“CPP-NPA is almost spent force thanks to efforts of former president Rodrigo Duterte and security forces during his term as president,” former senator Panfilo Lacson said Central Committee of Communist Party of the Philippines declared two-day ceasefire to mark its 55th founding anniversary on Dec. 26.
CPP Central Committee ordered all units of New People’s Army (NPA) across the country to suspend tactical offensives at strike of first hour of Dec. 25 until clock ticks 23:59 on Dec. 26.
Two-day ceasefire aims to allow peasant masses and NPA units in their area to conduct assemblies, meetings or gatherings to celebrate party’s anniversary, look back at past achievements and pay tribute to all heroes and martyrs of Philippine revolution, CPP’s Central Committee information officer Marco Valbuena said.
This ceasefire declaration is also in solidarity with people’s traditional holiday celebrations, he added.
However, Valbuena noted, “in face of relentless offensives, state terrorism and fascist crimes of Armed Forces of the Philippines, all units of NPA are placed on high alert and must be vigilant and ready to act in self-defense to counter and frustrate hostile movement or actions of enemy units within scope of NPA’s guerrilla fronts and areas of operations.”
At strike of 1 a.m. on Dec. 27, Valbuena said, NPA rebels can resume immediately because “amid worsening economic crisis and intensifying oppression under Marcos regime, NPA must continue to carry out extensive and intensive guerrilla warfare to fight state terrorism and defend people’s democratic rights and interests.”
Lacson lauded Philippine National Police for not recommending ceasefire this Christmas with CPP and its armed wing NPA.
In statement, Lacson said government should not “squander its gains” by having Christmas ceasefire.
Former police chief said authorities should not give communists “breathing space to regroup and reconsolidate their strength to fight and overthrow” government their “only agenda in the first place.”
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FMJ meets Pinoy survivors of Hamas attacks on Israel
By Nidz Godino
“Well, at least you’re home, Merry Christmas…your experience was very difficult,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. told Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) Jimmy Pacheco and Camille Jesalva, survivors of Oct. 7 attack of Palestinian militant group Hamas in Israel epitomize true Filipino trait of remaining devoted to their duties in midst of danger.
FMJ welcomed Pacheco and Jesalva at Malacañang and expressed elation they returned home safely.
In post on his official Facebook account ,FMJ hailed Filipino survivors in Israel-Hamas conflict and assured them, along with other OFWs, of continued government’s support, especially those who are in challenging situations.
“In midst of Israel-Hamas conflict, Mr. Pacheco and Ms. Jesalva exemplified true Filipino spirit remaining devoted to their duties and filled with profound love for others, with their stories in our hearts, we pledge to stand by our modern-day heroes and ensure their safety in times of turmoil,” Chief Executive said.
Pacheco, caregiver in Israel, was held hostage by Hamas for 49 days and was one of two Filipinos captured by Palestinian militant group during their Oct. 7 rampage in southern Israel, resulted in death of more than 1,000 people.
He was among first batch of hostages released by Hamas on Nov. 24, in exchange for release of Palestinians from Israel prisons, as part of truce.
Pacheco returned to the Philippines on Dec. 18.
In statement Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Pacheco recounted attack to FMJ, of how their kibbutz was infiltrated by the group, who shot his Israeli ward to death.
He also told President about his ordeal while in captivity together with other Israelis, and how they moved from one tunnel to another to avoid Israeli troops amid heavy bombardment.
Pacheco was hailed for his loyalty, not leaving behind his 80-year-old ward who was killed by Hamas militants when they barged into their house.
“My ward was like father to me…that was why I consciously wanted to stay there,” Pacheco said with Sen. Francis Tolentino.
Hamas tortured him by firing their automatic weapons near his ear to scare and deafen him with gunshots, OFW recalled.
“On that day, I did not think I would still be alive because they murdered my ward right there in the room,” he said.
Pacheco survived eating meager ration of dates and water during his captivity in Gaza.
Jesalva, caregiver from Nueva Ecija, also gained admiration of Israelis after her story was publicized, according to PCO.
“Israeli public admired her courage, dedication and loyalty as she refused to leave her employer, 95-year-old patient Nitza Hefetz, during Hamas’ onslaught,” PCO said.
