MANILA – Visiting United States Senator Tammy Duckworth has urged manufacturers of electric vehicle components to consider putting up their supply chain in the Philippines, with outputs to be exported to the US.
Duckworth told reporters here Tuesday that the Philippines is a viable location for the e-vehicle manufacturing ecosystem because of its natural resources and for being a long-time ally of the US.
She particularly encouraged e-vehicle battery manufacturers from Japan, South Korea and Taiwan that are exporting to the US market to expand their businesses “in a friendly nation” and “a long-time ally like the Philippines,” as this would be a “win-win-win situation for all three nations.”
The US last year passed the Inflation Reduction Act, banning e-vehicle batteries with components made in China.
“Many opportunities to partner, along with other nations like Japan, Korea and Taiwan in manufacturing that would leverage the resources in the Philippines both human and natural resources. But also to manufacture for the US market to help solve one of the biggest problems that we have in our economy, which is a broken manufacturing supply chain,” she added.
The US lawmaker said one of her agenda in visiting the region is to look into possible cooperation with the Philippines to fix the US manufacturing supply chain issue on e-vehicles.
“What an interesting idea to partner with companies and basically create new manufacturing ecosystems outside of the PRC (People’s Republic of China) because for so long, everything is manufactured in the PRC. And so, when I look at where do we want to create the ecosystems, I can’t think of a better place than the Philippines because you’ve been our longest ally and national security partner,” Duckworth said.
She added that aside from building on the military and economic ties between the two governments, the Philippines is also in a “strong solid foundation” to host these manufacturing activities that would benefit both the US and the Philippine markets.
The US senator arrived in Manila on Sunday and met with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga and Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla, as well as Illinois-based companies operating in the Philippines. (PNA)
COTABATO CITY – Investments in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have ballooned to PHP3.1 billion for the past seven months, the Bangsamoro Board of Investments (BBOI) announced Wednesday.
“The BBOI recognizes the positive impact that such initiatives have on the socio-economic landscape, enhancing the quality of life for the people of the region,” BBOI Chairperson Mohammad Pasigan said in a statement.
Pasigan said the achievement improved the region’s investment target for this year, which had been broken since the first half of 2023.
“BARMM’s investment target this year is PHP2.5 billion only but as of August 2, the total investment has reached PHP3.1 billion,” Pasigan said.
On Aug. 2, he said the BBOI approved the latest local investment from the Illana Bay Beach Resort, a tourist spot wholly-owned by local traders.
The holiday resort in Barangay Badak, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao Norte has a capital of PHP340.3 million.
Given the substantial project cost, Pasigan said the significant investment venture serves as a testament to the strong commitment of both the private and government sectors in driving progress and prosperity within the region.
He said BBOI remains dedicated to facilitating a conducive environment for investments and partnerships in pursuance of BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim’s 12-Point Priority, which is to “encourage investment and maximize BARMM’s revenue potentials.”
Liezlda Ansing, the resort supervisor, thanked the BBOI and considered it the first step to registering further for tourism accreditation.
“We need to register and promote our competitive local tourism spot in our locality to influence even outside residents to visit us and enjoy the great ambiance of our very own resort,” Ansing said.
“Aside from benefits of promotion upon registration in the BBOI, we will also enjoy various incentives including the 6-year annual incentives of free taxes,” she added.
To date, the resort is employing 69 local workers from the community, which will contribute significantly to reducing unemployment rates and uplifting the livelihoods of individuals and families in the area, she said.
Meanwhile, the BBOI Board of Governor Datu Habib Ambolodto has expressed confidence that the Illana Bay Resort will contribute much to the region’s economic growth.
“The project will further catalyze investments, development, and cooperation in the region,” Ambolodto said.
In June this year, the BBOI reported that some PHP962.9 million worth of investments have been gained for three business ventures that made them surpass their PHP2.5 billion investment for this year by some PHP200 million. (PNA)
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Agriculture (DA) confirmed on Wednesday an outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) in Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte.
Laboratory results show that 30 hogs in Tangkaan village in Padre Burgos town tested positive for ASF.
Sick animals manifested clinical signs of the highly contagious disease, said DA Eastern Visayas regional ASF coordinator Vencie Pantonino.
“Aside from those hogs tested, there are also 30 reported swine mortalities due to ASF since the last week of June 2023,” Pantonino said in a phone interview.
Citing the initial investigation result, the official disclosed that possible transmission of the virus resulted from the transport of infected live hogs from neighboring municipalities that still have ASF active cases, swill feeding, and poor biosecurity.
“We assure the public that a technical team has been deployed upon the confirmation of said cases and continues to conduct proper preventive measures against the spread of the virus. The DA is closely monitoring the area and its neighboring communities for possible transmission,” Pantolino added.
Since 2021, Eastern Visayas has recorded 13,366 ASF cases, many of which were depopulated by authorities.
The first ASF case was detected on Jan. 14, 2021, in Can-aporong village in Abuyog, Leyte. The town became ASF-free after 10 months.
The DA encourages the public, particularly those in the affected zones, to observe protocols, and to avoid transport of hogs to-and-from the infected area.
Everyone is urged to coordinate with their respective municipal agriculture office and immediately report any unusual animal mortalities or manifestation of symptoms of the disease.
