By Junex Doronio
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. is expected to sign soon a landmark bill establishing a network of permanent, storm-resilient evacuation centers nationwide, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez announced Sunday (03 Nov 2024).
The proposed “Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act,” championed by Speaker Romualdez and fellow lawmakers, mandates the construction of fully equipped, disaster-ready evacuation centers in every city and municipality across the Philippines.
Designed as safe havens for millions of Filipinos, these facilities aim to provide secure refuge as the nation faces increasingly frequent and severe climate-driven calamities.
Following the devastation of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, Romualdez described the proposed law as “a lifesaving shield” for Filipino families facing extreme weather.
“The destruction brought by recent storms underscores the urgent need to act,” said Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus-member House of Representatives.
“The Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act represents our commitment to safeguarding every Filipino in times of crisis, ensuring that each city and municipality will have a secure, fully equipped center to shelter and support evacuees,” he added.
Formally designated as House Bill (HB) No. 7354 and Senate Bill (SB) No. 2451, the measure is currently in the process of enrollment and will soon be sent to President Marcos for his signature.
The legislation mandates that each center be constructed to withstand increasingly severe climate events affecting the Philippines, with facilities built to endure typhoon winds up to 300 kilometers per hour and seismic activity up to an 8.0 magnitude.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will lead the construction of these centers in coordination with local governments, adhering to the strict standards of the National Building Code.
Priority will be given to high-risk, disaster-prone areas, with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) acting as the lead implementing agency and coordinating with local governments to identify the most urgently needed sites.
Facilities will include sleeping areas, health care stations, shower and toilet facilities, and spaces for children and women, ensuring full accessibility for people with disabilities.
“Each center will be a stronghold where communities can find safety, comfort, and the essentials they need during an emergency,” Speaker Romualdez said.
“These centers are more than buildings; they are our nation’s promise to leave no Filipino unprotected,” he added.
The proposed law also allows local governments to designate existing structures as evacuation centers, provided they meet resilience and accessibility requirements.
In addition to essential amenities, each Ligtas Pinoy Center will include sanitation facilities, food preparation areas, emergency power, and designated areas for livestock — recognizing the importance of animals to many Filipino families’ livelihoods.
Speaker Romualdez emphasized that this legislation is a significant step in the government’s broader climate resilience strategy.
The Philippines, one of the world’s most disaster-prone nations, experiences typhoons, floods, and earthquakes annually, displacing thousands.
The Act responds to calls from local communities for safe, resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding natural and human-induced calamities.
“We are building a future where our communities can endure, where our families are safe, and where our nation stands ready to face the escalating impact of climate change,” the Speaker said.
“The Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act is both a reflection of our resolve and a beacon of hope for a safer, more prepared Philippines,” he added.
The legislation will initially draw from current appropriations, with ongoing support included in the national budget to ensure the construction and maintenance of the centers.
Once enacted, the Act is expected to roll out over the coming years, providing permanent, climate-resilient shelters to communities across the Philippines.
“This Act sends a clear message to every Filipino: in times of crisis, your safety and dignity are our priority,” Romualdez said. “With the Ligtas Pinoy Centers, help is near, and refuge is certain.”
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has declared November 4, this coming Monday, as a “National Day of Mourning.”
The declaration honors the victims of the recent severe tropical storm Kristine.
Proclamation No. 728 also mandates that all establishments with flags lower them to half-mast.
The public is encouraged to offer prayers for those affected by the calamity. “The entire nation is requested to offer prayers for the repose of the souls of the victims,” the President stated.
The proclamation, dated October 30, was signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.
According to the data included in the proclamation, over 1.7 million families were affected by Kristine, and 139 lives were lost.
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MANILA, Philippines — Though with a slight decline, majority of Filipinos continue to trust and approve of President Marcos’ performance, while Vice President Sara Duterte’s ratings have seen a further drop, according to a third-quarter OCTA Research survey.
President Marcos’ Ratings Hold Steady
The survey, conducted from Sept. 4 to 7, revealed that 66% of 1,200 respondents are satisfied with Marcos’ performance, down slightly from 68% in July. Trust in Marcos also dipped marginally from 71% to 69%, while dissatisfaction rose from 10% to 12%. OCTA noted that the changes in Marcos’ ratings remain within the survey’s margin of error.
