By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada on Friday (15 Nov 2024) filed a resolution honoring Olympian Margielyn Didal for her recent victory at the Red Bull Buenos Aires Conquest, a major skateboarding competition in Argentina.
“Her recent success in Buenos Aires further solidifies her standing as an inspiration to young Filipino athletes, reinforcing the message that with dedication, resilience, and the support of our community, Filipino athletes can achieve great heights on the world stage,” Estrada said in Senate Resolution No. 1235.
“This latest achievement not only reflects her remarkable skill and resilience but also amplifies the presence of the Philippines on the global skateboarding stage, contributing to the increasing recognition of Filipino athletes in international sports,” he added.
Didal secured the championship title in the women’s division at the Red Bull Buenos Aires Conquest on November 9.
The victory marks a major milestone in Didal’s career, particularly after her recovery from a severe ankle injury in October 2022 that had sidelined her from competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Didal previously qualified for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, where skateboarding made its Olympic debut, and advanced to the finals, finishing in 7th place.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada said on Tuesday (12 Nov 2024) that government officials should focus on creating a comprehensive contingency plan to assist Filipinos should President-elect Donald Trump follow through on his campaign promise to implement a large-scale immigration crackdown.
“Madaling sabihin, pero mahirap gawin. Madaling sabihin na sana piliin na lang na umuwi ng mga undocumented nating kababayan na sa US kesa antayin pa nilang mai-deport,” Estrada said.
He added that, in addition to the efforts of concerned government agencies to develop logistical support plans for eventual repatriation, authorities should also help returning Filipinos by providing jobs or other means of livelihood.
“Apektado rin ang mga pamilyang umaasa sa padala ng mga kababayan natin na walang legal na basehan ang paninirahan sa US sakali man na mapilitan silang umuwi ng bansa,” he noted.
“Our government should be prepared to offer financial assistance programs to help families affected by the loss of a financial lifeline.”
Earlier, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez said that Trump would likely carry out his promise to deport undocumented Filipinos.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada emphasized on Wednesday (October 16, 2024) that former President Rodrigo Duterte’s attendance at the Senate’s planned investigation into the war on drugs is crucial to uncover the truth.
“The former president’s testimony is key to revealing the truth and ensuring justice for all affected parties,” Estrada said.
“Mahalaga na mabigyan ng boses ang lahat, lalo na kung ang layunin ng imbestigasyon ay linawin ang mga hakbang na ginawa ng nakaraang administrasyon,” he added.
Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa announced that he will launch a motu proprio investigation into the war on drugs, where Duterte will be invited as a resource person.
This investigation will run parallel to the House quad committee’s inquiry into the same issue.
Meanwhile, Senator Koko Pimentel stressed that the Senate must prioritize an investigation into the war on drugs.
“Dapat hanapan ng time sa dami ng namatay diyan sa war on drugs,” he said. “The victims, including grieving families, deserve serious time and attention from senators.”
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada stated on Friday (Oct. 4, 2024) that fake Filipinos do not have the right to run for public office.
This statement came in response to Alice Guo’s plan to file her Certificate of Candidacy (COC) for mayor. In Bamban, Tarlac.
“Karapatan ng kahit na sinong Filipino ang iprisinta ang sarili sa taumbayan para manilbihan bilang isang lingkod bayan. Ang pribilehiyong ito na nakasaad sa ating Konstitusyon ay para lamang sa ating mga kapwa at hindi kailanman maaaring ibigay sa mga pekeng Filipino,” the senator said.
Estrada also emphasized that political candidates have the responsibility to disclose accurate and truthful information about themselves in accordance with the law.
Moreover, he stated that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has the duty to ensure that every candidate complies with the requirements under the law before running for office.
Earlier, Comelec announced that COCs will be posted on their official website for the public to verify the candidates’ eligibility to run for office.
Ia/mnm
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada has filed a resolution commending the country’s delegation in the recetly-concluded Paris Olympics, saying that the 22-athlete delegation accomplished the best and strongest showing yet in the Philippines’ 100 years of participation in the world’s biggest multi-sport event.
