On the “suspension of VFA termination”
In an act of diplomatic acrobatics, the Philippine government yesterday announced it has notified the US of a six month “suspension of the termination” of the Visiting Forces Agreement, which can be further extended by another six months, which puts the abrogation of the military agreement on indefinite hold.
Communist Party of the Philippines
Unite to fight the fascist Anti-Terror Bill! Unite and oust the US-Duterte regime!
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) calls on the Filipino people to unite and fight the enactment of the fascist Anti-Terror Law. When enacted to law, it will further reinforce the tyrant Duterte’s martial law regime and aggrandize his military cabal—Delfin Lorenzana, Eduardo Año and Hermogenes Esperson—with even more powers to perpetuate their reign of terror in the name of “fighting terror.”
Communist Party of the Philippines
Hinggil sa pagpaparatsada ni Duterte at ng Kongreso sa Anti-Terror Bill
Mariing kinukondena ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines-Southern Tagalog (NDFP-ST) at ng rebolusyonaryong mamamayan ng rehiyon ang mabilis pa sa kidlat na pagtibay ng dalawang komite ng Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso sa Senate Bill 1083 o Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 Senate Bill 1083 o Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 upang amyendahan ang Human Security Act of 2007 (HSA 2007) at palitan ng mas mabagsik at mapanupil na bersyon.
Communist Party of the Philippines
18th SFC at 3rd MBLT, Huwag magatago sa likod ng mga sibilyan: Itigil ang paggamit sa mga sibilyan bilang human shield!
Ipinapaabot ng Bienvenido Vallever Command ang marudbdob na pakikidalamhati sa mga magulang, kaanak at kaibigan ni Jeferson Abella. Alam ng NPA Palawan na wala ni anumang salita o paliwanag ang maaaring makapagpabalik sa buhay ng kanilang nasawing kaanak.
Communist Party of the Philippines
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18 ex-rebels in Northern Samar acquire new skills
At least 18 former rebels in Northern Samar completed on Thursday the skills training program of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
Philippine News Agency
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Army flies NPA Leader’s Cadaver, turns it over to family
The cadaver of an NPA terrorist who was killed in an encounter last Sunday at Socorro, Oriental Mindoro was turned over to his parents on Wednesday.
Kalinaw News
Peace talks
Incidents/Operations
Army overruns CTG lair, seized high-powered firearms in Surigao del Norte
While responding to the local folks’ complaint about the CTG’s presence extorting money that caused fear among the residents, engaged the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) believed to be members of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) 16C, Guerilla Front 16 of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) in a 45-minute firefight which led the rebels to abandon their lair and withdraw towards the mountainous area of the said barangay.
Kalinaw News
Terror police checkpoint in Bukidnon struck by NPA
The New People’s Army in Bukidnon conducted armed actions to drive away operating troops of the police and military which have been terrorizing Lumad communities in the province.
Communist Party of the Philippines
Wounded NPA commander arrested in the hospital
Police in Caraga region reported Thursday the arrest of a wounded New People’s Army (NPA) commanding officer in a hospital in Tagum City, Davao del Norte.
Tempo
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Palace: Certification of anti-terror bill urgency does not assure approval
Malacañang assured the public that the certification of the Anti-Terrorism Bill as urgent does not guarantee that President Duterte will automatically sign the legislative enactment as it still has to be evaluated and ascertained to be compliant with the Constitution.
Manila Bulletin
House corrects nominal voting results for controversial Anti-Terror Bill due to ‘technical error’
A “technical error in the recording of electronic votes” led to the House of Representatives correcting the nominal voting results of the controversial Anti-Terror Bill.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Hours after anti-terror bill passes, vote explanations pour in
Legislators from the Visayas on Thursday (June 4) continued explaining their votes for and against the anti-terror measure passed by the House of Representatives on Wednesday (June 3) in a sign of the growing controversy that the proposed law now finds itself in.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Rep. Biazon explains ‘No’ vote to anti-terror bill
Muntinlupa City Rep. Rozzano Rufino Biazon on Thursday said that his decision to withdraw as co-author of the recently-passed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 was a “personal” one and that he was not swayed into making the decision.
Manila Bulletin
THE VOTE: The measure does not only countenance, but actually seeks to legitimize, acts that are clearly violative of our Constitution.
ep. Lawrence Fortun, 1st district of Agusan del Norte, explains via Zoom, his “No” vote to HB 6875 (the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020), at the House of Representatives’ session on 3 June 2020.
Mindanews
THE VOTE: Let us fight terrorism while upholding human rights and following due process
Malaybalay 2nd district Rep. Jonathan Keith Flore explains through a press statement on 04 June 2020, why he abstained from voting on HB 6875 (the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020), at the House of Representatives on 3 June 2020.
