31 Octubre,2024 Huwebes

supports 35th National Statistics Month October, Advancing data and statistics through digital transformation,a  road to empowered nation

supports World Food Day October 16, 2024

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Against all odds, public schools of  4th class city beat Metro Manila

By Creselda Canda-Lopez

“If you look at the names of top-performing schools, it’s usually  cities with large purses,” Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara said during EDCOM 2’s visit to  two schools on Tuesday, October 29 small city in Nueva Ecija have just schooled Metro Manila in  nationwide exam.

Despite operating on a shoestring budget, two public schools from  fourth-class Gapan City outperformed over 300 public and private schools in Metro Manila in the latest National Achievement Test.

Numbers  tell  story. Both  Gapan East Integrated School and Kapalangan National High School beat over 90% of Metro Manila schools in problem-solving, information literacy and critical thinking.

Nationwide,  two schools achieved “above average” scores in all three test categories,  Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) said. 

Gapan East’s score of 64.2 and Kapalangan’s score of 60.6 in problem-solving beat over 300 out of 342 Metro Manila schools. Both also soared above  national average of 44.1 in this category.

In information literacy, Gapan East scored 62 and Kapalangan 60.1 both well above  42.8 national average. For critical thinking, Gapan East achieved 59.7 and Kapalangan 59.4, leaving the national average of 40.3 far behind. This rare win comes from  city operating on just around P9.6 million in local education funds as of 2021. This is 40% below  average for fourth-class cities and 92% less than  city with lowest special education fund in Metro Manila (Navotas City, with P127 million).

For others, it’s a rare success story in a country that has often attributed poor performance to schools’ lack of funds. 

For experts at EDCOM 2, it’s  model of what can be achieved when local government, schools division officials and  community rally behind cash-strapped schools.

“Yet Gapan is doing above average and showing good results with  fairly average budget among cities and local government units…  indicator of quality,” Angara said in  EDCOM 2 press release.

Achievement  has drawn education experts to Gapan, with EDCOM 2 and UNICEF Philippines investigating how these schools managed to excel despite  limitations of their special education fund.

Special  education fund is  fund for basic education that is collected from local governments’ real property tax. It is  fund used by local government units to build new classrooms and procure new books and learning materials, among others. 

Gapan achieved its cityhood in August 2021. It is 4th city income class with  poverty incidence of 12.26% as of 2021 data  slightly below Nueva Ecija’s average poverty incidence at 13.9%. 

City  has 41 public schools. When all of its maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE) budgets are combined with  city’s special education fund, it shows  P1,599 in public funds is spent on each student on average, according to EDCOM 2. 

Gapan’s experience highlights  need for strategic spending of limited funds and for DepEd to collaborate with local communities and local governments, according to the commission. 

“Complementing  national government’s School MOOE funding with partnerships, donations, and LGU support have enabled  school heads and teachers of Gapan East Integrated School and Kapalangan National High School to address resource gaps and foster conducive learning environments,” EDCOM 2 said.

Visit   included DepEd officials and representatives from UNICEF Philippines  also shows Gapan’s success stems from resources being pooled together from private donors “with  focus on developing foundational skills in literacy and numeracy.”

During  visit, officials found  both schools still face challenges in resources. Gapan East Integrated School Principal Julita Aguilar revealed that while they have computers, they lack internet connectivity.  School  also has one building marked for condemnation.

While increasing schools’ MOOE is goal, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said, schools like Gapan that focus on direct learning and student development are already seeing clear gains.

“We need to review how we compute  School MOOE… needs to truly reflect  needs on the ground and also  good spending strategy from school leader,” the senator stressed.

There may be relief on horizon for schools like Gapan East and Kapalangan. 

For 2025, DepEd has adopted  modified funding formula that will increase School MOOE allocation by 32%, according to EDCOM 2.

Department of Budget and Management has also committed to implementing new formula in full for 2026. Based on EDCOM 2’s estimates, this could result in  estimated 85% increase in schools’ overall MOOE budget.

While EDCOM 2 welcomes  projected increase in schools’ funds, it also “recommends  DepEd further review  minimum service standards to enable teachers to adopt learner-centered and inquiry-based approaches.”

EDCOM 2 Executive Director Karol Mark Yee said: “for instance, what are  needs of schools implementing special curricular programs, like science elementary and secondary schools, on top of  usual operating costs of public schools ,what minimum service standards would support and foster learning as envisioned in recent curricular reforms?”

31 Octubre,2024 Huwebes

supports 35th National Statistics Month October, Advancing data and statistics through digital transformation,a  road to empowered nation

supports World Food Day October 16, 2024

No to Divorce!!!

Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez

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Happy Birthday Rosita Belmonte-Jose more birthdays to come

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Leni disputes Naga LGU’s ‘irresponsible’ report on typhoon aid

By Nidz Godino

“We have been doing relief operations since Day 1, and to claim that we only released 200 packs in Naga will make  mockery of  sacrifices of everyone who has been helping us,” former Vice President Leni Robredo said in  social media post sharing  screengrab of  city government’s summary report.

Robredo called out Naga City government  for its “irresponsible” misrepresentation of aid distribution efforts by her non-profit organization in  aftermath of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name: Trami). 

Naga City government had claimed in  now-deleted post  Angat Buhay had distributed just 200 relief packs to  storm-affected residents of the city. Its report also tabulated larger aid contributions from  Office of the Vice President, Sen. Ramon Revilla and the Department of Social Welfare and Development. 

Angat Buhay was listed as having distributed aid to just one barangay out of 27.
 
Robredo said city government’s report “does not reflect correct data.” 

The former vice president highlighted  substantial volunteer force supporting their operations, noting that in Naga alone, they average approximately 1,200 volunteers daily. 

She added that their relief efforts have been possible through private sector partnerships.

Speaking partly in Bicolano, Robredo pointed out that their aid distribution has been witnessed by all barangays and is conducted without fanfare or formal programs. 

She urged  city government to ensure accuracy when reporting about Angat Buhay’s activities, stating, “we only have our clean name as capital, which is why we defend it.” 

In  separate post, Raphael Magno, executive director of Angat Buhay, also criticized city government for its report. “To announce that we only gave 200 packs, despite providing more than what local government gave, is  disservice to  efforts of our partners and volunteers,” he said. 

“Beyond Naga, we have stretched our resources to support other communities affected by Typhoon Kristine, filling in the gaps  that’s how our Angat Bayanihan Volunteer Network operates,” Magno added.

Kristine tore through Naga City and  Bicol Region last week, unleashing massive floods  plunged entire communities underwater. 

Angat Buhay  raised P24 million in just four days after it opened its donation drive. 

Organization  has accepted numerous donations from private citizens, public officials and celebrities at its headquarters in Museo ng Pag-asa in Quezon City. 

31 Octubre,2024 Huwebes

supports 35th National Statistics Month October, Advancing data and statistics through digital transformation,a  road to empowered nation

supports World Food Day October 16, 2024

No to Divorce!!!

Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez

No to SOGIE bill

PM for any hospital discharge problem

Happy Birthday Loida Tajan-Ocampo, more birthdays to come

Happy Birthday Rosita Belmonte-Jose more birthdays to come

Happy Birthday Jo Ephraim Lopez more birthdays to come

“Kimona” Ternocon 2025 continues to champion Fil dress with added focus

By Cynthia Montojo

“I had  privilege of attending first Ternocon in 2018 and I have been in constant awe watching it evolve,  creativity of our young designers all while remaining deeply rooted in Filipino design and craftsmanship has been nothing short of inspiring,” Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) President Kaye Tinga said in her speech during Ternocon 2025’s recent unveiling of its new finalists and semifinalists in Bench Tower, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.

Kimona,CCP, in  statement, defines  Kimona as  traditional “camisa or pull-over blouse” for Filipinas.

For Ternocon’s 2025 edition,  annual Filipino dress workshops and competition series organized by  CCP and Bench shines  spotlight not only on Terno, but also on other facets of  Filipina traditional dress like Balintawak and Kimona.

 “It is this blend of innovation and petition that makes turn upon truly special,” she stressed.

“Ternocon has served as  platform for our brand rich in Filipino culture and heritage, in partnership with  CCP to showcase our country’s culture – culture through  Philippine dress crafted by  artistry of our Filipino artisans and designers,has always been our passion to promote Filipino culture through fashion design…with Ternocon, we preserve  integral part of our Filipino heritage through education, exhibition, and public awareness,” Suyen Corporation Chairman and Chief Executive officer Ben Chan said in his speech.

According to him, if last year,  mentorships and contest revolved around  Balintawak, this year, Ternocon tackles not only Terno and Balintawak, but also Kimona and other facets of  Filipino dress in workshops, mentorships, competition and final runway show that usually comprise  annual convention.

“This year, we received  overwhelming 82 applications we carefully selected  12 finalists…these individuals hail from across our beautiful archipelago  from Ilocos Norte to Davao; from La Union to South Cotabato and from bustling cities of Metro Manila…it is  testament to  widespread talent and passion for our national dress,” shared Tinga.

