Ensure access to COVID-19 vaccine, Duterte tells APEC
President Rodrigo Duterte urged members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation to ensure that everyone has access to COVID-19 vaccines as the race to find one heats up......»»
PBBM urges gov’t, business sector collaboration
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called for a partnership between the government and the business sector to advance sustainable growth and climate action. In his speech at the APEC Business Advisory Council meeting in Cebu on Friday, Marcos underscored that the business sector is not only a major contributor to the economy but also an “aggressive agent of social change." Marcos added that the two sectors must work together to identify practical, pragmatic, and promising solutions to pressing issues such as energy insecurity, the triple threat of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. "We can pursue innovative technologies and approaches, for example, in the exploration of nuclear energy and small modular reactors as viable options for low or zero carbon energy sources," he said. Marcos also urged the business sector to help the government in its transition to clean energy. He said that shared investment would alleviate the financing burden of governments, while the expertise of businesses in areas such as planning, operations, and execution could be mainstreamed in the sustainability projects of the government. In addition, Marcos called for the standardization of data templates, indicators, and baselines across APEC economies. This would facilitate data collection and exchange, which would in turn strengthen technical cooperation within APEC. He also called for the business sector to take the lead in setting up standards for responsible business conduct that would encourage sustainable practices while balancing rapid growth. "Opportunities abound for our people if APEC preserves its strength as an incubator of ideas, driven in large part by the significant contributions of ABAC and the dynamism of the business community in our region," President Marcos said. He went on to say that the business sector needs to not only work with the government but also take the lead in setting standards for responsible business behavior that will support sustainable practices while keeping fast growth in check. The Chief Executive also thanked the ABAC Philippines for holding the Meeting and told its members to get ideas from their surroundings to finish the deliverables and make the most of the tools they have access to. The post PBBM urges gov’t, business sector collaboration appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Enhancing economic diplomacy worldwide
Since assuming office in 2022, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has embarked on 11 foreign visits aimed at enhancing diplomatic relations, fostering economic ties, and promoting international cooperation. His foreign visits hold significant importance in shaping the country’s global standing and pursuing its national interests. One of the Chief Executive’s primary objectives in his global forays is to strengthen regional ties within Southeast Asia. Recognizing the importance of regional cooperation, he has engaged with neighboring countries through bilateral meetings and participation in regional summits. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="161524,161523"] By promoting dialogue and collaboration, President Marcos Jr. aims to address mutual challenges such as climate change, maritime security, and terrorism that affect the region collectively. In particular, Marcos Jr. prioritized forging stronger ties with traditional allies like the United States, Japan and Australia. These visits have sought to reaffirm existing partnerships and explore new avenues for collaboration, particularly in the fields of trade, defense, and technology. Another critical aspect of the President’s foreign visits was to boost economic diplomacy and attract foreign investments to the Philippines. Recognizing the need for economic growth and job creation, he has engaged in high-level discussions with leaders and business representatives from various countries. These interactions have aimed to showcase the Philippines as an attractive investment destination and foster international confidence in the country’s economic prospects. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="161520,161521,161519,161514,161516,161518"] As part of his economic diplomacy efforts, President Marcos Jr. has also participated in international economic forums and trade summits, advocating for fair trade practices and increased market access for Philippine products and services. These engagements have helped position the Philippines as an active player in the global economy, enabling the country to benefit from the opportunities of an interconnected world. In these engagements, the President has demonstrated a commitment to addressing global challenges and representing the Philippines on the international stage. His participation in multilateral forums such as the United Nations General Assembly, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN Summit, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or APEC Summit have allowed him to engage with world leaders on various pressing issues. During his first year in office, President Marcos Jr. has been confronted with several international crises and humanitarian challenges. His foreign visits have presented opportunities to strengthen cooperation with other nations in times of need. As the world continues to grapple with complex challenges, the President’s diplomatic efforts have aimed to position the Philippines as a responsible and active member of the international community. The impact of his foreign visits will continue to shape the country’s relations with the world and its pursuit of national interests on the global stage. The post Enhancing economic diplomacy worldwide appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Recruiters warned: Shape up or else
