Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
Von Voyage Tomas and Aida Capica
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 18.7k 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
Happy Birthday Jo God-Saves Lopez and Ulysses Lopez, more birthdays to come
“Investigation revealed Philippine intelligence agencies have long been focused on gathering information about China’s military deployments,” China’s state security authorities are looking into three Filipinos suspected of spying in the country that employs extensive state surveillance on its citizens and visitors.
Chinese state media Global Times reported Chinese state security authorities allegedly uncovered case of Filipino espionage.
Latest arrest in China came two days after Chinese embassy in Manila issued travel advisory, warning its citizens about frequent “harassment” of Chinese nationals by Philippine law enforcement agencies.
Filipino residing in China, allegedly repeatedly visited areas near Chinese military facilities, was being directed by “Philippine handler” engaging in espionage and intelligence-gathering activities within China.
China’s arrest of three Filipinos was reported after Philippine police arrested earlier six Chinese nationals and two accomplices for allegedly spying on US and Philippine Navy ship movements in Subic Bay.
Operation, led by National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), launched raid at Grande Island, former strategic fort at entrance to Subic Bay.
Chinese suspects were posing as fishermen and tourists, according to NBI.
Mass surveillance in China is network of monitoring systems used by Chinese central government to monitor Chinese citizens and visitors. It is primarily conducted through government, although corporate surveillance in connection with Chinese government has been reported to occur. China monitors through internet surveillance, camera surveillance, and through other digital technologies. It has become increasingly widespread and grown in sophistication under Chinese President Xi Jinping’s administration.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.7k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Chueches, 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
Election not a war
By J.Lo
“Despite competition, we should remain friends and brethren… should unite us rather than divide,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia urged candidates and their supporters to rein in their emotions.
As election violence intensifies, Garcia reminded candidates in midterm polls in May that electoral exercise is not war.
“Candidates should be best example of statesmanship,” Garcia said amid reported rise in number of election-related violence.
Election watchdog National Citizens Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) has expressed concern over alarming rise in election-related violence as election day approaches.
NAMFREL said violent incidents undermine principles of democracy and threaten integrity of electoral process. It urged all candidates, political parties and their supporters to reject violence.
“We urge all stakeholders to prioritize peace and orderliness as campaign period begins,” NAMFREL said.
Along with other civil society groups, NAMFREL would monitor potential flashpoints of violence and take measures to prevent escalation before harm occurs.
Meanwhile, at least 39 suspected election-related incidents (ERIs) have been recorded by Philippine National Police, according to PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo.
Of 39 cases reported, Fajardo said 11 were confirmed to be election-related, 23 cases found to have no connection to elections, and five still under investigation.
Fajardo noted that number of validated ERIs remains lower compared to previous elections, particularly 2019 midterm polls.
However, she cautioned that election period lasts until June 11, and authorities remain on alert to prevent any escalation, especially as local campaign period has begun.
“We know that local elections tend to be more intense because candidates often come from same families, communities, or social circles… we are closely monitoring the situation to ensure validated ERIs do not increase,” Fajardo said.
Fajardo also reported decline in number of areas classified as election areas of concern (EACs), from 403 recorded by Comelec on Jan. 8 down to 386 as of March 19.
Red and orange category areas saw reductions, with some moving to yellow category, while some previously classified as yellow were downgraded to green, meaning they are no longer considered at risk.
One of the contributing factors to this improvement, according to Fajardo, is swift response to security concerns raised by political aspirants.
She credited Comelec’s proactive approach, noting that Chairman Garcia and law enforcement agencies have been conducting security assessments in high-risk areas.
“We continuously address election risk factors such as intense political rivalries, private armed groups, serious security threats, and loose firearms… efforts have helped reduce number of EACs,” she said.
Among 11 validated ERIs, five are undergoing preliminary investigation, with cases already filed. Some suspects remain at large, but Fajardo confirmed elected officials, incumbents and aspirants are among those charged.
“We will not allow these cases to be disregarded…we are committed to ensuring that those involved in election-related violence are held accountable,” she said.
PNP has been on heightened alert since March 24, in response to simultaneous national and local election campaigns. Alert status will remain in place until elections conclude, Fajardo said.
