PNP chief says police ready to assist vaccination program
“We have been preparing for this for a long time in response to the PNP's national vaccination program. We have instructed all local police commanders to contact our LGUs to immediately meet the needs of local governments, whether it is security or manpower that will inject the COVID-19 vaccine to our countrymen,” Eleazar said in Filipino......»»
New DCPO chief pledges technology-driven approach
THE new director of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) underscored the utilization of technology to streamline their operations......»»
New DCPO chief to focus on personnel morale, asset optimization
THE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) bid farewell to PCol. Alberto Lupaz and welcomed its new City Director, PCol. Richard Bad-ang, in a turn-over ceremony at the Camp Captain Domingo E. Leonor on March 22......»»
Missing man found dead in Barangay Bonbon
CEBU CITY, Philippines — A 50-year-old man who had been missing for two weeks was found dead in Sitio Golivas, Barangay Bonbon, Cebu City. The victim was identified as Adriano Fuentes Durano, a resident of Kiniasan, Barangay Bonbon, Cebu City. Police Major Philip John Libres, chief of Malubog Police Community Precinct, stated that on Tuesday.....»»
17 killed as truck loaded with sand collides with passenger van
COTABATO CITY (MindaNews /25 March) – Seventeen persons were killed when a truck loaded with sand collided with a passenger van in Antipas, North Cotabato Monday noon. Captain Godofredo Tupas, Chief of Police of Antipas town said the collision happened along a curve at the boundary of Barangay Greenhills and Lohong at 12:48 p.m. The van […].....»»
Cops on heightened alert, NLEX ready for Lenten break
Police units across the country are on heightened alert starting tomorrow, as part of security preparations for the safety of the public during the Holy Week break......»»
Probe ordered on fireman’s ‘promotion for sale’ scam
Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos on Thursday ordered a thorough and deeper probe on a fireman who was accused of being involved in a “lateral promotion for sale” scam at the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). The suspect, Fire Officer 1 Ramces Paul Benipayo of the Muntinlupa Fire Station, was collared by undercover operatives on Wednesday, 25 October, in an entrapment operation shortly after receiving P200,000 from his alleged victim. Policemen arrested Benipayo after accepting P200,000 in marked money from his classmate, a BFP firefighter from Western Visayas, whom he promised to assist in getting a promotion within the bureau in exchange for money. Benipayo’s modus is to convince his would-be victims to give him money in exchange for non-existent promotion which will allegedly be facilitated by his “contacts” in the BFP, which of course would never materialize. “I have been briefed on the case of FO1 Benipayo and I could say that what he did was unacceptable,” said Abalos. The BFP together with the Philippine National Police is an attached agency of the DILG. This, as Abalos also ordered a thorough probe on the case and background of Benipayo to determine if he has cohorts at the BFP who could be working with him. Abalos’ order came after BFP intelligence and investigation division director Chief Supt. Gilbert Dolot reported that three more complainants came forward and accused the suspect of also duping them using the same modus operandi. “We will not tolerate this kind of illegal activity. That’s why I’ve already ordered the PNP to work closely with the BFP to get to the bottom of this issue and prosecute everyone involved,” Abalos pointed out. “Walang puwang sa gobyerno natin at sa DILG or sa BFP for that matter ang mga katulad niya,” he continued. Benipayo had undergone inquest proceedings before the Muntinlupa Prosecutor’s Office and was slapped with complaints for violating Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and estafa in relation to RA 10175, also known as the cybercrime prevention law. He is currently detained at the CIDG detention facility. The head of the CIDG’s anti-organized crime unit, Col. Reynaldo Lizardo, said Benipayo initially told them his cohort is with the BFP. . The post Probe ordered on fireman’s ‘promotion for sale’ scam appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Police warn against speculation in US synagogue leader’s murder
