Happy 21st anniversary, Servants of God in Jesus Christ Christian Ministries Incorporated, Rev. Nestor Sadim, Rev. Manuel Soliman, Director Jorge Lopez
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez
No to SOGIE bill
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Vaping brand for ‘misleading posts’ of full compliance
By J.Lo
For falsely claiming full compliance with regulations Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) flagged local vaping brand ,.
In statement, DTI clarified Apex Pacific Corp.’s vaping brand Flare does not hold valid Philippine Standard License, disqualifying it from being sold in Philippine market.
DTI said vaping brands with valid license are only: Don Bars, KLIQ, ONE Bar, Phantom Vape, RELX, Tomoro, TRUEZ, Vagend and X-Vape.
DTI urged FLARE to obtain maintain valid Philippine Standard License, certifying safety of its products for distribution and consumption.
Flare, along with three other vaping brands, was previously suspended following lawsuits by DTI for allegedly failing to meet packaging and health warning requirements under Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act.
DTI lifted preventive measure order on Flare on November 26. However, it clarified that vaping brand is still prohibited from selling their products until they obtain Philippine Standard License.
Despite not holding license, Flare’s social media posts have been promoting their products with captions claiming “100% compliance.”
This is case on their Facebook page, Flare PH, around 10,000 likes and 22,000 followers.
DTI stressed that these “misleading social media posts” of vape companies violate Republic Act 7394 or Consumer Act of the Philippines.
Article 110 of law prohibits dissemination of “false, deceptive, or misleading advertisements” due to risks they pose to consumers.
“Non-compliance will result in penalties or suspension of trading,” statement read.
Consumers Act stipulates that those responsible for false, deceptive, or misleading advertisements may face fine of P500 to P5,000, along with potential imprisonment for one to six months.
Department of Health has warned Filipino consumers that e-cigarettes and vape products are not safer alternative to smoking. In May 2024, 22-year-old became first Filipino to die from severe lung injury believed to be caused by daily vaping.
Happy 21st anniversary, Servants of God in Jesus Christ Christian Ministries Incorporated, Rev. Nestor Sadim, Rev. Manuel Soliman, Director Jorge Lopez
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez
No to SOGIE bill
PM for any hospital discharge problem
GT Capital sees spike with new Tamaraw model
By J.Lo
“It truly is game changer… we are confident that Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw will help propel TMP and GT Capital forward,” GT Capital Auto & Mobility Holdings Inc. chairman Vince Socco said GT Capital Holdings Inc., listed holding company of Ty Group, expects to get significant boost with introduction of the Next Generation Tamaraw by Toyota Motor Philippines.
TMP last week unveiled Next Generation Tamaraw in nationwide launch held in Metro Manila, Laguna, Pampanga, Cebu City, Davao City and Cagayan de Oro City.
GT Capital, joint venture partner of Toyota Motor Corp. and Mitsui & Co. Ltd. in TMP, regarded new model as “game changer” in Philippine automotive space.
Company is optimistic that Tamaraw will not only be valuable addition to its automotive arm’s diverse vehicle line-up, but will also help boost growth of the country’s local automotive sector and economy in general.
With Tamaraw being third model that is locally produced at TMP’s Santa Rosa factory, Socco said TMP and GT Capital would be able to enhance its contribution to nation building through increased employment, technology transfer and higher payments of taxes and duties to the government.
As of October, he said TMP has remitted almost P30 billion to government while sustaining almost 70,000 jobs for Filipinos directly and through its network of suppliers, dealers, affiliates and business partners.
Revival of iconic Tamaraw nameplate, new model is based on Toyota’s global international multi-purpose vehicle platform.
According to GT Capital, new TMP conversion factory in Sta. Rosa has capability to build three Tamaraw rear-body types , dropside, utility van and aluminum van with both gas and diesel engine options.
GT Capital added Philippines is only one of two production bases for IMV-0 or Tamaraw in Toyota’s global supply chain, other being Thailand.
