President Marcos on Ramadan: Show compassion, solidarity
President Marcos called on Muslims yesterday to display compassion and solidarity and to pray for those affected by calamities and other unfavorable situations as they begin their observance of the holy month of Ramadan......»»
Marcos’ Eid al-Fitr message to Muslims: sustain values, teachings during Ramadan
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday, 21 April urged the Muslim community to uphold all the ideals instilled during Ramadan. The Chief Executive made the call after expressing solidarity with the Muslim community in the Philippines and overseas as they celebrate Eid al-Fitr. "As you culminate the holy month of Ramadhan by celebrating the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast, may you sustain the values, teachings, and practices that you have wholeheartedly discerned and embodied throughout this time," Marcos said in his Eid'l Fitr message. "Let these form the foundations of your characters as you continue to fulfill righteous deeds and strive to live a virtuous life moving forward," Marcos added. He added that the whole Filipino community joins all Muslims in celebrating this solemn day "for we recognize the Islamic faith and embrace it as part of our own collective consciousness." "With our many faiths informing all our actions and bridging all our differences as a diverse set of peoples, we can transcend any challenge and still remain united under the banners of camaraderie, respect, and love," Marcos said. The Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr, commemorating the conclusion of Ramadan, is observed during the first three days of Shawwal, the tenth month of the calendar. Malacaang has already designated Friday a holiday in honor of the event. Over 1.7 billion Muslims worldwide mark Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, by fasting and praying. The Feast of Breaking the Fast, also known as Eid'l Fitr, was previously announced by the Office of the Bangsamoro Mufti to fall on Saturday, 22 April 2023. The post Marcos’ Eid al-Fitr message to Muslims: sustain values, teachings during Ramadan appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BBM calls for deeper compassion, sense of solidarity as nation welcomes Chinese New Year
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Sunday called on Filipinos and the Filipino – Chinese community to have a deeper compassion for the poor, and a renewed sense of solidarity as the nation marks the Chinese New Year. “May this auspicious day not only remind us of the blessings we have at […] The post BBM calls for deeper compassion, sense of solidarity as nation welcomes Chinese New Year appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Acuzar: House all-out behind 4PH housing
Housing czar Jose Rizalino Acuzar has assured the public that the House of Representatives intends to bankroll the Marcos administration’s campaign to wipe out the country’s 6.5 million housing backlog. Secretary Acuzar, who heads the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development, revealed that Speaker Martin Romualdez guaranteed his support for the government’s “Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino program” or 4PH. Acuzar guested in this week’s Straight Talk, Daily Tribune’s digital show, where he laid down the government’s socialized housing program being implemented by DHSUD. “Speaker Romualdez is very supportive of providing interest subsidies. He said he will even file a bill to make 4PH sustainable,” he said. The House gets the first crack at combing through the projects under the Executive Department’s National Expenditures Program, thus it is considered to hold the “power of the purse.” “We are also in constant communication with the Department of Budget and Management for them to release the budget, so that next year, we will have the allocation for the interest subsidy,” he said. Last April, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that a total of 30,000 units would be built in six sites in Bulacan, namely in San Jose Del Monte City and the municipalities of San Rafael and Pulilan. A total of 1,890 residential vertical housing units to be named Aria Estate Housing Development will be built on a 4.5-hectare land at Heroesville in Barangay Gaya-Gaya, city of San Jose Del Monte. The project will be comprised of nine residential towers and eight-story buildings with commercial areas on the ground floor. Acuzar said all edifices and houses that will be built will be resilient against earthquakes and other natural calamities. He said local government units will play a role in ensuring the units constructed are of high quality in terms of materials used and workmanship. “They (the LGU) are the ones who will make sure that all buildings are strong. The DHSUD cannot check all those construction permits. From there, these LGUs can check if the construction of the buildings is sub-standard or not,” Acuzar said. He also urged the private sector to help the government realize the dream to provide decent homes to underprivileged families. On bringing back war-torn Marawi City to its feet, Acuzar said reconstruction works there are nearly done. He said all sectors of the government were tapped in rebuilding Marawi. “Roads will be handled by the Department of Public Works and Highways, schools are for the Department of Education, and the resident’s health problems, they’re for the Department of Health to handle it. It’s a multi-agency approach,” he added. All concerns about issues on salaries of the Task Force Bangon Marawi had been addressed and resolved, he averred. This March, Task Force Bangon Marawi officer-in-charge and DHSUD assistant secretary Melissa Aradanas said many projects have been achieved and are now enjoyed by the residents. The post Acuzar: House all-out behind 4PH housing appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Record-high Pag-IBIG savings reach P27B
