Why the Sinovac vaccine isn t for medical workers, senior citizens despite FDA approval
FDA not recommending Sinovac for health workers has raised concern over the jabs. So what's behind the reason for this?.....»»
Discontent
Approval ratings given our political leaders are not the most precise indicators of the temper of our citizens......»»
Online passport renewal for migrant workers, seniors eyed
Migrant workers and senior citizens will soon be able to renew their passports via online processing with the Senate’s approval of the New Philippine Passport Act. The upper chamber on Monday has approved on the third and final reading the Senate Bill 2001, an act providing for a new passport law, repealing for the purpose of Republic Act 8239, which allows senior citizens and migrant workers to renew their passports virtually, without having to go to the Department of Foreign Affairs office. Senator Win Gatchalian said the bill, which was among Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s priority measures, would allow Filipinos who lost their passports to request emergency passports that are valid for a year. “Tungkulin ng gobyerno na gawing maayos ang mga dokumento na kinakailangan ng ating mga kababayan para sa kanilang maayos na paglalakbay It is the duty of the government to properly prepare the required documents for their smooth travel of our countrymen),” he added. SB 2001 mandates the DFA to work in collaboration with other relevant government agencies, in establishing and maintaining an online application portal and an Electronic One-Stop Shop easily accessible on its official website, to ensure convenience in the application process and the collection and submission of necessary requirements. The measure also mandates the issuance of passports using the latest tamper-proof and data management technologies. Senator Imee Marcos, who sponsored and co-authored the bill, previously said the measure will also set up a watchlist for people who have been denied passports or have had their passports canceled. “It would be wise to improve, as much as we can, the language involved during the bicameral conference and even thereafter,” she said. SB 2001 also targets the development of a new generation of passports aligned with international standards and streamlining the application process. It includes provisions for the non-appearance renewal of passports for senior citizens and Filipino migrant workers abroad at consular offices. The post Online passport renewal for migrant workers, seniors eyed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
FIBA World Cup experience: Springboard to greater heights
Congratulations are in order for the whole Gilas Pilipinas Team for their monumental win versus China (96-75), ending our FIBA World Cup 2023 campaign on a hopeful note. I have always believed in the capabilities of our athletes who have shown their mettle in international sports competitions. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am rallying all Filipinos to support our long-term roadmap to elevate the standing of our athletes in the global arena in all sporting events. Filipinos have excelled in the global stage not just in basketball, billiards, or boxing which are relatively the more popular sports in the country. Take for example Carlos Yulo in gymnastics, EJ Obiena in pole vaulting, Hidilyn Diaz in weightlifting, the late Lydia de Vega in track and field, and, of course, the Filipinas Football team who made us proud during the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup. Our very own Alex Eala is also a rising star in the world of tennis. We have many talented athletes, and we should support them in their quest to give honor to the country. However, success in any sporting event does not come easily. Any athlete will tell you that sports entails discipline, many hours of hard work, and even years of sacrifices. Hence, our efforts to strengthen our chances on the global stage must start at the grassroots level. This is the rationale behind RA 11470 or the National Academy of Sports or NAS law, which I authored and co-sponsored, and signed into law by former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2020. The NAS System will provide scholarships to qualified student-athletes from all regions and will allow them to balance academics and sports training by utilizing the state-of-the-art facilities at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. I am also advocating the approval of Senate Bill No. 423 or the Philippine National Games or PNG Act, to institutionalize the conduct of the PNG every two years as this will allow us to discover those with athletic potential at the grassroots level. We have talented athletes, but the government must invest in providing them with opportunities to compete if we want to produce champions on both the national and international stages. I am pushing for SBN 2116, which will amend Section 8 of RA 10699 or the “National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act.” This will increase the incentives for para-athletes who will win medals in international competitions and make our approach more inclusive to all athletes regardless of their physical limitations. Our efforts to achieve victory in sports must reflect the diversity of our country. The government, together with the private sector and other stakeholders, must consistently provide all the support that our teams need to compete at the global level. Our focus must be on creating opportunities for all aspiring athletes, regardless of geographic or economic background, to excel in their chosen fields. Hence, we should bring our sports development programs closer to those who have the potentials and aspirations to represent our country and bring pride to every Filipino. More importantly, sports is not only a physical game but a means to uplift lives, keep our youth away from vices like illegal drugs, and strengthen camaraderie in our communities. Let us elevate sports as a viable tool in harnessing our citizens into disciplined, productive and patriotic individuals reflective of our Filipino pride. In the same way that we unite to support our athletes, let us also unite to support fellow Filipinos in need. That is why I have continued to engage with various sectors of society to listen to their concerns and help provide solutions to their daily struggles. Filipinos inherently have a “never say die” attitude, especially in sports which is reflective of our resilience as a society. But aside from this commendable trait, our resilience also stems from our inherent compassion for each other. Our “Tapang at Malasakit” must continue so that together, we can uplift the lives of Filipinos. As a Senator and public servant, I remain steadfast in supporting our athletes to reach greater heights while also exerting efforts to help bring government programs and services closer to those in need to provide them with opportunities for a better life. The post FIBA World Cup experience: Springboard to greater heights appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
IACT suspends revised departure rules for Filipino travelers
