Dutch embassy still mum on call to send Joma home: group
Since anti-communist group Liga Filipinas Independencia launched a campaign in April to bring Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison back to the country, the Embassy of the Netherlands in the Philippines has kept its silence on the matter.
Philippine News Agency
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Sison’s call for Duterte to yield post to Robredo ‘nonsense’ — Palace
Malacañang on Tuesday shrugged off exiled communist leader Jose Maria Sison’s call for President Rodrigo Duterte to resign due to illnesses and use of addictive pain reliever. “He is always talking nonsense. We will not respond,” presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said at a news conference.
GMA News
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SPARK dismisses Bato’s claim that he protects the youth as ‘outright ridiculous’
Militant youth group, Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan (SPARK) on Tuesday chided Senator Ronald “Bato’’ dela Rosa for allegedly projecting the image of being the youth’s protector against unlawful elements.
Manila Bulletin
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DOJ concludes preliminary probe of raps vs. Colmenares, et. al.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Tuesday (Nov. 12) concluded the preliminary investigation of the complaint filed against nine persons including former and current party-list representatives for allegedly recruiting minors for leftist groups.
Manila Bulletin
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Bayan Muna: Judges who issued warrants for raids must be held liable
Leaders of party-list group Bayan Muna on Tuesday said they are deliberating on the possible filing of administrative complaints against the regional trial court judges who issued the search warrants that allowed the raids on various progressive groups’ offices in Metro Manila and Negros Occidental.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Crackdown on dissent intensifies
With the recent raids on offices of leftist groups in Bacolod City and Metro Manila and the arrest of several militant activists, the Duterte administration continued its crackdown on dissent and assault on democracy that began when critics started opposing his programs, especially his deadly war on drugs.
Manila Standard
Stop criminalizing development work and harassing activists
A wave of raids and mass arrests have descended upon Metro Manila and Bacolod City since Oct. 31, specifically targeting activists and development workers. Among them are farmers, agricultural workers, trade unionists, cultural performers, community organizers and even minors.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
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New Panay Army commander vows to end insurgency in 2020
The new acting commander of the Philippine Army's 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) has guaranteed on Tuesday that government troops will work hard to end insurgency within the target set for areas under the division.
Philippine News Agency
6 Iloilo towns to form task force to end insurgency
A total of six towns in Iloilo province have committed to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to create their respective Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) by end of November.
Philippine News Agency
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Man claims body of young NPA rebel killed in Agusan Norte
The father of the New People’s Army (NPA) member killed during the November 2 encounter in Santiago, Agusan del Norte, finally surfaced and claimed the remains of his son.
Philippine News Agency
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Army activates new CAFGU base in Bicol
The Philippine Army (PA) has activated a new Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) base in Bicol to strengthen its intensified focused military operations in the region.
Manila Bulletin
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NPA 'instructor' yields in Sultan Kudarat
Hardship in the mountains and continuous running away from pursuing government forces, has prompted a communist rebel instructor from Sultan Kudarat to surrender to military authorities, the Army here said Tuesday.
Philippine News Agency
NPA bomb attack seen as setback to Borongan City's tourism
The local government of Borongan City in Eastern Samar has condemned the bomb attack committed by the New People’s Army (NPA) that killed at least six soldiers saying the incident could taint the “good image” of the city.
Philippine News Agency
Peace Talks
Incidents/ Operations
NPAs use IEDs in Borongan ambush: Six troopers killed, 24 wounded
Six soldiers were killed and 24 others were wounded when troops hunting for communist rebels, stepped in a field of land mines or improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Eastern Samar, on Monday afternoon (November 11).
Cebu Daily News, GMA News, Philippine News Agency, Philippine Star, Manila Standard
Suspected CPP-NPA leader arrested in Iloilo
A suspected leader of Propaganda Organizing Team (POT) and alleged member of the Lambat Paniktik under Baluy Platoon of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay (KRP)’s Central Front was arrested in a police operation on Sunday morning.
Philippine News Agency
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Fresh terrorism-financing risks seen from crypto
NATIONAL Security Adviser Hermogenes C. Esperon, Jr. said cryptocurrencies and new digital channels open up new risks for the government to manage as it monitors the financing of terrorism.
Business World Online
Beating terrorists ‘in their own game’: AMLC hosts int’l summit vs laundering
The Anti-Money Laundering Council will work closely with its foreign counterparts to better combat terror, its financing and money laundering, the head of the country’s main financial intelligence unit said.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
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‘ISIS fighters may migrate to Mindanao’
The defense department has expressed concern that returning Malaysian and Indonesian members of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) from the Middle East will migrate to Mindanao.
Philippine Star
Suicide Bombings Take Root in the Southern Philippines
Terrorism and insurgency are not new to the Philippines. But what is surprising is that over the years, and despite the influence of Jemaah Islamiyah militants from Southeast Asia and al-Qaeda operatives and trainers, Filipino militants never embraced suicide bombing as a tactic. That is no longer the case.
