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 19.1k 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
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan
Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, visited Philippines
By Nidz Godino
Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Prevost, visited Cebu in 2004 as Prior General of Augustinians.
Archdiocese of Cebu said Pope also blessed Augustinian Friary in Mohon, Talisay City.
He also visited Intramuros in 2010, where he celebrated Mass at San Agustín Church during Order of Saint Augustine’s Intermediate General Chapter.
Prevost is 267th head of Roman Catholic Church and will lead world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
He is the first pope from Order of Saint Augustine commonly known as Augustinians and second pope from America, following Pope Francis, who died on April 21, 2025.
Pope Francis elevated him to cardinal in 2023.
Pope Leo XIV was elected on second day of conclave, with decision reached on fourth ballot. White smoke rose from Sistine Chapel chimney at 12:08 in the morning. (Manila time).
Three Filipino cardinals—Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Cardinal Jose Advincula and Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David—are among cardinal-electors in this year’s conclave.
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 19.1k 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
“If Congress intended violation of Safe Spaces Act ground to disqualify candidate, it could have included such provision in the said law, but it did not,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said Pasig congressional candidate Christian Sia has been disqualified from May 12 midterm polls due to his sexist remarks about single mothers and body shaming of his former female assistant.
Sia’s remarks constitute acts of gender-based harassment and violate Campaigning Act.
Garcia said ruling is historic since it is first time poll body applied anti-discrimination resolution.
At campaign sortie last month, Sia said single mothers, especially those who are still menstruating, could sleep with him once a year if he gets elected.
Sia is insisting that Comelec’s ruling is “wrong” since he did not get court conviction over his sexist joke.
The Pasig bet, a lawyer, has vowed to take the case to Supreme Court if his motion for reconsideration is rejected.
Sia is running under slate of construction magnate Sarah Discaya, competing against Mayor Vico Sotto.
Meanwhile, Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar has been cleared of vote buying allegations by Comelec.
Comelec has found insufficient evidence to support disqualification petition against Villar in May midterm polls.
Villar “satisfactorily explained” circumstances surrounding alleged vote buying incident at campaign sortie in Cavite on Feb. 9 before start of campaign period, the poll body’s Kontra Bigay committee said.
Villar welcomed Comelec’s resolution.
“I assure everyone that I am running on clean platform, pursuing only my advocacies that aim to make lives better for Filipinos,” she said.
Villar has reportedly spent more than P1 billion in advertisements for her campaign in midterm polls.
If she wins, Villar will join her brother Mark in Senate.
Their mother, Sen. Cynthia Villar, is seeking to replace Camille as representative of Las Piñas in House of Representatives.
About 10 more show-cause orders will be issued to bets facing vote buying claims, Comelec Commissioner Ernest Maceda said.
As of yesterday, around 450 reports of vote buying and abuse of state resources were received by Kontra Bigay committee.
Some 106 bets were given show cause orders, Maceda noted.
Most vote buying complaints came from Calabarzon, followed by Central Luzon and Metro Manila. Laguna, Marikina and Rizal were top three areas.
In another development, Comelec First Division disqualified for misrepresentation Christian Noveras, who is seeking Aurora governorship.
“It is undisputed that respondent has been found guilty by ombudsman of grave misconduct, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service and conduct unbecoming of public officials and was punished with dismissal from service with all accessory penalties, including perpetual disqualification from holding public office,” Comelec said.
Comelec also upheld disqualification of Noveras’ father and sister. Gerardo is running for vice governor, while Christine is his substitute.
“Having established Gerardo is ineligible to run, he had no right to pass on to Christine, his purported substitute… incongruous for person to take the place of candidate who does not exist or who was never eligible to run,” Comelec stressed.
Pilipinas Babangon Muli Party party-list group’s disqualification was affirmed by poll body, as it violated requirement in which regional party must have constituency. .. group fielded nominees not from Calabarzon , region it claimed to represent.
Tuguegarao Mayor Maila Ting-Que is facing disqualification complaint for alleged abuse of state resources.
