Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
FMJ, Jpn PM tackle US tariffs, China sea aggression
By Nidz Godinoa
“On status of global economy, we discussed tariff measures taken by United States as well as impact felt on multilateral free trade regime and world economy because of reciprocal retaliations seen with United States and China,” Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru said.there are “better solutions” to dire impacts of reciprocal tariffs imposed by United States, as he vowed to listen more to other countries for insights.
At meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Ishiba said Japan and Philippines agreed to start talks on security deals that would allow them to provide vital supplies and services and exchange intelligence information as they affirmed importance of rules-based order in the face of China’s aggressive acts in the region.
“Many Japanese companies have been playing role in local economy here in the Philippines… I conveyed to President Marcos that I will listen carefully to voices so that they will be able to bring forth better solutions,” he added.
Ishiba said Japan would also cooperate with Philippines so that it could use “Japanese strengths” to achieve its goal of attaining upper-middle income status.
“I explained that we will work with Philippines in package of cooperations covering telecommunications, AZEC ,Asia zero emission community, energy, mineral resources, infrastructure and disaster risk reduction and others…the President and I agreed to further strengthen our partnership in these areas,” he added.
Ishiba also invited Marcos to attend Osaka Expo 2025, started last April 13 and will run until Oct. 13.
Negotiations on potential Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) and security of information deal were among topics discussed during their meeting.
Meeting was one of the highlights of Ishiba’s two-day official visit that seeks to further strengthen strategic partnership between Manila and Tokyo.
“Japan has been of great assistance in helping us achieve our aspiration for peace and friendship with all nations with strength and with integrity… further, we have agreed to start negotiations on Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement,” Marcos said after his bilateral meeting with the Japanese leader.
Ishiba was deeply moved that Japan and Philippines are “now partners closing in on alliance,” noting that the two countries’ bilateral security cooperation has deepened in multilayered way.
“We agreed to start negotiation through ACSA or acquisition and cross servicing agreement…we also confirmed to start government-to-government discussion on potential conclusion of security of information agreement in the future, I’d like to further strengthen communication as well as cooperation with President Marcos,” he said.
ACSA provides framework for reciprocal provision of supplies and services between two militaries.
Marcos and Ishiba announced plans to commence negotiations on ACSA nearly a year after Manila and Tokyo signed Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) established procedures for cooperative activities between their armed forces. RAA was designed to facilitate implementation of cooperative activities, such as joint exercises and disaster relief, and improve interoperability between Philippine and Japanese forces.
While they did not mention China, the two leaders emphasized need for rules-based order in the region, continues to be gripped by tensions spawned by longstanding disputes over areas in East and South China seas.
“I look forward to continuing our strengthened strategic partnership with Japan, country that shares our ideals and aspirations of upholding democratic institutions and rules-based international order,” Marcos said.
“I hope that our two nations can continuously communicate with each other to oppose attempts to change status quo in East and South China Seas by force or coercion and to realize free and open Indo-Pacific based on rule of law,” Ishiba said.
China claims practically entire South China Sea while Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei and Taiwan have overlapping claims. Hague-based arbitral tribunal voided China’s expansive claim in 2016 but Chinese government refused to recognize ruling.
Like Philippines, Japan is also embroiled in dispute with China as both countries claim ownership of Senkaku Islands in East China Sea.
Meanwhile, first of five new 97-meter patrol ships purchased from Japan are expected to arrive in late 2027, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.
Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, commandant of PCG, provided update on purchase contract during visit of Admiral Seguchi Yoshio of Japanese Coast Guard (JCG) to PCG headquarters.
Soon-to-be-delivered vessel would be similar to BRP Teresa Magbanua, he said. “We would be buying five more ships from Japan, same class as BRP Teresa Magbanua. This is one of the flagship projects of President Marcos,” Gavan said.
