By El Amigo
MANILA — China expressed on Friday (31 May 2024) its willingness to maintain open channels of dialogue and communication with the Philippines amid rising territorial claims in the South China Sea.
On Wednesday (May 29, 2024), China responded to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s concerns regarding new regulations the Chinese Coast Guard issued on the same day.
These regulations, which could lead to the detention of foreign nationals in the disputed waters, were described by Marcos as “worrisome” and an “escalation of the situation.”
President Marcos emphasized his commitment to seizing every opportunity to engage with China, aiming to curb aggressive actions and safeguard the rights of Filipino fishermen in the South China Sea.
During a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated China’s openness to dialogue and communication with the Philippines.
She emphasized the importance of genuine dialogue and the necessity for any agreements reached to be adhered to, cautioning against the continuation of provocations under the guise of seeking dialogue.
This stance underscores the delicate balance both nations seek to maintain amidst their ongoing maritime disputes.
(IA/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. stated that he was aware of the recent leadership change in the Senate, which resulted in the ousting of former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri.
“When did I know? The minute they started,” Marcos said.
“Actually, it was Senator Chiz. The minute he started thinking about it, he brought it up, saying, ‘I think I’m going to try to lead the SP,'” he added.
Marcos clarified that he had nothing to do with the leadership change, noting that he hadn’t spoken with former SP Zubiri about the issue.
The President explained that he did not speak to any parties involved because he was out of town.
He pointed out that he received the news about Escudero assuming Senate leadership upon his return to Manila from the trip.
When asked if he still trusts Zubiri, the President responded affirmatively.
“It was a decision made by the senators,” Marcos said.
“So, that does not reflect my view of Senator Migz or the trust and confidence that I have in him.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act No. 11996, also known as the Eddie Garcia Law, aimed at safeguarding the rights of movie and television workers.
The law ensures that workers are protected by their employers or principals in the workplace. It includes provisions for regulating work hours, wages, social security and welfare benefits, as well as ensuring necessities, health, safety, working conditions, standards, and insurance.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) highlighted that this legislation was crafted in response to the tragic accident that led to Garcia’s death on a filming set. It mandates that employers and workers must agree to terms in a language or dialect understood by both parties before commencing work.
The law explicitly prohibits discrimination based on factors such as race, color, descent, national or ethnic origin, or religion. It emphasizes the equal recognition and enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all workers.
Signed on May 24, the Eddie Garcia Law marks a significant step toward protecting the movie industry.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Newly installed Senate President Chiz Escudero stated on Wednesday (22 May 2024) that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was unaware of the leadership change in the upper chamber.
“He only mentioned that he was in Dumaguete and Bacolod, and by the time he landed… he discovered that there had already been a change [of leadership],” Escudero informed reporters during a press briefing.
The senator had previously indicated that he discussed his Senate Presidency plan with fellow senators on Thursday (16 May 2024).
Meanwhile, Escudero expressed uncertainty about how former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri learned of the plan to unseat him.
“It was only last Thursday when I consulted [my fellow senators] and we reached a decision… I don’t know how he became aware of it on Wednesday,” he remarked.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez congratulated Escudero on Wednesday (22 May 2024) as he assumed the Senate Presidency and expressed appreciation to Zubiri.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — As House leaders welcomed the decision of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to create a “super body” tasked with further enhancing human rights protection in the country, Lanao del Sur First District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong has described its establishment as a positive step toward improving human rights efforts in the country.
Adiong, vice-chairman of the House Human Rights Committee, also viewed the super body’s creation as a testament to the President’s recognition of the importance of human rights in governance.
“Any effort that would improve the quality of the efforts of our government to preserve the human rights of each citizen to me is a welcome development,” Adiong said.
He added: “Ito ay recognition ng ating Pangulo na binibigyan nya ng primacy ang karapatan ng bawat tao, bawat Pilipino.”
Adiong also stressed the importance of coordination between branches of government in addressing human rights issues effectively.
“It would strengthen and promote and uphold human rights in this country,” he noted.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In line with the vision of Bagong Pilipinas, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday (16 May 2024) said Northern Mindanao, including its center Cagayan de Oro City (CDO), remains the government’s top priority in infrastructure development.
