Valenzuela City again threatens NLEX with suspension over RFID complaints
Valenzuela City is threatening the North Luzon Expressway with another suspension as it continues to receive complaints about the tollway’s RFID system......»»
Rent moratorium for rice retailers imposed
The Muntinlupa City Council passed an ordinance imposing moratorium on rental payment for public stall holders selling rice as a form of assistance to the traders due to the effectivity of the price caps. Mayor Ruffy Biazon signed Ordinance 2023-120 last Tuesday, 26 September, which became “effective immediately upon its approval.” The ordinance states that the President issued E.O. 39 “with an end view to put a price cap on rice in the effort to ease off the increasing price of the staple caused by illegal price manipulation such as hoarding by opportunistic traders and collusion among industry cartels in the light of the lean season, as well as global events taking place beyond the Philippines’ control, such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, India’s ban on rice exportation, and the unpredictability of oil prices in the world market, among other factors, have caused an alarming increase in the retail prices of rice.” In consonance with the presidential order, the city government was prompted to impose the moratorium on the collection of rental payment from stall holders engaged in the selling of rice as assistance to them due to a price cap on regular and well-milled rice. On 31 August, Marcos issued Executive Order 39 imposing a mandated price ceiling of P41 per kilo for regular milled rice and P45 per kilo for well-milled rice. The rice price cap took effect on 5 September. The Department of the Interior and Local Government issued Memorandum Circular 2023-131 for mayors to assist and ensure the effective regulation of the price of rice through “regular inspections of public and private markets, as well as rice warehouses; activation of hotlines, consumer complaints desk, and Timbangan ng Bayan; and deputation of barangay officials and non-government organizations to monitor abnormal price increases,” the ordinance added. The DILG also issued an unnumbered memorandum urging local government units “a) grant rent discounts; b) waive market fees; or c) pass a moratorium on rental payments, for public stall holders engaged in the business of selling rice for a period of two weeks to one month, subject to the discretion of the LGUs.” The post Rent moratorium for rice retailers imposed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hontiveros comes to aid of Alpha 400
The more or less 400 Filipinos duped into shelling out large sums of money in exchange for employment opportunities in Italy, found an ally in Senator Risa Hontiveros who filed a resolution Wednesday calling for an investigation into the alleged recruitment scam. Less than a week into a series ran by the DAILY TRIBUNE on the reported scam of Alpha Assistenza SRL, an Italy-based immigration consultancy firm, Hontiveros filed Senate Resolution 814 detailing the alleged fraudulent scheme of the immigration consultancy firm that preyed on Filipinos who dream of working in the European country. “It is alleged that Alpha Assistenza SRL provided over 400 Filipino “victims” with falsified Nulla Osta, a document issued by Italian immigration authorities authorizing a non-European Union national to apply for a work visa at an Italian embassy or consulate,” the resolution read. “The falsified Nulla Osta resulted in the rejection of the victims’ applications when the said documents were presented to the Italy Visa Application Center (VIA PIASI Center),” it added. According to Hontiveros, the Filipino applicants were met at the VIA PIASI Center located in Makati City by a Philippine agent designated in electronic messages by Krizelle Respicio, Alpha Assistenza SRL’s Chief Executive Officer and Immigration Consultant. “The State is mandated by the Constitution to afford full protection to laborers, both local and overseas, organized and unorganized, and to promote full employment and equality of employment opportunities for all,” she said. She added: “Because of the principle of territoriality, our statutes are generally only effective within Philippine territory; and there is thus an urgent need to protect Filipinos from possible recruitment perpetuated by companies based overseas.” ‘Aware’ Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday said it is aware of the alleged recruitment scam that victimized at least 400 Filipinos from the Philippines and Italy. In an interview, DFA spokesperson Teresita Daza said the number of victims of the alleged recruitment scam may be higher or lower than the previously reported 400 Filipinos. “The numbers are still being verified,” she said, denying alleged non-action against the supposed scam. For the hundreds of victims it does not help to hear the same tune and prompt action is the only way to address their hopelessness. It was the snail-paced efforts of the Philippine Consulate in Milan, Italy, that they sought Italian police assistance after the Consulate’s inaction to their complaints submitted in May 2023. Several victims, who reached out to the Daily Tribune’s digital program, “Usapang OFW,” accused Consul General Elmer Cato of sitting on their complaints against Alpha Assistenza SRL, an Italy-based immigration consultancy firm that allegedly preyed on Filipinos who are dreaming of working in Italy. In an interview over the Usapang OFW last week, several complainants, namely, Vanessa Antonio, Enrique Catilo, and Apple Cabasis, said the Alpha Assistenza SRL, headed by Filipino co-CEOs Krizelle Respicio and Frederick Dutaro, may have duped more than 400 Filipinos. They accused Consul General Elmer Cato of neglecting their grievances against Alpha Assistenza SRL. And Allan Hernandez The post Hontiveros comes to aid of Alpha 400 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Munti cops seize P3.5-M shabu
