Top 100 beaches: El Nido ranks 4th, Boracay 19th
For beach lovers who are still undecided on where to go this summer, the ranking of two Philippine beaches among the “Top 100 beaches on Earth 2023” might help......»»
Cabugao setting up Sabang boardwalk
CABUGAO, Ilocos Sur — A uniquely-designed and one of its kind Boardwalk will soon be set up in the coastal barangay Sabang, this town, Congressman Ronald V. Singson revealed yesterday. Singson (1st district) said that the project will start this year, making this town more attractive to tourists. “In fact, there is already an initial fund for the project,” Singson told this writer. With its sandy beaches and crystal clear water, Cabugao town is now fast emerging as tourism site in Northern Ilocos Sur. Only recently, a luxury cruise ship docked at the Salomague Port in Cabugao, with about 500 passengers from the United States and Europe. The Silversea Cruises's Silver Spirit, was the first international cruise ship to dock at the Salomague port in three years since the pandemic began. Governor Jeremias “Jerry" Singson said that Ilocos Sur is a safe destination for tourists. Newsmen learned that the Salomague port has been upgraded in 2021 with a reinforced concrete Platform Back-Up Area and RC Pier Extension to attract cruise calls in this northern Luzon island, which is strategically located near the popular beaches and heritage sites of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. Meanwhile, Mayor Michael Miranda of Santiago town revealed that he had already asked funds for the beautification of the Santiago Cove, called “Little Boracay of the North.” With its Mini Santorini-like hotel called Vitalis, Santiago Cove hotel and others, Santiago is now the fast emerging tourism site in the province. The post Cabugao setting up Sabang boardwalk appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pampanga’s Best Western Plus redesigns for MICE tourism
The hotel industry shared the biggest burden from the lockdowns brought on by the two-year pandemic. This, however, forced hotel owners to redesign their facilities to cater to customers besides tourists. To appeal to more businesspeople, the four-star Best Western Plus hotel in Pampanga is upgrading into a lifestyle center and food destination. “The opening of the new wing of the Best Western Plus hotel came at the right time. We were building it and deciding almost every day as the pandemic unfolded. We had to decide, follow through and look past the pandemic,” Jack Uy, chairman and chief executive officer of Savers Group Holdings, Inc. told the Daily Tribune. Uy said the hotel is still being renovated to add retail shops after welcoming its first guests in March at the new wing with 186 rooms along MacArthur Highway, Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga. [caption id="attachment_131550" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Presidential Suite.[/caption] He said the hotel has expanded through its lifestyle center, which occupies an entire building floor and features modern, luxurious and globally branded appliances and furniture for home, office and industrial. These cater to customer segments consisting of businesspeople and those in the middle to upper socioeconomic classes with more sophisticated tastes and combine business and leisure. “We call this our lifestyle center. People now shop because they build a lifestyle more than fulfilling a need. So, they’re not looking for just one or two items but everything that matches their lifestyles, from the appliance to the furniture,” Uy said. [caption id="attachment_131551" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Conference Room.[/caption] Uy said most of their guests, or 70 percent, are corporate executives and staff from local and multinational firms who gather for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibits tourism. “Unlike other provinces, Pampanga does not have a lot of natural attractions like the beaches in Boracay or Palawan. That’s why over half of our visitors check in because of company meetings, events and team-building activities. It helps that we’re located near the airport and Clark Freeport Zone, an economic zone.” Property consultancy Colliers Philippines said Pampanga housed 36 percent of all offices in the country’s provinces. Information technology and business process outsourcing firms expanded outside Metro Manila in the first quarter of this year. This industry is expected to grow further by eight percent to 10 percent each year, as the Philippines has emerged as the world’s top IT-BPO destination, according to US-based Nexford University. [caption id="attachment_131552" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Lobby.[/caption] Last year, Colliers reported the Philippine Economic Zone Authority identified 42 ecozones in Central Luzon, including Pampanga, as the location for biotech centers, defense industrial complexes, halal and food production hubs, and jewelry parks, among others. The move is part of the government’s Philippine Development Plan 2023 to 2028. The hotel also features several restaurants serving international cuisines: Mexican at Cactus Jack Smokehouse, Japanese at Namari, and Hong Kong at Legend. “Most people also visit Pampanga as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines. But we want our local and foreign guests to have as diverse experiences as possible,” Uy said. The post Pampanga’s Best Western Plus redesigns for MICE tourism appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Making the most of Philippine Summer
