We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
Delivery drivers urge Mayor Baste for business permit exemption
Title: Delivery Drivers Seek Exemption from Business Permit Requirement A group of delivery drivers in Davao is urging Mayor Sebastian Duterte to exempt them from the mandatory business permits. The drivers, including those from various delivery apps such as Grab and FoodPanda, are concerned about the financial burden imposed by the business permits, which range from P2,000 to P6,000. They argue that this requirement is unique to Davao City among all cities and provinces in the Philippines. Grab rider Rolando Atico emphasized the need for solidarity among all delivery drivers, regardless of the app they work for. He urged fellow drivers to support each other, as the financial impact may extend beyond just Grab and FoodPanda. Atico also requested Mayor Duterte to reconsider the requirement and reinstate the previous occupational permit, which only cost P125. The group is facing a 30-day deadline to obtain the business permits, and they are citing financial constraints as a reason for their request for an extension. Failure to comply could result in their removal from the delivery platforms, jeopardizing their livelihoods. Additionally, they are advocating for changes to Davao City's Revenue Code, proposing a model similar to Cebu City, where only an occupational permit is required. The drivers are also calling for an inquiry into the lack of transparency and unilateral actions of food delivery companies, particularly concerning rider capitalization and financial concerns. They believe that a thorough investigation will help ensure fairness and equity in their financial obligations and working relationship with the delivery companies. Maribel Paguican, the Business Bureau officer-in-charge, stated that non-certified delivery riders categorized as service contractors must obtain a business permit. She mentioned two permits for occupational and business activities, with a discounted structure for delivery riders. However, concerns have been raised about increased taxes, potentially ranging from P3,000 to P6,000, along with an additional tax on top of the declared income of P1,400. The delivery drivers' plea for exemption from the business permit requirement reflects their concerns about the financial impact and the potential threat to their livelihoods. Their call for solidarity and support from fellow drivers highlights the urgency of the situation. This story sheds light on the challenges faced by delivery drivers in Davao and the implications of the business permit requirement on their financial well-being. It also underscores their efforts to seek fairness and equity in their working relationship with the authorities and delivery companies......»»
'Will not leave any stone unturned to repay this debt of affection': PM Modi in J-K
Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], March 7 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended gratitude to the people of Jammu and Kashmir for the affection he has received and said that he will not leave any stone unturned to repay this debt of affection. "Modi will not leave any stone unturned to repay this debt of affection. I am doing all this hard work to win your hearts and I believe that I am on the right.....»»
'Will not leave any stone unturned to repay this debt of affection': PM Modi in J-K
Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], March 7 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended gratitude to the people of Jammu and Kashmir for the affection he has received and said that he will not leave any stone unturned to repay this debt of affection. "Modi will not leave any stone unturned to repay this debt of affection. I am doing all this hard work to win your hearts and I believe that I am on the right.....»»
Council to appeal March 1 as special non-working holiday in Davao City
The Davao City Council is seeking to appeal to the national government to declare March 1 as a non-working holiday in honor of Araw ng Davao, the city's founding anniversary. Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre emphasized the importance of this appeal for the people of Davao, expressing hope that the president will grant their request. This initiative comes as a response to a new bill that designates March 1 as the new founding anniversary, shifting the traditional celebration date from March 16. Despite the bill and law designating March 1 as a working holiday, the council aims to annually request Malacañang to recognize it as a non-working holiday. The appeal is intended to ensure that Dabawenyos can actively participate in the festivities. Additionally, the executive committee of Araw ng Davao is in the final stages of organizing events and activities for the celebration. Discussions have been ongoing, with plans anticipated to be finalized soon. This move reflects the council's commitment to honoring and celebrating the city's heritage and traditions......»»
Davao Light pushes for paperless billing
The Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. (Davao Light) is advocating for paperless billing, citing its positive impact on the environment. Fermin Edillon, the head of the Reputation Enhancement Department at Davao Light, emphasized the company's large customer base and the significant paper consumption associated with traditional billing. He highlighted the environmental benefits of opting for paperless bills, urging Dabawenyos to consider this eco-friendly alternative. Despite the availability of paperless billing options, Edillon acknowledged that some still prefer traditional paper bills. However, Davao Light has enhanced its paperless bill services, offering options such as the MobileAP app for internet users and the Ebill text option for those without internet access. While promoting paperless billing, Edillon clarified that traditional paper bills will still be available. Residents expressed support for paperless billing, citing its convenience, but also emphasized the need for considerations, especially for those less proficient with technology. The push for paperless billing aligns with efforts to reduce environmental impact and enhance customer convenience......»»
