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20/09/2024

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20/09/2024

Our final words for tonight.

20/09/2024

Recto courts Singaporean investors, promises simplified business processes

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto has assured Singaporean investors that the Philippines is making business processes easier with the forthcoming Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) law. Speaking at the 4th Philippine-Singapore Business and Investment Summit (PSBIS), Recto highlighted that the bill is designed to attract more foreign investment by streamlining processes and reducing red tape.

The CREATE MORE bill promises to enhance investment incentives, reduce documentary requirements, and establish a personalized tax support system for businesses. Under the new rules, export-oriented enterprises will be exempt from VAT, and those with investments over P15 billion will receive additional incentives. Corporate income tax rates for registered business enterprises (RBEs) will also drop from 25 percent to 20 percent, with additional deductions for power expenses and tourism projects.

Recto emphasized that the bill aims to foster growth in key sectors such as manufacturing, semiconductors, renewable energy, and agribusiness, particularly in the Luzon Economic Corridor. He also invited Singaporean investors to participate in joint ventures for the government’s 186 major infrastructure projects, including the modernization of airports and the development of regional tourism.

The finance chief further noted that the Philippines is becoming a hub for emerging technologies, with initiatives like the Digital Infrastructure Project and National Broadband Program attracting investments in data centers, smart manufacturing, and tech-based agriculture. The government is also developing an AI roadmap to upskill the Filipino workforce and prepare for the digital economy.

Recto concluded by emphasizing the Philippines’ commitment to creating a more business-friendly environment, particularly for Singaporean enterprises, through transformative reforms and partnerships.

20/09/2024

Marbil threatens legal action over Pagcor official’s claim about ex-PNP chief’s involvement with Guo

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil on Thursday, Sept. 19, challenged Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) Vice Chairman Raul Villanueva to disclose the name of the former PNP chief allegedly involved in helping dismissed Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo escape.

Villanueva had previously stated, during a Senate investigation on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), that a former top police officer not only assisted Guo but was also receiving monthly payments from her. However, he did not provide any specific names, instead attributing his claim to “rumors” within the intelligence community.

Marbil expressed frustration, stating that Villanueva’s accusations damage the entire PNP and the government. He insisted on identifying the individual in question and vowed to investigate thoroughly, warning that the implicated officer could face imprisonment if found guilty.

“If he cannot provide the name and evidence, we will file charges against him for maligning the PNP and the entire government,” Marbil said. He further emphasized that Villanueva, having made the statement under oath, must be accountable for his words.

Marbil has already directed the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to coordinate with Pagcor for further information from Villanueva. He made it clear that the PNP will not tolerate baseless allegations that undermine the integrity of the organization.

20/09/2024

‘Flexible’ MATATAG Curriculum set for rollout in Q2 of SY 2024-2025 — DepEd

The Department of Education (DepEd) will implement new guidelines for the MATATAG Curriculum starting this month, in the second quarter of the 2024-2025 school year. These guidelines, designed to be flexible, aim to help schools better manage teaching resources and schedules.

DepEd announced that starting September 25, 2024, public schools will receive technical support to adjust their class programs. The guidelines, issued under DepEd Order No. 09, s. 2024, allow schools to adapt their schedules to meet their specific needs, addressing challenges like staffing and facilities shortages.

To ensure smooth implementation, the new provisions offer schools three options for adjusting instructional time:

• Option A: All subjects will have 45 minutes of instructional time per day, five days a week.
• Option B: Schools can allocate 50, 55, or 60 minutes per subject, with English, Math, Science, and GMRC/Values Education taught five times a week. Other subjects like Filipino, Araling Panlipunan, MAPEH, and TLE will be taught four times a week.
• Option C: If neither of the previous options is applicable, schools can propose other combinations, provided the total learning time is at least 5 hours and 30 minutes per day.

DepEd emphasized that the flexible guidelines are meant to ensure an equitable distribution of teaching loads and protect the welfare of teachers. Schools can propose alternative schedules, subject to approval from their Schools Division Superintendent.

20/09/2024

Abalos named top-performing Cabinet member; DILG hailed as most trusted agency

Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) was recognized as the best-performing Cabinet member of President Ferdinand “Bongbong’’ Marcos Jr. This recognition came alongside the DILG being named the most trusted government agency in the country.