Pag-IBIG Fund members saved P27.51 billion during the first four months of 2023, growing 10 percent year-on-year and setting a new record for the highest amount saved by members for any January to April period "We are happy that Filipino workers are saving more with Pag-IBIG Fund. Their trust and confidence in our savings programs continue to grow as proven by our record-high members’ savings collections for January to April,” Secretary Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar, who leads the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development or DHSUD, said. “This is good news because the increase in the savings collected shall allow us to finance the increasing demand for our home loans, in line with our objectives under the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing or 4PH Program of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.,” stressed Acuzar, who also chairs the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees. Meanwhile, Pag-IBIG Fund chief executive officer Marilene C. Acosta said the increase in savings was not confined to the mandated Pag-IBIG Regular Savings of its members. Continued popularity of MP2 Savings Program She also attributed the record-high collections to the continued popularity of the agency’s Modified Pag-IBIG 2 Savings Program. The amount saved voluntarily by members under its MP2 Savings in the first four months have already reached P13.89 billion, which is 14 percent higher than the P12.14 billion saved by members during the same period last year, and is also a new record-high. The MP2 Savings is Pag-IBIG Fund’s voluntary savings program that yields higher dividends compared to the agency’s Regular Savings program. The program has a five-year maturity period and a minimum savings requirement of only P500. Open to retirees and pensioners MP2 Savings is also open to retirees and pensioners who are former Pag-IBIG Fund members. For 2022, the savings program earned an annual return rate of 7.03 percent, the highest since the pandemic. “Our MP2 Savings Program continues to grow at a strong pace. We thank our members for their continued support and enduring trust in our MP2, as well as in our Regular Savings program. We are even more grateful that the biggest growth areas in our savings collections come from our voluntary MP2 Savings Program and from members who save more than their mandated monthly savings,” Acosta said. “The new record-high in total members’ savings we collected from January to April of this year show the deeper appreciation of our members on the benefits of saving with Pag-IBIG Fund,” she added. The post Record-high Pag-IBIG savings reach P27B appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM certifies Maharlika Investment Fund bill as urgent
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has certified Senate Bill No. 2020, which seeks to establish the Maharlika Investment Fund, as a priority legislative measure. In a letter to the Senate dated 22 May, Marcos cited the “compelling need” for a “sustainable national investment fund” amid the rising inflation rate driven by various factors. “Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, I hereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of Senate Bill No. 2020,” the letter read. “With the downgrade of the global growth projection this year on account of debilitating inflation, fluctuating and unstable prices of crude oil and other fuels due to the protracted conflict between Ukraine and Russia, and continuing interest rate hikes in the international financial sector, there is a compelling need for a sustainable national investment fund as a new growth catalyst to accelerate the implementation of strategic and high-impact large infrastructure projects that will stimulate economic activity and development,” it added. The letter, which was received by the Senate on 23 May but only released to media by 24 May, was addressed to Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri. The House of Representatives had approved on third and final reading House Bill No. 6608, or the proposed MIF bill, before adjourning for the Christmas break last year. Its counterpart, the Senate, is still discussing the proposed measure more than a week before the sine die adjournment on 2 June. On Tuesday, Zubiri urged the economic managers, including Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, to personally attend the interpellation at the Senate “for them to show support for the measure and help rally the members to help pass the measure.” Asked if the upper chamber will approve the Maharlika Investment Fun bill on third and final reading today, the Senate chief said: “Not really.” The Senate is “targeting” to approve the measure “next week,” he added. The post PBBM certifies Maharlika Investment Fund bill as urgent appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Another record set: PAGIBIG members savings reach P27.51B January to April
Pag-IBIG Fund members saved P27.51 billion during the first four months of 2023, growing 10 percent year-on-year and setting a new record for the highest amount saved by members for any January to April period. "We are happy that Filipino workers are saving more with Pag-IBIG Fund. Their trust and confidence in our savings programs continue to grow as proven by our record-high members’ savings collections for January to April. This is good news because the increase in the savings collected shall allow us to finance the increasing demand for our home loans, in line with our objectives under the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing or 4PH Program of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.,” said Secretary Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar, who leads the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees. Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta, meanwhile, said that the increase in savings was not confined to the mandated Pag-IBIG Regular Savings of its members. Acosta also attributed the record-high collections to the continued popularity of the agency’s Modified Pag-IBIG 2 (MP2) Savings Program. The amount voluntarily saved by members under its MP2 Savings in the first four months has already reached P13.89 billion, which is 14% higher than the P12.14 billion saved by members during the same period last year, and is also a new record high. The MP2 Savings is Pag-IBIG Fund’s voluntary savings program that yields higher dividends compared to the agency’s Regular Savings program. The program has a 5-year maturity period and a minimum savings requirement of only P500. The MP2 Savings is also open to retirees and pensioners who are former Pag-IBIG Fund members. For 2022, the savings program earned an annual return rate of 7.03%, the highest since the pandemic. “Our MP2 Savings Program continues to grow at a strong pace. We thank our members for their continued support and enduring trust in our MP2, as well as in our Regular Savings program. We are even more grateful that the biggest growth areas in our savings collections come from our voluntary MP2 Savings Program and from members who save more than their mandated monthly savings. The new record-high in total members’ savings we collected from January to April of this year show the deeper appreciation of our members on the benefits of saving with Pag-IBIG Fund,” Acosta added. The post Another record set: PAGIBIG members savings reach P27.51B January to April appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PNP conducts bonus probe