Benar News
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Gov’t plans team up with MNLF to fight IS in Mindanao
The government is planning to team up with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to forge a “united front” against the Islamic State-linked elements in Mindanao.
Manila Bulletin
Security forces in Mindanao enough to foil terror attacks
There are sufficient military and police units to secure Mindanao against further terrorist attacks, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said. Lorenzana made the remark as he justified his inclination not to recommend another extension of martial law in the island, which has been extended for the third time.
Philippine News Agency
Martial law administrator wants martial law lifted, says terrorists “can no longer do a Marawi-type operation”
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, concurrent martial law administrator, does not favor a fourth extension of martial law in Mindanao beyond December 31,2019 because it has taken so long and because terrorists “can no longer do a Marawi-type operation.”
Mindanews
Cops nab 2 'BIFF members' in Sultan Kudarat town
Lawmen arrested two alleged members of the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat on Monday. Capt. Arnel Legarda, Columbio police chief, identified the suspects as Solaiman Maonon and Mamatantu Dindo, both of Purok 3, Barangay Makat, Columbio.
Philippine News Agency, NDBC News
MARAWI
Rehab issues continue over Yolanda, Marawi
At about the same time that the Yolanda survivors were calling on the government to act on their still-unresolved housing and other problems, the people of another city – Marawi City in Lanao del Sur – complained that the rebuilding and rehabilitation of Marawi after it was attacked and occupied for five months by Islamic rebels in 2017 remains a big mess to this day.
Tempo
SOUTHEAST ASIA AND THE WORLD
Indonesia Urges Public to Report Civil Servants Over 'Radical' Content
Indonesia launched a website on Tuesday that would allow the public to report "radical" content posted by civil servants, as authorities in the world's biggest Muslim-majority country push to combat hardline Islamist ideology permeating government.
The New York Times
Indonesia to Revise Religious Studies Curriculum to Stop Spread of Radicalism
The Religious Affairs Ministry says it will revise the current religious studies curriculum and ban textbooks that propagate intolerant views at state-run schools in a move to curb creeping religious extremism in Indonesian society.
Jakarta Globe
What radicalized ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi?
The death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi reopened debates about the origins of the Islamic State as well as the more politically contentious question of who is to blame for it. Some analysts argue that Saddam Hussein turned to militant Islamism in the 1990s and used institutions such as the Saddam University for Islamic Studies to radicalize people like al-Baghdadi.
The Washington Post
China Says World Bank Report 'Clarifies Truth' on Xinjiang Programmes
China responded on Tuesday to a decision by the World Bank to reduce funding for vocational training centers in the troubled western region of Xinjiang, by saying the bank's review of its projects had "clarified the truth".
The New York Times
Israeli airstrike kills Islamic Jihad commander in Gaza home
Israel killed a senior Islamic Jihad commander in Gaza early Tuesday in a resumption of pinpointed targeting that threatens a fierce round of cross-border violence with Palestinian militants.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Saudi Arabia Convicts 38 for Financing Terrorism
A Saudi court has convicted 38 people of financing terrorism, handing out sentences ranging from 30 months to 25 years, state-run Al Ekhbariya television reported on Tuesday.
Asharq Al-Awsat
Tunisia Denies Infiltration of ISIS Militants Into Its Territory
Tunisia’s Interior Minister has confirmed that what has been circulated on social media and some Tunisian and foreign press websites, about the return of militants belonging to extremist organizations or have participated in terrorist operations in the hotbeds of tension, is false.
Asharq Al-Awsat
Two Belgian suspects arrested in international investigation into financing of terrorism
Three men from the Netherlands and two men from Belgium were arrested on 5 November as part of an international investigation into the financing of terrorism. Another suspect from the Netherlands was also arrested the following day, on 6 November.
The Brussels Times
Germany: 3 Islamists Detained Over Suspected Attack Plot
Authorities in Germany say they have detained three alleged supporters of the Islamic State group suspected of preparing an attack to kill "as many (...) unbelievers as possible."
The New York Times
Terrorism suspects may be banned from founding NGOs in Russia
A bill prohibiting terrorism suspects from founding NGOs and participating in them on Tuesday passed its second reading in the State Duma. The initiative is expected to amend the federal laws On social associations, On NGOs, On freedom of conscience and On religious associations.
Russian Legal Information Agency (RAPSI)
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PRRD, Misuari to finalize GPH-MNLF peace panel next month
The government and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) will be finalizing next month the creation of a peace coordinating committee to help resolve conflict in Mindanao.
Philippine News Agency
BARMM
Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ebrahim reshuffles regional cabinet
A revamp in the Cabinet of Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim officially took effect Monday, November 11. Ebrahim initially made the announcement of minor changes in the setup of regional Cabinet officials in a meeting on November 4, 2019.
NDBC News, Manila Bulletin, Sunstar Zamboanga
BARMM trains MILF volunteers on water search, rescue
To build the capability of former members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in disaster response, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has embarked on a week-long training of about 50 MILF volunteers on Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) operation.
