happy Birthday Andrea Mae Sebugan, more birthdays to come
Aspirants file your certificate of candidacy on October 1-8,2024
Substitute candidates must be with same surname and political party
Partylist must file Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance
Soldiers killed by lightning in Kalinga
By J.Lo
“My heart bleeds for them,” Major General Audrey Pasia, commander of 5th ID said two soldiers on mission against communist guerillas between borders of Pasil and Lubuagan town in Kalinga were killed not by rebels but by lightning.
Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division (ID) identified two fatalities as Cpl. Andrew Monterubio of Gamu, Isabela and PFC Inmongog Aronchay of Sadanga, Mt. Province.
The duo were with other members of their platoon reportedly on foot when lightning struck killing the two.
Four other soldiers identified Sgt. Dennis Bananao of Tanudan, Kalinga; PFC Melvin Danggalan of Paracelis, Mt. Province; PFC Abegil Awingan of Pinukpuk, Kalinga; and PFC Riel Angya of Pasil, Kalinga were also hurt.
Pasia stressed sacrifice of two will serve as inspiration for whole division.
“Ang dalawang buhay na nasawi ng trahedya ay papalitan ng libu-libong sundalong handang tanganan ang nabitawan nilang armas para ipagpatuloy ang sinumpaang ipagtanggol ang bandila ng Pilipinas at protektahan ang soberanya nito,” military official said.
happy Birthday Andrea Mae Sebugan, more birthdays to come
Aspirants file your certificate of candidacy on October 1-8,2024
Substitute candidates must be with same surname and political party
Partylist must file Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance
Torres assumed WesCom, Carlos relieved
By J.Lo
“Designation of Rear Admiral Alfonso Torres Jr. as commander of WESCOM is an administrative decision of AFP,” Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad told reporters military official named by Chinese embassy as one who approved “new model” for managing BRP Sierra Madre issue has been relieved of his post as commander of military’s Western Command (WESCOM) has territorial jurisdiction over West Philippine Sea (WPS).
AFP said relief of Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos has nothing to do with China’s allegations that he had been speaking and negotiating with Chinese authorities regarding Sierra Madre issue. AFP did not reveal any new assignment for Carlos, who remains on leave.
Chinese embassy earlier claimed one of its diplomats recorded conversation with ranking military official who allegedly claimed being in graces of Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. and National Security Adviser Eduardo Año.
Carlos, shortly after allegations came out, went on official leave supposedly due to personal reasons, with AFP insisting that WESCOM chief was only temporarily leaving the post and would return.
Military confirmed Carlos had now been officially replaced by Rear Admiral Alfonso Torres Jr. Again, AFP maintained decision had nothing to do with controversy.
“It is part of ongoing changes in leadership and key positions within military is necessary for the institution to adapt to evolving security environment and effectively address emerging challenges, WESCOM’s critical role requires fulltime leader that has more years in service in order to provide continuity and strategic direction,we offer our full support to Rear Admiral Torres and we are confident in his ability to lead with distinction,” Trinidad declared.
Carlos himself has not issued statement on the matter. Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Justice and even Senate are now investigating possible violation of Anti-Wiretapping Law and international laws by Chinese, with embassy’s admission of secretly recorded conversation with Carlos.
“What we are facing now are blatant disregard of internationally accepted principles and deployment of weapons of mass distraction by parties who seek to drive wedge between united citizenry,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.said in speech during graduation of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Bagong Sinag” class of 2024 country will “vigorously defend what is ours.” President Marcos told graduating military cadets in thinly veiled reference to mounting tensions with China, has become more brazen in staking claims in Philippine waters.his remarks came on heels of Beijing’s announcement it has empowered its coast guard to detain for 60 days without trial anyone or any vessel found trespassing in what it considers its territorial waters. China’s territorial claim, rebuffed by international community, covers almost entire South China Sea, conduit for $3 trillion in annual ship-borne trade. Beijing intends to begin enforcing its “maritime administrative law” on June 15.
On several occasions in March and April, China coast guard using powerful water cannons tried to prevent Filipino vessels from delivering food and provisions to fishermen in Panatag Shoal and to military outpost on BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.
Marcos said that while Filipinos are now feeling the progress and peace government has tirelessly worked on for years, new challenges have emerged.
“But people are not fooled… they can see through such schemes…so, these attempts to divert our attention, dissipate our energy better spent on making country should not draw us away from urgent tasks ahead,” he added, without mentioning China.
