By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla has filed a resolution to conduct Senate hearings to improve the government’s information drive on its preparations and responses to the crisis caused by El Nino.
“Conducting an information and awareness campaign is necessary to ensure that the public is well-equipped with the necessary knowledge to undertake precautionary measures on the impact of this weather condition,” he said in Senate Resolution No. 987.
“Filipinos must be informed of up-to-date and necessary preparations and responses of the national and local government, as the country has been taking the brunt of dangerous levels of heat index, mainly attributed to the El Nino phenomenon,” Padilla added.
The senator stressed that El Nino has not only had detrimental effects on agriculture but also threatened other key sectors like the environment, energy, education, health, and public safety.
“It cannot be denied that implementing a comprehensive public information drive is necessary to apprise the affected population of the government’s projects, programs, and activities to help them cope with the adverse effects of this crisis,” Padilla said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
Senator Robin Padilla has emphasized the necessity of equipping citizens with military training to effectively respond to calamities.
The senator reiterated this stance following the 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck Taiwan.
“It’s crucial for us to be trained and knowledgeable about what to do in emergencies. This isn’t just about warfare… What we’re doing is for the peace and safety of our fellow citizens,” Padilla stated.
Hans Leo Cacdac, officer-in-charge of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), reported that three Filipinos in Taiwan sustained minor injuries due to the earthquake.
“All of them are okay. Their injuries are minor. Two of them have been discharged from the hospital,” Cacdac confirmed.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. assured that the Philippine government would provide support to affected Filipinos in Taiwan.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla stated on Wednesday (20 March 2024) that his office has been strictly following the rules and procedures of the Senate to ensure the protection of the rights of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
This statement comes in the wake of an arrest order being signed against Quiboloy by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri.
“My office has diligently complied with all the rules and procedures of the Senate to safeguard the rights of Pastor Quiboloy. The committee chairman has made a decision, and Zubiri has taken action by issuing the warrant of arrest,” Padilla said.
“In my view, the legal recourse for Pastor Quiboloy is to bring this matter to the Supreme Court,” he added.
Zubiri signed the arrest order against Quiboloy on Tuesday (19 March 2024) after the pastor repeatedly failed to appear during the Senate’s inquiry into alleged cases of child abuse and human trafficking.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla has filed a resolution to conduct an investigation into the indefinite suspension of Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) since December 2023.
In Senate Resolution 960, Padilla sought to have the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, which he chairs, to handle the investigation “in aid of legislation.”
“The imposition of baseless suspension orders on SMNI not only constitutes a denial of due process but also an erosion of press freedom,” he said in his resolution.
Padilla maintained the National Telecommunications Commission, in its show-cause and suspension orders on SMNI, failed to indicate the need to suspend the operations of SMNI.
He added that the right of the people to public information should not be unduly curtailed as access to information on matters of public concern will help people by giving them a better perspective of vital issues confronting the society.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla announced that a total of five senators have signed a manifestation objecting to the Senate’s arrest of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
The senators who signed are Senators Cynthia Villar, Imee Marcos, Bong Go, JV Ejercito, and Padilla himself.
Padilla also disclosed that he had conversations with Sens. Grace Poe and Raffy Tulfo, who provided explanations for their decision not to support his attempt to halt Quiboloy’s detention.
Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda, Senators Nancy Binay, Pia Cayetano, and Mark Villar are among the other committee members who have not yet taken a position on the matter.
Earlier, Sen. Risa Hontiveros cited Quiboloy in contempt for failing to attend any of the Senate hearings on the alleged child abuse and human trafficking involving the pastor.
Villar expressed her familiarity with Quiboloy, describing him as a good person.
“Kaibigan ko si Pastor Quiboloy. Mabait siya sa aming pamilya…Matagal ko na siyang kilala. Parang ‘di naman siya ‘yung gagawa ng ganon. Kami ni Imee pareho naming siyang kilala. Pati ‘yung mga Mindanaoan. Maayos naman siya… nakakahiya naman na ako pahuhuli ko siya. Diyos ko. You don’t do that to a friend,” Villar said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla has filed a resolution honoring veteran actress Jaclyn Jose, who passed away on March 2, describing her as an “icon of professionalism, grace and talent in the entertainment industry.”
Padilla filed Senate Resolution 943 where he sought to have the Senate express “profound sympathy and sincere condolences.”
