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FPRRD opposes disguised Charter change initiative
Former President Rodrigo R. Duterte has vehemently opposed the disguised People’s Initiative for Charter change, denouncing the cash-for-signature campaign as repugnant and a disgraceful act during a YouTube interview with Banateros Brothers on January 22, 2024. Duterte emphasized his disapproval of the initiative, urging for it to be halted, particularly criticizing the payment of individuals to sign the documents. He warned that such actions could lead to a new Constitution that might destroy the nation and open avenues for political abuses. Duterte stressed the importance of democracy in the Philippines, asserting that those seeking to remain in power should go through the electoral process. He highlighted that a well-performing and non-corrupt individual would retain power, while those with poor performance would be ousted through the electoral process. Expressing satisfaction with the current Constitution, Duterte argued that it has contributed to stability, reducing conflicts with groups like the New People's Army (NPA). He strongly advised against meddling with the Constitution, cautioning that it would only bring trouble to the country. Duterte pledged active opposition to the initiative, stating that he would campaign against it. Additionally, residents of Calinan District, Vice President Sara Duterte, and Representatives Isidro Ungab and Paolo Pulong Duterte have also voiced opposition to the People's Initiative for Charter Change. Margarita Atty. Migs Nograles, the representative of the Pwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Partylist, alleged to have started the cha-cha signature campaign, has yet to issue an official statement on the matter as of the latest update. Related stories include the denouncement of alleged `vote buying’ in signing the petition for Cha-cha by Davao City lawmakers, Vice President Duterte's condemnation of the cash-for-signature drive, and a prayer rally against PI’s Cha-cha on Jan 28......»»
WATCH: Star Magic A-listers sing Pure Imagination at Johnny Manahan s birthday
Star Magic A-listers performed Gene Wilder's "Pure Imagination" at the recent birthday celebration of Sparkle consultant Johnny Manahan. .....»»
10th ID bashes Canadian gov’t for travel advisory vs Mindanao
The 10th Infantry Agila Division (10ID) of the Philippine Army criticized the Canadian government for issuing a travel advisory against all parts of Mindanao, which includes their area of responsibility. Major Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson for the 10th ID, emphasized that the regions under their jurisdiction are peaceful and free from terrorism and violent threats, contrary to the Canadian embassy's advisory. The division oversees 12 provinces, seven cities, and 72 municipalities in various parts of Mindanao. Tito expressed bewilderment at the basis of the travel advisory, asserting that the Canadian government lacks awareness of the actual situation on the ground. He highlighted the peaceful nature of the entire Davao Region throughout 2023, with no recorded incidents of terrorism or insurgency. Despite the exclusion of Davao City from the advisory, Tito noted that the region would still be impacted. The Canadian embassy's advisory warned its citizens to avoid visiting Mindanao due to ongoing terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, high levels of violence, and encounters between rebel forces and government security authorities. Specific provinces and regions were singled out for caution or non-essential travel, including Northern Mindanao, Soccsksargen, and Eastern Mindanao. Contrary to the advisory, the 10th ID has been actively weakening and eliminating guerilla forces within its jurisdiction as part of the Philippine Army's efforts to establish an insurgency-free zone. In fact, on October 27, 2023, the Davao Region celebrated its first anniversary as an insurgency-free region in the Philippines. This dispute has led to other related stories, including the Chamber's intention to engage in discussions with the Canadian government regarding the travel advisory, as well as refutations from the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and celebrations of the Davao Region's insurgency-free status by the Regional Peace and Order Council. In summary, the 10th ID vehemently opposes the Canadian government's travel advisory, citing the peaceful and secure nature of the regions under their jurisdiction, and highlighting the significant strides made in eradicating insurgency in the Davao Region......»»
Continue serving with care, compassion, PBBM tells DSWD
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of serving the public with care and compassion during the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) 73rd anniversary celebration. He commended the DSWD for its continuous efforts in providing aid to disaster victims and the disadvantaged sectors. President Marcos urged the DSWD to treat the poor and vulnerable with kindness and empathy, highlighting the agency's role in uplifting communities. He also noted the significant increase in the agency's budget, particularly for programs such as Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), senior pension, food catering operations, and the food stamps program. President Marcos emphasized that the DSWD's programs are designed to offer a hand up rather than a handout, aiming to empower individuals and families to improve their circumstances. He underscored the government's commitment to dignified giving and support for those in need, emphasizing the agency's role in providing assistance while promoting self-sufficiency......»»