Marcos, as president is also commander-in-chief of armed forces, said urgent tasks at hand include keeping people safe in their homes, securing territory, and maintaining stability of democracy.
“Against intruders who have been disrespecting our territorial integrity, we will vigorously defend what is ours, but our conduct is always guided by law and by our responsibility as rules-abiding member of community of nations,” he said.
Philippine Coast Guard said China’s rule should be ignored, and that nobody can bar Filipinos from sailing to West Philippine Sea, area of South China Sea inside Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. It dismissed Beijing’s announcement as “psychological operations.”
China made the announcement on May 15, the same day dozens of Filipino fishing boats and small vessels assembled by the Atin Ito Coalition began their trip to Panatag Shoal to deliver food and fuel to fishermen.
In his speech, Marcos congratulated the fresh PMA graduates and reminded them of the key role they would play as soldiers.
“This academy has not only trained you to be proficient in warfare, but to be the champions of the welfare of our people. Because soldiering now is no longer limited to defending territories, but to improve the lives of the people who live there,” the Chief Executive said.
“This is what you have signed up for in your military career, for which you have given up the simplicity and the safety of civilian life. Discipline and honor code are your non-negotiables,” he added.
Marcos noted that while the cadets had to endure physical separation from their loved ones, their sacrifices would not be in vain.
“Your gallantry will not be squandered by those who benefit from it. More so if they see that you have adhered to the following tenets of your calling and the demands of the public trust that you hold,” Marcos said.
“You will abide by these words, even in the most trying of circumstances. When rations grow thin, morale is low, let these words continue to sustain you.”
The Bagong Sinag class is composed of 278 graduates, 54 of whom were females.
Escalating tension
In an interview with dwIZ, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said China would only worsen the situation in the region if it makes good its threat to apprehend “trespassers” in the South China Sea.
“I am appealing to the Chinese government not to force that on us because it would only escalate the tension,” Zubiri said.
He reminded China that it is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) that protects the freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea.
“This means any fishing boat or cargo ship can pass through without the threat of being detained or captured by claimant countries. There should be freedom of navigation and free open access in the Indo-Pacific Region,” Zubiri said.
He stressed that arresting those onboard a Philippine Coast Guard or a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources vessel is tantamount to arbitrary illegal detention, a serious offense in the Philippines.
“That is a unilateral illegal move under UNCLOS, an illegal act that would only fan the tension in the region,” the Senate leader said.
Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, for his part, asked China to adhere to a rules-based order, instead of resorting to acts of intimidation to assert its claim.
“We’re awaiting the pronouncement of the Department of Foreign Affairs if they have received any official document on this. Nonetheless, we have taken note of this matter,” said Estrada, who chairs the Senate national defense and security committee.
“While we respect China’s right to safeguard its territorial interests, we also emphasize the importance of adhering to international norms and agreements,” he added.
“The Philippines remains committed to upholding our rights and interests in the West Philippine Sea. We hope China will likewise respect the rights of other nations operating in these waters. We encourage all parties to exercise restraint and seek peaceful solutions to disputes,” Estrada said.
Speaker Martin Romualdez also lambasted China for issuing rules that could only inflame the situation in the region.
“China’s aggressive pronouncements are a blatant escalation of tensions in West Philippine Sea. These unilateral actions flagrantly violate international law and the established norms that guide the Philippines and other law-abiding nations with claims in the South China Sea,” he said in a statement.
He stressed that China must “act as a responsible member of the global community rather than imposing its own laws unilaterally and bullying other nations.”
“The House of the Filipino People will not tolerate any arrests of our citizens or fishermen within our own Exclusive Economic Zone. We will fiercely defend our sovereignty and ensure the safety and rights of our people,” he maintained.
17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
happy Birthday Andrea Mae Sebugan, more birthdays to come
Aspirants file your certificate of candidacy on October 1-8,2024
Substitute candidates must be with same surname and political party
Partylist must file Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance
Colorum PUJ crackdown starts peaceful
By J.Lo
“NCRPO made sure that we have sufficient number of vehicles on standby and staff ready to respond and provide assistance to passengers affected by first day of implementation of PUV Modernization Program,” National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) spokesperson Lt. Col. Eunice Salas said jeepney protest against public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP) was peaceful and quiet despite unconsolidated transport groups vowing to continue to ply their routes.
Salas said there were no reported significant incidents and situation was normal, even as Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) ordered start of anti-colorum operations nationwide.
Mar Valbuena, Manibela president, would continue to operate because they do not recognize mass revocation of their franchises, noting that group still has pending legal recourses to question franchise revocation and government’s PUVMP.
