By Liza Soriano
MANILA – During a visit to the Vatican, former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri was urged by Pope Francis to protect the family.
“Pope Francis asked me to please protect the family, and this is an instruction that I will take to heart,” Zubiri shared.
The Philippines remains the last country in the world not to recognize divorce.
“We prayed for our beloved country and for our leaders to always find discernment and to do what is right, even when it is not popular,” said Zubiri, who has expressed openness to discussion but maintains a strong belief in the sanctity and indissolubility of marriage.
A bill legalizing divorce has recently been approved in the House of Representatives.
During their meeting, Zubiri explained to the Pope that he is a pro-life and pro-family legislator from the Philippines. The Pope responded by asking him to “please protect the family.”
“Lolo Kiko is so special to us Filipinos, and I got the feeling that he holds us in a special place in his heart and prayers as well, as one of the most devoutly Catholic nations in the world,” Zubiri said.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri announced on Monday (June 3, 2024) that he plans to file cyber libel cases against individuals spreading unsubstantiated claims about him.
Zubiri stated that the black propaganda, disseminated through videos spreading rumors on social media, was perfectly timed to coincide with his ouster as the Senate leader.
“They released the first set of videos two months ago, during the initial attempt to unseat me. When that failed, they produced a second video, which was released during the week of the second attempt. The timing is impeccable,” the senator said.
“It’s an obvious attempt to discredit my leadership and tarnish my reputation. They are investing substantial amounts of money into this campaign, from production to promotion,” he added.
Zubiri said he will be filing cases against those spreading lies, alleging that he is “pocketing government money to buy mansions and jets,” adding that these allegations are “totally false.”
“I hope they’re ready because I will be filing cases and will not stop until justice prevails.”
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has expressed his opposition to divorce, emphasizing his stance as a “conservative lawmaker” and his support for family unity.
“I frown on any bills that will separate our families. We don’t want to be like Las Vegas weddings—suddenly, right? We get married today, and if we don’t want it, we separate next month. That’s not right,” Zubiri said when asked about his position on the divorce bill.
“I think we should study it to make sure we don’t end up like other countries where the family is very dysfunctional,” he added.
Senator Cynthia Villar also opposes the divorce bill, saying she was surprised that the House of Representatives approved the proposed Absolute Divorce Act on the third and final reading.
“But as for me, everyone knows I have a very happy family life, so I’m not in favor of divorce,” Villar said.
Meanwhile, Zubiri believes that the bill will be a conscience vote in the chamber.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA, Philippines — Former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and his allies have formed the “Magic 7” bloc as the Senate prepares to finalize its reorganization following a recent leadership change.
On Monday, Sen. Francis Escudero orchestrated a coup d’état against Zubiri, securing the signatures of 13 senators to unseat him.
Despite this, Zubiri retained the support of his “seatmates” group, which includes Senators Juan Edgardo Angara, Nancy Binay, Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito, Sherwin Gatchalian, Loren Legarda, and Joel Villanueva.
“We have the full support of one another. For better or for worse, the seatmates will be together,” Zubiri said in a chance interview, emphasizing that their group remains “independent.”
Zubiri expressed his heartbreak upon learning that Sen. Ronald dela Rosa had signed the petition to remove him as Senate president.
Zubiri believes that Dela Rosa’s ongoing inquiry into the so-called Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) “leaks” contributed to his ousting.
The controversial document allegedly identified high-profile personalities using drugs, including then-Senator, now-President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and actress Maricel Soriano.
“I’m dumbfounded. At least he (dela Rosa) knew that I defended him as the chairman of the committee on public order tasked with probing the controversy. And because of that, I was sacrificed and removed from the position,” Zubiri lamented.
Despite the upheaval, Zubiri urged everyone to move on, acknowledging the harsh realities of politics. “It’s just that I am in shock. That’s politics. There are no permanent friends, only permanent interests. It’s very surreal. It feels like I’m in a twilight zone,” he said.
