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Delivery drivers urge Mayor Baste for business permit exemption
Title: Delivery Drivers Seek Exemption from Business Permit Requirement A group of delivery drivers in Davao is urging Mayor Sebastian Duterte to exempt them from the mandatory business permits. The drivers, including those from various delivery apps such as Grab and FoodPanda, are concerned about the financial burden imposed by the business permits, which range from P2,000 to P6,000. They argue that this requirement is unique to Davao City among all cities and provinces in the Philippines. Grab rider Rolando Atico emphasized the need for solidarity among all delivery drivers, regardless of the app they work for. He urged fellow drivers to support each other, as the financial impact may extend beyond just Grab and FoodPanda. Atico also requested Mayor Duterte to reconsider the requirement and reinstate the previous occupational permit, which only cost P125. The group is facing a 30-day deadline to obtain the business permits, and they are citing financial constraints as a reason for their request for an extension. Failure to comply could result in their removal from the delivery platforms, jeopardizing their livelihoods. Additionally, they are advocating for changes to Davao City's Revenue Code, proposing a model similar to Cebu City, where only an occupational permit is required. The drivers are also calling for an inquiry into the lack of transparency and unilateral actions of food delivery companies, particularly concerning rider capitalization and financial concerns. They believe that a thorough investigation will help ensure fairness and equity in their financial obligations and working relationship with the delivery companies. Maribel Paguican, the Business Bureau officer-in-charge, stated that non-certified delivery riders categorized as service contractors must obtain a business permit. She mentioned two permits for occupational and business activities, with a discounted structure for delivery riders. However, concerns have been raised about increased taxes, potentially ranging from P3,000 to P6,000, along with an additional tax on top of the declared income of P1,400. The delivery drivers' plea for exemption from the business permit requirement reflects their concerns about the financial impact and the potential threat to their livelihoods. Their call for solidarity and support from fellow drivers highlights the urgency of the situation. This story sheds light on the challenges faced by delivery drivers in Davao and the implications of the business permit requirement on their financial well-being. It also underscores their efforts to seek fairness and equity in their working relationship with the authorities and delivery companies......»»
Around P10M in illegal drugs seized in two-day anti-drug ops in Central Visayas
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Close to 150 suspected drug personalities, and illegal drugs worth around P10 million were seized following a two-day anti-drug operation in Central Visayas. Police in the region conducted another round of Simultaneous Anti-Criminality and Law Enforcement Operations (Sacleo) over the weekend, Police Lt. Col. Gerard Ace Pelare, spokesperson of the Police.....»»
Save the Children, EU’s Project SCOPE transformed lives of 19,000 Persons with Disabilities
Project SCOPE empowered children with disabilities, their parents, caregivers, organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), and other civil society organizations (CSOs) to engage effectively with local governments by expressing their rights and monitoring the use of public resources for their benefit......»»
Police to parents: Keep minors at home during curfew hours
CEBU CITY, Philippines – A top Cebu City police official advised parents to make sure that their children are inside their homes during curfew hours to ensure their safety. Police Lieutenant Colonel Janette Rafter, Deputy Director for Operations of Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), said that this will ensure that children are safe from crimes.....»»
Travel bans on extremist Israeli settlers
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters have announced travel bans on a number of extremist Israeli settlers who have committed violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank. "New Zealand is seriously concerned by the significant increase in extremist violence perpetrated by Israeli settlers against Palestinian popu.....»»
Marcos signs expanded Centenarian Law
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law Republic Act 11982 on Monday granting benefits to octogenarians and nonagenarians. The law covers Filipinos residing in the Philippines or abroad......»»
Students actively campaign against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children
With the Philippines ranking as the number one hotspot of online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) and child sexual abuse and exploitation materials (CSAEM), students in Davao are speaking up and actively campaigning for digital protection and internet safety. “My only hope for digital technology in the future is for it to be […].....»»
