SHCs, cautions tapping nursing grads
Congress has set funding for the construction of more than 600 Super Health Centers nationwide in 2022 and this year, according to Senator Christopher “Bong” Go. The chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography also expressed support for tapping nursing graduates to bolster the country’s dwindling number of hospital workers but advised the Department of Health to proceed with caution to avoid compromising the quality of healthcare service. “With the help of lawmakers, 307 Super Health Centers are funded for year 2022 and another 322 for 2023 in the entire Philippines,” Go said in a video message during his team’s relief distribution mission in Obando, Bulacan on Friday, 23 June. In the province, the cities of San Jose del Monte, Meycauayan and Baliuag; and the towns of Balagtas, Bulakan, San Miguel, Guiguinto and Pandi will have such facilities catering to residents of remote communities under the 2022 national budget, he said. The 2023 budget covers the building of SHCs in Baliuag City and in the towns of Angat, Marilao, Paombong, Plaridel, San Ildefonso and San Rafael, Go added. On 21 June, Go visited San Rafael for the groundbreaking of the town’s SHC and led a relief operation for indigents there. On top of traditional services, SHCs will provide diagnostics; pharmacy, ambulatory surgery; eye, ear, nose, and throat; oncology; physical therapy and rehabilitation and telemedicine services. Go also encouraged Bulakeños to go to Malasakit Centers for their health concerns as there is one such counter at the Bulacan Medical Center in Malolos City, Rogaciano M. Mercado Memorial Hospital in Sta. Maria, and Ospital ng Lungsod ng San Jose del Monte in San Jose del Monte City. The Malasakit Centers, a brainchild of Go, helps patient get help from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office in paying for their medical bills. ‘Uphold professional standards’ Meanwhile, Go urged the DoH to thoroughly study the proposed hiring of unlicensed nurse as there are existing laws and regulations meant to uphold professional standards and protect lives. “They (nursing graduates) must pass the standard,” Go reiterated in an ambush interview after personally aiding victims of the Mount Mayon unrest in Tabaco City, Albay on Thursday, 22 June. “We cannot compromise the standard here because we have to prioritize the life and health of every Filipino.” Earlier, DoH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa proposed that nursing graduates who scored 70 to 74 percent in licensure test be employed as supplementary workforce in the healthcare system but assigned with restricted responsibilities. ‘Nursing graduates who did not pass the board exam cannot be granted temporary or special licenses.’ Herbosa mentioned that Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma is open to the proposal and intends to hold discussions with the Professional Regulation Commission regarding the issuance of temporary licenses for such graduates. The PRC has clarified that nursing graduates who did not pass the board exam cannot be granted temporary or special licenses to work in public hospitals in the absence of a law allowing such. He pointed out that Republic Act 9173 solely provides special or temporary permits for licensed foreign nurses. However, PRC Commissioner Jose Cueto Jr. said that in exceptional circumstances like epidemics or national emergencies, the health secretary may provide limited authorization to medical graduates. Go said he remains open to amending existing laws to strengthen the health workforce while still being compliant with standards. However, the senator emphasized that the goal must be to continue improving medical education in the country to produce enough number of qualified healthcare professionals. Go has filed the Advanced Nursing Education bill that offers leadership roles, specialization and recognition to professional nurses. The measure also integrates community immersion in the nursing curriculum to encourage community service and introduce masteral and doctoral degrees in nursing. The post Go bares 629 funded SHCs, cautions tapping nursing grads appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go lauds TESDA graduates in Carcar City, Cebu
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go congratulated the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) trainees who recently had their graduation ceremony in Carcar City, Cebu on Saturday, June 3. In his video message, the senator took the opportunity to commend the graduates for their dedication and perseverance in completing their training programs, saying, “Binabati ko po ang lahat ng mga graduates ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority ngayong araw na ito. Malaking tagumpay po ito para sa inyong lahat dulot ng inyong mga pagsisikap upang makumpleto ang inyong pag-aaral.” “Habang ipinagdiriwang natin ang inyong graduation, lubos din akong nagpapasalamat sa TESDA dahil matagumpay ito na nakapagbibigay ng mga kakayahan at kasanayan sa ating mga kababayan upang mabigyan sila ng job at livelihood opportunities, at magkaroon ng mas magandang