The politically active leader of a US synagogue was found dead with stab wounds outside her home on Saturday, as police cautioned against speculation over the motive for the murder. Police requested FBI assistance in investigating the murder of Samantha Woll, 40, who presided over the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue, which serves metropolitan Detroit. Police Chief James White urged "that everyone remain patient" while the investigation is underway despite "many unanswered questions." "It is important that no conclusions be drawn until all of the available facts are reviewed," White said in a statement. "An update ... will be forthcoming tomorrow." The murder came amid escalating tensions in Jewish and Muslim communities across the United States over the Israel-Hamas conflict that has taken thousands of lives this month. Emergency personnel found Woll dead "with multiple stab wounds to her body," police said. A trail of blood led officers to Woll's nearby home, "which is where the crime is believed to have occurred." The motive in the killing "is unknown," a police statement added. The Detroit office of the FBI told AFP in an email that it "will assist the Detroit Police Department as requested." "We are shocked and saddened to learn of the unexpected death of Samantha Woll, our Board President," the synagogue posted on its Facebook page. "At this point, we do not have more information." Woll, who led the synagogue since 2022, was also active in Democratic Party affairs, working for US congresswoman Elissa Slotkin and on the campaign of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, the Detroit Free Press said. "I am shocked, saddened, and horrified to learn of Sam's brutal murder. Sam was as kind a person as I've ever known," Nessel posted on X, formerly Twitter. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said he was "devastated" to learn of Woll's death. "Just weeks ago, I shared a day of joy with Sam at the dedication of the newly renovated Downtown Synagogue," Duggan posted on X. "It was a project she successfully led with great pride and enthusiasm." Slotkin, who served as a CIA officer before entering Congress, said Woll sought to build "understanding across faiths, bringing light in the face of darkness." The Free Press said Woll had been active in a grassroots organization aimed at building ties between young Muslims and Jews. The post Police warn against speculation in US synagogue leader’s murder appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos pays tribute to mentors
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday paid tribute to the heroes of children’s education as National Teachers’ Month came to a close. Marcos made a statement on his Facebook page a day after Malacañang held the third edition of the “Konsyerto Sa Palasyo” (Concert at the Palace), which is dedicated to the country’s teachers. The free concert was especially for teachers, and many came to enjoy the music and take a break from their work. “As we thank you for all that you do, we also continue to work harder to improve your lives,” Marcos said. “The Marcos-Duterte administration will remain hard at work in addressing the needs of our schools, our teachers, and our students,” he added. During a pre-recorded message shown on “Konsyerto sa Palasyo” on Sunday night, Marcos said he still respects teachers. Even though he is now the Chief Executive, Marcos said he would still call female teachers “Ma’am” when he went to schools. Marcos, a La Salle Greenhills alumnus, remembered very well the time he spent with Miss Reyes, one of his first teachers in school. He then said that Miss Reyes had taught him how to treat teachers like he does now. “During Grade 1 to Grade 2, I had a teacher who became fond of me and I became her teacher’s pet. She always helped me with my studies,” Marcos said. “She was very, very helpful to me outside of school. She would assist me when I needed tutorials, and she would give me groceries and prayer books. I can’t forget her,” Marcos added. He went on to express that Miss Reyes had been his source of inspiration, influencing how he respects teachers to this day. The post Marcos pays tribute to mentors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM honors ‘heroes of children’s education’
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday paid tribute to the "heroes of children's education" as National Teachers' Month came to a close. Marcos made a statement on his Facebook page a day after Malacañang held the third edition of the "Konsyerto Sa Palasyo" (Concert at the Palace), which is dedicated to the country's teachers. The free concert was especially for teachers, and many came to enjoy the music and take a break from their work. "As we thank you for all that you do, we also continue to work harder to improve your lives," Marcos said. "The Marcos-Duterte administration will remain hard at work in addressing the needs of our schools, our teachers, and our students," he added. During a pre-recorded message shown on Konsyerto sa Palasyo on Sunday night, Marcos said he still respects teachers. Even though he is now the Chief Executive, Marcos said he would still call female teachers "Ma'am" when he went to schools. Marcos, a La Salle Greenhills alumnus, remembered very well the time he spent with Miss Reyes, one of his first teachers in school. He then said that Miss Reyes had taught him how to treat teachers like he does now. "During Grade 1 to Grade 2, I had a teacher who became fond of me and I became her teacher's pet. She always helped me with my studies," Marcos said. "She was very, very helpful to me outside of school. She would assist me when I needed tutorials, and she would give me groceries and prayer books. I can't forget her," Marcos added. He went on to express that Miss Reyes had been his source of inspiration, influencing how he respects teachers to this day. The post PBBM honors ‘heroes of children’s education’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DOJ to help 400 Filipino job-seekers duped in Italy