Mindanews
THE VOTE: Tutol ako sa terror bill sapagkat mahal ko ang aking bansa at ang aking mga mamamayan
Bayan Muna partylist Rep. Eufemia C. Cullamat, explains via Zoom, her “No” vote to HB 6875 (the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020) via Zoom, at the House of Representatives’ session on 3 June 2020
Mindanews
THE VOTE: If we use this bill against innocent individuals, we ourselves commit terrorism because we wantonly violate their constitutional rights
Surigao del Norte 2nd district Rep. Robert Ace S. Barbers explains via Zoom, his “Yes” vote to HB 6875 (the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020), at the House of Representatives on 3 June 2020
Mindanews
THE VOTE: I have to wait for a better proposal that can both prevent terrorism and protect our people from abuses
Rep. Yasser Alonto Balindong, 2nd district of Lanao del Sur, explains via Zoom, his “No” vote to HB 6875 (the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020) at the House of Representatives’ session on 3 June 2020
Mindanews
Mindanawon reps warn anti-terror bill won’t eradicate but exacerbate terrorism
The House of Representatives on Wednesday night passed House Bill 6875 or the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, with 173 voting yes, 31 voting no and 29 abstaining, even as Mindanawon representatives warned that draconian measures will not eradicate terrorism but exacerbate it.
Mindanews
AFP and PNP: Anti-terror bill protects country, people
The Philippine National Police regards the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 as an essential tool for the government to protect itself and the people from continuing threats of bombing and similar violent attacks both globally and in the country.
Manila Bulletin
Lacson: Anti-terror bill adheres to Bill of Rights
Senator Panfilo M. Lacson today said the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 aims to secure the Philippines and protect its people from domestic and foreign terrorists like the Abu Sayyaf and the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
Manila Bulletin
Some rights advocates invited to anti-terror bill hearings ‘didn’t show up’ — Lacson
Senator Panfilo Lacson on Thursday said several human-rights advocates invited to join discussions on the crafting of the anti-terror bill in the Senate did not show up in hearings conducted last year.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
‘Anti-terror bill protects people’ — Sen. Lacson
Senator Panfilo M. Lacson on Thursday moved to counter ‘’massive disinformation’’ against his Anti-Terror Bill by saying it is meant to protect the Filipino people as terrorism knows no timing or borders.
Manila Bulletin
Sotto hits back at Anti-Terrorism Act critics
Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Thursday hit back at the critics of the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act who questioned the timing of its passage in Congress.
Manila Bulletin
‘No’ vote of Pangilinan, Hontiveros in Anti-Terror Bill part of democracy – Lacson
Senator Panfilo M. Lacson is not taking it against his colleagues – opposition Senators Francis N. Pangilinan and Risa Hontiveros – for voting “no” to his Anti-Terror Bill (ATB) despite having accepted their amendments to the measure during his Senate public hearings.
Manila Bulletin
U.N. report raises concern over 'problematic' PH anti-terror bill
In a wide-ranging report on the human rights situation in the Philippines, the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Office expressed concern over the country's proposed anti-terrorism bill feared to crack down on Filipinos' basic rights.
Rappler, The New York Times
The Philippines’ Broad Anti-Terrorism Law Takes Aim at Dissent
The House of Representatives of the Philippines has passed anti-terrorism legislation that will grant the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte broad powers to expand what the United Nations has called a widespread campaign of suppressing dissent.
The Diplomat
Once enacted, new anti-terror law may be challenged before SC -Carpio
Once signed into law, the anti-terrorism bill may immediately be challenged before the Supreme Court, retired senior associate justice Antonio Carpio said Thursday.
GMA News, CNN Philippines
Makabayan bloc claims Rep. Biazon ‘swayed’ into opposing anti-terror bill
Bayan Muna Party-List Rep. Carlos Zarate believes he knows the real reason why Muntinlupa City Rep. Rozzano Rufino Biazon ultimately voted “no” to the Anti-Terrorism Bill despite being one of the its main authors and sponsors: the Makabayan bloc’s arguments convinced him to do so.
Manila Bulletin
‘Railroading’ of new anti-terror bill deplored
Labor group Partido Manggagawa (PM) said the railroading in Congress of the anti-terrorism bill manifested the Duterte administration’s misplaced priorities amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Manila Bulletin
Etta Rosales: Anti-Terror Bill ‘brings back’ Anti-Subversion Law of Marcos
Former Commission on Human Rights (CHR) chief and martial law survivor Etta Rosales believes that the proposed Anti-Terror Bill is reminiscent of the Anti-Subversion Law during the administration of late strongman President Ferdinand Marcos.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Fishermen join nationwide protest vs. ‘anti-terror bill’
A group of Filipino fishermen is has expressed opposition to the Anti-Terrorist Act amid fears that the proposed legislation could also result to the plundering of the nation’s marine resources.
