By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has raised concerns about reports of Filipinos in Cambodia being used as “baby-makers” or surrogate mothers.
In response, the Senate will investigate the reported cases of Filipinos rescued in Cambodia due to this situation.
Senate Resolution 1211, led by Senator Risa Hontiveros and the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, will look into this possible human trafficking case involving Filipinos abroad.
Of those involved, 13 are currently pregnant, while seven are scheduled for repatriation back to the Philippines.
Filipinas are recruited online, and most are aware of what they are getting into.
Earlier, Cambodian police rescued 20 Filipinas in Kandal province who were being used for surrogacy or carrying pregnancies for someone else’s child.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has also warned about this new human trafficking scheme targeting Filipinos.
ia/mnm
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has approved the Department of Migrant Workers’ (DMW) proposed P8.5 billion budget for fiscal year 2025.
During the Senate Committee on Finance’s budget hearing, it was confirmed that P8.5 billion has been allocated to the DMW under the 2025 National Expenditure Program.
“This budget will sustain our efforts to strengthen the protection of migrant workers’ rights, promote their welfare, and enhance their capacity for economic self-reliance, improving the quality of life for their families,” said DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac.
Additionally, the DMW announced plans to establish more migrant workers’ offices in the following locations:
– Abuja, Nigeria
– Bern, Switzerland
– Pretoria, South Africa
– Ankara, Turkey
– Oslo, Norway
– Warsaw, Poland
Committee Chair Joel Villanueva approved the proposal for submission to plenary debates.
“It’s important that we discuss the DMW’s budget and see how we can further improve services for our fellow citizens,” Villanueva stated.
ia/mnm
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate approved the new charter of the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) on third and final reading on Monday, September 23, 2024.
Senate Bill No. 2804, also known as the New DBP Act, aims to enhance the bank’s capacity to support key sectors and contribute significantly to the country’s economic development.
Senator Mark A. Villar, the bill’s author and sponsor, emphasized the need to amend the DBP’s charter.
“One of our advocacies in the Senate is to future-proof our economy and stimulate economic activity, in line with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. Expanding financial inclusion and providing Filipinos with the resources they need for development projects is essential. This is the DBP’s mandate—to offer development financing for Filipinos,” Villar explained.
He added, “We are pushing for amendments to the DBP Charter to equip the institution with greater capacity to meet the growing demands for financial resources across critical sectors. In addition to increasing access to funding, these amendments will also generate more jobs for Filipinos.”
Key features of the New DBP Charter include: 1) increasing the authorized capital stock, 2) issuing shares to the public, 3) designating the Secretary of Finance as the ex-officio chairperson, and 4) allowing the DBP to engage in financial leasing for government projects.
ia/mnm
By Liza Soriano
MANILA – The Senate Committee on Finance swiftly approved the Office of the President’s (OP) proposed budget of ₱10.506 billion for 2025 in under 10 minutes on Monday, September 23, 2024.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin noted that the proposed budget is 1.88% lower than last year’s allocation.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada promptly motioned to approve the budget and terminate the hearing, with support from Sen. Nancy Binay.
“Halfway through his term, the President must be given the necessary budget to achieve our goals, especially those outlined in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028,” Estrada said.
“These efforts must continue with vigor and careful coordination across various government agencies,” he added.
The budget was approved by Senate Finance Committee chairperson Sen. Grace Poe and has been submitted for plenary approval.
ia/mnm
By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Aggrieved that the Senate has yielded to only 20% of the transport sector, an estimated 10,000 drivers and operators of transport cooperatives will launch a “unity walk” on Monday, August 5, 2024.
They will march from Mabuhay Welcome Rotunda in Quezon City to Malacañan Palace to express their opposition to the Senate resolution recommending the suspension of the Public Utility Vehicles Modernization Program (PUVMP).
“Nalulungkot ako kung bakit ginawa ito ng Senado. Parang ang nabigyan ng pagkakataon [sa pagdinig] ay ‘yung 20 percent [na hindi nag-consolidate]. Kaming 80 percent [na nag-consolidate], hindi nabigyan ng pagkakataong magsalita,” lamented Melencio Vargas, president of the Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (ALTODAP), in a radio interview on Sunday, August 4, 2024.