Among the precautionary measures highly recommended by DA are disinfecting the vehicles used to transport the hogs and all the equipment; regularly checking of hogs by an expert to ensure their health; maintaining the sanitation of the surroundings; avoiding swill feeding; and proper disposal of manures of the infected hogs. (PNA)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is seeking a review of the possible partnership between the Philippines and the United States to strengthen the nursing industry of both countries, Malacañang said Wednesday.
In a statement, Communication Secretary Cheloy Garafil said Marcos is open to the idea of forging an agreement with the US to elevate the nursing profession and address the problems besetting the sector.
“Let’s look into it… I’m sure if we figure out the details, that probably… sounds like a good idea,” Marcos said, as quoted by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
This developed after US Senator Tammy Duckworth, who paid Marcos a courtesy visit at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday, raised the possibility of sending American students to nursing schools in the Philippines.
Marcos said he wants to study the proposal before making any decision.
“We do have a problem with our nurses leaving and going abroad and finding good jobs abroad. And we certainly encourage that. We’re not about to hold them back,” Marcos said during his meeting with Duckworth.
“But we need to find these new schemes so that the brain drain is not quite severe as it is now. We have a shortage, I think, at every level in our health care system and much of the reason behind that is the talent leaving the Philippines to find better positions. But certainly, we should examine that.”
While there is no formal agreement yet, Marcos and Duckworth agreed that the proposal would benefit the two countries.
Duckworth noted that Filipino nurses could pass the licensure examinations for nursing in the US.
She also acknowledged that the US has a lack of nursing programs, adding that the country has more nursing students than nursing educators.
“You know, it would be really interesting to see if we could send American students to nursing schools in the Philippines because, obviously, you’re teaching to a standard that they can meet licensure in the US. But we don’t have enough nursing programs in the United States,” Duckworth said.
“We don’t have enough nursing educators in the United States because we just don’t have enough of them, and we have students who want to enter nursing schools but there are not enough space for them.” (PNA)
MANILA – The combined amount of damage to agriculture and infrastructure caused by Typhoons Egay and Falcon and the southwest monsoon (habagat) has reached more than PHP10 billion.
In its bulletin on Wednesday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) estimated the damage to agriculture and infrastructure at PHP4.45 billion and PHP5.81 billion, respectively.
It said the recent weather disturbances also affected a total of 1,224,219 families or 4,555,227 persons residing in 5,334 barangays in the Ilocos region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Davao region, Soccsksargen, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Cordillera region, and National Capital Region.
The NDRRMC also said 7,237 families or 25,702 individuals are still in 352 evacuation centers while 21,043 families or 80,908 persons are receiving aid outside evacuation centers.
The Office of Civil Defense said the affected families are a combination of those displaced and those not needing removal from their residence but whose livelihoods have been affected.
The death toll stood at 30, four of whom have been confirmed.
About 171 persons were reported injured, 152 of whom have been validated.
Meanwhile, reports of 10 missing persons are still undergoing validation. (PNA)
MANILA – The United States (US) – Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Business Council, the largest American business contingent, pledged to pursue more investments in the Philippines.
The commitment was made when the members of the US-ASEAN Business Council paid a courtesy call to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the President’s Hall of Malacañan Palace in Manila on Wednesday.
During the meeting, US-ASEAN Business Council president and chief executive officer Ted Osius said the members of the non-profit organization are looking forward to deepening their engagements with the Marcos administration and creating more partnerships with the Philippine businesses.
“We’re very much focused and you highlight these themes on sustainable development, transformative digitalization, innovative healthcare solutions, supply chain resilience, and ease of doing business,” Osius told Marcos.
“We are determined that we come here not just to talk but also to bring a lot of action to create real partnerships and to show our commitment in the form of investments,” he added.
Osius, a retired US ambassador, was joined by representatives of 30 companies, the largest delegation to visit the Philippines in the 40-year history of US-ASEAN Business Council.
He said the number of the delegation visiting the Philippines signifies the organization members’ interest in the country’s strong growth and stable macroeconomic fundamentals; the young and competent Filipino workforce; and the Marcos administration’s receptiveness to foreign investments and sustainable approach to sustain economic development.
Citing Marcos’ commitment to put a premium on industries such as infrastructure, agriculture, clean energy, green metals and semiconductors, Osius said American companies have expressed readiness to back the Philippine development efforts.
Marcos acknowledged the council’s crucial role in the Philippine development and hoped that alliances, partnerships, and arrangements with its members would be sustained.
He said the meeting with the US-ASEAN Business Council is significant in discussing concrete steps in upholding socioeconomic cooperation, including the sectors of agriculture, clean energy, infrastructure, climate change, digital connectivity and post pandemic recovery.
“I recognize the critical role that the United States and American businesses have played in advancing a robust and inclusive economic growth in the Philippines, not only in this period but for a very long time now,” Marcos said.
Marcos also assured the council of concrete steps that he and US President Joe Biden have identified to make the two countries’ alliance and partnership “relevant and responsive to the current emerging challenges in the defense, security and economic spheres.”
“I invite the members of the esteemed Council to continue being valuable partners of the Philippines. Let us push for greater economic engagement between our two countries, for our mutual benefit, for the prosperity, especially of the region,” he said.