Despite perennially reeling from the scorching heat, Filipinos nevertheless look forward to summer to take a break from the rigors of daily life and enjoy the sun, sand and sea. The months of March to May is always a time to enjoy the outdoors, as the Philippines, being a tropical country, is replete with summer destinations that local and foreign tourists go gaga about. Topping these getaway spots, hands down is the beach. With over 7,000 islands, the country boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Among the most popular are Boracay, Palawan and Siargao — all known for their crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands and stunning sunsets. [caption id="attachment_129829" align="aligncenter" width="525"] A boy ignoring warnings not to swim in polluted Manila Bay dives in to beat the summer heat as boats prepare for the fist annual regatta, 26 May 2002, aimed at increasing public awareness on the environment. The Philippine government has been taking steps to clean-up the historic bay, famed for its breath-taking sunsets, which has become a depository for trash and industrial waste in recent years. AFP PHOTO/Joel NITO (Photo by JOEL NITO / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_129827" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Tourists relax along a beach in Boracay island in Malay town, Aklan province, central Philippines on April 7, 2018. - The Philippine tourism industry scrambled on April 6 to manage the fallout from the temporary shutdown of its world-famous Boracay island, which threw into chaos trips planned by hundreds of thousands of tourists. (Photo by AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_129828" align="aligncenter" width="525"] A surfer takes advantage of the conditions at Big Wave Bay on the southern side of Hong Kong island 05 July 2001 as tyhoon 'Utor' heads nearer to the territory after lashing southern Taiwan and the Philippines. 'Utor' one of the biggest typhoons to hit the South China Sea in thirty years is expected to hit landfall in southern China tommorrow morning coming close to Hong Kong at the same time.AFP PHOTO/Peter PARKS (Photo by PETER PARKS / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_129830" align="aligncenter" width="525"] A tourist goes airborne while kite boarding in the waters of Boracay island on November 9, 2008. The white sand beach resort island is in center of controversy as investors and property owners accused the government of land grabbing following the 2006 proclamation by the Philippine government that the entire island belongs to the state. Boracay island located in central Philippines draws half a million tourists each year to its spectacular beaches, more than one sixth of tourist visitors to the country. AFP PHOTO/JAY DIRECTO (Photo by JAY DIRECTO / AFP)[/caption] Aside from the beach, summertime is a chance to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and island hopping. Tourists take advantage of the summer months to explore the natural beauty of the country. [caption id="attachment_129826" align="aligncenter" width="525"] This picture taken on October 12, 2019 shows members of Myanmar's national surfing team resting during a competition on Ngwe Saung beach in Irrawaddy division, ahead of the upcoming Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in the Philippines. - Competitive surfing was barely known in Myanmar a few years ago but a group of super-stoked dudes and dudettes from a local beach town are riding a wave of enthusiasm to the Southeast Asian Games for the first time ever. (Photo by Ye Aung THU / AFP)[/caption] Among the more popular hiking spots are Mt. Pulag, Mt. Batulao and Mt Pinatubo which all offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Of course, we should not forget that summer in the Philippines is also a time for festivities. One of the most celebrated festivals during this season is the Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, Quezon. The festival is held every May in honor of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. During the event, the town is decorated with colorful kiping (rice wafers) and other agricultural products. [caption id="attachment_129831" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Children on a float made of native materials and decorated with vegetables and rice stalks parade on the streets for a contest ahead of the annual "Pahiyas" harvest festival in the town of Lucban, in Quezon province, south of Manila, 14 May 2005. During the festival, residents use native plants, vegetable products and rice paper to decorate their floats, homes and vehicles in imaginative ways. AFP PHOTO/JAY DIRECTO (Photo by JAY DIRECTO / AFP)[/caption] Another popular festival during this time is the Kadayawan Festival in Davao City. The festival is held every August and is a celebration of the city’s bountiful harvest. It is a colorful event that features street dancing, music and a parade of flowers. Whatever one fancies to beat the summer heat, there is always something to look forward to hereabouts. Whether one wants to relax, go on an adventure or celebrate, one can find it here in a paradise even tourists call paradise. The post Making the most of Philippine Summer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Anda, Bohol resort owners want town’s environmental fee policy scratched
TAGBILARAN CITY — Resort owners in Anda, Bohol have opposed the implementation of a P30 environmental fee for every person entering the municipality known for its pristine white sand beaches. Resort owners Anastacio Daniel Jr. of Anda de Boracay, Edil Tan of Anda Global 1 & 2, and Filomina White of Bitoon White Beach asked Anda Mayor Angelina […] The post Anda, Bohol resort owners want town’s environmental fee policy scratched appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
The celebrity chef series at Lime Resort El Nido
El Nido is known for its stunning limestone cliffs, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters, and one of the most popular (and largest) hotels there is Lime Resort El Nido......»»