kinabukasan,” he continued. The senator likewise emphasized the importance of vocational education in empowering individuals and uplifting communities. He acknowledged the significant role TESDA plays in providing accessible and quality training programs, equipping Filipinos with the skills needed to secure better employment opportunities and contribute to the nation's economic growth. “We need more skilled workers in various industries, and I encourage you, graduates to use your newly acquired skills to help our country's economy grow. You are now equipped to contribute to our society and make a positive impact in your respective communities,” Go encouraged. "Your hard work and commitment to honing your skills have not gone unnoticed. Today, you stand as a testament to the power of determination and the transformative impact of vocational education. I commend each and every one of you for your achievements," he added. Meanwhile, Go’s team provided assistance, such as grocery packs, snacks, and shirts to 83 graduates. Recognizing the crucial role that education plays in shaping the nation's future, Senator Go has consistently championed measures, such as Senate Bill Nos. 1359, 1360, and 1864, all aimed at enhancing the quality and accessibility of education for all Filipinos. SBN 1359, or the No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act, co-authored and co-sponsored by Go, was approved on the third and final reading last March. The proposed measure penalizes the imposition of a “no permit, no exam” policy or any similar policy that prohibits students from taking an examination or other similar educational assessments due to unpaid tuition or other school fees. Go has also co-authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1360 which seeks to expand the coverage of the tertiary education subsidy (TES) by amending Republic Act No. 10931, or the Universal Access To Quality Tertiary Education Act. Lastly, SBN 1864, or the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act, aims to provide relief to students who have taken out loans but are unable to pay them back due to disasters and other emergencies. Go also filed SBN 2115, which aims to institutionalize a technical-vocational education and training and livelihood program for rehabilitated drug dependents. The bill aims to provide skills training and enhance the employability of former drug dependents, allowing them to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. The post Bong Go lauds TESDA graduates in Carcar City, Cebu 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......»»
PCSO to suspended STL operator in Cebu, Southern Leyte: Stop unauthorized operations
Determined to stamp out illegal gambling and instill full compliance among its accredited Small Town Lottery operators, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office on Tuesday clamped down on the unauthorized operations of an erring STL operator in Cebu City and Southern Leyte. PCSO General Manager Mel Robles explained that all operations of Saturn Gaming N' Amusement Corporation in the said provinces are already deemed illegal, after the termination of its authority to operate last 8 March 2023. Robles pointed out the PCSO’s order is effective and must be fully enforced in the said areas except in Metro Cebu and Mandaue City. The PCSO made the announcement Tuesday on its official website, stating, among others, that the authority to operate of Saturn Gaming was revoked effective 8 March 2023 by virtue of PCSO Board Resolution No. 55 Series of 2023, even as the revocation order subsequently took effect on 6 April this year. The bulletin said: “Ipinababatid ng PCSO na ang Saturn Gaming N’ Amusement Corporation ay hindi Authorized Agent Corporation (AAC) ng Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office para sa Southern Leyte at Cebu simula ika-6 ng Abril 2023. Ang Authority to Operate (ATO) ng Saturn Gaming N’ Amusement Corporation ay binawi at tinanggal sa ilalim ng PCSO Board Resolution No. 55, Series of 2023 na inilabas noong ika-8 ng Marso 2023”. It added that any attempts by Saturn Gaming to defy the lawful order is in clear violation of Presidential Decree No. 1602 (Prescribing Stiffer Penalties On Illegal Gambling) and Republic Act No. 9287 (An Act Increasing the Penalties for Illegal Numbers Games, Amending Certain Provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1602, and For Other Purposes). Robles said they decided to terminate the authority to operate after they discovered that Saturn Gaming had committed and was continuing to commit numerous violations of the terms and conditions stipulated on the Authorized Agent Corporation Agreement. Robles said Saturn Gaming’s closure should serve as warning to other STL operators, reiterating that the PCSO will not hesitate to impose sanctions or revoke their authority to operate if they are found violating the Authorized Agent Corporation Agreement. “Magsilbing babala sana ito sa ating mga STL operator na sana ay sundin nila ang nakasaad sa kasunduan na kanilang pinirmahan. Dahil hindi kami magdadalawang-isip na ipasara sila kapag napatunayan namin na lumalabag sila sa mga probisyon