He argued LTFRB should first seek approval of Congress before revoking franchises of thousands of jeepneys nationwide.
Manibela and Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide or PISTON protested outside LTFRB central office in Quezon City and called for resignation of its chief, Teofilo Guadiz, claiming that he mishandled PUVMP. Militant groups Anakbayan and Bayan Muna also joined protest.
Salas told media that NCRPO deployed mobility assets metro-wide to provide assistance to commuters if need arises, during first day of colorum PUJ crackdown.
Guadiz earlier said only about 10,000 jeepney units including 1,900 jeepneys in Metro Manila have not consolidated nationwide.
LTFRB said apprehension of unconsolidated PUVs will be spearheaded by Land Transportation Office, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and Philippine National Police.
Board has directed consolidated units to display their franchise documents on their windshields to avoid apprehension.
Drivers could face one-year suspension of license, P50,000 fine for operator, and 30-day impoundment for vehicle.
happy Birthday Andrea Mae Sebugan, more birthdays to come
Aspirants file your certificate of candidacy on October 1-8,2024
Substitute candidates must be with same surname and political party
Partylist must file Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance
Komedya o Komida
Ni Derek Jorge
Petrolyo, idiskwento sa senior at pwd
PAGBATI sa mga kongresistang nagsisikap pagmalasakitan ang kapakanan naming mga nakatatanda-pagpapanatili sa 20% diskwento sa mga pangunahing pangangailangan. Shout out muna kina Binang 1st Barangay Chairman Alfredo Quiambao, secretary Michelle Santos at treasurer Con-con Adatu,admin Ricardo Sta. Ana, konsehal Aru Cando, Pepito Nicandro, Gerry Noel. Pero bakit kaya hanggang 20% lang Kiwal, bulati kong kikiwal-kiwal, dahil ba tinatanggal lang ang tubo sa puhunan at hindi ito kailangang galawin? Sa panukala nitong ilang deputado, ipinasasaklaw sa diskwento kahit mga produktong ipinakikilala pa lamang sa pamamagitan ng “promo”. Ipinaggigiitan ho ng mga hotel na ang mga ratang nasa promo gaya ng P500 ang sampung oras na pamamalagi na hindi saklaw ng 20% discount. Yun ho kasing promo ng kumpanya ay para sa kapakanan nito, paano naman ang batas na nilalabag na, dapat pang idiskwento ang nasa promo. Gusto ko ring tingkiin ang petrolyo, gasoline at krudo ng nagpapakargang senior citizen, dapat ikonsidera rin. Komedya na naman ang magaganap sa mga lansangan sa pagtataguang pung at girian ng mga “unconsolidated traditional jeepney” at magsisiga-sigaang enforcer. Tapos na kasi kasambahay ang grace period ng mga uncon at simul ana ng tugisan ng mga kulorum. Tyak magtatago ang mga kulorum hanggang manghinawa ang mga tugis boys. Alam nyo naman ang ugaling ningas-kugon, di pa rin nawawala at alam ng mga kulorum yun, pahinga muna, payagay-tagay muna. Pagkatapos ng sigwada, muling mamamayagpag ang mga kulorum, “happy days are here again”. Dyan nga Kiwal, bulati kong kikiwal-kiwal sa Imus City, Cavite, marami sa mga traditional jeepney ang ni walang ruta sa gilid, byaheng Dasmarinas City bayan-Imus City proper, kinunsinte ng mga awtoridad at pamahalaang lokal. Inutil rin dyan ang bantay-kulorum. Mababawasan kasambahay ang komedya sa munisipyo, city hall at barangay hall dahil mauudlot ang pamumulitika sa pamamahagi ng ayuda ng mga pulitiko. . Hindi na ho kasi kasambahay idaraan sa opisina ng mga ehekutibo lokal ang ayuda ni Social Welfare secretary Rex Gatchalian. Ito ho bang Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program o AKAP. Ang konswelo na lang ni Mayor at barangay chairman ay makapagmasid sa pamimigay, iniiwasan na ho kasi Kiwal, bulati kong kikiwal-kiwal na akalain ninyong mula sa pulitiko iyon kaya muling maiboboto sa nalalapit na naming halalan. Komedya naman talaga itong nagaganap sa ating hudikatura, makaraan kasambahay ng mahigit isang dekadang paglilitis, katarungan nang tinatawag ang pagkakakulong ng tigagalawang taon ng dalawang saragateng tsuper na kahit tinawag ng korteng maingat naman sa pagmamaneho ay nakamatay pa rin ng beteranang mamamahayag at edukador. Makukulong nga kasambahay itong dalawang tsuper Daniel Espinosa at Victor Ancheta makaraang mapatunayan