By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. told the Philippine National Police Academy’s (PNPA) graduates to let the school’s core values of justice, integrity, and service “be the wind that propels them forward.”
Marcos made these remarks during the 45th PNPA Commencement Exercises for the Layag-Diwa Class of 2024.
“Let me remind you that your career should not be measured by the speed you have moved up the ranks alone, but by the quality of the service that you have given to our people,” the President said.
“The service you are about to consecrate your life to is not a race to collect insignia nor accumulate prized assignments. It is to do as much good as often to as many without expecting any reward in return because service itself is our reward,” he added.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), of 223 graduating PNPA cadets, 199 will serve the PNP, 12 will be enlisted at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and another 12 will join the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Despite the contradicting statements of two top officials of the previous administration, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday (10 April 2024) said he was “horrified” by the alleged “gentleman’s agreement” between his predecessor Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the West Philippine Sea.
“I am horrified at the idea that we have compromised through a secret agreement the territory, sovereignty, and sovereign rights of the Philippines,” Marcos Jr. bluntly said.
Former Palace spokesman Harry Roque earlier claimed that Duterte and Xi had agreed to keep the “status quo” in the Ayungin Shoal, where the World War Two-era ship BRP Sierra Madre is deliberately grounded since 1999 during the administration of then President Joseph “Erap” Estrada.
But former Presidential Chief Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo retorted that Duterte himself said there was no such deal.
Marcos Jr. said he was not “briefed” by the officials of the former administration regarding the alleged agreement.
“We don’t know anything about it. There was no documentation, there was no record. We were not briefed about when I came into office, walang nagsabi sa amin na merong ganong usapan,” the President maintained.
For her part, opposition leader Senator Risa Hontiveros said such a deal can be considered an act of treason.
She has filed Senate Resolution No. 982 calling for a probe into the “secret deal” between Duterte and Xi Jinping.
“And, in the words of former Philippine Navy flag officer-in-command Eduardo Santos, an act of treason. This ‘gentleman’s agreement’ is treasonous,” Hontiveros said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA – The Marcos administration is actively engaging with Congress to ensure the passage of “game-changing” tax laws aimed at driving economic growth, according to Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan on Thursday (04 April 2024).
“In 2024, the economic team will vigorously advocate for the enactment of essential next-generation reforms to further facilitate the transformation of our economy and ensure sustained inclusive growth,” Balisacan stated during a Palace press briefing.
Balisacan emphasized that the current administration is committed to pushing for comprehensive tax administration reforms designed to modernize and streamline the Philippine tax system.
He highlighted ample opportunities for enhancing tax administration efficiency within the country.
“We need to be pragmatic in identifying the necessary tax measures to accelerate Philippine economic growth. Improving tax administration and identifying readily implementable tax measures are key priorities,” Balisacan remarked. “Moreover, addressing our debt concerns becomes feasible with robust economic growth.”
Balisacan underscored the close collaboration between the Executive branch and Congress to enhance economic efficiency and effectiveness through the enactment of new fiscal measures.
He noted the joint efforts of the Legislative-Executive Development Council to prioritize debt and fiscal measures.
“We are diligently collaborating with our counterparts in Congress to pass pivotal legislation spanning various sectors, fulfilling our commitment to advancing the Executive and Legislative’s Common Legislative Agenda,” Balisacan affirmed.
“We will supplement these efforts by working closely with Congress to enact priority tax reform measures, refining revenue mobilization strategies to better align with the country’s fiscal needs and prevailing domestic circumstances,” he added.
In a separate statement, the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) highlighted the potential of enhanced tax administration reforms to enhance the government’s revenue performance by modernizing and enhancing the efficiency of the Philippine tax system.
The DBCC outlined several reforms, including the value-added tax on non-resident digital service providers, the excise tax on single-use plastics, Package 4 of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program, rationalization of the mining fiscal regime, and reform of the motor vehicle user charge.
(By El Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Four years before the next presidential elections, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, who both made history as the first majority-elected candidates in a multiparty contest, have now suffered a drastic drop in their public approval and trust ratings.
This was revealed on Wednesday (3 April 2024) by the first quarter survey of Publicus Asia’s Pahayag 2024 which attributed the duo’s ratings plummeting to the public’s growing concerns regarding issues such as inflation, corruption and perceived weak leadership.
Marcos Jr. and VP Sara’s approval ratings dropped to their lowest levels since the third quarter of 2022 — from 58 percent for the fourth quarter of 2023 to 44 percent for the first quarter of 2024 for the President and from 59 percent to 53 percent for the vice president.