Philippine News Agency
MAGUINDANAO AND COTABATO CITY
NORTH COTABATO
LANAO PROVINCES
2 Maute members surrender in Lanao del Sur
Two Maute group members have surrendered to the 49th Infantry Battalion in Masiu, Lanao del Sur, according to Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) spokesman Major Arvin Encinas. Camar Gampong Musa and Nasroding Comayog Patiilan with their supporters Badroding Gampong Patiilan and Pacalinog Patiilan Comayog laid down arms on Monday.
GMA News
BASILAN
SULU
TAWI-TAWI
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DRUGS
Palace, Locsin concur in banning Phelim Kine from entering the country
Malacañang is amenable to a proposal to prohibit a foreign human rights advocate from entering the country over his prejudgment on the administration’s war on drugs.
Manila Bulletin, CNN Philippines, GMA News, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Business World Online, Philippine Star
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Robredo to convene ICAD’s law enforcement cluster this week
Vice President Leni Robredo is set to convene on Thursday the Law Enforcement Cluster of the government’s task force against illegal drugs, which she co-chairs, her chief of staff said.
Manila Bulletin
Robredo relieved that Palace is open to scrapping Tokhang
Vice President Leni Robredo is relieved to know that Malacañang is open to scrapping Oplan Tokhang — the prime anti-drug program of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Philippine Daily Inquirer
CHR hopes for 'better' observance of human rights standards with Robredo in ICAD
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday said it hopes that Vice President Leni Robredo's co-chairmanship of the Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Illegal Drugs (ICAD) would mean better protection of human rights in the administration's anti-illegal drugs campaign.
GMA News
Philippine Vice President Could Score a ‘Drug War’ Win
No one was surprised when Philippine Vice President Leni Robredo said recently that the country’s “war on drugs,” in which police have admitted to killing more than 5,500 people, was “not working.” She has spoken out frequently against President Rodrigo Duterte’s brutal and bloody campaign whose actual death toll may exceed 27,000 victims, according to human rights groups.
Human Rights Watch
Robredo to seek help of U.S. intelligence to go after drug lords
Vice President Leni Robredo wants to tap into the United States intelligence resources to go after powerful drug lords in the Philippines. Robredo, the new co-chairperson of the Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Illegal Drugs (ICAD), said this would be one of the agenda during her meeting with US embassy officials on Wednesday, November 13.
Rappler
It’s the mother in Leni which made her accept the job of drug czar
Vice President and opposition leader Leni Robredo on Tuesday revealed that it was her strength as a mother, which pushed her to lead the government’s campaign against illegal drugs.
Manila Bulletin
PNP wants Robredo to focus on advocacy, rehab
The Philippine National Police (PNP) wants Vice President Leni Robredo to focus more on advocacy and rehabilitation of drugs personality as it admitted that these lacked focus in the government’s anti- illegal drugs campaign.
Manila Bulletin
House leaders say Robredo should focus on policy-making at ICAD
Instead of joining drug raids, Vice President Leni Robredo should focus on creating a policy that would “police” enforcers, especially those who are in cahoots with drug syndicates.
Manila Bulletin
Palace defends Robredo from Cayetano’s ‘all talk’ criticism
Malacañang has defended Vice President Leni Robredo from House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano and other critics, urging them to let the new anti-drug czar perform her job.
Manila Bulletin
TURNING POINT: Waging a New War on Drugs
Forward looking strategies have won many battles to win a war. Cutting effectively the supply of water, food, arms and men, is one proven strategy to win battles in many wars. Sometimes, the strategy demands halting the fighting and simply requires looking at how the enemy wilts, fades and raises the white flag without a single shot fired at them.
Mindanews
Lone voice
Survey after survey has revealed that most Filipinos confess themselves quite ignorant of our Constitution and its contents. Never mind actual procedures and how institutions function.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
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Palace: Robredo can ask Congress for additional funds next year
Vice President Leni Robredo should ask Congress if she wants additional funds for the anti-drug campaign next year, Malacañang said Tuesday.
Manila Bulletin
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PNP spokesperson agrees body cams ‘advantageous’ during drug ops
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday insisted that body cameras were advantageous in anti-illegal drugs operations.
GMA News
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‘Bato’: What’s wrong with ‘Oplan Tokhang’?
“What’s wrong with Oplan Tokhang?” Former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief and now Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa defended the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign Tuesday amid Vice President Leni Robredo’s plan to get rid of “Oplan Tokhang,” a police initiative aimed at identifying and approaching suspected drug traffickers and users and enjoining them to stop their nefarious activities.
Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin
Now infamous ‘Tokhang’ name should be abandoned – ex-PDEA chief
A former chief of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) on Tuesday suggested that the "Oplan Tokhang" name given to the government's anti-drugs drive should first be abandoned due to its now negative connotations.
GMA News
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‘Bato’ on Robredo seeking UN, US help on drug issues: PH ground is different
“Iba ang realities on the ground sa Pilipinas.” Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa said this on Tuesday when asked about Vice President Leni Robredo’s move to seek inputs from the United Nations Office on Drug and Crime (UNODC) and the US Embassy in addressing the country’s illegal drug problem.