The 12 finalists are:  

• Windell Madis,
• Geomarie Hernandez,
• Johnoel Marin,
• Patrick Lazol,
• Jericho Gonzales,
• Irene Subang,
• Bryan Peralta,
• Peach Garde,
• Ram Silva,
• Lexter Badana,
• Jared Palmejar,
• Monina Gatan.

Meanwhile, the two semi-finalists are:

• Xioti Chiu
• and Jema Gamer.

Finalists  and semifinalists hail from Ilocos Norte, La Union, Tarlac, Batangas, Capiz, Silay, Iloilo, South Cotabato, Davao, Makati, Taguig, Quezon City, and Manila.

Finalists  had their first mentoring-workshop last June 17 to 22 at  Training Center of the Baguio Country Club where they started working on their capsule three-piece collection composed of  formal Terno with Pañuelo;  formal Balintawak with  Alampay and Tapis, and  formal Kimona with  Alampay and  Patadyong ( tube-like wraparound skirt).

For  competition,  finalists are tasked to draw inspiration from 20th-century Philippine contemporary art, encompassing various movements, perspectives, and principles, such as works embodied by National Artist Ang Kiukok, National Artist Abdulmari Imao, Lao Lianben, and Anita Magsaysay-Ho.

“However, and I would like to reiterate, we highly discourage and will not allow  finalists to use facsimile copies and or digitally applying any image of  artwork onto  fabric in creating their capsule collection,” Ternocon Artistic Director Ricardo Eric Cruz said in his speech.

Guided by some of the country’s experts in design, this year’s workshop is led by Ternocon’s Chief Mentor since 2018, Inno Sotto, along with Ezra Santos, Lulu Tan-Gan, Rhett Eala, TernoCon’s Founding Artistic Director Gino Gonzales and Cruz. The workshop lectures include topics on the history of the Terno, Balintawak and Kimona design parameters; knitting and fabric manipulation; new technology, colors and patterns; traditional techniques, understructure and embellishments.

“Goal is to continue what was already started: to popularize  Terno as our national garment and stick to the proper measurement, how it should be worn…these are  garments  somehow stand out and differentiate us from our Asian neighbors and our Western counterparts. We have to find ways on how to improve it, while at the same time conserving its core aesthetic elements,” Cruz explains in  statement.

CCP and Bench, in the same statement, say  they continue to champion  best of Philippine arts and culture through Ternocon, highlighting  importance of preserving tradition while adapting to contemporary trends. 

“With  rise of  Terno in modern outfits today, it is essential to maintain its correct form despite  many variations it takes on,” CCP and Bench add.

“As we approach the final competition day, the excitement is palpable,” Tinga said in her speech.

“Our finalists are feeling  pressure but we’re all eagerly anticipating  moment when stage lights are up, showcasing  beautiful turnout created by both our mentors and finalists… promises to be another fabulous and meaningful evening celebrating best of Filipino design and craftsmanship,” she said of  convention’s culmination with  cultural fashion show on January 26, 2025 at  reception hall of  Philippine International Convention Center since CCP’s main building is still under renovation. 

“As we have championed over  years, you can expect  showcase of talent and artistry brought to life, I would like to congratulate  finalists who have poured their art, their heart into their creations and to thank the seasoned mentors for selflessly sharing their expertise in inspiring the finalists to present the best of what our country has to offer,” Chan assured.

31 Octubre,2024 Huwebes

supports 35th National Statistics Month October, Advancing data and statistics through digital transformation,a  road to empowered nation

supports World Food Day October 16, 2024

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Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez

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‘Pulang Araw’ stars Sanya Lopez, Ashley Ortega, justice for comfort women

By Cynthia Montojo

“Napakabigat po ano… I mean, kanina pa sumasakit ang batok ko kaka-control ng nararamdaman ko…artista lang naman po ako…sa totoo lang po pero ramdam ko ‘yung mga ipinaglalaban ng mga kababaihan natin dito,” Sanya Lopez broke into tears while recalling  first time she met some of  lolas (grandmothers) who were comfort women during World War II. Her “Pulang Araw” co-star Ashley Ortega revealed that it was  same scene when they first met  lolas before they filmed  ongoing war series on GMA-7. 

Sanya and Ashley were invited to Pandesal Forum on comfort women during World War II last October 24 held in Kamuning Bakery in Quezon City. 

She currently plays Teresita Borromeo,  bodabil (vaudeville) star from  wealthy family  catches  attention of  ruthless Japanese Imperial Army Colonel Yuta Saitoh (played by Dennis Trillo). 

