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Bread on Bike
Vendors roam the remote areas of the mountain municipality of Talakag in Bukidnon to sell bread aboard a motorcycle on Thursday (11 January 2024). MindaNews photo by BOBBY TIMONERA.....»»
Bong Go provides support to help displaced workers in Bukidnon
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go sent assistance to displaced workers in Cabanglasan, Bukidnon on Friday, 29 September, in coordination with the office of Congressman Jonathan Keith Flores. Held at the municipal gymnasium, Go’s team distributed masks, vitamins, shirts, and snacks to a total of 426 displaced workers. They also gave away shoes, watches, mobile phones, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. "Patuloy po tayong magtulungan upang mas mapabuti pa ang kalagayan ng ating mga disadvantaged at displaced workers. Magkasama tayo sa layuning ito na makabuo ng mas maginhawa at mas matatag na lipunan para sa lahat ng Pilipino," he said. These beneficiaries also qualified for livelihood support from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Meanwhile, Go underscored the significance of safeguarding the welfare of disadvantaged workers with particular attention to those dwelling in rural areas who are in need of more economic opportunities. Given this, Go has filed Senate Bill No. 420 which seeks to create a mechanism for offering short-term employment to eligible members of underprivileged households in rural regions. Within the framework of this proposed legislation, a program known as the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP) would be established under DOLE. REAP's primary goal is to furnish temporary job opportunities to individuals who qualify as economically disadvantaged, impoverished, displaced, or seasonal workers. Underscoring the need for accessible yet affordable healthcare, Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, also championed the services offered in the Malasakit Center located at Bukidnon Provincial Hospital in Maramag. Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, principally authored and sponsored by Go, mandates all Department of Health (DOH)-run hospitals, and the Philippine General Hospital in Manila City, to establish their own centers to provide convenient access to medical assistance programs offered by the government. “Ang target po ng Malasakit Center ay ma-cover ang inyong billing. Kaya huwag po kayong mahihiyang lumapit sa Malasakit Center dahil para po yan sa inyo, mga kababayan kong Pilipino. At ngayon po, meron na po tayong 159 na Malasakit Centers sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong po sa inyo,” explained Go. Go also mentioned that a Super Health Center is set to be established in the city of Malaybalay, and the towns of Kadingilan, Pangantucan, Sumilao, Kitaotao, Manolo Fortich, Maramag, Quezon, Talakag, San Fernando, and Kalilangan. The Super Health Centers will offer a range of healthcare services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, 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. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, including Senate President Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, a native of Bukidnon, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The DOH, as the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. Lastly, Go cited the enactment of Republic Act 11959, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act which he principally sponsored and is one of the authors in the Senate. The law mandates the establishment of regional specialty centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. It stands as a testament to the commitment of the government to uplift the nation's health infrastructure and bring actual medical services closer to the Filipino people. To help contribute to the city’s progress and improved connectivity, Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the construction of a public market in Barangay Maluko and a multipurpose building in Sankanan. The post Bong Go provides support to help displaced workers in Bukidnon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Perjury raps vs 2 activists underway
Perjury charges are now being prepared against the two environmentalists who recanted their “handwritten affidavit” stating they have “voluntarily surrendered” to the military and declared that soldiers abducted them after they went missing. During the deliberation of the Senate Committee on Finance on 2024 proposed P229.9-billion budget of the Department of National Defense and its attached agencies, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa asked on the case update of Jhed Tamano and Jonila Castro who earlier retracted what they said in their affidavit. “May case preparation ngayon, inter-agency case preparation for the filing of perjury charges sa kanila. Nire-review lang ang mga sworn statements ng mga testigo (There is a case preparation now, multi-agency case preparation for the filing of perjury charges against them. The sworn statements of the witnesses are being reviewed),” Teodoro told Dela Rosa. In a previous press conference organized by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, Tamano and Castor denied that they surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 70th Infantry Battalion. Philippine Army chief LtGen. Roy Galido earlier admitted that the two young activists had tricked the military, contrary to their earlier statements sworn before the Public Attorney's Office. "We felt betrayed that's why we will file the necessary case, to use our laws, just like when you are also betrayed when your clients are betrayed, they file a case against you, so we just have to follow the rule of law in our country," Galido said. Meanwhile, Dela Rosa urged the DND to push through with the filing of perjury charges against Tamano and Castro. "We should do that. I am encouraging you. Grabe 'yung maka-kaliwa, grabe maka-jump sa bandwagon nung epekto na 'yun. Talagang all-out sila. Dapat tayo rin, sumagot din tayo. Parang lumalabas na para bang inaamin na lang natin na totoo ang sinasabi nila (The leftists are really jumping on the bandwagon following their retraction. They are really all-out. We must answer that. It seems like we are just admitting that what they are saying is true),” said Dela Rosa. The senator said the security forces should be aggressive in their actions against propaganda of the communist-leaning parties. Teodoro noted that the intelligence information on the two activists is liable. “Your honor, talagang sigurado po ako sa ebidensya dito (I’m really sure about the evidences),” said Teodoro, noting that the recantation of the two activists is just part of the dramas being perpetrated by the left-leaning organizations. ‘Lesson learned: Be wary’ Dela Rosa also warned the Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. to be wary of entertaining communist surrenderers. “Lessons learned, General Brawner. Ingat kayo kasi pwede kayong saksakin sa likuran niyan (Just be careful because they can stab your back),” he said. "Masyado tayong mabait, masyado na tayong gentleman. Masyado tayong mapagbigay to the point na 'yun pala, nilalason na pala tayo sa sarili nating tubig (We are too kind, we are too gentlemanly. We are too generous to the point that we are being poisoned in our own waters),” Dela Rosa added. On the other hand, Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri emphasized the need to provide sufficient funds for the NTF-ELCAC, to augment the military’s efforts on its Balik-Loob program. “We should help in their budget, we should continue providing funds for NTF-ELCAC, especially in barangay projects because that’s what winning hearts and minds. It has been very successful in Bukidnon and any other provinces,” he said. Dela Rosa supported Zubiri’s suggestion. However, the funds of the anti-insurgency task force are being lodged in the expenditure program of the National Security Council. The post Perjury raps vs 2 activists underway appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go brings health services closer to Bukidnon residents
Sen. Bong Go launched another Super Health Center in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on Saturday to bring health services closer to Filipinos, especially in disadvantaged areas......»»