Beginning April 1, PNP will also monitor summer vacation activities, including Holy Week exodus and major public events.
With heightened alert, at least 75 percent of PNP’s total force is deployed. Regular duty shifts have been extended from 12 hours to 15 hours to ensure continuous security coverage.
“Our deployment focuses on major roads, campaign sorties, transportation terminals, tourist destinations, and other public convergence areas,” Fajardo said, adding that they want to ensure that all major events run smoothly and securely.
There’s only 15 days left for those intending to observe conduct of coming national and local polls to file for accreditation with Comelec.
Comelec issued resolution setting April 15 as deadline for filing of accreditation for both domestic and foreign observers in scheduled May 12 elections.
Only Comelec-accredited domestic and foreign observers shall be given access to government facilities and polling precincts during elections.
“All Philippine nationals, whether as individuals or in groups, whether representing government or civil society interests, who are interested to observe conduct of the 2025 NLE shall file their applications,”Comelec said.
Individuals who are invited by poll body to participate in Comelec’s Guided International Election Observation Program must still comply with existing policies on the entry of foreign nationals as visitors to the Philippines and must secure entry visas.
To qualify for accreditation, Comelec said, applicants must have bonafide good intention to participate exclusively as observer.
“Observer-applicants must be free from any political, economic, or other conflicts of interests that would interfere with conduct of election observations impartially,” Comelec stressed.
Comelec requires applicants to disclose their intention to take part in conduct of elections as election observers. Applications may be sent via e-mail to election.observers@comelec.gov.ph, with documentary requirements.
Those based in National Capital Region may personally submit application or through authorized representative while those based outside of Metro Manila may submit to nearest Office of Regional Director, where they reside or hold office.
Duly accredited observers will be allowed access to all stages of electoral process, including preparatory activities, but subject to conditions as may be necessary for protection of Comelec personnel, property, privileged information, and integrity of elections.
Observers are expected to submit report of their observation mission to Comelec not later than June 11.
Comelec prohibits observers from engaging in partisan political activities or acts designed to affect results of elections and contribute or make any expenditure in connection with any election campaign or partisan political activity.
Observers are also barred from mingling and talking with voters inside any polling place, nor shall they threaten, intimidate, or actually cause any violence and propagate false and alarming reports relating to conduct of elections.
Any violation of prohibited acts, Comelec said, is punishable as election offense.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
Welcome to Philippines Tomas and Aida Capica
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 18.7k 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
Happy Birthday Jo God-Saves Lopez and Ulysses Lopez, more birthdays to come
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan
Floods of cases may be presented vs Duterte – ICC lawyer
By Nidz Godino
“This doesn’t mean that these are only incidents that may be included in the charge,” International Criminal Court (ICC) spokesman Fadi El Abdallah said ICC prosecutor may present additional evidence against former president Rodrigo Duterte as initial pieces of evidence on 43 killings were only for application of his arrest warrant.
“These were sample of incidents related, that were for purpose of issuing arrest warrant sufficient from point of view of judges, to sustain charge of murder as crime against humanity, for purpose of arrest warrant, first step in judicial process,” he added.
In original application for Duterte’s warrant of arrest, ICC prosecutor cited 45 acts of murder, four acts of torture and three acts of rape as bases for crimes against humanity charges that they are pursuing against former president.
It said cases were “representative sample of multiple acts of violence” form part of “widespread and systematic” attacks against civilian population.
When it issued arrest warrant against Duterte, judges of ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I agreed that there was “reasonable grounds to believe that … murders of persons allegedly involved in various forms of criminal activities, including drug-related ones, were committed” in the Philippines.
They specifically cited “at least” 43 killings, including 19 allegedly committed by so-called Davao Death Squad and 24 during drug war.
According to El Abdallah, prosecutor may submit additional evidence during confirmation of charges hearing, ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I has scheduled on Sept. 23.
“Confirmation of charges hearing is not trial… pre-trial phase, judges will decide whether or not there will be trial or if case will stop at this pre-trial stage, purpose of confirmation of charges is to test whether prosecutor’s evidence are sufficient to go to trial or if case should stop earlier…for that, prosecutor will have to demonstrate to judges, taking certain sample of evidence, that these evidence are strong enough,” added ICC spokesman.
