Palace confident IATF strategies can address rise in COVID-19 cases
"We can lower that number because we already learned from last year that it is important to take care of our lives so we can work," the Palace spokesman said......»»
Bill seeks review of rules on reckless imprudence
The country’s road safety laws must be reviewed to address the liability of drivers in cases of traffic violations and accidents, a lawmaker from Bukidnon said yesterday, citing the high number of vehicular crashes in Metro Manila......»»
U.S. Measles Cases Surpass 2023 Levels, C.D.C. Says – The Daily Guardian
The Daily Guardian – Measles Cases on the Rise in the United States Measles cases in the United States have been steadily increasing this year,.....»»
Region 1 records 40% rise in measles cases, 1 confirmed pertussis case
Region 1 records 40% rise in measles cases, 1 confirmed pertussis case.....»»
Teen centers in Cebu City pushed amid rising teen pregnancy cases
CEBU CITY, Philippines — In response to the alarming rise in teenage pregnancy cases across Cebu, a local legislator penned a resolution urging the establishment of local adolescents and teen centers in Cebu. City Councilor Rey Gealon stipulated in the resolution the importance of providing essential support and education to empower young individuals in making.....»»
Capitol to address high cases of teenage pregnancy
Capitol to address high cases of teenage pregnancy.....»»
Scarce vessels face vacationers this long weekend — PPA
The Philippine Ports Authority on Thursday advised vacationers for this upcoming long holiday not only to travel light but to bring tons of patience, as they will likely endure long queues in ports because the number of vessels servicing passengers remains scarce. “That is the concern that we always raise, that the reason why we are having passenger congestion is because we lack vessels. In fact, in my understanding, MARINA (Marina Industry Authority Authority) has already relaxed the scheduling of vessels at Matnog Port. I hope they can also do it here in Batangas Port, which is the second largest port in the country, as well as on the other side, the Calapan Port,” said Santiago during an inspection of Batangas Port on Thursday. He said that by relaxing the scheduling of vessels, turnaround time will be faster and vessels will no longer have to go through berth waiting time. Earlier, PPA general manager Jay Daniel Santiago said they expect 1.4 million passengers to flock to various ports in the country in the lead-up to the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections this 30 October. Travellers are also heading to the provinces for the observance of All Saints and All Souls Day on 1 and 2 November. Santiago reminded passengers not to pay additional charges such as travel insurance, which scrupulous individuals are soliciting outside ports. “Travel insurances for passengers are covered by the common carrier insurance that is being paid by shipping companies. Do not be fooled by these individuals,” he said. Starting Friday, 27 October up to the weekend, some 17,000 to 20,000 passengers are expected to head to Batangas Port, he added. Meanwhile, MARINA on Thursday said it has already advised shipping companies to make sure their online ticketing systems are up and running to ensure the smooth processing of passengers. Eased shipping schedules In a separate statement, MARINA said that in anticipation of the forthcoming "Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Election and Undas 2023," the MARINA Regional Office 4 has issued a directive to relax the authorized schedule of trips for shipping operators within its jurisdiction, in anticipation of the expected surge in passengers and cargo in the coming days. The directive aims to ensure the safe, reliable and convenient transportation of passengers and rolling cargo while accommodating the heightened demand. The relaxation of schedules is guided by the conditions outlined in MARINA Advisory No. 2015-10, which provides "Guidelines during Emergency, Holiday Season, and Special Occasion." Key provisions of the said directive include immediate departure when passenger and cargo capacities are met, prompt return to congested ports, increased sailing frequencies and a strict "First Come, First Served" policy for passengers and cargo. MARINA said that in cases where the measures taken to address congestion and meet demand prove insufficient, other shipping companies or operators may be authorized to deploy their vessels to ensure the swift recovery of affected areas from emergency situations, congestion or similar circumstances. “Changes or adjustments in ship schedules will be allowed with written confirmation from MARINA and are subject to modification, cancellation, or revocation for valid reasons. A copy of this order will be provided to concerned shipping lines and government agencies, with a particular focus on the PCG, its stations, PPA, and local government units,” the statement read. The directive is effective from 27 October 2023 to 6 November 2023, or until shipping operations on the affected routes return to normal, whichever occurs earlier. The post Scarce vessels face vacationers this long weekend — PPA appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bangsamoro Municipality Passes A Landmark Ordinance On LGBTQIA+ Community
Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao - In a significant stride towards ensuring equal rights and protection for the LGBTQIA+ community, the Municipal Council of Panglima Sugala has passed a comprehensive anti-discrimination ordinance, No. 001. This landmark decision comes after a series of campaigns, highlighting the pressing need for safeguarding the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Bangsamoro region, amidst increasing acts of violence and discrimination. HUMAN RIGHTS Caravan headed by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in the Philippines, along with Google, Commission on Human Rights and implemented by Mujer LGBT+ Organisation. The urgency to address the plight of the LGBTQIA+ community was also recognized by the Bangsamoro Parliament through resolutions 524 and 526 in 2021, which called for a thorough investigation into instances of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Emphasizing the significance of these resolutions, they are expected to contribute towards protecting LGBTQIA+ individuals from illegal acts, while preventing discrimination, harassment, and inhumane