By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Saying that efforts in the House of Representatives to amend the 37-year-old Constitution to make the Philippines more friendly to foreign investments, Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo 1st District Representative Janette Garin has expressed confidence that if passed by both houses of Congress and approved in a plebiscite, this will perk up the country’s economy and improve the quality of lives of Filipinos.
Garin pointed out that on March 29, the US Trade Representative cited foreign ownership limitations in the Philippines as one of the barriers to trade and investments, while the Milken Institute’s Global Opportunity Index (GOI) report for 2024 said the country ranked 91st out of 130 nations when it comes to attractiveness to foreign investors due to financial access.
“Kasi iyan nga, kitang-kita na may problema ang Constitution ng Pilipinas. Ang nagiging hadlang para magtake-off tayo ay ang ating sariling Constitution. Natural iyan, kasi walang perpekto. So inaamin ngayon iyan pero hindi naiintindihan ng tao sa ibaba,” the Ilongga lady solon said on Monday (01 April 2024) in a press conference.
Asked whether economic amendments as contained in Resolution of Both Houses No. 7 (RBH 7) recently approved on final reading in the House of Representatives can make the Philippines more “investment-friendly,” Garin responded enthusiastically with, “Definitely!”
She stressed that one of the concerns of foreign investors is not being able to own land in the Philippines because the 1987 Constitution prohibits it.
“So, kung ikaw ay investor na inutang mo ang bilyong-bilyong capital, kunyari sabihin na natin, kuryente, tubig or internet connectivity. Eh kung ang paglalagyan mo ng iyong power plant, may that be renewable energy or not, kung iyung lupa hindi sa iyo, ano ang mangyayari duon sa investment mo?” Garin asked.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — The so-called ‘Young Guns’ of the House of Representatives have strongly assailed the recent Pulse Asia survey on Charter amendments, citing concerns about the use of biased and leading questions that may have influenced the results.
On Sunday (31 March 2024), House Assistant Majority Leaders Jil Bongalon of Ako Bicol Party-list, Paolo Ortega V of La Union, and Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur noted that the survey questions appeared to conflate various aspects of constitutional reform, potentially leading to confusion among respondents.
“The wording of the questions used by Pulse Asia seemed designed to lead respondents towards a particular viewpoint on Charter amendments,” Bongalon quipped.
As a lawyer, Bongalon specifically criticized Pulse Asia for including in the survey what it termed as proposed amendments, which do not align with those currently under discussion in Congress.
For his part, Ortega said the survey also contained a biased question regarding “allowing foreign individuals and companies to exploit Philippine natural resources.”
“The survey questions, particularly those addressing contentious issues such as term extension, foreign exploitation of natural resources, and a shift from a presidential to a parliamentary system of government, may have inadvertently skewed responses and fostered opposition to Cha-cha,” Ortega said.
Adiong also pointed out the importance of accurately reflecting the content of proposed amendments in survey questions.
“The wording of survey questions should accurately reflect the actual provisions being proposed for amendment,” Adiong said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In line with the envisioned Bagong Pilipinas by the administration of President Ferdinand Bongbong R. Marcos Jr., the House of Representatives resolved on Wednesday (20 March 2024) night the immediate transmittal to the Senate of both the resolution on economic constitutional reform and the bill revoking the franchise of Swara Sug Media Corporation, which operates as Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) of controversial televangelist Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy.
Voting 288-8-2, the lower chamber passed on the third and final reading RBH No. 7, which seeks to amend specific economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution concerning public utilities, education, and advertising by inserting the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law” to give more flexibility regarding foreign ownership and participation in certain investments.
RBH 7, which mirrors RBH No. 6, is still being deliberated in the Senate.
The House has also invoked Article 17 Section 1 of the Constitution which allows it to propose amendments to the electorate by a 3/4 vote of all members.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, who co-authored RBH No. 7 with several other House leaders and members, underscored that the proposed economic constitutional amendments represent the final component of the investment measures pursued by the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.
On the other hand, the revocation of SMNI’s franchise was prompted by a series of violations, including spreading fake news, involvement in red-tagging, and committing serious corporate offenses.
