By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada is urging an investigation into the ambush of four Army soldiers in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur to evaluate the peace and security situation in the region.
“Despite substantial government resources being allocated to comprehensive peace efforts and addressing the root causes of insurgency and violent extremism over the years through a whole-of-nation approach, the threat to security and stability in the area persists,” stated the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security.
Estrada submitted Senate Resolution No. 984, calling for the appropriate committee to assess the performance of the military and law enforcement agencies, ensuring that necessary measures are in place to safeguard the country.
The lawmaker emphasized that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) must receive full support in eradicating lawless elements who engage in acts of terror, chaos, and violence, instilling fear and undermining public safety.
“Given the looming threat of further attacks, the public needs assurance that the military establishment and law enforcement authorities are effectively managing the situation. Upholding and fostering lasting peace are primary objectives of the State as it strives for inclusive development and sustainable economic growth,” remarked Estrada.
The victims of the March 17 attack, dressed in civilian clothing and traveling in a civilian vehicle, were returning to the military patrol base after purchasing food for “Iftar” for the Muslim community in the area.
They were ambushed along Tuayan 1 road in Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Maguindanao.
(El Amigo/MNM)
By Dang Samson-Garcia
SENATOR Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada backed a bill that seeks to require private universities and colleges to waive entrance examination fees for poor but bright students.
“Ang hindi pagbayad sa entrance exam fee ay malaking bagay na para sa mga mag-aaral natin, lalo na para sa kanila na nasa pribadong paaralan ang mga napupusuang kurso o para sa mga mag-aaral na ang pinakamalapit na paaralan sa kanilang tahanan ay pribadong institusyon,” Estrada said.
Under Senate Bill 2441, eligible students must come from families whose parents live below the poverty line, as determined by the National Economic and Development Authority and the Department of Social Welfare and Development. They also must belong to the top 10 percent of their graduating class.
Estrada cited the increasing number of high school graduates in the country, as indicated by the 2020 census conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
“Ang pagdami ng bilang ng mga high school graduates ay marapat lamang na suportahan ng ating pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng pagsisiguro ng patuloy na pag-aaral nila sa kolehiyo. Isang paraan upang makamit ito ay ang pagsasabatas ng ‘Free College Entrance Examinations Act,’” Estrada said.
The senator said that the measure broadens students’ options for colleges and universities to pursue their studies and at the same time opens the doors of private higher education institutions to high-achieving students who will undoubtedly contribute to their reputation and performance.