ng nasabing agreement,” he said. The PCSO and the Philippine National Police earlier vowed to unite in waging war against illegal gambling operations in the country. PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. in a recent meeting with Robles, said he would strictly enforce the one-strike policy against police commanders who fail to stop illegal gambling activities in their respective areas of responsibility. The PCSO said it has already informed Acorda and P/Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin, PNP Regional Director in Cebu City, regarding the agency’s position that Saturn Gaming is now an illegal operation. Robles is adamant that illegal gambling operations in the country must be stopped, noting that they greatly affect the PCSO's ability to generate higher revenues as the greater portion of their earnings end up in the hands of illegal gambling operators. "In turn, those losses deprive poor Filipino citizens of the health care and other benefits the PCSO provides," he said. Saturn Gaming, for its part, said it was able to secure a Writ of Preliminary Injunction from Regional Trial Court-Mandaluyong Branch 213 against the PCSO order. Robles, however, clarified that no such writ has been issued by the court in favor of Saturn Gaming. The post PCSO to suspended STL operator in Cebu, Southern Leyte: Stop unauthorized operations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PCSO suspends STL operator in Cebu, Southern Leyte
DETERMINED to stamp out illegal gambling and instill full compliance among its accredited Small Town Lottery operators, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office on Tuesday clamped down on the unauthorized operations of an erring STL operator in Cebu City and Southern Leyte. PCSO General Manager Mel Robles explained that all operations of Saturn Gaming N' Amusement Corporation in the said provinces are already deemed illegal, after the termination of its authority to operate on 19 January 2023. GM Robles pointed out the PCSO’s order is effective and must be fully enforced in the said areas except in Metro Cebu and Mandaue City. The PCSO made the announcement Tuesday on its official website stating among others that the authority to operate of Saturn Gaming was revoked effective 19 2023 by virtue of PCSO Board Resolution No. 55 Series of 2023, even as the revocation order subsequently took effect on April 6 this year. The bulletin said: “Ipinababatid ng PCSO na ang Saturn Gaming N’ Amusement Corporation ay hindi Authorized Agent Corporation (AAC) ng Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office para sa Southern Leyte at Cebu simula ika-6 ng Abril 2023. Ang Authority to Operate (ATO) ng Saturn Gaming N’ Amusement Corporation ay binawi at tinanggal sa ilalim ng PCSO Board Resolution No. 55, Series of 2023 na inilabas noong ikaw-8 ng Marso 2023”. It added that any attempts by Saturn Gaming to defy the lawful order is in clear violation of Presidential Decree No. 1602 (Prescribing Stiffer Penalties On Illegal Gambling) and Republic Act No. 9287 (An Act Increasing the Penalties for Illegal Numbers Games, Amending Certain Provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1602, and For Other Purposes). GM Robles said they decided to terminate the authority to operate after they discovered that Saturn Gaming has committed and is continuing to commit numerous violations of the terms and conditions stipulated on the Authorized Agent Corporation (AAC) Agreement. This developed as GM Robles said that Saturn Gaming’s closure should serve as warning to other STL operators who might want to follow its footsteps, stating that they will not hesitate to impose sanctions or revoke their authority to operate if they are found violating the Authorized Agent Corporation (AAC) Agreement. “Magsilbing babala sana ito sa ating mga STL operator na sana ay sundin nila ang nakasaad sa kasunduan na kanilang pinirmahan. Dahil hindi kami magdadalawang-isip na ipasara sila kapag napatunayan namin na lumalabag sila sa mga probisyon ng nasabing agreement,” he said. To recall, the PCSO and the Philippine National Police earlier vowed to unite as they wage war against illegal gambling operations in the country. PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. in a recent meeting with GM Robles, assured that he would strictly enforce the one-strike policy against police commanders who would fail to stop illegal gambling activities in their respective areas of responsibility. Relative to the latest development, the PCSO said it already informed Gen. Acorda Jr. and P/Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin, PNP Regional Director in Cebu City, regarding the agency’s position that Saturn Gaming operations remain unsanctioned and therefore, illegal. GM Robles is adamant that illegal gambling operations in the country must be stopped, noting that they greatly affect their agency's ability to generate higher revenues as the greater portion of their earnings end up in the hands of illegal gambling operators. "In turn, those losses deprive poor Filipino citizens of the health care and other benefits the PCSO provides," Robles was previously quoted as saying. Saturn Gaming for its part is claiming that it was able to secure a Writ of Preliminary Injunction from Regional Trial Court-Mandaluyong Branch 213 against the PCSO order. GM Robles, however, clarified that the court has not issued any writ of preliminary injunction in favor of Saturn Gaming. The post PCSO suspends STL operator in Cebu, Southern Leyte appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Amending Constitution not a priority – Sen. Imee Marcos