In an emotional address during the DILG Field Officers National Convention-Luzon Cluster in Clark, Pampanga, Abalos expressed his deep gratitude to DILG personnel for their dedication. He highlighted the department’s achievements, including receiving the highest audit grade, an “unqualified opinion,” from the Commission on Audit (COA) for two consecutive years due to the agency’s operational efficiency.

Abalos also acknowledged the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) for being named the “2024 Best Employer” with a score of 9.22/10 in a survey conducted by a leading newspaper and business intelligence portal, Statista.

Among other key accomplishments, Abalos pointed to the successful recruitment of former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (M**F) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) rebels into the Philippine National Police (PNP) for the first time. He also emphasized the success of the Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) program, which has led to a 700% increase in drug seizures under the Marcos administration compared to the previous one.

Additionally, the DILG resolved the long-standing issue of electricity shortages in 29 provinces with the help of the National Grid Corporation, and it played a crucial role in securing a special COA fund for the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, ensuring the success of the Hajj pilgrimage.

Under Abalos’ leadership, key fugitives were apprehended, including the dismissed mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, Alice Guo, and fugitive Pastor Apollo Quiboloy Jr.

20/09/2024

Garin accuses Ong of lying about taking maintenance medicine

During a House quad-committee hearing on Thursday, September 19, Iloilo 1st District Rep. and former Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Janette Garin fact-checked Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) personality Cassandra Ong’s claim about taking “maintenance” medicine. Garin, also a doctor, called Ong a “pathological liar” for not being able to specify her medication.

Ong, 24, had previously mentioned that her “low sugar” was no longer an issue because of her maintenance. Garin asked Ong about the specific medications, to which Ong replied vaguely, saying she was unsure and that her medications were for her blood and anxiety. Garin pressed Ong further, noting that iced tea, which Ong drank after a previous health issue, was full of sugar, implying her hypoglycemia was self-inflicted.

Garin expressed concern over Ong’s demeanor, stating, “It is very troubling for me as a mother and as a doctor, the way Ms. Cassie Ong lies automatically.” Garin’s remarks came after Ong’s questionable response about her health and medication during the hearing.

Ong, who represents Lucky South 99, an alleged illegal POGO in Porac, Pampanga, did not respond to the accusation.

20/09/2024

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo confirms reelection bid for 2025 polls

Pampanga 2nd District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has announced her plan to seek reelection in the May 2025 mid-term elections.

“Former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is running for a second term as congresswoman of the second district of Pampanga,” said Lance Chua Suarez, a representative from Arroyo’s office, in a message to House reporters on Thursday, September 19.

At 77, this decision rules out any possibility of Arroyo seeking a higher office in the upcoming elections. Members of the House of Representatives are allowed to serve up to three consecutive three-year terms.

Arroyo, who previously held the position of House Speaker, served as the country’s president from 2001 to 2010. She is also the chairperson emeritus of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) party.

20/09/2024

Quiboloy lawyer denies existence of ‘Angels of Death’ at KOJC, calls accusations absurd

DAVAO CITY – The Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) has denied claims about the existence of “Angels of Death” within its premises, calling the accusations by the Philippine National Police (PNP) absurd.

Speaking during the “Pulso ng Bayan” program on DZAR 1026 News on Wednesday, September 18, KOJC legal counsel Israelito Torreon rejected the allegations, saying they are part of an ongoing smear campaign against Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.

“The allegations are nothing but another attempt to smear the congregation. They are laying the groundwork for future fabricated charges – perhaps even murder or other similar accusations – based on these concocted stories,” Torreon said.

Torreon clarified that the KOJC only has “prayer warriors” who dedicate their time to praying for strength, especially during times of persecution, comparing their faith to the struggles faced by early Christians and other religious groups.

“We’re forced to respond to these accusations because if we do not, the people might think we’re guilty of the new charges against Pastor Quiboloy,” Torreon added, dismissing the allegations as attacks against Quiboloy’s reputation.

He argued that if the so-called Angels of Death existed, the KOJC would have used them during past conflicts with the PNP. He urged the accusers to reflect on their motives and ensure their claims were not for personal gain.

Recently, five former KOJC members reported to the PNP that they were s*xually molested by Quiboloy, who is currently facing charges of child abuse and human trafficking in the Philippines. He is also wanted by the FBI in the United States for multiple cases, including s*x trafficking of children and conspiracy.

Torreon, in a Facebook post, reiterated that the allegations against Quiboloy are false and baseless. He advised accusers not to trade their integrity for money, warning that those manipulating them for selfish purposes would abandon them when they no longer serve their interests.

