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18 Marso, 2025 Martes

Success Month March in iskup

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

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 18.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th  edition and  1.9k 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 

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Headlines

“My father gave yours hero’s burial”- Baste

By Nidz Godino

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“Marcos, you owe us  debt of gratitude…your father was given  hero’s burial by my father but you let my father go to jail,” Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte said at  gathering of supporters for  88th Araw ng Dabaw celebration President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.was being ungrateful for allowing  International Criminal Court to arrest and send former president Rodrigo Duerte to The Hague to face ICC trial for crimes against humanity.

Duterte’s son, reminded Marcos that it was the former president who allowed  elder Ferdinand Marcos to be buried in heroes’ cemetery.

The mayor said his father’s arrest has sparked outrage among  people.

Sebastian lamented how his father had to dodge criticisms and opposition to his decision to bury  elder Marcos at  Libingan ng mga Bayani.

He said  outpouring of support for his father was something the President would never experience.

Reacting to the mayor’s tirades, Malacañang said debt of gratitude must not stop  government from enforcing the law.

At  briefing  Palace press officer Claire Castro said  President had already expressed his gratitude to the former leader.

“As early as 2016, when President Marcos was still  senator – the President had already thanked  Supreme Court for ruling that his father should be buried at the heroes’ cemetery,” Castro said.

She said the President had already indicated that his “family will forever be thankful for this kind gesture” of the former president.

“But showing gratitude should not derail or betray the law and justice,” she said.

Asked about Mayor Duterte’s expletives at Marcos, Castro said the President is not onion-skinned.

Palace press official also appealed to Duterte supporters to remain calm and be discerning amid flurry of fake news.

“People of Davao are also Filipinos…of course, Palace and the President are concerned with what is happening in Davao…but our only request is for them to be calm and to know the truth,” Castro said.

She maintained government would not prevent supporters of the former president from joining gatherings to show him support.

“We will not stop them from expressing their feelings, as long as it will not go too far… and we can say that is sedition or inciting to sedition,” Castro said.

Palace official also chided Sen. Ronald dela Rosa for what she implied was  belated show of support for the former president.

Castro said Dela Rosa should have accompanied his former boss in Hong Kong despite getting information that they would be arrested there.

“If Dela Rosa really knew that there was no arrest warrant issued by  competent authority, he would have bravely accompanied former president Duterte and as a matter of fact, he should have gone to the Netherlands before Sen. Robin Padilla,” she said.

Dela Rosa, who served as chief of Philippine National Police during Duterte’s term, is widely acknowledged as  top enforcer of  former president’s brutal crackdown on illegal drugs known as Oplan Tokhang.

There were speculations that Dela Rosa and retired police chief Oscar Albayalde would be  next to receive arrest warrants from  ICC.

Castro also chided calls for  return of Duterte instead of his former spokesman Harry Roque.

“But it would be better if we challenged Roque to return to the country instead of bring home former president Duterte…maybe, it would be better for  people to shout, ‘bring home Roque,’” Castro said.

Roque surfaced at The Hague on March 14, ahead of  initial appearance of Duterte before  ICC. Roque left  Philippines following arrest order from Congress for contempt.

Meanwhile, Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.may have decided to raise  allowance of military personnel to appease some members who might be against  arrest of Duterte.

In  statement, ACT decried  Marcos administration’s decision to raise soldiers’ allowances while public school teachers’ salary hikes remain on hold despite  ongoing education crisis.

ACT finds unacceptable  administration decision to raise  allowances of military personnel to “secure their loyalty,” while teachers bear their poor working conditions, financial struggles and insufficient pay amid  rising cost of living.

“While  International Criminal Court’s arrest of Rodrigo Duterte is  step toward justice for his crimes against  Filipino people,  Marcos Jr. administration must not exploit military compensation as  tool to solidify its grip on power, using state funds to appease  armed forces while leaving  majority of government employees and ordinary workers to suffer in worsening economic conditions is unacceptable,” said ACT chairman Vladimer Quetua.

Marcos earlier signed Executive Order No. 84, s. 2025, which approved  P200 increase in  daily subsistence allowance of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) personnel, from P150 to P350.