For transport projects, the President mentioned the expansion of the Laguindingan Airport with a total project cost of close to P13 billion and the rehabilitation of the CDO Coastal Road and CDO Diversion Road.
The government is also fast tracking the completion of the P700-million Cagayan de Oro Port Expansion Project, he said. Once completed, the project would ease port traffic congestion, speed up transport of goods and prop up regional economic activity.
“Tuloy-tuloy ang mga programang imprastraktura sa inyong lungsod at rehiyon, gaya ng pagpagawa ng mga paliparan, kalsada, at iba pang mga proyekto,” PBBM said.
Aside from building airports, ports and roads, he said the government will also construct the Trauma and Multi-Specialty Centers in Northern Mindanao Medical Center.
“Sa mga ito, makikita natin ang mga kongkretong hakbang sa kung paano natin pagbubutihin ang transportasyon, kalusugan, at imprastruktura sa rehiyon,” the President stressed.
The government is also supportive of irrigation and flood control projects in the region that will address water shortage and flooding particularly in CDO.
Marcos Jr. mentioned the scheduled launching of Flood Risk Improvement and Management Project for the Cagayan de Oro River. The project will greatly ease flooding in CDO especially if backed by other irrigation and water projects.
To normalize water supply in the city, Marcos said his government negotiated with Manuel Pangilinan’s CDO Bulk Water while a long-term solution is being threshed out.
“Pumayag po si Mr. Pangilinan sa ating pakiusap at handa po siyang makipag-pulong sa inyong alkalde upang matuldukan na ang suliraning ito at mabigyan ng kinakailangang tubig ang lagpas 60,000 kababayan dito sa CDO,” he said.
“Akin ding inatasan ang Local Water Utilities Administration na pag-aralan ang posibleng pamamahala nito sa Cagayan de Oro Water District upang sa lalong madaling panahon ay mapag-aralan ang solusyon sa sitwasyon ng suplay ng tubig dito sa inyong lugar,” the President told CDO residents.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has instructed the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to enforce strict policies to ensure no backlog on new license plates for motor vehicles.
“Let’s be strict about this,” President Marcos told LTO chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza during a sectoral meeting with officials from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the LTO.
Mendoza informed President Marcos that the backlog of 245,975 new license plates for four-wheeled vehicles has been addressed, with all pairs now released.
According to Mendoza, most license plates are currently held by car dealers who have yet to distribute them to their customers.
Mendoza also mentioned that around 130 show-cause orders have been issued to dealers, requiring them to explain their failure to deliver the license plates to the respective buyers.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has acknowledged the courage of Filipino journalists in delivering unbiased news reports, highlighting their crucial role in countering misinformation.
“As the fourth pillar of our democracy, their words serve as our strongest defense against misinformation and fake news. Now, more than ever, their commitment to their work is vital,” Marcos stated.
The United Nations General Assembly has designated May 3 as World Press Freedom Day or World Press Day, aiming to raise awareness of the importance of press freedom and remind governments of their responsibility to uphold the right to freedom of expression.
This year’s Press Freedom Day theme is “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.”
The 2024 celebration will focus on the significance of journalism and freedom of expression in addressing the ongoing global environmental crisis.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Unlike the previous Duterte administration which was rocked by alleged human rights violations in connection with its “bloody” drug war, the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. has recorded a “much lower” crime rate.
This was disclosed on Friday by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) headed by veteran journalist and lawyer Secretary Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil.
At the same time, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. attributed the lower crime rate to the sustained crime prevention programs, public safety initiatives, and convergent efforts of the DILG and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Citing data from the DILG, the PCO acknowledged the country’s index crime volume decreased from 196,519 between July 1, 2016, and April 21, 2018, to 71,544 between July 1, 2022, to April 21, 2024.
The PCO noted that the peace and order indicator also decreased for the same periods from 541,917 between July 1, 2016, and April 21, 2018, to 371,801 between July 1, 2022, and April 21, 2024.
The average monthly crime rate also fell for the same periods, respectively from 21.92 to 15.04.
The PCO observed that crimes such as theft, physical injury, robbery, rape, murder, carnapping, and homicide also went down from 196,420 to 71,133, or 63.79 percent decrease.
