Why the Lopezes fought Marcos, and helped the communist fronts
WITH the franchise for the Lopez clan’s ABS-CBN broadcasting network still in limbo, it would be very informative to look at this oligarch’s history, why it fought Marcos (and was depicted after his fall as noble pro-democracy tycoons) and how powerful its media empire was, so formidable that only Marcos’ martial law could stop it.
The Manila Times
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Elago on Senate report: Probe Dela Rosa instead of student leaders
Kabataan party-list Rep. Sarah Elago denounced Thursday the Senate committee report recommending a probe and possible filing of charges against her and other student leaders linked to the alleged recruitment of minor students by leftist groups.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
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Dismissal of ‘false and malicious’ Esperon perjury rap sought by rights groups
Rights groups Karapatan, Gabriela, and the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines (RMP) on Thursday filed a rejoinder to the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office in response to National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr.’s perjury case.
Philippine Star
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DepEd-Iloilo to look into CPP-NPA recruitment in schools
The newly-installed division superintendent of the Department of Education (DepEd) in the province of Iloilo said he will look into the alleged recruitment of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) in Iloilo schools.
Philippine News Agency
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Sitio Ibuan sees the light of hope, prosperity -Army
Sitio Ibuan, Brgy Mampi Lanuza, Surigao del Sur as one of the pilot beneficiaries of Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster, this province sees the light of hope and prosperity during the Mass Graduation and Inauguration of nterprise village held at the said place last Oct 1, 2019.
Kalinaw News
CNT Leadership crumbling down in Sursur
The communist NPA Terrorist leadership crumbling down in Surigao del Sur as series of CNT leaders and supporter surrenders to Army’s 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion from October 2 and 3 at H36IB, Brgy Dayoan, Tago, this province.
Kalinaw News
2 NPAs surrender
Two alleged communist guerrillas surrendered to the 27th Infantry Battalion at its headquarters in Tupi, South Cotabato on Oct 1.
The Mindanao Times
Peace Talks
Incidents/ Operations
Soldiers, rebels engage in a running gun battle in Manjuyod, Negros Oriental
The hinterland Sitio Cabangahan of Barangay Bantolinao in Manjuyod town of Negros Oriental was a scene of a fierce gun battle when a platoon from the Bravo Company of the 94th Infantry Mandirigma Battalion and about 20 suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) clashed on Thursday, October 3, 2019.
Cebu Daily News
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Russia ready to help Philippines in counter-terror efforts —Putin
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday told President Rodrigo Duterte that Russia was prepared to partner with the Philippines in counter-terrorism efforts. Putin made the remark during the bilateral meeting between the two leaders in Sochi, where Duterte also attended the Valdai Discussion Group.
GMA News, CNN Philippines
MARAWI
Marawi rehab faces further delay – Marcos
Neophyte Senator Imee R. Marcos said on Thursday the rehabilitation of battle-scarred Marawi city faces further delay unless the government works out a plan to speed up the titling of lands for the city’s displaced residents.
Manila Bulletin, Philippine Star, Philippine News Agency
Army’s Marawi commander vows to secure city’s rehab works
The new commander of the Philippine Army in Marawi City has vowed to continue supporting the security needs of the city’s rehabilitation and reconstruction.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Marawi MSMEs earn more than P700K during Bangon Marawi Trade Fair
The micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) here have earned a total of P722,140 during the recently concluded Bangon Marawi Trade Fair, which capped the National Peace Consciousness Month celebration.
Bangon Marawi
TFBM gears up for 14th ‘Kawiyagan’
As the city celebrates on Oct. 17 the second anniversary of its liberation from IS-linked extremist group, the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) member-agencies agreed to hold the 14th “Kawiyagan” (livelihood activity) on Oct. 16 with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) as host.
Bangon Marawi
UN HABITAT sustainable livelihood support launched
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) has launched here its P44.2 million livelihood project, complementing its shelter rehabilitation project for the internally displaced persons (IDPs). The six-month project aims to provide sustainable livelihood assistance to 4,000 IDP-households and capacitate them with skills in agri-business, enterprise, establishing markets, among others.
Bangon Marawi
SOUTHEAST ASIA AND THE WORLD
Preventing violent extremism isn’t a job for civil society alone
Civil society organisations working to prevent violent extremism in the Lake Chad Basin are numerous, and receive continued financial support from donors. In addition to their efforts are those of governments that tend to be security focused. Despite both types of initiatives though, violent extremist groups continue to recruit, radicalise and attack.