PBBM notably lost points even in his bailiwick of North-Central Luzon, where his approval rating dropped from 62 percent to 52 percent. In South Luzon, his approval rating dropped from 55 percent to 43 percent, and in the Visayas, from 57 percent to 40 percent.
On the other hand, VP Sara’s rating fall was most notable in South Luzon, from 51 percent to 40 percent; North-Central Luzon, from 56 percent to 47 percent; and the National Capital Region (NCR), from 52 percent to 47 percent.
The NCR recorded the highest disapproval for Duterte at 34 percent.
Meanwhile, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez’s approval rating also dived from 36 percent to 25 percent, the poll showed.
It can be noted that Mindanao recorded the highest disapproval rating at 39 percent, closely followed by the Visayas at 37 percent, where Romualdez represents Leyte’s first district.
Romualdez is widely believed to be the most likely “anointed one” by his cousin PBBM for the 2028 presidential race.
Some Visayan political leaders are backing Romualdez to be the country’s first Waray-Waray president.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos continue to experience flu-like symptoms but have shown notable improvements, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Friday (March 22, 2024).
“Their vital signs remain stable, and they remain in a comfortable state. Both have received advice to continue their prescribed medications, ensure adequate fluid intake, and prioritize rest,” stated the PCO.
“The medical team will closely monitor their progress until they fully recover. We appreciate the public’s concern and well wishes. Further updates will be provided as necessary.”
Marcos and his wife developed flu-like symptoms following their full schedule in the past few days and were advised to take fluids and medication to alleviate their symptoms.
Their attending physician has advised them to get some rest to ensure a speedy recovery.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos are reported to be showing signs of improvement but continue to battle flu-like symptoms the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Thursday (21 March 2024).
“The President and the First Lady are still experiencing flu-like symptoms, albeit with some improvements, and their vital signs remain stable,” remarked the PCO.
“They have been advised to persist with their medications, prioritize rest, and maintain proper hydration for a complete recovery,” it further added.
The PCO mentioned that despite their health condition, the President is actively managing official matters from his residence, adhering to medical advice regarding workload and activities.
It was also noted that Marcos is looking forward to resuming his full range of public engagements once he receives clearance from his physician.
In light of his health situation, the President has decided to cancel his scheduled events in the coming days.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has called upon the employees of the Office of the President to prioritize efficiency in their service to the public.
“We are reminded of the fact that the Office of the President is a 127-year-old institution. It is important to remember this because we have to, once in a while, take a step back, take a breath, and recognize the importance of the work that we do,” Marcos said during the flag-raising ceremony in Malacañang.
“We have been entrusted with a great responsibility by our people, and it is incumbent upon us to fulfill it. We must strive to make our people proud of us,” he added.
Marcos made these remarks during the celebration of the anniversary of the OP.
According to Marcos, the work of the OP significantly contributes to the strength of the country’s leadership.
“Sometimes, due to the volume of work, we may overlook the significance of each task as merely another item on our to-do list. However, the reality is that every project, every decision, and every policy implementation impacts the entire Philippines,” Marcos emphasized.
“That’s why we must excel in our duties. We must always strive to remember our love for the Philippines and our fellow Filipinos,” the President stressed.
The Office of the President was established on March 22, 1897, through Administrative Order No. 322, s. 1997, adopting the stance of the National Historical Institute Board.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has honored the women and acknowledged their invaluable role that they play in society that drive progress during the celebration of International Women’s Day.
“In an age marked by rapid growth and transformation, it is imperative for the global community to honor the incalculable worth of women’s contributions across all facets of society and sustain the gains that have emerged from their countless struggles and sacrifices,” he said in his message.
“Yet, within our relentless pursuit of progress, we must confront the inequalities and disparities that still persist. By ending gender-based violence, discrimination, and biases that cast shadows over the realization of women’s dreams, we actively engage in a mission that nurtures equity, inclusion, and empowerment.”
Marcos also urged the public to help achieve an inclusive society.
“Through our collective efforts, have faith that we will bring about a kind of change that stands the test of time, resonates across borders, and reverberates in the core of our societies.,” he said.
“Always remember that, by amplifying the voices of women, championing their rights, and reinforcing their fundamental freedom, we, in turn, elevate entire communities and nations, propelling ourselves towards a stronger, more equitable, and more progressive world for all,” Marcos pointed out.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed on Thursday 29 Feb 2024) that his recent two-day journey to Canberra played a pivotal role in advancing the ties between the Philippines and Australia.