Duterte’s Approval and Trust Ratings Drop
In contrast, Duterte’s ratings saw a sharper decline. Her performance approval fell eight points to 52%, with dissatisfaction rising from 12% to 15%. Trust in her decreased by six points to 59%, with notable drops in Metro Manila and Luzon, especially among socio-economic classes ABC and D. Her approval in Metro Manila dropped from 50% to 38%, and trust declined by 13 points to 47%.
The Vice President continues to hold strong support in Mindanao, where her ratings remain above 90%.
Possible Factors in Duterte’s Decline
The survey highlights a continuing decline in Duterte’s ratings, following her public split from the Marcos administration, including her resignation as education secretary in June and recent public criticisms of the President. Duterte is also currently under investigation by the House committee on good government for her office’s use of confidential funds.
Escudero’s Ratings Remain High
Senate President Francis Escudero maintained high trust and approval ratings, scoring 67% and 65%, respectively, in the same survey. He expressed gratitude to the public, stating that he is committed to serving the people.
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MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. honored the memory of his late father, former president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., during a solemn All Saints’ Day observance on Friday (01 Nov 2024).
Marcos, accompanied by his mother, former first lady Imelda Marcos, attended a Holy Mass by his father’s grave at Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery) in Taguig City. They were joined by family members, friends, and supporters dressed in red to pay their respects.
Following the Mass, President Marcos expressed gratitude to those in attendance and reflected on the lasting influence of his father’s teachings. He vowed to uphold his father’s legacy, emphasizing the importance of continuing his father’s vision for the country’s progress.
“Alam ninyo pagka mayroon tayong patay nakalagay diyan RIP, rest in peace. Siyempre ‘yan din ang ninanais natin para sa aking ama. Ngunit hindi sapat na sasabihin lang natin rest in peace,” Marcos said. (“We say RIP, or rest in peace, whenever someone passes. Of course, that’s what we want for my father. But it’s not enough to just say rest in peace.”)
He added, “Para mag-rest in peace ang aking ama, kailangan ipagpatuloy natin ang trabahong sinimulan niya, ipagpatuloy natin ang pagpaganda ng Pilipinas at ang pagmamahal sa Pilipino.” (“For my father to rest in peace, we need to continue the work he started, to develop the Philippines and to continue loving the Filipino people.”)
No Comment on VP Sara Duterte’s Threat
Reporters later asked the President about recent statements by Vice President Sara Duterte, who threatened to remove Marcos Sr.’s remains from Libingan ng mga Bayani and cast them into the West Philippine Sea if perceived political attacks against her persist.
President Marcos declined to comment, saying, “I’d rather not. Thank you.” When pressed further, he responded, “Let’s talk about it some other time.”
This silence has fueled speculation about tensions within the political alliance between Marcos and Duterte, though no further details were provided.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has pledged ongoing relief and recovery support for areas impacted by severe tropical storm Kristine.
“Relief and recovery efforts continue in areas affected by Typhoon Kristine, while preparations are ramping up for Typhoon Leon,” Marcos said in a statement on Thursday, October 31, 2024.
“I assure the Filipino people that the government is effectively managing all disaster response efforts. We remain in full control,” the President added.
The Chief Executive confirmed that there are sufficient resources to minimize impact, support recovery efforts, and rebuild even stronger.
“All government agencies remain on full alert, ready to deploy aid wherever needed.”
Earlier, Marcos directed local government units to prepare for the impact of incoming Typhoon Leon.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has directed local government units (LGUs) in areas affected by severe tropical storm Kristine to prepare for the incoming Typhoon Leon.
“Unfortunately, mukhang may padating na naman. Kaya’t paghandaan natin nang mabuti,” Marcos stated during the opening of the Maersk Optimus distribution center in Calamba City, Laguna.
According to the latest bulletin from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), Super Typhoon Leon is now intensifying as it moves closer to extreme northern Luzon.
Pagasa reported that Leon is moving west-northwestward at a speed of 10 km/h, with maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h near the center and gusts reaching up to 230 km/h.
Signal No. 2 has been raised over Babuyan Islands, the rest of mainland Cagayan, northern and eastern portions of Isabela, Apayao, Kalinga, northern and eastern portions of Abra, eastern Mountain Province (Paracelis), and Ilocos Norte.