Pangasinan Rep. Marlyn Primicias-Agabas has lauded Comelec for assuring public that vote buying complaints will be acted upon without delay.
In letters to Comelec and Philippine National Police, Agabas cited reports of vote buying operations allegedly involving allies of Gilbert Estrella, her rival candidate in the midterm polls.
Makati Mayor Abby Binay has confirmed she and Taguig Rep. Pammy Zamora are facing disqualification case for alleged conspiracy to bribe voters.
Binay said her remarks at April 10 sortie, where she said she would be showing voters “heaps of money,” were “taken out of context.”
“I said congresswoman has a lot of funds there…does that mean I’m engaging in vote buying …those funds would be placed into Ospital ng Makati and would not be given to attendees,” Binay said.
4 days to Midterm election ,campaign period, gun ban in effect
supports Ease of Doing Business Month May, themed “Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in Bagong Pilipinas.”
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
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan
Overtime pay, tax exemption for poll watchers
By Nidz Godino
“Teachers who will serve as poll workers on election day will be required to work for over 24 hours straight, yet Comelec refuses to acknowledge this as overtime work deserving of additional compensation,” ACT-NCR Union President Ruby Bernardo said. teachers’ union in Metro Manila urged Commission on Elections (Comelec) to grant overtime pay to teachers serving as Electoral Board members and poll watchers.
In a statement , Alliance of Concerned Teachers – National Capital Region (ACT-NCR) said Comelec “refuses to acknowledge” that teacher-poll watchers are entitled to overtime compensation for extended work hours on election day.
She stressed that teachers will have to wake up early and report for duty with little sleep to assist marginalized sectors such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities and pregnant women during early voting hours.
Early voting runs from 5 to 7 in the morning ahead of regular voting schedule from 7 in the morning to 7 in the evening. If Electoral Board members are required to cover both, their workday could stretch to 14 hours or more.
As members, they oversee polling precincts to safeguard integrity of vote, often facing threats and intimidation, especially in areas with intense political rivalry or security concerns.
“Hindi makatarungang hindi sila bayaran para sa karagdagang oras ng pagtatrabaho,” Bernardo said. She added that teachers already put their lives on line during elections, which can turn violent in some areas, yet they are still taxed for working on election day.
Here’s how much each board member will be paid, according to Comelec Resolution 11076:
Chairperson – P12,000
Members – 11,000
Support staff – 8,000
Department of Education supervising official – P11,000
Technical support staff – P9,000
Administrative support staff – P8,000
Bernardo likened the experience to “already having one foot in the grave,” saying it’s no small matter for teachers to work for 24 hours without sleep.
“Nakagagalit maliit na nga ang honorarium, binabawasan pa ng buwis…wala namang overtime pay, dagdag oras pa sa serbisyo!” she said.
ACT-NCR Union also said that many teachers fall ill after each election due to extreme fatigue and stress.
“Current honoraria are already insufficient given immense responsibility and risks teachers face during elections…deducting taxes from these meager amounts is adding insult to injury,” Bernardo added.
Teachers’ group also pointed out that respecting their rights and providing adequate compensation is bare minimum, as they serve as “backbone” of the country’s electoral process.
“Respecting their rights and providing just compensation is not just about teacher welfare , it’s about valuing our democratic processes,” Bernardo said.
Election day is scheduled on May 12, estimated 68 million Filipinos are expected to cast their votes for 12 senators, party-list representatives and local leaders.
4 days to Midterm election ,campaign period, gun ban in effect
supports Ease of Doing Business Month May , themed “Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in Bagong Pilipinas.”
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
Marbil sacks 2 cops moonlighting for Paolo Duterte
By J.Lo
“That’s perpetual disqualification from any government post… our warning to police force: make sure to take your job religiously,” Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Marbil. told reporters at Camp Crame two police officers allegedly moonlighting as security escorts for Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte have been ordered dismissed.
Authorities probed police Executive M/Sgt. Rexter Millano and S/Sgt. Leonard Pamat for acting as Duterte’s bodyguards without proper authority.