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla yesterday assured the 400 Filipinos allegedly victimized by an Italy-based immigration consultancy firm that the Department of Justice will take the necessary steps to help them. “Affidavits will be taken so they can properly complain and put together a case. Whatever it is, we will help them draw out the truth,” said Remulla, adding that he has assigned Chief State Counsel Dennis Chan "to come up with a few draft affidavits so we can assist these people para di na sila maghahanap ng abogado.” Earlier, some 400 Filipinos who said they were duped into shelling out large sums of money in exchange for employment opportunities in Italy found an ally in Senator Risa Hontiveros who filed a resolution Wednesday calling for an investigation into the alleged recruitment scam. The Daily Tribune has run a series on the alleged scam by Alpha Assistenza SRL, an Italy-based immigration consultancy firm. In Senate Resolution 814, Hontiveros detailed the alleged fraudulent scheme of the immigration consultancy firm that preyed on Filipinos dreaming of working in the European country. “It is alleged that Alpha Assistenza SRL provided over 400 Filipino 'victims' with falsified Nulla Osta, a document issued by Italian immigration authorities authorizing a non-European Union national to apply for a work visa at an Italian embassy or consulate,” the resolution read. “The falsified Nulla Osta resulted in the rejection of the victims’ applications when the said documents were presented to the Italy Visa Application Center (VIA PIASI Center),” it added. The senator said the Filipino applicants were met at the VIA PIASI Center located in Makati City by a Philippine agent designated in electronic messages by Krizelle Respicio, Alpha Assistenza SRL’s chief executive officer and immigration consultant. She said the State is mandated by the Constitution to afford full protection to laborers, both local and overseas, organized and unorganized, and to promote full employment and equality of employment opportunities for all. Hontiveros added: “Because of the principle of territoriality, our statutes are generally only effective within Philippine territory; and there is thus an urgent need to protect Filipinos from possible recruitment perpetuated by companies based overseas.” In an interview on Daily Tribune's digital show "Usapang OFW" last week, several complainants, namely Vanessa Antonio, Enrique Catilo and Apple Cabasis, said Alpha Assistenza SRL headed by Filipino co-CEOs Krizelle Respicio and Frederick Dutaro may have duped more than 400 Filipinos. They also accused Consul General Elmer Cato of ignoring their grievances against Alpha Assistenza SRL. The post DOJ to help 400 Filipino job-seekers duped in Italy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DSWD: Gov’t may still grant P15K subsidy to El Niño-hit farmers
The Marcos administration has not ruled out granting P15,000 in cash subsidy to farmers who will be severely affected by the El Niño phenomenon, the Department of Social Welfare and Development announced on Thursday. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said the agency is in talks with the Department of Agriculture for other interventions after the Sustainable Livelihood Program payout of cash aid to micro rice retailers and sari-sari store owners selling rice. The DSWD chief earlier said the SLP payout for sari-sari store owners has already started, following Malacanang’s imposition of a price cap on regular and well-milled rice through Executive Order No. 39. "We are coordinating with the Department of Agriculture to make sure the intervention will arrive in the coming days. Right now, we are finishing with the small rice retailers. I am a hundred percent sure the president will want to see the shortlist with the department," Gatchalian said. He added that the DSWD can adopt the SLP-cash aid payout mechanism similar to the subsidy for small and micro rice retailers where the list of SLP beneficiaries was provided by the Department of Trade and Industry. The DSWD chief said the DA will be the one to identify the SLP farmer-beneficiaries most affected by the El Niño phenomenon. Aside from SLP, the DSWD launched Project LAWA, or the Local Adaptation to Water Access, in Davao de Oro, Ifugao, and Antique last 31 August to help improve the resiliency of communities affected by the El Niño phenomenon. Project LAWA is an early action plan of the government to mitigate the impacts of drought and dry spells by establishing small farm reservoirs. To assist the poor, vulnerable and marginalized families of Indigenous Peoples, farmers, and fisherfolk, the DSWD, through its cash-for-training and –work program, will provide financial support as an alternative income in exchange for the work rendered by the beneficiaries while constructing the alternative water resources. The post DSWD: Gov’t may still grant P15K subsidy to El Niño-hit farmers 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......»»