Osius also stressed the importance of the country’s participation in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, as well as in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).
“The view in Washington is that the Philippines has been an incredible partner in this process, especially the supply chain. [The] Indo-Pacific Economic Framework and the US is looking for continued Philippine leadership on Pillar 3 which is focused on clean energy, decarbonization, and infrastructure, and Pillar 4, tax and any corruption,” Osius said, adding US companies welcome a transparent predictable business environment in the context of Pillar 4.
The US-ASEAN Business Council is a non-profit organization established in 1984 that conducts research and analysis in the ASEAN member states in terms of economic, financial, political, social and environmental conditions.
Worldwide, the council’s membership of over 175 companies generates almost USD7 trillion in revenue and employs more than 14.5 million people.
The council is the only American organization formally recognized in the ASEAN Charter and meets annually with the Finance, Trade, and Energy Ministers at their annual meetings.
To date, its members include the largest US companies conducting business in ASEAN and range from newcomers to the region to firms that have been working in Southeast Asia for more than 100 years. (PNA)
MANILA – National Security Council (NSC) Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya on Wednesday said they are still puzzled by the claims made by China that the Philippines has agreed to remove its ship, the BRP Sierra Madre (LST-57), from the Ayungin Shoal.
In a Laging Handa briefing, Malaya said everyone they have talked with regarding the matter — from the present to past administrations — has no idea of this claim of the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson last Aug. 7.
“Wala pong ganun ano, wala pong meeting, wala pong kasulatan na nilagdaan ng dalawang bansa na meron tayong ganung usapan (There is no such commitment, there is no meeting, no treaty or agreement signed by the two countries regarding such talks),” he added.
Malaya also said it is China’s duty to show proof or evidence of this claim.
He added that if Beijing will continue to assert this claim, it should identify the person or persons who promised them such.
Malaya also admitted that it is hard to comment on matters that have no basis.
“If China firmly believes na merong ganung kasunduan o pangako e sabihin nila kung sino nangako kasi baka naman ang nangako sa kanila ay hindi naman opisyal ng pamahalaan diba because I can categorically say to the public and to everyone na wala pong administrasyion na nangakong tatangalin yan because yan naman pong BRP Sierra Madre ay simbulo ng atin sovereign rights and jurisdiction over Ayungin Shoal (If China believes that there is such an agreement or promise, then they should identify the ones who promised them such. Maybe the one who gave them such a promise is not an official of the government because I can categorically say to the public and to everyone that no administration will agree to that because BRP Sierra Madre is the symbol of our sovereign rights and jurisdiction over Ayungin Shoal),” he added.
He said the BRP Sierra Madre was deployed and stationed in Ayungin Shoal in 1999 to show China that the Philippines has control over it. (PNA)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday emphasized the importance of government support and assistance to all Filipino athletes to keep them motivated and help them excel in their future sports competitions.
During the ceremonial awarding of incentives to Filipino medalists in the 32nd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games and the 12th ASEAN Para Games, Marcos heaped praises on the athletes for their achievements despite the challenges they are currently facing.
Marcos said he was “a little embarrassed” to admit that the government failed to extend full support to the Filipino athletes, their coaches and trainers, and all the support groups.
“Considering the honor and the pride that you bring to the Philippines, it seems that it is not commensurate with the great service that you do to our country and to our people,” he said in a speech delivered at Malacañan Palace in Manila.
“Lagi nating sinasabi pinagmamalaki namin kayo. Totoo naman. Pinagmamalaki namin kayo. Dapat naman susuklian naman namin ang inyong ginawang sakripisyo, ang inyong dinalang dangal para sa ating mahal na Pilipinas. Kaya asahan ninyong sa administrasyon na ito, gagawin natin ang lahat para masuportahan natin at ipalabas natin ang kagalingan, ang husay ng ating atleta (We always say we are proud of you. It’s true. We are proud of you. We must reciprocate the sacrifice you made, the honor you brought for our beloved Philippines. So, expect that under this administration, we will do everything to support and bring out the excellence, the skill of our athlete),” he added.
Marcos said the Filipino athletes have proved that limitations in training are not a hindrance to showcasing their talents in international sports competitions.
Although they have limited resources, athletes continue to bring pride and honor to the country, Marcos said.
“Today, we are fortunate to welcome the latest in a long list of triumphant heroes in Philippine sports. Athletes from the Philippines have surpassed the competition and brought out the best version of themselves, becoming examples of supportive prowess for our nation and the rest of the world,” he said.
“But I think the most important thing that you demonstrated as you competed in these tournaments, in these games was to show the strength of the Filipino spirit, the grace of the Filipino character, and the passion of the Filipino heart. And that is what comes out with the results, with what you have been able to do.”
Marcos said his dream is to set a “higher standard” for Philippine sports to bring out the true talent of Filipino athletes.
Over 900 athletes competed in the SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia in May and June this year.
Represented by 840 athletes, the Philippines placed fifth in the overall medal tally for the 32nd SEA Games held in Cambodia in May. The country amassed 58 gold, 85 silver and 117 bronze medals.
