How Baguio public hospital reinvented itself in time for a COVID-19 response
Baguio City was among the LGUs whose COVID-19 policy was considered effective during the monthslong lockdown. At the heart of its pandemic response was a hospital that was quick to adjust to the crisis—the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center......»»
Robredo cites gov’t data showing COVID-19 response is not working
Vice President and opposition leader Leni Robredo on Sunday pointed at government data to prove her claim that it’s doing something wrong in its response to the coronavirus pandemic. Vice-President Leni Robredo (OVP / Facebook / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN) “Iyong datos—at ang datos galing sa pamahalaan—iyong datos ang ating basehan kung bakit natin sinasabi na kung ano iyong ginagawa natin ngayon, hindi siya nagwo-work,” she said on her radio show. Robredo reiterated her call on the administration to reassess its policies and improve in areas where lapses have been committed following the request of frontline health workers to revive strict lockdowns in Metro Manila and its adjacent regions. The vice president said the medical community’s appeal for comprehensive strategy against COVID-19 is a valid request that should be seriously considered. “Iyong lahat na punto nila, halimbawa na lang sinasabi nila na ‘iyong ginagawa natin ngayon is not working.’ Iyon din iyong punto ko, eh. Na hindi working iyong ginagawa natin ngayon kasi pataas nga nang pataas iyong bilang,” she said. As of August 1, the Department of Health (DOH) reported 4,963 additional COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of coronavirus infections in the country to 98,232. “Ito nga 98,000, validated lang dahil iyong for validation pa, kung hindi ako nagkakamali, nasa mga 37,000, 38,000 pa. Ito iyong discrepancy. So kapag dinagdag mo pa iyon, talagang unimaginable na iyong numbers natin,” she said. Robredo also cited the data from tracing czar Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong that showed only four of over 600 local government units have contract tracing capability. For each positive COVID-19 case, only eight persons are being traced on the average instead of the standard of 37, she said.“Iyong ina-announce na so much number of contact tracers, na 52,000 yata—52,000 na iyong na-hire, pero ang sabi ng WHO, dapat ang ideal para sa atin 132,000 iyong ma-hire na contact tracers,” Robredo added.She said the Philippines is now conducting 30,000 tests for coronavirus per day, but she noted it took the government two months to meet its target daily testing capacity in May.The vice president said she was surprised with the “mass recovery adjustment” after the DOH reported a record-high in recoveries of COVID-19 patients at 38,075.Robredo asserted the DOH must inform the public before changing its data system. “Kung magpapalit ng definition, kung magpapalit ng protocols, baka mas maganda na ina-announce iyon sa tao bago makita iyong numero kasi talagang nagulat lahat. Tapos ang pinaka-mahirap, pagkatapos noong one-time-big-time na isang araw, the following day balik sa dati,” she said......»»
Solons to gov’t: Heed the plea of medical workers
Lawmakers expressed all-out support on Sunday (August 2) to the appeal made by Philippine College of Physicians and the Philippine Medical Associationto shift Mega Manila back to a 15-day enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), even as they sought a change in leadership in the Department of Health (DOH) and other agencies handling the country’s response against COVID-19. (JANSEN ROMERO / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN) Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman, Anakalusugan partylist Rep. Michael Defensor, Bayan Muna partylist Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate, and Quezon City 2nd District Rep. Precious Hipolito Castelo called on the government to heed the plea of the medical experts and frontliners for more stringent health protocols in critical areas. “While both the health and economic crisis wrought by the still ravaging COVID-19 pandemic must be both effectively addressed, the relief and recovery of the people’s health must be prioritized. Lives lost are forfeited forever but businesses lost can be redeemed,” Lagman said in a statement.“We must learn from the bitter lesson experienced by other countries like Japan which prematurely reopened economic, leisure and domestic travel activities only to be besieged later by a resurgence of the viral contagion,” he stressed. Defensor, chairperson of the House Committee on Public Accounts, said, “If our leading doctors are prescribing it, then as good patients, we are all for Mega Manila’s brief return to an ECQ.” “Our sense is, our public health system is on the verge of collapse, and the momentary return to an ECQ will buy everybody more time to gird for a longer battle against the coronavirus disease,” he said. He said once the government gives in to the appeal, the COVID-19 National Task Force should take that opportunity to fix the lack of hospital staff due to doctors, nurses and other personnel getting infected and still recovering, or undergoing routine seclusion after possible exposure; expand the bed capacities of makeshift hospitals and quarantine facilities; and improve case-finding and the isolation of suspected cases. Defensor said the government should also step up contact-tracing and quarantining; upgrade public transportation options and safety; strengthen workplace protection; build up enforcement of and public compliance with self-protective measures such as the wearing of face masks and face shields, handwashing as well as social and physical distancing; and increase financial and livelihood support to distressed households. Zarate said they are one with our frontliners in demanding a reprieve from the overwhelming cases of COVID-19, particularly in the National Capital Region. “Reverting back to ECQ or whatever level of lockdown is useless or will be for naught if the primary recommendation of frontliners like free mass testing, pro-active contact tracing, isolation and treatment will not be seriously implemented by the government,” he said in a statement. For her part, Castelo said, “Let us listen to them. They are the ones on the frontline. Indeed, after five months of fighting this pandemic, they are exhausted physically, emotionally and mentally.” She laments that several doctors and nurses have died and many others have fallen sick while battling COVID-19. “Our medical workers are asking for a short time to recuperate. Let us give it to them,” she said. In a radio interview, Surigao del Norte 2nd district Rep. Robert Ace Barbers said the government should strike a balance between the economy and health of the Filipinos, but it should be tilted somehow, in favor of health amid the appeal made by physicians to shift Mega Manila back to a 15-day ECQ. He asked the DOH to come up with “a system, a policy, or even perhaps a strategy” to reinforce the country’s health system by augmenting the medical force. In a separate statement, Assistant Minority Leader and ACT Teachers Representative France Castro said the Inter Agency Task Force for COVID-19 should be headed by medical experts instead of generals who have done nothing but to impose military solutions to combat a public health crisis. “Our frontliners are already pleading to the Duterte administration to implement a comprehensive medical plan to address the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. The government needs to listen and take concrete actions with the demands of our healthcare workers,” she said. “It is high time that medical experts lead in the fight against COVID-19 instead of military generals. Medical experts who will not twist data and try to sanitize the numbers. We need medical experts who use science and not allow an entire population to be used as guinea pigs in a failed response and inadequate policies for public health safety.”.....»»