Alleged recruitment scam in Italy reaches Senate
The alleged recruitment scam, facilitated by the Italy-based immigration consultancy firm, Alpha Assistenza SRL, has already reached the Senate. In filing proposed Senate Resolution No. 814, Senator Risa Hontiveros called for an investigation, in aid of legislation, into the alleged recruitment activities conducted by the Alpha Assistenza SRL. In her resolution, Hontiveros detailed the alleged fraudulent scheme of the immigration consultancy firm which has preyed on Filipinos who are dreaming of working in Italy, which was first exposed by the Daily Tribune. “It is alleged that Alpha Assistenza SRL provided over 400 Filipino “victims” with falsified Nulla Osta, a document issued by Italian immigration authorities authorizing a non-European Union national to apply for a work visa at an Italian embassy or consulate,” the resolution read. “The falsified Nulla Osta resulted in the rejection of the victims’ applications when the said documents were presented to the Italy Visa Application Center (VIA PIASI Center),” it added. She continued: “The Filipino applicants were met at the VIA PIASI Center located in Makati City by a Philippine agent designated in electronic messages by Krizelle Respicio, Alpha Assistenza SRL’s Chief Executive Officer and Immigration Consultant.” Hontiveros also said that the “complainants alleged that they had paid the company ‘large sums of money’ to facilitate their relatives’ travel to Italy for work.” “The State is mandated by the Constitution to afford full protection to laborers, both local and overseas, organized and unorganized, and to promote full employment and equality of employment opportunities for all,” she said. “Because of the principle of territoriality, our statutes are generally only effective within Philippine territory; and there is thus an urgent need to protect Filipinos from possible recruitment perpetuated by companies based overseas,” she added. ‘Aware’ Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs said it is aware of the alleged recruitment scam that victimized at least 400 Filipinos both from the Philippines and Italy. In an interview with Daily Tribune, DFA spokesperson Teresita Daza denied the alleged non-action of the Philippine Consulate General in Milan in the victim’s complaints against the supposed scam. “The DFA is aware of the reports,” Daza said. “The Philippine Consulate General in Milan is acting on the complaints.” Victims, who reached out to the Daily Tribune’s digital program, “Usapang OFW,” accused Consul General Elmer Cato of sitting on their complaints against Alpha Assistenza SRL. Daza said the number of victims of the alleged recruitment scam may be higher or lower than the previously reported 400 Filipinos. “The numbers are still being verified,” she said. In a recent interview over the Usapang OFW, the complainants, namely, Vanessa Antonio, Enrique Catilo, and Apple Cabasis, said that the Alpha Assistenza, headed by its Filipino co-CEOs Krizelle Respicio and Frederick Dutaro, may have duped more than 400 Filipinos. DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs Eduardo de Vega also denied allegations that Cato had sat on the Filipino communities’ complaints. De Vega said the Philippine Consulate General in Milan received a report on 31 August, and an investigation into the matter is ongoing. “They were interviewing victims and working on cases,” he said in a separate interview. Asked if the DFA is considering making Cato inhibited due to the accusations of the victims, De Vega said: “We are meeting him personally.” The DFA official also noted that they are coordinating with the Department of Migrant Workers and the Migrant Workers Office in Milan on how to proceed with the case. “The complaint is really to be filed with Italian authorities but our Consulate in Milan should assist them,” he said. The Daily Tribune has sought comments from the Italian Embassy in Manila but they had yet to respond as of press time. The post Alleged recruitment scam in Italy reaches Senate appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DFA confirms Azurin’s awry Canada issues
The Department of Foreign Affairs shed light on reports that retired Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. had encountered issues with Canadian immigration. During the House 2024 budget deliberations Wednesday, House Minority Leader Rep. Marcelino Libanan asked Nueva Ecija Rep. Joseph Violago, DFA budget sponsor, if the reports were accurate. Violago confirmed that Azurin encountered issues but added that the Canadian government regretted the “misunderstanding and miscommunication.” Azurin voluntarily returned to the country after traveling to Canada. The DFA was unable to assist him since it was a personal trip. Due to confidentiality issues, the Canadian government has yet to submit an official report to the Philippine government on