The Philippines also ranked fifth overall in the 12th ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia in June, collecting 34 gold, 33 silver, and 50 bronze medals. (PNA)
MANILA – Senator Risa Hontiveros supports the suspension order of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on the reclamation projects in Manila Bay as she reiterates her call to reject all China-funded reclamation projects in the country.
President Marcos on Monday announced in Bulacan that he ordered the suspension of all reclamation projects in Manila Bay except for one pending review.
The President’s order came after massive floods hit several Bulacan towns in the past weeks.
Marcos did not specify which projects are suspended, but said that the sea along Roxas Boulevard could disappear due to the reclamation projects.
“I welcome PBBM’s suspension of reclamation projects in Manila Bay. There are questionable entities involved in those projects, particularly the China state-owned China Communications Construction Co. (CCCC), which has historically destroyed our marine ecosystems in the West Philippine Sea. Dapat hindi na tayo nakikipagsapalaran sa mga kumpanya tulad ng CCCC (We should not be taking risks with companies like CCCC),” Hontiveros said in a statement on Wednesday.
Last year, Hontiveros filed Proposed Senate Resolution 300 to conduct an inquiry into the reported large-scale land reclamation projects being undertaken on a nationwide scale in the Philippines, including the projects in Manila Bay.
In calling for the rejection of Chinese-funded reclamation projects in the country, the senator said two of the six initially approved reclamation projects in Manila Bay are executed by China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd., a subsidiary of China state-owned CCCC.
In the resolution, Hontiveros cited scientist Dr. Giovanni Tapang who said the reclamation of more than 38,000 hectares, of which 26,232 hectares are along the coast of Manila Bay covered by the National Reclamation Plan will translate to a loss of the same area of seagrass, the spawning ground and habitat of aquatic life, leading to an annual loss of 4-7 billion invertebrates and 3-78 trillion fish.
“These China-funded reclamation projects may cause irreversible damage to our cherished natural resources. Ang likas-yaman na nga lang ng Pilipinas ang napanghahawakang yaman ng mga Pilipino, kaya dapat matindi ang ginagawa nating pagdedepensa dito (Our natural resources is our only wealth and we must protect this at all costs),” Hontiveros said.
She also called on the ban of CCCC as a response to the repeated provocations of China in the West Philippine Sea, including the recent firing of a water cannon by the Chinese Coast Guard at the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) last Saturday, blocking the resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal.
After the indignation expressed by the Department of Foreign Affairs, the PCG, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines against the use of water cannons, China, instead of issuing an apology, asserted its baseless claims and demanded that the Philippines remove BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.
“BRP Sierra Madre is a Philippine asset that we have all the right to maintain in Ayungin Shoal. We will never allow anyone to forcibly take that vessel out of our own waters. We must draw up other diplomatic and political ways to stand our ground, including stopping China-funded projects on our shores,” Hontiveros said. (PNA)
MANILA – The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) targets 75 higher education institutions (HEIs) to reach the global university rankings next year.
“I am projecting by next year, the 52 (HEIs) will easily reach 75, that is the target we are setting. Seventy five universities who have decided that they want to be compared, that is usually the most difficult decision to make,” CHED chairperson J. Prospero de Vera III said during the 6th commencement exercises of the World Citi Colleges (WCC) Aeronautical and Technological College-North Manila on Wednesday.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. lauded the 52 HEIs which were included in this year’s rank of World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), Quacquarelli Symonds (QS World, Asia, and Stars), and Times Higher Education (THE World, Asia, and Impact Rankings) during his second State of the Nation Address (SONA).
De Vera said this figure showed the “dramatic” progress of HEIs, with only 15 of them ranked last 2022.
However, de Vera said joining the world rankings is not for everyone.
“You must be able to identify the good things that you’re doing and prepare the documents to show that you’re doing it. Have yourselves evaluated versus other universities. And once the ranking comes out, look at those who are higher than you and say what are they doing that I should do or do better? It is a difficult process, and it is not for everyone,” he said.
De Vera then lauded the WCC’s performance for the year being among the 52 globally-ranked HEIs.
“For WCC to do it is a testament to the quality of education it is ready to give its graduate,” he said.
De Vera cited its internationalization efforts which provide aviation graduates with many skills and opportunities considering credentials and training garnered not only in the country but also abroad.
Last June 27, the CHED witnessed the memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing between the WCC, Philippine State College of Aeronautics (PhilSCA) and the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) during the British Columbia Council International Education Week 2023 Conference in Victoria, BC, Canada.
The partnership is expected to bring opportunities for study and training between the Philippines and Canada for aspiring aircraft maintenance specialists and avionics technicians.
With all these efforts and plans being laid, de Vera assured that the national government is keen to increase support in the higher education sector.
“The present administration of President Bongbong Marcos has committed to continue this legacy of providing quality education and promoting the internationalization of Philippine education,” he said. (PNA)
Many areas in Bulacan province, like the featured image, went underwater courtesy of super typhoon Egay that battered north Luzon recently. (Photo by Benjie Cuaresma)
It’s not too late to solve Bulacan’s perennial problem with flooding, and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) president and CEO Ramon S. Ang has a solution: an extensive cleanup of polluted river systems and waterways in and around the province, which he vowed SMC itself would implement using its own resources at no cost to the government and the people of Bulacan.