Personnel of Special Operations Unit 3 together with anti-narcotics authorities of Muntinlupa City Police in coordination with PDEA Regional Office-NCR arrested two drug suspects in a joint buy-bust operation under COPLAN LUPINE at Summitville, Barangay Putatan, Muntinlupa City, past 7 p.m. on 22 September. Arrested suspects were identified as James Regonay y Marcalda, 37 years old, and Dante Cleofe y Lopez, 48 years old, both residing in Barangay Putatan, Muntinlupa City. Seized in the operation was one heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing more or less 25 grams of suspected shabu (subject of sale), one transparent plastic bag containing two knot-tied transparent plastics containing more or less 500 grams suspected shabu (possession), one cellphone, two coin pouch containing Identification cards. Aside from the suspected drugs, authorities also seized various drug paraphernalia and the buy-bust money. The confiscated illegal drugs weighing more or less 525 grams of shabu worth P3,570,000 were turned over to PNP Forensic Group, Camp Crame, while arrested suspects will be temporarily turned over to Muntinlupa City Police for proper disposition. The suspects will be facing complaints for violation of Republic Act 9165 otherwise known as The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The post Munti cops seize P3.5-M shabu appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CoA queries PNP’s TXT 2920
The Department of the Interior and Local Government unit, which supervises the Philippine National Police, has pledged to take necessary measures amid reports that anomalies have hounded the PNP’s emergency reporting system. Under PNP 2920, individuals can text in complaints against erring PNP personnel. PNP offices are mandated to create or activate their version of TXT 2920, “Isumbong mo kay Tsip,” and “Anti-Kotong Text,” to serve as a watching or check and balance mechanism against its personnel and act with dispatch on reports reaching their office. During the sponsorship debate on the DILG’s P262.0 billion budget for 2024, 1-Rider Partylist Rep. Bonifacio Bosita raised the question of whether PNP’s 2920 is still active since he, himself, witnessed how the PNP covered up its personnel against complaints. Quezon City Rep. Luisa Cuaresma, the DILG’s budget sponsor, said the system is under the monitoring of the DILG, “particularly the PNP.” According to Bosita, a retired police commission officer before his stint in Congress, he witnessed how the PNP maneuvered the process to make it appear that the complaint was not legitimate. Relay system “When something happens at a police station, it will reach the PNP headquarters and be forwarded, communicated to the regional office of the PNP and taken down to the provincial police of the PNP and taken down to the police station concerned where the police being complained about is assigned,” Bosita said. “Because of this, Madam Sponsor and Mr. Speaker, the chief of police is trying to make it appear that the report received by the national headquarters is just a lie,” he added. The post CoA queries PNP’s TXT 2920 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
8.3K permits for telecom towers granted
More than 8,300 permits and clearances to build cell towers of telecommunications companies have been approved by 668 local government units, or LGUs, across the country, the Department of the Interior and Local Government said Monday. DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. said that as of 15 September, 8,311 permits for telecom towers had been approved by cities and municipalities, while 2,404 permits were still being processed in 229 cities and municipalities. Abalos said the DILG is monitoring the processing of permits and will issue show-cause orders to LGUs that delay the process. He said this is in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to improve and digitalize business processes, as he underscored DILG efforts to build smart cities and sustainable communities. Abalos said LGUs are streamlining their regulatory processes in line with Republic Act 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business Act. He cited his experience as a mayor of Mandaluyong City where complaints from the public were immediately acted on. He said Executive Order 32, signed by the President last July, streamlined permit processes for the construction of telecommunications and Internet infrastructure. The EO states that no other national or local permits or clearances shall be required for the construction and operation of telecommunications and internet infrastructure except those required by law. “There is usually a lot of red tape when building a telecoms tower. Because of this executive order, the requirements have been reduced and we expect interconnectivity to improve,” he said in Filipino. He added that efforts are being exerted to adopt digital or electronic facilities for business registration and renewal, and for the assessment and collection of local taxes, fees, and charges, as well as to shift to cashless payments pursuant to EO 170. “We have a joint initiative with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas called Paleng-QR. When you buy vegetables and food at the market, you no longer need to bring cash. Several LGUs across the country are now into cashless transactions through this system,” he explained. The post 8.3K permits for telecom towers granted appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Case of missing sabungeros getting clearer
The latest arrests on the six suspects in the case of missing sabungeros will give the Philippine National Police investigation a direction to its mastermind. This was how PNP Chief P/Gen. Benjamin Acorda viewed the latest development to an almost three-year case that somehow would lead to the identification of the mastermind and others responsible to the crime. “With this development, the investigation will have a direction and hopefully this will convince, or this would encourage other witnesses to come out and provide information,” Acorda said when he guested at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City. Acorda was referring to the arrest of security guards Julie Patidongan, Gleer Codilla, Mark Carlo Zabala, Virgilio Bayog, Johnry Consolacion and Roberto Matillano Jr. in two safehouses in Parañaque City. He said they are also hopeful that the arrest of six suspects will convince, or encourage other witnesses to provide information. The chief PNP also hinted that