“Next Generation Tamaraw sets new benchmark in Philippine automotive industry…with its numerous customization options, we expect this to make mobility solutions even more inclusive and accessible to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises from across wide range of industries,” Socco said.
Happy 21st anniversary, Servants of God in Jesus Christ Christian Ministries Incorporated, Rev. Nestor Sadim, Rev. Manuel Soliman, Director Jorge Lopez
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez
No to SOGIE bill
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Raining in Manila, Awit’s Record of the Year
By Cynthia Montojo
Lola Amour ‘s “Raining in Manila”, brassy earworm of song , was named Record of the Year at recent 37th Awit Awards.
This is Philippine Association of Music Industry (PARI)’s official event celebrating best sounds of previous year. It was held at Music Museum last Wednesday, Dec. 4.
Most deserving I say, about Raining in Manila, also named Song of the Year and Best Pop Recording of the Year. Tune certainly made traipsing through Manila’s usually flooded streets lark, instead of inconvenience it really is.
It also brought Lola Amour, talented but previously underrated band fame it also deserves.
Waiting Here Sa Pila, collab by Lola Amour and comedian Michael V won as Best Novelty Recording.
Meanwhile, Awit also reminded music lovers that there is no way Unique Salonga should not be counted out. Former IV of Spades may have been unusually quiet these past few months but he copped Album of the Year Awit for his pared-down, throwback effort titled Daisy.
Daisy is Unique’s third solo album after Grandma and Pangalan and features him experimenting with cheerful, simple sounds. Nice of him to get out of his usual dark moods. Not like Unique we know but still worthy of Awit’s top award.
Other Bests of the evening were:
Performance by a Solo Artist: Letting Go by Joey G.
Performance by a Group: Gento by SB19.
Performance by a New Solo Artist: Hawak Mo by Lyka Estrella.
Performance by a New Group: Pasabay by Uncle Bob’s Funky Seven Club.
Collaboration: Walang Pumapalakpak by Gloc-9 featuring Gary Valenciano.
Dance Electronic Recording: Gento by SB19.
Global Collaboration Recording: Come in Out of the Rain by Troy Laureta, Sheryn Regis and Wendy Moten.
Ballad Recording: Tapusin Na Natin ‘To by Juan Karlos featuring Paolo Benjamin.
Rock/Metal Recording: XXV by Greyhoundz featuring Gloc-9.
Alternative Recording: Ere by Juan Karlos.
Traditional Contemporary Folk Recording: Gabay by syd hartha.
Rap/Hip Hop Recording: Bad Type by Shanti Dope.
Jazz Recording: Tawid Bago Tingin by Debonair District.
Instrumental Recording: Beyond the Rizal Sky by Alvin Cornista.
World Music Recording: Luzviminda by Chocolate Factory.
Recording by a Child or for Children: Magmasid, Bayang Hinirang by Young Voices of the Philippines.
Regional Recording: Lubi Lubi by Faye Yupano and Project Yazz.
Christmas Recording: Isang Taong Lumipas by Ryan and Emmy Cayabyab with children Krina and Toma.
Original Soundtrack Recording: Sa Duyan ng Bayan (Sindihan Song inspired by “GomBurZa”) by Noel Cabangon, Ebe Dancel and Gloc-9.
Inspirational Recording: Seek First by Quest.
R&B Recording: Oksihina by Dionela.
Music Video: Josh Cullen, Wild Tonight.
Most Streamed Recording: Uhaw by Dilaw.
Music industry stalwarts Buddy de Vera, founder of Alpha Records, executive vice president of Universal Records Inc. and the late Danny Olivares of Grandeur Recording and who later managed PARI with able hand were this year’s Lifetime Achievement Awardees.
Happy 21st anniversary, Servants of God in Jesus Christ Christian Ministries Incorporated, Rev. Nestor Sadim, Rev. Manuel Soliman, Director Jorge Lopez
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez
No to SOGIE bill
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Gov’t to stick to white ships over warships in WPS — PCG
By J.Lo
“Gaya po nang sinabi ni ADG ,National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya, ang atin pong Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fisheries at whole-of-government approach ng ating gobyerno under President Bongbong Marcos will be not be deterred,” Philippine Coast Guard spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela said during a news forum in Quezon City Philippine government will prioritize deploying white ships over warships in West Philippine Sea as part of its peaceful, whole-of-government strategy to protect Filipino fishermen and assert country’s territorial rights.