The Philippine National Police will start the probe on the release of service recognition incentives to police officers for the fiscal year 2022 after reports that some received less than the agreed amount. PNP chief Gen.Benjamin Acorda Jr. said that they will be coordinating with Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. and other offices to look into it because if there is a complaint, there are things that should investigate. “We are constantly coordinating with the SILG. We are looking into this because if there is a complaint, it seems that there are things that should be looked into we are investigating and we are now coordinating with other offices that have something to do with this and I am asking them, we will be sitting down with them to hear for myself together with my command group and we might be inviting also from the other officers of the DILG to see to it and hear together what this explanation is and from there we can see what our next move,” Acorda told reporters after officiating in the oath-taking, donning and pinning of rank 606 insignia for the Newly Appointed Police Commissioned Officers on Monday afternoon held at Camp Crame. Earlier, Abalos said he would also seek guidance from the Department of Budget and Management regarding the policies on the payout of the incentive. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., through Administrative Order 1, authorized in December last year the release of a one-time SRI for employees in the executive branch in recognition of the collective and invaluable contribution to the government’s continuing efforts to ensure the responsive delivery of services, especially in the midst of the public health emergency due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and other socio-economic challenges. The AO authorizes the grant of a one-time SRI at a uniform rate not exceeding P20,000 for those working under the executive department. Meanwhile, Acorda urged all the police commissioned officers to continue learning and growing as professionals, always striving to be the best they can be as he reminds them of their responsibility to serve the people and encourages them to seek guidance from the Lord. “Let us embody the spirit of ‘Serbisyong Nagkakaisa’ as we serve and protect our fellow Filipinos. Remember to serve well and in harmony with your fellow police officers, to other government agencies, and to the community that relies on our service and protection,” Acorda said. Acorda emphasized the significance of their roles, stating, “As newly appointed police commissioned officers, you have already proven your capabilities in your respective fields, and now it is time to channel that expertise into the law enforcement arena. You will be entrusted to lead while upholding justice, protecting the innocent, and ensuring the safety and security of our nation. This is a sacred duty that requires integrity, courage, and compassion.” Among the appointees were 91 Technical Officers, and 515 Line Officers, all chosen under the PNP Lateral Entry Program CY 2022 for Line and Technical Officers. Under the program, 29 lawyers, four priests, two pastor, and seven doctors were appointed to the initial rank of Police Captain, entitling them to a basic monthly salary of P56,582.00. The remaining 564 newly appointed PNP officers, which include dentists, psychologists, architects, engineer, chemists, IT, and line officers were appointed to the initial rank of Police Lieutenant, with a basic monthly salary of P49,528.00, along with allowances and various cash and non-cash benefits. The successful candidates of the Lateral Program have undergone a stringent selection process, demonstrating their commitment to excellence, professionalism, and the core values of the PNP. The post PNP conducts bonus probe appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Revilla: Lakas-CMD remains supportive of Marcos, Romualdez
The Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats or Lakas-CMD remains supportive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and its party president, Speaker Ferdinand Romualdez, Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. said Friday. “Our decades-long solidarity has witnessed and endured many trials which only strengthened our bond that is founded on our shared passion to serve our nation. Through the darkest of storms and greatest of tribulations, we have proven time and again that our unity will never be torn down,” said Revilla, the Lakas-CMD co-chairperson. Revilla assured that LAKAS-CMD, being the country's most dominant political party, remains united despite the sudden removal of former President and current Pampanga Representative, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as senior deputy Speaker in the House of Representatives and rumors of a supposed plot to oust Romualdez, Marcos’ first cousin. Arroyo, who is now one of the eight deputy Speakers, is the President emeritus of Lakas-CMD. “Pinagtibay at pinagbigkis ang samahang ito ng pagsasama at pag-uunawaang hinubog at pinanday ng panahon. Sinubok pero hindi nawasak, bagkus ay palakas pa ng palakas (This party is strengthened and bound by companionship and understanding shaped and forged by time. Tested but not destroyed, instead, it got stronger and stronger),” Revilla stressed. The post Revilla: Lakas-CMD remains supportive of Marcos, Romualdez appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MORE Power vows upgrade of facilities
MORE Electric and Power Corporation, owned by businessman Enrique K. Razon Jr., has committed to upgrading its facilities and ramping up its services to better serve its franchise area. In an interview Tuesday in Daily Tribune’s Straight Talk digital show, MORE Power president and CEO Roel Z. Castro said the company works closely with small barangays to help resolve any electrical concerns that they may have. “So far, we have been investing in bigger transformers with bigger capacities to accommodate the spike in demand. Some barangay leaders also came to us to help them prevent any power interruptions,” Castro said. “We went house to house because we also improved our community relations,” he added. MORE Power is an electric power distribution company serving Iloilo City since 2019, after its takeover of the power distribution assets of private firm Panay Electric Company. Last March, the company inaugurated its 30/36MVA Megaworld substation in Mandurriao, Iloilo City. The investment demonstrates the company’s support to augment the capacity of the province’s grid, especially amid an unprecedented increase in demand as summer started. Razon’s group has been heavily investing in the power sector to help the government achieve energy security. His other company, Prime Infra, has completed its acquisition of the 45-percent operating stake in Malampaya through one of its subsidiaries, Prime Energy. The company assumed full ownership and control of Shell Philippines Exploration B.V. after a successful transition process for a safe and seamless handover of operations. The move marked the initial foray of Razon’s infrastructure arm into the upstream energy market. The company previously assured that it will do “all that can be done” to generate as much power as possible to keep up with the energy demands in Luzon. Early this week, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. approved the production service renewal of Malampaya for a final 15 years, or until 2039 to maximize the remaining natural gas reserves in the facility. The post MORE Power vows upgrade of facilities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Chevron’s Batangas lease extended 25 yrs