“This is a significant rise from the 50th ranking earned by the country in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with a record medal haul of one gold, two silver, and one bronze,” Estrada said in his Senate Resolution No. 1129.
“The Filipino athletes, together with their coaches, trainers and support teams, bearing the national colors superbly represented the country in the Olympics, showcased Filipinos’ athletic prowess and sportsmanship on the biggest sporting stage, and brought pride, honor, and inspiration to the entire nation,” the Senate leader added.
Philippines bagged four medals during the 2024 Paris Olympics, two golds and two bronze, the best in the Southeast Asian region.
Gymnast Carlos Edriel Yulo made history for being the first male athlete to win the gold medal after topping the men’s floor exercise in artistic gymnastics on August 3 and bagging another gold the next day after ruling the men’s vault finals.
Boxer Aira Villegas marked an impressive Olympic debut by snagging the bronze medal in the women’s 50kg division.
2020 Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Nesthy Petecio secured her status as one of the nation’s greatest fighters when she clinched bronze in the women’s 57kg division on August 8.
(ia/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senators on Wednesday (June 12, 2024) joined the celebration of the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day.
Senate Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada emphasized that Filipinos should demonstrate to the world “our unity and determination in defending our rights, natural resources, and our territory.”
“Ang pagmamalasakit sa isa’t isa ay ang pinakamalakas nating sandata laban sa mga dayuhang pwersa na nagnanais baguhin ang ating teritoryo at pahinain ang ating soberanya,” he added.
Senator Grace Poe stressed the importance of protecting and defending the country’s independence.
“Let us never forget: The independence we enjoy now must always be protected and defended. There can be no true progress if we yield our rights and dignity as a nation.”
Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros urged Filipinos to safeguard the country’s national interests.
“Kailangan natin ng pantay na pagkakataon para sa lahat, proteksyon para sa mga kababaihan at bata, pangmatagalang hanapbuhay para sa mga tumataguyod sa pamilya, at mas mababang presyo ng pangunahing pangangailangan,” she added.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Stressing that divorce is an accessible legal way to liberate from abusive marriages, House Assistant Minority Leader and Gabriela Women’s Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas has assailed Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada for saying that the bill’s chances of passage in the Senate would be like “going through the eye of a needle.”
Estrada cited his Roman Catholic beliefs as grounds for his objection to the divorce bill which was passed by the House of Representatives before Congress adjourned “sine die” (indefinitely).
“We shouldn’t turn a blind eye to the alarming cases of domestic violence for the sake of religious dogma,” Brosas pointed out.
She also castigated Estrada’s remark that the divorce bill will not address hunger.
“The proposed bill was never intended to solve poverty; its goal is to provide an accessible and affordable legal avenue for individuals trapped in irreparable and abusive marriages to regain their freedom,” Brosas asserted.
She added that the senators should base their decisions on the needs of the majority of Filipinos.
“The role of the State is to uphold human rights and gender equality, not to entrench patriarchal norms that enable spousal abuse and marital imprisonment of women,” Brosas emphasized.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada reiterated on Tuesday that the divorce bill is not a priority bill in the Senate, saying that it will not help solve “hunger” in the country.
“That is not our priority bill,” Estrada said during Kapihan sa Senado.
“Ngayon, sa change of leadership, uunahin namin ‘yung mga priority bills. ‘Yung divorce bill naman kahit may divorce bill o walang divorce bill, hindi makakatulong sa kumakalam na tiyan ‘yan,” he added.
Meanwhile, Estrada said that he surveyed his colleagues about the divorce bill as he was curious about their position following the passage of the proposed Absolute Divorce Act in the House of Representatives.
For his part, the senator said that a divorce bill should not be passed as it is against the teachings of the Catholic church.
“I’m a devout Catholic. I was educated from a Jesuit educated school and I adhere to the teachings of our Catholic Church, period,” Estrada said.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada on Friday (24 May 2024) said he has favored the release of retired former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) agent Jonathan Morales due to humanitarian considerations.