Ilocos Sur micro-entreps get help from Bong Go
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go’s team, in coordination with Governor Jeremias “Jerry” Singson, Vigan City Mayor Jose Bonito Singson Jr., Caoayan Mayor Germelina Goulart and other local government officials, provided assistance to micro-business owners at the Vigan Conservation Complex and Caoayan municipal gymnasium in Ilocos Sur on Monday, 23 October. A total of 68 individuals received masks and snacks, while select recipients were given shoes, shirts and balls for basketball from Go’s team. Aside from the assistance from Go, the beneficiaries also qualified for the Department of Trade and Industry’s program that Go supported which provides livelihood kits to assist communities affected by crises in their recovery efforts. “Patuloy tayong sumusuporta sa mga programang pangkabuhayan lalo na yung mga makakatulong sa mga mahihirap na nahaharap sa krisis. Sa ating pakikipagtulungan, ang DTI ay nagbibigay ng mga negosyo kits sa mga kwalipikadong benepisyaryo at tinuturuan sila kung paano palalaguin ang kanilang mga negosyo para mapakinabangan ng pamilya ang kanilang kikitain. Nagbigay naman tayo ng karagdagang suporta sa mga benepisyaryo ng programang ito,” he explained in a video message. Also in attendance were DTI 1 Regional Director Grace Falgui-Baluyan and Provincial Director Charry Quodala. Go acknowledged how the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected businesses in the country. In response to this, Go is one of the authors and co-sponsors of Republic Act 11960, known as the One Town, One Product Philippines Act. This legislation serves to institutionalize the OTOP Philippines Program, a strategic initiative tailored to nurturing the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises throughout the country. The essence of the OTOP Program centers on the identification and promotion of distinctive products originating from various towns and municipalities. In doing so, it not only encourages entrepreneurship but also effectively harnesses local resources while preserving our rich cultural heritage. This approach facilitates increased visibility, market access, and enhanced competitiveness for micro-businesses, thereby making a substantial contribution to our country’s economic resilience. "Hindi lamang ito tungkol sa pag-angat ng MSMEs. Ito'y pagkakataon para sa bawat Pilipino, kahit saan man sila naroroon, na magtagumpay sa negosyo," he elaborated. "When communities take the lead in product development, we see more sustainable and culturally relevant outcomes. This is what OTOP aims to achieve," Go said. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, emphasized the role played by Malasakit Centers in ensuring convenient access to the government's medical assistance programs. As part of his commitment to alleviating the struggles faced by individuals and families while improving their access to essential healthcare services, Go initiated the establishment of Malasakit Centers in 2018. This was institutionalized in 2019 through the passage of RA 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Go. Since its inception, the Malasakit Centers have helped more than seven million poor and indigent patients nationwide. Currently, there are 159 Malasakit Centers, including those at Ilocos Sur Provincial Hospital (formerly known as Gabriela Silang General Hospital) in Vigan City and Ilocos Sur Medical Center in Candon City. Moreover, Go also supported the construction of more than 600 Super Health Centers in strategic locations nationwide including four in Ilocos Sur as identified by the Department of Health which is the lead implementing agency. The initiative was a collaborative effort among lawmakers, LGUs and the DOH. According to Go, Super Health Centers are designed to focus on primary care, consultation, and early detection of diseases, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country, especially in rural communities. It will also help decongest hospitals. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, also supported various infrastructure projects, including the road improvements in Magsingal and Narvacan; acquisition of medical equipment for public health facilities in Cervantes, Magsingal, Narvacan, Salcedo, Sinait and Sta. Lucia; acquisition of ambulance units in Burgos, Nagbukel, San Emilio and Tagudin; and construction of multipurpose buildings, halls and gyms in Bantay, Cabugao, Santa, Sigay and Sugpon. The post Ilocos Sur micro-entreps get help from Bong Go appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Julie Anne San Jose is confident Rayver Cruz will not cheat on her
When Rayver Cruz moved to GMA-7 in 2018 after 18 years of being under contract with ABS-CBN, he made many new friends in the Kapuso network, including its homegrown star Julie Anne San Jose. They worked together on the musical programs Studio 7 and when it folded in 2020, on All-Out Sundays, as well as in the reality competition show "The Clash". Rayver and Julie Anne also started working on a movie but filming halted when the Covid-19 pandemic hit in March 2020. Meantime, their friendship grew and developed into a romantic relationship. They made their status publicly known by exchanging “I love yous” during the singer-actress’ Julieverse concert in November 2022.The couple eventually resumed filming their first movie together, now titled "The Cheating Game", and is now showing in cinemas. “Ang surreal pa rin kasi napakabilis talaga ng panahon,” Julie Anne said in a recent online presser for the first film venture of GMA Public Affairs, in cooperation with GMA Pictures. It is directed by Rod Marmol, who also wrote the script with Sharon Masula and Jessie Villabrille. “We’re very, very excited and grateful kasi panibagong family, may new set of characters, new set of people to work with, a great production team. Everyone’s been so nice and accommodating, and sobrang maalaga sila. We had a healthy working environment.” “Mas na-excite ako kasi si Ray ulit ang katrabaho ko,” she added, referring to her on-and-offscreen leading man. “But this time, sa acting naman. Kasi usually nakikita kami sa The Clash, AOS, sa mga performances, hosting.” She went on mentioning their costars Winwyn Marquez and Martin del Rosario. “It’s such a delight kasi parang breath of fresh air. Very, very excited to show to everyone what we did.” Rayver expressed the same sentiments during media conference. “Sobrang excited, halo-halo ang nararamdaman ko, pero lamang ang excitement. Pinaganda naman ito nang husto. Siyempre first movie project namin. Excited and happy na mapabilang sa first movie project ng GMA Public Affairs.” He also declared being “very, very proud” of how his leading lady and girlfriend showed a “different Julie Anne” in the movie tackling the touchy topic of cheating in relationships. She plays Hope, an idealistic young professional who thinks she can change the world through the nongovernmental organization she’s set up with her fiancé. She then discovers her fiancé’s infidelity through a sex video that has gone viral. Her world crumbles until she meets Rayver’s character, Miguel,a self-made businessman who seems to be the Mr. Right that Hope is looking for. But is he really? Julie Anne agreed she’s showing a different side of her in the movie, especially since she just essayed the role of Maria Clara in the hit drama series "Maria Clara at Ibarra". “So ibang Julie naman ang makikita n’yo dito. I guess mas daring, bolder, stronger. I feel I had to take a leap of faith din, or I had to take risks din, like everyone din sa movie — si Ray, si Martin, si Win. It’s a team effort.” On cheating “May iba-iba kasing klase ng cheating,” Julie Anne pointed out. “If you watch 'The Cheating Game', lahat ng kinds ng cheating parang ando’n, lahat ng elements. I think it will also explain kasi may kanya-kanya tayong definition. “Pero for me, non-nego siya. Once it’s done, it’s done. But, most importantly, forgive yourself. ’Yun ang major takeaway ko sa film na ito as a viewer. But as someone who’s part of the cast, madami siyempre akong natutunan sa buong production, sa story.” Rayver put in his two cents, too. “Kahit saang side ka mapunta, iba-iba ang atake ng tao. Gano’n din ang mangyayari sa character namin ditong apat. Iba-ibang circumstances, reaction sa betrayal or sa cheating. Doon kami magtatagpo. Maganda ang lumabas kasi gina-guide kami.” When asked if she’s experienced being cheated on, Julie Anne gave this response: “Parang lahat naman tayo nakaka-experience ng ganitong mga sitwasyon. Not just in relationships, but in general, in life. Iba-iba talaga tayo ng coping mechanism. For me, it’s a non-nego. “Paano ako naka-move on? Sa akin kasi sobrang bigat na reason ang cheating. Mabilis akong maka-move on. Of course, surround yourself with people na sumusuporta sa ’yo kasi importante na may support system ka parati. Always be with your friends, your loved ones, family. Sila talaga ang talagang dadamay sa ’yo. “Importante rin na patawarin mo hindi lang ang taong nagkasala sa ’yo, pero patawarin mo rin ang sarili mo. Eventually, matututunan mong makabangon ulit. Iwasan mo — halimbawa naloko ka na — kasalanan ng iba. Sana huwag mong hayaan na mangyari ulit. At least you’ll know how to handle and deal with it.” Rayver offered a different perspective: “Siguro minsan okay na (ma-experience), ’yun kasi ang mga paraan na binibigyan ka ng lesson in life. Doon ka matututo, sa experience. Para sa future relationships, or pagsubok na ganyan, medyo aware ka na. Alam mo na how to handle. Lahat naman tayo nabubulag pag nagmahal tayo dahil grabe tayo magmahal. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Kailangan mo ’yun, experience in life. “Kung sa kabilang side ka naman, na nag-cheater. Siguro mas okay na i-own mo na lang, and eventually maging mas honest. Para iwas sa super sakitan na mangyari. Naniniwala naman ako na lahat ng tao, nagbabago. Mas okay na maging happy lang tayo in life. Pampatibay, pampa-texture in life.” Julie Anne confidently declared that her current relationship would not end up as a casualty of cheating. “Kasi matagal na kaming magkaibigan. Naniniwala ako na ang friendship ang best foundation ng isang relationship. Hindi ko na kailangang mag-pretend. Hindi na rin niya kailangang mag-pretend. Kilala na namin ang bawat isa. Importante rin ang comfortability. And honesty.” Rayver plays Miguel, who seems to be the Mr. Right that Julie Anne’s character Hope is longing for (still from "The Cheating Game). The post Julie Anne San Jose is confident Rayver Cruz will not cheat on her appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Suppress TB, AIDS cases — BBM