Manila Bulletin
New anti-terror bill threatens environmental defenders, group claims
Sectoral groups on Thursday marched to the University of the Philippines campus in Diliman, Quezon City in protest against the passage of the Anti-Terrorism Bill.
Manila Bulletin
'This is not terrorism': Filipinos take to the streets after anti-terror bill hurdles Congress
Several sectoral and progressive groups continued its call to junk the anti-terrorism bill through simultaneous indignation protests held nationwide on Thursday, June 4.
Rappler
'Recovery, not repression': Groups hit passing of anti-terror bill
Several groups denounced the recent passing of the anti-terrorism bill in Congress, which many fear will be used to stifle dissent from government critics in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
Rappler
Anti-terrorism bill to kill unionism, says TUCP exec
Rep. Raymond Mendoza of the partylist group Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) voted against the passage of the controversial anti-terrorism bill.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MARAWI
SOUTHEAST ASIA AND THE WORLD
What Does COVID-19 Mean for Terrorism in Bangladesh?
Islamist militancy is not a new phenomenon in Bangladesh; rather it dates back to the early 1980s. Islamist militancy in Bangladesh, based on its evolution process and the range of activities involved, can be divided into six phases.
The Diplomat
Violence in the wake of protests was not terrorism
President Trump has named ANTIFA as the culprit behind the violence in American cities this past weekend. He has even threatened to have the group declared a "terrorist organization." His accusation has several problems.
The Hill
Jordan- Terrorism remains a security and ideological threat, says FM
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ayman Safadi, on Thursday, said terrorism is still a security and ideological threat, as ending the conflicts, environments of chaos and despair are required to defeat this scourge, simultaneous with the continued concerted international alliance against the terrorist group, ISIS, which has made great achievements in the war on terrorism.
MENAFN
Essential Geopolitics: Protests, Looting and Extremism
In this episode of the Essential Geopolitics podcast, Emily Donahue speaks with global security analyst Ben West about the impact of COVID-19 and the economic crisis on social protests about racial injustice.
Stratfor
Donald Trump should beware of an ISIS resurgence
Air strikes carried out recently by British and American warplanes against ISIS targets in northern Iraq are a timely reminder that the terror group is seeking to exploit the coronavirus pandemic to carry out attacks against the West and its allies.
The National UAE
Pompeo presses nations to fund ISIS fight despite budget crunch
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday (June 4) urged allies to step up funding to defeat the Islamic State movement despite a budget crunch after the devastation of the coronavirus pandemic. The United States and Italy led a meeting of 31 nations on fighting the extremists, held virtually due to precautions to stop the virus.
The Straits Times
'While Searching for Dead ISIS Fighters in Iraq, I Found Refuge in My Friends'
We are sitting in the heat outside Mosul. I rest a cigarette between my lips and roll down the rear passenger window. The sun is bearing down on my thighs. I stick to everything. The car is off. The only cool air comes from the lowered window. I light my cigarette. I hate the driver.
Newsweek
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BARMM
BTA's minority bloc files resolution supporting the Balik Probinsya program
As the Bangsamoro Parliament's session resumes on June 16, the minority bloc filed a resolution expressing the full support of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority for the Balik Probinsya program of the national government.
NDBC News
BARMM Board of Investments conducts onsite surveys to registered firms in the region
The Regional Board of Investments (BOI) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is currently conducting onsite visits to some registered firms in the region, as part of the Bangsamoro government’s move to assess the impact brought about by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Manila Bulletin
BTA’s Second Regular Session to opens June 16
THE second regular session of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) is set to open on Tuesday, June 16, 2020. This was agreed by the members of the BTA during the caucus meeting Tuesday, June 2, held at the government center of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in Cotabato City.
Sunstar Zamboanga
MAGUINDANAO AND COTABATO CITY
Cotabato City's 40-bed COVID-19 isolation facility opened
Officials launched Wednesday the city’s 40-bed COVID-19 isolation facility whose operation the city mayor’s office and the Department of Health-12 shall jointly oversee. Aristides Tan, regional director of DOH-12, told reporters the facility was built according to specifications of the health department.