Gavan recalled when PCG was separated from Philippine Navy in 1998, Japan was first country to help in development of PCG, particularly in the aspect of human resources. Up to now, JCG has been organizing trainings for PCG officials and personnel.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan🎉
Mt. Bulusan erupts, vicinity Alert Level 1
By J.Lo
“Phreatic eruption occurred from summit crater of Bulusan Volcano at 04:36 in the morning today, 28 April 2025, and lasted 24 minutes based on seismic and infrasound records… event produced bent plume that rose 4,500 meters above crater before drifting west to southwest,” Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said in advisory. Mt. Bulusan in Sorsogon experienced phreatic eruption early Monday morning, April 28, prompting state volcanologists to raise Alert Level 1 over the volcano.
Phivolcs explained Alert Level 1 indicated low-level unrest with chances of more phreatic eruptions.
Ashfall was seen in localities of Irosin, Juban, and Magallanes in Sorsogon.
Pyroclastic density current (PDCs), or hot flow of volcanic materials, was seen travelling three kilometers from summit.
Phivolcs recorded 53 volcanic earthquakes on April 27.
Local officials have been instructed to enforce 4-kilometer permanent danger zone, along with additional 2-kilometer extended danger zone.
State volcanologists have also warned of potential PDCs, projectiles, rockfall and avalanches.
Phivolcs advised civil aviation authorities instruct pilots to avoid area around volcano’s summit due to potential for phreatic eruption.
“Furthermore, people living within valleys and along river/stream channels especially on southeast, southwest and northwest sector of edifice should be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows and lahars in event of heavy and prolonged rainfall should phreatic eruption occur,” Phivolcs said.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
Philippine govt. refutes China claim of Sandy Cay ‘seizure’
By Nidz Godinoa
“No illegal seizure happened,” National Security Council (NSC) assistant director general Jonathan Malaya said at press briefing, while admonishing Beijing and its coast guard “to act with restraint and not increase tensions in West Philippine Sea, “no truth whatsoever” to China Coast Guard (CCG)’s declaration that it has seized Pag-asa (Sandy) Cay.
He also slammed Chinese state media for what he described as irresponsible announcements and statements on alleged seizure.
“The facts on the ground do not support this statement coming from Chinese Coast Guard,” Malaya said.
He said authorities had to call press conference to clarify matters and state for the record that Philippine sovereignty over Pag-asa Cays 1, 2 and 3 remains.
“This is alarming news to public…so we’re here to debunk that and to assure public that we have not lost Pag-asa Cays,” he said.
Malaya emphasized that Philippines exercises sovereignty over Sandy Cay. “Therefore, any affront to sovereignty of the Philippines in Pag-asa Cays is similar to affront to sovereignty of all other places in the mainland of Philippine archipelago,” he pointed out.
Malacañang also assured Filipinos that the administration would continue to lead in asserting Philippines’ rights in West Philippine Sea.
“There is no doubt about dedication of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to fight for our rights in our territory, our maritime rights especially in West Philippine Sea, protection of the rights of our country in accordance with international law will continue, but there is assurance that it is for peace and stability,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at press briefing.
Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard and the PNP Maritime Group conducted joint operation to check on CCG’s claim and discovered that no occupation of Pag-asa Cays on Sunday took place. Cays are within territorial waters of Pag-asa Island.
“Therefore, Philippines exercises not just sovereign rights, not just jurisdiction, we exercise sovereignty over three cays,” Malaya pointed out.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Navy spokesman for West Philippine Sea, said China’s claim was aimed at diverting public attention. He said picture showing Chinese on Pag-asa Cay was undated.
“In the information domain, this incident is latest of their trying to shape narrative to draw picture away from what is happening in Balikatan, what is happening in maritime domain with drones, what is happening across political landscape,” Trinidad said.
He also reminded China of its commitment to 2002 Declaration of Conduct, halting seizure of unoccupied features.
According to Trinidad, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been strongly monitoring country’s maritime domain.