Morales was released on Thursday (23 May 2024) night.
“Despite the seriousness of the issues that former PDEA agent Jonathan Morales is facing before the Senate — particularly his lying under oath before the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs — I have decided to give my consent to releasing him from Senate detention because of humanitarian considerations,” Estrada said in a statement on Friday, May 24.
The senator explained that his decision was influenced by Morales’ age and the need for him to be with his family.
“I considered his situation, given his age and the need for him to be with his family. Therefore, I decided to allow him to go home.”
Morales was earlier cited in contempt for allegedly lying during the hearing of the so-called “PDEA leaks.”
Estrada hopes that citing Morales in contempt will serve as a lesson to those who will testify in Senate hearings.
“Let this serve as a lesson to future witnesses: lying in Senate hearings is never acceptable and will not be tolerated.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Newly appointed Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada clarified that external forces did not play a role in the recent change of leadership within the Senate.
“There were no outside forces. It was a decision made among our colleagues here,” stated Estrada.
However, Estrada disclosed that he had a conversation with Senate President Chiz Escudero, who expressed interest in the Senate presidency.
“Three days ago, Senator Escudero called me, expressing his interest in the Senate presidency. We had a discussion, and after deliberation, I decided to support him,” Estrada revealed.
Acknowledging the weight of his decision, Estrada expressed mixed feelings. “It’s not easy to remove a friend from a position,” he added.
When asked about the reasons behind his support for Escudero, Estrada declined to provide specifics, citing confidentiality. “There are various factors and considerations involved, but I cannot disclose them publicly,” he stated.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada stated on Monday (May 6, 2024) that if the proposed bill for the new Salary Standardization Law VI fails to gain approval in Congress, it could still be implemented through an Executive Order.
“If enacting a new law for SSL V proves unattainable, an alternative avenue could be the issuance of an Executive Order, similar to the action taken by former President Benigno Aquino III on February 16, 2016. He issued EO No. 201 to effect an increase in the salaries of government employees when Congress failed to ratify a new SSL,” explained Estrada, chairman of the Senate Labor, Employment, and Human Resources Development Committee.
While the Senate has passed the P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act, its counterpart in the House of Representatives has yet to be approved.
Estrada remains hopeful that his proposed legislation to increase salaries will be given due consideration, particularly in light of the rising cost of living.
“Umaasa tayo na mabibigyan ng konsiderasyon ang panukalang inihain ko, lalo na’t patuloy ang pagtaas ng presyo ng mga bilihin na nakaaapekto sa mga manggagawa.”
Meanwhile, the senator emphasized that during budget deliberations, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is expected to be adequately prepared to present its comprehensive study on the feasibility of providing additional rounds of salary increments for government workers in the coming years.
“Irrespective of the President’s directives, our economic managers have already foreseen the necessity to allocate funds for salary restructuring in the 2025 national budget, given the escalating cost of living,” he added.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada has filed a resolution honoring prosthetic artist Cecille Baun for her invaluable contributions to the country’s cinema industry.
“Her prodigious handiwork, innovative techniques, and boundless imagination were crucial elements in realizing filmmakers’ visions and portraying the stories of the Filipino people across generations,” remarked Estrada.
“Her passing is a tragic loss to the local industry as she leaves a significant void in the field of prosthetics and special makeup for the silver screen,” the senator added.
In his Senate Resolution No. 1005, Estrada extended the Senate’s profound sympathy and sincere condolences to Baun’s family.
Estrada highlighted that the creative workers behind the camera are the unsung heroes who pour their hearts and souls into their film projects, often without receiving the spotlight they truly deserve.
Baun, acclaimed as the “Queen of Prosthetics,” was a pioneer in the field, boasting a professional career spanning over 40 years, which began in the 1970s.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada has introduced a bill mandating employers nationwide to offer a complimentary financial literacy program to all employees.