treatment. Human Rights Training/Workshop lead by Mujer LGBT+ Organisation. Bangsamoro Region has been marked by a series of reported cases of LGBTQIA+ members being subjected to harassment, physical attacks, and even murder in recent years. The passage of this ordinance is seen as a crucial step towards curbing these acts of violence and promoting tolerance, acceptance, and equality within the community.The passage of the ordinance was spearheaded by Panglima Sugala Vice Mayor Dayang Iman Sahali, with support from the Mujer LGBT+ Organization, the Commission on Human Rights, and the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany through their Human Rights Caravan program. The collaborative efforts of these organizations and individuals have been instrumental in ensuring the successful enactment of this legislation along with the members of the Municipal legislative council. This landmark passage was welcomed by the Executive Director of Mujer LGBT+ Organisation Alvin ''Toni Gee'' Fernandez, saying "Our organization is overwhelmed with emotion upon hearing the news of the passage of the landmark law. For years, we have dedicated ourselves tirelessly to create a safe and inclusive space for the Moro LGBTQIA+ community in Bangsamoro. The importance of anti-discrimination ordinances has never been more crucial than now. We firmly believe that these measures serve as a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a future where every Moro individual is valued, respected, and given the opportunity to thrive. This achievement is a testament to the resilience and determination of our community, and we will continue our unwavering commitment to championing equality and justice for all in Bangsamoro." Panglima Sugala Municipal Government Officials with Mujer LGBT+ Organisation What makes this achievement particularly noteworthy is the lack of a national anti-discrimination law in the Philippines, which has remained unresolved in the Congress for the past 24 years. This void has left LGBTQIA+ communities reliant on local legislation for protection and deprived them of their basic human rights for decades. The passage of this ordinance is a strong message that local communities are determined to initiate change and create an inclusive and safe environment for all. Panglima Sugala Municipality - Comprehensive Anti-Discrimination Ordinance No. 001 Under the newly enacted anti-discrimination ordinance, the LGBTQIA+ community in Panglima Sugala will be afforded vital protection against all forms of discrimination, including denial of access to public services, education, employment, and healthcare due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. The ordinance also empowers victims of discrimination to seek legal redress by providing a clear avenue to file complaints and ensuring the enforcement of penalties against offenders. ''Whether people agree with it or not, it is a fact that people with different SOGIEs are humans as well. They deserve protection along with every Filipino in the Philippines. The passage of this ordinance is sending a message of inclusivity and acceptance to my colleagues in the Bangsamoro region. It shows that Panglima Sugala local government recognizes the rights and needs of all sectors of society, including those with varying SOGIEs and those living with HIV. By enacting this ordinance, we hope to set a precedent and inspire other municipalities in the Bangsamoro region to follow suit and implement similar measures to protect the rights of marginalized groups.'' - Vice Mayor Sahali strongly affirmed. Panglima Sugala Vice Mayor Dayang Iman Sahali This historic passage of comprehensive anti-discrimination ordinance No. 001 adds momentum to the ongoing struggle for equal rights in the Bangsamoro region. It is seen as a beacon of hope for the LGBTQIA+ community, setting a precedent for other municipalities and cities in the region to address their own local legislation and embrace inclusivity.While this ordinance is a positive step forward, advocates and allies of the LGBTQIA+ community continue to push for the timely passage of the national anti-discrimination bill in the Philippines Congress. The hope is that such a law will provide comprehensive protection and recognition of the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the country.As society progresses towards acknowledging and respecting the diversity of its citizens, the passage of this anti-discrimination ordinance in Panglima Sugala is a commendable milestone in the long journey towards equal rights and acceptance for all, irrespective of sexual orientation and gender identity. The post Bangsamoro Municipality Passes A Landmark Ordinance On LGBTQIA+ Community appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
One million license plates being produced monthly at LTO
MANILA, Philippines — One million license plates are being produced monthly at the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to solve the agency’s backlog especially on motorcyle plates. “We are now producing one million plates a month. We have dedicated machines that cater only to motor vehicles,” said LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II in a statement. “And, of course, focus on production para sa mas maraming backlog sa plaka ng motorsiklo (for the larger backlog of motorcycle plates),” he noted. READ: LTO-7 exec: Drivers can now get their plastic driver’s licenses LTO has a backlog of 13 million on motorcycle plates. “With the current production rate, we will be able to wipe out the backlog for motorcycles by early 2025,” Mendoza said. “Mas marami kase ito, pero we are confident of addressing it. We are on the right track,” he explained. (Because this is more, we are confident of addressing it.) READ: LTO: Plastic driver’s license cards out now; schedule of renewal announced The agency aims to remove the 80,000 backlog on vehicle plates by the end of November. It also wants to shorten the waiting time for new license plates to 7 to 10 days from the submission of car documents. At the current pace, the procedure takes months. “We estimate that the current demand for motor vehicle plates is around 2,000 vehicles a day. So [multiplied by] two for the front and back plates], so it’s 4,000 a day,” Mendoza said. “We have that capacity. There’s no reason why a buyer who comes to you now will have to wait months to get their plates,” he added. READ: System in place to address backlog in vehicle plates – LTO chief.....»»