Better sports facilities pushed
As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am saddened by the dilapidated state of the country’s iconic sports facilities. The Philippine Institute of Sports Multi-Purpose Arena, popularly known as PhilSports Arena, has come a long way from the time it was built in 1985 to house the Philippine Basketball Association until the league moved out in 1993 due to the lack of maintenance of the venue. The last time it was renovated was in 2019, when the country hosted the 30th Southeast Asian Games. Among PhilSports Arena’s main facilities are the Multi-purpose Arena, Swimming Center, and Football and Athletic Stadium. While the arena was greatly enjoyed as a sports facility, it also served as a temporary shelter for evacuees after Tropical Storm Ondoy and Typhoon Pepeng struck the Philippines in 2009, adding to the facility's wear and tear. A quick look at the PhilSports Arena and the other sports facilities nationwide should make us realize that we should invest more in rehabilitating our iconic sports facilities. As I have suggested during the budget deliberations in the Senate, prioritizing funding for sports facilities would have been better than putting flood control projects in areas with little to no population. This concern about the support we are providing our athletes has motivated me to author and co-sponsor Republic Act No. 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. In collaboration with the Philippine Sports Commission and the Department of Education, NAS now offers a specialized secondary education program focused on sports where students can study and train simultaneously. I have also filed the Philippine National Games bill, which aims to provide a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development by having a mini Olympics regularly. Providing opportunities to our youth will help develop their potential in sports but will also help keep them away from vices such as illegal drugs. I continue to support establishing sports-related programs and infrastructure to divert the youth from the lure of addiction and criminality. This is also part of my three-pronged approach to combat illegal drugs in the Philippines – law enforcement, rehabilitation, and prevention. Yesterday, I witnessed the Philippine ROTC Games 2023 Luzon Qualifying Leg opening ceremony held at Cavite State University – Indang Campus in Indang, Cavite. With Sen. Francis Tolentino, I encouraged our young cadets who participated in various competitions to get into sports and stay away from drugs. I have also remained faithful to my promise to visit and help our fellow Filipinos in most parts of the country. On 16 September, we attended the groundbreaking of a Super Health Center in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. We also visited the town of Damulog, where I inspected projects I have supported, such as a public market, road concreting project, evacuation center, solar street lights, and a multipurpose building. Later that day, we also attended the 25th Anniversary of Public Safety Basic Recruit Course Class 1998-Alpha at Acacia Hotel in Davao City. On 15 September, we attended a meeting of state universities and colleges leaders held in Davao City and hosted by Commission on Higher Education Chair Prospero de Vera. The night before, we also joined leaders from the CHEd, the University of the Philippines System, and various SUCs to honor the appointment of Atty. Angelo Jimenez, a fellow Mindanaoan, as the 22nd President of the University of the Philippines. We took the opportunity to voice our commitment to elevating the standard of education nationwide. This is also the reason why Republic Act No. 10931, or the Universal Access To Quality Tertiary Education Act, was enacted into law during the time of former president Rodrigo Duterte. Today, we continue to pursue this further as I co-authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1360, which aims to widen the reach of the law further. We visited Bislig City in Surigao del Sur to participate in its 23rd Charter Day festivities. We handed out grocery packages to 32 newlywed couples during a community wedding and inaugurated the country’s 159th Malasakit Center at the Bislig District Hospital. This is the seventh Malasakit Center in the Caraga region and the 40th in Mindanao. Our team also provided direct aid, including grocery packs, to 129 patients and 191 front liners, including security guards, utilities, and hospital staff. On 15 September, my office also attended the groundbreaking of Super Health Centers in New Washington and Malay in the province of Aklan. Meanwhile, we continue to support livelihood programs, especially those that can help people experiencing poverty overcome crises. Through our support, the Department of Trade and Industry provides livelihood kits to qualified beneficiaries affected by calamities and teaches them how to grow their businesses for the benefit of their families. Among those we have helped are 20 from Dipaculao, Aurora; 57 from Sanchez Mira and Abulog, Cagayan; 100 affected by the earthquake in Montevista and New Bataan, and 50 in Nabunturan in Davao de Oro; 196 in Malalag and Sulop, Davao del Sur; 20 in Mangatarem, Pangasinan; 21 victims of Typhoon Egay in Pigcawayan, North Cotabato; 132 shear line victims in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental; and 36 beneficiaries from Lutayan and Columbio, Sultan Kudarat, and General Santos City. We also continue to support the National Housing Authority’s distribution of emergency housing assistance to disaster victims so they can purchase roofing, nails, and other home repair materials. We assisted beneficiaries, including 85 fire victims in Imus City, Cavite. Meanwhile, my office helped the 65 fire victims in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. We also provided assistance to 75 TESDA graduates in Victorias City, Negros Occidental. We also distributed additional support to workers who lost their jobs, beneficiaries of the TUPAD program of the Department of Labor and Employment, including 413 in Talibon, Bohol, and 150 in Plaridel, Bulacan. We also aided 333 poor residents in Paluan, Occidental Mindoro; and 234 in Antipolo City, Rizal. Together, let us continue bringing government services closer to Filipinos in need – from better sports facilities more accessible healthcare services, and implementing various programs to help uplift communities affected by crises. The post Better sports facilities pushed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hundreds join BFAR cleanup drive
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources reported over the weekend that around 500 individuals joined the cleanup drive in Barangay Tanza Uno, Navotas City to mark this year’s observance of International Coastal Cleanup. BFAR National Director Demosthenes Escoto said that this year’s theme: “Clean Seas for Healthy Fisheries,” reflects the agency’s appeal for the public to cooperate in maintaining waste-free bodies of water to ensure a thriving fisheries industry, “All bodies of water are connected, so I hope we can work together for a clean and abundant ocean. I am optimistic that by working together, we can ensure that our oceans and coastal regions continue to be a source of life, inspiration, and prosperity for all,” Escoto said. He led BFAR’s central and National Capital Region offices and stakeholders from New Era High School, Asian Social Institute and Lingkod Tao-Kalikasan in the activity, held at the Marine Tree Park in Navotas. The cleanup, held concurrently with other activities worldwide as part of the celebration, was supported by the local government of Navotas City, the Department of the Interior and Local Government - NCR, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority-Navotas. Escoto noted that the protection of natural resources is a “matter of utmost urgency and global significance,” underscoring the importance of oceans, seas, rivers, and coastal areas for the livelihoods of Filipino fisher folk. “The livelihood of millions of our countrymen depends on our ocean. So it’s fair to say that when the ocean is clean, fishing is plentiful, and livelihoods are stable,” he said. Escoto also highlighted their commitment to ocean conservation and protection, with partner institutions expressing their support for the agency’s programs, particularly those related to coastal resource management. These include the implementation of the “Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan: The National Search for Outstanding Coastal Communities,” which incentivizes local government units demonstrating exemplary sustainable fisheries development efforts. The BFAR has also launched the “Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa” or BASIL program, wherein they rehabilitate minor lakes and reservoirs located in upland and landlocked areas to restore their ecological health and bolster the populations of native and endemic fish species. The post Hundreds join BFAR cleanup drive appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BFAR joins coastal cleanup in Navotas