Tarriela said government, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., will pursue peaceful approach amid increasing Chinese military activities in the area.
Even with limited resources, government assured public that it will continue protecting Filipino fishermen in West Philippine Sea.
“We’re still going to deploy our assets in West Philippine Sea at patuloy nating titindigan ang ating posisyon sa West Philippine Sea,” he stressed.
Tarriela explained use of white ships or non-combat vessels such as those operated by PCG, aligned with administration’s policy of being peace-loving nation.
PCG official also acknowledged while China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has been increasing its presence in the region, Philippines will maintain its peaceful approach.
He also said Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) could make policy recommendations to boost country’s stance in contested waters.
“So, it’s up to AFP leadership… commander-in-chief that decides whether we are going to modify our response in West Philippine Sea,” he said.
Statement came after several recent confrontations involving Chinese vessels.
On November 30, PLA Navy helicopters hovered over Filipino fishermen, prompting deployment of BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP Cape Engaño.
Days later, on December 4, China Coast Guard used water cannons against Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel assisting Filipino fishermen near disputed Scarborough Shoal.
In more alarming development, BRP Teresa Magbanua was shadowed by PLA Navy warship at distance of only 300 yards in Bajo de Masinloc.
Incident is first time PCG ship had encountered such close proximity to Chinese warship, prompting Philippines to file another diplomatic protest with China.
China claims almost entire South China Sea, setting aside rival claims from other countries including Philippines and international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.
Happy 21st anniversary, Servants of God in Jesus Christ Christian Ministries Incorporated, Rev. Nestor Sadim, Rev. Manuel Soliman, Director Jorge Lopez
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez
No to SOGIE bill
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Ph first, biggest health and wellness festival for teachers staged
By Creselda Canda-Lopez
“Our teachers play crucial role in shaping future of our nation…and they must be at their best for our youth,” Chaye Cabal-Revilla, Chairperson of GabayGuro, Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), and mWell President and CEO said “Gabay Guro’s Wellness Fest is vital first step in ensuring our teachers’ health and wellbeing taken care of. mWell makes sure that our teachers get access to holistic wellness program from doctor consultations, food and nutrition to preventive health solutions.”
Teachers play a vital role in instilling values, inspiring dreams, and laying foundation for brighter tomorrow. Taking care of our teachers is taking care of our children, too.
In celebration of its 17th anniversary, Gabay Guro held country’s first Health and Wellness Festival for Teachers, launching its new program pillar with mWell recently at Ynares Sports Complex in Pasig City.
Wellness Fest is new initiative that underscores importance of teachers’ holistic well-being, recognizing how vital mental and physical health are in enhancing educational success and empowering educators to thrive in their roles.
With theme “Teachers Inspiring Change, Building the Country’s Future,” Gabay Guro Wellness Fest not only entertained but also included new elements focused on teachers’ well-being. Event featured wearable wellness technology and gathered Lifestyle medicine doctors, fitness coaches, celebrity athletes in one big wellness festival for teachers.
Gabay Guro’s Health and Wellness Fest was staged in cooperation with mWell, country’s health and wellness mega app. Festival provided teachers access to free health consultations, fitness sessions, and wellness workshops. At the core of the wellness fest is holistic and preventive wellness. Beyond doctor consultation, event aims to empower teachers with health and wellness services from mWell readily available anytime, anywhere with just few taps on phone.
Central to event were also interactive discussions on mental health, stress management, nutrition, and self-care critical areas teachers often neglect due to high pressures of their profession. Additionally, attendees explored experiential booths focusing on fitness, food and nutrition, wearables, mind health, and telemedicine.