Millano and Pamat should be kicked out of PNP for dishonesty, Marbil said.
Davao City police chief Col. Hansel Marantan said Millano and Pamat were assigned with Marilog and Paquibato stations.
Their immediate commanders should also be sanctioned, Marbil stressed.
Eleven officers and personnel of Special Action Force (SAF) were dismissed in November last year for providing illegal security escort services to Chinese national in Muntinlupa City, he recalled.
Duterte is embroiled in controversy after altercation with businessman at Davao bar last Feb. 24, incident caught on closed-circuit television.
Apart from Millano and Pamat, two Philippine Air Force personnel were also part of Duterte’s security detail, based on footage.
Moonlighting is serious offense in PNP, Marbil maintained.
In defense of her brother, Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio has claimed viral video showing Paolo threatening man with knife is ultimately “political attack.”
“It’s good thing that this CCTV footage appeared before May 12 midterm elections so voters can properly decide who they will choose… but it’s really political attack,” she said.
The businessman has filed complaint against Paolo for allegedly physically assaulting him for hours inside bar.
“I don’t think President Marcos’ candidates in Davao City are involved in filing case… purely PNP and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG),” she said.
The Vice President claimed there is broader pattern of harassment targeting her family, she believes is being driven by national political interests.
“It’s clear administration has pattern of diverting attention away from their failures and attacking political opponents instead… one of the national government’s strategies to destroy our family,” she said.
Fearing alleged police raid, supporters of Duterte family are watching over former president Rodrigo Duterte’s residence at Doña Luisa Village 1 in Ecoland in Davao City.
Over 500 members of CIDG and 300 SAF personnel recently arrived in the city.
On March 11, Duterte was arrested and turned over to International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity stemming from his bloody war on drugs.
The Vice President said Marcos should be held accountable for her father’s arrest.
Duterte’s supporters are reportedly coming from different parts of the country to guard his residence from police officers.
Meanwhile, simultaneous rallies will be held nationwide today serving as miting de avance for candidates of Duterte-led Partido ng Demokratikong Pilipino-Laban ng Bayan.
Despite being detained in The Hague, Duterte is running for Davao City mayor in May 12 midterm elections.
Duterte’s confirmation of charges hearing before ICC is scheduled for Sept. 23.
5 days to Midterm 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
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan
Delays in P1.9 B e-gates procurement hit
By Nidz Godino
Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado has expressed frustration over the prolonged procurement process for 101 electronic gates (e-gates) for airports worth P1.9 billion.
BI Deputy Commissioner Daniel Laogan reportedly tendered his resignation as the bureau’s Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) chairman, citing “personal reasons.”
In a statement, Viado clarified that his presence at the BAC meeting on May 2 was not meant to coerce or influence the members, but to underscore the urgency of the matter.
He emphasized the need to fast-track the project, which aims to install e-gates at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and other major airports in time for the BI’s 85th anniversary this September.“I lead with discipline and urgency. I don’t tolerate complacency – when something needs to change, it must change now. I may be strict, but I get things done,” said Viado.
“When change is needed, it must not be delayed,” he added in Filipino.
Viado explained that since assuming office as commissioner in October, he has ordered a review of the bureau’s processes and technologies to support modernization, even hiring technical advisers for the task.
“Modernizing the systems of the BI has always been my drive. We are operating on an 85-year-old law and our technologies are almost outdated,” he said.E-gates program reportedly began in June 2024, prior to Viado’s appointment as BI chief.
“We have no time to dilly dally, the budget is in our appropriations for this year. If not finalized, it could be removed from our budget by the Department of Budget and Management,” he warned.
A technical working group was formed in February to conduct a market study on the procurement of additional electronic gates.
“The terms of reference (TOR) in procuring the e-gates were crafted to upgrade and expand the system by integrating automated biometric identification systems. This has already been approved and is set for posting,” he said.
However, during the latest BAC meeting – where approval was expected – one member allegedly proposed further revisions that would delay the process.
One such proposal involved the inclusion of iris scan capabilities in the TOR, which Viado criticized as unnecessary and extremely costly.