“Naiiyak ako. Sa totoo po, ganito rin po ‘yung naramdaman ko noong una ko silang nakasama…pasensiya na po kasi nu’ng nakausap ko sila, sobrang durug na durog din po ako…sobrang sakit po sa puso na marinig ‘yung kuwento nila,” she stressed. 

Sanya recalled meeting two of the lolas when she visited  organization Lila Pilipina. 

“Isa po sa mga tumatak sa akin doon ‘yung kuwento ni Lola Isang (Narcisa)…sabi niya po, kapag nakikita niya ang mga kabataan ngayon, ‘masaya sila, kung siguro ako ‘yun ngayon, siguro ang saya-saya ko…doon ko na-realize na sobrang suwerte pala ng henerasyon ngayon, na hindi natin naranasan ‘yung naranasan nila nu’ng panahon ng Hapon…napaka-palad po sobra natin na hindi natin naranasan ‘yun,” Sanya said in tears. 

She also appealed for justice because there are only  few lolas who are alive today.

“Nakakalungkot po na dalawa na lang po sa kanila ang natitirang buhay…kailan kaya nila matatanggap ang hustisya na nararapat para sa kanila…kasi konti na lang sila, so kailan pa, ‘di ba po?” Sanya said. 

 Ashley agreed with her co-star. She also recounted her own experience meeting  lolas because she is also among actresses tapped to play  comfort woman. 

Ashley plays Sister Manuela Apolonio,  nun who was dragged by Japanese Imperial Army soldiers when they saw her inside  church to be one of the comfort women. 

“Noong una, kinabahan talaga ako kasi magiging honest po ako…hindi pa ako masyadong aware sa lahat ng mga nangyari sa comfort women…but I am really grateful na na-meet ko ‘yung mga lolas… I was heartbroken…tama sinabi ni Ate Sanya… lahat kami nag-iiyakan kami noon…may kasama kaming creatives and press, pati sila naiiyak, hindi lang kaming mga artista ang gaganap ng role nila,” she recalled. 

She noted that just like her, she has read feedback and comments from young people who were like her who had limited knowledge about  events and atrocities of World War II in the Philippines. 

“Ngayon lang nila nalalaman na may ganito palang nangyayari during World War II. ..’yun ang gusto talaga namin iparating sa mga hindi pa completely aware sa mga pinagdaanan nila…now I am happy na ‘yung mga students siguro na nalaman na nila ang mga nangyari and I think it’s about time na you know isalaysay namin ‘yung mga istorya ng mga comfort women…para hindi maulit ang nangyari noon at para mabigyan ng hustisya ‘yung mga comfort women natin,” Ashley said. 

She agreed with Sanya and  calls for justice for comfort women, many of those still alive are yet to receive them. 

Ashley noted that as an actress, she felt  raw emotions felt by comfort women while playing her role. 

“‘Yung mga iba hindi pa nakakatanggap ng hustisya at ‘yun siguro ‘yung pinakamasakit na pwedeng maramdaman nila…kasi kami bilang mga comfort women (in the show), alam mo ‘yung parang naranasan din namin ‘yung naranasan din namin ‘yung naranasan nila… ‘yung mga eksenang mabibigat talaga, na iniisip ko every after scene na,.. ‘grabe nangyari talaga ito…hindi lang pala ito teleserye…so what more pa kaya ‘yung mga totoong comfort women na talagang pinagdaanan nila ‘yun…so talagang masakit talaga sa puso,” she said. 

Ashley is happy that the cast and their show “Pulang Araw” can be voice for  comfort women and victims of World War II. 

“I’m happy na naging voice ang ‘Pulang Araw’ at naging aware ang mga kabataan natin kung ano ang nangyari hindi lang sa comfort women story pero ‘yung mga nangyari talaga noong giyera…napakaraming Pilipino ang nag-sakripisyo at lumaban,” she said. 

“Pulang Araw” currently airs on GMA-7 after “24 Oras.” It remains in the Top 10 most streamed show in Netflix Philippines since it premiered last July 29. 

TODAY’S GOD’S MESSAGE

1 Peter 5:8-9

⁸ Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. ⁹ Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

31 Octubre,2024 Huwebes

supports 35th National Statistics Month October, Advancing data and statistics through digital transformation,a  road to empowered nation

supports World Food Day October 16, 2024

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Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez

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PM for any hospital discharge problem

Report lazy government workers, fixers- CSC

By J.Lo

“Criminal liability shall also be incurred through  commission of bribery, extortion or maliciously soliciting favor in cash or in kind… Penal Code and other special laws shall also apply,” Civil Service Commission (CSC) has urged  public to report fixers and indolent government workers who refuse to act on valid requests for documents or services without justifiable cause.

