Publiko

14/01/2025

PEACE AT THE EXPENSE
OF ACCOUNTABILITY

The recent National Rally for Peace organized by Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) on January 13, 2025, was meant to send a strong message of unity and solidarity amidst the divisive political climate in the Philippines. With the INC's significant influence, there was a massive turnout of members. Yet, the rally was not a demonstration of faith , but a push for peace at the expense of accountability in governance.

The timing and theme of the rally carry weight, especially in a period marked by heightened political tensions and public discontent. Filipinos are grappling with economic challenges, governance controversies, and societal divisions. A call for peace is always symbolic. However, INC's call was also a subtle push for leaders to not prioritize the greater good over political and self-interest.

How will our leaders react to this call for peace at the expense of accountability? Will it scare them into submission to numbers? Or will it be dismissed as just another event that will not influence their right decision making?

While it remains to be seen how leaders respond, the people must continue to hold them accountable. Peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, good governance, and equal opportunity for all.

The ball is now in the hands of those in power. Let’s see if they rise to the occasion or falter under the pressure of political power play?

The Iglesia ni Cristo's National Rally for Peace is held in various sites across the Philippines, including the Quirino Grandstand in Manila and Davao City

14/01/2025

ENVIRONMENT, PUBLIC SAFETY ARE
NON-NEGOTIABLE

The recent suspension of quarry operations in Cebu has ignited discussions among business leaders, but let’s be clear: public safety and environmental protection should always come first. Big business has a tendency to frame environmental regulations and safety measures as obstacles to economic growth. However, no amount of profit can justify the risks to human lives, health, and ecological integrity.

Profits at What Cost?
Quarrying operations have undeniable economic benefits—jobs, taxes, and raw materials for infrastructure. But at what cost? Communities near these operations have endured air pollution, water contamination, and increased vulnerability to disasters such as landslides. When businesses push back against suspensions meant to address these issues, they reveal their priorities: profits over people.

Environmental Sustainability is Non-Negotiable
The Philippines is already grappling with climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. Quarrying adds another layer of strain on natural resources. It’s not just about short-term impacts; these activities leave long-term scars on the landscape and the people who depend on it for survival. Businesses must embrace sustainable practices or step aside.

Public Safety is Paramount
The suspensions in Naga and San Fernando were not arbitrary; they were in response to visible risks to human lives and properties. The tragic 2018 landslide in Naga City, which claimed dozens of lives, serves as a grim reminder of what can happen when environmental warnings are ignored. Allowing operations to continue without proper risk assessments would be reckless and inhumane.

To Business Leaders: Focus on Solutions, Not Complaints
Instead of resisting, big businesses should focus their resources on finding solutions:

Adopt Sustainable Practices: Invest in technologies that minimize environmental impact and adhere to global safety standards.

Support Environmental Audits: Collaborate with government agencies and environmental experts to ensure compliance.

Engage with Communities: Listen to the concerns of affected residents and address their needs. Genuine corporate social responsibility should be more than just a buzzword.

A Call for Responsible Development
Cebu’s progress cannot come at the expense of its people and environment. Responsible development is not an anti-business stance—it’s a pro-people stance. Businesses that adapt to this reality will thrive in the long term, earning the trust and respect of the communities they serve.

The message is clear: public safety and environmental protection are non-negotiable. Big business must stop prioritizing profits over people and start contributing to a future that benefits everyone.

The recent suspension of two major quarry operations in Cebu—Apo Land and Quarry Corporation (ALQC) and Solid Earth Development Corporation—has sparked discussions among business leaders, environmental advocates, and government agencies.

12/01/2025

A PATTERN OF NEGLECT

The suspension of quarrying activities in Naga and San Fernando, Cebu, raises pressing questions about governance, accountability, and the balance between economic development and environmental protection. The delay in taking action underscores systemic issues that need to be addressed.

Why Did It Take So Long?

The delay in suspending quarry operations despite persistent community concerns and visible environmental degradation suggests deeper flaws in governance. These may include:
Regulatory Lapses: Authorities may have failed to enforce existing environmental and safety regulations, prioritizing economic benefits over the welfare of affected communities.
Influence of Powerful Interests: The involvement of large corporations in quarrying often complicates swift action, as their economic contributions to local governments may outweigh immediate concerns about environmental and public health.
Bureaucratic Inertia: Slow coordination between agencies responsible for monitoring and regulating such industries can result in delays, leaving communities vulnerable for extended periods.