Countries like the US and Canada do not use iris scanning in immigration processing due to its high cost and unsuitability for long-term use, he said.
Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado has expressed frustration over the prolonged procurement process for 101 electronic gates (e-gates) for airports worth P1.9 billion.
BI Deputy Commissioner Daniel Laogan reportedly tendered his resignation as the bureau’s Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) chairman, citing “personal reasons.”
In a statement, Viado clarified that his presence at the BAC meeting on May 2 was not meant to coerce or influence the members, but to underscore the urgency of the matter.
He emphasized the need to fast-track the project, which aims to install e-gates at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and other major airports in time for the BI’s 85th anniversary this September.Viado explained that since assuming office as commissioner in October, he has ordered a review of the bureau’s processes and technologies to support modernization, even hiring technical advisers for the task.
“Modernizing the systems of the BI has always been my drive. We are operating on an 85-year-old law and our technologies are almost outdated,” he said.“We have no time to dilly dally, the budget is in our appropriations for this year. If not finalized, it could be removed from our budget by the Department of Budget and Management,” he warned.
A technical working group was formed in February to conduct a market study on the procurement of additional electronic gates.
“The terms of reference (TOR) in procuring the e-gates were crafted to upgrade and expand the system by integrating automated biometric identification systems. This has already been approved and is set for posting,” he said.
However, during the latest BAC meeting – where approval was expected – one member allegedly proposed further revisions that would delay the process.
One such proposal involved the inclusion of iris scan capabilities in the TOR, which Viado criticized as unnecessary and extremely costly.
Countries like the US and Canada do not use iris scanning in immigration processing due to its high cost and unsuitability for long-term use, he said.
Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado has expressed frustration over the prolonged procurement process for 101 electronic gates (e-gates) for airports worth P1.9 billion.
BI Deputy Commissioner Daniel Laogan reportedly tendered his resignation as the bureau’s Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) chairman, citing “personal reasons.”
In a statement, Viado clarified that his presence at the BAC meeting on May 2 was not meant to coerce or influence the members, but to underscore the urgency of the matter.
He emphasized the need to fast-track the project, which aims to install e-gates at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and other major airports in time for the BI’s 85th anniversary this September.“I lead with discipline and urgency. I don’t tolerate complacency – when something needs to change, it must change now. I may be strict, but I get things done,” said Viado.
“When change is needed, it must not be delayed,” he added in Filipino.
Viado explained that since assuming office as commissioner in October, he has ordered a review of the bureau’s processes and technologies to support modernization, even hiring technical advisers for the task.
“Modernizing the systems of the BI has always been my drive. We are operating on an 85-year-old law and our technologies are almost outdated,” he said. The e-gates program reportedly began in June 2024, prior to Viado’s appointment as BI chief.
“We have no time to dilly dally, the budget is in our appropriations for this year. If not finalized, it could be removed from our budget by the Department of Budget and Management,” he warned.
A technical working group was formed in February to conduct a market study on the procurement of additional electronic gates.
“The terms of reference (TOR) in procuring the e-gates were crafted to upgrade and expand the system by integrating automated biometric identification systems. This has already been approved and is set for posting,” he said.
However, during the latest BAC meeting – where approval was expected – one member allegedly proposed further revisions that would delay the process.
One such proposal involved the inclusion of iris scan capabilities in the TOR, which Viado criticized as unnecessary and extremely costly.
Countries like the US and Canada do not use iris scanning in immigration processing due to its high cost and unsuitability for long-term use, he said.
“I lead with discipline and urgency… I don’t tolerate complacency when something needs to change, it must change now… I may be strict, but I get things done,” Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said Viado has expressed frustration over prolonged procurement process for 101 electronic gates (e-gates) for airports worth P1.9 billion.
BI Deputy Commissioner Daniel Laogan reportedly tendered his resignation as bureau’s Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) chairman, citing “personal reasons.”
In statement, Viado clarified that his presence at BAC meeting on May 2 was not meant to coerce or influence members, but to underscore urgency of the matter.