“Since she started her career in the 1980s, Ms. Jose has received various recognition for her work locally, including five Gawad Urians, two Luna Awards, the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) Award, and a Movie Icon Award from the Eddys,” he said.
He added Jose became the first Filipino and Southeast Asian in 2016 to win the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress in her exemplary performance in “Ma’Rosa.”
She was also honored by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts at the Ani ng Dangal Ceremony in 2017 for this achievement.
Andi Eigenmann, Jose’s daughter, revealed that the latter died due to a heart attack.
“It is with great sadness that I announce the untimely passing of my nanay, better known as Jaclyn Jose at the age of 60 on the morning of March 2, 2024, due to a myocardial infarction or heart attack,” Eigenmann said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla expressed his regret following the recent incident involving his wife, Mariel Padilla, receiving an IV drip in his Senate office, pledging that such an occurrence will be prevented from happening in the future.
“I never intended to disregard the existing security protocols of the Senate, especially by showing disrespect to our institution,” Padilla stated in letters addressed to Dr. Renato DG Sison, Director of the Senate’s Medical and Dental Bureau, and (Ret) Lt. Gen. Roberto T. Ancan, the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms.
“I want to emphasize that my wife had no intention of disregarding the prevailing regulations of the Medical Bureau,” he added.
“You can rest assured that such incidents will not be repeated.”
On Sunday (25 Feb 2024), the entertainment personality publicly apologized both to the Senate and to the general public regarding the IV drip issue.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Following the brouhaha brought about by the issue of Senator Robinhood Padilla’s wife Mariel Rodriguez allegedly taking a glutathione drip inside the lawmaker’s office which she denied later, the Department of Health (DOH) has warned the public anew against the use of glutathione for skin lightening.
In a statement, the DOH said on Saturday (24 February 2024) there were no published clinical trials that have evaluated the use of injectable glutathione for skin lightening.
“The DOH does not support the use of glutathione for skin whitening,” the DOH said.
To recall, DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa earlier warned about the hazards of using glutathione, such as damage to the kidneys, which could be fatal.
Rodriguez has denied that she took a gluta drip, saying it was only Vitamin C.
“My intent was just to inspire others that even amidst various activities or wherever they are, they can still prioritize their health by taking vitamins. It was never my intention to malign nor undermine the integrity and dignity of the Senate. I want to extend my sincerest apologies to all concerned, including the members and staff of the Senate and the public,” she said on Sunday.
But for health reform advocate Dr. Tony Leachon, regardless if Rodriguez took a glutathione drip or a Vitamin C drip, it was still irresponsible for her to advertise such a procedure without disclosing the proper dosage for it.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla has introduced a bill aimed at bolstering the Philippine government’s support for refugees and stateless individuals, particularly those affected by armed conflict, violence, persecution, and insecurity.
The proposed legislation aims to establish a Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Board as the primary authority responsible for determining status and eligibility for protection as refugees and stateless persons.
“This bill seeks to institutionalize the policy for determining eligibility for refugee or stateless status by creating a Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Board, which will operate as an attached agency of the Department of Justice,” Senator Padilla stated, referencing Senate Bill No. 2548.
He further emphasized, “This initiative aligns with our commitment to international treaties such as the 1951 UN Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and the 1954 UN Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons, among others.”
Additionally, the bill prohibits the State from deporting or expelling a refugee, except on grounds of national security or public order, to a country where they would face persecution.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla has expressed his appreciation for the new resolution filed in the Senate, which aims to review certain economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
“Napakagandang balita po ito para sa Bayan. Magkakaroon na po ng bagong sigla ang ating ekonomiya tungo sa pag-unlad ng buhay ng mga Pilipino,” Padilla said.
As the chair of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes, Padilla emphasized that he has long advocated for reforms to the Constitution’s economic provisions to attract foreign investments to the country.
Padilla further highlighted that the Senate’s renewed effort to revisit the Charter affirms the direction set by his committee when it filed a committee report proposing amendments to the 1987 Constitution.
Earlier, Padilla filed a Resolution of Both Houses No. 5, seeking to amend Sections 4 and 7 of Article VI (Legislative Department); Section 4 of Article VII (Executive Department); and Section 8 of Article X (Local Government) of the Constitution.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla asserts that the opportune moment has arrived to amend the 1987 Constitution, advocating for the inclusion of a people’s initiative, provided it genuinely emanates from the public.
This statement comes alongside his repeated caution against politicians manipulating the will of the people to align with their ambitions.