some of the six arrested suspects are willing to divulge further information on the matter. Acorda said they are hoping that the suspects would cooperate in the investigation for the PNP to finally identify and file charges against the mastermind and other suspects. “The most effective way to connect the mastermind is the suspects themselves. So I am hoping that they will talk,” Acorda said. The suspects were arrested on Friday in Parañaque City after the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group located their whereabouts through an informant and following a two-month surveillance operation. The six suspects were former security guards of the Manila Arena and we’re listed as respondents for six counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the abduction of six cockfighting players. Acorda said two other people were collared and are now facing obstruction of justice for providing shelter to the six suspects. The abduction at the Manila Arena was among the series of cases of kidnapping of 34 cockfighting players. Police earlier said the kidnapping was related to allegations of game-fixing for online sabong during the Covid-19 pandemic. On the other end, the families of missing sabungeros John Claude Inonog, Rondel Cristorum, Mark Joseph Velasco, Rowel Gomez, and brothers James Baccay and Marlon Baccay filed formal complaints against the six security officers at the Manila Arena over their disappearance in January 2022. Complaints for six counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention were filed on 18 March 2022, against the six suspects before the Department of Justice. The post Case of missing sabungeros getting clearer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Case of missing sabungeros now has directions- PNP Chief
The latest arrests of the six suspects in the case of missing sabungeros will give the Philippine National Police investigation a direction to its mastermind. This was how PNP Chief P/General Benjamin Acorda viewed the latest development to an almost three-year case that somehow would lead to the identification of the mastermind and others responsible for the crime. “With this development, the investigation will have a direction and hopefully this will convince, or this would encourage other witnesses to be dedicated to providing information,” Acorda said when he guested at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City. Acorda was referring to the arrest of security guards Julie Patidongan, Gleer Codilla, Mark Carlo Zabala, Virgilio Bayog, Johnry Consolacion, and Roberto Matillano Jr. in two safe houses in Parañaque City. He added said they are also hopeful that the arrest of six suspects will convince, or encourage other witnesses to provide information. The Chief PNP also hinted that some of the six arrested suspects are willing to divulge further information on the matter. Acorda said they are hoping that the suspects would cooperate in the investigation for the PNP to finally identify the file charges against the mastermind and other suspects. “The most effective way to connect the mastermind is the suspects themselves. So I am hoping that they will talk,” Acorda said. “There are some indications that they would talk but we just want to wait and anything that they will say is of course needs the assistance of a lawyer,” he added. The suspects were arrested on Friday in Parañaque City after the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group located their whereabouts through an informant and following a two-month surveillance operation. The six suspects were former security guards of the Manila Arena and we're listed as respondents for six counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the abduction of six cockfighting players. Acorda said two other people were collared and are now facing obstruction of justice for providing shelter to the six suspects. The abduction at the Manila Arena was among the series of cases of kidnapping of 34 cockfighting players. Police earlier said the kidnapping was related to allegations of game-fixing for online sabong during the Covid-19 pandemic. On the other end, the families of missing saunders John Claude Inonog, Rondel Cristorum, Mark Joseph Velasco, Rowel Gomez, and brothers James Baccay and Marlon Baccay filed formal complaints against the six security officers at the Manila Arena over their disappearance in January 2022. Complaints for six counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention were filed on March 18, 2022, against the six suspects before the Department of Justice. The CIDG also filed a separate case for kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the disappearance of the missing online sabong master agent Ricardo Lasco, who was reportedly abducted on August 30, 2021, in San Pablo, Laguna. Three former policemen linked to the kidnapping of Lasco have already surrendered. The DOJ in January 2023 filed kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges against six individuals allegedly involved in the disappearance of six sabungeros before the Manila Regional Trial Court. The families, however, withdrew from the cases last month, prompting the kin of other victims to express disappointment. ''We have been hearing reports that there were attempts to really bribe ‘yung mga witnesses,'' Acorda said. The post Case of missing sabungeros now has directions- PNP Chief appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CIDG nabs 6 suspects in missing cockfighters case