ACT said public school teachers’ daily pay increase of P20 to P50 under Executive Order No. 64, covering 2024 to 2027, paled in comparison to AFP’s, calling it  “double standard.” 

iskup news-on-line daily

17 Marso, 2025 Lunes

Success Month March in iskup

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

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 18-1k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th  edition and  1.9k 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 

PM for any hospital discharge problem

SB19 packages for international fans attending Ph Arena concert

By Cynthia Montojo

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Fans  outside  Philippines who want to watch opening concert of  boy band P-pop group SB19 ‘s “Simula at Wakas” world tour is offering ticket packages.

SB19’s tour will kick off in  Philippine Arena on May 31, then the group will fly out to Taipei, North America, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, Australia, and Middle East.

General  selling of tickets begins on March 15, but SB19 surprised international fans with  series of Global Fan Packages: A (worth P51,990), B (worth P44,490), and C (P34,990).

All packages include exclusive merchandise, round-trip transportation from  hotel to the venue on concert day, hotel lounge access, P2,000 dining credits per package, 20% discount on food items, 15% on beverage items in all F&B outlets, and  special lane for concert merchandise.

A and B package holders will get 3-day-2-night (May 30 to June 1) stays in Novotel Manila Araneta City and buffet breakfast for two adults and two kids 15 years old and below at Food Exchange Manila. Package C holders will get stays over the same period in Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, as well as buffet breakfast for two adults and two kids (12 years old and below) at dining outlet Streats.

In terms of tickets, A package holders will get two random VIP Standing with Soundcheck tickets, while other two package holders will get two Lower Box A Premium tickets (either Section 106 or 110) each.

To purchase  packages, at least one participant must:

  • have  valid international passport
  • have an Overseas Workers Welfare Administration ID or  valid working permit/visa from another country
  • have  valid national ID from another country.

There are  limited number of packages. They do not include flights, visas, and airport transfers in the Philippines.

SB19, composed of Pablo, Josh, Justin, Ken and Stell, recently released “Dam,”  first single off the group’s extended play called “Simula at Wakas,” dropping on April 25.

iskup news-on-line daily

17 Marso, 2025 Lunes

Success Month March in iskup

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

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 18.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th  edition and  1.9k 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 

PM for any hospital discharge problem

KWC looks for Pinoy singers to represent Ph

By Cynthia Montojo

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Aspiring  singers to shine on global stage Karaoke World Championships (KWC) 2025 announces its search. 

Event  has catapulted numerous talents to international stardom, is now calling on all Filipino music enthusiasts to join quest for karaoke supremacy.

With  success stories of local champions like Jan Francis, who recently dazzled audiences at  KWC World Finals in Finland,  stage is set for  next big star to emerge.

Filipino singers have consistently made their mark on international music scene, inspiring generations with incredible talent and dedication. Renowned artists like Lea Salonga, Rachelle Ann Go, and Vanessa Hudgens have shown  world what Filipino talent is capable of. 

More recently, emerging artists such as Jan Francis have proven  Philippines continues to be  hotbed of musical talent. Jan Francis,  Grand Winner of  KWC Philippines 2024, not only impressed at  KWC World Finals in Finland but is now poised to launch his music career with his debut single, “You Are The One,” in partnership with  international music label.

Karaoke World Championships offer  unique platform for aspiring singers to gain international recognition. By participating in  KWC Philippines 2025, contestants can follow  footsteps of successful Filipino artists who have conquered  global music industry. This competition is not just about winning; it’s about  journey,  exposure, and  chance to connect with  global audience. Whether you’re  seasoned performer or  emerging artist, this is your moment to shine.

Pre-register now for  KWC Philippines 2025 at https://bit.ly/KWCPHPreReg and take  first step towards becoming  next karaoke champion. KWC PH will go around and search for champion all over  Philippines covering four key areas such as Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and Metro Manila from July to August 2025.  KWC PH Finals is set by mid of August, just right time to prepare for  November finals happening in Bangkok, Thailand. KWC is more than just  competition; it’s  stepping stone to  professional music career. 