While confirmation of charges hearing is only expected to last few days, El Abdallah said it was scheduled several months after Duterte’s initial appearance hearing to allow defense to review evidence against their client.
“Before confirmation of charges hearing, prosecutor will have to disclose, to transmit to the defense evidence he intends to rely during confirmation of charges hearing so that defense would have time to study it, to examine it,” he said, referring to “disclosure of evidence” process.
“Prosecutor may or may not call witness…same for defense…but if witnesses are called, other party will be able to cross examine them,” he added.
ICC prosecutor earlier confirmed disclosure of initial “181 items” cited in warrant application against Duterte.
El Abdallah said “it is part of defendant’s right to be provided with evidence prosecutor intends to rely during confirmation of charges hearing.”
“Upholding defense rights is key to ensure fairness of proceedings,” he added.
Meanwhile, not all of families of drug war victims are required to personally testify before ICC during confirmation of charges hearing, one of the five Filipino ICC-accredited lawyers said.
According to Center for International Law executive director and counsel for drug war victims Gilbert Andres, complainants need only to fill up form for victim participation.
“Not all victims can actually be presented before pre-trial chamber, so prosecutor will just choose whoever will be witness for that case,” Andres said.
Andres noted that witnesses to be presented before ICC will be chosen through Victims Participation and Reparations Section (VPRS).
“They will actually vet who will officially be admitted as victims who will participate and then they give their recommendation to pre-trial chamber, registry, through VPRS, will actually classify it to A,B,C… A will be victims who are really within scope of pre-trial chamber’s case, that is from Nov. 1, 2011 until March 16, 2019 and then B, those outside of scope and C those need to be determined,” Andres added.
Despite difference in spelling of their surnames, American author Nicholas Kaufmann did not escape attention of Filipinos mistook him for British-Israeli lawyer Nicholas Kaufman, who represents Duterte at ICC.
As early as March 20, days after Kaufman was formally recognized as Duterte’s lawyer, American author already posted on his Facebook page about the matter.
“People of the Philippines, I am *not* the ICC lawyer Nicholas Kaufman who is representing former president Duterte! Please stop messaging me!” he wrote.
Kaufmann wrote follow-up post, saying he is flooded “with followers and commenters from Philippines I guess don’t believe I’m not Duterte’s lawyer.”
“Our names aren’t even spelled the same ..he’s Kaufman with one N.. insane!” he added.
In response to question about nature of messages, Kaufmann said: “they started out pro-Duterte, but lately I’m getting some anti-Duterte commenters from Philippines apologizing for others and calling many of them bots.”
Author’s original post already received over 9,000 mostly “laugh” reactions, with over thousand shares and comments.
Many of recent comments came from Filipinos who were apologetic about mistake.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
Welcome to Philippines Tomas and Aida Capica
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 18.6k 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
Happy Birthday Jo God-Saves Lopez and Ulysses Lopez, more birthdays to come
“We will closely monitor market if there will be unreasonable increases,” Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa expects retail price of fish to increase between 15 to 30 percent with expected drop in consumption of pork during Holy Week.
At press conference, De Mesa gave assurance of enough fish supply with start of Holy Week on April 14.
De Mesa noted retail price of galunggong or round scad ranged between P200 and P340 per kilo.
Based also on monitoring of DA in Metro Manila markets, retail price of milkfish ranged between P150 and P250 per kilo; tilapia, between P120 and P180 per kilo; Indian mackerel, between P240 and P400 per kilo; sardines, between P100 and P220 per kilo; squid, between P360 and P480 per kilo and yellowfin tuna, between P190 and P360 per kilo.
Compliance with P45 maximum suggested retail price (SRP) for imported rice is now at 50 percent, according to De Mesa.
He said during inspection of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. at Mega Q-Mart in Quezon City, some retailers were even selling grains lower than P45 per kilo max SRP but some vendors still failed to comply.
Based on monitoring of DA in Metro Manila markets, retail price of imported special rice ranged between P55 and P60 per kilo; imported premium rice, between P44 and P55 per kilo; imported well-milled rice, P43 and P46 per kilo and imported regular milled rice, between P33 and P45 per kilo.