Chevron Philippines Inc. has renewed a lease on a parcel of land in Batangas owned by the government, a deal which was symbolic of the strengthened relations between the United States and the Philippines. The agreement was signed between Batangas Land Co. Inc. or BLCI and Chevron. BLCI owns the San Pascual, Batangas property where Chevron’s largest terminal in the country is located. BLCI is a subsidiary of the National Development Co. chaired by Trade and Industry Secretary Fred Pascual. With the extended lease, Chevron will use the property until 2050. US oil giant Chevron has represented America’s continued partnership with the Philippines since 1917. Trade Secretary Fred Pascual and United States Ambassador MaryKay Carlson witnessed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding. “This truly is a celebration of two companies coming together, but I’d like to say, of the two nations. We at the embassy use a social media hashtag — #PartnersInProsperity. We are excited to grow with the Philippines and to be partners in the prosperity of both of our nations and this is a great example today. This MoU signing is a great follow-on event to President Marcos’ visit to the United States recently,” Ambassador Carlson said during the event. Pascual, speaking as chairman of NDC, said the MoU signing is a testament to the Philippine government’s efforts to strengthen the Philippines-United States economic relations, especially following the recent Official Visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to Washington, D.C. Pascual said the signing was a momentous occasion and proof of the government’s intensified investment promotion campaigns materializing. This truly is a celebration of two companies coming together, but I’d like to say, of the two nations. The renewal of CPI’s lease for another 25 years signifies the reinforcement of the continuing partnership between the Philippines and the US and is expected to contribute greatly to the Philippine government’s efforts to facilitate economic recovery and expansion. Testament of confidence “We are delighted to know that there is this intent on the part of Chevron Philippines and Batangas Land, as documented in this MoU, to renew the lease on Batangas Land’s assets. This is a testament to continued investor confidence in the Philippines. And it signifies the country’s ability to provide a long-term enabling environment for the growth of global companies that choose to do business in the country,” Pascual said in his message. Chevron primarily markets Caltex’s fuels, lubricants, and other petroleum products in the Philippines. It operates through its two subsidiaries in the country, Chevron Philippines Inc. and Chevron Holdings Inc. The company has nearly 600 Caltex service stations in the Philippines, which offer a wide range of petroleum products, including Caltex with Techron gasoline, Caltex Diesel with Techron D, kerosene, lubricants and fuel additives. In 2020, the deal was questioned by Finance Secretary Dominguez when the deal allowed the renter to pay a monthly rental fee of just 74 centavos per square meter on a 120-hectare or 1.2 million sq. m. state property in Batangas. Comparative data from NDC appraisal reports and other official sources show that the current fair market rental value back then in that area should be around P17.90 per sq. m. per month. The post Chevron’s Batangas lease extended 25 yrs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Rex Gatchalian confirmed as DSWD chief
The Commission on Appointments on Tuesday confirmed the ad interim appointment of former Valenzuela Representative Rex Gatchalian as secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Gatchalian earlier vowed before the CA members to put equal thrusts and premium into the development programs of the DSWD. “Yes social welfare is very important, but equally as important will be the development programs of the department because these development programs are the ones that will break the chain of the cycle of poverty,” he said. Gatchalian said he will be working on strengthening the DSWD flagship programs including the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino. Program or 4Ps, sustainable livelihood program, community-driven of Kalahi CIDS, human capital investments, and digitalization of the social welfare program so that people can have easy access to basic social services. He also promised to boost social protection programs nationwide, as well as expand efforts to attract more social workers by establishing a DSWD academy. “We want to make that every single social welfare that we do launch should be targeted measurable, conditional and as clear exit mechanism so that we don’t saddle the country with one dole out program over another,” he said. Gatchalian also targets to lean into the existing capacities of the private sector in partnership with the government to make sure the country will become disaster prepared. He added the DSWD will push forward its residence and care facilities as well as capacitate further the social workers nationwide. Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda vouched for Gatchalian’s ability to lead the DSWD as being a disciplinarian and forceful. “He knows the grassroots being a local chief executive. He is able to communicate this very clearly and he really seems to have a very logical mind if I am not mistaken. He’s focused on his job, at the same time he has compassion on the people being a mayor,” Legarda said. CA vice-chair Rep. Ramon Guico Jr. of Pangasinan welcomed Gatchalian’s confirmation describing him as a true public servant in the government. While Rep. Manuel Sagarbarria of 2nd District Negros Oriental said he has known Gatchalian to be hard working, intelligent dedicated public servant. “His first-hand experience into the needs of his constituents back then when he was a local chief executive and his background working in the legislative branch are the very qualities that make him a perfect fit for the post,” Sagarbarria said. Other CA members also voted on the confirmation of Gatchalian including Cavite Rep. Lani Revilla; Surigao del Sur Rep. Johny Pimentel; and CA Assistant minority floor leader Rep. Jose Gay Padiernos. Senators Cynthia Villar, Imee Marcos, JV Ejercito, Grace Poe, and Risa Hontiveros also supported Gatchalian. Gatchalian was installed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. after the CA did not confirm former Erwin Tulfo’s appointment over citizenship and libel issues. The post Rex Gatchalian confirmed as DSWD chief appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gatchalian gets clear path to CA confirmation