The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) convened a special council meeting yesterday to address concerns surrounding the "2023 Revised IACAT Guidelines on Departure Formalities for International-Bound Filipino Passengers" (2023 Revised Guidelines). The primary agenda of the special meeting was to deliberate on and approve a resolution suspending the implementation of the 2023 Revised Guidelines. After careful deliberation, the IACAT Council approved the resolution, formally suspending the implementation of the 2023 Revised Guidelines. The meeting further resolved that the IACAT shall revisit the 2023 Guidelines and shall further strengthen its information and education campaign to convey to the public the essential purpose and grave concerns that the 2023 Guidelines seek to address. The decision to suspend the implementation of the 2023 Revised Guidelines is the council's response to concerns raised by the public and underscores its dedication not only to protect Filipino citizens against trafficking but also to clearly inform them of the protective mechanisms in place and how they work. During the open forum that preceded the resolution's approval, all member agencies present expressed their shared and continued commitment to the fight against human trafficking and underscored that the Guidelines were intended to be a tool to enhance screening procedures against untruthful declarations; thus, protecting Filipino nationals from becoming victims of this heinous crime. Likewise, they recognized the importance of striking a balance between safeguarding the individual’s right to travel and ensuring national security. The Council remains committed to working collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders, including the legislature, other government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international partners, to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach to combatting human trafficking in all its forms. The post IACT suspends revised departure rules for Filipino travelers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PNP recalls police escorts as part of barangay, SK election preps
The Police Security and Protection Group of the Philippine National Police on Tuesday announced it has launched a comprehensive recall of its protective security personnel stationed throughout the country as part of the preparation for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections scheduled for 30 October 2023, Brig. Gen. Leo Francisco, acting Director for Operations, led the presentation of recalled personnel at the PNP Transformation Oval, Camp BGen Rafael T Crame, Quezon City. Regional offices across the nation will also conduct their recall activities, which will be witnessed through online platforms. “This recall serves as a reminder of our duty to the people and the nation. As you return to your units, let your actions reflect the ideals of a just and democratic society”, PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda said in a statement on Tuesday. “Additionally, this recall serves as a proactive measure to prevent any undue influence, conflicts of interest, or perceptions of impropriety during the electoral process. Our priority is to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure that every citizen's voice is heard,” he added. Of the total 920 protective security personnel stationed nationwide, 679 PSPG personnel are subject to recall. Among these, 495 are responsible for safeguarding 285 government officials, while 425 are entrusted with the security of 309 private individuals. Those recalled will undergo refresher and specialization courses while awaiting redeployment after the election period. The initiative is in accordance with Comelec Resolution 10918, which outlines the Rules and Regulations on the Ban on the Bearing, Carrying or Transporting of Firearms or Other Deadly Weapons, as well as the Employment, Availment or Engagement of the Services of Security Personnel or Bodyguards during the Election Period. The election period starting on 28 August marks the period of prohibition that extends until 29 November 2023. During this time, Comelec regulations dictate the suspension of activities involving the carrying of firearms or other deadly weapons and the employment of security personnel or bodyguards by incumbent public officials, whether elected or appointed, as well as private individuals. To facilitate the application for the issuance of a Certificate of Authority for Security Detail, eligible individuals, including incumbent public officials and private citizens, are encouraged to submit their requests online through the Comelec website. The electronic filing system has been operational since 5 June 2023, and will remain open until 15 November 2023. As of 24 August 2023, a total of 295 applications have been received for CA-SD, with 49 having already received approval. The Comelec is expecting around 2 million aspiring candidates for the BSKE. In total, 672,432 positions need to be filled. These account for 42,027 positions for Punong Barangay and another 42,027 positions for SK Chairpersons. Around 294,189 seats should also be filled for each Sangguniang Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan group. The post PNP recalls police escorts as part of barangay, SK election preps appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DSWD eyes add’l P500 for elderlies
The Department of Social Welfare and Development on Friday expressed hope the additional funding for the pensions of indigent senior citizens would be approved. It can be recalled that Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, in a statement on 10 August, announced that P49.81 billion had been allocated in the 2024 proposed national budget “to fund the increase in the Social Pension of Indigent Senior Citizens.” DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Romel Lopez said the proposed allocation, which doubles the allocation of P25.30 billion in the 2023 General Appropriations Act, is the realization of Republic Act 11916 or An Act Increasing the Social Pension of Indigent Senior Citizens. “The DSWD continues to push for the increase to help indigent seniors cushion the impact of higher prices of fuel, goods and to keep up with global inflation,” Lopez said. RA 11916, which lapsed into law in July 2022, provides for a 100-percent increase in the monthly pensions of indigent senior citizens, from P500 to P1,000. “The department looks forward to the approval of the proposed funding so we can ensure that programs and services for senior citizens will significantly impact the lives of the beneficiaries,” he said. The DSWD has vowed to work closely with the National Commission of Senior Citizens or NCSC to ensure continued government support for the welfare of the elderly sector. The post DSWD eyes add’l P500 for elderlies appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Belmonte named Presidential Lingkod-Bayan awardee