“Any action that will go beyond current status quo will be, as we already declared, red line, especially when it comes to reclamation and building activities, Sandy Cay is only approximately three kilometers from Pag-asa… within monitoring distance by our forces stationed on the island and as mentioned by NTF and Philippine Coast Guard, there were no presence whatsoever monitored when we sent inter-agency team to Sandy Cay,” Trinidad said.
Retired Rear Adm. Rommel Jude Ong confirmed that previous Duterte administration stopped plan of military to have physical presence on Sandy Cay 2, or hut-like structure for soldiers.
“We already planned that. It was already ready to set up…last minute, it was stopped,it was not privy to reasons,” he said when asked why it was stopped.
It was around 2017 when plan was conceptualized, Ong said, citing China’s increased interest in the area.
Had it pushed through, he said structure would have been manned 24/7, citing its proximity to Pag-asa Island.
But he also admitted that putting up such structure may violate 2002 Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, prohibits occupation of new features.
“It may be considered as escalatory, not just by China, but all other parties involved because we will put up something, we installed something on new feature,” he added.
According to Ong, recent reports of China’s occupation in the cay may have been triggered by recent activities of Philippines in the area.
“Their picture taking at Sandy Cay is obviously propaganda action just to show that they own Sandy Cay,” he added.
Senators denounced CCG for falsely claiming it had seized Pag-asa Cay. “China should stop creating drama. Photoshoot gimmick and supposed planting of Chinese flag on Sandy Cay is just another spectacle orchestrated by Beijing,” Sen. Risa Hontiveros said.
“No self-respecting state would take it to mean that China now has sovereign rights over it,” Hontiveros said.
She urged Department of Foreign Affairs to file diplomatic protest against Beijing for its coast guard’s action.
“Our government should take appropriate action to safeguard our claim…Sandy Cay belongs to Philippines and no amount of island hopping of Chinese Coast Guard will muddle the truth,” Hontiveros said.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada said China’s claims to Pag-asa Cay “pose significant threat to our national sovereignty and security,” calling it “yet another attempt to distort reality of the situation and spread fake news.”
Senate majority leader Francis Tolentino said “ illegal seizure of Sandy Cay by China Coast Guard is outrageous assault on Philippine sovereignty.”
“Sandy Cay lies within our territorial waters indisputably ours under international law… this brazen intrusion must be met by strongest diplomatic and defensive measures… we must not allow foreign forces to trample upon our rights and dignity,” Tolentino added.
Speaker Martin Romualdez said China appears to be “desperate” and called action of CCG “cheap stunt.”
“Deployment of Chinese personnel to Sandy Cay, their unfurling of Chinese flag and their so-called ‘inspection’ activities are nothing more than desperate and cheap stunts, orchestrated spectacle meant to mislead and bolster their illegitimate claims,” Romualdez said.
He reminded Chinese that “Sandy Cay lies just four nautical miles from Pag-asa Island and has always been under Philippine jurisdiction.”
“We have continuously and effectively exercised jurisdiction over it… 2016 Arbitral Award has already invalidated China’s sweeping and baseless claims across South China Sea, including Sandy Cay,” the Speaker stressed.
In a statement, he also said “no fabricated display can undermine Philippines’ legitimate sovereignty over its territory and exclusive economic zone.”
“I strongly denounce latest actions of China Coast Guard in and around Sandy Cay, area well within Philippines’ EEZ and unquestionably part of Philippine sovereignty…Filipino people will not be bullied in our own backyard… Team Pilipinas tayo!” Romualdez said.
For his part, Rep. Jay Khonghun said CCG’s action was “brazen affront” to Philippine sovereignty and international law.
“This latest move by China is clear and deliberate violation of our sovereign rights, Sandy Cay belongs to the Philippines..no amount of aggressive posturing or illegal occupation can erase that fact,we must call spade a spade… China’s actions are illegal, provocative and undermine regional peace and stability,” Khonghun, first district congressman of Zambales, expressed.
