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)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Philippine Senate’s working hours were shortened this Tuesday (09 Jan 2024) in observance of the Traslacion 2024.
In a letter addressed to the media, Senate Secretary Renato Bantug conveyed that, as per Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri’s directive, the working hours for the day would conclude at 2 pm.
According to the letter, “Committee hearings, technical working groups, and other meetings may proceed or continue. The assigned staff for these hearings or meetings shall continue to assist unless directed otherwise by the chairperson.”
It further specified, “The Office of the Sergeant-At-Arms and personnel from the Maintenance and General Services Bureau, who follow a shifting schedule, are not included in the shortened working hours.”
Every January 9, the Feast of the Black Nazarene is commemorated.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senators have expressed their dismay over the recent power outage in Panay Island, adversely affecting its residents.
“I am incensed and dismayed by the persistent power outages plaguing some provinces in Western Visayas, particularly in Iloilo,” stated Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri.
“Constant power interruptions have widespread effects on our communities, extending beyond mere inconvenience. They affect not only businesses, livelihoods, and the delivery of basic services to the people, but they have dire and far-reaching consequences on the lives of citizens,” he added.
Senator Grace Poe also voiced her discontent, deeming the incident “unacceptable.”
“Kawawa ang mga nasa bahay, mga estudyante, negosyo at maging ang operasyon ng lokal na pamahalaan,” Poe said.
“Concerned agencies and private companies must find ways to restore power in Panay Island at the most expedient time.”
In separate statements, Senate Energy Committee Chairman Raffy Tulfo, Vice Chairman Sherwin Gatchalian, and Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa announced their intention to file resolutions to investigate this matter.
(El Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has announced that the Senate is in the process of identifying a new chairperson for the powerful Blue Ribbon Committee.
Zubiri expressed his respect for Senator Francis Tolentino’s decision to resign from his position as the head of the Blue Ribbon Committee.
He commended Tolentino’s efficient and productive leadership, acknowledging the committee’s effective exercise of its power to investigate matters related to the accountability of public officers.
“Sen. Tolentino’s tenure as the head of the Blue Ribbon Committee has been marked by efficiency and productivity. Under his capable leadership, the committee has successfully fulfilled its mandate to investigate issues relevant to the accountability of public officials,” said Zubiri.
Regarding the selection of the new chair for the Blue Ribbon Committee, Zubiri emphasized that this process would involve thorough consultations with Senate colleagues. Acknowledging the significant role Tolentino played, Zubiri expressed confidence in finding a suitable replacement among the talented lawyers within the Senate.
“Sen. Tolentino has left big shoes to fill, but I am sure we can find a suitable replacement in our ranks of brilliant lawyers in the chamber,” he added.
Senator Tolentino had previously announced his resignation, stating, “This decision is rooted in a deep-seated belief that public office demands fidelity to pledges made.”
(IAmigo/MNM)
Ni Liza Soriano
MANILA — Iimbestigahan ng Senado ang mga plano at programa ng Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) upang maresolba ang patuloy na pagsisikip ng daloy ng trapiko sa Metro Manila at mga karatig-lalawigan.
Sa Senate Resolution 859 na inihain ni Senate Majority leader Joel Villanueva, inaatasan ang kaukulang komite sa Senado na magsagawa ng imbestigasyon “in aid of legislation” para alamin ang mga plano at programa ng MMDA para malutas ang matinding daloy ng trapiko.
Base sa datos ng Asian Development Outlook 2019, lumalabas na ang Metro Manila ang pinaka-congested city sa may 278 siyudad mula sa 25 developing Asian countries at kailangan ding maglaan ang mga driver dito ng halos 100% oras kapag bumibiyahe tuwing peak hours.
Nakasaad pa sa resolusyon ni Villanueva na ang matinding pagsisikip ng daloy ng trapiko ay may matinding epekto sa personal, social, environmental at sa ekonomiya, gayundin sa kalusugan ng mga commuter.
Lumalabas din sa pag-aaral ng World Health Organization (WHO), na ang traffic congestion ay may masamang epekto sa kalusugan ng mga commuter at nakapagpapataas ng lebel ng fatigue at anxiety at nagdudulot din ng hirap sa pakikipagkomunikasyon at pagtulog.
