Rep. Teves, tagged in Degamo slay, urged to return from travel, address allegations
House Speaker Martin Romualdez has called on Rep. Arnolfo Teves (Negros Oriental, 3rd District) to return to the Philippines after his travel clearance for a trip to the United States expired after March 9......»»
Shohei Ohtani to address theft allegations against interpreter in investigatio
Shohei Ohtani Denies Involvement in Gambling Scandal In a shocking turn of events, baseball star Shohei Ohtani has found himself caught up in a gambling.....»»
Heightened security for Degamos after Teves arrest | The wRap
The wRap's highlights: Roel Degamo, West Philippine Sea, Kate Middleton.....»»
Ohtani to address theft allegations against interpreter
Shohei Ohtani's interpreter got fired by the Dodgers amid allegations that he stole from the player to pay off gambling debts.....»»
DILG, PNP preparing for Teves return
Both the Department of Justice and the Philippine National Police are making preparations to secure the detention of expelled Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr. once he arrives from East Timor where he was arrested on Thursday after months in hiding......»»
Gov’t considering different options for Teves return — DOJ
The Department of Justice on Friday said that the government is looking at “different options” for the return of Interpol red-listed Arnolfo Teves Jr. to the Philippines......»»
Transport co-op, parent meet with LTO-7 to address ‘reckless driving’ allegations
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Following the show cause order issued by the Land Transportation Office in Central Visayas (LTO-7) against the Lahug Apas Transport Cooperative (Latransco) for the alleged reckless driving of one of their modern jeepney drivers, a hearing was conducted on November 8, Wednesday. According to an earlier report, the show cause order.....»»
Starting ‘em young
Three days from now, Filipinos will troop to the polling precincts once again to elect their Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials in what is supposed to be an integral component of the country’s democratic system. The elections, postponed many times before, allow for the representation and participation of local communities and the youth. However, these elections have not been without controversy, with allegations of vote buying and the distribution of illegal campaign materials tarnishing the democratic process. Held every three years, the Barangay and SK Elections, also known as BSKE, play a critical role in the Philippine political landscape. Barangays are the smallest administrative units in the country, serving as the frontline of government service delivery. The SK, on the other hand, specifically represents the youth, offering them an opportunity to engage in the political process from a young age. Barangay elections ensure that the grassroots communities are represented in local governance. Residents can choose leaders directly responsible for addressing their immediate concerns, such as public safety, health, and education. SK elections aim to involve the youth in decision-making processes. By participating in these elections, young people can gain valuable experience in leadership, advocacy, and community service, setting the stage for their future involvement in national politics. These elections serve as a training ground for democracy, allowing citizens to exercise their right to vote and make informed choices. The principles of accountability, transparency, and participation are nurtured at the community level. Barangay elections can be particularly empowering for marginalized groups, including women and indigenous communities, who have the opportunity to run for office and make their voices heard. However, despite the importance of the BSKE, they have been marred by allegations of vote buying and the distribution of illegal campaign materials. These practices raise concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and whether they indicate an early introduction to corrupt political practices. Vote buying, whereby candidates offer money, goods, or services in exchange for votes, is a long-standing issue in Philippine politics. While it is not exclusive to Barangay and SK elections, the fact that such allegations surface even in these local-level contests is troubling. It begs the question of whether young people are witnessing and, to some extent, participating in a system that normalizes the exchange of votes for material gain. One possible explanation for the prevalence of vote buying is the socio-economic conditions in many barangays. Poverty and inequality can create an environment where voters may be more susceptible to monetary incentives. This underscores the need for broader efforts to alleviate poverty and promote education and awareness about the value of their vote. Another issue is the widespread use of illegal campaign materials, such as posters, banners, and pamphlets that do not conform to electoral regulations. While this may seem like a relatively minor infraction, it contributes to a culture of disregard for the rule of law and electoral integrity. Starting young in politics should ideally involve nurturing values of ethics and civic responsibility. Instead, when young people are exposed to campaigns that flout the rules, it may inadvertently teach them that bending or breaking rules is an acceptable strategy to achieve political goals. This sends a damaging message about the importance of playing by the rules in a democracy. Addressing the issues of vote buying and illegal campaign materials in barangay and SK elections is crucial to preserving the democratic process and instilling positive values in young people. Schools and community organizations should conduct programs to educate young people about the significance of their vote, ethical campaigning, and the consequences of vote buying. Such programs can help instill a sense of civic responsibility. The Commission on Elections, on the other hand, should vigorously enforce campaign finance and election laws, penalizing candidates who engage in illegal practices. It is crucial, therefore, to address these issues by emphasizing education, enforcement of election laws, transparency, and community involvement. In doing so, these elections can better serve as platforms for shaping the future leaders of the nation who are committed to the principles of democracy, integrity, and ethical governance. The post Starting ‘em young appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Confidential funds: Case for transparency