Pelare tells motel, lodge operators to prohibit entry of minors on Valentine’s Day
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Minors should never be allowed to enter lodges and motels, especially this Valentine’s Day, so that they won’t be victimized by human traffickers. Those who will defy this mandate will be charged for conspiracy in relation to Republic Act 7610 or “An Act Providing For Stronger Deterrence And Special Protection Against.....»»
How safe is our space?
Safe Spaces Act (Bawal Bastos Law) or the Republic Act No. 11313 was enacted into law in April 2019. It was signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte to increase protection against sexual harassment whether online or in the physical space. This covers all forms of gender-based sexual harassment (GBSH) committed in public spaces, educational or training institutions, workplaces, and online spaces......»»
PhilSys ID registration now open for kids under 4 years old
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Children up to four years old can now sign up for their Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) ID, according to an official from the Philippine Statistics Authority in Central Visayas (PSA-7). Edwina Carriaga, the chief administrative officer of PSA-7, told CDN Digital that parents don’t need to bring their children to the registration.....»»
FPRRD opposes disguised Charter change initiative
Former President Rodrigo R. Duterte has vehemently opposed the disguised People’s Initiative for Charter change, denouncing the cash-for-signature campaign as repugnant and a disgraceful act during a YouTube interview with Banateros Brothers on January 22, 2024. Duterte emphasized his disapproval of the initiative, urging for it to be halted, particularly criticizing the payment of individuals to sign the documents. He warned that such actions could lead to a new Constitution that might destroy the nation and open avenues for political abuses. Duterte stressed the importance of democracy in the Philippines, asserting that those seeking to remain in power should go through the electoral process. He highlighted that a well-performing and non-corrupt individual would retain power, while those with poor performance would be ousted through the electoral process. Expressing satisfaction with the current Constitution, Duterte argued that it has contributed to stability, reducing conflicts with groups like the New People's Army (NPA). He strongly advised against meddling with the Constitution, cautioning that it would only bring trouble to the country. Duterte pledged active opposition to the initiative, stating that he would campaign against it. Additionally, residents of Calinan District, Vice President Sara Duterte, and Representatives Isidro Ungab and Paolo Pulong Duterte have also voiced opposition to the People's Initiative for Charter Change. Margarita Atty. Migs Nograles, the representative of the Pwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Partylist, alleged to have started the cha-cha signature campaign, has yet to issue an official statement on the matter as of the latest update. Related stories include the denouncement of alleged `vote buying’ in signing the petition for Cha-cha by Davao City lawmakers, Vice President Duterte's condemnation of the cash-for-signature drive, and a prayer rally against PI’s Cha-cha on Jan 28......»»
A woman s femininity
During this Women’s Month, we appreciate with gratitude, the significance of the role of women in society, mainly through their important contribution in helping build pleasant and well-managed family life and in forming children, our future......»»
11 NPA rebels face raps over ambush of troops
The Department of Justice has recommended the filing of charges for violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act against 11 New People’s Army rebels in connection with the ambush of Army soldiers in Occidental Mindoro last year......»»
Meet the 4 activists charged with anti-terror law
At least 98 activists, humanitarian and church workers are facing Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012 charges according to Karapatan. They described these laws as “twin terror laws” that are being used against activists, humanitarian workers and those who serve the welfare of the marginalized. The post Meet the 4 activists charged with anti-terror law appeared first on Bulatlat......»»
Increasing demand for electric vehicles
The Department of Energy (DOE) in Mindanao has observed a growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs). Engr. Adrian Mel B. Delola, a Science Research Specialist II at DOE Mindanao Field Office, discussed this trend during the Kapehan sa Dabaw on January 15, 2024. He highlighted the impact of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (Evida Law), implemented on April 15, 2022, which has contributed to the increasing interest in EVs. Delola acknowledged that the current cost of EVs is a concern but expressed optimism that as demand rises, the number of charging stations will increase and the cost of units will subsequently decrease. He also addressed the presence of hybrid models in key cities in Mindanao and the challenge of limited car dealerships facilitating their distribution. Additionally, Delola touched on the use of e-trikes, classified as light EVs under RA 11697, and the regulations regarding their weight and use on national highways. The DOE is working with various agencies to address issues related to the registration and use of e-trikes. Sellers are also advising consumers on the proper use of e-trikes for private purposes and cautioning against their use on national highways......»»