“Tinutupad lamang po natin ang mandatong ini-atang sa atin ng Konstitusyon at ng taumbayan. Walang personalan dito. Trabaho lang,” Romualdez quipped.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Debunking unfounded fears of having a political agenda, the House of Representatives under the “proactive” leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Wednesday (20 March 2024) approved the third and final reading Resolution of Both Houses 7 which seeks to amend the 1987 Constitution and allow foreign ownership in vital industries.
Romualdez pointed out that the proposed removal of constitutional limitations on foreign ownership in certain sectors was the “last piece in the puzzle of investment measures” of the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.
“These changes, if ratified by our people in a plebiscite, will greatly boost these measures, including our President’s investment missions abroad which have generated actual investments and pledges in the billions of dollars and created thousands of jobs,” the leader of the 300-plus-strong members of the lower chamber said in a statement.
RBH 7, which removes the 40% foreign ownership limit for public utilities, education, and advertising firms, garnered 289 yes votes, seven no votes, and two abstentions.
“We heard the wise counsel and suggestions of the resource persons and experts we invited to our hearings. We assure the business community and our people that we are working on the other factors that affect investments, like the ease of doing business, the high cost of electricity, infrastructure, and similar issues,” Romualdez said.
The 19th Congress will take a month-long Holy Week break starting today, Wednesday (20 March 2024).
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has announced that both chambers of Congress have aligned in their efforts to amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
In a media interview in Prague on Friday (15 March 2024), President Marcos stated, “The Senate is continuing with the hearings, and the House [of Representatives] has already passed the proposal on second reading. What is crucial to note is that the resolutions put forward by both chambers are practically identical. This convergence signifies a significant milestone in our legislative process. We have reached a consensus.”
Reflecting on the journey of these discussions, President Marcos remarked, “We were well aware of the initial contentious nature of this endeavor. However, we are now traversing a common path between the two chambers. This unity is paramount.”
House Speaker Martin Romualdez emphasized the substantial deliberation the lower chamber has dedicated to the Resolution of Both Houses No. 7 (RBH 7), indicating a focused commitment to advancing the discussions.
RBH 7, which seeks to enhance foreign ownership in critical industries, was approved by the House of Representatives on Wednesday (13 March 2024).
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri affirmed that the Senate’s progress is on schedule, with approximately three more hearings remaining before advancing to further deliberation.
President Marcos previously underscored that existing economic provisions are impeding potential investors from engaging in operations within the country.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — As the Senate seemingly foot-dragged in approving the economic reforms in the 37-year-old Constitution, the House of Representatives under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez passed the economic charter change (Cha-Cha) after only six days of marathon deliberations.
On Wednesday, the House Committee of the Whole approved via voice vote Resolutions of Both Houses No. 7 (RBH 7), which seeks to amend the 1987 Constitution by allowing increased foreign ownership of vital industries.
It was learned that the Charter amendments under RBH 7 provide for the easing of the 40%-foreign ownership limit on education, public utilities, and advertising sectors by adding the phrase “unless provided for by law.”
Former finance secretary Margarito Teves lauded the swift action of the House of Representatives.
“Foreign equity limitations in the Constitution are binding constraints to investors. As of 2022, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand have already surpassed us in terms of foreign direct investments,” Teves said.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) also agreed with Teves that the RBH 7 will pump in much-needed foreign capital to address low wages and increase the productivity of the country’s labor force.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Good news to all lotto bettors if the Senate acts fast and approves the bill that lowers to 10 percent from 20 percent tax on lotto jackpot winnings that was immediately passed by the House of Representatives.
On Monday (4 March 2024), the House of Representatives under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez approved on third and final reading House Bill No. 9277 or the proposed Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act, with 270 affirmative votes, three negative votes and one abstention.
HB 9277 seeks to cut the final tax rate for Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) lotto jackpot winnings, as well as the documentary stamp tax on ticket cost for PCSO lotto and horse-race betting to 10 percent from 20 percent.
At the same time, the bill aims to lower the taxes on stock transactions, in an effort to help boost capital markets and the country’s investment competitiveness.
It is eyeing the stock transaction tax to be immediately reduced to 0.1 percent from 0.6 percent.
HB 9277 also proposes to lower the dividends tax rate for non-resident aliens to 10 percent from 25 percent.
