By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has pledged that no Filipino will go hungry under the “Bagong Pilipinas” initiative, emphasizing a revitalized agriculture sector.
“Our collective efforts to develop the agriculture sector are just one of the key steps towards building a New Philippines—where no one goes hungry, and everyone actively contributes to a more prosperous future,” he stated during his speech at the ceremonial palay harvesting and distribution of various assistance in Pampanga.
Marcos assured farmers of government support in all their endeavors, emphasizing that every seed they plant lays the foundation for a robust and bountiful future.
The President also expressed gratitude to the farmers for their hard work and dedication.
“To our beloved farmers, your dedication, sacrifices, and perseverance truly serve as inspiration to us all. Your hands, diligently cultivating the land you sow, breathe life and vitality into our nation,” he remarked.
(el amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. told the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Vietnam that their presence in the southeast Asian country has been showing the strong Philippine-Vietnam relations.
“Isang patunay ng malapit na ugnayan ng ating dalawang bansa ay ang tinatawag nating people-to-people connections. At kayo, ang mga Pilipino na nandito sa Vietnam, ang patunay kung gaano kalapit ang ating mga bansa,” Marcos said during a meeting with the Filipino community in Vietnam.
“Kaya’t ako’y lubos na nagpapasalamat sa inyong lahat dahil napapadali ang aking trabaho dahil sa magandang reputasyon na itinaguyod niyo sa pamamagitan ng inyong sipag at tiyaga dito sa Vietnam.”
The President also expressed his gratitude and said that OFWs have won admiration in different parts of the world, adding he that won’t be surprised if Vietnamese leaders also heaped praises on their performance.
The Philippines and Vietnam established formal diplomatic relations on July 12, 1976, with ties now spanning 47 years.
The two countries elevated international relations to a strategic partnership in 2015.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will be leaving the country next week for a state visit to Vietnam as he was invited by Vietnam President Võ Văn Thưởng.
The state visit will be from January 29 to 30.
Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said that the President will meet with Vietnam leaders namely President Thoung, His Excellency Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of Vietnam, and His Excellency Vuong Dinh Hue, Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam.
“[D]iscussion on the multi-faceted relationship and ways of exploring deepening cooperation across different fronts will be expected,” Daza said.
“The President is also expected to meet with business sectors to promote trade and investment relations between the Philippines and Vietnam,” she added.
Also, Marcos will meet with the Filipino community, where he will highlight the Philippines’ friendly relations with Vietnam, as well as the contribution of the community in promoting a positive image of the Philippines in the country.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Following the statement of President Ferdinand “Bongbong ” R. Marcos Jr. that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has no jurisdiction in the Philippines and is a threat to the country’s sovereignty, the opposition Liberal Party of the Philippines (LP) has lamented that it has weakened the nation’s credibility as a champion of democracy.
The President also instructed police personnel and local government units (LGUs) not to cooperate with the ICC representatives.
“By obstructing the ICC’s investigation, the administration betrays its sworn duty to uphold the rule of law and protect its citizens from human rights abuses,” the LP said in a statement on Wednesday (January 24).
The once ruling party noted that PBBM’s pronouncement disregards the legitimate concerns of the families of thousands allegedly killed in the anti-illegal drugs campaign of the previous Duterte administration.
“This move also further weakens the Philippines’ credibility as a champion of democracy and the principles of international law, jeopardizing vital relationships with allies and partners,” the LP further said.
It added that the ICC’s drug war probe provides an opportunity for an independent and impartial investigation of a complex and sensitive issue.
“By shutting the door on the ICC, the government hinders the possibility of closure for victims’ families and impedes genuine accountability for potential human rights violations,” the LP lamented.
However, despite Marcos Jr.’s decision, the LP still expressed hope that the ICC would “expeditiously complete its investigation and lead to a rightful conclusion and the long-awaited accountability for all involved.”