the incident. “This incident happened a few days ago. General Azurin voluntarily went to Canada and he suddenly returned to the country,” Violago said during the budget debates. Azurin denied he was deported and blamed his former colleague, PNP Deputy Chief for Administration, P/Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia for spreading disinformation. In a statement Tuesday, he said Sermonia was the source of the disinformation. “Sermonia had been spreading lies about my alleged deportation. Maybe he knows something that everyone in our country does not know. Maybe it was him who tipped off Canadian Immigration by concocting half-truths and many lies and was hoping that I would be deported. He had been sending messages about my deportation,” Azurin said. He said the truth will come out in due time. He urged current PNP chief, Gen. Benjamin Acorda, to investigate Sermonia’s alleged participation in the defamation campaign. Sermonia’s denial Meanwhile, Sermonia denied Azurin’s claim. In a press briefing at Camp Crame Wednesday, Sermonia said he had no idea why his name was being dragged into the controversy regarding the supposed deportation of Azurin. “Former Chief PNP Azurin may have been fed false stories again to drag my name into the unverified reports of his alleged deportation. There is no reason for me to do what I am being accused of,” said Sermonia, whose wife is the sister of Azurin’s wife. He added: “I’d rather not dignify the accusations with a reply that may be construed negatively. My advice is to directly ask the Canadian Embassy what the reason for the questioning was, which made Azurin decide to return to the country as he stated, and not deported.” He said Canada has its own rules and regulations on border control. “So, it is best to secure the report from them. The truth will speak for me,” he added. Sermonia said he plans to discuss the issue with their entire family. Azurin and Sermonia are members of Philippine Military Academy Class 1989. The post DFA confirms Azurin’s awry Canada issues appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
LTO helping in drive vs smuggled vehicles
Land Transportation Office Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza II on Tuesday vowed to assist in the campaign against smuggling of vehicles into the country. Mendoza said they will strengthen the coordination with the Bureau of Customs which is the lead agency in the government’s crackdown against smuggling. The coordination with the BoC, according to Mendoza, will pave the way for the LTO to ensure that no smuggled vehicles will be registered in any LTO offices across the country. “I call on our regional directors and district heads to maintain close coordination with the BoC in your areas,” Mendoza said. “The LTO will provide all the necessary assistance to the BoC in ensuring that all imported motor vehicles are properly documented,” he added. The fight against smuggled vehicles also means preventing and eradicating criminal activities, Mendoza said. Mendoza also called on the public to report any information that they may find helpful in preventing the entry of smuggled vehicles. The post LTO helping in drive vs smuggled vehicles appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM gives away confiscated smuggled rice to poor families
Fulfilling his vow to go after rice smugglers and hoarders President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led on Tuesday the distribution of confiscated smuggled rice to less fortunate families in Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay as he led the turnover of other assistance to the residents and the local government units in the province. In his speech, President Marcos assured the Filipino people that the government and his administration are working tirelessly to put an end to the smuggling activities of some erring individuals, which is hurting the agricultural sector in the Philippines. “Kailangan sapat ang pagkain para sa ating mga kababayan. Kasama diyan ay pinapatibay natin ang sistema ng agrikultura. Ngunit hindi lamang, yun ang nagiging problema sa agrikultura dito sa Pilipinas, ang isang napakalaking problema ay ang pag-smuggle ng bigas papasok ng Pilipinas,” Marcos said. “Hindi lamang pag-ayos ng agricultural sector ang ating kailagang gawin. Kailangan din nating pagtibayin ang ating pag-impose ng mga batas tungkol nga sa pagbigay ng suplay ng bigas sa atin, sa buong Pilipinas. Hindi tama na nagpapasok sila, iniipit nila ang suplay, pinapataas nila ang presyo, naghihirap ang tao para lang kumita sila ng malaki,” he added. The President said that he has already instructed the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to run after smugglers and ensure that their illegal operations will be busted as he commended the bureau for their successful seizure of 42,180 bags of imported rice worth P42 million at a warehouse in Barangay