De Mesa said as of March 27, total rice imports totaled 800,000 metric tons.
At the same time, De Mesa said Tiu Laurel wants to maintain P45 per kilo max SRP so that farmgate price will not suffer with ongoing harvest.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
Welcome to Philippines Tomas and Aida Capica
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 18.5k 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
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Chueches, 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
Happy Birthday Jo God-Saves Lopez and Ulysses Lopez, more birthdays to come
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan
Ph team arrives in Myanmar for quake response, relief
By J.Lo
Philippine government has dispatched 91-member rescue and medical team on two-week humanitarian mission to assist Myanmar in medical and relief efforts In response to devastating magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck the.country.
First wave of responders, consisting of 58 personnel, departed from Pasay City early yesterday morning on two C-130 aircraft.
Team, led by Lt. Col. Erwen Diploma, includes volunteers from Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, Bureau of Fire Protection, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Department of Environment and Natural Resources and coordinators from Office of Civil Defense.
Aside from search-and-rescue personnel, Philippine Medical Assistance Team, specialized unit under Department of Health, has also been deployed to assist injured.
It consists of medical professionals from two hospitals: four from Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital and 32 from Eastern Visayas Medical Center.
Jose Lingad contingent includes engineer Troi Degras, physical therapist Leandrew Magistrado, administrative aide Albert Barnedo and nursing attendant Sophia Bacay.
Meanwhile, Eastern Visayas Medical Center’s contingent comprises doctors, nurses, medical technologists, pharmacists, midwives, nursing attendants, administrative, logistics and technical staff.
Equipped with essential search-and-rescue equipment and medical supplies, team is set to stay in Myanmar for 18 days to deliver health services such as acute medical care, life support, trauma management, mental health and psychosocial support services, rehabilitation and pharmaceutical provisions.
Team will also offer logistics and operations, aircraft security, aeromedical personnel, isolation facilities and medical referrals as needed.
Prior to team’s departure, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, Civil Defense Administrator Ariel Nepomuceno and PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura led send-off ceremony.
Remaining 33 members of rescue and medical team are scheduled to depart today.
Taytay, Palawan Bishop Broderick Pabillo has called on Filipinos to include in their prayers those affected by earthquake that struck Myanmar and nearby countries like Thailand. Also Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries Incorporated of Luzon Convention of Soouthern Baptist Churches vowed intercession for families of victims, said Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez for moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro.
Lopez emphasized gravity of the situation, “what happened to them could happen to us, so we must ensure our preparedness and readiness,we should also always pray that we would have strength, and that if calamity happens, we would be safe.”
Philippine embassy in Yangon reported no Filipinos have been rescued or located at the last known whereabouts of four missing following devastating earthquakes.
Embassy’s Composite Assistance to Nationals Team arrived in Mandalay on Monday evening and immediately met with Filipino community coordinators to assess situation and check on well-being of local Filipino community.
Team then proceeded to last known location of the four missing Filipinos, where they met with site supervisors leading search and rescue efforts.
On Sunday, Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo Jose de Vega said two of the four missing Filipinos both professionals are married couple who were residing in building that collapsed during earthquake.
Embassy also said despite ongoing search operations, there have been no confirmed reports of any Filipinos being rescued or found at the site.
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 18.5k 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
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Chueches, 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
Happy Birthday Jo God-Saves Lopez and Ulysses Lopez, more birthdays to come
“If prices spike again, we will implement max SRP,” Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said garlic and eggs could be imposed with maximum suggested retail price (SRP) to curb possible profiteering.
Tiu Laurel clarified that proposed measure is on hold as DA is focused on controlling rice and pork prices.
While garlic max SRP has been discussed, Tiu Laurel said proposal was shelved after prices dropped to around P100, down from peak of P160.
Philippines imports around 95 percent of its garlic supply.
Egg prices are also being monitored by DA.
Price fluctuations could be attributed to rising demand fueled by election spending and higher chicken mortality caused by soaring temperatures, Tiu Laurel said.
DA said egg prices ranged between P6 and P8, lower than P10 to P12 reported in some areas.
Max SRP of imported rice declined to P45 per kilo on March 31.
