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)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is reported to be “doing well” during his mandatory isolation due to COVID-19, according to Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil on Wednesday (06 Dec 2023).
“He is doing well. He has a scheduled teleconference this afternoon,” Garafil stated.
Due to COVID-19, Marcos has postponed several engagements, including the National Decongestion Summit in Manila scheduled for this Wednesday. Instead, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin delivered his address.
Earlier, the PCO announced that the President tested positive for the virus.
This marks the third time that Marcos has contracted COVID-19, with the first instance in 2020 and the second in 2022.
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. commended on Tuesday (05 Dec 2023) the newly minted lawyers who successfully passed the 2023 Bar Examination.
Marcos urged them to contribute to a fair and equitable justice system.
“As you embark on your distinct journeys, stand resolute in upholding integrity and stay true to the principles that led you to the legal profession,” Marcos emphasized.
“Stay united in ensuring that every Filipino benefits from a justice system that is fair and equitable. Congratulations to the passers of #Bar2023!” added the President.
The Supreme Court unveiled the list of bar passers on Tuesday.
A total of 3,812 examinees successfully cleared the Bar exam.
Ephraim Bie from the University of Santo Tomas secured the top spot with an impressive score of 89.2625 percent.
Mark Josel Vivit from Ateneo De Manila claimed the second position, while Frances Camille Francisco from San Beda University secured the third spot with scores of 89.1250 percent and 88.9125 percent, respectively.
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has tested positive for COVID-19 but vows to fulfill his duties and responsibilities during his five-day isolation.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), doctors have advised Marcos to undergo mandatory five-day isolation.
“The President remains fit to carry out his duties and will continue his scheduled meetings via teleconference. Updates on his health will be provided as available,” PCO stated.
The President also urged Filipinos to take precautions to safeguard their health, such as getting vaccinated and wearing face masks in crowded places.
This marks the third time that Marcos has tested positive for COVID-19. He first contracted the virus in 2020 and again in 2022.
According to the Department of Health (DOH), the Philippines has recorded 1,340 new coronavirus cases from November 28 to December 4, 2023.
(AI/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has extended the term of Philippine National Police Chief General Benjamin Acorda Jr. until March 31, 2024, Malacañang announced on Monday (04 Dec 2023).
“I wish to inform you that, according to the provisions of existing laws, your service as Chief (Police General), Philippine National Police, is hereby extended until March 31, 2024,” read a letter sent by Marcos to Acorda.
Acorda celebrated his 56th birthday on Sunday, December 3, reaching the mandatory retirement age for PNP personnel. Marcos appointed him as PNP chief on April 24, 2023.
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abajos Jr. was also notified in a transmittal letter dated December 1, 2023, and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, regarding Acorda’s extension of service.
The PNP operates as an attached agency of the DILG.
Acorda, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Sambisig Class of 1991, has dedicated nearly 37 years of service to the PNP. He previously served as the director of the PNP Directorate for Intelligence before assuming the role of PNP Chief.
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is anticipated to grant pardons to almost 1,000 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) this Christmas season, according to Justice Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano on Friday (01 Dec 2023).
“This granting of pardon occurs annually, typically coinciding with the President’s birthday and Christmas. We compile a list for the Parole and Probation Administration, which is then forwarded to the Executive Secretary,” explained Clavano.
He mentioned that they expect a similar number of recipients as last year, nearly 1,000 PDLs.
While Clavano couldn’t confirm the exact number, he emphasized that there is no specific priority list.
“Qualification is the key factor. Whether a person qualifies for pardon, parole, or probation, those are the criteria for inclusion. We do not prioritize individuals; it’s about their eligibility.”
Clavano further clarified, “We consider factors such as age, disabilities, or severe illness. Elderly individuals or those with health issues are eligible for a pardon, as detaining them would lack humanitarian considerations and be detrimental to their well-being.”