Philippine Daily Inquirer, GMA News
Dela Rosa to Robredo: Make do with what resources you have
Neophyte Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa gave Vice President Leni Robredo an unsolicited advice on Tuesday: Do your job first before asking for an additional budget.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Bato agrees Robredo should join anti-drug operations
Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa agrees that Vice President and anti-drug czar Leni Robredo should join anti-drug operations to see the situation on the ground rather than monitoring it from an air-conditioned room.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Dela Rosa on Robredo: Hindi ko sinabing nagpapa-cute siya. She is basically cute
Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa clarified on Tuesday that he did not say Vice President Leni Robredo is “nagpapa-cute” in the government’s war against drugs even as he agreed that she can join the raids to properly guide anti-drug operatives.
GMA News
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PDEA’s Aquino should know his place compared to that of Robredo, says solon
When it comes down to who is the boss at the Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Illegal Drugs (ICAD), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Director General Aaron Aquino should “know his place.”
Manila Bulletin
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Locsin lauds Robredo for meeting with UN office on drugs and crime
Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. on Tuesday lauded Vice President Leni Robredo’s recent meeting with the officials from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Manila Bulletin, GMA News
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Bato dela Rosa: No regrets recommending Albayalde as PNP chief despite past haunting him
Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa on Tuesday said he never regretted recommending the appointment of resigned Philippine National Police chief Oscar Albayalde, even if the latter ended up getting embroiled in the "ninja cops" controversy.
GMA News
Albayalde to ‘Bato:’ I didn’t betray your confidence
“I didn’t betray your confidence.” Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa disclosed Tuesday that this was what former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde had told him amid the Senate marathon hearings that pinned him in the “ninja cops” controversy.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
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Gordon lauds CIDG for implicating Albayalde in ‘ninja cops’ case
Sen. Richard Gordon on Tuesday commended the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) for taking “very significant action” in “affirming” the involvement of retired PNP chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde in the so-called ninja cops case.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Operations/ Incidents
High-value target nabbed with P340k worth of illegal drugs
A high-value target was arrested by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Central Visayas (PDEA-7) in a buy-bust operation on Monday morning, November 11, 2019.
Cebu Daily News
Zambo anti-drug ops net drug surrenderer, 3 others
A drug surrenderer, a high-value target (HVT) and two others were arrested in separate anti-drug operations in the area of jurisdiction of the Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9), officials said Tuesday.
Philippine News Agency
2 'big-time' NoCot drug suspects yield P380K shabu
Police and anti-narcotics operatives arrested Tuesday morning two alleged big-time drug peddlers and seized PHP377,000 worth of shabu during a drug sting operation in Pikit town, North Cotabato.
Philippine News Agency
1 killed, 35 nabbed in ‘one time, big time’ ops in Soccsksargen
A suspect in the killing of a town councilor in Sarangani province was killed while 35 wanted persons and alleged drug personalities were arrested in a series of “one time, big time” operations in parts of Region 12 (Soccsksargen) on Monday.
Philippine News Agency
Drugs eyed in Bacolod jail guard slay
The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) is looking into four angles, including illegal drugs, in the killing of Jail Officer 1 Jayvee Jason Vargas just before midnight on Friday in Barangay Cabug here.
Philippine News Agency
Ex-convict nabbed with P1.02M worth of suspected shabu in Dumaguete
Over P1 million worth of suspected shabu ( crystal meth) was confiscated from a 36-year-old former convict during an anti-illegal drug operation in Purok 7, Barangay Batinguel, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental at 9:45 p.m. of November 12, 2019.
Cebu Daily News
Recovery and Rehabilitation
SoCot town declared drug-cleared
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Region 12 (Soccsksargen) has declared the municipality of Tantangan in South Cotabato as drug-cleared. Naravy Duquiatan, PDEA-12 director, said Tuesday that all 13 barangays of Tantangan have passed the parameters set under the national government’s drug-clearing program following a series of assessments.
Philippine News Agency
ILLICIT FIREARMS, EXPLOSIVES, AND AMMUNITION
CROSS-BORDER TRADING/ SMUGGLING/ COUNTERFEIT GOODS
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
KIDNAPPING
ILLEGAL GAMBLING
ILLICIT FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS/ EXTORTION
50 ‘scam’ victims in Tarlac seek NBI help vs poultry firm
About 50 alleged victims of large-scale estafa on Monday sought help from the National Bureau of Investigation here after they were reportedly duped into investing in a company in exchange for high-interest returns.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
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DAR starts validation of EPs, CLOAs in Toledo City
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has started the validation of the status of emancipation patents (EP) and certificates of land ownership award (CLOAs) in Toledo City in Cebu province.
