Unity, cooperation key to climate crisis – Mayor Abby
Makati City Mayor Abby Binay batted for unity and cooperation among world leaders to further understand the urgency to mitigate climate crisis. This is what the city mayor said as she advocated for creating a cleaner and more sustainable world, when she went to Melbourne, Australia to attend one of the world’s premiere forums on climate change and promoting the use of clean energy in other cities and countries around the globe. The lady mayor was the speaker at the Cities Power Partnership’s Climate Summit for Local Government which started on 6 September and lasted for three days. The mayor delivered a keynote address to the session supported by the Global Covenant of Mayors where she is also a board member and a representative of Southeast Asia. “Makati is not a perfect city, but we have a lot of studies that we could share to other cities. I will continue to do my part for other leaders like me to further understand the urgency to mitigate climate crisis and remind everyone of the importance of unity and cooperation,” Binay said. Spearheaded by Australia’s top officials and leaders, the Cities Power Partnership’s Climate Summit for Local Government has been regarded as one of the most important events in the country as all its mayors and members of their council attend the momentous event. “This means key decision makers and thought leaders were given the chance to exchange ideas and suggestions for the conceptualization of stronger and more effective programs for climate action,” Binay explained. The local chief executive said she spoke about “COP28 and the Opportunities for Cities” as part of her preparations for the upcoming 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties to be held from November to December in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. She stressed the significance of such conferences to countries committed to a sustainable, resilient, and climate-responsive future. The post Unity, cooperation key to climate crisis – Mayor Abby appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
OVP permanent office ‘still in the pipeline’
The Office of the Vice President is still looking to build a permanent office, OVP chief of staff Atty. Zuleika Lopez said Monday. During the budget deliberation for the proposed P2.385 billion budget of the Office of the Vice President, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian asked the OVP whether it has plans to construct a permanent office. “There is a plan. We are still under negotiations for land acquisition for the construction of our OVP permanent office," Lopez told the Senate Committee on Finance. Asked if the budget for the construction of the permanent office of the OVP is included in the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, Lopez reiterated that the OVP is still under negotiations for land acquisition. “It's still in the pipeline because it's still undergoing negotiations as to the matter of land acquisition. We are considering sites for the said OVP building,” she said. “It is a planned project for the term of the Vice President,” she added. Vice President Sara Duterte, who physically attended the budget deliberation, previously vowed to erect a permanent office for the succeeding vice presidents of the country. Last year, OVP spokesperson Reynold Munsayac said the move aims to “reduce cost in office operations.” Currently, the OVP, headed by Duterte, is leasing an office in Mandaluyong City. The previous vice presidents of the country such as lawyers Leni Robredo and Jejomar Binay held office at the Quezon City Reception House and Coconut Palace, respectively. The post OVP permanent office ‘still in the pipeline’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Binay: Focus on modern info tech instead of burdening Filipino travelers
Senator Nancy Binay on Tuesday said the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking should focus more on maximizing modern technology and profiling improvement to fight human trafficking in the country instead of burdening Filipino travelers with strict document requirements. Binay, who chairs the Senate Committee on Tourism, said that the revised departure guidelines set by the IACAT are very restrictive to Filipino travelers “yet inconclusive in stopping human trafficking. Hence, the senator said the IACAT and other related agencies should also be mindful of improving their profiling of travelers as she finds the policy of providing additional travel documents "coercive, restrictive and redundant." Binay said the presence of technology is there to make it convenient for passengers and make them feel secure. Technology also plays a huge role in curbing human trafficking, she added. "Kung kaduda-duda talaga ang background ng byahero at kasamang biktima (If a traveler's background is indeed suspicious including the victim)—that's the time immigration people should do their jobs of cross-checking the info they have in their database and compare it to the claims of the person in question,” Binay further stressed. She then appealed: ”Let's maximize the use of information technology to correctly profile travelers.” Binay lamented that immigration officials should use a combination of methods and criteria to determine travelers who may pose a security risk. “We all know that visa applications are all scrutinized for accuracy and consistency. Kapag medyo kaduda-duda ang impormasyong nakalagay, expect an outright rejection of your application. Ang dapat sigurong higpitan yung mga babyahe papunta sa countries na walang visa at mataas ang human trafficking cases—in this case, cross referencing is necessary to check the background of a particular traveler,” she said. The Department of Justice and Bureau of Immigration, she said, must deploy officers who are well-trained to interpret data contextually and make informed decisions based on the info at hand. Of course, human judgment is prone to mistakes that's why oversight is essential. Kaya dapat trained professional ang nasa frontlines to treat every traveler with respect and sensitivity, at magkaroon tayo ng mechanisms to address false positives to protect an individual's rights," Binay further stressed. The IACAT recently announced the imposition of the revised guidelines for Filipinos leaving the country beginning on 3 September. Under the revised guidelines, outbound passengers should present the basic travel documents consisting of a passport with at least six months validity from the date of departure; an appropriate valid visa whenever required; a confirmed return or roundtrip ticket, if necessary; and a boarding pass. For tourists, immigration officials may also ask for proof of hotel booking/accommodation, financial capacity or source of income; passenger’s declared purpose of travel, proof of employment, and other similar documents. Immigration officials may also ask outbound travelers for a copy of their original Philippine Statistics Authority-issued birth certificate or report of birth or marriage certificate/report of marriage, copies of documents of sponsor, valid work visa or permit, residency permit, or any equivalent document, overseas employment certificate, e-receipt, or OFW clearance for OFW sponsors. If traveling through a relative’s sponsorship, an original affidavit of support and guarantee duly notarized by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate/Honorary Consulate must be presented. The post Binay: Focus on modern info tech instead of burdening Filipino travelers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Abby: Makati to still serve ‘EMBO’ students
The Makati City government will continue to provide services to the 45,000 students of “embo” barangays that have since been declared a part of Taguig, Makati Mayor Abby Binay said yesterday......»»