The allocation of confidential funds in the national budget has been a long-standing practice aimed at providing the government with the flexibility to address unforeseen circumstances and sensitive issues. However, recent controversies in Congress have ignited a debate on whether these confidential funds should be scrutinized and possibly scrapped in the pursuit of greater transparency and accountability. Confidential funds have historical roots in the need for the government to respond swiftly to emergencies and delicate situations without compromising national security. These funds are often earmarked for intelligence activities, diplomatic initiatives, and crisis response. The inherent secrecy surrounding these allocations has traditionally been justified as essential for the effective functioning of government in critical times. The recent controversies in Congress, however, have cast a spotlight on potential abuses of confidential funds. Allegations of misappropriation, lack of oversight, and misuse of these funds have fueled calls for their elimination. In fact, militant groups have called on the government to stop what they termed a confidential fund spree that it fears has become a tradition in the Philippine budget system that deprived Filipinos of better living conditions. Critics argue that the secrecy surrounding these allocations fosters an environment ripe for corruption and undermines the principles of transparency and accountability. The confidential nature of these funds makes it challenging to establish a robust system of checks and balances. Without adequate oversight, there is a risk that these funds could be misused or diverted for purposes other than that originally intended, leading to a lack of accountability. The lack of transparency can create an environment conducive to corruption. The clandestine nature of confidential funds may tempt individuals to exploit these resources for personal gain, away from the scrutiny of auditors and oversight mechanisms. As recent controversies have demonstrated, public trust in government institutions can be severely eroded when mismanagement or corruption occurs. The perception that public funds are being used inappropriately can damage the relationship between citizens and their government. In weighing the advantages and disadvantages of retaining or scrapping confidential funds in the national budget, a delicate balance must be struck. Now that Congress is mulling realigning the confidential funds of multiple government agencies toward national security, lawmakers should ensure that the confidential funds of agencies that have nothing to do with national security would be realigned to public services. While the need for flexibility in crisis response and the imperative to safeguard national security remain compelling arguments in favor of maintaining confidential funds, the recent controversies in Congress highlight the risks associated with their lack of transparency and accountability. Rather than an outright elimination, a more prudent approach may involve instituting reforms to enhance oversight mechanisms and ensure the responsible use of confidential funds. Implementing robust auditing processes, increasing transparency in reporting, and involving independent bodies in overseeing these allocations could help strike a balance between the need for confidentiality and the imperative of public accountability. Ultimately, the debate over confidential funds should be approached with the recognition that the challenges faced by the government are dynamic and multifaceted. Striking the right balance between secrecy and accountability is crucial to ensuring that confidential funds serve their intended purposes without compromising the principles of good governance and public trust. As societies evolve, so too should the mechanisms in place to ensure that the allocation and utilization of public funds align with the values of transparency, accountability, and the common good. The post Confidential funds: Case for transparency appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
S. Korean migrant’s tale to open Asia’s biggest film festival
The world premiere of Jang Kun-jae's "Because I Hate Korea" will open Asia's largest film festival Wednesday night as it looks to rally from a year marked by scandal and budget cutbacks. The South Korean director's tale of a disillusioned young woman who relocates to New Zealand is among 209 official entries from 69 countries set to unspool at the Busan International Film Festival, which runs until 13 October. Eighty will be making their world premieres in the southern port city. This year's edition comes as organizers grapple with the fallout from former festival director Huh Moon-yung's resignation in May amid accusations of sexual misconduct. The scandal saw BIFF's 2023 budget reduced by about 10 percent as sponsors withdrew in the wake of the allegations, according to organizers. Kang Seung-ah, now serving as acting deputy director, acknowledged they had endured a "difficult phase" before assembling a lineup she said was "more substantial than ever before". Opening night director Jang, who noted he'd attended BIFF far more as an audience member than a filmmaker, told a late afternoon news conference he had sought to address serious questions with his film. "I believe it's necessary to pay attention to the fact that many young people are finding it difficult to navigate through Korean society. I started questioning whether our society is providing a fair and equitable foundation for young people to pursue their dreams," he told reporters after a preview screening. Based on the best-selling Chang Kang-myoung novel, "Because I Hate Korea" received support from BIFF's Asia Project Market back in 2016. South Korea has transformed itself into a cultural powerhouse since then thanks to the explosive success of the Oscar-winning "Parasite" and the Netflix series "Squid Game". "Many people are now showing great interest in Korean content such as K-pop, K-movies, and K-dramas. Living in such an era, they might develop a certain fantasy about South Korea, I think," Nam Dong-chul, the festival's acting interim director, told reporters. But "I thought it might be good to consider these views from the perspective of people living in Korea and especially the youth in South Korea", he said of the opening night choice. "They might have different thoughts and experiences." Frequent Bong Joon-ho collaborator Go Ah-sung, who delivered a memorable performance as the protagonist of "Because I Hate Korea", was unable to attend the festival due to a back injury. 