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has been named regional winner of the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award from the Civil Service Commission National Capital Region for its 2023 Search for Outstanding Government Workers. The certificate, issued 19 May and presented yesterday, was signed by CSC NCR Committee Chairperson Judith Dongallo-Chicano and Committee Members Maverick Sevilla, Joselito Florendo, Hans Alcantara, and Vlademir Villacorta, in recognition of Belmonte’s outstanding performance as a public servant. “We thank the CSC for this big honor. This is not for me but for all our city government workers serving our QCitizens,” Belmonte said. “If not for them, we would have not received this recognition for our service, programs and projects,” she added. Established by virtue of Executive Order No. 508, s-1992, the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award is given for outstanding work performance and contributors with national impact. According to the CSC process, the names of the regional winners will then be forwarded to the Honor Awards Program National Secretariat for review before a national qualifier will be determined. The Committee on Awards for the Presidential Lingkod Bayan and CSC Pagasa, and the Committee on the Outstanding Public Officials and Employees (Dangal ng Bayan) Award will deliberate at the national level. The said committees are composed of government officials appointed by the President of the Philippines, members of the Commission, heads of constitutional bodies, and prominent Filipino citizens who are not in government service. The semifinalists will be determined after the first round of deliberations and they will undergo background investigation to verify their accomplishments, as well as clearances from appropriate government agencies. These will be considered during the second round of deliberations before the list of finalists is submitted to the Office of the President for vetting and approval. Several QC government officials, led by City Administrator Michael Alimurung, were also nominated for the Pagasa Award, along with Chief of Staff Rowena Macatao, Business Permits, and Licensing Department Head Margarita Santos, City Engineer Atty. Dale Perral, and City Treasurer Edgar Villanueva. The late traffic enforcer Jeffrey Antolin was also nominated for the Dangal ng Bayan Award for giving his life to save a commuter from harm. The post Belmonte named Presidential Lingkod-Bayan awardee appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mga UNGA(s)
The United Nations General Assembly, or UNGA, is the “chief deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations,” according to the UN’s official website. And says the website of the Department of Foreign Affairs, our country’s representative to the UNGA is a diplomat of ambassadorial rank appointed by the President. This is as it should be, for it is a doctrine beyond cavil that the President is the main architect of our country’s foreign policy, hence, the country’s delegate to the UNGA must act under the direction of our Chief Executive. Anyone who has gone through high school civics class and/or can use an internet browser would know that. In other words, while the Legislature has not been locked out of certain foreign policy considerations (such as the approval of treaties and the confirmation of ambassadors), its main function is to make laws. If memory serves, it’s called the separation of powers. But then, some members of our Senate — which Ferdinand Marcos Sr. wisely did away with in 1972 — specifically Senate President Zubiri and Senator Hontiveros, thought it would be politically expedient to pander to the growing throng of Filipinos constantly angered by the Chinese harassment of our fishermen. Thus, in aid of election (he to the vice presidency, she to the presidency, if the grapevine is to be believed), the two strange bedfellows shepherded through the chamber Senate Resolution 718, which practically dictated to the Department of Foreign Affairs, through a so-called five-pronged approach, how it should deal with the West Philippine Sea problem. Now, it, of course, shouldn’t be a problem for individual legislators to express their opinions as to how the WPS question should be handled by our government. After all, the members of Congress, even as citizens — and more so as elected representatives — have as much right as anyone to do so. But for the Senate, as an institution, to practically boss around the DFA on what to do, especially with regard to our actions in the UNGA, leaves a bad taste in the mouth, to be charitable about it. Chief Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile was more blunt. He called it “stupid.” A Senate Resolution, although not law, expresses the sense of that body on a particular issue. It can be made to cut for good when the Senate throws its institutional weight behind a subject of national interest. But the mandate at large of the senators does not justify trenching upon the prerogatives of the President when it comes to conducting international policy. When that happens, the Senate’s sense, in that sense, becomes nonsense. There is a reason why the President is the one mandated by the fundamental law to lay down our foreign policy. By virtue of his being commander-in-chief of all the armed forces of the Philippines, as well as the head of government, he is privy to top secret information that all others — senators included — have no access to. And as head of state, he receives information from other heads of state — formally and through backchanneling, that aid him in determining the best strategy to adopt in our relations with other nations. Resolution No. 718 thus not only preempts the Chief Executive, it tries to embarrass him by publicly suggesting steps that he is “strongly urged” to take. Worse, it presumptuously gives the subtext that the Senate knows better than the President in matters of foreign policy. Not good. It was right for the DFA to diplomatically call out the Senate on its resolution by saying that the option of bringing the WPS brouhaha to a vote in the UNGA should be seriously studied. Knowing China’s diplomatic clout in view of its trade partnership with so many nations, if the WPS topic dies on the floor of the UNGA, then the Senate will look like a bunch of “mga ungas” (stupid or ignorant people). The post Mga UNGA(s) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
House receives P5.7-T proposed nat’l budget
The Department of Budget and Management or DBM on Wednesday submitted to House Speaker Martin Romualdez the P5.768-trillion proposed national budget for next year, which the lawmaker said would provide Congress enough time to evaluate the soundness of the fund allocations. DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman delivered the proposal, also called the National Expenditure Program, on the date she promised after it was handed over to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last month. “Your submission of the proposed national budget in less than 10 days from the start of the regular session of Congress provides the House ample time to study, discuss, and deliberate on the point of the proposal, and formulate a national budget that is responsive to the development needs of our country,” Romualdez said. Compared to this year’s outlay, the proposed national budget for 2024 is higher by 9.5 percent. Pangandaman had said in June that the national budget should be passed into law swiftly as it had been pre-approved by President Marcos and the government department heads. She said the individual budgets proposed by government agencies totaled P5.90 trillion before the DBM trimmed it down to P5.768 trillion based on the agencies’ fund utilization capacities and the feasibility of their planned projects. The proposed national