A Commission on Appointments panel on Tuesday, 16 May, endorsed the confirmation of Valenzuela Rep. Rex Gatchalian's appointment as secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. After thorough deliberation, the Bicameral CA Committee on labor, employment, social welfare, and migrant workers approved the motion of Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte to bring Gatchalian’s appointment to the CA plenary. Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda vouched for Gatchalian’s ability to head the DSWD being a disciplinarian and powerful leader. “He knows the grassroots being a local chief executive. He is able to communicate this very clearly and he really seems to have a very logical mind if I am not mistaken. He’s focused on his job, at the same time he has compassion on the people being a mayor,” Legarda said. CA vice chair Rep. Ramon Guico Jr. of Pangasinan praised Gatchalian’s confirmation describing him as a true public servant in the government. While Rep. Manuel Sagarbarria of 2nd District Negros Oriental said he has known Gatchalian to be hard working, intelligent dedicated public servant. “His first-hand experience into the needs of his constituents back then when he was a local chief executive and his background working in the legislative branch are the very qualities that make him a perfect fit for the post,” Sagarbarria said. Other CA members also voted on the confirmation of Gatchalian including Cavite Rep. Lani Revilla; Surigao del Sur Rep. Johny Pimentel; and CA Assistant minority floor leader Rep. Jose Gay Padiernos. Senators Cynthia Villar, Imee Marcos, JV Ejercito, Grace Poe, Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go and Risa Hontiveros also supported Gatchalian. Meanwhile, Gatchalian vowed to put a premium on the development programs of the DSWD. “Yes social welfare is very important, but equally as important will be the development programs of the department because these development programs are the ones to break the chain of the cycle of poverty,” he said. Gatchalian said he will be working on strengthening the DSWD flagship programs including the 4Ps, sustainable livelihood program, community-driven of Kalahi CIDS, human capital investments, digitalization social welfare program, and boosting social protection programs nationwide, as well as expanding efforts to attract more social workers by establishing a DSWD academy. “We want to make that every single social welfare that we do launch should be targeted measurable, conditional and as clear exit mechanism so that we don’t saddle the country with one dole out program over another,” he said. Gatchalian also vowed to tap into the existing capacities of the private sector in partnership with the government to make sure the country will become disaster prepared. The post Gatchalian gets clear path to CA confirmation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Drug on war abuses ‘not done on purpose’ — Duterte
Former president Rodrigo Duterte agreed with current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s recent statement regarding the perpetration of abuses during his administration's campaign against illegal drugs. However, Duterte stressed that these abuses were not done on purpose. Duterte made these comments during his show "Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa" on SMNI News, where he was asked to give his opinion on Marcos' response to a question about the alleged abuses during a forum in Washington. "Tama siya na (He's correct that) along the way in the enforcement of the law, a rigid attitude towards the enforcement of the law abuses will be committed. Ngayon sabihin ko, I’ll go further. Not only abuses, sometimes killing unnecessarily," Duterte said. "Along the way, collateral damage marami yan (there are many collateral damages), those never intended, I am sure, by the law enforcement agency. Meron yang (There is) collateral damage in a shootout," he added. During a forum arranged by the Center for Strategic and International Studies Thursday last week, Marcos acknowledged that there were abuses committed during the campaign against illegal drugs in the "prior administration." He further stated that the previous administration placed excessive emphasis on law enforcement. "In my view what had happened in the previous administration is that we focused very much on enforcement. And because of that, it could be said that there are abuses by certain elements in the government and that has caused some concern with many, in many quarters about the human rights situation in the Philippines," Marcos said. "Well, I cannot speak to what my predecessor had in mind and what his idea was. But I can speak of the policy that we have undertaken and that I said the drug war continues to be at the source of many—much criminality in the Philippines," he added. Duterte said he is "not sure" if news reports quoted Marcos in the complete context of the statement. "I am sure it was not intended to criticize (me) because he knows how hard it is to be President," Duterte explained. Based on official government data, the former president's war on drugs, which lasted for six years, resulted in the deaths of over 6,000 individuals. However, human rights organizations argued that the death toll was more than 20,000. Duterte defended the use of lethal force in police operations and claimed that officers had to subdue the resistance of the individuals they were apprehending. "So what's the point in empowering somebody if you do not give him enough leeway?," Duterte said. "Sometimes the innocent members of the family gets it. But abuses, there are many, because of the high-handed manner of enforcement," Duterte added. The post Drug on war abuses ‘not done on purpose’ — Duterte appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos adviser defends Philippine ads in London
President Marcos’ creative communications adviser justified yesterday the advertisement on London buses that featured the Filipina-British nurse who administered the first COVID-19 vaccine, saying it aims to uplift the spirit of overseas Filipinos and to highlight their compassion and competence......»»