“We strongly denounce China’s unlawful ‘landing’ on Sandy Cay in West Philippine Sea… Sandy Cay is part of our territory because it lies only about two nautical miles from Pag-asa Island,” Akbayan party-list first nominee Chel Diokno said. Akbayan president Rafaela David called CCG’s action “desperate Instagram moment.”
“Sorry, China, we are not impressed…no number of photo ops will change the truth: they are trespassers, and we are rightful owners of Sandy Cay and West Philippine Sea,” David said.
“No illegal seizure happened,” National Security Council (NSC) assistant director general Jonathan Malaya said at press briefing, while admonishing Beijing and its coast guard “to act with restraint and not increase tensions in West Philippine Sea, “no truth whatsoever” to China Coast Guard (CCG)’s declaration that it has seized Pag-asa (Sandy) Cay.
He also slammed Chinese state media for what he described as irresponsible announcements and statements on alleged seizure.
“The facts on the ground do not support this statement coming from Chinese Coast Guard,” Malaya said.
He said authorities had to call press conference to clarify matters and state for the record that Philippine sovereignty over Pag-asa Cays 1, 2 and 3 remains.
“This is alarming news to public…so we’re here to debunk that and to assure public that we have not lost Pag-asa Cays,” he said.
Malaya emphasized that Philippines exercises sovereignty over Sandy Cay. “Therefore, any affront to sovereignty of the Philippines in Pag-asa Cays is similar to affront to sovereignty of all other places in the mainland of Philippine archipelago,” he pointed out.
Malacañang also assured Filipinos that the administration would continue to lead in asserting Philippines’ rights in West Philippine Sea.
“There is no doubt about dedication of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to fight for our rights in our territory, our maritime rights especially in West Philippine Sea, protection of the rights of our country in accordance with international law will continue, but there is assurance that it is for peace and stability,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at press briefing.
Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard and the PNP Maritime Group conducted joint operation to check on CCG’s claim and discovered that no occupation of Pag-asa Cays on Sunday took place. Cays are within territorial waters of Pag-asa Island.
“Therefore, Philippines exercises not just sovereign rights, not just jurisdiction, we exercise sovereignty over three cays,” Malaya pointed out.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Navy spokesman for West Philippine Sea, said China’s claim was aimed at diverting public attention. He said picture showing Chinese on Pag-asa Cay was undated.
“In the information domain, this incident is latest of their trying to shape narrative to draw picture away from what is happening in Balikatan, what is happening in maritime domain with drones, what is happening across political landscape,” Trinidad said.
He also reminded China of its commitment to 2002 Declaration of Conduct, halting seizure of unoccupied features.
According to Trinidad, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been strongly monitoring country’s maritime domain.
“Any action that will go beyond current status quo will be, as we already declared, red line, especially when it comes to reclamation and building activities, Sandy Cay is only approximately three kilometers from Pag-asa… within monitoring distance by our forces stationed on the island and as mentioned by NTF and Philippine Coast Guard, there were no presence whatsoever monitored when we sent inter-agency team to Sandy Cay,” Trinidad said.
Retired Rear Adm. Rommel Jude Ong confirmed that previous Duterte administration stopped plan of military to have physical presence on Sandy Cay 2, or hut-like structure for soldiers.
“We already planned that. It was already ready to set up…last minute, it was stopped,it was not privy to reasons,” he said when asked why it was stopped.
It was around 2017 when plan was conceptualized, Ong said, citing China’s increased interest in the area.
Had it pushed through, he said structure would have been manned 24/7, citing its proximity to Pag-asa Island.
But he also admitted that putting up such structure may violate 2002 Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, prohibits occupation of new features.
“It may be considered as escalatory, not just by China, but all other parties involved because we will put up something, we installed something on new feature,” he added.
According to Ong, recent reports of China’s occupation in the cay may have been triggered by recent activities of Philippines in the area.
“Their picture taking at Sandy Cay is obviously propaganda action just to show that they own Sandy Cay,” he added.
Senators denounced CCG for falsely claiming it had seized Pag-asa Cay. “China should stop creating drama. Photoshoot gimmick and supposed planting of Chinese flag on Sandy Cay is just another spectacle orchestrated by Beijing,” Sen. Risa Hontiveros said.