Karaoke World Championships have also introduced  new category for songwriters. This exciting development opens doors for creative minds to showcase their original compositions on  global platform. Interested songwriters are invited to publicly upload  video performance of their original song on Facebook, tagging @KWCPinas and using  hashtag #KWCPH2025Songwriter. Winning  entry will be announced online and showcased at  KWC PH Grand Finals, providing  unique opportunity for songwriters to gain recognition and have their work performed live.

iskup news-on-line daily

16 Marso, 2025 Linggo

Success Month March in iskup

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

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 18.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th  edition and  1.9k 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 

PM for any hospital discharge problem

Headlines

“Relax, day of reckoning will come”-Du30

By Nidz Godino

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“So, he said, tell them  ‘just relax…there is end to everything… day of reckoning…’ so, that’s his message to all of you,” detained former president Rodrigo Duterte, through his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, reassured supporters that everything will be all right in the end.

Addressing Filipino supporters gathered outside  International Criminal Court (ICC) premises in The Hague, the Vice President  was able to visit her father at his detention facility  few hours before his initial appearance before ICC judges.

The Vice President said her father was calm and appeared well-rested, and even told her that he had plenty of time to sleep and watch television.

“He said, tell them, ‘as  Filipino, I never surrendered my country to foreigners…’ and he also said he never surrendered any Filipino citizen to foreigners…so, that’s his message and sentiments…he wanted all of you to remember that in all those years that he was in public service, he never surrendered our country, especially to foreign powers,” the Vice President said.

The younger Duterte said her father also reiterated that he is in good condition though he is missing Filipino food.

The Vice President assured supporters that she will meet them again on March 23, when they may plan for her father’s 80th birthday celebration on March 28.

Meanwhile,  younger Duterte again took  swipe at  Marcos administration over  alleged persecution of her family.

“My fear is, do we still have  country by 2028…because the way that we are going right now,  Philippines keeps on sinking and sinking,but let us put our trust in God…soon we will see that everything that is happening right now has its purpose,” the VP added.

Duterte remains open to  possibility of running for president in 2028 elections but her focus right now is to provide support to her father.

“Best thing that we can do is to move forward…we cannot turn back time and retract our votes for him,” Duterte said, referring to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“So, I ran and became Vice President…now they are after my father, president Duterte…but I am still the Vice President; that is their biggest problem right now…they would have to remove me from office in order to realize their goal to remain in their posts,” she added.

The younger Duterte is set to face  impeachment trial before  Senate in July.

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15 Marso, 2025 Sabado

Success Month March in iskup

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

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 18k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th  edition and  1.9k 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 

PM for any hospital discharge problem

Due process, witness rights ICC does differently

By Nidz Godino

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“Real challenge in explaining  ICC in the Philippines is that we tend to make it fit into familiar categories…from  outset, we must recognize that, in many ways, international criminal law is  class of itself,” retired International Criminal Court (ICC) Judge Raul Pangalangan said former President Rodrigo Duterte has begun his legal battle at ICC, facing  pre-trial proceeding over alleged crimes against humanity.

This hearing marks  start of  long legal battle in The Hague, era of reckoning for victims of Duterte’s brutal anti-drug campaign and other forms of state-sponsored violence during his regime.

Speaking at  UP College of Law’s Colloquium on International Criminal Court on March 14, Pangalangan zeroed in on some of  “unique elements” of  court’s criminal proceedings.

ICC and local courts follow distinct criminal procedures. While many Filipinos have decried  lack of due process for the former chief executive, international criminal law considers his apprehension fair.

Philippines had  primary authority to prosecute  crimes charged against Duterte. However, since no such investigation was initiated,  ICC took over his case,  involves offenses within its jurisdiction, including genocide, war crimes,  crime of aggression and crimes against humanity.

This dispels claims that Duterte was arbitrarily surrendered to  Hague-based court after his indictment.

“Wheels of justice will not move forward until  person is within  jurisdiction of  court… arrest is indispensable to that,” Pangalangan said.