“Peoples initiative: Vox populi, vox Dei. The voice of the people is the voice of God… Let’s discuss the people’s initiative sensibly. Do not let politicians and ambitions cloud the singular power of the people,” Padilla emphasized.
“True change towards the nation’s progress can only be brought about by the citizens. Let us lend our support to the people’s initiative,” the lawmaker added.
Padilla highlighted that even before the people’s initiative gained momentum, certain politicians had already expressed concerns about the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) and Tulong Panghanapbuhay para sa Ating Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD).
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla expresses his desire for more substantive conversations on Charter change, the legalization of medical cannabis, and divorce, as well as a diplomatic approach to addressing tensions in the West Philippine Sea in 2024.
As the chair of the Senate committee on constitutional amendments and revision of codes, Padilla highlights President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s acknowledgment of the necessity to reexamine economic provisions in the Charter.
“Ang direksyon ng ating pangulo ay ang maalis ang economic restrictions sa ating Constitution. Sana sa pagbabalik natin sa plenaryo sa 2024, maharap na natin ang usaping ito,” Padilla stated.
Padilla also emphasizes his hope that Filipinos exercise discernment in the lead-up to the 2025 elections, urging them to choose candidates who are supportive of constitutional amendments.
“Ang pagbabago magumpisa sa inyo. Magumpisa kayong maghalal ng hindi sikat o hindi kilala pero naniniwala sa Charter change,” the senator remarked.
Simultaneously, Padilla calls for a diplomatic approach to the Philippines’ West Philippine Sea dispute with China, recognizing China as a significant trading partner.
“We have to feed our people, but if China will really invade us, dying for the country is the most beautiful thing in this entire life,” Padilla commented.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla has criticized the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for its decision to suspend Sonshine Media Network Inc. (SMNI) for 30 days, asserting a lack of due process.
As the chair of the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, Padilla intends to formally submit a resolution addressing this matter when the Senate reconvenes in January.
Padilla emphasizes the crucial role of SMNI in supporting the government’s anti-terrorism campaign, particularly through a program designed to counter “communist propaganda and recruitment strategies.”
In his resolution, Padilla points out that the NTC’s show-cause and suspension order failed to clearly state the necessity of suspending SMNI’s operations.
He contends that the order lacks an explanation of how such a suspension is imperative to prevent serious and irreparable damage or inconvenience to the public or private interests.
“In the absence of proof demonstrating serious and irreparable damage or inconvenience caused by SMNI’s continued operations, the general rule should apply. The NTC, following proper notice and hearing, holds the power to issue a suspension order by the Public Services Act,” Padilla states in the resolution he plans to formally file.
While acknowledging the NTC’s authority to suspend or revoke certificates for violations of regulations or provisions of Republic Act 11659, Padilla notes that a proviso in RA 11659 allows the NTC to suspend for up to 30 days “to avoid serious and irreparable damage or inconvenience to the public or private interests.”
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla is urging the Philippine Navy to consider acquiring Multi-Purpose Amphibious Aircraft (MPAA) to prevent a recurrence of tensions between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Padilla emphasized that MPAA could serve multiple purposes, including Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR), Search and Rescue (SAR) operations at sea, and surveillance.
“The MPAA can significantly expedite supply missions without the need for escorts, avoiding delays in case of any interference with our watercraft,” Padilla stated during his privilege speech.
Highlighting the versatility of amphibious aircraft, Padilla noted their capability to take off and land both on land and water.
Padilla underscored that, compared to the current resupply missions using watercraft, which may take a day and a half to reach BRP Sierra Madre, the MPAA could accomplish the same mission in five to eight hours.
“This aircraft will be a valuable asset for patrolling not only the West Philippine Sea but also the various islands of our country,” the senator added.
(ai/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla has introduced a bill aimed at providing assistance to families affected by terror attacks.
Senate Bill No. 2511, titled the Terror Victims Assistance Act of 2023, seeks to establish a program for offering support to victims and the families of those who lost their lives during terror attacks, facilitated through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
“In most cases, if not all, victims of these heinous acts, who have endured injuries and the families of those killed in terror attacks, are left to shoulder mounting expenses, including but not limited to medical, burial, transportation, and even long-term rehabilitation,” the bill states.
According to the proposed measure, the State will provide financial, material, psychosocial, and referral support and services to individuals and households affected by terrorism. The goal is to ensure the prompt and efficient delivery of such assistance.