TACLOBAN CITY — While she considers the 1987 Constitution as “anti-Marcos,” Senator Imee Marcos opposed plans to amend it. Speaking to reporters here earlier this month, Marcos said moves to tinker with the Constitution will not get any majority support from the Senate, saying this early, it’s “dead on arrival.” “It sounds strange coming from a Marcos […] The post Amending Constitution not a priority – Sen. Imee Marcos appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Mandaue to wait for Malacañang EO before amending face mask ordinance
MANDAUE CITY, Philippines — Mandaue City will wait for the Executive Order from Malacañang before amending its face mask ordinance. Vice Mayor Glenn Bercede on Thursday, September 8, said he was happy that the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) has recommended the lifting of the mandatory wearing of face […] The post Mandaue to wait for Malacañang EO before amending face mask ordinance appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Amendment to ‘free coffin’ ordinance gets nod of Cebu City council committee
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The amending ordinance seeking to allow the city government to provide free coffin costing not more than P10,000 to deceased indigent and paupers of the city got the nod of the Cebu City Council’s Committee on Laws, Ordinances, and Styling. In a committee report submitted to the Council on Wednesday, August […] The post Amendment to ‘free coffin’ ordinance gets nod of Cebu City council committee appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cebu City dad wants provision of Expanded Senior Citizens Act amended
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu City Council is set to request the two members of the House of Representatives of the city — Rep. Eduardo “Edu” Rama, Jr. and Rep. Rachel “Cutie” del Mar — to study the possibility of amending a provision of Republic Act No. 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act […] The post Cebu City dad wants provision of Expanded Senior Citizens Act amended appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
All Mandaue public market entrances to be opened; market schedule to be lifted
MANDAUE CITY, Philippines — All entrances of the Mandaue City Public Market will be opened and the market schedule will be lifted starting this Monday, June 14, 2021. Mayor Jonas Cortes said he would be signing an Executive Order amending EO No. 01 series of 2021, opening all the entrances and lifting the market schedule. […] The post All Mandaue public market entrances to be opened; market schedule to be lifted appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cortes signs EO amending schedule of Mandaue City Public Market
MANDAUE CITY, Philippines – Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes has issued Executive Order no. 01 series of 2021 on Friday, January 15, 2021, amending portions of Section 1 of EO no. 71 series of 2020 on the removal of barricades and Section 3 of EO no. 83 series of 2020 amending the schedule of operations […] The post Cortes signs EO amending schedule of Mandaue City Public Market appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cebu City Residents Can Go Out on Sundays Starting Aug. 9
Residents here will be allowed to leave their homes on Sundays starting August 9, Mayor Edgardo Labella said Friday. Labella released on Thursday an executive order amending the schedule of quarantine pass use to include Sundays, apart from the three days of the week residents are allowed to leave their homes for essential goods and […].....»»
Cebu City sets up ‘stricter measures’ for ECQ
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu City government has rolled out additional stricter rules as the city undergoes an enhanced community quarantine (ECQ). Mayor Edgardo Labella on Saturday, June 27, signed and issued Executive Order (EO) No. 82-A effectively amending the city’s previous EO that set down the guidelines in implementing the ECQ. The new […] The post Cebu City sets up ‘stricter measures’ for ECQ appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
‘Extra’ quarantine period for OFWs shortened to 5 days
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Instead of seven days, repatriated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) would now only have to be quarantined for five days upon arrival in Cebu before they would be allowed to return to their hometowns in the province. This is after Governor Gwendolyn Garcia issued Executive Order No. 17- C, amending the movement […] The post ‘Extra’ quarantine period for OFWs shortened to 5 days appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»