Globe cellsite builds bring jobs, good employment benefits
One of the hardest sectors hit by the implementation of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) is the country’s workforce. The travel restrictions, health protocols and practically stoppage of thousands of companies and industries all over Luzon have resulted in many layoffs and changes on how people work as compared to the pre-COVID19 routine......»»
Globe cell site builds bring jobs, good employment benefits
One of the hardest sectors hit by the implementation of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) is the country’s workforce. The travel restrictions, health protocols, and practically stoppage of thousands of companies and industries all over Luzon have resulted in many layoffs and changes in how people work as compared to the pre-COVID19 routine. Companies like […] The post Globe cell site builds bring jobs, good employment benefits appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hyundai announces ‘Revive and Drive’ promo
Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. has launched a new initiative, the "Revive & Drive Promo," aimed at ensuring that Hyundai owners continue to enjoy the reliability and efficiency of their vehicles, even past the warranty period. The promotional campaign, which runs from 15 October to 15 December, is available at all authorized Hyundai dealerships across the nation. The "Revive & Drive Promo" is tailored to cater to the needs of customers who own Hyundai vehicles purchased in the year 2018 or earlier, covering range of models including the i10, Santa Fe, Eon, Grand Starex, Accent, Sonata, Elantra, Veloster, Tucson, and H100. The primary focus of this program is to offer qualified owners an opportunity to bring their vehicles in for an oil change, which then entitles them to a complimentary care package. This package includes free labor, an oil filter, and a drain plug washer. Moreover, the vehicles will undergo a comprehensive 23-point check-up and a GDS scan, along with a courtesy exterior wash and interior wipe-down, all at no extra cost. These services are to be rendered by Hyundai-trained and certified technicians, ensuring that only Hyundai Genuine Parts are used in the process. This approach aligns with the brand’s endeavor to maintain the manufacturer standards and quality, aimed at delivering a safer and smoother performance for all Hyundai vehicles involved in the program. Cecil Capacete, the managing director of HMPH, expressed the brand’s dedication towards supporting the needs of their loyal customer base, not just the new ones. He stated: “We wish to show all our customers, not just the new ones, that Hyundai is here for them throughout the entire lifecycle of their vehicles. This particular program is meant to support the needs of our loyal out-of-warranty customers.” He further acknowledged a common oversight where maintenance of vehicles aged five years and beyond is often neglected. Through this initiative, Hyundai aims to break this cycle and instill a sense of proactiveness among its customers towards regular maintenance, which in turn contributes to safer roads and ensures the well-being of the occupants. Besides the aforementioned benefits, this limited time offer can also be availed in conjunction with other ongoing local dealer promotions, making it a more attractive proposition for Hyundai owners. Booking an appointment in advance is highly recommended and can be done through the Booking Service on the Hyundai Service Network. Alternatively, customers can also reach out directly to their preferred dealership. The post Hyundai announces ‘Revive and Drive’ promo appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BFP snubs Belmonte’s fire marshal pick
The controversy continues on the ranks of the Bureau of Fire Protection as reports that the leadership of the BFP is snubbing the order of Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte of appointing a fire marshal in the Quezon City Fire Department. This comes as Daily Tribune discovered that most of fire safety inspectors and firefighters at the QCFD are saying that there exist the alleged “bata-bata” system and a “quota system” in the agency. Just recently, the QCFD held a turnover ceremony at the BFP National Capital Region office where Sr. Supt. Florian Guerrero was named as the next District Fire Marshal of Quezon City, replacing Sr. Supt. Aristotle Bañaga. Bañaga, was relieved because of unfortunate fire incident a couple of months ago where a fire gutted a residential house converted into a warehouse located at Barangay Tandang Sora which resulted to 15 deaths — which included retired General George Ancheta. Ancheta was an uncle of Quezon City Council Majority Leader Dorothy Delarmente, who is also the chairperson of the Committee on Laws, Rules and Internal Government. During the council’s investigation, it was discovered that there were indeed lapses committed by QCFD for their failure to conduct the required yearly inspection based on the provision of the Fire Code of the Philippines and its Revised IRR. Though records showed that there were inspections undertaken in the year 2021, it failed to notice an unauthorized business activities at the address where the blaze killed 15 people. Because no inspection was conducted in 2022 and 2023. The incident prompted Belmonte to recommend to Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. — who has jurisdiction over BFP — the relief of Bañaga and his Fire Safety Enforcement Section head Chief Inspector Dominic Salvacion. Abalos then ordered another thorough investigation and let BFP chief director Louie Puracan handle the situation. Puracan instructed Bañaga to take a leave and passed the judgement to BFP-NCR chief Region head Chief Supt. Nahum Tarroza who immediately issue an order dated 18 September 2023, appointing Bañaga’s deputy, Supt. Gilbert Arellano as “caretaker” of the Office of the Quezon City Fire Marshal. However, Tarroza has also appointed Supt. Rowena Gollod, an “under rank” official, who was in “floating status” for being assigned at the Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit as the Deputy Fire Marshal, replacing Arellano. BFP sources disclosed that Tarroza is allegedly trying to prevent the city government from appointing its own choice for fire marshal because the BFP leadership allegedly benefits from the “bata-bata” and “quota system” in which fire marshals are required to “remit” certain amount of money to the BFP for every Fire Safety Inspection Certificate that they issue. This quota system allegedly could bring in as much as P100,000 per month for BFP higher-ups. In Quezon City, the fire marshal should allegedly accumulate and “remit” P300,000 monthly. P100,000 each for BFP national and metropolis office, and for two DILG padrinos who are holding an Undersecretary positions, a former Quezon City official and the other, a retired firefighter, who could influence Abalos on every BFP issue. Appreciating the BFP gesture of relieving Bañaga and Salvacion without any administrative orders, Belmonte wrote Puracan on 2 October 2023, expressing her thanks to the BFP and recommended that she preferred to have Sr. Supt. Dennis Molo — a former QCFD Deputy — as the Chief of the QCFD and Arellano as his deputy. “As a seasoned Fire Officer, F/SSupt. Molo has generously shared extensive knowledge, experience and expertise with the City Goverment. His contributions in the crafting of public safety policies, formulating and recommending fire safety plans, executing on-the- ground operations and proposing engagement with potential national and international partners-stakeholders have been highly appreciated. For his part, F/Supt. Arellano, as lawyer, has been instrumental in his knowledge of the Fire Code, DILG directives and other relevant laws.” Belmonte wrote in her recommendation letter to Puracan. Puracan then responded to Belmonte by rationalizing his decision in designating Guerrero and brushed aside the Mayor’s recommendation to assign Molo as QCFD Marshal by saying the latter should process first his transfer to the BFP-NCR, as Molo was already assigned at BFP-Region 4A office. The post BFP snubs Belmonte’s fire marshal pick appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Advancing OFWs’ welfare, protecting Filipinos abroad