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources reported that around 500 individuals joined the cleanup drive in Barangay Tanza Uno, Navotas City to mark this year's observance of International Coastal Cleanup. BFAR National Director Demosthenes Escoto said that this year’s theme: “Clean Seas for Healthy Fisheries,” reflects the agency’s appeal for the public to cooperate in maintaining waste-free bodies of water to ensure a thriving fisheries industry, "All bodies of water are connected, so I hope we can work together for a clean and abundant ocean. I am optimistic that by working together, we can ensure that our oceans and coastal regions continue to be a source of life, inspiration, and prosperity for all," Escoto said. He led BFAR’s central and National Capital Region offices and stakeholders from New Era High School, Asian Social Institute, and Lingkod Tao-Kalikasan in the activity, held at the Marine Tree Park in Navotas. The cleanup, held concurrently with other activities worldwide as part of the celebration, was supported by the local government of Navotas City, the Department of the Interior and Local Government - NCR, and the Metro Manila Development Authority - Navotas. Escoto noted that the protection of natural resources is a “matter of utmost urgency and global significance,” underscoring the importance of oceans, seas, rivers, and coastal areas for the livelihoods of Filipino fisher folk. “The livelihood of millions of our countrymen depends on our ocean. So it's fair to say that when the ocean is clean, fishing is plentiful, and livelihoods are stable," he said. Escoto also highlighted their commitment to ocean conservation and protection, with partner institutions expressing their support for the agency's programs, particularly those related to coastal resource management. These include the implementation of the “Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan: The National Search for Outstanding Coastal Communities,” which incentivizes local government units to demonstrate exemplary sustainable fisheries development efforts. The BFAR has also launched the “Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa” or BASIL program, wherein they rehabilitate minor lakes and reservoirs located in upland and landlocked areas to restore their ecological health and bolster the populations of native and endemic fish species. The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Plant Industry on the other hand, together with various public and private organizations, also participated in the International Coastal Cleanup Day 2023 at the SM by the Bay Mall of Asia in Pasay City. In a social media post on Saturday, the DA-BPI said that equipped with gloves, sacks, and tongs, their volunteers eagerly picked up debris littering the coastal area, such as pet bottles, discarded clothing, torn cardboard boxes, plastics, and other waste items washed ashore. The annual event focuses not only on collecting trash washed ashore but also on raising awareness of the negative impacts of water pollution on marine life. The ICC is a global initiative to maintain and safeguard coastal ecosystems. The yearly event unifies individuals, communities, and organizations from different countries to work together to clean up and restore the coastal environments. The post BFAR joins coastal cleanup in Navotas appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PSA launches 2022 Census on Agriculture and Fisheries
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) launched the 2022 Census on Agriculture and Fisheries (CAF) in provinces and barangays on Monday, 4 September. Target respondents for the 2022 CAF are operators of crops, livestock, poultry, insects/worm culturing, aquaculture, and/or fishing activity from 1 January to 31 December 2022, while at the barangay level will be the barangay chairpersons or any incumbent barangay official. Data collected from the census, which will run until 25 October this year, will serve as relevant bases for public leaders to create policies, plans, and programs to enhance the Philippines’ socio-economic status. The 2022 CAF will also provide an inventory of agricultural and fishery resources, basic information on crops and livestock, statistics on land distribution and operations, benchmarks for measuring progress, data for local area planning, a sampling frame for surveys, information for monitoring progress toward Sustainable Development Goals, and data needed by the United Nations Organizations for international comparability and observing the global food situation. “This milestone event signified the beginning of a comprehensive household and barangay data collection process. It underscores the PSA’s commitment to empowering our agricultural and fisheries sectors with accurate information, actionable insights, and a collective vision for the future,” said PSA Undersecretary and National Statistician Claire Dennis S. Mapa during the 2022 CAF press conference. The provinces of Pangasinan, Bukidnon, and Iloilo will have full coverage under the 2022 CAF due to the areas’ production volume and value in the country’s agriculture industry. Meanwhile, PSA enumerators will also make their rounds in cities, where urban farms and community gardens flourish. In line with the government agency’s bid for efficiency and accuracy, the PSA partnered with actress Bea Alonzo, who is also the proprietor of Beati Firma in Iba, Zambales, to encourage the farmers and fisherfolks to participate in the census. “We want to achieve ‘yung mileage, information, education campaign dito sa ating census. As you know, when we go to each of the houses during census time, not all respondents are so welcoming. With Bea here, she will help us,” PSA Deputy National Statistician Minerva Eloisa Esquivias said. “Alam ko po mga challenges ng farming: Masamang panahon, bagyo po talaga, minsan bigla na lang may babagsak na mga puno, minsan po mataas ang presyo ng binhi. So, ’yun po ang challenges sa pagiging farmer,” Alonzo said. Other modern steps that the PSA took to ensure the success of the 2022 CAF is equipping its enumerators with tablets to expedite the data collection and compiling process. It’ll also be the first time the government agency will use artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms developed by the Department of Science and Technology’s Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) to detect, map, and estimate the area for selected crops and aquafarms. Throughout the data collection period, the PSA also advises respondents to be vigilant in recognizing their legitimate numerators before giving out any relevant information about themselves, their families, and their properties. The PSA aims to release data gathered from 2022 CAF in the first quarter of 2024. The 2022 CAF is the seventh in PSA’s decennial agricultural and fisheries census series and is conducted every 10 years. The post PSA launches 2022 Census on Agriculture and Fisheries appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
QC all set for start of school year