Deanna Wong kinawayan at nginitian ang isang fan sa El Nido, bumabawi nga ba matapos ang ‘pangdededma’ issue?
MATAPOS ang isyu patungkol sa diumano’y pang-iisnab ng volleyball player na si Deanna Wong ay nanatili itong tahimik mula sa akusasyon sa kanya sa social media. Ngunit pinatunayan ng ibang mga fans na walang katotohanan ang mga ito at marahil “pagod” lang ang dalaga o gusto lamang i-enjoy ang kanilang bakasyon sa Boracay. Sa katunayan, […] The post Deanna Wong kinawayan at nginitian ang isang fan sa El Nido, bumabawi nga ba matapos ang ‘pangdededma’ issue? appeared first on Bandera......»»
Janella at Markus, nagpapakontrobersyal!
Manila, Philippines – Kung titingnang mabuti, mukahang wala namang isyu sa pagitan nina Janella Salvador at Markus Paterson. Maraming netizens nga ang nagsasabing sinasadya lang ng dalawa na magpakakontrobersyal. Tulad halimbawa ng paglilimayon ng mag- inang Janella at Baby Jude Trevor kamakailan sa Boracay at sinundan pa sa El Nido, Palawan. In both instances, hindi […] The post Janella at Markus, nagpapakontrobersyal! appeared first on REMATE ONLINE......»»
El Nido beach da best sa daigdig
Sa listahan ng 50 ‘Best Beaches in the World’ na inilabas kamakailan ng global travel website na Big 7 Travel, pumasok sa Top 10 ang Secret Lagoon sa El Nido, Palawan. The post El Nido beach da best sa daigdig first appeared on Abante......»»
Baguio, Boracay, El Nido bar tourists anew
Popular tourist destinations Baguio, Boracay and El Nido have either barred visitors or imposed tourist limits again as local government units try to keep the COVID-19 situation in their area under control......»»
Delayed vaccine to spoil Filipinos summer on already deserted beaches
Pre-pandemic, the world-renowned Boracay island is among the biggest drivers of tourists in the country......»»
Netizens napa-wow sa swimsuit photo ni Kathryn; KathNiel muling nagtampisaw sa El Nido, Palawan
HASHTAG #SanaAll! Yan ang nagkakaisang komento ng mga netizens nang bumandera ang mga litrato nina Kathryn Bernardo at Daniel Padilla sa napakagandang resort sa El Nido, Palawan. Matapos ngang magbakasyon sa isla ng Boracay nitong nagdaang holiday season, sa Palawan naman nagpakaligaya ang Kapamilya couple kasama ang kanilang pamilya at ilang malalapit na kaibigan. Habang […] The post Netizens napa-wow sa swimsuit photo ni Kathryn; KathNiel muling nagtampisaw sa El Nido, Palawan appeared first on Bandera......»»
Zubiri: Senate eyes 3rd reading approval for Maharlika Fund, other priority bills
MANILA, Philippines— The Senate is expected to approve on third and final reading the Maharlika Investment Fund Act before the sine die adjournment of the 19th Congress’ first regular session, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said on Saturday. This comes after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in a letter to Zubiri on May 22, certified the […] The post Zubiri: Senate eyes 3rd reading approval for Maharlika Fund, other priority bills appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
WFA in Boracay
The Wushu Federation Philippines will host the 52nd Wushu Federation of Asia Executive Committee meeting in Boracay today......»»