Ang made this commitment to Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga in a recent meeting, where he presented the status of SMC’s massive river cleanup initiatives including the Pasig River, Tullahan River, and the San Juan River.
The company has already spent some P3 billion to desilt and remove solid wastes from the polluted waterways. Ang also outlined plans to fully shift its river rehabilitation efforts to Bulacan in the coming months.
SMC, which has multiple investments in Bulacan —including the MRT-7 project, the Bulacan Bulk Water Supply facility, and the biggest development in the country to date, the P740-billion New Manila International Airport —has, in recent years, been a prime mover and advocate for cleaning up major river systems in Metro Manila.
Shifting river rehab efforts to Bulacan
“Our Pasig River cleanup is almost complete. After about two years, we are nearing our target of 1.4 million tons of silt and waste removed. We have also started desilting and waste extraction activities at the Meycauayan River and Maycapiz/Taliptip River. This is part of our plan to clean up rivers in the Bulakan-Obando-Meycauayan-Marilao-Bocaue-Guiguinto River System, which is critical to addressing flooding throughout the southern part of Bulacan,” Ang said.
SMC’s flood mitigation program for Bulacan initially covered rivers surrounding the future site of the New Manila International Airport. However, upon the request of local government units of Bulacan, SMC expanded the program to other tributaries outside of the MMORS.
“It’s very unfortunate every time there is a typhoon, so many people in Bulacan have to suffer. Flooding has been a problem in the province ever since. With the growth in population, the emergence of settlements and developments, and no extensive and sustained effort to clean up the rivers, the situation has only gotten worse,” Ang said.
“But I am confident that with this project to extensively clean up our rivers and with the support of our provincial and local governments and the DENR, we can significantly increase the carrying capacity of our rivers and help solve flooding once and for all,” he added.
Airport project not the cause of flooding
Ang also addressed allegations by some that the airport project is the cause of flooding in the province, pointing out that flooding had already been a major problem, long before the government approved the airport’s construction in the province, just north of Metro Manila.
“There are many contributing factors to flooding. Bulacan has many low-lying areas. Another is land subsidence caused by over-extraction and the depletion of groundwater. In fact, that is one of the reasons why we invested in putting up the Bulacan Bulk Water System Project some years back —to provide potable water to residents without having to resort to unsustainable use of groundwater,” Ang explained.
He added: “Degradation, siltation, and pollution of our rivers are course of major causes of flooding. Because of these, rivers become shallow and their flood-carrying capacity is severely diminished, resulting in river overflow and floods. The proliferation of fish ponds in coastal areas has also contributed to severe flooding in the province”.
SMC has already started cleaning up rivers around the airport project site as part of the overall design and long-term maintenance of the country’s largest international gateway.
These flood mitigation efforts are seen to also benefit towns near the airport.
“We are deeply invested in the future as well as the well-being of Bulacan and its residents. We would not pour in billions in resources if we didn’t consider all possible risks, including flooding in the province. As with any major undertaking of this magnitude, extensive studies were done even before construction started. And even now, we continue to work with experts and to consistently ensure we adhere to the highest environmental and social standards and regulations,” Ang said.
Heavily-silted Pampanga river brought floods to Calumpit, other towns
Ang also pointed out that heavily-flooded areas during the last typhoon, particularly Calumpit, and Hagonoy, located far from the airport project, were affected by overflow from the heavily-silted Pampanga River aggravated by the release of water from some dams.
SMC is already looking to extend its river desilting and cleanup initiative beyond Bulacan’s rivers, to other critical tributaries throughout Central Luzon.
“With our experience in cleaning up Tullahan and Pasig Rivers, the modern equipment we have invested in over the years, and the technical know-how of our personnel, I think we are more than ready to take on the challenge of expanding the efforts to the rest of Bulacan and also Pampanga,” Ang added.
Since 2020, the company has been undertaking major river cleanup programs at no cost to the government, to help mitigate flooding in and around Metro Manila,
Apart from its ongoing cleanup of the Pasig River, last year, SMC completed its P1-billion Tullahan River cleanup project. It extracted more than 1.12 million metric tons of silt and solid wastes from the river.
Currently, Ang said SMC has cleaned up some 4.45 kilometers out of an initial 13-kilometer target along the Taliptip/Maycapiz River and the Meycauayan River. A total of 543,266 metric tons of silt and solid waste have now been removed.
Meycauayan River, one of the tributaries in the Marilao-Meycauayan-Obando River System (MMORS), has been named as one of the world’s top 10 tributaries that emit the highest share of plastics to the oceans.
Others on the list are the Pasig River, Tullahan River, Pampanga River, Libmanan River, Rio Grande de Mindanao, and Agno River. (ai/mnm)
In June, the unemployment rate inched up to 4.5%, as reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Wednesday.
After a three-month decline, the June rate surpassed the previous month’s 4.3%, yet remained lower than the 6.0% recorded in June 2022.
This translates to a total of 2.33 million unemployed individuals in the Philippines, marking an increase of 159,000 compared to May’s count of 2.17 million. Nonetheless, this represents a decrease from last year’s June figure of 2.99 million, indicating a year-on-year reduction of 663,000 jobless individuals.