Jesalva and Hefetz were residing in Nirim Kibbutz on Gaza-Israel border, attacked by Hamas.
Several militants entered their home and robbed Jesalva of her money, meant for her planned vacation in the Philippines, PCO said.
They were later rescued by responding troops from Israel Defense Forces.
Also present during meeting were Department of Migrant Workers officer-in-charge Hans Leo Cacdac and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration director Arnel Ignacio.
FMJ urged repatriates to share their experience with fellow Filipinos through writing or video messages.
“All repatriates should tell their stories… write or video, tell your stories so people know what you went through,” FMJ said adding that Israelis love Filipinos.
Based on latest report, total of 413 OFWs from Israel have so far safely returned to the country since Hamas launched its attack on southern Israel in October.
Four Filipinos, three of them OFWs in Israel were killed during attack.
Back in his hometown in Sta. Ana, Cagayan after his repatriation, Pacheco plans to return to Israel this February to find work for his family, even though his wife Clarice asked him not to go.
“I need to. Besides, I’m still able,” Pacheco said.
16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
“In accordance with my constitutional mandate to ensure that laws are faithfully executed, I am obliged to veto DOJ-Office of the Secretary, Special Provision No. 1, ‘DOJ Revolving Fund,’ Volume I-A, page 1119, inasmuch as there is no law authorizes DOJ to establish revolving fund for purpose indicated therein,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said in his letter to Speaker Martin Romualdez and other House members dated Dec. 20, 2023 has vetoed sections of P5.768-trillion 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA), including allocation of revolving fund for Department of Justice (DOJ).
In statement, Presidential Communications Office said FMJ deleted from GAA budgetary item for DOJ-Office of the Secretary’s revolving fund.
“It may be emphasized that service fees sought to be charged and collected are to be imposed upon complaints and affidavits filed with National Prosecution Service, and petitions for review filed before DOJ, when, in fact, such pleadings are filed with said agencies by virtue of their jurisdiction vested by law,” FMJ said, referring to planned source of funding for scrapped item.
He said charges are clearly not from business-type activities within contemplation of General Provision on Revolving Funds in GAA, permits constitution of revolving fund from receipts derived from business-type activities of agencies to be utilized for operational expenses of such business-type activities.
Citing Supreme Court pronouncement, Chief Executive said “inappropriate provisions” are unconstitutional provisions and provisions intended to amend other laws, “because clearly these kind of laws have no place in appropriations bill.”
These are matters of general legislation more appropriately dealt with in separate enactments, he added.
FMJ also vetoed Section 38 under General Provisions on implementation of National Government’s Career Executive Service Development Program or NGCESDP.
He said section does not relate to any particular appropriation in 2024 GAA.
He noted Presidential Decree No. 336 dated Nov.14, 1973, amending Part I, Article IV, Sections 2 and 5 [G], of Integrated Reorganization Plan approved under Presidential Decree No. 1, dated Sept. 24, 1972, which is considered substantive law, created Career Executive Service Board (CESB).
He said PD 336 further delineated functions of CESB as governing body for Career Executive Service (CES) and Development Academy of the Philippines is tasked to prepare CES program appropriate and necessary for organization and operation of CES and, in consultation with CESB, initiate and continue to implement aforesaid program.
He said Section 8 (2), Chapter 2, Subtitle A, Title I, Book V of Executive Order No. 292, s. 1987 (Administrative Code of 1987) – also considered substantive law expressly prescribed entrance to third level career service position shall be prescribed by CESB.
FMJ signed GAA or Republic Act 11975 on Wednesday.
P5.768-trillion national budget is equivalent to 21.1 percent of country’s gross domestic product.
In speech during budget signing at Malacañang, FMJ said 2024 national appropriation is government’s “battle plan” to address poverty, illiteracy and challenges besetting food security, health, employment and national security.
Among sectors allowed greater allocation for next year are transportation, defense and education.
Budol shows bikini fig amid ‘convo’ scandal with Rob Gomez
By Cynthia Montojo
“Showbiz nga talaga…pag dedicated ka sa trabaho… gagawan ka ng issue…dati asa #wowowin gumawa ng issue na buntis daw ako,” beauty queen-comedienne Herlene Budol shared sexy image of her amid “convo”, conversation scandal with her co-actor Rob Gomez.