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group on Friday arrested six suspects in the case of missing 'sabungeros' (cockfighting enthusiasts) in Parañaque City, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said on Friday. According to CIDG chief Maj. Gen. Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr., the CIDG Region 4A arrested Julie Patidongan alias Dondon, Mark Carlo Zabala, Roberto Matillano Jr., Johnny Consolacion, Virgilio Bayog and Gleer Codilla at around 1:45 p.m. at Jackielou Village and Fortunata Village, both in Parañaque City, based on the arrest warrant for kidnapping and serious illegal detention issued by Regional Trial Court NCJR Branch 40, Manila, dated 24 January 2023, with no bail recommended. Acorda said aside from the six suspects, two companions of the suspects identified as Melchor Neri and Victorino Diocoso were also arrested for obstruction of justice. “I hope that with the arrest of these suspects, those who were reportedly backing out as witnesses may reconsider their position, and I do believe the case is still strong. We have enough evidence to continue with the case,” Acorda said in a press briefing held at Camp Crame. Acorda said the CIDG created Special Investigation Task Group “Sabungero” on 24 January 2022 to focus on the reported missing sabungeros. Based on the agency's investigation, at least 34 sabungeros have been reported missing as of this date. “I would like to commend the CIDG for their unrelenting efforts that led to the arrest of the six suspects. We hope that their arrest will give assurance to the families that the PNP have not reneged on their commitment to pursue this case until justice is served,” said Acorda. The Department of Justice has offered a P6 million reward for any information on the arrest of the six suspects. Acorda said that because police officers are not allowed to receive rewards and this goes to the action agents, the informants who are instrumental in their arrest will receive the reward, with the hope that this will convince others to support the PNP in manhunt operations against other wanted persons. A separate case for kidnapping and serious illegal detention was also filed by CIDG in relation to the case of the missing master agent of online "sabong" Ricardo Lasco, who was reportedly abducted on 30 August 2021 in San Pablo, Laguna. So far, the criminal complaints filed by the CIDG in the Manila Arena case and the case of Lasco have been found by the courts to have probable cause, resulting in the indictment of respondents through the issuance of arrest warrants. The post CIDG nabs 6 suspects in missing cockfighters case appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Lacuna keeping ‘guerilla’ vendors out
With the Christmas season just around the corner, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna has issued an order allowing Divisoria, central hub of all retail and wholesale business in the country, to retain its organized set–up to discourage those who may take advantage of the season to create chaos. The order comes amid reports that some illegal vendors are sprouting in the vending sites, affecting legitimate sidewalk vendors. In reaction, a joint operation was conducted by the Department of Public Services, DEPW (Department of Engineering and Public Works) , and MTPB (Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau) on the streets of El Cano, M. Delos Santos, Tabora and Sto. Cristo where all vendors were temporarily cleared to give way for the general cleaning that included a flushing job, collection of garbage, de clogging of canals, bundling of cables, and marking of lines to determine the area for vending. The middle portion is for pedestrians and also some parking areas. Lacuna made sure that Divisoria would no longer be the old one during his administration as she vowed to continue that no vendors could occupy main roads such as CM Recto which were converted into vending sites then. It was learned that several complaints were received by the office of Lacuna which led her to order an inspection. It was later verified to be true. Part of the area ordered inspected is Ylaya street where uniformed stalls were provided by the city during former Mayor Isko Moreno’s time that no violations were made and were kept clean by legitimate vendors as they hired their own street cleaners to maintain the area. It was noted that during these “BER” months some new vendors may come in as “guerilla” stalls, quietly appearing until it grows and becomes uncontrollable said the source. “This is the silent order of Lacuna in her desire to keep order in Divisoria as she started setting her eye in the area since the opening of classes where shoppers trooped to the said market to avail school supplies at much-lowered prices,” a source who requested anonymity said. The post Lacuna keeping ‘guerilla’ vendors out appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Comelec gun ban nets Pasig teener
A 19-year-old man was nabbed for violating the Comelec gun ban in Pasig City Sunday evening. The suspect was identified only as alias Jiro, a resident of Barangay Sagad, Pasig City. Initial investigation showed that while personnel of the Caniogan Police Sub-Station 2 were conducting patrol operation, they received a telephone call from the barangay security force and sought police assistance informing them about a male person walking along in a dim portion of Afable Street, Barangay Sagad, Pasig City while holding an unknown caliber of firearm. Recovered from the suspect was caliber .38 revolver. He is now detained at the Pasig City Police Station custodial facility while criminal complaints for violation of Comprehensive Law of Firearms and Ammunition in relation to Omnibus Election Code are being prepared against him. The post Comelec gun ban nets Pasig teener appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MTRCB suspends ‘It’s Showtime’ for 12 airing days — but no mention of Vice-Ion
The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board issued today, 4 September, its decision to suspend the noontime program It’s Showtime for 12 airing days. In a statement released to the media, the government agency said it has received “multiple complaints” from viewers concerning the show’s episode last 25 July, in which unspecified hosts “allegedly acted in an indecent manner” during the “Isip Bata” segment. Based on those complaints, the MTRCB made a case against It’s Showtime. The case was referred to its Hearing and Adjudication Committee, which then summoned the people behind the show as respondents as part of the procedural process. The respondents may file one Motion of Reconsideration within 15 days after receipt of the decision, in accordance with the Presidential Decree No. 1986 (MTRCB Charter). If the MR gets an unfavorable decision from the agency’s Board, the show may appeal to the Office of the President within 15 days from the receipt of the decision on the MR. “Isip Bata” is a