“No self-respecting state would take it to mean that China now has sovereign rights over it,” Hontiveros said.
She urged Department of Foreign Affairs to file diplomatic protest against Beijing for its coast guard’s action.
“Our government should take appropriate action to safeguard our claim…Sandy Cay belongs to Philippines and no amount of island hopping of Chinese Coast Guard will muddle the truth,” Hontiveros said.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada said China’s claims to Pag-asa Cay “pose significant threat to our national sovereignty and security,” calling it “yet another attempt to distort reality of the situation and spread fake news.”
Senate majority leader Francis Tolentino said “ illegal seizure of Sandy Cay by China Coast Guard is outrageous assault on Philippine sovereignty.”
“Sandy Cay lies within our territorial waters indisputably ours under international law… this brazen intrusion must be met by strongest diplomatic and defensive measures… we must not allow foreign forces to trample upon our rights and dignity,” Tolentino added.
Speaker Martin Romualdez said China appears to be “desperate” and called action of CCG “cheap stunt.”
“Deployment of Chinese personnel to Sandy Cay, their unfurling of Chinese flag and their so-called ‘inspection’ activities are nothing more than desperate and cheap stunts, orchestrated spectacle meant to mislead and bolster their illegitimate claims,” Romualdez said.
He reminded Chinese that “Sandy Cay lies just four nautical miles from Pag-asa Island and has always been under Philippine jurisdiction.”
“We have continuously and effectively exercised jurisdiction over it… 2016 Arbitral Award has already invalidated China’s sweeping and baseless claims across South China Sea, including Sandy Cay,” the Speaker stressed.
In a statement, he also said “no fabricated display can undermine Philippines’ legitimate sovereignty over its territory and exclusive economic zone.”
“I strongly denounce latest actions of China Coast Guard in and around Sandy Cay, area well within Philippines’ EEZ and unquestionably part of Philippine sovereignty…Filipino people will not be bullied in our own backyard… Team Pilipinas tayo!” Romualdez said.
For his part, Rep. Jay Khonghun said CCG’s action was “brazen affront” to Philippine sovereignty and international law.
“This latest move by China is clear and deliberate violation of our sovereign rights, Sandy Cay belongs to the Philippines..no amount of aggressive posturing or illegal occupation can erase that fact,we must call spade a spade… China’s actions are illegal, provocative and undermine regional peace and stability,” Khonghun, first district congressman of Zambales, expressed.
“We strongly denounce China’s unlawful ‘landing’ on Sandy Cay in West Philippine Sea… Sandy Cay is part of our territory because it lies only about two nautical miles from Pag-asa Island,” Akbayan party-list first nominee Chel Diokno said. Akbayan president Rafaela David called CCG’s action “desperate Instagram moment.”
“Sorry, China, we are not impressed…no number of photo ops will change the truth: they are trespassers, and we are rightful owners of Sandy Cay and West Philippine Sea,” David said.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
“To our local absentee voters, we need you to come election day…thus, it’s important for you to cast your votes now until April 30,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said government employees and other qualified individuals who will be performing election-related duties can already cast their votes starting today.
Garcia said the poll body is set to conduct Local Absentee Voting (LAV) until April 30.
Local absentee voters may cast their votes from 8 in the morning to 5 in the afternoon.
Garcia urged over 57,000 police officers, soldiers, government personnel and members of media to cast their votes.LAV, Garcia said, its Comelec’s way of recognizing gallant performance of those government and media personnel on election day.
“You’re all heroes to us, so we want to give you this special treatment,” Garcia said.
Comelec previously approved total of 57,689 LAV voters.Number includes 29,030 Armed Forces personnel, 23,448 national police, 4,206 government employees and 1,005 members of media.
Those participating in LAV will vote for 12 senators and one party-list organization using automated counting machines (ACMs).
