MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced Wednesday (24 July 2024) that the government has provided over P43 million in assistance to those affected by heavy rains and flooding due to Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon, with an additional P2.88 billion in aid on standby.
In a statement on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Marcos detailed that P43.15 million has been distributed to more than 770,000 individuals in the Visayas and Mindanao over the past week.
Additionally, nearly 4,500 personnel and PHP2.88 billion in prepositioned aid are ready for search, rescue, and retrieval operations.
“I have instructed all concerned agencies to provide swift assistance to all those affected by Typhoon #CarinaPH and the enhanced Southwest Monsoon,” Marcos stated. He also plans to hold a situation briefing to ensure prompt and effective support.
Typhoon Carina and the monsoon will continue to bring heavy rains and strong winds to most parts of the country on Wednesday (24 July 2024).
According to the latest weather bureau bulletin, stormy weather and gale-force winds are expected over Batanes, currently under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 2. TCWS No. 1 has been issued for Babuyan Islands and parts of Cagayan and Ilocos Norte.
Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo reported that PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has deployed all available forces and resources to assist in the affected regions.
Police officers are positioned in evacuation centers in the National Capital Region, and mobility assets have been dispatched to provide further assistance.
(el Amigo/mnm)
MANILA — To ensure public safety and security during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA), the Quezon City government announced the suspension of classes and “Brigada Eskwela” activities on Monday (22 July 2024).
In a statement released on Sunday (21 July 2024), Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte declared that classes at all levels for both private and public schools in Quezon City, as well as the Brigada Eskwela activities in public elementary and high schools, will be suspended.
“The suspension aims to minimize the impact of road closures and anticipated heavy traffic on residents and students. Given this, every citizen of Quezon City is enjoined to listen to the SONA of the President of the Republic of the Philippines,” the statement read.
Additionally, the Quezon City government has issued a liquor ban starting at 12:01 AM on Monday and ending at 6 PM to maintain public order and reduce the risk of alcohol-related incidents during the SONA.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has also enforced a nationwide gun ban from 12:01 AM until 11:59 PM on Monday. In Metro Manila, this gun ban began at 12:01 AM on July 20 (Saturday) and will end at 12:01 AM on July 23 (Tuesday).
All Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residence (PTCFOR) are suspended within the National Capital Region during this period. Only members of the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other law enforcement agencies on official duty and in uniform will be allowed to carry firearms.
Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan emphasized that these measures aim to prevent firearm-related incidents and ensure public safety.
“The nationwide gun ban, city-wide liquor ban, and class suspension are crucial steps to ensure the safety and security of our citizens during the SONA. By implementing these measures, we aim to prevent any untoward incidents and maintain public order throughout the event. We urge everyone to cooperate and adhere to these regulations for the benefit of all,” Maranan stressed.
The annual SONA, held in the afternoon on the fourth Monday of July, will take place on July 22 this year. In the morning, the House of Representatives will open the Third Regular Session of the 19th Congress.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced that number coding will not be suspended on Monday during President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA).
MMDA Acting Chairman Romando Artes stated that the decision aims to prevent traffic congestion during the SONA.
“We will not suspend the number coding scheme because if we do, more vehicles will be on the roads, worsening traffic,” he said.
“Any additional vehicles will contribute to congestion,” he added.
Earlier, the MMDA released a traffic rerouting plan for SONA on July 22.
President Marcos previously mentioned that he has completed writing his speech for the third SONA and is currently fine-tuning it, a process expected to continue until Sunday.
The President also noted the challenge of addressing all the issues he wants to discuss, which might extend the duration of his speech.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Despite the absence of threats, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is not taking any chances as around 22,000 police personnel will be deployed to secure the third State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
This developed as the Batasang Pambansa was locked down starting Friday (19 July 2024) as part of the security measures.
“Ang nakikita po natin last time po mga 22,000 na-deploy, ganun pa rin po. Unless we see may mga threats po, there will be more,” PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil said.
“Right now, we don’t see any threats but ang sinasabi ko, go signal ko, of course, you have to see yung inconvenience (but what I am saying is we should look at possible inconveniences),” he stressed.
For her part, PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo on Friday (19 July 2024) said they also suggested to the Quezon City government that they allow pro-administration rallies around the Commission on Audit (COA) building area.