Institute for Security Studies
Facebook suffers legal blow in EU court over hate speech
Facebook on Wednesday was dealt a major blow in the European Union's top court, which ruled that national courts in Europe can order online platforms to remove defamatory content worldwide.
Aljazeera, Forbes, The New York Times
Bogus Terrorism Charges Against Russian Journalists
The Russian government’s abuse of the country’s broad, harsh counterterrorism legislation is on shocking display as two journalists now face potential lengthy prison sentences on politically motivated charges.
Human Rights Watch
Africa holds the key to defeating terrorism
On Somalia’s southeast coast, the US outpost of Camp Baledogle is getting a facelift. After al-Shabab militants carried out an attack on the site in September, the US Defence Department has given the green light to “emergency repairs” worth more than $12 million.
The East Africa Monitor
Ukraine a 'playground' for white supremacist extremists, report warns
Apart from allegedly wanting to kill radical leftists and bomb a TV network widely reported to be CNN, 24-year-old US Army private Jarrett William Smith, charged on Sep 23, also wanted to travel to Ukraine to join the Azov Battalion.
The Straits Times
US diplomat: ISIS could make a return in Iraq
The malign influence of Iran-backed militias in areas of Iraq could lead to new flashpoints and allow the return of ISIS militants, a senior US diplomat has warned. Andrew Peek, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Iran and Iraq at the US State Department, told The National that the greatest concerns were in areas once run by ISIS that are now controlled by groups that answer to Tehran.
The National UAE
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BARMM
MBHTE-BARMM Minister Iqbal delivers speech on BARMM Educational System: Plans and Direction during 35th ASEAN Council of Teachers + 1 Convention in Brunei
Minister Mohagaher Iqbal of the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MBHTE-BARMM) delivered a message during the 35th ASEAN Teachers Conference on September 28 at Parkview Hotel in Seri Begawan, Brunei where more 700 participants from eight countries (Malaysia, Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, Brunei, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines) attended.
Luwaran
MAGUINDANAO AND COTABATO CITY
Cops deactivate grenade found in Cotabato compound
Police deactivated a live grenade found at the compound of a big construction firm here Wednesday. Capt. Rustom Pastolero, city police station 2 chief, said they received a call at about 3 p.m. from the Compact Construction and Development Co. in Barangay Rosary Heights 5, asking for assistance following the discovery of an M61 grenade near their front fence by a roving security guard.
Philippine News Agency
NGO, local leaders extend aid to IP children in Maguindanao upland community
More than 100 pupils of a remote and far-flung day care center have benefitted from the outreach program conducted by a non-government organization in partnership with the local government of Upi, Maguindanao on Thursday.
NDBC News
Maguindanao prosecutors win 12 big cases in 12 months
The Maguindanao provincial prosecution office had set a record feat for having prosecuted successfully 12 high-profile crimes, including multiple incestuous rapes, in the past 12 months.
NDBC News
Marine officer hurt, ‘habal-habal’ driver killed in gun attacks
Two separate shooting incidents here wounded a Marine officer and killed a “habal-habal” (motorcycle for hire) driver, police said. Citing a report from the Cotabato City police, Lt. Col. Lino Capellan, speaking for the Police Regional Office 12 (Soccsksargen), said Marine Cpl. Brenston Balderas was wounded in a shooting incident that transpired along the junction of Notre Dame Avenue and Don Cesar Street at past 10 a.m. Thursday.
Philippine News Agency
NORTH COTABATO
LANAO PROVINCES
BASILAN
SULU
Sulu Sultanate heir to launch protest vs DOE
The heir of the Sulu Sultanate sent a stern warning to the Department of Energy (DoE), saying they will launch a massive rally to be participated in by all stakeholders if the government agency will pursue a oil and gas service contracts in the Sulu Sea. Datu Hafidz Datu Shariful Alawaddin, on Thursday told The Manila Times they have launched protest rally in front of the DoE Central Office in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City last August 19.
The Manila Times
Race to conserve few remaining Sulu hornbills on
With an estimated 27 mature Sulu hornbills left in the wild, ecologists are rushing to save one of the world’s rarest birds endemic in the Bangsamoro region, officials said Thursday.
Mindanews
TAWI-TAWI
Ransom demand made for kidnapped Indonesian fishermen
The family of one of three recently abducted Indonesians fishermen has received a ransom demand from their kidnappers. Sabah Police Commissioner Omar Mammah said according to their Philippines counterparts, the kidnappers had made the call a few days after the Sept 23 incident.