PSAC paves way for health deal
The Private Sector Advisory Council from the Healthcare Sector, or PSAC-Health, with the Department of Health, the Commission on Higher Education, and the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc., signed a memorandum of agreement with President Bongbong Marcos as a witness to facilitate employment for underboard BS Nursing students. During their degree, these students will become CHED-certified and work as Clinical Care Associates in healthcare industries. “The Clinical Care Associates Upskilling Program, formalized through the Joint Administrative Order 2023-0001, is a groundbreaking endeavor, and I am confident that it’s a program that will help address the lives of healthcare workers in the country today,” President Marcos said. PSAC-Health has worked with DOH, 55 private hospitals, seven public hospitals, and CHED, along with 19 Higher Education Institutions, to implement the Joint Administrative Order in response to the country’s critical shortage of qualified nurses. “To the underboard nurses out there who are contemplating what to do next: I call on you to apply for this program and embrace the support being wholeheartedly given to you by the government and the institutions we represent,” Marcos added. Strategic interventions implementor “The Commission commits to working with other government agencies and PSAC to implement all the strategic interventions that President Bongbong Marcos approved in a whole-of-government and whole-of-the-nation approach,” said CHED Chairman Julian Prospero de Vera III. “I am confident that this policy would be extremely impactful as it addresses the problems and obstacles and allows our current registered nurses to focus more on high-value-added roles and functions,” PSAC Healthcare Sector Lead Paolo Borromeo said. On 19 July 2023, Chairman Prospero de Vera III of CHED and Secretary of Health Teodoro Herbosa ceremonially signed and launched JAO 2023-0001, also known as the “Implementing Guidelines for the Nurse Workforce Complementation and Upskilling Program for Clinical Care Associates. “This landmark initiative resulted from a collaborative effort between the government and the Private Sector Advisory Council Healthcare Sector Group.” Implementing the JAO showcases the power of government and private sector collaboration. The PSAC-Health has played a vital role in shaping the Nurse Workforce Complementation and Upskilling Program, ensuring its alignment with the vision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration. Leading hospitals and higher education institutions, including Healthway Medical Network, Metro Pacific Hospitals Inc., Mt. Grace Hospitals Inc. and the Philippine Private Hospitals Association Inc. have pledged their commitment to the Clinical Care Associates program by participating in the MOU signing event. Higher education institutions such as Our Lady of Fatima University, Far Eastern University, St. Paul University Philippines, Trinity University of Asia, National Teachers College and National University are also pivotal partners in shaping the future of healthcare in the Philippines through this program. The post PSAC paves way for health deal appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PSAC paves way for agreement with DOH, CHED, and PHAPi with PBBM
The Private Sector Advisory Council from the Healthcare Sector (PSAC-Health), together with the Department of Health (DOH), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc. (PHAPi), signed a memorandum of agreement with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as a witness to facilitate employment for underboard BS Nursing students. During their degree, these students will become CHED-certified and work as Clinical Care Associates in healthcare industries. “The Clinical Care Associates Upskilling Program, formalized through the Joint Administrative Order [2023-0001], is a groundbreaking endeavor, and I am confident that it’s a program that will help address the lives of healthcare workers in the country today,” President Marcos said. PSAC-Health has worked with DOH, 55 private hospitals, seven public hospitals, and CHED, along with 19 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), to implement the Joint Administrative Order (JAO) in response to the country's critical shortage of qualified nurses. “To the underboard nurses out there who are contemplating what to do next: I call on you to apply for this program and embrace the support being wholeheartedly given to you by the government and the institutions we represent,” Marcos added. "The Commission commits to working with other government agencies and PSAC to implement all the strategic interventions that President Bongbong Marcos approved in a whole-of-government and whole-of-the-nation approach," said CHED Chairman Julian Prospero De Vera III. “I am confident that this policy would be extremely impactful as it addresses the problems and obstacles and allows our current registered nurses to focus more on high-value-added roles and functions,” said PSAC Healthcare Sector Lead Paolo Borromeo. On 19 July 2023, Chairman Prospero De Vera III of CHED and Secretary of Health Dr. Teodoro Herbosa ceremonially signed and launched JAO No. 2023-0001, also known as the "Implementing Guidelines for the Nurse Workforce Complementation and Upskilling Program for Clinical Care Associates (CCAs)." This landmark initiative results from a collaborative effort between the government and the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Healthcare Sector Group. Implementing the JAO showcases the power of government and private sector collaboration. The PSAC-Health has played a vital role in shaping the Nurse Workforce Complementation and Upskilling Program, ensuring its alignment with the vision of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.'s administration. Leading hospitals and higher education institutions, including Healthway Medical Network (HMN), Metro Pacific Hospitals Inc. (MPHI), Mt. Grace Hospitals Inc., and the Philippine Private Hospitals Association Inc. (PPHAPI), have pledged their commitment to the Clinical Care Associates program by participating in the MOU signing event. Higher education institutions such as Our Lady of Fatima University, Far Eastern University, St. Paul University Philippines, Trinity University of Asia, National Teachers College, and National University are also pivotal partners in shaping the future of healthcare in the Philippines through this program. [caption id="attachment_191577" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Private Sector Advisory Council Lead Convenor Sabin Aboitiz (left) with President Marcos and PSAC Healthcare Sector leads[/caption] The post PSAC paves way for agreement with DOH, CHED, and PHAPi with PBBM appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Piracy, forgery cases decline in 9 months
The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines reported a downtrend in counterfeit and piracy reports in the first nine months, citing its partnerships and initiatives geared to address the problem......»»