The PNP has recommended allowing anti-government protesters only up to Commonwealth Avenue-Tandang Sora Avenue during the SONA on Monday, July 22.
“Ang nire-recommend po natin sa LGU particularly dyan sa Quezon City ay bandang Tandang Sora na lamang po sila para masiguro natin yung mga daan na malapit sa Batasan Complex ay hindi po magkakaroon ng mabigat na daloy ng trapiko,” Fajardo said.
She added: “Ang mga pro-government (groups) naman po ay doon po natin sila ilalagay doon sa bandang COA po para medyo malayo po ang pagitan nila para maiwasan po ang tensyon.”
According to Fajardo, police personnel will ensure protesters stay in their designated areas in case they attempt to get near Batasan Complex.
House Secretary General Reginald “Reggie” Velasco said the President earlier instructed to accommodate everyone who wants to attend the SONA.
“There are a lot of people who would like to attend this SONA this July 22nd. And he (Marcos Jr.) said to me, accommodate all of them,’” Velasco said.
He added that more than 2,000 individuals from the government, the private sector, and non-government organizations (NGOs) have signified their desire to attend the SONA.
With the seating capacity of the session hall limited to 2,000, Velasco said the House of Representatives will add seats and open several function rooms to accommodate additional guests.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Days before the third State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey has bared that 60 percent of Filipinos said that government action is sufficient regarding the conduct of joint patrols and military exercises with allied nations and partners in the West Philippine Sea.
Since the assumption of Marcos Jr as the country’s Chief Executive, the Philippines has renewed stronger ties with the United States and other democratic nations in stark contrast with the previous Duterte administration which was closer to China.
The SWS survey — commissioned by the think tank Stratbase ADR Institute — polled 1,500 respondents from June 23 to July 1.
It also showed that 72 percent of Filipinos agreed that the government should create an alliance with other countries to defend the Philippines’ rights in the West Philippine Sea.
(el Amigo/mnm)
MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan at Malacañan Palace on Monday (08 July 2024).
The agreement enables mutual visits of Filipino and Japanese armed forces for training and joint exercises.
Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. signed the treaty documents in Marcos’s presence. The agreement awaits ratification by the legislative bodies of both nations to take effect.
President Marcos emphasized its significance by expressing satisfaction with the deal, while Kamikawa hailed it as a milestone in bilateral relations. Defense Minister Kihara Minoru pledged to strengthen defense cooperation further.
The Philippines, amidst regional tensions, has also secured defense agreements with the United States, Australia, and is pursuing one with France.
Defense Secretary Teodoro noted that the RAA elevates Philippine-Japanese relations, enhancing security alongside existing economic ties.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday (05 July 2024) emphasized the importance of ensuring the welfare of teachers during a recent statement regarding the Department of Education (DepEd).
“I emphasized to Senator Angara that the key to any successful DepEd program lies with our teachers. We must take care of them financially to support their families,” Marcos told reporters.
“We often overlook that teachers have families. They aren’t just educators; they have responsibilities at home. If they worry about their families, they can’t teach effectively,” the President added.
Marcos stressed that teachers need to be in a “good place” to focus on teaching effectively.
Senator Angara previously mentioned the possibility of salary increases for teachers under the new administration.
Additionally, Marcos stated plans for providing ongoing training to teachers as technology continues to evolve.
(el Amigo/mnm)
MANILA — The Private Sector Advisory Council for Tourism (PSAC-Tourism) has proposed an Executive Order (EO) for the swift implementation of nomad visas without tax incentives, aiming to attract long-stay foreign visitors.
Lucio Tan III, Vice Chairperson of LT Group, highlighted the urgency, noting that other Southeast Asian nations like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia are already benefiting from similar initiatives.
President Marcos endorsed this interim solution and instructed the Office of the Executive Secretary to draft the EO and identify a pilot country for the program. The PSAC-Tourism is optimistic that these efforts will enhance the tourism sector and promote travel to and within the Philippines.
Joji Gotianun Yap, President and CEO of Filinvest Development Corporation, emphasized the need for industry-specific training to prepare individuals for immediate employment in tourism-related jobs.
She noted that 80% of the tourism workforce holds Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) certifications, advocating for an increase in these certifications to meet industry demands.