He emphasized need to fast-track project, aims to install e-gates at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and other major airports in time for BI’s 85th anniversary this September.
Viado explained since assuming office as commissioner in October, he has ordered review of bureau’s processes and technologies to support modernization, even hiring technical advisers for the task.
“Modernizing systems of BI has always been my drive…we are operating on 85-year-old law and our technologies are almost outdated,” he said. E-gates program reportedly began in June 2024, prior to Viado’s appointment as BI chief.
“We have no time to dilly dally, budget is in our appropriations for this year…if not finalized, it could be removed from our budget by Department of Budget and Management,” he warned.
Technical working group was formed in February to conduct market study on procurement of additional electronic gates.
“Terms of reference ,TOR in procuring e-gates were crafted to upgrade and expand system by integrating automated biometric identification systems… has already been approved and is set for posting,” he said.
However, during latest BAC meeting where approval was expected one member allegedly proposed further revisions that would delay process.
One such proposal involved inclusion of iris scan capabilities in TOR, Viado criticized as unnecessary and extremely costly.
Countries like US and Canada do not use iris scanning in immigration processing due to its high cost and unsuitability for long-term use, he said.
5 days to Midterm 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
Ch research vessel, capable of underwater mapping, out of Ph waters
By J.Lo
“It’s worrisome because these Chinese research vessels have capability for deep sea mapping… there is possibility that they are doing this to support submarine navigation,” Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesman on West Philippine Sea issues Commodore Jay Tarriela said at press briefing.Chinese research vessel believed to be engaged in deep sea mapping to support submarine operations was escorted out of waters of Ilocos Norte on Monday.
Tarriela said Tan Suo 3 was first detected illegally conducting marine scientific research about 92 nautical miles off Burgos, Ilocos Norte on May 1.
He stressed that such activities pose serious threat to security, noting that deep sea mapping of seabed can be used to facilitate deployment of submarines.
On Monday, PCG said it deployed BRP Teresa Magbanua and aircraft to monitor and escort Tan Suo 3 out of country’s exclusive economic zone.
During operation, PCG observed manned submersible vessel, Shenhai Yongshi or Deep-Sea Warrior, approaching Chinese ship, retrieved it from water.
Submersible, designed for deep-sea exploration and scientific research, is capable of diving to depth of 4,500 meters.
PCG also reported recovery of unidentified yellow piece of equipment, could be part of instruments used by Chinese in their research operations.
As of 10 in the morning yesterday, Tan Suo 3 was located about 250 nautical miles off Burgos, outside Philippine EEZ.
Meanwhile, as conclusion of this year’s Balikatan exercises nears, Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of US Joint Chiefs of Staff, called Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Monday to assure him of Trump administration’s commitment to stronger defense alliance “rooted in shared interest and democratic values.”
Balikatan exercises end on May 9.
Joint Staff spokesman Navy Capt. Jereal Dorsey said Caine and Brawner, during call, “discussed importance of US-Philippines relationship, opportunities to increase bilateral and multilateral engagements and commitment to free and open Indo-Pacific region.”
“US-Philippines’ bilateral security partnership is key to managing emerging threats across Indo-Pacific region,” Dorsey said in readout.
Among last events of Balikatan was search and rescue drill off Zambales.
Philippine Air Force’s 505th Search and Rescue Group (SRG) teamed up with its US counterpart during exercise held in combat conditions.
Lt. Col. John Paul Salgado, Combined Joint Information Bureau of Exercise Balikatan 40-2025, said Filipino and US troops utilized their respective air assets and executed realistic search and rescue missions.
Utilizing Bell 205A and Super Huey helicopters, Salgado said PAF personnel performed helocast insertions and hoist extractions, with aerial security.
During search and rescue events, US C-130J located “survivor “and deployed survival kit, enabling seamless joint response by both Philippine and US forces.
Salgado said US Marine Corps V-22 Osprey conducted parallel search and rescue operation, highlighting interoperability and under post-recovery, while PAF’s S7 aeromedical team provided simulated in-flight treatment before transferring patient to ground medical personnel at Clark Air Base.