The Quezon City government is gearing up all of its efforts and resources to aid students and teachers for the school year 2023-2024 to ensure a smooth and orderly opening on 29 August. “Education is a community responsibility. We want to make sure that our children are given the right tools, environment, and guidance to help them learn and develop their potential,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said. According to the Schools Division Office of Quezon City (SDO QC), it is expecting over 458,000 students for the coming school year. Being one of the cities with the highest student population, the city strives to address the challenges that remain present in the education sector, primarily school congestion and quality of learning. In coordination with the Schools Division Office, the city aims to implement various strategies to address classroom shortages. Proposed interventions include the construction of mid-rise school buildings and the institutionalization of blended learning. “Congestion is still an issue since QC is the biggest division in the country in terms of student population and there are no more buildable spaces. We have started building vertically in some areas. We are also institutionalizing the blended learning modality. Congested grades will shift to blended modality where there will be three days of face-to-face classes and two days of asynchronous or synchronous classes,” Belmonte said. “Together with the Schools Division Office and the Education Affairs Unit, we are also considering a school service or bus system to transfer excess students to QC schools that have not reached their full absorptive capacity,” she added. Moreover, the city is in the process of introducing the QC Voucher system for elementary learners similar to what is being done now at the senior high school level, where students will be given a voucher to enroll in accredited QC private schools. The LGU is also open to leasing unused buildings in private schools that can serve as extension facilities to congested public schools. Several schools are also undergoing renovation in an effort to provide a better and more conducive learning environment for the students. As part of ensuring that all QCitizen learners are ready to go back to classes, the city has started the distribution of learning kits to all K to 12 learners. QC Education Affairs Unit (EAU) Officer-in-Charge Maricris Veloso said that the distribution of school supplies for enrolled students has commenced, while public school teachers can expect an additional 1,000 laptops within the year. Since 2020, the city has distributed over 6,000 laptops to its public school teachers. Teaching and non-teaching personnel can likewise expect the continuous provision of monthly and quarterly allowances. The city government will provide additional sets of tables and chairs for teachers, 15,000 tablet armchairs for elementary schools, 10,000 tablet armchairs for secondary schools, and 5,100 sets of kiddie tables and chairs for kindergarten learners. Furthermore, QC will also procure 141,880 storybooks, 80,000 workbooks, SMART TVs, computers, and CCTVs, underscoring safety in schools. Efforts to improve the internet connectivity in schools as well as free internet access for hybrid learners, and provision of assistive technology for inclusive learning are also underway. As part of the city’s learning recovery initiatives, it is also implementing its tutoring program dubbed "Zero Illiteracy sa QC," to help improve students’ fundamental skills in reading and numeracy. “Our objective for the upcoming opening of classes is to ensure that learners will have their educational needs met and to lessen the parents’ worry,” the mayor said. SDO QC also noted that an Education Summit in consultation with education stakeholders; parents, barangay, school heads, learners, and teachers was conducted prior to the opening of classes. Oplan Balik Eskwela hotlines and help desks are also operational, and traffic management has been planned in coordination with the barangays and concerned city departments. “Let us help our students achieve learning excellence by actively engaging in our children’s education and being one with the city government,” Schools Division Superintendent Carleen Sedilla said. With all these preparations in motion, the city ensures the successful opening of classes for School Year 2023-2024. The post QC all set for start of school year appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go asks for accomplishment report of DPWH’s flood control projects
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go stressed on August 9, Wednesday, the need for accountability, strategic prioritization, and long-term solutions to address recurring problems in flood-prone areas during a Committee on Public Works hearing on the country's flood control master plan and outstanding projects. “Yun lang po sir ang tatlong hiningi ko: (1) accomplishment report, (2) copy of master plan at (3) prioritization dito sa mga flood control projects ninyo po na dapat po’y makinabang yung mga lugar na dapat makinabang – yung mga flood prone areas,” he asked during the hearing. Go asked DPWH for an accomplishment report detailing the flood control initiatives undertaken during former president Rodrigo Duterte's term. He also requested a copy of the master plan outlining both current and upcoming projects. The senator said the budget allocated for flood control continues to increase from P82 billion in 2019, 80.7 billion in 2020, 90.9 billion in 2021, 127.4 billion in 2022, 182 billion in 2023, and now with a proposed budget of P215.6 billion for 2024, not including foreign assisted projects and those funded by the private sector. “Ibig sabihin, tumataas po ‘yung budget ninyo for flood control. Pero ‘di pa rin po nabibigyan ng solusyon ang problema sa pagbaha,” he stated, indicating a broader concern about the strategy and effectiveness of flood control projects in the country. The senator also expressed confusion and concern over the prioritization of some flood control projects, questioning why some areas with little or no population receive flood control measures while highly populated areas still suffer from recurring floods. “Despite having flood control projects initiated or requested by legislators and local officials, ang expertise ay nasa DPWH. Kayo dapat ang magsabi kung ano ang tama at mali, kung saan ba dapat ilagay ang flood control, slope protection at iba pang proyekto, at kayo ang dapat nakakaalam paano masolusyunan ang paulit-ulit na pagbaha sa bansa,” Go stressed. In response, DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan said there is a need to protect the environment and production areas but agreed that populated areas should be prioritized. Go said “yung nakikita ko minsan, maraming mga flood control, eh, may bundok namang nagpo-protection sa kanila.” “Eh, dito sa mga patag na lugar — halimbawa itong Bulacan — halos walang bundok ito. Walang nagpo-protect sa kanila sa mga umaagos na malalakas na tubig mula sa taas ng bundok. Eh, ‘yun pa ang kulang-kulang sa flood control. Maybe just check your prioritization plans,” added Go. The senator's call for action originated not only from a practical perspective but also from a compassionate stance. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by the citizens affected by flooding and said "ang hirap mabahaan, parang back to zero na naman po sila," underscoring the challenges of recovery. “Para po silang nasunugan, kaya lang pinagkaiba, makalabas pa rin sila, pero mahirap, sira yung gamit, basa dito, sasakyan, basa yung mga telebisyon nila, parang nag-umpisa po muli sila,” added Go. Go recalled how, during the time of former president Duterte, the administration had insisted on an equitable distribution of the budget for all regions, whether for flood control or any infrastructure. “Talagang gusto niya, hinayaan niya po ang departamentong mag-determine kung saan ‘yung priority niya talaga at nangangailangan,” said Go. “Pakiusap ko lang po sa inyo, full support naman po ako sa inyong opisina, ever since noon pa. Ayusin lang po ‘yung prioritization at ‘wag pong mapabayaan itong mga lugar na flood prone po talaga,” he added. Meanwhile, Go also highlighted the need to address compensation for right-of-way claims, especially for those who are less wealthy and struggle to have their claims recognized. “In relation to DPWH projects… gusto ko lang po malaman, itong prioritization ng pagbabayad ng right-of-way… kase ‘yung mayayaman, balewala sa kanila ‘yun. May mga may hawak ng titulo, halos namamatay na lang na hindi na-claim. Mga isang kahig, isang tuka, nasa bundok, natatamaan ‘yung kalye nila, ‘yung hindi binabayaran,” said Go. “Ano po ba ang prioritization rito sa right-of-way? Lalo na ‘yung mga maliliit. ‘Yun ang napansin ko. Pabalik-balik na, years hindi pa nababayaran,” he added. Bonoan acknowledged the importance of prioritizing all acquired properties and explained the challenges in budgeting for right-of-way compensations. He revealed that the allocated budget for these compensations has been very minimal over the past three years, with only a fraction of the requested amount being granted. Go’s demands for transparency and prioritization in flood control projects were made considering recent flooding incidents across Luzon due to heavy rains brought by tropical cyclones Egay and Falcon as well as the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat. His teams have been going around these areas to provide relief to affected communities particularly in Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Pangasinan, La Union, Zambales, Pampanga, and Bulacan. “Ang suliraning ito ay nagpapakita lamang ng kahalagahan ng masusing pag-aaral at aksyon upang maisaayos ang flood control strategies sa ating bansa. Sa likod ng mga hamong ito, patuloy tayo sa paghahanap ng mga karampatang solusyon para sa matagal nang problemang ito,” he said. #### The post Bong Go asks for accomplishment report of DPWH’s flood control projects appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Converge adjusts low-income focus
Amid a nationwide digitalization drive, fiber broadband provider, Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is ramping up the deployment of its prepaid product to serve more low-income households. “We see Surf2Sawa or S2S prepaid fiber Internet being the home broadband product of choice in dense communities. This is a sign that these urban settlements are leveraging our pure fiber connectivity to augment their livelihood and answer their entertainment, social, and even financial needs,” Converge CEO and co-founder Dennis Anthony Uy said in an interview. Converge launched on Friday its S2S prepaid fiber Internet product in Tondo, one of its top-served urban settlements. The community event was held at the Sandiwaan Center, just across Smokey Mountain. According to Uy, Converge strengthened its hold in key urban areas through a business model that recruited sales agents within the community as retailers; thus, providing much-needed livelihood opportunities in these neighborhoods. S2S was initially launched in November with a presence in over 400 cities and municipalities across the country. Users rising Subscribers as of the end of March nearly doubled quarter-on-quarter and is well on track to hit its goal of 120,000 subscribers by year’s end. As of the end of July, S2S has been serving customers in 554 cities and municipalities from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. “For 2023, we hope to open in new areas in Luzon such as Kalinga and Occidental Mindoro, Visayas, including Negros Oriental and Leyte, and Mindanao provinces like Sarangani, South Cotabato and Bukidnon,” Converge senior executive vice president and chief operations officer Jesus Romero said. The post Converge adjusts low-income focus appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Converge pierces through remote areas via prepaid deals
Amid nationwide digitalization, fiber broadband provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is ramping up the deployment of its fiber prepaid product to serve more low-income households nationwide. “We see Surf2Sawa or S2S prepaid fiber internet being the home broadband product of choice in dense communities. This is a sign that these urban settlements are leveraging our pure fiber connectivity to augment their livelihood and answer their entertainment, social, and even financial needs,” Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy said in an interview. Converge launched on Friday its S2S prepaid fiber internet product in Tondo, one of its top-served urban settlements. The community event was held at the Sandiwaan Center, just across Smokey Mountain. According to Uy, Converge strengthened its hold in key urban areas through a business model that recruited sales agents within the community as retailers; thus, providing much-needed livelihood opportunities in these neighborhoods. S2S was initially launched in November with a presence in over 400 cities and municipalities across the country. S2S subscribers as of the end of March nearly doubled quarter on quarter and is very well on track to hit its goal of reaching 120,000 subscribers by year-end. As of the end of July, S2S has been serving customers in 554 cities and municipalities from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. “For 2023, we hope to open in new areas in Luzon such as Kalinga and Occidental Mindoro, Visayas, including Negros Oriental and Leyte, and Mindanao provinces like Sarangani, South Cotabato, and Bukidnon,” Converge Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer Jesus C. Romero said. The post Converge pierces through remote areas via prepaid deals appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mt. Inayawan in Lanao del Norte now a protected area
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Friday said the biodiversity-rich Mount Inayawan Range Natural Park (MIRNP) in Nunugan, Lanao del Norte is now a protected area of high conservation importance. In a statement, DENR said MIRNP was officially launched as an ASEAN Heritage Park (AHP) in ceremonies held during the 64th Araw ng Lanao del Norte-Environment Day celebration last 28 June. DENR OIC Assistant Secretary for Field Operations - Western Mindanao Arleigh Adorable and DENR Region 10 Regional Executive Director Henry Adornado joined Lanao del Norte Governor Imelda “Angging” Quibranza-Dimaporo, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, and other stakeholders in launching MIRNP as the 53rd AHP across the Southeast Asian region. The event saw the unveiling of the official landmark marking MIRNP as the eleventh AHP in the Philippines and the fourth in Region 10. Other AHPs in the country are Mt. Apo Natural Park in Cotabato, Mt. Iglit-Baco Natural Park in Mindoro, Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park in Bukidnon, Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park in Misamis Occidental, Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve in Laguna, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Palawan, Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary in Davao Oriental, Mt. Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok Natural Monument in Camiguin Island, Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary in Agusan del Sur, and Pasonanca Natural Park in Zamboanga City. The ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB), as the secretariat of the AHP Programme, shall provide the park’s protected area staff with capacity-building activities as well as logistical support for activities under the park’s management plan. Adorable said the MIRNP is of biological importance to the residents of Nunungan as it functions as an industrial and domestic water source and irrigation for Kapatagan Valley, the rice granary of Lanao del Norte. “Based on the recent Biodiversity Assessment and Monitoring conducted by DENR Region 10 and representatives of the local government unit of Nunungan, Lanao del Norte, MIRNP is an important refuge of a great number of diverse endemic fauna and flora species found in the old growth and mossy forest in the higher areas,” Adorable said. MIRNP is the largest remaining virgin forest in Lanao del Norte and is a critical watershed in the province. It covers three major lakes: Malaig, Pantar, and Sungod. It sustains the residents in the Municipality of Nunungan and those in the adjacent municipalities of Sapad, Kapatagan, and Lala. For the locals, the mountain is the center of their belief, their protector, and the provider of their needs for many