game played with 20 adult contestants guessing the recorded answers of 50 kids to a particular question, until only one remains to advance to the jackpot round for a chance to win P50,000. At one point during the 25 July episode, host Ion Perez playfully swiped icing off a cake he was holding. His cohost and spouse Vice Ganda (they were married in the U.S. city of Las Vegas in 2022) played along, swiping some icing off Ion’s finger then licking it. That act triggered complaints against the show filed at the MTRCB. But the MTRCB neither specified that incident nor mentioned any names in its statement announcing It’s Showtime’s suspension. However, it described two other cases that it said elicited additional warnings for the noontime show. The first case involved hosts Jhong Hilario and Vince Ganda’s “inappropriate utterance” of the word “G Spot” in the 24 January 2023 episode, deemed in violation of Section 2 (B), Chapter IV of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Presidential Decree No. 1986. The second case referred to host Vhong Navarro’s “inappropriate utterance” of the word “Tinggil” in the 3 June 2023 episode, also deemed in violation of Section 2 (B), Chapter IV of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of P.D. No. 1986. Both cases are now under review by the agency’s Board. Prior to this suspension, the MTRCB pointed out in its statement that it had imposed back in 2010 a 20-day preventive suspension on ABS-CBN’s noontime show then called Showtime. Here is MTRCB’s full statement: The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) issued today, 04 September 2023, its decision to suspend the live noontime program “It’s Showtime!” for twelve (12) airing days. Viewers have lodged multiple complaints before the MTRCB concerning the show’s 25 July 2023 episode wherein the program’s hosts allegedly acted in an indecent manner during one of its segments, “Isip Bata.” The said case was referred to the MTRCB’s Hearing and Adjudication Committee which heard the case and required the respondents to submit their position papers, following a procedural process. In accordance with the Presidential Decree (P.D.) No. 1986 (MTRCB Charter), the respondents may file one Motion for Reconsideration (MR) within fifteen (15) days after receipt of the decision. Should the Board’s Decision be adverse to the respondent’s MR, they may appeal to the Office of the President within fifteen (15) days from the receipt of the decision on the MR. This is not the first time that a preventive suspension order was imposed on It’s Showtime. In 2010, the MTRCB imposed a 20-day preventive suspension on ABS-CBN’s daily variety program then called “Showtime.” In 2023 alone, the MTRCB has received multiple complaints which the Board has given due course. Most recently, the Board issued two (2) additional warnings to the noontime show concerning the following cases: Case no. 1: Inappropriate utterance of the word “G Spot” by hosts Jhong Hilario and Vice Ganda, during the 24 January 2023 episode of “It’s Showtime!” in violation of Section 2 (B), Chapter IV of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Presidential Decree (P.D.) No. 1986. Decision: The Board found the Respondents (ABS-CBN Corporation Broadcasting Network [ABS-CBN], ZOE Broadcasting Network, Inc. [ZBNI] and TV 5 Network, Inc.) remiss in the performance of their respective functions and duties required under the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of P.D. No. 1986, specifically Section 2 (B) Chapter IV thereof, and are admonished to refrain from making any utterances of similar nature for the same will be dealt more severely. Case no. 2: Inappropriate utterance of the word “Tinggil” by host Vhong Navarro, during the 03 June 2023 episode of “It’s Showtime!” in violation of Section 2 (B), Chapter IV of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of P.D. No. 1986. Decision: Derelict in the performance of their respective functions and duties under the IRR of P.D. No. 1986, Respondents (ABS-CBN and ZBNI) were sternly warned by the Board that a similar utterance will be dealt with more severely. At present, the noontime show has duly submitted their MRs for the above-mentioned cases which are currently pending with the MTRCB’s Adjudication Committee. Prior Warnings It may also be recalled that the noontime show received prior warnings from the Board in relation to the utterance of the word “Pek Pek Shorts” in the 09 January 2023 episode of the show and the indecent attire and performance of Kim Duenas in the “Girl on Fire” segment aired on 14 February 2023, in both cases, the Respondents were admonished that similar violations shall be dealt with more severely. Dismissed Complaints over lack of Merit Apart from these, the MTRCB has received multiple complaints regarding the noontime show, which the Board dismissed in the spirit of fairness and equity, such as (1) Complaints regarding the “Rampanalo” segment money game where hosts were paired together to catch play money using their lips; (2) Complaints regarding the allegedly suggestive “macho” dancing in one of the show’s segments; (3) Complaints regarding the wardrobe malfunctions or “nip slips” of one of the performers, to which MTRCB issued a memorandum urging stakeholders to exercise prudence in securing their talents’ clothing during performances; and (4) Complaints of alleged inappropriate wearing of the Barong Tagalog of one of the Hosts, to name a few. The MTRCB only adjudicates cases which, to the Board’s judgment, have basis in law and its mandate, P.D. No. 1986. The post MTRCB suspends ‘It’s Showtime’ for 12 airing days — but no mention of Vice-Ion appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Fortun files case at QC PLEB vs QCPD, re gun-toting incident