He expressed his frustration that 22 of 23 senators signed a resolution calling for the temporary suspension of the PUVMP.
“Nakakasama ng loob, sumunod na kami. Kung gusto nilang ipatigil ito, dapat 2016-2017 pa lang tinutulan na nila ito,” Vargas added in an interview on Super Radyo DZBB.
Ed Comia, convenor of the Kooperatiba at Korporasyon ng Alyansang Pilipino para sa Modernisasyon (AKKAP MO), revealed that simultaneous strikes will also be held in other parts of the country such as Cagayan de Oro and Cebu.
However, the “Magnificent 7” in the transport sector has expressed sympathy with the pro-PUVMP cooperatives but will not join the “unity walk.”
“Kami sa Magnificent 7 kabahagi ang FEJODAP, hindi sumang-ayon sa unity walk subalit nakikisimpatiya rin naman kami sa mga hinaing ng mga kasama natin sa kooperatiba. Kawawa po ang sambayanan mananakay, di po sila kasali dito,” said Jeph Gochengco, national president of the Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (FEJODAP).
The “Magnificent 7” is composed of FEJODAP, Pasang Masda, Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines, Alliance of Concerned Transport Organizations, Stop and Go Transport Coalition, Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators sa Pilipinas, and National Federation of UV Express Inc.
(ia/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine Senate on Monday (22 July 2024) opened its third regular session in the 19th Congress led by Senate President Chiz Escudero with all of the 23 senators in attendance.
Escudero with his wife Heart Evangelista were the first to walk in the red carpet during the opening of the third regular session.
Evangelista now serves as the new president of Senate Spouses Foundation Inc. (SPFI).
Some Cabinet members, the diplomatic corps and former senators attended the ceremonial opening that lasted for 30 minutes.
Spouses and other family members of the senators were also present to witness the session’s commencement.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Short of saying that his daughter is a liar, former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has rebuffed Vice President Sara Duterte for announcing that he and his two sons — Davao City Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte and Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte — will be running for senator in 2025.
“Maniwala kayo kay Inday? I-jamming ka niyan nang husto… Saan ka nakakita, tatay dalawang anak magtakbo [sa Senado]… Wag kayong kumagat kay Inday kasi ‘yan si Inday kagaya ko rin ‘yan,” the Duterte patriarch quipped.
Political pundits told Maharlika NuMedia that it was only a bluff when VP Sara claimed that it’s Baste who’s gunning for the presidency in 2028.
“Si Inday pa rin ang tatakbo pagka-presidente sa 2028,” they chorused.
On Sunday (30 June 2024), Duterte told reporters in Tacloban City not to believe his daughter’s statement about his supposed political plans.
He admitted that it would be “bizarre” if he were to be in the Senate alongside Pulong and Baste.
“Anong gagawin namin sa Senate…Anong gagawin namin doon?” Duterte said.
(el Amigo/mnm)
MANILA – Leaders of the House of Representatives urged the Senate on Thursday (30 May 2024) to act on the proposed amendments to the 1987 Constitution’s restrictive economic provisions, following a new nationwide survey showing majority support for these changes.
Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga Representative Aurelio Gonzales Jr. emphasized the need for the Senate to heed public opinion. He cited a recent poll by big data research firm Tangere, conducted from May 21 to 25, which revealed that 57 percent of Filipinos favor amending the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
“New Senate President Francis Escudero should address what his predecessor could not, and it should be done promptly,” Gonzales stated.
The House of Representatives had already passed Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 7 its version of the economic Charter change in March this year. However, the Senate’s counterpart, RBH No. 6, remains pending.
Gonzales pointed out that RBH No. 6 is currently “in limbo” due to recent changes in the Senate leadership. The resignation of Senator Juan Edgardo Angara, former chairman of the Senate special committee on constitutional amendments, has disrupted public consultations. Angara, along with Senators Juan Miguel Zubiri and Loren Legarda, who also resigned from her Senate post, were the authors of RBH No. 6.
