By Liza Soriano

MANILA — Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino emphasized that the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) could have played a crucial role in helping the agricultural sector combat the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in barangays, particularly through the development of locally produced vaccines.

Tolentino also stressed the department’s importance in crafting and implementing a comprehensive strategy to address viral diseases affecting humans, plants, and animals.

“How can science assist our hog farmers and the agricultural sector? We challenge the DOST to develop a vaccine superior to Vietnam’s,” the senator said during the Finance Subcommittee K briefing on the DOST’s 2025 budget on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.

Meanwhile, Senate President Migz Zubiri reiterated his support for establishing a virology institute in the Philippines, stating that the country needs a “go-to agency” for specialized science.

“That’s very important, as the pandemic has shown us. Now, diseases like monkeypox and various other strains are emerging in the Philippines. We need a dedicated agency for specialized science,” Zubiri said.

For 2025, the DOST is requesting a budget of PHP 28.77 billion to advance its strategic objectives.

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News/National

PNP: Minors Among Quiboloy Victims, More Coming Forward

By Junex Doronio

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) is now coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) following reports that some of the alleged victims of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo C. Quiboloy are minors.

PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo disclosed on Wednesday (September 11, 2024) that more alleged victims have come forward, reporting their experiences to the police.

“During the 16-day police operation, some individuals approached the PNP, claiming they were also victims of Pastor Quiboloy,” Fajardo said.

She added that these alleged victims reached out to the police during the operation to serve arrest warrants against Quiboloy and others inside the KOJC compound in Davao City.

The individuals reported they had been “abused” by Quiboloy.

“We are currently documenting these complaints without revealing the identities of the possible victims. The process of gathering additional complaints is ongoing,” Fajardo stated.

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