The Bureau of Immigration on Thursday issued a warning to recruiters in the country to stop the practice of enticing people looking for jobs abroad to present visas for tourism. BI commissioner Norman Tansingco’s warning comes following the agency’s intercepted cases of human trafficking at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, where victims were made to pose as tourists bound for Singapore but upon secondary inspection, the victims were found to be actually bound for the United Arab Emirates where they were illegally recruited to work. The BI chief said that their officers were able to access a system that allows them to verify certain concealed visas. The BI chief disclosed that on 16 July, a 19-year-old female victim was intercepted at NAIA Terminal 1 after presenting herself as an employee of a local company in the Philippines, but it was found out that she was recruited via social media to work in Dubai for a club resort. On the following day, a 26-year-old female victim was also intercepted in the same terminal after initially claiming to be a businesswoman traveling to Singapore to attend the APEC international conference on recent developments in business marketing strategies. However, she later admitted to presenting dubious documents, which were all given to her by her recruiter outside the airport terminal. She was found to have a concealed visa to the UAE, where she was hired to work as a waitress. The BI chief said that their officers were able to access a system that allows them to verify certain concealed visas. Tansingco added that in this modern day and age, the old method of hiding sheets of folded visas can now be detected. “Our kababayans are warned not to agree to this illegal practice, which only puts them at risk of exploitation,” Tansingco said. Both women were immediately referred to the Inter-Agency Council against Trafficking for debriefing and assistance in filing cases against their recruiters. The post Recruiters warned: Shape up or else appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The Black Sea Grain Initiative
The Black Sea region is known as the world’s major grain-producing area that includes wheat, corn, and barley. As the world’s significant producer and exporter of various grains, the region influences global grain prices and availability. Its production helps meet the demand for food commodities, contributing to stable food supplies and mitigating risks of food shortages. On the regional economic development front, the region supports rural development, job creation, and export revenues that impact the overall economic growth and stability of many economies. Both Ukraine and the Russian Federation are major players in the global grain trade with exports extending to the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Asia. The Black Sea Grain Initiative or BSGI has already demonstrated its significance to the international trade scene by enabling the export of more than 32 million metric tons of foodstuff from three Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea to 45 countries across three continents. The Food and Agriculture Organization reported that since March 2022, there has been a 22-percent drop in world food prices. The procurement of 700,000 tons of wheat through the BGSI by the World Food Programme helped support humanitarian operations. The continued facilitation of Ukrainian and Russian exports of food and fertilizer remains critical to global food security. From a local business perspective, this initiative holds great significance as it has ensured a stable and reliable source of grains for the Philippines. The accessibility of high-quality and cheaper grains, as well as inexpensive fertilizer from the Black Sea region, has been a driving force behind the growth and sustainability of various sectors within our local economy, including food processing, livestock, and poultry, among others. The availability and affordability of a consistent grain supply is essential to maintaining the competitiveness and profitability of these industries. The International Chamber of Commerce or ICC has played a central role in the ideation of the BSGI and continues to work closely with the United Nations for the effective implementation of the said initiative. Unfortunately, the BSGI is expiring this July and an urgent call has been made for governments, ASEAN, APEC, business organizations, and the rest of the world to speak out — in the media and through diplomatic channels — and express the desire of the international community to see the BSGI extended for a further term. ICC Philippines has written the Russian and Ukrainian envoys to help support the continuance of BSGI. Indeed, allowing the initiative to lapse will put millions of people’s access to the supply and low cost of food in grave danger with devastating social, economic, and human repercussions. ICC Philippines enjoins other business organizations in this move to further the life of the BSGI. The post The Black Sea Grain Initiative appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Committed to equity, sustainability, opportunity
As the Philippines looks forward to hosting the ABAC 3 (Asean Business Advisory Council) meeting in Cebu, the Aboitiz group acts as a key driver in advancing the shared goals of equity, sustainability and opportunity. The invaluable expertise of Aboitiz president and CEO and ABAC PH member Sabin Aboitiz contribute significantly to the Aboitiz Group’s endeavors and enhance the alignment between ABAC's vision and strategies. Sabin Aboitiz demonstrates the Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to sustainability. The focus on exploring the viability of nuclear energy via small modular reactors highlights the Group's interest in advancing clean and efficient energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change. Additionally, the integration of climate risk scenarios underscores the Group's proactive approach to understanding and addressing the potential risks and challenges posed by climate change. "At Aboitiz, we believe that businesses have a crucial role to play in promoting equity, sustainability and opportunity," Sabin Aboitiz said. "Through our collective efforts, we are committed to making a positive impact on society and fostering a better future for all." Apart from being the pioneer of renewable energy in the Philippines with 1249.17MW of total net sellable renewable energy capacity, AboitizPower, the energy arm of the Aboitiz Group, has shown commitment in promoting equity and inclusion within the company. Testament to that is the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging program, which aims to push the envelope further in creating a safe and welcoming workplace for all. The DEIB program includes the establishment of resource networks for LGBT+, women at work, and “special life” team members, which include single parents and differently-abled workers. [caption id="attachment_149059" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Aboitiz Group drives Philippine development through inclusive growth. In Cebu City, reliable power empowers the town, improving lives and supporting economic growth and trade among APEC economies. Union Bank of the Philippines, led by Aboitiz, promotes financial inclusion through digital banking nationwide.