(el amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — With their common goal to further enhance the capabilities and performance of the employees of the lower chamber of Congress, House of Representatives Secretary General Reginald “Reggie” Velasco has lauded the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) as they inked their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
Velasco, who recently signed the MOA on behalf of the House of Representatives, credited Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez for the idea of collaborating with TESDA.
Velasco underscored that Romualdez told him “to find ways of increasing the fringe benefits of the (House) employees, congressional staff and everybody working in Congress, including their dependents.”
For his part, TESDA Director General Suharto Mangudadatu, who was a former Sultan Kudarat 1st district Representative, noted that the collaboration is also an opportunity for TESDA and the House to provide opportunities to the unemployed, underemployed, out-of-school youths, and to those belonging to the marginalized group to become productive and self-sufficient.
Baguio City Rep. Mark Go, the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education chairperson said the collaboration with TESDA is crucial for continuously advancing in life, with upskilling and adopting a life-learning stance, regardless of age.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senators criticized certain members of the House of Representatives for deeming Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 “unconstitutional” due to its proposed voting method.
The House of Representatives recently introduced RBH No. 7, similar to RBH 6, except that the lower house advocates for a “joint vote” between the House and Senate.
“Those four words ‘each House voting separately’ are not in the Constitution. Our colleagues in the Senate cannot and should not insist on that language… I am not a lawyer, but that is unconstitutional,” stated House Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr.
Senator Jinggoy Estrada emphasized the importance of separate voting for the Senate and the House.
“When you say Congress, there are both Houses, there are two Houses. The House of the Senate, and the House of Representatives. Okay?” remarked Estrada.
“In joint voting, we only have 24 members. We will be outnumbered by the congressmen,” he added.
Senator Win Gatchalian also criticized the allegations made by the congressman, stating that it was not fabricated by the Senate.
“It’s not made up because it’s very clear in the first hearing (on RBH6). Justice Villanueva stated that the intention is indeed bicameral… It might not be explicitly stated, but the intention is to vote through a bicameral system. So, that’s why the Senate included it,” explained Gatchalian.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The deliberations on Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 7 in the House of Representatives have been rescheduled for Monday, February 26, 2024. It was originally slated for Wednesday (21 Feb 2024).
RBH No. 7 mirrors RBH No. 6 filed in the Senate, focusing on amending the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
“It (Committee of the Whole discussions on RBH 7) will be moved to Monday (26 Feb 2024) due to the availability of the resource persons [on that day]. As you know, the input from these resource persons is crucial to our endeavor,” stated Quimbo during a press conference.
“Since we will be conducting it in the plenary [as Committee of the Whole], the proceedings will be expedited,” Quimbo added.
Quimbo mentioned that foreign investors, business chambers, small enterprises, academics, economists, and the nation’s economic managers are among the resource persons.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
The House of Representatives has issued a subpoena to Kingdom of Jesus Christ pastor Apollo Quiboloy, compelling his attendance at a hearing scheduled for Tuesday (12 March 2024).
The hearing will investigate alleged violations by Swara Sug Media Corporation of its franchise, potentially leading to the possible revocation of the corporation’s license observers aver.
“Please be advised that failure to comply with this Order will necessitate the Committee to resort to Section 11 of the Rules of Procedure Governing Inquiries in Aid of Legislation of the House of Representatives, granting the power of contempt,” the subpoena addressed to Quiboloy read, signed by House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
On Monday, February 19, 2024, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri signed the subpoena summoning Quiboloy to appear before the Senate regarding allegations of sexual abuse and human trafficking next Monday (26 Feb 2024).
“By Authority of Section 17 of the Rules of Procedure Governing Inquiries in Aid of Legislation of the Senate, Republic of the Philippines, you are hereby commanded and required to appear before the Senate, then and there to testify under oath on what you know relative to the subject matter,” the Senate-issued subpoena read.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — House of Representatives leaders have filed Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 7 on Monday which mirrored the resolution filed by the Senate on amending economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
RBH No. 7 was authored by Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr., Deputy Speaker and Quezon 2nd District Rep. David “Jay-jay” Suarez, Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, and other House leaders, was almost an exact reproduction of Resolution of Both Houses No. 6, filed by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senators Juan Edgardo Angara and Loren Legarda.