Atty. Raymond Fortun, acting as a concerned citizen, has filed a case with the Quezon City People’s Law Enforcement Board (PLEB) over the weekend, against personnel of QCPD Traffic Sector 4 of Kamuning in relation to the viral gun-toting incident that happened last August 8. Fortun filed the charges against P/Staff Sergeant Darwin Peralta, P/SSg. Joel Aviso, and P/Executive Master Sergeant Armando Carr, all from the QCPD Traffic Sector 4 of Kamuning. The lawyer charged them with Oppression, Irregularities in the Performance of Duties and Incompetence, under Rule 21 of NAPOLCOM Memorandum Circular 2016 – 002. Fortun said that it appears the cyclist and ex-policeman Wilfredo Gonzales were first brought to the QCPD Kamuning Police Station 11, since the incident was first considered as a mere traffic incident by the first responders of QCPD Galas Police Station. Eventually, no charges were filed in Kamuning, and the parties were instead referred to the Galas Police Station late in the evening. “Despite the clear and imbalanced status of the parties, the same police officers failed to protect the rights of the cyclist when they failed to provide a legal counsel for him so that the latter would be duly appraised of his rights. Further, they failed to secure the CCTV footages in the area in order to ferret out the real facts in the conflicting statements made by the parties. Finally, and for reasons known only to them, and despite there being sufficient basis to do so, the same police officers failed to file the appropriate charges,” Fortun explained. On the other end, Mayor Joy Belmonte lauded this act of Atty. Fortun. “What we need now are little acts of heroism from ordinary Filipinos to stand up for what is right to exact accountability from those in power. This move of Atty. Fortun in filing a case with our PLEB is a vote of confidence that here in Quezon City, we will get things done. The proper process in the proper forum, which is the PLEB, will now take its course,” Belmonte said. “This incident also highlights the need to institutionalize the presence of PLEB in other cities and municipalities to hear and decide the complaints filed against erring policemen. I am confident that the case filed in the PLEB will be handled without fear or favor,” she added. Meanwhile, PLEB Chairman and Executive Officer Atty. Rafael Vicente Calinisan said, “The institutions, particularly the PLEB, are in place so that the community will feel safe and secure in their homes. We commit to serve as an effective watchdog against abusive cops, and at the same time serve as partners to our men in uniform towards nation-building.” “As far as the case filed by Atty. Fortun is concerned, we promise to act on this case with absolute dispatch,” Calinisan added. The PLEB is the check and balance mechanism created by Republic Act 6975 or An Act Establishing the PNP Under A Reorganized Department of the Interior and Local Government and For Other Purposes as amended by R.A. 8551 (The PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998) where ordinary citizens are empowered against erring policemen. PLEB can summarily dismiss, demote, suspend and reprimand abusive policemen. The post Fortun files case at QC PLEB vs QCPD, re gun-toting incident appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cooking is in his Spanish blood
Sometime in 2017, a veterinarian from the province of Valencia in Spain went on vacation with three of his best friends to the island of Siargao in the Philippines. They enjoyed surfing a lot and fell in love with the place so hard that by the end of their 15-day holiday, they promised to return and even considered relocating. [caption id="attachment_178310" align="aligncenter" width="1707"] CHEF Luis Martinez | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF DOñA ELENA[/caption] A year later, the four amigos made their “final decision.” They made the big move to Siargao and “luckily” found work. The veterinarian, though, ended up becoming a chef and opened a restaurant he called Alma. Then the pandemic struck and, soon, a super typhoon hit the island. The newbie chef had to close down his first culinary venture. Fast-forward to 2023: Chef Luis Martinez is coolly directing his staff at Terraza Martinez restaurant in Bonifacio Global City this late morning of 30 August for an event in collaboration with Doña Elena brand of olive oil. He then introduces the menu he’s specially prepared for the media representatives covering the event. Martinez maintains his coolness as he sits down for an interview with DAILY TRIBUNE and another publication. He says his three friends of 35 years who came with him to Siargao six years ago are still on the island. “We’ve known each other for 35 years. I have my little family from Spain here.” Back in Spain, he has his parents, four siblings and other relatives that make up his “core family” of 25 members who can all cook. He fondly remembers growing up bonding with his family around the kitchen “cooking, eating, drinking wine” particularly every Sunday and on Christmas. He mentions a couple of his comfort food, such as paella, which traces some of its origins in Valencia, and cocido, a beef soup that he likens to the Pinoy bulalo. That’s how Martinez learned how to cook around age nine. “I never studied culinary arts. I never worked in a kitchen before. My first kitchen was Siargao three years ago. Now, this one,” he says of Terraza Martinez, which he set up in 2022 with the Nikkei Group that runs several restaurants. He also admits to making a lot of mistakes along the way of his trial-and-error ways while trying a lot of flavors. [gallery size="full" columns="2" ids="178311,178312"] In terms of culinary, he says he brings “almost everything” of the Spain he grew up into Terraza Martinez. “My idea is I want to make our guests to feel like having lunch or dinner in Spain,” he explains, “with the same kind of ambience, with the same kind of essence where you have a little of tapas, paella, where you can enjoy not only the food but the company of your friends and the comfort of the food. So I’m trying to bring some Spanish culture here as we eat there.” Martinez turns candid when asked about his observations of Filipino cuisine: “The flavors are a little bit sweet than we’re used to. Also, I need to put a little bit less of what I’ll put in Spain. I use a little bit of sugar to make it a little sweet. “I need to adjust, yes. When I opened my first place, I got a lot of complaints because they were saying my food was little bit salty. They were expecting a little bit of sweetness. So I need to adjust, yes. Even here in Terraza Martinez. It has a little bit of Filipino taste.” The chef, for instance, had