'Dear Jinri' Despite Go's absence, the festival will still feature serious star power, with acclaimed Hong Kong actor Chow Yun Fat scheduled to receive the Asian Filmmaker of the Year award. Three of Chow's films -- "A Better Tomorrow" (1986), "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" (2000) and 2023's "One More Chance" -- will be screened in his honour. Other highly anticipated screenings include "Dear Jinri", a documentary that features late K-pop star Sulli's last and incomplete project. Sulli, born Choi Jin-ri, took her own life in 2019 after a long struggle with online bullying. The film includes her final media interview, which has not been disclosed previously. Korea's filmmaking diaspora will also be showcased with a special series of screenings that includes "Searching" (2018), starring John Cho, and director Celine Song's Sundance favorite "Past Lives". Netflix's highly anticipated "Yellow Door: 90s Lo-fi Film Club" will also have its world premiere at BIFF. The documentary spotlights South Korea's renowned cinephile generation of the 1990s, acclaimed "Parasite" director Bong among them. "The Movie Emperor", director Ning Hao's satirical take on the Chinese film industry starring Hong Kong actor Andy Lau, is set to close the festival. Ning's comedy "deftly captures the fine line between the film industries in Hong Kong and mainland China", as well as the "delicate relationship between Western film festivals and Asian filmmakers", according to the program notes. The post S. Korean migrant’s tale to open Asia’s biggest film festival appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Accused of rape, Russell Brand speaks of ‘distressing’ week
British comedian and actor Russell Brand on Friday spoke of an "extraordinary and distressing week" in his first public comments since rape and assault allegations were aired against him, but did not address the claims. "Obviously it's been an extraordinary and distressing week and I thank you very much for your support and for questioning the information you are being presented with," he said on a video posted to his YouTube channel, which has 6.64 million subscribers. "I need your support now more than ever, more than I ever imagined I would," he added. But he did not comment on the joint investigation by The Times, Sunday Times and Channel 4 television in which four women made claims of rape, sexual assaults and emotional abuse against him. Then on Thursday, a woman accused Brand of exposing himself to her in 2008. Brand criticized the British government for asking tech companies to take action against him. Denouncing what he described as "deep state and corporate collusion" and "media corruption and censorship", he said he would post a longer video on Monday. In a video released last week, just before the story broke, Brand, 48, denied the allegations against him, which are said to have taken place between 2006 and 2013. He said his relationships had always been "consensual", even during a period when he admitted he was "very, very promiscuous". Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's official spokesman called the allegations "very serious and concerning". Sunak "has been clear there should never be any space for harassment, regardless of where it is found", he added. Brand's publisher Bluebird announced that "all future publishing" with the comedian had been put on hold. Video-sharing platform YouTube has also demonetized his content. /jj © Agence France-Presse The post Accused of rape, Russell Brand speaks of ‘distressing’ week appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Zelensky calls for rescue of Ukrainian children in Russia
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky urged countries to stand firm against Russia’s “genocide,” including the forcible deportation of 19,000 Ukrainian children to Russia, in his address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday. “This is a real chance for every nation — to ensure that aggression against your state, if it happens, God forbid, will end not because your land will be divided,” Zelensky said, but with sovereignty upheld. “Those children in Russia are taught to hate Ukraine, and all ties with their families are broken. This is clearly a genocide,” Zelensky added. In his own address, United States President Joe Biden expressed support for Ukraine. “We must stand up to this naked aggression today to deter other would-be aggressors tomorrow,” Biden said. The US leader said allowing Ukraine to be carved up threatens the security of any nation. Speaking on the sidelines of the UNGA, Ukraine’s First Lady, Olena Zelenska, said that Ukrainian children taken to Russia “were told that their parents don’t need them, that their country doesn’t need them, that nobody is waiting for them.” “Help us receive information on the children taken to Russia... Help us take children out of occupied territories through special safe corridors. Our children need justice,” she pleaded. Only 386 Ukrainian children have been brought back and more than 500 have been killed since Russia invaded Ukraine, according to Zelenska. Russia denies the allegations, saying instead it has saved Ukrainian children from the horrors of the war that started in February 2022 when Moscow launch its special military operations in its neighbor. The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin for the deportation considered as a crime against humanity. Another warrant was issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s presidential commissioner for children’s rights, on similar charges. The post Zelensky calls for rescue of Ukrainian children in Russia appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Exacting accountability for reef damage