The resolution is titled “A Resolution of Both Houses of Congress proposing amendments to certain economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines, particularly on Articles Xll, XlV, and XVl,” similar to the Senate version.
In filing RBH No. 7, Gonzales, Suarez, Dalipe, and other House leaders said the Constitution “is the supreme law of the land, enshrining the foundations of our nationhood and reflecting the consensus of our citizenry.”
“The nation’s economic policy must be reframed under the demands of this increasingly globalized age, while still protecting the general policy of Filipino-first that guides the economic provisions of the Constitution,” the House leaders said.
The lawmakers also stressed the need to institutionalize the reforms laid down in the amended Public Service Act to liberalize industries.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — In a move expected to benefit over a million Filipino professionals, the House of Representatives has approved on its second reading a bill extending the validity of Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) license IDs from three to five years.
The bill, deemed non-controversial, is anticipated to receive smooth sailing and full support in both chambers of Congress.
The extension of the PRC license ID’s validity period aligns with the Ease of Doing Business and Anti-Red Tape Law, aiming to streamline processes for professionals registering and renewing their licenses. With approximately one million professionals renewing annually, this move is poised to significantly impact their lives and that of their families.
Rep. Joey Salceda, the bill’s proponent, expressed optimism for its swift approval in the Senate, projecting potential passage by May, contingent upon Senate workload and agenda. He emphasized coordination with Senate leaders to ensure timely deliberation.
Amid cybersecurity concerns, Salceda urged the PRC and Civil Service Commission (CSC) to bolster internet portal security to safeguard against potential breaches. He advocated for secure electronic interfaces between PRC and CSC databases and those of other key agencies like PhilSys National ID, SSS, GSIS, PAG-IBIG, BIR, and PhilHealth.
In parallel efforts, discussions on regulating the psychology and audiology professions progressed in a joint public hearing led by the House Committee on Civil Service and Professional Regulation and the Committee on Health.
Technical working groups were established to refine substitute bills for the Philippine Psychology Act of 2009 and regulations governing audiology and audiometry practices.
Highlighting the urgency of addressing mental health challenges, Rep. Anna York P. Bondoc’s House Bill 9611 proposes expanding the role of psychometricians in mental health service delivery.
Bondoc stressed the need to capitalize on the significant number of licensed psychometricians to bolster mental health services, especially amid the pandemic’s impact.
Moreover, the bill seeks to rename psychometricians as “associate registered psychologists,” emphasizing their supportive role to registered psychologists and psychiatrists. While delineating areas of distinction, the bill empowers associate registered psychologists to undertake specified roles autonomously, underscoring their complementary function within the mental health sector.
As discussions on these bills advance, stakeholders anticipate broader access to mental health and audiological services, addressing critical gaps in these essential areas of healthcare provision.
(By el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — In a promising development for Filipino professionals, a substitute bill aimed at extending the validity of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) license ID from three years to five years is poised for smooth sailing and full support among members of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
This bill, deemed non-controversial, carries significant implications for the lives of countless professionals and their families across the nation.
The proposed extension, set to directly benefit approximately one million professionals who register and renew with the PRC annually, aligns seamlessly with the principles of the Ease of Doing Business and Anti-Red Tape Law.
By streamlining the renewal process and reducing administrative burdens, this move promises to enhance efficiency and convenience for professionals while fostering a more conducive environment for economic growth.
Optimism surrounds the timeline for Senate approval, with hopes pinned on a favorable outcome by May of this year. However, the pace of progress hinges on the Senate’s agenda and workload, given the limited number of session days ahead.
Close coordination with key figures such as Senate majority leader Sen. Joel Villanueva and Senator Ramon Revilla Jr., who serves as the counterpart in the Senate, will be instrumental in navigating the legislative landscape.
In tandem with efforts to extend the validity of PRC license IDs, attention remains focused on advancing legislative reforms to modernize outdated professional board laws.
With some laws dating back over three decades, the imperative for updates and upgrades is clear, underscoring the ongoing commitment to ensuring the relevance and effectiveness of regulatory frameworks in the 21st century.