Overseas Filipino Workers, or OFWs, are indeed modern-day heroes. They help boost our economy, but more importantly, they help uplift the lives of their families to give them a better future and also showcase Filipinos' talents, skills, and work ethic to the world. I was in London, United Kingdom last week for an official trip upon the invitation of the British Group Inter-Parliament Union. Led by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and co-head of delegation Senator Grace Poe, we embarked on several meetings aimed at strengthening relations of the Philippine Senate with our counterparts in the UK parliament to exchange best practices in policymaking while enhancing bilateral relations, fostering economic security, exploring areas of cooperation between the two countries, and promoting the welfare of Filipinos working there. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, I also expressed my gratitude to the UK for donating vaccines during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic. Moreover, we thanked them for other development assistance extended by the UK to the Philippines and for their help in strengthening the Bangsamoro Region. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, I also maximized the visit to highlight efforts in promoting the welfare of more than 200,000 OFWs in the UK, particularly the more or less 40,000 Filipino nurses working there. We were able to raise to the UK policymakers the concerns of Filipino nurses regarding their rights to proper benefits, just compensation, and a safe working environment. We should be proud of Filipino medical frontliners in the UK, particularly nurses who are among the world’s finest. Take, for example, May Parsons, a Filipina-British nurse who became known globally for administering the first COVID-19 vaccine outside of a clinical trial and receiving the UK's George Cross Award. I have co-sponsored a Senate resolution earlier recognizing and commending her achievement. After our official meetings, I met with a group of OFWs, some of them were fellow Dabawenyos, Filipino Muslims, Ilonggos, and Ilocanos, among others. The stories they shared were proof of how resilient our OFWs are. Despite their sacrifices, homesickness, and worries about their families in their hometowns, they maintain their cheerfulness and positive outlook. I brought some good news to our OFWs by informing them about the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) through Republic Act No. 11641, a legislation for which I am proud to be one of the authors and co-sponsors in the Senate. This measure streamlines the organization and functions of all government agencies related to overseas employment and migration to better address the needs and concerns of migrant workers. I have also filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2297 to institutionalize the OFW Hospital and ensure its continuous operation in San Fernando City, Pampanga, primarily intended for OFWs and eligible dependents. More importantly, a Malasakit Center is operational there to help reduce their out-of-pocket expenses. The establishment of the DMW, the OFW Hospital, and its own Malasakit Center are just a few of our dreams that are now realities for Filipinos to benefit from. These are testaments of our commitment to promote the welfare of migrant workers and their dependents. However, we acknowledge that there is more work to be done. That is why we continue to listen to their concerns, serve them to the best of our abilities, and pursue initiatives to further their cause. I have also filed SBN 2414, which seeks to establish OFW wards in Department of Health (DOH) hospitals if enacted into law. While our efforts continue to safeguard the welfare of Filipinos abroad, our commitment to serve Filipinos facing challenges in their communities remains unwavering. This week, we had groundbreaking ceremonies for Super Health Centers in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte; Brgy. Labangon in Cebu City; Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur; and in Tigbauan, Iloilo. Through the collective efforts of DOH, LGUs, and fellow lawmakers, we continue to advocate for establishing more community health facilities to help bring public health services closer to those needing medical attention. We have also assisted 1,000 indigents in Llanera, Nueva Ecija, with the office of Cong. Jose Padiernos; 500 members from various sectors in Barangay Mintal, Davao City; 1,900 in Caloocan City, with the office of Congresswoman Mitch Cajayon-Uy. In Cebu City, we also distributed aid to 1,700 residents of the South District with Congressman Edu Rama; 450 in Nagcarlan, Laguna, with Mayor Elmor Vita and Councilor Rey Comendador; and 333 in Pulupandan, Negros Occidental, in collaboration with the Malasakit@Bayanihan group. We also aided 1,000 United Senior Citizens Association members of Quezon City, with Congresswoman Mila Magsaysay, Senator Robin Padilla, and private sector volunteer organizations. My office also extended additional aid to 93 displaced workers in Lumban, Laguna; 210 in Pilar; 217 in Carmen and Batuan in Bohol. DOLE also gave qualified beneficiaries temporary employment. We also supported 200 scholars during their TESDA Orientation in Daet, Camarines Norte. There are also 43 residents of Davao City and nine in La Paz, Agusan del Sur, who were victims of fires and 32 victims of flooding in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat. They were provided separate assistance and the livelihood kits they received through the DTI program, which we advocated for before and continue to support. We also supported 283 victims of past fires in Cagayan de Oro City by giving separate aid in addition to the emergency housing assistance received from the NHA through a program we pushed for so that they could buy materials like nails, roofing, and other necessities for home repairs. My office also provided immediate help to victims of recent fires, such as 50 families in Baseco, Manila City, and 11 families in Brgy. Alabang, Muntinlupa City. No one is exempt from facing life’s hardships. However, our OFWs have shown us how resilient Filipinos can be. Let us learn from them and, more importantly, do our part in uplifting their lives by advocating for their welfare, promoting their rights, protecting their families, and providing the genuine public service they deserve. The post Advancing OFWs’ welfare, protecting Filipinos abroad appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Joy gift
Over the past two decades, Sodexo Benefits and Rewards Services has enabled rewarding experiences for over 4,000 corporate clients and their employees in the Philippines. This year, the company brings an extra sparkle to gift-giving with its first Christmas campaign carrying their new brand, Pluxee. Pluxee, a Sodexo company, ushers in the holiday season with a range of promotions to make it easier for corporate clients to upgrade their rewards and recognition efforts, and open up a world of opportunities for their recipients. Dubbed as “Magical ConneXions, the campaign aims to bring more joy to employees, partners, and consumers with a focus on convenient, relevant digital gifting solutions. “As Sodexo Benefits and Rewards Services transitions to Pluxee, clients can count on our heritage of expertise and global perspective on innovation to elevate employee experience and engagement. The wordplay of X in Magical ConneXions represents the importance of our relationships with clients, merchants and consumers in everything that we do,” said marketing director Sharon K. Velasco. The post Joy gift appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go assists displaced workers in Bohol
In a video message conveyed during his team's visit to Carmen and Batuan, Bohol, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go expressed his steadfast commitment to advocate for more pro-poor initiatives and bolster support measures, aiming for a more inclusive economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises. "Prayoridad ko ang pagsuporta sa pro-poor programs at dapat po ay sikapin ng gobyerno na walang magutom na Pilipino. 'Yan po ang pakiusap ko parati sa executive," said Go. "Kung merong isusulong na programa o batas, suportado ko po ito basta po makakatulong sa mahihirap at hindi mapunta sa korapsyon ang pera," he added. Go's team, in collaboration with Board Member Nathaniel Binlod, distributed shirts, snacks, and balls for basketball and volleyball to 548 displaced workers gathered at the Carmen Gym on Monday, 16 October. The recipients were also eligible to receive benefits from the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. “Patuloy tayong magbigay ng oportunidad at pag-asa sa mga manggagawang Pilipino na nawalan ng trabaho o kabuhayan dahil sa mga pagsubok na hinaharap natin. Sa pamamagitan ng ganitong mga programa, marami sa ating mga kababayan ang mabibigyan ng pagkakataon na magkaroon ng pansamantalang trabaho at kumita ng maayos para sa kanilang pamilya,” Go stressed. In his commitment to promoting inclusive economic recovery, Go has underscored the significance of safeguarding the welfare of all sectors, with particular attention to those residing in rural areas. He introduced Senate Bill No. (SBN) 420 which seeks to institutionalize a framework for offering temporary employment to eligible members of underprivileged households in rural regions. If enacted into law, the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP) would be established within DOLE. REAP's primary goal is to furnish temporary job prospects to individuals who meet the criteria of being economically disadvantaged, impoverished, displaced, or seasonal workers. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, then offered medical assistance to the beneficiaries. He advised them to avail of the services of any of the two Malasakit Centers in the province where they may conveniently avail of medical assistance programs offered by the government. In Bohol, the Malasakit Centers are located at Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital (GCGMH) in Tagbilaran City and at Don Emilio Del Valle Memorial Hospital in Ubay. Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. Currently, there are 159 Malasakit Centers across the country, poised to assist with patients' medical expenses. The DOH reported that the Malasakit Center program has already provided aid to more than seven million Filipinos. “Sa mga pasyente, lapitan niyo lang ang Malasakit Center dahil para ‘to sa inyo. Kung may hospital bill kayo, nandiyan ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno na tutulong para mabayaran ito,” said Go. Go further highlighted that his advocacy to enhance the healthcare sector includes the establishment of Super Health Centers at strategic locations nationwide. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds have been allocated under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program of DOH for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. In Bohol, necessary funds have been allocated to construct Super Health Centers in Buenavista, Candijay, Dauis, Sagbayan, Talibon, Antequera, Balilihan, Bien Unido, Carmen, Panglao, Tagbilaran City, and Ubay. Super Health Centers are designed to focus on primary care, consultation, and early detection, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country, especially in grassroots communities. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, he also supported several projects in Bohol, such as the construction of multipurpose buildings in Alicia, Anda, Balilihan, Batuan, Buenavista, Danao, Dimiao, Duero, Garcia Hernandez, Guindulman, Loay, Loon, and Valencia; improvement of evacuation centers in Panglao, Anda, Balilihan, Carmen, Corella, Garcia-Hernandez and Valencia; installation of a water system in President Carlos P. Garcia; construction of the municipal slaughterhouse in Inabanga; and the acquisition and installation of solar-powered street lights in Getafe. Go, also principally sponsored the passage of RA 11883 which converts GCGMH to Governor Celestino Gallares Multi-Specialty Medical Complex. The post Bong Go assists displaced workers in Bohol appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
HCPTI to ‘make Subic port push NorthPhil economy to new highs’
The development and digitalization of the Subic port can help the economy of North Philippines (NorthPhil) and the rest of the country reach new highs. This projection came from economist and teacher Ronilo Balbieran of the University of Asia and the Pacific, citing the vast expanse and strategic location of NorthPhil’s constituent regions north of Metro Manila. Balbieran said Central Luzon, Cagayan Valley, Ilocandia and the Cordilleras could gain unprecedented economic growth from the Subic Port’s development into a truly world-class international gateway vis-a-vis a similarly ongoing modernization of the Clark Freeport Zone, creating a logistical superhighway and growth corridor, whose benefits would spill over to the rest of the archipelago. Poised to modernize the Subic Port is Harbour Centre Port Terminal Inc. (HCPTI), making its operation fully digitalized and serve as the centerpiece and crowning jewel of the entire Freeport zone. The HCPTI’s development plan envisions the Subic Port as the main draw in the marketing of Subic as an investment destination, the facility being a supposedly world-class international gateway and a catalyst of global trade and commerce. Underscoring the significance of distance in logistics, particularly involving marine freight, Balbieran said the Subic port would highlight the strategic location of NorthPhil in relation to six of the countries in the ASEAN and most of those in the Pacific Rim, including Central America. Balbieran also echoed the “sales pitch” of the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board hailing NorthPhil as an undisrupted land mass of diverse nature, culture and adventure, featuring a wealth of resources of four large regions between the West Philippine Sea and the Pacific, or from ridge to reef and from coast to coast. “Those regions account for 18 percent of the country’s total GDP (Gross Domestic Product), adding P3.9 trillion to the national economy just for 2022. And in the last two years, these (regional economies) have grown faster than Metro Manila and the entire nation,” Balbieran explained. “With larger investments in expansion and digitalization, the Subic port can further ignite domestic and international trade to and from Luzon, which will expand the economy of NorthPhil even faster.” NorthPhil comprises 84,526 square kilometers, accounting for 28.2 percent of the country’s entire 300,000 sqkm. NorthPhil’s total land mass alone is equivalent to 76.9 percent of Luzon’s 109,965 square kilometers and 87 percent of Mindanao’s 97,530 sqkm. At the same time, the HCPTI’s modernization of the Subic port is also “consistent and fully aligned” with the PBBM administration’s infrastructure and logistics development policy thrust. Balbieran said the National Logistics Strategy of the Department of Trade and Industry included both public and private investments in Logistics 1 of the 6 pillars of improving the country’s logistics efficiency. “The Strategy emphasizes massive investments in ports nationwide, as more than 90 percent of goods pass through the ports,” Balbieran said of what was revealed by the DTI at the recent conference of the Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines. The DTI’s National Logistics Strategy is also expected to incorporate or be seamlessly integrated with those of the departments of Agriculture, Transportation, Public Works and Highways, and Interior and Local Government as part of another plan to develop a food logistics chain, a cold chain industry, port infrastructure, and farm-to-market roads, thus ensuring affordable availability of food to consumers in real time by reducing logistics cost through investments in appropriate infrastructure and digital technologies. “Thus, the ‘expansion and digitalization of the Subic Port’ by the HCPTI is consistent with the National Logistics Strategy and Food Logistics Plan of the DTI, both getting the nod of President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' R. Marcos Jr. recently,” Balbieran said. “Specifically, though, HCPTI’s modernization of the Subic port will help bring down logistics costs, not just for the businessmen in Northern Luzon, but also for (those in) the rest of the Philippines who will use such facility to trade internationally.” Balbieran said both the DTI and the World Bank had described the Philippines’ logistics cost as “one of the highest” in Southeast Asia at more than 20 percent of sales, compared with Thailand’s only 11 percent. The post HCPTI to ‘make Subic port push NorthPhil economy to new highs’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PEZA chief lures potential Rotarian investors with ecozone perks
Members — particularly those in such business enterprises as manufacturing — of the Rotary Club of Manila, Asia’s oldest and biggest Rotary organization, were personally enticed by Philippine Economic Zone Authority director-general Tereso Panga of the benefits, particularly tax perks if they expand operations in the country or poured in investments in the ecozone. Panga, who served as guest speaker at RC Manila’s 14th General Membership Meeting at the Manila Polo Club, Makati City, on 5 October 2023, relayed to the prospective ecozone investors the various fiscal and non-fiscal Incentives offered by PEZA. He said the investment promotion agency offers income tax holidays or ITH of four to seven years depending on the industry tier and location, once onboard PEZA-run ecozones. For the National Capital Region, locators are entitled to four years of ITH for those that are in Tier 1; five years of ITH for Tier 2, and six years for those belonging to Tier 3. For locators in Metropolitan areas or areas contiguous and adjacent to NCR, a five-year ITH is given to Tier 1; six years for Tier 2, and seven years for Tier 3. “A five percent Special Corporate Income Tax holiday is also provided for 10 years for export-oriented projects, while enhanced deductions for five years are given to locators involved in domestic-oriented project activities,” Panga said. Other notable benefits awaiting interested PEZA locators include Customs duty exemption on importation of capital equipment, raw materials, spare parts, or accessories directly and exclusively used in the registered project/activity for a maximum period of 17 years unless otherwise extended under the Strategic Investment Priority Plan of the Philippine government; domestic sales allowance of up to 30 percent of total sales for export-oriented companies; value-added tax exemption on importation and VAT-zero rating on local purchases of goods and services directly and exclusively used in the registered project or activity for a maximum period of 17 years, unless otherwise extended under the SIPP; and exemption from payment of national and local government taxes and fees for the period of availment of the 5 percent special corporate income tax incentive Also, PEZA locators are entitled to employ foreign nationals; can enjoy long-term land leases