DA also set max SRP of P380 per kilo of pork belly and P350 per kilo of pork shoulder.
Speaker Martin Romualdez called for refinement of DA’s price monitoring system to ensure official data reflects market realities.
DA and Department of Trade and Industry should have unified mechanism to allow people to “see true picture of prices in the market,” he said.
DA data showed large white chicken eggs priced at P8 to P9 per piece, while wet markets sold eggs at P9 to P11 and some supermarkets priced it at P12, he noted.
Accurate real-time data is critical for effective policymaking and preserving the confidence of consumers nationwide, he said.
Integrating more direct input from local vendors and market operators could bridge gap between official figures and ground realities, Romualdez said.
“Prices of meat and poultry are also increasing because of issue of African swine fever, lack of storage facilities and heat of summer. This cannot be disregarded,” he said.
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 18.5k 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
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Chueches, 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
Happy Birthday Jo God-Saves Lopez and Ulysses Lopez, more birthdays to come
PM for any hospital discharge problem
76 NBI agents reclassified to boost quality of service
By J.Lo
“Reclassification of agents will provide more quality service to Filipino people, improve their performance in solution of crime, and raise bar of competency in the field of law enforcement,” National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jaime Santiago said reclassification of 76 NBI special investigators (SI) to investigation agents (IA) is expected to boost quality of service of the agency.
He said reclassification of agents from SI III (Salary Grade 18) to IA III (SG 22) is dream come true for 76 agents who have been “serving the Bureau with pride and honor for longest time.”
“Now that they are eligible for promotion, it is time for them to perform in order that they be promoted to higher positions,” he said.
Santiago added that reclassification is retroactive to July 1, 2024 in accordance with Section 3 of Republic Act No. 10867 or NBI Reorganization and Modernization Act.
“Accordingly, agents will receive back wages,” he said
The NBI chief thanked Civil Service Commission (CSC) and Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for their help and support.
He noted that under NBI Modernization law, once an SI retires, the item shall be considered dissolved.
“That’s the reason why I requested and pleaded that these SIs be reclassified to Agent III, and DBM and CSC approved request,” he said.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.5k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Chueches, 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
Happy Birthday Jo God-Saves Lopez and Ulysses Lopez, more birthdays to come
“We are requesting all building officials in LGUs to inspect their structures and to be strict and implement restrictions on construction of buildings to prevent vulnerabilities during this kind of disasters,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in following deadly earthquake in Myanmar, Malacañang has urged local government officials to inspect structures and ensure strict implementation of rules on infrastructure projects.
Castro said government considers this priority in preparation for any future calamity.
Castro also confirmed 141-member humanitarian team Philippines will send to Myanmar is tentatively scheduled to leave today.
Team, she said, includes emergency medical assistance personnel from Department of Health, along with urban search and rescue personnel from Bureau of Fire Protection, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and other agencies.
Similarly, Senate President Francis Escudero wanted “fresh inspection of public and private structures,” given country’s location in Pacific Ring of Fire.
“We must see to it that regular inspections are conducted on public infrastructure and on structures constructed by private sector, particularly office and residential buildings that have sprouted over past decades,” he said.
Country needs to catch up on its preparations to survive earthquake because as of now, it is certainly not ready, according to Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno.
“We cannot sugarcoat answer…we need to really catch up, because there are two levels of readiness…what we always see is second level, ‘duck, cover and hold…’ reaction in event of strong earthquake, first level, more important, is engineering solutions, our buildings, houses, structures, bridges are they strong enough to withstand an earthquake…we need to catch up the most,” he said.
Nepomuceno explained that “Big One” could hit Metro Manila, being near West Valley Fault System, but six other trenches cause frequent earthquakes in Abra, Bohol and Davao region.
According to Malacañang, contingency measures are in place in case “Big One” hits.
“We really cannot tell when it will happen…our government agencies are prepared for that…we had earthquake drill, fire drill and we have prepared ‘go’ bags,” Castro said at press briefing.
More than 1,700 persons have died while about 3,400 others were hurt in 7.7-magnitude earthquake tore into Myanmar and Thailand last Friday.
At least 33,000 people would die and more than 100,000 individuals would be injured should magnitude 7.2 earthquake hits Metro Manila, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) director Teresito Bacolcol said.