Several committee chairmanships have been vacated by Zubiri’s allies and are now up for grabs. Some senators in the majority bloc have also expressed willingness to relinquish their committee chairmanships.
Newly installed Senate President Pro Tempore Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada, who heads the committees on labor and national defense, has indicated his readiness to offer the labor committee chairmanship to Villanueva.
Sen. Imee Marcos is reportedly considering giving up one or two of the four committees she currently handles, which include foreign relations, cooperatives, electoral reforms, people’s participation, and social justice, welfare, and rural development.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri’s resignation as Senate President became an emotional affair as he expressed his gratitude to his fellow senators.
Zubiri also highlighted his achievements during his tenure.
“We have been fair-minded and truth-driven in the Senate despite the political noise that often surrounds us. We have been a compassionate Senate, listening to and acting on our people’s call for decent jobs, equitable wages, and accessible healthcare,” Zubiri said.
Zubiri became teary-eyed as he thanked the senators individually.
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva also announced his resignation as Senate Majority Leader.
“Thank you, guys, for your trust and confidence. God bless our beloved Senate! Signing off as your Majority Leader,” Villanueva stated.
Zubiri confirmed that Senator Chiz Escudero will succeed him as Senate President.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri stated that amending the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution will significantly benefit the country’s economy.
Zubiri introduced Resolution of Both Houses No. 6, which seeks to amend Articles 12, 14, and 16 of the Constitution. This resolution aims to address restrictions on foreign ownership in public utilities, educational institutions, and the advertising industry.
“Imagine if Texas Instruments suddenly pulled out of the country; how many thousands of jobs would be lost? We need more investments like this. We are already behind Vietnam and Indonesia because they offer very attractive incentive packages and have no legal restrictions that prevent them from attracting investors,” he said.
Baguio City Representative Mark Go cited findings from the Asian Development Bank, noting that in 2022, investments in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) totaled $224 billion.
Singapore received $141 billion in foreign direct investments, Indonesia $21.97 billion, Vietnam $17.9 billion, Malaysia $17.1 billion, Thailand $9.94 billion, and the Philippines $9.02 billion.
Earlier, the Senate conducted a hearing on the Constitutional amendments in Baguio City, describing the Baguio public consultations as “very encouraging.”
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has vowed continued support for the islands in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and the uniformed personnel stationed there.
“Patuloy nating susuportahan ang mga proyekto at programang ikauunlad ng Pag-asa. This is how we defend the West Philippine Sea – by taking care of our people and helping them build a stronger and larger community here,” Zubiri said during his visit to Kalayaan Island.
He was accompanied by Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito, and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro during his visit.
Zubiri stated that, given their control over the national budget, they would allocate additional funds for the development of the islands in the WPS.
He also mentioned that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard would receive funding for additional equipment.
However, he did not specify what these devices were, noting that Chinese militia and China Coast Guard ships, positioned just a few miles from Pag-asa Island, might be listening.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri stated on Friday (May 17, 2024) that the Senate hearing in Baguio City regarding Constitutional amendments was “very encouraging,” noting that a significant majority supported lifting economic restrictions.
“Today’s hearing was very encouraging because, as you noticed, almost 95 percent are in favor of lifting the economic restrictions in the Constitution,” Zubiri told reporters.
He mentioned that senators will also hold hearings in Cebu and Cagayan de Oro before completing the committee report.
Zubiri believes that the majority will sign the committee report prepared by Senator Sonny Angara, chairperson of the Subcommittee on Resolution of Both Houses No. 6, and hopes to persuade opposing senators to sign as well.
“I think we will be able to get a majority to sign the committee report of Senator Sonny Angara and the subcommittee,” he said.
“We do have some senators opposing this, so we need to convince them that this is beneficial for our country,” Zubiri added.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri delivered a strong message to China on Thursday (16 May 2024), demanding the immediate withdrawal of any Chinese presence from Pag-asa Island, asserting that it belongs to the Philippines.