“These complex drills sharpened both nations’ readiness for life-saving missions in contested environments and vital role of 505th SRG in national and allied operations,” he said.
At Camp Aguinaldo from April 29 to May 1, Philippine, US, and Japanese military forces, along with civilian leaders, gathered for Balikatan 25 Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Tabletop Exercise.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., meanwhile, has committed to further modernize PCG, citing its crucial role in protecting West Philippine Sea.
“In time of global instability and rising maritime tensions, we look to you, together with Philippine Navy and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, to stand ground in stormy seas and never waver in what is right,” the President said in his speech at oath-taking ceremony for 29 newly promoted PCG officers at Malacañang.
6 days to Midterm 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
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan
1st e-jeepney factory opens in Lima, Batangas
By J.Lo
“We copied iconic jeepney design exactly because drivers and transport groups requested it… government required it…but now, we’re making it sustainable,” former Ilocos Sur governor Luis “Chavit” Singson said gesturing to factory floor where three models of e-jeepneys were on display game-changing moment occurred when Philippines’ first e-jeepney assembly plant opened in Lima, Batangas, bringing country step closer to eco-friendly, cleaner and greener commutes.
Singson has spent years standing with jeepney drivers and operators struggling with cost of shift to modernized transport.
Inside vast assembly plant, Singson spoke about his mission: to give jeepney drivers fighting chance in modern era.
For the former governor, plant, named “LCS (Luis Chavit Singson) EMON Lima Factory,” is more than just business , it’s about saving livelihoods and catching up with Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program.
Each basic unit costs P1.2 million, against prevailing market price of P2.5 to P3 million a price Singson claimed drivers could recover in two to three years.
“We plan to produce 500 units a month, but if demand grows, we’ll ramp it up,” he added.
Unlike imported e-vehicles, e-jeepneys come with crucial advantage in local parts and maintenance support.
“If something breaks, we can fix it here,” he said.
However, he said hurdle is route approvals.
“We are waiting for Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to process franchise applications for e-jeepney transportation services,” Singson added.
While awaiting local permits, he said international interest is growing. Paraguay has already ordered 60 units at P2.5 million each , deal he admitted would help offset costs.
“Everything will be assembled here, then exported…it takes just two hours with four workers per unit,” he said.
Newly opened assembly plant, expected to employ close to 100 Filipino workers, will later expand to Visayas and Mindanao.
Singson brushed off political motives in his senatorial run for 2025 midterm elections.
“I don’t want political colors, that is why I withdrew; I want solutions,” he said, adding that his focus remains on transport sector , a cause he’s championed since PUV modernization plan floated during then-president Fidel Ramos’ time.
Chavit’s daughter, Richelle Singson of Ako Ilokano Ako Party-list, earlier vowed to boost her father’s e-jeepney initiative through their party-list, saying former doesn’t need Senate seat to serve.
“Itinutuloy namin ang laban ni Daddy,” Richelle pledged, keeping her father’s transport modernization promise alive.
Meanwhile, Orlando Marquez, president of Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators sa Pilipinas, couldn’t hide his excitement about historic facility.
“Manong Chavit thought of this…he embraced us in transport industry…we are happy because finally, after years of struggles with modernization, first e-jeepney assembly plant in the Philippines is here,” Marquez said.
Transport leader highlighted game-changing economics of locally made e-jeepneys, surprisingly low compared to imports.
Zaldy Pingay of the Stop and Go Transport Coalition cannot thank Singson enough for the blessing.
He said: “He’s giving us electric jeepneys at rock-bottom prices,zero downpayment, zero interest. But more than that, he’s saving the soul of our iconic Philippine jeepney.”
“Hindi mawawala ang mukha ng ating minamahal na jeepney,” he added, referring to assembled unit that maintained vibrant colors and familiar silhouette of traditional jeepneys.
He said Filipinos will build and maintain e-jeepneys, from assembly line workers to service technicians.
“Maraming trabaho ang magbubukas, from Batangas to entire country,stimulus package for our local economy,” Pingay said.