In its quarterly magazine The Civil Service Reporter,  CSC enumerated acts and omissions that can be considered violations of Republic Act 11032 or Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act.

Government workers who refuse, without due cause, to accept applications or requests with complete requirements must be reported to  CSC’s feedback and assistance arm, Contact Center ng Bayan (CCB).

Imposition of additional requirements and costs not listed in  concerned agency’s Citizen’s Charter must also be reported.

Inefficient government employees must be reported for their failure to render services and failure to provide written notice of disapproval of an application or request,  CSC noted.

Failure to attend to applicants and failure or refusal to issue official receipts are violations of RA 11032.

Fixing and collusion with fixers should also be reported.

Violation of RA 11032 is  administrative liability, punishable with  six-month suspension on first offense and dismissal from  service, disqualification from holding public office and forfeiture of retirement benefits on second offense.

Public  may report violations through text message at 0908-881-6565, email@contactcenterngbayan.gov.ph or  CCB website.

“Criminal liability shall also be incurred through  commission of bribery, extortion or maliciously soliciting favor in cash or in kind. .. Penal Code and other special laws shall also apply,”  CSC said.

Public  may report violations through text message at 0908-881-6565, email@contactcenterngbayan.gov.ph or the CCB website.

31 Octubre,2024 Huwebes

supports 35th National Statistics Month October, Advancing data and statistics through digital transformation,a  road to empowered nation

supports World Food Day October 16, 2024

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Headlines

Leon is now Super Typhoon

By J.Lo

“There is a possibility of life-threatening inundation from rising sea water along with high waves in  low-lying coastal communities,” Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned of  high risk of storm surge in Northern Luzon as Super Typhoon Leon passes over Philippine Sea.

Tropical cyclone wind signal No. 4 has been raised over Batanes, with winds greater than 118 to 184 kilometers per hour expected.

PAGASA said  storm surge could be more than three meters high in  provinces of Batanes and Cagayan.

It warned of significant damage to communities in low-lying coastal areas in Basco, Itbayat, Ivana, Mahatao, Sabtang, Uyugan in Batanes, as well as in Calayan in Cagayan.

PAGASA said  hoisting of wind signal No. 5 has not been ruled out. Leon (Kong-Rey) was forecast to make close approach or make landfall in Batanes last night or this morning and will be near or at peak intensity during its closest approach.

Signal No. 3 was hoisted over  eastern portion of Babuyan Islands and  northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan.

Meanwhile, signal No.2 was raised over  rest of Babuyan Islands,  rest of mainland Cagayan, northern portion of Isabela, Apayao, Kalinga, northern and eastern portions of Abra and  eastern portion of Mountain Province (Paracelis) and Ilocos Norte.

TCWS No. 1 was raised over  rest of Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya,  rest of Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet,  rest of Abra, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Nueva Ecija, Aurora and northeastern Tarlac.

Leon was monitored 215 km east southeast of Basco, Batanes as of 4 in the afternoon. and was moving northwestward at 20 kph, carrying maximum sustained winds of 185 kph near center and gustiness of up to 230 kph.

Leon is forecast to make landfall in Taiwan this afternoon and may exit Philippine area of responsibility by tonight or early Friday morning. Trough of Leon may bring scattered rains over Metro Manila, the Visayas and  rest of Luzon.

Mindanao may see isolated rains due to localized thunderstorms.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on local governments to prepare for  impact of Leon,  has developed into  Super Typhoon and is posing  threat to northern Luzon.

“Unfortunately, it seems that another one is coming so we have to prepare for it thoroughly,” the President said during  opening of  Maersk Optimus Distribution Center in Calamba City, Laguna.

Office of Civil Defense administrator Ariel Nepomuceno said  government is always assuming the worst-case scenario in its preparations. Agencies are replenishing food and non-food items and are making sure that water is available and rescue teams are ready, he added.  OCD also urged residents and local government units in Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Bicol to prepare for  arrival of Leon.

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said 2,951 families from Regions 1, 2 and 3 were evacuated. In Region 5, at least 40,249 families or 161,768 individuals remain in evacuation centers.

As of 8 in the morning Wednesday, dam officials resumed release of water from Ambuklao Dam and Binga Dam, both in Benguet, while Magat Dam in Isabela continues to release water.

One gate of Ambuklao Dam was opened at 0.5 meter and began releasing water at 91.19 cubic meter per second (cms) while one gate of Binga Dam was opened at 0.5 meter and started releasing water at 78.28 cms. One gate of Magat Dam remained open at two meters since last week, releasing water at 355 cms.