Bataan 3rd engineering district creation approved
The provincial government of Bataan announced on Sunday that the Senate has already approved the measure which seeks to establish the province’s Third District Engineering Office of the Department of Public Works and Highways. Bataan Third District Representative Gila Garcia said that the measure — House Bill 7539 or An Act Creating a District Engineering Office in the Third Legislative District of the Province of Bataan — was approved during the hearing of the Senate Committee on Public Works chaired by Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. The measure was sponsored by Garcia and Bataan Second District Representative Abet Garcia. Joining the Bataan solon during the hearing were District Engineer Maribel D. Navarro, her secretary Mercy J. Romero, and Assistant District Engineer Henry John U. Morada of DPWH’s 3rd DEO. The neophyte lady solon, sister of incumbent Bataan Governor Joet Garcia also expressed gratitude to Senator Robinhood Padilla, Senator Bato dela Rosa and Senator Nancy Binay who are members of the Committee, together with House Committee Chair Cong. Romeo Momo, Vice Chair Ramon Jolo Revilla III and House Committee Secretariat on Public Works. The Garcias expressed optimism that the creation of additional DPWH district will provide additional funds and benefits to the province of Bataan in terms of infrastructures, among others. The post Bataan 3rd engineering district creation approved appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Abby Binay waiting for sign to run in Taguig
The camp of Makati City Mayor Abby Binay said the lady mayor is considering running for mayor of Taguig City to take back the 10 enlisted men's barrios. During a television interview, Mayor Binay mentioned that running for mayor in Taguig City was an option for her, following the Supreme Court's decision that EMBOs fall under their jurisdiction. She also discussed the possibility of conducting a plebiscite. “I am waiting for a sign before I decide to run as mayor of Taguig City in 2025 aside from the option of a plebiscite to take back our territory,” said Binay. “I still have not fully decided on that matter because it will be a big task for me. One, I am not familiar with Taguig City. But one thing, I can lay down many programs for Taguig,” Binay added. The mayor stated that she would only run for the mayoralty race if she saw a high chance of winning. “Of course, hindi naman ako mag-decide if I cannot see that I don’t have a fighting chance. But I am getting so much pressure from the residents of EMBO,” she said. Currently, the residents of affected barangays are leading a signature campaign to gather enough support before filing for a plebiscite. According to the law, the signatures of 20 percent of the total voting population of the area are required for consideration. The post Abby Binay waiting for sign to run in Taguig appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Makati City scores anew
Six days after taking over the management and supervision of the 14 schools affected by the dragging boundary dispute between Makati and Taguig City, the Department of Education gave Makati City the go-signal to distribute school supplies to the affected students in 10 EMBO barangays the Supreme Court had ordered transferred to Taguig City. In a letter to Makati City Mayor Abby Binay dated 22 August, DepEd Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Michael Wesley Poa said Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte had approved the former’s request to distribute the school supplies, including the use of the school facilities. Binay earlier wrote to Vice President Duterte seeking permission to distribute school supplies in the 14 public schools to alleviate the financial burden on parents who would otherwise have to purchase new school supplies. “On behalf of the city government and all the intended beneficiaries in the 14 public schools, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte. We are thankful that she has the best interest of the students at heart in making a prudent and just decision,” Binay said, adding that the distribution would go on until 29 August when classes start. The 14 public schools are Fort Bonifacio Elementary School, Cembo Elementary School, South Cembo Elementary School, Pitogo Elementary School, East Rembo Elementary School, Rizal Elementary School, Comembo Elementary School, West Rembo Elementary School, Pembo Elementary School, Makati Science High School, Benigno “Ninoy” S. Aquino High School, Tibagan High School, Fort Bonifacio High School and Pitogo High School. Parents, school kids cheer Mayor Binay, accompanied by her husband, Makati 2nd District Rep. Luis Campos, distributed school supplies at Pembo Elementary School and Pitogo High School yesterday. School supplies will be given to all 45,000 students in the 14 public schools in 10 former barangays within Fort Bonifacio — Pembo, Comembo, Cembo, South Cembo, West Rembo, East Rembo, Pitogo, Rizal, Northside and Southside. Upon arriving at the Pembo Elementary School, Binay and her entourage were cheered by the parents and students who had been waiting for her since 10 a.m. Her arrival at 2 p.m. elicited applause and shouts of “Abby, Abby” from the crowd, many of whom were crying, including the children who rushed to hug the mayor. The parents were particularly ecstatic because they said the school supplies they received from Taguig were not comparable to what they received from Makati. Package contents Under the expanded Project FREE (Free Relevant and Excellent Education) of Makati, public school students from kindergarten to senior high school, including Special Education students in elementary and high school, receive school uniforms and supplies. Students in all levels each receive school uniforms, PE T-shirts and jogging pants. School bags, caps and anti-dengue kits are also given to kindergarten pupils. Elementary students each receive a pair of black leather shoes, three pairs of white socks, Randoseru bags (Grades 1 and 4), dengue kits, and school supplies consisting of 10 notebooks, five intermediate pads, and five ballpoint pens and pencils. Junior and senior high school students receive black shoes and socks, and the same school supplies package given to elementary students, with a Math graphing notebook added. Grades 11 and 12 students also get a