of up to 75 years, and are entitled to the PEZA 2-year special non-immigrant visa issued to expatriates and their dependents as well as foreign workers. [caption id="attachment_194752" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Tereso O. Panga[/caption] PEZA performance Panga earlier reported that the investment promotion agency had reaped an overwhelming 114 percent increase in investments in the second quarter of the year, following the approval of 61 new and expansion projects for the period of April to June 2022. PEZA records showed that total investments are expected to bring in a total of P14.347 billion, 114.93 percent higher than the P6.675 billion approved investments for the second quarter of 2022. Of the 61 approved new and expansion projects, 16 are for the Information Technology industry, 15 for export/manufacturing, 13 for facilities, 13 for ecozone development, and two for IT Facilities and Logistics. Meanwhile, expected jobs to be created by those projects total 11,186, which is 29.06 percent higher compared to the 8,667 projected jobs in the 2nd quarter of 2022. For the January to June period of 2023, a total of 90 new and expansion projects have been approved and are expected to bring in P22.488 billion in investments, $747.093 million in exports, and 14,354 jobs. Japan remains PEZA’s top country investor in the first half with P8.007 billion in investments followed by Singapore with P2.169 billion. Also, Panga said that Japan topped the countries with the highest approved foreign investments at 27.34 percent, followed by Filipino companies at 23.19 percent, and American companies in the third spot at 14.82 percent. “PEZA accounted for 60.5 percent of the total foreign investment commitments in Q2 2023 with P35.75 billion,” he told the Rotary Club of Manila members. From 1995 to 2022, PEZA’s total dividends turned in to the National Treasury was a total of P26,889,567,738.07. Ecozones on the rise To date, Panga said PEZA hosts 422 ecozones and 4,352 locator companies/projects throughout the country. Of said number of ecozones, 299 are dedicated to IT Parks and Centers, 79 to manufacturing firms, 24 to agro-industrial parks, 17 are to tourism and three are to medical tourism ventures. Based on the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has projected that “the creation of ecozones will…maximize investments and promote industrial dispersion, especially outside metropolitan areas. Further, the ecozones will be integrated into the local economy by relaxing the requirements, facilitating the free flow of parts, components, and other inputs, and increasing open trade between zone locators and firms outside the zones.” In the coming years, various ecozones will be sprouting, while the ecozones that have already been officially proclaimed by the Office of the President include Robinsons Cyberpark Bacolod, Lima Technology Center (Expansion), Hermosa Ecozone Industrial Park (Expansion), Philtai Central Luzon Industrial Park, Felcris Centrale IT Park, ECCO 4 Building, Lopue’s Mandalagan IT Center, Marina Town Dumaguete, Naga City Industrial Park and Kamanga Agro-Industrial Economic Zone (Expansion), altogether with investments totaling P3.418 billion. Ecozones pending approval are MetroCas Industrial Estates-Special Economic Zone, Suyo Economic Zone and the expansions of Kamanga Agro-Industrial Economic Zone and Lima Technology Center, with a total investment amount of P773.962 million. As of September 2023, the governing board of PEZA has approved big-ticket investments with a total committed investment of P193.200 billion, and these are the First Pangasinan Property Development Corp., Raedang International Builders and Development Corp., Green Energy with Torrefaction Technology Inc., Dyson Electronics PTE, Ltd. Philippine Branch, Sunpower Philippines Manufacturing Ltd., Isla Import Terminals Inc., MJ Landtrade Development Corp., YCO Cloud Malvar Inc., Savya Land Development Corporation, RLGB Land Corporation, Robinsons Land Corporation, TDK Philippines, P. Imes Corp., Best-one Ever Luck Realty Corp., Knowles Electronics (Phil) Corporation, WIPRO Phils. Inc., Glensworth Development Inc., ACI Inc., Megaworld Corporation and Kyungshin Pampanga Philippines Inc. Currently, Panga said PEZA is focused on seven priority sectors, that is, advanced manufacturing, extractives (green ores processing), agriculture and blue industries, IT services and frontier technologies, eco-industrial park development (renewable energy and alternative energy, clean water and wastewater treatment, circular economy, sustainable development goals, green buildings, smart systems integration), Science, Technology and Innovation and the integration of small and medium enterprises into the ecozone value chain. Cannot be done alone by PEZA Panga, in conclusion during his speech at the Rotary Club of Manila meeting remarked that attracting foreign direct investments cannot be done by PEZA alone or by any other investment promotion agency left to its own devices. He emphasized that what is needed to make things work is a whole government, industry and society approach to lessen the cost and improve ease of doing business in the country. “Through our collaborations and strategic alliances, PEZA, together with the Rotary Club of Manila, other ecozone industries, and stakeholders, will strive for success in attaining our country’s goals and objectives, and continue to push for eco-zoning the Philippines towards inclusive and sustainable development,” Panga said. The post PEZA chief lures potential Rotarian investors with ecozone perks appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Over 13K delivery riders now have Pag-IBIG
In a span of only three months after Pag-IBIG Fund entered partnerships with the country’s top transport networks to provide better access to its membership, 13,128 delivery drivers and riders have registered as Pag-IBIG members and now enjoy the agency’s benefits. “We are very happy that a growing number of delivery riders are now part of the more than 15.6 million active members of Pag-IBIG Fund. As members of Pag-IBIG Fund, they now have secure savings and shall gain access to our affordable home loans. This is in line with our efforts to provide inclusive housing to all Filipino workers under the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing or 4PH Program of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.,” said Secretary Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar, who leads the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees. Earlier this year, Pag-IBIG Fund partnered with transport network and app-based courier companies Angkas, Foodpanda, Grab, Lalamove and Pick-A-Roo. With the partnerships, delivery riders are provided better access to Pag-IBIG Fund membership to allow them to enjoy the agency’s benefits that include its Regular and MP2 Savings, short-term cash loans, affordable home loans and the Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card Plus. Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta, meanwhile, expects that the number of delivery riders who shall become Pag-IBIG Fund members will continue to rise, especially with the agency’s ongoing Pag-IBIG Asenso Rider Raffle Promo, a special raffle promo for delivery riders. “We remain committed to our mandate of bringing the benefits of Pag-IBIG Fund membership to more Filipino workers. This includes our delivery riders, whose service have become vital in our daily lives. That is why in addition to bringing them better access to Pag-IBIG Fund membership, we are also providing our delivery riders the opportunity to win special prizes to help them with their livelihood with the Pag-IBIG Asenso Rider Raffle Promo. All these are among the many ways how we bring our Lingkod Pag-IBIG Brand of Service -- "Tapat na Serbisyo, Mula sa Puso" -- to our members,” Acosta added. The post Over 13K delivery riders now have Pag-IBIG appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SBG rallies support for Filipino athletes in 19th Asian Games