Herbosa no-show, but DOH 2024 budget hurdles Senate Finance panel
The Senate Committee on Finance on Thursday approved the proposed P311.3 billion budget of the Department of Health for the upcoming fiscal year without the attendance of Health Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa. Herbosa skipped the DOH’s budget deliberation, normally led by the agency’s head, days after he failed to secure the approval of the Commission on Appointment. During the budget deliberation, DOH senior officials led by Undersecretary Lilibeth David, former Officer-in-Charge Maria Rosario-Vergeire and Undersecretary Gloria Balboa presented the agency’s proposed budget. Senator Francis Tolentino specifically questioned Herbosa’s absence in the budget deliberation, fearing that the agency is now in an “auto-pilot mode”. Senator Pia Cayetano, who presided over the agency’s budget deliberation, quickly clarified that the DOH is not “headless”. “Actually, all of the senior members of the team approached me a while ago and they acknowledged that, of course, it is a bit of an awkward situation,” Cayetano said. “But as you all know, Usec Dr. Vergeire was the OIC for many years and was very actively exercising her leadership not just in the past year, but even during the time of President Duterte. Dr. Usec. David is the most senior undersecretary. So I’m quite confident in the presentation today that they can answer,” she added. Tolentino explained that he is asking for Herbosa’s presence because “budget presentations would require answers concerning accountability.” “And perhaps the head of the department should be the one doing that. Otherwise, it would be in an auto-pilot mode,” he said. For her part, Senator Loren Legarda also expressed confidence in the senior officials of the DOH. “Let me just say that I’m certain that our very competent Usecs. and Asecs. down the line would be able to communicate the policies of the Secretary who still has to be confirmed,” Legarda said. “I am very confident that they will be able to answer our questions. I do not think that they would divert from any policy of the Secretary or say anything that would be against his policies,” she added. Cyber-attack on PhilHealth Senators also touched on the recent cyber-attack on the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation or PhilHealth. Legarda quizzed PhilHealth officials about the effect of the cyber-attack on the state-run health insurer’s operation, as well as the steps being taken by the agency to prevent similar cases in the future. Responding to the lawmaker’s query, Atty. Eli Dino D. Santos, PhilHealth’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, said the agency has yet to restore its online system. “All transactions are offline, and we've resume operations meaning membership, employer submission, and payment over the counter,” Santos said. “Our benefits availment continues. We have already informed our partner providers that while the system is turned off, they can still submit claims or prepare the submission of claims,” he added. “At present, to confirm the statement of our President, we are set to turn on our systems today, but we are still completing the preventive measures before we turn it on. We are targeting to turn on our PhilHealth website, member portal, as well as the e-claims.” Over the weekend, PhilHealth confirmed reports that there was an “information security incident” on its online system, which prompted them to turn it off as part of its “containment measures”. The Department of Information and Communications Technology previously stated that the agency’s system was attacked by Medusa ransomware. A multinational cyber security software company, Trend Micro, defines “ransomware” as a type of malware that prevents or limits users from accessing a system, either by locking the system’s screen or by locking the users’ files until a ransom is paid. The Medusa ransomware group was demanding $300,000 from PhilHealth in exchange for access to its system. The group threatened to leak the personal information of PhilHealth members if it did not pay the ransom. The state-run health insurer previously stated that it would not give in to the group’s demand. The post Herbosa no-show, but DOH 2024 budget hurdles Senate Finance panel appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DFA confirms Azurin held by Canadian immigration
Former Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. was intercepted by Canadian immigration personnel upon his arrival at Langley Airport in Canada, the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed Wednesday. During the budget deliberation on the DFA’s proposed P23 billion for the upcoming fiscal year in the House of Representatives, House Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan inquired about reports of Azurin being held by Canadian immigration authorities. Responding to Libanan’s query, Nueva Ecija Representative Joseph Violago, who sponsored the DFA’s proposed budget before the plenary, positively affirmed the report. “There seems to be a misunderstanding, misinterpretation of what happened. The Canadian government expressed their regrets due to the miscommunication,” Violago said. He noted that Azurin, who resigned from his post in January, voluntarily went back home after being denied from entering Canada. In a separate statement, DFA spokesperson Teresita Daza said that the Philippine government is “in touch” with Canadian authorities regarding Azurin’s case. “The Department is in touch with Canadian authorities and hopes to get a better understanding of the incident soon,” Daza told reporters in a WhatsApp message to reporters. “While our foreign service posts are ready to assist Filipino travelers, including former government officials, these cases have privacy issues surrounding them,” she added. To recall, Azurin resigned from his post in January following Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos’ appeal to the high-ranking officials of the PNP to resign from their posts as part of the internal cleansing of the organization. Abalos sought the courtesy resignation of almost 1,000 police colonels and generals to address the alleged return of ninja cops in the PNP. The post DFA confirms Azurin held by Canadian immigration appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM signs Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act to create more jobs, boost economic growth
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act on Wednesday, a measure that aims to address the various challenges plaguing the Philippine labor sector. In a ceremonial signing held at the Malacañang Palace, Marcos Jr. thanked both the Senate and the House of Representatives for the timely passage of the bill, one of his administration's priority legislative measures. "The Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act is a significant milestone towards the sustainable and inclusive development of our country," Marcos Jr. said. "It will help us solve the various challenges plaguing our labor sector such as low-quality jobs, skills mismatch, and underemployment among others," he added. The law also addresses the need to update the skills of Filipino workers and promote the use of digital technologies, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Crucially, the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act will establish the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Interagency Council, which will craft a master plan for employment generation and recovery. The council will be chaired by the Director General of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and co-chaired by the Secretaries of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), with