jacket with hoodie. For SPED students in elementary and high school, the city provides a school supplies package, uniforms, leather shoes and three pairs of socks, and anti-dengue kits for elementary SPED. Schools to be rented out Asked what would happen to the 14 schools formerly under Makati City, Binay said they would be rented out to Taguig as the former held the titles to them. In a Facebook post, Binay said there was a “last-minute attempt” by the Taguig City government to halt the distribution even if Makati had written authorization to carry it out. Taguig City has also started distributing school packages to the students of the city, including those at the EMBO schools. Duterte issued DepEd Order No. 023 last week, titled “Assumption of authority of the Department of Education over the 14 public schools affected by the Supreme Court decision in G.R. No. 235316.” According to the order, DepEd is mandated to promote every Filipino’s right to accessible, equitable, and quality education which is consistent with its mandate to provide a safe and enabling environment for learners, teachers, and personnel. Duterte, in her order, said that relative to the SC’s final and executory decision in the case titled Municipality of Makati vs Municipality of Taguig (G.R. No. 235316), the Department of is cognizant of the increasing tension present in the 14 schools affected by the ruling, that caused uncertainty as to the peaceful and orderly reopening of schools on 29 August 2023. It further stated that in the pursuit of protecting the best interest and welfare of the learners, teachers, and non-teaching personnel, “the Office of the Secretary shall directly supervise the management and administration of all 14 schools, pending a transition plan, effective immediately.” Duterte created a transition committee composed of the regional director (assigned outside of the National Capital Region); DepEd Schools Division Superintendent of Taguig-Pateros; the DepEd Schools Superintendent of Makati City; City Legal Officer of Makati and City Legal Officer of Taguig. Binay has since stood her ground that all 14 public schools are titled to Makati City and therefore Taguig City has no jurisdiction over it, though Mayor Lani Cayetano refuted the claim saying it was included in the SC order that is final and executory. The post Makati City scores anew appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mayor Abby lauds DepEd intervention
Makati City Mayor Abby Binay expressed her gratitude to Vice President and Department of Education Secretary Sara Duterte yesterday for her timely intervention in the management and supervision of the 14 public schools caught in the territorial dispute between Makati City and the City of Taguig. Binay said that amid the tension, she is very thankful to Duterte for being the voice of reason on the issue and is very grateful that her office will directly manage and supervise the 14 schools in the 10 barangays affected by the decision of the Supreme Court. Binay said her apprehensions and worries were alleviated due to DepEd Order No. 023, Series of 2023 which ensures the welfare of all students, parents, and teachers are protected. On 16 August DepEd issued Order No. 23, Series of 2023, or the “Assumption of Authority of the Department of Education over the 14 public schools affected by Supreme Court decision in G.R. No. 235316” signed by Duterte. DepEd said the order was issued following the increased tension between the two local government units regarding the management and supervision of the affected schools which poses uncertainty to the peaceful and orderly reopening of classes on 29 August. All activities in relation to the 14 public schools must first go through DepEd and be approved by VP Sara. This includes any activities by the city governments of Makati and Taguig. Taguig City can no longer enter and hold any activity inside the said schools without first informing and asking for permission from the DepEd. The order of the VP and DepEd Secretary also nullifies all previous orders and issuance from other branches of the national government in relation to the transfer of jurisdiction. She noted that Makati’s transition team is prepared to cooperate with DepEd to ensure the smooth transition of the schools. She also assured that the welfare of teachers, the youth, and their parents will always come first. The lady mayor said she is hoping no one will violate the said order. She added that it is not a good example for the youth if the leaders are not setting a good example by not following the directives and guidelines mandated by DepEd. Binay said Makati will follow the rule of law and all other regulations to be implemented during the transition. Binay said there are around 30,000 to 48,000 students studying in the 14 affected schools. The post Mayor Abby lauds DepEd intervention appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Manila mayor expresses gratitude
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna has expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all who condoled the family on the passing of their patriarch, former Vice Mayor Danny Lacuna. “On behalf of the Lacuna family, I would like to send our sincerest gratitude. Words cannot express our heartfelt thanks for the sympathy, love, and prayers you have offered to our family during these difficult times,” said Lacuna in a statement. Former and current government officials paid their respects to the late vice mayor including former President Gloria-Macapagal Arroyo and former First Gentleman Mike Arroyo, former Vice President Jejomar Binay, former Senator and now Batangas Representative Ralph Recto, former House Speaker Sonny Belmonte and Senator Bong Revilla Jr. Even Senator Jinggoy Estrada — whose father, former President Joseph Estrada with whom the Asenso Manileno had a previous falling out — went to the wake and even recounted how the former vice mayor visited the Estradas while they were detained in Camp Crame. The Manila mayor, on the other hand, vowed to continue the legacy of her father which is putting God above all else and letting Him be the guide in providing service while in public office. The post Manila mayor expresses gratitude appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Lacuna family expresses gratitude to everyone who offered their condolences