In her Twitter account, Herlene posted photo of her wearing blue bikini, showing her curves, seemingly dispelling rumors that she is pregnant, as insinuated in alleged leaked conversartions with Rob.
She only captioned it with heart emoji.
Rob recently posted on his social media account screenshot of alleged conversation between him and Herlene.
His alleged conversations with Herlene were said to be flirtatious, some even provocative.
Though post was taken down, several social media users managed to take screenshots circulated on Internet.
Herlene asked on Twitter why she’s being dragged into issue.
“Ngayon naman sa #MagandangDilag may issue uli na buntis ako uli…ano susunod…sa #BlackRider mabubuntis ako uli,” she added.
‘Aquaman 2’ still screens in cinemas during MMFF 2023
By Cynthia Montojo
“Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” , still showed in number of cinemas around Philippines, Warner Bros.’ latest blockbuster during theatrical runs of movies competing in 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).
Often during MMFF season begins Christmas Day, Philippine cinemas only screen eight films competing in the festival. 2023 edition will see 10 entries in competition.
These 10 films are “Becky & Badette,” “Broken Hearts Trip,” “Family of Two,” “Firefly,” “GomBurZa,” “Kampon,” “Mallari,” “Penduko,” “Rewind,” and “When I Met You In Tokyo.”
But this year from December 25 to January 7,2024, “Aquaman” sequel starring Jason Momoa wil continue screening in IMAX and 4DX theaters nationwide and Uptown Tempur Cinema in Taguig’s Uptown Mall.
MMFF 2023 films can still be seen in other regular, 3D, and 2D cinemas around the country.
In addition to continued screenings, “The Aquaman Tunnel Experience” in SM Mall of Asia remains open to public until end of the year.
“AI-crafted emails contain more polished, personalized messages that imitate writing style of humans… contain authentic looking visual cues trick victims into believing that they are reading official messages from their banks or organizations,” PLDT chief information security officer Angel Redoble said Integrated telco PLDT Inc. has reminded public to watch out for scams during Christmas season, as criminals use artificial intelligence (AI) to make their schemes more convincing.
In advisory, PLDT, together with its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc., warned against rise of AI-crafted scams that may look authentic to undiscerning eye.
Redoble said criminals are now employing AI in their operations given its capacity to emulate styles of different persons.
Citing study by cybersecurity group SoSafe, PLDT said some people are more likely to reveal their personal information to messages made with AI. As such, Redoble reminded subscribers to check sources of e-mails and texts they receive.
“Most important thing is to know who email is from, and remembering very basic rule of not talking to strangers can protect people from being victimized,” he stressed.
In November, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) warned public against unauthorized cash transfers, as transactions ballooned to record levels ahead of holiday season.
BSP said scammers are currently exploiting modus wherein they tell targets that someone is trying to gain access to their bank accounts.
Afterward, these scammers send malicious link where victims can supposedly fix issue. However, site is designed to harvest sensitive details that will be typed in there.
Generative AI like ChatGPT refers to applications that can make images, texts and videos based on stock data. For instance, ChatGPT can be prompted to pen advisories emulate writing style of certain company or group.
This is one of the reasons tech icons like Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak in March wrote petition to suspend further developments on generative AI to provide governments time to develop regulations.
PLDT, for its part, has adopted security measures that can detect different forms of cyberattacks, allowing it to block 17 billion attempts to open malicious links between January and November,2023.