Manila Bulletin
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Press Freedom/ Freedom of expression
2 other suspects in radioman’s slay may surrender — police
The two at large suspects in the killing of a radio broadcaster in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental may surrender to authorities, police said Tuesday.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
‘Gunman’ calls CHR, denies part in radioman’s murder
The alleged triggerman in the fatal shooting of Dumaguete broadcaster Dindo Generoso has denied his involvement in the crime as he sought the help of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) here to clear his name.
Philippine News Agency
Guevarra seeks PHDO vs suspects in slay of broadcaster
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said on Tuesday (Nov. 12) that he has ordered government prosecutors to seek precautionary hold departure orders (PHDO) against suspects in the killing of radio broadcaster Dindo Generoso to prevent them from leaving the country.
Manila Bulletin
P100-K bounty up for radio anchor’s slay suspects
The reward money for information leading to the arrest of alleged gunman in the murder of radio anchor Dindo Generoso has increased to PHP100,000. The Dumaguete Press Club announced Tuesday it will be giving PHP20,000 in addition to the PHP80,000 offered by Negros Oriental provincial police director Col. Julian Entoma.
Philippine News Agency
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Ressa was never a war correspondent; she just watched CNN’s video tapes
Finally, Rappler Chief Executive Officer Maria Ressa revealed so starkly her delusions, the absurd extent her humongous lies about our country and the Duterte administration. In a recent “60 Minutes” program of the American TV network CBS, she said: “The situation in Manila is far worse than any war zone that I’ve been in. In a war zone you know exactly where the threats are coming from. I plan my way in and we plan our way out and you’re there for a limited period of time. We’ve been living through three years of this kind of hell.”
The Manila Times
Martial Law
Anti-terror law amendments should not be used as basis not to extend martial law in Mindanao
Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon on Tuesday said the government should not dangle amendments to the Human Security Act (HSA) as the reasons why martial law in Mindanao should no longer be extended when it expires on December 31.
Manila Bulletin
PNP: Martial law in Mindanao may not need 4th extension
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Tuesday that the martial law in Mindanao may not need to be extended for the fourth time. Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac, PNP spokesperson, said the peace and order situation in Mindanao is now under control. He said the PNP will submit its official recommendation to Malacañang in December on whether or not to extend the military rule in the region.
Philippine Daily Inquirer, GMA News, Business World Online, Philippine Star
Esperon rejects martial law extension
National Security Adviser (NSA) Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. on Tuesday agreed with Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana that martial law in Mindanao should no longer be extended as local government units (LGUs) have been doing their parts to ensure public security.
Manila Bulletin
Mindanao based prelate believes that Martial Law should stay in some areas
A Catholic prelate believes martial law should not be lifted in certain areas in Mindanao. Ozamiz Archbishop Martin Jumoad said martial law should not be lifted in areas where the peace and order situation are still unstable.
Manila Bulletin
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PRRD certifies as urgent bill on higher 'sin' taxes
President Rodrigo Duterte has certified as urgent a measure imposing higher taxes on alcohol products and electronic cigarettes. Duterte certified as urgent Senate Bill No. 1074 on Tuesday, through a letter, addressed to Senate President Vicente Sotto. A copy of the letter was sent to the media from the Office of the Senate President.
Philippine News Agency, Manila Bulletin
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‘The Constitution does not provide for a vocational leaves for the President’ – Drilon
Senate minority leader Franklin Drilon commended Malacañang for retracting its earlier plan to allow President Rodrigo Duterte to go on a three-day vacation leave as doing so is unconstitutional.
Manila Bulletin
Duterte to perform with usual ‘passion and dedication’ working from home
President Duterte is committed to performing his duty with “passion and dedication” despite his decision to work from home for the meantime, Malacanang said Tuesday.
Manila Bulletin
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Malacañang hopes to sign the 2020 national budget by mid-December
Malacañang is optimistic that President Duterte will sign into law the proposed 2020 national budget by the middle of December. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said the Palace hopes Congress will ensure timely passage of the proposed P4.1 trillion national budget for next year following the start of the Senate plenary deliberations.
Manila Bulletin
Duterte keeps hands off Speaker term-sharing deal
President Rodrigo Duterte has kept his distance from the term-sharing arrangement between Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano and Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco.
Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, GMA News
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Duterte visits wakes of Gokongwei, Tan
President Rodrigo Duterte visited the wakes of Cebu Pacific founder John Gokongwei Jr. and PAL Holdings President Lucio ‘Bong Tan Jr. on Monday at the Heritage Memorial Park in Taguig City.
Manila Bulletin, GMA News
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If Cory can do it, Pacquiao can become PH president – Panelo
If a housewife can become the country’s first woman president, a boxing champion-turned-senator can also have a shot at the presidency, according to a Palace official.
Manila Bulletin
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REJOINDER: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte: The Maranao Pride
Earl Parreno’s claims questioning President Duterte’s Maranao bloodline appearing in the article “Decoding Duterte: Facts behind Rody’s claims, rise to power” [Inquirer, p.A4, Nov 3, 2019] are unfounded if not conjectural, to say the least. President Duterte’s pedigree traces back to his great ancestor Datu Samporna, a Maranao nobleman of Momungan (now Balo-i, Lanao del Norte).