Under Senate Bill No. 2630, known as the Personal Finance Education in the Workplace Act, employers will be required to implement a personal finance education program covering topics such as behavioral finance, savings, emergency fund development, debt management, investment, insurance, retirement planning, and other relevant personal finance subjects.
“The pivotal role of employers in spearheading this initiative cannot be understated, as they provide the most accessible platforms and avenues for such programs. If employers are willing, they can find ways to elevate the financial literacy of our workers, teaching them how to save, invest, and more,” Estrada stated.
“This initiative will empower employees by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage their finances, leading to greater financial stability,” added the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resources Development.
He further noted that financially stable employees benefit companies by enhancing focus, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada refuted former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque’s assertion connecting an alleged agreement between the Philippines and China regarding the removal of BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal to his father, former president Joseph Estrada.
Estrada deemed Roque’s statement disappointing and deemed it unacceptable for him “to make such baseless claims when he’s not privy to such information.”
“I have previously affirmed in a privilege speech that there was no agreement or commitment made by my father, former president Joseph Estrada, to remove BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal. This was further corroborated by former defense and security officials such as former Defense Secretary Orlando Mercado,” he stated in a release.
As the chair of the Committee on National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification, and Reconciliation, Estrada emphasized that statements like Roque’s sow confusion and doubt regarding the country’s integrity and capability to defend its sovereignty amidst China’s “worsening aggression and bullying.”
“Despite these challenges, it’s commendable that the Marcos administration is taking concrete steps to safeguard our sovereign rights and territorial integrity. Any actions taken to address China’s ongoing and escalating aggression should be supported and encouraged,” the lawmaker asserted.
“We must stand firm and united in defending our sovereignty and protecting our maritime territories for the benefit of both present and future generations,” he added.
When queried about a prior agreement between China and the Philippines to relocate the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal during an interview with Politiko, Roque stated that he was not “privy” to such an agreement but only to the engagements conducted by the Duterte Administration with China.
Roque mentioned that, to his knowledge, the agreement concerning the removal of the grounded warship had been associated with former President Estrada’s administration.
“If I am not mistaken, they attribute that agreement to the administration of President Estrada and not to President Duterte,” Roque remarked during the same interview.
Additionally, Roque revealed in the interview that the Philippines had entered into a “gentleman’s agreement” with China during the Duterte Administration, purportedly preventing the country from dispatching repair materials to the BRP Sierra Madre.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada said on Tuesday (19 March 2024) that the proposed measure, the Kabalikat Hanapbuhay Bill would alleviate the unemployment and underemployment rates in the country.
In his opening statement, Estrada said that Senate Bill No. 47 aims to grant indigent jobseekers a 20 percent discount and waived fees for pre-employment requirements issued by various government agencies.
“In the long run, this measure will help alleviate unemployment and underemployment rates in the country, ultimately empowering our indigent kababayans to become productive contributors to our economy,” the chairperson of the Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resources Development said.
Sen. Raffy Tulfo expressed his support for SBN 46, saying that it would help address the struggles of many underprivileged Filipino workers.
“Marami sa ating mga kababayan, yung mga mahihirap, ang isa sa mga problemang nae-encounter nila, bagamat gustong-gusto nila magtrabaho, kaya lang kapag sila ay nag-aapply, eh wala silang sapat na pera sa requirements. Napakaganda po nito na 20 percent discount na maibibigay sa kanila, this will encourage them to look for a job,” Tulfo said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada has filed a bill seeking to establish dialysis center in every regional and provincial hospitals nationwide to address the rising number of kidney disease cases in the country.
“Sophisticated medical equipment and advanced facilities are concentrated in highly urbanized cities. Consequently, patients from rural areas often need to travel long distances, which incurs high costs, including travel expenses. For patients with kidney disorders who require regular dialysis, these financial burdens can be especially challenging,” Estrada said in his Senate Bill No. 800 or the Dialysis Center Act.