KINATAY ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ang ilang bahagi ng 2024 General Appropriations Act na pagbabatayan ng paggasta ng pamahalaan sa papasok na taong 2024. Inalok ang inyong lingcod ni Bulacan for Emergency Telecommunication Association Incorporation, Bulacan Integrated Telecommunication Anti-Crime Group na lalong kilala bilang Bullet-Bitag Chairman Emiritus Ricardo Sta. Ana na makibahagi sa kanilang grupo at sa palagay ko’y wala namang masama roon. Pagbati sa kanilang bagong hanay ng mga opisyal na nagsipanumpa kay Bocaue Police Cpl. Reyes. Hindi sayang ang binhi ng Salita ng Dios na naipunla sa puso ng mga ka-bullet bitag at sa halip ay gagamitin iyon ng Dios para lubos silang makakilala sa Panginoon. Ang dalangin ng Komedya, magamit pa itong patuloy sa ikakikilala nila sa Dios. Gayundin sa ganang chairman na siya ring barangay administrator sa Binang First Bocaue, Bulacan na makapangaral doon minsan sa isang linggo. Kapangyarihan ho ng pangulong ibasura ang anumang nilalaman ng panukalang batas na sa palagay nito ay hindi makatutulong o taliwas sa probisyon ng Saligang Batas at iyon ang ginawa niya sa ilang bahagi ng panukalang pambansang gugulin 2024. Nawalan daw ng karapatan sa “due process” ang Sonshine Media Network International ni hirang na anak ng “dios” Apollo Quiboloy sa suspension nito makabagong taon. Rolex makagagawa ka naman ng angkop na paraan hindi iyon matuloy, para ano pang naging manananggol ka. Kaya lang aking mungkahi sa mga SMNI host, “tame your tounge”. Dalawang buwan na lang at Marked Men for Christ sa Baguio na. Pastor Saturnino Abraham, musta na ang pabahay sa mga Badjao ng Tacurong City? Jonathan Fernandez, muzta na, nagkakalimutan na tayo a. Problema ba, pag-usapan natin, ndgodino@yahoo.com.
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190k flu-like illnesses recorded
By J.Lo
“Reminders to everyone if you get symptoms, we recommend antigen testing as we no longer recommend RT-PCR because that’s too complicated,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa in recent televised interview said over 190,000 cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) have been recorded nationwide.
Based on latest Disease Surveillance Report of DOH, there were 193,148 influenza or flu-like cases from Jan. 1 to Nov. 25,2023.
Number is 50 percent higher than 128,386 ILI cases reported during the same period last year.
Top three regions recorded cases of influenza-like illness are Davao region with 27,411 cases; Northern Mindanao with 24,357, and Central Visayas with 23,470.
Meanwhile, regions recorded highest increase in cases when compared to last year are Zamboanga peninsula with 295 percent increase from 2,304 cases to 9,107, National Capital Region with 116 percent increase from 5,359 cases to 11,570, and Cordillera Administrative Region with 98 percent increase from 4,682 cases to 9,256.
Data from DOH’s Epidemiology Bureau also showed decrease in deaths caused by ILI from 485 (0.38 percent case fatality rate or CFR) in 2022 to 271 this year CFR of 0.14 percent.
Regions with most number of deaths are Davao with 103, Central Visayas with 45 and Caraga with 34.
ILI is defined as medical diagnosis of possible influenza or other illness causing set of common symptoms, include fever, shivering, chills, dry cough, loss of appetite, body aches and nausea, sneezing typically in connection with sudden onset of illness.
DOH advised those experiencing COVID-19 symptoms to undergo antigen tests and not RT-PCR.
He noted, “my recommendation is to isolate for about five days and probably have rapid antigen test days later and if positive, continue to wear mask even beyond five days even if you have required intermingling with other people.”
DOH chief stressed “continue to wear face masks because you can still have virus even after 10 days.”
RT-PCR is considered current gold standard to confirm SARS-CoV-2 infection while antigen rapid test for COVID-19 allows for quick detection and thus meant fast triaging of infected patients requiring isolation.
Herbosa said previous recommendations during time of pandemic, like wearing face mask if immunocompromised and staying at home if positive for COVID-19, still stand.
Health official said people should be concerned, not only with COVID-19, but all other respiratory illnesses.
“There are respiratory illnesses like influenza and other influenza-like illnesses…there is common cold, many people are testing and they turn out negative , turns out to be some other viral condition that causes colds,” he added.
Earlier, DOH said COVID-19 cases are not cause for concern anymore, especially for fully vaccinated individuals.
Herbosa advised public, especially members of vulnerable sector, to employ protective measures.
He said it is best to prevent getting sick with COVID-19 or other influenza-like illnesses.
“Our reminder is to employ hygienic practices…cough etiquette, cover your mouth and nose, wash hands regularly, choose outdoor parties, and, for those with comorbidities, wear your mask always,” added Herbosa.