A Pattern of Neglect

The issues in Naga and San Fernando are not isolated. Similar incidents of delayed action have occurred in other parts of Cebu and the Philippines. This reflects a troubling pattern where the voices of affected communities are ignored until problems escalate to the point of public outcry or media attention.

The Human Cost

Communities have suffered from dust pollution, water contamination, and the destabilization of land due to quarrying. These environmental issues lead to long-term health risks, property damage, and reduced quality of life for residents, and even death during landslides. The delay in suspending operations means these problems have compounded over time, further eroding public trust in local governance.

Moving Forward: A Pro-People Approach

Transparent Review Processes: The environmental audit and risk assessment ordered by the Capitol are steps in the right direction. However, the findings must be made public to ensure accountability and rebuild trust.

Stronger Regulations: There is an urgent need to enforce stricter environmental and safety standards and to regularly audit compliance. Quarry operations should not resume until they are proven to adhere to these standards.

Community Involvement: Residents must have a seat at the table in discussions about quarrying. Their firsthand experiences and concerns are invaluable in shaping policies that prioritize public welfare.

Diversification of Local Economies: Overreliance on industries like quarrying for economic development is unsustainable. Local governments should explore alternative industries that are less harmful to the environment and communities.

Accountability is Non-Negotiable

The Capitol’s decision to pause quarrying operations should not be seen as the end of the issue but rather as a wake-up call. The time for complacency is over. Swift action must follow the audit, ensuring that any violations are met with appropriate penalties, and any resumption of operations adheres to strict safeguards.

For the residents of Naga and San Fernando, the suspension is a small victory. But it is also a reminder of the importance of vigilance, advocacy, and the collective voice in holding authorities and corporations accountable. Only by prioritizing people over profits can we hope to achieve a truly sustainable balance between development and environmental stewardship.

CEBU Gov. Gwendolyn F. Garcia has directed two firms involved in quarrying operations in San Fernando and Naga City to pause their activities for 30 days starti

12/01/2025

LESSONS FOR FILIPINO DEMOCRACY

The call for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, raises significant questions about accountability, governance, and the political culture in the Philippines.

The prospect of impeaching Vice President Sara Duterte is a polarizing topic. On one hand, impeachment serves as a constitutional mechanism to hold public officials accountable for acts of misconduct or betrayal of public trust. On the other, the highly charged political climate in the Philippines often turns such processes into partisan spectacles rather than exercises in justice.

If credible evidence supports allegations of misconduct, such as the misuse of confidential funds or other abuses of power, impeachment becomes not just a political option but a moral imperative. The Constitution entrusts officials with taxpayer money and public trust—violations of either should face rigorous scrutiny. Filipinos deserve leaders who exemplify transparency and accountability, especially in times of economic hardship and public discontent.

Lessons for Filipino Democracy

This controversy is a reminder of the need for stronger checks and balances, less reliance on opaque discretionary funds, and a political culture that prioritizes the common good over personal gain. Leaders should remember that they are stewards of the people's trust, not untouchable figures above reproach.
For the Filipino people, the debate over the Vice President's accountability is a chance to demand better governance. Whether through impeachment or other measures, public officials must face the consequences of their actions. The ultimate goal should not be vengeance but the establishment of a government that serves the people with honesty, competence, and respect for the law.

The issue of impeachment should not be taken lightly. If it proceeds, it must be grounded in solid evidence and conducted with the highest standards of justice, free from political bias. Anything less risks undermining the very democratic processes it seeks to uphold.

No matter how you look at it, Vice President Sara Duterte has a bleak political future as she faces and hurdles at least four impeachment complaints

23/12/2024

OPPORTUNITY FOR NEW LEADERS

When two warring politicians experience a decline in popularity or trust ratings, as seen in the case of Sara Duterte and Martin Romualdez, it suggests several important dynamics at play:

1. Public Disillusionment with Political Infighting
Political conflicts, especially among high-ranking officials, often erode public confidence in governance. Citizens generally expect leaders to focus on addressing pressing national issues, not personal or political disputes. The visible discord between Duterte and Romualdez may give the impression of a fragmented government, prioritizing power struggles over public service, leading to dissatisfaction among the electorate.