Meanwhile, Signal No. 1 covers the rest of Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, the rest of Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, remaining areas of Abra, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Nueva Ecija, Aurora, northeastern Tarlac, northern Bulacan, northern Quezon (including Polillo Islands), Camarines Norte, northern Camarines Sur, and northern and eastern portions of Catanduanes.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. remains committed to achieving zero hunger for Filipinos.
“We gather to renew a promise: that no Filipino should go to bed hungry, and that no community will be overlooked in our fight against poverty,” he said during the presentation of the signed Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) Joint Memorandum Circular.
To fulfill this, the President directed all government agencies and urged local government units (LGUs) to support the EPAHP, promoting an accelerated approach to achieving zero hunger, food and nutrition security, and sustainable agriculture.
“Through this, we can improve farm productivity, link farmers, fisherfolk, and other food producers to larger markets, and provide secure income—ensuring that our children, mothers, and the most vulnerable have access to nutritious food,” he stated.
President Marcos also expressed gratitude to program partners for their significant contributions to the initiative’s success.
“We have yet to achieve zero hunger, but your dedication to this mission assures me that we are all united in this effort, ready to build a better nation for all, especially for those who need it the most,” he said.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has pledged ongoing support for the victims of severe tropical storm Kristine in Bicol until conditions stabilize.
Marcos highlighted the need for a long-term solution to the region’s flooding issues, which he attributes to climate change.
“For the immediate needs, I think we’re okay. The real problem here is that some areas are still flooded,” the President said during a situation briefing at Naga City Hall.
Naga City Mayor Nelson Legacion reported that damage to infrastructure, including bridges, has exceeded P1 billion.
Meanwhile, Acting Albay Governor Glenda Ong-Bongao stated that over 92,000 families in the province require additional food supplies.
Following the briefing, the President provided P50 million and P30 million in financial assistance from the Office of the President to Ong-Bongao and Legacion, respectively.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. reassured the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) of the government’s unwavering support in their mission to protect the country.
Marcos acknowledged the increasing challenges in the maritime sector due to “emerging climate change, rising sea levels, and geopolitical tensions.”
“Be assured that you are never alone in carrying the weight of this mission,” the President said.
“As we look ahead, we must recognize that the challenges you face are becoming more complex. Climate change, rising sea levels, and geopolitical tensions mean the stakes have never been higher,” he added.
The President also acknowledged the difficulty of monitoring the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone and patrolling a coastline spanning over 37 million kilometers.
Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing the PCG’s assets, maritime domain awareness, weapons capabilities, and necessary infrastructure.
“These efforts will boost your capacity to respond to any operations,” he emphasized.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – A total of ₱139,812,000 has been distributed to around 29,906 beneficiaries in Davao City, Davao de Oro, and Davao del Norte over four days, under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Ayuda Para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP).
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, alongside Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian and local partners, spearheaded a four-day AKAP payout from October 18 to 21 across Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, and Davao City. This initiative was carried out on President Marcos’ instructions to aid low-income and vulnerable residents.
The distribution began on Friday in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, followed by events in Davao de Oro over the weekend, and concluded in Davao City on Monday, where former Civil Service Commission Chair Karlo Nograles led the distribution.
Nograles coordinated the Davao City payout, which provided ₱14.5 million to 4,859 beneficiaries.
Speaker Romualdez emphasized that this initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of Davaoeños.
“The care and concern of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. drive us to ensure that every Filipino, especially those in Davao, are not left behind. We will continue working to secure your well-being,” Romualdez said.
Following President Marcos’ orders, Speaker Romualdez and DSWD ensured that aid reached those in most need, with AKAP helping ease everyday financial burdens.
Deputy Secretary General Sofonias “Ponyong” P. Gabonada Jr. highlighted the administration’s focus on providing timely assistance to marginalized sectors, especially in economically disadvantaged communities.
On October 18 in Davao del Norte, ₱48,625,000 was distributed to 9,725 beneficiaries, each receiving ₱5,000. Beneficiaries included teachers, non-teaching personnel, mall employees, private hospital staff, and other low-income residents. Vice Governor Oyo Uy and Rep. Alan Dujali played key roles in facilitating the distribution.