Philippine partners with UK’s creative cities
The Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC), led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), has forged partnerships with three of Scotland’s United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) – designated creative cities as part of efforts to support Philippine cities’ aspiring for creative city designation......»»
Getting Over a Creative Block
Sometimes, you may find it difficult to start anything. As a writer, graphic designer, or any creative, staring at a blank page and not knowing where to start can be frustrating. Well, you, my friend, are experiencing a creative block. A creative block is a phenomenon in which people struggle to come up with new […].....»»
20 Caraga artists honored in inaugural festival
BUTUAN CITY (MindaNews / 22 February)—Twenty artists from the Caraga Region were honored on Tuesday in the inaugural Creative Caraga Festival aimed to acknowledge and celebrate the accomplishments of outstanding creatives who originate from and are based in the region across diverse fields within the creative industries. Named the Creative Caraga Awards, this is a […].....»»
Solo parents to get P1K monthly subsidy
The Local Solo Parents' Ordinance, recently approved by the 20th City Council of Davao City, promises a monthly subsidy of approximately P1,000 for eligible beneficiaries. Councilor Tricia Ann Villafuerte highlighted the ordinance's significance in providing vital support to solo parents and their children, as there are approximately 6,000 solo parents in Davao City. This ordinance is an adaptation of the national law, Republic Act 8972, customized to address the unique needs of solo parents in the city. It aims to meet the essential needs of mothers and their children, including school supplies, consultation, laboratory diagnostics, and financial assistance, such as medical, death, and burial aid. Additionally, solo parents will receive a monthly monetary subsidy of P1,000 and are entitled to a 10 percent discount on select basic commodities, similar to senior citizens and Persons with Disability (PWD). To qualify for the benefits, applicants must submit necessary documents and meet specific criteria, while disqualification grounds include changes in civil status and provision of necessary assistance by the other biological parent as per the Family Code of the Philippines. It's important to note that individuals under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) are ineligible for the Local Solo Parents' Ordinance......»»
Increasing demand for electric vehicles
The Department of Energy (DOE) in Mindanao has observed a growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs). Engr. Adrian Mel B. Delola, a Science Research Specialist II at DOE Mindanao Field Office, discussed this trend during the Kapehan sa Dabaw on January 15, 2024. He highlighted the impact of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (Evida Law), implemented on April 15, 2022, which has contributed to the increasing interest in EVs. Delola acknowledged that the current cost of EVs is a concern but expressed optimism that as demand rises, the number of charging stations will increase and the cost of units will subsequently decrease. He also addressed the presence of hybrid models in key cities in Mindanao and the challenge of limited car dealerships facilitating their distribution. Additionally, Delola touched on the use of e-trikes, classified as light EVs under RA 11697, and the regulations regarding their weight and use on national highways. The DOE is working with various agencies to address issues related to the registration and use of e-trikes. Sellers are also advising consumers on the proper use of e-trikes for private purposes and cautioning against their use on national highways......»»
Exploring a world of creativity
FROM portraits to makeup to cosmetic tattoos and clothing, 26-year-old Dabawenya artist Goldie Siglos, known for her brand Bulawan (which means ‘gold’ in Bisaya), explores a diverse array of creative expressions. Goldie attended Brokenshire College of Toril for her basic education before pursuing a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts Major in Fashion Design at the Philippine Women's College......»»
Baste remarks disturbing, inappropriate – Abalos
Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. has described as disturbing and inappropriate the remarks made by Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte and other local officials during a prayer rally in Cebu......»»
Creative economy grows to P1.72 trillion
The value of the country’s creative economy rose by 6.8 percent in 2023 from a year ago as the sector employed more people, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority......»»