PBBM to Gov’t agencies: Attend to Malaya Lolas claims
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. instructed the appropriate government agencies to explore how the Philippines could properly handle the issues raised by the Malaya Lolas, a group of "comfort women" or victims of sexual slavery by the Japanese imperial army during World War II. The Chief Executive made the instruction in response to the Philippines' reply to the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women report, which stated that the Philippines had not supported the Malaya Lolas in filing claims against Japan. Marcos underscored that the Philippines is committed to protecting women's rights and promoting gender equality, as outlined in its laws, treaties, and other international human rights agreements. He also stated that the Philippine government is currently taking steps to address the CEDAW's concerns regarding the Malaya Lolas case. " I have instructed the relevant Government agencies to look into how we can appropriately address the concerns of the Malaya Lolas," Marcos said. "Government agencies concerned are formulating a comprehensive response to the CEDAW Committee and will submit this within the required period," Marcos added. In March, a committee of experts from the United Nations responsible for overseeing the implementation of the CEDAW determined that the Philippines had breached the rights of comfort women. The committee cited the country's failure to offer reparation, social support, and recognition for the harm they endured. The committee is awaiting a written response from the Philippines within six months, or until September, detailing any actions taken in response to the committee's opinions and suggestions. Marcos assured that the government commits to undertaking measures and finding ways to help them live better lives as an expression of our continued deep solidarity with them and of utmost respect. Two days after the UN body released its decision, Malacañang said the Philippine government recognizes the suffering of the victims but noted that "some reparations have been made and the Supreme Court has adjudicated on the matter." "We honor their indomitable spirit and dignity in taking this important cause forward through these years," Marcos said in the statement. “While we maintain our previous position on the admissibility and merits of the case in view of national jurisprudence and treaty obligations, we recognize the grave atrocities endured by brave Filipino women during the wars of the 20th century, and sincerely commiserate with them as they bear the long-term and irreversible physical and psychological effects of the war,” he added. Previously, Malacañang stated that the Marcos administration would examine the UN women's rights committee's opinions and provide a written response within six months, as stipulated by the Optional Protocol to the CEDAW. During World War II, thousands of women in Asia, including the Philippines, were subjected to sexual slavery by the Japanese military. In 1956, Manila and Tokyo signed a reparations agreement that required Japan to supply the Philippines with services and goods worth $550 million. Despite their dwindling numbers, the victims are still seeking justice and urging Japan to resolve the issue. The post PBBM to Gov’t agencies: Attend to Malaya Lolas claims appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DoT to ‘enhance’ new tourism tagline
After Senator Nancy Binay raised concerns about the “disconnected messaging” of the Marcos administration’s tourism advertising campaign, “We give the world the best—Philippines,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the tagline will be further enhanced. "The DOT will subsequently come out with a tourism brand for the Philippines aligned with the country brand, and enhancing the present tagline,” said Frasco. During the Department of Tourism lunch reception for tourism frontliners on Thursday, Frasco talked about the country branding "We Give the World our Best" which was introduced by the Office of the Presidential Advisor on Creative Communications. The campaign, launched in the United Kingdom, highlighted the work of Filipino nurses. "There is a sea of opinions about this. But I would like to remind our fellow Filipinos that the statement 'We give the world our best' is a statement of fact. Do you not agree? Is it not true that our Filipino workers all over the world have shown nothing less than a devotion to duty, commitment to responsibility, and a willingness to go the extra mile, to serve with love and compassion? We are Filipinos. We give the world our best," Frasco said. As a former local chief executive and former President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines, the DOT chief recalled how she would go from town to town to attend festivals. On those festivals, she said, she always saw how communities and local government units gave their best preparations for their guests, "because that is the nature of being a Filipino". "And that is why we fully support the campaign of our President to put forth to the world that the Philippines has no intention of putting out nothing less than the best. And that idea is translated further into what we have to offer in the Philippines. We have the best beaches, the best sites, the best nature destinations. And we have the best tour guides," she stressed. Further, she said, "That translates to everything that permeates our sense of hospitality and service as a tourism industry. 'We give the world our best' is a statement of fact. It is a rallying call. And it is aspirational for those who may still face a host of challenges and through government intervention will finally have the opportunity to be developed and fully maximized." Binay on Wednesday said that although she appreciates the initiative and the effort to give the Philippines the needed boost in the global market, there seems to be a disconnect in messaging. “Is the ad intended to encourage tourists to visit the country? Is it aimed to encourage more foreign investments? Or is it meant for hospitals abroad to hire our nurses? This is really vague,” Binay, who chairs the Senate Committee on Tourism, said in a statement on Wednesday. The lawmaker highlighted the need to emphasize who is the intended audience of the released advertising campaign. The post DoT to ‘enhance’ new tourism tagline appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl, Laos strengthen ties in ASEAN Summit