During the weekend of October 19 and 20, the AKAP distribution moved to Davao de Oro, where ₱76,610,000 was distributed to 15,322 beneficiaries, each receiving ₱5,000. The beneficiaries included barangay workers, school personnel, and other low-income earners. Financially challenged students also received aid through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS).
Local leaders such as Rep. Maricar Zamora, Councilor Myrill Apit of Mawab, Vice Mayor Honeyboy Libuangan of Laak, and other leaders from Maco, Mabini, and Nabunturan helped ensure smooth distribution.
On October 21, Nograles led the Davao City payout, distributing ₱14,577,000 to 4,859 beneficiaries, each receiving ₱3,000. The aid targeted low-income residents struggling with daily expenses.
“President Marcos always has your well-being in mind. We will continue working together to provide the necessary aid, especially for those in most need,” Nograles said.
Romualdez credited the success of the AKAP distribution to the close cooperation between national and local officials, praising the support of local leaders such as Nograles.
“The support of local leaders like Atty. Karlo Nograles is crucial to the success of projects like these,” Romualdez noted.
Nograles expressed gratitude for the national government’s focus on Davaoeños’ welfare.
“I am deeply thankful to President Marcos’ administration and Speaker Romualdez for their care and support for the people of Davao. With AKAP, more of our fellow citizens are being helped here in Davao City,” Nograles said.
With the success of the AKAP distribution in the Davao region, Speaker Romualdez assured that the government will continue to extend financial aid and other support to drive recovery and development in local communities.
“We will continue delivering aid to the communities that need it most, especially in the Davao provinces. Our administration is focused on providing long-term solutions to uplift the lives of every Filipino,” Romualdez said.
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JAKARTA—President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos arrived in Jakarta on Saturday evening, ahead of the inauguration of Indonesia’s President-elect Prabowo Subianto and Vice President-elect Gibran Rakabuming Raka. The historic ceremony is set to take place on Sunday, October 20.
The First Couple’s flight touched down at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, where they were greeted by Indonesian Minister of Home Affairs, General (ret.) Muhammad Tito Karnavian, along with other senior Indonesian officials and representatives from the Philippine Embassy in Indonesia.
In a statement, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Cesar Chavez confirmed the warm reception extended to the Marcoses, sharing that the Indonesian government, alongside Philippine officials, ensured a welcoming atmosphere upon their arrival.
The visit follows an invitation from outgoing Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who personally asked President Marcos to witness the transition of power to President-elect Prabowo and Vice President-elect Gibran. Several photos released by the PCO showcased the cordial welcome, with both Indonesian and Philippine dignitaries in attendance.
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MANILA – A recent survey by OCTA Research indicates a growing base of support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., with 38 percent of adult Filipinos now identifying as pro-Marcos. This is a notable increase, continuing the steady upward trend seen throughout 2024.
The findings, derived from the Tugon ng Masa (TNM) survey conducted from August 28 to September 2, 2024, reflect a 2-percent increase compared to the previous quarter’s results. OCTA Research noted that while the national-level change seems minimal, the cumulative data from this year demonstrates consistent growth in pro-Marcos sentiment.
In contrast, only 7 percent of respondents expressed support for the opposition, a slight uptick from the previous quarter’s 5 percent. Support for the Duterte family and their allies, meanwhile, has waned, with 15 percent of respondents identifying as pro-Duterte—a one-percent decrease.
The survey also revealed that 26 percent of Filipinos consider themselves politically independent, a decline of five percentage points from the previous quarter. Additionally, 14 percent remain undecided regarding their political preferences.
Regionally, Marcos enjoys robust support in Metro Manila and Balance Luzon, where 42 and 43 percent of respondents, respectively, back the President. The Visayas saw a rise in pro-Marcos sentiment, reaching 37 percent, while Mindanao held steady at 25 percent.
Among socioeconomic groups, support surged in Class E, rising from 25 percent to 40 percent. Older age groups, particularly those aged 45 and above, continue to back the President, with figures ranging from 38 to 48 percent across various age brackets.
Despite Mindanao remaining a stronghold for Duterte, with 48 percent of respondents identifying as pro-Duterte, his influence is shrinking in other regions. Metro Manila and Balance Luzon recorded sharp drops in support for the Duterte camp, at just 6 percent and 3 percent, respectively.