International law takes different approach to arrests. Philippine courts require  valid criminal charge before issuing  warrant against  accused, while  ICC allows  warrant to precede  confirmation of charges.

History shows that even in  most significant criminal cases before court, accused have rarely questioned  legality of their arrest or  manner in which they were brought before  tribunal.

Courts typically require  presence of counsel for two main parties, prosecution and  defense.

In ICC, witnesses are also afforded legal representation, forming  third indispensable party in international criminal cases. Their testimonies are pivotal in establishing patterns of criminality in widespread and systematic violations against humanity.

Perpetrators themselves can also be witnesses, and their crucial role extends beyond proving  killings. They contribute to  broader goal of unraveling  chain of command, organizational structures, and  reward and incentive systems that drive  criminal machinery.

Political  climate surrounding  offense is likewise  important factor in these proceedings, as testified by overview witnesses.

Legal analysts examine all documentation to determine whether it meets criteria for crimes against humanity.

Considering  possible logistical difficulties,  ICC allows witnesses to testify via video conferencing software. In contrast, local courts generally require them to appear in person before  judge during litigation.

Most importantly, ICC grants extraordinary protection to witnesses through security arrangements, guarantees of anonymity, and psychological support recognizing their testimonies could pose great risks to their families and trigger trauma from  difficult period in their lives.

Duterte is first former Asian head of state to be indicted by ICC. His second hearing is set for Sept. 23, 2025, for  confirmation of charges. At this stage,  accused can challenge prosecution evidence and present his own. 

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15 Marso, 2025 Sabado

Success Month March in iskup

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

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 18k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th  edition and  1.9k 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 

PM for any hospital discharge problem

Headlines

Murder of at least 43 people in Davao and nationwide drug war

By J.Loimage.png

“We have before us registrar’s or registry’s report that says Mr. Duterte has been informed of his rights, including articles 66 and 67 of Rome Statute…and that he is aware of his rights and that he is also aware of charges against him,” Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc said International Criminal Court (ICC) formally presented charges to former President Rodrigo Duterte during his first court appearance Friday, March 14, saying he faces accusations of crimes against humanity for at least 43 killings  specifically 19 by  Davao Death Squad while he was Davao City mayor and 24 by police nationwide during his presidency.

Despite claims by Duterte’s legal counsel, Salvador Medialdea, about  former president’s poor health, presiding judge of ICC Pre-trial Chamber I explicitly stated  court’s doctor had examined Duterte and found him “fully mentally aware and fit.” Motoc also noted that while Duterte’s physical condition prevented in-person attendance, he was capable of participating via video link on Friday after giving written permission.

ICC’s initial appearance hearing for Duterte was  short proceeding that lasted less than 30 minutes and focused primarily on informing former president of specific charges against him, ensuring he understood his rights and setting  date for  next hearing.

Next  hearing is set for September 23, court will conduct  confirmation of charges hearing where Duterte can challenge prosecution’s charges against him. 

Duterte’s so-called “war on drugs” as Davao City mayor, and later, as president, has been subject of investigation by ICC since 2018. Official police figures report over 6,000 fatalities during anti-illegal drugs campaign when Duterte was president, yet human rights organizations believe true toll could reach as high as 30,000.

During  hearing, Duterte only spoke once: when he was asked to confirm his name and his birthdate. When he was initially asked about his date of birth, he appeared not to hear  question, prompting his Medialdea to request that it be repeated. 

While addressing  presiding judge, Duterte spoke with  noticeably shaky voice in direct contrast to his demeanor during  Facebook live video that was recorded before his arrival in The Hague. In this video, Duterte was able to speak in complete sentences with his characteristic pauses.  

After  formal reading of charges by  court officer, Motoc addressed  former president directly: “You have just heard  reading of  charges,  in accordance with  content of  arrest warrant you received. This means that you have been informed of  crimes you are accused.”

Charges  specifically state that court found “reasonable grounds to believe Mr. Duterte is criminally responsible pursuant to Article 25.3.A of Rome Statute as  alleged indirect co-perpetrator for  crime against humanity of murder.” 