The Jakarta Post, The Manila Times, New Straits Times, Free Malaysia Today
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DRUGS
Albayalde, Magalong word war hurting PNP – Solon
The tit-for-tat between Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde and former PNP official Benjamin Magalong is hurting the police force as an institution.
Manila Bulletin
Gordon on resumption of Senate probe on 'ninja cops,' GCTA: I want the truth to surface
Senator Richard Gordon, chairman of the Senate blue ribbon and justice committees, on Thursday said he just wants the truth to come out as the inquiry on the alleged drug-recycling operations of 'ninja cops' and good conduct time allowance (GCTA) resumes.
GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer
Gordon pushes for separate probe vs Albayalde over Pampanga ‘ninja cops’
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde should be investigated for administrative and criminal charges over his alleged involvement in the November 2013 irregular drug sting in Mexico, Pampanga, Senator Richard Gordon said Thursday.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Gordon to NBI, PNP: Locate Johnson Lee, Ding Wen Kung
Senator Richard Gordon on Thursday ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to locate the whereabouts of suspected drug lord Johnson Lee and a Chinese national who was acquitted of illegal drug charges.
Manila Bulletin
Senate to question CIDG chief on demotion of 13 Pampanga cops
The Senate will question Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) director Maj. Gen. Amador Corpus over the demotion of 13 police officers formerly assigned in Pampanga who were involved in an irregular anti-drug operation in Mexico town in November 2013.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Senate cites cop in 2013 Pampanga buy-bust in contempt
The Senate committee on human rights and justice cited in contempt the police official who led the drug buy-bust operation in Mexico, Pampanga.
Manila Bulletin, GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer
November 2013 Pampanga drug bust report doctored, says ex-police official
The 13 police officers ordered dismissed due to their alleged involvement in the recycling of seized illegal drugs lied about their November 2013 operation in Pampanga by turning over reduced number of confiscated illegal drugs, a former police official told a Senate inquiry on Thursday.
GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer
PDEA chief says Albayalde asked him not to implement dismissal order vs. 13 ‘ninja cops’
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) chief Aaron Aquino on Thursday confirmed that Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Oscar Albayalde indeed called him up to ask him not to implement the order dismissing the 13 police men who were involved in the drug buy-bust in Mexico, Pampanga in 2013.
Manila Bulletin, GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer
PDEA chief got kids’ blessings: Go ahead daddy, tell the truth
The night before he appeared at the Senate on Thursday, he gathered his family and got their blessings to finally tell the truth.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Albayalde insists: Aquino not influenced on order vs 13 Pampanga cops
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde on Thursday maintained he could not have influenced Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) chief Aaron Aquino on the non-implementation of the dismissal order against the 13 Pampanga policemen.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Magalong says cops sending him messages, thanking him for ‘standing for the truth’
After hurling accusations against no less than the top police official of the land, former Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) director Benjamin Magalong Jr. said Thursday he has been receiving text messages from police officers thanking him for “standing for the truth.”
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Magalong rejects insinuations of ill motives in coming out with testimonies
Former Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Chief Benjamin Magalong on Thursday rejected insinuations he has any ill-motive in coming out with the information against the Chief of Philippine National Police (PNP).
Manila Bulletin
Magalong: ‘Hopefully’ any one of 13 Pampanga cops will ‘come out’ and ‘tell everything’
Former Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief Benjamin Magalong Jr. has urged the 13 police officers formerly assigned in Pampanga to spill the beans on the controversial anti-drug operation in Mexico town in November 2013.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Magalong says someone approached a hitman ‘to harm him’
Former Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) director Benjamin Magalong Jr. revealed on Thursday he received information that someone already approached a hitman to harm him.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
PNP to refile cases against 13 Pampanga cops
The Philippine National Police (PNP) vowed on Thursday it will refile the criminal and administrative cases against 13 police officers who were involved in the controversial anti-drug operation in Pampanga in 2013 now being investigated by the Senate.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Makabayan solons call for Albayalde’s resignation amid ‘ninja cops’ probe
Makabayan Bloc lawmakers want Philippine National Police chief Director General Oscar Albayalde and other concerned officials to resign amid their supposed role in the alleged drug recycling involving "ninja cops."
GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer
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Eleazar to bar reinstatement of ‘narco cops’
Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), has implemented a four-pronged preemptive strike to address the problem of erring policemen engaged in illegal drugs activities in Metro Manila and drug-recycling including barring their reinstatement in the police force.