(AI/MNM)
CLIMATE ADAPTATION. Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda (right) receives the People’s Survival Fund (PSF) from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during the ceremonial turnover of a PHP118.86 million grant, at the President’s Hall of Malacañan Palace in Manila on Wednesday (Nov. 29, 2023). In a statement, Agda pledged to use the fund to address the city’s flooding problem. (Photo courtesy of Borongan City government)
MANILA — In a significant step towards fortifying its resilience against floods, Borongan City is set to utilize the P118.86 million grant received from the People’s Survival Fund (PSF) for comprehensive flood control measures and supporting reforestation initiatives.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally led the turnover of the financial grant to Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda in a ceremony held at Malacañang Palace on Wednesday (29 Nov 2023).
The allocated funds are earmarked for the “Reinforcement of Lo-om River Flood Protection System and Redevelopment for Resilient Communities and Livelihood” project, a proposal presented by the city government to the PSF in July. The project aims to enhance flood control measures along the Lo-om River and contribute to reforestation efforts in the region.
Borongan City Mayor Agda expressed gratitude for the approval and subsequent turnover of the fund, emphasizing its pivotal role in advancing the city’s resilience in the face of environmental challenges, particularly floods.
Prior to approval, the city’s proposal underwent meticulous assessments by the PSF board secretariat and board member agencies to ensure alignment with climate-responsive standards. Witnessing the ceremonial turnover were notable figures including Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, and Climate Change Commission Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera.
Established by Republic Act 10174, the PSF aims to provide financial support to local government units for implementing climate change adaptation projects. Borongan City’s strategic allocation of these funds reflects a proactive approach to address environmental concerns and enhance the overall well-being of its communities.
(I Am/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa expressed the need to be prepared after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. mentioned that the government is exploring the possibility of the Philippines rejoining the International Criminal Court (ICC).
“I feel I should be ready for any eventuality because the political situation in the Philippines is very fluid. So I have to be prepared—ready to react, ready to speak, ready to sing, ready to dance. Just ready for whatever comes our way,” Dela Rosa stated.
The former Philippine National Police chief affirmed his readiness to face the Philippine court.
“If it’s a foreign body, I am not willing, but it’s not an indication that I’ll abandon you. You might say, ‘Bato is going to run away.’ I won’t leave. If our court says, ‘Bato, face this, come to us,’ then I will face it,” he asserted.
Dela Rosa, who served as the PNP chief during the implementation of the war on drugs under former President Rodrigo Duterte, remains confident about navigating through the ICC probe into matters related to the war on drugs.
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has indicated that the potential return of the Philippines to the International Criminal Court (ICC) is currently under consideration.
“Should we return under the fold of the ICC? So that is again under study. So we’ll just keep looking at it and see what our options are,” Marcos stated.
This was Marcos’s response to questions regarding the request of House members for the government to cooperate with the ICC’s investigation into the war on drugs.
“They (lawmakers) are just expressing or manifesting the sense of the House that perhaps it is time to allow or to cooperate with the ICC investigations,” Marcos explained.
Three years prior to the resumption of the drug war investigation, the Philippines withdrew from the International Criminal Court in 2019.
“If you are talking about the jurisdiction of the ICC, especially since we withdrew from the Rome Statute a few years back, that brings into question whether or not this is actually possible,” Marcos remarked.
However, he emphasized that foreign entities have no right to decide who should be investigated or arrested.
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has directed government agencies to accelerate the distribution of relief goods and assistance to the victims of the floods in Northern and Eastern Samar.
During his visit to the province, Marcos met with officials to oversee the situation and the government’s preparations.
In a briefing, Marcos emphasized that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) should ensure all roads are passable, facilitating the swift distribution of food packs and relief goods to flood victims.
“Once the public works teams can access the area, immediate repairs should be conducted to allow larger vehicles to enter. Once the roads are passable, all efforts can be focused on necessary repairs,” stated Marcos on Thursday morning.
“We are doing everything we can, but we need to collaborate with those in evacuation centers and even those still in their homes. We must ensure they receive the necessary food packs and an adequate water supply,” added the President.
Secretary Rex Gatchalian of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported that they have prepared over 100,000 food packs for distribution to affected families in Eastern and Northern Samar.