The OCTA survey, which involved face-to-face interviews with 1,200 adult respondents, has a margin of error of ±3 percent at the national level. It is non-commissioned and primarily focuses on the political leanings of adult Filipinos.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — More than 15,000 local showbiz workers and talents received a significant boost on Sunday (13 Oct 2024) through the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. The initiative, worth P75 million, was launched at the PhilSports Arena (commonly known as ULTRA) in Pasig City.
The two-day event, which concludes on Monday, October 14, 2024, titled “Paglinang sa Industriya ng Paglikha,” aims to uplift professionals from the film, television, theater, and radio sectors by offering a range of essential services and benefits.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, a key proponent of the BPSF, highlighted that the program has already served more than 2.5 million families, providing over P10 billion in government services and aid across more than 24 areas in the Philippines.
“Ang BPSF ay isa sa mga programa ni Pangulong Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos na layuning matulungan ang bawat sektor ng ating lipunan, kabilang ang mga nasa creative industry. Ipinapakita nito na hindi nakakalimutan ng pamahalaan ang ating mga manggagawa sa larangan ng sining at media,” Romualdez said in his message to the beneficiaries.
Among the notable speakers at the event were Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., ACT-CIS Partylist Representative Erwin Tulfo, Pasig City Representative Roman Romulo, former Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos, MMDA Chairman Romando Artes, Quezon City Representatives Arjo Atayde and Franz Pumaren, Cavite Representative Lani Mercado-Revilla, actor Dingdong Dantes of Aktor PH, and Jose “Joey” Javier Reyes of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP). Other industry figures like Boots Anson Roa from MOWELFUND and Paolo Villaluna of the Film Academy of the Philippines also attended.
Several lawmakers, including Marikina City Representative Stella Quimbo, Manila City Representative Ernix Dionisio, and Parañaque City Representative Gus Tambunting, were also present, among others.
Deputy Secretary General Sofonias “Ponyong” Gabonada Jr. shared that under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Ayuda sa Kapos Ang Kita Program (AKAP), eligible beneficiaries received P5,000 in cash assistance. True to his “Mr. Rice” moniker, Romualdez distributed 75,000 kilos of rice, with each beneficiary receiving 5 kilos.
Gabonada further explained that this financial assistance is part of a broader effort to support Filipino professionals across all sectors. Additionally, the BPSF aims to enhance the skills of the creative industry through various training sessions and workshops, helping participants innovate and thrive in their fields.
The event, involving 23 government agencies, provided access to more than 100 essential services, including permits, licenses, and health services vital to professionals in the creative industry.
“Sa bawat serbisyong hatid ng BPSF, layunin nating gawing mas madali at abot-kamay ang mga oportunidad para sa ating mga manggagawa sa creative sector,” Romualdez emphasized.
The fair also served as a platform for networking and collaboration within the industry, fostering innovation and growth in the creative sector. Training programs from agencies like TESDA and DOLE ensured that beneficiaries gained the necessary skills to succeed.
The BPSF also underscored the importance of supporting Filipino arts and media, in line with the Marcos administration’s vision of promoting sustainable growth across all sectors.
“Nandito ang ating gobyerno para siguraduhing may sapat na suporta at oportunidad para sa ating mga kababayan, lalo na sa mga nasa creative industry,” Romualdez added.
The event offered cultural and creative workshops to help attendees hone their skills in arts, media, and entertainment, with the aim of building a stronger creative ecosystem that supports economic growth and cultural identity.
In addition to the cash assistance, the BPSF partnered with industry stakeholders to provide job fairs and industry support programs tailored to the needs of creative professionals. The overarching goal of the initiative is to offer a comprehensive approach to uplifting the creative industry by making resources and opportunities more accessible.
Romualdez expressed hope that the BPSF’s initiatives would lead to long-term benefits for the creative sector. “Naniniwala ako na ang mga programa ng BPSF ay magbibigay-daan sa mas maraming oportunidad para sa ating mga kababayan sa creative sector, at magdudulot ng mas matatag na kinabukasan para sa kanila,” he said.
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MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the significance of fostering good relations between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its external partners to ensure peace and stability in the region. Speaking at the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) in Vientiane, Laos, on Oct. 9, 2024, Marcos stressed the need for continued collaboration to address pressing regional and global issues.