Fully integrated digital platform, mWell provides holistic wellness solutions for everyone. Mega app offers Mind Health Score personal compass for self-guided journey toward enhancing emotional, social, and cognitive well-being. Based on World Health Organization (WHO) Well-being Index, this feature provides insights into one’s current state of mind. Self-guided modules help boost self-awareness and foster empowerment, hope, and positivity through evidence-based techniques. It allows mWell users to learn more about ways to relax, reduce stress, and improve overall emotional balance at their own pace.
To complement Mind Health Score feature, mWellness Score provides overall physical health score daily. This enables users to monitor physical activity, step count, and sleep for long-term health. With its gamification feature, app users may join wellness challenges, check their rank in leaderboard, and monitor their progress. mWellness Score works best when paired with Wearables like mWell Watch and Rings. Lifestyle tips and programs on fitness, food and nutrition are also just tap away.
Most importantly, mWell provides innovations that make health and wellness accessible for everyone with its mWellness wearables ring and watch designed to empower everyone to take control of their health powered by holistic digital solution.
At the core of this initiative is mWell, provides accessible healthcare services from virtual consultations to telehealth options ensuring educators can receive care anytime, anywhere. PLDT Home’s partnership with mWell allows GabayGuro to offer digital-first solution to health and wellness, reinforcing its mission to bridge technology and well-being for educators nationwide.
Over the past 17 years, Gabay Guro has not only provided over 3,000 scholarships but has also built classrooms in underserved areas, enabling educators to teach in better-equipped environments. Through its digital tools and innovations, such as Gabay Guro Super App, teachers have access to resources that support continuous learning and career development.
With launch of Wellness Fest under its Health and Wellness pillar, Gabay Guro addresses teachers’ mental and physical health while demonstrating its commitment to supporting educators not just professionally but holistically.
Teachers were also treated to day of entertainment from celebrity guests Kevin Montellano, Teacher Georcelle and G Force, and Gabay Guro volunteer athletes Alas, PLDT High Speed Hitters, and Meralco Bolts. For more information on how to participate in Gabay Guro’s 2024 events, visit their official website or follow their social media pages.
Happy 21st anniversary, Servants of God in Jesus Christ Christian Ministries Incorporated, Rev. Nestor Sadim, Rev. Manuel Soliman, Director Jorge Lopez
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez
No to SOGIE bill
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Warship deployment in WPS up to FMJ
By J.Lo
“The President himself has full authority to decide on this but as far as PCG is concerned, we are going to support whatever decision AFP ,Armed Forces of the Philippines and our commander-in-chief will carry out,” Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesman for West Philippine Sea issue, said at news forum when asked if there is now need for deployment of Philippine Navy ships in the country’s territorial waters to counter China’s hostile moves at sea, usually targeting vessels from PCG and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
It’s up to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.to decide if he would allow deployment of warships in West Philippine Sea as foil to China’s growing aggressiveness in asserting its illegal territorial claim.
Tarriela sees no problem with use of gray ships, but clarified he is not making recommendation.
“All I am saying is that in terms of reciprocity, that can be policy option that can be carried out,” he said.
He maintained that as earlier pointed out by Marcos, Philippines is peace-loving nation that will never instigate war, especially with its neighbors.
He said it is up to AFP to bring up policy recommendations to Marcos, who as President is commander-in-chief of country’s armed forces.
Tarriela declined to discuss in detail PCG’s next move in the face of latest incident in West Philippine Sea last Wednesday when China coast guard and naval ships fired water cannons and rammed PCG and BFAR vessels in the vicinity of Panatag Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc.
Incident prompted Philippine authorities to file another diplomatic protest against Beijing.
He said that while Philippine Navy ships regularly conduct monitoring activities in the area, they don’t interfere in operations of Chinese vessels even if they are harassing Filipinos. “They don’t interfere with harassment of Chinese Coast Guard, Chinese Maritime Militia against Filipino fishermen and PCG and BFAR,” Tarriela pointed out.
Last time Philippine warship faced off with Chinese vessels was in 2012 in Panatag Shoal, when it tried to stop Chinese poachers from escaping with their loot of giant clams, baby sharks and endangered marine resources.