Mindanews
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
ELECTION RELATED
Comelec deactivates registration of over 300,000 overseas voters
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has deactivated the registration of more than 300,000 overseas voters for their failure to vote in the 2016 and 2019 elections.
Manila Bulletin, Philippine News Agency
DISASTER
Cotabato governor urges donors to drop off relief goods at gov’t warehouse
The acting governor of Cotabato has called on donors of relief goods to drop off their donations at the local government’s warehouse to ensure that all items were properly managed.
GMA News
1,047 schools damaged by Mindanao quakes – DepEd
The number of schools damaged by the recent series of earthquakes in Mindanao has breached the 1,000 mark, the Department of Education (DepEd) said. In a situation report released Tuesday, DepEd’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) said 1,047 schools were damaged.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
‘Class resumption brings back a sense of normalcy for students’ – Save the Children PH
An international organization promoting the rights and welfare of children underscored the importance of resuming classes in areas affected by the earthquakes in Mindanao to help address the psychosocial stress of affected learners.
Manila Bulletin
Caritas makes emergency appeal for Mindanao quake victims
Caritas Philippines is preparing an emergency appeal addressed to Caritas Internationalis to help fund the rehabilitation projects following the series of strong earthquakes in Mindanao.
Manila Bulletin
PSG extends aid to NoCot town
The Presidential Security Group (PSG) extended relief assistance to the earthquake victims here on Tuesday. The donation represents the contribution of all the 2,700 personnel and civilian employees of PSG from their one-day meal allowance, said PSG chief, Brigadier General Jose Eriel Niembra.
Philippine News Agency
Aboitiz Group ramps up Mindanao quake relief efforts
The Aboitiz Group continues to provide relief to the victims of the recent 6.5 magnitude earthquake that hit Mindanao last October 31, and has so far donated about 39,500 relief packs and water to thousands of affected families.
Philippine News Agency
NGCP restores earthquake-damaged Kidapawan Substation ahead of schedule
The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has announced today that it has restored its Kidapawan Substation on Sunday, November 10, ahead of its November 17 target energization.
NDBC News
MINDANAO
100 Taiwan exhibitors join Taiwan Expo in Davao City
At least 100 Taiwan exhibitors joined the Taiwan Expo 2019 held at the SMX Convention Center at SM Lanang here in Davao City on November 8 and 9 to showcase their expertise in various industries.
Manila Bulletin
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
JUDICIARY
SC disbars lawyer for unlawful, dishonest, deceitful conduct
The Supreme Court (SC) has disbarred a lawyer who failed to provide support to his minor son and falsified the entries in his son’s birth certificate, among other violations of the Code of Professional Responsibility.
Manila Bulletin, Philippine News Agency
LEGISLATIVE
Bloody debate on 2020 budget seen
A bloody bicameral conference meeting between the Senate and the House of Representatives is expected over a reported special P100-billion appropriation in the proposed 2020 national budget which Senator Panfilo Lacson considered as pork barrel.
Manila Bulletin
Senate of the Philippines
Senate holds morning session to tackle 2020 budget
Senators started holding morning sessions on Tuesday to tackle the proposed P4.1 trillion national budget for 2020. The Senate regularly holds its session at 3:30 p.m. from Monday to Wednesday.
Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin
Gatchalian warns DOE, NEA budget could end up as ‘pork’
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Tuesday expressed concern that the budget for the Department of Energy’s (DOE) total electrification program could only end up as “pork.”
Manila Bulletin
Lacson wants P5-B greening fund realigned to ID system
Why not transfer the P5-billion allocation for the government’s National Greening Program (NGP) to the implementation of the national ID system? Sen. Panfilo Lacson raised this suggestion on Tuesday during the Senate deliberations on the proposed P4.1 trillion national budget for 2020.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Lacson seeks to realign P4-billion unitemized aid for LGUs
Sen. Panfilo Lacson sought on Tuesday the realignment of an unitemized P4-billion allocation for the financial assistance for local government units (LGUs).
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Angara seeks extension of validity of 2019 General Appropriations Act
Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara has filed a measure seeking to extend the validity of the 2019 General Appropriations Act (GAA) to 2020, considering the late passage of this year’s appropriations and the ban on infrastructure projects due to the midterm elections.
Manila Bulletin
Recto asks Palace for new measure to grant gov’t employees’ salary increases
Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto on Tuesday prodded the executive branch to submit its version of the proposal granting an increase in the salaries of government employees.
Manila Bulletin
Pimentel wants prohibition on promotion of retiring military officials relaxed
Senator Aqullino Pimentel III sought Tuesday a reduction in the prohibition on the promotion of key military officers from less than one year to less than nine months before their mandatory retirement at the age of 56.
Manila Bulletin
Poe wants a ‘mobility czar’ to address traffic congestion in major PH cities
A bill seeking the creation of an office for a “mobility czar” to handle all transport and traffic matters has been recommended for plenary approval by the Senate Committee on Public Services.