Government officials and employees, including policemen and military, shall vote in venues pre-determined by heads of offices/supervisors/commanders, while members of the media will vote at Comelec offices where they filed their applications for LAV.
In the 2022 elections, LAV had 88 percent voter turnout out of over 84,000 qualified local absentee voters.
5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in very nature[a] God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature[b] of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan🎉
FMJ vetoes bill amending BCDA charter
By Nidz Godino
“Although President Marcos recognized Congress’ noble intention in crafting the bill, he said he could not ignore concerns raised by national agencies,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO)said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has vetoed bill seeking to amend charter of Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), citing possible conflict with existing laws and “adverse” impact on government’s fiscal position.
Marcos noted several issues with enrolled bill, including proposed increase of P100 billion in authorized capital, he said could affect government’s fiscal integrity, PCO said in statement, quoting the President’s veto message dated April 24 that was transmitted to Congress.
Marcos said proposal to use proceeds from sale of allocated lands from ecozones to accrue mainly to BCDA is inconsistent with government’s one-fund policy, limiting its fiscal flexibility in deciding fund utilization for more pressing concerns.
In addition, bill antithetically grants BCDA authority to determine alienable and disposable lands, clearly falls under mandate of Department of Environment and Natural Resources, he said.
Marcos added bill’s language granting land ownership and authority to BCDA in disposing of lands contradicts Republic v. Heirs of Bernabe, provides state is beneficial owner of lands transferred to BCDA by virtue of Republic Act 7227.
Created in 1992, BCDA is government-owned and -controlled corporation, mandated to transform former US military bases into alternative productive civilian use.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
FMJ joins world leaders, multitude of mourners at pope’s funeral
By Nidz Godino
“When I met him, he was humble and kind, and you feel like you’re blessed by God,” First Lady Liza Marcos was teary eyed when she reminisced about the kindness of the late Pope Francis. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. joined around 170 world leaders and 250,000 mourners at funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City.
Marcos, accompanied by the First Lady arrived in Rome Friday morning (Vatican time).
Photos released by the Presidential Communications Office showed the President in dark gray suit and the First Lady in black dress arriving at St. Peter’s Square for the late pontiff’s funeral. They were both wearing pin of Philippine flag on their left chest.
PCO and Philippine Ambassador to Italy Neal Imperial shared photos of Marcos’ separate interactions with US President Donald Trump and former US president Joe Biden at St. Peter’s Square. Video posted on social media showed Marcoses conversing with Biden and wife Jill before funeral mass started at 4 in the afternoon. (Philippine time).
The President’s trip to Vatican is until April 28 based on Special Order 424 he issued on Thursday.
Marcos earlier declared period of national mourning over passing of Francis, he said “holds special place in the hearts of Filipino people.”
Francis visited Philippines in January 2015, during which he offered comfort and solidarity to victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda.
According to Marcos’ Proclamation 871, Filipino people recognize late pope “as global leader of compassion and tireless advocate of peace, justice and human dignity.”
Philippines is predominantly Roman Catholic.
On Friday, the First Couple were spotted at Piazza Navona, where they were having coffee and appeared to be reminiscing the time they were dating there,. The First Couple tied knot at San Francesco Convent in Fiesole, Italy on April 17, 1993.
In Tacloban City, more than 6,000 fanatics including Speaker Martin Romualdez – attended mass at the new Daniel Z. Romualdez (DZR) airport’s tarmac in honor of the late pope and to mark 10th anniversary of his visit to Tacloban City after devastation of Super Typhoon Yolanda.
DZR airport tarmac was the exact location of the mass Francis himself officiated on Jan. 17, 2015, more than a year after Yolanda ravaged Tacloban in November 2013. Msgr. Ramon Stephen Aguilos was the main celebrant at yesterday’s mass.
“Pope Francis gave us more than hope,” Romualdez said after the mass. “He showed world how to lead with compassion…he stood with us not just as pope, but as father to suffering…his presence gave us strength to rise.”