centuries. The park’s flora is dominated by dipterocarp species while its fauna includes the endangered Philippine Eagle and Philippine Deer, and the rare Mindanao flying squirrel, Giant Scops Owl, White Collared Kingfisher, Philippine Warty Pig, and Mindanao hornbill. It is considered a Key Biodiversity Area and is also regarded as one of the 17 Important Bird Areas. MIRNP was legislated as a national park on 22 June 2018 pursuant to Republic Act No. 11038 or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act. It covers an area of 4, 236 hectares and the 25 barangays of Nunungan. The DENR’s Biodiversity Management Bureau supports the protection of MIRNP through technical assistance in its protected area development and management initiatives. These include support to demarcation, updating of MIRNP's Protected Area Management Plan, reviewing of reports, and providing recommendations and guidance to resolutions issued by the Park's Protected Area Management Board. MIRNP was declared as an AHP during the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Environment on 31 October 2022, following the signing of the AHP certificate by the Secretary General of the ASEAN Dato Lim Jock Hoi and the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Environment Chairperson Dr. Siti Nurbaya Bakar. The post Mt. Inayawan in Lanao del Norte now a protected area appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mt. Inayawan in Lanao del Norte now a protective area
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Friday said the biodiversity-rich Mount Inayawan Range Natural Park (MIRNP) in Nunugan, Lanao del Norte is now a protected area of high conservation importance. In a statement, DENR said MIRNP was officially launched as an ASEAN Heritage Park (AHP) in ceremonies held during the 64th Araw ng Lanao del Norte-Environment Day celebration last 28 June. DENR OIC Assistant Secretary for Field Operations - Western Mindanao Arleigh Adorable and DENR Region 10 Regional Executive Director Henry Adornado joined Lanao del Norte Governor Imelda “Angging” Quibranza-Dimaporo, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, and other stakeholders in launching MIRNP as the 53rd AHP across the Southeast Asian region. The event saw the unveiling of the official landmark marking MIRNP as the eleventh AHP in the Philippines and the fourth in Region 10. Other AHPs in the country are Mt. Apo Natural Park in Cotabato, Mt. Iglit-Baco Natural Park in Mindoro, Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park in Bukidnon, Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park in Misamis Occidental, Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve in Laguna, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Palawan, Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary in Davao Oriental, Mt. Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok Natural Monument in Camiguin Island, Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary in Agusan del Sur, and Pasonanca Natural Park in Zamboanga City. The ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB), as the secretariat of the AHP Programme, shall provide the park’s protected area staff with capacity-building activities as well as logistical support for activities under the park’s management plan. Adorable said the MIRNP is of biological importance to the residents of Nunungan as it functions as an industrial and domestic water source and irrigation for Kapatagan Valley, the rice granary of Lanao del Norte. “Based on the recent Biodiversity Assessment and Monitoring conducted by DENR Region 10 and representatives of the local government unit of Nunungan, Lanao del Norte, MIRNP is an important refuge of a great number of diverse endemic fauna and flora species found in the old growth and mossy forest in the higher areas,” Adorable said. MIRNP is the largest remaining virgin forest in Lanao del Norte and is a critical watershed in the province. It covers three major lakes: Malaig, Pantar, and Sungod. It sustains the residents in the Municipality of Nunungan and those in the adjacent municipalities of Sapad, Kapatagan, and Lala. For the locals, the mountain is the center of their belief, their protector, and the provider of their needs for many centuries. The park’s flora is dominated by dipterocarp species while its fauna includes the endangered Philippine Eagle and Philippine Deer, and the rare Mindanao flying squirrel, Giant Scops Owl, White Collared Kingfisher, Philippine Warty Pig, and Mindanao hornbill. It is considered a Key Biodiversity Area and is also regarded as one of the 17 Important Bird Areas. MIRNP was legislated as a national park on 22 June 2018 pursuant to Republic Act No. 11038 or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act. It covers an area of 4, 236 hectares and the 25 barangays of Nunungan. The DENR’s Biodiversity Management Bureau supports the protection of MIRNP through technical assistance in its protected area development and management initiatives. These include support to demarcation, updating of MIRNP's Protected Area Management Plan, reviewing of reports, and providing recommendations and guidance to resolutions issued by the Park's Protected Area Management Board. MIRNP was declared as an AHP during the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Environment on 31 October 2022, following the signing of the AHP certificate by the Secretary General of the ASEAN Dato Lim Jock Hoi and the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Environment Chairperson Dr. Siti Nurbaya Bakar. The post Mt. Inayawan in Lanao del Norte now a protective area appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Balik-Tanaw | Rest
The setting of the sun signals the time to come home, a time for rest from the daily toils. But for the poor workers in highly urbanized areas rest is a luxury. The none-stop rotation of work propagated by capitalism, rest is counter-productive. The post Balik-Tanaw | Rest appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
How companies are helping DENR ensure an ‘Environment for Life’
On the occasion of the global celebration of World Environment Day, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources held an “Environment for Life” event, led by DENR Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga, that highlighted the department’s two-pronged blueprint for strategic and effective sustainable development and environmental action in the country. The key to these initiatives is to put in place comprehensive, whole-of-government and whole-of-society plans that are coupled with finding strategic partners in the form of LGUs and/or the private sector. Marubeni Philippines, a major integrated trading and investment business conglomerate from Japan; Holcim Philippines, a Swiss-based global building materials and aggregates company; the Razon-led Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc.; SM Supermalls of SMIC; San Miguel Corporation; DMCI Mining Corporation; HOPE/Century Pacific Food Inc.; Makilala Mining Company Inc.; and Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies Inc. shared the stage with the DENR and presented their respective efforts toward coherent, convergent and synergized environmental action. [caption id="attachment_149039" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOLCIM PHILIPPINES | Holcim Philippines decarbonized its operations and reduced carbon emissions per ton of cement by 7 percent.