Comelec: Tulfo ACT-CIS assumption no problem
The Commission on Elections disclosed on Friday that there would be no problem for Erwin Tulfo to assume the vacant seat of Anti-Crime and Terrorism Community Involvement and Support or ACT-CIS Partylist as their fourth nominee. This comes after the poll body’s Second Division’s junked the disqualification petition filed against Tulfo over “lack of jurisdiction” due to the petition being filed out of the prescribed time by the poll body. “The petition was in fact dismissed, and then at any time, Tulfo can, in fact, ascend to the post, take the oath of office and assume that post,” said Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco. The petition challenged Tulfo’s assumption of the third ACT-CIS seat vacated by their third nominee, Jeffrey Soriano, who resigned last February. Based on rules of succession, Tulfo, being the fourth nominee in this case, should assume the post. To recall, ACT-CIS led the party-list race in last year’s elections, gaining 2,111,091 or 5.74-percent of the votes, making them the sole party to gain three seats in the 19th Congress. However, Tolentino’s petition raised concerns over Tulfo’s citizenship and previous membership in the United States’ Army, as well as his libel conviction in 2008 on ‘Tulfo v. People of the Philippines.’ In their resolution, the Comelec Second Division argued that the petition for disqualification filed by Atty. Moises Tolentino against Tulfo was long after the proclamation of ACT-CIS and its three seats in Congress on 26 May last year. Laudiangco said that the decision will be deemed final and executory five days after the promulgation – or at 30 April, unless challenged through a motion for reconsideration by Tolentino or if the Supreme Court intervened. “After the lapse of the said period on 30 May, if the petitioner failed to file a motion for the consideration, then the decision will become final and executory, unless of course, [it will be] restrained by the Supreme Court,” said Laudiangco. The post Comelec: Tulfo ACT-CIS assumption no problem appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bohol, primus inter pares among tourism gems
This country’s stunning natural wonders never fail to amaze with Bohol, at this juncture, getting the world to beam a spotlight on us after the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization designated the island province the Philippines’ first UNESCO Global Geopark. Created in 2015, the UNESCO Global Geopark label recognizes the geological heritage of international significance. Seventeen other new sites, other than Bohol, were likewise declared global geoparks by UNESCO during its 216th Executive Board Session in Paris, France on 24 May. These are Cacapava and Quarta Colonia in Brazil; Lavreotiki in Greece; Ijen, Maros Pangkep, Merangin Jambi, and Raja Ampat in Indonesia; Aras and Tabas in Iran; Hakusan Tedorigawa in Japan; Kinabalu in Malaysia; Waitaki Whitestone in New Zealand; Sunnhordland in Norway; Jeonbuk West Coast in South Korean; Cabo Ortegal in Spain; Khorat in Thailand; and Mourne Gullion Strangford in the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. Altogether, the 18 new sites bring the total number of UNESCO Global Geoparks to 195 in 48 countries. What qualifies an area to become a UNESCO Global Geopark? Basically, there must exist in the area discernibly significant geological heritage of international value, as determined by an independent evaluation team of scientific professionals. UNESCO took note of Bohol’s growing fame as a “prime eco-cultural destination with its pristine beaches, diving spots, magnificent geological formations, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage.” Bohol’s Global Geopark journey started in 2013 with the arrival of a research team from the UP — School of Urban and Regional Planning in the province. The researchers were going around the country looking for an area with a range of geological heritage significant enough to be submitted for UNESCO’s consideration as a Global Geopark candidate. Partnering with the Bohol provincial government and guided by the Philippine National Commission for UNESCO, the UP-SURP researchers conducted extensive studies and investigations, and, in 2015, the island was deemed possessed with the best possible qualifications as a global geopark, for UNESCO’s consideration. Eight years later, UNESCO included Bohol in its new list of sites labeled a Global Geopark. Predictably cited by UNESCO were Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, that is, conical karst hills made of grass-covered limestone formed ages ago by the uplift of coral deposits, and Danajon Bank or Double Barrier Reef. Consisting of three large sets of offshore coral reefs stretching across 130 kilometers, it is the only double barrier reef in the Philippines, one of only three such sites in the Indo-Pacific region, and one of only six documented barrier reefs on Earth. Also highlighted by UNESCO is the highest waterfall in Bohol, the stunning 60-meter three-tiered Can-umantad waterfalls, as well as the otherworldly phenomenal Loon Coastal Geomorphic Conservation Park. Covering 417 hectares, the area’s shoreline areas were raised during the catastrophic 7.2-magnitude earthquake that devastated Bohol in 