“We are uncertain about the future of RBH No. 6, considering its authors have stepped down,” Gonzales added.
Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe expressed optimism that the Senate could pass RBH No. 6 after the third and final regular session of the 19th Congress convenes in July. However, he cautioned that the opportunity for approval is narrowing, as the election campaign season for the May 2025 elections will begin once candidates file their certificates of candidacy in October.
“Post-October, legislative accomplishments will be minimal. That’s the reality we face,” Dalipe noted.
Deputy Speaker David Suarez urged the new Senate leadership to prioritize RBH 6 amid the recent turmoil in the upper chamber. “Senate President Escudero needs to focus on this critical issue,” he said.
The Tangere survey highlighted the perceived benefits of the amendment proposals: job creation (72 percent), higher economic growth (68 percent), increased salaries and benefits (67 percent), and lower prices of goods and services (63 percent). The survey included 1,500 mobile-based respondents.
Tangere, a market research firm owned by Acquisitions Apps, Inc., began as an opinion poll survey before the Covid-19 pandemic. It utilizes mobile application technology, social media engagement, and big data analytics.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In line with the envisioned Bagong Pilipinas by the administration of President Ferdinand Bongbong R. Marcos Jr., the House of Representatives resolved on Wednesday (20 March 2024) night the immediate transmittal to the Senate of both the resolution on economic constitutional reform and the bill revoking the franchise of Swara Sug Media Corporation, which operates as Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) of controversial televangelist Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy.
Voting 288-8-2, the lower chamber passed on the third and final reading RBH No. 7, which seeks to amend specific economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution concerning public utilities, education, and advertising by inserting the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law” to give more flexibility regarding foreign ownership and participation in certain investments.
RBH 7, which mirrors RBH No. 6, is still being deliberated in the Senate.
The House has also invoked Article 17 Section 1 of the Constitution which allows it to propose amendments to the electorate by a 3/4 vote of all members.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, who co-authored RBH No. 7 with several other House leaders and members, underscored that the proposed economic constitutional amendments represent the final component of the investment measures pursued by the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.
On the other hand, the revocation of SMNI’s franchise was prompted by a series of violations, including spreading fake news, involvement in red-tagging, and committing serious corporate offenses.
“Tinutupad lamang po natin ang mandatong ini-atang sa atin ng Konstitusyon at ng taumbayan. Walang personalan dito. Trabaho lang,” Romualdez quipped.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate approved on third and final reading on Monday (March 18, 2024) the bill creating the Bulacan Special Economic Zone and Freeport.
The bill garnered 22 affirmative votes, with no negative votes or abstentions. Senator Grace Poe, Chairperson of the Committee on Economic Affairs and sponsor of Senate Bill No. 2572, praised the Senate’s approval of the measure.
Poe emphasized that SBN 2572 was carefully crafted to balance economic growth and environmental protection, while also ensuring greater representation for local government units covered by the proposed ecozone.
“It will stimulate investments, generate more employment opportunities, and serve as a model not only in the Philippines but also throughout Asia… With this measure, the people of Bulacan and the entire country can anticipate a world-class economic zone that we can all take pride in,” Poe stated.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has commenced its investigation into the controversial resort constructed within the protected area of Chocolate Hills, Senator Raffy Tulfo revealed on Monday (18 March 2024).
“We are already looking into that,” Tulfo informed reporters.
Previously, Senators Nancy Binay and Cynthia Villar had expressed interest in conducting an ocular inspection in Bohol.
Tulfo also revealed the presence of infrastructures in Mt. Apo in Davao.
“We have discovered another one. Not only in Bohol but also in Mt. Apo in Davao. The situation is similar, with various structures mushrooming within the buffer zone, resembling mushrooms, different business establishments that should not be there because it’s a protected area,” he added.
The senator further stated that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) admitted to granting a two-year grace period for illegally constructed establishments to vacate the area.
“They allegedly gave a two-year grace period to some of those illegally erected structures to dismantle,” Tulfo said.