The Philippines and the Lao People's Democratic Republic on Wednesday committed to collaborate closely in several areas, such as health, education, trade and people-to-people exchange agreements. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the newly-appointed Prime Minister of Laos, Sonexay Siphadone, also pledged to cooperate with the Association of Southeast Nations leaders for the mutual benefit of the region. "We have 2,000 more or less Filipino nationals who are living in Lao and working in Lao PDR, and we are very proud of the contributions that they have made, especially in the educational sector," Marcos said during the bilateral meeting with the Lao premier at the 42nd ASEAN Summit plenary session in Indonesia on Wednesday. In addition to promoting tourism, Marcos highlighted the potential for professional exchanges between the Philippines and Laos, given the similarities between the two countries. "We have always felt that this has been a relationship -- this has been a longstanding one that we can further develop. We had a very good working relationship with your predecessor. We certainly look forward to continuing that during your chairmanship for ASEAN in the next ASEAN sessions," Marcos said. "The Philippines and Lao PDR, as I said, have had a very long relationship, but it is something that --- there's much potential now that our economies, especially here in ASEAN and around the region, have begun to show signs of life after the pandemic," Marcos added. For his part, Siphadone invited Marcos to visit Lao PDR on a state visit. "I would like to extend an invitation from His Excellency Thongloun Sisoulith, President of the Laos PDR, to Your Excellency to make a state visit at a time of convenience for you," Siphadone said. In return, Marcos also invited the Prime Minister and his President to visit the Philippines. The post Phl, Laos strengthen ties in ASEAN Summit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
QC solon pushes public nurses’ pay hike
A lawmaker on Sunday reiterated his call to Congress to raise by 75 percent the base pay of public nurses in the country to slow down their exodus to America and other foreign labor markets. Quezon City Fourth District Representative Marvin Rillo said that he is pushing the passage of House Bill 5276 which seeks to boost from P36,619 to P63,997 the minimum base of nurses in government hospitals. This comes as a total of 11,013 nursing graduates from the Philippines took the U.S. licensure examination for the first time from January to March this year, in a bid to obtain lucrative employment in America. “In the January to March quarter, we saw the highest number of Philippine-educated nurses taking the NCLEX for the first time, without counting repeaters,” Rillo, the House committee on higher and technical education vice chairperson, said. He added that the 11,013 represents a surge of 200 percent when compared to the 3,714 Filipino nursing graduates that took the NCLEX, or National Council Licensure Examination, for the first time in the same three-month period in 2022. “We maintain that the most effective intervention is for Congress to substantially increase the base pay of public nurses,” Rillo said. Under the proposed measure, the lowest base pay of public nurses would be raised by six notches to Salary Grade 21 prescribed under the Salary Standardization Law of 2019. The World Health Organization previously projected that “without action, there will be a shortfall of 4.6 million nurses worldwide by 2030.” In the Philippines, the WHO said the shortage of nurses is expected to be 249,843 by 2030, “unless greater investment is made now to retain them in the local health sector.” Meanwhile, the latest numbers from the U.S. National Council of State Boards of Nursing Inc.show that a total of 2,907 nursing graduates from India also took the NCLEX for the first time from January to March, along with 1,758 graduates from South Korea. A total of 767 nurses educated in Nepal and 680 nurses schooled in Puerto Rico likewise took the NCLEX for the first time last year. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in March ordered the Commission on Higher Education to come up with interventions to address the looming shortage of nurses due to overseas migration. The post QC solon pushes public nurses’ pay hike appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Fugitive Teves claims ‘persecution’
Suspended Negros Oriental Representative Arnie Teves claimed that the military and police raided one of his properties in Bayawan City without a search warrant. “This is real persecution already. This is too much. It’s not right anymore. It’s wrong. The trampling on human rights is too much. Shouldn’t you have freedom and peace in your home and community? Now it’s gone,” he said in Filipino in a press briefing conducted remotely yesterday. Teves is a suspect in the 4 March 2023 assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo. One of Teves’ lawyers, Ferdinand Topacio, said his client is being subjected to “harassment” as government forces also raided a poultry farm that Teves owns in Bayawan even during the celebration of Eid’l Fitr or the Feast of Ramadan on Friday. Approximately 15 short and high-powered firearms, explosives, and ammunition were found during the initial raid on Teves’ property and two other homes allegedly owned by his relatives on 10 March. Teves’ camp decried as illegal the raid on his properties