The assistance encompasses financial aid, burial support, material assistance, medical support, psychosocial aid, and rehabilitation.
The Terror Victims Assistance Program (TVAP) is slated to be established as a government initiative under the DSWD. Eligible beneficiaries include the immediate families of those killed and those who sustained injuries.
(ai/mnm)
MANILA — In a heartfelt plea during Wednesday’s session, Senator Robin Padilla led a prayer for the swift resolution of the Israel-Hamas conflict, recognizing its impact on Filipinos of all ages and faiths.
Regardless of religious background, Padilla appealed for divine intervention to grant wisdom and strength in efforts to quell the violence.
“Lord, forgive us for our excesses, for our undesirable actions. We seek your help, grant us the wisdom and strength to do our utmost to stop this violence and achieve a ceasefire, unity, and understanding,” Padilla fervently expressed.
Highlighting the potential repercussions on his fellow countrymen, Padilla voiced concerns that if the turmoil escalates, it could adversely affect the Philippines and its citizens, especially the 80% grappling with poverty.
On his birthday last November 23, Padilla echoed the global sentiment, praying for the realization of a ceasefire or “urgent and extended” humanitarian pauses, as outlined in United Nations Security Council Resolution 2712.
(ai/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Robin Padilla has on Wednesday (22 Nov 2023) urged the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) to bolster its public information and awareness campaign to combat misinformation on issues in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
In Senate Resolution 864, Padilla requested the PCO to elucidate the documents and agreements underpinning the government’s actions in the WPS.
“The national government, through its communication arm, the PCO, should effectively communicate the relevant legal documents, international treaties, and bilateral and multilateral agreements to the public in an understandable manner,” the resolution stated.
The resolution further specified that part of the PCO’s mission is to communicate and disseminate the administration’s policies, priority programs, and projects through the media.
As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, Padilla emphasized the importance of the PCO providing clear, up-to-date, and accurate information as the country’s security landscape evolves.
The PCO will specifically elucidate the documents and agreements forming the basis of Philippine policies and actions in the West Philippine Sea, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the 2016 Arbitral Ruling, the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, and the Reciprocal Access Agreement.
(ai/mnm)
By Dang Samson Garcia
SENATOR Robinhood Padilla urged the Department of Education to ensure that Philippine history be taught properly under the new Matatag Curriculum.
”I am very interested in the Matatag Curriculum and I want to ask how history should be taught under the new curriculum because history is very important for our young people for them to know where we came from because we will be stronger as a country if we know what is our origin,” Padilla said in Filipino.
The Matatag Curriculum seeks to decongest the current K to 12 Curriculum by reducing the number of competencies, focusing more on literacy, numeracy and socio-emotional skills for Kindergarten to Grade 7 pupils.
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said that not all students could master the more than 100 competencies in 180 days.
As per DepEd standard, Pimentel said the students are measured quarterly and there should be intervention for those lagging behind as proposed in a bill filed by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian.
Pimentel said the family should not be faulted for the failure of the student to learn or master the competencies.
“How many hours does a student spend in school? Six hours at the least. Those six hours must not be wasted. Even if it’s not complemented by home study or home tutoring, we should have measured the kid’s improvement in that six hours in school,” he said.
By Liza Soriano
Senator Robin Padilla has urged his fellow Muslims in Quiapo in Manila to unite in cleaning up the district’s image.
“Laging pinamamalita ng ibang tao, ang Quiapo ay magulo; e pagpunta ko rito, wala namang magulo rito. Puro business lang dito. Kaya dapat tulungan natin si Congressman (Joel Chua) na linisin ang masamang imaheng binabato sa atin,” Padilla said during his visit in Quiapo.
Meanwhile, the senator also told them to invest in the halal industry after President Ferdinand Marcos “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. vowed to support it.
He added the halal industry worldwide is now worth trillions of dollars.
“Aba, napakalaking pera po noon. Ganoon kalaki ang industriya ng halal. Kaya mga kapatid ko tandaan natin ito sapagka’t ito priority ng gobyerno.”
He said the Department of Trade and Industry is providing funding for the halal industry, including the building of slaughterhouses. He also said the industry has the support of countries like Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates.
The Halal food market is projected to experience significant growth due to the rising demand from Muslim and non-Muslim consumers. This is because of its cleanliness-related benefits, such as liberation from debasements, alcohol, and blood.
(ai/mnm)