Manila Bulletin
DILG assures fair, thorough trial for beleaguered PNP Chief
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday assured that a “thorough and fair” probe on the charges leveled against Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Oscar Albayalde will be conducted.
Manila Bulletin, GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer
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CJ Bersamin urges global effort to fight illegal drugs
Chief Justice Lucas P. Bersamin on Thursday, October 4, urged not only local cooperation but also international collaboration in the government’s drive against illegal drugs.
Manila Bulletin
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DILG exec: Guia Castro may face suspension, dismissal from public service
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday said Guia Gomez Castro, the alleged drug queen who conspires with police officers in selling narcotics, may face suspension or dismissal from public service.
GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer
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Anti-drug agents' salaries will increase to over P33,000 in proposed new agency —Sotto
Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Thursday said the salary of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) agents will increase from around P20,000 to over P33,000 once they are absorbed in the proposed new anti-illegal drug agency.
GMA News
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Relatives of ‘Tokhang’ victims decry inequality in treatment of drug suspects
Amid the Senate investigation into the “ninja cops” mess, the mothers of three victims of “Oplan Tokhang” operations decried the blatant difference in the treatment of poor and rich drug suspects.
GMA News
‘On the President’s Orders’ Review: Police Unleashed on the Philippines
The documentary “On the President’s Orders” opens with a clip of President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines saying in 2016 that he would be “happy to slaughter” the country’s drug addicts. He approvingly compares taking that action to Hitler’s genocide of Jews.
The New York Times
Operations/ Incidents
Suspected drug pusher nabbed in Albay buy-bust
A woman suspected of selling illegal drugs was arrested in a buy-bust operation in Tabaco City in Albay province on Wednesday night.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Recovery and Rehabilitation
ILLICIT FIREARMS, EXPLOSIVES AND AMMUNITION
Passenger vessel exec nabbed for firearms
The Philippine Coast Guard and the police arrested an official of a passenger vessel for alleged possession of several firearms and ammunition on Wednesday, October 2.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
CROSS-BORDER TRADING/ SMUGGLING
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
KIDNAPPING
ILLEGAL GAMBLING
ILLICIT FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS/ EXTORTION
Cebu dad eyes task force vs. investment scammers
Amid reports of the proliferation of fly-by-night investment firms victimizing Cebuanos, the chair of the Provincial Board's committee on commerce and industry on Thursday said he plans to propose the creation of a task force that will run against establishments involved in investment scams.
Philippine News Agency
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Lot buyers urged: Use LRA verification system to check land title’s authenticity
Avoid being a victim of land scams by using the title verification system of the Land Registration Authority (LRA). LRA Administrator Renato Bermejo made this statement during a recent press briefing.
Cebu Daily News
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Respect the rights of the natives
Brothers and sisters, by virtue of Presidential Proclamation 1906 signed in 2009, we celebrate in October the National Indigenous Peoples Month. We are all urged to recognize the important contribution of the katutubo or natives in nation-building. At the start of this month, let us know the issues our native brothers and sisters are facing that are usually overlooked by most everyone.
Business Mirror
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Bayan Muna urges Palace to respond to int'l watchdog's report on killings of activists
Bayan Muna party-list called on Malacañang to address the issue on killings of environmental activists and land defenders raised in the report of an international watchdog instead of "disregarding the report as anti-government propaganda."
Philippine Star
UNHRC Rohingya resolution
The other day I couldn’t help but shake my head after coming across the headlines that screamed China and the Philippines were the only two countries that voted against a UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution addressing the human rights situation of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar.
Philippine Star
De Lima defends US senators Durbin, Leahy amid tirades from Alvarez, Panelo
Senator Leila de Lima on Thursday defended US senators Richard Durbin and Patrick Leahy from tirades from Philippine officials, saying the verbal attacks on them show the Duterte administration is bent on "covering up" her political persecution.
GMA News
‘Time for action in protecting children’s rights’
In a speech delivered at the UN General Assembly event “Combatting Human Trafficking in Migration Contexts” co-hosted by the Philippines, Bahrain and Nigeria, Special Envoy of the President to Unicef Monica Prieto-Teodoro delivered an impassioned call to action which was enthusiastically received by her co-panelists and the audience.