ni Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 83 Judge Ralph Lee na nagkasala ng reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property with homicide sa pagkamatay ng journalist at UP Professor Chit Estella. Pinagbabayad naman kapwa ang Universal Guiding Star Bus Line Corp. at Nova Auto Transport Bus Corporation ng P7.46 milyong “moral and exemplary damage” sa pamilya ni Estella o Lourdes Estella-Simbulan. Masasabing nasa “wrong place at wrong time” si Chit nang mga panahong iyon. Itong tsuper ng traditional jeepney byaheng Sto. Nino -Meycauayan City, mas pinili pang libre pamasahe kaysa tanggapin ang perang papel na P20, baka raw kasi hindi tanggapin mula sa kanya. Kasambahay, hangga’t hindi pinawawalang-bisa ng Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas ang pinalaganap nitong salapi sa bansa, kung nababasa pa naman ang serial number, hindi ito pwedeng hindi tanggapin. Isinukli din naman sa akin ang P20, at tinanggap ko naman kaya kailangang tanggapin mo rin driver, ang katangahan, hindi ipinag-aaraw-araw yan. Kung walang tatanggap, ang bangko, kahit anong bangko tatanggapin yan. Kasama yan sa hanap-buhay mo driver, kung wala pala akong alam, ibang salapi pa ang ibabayad mo, nungka. Consolidated na ba yang jeep mo, kung hindi magtago ka na. Tinutugis ho ngayon ng mga pulis ang kabaro nilang babae dahil nahuling nakikipagniig sa kapwa pulis at huli rin ng maybahay ang katalik. Hindi kinilala ni Col. Fajardo ang pasaway sa matinding kahihiyan, sino kaya ang life coach niyan? Nananawagan kasambahay ang obispong katoliko sa mga panatikong magdasal para ulanin. Noong araw ipinagpuprusisyon pa ng mga panatiko ang paghingi ng ulan kaya lang galit ang itaas sa pagkikilik ng imahen sa prusisyon dahil iyon ay dinidiyos pa kaysa Kanya. Paano diringgin kung mali ang pamamaraan. Lalo lamang lalala ang sitwasyon kung hindi matututuhan ng tao ang tamang pagtawag sa nasa Itaas.
Shout out muna sa Values Bocaue Advocates, Wilfredo Jimenez Jr., Alex Driodoco, Gemma Daseco, Delfin Lawa at Alex Castro. Shout out muna sa mga may “hang over” pang bagong Marked Men for Christ”. Nagsipagtapos ng phase 2 at 3 seminar sa Plaridel,Bulacan staff na kayo kung saka-sakali, unang staffing nyo ang Phase 1 sa San Carlos City, Pangasinan sa HUlyo 3-5,2024. Jonathan Fernandez, nagkakalimutan na yata a.. Salamat JO1 Adrian Montojo, magkatulungan tayo sa ikarereporma ng mga detenido.
happy Birthday Andrea Mae Sebugan, more birthdays to come
Aspirants file your certificate of candidacy on October 1-8,2024
Substitute candidates must be with same surname and political party
Partylist must file Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance
Maricel Soriano denies knowledge of drug allegations in unverified PDEA documents
By Cynthia Montojo
“Nagtataka ako dahil lahat ng tumestigo dito ay sinabing hindi naverify ang information ni Mr. Morales at walang imbestigasyon na naganap…pasensya na kung nalilito ako dito,” Veteran actress Maricel Soriano denied having any knowledge of supposed documents by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) allegedly linking her and the president to illegal substance abuse, saying that she is also “confused” on why she was invited to Senate hearing based on unverified document.
Facing Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs, visibly nervous Maricel also denied having used cocaine in the past, refuting 2011 news report said her two former household workers had fled her condominium unit allegedly due to her drug use.
Senate hearing aimed to determine authenticity of two supposed “leaked” PDEA documents recently shared by blogger Maharlika, known purveyor of dis- and mis-information who has consistently engaged in influence operations against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Unverified documents dated March 11, 2012 supposedly detail anti-illegal drug operations conducted by the PDEA against one “Bongbong Marcos” and Soriano.
Public accusations of illegal drug use in the Philippines are dangerous as these potentially place individuals at risk of violence or extrajudicial killings. Even if unproven, public speculation and insinuations individual abuses illegal drugs contribute to stigma of substance abuse, only effectively tackled as public health issue.