Water  level of Angat Dam has reached 202.53 meters while Ipo Dam in Bulacan dropped by 0.30 meters and reached 100.24 meters.

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines cancelled six domestic flights while Cebu Pacific cancelled four domestic flights due to bad weather.

PAL and CEB said affected passengers can convert their tickets to non-expiring travel credits equivalent to  unused segment of  ticket, excluding ticketing service charge.

Meanwhile, 134 people were stranded in ports across Southern Tagalog and Bicol due to strong winds and rough seas triggered by Leon as of noon of Oct. 30, the Philippine Coast Guard reported.

Also stranded were 19 rolling cargoes, five ships and 11 motorized boats in four Coast Guard districts in Southern Tagalog, Bicol, Northwestern Luzon and in Northeastern Luzon. Thirty-eight vessels and 13 motorized boats have taken shelter due to bad weather.

Philippine Ports Authority reported cancellation of trips in three of their Port Management Offices. At noon yesterday, their PMO in Mindoro said trips of all fastcraft going to Batangas have been cancelled.  

30 Octubre,2024 Miyerkules

supports 35th National Statistics Month October, Advancing data and statistics through digital transformation,a  road to empowered nation

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Duterte is liable for crimes vs humanity over drug war killings

By Nidz Godino

“This admission is significant as it highlights cases are now right for filing against those responsible for  extrajudicial killings during drug war,” House Committee on Human Rights Chairman Rep. Bienvenido Abante (Manila, 6th District)  said at  press conference former President Rodrigo Duterte’s admission of “shortcomings” in his war on drugs further underscores his liability for crimes against humanity.

Abante argued  drug war “meets all  elements of willful killing,” citing Republic Act 9851 or the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity.

This was also in reference to former Sen. Leila de Lima’s recent statement at the House Quad Committee’s ninth public hearing, where also argued that Duterte could face penalties under this law.

De Lima: ‘Davao Model’ resembles Davao Death Squad’s reward systemThe “Davao Model,” which allegedly involves rewarding police officers with cash for each drug suspect killed, mi…

Headlines | Philstar.comA portal of daily newspapers covering Philippine news headlines, business, lifestyle, advertisement, sports and …

It can be recalled that former president owned up to  consequences of his drug war campaign during Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s first hearing on the issue. 

Duterte himself said he should be the one “held accountable and detained” instead of  police who “only followed his orders.” 

However, despite this explicit statement,  former president backtracked in his answers to senators’ questions that he is not responsible for the likes of 17-year-old Kian delos Santos who was shot by police during anti-drug operations in 2017.

Abante outlined four factors that qualify former president’s drug war as  crime against humanity, beginning with extrajudicial killings  human rights groups estimate have claimed up to 30,000 lives.

Second, he said  most victims were civilians “suspected by police authorities of involvement in drug-related activities” who were denied due process to defend themselves against  allegations.

This led Abante to his third point: testimony from several resource persons, many of whom were Duterte appointees, indicated that  killings occurred as part of  “widespread, systematic attack” nationwide.

Lastly,  human rights committee chairman said EJKs were “executed under  state, organizational policy”  Duterte himself coined as  war on drugs. He added that  possible reward system for police officers who killed drug suspects could be another contributing factor.

“This must be recognized as evidence for all present and future cases on war on drugs,” Abante said.  

Section 8 of Republic Act 9851 identifies who may be held liable for crimes against humanity, including individuals who commit the crime, order or encourage its commission or attempted commission, or act as accomplices.

Meanwhile, Section 10 stipulates  superiors are “criminally responsible as principals for crimes committed by their subordinates” under their effective command and control. 

This responsibility arises from either direct command or  failure to prevent  crime, especially if they knew or should have known about it and did not take  necessary measures to stop it.

Rep. Dan Fernandez (Santa Rosa, Lone District), who chairs  House Committee on Public Order and Safety, also cited Section 15 of the same law. 

This provision states  Philippine courts, in cases of crimes against humanity, “shall be guided by” international law, conventions and judicial decisions of international courts and tribunals.   

Asked whether Duterte should be prosecuted under RA 9851, Fernandez said, “I think it’s only proper that existing law be followed and that we let  wheels of justice prevail.”

House lawmakers also made it clear that Duterte is not only liable for EJKs in his drug war but also for institutionalizing violence during his presidency.

Abante did not mince words when he told reporters that Duterte’s remarks at  Senate hearing on Monday, October 28, exhibited  “normalization of brutality.”

“What we witnessed during  former president’s testimony was  shocking normalization of brutality,  normalization of death and  disregard for due process that has infected our legal institutions,” he said.