budget will also undergo Senate deliberations before the consolidated version will be submitted to Marcos for his signature which would make it a law. Pangandaman said priority allocations of the budget include education, infrastructure, and agriculture projects that are aligned with the goals of the administration’s Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. For agriculture, the allocation was set at P30.87 billion for rice production, P5.28 billion for corn, and P1.94 billion for high-value crops, among others. “Higher investments will also be provided for agricultural support services, such as irrigation and the construction and rehabilitation of fish ports across the country and farm-to-market roads in key production areas,” Pangandaman said. For infrastructure development, the proposed fund amounts to P1.42 trillion or 5.3 percent of the gross domestic product and covers schools, hospitals and health centers, water and power systems, roads, railways and airports. Climate change projects Among other priorities are climate change projects with an allocation of P543.45 billion, its bulk dedicated to water security. Another is social development programs with a proposed fund of P112.8 billion to help 4.4 million families through the cash-transfer program Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program of the Department of Social and Welfare Development. Pangandaman said the pension for indigent senior citizens was doubled to P49.81 billion and would benefit more than 4 million. Meanwhile, the housing allocation was pegged at P9 billion and will be used to shelter 6.5 million families over the next five years. Education received the highest fund proposal as required by the Constitution at P924.7 billion. The Philippines would be “one step closer” to realizing the government’s “transformative vision” for the country once Congress accepts the proposed budget according to President Marcos. In his message, Marcos explained that the proposed budget aims to provide the resources required for government operations and the ongoing pursuit of economic reform. The planned budget is P9.5 trillion more than the P5.268-trillion General Appropriations Act for 2023. “With the Congress’ approval of the proposed (Fiscal Year) 2024 National Budget, we will be one step closer to achieving our transformative vision for the country, the Agenda of Prosperity,” Marcos said. “Our journey has just begun. We will march on — one nation, one people building a better future together,” he added. The President said that the proposed budget for 2024 was a key part of the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, which aims to strengthen the country’s capabilities, protect the buying power of Filipinos, and improve output sectors to create more good jobs and products that can compete globally. “In turn, these strategies are to be supported by an enabling environment characterized by macroeconomic stability, infrastructure development, bureaucratic efficiency, strong rule of law, and effective climate action,” Marcos said. The post House receives P5.7-T proposed nat’l budget appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DoTr chief’s CLA endorsement questioned
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista could face graft charges for endorsing a foreign-owned container monitoring system without undergoing the usual bidding process or a Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) from the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA). Industry insiders who asked not to be named noted the unusual decision by Bautista to endorse the Container Ledger Account (CLA) as an alternative to the controversial container deposit imposed by international shipping lines on importers and brokers for the use of their containers. The (DoTr order) violates Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. In essence, the DoTr endorses container deposits and favors a foreign private entity to collect them. The Transportation chief wrote a letter to all shipping lines about the order, contradicting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s instructions during a Cabinet meeting. In his 12 July letter to Joseph Collantes, operations manager of RCL Feeder Pte. Ltd., and Jesus Sedano, owner’s representative of RCL Feeder, Bautista said: “The delay in refund of container deposits and unreturned deposits in millions of pesos continue to burden and create financial difficulties for many importers that has become an industry problem. Various stakeholders have raised this matter for government intervention in the transport and logistics services sector.” The DoTr secretary added: “The Department of Transportation urges Shipping Lines/Shipping Agents/NVOCCs to accept the following alternative for container deposit practice in the Philippines.” He continued, “Discontinue container deposit practice or continue to collect container deposits contingent upon the ability to refund within 14 days, and subscribe to container deposits from Container Ledger Account subscribers or other providers that offer equivalent services.” But industry insiders questioned Bautista’s order saying the CLA still needs to undergo an RIA from the ARTA. “They are pushing for the CLA, but it did not undergo an RIA. Since 2021, it has been vended by the Association of International Shipping Lines. Then let us read between the lines,” the source told Daily Tribune. Further, the source revealed that during a Cabinet meeting, Bautista endorsed the CLA to President Marcos, apart from reporting that the Trusted Operator Program-Container Registry and Monitoring System or TOP-CRMS will be reviewed by ARTA. Still, the President aired contentions to the CLA. “The President said ‘baka ma-pingpong yan (CLA) [it might by bounced around].’” Bautista told the President, “No, because ARTA is currently reviewing it.” “Then why did the Secretary endorse it to international shipping lines without ARTA releasing the RIA?” the source asked. Only an option ARTA Director General Ernesto Perez was quick to admit the CLA had not undergone an RIA because it was not implemented by way of a regulation by a particular government agency. “No, it has not. To my knowledge, probably because it is not being imposed by way of a regulation by a government agency. But if a stakeholder can show that (the regulation) is being imposed by a government agency-DoTr, then we can ask that it be subjected to an RIA. Otherwise, if it is only an option and the shipping lines are not required to use CLA, then there is no regulation by DoTr to be subjected to an RIA,” Perez explained. ARTA is doing an RIA of all Administrative Orders issued by various government agencies to ensure that regulations are subjected to proper consultations and evidence-based analyses before issuance. The RIA is being done to help government agencies, local government units, and other government instrumentalities enact sound and effective regulations that benefit citizens and stakeholders without causing any undue burden or cost. ARTA on CLA Based on the Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) of ARTA to CLA obtained by Daily Tribune, the source said the CLA is not workable, as it requires the voluntary participation by the CLA principals or subscribers. “Being voluntary, the CLA cannot ensure the issue of the delay in the refund of container deposits. Moreover, CLA also does not address the issue of deductions from the container deposit or amounts associated with alleged damage to containers,” the ARTA RIS on the CLA said. Further, the ARTA RIS stated that considering that the refund of the container deposit is dependent on the approval of the Shipping Line/Shipping Agent/NVOCC (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier), it seems the same issue as the current system, described under Option 1-Status Quo or Do Nothing, remained. The post DoTr chief’s CLA endorsement questioned appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go files bill to modernize coast guard, strengthen maritime protection