Senator Bong Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, recently expressed his full support for Filipino athletes participating in the ongoing 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou City, China. "Suportahan natin ang mga kababayan nating sumasabak sa kasalukuyang 19th Asian Games sa Hangzhou City, China," he said in a statement upon arriving in China to show his personal support to the Philippine delegation. “Bilang chair ng Senate Committee on Sports, taus-puso kong pinupuri at pinasasalamatan ang mga manlalaro nating ibinibigay ang lahat para itaas ang bandera ng Pilipinas sa ginaganap na kompetisyon. Manalo man o matalo, ang importante ay magkaisa tayo para sa ating mga atletang Pilipino!” added the senator. "Our unity is the best form of moral support to inspire our competing athletes to give their best. Let us all rally behind them as they continue to bring glory to our country. Laban Pilipinas! Ipakita natin ang puso ng Pilipino na lumalaban hanggang dulo!" he said. As of 2 October, the Philippines has won one gold, one silver, and eight bronze medals at the Games so far. The country's lone gold medal was won by Ernest John Obiena in Athletics, specifically in the men's pole vault event. Arnel Mandal added a silver medal to the tally in the men's 56kg wushu competition. The bronze medalists include Patrick King Perez in Taekwondo's men's individual poomsae, Jones Llabres Inso in Wushu's men's taijiquan/taijijian all-around, Gideon Fred Padua in wushu's men's 60kg, and Clemente Tabugara Jr in wushu's men's 65kg. In Tennis, Alexandra Eala secured a bronze in Women's singles and another bronze in Mixed doubles alongside Francis Casey Alcantara. Eleven Ando also captured bronze in the women's weightlifting 64kg division. Rounding out the bronze medalists is Patrick Bren Coo in Cycling BMX racing for Men. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has strongly advocated for increased funding for sports programs under the Philippine Sports Commission, particularly in support of athletes competing in international competitions this year. "During the budget deliberation last year, ang ipinasa po na budget ng PSC more or less about P200 million. Ako po mismo sa Senado bilang inyong chairman po ng Committee on Sports and as vice chair ng Committee on Finance, isinulong ko talaga na madagdagan po ng P1 billion po ang pondo ng Philippine Sports Commission," he said. This move secured financial support for athletes participating in international competitions, including the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia and the current Asian Games in China. He disclosed an allocation of P50 million through the PSC for the Asian Games, along with P30 million specifically for Asian para-games. To promote greater inclusivity and equality in sports, Go also proposed Senate Bill No. 2116, which aims to amend Republic Act No. 10699, also known as the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act. The bill seeks to provide enhanced financial incentives and benefits for para-athletes who represent the Philippines in international competitions. He emphasized the need for increased incentives for para-athletes, stating, "Sana po’y ma-increase naman rin po ang kanilang incentives na natatanggap dahil ‘yung honor po na dala nila sa ating bayan, pareho naman po ‘yong gold, silver, bronze at pinaghirapan rin po nila." In line with his advocacy for grassroots sports development, Go also championed the National Academy of Sports, a fully operational institution located in New Clark City in Tarlac which was enacted into law that he authored and co-sponsored. Go is also prioritizing the institutionalization of the Philippine National Games as a platform to scout and recruit athletes for the national pool. He filed SBN 423, or the proposed PNG Act, which seeks to create a nationwide platform for athletes, particularly the youth, to display their abilities. The Asian Games is being held from 23 September to 8 October. The event was originally scheduled for 2022 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The post SBG rallies support for Filipino athletes in 19th Asian Games appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Prioritizing inclusive healthcare for Filipinos
Providing inclusive healthcare for all Filipinos should always remain a priority. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, my legislative agenda is to ensure that those with less in life are given more benefits and attention from the government, especially regarding healthcare. My constant appeal to health officials is to ensure all Filipinos in need get medical care regardless of their geographic and economic situation. This is precisely the sentiment I wanted to impart when the Commission on Appointments took up the appointment of Department of Health Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa. The health department has my full support, so I am happy to note that Secretary Herbosa committed his support for the continuing implementation of the Malasakit Centers program and other key public health initiatives. As principal sponsor and author of Republic Act 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, it is fulfilling to know that the program is instrumental in providing medical assistance to over seven million indigent Filipinos through the 159 currently operational Malasakit Centers nationwide. Prioritizing the establishment of Super Health Centers in strategic areas in the country will also help make healthcare more inclusive for Filipinos. With the support of my colleagues in both houses of Congress, we are looking at more than 600 Super Health Centers to be built nationwide. These centers will provide primary healthcare and medical consultations, and help promote early detection of illnesses, which will decongest hospitals in the long term. My advocacy for inclusive healthcare has been strengthened with the enactment of RA 11959, or the Regional Specialty Centers Act. This newly enacted law, which I principally sponsored as one of the authors, will establish specialized medical centers within existing DoH regional hospitals. It will help bring specialized medical services closer to every region and will, in effect, make the health department’s services more inclusive. Sufficient funds must be allocated for the Regional Specialty Centers for its effective implementation in the coming years. While we are doing everything to make healthcare more accessible to Filipinos, let us not forget our healthcare workers. I am appealing to DoH and our finance managers to make sure that the benefits due to our healthcare workers in accordance with prevailing laws are released efficiently and without further delays. Moreover, my regular engagement with communities in need continues to be part of my advocacy to promote inclusivity so that those with less can still get the best public services they need and deserve. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, I call upon every Filipino to rally behind our athletes competing in the Hangzhou Asian Games from 23 September to 8 October. Our athletes have trained tirelessly, sacrificing time, effort, and personal comforts to represent our nation on this grand stage. They carry not just their personal ambitions but the pride and hopes of an entire country. Let us show them that they are not alone in this journey. As your public servant, I assure fellow Filipinos that I will continue to push for inclusive public service delivery, particularly in healthcare and especially for the poor, to the best of my abilities in pursuit of social justice and development for all. The post Prioritizing inclusive healthcare for Filipinos appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Globe bankrolls P15-B expansion
Ayala-backed Globe Telecom Inc. has secured P15 billion in additional funding from Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company, a move that will strengthen the company’s financial capabilities to bankroll network improvements and expansion. In a report to the Philippine Stock Exchange, the company said it signed the term loan facilities on Monday. According to Globe, the proceeds will particularly finance Globe’s capital expenditures, debt refinancing, and/or general corporate requirements. Responding to the growing need to ramp up mobile data services amid a digital-savvy landscape, Globe has been also boosting its services to offer seamless and efficient services to users. Proceeds mostly for data network In the first half, the company invested P37.7 billion in capital expenditure, which was 25 percent lower than the similar period last year. It was also consistent with the company’s efforts to bring free cash flow back to more sustainable levels. The majority or about 90 percent of the capex spending was allocated to data network builds to meet the consumer’s escalating demand for data. As of June, Globe built 542 new cell sites and upgraded 5,087 mobile sites to LTE to meet the rising data demands of its customers. The company also deployed around 148,000 fiber-to-the-home lines, significantly lower than last year’s rollout to maximize the utilization of its existing fiber inventory. Relatedly, Globe continues to deploy 5G wireless technology nationwide, firing up 356 new 5G sites across the Philippines, increasing its 5G outdoor coverage to 97.44 percent of the National Capital Region and 91 percent of key cities in Visayas and Mindanao. The post Globe bankrolls P15-B expansion appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NEDA supports permanent ban on POGOs