Abante said  former president’s “nonchalant attitude” toward life is also rooted in  thousands of EJK under his watch. 

“His casual language, his swearing in formal proceedings mirrors  erosion of his standards in his administration where  value of life itself was cast aside,” he added. 

The lawmaker could not help but say that Duterte’s words and actions carried with them  “disregard for human life” as victims were deprived of  safeguards and due process they should have been given as mere suspects in  illegal drug trade.  

Laughter and applause filled  Senate as Duterte spoke at  hearing , reaction that, for Abante, reflected  social norms  former president had established.

While Duterte’s foul and explicit words have often been downplayed as jokes, Fernandez said  lower chamber will not tolerate this should  former president attend  Quad Comm hearings. 

“If the former president curses in  Senate and we allow it here, what’s to stop others from making those kinds of statements as well?” he said.

Duterte also “gaslighted”  nation and attempted to “rewrite history” by justifying  killings with  belief that “there will be one less criminal, not  hearing in the service of truth, it was  forum for denial for him to rationalize  indefensible,” Abante said.

The former president has yet to make  appearance at  House probe into his war on drugs,  was  first to invite him before Senate. Duterte was absent on October 22 as he was feeling unwell, according to his legal counsel. 

Among  allegations against Duterte include implementing  “Davao Model” nationwide reward system for killing drug suspects  and directing police officers to carry out killings of alleged drug lords on his orders.

30 Octubre,2024 Miyerkules

supports 35th National Statistics Month October, Advancing data and statistics through digital transformation,a  road to empowered nation

supports World Food Day October 16, 2024

No to Divorce!!!

Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez

No to SOGIE bill

PM for any hospital discharge problem

Happy Birthday Loida Tajan-Ocampo, more birthdays to come

Happy Birthday Rosita Belmonte-Jose more birthdays to come

Happy Birthday Jo Ephraim Lopez more birthdays to come

Leon-threatened areas forced to evacuate

By J.Lo

“Local chief executives are urged to execute forced evacuations as necessary, in accordance with Republic Act 10121 and  Local Government Code, ensuring  residents in high-risk areas promptly relocate to designated evacuation centers or safe areas,” Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said residents living in areas identified as high risk will be under forced and mandatory evacuation as Severe Tropical Storm Leon continues to gain strength.

In response to  directive, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) issued  memorandum  directed all local government units (LGUs) to comply.

Upon Teodoro’s directive, DILG has issued  memorandum to all local government units and DILG regional directors of Regions I, II, V and CAR, and  chiefs of  Philippine National Police and Bureau of Fire Protection, to implement forced evacuation protocols in anticipation of potential heavy rainfall.

Highest  wind signal could be hoisted over  next few days as Leon could reach super typhoon category as it makes  close approach over Batanes according to state weather forecasters.

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said  hoisting of tropical cyclone wind signal No. 5 has not been ruled out as Leon could make landfall over Batanes. Signal No. 5 will make Leon as powerful as Super Typhoon Yolanda.

Leon,  intensified into  typhoon yesterday at around 11 in the morning was monitored 505 kilometers east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan as of 4 in the afternoon carrying maximum sustained winds of 150 km per hour near center and gustiness of up to 185 kph.

Signal no. 2 has been raised over Batanes, Babuyan Islands, mainland Cagayan,  northern and eastern portions of Isabela, Apayao,  northern portion of Kalinga and Ilocos Norte.

Signal No. 1 was hoisted over  rest of Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, rest of Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet,  rest of Abra, Ilocos Sur, La Union,  eastern portion of Nueva Ecija, including Polillo Islands, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay and  northern portion of Sorsogon.

Leon was forecast to continue rapidly intensifying over  Philippine Sea and could be at super typhoon category during its closest approach to Batanes.

It was moving northwestward and will make landfall along eastern coast of Taiwan tomorrow afternoon or evening and turn northward toward  East China Sea. It will exit  Philippine area of responsibility on Thursday evening or Friday early morning.

Stormy conditions are already being felt over Batanes, Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Apayao, Kalinga, Abra and Isabela due to Leon.

Typhoon is also bringing rains with gusty winds over  rest of Cagayan Valley,  rest of Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes and Sorsogon.

Metro Manila,  Visayas and  rest of Luzon will see scattered rains due to  trough of Leon.  Mindanao may see cloudy skies with isolated rains due to localized thunderstorms.

Total of 125 people were reported dead due to Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said.

Number  of casualties reported are subject to validation.

In its situation report NDRRMC said 14 deaths have already been validated. It said 115 individuals were reported injured and 28 more were reported missing.