President Marcos stressed the importance of aligning training programs with industry needs, highlighting the role of short-term courses in facilitating quick employment.
J. Prospero de Vera III, Chair of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), supported this approach, pointing out that top institutions offering degrees in Tourism and Hospitality Management are now integrating TESDA certifications, providing students with flexible educational pathways.
PSAC-Tourism is confident that these initiatives will position the Philippines as a prime tourist destination, enhance the quality of its tourism workforce, and drive economic growth.
In a related move to boost tourism, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced efforts to streamline e-visa processing for Indian nationals, recognizing India as a key source market.
The DOT expressed commitment to working with stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of e-visa reforms and strengthen cultural and economic ties with India.
The DOT has urged the Department of Foreign Affairs to actively support these e-visa reforms to create a more welcoming environment for Indian visitors and stimulate tourism growth.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to repatriate the remains of three overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who perished in a fire in Mangaf, southern Kuwait.
“We are working on the return of the three fatalities and are in touch with all their families, as per the President’s directive,” said DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac at a news forum on Saturday, June 15, 2024.
Out of the 11 OFWs affected by the fire in a building housing workers of a Kuwaiti construction company, three died, and two others are in critical condition in the hospital.
According to Cacdac, the remaining six are safe and unharmed, as they were “far away from the incident.”
He added that President Marcos has instructed the DMW to closely coordinate with the families of the two OFWs who are still in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a Kuwaiti hospital.
“Hopefully, they will recover very soon,” Cacdac said.
“As for the six who are safe, we are working on their repatriation. However, we are also giving them the option to continue working in Kuwait if they wish. Most of those who are safe were on duty at the time of the incident,” he added.
(el Amigo/mnm)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday (12 June 2024) called on Filipinos to demonstrate their patriotism and unity in defending the country’s territory, as the Philippines celebrated its 126th Independence Day.
“Our ancestors did not back down from war, and we will not shy away from our duty to defend our territory,” Marcos declared during the culmination of the week-long celebration of the nation’s liberation from colonial rule.
Marcos emphasized that the observance of Independence Day is not just a commemoration of the birth of the Philippine Republic but a reaffirmation of the commitment to uphold the legacy of the nation’s forefathers.
“Let us show the world that true power is not measured by strength or wealth but by the integrity of our cause, the fervor of our patriotism, and the unity of our people,” he said. “We will remain steadfast and unshaken.”
The President highlighted the importance of learning from history to build a better and freer future, urging Filipinos to take pride in their heritage.
“Always remember: History is the key to genuine freedom and a future full of hope, clarity, and prosperity,” he stated.
Marcos’ call to action comes amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea due to China’s continued aggression.
Sovereignty and security
National Security Adviser Eduardo Año reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and security amidst current global challenges.
Año reiterated that defending sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea is a top priority, stressing the importance of upholding the 2016 Arbitral Award and a rules-based international order to ensure maritime entitlements are respected.
“We are committed to safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty and freedoms, countering both internal and external threats to ensure the safety and well-being of every Filipino,” Año added.
(el Amigo/mnm)
MANILA – On the 126th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized that the spirit of freedom is alive in every Filipino’s daily fight against challenges and oppression.
In his Independence Day message Wednesday (12 June 2024), Marcos praised the resilience and dedication of farmers, fisherfolk, teachers, and soldiers, highlighting their role in sustaining the nation and protecting its freedom.
“The struggles remain, but the spirit of freedom endures in every Filipino’s day-to-day life,” he said. “We see it in the perseverance of our farmers and fisherfolk, the commitment of our teachers, and the determination of our soldiers.”
Marcos led the nationwide commemoration with a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at Rizal Park in Manila, with simultaneous events held at various historical sites across the country.
Reflecting on the historic proclamation in Kawit, Cavite, Marcos celebrated the enduring nationalism and unity of Filipinos.
“A century and a quarter later, the fervor of nationalism continues to burn brightly. We remain united, upholding the hard-earned liberty passed down by our ancestors,” he stated.
He called on Filipinos to work towards a “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines), aspiring for a brighter future. The theme of this year’s celebration, “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan” (Freedom. Future. History), highlights the commitment to a just, progressive, and independent nation.