Something is revolting about the recent discovery of massive reef damage at two shoals within the West Philippine Sea. Underwater surveys by a special covert mission conducted by the Philippine Coast Guard recently showed “crushed corals,” suggesting deliberate artificial alterations of the underwater terrain. The Escoda and Rozul Reefs, located within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone or EEZ, have recently become a focal point of international concern due to allegations of deliberate reef damage. These allegations have raised questions about the responsibility of China’s militia ships for the harm caused to these vital marine ecosystems. The two reefs in the West Philippine Sea are rich in marine biodiversity and essential for ecological and economic reasons. They provide a habitat for numerous species of fish and coral, support local fisheries, and contribute to the region’s food security. Moreover, they play a vital role in global climate regulation, acting as carbon sinks and protecting coastlines from storms and erosion. Allegations of deliberate reef damage at Escoda and Rozul Reefs have emerged recently, pointing to China’s militia ships as the culprits. Several incidents have been reported, including the anchoring of Chinese vessels on the reefs, the use of destructive fishing methods, and the construction of permanent structures, such as military outposts. These actions have had detrimental effects on the delicate marine ecosystem of the area. Evidence supporting these allegations includes satellite imagery, eyewitness accounts, and reports from environmental organizations and the Philippine government. Satellite imagery has shown Chinese ships in the vicinity of Escoda and Rozul Reefs for extended periods, and their activities align with the reported reef damage. Eyewitness accounts by local fishermen and Philippine authorities further corroborate these claims. China’s militia ships have been the subject of international scrutiny in recent years. These vessels are often described as a paramilitary force operating under the Chinese government’s direction. They are typically civilian vessels but can be armed and used for various maritime activities, including asserting territorial claims. In the case of Escoda and Rozul Reefs, it is alleged that these militia ships are being used to advance China’s territorial ambitions while causing harm to the marine environment. Among the key factors, however, that should be considered in exacting accountability for the destruction of these reefs is the legal framework wherein the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, or UNCLOS provides guidelines for the use of marine resources within EEZs. States are obligated to protect and preserve the marine environment within their EEZs. If it can be proven that China’s militia ships were involved in deliberate reef damage, then they would be in violation of UNCLOS. Diplomacy could also be pursued to address the issue. The Philippines has brought the matter to international attention and should engage in diplomatic negotiations with China to resolve the dispute peacefully. It is likewise crucial to assess the environmental consequences of the alleged damage and determine the extent of the harm caused. It is essential to recognize, too, that the alleged deliberate reef damage at Escoda and Rozul is taking place in the context of broader geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea. Disputes over territorial claims, fishing rights, and resource exploitation have strained relations between China and neighboring countries, including the Philippines. These tensions complicate efforts to address the issue of reef damage and may influence how accountability is pursued. Accountability for this damage, therefore, should be pursued through international legal frameworks and diplomatic channels while considering the broader geopolitical context in the South China Sea. Ultimately, the protection and preservation of Escoda and Rozul Reefs are essential for the Philippines and the entire global community, as they are integral to our oceans’ health and future generations’ well-being. E-mail: mannyangeles27@gmail.com The post Exacting accountability for reef damage appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gov’t looking for ways to address child sexual abuse
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the government is actively engaged in discussions on how to address the pervasive issue of child sexual abuse. He said the government is, at present, exploring all possible avenues, including seeking advice and guidance from the Supreme Court. Remulla said the issue of child sexual abuse is one of the problems the country is facing at the moment, which is why the government is exploring ways to address it and give importance to how to combat it and hopefully eradicate the problem. The DOJ chief has expressed deep concern over the rampant issue of child sexual exploitation in the Philippines, referring to it as an “epidemic” that has silently persisted over the years. Remulla’s remarks were prompted by the disturbing reports of alleged sexual abuses linked to a “doomsday cult” in Surigao del Norte. He said the charges against the Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI) are not isolated incidents; rather, they exemplify a distressing pattern that extends to other regions. Remulla revealed that a similar pattern of sexual predation had recently emerged on an island in Zamboanga, an incident that had gone unreported. “They are saying a cult in Surigao del Norte is not new. Only recently, two or three weeks ago, there was an incident reported in