Standoff ensued when Chinese navy ship intervened to help poachers escape. Chinese have since maintained permanent presence in the shoal in violation of “gentleman’s agreement” both parties would leave area to end impasse.
Chinese ruse prompted administration of then president Benigno Aquino III to contest in 2013 China’s claim over Panatag Shoal and other land features within Philippine territorial waters before Permanent Court of Arbitration based in The Hague.
Arbitral court ruled in favor of Manila in July 2016 by invalidating China’s expansive claim and reaffirming Philippines’ own maritime entitlements.
Since Panatag standoff, Philippines has been deploying only civilian vessels from PCG and BFAR for patrol missions in West Philippine Sea in order not to escalate tensions.
“We were victim of Chinese propaganda that we are militarizing dispute,” Tarriela said.
On Friday, Philippines completed joint air and naval exercises with US and Japan in West Philippine Sea, without interference or disruption from Chinese.
AFP said this year’s 5th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) was completed successfully inside country’s exclusive economic zone under territorial jurisdiction of military’s Northern Luzon Command.
“None were monitored,” said Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Philippine Navy spokesman for WPS, when asked if any Chinese military and coast guard vessels were spotted during combined naval exercises.
The 5th MMCA came on heels of last Wednesday’s incident near Panatag Shoal involving Chinese warships and smaller PCG and BFAR vessels.
Col. Xerxes Trinidad, AFP public affairs office chief, said Philippine Navy’s BRP Andres Bonifacio and C-90 aircraft, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s Murasame-class destroyer JS Samidare and US Navy’s P-8A Poseidon from Patrol Squadron 47 participated in combined naval exercises.
He said activities included communications checks, subject matter expert exchange, pre-sail conference, photo exercise and division tactics, all showcased “enhanced interoperability and shared commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability.”
“Activity underscored collective commitment of three nations to strengthen regional and international cooperation in support of free and open Indo-Pacific,” Trinidad added.
Building on previous MMCAs and ongoing collaborative operations, AFP said exercise enhanced interoperability of defense doctrines, tactics, techniques and procedures among participating forces.
“Conducted in full compliance with international law, MMCA emphasized respect for safety of navigation and maritime rights of all states,” Trinidad said.
He explained 5th MMCA included range of coordinated operations designed to enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime capabilities.
“These drills emphasized collaborative defense strategies and reinforced commitment of participating forces to maintain regional security and stability, MMCA reaffirms partner nations’ dedication to working closely together to maintain security and stability in the region, promoting rules-based maritime order and enhancing regional cooperation,” he said.
Meanwhile, China has branded US and other countries that have voiced support for Philippines as “troublemakers.”
Spokesperson for Chinese embassy particularly slammed US Ambassador Marykay Carlson for allegedly making groundless accusations.
“United States and those allies are not parties to the issue of South China Sea and have no right to interfere in maritime disputes between China and the Philippines,” Chinese embassy said earlier.
“We urge these countries to earnestly respect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea, stop sowing discord and adding fuel to fire and stop being troublemakers for peace and stability in South China Sea,” Chinese embassy also said in statement.
It said Carlson “overlooked basic facts and made groundless accusations against China’s legitimate measures for protecting its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.”
“We firmly oppose and condemn her accusation,” it added.
“Huangyan Dao has always been China’s territory,” embassy spokesman said, referring to name assigned by Beijing for Panatag Shoal. “On Dec. 4, ignoring multiple warnings from China, Philippines sent Coast Guard and official vessels there in attempt to intrude into China’s territorial sea surrounding Huangyan Dao,” embassy claimed.
“China took necessary actions in response to protect our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in accordance with law… measures are justified, lawful, professional and restrained… China has also released on-site video,” statement said.
“PRC’s unlawful use of water cannons and dangerous maneuvers disrupted Philippine maritime operation on Dec. 4, putting lives at risk…we condemn these actions and stand with our likeminded Friends, Partners, Allies in support of Free and Open Indo-Pacific,” Carlson said in post on X.
Japan, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Australia, Sweden, France, Canada, Germany, Finland and Norway also issued statements expressing serious concern over the latest incident.