Ang usok din umano na inilalabas ng mga sasakayan ay nagdudulot ng polusyon tulad ng carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Nauna nang nagbabala ang MMDA sa commuters ng 10% hanggang 20% na increase sa traffic volume o aabot sa 417,000 hanggang 430,000 sasakyan ang dadaan sa EDSA kada araw dahil sa holiday season.
Dahil dito, iginiit ni Villnaueva na dapat nang repasuhin ang mga polisiya, programa at plano ng MMDA, Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) at iba pang ahensiya ng gobyerno para maibsan ang mabigat na daloy ng trapiko sa Pilipinas.
(ai/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senators, office staff, and employees of the Senate vacated the office building in haste Tuesday afternoon after a 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck in Occidental Mindoro.
The temblor was also felt in many parts of Metro Manila and Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon).
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck off Occidental Mindoro on Tuesday.
The tectonic quake struck at 4:23 p.m. and had a depth of focus of 79 kilometers.
(ai/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate is committed to expediting the passage of the proposal aimed at modernizing the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
This urgency comes in the wake of significant earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in the country.
Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, Chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, has confirmed that the committee has completed its hearings.
The proposal is currently under review by the technical working group (TWG) and is set to be promptly presented to the Senate plenary.
Senator Cayetano offered this assurance to Phivolcs’ Teresito Bacolcol after she emphasized the need for modernization within the next five years.
During the hearings, Bacolcol highlighted the necessity for modernization funds to acquire equipment for monitoring volcanic eruptions, and potential tsunamis, and identifying earthquake-prone areas.
Bacolcol pointed out that, presently, there are 24 active volcanoes in the country, with only 10 under monitoring, and only Taal and Mayon equipped with complete monitoring instruments.
Earlier, a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck off the coast of Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur.
Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-Caraga director Liza Mazo said Monday the death toll of the 7.4 temblor claimed two lives and nine were reported to have sustained injuries but not in critical condition.
(ai/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights has on Saturday (25 Nov 2023) recommended amending Republic Act 10361, also known as the Kasambahay Law, to specify criminal liabilities against abusive employers.
This recommendation comes in the wake of an investigation into the case of household helper Elvie Vergara, who allegedly faced abuse from her employer.
The committee aims to “provide specific criminal liability for abusive employers with corresponding penalties for any death or physical injuries sustained by the Kasambahay resulting from, or sustained in the course of his or her employment.”
Currently, the committee notes that in cases where domestic assistants are killed or suffer physical harm, there are no explicit criminal penalties outlined in the statute. Instead, reference is made to the Revised Penal Code, with the sole penalties being fines ranging from P10,000 to P40,000.
The Senate panel asserts that clearly defining the criminal culpability and penalties for abusive employers will serve as a significant deterrent against any form of abuse towards domestic helpers.
(ai/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has given its approval to measures aimed at converting roads, as well as renumbering and establishing district engineering offices, in their third and final reading.
In the province of Romblon, four municipal roads are set to be upgraded to national highways.
Senator Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., Chairperson of the Committee on Public Works, emphasized that these bills are designed to assist local governments in meeting the needs of their constituents.
“In converting these roads, local government units are relieved of the responsibility of maintaining these highly useful and valuable routes, allowing them to allocate resources more effectively to the needs of the community,” Revilla stated.
“While entrusting the preservation of these roads to the national government, leveraging their expertise, we are essentially achieving two objectives at once,” he added in his omnibus sponsorship speech.
The following bills were approved in their third reading: House Bill No. (HBN) 1028, proposing the conversion of the Sawang-Macalas Road; HBN 1029, focusing on the conversion of the road stretching from Barangay Tuguis in the Municipality of Odiongan to Barangay Tugdan in the Municipality of Alcantara; HBN 1030, considering Senate Bill No. 1943, for the conversion of the road stretching from Sitio Boliganay in Barangay Panique, Municipality of Odiongan, to Sitio Kabaliwan in Barangay Bachawan, Municipality of San Agustin; and HBN 1031, taking into account Senate Bill No. 1952, which aims to convert the Sablayan-Agpanabat-Bagacay Road, a section of the Romblon Circumferential Road.
Additionally, three bills for renumbering and establishing district engineering offices in Cebu, Leyte, and Zamboanga City were also approved.
(ai/mnm)