[/caption] Group wide, Aboitiz also implements several initiatives that further celebrate diversity and maintain an inclusive workplace. Among these are information sessions and people stories for Women’s Month, Pride Month and Mental Health Month. The company also boasts a balanced representation of male and female team members, fostering an environment that values gender equality and provides equal opportunities for all. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, AboitizPower and Aboitiz InfraCapital are proud member companies of the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, a nonprofit organization advocating workplace gender equality. Aboitiz understands that the overall success of the company also depends on the individual success of the team members. And by creating a culture where everyone feels valued, respected and included, the Aboitiz group makes sure that no one is left behind in the journey toward progress. The Aboitiz-led UnionBank of the Philippines plays an important role in the group’s digitalization path, driven by its dedication to “Tech-Up Pilipinas” and fostering widespread economic growth. Environmental stewardship also lies at the core of Aboitiz’s efforts, as the company actively pursues environmentally responsible practices and solutions that meet the sustainable development goals set by the United Nations. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, the holding company of the Aboitiz Group, has placed sustainability at the forefront of its business strategy. The Aboitiz Cleanergy Park, located at the tip coast of Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City, is a huge part of Aboitiz's sustainability efforts. The eight-hectare biodiversity park serves as a haven for migratory and local birds, various mangrove species, a pawikan rescue center facility and a nesting ground for critically endangered sea turtles. By partnering with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Aboitiz continues to live out its sustainability efforts by also spearheading the protection and rehabilitation of Boracay Wetland No.4. As a linear urban park, the Boracay Wetland will offer a range of recreational activities that incorporate eco-friendly tourism designs, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Apart from biodiversity conservation, Aboitiz InfraCapital, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, advocates better water resource management via corporations like Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc. and LIMA Water Corporation. Apo Agua is building one of the Philippines’ largest private bulk water supply facilities in Davao City, which harnesses sustainable water sources and provides reliable water supply to the growing population of Davao City. The project not only ensures access to clean water but also supports the local economy and promotes environmental stewardship. The post Committed to equity, sustainability, opportunity appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
GHG emission-reduction in transport sector pushed
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation’s (APEC) member countries can consider mode-specific policies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the transportation sector, responsible for one-fifth of the world’s total carbon dioxide emissions, including securing a greener future for shipping and switching to zero-emission vehicles on the road. Emmanuel San Andres, a senior analyst at the APEC Policy Support Unit, said an effective policy intervention is needed to spur innovations and practical solutions that can reduce GHG emissions quickly and effectively. “Contributing 77 percent of transport emissions globally in 2021, making headway in decarbonizing land transportation is crucial to reduce overall carbon emissions,” he said in an APEC bulletin. Vehicle electrification On the supply side, San Andres said vehicle electrification is the fastest and most efficient way to reduce the carbon footprint of land transportation. He said governments need to adopt policies to align the signals in the electric vehicle (EV) market. San Andres said that for producers, governments can implement vehicle supply regulations, which can be done by setting fuel performance mandates. “For consumers, governments can provide purchase and usage incentives, such as rewarding consumers with free or discounted parking among other benefits. Providing convenience through easy access to public charging stations and information campaigns can also influence consumers’ decision to buy EVs,” he said. On the demand side, San Andres said policymakers should improve the coverage and quality of public transportation as its usage is associated with 45 percent lower CO2 emissions relative to privately owned vehicles. Promote carpooling “This can be paired with promoting carpooling infrastructure and encouraging walking and cycling through well-designed urban spaces, with the goal of dampening demand for private vehicles on the road,” he added. The post GHG emission-reduction in transport sector pushed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ensure access to COVID-19 vaccine, Duterte tells APEC
President Rodrigo Duterte urged members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation to ensure that everyone has access to COVID-19 vaccines as the race to find one heats up......»»