Non-index crime volume also decreased from 345,398 between July 1, 2016, and April 21, 2018, to 300,257 between July 1, 2022, and April 21, 2024, the PCO said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has defended Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio following new calls for her resignation from the Cabinet.
“I don’t see the reason behind that,” Marcos remarked when asked to respond to suggestions to remove Duterte-Carpio as Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd).
He stated his intention to meet with Vice President Duterte to discuss important matters.
When questioned about assuring the Vice President of retaining her post, the Chief Executive emphasized that he didn’t find it necessary.
“She doesn’t need my assurance. She knows that,” he affirmed.
Marcos further asserted that the Vice President would remain as Education Secretary.
“Any cabinet secretaries not fulfilling their duties will be replaced,” he said. “All other matters are not up for discussion. If one can no longer perform due to illness or incompetence, they will be replaced. But that’s not the case with Inday Sara,” he added.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. reassured the public of an adequate rice supply despite the El Niño phenomenon, alleviating concerns about shortages.
“When it comes to rice, our supply is sufficient. People need not worry. In fact, in areas with irrigation, our yield has even increased, in terms of tons per hectare,” Marcos stated.
“However, there are still challenges. For instance, only about 50 percent of lands are irrigated, leaving others struggling. In Occidental Mindoro, we estimate that only one percent of irrigated lands are affected by El Niño and require assistance,” he added.
The President highlighted the National Irrigation Administration’s (NIA) efforts to expand irrigation coverage, enabling farmers to cultivate crops, particularly rice, even during droughts.
“We’ve provided a lot, including post-harvest facilities. Instead of transporting paddy to distant locations for milling, we’re establishing facilities locally, ensuring farmers earn more,” he emphasized.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has set an ambitious target for the creation of 1 million digital jobs by 2028, potentially generating PHP24 billion to support public services and infrastructure projects.
President Marcos shared this goal during a meeting with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) at Malacañan Palace on Friday (April 19, 2024), where updates on Digital Infrastructure Work Plans were discussed.
“We’re committed to generating 1 million digital jobs by 2028, which could inject PHP 24 billion into funding various public services and infrastructure projects,” Marcos stated in a Facebook post on Saturday.
The President’s announcement came after extensive deliberations with the PSAC, focusing on aligning training initiatives with market demands to equip the workforce with the necessary skills and foster digital innovation and economic growth nationwide.
In a subsequent statement released on Sunday, PSAC confirmed that Marcos emphasized a “strategic focus” on achieving the target of 1 million digital jobs by 2028 during their meeting.
Furthermore, the President advocated for strengthening the Inter-Agency Council for Development and Competitiveness of the Philippine Digital Workforce, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in targeted skills development and training programs.
This inter-agency council, mandated by Republic Act No. 11927, also known as the “Philippine Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act,” serves as the principal planning and coordinating body to enhance the skills and competitiveness of the Philippine workforce in the digital era.
Among the key initiatives discussed was the implementation of the 10,000 Digital Civil Servants project. This project will commence with the foundational training of approximately 40 participants in Singapore, who will subsequently lead a larger training cohort in the Philippines. This endeavor aims to significantly enhance the government’s digital service capabilities.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has enacted Executive Order No. 56, directing the retrieval of expired special plate numbers to alleviate traffic congestion experienced by commuters.
Under EO 56, Marcos announced the government’s retrieval of expired special plate numbers previously issued to former government officials, reducing the list from 16 to 14 to ensure their legitimate use.
“After carefully considering your suggestions, I’m pleased to announce a series of initiatives aimed at expediting our traffic solutions to improve the lives of every Filipino,” stated the President.
Earlier, Marcos issued Administrative Order No. 18, prohibiting government officials and personnel from using sirens, blinkers, and similar signaling devices.
Furthermore, Marcos emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to develop a comprehensive plan to improve Metro Manila’s transportation system and address traffic congestion in the metropolis.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA – The Marcos administration on Saturday distanced itself from “unsubstantiated or imaginary promises” of alleged secret non-binding gentlemen’s agreements or deals aimed at creating distractions, divisions, and conflict.