NDBC News
NORTH COTABATO
LANAO PROVINCES
BASILAN
SULU
PH Army activates new logistics, support unit to back troops in war on terror in Sulu, Tawi-Tawi
A new Army unit has been activated on Thursday (June 4) to supervise logistical support for soldiers battling terrorists in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
TAWI-TAWI
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DRUGS
'Heavy-handed' focus on security threats, drugs led to serious rights violations in PH - UN body
The Philippine government's emphasis on addressing national security threats and illegal drugs has led to serious human rights violations, a report by the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights (UN rights office) said Thursday.
ABS-CBN News, GMA News
U.N. report: Documents suggest PH police planted guns in drug war ops
In an explosive report released on schedule amid the global coronavirus pandemic, the United Nations Human Rights Office said that Philippine police planted guns as evidence to support their "nanlaban (fought back)" narratives against drug suspects they killed in operations.
Rappler
Lucena police says 1 of 3 arrested in drug bust is SAP cash recipient
The arrest of one recipient of COVID-19 cash aid stood out in a police anti-drug achievement report announcing a successful buy-bust operation at the village of Ibabang Dupa in the city.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
PDEA-Davao agents 'at risk' for Covid-19
AN OFFICIAL of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agent (PDEA)-Davao expressed apprehension about the safety of its agents as its most operated areas in Davao City are classified as high-risk for coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
Sunstar Davao
Operations/ Incidents
Cops uncover shabu warehouse in Marilao, Bulacan; seize P5.14-B meth
Police officers on Thursday uncovered a drug warehouse in Marilao, Bulacan province and seized more than P5.14 billion worth of crystal meth or shabu.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
4 arrested in Cotabato City, Lanao Sur anti-narc operations
Four government “high-value targets” fell in separate drug entrapment operations here and in Lanao del Sur Wednesday.
NDBC News
Cop caught using motorcycle seized from a drug suspect
Authorities have arrested an anti-narcotics policeman assigned in Pasig City after he was caught riding the motorcycle owned by a drug suspect whom he arrested last year.
Manila Bulletin
Recovery and Rehabilitation
ILLICIT FIREARMS, EXPLOSIVES, AND AMMUNITION
CROSS-BORDER TRADING/ SMUGGLING/ COUNTERFEIT GOODS
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
KIDNAPPING
ILLEGAL GAMBLING
ILLICIT FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS/ EXTORTION
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Sarangani IP farmers receive OPV white corn seeds to grow in 150 hectares
Forty percent of Sarangani’s population is composed of indigenous tribes – the Blaan, Tboli, and Tagakaulo. A total of 210 Indigenous People (IP) beneficiaries received open-pollinated variety (OPV) white corn seeds from the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) during a month-long distribution in the 7 municipalities of the province.
Philippine Information Agency
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UN report highlights ‘serious human rights violations’ in PH
Widespread killing of drug suspects, arbitrary detentions, and vilification of any opposition against the government some of the findings that were highlighted in the new report on the Philippines made by the UN Human Rights Office.
Manila Bulletin
CHR encourages victims of abuse to report
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is strongly encouraging women and children who have experienced abuse of any kind to report these incidents in order to put a stop to violence against women (VAW).
Manila Bulletin
Twitter tapped in response to gender-based violence during lockdowns
To address the surge in gender-based violence globally as a result of lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and Women’s Care Center (WCC) are working with Twitter to respond to gender-based violence.
Manila Bulletin
How to be anti-racist: Speak out in your own circles
In light of the ongoing protests after the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor, some people say they want to become anti-racist.
CNN Philippines
Press Freedom/ Freedom of expression
Solon says dual citizenship ‘violates’ franchise grant
Having dual citizenship should be a prohibition in the ownership or management of any media entity in the country, the chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts said Thursday.
Manila Bulletin
Martial Law
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COVID-19
84 per cent say community quarantine measures ‘worth it’ — SWS
An overwhelming majority of Filipinos said that the imposition of community quarantine protocols to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) was effective, according to the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey.
Manila Bulletin
Cases
COVID-19 cases in PH breaches 20,000 mark
The coronavirus disease cases in the Philippines climbed above 20,000 on Thursday after the Department of Health (DOH) confirmed 634 new infections.
Manila Bulletin, Rappler
DOJ reports 222 PDL, 28 Bucor employees afflicted with COVID-19
More persons deprived of liberty (PDL) in prisons managed by the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) have been infected with the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed on Thursday, June 4.
Manila Bulletin
Department of Health
220 Filipinos participating in WHO clinical trials for COVID treatment
More than 200 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients in the country are now taking part in the clinical trials being led by the World Health Organization (WHO) in search for an effective treatment for COVID-19.
Manila Bulletin
Compensation is ready for distribution to healthcare workers who died or got sick from COVID-19
The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday, June 4, said that the budget for the compensation of healthcare workers who died or sickened with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is now ready for distribution.