On behalf of the Lacuna family, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna would like to thank everyone who offered their condolences to her and the entire family following the passing of their patriarch, former Manila Vice Mayor Danny Lacuna. "Words cannot express our heartfelt thanks for the sympathy, love, and prayers you have offered to our family during these difficult times," she added in a statement. Former and current government officials paid their last respects to VM Danny, including former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and ex-First Gentleman Mike Arroyo, former Vice President Jejomar Binay, former Senator and now Batangas representative Ralph Recto, former Speaker Sonny Belmonte, and Senator Bong Revilla. Even Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, whose father former President Joseph Estrada with whom the Asenso Manileño had a previous falling out, went to the wake and even recounted how VM Danny visited the Estradas while they were detained in Camp Crame. Mayor Honey has vowed to uphold her father's legacy of placing God above everything else and allowing Him to guide her in serving the public while in office. She also said that Asenso Manileño, which was founded and nurtured by the late Vice Mayor, will do its best to make the party retain its status as the dominant local party in the city. Under VM Danny's tutelage, the party has so far produced two mayors—former Mayor Isko Moreno and incumbent Mayor Honey Lacuna. The party was also successful in winning all local elective positions, including the mayor, vice mayor, congressmen, and city councilors. The post Lacuna family expresses gratitude to everyone who offered their condolences appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
EMBO schools ownership up to courts — DepEd
The Department of Education yesterday said the courts will be the ones to decide who owns the 14 schools at the Enlisted Men's Barrios (EMBOs) built by the city government of Makati and now under the territorial jurisdiction of Taguig City. This was clarified by DepEd spokesman Undersecretary Michael Wesley Poa, saying the department has ordered the formation of a committee to ensure a smooth transition of management of the said schools to Taguig, noting the transition plan will include details on utilities, existing contracts, and transfer of teachers. With the order issued by Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte, the schools were placed under the direct supervision of the Office of the Secretary of Education during the transition. The 14 public schools located in the affected barangays in District 2 and would be under the Office of the Secretary's supervision are Fort Bonifacio Elementary School, Cembo Elementary School, South Cembo Elementary School, Pitogo Elementary School, East Rembo Elementary School, Rizal Elementary School, Comembo Elementary School, West Rembo Elementary School, Pembo Elementary School, Makati Science High School, Benigno “Ninoy” S. Aquino High School, Tibagan High School, Fort Bonifacio High School, and Pitogo High School. Meanwhile, the DepEd official said the 29 August school opening will not be moved, adding that both local governments are in agreement about the issue. Poa said what remains in dispute, is the ownership of the 14 school buildings. "It is clear there is a Supreme Court decision. The contention is the ownership of the school buildings or structures. When it comes to ownership of the school buildings, DepEd is not involved in it. They can discuss it in the proper forum, whether it is a court or somewhere else," Poa said. "That is disputed actually. For DepEd, it would be inappropriate for us to give an opinion on that because that is a legal dispute between the cities. What happened is the school buildings were built during the time that Makati has territorial jurisdiction. But with the Supreme Court decision, it was transferred to Taguig," he added. Last Thursday, Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay welcomed the decision of Duterte to take over the management and supervision of the 14 schools. "We look forward to working wholeheartedly with the transition team created by the Vice President," she said in a statement. "This decision will greatly ease the worries and concerns of our students, parents, and teachers. Kaisa kami ni Vice President Sara sa kanyang layunin. Unahin natin ang kapakanan ng ating mga guro, mga kabataan at kanilang mga magulang," Binay added. The Supreme Court earlier ruled with finality that areas comprising the EMBOs and the entirety of Fort Andres Bonifacio belong to Taguig City. Binay, however, said the land and school buildings built in those areas were procured by the Makati City government. She noted the Supreme Court decision only tackled territorial jurisdiction and not the issue of ownership. "We procured those properties. It is by sale. How come that they will be the ones to own it by virtue of the Supreme Court decision? What they are saying is the whole of Fort Bonifacio is theirs. We're not talking about political jurisdiction, we are talking about ownership," Binay said in an earlier interview. Binay said that since ownership of the school buildings resides with the Makati City government, she is willing to allow Taguig to use the buildings with just compensation. For its part, the Taguig government has denied that it tried to forcibly take over public schools in its territory. Taguig City said the Department of Education issued a Memorandum Order 2023-735 that transferred the management and supervision of the affected schools from the DepEd Division of Makati to the Division of Taguig and Pateros. "Taking their cue from the DepEd order, the public school officials, teachers, parents, community leaders, and the City of Taguig have been conducting regular meetings in preparation for the Brigada Eskwela and the opening of the school year," the statement stated. "It is in this context that the DepEd Superintendent of Taguig and Pateros has requested assistance from the City of Taguig, including the deployment of security personnel to ensure the welfare of the students, teachers, and staff, and the peaceful and orderly conduct of the aforesaid activities," it added. The post EMBO schools ownership up to courts — DepEd appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
EMBO teachers worried over Makati-Taguig feud