to take out gazpacho, a cold soup, from the menu because Filipinos tend to prefer hot soups. Overall, though, the reception to Terraza Martinez has been overwhelmingly positive by diners who are made up of “90 percent Filipinos and 10 percent foreigners.” This makes Martinez truly “surprised and happy,” saying, “I wasn’t expecting this a lot of people. All our customers really like the place. They like the food. For me, because I’m the chef, wow!” Next on the chef’s plate is a new restaurant in Siargao he hopes to open soon. That means he’ll be dividing his time, about 15 days each, in Siargao and in Manila. Spain can wait in the meantime. “I try to visit my family and friends every two months, maximum three… I spend summer here because right now I’m opening a restaurant, so I cannot go.” Meantime, Martinez continues to learn more about the Philippines with some help from his Filipina girlfriend, who’s teaching him a bit of the national language. He also picks up words here and there from conversations. He also looks forward to surfing in Siargao, but, when he’s in Manila, just swims and has recently taken up boxing to burn the calories he consumes eating. The post Cooking is in his Spanish blood appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
P748K shabu seized, 3 druggies nabbed
A total of 110 grams of suspected illegal drugs were confiscated by authorities in a buy-bust operation conducted at dawn yesterday in Brgy. San Antonio, Parañaque City. This was the report received by Brig. Gen. Roderick Mariano, director of the Southern Police District, yesterday. Parañaque police identified the arrested suspects as Arnulfo Apinado, 39 years old; Johnny Zuasola, 52 years old; and Noel Cabeliza, 26 years old. Operatives of Parañaque City Police Station Drug Enforcement Unit plotted the buy-bust operation that resulted in the arrest of the suspects and confiscation of 11 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu with a street value of P748,000; P1,000 buy-bust money; and P1,000 recovered money. Complaints for violation of Section 5 and Section 11, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165 will be filed against the suspect through inquest proceedings before the Office of the City Prosecutor, Parañaque City. Mariano said this is the biggest drug haul upon his assumption as district director. He also said that the SPD’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs will never stop; instead, it will focus more on the drug supply side to stop illegal substances being peddled on the streets. The post P748K shabu seized, 3 druggies nabbed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mother, daughter collared in drug sting
A mother and daughter tandem was arrested in a drug sting by the police along Dingguinbayan Street in Barangay Ibayo Tipas, Taguig City for their alleged involvement in drug-related activities. The suspects were identified as Jeanie Dugay y Lontoc, 47 years old and Eunice Dugay y Lontoc, 29 years old. Authorities recovered from the suspects six heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu with combined weight of 25.5 grams and estimated street value of P173,400. The recovered pieces of evidence, along with the suspects, were subsequently turned over to the Station Drug Enforcement Unit for the preparation of necessary documents for the filing of complaints against the arrested individuals. Also, in an “Oplan Galugad” launched by Taguig City police a P170,000 worth of illegal drugs was seized from a man. A report had it that personnel from Ususan Police Substation 4 of Taguig City Police while conducting an anti-criminality operation thru “Oplan Galugad” apprehended an individual suspected of violating Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The incident transpired along Liwayway Street in Barangay Sta. Ana, Taguig City, at approximately 2:40 a.m. on 24 August 2023. The suspect identified as Marvin Lorica y Vestidas, 27 years old, was taken into custody by the arresting officers. During the operation, authorities discovered and seized knot-tied transparent plastic containing a white crystalline substance suspected to be shabu weighing approximately 25 grams, with an estimated value of P170,000. The complaint was referred to Station Investigation and Detective Management Branch, Taguig City Police Station for proper documentation and disposition. The post Mother, daughter collared in drug sting appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Defiant drag queen challenges persona non grata status
Drag queen Pura Luka Vega remains undeterred by the numerous persona non grata resolutions passed by local governments condemning her portrayal of Jesus Christ as she performed a rock version of “Ama Namin" as "blasphemous." In a recent video shared on X by netizen Jordy Rae Jepsen, the drag queen was shown addressing the crowd and acknowledging the universal nature of human imperfection. “Ito lang masasabi ko, simplehan lang natin ha. Lahat tayo makasalanan. Tama? Hindi tayo perpekto. Tama? Ganunpaman, do unto others what you want others to do unto you. Okay? Do not do to others what you do not want others to do unto you. Golden rule lang po iyon,” she said. She then addressed local governments declaring her unwelcome. “So, para sa mga ibang lugar na gusto pa mag persona non grata diyan. dagdagan niyo pa! Pakialam ko. [There's] separation ng church at ng state,” she added. Having been labeled persona non grata in 12 places — including Occidental Mindoro, Laguna, Dinagat Islands, Cagayan de Oro, Nueva Ecija, Bukidnon, Cebu City, Manila City, General Santos City, Floridablanca in Pampanga, Toboso in Negros Occidental, and Mandaue City — Pura Luka is also facing two criminal complaints filed by religious groups Philippines for Jesus Movement and Hijos del Nazareno-Central. The drag queen had previously defended her performance as "art" and criticized those who declared her persona non grata, asserting that they misunderstood the artistic intention behind her portrayal. The post Defiant drag queen challenges persona non grata status appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Occupational safety and health office now into training, not workplace inspections