an isle in Zamboanga. This is an epidemic in the whole country wherein the children are the victims of sexual abuse and many of those are incestuous rape, which is really a problem,” said Remulla. The allegations against SBSI, made by Senator Risa Hontiveros, are deeply troubling. The cult is accused of sexually abusing and coercing over 1,000 children in Socorro town over the years. The senator brought these grave allegations to light and called for the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality to conduct an investigation in aid of legislation. In Senate Resolution No. 797, dated 18 September, Hontiveros stressed the urgent need for action in response to “alarming” reports of rape, sexual abuse, forced labor, and forced marriages involving minors within SBSI. The post Gov’t looking for ways to address child sexual abuse appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos administration denies maintaining troll farms
The Marcos administration has no troll farms as the lead communications arm of the government aims to combat fake news, Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said on Monday. Garafil made the clarification during a Senate hearing on the proposed P1.921-billion budget proposal of the Presidential Communications Office and its attached agencies for 2024. Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito said there were suspicions regarding 1,479 contractual employees working for the former Presidential Communications Operations Office, with allegations of them engaging in troll-like activities. In 2021, former Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon demanded that the PCO provide documents related to these employees under contract of service, consistently referring to them as "trolls." The slang term "troll" is used to describe an individual who shares incendiary or irrelevant content with the intention of provoking or upsetting others on social media and various online platforms. "For the record, Mr. Chair, we don't have trolls. No troll farm, no troll army," Garafil said. Ejercito underscored the importance of "disseminating information regarding the accomplishments of the Marcos administration." Garafil, for her part, said that PCO provides accurate information as the primary source of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s messages. "Our number one priority is still, of course, communication with the President, but, of course, underlying that is what you mentioned earlier, the fight against fake news. That's why this year, we launched a media information literacy campaign to address the problem of fake news," Garafil said. Last month, PCO launched Marcos administration's Media and Information Literacy Project to combat misinformation and disinformation online. Garafil said the MIL is the administration's response to the disinformation and misinformation plaguing the country's digital landscape, focusing on capacitating the youth to become more discerning media consumers. She also emphasized that the PCO would refrain from participating in any kind of historical distortion or rewriting. "We will not engage in any form of revisionism as they claim; on the contrary, we want to... that's why this is not a fact-checking tool, we want to empower everyone, especially the youth, to see for themselves, on their own, what is really true or not. We will not revise anything," Garafil said. She also mentioned the PCO's partnership with social media platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Google, and TikTok in the fight against misinformation. Garafil expressed that the PCO favors establishing a constructive partnership with TikTok rather than opting for a platform ban. The post Marcos administration denies maintaining troll farms appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos administration denies they maintain troll farms
The Marcos administration has no troll farms as the lead communications arm of the government aims to combat fake news, Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said on Monday. Garafil made the clarification during a Senate hearing on the proposed P1.921-billion budget proposal of the Presidential Communications Office and its attached agencies for 2024. Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito said there were suspicions regarding 1,479 contractual employees working for the former Presidential Communications Operations Office, with allegations of them engaging in troll-like activities. In 2021, former Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon demanded that the PCO provide documents related to these employees under contract of service, consistently referring to them as "trolls." The slang term "troll" is used to describe an individual who shares incendiary or irrelevant content with the intention of provoking or upsetting others on social media and various online platforms. "For the record, Mr. Chair, we don't have trolls. No troll farm, no troll army," Garafil said. Ejercito underscored the importance of "disseminating information regarding the accomplishments of the Marcos administration." Garafil, for her part, said that PCO provides accurate information as the primary source of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s messages. "Our number one priority is still, of course, communication with the President, but, of course, underlying that is what you mentioned earlier, the fight against fake news. That's why this year, we launched a media information literacy campaign to address the problem of fake news," Garafil said. Last month, PCO launched Marcos administration's Media and Information Literacy Project to combat misinformation and disinformation online. Garafil said the MIL is the administration's response to the disinformation and misinformation plaguing the country's digital landscape, focusing on capacitating the youth to become more discerning media consumers. She also emphasized that the PCO would refrain from participating in any kind of historical distortion or rewriting. "We will not engage in any form of revisionism as they claim; on the contrary, we want to... that's why this is not a fact-checking tool, we want to empower everyone, especially the youth, to see for themselves, on their own, what is really true or not. We will not revise anything," Garafil said. She also mentioned the PCO's partnership with social media platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Google, and TikTok in the fight against misinformation. Garafil expressed that the PCO favors establishing a constructive partnership with TikTok rather than opting for a platform ban. The post Marcos administration denies they maintain troll farms appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Climate change ‘dystopian future already here’: UN rights chief