“Paninindigan sa katarungan at karapatang pantao ang pundasyon ng isang responsable at mapagkakatiwalaang gobyerno. Nananawagan kami sa mga kapwa namin Pilipino na patuloy na magmatyag at tumindig para sa katotohanan, katarungan, at pananagutan,” the LP concluded.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged Señor Sto. Niño devotees on Sunday (21 Jan 2024) to embody their faith by spreading the messages of hope, love, and joy to others.
Expressing heartfelt greetings to the people of Cebu City during the Sinulog Festival, an annual celebration of devotion to the Holy Child, Señor Sto. Niño, President Marcos encouraged millions of devotees to translate their faith into tangible actions.
He emphasized the importance of praying for spiritual strength to navigate challenges.
Addressing devotees, the President stated, “I urge you to translate your faith into action so that you may spread the message of hope, love, and joy to others. Most importantly, always pray for spiritual strength and fortitude to overcome whatever challenges and difficulties that may lie ahead.”
Looking ahead, President Marcos called for unity with his administration to seize opportunities in the New Year. He also appealed to devotees to collaborate in fostering socio-economic growth and advancing the thriving industry of Cebu.
Encouraging adherence to faith and the “bayanihan” spirit, the President urged devotees to remain conscious of their Catholic and social obligations, working towards a shared destiny for a “Bagong Pilipinas” that promises a better and more abundant life for all Filipinos.
President Marcos highlighted the significance of the Sinulog Festival, describing it as one of the grandest and most colorful festivities in the Philippines.
He emphasized that the festival serves as an expression of profound gratitude for the miracles, blessings, and deliverances bestowed upon Filipinos in the past year.
Additionally, it provides a platform for prayers for good health, protection, and prosperity in the coming year.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In an unprecedented move, China has filed a diplomatic protest – before the Philippine embassies in Beijing and Manila – over President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s congratulatory message to Taiwan’s president-elect Dr. Lai Ching-te.
It was not immediately known if this was the first that China filed a diplomatic protest against the Philippines. Still, since Marcos Jr. assumed power in June 2022, the Philippines has filed at least 130 protests against China owing to the latter’s alleged encroachment on PH’s exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea.
“President Marcos is the only head of State to congratulate Lai among 182 countries which established diplomatic relations with China,” the Chinese Embassy in Manila noted on Wednesday.
In a statement, the embassy spokesman said Marcos’ remarks “seriously violate the ‘One China’ principle, and constitute an act of gross interference in China’s internal affairs.”
China Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesman Mao Ning also disclosed that Assistant Foreign Minister Nong Rong on Tuesday (January 16) summoned the Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz “to lodge serious démarche and urge the Philippines to present a responsible response to China.”
Démarche is a political step or initiative.
“We suggest President Marcos read more to develop a proper understanding of the ins and outs of the Taiwan question and come to a right conclusion,” Mao said in a briefing.
The Chinese embassy also stressed: “China strongly opposes such remarks, and has made immediate and solemn démarches to the Philippines from both Beijing and Manila.”
“There is but one China in the world. Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory, and the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China,” it emphasized.
(El Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — For five years, the Philippines can be assured of a steady supply of rice from Vietnam as President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on the country’s behalf will formally sign a rice deal with Vietnam.
This was disclosed on Tuesday (16 Jan 2024) by Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel saying the agreement will be forged when the Chief Executive travels to Vietnam by the end of January.
“Pagdating ng trip this coming end of January, state visit to Vietnam, mapipirmahan na. We have the working draft already. It’s almost done,” Tiu Laurel said.
He added that PBBM had instructed agriculture officials to draft a memorandum of agreement during an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meeting in Japan, Tiu Laurel said in a press conference in Malacañang.
“It guarantees that they will be supplying us rice continuously even sa calamity situations,” the Agriculture Department chief said.
It was learned that Marcos Jr. and Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh first agreed on the cooperation deal on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Indonesia last year.
“Our two countries will conclude an inter-government agreement on rice trade so that our rice export to the Philippines will ensure food security in the Philippines,” the Vietnamese leader then told Marcos Jr.