TURNING POINT: Too Poor Against Poverty
NAAWAN, Misamis Oriental (MindaNews / 06 March) – Poverty is unquestionably the key driver of human trafficking. Crime syndicates, including religious groups, use the poor to advance their interest. Traffickers exploit women and children from rural communities, conflict- and disaster-affected areas, and impoverished urban centers in sex trafficking, forced domestic work, forced begging, and other […].....»»
Xinhua world economic news summary at 0900 GMT, March 5
KIEV -- Ukraine stands ready to extend gas transit from Russia if there is a request from the European Union (EU) countries, the Interfax-Ukraine news agency reported Monday, citing Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. "If the European countries act as a consortium or one of the European partners will act as a transit country for their gas -- we are ready to provide such a service," Shmyhal told a press confe.....»»
VP Sara ready to face ICC charges only before a Filipino court
Vice President Sara Duterte expressed her readiness to confront any allegations against her but insisted that she would only do so in front of a Filipino judge and within the jurisdiction of a Filipino court. In a statement on her Facebook page, she emphasized her refusal to participate in any process that could tarnish the reputation and integrity of the Philippine judiciary system. Duterte adamantly opposed the involvement of foreign entities in the country's legal affairs, citing it as a dishonor to the sacrifices made by Filipino heroes for the nation's freedom. Duterte, who previously served as vice mayor and mayor of Davao City, vehemently denied any involvement in the Davao Death Squad during her terms in office. She expressed dismay over the sudden appearance of a witness against her in the International Criminal Court (ICC) after assuming the vice presidency. Duterte dismissed the accusations and questioned the motives behind the allegations, asserting her capability to accomplish tasks without resorting to unlawful means. In a related development, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. voiced his refusal to acknowledge the ICC's jurisdiction in the Philippines, considering it a threat to the country's sovereignty. He issued a directive for all government agencies to refrain from cooperating with the ICC, emphasizing the nation's non-recognition of the court's authority. Former senator Antonio Trillanes IV claimed that ICC investigators had gathered substantial evidence against former President Rodrigo Duterte regarding his administration's war on drugs. He anticipated an imminent issuance of an arrest warrant against the former president. Former President Rodrigo Duterte condemned the ICC's decision to initiate a preliminary investigation into the war on drugs, labeling it an insult to the Philippines and challenging the court's jurisdiction within the country. During his presidency, he initiated the withdrawal of the Philippines' membership from the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC. The ICC appeals chamber recently granted a request to resume the investigation into alleged crimes against humanity related to the Philippines' controversial drug campaign, spanning from November 2011 to March 2019. The developments surrounding the ICC's probe into the Philippines' internal affairs have sparked a contentious debate, with key political figures and rights groups expressing divergent views on the matter. The ongoing tensions between the Philippines and the ICC underscore the complex intersection of international law, national sovereignty, and human rights issues......»»
Malacañang helps fast-track anti-doping requirements as PH faces int’l sports ban
The Philippines continues to race against time as the World Anti-Doping Agency threatens a blanket ban on all international events due to the country's non-compliance of its requirements.....»»
Women s Voices Have Power to Drive Change
Every March 8, International Women's Day, women flood the streets in countries around the world to commemorate hard-won victories for women's rights and to fight for more. It's a time to celebrate advances while sharing our frustrations about too-slow progress or even backsliding.But we're only able to express our joy and rage when we enjoy freedom of expression. Without it, realizing other rights is nearly impo.....»»