representatives from other agencies and from various sectors. All government agencies, including local government units (LGUs), are enjoined to cooperate and coordinate with the council to ensure the effective integration of the plan into their policies and programs. Marcos Jr. directed the council and all concerned government agencies to fast-track the issuance of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the law so that workers and stakeholders can immediately benefit from it. He also enjoined the DOLE and NEDA to harmonize the Labor and Employment Plan 2023-2028 and the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Plan to ensure that all government efforts and resources will be effectively and efficiently managed. Marcos Jr. said that the government will continue to provide support and other incentives To businesses, especially MSMEs such as increased access to financing and capital to promote self-reliance and spur employment generation. Under the law, the government will also incentivize employers, industry stakeholders, and private partners who will facilitate skills development, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing amongst businesses and workers. "With this concerted effort, I am confident that we will not only achieve the goals of this law but we will also realize our vision of Bagong Pilipinas," Marcos Jr. said. Marcos Jr. added that the government knows that Filipinos desire to have decent, stable, and dignified jobs. "With the passage of this law, we are opening a new chapter in our country where there will be sufficient and high-quality employment opportunities for everyone," he said. Marcos Jr. called on everyone to join the government in ensuring the success of the law and in shaping a prosperous and new Philippines. In a separate statement, NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan welcomed the passage of the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act. "We support the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act as it contributes to the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which aims to increase employability, expand access to employment opportunities, and achieve shared labor market governance," Balisacan said. "With the passage of the TPB, this will facilitate stronger coordination and partnership among relevant agencies and stakeholders for the efficient implementation of employment programs," Balisacan added. The TPB Plan shall serve as the State's master plan for employment generation and recovery, aiming to achieve short-term goals and a long-term vision of a "matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na buhay para sa bawat Pilipino". The post PBBM signs Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act to create more jobs, boost economic growth appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
OPAPRU backs ex-rebels’ case expedite
DAVAO CITY — Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Eastern Mindanao director Atty. Elisa D. Evangelista-Lapiña said that they support the proposal of Agusan del Norte Governor Angel Amante to speed up cases of the former rebels or Friends Rescued — a move seen by OPAPRU that would ramp up efforts in helping the FRs’ eventual reintegration in mainstream society. “We certainly back this proposal by the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte. We commend this effort and are ready to offer our full support to make sure that this will be operationalized,” Lapiña said. She added that the OPAPRU will be assisting the provincial government of Agusan del Norte in implementing the mechanism “to lure more New People’s Army members to lay down their weapons and embrace the path to peace.” Lapiña also disclosed that the remaining armed combatants are apprehensive about returning to the folds of the law due to their pending cases in court. “Our goal is to provide a clear and swift path for our FRs. We want to assure them that by choosing peace, the whole-of-nation approach of the government will be of help to them to address both root causes of conflict, social inequality, and historical injustice, among others,” Lapiña said. To date, there are 122 former rebels in Agusan del Norte who have pending cases in court and Lapiña stressed the need to strengthen the coordination between other government agencies, such as the Public Attorney’s Office, the Agusan del Norte government and volunteer legal partners that would actively monitor the progress of the former rebels’ cases, “ensuring that they are treated with the urgency they deserve.” “By closely following legal proceedings, they can identify and address any potential delays or obstacles,” Lapiña said. For his part, Oliver Binancilan, head of OPAPRU’s Davao Area Management Unit, also briefed the group about the Amnesty Program, which he described as a significant stride forward in the government’s efforts to help FRs reintegrate into society. In his presentation, Bancillan stressed the role of Kagawasan 143 Peace Center in actively collaborating with the government to facilitate the amnesty process, ensuring that eligible FRs can benefit from this opportunity for a fresh start. The post OPAPRU backs ex-rebels’ case expedite appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MIF Law nullification: Remote or certain?
In recent months, the Maharlika Investment Fund Law has stirred considerable controversy and debate in the Philippines. Enacted to promote economic development and address pressing issues in the country, this law has faced legal challenges and criticism from various quarters. The question that looms large is whether the Supreme Court will likely nullify this law. The Maharlika Investment Fund Law, also known as Republic Act 11954, was passed by the Philippine Congress and signed into law by the President on 18 July 2023. Its primary objective is establishing a government-managed investment fund to promote economic development, infrastructure projects, and poverty alleviation. The law outlines the creation of the Maharlika Investment Fund, or MIF, and its funding sources, including contributions from government agencies, public enterprises, and certain revenue streams. The MIF Law faced legal challenges from various individuals, groups, and organizations almost immediately after its enactment. Critics have argued that the law violates the Constitution on several grounds, including the separation of powers, the fiscal autonomy of local government units, and the due process clause. Let’s examine these legal arguments in more detail. Critics contend that the law violates the principle of separation of powers by allowing the executive branch to control and manage the funds allocated under the MIF. They argue that the legislature should have greater oversight and control over the allocation and disbursement of public funds. As the Constitution guarantees, local government units or LGUs in the Philippines enjoy fiscal autonomy. Opponents argue that the MIF law encroaches upon this autonomy by diverting funds that could otherwise be allocated to LGUs for their own development projects. Some critics also claim that the law’s provisions lack clarity and transparency, potentially leading to the arbitrary and unfair allocation of funds. They argue that this lack of due process could result in mismanagement and corruption. The Supreme Court’s decision on whether or not to nullify the Maharlika Investment Fund Law will depend on several factors, including legal arguments, political considerations, and the interpretation of the Constitution. The Court will carefully consider the legal arguments presented by both sides. It will assess whether the law indeed violates constitutional