2. Perceived Neglect of Responsibilities
Trust ratings often decline when leaders are seen as distracted by internal conflicts rather than fulfilling their duties. Filipinos may view the infighting as a failure to address key issues like inflation, unemployment, healthcare, or education. Leaders embroiled in disputes risk being perceived as ineffective, regardless of their actual accomplishments.

3. Mutual Damage from Public Criticism
Political clashes often involve both parties airing criticisms against each other. In the process, damaging allegations can diminish the credibility of both sides. Supporters may also become disillusioned or confused, leading to a decline in loyalty to either camp.

4. Shift in Public Sentiment
The decline in popularity can indicate a shift in the public’s priorities or values. Filipinos may now prefer leaders who embody unity, collaboration, and results-oriented governance, moving away from polarizing figures who engage in divisive politics.

5. Opportunity for New Leaders
Declining ratings for both politicians could signal an opening for alternative leadership. As public trust in traditional power players diminishes, new or lesser-known leaders might rise by offering a fresh vision and a commitment to addressing the public's needs.

Implications for Governance
The Duterte-Romualdez trust rating dip should serve as a wake-up call to all politicians. The public is growing weary of political drama and demands more focus on issues that matter. Unity and collaboration across political lines are essential for effective governance and restoring public trust.

Moving Forward
Both leaders must reflect on their priorities and reconsider their approach to governance. They need to address the root causes of their conflict and work towards reconciliation or, at the very least, minimize its public visibility. By doing so, they can redirect their energy toward serving the nation and regaining the trust of the people.

THE trust ratings of Vice President Sara Duterte and House Speaker Martin Romualdez have seen a significant decline based on the survey conducted by Pulse Asia

21/12/2024

O, A TOOL FOR PATRONAGE POLITICS,
OR WORST, CORRUPTION

The Commission on Audit (COA)’s findings of deficiencies in Toledo City’s hiring of job order (JO) workers cast a troubling light on the potential misuse of public funds. This recurring issue in local government units (LGUs) across the country is often symptomatic of deeper governance problems, including patronage politics, inefficiency, and, at its worst, corruption.
Job order workers are intended to fill gaps in public service delivery, particularly for urgent or seasonal tasks. However, the COA’s observations—such as the lack of detailed documentation on the necessity of hiring and the potential for unverified workers (ghost employees)—raise serious concerns about transparency and accountability in the Toledo LGU.
A Tool for Patronage Politics?
Historically, JO positions have been prone to abuse, often used as tools for politicking. Politicians can exploit these roles to secure loyalty or votes by hiring supporters or family members under questionable circumstances. This practice not only wastes taxpayer money but also undermines the professionalism and efficiency of government operations.
Ghost Employees: A Persistent Issue
The COA’s findings highlight another red flag: the possibility of ghost employees—individuals who receive salaries without performing actual work. This practice drains public funds that could have been used for genuine development projects or services, further eroding public trust in government institutions.
What Should Be Done?
Toledo City’s leadership must address these deficiencies decisively. Here’s how they can do so:
Transparent Hiring Processes: Establish clear guidelines for hiring JO workers, ensuring that every position filled is backed by documented evidence of need.
Public Accountability: Regularly publish a list of JO employees, their roles, and their assigned projects to foster transparency and prevent ghost employees.
Third-Party Audits: Conduct independent audits of hiring practices to ensure compliance with regulations and eliminate irregularities.
Capacity Building: Invest in the permanent workforce to reduce reliance on JO workers, addressing the root cause of this issue.
Legislative Oversight: The city council should exercise oversight on the executive branch's hiring practices to ensure proper use of funds.
Moving Forward
Toledo City’s residents deserve better governance, free from the specter of inefficiency and corruption. The COA’s findings should serve as a wake-up call, not just for Toledo but for other LGUs as well. By addressing these issues head-on, Toledo can rebuild public trust and set a standard for ethical governance. It’s time to put an end to the misuse of job order positions and refocus on serving the people with integrity and efficiency.

The Commission on Audit has flagged the Toledo City government for hiring over 3,000 Job Order (JO) workers for various programs in the city which total payment reached P167 million in the calendar year 2023.