San Jose Gusu, Zamboanga City on 15 September 2023. The President stood firm that the government is following laws when confiscating smuggled items, giving them a 15-day notice to hear their side of the story. “Nabigyan na sila ng 15 days, wala silang naisagot kaya’t kinuha na ng gobyerno at ginawa naming donation sa DSWD [Department of Social Welfare and Development] … ang sabi ko, ang pinakanangangailangan diyan ang mga beneficiaries ng 4Ps,” Marcos said. “Iyon po ay patuloy nating pag-aasikaso para tignan natin na maging maganda ang patakbo ng mercado sa bigas dahil alam naman natin kung gaano kahalaga ang suplay ng bigas sa magandang presyo para sa lahat ng Pilipino,” the chief executive added. President Marcos assured the Filipino people that the government is ready to assist the affected less fortunate individuals. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian was present during the distribution of rice along with NFA Administrator Roderico Bioco, BOC Deputy Commissioner Vener Baquiran, Philippine Airforce Brigadier Gen. Dennis Estrella, Philippine Army Major General Antonio Nafarrete, and other officials. President Marcos also led the turnover of P6.72 million worth of DA - Philippine Rural Development Project Investment for Rural Enterprises and Agricultural and Fisheries Productivity (DA-PRDP); P11.84 million worth of DA-PRDP I-REAP; and P1.5 million worth of DA Kadiwa Financial Grant (hauling vehicle). The President also distributed P1 million worth of DA Kadiwa Financial Grant (trading capital); P1.5 million worth of DA Kadiwa Financial Grant (vehicle and working capital); P59,043 worth of Assistance Certificate from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR): P76,620 worth of Mackerel Drift Gillnet; and P4,000 worth of eight rolls-PE Rope No. 10mm. The chief executive also led the distribution of P120 million worth of assistance under the “Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantages / Displaced Workers” of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and P530,000 worth of DOLE livelihood assistance. The post PBBM gives away confiscated smuggled rice to poor families appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Libya survivors face outbreak
Aid groups have warned of a “second humanitarian crisis” in the flood-devastated eastern Libyan city of Derna as the risk of water-borne diseases and shortages of food, shelter and medicine” is growing. “Thousands of people don’t have anywhere to sleep and don’t have food,” Salah Aboulgasem, Islamic Relief’s deputy director of partner development, said Friday. “In conditions like this, diseases can quickly spread as water systems are contaminated,” he added. “With this type of event we can really worry about water-related disease,” Doctors Without Borders medical coordinator in Derna Manoelle Carton said, adding that efforts to coordinate aid is “chaotic.” Last week’s flood submerged the port city of Derna, washing thousands of people and homes out to sea after two upstream dams burst under the pressure of torrential rains triggered by the hurricane-strength storm. Conflicting death tolls have been reported, with officials in the east of the divided country giving different estimates, and one speaking of at least 3,840 dead. The International Organization for Migration, meanwhile, said “over 38,640” people had been left homeless in eastern Libya, 30,000 of them in Derna alone. Teams from the Libyan Red Crescent are “still searching for possible survivors and clearing bodies from the rubble in the most damaged areas” of the city, its spokesperson Tawfik Shoukri told Agence France-Presse. Other teams were trying to deliver much-needed aid to families in the eastern part of Derna, which had been spared the worst of the flooding but was cut off by road, he added. In a Friday night news conference, Ahmed al-Mesmari, the spokesperson for east-based military strongman Khalifa Haftar pointed to “enormous needs for reconstruction.” The United Nations launched an appeal for more than $71 million to assist hundreds of thousands in need and warned the “extent of the problem” remains unclear. “We don’t know the extent of the problem,” UN aid chief Martin Griffiths said Friday in Geneva, as he called for coordination between Libya’s two rival administrations — the UN-backed, internationally recognized government in Tripoli, and one based in the disaster-hit east. WITH AFP The post Libya survivors face outbreak appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DICT also requests confidential funds worth P300M