ICC is alleging  Duterte is criminally responsible for two sets of killings: 

  • Murder of at least 19 persons, allegedly drug pushers or thieves, killed by members of the Davao Death Squad in various locations in or around Davao City, Philippines between 2011 and 2016
  • Murder of at least 24 persons, allegedly criminals, such as drug pushers or thieves or drug users, killed by or under the supervision of members of the Philippines law enforcement, sometimes with the assistance of persons who were not part of the police, at various locations in the Philippines between 2016 and 2019

Duterte attended hearing via video link from ICC detention facility, with  court accommodating his health condition by allowing him to remain seated. “I’m not going to ask you to stand up because I know your condition,” said Motoc, who was speaking in French but whose words were translated and delivered by  court interpreter.  

During his manifestation, Medialdea characterized Duterte’s transfer to The Hague as “extrajudicial rendition” and  “gross abuse of process.” Duterte’s counsel also told  court he has “not even been able to explain to Duterte what prosecution requested when seeking issuance of  arrest warrant.”

Medialdea also claimed he was only given an hour to speak with Duterte before  initial appearance hearing, and that as  result, Duterte cannot properly understand  charges against him or  nature of proceedings.

However, Motoc said that Duterte had already been informed of his rights under Articles 66 and 67 of the Rome Statute, ICC’s founding treaty  and was aware ofcharges against him. 

Same  report from  ICC registry also shows Duterte was “aware of warrant of arrest in  English language and that he is very well versed in the English language,” the chamber’s presiding judge added.

Motoc said Duterte will have ample opportunity to raise concerns about nature of his arrest and transfer leading up to confirmation hearing.  

“There will be  full procedure that will unfurl leading up to confirmation of charges that will enable Mr. Duterte to raise all  matters that you have just raised with regard to warrant of arrest, with regard to the crimes committed, with regard to  charges and any other matters associated with his arrest,” the judge said.

“And the matters of jurisdiction of court… you have  opportunity to do this throughout these proceedings leading up to actual confirmation of charges hearing,” she added.

Court  has also ordered prosecutor to begin disclosing evidence related to Duterte’s arrest with complete disclosure required within seven days. 

Medialdea also repeated his request to postpone hearing so he could discuss with Duterte  legal matters surrounding his case.

The court denied this request, Motoc said, because initial appearance  where accused will merely be read their rights and told of  charges against them “does not need much preparation.”

Earlier, Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio and other lawyers of her father attempted to postpone  initial appearance “to properly sit down with former president and discuss legal strategies since we haven’t talked to him yet.”

During  hearing,  court also informed Duterte of his rights “as  suspect of this court” for  proceedings ahead. 

This includes  right to  assistance of  “competent interpreter,”  right to have time and facilities necessary to prepare his defense, and the right to communicate freely and confidentially with  counsel of his choice.

Duterte was also told of his right to remain silent and that he “cannot be forced to testify against himself or to confess guilty.” He may also make statements in his defense without taking  oath.

Motoc said ICC prosecutor must also disclose to Duterte as soon as possible all  evidence at his disposal “shows or tends to show innocence or to mitigate guilt, or that could undermine  credibility of  evidence.”

“At  confirmation of charges hearing, you can contest  charges, challenge  evidence presented by  prosecutor, and present evidence, no trial if charges are not confirmed or if proceedings completed…you have  possibility to make  application for interim release pending trial,” Motoc said.

After all of Duterte’s rights were read, Motoc asked if Medialdea understood. He responded: “Yes, we’re listening, ma’am. We’re listening.” 

Motoc said  chamber would decide soon if it will allow victims of Duterte’s so-called war on drugs to participate in the trial.

“Chamber will also issue  decision on participation of victims who, according to  statute of  court and to the extent permitted by  chamber, are authorized to present their views and concerns at this stage of the proceedings,” Motoc said.

iskup news-on-line daily

14 March, 2025 Biyernes

Success Month March in iskup

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

Supports Fire Prevention 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 18k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th  edition and  1.9k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo

Deepest symphaty to the family of late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Jr. 