Philippine Star
Press Freedom/ Freedom of expression
Martial Law
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Duterte blasts critics of drug war, seeks ‘mutual respect’ among nations
Before fellow world leaders and prominent think tanks, President Rodrigo Duterte justified his war on drugs anew, underscoring that the Philippines “want unimpeded freedom” in governing itself as a nation.
GMA News, ABS-CBN News, CNN Philippines, Philippine Daily Inquirer
Putin says PH ‘very important partner’ of Russia in Asia
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday told President Rodrigo Duterte that the Philippines is a “very important” partner of Russia in Asia. The two leaders met once again as Duterte embarks on his second visit to Russia.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
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Foreign journo says Duterte ‘unkempt’ in meeting with Russian PM Medvedev
President Rodrigo Duterte had a “sloppy” appearance during his meeting with Russia’s Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev in Moscow on Wednesday, a foreign journalist said. Pavel Vondra, an editor at Czech Radio Plus headquartered in Prague, posted on Twitter on Thursday a photo of Medvedev and Duterte who had a loose necktie and an open collar.
GMA News
Palace defends Duterte’s manner of dressing
Malacañang defended President Duterte’s appearance after Russian netizens took to Twitter how “unkempt” Duterte was when he had his bilateral meeting with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev here Wednesday.
Manila Bulletin
‘Very famous’ Duterte changed direction of PH development–Russian think thank head
President Rodrigo Duterte’s “very famous” status as a politician and a “more open” Philippines under his presidency prompted his invitation to speak at a forum held by one of Russia’s most prominent think thank.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Duterte arrives in Sochi to meet with Putin, Jordan king
President Rodrigo Duterte arrived in Sochi in Russia on Thursday morning (PHL time) for the bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to Sandra Aguinaldo's report on Unang Hirit.
GMA News
PRRD’s 2nd Russia trip is part of PH independent foreign policy
President Rodrigo Duterte’s second trip to Russia is part of his independent foreign policy to establish partnerships with as many countries, apart from traditional allies, Malacañang said on Thursday.
Philippine News Agency
PH improving market access to Russia, envoy says
Philippine Ambassador to Russia Carlos Sorreta said the government is working “aggressively” to improve the Philippines' market access to Russia, particularly on agricultural products.
Philippine News Agency
Duterte invites Russian oil company to invest in PH – Panelo
President Rodrigo Duterte has invited a leading Russian oil company to invest in the Philippines, particularly in the area of oil and gas exploration.
Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin
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Palace on Pinoy celebs reportedly in Russia during Duterte visit: They’re his rabid fans
Filipino celebrities who are reportedly in Russia during President Rodrigo Duterte's visit are his "rabid" fans and have not been paid to be there, Malacañang said Thursday.
GMA News, Manila Bulletin
Gov’t open to releasing full list of PH delegation to Russia amid junket allegations
Malacañang said it is open to releasing the list of the entire delegation that accompanied President Rodrigo Duterte on his five-day trip to Russia.
CNN Philippines
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Panelo: US Senator Leahy ‘cannot be more popish than the Pope’
Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo on Thursday fired back at United States Senator Patrick Leahy who brought up the human rights situation in the Philippines amid his opposition to the continued detention of Senator Leila De Lima.
GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
VP Leni urges aggressive immunization programs
Vice President Leni Robredo urged the Department of Health and local government units to be “more aggressive” in their immunization programs to allay fears of many parents on the use of vaccines.
Manila Bulletin
ELECTION RELATED
No definite voting yet on Marcos-Robredo case —Bersamin
Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin denied Thursday that the Supreme Court, sitting as the Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET), has already decided former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s election protest against Vice President Leni Robredo.
GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin
Commissioner Guanzon to propose one-year appointment ban on losing party-list nominees
Commission on Elections Commissioner Rowena Guanzon believes losing partylist nominees should be included in the one-year appointment ban.
Manila Bulletin
DISASTER
MINDANAO
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
Task force’s discussion on federalism ongoing, DILG spox says
An official from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday admitted that the government is not yet ready to fully campaign the proposed federal constitution.
GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin
JUDICIARY
SC asks DOJ, DILG to answer petition vs. IRR on GCTA law
The Supreme Court (SC) has required the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to answer the petition that challenged the constitutionality of the new implementing rules and regulations (IRR) on the expanded Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) Law under Republic Act No. 10592.