Zubiri, accompanied by Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva and Senator JV Ejercito, visited the island to erect a three-story barracks for Philippine Navy (PN) personnel and a health unit. They were joined by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., who arrived on an Air Force plane.
“If they are listening, this is the Republic of the Philippines territory. This is not yours,” Zubiri declared during the groundbreaking ceremony.
During their visit, a China Coast Guard vessel and at least 20 Chinese maritime militia vessels were observed near Pag-asa Island.
“This is ours even before [Ferdinand] Magellan [discovered the Philippines]. So, get out,” Zubiri stated, addressing the Chinese presence.
Enhancing Infrastructure for Security
Zubiri urged the Armed Forces of the Philippines to submit their “wish list” for further infrastructure improvements to benefit both the military and civilian population on the island.
He emphasized that constructing military facilities on Pag-asa Island would bolster the presence of the PN in the West Philippine Sea and deter illegal Chinese incursions.
“Our investment in infrastructure on Pag-asa Island is our investment in our security in the West Philippine Sea,” Zubiri said in his speech.
Continued Development
The senator highlighted the allocation of P30 million for the Super Rural Health Unit and P20 million for the Navy barracks in the 2024 national budget. Additionally, he secured P2.5 million for a disaster response and rescue vehicle for the municipality.
“This is just the start. We will continue to strengthen our defense posture here in Kalayaan and support the development of the municipality as a thriving community and an ecotourism destination,” Zubiri added.
Safety and Preparedness
Defense Secretary Teodoro reassured the residents, numbering under 200, of their safety despite the ongoing Chinese presence. He noted that no rational nation would attack civilians.
Teodoro also mentioned that contingency protocols are in place to evacuate residents if necessary.
“The West Philippine Sea is the hope of the Philippines. We cannot abandon it. We need to fight for it. We need to inhabit it to make it sustainable,” Teodoro emphasized.
Legislative Support
On the same day, House Speaker Martin Romualdez requested the Philippine Coast Guard to submit a comprehensive modernization plan to the House of Representatives. This plan aims to enhance the Coast Guard’s capabilities in patrolling and safeguarding Philippine territories in the West Philippine Sea.
“Our national security and sovereignty are paramount,” Romualdez stated, underscoring the need for a robust defense strategy.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri criticized the problems experienced by passengers in the country’s international and domestic airports, saying that it “seems to not do justice to what our beautiful country has to offer.”
“Huwag po nating pahiyain ang ating bansa sa mga ganitong klaseng pagkukulang natin bilang public servants,” Zubiri said.
“We cannot subject our people to this level of inefficiency, and these low standards of service,” he added.
Zubiri said every week he gets reports from friends from various regions about their awful experiences in airports, from defective air conditioning units and escalators to the lack of chairs in waiting lounges.
This is aside from the perennial problem of flight delays and cancellations.
Meanwhile, the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has vowed to repair the faulty escalators in Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 2 and 3.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri cautioned on Tuesday (May 7, 2024) against the use of Senate hearings for political persecution by witnesses.
During a press conference, Zubiri emphasized that hearsay cannot serve as evidence, stressing the necessity of factual evidence to establish an individual’s guilt.
The senator’s remarks came in the wake of the Committee on Public Order’s hearing on the alleged involvement of veteran actress Maricel Soriano and the President in illegal drug activities, based on leaked documents from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
“There must be a preponderance of evidence to arrive at the right answers and conclusions,” he asserted.
“Let’s be cautious. Let’s not allow ourselves to be used for political persecution,” the lawmaker added.
Meanwhile, Senator Jinggoy Estrada questioned the credibility of former PDEA agent Jonathan Morales, who was dishonorably discharged from service. Morales had attested to the supposed authenticity of leaked 2012 documents allegedly implicating the President.