The Occupational Safety and Health Center is now more focused on training safety officers than inspecting establishments and work places to check their compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Standards. At the weekly Laging Handa press briefing, OSHC Executive Director Maria Teresita Cucueco, said the Department of Labor and Employment is now the one making the rounds to check work places and business establishments. "Tinutuloy po ng DOLE po ito pero ang tanggapan po namin ay hindi na po sa inspeksiyon kung hindi sa mga pagbibigay ng training. Ang mga regional offices po ng DOLE, sila po ang nagmu-monitor at nag-i-inspect ng mga workplaces at iyong tinitingnan po nila iyong compliance with general labor standards and occupational safety and health standards, but tuloy naman po iyon at iyan po ay isang mandato na talagang tinutugunan po ng DOLE at ang regional offices" (It's now DOLE that does the inspections, while our office is into traning. DOLE's regional offices monitors and inspects workplaces for their compliance with labor standards and occupational safety and health standards. That's the mandate being done by DOLE and its regional offices), Cucueco explained. She said number-one rule is for business establishments to have safety and health officers who would implement and develop programs for the safety of all in the workplace. However, the OSHC officials said many micro and small establishments still lack safety and health officers. "They are now one of our key generators for our economy. The DOLE is now working with them to comply with the required safety officers and having health programs in their workplaces. DOLE has already monitored this problem and is now addressing it," Cucueco said. Those who would be found violating the requirement for safety officers will be assisted by DOLE in terms of "technical assistance visits – it’s a form of inspection pero gina-gather po itong mga micro establishments that are in an area at tinutulungan ng mga DOLE personnel to help them comply sa safety and health standards." The OSHC, on the other hand, will provide the necessary training to selected employees who could be assigned as safety and health officers. "Nakapag-commit ho kami na we will be doing more than…reaching 50,000 safety officers from micro establishments for the year at ito po ay ibibigay po ng DOLE nang libre, so iyong mga iba naman ay nakatapos na. Itong mga sumusunod na buwan ay paiigtingin pa po ng DOLE ang pagti-train, nandoon na rin po iyong pangangailangan ng first aiders. So, doon po kasi kailangan po sa mga micro establishments iyong first aiders at safety officers level one" (We've committed to reaching 50,000 safety officers from micro establishments for the year and this will be given by DOLE for free. In the next months, DOLE will intensify such trainings, especially for first aiders, since what micro establishments need are first aiders and safety officers level one), she explained. Cucueco added that DOLE, aside from giving the training for free, has also tied up with the Philippine Red Cross for micro establishments to have first aid training. In cases of accidents and mishaps, Cucueco said the DOLE's regional offices are the ones who will do the investigations, citing the case of the wall that collapsed in a Quezon City construction site where the DOLE's National Capital Region was sent to investigate the incident. Cucueco said complaints of employees regarding safety and health officers may also relayed to or filed with the nearest DOLE district office. The post Occupational safety and health office now into training, not workplace inspections appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Men accused of mauling British chef Jason Atherton to face charges in court
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Five of the six individuals accused of mauling British celebrity chef Jason Atherton last year will be facing charges of child abuse, sexual harassment, and physical injuries in court. The Cebu City Prosector’s Office has recommended elevating the complaints Atherton lodged against the men he engaged in a fistfight inside a The post Men accused of mauling British chef Jason Atherton to face charges in court appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Malabon council probing barangay exec
A Malabon city councilor has filed an administrative complaint against the chairperson of Barangay Potrero for alleged violations of Republic Act 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. The Malabon City Council said it would investigate the complaint filed by Councilor Diosdado Cunanan against barangay chair Sheryl Nolasco after it was endorsed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government. DILG-National Capital Region director Maria Lourdes Agustin made the endorsement in a one-page signed letter referring to the verified complaint filed by Cunanan against Nolasco before Vice Mayor Bernard dela Cruz, as city council presiding officer. The city council has jurisdiction over complaints against local elective officials. In a letter to DILG Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr., Cunanan requested the department’s assistance in investigating Nolasco. Among the complaints was the alleged unauthorized release of P180,590 of barangay funds allegedly used by Nolasco to pay for the repair of the latter’s personal vehicle, and Nolasco’s supposedly unauthorized travel. Cunanan said the city council will start looking into his complaint against the barangay official on Friday, 11 August. The post Malabon council probing barangay exec appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
OBO lifts suspension order for works on commercial building in Cebu City
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu City Office of the Building Official (OBO) has already lifted the suspension order it issued against the contractor of the 37-story residential-commercial building, which faced complaints from residents of Barangay Hipodromo for violation of safety standards. The suspension was lifted approximately a week after OBO chief Architect Catalan visited […] The post OBO lifts suspension order for works on commercial building in Cebu City appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»