Manila Bulletin, GMA News, Philippine News Agency, Philippine Daily Inquirer
Water firms ask SC to recall nearly P2-B fine for Clean Water Act breach
Water concessionaires Maynilad Water Services Inc., and Manila Water Company have asked the Supreme Court to reverse its August ruling ordering them to pay fines of almost P2 billion for non-compliance with Republic Act 9275 or the Philippine Clean Water Act.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
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COA: BuCor extended catering contracts without DOJ approval
The commission on Audit (COA) has revealed that the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) extended contracts of its catering services which were not approved by the Secretary of Justice.
Manila Bulletin
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Reducing age of criminal responsibility should be ‘carefully considered,’ Guevarra says
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said lowering the age of criminal responsibility may deter drug syndicates from using children in their operations, as he suggested that Congress reevaluate laws that may have been exploited by criminals.
GMA News
LEGISLATIVE
Senate of the Philippines
Senate resumes hearing on GCTA, BuCor, ‘ninja cops’
The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Thursday resumed its probe into the anomalies in the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), New Bilibid Prison (NBP) and the corruption issues hounding the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Manila Bulletin
Women’s correctional only gets daily P39 worth of meals per prisoner
Former Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) officer turned caterer Angelina Bautista has revealed that prisoners at the women’s correctional only receive P39 worth of meals per day.
Manila Bulletin, Philippine Daily Inquirer
Tolentino bats for privately-owned jails
Senator Francis Tolentino proposed the idea of having private companies build and operate new jail facilities, which will be used to detain non-heinous crimes convicts.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Hontiveros bewails hospital ‘staycation’ scheme
Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros on Thursday took to task officials from the Bureau of Corrections (Bucor) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) for an alleged “hospital staycation scam” where convicted drug lords would be given hospital passes so they can stay at certain private hospitals for extended periods despite not being ill.
Manila Bulletin, GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer
Senate panel approves DOTr’s P147-B budget for 2020
The Senate Committee on Finance approved on Thursday the P147-billion budget of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for 2020, even as the agency asks for additional budget, including approximately P1.2 billion for 13 aviation projects.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
WATCH: Some funny moments during Senate hearing
Aside from the usual exposes and exchange of accusations and tirades, Thursday’s hearing at the Senate also provided some comic relief.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
House of Representatives
Solon files bill protecting husbands, partners vs. violence
A lawmaker has filed a bill at the House of Representatives seeking to protect partners or spouses, including husbands, and their children against violence.
GMA News
Suansings seek transfer of FDA from under administrative control of DOH to OP
Nueva Ecija Rep. Estrellita Suansing and her husband, Sultan Kudarat Rep. Horacio Suansing have sought the transfer of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from the Department of Health (DOH) to the Office of the President to ensure its autonomy and independence.
Manila Bulletin
Another solon vouches for pork-free 2020 budget bill
Buhay Party-list Rep. Lito Atienza on Thursday said that as an anti-pork barrel advocate, he can vouch to the Senate that the 2020 General Appropriations Bill passed by the House of Representatives is 100 percent clear of pork barrel insertions.
Manila Bulletin
Lady solons vow to support bill protecting children from forced early marriages
Women legislators have vowed on Thursday to support a bill seeking to protect children from being forced into early marriages.
Manila Bulletin
BUDGET, FINANCE and TAXATION
Duterte economic team seen pushing to privatize Pagcor, PCSO
The government is studying the turnover to the private sector of commercial functions of two of the biggest income earners among government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs)—the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
BIR sues 26 Metro Manila taxpayers for P1 billion
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) filed on Thursday tax evasion cases against 26 businesses based in Metro Manila for allegedly owing the government more than P1 billion in income, value-added and other taxes.
Manila Bulletin
GMA, Inquirer.net execs face tax evasion raps
Revenue officials on Thursday filed criminal tax evasion charges before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against eleven corporations, including the now-defunct internet publishing firm INQ7 Interactive Inc.
Philippine News Agency
DOF, BIR raid warehouses operated by ‘tax-dodging’ firms in Bulacan
Authorities on Thursday raided a compound here where several stalls and warehouses were reportedly being operated illegally by at least five companies that have not been paying taxes.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Taxes on traditional and e-cigarettes must be equivalent
This is in response to the article “Sotto finds additional tax on e-cigs a ‘bit high’” (9/30/19). In the report, Senate President Vicente Sotto III was quoted as saying that he believes the tax rates on electronic cigarettes submitted by the Senate committee on ways and means were “a bit high.”