The celebration included various activities at Quirino Grandstand, showcasing Filipino heritage and patriotism.
(el Amigo/mnm)
MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. arrived in Brunei Darussalam on Tuesday (28 May 2024) for a two-day state visit.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced that the airplane carrying President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and the official delegation landed in the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan at 10:01 a.m.
Marcos was warmly welcomed by Bruneian officials. During the visit, he is scheduled to have a general audience with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah Yang Di-Pertuan.
Additionally, President Marcos will meet with the Filipino community in Brunei at the BRIDEX International Convention Center. Brunei is home to approximately 20,000 Filipinos.
In his departure speech on Tuesday morning, President Marcos highlighted his intention to discuss defense and regional security with Sultan Bolkiah during their bilateral meeting. He also mentioned plans to explore mutually beneficial partnerships and collaborations. Furthermore, an agreement on tourism cooperation between the two countries is expected to be signed.
This visit marks 40 years of bilateral relations between the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. declared that the welfare of farmers will take precedence under “Bagong Pilipinas.”
“In the Bagong Pilipinas, we will prioritize the well-being of our farmers and liberate them from systems that perpetuate their plight,” Marcos stated during the distribution of electronic titles (e-titles) and Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) in Koronadal City.
The President emphasized that the New Agrarian Emancipation Act has relieved farmers of their debts.
“Through the New Agrarian Emancipation Act that we crafted with our legislators, we have erased decades of indebtedness burdening our farmers who were previously granted land by the government. There’s no need to worry anymore. We’ve wiped the slate clean,” the President asserted.
“This is one of our programs aimed at expediting the transformation and growth of our farmers. It will be key to the resurgence of our countrymen from poverty,” the President added.
The Chief Executive oversaw the distribution of 3,167 e-titles and 1,184 CLOAs to 4,271 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sarangani, and Sultan Kudarat.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has proclaimed July as Philippine Agriculturists’ Month through Proclamation No. 544, signed on May 10.
This annual observance aims to honor local agriculturists and emphasize the agricultural sector’s importance.
Key Objectives and Activities:
Engagement and Advocacy: The celebration will involve professional agriculturists in advocacy, policy research, and formulation.
Enterprise and Development: It will offer opportunities for enterprise-building, communications training, and community development.
Educational Role: The Manila School of Agriculture will play a significant role in providing both theoretical and practical education to farmers and overseers, promoting agricultural development through research and experimentation.
Coordination and Support:
The Department of Agriculture (DA), the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), and its Board of Agriculture will lead and supervise the observance.
Various government agencies, state universities, local government units, and the private sector are encouraged to support the celebration through necessary assistance.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to recognizing the vital role of agriculturists in the nation’s development and aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Philippine agriculture.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Politics make strange bedfellows, as an adage goes.
And barely a year before the 2025 midterm polls, political analysts saw the battle lines are now drawn between those supporting the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in a “tactical alliance” with the pro-US political forces and nationalists against China’s “creeping invasion” against the backers of former President Rodrigo Duterte who has remained unabashedly pro-China.
Dr. Edna Co, a former dean at the UP National College of Public Administration and Governance, cited the Liberal Party (LP), a former ruling party that was in the traditional opposition role during the Duterte administration, can find many points of unity with the Marcos administration, Co said, including on foreign policy.
She noted that the LP and the Marcos Jr. administration are aligned on issues like sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Maharlika NuMedia gathered that in preparation for the 2025 elections, the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas has been launched, primarily composed of the President’s party, the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), and his cousin Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez’s ruling party, the Lakas – Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD).
Co said members of the traditional opposition, including the Liberal Party, could end up on the administration’s senatorial slate in 2025 if there are points of unity with the newly announced Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas.
For his part, De La Salle University (DLSU) political science professor Anthony Lawrence Borja called the new alliance “a case of coalition-building in a weak party system.”
He pointed out that PBBM and Romualdez seem to be “separating the promise of Political Unity from the UniTeam, giving it a coalition that transcends the Marcos-Duterte alliance.”
Recently, Duterte renamed his party PDP and dropped the word “Laban.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed appreciation on Friday (10 May 2024) for France’s proposal to conduct joint maritime exercises with the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea, highlighting its significance in upholding regional stability.