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PM for any hospital discharge problem

“Delubyo”sees  need to revisit Eddie Garcia Law

By Cynthia Montojo

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“Actually, gumagawa naman ng measures ang government natin to help film industry,” Sen. Bong Revilla Jr. informed public , “nakapag-pasa tayo ng Eddie Garcia Law…there were producers  reacted and said, they got affected after law was passed.

Bong, star in action movie “Ben Delubyo” is aware of  state of local films at the box office. Most releases do not fare well at the tills. Theatrical films do not make money and fail to recoup their expenses.

Government  has apparently not listed particularly strong support for  film industry. A film commission is needed to subsidize making good films to help  industry.

 “Dapat talaga, we should be more aware of  working hours of the people in  TV and film industry… I think we have to revisit the law and have  dialogue with  producers and actors…senior stars are hardly getting more projects lately…even child stars, nawawala na rin… does that mean we will never have another Niño Muhlach in the industry?”Bong cried.

“Niño started as a child actor and really became very popular…we do not normally see children on TV or  movies now… child stars are allowed to shoot for four hours and then they pack up…how can we develop another child star like Niño Muhlach again…we have to revisit the law and study it again carefully…we need  support of government or the film commission in  Eddie Garcia Law,”Bong stressed.

Bong said  government needs to augment funding for our film and TV industry. “Ang dami na namin sa senate to assist our film and TV industry, that’s one of our purposes  to help  industry para maibangon natin dahil dying industry na ‘yan…lahat nasa Netflix na, but if we can resurrect the industry, well and good… I remember there was  time, nawala ang action and nauso ang bold, but thankfully, bumalik ulit ang action…nabuhay ang industriya,” the senator said.  

Bong insisted that  experience of watching  film on big screen is really different from watching it inside your homes.

“Iba ang experience inside  movie houses, gagawa kami ng batas para ibaba ang bayad sa sinehan. ..to watch  movie these days, mahina ang P1,000, especially if your whole family will go…not all families can afford…only  rich ones,” he maintained.

He is also amenable to designating  venue for rated-R films, like Experimental Cinema of the Philippine (ECP) before.

Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) can also extend its focus and classify films in streaming platforms, not just on TV and  movies.

In 2019, when Bong launched his senatorial campaign anew, he did the popular “budots” dance that became viral and was copied by other candidates until now.

He got this remark, “Nag-budots lang si Bong Revilla, nanalo na.” Yet, Sen. Bong said he did not take that sitting down.

“Nag-trabaho ako,” he insisted. “Nag-perform ako…ipinakita ko sa tao na hindi lang budots ‘yun…hindi naman ako magaling mag-budots.

“Ang nag-boost lang sa akin nyan ay si Jolo Revilla,  urged, ‘Papa, sayaw ka.’ When we previously came out with my other TV ads, wala kaming masyadong reactions…when they made me dance  budots, nag-viral siya…all over the world, with billion views.

“Ang daming senatorial candidates ngayon…ang daming kandidato…puro superstars ang mga kasama ko ngayon… I don’t have to be complacent,” the reelectionist senator said of his campaign.

But he did not campaign all the way to Baguio last February after he went to Pampanga. Politicians were told not to show up in  Panagbenga Festival to avoid getting bashed.

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13 Marso, 2025 Huwebes

Success Month March in iskup

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

Supports Fire Prevention 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 18k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th  edition and  1.9k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo

PM for any hospital discharge problem

6 Senate bets, 34 party-lists to explain illegal campaign posters

By J.Lo

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“Mayroon pong anim na kandidato para pagka-senador at mahigit 34 pong partylist group ang napaldahan ng show cause orders,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) Spokesperson Rex Laudiangco said in an interview with state media program “Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon”  has issued show-cause orders to six senatorial candidates and 34 party-list groups, compelling them to explain their continued posting of illegal campaign materials.

Laudiangco said candidates in 2025 midterm elections have been warned against violating Fair Elections Act and Comelec Resolutions 10730 and 11111.

These measures prohibit posting of campaign materials in unauthorized areas such as trees, plants, footbridges, electric posts, plazas, parks, waiting sheds and school premises.