Philippine Daily Inquirer
LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS (LGUs)
Manila ranks 94th among 102 smart cities
Manila ranked 94th among 102 cities in the global “smart city” ranking with Singapore topping the list as the world’s smartest city. The IMD Smart City Index 2019 (SCI), which ranks 102 cities worldwide, was the first edition released by the IMC World Competitiveness Center’s Smart City Observatory, in partnership with Singapore University of Technology and Design.
Manila Bulletin
Assessment on LGUs’ road clearing drive out next week—DILG
The performance of local government units (LGU) in clearing obstructions on public roads will be made public next week, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said Thursday.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MMDA thinks Metro Manila cities accomplished road clearing ops
As far as Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Jojo Garcia is concerned, no local chief executive in the National Capital Region will be suspended for non-compliance to President Rodrigo Duterte’s order against obstructions on public roads to help ease traffic flow.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MMDA: Sustaining cleared public roads next challenge for LGUs
After President Rodrigo Duterte’s deadline on clearing obstructions on public roads lapsed, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is now looking at the continuity of the road clearing drive in a bid to help ease the traffic flow.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
DEFENSE AND SECURITY
PHL Army activates Aviation Regiment, Air Defense and Missile units
With the aim to intensify defense against present, emerging and future threats, the Philippine Army on Thursday activated its Aviation Regiment, the 2nd Multiple Launch Rocket System Battery (2MLRS Btry) and the 1st Land-based Missile System Battery (1LBMS Btry) in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.
GMA News, Philippine News Agency, Philippine Daily Inquirer
PAF needs choppers with heavy-lift capability: DND
There is an ongoing requirement for the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to acquire a helicopter with heavy-lift capability, which will be used for its humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions, the Department of National Defense (DND) said Thursday.
Philippine News Agency
PH, Japan beef up cooperation in 1st defense industry forum
The Philippines and Japan renewed cooperation in the field of defense during the first Philippines-Japan Defense Industry Forum held in Taguig City, Wednesday. “The inaugural Philippines-Japan Defense Industry Forum aims to promote defense equipment cooperation between our countries with the goal of contributing to each of our countries’ respective mandates and responsibilities,” Defense Undersecretary Cardozo Luna said in his speech.
Philippine News Agency, Philippine Daily Inquirer
250 erring cops face raps: IMEG
As part of its internal cleansing program, the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG), the anti-scalawag unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP), has already filed cases against 250 erring cops.
Philippine News Agency
‘Dept of pensioners’? How retirement funds swallow PH defense budget
The budget of the Department of National Defense (DND) increases every year, but it does not necessarily mean it all goes to the military’s purchase of new weapons and equipment or operational expenses.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
ECONOMY AND INVESTMENTS
Aggressive digital strategies key to PH firms’ competitiveness, says McKinsey
Philippine companies need to take bold initiatives in the digital sphere and use technology to remain relevant and competitive in the today’s so-called age of disruption, according to an international consulting sphere.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
BUILD, BUILD, BUILD and PUBLIC WORKS
OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
AUDIT, GRAFT AND CORRUPTION
FOREIGN RELATIONS
PH-Australia relationship 'broad, deep': Embassy
A ranking official from the Australian Embassy in Manila on Thursday has underscored the "broad" and "deep" relationship between Manila and Canberra amid President Rodrigo Duterte's suspension of loans from the latter.
Philippine News Agency
West Philippine Sea
Russia interested in exploring WPS but won’t meddle in PH-China sea row
Philippine Ambassador to Russia Carlos Sorreta said that Russia was interested in exploring the West Philippine Sea for energy cooperation but has no intention to meddle in the sea dispute between the Philippines and China.
Manila Bulletin
China is resorting to new forms of bullying in the South China Sea
Less is heard these days about China’s massive terraforming operations in the South China Sea, which not long ago exercised neighbours as well as the United States. But that does not mean China is any less assertive in the 1.4m square-mile (3.5m square-km) sea which, on the flimsiest grounds, it claims pretty much in its entirety.
The Economist
‘Chinese presence in WPS won’t deter Philippines maritime patrol’
The growing presence of Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea will not stop the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) from sending patrols to the area – especially around the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) – for monitoring and law enforcement.
Philippine Star
LABOR
Labor deal to help OFWs secure Russian visas: envoy
With the rise in the number of Filipino workers in Russia, Philippine Ambassador Carlos Sorreta is hoping that the Philippines and Russia would soon strike a bilateral labor agreement to provide them with visas.