(ai/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Imee Marcos on Wednesday said her brother, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., and Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio maintain an amicable relationship.
“In my opinion, between my brother, myself, our president, and our vice president, I believe things are in order. The challenge lies in external disruptions,” she commented.
“The key figures—my brother, myself, VP Sara Duterte, and PRRD (former President Rodrigo Duterte)—I think are not problematic. It’s others who are causing disturbances. I don’t know,” Marcos added.
Addressing Duterte-Carpio’s impeachment allegations, the senator emphasized the need to prioritize other pressing issues in the country.
“I hope they have compassion for the Philippines,” Marcos expressed.
“We have numerous problems. Have mercy on the administration, have mercy on Filipinos struggling to afford sufficient food, and dealing with high costs, especially as Christmas approaches. Let’s be ashamed as Filipinos,” she added.
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has called on government agencies to stay alert for potential aftershocks following the recent 6.8 magnitude earthquake in Davao Occidental.
Marcos emphasized the importance of ongoing vigilance, noting that casualties can occur in the aftermath of the initial earthquake.
“You seem to have things well in hand. Let’s just remain vigilant. Let’s keep watching. We must pay attention to aftershocks because sometimes casualties happen during aftershocks,” Marcos stated during a meeting with government officials.
The President directed government officials to continue relief operations for affected families.
Additionally, Marcos issued orders to safeguard citizens in earthquake-affected areas, highlighting concerns about the spread of “fake news” regarding a potential tsunami. He emphasized the need for increased vigilance, stating, “Actually, that’s a valid concern during earthquakes. If there was going to be any movement from the sea, it would have happened already because the epicenter is not far. It’s very close.”
“About aftershocks, let’s keep watching. Let’s keep waiting. Let’s not pull our people out just yet until things subside, to ensure that no one gets injured or loses their life,” the Chief Executive added.
Present during the meeting were Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, Social Welfare Undersecretary Edu Punay, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, and other government officials.
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has addressed the rumors surrounding the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, clarifying that he and his allies are not pursuing such actions.
Marcos dismissed the allegations, stating, “Lahat naman kami merong ganyan [‘yung impeachment rumors]. There will always be an element that will want to change the results of an election. Of course, binabantayan namin ng mabuti because we don’t want her to be impeached. She does not deserve to be impeached,” Marcos said.
He emphasized that the rumors are part of a broader trend of attempting to overturn election results based on personal preferences.
“It’s just a continuation of the thinking na, ‘Basta ayaw namin dyan, tanggalin natin.’ Wala naman sigurong dahilan kung hindi lang ayaw sa amin. That is not a reason to be impeached,” he continued.
Marcos also highlighted his amicable relationship with the Vice President, stating, “On a very personal level, we get along very well.” He acknowledged their differences but noted that they also share similarities in many aspects.
Earlier, House Speaker Martin Romualdez denied the impeachment rumors, stating, “I’m not aware of anything… nothing filed, no news of that.”
(ai/mnm)
LOS ANGELES, USA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. asserted on Saturday that he harbors no obligation to forgive those responsible for ousting his father, the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
During an interview with the Philippine media delegation, before he departed for Los Angeles, Marcos was questioned about whether he had forgiven the individuals who played a role in his family’s exile to Hawaii.
“I don’t feel the need to forgive them; I never held them responsible… that’s the bottom line,” Marcos responded.
“I hope by now you have realized that I don’t take things personally. They don’t require my forgiveness; if they seek it, I am willing to grant it,” he added.
Marcos went on to elaborate that the two factions held divergent beliefs, leading to certain outcomes.
“They don’t need my forgiveness. If this is what they believed they had to do, our thoughts and beliefs just didn’t align. I would defend my convictions, and they fought for theirs. That’s the result, and that’s how it played out,” said Marcos.
In 1986, Marcos Sr. was ousted from power during the bloodless EDSA People Power Revolution.
The Marcos family was compelled to leave the country, seeking refuge in Honolulu, Hawaii, aboard a US Air Force aircraft.