“You’re mentioning names of personalities, including the President and a prominent actress, without evidence, claiming it came from an informant. Now you’re saying you can’t remember?” the senator remarked.
Soriano appeared before the lawmakers, admitting ownership of condo unit 46-C in Rizal Tower, Rockwell, Makati City, which was subject to a PDEA operation in 2012.
However, Soriano stated that she sold the property in 2012, though she couldn’t recall the exact month.
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri is urging President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to consider the Senate-passed bill, the P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act.
Zubiri emphasized that the legislated minimum wage hike would be “the best gift that the President can give to all our workers.”
“I am in full agreement with our President’s call for the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Boards to regularly review our minimum wages, and for the National Wages and Productivity Commission to ensure that the boards do so,” stated the Senate President.
“Furthermore, I urgently appeal to our President to consider Senate Bill No. 2534, or the P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act. This would mark a significant step toward providing our hardworking laborers with the living wages they deserve. Perhaps it could even be certified as urgent, given the ongoing spike in the prices of goods due to inflation.”
The bill was approved in the Senate on its third and final reading in February and is currently pending in the House of Representatives.
Zubiri, the primary author of the minimum wage increase bill, is hopeful for a counterpart bill from the House.
“All we require is the House counterpart measure, and its impact will be immediately felt across the sector.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri hopes that the lower chamber will pass the P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act to improve the working conditions of Filipino workers.
“This country thrives on the hard work of our labor force. They drive our industries, and any economic progress we achieve owes much to their dedication,” Zubiri stated on Labor Day, May 1.
“Despite their pivotal role in our economy, however, our workers often find themselves undervalued for their contributions. Therefore, we in the Senate stand in solidarity with every Filipino worker, advocating for their rights, from fairer wages to safer work environments,” he added.
In February, the Senate approved on third and final reading of Senate Bill 2534, titled “An Act Providing for a 100 Pesos Daily Minimum Wage Increase for Employees and Workers in the Private Sector.”
The Commission on Human Rights also expressed support for the legislation, affirming that an increase in the daily minimum wage is a “positive step towards enhancing the Filipino workforce.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri on Monday (April 29, 2024) urged the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to immediately revert to pre-pandemic school calendar instead of having a gradual shift.
“Aside from exposing our students and teachers to the dangers of extreme heat, I honestly believe that the prevailing weather conditions during summer are not conducive to learning,” Zubiri said.
“Kaya kung pwede sana, huwag na natin hintayin ang School Year 2025-2026. Kung kayang ipatupad sa susunod na school year, gawin na natin at kawawa ang ating mga estudyante sa susunod na summer,” the Senate chief added.
Zubiri said he also withdrew Senate Bill No. 788, filed at the start of the 19th Congress, which synchronizes the school year to start in August.
DepEd earlier released a statement that the original proposal of gradual reversion of the school calendar was five years and has now been reduced to two years and further reducing it would have impacts on the students’ learning outcomes.
Some face-to-face classes were suspended due to the high heat index.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri expressed his readiness to fight for the country as he accepted his Lieutenant Colonel rank in the Philippine Army Reserves on Monday (April 8, 2024).
Zubiri emphasized the shared responsibility between himself and the Philippine Army in protecting the sovereignty and democracy of the country. He highlighted his advocacy for military modernization and increased budget allocation in the Senate.
“It is a great honor to finally come to the culmination of that partnership, as I now take on the responsibility of being a reserve Lieutenant Colonel of the Army, prepared to defend the country not only in the halls of the Senate but also out in our war rooms and on the field, alongside you all,” Zubiri expressed.
Acknowledging the weight of his new role, Zubiri conveyed his respect for the dedication and skills of the men and women of the Army, recognizing that no reservist could ever fully measure up to their commitment.
The ceremony was witnessed by officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), including AFP Chief-of-Staff General Romeo S. Brawner, a former head of the Philippine Army, along with Brigadier General Daniel Tansip, Brigadier General Bernardo Fortez, and Major General Romulo Manuel.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has reiterated that he is no longer considering seeking public office and is contemplating retiring from politics after serving in public service for 30 years.