He highlighted the importance of AIPA’s engagement with the parliaments of ASEAN’s external partners in advancing regional priorities and promoting mutual understanding. According to Marcos, inter-parliamentary diplomacy, with full respect for ASEAN’s Centrality, plays a key role in ensuring regional resilience amid geopolitical challenges.
“Our collective efforts must be guided by ASEAN’s commitment to sovereign equality, peaceful dispute resolution, and adherence to the rule of law,” Marcos stated.
The president also called for enhanced economic integration, investment in infrastructure, and stronger cybersecurity measures to boost ASEAN’s regional security and prosperity. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and tackling climate change.
Marcos urged ASEAN legislative bodies to enact responsive legislation and policies to address these priorities, which are vital for building a peaceful and prosperous Southeast Asian community by 2025.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. directed government agencies to ensure the safe and timely repatriation of Filipinos affected by the crisis in the Middle East.
“We are now going to evacuate our people by whatever means—by air or by sea,” Marcos said during a Zoom meeting with Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, and Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac.
“And just make all the preparations so that all our assets are nearby. If we need to deploy a ship, it should be close to Beirut. As soon as the Embassy gives us clearance and confirms that our people can go, we can evacuate them immediately so they won’t have to wait long in danger areas,” he added.
The President’s remarks followed Defense Secretary Teodoro’s update that, while the government is prepared for the repatriation, they are awaiting clearances from Lebanon before proceeding.
Teodoro stated that repatriation will begin once they obtain all the necessary exit clearances.
As of October 8, the Philippine Embassy in Beirut has received 1,721 applications for repatriation, with 511 already repatriated and 171 ready for repatriation.
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Vientiane, Laos – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met on October 8, 2024, during the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits to deepen bilateral ties, focusing on economic cooperation, particularly in trade and agriculture.
Both leaders emphasized their commitment to celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Philippines-Vietnam Strategic Partnership in 2025 by enhancing collaboration in key sectors.
Marcos also extended his condolences for the losses Vietnam experienced due to Typhoon Yagi and the passing of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong.
Marcos is in Laos for the four-day ASEAN summit to engage with fellow Southeast Asian leaders on various regional issues.
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MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed new members to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) National Commission of the Philippines (UNACOM).
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) released the list of new UNACOM members via its official Facebook page on Saturday.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director General Jose Francisco Benitez, Commission on Higher Education Chairperson J. Prospero de Vera III, and Bangsamoro Education Minister Mohagber Iqbal were appointed to the UNACOM Committee on Education.
Serving in the UNACOM Committee on Social and Human Sciences are Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Philippine Commission on Women Executive Director Khay Ann Magundayao-Borlado, and National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa.
For the UNACOM Committee on Culture, Marcos selected National Museum of the Philippines Director Jeremy Robert Barns, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, National Commission for Culture and the Arts Chairperson Victorino Manalo, and Acting Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque.
Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga and Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. will be members of the UNACOM Committee on Science and Technology.
For the UNACOM Committee on Communication and Information, the president tapped Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino Chairperson Arthur Casanova, Information and Communications Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy, and National Academy of Science and Technology-Engineering Sciences and Technology Division Chairperson Alvin Culaba.
UNACOM, established under Republic Act 621 in 1951, was originally mandated to serve as an advisory and liaison body connecting relevant Philippine partners to UNESCO’s work in education, science, and culture. Its role has since evolved to include formulating policy feedback.
Other Appointments
In addition, Sarah Mae Cruz, Jennifer Fandialan-Legaspi, and Jane Yu were named Assistant Solicitors General; Rosalinda Bautista was appointed Deputy National Statistician; Mariflor Castillo as Special Prosecutor at the Ombudsman’s office; Felicitas Bay as Migrant Workers Undersecretary; Farwa Hombre as Health Assistant Secretary; and Reymundo de Guzman Jr. as Chair of the Office of Transportation Cooperatives.
President Marcos also made new appointments at the Department of Agrarian Reform, including Rodolfo Castil Jr. (Assistant Secretary); Abdullah Balindong and Elpidio Santos (Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officers II); and Josephine Aguinaldo and Virginia Batosalem (Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officers I).