The National Economic and Development Authority has expressed its support for a permanent ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators in the country, citing the high social cost of these businesses. During the Malacañang Press Briefing on Thursday, NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said that the cost of POGOs to society, including the alleged crimes and related issues associated with them, outweigh the benefits they bring in terms of revenue and economic impact. "We don't think that the benefits in terms of the revenues generated and the additional --- and the impact and the economy are worth the cost," Balisacan said. He added that NEDA is encouraging "very legitimate investments, good investments, quality investments and those investments that will produce goods and services and not ones that promote negative externalities to society." Balisacan also said that NEDA is not marketing the Philippines as a destination for POGO businesses. "We have been moving around in many countries, cities attracting investments to the country, marketing our country as a good place to do business. We are not going around to attract business of this kind," Balisacan said. Balisacan expressed optimism that new investments can replace the revenue lost from the closure of POGOs. "Yeah, I think we do. Look at Thailand. Look at Indonesia. All these other countries around us don't depend on those kinds of businesses," he said. Balisacan clarified that his position on POGOs is not necessarily that of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., but that it is NEDA's. "No, this is our position that we expressed (that)," he said. He added that he would personally recommend to the President to ban POGO in their next NEDA Board meeting soon. Earlier this week, ten Senators called for the total closure of POGOs within three months due to a lack of economic contribution. A 120-page report on Tuesday mentioned that the Philippine economy will continue to thrive even without POGOs. The Senate Committee on Ways and Means obtained approximately ten signatures, achieving a majority, and Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, a prominent critic of POGOs, led the endorsement of the report. “The impact (of POGOs) on our economy is not that big if they leave. We have seen that they contribute less than 1 percent (of our gross domestic product),” Gatchalian said. The post NEDA supports permanent ban on POGOs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go joins Asian Games send-off; renews advocacy for athletes’ welfare
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go recognized athletes, coaches, and sports officials for their contributions to Philippine sports and their crucial roles in representing the nation on the international stage, during the send-off ceremony on Monday, 18 September, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, for Filipino participants in the 19th Asian Games and 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. “Today, we gather here not only to celebrate the excellence of our athletes but also to bid them the best of luck as they embark on a journey to represent our great nation at the 19th Asian Games and 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China," said Go. Go took the opportunity to shed light on his proposed Senate Bill No. 2116, which aims to amend Republic Act No. 10699, also known as the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act. "This bill which I authored carries the potential to bring about positive change in the lives of our athletes, particularly our para-athletes," he said. Go emphasized the need to increase the incentives for para-athletes, stating, "Sana po’y ma-increase naman rin po ang kanilang incentives na natatanggap dahil ‘yung honor po na dala nila sa ating bayan, pareho naman po ‘yong gold, silver, bronze at pinaghirapan rin po nila." The proposed measures seek to upgrade the incentives for para-athletes. This bill intends to provide equal opportunities and recognition to all athletes, thereby promoting inclusivity and diversity in sports. "The heart of this legislation is inclusivity and equality. It aims to elevate or increase the incentives for our para-athletes," he mentioned. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance said he continues to advocate for additional budget for sports programs under the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC). "During the budget deliberation last year, ang ipinasa po na budget ng PSC more or less about P200 million. Ako po mismo sa Senado bilang inyong chairman po ng Committee on Sports and as vice chair ng Committee on Finance, isinulong ko talaga na madagdagan po ng P1 billion po ang pondo ng Philippine Sports Commission," he said. He revealed that during the budget deliberations last year, he sponsored and successfully secured financial support for athletes participating in international competitions such as the 2023 Southeast Asian Games, which took place in Cambodia, and the forthcoming Asian Games in China. He also disclosed the allocation of P50 million through the PSC for the Asian Games, along with P30 million specifically for Asian para-games. Go also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector in achieving sports excellence. "’Pag nagsama ang gobyerno at pribadong sektor, walang imposible.” Meanwhile, in his speech, the senator also touched on the state of sports facilities in the country, emphasizing the need for comfortable training grounds for athletes. "Ako, sa abot ng aking makakaya ay tutulong po ako sa ating mga sports program ng ating bansa," he assured. In line with his focus on grassroots sports development, Go also spoke about the National Academy of Sports (NAS), a fully operational institution located in New Clark City in Tarlac. "Ngayon po pwede na pong mag-aral at the same time mag-training, training at the same time mag-aral diyan po sa National Academy of Sports," he said. This initiative aims to ensure that athletes do not have to sacrifice their education for their sports careers. Former president Rodrigo Duterte signed RA 11470 in June 2020, which provides for the establishment of the NAS System and its main campus. Go was an author and co-sponsor of the measure. Go is also prioritizing the institutionalization of the Philippine National Games (PNG) as a platform to scout and recruit athletes for the national pool. He filed SBN 423, or the proposed PNG Act, which seeks to create a nationwide platform for athletes, particularly the youth, to display their abilities. During the ambush interview, Go also emphasized the importance of grassroots programs in encouraging youth to engage in sports and lead a healthy lifestyle. "Grassroots program, it's one way na ma-e-engganyo natin ang ating mga kabataan to get into sports, stay away from drugs, and to keep us healthy and fit," he said. He further elaborated on the connection between sports and health, saying, "Malaking bagay na fit tayo. Ang importante rin sa akin bilang chairman ng Senate Committee on Health, dalawa po 'yan. Importante sa akin ang sports at health. Magka-connect ang dalawang ito dahil para sa akin, kapag fit ka, healthy ka. Pangalagaan po natin ang kalusugan ng bawat isa. Katumbas ng kalusugan ay buhay ng bawat Pilipino." Toward the end of his speech, Go expressed his gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his unwavering support for Filipino athletes. "Salamat po mga athletes. And of course, gusto ko rin pong pasalamatan ang suporta po sa atin ng ating mahal na Pangulong Bongbong Marcos sa suporta niya sa SEA Games, sa Asian Games, at sa lahat pa po ng future competition," he said. Go likewise extended his thanks to PSC Chairman Dickie Bachmann, Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham Tolentino, and the Philippine Paralympic Committee President Michael Barredo for their ongoing support and contribution to the athletic community. He likewise thanked the athletes, para-athletes, and coaches for their dedication and sacrifices in training. "Athletes, para-athletes, coaches salamat po sa inyong lahat, sa inyong sakripisyo sa pagte-training. Alam kong ito na po ‘yung panahon na inaantay natin," Go said. As the athletes prepare for their journey to Hangzhou, China, Go assured them of his full support. "To our athletes, I know that we stand with you every step of the way. We believe in your potential, and we are confident that you will make our country proud on the international stage," he concluded. The upcoming Asian Games will be held in Hangzhou, China, from September 23 to October 8. The event was originally scheduled for 2022 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. See more photos here: The post Bong Go joins Asian Games send-off; renews advocacy for athletes’ welfare appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR spotlights medicinal forest tree research at ASEAN conference