While the cities of Makati and Taguig are engaged in a tug-of-war on who should exercise control and management of the 14 schools in the enlisted men’s barrio, teachers are wary about its effects on the learners. Raniel Enguancho Biala, a grade 10 teacher at the Benigno Aquino High School in Barangay Comembo, in an interview, said the opening of classes is just around the corner but the dispute between the two cities are affecting the preparation not only of the students but all the stakeholders including teaching personnel. He said there is an urgent need for the writ of execution to be released immediately because it will give them the guide. Biala is basing his observation in an interview with Mayor Abby Binay and he quote, “It is a written command authorizing the office of the said city to implement the decision that has become final and executory.” “So we are waiting for that order because it is a legal basis to the basic issue of who will manage the 14 public schools in the 10 barangays that have been the subject of the Supreme Court ruling,” said the teacher. While the WoE is yet to be issued by the court everything is hanging and the teachers are waiting for a meeting this week so they would know what will they do when the classes open on 29 August. Bial said at present the situation is somewhat hazy and as a teacher he is receiving messages from the parents about what will happen to their children if the school supplies are not given to their children. The free school supplies were rejected by Mayor Lani Cayetano, who proposed that it be given to the victims of calamities. The problem, according to the teacher, is what will be the benefits they (teachers) will get from Taguig City that include the students since in two weeks time the classes will open but they have yet to see some development. Even if there are the so-called meetings held by officials, the needs of the teachers for their teaching chores are not highlighted and what is being tackled are the needs of the students which are also vague. “It seems they are talking always about the needs of the students but the needs of the teachers are not mentioned. I think they need to consider it also because in the case of Makati City we are provided without basic needs that we can utilize in our teaching chores,” said the teacher. The teachers of the EMBO barangays are provided with laptops and other materials and also allowances. But now the teachers feel that they will go back to the basics of using cartolinas when they teach because it is possible that the laptops issued to them by Makati City will be taken away. The post EMBO teachers worried over Makati-Taguig feud appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Makati Mayor Binay welcomes VP Sara’s takeover of 14 EMBO schools
Makati City Mayor Abby Binay welcomed the decision of Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte to take over the management and supervision of the 14 schools affected by the boundary dispute between Makati and Taguig City. “We look forward to working wholeheartedly with the transition team created by the Vice President. This decision will greatly ease the worries and concerns of our students, parents and teachers. Kaisa kami ni Vice President Sara sa kanyang layunin. Unahin natin ang kapakanan ng ating mga guro, mga kabataan at kanilang mga magulang,” Binay said. Duterte issued DepEd Order No. 023 dated 26 August 2023 titled “Assumption of authority of the Department of Education over the 14 public schools affected by the Supreme Court decision in G.R. No. 235316.” The order stated that the DepEd is mandated to promote every Filipino’s right to accessible, equitable, and quality education which is consistent with its mandate to provide a safe and enabling environment for learners, teachers, and personnel. Duterte in her order said that relative to the SC’s final and executory decision in the case titled Municipality of Makati vs. Municipality of Taguig (G.R. No. 235316), the Department of is cognizant of the increasing tension present in the 14 schools affected by the ruling, that caused uncertainty as to the peaceful and orderly reopening of schools on 29 August 2023. It further stated that in the pursuit of protecting the best interest and welfare of the learners, teachers and non-teaching personnel, “the Office of the Secretary shall directly supervise the management and administration of all 14 schools, pending a transition plan, effective immediately." The transition committee created by Duterte is composed of the regional director (assigned outside of the National Capital Region); DepEd Schools Division Superintendent of Taguig-Pateros; DepEd Schools Superintendent of Makati City; City Legal Officer of Makati and City Legal Officer of Taguig. Sara said the transition committee shall undertake the preparation of a physical inventory of all properties involved: collate transition documents including, but not limited to, a complete list of existing contracts involving operations of the subject schools and create a final transition plan. During the transition period, all activities to be conducted within the premises of and/or in relation to the public schools, that involve the local government units of Makati and Taguig, shall require prior approval from the office of the Secretary. The schools head was also ordered to directly report and defer to the OSec on matter pertaining to the daily operations of the subject public schools. Duterte likewise stated that the Philippine National Police will strictly implement the order and all existing orders, memoranda, and other issuances are repealed rescinded or modified. Binay has since stood her ground that all 14 public schools are titled to Makati City and therefore Taguig City has no jurisdiction over it, though Mayor Lani Cayetano refuted the claim saying it was included in the SC order that is final and executory. The Duterte order somewhat quelled the animosity among the residents of the EMBO schools since many people has arrived which are unknown to the neighbourhood that creates uneasiness. The post Makati Mayor Binay welcomes VP Sara’s takeover of 14 EMBO schools appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Binay: Makati-Taguig school feud an issue of ownership
The ongoing feud between the local governments of Makati and Taguig over the 14 schools affected by their territorial dispute is an issue of ownership, Makati Mayor Abby Binay said yesterday......»»