At the Department of Education, Roger Masapol was appointed Assistant Secretary; Paolo Mikael Quilala as Director IV; Guia del Valle-Ramoso as Director III; and Gaudencio Aljibe Jr., Juan Araojo Jr., Cynthia Ayles, Anelito Bongcawil, Melanie Estacio, Soraya Faculo, Jinky Firman, Nicasio Frio, Rommel Jandayan, Ernesto Servillon Jr., Bernadette Susvilla, Ferdinand Sy, and Novelyn Vilchez as Schools Division Superintendents.
Other key appointments include Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Yvonne Purisima Flores, and Juan Pulhin as members of the Climate Change Commission’s People Survival Fund Board, representing non-government organizations, the business sector, and the academe and scientific community, respectively.
Carmen Leonor Alcantara and Roy Mahinay were appointed to the Presidential Agrarian Reform Council, with Alcantara representing affected landowners in Mindanao and Mahinay serving as the representative of agrarian reform beneficiaries in Visayas.
Francisco Gil Garcia will join the Philippine Rice Research Institute’s Board of Trustees as the academic community representative, while Ericson Velasquez will represent the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Community.
Dante Elcinas and Kenneth Fabila were named members of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board, representing the workers’ sector in the Bicol Region and the employers’ sector in Eastern Visayas, respectively.
Additionally, Glady Bunao will serve as a member of the National Authority for Child Care, representing non-government organizations. Other notable appointments include Romeo Racadio as Director IV at the National Security Council; Rosalinda Chiong as Director II at the National Bureau of Investigation; Emmanuel Ferrer, Norman Uyvico, and Remedios Vegim-Teves as Directors II at the Labor Department.
Marcos also appointed Janet Quizon as Director III at the Science and Technology Department; Gloriece Glen Do as Deputy Executive Director III at the Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving; and Frances Cabana as Director IV at NEDA.
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By Janvic Mateo
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte have experienced a dip in public approval and trust, according to a recent Pulse Asia survey conducted from September 6 to 13.
Marcos’ approval rating dropped to 50%, down three points from June’s 53%. Meanwhile, his trust rating slipped to 50% from 52%. Disapproval of his performance rose slightly from 19% to 21%.
Vice President Duterte’s approval rating saw a significant decline, dropping from 69% in June to 60%. Her trust rating also decreased by 10 points, from 71% to 61%. Disapproval of her performance increased from 9% to 17%.
Senate President Francis Escudero, in his first rating since taking office in May, earned a 60% approval rating but saw a 13-point drop in trust, from 69% to 56%.
The survey, which included 2,400 respondents, reported a margin of error of plus-minus two percent.
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MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has officially signed Republic Act (RA) 12023 into law, imposing a 12 percent value-added tax (VAT) on foreign digital service providers (DSPs) such as Netflix, Disney, and HBO.
The law, signed on Wednesday (02 Oct 2024), is part of the administration’s priority measures aimed at generating additional government revenue and ensuring a level playing field for local providers.
In his message, Marcos emphasized the importance of equal contributions from all companies benefiting from the Philippine digital economy, whether they are small startups or global tech giants.
“If you are reaping the rewards of a fruitful digital economy here, it is only right that you contribute to its growth. Whether you’re a local tech startup or a multinational company earning from the Philippines, being part of our community comes with a shared responsibility,” Marcos said.
The government expects to collect around PHP105 billion in revenue over the next five years through this law. The funds will be used to build 42,000 classrooms, more than 6,000 rural health units, and 7,000 kilometers of farm-to-market roads.
Additionally, 5 percent of the revenues will go to supporting the local creative industry, including artists, filmmakers, and musicians, ensuring that the people who contribute content to digital platforms also benefit from this growth.
Marcos expressed his gratitude to the legislators for passing RA 12023 and called on companies to comply with the new rules.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. revealed on Monday, September 30, 2024, that he has two potential candidates in mind to replace Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos, who is set to file his Certificate of Candidacy (COC).
When asked if a successor for Abalos has already been chosen, Marcos responded, “Yes.”
“Let’s allow Secretary Abalos to continue his work for now. I don’t want him to feel like we’re rushing him out, especially since he’s done such an excellent job at DILG,” the President said.
“So, once he files [his certificate of candidacy], we will announce his replacement,” Marcos added.
Abalos previously confirmed that he will step down from his position to run for senator in the 2025 elections. He is part of the administration’s senatorial slate.
The filing of COCs will take place from October 1 to 8.
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