Simultaneously, underemployment, which includes those actively seeking additional work or secondary employment, rose to 12.0%, slightly up from May’s 11.7%, but marginally below June 2022’s underemployment rate of 12.6%.
The underemployed population corresponds to approximately 5.87 million individuals “who express the desire for more working hours in their current job, additional job opportunities, or a new employment role with extended work hours.” (ai/mnm)
LOS ANGELES — Rapper Tory Lanez has been handed a 10-year prison term on Tuesday after being found guilty of shooting and injuring hip-hop sensation Megan Thee Stallion in her feet. This marks the conclusion of a three-year legal and cultural saga that plunged two careers and lives into turmoil.
Judge David Herriford of the Los Angeles Superior Court delivered the sentence to 31-year-old Lanez, who was convicted in December on three felony counts: assault with a semiautomatic firearm, possession of a loaded and unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and reckless discharge of a firearm.
Starting from the initial incident in July 2020 in the Hollywood Hills to the extended two-day sentencing hearing, the case ignited a firestorm within the hip-hop community. It stirred up crucial discussions about topics such as the reluctance of Black victims to engage with law enforcement, gender dynamics in hip-hop, online toxicity, the protection of Black women, and the impacts of misogynoir—a specific form of misogyny experienced by Black women.
Herriford expressed the challenge of reconciling the image portrayed by Lanez’s friends and family during the hearing—a depiction of a kind, charitable individual and a devoted father to a 6-year-old son—with the person who pulled the trigger on Megan.
“Sometimes even good individuals make regrettable choices,” Herriford remarked. “Actions bear consequences, and there are no victors in this case.”
During the trial, Megan testified that Lanez had fired the gun at the back of her feet, demanding that she dance as she attempted to distance herself from an SUV they had been traveling in. This followed their departure from a pool party hosted at Kylie Jenner’s residence. Megan underwent surgery to extract bullet fragments and only disclosed the identity of the shooter months later.
“Ever since the defendant’s vicious act of shooting me, I haven’t known a single day of peace,” Megan conveyed in a statement read by a prosecutor in court on Monday. “I am gradually healing and recovering, but I will never be the same.” (Sourced online/ai/mnm)
Manila Electric Company, a prominent power distributor, has revealed that for the second consecutive month, customers can anticipate a reduction in their electric bills. Joe Zaldarriaga, the spokesperson for Meralco, shared that following the decline in July 2023, an additional reduction of P0.2908 per kWh in electricity rates is set to take effect this August.
This adjustment results in a lowered overall rate of P10.8991 per kWh for an average household, compared to the previous rate of P11.1899 per kWh. Zaldarriaga went on to explain that residential customers who consume around 200 kWh can expect their electricity bill to decrease by approximately P58.
With this latest modification, the cumulative reduction over the past two months now totals P1.0121 per kWh. (AI/MNM)
MANILA — Broadcaster and ACT-CIS Rep. Erwin Tulfo has emerged as the frontrunner among potential senatorial candidates, as indicated by a recent survey conducted by OCTA Research.
The survey’s top 12 list predominantly features incumbent senators seeking reelection.
The Tugon ng Masa survey, conducted from July 22 to 26, showcases Tulfo securing the lead with an impressive 73 percent preference rate.
Following closely are Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, commanding a 55 percent preference, and former Sen. Vicente “Tito” Sotto 3rd, with a notable 49 percent.
Occupying the fourth to sixth positions are Senators Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, Maria Josefa Imelda “Imee” Marcos, and former senator Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao.
Completing the top 12 roster are current Senators Pilar Juliana “Pia” Cayetano, Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., former Manila mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, Sen. Manuel “Lito” Lapid, former senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, and Sen. Francis Tolentino.
Additionally, broadcaster and former vice president Manuel “Noli” De Castro Jr, Dr. Willie Ong, entertainer Wilfredo “Willie” Revillame, former senator Gregorio Honasan, former vice president Maria Leonor Robredo, and former senator Francis Pangilinan secure the 13th to 18th spots in the survey.
Conducted with a sample size of 1,200 respondents, comprising 300 participants from the National Capital Region, Balance Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao each, the survey maintains a margin of error of plus or minus three percent. (AI/MNM)
Infographic courtesy of The Washington Post
Is Facebook accountable for the incessant wave of account hacks that have become increasingly systematic and pervasive, occurring daily across the country for fraudulent and criminal purposes?
This is the overarching inquiry confronting countless Facebook account holders who have fallen victim to the escalating instances of hacking on both Facebook and its affiliated social media platform, Messenger.
According to those who have endured the harrowing experience of cyber fraud, they often find themselves locked out of their own Facebook accounts for days or even weeks, sometimes indefinitely.
The disheartening and embarrassing reality is that unbeknownst to them, malicious actors have seized control of their Facebook profiles and are actively soliciting financial assistance under the guise of “ayuda” or other forms of support from friends and family listed in the victim’s contacts.
The methods employed by these perpetrators vary, but they commonly begin with a seemingly innocuous message.
Even a former high-ranking official who served under President Joseph Estrada fell prey to the cunning tactics of hackers. Unbeknownst to him, his Messenger platform was sending out messages soliciting funds for an upcoming religious event.