principles such as the separation of powers and fiscal autonomy. The strength and persuasiveness of these arguments will be pivotal. It may also examine previous decisions and legal precedents to guide its decision-making process. If there are past cases that bear similarities to the issues raised in the MIF law, these could influence the Court’s stance. While the Court is an independent institution, it operates within a political context. Public opinion and the perception of the law’s impact on society may indirectly influence the Court’s decision, as judges may be mindful of the broader implications of their ruling. The Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Constitution will play a central role. Justices may have differing views on interpreting constitutional provisions, which could lead to a split decision. Offhand, what are the chances then of the MIF Law being nullified? If the legal challenges successfully demonstrate that the law indeed violates fundamental constitutional principles, such as the separation of powers or the fiscal autonomy of LGUs, then the chances of nullification increase. However, if the Court finds that the law is consistent with the Constitution, it will likely be upheld. The political climate and public sentiment may also be influential factors. If there is widespread public support for the law and the government’s efforts to promote economic development, the Court may consider that when rendering its decision. Conversely, if there is strong opposition and concerns about the law’s impact on governance and fiscal management, the Court may be more inclined to scrutinize it closely. The prospects, therefore, of the Supreme Court nullifying the MIF Law are uncertain and will depend on a range of legal, political, and constitutional factors. Therefore, it is essential to remember that the Court’s decision should be based on thoroughly examining the law’s compliance with the Philippine Constitution, rather than political or public pressure. Ultimately, the judiciary’s role is to uphold the rule of law and protect the constitutionality of legislation, ensuring that justice prevails in the Philippines. The post MIF Law nullification: Remote or certain? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
No place for sex cults
The recent discovery of a sex cult in the province of Surigao del Norte has sent shock waves through the nation, turning a light on deep-rooted cultural problems that demand our immediate attention. This disturbing revelation serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for the Department of Justice to actively prevent and prosecute crimes of this nature. The existence of a sex cult highlights the vulnerability of individuals, particularly women and children, who are often the primary victims of such heinous acts. It exposes the darker side of our society, where exploitation, manipulation, and abuse thrive under the guise of secrecy and coercion. This is a wake-up call for all of us to confront these cultural problems head-on and create an environment where the rights and dignity of every individual are safeguarded. The DoJ plays a pivotal role in upholding justice and protecting the welfare of our citizens. It is imperative that the department implements robust preventive measures to identify and dismantle such criminal organizations. This includes strengthening intelligence gathering, conducting thorough investigations, and collaborating with other law enforcement agencies and local communities to ensure no stone is left unturned. Furthermore, prosecution is crucial in deterring potential perpetrators and ensuring justice. The DoJ must allocate adequate resources and support to its prosecutors, equipping them with the necessary tools and training to effectively handle cases involving sex cults and other similar crimes. The legal system must function efficiently and expeditiously to provide closure to the victims, restore their faith in the justice system, and send a strong message that such acts will not be tolerated in our society. Beyond the immediate legal actions, we must address the cultural problems that allow these crimes to persist. This includes fostering a culture of respect, equality, and empowerment where every individual’s rights are upheld and protected. Education and awareness programs should be implemented to promote gender equality, consent, and healthy relationships from an early age. By challenging societal norms that perpetuate misogyny, objectification, and the commodification of human beings, we can work towards eradicating the conditions that enable sex cults and similar criminal activities to thrive. Collaboration between the DoJ, non-government organizations, community leaders, and the media is vital in combating these issues. By joining forces, sharing information, and raising public awareness, we can create a united front against sex cults and other forms of exploitation. Through collective action, we can dismantle these criminal networks, support the survivors, and prevent future occurrences. In conclusion, the discovery of a sex cult in Surigao del Norte is a stark reminder of the pressing cultural problems that our society must confront. As the vanguard of justice, the DoJ must take decisive action to prevent and prosecute crimes of this nature. By implementing preventive measures, strengthening prosecution, and addressing the underlying cultural problems, we can work towards a society that respects and protects the rights and dignity of all its members. Together, let us strive for a future where no individual falls victim to the horrors of exploitation and abuse. The post No place for sex cults appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Escudero to BOC: File charges vs. rice smugglers, hoarders
Senator Francis Escudero challenged the Bureau of Customs to immediately file charges against traders susceptibly involved in smuggling and hoarding rice. Escudero said such illegal activities have caused an artificial shortage of food staples and rice price spikes in recent months. The senator then slammed the BOC for its failure to disclose to the public the “names of traders and operators whose warehouses were raided by government authorities for tons of suspected smuggled rice.” “Ang dami nang raids na ginawa nitong mga nakaraang linggo, bakit hanggang ngayon, wala pang kasong isinasampa sa mga taong sangkot? (You have done so many raid activities this past weeks, why is it until now you haven’t filed cases to anyone involved?),” he said. Escudero stressed the need to file charges and ‘bring these economic saboteurs to court” so it could “serve as a warning” that the Marcos administration is indeed serious in its campaign against smugglers and hoarders. He said the authorities should not stop by just conducting a series of raids, instead, the efforts should showcase strong results. The Republic Act 10845 or the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016 considers large-scale smuggling of agricultural products as economic sabotage, with "at least P1 million worth of sugar, corn, pork, poultry, garlic, onion, carrots, fish, and cruciferous vegetables, in their raw state, or which have undergone the simple processes of preparation and preservation for the market, or a minimum of P10 million worth of rice, as valued by Bureau of Customs." “Why haven't I heard anyone sued for economic sabotage or something? Who owns these warehouses? Who are the people involved?" Escudero asked, citing that the BoC-Port of Zamboanga seized some 42,180 sacks of rice worth P42 million in Barangay San Jose Gusu on 15 September. The local bureau inspected the warehouse on 19 May after receiving information that smuggled rice was being stored in the area. Two weeks prior, the BOC inspected three warehouses in Bulacan and found these stocked with suspected smuggled imported rice worth P505 million. It temporarily sealed and guarded these warehouses located inside the Intercity Industrial Complex in Balagtas, Bulacan. Aside from filing charges, Escudero said the government should also update the public on the development of these cases “in the spirit of transparency.” "Ito ang mga dapat nilang masagot ngayon (this what they should answer now): who oversees the disposition and how will it be disposed? Ano ang gagawin nila sa mga bigas na nakumpiska? (What will happen to confiscated rice?),“ Escudero said. In a news forum last Saturday, BOC Port of Zamboanga chief, Benito Lontok, said the agency is planning to donate the smuggled rice for the implementation of the Department of Agriculture’s Kadiwa Program and the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s assistance programs. However, Lontok said the plan is still “subject to approval” of BoC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio and Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno. 