“To dispel any arising rumors, I want to clarify that I will not be running for any public office in 2028, and I am indeed contemplating retirement after nearly three decades in politics,” Zubiri stated.
These remarks follow his review of the Pulse Asia survey results, which showed a 7 percent preference rating among politicians mentioned as potential vice presidential candidates.
“Any survey results indicating positive feedback for me and our institution serve as a testament to the Senate’s enduring commitment to delivering quality service to our citizens,” he added.
In 2023, Zubiri stated that he was not seeking a higher position.
“At this juncture, I have no political ambitions; I am looking forward to retiring in 2028. By then, I will have served in elected office for 25 years. After participating in numerous elections, I am feeling weary,” the senator previously remarked.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said that the Senate would still give another chance to the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) to attend hearing before being arrested after ignoring the summons of the upper house.
“Kausapin ko muna si Senator Risa (Hontiveros) kasi, naglabas na ng ruling ang Supreme Court sa Pharmally issue regarding the indirect contempt. So, under the ruling of the Supreme Court, we must exhaust all legal avenues. In other words, due process,” Zubiri said.
“So, ang request ko kay Senator Risa, all she has to do is to come up with another committee hearing. Maybe today or tomorrow or Monday, to give a show cause order,” he added.
Quiboloy has never attended any hearing conducted by the Senate.
Earlier, the Senate issued a subpoena against Quiboloy for not attending the legislative inquiry on the alleged child abuse and human trafficking case of the pastor.
According to Hontivero’s camp, the senator is scheduled to discuss the matter with Zubiri.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Several senators have voiced their support for Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri amidst swirling rumors of his potential replacement by fellow senator Jinggoy Estrada.
Senators Win Gatchalian and Sonny Angara are among those who have endorsed Zubiri’s leadership by signing a resolution in his favor.
“I have already signed the resolution in support of the Senate President,” Angara affirmed.
Addressing the recurrent rumors, Angara stated, “The rumors keep resurfacing, and we just want to put this issue to rest so that we can focus on our legislative duties effectively.”
“There isn’t any undue pressure. Our main goal is to ensure that these rumors aren’t fabricated. I believe the Senate President is reaching out to everyone,” he added.
Gatchalian echoed similar sentiments, saying, “The resolution serves as an expression of gratitude and acknowledgment for his leadership… I’ve not heard of any coup, and the way the Senate President has defended our institution speaks volumes.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri signed the subpoena of Kingdom of Jesus Christ pastor Apollo Carreon Quiboloy on Monday (19 Feb 2024) morning ordering him to appear before the Senate on the alleged sexual abuse and human trafficking.
The subpoena orders Quiboloy to attend Senate hearings on Monday (26 Feb 2024).
Quiboloy has not yet attended any of the hearings in the Upper House.
Senator Risa Hontiveros has expressed her gratitude to Zubiri for his move on signing the subpoena.
“Hindi din po tayo papayag na sabihin sa mga victim-survivor na ‘Teka muna, meron tayong krisis pampulitika. Wait lang tayo kasi tatapusin pa ang mga ibang issues’,” she said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri vowed on Friday (16 Feb 2024) that he would sign the subpoena for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy upon his return to the Senate.
This action is part of the ongoing probe against Quiboloy regarding alleged human trafficking and sexual abuse.
“I have been informed by my staff that the subpoena for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy has been prepared and is now ready for my signature. I am currently in the Visayas for several engagements, but I will sign all necessary documents upon my return,” Zubiri stated.
Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed urgency, stating that they could not afford to wait for the subpoena.
“In the meantime, the committee cannot delay awaiting the subpoena. We will proceed with the hearing, especially since we have a second batch of witnesses,” Hontiveros emphasized.
(el Amigo/MNM)