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday said a holistic approach is needed to halt the rising cases of tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus or HIV in the country. In his annual State of the Nation Address, Marcos put forward his concern about the alarming cases of TB and HIV/AIDS in the country. “The whole of society must exert effort to suppress the alarming rise of tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS,” he said in his 2nd SoNA. “To stem the tide, the strategic plan is to ensure early diagnosis and treatment and ample testing sites and medications.” Based on the 2022 Global TB Report, the Philippines is one of the eight countries that account for two-thirds of the estimated global TB cases. The Philippines is also one of the countries that contribute to most of the estimated increase in tuberculosis deaths, next to India, Indonesia and Myanmar. Meanwhile, more Filipinos are getting infected with HIV, which could turn into AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome if it remains untreated. In May alone, the Department of Health breached the country’s 2,000 mark on HIV cases. Food stamp program Marcos also mentioned the newly launched Food Stamp Program, which aims to address hunger and nutrition-related issues like stunting and wasting. “The FSP shall complement our nutrition continuity programs, such as the First 1,000 Days program which ensures nourishment for the first three years of a child’s life,” he said. “The Supplemental Feeding Program is for our children attending daycare centers. The K-to-6 Program will feed Kindergarten to Grade 6 public school students, who are suffering from wasting and severe malnutrition,” he added. The President also mentioned the government’s efforts to catch up with the routine vaccinations of Filipino children who missed their immunization vaccines due to Covid-19 restrictions. “As of this year, more than 80 percent of our eligible children have been vaccinated against measles, rubella and polio,” he said. Structural changes Marcos said the country’s healthcare system is “undergoing structural changes.” He noted that public health facilities are being increased, both in number and capability. “Last year, more than 3,400 projects were completed. To improve capacity for specialized medical treatment, specialty centers in various fields are being established and integrated into our government hospitals,” he said. “Last year, an additional 60 specialty centers were opened to the public,” he added. The President also boasted of the government’s success in its effort to lower the cost of basic medicines. “The prices of most important and basic medicines dropped by almost 90 percent,” he said. Meanwhile, he vowed the long-overdue Covid-19 benefits of healthcare workers would be released. “To reward the sacrifices of our health workers from private and public hospitals last pandemic, we are distributing their Covid Health Emergency Allowance and other pending benefits,” he said. Last week, he lifted the Covid-19 emergency in the country through Proclamation No. 297. Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said the emergency allowance intended for medical frontliners and the emergency use authorization for Covid-19 vaccines will be extended an additional year. According to a United Private Hospital Unions of the Philippines report, the still-unpaid benefits of 20,304 healthcare workers stood at P1.84 billion, which is comprised of the One Covid Allowance amounting to P985.6 million, P737.5 million in health emergency allowance, special risk allowance amounting to 16.8 million, and meals, accommodation and transportation benefits totaling P6.7 million. Last October, then Health officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said the DoH would need a total of P103 billion to pay for the combined benefits of more than 800,000 healthcare workers involved in the Covid-19 healthcare response. Vergeire said the agency still needs to pay at least P64 billion worth of health emergency allowances intended for health workers under Republic Act 11494, also known as the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act. The post Suppress TB, AIDS cases — BBM appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos wants all-out efforts vs TB, HIV/AIDS
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday said a holistic approach is needed to halt the rising cases of tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus or HIV in the country. In his annual State of the Nation Address, Marcos put forward his concern about the alarming cases of TB and HIV/AIDS in the country. “The whole of society must exert effort to suppress the alarming rise of tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS,” Marcos said. “To stem the tide, the strategic plan is to ensure early diagnosis and treatment and ample testing sites and medications.” Based on the 2022 Global TB Report, the Philippines is one of the eight countries that account for two-thirds of the estimated global TB cases. The Philippines is also one of the countries that contribute to most of the estimated increase in tuberculosis deaths, next to India, Indonesia and Myanmar. Meanwhile, more Filipinos are getting infected with HIV, which could turn into AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome if untreated. In May alone, the Department of Health breached the country’s 2,000 mark on HIV cases. Food Stamp Program Marcos also mentioned the newly launched Food Stamp Program, which aims to address hunger and nutrition-related issues like stunting and wasting. “The FSP shall complement our nutrition continuity programs, such as the First 1,000 Days program which ensures nourishment for the first three years of a child’s life,” he said. “The Supplemental Feeding Program is for our children attending daycare centers. The K-to-6 Program will feed Kindergarten to Grade 6 public school students, who are suffering from wasting and severe malnutrition,” he added. The President also mentioned the government’s efforts to catch up with the routine vaccinations of Filipino children, who missed their immunization vaccines due to Covid-19 restrictions. “As of this year, more than 80 percent of our eligible children have been vaccinated against measles, rubella and polio,” he said. Structural changes Marcos said the country’s healthcare system is “undergoing structural changes.” He noted that public health facilities are being increased, both in number and capability. “Last year, more than 3,400 projects were completed. To improve capacity for specialized medical treatment, specialty centers in various fields are being established and integrated into our government hospitals,” he said. “In the last year, additional 60 specialty centers have been opened to the public,” he added. The President also noted the government's success in efforts to lower the costs of basic medicines in the country. “The prices of most important and basic medicines dropped from almost 90 percent,” he said. ‘Health Emergency Allowance’ Meanwhile, Marcos also vowed the release of long-overdue Covid-19 benefits for healthcare workers “To reward the sacrifices of our health workers from private and public hospitals last pandemic, we are distributing their Covid Health Emergency Allowance and other pending benefits,” he said. Last week, he lifted the Covid-19 emergency in the Philippines through Proclamation No. 297. Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said emergency allowance intended for medical frontliners, as well as emergency use authorization for Covid-19 vaccines, will be extended for an additional year. According to a United Private Hospital Unions of the Philippines report, the still-unpaid benefits of 20,304 healthcare workers stood at P1.84 billion, comprising the One COVID Allowance amounting to P985.6 million, P737.5 million in health emergency allowance, special risk allowance amounting to 16.8 million, and meals, accommodation and transportation benefits totaling P6.7 million. Last October, then Health officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said that the DoH would need a total of P103 billion to pay for the combined benefits of more than 800,000 healthcare workers involved in the Covid-19 healthcare response. Vergeire said the agency still needs to pay at least P64 billion worth of health emergency allowance intended for health workers under the Republic Act No. 11494, also known as the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act. The post Marcos wants all-out efforts vs TB, HIV/AIDS appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM lifts State of Public Health Emergency for COVID-19