Delivery drivers urge Mayor Baste for business permit exemption
Title: Delivery Drivers Seek Exemption from Business Permit Requirement A group of delivery drivers in Davao is urging Mayor Sebastian Duterte to exempt them from the mandatory business permits. The drivers, including those from various delivery apps such as Grab and FoodPanda, are concerned about the financial burden imposed by the business permits, which range from P2,000 to P6,000. They argue that this requirement is unique to Davao City among all cities and provinces in the Philippines. Grab rider Rolando Atico emphasized the need for solidarity among all delivery drivers, regardless of the app they work for. He urged fellow drivers to support each other, as the financial impact may extend beyond just Grab and FoodPanda. Atico also requested Mayor Duterte to reconsider the requirement and reinstate the previous occupational permit, which only cost P125. The group is facing a 30-day deadline to obtain the business permits, and they are citing financial constraints as a reason for their request for an extension. Failure to comply could result in their removal from the delivery platforms, jeopardizing their livelihoods. Additionally, they are advocating for changes to Davao City's Revenue Code, proposing a model similar to Cebu City, where only an occupational permit is required. The drivers are also calling for an inquiry into the lack of transparency and unilateral actions of food delivery companies, particularly concerning rider capitalization and financial concerns. They believe that a thorough investigation will help ensure fairness and equity in their financial obligations and working relationship with the delivery companies. Maribel Paguican, the Business Bureau officer-in-charge, stated that non-certified delivery riders categorized as service contractors must obtain a business permit. She mentioned two permits for occupational and business activities, with a discounted structure for delivery riders. However, concerns have been raised about increased taxes, potentially ranging from P3,000 to P6,000, along with an additional tax on top of the declared income of P1,400. The delivery drivers' plea for exemption from the business permit requirement reflects their concerns about the financial impact and the potential threat to their livelihoods. Their call for solidarity and support from fellow drivers highlights the urgency of the situation. This story sheds light on the challenges faced by delivery drivers in Davao and the implications of the business permit requirement on their financial well-being. It also underscores their efforts to seek fairness and equity in their working relationship with the authorities and delivery companies......»»
Uncertainty looms over Davao-Samal Bridge project amid RoW hurdles
The construction of the Samal Island-Davao City Connector (SIDC), also known as the Davao-Samal Bridge project, has faced numerous setbacks due to right-of-way (ROW) acquisition challenges. The project was halted on January 3, 2024, due to issues with landowners near a pier in Lanang at Davao City, leading to delays in the project's implementation. While there have been conflicting statements regarding the project's status, the National Economic and Development Authority-Davao Region (Neda-Davao) aims to complete the detailed engineering plans for the substructure of the west land via dock once the Deed of Transfer Possession in Davao City is released. However, ROW issues continue to persist. Despite these challenges, the project is still considered a priority and is included in the Davao Region Development Plan (DRDP) for 2023–2028. The project is funded through China’s Official Development Assistance with an estimated budget of P23.04 billion, and negotiations with the Philippine government are ongoing with a target completion date in 2027. The uncertainty surrounding the project's timeline remains as ROW hurdles persist, impacting the much-anticipated toll-free four-lane concrete exodus bridge spanning a 3.98-kilometer distance......»»
Sara reveals she will run in next polls
Summary: Sara Duterte, the Vice President and Education Secretary, announced her intention to run in the next election during a visit to flood victims in Barangay Bago Gallera. In a Facebook Live video, she mentioned that her brothers, Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte and First District Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, may not run in the next election, prompting her decision to campaign. However, she did not specify the position she would be running for. The upcoming election will be the 2025 midterm senatorial elections for senators, congressmen, and local officials, with the presidential national elections scheduled for 2028. Duterte also emphasized the importance of barangay development councils in times of calamity and stressed the need for disaster resilience and awareness among barangay officials and children. Additionally, she highlighted the significance of safety and security, urging trust in security personnel and caution against scammers and swindlers. Duterte also emphasized the importance of education for the younger generation and the equal opportunities it provides. This announcement comes amidst her visits to various areas in the Philippines, where she has been extending aid and addressing pertinent issues such as disaster resilience and community safety......»»
Uncommon Courage
Take me to the king, and I will interpret his dream for him. Daniel 2:24.....»»
The power of words and reading
My favorite quotation on reading and books is from former US president Barack Obama, who said in a 2017 interview on what books mean to him: “…(reading) reintroduced me to the power of words as a way to figure out who you are and what you think, and what you believe, and what’s important, and to sort through and interpret this swirl of events that is happening around you every minute.”.....»»
DTI to hosts competitiveness, creative summit on April 25
DTI to hosts competitiveness, creative summit on April 25.....»»
Unleashing creativity: 6 spots in Cebu to help get your creative juices flowing
Unleashing creativity: 6 spots in Cebu to help get your creative juices flowing.....»»
Pursuing art, navigating challenges
Feeling overworked, underpaid, and unappreciated, 22-year-old creative Vince Joseph W. Lim opens up about the challenges he faces in the bustling creative scene of Davao City. A graduate of Ateneo de Davao University with a degree in Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Lim highlights the struggle of balancing between earning a living and pursuing his passion for art out of his pocket......»»