Taguig rejects Makati help to EMBO studes
Taguig City has rejected the offer of Makati City to continue providing free uniforms, shoes, supplies and other school needs of 30,000 public schools students in the 10 barangays covered by a Supreme Court decision on the boundary dispute between the two cities. Makati City Administrator Claro Certeza said Taguig officials rejected the offer in a meeting last July with Mayor Abby Binay and officials of the Department of Education. Mayor Lani Cayetano was present during the meeting. “We have offered an arrangement that would benefit the students. But Taguig rejected it,” he said. Certeza said Mayor Abby proposed a status quo where Makati will continue its services in the affected schools to ease the worries of the students and their parents and avoid disruption in school operations. The Taguig officials, however, rejected the offer and told Makati to stop distributing the students’ school needs starting this school year. Since the 1990s, Makati has been providing all public school students with free school uniforms and school supplies. Makati students under the administration of Mayor Abby Binay, also receive sneakers, white socks and black leather shoes, reusable water tumblers, and Japanese-inspired Randoseru bags. Students also receive hygiene kits, dental kits, anti-dengue kits, hard hats and Emergency Go Bags, rain gear including rain coats and rain boots and jackets. Last March, Mayor Abby launched Project FEED (Food for Excellent Education and Development) which provides students from Kinder to Grade 6 with nutritious snacks every school day. The students are also provided with free educational experiential learning trips every school year. “For the sake of the youth and the residents of the 10 affected barangays, please let us provide free school gear and supplies to the students. Let us make them our priority,” Certeza said. He said they are hoping that compassion for residents prevail and work together so that their welfare and lives will not be affected. Certeza said Makati’s offer will greatly ease the worries of both parents and students in the affected barangays. “Makati has offered to continue to provide these benefits to ease the worries of the students and their parents. We have asked COA for guidance on how best to proceed, but we are willing and ready any time,” he said. Certeza said the offer still stands despite the provocative action of Taguig. The 14 public schools located in the affected barangays in District 2 are Fort Bonifacio Elementary School, Cembo Elementary School, South Cembo Elementary School, Pitogo Elementary School, East Rembo Elementary School, Rizal Elementary School, Comembo Elementary School, West Rembo Elementary School, Pembo Elementary School, Makati Science High School, Benigno “Ninoy” S. Aquino High School, Tibagan High School, Fort Bonifacio High School, and Pitogo High School. The post Taguig rejects Makati help to EMBO studes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Taguig rejects Makati offer to provide free school supplies to EMBO students
Taguig has rejected an offer from Makati to continue providing free uniforms, shoes, supplies and other school needs of some 30,000 public schools students in the 10 barangays covered by a Supreme Court decision on the boundary dispute between the two cities. Makati City Administrator Claro Certeza said Taguig officials rejected the offer in a meeting last July with Mayor Abby Binay and officials of the Department of Education. Mayor Lani Cayetano was present during the meeting. “We have offered an arrangement that would benefit the students. But Taguig rejected it,” he said. According to Certeza, Binay proposed a status quo where Makati would continue its services in the affected schools to ease the worries of the students and their parents and avoid disruption in school operations. The Taguig officials, however, rejected the offer and told Makati to stop distributing the students’ school needs starting this school year. Since the 1990s, Makati has been providing all public school students with free school uniforms and school supplies. Under Mayor Abby Binay, Makati students also receive sneakers, white socks and black leather shoes, reusable water tumblers and Japanese-inspired Randoseru bags. Students also receive hygiene kits, dental kits, anti-dengue kits, hard hats and Emergency Go Bags, rain gear including rain coats and rain boots and jackets. Last March, Binay launched Project FEED (Food for Excellent Education and Development) which provides students from Kinder to Grade 6 with nutritious snacks every school day. The students are also provided with free educational experiential learning trips every school year. “Alang-alang sa kapakanan ng mga kabataan at mga mamamayan ng sampung apektadong barangay, hayaan nyo na kaming magbigay ng libreng gamit at supplies ng mga estudyante. Sila po sana ang unahin natin,” Certeza said. (For the sake of the youth and the residents of the 10 affected barangays, please let us provide free school gear and supplies to the students. Let us make them our priority.) “Nawa’y mangibabaw ang malasakit sa mga mamamayan at magtulungan tayo upang hindi maapektuhan ang kanilang kapakanan at pamumuhay,” he said. (May compassion for the residents prevail and work together so that their welfare and lives will not be affected.) Certeza said Makati’s offer will greatly ease the worries of both parents and students in the affected barangays. “Makati has offered to continue to provide these benefits to ease the worries of the students and their parents. We have asked COA for guidance on how best to proceed, but we are willing and ready any time,” he said. Certeza said the offer still stands despite the provocative action of Taguig. Earlier, Certeza appealed to Taguig to follow the rule of law to avoid creating unnecessary and unwanted tension in the affected areas, as it did over the weekend. The 14 public schools located in the affected barangays in District 2 are Fort Bonifacio Elementary School, Cembo Elementary School, South Cembo Elementary School, Pitogo Elementary School, East Rembo Elementary School, Rizal Elementary School, Comembo Elementary School, West Rembo Elementary School, Pembo Elementary School, Makati Science High School, Benigno “Ninoy” S. Aquino High School, Tibagan High School, Fort Bonifacio High School, and Pitogo High School. -- Sincerely, Information and Community Relations Department Makati City Telephone +632 899.8938 The post Taguig rejects Makati offer to provide free school supplies to EMBO students appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Makati resists Taguig City attempt to takeover 14 public schools at EMBO