Malacañang on Saturday said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has lifted the State of Public Health Emergency, earlier raised nationwide, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Marcos issued Proclamation No. 297 on Friday, but it was only made public through a released statement from the Presidential Communications Office on Saturday. The proclamation stated that “all prior orders, memoranda, and issuances that are effective only during the State of Public Health Emergency shall be deemed withdrawn, revoked or canceled and shall no longer be in effect.” Meanwhile, all emergency use authorization or EUA issued by the Food and Drug Administration pursuant to Executive Order 121, series of 2020, shall remain valid for a period of one year from the date of the lifting of the State of Public Health Emergency “for the sole purposes of exhausting the remaining vaccines.” Marcos’ order also enjoined all agencies to ensure that their policies, rules, and regulations shall take into consideration the lifting of the State of Public Health Emergency and to amend existing or promulgate new issuances, as may be appropriate. Former president Rodrigo Duterte previously issued Proclamation No. 922, declaring a State of Public Health Emergency all over the country amid the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. Proclamation 922 also stated that the public health emergency declaration would remain in force until lifted or withdrawn by the President. According to PCO, the succeeding EO No. 121, series of 2020—authorized the FDA to issue EUAs for COVID-19 vaccines, “which shall be valid only within the duration” of the declared public health emergency. Marcos underscored that COVID-19 remains to be a serious concern for certain subpopulations and requires continued public health response. Hence, the country has maintained sufficient healthcare system capacity and low hospital bed utilization rates even after the liberalization of COVID-19 health protocols, said PCO. The International Health Regulations Emergency Committee of the World Health Organization highlighted the decreasing trend in COVID-19 deaths last May. It also reported a decline in COVID-19-related hospitalizations and intensive care unit admission, as well as high levels of population immunity to SARS-CoV-2. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also concurred with the advice offered by the said committee regarding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and determined that COVID-19 is now an established and ongoing health issue, which no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. The WHO likewise advised the transition to long-term management of the COVID-19 pandemic. The post PBBM lifts State of Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CoA flags Baguio fund ‘misuse’
BY ALDWIN QUITASOL AND EDJEN OLIQUINO The Commission on Audit or CoA has called out the Baguio City government headed by Mayor Benjamin Magalong for using funds intended for a national project. An audit revealed the city government used P50 million in Department of Public Works and Highways funds to pay for the progress billing of its ongoing Youth Convergence Center and Sports Complex project instead of using it for the construction of the Multi-Purpose Building at the Athletic Bowl Oval at Burnham Park in Baguio City. State auditors said this was in violation of the memorandum of agreement between the city government and the DPWH, which stipulated that the P50-million fund was to be used solely for the construction of the multi-purpose building. CoA said the city government’s actions “did not achieve the purpose of the project MoA.” Daily Tribune sought but had yet to receive a response from Magalong at press time. Worse, the initial P25-million fund transfer released by the DPWH was disbursed to the contractor of a city government project as a loan, CoA added. The Baguio City government responded to the audit findings by saying that executing an amended MoA with the DPWH may have required complicated procedures. The LGU asked whether a certification from the bids and awards committee and the head of the procuring entity stating that the DPWH project had been “clustered” with the city government would be sufficient to resolve the audit issue. CoA responded that “another legal document may be executed as long as it contains the explicit approval of the DPWH as the funding agency on the ‘clustering’ of the two subject projects.” The post CoA flags Baguio fund ‘misuse’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Huw Edwards named as BBC presenter at centre of explicit images row
Veteran news anchor Huw Edwards was on Wednesday revealed by his wife as the BBC presenter accused of paying for explicit images but police said no criminal offense had been committed. Vicky Flind said in a statement that her husband was "suffering from serious mental health issues" and was now "receiving in-patient hospital care where he will stay for the foreseeable future". At the same time, Metropolitan Police issued a statement saying that there was "no information to indicate that a criminal offense has been committed". The furor has been front-page news and the lead story on radio and television news bulletins for six successive days, with frenzied speculation on social media about the star's identity until the confirmation. It comes after the BBC -- whose brand is built on public trust -- was rocked in recent years by scandals that saw some of their biggest names revealed as serial sex offenders. Edwards, 61, is one of the most recognizable faces on UK television and was the man entrusted with telling the world that Queen Elizabeth II had died. The BBC has been under the spotlight since allegations emerged last week in The Sun newspaper from the parents of a young adult, who said that the presenter had paid for explicit images of their child. The young adult, however, called the claims "rubbish". The tabloid newspaper did not name the presenter but accused the BBC of failing to properly investigate the claims, sparking another crisis at the national broadcaster. Edward's wife said she was revealing his identity "after what have been five extremely difficult days for our family" and was doing so "primarily out of concern for his mental well-being and to protect our children". "Once well enough to do so, he intends to respond to the stories that have been published," she added, saying that he only learned of the allegations on Thursday. Further claims have since been made against the presenter, as three more people came forward with complaints over the last two days. The BBC itself reported on Tuesday that another person in their 20s had come forward to say they received threatening messages from the presenter while The Sun reported that he also broke Covid lockdown rules to meet another young person he met on a dating site. Creepy messages The alleged pandemic breach has a particular resonance in the UK as the BBC was at the time reporting on the country's third lockdown and how it was being enforced. Covid rule-breaking in Downing Street also led to the long-running "Partygate" scandal that contributed to the downfall of former prime minister Boris Johnson. A fourth person also told The Sun the star sent messages containing love hearts and kisses on Instagram when they were aged 17. The first claims emerged in an article published Friday, in which the parents said the presenter had paid a total of £35,000 ($45,000) for the pictures. The family said their child had used the money to fuel a crack cocaine addiction, prompting lawyers acting for the young person to deny the claims. The post Huw Edwards named as BBC presenter at centre of explicit images row appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Second SoNA could define future
Barely two weeks from now, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will be delivering his second State of the Nation Address at the Batasang Pambansa, an event highly anticipated if only because he will be making it after recently completing his first year in office. What could be the possible topics of interest that the President would be expounding on? Based on his recent pronouncements as well as policy statements, we tried to hazard a guess. First and foremost is Economic Development and Jobs Creation. He has said so on several occasions and his economic managers have emphasized in no uncertain terms that the government’s economic policies and initiatives are aimed at fostering growth, attracting investments, and creating employment opportunities. This may include updates on infrastructure projects, trade agreements, tax reforms, and efforts to promote entrepreneurship and innovation. Second is Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation. Knowing this to be close to his heart, the President may talk about the government’s initiatives to address poverty, reduce inequality, and improve social welfare programs. Topics could include updates on conditional cash transfer programs, access to healthcare and education, housing projects, and measures to support marginalized sectors. Third is Infrastructure Development. Highlighting the progress of infrastructure projects and future development plans could be a significant topic. The President could provide updates on road and transportation networks, airports, seaports, energy infrastructure, and digital connectivity initiatives aimed at improving the country’s competitiveness and enhancing the quality of life for citizens. Fourth is Covid-19 Response and Recovery. The President might provide updates on the country’s efforts to combat the Covid-19 pandemic, including vaccination campaigns, testing strategies, healthcare infrastructure development, and economic recovery plans. Highlighting achievements, addressing challenges, and outlining future strategies would be relevant topics of discussion. Fifth is Education and Skills Development. The President could discuss efforts to enhance the quality of education, promote access to education, and improve skills development programs. Topics could include updates on reforms in the education system, investments in educational infrastructure, and initiatives to address gaps in technical and vocational training. Sixth is Foreign Policy and Diplomacy. Having left the country several times in his first year to sell the Philippines to investors, the President could expound on the country’s foreign policy priorities, regional partnerships, and