National Security Council (NSC) Adviser Eduardo Año stated in a Saturday (20 April 2024) release that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has been unequivocal in asserting that his administration is unaware of any secret or gentleman’s agreement regarding its territories.
“If such agreements were made under a previous administration, they have since been nullified,” Año declared.
He emphasized that any such agreements if proven true, would be detrimental to national interest and the constitution.
“If such agreements exist, it is the duty of those accountable to elucidate them to the Filipino people, but they are not and will never be binding under this administration,” Año affirmed.
He urged all Filipinos to resist and counteract “corrosive narratives” seeking to undermine national interests.
“We must not succumb to tactics aiming to sow division in our nation and weaken our determination in asserting our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea,” he asserted.
During the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City, NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya reassured that the President enjoys full support from the police and the military.
“The National Security Adviser’s call is for us to shield our Armed Forces and the Philippine National Police from partisan political activities. Let us refrain from exploiting them because, in any democracy, the Armed Forces are expected to remain neutral and apolitical – regardless of any change in administration, the commander-in-chief remains the same,” Malaya stated.
“They will not waver in their allegiance to the President just because someone requests it. They are professionals who understand the chain of command, respect the military hierarchy, and remain loyal to the current Commander-In-Chief, President Bongbong Marcos,” Malaya added.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In accordance with the marching order of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has assured full government support and assistance for the four Filipino seafarers who were among the crew of container ship MSC Aries, which Iranian forces seized near the Strait of Hormuz.
On Saturday (13 April 2024), Iran’s Revolutionary Guards reportedly seized a container ship, with four Filipino seafarers among the crew on board MSC Aries, in apparent retaliation to an Israeli attack on Iran consulate in Syria.
“Upon directive of the President, we are in touch with the families of our dear seafarers and have assured them of full government support and assistance,” the DMW said in a statement.
It added that it is now coordinating with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) as well as the seafarers’ manning agency and MSC Aries’ ship manager and operator “to ensure the safety and well-being, as well as the release, of our dear seafarers.”
To recall, some Filipino crew members of an oil tanker that Iran seized in January in response to the US seizure of crude from Iran on the same vessel in 2023 were sent back to the Philippines in March.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
Senator Francis Tolentino is urging President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to promptly issue an executive order to implement adjustments in the work schedules of government employees.
This call comes in response to the Metro Manila Council’s (MMC) appeal to Malacañang to replicate their directive regarding the adjustment of work schedules for employees in local government units and agencies in Metro Manila.
The proposed adjustment shifts the schedule from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tolentino emphasizes the importance of extending this adjustment to all government agencies to ensure consistency across the board.
According to the senator, the MMC’s directive is a step in the right direction for making Metro Manila more sustainable and commuter-friendly.
He argues that aligning the schedules of the government and private sectors will alleviate heavy traffic during peak hours and enhance the commuting experience.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued a directive for the adoption and enforcement of the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023-2028, aimed at bolstering the security and resilience of Philippine cyberspace.
Executive Order (EO) 58, signed by Marcos on April 4, mandates the implementation of the NCSP 2023-2028, crafted by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), as a comprehensive strategy for the integrated development and strategic direction of the country’s cybersecurity efforts.
All national government agencies and instrumentalities are required to develop, adopt, and execute their cybersecurity plans and strategies in alignment with the NCSP 2023-2028, according to EO 58. Local government units (LGUs) are also encouraged to follow suit.
In accordance with its mandate under Section 15 of Republic Act (RA) 10844, the DICT formulated the NCSP 2023-2028 to establish the country’s policy direction and operational guidelines for creating a trusted, secure, and resilient cyberspace for all Filipinos.
The EO emphasizes the necessity for full support and cooperation from all relevant government agencies, instrumentalities, and LGUs to ensure the successful implementation of the NCSP 2023-2028.
Furthermore, the DICT is directed to establish an effective system for monitoring, reviewing, and implementing the NCSP 2023-2028, in compliance with existing laws and regulations. Additionally, the DICT is instructed to collaborate with the private sector to provide technical assistance to other government agencies and offices in implementing the NCSP 2023-2028.
The EO also requires the DICT to submit bi-annual progress reports on the implementation of the NCSP 2023-2028 to the President through the Office of the Executive Secretary and the National Cybersecurity Inter-Agency Committee.