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has filed a measure to modernize the Philippine Coast Guard and strengthen its capabilities in safeguarding the country’s maritime resources. The proposed Senate Bill No. 2112 seeks to enhance the PCG’s capacity by providing the service with vital assets and resources that will help in the efficient fulfillment of its duties and responsibilities. The bill's primary objective is to upgrade the coast guard's vessels, aircraft, and equipment to international standards. This will significantly improve response time during maritime incidents and emergencies. "Our coast guard serves as the frontline defense against threats like smuggling and terrorism. Additionally, they provide invaluable assistance during natural disasters and emergencies.” Go said. "However, our coast guard faces several challenges that hamper their effectiveness including outdated equipment, inadequate training, and insufficient funding. Hence, I am proposing this bill to address these issues and modernize our coast guard to better protect our country and our people," he added. If enacted into law, it will allow the PCG to undergo a comprehensive modernization program designed to eliminate accidents at sea, expedite response times during search and rescue operations, and bolster national security efforts. The proposed legislation will also help in the enforcement of Philippine laws in the maritime zone, minimize pollution, and improve response times for recovering and mitigating spills. In a recent incident that highlights the importance of modernizing the PCG, it was reported that on June 30, Chinese Coast Guard vessels and militia aggressively followed and chased two Philippine ships during a resupply mission. The PCG ships, BRP Malabrigo and BRP Malapascua, were providing escort to a small boat delivering supplies to the Philippine Navy ship BRP Sierra Madre. The mission encountered a significant number of Chinese Coast Guard militia vessels, described as an "armada." To address such situations effectively, the bill emphasizes the need to enhance training and capacity-building programs for the PCG, ensuring that personnel are well-prepared for any challenges that may arise. As the implementing agency, the Department of Transportation will have the authority to enter into multi-year contracts, subject to approval by Congress and the President. "Moreover, this bill will establish a system of accountability and transparency in managing the coast guard's resources and operations. It guarantees efficient and effective use of the allocated funds for the modernization of our coast guard," Go said. He further emphasized that “the modernization of our coast guard is crucial for our national security and the safety and well-being of our citizens, particularly those whose livelihood depends on our seas and waterways. We must ensure that our PCG is fully equipped and prepared to protect our waters and our people." As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on National Defense, Go stressed the timeliness and significance of passing this bill, considering recent events concerning the PCG. He said the legislation represents a significant step towards establishing a more modern and capable coast guard capable of effectively safeguarding the country's maritime interests. The measure will be deliberated in the Senate Committee on Public Services. Similarly, Go's instrumental role in the passage of the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, which addresses fire-related incidents nationwide, underscores his commitment to prioritizing Filipinos’ safety and security. The said law, primarily authored and co-sponsored by the senator, mandated measures that will help improve the BFP including the recruitment of more firefighters, acquisition of state-of-the-art fire equipment, and implementation of specialized training programs. The post Bong Go files bill to modernize coast guard, strengthen maritime protection appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hope for RA 1616 retirees
Over a thousand state auditors and numerous more from other government offices, who retired under Republic Act 1616, were pinning their hopes for an additional monthly pension under a Senate bill filed by Senator Chiz Escudero more than a decade ago. Their hopes were unfortunately overtaken by the “holocaust” in the fiscal administration in the Philippines from 2011 to 2014. With the minds of DBM Secretary Florencio Abad and those of some lawmakers in turmoil, over the “kahindik-hindik” (disgusting) audit report on their pork barrel, the bill went nowhere. But today, with a silver lining in every sector of government, there is hope the Escudero bill could move toward approval. During the 16th Congress, Senator Escudero introduced Senate Bill 588: “An Act to Grant Monthly Pension to Government Retirees under R.A. 1616 Who Have Reached the Age of Seventy Years.” Here were the bill’s features: Section I. Declaration of Policy – The Constitution provides that the State shall occasionally review to upgrade the pensions and other benefits due to retirees of both the government and private sectors. As far as possible, it should provide those who have less in life the opportunity to earn a living so that they may play a more active role in social life, especially in the economic and political spheres. It is the duty of the State to create conditions that are necessary to realize the right of all citizens, particularly the underprivileged, to equal opportunity. To this end, the State shall grant a Monthly Pension to government retirees who have availed of retirement benefits under Republic Act No. 1616. Senator Escudero was pushing for this bill. He said government pensioners are provided a gratuity under RA 1616, but the law that was enacted in 1957 could no longer sufficiently provide for the needs of the government retirees five years after the retirement age of 65. “The proposal recognizes that the majority of this class of retirees have been living in abject poverty, and many of them have to depend on close relatives and friends. Aged government personnel who retired need monthly pensions because, at their late age, their opportunities for earning are almost nil,” Escudero said. “The lump sum they received under RA 1616 was greatly eroded by the economic slump and high cost of living. Their economic difficulties were aggravated when the country suffered from the devastating effects of natural calamities,” he added. Under SB 588, the gratuity is payable by the last employer. The employee is also entitled to a refund of the retirement premiums he paid to the GSIS, his personal share with interest, and the government share without interest. The requirements to qualify are: (1) the retirees must be in government service on or before 31 May 1977; (2) has rendered at least 20 years of service regardless of age and employment status; and (3) his/her last three years of service before retirement must be continuous, except in cases of death, disability, abolition or phase out of position due to reorganization. The post Hope for RA 1616 retirees appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