Reflecting on his trip, Marcos emphasized that Australia continues to be one of the Philippines’ staunchest allies. He underscored the importance of the visit in materializing the potential of their bilateral relationship, transitioning it from a comprehensive to a strategic partnership.
“In the spirit of unity and camaraderie, we are committed to fully harnessing the opportunities brought forth by this strategic partnership between our two forward-thinking, law-abiding maritime nations. I eagerly anticipate our relentless pursuit of this vision,” Marcos stated.
During his visit, Marcos, invited by the Australian government as a guest to address the Australian Parliament, engaged in fruitful discussions with the country’s parliamentary leaders. He highlighted the significance of garnering their support to cultivate a conducive policy environment conducive to advancing bilateral relations.
“I stressed to the Australian legislators the vital roles both nations play as advocates of the rules-based international order, particularly in navigating the complexities of global geopolitics,” Marcos remarked.
Furthermore, Marcos underscored the importance of fostering a mutually beneficial economic relationship to bolster economic resilience and achieve inclusive growth for both nations.
“We also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of our longstanding people-to-people connections in fortifying and inspiring our efforts toward closer Philippine-Australian ties,” he added.
During his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Marcos explored avenues to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, and security. Additionally, three agreements were inked between the Philippines and Australia in the fields of maritime cooperation, cyber and critical technology, and the implementation of competition laws.
“These agreements lay the groundwork for further collaboration, information exchange, and capacity-building initiatives, envisioned to deepen bilateral relations and contribute to regional development, peace, and prosperity,” Marcos concluded.
(el Amigo/MNM/With reports from PNA)
By Liezelle Soriano
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has expressed his gratitude to the United States government for providing emergency assistance to calamity victims in Mindanao.
Marcos conveyed his appreciation during a courtesy call in Malacañang with US Ambassador to the Philippines Marykay Loss Carlson.
“When you ask for assistance and it is needed, we are here. Teams from USAID, JUSMAG, and our team from INDOPACOM have been deployed… it’s impressive to see how your own DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) efficiently coordinates relief supplies,” Carlson remarked.
“There’s much that can be accomplished more efficiently through existing mechanisms… however, sometimes an extra push is needed, and it also showcases how effectively the alliance can deliver,” Carlson added.
In addition to providing C-130s, the US government has extended US$1.25 million in emergency support, Carlson noted, emphasizing that the successful delivery of much-needed aid underscores the value of the Philippine-US alliance.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — In an insightful Pulse Asia survey commissioned by the Stratbase Institute, eight out of ten Filipinos expressed a strong desire for the Marcos Jr. administration to collaborate with the United States amid the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The survey, conducted from December 3 to 7, 2023, encompassing 1,200 respondents nationwide, presented compelling insights into the public’s sentiments.
Released during the forum “Fortifying Cyber Cooperation Towards Digital Security,” organized by the Stratbase Institute, the survey disclosed that 79 percent of Filipinos advocate for the government to work closely with the US. Additionally, almost half of the respondents believe that forging partnerships with Australia (43 percent) and Japan (42 percent) would be beneficial.
A noteworthy 52 percent of participants expressed the need for the government to strengthen its military presence in the WPS. This includes initiatives such as the repair of the beached and rusting BRP Sierra Madre, regular resupply missions, and ensuring control of the Ayungin Shoal.
The survey results underline a distinct preference for collaboration with like-minded states such as the US, Australia, and Japan. Professor Dindo Manhit, President of Stratbase, emphasized the significance of these alliances, noting that these countries consistently voice their support for the Philippines and condemn Chinese actions in the WPS.
Manhit emphasized, “As evidenced by the survey results, 90 percent of Filipinos are not in favor of working with China. This is only natural, as the Philippines continues to encounter aggressive and coercive acts in the West Philippine Sea.”
In addition to diplomatic protests, the Philippines is taking decisive steps, including an exit from China’s Belt and Road Initiative, as revealed by Manhit.
(By el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has announced the implementation of new ideas and commitments within the Department of Finance (DOF) under the leadership of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto.
“We have embraced numerous new ideas and commitments to enhance the economy,” Marcos stated.
The Chief Executive expressed confidence in Recto’s ability to introduce innovative concepts crucial for the economic transformation of the country.
Marcos clarified that while new initiatives are on the horizon, the policies within the agency will remain unchanged.