2013. Locals now refer to it as Coral Gardens; when the 2013 quake struck, the former inter-tidal zone where the tide submerges or exposes the land was heaved up 1.5 meters, even as the shoreline shifted 50 meters towards the sea. Today, the entire area is an uplifted marine terrace completely on dry land, teeming with sea purslane, that is, creeping succulent seagrass whose color is red and orange on sunlit days, and changes to green when it rains. Other amazing natural features in Bohol are blue-water cave pools, including the Cabagnow cave pool in Anda which is the deepest — some 25 feet — among cave pools in the province and are similar to Central America’s cenotes, which are natural pits of sinkholes connected to the sea. Visitors to Bohol have invariably been bowled over by its pristine clear waters and its lush, breathtaking landscapes — a manifestation of its geologic history as evidenced by its varied, unique landforms and structural features. Divers worldwide know of Bohol’s famed dazzling dive spots such as the one off Pamilacan island, teeming with marine life, including dolphins and pilot whales, and the crystal clear waters off Balicasag, with its spectacular marine sanctuary brimming with diverse coral and pelagic species, its vertical coral walls plunging deep into the depths. The waters surrounding Panglao Island contain more marine biodiversity than Japan and the Mediterranean Sea combined. Bohol, replete as it is with marine and geologic gems, is a class apart from all other tourist draws this country has to offer; its natural wonders are more than enough to seal its reputation many times over as among the most stunning spots on this planet to travel to and see before one breaths his (or her) last. It is totally easy to see and understand how and why Bohol was recognized by UNESCO as a Global Geopark. The question is, what took the UN agency so long? The post Bohol, primus inter pares among tourism gems appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards: Why it’s significant
Last 28 March I was invited by the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards chairman Jayr Villaruel of District 3850 to be the opening plenary speaker of RYLA, which was held on Boracay Island from 28-39 March at the Pinnacle Hotel. Upon receiving the invitation, I immediately confirmed my attendance as I am a great supporter and mentor of the Rotaractors. When I arrived in Boracay, Jayr met me at the airport and we rode a tricycle to the wharf to reach the mainland. We proceeded to the Pinnacle Hotel, where we were served with a glass of cool fruit juice — a perfect foil to the relentless summer heat. During this convention, I was able to interact, discuss and observe the many Rotaractors from three Districts, namely 3850, 3810 and 3820. I was impressed by their commitment, dedication and dreams for their Rotaract Clubs that create and transform the communities they live in and work with in their various activities. These youth, with ages ranging from 14-30, prepared a challenging program of leadership training, forums and social interaction. The program was designed to enhance their personal development, leadership skills, communication and good citizenship. [caption id="attachment_137039" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photograph Courtesy of BING CARRION | These young people, aged 14-30, prepared a challenging program of leadership training, forums and social interaction.[/caption] The RYLA program started in Australia in 1959 when young people throughout the state of Queensland were selected to meet with Princess Alexandra, the young cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II. The Brisbane Rotarians who hosted the participants were so impressed with the young people and decided to bring youth leaders together each year for a week of social, cultural and educational activities. In 1971, the Rotary International Board adopted RYLA to be part of the official Rotary program during the Rotary International Convention — their program scheduled a day before the official opening. What is particularly significant about my interaction with the Rotaractors in Boracay were their honest sharings of their dreams, aspirations and angst with me. One particular Rotaractor from Kalibo, named Mark Anthony Dolinog from the indigenous tribe of Libacao, strongly expressed his appreciation and thanks for the speech I delivered because he said it inspired him to do even more than what he has achieved so far in his life. My challenge of “Yes we can change the world” resonated with him and all the Rotaractors in the ballroom as they broke into thunderous applause to my great joy. What a most uplifting weekend it was. My interaction with the young Rotaractors validates my belief that there is HOPE in the world because the youth affirm “yes they can” change their mindsets and their willingness to serve the marginalized — thus creating a kinder, peaceful, safe, loving, happy and better world for us all. The post Rotary Youth Leadership Awards: Why it’s significant appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Palawan s Hidden Beach named 3rd best beach in the world
The famous El Nido beach placed third on the overall list, behind top-ranked Lucky Bay in Australia and Anse Source d'Argent in Seychelles......»»