Manila Bulletin
DOH: Funds for minor programs realigned for COVID-19 response
The Department of Health (DOH) said on Thursday, June 4, that it only realigned the budget of its "minor programs" to aid the government's COVID-19 response.
Rappler
Gov’t to expand targeted testing to include asymptomatic COVID-19 ‘carriers’
The government is aiming to further expand its targeted testing program to track down asymptomatic carriers of the coronavirus in Metro Manila and other densely populated areas.
Manila Bulletin
DOST looking for more sewers of reusable face masks
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is looking for more collaborators for its re-wearable, reusable, and washable face masks intended for frontliners.
Manila Bulletin
Drilon to DOH: ‘Hire contact tracers, not trolls’
Senate minority leader Franklin Drilon on Thursday reminded the Department of Health (DOH) the country is need of 130,000 contact tracers and not 130,00 trolls or political supporters.
Manila Bulletin
Solon cites PH participation in COVID-19 drug testing
As investigational drug Remdesivir showed positive results in the management of COVID 19, an administration lawmaker lauded the Department of Health (DOH) and the Inter-Agency Task Force on New and Infectious Diseases (IATF) for contributing to the discovery of the drug’s efficacy.
Manila Bulletin
IATF
Gov’t issues new guidelines for MGCQ areas
Not everyone will be allowed to leave their homes in areas under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) based on the revised government rules.
Manila Bulletin
More than 57,000 stranded people, those needing emergency travels issued with Travel Authority
More than 57,000 Travel Authority passes have been issued to locally stranded individuals (LSIs) and those in need of emergency travels since quarantine rules have been implemented, the Joint Task Force (JTF) COVID Shield disclosed on June 4, Thursday.
Manila Bulletin
CBCP welcomes IATF decision to allow religious services at 50 percent capacity in areas under MGCQ
An official of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines welcomed the decision of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) to allow churches in areas under a modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) to hold services at 50 percent capacity.
Manila Bulletin
Regions
31-year old OFW is 1st COVID-19 case of Nabunturan
A 31-year old overseas Filipino Worker, who returned from Manila via a sweeper flight through the national government’s Balik Probinsya Program on May 26, is the first case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) case of Nabunturan town in Davao de Oro, and the third in the province.
Mindanews
Tacloban village placed under lockdown due to 1st COVID-19 case
Mayor Alfred Romualdez has placed a village here under lockdown after the city registered its first case of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Philippine Daily Inquirer
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Travel pass not needed within Metro Manila –DILG
Crossing borders in Metro Manila is allowed under the general community quarantine (GCQ), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said.
Manila Bulletin
Modified number coding in NCR starting June 8
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced Thursday that it will start implementing the modified number coding scheme in the National Capital Region (NCR) starting Monday, June 8.
Manila Bulletin
Dabawenyos happy with city’s Covid-19 response
A SURVEY by the University of Mindanao-Institute of Popular Opinion (UM-IPO) showed that Dabawenyos are satisfied with how the Davao City Government is handling the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.
Sunstar Davao
GenSan to start operating COVID-19 testing by 3rd week of June
The city government is targeting to finally operate its testing center for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in two weeks or by the third week of the month.
Mindanews
Cebu province allows motorcycle backriding while under GCQ
Backriding in private motorcyles, a staple mode of transportation in the provinces, will soon be allowed despite the prevailing general community quarantine (GCQ) in Cebu province.
Rappler
Covid-19 severely affects 10,000 biz in Davao Region
SINCE the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic hit Davao Region, operations of more than 10,000 establishments in the region were severely affected, the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) revealed.
Sunstar Davao
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Diplomatic, Development and Private Sector
Children’s group launches program to help bridge gap in learning amid COVID-19
Recognizing the need for education and learning continuity even during emergencies, a child rights launched a program which aims to help children from low income families and those with disabilities to access alternative learning platforms amid the COVID-19 crisis.
Manila Bulletin
Incidents and Violations
NBI files raps vs cop for killing Marawi war veteran
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Thursday, June 4, filed charges against Police Master Sergeant Daniel Florendo for the killing of retired Army Corporal Winston Ragos.
Manila Bulletin
Editorial, Analysis, Opinion and Features
World
Spike in Malaysia virus cases as migrants are infected
Malaysia reported 277 coronavirus cases Thursday, June 4, its biggest daily increase, due to a growing outbreak at a migrant detention center, sparking accusations the government is failing to protect foreign workers.