[/caption] A recurring theme in all the reports from these strategic partners was how their initiatives embodied the DENR mantra regarding natural resources: to protect, rehabilitate, restore and regenerate. And when it came to treating plastic waste, it was about reduce, reuse and recycle. Marubeni highlighted its carbon credit program through reforestation, a joint undertaking of Marubeni, DENR, Dacon Corp. and the University of the Philippines Los Baños. The initial site covers 10,000 hectares in Negros Occidental and aims to restore biodiversity, create employment in local communities and establish a carbon credit program. Holcim Philippines decarbonized its operations and reduced carbon emissions per ton of cement by 7 percent. In partnership with DENR, it will deploy a 100-percent solar powered catamaran, the Circular Explorer, operated by One Earth One Ocean, to clean up coastal areas from plastic waste in Manila Bay. There is a new project in Northern Mindanao to support coral and coastal ecosystems via a “marine bio-active concrete.” Prime Infra has a reforestation project, in partnership with DENR, covering a 1,800-hectare area within the Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape. This project integrates water security and watershed protection with forest carbon and biodiversity management, with the MoU serving as a blueprint for the wider implementation of nature-based solutions programs. SM Supermalls embraces sustainability through initiatives on energy conservation, solid waste reduction and water conservation. Its adoption of green and resilient designs in its buildings promotes disaster mitigation and prevention measures, along with solid waste management. Initiatives such as Trash to Cash Recycling, EV charging stations, regular coastal clean-ups, incentives for bicycle riders and the use of recycled water for cooling systems are all part of the SM Supermalls commitment to environmental action. San Miguel Corporation showcased its dredging and river widening work in rehabilitating the Pasig River and its tributaries, which has been effective in reducing floods and overspill in several strategic localities along the river’s course that has historically been notorious for flooding. SMC partners with DENR, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Metro Manila Development Authority and concerned LGUs on these initiatives. DMCI Mining shared its work in helping clean up the recent MT Princess Empress tanker accident and the resulting oil spill and expressed its appreciation for the opportunity to play a critical role in the cleanup of coastal areas in Caluya, Antique. Meanwhile, HOPE Foundation/Century Food Inc., a highly developed CSR sustainable program centered on coconut growing for its Vita Coco beverage, has generated livelihood opportunities for several targeted barangays and communities. It also joined the Plastic Exchange Program, which aims to reduce plastic waste and contribute to the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility Act. The Makilala Mining Company presentation offered a framework for the future of responsible mining, since the planned equity participation for the Balatoc indigenous community that owns the land can provide a regenerative sustainability model for the mining sector. The women in their senior management team also make Makilala a model of inclusion and diversity. Lastly, BEST highlighted its Trash to Cashback program and how it’s centered on a five-step program of Segregate, Exchange, Redeem, Collect and Recycle. The company’s Balik PET Bottle Program is in partnership with Coca-Cola Far East Limited and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners. The event was an effective showcase for how the DENR is developing new ways of working across several fronts to make the protection, preservation and regeneration of the country’s natural resources part of a comprehensive plan for resource development, to ensure that a sustainable future can be safeguarded for all. The post How companies are helping DENR ensure an ‘Environment for Life’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AboitizPower’s Hedcor observes 45th year
Aboitiz Power Corporation’s or AboitizPower subsidiary Hedcor Inc. turns 45 years old today, 25 May 2023. Since 1978, Hedcor harnessed indigenous and renewable sources of energy for business and communities. In the process, it has become one of the country’s top renewable energy companies that specializes in electricity generation from hydroelectric power. To date, Hedcor has 22 hydropower facilities in Luzon and Mindanao and a solar farm in the Visayas. These 22 hydropower plants — with a cumulative installed capacity of over 280 megawatts or MW — are spread out in Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, Benguet, Davao City, Davao del Sur and Bukidnon. Since 2021, Hedcor also operates San Carlos Sun Power Inc. or SacaSun in Negros Occidental with a peak capacity of 59-MW. Hydro sparks initiative Hedcor started when Ernesto Aboitiz found interest in hydro power plants during a visit to Baguio City. This eventually led to Hedcor entering into a 20-year contract to operate the four American-built Asin Hydro Power Plants in Tuba, Benguet, which were fully operational by 1986. The following year, Hedcor also took advantage of Executive Order 215 — which encouraged private entities to venture into power projects — becoming one of the first to explore potential areas for hydropower generation. The name “Hedcor” is derived from Hydro Electric Development Corp. It was the name given to the initial Davao Light and Power Company team which handled Hedcor’s first hydropower plants. In 2005, generating companies North Mini Hydro Corporation and Hedcor entered into a de facto merger with non-asset company Benguet Hydro Corporation, which was later renamed to Hedcor Inc. In 2009, Hedcor became a wholly-owned subsidiary of AboitizPower. Hedcor aspires to become the largest RE asset manager in the country and in the ASEAN region by growing its clean energy facilities to at least 40 by 2030. This includes more hydro and solar, as well as wind power plants. The post AboitizPower’s Hedcor observes 45th year appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bill seeks more Shari’ah Courts
Senator Robinhood Padilla has filed Senate Bill 2215 pushing for the establishment of additional Shari’ah Courts in the country to make an “equitable and speedy justice system” become accessible to more Muslim Filipinos. SB 2215 proposed amendments to Presidential Decree 1083, citing the 1987 Constitution’s provision that the “State shall recognize, respect and protect the rights of indigenous cultural communities to preserve and develop their cultures, traditions and institutions.” “This is to ensure that our Muslim brothers and sisters across the archipelago will have better access to the specialized knowledge and expertise of Shari’ah judges, promoting fair and equal treatment of Muslims under the law, regardless of their geographic location,” Padilla told reporters on Saturday. Padilla also stressed the growing number of Muslim Filipinos and the increasing rate of migration across the country “calls for the need to establish additional justice districts” to resolve disputes involving Muslim customary and personal laws. Under the proposed measure, three Shari’ah districts shall be established in addition to five existing district courts, which have territorial jurisdiction only over the Mindanao areas including in Sulu; Tawi-Tawi; Basilan, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur and Dipolog, Pagadian, and Zamboanga Cities; Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur and Iligan and Marawi Cities; and Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato City. The bill pushed for the sixth district for Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Camiguin, Cagayan de Oro City and provinces in Davao Region and Caraga. Seventh district for provinces within Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and Mimaropa; while the eighth district shall be built within Metro Manila Cordillera, and Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Bicol Region. The bill also seeks for the establishment of permanent stations should the three new districts will be established in Davao City (sixth district); Cebu City (seventh district); and Manila City (eighth district). So far, the existing permanent stations are in Jolo, Sulu; Bongao, Tawi-Tawi; Zamboanga City; Marawi City; and Cotabato City. These Shari’ah courts are under the supervision of the Supreme Court of the Philippines. Shari’ah District Court is roughly equivalent to the Regional Trial Court in the regular and secular Philippine court system — which is primarily bound by Islamic laws for the protection of life, property and mind of Muslim Filipinos. The post Bill seeks more Shari’ah Courts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go, go, go for the gold!