Taguig City personnel's attempt to take over the 14 schools in ten enlisted men's barrio (EMBO) on Saturday, 12 August was thwarted by a barricade of combined force of residents non-government organizations, Bantay Bayan, and the police. As early as 6:00 a.m. the barricade was put up near the said schools as they get ready for the arrival of those ordered to take over the schools. In a one-page notice to proceed signed by Dr. Cynthia L. Ayles, officer-in-charge of the Schools Division Superintendent of Taguig City, Mr. Alvin I. Riberfa, the authorized representative of Joint Ventures of Best Security Agency, Inc. and Best Arms Security Agency Inc., was directed to assign and deploy the necessary number of security guard to man the public schools. The schools indicated in the notice are Fort Bonifacio Elementary School, Cembo Elementary School, South Cembo Elementary School, Pitogo Elementary School, East Rembo Elementary School, Comembo Elementary School, West Rembo Elementary School, Pembo Elementary School, Makati Science High School, Benigno S. Aquino High School, Tibagan High School, Bonifacio High School and Pitogo High School. However, Makati City General Services Officer Arnold Magpantay quickly directed Jaime M. Dimaano, authorized the representative of Greatstar Security Services Inc. to implement strict security measures and safeguard the property by not allowing the personnel from Taguig City to enter the school premises without written consent from the city government of Makati. The concerned residents, bantay bayan, NGOs, and the police of Makati City immediately deployed their personnel to prevent the apparent takeover without the necessary papers from the city government of Makati and even from the court. When the entourage from Taguig City composed of the Traffic Management Office and the supposed security guards to be deployed arrived they failed to implement the takeover because they could not show any pertinent papers for their action. Earlier, Makati City Mayor Abby Binay said the schools and other facilities at the 10 EMBO barangays are titled with the city government and said it cannot be taken by Taguig City even if they have won the jurisdictional case as per the Supreme Court ruling. Further, Makati City challenged Taguig City to show their numbers to make sure that they can give the necessary services amounting to P9 billion the city has been giving its 322,000 residents that will be under their wings now base on the court ruling. Residents are also wary of the free maintenance medicines, school uniforms and other services Makati has been giving them since time immemorial. The only response the residents has been receiving from Mayor Lani Cayetano is that they can give the necessary services without elaborating where the city government will get it. The post Makati resists Taguig City attempt to takeover 14 public schools at EMBO appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Michael Leyva’s ‘Isang Pilipinas’ weaves a Filipino story
The 8 August fashion spectacle that unfolded at the Goldenberg Mansion in Manila was a trip of the senses. Michael Leyva, a most prolific designer who dressed up over a hundred people in the last State of the Nation Address, showcased a moving story of the Filipino weaving traditions, first taking his audience to his travels around Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao to touch base with local textile makers. [caption id="attachment_169568" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuña, Cristalle Belo-Pitt, Angeline Tham and George Royeca.[/caption] As his 55-piece collection unfolded beginning with an opening segment featuring Heart Evangelista, the Goldenberg grounds was transformed into a magical space that took viewers into the glorious days of Philippine gentility. With live music from the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra and production by Robbie Carmona, the third Fashion at Goldenberg was another feather in First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ cap. [caption id="attachment_169567" align="aligncenter" width="2008"] First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos (fourth from left) with Senators Nancy Binay, Sonny Angara, Win Gatchalian, Chiz Escudero and Robinhood Padilla.[/caption] The post Michael Leyva’s ‘Isang Pilipinas’ weaves a Filipino story appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Michael Leyva to showcase the best of Philippine textiles at Goldenberg Mansion
The staidly grand Goldenberg Mansion, one of the three Malacanang heritage houses recently reopened to the public, once again comes alive tonight with “Isang Pilipinas,” a showcase of Philippine indigenous and traditional textiles as interpreted by fashion designer du jour Michael Leyva. The third in the "Fashion at Goldenberg" series, a project of the First Lady, Liza Marcos Araneta, tonight’s expectedly dazzling show is Michael’s tribute to Filipino ingenuity, where “I am highlighting the Philippines’ rich heritage, culture, and history, especially through its textiles,” he explained to the Daily Tribune when we recently visited him at his Manila Peninsula showroom where he receives his clients, mostly prominent ladies of the country's social, political and economic firmaments. [caption id="attachment_168345" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Michael with Daily Tribune Social Set editor Jojo G. Silvestre[/caption] For this event, he traveled to Davao, Sultan Kudarat, Cebu, Albay, and Sorsogon to document the lives of the weavers and craftsmen. Tonight’s audience can thus expect a delightful and informative visual spectacle as one of the highlights of the show, which, weather hopefully permitting, will be held in the front garden of the heritage mansion. With Roby Carmona directing, as he had done in initial Goldenberg presentations, the show will surely be another excellent tribute to Filipino talent and craftsmanship, which the First Lady has been promoting through her many cultural heritage development projects. The powerhouse audience can look forward to witnessing Michael’s muses show off his creations, among them, senatorial wives, mayors, legislators, businesswomen, and outstanding personalities in various spheres of Philippine society. The list, a veritable who’s who includes senatorial wives Audrey Zubiri, Tootsy Angara, Kath Pimentel and Gladys Villanueva; Senator Nancy Binay; and Mayors Lani Revilla, Honey Lacuna, Imelda Calixto, Wes Gatchalian, and Dale Malapitan. Of his clients who are modeling his designs, Michael claims, “I am fortunate it is not difficult to design for them. It’s always a pleasure for me to dress them up. I believe it is because of the trust they give me, and I am grateful to them. This much-awaited event marks the latest milestone in Michael’s 10-year old career, which has seen him present his creations in various parts of the world including Los Angeles, Dubai, and Moscow, while just as busily dressing up the country’s movers and achievers. (He is off to the Paris fashion week soon.) The recent State of