“So, the policies remain the same. Fiscal discipline will remain intact,” he affirmed.
The President also mentioned that his economic team is in the process of formulating a list of priorities, focusing on specific projects and further developing proposals generated during his foreign trips.
(el Amigo/MNM)
Ni Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Inihayag ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. na aabot sa 177 ang bilang ng mga pulis sa National Capital Region (NCR) na ipinagharap ng mga kasong may kinalaman sa droga noong 2023.
Kabilang sa mga ikinaso ang pagtatanim ng ebidensiya, unlawful arrest at excessive force.
“Alam naman natin na kung minsan, nadadala ang ating mga opisyal at siyempre hindi natin maaaring pabayaan ‘yan. Kaya ang nangyari ay 177 police officers have been charged with drug-related offenses, including the planting of evidence, unlawful arrests, and excessive violence, dito palang sa NCR,” ayon kay Marcos.
Binigyang-diin ng Pangulo na ang laban kontra ilegal na droga ay paiigtingin pa ngayong taon.
Nauna nang sinabi ni Marcos na tutugunan niya ang isyu sa ilegal na droga sa pamamagitan ng treatment at rehabilitation.
Dagdag pa niya, aabot sa 121,582 ang bilang ng mga nakulong dahil sa mga kasong may kinalaman sa droga mula nang magsimula ang kanyang termino noong 2022.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has Saturday (30 Dec 2023) called on Filipinos to embody Dr. Jose Rizal’s “genuine love” for the Philippines by fostering a “deep and personal” connection to their homeland and future.
“On the 127th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal, I urge all of you to continue emulating the timeless values found in his life and works,” Marcos stated in his message for this year’s Rizal Day commemoration.
He further implored everyone to let the authentic love for the country that Rizal exemplified guide them toward a profound and personal sense of ownership for their land and future.
More than a century after Rizal’s demise, his influence persists in a world still grappling with various forms of greed, oppression, and injustice, Marcos noted.
The President encouraged everyone to strive to “walk with the same purpose, passion, and nationalism,” overcoming challenges and working towards a brighter tomorrow.
“With our meaningful commemoration, may the ideals and spirit of Dr. Jose Rizal live on as we fully realize the Philippines that he and his contemporaries fought hard for,” he emphasized.
Marcos highlighted that Rizal’s martyrdom played a pivotal role in consolidating the Philippine independence movement, ultimately giving birth to the nation.
He underscored that Rizal’s sacrifice was the culmination of a lifetime commitment that began in his youth and childhood, embracing the wisdom of family, teachers, and peers, leading to a lifelong pursuit of excellence for a greater goal.
The President, accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and their children, led the ceremony for the 127th anniversary of Rizal’s martyrdom at Rizal Park in the City of Manila.
After a simultaneous flag-raising ceremony across historical sites nationwide, Marcos offered a wreath at the Rizal National Monument.
This year’s theme for the commemorative rites is “Rizal: Pundasyon ng Kahapon, Isinasabuhay Ngayon” (Rizal: Foundation of Yesterday, Lived Today).
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), in collaboration with various government agencies, organized several activities in honor of Rizal.
Rizal was executed on Dec. 30, 1896, at 7 a.m. by a firing squad at Bagumbayan (now Rizal Park) on orders of the Spanish colonial government for the crime of rebellion after the Philippine Revolution broke out, mainly inspired by his writings.
On Dec. 20, 1898, then-president Emilio Aguinaldo issued a decree declaring Dec. 30 as a day of national mourning for Rizal and other patriots who died during Spanish rule.
The Philippine Commission, in 1902, enacted a law declaring Dec. 30 as Rizal Day, making it an official holiday.
(Jr Amigo/IA/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Acknowledging the “weakness” of the political opposition, two political analysts have agreed that it should ally — for now — with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., particularly on the issue of West Philippine Sea (WPS) in the face of China’s aggressive moves and against the Dutertes’ apparent intent to seize power.
Political analysts Ronald Llamas and Richard Heydarian in their vlog agreed that PBBM “is not the enemy” of the opposition but those who serve the interests of China which had became “spoiled” during the six years term of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.
“I hope they (the opposition) can put up a bigger tent for the 2025 midterm elections,” Llamas told Heydarian in their exchanges on the latter’s vlog.
Earlier, he noted that during the recent Christmas party of the Liberal Party at the house of LP president and Albay Representative Edcel Lagman, only the Makabayan bloc stalwarts were invited.