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau on Sunday emphasized the importance of advancing research on medicinal plants and forest trees, underlining their crucial role in increasing awareness of their potential benefits and optimizing their use. This message was conveyed at the conclusion of the ASEAN Conference on Medicinal Forest Trees on 7 September in Pampanga, gathering 117 participants from across Southeast Asia. ERDB Director Maria Lourdes G. Ferrer urged all participants to continue championing research, innovation, and responsible management of the country’s natural resources, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and information sharing to bring about transformative change. “Through your rigorous research, innovative thinking, and unwavering commitment to responsible stewardship of our natural resources, we have unearthed possibilities that will undoubtedly expand beyond the limits of current knowledge,” Ferrer said. Ferrer noted that the conference discussions not only deepened understanding but also promoted collaboration for the advancement of medicinal non-timber forest species. Besides the inadequate research support, the conference acknowledged the shortage of published literature on medicinal forest trees. It also emphasized the substantial threats posed by forest degradation and habitat loss to vital medicinal forest tree species. Furthermore, there is a pressing need for more "ethnobotanical" and pharmacological research on medicinal plants and forest trees. The ERDB recommended integrating these issues into the DENR's Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) Agenda, while also continuing efforts to collect data on medicinal forest trees and conducting ongoing ethnobotanical and pharmacological research. To enhance science communication, there will be an improved information and education campaign on the medicinal value of forest trees, along with increased promotion of RDE on medicinal forest trees. The publication of research results will continue to raise awareness and encourage the use of these valuable resources. “Together, we can fully realize the medicinal potential of our forest trees, creating a brighter and healthier future,” Ferrer concluded. The post DENR spotlights medicinal forest tree research at ASEAN conference appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Return separation pay, viral ex-cop told
Brig. Gen. Niño David Rabaya, director of the Philippine National Police-Retirement and Benefits Administration Service, demanded from viral road rage ex-cop Wilfredo Gonzales the return of the money he received despite his dismissal from the police service. Gonzales was dismissed for grave misconduct in 2018, two years after he retired upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56 where he got his separation pay. His dismissal which stemmed from a gun-toting incident he was involved in in 2006 led to the forfeiture of his benefits retroactively. In a press conference in Camp Crame on Monday, Rabaya, said Gonzales is required to bring back to the PNP around P588,000 sending him letters demanding the return of the money, since 2019 but they have yet to get any response from him. “It’s basically his terminal leave or leave credits as he also received ‘three’ year lump sum pension starting 2016 to 2019 but when the PRBS was able to receive the dismissal order, his monthly pension which was supposed to start in 2019 was not anymore activated. So basically he is not anymore receiving pension from us,” Rabaya told reporters. “As a matter of procedure, we are already preparing the demand letter for patrolman Gonzales to return the money. We will be taking civil action against him. We have already referred this to our legal then civil action will be taken against him if he refuses to return the amount,” he stressed. The QC People’s Law Enforcement Board started the conduct of a thorough investigation of the incident upon the order of Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte. The probe aims to identify the lapses committed by the police during the settlement of the case. Gonzales is currently in hot water after he was involved in a viral altercation with a cyclist in Quezon City on 28 August. He hit the cyclist on his head and even pulled out and cocked his gun. Gonzales said they had already settled the matter in a police station. It was reported that the cyclist paid Gonzales P500 for the damages to his vehicle during the settlement. Gonzales is now facing charges for alarm and scandal filed by the Quezon City Police District. The PNP Firearms and Explosives Office also revoked the License to Own and Possess Firearm, Firearm Registration and Permit to Carry Firearms Outside Residence of Gonzales. The Land Transportation Office also issued a 90-day preventive suspension on Gonzales’ driver’s license pending the conduct of an investigation on the matter. The post Return separation pay, viral ex-cop told appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Digitizing a must — Concepcion
Honing and making micro, small and medium enterprises fully engrossed with digitization is now a must for every country in the ASEAN Region to fully realize the expanding opportunities presented by digital transformation, according to ASEAN-Business Advisory Council Philippines chairperson Joey Concepcion. “The power of digitalization is there; we just have to use it. It’s time that we really focus on the objective of greater prosperity, especially for those at the bottom of the pyramid, using whatever tools we have,” Concepcion said during a panel discussion on ASEAN’s Digital Powerhouse at the Nexus of Connectivity and Transformation in Jakarta, Indonesia on Sunday. “We must enable MSMEs to use digitalization to their advantage. Digital growth is seen to boost cross-border e-commerce by providing MSMEs with access to new markets and is hoped to promote financial inclusion to underserved populations,” he added. Further, Concepcion noted that although the rapid growth of digital adoption in the ASEAN bodes well for the region’s economies, its growth must be inclusive, with MSMEs being crucial to sustainable growth, to fully realize the expanding opportunities presented by digital transformation. “All of these tools are important to uplift the lives of our people. That’s why we are here: how do we solve big problems, especially for those who are at the bottom of the pyramid,” he said, pointing out that four of the 10 countries in the ASEAN have nearly a fifth of their populations still living in poverty. Region’s biggest tech players The session gathered some of the region’s biggest technology players, as well as key stakeholders from leading multinational companies, global financial institutions, and government organizations. The session delved into the development of strategic policies — including financial technology, e-trade, and cross-border trade facilitation. “The power of digital has to be used. The crisis pushed people to use these tools and this is one of the reasons we in the ASEAN BAC Philippines proposed to sign an MoU with each ASEAN country to focus on sectors that will bring development, specifically agriculture and MSMEs,” he said. He also pointed out that digitalization will stand to benefit even the one-man businesses — also known as nanopreneurs — who now have a better chance at succeeding because they have access to marketing tools and digital payment solutions. “We are the big brothers. Unless we embrace the MSMEs in our value chain this is going to take a long time. That is our mission as ASEAN BAC heads, to see to it that greater prosperity is achieved,” he said. Private sector feedback The ASEAN BAC was organized to provide private sector feedback and guidance to boost ASEAN’s efforts towards economic integration. It was said in the discussion that ASEAN has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing Internet market, with a 40 percent annual growth in the value of e-commerce between 2016 and 2021. Further, it is set to become the world’s fastest-growing digital market driven by a growing consumer market and the rapid adoption of social commerce platforms by its population. “This growth must be inclusive to unlock the benefits. It must be used to enable MSMEs,” he said. Phl case cited Concepcion cited the Philippines case as an example of how digital technology has helped MSMEs compete with big corporations and gave birth to a thriving digital economy that was further hastened by the pandemic lockdowns. Aside from Concepcion, other speakers in the session were Sam Myers, deputy trade commissioner for Asia Pacific (Southeast Asia) at the UK Department for Business and Trade; Haslina Taib, CEO of Dynamic Technologies; Yuem Kuan Moon, CEO of Singtel; and Kok Ping Soon, CEO of Singapore Business Federation. Bank of Indonesia Governor Dr. Perry Warijjyo, Temasek Holdings CEO Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara; and Japan External Trade Organization Chairman Ishiguro Norihiko delivered keynote remarks, while ASEAN-BAC Indonesia Policy Manager for Digital Transformation Yohanes Lukiman gave a policy presentation. The post Digitizing a must — Concepcion appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
FIBA World Cup experience: Springboard to greater heights