Against the backdrop of evolving cybersecurity threats, a call to action resonates for bolstering the resilience of PRC and Civil Service Commission (CSC) internet portals and databases against hackers and cybercriminals.
Emphasizing the need for secure electronic interfaces with key national databases, including the PhilSys National ID, SSS, GSIS, PAG-IBIG, BIR, and PhilHealth, underscores a proactive stance in safeguarding sensitive information and critical infrastructure.
Looking ahead, a strategic focus on expanding the pool of certified cybersecurity professionals emerges as a priority. With only a limited number of certified experts currently in the country, urgent steps are warranted to scale up training and certification programs, thereby fortifying defenses against cyber threats and bolstering national cybersecurity resilience.
Harnessing the latest technologies and platforms, both for examination administration and professional development, stands as a cornerstone of enhancing the efficacy and relevance of PRC and CSC operations.
From online seminars to real-time monitoring of professional practices, leveraging technological advancements holds the key to driving meaningful progress and ensuring the continued competence and integrity of Filipino professionals and civil servants alike.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — The ongoing deliberations within the House Committee on Civil Service and Professional Regulation have reignited discussions surrounding the representation of licensed professional teachers (LPTs) within the licensure board.
The central issue revolves around the absence of an integrated professional organization to advocate for the profession’s interests, a recurrent hurdle that often impedes legislative progress due to organizational fragmentation and pride-driven politics.
In response to this longstanding challenge, discussions during the hearings on House Bill 8559, which seeks to amend the Philippine Teachers Professionalization Act of 1994, have introduced two potential models for consideration: the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) and the associations within the University of the Philippines (UP) system encompassing faculty, student councils, and non-teaching staff.
Drawing inspiration from the success of the IBP, established by Republic Act 6397 in September 1971, proponents advocate for a similar integrated model for the teaching profession and other fields. RA 6397 empowered the Supreme Court to establish the IBP, resulting in a singular and influential entity that unifies various legal organizations under its umbrella.
Under the proposed framework outlined in HB 8559, the House committee aims to compel all associations and organizations representing professional teachers to form an Integrated Professional Teachers Organization.
Within this structure, presidents of member groups would nominate candidates to represent them on the professional board of teachers, streamlining the selection process and enhancing representation.
This approach diverges from the current practice, wherein the Professional Regulation Commission selects representatives from among numerous accredited organizations and associations. By adopting the IBP model, proponents anticipate greater cohesion and efficacy in advocating for the interests of professional teachers.
Addressing concerns about attracting top talent to the teaching profession, proponents advocate for non-fiscal incentives and increased Tertiary Education Subsidy allocations for students enrolled in teacher education colleges.
This strategy aims to elevate the prestige and desirability of teaching as a career path, thereby enhancing the quality of individuals entering the profession.
While acknowledging the importance of rigorous licensure standards, proponents emphasize the need to bolster the quality of aspiring teachers entering the system, underscoring the role of incentives and support mechanisms in achieving this objective.
In collaboration with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), proponents seek to leverage existing powers and funding mechanisms to implement these initiatives effectively, ensuring alignment with broader efforts to enhance the quality of education in the Philippines.
As discussions continue within the House committee, stakeholders remain optimistic about the potential of the IBP-inspired model to foster greater unity, representation, and excellence within the teaching profession and beyond.
The pursuit of integrated and effective governance structures reflects a commitment to advancing the interests of professionals and promoting the highest standards of service and professionalism.
(el Amigo/MNM)
Ni Liza Soriano
MANILA — Hindi umano dadalo ang mga miyembro ng House of Representatives (HOR) sa imbestigasyon ng Senado sa people’s initiative para amyendahan ang Saligang Batas, ayon sa isang ranking leader ng Kamara.
“While we appreciate Senator Marcos’ open invitation to the Senate probe, it seems we in the House have our hands full crafting legislation aimed at enhancing the lives of our fellow Filipinos. It’s a demanding task, but someone’s got to do it,” sabi ni House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe.
“Perhaps while we focus on building bridges, others seem more inclined to hunt for witches. But rest assured, should our legislative schedule allow, we’d be more than willing to engage in fruitful discussions, preferably ones that construct, not deconstruct, our collective efforts for national progress,” dagdag pa niya.