“He gave us courage to begin again…when we felt forgotten, he remembered…when we were broken, he came to bless brokenness…something people never forget,” he said.
Romualdez recalled powerful image of Francis celebrating mass under stormy skies in yellow raincoat.
“That yellow raincoat became our banner of faith…we saw in him not distant leader, but loving father: present, soaked in our sorrow and filled with love, ” Romualdez said.
In Quezon City, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino recalled being given privilege of providing security to the pope, as chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
“I had the privilege of escorting him during his visit to Tacloban… I was also one of those who provided his close-in security, in coordination with Presidential Security Group then, ” Tolentino said at press briefing.
The MMDA motorcycle escorts were at the pope’s side throughout his stay in the stormy Tacloban.
“Pope Francis called them in… MMDA motorcycle riders all kneeled before him, and then he approached and blessed them, one by one…it was warm and heart-touching scene,” Tolentino said.
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“Respect judicial process, respect judges, respect former president Duterte’s right to fair trial,” lawyer Nicholas Kaufman said in exchange with Duterte’s supporters has reiterated his call to all Filipinos to respect judges and judicial process at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Kaufman made remark after social media pages of ICC and even some of the judges received barrage of comments, mainly negative, from what appeared to be accounts of Duterte supporters.
Even victims and their lawyers have faced harassment and were subjected to false claims and disinformation.
Asked about condition of former president Rodrigo Duterte, currently at ICC Detention Facility, Kaufman said Duterte is “in good spirits.”
“He asks for calm and restraint,” Kaufman said when asked if the former president has message ahead of midterm elections.
“He knows that there are elections in offing. He knows that people are very interested in his welfare, and he also knows that there is tendency, perhaps, for people to get excited and not to respect judicial process…he insists judicial process be respected, that there be no interference in that at all,” he added.
Reiterating his previous statements, Kaufman confirmed that there will be request for interim release “in due course.”
“But as I’ve said many times before, certain conditions have to be right for interim release to take place… judges who will ultimately decide it,” he added.
British-Israeli lawyer said he is hopeful that Duterte will be able to return to Philippines even before his scheduled confirmation of charges hearing in September.
“I can’t understand why he is here…he’s Filipino citizen … why isn’t he in the Philippines..why isn’t he being tried in the Philippines…why is there not Filipino judge who is trying him?” Kaufman said.
Duterte is facing charges of crimes against humanity over killings related to his deadly campaign against illegal drugs.
Marcos administration surrendered the former president to international tribunal following release of arrest warrant last month.
Under Republic Act 9851 or Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and Other Crimes Against Humanity, Philippine authorities are allowed to “dispense with investigation or prosecution of crime … if another court or international tribunal is already conducting investigation or undertaking the prosecution of such crime.”
Duterte’s camp is expected to challenge ICC’s jurisdiction over the case, with his arrest and surrender likely to be brought up ahead of confirmation of charges hearing.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
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supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
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congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
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DICT accelerates, expands access to digital loans
By J.Lo
“In line with the President’s vision for digital transformation, DICT is building national strategy to remove barriers to credit empowering MSMEs with faster, safer and more accessible digital loan platforms,” Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.has ordered DICT to accelerate and expand access to digital loans for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide.
During meeting with officials from Digital Bank Association of the Philippines, Aguda underscored what he said is transformative power of digital loans, emphasizing their vital role not only in driving economic growth but also improving lives of Filipinos working to secure better future for their families.
Citing data from Philippine Statistics Authority, Aguda said MSMEs accounted for 99.63 percent of 1.24 business establishments in 2023.
Despite being backbone of economy, department chief said many still struggle to access formal credit systems due to lack of documents, limited credit history or geographic barriers.
Aguda said among first steps they will undertake in 2025 is establishment of public access for digital loans.