Assembly plant, former governor’s long-held dream, is part of partnership between LCS Group of Companies and South Korea’s E-MON Co. , global leader in electric mobility sharing services.
Designed by renowned Korea Automobile Technology Institute, this cutting-edge e-jeepney, with 27-seat capacity, combines modern efficiency with classic Filipino charm.
6 days to Midterm 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
“World War II corvette Miguel Malvar took on water while being positioned approximately 30 nautical miles west of San Antonio, Zambales before sinking at 7:20 in the morning at its intended location for MARSTRIKE,” Philippine Navy(PN) spokesman Capt. John Percie Alcos said in press briefing said decommissioned Navy ship, originally scheduled to be sunk during this year’s maritime strike (MARSTRIKE) as part of Balikatan exercises, sank off coast of San Antonio, Zambales ahead of drill.
Alcos added that former Miguel Malvar sank while being towed to its designated location.
“No personnel were injured. Prior to the towing of the target vessel to operational area, BRP Miguel Malvar underwent environmental cleaning and preparation for MARSTRIKE,” he added.
Lt. Col. John Paul Salgado, chief of Balikatan Exercises’ Combined Joint Information Bureau, said vessel was chosen because it had exceeded its service life and was no longer fit for normal operations.
Despite premature sinking, MARSTRIKE exercise remains unchanged as part of Balikatan 40-2025’s command post training.
In separate maritime development, Philippine Coast Guard reported presence of Chinese research vessel and manned submersible operating within country’s exclusive economic zone off coast of Ilocos Norte.
According to PCG spokesman for West Philippine Sea concerns Commodore Jay Tarriela, said 97-meter patrol vessel Teresa Magbanua detected Chinese research ship Tan Suo 3 approximately 92 nautical miles off Burgos, Ilocos Norte on May 1.
PCG aircraft conducting maritime domain awareness flight yesterday morning confirmed Tan Suo 3 remained in the area.
According to Tarriela, female officer aboard Teresa Magbanua and male aircraft crew member challenged vessel via radio, stating that its “irregular movements were deemed inconsistent with freedom of navigation and indicative of marine scientific research activities, violate sovereign rights of the Philippines.”
He added that Chinese vessel had violated Philippine Maritime Zones Act, United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and 2016 Arbitral Award.
While confronting Tan Suo 3, PCG also spotted manned deep-sea submersible, identified as Shenhai Yongshi or Deep-Sea Warrior, fast approaching Chinese vessel before being retrieved by its crew.
“This submersible is engineered for deep-sea exploration and scientific research, with capability to dive to depths of 4,500 meters,” he pointed out.
He also reported that rigid hull inflatable boat was launched to recover yellow-colored unidentified piece of equipment, may also be linked to research activities.
“These actions of CRV serve as clear evidence that People’s Republic of China is conducting illegal marine scientific research activities within Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, lacking legal authority to undertake such activities in this area,” said Tarriela.
7 days to Midterm 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
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan
‘The Bayou’ alligator thriller shot in the Ph now streaming
By Cynthia Montojo
“Vacation turns disaster when Houston grad and her friends escape plane crash in desolate Louisiana everglades, only to discover there’s something way more dangerous lurking in shallows,” goes film’s synopsis.
Hollywood creature flick “The Bayou,” directed by Taneli Mustonen and Brad Watson, is set in Louisiana Everglades but was actually shot in the Philippines.
Production team of “The Bayou,” led by cinematographer Steven Hall, shot for three weeks in the Philippines in late 2023 with help of local crews to create what was meant to mirror Louisiana swamps.
Crew even credited local talent and hospitality for playing role in putting movie together.
Watson acknowledged in statement Philippines had slightly different climate to Louisiana swamps yet Hall managed to make both locations look one and the same.
“Steven knew how to get right amount of steam, smoke and atmosphere into greenery into swampland to make it feel like that sweaty heaty, humid Louisiana environment,so, when Steven’s doing his masterful job of that in every shot, bayou’s automatically starting to be character,” Watson said
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
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