Climate change is sparking human rights emergencies in numerous countries, the UN rights chief said Monday, stressing the need to fight the impunity of those who "plunder our environment". Speaking before the United Nations Human Rights Council, Volker Turk pointed to recent examples of the "environmental horror that is our global planetary crisis". He described visiting Basra, Iraq, where date palms once lined canals, but now "drought, searing heat, extreme pollution and fast-depleting supplies of fresh water are creating barren landscapes of rubble and dust". "This spiraling damage is a human rights emergency for Iraq, and many other countries," he said in his address opening the 54th council session in Geneva. "Climate change is pushing millions of people into famine. It is destroying hopes, opportunities, homes and lives. In recent months, urgent warnings have become lethal realities again and again all around the world," Turk said. "We do not need more warnings. The dystopian future is already here. We need urgent action now." Turk was speaking after the G20 at the weekend failed to commit to a phase-out of fossil fuels, something he said was desperately needed. - 'Nonchalance' at migrant deaths - At a time when the ravages of climate change are forcing more and more people to leave their homes, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said he was "shocked by the nonchalance" seen towards surging numbers of migrant deaths. "It is evident that far more migrants and refugees are dying, unnoticed," he said, pointing to the more than "2,300 people reported dead or missing in the Mediterranean this year, including the loss of more than 600 lives in a single shipwreck off Greece in June." He also highlighted migrant deaths in the English Channel, the Bay of Bengal, in the Caribbean, along the US-Mexican border, and at the Saudi border, where he said his "office is seeking urgent clarification about allegations of killings and mistreatment". The UN rights chief also highlighted a wide range of other concerning situations around the world, including in Russia, Pakistan and the Palestinian territory. On China, he reiterated concerns raised in a report by his office a year ago about the situation in the far-western Xinjiang region, which cited possible crimes against humanity against Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities. "As my Office highlighted a year ago, the concerns in the Xinjiang ... requires strong remedial action by the authorities," Turk said Monday, also voicing concern at "continued detention of human rights advocates". - 'Ecocide' - Turk also spoke about the situation in Lebanon, decrying a total lack of accountability for the 2020 Beirut port blast, that killed more than 220 people, urging "an international fact-finding mission to look into human rights violations related to this tragedy." And he mentioned the situation in Iran, one year after the death of Mahsa Amini in custody after her arrest for allegedly breaching the strict dress code for women. Turk voiced concern at a bill that would impose harsher penalties for breaching the dress code, and "renewed deployment of the morality police." Climate change and environmental degradation played a role in a number of the rights situations he mentioned, including in Africa's Sahel region. Turk insisted on the need to "counter the impunity of people and businesses who severely plunder our environment", welcoming a proposal to recognize "ecocide" as an international crime. Amid the towering problems facing the world, Turk decried "politics of deception". "Helped by new technologies, lies and disinformation are mass-produced to sow chaos, to confuse, and ultimately to deny reality and ensure no action will be taken that could endanger the interests of entrenched elites," he said. "The most apparent case of this is climate change." nl/apo/yad © Agence France-Presse The post Climate change ‘dystopian future already here’: UN rights chief appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
QCPD chief resignation accepted
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, in consultation with Philippine National Police chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., and Interior secretary Benhur Abalos, on Wednesday, has accepted the resignation of Quezon City Police District chief Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III in connection with the road rage incident involving ex-cop Wilfredo Gonzales. The dismissed police officer figured in a confrontation with a bicycle rider in Quezon City last 8 August and faced a press conference later to the chagrin of critics who claimed special treatment for the embattled Gonzales. Torre, who presided over the conference and was slammed for “defending” Gonzales, resigned from his post to give way to the investigation into the road rage incident. Belmonte said she respects Torre’s decision resignation and expressed her gratitude for the time, effort, and dedication “that he devoted to his assignment throughout his tenure.” “I understand that missteps are a part of everyone’s journey, and it is the manner in which we address them that truly defines us. His willingness to take ownership of the situation is commendable,” Belmonte said in a statement. The Supreme Court on Wednesday confirmed that the gun-toting Gonzales was a coterminous employee under the Office of Associate Justice Ricardo Rosario. Justice Rosario’s office said the ex-cop was immediately fired on 27 August, or immediately