by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group on 25 March. The authorities have linked his younger brother, former governor Pryde Henry Teves, to the killing of Degamo. The embattled lawmaker talked with the media through his Facebook page, where he said he hoped the raiders did not plant evidence. Teves also sought the help of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to stop government agents from raiding his properties without a search warrant. The President, however, had refused to be drawn into Teves’ problems, saying the legislator should just return home to face the charges. Suspension from House His plea to Marcos came days after he revealed in an interview that he had also sought the help of a colleague in returning home after he had insisted on remaining abroad because he did not feel safe. Last 22 March, the President urged the embattled lawmaker to return to the country, assuring him of tight security upon arrival. Teves is also facing charges over loose firearms and a series of killings in the province in 2019. He has been out of the country since 28 February and his failure to return home to perform his congressional duties and face the allegations leveled against him prompted his two-month suspension by the House ethics panel. PDP, Beijing party solidify ties The meeting was aimed at strengthening economic and cultural cooperation between China and the Philippines. Members of the major political party Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan or PDP Laban yesterday met with their counterparts in the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China or IDCPC at the Sheraton Hotel in Pasay City. Former president and PDP Laban chairman Rodrigo Duterte joined the meeting via Zoom, along with vice chairman Alfonso Cusi, Senator Robinhood Padilla, Former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Secretary General Melvin Matibag, and the party’s Council of Elders and national executive committee. The meeting was aimed at strengthening economic and cultural cooperation between China and the Philippines. The party leaders and the IDCPC delegation, led by the Director-General of the Asian Bureau Peng Xiubin, discussed methods for strengthening their relationship. Given his high approval rating of over 80 percent even upon his retirement, the conference was significant because former President Duterte’s influence within the party could affect its future direction. In addition, the meeting highlighted the growing relationship between the Philippines and China, as both countries have made efforts in recent years to strengthen trade and investment ties. China has made significant contributions to infrastructure and exchange programs in the cultural and educational realms. The Philippines’ strategic location and swiftly expanding economy in Southeast Asia make it a key player in the region. Therefore, establishing strong alliances with other nations, particularly China, is crucial for its future growth and development. The meeting signified a turning point in Philippine politics. It emphasizes the importance of international relations and political parties working together to influence the country’s future, as well as in the strengthening of “people-to-people” ties. The post Fugitive Teves claims ‘persecution’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Solons join Muslim world in Eid’l Fitr
Yesterday marked the end of the month-long fast during the holiest month of Ramadan, and lawmakers in the House of Representatives joined Muslims in commemorating one of Islam’s five pillars. Joining the Muslim community in its celebration of the Feast of Ramadan, Speaker Martin Romualdez said that the holiday is not seen as a hindrance to progress but rather as a powerful motivating force for all Filipinos to contribute to nation-building. “The recognition and respect for the diversity in our religious beliefs are deeply enshrined in our Constitution,” he said. “May you and your families be blessed with good health, happiness, and prosperity. May peace reign over your hearts and your households. And may the blessings of life be upon you and your loved ones.” The House chief, likewise, underscored that regardless of faith or religion, Filipinos will continue to march forward as a nation under one flag. “We view this diversity not as an obstacle to development, but rather as a potent moving force for all of us to contribute to nation-building in our own way, according to our respective religious beliefs,” he said. Under Romualdez’s leadership, a prayer room for Muslims was designated and opened last month in the House for the first time in the lower chamber’s history to cater Muslim employees and even House guests to practice their Islamic faith in time for the Holy Month of Ramadan. Basilan lawmaker Mujiv Hataman, a Muslim himself, meanwhile, expressed his hope that Muslims would internalize the values they had acquired and gained during Ramadan. “As we celebrate Eid’l Fitr today, it is my desire that the attributes we aim to emulate — love, patience, humility, kindness, generosity and peace — will stay with us even after today,” he said. The minority leader recalled how the holiday had taught Muslims patience and humility, as well as the virtues of charity and generosity toward others. “We should continue letting go of all the anger and hate, and embrace peace and justice as a way of life for all of us,” he said. “At this same time, we wish to spread peace and justice in our homes and communities, amidst the many incidents of violence we have witnessed recently.” Eid’l Fitr follows the fulfillment of Allah’s teachings. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared it a regular holiday in Proclamation 201 so the entire Filipino nation could join their Muslim brothers and sisters in peace and harmony in the observance and celebration of Eid’l Fitr. The post Solons join Muslim world in Eid’l Fitr appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»