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has officially designated November 3 to 9 as the annual Philippine Criminology Week.
The proclamation aims to acknowledge the vital role of the criminology profession in the Philippines.
According to Marcos, recognizing the contributions of Filipino Criminologists is essential for national security and honors those who have dedicated themselves to their profession, significantly contributing to the nation’s development, particularly in the realms of public safety, peace, and order. Proclamation No. 397, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, outlines these sentiments.
The Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC)’s Professional Regulatory Board of Criminology is entrusted with leading the celebration of Philippine Criminology Profession Week. The board is responsible for organizing various projects, programs, and events for the annual celebration.
Furthermore, all national government instrumentalities and agencies, as well as those of a similar nature, are encouraged to actively participate in and support the successful execution of Proclamation No. 397.
(ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
FOLLOWING THE STATEMENT of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia assured him that the settlement of the unpaid salaries of some 10,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) was already being processed, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) officer-in-charge Hans Leo Cacdac on Wednesday said they will continue following up its release.
To recall, in November last year, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman committed to allocate some 2 billion riyals for the unpaid salaries of some 10,000 overseas Filipinos employed by construction companies that declared bankruptcy in 2015 and 2016.
“From our talks with our own counterparts there…we were also informed that the Ministry of Finance is on board to take care of the financial matters because this would involve disbursement of funds,” Cacdac disclosed when interviewed on CNN Philippines.
Migrante Philippines chair Arman Hernando had proposed that the government advance the unpaid salaries while awaiting the money transfer from the Saudi government.
“Kung talagang seryoso sila na ibigay na ‘yung unpaid salaries ng mga Saudi OFWs – matagal na nga po naming panawagan diyan eh – abonohan muna nila…. Sinasabi ni Pangulong Marcos na pinahahalagahan niya ang sakripisyo ng ating mga OFWs. Eh di unahin na nilang bayaran, at i-reimburse na lang nila kapag nagbayad ang Saudi Arabia sa kanila,” Hernando said earlier.
Last March, the DMW said it would provide P10,000 in aid to each worker waiting for the Saudi government to fulfill its promise.
Maharlika NuMedia learned that the promised funding to the OFWs would come from the DMW which has a budget of P15.8 billion for 2023 and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
“It’s just hard to pin down a timeline at this point because the Saudi processes still continue. In principle, we respect the Saudi processes, and at the same time we’ll continue to persist in terms of coordination and follow-ups with the Saudi government,” Cacdac explained.
(ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
ACKNOWLEDGING THE FEAT of his cousin President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in facilitating the signing of four agreements totaling around $4.26 billion between Saudi and Filipino businessmen, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Saturday said the deal promises to have a significant impact on the Philippine economy and the lives of Filipinos.
The four (4) investment agreements are accordingly expected to generate more than 15,000 jobs for Filipinos.
“The signing of these agreements which promises a far-reaching impact on the Philippine economy and on the lives of our workers is a monumental achievement of President Marcos,” said Romualdez, who accompanied PBBM on the trip to Saudi Arabia.
On Friday, October 20, the House Speaker disclosed that the signed agreements were between the Al-Jeer Human Resources Company (ARCO) and the Association of Philippine Licensed Agencies for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (US $3.765 billion); Al Rushaid Petroleum Investment Company and Samsung Engineering NEC Co. Ltd., and Filipino firm EEI Corporation (US $120 million); Maharah Human Resources Company of Saudi and Filipino firms Staffhouse International Resources Corporation and E-GMP International Corporation (US $191 million each).
“This is the fruit of his tireless efforts in fostering economic ties with our partners in the international community and exemplifies his commitment to securing a brighter future for the Filipino people in line with his vision for a prosperous and globally competitive Philippines,” Romualdez pointed out.
He also said the House of Representatives under his leadership “will remain steadfast in its support of the administration’s initiatives to ensure that the benefits are felt by all Filipinos.”
“In a time when job creation and economic growth are paramount, this achievement will provide invaluable opportunities for our workforce, particularly for our overseas Filipino workers,” Romualdez stressed. (ai/mnm)