Sa ilalim ng inisyatiba, magkakasamang boboto ang mga senador at kongresista sa mga panukalang charter change, sa halip na magkahiwalay bilang dalawang kapulungan ng Kongreso.
Ang magkasanib na pagboto ay mangangahulugan na ang 24 na miyembro ng Senado ay hihigit sa bilang ng mahigit 300 mambabatas ng HOR.
(el Amigo/MNM)
THE House of Representatives adopted a resolution strongly condemning the Sunday bombing of a Catholic mass celebration by students of the Mindanao State University in Marawi, emphasizing the urgency to expedite the investigation and subsequent prosecution of the perpetrators of the crime.
Lawmakers passed House Resolution No. 1504 introduced by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales, Jr., Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan, Senior Deputy Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, and Reps. Yedda Marie Romualdez, Jude Acidre, and Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong.
“The House of Representatives condemns this act of violence perpetrated against innocent students and undertaken in a place of learning. I condole with the families of those who died and sympathize with those injured in the blast,” Romualdez said.
On December 3, 2023, a powerful explosion ripped through the Dimaporo Gymnasium in MSU that instantly claimed four lives and severely injured many people, particularly students.
The resolution described the event as an extremely disturbing, appalling and tragic event which occurred in a place of learning and fellowship and during Sunday service, jeopardizing the peace process the Government has initiated in Mindanao, and disrupting the peace and security of the communities in the region.
“It was reported that the terrorist attack happened after military actions against local terrorist groups in the region resulted to the death of a group leader of the Dawlah Islamiya-Maute group, a group linked to the ISIS that previously attempted to establish Marawi as part of the caliphate resulting in a five-month conflict causing numerous casualties in 2017,” the resolution read.
“There is an urgent need for a thorough investigation of this incident by the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, and all government agencies concerned, to determine the perpetrators of these senseless and horrific killings,” it added.
The bigger chamber expressed its deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims, and is committed to support the affected residents to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice.
“Acts of lawlessness, violence and terroristic activities, resulting to violent killings especially of innocent people, destruction of property, and disruption of public order and safety should never be tolerated, and have to be suppressed and eradicated in order to promote lasting peace and prosperity in Mindanao,” the resolution said.
HOUSE Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday (05 Dec 2023) reiterated his unwavering support for President Bongbong Marcos’ decision to reopen peace negotiations with communist rebels
“As Speaker of the House of Representatives, we reaffirm our wholehearted support to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to reopen peace negotiations,” Speaker Romualdez, first cousin of the President, said in a statement.
It may be recalled that the Marcos administration and the communist rebels agreed last week to restart talks after a six-year hiatus, aiming to end half a century of conflict that has killed more than 40,000 people.
“This courageous step towards reconciliation is a testament to our government’s commitment to enduring peace and unity, which are the cornerstones of our nation’s development and progress,” Romualdez added.
“The path to peace is often complex and challenging, but it is a journey worth undertaking for the future of the Philippines.”
The Speaker from the Tacloban Leyte also explained that “President Marcos’s initiative is a bold move towards healing and unity, reflecting our dedication to resolving longstanding conflicts through dialogue and understanding.”
Romualdez also stressed that the resumption of peace talks “is essential for all sectors—government, civil society, and every Filipino—to come together in support of this peace process. Through collective efforts and an unswerving commitment to peace, we can overcome the barriers of the past and construct a stronger, more united Philippines.”
“Bakit tayo matatakot makipag-usap kung alam nating malakas ang ating Sandatahang Lakas at matatag ang ating Republika? Ano ang ikababahala natin kung alam natin na nasa pamahalaan ang tiwala ng bayan?
The Speaker also said the reopening of the peace talks that the previous administration of Rodrigo Duterte shelved, “is more than just a political maneuver; it is a moral imperative, a chance to mend the fissures that have long divided our nation. We are not just negotiating terms; we are weaving the fabric of a peaceful future for every Filipino.
“Let us embrace this opportunity with open hearts and minds, fostering an environment where peace can flourish. Together, under President Marcos’s leadership, we shall strive towards a Philippines that is not only prosperous but also harmonious and united in its diversity,” the Speaker said.