During hearing, Maricel has no knowledge of alleged PDEA documents. “Hindi ako nagbabasa ng mga ganyan,I don’t read those things,” the actress said.
Responding to a question by Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa, Maricel admitted to owning condominium unit 46-C Rizal Tower in Makati City, allegedly has links to former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency intelligence offer Jonathan Morales.
Actress said she sold condominium unit in 2012 and agreed to provide Dela Rosa with documents for deed of sale later.
Maricel spoke and was spoken to for six minutes out of three-hour hearing, was also asked by Dela Rosa to “set record straight” on her alleged cocaine use and “abuse” of her two former household workers.
Dela Rosa who cited news reports but did not state from which publication asked whether it is true that actress’ two household workers left her condominium unit due to her use of illegal drugs.
Maricel denied allegation and said her two former helpers left because they allegedly stole from her.
The actress also denied allegations that she abused them, saying: “Paano ko naman po bubugbugin, dalawa sila.”
Reading from her prepared speech, Maricel is confused as to why she has been invited to the hearing even as alleged document claiming drug allegations against her remains unverified.
PDEA chief Moro Virgilio Lazo said in earlier Senate hearing there are “no such documents” in PDEA that link Marcos and Soriano to illegal drug use.
Meanwhile, Morales has claimed documents are authentic, saying he prepared and signed them before. Dela Rosa also insists that alleged leaked documents are not fake.
Last week, Rep. Robert Ace Barbers (Surigao del Norte) accused Senate panel of instigating “drama” by asking Morales to show up and testify about unconfirmed PDEA documents.
Barbers, chairs House dangerous drugs committee, called Morales “dishonorably dismissed” PDEA officer with “very shady past” as a police officer, and later, PDEA agent.
House lawmaker said Barbers was dismissed from PDEA in 2013 due to “grave misconduct, dishonesty, and conduct prejudicial to best interest of service.”
happy Birthday Andrea Mae Sebugan, more birthdays to come
Aspirants file your certificate of candidacy on October 1-8,2024
Substitute candidates must be with same surname and political party
Partylist must file Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance
Lumpia Queen, 6 other Pinoys made Forbes’ 30 Under 30
By Cynthia Montojo
Forbes “30 Under 30 Asia,” chose seven Filipinos in list recognizes young entrepreneurs, leaders and trailblazers from across Asia-Pacific region.
Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia Class of 2024 features 300 people all under age of 30 who are leading transformation of industries and finding innovative ways to navigate new business realities in the region.
Those in the list come across 10 categories covering The Arts (Art and Style, Food and Drink), Entertainment and Sports, Finance and Venture Capital; Media, Marketing and Advertising; Retail and Ecommerce, Enterprise Technology; Industry, Manufacturing and Energy, Healthcare and Science, Social Impact and Consumer Technology.
Of the seven Filipinos in the list, three are from media, marketing and advertising category.
They are 23-year-old content creator Abigail Marquez, 27-year-old content creator Ramon Christian Larga, and 23-year-old internet artist Chia Amisola.
Marquez, popularly known as Lumpia Queen, runs cooking channel on TikTok with more than three million followers where she promotes all aspects of her nation’s food culture.
Larga, licensed pharmacist, has nearly four million followers on TikTok with videos sharing his experiences and explaining how ethical pharmacist helps take care of customers.
Amisola, for her part, is founder of Developh, nonprofit community seeks to promote use of technology as tool for liberation rather than oppression.
Meanwhile, included in the arts category is 28-year-old Joshua Serafin, artist based in Brussels who combines dance, music and theater with live performance, typically exploring concepts of cultural identity, transmigration and queer representation.
The 29-year-old Mikaela Reyes, co-founder of Manila-based cross-border payment startup Parallax, was part of finance and venture capital category. Launched in 2023, Parallax makes it easier and cheaper to move money around globe using cryptocurrency and blockchain.
For media, marketing and advertising category, 21-year-old Amanda Cua made list. Cua is founder of BackScoop, newsletter on startup scene.
Also making it in list under entertainment and sports category is 25-year-old rapper Ezekiel Miller, who caught attention of rap legends Dr. Dre and Eminem.
The 2024 list features diverse set of listees, with 21 countries and territories represented across Asia-Pacific region.
India had most with 86 entries, followed by China and Japan at 32 each, Singapore with 27, Australia with 26 and Indonesia with 18.