Rappler
Prince Charles spurred to action after bout with virus
Britain's Prince Charles spoke of his experience of coronavirus, saying he was fortunate to have only mild symptoms and that he hopes the pandemic will refocus efforts on the environment.
Rappler
Pandemic hits poorest hardest as India, Pakistan cases jump
The United Nations and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement are urging that governments and others unite in developing a “people’s vaccine” to protect everyone against the coronavirus.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Pay health workers’ compensations until June 9 — Duterte
A frustrated President Duterte has given concerned government agencies until Tuesday next week, June 9, to release the compensation intended for medical frontliners who contracted COVID-19 and the family of healthcare workers who died from the virus.
Manila Bulletin
Duterte may no longer call for special session as Congress assures enactment of new Bayanihan law
President Duterte may no longer call for a special session of Congress to pass the proposed Bayanihan measure that aims to boost the government’s response, a Palace official said Thursday.
Manila Bulletin
Duterte borrows another $500 million from World Bank for coronavirus
The Philippines signed another $500-million (P25-billion) loan deal with the World Bank to support poor households and small businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Rappler
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No change in Duterte’s decision, VFA termination only suspended — Roque
President Duterte has not changed his mind on the termination of the country’s visiting forces agreement (VFA) with the United States, Malacañang said Thursday.
Manila Bulletin
ANALYSIS: Reading between the lines of Duterte’s VFA half a turnaround
Was all of President Duterte’s kicking and cursing about the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) in February – to borrow from the Bard –really just all bluster, “told by an idiot/ full of sound and fury,/Signifying nothing”?
ABS-CBN News
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Gov’t eyes 3rd round of cash aid for jeepney drivers
The government is studying the possibility of giving another round of cash assistance to jeepney drivers displaced by the COVID-19 general community quarantine (GCQ), Malacañang said.
Manila Bulletin
Palace: Sidecars to be allowed in national roads; more bus routes opened
Malacañang announced that sidecars will now be allowed in national roads and highways to make up for the limited operations of public transportation in areas under the General and Modified General Community Quarantine (GCQ and MGCQ).
Manila Bulletin
Oops! Palace clarifies tricycles still banned on national highways
Malacañang on Thursday retracted its earlier statement and clarified that tricycles remain prohibited along national highways.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
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Bill allowing class opening after August now up for Duterte’s signature
All basic education schools may soon be allowed to start classes beyond August after the bill giving the President the power to authorize this hurdled the Congress.
Rappler
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
ELECTION RELATED
DISASTER
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
JUDICIARY
80 more trial court stations to hold hearings via video conference
Eighty more trial court stations in the country have been authorized to pilot test hearings of civil and criminal cases via video conferencing. This is to expedite resolution of cases at this time when physical access to courts is still restricted, mass gatherings are prohibited, and social distancing is strictly enforced.
Manila Bulletin
IBP employees permitted to camp out at national office
Employees of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) national office in Pasig City have been allowed to stay at their respective offices for an entire week. This is to avoid travel and risk of getting the deadly 2019 novel coronavirus disease.
Manila Bulletin
LEGISLATIVE
Senate of the Philippines
Senators push for release of compensation to deceased health workers who fought COVID-19
The Senate moved to expedite the release of the compensation for health workers who died or were infected with COVID-19 under the proposed “Bayanihan to Recover as One” law, or Bayanihan 2, which it approved on second reading Wednesday.
Manila Bulletin
Go urges compensation to health workers who died fighting COVID-19
Senator Christopher Go today called on concerned agencies to immediately remedy and release the rightful compensation for the country’s health workers who have died of or have been infected by coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as mandated by law.
Manila Bulletin
Senate allots funds for protected bike lanes, sidewalks
The Senate has allocated funds for the construction of protected bike lanes and sidewalks while the country continues to respond to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Manila Bulletin
Repeal punitive provisions of Bayanihan 1– De Lima
Detained Senator Leila de Lima on Thursday welcomed moves to repeal the punitive provisions under the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act which she said are being used by the Duterte administration against its critics.
Manila Bulletin
House of Representatives
House approves P1.31-trillion stimulus package
The House of Representatives on Thursday, June 4, passed on third and final reading the proposed Accelerated Recover and Investments Stimulus for the Economy of the Philippines or ARISE Philippines Act that will earmark P1.31 trillion in a bid to jumpstart the economy that has been badly damaged by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
Manila Bulletin
House OKs on 2nd reading bill on post-pandemic ‘better normal’
The bill seeking to make several health and and safety measures mandatory in post-pandemic Philippines is one step closer from passage in the House of Representatives.
Rappler
House trade panel moves to update Warehouse Receipts Law
It is among the duties of solons to update antiquated laws so they may be attuned to the times. The century-old Warehouse Receipts Law is one of them.