Tama na ang digmaan. Pagod na ang ating mamamayan sa kaguluhan. Bigyan natin ng pagkakataon ang kapayaan.”
The House of Representatives also issued an official cross-party statement, in a collective expression of their “unwavering support for PBBM’s initiative for peace and unity.”
Here is the full text:
JOINT STATEMENT OF ALL POLITICAL PARTIES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
As the united voice of the House of Representatives, representing all political parties, we collectively express our unwavering support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s initiative for peace and national unity. This historic move marks a pivotal moment in our nation’s journey towards lasting peace and sustainable development.
We acknowledge the diverse perspectives and ideologies within our ranks, yet we stand together in our commitment to the greater good of the Philippines. This unity in purpose reflects the strength of our democracy and the resilience of our nation.
President Marcos’s call for peace transcends political boundaries and speaks to the core of our shared values as Filipinos. It is a call for understanding, cooperation, and collective action towards a future where every citizen can live in harmony and prosperity.
Recognizing the complexities and challenges of this peace process, we pledge our support and commitment to contribute constructively to these negotiations. We are united in the belief that through dialogue, empathy, and mutual respect, we can overcome historical divides and build a more inclusive and peaceful nation.
We urge all Filipinos, from every corner of our archipelago, to join us in this noble pursuit. It is only through our joint efforts that we can turn the aspirations of peace, unity, and progress into reality.
In solidarity, we commend President Marcos for his visionary leadership. Together, as a united House of Representatives and as one nation, we look forward to a future marked by peace, unity, and prosperity for all Filipinos.
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — With the filing of resolutions at the House of Representatives calling for the government to cooperate with the International Criminal Courts’s investigation on the “bloody drug war” during the previous Rodrigo Roa Duterte administration that human rights groups claim to have killed 30,000 people, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday said the Philippines was studying a possible return to the ICC.
It can be recalled that on 21 July 2020, the Supreme Court ruled that the government remains obliged to cooperate in criminal proceedings of the International Criminal Court even if it has withdrawn from the Rome Statute – the treaty that formed the ICC.
“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,” the President told reporters.
He added that the resolutions at the House of Representatives were “not unusual.”
The lower chamber is under the leadership of his cousin Speaker Ferdinand Martin G Romualdez who was recently “snubbed” by Vice President Sara Duterte who claimed she did not notice the Speaker when she met the Philippine delegation at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.
Speaker Romualdez stands around six feet tall and is hard not to notice his commanding presence.
“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 said.
On Tuesday, November 20, pro-administration National Unity Party (NUP) Manila Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. filed a resolution urging the Marcos Jr. administration to coordinate with the ICC probe.
Last October, a similar resolution was filed by Makabayan bloc lawmakers France Castro of the ACT Teachers Party-list, Arlene Brosas of the Gabriela Party-list, and Raoul Manuel of the Kabataan Party-list.
The Philippines under the Duterte administration pulled out of the ICC in 2019, some three years before the drug war inquiry was resumed.
“If you are talking about the jurisdiction of the ICC, especially since we have withdrawn from the Rome Statute a few years back, that brings into question whether or not this is actually possible,” Marcos Jr. said.
(ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In a joint effort to enhance road safety and fortify the integrity of the vehicle registration system, the House of Representatives and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) have officially agreed to apprehend drivers utilizing protocol plates bearing the number ‘8.’
House Secretary General Reginald Velasco, following a meeting with MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Romando Artes announced the collaborative initiative to confiscate expired or spurious plates.
Velasco emphasized the importance of curbing the use of unauthorized special plates, citing their threat to public safety and the potential compromise of the vehicle registration system’s integrity.
In line with this commitment, Velasco previously issued a memorandum mandating the surrender of all old ‘8’ plates, clarifying that no lawmakers in the 19th Congress have been issued such protocol plates.
“The House leadership remains steadfast in upholding the law and ensuring the proper and lawful use of vehicle identification plates,” Velasco stated.
The objective is to eradicate spurious, expired, and fake plates before issuing new ones. The ‘8’ car plate is specifically reserved for vehicles belonging to members of the House.
(ai/mnm)