Globe reports steep 73.7% decline in blocked bank-related spam, scam SMS in 2023
The telecommunications company Globe has reported a significant 73.7% decrease in the number of blocked spam and scam SMS related to banks in 2023. This reduction is a result of the interception of 21.9 million bank-related fraudulent messages, a sharp decline from the 83.39 million messages blocked the previous year. Globe attributes this achievement to its proactive strategies and strong partnerships with major banks and financial institutions in the Philippines. The company has established anti-fraud alliances with the Bankers Association of the Philippines and individual players in the finance sector, enabling the sharing of data and intelligence to prevent and investigate fraud effectively. Anton Bonifacio, Chief Information Security Officer at Globe, emphasized the company's commitment to combating financial fraud and enhancing security measures for customer protection. Globe has invested approximately US$20 million to improve its spam and scam SMS detection and blocking system and operates a 24/7 Security Operations Center to filter out unwanted messages from both international and domestic sources. Despite certain limitations, Globe remains dedicated to customer protection and emphasizes the need for a unified approach in the fight against fraud. The company is focused on leveraging technology and strengthening alliances with key stakeholders to combat fraudulent activities. As Globe continues to advance its technologies and collaborations, it aims to provide a safer and more secure digital environment for its customers. For more information about Globe and its initiatives, visit www.globe.com.ph. (SPONSORED CONTENT).....»»
An advocate for IBD
You’ll forgive me this “proud papa” moment if I preface this week’s column with the news that our unica hija Demi Dalisay Ricario, who’s unbelievably turning 50 later this year, represented Asian-Americans – and indeed the Philippines – on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC recently to lobby for changes in US health laws on behalf of patients......»»
Travel agencies group warns about cheap, illegal operators
The Davao Travel Agencies Association (DTAA) has issued a warning about unregistered and illegal travel and tour operators in their area. These operators have been found to be offering travel and tour services without proper licensing, leading to issues such as lack of refunds, scheduling problems, and other travel arrangement discrepancies. Pia Partoza Montano, a travel agency owner and Vice-President for the Travel and Tours Sector of DTAA, emphasized the prevalence of these unauthorized operators, particularly in inbound tourism, and the challenges in monitoring and regulating them due to their large numbers. Montano also highlighted the potential risks associated with using these unregistered agencies, as they may offer cheaper rates but could lead to problems in case of incidents. To address this issue, the Department of Tourism-Davao (DOT-Davao) has introduced a QR code system to help the public verify the legitimacy of travel agencies by accessing data on authorized and registered operators. The DOT-Davao encourages travelers to transact with accredited enterprises to ensure the quality and reliability of their travel arrangements. Currently, there are at least 109 registered travel and tour agencies in Davao City under DOT-Davao's accreditation. The DOT-Davao also provides information on the requirements for registration and renewal for travel agencies on their official website. This warning serves as a reminder for the public to be cautious and discerning when engaging with travel and tour operators to avoid falling victim to unauthorized and illegitimate services......»»
Paddleboarding: Why you should try this water sport
CEBU CITY, Philippines— How’s your balancing skill? Are you ready to test it on a paddleboard? If you’re having second thoughts, maybe you’d want to check out this episode of CDN Sportstalk, which tackles this watersport. What makes paddleboarding exciting? Well for one, it can be enjoyed on the beach, which Cebu is known for......»»
10th ID bashes Canadian gov’t for travel advisory vs Mindanao
The 10th Infantry Agila Division (10ID) of the Philippine Army criticized the Canadian government for issuing a travel advisory against all parts of Mindanao, which includes their area of responsibility. Major Mark Anthony Tito, spokesperson for the 10th ID, emphasized that the regions under their jurisdiction are peaceful and free from terrorism and violent threats, contrary to the Canadian embassy's advisory. The division oversees 12 provinces, seven cities, and 72 municipalities in various parts of Mindanao. Tito expressed bewilderment at the basis of the travel advisory, asserting that the Canadian government lacks awareness of the actual situation on the ground. He highlighted the peaceful nature of the entire Davao Region throughout 2023, with no recorded incidents of terrorism or insurgency. Despite the exclusion of Davao City from the advisory, Tito noted that the region would still be impacted. The Canadian embassy's advisory warned its citizens to avoid visiting Mindanao due to ongoing terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, high levels of violence, and encounters between rebel forces and government security authorities. Specific provinces and regions were singled out for caution or non-essential travel, including Northern Mindanao, Soccsksargen, and Eastern Mindanao. Contrary to the advisory, the 10th ID has been actively weakening and eliminating guerilla forces within its jurisdiction as part of the Philippine Army's efforts to establish an insurgency-free zone. In fact, on October 27, 2023, the Davao Region celebrated its first anniversary as an insurgency-free region in the Philippines. This dispute has led to other related stories, including the Chamber's intention to engage in discussions with the Canadian government regarding the travel advisory, as well as refutations from the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and celebrations of the Davao Region's insurgency-free status by the Regional Peace and Order Council. In summary, the 10th ID vehemently opposes the Canadian government's travel advisory, citing the peaceful and secure nature of the regions under their jurisdiction, and highlighting the significant strides made in eradicating insurgency in the Davao Region......»»
Philippines logs 40 pertussis deaths this year
MANILA, March 28 (Xinhua) -- Forty children have died of whopping cough, a respiratory infection also called pertussis, since this year, the Philippines' Department of Health (DOH) has reported. The DOH said in a statement on Wednesday that cases have continued to increase since the start of this year, recording 568 cases from Jan. 1 to March 16. "The total number of cases for the same period in 2023 was.....»»