international engagements. This may include updates on diplomatic relations, participation in regional organizations, and efforts to protect national interests and promote global cooperation on various issues. Seventh is Environmental Conservation and Climate Change. Given the increasing global focus on sustainability and climate change, the President could highlight the government’s efforts in environmental conservation, renewable energy development, and climate change adaptation. Updates on initiatives to protect natural resources, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable practices would be of interest. Eight is Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Measures. Addressing transparency, accountability, and good governance is crucial for building public trust. The President could discuss anti-corruption efforts, institutional reforms, and initiatives to strengthen government processes, including updates on key legislation, initiatives for streamlining the bureaucracy and promoting ethical conduct among public officials. Ninth is Peace and Security. Providing updates on efforts to maintain peace and security within the country, addressing terrorism, insurgency, and promoting peaceful resolution of conflicts would be relevant. The President could discuss the progress in peace negotiations, law enforcement initiatives, and measures to ensure the safety of citizens. Tenth is Social Issues and Cultural Preservation. Addressing pressing social issues such as gender equality, human rights, indigenous rights, and cultural preservation may be a part of the address. The President could discuss government initiatives, legal reforms, and cultural heritage preservation efforts. Of course, there are other topics that the President could raise as the actual contents of a State of the Nation Address depending on the specific context, priorities, and policies of the government at the time. The foregoing may not exactly be the ones that he will address. Let us keep in mind that what matters is the genuine concern to address the plight of Filipinos in general and make his policies inclusive to all. The post Second SoNA could define future appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Faster QC Helpline 122 assured
The Quezon City government has made it easier for the public to seek emergency assistance through its Helpline 122, Mayor Joy Belmonte said yesterday. To get assistance, a caller needs only press one of two buttons to either get connected to emergency responders or reach the city government’s many departments, she said. “We shortened and simplified the process in calling Helpline 122 because we know that emergencies require immediate actions,” Belmonte explained. “Every second counts when it comes to saving a life in danger.” After getting connected with 122, the caller can press #1 for emergency or press #2 for other concerns, like Covid-19 services, city program inquiries, complaints and feedback mechanisms. Reports on violence against women and children and concerns like mental health may be entertained on either number depending on the circumstances. Belmonte recently praised the Quezon City Police District headed by P/Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III for its three-minute response time to calls for assistance. “There’s no need to go to our precincts. We’re just a call away through Helpline 122,” Torre said. “We’ll come to you within three minutes.” Belmonte said they are also collaborating with the Natasha Goulbourn Foundation for the integration of their mental health hotline with Helpline 122. Helpline 122 is part of Belmonte’s 14-point agenda. The city responds to an average of 890 calls per month. The post Faster QC Helpline 122 assured appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Angara says Frasco deserves a chance after ‘Love the Philippines’ fiasco
Senators have differing opinions on the controversies surrounding the newly launched “Love the Philippines’ campaign by the Department of Tourism. Senator Sonny Angara said the recent video mess “should not diminish” the accomplishments made by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco in promoting the country to the world. Angara also commended Frasco for swiftly terminating the DoT's contract with advertising agency, DDB Philippines, for more promotional videos. "Clearly there were issues with what was presented by the advertising agency, but what is important is that Sec. Frasco acted immediately to address the issue and ensured that no public funds were wasted for this purpose," he said. Angara added that Frasco should be given a chance to redeem herself, citing the latter’s efforts to revive the country’s tourism industry hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic. "What the DOT has done over the past two years following the pandemic has been remarkable and with Sec. Frasco leading the charge in declaring the Philippines open for tourists, I am confident that Philippine tourism will be able to reach new heights and the world will see the many reasons to Love the Philippines,” he said. According to Angara, the DoT recorded over 2 million international visitor arrivals in the country from January to the middle of May this year,—which already breached the department’s 1.7 million visitor target for the year. For the period of January to April, the DOT recorded P168.2 billion in inbound visitor receipts, which represents a 782 percent increase from the P19.1 billion in tourism revenues generated over the same period last year. Under the leadership of Sec. Frasco, Angara noted that the Philippines has received six nominations in the World Travel Awards Asia namely: Asia's Leading Island Destination; Asia's Leading Beach Destination; Asia's Leading Dive Destination; Intramuros as Asia's Leading Tourist Attraction; Cebu as Asia's Leading Wedding Destination; and the DoT as Asia's Leading Tourist Board. Angara also cited the move of the DoT to develop the Philippines as a health and wellness tourism hub—an idea that he has been pushing for some time already. The Philippines was also recently elected as vice president of the 25th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization and chairman of the Commission for East Asia and the Pacific. Meanwhile, Senator Jinggoy Estrada lauded the DoT’s move against the advertising agency saying that its prompt response and responsible handling of the situation deserves recognition. “Mistakes happen but it is how we respond and rectify them that truly matters…The DOT exemplified accountability and commitment to learning from this incident,” he said. Estrada believes that the DoT’s acknowledgment of the gaffe and taking immediate steps to rectify the situation “demonstrated” the government’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of our tourism industry. “Understandably, any campaign of this magnitude may face criticisms and differing opinions. Yet, how Sec. Frasco's handling of the issues confronting the DoT is both admirable and necessary,” said Estrada. “It is through proactive measures that we can continue to promote the Philippines as a premier tourist destination while ensuring accuracy and responsible marketing practices," he added. The post Angara says Frasco deserves a chance after ‘Love the Philippines’ fiasco appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Lifting of Covid-19 state of public health emergency imminent
The Philippines will soon officially lift the state of public health emergency in the country brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said Tuesday. Speaking to reporters following the Malacañang Press Briefing, Herbosa said a formal resolution from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases is needed to lift the Covid-19 public health emergency. "There's no formal order yet, we are still waiting for the (order), but we are in de facto status," Herbosa said. "The instruction for me is to recover from the Covid and get back on the economy," he added. When asked about Marcos' stance on lifting the public health emergency, Herbosa said the President believes the country's COVID-19 health emergency has been "de facto" lifted due to easing restrictions. "What he said is that it's de facto as if we have already lifted it. Wearing masks is now optional, right?" Herbosa said. During the press briefing, Herbosa mentioned that the Interagency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases had already endorsed lifting the emergency during the term of DOH officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire. "If that's not yet signed, I'll follow it up with the reiteration. At that time, they were still hesitant because there was still the problem of how we get the bivalent if we lift it. But now, I think that obstacle is done kasi may CPR na tayo and everything," the Herbosa said. While Marcos said, he is "in favor" of lifting the emergency status of Covid-19 in the country, the Department of Health chief said the Office of the President needed to review the proposal thoroughly. "Yes, yes. This is one of (the President's) instructions to me to really get out of the Covid pandemic," Herbosa said. Former president Rodrigo Duterte declared a public health emergency in response to Covid-19 on 8 March 2022. The public health emergency declaration will remain in force until it is lifted or revoked by the current President. But the World Health Organization last May lifted the global health emergency declaration for the Covid-19 pandemic that killed nearly 7 million people worldwide as of June 2023. The post Lifting of Covid-19 state of public health emergency imminent appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘It really feels like coming home’