“In the first place, why were they allowed? They shouldn’t have been built. Now that they’re there, conducting business, harming the environment, you’re giving them two years; closure should be immediate,” the senator emphasized.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has announced that both chambers of Congress have aligned in their efforts to amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
In a media interview in Prague on Friday (15 March 2024), President Marcos stated, “The Senate is continuing with the hearings, and the House [of Representatives] has already passed the proposal on second reading. What is crucial to note is that the resolutions put forward by both chambers are practically identical. This convergence signifies a significant milestone in our legislative process. We have reached a consensus.”
Reflecting on the journey of these discussions, President Marcos remarked, “We were well aware of the initial contentious nature of this endeavor. However, we are now traversing a common path between the two chambers. This unity is paramount.”
House Speaker Martin Romualdez emphasized the substantial deliberation the lower chamber has dedicated to the Resolution of Both Houses No. 7 (RBH 7), indicating a focused commitment to advancing the discussions.
RBH 7, which seeks to enhance foreign ownership in critical industries, was approved by the House of Representatives on Wednesday (13 March 2024).
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri affirmed that the Senate’s progress is on schedule, with approximately three more hearings remaining before advancing to further deliberation.
President Marcos previously underscored that existing economic provisions are impeding potential investors from engaging in operations within the country.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has applauded the Philippine team for their outstanding performance in the 19th Asian Games held from September 23 to October 8, 2023, in Hangzhou, China.
It has ratified Senate Resolution No. 825, along with 30 other resolutions, extending congratulations and commendations to the Philippine team and their coaching staff for their exceptional achievements in the latest edition of the quadrennial event.
“The Philippine delegation finished 17th overall and secured four gold medals, two silver medals, and 12 bronze medals – a remarkable and impressive accomplishment worthy of recognition,” stated Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, sponsor of the resolution.
The Asian Games is a continental multi-sport event held once every four years among Asian athletes.
Meanwhile, Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Committee on Sports and principal author of the resolution, highlighted the national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, which clinched the country’s first men’s basketball gold medal since 1962.
He noted the team’s victories over China in the semifinals and Jordan in the finals.
“The dedication and sacrifices of our athletes, coaches, and support staff have led to a remarkable triumph for our nation. Beyond the tally of medals and rankings, what truly fills my heart with pride is the indomitable Filipino spirit and the unity fostered by these games among our people. The Asian Games served as a platform for our nation to unite, rally behind our athletes, and celebrate our shared passion for sports,” expressed Go.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — As the Senate seemingly foot-dragged in approving the economic reforms in the 37-year-old Constitution, the House of Representatives under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez passed the economic charter change (Cha-Cha) after only six days of marathon deliberations.
On Wednesday, the House Committee of the Whole approved via voice vote Resolutions of Both Houses No. 7 (RBH 7), which seeks to amend the 1987 Constitution by allowing increased foreign ownership of vital industries.
It was learned that the Charter amendments under RBH 7 provide for the easing of the 40%-foreign ownership limit on education, public utilities, and advertising sectors by adding the phrase “unless provided for by law.”
Former finance secretary Margarito Teves lauded the swift action of the House of Representatives.
“Foreign equity limitations in the Constitution are binding constraints to investors. As of 2022, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand have already surpassed us in terms of foreign direct investments,” Teves said.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) also agreed with Teves that the RBH 7 will pump in much-needed foreign capital to address low wages and increase the productivity of the country’s labor force.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has declared Kingdom of Jesus Christ Pastor, Apollo Quiboloy, in contempt for failing to attend the investigation conducted by the Upper House.
The Senate resumed its inquiry into the alleged child abuse and human trafficking involving Quiboloy on Tuesday, March 5, 2024.
“By Section 18 of the Rules of the Senate, as the chair of the Committee, and with the concurrence of one member present (Senator Aquilino ‘Koko’ Pimentel III), I at this moment declare Apollo Carreon Quiboloy in contempt for his refusal to be sworn in or to testify before this investigation. This committee urges the Senate President to issue an order for his arrest so that he may be compelled to testify,” Senator Risa Hontiveros stated.
Quiboloy’s camp argued that compelling him to attend the legislative inquiry violates his rights.