Former Senators Antonio “Sonny”Trillanes IV of Magdalo and Bam Aquino and Chel Diokno of Kaya Natin, Sen. Risa Hontiveros and Llamas of Akbayan were not invited.
To recall in 2022, the opposition was also not able to establish a “big tent” due to the alleged blocking of Trillanes to the inclusion of Neri Colmenares of Makabayan bloc into their Senate slate.
Only Hontiveros won from the senatorial bets of the opposition.
He added that it is now obvious that there’s a “civil war” between the Marcos loyalists and the DDS (Duterte Diehard Supporters).
“It all started early this year with the Tambaloslos (remark),” Llamas noted.
He was referring to Vice President Sara Duterte’s insulting reaction apparently targeting Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez after her political mentor former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was stripped of her position as Senior Deputy House Speaker.
Heydarian also commented that the opposition could now be a “de facto UniTeam” with PBBM with regards to standing up against China in the WPS issue and against Duterte returning to power.
Llamas said he believes Duterte will run for Senate in 2025 “to rally his remaining DDS.”
However, he added that although Duterte emerged as the number one choice for senator in 2025 in a recent survey but his “approval and popularity ratings” have significantly dropped to only about 40 percent unlike his time when he was president.
(IA/MNM)
By El Amigo
MANILA — The latest survey conducted by Publicus Asia Inc. revealed an increasing dissatisfaction among Filipinos with the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The Pahayag End of the Year survey, conducted from November 29 to December 4, indicates a notable decline in pro-administration sentiment, dropping from 50 percent in the third quarter to 46 percent in the fourth quarter.
Publicus Asia reported that anti-administration sentiment remained stable at 18 percent, while those adopting a neutral stance increased from 30 percent to 36 percent during the same period.
In a statement, Publicus Asia highlighted economic concerns such as price inflation, joblessness, low wages, and a perceived lack of productivity as driving factors behind this shift in the political landscape.
The polling firm noted that these issues if left unaddressed by the administration, have led to a significant migration of pro-administration voters towards neutrality.
The National Capital Region (NCR) witnessed a substantial drop in pro-administration sentiment from 49 percent to 33 percent. In comparison, Mindanao and North-Central Luzon (NCL) showed declines of 51 percent and 49 percent, respectively.
Publicus Asia emphasized that neutral sentiments increased across regions, indicating a broader shift towards non-partisanship. The polling firm also reported a decrease in anti-opposition sentiment from 40 percent to 32 percent and a notable increase in neutral sentiments from 42 percent to 47 percent.
Publicus Asia attributed the persistence of the “Duterte effect” to the challenges faced by the Opposition Party, which grapples with discreditation from the previous administration.
On a regional level, pro-opposition support remained relatively stable, with marginal increases in the NCR, NCL, and Mindanao. Anti-opposition sentiment decreased across all regions, showcasing a notable shift towards neutrality.
Publicus Asia underscored that the proportion of Filipino voters adopting a neutral stance towards the opposition has notably increased in NCR, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The Pahayag 2023 End of the Year Survey was non-commissioned it said in a statement.
The poll utilized purposive sampling, involving 1,500 respondents randomly drawn from the market research panel of over 200,000 Filipinos maintained by the Singapore office of PureSpectrum.
The sample was restricted to registered Filipino voters maintained by PureSpectrum, a US-based panel marketplace with a multinational presence.
(IA/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Claiming that there are still around 40,000 traditional jeepney units that have yet to join the consolidation program, transport group Manibela appealed for compassion from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., saying drivers and operators will lose their livelihood once the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) suspends their operation come January 1, 2024.
This developed as the government remained firm on Tuesday (December 26) in its stand not to extend the deadline for the consolidation of operators to comply with the jeepney modernization program.
Transportation Undersecretary Timothy John Batan clarified that there will be no more extension beyond the December 31 due date, despite appeals from drivers and operators to give them more time to comply with the policy to join a cooperative.
Under a cooperative, an operator will lose ownership of his unit as this will now form part of the asset of the group that formed the juridical entity.
Meanwhile, transport group Piston expressed hope that a temporary restraining order [TRO] would be issued by the Supreme Court (SC) after it brought the issue to the highest court.
(IAmigo/MNM)
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. officiated the swearing-in ceremony for the newly appointed directors of the Maharlika Investment Corporation on Wednesday (20 Dec 2023).
The four directors, Vicky Castillo Tan, Andrew Jerome Gan, German Lichauco, and Roman Felipe Reyes, took their oath of office in a ceremony held at Malacañang, as reported by the Presidential Communications Office.