Bacolcol cited Metro Manila Earthquake Impact Reduction Study jointly conducted by Japan International Cooperation Agency, MMDA and Phivolcs in 2004 in case strong earthquake would occur because of movement of West Valley Fault.
“Casualties ,33,000 could still increase if 100,000 injured would not be given immediate medical attention,” Bacolcol said.
He added that worst earthquake in the country occurred on Aug. 16,1976 where at least 8,000 people died in earthquake brought by Cotabato Trench.
“It happened past midnight and it generated tsunami,” he noted.
He said that aside from Cotabato earthquake, at least 1,600 people died on July 16, 1990 following Luzon earthquake.
“Casualties would be because of collapse of buildings,” he said, referring to projected figures.
Bacolcol said while regular earthquake drills are important, buildings and houses should be earthquake resilient.
“Even if we practice duck, cover and hold, if buildings or houses are not earthquake resilient, it would still cause casualties…we have to follow minimum requirements of our building code to make sure our houses and buildings are resilient,” he added.
Bacolcol noted that there are at least 175 active fault segments in the Philippines, where some could generate strong earthquakes between magnitude 7.2 and 8.2.
Department of Foreign Affairs is expecting repatriation requests from Filipinos affected by earthquake in Myanmar.
DFA Undersecretary Eduardo Jose de Vega said Philippine embassy in Yangon is ready to help and repatriate Filipinos who will request to come home after they lost their jobs due to earthquake.
“Like what happened in Turkiye in 2023, if someone wants to come home, we will help them,” De Vega said.
DFA said four Filipinos in Myanmar are still missing following two powerful earthquakes.
De Vega said two of four Filipinos, professionals, are husband and wife residing in building that collapsed.
The embassy continues to conduct welfare checks on affected Filipinos and all embassy communication lines remain open to provide assistance and support.
Embassy was also preparing to deploy team in Mandalay for on-the-ground assessment and direct welfare checks on Filipinos in the area.
Arrangements were made to mobilize and distribute essential supplies and basic necessities to those in need, including possible evacuation routes for relocation or repatriation.
Meanwhile, Escudero emphasized need for Philippine embassies in Yangon and Bangkok to stay on top of the situation.
“Once dust has settled and rescue operations have concluded, we must have full accounting of Filipinos who may have been affected by earthquake and extend every possible assistance as necessary, including psychosocial support for survivors, we express our deepest sympathies and condolences to governments of Myanmar and Thailand and most especially to families who lost their loved ones to devastating earthquake…both countries have been gracious hosts to our OFWs over long period of time and as fellow members of ASEAN,Association of Southeast Asian Nations, we consider them as more than just neighbors, but part of our community of nations,” the Senate President said.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
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Supports Fire Prevention Month March
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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
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Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Chueches, 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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Myanmar shake death toll hits 1,600
By J.Lo
“It’s mainly been local volunteers, local people who are just trying to find their loved ones,” Yangon-based manager of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in Myanmar Cara Bragg said after bring briefed by her colleague in Mandalay smell of decaying bodies permeated streets of Myanmar’s second largest city, as people worked frantically by hand to clear rubble in hope of finding someone still alive, two days after massive earthquake struck killed more than 1,600 people and left countless others buried.
Magnitude 7.7 quake hit midday Friday with epicenter near Mandalay, bringing down scores of buildings and damaging other infrastructure like city’s airport.
Relief efforts have been hampered by buckled roads, downed bridges, spotty communications and the challenges of operating in a country in the midst of a civil war.
Search for survivors has been primarily conducted by local residents without aid of heavy equipment, moving rubble by hand and with shovels in 41-degree-Celsius heat, with only occasional tracked excavator to be seen.
A 5.1-magnitude aftershock Sunday afternoon prompted screams from those in streets, and then work continued.
Many of Mandalay’s 1.5 million people spent the night sleeping on streets, either left homeless by quake also shook neighboring Thailand and killed at least 17 people there or worried that continuing aftershocks might cause structures left unstable to collapse.
So far, 1,644 people have been reported killed in Myanmar and 3,408 missing, but many areas have not yet been reached, and many rescue efforts so far have been undertaken by people working by hand to try and clear rubble, said, Bragg.