Manila Bulletin
Sen. Pia Cayetano welcomes President’s certification of sin tax bill as urgent
Senator Pia Cayetano on Tuesday welcomed President Rodrigo Duterte’s move to certify as urgent the Senate’s version of the measure raising the tax on alcohol and cigarettes, including e-cigarettes.
Manila Bulletin
House of Representatives
House refiles as bill measure extending 2019 budget validity
The joint resolution seeking to extend the validity of portions of the 2019 national budget until Dec. 31, 2020 has been refiled as a bill at the House of Representatives.
Philippine Daily Inquirer, GMA News
HoR withdraws approved joint resolution, passes replacement bill in lieu
Leaders of the House of Representatives have decided to withdraw a joint resolution extending the validity of the 2019 General Appropriations Act notwithstanding a unanimous vote for its adoption last week.
Manila Bulletin
House OKs resolution authorizing rice subsidy expenditures under 2019 GAA
The House of Representatives voted last night to authorize the government to spend the rice subsidy allocation under the 2019 General Appropriations Act (GAA) for the purchase of palay from rice farmers severely affected by the Rice Tarrification Law.
Manila Bulletin
House panel takes TRB to task for what could be ‘carmageddon’ in southern Metro Manila
The House Committee on Metro Manila Development asked on Monday the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) to explain the construction of a temporary steel ramp that would connect the Alabang viaduct to the Skyway, following concerns that it would fire up “carmageddon” in the south.
Manila Bulletin
House joint panel approves bill creating the Department of Water Resources
The House Committee on Government Reorganization and House Committee on Public Works and Highways jointly approved yesterday a substitute bill creating the Department of Water Sources (DWR) that would ensure reliable, safe, quality and affordable water supply, and prevent water crisis in the country.
Manila Bulletin, GMA News, Philippine News Agency
House OKs special trust fund for abandoned, neglected children
The House Committee on the Welfare of Children has passed a consolidated bill seeking the setting up of a special trust fund with an annual allocation of P50,000 to aid abandoned, neglected and voluntarily committed children who are under the care of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Manila Bulletin
BUDGET, FINANCE, and TAXATION
DBM declares Cebu City’s P2.5-B supplemental budget 2 operative
Despite strong opposition from seven councilors to disapprove the P2.5 billion supplemental budget 2, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) declared that it is “operative in its entirety.”
Cebu Daily News
Tax court grants P24-M refund to BPO firm
The Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) has ruled in favor of a tax refund to business process outsourcing (BPO) firm Wells Fargo Philippines Solutions Inc., amounting to PHP24.116 million for excess payment of creditable withholding taxes (CWT) for 2014.
Philippine News Agency
LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS (LGUs)
Vandalism or art? Spray-painted messages irk Manila bureau
What authorities have described as vandalism has been defended by a group of young artists as part of an ongoing “Graffiesta.” On Tuesday, city hall personnel painted over political messages that had been scrawled on the Lagusnilad underpass and a wall on UN Avenue.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Youth group justifies street graffiti in Manila
The youth group that claimed responsibility for writing street graffiti in various areas in Manila justified their action by insisting that pressing issues and problems are more urgent. In a statement on Tuesday, Panday Sining asked for the public’s patience but explained that the killings, attacks against critics, and continuous poverty should be discussed.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Bucor chief to continue with efforts despite death threats
Bureau of Corrections chief Director General Gerald Bantag disclosed that he has been receiving death threats following their continuous efforts to confiscate contrabands items and demolish illegal shanties inside the New Bilibid Prison (NBP).
Manila Bulletin
DEFENSE AND SECURITY
Armed Forces of the Philippines
Bato on deaths of PMA cadets: ‘Minalas lang’
The two Philippine Military Academy (PMA) students may have been struck with bad luck, thus leading them to their deaths, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa said Tuesday.
Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin
--------------------------------------
Preliminary contract for new PH Navy warships signed in South Korea
The Philippine Navy’s plan to acquire two brand new corvettes is a step closer to fulfillment with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Department of National Defense (DND) and the South Korea-based shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), said Navy Flag Officer-in-Command, Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad.
Rappler
Philippine National Police
ECONOMY AND INVESTMENTS
Lacson: PH lost about P161.5B tax revenue from big trading partners in 2017
The Philippines has lost at least P161.5 billion in tax revenue from imports from the country’s big trading partners due to leakages in 2017, Senator Panfilo Lacson revealed Tuesday.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
BUILD, BUILD, BUILD and PUBLIC WORKS
Palace slams Drilon's baseless claim vs. 'Build, Build, Build'
Malacañang on Tuesday quashed the claim of Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon that the Duterte administration's ambitious "Build, Build, Build" infrastructure program is a "dismal failure."
Philippine News Agency, Manila Bulletin
DPWH to carry out P1.2 trillion of revised flagship list
THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will implement P1.2 trillion of the revised list of flagship projects under the Duterte administration. Documents obtained by the BusinessMirror showed the amount will cover 45 projects now in various stages of development. The DPWH said some of the projects on the list will be completed during the term of President Duterte.