the Nation Address red carpet might have been his show, having been responsible for the outfits of some 100 legislators and their ladies, among them, Senator Grace Poe, Senator Nancy Binay and family, Senator Allan Cayetano, Senator Koko Pimentel and his wife Kath, Senator Raffy Tulfo and Congresswoman Jocelyn Tulfo, and easily the day’s most photographed lady, actress and fashion icon Heart Evangelista. A first for the National Museum When Michael Leyva celebrated his tenth anniversary in the world of fashion as a designer, he presented a show at the National Museum, a first in the history of the venerable institution, the foremost repository of the nation’s cultural treasures. While he was celebrating a milestone, the "momentous event, to me, was also my way of commemorating the memory of my brother, Brian, my childhood roommate and playmate, who has remained to be my angel, my guide, my mentor and my teacher all throughout. "He’s always been my inspiration in everything that I do. I know he’s there, he’s always part of it. He’s always beside me. Front, back, and side by side." Michael was first enamored with the cavernous halls of the National Museum when he did a shoot in 2018. " I told myself that this is where I will celebrate my 10th year. If it wasn't going to be here, I would rather not celebrate na lang. I wanted to be the first to showcase my creations in this historically significant building." Earlier, restriction pertaining to Covid were lifted, paving the way for the October 10, 2022 spectacle. "I presented a 55-piece collection,” he proudly shared. His muses, Anne Curtis, Vice Ganda, Pia Wurtzbach, led the list of models. Regine Velasquez sang at the finale. Eric Santos performed as well. He was elated that Inno Sotto, the foremost designer of his generation and the leading heir to the masters of the postwar era, had given his imprimatur through his presence. "I felt that his coming to my milestone show proves that I had already made it." A different look for the First Lady But to Michael, the biggest honor and affirmation came from the First Lady of the Philippines, Liza Araneta Marcos. "I missed meeting her when a number of us designers were invited to Malacanang to discuss her Likha project. I happened to be in Paris for a wedding. But I really wanted to meet her." [caption id="attachment_168346" align="aligncenter" width="525"] First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos and designer Michael Leyva viewing a fashion exhibit.[/caption] Finally, in September 2022, he was introduced to the First Lady in her Presidential Management Staff office. He invited her to his National Museum show, and she came. She wore a Michael Leyva Filipiniana, his first-ever creation for her. In time, they would develop a friendly collaboration based on trust and respect, anchored on her admiration for his talent. The next few months saw him designing many of her outfits worn on special occasions. Just recently, she wore her Michael Leyva outfits in Cebu and in the presidential visits to Kualalmpur, Malaysia, and Bangkok, Thailand. For the First Lady’s get-ups, which he posted on his FB wall, he received a lot of praises, mostly commenting on how he had been able to zero in on what would look best on the First Lady. [caption id="attachment_168349" align="aligncenter" width="525"] The First Lady in a Michael Leyva creation at the Audrey Hepburn exhibit, with Tessie Sy Coson and SM officials.[/caption] From day one, he has wanted a different look on her. “Being a designer, I had to explore possibilities. What was basic in my mind was I wanted her to look differently, and that people would notice once she wore my first dress. I wanted them to say, “she had changed in her fashion and grooming preferences.” And Michael did achieve his intention. [caption id="attachment_168351" align="aligncenter" width="525"] President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and FL Liza Araneta Marcos, in a Michael Leyva modern terno, with the King and Queen of Thailand[/caption] [caption id="attachment_168352" align="aligncenter" width="525"] President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and First Lady Liza Marcos Araneta during the president's state visit to Malaysia. The First Lady is in a Michael Leyva creation.[/caption] When people found out he had been responsible for the First Lady’s new look, they told him, “No wonder she now looks different.” An obvious change was in the length of her dresses, which originally was above the knee. “I felt that it would be more becoming for her to wear below-the-knee dresses,” he pointed out. The First Lady, he said, “wants comfortability. She doesn’t like corsets. And then, as much as possible, she wants to make use of Philippine textiles that we have here like calado, piña, and abel. She is the number one promoter of Philippine textile.” Of course, the First Lady will be his guest of honor in tonight’s fashion show, once again proving Michael’s eminence and popularity in his field, and the First Lady’s commitment to the uplift of weavers and embroiders of this beautiful country, the Philippines. The post Michael Leyva to showcase the best of Philippine textiles at Goldenberg Mansion appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Requiring personal E-visa appearances urged
Senator Nancy Binay on Tuesday urged the Department of Foreign Affairs to make “personal appearances at consular offices” as a “non-negotiable requirement” for some categories applying for electronic-visa or e-visa to ensure national security is still in place. Binay welcomed the pilot implementation of the country’s first-ever e-visa services on 24 August but stressed that DFA and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency should come up with “better security policies” to prevent possible non-technical loopholes. She added the authorities should ensure that the “probability” of organized syndicates exploiting tour groups and junkets will be lessened, including human trafficking. “We welcome the implementation of e-visas not only to positively boost tourism but also as our commitment to facilitate ease of travel. In the same vein, we urge the DFA and NICA to refine national security policies to deter undesirable travelers from extra-legally bypassing immigration laws,” Binay said. The senator likewise urged the DoF and NICA to review the existing exemption system to avoid any misuse and abuse by some foreign nationals of the Philippine e-visa. Binay cited the country’s digital version of the standard visa allows foreign travelers to enter a certain country for a specific period or purpose. In lieu of physical holographic stamps or stickers on the passport, applicants instead receive an e-visa approval code — which is linked to the passports. The post Requiring personal E-visa appearances urged appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»