Manila Bulletin
Garin seeks ‘better benefits’ for all frontline health workers
Iloilo 1st district Rep. Janette Garin wants to provide all frontline health workers a package of benefits, to incentivize their valuable contribution in the country’s fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Manila Bulletin
Solon proposes moratorium on tuition increases
Kabataan partylist Rep. Sarah Jane Elago has called on the Department of Education (DepEd) to consider recommending to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) the imposition of moratorium on tuition and other fee increases for the upcoming school year to provide financial relief to the families of private school learners who are seen to transfer to public schools as a result of the economic downturn.
Manila Bulletin
Bill filed to help workers who develop mental illness
Bohol 1st district Rep. Edgar Chatto is seeking to grant “immediate” compensation or any special financial assistance to state and private workers should they sustain temporary or permanent mental disability in the performance of their duty.
Manila Bulletin
Environmental emergency and climate justice resolutions clear House special panel
The House Special Committee on Climate Change approved on Thursday, June 4, twin resolutions seeking to declare a climate and environmental emergency, and placing climate urgency at the center of all policy-decision making from a local to national level.
Manila Bulletin
LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS (LGUs)
LGUs should maximize COVID-19 testing –Gordon
Local government units (LGUs) will have to force their constituents to undergo tests if the country wants to achieve within a year the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation to have 13 percent of the population tested for the coronavirus 2019, Senator Richard Gordon said on June 4.
Manila Bulletin
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Immigration offices back at old spaces at NAIA Terminal 3
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced Thursday that the main offices of its operating units at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) have returned to their original workplaces at Terminal 3 building.
Manila Bulletin
DEFENSE AND SECURITY
Expert believes PH and US reached a compromise over VFA
A maritime law expert expressed belief that the Philippines and the US may have reached a compromise in relation to the suspension of the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), part of it may have something to do with rising tensions over the South China Sea.
Manila Bulletin
Armed Forces of the Philippines
AFP western Mindanao commander welcomes abrogation of VFA suspension
Approximately 200 American soldiers will remain in western Mindanao as President Duterte approved the suspension of the abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) which he himself had ordered earlier following the cancellation of the US visa of his former national police chief.
Manila Bulletin
Philippine National Police
Manila cop sued over alleged rape of intern
Rape and induced abortion complaints have been filed against a police officer assigned in Sta. Cruz, Manila, for allegedly abusing a female criminology student who applied for an internship, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said Thursday.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
BUDGET, FINANCE, and TAXATION
P2.4B already released by DBM for COVID-19 spending from calamity funds
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has already released P2.4 billion from this year’s calamity funds for COVID-19 expenses.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
BIR urges taxpayers: use online facilities
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) asked yesterday taxpayers to avail of its online facilities in filing the 2019 income tax returns (ITRs) and paying the corresponding taxes to avoid crowds of filers rushing to beat the June 15 deadline, thus escaping the possibility of catching the Corona Virus-19.
Manila Bulletin
ECONOMY AND INVESTMENTS
First quarter investment pledges fall to 2-yr low of P29.4B
The number of foreign-led projects approved by the government’s seven investment promotion agencies (IPAs) fell by 36.2 percent to P29.4 billion in the first quarter of 2020, not helped by a lockdown imposed to stop the spread of SARS Cov2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Business groups press Duterte for 'more substantial' economic plan vs virus
Forty-four of the country's biggest business groups urged the Duterte administration to quickly implement a "more substantial" stimulus plan to revive the economy from the coronavirus pandemic.
Rappler
Revisiting our debt penalty
Did you know that 15 years ago, about 9 out of every 10 pesos of revenues received by the Philippine national government just went to its debt payments?
Philippine Daily Inquirer
BUILD, BUILD, BUILD and PUBLIC WORKS
Expressway to Cabanatuan open by December 2020
A major segment of the Central Luzon Link Expressway (CLLEX) to Cabanatuan City in Nueva Ecija is expected to open by the end of 2020, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said Thursday.
Manila Bulletin
No stopping bridge, railway
DESPITE the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Malacañang on Thursday, June 4, 2020, said the multi-billion Samal Island-Davao City Connector (SIDC) Project (Davao-Samal Bridge) and Phase 1 of the Mindanao Railway Project would still push through.
Sunstar Davao
OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
AUDIT, GRAFT, AND CORRUPTION
FOREIGN RELATIONS
Korean Embassy to no longer put visa sticker on PH passports
The Korean Embassy in the Philippines announced that it will no longer attach visa stickers on applications processed in the Philippines starting July 1.