Funding for the implementation of EO 58 will be sourced from current appropriations of concerned agencies, subject to relevant budgetary laws and regulations. Future funding requirements will be included in the General Appropriations Act through the standard budget preparation process.
The enhancement of security and resilience in the country’s cyberspace aligns with the key strategies outlined in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 to ensure safety and security in both cyber and physical domains.
A copy of EO 58 was released on Saturday, with the directive taking immediate effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
(By El Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. joined the Catholic community in celebrating the resurrection of Jesus this Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024, emphasizing the importance of living a Christ-like life.
In a statement, Marcos remarked, “This auspicious occasion reminds us that, while faith, devotion, and sacrifice are, by themselves, worthy ideals to aspire for, they also yield great rewards both here on earth and in the hereafter.”
“Let us draw inspiration from this important narrative as we overcome our personal and spiritual challenges. May this day also ignite our hearts to live a Christ-like life, especially in sharing our blessings with the poor, the sick, and the downtrodden,” the President added.
Marcos called upon the public to unite in prayer for the continued guidance of God in the endeavor to build a Bagong Pilipinas.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Following the latest aggressive acts of China in the West Philippine Sea, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. has signed an executive order calling for the strengthening of the country’s maritime security and maritime domain awareness.
This was disclosed on Sunday (31 March 2024) by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) headed by veteran journalist and lawyer Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil.
The PCO said Marcos Jr. signed Executive Order No. 57 to strengthen maritime security and raise awareness on the maritime domain amid “serious challenges” threatening the Philippines’ territorial integrity and the “peaceful existence of Filipinos.”
“Despite efforts to promote stability and security in our maritime domain, the Philippines continues to confront a range of serious challenges that threaten not only the country’s territorial integrity, but also the peaceful existence of Filipinos, including their fundamental right to live in peace and freedom, free from fear of violence and threat,” the President said.
Under EO 57, the National Coast Watch Council has been renamed and reorganized into the National Maritime Council (NMC) chaired by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.
“Strengthening the country’s maritime security and domain awareness is imperative to comprehensively tackle the crosscutting issues that impact the nation’s national security, sovereignty, sovereign rights, and maritime jurisdiction over its extensive maritime zones,” Marcos Jr. further said.
The President also ordered the NMC to formulate and issue guidelines for the effective implementation of EO 57 within 60 days from its effectivity.
It was learned that the NMC will have as members the secretaries of the following departments:
Department of National Defense (DND);
National Security Adviser (National Security Council);
Department of Agriculture (DA);
Department of Energy (DOE);
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR);
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA);
Department of Finance (DOF);
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG); and
Department of Transportation (DOTr).
The Solicitor General and the director general of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency were also named members of the NMC.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Belying the “weak” image painted on him by former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday (28 March 2024) minced no words when he declared that Filipinos will not yield to China’s “open, unabating, and illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks.”
Marcos Jr. made the statement on the heels of the March 23 attack by China Coast Guard (CCG) against a Philippine vessel which was enroute to Ayungin Shoal for a resupply mission.
Three Philippine Navy personnel were reportedly injured due to the incident.
On the same day, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) also reported that a team of Filipino scientists and researchers was “harassed” by a Chinese helicopter, resulting in injuries of some members of the team.
“We seek no conflict with any nation, more so nations that purport and claim to be our friends but we will not be cowed into silence, submission, or subservience. Filipinos do not yield,” the President stressed in a statement.
“Over the succeeding weeks there shall be, implemented by the relevant national government agencies and instrumentalities, a response and countermeasure package that is proportionate, deliberate, and reasonable in the face of the open, unabating, and illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks by agents of the China Coast Guard and the Chinese Maritime Militia,” he added.
Apparently emboldened by the outpouring of international support, Marcos Jr. revealed that he has been in “constant communication” with representatives of allies, partners, and friends in the international community.
“They have offered to help us on what the Philippines requires to protect and secure our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction while ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. I have given them our requirements and we have been assured that they will be addressed,” Marcos Jr. further bared.
The President also said that he has given directives to the leaders of the Philippine national security and defense agencies who “made their considered recommendations” after exhaustive consultations.
(el Amigo/MNM)