He stressed: “We look forward to having a stable framework of cooperation on rice trade for a long period of at least 5 years… With that, we can ensure our production and you can also ensure imports from Vietnam.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — A recent survey conducted by OCTA Research indicates that 61 percent of Filipinos support President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s response to the ongoing dispute between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The fourth quarter Tugon ng Masa Survey, conducted from December 10 to 14, shows a notable increase from the third quarter, with three percentage points higher approval.
Only eight percent of respondents disagreed with the government’s approach, while 31 percent remained undecided on the matter.
The National Capital Region recorded the highest approval rating at 67 percent, while Mindanao had the lowest at 52 percent.
Additionally, respondents from socioeconomic class D showed the highest agreement, with 64 percent supporting the government’s stance.
The survey, with 1,200 respondents, carries a margin of error of plus or minus three percent.
(By el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Renowned social critic Randy David, recognized for his rationality and objectivity, has cast uncertainty regarding whether President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. or his cousin, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, was involved in the “EDSA-pwera” commercial promoting charter change (Cha-Cha), which debuted on primetime television last week in Manila.
“I doubt that President Marcos or his first cousin Speaker Martin Romualdez would wish to premise a productive discussion on Charter change on the supposed failures of Edsa. They are back in power; the last thing they need is to open old wounds and awaken dormant animosities. That advertisement does them a disservice; I don’t believe they’re behind it,” David wrote in his January 14 column for the Philippine Daily Inquirer.
The former chairman of the Bukluran sa Ikauunlad ng Sosyalistang Isip at Gawa (BISIG) who is also a respected long-time sociology professor at the University of the Philippines Diliman noted that Marcos Jr. “knew better than to demean Edsa in his carefully planned route to the presidency.”
BISIG was a loose socialist coalition in the late ’80s composed of former national democrats, ex-social democrats, and remnants of the pro-Soviet 1930 Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas (PKP).
It was disbanded sometime in the ’90s, with then former soc-dem BISIG Secretary General Ronald Llamas forming the Akbayan party-list.
David pointed out that the commercial only sparked discussions on the significance of the 1986 People Power Revolution, instead of making new arguments on why the 1987 Constitution should be amended.
“Why would he (PBBM) risk antagonizing them by blaming the post-Marcos Constitution for the country’s supposed stagnation?” David asked.
David further noted that Marcos Jr. would know better than to antagonize those who still find the People Power Revolution significant considering his efforts to differentiate himself from former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.
He stressed that any attempt for Cha-Cha —particularly the proposed shift to a parliamentary system— should be premised on the desire to improve people’s lives instead of personal motivations.
“Whatever the justification for the shift may be, it should never be to merely accommodate the ambitions of anyone who is not electable nationally. By the same token, opposition to a parliamentary shift must not be motivated by a mere wish to ensure that a ‘strong’ presumptive candidate is not denied the presidency in 2028,” David concluded.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. presided over the swearing-in ceremony of businessman Eduardo Aliño as the new Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Administrator on Saturday (13 Jan 2024).
Aliño takes over from Jonathan Tan, who concurrently took his oath as Undersecretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).
Aliño currently serves as the Chairman of the Subic Bay Yacht Club and holds the positions of President and Chairman of the S.T.A.R. Group of Companies. Additionally, he is the President and Chairman of Subic Bay Freeport Grain Terminal Services, Inc. and Mega Equipment International Corp., among other roles.
Tan resigned from his post after eight months of service at SBMA.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. formally introduced Friday (12 Jan 2024) Lipa Congressman Ralph Recto as the new Secretary of the Department of Finance during a ceremony held in Malacañang Palace.
“A gentleman who, I believe, needs little introduction, having been in public service since our days as young congressmen together—Secretary Ralph Recto for the Department of Finance,” Marcos stated.