Also included are integration of identity verification through PhilSys and eGovPH App and government-back microloan programs tailor for MSMEs.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
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supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
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Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
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congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
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Pd of national mourning in the Ph declared for Pope Francis
By Nidz Godino
“Pope Francis holds special place in the hearts of Filipino people, particularly for his apostolic visit to the Philippines in January 2015, where he offered comfort and solidarity to victims of Typhoon Yolanda and celebrated resilience of the Filipino faanatics despite adversities,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.has issued proclamation declaring period of national mourning over passing of Pope Francis.
Proclamation 871, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, declared period of national mourning effective immediately until the late pope’s burial on Saturday.
During period of mourning, national flag shall be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset in all government buildings and installations throughout Philippines and abroad.
According to Marcos, pope’s passing is moment of profound sorrow for Catholic Church and for Filipino people, who recognize him as global leader of compassion and tireless advocate of peace, justice and human dignity.
Large majority of Filipinos are Catholics.
Francis served as 266th pope of Roman Catholic Church from March 13, 2013 until his passing on Easter Monday, April 21. He was 88.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Francis was first Jesuit, first Latin American and first non-European pontiff in over 1, 200 years.
Meanwhile, Malacañang confirmed President Marcos and First Lady Liza Marcos would attend funeral of Pope Francis, with travel details yet to be provided by Palace.
Other world leaders expected to attend pope’s funeral are US President Donald Trump, Argentinian President Javier Milei, French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Francis’ funeral mass will take place on Saturday, April 26, at 10 in the morning (Vatican time) in St. Peter’s Square, to be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of College of Cardinals.
“Pope Francis is one of a kind…that’s really sad… I love this pope…best pope in my lifetime as far as I’m concerned,” the President previously said.
Francis is “man of profound faith and humility” and “led not only with wisdom but with heart open to all, especially the poor and forgotten,” Marcos said.
“By example, Pope Francis taught us to be good Christian is to extend kindness and care to one another…his humility brought many back to the fold of the Church,” he noted.
Kalookan’s Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David is scheduled to leave for Vatican today to attend funeral of pope.
David said there would be pre-conclave meeting after funeral.
“Probable, start of the actual conclave is 15-20 days after death, any day between May 5-10,” he said.
The Kalookan cardinal added possible that conclave would run for a week.
Aside from David, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula is also expected to attend the pontiff’s funeral, but the Archdiocese of Manila has not released his travel schedule.
David, Advincula and Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, are three Filipino cardinals who would be attending conclave.
Meanwhile, Philippine Postal Corp. is seriously considering issuing stamp in honor of the late pontiff.
PHLPost postmaster general Luis Carlos said they have already made initial discussion on issuing another Pope Francis stamp during their Stamp Committee meeting.
“I think it will be patronized….Post Office should put out one,” he said.
Committee would have to discuss design of Pope Francis stamp and have them printed, with likely release next month.
PHLPost could print 5,000 to 10,000 copies of Pope Francis stamp, Carlos said.
In 2014, PHLPost featured Pope Francis in stamp that was sold at P40 each. They produced 90,000 copies of stamp.
Even with new pope, Catholic Church’s attitude toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ)+ community will remain the same, no discrimination, official of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said.
CBCP Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs executive secretary Fr. Jerome Secillano said that while words used by Pope Francis that showed inclusivity of LGBTQ+ community may be “novel,” Church’s attitude toward them has been the same.
“When we speak of non-discrimination and accepting LGBT community, I think Church has always been open to accommodating them… never a moment Church condemned them,” Secillano said.
According to the Church official, Pope Francis may have just highlighted issue because of words “who am I to judge?”
Francis has been regarded by many as a champion of LGBTQ+ community because of his statements showing acceptance and compassion.
At one time, pontiff was reportedly asked what is the most important thing for LGBTQ+ people to know about God, to which he replied, “God is Father and He does not disown any of His children…and ‘style’ of God is ‘closeness and mercy and tenderness…’ along this path you will find God.”
“Even catechism of the Catholic Church, there was no word that would say that we condemned these people, that we discriminate against these people…again it was highlighted because it was the pope speaking,” Secillano said.
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