Among those featured on this year’s list are K-pop girl band Ive; Singapore’s track and field athlete Veronica Shanti Pereira, Japan’s youngest mayor Ryosuke Takashima of Ashiya City, Maya Kale who cofounded Singapore-based supplements company Moom Health, and Indonesia’s Muhammad Agung Saputra, co-founder of SurplusIndonesia.
Forbes Asia said more than 4,000 candidates were evaluated by its team and panel of independent expert judges on variety of factors, including, but not limited to, funding and or revenue, social impact, scale, inventiveness and potential.
happy Birthday Andrea Mae Sebugan, more birthdays to come
Aspirants file your certificate of candidacy on October 1-8,2024
Substitute candidates must be with same surname and political party
Partylist must file Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance
Maute mother gets life for terror financing
By J.Lo
“After judicious review of records and evidence of this case, court finds prosecution was able to prove elements of crime of terrorism financing,” Taguig court has convicted mother of siblings Omar and Abdullah Maute for financing terror attacks in Marawi City.
In decision promulgated recently, Taguig Regional Trial Court Branch 266 Judge Marivic Vitor sentenced Ominta Romato Maute, also known as Farhana Maute, to life in prison for terrorism financing.
Court has found Maute matriarch guilty of violating Republic Act 10168 or Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012.
She was ordered to pay fine of P500,000.
In 39-page ruling, Maute matriarch was charged with terrorism financing for “knowingly, willfully and unlawfully making available” vehicle registered under her name to members of terrorist group.
Court records showed on July 29, 2016, she allowed her Toyota Innova to be used by five terrorists: Mohammad Khayam Romato Maute, Omar Khayam Romato Maute, Abdullah Romato Maute, Mahater Romato Maute and Najib Pundug.
Authorities intercepted vehicle on the same day and recovered several improvised explosive devices.
In convicting Ominta, court said “element of willful intention in making available property was present.”
Court added second element, in which vehicle was made available to be used to facilitate commission of any terrorist act, was likewise present.
“Evidently, Toyota Innova was made available to be used to carry out attack committed by terrorist organization, in this case, Maute group,” decision read.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla welcomed conviction of Maute matriarch, describing it as “big win” in country’s fight against terrorism.
“We will never let terrorism prevail nor let it sow fear among our people… conviction exhibits our nation’s unity and resilience to fight evils lurking in our society, we are committed to scoring more convictions, particularly on cases involving terrorism and terrorism financing,” Remulla said in statement.
Remulla also commended prosecution panel handled case “for working up sweat to make sure justice is served.”
happy Birthday Andrea Mae Sebugan, more birthdays to come
Aspirants file your certificate of candidacy on October 1-8,2024
Substitute candidates must be with same surname and political party
Partylist must file Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance
RTWPB working on pay hike petitions’
By J.Lo
“Review has already started…we don’t need to be ordered…we have mandate and we are obliged to perform our responsibility,” Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma told reporters different Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) have started review of existing minimum wage rates in their respective regions.
“Even without order process has started in all regions…we are looking into it and gathering information that will lead to public consultation,” Laguesma said.
During the Labor Day celebration in Malacañang, Laguesma said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.directed all RTWPBs to start review of existing wage rates.
Laguesma explained RTWPBs are authorized to start review 60 days before expiration of one-year effectivity of last wage order.
“Sixty days before it lapses, there’s pending adjustment…as to how much, that will be determined by members of RTWPBs,” he noted.
Department of Labor and Employment-National Capital Region (DOLE-NCR) director Sara Mirasol said they will start review and conduct public consultation within month and workers can expect possible pay hike.
Mirasol said RTWPB in NCR has not received any formal petition for salary hikes, but they will conduct review and public consultation. “We are discussing it this month…we are not saying there’s something to be expected, but we will seriously consider increasing minimum wage,” Mirasol added.
She noted effectivity of last wage order in NCR was July 16, 2023. “It’s nearing anniversary date so we can already conduct consultation even without petition,” she said.
Laguesma noted wage orders issued by RTWPB not only benefit minimum wage earners but also those receiving higher pay due to wage distortion. But those receiving higher than minimum wage can opt to negotiate with their employers for salary increase.
To commemorate Labor Day, thousands of workers took to streets and pushed for immediate passage of pending measures granting P150 legislated wage increase.
Workers insisted increase given by RTWPBs is inadequate to enable workers to cope with rising prices of essential commodities.
They also claimed existing wage rates are discriminatory, since existing daily pay in some regions is lower than others.
ISKUP! 