Recto was also presented as the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs, marking his initiation into the Marcos administration.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri expressed his approval of Recto’s appointment earlier, saying, “I do not doubt that he will excel as Finance Secretary, guiding the country towards greater economic prosperity.”
Recto assumes the role, succeeding Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is set to embark on a visit to Berlin, Germany, in March 2024.
The announcement came during a courtesy call from German Federal Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock to Malacañang Palace, where Marcos disclosed his plans for the visit on March 12.
“We have been in contact with each other over the past few months, working to arrange this visit to Germany. I believe we have finally managed, with your embassy’s staff – we’ve been driving them a little crazy,” Marcos shared.
Despite a few adjustments in the schedule due to unforeseen circumstances, Marcos expressed confidence in the March 12 date. “We keep moving things because events have been coming up. But I think we have settled on the March 12th date. So I can commit to that now,” he added.
Anticipating significant developments between the two nations, the President remarked, “I’m sure that, after the visit to Berlin, many things will develop. We will be requiring your presence here more and more,” highlighting the strengthening ties between the Philippines and Germany.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Imee Marcos expressed her profound support for the proposed discussion between President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and former President Rodrigo Duterte regarding the investigation involving Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI).
“Now is the time! As I’ve mentioned, who’s afraid of SMNI? Or perhaps, who’s afraid of [former] President Duterte? He is a revered and beloved leader whose wise counsel will always be beneficial to the country,” remarked Senator Marcos.
“There’s nothing wrong with listening to good advice, especially when it comes from a former President,” the lady lawmaker added.
Earlier, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) stated that President Marcos is always available to meet with Duterte.
“President Marcos is consistently available to former President Duterte. The President will contact him shortly to inquire about his interest in a meeting,” stated Communications Secretary Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has called on Filipinos to deepen their connection with God and become agents of peace, unity, and compassion for their fellowmen and the country.
Marcos made this statement as he joined the Catholic faithful in celebrating the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
The President emphasized that the Feast of the Black Nazarene is a splendid celebration of the Almighty’s enduring mercy and boundless love bestowed upon everyone.
“Beyond the extraordinary expressions of reverence displayed during this event, the festivities showcase the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who willingly offered Himself to make us whole once more,” Marcos stated.
Marcos also urged the faithful to be mindful of the virtue of embracing one’s suffering, as it is during those moments of hardship that individuals are allowed to undergo renewal and spiritual transformation.
“By working through our struggles and difficulties, we discover our inner strength and resolve, emerging from the pits of darkness and despair with a renewed sense of hope and purpose,” the Chief Executive expressed.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has officially declared January 9 (Tuesday) as a special non-working holiday in Manila in conjunction with the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
In a proclamation signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, it was stated, “It is but fitting and proper that the people of the City of Manila be given a full opportunity to participate in the occasion and enjoy the celebration.”
The City of Manila is set to observe the Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9, and preparations are underway to ensure a safe and secure celebration.
A deployment of 15,200 police personnel will be in place during the feast to safeguard the devotees participating in the mass and procession.
Preemptively addressing potential safety concerns, the Philippine National Police (PNP) also said certain areas along the route of Traslacion 2024 in Manila will be designated as “no-fly zones” for drones.
(El Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has issued Executive Order No. 1, mandating the creation of the Special Committee on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) Affairs.
In the executive order, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Marcos recognized the imperative to reinforce the Department of Interiors and Publics (DIP) and reconstitute its Inter-Agency Committee to ensure the country’s ongoing compliance with its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The President emphasized that establishing this committee is crucial for strengthening existing mechanisms aimed at addressing persistent discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community.
The Committee will be co-chaired by the Secretaries of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), with the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) serving as Vice Chair.
The Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary will also be a member, alongside the Secretaries of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Health (DOH), as well as the chairpersons of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Special Committee on LGBTQIA+ Affairs.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President has exercised his veto power on two provisions in the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) as confirmed by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
The vetoed provisions concern the Department of Justice (DOJ) revolving fund and the Implementation of the National Government’s Career Executive Service Development Program (NGCESDP).