Happy 21st anniversary, Servants of God in Jesus Christ Christian Ministries Incorporated, Rev. Nestor Sadim, Rev. Manuel Soliman, Director Jorge Lopez
“Timeline will be challenging here if it goes to committee on justice… remaining nine session days is very tight….after it is referred to committee on justice, after that, there will be determination of its sufficiency in form,” Bukidnon Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores, vice chairman of the committee on justice of the House of Representatives told reporters with only nine session days left before Christmas break, lawmakers would have to work on tight schedule to process impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio.
Flores said they haven’t even received copies of impeachment complaints filed by Akbayan and civil society leaders and by Makabayan bloc.
He said there was no official referral yet from Office of the Speaker to committee on justice of impeachment complaints against Duterte.
“We just recently found out second impeachment complaint…there was no referral yet… has not been read before plenary yet…so, I think that is what they should do first…what I am aware of is that it has been already filed and endorsed by their members,” he said.
Flores explained in determination of substance of impeachment complaint, committee on justice would have to require respondent to file her answer within 10 days.
“So that alone is going to eat up a lot of days in remaining days of session of House,” he said.
He noted Makabayan bloc’s signature campaign for its impeachment complaint , second filed on sole basis of “betrayal of public trust.” He said bloc may have resorted to signature campaign in acknowledgment of limited time left for impeachment case to proceed.
“I think they are doing that because they are also aware of time limitations, number of days remaining where impeachment complaint that they filed can move,” Flores said.
He has not yet been asked for his signature by any member of the bloc comprising militant members of House.
“I haven’t received any request for signature nor any member of Makabayan bloc approached me to sign in effect… none of that sort, yet,” Flores said.
“I have to look at Articles of Impeachment first because I haven’t read the complaint of the Akbayan. In Makabayan’s, I know they mentioned only one ground but I don’t see the complaint yet, also,” he added.
Flores said the 10-day period for the respondent to answer complaint would include holidays. “It’s not session days… just 10 days to file their answer… includes holidays,” he pointed out.
House Secretary General Reginald Velasco earlier said his office would first wait for the filing of a third impeachment complaint before it transmits the first two complaints.we will just have one transmittal, so, we are on hold…we’re waiting,” Velasco said, claiming that other lawmakers had revealed plans to file or endorse new impeachment complaints against Duterte.
For House Assistant Majority Leader and Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre, limited time left for lawmakers to act on impeachment complaints should not discourage them from proceeding with the task, as it is part of their mandate.
“We have constitutional duty, and we’re bound by that mandate to act on all impeachment complaints filed with House,”, Acidre, also chairs the committee on overseas workers affairs, said.
Acidre described filing of impeachment complaints against Duterte in defiance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s appeal to allies in Congress as proof of public’s demand for accountability.
“Filing of impeachment complaint by civil society groups is just proof that people are looking for accountability from elected officials, especially in the case of the Vice President,” he said.
Acidre pointed out that development was in sync with House’s ongoing efforts to uphold accountability.
“You were witnesses in the investigations conducted in Congress, we prioritize search for accountability, this will be careful balancing act on the part of the leadership and the part of House,” he said.
Bataan Rep. Geraldine Roman is not eager to push through with impeachment proceedings, but acknowledged it’s mandate Congress should uphold.
“From my personal point of view, I’m not inclined to push for impeachment process because this is also call of the President…but from purely constitutional point of view, this is part of mandate of Congress,” Roman, committee on women and gender equality chairperson, said.
“When impeachment is filed, we have no choice but to process this complaint.”
Roman assured public that impeachment process would be conducted transparently and in line with rule of law.
“Rest assured whatever is the processing, deliberations, they will be transparent and they will follow to the letter,in everything, what we have to take in mind, for example, questions of whether it is correct in form and in substance, of course, we will listen all sides…due process will be followed,” she said.
Despite challenges, Roman underscored resolve of Congress to fulfill its constitutional duties. “Law must be followed…everyone is equal under the law,” Roman said.
Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, overall chairman of quad committee, said filing of impeachment complaints is likely to affect investigation of panel.
Barbers said committee may have to terminate its hearings on Philippine offshore and gaming operators.
But he said hearings on extrajudicial killings (EJKs) and on war on drugs of previous administration will continue on Dec.12.
“Impeachment against Vice President will affect our schedules…we are thinking of terminating our hearing on POGO… we will just focus on two issues, EJKs and drugs, I don’t think there is still need to invite the former president Duterte because the 13 hours of our meeting with him in the hearing basically revealed what we want to hear from him, little more than what he revealed or what he admitted in Senate; so, for me, those are sufficient,” Barbers said.
Quad comm would also be presenting to plenary its “progress report” on its investigation on EJKs, POGOs and drugs, he said.
Barbers said quad comm wants to squeeze more information from businessman Mark Taguba and other witnesses.
Barbers said they are still finalizing list of resource people they would invite to the next hearing.
Impeachment proceedings might also affect pending key measures at the Senate, according to Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian.
“In case this pushes through, this will be my first time in my political career that I will be judge, My view is, if this reaches the Senate for trial, a lot of priority measures will face delays or become second priority, because senators will focus on impeachment trial,” Gatchalian said.
“If I were a reelectionist, I would focus on campaigning to win elections instead of attending impeachment trial…that is what campaign period is for…so we should look at practical considerations here, While the impeachment can give free publicity, it is double-edged…what is important here is to study the case carefully, especially because this is political process,” Gatchalian said.
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III, for his part, vowed to be legal luminary instead of politician if and when he sits as impeachment judge.
“To be judge is no light matter, even for lawyer like me… makes us appreciate daily work of judge in court… political process…but I will look more at the law and evidence, we are independent from House…we should not preempt them and instead just relax,” Pimentel said.
Happy 21st anniversary, Servants of God in Jesus Christ Christian Ministries Incorporated, Rev. Nestor Sadim, Rev. Manuel Soliman, Director Jorge Lopez
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez
No to SOGIE bill
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Sara’s party for media, NBI probe day
By J.Lo
“Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio cordially invites you to OVP Year-end Thanksgiving Lunch for members of the media on Wednesday, December 11, 2024,” Vice President Sara Duterte is throwing party for media on the morning of Dec. 11, fueling speculation that she might not show up for probe set on the same date at National Bureau of Investigation.
NBI Director Jaime Santiago, learned of the “thanksgiving party” set by Duterte, reiterated with or without her, bureau would proceed with its investigation on alleged threats she issued against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza and Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Event is to start at 11 in the morning at OVP office in Mandaluyong City. Asked what action NBI would take if Duterte fails to appear on Dec. 11, Santiago said investigation would proceed.
“If she does not show up and fails to provide justifiable reason, we will proceed with investigation and refer case to prosecutor’s office…if the vice president falls ill or has more urgent official duties, we understand and respect that…but without valid reason, we will move forward and consider it as waiver of her right to explain her side on both incidents ,threats she allegedly made and those made against her,” Santiago said.
Santiago noted invitation to the vice president has two purposes: “to address alleged threats she made” against President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and Speaker Martin Romualdez “and threats against her.”
Duterte was initially scheduled to appear before NBI on Nov. 29 but begged off, citing last-minute changes in House quad-committee hearing.
If Duterte again provides justifiable reason for missing the Dec. 11 summon, Santiago said she would be given one more opportunity to appear.
“December 11 is the deadline…if she fails to appear without valid justification, we will move forward with our findings…even if there is justifiable reason this time, we will only provide one more chance, and it will be short period…we want this controversy resolved so that peace can be restored,” Santiago said.
Earlier, Duterte said her statement was “taken out of its logical context.”
In recent Facebook post, Duterte thanked Senators Imee Marcos, Ronald dela Rosa and Bong Go for extending assistance and support to OVP during recent “crisis.”
“Office of the Vice President thanks everyone who helped, supported and expressed solidarity with the office when it faced recent crisis and adversity,” the OVP said in statement.