Days later, his wife took to social media to notify friends and relatives of the account hack, clarifying that no such “religious event” was occurring or endorsed by their community.
Recently, a housewife received a message from a relative residing in the National Capital Region. The message simply read, “How are you?” Suspicion arose due to the fact that this relative typically addressed her by name in their correspondence.
Days later, the relative confirmed that her Facebook account had indeed been compromised.
These incidents are just a few instances of genuine Facebook account hacks, prompting concerned citizens to question the level of accountability Facebook should bear.
The issue of Facebook account hacks is a multifaceted and contentious topic.
We checked online and several key considerations come into play:
- User Responsibility: Users have a responsibility to maintain strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and adopt other security measures to safeguard their accounts. Neglecting these precautions might imply shared responsibility for the hacks.
- Company Security Measures: As with any tech company, Facebook must implement robust security measures to protect user data. In the event that Facebook’s security practices are deemed inadequate or negligent, a case for accountability could arise.
- Legal Obligations: Data protection and cybersecurity laws vary by jurisdiction. Failure to adhere to these laws could result in legal consequences for security breaches.
- Industry Standards: Facebook’s accountability may be assessed based on cybersecurity industry standards. Falling short of these benchmarks could raise questions about their level of responsibility.
- Mitigation Efforts: Swift and effective action by Facebook to mitigate the impact of a hack could influence perceptions of their accountability. Timely notifications, support for affected users, and preventative measures against future breaches can shape public opinion.
- Transparency and Communication: How transparent and communicative Facebook is regarding a breach can impact perceptions of accountability. Candid disclosure about the breach, its causes, and steps being taken to prevent future incidents can influence public sentiment.
- Preventive Measures: Holding a company accountable entails more than assigning blame post-incident. It involves advocating for enhanced preventive measures, security audits, and ongoing efforts to bolster cybersecurity.
- Legal Challenges: Determining legal liability is intricate, involving considerations of negligence, breach of contract, and more. Legal proceedings may play a pivotal role in determining accountability.
In reality, the matter is rarely straightforward. Holding Facebook accountable for account hacks hinges on a combination of user behavior, corporate practices, legal factors, and prevailing industry standards.
Finally, users must take personal ownership of their security while simultaneously advocating for improved cybersecurity practices. (ai/mnm)
Lloyd Austin III (Photo courtesy of the LA Times)
MANILA — United States Defense Chief Llyod Austin III accordingly contacted his PH counterpart Gilbert Teodoro to reaffirm the unwavering alliance between the United States and the Philippines amid the escalating tension between China and the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea.
He strongly condemned the actions of the China Coast Guard in the South China Sea, including the use of water cannons and risky maneuvers that endangered the safety of Philippine vessels and crew right inside the country’s economic zone on Ayungin Shoal while on a resupply mission.
During their phone conversation, Austin and Teodoro emphasized that the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty between the two nations extends its protective coverage to Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces, including those of the coast guard operating in the Pacific and South China Sea.
The discussion centered on enhancing the robust US-Philippines alliance through intensified bilateral training, enhanced interoperability, and increased support for the modernization of the Philippine Armed Forces. Specifically, they addressed the recent incident involving China obstructing a Philippine resupply mission to Second Thomas (Ayungin) Shoal on August 5.
Austin, echoing the concerns of several nations, expressed alarm over the hazardous operational activities that disrupt the regional status quo and directly imperil peace and stability in the area.
In response, the Chinese Embassy in Manila criticized Washington for repeatedly invoking the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, accusing the US of sensationalizing tensions in the South China Sea. China expressed a desire for Manila to engage in peaceful dialogue to find a middle ground in resolving its maritime dispute. (AI/MNM)
China has voiced its concern over what it perceives as the United States’ efforts to magnify tensions in the South China Sea (SCS) conflict by rallying allies. In a statement released via its embassy in Manila, China expressed its hope for Manila to engage in constructive dialogue and find a middle ground to peacefully resolve its maritime dispute.
The SCS, China asserted, should not be treated as a zone for external countries to interfere with, create discord, or instigate conflicts. Countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the US have collectively expressed concern regarding the recent incident on August 5th. This incident involved the China Coast Guard’s water bombing of Philippine vessels on a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal within the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
China affirmed its willingness to maintain a constructive approach to maritime concerns with the Philippines, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and consultation. The embassy’s spokesperson stated that to uphold maritime stability, China hopes the Philippines will join in concerted efforts and commence negotiations on proposed initiatives.
In addressing the United States, China called for the respect of its territorial sovereignty, maritime rights, and interests in the South China Sea. Additionally, it urged the US to recognize regional nations’ endeavors in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) explained that the presence of the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal within the WPS serves to safeguard the Philippines’ interests, particularly in response to China’s repeated calls for its removal.
The embassy highlighted that it had raised objections to the Philippine government in November 1999 following the grounding of BRP Sierra Madre in Ren’ai Jiao, an atoll located in the SCS. A timeline was provided by the embassy, outlining the events it contends led to the “unlawful seizure” of Ren’ai Jiao atoll by the Philippines, citing the grounding of BRP Sierra Madre in 1999.