In a letter dated December 20 addressed to House Speaker Martin Romualdez and other House members, Marcos explained his decision regarding the DOJ revolving fund, stating, “Under my constitutional mandate to ensure that laws are faithfully executed, I am obliged to veto Department of Justice (DOJ)-Office of the Secretary (OSEC), Special Provision No. 1, ‘DOJ Revolving Fund,’ Volume I-A, page 1119, since there is no law which authorizes the DOJ to establish a revolving fund for the purpose indicated therein.”
He emphasized that the proposed service fees were intended to be imposed on complaints and affidavits filed with the National Prosecution Service, and petitions for review filed before the DOJ. However, Marcos pointed out that these pleadings are submitted to the agencies under their jurisdiction vested by law, and the charges are not from business-type activities within the contemplation of the General Provision on Revolving Funds in the GAA.
Citing a Supreme Court decision, Marcos asserted that inappropriate provisions are unconstitutional and that provisions intended to amend other laws have no place in an appropriations bill.
The President also vetoed Section 38 under the General Provisions, concerning the “Implementation of National Government’s Career Executive Service Development Program.” He argued that this section does not relate to any specific appropriation in the budget.
According to Marcos, Presidential Decree (PD) No. 336 has already defined the functions of the Career Executive Service Board (CESB) as the governing body of the Career Executive Service (CES).
He noted that the Development Academy of the Philippines is tasked with preparing a CES program appropriate and necessary for the organization and operation of the CES, in consultation with the CESB, and initiating and continuing to implement the program.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — As promised, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. officially signed the 2024 national budget into law, totaling P5.76 trillion on Wednesday (20 Dec 2023).
In his address, President Marcos emphasized that the 2024 General Appropriations Act represents an “annual social contract with taxpayers,” assuring them that their faithful contributions will be fully reinvested.
He stated, “It details our battle plan in combating poverty and illiteracy, challenging the notion that the budget merely covers bureaucratic expenses. Instead, it allocates funds to address the fundamental issues our nation must overcome.”
President Marcos highlighted that the 2024 national budget aims to enhance both the physical and human capital of the nation. He expressed optimism that the allocated expenditures will bring about positive transformations in the lives of Filipinos and contribute to the nation’s progress.
However, President Marcos acknowledged that the 2024 budget might fall short of fully financing the ambitious goals his administration has set for the nation. He remarked, “I wish we could address our infrastructure backlog within a single budget cycle. I wish we had unlimited revenues to unlock our country’s vast potential.”
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In response to the July 25 State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has hailed the House of Representatives for passing on third and final reading a measure that will create the Department of Water Resources (DWR) to establish the national water resource management framework.
On Wednesday, December 13, Maharlika NuMedia learned that the House of Representatives, voting 254 in favor and three against, approved the proposed National Water Resources Act (House Bill 9663) creating the DWR that would be the primary agency responsible for the thorough and unified identification and mapping of all water resources and planning, policy creation, and management.
“Preserving water is a priority of the administration of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. We need to manage our water resources properly,” Romualdez said.
He noted that the creation of DWR was tackled during the President’s SONA last July 25.
The bill was also included in the priorities of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).
Romualdez underscored the importance of creating the DWR because it will help address urban flooding issues by providing a framework for stormwater and drainage services.
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced on Saturday (09 Dec 2023) that the mandatory isolation of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. due to COVID-19 is scheduled to conclude on Sunday. This follows a positive test for the virus a few days ago.
According to the PCO, Marcos is on the path to recovery, having been free from cough, nasal congestion, and fever for the past 24 hours.
The statement highlighted that all other medical findings were unremarkable, leading to the final diagnosis of “COVID-19, Recovered.”
Medical professionals closely monitored the President throughout the entire home isolation period.
In light of his recovery, Marcos’ doctor has recommended that he continue wearing a face mask for the next 10 days during public engagements as a precaution.
(ai/mnm)