Manila Bulletin
West Philippine Sea
Fortifying Pag-asa
Last month, the Philippine Navy’s BRP Ivatan made history as the first Philippine vessel to have docked at Pag-asa island (also known as Thitu), the second largest island in the Spratlys Group, and the largest in the Philippine-held Kalayaan Island Group.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
LABOR
OWWA says only members may avail themselves of free rides
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) clarified that only members of OWWA will be given free rides to their provinces.
Manila Bulletin
Red Cross simplifies COVID-19 tests for OFWs
The Philippine Red Cross (PCR) has decided to have arriving overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to fill up online the required personal details before undergoing testing for the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Manila Bulletin
Returning OFWs urged to start own tech-based businesses
Returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) can start their own technology-based enterprise with the help of a project of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Manila Bulletin
TESDA offers free training for returning OFWs
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) returning to the country can avail themselves of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s (TESDA) free training by registering online through the agency’s mobile application.
Manila Bulletin
Clark airport reopens for arriving OFWs
The Clark International Airport is expected to reopen on Friday to accept flights carrying returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president Vivencio Dizon announced Thursday.
Manila Bulletin
TRANSPORTATION
Tolentino, Hontiveros take up the cudgels for bikers vs MMDA
Senators have slammed the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for penalizing members of a bikers’ group who placed makeshift barriers along a major highway in Quezon City last Tuesday to protect cyclists.
Manila Bulletin
New aviation protocols bared; passengers to fill up health forms
Passengers and airport and airline workers will have to follow strict health measures as the government allows the resumption of domestic travel operations in the country, Malacañang said.
Manila Bulletin
New bus routes to be opened for GCQ commuters
Additional city bus routes are set to open in the coming days to transport more commuters as public transportation remains limited in Metro Manila under the general community quarantine (GCQ), the Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced.
Manila Bulletin
Cebu Pacific resumes limited domestic operations
Cebu Pacific (CEB) is operating special flights to and from Manila and to other domestic destinations flights primarily for stranded passengers and returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as well as those on essential travel work.
Manila Bulletin
HEALTH
FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
DA endorses clustering of farmlands to improve agriculture
The Department of Agriculture (DA) is eyeing the clustering and consolidation of farmlands as one of its key strategies to level up the Philippine agriculture sector this year.
Manila Bulletin
DA to distribute 15,000 farm machines
The Department of Agriculture (DA) is readying to distribute to farmer-beneficiaries and organizations about 15,000 farm machineries approximately worth P10 billion this year.
Manila Bulletin
EDUCATION
Use Comelec signal boosters for online learning, says solon
A House leader is suggesting the use of Broadband Global Area Networks (BGANs) and Very Small Aperture Terminals (VSATs) to aid in the Department of Education’s (DepEd) plan to use online-based learning methods in the coming school year.
Manila Bulletin
Group slams DepEd for ‘failing’ to prevent physical reporting of teachers
A federation of teachers on Thursday, June 4, accused the Department of Education (DepEd) of “violating its own” directive after its local officials reportedly compelled some public school teachers to perform work both in school and in their communities during their first week of reporting back for duty.
Manila Bulletin
Groups say all teachers ‘deserve urgent support’ from gov’t amid COVID-19 crisis
Groups on Wednesday, June 3, reiterated that all teachers, whether they are from public or private schools, deserve urgent support from the government as various sectors and industries continue to grapple with the impacts of the COVID-19.
Manila Bulletin
ENERGY
Extend lifeline electricity rate subsidies — Sen. Gatchalian
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is now pushing for the extension of lifeline rate subsidies for 20 more years in order to provide continuous relief to low-income households or those who consume 100 kilowatt-hours (kwh) or less of monthly electricity.
Manila Bulletin
POVERTY
SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT
DSWD awaits passage of Bayanihan 2 Act
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said on Thursday, June 4 it is awaiting the enactment into law of the proposed “Bayanihan to Recover as One” bill or the Bayanihan 2.
Manila Bulletin
HOUSING and SETTLEMENT
10,000 more applications for Balik Probinsya expected with manual registration now available
At least 10,000 more applications for the government’s “Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa Program (BP2)” are expected to be received within the week as manual registration for the program is now available in barangays, an official said on Thursday.
Manila Bulletin
Sen. Bong Go grateful to DA for supporting Balik Probinsya program with agri-enterprise assistance for beneficiaries
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go today lauded the recent pronouncements of Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary William Dar that the DA would extend agri-enterprise assistance to beneficiaries of the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa (BP2) Program of the government which seeks to accelerate countryside socio-economic development.
Manila Bulletin
TOURISM
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION AND TECHNOLOGY
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