Dr. Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa assumed official control of the Department of Health on Monday, less than two weeks after being appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. A turnover ceremony was held at the DoH main office in Manila, with Herbosa waving the agency’s banner after receiving it from former officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire, symbolizing the transfer of authority during the flag-raising ceremony. The ceremony coincided with the DoH’s week-long 125th anniversary celebration with the theme “One25. One DoH: Sama-sama Tungo sa Pagbabago at Kalusugan ng Lahat.” “It really feels like coming home,” Herbosa said in his speech. Prior to his appointment as Health chief on 5 June, Herbosa served as special adviser to the National Task Force against Covid-19. He also served as undersecretary at the Department of Health from 2010 to 2015 during the Aquino administration. Under his leadership, Herbosa vowed the Health department would be more “humanistic.” “I know they want it to be regulatory to promote good governance and prevent corruption, but I think we should also not forget that there’s a human side in health,” he said. “The way we deliver and govern should be humanistic. It should be humane. The regulations, operations, and assistance to hospitals, whether private or not, should be humane, in terms of providing services to the public,” he said. Meanwhile, Vergeire, who led the agency for almost a year, expressed her gratitude to Herbosa for “aligning” the direction of the Health department with her initiatives. “I think all are aligned. I just want to say that I am grateful to Secretary Ted Herbosa because he did not veer away from the direction that we were going or that we started when I was the OIC,” she told reporters. Herbosa named Vergeire the agency’s overall head of undersecretaries. 8-point agenda Meanwhile, Herbosa bared his eight-point agenda for the Health department to fully realize the Universal Health Care Act. Among the priorities of the DoH are emergency preparedness, disease prevention, use of technology for faster medical assistance, emotional and mental health, and protection of healthcare workers’ rights. Agreement with PhilHealth In a related development, Herbosa on Monday led the signing of a service level agreement with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and Primary Care Provider Network, in a bid to fully realize the Universal Health Care Act. Under the agreement, five local government units, two private sector groups of clinics and doctors, together with PhilHealth, will form the first seven primary care networks in the country. Republic Act 11223 or the UHC Act defines “primary care” as first-contact, accessible, continuous, comprehensive and coordinated; accessible at the time of need; with a range of services for all presenting conditions; and able to coordinate referrals to other doctors, clinics and hospitals in the health care delivery system, when needed. According to Herbosa, the state insurer will allot P500 to P750 per patient per year, on a reimbursement basis to Konsulta Package Providers. “The money will be given to them based on the number of constituents who are beneficiaries of the primary care network,” he said. Around two million Filipinos from the provinces of Bataan, Guimaras, Quezon, South Cotabato, as well as Baguio City are expected to benefit from the PCN innovation. Under his leadership, Herbosa vowed the Health department would be more ‘humanistic.’ Another 300,000 Filipinos under the care of the LiFE group as well as QualiMed will also be covered by the improvements in primary care financing. The current PhilHealth Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (Konsulta) primary care benefit package covers patient consultations, any of 13 laboratory and diagnostic tests as ordered by a doctor, and 21 common medications that can be prescribed according to medical needs. In a joint statement with the DoH, the state insurer said Konsulta PCPN innovates this arrangement on a “sandbox” or testing basis in pre-selected areas, by allowing advanced payment or frontloading of funds even before services are rendered. “Konsulta PCPN will also only pay networks of primary care doctors and clinics, instead of the individual clinics like the regular Konsulta benefit,” PhilHealth said. “These innovations are enabled by new Commission on Audit accounting guidelines. The seven Konsulta PCPNs caring for 2.3 million Filipinos are projected to be paid a total of P1.2 billion, which may be used to improve infrastructure, equipment, and staff compensation even before the first patient starts using the services,” it added. The post ‘It really feels like coming home’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Herbosa’s nursing plan backed
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said on Thursday the private sector supports his proposal to hire unlicensed nursing graduates to work in public hospitals. He said companies have reached out to him to provide scholarships for nursing graduates who failed or have yet to take the board exams. “They came to me and said they would give scholarships to those who did not pass the board exams if they were hired in that position,” he said in a radio interview. He said tuition at review centers was usually around P25,000, which many nursing graduates could not afford. Should the plan push through, a return of service would be required of the nurses. “I hope they would not leave for higher pay because I helped them pass, I helped them find a job. They will have to pay four years to the government and render service as public hospital nurses,” he said. The Department of Health earlier said there were 4,500 vacant plantilla positions for nurses at 72 of its hospitals across the country. Meanwhile, Herbosa said he is in good terms with Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, who headed the agency as officer-in-charge for almost a year. “Usec. Vergeire is a very professional employee of the Department of Health. I met her for the first time when I was an undersecretary 10 years ago. She had proven herself even before,” he said. “She’s been a career person. She served very well as a spokesperson for the Department of Health during the time of the pandemic, while I was the spokesperson for the National Task Force against Covid-19,” he added. “We’ve worked with each other before, I see no problem helping each other [again].” Vergeire, who had served as DoH officer-in-charge since July of last year, was made the agency’s principal undersecretary a few days after Herbosa was appointed Health Secretary. The post Herbosa’s nursing plan backed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Herbosa pushes healthcare reforms
Dr. Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa took his oath on Tuesday as secretary of the Department of Health, a position that had been vacant since June last year. He was sworn into office by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Malacañang. Herbosa pledged to fully implement the Universal Health Care Law, or UHCL, by sustaining its gains, strengthening health sector strategy interventions and introducing healthcare reforms. The UHCL, or Republic Act 11223, was enacted in 2019 to provide universal health coverage for all Filipinos, regardless of their income or employment status. “The DoH family welcomes this development, as this is crucial to the department’s operations. With this transition, the DoH ensures that healthcare services will remain unhampered,” the agency said. Marcos named Herbosa Health secretary Monday night, putting him at the helm of the department vice Health officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire, who had led the agency since July of last year. Vergeire assured the public that DoH will provide “all-out support” and a smooth transition for Herbosa. “Secretary Ted can be assured of our sincere support from the whole DoH family,” she said. Before his appointment, Herbosa served as an undersecretary at the DoH from 2010 to 2015, contributing to various initiatives such as the establishment of the Hospital Accreditation Commission, modernizing the Philippine Orthopedics Center, and promoting public-private partnerships in health. He is also a former undersecretary and concurrent regional director at the DoH-National Capital Regional Office. From October 2017 to April 2021, Herbosa served as executive vice president of the University of the Philippines System, contributing to its development and growth. He has held various key positions, including chief of the Division of Trauma at the Department of Surgery, Philippine General Hospital; chairman of the board of Physicians for Peace Philippines, and third vice president of the UP Alumni Association. He has likewise served as a professor in the Emergency Department at Hospital Universiti Kebangsaan in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and at the National University of Malaysia. Herbosa has been involved in numerous international roles and collaborations, including serving on the board of directors of the World Association for Disaster and Emergency Medicine. He is a former medical consultant and adviser for the Australasian Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians in Melbourne, Australia, and Regional Education Coordinator for the HOPE (Hospital Preparedness and Emergencies) Program at Johns Hopkins University Center for International Emergencies, Disasters and Refugee Studies in Maryland, USA. Amid the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Herbosa served as a Special Adviser to the National Task Force Against Covid-19, offering guidance and contributing to the formulation of strategies to mitigate the impact of the virus. He also served as an international consultant in several countries, including Palau, Maldives, Malaysia, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Vietnam, Tunisia and Thailand, making notable contributions to emergency medicine and trauma care. Dr. Herbosa’s involvement in the development of the STOP DEATH Program and his membership in the Safe Surgery Saves Lives Global Task Force, which developed the WHO safe surgery checklist, demonstrated his dedication to improving healthcare systems. ‘Interestingly, Gibo is a trained pilot. And he knows that our defense requirements are evolving from mainly insurgency-based to more territorial protection — and that requires air superiority in our own airspace.’ Herbosa also held a prominent position as a professor at the College of Medicine at the University of the Philippines Manila. Aside from Herbosa, Marcos named Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. as secretary of the Department of National Defense. Meanwhile, senators expressed their support for the appointments of Teodoro and Herbosa as Defense and Health chiefs, respectively. “Secretary Teodoro is a tried and tested public servant and we trust that he will head the Department of Defense most capably, particularly amid this atmosphere of brewing tensions in our waters,” Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said in a statement. “And we are happy to see the Department of Health helmed by an experienced public health expert. Secretary Herbosa’s appointment comes at an opportune time, with our Regional Specialty Centers Act having just gotten bicameral approval, and we are hopeful that he will spearhead a truly whole-of-nation approach in the improvement of our public health services,” he added. He said with the appointments of Teodoro and Herbosa, the President has “just addressed the two most pressing challenges of our time — territorial integrity and our full recovery from the pandemic.” “Their appointments should give a big boost to our fight to have a secure and stronger nation supported by a healthy population,” he said. Likewise, Senator Grace Poe welcomed the appointments of the new department heads. “We trust that their expertise and experience in their respective fields will help them carry out the gargantuan tasks that lie ahead,” she said in a separate statement. Poe said the new secretaries are “crucial in deciding and implementing strategies in addressing the various health issues we are facing and in upholding the country’s territorial integrity against various threats.” “Focus and commitment on the job coupled with straight and true service will fortify our health and defense sectors and deliver the services our people deserve,” she added. Senator JV Ejercito urged Teodoro to ensure the successful modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. “We need to expedite these efforts to put up a robust defense posture and reinforce our coastal defenses amid the growing tensions in the West Philippine Sea and South China Sea,” he said. Meanwhile, former Health secretary, now Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin, wished Herbosa all the luck and the perseverance to deliver accessible healthcare to Filipinos. According to Garin, the DoH needs a manager who can oversee the prompt delivery of services to the public. She added Herbosa also needs to tackle the so-called infodemics or the proliferation of fake medical news. Speaker Martin Romualdez and Albay Rep. Joey Salceda said the President made the right choices in Teodoro and Herbosa. “Interestingly, Gibo is a trained pilot. And he knows that our defense requirements are evolving from mainly insurgency-based to more territorial protection — and that requires air superiority in our own airspace,” said Salceda. The post Herbosa pushes healthcare reforms appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Taiwan can help
Dr. Jui-yuan Hsueh, minister of Health and Welfare in Taiwan, recently wrote to the media in the Philippines and around the world pushing for Taiwan’s participation in the 76th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland. During a detente between Taipei and Beijing between 2009 and 2016, Taiwan was invited to the WHA as an observer. However, due to rising tensions between China and Taiwan since Tsai Ing-wen was elected President in Taiwan, the country has not been invited to the WHA since 2017. Dr. Hsueh said in his letter to the media that Taiwan urges the World Health Organization and all relevant stakeholders to support Taiwan’s inclusion in the WHA as an observer, as well as Taiwan’s full participation in WHO meetings, mechanisms and activities. He wrote that “Now that the Covid-19 pandemic is abating and dialogue on strengthening health systems worldwide is accelerating, Taiwan should not be left out. Taiwan can help, and Taiwan’s inclusion would make the world healthier, more sustainable, and more equitable.” Not only Dr. Hsueh, overseas Taiwanese communities in Ireland, Canada, the United States, Italy and the Philippines also hold events urging the international society to support Taiwan’s plea. Taiwanese in San Francisco hired a pilot to fly a private jet showing a banner which says “Support Taiwan join WHA. Taiwan can help.” Those who live in Guam held a beach cleanup, which attracted more than 300 Taiwanese and locals to support this appeal. Taiwanese living in Vancouver joined the Vancouver Sun Run to drum up support for Taiwan’s participation in this year’s WHA. The presidents of Taiwan Association Inc. of the Philippines and Taiwanese Compatriot Association in the Philippines wrote to Enrique A. Manalo, secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, saying that Taiwan hopes to engage with the global health security network and work with WHO to make global health architecture more resilient, thereby promoting health emergency prevention, preparedness and response. It is noteworthy that the government and overseas Taiwanese have been fighting for the health right of Taiwanese people to be able to participate in the WHA every year since 2017 as the exclusion of Taiwan not only put 23 million Taiwanese at risk, but it also hinders the effort of the WHO to get sufficient information immediately if there is another outbreak of infections caused by another unknown pathogen in the region, like the severe acute respiratory syndrome pandemic in 2003 and the Covid pandemic. Taiwan built its universal healthcare insurance system in 1995. Since then, the government has continued to provide disease prevention and healthcare services so that people of all ages can enjoy the right to health. Nonetheless, it is little known that George Leslie Mackay, a Canadian missionary who went to Taiwan in 1872 and almost every Taiwanese knows him today, established the first Western-style hospital and first girls’ school in northern Taiwan, and Tsai Ah-hsin, Taiwan’s first female physician, was among the distinguished alumni of this girls’ school. Because of the history of accepting foreign aid in the modernization of its public health system, Taiwan finds it essential to share its experience and to advance global healthcare services to benefit people around the world. The cruel reality is that not only in the healthcare field, Taiwan is also not allowed to participate in other international organizations, such as the International Criminal Police Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization. While the Philippine National Police has been practical and worked with Taiwan to solve multiple criminal cases both in the Philippines and Taiwan, including busting a transgender kidnapping group in Metro Manila in 2022, it is still vital for Taiwan to cooperate with other countries to combat cybercrime and other cross-border crimes now that the world has basically become a global village. The post Taiwan can help appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Not yet time to be complacent
After more than three years of suffering from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization or WHO has officially declared that the virus outbreak is no longer classified as a public health emergency of international concern or PHEIC. According to WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the emergency committee met for the 15th time and recommended to officially end the classification of Covid-19 as a global health emergency. WHO, however, emphasized that the pandemic is far from over. Some people still get infected, and the virus continues to claim lives. “Last week, Covid-19 claimed a life every three minutes and that’s just the deaths we know about. As we speak, thousands of people around the world are fighting for their lives in intensive care units,” Ghebreyesus was quoted as saying. “And millions more continue to live with the debilitating effects of the post-Covid-19 condition. This virus is here to stay. It is still killing, and it’s still changing. The risk remains of new variants emerging that could cause new surges in cases and deaths,” he said. Locally, the Department of Health echoed the same view. It once again encouraged Filipinos to exercise caution and not to be complacent. “Even though the WHO has lifted the PHEIC status, it didn’t say the pandemic is over,” Health officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said in a briefing. “We want to remind everyone that even though the PHEIC has been lifted, we cannot be complacent at this point. We still need to be vigilant.” To put things in perspective, there are still an increasing number of Covid-19 cases in the Philippines. According to OCTA Research, the positivity rate in Metro Manila rose slightly on 11 May to 24.9 percent from the 24.2 percent registered on 10 May. In addition, the National Capital Region’s hospital bed occupancy was at 28.3 percent on 11 May compared to 25.5 percent on 3 May. In this scenario, OCTA Research expects the positivity rate in Metro Manila to peak over the next two weeks. The Philippines has been somehow back to normal since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. scrapped quarantine restrictions to revive the ailing economy. But with the virus lingering and still a part of our lives, this pandemic will not be over until it is over. It is best to remain at home where we are protected the most. When outdoors, we should continue to practice minimum safety protocols such as observing social distancing, regularly washing hands, using alcohol, and wearing face masks, among other things. All of us have long prayed for this pandemic to be over, but as health experts believe, we have yet to see the light at the end of the tunnel. At the end of the day, the most important thing is to remain safe and sound, and in good health. But all of this will not be achieved with just the collaborative efforts of the public and private sectors. Our discipline and role as citizens are imperative in putting this pandemic to an end. The post Not yet time to be complacent appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go: Continue health protocols even after global health emergency lifting