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has requested a confidential fund worth P300 million worth of confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) for fiscal year 2024 to combat scammers, Secretary Ivan Uy said on Wednesday. In a Malacañang Press Briefing, Uy explained that the confidential fund is necessary to conduct intelligence and investigations to apprehend cyber criminals. Confidential funds pertain to costs associated with surveillance operations within non-military government organizations to assist the agency's mission or functions. The DICT chief expressed concern over scammers using multiple tactics to evade being identified and apprehended. Uy underscored that these criminals are well-funded, well-organized, and highly technical. Hence, he said that DICT needs to match them with the appropriate government capabilities. "Our hands are tied without the proper tools, and many of these tools and methods require confidential funds to be implemented," Uy said. The DICT says that it is working with law enforcement agencies to crack down on cybercrime. However, Uy said that the confidential fund will allow the DICT to take a more proactive approach to combating these crimes. "We need to be able to gather intelligence and conduct investigations without being hampered by red tape," Uy said. "The confidential fund will allow us to do that," he added. Joint Circular No. 2015-01, issued on January 8, 2015, by the Commission on Audit and four other government entities, prescribes the guidelines for the utilization and audit of intelligence and confidential funds. According to records from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the combined allocation for confidential and intelligence funds for the upcoming year amounts to P10.142 billion. The DBM noted that this figure represents an increase of P120 million compared to the P10.02 billion allocated for the Confidential and Intelligence Funds (CIF) in 2023. The post DICT also requests confidential funds worth P300M appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Intramuros, citadel of an empire (1)
My appreciation of arts and culture began when I was assigned by the Commission on Audit as the first resident auditor of the Intramuros Administration, or IA, then headed by Dr. Jaime C. Laya. It was our distinct honor and privilege to have worked with Dr. Laya, who was highly admired for his honesty and integrity. His presence in the workplace brought trust, grace and efficiency. He was the chief implementor of the mandates to restore and develop Intramuros as a monument to the Hispanic period of Philippine history, to restore its general appearance to conform to the Spanish architecture of the sixteenth to the nineteenth centuries, and to sponsor, conduct or otherwise assist and support festivals and cultural activities. Knowing the functions of the agency under audit helped me to review intelligently the economy and effectiveness of the utilization of government resources in the implementation of the mandates to restore the walls of Intramuros, the authenticity of the works it was acquiring, and the cost-effectiveness of the acquisitions. The continuing process of examining things of the past and imbibing into my consciousness bits of knowledge about the makings, the ages, and colors of the porcelain antiques of the Ming and Sung dynasties, the religious relics, the artifacts, the paintings of Luna, Hidalgo, Amorsolo and Castañeda, the archaeological findings, of the rare and ancient books, of the music of various ages and classes of our indigenous peoples, of the architectural and sculptural designs displayed by our own artists in this particular form of discipline — in totality constituted a singular quality of distinction that was uniquely beautiful and globally interesting to behold. The whole process of assimilation enabled me to equip myself with the necessary tools to create my own forms of art out of the stored knowledge that is both teachable and writable for the education and pleasure of man and the Greater Glory of God. President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos founded the Intramuros Administration on 10 April 1979, not only to restore the walls of the oldest city of Intramuros but to perpetuate the memory of the citadel of the only Catholic Empire in Asia. Intramuros was primarily a fortress. How it was built and how it withstood the battle during the Japanese occupation in the Second World War is a fascinating story. The decision of the Japanese Imperial Army during the Second World War to make their last stand in Intramuros against the Allied Forces in the Philippines was a tribute to the formidability of the old walled city as the strongest fortification built by Spain in Asia. The Japanese Army had a worthy commander, Rear Admiral Sanji Iwabuchi, a graduate of the Imperial Japanese Navy Academy in 1915. In 1937, he was promoted to captain and given command of the battleship Kirishima on 20 April 1942. On 15 November 1942, his forces engaged the US Navy in the Second Naval Battle of Guadalcanal where his battleship Kirishima was sunk but not after it had sunk two US battleships and eight cruisers — a major one-sided triumph for the Japanese Imperial Naval