'DA should step up' Meanwhile, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano urged DA to take more proactive measures to address the price hike in rice. Cayetano lamented the prices of rice remain high despite the government’s implementation of a price cap on the product. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier blamed smugglers and hoarders for causing the increasing prices of rice in the country. Hence, issuing the executive Order No. 39 on 31 August, mandated price ceilings for regular-milled rice at P41 per kilogram and well-milled rice at P45 per kilogram. The EO 39 will be implemented nationwide beginning 5 September. Marcos vowed the government would continue going after the rice smugglers and hoarders, including the imposition of penalties for those found guilty of violating the mandated price cap for rice. Cayetano lauded Marcos for this effort and for being a “sincere Agriculture Secretary” with a primary intent on the country’s food situation. However, he stressed that other DA officials should not rely on the Chief Executive for solutions. “The DA to seek long-term solutions to stabilize food prices, emphasizing that temporary measures may not address the root causes of the problem,” he said. The post Escudero to BOC: File charges vs. rice smugglers, hoarders appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
At UN, fading hopes for improving lives on planet
World leaders meeting in New York next week will try to revive key goals meant to improve the lot of humanity by 2030, plans that are in doubt today as hunger, poverty and other crises persist. Leave no one behind In 2015, UN member-states adopted 17 wide-ranging development goals to be met by 2030, which included eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, providing access to drinking water, ensuring gender equality and health care for all. "In thriving economically in the 21st century, you cannot any longer try to do so at the expense of nature, or at the expense of people who are left behind," the head of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Achim Steiner, told AFP. But the 2030 Agenda is in trouble, according to the UN. "The Sustainable Development goals are in peril," the UN said in a report published in July. In order to meet these goals, governments coming together at the UN General Assembly on Monday are slated to commit to "act with urgency... for people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnership, leaving no one behind," according to the draft declaration. Poverty and hunger Progress has been slow and, in some cases, things are even worse now than they were in 2015. The Covid-19 pandemic has halted progress in combating extreme poverty, defined as living on less than $2.15 per day. Far from the hoped-for eradication, at the current rate 575 million people will still be living in such conditions in 2030, most of them in sub-Saharan Africa. And the world has returned to levels of hunger not seen since 2005. Furthermore, 1.1 billion people live in urban areas in slum-like conditions, more than two billion still do not have access to drinking water, 38 out of 1,000 children die before their fifth birthday and the impacts of climate change are increasingly devastating. Debt burden Crippled by various world crises, from Covid-19 to the war in Ukraine, many countries are crumbling under the weight of their debt and do not have the means to change course. "Countries are not able to pursue the development they want right now, but they can only opt for a recovery, where they go for the growth they can get," Steiner said. That, however, is a risky path. "That growth takes us back to the fossil fuel dependency and to greater inequalities, precisely the things that have led to so many tensions, protests on our streets," he added. That is why the draft declaration that will be discussed on Monday talks about reforming international financial institutions, over which, however, the UN has no control. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also called for investing an additional $500 billion per year by 2030 in order to meet the ambitious goals. His plan received support at the recent G20 summit. Vicious or virtuous circle? Getting out of poverty, having access to education, drinking water or clean energy, being in good health and living in peace -- all these development goals are largely interdependent. Global warming and the extreme weather events it causes undermine most of the development goals as they destroy crops, infrastructure and livelihoods. That is why change must be comprehensive, Steiner said.. "We can use $1 to deliver more than $1 of impact. If you address poverty, you can also address access to electricity or vice versa," he said. "If you address access to electricity and combine it with the objective of decarbonization, you can achieve both poverty reduction" and address climate change. Steiner has worked with 95 countries to identify priorities to modify the growth model, such as policies aimed at creating decent jobs and investing in sustainable cities that offer basic services and affordable housing and infrastructure. The post At UN, fading hopes for improving lives on planet appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The Advantage of Adopting the Right Digital Tools for your Business
Amid the uncertainty in customer behaviors and trends from the crisis, this much is clear: updating the business for a digital-first world, led by purpose, is now a must for almost every company. To do so, they must determine where new business value exists in the new normal, what digital business models will capture it, and which tools and behaviors will support the adaptability and resilience that these models require. On this section, we talked to the creators behind the award-winning platform made for businesses like yours. The Digital Advantage Companies need an understanding of 3rd Platform technologies to capitalize on improved decision-making and to deliver enhanced, customized experiences to stakeholders. The rapid acceleration of 3rd Platform technology adoption means that corporates need to actively be looking for ways to improve their operational efficiency and customer service, otherwise, they will be in danger of falling too far behind digitally-native competitors to ever catch up. Efficiency Past recessions show that controlling costs by improving operational efficiency—a task for which digital solutions are perfectly suited for—is more effective in sustaining businesses through financial turbulence than traditional cost-cutting measures alone. The biggest efficiency play is automation. Streamlining operations and automating manual processes result in greater speed, less waste and more focus on revenue-generating activities. The economics of automation is simple: the same work is performed faster and with fewer mistakes, while human capital resources can be redeployed to higher-value tasks or to fill critical gaps. Convenience Company bank accounts are available in any device, the only things you need are internet connection and a few taps on the screen. This brings about an increase in customer satisfaction as they are able to constantly keep track of their account balances and manage the information on their personal profile (i.e. add new mailing address, e-mails, telephone numbers, etc.). In addition to this, there is no need to go to the bank to get checks as they can be instantly sent via email. 