after the video of the incident became viral on social media. Justice Rosario does not condone any form of violence or abusive behavior, a media advisory from the office of Justice Rosario, and signed by Judicial Staff Head Wilhelmina Aileen Mayuga, stated. Acorda said that he already talked to Torre who he said wanted to step down just to calm the clamor for his resignation . He lauded Torre for his delicadeza. “Torre explained to me his side and to some extent, there is merit in what he said. But of course, I respect his decision,” he stressed. Torre earlier dismissed allegations that the QCPD extended special treatment to Gonzales during his supposed settlement with the cyclist, saying his personnel “acted professionally.” “I submit my resignation to the Chief PNP, to the SILG and to my NCRPO Regional Director. I need to shield my organization especially QCPD from further brickbats and backlash because well there were several things I did na hindi maganda sa (which is not good ),” Torre told reporters in a phone interview. Senate resolution Meanwhile, a resolution has been introduced in the Senate to investigate the viral road rage video. In Senate Resolution No. 763, Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri and Senator Pia Cayetano stressed that the “incident involves public order and safety, which is an important concern for everyone.” “This is a serious case involving public order and safety, which cannot simply be settled amicably and swept under the rug,” the resolution read. With Pedring Labrador The post QCPD chief resignation accepted appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Irony of corruption
Corruption has become so pervasive and brazen. Masusuka ka na (you would puke),” moaned the mayor of Dumaguete City, Felipe Remollo, at the convening Thursday of a coalition of over a hundred chiefs of local government units calling for good governance and an end to corruption at all levels of government starting within their own turfs. The coalition was sparked by Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, a former Philippine National Police official who, in a virtual speech delivered during a PNP flag-raising ceremony last July, said he was “shocked” by the gargantuan increase in the country’s national debt to nearly P14 trillion. Said Magalong: “When President Duterte started his administration, our national debt was at P5.7 trillion, accumulated over the past decades. In just seven years, our national debt increased by 142 percent; we’re now at P13.86 trillion (actually P14.10 trillion, as reported by the Bureau of the Treasury in May 2023).” He quoted then-NEDA Secretary Karl Chua as saying that the country’s ability to pay the national debt is dependent on “‘our ability to manage financial leakages.’ And so I ask, ano ba yung financial leakages (what are financial leakages)? And Sec. Chua replied, ‘ang financial leakage na sinasabi ko (that I’m telling you), a big chunk of that is attributed to corruption.’” Beyond shock, he said he was also alarmed that none of the members of Congress then and now seemed to be concerned enough to “raise hell” about the country’s tremendously rising national debt. Interviewed over local television, he said he had spoken with contractors whom he asked, “Assuming I take cuts from infrastructure projects, how much will my take be? Their answer? From 10 percent to as much as 20, 25 percent — it’s up to the mayors and lawmakers to decide how much.” Bids and awards committee members, among others, also receive commissions, thus only about 45-50 percent is left for the contractor to do the project, he learned. If the project is worth, say P100, they’ll settle for from P42.50 to P55, including their profit, so they’ll have no choice but to make sub-standard projects. Having spent 38 years of exemplary service in the Philippine National Police, retired in 2016 as Deputy Chief of Operations with a total of 166 medals to his name, including the Distinguished Conduct Star, Distinguished Service Star, and PNP Gold Cross for combat and law enforcement achievements, he said: “We in the uniformed service are willing to give up a reasonable percentage of our pension to help the national government address this huge deficit, to address this big national debt; but we have yet to hear from our legislators that they too are willing to give up their pork barrel. Let’s wait and see what our brave legislators have to say.” In the interest of objectivity, it should be said here that Baguio, in two instances, was the subject of a Commission on Audit flag-down. One instance involved Magalong’s admission that rules were eased by City Hall in the purchase of food for city residents and disinfectant at the height of the Luzon lockdown during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021. He said, however, that all the lockdown expenses were properly accounted for. CoA likewise flagged the city government on allegations that it had diversified funds to complete an infrastructure project. City Administrator Bonifacio Dela Peña maintained that the local government used the DPWH fund for its intended purpose, explaining that city hall only had a P341-million budget for a Convergence Center and it needed P50 million more to complete the project. “The word ‘misuse’ is not true. The fund was well-audited and it went to where it was allotted,” said Dela Peña. It is heartening to see that a cry in the wilderness sparks action among mayors. Theirs is a cause worthy of support by all sectors, including business and the citizenry, and we wish them all the luck in what is certain to be “an uphill climb” of sincerity and political will. The post Irony of corruption appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ipilan mining cease order backed