Command which promoted Iwabuchi to Rear Admiral. He was given command of the 11th fleet, in charge of the Japanese defense of Guadalcanal against the United States. General Yamashita later gave him a direct order to withdraw and report to him and not to proceed to Manila. He refused, citing his shame over having lost his Kirishima. He believed he could redeem that loss by holding his position in Intramuros to the death. Before the start of hostilities, Rear Admiral Sanji Iwabuchi addressed his men: “We are very glad and grateful for the opportunity to serve our country in this epic battle. Now with what strength remains, we will daringly engage the enemy. Banzai to the Emperor! We are determined to fight to the last man.” (To be continued) The post Intramuros, citadel of an empire (1) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gov’t agencies kick off simultaneous SLP cash payout for micro rice retailers
Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Saturday assured micro rice retailers at the Commonwealth Market in Quezon City that the Marcos administration will continue helping them not only financially but also in monitoring their well-being. Gatchalian, along with Department of Agriculture (DA) Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Director Fhillip Sawali, led the kick-off of the simultaneous cash assistance payout for micro rice retailers in Quezon City and the cities of San Juan and Caloocan. Gatchalian said qualified micro rice retailers who were not able to avail of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) cash assistance in the Saturday rollout are assured of receiving their cash assistance as the DSWD will continue the payouts in the following days. In his message to the beneficiaries of the DSWD’s SLP Cash Assistance for Micro Rice Retailers, Gatchalian emphasized the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to immediately assist the micro rice retailers who were affected by the price cap as mandated by Executive Order No. 39. "The President wants to convey his message that he understands what you are going through. I was talking to him yesterday and he knows that this is not easy for our micro rice retailers. That is why he immediately instructed us to provide this kind of financial assistance or livelihood grants to assist you," Gatchalian said. A total of 589 micro rice retailers affected by the imposition of price controls were each given cash aid amounting to P15,000 in the three public markets where the simultaneous payout was held. For Commonwealth Market, SLP-cash aid payouts were given to 405 micro retailers; 136 retailers at the Maypajo Market in Caloocan City, and 48 beneficiaries at the Agora Market in San Juan City. According to the DTI, the P15,000 cash assistance has been calculated as the maximum amount allowed to compensate rice retailers classified as a micro-enterprise (based on Republic Act No. 9501 or Magna Carta for MSMEs) for losses incurred for at least seven days from the effectivity of EO 39. “On behalf of President Bongbong Marcos, we thank our small rice retailers like you who followed immediately and helped to be part of the solution... When we work together, we know that nothing is impossible,” the DSWD chief said. The cash assistance payout is one of the measures of the Marcos administration to help micro rice retailers in line with the issuance of EO No. 39 which set a price cap of P41 per kilo of regular-milled and a ceiling of P45 per kilo of well-milled rice. The DSWD chief reiterated the message of President Marcos that while the issuance of EO 39 aims to protect the buyer, the government will not leave the micro rice retailers behind. “The Executive Order that came out is a mechanism to protect our small buyers. We know that it is also important that they have food on the table, but our president also knows that we should also help you, our partners, in delivering food services to our people,” Gatchalian emphasized. The DSWD chief also pointed out that the SLP is not just giving financial assistance. He said the directive of the President is for government agencies to continue the dialogues with rice retailer organizations “so that we can better understand what other assistance will come from the national government for our small rice retailers.” “Sabi nga ng pangulo, hindi ito yung pagbigay ay tapos na. Patuloy po ang magiging dayalogo sa inyong mga samahan para lalo pa naming maunawaan kung ano pa yung mga tulong na manggagaling sa pamahalaang nasyonal para sa ating mga small rice retailers,” Gatchalian said. Gatchalian stressed that the national government and the local governments are here to help the micro rice retailers. “Don't worry, we will continue to monitor your well-being,” the DSWD chief said. The post Gov’t agencies kick off simultaneous SLP cash payout for micro rice retailers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»