21/12/2024

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
The Cebu Capitol’s move to inspect Taiheiyo Cement Philippines’ quarry operations following the recent scrutiny of Apo Land and Quarry Corporation (ALQC) reflects a growing awareness of the delicate balance between economic development and environmental stewardship. This action signifies a crucial step in ensuring that industrial activities are conducted responsibly, prioritizing the welfare of communities and the environment over unchecked profits.
Taiheiyo Cement is a significant player in Cebu's construction and industrial sectors, contributing to the province’s economic growth. However, economic contributions should not come at the expense of safety, sustainability, and community well-being. The Capitol’s proactive stance in conducting inspections and audits demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability—a critical approach given the historical impact of quarrying activities on the environment and local populations.
The inspection raises important questions: Are the environmental safeguards in place adequate? Are the communities around these operations adequately consulted and protected? Are rehabilitation and restoration efforts effectively implemented to mitigate environmental damage? These questions should not only guide the inspection but also inform long-term policies on industrial operations in the province.
This development also underscores the need for a comprehensive review of Cebu’s land-use policies, ensuring that industrial operations do not undermine the province's natural resources or expose communities to undue risks. Strict enforcement of environmental laws, regular audits, and genuine community engagement should become standard practices.
For Cebu to achieve sustainable development, balancing industrial progress with environmental conservation and public welfare is non-negotiable. The Capitol’s scrutiny of quarry operations is a welcome initiative that should be sustained, expanded, and complemented by collaborative efforts among stakeholders to protect Cebu’s environment and its people.

https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-news/2024/12/21/2408961/after-apo-land-capitol-inspect-taiheiyos-quarry-ops

21/12/2024

SAFEGUARDING PUBLIC INTEREST
The contentious issue surrounding the 93-1 property agreement, now declared a "done deal," raises critical questions about fairness, inclusivity, and the role of the provincial government in safeguarding public interest. While progress and resolution of long-standing land disputes are commendable, the process should not unilaterally disadvantage the very beneficiaries the agreement was intended to empower.
The province's decision to handle the matter unilaterally, as alleged, risks alienating beneficiaries who have long awaited security over their land ownership. These individuals, many of whom represent vulnerable sectors, deserve a transparent and participatory process. Decisions of such magnitude must account for the voices and welfare of those directly affected. A unilateral approach undermines trust and could perpetuate perceptions of inequity.
The 93-1 agreement involves not just land, but the futures of countless families who have built their lives and dreams on these properties. If the resolution comes at the expense of their rights or imposes undue burdens, it negates the very essence of public service—to uplift and empower citizens.
Collaboration between stakeholders—beneficiaries, local governments, and the province—should have been paramount. Consultation and compromise could have ensured that solutions were equitable and sustainable. Moving forward, mechanisms to ensure inclusivity and transparency in policymaking must be strengthened to avoid repeating similar missteps.
Ultimately, governance should be about balancing progress with compassion, ensuring that development is never achieved at the cost of the people it seeks to serve. For the 93-1 beneficiaries, the hope remains that their voices will still be heard, and their rights upheld in the final implementation of this "done deal."

LINGERING concerns may continue to hound some Cebu City residents who live on land covered by Provincial Ordinance 93-1, but a local legislator considers the is

20/12/2024

IS THIS ALIGNED WITH
RENEWABLE ENERGY?

The call for increased investment in power plants to shield Cebu from energy crises is an urgent and necessary step to ensure energy security. However, the broader question remains: are these investments aligned with sustainable and renewable energy goals?

While addressing the immediate need for reliable energy is critical, it is equally important to consider long-term solutions that do not exacerbate environmental degradation or contribute to the global climate crisis. The absence of a clear push for renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, or hydroelectric power, in the discussion about Cebu's energy future is concerning. Why is there not more emphasis on transitioning to cleaner, greener energy alternatives?

Investing in renewable energy provides several benefits beyond reducing carbon emissions. It creates green jobs, decreases dependence on imported fossil fuels, and shields the economy from the volatility of global fuel prices. Cebu, with its natural resources and geographic advantages, is well-positioned to become a leader in renewable energy development. For instance, its sunny climate is ideal for solar farms, and coastal areas could support wind energy projects.

Balancing the need for immediate energy solutions with a commitment to sustainability should be a priority for both the public and private sectors. Policymakers, investors, and local government units must push for energy projects that not only meet current demands but also pave the way for a more sustainable future. Incentives for renewable energy projects, public-private partnerships, and community-based renewable energy initiatives could accelerate this transition.