United House gets things done
As the 19th Congress convened on 25 July 2022, then newly-elected House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez immediately saw the need for quick delivery of government services to help the country and our people recover from the ravages of the coronavirus pandemic. Romualdez stressed that the key to achieving this daunting task is for everyone to pull together — and that is what he set himself to do and the impressive performance the House for the First Regular Session of the 19th Congress indicated the wisdom of the path he has chosen. When the House adjourned sine die on 2 June 2023, it managed to approve 33 out of 42 bills listed as priority measures of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council. Moreover, through Romualdez’s stewardship, the bigger chamber was able to process a total of 9,600 measures consisting of 8,490 House bills, 1,109 resolutions, and one petition, with 577 bills approved on third reading. This means the House processed 30 measures per session day, or 10 percent higher than the previous Congress for the same period. In his speech at the House plenary just before the sine die adjournment of the First Regular Session of the 19th Congress recently, Romualdez credited the hard work of the House members for the past 10 months, which helped shape the successes achieved by the legislature in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s socio-economic development agenda. “Needless to say, our first regular session has been both eventful and productive,” Romualdez said. “Congratulations to everyone for this impressive performance. You did not take your jobs lightly. You conducted yourselves with a sense of pride, professionalism and responsibility. You have carried out your individual roles with zest, making sure that you serve as effective voices of your respective constituents.” Likewise, Romualdez expressed gratitude for the significant contributions of the Minority Block, led by Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan. “Your close scrutiny of every piece of legislation has allowed us to bring depth, richness and nuance in the performance of our legislative duties,” Romualdez said. “We also thank all the Deputy Speakers, the Majority Leader, Honorable Manuel Jose ‘Mannix’ M. Dalipe, together with all the Deputy and Assistant Majority Leaders, and Chairpersons of the Standing and Special Committees. With your incessant support, the House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading, 33 out of the 42 priority measures listed in our common legislative agenda.” Among the measures that the House approved on third and final reading during the past 10 months include the proposed Maharlika Investment Fund, Magna Carta of Seafarers, E-Governance Act/E-Government Act, Negros Island Region, Virology Institute of the Philippines, Passive Income and Financial Intermediary Taxation Act, National Disease Prevention Management Authority or Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Medical Reserve Corps, Philippine Passport Act; Internet Transaction Act/E-Commerce Law, Waste-to-Energy Bill, Free Legal Assistance for Police and Soldiers and Apprenticeship Act. Also passed on third reading were the Build-Operate-Transfer Law, Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers, Valuation Reform, Eastern Visayas Development Authority, Leyte Ecological Industrial Zone, Government Financial Institutions Unified Initiatives to Distressed Enterprises for Economic Recovery, National Citizens Service Training Program and National Government Rightsizing. During the final week of sessions, the House gave final approval of LEDAC measures, House Bill 8203, or the proposed Bureau of Immigration Modernization Act; and HB 8278, or the proposed Philippine Salt Industry Development Act. The Speaker reported that the House of Representatives ratified the bicameral conference committee report relative to establishing specialty centers in hospitals under the direct supervision and control of the Department of Health. Moreover, he said it is worthy to note that both Houses of Congress have agreed on a version of the Maharlika Fund, the country’s first-ever sovereign investment fund, designed to promote economic development by making strategic and profitable investments in key sectors including public road networks. The post United House gets things done appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go lauds Super Health Center groundbreaking in Zamboanga City
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, emphasized the significance of investing in health infrastructure, particularly the establishment of Super Health Centers nationwide to bring basic medical services from the government closer to communities. In his video message during the groundbreaking ceremony of Zamboanga City Super Health Center in Barangay Manicahan on Friday, June 30, Senator Go highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach that focuses on bolstering the nation's healthcare system. Through such efforts, the country can better address healthcare challenges and ensure the well-being of its citizens, especially at the grassroots. “The more we should invest sa ating health care. The more na laanan natin ng pondo dahil hindi po natin alam kung ito na ba ang pinakahuling pandemya na darating sa ating buhay. Huwag na po sanang dumating. Sana po’y bumalik na tayo sa normal nating pamumuhay,” Go cited. Senator Go pointed out that Super Health Centers serve as hubs for basic healthcare delivery, providing a wide range of medical services to communities. Super Health Centers offer database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had were allocated under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program of the Department of Health for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The senator emphasized that these Super Health Centers would cater to the needs of underserved areas, especially those lacking adequate healthcare infrastructure. By ensuring that every citizen has access to quality healthcare services, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status, the government can take significant strides towards achieving universal healthcare coverage, Go expressed. “Ngayon tatayuan na kayo ng inyong Super Health Center. Pwede diyan ang dental, laboratory, x-ray, at birthing, panganganak. Ang mga buntis pwede nang manganak diyan. Iyan ang Super Health Center,” the senator said. “Iyan ang pamamaraan na ilapit natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan. Iyan ang Super Health Center,” he highlighted. In line with his priority of protecting the well-being of Filipinos, Go then offered to help any resident who may need medical attention. He encouraged