“I’ve also seen reports that now some countries are sending search and rescue teams up to Mandalay to support efforts, but hospitals are really struggling to cope with influx of injured people, there’s shortage of medical supplies, and people are struggling to find food and clean water,” she added.
CRS was sending team by road to assess peoples’ most pressing needs so that it could target its own response.
With Mandalay airport damaged and control tower toppled in capital Naypitaw’s airport, all commercial flights into cities have been shut down.
Official relief efforts in Naypitaw were prioritizing government offices and staff housing, leaving locals and aid groups to dig through rubble by hand in residential areas, hot sun beating down and smell of death in the air.
Still, two Indian C-17 military transport aircraft were able to land late Saturday at Naypitaw with field hospital unit and some 120 personnel who were then to travel north to Mandalay to establish 60-bed emergency treatment center, according to the country’s Foreign Ministry. Other Indian supplies were flown into Yangon, Myanmar’s biggest city, been hub of other foreign relief efforts.
Convoy of 17 Chinese cargo trucks carrying critical shelter and medical supplies was expected to reach Mandalay, after making arduous journey by road from Yangon.
The 650-kilometer journey has been taking 14 hours or longer, with clogged roads and traffic diverted from main highway to skirt damage from earthquake.
At the same time, window of opportunity to find anyone alive is rapidly closing. Most rescues occur within first 24 hours after disaster, and then survival chances drop as each day passes.
Initial report on earthquake relief efforts issued Saturday by UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs noted severe damage or destruction of many health facilities, and warned “severe shortage of medical supplies is hampering response efforts, including trauma kits, blood bags, anesthetics, assistive devices, essential medicines, and tents for health workers.”
China has sent more than 135 rescue personnel and experts, along with supplies like medical kits and generators and pledged around $13.8 million in emergency aid. Russia’s Emergencies Ministry had flown in 120 rescuers and supplies to Yangon and country’s Health Ministry said Moscow had sent medical team to Myanmar.
Teams from Singapore have been working already in Naypitaw. Malaysia dispatched team of 50 personnel with trucks, search and rescue equipment and medical supplies. Thailand said 55 of its soldiers arrived in Yangon to help with search and rescue operations, while Britain announced $13 million aid package to help its locally funded partners, already in Myanmar, to respond to crisis.
Four Filipinos in Myanmar remain unaccounted for, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.
DFA migration affairs Undersecretary Eduardo Jose de Vega said two of the four Filipinos are husband and wife residing in building that collapsed.
“According to the latest details, four Filipinos are unaccounted for, two of those missing are married… their building of residence collapsed,Myanmar is asking for help from other countries…many have died,” De Vega said.
Philippine embassy in Thailand denied reports claiming that 10 Filipinos died in earthquake in Thailand, calling information false.
De Vega said no Filipinos were hurt in Thailand. “In Thailand, there are no Filipinos injured or killed,” he added.
Philippine embassy in Myanmar continues to conduct welfare checks on affected Filipinos, and all embassy communication lines remain open to provide assistance and support.
Embassy is also preparing to deploy team in Mandalay for on-the-ground assessment and direct welfare checks on Filipinos in the area. Arrangements are also being made to mobilize and distribute essential supplies and basic necessities to those in need, including possible evacuation routes for relocation or repatriation.
“Embassy urges everyone to remain vigilant for possible aftershocks…we also encourage continued communication with fellow Filipinos in your community to ensure each other’s safety,” embassy said in its advisory.
For emergencies, embassy can be reached through Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) hotline (+95 998 521 0991) or official Philippine Embassy in Myanmar Facebook Messenger.
Meanwhile, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) Director Teresito Bacolcol underscored need for disaster preparedness, saying there are at least 175 active fault segments in the Philippines with some capable of generating strong earthquakes between magnitude 7.2 and 8.2.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.5k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Chueches, 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
“Strategy of implementing EO 62 largely failed as importers and traders pocketed most of savings from tariff cuts instead of passing them on to consumers,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said to ensure retailers’ compliance, will lead market inspection in Quezon City today ,first day of effectivity of P45 per kilo maximum suggested retail price (SRP) on imported rice.
Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque, city officials and police will accompany Tiu Laurel during market visit.
Max SRP on imported rice started with P58 per kilo on Jan. 20, followed by P55 per kilo on Feb. 5, P52 per kilo on Feb. 15 and P49 per kilo on March 1.
Tiu Laurel was forced to implement max SRP on grains amid failure of Executive Order No. 62 to significantly bring down retail price. EO 62 lowered tariff on imported staple to 15 percent from previous 35 percent.
The agriculture secretary noted that retail price of imported rice already went down by P19 per kilo since its implementation as grains were sold for as high as P64 per kilo prior to max SRP.
According to him, global rice prices have dropped to their lowest levels in over two years, with some varieties now priced below $380 per metric ton.
Based on monitoring of DA in Metro Manila markets, retail price of imported special rice ranged between P55 and P60 per kilo; imported premium rice, between P48 and P51 per kilo; imported well milled rice, between P43 and P46 per kilo; and imported regular milled rice, between P33 and P45 per kilo.
Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) board chairman and former agriculture secretary Leonardo Montemayor has blamed unlimited entry of cheap imports as primary reason for drastic drop in palay prices during ongoing dry season harvest.
Montemayor noted that farmers are forced to sell freshly harvested palay for as low as P14 per kilo.
Rice imports in 2024 ballooned to 4.8 million metric tons.
“Palay traders are anticipating prices of imported rice will continue to fall, so they are playing safe by buying low from farmers,” Montemayor added.
Montemayor reiterated farmers’ groups call to return tariff rate to 35 percent, saying it will not unduly raise rice prices given downtrend in import prices.
Tariff Commission conducted hearing on March 28 to discuss petition to scrap EO 62.
At the same time, Montemayor asked DA to address drop in palay prices instead of belying reports of low prices and farmer suicides.
“It is sad that DA, instead of commiserating with plight of farmers, has blamed them for allegedly spreading fake news,” Montemayor said.
He challenged DA officials to go out of their air-conditioned offices and talk directly to rice farmers.
Montemayor criticized apparent unpreparedness of DA in helping farmers during current harvest, as evidenced by inability of National Food Authority (NFA) to absorb farmers’ crops due to congestion of agency’s warehouses, lack of drying and other post-harvest facilities, and limited procurement budget.
After rice, Tiu Laurel said high retail prices of chicken and eggs are next on his agenda.
“It’s normal that retail price of other commodities will increase because there is shift in markets…let’s say for pork, once there is increase, consumers will shift to chicken, fish… main cause but of course we are still studying,.. I am coordinating with United Broiler Raisers Association (UBRA),” he said.
Based on DA’s monitoring in Metro Manila markets, retail price of chicken has reached as high as P240 per kilo while retail price of eggs ranged between P7 and P9 per piece.
“I am looking at trends first but more or less, for pork and rice, retail price has already gone down…we are looking into it, we are coordinating with UBRA,” Tiu Laurel said.
Tiu Laurel said as early as January, he has been warning on possible increase in retail price of eggs.
He added that chicken layers were affected by diseases and hot temperatures.
“There is also big demand because of elections but we should be okay,” he noted,
Tiu Laurel said eggs would not reach P10 per piece as farmgate price ranged between P6 and P6.20 per piece.
Meanwhile, Watchdog group Bantay Bigas said government failed to address hunger in the country amid sharp increase in incidents of involuntary hunger in the past three months.
Bantay Bigas spokesperson Cathy Estavillo said latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey, said at least 27.2 percent of Filipino families or approximately 7.5 million households experienced involuntary hunger in the past three months, exposed government’s failure to ensure food security.
SWS said country’s hunger rate sharply increased this month, reaching its highest level since height of COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020.
“Government continues to opene agriculture to foreign control and depend on food importation, resulting in worsening lack of food security for people,” Estavillo said.
“Income of farmers is not enough to support their daily food requirement… cost of food has been increasing but wages of workers and farmers remained low… only shows economic and agriculture programs of Marcos government are not effective,” she added.
Estavillo pushed for urgent and decisive actions, including direct government support for farmers through production subsidies, higher farmgate prices and free irrigation.
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