“You have become crucial as in the past years as Philippines found itself in middle of geopolitical developments and tensions that could potentially cause regional insecurity or endanger people’s lives and livelihoods,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said with country “in the middle of geopolitical developments and tensions,” Armed Forces of the Philippines should enhance its partnerships and forge new alliances with foreign counterparts.
President Marcos thanked AFP on its 88th anniversary for being “force and voice of reason” in handling of geopolitical tensions sparked by Chinese provocations in Philippine waters.
“But despite many attempts of provocation, Philippines through AFP remains force and voice of reason, exemplifying responsible and dignified behavior in resolving issues in accordance with international law,” he stressed.
“Let us continue to explore so that we may forge new partnerships based on common goals, values and at the same time advancing national interest,” he added.
FMJ said Philippines has started pursuing new strategy to counter Chinese aggression, noting how current methods have yielded “very little progress.”
While government has not revealed yet its new diplomatic tact with Beijing, FMJ earlier said it would hinge on tapping existing and prospective alliances, including engaging its allied states to devise joint resolution defining their responsibilities in South China Sea.
“And so, we have, in my review, it’s time countries that feel they have involvement in this situation, we have to come up with paradigm shift,” FMJ said .
FMJ also urged AFP to remain “undeterred by actions stir tension.”
“I know our soldiers and troops espouse same values and principles and they remain undeterred by actions stir tension… AFP must continue to improve its readiness to effectively prevent and respond properly to current and emerging threats, this administration remains committed to supporting initiatives that would bolster our armed forces external defense capabilities,” he said.
FMJ also announced increase in monthly gratuity pay of Medal of Valor (MOV) holders in AFP.
While he did not mention figures, FMJ said amount would “adequately reward” current holders of MOV, who, upon receiving medal, are entitled to lifetime monthly gratuity pay.
“As recommended by Department of National Defense and AFP, we will also adequately reward existing MOV awardees increase of their lifetime monthly gratuity for displaying bravery and heroism in defending our freedom,” FMJ said.
Monthly gratuity pay of MOV awardees was last raised in 2016 by then-president Rodrigo Duterte, from P25,000 to P75,000.
FMJ said hike will “provide them with tangible and meaningful reward, highlighting our commitment to support and honor our war heroes.”
Considered highest military honor, MOV is awarded to military personnel for conspicuous acts of bravery or self-sacrifice above and beyond call of duty. There have been over 40 recipients of the medal.
In the same event, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. led granting of recognition to those who gave their “invaluable support” to military’s “Pagkakaisa” campaign.
In his message during awarding ceremony, flag-raising and interfaith prayer, Brawner urged military personnel, civilian employees and AFP partners to harness power of unity, strength and resilience he said is in every Filipino.
“It symbolizes history we carry, sacrifices of our ancestors, and dreams of tomorrow’s generations… I express my heartfelt gratitude to our awardees whose exceptional contributions have earned our utmost admiration…your commitment and support have played vital role in our achievements,” he said.
AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said stakeholders recognized were selected for their contributions to campaign, particularly their direct involvement in AFP objectives.
People’s organizations honored include former underground mass organizations of New People’s Army.
Among awardees were Winifredo Doblizo Jr., president of Sentrong Alyansa ng mga Mamamayan para sa Bayan, Jerwin Castigador of Kapatiran ng mga Dating Rebelde ng Palawan, Francis Lopez of Solid Indigenous New Adventures Guide, San Fernando City, La Union Mayor Hermenegildo Gualberto; and Myrna Mallari, Tarlac State University Board of Regents.
Also given Pagkakaisa Award were Johannes Bruwer, head of International Committee of the Red Cross Delegation to Philippines; Verlin Ruiz, former president of the Defense Press Corps of the Philippines; Renault Lao, CEO of Ornate Architectural Details and Design; Rogelio Buton Jr., officer-in-charge of Health Ministry of Davao Central Seventh Day Adventist Church; May Divino, Rotary Club District of Davao 3860 president; Basilan Gov. Hadjiman Haraman Salliman; Jay Ar Altuhanan Domino of Anlag-Ani Tapukanan Consumers Cooperative; Liezel Ann Culot of Community Integration Flex A, B 13; and Christina Dakendek, president of Samahang Nagkakaisa Tungo sa Bagong Pag-asa.
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