them to visit the Malasakit Centers at the Zamboanga City Medical Center, Mindanao Central Sanitarium, and Labuan General Hospital. The Malasakit Centers program has successfully established 158 centers so far and helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide. It brings together relevant agencies, including DOH, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to help reduce a patient’s hospital expenses to the lowest possible amount. He also continues to take significant steps in his commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for Filipinos by principally sponsoring Senate Bill No. 2212, otherwise known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act. The bill was passed before the session break and is now awaiting the approval of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. If the measure is enacted, in Mindanao, specialty centers will be established at Zamboanga City Medical Center, Northern Mindanao Medical Center in Cagayan de Oro City, Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center in Ozamis City, Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City, Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum City, Cotabato Regional and Medical Center in Cotabato City, Caraga Regional Hospital Surigao City, Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center in Tandag City, and Amai Pakpak Medical Center in Marawi City. The post Bong Go lauds Super Health Center groundbreaking in Zamboanga City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Optimism anchored on accomplishments! (2)
If we were to judge how our country is doing, based on the faces of the Filipinos who joined the parade in commemoration of our country’s 125th Independence Day, it can be said with all fervor that our country is in good hands. The thousands of Filipinos from all sectors of our society, from the national and local governments, all of them in the parade were beaming with joy, and waving to President Bongbong Marcos and his family. The greetings of felicitation were warm, sincere, and mutual between and among many familiar faces, reminiscent of the millions who were with Bongbong in his caravans last May 2022. Ours is indeed a healthy, free, and vibrant democracy. Long live the Republic of the Philippines! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! The record that President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and his son Bongbong hold as builders of the longest bridges was sealed last 31 March when Bongbong led a milestone ceremony for the engineering design for the construction of the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge in Mariveles, Bataan. The 32-kilometer BCIB is a one-of-a-kind structure that will give new hope and bring more progress to all Filipinos. According to Bataan Gov. Jose Enrique Garcia III, the bridge that will cross Manila Bay is poised to become the longest in the country. If the iconic San Juanico bridge was built to connect two provinces, Leyte and Samar, the Bataan-Cavite bridge will connect the two largest regions, one in Central Luzon and the other in Southern Tagalog. The five-year construction of the Bataan-Cavite bridge will start during the first semester of 2024. In pursuit of the hard-to-surpass record of his father and that of his immediate predecessor of building work-of-art infrastructure projects, President Bongbong Marcos announced recently that the government has approved 194 high-impact projects with a total budget of P9 trillion. Of the 194 projects on the list of the National Economic and Development Authority, or NEDA, 123 were initiated by the present administration, while the others were started during the Duterte term. The projects focus on power and energy, digital connectivity, flood management, and transportation infrastructure. Bongbong said the projects are part of his administration’s “Build, Better, More” program to improve the living conditions of the different sectors in the Philippines through modernization and the improvement of the quality of Philippine infrastructure. He pushed for public infrastructure projects that will ease traffic congestion in cities and boost connectivity in the provinces. Bongbong also cited alleviating the country’s food security challenges and reducing the impacts of climate change as priorities of the government. Modern and durable infrastructure will encourage more investors to come to the Philippines, thereby creating jobs and generating revenue for the country. To make the Philippines more attractive to investors, Bongbong explained that NEDA has also changed the guidelines for joint venture programs. Infrastructure means progress. It gives benefits that will not only improve the economy but also the quality of life of every Filipino, Bongbong pointed out. Forty-five of the administration’s major projects will receive funding from the private sector, the NEDA announced earlier, following the past administration’s lead. The government has given the green light to eight projects of the 95 that had been previously approved for implementation. In the meantime, 44 are in pre-project preparation while 47 are undergoing feasibility studies. Marcos said he hopes the new initiatives would increase employment in the country. The infrastructure projects will mean more jobs for our workers, our laborers, and our skilled workers. He said infrastructure projects provided 1.4 million jobs for Filipinos during the pandemic. However, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that there were 2.37 million unemployed Filipinos in January 2023, up from the 2.22 million documented jobless Filipinos in December 2022. That is why the approval of these 194 projects in various parts of the country will bring millions of jobs for our fellow citizens, Bongbong said. (To be continued) The post Optimism anchored on accomplishments! (2) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Regional Specialty Centers eyed
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, author and principal sponsor of the Regional Specialty Center bill, recently stressed the significance of these facilities in providing accessible and specialized healthcare services to Filipinos across the country. In an ambush interview after attending the groundbreaking for the Super Health Center in Digos City, the lawmaker explained that the primary objective of these specialty centers is to bridge the gap between the people and essential specialized healthcare services. To recall, Congress on 31 May ratified the Bicameral Conference Report on the Regional Specialty Centers Act and the measure will soon be transmitted to the Office of the President for the approval of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. By establishing these specialty centers in various regional hospitals, Go believes that it will alleviate the burden faced by patients who have to travel to Manila and other urban areas for specialized treatments. He also said that the Department of Health will identify the regional hospitals capable of housing the specialty centers. The senator stressed the importance of bringing medical services closer to Filipinos who may face challenges in accessing healthcare in Metro Manila. Many citizens lack the means to travel to the capital, have no relatives there, and face additional expenses such as