Sulu inaugurates modern library
JOLO, Sulu — The provincial government here recently inaugurated the Lupah Sug Provincial Library which aims to serve the academe and the people living in the different communities in Sulu. No less than Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. graced the event as the guest of honor along with Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan. According to Tan, Sulu province did not have any public library after the burning of Sulu in 1974, leaving the academe community handicapped in education and learning. He added that heads of private and government schools and universities accompanied by some of their senior faculty members attended the opening of the LSPL and lauded the provincial government for the initiative. Officials of the 19 local government units of Sulu including top leaders of the police and military in the province also attended the event. The LSPL was designed by a known architect from Metro Manila who will also drop the proposed hall of justice, Tan told Abalos during the inauguration rites as he revealed during the event that traders and other investors have also signified their intention to build modern hotels in this town to serve the visiting public. He also invited top national government officials to visit Sulu to experience for themselves the untouched beauty of the province, including the powdery white sand beaches and untouched nature they conserve and preserve for the visiting tourists. The post Sulu inaugurates modern library appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Simply the best: Rock queen Tina Turner has died at 83
Rock legend Tina Turner, the growling songstress who electrified audiences for decades, has died at the age of 83, a statement said Wednesday. "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner," read the statement on the official Instagram page of the eight-time Grammy winner. "With her music and her boundless passion for life, she enchanted millions of fans around the world and inspired the stars of tomorrow. "Today we say goodbye to a dear friend who leaves us all her greatest work: her music. All our heartfelt compassion goes out to her family. "Tina, we will miss you dearly." Turner, who had been living in Switzerland in her final years, first encountered fame with her husband Ike Turner. The pair recorded a number of hits together throughout the 1960s and 1970s, in a musical partnership in which she was clearly the more talented. After their troubled and violent marriage collapsed -- she fled in 1976 mid-tour -- Tina Turner forged a wildly successful solo career. The following decades gifted the world instantly recognizable hits like "What's Love Got to Do With It?", "Private Dancer" and the anthemic "The Best". Her "We Don't Need Another Hero" featured on the soundtrack to "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome," the 1985 post-apocalyptic thriller starring Mel Gibson. A decade later she oozed her way through "Goldeneye," joining the select ranks of artists who have sung in the James Bond franchise. The post Simply the best: Rock queen Tina Turner has died at 83 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
To `sow fear’ among scalawags, Go proposes Duterte anti-drug czar
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Tuesday raised the idea of making former president Rodrigo Duterte the country’s anti-drug czar to “sow fear” among cops involved in criminalities. Go made this suggestion during the discussion of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs on the possible cover-up by the Philippine National Police among its ranks involved in the P6.7-billion “shabu” haul in Manila last year. At the hearing, Go asked former PNP Chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. if Duterte would be helpful should he be tapped as the country’s anti-drug czar by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “If ever, well. It’s a prerogative of the President as the appointing authority. If ever, do you think it would be helpful if President Duterte will be appointed as drug czar?" Go said in vernacular. Azurin responded that he will be supportive of any government initiative to eliminate the distribution of illegal drugs in the country. “I don’t know if I can comment on that, what the setup would be, but anything on the campaign against illegal drugs, I will be supportive,” he said. Considering the number of cops allegedly involved in the supposed “recycling” of confiscated drugs, Go sees the efforts of the Duterte administration against drug activities and criminalities might be put to waste “if it continues to proliferate.” “Let’s not waste what former President Duterte started to fight against illegal drugs. Once the illegal drugs return, we know that criminality and corruption will also go back,” Go said. Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, the committee chairperson, expressed dismay and frustration over the alleged involvement of policemen in the “shabu” mess considering that the country’s war on drugs campaign has already reached the international scene. “I feel bad about it, you listen to me all policemen, my case has already reached the ICC because of our fight against illegal drugs. Despite this, all you think about is money. You are even in a syndicate. I can't digest this if this is happening to the police—joining a syndicate,” Dela Rosa said in vernacular. Dela Rosa said the Senate panel has acquired substantial basis to conclude that there was “really an attempt to cover up” the arrest of PMSgt. Rodolfo Mayo during an illegal drug operation last year. “For me, it is an attempted cover-up. It was not fully consummated by the fact that in the end, Mayo was also charged,” he said. Mayo was physically present during the second and third hearings on his case. But he did not divulge anything nor implicate anyone in the illegal matter. The senators cited Mayo in contempt for refusing to cooperate with Dela Rosa warned the attempted cover-up “has yet to be seen.” Senators also cited Mayo’s superior, National Capital Region Drug Enforcement officer-in-charge Lieutenant Colonel Arnulfo Ibañez, in contempt for testifying that he was not aware of his subordinate’s activities. The post To `sow fear’ among scalawags, Go proposes Duterte anti-drug czar appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»