Philippine News Agency
DOLE: Another Filipino fisherman found dead in collapsed Taiwan bridge
The missing Filipino fisherman from a collapsed bridge in Taiwan was found dead, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has confirmed. According to DOLE, the lifeless Romulo Escalicas Jr. was discovered 11:28 a.m Thursday.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
TRANSPORTATION
‘Hodge-podge planning’: How DOTr mismanages PUV modernization program, according to senators
"For such a major project, it's such a hodge-podge planning. It's so disappointing, Mr. Secretary. I'm sorry to say." This, in sum, was how Senator Franklin Drilon criticized the failure of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to set realistic targets for the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) and work towards them.
Rappler
Poe suggests business-class train coaches for MRT-3
Senator Grace Poe floated on Thursday the possibility of providing business-class train coaches for the Metro Rail Transit-3 (MRT-3) to help ease traffic along Edsa.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
DOTr chided over jeepney modernization target-setting issues
Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon on Thursday chided the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for its target-setting in terms of the number of modernized jeepney units needed under the government’s modernization plan.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
As road gridlock shows no sign of easing, PH firms urged to turn to telecommuting
Filipino firms are being urged to adopt work-from-anywhere, or telecommuting, methods to improve productivity and save costs as road gridlocks, especially in Metro Manila, were likely to remain unsolved.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Expat Pinoy engineers to come home to build Metro Manila Subway: DOTr
Dozens of Filipino engineers who are currently working on rail projects abroad are willing to go back to the Philippines to help build railways, particularly the Metro Manila Subway, the country's transportation secretary said on Thursday.
ABS-CBN News
The Pasig River–A road that runs through the Metro
During the pre-Spanish era, the Pasig River was the center of economic and transport activity in Maynila and Tondo. This continued well into the Spanish crown’s rule over the Philippines.
Business Mirror
The Filipino commute
I once read somewhere that a good indicator of a progressive country is not that everyone owns or can own a car, but that even the most wealthy use public transportation.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
HEALTH
DOH: Dengue cases exceed epidemic threshold
Dengue prevalence in the country soared to 300,000 as cases in 12 regions exceeded the epidemic threshold, the Department of Health (DOH) reported yesterday. A total of 307,704 dengue patients were admitted in different hospitals nationwide from Jan. 1 to Sept. 14, based on the DOH dengue surveillance report.
Philippine Star
Lawmakers seek nationwide vaccination, info campaign vs polio
Lawmakers are asking the Department of Health (DOH) to conduct a comprehensive nationwide vaccination against polio and launch massive information campaign to prevent the further transmission and proliferation of the highly infectious viral disease.
Manila Bulletin
Woman dies of meningococcemia in Batangas; another suspected case emerges —DOH
Another suspected case of meningococcemia was reported in Batangas on Thursday after a woman diagnosed with the same infection died two weeks ago, according to the Department of Health regional office in Calabarzon.
GMA News
FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
Pangilinan: Farmers deserve at least P700M from rice tariff collection
Rice farmers should get at least P700 million from the P10 billion excess in the rice tariff collected this year, a senator insisted Wednesday.
Manila Bulletin
EDUCATION
World Teachers’ Day proposed as non-working day for teachers
Deputy Speaker and Pangasinan Rep. Rose Marie Arenas is proposing declaring Oct. 5, World Teachers’ Day, as a non-working day for public and private school teachers.
Manila Bulletin
ENERGY
Waste-to-energy facility to rise in Clark
The Metro Clark Waste Management Corporation (MCWMC) has proposed the construction of a US$210 million facility in Clark, Pampanga, to generate renewable energy out of collected garbage and waste.
Manila Bulletin
POVERTY
SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT
DSWD clarifies authorized relatives can collect social pension on behalf of seniors
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said beneficiaries of the social pension for indigent senior citizens who are fragile and sickly are not required to personally claim their stipend during payout.
Manila Bulletin
HOUSING
TOURISM
World Bank, ADB make available $400 million in loans for tourism projects
THE DEPARTMENT of Tourism (DOT) is hoping to tap some $400 million in official development assistance (ODA) from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank to beef up infrastructure, livelihood and services in key tourism destinations.
Business Mirror
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Water crisis
Water should get the same backing as ‘build, build, build,’ says LWUA chief
Potable water should get the same support that has been given to the government’s “build, build, build” program, the chief of the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) said here on Thursday (Oct. 3).
Philippine Daily Inquirer
INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION AND TECHNOLOGY
DEVELOPMENT SECTOR
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