These appointments follow the recent naming of Rafael Consing Jr. as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Maharlika Investment Corp. last November.
Vicky Castillo Tan, a seasoned professional with a background at the Asian Development Bank and various financial institutions, hails from Manila. She holds degrees in Business Administration and completed her Master of Business Administration at the University of the Philippines-Diliman.
Andrew Jerome Gan, with degrees in finance and business economics from the University of Notre Dame, brings his expertise to the Maharlika Investment Corp. Gan has held key positions in various organizations, including roles in finance, management, and advisory boards.
German Lichauco, a graduate of De La Salle University and Ateneo De Manila University, has an extensive legal and corporate background. His experiences include serving as a director for different corporations and holding leadership roles in law offices.
Roman Felipe Reyes, a graduate of San Beda College and the University of Detroit, Michigan, adds a wealth of experience to the board. Reyes has served in various capacities, including directorships and leadership roles in notable organizations.
The Maharlika Investment Corp., established under Republic Act (RA) 11954, plays a crucial role in mobilizing and utilizing the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) for strategic investments aimed at optimizing returns on investment (ROIs). The new leadership is expected to steer the corporation towards new heights in the realm of investment and financial strategies.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. assured Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) that his administration remains committed to implementing programs aimed at enhancing their quality of life.
One notable initiative is the establishment of the “One Repatriation Command Center,” featuring a 24/7 hotline (1348) available for those requiring rescue and repatriation, as well as counseling and legal assistance.
Additional programs encompass the Livelihood Development Assistance Program, Balik Pinas, Balik Hanap-buhay, the Financial Awareness Seminar-Small Business Management Training, the Enterprise Development Loan Program, and the Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-unlad ng Samahang OFWs.
“Numerous projects are in the pipeline, and we are continually improving existing programs. I trust that you will make the most of and utilize these benefits wisely,” remarked Marcos during the OFW Family Day in Pasay City.
“Alongside your hard work overseas for the betterment of your families, we are exerting efforts to further develop our country, so that upon your return, you will witness significant positive changes,” added the President.
Marcos commended OFWs for their diligence, emphasizing that they are individuals the Philippines takes pride in.
“To our OFWs who demonstrate diligence, excellence, and resilience in your professions daily, becoming true examples of the modern Filipino worker: You are the genuine embodiment of pride for our nation,” declared the Chief Executive.
(IAmigo/MNM)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the imperative of unity among member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in response to persistent violations of international laws.
Speaking at the 50th ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit in Tokyo on Sunday, Marcos called for collective action amid escalating intercontinental ballistic missile tests by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North), unilateral actions in the East and South China Seas, and the escalating violence in Myanmar.
Marcos emphasized that these actions pose a continued threat to peace and stability in the ASEAN region.
“Trust is the foundation of peace, based on deeds and not just words, particularly in a geopolitical environment marked by disruptions and violations of international law. As we confront common yet intricate challenges, our unity becomes paramount,” he stated.
The President highlighted the necessity of addressing the worsening situation in Myanmar, emphasizing proactive engagement through the Five Point Consensus, the United Nations Mechanism, and the AHA Center (ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management). Acknowledging Japan’s role as a reliable partner, especially in maritime security and cooperation, Marcos expressed anticipation for co-chairing the ADMM Plus Experts’ Working Group on Maritime Security from 2024 to 2027.
In addition to maritime security, Marcos urged continued partnership among ASEAN member countries to address environmental challenges and promote climate action. He sought Japan’s support in achieving carbon neutrality, emphasizing its positive impact on disaster-prone communities. Marcos welcomed Japan’s initiative to host the Asia Zero Emission Community Summit and pledged the Philippines’ support for the outcomes of the recent COP28 conference in Dubai, including the creation of a Loss and Damage Fund.
Moreover, Marcos expressed gratitude for Japan’s support through initiatives like the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve and projects promoting sustainable agriculture. He looks forward to future cooperation in enhancing resilient and sustainable agriculture and food systems through innovation and new technologies, in line with the ASEAN Regional Guidelines for Sustainable Agriculture.
Meanwhile, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez praised the President’s emphasis on resilience and sustainable agriculture during the summit’s first session. Recognizing Japan’s ongoing support, Romualdez highlighted the benefits to Filipinos, including safeguards against food shortages and price fluctuations, and stressed that investing in sustainable agricultural practices contributes to job creation and economic growth in rural communities.
(ai/mnm)