(ai/mnm)
Photo: Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio warmly welcomes Atty. Ricardo Uy Morales II (right) as the new District Collector of the BOC Port of Cebu.
LAST MONDAY, August 7, the Bureau of Customs seemed to be hit by a thunderbolt when a Customs Personnel Order (CPO) reshuffling dated August 3, 2023, signed by Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio and approved by Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno, affecting several major collection districts like the Port of Cebu was leaked in social media.
But it looks like a blessing in disguise for the BOC Port of Cebu as it is now — hopefully — in good hands with District Collector Atty. Ricardo “Ricky” Uy Morales II assuming the BOC-POC leadership by virtue of the Rubio CPO.
Morales replaced his “worthy Brother Mason” District Collector Ciriaco “Dhucky” DG Ugay who was transferred to BOC Port of Subic in this latest Customs reshuffle.
As the new district collector of the premiere Port of Cebu, Morales is expected to consistently meet and surpass the revenue collection target for the remaining months of 2023.
Atty. Ricky, however, is no stranger to Cebu as he previously served as Deputy Collector for Operations of the Subport of Mactan headed by Collector Gerardo “Gerry” Campo.
Fate must be kind to Morales when on June 5 this year President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr. appointed him as Collector of Customs VI, vice Atty. Elvira Cruz who was appointed by former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.
Customs insiders are baffled why there are still some Duterte appointees at the BOC when out of delicadeza they should have tendered their courtesy resignations when BBM was elected President.
Are they kapalmuks?
Anyway, last June 13, by virtue of a CPO Morales was appointed as District Collector of Port of Clark while Ugay was plucked from Port of Ilo-ilo to head the Port of Cebu.
It can be noted that the Port of Clark under Morales has exceeded its monthly target collection in July by 10.39 percent.
According to the state-run Philippine News Agency (PNA), a report from the Collection Division showed that BOC-Port of Clark has collected P396.91 million as against its goal of P359.55 million.
The actual collection was also 21.51 percent higher compared to last year’s collection of P326.64 million.
A staunch anti-illegal drugs crusader, Morales has also intensified the anti-illegal drugs drive at the Port of Clark under his watch which led to the seizure of some P68.65 million worth of shabu, high-grade marijuana or “kush” and marijuana-infused vape cartridges in July alone.
I really hope that Atty. Morales can make the Port of Cebu great again by exceeding the monthly collection target.
At the same time, I’m also crossing my fingers that he will be on the level in addressing legitimate concerns of both Port of Cebu and Subport of Mactan employees as well as the Customs brokers.
A number of Customs brokers — who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal — have been complaining of what they call “impractically high” duties and taxes on their shipments which they liken to killing the proverbial goose that lays the golden egg.
(ai/mnm)
The Department of Health (DOH) hospitals in the Ilocos Region, namely Mariano Marcos Memorial Medical Center, Region 1 Medical Center, and Conrado F. Estrella Regional Trauma and Medical Center, actively participated in the synchronized introduction of the WMP or the “Wellness Movement Program” on Tuesday.
The program is aimed at enhancing the mental health and overall well-being of healthcare workers (HCWs) in their workplaces.
These healthcare facilities have aligned themselves with the nationwide assembly of 7,200 dedicated HCWs, collectively assuming the mantle of “wellness warriors” and advocating for mental health within their professional spheres.
As pointed out by Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco, HCWs face the daily rigors of a challenging work environment, a reality that predates the current pandemic.
This encompasses navigating through highly stressful and emotionally charged situations while attending to the sick, encountering human suffering and mortality, and often undertaking physically demanding tasks, such as patient handling.
These duties are compounded by interpersonal pressures from patients, family members, and employers.
“Incorporating the wellness movement program enables us to equip our HCWs to effectively cope with these demanding circumstances. The program blends scientific and pragmatic methodologies to guide physicians, nurses, and allied healthcare staff in the adoption of beneficial wellness practices,” Sydiongco said.
“These practices, which include grounding techniques, breathing exercises, and gratitude routines, prove invaluable during critical junctures of their daily routines.”
The program stands as a groundbreaking initiative aimed at nurturing the well-being of medical front liners by instilling effective wellness practices.
Its development was a collaborative effort involving the DOH and its implementation partner, “AHA! Behavioral Design.”
A pivotal aspect of the program revolves around “Wellness Gadgets,” tools meticulously crafted to seamlessly integrate into the day-to-day activities of HCWs.
These gadgets serve not only as personal aids but also enable participants to share their wellness journeys within community groups through both virtual and in-person engagements.
Emphasizing the importance of mastering stress management in the workplace, Conrado F. Estrella Regional Medical and Trauma Center Chief Emerson B. Patawaran emphasized, “Frequent encounters with stress can heighten the risk of developing mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, potentially exacerbating pre-existing conditions.”
He further stressed, “Elevating programs and initiatives geared toward alleviating job-related stress should be a paramount concern in our efforts to enhance working conditions.
As our responsibilities encompass delivering services aimed at improving the health and well-being of the public, prioritizing the welfare of our healthcare personnel is of utmost importance.”
In pursuit of these goals, medical personnel from the aforementioned hospitals have actively participated in wellness movement activities, including 5-10 minute meditation sessions. (AI/MNM)