He added that they are awaiting responses to determine whether candidates and groups should be charged for violating election laws, as offense qualifies as  criminal case.

“Kasong kriminal po kasi ito na may pagkakakulong, isa hanggang anim na taong pagtanggal ng karapatan bumoto at perpetual disqualification to hold public office,” Laudiangco said.  

Aside from imprisonment and  possible fine of P10,000 for political parties involved, the Omnibus Election Code states that those found guilty will also be disqualified from holding public office, voting and running in elections.

Laudiangco said Comelec will review  explanations submitted to determine if cases will be filed against the violators.

“So, tinitingnan po namin iyong mga nagsumite na, tinitingnan namin ang kanilang dahilan at kung mayroon man pong basehan whether kakasuhan o hindi kakasuhan, ito po ay pagdidesisyunan ng komisyon,” he said. 

Since  campaign period began in February, Comelec has been actively removing illegal campaign posters, which are also required to be made of cloth, paper or cardboard not plastic.

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12 Marso, 2025 Miyerkules

Success Month March in iskup

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

Supports Fire Prevention 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 18k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th  edition and  1.9k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo

PM for any hospital discharge problem

SC justice ordered return of excess funds to PhilHealth

By Nidz Godino

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“We cannot close our eyes for the past years na hindi nabigay in benefits,” Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Kho said after his interpolation said P60 billion in excess funds transferred from  Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) to National Treasury should be returned to  state insurance provider.

During  third round of oral arguments on the petition challenging  transfer of PhilHealth’s excess funds, Kho argued  if PhilHealth cannot utilize its funds,  money should instead be allocated to increase contributors’ benefits.

He also criticized  government’s allocation practices, emphasizing that if taxes collected for PhilHealth are not fully transmitted,  remaining balance should be released.

 “So in that case maybe PhilHealth can already request the president to return the money, P60 billion that was transmitted to  government for unprogrammed funds, return that to PhilHealth…for PhilHealth to expand its benefits, hire more people to answer for  needs of  health of our people,” he added. 

He also questioned whether PhilHealth considers  taxes allocated by Congress for subsidies when making its budget requests.

“So therefore, when you come up with your budget request for subsidy, you don’t actually consider  taxes being collected  Congress passed for purposes of subsidy for indirect contributors?” Kho asked during his interpellation with Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo. 

Domingo then responded with: “Your honor, budget principles require that it’s needs-based… if we follow it based on  projected fund ceiling or availability, it might not match certain needs.”

In response, Kho expressed concern that PhilHealth was restricting its funding, suggesting that  state insurer was arbitrarily setting limits without considering  subsidies allocated by Congress through collected taxes.

“Now, when you request money for subsidy, are you saying you won’t take that into account…will you create your own formula… because you have limited understanding, there’s  limited need of our people for health,” Kho asked. 

According to Domingo, despite  transfer of excess funds to  National Treasury, PhilHealth’s ability to provide benefits remains secure.

“Your Honor, if it pleases  court, Section 58, sovereign guarantee, even without this maneuver of  P89.9 billion,  government can and always will increase  benefits,” Domingo said.  

The health assistant secretary cited Section 58 of  National Health Insurance Act,  ensures  financial viability of  National Health Insurance Program administered by PhilHealth.

Domingo also argued ongoing legal proceedings were crucial as they reinforced  “use-it-or-lose-it” principle, commonly applied to national government agencies to encourage fund utilization.

He emphasized that government-owned and controlled corporations such as PhilHealth do not operate under same incentive.

“If case is allowed to proceed, if transfer is allowed to proceed, it is use-it or lose-it signal, all national government agencies have, so that we will use our funds… GOCCs like PhilHealth do not have that signal,” he said.

Supreme Court previously issued  restraining order on Oct. 29, 2024, halting  transfer of  remaining P29.9 billion in unused PhilHealth funds.

Earlier transfers included P20 billion on May 10, P10 billion on August 21, and P30 billion on October 16, prompting several individuals to file petitions challenging  legality of  fund transfers.

 Oral  arguments for petitions will continue on April 29.