Congratulations are in order for the whole Gilas Pilipinas Team for their monumental win versus China (96-75), ending our FIBA World Cup 2023 campaign on a hopeful note. I have always believed in the capabilities of our athletes who have shown their mettle in international sports competitions. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am rallying all Filipinos to support our long-term roadmap to elevate the standing of our athletes in the global arena in all sporting events. Filipinos have excelled in the global stage not just in basketball, billiards, or boxing which are relatively the more popular sports in the country. Take for example Carlos Yulo in gymnastics, EJ Obiena in pole vaulting, Hidilyn Diaz in weightlifting, the late Lydia de Vega in track and field, and, of course, the Filipinas Football team who made us proud during the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup. Our very own Alex Eala is also a rising star in the world of tennis. We have many talented athletes, and we should support them in their quest to give honor to the country. However, success in any sporting event does not come easily. Any athlete will tell you that sports entails discipline, many hours of hard work, and even years of sacrifices. Hence, our efforts to strengthen our chances on the global stage must start at the grassroots level. This is the rationale behind RA 11470 or the National Academy of Sports or NAS law, which I authored and co-sponsored, and signed into law by former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2020. The NAS System will provide scholarships to qualified student-athletes from all regions and will allow them to balance academics and sports training by utilizing the state-of-the-art facilities at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. I am also advocating the approval of Senate Bill No. 423 or the Philippine National Games or PNG Act, to institutionalize the conduct of the PNG every two years as this will allow us to discover those with athletic potential at the grassroots level. We have talented athletes, but the government must invest in providing them with opportunities to compete if we want to produce champions on both the national and international stages. I am pushing for SBN 2116, which will amend Section 8 of RA 10699 or the “National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act.” This will increase the incentives for para-athletes who will win medals in international competitions and make our approach more inclusive to all athletes regardless of their physical limitations. Our efforts to achieve victory in sports must reflect the diversity of our country. The government, together with the private sector and other stakeholders, must consistently provide all the support that our teams need to compete at the global level. Our focus must be on creating opportunities for all aspiring athletes, regardless of geographic or economic background, to excel in their chosen fields. Hence, we should bring our sports development programs closer to those who have the potentials and aspirations to represent our country and bring pride to every Filipino. More importantly, sports is not only a physical game but a means to uplift lives, keep our youth away from vices like illegal drugs, and strengthen camaraderie in our communities. Let us elevate sports as a viable tool in harnessing our citizens into disciplined, productive and patriotic individuals reflective of our Filipino pride. In the same way that we unite to support our athletes, let us also unite to support fellow Filipinos in need. That is why I have continued to engage with various sectors of society to listen to their concerns and help provide solutions to their daily struggles. Filipinos inherently have a “never say die” attitude, especially in sports which is reflective of our resilience as a society. But aside from this commendable trait, our resilience also stems from our inherent compassion for each other. Our “Tapang at Malasakit” must continue so that together, we can uplift the lives of Filipinos. As a Senator and public servant, I remain steadfast in supporting our athletes to reach greater heights while also exerting efforts to help bring government programs and services closer to those in need to provide them with opportunities for a better life. The post FIBA World Cup experience: Springboard to greater heights appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BARMM seeks Sulu ecozone
JOLO, Sulu Province — The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is pushing to establish an agro-economic zone in this province aim to propel economic growth which will generate employment and investments for the province. Governor Abdusakur Tan on Monday expressed appreciation and enthusiasm for the promising outcome the economic zone could bring to the development of the province. “That’s good, for us, we propose to put it in the town of Maimbung or Talipao and at the same time, if a seaport is going to be built, it should be deep there,” Tan said. Tan believes that the establishment of agro-economic zones in the province would offer several benefits including the generation of employment, revenue generation, promotion of exports, and support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. He added that the establishment of an agro-economic zone in the province will enhance the quality of life of the people and their role as pivotal economic drivers for the province. The post BARMM seeks Sulu ecozone appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Clip OWWA’s wings
As the pandemic is over, the Commission on Audit should go into a more detailed scrutiny of the huge amount that the government allotted to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration totaling P17.36 billion in the Emergency Repatriation Fund or ERF. State auditors did not question the use of the ERF and even commended OWWA for the use of the fund in response to the coronavirus plague. As a result of the urgency of the situation and the provisions of the Bayanihan laws exempting purchases from the Government Procurement Reform Act, the CoA did not have the full accounting arsenal to look into the purchases. The huge amount involved and the previous experiences with the OWWA should require a double-check. According to the CoA 2022 report, of the P17,367,559,655.88 OWWA received for the ERF, P17,367,559,406.09 or 99.9999986 percent was utilized for accommodations, transportation, financial assistance, and other Covid-19 incidental expenses of repatriated overseas Filipino workers or OFWs. In several instances, OWWA even exceeded its budgeted ERF and had to draw from the succeeding year’s budget. CoA indicated that P2.3 billion was used to pay for expenses incurred in 2020 that were not covered by that year’s budget. The overshoot increased to P5.035 billion for 2021 since CoA said the expenses were not obligated and were paid through the 2022 budget. CoA, initially in the 2020 report that looked into 2019 transactions not covered by the Bayanihan law’s procurement law exemptions, questioned the purchase of hygiene kits and sanitary napkins totaling P822,420 from a construction store in Pasay City “which cannot be found in the address stated.” Upon further probe by the CoA, it was found that the supposed hardware store was fictitious and the address was that of a private residence. Then OWWA Administrator Hans Cacdac had a hard time explaining the purchase of the feminine kits from a hardware store, more so that it couldn’t be found at the address. CoA also found that the procured hygiene kits, which were not itemized, were outrageously priced at P160 each, while the sanitary napkins were priced at up to P35 per pad. Cacdac promised an internal investigation which was something that was lost in the swirl of the global emergency that erupted in early 2020. That was when the ERF was bolstered with allocations from the national budget and Bayanihan laws 1 and 2. The ERF was extensively used previously to repatriate OFWs from war zones. According to the CoA 2022 report, of the P17.37 billion ERF, P13.3 billion was used for hotel accommodations, P449 million for food, P3.6 billion for travel expenses, P9.7 million for subsidies, P5.5 million for supplies, P2.4 million for hospitalization, drugs and medicine, P15.1 million for cremation services, and P90,200 for other expenses. OWWA, in a long-winded acknowledgment of the initial CoA clearance of the use of the funds, was quick to give credit to its suppliers who, it said, “were a huge help to us in the government in extending help to all Filipinos.” It then concluded, without CoA’s express acknowledgment, that the ”payables in 2020 are legal.” Several of the items in the ERF, however, would have to be checked as returning workers during the pandemic did not benefit from the program as they had to pay through their noses the hotel bills and other myriad health processes during the quarantine period as the pandemic raged. No one could recall travel expenses being paid for by OWWA to bring those in distress home. Even the pernicious nasal tests had to come out of the pockets of the migrant workers, at an overprice, as some had to shell out P10,000 for a single test. Also, overspending the ERF budget for a year should be checked since OWWA collects billions of pesos yearly with its membership fee of $25 paid every two years by each OFW. The catch in the OWWA collections is that you’ll never know the privileges and benefits due a member unless you spend time researching it which the busy migrant workers don’t have. OWWA membership is mandatory as the fee is a required item on the departure slip of an OFW. Most overseas workers will attest that they never interacted with CoA unless it involved the payment of fees and, of course, making them go through the expensive quarantine process during the health emergency. There was a plan to abolish the OWWA since its functions overlap with agencies such as the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency and the Department of Labor and Employment. It is time to hold an earnest review of the abolition proposal. The post Clip OWWA’s wings appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»