Despite the lifting of the global health emergency status of COVID-19 by the World Health Organization, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has emphasized the need for Filipinos to continue observing basic health protocols, reminding them that although the status has been lifted, the threat of COVID-19 still exists. In an ambush interview after personally aiding residents in Batangas City on Monday, May 8, Go highlighted the need to be cautious and vigilant in the face of the ongoing pandemic, and to continue following health protocols such as wearing face masks when possible especially in public places, and more importantly, getting vaccinated. “Mas importante po sa akin ang buhay at kalusugan ng bawat Pilipino. Habang nandiyan po ang banta ng COVID, habang nandiyan ang sakit na COVID, ‘wag tayong maging kumpyansa. Marami pong paraan na maagapan natin ito (The life and health of every Filipino is important to me. As long the threat of COVID remains, let's not be complacent. There are many ways for us to stay safe),” he said. Go acknowledged that the lifting of the global health emergency status is a step toward returning to a more normal way of life. However, he stressed that the country cannot afford to let its guard down and become too complacent in the fight against COVID-19. “As Chair ng Committee on Health sa Senado, huwag pa rin tayong maging kumpyansa, tinanggal lang po ang pagiging world health emergency natin para unti-unti na tayo sigurong makabalik sa ating normal na pamumuhay (The global health emergency was lifted to allow us to slowly return to normal life), ” reiterated Go. On 5 May, the global emergency status for COVID-19 was lifted by the WHO, over three years since it was initially declared. However, WHO's emergencies director Michael Ryan said that "that battle is not over", adding, "We still have weaknesses and those weaknesses that we still have in our system will be exposed by this virus or another virus. And it needs to be fixed." The Department of Health responded favorably to the WHO's announcement, affirming that “this is an acknowledgment of our effective and collaborative COVID-19 response and concerted efforts to fully recover and re-open our economy.” Meanwhile, the senator also encouraged everyone to get vaccinated, and to get booster shots when they are eligible to better protect themselves from the virus. “Marami pong paraan na maagapan natin ito. Pabakuna kayo, kung qualified kayo sa booster, magpa-booster kayo. Nandidiyan lang po ang bakuna. Mas protektado po tayo kapag bakunado at ‘yan po ang tanging susi o solusyon para unti-unti na tayong makabalik sa ating normal na pamumuhay (Please get yourselves vaccinated; if you are qualified for a booster shot, get a booster shot. We're better protected if we're vaccinated, and it's the only solution so we can go back to our normal lives),” he stressed. “Hinihiling ko rin sa publiko na pangalagaan ang mga nakatatanda at may comorbidities. Kung hindi naman ito sagabal, magsuot pa rin tayo ng mask dahil hindi natin alam kung may dala tayong sakit pag-uwi sa pamamahay natin. Kung mahal natin ang ating mga magulang, mga lolo at lola, mas mabuti nang mas protektado tayo para mas maproteksyunan din sila dahil mas delikado kapag sila ang nagkasakit (I ask the public to protect the elderly and those with co-morbidities. Let's still wear face mask because we may bring diseases when we go home. If we love our parents and grandparents, it's better to keep ourselves protected so we can also protect them, because they're more prone to getting sick),” he also advised earlier. Go emphasized the sacrifices and learnings from the past three years during the pandemic must not be put to waste and efforts must continue to build a healthier and more resilient nation. “Halos tatlong taon na tayong nakikipaglaban sa COVID-19 pandemic. Huwag nating sayangin ang ating naging mga sakripisyo kontra rito. Patuloy tayong mag-ingat upang tuluyan na tayong makabangon mula sa krisis (We've been fighting the pandemic for nearly three years. Let's not waste our sacrifices. Let's continue to keep safe so we can finally overcome this crisis),” he said earlier. During the celebration of National Health Workers Day last 7 May, Go once again expressed his gratitude to all medical frontliners who have served and sacrificed in order to save lives during the pandemic. “Ang dapat nating pasalamatan ay ang ating mga frontliners. Hindi natin mararating ngayon ito lahat kung hindi dahil sa ating mga frontliners -- mga doktor, medtech, nurses, lahat down to hospital utility, salamat sa inyong sakripisyo lalo na nung panahon ng pandemya (We should all thank our frontliners. We wouldn't have reached this point without our frontliners -- the doctors, medtech, nurses, down to the hospital ulitility people, thank you for all your sacrifices especially during the height of the pandemic),” he expressed. #### The post Bong Go: Continue health protocols even after global health emergency lifting appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Rice farmers seek bigger financial aid
The one-time financial assistance that the Senate directed the Department of Agriculture (DA) to provide to rice farmers amid the declining prices of palay would not be enough, a group of rice farmers said. (MB file, Keith Bacongco) Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) National Manager Raul Montemayor said rice farmers have lost an average of P10,000 per hectare in the ongoing cropping season due to severely depressed palay prices. This was his response to the joint resolution recently passed by the Senate Committees on Agriculture and Agrarian Reform, which ordered the DA to appropriate some P3 billion in tariffs from rice imports through the 2021 national budget for cash aid to rice farmers. Under the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), which allowed unlimited rice importation in the Philippines, tariff collections in excess of P10 billion per year can be used for additional support to farmers, including cash transfers. FFF, however, noted that the proposed appropriation would only provide P5,000 per farmer if distributed to some 600,000 farmers tilling one hectare or less. If the actual number of qualified farmers is raised to 1.1 million, the subsidy would only amount to about P2,700 per farmer. Either proposal will be unfair to equally affected rice farmers tilling larger areas, the farmers’ group said. Instead, Montemayor said the government could keep palay prices stable by temporarily imposing safeguard duties or additional tariffs on imported rice. “The government allowed unlimited rice imports, resulting in low palay prices. Now, it will spend P3 billion to partially offset farmers’ losses. If it had instead imposed additional duties on imports, palay prices would not have dropped too much, there would have been no need for cash aid to farmers, and the government might have even earned extra revenues from the safeguard duties,” said Montemayor. Under the Section 10 of RTL or Republic Act (RA) 11203, in order to protect the Philippine rice industry from sudden or extreme price fluctuations, a special safeguard duty on rice shall be imposed in accordance with Safeguard Measures Act. R.A. 8800 or the Safeguard Measures Act, on the other hand, allows additional safeguard duties on top of regular tariffs in case an import surge is shown to be harmful to local farmers. “Safeguard duties will not be inflationary as claimed by the DA, because they will be applied only when there is already a proven oversupply in the market. They can be removed once the situation stabilizes,” said Montemayor. Agriculture Secretary William Dar is not keen on slapping additional tariff on rice imports, and has repeatedly appealed for public understanding about the “short-term” effects of RTL to palay prices. However, he promised to look for other solutions to the plea of the farmers like asking the National Food Authority (NFA), which buys palay at P19 per kilogram (/kg) to boost the government’s buffer stock, to intensify its palay procurement. Instead of cash aid, the FFF proposed that existing funds from the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) and extra tariff collections be re-focused to address current problems of farmers. It noted that half of farmers receiving free seeds under the RCEF had already been using certified seeds in the past, and that many were seeking other types of support that were not available under RCEF. Numerous farmers have also questioned the DA’s promotion of seed varieties like NSIC Rc222, which is of poor quality and are being shunned by traders. “Also, the P5 billion annual fund for mechanization is not moving well, and it might be more practical at this time to preserve job opportunities for farm laborers instead of displacing them with machines,” Montemayor said. “Moreover, the P1 billion budget for extension and training could be realigned, considering that farmers cannot attend training activities due to COVID-related restrictions. The P1 billion for credit could be better used for interest rate subsidies or loan guarantee programs, instead of direct loans which will benefit only 20,000 farmers,” he added......»»