Akbayan to Sara: You don’t have to be president to speak vs China
MANILA, Philippines — Party-list group Akbayan said on Thursday that Vice President Sara Duterte does not have to be a president of the country for her to call out China’s intrusive actions over the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Empathy and a moral backbone is just what it takes to stand up with fisherfolk and frontline.....»»
LIST: Saint movies to watch this Holy Week
YouTube offers free access to films on the lives of Catholic Saints in time for the Holy Week. .....»»
Roque bares Duterte, China agreement to respect status quo in WPS
Roque bares Duterte, China agreement to respect status quo in WPS.....»»
7 nanlaban drug suspects dead after Baste Duterte declares drug war
Less than a week after Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte declared a "war on drugs" in the city, at least seven drug suspects were killed during a buy-bust operation in the city — violence that highlights the seriousness of the mayor's recent threat of outright killing persons caught using illegal drugs......»»
Marcos tells Filipinos to serve others during Holy Week
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s message to Filipinos during Holy Week encourages tham to "serve others.".....»»
CHR alarmed by war vs drugs in Davao City
THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is alarmed by Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte’s “war against drugs”, as seven drug users were killed from different barangays in the city over the weekend, just a few hours after his declaration......»»
Revisiting Uniteam (Last of 2 parts)
THE Uniteam coalition of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, described by many political analysts as the "dream team", had come a long way since sweeping the 2022 elections......»»
Marcos Jr. eyes stronger maritime ties with India
The Philippines is seeking stronger maritime security cooperation with India to ensure the safety of seafarers from both nations as the world’s oceans are becoming more dangerous for commercial shipping, President Marcos said......»»
Roque: Xi, Duterte agreed to keep West Philippines Sea status quo
The Philippines under former president Rodrigo Duterte had a “gentleman’s agreement” with China to keep the status quo in the West Philippine Sea, a former Cabinet official said yesterday, as fresh tensions surround the WPS due to recent incursions by Beijing that targeted a Filipino resupply mission and a research team......»»
CHR probes Davao drug war deaths
The Commission on Human Rights yesterday expressed grave concern over Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte’s recent declaration of a war on drugs in the city......»»
Drug killings 95 percent lower than in previous admin
The number of deaths recorded under the Marcos administration’s war on drugs has decreased by over 95 percent, in contrast to the bloody anti-drug campaign of his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte......»»
DOH orders 5 million measles vaccine doses
The Department of Health has procured five million doses of measles vaccine as part of its renewed and intensified campaign against increasing cases of measles in the country......»»
‘Serenade of the Seas’ arrival restarts Subic cruise tourism program
The arrival here of GTS Serenade of the Seas, a 12-decker cruise liner operated by Royal Caribbean International, is expected to resurrect Subic’s cruise tourism program, which had gained momentum before being halted by the COVID-19 pandemic three years ago......»»