“Malaking kaluwagan sa bulsa, oras at iba pang alalahanin ng pasyente at kanilang pamilya kung may dialysis ward o centers sa lahat ng pampublikong ospital sa mga probinsya at gawing libre ito sa mga mahihirap,” the senator said.
According to the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), current estimates indicate that approximately 2.3 million Filipinos have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
In 2016, more than 36,000 patients underwent dialysis treatment, indicating a 15 percent increase in the number of patients in a year.
These figures highlight the severity of the problem faced by the country’s healthcare system and the need for concerted efforts to combat the rise of CKD, the lawmaker said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — Senator Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada refuted claims on Tuesday (06 March 2024) suggesting his involvement in an alleged scheme to unseat Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri from his position at the helm of the upper chamber.
Dismissing the rumors, Estrada stated firmly, “There’s no truth to it. To dispel any doubts, there’s absolutely no truth to it,” in response to inquiries regarding purported efforts by certain senators to persuade him to take over Zubiri’s role.
Estrada emphasized his readiness to endorse the resolution expressing support for Zubiri’s leadership, which was reportedly circulated among senators for signing. “Certainly, I would sign it. However, I’ve yet to receive a copy. How can I sign it if they won’t provide me with one?” he questioned.
While acknowledging the swirling rumors, Estrada expressed ignorance about their origins.
In the event of being ousted from the chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Defense and Security, Estrada affirmed his intention to seek clarification regarding the decision to replace him.
Speculation circulated that Estrada was being considered as a replacement for Zubiri due to his close ties with Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, who finds himself in disagreement with the Senate president over the thwarted people’s initiative to amend the Constitution.
Expressing gratitude to his peers for their unwavering support amid renewed coup speculations over the weekend, Zubiri extended his thanks on Tuesday.
On Monday, a statement of support for Zubiri’s leadership, signed by 14 senators, including Zubiri himself, was released.
“I am deeply honored by the continued trust my colleagues have placed in my leadership of the Senate. I consistently maintain that I serve at the pleasure of my colleagues, and with their resolute backing, I am encouraged to persist in my role as Senate President,” Zubiri remarked in a statement.
(By 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 Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada has filed a bill, decriminalizing libel and imposing a fine of P5,000 to P30,000 and specifying the venue of the civil action in libel cases involving community journalists, publications, or broadcast stations.
“While it is right of individuals to be protected from irresponsible reporting or commentary imprisonment is not a just penalty for such. Civil damages may be enough penalty and deterrence,” Estrada said.
Estrada emphasized the necessity of adding a new clause to the Revised Penal Code that would specify where civil lawsuits involving libel would be heard.
Instead of jail time, which can vary from six months to six years for libel committed through writing or similar means, Estrada suggested imposing fines ranging from P10,000 to P30,000.
Instead of imprisonment, which currently ranges from one month to six months, Estrada suggested imposing a fine of P5,000 to P15,000 on any reporter, editor, or manager of a newspaper, daily, or magazine who publishes facts related to someone’s private life that are offensive to their honor, virtue, and reputation.
Libel is a criminal offense under Article 353 of the RPC which refers to the public and malicious imputation of a crime, vice, or defect, whether real or imaginary, that has the potential to harm someone’s reputation or tarnish the memory of a deceased individual.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada has introduced a bill mandating local government units (LGUs) to provide complimentary medicines to indigent patients in public hospitals.
Estrada emphasized the need for LGUs to allocate a portion of their national tax allotment share to ensure that medications for indigent patients are provided at no cost.
“While consultations and hospitalization are often free in public hospitals, health care centers, or clinics, the significance diminishes when patients cannot afford the prescribed medications,” noted Estrada.
In Senate Bill No. 1029, Estrada recommends that LGUs set aside a portion of their National Tax Allotments (NTA) to fund the provision of free medicines to indigent patients through public hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, or other outlets in their respective areas.
To guarantee accessibility to complimentary medicines, Estrada proposes that government hospitals and clinics establish their pharmacies or outlets for the distribution of free medications.
(el Amigo/MNM)