Councilor urges social media influencers to observe local laws
The Davao City councilor, Temujin “Tek” Ocampo, has urged social media influencers to familiarize themselves with local ordinances before promoting areas to their followers. Ocampo, who heads the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, appreciates the promotion of Davao City by social media influencers but emphasizes the importance of understanding local laws before attracting crowds to specific areas. He expressed gratitude for the promotion but highlighted the challenge of controlling the influx of people once a location is featured. Ocampo plans to collaborate with Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, Chair of the Committee on Tourism and Beautification, to accredit social media vloggers through the local government unit. He underscored the need for accredited vloggers, recognizing their contributions to the city and addressing any mistakes they might make. This initiative aims to balance recognition for positive actions with corrective measures for any missteps. The concerns arose in November 2023 when a Davao City-based environment group criticized a travel vlogger for promoting recreational activities in a river within the Panigan-Tamugan Watershed. Following a waste dumping incident on January 11, 2024, the group urged Dabawenyos, especially vloggers and influencers, to refrain from visiting protected areas for leisure. They emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting rules and regulations before endorsing specific parts of the city......»»
Watch vivo V30 Series Grand Launch on March 20
Get ready for an electrifying event as vivo announces the grand launch of the highly anticipated vivo V30 Series on March 20, 2024. The V30 Series will feature the groundbreaking ZEISS Triple Main Camera system on the V30 Pro, promising unmatched clarity and detail in photos and videos. Viewers can join the excitement through the Facebook livestream, where they will also be treated to a special appearance by ambassador Anne Curtis. Industry experts will share their insights on the innovative features of the V30 Series, making this event a must-watch for photography enthusiasts. Don't miss out on this opportunity to witness the future of mobile photography. Follow vivo on various social media platforms for updates and exclusive content. (SPONSORED CONTENT).....»»
Senate probe ‘incriminatory’, says Quiboloy’s lawyer on why he won’t attend it
MANILA, Philippines — “Incriminatory.” This was how the camp of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy looked at him attending the Senate hearing. So this was why Quiboloy remained to not incline to attend the hearing. This would compromise his client’s appearance, said Quiboloy, through his lawyer, Melanio Balayan. “We still believe that the.....»»
NICE, Ganda! NICE, SARAP! McDonald’s comes out with oh-so-satisfying Chicken McDo
Summary: McDonald’s Introduces Bigger, Juicier, and Crispier Chicken McDo McDonald’s has unveiled an enhanced version of its beloved Chicken McDo, promising a more satisfying and flavorful experience for chicken enthusiasts. The new and improved Chicken McDo boasts larger and juicier cuts, coupled with a revamped breading process that results in a crispier and flakier skin. This upgrade aims to elevate the dining experience, ensuring that every bite is succulent and fulfilling. In addition to the enhanced chicken offering, McDonald’s is also introducing value-packed meal options to cater to different preferences. Customers can indulge in the 1pc Chicken McDo with DOUBLE Rice for a hearty and filling meal, or opt for the 1pc Chicken McDo with McFloat for a refreshing accompaniment. The reimagined Chicken McDo has garnered praise from renowned personality Vice Ganda, who has expressed her delight with the improvements. McDonald’s has made the new Chicken McDo available for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, and delivery, ensuring that customers can savor its delectable taste at their convenience. For those eager to explore more exciting deals and promotions related to the Chicken McDo, McDonald’s encourages users to download the McDonald’s App and McDelivery App, and stay updated on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. Overall, McDonald’s Chicken McDo aims to satisfy cravings with its bigger, juicier, and crispier appeal, offering a delectable chicken experience that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere......»»
Holy Week drugs: CV police seize P39.3M in illegal drugs
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Holy Week drugs worth P39,370,368 were seized by Central Visayas police who also apprehended 1,296 suspects during this period. According to data from the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7), this accomplishment was the result of unrelenting police operations conducted from March 24-31, 2024. PRO-7 earlier relayed that this year’s.....»»
No major surprises, but still a colorful Oscars night
“I had a nightmare about this last night. Thank you so much to the Academy. I just didn’t think this would happen. I was not expecting this. I feel so incredibly lucky and honored!” A stunned Billie Eilish exclaimed Sunday night after she won her second Oscar......»»
P146 billion airport contracts set for signing this year
The Department of Transportation will sign this year more than P146 billion worth of contracts for the privatization of four airports, freeing up fiscal space for the government and building up the public-private partnership landscape......»»
Daily Gospel, January 20, 2024
This is the Daily Gospel for today, Saturday, January 20, 2024, of the Second week in Ordinary Time. (Mark 3, 20-21) Jesus came with his disciples into the house. Again the crowd gathered, making it impossible for them even to eat. When his relatives heard of this they set out to seize him, for they.....»»
Higher power rates in Baguio, Benguet this month
Electricity bills in this city and Benguet will increase this month......»»