24/7 Reliability Online banking services are available 24/7 all year round, even on weekends. There is no need to line up and wait for the bank to open in order to conduct certain operations. This is a huge advantage that comes with digital solutions Security With all the recent news about data breaches, you might be wondering about the security of mobile and online banking. Security is top priority for banks when choosing whether or not to offer online banking. All banks use “Pentagon-grade” encryption technology and sophisticated firewalls. Mandatory security upgrades are required by bank regulators, so you can be confident that keeping your information secure is one of your bank’s utmost priorities. As digital transactions increase and productivity grow, companies must take proactive steps to protect their data privacy and security and adopt models that give them governance over their data. Today’s Platform Driven Solutions Self-service account management, bills payment and electronic fund transfers are considered the basic banking functions that each business should have. Account management allows viewing of account balances and transaction history without going to the bank. All these were made easy and accessible, by just logging into UnionBank’s The Portal app. Bills Payment, on the other hand, gives businesses access to a large list of billers. They can pay their water, electricity, telco, and other utilities online. BIR ePayment is also available, allowing users to pay taxes online. If the company is an accounting firm, they can also pay for their client’s taxes on The Portal app. Electronic fund transfers save companies time and reduce their risk exposure. Just upload the batch crediting file on the platform and it automatically disburses it to their recipients. Clients can also set up their recipients in UnionBank Business Banking so they receive email and SMS notifications every time they are credited. All these are made possible without stepping inside a branch. Batch Electronic Funds Transfer is also now made available for UnionBank Transfers and PESONet. This enables the streamlining of bulk account to account transfers to another UnionBank account or to other bank accounts. This has highlighted the ease and convenience of going digital to corporate clients versus processing transactions through the traditional way of banking over-the-counter or paying via cheques. Going beyond the basic functions of a normal digital banking tool, The Portal’s self-enrollment feature allows businesses to conveniently self-enroll their nominated accounts and users through the simple enrollment steps. Once completed, access to The Portal is granted and clients may enjoy the convenience of processing their funds transfer instructions online. In addition, there is an option to initiate the enrollment of the beneficiary accounts individually or in bulk. This can be essential for clients that need a payee maintenance feature to ensure that the initiated transactions are only credited to enrolled account. With the convenient, hassle-free and straight-through processing in The Portal, businesses can easily push fund transfers in the comfort of their own homes or offices. This pandemic serves as a widespread test case for the effectiveness of these digital solutions, many of which will be permanent fixtures and lead to long-term changes for many businesses. Organizations that embrace digital solutions have greater resiliency in the face of adversity and are way ahead of the competition, which will enable them to recover faster and pivot from playing defense to chasing growth. While many believe it is too idealistic to have a good workplace culture and excellent compensation, many jobseekers significantly consider these two factors when applying for a job, according to two studies. The 2021 Employee Experience Survey by Willis Towers Watson reported that 89 percent of respondents believe a positive employee experience is a crucial driver of engagement, while a 2023 survey from the online recruitment platform JobStreet found that 53 percent of Filipino job seekers would like to know the salary range offered while still in the recruitment process. Aside from great benefits and compensation, employees in the IT industry pointed out that a good work culture and environment, as well as training programs, are the top priorities of job seekers. Vanessa Liwanag, business development director at Yondu, acknowledged the company’s role in her growth, “Yondu has helped me develop my leadership, decision-making, and communication skills through its effective leadership training programs. The company also helped me grow personally because of its hybrid setup. This allows me to have a work-life balance. I can still care for my family and health while contributing to the organization.” Leather, who specializes in securing networks from vulnerabilities, noted that training programs are essential as trends continuously evolve. IT professionals need to keep up in order to be efficient. Steph, a software solutions engineer, echoed this, adding that since the industry is highly competitive and fast-paced, getting equipped with the right skills and knowledge is essential. Grace, a malware researcher, said that one advantage in the IT field is that since it’s a broad industry, there is always much to learn and room for improvement. Yondu, an IT solutions company wholly owned by Globe, offers all these benefits and compensation, a good working environment, and training programs to Yondudes, a nickname for its employees. Competitive pay and benefits are OK for Yondu as the company ensures this through regularly benchmarking market data and best practices. There are also tailor-fitted rewards programs according to talent segments. Yondu also ensures its employees remain competitive and well-equipped by industry standards through various training, reskilling, and upskilling programs to hone their skills in the constantly changing tech industry. Despite the fast-paced sector continuously evolving, Yondu still values work-life balance and provides programs to support Yondudes’ well-being further. “What sets Yondu apart from other organizations is its genuine focus on understanding and supporting its employees,” said Javen Babac, lead application support specialist at Yondu. “The company recognizes that employees perform their best when they feel valued and supported, and this philosophy sets Yondu apart by fostering a positive and inclusive work environment. The organization’s commitment to understanding its employees and providing the necessary resources demonstrates its dedication to employee well-being and sets a strong foundation for professional growth and job satisfaction.” The post The Advantage of Adopting the Right Digital Tools for your Business appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»