Weather  disturbance affected 1.79 million families or 7.13 million people in 10,181 barangays nationwide.

Most of the people affected were reported in Bicol with 2,746,214, followed by Central Luzon with 1,056,460 and Calabarzon with 701,985.

NDRRMC said over 935,000 people have been displaced while damage to agriculture worth P2.8 billion and to infrastructure worth P1.5 billion were reported.

There were 224 people stranded in two regions because of Leon as of noon, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported.

Data released by  PCG showed  out of  224 stranded passengers, truck drivers and cargo helpers, 172 were in six ports in Bicol while 52 were in five ports in southern Tagalog.

PCG added  there were also 59 rolling cargoes and 11 vessels stranded in these areas, while 13 ships and three motorized boats took shelter as  precaution against possible strong winds and rough seas.

Meanwhile, Coast Guard announced that its BRP Suluan carrying relief goods for  victims of Kristine has arrived in Pasacao Port, Camarines Sur.

Vessel  carried several food packs, sacks of rice, bread and bottled water that were donated by the offices of Sen. Raffy Tulfo, ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo,  PCG Auxiliary 126th Squadron, Puregold and Maynilad.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.directed  Energy Regulatory Commission to look into  possible moratorium on electricity line disconnections and payment collections in areas under  state of calamity because of  impact of Kristine.

Presidential Communications Office said  suspension would cover  October to December period and would include flexible payment options.

United States government is providing P84 million ($1.5 million) in humanitarian aid and logistics to support  country’s response to Kristine.

US embassy in Manila said Tuesday  funding will augment  US Agency for International Development (USAID)’s ongoing efforts to deliver lifesaving assistance.

Through  funding, USAID will provide access to essential services such as clean water, sanitation, emergency shelter and cash assistance. USAID will also provide logistical support in  management of evacuation centers. 

30 Octubre,2024 Miyerkules

supports 35th National Statistics Month October, Advancing data and statistics through digital transformation,a  road to empowered nation

supports World Food Day October 16, 2024

No to Divorce!!!

Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez

No to SOGIE bill

PM for any hospital discharge problem

Happy Birthday Loida Tajan-Ocampo, more birthdays to come

Happy Birthday Rosita Belmonte-Jose more birthdays to come

Happy Birthday Jo Ephraim Lopez more birthdays to come

Folks in flooded areas can light candles at home- CBCP

By J.Lo

“They can also light candles, bring in flowers and prepare  simple altar as gestures of remembrance,” Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP)Public Affairs Committee executive secretary Jerome Secillano said Filipino Catholics residing in flooded areas can observe All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days by praying and lighting candles at home.

Archdiocese of Manila Liturgical Commission prepared  “family prayer for  faithful departed,”  can be recited at home or when visiting cemetery.

“Let us gather as  family in praying for  souls of our beloved dead,”  Manila Cathedral posted on Facebook.

Meanwhile, Lakbay Alalay program has been reactivated by  Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to manage  anticipated surge of motorists during Undas.

Composite teams have been deployed, while cleanup and repair of roads and bridges destroyed by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine continue.

DPWH Lakbay Alalay teams are comprised of uniformed personnel who will work around the clock at identified stations.

Routine maintenance of national roads, primarily  routes leading to cemeteries and churches, is being conducted by DPWH Regional and District Engineering Offices.

“We are expecting  influx of motorists for Undas 2024…we are mobilizing our Lakbay Alalay Motorists Assistance Stations to provide prompt and reliable assistance to  traveling public,” said DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan.

Safe Trip Mo, Sagot Ko motorists assistance program has been reactivated by  Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC).

Emergency and medical incident response teams will be deployed within  MPTC Group’s expressways: North Luzon Expressway, Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, Cavite-Laguna Expressway, Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway, Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway and NLEX Connector Road.

Free towing services will be offered for Class 1 vehicles up to  nearest exit, from 6 in the morning on Oct. 31 to 6 in the morning on Nov. 4.

Roadworks and lane closures have also been suspended from Oct. 30 to Nov. 4, except for emergency safety repairs.

Motorists are advised to plan their trips and use  MPT DriveHub app for traffic updates, RFID management and roadside assistance.

Since high traffic volume is anticipated in major expressways like NLEX,  public is advised of heavy northbound traffic on Oct. 31 from 6 in the morning to 10 in the evening and Nov. 1 from 5 in the morning to 2 in the afternoon.

For Manila-bound travelers, high traffic volume is expected on Nov. 2 from 3 in the afternoon  to 10 in the evening., and from Nov. 3, 2 in the afternoon. to Nov. 4, 8 in the morning.