Puerto Princesa City, PALAWAN — Anti-mining supporters in a Southern Palawan town gathered Monday morning for a celebratory motorcade and assembly to rally behind the implementation of the cease-and-desist order issued by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples against the mining activities of Ipilan Nickel Corporation. The motorcade started from Barangay Calasaguen and passed through Barangay Maasin, the location of Ipilan’s mining operations in Brooke’s Point town, and proceeded to the poblacion area to the Octagon Plaza. They said that the move aims to increase awareness about the purpose of the CDO directed at the mining company and organizer Job Lagrada expressed gratitude to all attendees and stressed the significance of united efforts in the ongoing struggle. “The objective of this is to communicate to all of you the purpose of this CDO issued against INC. Thank you to all who participated in this activity for your continuous fight, and now we’ve been heard,” Lagrada said. Gil Valdestamon, a farmer from Barangay Aribungos supporting the anti-mining cause, also conveyed a message during the rally. Valdestamon is among the farmers opposing Ipilan’s operation, believing it will cause significant harm to Brooke’s Point, particularly the Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape where Ipilan’s mining operation is said to have encroached. “May this be a great help for us, we’ve been heard. Let’s stay united to continue our fight; we need to stand together,” Valdestamon said. Meantime, Vice Mayor Mary Jean Feliciano — a strong advocate against mining -- emphasized that the journey to uphold the writ of kalikasan and the CDO had only just begun. She also urged the youth to join the fight and make their voices heard, sharing her own experience of suspension due to accusations of abusing power. “This writ of kalikasan and CDO are really just the beginning; the journey is far from over. Let’s fight for this. To the youth, stand up for this. You remember, I was suspended because they said I abused my mayoral powers,” Feliciano said. “Even though the law is good, if this is how it’s interpreted, where else can I turn? I’ve done nothing but pray, and my daily prayer is that they won’t be given silence because what they’re doing is wrong,” she added. She also discussed concerns about the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, highlighting past resolutions that have been proposed. Feliciano questioned why the mining activities of Ipilan, operating without proper permits and compliance, had not been adequately addressed. “The DENR, MGB, we’ve had numerous resolutions since then. This is the mine without permits, without CP. Why haven’t you taken action?” Feliciano said. Last week, Ipilan acknowledged the Supreme Court’s decision to issue a writ of kalikasan as the ruling offers them an opportunity to address and refute repetitive baseless allegations, which have consistently been disproven by various government entities. According to the mining company, the ruling does not disrupt Ipilan’s activities since the request for a Temporary Environmental Protection Order has been declined. It added that it contrary to claims, they refrained from mining within the overlapping area in Mt. Mantalingahan, and that allegations related to tree-cutting activities were conducted under the authority of a valid permit, upheld by the court. The post Ipilan mining cease order backed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Embattled Palawan mining company bows to SC ruling
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — Mining firm Ipilan Nickel Corporation in Palawan welcomed the Supreme Court’s issuance of a writ of kalikasan as it said offers the opportunity to clarify “recurring baseless allegations” regarding its business. Ipilan Nickel Corporation or Ipilan also reaffirmed its commitment to adhere to the responsible mining regulations mandated by the government which includes practices and policies aimed at minimizing environmental impact, ensuring the welfare of local communities, and following sustainable mining practices. In a statement on Thursday, Ipilan said that the SC’s decision is an opportunity for it to clarify and refute recurring baseless allegations about its operation in Barangay Maasin in Brooke’s Point town, which various government organizations have consistently proven to be untrue. “This ruling does not interrupt Ipilan’s operations, as the petition for a Temporary Environmental Protection Order has been rejected,” said Ipilan. “We welcome this development as an opportunity to address and dispel recurring baseless allegations that have consistently been refuted by various governmental bodies.” Ipilan added that the petition against its mining operation is filled with distortions and inaccuracies, implying an intention to weaken its lawful activities by inciting negative opinions about mining and misleading the public. Unlike the claims of the petitioner, the mining firm claimed that it obtained an exemption Certification Precondition from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples in 2006. It also contended that the validation of pre-existing contracts like the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement with the government is backed by Proclamation 1815, which identifies the Mt. Mantalingahan Mountain Range as a safeguarded zone. “It is important to note that the company refrains from mining within the overlapping area. The allegations related to tree-cutting activities were conducted under the authority of a valid permit, upheld by the court,” Ipilan said. Encompassing 120,457 hectares across the municipalities of Bataraza, Brooke’s Point, Quezon, Rizal, and Sofronio Espanola in Southern Palawan, the mountain range serves as a vital biodiversity hotspot, providing habitat for a diverse array of plants and animals. Meantime, anti-mining group Environmental Legal Assistance Center, represented by its executive director Atty. Grizelda Mayo-Anda, also welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision as a favorable “precedent” for the province known as a Biosphere Reserve. Anti-mining advocates claim that aside from not having CP that verifies the completion of the free and prior informed consent process with Indigenous Cultural Communities and Indigenous Peoples for projects, Ipilan’s mining operation is also gravely affecting Mt. Mantalingahan. The post Embattled Palawan mining company bows to SC ruling appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»