He also mentioned that the KOJC plans to take legal action against those responsible for tarnishing Quiboloy’s name and the Kingdom Nation. Torreon emphasized that the accusations are politically motivated and are part of malicious propaganda.

He urged the public not to jump to conclusions and to critically assess the information they receive online. Torreon emphasized that Quiboloy, like any other accused, is presumed innocent until proven guilty, and the burden of proof lies with the prosecution.

“The truth will prevail in the proper legal arena,” Torreon said, urging people to avoid believing baseless accusations against Quiboloy and the KOJC, which he described as a community built on peace, love, and faith.

20/09/2024

Marcos promises no farmer will be left behind in agrarian reform program

President Marcos assured agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) that the government will continue to support their dreams of owning the lands they till. Speaking during the distribution of E-titles and Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) in Iloilo on Thursday, Sept. 19, he emphasized that the government understands the challenges farmers face in acquiring land.

“It is our promise that we will not abandon you. This is part of our advocacy that no farmer will be left behind,” Marcos said.

The President highlighted that the real celebration is not just about numbers but about the success of farmers and families who now own their lands and no longer need to rent.

On that day, 2,643.5 hectares of agricultural land were distributed to 1,932 ARBs across Iloilo, Aklan, Antique, Capiz, and Guimaras. Of those, 1,725 ARBs received E-titles, while 207 were granted CLOAs. The land distribution is expected to improve the living conditions of farmers.

Marcos expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he received in Iloilo, known as the “Heart of the Philippines.” He assured the ARBs that the titles they received would free them from debt, secure their welfare, and give them the opportunity to plan for a better future.

“Each title awarded gives freedom to the farmers—freedom from debt, the assurance of a secure future for their families, and the ability to plan for a brighter tomorrow,” he added.

20/09/2024

P47.94-B worth of illegal drugs, lab equipment seized under Marcos admin, says PDEA

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) reported that P47.94 billion worth of illegal drugs, laboratory equipment, and chemicals were seized under the administration of President Marcos from July 1, 2022, to August 31, 2024.

In its latest report titled “The Numbers of the National Anti-Drug Campaign,” PDEA detailed that authorities confiscated 6,231.13 kilograms of shabu, 74.72 kilograms of co***ne, 5,398.35 kilograms of ma*****na, and 109,169 ecstasy tablets during this period.

The report also highlighted that 7,050 high-value targets (HVTs) were arrested in 81,679 anti-drug operations nationwide. Additionally, 1,137 drug dens and one clandestine laboratory were dismantled.

The agency emphasized the success of the government’s revitalized anti-drug campaign, with 29,032 barangays now declared drug-cleared. Only 6,484 barangays remain affected by illegal drugs. A drug-cleared barangay refers to a village previously impacted by drugs but later classified as cleared by the Regional Oversight Committee on Barangay Drug Clearing (ROCBDC).

The total number of individuals arrested in the anti-drug campaign reached 110,814 during this period.

19/09/2024

Villafuerte pushes for bigger 2025 DOH budget to build more super health centers

Camarines Sur 2nd District Rep. LRay Villafuerte is urging for a higher 2025 budget for the Department of Health (DOH) to support the construction of more super health centers and upgrade existing ones across the Philippines.

The 2025 National Expenditure Program (NEP) has set aside P297.6 billion for the health sector, a decrease from the current year’s budget of P308.3 billion. Villafuerte believes a bigger budget would help fund key programs like the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP), which is responsible for building super health centers in partnership with local government units (LGUs).

Villafuerte described these centers as “better versions” of rural health units (RHUs) and medium-sized polyclinics, designed to reduce overcrowding in hospitals. He stressed the need for sufficient funding to equip these centers with quality medical equipment and ensure enough doctors and nurses are hired.

“This will prevent existing and future super health centers from becoming empty, grass-filled structures that at times end up being used only for card games and drinking sessions,” he said.

Villafuerte also pointed out that President Marcos emphasized the importance of super health centers in his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA), where he highlighted the role of LGUs in staffing these centers with adequate medical professionals.

Higher funding for the DOH, Villafuerte said, will guarantee that super health centers don’t end up like some barangay health centers that are left empty and underutilized.

The House of Representatives has already begun plenary debates on the proposed 2025 national budget, with the DOH’s budget set for discussion on Monday, Sept. 23.

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