However, Senator Robin Padilla opposed this decision. “With all due respect, I regretfully disagree with the decision to hold Pastor Quiboloy in contempt,” Padilla remarked.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate honored the global contributions of South Korean diplomat Ban Ki-moon, the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations General Assembly.
The upper chamber unanimously adopted a resolution on Tuesday (27 Feb 2024) introduced by Senate President Pro-tempore Loren Legarda, expressing the “profound sense of the Senate” in honoring Ban and commending his “outstanding global contributions.”
“The Philippine Senate, with deep respect and administration, acknowledges the exceptional contributions of Mr. Ban Ki-moon in shaping the global landscape,” the resolution read.
Ban and his wife arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on Monday, February 26, 2024.
He was welcomed by the Malacañang Protocol and the South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The proposal to increase the daily minimum wage by P100 for private sector workers has successfully passed the third and final reading in the Senate.
Senate Bill No. 2534 garnered 20 affirmative votes this Monday (19 Feb 2024).
The proposal received no negative votes or abstentions, with Senators Imee Marcos, Lito Lapid, Cynthia Villar, and Mark Villar present in the session hall during the voting.
Zubiri earlier emphasized the necessity of raising the minimum wage for employees in the private sector.
“How can one survive on P360 a day? It’s impossible. Once this bill is passed and becomes law, it will offer significant relief to our impoverished yet hardworking employees,” Zubiri remarked.
According to the proposal, all private sector employees must receive the specified wage increase of P100.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — A bill aimed at boosting the daily minimum wage of private sector workers by P100 has successfully passed its second reading in the Senate.
Senate Bill 2534, titled “An Act Providing for a 100 Pesos Daily Minimum Wage Increase for Employees and Workers in the Private Sector,” was presented on the Senate floor by Senator Jinggoy Estrada last week.
Currently, the daily minimum wage in the National Capital Region stands at P610.
SB 2534 consolidates various proposals advocating for a minimum wage hike, including a version put forth by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, which initially proposed a P150 increase across the board for private sector workers.
However, the current version of the bill has been revised from P150 to P100, aligning with adjustments made by regional wage boards, which have raised minimum daily wage rates from P30 to P89.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The bill seeking to protect the rights and ensure the welfare of movie and television industry workers has already been scheduled for the third reading in the Senate.
“Even after his passing, Eddie Garcia, widely regarded as the greatest Filipino actor of all time, continues to make history. His legacy, carried under his name, will undoubtedly benefit his colleagues,” Senator Jinggoy Estrada, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Labor said.
Estrada was the sponsor of Senate Bill No. 2505 or the proposed Eddie Garcia Law.
Once passed into law, the lawmaker said Congress will be enacting landmark legislation as the measure will institute needed reforms involving over 400 establishments and thousands of workers.
“Unique at sinasabing ‘peculiar’ ang movie and TV industry dahil sa tinagal-tagal na panahon ay naging normal na sa kanila ang mag-trabaho ng mahabang oras. Minsan ay umaabot pa ng 36 oras o non-stop. Sa panukalang batas, may itatakdang maximum na oras ang kanilang trabaho para na rin mapangalagaan ang kanilang kapakanan,” Estrada said.
Estrada expressed optimism that the bill will hurdle the third reading and have the upper chamber’s version consolidated with the House of Representatives bill that was passed last year and ratified in a week with the support of his colleagues.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate commenced deliberations Monday (05 Feb 2024), on the Charter Change, specifically addressing Resolution of Both House (RBH) No. 6.
The proposed amendments target Articles XII, XIV, and XVI of the 1987 Constitution. Senator Sonny Angara emphasized that discussions will steer clear of political provisions, focusing instead on the resolution’s substantive content to ensure a concentrated and limited discourse.
Senate President Zubiri, who introduced RBH 6, aims to narrow the focus of Charter revisions. The proposed changes primarily revolve around easing restrictions on foreign ownership within public utilities, advertising, and educational institutions.
Zubiri revealed that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. personally entrusted him with spearheading the examination of the Constitution’s economic provisions.
(el Amigo/MNM)