The OVP, specifically acknowledged Marcos’ assistance in securing “order” from Department of the Interior and Local Government that allowed Duterte and Dela Rosa to stay with OVP Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez during latter’s week-long stay at Veterans Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City.
Lopez was cited in contempt by House panel over alleged interference in deliberations on confidential fund expenses of OVP and Department of Education. She was held at Batasang Pambansa complex on Nov. 22 but was ordered transferred to Correctional Institute for Women in Mandaluyong City before her confinement in the hospital.
Meanwhile, House Deputy Majority Leader Francisco Paolo Ortega urged Duterte to learn to forgive herself first so she can learn to forgive other people.
“If I were her, I will forgive myself first… when she forgives herself… she can now forgive others… Merry Christmas,” Ortega said.
Happy 21st anniversary, Servants of God in Jesus Christ Christian Ministries Incorporated, Rev. Nestor Sadim, Rev. Manuel Soliman, Director Jorge Lopez
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez
No to SOGIE bill
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Sedition, defamation vs Vloggers – NBI
By Nidz Godino
“I want to remind public, especially vloggers, that our right to freedom of expression is not absolute…it has limitations,” National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jaime Santiago said “if you are inciting to sedition or engaging in excessive defamation without any basis, we can investigate and file charges.”
Vloggers may face legal consequences if they issue statements that incite to sedition or “excessively” defame people without basis, Santiago said.
He also said people whose private online conversations are leaked to public may file cybercrime complaints.
Posting screenshots of private messages on social media to defame someone can be ground for cybercrime complaint, falling under Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, can be filed with NBI Cybercrime Division or Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group, he said.
“It depends on affected individual whose private conversations were made public if they want to hold accountable those who posted their private messages…it’s up to them, and they can file complaints,” Santiago said.
Santiago said NBI conducted multiple operations related to unauthorized posting of private messages, including those involving disputes over debts.
Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 penalizes offenses such as illegal access, data interference and online libel, among others.
Santiago’s comments came after NBI received letter on Wednesday from Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, who urged investigative agencies to take stance against cybercrimes.
Meanwhile, in 18-page decision penned by Associate Justice Mario Lopez, Supreme Court Second Division dismissed appeal filed by convict Eul Vincent Rodriguez who was convicted of qualified trafficking in persons under Republic Act 9208 or Anti-Trafficking of Persons Act of 2003.
“As chat logs and videos presented by Rodriguez were submitted as evidence to assess his criminal liability for qualified trafficking, his right to privacy was not violated,” Supreme Court (SC) ruled online chat logs and videos can be admitted as evidence in court without violating right to privacy, if used to determine whether crime has been committed.
Based on court records, Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force of Region 7 began investigating Rodriguez in 2013 after receiving tip from United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement of his activities related to offering nude shows, some involving minors, in exchange for money.
PO3 Jerry Gambi said Rodriguez used decoy account to communicate with Rodriguez across various online platforms. He also recorded their correspondence.
His initial investigation showed Rodriguez offered nude shows in exchange for money. One of the nude shows involved Rodriguez’s minor cousins, activity Gambi ordered stopped after having portion recorded.
Following this, entrapment operation was set wherein Gambi told Rodriguez that foreigner friend was staying at certain hotel. Rodriguez offered to have 14-year-old meet them at the hotel to do live nude show.
Rodriguez was arrested and charged after accepting marked money from foreigner who was also police confidential informant.
Regional trial court convicted Rodriguez and Court of Appeals affirmed decision. Rodriguez went to SC, saying pieces of evidence were inadmissible as these violated his data privacy.
But SC also upheld decision, saying videos and recordings of chat logs of Rodriguez’s conversations with Gambi can be admitted as evidence.
It said videos and chat logs were presented as evidence to show Rodriguez’s method of reaching out to foreigners through Skype or Facebook and offering minors for sexual exploitation.
Rodriguez was sentenced to life imprisonment and fined P2 million. He was also ordered to pay P600,000 in damages, with legal interest of six percent per annum from finality of judgment, until full payment.
DAO 2-2007.pdf
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