We have nothing but admiration and best wishes for our national athletes who are currently competing at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games. Together with my colleagues, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senator Francis Tolentino, Philippine Sports Commission Chair Dickie Bachmann and Commissioner Matthew Gaston, among other officials, we took the time last weekend to personally cheer on our representatives in the regional biennial sports meet in Cambodia. There, we witnessed once again the never-say-die attitude and spirit of all our Filipino athletes. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports and a firm advocate of long-term and grassroots sports development in the country, I was particularly filled with pride after seeing the dedication, discipline and undeniable talent of our athletes. That is why I remain committed to helping strengthen the development of sports in our communities. Sports keep our young people away from vices and criminality. As I always say, “Get into sports, stay away from drugs!” Last year, I sponsored and defended additional funding for the PSC during its 2023 budget deliberation, particularly for grassroots sports development and in support of athletes joining international competitions. What was supposedly just more or less P200 million proposed annual budget for PSC was increased by P1 billion through our efforts and with the support of my colleagues in the Senate. Particularly, the increase in the PSC’s 2023 budget is intended to support the Filipino athletes in international competitions, such as the Asian Games, SEA Games, Summer Olympics in Paris, ASEAN Para Games, Asian Indoor Martial Arts Games, World Combat Games, World Beach Games, and Asian Beach Games, among others. Portions of the funds were also allotted for the country’s hosting of the FIBA World Cup in 2023 as well as for grassroots sports programs, such as Batang Pinoy, the Philippine National Games, and those under the Sports Development Council. Moreover, funding was allocated for the development of sports infrastructure across the country, as well as for advanced research and development in sports sciences and sports technology. The provision of other financial assistance to Filipino athletes was also funded. I have also authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports in 2020 to help ensure that our promising young athletes can further hone their talents while getting quality education. More recently, I filed Senate Bill 423, or the proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022, with the aim of institutionalizing and providing a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development. Meanwhile, together with my team, I was in Batangas province on 8 May where I personally led a series of relief operations for 1,109 indigents in Batangas City and 1,000 more in San Pascual town. As an adopted son of CALABARZON and a fellow Batangueño, I am thankful for being able to serve them to the best of my capacity as a public servant. I likewise visited the newly renovated San Pascual Super Health Center and met with some health workers to listen to their concerns and discuss ways to improve the delivery of healthcare services in their communities. The Super Health Center is an improved version of a polyclinic, which seeks to provide our fellow Filipinos, especially those in remote areas, easier access to basic health services. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers and the Department of Health, 307 SHCs were funded in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. Last Tuesday, we conducted a public hearing by the Senate Committee on Health on mental health. As the committee’s chair, I reiterated that the state of our National Center for Mental Health is in need of utmost attention and improvement to preserve the basic right of all Filipinos to healthcare. Meanwhile, on 10 May, I led a relief effort for 672 fire victims from Pritil Public Market in Tondo, Manila. This was followed by a visit to Nueva Ecija last 11 May, where I personally inspected the Talavera bridge — a project I had earlier supported as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance. I then conducted a monitoring visit to the Malasakit Center at the Talavera General Hospital to personally assess its operations and ensure that indigent patients are given the assistance they need. In line with this, we extended relief to 79 patients and 406 front liners in the hospital while the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial aid to the qualified patients. On the same day, my team and I visited the town of Llanera to inspect its Super Health Center and attend the inauguration of the public wet market there, both of which I had advocated and supported. We then assisted 1,000 indigents in the town. As an adopted son of Nueva Ecija, I continue to support the province and help its people as much as I can. Separately, my outreach teams mounted several relief operations last week that benefitted 100 indigents in Veruela, 100 in Sta. Josefa, 40 in Esperanza, and 40 in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur; 227 in Botolan and 163 in Iba, Zambales; 520 Kibawe, Dangcagan, Cabanglasan and Malitbog, Bukidnon; 141 in General Natividad, Nueva Ecija; 2,199 in Gingoog City, 50 in Naawan, and 50 in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental; 332 in Minalin, Pampanga; 129 in Hamtic, Antique; 233 in Casiguran, and 166 in Dilasag, Aurora; and 44 in Sta. Maria and 45 in Malolos City, Bulacan. Fire victims, including 205 in Taytay, Rizal; 58 in Caloocan City; and 12 families in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan were likewise supported through our efforts. In the same way that our athletes remain unyielding in the face of tough competition, I hope that we can all remain resilient in the face of challenges. Through our support for one another and our unbeatable pusong Pilipino, let us all go for the gold and continue bringing honor to our country and our people. The post Go, go, go for the gold! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go supervises construction of new Super Health Center in Saguday
On Saturday, 22 April, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally inspected the site of a Super Health Center currently under construction in Saguday, Quirino. Go’s visit is part of his ongoing efforts to bring government services closer to communities and promote accessible healthcare services in the grassroots, especially in rural areas. The senator was accompanied by Philippine Charity and Sweepstakes Office Chair Junie Cua and local officials led by Governor Dakila “Dax” Cua, Congresswoman Midy Cua, Saguday Mayor Jerry Pagbilao, and Vice Mayor Ric Cadiente, among others. “Inilapit po natin ‘yung serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan. Sa kakaikot ko po sa buong Pilipinas, napakarami pong munisipyo na walang sariling health center,” cited Go in his speech. “‘Yung mga buntis, nanganganak na lang po sa tricycle, sa jeepney (dahil) sa sobrang layo ng mga ospital sa kanilang bayan. Kaya natutuwa po ako na isa po ang Saguday sa napili po na paglagyan po ng Super Health Center. Para po ito sa inyo, para po ito sa Pilipino. So gamitin n’yo po ito,” he expressed. Super Health Centers are improved versions of polyclinics that offer basic health services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. As identified by the Department of Health, other locations for the Super Health Centers in the province are in the towns of Aglipay and Nagtipunan. Through the concerted efforts of lawmakers, adequate funding has been allocated for the establishment of 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. “Natutuwa po ako na patapos na at pinalaki, pina-expand po ni Mayor (Pagbilao) ang inyong Super Health Center. At hindi lang po basta Super Health Center, talagang pinalaki para madagdagan pa po ang kapasidad ng inyong Super Health Center. Makakatulong po ito sa mga mahihirap nating mga kababayan,” Go remarked. The senator also highlighted Malasakit Centers nationwide, which are one-stop shops for the government's medical assistance programs. He is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act that institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. The 157 centers have so far assisted over seven million particularly poor and indigent patients across the country, according to the DOH. Go then led a relief operation at Lakas Bayan Center in Saguday where he and his team gave away grocery packs, masks, vitamins, snacks, and shirts to 500 struggling residents. They also provided bicycles, cellular phones, shoes, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance to help the residents with their daily necessities. “Para po akong pingpong, lipad dito, lipad doon. Kahapon po sa Calbayog (City) sa Samar, tumulong (kami) sa mga nasunugan. Ngayon, nandito naman ako sa Luzon. Noong isang linggo po, sa Mindanao. Halos ganito po, Mindanao, Visayas, Luzon (tapos) balik na naman ako ng Visayas, balik na naman ng Mindanao. Para makatulong sa kapwa ko Pilipino,” shared Go. “Iyan po ang pinangako ko sa inyo at hindi ko po matiis na nakaupo lang sa opisina habang ‘yung mga kababayan nating naghihirap ay nangangailangan ng tulong. Tutulong po ako sa abot ng aking makakaya. Bukas po ang aking tanggapan para sa inyong lahat,” he asserted. “Basta kaya ng oras at katawan ko, pupuntahan ko kayo para makatulong sa abot ng aking makakaya, masolusyunan ang inyong mga problema, marinig ang inyong mga hinaing, at makapag-iwan ng ngiti sa oras ng inyong pagdadalamhati,” he assured. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go also supported several road improvements, construction of a multipurpose building, installation of solar street lights, and acquisition of mini dump trucks in the town. Earlier that day, Go was in the town of Cabarroguis where he joined the 6th Quirino Motorismo event, monitored the operations of the Malasakit Center at Quirino Province Medical Center, and led another relief operation for more indigents. The post Go supervises construction of new Super Health Center in Saguday appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»