Cebu has the opportunity to set an example for other provinces by prioritizing renewable energy in its development agenda. If these investments focus solely on traditional power plants, we risk repeating a cycle of environmental harm and resource dependence. Now is the time to ask: Why not renewable energy? And how can we ensure a just transition toward a cleaner energy landscape for future generations?

FOLLOWING a 13-day brownout in Siargao Island caused by damaged submarine cables, the Cebu Electricity Rights Advocates (Cera) has called for immediate investme

18/12/2024

FILIPINOS WILL BEAR THE BRUNT

The brewing tension between Sara Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. underscores the complexities of political alliances in the Philippines. As two influential political figures clash, ordinary Filipinos are left to wonder: what does this mean for the country's governance and future?

The Duterte-Marcos rift threatens to undermine the stability of an administration already facing numerous challenges. Governance requires unity and focus, but infighting at the highest levels of power distracts from addressing pressing issues such as inflation, unemployment, and public health crises. Instead of working collaboratively to serve the people, leaders are embroiled in disputes that could erode public trust.

For Filipinos, the consequences of this power struggle are significant. Resources and attention may be diverted from vital public services to political maneuvering. Policy implementation could slow down, especially if factions within the government prioritize loyalty over competence. Moreover, the political divide may trickle down to local governments, further polarizing communities and complicating grassroots efforts to address societal needs.

While political disagreements are not uncommon, this feud highlights the fragility of coalition politics in the Philippines. It also raises questions about the priorities of the country's leaders: are they serving the people, or are they more focused on consolidating power?

Filipinos deserve leaders who put the nation's welfare above personal or political rivalries. The Duterte-Marcos conflict must not overshadow the urgent need for effective governance and long-term planning. Citizens should demand accountability and a renewed focus on public service, ensuring that this political turmoil does not derail the country's progress.

Ultimately, the people will bear the brunt of the fallout if leaders fail to rise above their differences and prioritize the greater good.

Duterte vs Marcos

15/12/2024

LET’S REMEMBER THAT AREA
IS LANDSLIDE PRONE

The growing concerns over Apo Land and Quarry Corporation’s (ALQC) operations in Naga City, Cebu, highlight a critical issue: the delicate balance between development and public safety. ALQC’s quarry activities, reportedly contributing to environmental degradation and posing risks to nearby communities, underline the need for stringent oversight and accountability in extractive industries.

Governor Gwen Garcia’s call for an environmental audit and comprehensive risk assessment is a step in the right direction. It reflects a pro-people stance that prioritizes the safety and well-being of residents over economic gains. However, it’s crucial that this is not just a temporary halt but the beginning of a more rigorous regulatory framework. Ensuring that the operations adhere to environmental laws and do not compromise the safety of the community should be non-negotiable.

Residents’ fears are valid, given the history of landslides in the area, and their voices must be central to any decision-making process. The government must ensure that communities are not left vulnerable to disasters caused by neglect or profit-driven practices.

This issue also underscores the need for sustainable development—economic growth must never come at the expense of human lives and the environment. The ongoing investigation should lead to actionable solutions, such as stricter penalties for violations, mandatory community consultations, and investments in safer technologies.

By putting people and the environment first, Cebu can set an example for responsible and inclusive development.

APO Land and Quarry Corp. (ALQC) is potentially facing additional violations related to its quarry operations in the City of Naga, with concerns over possible w

14/12/2024

SUPER HEALTH CENTER IN ARGAO

The groundbreaking of a Super Health Center in Argao, Cebu, marks a positive step towards enhancing healthcare accessibility in rural communities. Senator B**g Go’s support and advocacy for such initiatives highlight the importance of bridging gaps in medical services, especially for underserved populations. These centers aim to decentralize healthcare by providing essential services such as diagnostics, outpatient care, and maternal health support closer to the people.

However, while the project is commendable, its long-term success will depend on proper implementation, sufficient staffing, and operational sustainability. It is crucial for local and national stakeholders to ensure that the center remains well-funded and capable of addressing the community's specific health needs. Moreover, transparency in project management and collaboration with local healthcare providers will be key to achieving its goals.

For the residents of Argao, this initiative represents not just improved access to healthcare but also an opportunity to boost public trust in government-led programs, provided these are executed effectively and inclusively.

SENATOR Christopher “B**g” Go, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, expressed his push for accessible healthcare as he supported the groundbreaking ceremony of a Super Health Center in Barangay Lamacan, Argao, Cebu, on Tuesday, December 3.