Business Mirror
OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
AUDIT, GRAFT, AND CORRUPTION
Sandigan grants gov’t bid to appeal junked forfeiture case vs Marcoses, cronies
The Sandiganbayan has allowed government lawyers to appeal the dismissal of a forfeiture case against the family of former President Ferdinand Marcos and their cronies.
Philippine Daily Inquirer, GMA News
Ex-La Union lawmaker acquitted of PDAF-related graft and malversation charges
Former La Union 2nd District Rep. Thomas De Lara Dumpit has been acquitted by the Sandiganbayan First Division of his priority development assistance fund (PDAF)-related graft and malversation charges after his demurrer to evidence was granted.
Manila Bulletin
FOREIGN RELATIONS
West Philippine Sea
LABOR
DOLE asked to strictly monitor compliance with labor standards during Yuletide season
With the adjustment in mall hours this Yuletide season, the Partido Manggagawa (PM) on Tuesday asked the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to strictly monitor compliance of mall owners with labor standards.
Manila Bulletin
DOLE-7 orders firm to pay over P1-million in overtime pay, other benefits to 10 security guards
The Department of Labor and Employment in Central Visayas (DOLE-7) has ordered a general merchandise company to pay over P1 million to 10 security guards. In an emailed press statement, DOLE-7 regional director Salome Siaton said the amount each security guard received ranged from P10,000 to as high as P190,000, with the total amount paid reaching P1,040,621.32.
Cebu Daily News
Palace concerned over abduction of 11 Filipinos in West Africa
Malacañang expressed concern over the abduction of 11 Filipinos in West Africa, two of them were kidnapped in Togo and nine in Benin last week. “We are concerned about the kidnapping and (Labor) Secretary Bello is handling it,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a Palace briefing on Tuesday.
Philippine News Agency
TRANSPORTATION
Expand public transportation, road networks to ease traffic —expert
A transportation expert said the country needs to look into expanding public transportation and road networks to alleviate the transportation crisis in Metro Manila, according to a report by Malou Manghas on Investigative Documentaries.
GMA News
‘Stay calm while in traffic, or risk having high blood pressure or heart attack,’ Duque warns public
The Department of Health (DOH) reminded the public to always stay calm while on the road as they are expected to brace for heavy traffic with the holiday season fast approaching.
Manila Bulletin
HEALTH
Garin joins growing House clamor for increase in DOH budget
Iloilo Rep. Janette Loreto-Garin joined on Tuesday her colleagues in pushing for additional funding for the Department of Health (DOH) to hire more psychologists and psychiatrists for drug treatment centers in the country.
Manila Bulletin
DOH to look into visual health as WHO reports growing number of people afflicted by eye problems
Health experts sounded the alarm on the growing number of people who are suffering from visual impairment. “The world report says that there are about 2.2 billion people in the world that have a vision impairment–that includes people that are blind but most of them are not blind but they have poor vision,” said World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Advisor Dr. Andreas Mueller during the launch of the World Report on Vision recently.
Manila Bulletin
FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
Better irrigation system can ease PH rice problem: Malacañang
Malacañang recognizes the Philippines’ long-standing problem of relying on rice imports to meet demand but assured the public that government is working to address it.
Philippine News Agency, ABS-CBN News
Experts to tackle PH Rice Tariffication Law policy implications
The Philippine government-hosted Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research and Agriculture (SEARCA) will hold a session on the regional implications of the Philippine Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) during the Inaugural Rice Research Symposium on Wednesday (Nov. 13) at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel.
Philippine News Agency
Baguio City’s pork consumption down by 10% amid ASF scare
Pork consumption in Baguio City dropped by at least 10 percent but the city veterinary office said supply remained steady and the inspection of meat and meat products has been intensified.
Philippine News Agency
Tanggol Asukal cites senators for rejecting plans to liberalize sugar importation
The newly formed agricultural group Tanggol Asukal Network on Tuesday cited the concerned senators for rejecting plans of the country’s economic managers to liberalize sugar importation.
Manila Bulletin
100% physical examination a must for agri products enter PH – BOC
All agricultural goods, including meat and pork imports, must undergo initial and 100-percent physical examinations before they are cleared for release, the Bureau of Customs said.
Manila Bulletin
EDUCATION
ENERGY
POVERTY
SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT
HOUSING
TOURISM
NegOcc advocates gender-responsive tourism policy
The Negros Occidental provincial government is advocating more gender-responsive policy and practices in its bid to develop a progressive tourism industry.
Philippine News Agency
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Recycling for Mega-Manila
Our rivers, lakes, seas, and oceans are part of what we call the “blue” economy. It is similar to what is often referred to as the “green” economy, only that it represents the economic development of marine and coastal ecosystems.
Business World Online
Water crisis
INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION AND TECHNOLOGY
DEVELOPMENT SECTOR
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