Speaking to journalists in General Santos City, the President remarked on the importance of international assistance in safeguarding freedom of navigation in the West Philippine Sea, where instances of Chinese intrusion have been escalating.
France recently joined the Philippines and several other nations in the inaugural “multilateral maritime exercise,” which concluded earlier this week.
With territories in the South Pacific, France aims to bolster ties with the Philippines as a means to counter China’s expanding influence in the region.
While Beijing asserts sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea, including vast portions of the West Philippine Sea, an arbitral tribunal ruled in favor of Manila in 2016, rejecting China’s claims.
(Filed by el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos has provided aid to farmers and fishermen in Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato affected by the El Niño phenomenon.
Sultan Kudarat Gov. Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu and Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Mendoza received P50 million each from the President.
In his address, Marcos emphasized that the distribution of financial assistance and provision of various government services demonstrate the administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Filipinos under “Bagong Pilipinas.”
“My goal here today is not only to provide aid but also to promise that the government stands with you in combating the adverse effects of El Niño,” stated the Chief Executive.
“In the Bagong Pilipinas, the government is united to collectively overcome the adversities and challenges we face,” he added.
The Department of Agriculture also distributed seedlings, fertilizers, pumping equipment, and other agricultural machinery. Additionally, Speaker Martin Romualdez distributed 5 kilograms of rice to each resident.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced on Monday (06 May 2024) his anticipation for the Department of Education (DepEd) to return to the previous school calendar in the upcoming year.
The president expressed his directive to Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte to reconsider the former calendar, especially amidst the suspension of face-to-face classes due to the intense heatwave caused by El Niño.
“I’ve tasked Inday Sara to furnish me with a comprehensive plan because it seems we need not delay any longer; it appears to be increasingly necessary,” he informed reporters on the sidelines of the Government-Owned or-Controlled Corporations Day event in Pasay City.
“I don’t anticipate much opposition, particularly given the severity of the El Niño,” he added.
Previously, the education department had announced its intention to propose to Malacañang the conclusion of the 2024-2025 school year by March 2025, to revert to the old academic calendar in the subsequent school year.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Just like putting the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle together, House leaders on Sunday (28 April 2024) aired suspicion that those behind the deepfake audio that mimicked the voice of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. ordering the use of military force against China could have “originated somewhere in the south of the country.”
It can be recalled that in a supposed prayer rally in Tagum City last April 14, former Speaker and now Davao del Norte 1st District Representative Pantaleon “Bebot” Alvarez, a close ally of former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte, urged the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to withdraw support from their commander-in-chief Marcos Jr. ostensibly to prevent the escalating tension between China and the Philippines over the hotly contested West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“This bogus material (Deepfake audio may have) originated somewhere in the south of the country,” Deputy Speaker David “Jayjay” Suarez of Quezon province said, without providing evidence or details.
In a statement, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga pointed out that the spread of the deepfake audio, which he called a “malicious dissemination of fabricated information,” was a national security concern.
Gonzales called on the Department of Information and Communications and Technology (DICT) and its Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to investigate and that people behind the deepfake audio should be prosecuted.
For his part, Suarez said the above agencies should update the House of Representatives on the progress of their investigation into the audio and tap the private sector if necessary.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos are celebrating a remarkable milestone today, Wednesday (17 April 2024), as they commemorate their 31st wedding anniversary.
The First Couple, known for their enduring bond, took to social media to express their heartfelt wishes to each other on this special occasion.
In a touching gesture, President Marcos shared a collage of cherished moments on his Instagram account, accompanied by a heartfelt “Happy Anniversary” message dedicated to the First Lady.
“Thank you for a wonderful 31 years of marriage,” expressed the President in the caption of his post, encapsulating their journey together.
Not to be outdone in expressing love and gratitude, the First Lady also shared a collage of their shared memories captured in April 1993, April 2018, and April 2024, offering a glimpse into their journey over the years.
Their union, which began in Italy on April 17, 1993, blossomed from a chance encounter in New York in 1986, where the President met the First Lady, then a distinguished lawyer.
Together, they have been blessed with three sons: Senior House Deputy Majority Leader Sandro, Joseph Simon, and William Vincent.
(By el Amigo/MNM)