transportation, accommodation and food. With the establishment of the Regional Specialty Center, patients will have the opportunity to receive top-notch medical care from government health facilities in their own regions, saving them time, money and effort. Go also revealed plans to expand specialized medical services at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City to include renal care, brain and spine treatment, and orthopedic services, eliminating the need for patients to travel to the Philippine Orthopedic Center in Quezon City, for example. According to the DoH’s timeline, the establishment of specialty centers in National Capital Region will take place in Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center, Quirino Memorial Medical Center, East Avenue Medical Center, Tondo Medical Center, Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, Valenzuela Medical Center, Las Piñas General Hospital and Satellite Trauma Center, Rizal Medical Center, and Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium. He also said that the Department of Health will identify the regional hospitals capable of housing the specialty centers. In Luzon, specialty centers will be established in Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center, Region I Medical Center, Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center, Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center, Cagayan Valley Medical Center, Region II Trauma and Medical Center, Southern Isabela Medical Center, Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center, Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center, Mariveles Mental Wellness and General Hospital, Batangas Medical Center, Ospital ng Palawan, Culion Sanitarium and General Hospital, Bicol Medical Center, Bicol Region General Hospital, Geriatric Medical Center, Bicol Medical Center, and Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center. The Visayas region will witness the creation of specialty centers in Western Visayas Medical Center, Western Visayas Sanitarium and General Hospital, Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center, Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center and Eastern Visayas Medical Center. In Mindanao, specialty centers will be established in Zamboanga City Medical Center, Northern Mindanao Medical Center, Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center, Southern Philippines Medical Center, Davao Regional Medical Center, Cotabato Regional and Medical Center, Caraga Regional Hospital, Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center, and Amai Pakpak Medical Center. The post Regional Specialty Centers eyed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Internet voting’ could reduce spending – Comelec
The Commission on Elections on Thursday said that they are eyeing reduced spending on logistical costs of overseas voting with the recent approval of overseas Internet voting for the upcoming midterm elections in 2025. In a radio interview, Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said the internet voting scheme for overseas Filipino voters could allow a higher voter turnout while reducing the costs of conducting such elections overseas. Referencing last year’s polls, Laudiangco said that 39 percent of the 1.7 million registered overseas voters cast their votes, despite spending P411 million to ensure that all voters could have one ballot to fill up. Comelec chairman George Erwin Garcia, in a Viber message to reporters, called the said 39-percent turnout ‘dismal’ that needed another mode. “We think that — and because all our ballots are intended for one voter — the problem is that some of them may be far from their post offices or that they may be too lazy to return it. We saw this as a more convenient option as OFWs tend to connect to the internet to call to their families,” Laudiangco said. The Commission En Banc approved the proposal on Wednesday, citing Republic Act Number 9189 or The Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2003, amended in Republic Act Number 10590, which allows the poll body to explore other means to conduct voting procedures overseas. Comelec has already been pushing for a newer automated election system through Fully Automated System with Transparency Audit and Count or FASTrAC which, among other things, is eyeing a multiple voter transmission to city and municipal canvassers, central servers, majority and minority party servers, media servers and citizens’ arm servers. However, unlike the local AES which proposes newer ‘automated counting machines’ or ACMs, internet voting could require the use of a software where registered voters could log in using their accounts. “Our voters will be using their cellphones or any other gadgets and will be given a separate account that cannot be imitated. You will be given a distinct and independent log-in quote and you’ll set your password. Registered voters will be given that account. Of course, they should have access to the internet,” Laudiangco said. Laudiangco added that they are working on proposing the needed budget for such measures before the Congress, including protective measures such as a strong firewall, secured anti-hacking mechanisms and protected encryption. “COMELEC should have a strong firewall. Seven million overseas Filipino voters can make or break an election, can sway the votes so there should be a strong firewall, as well as anti-hacking and high-level encryption,” he said. The post ‘Internet voting’ could reduce spending – Comelec appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DOH: Covid-19 protocol may change after WHO advisory
The Department of Health on Friday said changes in the country’s Covid-19 response could be in place after the World Health Organization declared it was no longer a global emergency. Amid the rising cases here – with infection rate reaching 25 percent in some regions – the DOH said it will convene the inter-agency task force and possibly set a new minimum health standard throughout the country. "The DOH will convene the members of the Inter-Agency Task Force for Emerging Infectious Diseases to discuss and reassess policies and other guidelines affected by the declaration," said the DOH statement. "The DOH guarantees the Filipino people that all factors in determining our next action in line with the WHO’s proclamation will be considered and discussed for the approval of the President," it added. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had earlier announced that the pandemic, which reportedly killed more than 20 million worldwide, is still around. The Philippines has also seen an increase in cases in the past few weeks including the hike in hospitalization rate. Authorities even contemplated reimposing the mask mandate for all citizens. The post DOH: Covid-19 protocol may change after WHO advisory appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Use of Sinovac on seniors gets approval from FDA
The Food and Drug Administration yesterday approved the use of Sinovac vaccines for senior citizens, upon recommendation of the Vaccine Expert Panel......»»
Why the Sinovac vaccine isn t for medical workers, senior citizens despite FDA approval
FDA not recommending Sinovac for health workers has raised concern over the jabs. So what's behind the reason for this?.....»»